The editor of a weekly newspaper has resigned after a picture caption was published which ridiculed locals taking part in a traditional event.

The Southern Reporter, based in Selkirk, horrified readers with the captions that accompanied reports in last week’s edition.

Editor of three years Willie Mack took responsibility for the error and resigned.

People taking part in festivities surrounding St Ronan’s Games Week and Cleikum Ceremonies were described as “pious little bleeders” in print.

The caption continued: “What on earth is going on in this picture – these people have got to get out more often for their peace of mind and sanity.”

Before he left he got in touch with games officials and apologised for what happened on behalf of himself, the newspaper and Tweeddale Press, which is in turn owned by Johnston Press.

A statement from Johnston Press said: “The company can confirm that the editor, Willie Mack, has resigned his position.”

The Southern Reporter, which has a circulation of around 18,500, was named best weekly newspaper in Scotland in 2002 and 2003.

The ceremonial events, at Innerleithen, near Peebles, are a highlight of the town’s calendar and an important aspect of life in the Borders.

St Ronan’s Games and Cleikum Ceremonies is an annual festival instituted 175 years ago.

Originally comprising two days of competitive sport and evening entertainment, Games Week now spreads over eight days.

The Cleikum Ceremonies invest the Dux Boy with the symbol of his office, the Cleikum Crozier. He then hands out “staves” to his ten followers – the monks.

Another part of the ceremony is to burn an effigy of the Devil on nearby Caerlee Hill.

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