When I first became a member of the Mother Club I considered being admitted to be one of the greatest honours of my life. Since then, the welcome, kindness and friendship that I have experienced has been remarkable. When I joined the Mother Club it was because I had had a lifelong love of the works of Burns, which I loved reciting and I wanted to learn more about him. Over the past seven years I have been able to do that and to those of you out there who are considering joining us please know that you too will get the warmest of welcomes, camaraderie and some great nights out.

To take on the role of President is something that never occurred to me in my wildest dreams and I find it humbling and terrifying in equal measure.

I am, however, sustained by the knowledge that we have a magnificent board of Trustees to help me navigate the next twelve months. In doing this, I will be guided by the principles of the man whose name it is our purpose to cherish. Humanity and a belief in the dignity of us all.

I’m also proud that Greenock Burns Club is a registered charity (Scottish Charity SCO50627). Our work with our Box O’ Burns dementia project and our Primary and Secondary Schools competitions encourages young people in Inverclyde and Renfrewshire to learn and develop a love for the poetry, songs and music of Robert Burns and this continues to go from strength to strength. The amazing talent of these young people is also seen in our unique Schools Burns Supper, which is a highlight of the Burns Calendar.

Please come along and enjoy our events. I look forward to meeting you at as many as you can attend.

John McEvoy
President  

For a’ that an a’ that
It’s coming yet for a’ that,
That man to man, the world o’er,
Shall brithers be for a’ that