Charles, the King, experienced more than expected when he initiated a centuries-old traditional ball game that involved men wrestling on the streets. His visit to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders was part of Royal Week in Scotland, featuring the annual hand ba’ game established in 1704.
The King, attired in a sophisticated grey suit, commenced the game by tossing a leather ball into a group of local men in the town square. As the competitors wrestled for the ball in front of him, Charles stepped back, observing the scene with amusement.
The game, which divides men and boys into two teams known as the Uppies and the Doonies based on their place of residence in the town, is a full-contact sport. Charles’s visit coincided with the town’s Jethart Callant festival, a component of the traditional “common ridings” celebrated yearly in the Borders region.
During the festivities, Charles witnessed a pipe band procession followed by a display of horses and the Callant leading the festival. The Callant and his group performed a traditional reel for the King, accompanied by an accordion’s music, while spectators clapped along.
Additionally, Charles toured local businesses and a market near the town’s bandstand. Stallholders presented him with gifts such as local honey and a handmade shepherd’s crook topped with a goat horn.
At the Jed Shed, a space for carpentry and crafts, Charles engaged with members, discussing carpentry, assisting with a bird house, and conversing about the facility’s role in supporting physical and mental well-being.
The warm sunshine drew crowds to witness the event, marking the town’s first royal visit since 2006. Charles received a warm welcome from locals, including schoolchildren waving flags, and well-wishers lining his route.
Shaun Carroll, chairman of the Jedburgh Royal British Legion, expressed delight at the King’s interaction, while other residents like Julie Gallagher and Emma Tennant praised Charles for his interest in local initiatives and bee population support efforts.
The royal visit was part of Royal Week in Scotland, which commenced with ceremonial events in Edinburgh. Charles and Camilla’s previous visit to the Scottish Borders was in 2023.