SUNDAY'S Kirkin' o' the Cornet ceremony heralded the start of Lauder's busiest and best week of the year.

Cameron Mcneill began a journey over the seven days that will take him into the history books of this proud and ancient Burgh. And behind him every step of the way will be one of the strongest communities in the Borders.

Following the formalities and ceremonial duties of Sunday's Kirkin' Cornet Mcneill was whisked up to the public park for an afternoon of sporting fun.

So far this week he's also been involved in the Apprentice Ride, the Ex-Cornets Dinner and the Exiles Re-union. And the busy schedule will continue with tonight's Fancy Dress Parade and Dance. But for all of the week-long celebrations in Lauder, it will be Saturday's riding of the Burgh boundaries that will live longest with the 23-year-old landscape gardener.

Cameron said: "Saturday, August 3, is nearly upon us and this day is one I have dreamed of for as long as I can remember - the day I will proudly carry our standard around our common land as Cornet and Standard Bearer for the Royal and Ancient Burgh of Lauder." Thousands will descend on the ancient town throughout Saturday morning to witness the historic festivities.

And almost as many will take to the town's streets tonight for all the fun of the Fancy Dress Parade.

Common Riding secretary Elaine Brotherstone, who has been in post for the past nine years, will step down after this year's celebrations.

And she was quick to pay tribute to the hard-working committee who make the festival a success each year.

Elaine said: "We should all be very proud that Lauder Common Riding goes from strength to strength every year.

"We have an active committee which drives the whole thing forward year after year.

"We constantly adapt to face the increasing challenges of funding, and ever increasing rules and regulations involved in running our events. But every year, the first Saturday in August it all goes seamlessly and a good time is had by all." It has already been a busy summer for Cornet Mcneill and his Lass, Helen Middlemisss, as they represented their town at all of the other Border festivals.

But on Saturday it is their turn to welcome visiting Principals.

Helen said: "I have been brought up surrounded by Common Riding enthusiasts so it is literally a dream come true to be Cornet's Lass for 2013.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed representing Lauder at other common ridings and festivals and I can't wait for our big week to get under way." The programme for the rest of the week is as follows - Tonight (Wednesday, July 31): 6.15pm - Fancy Dress Children's judging at The Avenue. 6.45pm - Fancy Dress Adults judging at The Avenue. 8pm - Fancy Dress Parade led by Stow Pipe Band. 10pm - Fancy Dress Disco at Lauderdale Hotel.

Thursday, August 1: 2pm - Children's Show at Public Hall. 6.15pm - Preliminary Ride Out, horses assemble in the Avenue.

Friday, August 2: 2pm - Duck Race at Castle Car Park. 7.30pm - Nicht afore the Morn' Concert at Primary School.

Saturday, August 3 (Common Riding Day): 7am - Cornet's March; 7.30am - Riders Assembly; 8am - Standard presented to Cornet; 9.50am - Cavalcade reaches the Waterin' Stane; 11.30am - Riders arrive at War Memorial; 12 noon - Concluding Ceremony at Town Hall; 1pm - Gig on Castle Riggs; 8pm - Common Riding Ball in Marquee.