The three days of events celebrating both our thirtieth Anniversary of the Society together with our International Gathering was as invigorating as it was fulfilling. Over the period the turnout overall was well over 100 with representatives from Australia, Germany, Greece and Israel.

A full programme was organised commencing on Friday 24th August with an historical tour of Eskdale visiting Westerkirk Church, Library, Cemetery and a picnic lunch at Westerhall.

Eskdale, Westerkirk Church

 

The touring party visiting the library

 

On return a large barbeque was held at Ardtalla, prepared by Sandy Paisley.

BBQ at Ardtalla

 

Clan Paisley Society 30th Anniversary Dinner

On Saturday 25th the formal dinner was held at the Stirling Highland Hotel when several presentations were made, speeches and the significant occasion of the unveiling and presentation of the Armorial Banner to Sandy Paisley.

Clan Paisley Society 30th Anniversary Dinner

 

Gathered for Dinner in the Stirling Highland Hotel Maclaren Suite

 

The Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea congratulating Mr Sandy Paisley on successfully petitioning for Armorial bearings.

 

The Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea describing the Armorial Banner of Mr Sandy Paisley.

 

The Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea thanking his piper Mr Walter Williamson for his services.

 

Clan Paisley Society Chairman Mr John K. Paisley 

 

Sunday 26th was Paisley Day, commencing with our participation in the regular service at Paisley Abbey.

Clan Paisley and Service at Paisley Abbey

 

This culminated in the blessing by the Rev Alan Birse of the heraldic banners of Westerlea and Sandy Paisley (who was recently granted Arms by the Court of The Lord Lyon) following which the armigers and banner bearers joined the recessional exiting the Abbey.

 

The finale was a fabulous Civic Reception and three course lunch, hosted by the Provost Lorraine Cameron and Renfrewshire Council in the magnificent location of the Paisley Town Hall.

Provost Lorraine Cameron with The Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea, Lady Westerlea and members of the Clan Paisley Family Society.

 

There were many speeches and a generous gift by Baillie Alastair Paisley of a silver collar chain of the Order of Ancient Free Gardeners to Westerlea for inclusion in our Museum collection. The conclusion of this splendid event was the unexpected unveiling of a small portrait of Westerlea by Guy Clark, the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire. The artist was Max Scotto, member and friend of the Westerleas who assisted in the unveiling.

Mr Guy Clark, the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, artist Max Scotto and the Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea

 

Provost Lorraine Cameron with the Much Hon. Duncan W. Paisley of Westerlea, Lady Westerlea and Clan Paisley Society members pictured outside Paisley Town Hall.

 

After formal photographs most members returned to Ardtalla, joining many friends to celebrate Westerlea’s birthday.

 

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