The Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) Scottish region celebrated in style on 24 January, with over 200 members and suppliers attending a Burns supper at Glasgow’s Trades Hall.

With sponsors including Stonemarket, Alumasc, IKO and Polypipe, the sell-out event was the first Burns supper the BMF has held in a number of years. During the evening, the BMF’s Scottish regional chairman, Craig Miller from MKM Builders’ Merchants, handed over the role to Fred Craig from Jordanhill Garden Supplies. Mr Miller has been regional chairman for two years.

To celebrate Burns Night and the life of poet Robert Burns, the formal programme included recitals of poems ‘Tam O’Shanter’, ‘Tarbolten Lassies’ and ‘Mauchline Belles’, carried out by Donald Kay, as well as an entertaining Immortal Memory toast, carried out by Allan Bartlett.

Speaking at the event, BMF managing director John Newcomb said: “Thank you to all our members from north and south of the border for supporting the event. This is the first in four years, and something we hope to become an annual event.”

Following the formal dinner, attendees were able to join in with a traditional Scottish ceilidh dance. A raffle was also held on behalf of the Rainy Day Trust (RDT). Prizes included a four-ball golf day, a Kindle Fire, £100 of Love 2 Shop vouchers and a Fortnum & Mason hamper. The raffle raised over £1,800 for the RDT.