Freens o Reid Harlaw Wallace 700
Association Parade & Commemoration Service
2012
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Saturday
28th July 2012 saw the Aberdeen City Tartan week begin with a
parade of massed pipe bands down Union Street with a Salute
taken outside the Town House by Lord Provost George
Adam.
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Once again,
the Wallace 700 Association with Freen John Mackay taking a
leading
Albert Thomson wears MacThomas
role in the organisation, managed to muster a sizeable number
of kilted members supported by representatives of Medieval
Realm and the Freens o Reid Harlaw.
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The hope
was that the association would endeavour to get 100 different
tartans out on the day. This did not have to be full
kilts as trews, skirts or sashes would
suffice.
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In 2011 53
different tartans were evident. In 2012 Clan MacThomas was
visible when Linda and Albert Thomson took part in the
parade.
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Following a
stirring march the length of Union Street to the applause and
cheers of large crowds the parade ended in King Street
allowing a number of those present to stop off at the new
statue of Robert the
Bruce in front of Marischal College. Thereafter everyone made
their way to Union Terrace for the service to commemorate the
life of Sir William Wallace, Guardian of
Scotland.
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Before the
service the crowd was treated to a selection of music by young
pipers and Kintore Pipe Band.
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The
commemoration service was convened by The Very Reverend Emsley
Nimmo with the Wallace Address provided by Reverend Dr. Henry
Sefton.
The service
included Yvonne Morten singing “Freedom Come Aa Ye” and a
wonderful selection of music from George Davidson of Tarves
the National Junior winner of the Robert Burns World
Federation of Schools competition.
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The
dedication was given by Reverend Stephen Taylor of the Mither
Kirk o St Nicholas.
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Unfortunately, the day which started out sunny
and warm turned wet with heavy showers during the
service. However, the day proved to be most enjoyable
and I hope that Clan MacThomas can be even more visible next
year.
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Albert
Thomson.
Please click here to find out more about the Wallace 700
Association.
