Saturday 21st February 2009 was the second supper held by the Ukrainian Social Club of Edinburgh to celebrate the life and works of Burns and the national poet of Ukraine, Tamas Shevchenko.

Over 100 revellers gathered in the club premises at 14 Royal Terrace in Edinburgh's New Town to be welcomed by the club president. The top table included David Baird, Jim Haining, Peter and Lesley Kormylo and the acting Consul General of the Ukriane, based in Edinburgh.

Following the Selkirk Grace, the company was blessed by Father Lubomyr and the Ukrainian Haggis Dish was addressed by Peter Kormylo. An interesting meal included Borsch Soup, made from Beetroot, and Haggis, Neeps and Tatties.

After dinner, David Baird proposed a riveting "Immortal Memory" of Burns, followed by a recital on Taras Shevchenko by Alex Kurlyuk. The toast to the Lassies was delivered by Jim Haining in his inimitable style and was ably replied to by Lesley Kormylo. Later, a ladies choir sang beautifully in Ukranian followed by a mandolin solo. A rousing version of "Auld Lang Syne" was followed by the Ukranian National Anthem at which, the contingent from Dumfries were unable to join in.

A most memorable evening was spent with members of the Ukrainian community and friends in Edinburgh and the Lothians and hopefully, the Burns & Shevchenko Supper will become a regular feature.

I had the pleasure of accompaning David Baird and Gordon Johnston. David, who was driving, found the club a trifle difficult to find due to the roundabouts and road system and the Satnav was worse than useless.

D. Smith

22/02/09