BIGGAR Gala Week got off to a galloping start this week as over 100 riders, and even bigger crowds, flocked to support the Cornet on his first official ride out.

The Biggar Riding of the Marches got underway after the much anticipated installation of Fraser McNair as this year's Cornet and the sashing of the Fleming Queen Harriet Neville, on Sunday.

As tradition dictates, the 110 riders made their way to Bizzyberry where the flag was raised, and will fly for the next seven days marking the boundary of the town, before being brought down again at the poignant ceremony which signifies the end of the week's festivities.

The mounted cavalcade then returned to the town to a rapturous applause at around 6pm, where Cornet Fraser reported that the Burgh Boundaries were indeed intact.

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The man-of-the-moment was seen to be relaxed after successfully completing his first civic duty. 

"I was really nervous on the lead up to Sunday, but after my speech in the morning everything ran smoothly and it was a fantastic day," the 33-year-old told the Peeblesshire News.

"It's helpful I've had a year to get used to it all as Cornet Elect, which I was appointed last January, and had last year's Gala week to watch Graeme [2015 Cornet] closely as he carried out his duties and take note.

"It's great having the right hand man and Cornet Elect by your side as you're never alone, and they can keep you in check."

Fraser was shocked when he was told of his appointment; having never rode a horse before he never expected to be made Biggar's main man. But, it took him no time to get into the swing of things and is thoroughly enjoying every minute.

With the action-packed week drawing to a close, everybody is looking forward to tomorrow's Gala day and the crowning of the Fleming Queen.

"I am really looking forward to the Gala Day on Saturday. It is really the Queen's day, and it'll be great to be out their supporting Harriet and making it special for her.

"I'm also looking forward to having a bit of a rest! It's so full on all week. It'll be great to go to the other ride-outs throughout the summer and support the other principals who have supported us this week."

The community turned out in huge numbers again to see the presentation for the Queen and her court, as well as take part in the ever-enjoyed quiz night. The night was then danced away at the Queen's Disco. 

On Tuesday, the Queen's Court Dress Parade was followed by the fun in the park with a slippy slide - which Fraser admits he took a leap down himself - and a pet show.

Wednesday's Junior Ride-Out was, as always, very well attended with many promising youngsters (and perhaps future Cornets!) on horseback. The Burn Braes was then flooded with people for the Mini Highland Games, followed by the Whist and later, the duck race.

Thursday allowed no time for rest as the Scooter Races, Glove Race and Mini-Marathon invited sporting participants to compete for first place glory.

Today, crowds are expected to gather for the Queen's Tree Planting ceremony, as everybody looks ahead to tomorrow... Hooray for the Gala Day!

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