We did it! An all-day, non-stop rendition of Robert Burns that we think is a world first.
It started at the door of Burns Cottage on the main road from Alloway into Ayr at ten in the morning. The slightly bemused audience of joggers, cyclists and dog-walkers gave lots of encouragement. Drivers slowed down and waved. Everyone was smiling.
An hour later we went into the cottage and over the next five hours were joined by many visitors and Burns enthusiasts, including children (who all got certificates) and a group of French people. Some wore costume, kilts were in evidence and two wee sisters were specially turned out in tartan dresses.
We heard a great range of poems: some longer like Tam o’ Shanter (several times), Scotch Drink and The Twa Dugs and some shorter like Address to a Haggis and Ae Fond Kiss. One man sang Ye Banks and Braes.
To round off at four o’clock, as rain and darkness closed in, we all took hands for a rousing Auld Lang Syne.
Friends of Robert Burns Birthplace Museum 