Bannockburn 2024

Today, 23/6/24, was the anniversary of the first day of the two day battle. There was a slightly reduced gathering this year, due to half the usual suspects being in Germany for the football, but at least the weather was kind to us compared to last year, being hot and sunny.

The Lanark Town Crier opened proceedings with a wee poem he had written for the occasion. Adrian (standing in for the absent Ted) then led us in a rendition of "Flower of Scotland". Steven Hughes then introduced Duncan from the Strathleven Artisans, who told some stories of the Bruce, and also spoke of one sad absence due to the death earlier this week of Ken Shirra of the Knights Templar, who for many years gave the Battlefield Address in the Rotunda. A minute's silence for all the dead was held, and no one there could remember an annual Bannockburn commemoration when Ken was not in attendance.

Then the wreaths were laid on behalf of the various societies present. Adrian led theo crowd in a rendition of "Scots Wha Hae", the traditional final song. Till next year...