NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2024 St. Ronan’s Standard Bearer and Principal Guest.

Both are leading roles in the historic Innerleithen festival, which takes place this year from July 13-20.

There has been a summer gathering in the town every year since the inception of St. Ronan’s Border Games in 1827, with the exception of periods of global conflict.

St. Ronan’s Games chair Dawn Patterson said: “We are now seeking nominations for candidates to lead the 197th anniversary of the Games. We hope that the public will help the selection committees once again by nominating deserving people for these important positions.”

The Standard Bearer of Innerleithen carries the Blue Banner of St Ronan’s and plays a leading role throughout Games Week.

As a representative of the Burgh, the Standard Bearer travels to neighbouring towns as they celebrate their own festivals during the summer months. The Standard Bearer goes on to be right and left hand supporter and retires from the flag party three years after their year in office. The Standard Bearer is expected to take an active part in the work of the Games Committee during their term of office and beyond.

Meanwhile, the Principal Guest is invited to give the main address during the Cleikum Ceremonies – which will take place on July 19 – and presents St. Ronan and the Dux Girl with their medals. They are involved throughout Games Week.

The Principal Guest is often someone who has been associated in some way with the town through their activities or interests or who has shown a commitment to the life and work of the community. Equally, they may have less current links with the area, but through some association, have an interest in the affairs of Innerleithen and/or St. Ronan’s Games. Principal Guest is a one-year, honorary appointment.

Nominations can be made by emailing names to secretary@stronansgames.org.uk or via the Nomination Box in The Allotment/Innerleithen Post Office, Peebles Road.

The nomination period closes on Thursday, February 1.

The successful candidates will be announced at the Introduction Night on Friday, May 10, in the Memorial Hall.