WEST Linton’s best kept secret has finally been revealed.

Last Friday night, the Introduction Concert for the village’s annual Whipman Week - the first to be held of the Borders Common Riding season - were held a few weeks earlier than usual at the Graham Institute.

Ian Reid hosted the fun-packed evening which featured an abundance of talent.

Young dancers from Dance Studio 21, songs by Primary 5 pupils from West Linton Primary School and local folk singers, a fun sketch from the village’s Amateur Dramatic Club, plus performances from the Ex-Whipman and Lasses entertained a packed hall.

And the night wouldn’t be complete without the usual excitement and anticipation when president, Raymond Nicol, chairman, Hamish Dykes and secretary, Sheila Forsyth came on stage to introduce the principals for 2018.

This year’s Barony Herald is Junior Bureqele, he is 12-years-old and lives in West Linton with his family. The youngster said he is “really honoured to be chosen “ as he loves the Whipman week.

Next up, the Flower Girl is Lily Dow, she is four-years-old and attends Newlands and Kirkurd Nursery. Lily said she is “really excited and looking forward to Whipman week in June.”

Following that, the Presenting Lady is Dr Patsy Campbell. Having lived in Carlops for over 50 years, Patsy is a very active member in the community.

Peeblesshire News:

^Photo: Helen Barrington


The evening concluded when West Linton’s best kept secret was revealed - the Whipman and Lass for 2018. There was a huge cheer and the hall filled with applause when Adrian Jackson and his wife Fiona came on to the stage, and were confirmed to be taking on their new roles.

Following the announcement, Adrian said: “I am deeply honoured to be chosen and I’m really looking forward to my year in office.”

Sheila Forsyth, secretary of the Whipman Festival told the Peeblesshire News: “It was a fabulous evening of entertainment and was really enjoyed by everyone who was lucky enough to be there. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and helped to organise this year’s Introduction Concert. We are now all excited and looking forward to Whipman week 2018.”

Before the week-long event, the Junior Ride Out take place on Sunday, May 27.

Whipman week will kick off on Friday, June 1 with the installation of the 2018 Whipman and Lass followed by procession round the village.

This will be followed by an array of events until June 9.