CELEBRATIONS are under way with our neighbours in Penicuik as Hunter and Lass Week begins.
The festivities started on May 14 with the Hunter and Lass talent show, and will continue this weekend with the family bike ride and the Junior Hunter and Lass disco tomorrow (Saturday) and the car show on Sunday.
Then the official Hunter and Lass Week begins on Tuesday and Wednesday (May 24 and 25) with Penicuik Hunter Duncan Whitson and his Lass Kelly Lorimer visiting local schools in the town.
Installation Night will be held on Thursday, May 26 and the week will draw to a close on Friday and Saturday with the Hunter and Lass Ball on May 27 and Festival Day – which includes the ride out, parade and Penicuik in the Park – on Saturday, May 28.
Duncan and Kelly were originally selected to be the Hunter and Hunter's Lass in 2020, but due to the us pandemic, celebrations have been on hold for the last two years.
Duncan, who will be celebrating his 60th birthday tomorrow, said: "I was so delighted and honoured to have been elected as Penicuik’s Hunter 2020, which was unfortunately postponed due to COVID.
"I am looking forward to taking on my duties and doing Penicuik proud while visiting neighbouring towns."
Kelly added: "I met my Hunter at a local riding yard and we have now been together for eight years.
"We both went for Penicuik’s Hunter and Lass as we had been involved for a few years prior and were absolutely over the moon when we were elected as Hunter and Lass 2020 but COVID happened and a long delay.
"I’m very happy it’s going ahead this year so we can take up our roles."
This year's Junior Hunter and Hunter's Lass are Struan Fraser and Ruby Hastings, both from Strathesk Primary School.
Ruby said: “When I found out I was representing Strathesk Primary as Junior Lass I could not stop smiling.
"I was so happy when I got home and told my Mum.
"I love horses and so I’m excited to meet my one and ride it through Penicuik!
"Looking forward to all the activities and events that I will be involved in this year!”
Struan added: “I am happy I was chosen to represent Strathesk as Junior Hunter with my friend, Ruby. I am looking forward to being involved in all the events happening this year.”
For more information and updates, visit the Penicuik Hunter and Lass Facebook page.
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