THE 2021 Lauder Common Riding is taking place virtually this week.

In February the committee made the difficult decision to cancel the usual festivities in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

However, everyone has worked hard to make sure that they can still mark the event and celebrate the ancient traditions, in accordance with all relevant government guidelines.

The week began with a message from Lauder Church followed by a message from Lauder Ex Cornets Association, both of which were published and available to view on social media.

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Already some wonderful entries from Lauder Primary School have been received for the art competition.

Primaries 1 to 6 were asked to draw/paint their ‘Thoughts of Common Riding’ (with the pictures making up a very clever circle design!), while Primary 7 were asked to do a poster for Lauder Common Riding. Over 200 entries have been received so far and are being displayed around the town.

One of the highlights of Common Riding Week is the Fancy Dress Parade and winners will be announced on Friday, August 6.

This event will also be in line with current restrictions.

Other popular events include a celebration of the Jubilee Cornets, Best Dressed House, Best Dressed Shop Window, Treasure Trail and Best Dressed Rider.

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There will also be a Mini Gymkhana and the Lauderdale Scouts Duck race.

A virtual concert will be held on Friday with songs and verses from local performers.

Sadly there will be no Riding the Marches on Saturday and no Cornet has been elected this year.

The requirement to check the Royal and Ancient Burgh boundaries will take place at an appropriate time as will the laying of wreaths at the war memorial.

Next week the Border telegraph will publish details of the competition winners along with photos of the various events.