Annan celebrated its Riding of the Marches and Gala Day with crowds in their thousands cheering on the horse cavalcade and parade at the weekend.
Although it missed out on the soaring temperatures of previous weeks, the Saturday spectacle was well supported with plenty of enthusiasm from the community who always go that extra mile with their colourful themed costumes, dance routines, decorations and musical parade.
It was a tribute to all the hard work put in by the volunteers on the ROM and gala committees and the equality message of the 75th anniversary of Annan’s cornet’s lass role in the ancient boundary riding.
Filled with tradition, horses, massed pipe bands and even a mini Highland games, the day was the culmination of a fortnight of events involving every part of the community from schools to care homes, and a succession of walks and ride-outs to check the Royal Burgh’s marches were still intact.
Cornet Oran Keenan, Cornet’s Lass Kirsty Cooper and Standard Bearer Hilda McClanachan completed the last rideout in the morning following a 5.30am bugle call reveille by Jamie Brydon and the handing over of the Royal Standard.
Following the chases at the Everholm, the cavalcade of more than 90 horses rode onto the High Street to meet Queen of the Border Roxy Nicholson, her champion, Elliot Oakes, and her royal retinue on their float which headed the spectacular loud and colourful parade of pipers and bands, floats, small vehicles, adult and youth walkers, children in fancy dress and vintage tractors.
It was followed by an afternoon of fun at Annan Academy playing fields with Owl Magic, circus skills, fun fair, Bgamba Band, various stalls, performers, the biggest pipe band competition in south west Scotland and a children’s Annan ROM Mini Highland Games.
And the special day ended with a memorable massed pipe bands parade grand finale and prize giving, plus the return of the Royal Burgh Standard for another year.
A statement from the ROM committee said: “What a great day was had by all. A huge thank you goes to all involved with organising and co-ordinating AROM, but an even bigger thank you goes to the townspeople, businesses and sponsors in and around Annan. Without your support the day would not be possible.
“Oran, Kirsty and Hilda, along with their supports Katie and Steven, had an amazing day and very much appreciate all of the well wishes and support they received.
