Wardens


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The Warden of the Cross Kirk and the Warden of Neidpath were introduced into the festival proceedings in 1930 and 1929 respectivley.

The original idea for the Warden of Neidpath was conceived in the 1920s and eventualy confirmed in 1929. The honour first went to Dr. Clement Bryce Gunn the founder of the idea. The Warden of Neidpath ceremony takes place on the Wednesday night of Beltane Week. The Warden delivers an address to the newly installed Cornet and then delivers a speech to the gathered crowds.

Dr. Gunn was also was the driver behind the Warden of the Cross Kirk and in 1930 he was also given this honour with the Cross Kirk ceremony being introduced to announce the beginning of the Beltane Festival week. Dr. Gunn was the first warden and continued until 1933 when his untimely death meant the honour was then shared between the Christian demoninations of the Parish. To this day the honour is still taken up the the religious denominations with great pride.




		Warden of Neidpath - Tom Swanston A life built around the Beltane, that’s how Tom can be described. First Courtier in 1954 and then Cornet in 1965, Tom is also a member of the Callants’ Club (formally he has been a Chief Callant)Tom is also a member of the Guildry Corporation (a former Dean of Guild no less), memeber of Peebles Golf Club and is involved in the Cubs and Boys Brigade Other hobbies(when he has the time) include walking, reading, golf and swimming. After his appointment Tom states” I am so proud that you consider me worthy of such an honour. My mother used to have an old saying ‘ whats’s for ye will no gaun past ye’ and I am so honoured that this honour has come to me and will endeavour to be a worthy Warden of the Neidpath. I promise to uphold the traditions of the Beltane.”


		Warden of the Cross Kirk - Father John Robinson Father John trained for the priesthood at Drygrange, near Earlston after a spell as a gas fitter. he then had a number of parishes, including Our lady and St Joseph in Peebles, St Andrew in Galashiels and St Joseph in Selkirk. before moving on to the Sacred heart in Penicuik. he now takes Mass in various parishes in the Diocese os St Andrews and Edinburgh. Commenting on his appointment. “I am delighted to be asked back to fulfill the role again. I am really looking forward to being Warden of the Cross Kirk.”


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