Statement from the Provost of the Selkirk Common Riding Trust Keith Miller.

This Friday night (24th April) we would normally be congregated in our Ancient Market Place to welcome our Royal Burgh Standard Bearer for 2020.
As we are all well aware, these are not normal times, so the Honours Board in the Town Hall will have to be annotated;
2020 - No Appointment.
As far as I know, I am the first Provost to preside over the complete cancellation of a Common Riding, so this terrible virus has done something even two World Wars couldn't do.
Putting sentiment aside and taking a common sense point of view, the decision was easy. There was no alternative.
Given what is going on around us and throughout the World, Selkirk Common Riding pales into insignificance.
Having said that though, on 12th June it will be missed, not only in Oor Wee Toon but also by Exiles around the World - some of whom would have had plans to be here.
I hope they can all amend their plans and make 2021 a Bumper Year for Returning Exiles.
During this lockdown it has been wonderful to see the number of volunteers helping the Selkirk Response Team. This Team must have made a huge difference to the quality of life of people self isolating.
"It's up wi' the Souters o' Selkirk
For they are baith Trusty and Leal"
These words are so true!
The Selkirk Marches have been ridden every year since 1535, and Selkirk Common Riding Trust aim to make sure that it does happen this year. As soon as it is safe to do so, we will make arrangements, but as in 2001 (Foot and Mouth) it will not be notified beforehand and there will be very few riders.
Personally, I would also hope that later in the year we will be able to have some sort of Gathering, with our three bands turning out to play Oor Auld Tunes.
This, however, is dependent on restrictions being largely removed, so it is not even in the planning stages yet.
In the meantime, please keep to the rules.
Stay at home, Stay safe, Stay strong.
With Best Wishes to All
Keith Miller (Provost)