TORRENTIAL rain, particularly on the final day of the Borders Book Festival, didn’t dent the enthusiasm of lovers of printed and spoken words.

Brollies and clothes more suited to winter insulated most against the inclement weather.

And huge queues snaked from talks to book signings with some of the biggest names in the literary field.

Steely Scottish grit saw ice cream sellers and hot drink vendors equally inundated with customers; while bars were full, though perhaps only as they offered shelter between events.

And audiences filled marquees to hear authors, artists and musicians as heavy rain splattered down outside.

Even security staff sheltering under umbrellas at vehicle entrances dotted around the Harmony House site remained cheerful.

Alistair Moffat, the festival’s director, said: “The Borders Book Festival had another record-breaking year with ticket sales exceeding 2023’s total.

“Despite the occasional refreshing shower, crowds flocked to Harmony Garden in Melrose to pack out events.

“For me the highlights were the sparkling Louise Minchin and her book ‘Fearless’ and Kate Humble talking about the pleasures of home.

“Patrick Grant packed the main marquee and on Saturday night Rory Bremner was on top form as audiences rocked with laughter.

“In an event unique to the Borders Book Festival, Sally Magnusson remembered the centenary of Eric Liddell’s gold medal at the Paris Olympics of 1924 in the company of Allan Wells, winner of gold in 1980 and Eilidh Doyle winner of multiple track titles.

“The children’s festival was wonderful as families filled the marquees and the wee ones listened and laughed.

“I felt that this year’s event sparkled more than it ever has as the Borderers turned out to celebrate stories, authors – and themselves.”