THE countdown to a summer of festivities has begun in Biggar.

Katie Child has been unveiled as the town’s Fleming Queen-Elect and the Biggar Cornets Club have announced that the Cornet Elect for 2015 is 31-year-old Fraser McNair.

Katie’s selection was announced in the Municipal Hall on January 13 and the the Peeblesshire News has photographed her with her court.

Sandra Bolton has been confirmed as the Crowning Lady.

Fraser’s mum Jennifer McNair said: “We moved to Biggar in 1980, before Fraser was born. Although Fraser was in the Court in P1 and a Herald twice more during primary school, I never imagined one day he would be Cornet - I’m so proud. He has not ridden before and had his first lesson last Sunday.” Fraser, who is an only child, is married to Anne and they have a five-year-old daughter, May and 10-month-old baby son Robbie.

Fraser, a time served mechanic who has worked for Atlas Winch and Hoists in Biggar for two years, said: “It is a huge honour and very exciting but I had some time to think it over and discuss it with Anne as it is a big commitment. I was a bit nervous about getting on a horse but it went well and I can’t wait for the next time.” The next big event on the calendar is the Gala Week Committee and Cornet’s Annual Presentation Night on February 7 and all are welcome to support the retiring Cornet and Queen and meet this year’s Principals.

This year’s Biggar Gala Week will begin on Saturday, June 6.

The main rideout will be on Sunday, June 7, and the Gala Day on Saturday, June 13.