Scotland correspondent issue 13

Celebrating New Year with old customs Lucky date for Chinese brides at a dream castle p1

Relics of a murderous legend Chill out and relax Scottish style

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inside this issue 8 Welcoming

the new with the old

Tradition plays its part in Hogmanay

22 Divine

Dundas

Love, luck and the perfect wedding venue

32 Doing

porridge

On the trail of the ultimate superfood p4

40 Waiting

whisky

for

New distillery and a dram to be going on with

46 Splash

luxury

of

Spoil yourself at one of Scotland’s top boutique hotels

54 Looking

for a hero or two

The town with a talented past inspiring the future

108 Cheers for

the beers

70 Castle

bagging

Keep up with the latest trend

84 Chilling out

on a budget

Scotland’s hostels open for business this winter

94 Murderous

legacy

The enduring tale of Burke and Hare

102 Stress

relief

It’s not just the Danes who know how to relax

62 Pipe

dream

The island pipe band aiming for New York p5

The craft ale boom making everyone one hoppy

120 The

Kirkin’ o’ the tartan

Church of Scotland reveals its true colours

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It’s a date

What’s on this month

Cover Photo Fireworks over Edinburgh Photo by Gyula Péter

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New Year and old customs

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Calton Hill fireworks

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S

cotland is a land of ritual and ceremony, much of it based upon centuries of folklore and superstition. Chief among those ancient observances is the celebration of Hogmanay and the welcoming of the New Year.

Up and down the country, as the clocks ticked down to the last seconds of 2017 many men, usually young, tall and dark, were forced to leave their warm homes or kept standing on the doorstep until the stroke of midnight.

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It is considered good luck if the first person across the threshold in the New Year is a tall, dark man carrying a gift of some sort. Often the gift can be as simple as piece of coal, a bit of cake and maybe a dram to wish the occupants of the home warmth, health and happiness for the year ahead.

Woe betide any home where the first guest is female or not tall and dark as this can be an ill-omen. It is also considered unlucky for anyone to leave the house in the New Year until somebody has come in.

The tradition is called First-footing and used to be a very common feature throughout the country as whole communities went from house to house to share a drink, a song and good humour with their neighbours.

The celebrations have been known to last two or three days.

Indeed, Hogmanay for many families in Scotland remains the biggest event of the year. Many forget that Christmas was not celebrated as a holiday until the 1950s and many people who were children back then can still remember getting their presents on New Year’s day instead of Christmas Day. Almost as soon as the clocks sound the last stroke of midnight people hold hands with anybody standing next to them and sing Auld Lang Syne, which contrary to belief among some millennials was not written by Mariah Carey but Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns. It’s a tradition that has been adopted world-wide as an anthem for friendship, nostalgia and memories of those loved and lost in previous years.

This year, while tens of thousands of people welcomed in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display in the shadow of Edinburgh castle at one of the world’s biggest street parties, other towns and villages across the country held their own special celebrations.

Among smaller communities ancient customs were once again to the

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Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland First footing

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Photo by Gyula PĂŠter Panoramio, Edinburgh,_UK

fore as folks adhered to the flaming traditions of Hogmanay, after all, fire plays a big part in welcoming the New Year in Scotland.

In past days homeowners would empty the ashes and clear the grate form their hearth to ensure good luck while others would parade with flaming torches to scare away evil spirits.

Photo by Mr Purple at English Wikipedia Stonehave Fireballs

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One of the most spectacular fire ceremonies is held every year in Stonehaven, near Aberdeen. For generations a procession of around 40 incredibly strong people have paraded the main street swinging large fireballs on the end of chains above their heads before throwing them into the sea. The exact origins of the tradition have been forgotten over the centuries but it is believed the swinging of the fireballs is an attempt to purify the town and rid it of bad influences.

After the celebrations of Hogmanay night the first day of the year usually brings its own peculiar practices.

Before families sit down together to feats on new Year’s day dinner many will have partaking in a little exercise.

In Kirkwall, Orkney there whole town turns out to watch or take part in the Ba’ game, which can last for hours, between people living up the town and those living down the town, otherwise knows as the Uppies and the Doonies.

The game is played with several dozens of people on each side. A ball is thrown into the middle of the crowd with each team trying gain possession of it. The Doonies’ have to get to the basin of the harbour and immerse the ball in the saltwater of Kirkwall Bay to win. The Uppies must touch the ball on the gable end of a house at the top of the town which marks the nearest spot to the site of the old town gates.

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland

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Elsewhere, hardy souls take part in a series of early morning dips in the cold waters of the sea or an icy loch. Although practised in several communities the most well known event is probably the Loony Dook at South Queensferry. Brave swimmers, many in fancy dress costumes ‘dook’ themselves in the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth to raise money for charity.

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Loony Dook

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A few days later, on the 11 January, it’s the turn of the good people of Burghhead to parade a burning barrel of wood staves and tar around the town before lighting a beacon on nearby Doorie Hill.

The Burning of the Clavie dates back centuries and its true origins forgotten in the mists of time years.

However, anyone who manages to get a smouldering piece of the Clavie it is likely to have good luck in the coming year.

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Photo by Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland “Burning the Clavie”

The ceremony used to be carried out at New Year but when the new Gregorian calendar replaced the old Julian one it knocked 11 days off the first year it was introduced.

While some communities rioted at the prospect of “losing 11 days�of their lives the residents of Burghhead decided it was a good opportunity to celebrate New Year twice - on 1 January and again on 11 January.

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Photo by Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland Clavie

Photo by VisitScotland Up Helly A

It’s a similar story on the island of Foula, one of the most remote communities in Scotland. They also stick to the old Julian calendar and celebrate Christmas and New Year almost two weeks after the rest of the country.

The 30-strong community on the

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island, which is only three and half miles long and half a mile wide, usually gathers to welcome in 2018 on Newerday on January 13.

January also sees the spectacular Up Helly Aa festival in Shetland where the locals celebrate their Viking heritage with a torchlit

procession through the town, in Viking costumes, before throwing flaming torches onto a replica long ship and turning it into a massive bonfire. Although not a Hogmanay celebration it is a spectacular sight to see.

As custom dictates a toast often

given to welcome in the New Year and in the name of tradition Scotland Correspondent wishes all our friends and readers a happy and healthy 2018.

wi a tear-drap in its ee.

May ye aye keep hail an hertie till ye’r auld eneuch tae dee.

May ye aye juist be sae happie as A wuss ye aye tae be.

May the best ye hae ivver seen be the warst ye’ll ivver see.

May the moose ne’er lea’ yer girnal

(which, for those without the Scots tongue, translates as)

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May the best you have ever seen be the worst you will ever see.

May the mouse never leave your grain store with a tear drop in its eye.

May you always stay hale and hearty until you are old enough to die.

May you still be as happy as I always wish you to be.

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Lucky for some as luxury castle embraces Chinese wedding market

Dundas Castle

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ne of Scotland’s leading luxury wedding venues is hoping that 2018 will be a lucky year, especially for Chinese guests looking to tie the knot on a very special date.

In keeping with the tradition that the number 18 brings good fortune Dundas Castle has launched its lucky 18 wedding packages aimed at the Chinese market.

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Photo by Rankine Photography The Drawing Room

With the modern part of the castle built in 1818 and celebrating its 200th birthday in this special year, it is the ideal location for Chinese couples to seek double happiness in style.

To bring even more luck in 2018, the five-star, exclusive use venue is offering couples who book their wedding for the 18th of each month throughout the year, a free piper to bring a real Scottish flavour to the experience.

Almost a quarter of marriages in Scotland now involve couples from abroad. Many are attracted by the country’s romantically breathtaking scenery, historic houses, liberal marriage laws and renowned reputation for hospitality.

Many couples dream of a wedding in a Scottish castle, and with its roaring log fires and 17 luxurious bedrooms, Dundas Castle lends itself perfectly to this ultimate romantic occasion.

With the added Scottish features such as kilts for the boys, traditional

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Spring bedroom

dancing and locally-sourced food, a wedding at Dundas Castle is a true Scottish experience for overseas guests.

Built in 1818 by the renowned Scottish architect, William Burn, the Castle is now the home of Sir Jack and Lady Lydia Stewart-Clark.

Dundas Castle is one of Scotland’s most beautiful and historic castles and is an officially recognised five star, exclusive use venue.

Secluded in the peaceful countryside of its own 400 acre estate, yet only a 25 minute drive from Edinburgh city centre and 10 minutes from Edinburgh Airport, Dundas Castle

Stag Chamber

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offers the perfect combination of accessibility and privacy.

Sir Jack Stewart-Clark, owner of Dundas Castle, said: “We are always thrilled to welcome wedding guests from overseas.

“We like to ensure that couples get an authentic Scottish celebration,

Dundas Castle

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and for couples taking advantage of the Chinese lucky number 18, our fantastic piper will be on hand for free.

“Dundas is my castle home and even more appropriately for the Year of the Dog, my friendly four-legged members of the family are always on hand for a warm welcome.”

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Winter bedroom

Dundas Castle offers a flexible choice for weddings, with a multitude of options for holding a religious, humanist or civil ceremony.

Couples looking for a traditional Scottish Castle wedding need look no further than the 15th century Auld Keep, while the elegant main house provides a spectacular home from home for a sophisticated yet comfortable feel.

Dundas Castle is perfectly situated just 15 minutes from Edinburgh airport and 25 minutes from the city centre. Nestled within 400 acres of secluded idyllic countryside, the Castle offers timeless charm and is the perfect place for a romantic wedding.

The lucky 18 offer is available throughout 2018 for couples who book their wedding for the 18th of the month.

