The introduction of the World John Lapraik Speaking Competition was announced by John Haining, President of the Robert Burns Worldwide Federation, during a visit to Muirkirk Primary School on Burns Day 2008. Also present at this event were Angus Middleton, President of the Ayrshire Feberation of Burns Clubs, Councillor Jim Roberts, Billy Sharp, Vice-President of Mauchline Burns Club and Douglas McKenzie of the New Cumnock Burns Club. Muirkirk Primary School was asked to pilot the Young Peoples Speaking Competition for this event.
