IT was up wi’ the Souters o’ Selkirk on Friday, as they awoke early to begin the festivities of the Common Riding - a day loaded with history, tradition and plenty of excitement for the thousands who descended on the ancient streets.

The special day kicked off for Kieran Riddle, Royal Burgh Standard Bearer 2017, when he was presented with the Burgh Flag high up on the balcony of the Victoria Hall and prepared to take it on its journey around the borders of the town on Friday’s Hail Smilin’ Morn.

The downpours of the nicht afore the morn and the ominous clouds at dawn did nothing to dampen the spirits of the town.

And their brightness persisted as the sun began to shine.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph, Honorary Provost Jake Wheelans was amongst the first to pay tribute to his town and his Standard Bearer He said: “This year has been excellent.

“The sun came out, and Kieran Riddle performed fantastically as Standard Bearer.

He did a great job casting the flag, and he returned it unsullied and untarnished.

“It’s been a brilliant morning.”

At 7am, Riddle humbly began to lead the procession of 292 horses along the High Street, closely followed by his trusty and leal Attendants Peter Forrest, Sam Coltherd, Robbie Reilly and Thomas Willmott.

The quartet, who in the not to distant future will get their day with the Burgh Flag, supported him through his duties for the entire morning in true Souter style.

The riding of the Marches wasn’t without a few tumbles and falls along the way, but the riders remained in good spirits and it was difficult to spot anyone without a smile on their face as they headed ‘Oot’ across the Ettrick River, up the Linglie Glen, and on to the summit of the Three Brethren.

The arrival at the Toll was its usual dramatic spectacle, with crowds cheering and waving as the horses and riders galloped back into the town.

First to arrive safely was Standard Bearer Riddle, with his four Attendants by his side and the rest of the procession in close pursuit.

A highlight of the day for many, excitement buzzed amongst spectators and riders alike, and roars of “Hooray!” rang in the air.

Soon after the last rider was deemed ‘Safe In’, the drums began to beat once more and the crowds marched to the Market Place for the Casting of the Colours ceremony, where Standard Bearer Riddle and the Standard Bearers of the six crafts and organisations proudly took to the podium.

Elegantly casting their flags with thousands of people watching on, emotions ran high as the morning drew to a close.

Reflecting on an experience he will never forget, Standard Bearer Riddle told us: “The whole day has been amazing - I’m still trying to take it all in.

“It’s been everything I hoped it would be and more.

“I managed to get two hours sleep last night, and I’m sure it’s all going to catch up with me. But this has been a great day.”