Burns Night, the celebration to commemorate Scotland’s greatest poet, was marked in style at Baird Lodge, Hereward’s Extra Care Scheme in Ely.

Air Marshal Sir John Baird and Lady Baird were the chief guests as the traditional haggis was piped into the dining room.

Lady Baird recited the famous Address to a Haggis, written by Robert Burns and residents then enjoyed their meal followed by a “wee dram” of Scotland’s best known drink.

The ritual of Burns Night was started by a few close friends of his a few years after his death in 1796 as a tribute to his memory and the basic format for the evening has remained unchanged since that time.

Baird Lodge, named in honour of Sir John and Lady Baird, who live in Ely, was opened by the Duchess of Gloucester in October 1999.

Scheme Manager Debbie Bull arranged the Burns Night celebration and she said: “Everyone enjoyed themselves very much.”

Picture shows piper Roy Sloane flanked by Sir John and Lady Baird in the dining room with residents.