MPs AND MSPs BACK EFFORTS TO CELEBRATE TANNAHILL

- Wendy lays motion to celebrate Paisley’s son –

Paisley’s MPs and MSPs are backing efforts to celebrate Paisley’s Tannahill’s bicentenary. 2010 is the 200th anniversary of Robert Tannahill’s death. Tannahill, affectionately nicknamed ‘Paisley’s son’ made a huge contribution to Scotland’s cultural heritage. His poetry and music made such a mark on Paisley that in 1883 a series of concerts were held in Gleniffer Braes and the money that was raised paid for a statue of him that now stands proudly on Abbey Close. David Mullen, a buddy, musician and fan of Tannahill is now working very hard to organise events for next year in honour of Tannahill’s lifework.

David said:

“I am making every effort to ensure that next year’s Robert Tannahill bicentenary is a fitting and successful tribute. I consider it is important that more people are aware of ‘Paisley’s son’ and the contribution he made to Scotland’s cultural heritage.”

“With the bicentenary of his death next year, it is my aim to promote his work as much as possible, by giving talks and also encouraging musicians, history and poetry groups to hold events to mark the occasion.”

Events currently planned include a concert in Canada and illustrated live talks which David will present in Renfrewshire. This Saturday at 2pm David will be doing an interview on Celtic Music Radio talking about the life and works of Robert Tannahill. The programmes will also feature recordings of his songs.

Local MSP Wendy Alexander is in full support of David’s preparation to honour Tannahill next year and believes that the people of Renfrewshire would love to join in the upcoming celebrations. She has kicked off the preparations with a motion in the Scottish Parliament.

Wendy said:

“I think it is a wonderful idea to celebrate the life of Robert Tannahill on his bicentenary. I am delighted with all the hard work David is doing to prepare for this. That’s why I am laying a motion in the Scottish Parliament for this. The influence that Tannahill’s poetry and music has had, should be recognised as an all Scotland affair not just a Paisley affair.”