Braw Lad Bruce Dorward and attendants Stuart Keddie and Iain Rackham join children sueing the fancy-dress contest and parade in Scott Park.Braw Lad Bruce Dorward and attendants Stuart Keddie and Iain Rackham join children sueing the fancy-dress contest and parade in Scott Park.
Braw Lad Bruce Dorward and attendants Stuart Keddie and Iain Rackham join children sueing the fancy-dress contest and parade in Scott Park.

IN PICTURES: A look back at the Braw Lads’ Gathering in Gala 1970

Galashiels’ biggest day of the year in 1970 saw thousands of Galaleans and visitors alike turn out to support its annual braw lads’ gathering in spite of what was reckoned to be the worst weather the event had ever had to contend with.

A wonderful pattern of enthusiasm and happiness was set by braw lad Bruce Dorward and his lass, Valerie Lyall, along with their attendants, all embracing their duties with a great amount of keenness.

They were given never-ending support by the four attendants, bearer of the sod Stuart Keddie, bearer of the red roses Mary Meehan, bearer of the stone Iain Rackham and bearer of the white roses Pat Barnes...here’s all the Southern’s old photos from that day.