Simpsons Malt supports historic pageantry event

Independent grain merchant and maltster Simpsons Malt is to sponsor a local riding association in advance of the historic Riding of the Bounds event in Berwick-on-Tweed, Scotland.

Sashing ceremony for Riding of the Bounds’  2016 Chief Marshal (L-R) Principal’s Right-hand man Beth Innes, 2016 Chief Marshal Rachel Martin, 2015 Chief Marshal moving to left-hand man Lorraine Fiddes, and Flora Simpson from Simpsons Malt. Image: Kimberley Powell, Johnston Press

Riding of the Bounds dates back to the 16^th century and is a celebration of the traditional 15-mile ride to check the security of the boundaries of the town.

The 407^th edition will take place on 1 May, when a cavalcade of horse riders will once again take circle Berwick in a form of “modern pageantry”.

Locally-based Simpsons Malt will sponsor the Berwick Riders Association, with funds going towards riding lessons and horse hire for the three Berwick riders.

It is hoped that more people, including those who currently do not ride or own a horse, will come forward in subsequent years to take part in the event.

“We at Simpsons Malt are always keen to get involved in local initiatives especially when they are integral to the history of the area,” said Richard Simpson, Simpsons Malt vice president.

“The riding of the bounds is a traditional event dating back to 1550 and we know our support of the event will help to keep it alive for generations to come.”

Shaun Eltringham, from the Berwick Riders Association, added: “The historical ride around the ancient boundaries of the town is a fantastic draw for locals and tourists alike and we rely on sponsors, Friends of the Bounds and supporters to ensure this traditional event can continue to take place. We are ever grateful to Simpsons Malt for their generous donation.”

Riding of the Bounds is free to attend and starts at 9am on 1 May.

Simpsons Malt is the owner of grain merchant McCreath, Simpson & Prentice, which purchases more than 300,000 tonnes of malting barley from more than 2,000 farmers in the North of England, the Borders, Fife, Perthshire, Angus, the Lothians, and Aberdeenshire each year.