King Charles visited the Scottish Borders town of Jedburgh today, where he launched a traditional street game with roots stretching back more than three centuries.
The monarch was invited to start the hand ba’ match, a historic sporting contest that has taken place annually since 1704.
His appearance in the market town coincided with the Jethart Callant Festival, a local celebration running from June 20 to July 12.
The engagement formed part of Royal Week in Scotland, during which members of the Royal Family carry out various official duties north of the border.
King Charles has launched a traditional street game in Scotland
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GETTY
The hand ba’ is a full-contact affair in which participants are divided into two sides known as the Uppies and the Doonies, determined by their place of residence within Jedburgh.
Competitors attempt to manoeuvre the ball towards designated goals, with the physical contest often involving considerable scrummaging.
Matches can extend over several hours before a winner emerges.
The Jethart Callant Festival, during which the King’s visit takes place, celebrates local heritage and traditions.
Competitors attempt to manoeuvre the ball towards designated goals, with the physical contest often involving considerable scrummaging
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GETTY
Each year, a young man is selected as the Jedburgh Callant to lead the festivities and serve as the town’s representative throughout the celebration period.
During his visit, the King observed a horse procession passing through the town square, a tradition forming part of the common ridings held throughout the Borders region.
The procession was headed by the Jedburgh Callant, whose accompanying riders dismounted to perform a traditional reel.
During his visit, the King observed a horse procession passing through the town square
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GETTY
King Charles III meeting children during visit to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders
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REUTERS
Charles also had the opportunity to meet local residents during his time in the town.
Royal Week commenced on Tuesday when the King arrived at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh for the Ceremony of the Keys, followed by an investiture.
The monarch and Queen Camilla previously toured the Scottish Borders in 2023, visiting Galashiels and Selkirk.