NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2019 St Ronan's Standard Bearer and Principal Guest.

The Innerleithen festival takes place this year from July 13 through to July 20.

St Ronan’s Border Games Committee began inviting nominations this week.

Chairman Alan Patterson said: "We are now seeking nominations for candidates to lead the 192nd Anniversary of the Games.

“We have been running the public nomination process for the last few years and we hope that the public will help the selection committees once again by nominating deserving people for these important positions."

Nominations, which will close on Friday, March 1, should be made in writing to joint secretary, K.J. Belleville, Braeside, Wells Brae, Innerleithen, EH44 6JE or by email to KJBelleville@aol.com . Correspondence must include the full name and address of the person being nominated, the post that they are being nominated for (Standard Bearer or Principal Guest) along with an explanation for the reason for the nomination.

The nomination must also be signed and have the full name and address of the proposer.

STANDARD BEARER

The Standard Bearer of Innerleithen is introduced on May 10 and installed during Games Week. He carries the Blue Banner of St Ronan’s and plays a leading role throughout Games Week. He is the representative of the Burgh and travels with his Lass and Supporters to neighbouring towns as they celebrate their own festivals during the summer months. The Standard Bearer goes on to be right and left hand supporter and retires from the flag party three years after his own year in office. The Standard Bearer is expected to take an active part in the work of the Games Committee during his term of office and beyond.

PRINCIPAL GUEST

The Principal Guest is invited to give the main address during the Cleikum Ceremonies (July 19) and presents St Ronan and the Dux Girl with their medals. He or she is involved throughout Games Week. The Principal Guest is often someone who has been associated in some way with the town through his or her activities or interests or who has shown a commitment to the life and work of the community. Equally, he or she may have less current links with the area, but through some association, have an interest in the affairs of Innerleithen or St Ronan’s Games. Principal Guest is a one year, honorary appointment.