China is an important emerging market for Scotland. The country’s national tourism agency recently

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Library

embarked upon a nine-day travel trade mission to China.

Chinese visitor numbers to the UK are expected to rise by almost half, from 260,000 to 384,000, over the next five years, VisitBritain predicts.

Scotland currently accounts for almost a fifth (17%) of all Chinese visitors to the UK.

The rise in visitors from China to Scotland and the UK is expected to be driven by the young adult traveller.

Research shows that the average age of Chinese visitors to the UK is younger than the average age of all inbound travellers. In 2016, half of Chinese visitors to the UK were aged between 25 and 44.

Keep

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Have you had your porridge yet?

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D

r Samuel Johnson may have been little disparaging of the Scots when he described oats as “‘a grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people,’ but it appears the laugh’s on him.

More than 260 years after the good doctor dismissed the essential ingredient of porridge as little more than animal feed it is now universally accepted as a genuine superfood.

Numerous scientific and medical studies over the years have shown oatmeal to be packed with essential vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants. A daily dose of porridge is not only tasty and warming on a cold morning but has also been shown to help lower blood

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cholesterol levels, aid with digestion and improve metabolism. Indeed, it has been credited with helping to prevent heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. It also aids stress relief and encourages healthy skin, hair and nails.

For centuries porridge has been a staple rather than a stable diet of many Scots and recipes for making the best porridge are almost as numerous as there are clans.

However the humble breakfast is no longer just something your granny used to make, it’s haute cuisine!

Now, across Scotland, hotels, restaurants and guest houses find themselves competing to produce the most tasty and appetising porridge or oatmeal dish suitable for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

From Selkirk in the Borders to Kirkwall in Orkney porridge is on the menu at some of Scotland’s top eateries specialising in turning cereal into a culinary art form. In

years gone by porridge made with water and a little salt was the extent to which most people aspired now you’re just as likely to find apricots and toasted pecans, strawberries and champagne or hazelnut butter, or even smoked haddock added to the mix.

Such is the popularity of porridge as a culinary experience the country’s national tourism organisation has even devised a series of six threeday tours taking in the best porridge making venues across the country coupled with various sites to see along the way.

The Porridge Grand Tour of Scotland provides inspiration for a number of breaks where visitors can enjoy sweet and savoury porridge dishes, possibly for all meals of the day, in a variety of Scotland’s restaurants, hotels and eateries The recommended routes bring to life porridge recipes from some of Scotland’s most talented chefs,

which includes a porridge dinner served with pigeon, one with Italian inspired cannelloni and even a whisky jelly option.

In between porridge meal times, porridge pilgrims can take in the dramatic landscapes of Ballintaggart Farm near Grandtully; Lerwick in Shetland and the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as have the opportunity to visit porridge-related places, shops and experiences The idea is to get taste buds tingling by transporting visitors on an adventure through history and heritage as well as the country’s famous landscapes and vibrant cities. It recommends some of the best places to stop off in Scotland to try a variety of porridge recipes – with the option of eating it over seven times in one trip!

There’s a porridge for everyone and any time of the day, with dishes including porridge benedict with seared Scottish pigeon breast, an Italian inspired cannelloni porridge and porridge with whisky jelly, oatmeal cream and raspberry.

There will also be porridge themed cultural learnings and activities to get involved with along the way, such as a visit to the Devil’s Porridge museum in Dumfries & Galloway – so called for the cordite that was produced in the munitions factories in the area during the Second World War. All the while, visitors can soak up Scotland’s famous landscapes, attractions and breathtaking scenery with six suggested itineraries to choose from which head out of the easily accessible Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Aberdeen.

The options for journeys in Scotland are plentiful, as visitors can also follow their tastebuds to Ayrshire and Arran, the Outer Hebrides and beyond.

Photo by Stewart Cunningham

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“Porridge is becoming more fashionable than ever, with many chefs and food fanatics getting creative with this staple

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An exotic offering at the World Porridge Championship

Scottish dish. Whether you like it the traditional way, topped with something sweet or prefer a more savoury offering, The Porridge Grand Tour of Scotland highlights just some of the best places across Scotland to enjoy this iconic dish in a new, fun and exciting way,” said Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink Such is the popularity of the dish these days that there is even a world porridge making championship held every year in the picturesque Highland village of Carrbridge which attracts entrants from around the world.

Former winner of the title Neal Robertson, of the Tannochbrae Tearooms in Auchtermuchty, Fife is not surprised by the rise in popularity of porridge in recent years.

“It’s amazing to see how much fun people are having with porridge across Scotland and around the world. The possibilities are endless

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Dr Samuel Johnson

with the humble oat and I can’t wait to show people how to make the perfect bowl of porridge on this Porridge Grand Tour. If I’m feeling generous I might even lend them my winning spurtle invention – the double backed ‘spon’ spoon to try out,” said Neal.

Perhaps the last word should go to Dr Samuel Johnson’s contemporary and biographer James Boswell, a Scot, who wrote in 1791: “Doctor Johnson proposed to define the word

‘oats’ thus: ‘A grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.’ And I replied: ‘Aye, and that’s why England has such fine horses, and Scotland such fine people.” Touchette! *A map and suggested itineraries for The Porridge Grand Tour of Scotland can be down loaded from VisitScotland here: https://static. visitscotland.com/pdf/the-porridgegrand-tour-of-scotland.pdf

Recipe for Safari or bush porridge by Ghillie Basan, www.ghilliebasan.com A bowl of steaming porridge has been woven into the fabric of Scotland’s rural life since medieval times forming the staple diet of the farm workers and crofters.

Historically porridge was made with barley, an ancient grain which made its way north from the Middle East and Africa where it was consumed with vegetables or meat in a thick broth (similar to Scotch Broth), and formed a staple food of much of northern Europe and Russia. As oats gradually replaced barley in Scotland, a basic ‘brose’ or ‘gruel’ was prepared with the oatmeal, often just by soaking it in water and drinking it from the bowl. The traditional bowl of porridge we all enjoy today is still just as simple, the only difference being that the rolled oats or oatmeal are simmered in water or milk and served hot.

My father was of a generation that grew up with the tradition of porridge stored in the kitchen drawer to cut into squares for the piece to take onto the hill for the day. When at

home in Scotland he could execute his traditionalist approach with great satisfaction but, when we lived in East Africa, he had to adapt to the bush-style preparation of porridge.

I would open the tent flap in the cool morning air, the steam still rising off the elephant droppings around our tent, to the sight of my father stirring the porridge over the campfire. The camp porridge was his domain and the combination of his fond tales of porridge in his youth and the kilted highlander on the box of Scots porridge oats led me to believe as a child that this was Scotland’s national dish. And in the African bush, this national dish would lure me out of the tent with the warm, sweet aroma of the oats simmering, a smell I still love to this day especially when porridge is prepared outdoors.

Lacking fresh milk, porridge in the bush was different every day – sometimes it was drizzled with melted golden syrup or honey (a child’s delight), other times it might be served with coconut milk or condensed milk and, if we were on safari with other families, there was usually a bottle of whisky or rum to hand, a selection of tropical fruits like

Photo by Fergus Thorn The Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship

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mangoes, bananas, and pineapples, and perhaps some toasted nuts and coconut chips. A simple bowl of porridge, with its requisite pinch of salt, could become an exotic breakfast feast!

“To make Safari or Bush Porridge, simply…

1. Prepare your porridge with rolled oats or oatmeal in the manner that you prefer; 2. Add cinnamon and nutmeg to taste if you like, and then top it with any of the following: mango, banana and pineapple chunks, caramelized in a pan with a little honey or brown sugar coconut chips tossed in a pan with a knob of butter and tiny sprinkle of salt until lightly browned 3. Whisky or rum heated with a spoonful of honey or muscovado sugar 4. Warm or chilled coconut milk or cream. Honey to drizzle; or brown sugar to sprinkle; or sugar flavoured with vanilla, cardamom or cinnamon “If you’re not driving, the whisky is essential – in my opinion!”

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A blend of history, love and heritage

Alasdair Day of R&B Distillers

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atience may be a virtue but when it comes to making whisky it can also be a torment of anticipation.

In an attempt alleviate the wait for 2020 to enjoy the island of Raasay’s first legal spirit Scotland’s newest distillery has created the aptly named single malt ‘Raasay While We Wait’.

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Designed to provide a preview of flavours the whisky connoisseur can look forward to the award-winning craft whisky maker R&B Distillers has launched a third iteration. It’s a mixture of whisky finished in Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc casks for eight weeks, with whisky finished in the wine casks for 18 months. This unusual spirit will have a full bodied fruity and lightly smoky flavour, the perfect accompaniment to a festive cheese board.

At £56.95 a bottle the limited edition is an excellent choice for Hogmanay or Burns Night. It even works really well in cocktails.

In addition to the Raasay offering R&B has also released two premium new whiskies: The Tweeddale: Evolution and The Tweeddale: Silent Character. These limited edition blended malts are the latest addition to the Tweeddale collection and have been inspired by the brand’s fascinating whisky heritage.

Co-founder of R&B Distillers, Alasdair Day, is the great-grandson of Richard Day, a master-blender in the Coldstream in the Scottish Borders during the 19th Century. Alasdair inherited his great-grandfather’s whisky ‘recipes’ which had been painstakingly recorded in a cellar book. Alasdair has been recreating the original Tweeddale Blends since 2009.

The Tweeddale A Silent Character’, which sells for £175 a bottle has been created using Alasdair’s Great Grandfather’s recipes. They discovered that Single Grain from Cambus Distillery was the whisky most consistently used in blending during the early 1900s and had been favoured by Richard Day.

