HE’S been the voice of the Braw Lads’ Gathering for 30 years.

Last week Jim Amos was honoured for his three decades of town crier service to the festival.

And as Mr Amos stepped down from the position he has held since 1986 he handed over the scroll to Alaistar Waddell during a ceremony held in the Burgh Chambers.

David Romanis, President of the Braw Lads’ Gathering, said: “Jim Amos has given many years of excellent service to the Braw Lads’ Gathering.

“He is a really genuine and dependable person who always gives of his best and has been a tremendous help to me in my first year as President.

“I would like to congratulate Alaistar Waddell on his appointment.

“The town crier has a prominent role to play on Braw Lads’ Day and I am sure Alastair will step up to the plate. I look forward to working with him in his new role.” Galashiels born and bred, Mr Amos was previously an attendant at the Braw Lads’ Gathering in 1969, and went on to become chairman of the Ex-Braw Lads and Lasses Association in 1975 and 1976.

He also served on the Braw Lads’ Executive Council but is best known for his 30 years as town crier.

Mr Waddell is a well-known face in the community, as a stalwart of the town’s Amateur Operatic Society and regular performer at the Galashiels Burns Club.

All four Galashiels councillors, along with Council Leader David Parker and Council Convener Graham Garvie, presented Mr Amos with a Reiver sculpture to mark his retiral from the town crier role.

Councillor Aitchison said: “Jim Amos has provided a sterling service to the Braw Lads’ Gathering in the last 30 years and will be a hard act to follow.

“We will now hear the voice of Alaistar Waddell as town crier and I wish him good luck in his new role.” The Braw Lads’ Executive Council and Ex-Braw Lads’ and Lasses Association also presented Mr Amos with a framed picture.