Musical treats at Carsphairn's 55th Burn Supper
On a chilly January evening in Carsphairn, visitors from near and far congregated together in the warm embrace of the beautifully decorated Lagwyne Hall to celebrate the life of our Scottish bard, Robert Burns.
Chairman, Robert McTurk welcomed everyone to their annual 55th Burns Supper and invited James Wallace (Senior) to begin the meal with the Selkirk Grace. A delicious three course meal was once again prepared and served by the staff from the local catering company, Caterbirds. Progressing on, Robert introduced Bruce McKenzie from the top table, who provided a compassionate and informative account of Robert Burn’s Immortal Memory. He also provided us with a musical ‘treat’ from a song played on his guitar.
As the night’s entertainment commenced, the room all stood to their feet to welcome the prepared haggis, with the sound of the young piper, Robbie Logan from Penpont who captivated the room with his rich sounds from the bagpipes. He was closely accompanied by Melissa Ade, who proudly carried the dressed haggis around the room and towards the top table of speakers. Upon arrival to the top table, James Wallace (Junior) held the audience’s attention with a theatrical and gripping ‘Address to the Haggis’.
The evening’s exemplary entertainment continued with Jim White, providing the audience with an uproarious, yet wholehearted toast to the lassies. In response, Christine Whipp, gave an equally humourous and witty reply to the laddies. Lagwyne Hall was rich with musical treats on that evening, as another local musician Ryan Fergusson, filled the building with harmonic tunes from his accordion. With homemade shortbread served alongside teas/coffee, guests sat comfortably full whilst listening to Robert McTurk’s recitation of A Cotter's Saturday Night.
As the evening drew to a close for another year, Hugh Clark Kennedy issued a heartfelt vote of thanks to all the speakers, guests, Caterbirds, and a special thanks to the dedicated committee of hall volunteers who organised an evening of memorable entertainment, excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere for guests to come together in celebration of our Scottish icon. Everyone joined hands for the final song of Auld Lang Syne before departing ways until next year.
Lagwyne Hall Committee