IT all began as just an alternative event during the foot and mouth equine restrictions of 2001.

Some 16 years on, the Melrose Community Bike Ride is now an integral part of the town's Festival celebrations.

This year the Festival Committee even decided to appoint three new Lead Cyclist roles.

Leading the hundreds of cyclists out of Gibson Park were the inaugural Principals, Angus Mollart, Ben Henderson and Orla Lynch.

And behind them were hundreds of cyclists of all ages, including the 2017 Melrosian Russell Mackay along with his Right-Hand Man, Struan Hutchison, and Left-Hand Man, Donald Crawford.

The popular bike ride, which is between five and six miles long, takes in the Market Square, the Chain Bridge, Gattonside, Lowood Bridge, Darnick and High Cross Avenue.

Sweltering heat provided a stiff test for the riders - some as young as just two or three years old.

But they were all rewarded with a finishing-line family barbecue at the Annay Road rugby pitch.

Melrose Festival Chairman Michael Crawford said: "We were delighted with how many people supported the Community Bike Ride this year.

"Our three Lead Cyclists, Orla, Angus and Ben, did a great job."