New Scottish Borders Festival Celebrates Walter Scott's 250th Anniversary

Walter Scott (15 August 1771 – 21 September 1832), was a Scottish historical novelist, poet, playwright. Many historians consider him to be the inventor of historical fiction. His works include the novels Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, Waverley, Old Mortality, The Heart of Mid-Lothian and The Bride of Lammermoor. Born in Edinburgh (Scottish Gaelic: Dùn Èideann). He was one of nine children, six of which did not survive. A childhood bout of polio in 1773 that left him lame, the results of which are said to have has a significant impact on his on his life and writing. As a result of his illness he was sent in 1773 to live in the rural Scottish Borders. This was the home of his paternal grandparents at Sandyknowe farm, adjacent to the ruin of Smailholm Tower, the earlier family home.

Walter Scott was to have a long association with the Scottish Borders and lived for many years at Abbotsford House near Melrose (Scottish Gaelic: Maolros). Now a new festival is to be held to mark the 250th anniversary of his birth of Sir Walter Scott at Abbotsford House on 14th and 15th August. The aim is to hold the event annually in order to celebrate his achievements and influence on Scottish life. The first festival will have the theme of Ivanhoe, one of his best-known novels. ScottFest will also include a jousting tournament, stunt riding and the performance of 15th and 16th Century music using traditional instruments.

Image: Sir Walter Scott, novelist and poet – painted by Sir William Allan (1782 - 1850).