It came as Provost Jim Henderson revealed the rising costs of the ceremonials.

Meanwhile, Selkirk-based Co-op furniture store NGT has confirmed it is backing the Common Riding to the tune of £2,000. It’s the sixth the year the Dunsdale Haugh outfit has provided support – it is also putting £2,000 into both Hawick Common Riding and the Braw Lads’ Gathering.

Provost Henderson made his financial plea at the Appointment Night concert,

He stressed: “Common Ridings do not come cheap.

“Last year it cost us almost £15,000 to set up and implement our plans for the ceremonies.

“Our grant from Scottish Borders Council of £6,500 was a major contribution; bequests and donations are also extremely important, and we are especially grateful to NGT for their generous sponsorship.

“But a big gap still remains and we hope that the people of Selkirk will once again respond in their usual magnanimous fashion to our annual appeal which will be launched shortly.

“No matter how small, all contributions will be gratefully and enthusiastically accepted.”