A large group of 40 Shrigley Old Boys,spouses and others gathered at the Bonne Auberge restaurant in Glasgow on Saturday 1st February to celebrate the 90th birthday of Fr Robert Coupe SDB, and to mark that of Bro Donald MacDonald SDB, whose his illness sadly prevented him from joining us. It was particularly gratifying to see that several Scottish old boys now living in England had come along, even our adopted Scotsman, Joe Lomax.

Tony Quinn led the tributes Fr Bob who was 90 on 8th January, and to Bro Donald, whose 90th birthday was on the day of the celebration. Tony also paid tribute to Fr Michael Winstanley who was present, and presented engraved quaichs for all three Salesians, noting their continual support to the Old Boys in Scotland over many years.

The splendid meal was followed by lively entertainment, compered brilliantly by Martin McArthur. There were poems, recitals, individual and communal singing. Of particular note was the rendition of "Panis Angelicus" by the doyen of the association, Joe Lomax. Although we gathered at 5.00pm, midnight came too soon.

Special thanks were offered to Joe and Tricia Doogan for organising such a memorable celebration.

A Mass was said on the Sunday in the Parish of St John Bosco, Easterhouse, with Fr Michael and Fr Bob concelebrating with Fr Jim Thomson, the local parish priest. This was followed by a hearty buffet organised by Tricia and assisted by the co-operators of the parish.

A great time was had by all.

As many of you will know, Br Donald MacDonald SDB died on Wednesday 5 February, just a few days after his 90th birthday. May he rest in peace.