Selkirk OnLine
Billy's a real personality
By Mark Inchley
Local personality and storyteller Billy Stark proved a popular choice for the 2007 James Oliver Memorial Award, presented at the Selkirk Merchants Company winter function.
Billy Stark became the seventh local personality to be awarded the James Oliver Memorial Award when he was presented with the shield at the Selkirk Merchant Company's Winter Function on Friday evening.
Over 70 guests turned out for the masked Halloween-themed party at the rugby club and all joined in a hearty applause when Billy was named as this year's recipient of the award, in recognition of his contribution to the community.
Over the years, Billy has become a well-known and much-loved local legend for his unique story-telling talents. He has also made a name for himself on the horticultural scene, being a regular contributor and frequent winner at local flower and vegetable shows. He said: "Being given the award was a very humbling experience. I would never have thought I'd be given something like this and it's a real honour to see my name on the shield along with those that are already there."
The shield is presented annually by Isobel Oliver in memory of her late husband, Jim, an ex-standard bearer and former Master of the Merchant Company. Previous winners include Ella Phaup, Stewart Roberts, Jim Newlands, Bill Laing, John Smail and, last year, Fiona Scott.
Billy was also presented with a certificate by standard bearer Alistair Pattullo at the ceremony on Friday. "What made it really special was receiving it from Isobel who I've know a long time," continued the 74-year-old Souter. "And her mum was my primary teacher. "I've always lived in Selkirk and I've had a lot of good experiences here, so it's hard to pick out any particular highlights. "But I never expected to get an award like this. The certificate's in pride of place on my wall at home now."
The Winter Function was a huge success with many entering into the spirit of the theme, sporting a range of extravagant masks. Music was provided by Gus Oliver, with Shona Grieve's buffet and Alan Seal's bar keeping guests fuelled for the evening's dancing. Selkirk Merchant Company Master Andrew Proudfoot said: "The function went very well and the choice of Billy as the recipient of the James Oliver Memorial Award was greeted with a long ovation. "The award is given to a personality who has contributed greatly to the community in and around Selkirk, and Billy's a well-known character and story-teller and is very popular in the area. "He was very happy to receive the award and during the evening delighted everyone with his version of Tam O' Shanter, delivered in his own inimitable style. "The whole evening was enjoyed by all and thanks are due to everyone involved in the organisation and running of the event."
Selkirk Online is very grateful to Susan Windram and her team at the Selkirk Weekend Advertiser for supporting the site by providing this news item.