Despite the Scottish weather trying its best to dampen our spirits at Robroyston there was once again a healthy turnout to pay respect to not just William Wallace, but to fallen comrades and friends who we’ve lost over the years, especially Duncan who at today’s commemoration was very much in our thoughts.

Treasurer George Boyle welcomed everybody, and gave thanks for their attendance on a day which would have been far more suited to sitting on the couch with a cup of tea rather than standing out here in the rain, but stand out here in the rain is what these brave souls chose to do with their Saturday afternoon.

George reminded us of the way he views coming to commemorations like these, saying that of course he’s there to remember Wallace but he’s also there to remember friends who are no longer with us as he associates places like Robroyston with the likes of David R Ross and Duncan Fenton and feels closer to them when he’s here and remembers all the times where they stood shoulder to shoulder at events like these, poignant indeed.

Gary Stewart addresses the crowd

George welcomed Vice Convenor Gary Stewart to say a few words and as always Gary gave us his honest opinion on Scotland, the Society and the adjustment we are all going through without Duncan.

Talking of Scotland and the referendum Gary came away with an interesting theory about this years referendum compared to the one in 1979.

In 1978 Scotland featured, well kind of, in Argentina’s World Cup in 1978 which was a disastrous and calamitous event for Scotland’s national team which, according to Gary, put Scotland on a downer which may have affected people’s mind-set for the 79 referendum.

Fast forward to 2014, the Commonwealth Games have been such a success and Scotland seems to have genuinely embraced them and the feel good factor is high, hence people are supporting Team Scotland and might just convince some people to vote for independence this time round.

Gary handed us over to young Stephanie Reilly who was doing her maiden speech today and what a fine job she did.

Stephanie and her Dad, Tam spend their time going to just about every event concerning Scotland, whether it be supporting various commemorations or promoting Scotland’s future, they are always there, and Stephanie’s speech reflected that.

She told us how she was inspired by Duncan Fenton who always took time out to talk to her and encourage her in all she was doing in Scotland’s name and was one of the reasons she wanted to speak here today.

Stephanie briefly reminded us of the betrayal of William Wallace on this site in August 1305 and the effect that it had on Scotland’s history, she also reminded us that Wallace died fighting for his country’s freedom whereby this September all we have to do is tick a box with a pen and vote Yes in next months referendum!!

Wise words from one so young.

Looking relaxed

We then laid some flowers in memory of Wallace and our fallen comrades which was wonderfully well done this year by our friend and Society member Elaine Kempik, thanks Elaine.

We then asked anyone who would like to say a few words to step forward, Society member John Orr took the opportunity to tell us how much he loved coming to small events like Robroyston, not just because they’re just as important as the bigger events but he liked the intimacy and the quietness of it, the chance to really focus on why you’re there and the opportunity to talk and mingle with like-minded souls on a more personal basis, we hear what you’re saying there John.

John finished off with paying his own personal homage to Duncan and David and thanked the Society for all that they do and wished us well in all the changes that ultimately come with such tragedy.

Gary finished off proceedings by thanking everyone once again and promised them that they would all dry out soon, it’s only water.

On behalf of the Society of William Wallace we’d like to thank everyone who attended, to all our speakers, thank you for stepping up, without you all there wouldn’t be a Society, see you all at Wallace Day.

George Boyle