'It doesn’t get any better than this’

The 28-year-old Royal Burgh Standard Bearer had just led his town in its annual celebrations and customs.

And as he gazed down on the slowly emptying Market Place, it was with a sense of pride and realisation that he began to reflect on a morning that will live with him for the rest of his life.

Standard Bearer Rodgerson is an old hand when it comes to Selkirk’s historic rideout, having completed the Marches no fewer than 21 times prior to Friday.

But it will be this year’s Common Riding that will always take prominence.

Scott told us: “Until you actually carry the flag as Standard Bearer you don’t know how good it is.

“When I got up this morning and saw the sun already shining I knew it was all going to go well. The whole day has been amazing – it couldn’t have gone any better.

“I’ve loved the build-up, right from Appointment Night through all the functions and the week leading up to Common Riding Day was brilliant. It’s great to go round the schools and old folks’ homes – you see how much the Common Riding means to so many people.” From the sunrise Rouse Parade of the Flute Band this was a town in tune with itself and its history.

From a’ the airts they had travelled to sing, commemorate and witness.

And to be part of an unbroken chain of traditions which date back centuries.

They had paid their tributes to the fallen in war and welcomed back the exiles with song and a handshake before Standard Bearer Rodgerson was introduced to his followers high up on the balcony of the Victoria Halls.

The build-up and anticipation was over.

For the next five hours, with Royal Burgh Flag in hand, a smiling and proud Scott Rodgerson followed in the footsteps of the sons of Selkirk who have gone before him.

A 320-strong mounted cavalcade followed him through the historic streets of Selkirk and down to the Ettrick Water.

Fears of any disruption due to the ongoing flood defence works were unfounded as Standard Bearer Rodgerson gently led the way to the river.

The only real difference – a dozen or so orange-clad workmen contributed to the cheers and applause as each horse and rider forded the gently-flowing water.

Blue skies and golden hillsides made for a beautiful backdrop as one by one the cavalcade stretched their legs up the Linglie Glen and onwards towards the iconic grave of Tibbie Tamson.

Standard Bearer Rodgerson said: “The river crossing was fine.

“Nobody was sure how it was all going to work but it was smooth and it was good to see so many people on each side.

“The flood people made sure we could cross the river safely.” And over the historic Marches they rode. Standard Bearer Rodgerson at all times closely supported by his four young Attendants – Rory Monks, Darren Knox, Aaron McPherson and Mathew Stanners – as these ancient boundaries were checked and safeguarded for another year.

As the cavalcade reached the Three Brethren, back in the town the foot followers began to muster once more beneath the statue of Sir Walter Scott.

Arm in arm they marched, in step with the beat, pomp and skirl of the Silver and Pipe bands, and amongst the colourful parade, ancient trades and incorporations proudly represented with flags aloft.

Thousands lined the Toll waiting for the return of the Royal Burgh Standard Bearer and his cavalcade.

And there was an enormous cheer which followed Scott, and his steed Smartie, up every stride of the northern entrance to the town.

Behind came his Attendants and close to the front of the cavalcade were his father, 1980 Standard Bearer Brian, his brother, 2013 Standard Bearer Martin, and his uncle, 1986 Standard Bearer Ian.

And waiting for Scott was mum, Janice, and girlfriend, Julie Templeman, to offer their hugs and congratulations.

Standard Bearer Rodgerson, whose grandfather George was also Standard Bearer in 1950, said: “It’s only two years ago since my brother was Standard Bearer so there’s been plenty advice coming from him and my dad.

“I’m proud to keep the family tradition going and it was good having them with me today.” For 20 minutes or so Standard Bearer Rodgerson waved each and every one of his mounted followers home, his day’s work almost done. But not quite.