The first Cornet was W.H. Williamson, the town treasurer, He rode the Marches seated on a brake and was accompanied by two mounted supporters. The position of the cornet was to ride the Burgh boundaries as history outlines and ensure the safety of the Royal and Ancient boundary enhabitants. The local committee at the time made an appeal to the local horsemen to support the Cornet and make a ‘Grand Display’. The photographic evidence of the time shows they did just that.

The Cornet is selected by the Committee from public submissions in the weeks leading up to the Beltane and usually selected around 8 weeks prior to Beltane Week.

The Johnstone family were the first to have a father and son as Cornet, a situation repeated in 2004. The honour of being the only two brother to be Cornet falls to Scott and Gary Anderson, in 1992 and 1994 respectively.

THE CORNET 2008 - Colin Noble

Colin was born in 1977 and was a pupil at Halyrude and Peebles High School. Having played for Peebles Thistle and Tweeddale Rovers, Colin also undertook a coaching role with the former. Colin was instrumental in helping the newly formed Peebles FC attain the SFA Quality mark.

Upon the announcement to the general committee Colin assured them he will carry out his duties as Cornet with great pride and commitment. Telling them “ It is, as it should be a complete honour to be given the position for any Peebles man. Having been lucky enough to be in the Beltane Court as a youngster, (Colin was Royal Herald in 1989), I love the Beltane. It is always a time of excitment, coming together with family and friends and celebrating an amazing week.”

The Head Greenkeeper at Peebles Golf Club, other interests include fishing and attending the gym.

Commenting in the Burgh hall announcement “ Along with my Lass, Katy, I promise to give 100% in representing everyone in the Royal Burgh.”

The Cornet’s Lass is Colin’s wife Katy.