This year’s Hunter and Lass festivities face cancellation following limited interest from the public.

Despite having a population of around 17,000, the organisers behind Penicuik’s well established May time festival are struggling to find two people to take on the roll of Hunter and lass this year.

In an urgent statement issued Thursday, the Chairman, Derek Wilson, called on the people of Penicuik to step up and nominate either themselves or someone they know to lead this year’s rideout. He said that there had been a “lack of candidates” put forward for positions since the nomination process opened late last year.

Continuing, Mr Wilson aimed to dispel any concerns would-be nominees could have, including whether they had to have previous experience horse riding (no) or whether it could be quite costly to fulfil the role throughout the year. The Hunter and Lass organising committee urges anyone with questions to get in touch.

Should the festivities go ahead, this would be the eightieth year of the week long celebrations which culminate in a Rideout and parade, usually seen by the majority of the community. This year’s festival will run from Saturday 21 to Saturday 28 May with the parade on the final Saturday. Penicuik on Parade expressed their concerns over the future of Hunter and Lass on Facebook saying “We need you guys to lead our Parade!”.

Penicuik on Parade has also faced a lack of interest in recent years, however a new committee has been established to make sure the event can go ahead.

If you’re interested in being this year’s Hunter or Lass, or if you know someone who may be, get in touch with the organisation by emailing Penicuikhunterandlass@hotmail.com.