AS the sun went down behind Stirches on Wednesday night, Common-Riding fever was sweeping the town as huge crowds gathered to welcome 2008 Cornet Ben Graham.
Hordes of children could barely contain their excitement outside Trelawney, in Stirches Road, while the crowds listened for the first sounds of the Drums and Fifes.
Then, accompanying halberdier Robert Payne, the small lane leading to the house wa
s suddenly filled with the band and those familiar strains, before Halberdier Payne knocked on the door to deliver the letter, and Hawick had its 2008 Cornet.
Emerging for the traditional strive – which was greeted in a hail of excitement and dust – along with his Right-Hand man Graham Robertson, Left-Hand man Craig Reid and Acting-Father Kevin Crowford – Cornet Graham beamed with pride. And as the Big Four set off for the walk round the town, linked with and surrounded by scores of proud young Teries, the smiles on their faces said it all.
Common-Riding chairman Ronnie Nichol congratulates Ben on his appointment
Cornet Graham told us: "I feel so proud and excited. It all really started to sink in when I saw the ex-Cornets coming into my house. The whole night was tremendous."
Afterwards at the congratulatory smoker in the town hall, Cornet Graham spoke of the honour bestowed upon him, and his excitement since that first knock on the door four months ago.
Ronnie Nichol, Common-Riding chairman commented: "Ben was absolutely wonderful on Wednesday night and spoke really well at the smoker, which was the busiest I've seen it in 30 years. I am delighted for both our Cornet and Acting-Father Kevin, who is also an excellent speaker."
He added: "There is no doubt in my mind that Ben will be a great Cornet. He is so enthusiastic and certainly realises the sincerity of what it all means."
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