Motion · S5M-17321 · 15 May 2019

Thomas the Rhymer Walking Trail

Lodged by Michelle Ballantyne Standard Motion 18 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament recognises the launch of a walking trail in Earlston that is dedicated to the 13th century laird and poet from the town, Sir Thomas de Ercildoun, who was known as Thomas the Rhymer and was supposedly blessed with the gift of foresight; acknowledges the famous ballad, Thomas the Rhymer, in which the Queen of Elfland, or Faërie Queen, takes Sir Thomas to her home in the Eildon Hills and for him to return to Earlston seven years later garbed in green velvet and lacking the ability to tell a lie; believes that this has inspired many retellings, including a famous poem by Sir Walter Scott, and has had a marked influence on Scottish culture; understands that the trail will take approximately two hours to complete and will lead walkers from Earlston to the Rhymer’s Stone in Melrose, taking in sites associated with Sir Thomas along the way; thanks the Friends of Thomas the Rhymer for their work in promoting this important piece of Eildon's culture, including through the production of guide leaflets for the trail, and wishes them all the best for its launch.

Supporters (18)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.