The Surfers have been thinking about traditional Christmases in the past. We remember starting Christmas with Church Services before midnight with family and friends then home to mulled wine and mince pies. Children were put to bed to wait for Santa causing a very early rise to open the presents.

We always had a Christmas Stocking hanging from the mantelpiece which contained a tangerine, an apple, a bar of chocolate or a sugar mouse, a coin and a small toy. Because our parents did not have a lot of money we got one main present usually hand made and we were delighted with that.

Way back then Christmas Day was not a holiday in Scotland we tended have a big family gathering at New Year. The Christmas dinner was therefore served when Fathers came home from work. The meal started with soup followed by turkey with all the trimmings and the grand finale was a cloutie dumpling (recipe available on our website) with ‘runny’ custard. There was never room for anything else!

Our Christmases were a time for fun and laughter, in our own homes and visiting neighbours with our toys and good wishes. Things are different nowadays - but we maintain the traditions.

We would like to wish everyone in the Gorgie/Dalry area and our friends on the Web - A Very Happy Christmas and our Warmest Wishes for a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year!