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The name ‘A Silent Character’ alludes to the fact that the Cambus distillery is now silent, having ceased whisky production in 1993 and that is a key character in many of the historic Tweeddale bottlings.

This 27-year-old Single Grain Scotch Whisky is a vatting of two exbourbon casks: it is sweet and oaky, with honeyed notes on the nose, hints of pear, and a mineral structure on the palate. It is a limited edition bottling with fewer than 600 bottles available worldwide.

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The Tweeddale The Evolution, which is also retailing at around ÂŁ175, is 28 years old and the eldest Tweeddale to be released. It is fuller in character than previous impressions, with sherried and Speyside qualities.

This latest edition boasts a richer and fuller character, with dark chocolate and black cherry on the nose followed by wood spice and earthy notes on the palate. It would make for an ideal luxurious addition to any sophisticated drinks cabinet.

Having analysed the cellar book, R&B Distillers have carefully predicted the direction that they believe Richard Day was heading in with his blends had he continued to produce after WWII. The Evolution is their homage to this. R&B stands for Raasay and Borders, two uncommon terroirs brought together through one unique whisky company.

Co-founder Alasdair Day embodies this coupling. His great grandfather, Richard Day was a master-blender in the Borders, while his other great grandfather, Allan MacDonald, hailed from the Hebrides. It is this split history that prompted R&B to build a distillery on the remote Isle of Raasay in the Inner Hebrides and the plans for a subsequent distillery in the Borders region.

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Set course for a luxury break at Gleddoch Hotel

Gleddoch Hotel

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T

he former home of a 20th century shipping magnate has undergone a major refurbishment to become one of Scotland’s most popular luxury boutique hotels.

Gleddoch House sits in over 360 acres of beautiful countryside less than 15 minutes from Glasgow Airport and 20 minutes from the city centre.

Once the country estate of ship building baron Sir William Lithgow, Gleddoch now boasts 75 contemporary ensuite bedrooms and suites, a luxurious spa, a championship golf course,

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banqueting and wedding facilities, and a modern bar and restaurant. It aims to be the perfect rural retreat with a convenient location close to Loch Lomond that makes it a wonderful alternative to a Glasgow city hotel.

The refurbishment has been aimed at ensuring Gleddoch lives up to its growing reputation as a perfect getaway for families, couples, or

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those looking for an indulgent country retreat.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a countryside break for two, a special occasion party night or just a fun day out there are plenty of options for everyone.

Situated among 360 acres of picturesque Scottish countryside, the beauty of the landscape is almost a stress reliever in its own right. Spectacular views across the River Clyde, with Ben Lomond in the distance and the rolling hills of Renfrewshire also makes it the perfect backdrop to a romantic rendezvous or wedding album.

Gleddoch strives to be much more than a luxury boutique hotel.

Guests are encouraged to spend time relaxing in the Imperia Spa or to take a stroll around the 18-hole championship golf course, with or without a set of clubs.

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The course, which opened in 1974, is one of the best in the Glasgow area, having played host to The Carlsberg Open on the Ladies European Tour and top names such as European tour star Brian Barnes and the late, great Severiano Ballesteros. It consists of a challenging mix of both park and heathland, with stunning views across the countryside to the Clyde Estuary. The 6450-yard course of gently undulating fairways, large greens has a variety of challenging holes to test even the most proficient golfer.

Inside the house recent renovations at the hotel have brought style and comfort including two luxury suites with incredible views overlooking the River Clyde; beautifully-designed, well-equipped and modern junior suites; executive family and classic double bedrooms.

Central to the new offering is

the Imperia Spa which provides luxury treatments using Elemis and Scottish brand ishga. The spa’s facilities include a 17m, heated indoor swimming pool, eight tranquil treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a fully equipped gym, and a relaxation room.

Each hotel guest is treated to complimentary use of the full range of leisure facilities, as well as being free to use the on-site spa. As a provider of some of the best spa deals in the Glasgow area Gleddoch is perfect for unwinding and forgetting all about life’s little stresses and strains.

In addition to a range of relaxing activities the hotel prides itself on being an oasis of peace and tranquillity just a short distance from Glasgow city centre, which is renowned as one of the best shopping centres outside of London.

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Past inspiration for future generations Photo by Clydecoast Helensburgh from across the Clyde

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T

he quiet and gentile seaside setting of Helensburgh hides a hotbed of genius, endeavour and success through the ages which has made it a serious contender for the title of most talented town in Britain.

It may be a far cry from the glittering sidewalks of Broadway, Hollywood or London’s celebrated West End yet this 20,000-strong community of less than 10,000 homes has played a major supporting role in the lives of numerous actors, comedians, filmmakers, writers and musicians.

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Charles Rennie Mackintosh

John Logie Baird and early tv receiver

From its rather humble location on the northern shore of the Firth of Clyde it has also helped shape the lives and reputations of many visionaries.

He said: “For a population of less than 20,000, we seem to have produced or inspired more than our fair share of talented and historical people.

Television inventor John Logie Baird was born in the town, steamship pioneer Henry Bell lived here and renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh created the worldfamous Hill House.

“Not everyone on our list of heroes may have been born in the town but they have all, at some time or another been associated with Helensburgh and it has played part in shaping their lives.

Helensburgh can also boast links to a large number of Olympians, welfare reformers and war heroes, including holders of the Victoria Cross, Legion d’Honour and the Medal of Honor the highest awards for bravery from Britain, France and the USA.

“We should celebrate the success of everyone of these people, be proud of their links to Helensburgh and use them as examples to inspire future generations.”

According to Phil Worms, a Londoner who has adopted Helensburgh as his home and is behind the project to create a dedicated centre honouring the town’s heroes, no other community of similar size in the UK can boast as many talented connections.

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To that end Helensburgh Heroes, a registered charity, was founded in 2008 by a small group of people passionate about improving the community and inspiring future generations by celebrating the achievements of former local residents on the national and international stage.

Last month, after years of fund

raising and campaigning, the charity opened a dedicated centre in the town’s main street consisting of a merchandise area, retailing items associated with Helensburgh & Lomond area, an exhibition of John Logie Baird and other notable Helensburgh residents. It also sports a 1950s themed cafe called ‘Hucksters’, named after Helensburgh-born actress Deborah Kerr’s breakthrough Hollywood movie, made in 1947 and starring Clark Gable.

The centre was officially opened

by Laura Conley, grand daughter of Jean Baird who was John Logie Baird’s sister.

The Trustees hope the centre will generate support for a larger and more ambitious second phase of Helensburgh Heroes, involving a learning and training facility, a multiuse public space and support for local business start-ups.

“The centre will show we have a really good idea for Helensburgh, and

Photo by Columbia Pictures Corporation Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the classic movie ‘From Here to Eternity’

John Logie Baird and Stooky Bill

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we want to show the community the potential of that idea,� said Professor Michael Baker, Chairman of the charity.

So far more than 117 names have been included on the Helensburgh Hall of Fame but every year more more home grown success stories emerge and other famous names with historic links to the town are identified.

Photo by Remi Mathis Hill House, Helensburgh

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While some of the links may at first glance appear tenuous, such as Andrew Bonar Law the Canadianborn Tory who succeeded David Lloyd George as Prime Minister of Britain and held office for just seven months. He was married in Helensburgh.

Other names are more deep rooted in the fabric of the 211-year-old community with the likes of WH Auden and former Poet Laureate

Cecil Day-Lewis having spent time as teachers at Larchfield School, now part of Lomond School.

Even Charles Rennie Mackintosh, who may not have been born or lived in Helensburgh, owes part of his world-wide reputation to Helensburgh as it was here that he designed Hill House which has been hailed as one of the best examples of his work.

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Andrew Bonar Law

Phil Worms added: “All of the names on the Helenbsurgh Heroes list were either born in the town or lived here for a period of time so their lives became entwined in the fabric of the community”.

Many of the names on the roll of honour may not be exactly household names but they have all played a part in inspiring, entertaining or improving the lives of others.

Veterinary parasitologist George Urquhart and mathematician Horatio Carslaw were both giants in their field while suffragist Eunice Guthrie Murray was the first woman to stand in a parliamentary election in Scotland and Emma Sanderson was the first British woman and youngest person to finish the Around Alone, a solo round-the-world yacht race.

“Helensburgh should be proud of the heritage and the culture the town has and not be too shy to shout about it so that new generations can take inspiration,” added Phil Worms.

“If people know anything about Helensburgh then it might be that John Logie Baird, who invented the TV, was born here but what do they know about Jack Buchannan, Deborah Kerr or Helen McInnes, the Queen of the spy writers?

“We have a phenomenal number of talented people and connecntions.

Most towns might be able to find two or three but nowhere near the number we can claim. Helensburgh really has got talent!”

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Photo by Alasdair W Henry Bell Monument, Helensburgh

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From here...

Photo by VisitScotland Benbecula

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to here

New York beckons for Western Isles pipe band

Photo by Nicolas Halftermeyer New York

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Benbecula school pipe band is hoping to be the first-ever from the Outer Hebrides to spread the Spirit of Scotland at the New York Tartan Parade this year.

Year of Young People, the band’s ScotSpirit has been hailed as a shining example the kind of determination and spark which could help inspire even more visitors to come to Scotland.

Sgoil Lionacleit (Lionacleit High School) Pipe Band – the only school pipe band in the Western Isles – has launched a £40,000 crowdfunding campaign to make their dreamtrip a reality, and has received the backing of multi-award winning Gaelic singer/songwriter Julie Fowlis, who originally hails from the Outer Hebrides.

