Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation hosts Burns Supper at James Milne Institute, Findhorn

Life-saving volunteers organised another annual event in a village hall in memory of Scotland’s most famous poet.

Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) celebrated the life and poetry of Rabbie Burns at their annual Burns supper in Findhorn’s James Milne Institute.

This year, there were a few departures from the traditional programme, however, the evening began with the usual welcome from MIRO chairman, John Low.

He said: “I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making this year’s MIRO Burns supper another resounding success.

“I would also give particular mention to the young people who contributed to our programme.”

Almost 100 guests filled the village hall that was decorated in tartan for the occasion - their tables were laid by Shona Darnley of Aye Do Events.

Young Forres piper, Bill Symon, was given a standing ovation as he piped in the haggis.

The address to the haggis was delivered by 12-year-old Issac Gibb from Laurencekirk, a regular visitor to Findhorn where his grandparents Campbell and Fiona Ross live.

The attendees then enjoyed a three course dinner served by Donnie Macleod Catering.

Following the traditional haggis, neeps and tatties main course, Findhorn resident John Porter delivered a poem ‘from a Haggis’s perspective’.

A light hearted ‘Immortal Memory’ was then delivered by Mr Low, followed by a rendition of verses from four of Burn’s famous poems recited by Findhorn’s Burn’s expert, Frank Allan.

This year, instead of the traditional ‘Toast to the Lassies’, Findhorn resident Dr Timothy Finnegan toasted the village.

Finally, Findhorn loon, now Forres resident, Donald Wright replied on behalf of the village.

The evening was rounded off with a raffle and a rousing rendition of ‘Auld Lang Syne’.

Mr Low said: “This is the third year that Bill Symon has piped in the haggis and we are very grateful to him for supporting MIRO.

“Also, standing up in front of a large audience can be very daunting but young Isaac coped admirably with the pressure and his address was enjoyed by all. ”

He finished: “I would like to thank everyone who generously donated raffle prizes, including Johnstons of Elgin, Findhorn Village Store, the Kimberley Inn, Maclean’s Highland Bakery, the Watershed Sauna and many individual MIRO supporters.

“We rely solely on donations to deliver our lifesaving service and the funds raised at the Burns supper are a significant contribution to our annual income.

“We are very fortunate that an anonymous supporter has offered to more than double match the funds we have raised this year.”

For more information visit www.morayinshorerescue.org