A weird and wonderful annual tradition which sees a local man dressed in foliage to walk through the streets of South Queensferry returned today (August 7).
The ‘Burryman’ is believed to date back to the 16th century. Every August, a local man is covered head-to-toe in thousands of sticky burdock burrs and paraded on a nine-mile walk through the town to bring good luck.
Locals hand him drinks and donations as he makes the more than nine-hour wander around the town, with all the money raised going to charity.
Today marked Andrew Taylor's final year performing as South Queensferry's traditional Burryman, concluding a 14-year tenure in the role, having first been the Burryman in 2012.
His successor, Cameron Forrester, will take over the duties beginning in 2027, having been part of the Burryman team as bell ringer for the past 10 years.
The custom is associated with, but separate from, the town's Ferry Fair, with the opening concert taking place in the town last Saturday, followed by a week of events including the Boundary Race, and the Burryman day today, ahead of the Ferry Fair Day and Parade on Saturday, August 8, culminating with fair’s the grand raffle draw the following day.
The exact meaning of the Burryman tradition is lost, but past theories suggest he acts as a village scapegoat or a charm to ensure good luck and a prosperous fishing or harvest season.
Because the Burryman’s arms and face are stiffly covered in burrs, onlookers and pub stops offer him sips of whisky using a straw.
9. Procession
The Burryman making his way through the streets of South Queensferry for the annual event. | PA Wire Photo: Jane Barlow
10. Donations
More locals place donations on the Burryman in South Queensferry, with all money raised going to local charities. | PA Wire
11. Fun day
The annual ritual is a big part of life in South Queensferry, with hundreds of locals greeting the Burryman as he makes his way through the town. | PA Wire Photo: Jane Barlow
12. Dram O'Clock
The Burryman enjoys yet another dram on his travels around South Queensferry. | PA Wire Photo: Jane Barlow