Tapestry and talks

A splendid day!

I made it at last to ‘The Great Tapestry of Scotland’.

We called in at Galashiels this morning on our way to Melrose. Very impressed with this wonderful piece of work stitched by many, many people across Scotland. We missed it as it toured around, but have enjoyed seeing it now in its new, and permanent, home. A splendid light and airy space . . . and great cafe.

We continued on and checked into the Dryburgh Abbey Hotel and then set out for Melrose and the Borders Book Festival.


Just for the record :

I went to the Walter Scott Prize shortlist readings and presentation of the prize. Excellent session with five of the authors reading from their books. ‘The Land in Winter’ was the winner - a worthy winner. And I also got to meet, have my book signed, and chat to Ferdia Lennon, the author of my favourite book - Glorious Exploits. (The missing author was at the Winner Announcement for the Women’s Prize evening in London - she won that! Good thing she wasn’t stuck in Melrose!)

Then - Kirsty Wark and Sally Magnusson in conversation - fabulous! What a pair - much beloved of the full to capacity audience.

Meanwhile G went to hear Robert Cowen talk about his book The North Road which he is reading at the moment and then Robin Ince - no idea what he was talking about - I don’t think he does even now.

Then we met up to see Michael Palin - another full to capacity audience and a brilliant evening.

We are now in the hotel lounge with a drink - soon for bed. More tomorrow!