HISTORY will be made when the Riding of the Marches returns to Musselburgh for the first time this millennium.

The event, which last took place in 1995, is expected to welcome thousands of people to Musselburgh from this weekend to the end of the month.

A huge variety of events –from the historic Riding of the Marches ceremony itself, featuring a spectacular equestrian cavalcade, to a huge civic procession and a spectacular River Esk light show – are planned over nine days.

Alastair Knowles, chairman of the Riding of the Marches, said: “The Riding of the Marches pays homage to our history, unique in representing each generation and its contribution to a long and illustrious story of the people who have lived in this place since a time before the written word.

“And, just as the story has progressed, so the celebration of the Riding of the Marches has evolved from its modest beginnings as a two-day festival to what is planned now.”

“The Riding of the Marches [RoM] is not just about history, it is about now and moving into the future.”

Another anticipating a busy week was Honorary Provost John Caldwell.

Mr Caldwell said: “The councillors themselves decide who the provost is and this year I was selected for the Riding of the Marches.

“I feel very honoured and privileged.

“It will be a hectic week, with a lot of activities on the go and lots of excitement.”

Fellow ward member Stuart Currie and Musselburgh West Councillor John McNeil were also anticipating a memorable occasion.

Mr Currie said: “It is fantastic.

“One thing which has been really good is the horses around the town.

“It is funny, the amount of times I have seen kids getting their photographs taken on them and next to them is amazing.

“I really think the people involved in organising it seem to have involved the young, the elderly – everyone.”

Mr McNeil added: “I’m excited as most bairns in the town.

“This will be my last official event and I’m looking forward to it and will be assisting the Provost in his job.”

The councillor witnessed the Riding of the Marches events in 1956 and 1995 and was looking forward to the town once again celebrating the historic occasion.

He said: “It will be a great day for a lot of people in the town and for a lot of new people who have come to live here, who will be able to know about what is on.”

George Kerevan, the county’s MP, added: “I’m so proud to be a Patron of the Riding of the Marches.

“This is a historic event, and I’m impressed with the way that the whole community has embraced the opportunity to show Musselburgh off at its best.

“I believe that this is the first time that the organisers have involved the schools and youth organisations like the Guides and Scouts, and I congratulate them on the magnificent effort they have made.

“I’ll be attending an event almost every day of that week, and look forward to celebrating with the Honest Tounsfolk from Sunday onwards.”

Colin Beattie, Midlothian North and Musselburgh MSP, described the Riding of the Marches as “without doubt one of the most significant and historic events in Musselburgh”.

He said: “The cultural importance to the town cannot be overestimated, and the organisers have gone from strength to strength with this year’s programme.

“The range of activities will clearly attract both locals and tourists alike, providing a welcome benefit to Musselburgh’s businesses and economy, and I’m delighted to see that there’s something to entice people of all ages.

“There can’t be many similar events in Scotland that date back to 1682 and I commend all those involved in ensuring Musselburgh’s event builds on its success every 21 years when the Riding is held.

“This town has a unique and vibrant identity that is substantially enhanced by the Riding of the Marches and I very much look forward to taking part in this year’s festivities.

“My hopes are for a substantial attendance and that everyone enjoys themselves, whatever the weather!”

For a full list of what's on and when, click this link.