WHAT makes a legend? Reporter Hilary Scott finds out what makes a great man remembered by his community.

Reid Meikle – a name well known in Innerleithen for his dedication and hard work in the town he loved. And now he will be honoured and remembered with a memorial award in the St Ronan’s Games.

It was a sad day in the town when Reid bid farewell to fellow St Ronanites, passing away in April this year.

The former Scottish Borders Councillor served on an impressive number of the town’s organisations, including the Community Council, Civic Society, Christmas Lights Association, St Ronan’s Games Committee, and was a Life Member of the Innerleithen Silver Band.

Reid’s true passion and love of the Games was evident through his service on the committee, and working hard behind the scenes. He also served as Standard Bearer in 1954. But his fun side shone through when it came to the fancy dress, and Reid relished making costumes for his family each year.

Remembering Reid with fond memories, daughter Linda said: “He would work on the costumes weeks in advance. Often the whole family would go for picnics up the Leithen and while we played in the water, Dad would be busy making costumes for the family.

“He made a huge mint for Foxes Glacier Mints, a tortoise shell for the Tortoise and The Hare, a spider for Little Miss Muffet, and when we took the horses in he made costumes for them. Thursday night was a real family affair. Dad getting us ready for the parade, mum getting things ready for our sleepover at Granny Coltman and Grandma Meikle’s, while they went to the Standard Bearers’ Club night which used to be after the parade and was replaced with the Ball.”

Reid’s contribution to the fancy dress was recognised by the committee, who asked him to take on the difficult task of judging.

Linda explained: “My mum refused as she felt everyone deserved a prize, so I joined my dad judging and I have so many happy memories of this. Dad looked at every entrant and spoke to them all because he knew the work they had put in.”

And now the Meikle family have honoured the man who gave them great childhood memories in the most fitting way possible.

This year saw the beginning of a new award that will keep the spirit of the fancy dress alive, while remembering a true St Ronanite who gave his heart and soul to his family, the Games and his town.

“Susan and I think the Reid Meikle Memorial Trophy will be a fitting reminder of a fancy dress legend who loved Innerleithen and the Games Week. We hope that this will encourage participation and keep a part of the Games week that he loved thriving,” added Linda.

So what makes a man a legend? For many it is a person who leaves behind an unforgettable impression on others, touching lives through their selfless good deeds. Those remembered and treasured for their contribution and devotion to causes that mean the world to them.

And to the people of this Border town, legends are born of people like Reid Meikle. Gone but never forgotten.