Tam o’Shanters** off to Elaine. I think this must be the first time that this celebration of Robert Burn’s birthday has been celebrated in church. It was a lovely evening where 50 or so of us were welcomed and everything was arranged perfectly, from the warm church, attractively set tables with tartan and Scots Fir cones, to the programme/menu illustrated with the Scots thistle. There was no doubt we were taking part in a traditional Scottish event.
To an ignorant Sassenach** it was a novel experience. A delicious meal was served following the Selkirk Grace (Burns). The steaming Haggis was brought in with great solemnity, accompanied by violin playing by Andy Cook, and it was then addressed by Owain reciting (Burns). All this was thanks to Elaine who made the salmon mousse on wee** oatcakes and perfect shortbread, and Philip Gibbs and his staff.
We were entertained by dramatic readings of two poems (Burns), songs (Burns) then we all joined some well known songs led by Elaine with Robert playing the piano. Finally a group from Leominster Scottish Dancing Club led us in some Scottish Dancing. It was lovely to see the colourful tartans and some genuine national costumes.
Of course we ended with singing of Auld Lang Syne apparently another poem of Mr. Robert Burns. I have just read that he died aged 37 having written many memorable poems, broken many hearts and enjoyed a fair amount of drink. Thank you Elaine. £279 has been added to the church funds as a result. Excellent.
TRANSLATION
**Tam O’Shanter … a Scottish woollen hat
**Sassenach … someone not Scottish
**wee … small