Four small steps for Hanwell, one giant ceilidh for GoodGym-kind

Food service started with Gymeroo running 2 servings of haggis to a nearby elderly couple. Meanwhile, back at Burns Central, the rest of the FoodGym crew were pouring shots and preparing desserts.

As the Address to the Haggis approached, the FoodGymers handed out shots of whisky, prepared their serving plates and put their dancing shoes on. Once the appreciation of the haggis had been voiced and the haggis sliced open, it was time to start taking orders. "Meaty or veggie?" echoed around the hall with answers noted down. When Gymeroo tried to deliver the orders, they found - as always - that people had changed their minds and their plates had to be redirected to other bellies.

Second helpings were served and devoured, followed by the cranachan, lovingly created by FoodGym hands. Cherian and Madhan had added the first layer of oats and syrup, while Chris had spent what seemed like hours whipping up cream for Kash to layer on top of the oats. Finally, Steph Ducat and Kash topped the dish with raspberries and then, it was ready to serve.

As the time came for FoodGym and Gymeroo to put their feet up, GoodShym-ie arrived. Traditionally at this point in the night, tables are removed and some vaguely Scottish ceilidh dancing ensues. This year however, the ceilidh caller (the person who describes the steps) injured themselves earlier in the day. Our own true Scots woman, Chris McCosh, bravely stepped up, took the mic and tried to explain to people who were 3 beers/proseccos down how to Strip the Willow 💃. Sevan and Kash, who were beer-free and had some ceilidh experience were asked to step up and demo too, while Cherian, Madhan and Steph looked on either amused or confused.

After all the excitement and action, all that was left to do was to nibble snacks and wait for the clean up operation to begin.