LAUDER tuned out in force on Saturday to mark the end of another successful week of celebrations.

Locals and visitors alike lined the streets to be part of the traditional Common Riding Day.

And it was an extra special day for Cornet Chris Purves and his Lass Zoe Bruce who had the honour of leading the mounted cavalcade.

Cornet Purves told us: “It was like being in a movie.

“It was so surreal.

“It is so difficult to explain it all.

“Everybody told me in the run up to Common Riding Day I would be so nervous, that I wouldn’t be able to eat any breakfast.

“But I think I was completely the opposite.

“The support was fantastic.

“I just about managed to hold myself together when I saw everyone.

“I felt an immense sense of pride carrying the flag.

“Everybody tells you to take it all in because it goes so fast.

“It really does, it feels like it was picking night yesterday.”

Cornet Purves said one of his favourite moments was the canter from the Waterin’ Stane.

He added: “It is really difficult to pick just one moment.

“Turning around to see 268 horses following is incredible.

“I just couldn’t stop smiling throughout the whole day – even when there was no-one looking at me.

“I don’t know what I am going to do with myself now it is all over.

“I will be going to Coldstream Civic Week celebrations at the weekend, but it will be so strange not having to go to any other after that.”

It was also a memorable occasion for Chairman Ex-Cornet Ian Middlemiss.

It was his final year in the role.

He said: “A huge thank you to all our committee and anyone who helped in any way to pull off another excellent Common Riding.

“I’m signing off now after a very enjoyable and busy five years as Chairman.

“Thanks again to everyone for their support.”