Published: Tuesday, 23rd June, 2009 12:16pm

Queen heads to Lauder

FOR the first time in its long and proud history a reigning Monarch will visit Thirlestane Castle.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh will visit the Castle near Lauder next Thursday, July 2.

And the local community is invited to turn out to show their support.

To celebrate this significant occasion Lauderdale Community Council has arranged with the support of the Lord Lieutenant The Hon. Gerald Maitland-Carew and Thirlestane Trustees, for a Lauder Community Picnic to be held from 11.30am.

The Hon.Gerald Maitland-Carew said: 'This is indeed a special occasion for all associated with the Castle. We have worked closely with Scottish Borders Council whose Convenor Alasdair Hutton will host a Reception in the Castle on behalf of the Council."

The "Bring Your Own Picnic" event will be supported by light refreshments and entertainment.

"This will be a very special day for Lauder"s Nicola Pringle", said Community Councillor Graeme Donald. "Nicola is a senior member of the Church Sunday Club and Lauder Primary School "s Citizen of the Year 2009.

"Nicola will present The Queen with a posie of flowers in the Lauder colours. Many people in the Town have co-operated with the Community Council in planning a warm welcome for Her Majesty who last visited Lauder on the occasion of Her Golden jubilee and The Royal Burgh"s Quincentenary celebrations in 2002."