The band, made up of school children aged 12-17 years, hope to join the thousands of participants in the New York City Tartan Parade as they march down 6th Avenue on 7 April.

As the country begins 2018, the

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The parade is the highlight of Tartan Week – celebrating its 20th anniversary next year – which recognises the links that Scotland has with the USA and the

MHPB New York

contribution Scottish-Americans have made.

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band aim to share and celebrate their music, dance, Gaelic language and culture during the parade, in addition to performing for specific Gaelic audiences and groups within New York, whilst wearing their own unique tartan. A recent full council meeting of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar endorsed the pipe band as “cultural ambassadors for the Western Isles”.

The USA is a key international visitor market for Scotland with 451,000 visits from the States last year, bringing in £510 million to the national economy.

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band are the current Freestyle Champions of the Scottish Schools Pipe Band Championships and have been placed in the top six in their class at the World Pipe Band Championships for two years running.

“To travel to New York would provide

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a wonderful opportunity for the Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band to celebrate and promote the music, dance and Gaelic culture of the Outer Hebrides,” said John Daniel Peteranna, Chairman, Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band.

“These young people will do so with pride. They really enjoy their music and would love to share it with this international audience. It is in their blood, it is close to their hearts, it is who they are.

“They gain so many skills from their pipe band experience - discipline, leadership and team work – and there is also the feel good factor of playing music together and being one of the best Scottish School pipe bands.

“Some of them have never travelled abroad before so imagine how excited they will all be to travel to New York, the Big Apple, to play and share their Hebridean music and culture on this American and international stage. With your help we can make their dream - a life

changing reality.”

The Outer Hebrides boasts an irresistible mix of breath-taking scenery, mesmerising history and vibrant culture, of which music and dance play an integral part.

The crowdfunding campaign can be found here: http://www.crowdfunder. co.uk/sgoil-lionacleit-pipe-band-goto-tartan-week-ny/ Since launching the campaign Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council) have endorsed the SLPB as Youth Cultural Ambassadors for the Western Isles and have offered financial support to the trip.

So far the band has received about £20,000 in direct donations and estimate they are now about 75 per cent of the way towards their £40,000 target.

The band is still seeking a main banner sponsor who might be interested in having their logo being

carried to New York and down 6th Avenue on the band’s banners, press releases, t-shirts and photos.

There are also plans to have a Star Studded Concert towards the end of January with three famous traditional music artists being lined up to take part.

Isles Pipe Band

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“This is a wonderful opportunity for hard-working, talented young musicians to showcase the best

of the Hebrides, and the best of Scotland, at Tartan Week in NYC. I know that this trip will be of huge benefit to the youngsters in this island pipe band. Please support them! Gur math a thèid leotha,” said Julie Fowlis, award-winning Gaelic singer/songwriter.

The band is also looking for a main banner sponsor and those interested can contact 07748 436575 or email johndanielpeteranna@gmail.com

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Photo by Guy Phillips

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Visitors urged to capture a castle or two

Photo by Stuart Yeates from Oxford, UK Balmoral Castle

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or years visitors for Scotland have been encouraged to visit as many whisky distilleries, play as many golf courses and climb as many mountains as they can. Now they are being urged to go

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one step further and take up castlebagging.

In the wake of new research that revealed almost half (49 per cent) of Britons have never visited a Scottish

Castle the country’s national tourism organisations is pushing for them to realise just what they have been missing.

Castle-bagging, as with Munrobagging which involves climbing every one of 282 Scottish mountains over 3,000ft/914m high, requires quite a lot of dedication and energy -

Photo by VisitScotland Crathes Castle

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not least because Scotland has well over 3,000 of them in various states of repair.

It’s estimated that of all the known standing castles, ruins and documented sites about 1050 are merely locations where a house has been built on the spot of a previous castle and about 825 are standing

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Photo by Kim Traynor Aberdour Castle

Photo by Steve Partridge Castle Sween

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Photo by Paul Hermans Carbisdale Castle

Photo by Craig Burgess Slains Castle in fog

ruins. At the last count, around 660 were in use as a private house, hotel or wedding venue while around 469 are open to the public, though some only for a couple of weeks each year.

Aberdour Castle in Fife and Castle

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Sween in Argyll are thought to be two of the oldest datable standing castles in Scotland, dating from around 1200 and the youngest castle in Scotland is thought to be Carbisdale Castle which was built in 1907.

In keeping with the spirit of helping visitors to explore the country’s history, heritage and archaeology to the full VisitScotland has revealed the top of the pops when it comes to identifying country’s most recognisable castles.

Photo by Kenny Lam/VisitScotland Edinburgh Castle

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Not surprisingly Edinburgh Castle came out as the most famous as research showed that more than 80 per cent of British people are aware of it. Second on the list is the Queen’s holiday home, of Balmoral Castle which is familiar to 53 per cent of Brits.

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Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland was voted the most romantic-looking castle with over a quarter (29 per cent) of the votes, followed by Crathes Castle in Aberdeenshire (16 per cent) and popular visitor favourite Eilean Donan Castle in the Highlands (12 per cent). Â

Photo by VisitScotland Dunrobin

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Photo by VisitScotland Slains Castle Photo by Michael Frey Brodick Castle

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Photo by Finlay McWalter Stirling Castle

On the opposite side of the scale, Slains Castle near Peterhead was voted as the most likely to be haunted with almost a quarter of votes (22 per cent), followed closely by the iconic Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven (19 per cent) and in third place, Brodick Castle (12 per cent) on Arran.

The best castle in Scotland accolade went to Edinburgh Castle with over a third of the votes (39 per cent) ahead of Stirling (5 per cent), Urquhart (2 per cent) and St Andrews castles (2 per cent).

Seven out of ten people (72 per cent) stated they would like to stay overnight in a castle while on holiday in Scotland which is good news for the castles that have been converted into hotels and holiday homes throughout the country.

“Castles are an iconic and integral part of Scotland’s history and culture.

From the grandiose castles of Stirling and Edinburgh to the remote charms

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St Andrews Castle

of Eilean Donan and Castle Stalker– there is something unique and special about every single one and each has their own significant story to tell,” said Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland.

“Scotland’s history and culture is one the top reasons for visiting Scotland.

From World Heritage Sites to ancient monuments, cultural traditions to our myths, stories and legends – the

2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology has shone a spotlight some of our greatest assets and icons as well as our hidden gems.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to experience a Scottish castle in their lifetime, so we would encourage everyone to make it their mission - to bag a Scottish castle alongside a Munro on their visit here!”

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A winter warmer to blow away the blues p84

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s the gold and red colours of autumn give way to frostcovered glens and snowcapped peaks and the chill in the air makes your cheeks glow and nose tingle it’s time to wrap up and enjoy winter in Scotland.

Loch Ossian

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Crisp, fresh air and blue skies make for relaxing gentle walks surrounded by magnificent scenery made even more dramatic by the season while shimmering lights of Scotland’s cities beckon revellers to enjoy a cosy winter break.

Winter in Scotland can be truly magical with much fun to be had.

The country’s varied terrain and a network of wide-open hills and glens that are straightforward to reach make it easy to see why it remains a popular destination throughout the year.

As Sir Billy Connolly once said: ““In Scotland, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.” So long as you are well prepared, low and high level hill walkers, ski-tourists, winter climbers, snow enthusiasts and wildlife

Loch Ossian

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seekers can all make the most of the hills and mountains in the winter months.

It’s a season that lets you see the stunning countryside and dramatic cityscapes in a different light and offers new experiences that you just can’t enjoy at any other time of year.

From adrenaline-fuelled snowsports to city centre winter festivals there are activities and things to see and do for all ages and interests.

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Oban Youth Hostel

Even planning where to stay provides some exciting and unusual options that most people have probably never thought of before, such as the Scottish Youth Hostel Association’s vast network of accommodation venues.

The SYHA’s accessible Youth Hostels, in both remote and city centre locations, offer fantastic value for money and flexible accommodation to suit all those keen to get out and experience the real Scotland.

Gone are the days of shared bunk rooms and basic facilities the modern SYHA hostel is not only comfortable but also cared for by a welcoming and friendly staff keen to give the curious traveller a fantastic local experience.

SYHA Hostelling Scotland is a selffunding charity operating a network of around 60 exceptional youth and affiliate hostels around the country with many of them open for business

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Loch Ossian Youth Hostel

Aviemore

in the winter months.

These fantastic venues offer a range of shared and private ensuite rooms, value for money accommodation at key city centre and country locations, and a great starting point for anyone with an adventurous spirit to explore all Scotland has to offer at this magical time of year.

An added bonus of staying at one of the SYHA’s great venues is that many of them welcome dogs, provided you book a private room.

Aviemore Youth Hostel, situated a short walk from Aviemore town centre, is an ideal location from which to explore the beautiful Cairngorms National Park and indulge in a little snowsports, hillwalking and climbing. The path in to the Craigellachie National Nature Reserve goes right past the door and the hostel is located just nine miles from the Cairngorm mountain funicular railway and snowsports area,

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Alternatively try the Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel, an old Scottish shooting lodge offering stunning views of the Northern Corries. It is just two miles from the Cairngorm mountain funicular and snowsports area and is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, families and groups looking for budget accommodation.

For something different visit the

Reindeer Centre, where you can learn about and feed these friendly free-roaming animals.

If you prefer to walk in the footsteps of Royalty the  Braemar Youth Hostel makes for an ideal base for exploring Royal Deeside, the mighty Cairngorms and for skiing and boarding at Glenshee and The Lecht.

