DEE-CIDERS WALKING GROUP

A GUID New Year to ane and a' from the Dee-ciders Walking Group. Like us a good time had by all but it's fine to get back into the swing of things , and let the belts feel easier round our middles.

Our walk on 16 December took us to the Shooting Greens. That also was the day of our Christmas Party at our local hostelry 'The Irvine Arms'. What a welcome you get there - always a treat. It was 'nae a bad day' for mid-December and it was a day when the mini-bus drivers get a change (we take our cars and some can partake of the amber bead.) A fine steady walk back in time for the festivities at 2 o'clock.

The Christmas party arrangements had been well rehearsed for at least a couple of months because we had a surprise for two of our regulars who had been 'down under' in Australia since the end of August. This was their first walk after returning home.

We had received a postcard with the words of 'Waltzing Matilda' on it and that gave us our idea. With a selection of hats of every description, we were ready to serenade the couple. At the cue of 'Skippy' on went our Ozzie hats - a coolie hat with fir cones; a felt cloche with fudge sweeties; a clown hat with red hair; straw hats with corks - they were all there. And our practice had made perfect with the song.

The only fly in the ointment was that the male part of the duo had developed shingles prior to leaving Australia and couldn't be present. It has taken its toll of him but thankfully he is eventually on the mend. We all wish him well.

To close on a cheerier note, we are available to warble 'Waltzing Matilda' at local functions, or, on second thoughts, maybe we could just pass the words on to you!

Jean Duff