THE second standard bearer for this year's Selkirk Common Riding has been announced.

Nicholas (Nick) Renwick Buttner was named as Selkirk Colonial Society Standard Bearer 2024 following the society's recent annual general meeting.

Nick was the unanimous choice of society members, and his appointment follows last month's announcement by Selkirk Merchant Company that Peter Dallas would carry their flag this summer.

Nick was born in Melbourne, Australia, and has lived and worked in Singapore and the UK.

Now living in Melbourne, Nick - who studied in Melbourne and Cambridge - is a commercial lawyer.

His practice focuses on energy transition projects in the Asia Pacific region.

His maternal grandfather, John Henderson Renwick, was born in Selkirk, while his maternal grandmother, Margaret (Peg) Renwick (née Auld) was born in Australia - however, her parents Marion and Alexander Auld, we both born in Selkirk.

In his appointment, Nick is fulfilling his grandparent's wish.

A Selkirk Colonial Society spokesperson said: "Growing up, Nick remembers being excited when his grandmother would receive a letter from one of her first cousins (Elsie Morison, Gina Howlieson, Peggy Blackie and Ella Wilson) bringing news of Selkirk and, in the middle of each year, the Common Riding.

"Since his first trip with his parents in 2001, Nick has visited Selkirk six times.

"The most memorable visit being in 2013 when, together with his wife (Bec), parents and aunt, he was in Selkirk for the Common Riding.

"Nick recalls the sense of community and tradition that he felt during those days as being something quite special.

"He is very much looking forward to being the 2024 Colonial Standard Bearer."

Following his appointment, Nick has informed the Society that his mother, Helen, will buss his flag.

The Royal Burgh Standard Bearer will be announced at the annual Appointment Night outside Selkirk Town Hall on Friday, April 26.

Any 'exiles', their descendants, or other overseas visitors who are attending this year's Common Riding are asked to contact Selkirk Colonial Society chairman Ian Clapperton, or any member of the society.

For more information and contact details, visit: www.selkirkcolonialsociety.com