A PASSIONATE Souter fulfilled a long-held dream last week.

Mathew Stanners led the celebrations in the town on Friday (June 14) as the 2024 Standard Bearer.

He was ably supported by attendants Nathan Mill, Derry Alexander, Darren Knox and Robbie Reilly.

The 25-year-old followed in the footsteps of his dad, who was Standard Bearer back in 1994.

“Friday was a very emotional day for myself but absolutely magical at the same time,” said Mathew, who attended primary and secondary school in Selkirk and now works in the town.

“To represent Selkirk as the Royal Burgh Standard Bearer is a huge honour and privilege, I’m a very lucky man.”

The action-packed morning started at 4am as the flute band preambled the town with the Rouse Parade.

The Bussin’ on the balcony at Victoria Halls then took place shortly before 7am.

After fording the Ettrick Water, riders made their way up to the Three Brethren before returning to Shawburn Toll ahead of the Casting of the Colours.

The Return of the Burgh Flag ‘unsullied and untarnished’ brought the ceremonial occasion to a conclusion.

“My highlights would be coming in at the Toll and also coming into the Market Place before casting my colours,” said Mathew.

On what advice he’d give to any future Standard Bearer, he added: “Speak to the young and the old of the town.

“Take it all in as it’s over in a blink of an eye and just remember to smile.”