Hawick Common Riding faces sexism and intimidation claims

A historic riding festival could lose thousands of pounds of public funding following claims of sexism and intimidation against women, according to reports.

By Alison Campsie

Published 9th Nov 2019, 20:42 BST

Hawick Common Riding celebrates the history of the Borders town (pictured) but the historic festival is now at the centre of sexism claims following complaints from some women. There is no suggestion that anyone pictured is linked to any allegation.

Hawick Common Riding has had £9,300 withheld following the accusations with discussions ongoing with Scottish Borders Council over the situation

Allegations have been made that some female participants faced discrimination, derision and hostility at the event, according to a report on BBC Scotland.

Bid to redress gender balance of Hawick Common Riding Committee comes up Short

The first women joined Hawick Common Riding, which in part celebrates the capture of an English Flag in 1514 by the youth of Hawick, 20 years ago.

A video posted online appears to show official Gillian Morgan booed and pelted with paper when she left a Hawick Common Riding ceremony earlier this year.