CULROSS HOGMANAY 2011 TORCHLIGHT PROCESSION

The one hundred and fifty Torchlights sold out rapidly and local businesses were inundated for more.  The weather was seasonally pleasant; the crowd was buoyant, a festival mood prevailed and all were raring to go by 11pm as they congregated at Culross Abbey Manse for mulled wine  - courtesy of the local Minister (Jayne Scott) and The Red Lion Inn (David Alexander) - good cheer and an opportunity to celebrate this unique event that evolved from a wish by CCC (Culross Community Council) to simply do something different for the community on Hogmanay.  Inclusivity, informality and public safety were paramount:  having a grand old time was the ultimate goal.

Led by exuberant Pipers (David and Cameron Boggon) and followed by proud local youths carrying an effigy on their sturdy shoulders, an amazing number of 200 plus revellers – many of whom had made a cracking effort to don elegant face masks and/or party dress - departed the Manse with torchlights ablaze, joy in their hearts and an astonishing community spirit.  Doors opened to greet the procession as it made its way slowly down the 17^th century cobbled streets, stopping briefly at the Mercat Cross to re-group under the twinkling stars high above the Village which is often referred to as the jewel in Fife’s crown.  There were certainly a few ‘diamond geezers’ present!

The cavalcade continued to snake its way around St Stephen’s Memorial Hall with a few spending a poignant moment to offer a toast to the former home and memory of ‘Uncle David’ (Garlick) who himself loved a good parade.  Gathering momentum and fuelled with inner elation (amongst others things) , torches were raised in salute as the pageant passed the Post Office and the famous Red Lion Inn whose owners were pivotal in supporting this grand community event.  The excitement grew as the procession made its way along Low Causeway and others joined the throng  as it proudly perambulated past the Village Green before meandering alongside West Green prior to assembling outside Culross Town House, where additional ‘first footers’ swelled the procession to approximately 250 revellers.

On the stroke of midnight the Bells of the Town House were eagerly pealed by passionate children as their elders enthusiastically hailed in the New Year.  To the echoes of the Pipes, a poignant rendition of Auld Lang Syne and fervent hugging and hand-shaking beneath an overhead fireworks display that illuminated the pan tile roofs of the 17^th Century houses, The Royal Burgh of Culross celebrated its entry into 2012 in a community spirit second to none.

Will there be a repeat performance next or subsequent years?  CCC (Culross Community Councillors) would welcome your feedback on this or any other community event either in person, or, by e-mailing your views to culrossccc@yahooo.co.uk

George J Connelly MBE