About
‘The Gallant Few’ are a newly formed, passionate Hawick Common Riding Club. A Club that will strive ti uphold and maintain the History, Customs and Traditions. The members believe that oor Common Riding should be loved and looked efter.
Some of the original members of The Galant Few have their photo taken with the 2019 Principals. Photo by ILF Imaging
The club was initially formed during the 500th Anniversary o’ Hornshole. On Common Riding Friday in 2014, before the day's proceedings really began, these men gathered in Wellogate Cemetery to pay their respects to Hawick Worthies of old, characters that have made the Common Riding what it is today. They mustered at Robert Hunters grave for the start of proceedings where the soond o’ the Cornets Band strikes up and echoed through the Cemetery. Quite an eery moment indeed. The clubs members have continued to do this every year thereafter.
The Gallant Few are willing to help the Common Riding in anyway possible. In recent years the members have helped with tidying up Hornshole aswell as trying to revive the numbers attending events where numbers have been dwindling in recent years such as the snuffing and the Cornets walk round the town immediately after the tying of the ribbons. In 2021 the club felt it was fitting to restore Ex Cornet George Aitkens headstone which lay flat in Wilton cemetery to mark his 70th year since he carried the banner blue.
The last few Common Ridings has also seen ‘The Gallant Few’ provide the traditional dish of Curds & Cream to be served on arrival at St Leonards on Common Riding morn. The club will look to continue this role in the future.
In 2018, a Club tie was designed and produced by ‘James Morton Ties’. The prominant red, ti match that of the Cornets Sash. The Drum & Fife as the centre piece. With silhouettes of ‘The Horse’ throughout the design. Very different ti the majority o’ Common Riding Club and Cornets ties o’ today.
The first club Dinner was held in the November of 2019 with each member inviting a single guest of their choice. A great social night was had by all with laughter and song accompanying a three-course-meal right from the top drawer. This is something the Club will look to expand and grow in the coming years.
Whilst Hawick has heirs, from sire to son,
The tale will still be told.
Of slayer slain, of Standard won,
Down here in days of old.
No fear enthrals the Teri,
Such memory will wane.
As sure forget in life our part,
Or our dear loved refrain