STOBO yet again provided the beautiful backdrop for the annual conclusion to this year's summer festival celebrations.

Principals from Biggar, Peebles and West Linton all saddled up for the traditional Spurs ride to Hopehead.

Close to 40 riders in total took part in the three rides from the three towns.

Peebles Cornet Colin Dodds was joined by six mounted followers from the Royal Burgh, while Whipman Gary Ross enjoyed the company of some 14 riders, and a similar number followed Biggar Cornet Fraser McNair on the scenic ride out to Stobo.

This year's event also saw representatives from Edinburgh, Currie and Sanquhar join with the cross-country cavalcades.

Former Biggar Cornet Graeme Weston told us: "We had almost perfect conditions for the ride.

"The Spurs ride is a great way for the three Principals to get together one last time and its a tradition all three towns are keen to keep going.

"There was a good turn out yet again and we had a few people come up by car to meet as well. All in all, it was a good day."

The formal act of friendship between the three communities is marked with presentations of engraved spurs to all three Principals.

And the traditional tipple from the customary quaich is also enjoyed by all supporters during the ceremony at Hopehead.

Following a scenic alfresco lunch each party retraces its steps home.