On Friday the 18th of July 2014 the Kirkcudbright Cornets Club held their annual Riding of the Marches ! This is when the boundaries of the old Royal Burgh are marked out as tradition requires. Over 100 horses took place again this year , and huge crowds gathered to watch . This years principles were Cornet Andrew Kerr, Cornet’s Lass Ashley Burns, Pursuivant Fiona Dickson, Lynors Matthew Boyd, Becky Maxwell, Matthew Taylor and Charlotte McDowall. Director of Riding Andie Douglas and Courier Liz Butler
HISTORY.
In the year 1485 Kirkcudbright was given Royal Burgh status by virtue of a Charter granted by King James II. The King granted the lands of Over & Nether Borelands, Millflats, Milnburn, Creekpark, Hughans, Calfward and Castlemains to the townspeople of the Burgh.
A messenger from the King, known as the Pursuivant, was dispatched under escort to Kirkcudbright, carrying with him the Charter and Seal which would make Kirkcudbright a Royal Burgh. As he neared the town a Courier was sent forward to warn of his imminent arrival. The Cornet, a Cavalry Officer of the day, was sent out to meet the Pursuivant, and together they rode round the Boundaries referred to in the Charter.
This act is recreated annually by Kirkcudbright Cornets Club, through their spectacular ceremony of the Riding of the Marches. info from http://www.kirkcudbright.com/dynamic.asp?ID=30
R.B Photography Went along with his camera for DGWGO to photograph the event , R.B was himself Kirkcudbright Cornet back in 1999 so he has a strong connection with this event , and has enjoyed The ridings and many of the celebrations at all of D&G’s Cornets clubs .
We hope you enjoy the Pictures , Copyright to R.B photography , if you wish to use any of the pictures please contact us on [email protected]
