GLORIOUS sunshine heralded the start of this year's Melrose Festival.

And Melrosian Russell Mackay couldn't be any happier with his first few days in office.

On Sunday the 21-year-old farmer commenced his duties with the annual Wreath Laying ceremony at the War Memorial.

And a short time later he led former Melrosians from down the years into Melrose Parish Church for his Inauguration and the Kirkin' Service.

Gifts were presented and hymns were sung.

With civic expectation and tradition comes fun and community at Melrose, and it wasn't long before the brogues were swapped for football boots as players of all ages took part in the Sunday afternoon Football Festival.

On Monday supporters from across the region descended on the town as Melrosian Mackay's led his mounted cavalcade around the ancient boundaries.

There was around 220 riders, including many Principals from other Border towns, who followed the Melrose Principals.

And many hundreds lined the scenic route to offer their cheers and waves.

From the town the riders meandered their way to the lower slopes of the Eildons and down to Newstead.

The often rapid Tweed was serene as the cavalcade forded at Millmount.

And the gallop up Gattonside Heights was a delight beneath the blue skies.

Pipes and cheers welcomed the returning procession up the High Street and into the Market Square.

Melrosian Mackay told us: "It couldn't have gone any better - the weather has been great and the turn out for everything has been amazing.

"The Church Service was packed and it seemed like the whole of Melrose was at the football on Sunday afternoon."

Melrosian Mackay admitted on his appointment back in January that his priority was learning to ride.

With Hawick and Selkirk common ridings already under his belt, he led Monday's Melrosians' Rideout with authority.

Russell added: "I was a little nervous before Monday's rideout but once I got in the saddle I was fine.

"Being at the front with Struan (Right-Hand Man Struan Hutchison) and Donald (Left-Hand Man Donald Crawford) meant we could take off up Gattonside Heights after we'd crossed the Tweed.

"It was an amazing view from the top of Gattonside Heights as we waited for everyone to catch up.

"The whole rideout was amazing and the reception back in the town was unbelievable."

Melrose Festival continued last (Tuesday) night with the annual Fancy Dress Parade.

Tonight's Community Cycle Ride is followed tomorrow by the Installation of Melrosian Mackay and Crowning of Festival Queen Ilona Cockburn within the confides of the Abbey.

Friday's Melrosian Ball is followed by Saturday's Tour of Ceremonies, Festival Sports and Festival Dinner.

Don't miss next week's Border Telegraph for full colourful coverage of the Melrose Festival.