North Lanarkshire Council's Burns Night raises thousands for Children in Need

Jan 23 2013 by Maria Smith, Wishaw Press

NLC Burns Supper

North Lanarkshire Council are toasting success after raising thousands of pounds for Children in Need at their annual Burns Supper.

The event, hosted by Provost Jim Robertson, took place on Friday in Motherwell’s Civic Centre and raised £3765 for the children’s charity from an auction and raffle.

Highlights of the evening included music from talented Clyde Valley High School piper Callum Cowan and folk band Gaberlunzie.

Jim Kelly led the address while the haggis was played in.

Council leader Jim McCabe joined in the festivities, giving the Selkirk Grace, and the Loyal Toast was given by Sir Charles Gray.

Guests were treated to John Haining’s performance of the Immortal Memory and Cameron Strain’s rendition of The Lament.

The traditional Toast tae the Lasses was performed by Bobby Dalziel and the Reply fae the Lasses was given by Anne Fawbert.

And, of course, guests tucked into a traditional haggis, neeps and tatties.

Provost Robertson, also a Shotts councillor, told the Wishaw Press: “The Burns Supper is an important tradition for millions of people throughout the world who regularly celebrate their Scottish heritage.

“It was an honour to host the event which raises so much money for such a worthwhile cause – the BBC’s Children in Need Charity.

“I would like to thank all those who have helped to make this year’s event such a success, from the council staff to all the people who have donated raffle prizes, offer sponsorship or purchased a table at the event.

“The charity support many fantastic projects throughout North Lanarkshire and make a huge difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable young people.”

The evening’s celebrations were sponsored by M&D’s theme park.