Avoch Commemoration 2012

AVOCH COMMEMORATION 2012

On Saturday 19th May, several members of the SOWW caught up with old friends as we attended the Annual Flag Raising Ceremony in Avoch, run by the Andrew de Moray Project.

We marched to the site of Ormond Castle, scene of the raising of the standard by Andrew de Moray, signalling the Scots’ fight back against the English invader.

Later that year, Moray & his army marched south & met up with Wallace’s men. Together, they vanquished the much larger English force at Stirling Bridge.

Arriving at the top of the hill, Project Organiser, Charlie Beattie, spoke of the historical background which this event commemorates. Duncan Fenton was then asked to say a few words, commenting on the strong links between the two societies.

Rob Gibson, the Project’s Convenor, told the crowd that this commemoration marks an important event in Scotland’s history. He also spoke about ongoing plans to erect a statue of Andrew de Moray in Avoch.

Duncan then presented the new saltire on behalf of the SOWW. Allan Angus, who was given the honour of raising last year’s flag, then lowered it, & was given it as a keepsake.The new flag was then attached & raised by Sally Bradshaw.

This was greeted by applause from the crowd & a rousing “Alba gu Brath!” from Charlie.

Returning from the hill, we were invited to Charlie & Liz’s house for a buffet. Thanks for the hospitality, guys.

Later that evening, we met in the Station Hotel to attend the Project’s AGM.

Following this was a great night’s entertainment, provided by our good friend, Ted Christopher. Rob also got his guitar out & gave us a few numbers of his own.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable weekend yet again, in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland.