A PACKED congregation at Caddonfoot Parish Church, decorated beautifully for the special occasion, gave a 'Braw’ start to another Gathering Week on Sunday at the annual Kirkin’ service.

Braw Lad Gavin Young and Braw Lass Alice Mackay, whose sister Nicola was Braw Lass two years ago, were joined by fellow-Principals, Daniel Whitehead, Ryan Mania, Lucy Black and Nicola herself.

The Principals were led into the church by the Rev Elspeth Harley, making her debut at the service after taking over the charge, linked with Trinity, in January.

The congregation sang 'Braw Braw Lads’ and were joined by, among others, President Andrew Johnston, chairman David Houston, vice-chairman Jodie Millar, Clerk Hazel Newlands, members of the Executive Council, parents of the Principals, Life Members and friends.

Past President Gordon Keddie recited 'The Braw Lads’ Day’ while another Past President, Johnny Gray, recited 'Ganderscleuch Gathering’ by George Hope Tait – Ganderscleuch being another name for Galashiels.

Mr Johnston read the Bible from Mark’s Gospel while church members, Julie Decoteau (Peter) and Bill Birch (Jesus), had a chat on the theme 'Of Mouths and Money.’ At the end of the service, at which the music was played by Derek Calder, the Braw Lad and Lass were presented with Bibles and a scroll each, from the church, to mark the occasion. The congregation then enjoyed tea, coffee, juice, biscuits and cake to round off a lovely morning.

On Monday night, Duncan McCosh, Rector at St Peter’s Church in Galashiels, conducted a service at the Auld Kirk Lindean as the Braw Lad, Gavin Young, laid a wreath at the Preacher’s Cross.

A total of 148 mounted supporters took part in the rideout - including 2012 Braw Lass Nicola Mackay, despite dislocating her knee during an incident with a hairdrier following Selkirk Common Riding.

Nicola is determined to follow his sister, Alice, on the Gala day. It is the first time two siblings have served as Principals in the same term of office.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph following the sun-kissed rideout, Braw Lads’ Gathering chairman David Houston said: “It was a great start to the week, historical occasion in a fantastic setting, loads of horses, we couldn’t have asked for any more.” “All we want is for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Gathering.” The winners of the Lindean Chase were as follows: Principals Race - Grand National winner Ryan Mania; Ex Principals Race - Chris MacKenzie; Pony Race - Aiden McDonald; Ladies Race - Becky Johnston; Over 45s - Nick Mill; Gents Race - Greg MacDougall (Selkirk Standard Bearer).

The timetable for the rest of the week is as follows - Wednesday, June 25: The Ceremonial Ride to Torwoodlee leaves the car park at Netherdale at 5.45pm and travels via Dale Street, Huddersfield Street, arriving at Paton Street at 6pm and by way of Bank Street, High Street, Bridge Place, Magdala Terrace and Edinburgh Road to Torwoodlee. Return to meet band at Wilderhaugh at 7.30pm and arrive at town centre at 8.15pm.

Meanwhile, the fancy dress parade leaves Scott Park at 7.30pm and proceeds along Scott Street, Hall Street and Bank Street. Judging gets underway at 6.45pm.

The Carnival Dance will be held in the Volunteer Hall from 10pm until late. Tickets, priced £5 per person will be on sale at the door.

Thursday, June 26: The Civic Reception for Overseas Guests will be held in the Volunteer Hall. Anyone who has visitors coming from outwith the UK to stay with them during the Braw Lads’ Gathering celebrations are invited to contact Hazel Newlands on 01896 750669 for more details.

Friday, June 27: The Investiture Concert will be held in the Volunteer Hall from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Music by George Inglis. Tickets, priced £3, at door.

Saturday, June 28 - Morning Ceremonial Ride: Cavalcade assembles at Netherdale, 7.30am; Braw Lad receives Burgh Flag at Burgh Chambers, 8am; Raid Stane Ceremony, 8.40am; Fording the Tweed at Abbotsford, 9am; Visit Abbotsford House, 9.15am; Fording Tweed at Boleside, 9.45am; Gallop over Gala Hill, 10am; Old Town Cross Ceremony, 10.30am; Visit Laird of Gala at Old Gala House, 11am; Gallop up Scott Street, 11.30am; Final Act of Homage at War Memorial, 12noon.

If the horses are unable to cross the River Tweed the cavalcade will proceed along Abbotsford Road and Galafoot Bridge and on to Abbotsford, while the Principals will go down Tweed Road and on to Abbotsford, before rejoining the cavalcade at Faldonside.

Langlee Community Choir will perform at the War Memorial at 7.45pm, with the Roses Ceremony following at 8pm.

Sunday, June 29: The Service at Gala Aisle will be held at 6.30pm (weather permitting).