GALASHIELS will be buzzing with excitement as the town gears up to host the return of the Braw Lads' Gathering.

The annual gathering returns to Galashiels from June 24 to July 1.

To mark the start of festivities, the evening before Braw Lads’ Week sees the return of the Braw Lads’ Ball tonight (Saturday, June 24).

Then tomorrow at 11am at Trinity Church the annual Kirking of the Braw Lad Cory Paterson and Lass Emma Spence will take place.

Following the Kirking ceremony the Principals will gather with the town at Netherdale for the Braw Lads’ Sports which includes face painting and pony rides for youngsters as well as races.

On Monday Braw Lad Cory will lead fellow riders out to the Auld Kirk at Lindean for the Lindean Rideout to lay wreaths at the Preachers Cross.

The Ex-Braw Lads’ and Lasses Association Dinner returns on Tuesday to the Volunteer Hall, along with the Swimming Gala.

On June 28 riders will take part in the Torwoodlee Rideout to visit the Laird of Torwoodlee. The Fancy Dress and Carnival Dance also return on Wednesday.

The Braw Lad and Lass will then be able to welcome visitors from overseas and share their thanks with landowners and supporters at the Civic Reception.

At the Investiture Concert on Friday (June 30) the Braw Lad and Lass will be sashed, before the big day finally arrives on July 1.

Events through the day include:

8am – Braw Lad receives the Burgh Standard

9am – Riders ford the River Tweed to Abbotsford

9.30am – Riders ford the Tweed to Boleside

10am – Gallop over Gala Hill

10.30am – Mixing of the Roses Ceremony

11am – Arrive at Hollybush for rest stop

11.30am – Ride along Scott Street

12pm – War memorial

12.30pm – Ride concludes

7.50pm – March Past of Principals and Roses Ceremony

9pm – Final Fling