Published: Wednesday, 30th June, 2010 10:49am

Rain fails to dampen spirits at Lindean rideout

Braw Lad Greg Borthwick and Braw Lass Katie Scott were all smiles on the rideout to Lindean on Monday night.

"THE history of the parish of Galashiels starts here."

Reverend Leslie Steele made the statement as Braw Lad Greg Borthwick laid a wreath at the Preacher's Cross in the Auld Kirkyard at Lindean on Monday night.

It marked the beginning of a week of festivities to celebrate the town's history, known as the Braw Lads' Gathering, which will culminate with the Gala Day on Saturday.

More than 160 mounted riders turned out to show their support for this year's Principals during the rideout. And, despite being caught in a shower during their visit, the rain failed to put a dampener on the occasion.

Conducting the service during a short break in the cloud, Rev Steele, of Old Parish and St Paul's Church, said: "This Preacher's Cross here was erected in 1939, the last year before the war, to commemorate the link between Galashiels and Lindean. And it's a link that goes back a long time.

"The history of the parish of Galashiels starts here with the thoughts and intentions of David the First of Scotland and so it is that we return to it at the beginning of Braw Lads' Week in celebration and remembrance."

Just 24 hours earlier scores of supporters soaked up the sun at the Braw Lads' Sports. And, with the fancy dress and rideout to Torwoodlee tonight (Wednesday), organisers of what is undoubtedly one of the biggest events in the town's social calendar will hope it stays dry for the rest of the week.

The full programme for the remainder of the 2010 Braw Lads' Gathering is as follows: Wednesday, June 30 - Ceremonial Ride to Torwoodlee. Leave Currie Road at 6pm. Ceremony at Torwoodlee at 6.45pm. Arrive back in town centre at 8.15pm.Fancy Dress Parade in Scott Park at 6.45pm. Parade at 7.30pm. Carnival Dance in the Volunteer Hall, from 10pm until late. Tickets on sale at door on night.

Thursday, July 1 - Civic Reception for Overseas Guests in the Volunteer Hall at 7pm. Anyone who has visitors coming from outwith the UK to stay during the Braw Lads' Gathering celebrations should contact Hazel Newlands on 01896 750669.

Friday, July 2 - Investiture Reception in the Volunteer Hall from 7.30pm until 9.30pm. Music by Slainte Mhath.

Saturday, July 3 - Morning Ceremonial Ride: 8am - Braw Lad receives Burgh Flag; 8.40am - Raid Stane Ceremony; 9am - Fording Tweed at Abbotsford; 9.45am - Fording Tweed at Boleside; 10am - Gallop over Gala Hill; 10.30am - Old Town Cross Ceremony; 11am - Visit Laird of Gala at Old Gala House; 11.30am - Gallop up Scott Street; 12 noon - Final Act of Homage before Burgh Flag is returned to the President of the Gathering.

Beating the Retreat from Bank Street Brae to War Memorial - 7.50pm; Roses Ceremony at War Memorial - 8pm. Ex-Braw Lads' & Lasses' Association Final Fling in the Volunteer Hall, from 9pm to 1am. Music by The Relics. Tickets £7.

Sunday, July 4 - Service at Gala Aisle (weather permitting) at 6.30pm.

Order a copy of next week's Border Telegraph for full coverage of the Braw Lads' Gathering 2010.