On Saturday night the Lancing College St Nicolas Association hosted a truly wonderful Burns night in celebration of the life and works of the Scottish national Bard Robert Burns.

As you entered the impressive buildings of the college and followed the candlelit path to the magnificent Dining Hall lit up in a beautiful amber glow the anticipation of the evening’s events grew for everyone.

Mouthwatering canapes, prosecco and whiskey flowed as the guests arrived.  With ladies looking resplendent in tartan dresses and sashes, decorated with Celtic brooches.  The gentlemen looked equally impressive, some wearing traditional highland dress as they made their way to the tables to await the feast.

A warm welcome was made to the assembled guests and the evening’s entertainment Kate’s Kitchen Band accompanied by Whispering Dave the caller. The ceremony began with a traditional prayer The Selkirk Grace which is usually recited in Scots.

Some hae meat and canna eat,

And some wad eat that want it,

But we hae meat and we can eat,

And sae the Lord be thankit.

As the guests stood the star attraction of the dinner, the haggis, was piped in by Rod Scott in full highland dress whilst being carried on a large silver platter by the chef. Guests clapped in time with the music until it ended when everyone sat for the Address to the Haggis a tribute made to the Scottish dish followed by the Toast to the Haggis whereby the guests raised a glass of Whisky readied on the tables and shouted “The Haggis”.

The main course of Haggis with neeps and tatties served with whisky sauce was a popular choice amongst guests on the night.  Followed by Black forest cranachan and Scottish shortbread.  “Absolutely delicious” declared the guests.  As the meal came to an end Kate’s Kitchen Band began the evening’s entertainment of traditional Scottish dancing.

The music resonated around the walls and vaulted ceiling of the Dining Hall as guests endeavored to perfect their dancing.  With laughter, smiles and much joviality the evening of celebration continued well into the night.  At Midnight the tired guests left for home, but not before asking to come again next year.

Harry Fisher

Lancing College