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Heather Till Photos - Jan. 24, 2020

The life of iconic Scottish poet Robert Burns was celebrated at Gibsons Legion Jan. 24 with a traditional Robbie Burns Night. Hosted by Gibsons Legion #109 and Mount Elphinstone Lodge 130 Masonic Society, the evening was steeped in tradition, dating to the first supper held in memoriam by Burns's friends in 1801. The Coast String Fiddlers began the night with lively music, before a traditional supper of roast beef, mashed potatoes (tatties), and mashed turnip (neeps). The meal also featured homemade haggis, which was presented with full ceremony. Preceded by bagpiper Craig Buchanan, with everyone standing, the haggis was carried to the front of the room on a tray. Host Alex Buchanan offered the Address to the Haggis, written by Burns ("… and then, O what a glorious sicht, warm-reekin, rich …") followed by a toast of scotch whisky. The Gibsons Pipe Band filled the room with music after the meal, and MC Norm Blair gave a brief history of Burns and his poetry. To bring the night to a proper close, guests sang Auld Lang Syne together.