SELKIRK’S Standard Bearer Elect is keeping his head down.

Towering second-row forward Peter Forrest was the popular choice to lead his town for this year’s Common Riding.

But, with ongoing renovation works to the Town Hall, his Appointment Night was held along the road at the Victoria Hall.

And the six-foot-three joiner had to duck for cover when being unveiled at shoulder-height from the front doors.

Peter told us: “There is a lantern as you come out of the front door so I had to really keep my head down.

“I quite like the fact that I’ll be the only Standard Bearer whose appointment was at the Victoria Hall – at least people will remember me because of it.

“It’s a great honour to be chosen to represent my town, although I've been surprisingly calm leading up to my appointment tonight but I'm not so sure I'll manage to hold back the nerves when the Common Riding gets closer.”

The joiner, who is a member of the town’s Hammermen's Association, has ridden the Burgh Marches on 11 previous occasions – four times as an Attendant behind Standard Bearers James Cheyne, Douglas Gunn, Gavin Henderson and Kieran Riddell.

Among the first to congratulate Peter were his parents, Rob and Ann, as well as girlfriend, Emma Pearce.

Peter’s Attendants were also announced on Friday evening.

Craig Monks, Robbie Reilly, Thomas Willmott and Liam Cassidy will be in the saddle beside Standard Bearer Forrest during Common Riding morning.

Despite the forced changes to Appointment Night procedures, huge crowds gathered at the Victoria Hall to welcome their Standard Bearer.

And the processions, led by Selkirk Flute and Selkirk Silver bands, were as busy as seen in recent years.

Honorary Provost Jake Wheelans, who is in his third and final year of office, told us: “Everything has went very well and a lot of credit must go to the workers who made sure the Victoria Hall was looking so good this evening.

“We have a very able and popular Standard Bearer in Peter Forrest and I am sure he will be a great ambassador for the town.”

It was standing room only inside the Victoria Hall for the Appointment Night Concert.

Gary Guthrie, chair of the Ex Standard Bearers’ Association, welcomed guests and introduced the 2018 Principals to rapturous applause.

Gary said: “It is obvious that Peter’s appointment is a popular one.

“I am sure Peter will be a great ambassador to represent our town.”

Local farmer and horse-trainer Stuart Coltherd was introduced to the packed hall as he celebrates the 25th anniversary of his year as Standard Bearer.

And Ian Wilson led the singing as Common Riding songs, making sure the proud people of Selkirk were ready once more to celebrate and honour their proud heritage.