EACH year, I look forward to marking my calendar with all the events during the Musselburgh Festival.

The festival is back with a bang this year and I find myself enjoying each year better than the last.

This year, I attended the Kirkin’ of the Honest Lad Billy Innes and Honest Lass Eilidh Bonthron, the Sashing, and the Saturday festival day. I hope Billy and Eilidh enjoyed their part in this year’s festival – they have been great ambassadors for Musselburgh.

The festival is a great opportunity to bring the community together to celebrate the traditions of the Honest Toun and enjoy the social and sporting activities for all ages. In an era where digital interactions can be the norm, these events offer a refreshing opportunity for people to come together, celebrate shared values and strengthen communal bonds.

In a world where communities are increasingly diverse and dynamic, gala events provide a unifying thread. They celebrate our shared sense of community and remind us of the power of coming together for a common cause. Galas are not just social gatherings; they are the lifeblood of our communities, driving social, economic and cultural vitality.

Additionally, the festival brings significant financial contributions to the local economy. Musselburgh wouldn’t be as great as it is without the services of local businesses, and the festival is a great chance to display your business to a myriad of new customers.

The influx of visitors attending these events also benefits local restaurants, pubs, hotels and shops, providing a welcome economic boost. For many small businesses, the festival can be crucial for their sustainability.

I would like to finish by recognising all the hard work of all those involved in organising another successful Musselburgh Festival. The festival would not be what it is without the communities in East Lothian. I hope you all enjoyed yourself as much as I did, and I look forward to experiencing it all again next year.