'It brings everyone out and brings out the best in everyone'

A cavalcade of horses took part in a procession round the boundaries of Galashiels on Saturday, to mark the culmination of a series of events to celebrate the history of the town.

Ruaridh Anderson and Chloe Logan led this year’s festivities after being appointed the 2026 Braw Lad and Lass.

And, with thermometers topping 23 degrees Celsius during the ceremonial ride, what little rain there was failed to dampen spirits.

“It's unreal, honestly there's no words that can describe today," Ruaridh told Greatest Hits Radio. "It's just been mental from the time I got up early this morning until about now.

"Seeing the support from the town and the amount of folk out, it's just superb.

“I was a bit scared last night when I saw the thunder and lightning, but it's turned out really well today, so we're being smiled upon."

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When asked what the Braw Lads’ Gathering means to him, the 18-year-old cyber security graduate, who carried the Burgh Standard, replied: "It's just magic.

“It's a real sense of community and there's nothing else quite like it in the world.

“There's folk in America who know about this, and it brings everyone out and brings out the best in everyone."

We caught up with the pair as they enjoyed a break in proceedings - at the shows in the Public Park - in the afternoon.

Chloe Logan, a 25-year-old pupil support assistant, admits the day had been top class.

“I've got no words,” she told us. “What a rollercoaster of a day, it's been incredible. Every emotion, it's an insane feeling.”

But she added: “I'm so grateful for everybody's support, it's been the best day.”

Chloe revealed the traditional Mixing of the Roses ceremony had been the standout moment for her.

“What a feeling having everybody around as you're carrying out your duties,” she added. “It's been amazing."

Meanwhile, last week we reported that King Charles is to get a taste of the Borders festival season on visit to Jedburgh on Thursday (July 2nd). More here.

For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/

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