At our Tellin' Stories Open Day at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, Robin Harper MSP provided a unique introduction using mime and humour to express his pleasure in attending. Robin, a former teacher with an interest in drama, praised the work of BSA Scotland and our magazine 'Blether', saying "every page has a WOW factor". The confidence, charisma and humour displayed by Kelly Brown, Scottish rugby professional who stammers, also inspired the audience of children, young people, parents and professionals. Kelly made everyone smile in advising young people to make sure they choose a girl or boyfriend whose name they can say! In addition to these 'well kent' faces, we heard stories from skateboarding Cian, James who works for an MSP in the Parliament and Lynne, who at 16 transfixed us with her determination and wisdom, saying "don't hold back because the more you speak the easier it gets". The rest of the programme offered an exciting mix of art and drama workshops for children and young people who stammer. It also provided an opportunity for participants from the 2007 Summer 'Scool to catch up and mark the changes since last year (a good few inches in height at least!) Robin Harper kindly treated participants to a tour of the Scottish Parliament at the end of the day. Attendance, at around 50, was lower than anticipated, perhaps due to the Scottish petrol crisis and fine weather, but all who attended were enriched by sharing diverse perspectives in an informal and supportive atmosphere.

Kelly Brown, and Robin Harper MSP. Kelly Brown, Robin Harper, BSAS Committee members, l-r, James Stewart, Claire Pirnie, John Mann, and Jan Anderson Children and young people enjoy the cartoon workshop.