SELKIRK'S first Standard Bearer for 2018 was announced on Friday when the Selkirk Merchant Company appointed Stuart Davidson to carry their flag in this year’s Common Riding procession.

Architect Stuart works out of offices in the town's High Street.

The father of three is married to Karen.

Stuart's appointment was confirmed at the Merchant Company AGM which was followed by the annual dinner at Selkirk Rugby Club.

The dinner was presided over by Company Master David Heard, while Jim Harold introduced the new Standard Bearer with a humorous speech.

Stuart replied, sincerely thanking the Company for the honour bestowed on him and his family.

Other top table guests were Gordon Newlands who toasted Selkirk Merchant Company, Town and Trade with an impassioned speech informed by his business experiences and his love of Selkirk and the Borders.

Honorary Provost Jake Wheelans replied in the first of the many speeches he will be called upon to give over the Common Riding season.

A very entertaining vote of thanks was given by Donald Francis, one of last year’s new Company members.

New entrants to the Merchant Company this year were Ben Agate, Jennifer Craig, Rona Munro and Caroline Penman, who is having quite a year of it having been the latest recipient of the Jim Oliver award and recently elected as an SBC Councillor for Selkirkshire.