Torridon

Further south, towards the central belt, Crianlarich Youth Hostel s a modern bungalow style building nestled below a forest in the Strathfillan Glen providing a great base for exploring the northern end of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Explore a magnificent landscape dominated by 20 Munros, mountains over 3,oooft, which dominate the area with particular favourites being Ben More (1174m) and Ben Lui (1130m). The village of Crianlarich is also the halfway point on the West Highland Way. Throughout the world there can be fewer places more atmospheric than Glencoe and the Glencoe Youth Hostel is perfect for attempting a historic walk up the Lost Valley or tackling Britain’s finest ridge walk, the Aonach Eagach (which ends at the youth hostel). It provides a cosy base for snowsports enthusiasts at the Glencoe Mountain ski area and is only a 10min walk or stumble from the famous Clachaig Inn. For many outdoor enthusiasts Fort

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Torridon

William, the self-styled Outdoor Capital of the UK, is a must visit destination and also home to the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel. A popular base for hill walkers, climbers and backpackers at the foot of Britain’s Highest Mountain since 1933, the hostel has a proven track record of providing quality budget accommodation for individuals, families and groups from around the world wishing to visit the Lochaber area. The Nevis Range Mountain Centre offers skiing nearby.

Anyone seeking a more remote or tranquil break couldn’t do much better than to stay at Loch Ossian Youth Hostel. This small, homely eco youth hostel, situated on the banks of Loch Ossian, in the remote Scottish Highlands is an excellent base for hillwalkers.

Surrounded by Munros. Loch Ossian is only accessible by rail, bike, or foot, with Corrour railway station (West Highlands Glasgow to Fort William line) a short (approximately 20 minute walk) away.

In the winter, it is truly a magical experience to escape to this remote location to enjoy fantastic walks and undisturbed wildlife.

Similarly Torrid Youth Hostel lies in a magnificent corner of the North Western Highlands where walkers are spoilt for choice with numerous hills, coastal trails, historic passes and hidden glens to explore.

For the best advice ask the youth hostel staff who will be happy to share their local knowledge with you.

For those interested in activity holidays, SYHA’s Winter Walking Skills courses are based at Torridon Youth Hostel. The two-day courses, one in late January and the other in February, are run by a qualified mountain leader.

Even in winter Scotland’s coastal communities have much to offer, especially places like Oban where you can enjoy crisp walks along the coast or hike up to McCaig’s Tower, a folly and prominent local landmark on top of Battery Hill, affording great

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Oban

views over the town and harbour before warming up with a visit to Oban Distillery or Chocolate Shop.

Oban Youth Hostel is well placed to offer a perfect base for a relaxing or activity fuelled-break North of Oban is Connell, Benderloch and Port Appin for good walking with dramatic mountain views and seascapes. For the adventurous, winter is the best time to scuba dive

at nearby Loch Etive.

If islands are your think then Portree Youth Hostel on the Isle of Skye is perfect for a visit to one of the most famous destinations in Scotland.

The bus station, town square, galleries, shops and restaurants are only a couple of minutes’ away and it’s also perfectly located for outdoor enthusiasts wishing to tackle the famous Cuillin or Skye Munros.

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Murder and the making of a legend

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xactly 189 years ago this month the reign of terror inflicted by notorious bodysnatchers Burke and Hare came to a sudden end, for one of the pair at least.

Burke murdering Margery Campbell, the last of the Burke and Hare murders

On 28 January 1829 William Burke, one half of the deadly duo, was publicly hanged and his body dissected for both scientific purposes and a sense of justice.

Since then their names, and the series of grisly murders committed by them in the West Port district of Edinburgh, have become part of the city’s popular culture and continue to haunt the collective memory and imagination of millions of people around the world.

Edinburgh in the early 1800s was the centre of The Enlightenment and a hotbed of scientific exploration and endeavour amid a ravenous appetite for knowledge.

At a time when important research into anatomy was being hindered by a supply of fresh corpses for experimentation grave robbing by

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The Resurrectionists, as they were dubbed, was a lucrative trade. Only people executed for murder were made available for dissection and due to a voracious demand from medical students there weren’t enough bodies to go around.

Digging up graves to steal fresh corpses was hard work, made all the more difficult but increasingly elaborate security measures introduced by cemetery owners and families of the dearly departed. But,

it was in an attempt to feed demand that William Burke and his partner in crime William Hare went into business.

But, despite their murderous reputation, the road to infamy was less calculated than would appear at first glance.

In 1827 an old man called Donald was a tenant in Hare’s lodging house when he died suddenly from natural causes owing the Irishman about four

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Photo by Wellcome Images Burking Poor Old Mrs Constitution

pounds in rent. With no belongings to sell and no family to settle the debt Hare came up with a solution. He enlisted the help of his friend Burke to carry the dead man to Surgeon’s Square where they sold the fresh corpse to Dr Robert Knox for seven pounds and ten shillings with no questions asked.

Although police eventually found the body in the possession of the good doctor they could not quite make a strong enough case against the two men. Eager to secure at least one conviction Hare was offered a pardon to turn King’s evidence against Burke which he jumped at.

Having made an unexpected profit the two men quickly realised there was money to be made from the medical profession. Nobody knows for certain how many people they killed, estimates range from 17 to more than 30, but their murderous spree only ended by accident on Halloween night in 1828.

The body of their last victim was discovered hidden under a bed by James and Ann Grey, two other tenants of Hare’s lodging house.

They immediately contacted the police but by the time the authorities arrived the two men had moved the body and sold it to Dr Knox.

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William Hare

Dr Rober Knox

Just two months after the last murder Burke was hanged for the crimes.

After being executed he was not only dissected but also flayed. There are at least one book, one business card case and a snuff box bound in pieces

Photo by Wellcome Images Specimen jar containing piece of William Burke’s brain

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Photo by Wellcome Images Execution of the William Burke

of his skin.

Part of Burke’s brain was preserved in a jar and his skeleton is still kept under lock and key at Edinburgh University, where there is also a letter in the archives written in his blood.

The letter reads: “This is written in the blood of William Burke, who was hanged at Edinburgh on 28 Jan. 1829 for the murder of Mrs Campbell or Docherty. The blood was taken from his head on the 1 Feb. 1829.”

A few years back the life and death masks of the notorious murderers were found lurking in an old store room at Inveraray Jail in Argyll, alongside a hangman’s noose, sparking a mystery as to how they got there. Neither of the killers ever set foot in the prison.

“We found the masks during a clean out of one of our store rooms. It was quite a surprise. Initially we thought it was just Burke but it turns out we’ve got two heads. A death mask

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of Burke and a life mask of Hare,” said Gavin Dick, General Manager of Inveraray Jail.

“Unfortunately very little is known about either head, or for that matter the hangman’s noose, and how they came to be here.”

But, as the activities of the former navvies, who had originally moved to Edinburgh to work on the Union Canal, caused a sensation around the world it also led to a debate on whether criminals were born or made.

At the time, a new ‘science’ called phrenology was a popular as it was believed the shape and contours of a person’s head could dictate their personality and ‘experts’ held talks across the country using casts of the heads of infamous criminals to illustrate their point.

A life mask is known to have been made of Hare during the trial and Burke’s shaven head was cast after

his public execution in front of 25,000 people.

Although a handful of masks are known to still exist, with at least one in the USA, one in a museum in Swansea and copies at the universities of St Andrews and Edinburgh, they are very rare.

“How or why they should end up in Inveraray Jail is a something of a mystery,” said Owen Dudley Edwards, an expert on Burke and Hare and author of several works about the murderous pair.

“There are no links at all between Inveraray with Burke and Hare so it seems a very unlikely place to find these masks. There have been cases in the past where copies have shown up in strange places, usually because they were once owned by private collectors, but there certainly weren’t many of them made.”

Although there was much public anger at the fact that Hare was

Photo by Stewart Cunningham Inverary Jail manager Gavin Dick and the Burke and Hare masks Burkes House from the Backcourt

The Hares during the trial

allowed to go free all attempts to bring further charges against him failed and he escaped the mob to England.

He is said to have died a blind beggar in London or even emigrated to the United States.

Dr Robert Knox also escaped

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punishment. He was never prosecuted for his part, or even asked to give evidence at Burke’s trial, although his notoriety ensured he left Edinburgh for London. He died in 1862 aged 71 and is buried in Brookwood cemetery, Surrey.

One positive reaction to the West Port murders was the introduction

of the Anatomy Act of 1832 which helped increase the legal supply of cadavers for medical dissection and put an end to the business of grave robbing once and for all.

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Còsagach is the new Hygge Photo by Gerry McCann Skye

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roponents of the Danish concept of Hygge, a feeling of coziness and wellbeing, maybe shouldn’t get too complacent as there’s a new trend on the horizon for 2018.

Recent years has seen an explosion in interest surrounding the Scandinavian culture of embracing Hygge, pronounced hue-guh, which roughly translates as ‘taking pleasure in simple things, enjoying the moment and embracing a feeling of contentment well-being.”

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Photo by Paul Tomkins/VisitScotland Arisaig beach

Countless books have been written about how to relax and appreciate time with a loved one or enjoy tranquil surroundings which provide a soothing sanctuary from everyday stresses and strains.

Photo by Paul Kelbie Crovie

Winter especially has been identified as the season of hygge with roaring log firers, flickering candles and the scent of mulled wine or hot chocolate painting a picture of comfort and joy.

But now there is a new trend emerging - Còsagach, an old Scottish word which describes the feeling of being snug, sheltered or cosy – which could rival the Danish concept of Hygge.

