R. Burns has a lot to answer for. No sooner had the new president taken the Oath, when a party of four journeyed to Langholm to attend Langholm Ladies BC's  "Literary Lunch" on 3rd May at the Buccleuch Centre. This was a talk on "Burns songs" by Mrs. I. Connelly, a former lecturer at St. Andrew's Uni., with songs from three talented soloists. I learned a lot from this and enjoyed the buffet thereafter. On 9th May, I accompanied the president of the SSCBA, who is also JVP of the Burns Federation, to the Fed's National Schools Festival at Duns, Berwickshire. This was the Primary Schools event and was blown away by the tremendous talent displayed. The SSCBA team gained three prizes. This was a good day but the outgoing journey, by minibus which had seen better days was not recommended. The highlight was the return trip, stopping at Biggar for a pint in a pub, full of drunken footie supporters and a fish supper.  The day following was one to remember. The president, treasurer, PP D. Miller, Mrs. Jane Brown and the writer travelled in style to Coldstream for the annual ceremony marking the crossing of the Tweed into England by Burns in 1787. This was fabulous, with sunny weather, an impressive ceremony during which the club's floral tribute was placed by the president at the plaque in the middle of the bridge, and an afternoon of superb entertainment. The return journey was interesting. The treasurer who, as JVP of the Fed. was seated at the top table all afternoon had some difficulty in articulation but nobody was fu'. The club delegation was warmly welcomed and look forward to the event next year.

The pace continued on 11th May at the opening committee meeting and soiree (see president's blog). Momentous decisions were made and members were glad to relax afterwards for some harmony. The president's bottle of firewater was much enjoyed.

Watch this space.

D. Smith