Haddington Twinning Association Bulletin Board

6th July 2020 – Irene Higgenbotham – photos.

The dates of all photos are unknown, so its a guessing game.

Provost Richardson & Mr. Frank Elliot from Haddington Twinning.

Peter MacNamee leading pipe band in Fetes Franco Ecossaise in Aubigny 14th July.

Going forward to Twinning vists 1984 – 1987

The Clydesdale horse was a wonderful sight working in and around East Lothian up until the 1950/60s, they were used in agriculture and logging as well as driving.

The Clydesdale was originally bred for heavy farm and industrial work, although its open hooves were better suited to city work than narrow arable furrows. It is noted for its high stepping, showy action, which makes it one of the most elegant heavy horses.

The Clydesdale stands on average 16.2hh, although some animals are taller. It has a long straight nose, big ears and a well-arched long neck. Its well defined withers and short back makes it a powerful workhorse. Quarters should be long, thighs strong, hocks broad and clean. The legs should be well endowed with fin silky feather. The colour is bay, brown or black with much white on the face and legs, often running into the body to give a roan appearance. Chestnuts are rarely seen.

Clydesdale History. The Clydesdale breed was founded in the early 1800’s when 2 breeders, John Paterson of Lochlyoch and the 6th Duke of Hamilton, imported Flemish stallions and bred them with native draught mares in the Clyde Valley.

At its peak, Scotland had around 140,000 farm horses plus an unknown number in towns and cities., most of which were Clydesdales …….. The breed was also exported to many countries. As with other draught breeds, numbers dwindled with the increased use of mechanical power.

Now we can only romanticise over these past times by admiring these beautiful and exquisite animals, ……. we are lucky in Haddington to see a few still on our door-step.

Photos – Irene Higgenbotham .

Photographs taken on 15th June 2020 – Irene Higgenbotham.

It is with sadness I am writing to inform you that Mr Brian Young, a member and supporter of Haddington Twinning Association has passed away. Brian and his wife Alison [ pictured above on a visit to Aubigny 2015 ] have taken part in many Twinning activities over the years including several visits to Aubigny and hosting friends from Aubigny during visits to Haddington .

We send our condolences to Alison and her family.

Photo – Irene Higgenbotham – Aubigny 2015

Haste ye back !

Gilles Charbonnier introduces Jacques Baranger in his own inimitable way entertains his audience with great fun and laughter. Bravo Jacques !

Haste ye back – Jacques !!!

Madame Isabel Vivet , President Jumelage Aubigny says a few words of thanks.

Madame Martine Mallet & Provost John MacMillan exchange a few words of thanks.

Presentation of Gifts – Provost John MacMillan – Madame Martine Mallet – Mr. Gordon Boyd – and gentleman ?

Madame Martine Mallet & Provost John MacMillan saying final words.

Auld Lang Syne. !!!!!

Farewell Scotland.

All photographs with thanks Christian Couture. [ Aubigny ] 2019