A night of fun and songs

LANGHOLM Social Club hosted its Cornet’s night last Friday with David Pool in the chair.
David welcomed a packed house before Cornet Jeffrey, accompanied by his left and right-hand men Iain Little and Stuart Murray, entered the room.
David introduced the entertainers and welcomed Nessie Jeffrey, widow of Andrew Jeffrey, who would have been celebrating his diamond jubilee, and Christine Ewart, widow of the dearly-missed Ian Ewart who would have been celebrating his semi-jubilee. Christine was accompanied by sons Lawrence and Ben and Liz Ewart.
Billy Laidlaw, jubilee Cornet was welcomed and was accompanied by his daughter, Hannah Robertson, and her husband, Graham.
Billy Young opened the singing with Scotland Yet, accompanied by Jamie Telford.
David McVittie toasted the Common Riding and he recounted with pleasure how his home overlooking the High Street gives him prime position at this time of year to hear the flute, toon and pipe bands playing round the town and the crowds as they spilled merrily out of the pubs, making their way home all year round.
David spoke of the effort undertaken by the Common Riding members and the hard work and endless hours of time these volunteers give for Langholmites to enjoy their great day.
Singers
Nicky Henderson sang Soft Lowland Tongue before Roger Maxwell, Common Riding chairman, gave his reply.
When it was announced that Dumfries and Galloway Council would no longer put up the bunting in the High Street or decorate the stage, it was no surprise that a band of willing volunteers made sure the Street was decked in a manner befitting the festivities.
Glen Cavers sang the Rose of Allandale in his own exemplary manner and was followed by the Langholm Junior Pipe Band who played a medley of tunes, including the favourite Highland Cathedral. It’s good to know the band looks like it has a bright future, judging by those on show.
After the interval, Chris Stewart toasted the Cornet, recalling tales from yesteryear, including when Henry wanted to open a baker’s and when they went out dressed like the worst boy band ever.
After Henry became the kirk organist, he could often be heard on Saturday night saying he couldn’t stay out because he had kirk in the morning, something Chris said never bothered the Rev Scott McCarthy.
The Cornet replied and echoed the tales told by his great friend. He also wished all present a fantastic week ahead.
There were more songs by Billy – Hame o Mine, Nicky – A’ the Airts and Glen with Annie Laurie.
The musical proceedings ended with the front three’s Wee Bit Toon but not before the Toon Ban’ roused the audience with toe-tapping, table-bashing Common Riding tunes to stir the blood and whet the appetite for the week ahead in a style only they can produce.
David Patterson, club chairman, thanked David Pool for his excellent hosting and thanked the women for their preparation of the banna and cheese.
The event rounded off with the traditional Auld Lang Syne before the toon ban’ provided musical accompaniment for the polka and other dances.