St Andrew’s Day talk hailed as a complete success

Dec 4 2009 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A SELECTION of Scotland’s top academics and writers gathered in the Fair City’s AK Bell Library recently to celebrate St Andrew’s Day.

Organised by Perth Burns Club, the Scottish Government’s culture minister, Mike Russell MSP, opened the afternoon in the venue’s Soutar Theatre – with guests piped in by tartan-clad musician Martin Bristow.

Mr Russell said: “St Andrew’s Day is the perfect time to reflect on Scotland’s contributions to the world – our culture, heritage, innovations and our people.

“The Scottish Government’s Year of Homecoming has been a true celebration, inspiring people at home and abroad to experience all that is great about Scotland.”

Also speaking during the course of the afternoon were Dr Harry Reid, a former editor of the Herald; Angus Whitson and Kenneth Steven – on everything from the Reformation, to the Scottish countryside and Perthshire poetry.

Prominent local author Jess Smith’s talk, entitled “Scotland’s Travelling People”, was described as “fascinating” by Perth Burns Club member Elliot Boyle.

The club’s president, Donald Macgregor, introduced compere George MacDiarmid before the start of an evening filled with traditional Scottish music.

Elliot Boyle said: “George was brilliant at stitching it all together, with a varied selection of jokes and good-humoured banter.

“Laurie Malloch sang very well and Joe Aitken was great, as usual, with a very powerful voice.

“John Napier and Friends provided high standard of traditional music – with the emphasis on enjoying the lighter side of Scottish life and music.

“Everyone involved with the club would like to thank all the staff who helped make this a tremendous success,” he said.