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Newsletter January 2004

Bliadhna mhath ùr dhuibh uile... Happy New Year to one and all

Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn

The Council have for some time been searching for an appropriate way to commemorate the life of Ann S. Castle, former Treasurer, and previously Secretary for many years of the Society. Ann was survived by Cliff; between them, they were the Gaelic Society of London. Many avenues were explored, but the Council has found in Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn the most fitting way of marking her selfless dedication.

Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn (The Gaelic Society of London Prize) is being
established for an outstanding contribution to the furtherance of the Gaelic language and culture. Because of its considerable significance, this honour will only be awarded when the Council is convinced that work of considerable merit has been carried out.

Alison Kinnaird MBE was commissioned to create a fitting trophy for this
prestigious prize. The piece in blue, green and opaque glass, depicts a boat carrying the Gaelic tradition through the rough waves of the world. Alison has chosen motifs such as the Celtic cross, representing religion and architecture. As you will see she has incorporated the Society's motto in this unique piece. Alison has an international reputation as a glass engraver, and her latest work will be exhibited at the forthcoming Psalmsong exhibition at the Victoria and Albert museum in London. In addition to her engraved glass panels, Alison has composed accompanying clarsach music. Many will remember Alison's last visit to the Society for Gaelic Day 2002.

The first recipient of Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn will be Malkie MacLean.
Malkie is the director of the Gaelic Arts Agency, Proiseact nan Ealan and the driving force behind Leabhar Mòr na Gàidhlig, (The Great Book of Gaidhlig). The book, in addition to being sold in that format is a travelling exhibition in its own right. The exhibition has to date visited Glasgow, New York and is currently in Edinburgh. Do not miss the only opportunity to see this piece of artwork, which will be on display throughout the evening.

This special event will form the highlight of an
unforgettable evening for the Society.The prize will be presented at the Burns Supper, Saturday 24th January 2004 at St Columbas, Pont Street, Knightsbridge. Tickets are available at Visit Scotland Cockspur Street, London OR from Tommy MacAskill (tel) 020 7828 8978.

Council member Honoured
The Society's congratulations go to Archie Cameron who was awarded the CBE
in the New Year's Honours List. Archie who hails from Argyle, is Director of Operations in the Fees and Allowances Department of the House of Commons.

Harry Nicol at the Royal Opera House
The star of our forthcoming Burns evening will be appearing in the role of Major
Domo in Richard Strauss's Der Rosen Kavalier at the Royal Opera House on April 13; 19; 22; 24; 27; 30. For a fraction of the price and with fine cuisine included, why not come and see him at our Burns Supper on the 24th?

POSH Burns Supper in Knightsbridge
In addition to the finest quality Haggis, tatties 'n neeps we are offering
vegetarian starters and Haggis (organic meat free). We have Stornoway Black Pudding and hot smoked salmon from South Uist. There will also be a complimentary malt whisky toast. Harry Nicol will entertain us with Burns songs, accompanied by Alasdair Nicholson on piano. Bill Innes will pilot us through the evening's proceedings ably supported by Tommy's toast to the lasses and Helen Nicholson's reply ( rumour has it that coaching has come from Germaine Greer). So expect sparks to fly ! Tickets, Ģ30, must be purchased by 17th January.

Future functions

Gaelic Love Songs from Roddy Campbell of Barra, 14th February
St Columbas, Knightsbridge

Oidhche Seann Nos (evening of traditional song) from Mary Smith of Lewis
, 3rd April, Crown Court, Covent Garden

Details from Tommy MacAskill 020 7828 8978

The Gaelic Bill - London Meeting 8th December
In a letter from the Chief Executive of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Allan Campbell praised the Society for organising the meeting on the 8th of December. The meeting
attracted the largest attendance of the entire consultation process. Allan enthused " it is most heartening to find that the Gaels in London are maintaining their honourable tradition of such robust support for the language and culture". Thank you all for attending and for your  useful scrutiny of the draft bill.

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