DOUGLAS Crawford has been volunteering as a dog-walker as he digests the cancellation of this year's Melrose Festival.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph, Douglas described his disappointment upon learning he will not act as Melrosian in 2020.

But he revealed his current focus is helping the community as it confronts coronavirus.

Reflecting on the cancellation, he said: "I'm obviously gutted to hear the news but given the circumstances it’s the right decision."

Douglas had been due to keep alive a family tradition by leading proceedings in June, his brother Donald having been the latest member of the Crawford clan to appear as Melrosian.

However, it will now likely be another year before the ex-Merchiston student takes a bow alongside Harry Fletcher and Ben Magowan, left-hand and right-hand man.

Douglas said: "I hope to be able to do it next year if possible, but at the moment nothing's been confirmed as we’re all currently focusing on how we can help the community in Melrose at this time.

"I know both Ben and Harry were equally disappointed as well, but they are definitely looking forward to fulfilling their duties next year."

The ex-Melrosians Association has this week been going out into the community to offer help.

Douglas said: "The ex-Melrosians Association have volunteered their services, and I’ve been helping with some requests that have come into the rugby club, like dog walking etc.

"I think chairman Rob Moffat has been doing his bit delivering fruit and veg."

The Braw Lads' Gathering in Galashiels, the Selkirk Common Riding, and the Beltane Festival in Peebles have all been postponed until 2021, but no principals had been announced for any of those events.

In a statement on Thursday, March 19, organisers of the Braw Lads' Gathering said: "In line with the advice from the Government, we have taken the unfortunate decision to cancel this year's Braw Lads' Gathering in its entirety."

Selkirk Common Riding committee added: "The foregoing decision was made after very full and careful consideration of the current public health crisis and the need to play our part in endeavours to suppress the transmission of the invisible beast.

"The Borderland, over the centuries, has prevailed through war and pestilence and yet here in 2020, we have another battle on our hands.

"Our cherished traditions, our heritage, demand that we plan with force and determination of mind to bounce back next year with even more vigour than before. Meanwhile, we in Selkirk are well forward in planning for the Common Riding in June 2021."