Dumfries’ Guid Nychburris celebrations have brought back sweet memories for Lochduhar Care Home resident, Moira McLaughlin.
Next Saturday will be her 98th birthday and it is also 70 years since she was crowned Queen of the South.
The honour on her 18th birthday on June 26, 1952, is something that she has cherished all her life and she was thrilled to share some of her memories of that special time with current Guid Nychburris’ principals.
Members of both the Queen of the South and the Cornet’s entourage popped in to say hello and Moira was especially pleased to meet this year’s Queen, Kady Kirkpatrick, who presented her with a lovely photograph of her 1952 crowning.
They, in turn, were delighted that Moira had chosen to wear, for the occasion, the velvet cloak and sash that she had worn as Queen of the South 70 years ago.
During her time as Queen, Moira remembers attending many functions and enjoyed visits to places around the town.
She revealed that her favourite visits were always to the schools and her love of children foretold her career as a primary school teacher.
The Guid Nychburris visit was also enjoyed by Moira’s family and the other residents and staff at Lochduhar who cheered and waved flags to give the official party’s a warm welcome.
They revealed their own fond memories of Guid Nychburris of yesteryear.
Gillian Ward, general manager at the care home, said: “We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Lochduhar. It was so nice to see how happy Moira and her family were when they were sharing their special memories. Some of our other residents and staff loved being a part of this occasion as well.”
