I first heard of Runrig when i was at Glasgow Vet School in the 80s, and a friend played Recovery to me. I missed out on seeing them at the Uni gigs, so the first time I got to see them live was about 27 years ago when they turned up in Blackburn. I took my disabled mum, who was always game for something new, and thought that Scottish folk rock sounded like it might be interesting. We were both blown away, and Bruce’s warm, beautiful voice worked perfectly with the music i had known from my days in Glasgow. We caught every tour from then.
Book of Golden Stories was played at mum’s funeral.
Three years later, Running to the Light was played at my wedding. My husband and I saw the band as many times as we could make, including that truly wonderful Last Dance.
Throughout every concert we saw, Bruce’s warmth and showmanship, and his love for the audience shone as bright as any light on the stage. It was obvious to anyone watching that all of the band loved what they were doing, and enjoyed doing it together.
I’m more upset by Bruce’s passing than i think i have ever been by the loss of a celebrity. I feel like i’ve lost a friend, who has been singing to me throughout my adult life. I can’t begin to imagine the loss that is felt by his family and friends. Thank you, all of you, for allowing us to share just a little bit if time with Bruce over the years. It has been a wonderful privilege.