Fifty years ago when Barbara Smith’s love of music prompted her to become a founder member of the then newly formed Strathaven Choral Society, she could never have imagined herself with a spade in Strathaven Park, ceremonially planting our commemorative Golden Jubilee birch tree.
We were keen to celebrate our big anniversary with a permanent, living and growing symbol of Strathaven Choral Society’s place at the heart of the community so working with South Lanarkshire Council’s Parks team, a special spot for our tree was found and, of course we had to ask Barbara to wield the spade.
Some of our singers took time out of concert preparations to mark the event and lend a hand with the spade before enjoying hot drinks, mincemeat pies and even the odd roll and square sausage.
Now it’s off to take it easy before tomorrow’s sell out* Christmas Concert.
* I have heard that there might be a few returns – if you’re quick. https://www.wegottickets.com/event/561084