CADDONFOOT
Church
It has been a busy time at Caddonfoot Church over the festive period. The joint Christmas Eve watchnight service with Trinity was led by the Reverend Marion Dodd. Beadle George Wells rang the bell to bring in Christmas Day, the 50th occasion he had performed that task. The Advent candles were lit and the lessons read by Jo Lawson and Anne Grieve, while Atholl Innes told the story of the “Light of the World”. There was a retiring collection for the Lavender Touch, a charity supporting people with cancer in the Borders. On the previous Sunday, CY (Caddonfoot Youth) staged its nativity play led by Trina Bird and Claire Macfarlane. It was a ‘live’ occasion with baby Jesus a real Leah Decoteau, from Clovenfords, while mum Julie looked on. Mrs Bird also read the gospel lesson. The service was followed with sherry, mince pies, tea and coffee. Last Sunday, the Reverend Dodd conducted the service of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Earlston
Women’s Group
The meeting on January 9 is in the church hall, starting at 8pm. Speaker is Donald McPhillamy from the Earlston Orchard Project.
Hawick
Rotary
President Scott Elliot welcomed 37 members, partners and guests to the Christmas night. After a festive meal, Bobby Cairns introduced the various artistes who he had invited/persuaded to entertain the company. Billy McWatters then performed a couple of tricks with a humorous commentary, and was followed by Ina Cairns reciting a hilarious poem, “The 12 Days of Turkey.” She was then joined by Betty Oliver and Dorothy Shiels in seasonal songs. Gus Neilson recounted his entertaining version of a “Politically-correct Christmas”, followed by Jane Bannerman singing – with great speed and humour – the “Nightmare Song” from Iolanthe. The company then sang “We Three Kings”, featuring powerful solos from Scott Elliot, Gus Neilson and Jack Swanston, before Pat Sutherland, following her hilarious story of “The Messiah”, as seen through the eyes of a Dumfriesshire shepherd,brought the evening to a close with “Mary’s Boy Child.” All the artistes were accompanied on piano by Rosalyn Walker. Vice-president Sandy Bannerman accorded all the performers a hearty vote of thanks, before the president Scott brought the evening to a close.
Walkerburn
Service
The next service in Walkerburn Public Hall will be on January 19 at 10am.
Yarrowford
WRI
Members enjoyed a Christmas meal at Borders College served by students. The next meeting will be a talk by Fairtrade Selkirk on January 14 in the hall. Competitions – three pieces of cherry shortbread and a favourite side plate.