Kintyre and Gigha raise a glass to the Bard

The celebration opened with the piping of the haggis by a parent and a spirited address by islander Alistair McNeil.

Between the main course of haggis, neeps, and tatties and the cranachan dessert, guests were treated to an accordion performance by an older pupil and a selection of poetry readings.

The event also served as a living history lesson, as pupils held a question and answer session with the elders to learn more about Gigha’s heritage, providing inspiration for upcoming school projects.

On Saturday, Campbeltown Bowling Club kicked off its 2026 entertainment calendar with a traditional Burns Supper. 

Malcolm Bannatyne recited the Selkirk Grace before the haggis was piped in by Susan Gilchrist and carried by Johnnie McLean.

Malcolm Ronald gave a stirring rendition of the Address to the Haggis, while the Immortal Memory was performed by Stuart McMillan. 

A witty Toast to the Lassies was provided by Thomas Cameron, with an equally sharp reply from Fiona Semple. 

The celebration continued with songs from Margaret Bannatyne and Hannah Gilchrist, and a captivating performance of Tam O’Shanter by Willie Renton. 

The night concluded on a high note with dancing and music by the band F!ing.

On Sunday, on Burns Day itself, Kintyre Care Centre hosted its own Burns Supper.

Young piper Arran Brown provided a moving performance that brought a tear to the eye of residents and staff as the haggis was brought in.

The care home’s kitchen team prepared a feast of Scotch broth and haggis in a whisky and pepper sauce, followed by cranachan, with homemade tablet and shortbread on offer throughout the day. 

During the afternoon, the group Dunskeig performed traditional Scottish music and poetry, providing a wonderful atmosphere as residents toasted the Bard with a few whiskies and glasses of prosecco.