IT’S that time of year again. A summer of glorious fun and games in Peeblesshire has kicked off with the Whipman Festival now underway.

This is the 211th time West Linton has staged one of the most keenly-anticipated events in the Borders calendar.

And organisers are confident that this year’s renewal of the historic Whipman Play will be better than ever - now they just need the weather to behave.

There has already been a taste of what is to come with a storming introduction night last month that earned top marks for entertainment.

Whipman Elect Calum Murray set the tone for the festivities ahead with an acceptance speech that had the audience at the Graham Institute in stitches.

Calum, 20, has already begun life in his new role by attending introduction nights in other Border communities.

He and Lass Elect, Alison Hardie, are ready and prepared for the important roles they have to play in the smooth-running of the festival.

“Everything is in place now for another great Whipman,” said secretary Sheila Forsyth. “All our preparations have gone smoothly. We had fine weather last year and we’re hoping the sun shines on us again this time round.

“We have all our usual shows and attractions and it will be the second year of the Whipman Playlist. This was held in the Newlands Centre last time but this year is in the Graham Institute.

“Our Whipman Elect is excited at what lies ahead and he’s been doing plenty of horse riding in preparation.” The festivities began with the Junior Rideout last Sunday, June 1 and finish on Sunday, June 15.