The Exiles return
Selkirk Colonial Society welcomed a great many returning Souters and visitors to their annual Colour Bussin’ Concert in the Victoria Hall on Wednesday 11th June. It was certainly a case of ‘’a’ the airts’’ as the visitors were introduced to the audience by Guest Chair Angela Williamson with countries ranging from Canada and USA to Australia, and from Sweden and Norway to France and Germany all getting a mention. The ‘’exiles’’ were gathered to witness the installation of 2025 Colonial Standard Bearer Brenton Barbian, from USA.
Society Chairman Ian Clapperton presided alongside Guest ChairAngela Williamson, the Lady Busser from 2002.
The Standard Bearer’s wife, Marta, bussed the flag and Brentonthanked the Society for allowing him the opportunity to fulfill his long–term ambition of carrying the ‘’golden banner’’ of the Colonial Society. Although American by birth, Brenton married into a ‘’weel kent’’ Selkirk family, and he now considers himself an adopted Souter.
Honorary Provost Rodney Pow, the Royal Burgh Standard Bearer Darren Knox and his Burleymen and Attendants attended the Bussin’ Concert. Alan and Bev Elliott from the Edinburgh and Midlothian Souter’s Society presented RBSB Knox with theirSociety Medallion, strengthening the century long links with the Colonial Society and Common Riding.
Entertaining the audience were local singers Ian Wilson, Julie Craig and Lewis Hislop accompanied by Derek Calder and Hilary Bell. Music was provided by the Silver Band.
The concert concluded with a vote of thanks from Colonial Society Chairman Ian Clapperton. He thanked everyone for coming tonight and wished everyone a Hail Smilin’ Morn and for the riders, Safe Oot, Safe In, before the exiles and overseas visitors retired upstairs for the traditional Society Reception.
