A MIXTURE of fun and upholding the Honest Toun’s traditions is in store at this year’s Musselburgh Festival.

Honest Lad Aidan McLaren and Honest Lass Ellen Brown are looking forward to leading the festivities, which start on Saturday.

Alistair Barclay, president of organisers the Honest Toun’s Association, said: “The festival is important to many people in many ways.

“For those who cherish our unique heritage, it’s a time when we use ceremony, celebration and song to describe who we were and, in doing so, create that unique identity of who we are today.

“For those who prefer to enjoy the events the festival run as a time to socialise or shake free the daily pressures of life, there are more than 38 events organised by various committees this year, many free to spectate or take part in.

“There are also those to whom the festival has provided life-long friends and been the future foundation of their families for generations to come.

“Musselburgh Festival is renowned for its warm hospitality shown to our visitors and guests and we look forward to returning this wholehearted welcome to those who will be travelling from near or far to join us.

“To the townsfolk of Musselburgh, and especially those who have recently chosen the Honest Toun as your home, I invite you with open arms to join us and benefit from what is now your unique celebrations.”

Councillor Andy Forrest, Depute Provost of East Lothian, said he was “honoured” to act as honorary provost for the 2023 festival.

He said: “This is the third time I have undertaken this role, firstly in 2019 and in 2022. I have had the privilege to ride at some of the common ridings in the Borders and to witness first-hand the way the whole community has the opportunity to get involved – and Musselburgh is exactly the same.

“This is due to the hard work and dedication of numerous volunteers from many different organisations who help to make the festival a success and they deserve our grateful thanks.

“I look forward very much to this year’s ride, behind the official party as the Honest Lad and Honest Lass carry the burgh flag around our boundaries.”

Playing another key role is football legend Billy Brown, who is the sasher.

He will unsash the 2022 Honest Lad Jack McFarlane and Honest Lass Amy Rooke, and present sashes to their successors Aidan and Ellen at a ceremony on the banks of the River Esk at The Mall on Sunday, from 1pm.

Mr Brown grew up round the corner from Olivebank, the home of Musselburgh Athletic FC, where he was a player and manager. He was assistant manager at both Hearts and Hibs, and volunteers with football teams at Musselburgh Windsor.

Aidan and Ellen are being supported in their duties by Jack and Amy.