The election of Langholm Cornet was held on Friday the 8th of May. The results of the vote were preceded by the public meeting, during which the trustees of the Common Riding gave a report of the year.
Chairman ex-Cornet Kevan Hotson began the meeting by paying tribute to retired Secretary, Kenneth Hill. His tenure as secretary began in 2010, succeeding his father Dick Hill, who held the role from 1971, making their combined service a staggering 54 years. The diligent and dedicated service is a remarkable feat.
Cornet Ewan Patterson was then congratulated on the excellent job he did in 2025, with trustees and members agreeing that he carried out his duties in an exemplary manner. The Right- and Left-Hand Men, Bailey Donaldson and Christopher Tait were also lauded for the way they supported the Cornet. Sponsors, land owners, bands and all those who help and support the Common Riding and its members were thanked for their incredible efforts year on year.
Secretary Ross Mabon then gave his report. Tributes were paid to Diamond Jubilee Cornet Ronnie Hudson, and Jubilee and Semi-Jubilee Cornet John Murray, marking twenty-five years since the Foot-and-Mouth outbreak, at which only the ‘front threi’ took to the hill.
Ross then paid his own tribute to Kenneth Hill, and thanked him for his guidance in succeeding to the role. He noted that three new Common Riding members joined through the year; ex-Cornets Steven Ellwood, Darren Irving, and Andrew Johnstone, and noted the resignation of ex-Cornet Malcolm Devlin, adding that the current members sit at 35.
The main areas of discussion through the year were that the Highland Dancers were unable to attend last year due to issues and restrictions with access to the Castleholm. It is hoped that they will return this year.
The Common Riding colours were also discussed at length throughout the year, with the frequency of Navy Blue seemingly increasing, and the potential to introduce a secondary colour. However, it was noted that no adjustments had been agreed upon, though members would continue to discuss this as the years progress. Last year also marked the final year that Robbie Trussler and his team at Drove Weaving would coordinate the design, order and delivery of the Common Riding tie. Robbie and all who helped were thanked for their efforts over the years.
The final point of discussion was that of the Simmers Fair Night Dance, which has run at a financial loss for a few successive years. Alternative options were discussed, with the final decision being to move the dance this year to Langholm Social Club, along with changing the music to a mix of Scottish Country Dancing and disco.
Treasurer Joyce Bell then made her financial report. Last year was described as a steady year, with the surplus remaining at a similar level to the previous two years, raising no particular areas of concern.
Bar sales showed the most growth last year, with a 17% increase on the year before. Donations and sponsorships were also up by 4%. The Castleholm entrance income was down slightly, however this was offset by sales of Gazebo Pitches around the race track.
Thanks were paid to Joyce Ireland and Becky for their roles as cashiers on the Common Riding day, with Joyce noting how efficiently and accurately they work.
The result of the election was then announced. Tom Henderson secured 401 votes, and Thomas Hope secured 592.
When the meeting was opened to the floor, Colin Irving raised the issue of the bar being low on whisky by the later stages of the Common Riding afternoon. The committee agreed that this was something that could be easily rectified.
Colin Irving then proposed a vote of thanks to the Common Riding Committee and Trustees.
That being all, the meeting was drawn to a close.
