Cumbernauld

The atmosphere created over many years at Burns Club meetings in the old home at The Roadside hall is now being experienced in the current home in the Lesser Town Hall, and last Friday’s meeting was a prime example.

Guest piper Bob Aird piped in the top table office bearers and speakers and did justice to the traditional ‘piper’s dram’. President Calum Cormick welcomed all members and guests, and Derek Anderson proposed grace before a tasty meal of soup and braised steak provided by Alex Graham and family, caterers. President Calum presided over the evening’s ongoings. David Boyle opened proceedings with a song, performed in his usual first class manner and Duncan Weir excelled with a recitation.

Honorary president George Anderson’s speech concerning ‘Robert Burns and The American War of Independence’ and past President John Graham’s speech ‘Whit aboot Burns’ were both well received and appreciated by all present as was the letter by Burns entitled ‘The Eunoch of Language’ presented by Craig McWilton. All three speakers did their mother club proud.

Another song from David Boyle ended the formal part of the evening and it was then time for ‘Sangs and Clatter’. Bob Aird played a pipe selection, recitations from Dick Duncan and Peter Capaldi and songs from Ian Duncan, Tom Myles, Bert Davidson and The Cullins provided a most enjoyable harmony along with David Stewart, organist.

Vice President Willie Barr proposed a well deserved vote of thanks. The proposed special raffle in aid of Erskine Homes will now take place at the next meeting, St Andrew’s Night on Friday, November 28 to ensure a maximum return for this good cause. The main prize will be a certificated limited edition bottle of malt whisky valued in excess of £245.

The traditional singing of ‘The Star’ and Auld Lang Syne brought to a close a most enjoyable and informative meeting. Roll on St Andrew’s Night.