THIS week should have seen Melrose mark its annual festival.

However, the event is among the many postponed due to coronavirus restrictions.

Melrosian-elect Douglas Crawford and festival chairman Rob Moffat have issued a video message on Facebook.

Douglas said: "Obviously it's very sad that we're unable to celebrate the festival this week, but I hope you're managing to stay safe and well during what's been a difficult and challenging time for everyone.

"I know Harry [Fletcher], Ben [Magowan] and myself were really looking forward not only to the Melrose week, but also all the other towns' festivals.

"I guess the only positive for me is it gives me a bit longer to learn how to ride a horse, which I'm pretty grateful for.

"Hopefully we'll be able to get together at some point later in the summer and celebrate the festival.

"But until then, stay safe and hopefully see you all soon."

Douglas, 24, was announced as the Melrosian-elect in January at the annual Ex-Melrosian Burns Supper.

He was due to be joined by Harry Fletcher and Ben Magowan, his left-hand and right-hand men, at this year's festivities.

Festival chairman Rob Moffat said: "This week being festival week, is all about our community.

"And what has happened in these crazy times in the last few weeks is we've seen how strong our community is.

"Our festival will come back next year and we will be able to celebrate it and have a lot of fun and enjoyment.

"I feel very sorry for Douglas Crawford, who would have been and will be an excellent Melrosian in the future and it's very difficult for the pupils of Primary 7, the Queen and her Court, who will miss out on a festival this year.

"Our festival will be back, we will try and celebrate our festival in some way later this summer.

"Everybody stay safe, stay well, and our festival, just like our community, is strong and will be back."

Videos of previous years' festivals have been shared on the Melrose Festival's Facebook page, alongside photos of bygone celebrations.

For updates on future videos and activities, visit: www.facebook.com/Melrose-Festival-1413148842266539