BORDERS Principals are flying the flag for rail travel ahead of the summer celebrations.

Hundreds of visitors are expected to arrive in Selkirk, Galashiels and Melrose to enjoy the traditional ride-outs.

And the men and women who are leading the festivals are urging supporters to take the train.

The opening of the Borders Railway in September 2015 means that the traditional Borders Common Ridings and Festivals are now more accessible than ever before.

Events steeped in history and upholding traditions that date back centuries, the Borders Festivals combine the unforgettable spectacle of horses and their riders with local celebrations and pageantry.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, hopes 2017 can bring a further boost to local visitor economy.

He told us: "The Common Ridings are one of the oldest equestrian festivals in the world and a wonderful spectacle to witness.

"They take place against the backdrop of the dramatic landscape of the Scottish Borders, when the sheer guts and determination of the people comes to the fore.

"Scotland’s history and culture are among the top reasons for visiting Scotland and we hope to encourage visitors to make the journey on the Borders Railway to soak up the atmosphere at these unique events.”

2017 marks the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology – a Scottish Government initiative hoping to boost tourism across the country through new and existing activities which reveal Scotland’s fascinating stories.

The Year of Homecoming 2014 saw 111,830 visitors to the Common Riding Festivals.

And it is hoped this year's promotion will be every bit as successful.

Alasdair Smart, ScotRail Alliance tourism manager, said: “Tourism in Scotland is a key economic sector and we recognise the critical role that we play in supporting the national agenda, tourism businesses and local communities.”

With Hawick celebrations have taken place last weekend, focus now centres on Selkirk.

On Friday Selkirk’s Riding of the Marches will commemorate the times when the town’s fore-bearers patrolled the boundaries on horseback.

And this will be followed by the dramatic Casting of the Colours ceremony, where Standard Bearers from various trades will proudly cast their flags in front of captivated crowds.

Selkirk is quickly followed by Melrose Festival - from June 18 to 24 - and the Braw Lads Gathering in Galashiels - from June 23 to July 1.

Kate Pearson, economic development officer for tourism at Scottish Borders Council said: "Borderers are immensely proud of their town’s Common Ridings and festivals, which are full of colour, noise and passion.

“Visitors are made to feel welcome at each, with many Common Ridings and festivals running exile nights to help tourists feel part of the community.

“The Borders Railway has already helped to boost tourist numbers to the area, and I am sure many will use the service to visit Common Ridings and festivals throughout the summer.”