Burns statue was erected in the Gardens in the 1890s. The cost was funded from money raised by concerts given by the Tannahill Choir (1884 - 95) which took place on the Gleniffer Braes. The statue is located next to the fountain and is reputed to be the finest Burns statue in Britain.
The event will also give you the opportunity to have a look at the newly restored fountain.
The Fountain, which was bequeathed to the townspeople by the Coats Family in 1868, has lain in a dilapidated state for many years. It is one of the world’s finest examples of cast iron sculpture. Its unique design is a Victorian extravaganza that includes walruses, cherubs, dolphins, herons and crocodiles and which measures 8.5 metres in height, has the same circumference and weighs 42 tonnes – before the water is added.
Its recent restoration, costing £650,000 was funded by Historic Scotland, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Renfrewshire Council.
Meet between the statue and the fountain at 1230-1330 for a quick toast with a non-alcoholic drink (sadly, due to Byelaws Prohibiting the Consumption of Alcohol in Designated Public Places 2009, we can’t have Whisky) and some of Mrs Bs homemade tablet. A chance for a blether to geopals old and new and to swap trackables.
Please log your ‘will attend’ so as not to miss out on any announcements.
Plenty of on-street parking surrounding the park.
The first cacher to recite a verse or two from Tam O’Shanter will be awarded the FTF.