WATCH: Electrician lights up Jedburgh on Festival Day
Last updated 11th Jul 2025
Electrician Lewis Turnbull lit up Jedburgh as he led a procession of more than a hundred horses and riders on a ceremonial ride round the boundaries of the Royal Burgh in one of the highlights of a week-long series of events celebrating its history.
"It was immense, I've never seen the street so busy," he told Greatest Hits Radio, as he reflected on the town's Festival Day.
Lewis was supported by Right Hand man Lewis Stewart and Left Hand man William Wardrop, and crowds of well-wishers turned out to show their support.
But he isn't the first in his family to be appointed Jethart Callant.
His Great Uncle William Sinton (1973); his Uncle Derek Sinton (1997); and cousin Ross Sinton (1999) have all flown the flag for Jedburgh.
Inspired by their example, Lewis first rode out with the Callants Festival in 2014, earned his Redeswire badge in 2016, and last followed on horseback in 2023.
"It's alright hearing stories but actually doing it is pretty special," he beamed.
The day began with Lewis sounding the battle cry "Jethart's Here!", after being presented with the town's flag in the shadow of Jedburgh Abbey.
And, in amongst all the excitement of the day, the town paused at the war memorial to remember its fallen, as well as family and friends, and local worthies, no longer with us.
WATCH: Click on the link below to view our video report...
When asked his standout moment, Lewis replied: "I thought it would have been here (at the start) - the Jethart's Here was special - but it was actually laying the wreath that got me.
"I've been struggling (emotionally) since then. But it was really good. If you look around it's been quite the occasion."
This year's event will go down as one of the hottest on record, according to local councillor Scott Hamilton, the deputy leader of Scottish Borders Council.
He added: "It doesn’t get any better than this!"
Former Herald Len Wyse agreed. "I'm going to be peeling my head! It is a huge spectacle, they're coming from all over, you can see from the colour of their rosettes.
"But, also, one of the riding schools run holidays and part of the holiday is coming to a rideout; so they're coming from all over the world (to see this), it's a good thing."
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