PEEBLES Cornet Finlay Barber has agreed to take no further part in any of the Border festivals after being charged with the alleged abduction and rape of a teenager, it has been announced.

That means he will not be involved in the Lauder Common Riding this weekend.

Barber, 28, of Kingsmuir Crescent, Peebles, is accused of attacking an 18-year-old woman at T in the Park - the country's biggest music festival - in Balado, Perth and Kinross, on July 11 or 12.

He made no plea or declaration when he appeared on petition in connection with the charges in front of Sheriff Michael Fletcher at Perth Sheriff Court on Friday.

His case was continued for further examination and he was released on bail with the additional bail condition that he does not approach the alleged victim.

Barber was installed as Cornet during the Beltane Festival Week - a week long series of events to celebrate the history of the town - in June. And he was expected to represent the town at a number of festivals across the Borders.

But, speaking after his court appearance this week, David Turnbull, secretary of the Beltane Festival Committee, said: "The Cornet has agreed with the committee that it would not be appropriate for him to continue his official duties until the matter is resolved." Nevertheless, he added: "It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."