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Selkirk Scotland |
 Honorary Provost Johnny Thomson |
Selkirk Common Riding Trust, as successors to The Provost Magistrates and Councillors of the Royal Burgh of Selkirk, confirm to the public of Selkirk that arrangements are proceeding positively in relation to the Riding of our Burgh Marches on Friday 15th June 2001.
As a consequence of the recent uncertainty caused by the epidemic of Foot and Mouth disease afflicting farmlands, this year's Common Riding will be very curtailed.
Four Burleymen have been appointed to ride the marches of our Burgh's property and land after most careful corroboration of all known historical precedence. No other horses will be permitted, this year, but hopefully by next year, The Common Riding Traditions will return to normal.
The members of the Common Riding Trust appeal to all members of the public to refrain from setting foot on The Burgh lands this year on 15th June as a measure of respect and courtesy to the farming community, which has endured such worrying times recently.
The timetable, which is published today reveals that the ceremonial aspects of our Common Riding within the Royal Burgh of Selkirk, including all foot processions and the Casting of the Colours will be observed.
As Provost of the Common Riding Trust, I appeal to the people of Selkirk for their understanding and support on 15th June, to ensure our traditions are honoured with great dignity and pride.
Recent times have been very difficult for many people, and the effects of the foot and mouth disease crisis have been felt by businesses throughout the country which are not even linked to the agricultural sector.
My belief is that with care and common sense we can safely uphold our Common Riding traditions and thus ensure that we preserve a priceless jewel.
That jewel is our heritage.
Johnnie Thomson
Provost of Selkirk Common Riding Trust
Photograph ©2001 Ian W Mitchel, R. Clapperton's Photographic Studio
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