BIGGAR’S traditional bonfire will return to ring in the New Year – with a popular Biggaronian set to light it.

Preparations started for the annual Biggar Bonfire earlier this month and it has been revealed that 84-year-old local Dorothy Frame will light this year’s structure at 9.30pm on Sunday.

Dorothy told the Peeblesshire News: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be lighting this year’s Biggar Bonfire. 

“I was only given the news when the Biggar Cornet knocked on my door a fortnight ago.

“I’ve lived here all my life, and in that time, worked at several shops, including Bale Electricians.

“My two sons and daughter were also thrilled when I told them the news, and my family will be joining me on the night.

“It is a huge honour to light the bonfire, and I hope to make Biggar proud.”

Dorothy follows on from 77-year-old Jimmy Masterson, who lit the bonfire last year.

Hogmanay’s roots reach back to the practice of sun and fire worship in the deep mid-Winter.

This evolved into the ancient Saturnalia, a great Roman Winter festival, where people celebrated completely free of restraint and inhibition. 

The Vikings celebrated Yule, which became the twelve days of Christmas, or the ‘Daft Days’ as they became known in Scotland. 

The Winter festival went underground with the Reformation and ensuing years, but re-emerged at the end of the 17th Century.

Since then the customs have continued to evolve to the modern day.
To watch a live feed of Dorothy’s big day, visit http://biggarwebcam.co.uk