This song has been recorded various times and it is sung often at Common Ridings and Festivals throughout the borders.
One of the first people I heard singing it was Craig Rodgerson aka “Dodger”. It was special because he was Hawick Cornet, the ultimate accolade in my home town. Dodger tragically passed away, taken far too soon and a recording of him singing it with his son Hector was played at his funeral. A very emotional time.
I realised I’d never properly recorded the song myself, so this is a tribute to Craig.
It will always be “Dodger’s Song” to me.
This is Our Borderland
© Alan G Brydon
V1
Come with me,
Up through the valley and over the hills
And you’ll see,
A world full of wonder that nature fulfilled
Grip my hand, as I welcome you home to our land
Feel the warmth as your heart understands
Chorus
For this is our Borderland
These are the hills we call our own
Here are the hearts that beat as one
Where we are home
Here in our Borderland
V2
Walk with me,
Down by the river and up through the trees
And you’ll be,
At one with the wildlife abundant and free
Take your time, as you witness the old and the new
Take a moment to capture the view
V3
Join the crowds,
At our Common Ridings in proud border toons
Sing out loud,
Songs of the borderland long handed doon
Raise a cheer, as the standard is lifted up high
And the riders come galloping by
Where we are home
In oor bonnie Borderland