THE new Honest Lad and Honest Lass are preparing for a week of fun events for the Musselburgh Festival, as they begin their duties representing the town over the coming months.

Kieran Davidson and Mhairi Braby will lead the Kirkin’ Parade through the town on Sunday morning as it makes its way to St Michael’s Parish Church, Inveresk, for the traditional Kirkin’ Service.

And on Sunday evening, the Harbour Ceremony will see the official party leaving on the boat at about 5pm.

Kieran and Mhairi were chosen to represent the town in May and will also undertake a range of visits to community centres and facilities across the county, as well as events further afield as part of their roles.

Kieran, who was an attendant last year, described being named Honest Lad as an emotional thrill.

He said: “I was elated when my name was announced and I couldn’t help but break down and cry with tears of joy.” As in previous years, celebrations actually start before the formal launch with a family fun event tomorrow (Saturday).

The Family Cycle, organised by Musselburgh Roads Cycling Club, takes place near the BMX track behind Musselburgh Racecourse stables and covers a four-mile route, with shorter ones on offer for youngsters.

The ride is open to all ages and anyone can join in, although safety helmets must be worn by all those taking part.

On Monday evening, the Crusaders’ Chase will leave the Roman Bridge at 5.45pm, as the official festivities continue in the town.

This will lead to the beach gallop, which is due to take place at about 8pm.

Organisers of the Musselburgh Festival are appealing to people to ensure children and dogs are off the beach until the ride is fully passed for their safey and that of the riders.

There will also be a duck race for youngsters at 6pm on Monday evening, with tickets, costing £1 each, available from the Crusaders, or on the bridge.

And for the grown-ups, the annual Crusaders’ Chase Night Dance will be in Eskmills Bowling Club from 10pm, with tickets again available via the Crusaders’ website.

The scarecrow competition returns after the success of last year’s contest and judging of the best dressed scarecrows, the best shop window displays and house and garden decorations takes place across the town on Tuesday.

Tuesday evening will also see the community five-a-side football tournament held at Musselburgh Rugby Club.

On Wednesday, it is the turn of the youngsters to show off their equestrian skills with the Junior Ride Out, which leaves from Inveresk Industrial Estate at 4.45pm.

The Sashing Ceremony will be held at 7pm at The Mall, although it will move inside to Northesk Church if the rain returns.

Next Thursday (July 23), the popular Festival Tea Dance will be held in The Brunton, with tickets still on sale at Wilson’s Fruit Shop.

Next Friday (July 24) sees the fancy dress parade take to the streets, with judging held beforehand at Loretto Primary School. The parade moves off from Pinkie Road at 7pm.

And next Saturday is the Ride Out, which leaves Pinkie Pillars at 8am. Riders are expected to return to the Town Hall with the flag at 12.45pm shortly before a family fun day starts at the racecourse from 1pm.

The annual festival dinner dance is held next Saturday night (July 25) in The Brunton and next Sunday the festival week comes to an end with the Raft Race, which takes place in Fisherrow Harbour from 2pm.