GALASHIELS and Selkirk came together once again on Friday for the traditional Spurs Night celebrations.

Braw Lad Greg Kelly and Braw Lass Kimberley O’May were on hand to greet Selkirk Standard Bearer Peter Forrest, for the first ride out on the towns’ calendars which begins at Galafoot and proceeds to Galashiels town centre.

And Galaleans and Souters lined the streets to spur the riders on.

President of the Braw Lads’ Gathering Bill White told the Border Telegraph: “It was my first Spurs Night and I think everybody had a great time.

“There were 88 horses and it was great to see some of the younger riders riding around the town. It was a great starter for them.

“Spurs Night strengthens the bond between Galashiels and Selkirk and there was some great camaraderie.

“I thought the social side of it went really well and there were some great speeches made at the dinner.

“Everything went without a hitch.”

In a change to this year’s proceedings, there was no river crossing, but as usual, the mounted cavalcade was led up Tweed Road where the riders were met by the Galashiels Ex-Service Pipe Band.

And on arrival in Galashiels, the Principals received a Stirrup Cup from Gala YM RFC, before the ride continued around the town centre.

Jake Wheelans, Provost of Selkirk, said: “It was a successful night. We had lovely weather and a great dinner at the British Legion.

“The Braw Lad, the Braw Lass and the Standard Bearer seemed to mix really well and got on very well.

“That’s the first one done now, so now we’re getting very busy and everyone is looking forward to the Common Riding.”

This Friday will see the second ride out of the Braw Lads’ Gathering as Greg and Kimberley travel to Threepwood to meet Lauder Cornet Chris Rogerson.