As is mentioned elsewhere in the website the BPBC has changed enormously in the constitution of its membership over the last 67 years. In our early days the membership would see each other whilst they went about their daily activities such as going to their work at the pit or perhaps out walking in the town. Nowadays our membership are far flung to say the least and we are having to make greater use of technology to ensure that everyone is aware of what is going on within the club. As a club we have enjoyed huge benefit from having such able club secretaries as the current incumbent Tom Hopton and previously Jim Ewan who kept us on the straight and narrow through the use of pen and paper and of course the telephone. As you will see elsewhere in the website correspondence with Tom will continue as before so for all you technophobes out there you will still be able to talk to someone should you wish to.
The website will provide us with the opportunity to interact with the world wide Burns movement and with the forthcoming 250th birth of Burns anniversary celebrations this is doubly important.

Our 2007 Burns supper was a great night and it was a privilege to lead our club in its annual celebration of the birth of Burns. To stand in front of the membership and their guests and be able to call forward members to sing and recite such a wide variety of the works of Burns is such an honour. Add to this the musical support of Michael Philp and Paul Clancy and the three toasts given by ; Alistair Deas, Steven Garmory and Stuart Abercrombie all of whom are members of the club. However the best thing about the night was the way in which all who attended conducted themselves, giving ‘Bowhill order’ to the artistes and singing the chorus songs in the manner of a troop of Russian Cossacks as they were once described by Norman McCaig. For those who missed the event there is a video of proceedings available for £7 plus p&p through our club treasurer David J Mac Donald. (see committee page for email address -Ed) Might I make a plea at this point to all who have an interest in Burns or Scottish musical and literary heritage, why not come to our monthly meetings there is always room for more to join in the harmony. Don’t worry if your party piece is not Burns, after all former president Hugh Docherty sang the Anniversary Waltz as his inaugural item and look what he went on to achieve in the club. (those who wish to join us, even to try one evening without any presssure, please contact us - Ed).......Best wishes ........Bob Garmory