LANARK LANIMER DAY
An ancient celebration held within the Royal Burgh of Lanark on the Thursday between the Sixth and Twelfth days of June annually since the year 1140.
 

Reflections of a Sponsor

Time has brought changes in Lanimer Day Processions as in everything else and, let's face it, if this were not so, would Lanark be the popular place it is on that special day in June ? Over the years the simple, decorated horse-drawn lorry has been superseded by the sophisticated productions made possible by the use of the tractor as a means of pushing as well as pulling a construction. "Putting out a Lorry" has become "Sponsoring a Tableau or a Pageant".

Early in the year the question arises, "Will we? Won't we?". If the answer is "Yes", we have to find a theme, and the solution to the problem of linking Pageant, Tableau and Reception item only emerges after much discussion producing some grandiose ideas which are soon cut down to size by the craftsman's decision as to what is practicable. The Tableau is the focal point of the Pageant and for its construction we are dependent on the joiner who, besides his practical skill, needs the ingenuity of a Heath Robinson and the patience of Job. Having found such a man we need a place for him to work, materials of many kinds and artistic friends to do the decor. Such is the Lanimer spirit, all are forthcoming. The time-honoured garments, reviving with their splashes of many coloured paint, memories of former failures and successes, are donned and the next few weeks bring their share of satisfaction, frustration and fun.

Meanwhile other matters are being decided, for though the Tableau is important, the children make the Pageant. Colour schemes are planned and costumes designed; the supply of patterns and materials is organised and here again we find the same co-operation emerging as Lanimer preparations gain impetus. Mothers, supported by grannies, aunties and helpful friends, tackle their job and eventually have the satisfaction of achieving those costumes which add so much colour and interest to the Procession and provide that spectacular setting for the Crowning of the Lanimer Queen.

Before this climax is reached, however, we have had to complete the construction of our Tableau. The farmer has pushed on with his seasonal work to make sure that the tractor is available when needed. The angle irons arc in place and the battens bolted on. The structure is heaved aloft and made secure. The side-capes with their decorated panels are attached, effectively concealing the wheels. The driver's window is camouflaged, we hope, while still enabling him to see where he is going. Belated inspirations having been accepted or more probably rejected, we are ready for the road. But last minute hitches are traditional and lead to scenes of frenzied activity such as on the memorable occasion when we despaired of reaching the main road, let alone the top of St. Leonard Street and only made our exit at considerable risk to property, life and limb on the part of certain well-known local gentlemen.

In homes all over the town children are being arrayed in their Lanimer attire. How to protect a fairy and her wings from 8 a.m. chill is a mother's problem; what to do with extra garments when the sun comes out is a sponsor's problem - one of them. The Tableau is in the appointed place; the children are grouped according to plan and the weariness of waiting becomes apparent. Kindly house-holders open their homes to provide much needed toilet facilities until at last, fortified by the occasional sweetie and controlled with alternating reproof and encouragement, we hear the bells ring out. The Procession is under way.

The Queen is crowned. The Lanimer medals are collected and we heave a sigh of relief - so far so good. But there is the Reception to come. After hours, days and weeks of training we have to accept that every soldier will not march in step, that the fairies may trip over their own feet and the animals will probably lose their heads when bowing to the Queen. Still, they look adorable; they do their best and after all, it is the Lanimers.

Once again we have made a contribution to the unique spectacle which is Lanark's Lanimer Day. To hesitant sponsors we would say "Have a go! There are problems, but they provide a challenge and the solving of them can be a very satisfying experience. There is co-operation from all kinds of people and from many sources. There are friendships, tried and not found wanting in testing circumstances, friendships which have sometimes culminated in a procession up the aisle to the sound of wedding bells. So, Youth and Beauty, have a go!"

G. J. McK.