Riding the Bounds, Berwick upon Tweed, Scengland
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Every year on May 1 the “Riding of the Bounds” takes place in Berwick upon Tweed. In 1438 Berwick became part of England after changing hands between England and Scotland several times. Berwick lies 3 miles from the Scottish border and I call the area Scengland. The “Riding of the Bounds” was initiated to check that the area was secure, presumably from the Scots.
Leaving the Barracks
Riders gather at the Barracks Square. A piper heralds the start of the procession, led by a Marshall holding the Berwick flag. down to the Guildhall to request the Mayor’s permission to secure the boundaries.
Heading down Marygate to the Guildhall
The Mayoral party on the Guildhall steps
The riders then set off on their mission, halting traffic on the A1, check for marauding Scots and then report back that all is secure handing back the Berwick flag.
“Riding the Bounds” is rather perverse in the current climate as recent opinion polls show that 60 - 80% of Berwick residents would like Berwick to be part of Scotland, mainly because of higher per capita public spending in Scotland, so perhaps the ceremony will have to renamed “Redrawing the Bounds”?
May 2nd, 2008 at 9:52 pm
I just wondered if you had any more photos of Riding of the Bounds Berwick 2008. I was taking part and was trying to get hold of some photos.
Many thanks.
May 2nd, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Tracey, I didn’t get many good photos, too many cars, spectators in way, camera batteries ran out at crucial moment, movement of horses etc. I already deleted most of them. The ones in the post are the best. Many other people were taking photos maybe they have some better ones.
June 10th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Hey, I was chief marshal i was jsut wondering if you any any pics you could get to me, im trying to collect as many as possible!
June 10th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Sorry Steph, I don’t have any more photos.