Reivers Festival

This weekend saw the seventh Hawick Reivers Festival, celebrating the somewhat lawless past of the Borders.  The reivers were cross-border raiders, whose hobby was stealing English cattle (of course they came and stole it back again - the poor beasts must have been worn out!).  The festival re-enacts life in the 16th century, with people wearing 'authentic' clothing and demonstrating skills, such as archery ...

 

.... the blacksmith .....

 

..... and a lady knitting

 

There was also a wonderful display of fighting skills from an earlier era, with the Knights of Monymusk.  This little boy tried on a pig-faced helmet, but decided he could fight better without it!

 

First, the bold knights marched into the ring and impressed us with their military skills ....

 

..... but then their fierce opponents arrived - the children's army!

 

I wonder who were the victors in this unequal contest?  Yes, of course it was the vicious little thugs lovely little children who won - I think some of the knights will have bruises today!!

 

We just had time for a bowl of stovies for lunch (delicious) before the next performance.  This was a wonderful display of equestrian and fighting skills by Les Amis D'onno.  First came two young ladies, out for a gentle afternoon ride...

 

.... when along comes a dastardly reiver .....

 

..... intent on robbing the young ladies.  But he doesn't realise that the ladies' maid is more than a match for him!!

 

The show reaches a spectacular end .....

As you can see from the photos, it was a lovely bright sunny day (if a little chilly) and we had a most enjoyable day out!

 

So, what's in store for tomorrow's post .... well, I might just have some knitting to show you!