LEADING as this year's Melrosian-elect, is 24-year-old Douglas Crawford.

Douglas, who is currently studying a Masters degree in Performance Psychology at the University of Edinburgh, was revealed as the new Melrosian at the annual Ex-Melrosian Burns Supper last weekend.

Douglas told us: "I'm really excited, I'm looking forward to the summer now.

"It was a really good night, the speakers were fantastic, last year's Melrosian, Ben, spoke well.

"I had a lot of family there so it was really special to be announced."

Douglas will join other members of his family, including his father, who have taken up the role of Melrosian in the past, which he said makes the honour "even more special."

He added: "I and my family are so grateful for this opportunity.

"I'm just looking forward to the festivities getting underway."

The Corn Exchange played host to the sell-out evening on Saturday, January 25, celebrating the Bard's birthday where guests were entertained by an outstanding lineup of speakers and entertainers.

Stephen Amos gave the Immortal Memory and the Toast to the Lassies was made by Melrosian 2019, Ben Magowan, which was matched by an excellent reply from Rev. Rosie Frew.

The Address to the Haggis was undertaken by Douglas's father, Michael Crawford, and Annabel Crawford performed the Tam o' Shanter.

A new approach was taken to the toast and reply to Town and Trade at this year's supper, as Christopher Bell and Gary Flannigan performed a Melrose version of 'Mastermind' and 'News at 10'.

The vote of thanks was proposed by retiring Left Hand Man, Russell Mackay.

This year's week-long Melrose Festival will take place between Sunday, June 14 and Saturday, June 20.

The Rideout will be on June 15, and the Crowning of the Festival Queen will be on June 18.