THE secret will finally be out tonight (Friday) – when the 2019 Braw Lad and Braw Lass are unveiled to the public.

The big reveal will take place at the Burgh Chambers at 8pm.

As always, the announcement will be made by President of the Gathering Bill White on the balcony. And the new prinicipals will be joined by local schoolchildren to dance the Dashing White Sergeant and have their photos taken. The parade will then follow – led by the Ex-Service Pipe Band to Bank Street Gardens. Declaration Night kicks off the Braw Lads’ Gathering, but there is plenty more to look forward to over the coming months...

  • Friday, May 17: Spurs Night

The first official ride out of the year. The cavalcade will leave Netherdale car park at 6.30pm and will meet representatives from Selkirk at Galafoot. It will then head into Galashiels town centre at 7.15pm, where the Principals will receive a stirrup cup courtesy of Gala YM RFC under the Burgh Chambers’ balcony. A reception will be held by the Gala Souter’s Association where the Braw Lad and Selkirk Standard Bearer will be presented with their Spurs.

  • Friday, May 24: Threepwood

The mounted cavalcade will leave Netherdale car park at 5.45pm and will arrive at Threepwood at 7.15pm. The Ex Service Pipe Band will lead the Lauder Cornet and his followers to the field at Threepwood Crossroads and will then lead in the Braw Lad, Braw Lass and their followers. At 7.30pm a short ceremony will take place, where Principals will exchange medals. Later in the evening, the Ex Service Pipe Band will play for the Gala and Lauder Principals who will dance the Eightsome Reel in the main street in Lauder.

  • Wednesday, May 29: Schoolchildren’s Concert

6.30pm at the Volunteer Hall. Admission by donation.

  • Sunday, June 16: Bike Ride

Cyclists will leave from Galafoot at 2pm. The route proceeds from Galafoot via Boleside along the cycle path to Lindean and back to Galafoot at around 3pm. The event is open to all ages and abilities. It is recommended that cycle helmets are worn.

  • Tuesday, June 18: Swimming Gala

Taking place at Galashiels Swimming Pool, the first race is at 6.30pm. Open to all schoolchildren aged eight and over. Spectators welcome by donation.

  • Friday, June 21: Country Dance

At the Volunteer Hall at 7pm, hosted by the Galashiels Country Dance Club. Admission is £7 at the door for dancers and £3 for spectators.

  • Saturday, June 22: School Discos

At the Volunteer Hall. P1-2 pupils from 11.30am-12.30pm. P3, 4 and 5 pupils from 1pm-2.30pm. Free entry.

  • Saturday, June 22: Braw Lads’ Ball

Held at Galashiels Academy, tickets are priced at £45. Further details will be announced soon.

  • Kirking of the Braw Lad and Lass

Details to follow.

  • Sunday, June 23: Braw Lads’ Sports and Gymkhana

Held on the Netherdale Back Pitches. Admission is £5 for adults. All children go free. All activities once inside, will be free and food and drink will be available to purchase.

  • Braw Lads’ Week:

Monday, June 24: Lindean Ride Out

Tuesday, June 25: Ex Braw Lads’ and Lasses Dinner

Wednesday, June 26: Torwoodlee Ride Out, Fancy Dress Parade and Carnival Dance

Thursday, June 27: School visits and Civic Reception.

Friday, June 28: School visits will continue as well as Investiture Concert

Saturday, June 29: Braw Lads’ Day