TERIES are queuing up to show why the Common-Riding was crowned one of the best celebrations in the world, with the popularity of this year's events going through the roof.
Common-Riding 2008 had only just begun last Wednesday night when the congratulatory smoker for newly-appointed Cornet Ben Graham was a complete sell-out, with extra chairs needed to seat the 220 men.
On Saturday a record number of riders formed th
e cavalcade for the first ride-out to Bonchester Bridge – while on the same day, tickets for the Common-Riding Ball sold out in 15 minutes – and there's now a waiting list with 54 names on it.
Common-Riding secretary Frank Scott commented: "There is a huge demand for everything so far, so it seems that we must be doing something right. It is great to see, however, it does mean that more people are going to be disappointed."
Also this week, it's been revealed that a staggering 1,057 names were in the ballot for the Colour-Bussing, compared to 828 last year. Only 150 couples will be successful. And even concerts at the Lodge 111, Langlands Court and the Burns Club have been packed, while next week's 1514 concert is practically sold out.
Commenting on the passionate support in the town, Common-Riding Committee chairman Ronnie Nichol said: "The Common-Riding is certainly thriving. It's difficult to put a finger on a reason why, but Cornet Ben Graham is a popular laddie, and in the past few years the Common-Riding Committee has tried to keep things on the right track and make wee changes that make things better."
He added: "I expect there will be an even bigger following for Roberton tomorrow as it is so popular, and the support for everything already says it all. The Cornet and the 'Big Four' are doing a super job, and we are definitely on the rollercoaster now as the excitement builds. All we need now is the sunshine."
In March last year, Rough Guide publication World Party described Hawick Common-Riding as one of "Britain's best-kept secrets". And praised it for "combining the thrills of Pamplona's Fiesta de San Fermin with the concentrated drinking of Munich's Oktoberfest". The Rough Guide also rated Hawick as the best of the traditional Common-Ridings in the Scottish Borders.
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