Peeblesshire News | News | Colin puts up a Noble show as Cornet

Monday, 8th September, 2008

Published: Monday, 23rd June, 2008 12:00

Colin puts up a Noble show as Cornet

By David O'Leary

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The rain came down but the smiles lit up the night.

Cornet Colin Noble is no stranger to the elements in his job as a greenkeeper so there was never much chance of the weather dampening his spirits.

Speaking after his installation on Wednesday night, he told the Peeblesshire News: “The weather wasn’t ideal but as I said in my speech the people who turned out were my sunshine.

“They were fantastic everyone stayed and everyone followed, I couldn’t have asked for more.”

Colin and his lass, Katy only began horseriding on April 5 but their mounts did them proud bringing them safe oot and safe in.

“There have been a few hairy moments on other rideouts but tonight my horse, Pedaller, was amazing.” Colin said. “He thought about stopping for a drink as we crossed the Tweed but I wasn’t allowing him to get one before me.”

Katy said: “Going up the golf course and through the Tweed will stay with me forever. The weather was a little disappointing but as they say ‘It never rains under a bowler hat’.”

The night began with their installation on the steps of the Old Parish Church in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd of Peebleans.

“I only finished writing my speech at 11am because I wanted to truly capture the moment, which I hope I did.”

Next stop was Neidpath Castle for the Warden’s Address, which was given this year by Tom Swanston, a man steeped in Beltane tradition who himself was a cornet in 1965.

This was Cornet Colin’s highlight of the night he said: “ It’s hard to pick a moment but seeing my parents Pam and Dougie at Neidpath was definitely special.”

It was an emotional night for all who had the honour to be chosen as Principals. Relaxing in the Tontine Hotel afterwards ex-Cornet’s Lass Yvonne Bain said: “I got a little choked up when I had to hand back the sash but I’ve enjoyed it immensely.

“I’ve not much energy left now but I’m quite sure the adrenalin will kick in when the reel begins.

Ex-Cornet Murray Bain said: “It’s a strange feeling the year having passed not being Cornet anymore but it’s great to get to help Colin and Katy through it. It was a fabulous year and we’ve made some great, lifelong friends.”

Beltane Committee Chairwoman, Christina Elder wished for a special mention to be made about the crowds that turned out to watch the event.

She said: “Despite the weather there was a fanastic turnout and they all played their part too. This is my fourth year and I still enjoy it as much. It’s been a great day.”

As the evening drew to a close, Colin and Katy took their places for the reel in the High Street and then presented the prizes outside the Tontine Hotel.

Heading out for the reel, Colin said: “I’m going to enjoy this because I’m a better dancer than a horseman”

Hawick Cornet Ben Graham won the Beltane bell he said: “I’m delighted to have won and I’m proud to bring the bell back to Hawick.”

The night’s events ended as the Peebles Ex-Serviceman’s Pipe Band played ‘Scotland the Brave’ but the festivities and merrymaking continued for long after.

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