Scotland is world renowned for its hospitality, most recently being voted Most Welcoming Country by Rough Guides readers, and now the national tourism organisation is encouraging businesses to create environments which “induce a feeling of warmth or cosiness” where visitors can relax and unwind.

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Almost a quarter of visitors come to Scotland to get away from it all, while more than 4 million UK visitors mentioned relaxing as something they did when here.

Còsagach is just one of the trends identified by VisitScotland’s Insight Department and comes off the back of a boom in the trend for Hygge.

According to the researchers the rural experience in Scotland can help harness a desire for both physical and spiritual wellness.

With connections in both nature and the wilderness Scotland’s rural landscape offers endless opportunities to promote both a physical and mental detox from fast paced living.

Photo by Jack Boothby The Lazy Duck, Nethy Bridge

“With tranquil seascapes, vast open spaces and many warm and welcoming pubs, Scotland is a perfect place for your well-being, so perfect in fact that a word of Scottish origin has been dedicated to that feeling of being snug, sheltered, or cosy; Còsagach,” says the report.

“Scotland is a country where Còsagach can be achieved in all seasons, but it’s winter when it

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comes into its own. It’s no secret that Scotland can have, at times, rather harsh and ferocious weather. In the winter when the storms rage and the waves crash against the rocks, there is nothing more satisfying than being curled up in front of the fire, book and hot toddy in hand, listening to the weather outside.”

That feeling of well-being induced

by Còsagach also forms the basis

for another trend, “Wellness”, where visitors seek escapism from technology and their fast-paced lives in tourism-related activities, to recharge their mind and body.

“Well-being is an interest that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon,” says the report which suggests that Scotland is ideally placed to help visitors relax and unwind.

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Old Mother Nature’s recipes creating the beer necessities of life p108

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f beauty truly lies in the hands of the beer holder then Scotland has never looked so attractive.

Bellfield Brewary

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The growing popularity of real ale has led to a surge in craft brewers across the country along with a surge in beer festivals, with at least one

Photo by Pul Tomkins/VisitScotland Enjoying a drink

taking place somewhere in the UK on average every two days.

Pubs, clubs and communities nationwide have discovered the economic and social benefits of celebrating a craft industry which has undergone a major resurgence and explosion in the last 10 years.

Forget the hackneyed old image of real ale lovers with bald heads, shaggy beards and stained teeshirts stretched to breaking point over pregnant beer bellies imbibing real ale with all the pretentious sophistication of an amateur oenophile. There is a new breed of connoisseur in town who has rejected the vast array of prepackaged, artificially advertised, celebrity-endorsed and massproduced lagers which dominate supermarket shelves in favour of flavour.

In the last few years the food and drink industry has undergone a reformation in responsibility.

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Photo by VisitScotland Valhalla Brewery, the most northerly brewery in the UK

Bellfield is the UK’s only dedicated gluten- free microbrewery

Consumers increasingly want to know the provenance of what they are willing to spend money on to put in their mouths. In the same way people want to know where the Sunday roast comes from or exactly what’s in the supermarket sausages ale lovers are interested in the source of their beer.

There are also the health benefits of real ale. There are less chemical additives in beer compared to cheap mass produced lager and it is full of B vitamins, iron and anti-oxidants credited with helping to reduce cholesterol.

It’s believed that beer has been brewed in Scotland for more than 5000 years and with more than 115 breweries, stretching from the Valhalla Brewery on Unst in Shetland to Portpatrick Brewery near Stranraer, Scotland is in the midst of a craft beer revolution.

To celebrate the resurgence in the craft VisitScotland has produced a dedicated map showcasing some

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of the country’s leading producers so that fans of the real stuff can work their way around the country discovering some of the finest craft brews.

The new map currently holds details of more than 70 producers, with more expected to be added in future.

Virtual visitors can explore beers by region, find their favourite brands and embark on tours and tastings.

“No matter where you are in Scotland, you’re never far from a good local craft beer,” said Caroline Wengel, The Brewers Association of Scotland’s (TBAS) Business Development Manager.

“The Scottish food and drink story is a real success and the beer revolution is at the heart of it. We know that visitors to our country love to eat and drink locally made produce and this new interactive map will help tourists discover breweries to visit and beers to try during their trip.”

Some brewers, such as Bellfield in Edinburgh, have gone further in the quest to create fine ales for a new market.

Launched in March 2016 by Giselle and Robin Baillie the Edinburghbased Bellfield Brewery is a market leader in the production of gluten free beer.

As the UK’s only dedicated glutenfree microbrewery the company currently makes two award winning beers. Bohemian Pilsner (4.5% ABV) which is described as “a noble classic Czech pilsner, pale with a light body, slight background bitterness and gentle floral tones from the finest Saaz hops leading to a soft refreshing finish.

The other, Lawless Village IPA (4.5% ABV), is brewed as a traditional American IPA made with pale and crystal malts and Cascade and Centennial American hops for a modern, citrusy finish.

The surge in demand for beer

The team behind Windswept beer

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has also opened the industry to newcomers such as former RAF Dambuster Al Read and fellow fighter pilot Nigel Tiddy who swapped bombs for beers.

The ex-Tornado pilots have seen their microbrewery business take-off at supersonic speed after their beers were picked to represent Scotland at the Open Golf Championship at Castle Stuart.

Al, 46, a former member of the famous Dambusters 617 Squadron, and business partner Nigel, 49, have won several awards and lots of praise for their range of 11 craft beers, including two appropriately called Typhoon and Tornado.

In just five years the former Squadron Leaders have turned their hobby into a thriving-businesses which exports to nine countries and supplies major retailers such as Waitrose and the Co-Op.

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However, probably the biggest beneficiary of the craft beer trend in Scotland to date is BrewDog. Probably one of Scotland’s best known ale exports the company has held the title of World’s Strongest Beer three times, most recently with a 55 per cent beer packaged in taxidermy roadkill.

Their brewery in Ellon, Aberdeenshire is their global headquarters and it’s here you can enjoy a 90 minute interactive tour of their epic new Brewhouse, as well as a tour of their new LoneWolf Distillery. After the tour, visitors can enjoy the brewery taproom DogTap, for more beers and food.

Among other top brewers highlighted on the new map is Brew Dog’s relatively close neighbour, Cairngorm Brewery. Situated in the village of Aviemore within the Cairngorms National Park it was established in 2001.

Keen to keep traditional recipes alive, as well as brewing new and interesting styles, the brewery has gained many awards and accolades for their beers. This 4 star visitor attraction is open all year round while the brewery shop offers tours and tastings.

Across the country in Argyll Fyne Ales is an authentic Scottish farmhouse brewery that has been creating award-winning beers since 2001. Based in the stunning surroundings of Glen Fyne at the head of Scotland’s longest sea loch, Fyne Ales Brewery Tap & Shop was named ‘Beer Destination of the Year’ at the 2017 Scottish Beer Awards.

In central Scotland Drygate Brewery Co, nestled in the historic heart of Glasgow, is the UK’s first experiential microbrewery, creating fresh and modern beer under the iconic Seven Peaks of 85 Drygate. It is the intention of this Brewer to collaborate and cultivate links with their community, inviting all those with open minds to embark on a journey of brewing and discovery.

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In the south of Scotland Born in the Borders is the only brewery in Scotland where you can go grass sledging and the only one to have created a giant crop circle pint out of a field of barley.

Born in the Borders is a multi-award winning farm-based microbrewery located near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders. Established in 2011, the brewery creates real ale using barley grown in the fields around it. Visitors can take self-guided brewery tours, eat at the onsite restaurant and visit the farm shop. Guided tours are available by appointment.

Also in the Borders, just off the A701,

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Broughton Brewery is Scotland’s original, independent brewery where they have been brewing delicious beers authentically since 1979. All of the beers are hand-crafted using traditional open fermentation, and a malt mill dating back to the 1960s.

Their award-winning lagers, ales, stouts and speciality beers include Hopopotamus IPA, Old Jock Ale, Greenmantle and as the brewery is only two miles from his grave, Merlin’s Ale. Cross Borders Brewing Company Ltd has been creating ‘braw’ beer since 2016, Cross Borders produce a range of multi-award-winning craft beers in cask, keg and can.

Widely distributed across Scotland and North East England, you’ll find their brews in many of the finest pubs, bars and independent retailers.

They use only the best ingredients, experimenting with new styles and re-inventing traditional beers with a contemporary twist. And they do all of this with a sense of adventure and excitement, always seeking to cross new borders in beer.

From early 2018, visitors will be able to experience a new range of tours and tastings sessions.

Not to be left out Scotland’s islands have their fair share of real ale craftsmen.

Photo by Paul Tomkins/VisitScotland Traquair House Brewery, Traquair House, Innerleithen, Scottish Borders

For a small island, Colonsay is a big player in the craft alcohol market creating both beers and gin. The pace of life on Colonsay is slow, it’s like stepping back in time – nobody is in a hurry. And that goes for Colonsay Brewery’s beers which are slow-brewed to deliver maximum flavour and refreshment. They source the very best natural Scottish ingredients, including pure Hebridean water, to make three core beers – IPA, 80/- and Pig’s Paradise Blonde.

The beautiful small Isle of Eigg, off the West Highland coast, is only 12 square miles in size and is arguably the smallest island in the world with a brewery. In 2017 the island community of Eigg celebrated two decades as a self-sustaining island.

Laig Bay Brewing Company brews small-batch artisan beer steeped in its wild locale. Its remote location means visits must be arranged by appointment.

