Riding high: Borders towns unveil Principals ahead of summer of festivities
Last updated 21st Apr 2023
The countdown to a summer of festivities is underway in the Borders.
Galashiels, Kelso and Peebles last night (Friday) appointed Principals to represent their towns at this year's Borders Common Ridings.
Emma Spence takes on a lead role in the Braw Lads' Gathering after being unveiled as the 2023 Braw Lass.
The 23-year-old former Caddonfoot Primary and Galashiels Academy pupil told Greatest Hits Radio it's been a "life-long dream".
"It's unreal," she said. "I can remember dancing with the Braw Lad and Lass when I was in Primary 7 and it's just great to be standing here.
"It was a great return last year after Covid, so I'm looking forward to another big successful year."
The self-employed agricultural contractor is also a keen horse rider and has followed the festivities on horseback.
She added: "I'm normally riding somewhere in the back, or helping out marshalling, so it's going to be amazing to be up front."
Emma will be joined by Cory Paterson, who was named this year's Braw Lad.
The 21-year-old project worker, who is employed by Scottish Borders Council, attended Balmoral Primary and Galashiels Academy, and is also a member of the town's amateur operatics society.
When asked how it feels to be taking centre stage following his introduction by new Braw Lads' Gathering President Bruce Hastie, from the balcony of the Burgh Chambers, he replied: "It feels absolutely incredible.
"I'm so honoured to represent the town of Galashiels all throughout the Borders this summer.
"I loved watching all the horses riding up Scott Street when I was younger, so it's a privilege and honour to be doing it as the Braw Lad."
Meanwhile, crowds also turned out in Kelso last night to watch Andrew Thomson be unveiled as this year's Kelso Laddie.
The 22-year-old, who works for Darren Paxton Plumbing and Heating, will be supported by his Right Hand Man Callum Davidson and Left Hand Man Mark Henderson.
This year’s Lady Bussers are Mia Aldred and Paige Nairn from Broomlands Primary School and Skye Ayton and Lily Currie from Edenside Primary School.
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And, in Peebles, Robert Girdwood was unveiled as Cornet Elect. He'll be supported by his Lass, Ailidh Copeland.
2021 Tweeddale Citizen of the Year, John Falla, will take on the role as Warden of Neidpath Other appointments include: Warden of the Cross Kirk - Malcolm Jefferson; Proclaimer of the Beltane Fair - Caitlin O’Donnell; and Crowning Lady - Nancy Fenton.
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