In 2006, the Guid Nychburris Parade was given a new title, `The Big Parade` and that`s what it was!. The stunning increase in the length and quality of the parade surprised everyone, including the organisers, as hundreds of Doonhamers, local hauliers and visitors put in a magnificent effort, in response to appeals to return the parade to its former glory.

Since then, the organising team has not rested on its laurels despite the instant success of the new formula. It was immediately apparent that the number of marching bands taking part in 2006 was disproportionate to the size of the parade and so, much of the preparatory work since then has gone into booking more bands. For 2008, the team aims to have up to eight really excellent pipe bands taking part, plus of course Dumfries Town Band, who always have a large part to play in the proceedings.

The parade organising committee, formed in 2006 makes every effort to encourage all parts of the community to participate, and to invite all previous participants to return. The parade is and always has been for everyone to enjoy and its a chance for the more imaginative, extrovert, or both, to put their ideas and talents on show.

The organisers would especially like to thank Gates Power Transmission and Stagecoach for their generous sponsorship of Rosettes for the participants and `Rally Plates` for the lorries in this years` parade.

Entry forms can be conveniently collected and once completed, returned to the Municipal Chambers in Buccleuch Street, Dumfries. For even more convenience, you can download a form from this page, in either `Word` or `PDF` format. Just scroll down and click on your preference.

2008 is the third year that the parade will have returned to its traditional start time of 6.15 pm. Because of the increased number of entrants, they now congregate in both Huntingdon Road and St Marys Industrial Estate. So, please take note that the actual start point of the parade is at the junction of Lockerbie Road and St Marys Industral Estate, roughly parallel with the Birkhill Hotel and that this is also where the bands will join the procession.

On leaving the start point, the parade will wind its way round the familiar route, which the organisers hope will be lined with thousands of cheering, clapping, onlookers. For those unfamiliar with the route, the procession travels along St. Mary`s Street, English Street, Shakespeare Street, Nith Place, the Whitesands, Buccleuch Street, Academy Street and finally Lovers Walk.

As is tradition, the Cornet, his Lass, the Lynors and the Pursuivant will lead the parade on horseback, followed by a float carrying the Queen Of The South and her Attendants. What follows, will be a broad mix of music, colour, fun and impressive displays. Whether on foot, horseback, on bikes, in cars or on lorries, there will be something for everyone who has a special place in their heart for this great summer`s evening tradition. Don't miss your Guid Nychburris `Big Parade` on June 21st. Better still, take part, its great fun !

Roland Proudlock. Parade Convenor.

Please be patient, as either version of the entry form may be quite slow to download.

Entries Close on Friday June 13th 2008 at 5.00pm.