Ham visit ..

[McClef]

Although I do not particularly care for any of them, I just need one of the Manx tartans now to complete my 'set' of Celtic nations kilts.

I had forgotten about the Manx ones! But the Breton will come first!

I agree, but I needed to see an actual sample before ordering as most of the Tartan Finders on line show rather dull-looking versions of it. I was suitably impressed and so went ahead. No, Trefor, I intended going for an 8 yarder but, after much deliberating, settled on a 5 yarder. The price difference was considerable and I was somewhat put off by the fact that when it came to the measuring, only two were taken - waist and length. I asked about the hip/seat measurement and was told that they never take that one! When I insisted that mine be noted, I was told that it really was not necessary - it was taken all the same! It was at that point that I changed my mind and opted for 5 yards. I just have slight nagging doubts about how it will turn out!! My two years old Brithwe Dewi Sant was an off-the-peg casual in polyester, perfect for the warmer weather, but I wanted something better for the Edwards. We shall see!

Yes the difference in price is considerable, although they have recently reduced the price of 8 yarders by around £50 - typically after I had bought my St David's! I bought my 5 yard Roberts first and although it's lighter and the pleats are shallower is very comfortable and looks good. I wore it formally on a couple of evenings at dinner when in Scotland and got loads of compliments. Yes it seems strange they only ask for the 2 measurements but despite that both my cilts fit well on me so I hope the Edwards does on you too. Perhaps there is some secret Welsh formula for calculating the hip/seat from the two!

I saw that they had a special offer on those and was tempted but then I asked myself when would I wear it - I get precious little wear out of my regular Prince Charlie and GT Doublet as it is. So I did not go down that road.

I will do my best to find suitable occasions to wear mine, certainly I will at next year's St David's day parade and at any dinners or weddings I attend in Wales!