The Saint Andrew’s Society of the Algarve held its Burns Supper at the Ponte Romana restaurant in Silves on Saturday, January 28. According to Society Chieftain Doug McAdam, “The Supper was a resounding success with almost a full house of about 120 participants. We were particularly delighted on this occasion to be able to welcome so many guests attending for the first time.”
As usual, bagpiper Malcolm MacGillivray got the evening off to a start by welcoming guests outside the restaurant. Guests enjoyed a glass or two of espumante arranged by Joaquim Tinoco of Catuna & Silva and donated by Duarte Leal da Costa of Adega Ervideira.
The restaurant has been used for this event for many years and is now well practised in preparing and serving the traditional haggis, tatties and neeps.
The haggis was addressed by Chieftain Doug McAdam after it had been piped in and a quaich offered to the piper and accompanying party with Grant’s whisky sponsored for the evening by their distributors Prime Drinks.
The main speech – the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns – was delivered by Sue McAdam. The mildly provocative toast to the lassies was made by Vice Chieftain Rod Frew and Mahala Baker gave the more than adequate riposte on behalf of the lassies.
The assembled company then partook of lively and enthusiastic Scottish dancing – which included an Eightsome Reel piped heartily by Malcolm MacGillivray – and the proceedings were brought to a close around midnight with ‘Auld Lang Syne’.
Anyone interested in knowing more about the Society and its activities – no need to be Scots – should ring Chieftain Doug McAdam on 935 577 362 or Kathy Prentice on 919 635 246. And if you would like to give Scottish dancing a try, why not speak to Mardie Cunningham, who runs the dancing at the Nobel International School in Porches on Monday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.30pm? Her number is 282 356029.
