WEST LINTON basked in the sunshine last weekend, as the 214th celebration of the Whipman Play got off to a flying start

On Friday, Rob and Rebecca (Becs) Norris were installed as the Linton Whipman and Lass in the marquee on the Village’s Lower Green.

Despite a broken collarbone and family heartbreak the weekend before, the 2017 Whipman was smiling throughout the evening.

And the couple thanked the entire community and looked forward to the busy summer ahead.

The traditional ceremony kicked off in the marquee at 7pm with huge cheers as the 2016 Whipman and Lass, Gary and Louise Ross, stepped down for the transition to Rob and Becs.

Rob told the Gathering: “I’m humbled and honoured for me and Becs to serve as the Whipman and Lass for 2017. 

“Both Gary and Louise have served with distinction over the last year, and I can imagine that it was difficult to hand back the flag.”

President Raymond Nichol welcomed the guests and the community before Retiring Whipman Gary Ross gave his speech, in which he returned the flag as promised on this night a year ago, “unsullied and untarnished”.

The Proclamation of the 2017 Linton Whipman was then read by Barony Herald, James Hodgkiss followed by the sashing of Rob and Becs.

Raymond Nichol, President of the Whipman Play said: “Rob Norris, I give you this flag for safe keeping for one year in office as our Linton Whipman. Carry it with pride and guard it with honour, represent us well during the year ahead.

“On behalf of the community, I wish you both a happy term of office and I charge you, to return this flag back here, one year hence, unsullied and untarnished.”

Whipman Lass Rebecca then bussed her husbands colours, securing his place in West Linton history alongside past Whipmen.

In a speech, Rob said: “To me, the Whipman is about an inclusive and tight-knit community. I think its fair to say that this arm, and other circumstances in my life at the moment, where not how I planned to start Whipman week, but I live my life by the motto, its not about the cards you are dealt, its how you play the hand.

“My Lass Becs and I have had a fantastic time so far, we particularly enjoyed our visits to the nurseries and the schools, the enthusiasm was really uplifting.

“We’ve enjoyed meeting lots of lovely people, both locally and in the surrounding towns.”

After the ceremony, the Principals, apart from Rob, danced the Whipman Reel, before a parade through the village. 

The West Linton and District Pipe Band launched the parade, shortly followed by Rob, who was transported around on a cart towed by a horse.

Children, and adults in fancy dress passed on a range of colourful floats, with appearances by several tractors, and the Scottish Borders Brass Band Association.

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