MELROSE is preparing itself for the biggest week of the year.

Steeped in historic and civic significance Melrose Festival is a delight from start to finish.

And organisers make sure there is something for everyone with countless family events.

Ben Magowan will become the latest in a long line of Melrosians when he collects the sash during the atmospheric Installation ceremony within the confides of the town's Abbey.

The 23-year-old nurse told us: "Melrose Festival is going to be a magical week.

"When I was growing up, the Melrosian was like some sort of super-hero – I always thought something like that was out of reach."

Ben's duties as Melrosian Elect will begin on Sunday, June 16 with the traditional wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial ahead of the Kirkin's service at the neighbouring Parish Church.

And so begins an action-packed week including the Monday evening rideout, the fancy dress parade, cycle ride, school visits and Tour of Ceremonies.

Ben will be supported throughout by Right-Hand Man Harry Fletcher and Russell Mackay as Left-Hand Man.

Taking up the reign of Festival Queen this year will be Liva McGillivary.

The 11-year-old, who is a primary 7 pupil at Melrose, said: “I’m really happy to be chosen as the Festival Queen this year.”

First Attendant for 2019 is Ellie Darlow, with Amelie Ireland acting as Second Attendant.

Matthew Westbury and Thomas Young are the Queen's Courtiers, with Ben Cook and Harry Lynch accepting the roles of Heralds.

Queen Liva's Trainbearers are Georgina O'Donnell and Grace McGrath.

The Crowning of the Festival Queen also takes place within Melrose Abbey on the Thursday evening.

Crownling Lady will be staunch Festival supporter Kathleen Ramage.

And Guest Orator during the Installation and Crowning ceremonies is Earlston High headteacher Justin Sinclair.

For outgoing Festival Chairman Douglas Hardie, the week-long celebration is something he is extremely proud of.

Mr Hardie said: "Entering our 83rd year, our celebration of Melrose traditions is as popular as ever.

"As I enter my final year in the chair of our Festival I look back with mixed emotions, from a tinge of sadness through to great pride in this small place we all call home."

Sunday, June 16

10.45am - Wreath Laying at War Memorial

11am - Kirkin' of Melrosian at Melrose Parish Church

1.30pm - Football Fives and Netball Competitions

Monday, June 17

6pm - Melrosians' Rideout

9.30pm - Concluding Ceremonies

Tuesday, June 18

6.15pm - Fancy Dress Parade at Gibson Park

Wednesday, June 19

6.30pm - Cycle Ride leaves from Gibson Park

8pm - Annay Road Barbecue

Thursday, June 20

7pm - Installation of Melrosian and Crowning of Festival Queen

Friday, June 21

10am - Hospital and Schools Visits

Saturday, June 22

8.50am - Tour of Ceremonies

2.30pm - Sports in Gibson Park

7pm - Pipe Band in Market Square

8pm - Festival Dinner at Melrose Rugby Club