The Hilton Hotel in Abingdon resonated with the lively sounds of bagpipes, Robbie Burns’ poetry, and the Blues Brothers music, creating a warm, convivial atmosphere for over 120 people at the Abbey Lodge’s Burns’ Night.
The Selkirk Grace
The Haggis was piped in with great style by David Morgan. Ed Glasby gave the traditional address and toast before plunging his dirk into the Haggis.
After the meal, Chairman of Trustees of the charity, “Against Breast Cancer,” Richard Bahu, and Laura Hounam shared inspiring updates on the charity’s work, including a breakthrough in early diagnosis through a blood test, fostering hope and confidence among supporters.
During the evening, a raffle with a myriad of prizes was held in aid of the Abingdon-based charity chosen by the lodge. These funds were added to by an auction and a “Pitch a pound for a bottle of Kraken Rum” contest.
An array of prizes and a lucky winner, who looks too young for those prizes!
Different styles in the Kraken competition
The entertainment began with recitations of some of Burns’ more bawdy poetry and songs by Ed Glasby.
Martin Davidson, who masterminded the event.
The IPM and JW enjoyed the poetry and songs.
A well-shod Mason
Then it was time to rock and roll to the music of the Blues Brothers
Three happy Masons at the celebration of brother Robbie Burns’ birthday
A final word from Worshipful Master of Abbey Lodge, Steven Purnell.
“As Master of the Abbey Lodge, I express my grateful thanks to the Piper, David Morgan, and photographer, Lucy Greaves, who waived their fees for the evening, and to Jamie Chapman of the Hilton Hotel, for his help in arranging the event. Many others helped in making the evening a success, in particular, Martin Davidson, Andrew Murray and Peter Leeman. Thanks to the hard work and generosity of the brethren, we raised £2,000 for Abingdon-based charity Against Breast Cancer.”
