A FESTIVAL named in memory of a young Borders man has been praised by acclaimed musician Billy Kennedy.

The Souter, who was a guitarist in Frightened Rabbit, played at Harris Fest with his new band Haiver.

He was one of a number of entertainers who gave their time voluntarily to play at the inaugural edition of the event in Selkirk. It was created to support the Harris Trust, a charity set up following the death of 19-year-old Borderer Harris Macdonell.

Organisers say they are keen to make the festival an annual event, if there is enough encouragement and support for it.

Headline act Haiver blew away the audience at the family-friendly festival with a pounding performance.

Selkirk’s own Kennedy said: “It was a great pleasure and honour to be involved not only in performing but also in organising the first ever Harris Fest.

“You never know what to expect when putting on shows these days, but this event surpassed all expectations.

“If it continues to be an annual event, I can only see it growing from strength to strength.

“It was such a lovely family-friendly day out, and everyone involved in the festival did an incredible job. Events like this truly showcase the strength of a community”.

Selkirk-based Dere Street was fronted by Erin Highton, who herself leads projects for the Harris Trust.

Hawick’s Devin Casson wowed the crowd.

Other delights were Fire in the Middle (Duns), Blacktooth (Edinburgh/Hawick), Leatherette (Berwick-upon-Tweed), Pat and Andy (Lilliesleaf), and 3 out of 4 (Earlston).

The trust was created in March 2021 following Harris’ death in August 2020.

The Borderer, who was autistic, took his own life after being treated in an adult psychiatric ward.

The charity aims to improve the lives and mental health of neurodivergent young people in the Borders.