A FUNDRAISER has been launched to help fund this year's Selkirk Common Riding.

The Go Fund Me page, created by Selkirk Common Riding Trust, aims to raise £5,000 to help cover the cost of the common riding this summer.

The festival receives a grant from Scottish Borders Council to help pay for the event, however, running costs have increased in recent years.

The fundraising page reads: "The upholding of the historic traditions of Selkirk Common Riding and all its ceremonial aspects is, exclusively, the responsibility of Selkirk Common Riding Trust.

"Any funds raised by this appeal will be solely directed to defraying the expenses incurred in observing, maintaining, and perpetuating our cherished heritage.

"The annual grant, which we receive from Scottish Borders Council, has remained static now for 13 years.

"Meanwhile, the costs of running the common riding are escalating at a truly alarming rate."

The trust estimates that the 2022 common riding will cost approximately £20,000.

The trustees also hope to purchase new platforms for the Bussing of the Royal Burgh Flag at Victoria Hall and the Casting of the Colours ceremony in the Market Place.

These platforms will cost around £14,000, however, the trust says that in the long-term the purchase will save a substantial amount of money.

The trust added: "As members of Selkirk Common Riding Trust we are conscious that there is a heavy weight of responsibility placed upon us to serve The Royal and Ancient Burgh of Selkirk and her noble traditions to the absolute best of our ability and we can only achieve this with your commitment and generosity."

To support the Selkirk Common Riding fundraiser, visit: gofund.me/0ec77a8f