ORGANISERS of the Great Haggis Hunt in Selkirk have confirmed a record catch on Sunday as the event celebrated its tenth anniversary.

More than 200 haggii were caught during the annual Burns celebrations on Selkirk Hill.

Families from across the Borders enjoyed the puddin pilgrimage from the town’s Market Square before hunting down the illusive creatures.

Dave Scott from the organising committee told us: “The weather conditions have led to a bumper crop of haggii on the hill and most hunters filled their nets this year.

"There won't be many hungry families in Selkirk this year.

“We would like to thank everyone who comes along to support the Great Haggis Hunt as well as all of the sponsors who make it possible.”

Whisky was the toast of the day as Towns Arms host Louise Stephen raised a glass to honour the haggis before around 300 hunters departed the town centre.

The traditional Haggis Polka was danced outside the Argus Centre with accompaniment from Riddell Fiddles.

And then, armed with baggy nets swords, and skiendus hunters of all ages were let loose on the haggis breeding grounds of Selkirk Hill.

Jimmy Linton, who is a co-founder of the Great Haggis Hunt, said: “I have never seen so many haggii on the hill.

“We didn’t take an official count but we think there was well over 200 caught during the morning.

“The Great Haggis Hunt gets bigger each year and it’s a joy to see so many youngsters taking up the sport.”

Another founder of the Great Haggis Hunt, Bob Burgess, died last year.

And filling his shoes for the customary Address to the Haggis at the Chinese Hut on completion of the hunt was his son, Matthew.

The Galashiels actor said: “When I was asked to take my father’s role I jumped at the chance.

“It’s a great honour for me as I know how much my dad enjoyed the Great Haggis Hunt.”