The Haill Six Incorporated Trades of Kirkcudbright held their 593rd Annual General Meeting in the Tolbooth on Friday night. A good turnout of members saw Lesley Garbutt make history by becoming the Deacon of the Shoemakers Incorporation.
Lesley made headlines last year when she became the first woman to join the Trades in its 600 year history. Another first was a husband and wife joining together, the Reverend Graham Finch and his wife Louise were welcomed as members of the Tailors Incorporation.
In his Annual report, Deacon Convener Ian D Swan reflected on another highly successful and enjoyable year for the Trades. The friendship and cooperation with York Cordwainers and Irvine Trades continues to flourish and members enjoyed reciprocal visits to the respective organizations over the year.
The Trades continue to play a large part in the activities in the town. In October 2016, the Kirkin’ o the Deacon Convener took place in the Parisk Kirk with a large turnout of members and friends. November saw the Trades pay their respects to the fallen at the Remembrance Sunday Parade in the town.The Deacon Convener stated that he is proud to lay the wreath at the Memorial on behalf of the Trades.The Annual Burns Supper attracted a record number of members and friends who were treated to an evening in the company of two of Scotland’s top speakers and wits, Jane Brown and Len Murray.
The summer months saw the Trades participate in the Kirkin’ of the Cornet and his Lass, the riding of the Marches and Maggie’s Tours, the street theatre. The Deacon Convener was proud to report that in this year’s vehicle parade, the Trades had won a trophy for best overall lorry.
The Deacon Convener made special mention of Boxmaster, Derek Collins who was at his first Trades meeting since being involved in an horrific accident several weeks ago.
Office Bearers were returned by acclimation. Deacon Convener Ian D Swan, General Clerk, A.C. Henry, Boxmaster, Derek Collins, General Officer, Ian McIntyre.
