A RECORD number of entrants took part in the fancy dress parade which launched this year’s Langlee Carnival – despite torrential rain threatening to put a dampener on the occasion.

Primary seven pupils Nathan Yule and Keira Vicentini led the festivities on Saturday after being unveiled as Langlee Lad and Lass earlier this year. 

The Carnival got underway with a fancy dress competition at the school – judged by the Braw Lad and Lass, Cameron Pate and Abbie Frankland - and parade to the community centre.

As well as all the usual fun and games, including quad bikes and hamster balls, this year’s event included the first bouncy disco in Scotland. 

There were also performances from the Ward School of Irish Dancers, Langlee Choir and Galashiels Town Band. 

And Langlee’s Got Talent winner Eve Marshall, who dressed up as a tiger, performed Katy Perry song Roar - in sign language. 

Reflecting on the day, Heidi Wilson, joint-chairperson of Langlee Carnival’s organising committee, told the Border Telegraph: “Despite experiencing the worst weather we’ve ever had on Carnival day we’ve had the best turnout for the fancy dress since it was revived nine years ago. The Irish dancers and Langlee choir are always a big hit whatever the weather.”

And she added: “This year’s Lad and Lass have done Langlee proud. They were both superb and both looked very smart.”

Although two brothers have been Langlee Lad before, this year was the first time two sisters have held the leading role. 

Nathan’s mum Charley said: “It’s been brilliant, he’s been dead excited. We didn’t have anything like this when I was young and it’s a good turnout, even though it’s raining. I didn’t think it would still be on but I’m very proud. Seeing him in his kilt, I was crying all the way along the road.”

And Nathan’s grandad Mark added: “Langlee sometimes gets a bad name but on days like today you see the best side of it.”

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