THE magic of Melrose will be there for everyone to witness next week.

Melrose Festival is a spectacle of colour, tradition and community spirit with a packed seven-days of events and ceremonies.

Melrosian for 2016 Struan Hutchison will lead his town from Sunday in a week of celebration.

The 20-year-old student told us: "I've lived in Melrose all of my life and this is something all of us boys in the town wanted to do. It is every young boy’s dream.

“It is an honour to represent my town as Melrosian.”

The 2016 Festival Queen, who will be crowned within the confides of the dramatic Abbey next Thursday, is primary seven pupil Nicola Ferguson.

The 11-year-old told us: “I like going to the Melrose Festival but this year is going to be special.”

Molly Neville and Felicity Walls are the Queen’s Attendants, with Euan Bond and Joe Foulkes earning the roles of Courtiers.

Callum Ferando and Frazer Rout are the 2016 Heralds.

And primary one pupils Isla Gillespie and Belle Douglas were named as the trainbearers.

Sunday, June 19: 10.45am Wreath laying at War Memorial, 11am Kirkin' of Melrosian in Melrose Parish Church, 1.30pm Football Fives and Netball.

Monday, June 20: 6pm Melrosian Rideout from Greenyards Triangle, 9pm Ceremonies in Market Square.

Tuesday, June 21: 6.15pm Fancy Dress Parade in Gibson Park.

Wednesday, June 22: 6.30pm Cycle Ride from Gibson Park.

Thursday, June 23: 7pm Installation of Melrosian and Crowning of Festival Queen at Melrose Abbey.

Friday, June 24: 10am School and hospital visits by Melrosian, 8pm Festival Ball at Annay Road.

Saturday, June 25: 9am Tour of Ceremonies, 2.30pm Sports in Gibson Park, 7pm Pipe Band in Market Square, 7.45pm Festival Dinner at Melrose Rugby Club.

Sunday, June 26: 1.30pm Cricket Sixes at Huntlyburn.