Fifty Rotarians and esteemed guests gathered at the iconic South Beach Hotel to honour the legacy of Scotland's beloved Bard, Robert Burns, in an evening filled with tradition, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Troon, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Scotland and the enduring spirit of community.
The evening commenced with the stirring sound of bagpipes as 12-year-old Finlay Cummings piped in the haggis, a symbol of Scottish pride and tradition.
Rotarian George Watson led the time-honoured toast to the Haggis, marking the beginning of an unforgettable evening.
Angus Middleton, president of Irvine Burns Club, delivered an eloquent and knowledgeable Immortal Memory, paying homage to Burns and his enduring influence on Scottish culture and literature.
The entertainment was nothing short of spectacular, with the enchanting performances of The Quiggs husband and wife vocal duo, Steven and Ternile, captivating the audience and adding to the evening's charm and delight.
The club's commitment to making a difference extended beyond the celebration, as they hosted their main fund-raising event, the Fiddlers Concert, at Troon Concert Hall on March 24.
The concert featured the talents of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra, Troon Boys’ Brigade Pipes and Drums, and the Muirhead Primary School choir, captivating the audience with their musical prowess.
Proceeds from the Fiddlers' concert will benefit the Honeypot Children’s Charity and Troon Rotary community projects, underscoring the club's dedication to supporting worthy causes and making a positive impact in the community.
In addition to their fundraising efforts, the club recently awarded a £200 grant to the 28th Ayrshire Scout Troop, represented by Bernadette Young and Russell Brown, to support their various activities.
An additional cheque for £500 was presented solely towards the purchase of the Scout Centre, highlighting the Rotary Club of Troon's ongoing commitment to empowering youth and fostering community development.
As reported previously, the Scouts launched a funding appeal in January to buy the building in St Meddans Street from South Ayrshire Council - a move the Scouts say is essential if the vital community facility is to remain open.
The Rotary Club's donation, along with contributions made in an online appeal at justgiving.com, means more than £7,000 has now been donated to the Scouts' campaign.
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