CROWDS turned out for Melrosian Appointment Night on Friday evening.

The traditional event, which took place at the Corn Exchange on Friday, May 3, was hosted by Chairman Rob Moffat.

Robin Sharp was officially appointed as Melrosian for 2024, with last year’s Melrosian Will Owen taking on the role of Right Hand Man.

Robin and Will were also joined by Lachlan Gaddie who was introduced as Left Hand Man – he will take on the responsibility of being Melrosian in 2025.

Mr Moffat said: “Melrose Festival Appointment night was well supported on Friday night.

“It was great to see a good turnout from the community and also a healthy number of principals from neighbouring towns.

“Robin Sharp (Melrosian elect for 2024 ) spoke of how proud he was to be formally elected Melrosian for this year and Lachlan Gaddie was introduced as Left Hand Man for this year (he will be Melrosian next year).

“Will Owen, last year’s Melrosian and this year’s Right Hand Man, also spoke of how much he had enjoyed his year in office.

“Douglas Crawford made his last speech as a principal speaking how much the last few years had meant to him and how proud he had been to represent the town.

“The Queen, her Court and Lead Cyclists were then introduced to the audience and were given a very warm welcome.

“After, the Melrosian was traditionally carried round the Mercat Cross everyone enjoyed a buffet and refreshments in the Ormiston Rooms.”

During the event, the Melrose Festival Queen and Court were also announced, along with the winner of the art competition and the lead cyclists.

This year’s Queen is Ruby Jackson.

She will be supported by:

First Attendant – Effie Lindsay; Second Attendant – Poppy Dodds; Courtier, Proclamation – Angus McCarthy; Courtier, Crown and Sceptre – Jamie Ferrando; Heralds – Tom Hume and Marek Bogus; Trainbearers – Jemima Murray and Ailsa Murray; Lead Cyclist 1 – Ann Lau; Lead Cyclist 2 – Ava Douglas-Smith; Lead Cyclist 3 – Thalia Dunbar.

The winner of the John Frater Trophy for Art is Poppy Dodds.