Bannockburn 2019

The weather was slightly overcast but warm and fairly bright as we assembled for a 1pm commencement of the annual commemoration at the Rotunda. Apart from Ted getting a request to move the PA a bit further round, there was no indication of any problem with us from the NTS, whom we had already spoken to and presented our Liability Insurance documents to. A respectable turn-out considering the march that was also taking place that day, and included quite a few tourists who were happy to spectate - and even participate, in the case of a couple of wee girls dancing madly to the music. The opening number "Scotland's Sons" from Ted was well received, as was his wee speech giving short details of the 2 day battle. Ken Shirra from the Templars then made a short speech, and gave the battlefield blessing. A minute's silence was fairly well observed (with just a couple of kids and dogs not quite getting the hang of it). The piper played, wreaths were laid, and then Graham Brown and one of his band gave us a song, "Watch Us Rise". Ted closed the commemoration with a mass rendition of "Scots Wha Hae". Then everyone dispersed in various directions, with quite a few ending up in the Tartan Arms as always. A good day out, decent contact made with the new management at the Centre, and a fine respectful commemoration in decent weather.

Nick Brand