The Incorporation of Dundee Hammerman Dinner took place at the Woodlands Hotel, Broughty Ferry, Friday 24thMarch 2023. Like previous dinners, it was a lively affair with almost 70 attendees. All of the Nine trades and the Three were represented.
Members and guests were welcomed by Hammerman Deacon Alastair McIntosh who introduced to the top table, including the guest speakers.
After a superb meal, Deacon Alastair introduced Dr Nina Baker, Deacon of the Incorporation of the Hammerman of Glasgow, who provided the toast to the City of Dundee. In her lead up to the toast, Dr.Nina emphasised the need for Dundee to continue its roll in the development of Scottish engineering whether it be in traditional areas or in more modern opportunities. She continued the theme by highlighting the support from local Universities and colleges and the growing influence of women in industry with demand for well-educated engineers increasing. A case of history repeating itself from the hey days of the Dundee Jute era where skilled women were of necessity.
The reply from came from Dundee’s Lord Provost , Bill Campbell , who thanked Nina for her words. Bill captivated the audience with an insight into the daily life of the Lord Provost ,from putting people in touch with one and other, through to mixing with royalty. He is to attend the coronation of King Charles, having attended the funeral of Her Majesty the Queen. Never one to forget his past, The Lord Provost was in good spirits with a few Paisley Buddies present on several tables.
In leading up to the toast to the Hammermen of Dundee, Deacon Steve Flack, of the Dyers gave an entertaining account of the importance and influence of the Hammermen to the City of Dundee over a period of 500 years. He was able to highlight the citation of various characters within the Hammerman fraternity and others and their doings , when brought to book by the powers of the day.
Deacon Alastair thanked Deacon Steve for his in-depth history portrayal of some notorious characters within the city. He then moved to current times highlighting what the Hammermen team were about, including continuing charitable work and also support at various Educational establishments.
Finishing on an upbeat note He was able to inform all that over £800 had been raised on the Night for Braw Tea a new community venture, which aims to provide a café service on Castle Green, Broughty Ferry, whilst training vulnerable ladies who may find it difficult to obtain work in catering. The Hammermen would increase that raised on the night to £1000.
The Deacon Convener of the Nine Trades, Ray Edwards, gave a concise and uplifting report on the work of the Nine both during Covid and post Pandemic Whilst the major source of funds was diminished due to reduced student fee income from the residential properties. This has been redressed with income on the up and providing optimism for the future.
A surprise to Past Deacon Convener Iain Murray, Ray went onto to present him with his well-earned Medal of Office
The formalities over, the Gathering were entertained by stories from Bill Leckie, Scottish Journalist and Author. Born in Glasgow and brought up in Paisley, Bill regaled all with stories from his days in his locality and his experiences and encounters in journalism. enjoyed by his appreciative listeners. During his 20-minute stint, laughter abounded thanks to a combination of Bill’s wit and delivery.
To finish and having Caught his breath Past Deacon Hamish Thomson then gave the Vote of Thanks
As the dinner came to an end many of the trade’s members and guests. were drawn to the bar to conclude what was a memorable evening.
Many thanks to the staff of the Woodlands Hotel, speakers, members and guests for making the Annual Dinner a success.