West Renfrewshire Branch Centenary Ball

In celebration of reaching our 100th anniversary West Renfrewshire Branch held our Centenary Ball in Greenock Town Hall on Friday 6th March this year.  Our guest speaker was Mr Gary Coull, Chair RSCDS.  We had over 125 attendees and 'Ian Muir Sound' played fabulous music to accompany all our dances during the evening.  

The event started with a speech from our own Chair, Mrs Joan Pow (speech attached) and a toast to The King, our Patron. Mr Coull then gave a lovely warm speech congratulating us on our centenary; informing us how the society aims to modernise itself and hopefully increase its membership and then proposed a toast to 'West Renfrewshire Branch'.  

Mrs Mattie Stirling, our longest standing member who is still dancing, was then invited to cut our celebratory cake. 

The evening continued with an excellent buffet supplied by 'First Choice Catering' before dancing commenced for the evening.  

The dance programme was chosen by Mrs Vera McKechnie, our class teacher. She had also devised a dance called 'West Renfrewshire Centenary Jig' for this special celebration. Part of the formations cleverly form the number 100. We also danced ' The Ross Strathspey' which was previously devised by members of 'West Renfrewshire Branch' in honour of the Ross family. Vera's maiden name is Ross and her late parents were heavily involved in the branch and her sister, Sandra continues as a member of the class.  

During the interval our raffle was drawn and raised the wonderful total of £500 for 'British Heart Foundation'. We would like to thank those local companies who kindly donated prizes and also all those who bought tickets on the night. 

A presentation was also made during the evening by Joan on behalf of the branch to Vera who has been involved in our branch for over 60 years, mostly as our teacher and also devising some dances. 

 The evening closed at midnight with a thank you speech from club member, Mr John Pow, then everyone joined in singing 'Auld Lang Syne'. 

A great night was had by all and lovely memories were made. 

photographer on the night was Mr Paul Wilson, a friend of the branch