There were 114 diners that entered the Palace Masonic Hall, St Annes on Sea for the annual Burns Night spectacular, superbly organised by Palace steward, John Nicholls and his wife Pamela. As the drone of the bagpipes heralded a migration from the bar to the dining room, everyone took their places at the beautifully laid out function room where 13 round tables in true Scottish style were awaiting.
Master of ceremonies, Chris Thompson, who served with the Black Watch Royal Highland Regiment and after transferring to the REME held the rank of Warrant Officer in that Corps, and immediate past master of Fairhaven Lodge No 5076, gave the Selkirk Grace and invited attendees to sit and enjoy the first course of Scotch broth. Immediately after the soup dishes had been taken away, the highland piper marched through the dining room ahead of the haggis that was being carefully borne by John Nicholls.
Chris Thompson then delivered a rousing and perfect rendition of Robert Burns famous ‘Address to a haggis’ that begins with ‘Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face’. Following the ritual of cutting up the haggis it was taken away to be prepared as the second course of haggis and tatties. A bottle of whisky was touring around the tables, serving a ‘wee dram’ to accompany the haggis. The third course was a traditional Aberdeen Angus roast beef dinner served with seasonal vegetables and roast potatoes, followed by a delightful white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake or cheese and biscuits.
Chris Thompson announced that raffle tickets were being sold and the proceeds of which would be going to local charity Homestart, the CEO being Adrian May who was present with his wife and friends. Chris announced that a cheque would be presented later in the evening to Homestart by Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews who was also present along with his wife Debble.
Following the raffle draw, with Debbie Matthews picking a winning ticket, a cheque for the superb amount of £1,220 was presented by the Mark to Adrian May. The cheque presentation was supported by John Nicholls, Chris Thompson, South Fylde Group Chairman Ben Gorry and South Fylde Group Charity Steward David Jenkinson. Adrian May addressed everyone and thanked them for such generosity which will help the charity in providing basic daily items for families and homes that are experiencing challenges in their lives. An additional raffle for a laptop computer raised approximately £500.
The Burns supper continued with music and dancing into the early hours. A fantastic night of fun, good food and good company in the South Fylde Group.
Report by John Topping.