But the emotions and the memories remain long after the flag is returned safely to the Burgh Chambers and the dust has settled on Scott Street.

This year, emotions ran high and, in near perfect conditions, Saturday's ceremonies proved a huge success, bringing an end to another fantastic programme of events.

For some, it was about reflecting on Galashiels' great history and remembering the sacrifices made to protect the town's heritage. For others, it was a chance to join with family and friends on traditional rideouts along the boundaries and across the Borders' beautiful landscape.

Some may remember little beyond the men's breakfast on Saturday but, for most, the Gathering is a chance to celebrate that community spirit which binds Galaleans of all ages and rests at the heart of festivals and common ridings across the region.

Above all though, the hour belonged to Braw Lad Jamie Hind and Braw Lass Lauren Horsburgh who proved a hugely popular choice with the crowds, winning the cheers and support of onlookers throughout their duties. And it was an emotional time for the pair who had to fight back the tears at various points during the day.

Braw Lass Lauren found herself overwhelmed by the experience following a flawless display mixing the roses at the Old Town Cross, where she shared a poignant moment with Ex-Braw Lasses Amy Quinn and Emma Carlyle.

"I started to cry as I came down from the platform," she said. "I was looking at Amy and Emma and they were crying and it set me off too. There was a bit of relief that I got it right.

"The whole day was a blur. It's just passed so quickly, but it's been an amazing experience."

For Jamie too, the day's duties marked the culmination of intense preparation which paid off at the war memorial when he held his nerve while dipping the flag on an unsettled mount. And following a tearful handover of the flag, it was hard to find the words to describe the whole experience.

"It's been absolutely fantastic and a great honour," he explained. "It's unbelievable how quickly it goes by, but it's been brilliant. I can't think of anything better than doing this."

The day started well at the Burgh Chambers where the Braw Lad accepted the Burgh Flag from the Gathering president to cheers from the crowds before leading principals Ex-Braw Lads David Anderson and Phillip Halliday and Ex-Braw Lasses Amy and Emma to the Raid Stane ceremony, and then on to Abbotsford where they received roses from Executive Manager of Abbotsford Trust Jacquie Wright.

They then rejoined the cavalcade to lead the gallop over Gala Hill before returning to the Old Town Cross for the Mixing of the Roses ceremony.

A visit to the Laird of Gala was then followed by the excitement of the cavalcade galloping up Scott Street to the delight of the crowds lining the street.