FURIOUS families have threatened to boycott one of the oldest Common Ridings in the Borders after its annual fancy dress parade featured a float with characters dressed as disgraced TV star Jimmy Savile and his schoolgirl victims.

Lauder Common Riding officials this week revealed they refused to ban members of its Twenty10 Club from future festivities despite its controversial entry into the competition, which was named Jim'll Fix It, after the shamed BBC presenter's former television show.

And, despite complaints from concerned parents, it went on to win third prize in the Best Vehicle category.

Local MSP Christine Grahame has branded the controversial stunt "distasteful". Speaking to the Border Telegraph, she said: "I can understand why there has been some disquiet. Floats are supposed to be for fun and families."

But she added: "I have to say that I think this was really pretty bad taste."

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