Cornet Chris's big week is under way

Ashleigh Scott, Hagen Steele, Caitlin Megahy, Chris Rogerson, Jennifer Cook and Greg Scott. PHOTO: KENNY WHITE.

Lauder Common Riding got off to a rather wet start on Sunday, but that failed to dampen the spirits of this year’s cornet, Chris Rogerson.

The 21-year-old auctioneer and his lass, Caitlin Megahy, were all smiles on Sunday as the week officially got under way with the kirking in Lauder Parish Church.

Chris Rogerson is flanked by the town's previous cornets ahead of Sunday's kirking ceremony. PHOTO: KENNY WHITE.

And while that afternoon’s children’s sports and fun day in the public park had to be cancelled due to the wet weather, the sun reappeared just in time to shine on the little riders taking part in Monday morning’s apprentice ride.

“It was a shame the sports were cancelled, but the kirking went very well and it was a great night afterwards,” Chris said. “The apprentice ride was dry, and it was a great turnout of 54 riders. It was good to see the little ponies going faster than me. Some of them could really run.”

Looking ahead to Saturday, he admitted: “I’m a bit nervous but very excited as well.

“I’m really looking forward to Thursday night’s ride, and Saturday is going to be an amazing experience.”

Saturday’s celebrations start at 7am, with a cornet’s march from the Lauderdale Hotel to the town hall, where the cornet receives the burgh standard at 8am. Riders arrive at the watering stane around 9.50am for refreshments and songs. The cavalcade continues to the war memorial for 11.30am. The concluding ceremony takes place at noon in the town hall featuring presentations and a colour bussing. There’s music and dancing at the Lauderdale Hotel from 3pm, dancing in Market Place at 5pm, and a ball in the marquee at 7.30pm.