The glittering event will take place in a large marquee in the grounds of the Lauderdale Hotel on Saturday, August 1.

The last three balls have been held at the Lodge Hotel at Carfraemill.

So when the Common Riding committee received its share of the special Return To The Ridings grant funding to celebrate the Year of Homecoming, the decision was made to bring the ball back to Lauder.

“The ball has always been a magnificent event and a great way to see out our festivities, and it’s great to have it back on our own doorstep,” said committee secretary Elaine Brotherstone.

“We are encouraging everyone to extend an invitation to their friends and relatives from outwith Scotland to come back to Lauder for the Common Riding and ball.

“As ever, demand for tickets will be high, so we are advising people to get theirs early.”

The ball, which features popular band Rocking Horse, begins at 8.30pm, with the traditional grand march at 9pm.

Tickets, priced £30 each, are now available from Chris Mackie at Blackchester, Lauder, on 01578 722551.