HEAVY showers couldn't wash away the rugby spirit in Walkerburn on Saturday.

The 133-year-old club has struggled in recent seasons to field a regular league team.

But support for the Caberston club is unwavering with hundreds turning out to enjoy a thrilling sevens tournament.

Saturday's sevens, the 96th in the club's history, proved yet again to be memorable.

Haddington, who had squeezed past Hawick Quins in the semi-final, were the surprise winners over a tired-looking Melrose Storm in the final.

The East Lothian side had earlier beaten Lasswade in a close opening tie encounter before disposing off Peebles 35-5 in the second round.

Storm had looked good in the earlier rounds with a 24-17 win over a pacey Selkirk side.

The Greenyards seconds also beat Trinity Accies 21-12 in the second round.

But a semi-final thriller, which saw them edge past St Boswells 35-34, took its toll.

There wasn't much joy for the home supporters as Walkerburn were beaten 36-0 in the opening round by Earlston.

And last year's winners, Gala YM, also crashed out in the first round, going down 38-5 to Trinity.

Walkerburn secretary Colin McCudden said: "We enjoyed seeing old and new faces down at Caberston Haugh to witness some high quality and entertaining rugby."