MORE than 2,000 residents braved the winter weather to see out 2016 with a sparkling new tradition in Peebles.

Now in its second year, the Peebles Hogmanay Torchlight Procession created a dazzling river of fire through the town’s streets and along the banks of the River Tweed.

The annual event raises money for local charities, and is now attracting visitors from outside the region and abroad. 

Proceeds from the sale of torches will go to the Peebles Beltane organisation, the Peebles Christmas Lights Association, the Peebles Round Table plus the Peebles Peace Group.

Organiser Neil Dalgleish told the Peeblesshire News: “We were delighted with how it went, and I thought the town looked really beautiful with all those flames lighting it up. Despite the very unlucky timing of the rain’s arrival – it couldn’t have been more precisely timed to hit the event! 

“The parade was twice as busy as last year and felt like it could really become a new year tradition for Peebles. It was great to see so many smiling faces warming up the cold night.

“We changed the route a little this year, which meant the procession was together in a wider group for longer, which looked fantastic. 

“It would be nice to go through more of the town’s streets, but we’re always keen to keep any road closure inconvenience to a minimum, so that’s something we’ll discuss locally and with council officials.

“At this stage we’d definitely plan to do it again next year. Despite the rain it was interesting to hear so many people suggest there could be a Ceilidh element, or more street entertainment around the parade too. 

“I’m sure something like that could be great fun and would attract a lot of people here but it would obviously be more expensive to produce. 

“The procession is entirely self-funded, so it’s not like Edinburgh with all the public funding support.

Neil added: “Huge thanks to everyone who braved the weather to take part in the procession, and especially to the local companies whose sponsorship made it possible.

"Special thanks to the volunteers who stood for a long time in the dark and rain to make sure it was a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, and we’re ever grateful to the local fire brigade, police and council officials who did a fantastic job to make it all happen. 

“I’m looking forward to announcing that we’ll have raised significant funds for the local charities involved.”

The torchlight procession was supported by many local businesses including the newly-opened branch of Costa, Barony Castle, Holland and Sherry, BFM Properties, MacDonald Cardrona Hotel, Renwick and Weir, Scotlight Group, Stobo Castle and Thomson Gray.