The Heart of the Muckle Toon: Electing the Cornet 🐎✨

There is no night quite like Election Night in Langholm. The atmosphere is electric as the town gathers, waiting with bated breath for the official announcement of the man who will carry the Burgh Standard and lead the grand traditions of the Common Riding. It is a massive honour, a deep responsibility, and the ultimate dream for many local young men.

A massive, heartfelt congratulations to our new leader, Cornet Hope! 🎉

Carrying the hopes, pride, and history of Langholm on horseback is a legendary task, and we know you will do the Muckle Toon proud. The countdown to the last Friday of July is officially on!

An’ Muckle Toon Ayn

The Epsom Derby Connection: How Langholm Chooses Its Common Riding Colours 🐎✨

While most Scottish Border towns have permanent civic colours used year after year, Langholm does things a little differently—and it all comes down to a unique racing tradition dating back to the 1880s.

The colours for the ribbons, rosettes, ties, and horse browbands worn by the Cornet, Ex-Cornets, and festival officials are chosen directly from the racing colours of the owner of the winning horse in the Epsom Derby that same year!

Because the Derby takes place in early June, the whole of the "Muckle Toon" eagerly watches the famous English classic race to find out exactly what colours they will be proudly wearing when the last Friday of July rolls around. Over the years, there have been attempts to establish "permanent" colours for Langholm, but the townspeople wouldn't have it—they fiercely protect this unpredictable and exciting piece of Common Riding history!