Peebles and West Linton riders join St Ronan's band at event

Representatives from communities in the region joined fellow riders in the capital for the first event since 2019.

Peebles Cornet’s Lass Ailidh Copeland and West Linton Whipman Fraser Kay and his Lass Vikki Kay were among those joining Edinburgh Captain Jay Sturgeon and his Lass Abbie McDowall.

Also taking part in the event was St Ronan’s Silver Band, which played next to St Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile.

An Edinburgh Riding of the Marches spokesperson said: “The 2023 Edinburgh Captain Jay Sturgeon and Edinburgh Lass Abbie McDowall led the cavalcade of 280 horses through Holyrood Park on Sunday, September 10 in a momentous occasion, celebrating the historic re-enactment of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches after a three-year gap.

“The Captain carries the City of Edinburgh Banner, which would later be handed back to the Edinburgh Lord Provost on the top of the Mercat Cross, as part of a ceremony that not only celebrates the fascinating ancient Edinburgh custom dating back to at least 1579, but also marks a commemoration to the defeat of the Scottish Army at the Battle of Flodden.

“This event is fundraised for and organised by a small volunteer committee, who work tirelessly all year round to raise money to fund the event and we are so very grateful for all those who have donated, supported, shared our posts, ridden in the event and come along to watch.”

Sharing to social media, St Ronan’s Silver Band added: “Another great day at the first Edinburgh Riding of the Marches since 2019!

“Such an honour for our wee band to play for such an auspicious event!”

On Saturday, September 30 St Ronan's Silver Band will join five other bands – Bathgate Youth Band, Creetown Silver Band, Peebles Burgh Youth Band, and Galashiels Town Band – at the 10th annual Innerleithen Youth Brass Band Competition.

The competition will run from 10am to 12.30pm at St Ronan's Primary School and tickets are £5 for adults, children are free.