Lanimer Week events

Lanark's traditional ceremonies, some going back almost 900 years, kick off this Sunday with the Kirkin' of the next Lord Cornet.

And 41-year-old Geoff Smith has been pronounced fit to carry out his duties, despite a bad injury earlier in the year.

Geoff dislocated his elbow playing rugby which meant Geoff — who had never ridden before March — missed eight weeks of riding lessons.

However, with intensive physiotherapy and coaching, he is confident that he can take part in all the equestrian events.

"I will be able to do everything that is required of me," he said.

"I have had some good lessons out at the Equi Centre and at Lasswade."

Fortunately Geoff, a police constable, has always been fit; he is a past captain of Lanark Rugby Club, plays cricket, and a keen cyclist.

His Lanimer duties begin on Sunday when, accompanied by two pipe bands, Lord Cornets and local dignitaries, he will lead the procession from the Harry Smith Complex at 11.30am, down to St Nicholas Church for his Kirkin' at noon.

On Monday, the Perambulation of the Marches sets out from the Lindsay Institute in Lanark at 6pm.

Events at the Cross begin at 7.15pm with a display of dancing from the Celia Orr School. Around 8pm the equestrian procession sets out for the Cross and, at 8.15pm, Geoff will be installed as the 2010 Lord Cornet.

One innovation this year is the introduction of children's games at the racecourse on Wednesday night at 6.30pm.

For more information on this story, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now, priced just 48p.