The Saint Andrew’s Society of the Algarve duly held their Burns Supper at the Ponte Romana restaurant in Silves on Saturday, January 25. The Supper was a resounding success with over 140 participants.
As usual, bagpiper Malcolm MacGillivray got the evening off to a scintillating start by welcoming guests outside the restaurant. Guests enjoyed a glass or two of excellent bubbly arranged by Dr. João Póvoa of Kompassus and Joaquim Tinoco of Catuna & Silva.
The restaurant has been used for this event for many years and is now well practised in preparing and serving the traditional Macsween haggis, tatties and neeps (warm thanks to Iceland for their help in getting them!). I addressed the haggis after it had been piped in and a dram offered to the piper and accompanying “kilties”.
After the main speech – an excellent Immortal Memory by Ian Wilson – the light-hearted and teasing Toast to the Lassies was made by Gavin Scott and the more-than-adequate response on behalf of the lassies was made by Sue McAdam – this very well received by the ladies!
The assembled company then enjoyed lively and enthusiastic Scottish dancing – which included an Eightsome Reel piped heartily by Malcolm MacGillivray – and the proceedings were brought to a close just after midnight with ‘Auld Lang Syne’. The amber mead – or whisky – for the evening was kindly provided by Blevins Franks and was very much appreciated.
Our next event will be the Saint Andrew’s Ball on November 28 at the Hotel Penina.
Anyone interested in knowing more about the Society is welcome to ring me on 935 577 362 or Kathy Prentice on 919 635 246. Our Society is small and comprises many nationalities so no need to be Scots! 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.
By DOUG McADAM, Chieftain
