Stirling Brig Commemoration 2011

STIRLING BRIDGE COMMEMORATION 2011

On the 9th September 2011, prior to the commemoration of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, Society members attended the launch of Konstantina Ritsou’s new book, “The Boy and the Well of Memory”, a novel about Andrew de Moray.

A member for some years now, Dina spoke about the reasons for writing the book. Readings were performed by Neil Lochiel, Dina & author Sarah Crome.

Kate Smith, Gordon Aitken & Frank Boyd performed a few numbers to set the mood.

Later that evening, Dina joined the marchers at Stirling Castle esplanade, ready for the march to the old bridge. A great turn-out waving saltires & banners began winding its way down the hill, led by Alloa & Bowmar Pipe Band.

Arriving at the commemorative tree, the audience were welcomed by organiser, Ted Christopher, who also gave us a song. Wreaths were then laid by the Andrew de Moray Project & the Society of William Wallace, our wreath being laid by Neil Lochiel. We then had one minute’s silence, ended with a lament from a lone piper.

Our first speaker was Provost of Stirling, Fergus Wood, who announced the project to erect a statue in memory of William Wallace & Andrew de Moray near to where we stood. Stirling Council have started off the fund by pledging £10,000.

Our next speaker was the Convenor of the Andrew de Moray Project, Rob Gibson, MSP. Rob spoke about the fact that Moray had been largely ignored throughout history, & their group’s aims to rectify this.

We then had a presentation from Arthur Murdoch, of the Strathleven Artisans, a stone memorial plaque to remember our late Convenor, David R. Ross. This will be installed below the commemorative tree.

Our last Speaker was Duncan Fenton, Convenor of the Society of William Wallace, who drew a parallel between the bravery shown by the Scots at Stirling Brig, & the courage shown today by those who struggle to regain our ancient freedom.

Ted then gave us “Scots Wha Hae”, with everyone joining in. He then thanked everyone for coming.

The evening’s entertainment at the rugby club was provided by Ted & his band, Bannockburn, & Scocha. Gordon, Kate & Frank also did a couple of numbers.

It was a great day in all, with everybody having a terrific time with old friends.

We'd like to thank Linda Howe, Gordon Aitken and Duncan for the photos, thanks guys.