Thursday, 27 October 2011

Wilbert Magill - Ulster Scots Native Speaker.

Newtownards and the Ards Peninsula is a wonderful place!

Well, I am very proud of the fact that I was born in the 'Front Deed' (Wallace's Street N01) in the Movilla end of the town. My father was Blakely Anderson and a lifelong friend of Wilbert Magill.

Wilbert is a fine man and of great character, a writer & musician of note and one time local Politician and Mayor of Ards.

Wilbert has attended a number of events hosted by Loughries - he visited our Ulster Scots summer school, reading local poetry from his book Aboot Tha Airds, we also were blessed by his attendance at a couple of our Burns Night Suppers where Wilbert addressed the haggis in a wonderfully theatrically way. He also graced our guests with a number his poems. I recall having to wipe away tears of laughter as Wilbert had me and the audience in roars of laughter and of course we were in the grasp of his Wilbert’s hand – what a fine exponent of the Ulster Scots Tongue!

It is my understanding that Wilbert is unwell at present – I wish him well on his road to recovery.

It makes me intensely proud to know 3 great local Ulster Scots Speakers Wilbert Magill, Willie Cromie and of course Willie McAvoy!

Here are a few snaps from one of Loughries Burns Night Suppers.

Wilbert Magill's Aboot Tha Airds



Recent Loughries Burns Night Suppers with performers and invited guests


Piping in the Haggis - with Piper Stephen Rodgers


Wilbert preparing to address the Haggis


Wilbert in full flow!


Fabulous Champion Scottish Dancer Michelle Johnston


Packed Londonderry Room N'Ards Town Hall Celebrating Burns


Two local Ulster Scot characters Wilbert Magill and Willie McAvoy


HMA

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