I was fortunate enough to be on the top table for the annual HIT Scotland industry dinner at the Glasgow Hilton last Thursday evening.
The evening was, as ever, a great success with more than £30,000 raised for the charitable trust and Neil Thomson, from the Federation of Chefs Scotland, a deserving winner of the industry award - recognising his 45 years in hospitality education.
I am reliably informed that there is always a good atmosphere at the do - 550 Scots and plentiful wine tends to see to that - but one can't help but wonder if events over in Florence may have added an extra sense of bonhomie to the occasion.
Yes, Glasgow Rangers' nail biting penalty shoot-out victory over Italian side Fiorentina in the semi-final of the UEFA Cup meant it was smiles all round (apologies to the Celtic contingent).
The sight of 40 or 50 guys and gals in dinner suits and ballgowns (and the obligatory kilts) crowding round a small television behind the Hilton's business desk is one that will stay with me. As will the ensuing jubilant celebrations.
Thanks to David Cochrane and Stephen Carter of HIT Scotland for their hospitality.