“Beer is pretty big business in Scotland. With more than 115 breweries operating across the

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country, the variety and quality of beer and ale being produced and served in Scotland’s bars and pubs and available in our shops and supermarkets is greater than ever,” said Steve Duncan, VisitScotland Marketing Manager.

“This new interactive map, which can be easily updated, has been created to make it easy for visitors to include a brewery tour as part of a holiday or short break in Scotland as well as recognising the growing interest in Scotland’s craft beer sector.”

To explore Scotland’s Craft Beer Map and learn more about Scottish beer visit: www.visitscotland.com/see-do/ food-drink/breweries-craft-beer/map/

Photo by Paul Tomkins/VisitScotland The Tasting Hall at the Orkney Brewery and Visitor Centre, Quoyloo, Stromness, Kirk designs own tartan to celebrate Scottish heritage

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Kirk designs own tartan to celebrate Scottish heritage

T

he Church of Scotland has unveiled its own distinct tartan to celebrate its enduring role as the country’s national Kirk.

Each of the five colours hold deep meaning for the Presbyterian denomination, which was established in 1560.

Rev Iain Cunningham, convener of the World Mission Council which commissioned the tartan on behalf of the wider Church, said it was an “eye catching and well balanced” design.

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He said the idea was to make use of colours associated with the liturgical calendar, Christian tradition and links with the nation of Scotland.

Purple symbolises royalty, the sovereignty of Jesus Christ as the head of the Church, divinity, the thistle and heather.

Red represents the blood of Christ, Christian martyrs, the flames of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit, the Burning Bush from which God spoke to Moses and the Scottish Lion Rampant.

Blue represents Mary, the mother of Christ, the sky, St Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, and the Kirk itself.

Green is for the earth, growth, glens, moors and mountains.

White symbolises brightness, the purity of Christ, the cross in the official emblem of the Church of Scotland and the Saltire, the country’s national flag.

The distinctive wool cloth, which has been entered in the Scottish Register of Tartans, will be used to make a wide range of products including

kilts, scarves, ties and furniture upholstery.

The tartan was designed and woven by staff at leading textile manufacturer, Lochcarron of Scotland, in Selkirk in the Scottish Borders.

Mr Cunningham, who watched the tartan being made, said: “The Church of Scotland Guild has its own distinct tartan but some time ago our council decided it would be an excellent idea to commission a special pattern for the Church as a whole.

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“We put together a design in consultation with Lochcarron of Scotland and are very pleased with what they came up with.

It is an eye catching and well balanced design.

“All of the colours have multiple levels of significance for the Church and help to tell its rich story.”

Mr Cunningham said tartan ties and scarves would make ideal gifts for representatives of the Church, including the Moderator of the

General Assembly, to give to people they meet at home and abroad on official engagements.

Peter Gerlam, operations manager at Lochcarron of Scotland, said: “It has been an interesting process working with the Church and getting the colours and design together was straight forward.

“We are delighted to have the product ready for launch and sure that it will be a great success.”

Date 4 ur diary

Scotland

4 December - 2 February LEGO: Jacobite Risings at Stirling Castle Castle Esplanade, Stirling Brick to the Past comes to Stirling Castle this winter with their fantastic LEGO depiction of the Jacobite Risings.

The enormous 6x3m scene features Historic Scotland’s own Corgarff Castle and Ruthven Barracks as well as over 2000 soldiers, Cairngorm mountain range, a Highland village, fortifications, Scottish wildlife and one or two surprises. http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/whatson/events/legojacobite-risings-at-stirling-castle/?month=1217 31 December - 1 January Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Edinburgh More than 75,000 revellers from around the world will party at the heart of Scotland’s capital to welcome 2018. Live music and entertainment, DJ’s, giant screens, outdoor bars and the world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks. https://www.edinburghshogmanay.com 31 December - 1 January Stonehaven Fireball Festival Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire The Fireball Ceremony is Stonehaven’s unique way to welcome in the New Year and greet friends and neighbours. As the midnight chimes ring out on December 31st, approximately 40 men and women parade up and down the High Street swinging fiercely flaming balls around their heads. http://stonehavenfireballs.co.uk 31 December 2017 - 1 January 2018 Stirling’s Hogmanay Stirling Celebrate Hogmanay and bring in the New Year in style as Stirling hosts its biggest ever midnight fireworks display. Other events and activities include free, lanternmaking workshops at The Tolbooth and the traditional Albert Halls Hogmanay Ceilidh. http://www.stirlingwinterfestival.com 31 December 2017 - 1 January 2018 Aberdeen Hogmanay Celebrations Aberdeen Bring in the bells at our open air stage in Schoolhill for the ultimate Aberdeen street party. With live music from the Mersey Beatles and The Banjo Lounge 4, before a spectacular fireworks display from His Majesty’s Theatre rooftop at midnight

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If you have a future event you would like included in our diary please email details to news@scotlandcorrespondent.com https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/leisure-cultureand-sport/events-and-tourism/christmas-aberdeen-2017/ aberdeen-hogmanay-celebrations-2017 1 January The Loony Dook South Queensferry Get 2018 off to a fresh start with a bracing New Year’s Day dip in the freezing River Forth!For 30 years, thousands of people have taken the New Year plunge, raising tens of thousands of pounds for charities across the UK. https://www.edinburghshogmanay.com/whats-on/loonydook1 1 January The Ba’ Kirkwall The Ba’ is played every Christmas and New Year’s Day in Kirkwall, Orkney. This traditional game of mass football is played in the streets of the town between the Uppies and the Doonies http://www.bagame.com 11 January Burning of the Clavie Brander Street, Burghead the Burning of the Clavie, a fire festival unique to Burghead, which greets the New Year. The significance of the 11th January dates back to the 1750’s, when the Julian calendar was reformed in Britain. The new Gregorian calendar was introduced. People rioted, demanding back their 11 days – but not in Burghead.

Brochers decided to have the best of both worlds, by celebrating New Year twice – on 1st January and the 11th January. http://www.burghead.com/clavie/ 12 January Scalloway Fire Festival Scalloway A torchlit procession and galley burning, with music.

The jarl squad tour a range of schools and other venues through the day, then the torch-bearing procession and galley burning take place after 6.30pm. On the sunday there is Hop Night, which is open to anyone and is three lively gigs in a row in different local venues. http://www.shetland.org/things/events/culture-heritage/ up-helly-aa 18 January - 4 February 2018 Celtic Connections Glasgow Celtic Connections is the largest winter music festival of its kind and the UK’s premier celebration of celtic music.

2,100 musicians from around the world will descend

on Glasgow and bring the city to life with 300 events, including concerts, ceilidhs, talks, art exhibitions and workshops. http://www.celticconnections.com/Pages/default.aspx 18 - 29 January Big Burns Supper Festival Whitesands, Dumfries The world biggest Burns Night celebration with 11 days of music, theatre, comedy and much more in the official resting place of the national poet, Robert Burns. http://www.bigburnssupper.com 20 - 21 January Strathpuffer 24 Strathpeffer Freezing temperatures. 17 hours of darkness. Miles upon miles of gruelling terrain. A brutal mix of ice, wind, hail, mud and snow. And maybe, just maybe, a glorious Scottish winter sunrise...

When it comes to mountain bike challenges, they don’t come much tougher or more rewarding than the Strathpuffer - the legendary 24 hour mountain bike endurance event held every year in the Highlands of Scotland in the middle of winter. https://strathpuffer.co.uk 27 - 28 January Aviemore Sled Dog Rally Glenmore, Aviemore The largest event of its kind in the UK, with over 1,000 sled dogs and 250 mushers racing around a four to seven mile trail. If there’s no snow at ground level for the event, the races still go on with mushers using a three-wheeled rig that looks like a tricycle without a seat. http://siberianhuskyclub.org.uk 27 January Burns Ceilidh with Hehir, Jones and MacCallum Burn o’ Bennie, Banchory A celebration of the national poet Robert Burns with Barn favourites Hehir, Jones and MacCallum as they provide an evening of lively traditional music to set your feet tapping and get you onto the dance floor. A great night of haggis and dancing awaits. https://www.thebarnarts.co.uk 30 January Up Helly Aa St Sunniva Street, Lerwick Up Helly Aa, which takes place in Lerwick, Shetland, on the last Tuesday in January every year involves a series of marches and visitations, culminating in a torch-lit procession and the burning of a galley. A truly amazing spectacle. http://www.uphellyaa.org

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Australia

1 January The Maryborough Highland Gathering Maryborough, VIC Australia Australia’s oldest continuous running sporting event the Maryborough Highland Gathering has been conducted each New Year since its formation in 1857, with the exception of the war years 1942-1945. Originally formed by gold prospectors, Scottish squatters and businessmen who had arrived in the goldfields and central Victoria from Scotland the event was organised to re-create their traditional New Year Highland celebrations in their adopted land. www.highlandsociety.com.au 25 January City of Hobart Highland Pipe Band Burns Night Hobart, TAS Australia The City of Hobart Highland Pipe Band presents the 2018 Burns Night - an evening of live celtic music (incl a performance by CoHHPB) and dancing, traditional haggis and roast carvery buffet and whisky. https://www.facebook.com/events/164358170979659/ 25 January 2018 Burns Supper Perth, WA Australia.

