The Honest Toun’s more senior residents are being invited to help raise funds for next year’s historic Riding of the Marches festivities with the return of the popular tea dance.

Ian Buchanan is returning to The Brunton to provide music for the afternoon dance, which proved a big hit last year.

Organisers are appealing to the town’s over 75s in particular to support the dance, which will help raise funds for a number of free events during next year’s once-in-a-generation celebrations, including some organised for older residents.

Kerra McKinnie, chairwoman of the Riding of the Marches Entertainment Committee, said: “We are trying to provide something for everyone and are planning to put on three free events for over-75s at Eskmills next year.

“The money raised at this year’s tea dance will help pay for next year’s events, which we hope will be attended by as many people as possible, as we want everyone in the town to benefit from this once-in-a-generation event.” The tea dance is being held on Friday, September 4, between 2pm and 4.30pm, with tickets, costing £5, available from Wilson’s the Grocers, High Street, by emailing events@rom2016.co.uk or on the door.

The Riding of the Marches happens once every 21 years in Musselburgh and dates back to at least 1682, but is believed to go back centuries earlier. It is a week-long celebration and pageantry, and celebrates the ancient boundaries of the burgh.

The official party – under the close protection of the armour-clad town champion – tours 12 boundary stations around the town to cut a sod turf and proclaim “it’s a’oor ain!”.

Although the ROTM has undergone many changes in form and purpose, it still provides a sense of occasion and an opportunity for the whole community to celebrate the history and traditions of the burgh.