For the first time ever, the birthday supper and programme in honour of the Scottish national poet Robert Burns was held at Haikko Manor, near Porvoo, on 27th January 2017. Over 50 members and invited guests enjoyed a lively programme in a super and historic venue by the sea. The programme started with a warm welcome by Haikko Manor Managing Director, Juha Mähönen and followed the traditional Burns Night rituals including speeches and Burns peoems, such as the "Address to A Haggis" and "Immortal Memory Address", prize raffle, bagpipe music, a traditional band and dancing. Our guest of honour from Glasgow, Scotland was healthcare entrepreneur and past President of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Marilyn Orcharton. Marilyn delivered the Selkirk Grace and a spontaneous and good-humoured Immortal Memory address about Burns' life, works and how the poet would see Scotland today!
The first-class menu included the Scottish national dish, Haggis, with an excellent version produced by Haikko's chef, in addition to the one brought from Glasgow. The latter Haggis was ceremonially "slaughtered" during the "Toast to the Haggis" by B3CF Chairman, Garry Parker, with the help of a Napoleonic / Burns era sword, kindly provided by Haikko Manor owner, Mr. Veikko Wuoristo. One Burns' poem was eruditely delivered in Finnish during the recital by Haikko's Mr. Timo Tirri, who managed the whole event so well with the B3CF team.
Whisky fans were treated to two new drams, courtesy of Altia plc, including Black Bottle single malt. The raffle prizes, and evening, were kindly sponsored by British Airways, with two Club Class return flights to London, Jaguar Land Rover, with a Jaguar F-Pace for a week, and Altia with a bottle of Black Bottle whisky.
To conclude the lively evening, before heading to Haikko's Club, all guests joined hands and sang "Auld Lang Syne". We look forward to continue this tradition next year! Click any picture to see the whole gallery for the event.
