Royal Regiment of Scotland band leads VE Day celebrations in Kelso
Last updated 12th May 2025
Crowds turned out in the centre of Kelso this afternoon for a sun-kissed ceremony to celebrate 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Local cadets joined the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and veterans from the King's Own Scottish Borderers on a parade through the town, where a Drumhead Service of Remembrance took place in its historic Square.
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Representatives from the Polish forces stationed in the region were also in attendance.
The bunting was rolled out for the VE Day event which, along with a display of vintage cars and music from Kelso Pipes and Drums, added to the occasion.
Among those in attendance was Scottish Borders Council convener Watson McAteer. He told Greatest Hits Radio: "It's a fantastic day for Kelso and the Borders. It's great to see so many people coming out and remembering a very special day in our history."
The event in Kelso - which followed the lighting of beacons across the country, including Berwick and Selkirk on Thursday - will be brought to a close with a Beating Retreat ceremony at Floors Castle at 6pm, with the salute being taken by The Duke of Roxburghe.
Sharing his thoughts, his Grace said: “It is both an honour and a privilege to be part of the commemoration for such an important day, both for the history of our nation and for Europe.
"It is personally poignant since I, and the past four generations of my family have served in the Armed Forces, with my Grandfather in the Second War and my Great Grandfather in the Boer and Great War.
"I am sure it will be a fantastic day for the town, and be a fitting tribute to the dedication, service and sacrifice of so many.”
Beating Retreat is a military ceremony that dates back to the 17th century. It was first used to recall nearby patrolling units to their castle.
The ceremony involved the troops beating drums and parading the streets to mark the end of a day of combat, as well as lowering the flags and closing the gates.
Councillor John Greenwell, the region's Armed Forces & Veterans Champion, said: “The overwhelming support and participation from the people of the Borders made this event truly memorable.
“Let us continue to come together in remembrance and reflection, ensuring that the legacy of our veterans continues to inspire future generations. It is vital that the younger generation continues to remember the sacrifices made for our freedom."
Lieutenant General John Cooper of The King's Own Scottish Borderers shared his thoughts: "It was an honour to be involved in the VE Day 80th Anniversary Commemoration events in Kelso.
“We commemorated not only the fallen Borderers but all those who perished in Europe, including our sister Regiments, the men and women of The Royal Navy, The Royal Air Force, our Allies, and the many millions of civilians who died for our democratic way of life and the freedom we enjoy today."
More pictures from the event are available here.
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