Galashiels Braw Lads’ Gathering organisers planning two-minute silence as tribute to war dead and Covid-19 victims

Saturday would have marked the launch of the annual Galashiels Braw Lads’ Gathering in the town had it not been cancelled because of the ongoing crisis.

Its organisers were determined to do something to bring the town together in quiet reflection, though, and that’s why they are asking townsfolk to take part in a two-minute silence at noon in the safety and privacy of their own homes.

Bill White, president of the gathering, said: “On Saturday at 8am, I would normally have handed the burgh flag to our braw lad with his braw lass, and attendants would have carried out various ceremonies throughout the morning, including the raid stane ceremony, fording the Tweed to Abbotsford, the gallop up Gala Hill, mixing of the roses, the ride up Scott Street and, finally, at our memorial, the act of homage as the braw lad dips the flag at midday and we observe two minutes’ silence.

“Sadly, this will not take place this year due to government restrictions, and I urge everyone to observe them.

“I am sure that everyone staying at home will in some shape or form reflect on Saturday afternoon.

“There is, however, one thing we could all do at our front doors, and I hope that everyone will join me in a two-minute silence at midday in remembrance of all the people on our war memorial who gave the ultimate sacrifice in two world wars, and this year it would be appropriate to remember the 42,000-plus people who have lost their lives to this terrible disease.

“We will get through this, and regulations are beginning to relax, so I am confident and looking forward to announcing on Friday, April 23, next year, the braw lad and braw lass for 2021.”

Craig Whitehead, chairman of the event, added: “Sadly, this braw lads’ gathering had to be cancelled due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.

“Whatever your plans I would invite you to partake in a two-minute silence at noon tomorrow to remember the fallen of the two great wars and all that have lost their lives due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.

“This is something we can all do in the privacy of our own gardens or homes and avoid people gathering in public spaces.

“Hopefully, we can look forward to better times in 2021.”