Robbie Burns Supper – Lochaneil Society – January 24, 2020

On January 24, 2020, the Lochaneil Society of Kenora held its 36th Annual Burns Supper in commemoration of the 261st anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, the Ploughman Poet of Scotland. The event was held at the Old Kenora Armouries with a good crowd of Scots and would-be Scots in attendance.

The Kenora Scottish were well represented at the event with Pipe-Sergeant Cecil Burns piping in the haggis, piper Stephen Mitchell giving the Toast to the Immortal Memory and bass drummer Jay Whetter receiving the prize for the best recitation of a piece of Burns’ verse.

The assembled members were treated to a lovely repast which included generous portions of haggis, “neeps and tatties” as well as roast beef, chicken, vegetables, salad and dessert. There may have also been a dram or two of good single malt whisky to be had.

In addition to the recitations, jokes, poems and stories told by the attendees, the crowd was treated to 3 sets of bagpipe tunes performed by former Kenora Scottish Pipe-Major and current Pipe-Major of the Winnipeg St. Andrews Pipe Band, Wes Sheppard. The first 2 sets were medleys of various traditional and modern pipe tunes but the highlight of the performance was a most touching rendition of Amazing Grace to end the show. Wes received a well-deserved standing ovation.

The Lochaneil Society has a varied membership of individuals from the area and the region and has always been very supportive of the Kenora Scottish Pipes and Drums.

(Article submitted by Cecil Burns)