The new Kelso Laddie was introduced to cheering crowds on Friday evening as sunshine streamed into the town’s historic Georgian Square.
Proud Calum Thomson of Tanners Court, told TheSouthern: “I’m thrilled to bits. I’m looking forward to the Yetholm ride, the bussing, carrying the Burgh Standard on the Saturday and going to the other Borders towns visiting the other principals.”
The 20-year-old will have plenty of help from his best pal, Callum Vickers, last year’s Kelso Laddie who is this year’s Right Hand Man, and Left Hand Man Phil Hume.
And there’s always his dad, David, to ask for advice, for his father was Kelso Laddie in 1984. Mum Vera and sister, Emma, 19, are also delighted for Calum: “My family are really chuffed,” he said.
The young golfer attended Broomlands Primary and Kelso High Schools before becoming a joiner for the Duke of Roxburghe.
He describes his horse riding skills as “mediocre”: he first took lessons last year to follow Callum and will be brushing up for the summer.
Also introduced on Friday night were the Lady Bussers, house captain Carly Thom, 11, and 12-year-old Fiona Lessenger of Broomlands Primary School, and from Edenside Primary School, p7 pupil Ellie Scott, 11 and vice-house captain, Holly Hay, 12.
All said they were proud to be chosen and were looking forward to the mid-week ceremony when they will buss the Burgh Standard and dance a reel.