The Morning
Alan, Alan McQ, Allan, Davie C, Dougie, Graham, Gus, Hugh, Johnny, Paul, Rex, Robert
Johnny had prepared tea/coffee and burgers for us we assembled at his house, bringing our contributions for the evening meal. A very pleasant time was spent enjoying his hospitality and watching a slideshow of Ooters pictures on his big television. However, a walk was in order and the majority set off for Irvine beach for the walk to Barassie and back in bright conditions. Johnny and Allan stayed behind to set up the room for the Burns Supper which was to follow in the evening.
The Burns Supper
Hugh and Paul couldn’t make the event, but we were joined by Billy, Davie Mc, and Jimmy for our annual Burns Supper. Thanks go to the guys who contributed to an excellent meal, well-prepared by Johnny. Jimmy chaired the Supper and delivered the Immortal Memory, Alan McQ addressed the Haggis, Robert said the Selkirk Grace, Davie Mc toasted the L,asses (despite forgetting to bring his notes), Allan toasted the Ooters, Davie C gave us the Address to the Tinned Haggis, Alan recited the Bowlers poem, Dougie entertained us with erroneous quiz answers, Graham read one of John Cooper Clarke’s poems, Rex delivered a Banjo Paterson piece, and Johnny got through A Man’s A Man. Everybody had taken part and can be proud of what they did and, without Ronnie’s musical input due to illness, the Ooters managed to get along just fine, belting out the usual favourites.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to hear Gus’s much anticipated contribution as Billy took unwell during Allan’s speech (it really wasn’t that bad) and after assessing him for a wee while, it was though best that he should be checked out at A&E. Gus volunteered to take him and stayed with him well into the early hours before the medics decided that he had just fainted and was allowed home. We wish Billy a quick recovery and thank Gus for the care and attention he showed to Billy. Well done, Gus! At least he doesn’t now need to think about what to deliver next year.
Thanks again go to Johnny and Helen for their generous hospitality both in the morning and in the evening. Johnny, as is his custom, had produced personalised place mats for us and had printed song books. Helen and Johnny had prepared the table for us, Johnny had cooked the meal, and, at the end of the night, they were left with the clearing up. Thanks again, folks! Hopefully the Ooters will be invited back next year.
