Braw Lads

The official ride to Lindean takes place on Monday evening when the Braw Lad, Braw Lass and their Attendants visit Lindean, where the first parish church in the Galashiels area was situated. There the Braw Lad lays a wreath of wild flowers on the Preachers Cross and an oration is given by the parish minister telling of the development of religion in the Galashiels district. The Lindean Chase completes the evening where the riders take part in horse races for many cups.

Tuesday's official event is the School Childrens' Swimming Gala which is held at Galashiels Swimming Pool. The pool is packed with youngsters hoping to win a medal or two, with the winning school receiving the Douglas Brown Cup. Again the children get to meet the Braw Lad, Braw Lass and their Attendants during the medal ceremony.

It's Fancy Dress night on Wednesday, which takes place in the Scott Park. The judges, as usual have a very difficult job with the many classes which range from the pre school groups to the many decorated floats. The event finishes with a parade through the streets, which hopefully coincides with the Official Party returning from their visit to Torwoodlee. Here the Braw Lad, Braw Lass and their Attendants meet the Laird of Torwoodlee to ask his permission to cut Sod and take a Stone from Torwoodlee Tower. These are then carefully taken back to the Burgh Chambers to be used in the re-enactment of the ancient ceremony of Sasine at the Auld Town Cross on Saturday.

Thursday evening means its time for the Overseas Reception, which is held in the Volunteer Hall. Visitors from overseas, along with other guests, are welcomed by the President of the Gathering and are then entertained to supper, songs and dancing.

When Friday arrives, everyone knows the 'Big Day' is fast approaching. Today it's the turn of the School Visits, where the Official Party visit all the primary and secondary schools in Galashiels to meet Gala's future Braw Lads and Lasses. Art and Essay competitions are judged and many certificates are given out. The youngsters always give the Officials a great welcome and vow to support them tomorrow on Braw Lads' Day.

Friday continues in the evening with the Investiture Concert with the famous Blue Sashes being presented for our principles ceremonial duties the following day.

Next: The Braw Lads' Gathering