THERE was plenty of rhyme and reason to take a seat at Halyrude Primary School last week as the next generation of poetry performers took to the stage.

A revival of interest in Scots over recent years, along with the perpetual appreciation of Rabbie Burns has led to ever increasing numbers of school pupils pulling out the anthologies.

And, as the judges from Peebles Callants Club were quick to admit, the standard of performer was as high as ever.

After reciting their way through school competitions at Halyrude, Priorsford and Kingsland the finalists from each of the primaries took to the stage on Thursday.

Despite a long deliberation by the judges, they couldn't separate the eventual joint-winners of the Primary 3/4 competition.

Struan Kennedy and Eilidh McGeoch were announced as the joint champions.

It was equally as tight with the minor places as Evie Dickson and Nancy Thomson tied for second, and third equal were Summer Noble and James Kane.

The Primary 5/6 recitals were equally as entertaining.

Actions almost spoke louder than words as the pupils performed on the stage.

In the end William Macpherson was announced as the deserving champion.

Elena Chrystie and Charlie Davidson shared the runners-up spot with Murray Learmond claiming third place.

All of the senior Primary 7s were terrific, but taking home the first prize was Lewis George.

Caitlin Kane was announced as the runner-up with Macy Balfour claiming third.

After some number crunching on their calculators, the judges were able to announce Kingsland Primary School as this year's Star O Rabbie Burns Trophy winners.

A spokesman for Peebles Callants Club told us: "As they took to the stage it was clear that a great deal of hard work had taken place, as a variety of poems were presented to a very high standard.

"Great credit is due to pupils, teachers and parents for an excellent evening which gave the three judges an extremely difficult task in separating the competitors."