Two worthy candidates have put their names forward for the election of Cornet. Tom Henderson stands for the first year, while Thomas Hope stands for the third year.
Both have a shared passion for Langholm Common Riding which is encyclopaedic, and would each do Langholm proud.
It is a promising sign that so many of our young men continue to choose to stand for Cornet, and stands the future of Langholm Common Riding in great stead. It goes to show that passion, enthusiasm, and love for Langholm Common Riding continues to grow and thrive across the generations.
Tom David Henderson is 21 and works as a Sales Assistant in Latimers of Langholm. His parents are Barry Henderson and Gill Corrie. Barry is a member of the Castle Craigs. This is Tom’s first year standing for Cornet.
Tom joined the Castle Craigs in 2017 when his now colleague Stuart Murray was Cornet. He has ridden the Castle Craigs every year since, and has ridden the Common Riding every year since 2019. Tom is also an active member of the Castle Craigs Committee, and holds the record for most members’ books sold. Tom joined the Young Riders at an early age and has been a keen participant in Young Riders events since.
In his spare time, Tom plays football for Langholm Legion, and is a keen supporter of Langholm Flapping. He is also a member of Langholm Social Club Committee, and is a keen carpet bowler.
Thomas David Hope is 26 and works as an Agricultural Officer for the Scottish Government. His parents are David and Marion Hope. Both his parents have ridden the ride outs in the past, with David a member of the Castle Craigs. This is Thomas’s third year standing.
Thomas joined the Castle Craigs in 2011 when Lee Earsman was cornet, going on to ride the Common Riding in 2012 and has carried on riding ever since. He is also an active member of both the Common Riding and Castle Craigs, and took over as Common Riding Bar Convenor in 2023. Thomas has also attended other border Common Ridings and festivals on horseback.
In his spare time, Thomas plays rugby for Langholm, and has previously been selected for the South District Union team. He has also volunteered as referee for Langholm Youth Rugby events, is a member of Langholm Golf Club, and is also a keen carpet bowler.
Voting will be held at the Buccleuch Centre from 6pm until 8pm on Friday the 8th of May.
Taylors Funfair will be attendance at the Kilngreen for the festivities.