The Saint Andrew Society of WA have been celebrating Robert Burns’ birthday for the better part of 80 years and we take great pride in putting on the best Burns Supper in Perth! Members and non-members alike are invited to attend on this, the Bard’s 258th birthday. http://saintandrew.org.au 27 January Mackay & District Pipe Band Burns Supper 2018 Mackay, QLD. An evening of pipes & drums, plenty of dancing, a buffet dinner (complete with haggis) and some poetry to celebrate the birth of Robert Burns. www.mackaypipeband.com.au

Canada

13 January Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate Montréal, QC. Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate is indelibly Scottish and undeniably Canadian. It speaks to the Scottish contribution to Canada’s multicultural heritage, and in 2018, it will be bigger than ever. www.kiltskate.com 19 January The Calgary Burns Club Annual Burns Supper The Calgary Burns Club was born in 1964 at a supper held in the home of John and Lilian Patterson. This

initiated a series of Burns Suppers hosted in turn by other Calgary Scots until formally becoming a club in 1976.

The club has been running annual Burns Suppers ever since and holds the memory of Robert Burns and the fellowship arising out of that memory to be one of the most important aspects of being Scottish Calgarians. www.calgaryburnsclub.com 19 January St. Andrew’s Society of Toronto Burns Night Toronto, ON An annual celebration of Robert Burns at the University Club of Toronto. The event follows the time-honoured format with the traditional piping-in of and Address to the Haggis, Toasts to the Lassies and Laddies and The Immortal Memory. www.standrews-society.ca 20 January St Andrew’s Society of Montreal Burns Supper Montréal, QC Join us for the Society’s Annual event that celebrates Robbie Burns who came to fame as a poet when he was 27 years old, and whose lifestyle of wine, women and song made him famous all over Scotland. Share a wee dram with friends, enjoy a traditional Scottish meal (with a gourmet flair) and raise your glasses in a toast to the lads and lassies. www.standrews.qc.ca 20 January Robbie Burns Tartan Ceilidh Regina, SK Join the Sons of Scotland, Camp Balmoral #177 on January 20, 2018 for the 119th Annual Robert Burns Dinner and Evening of Scottish Entertainment (aka Ceilidh)! Bagpipes! Haggis! Speeches! Dancing! Get your tickets while you can! https://www.facebook.com/events/283809982129892/ 20 January Robbie Burns Fundraising Gala Summerside, PE A celebration of the life and works of Robbie Burns to raise funds to go towards the operational expenses of The College and directly supporting the operational mission statement of “Empowering students to realize their full potential through Celtic Performing Arts”. www.collegeofpiping.com 20 January Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate Ottawa, ON. Lansdowne Park Skating Court. www.kiltskate.com 25 January 2018 Burns’ Statue Celebration Toronto, ON Join the St. Andrew’s Society of Toronto at the Burns

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Statue in Allan Gardens to honour Burns on his birthday.

There will be piping, haggis, whisky, neeps, tatties, singing, and good cheer! Although the event can be chilly the haggis is warm and so is the company. www.standrews-society.ca 26 January Whisky Jazz January 26, 2018 Hawkesbury, ON A celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns along with an opportunity to enjoy some great music and discover the different tastes of whisky at Centre Culturel Le Chenail. www.lechenail1975.ca 27 January Robert Burns Dinner & Ceilidh Cobourg, ON join us for our Robert Burns Dinner including Roast Beef Dinner with Haggis, salad, roasted root vegetables with Trifle and shortbread cookies for dessert, served buffet style by the Dutch Oven, with live entertainment by Madman’s Window, The Lindsay Rose Highland Dance Company, the Fiddleheads, and the Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums. www.cobourghighlandgames.ca/burns 27 January West Island Robbie Burns Night Pointe-Claire, QC A night of comedy, fod, song and dance to celebrate the life and work of Scotland’s national poet Robbert Burns. www.shanksevents.ca 27 January 4th Annual Rocky Mountain Pipe Band Robbie Burns Dinner Calgary, AB Join us for our third annual “Burns Dinner” fundraiser in celebration of Scotland’s most beloved poet! There’ll be live entertainment, highland dancing, live music, great “craic” and of course bagpipes and drums!

Our great chefs will prepare a traditional Scottish feast including haggis, roast beef, neeps and tatties! www.rmpb.ca 27 January Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate Toronto, ON Nathan Phillips Square 100 Queen St W. www.kiltskate.com 27 January Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate Saskatoon, SK, Canada Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at PotashCorp Plaza, 945 Spadina Crescent. www.kiltskate.com

New Zealand

1 January Waipu Highland Games Waipu.

A fun filled day with a mix of Scottish traditional entertainment, piping, dancing, games, competitions, food, tartan in the park, and much much more. A fantastic day out for everybody. http://www.waipugames.co.nz 13 January Scots Wha Hae! Henderson Research West invites you to join us in celebrating the 259th anniversary of the birth of Scottish poet Robert (Rabbie) Burns, who was born on the 25 January 1759.

Enjoy a reading of Robert Burns’ poetry and learn about the Scottish settlement of Auckland’s north west from Carolyn Skelton.

Listen to some Scottish fiddle playing and enjoy bagpiping while watching Scottish dancers perform as we celebrate the Scottish poet’s life. https://www.facebook.com/events/203956266838361/ 20 January 141st Waimate Caledonian Games & Sports Event Waimate.

Waimate Caledonian Games are celebrating their 141st anniversary. They have had games on every year since 1875 and is the longest running event in the Waimate District with cycling, skating, highland dancing, piping and athletic events. https://www.facebook.com/events/2157265047834132/ 20 January Burns Night Ceilidh Parnell, Auckland.

Come along and experience a true Scottish Burns night!

And (hopefully) some decent banter and (definitely) men in kilts! https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2018/burns-night-ceilidh/ auckland/parnell 25 January Burns Night Dunedin.

The Dunedin Burns Club was first founded in 1861 but later went into a period of recess before being reestablished with its present constitution in 1891. The objects of the Club include celebrating annually the birth of the Scottish Poet, Robert Burns, studying his poetry and in other ways perpetuating his memory. In addition the Club seeks to foster the love of Scottish song and story. http://dbci.blogtown.co.nz

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27 January 154th Turakina Highland Games Turakina The first ‘Turakina Highland Games’ were held 1864 and are New Zealand’s oldest on-land sporting event. www.turakinahighlandgames.co.nz

USA

6 January Florida Keys Celtic Festival Marathon, FL The Florida Keys Celtic Festival (FKCF) is an annual celebration of Celtic music, food and heritage. Entering its fifth year, FKCF attracts thousands of visitors to the two-day cultural event at the City Park in Marathon, Florida; where internationally famous bands, highland games, sheepherding dogs, and Celtic vendors regale the crowds. This year we will even entice everyone to enter a traditional “Celtic Village”! www.floridakeyscelticfestival.com 13-14 January Central Florida Scottish Highland Games Winter Springs, FL Experience traditional highland athletics, dance, art, music, culture, food and a Gaelic spirit that will awaken your soul. The Scottish-American Society of Central Florida was founded in 1976 to celebrate and carry on the Scottish traditions here in the U.S. www.flascot.com 19 January The American-Scottish Foundation 23rd Burns Night Gala Celebration New York, NY The American-Scottish Foundation invites members and friends to join for the 23rd Annual Burns Night celebration, held in association with the University Club, New York, as we celebrate Scotland’s national bard www.americanscottishfoundation.com 20 January 2018 SASC Burns Supper Denver, CO An evening of Celebrating the life of Robert Burns with fine food, Good Company, and Scottish entertainment. www.coloradoscots.com 20 January Hawkeye Area Grand Gaelic Isles Society Burns Dinner 2018 Cedar Rapids, IA. An evening of celebration in the name of Robert Burns. www.haggis-iowa.com 20 January St. Andrews Society of Southern Nevada Burns Supper

Come and celebrate the Bard with the the St. Andrew’s Society of Southern Nevada, the society for all Scots and anyone with a love for Scotland. www.sassn.com 26 January The Scottish American Society 3rd Annual Burns Dinner New Franklin, OH. Come and celebrate Robert Burns with a group of people interested in the culture and history of Scotland and her people. www.scottishamericansociety.org 26 - 27 January The 15th Annual Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival Fort Myers, FL A thrilling musical lineup to celebrate Celtic heritage and culture. www.celticheritageproductions.com/caloosahatchee.htm

27 January Robert Burns Supper Studio City, CA. The Saint Andrew’s Society of Los Angeles is the oldest organisation in Southern California devoted to the promotion of Scottish culture. Come and celebrate with us the life and work of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns. www.saintandrewsla.org 27 January Celtic Arts Foundation Burns Supper Mount Vernon, WA. Scots around the globe gather each year to celebrate the birthday of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. The Celtic Arts Foundation marks this festive evening with a dinner honoring the great bard, complete with whisky, poetry readings, highland dance, and–of course–haggis!

27 January Robert Burns Supper Modesto, CA Join Us in Celebrating Robert Burns’ 259th Birthday www.standrewsmodesto.org 27 January Scottish American Society Of South Florida Burns Supper Hollywood, FL. The Scottish American Society of South Florida invites you to join us for a Dinner, Concert & Dance to celebrate the bard. www.SASSF.org 27 January Burns Supper Charleston, SC. The Scottish Society of Charleston presents its annual Burns Supper, a celebration of the life and works of Scotland’s Poet Laureate, Robert Burns.

Join us for a wonderful meal, entertaining toasts and haggis.This is truly a memorable evening and one of the greatest traditions in all of Scottish culture. www.charlestonscots.org 27 January Sarasota Highland Games and Celtic Festival Sarasota, FL. The Scottish Heritage Society of Sarasota, Inc was established in 1994. The main purpose of the Society is to create through education and promotion of Scottish history, heritage and culture to the community. And that is how the Sarasota Highland Games & Celtic Festival came about. This will be our 24th year. www.sarasotahighlandgames.com Robert Burns whose birthday on 25 January is celebrated around the world by Scots and their friends.

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