JETHART Callant's Festival has become the first of the Borders common ridings to fall victim to the coronavirus outbreak.

And many others are expected to follow in the coming week following an emergency meeting for officials from all towns.

The decision to cancel both the declaration night and festival in Jedburgh was made on Wednesday evening.

Ex-Callant Robert MacDonald stated: "In response to the coronavirus crisis that we are all now facing it is with much regret and sadness that we have made the difficult decision to cancel our 2020 Declaration of the Jethart Callant and also our Festival.

"This decision has been reached in light of information received from Government and Scottish Borders Council.

"Whilst the traditions of our town are dear to our hearts, we must act responsibly and consider the health and well being of our townsfolk."

Officials will gather later this year to establish if an event can be still be staged to mark 2020.

Mr MacDonald added: "It may be that before the end of the year, as long as the crisis has passed, we will be able to come together as a community to mark Festival 2020 in some small way.

"We look forward to celebrating a happy, healthy Festival in 2021 with you all when we will celebrate 75 years of the Jethart Callant’s Festival."