King Charles Launches Jedburgh Hand Ba' Game Amidst Historic Scottish Borders Visit

King Charles III recently visited the Scottish Borders, engaging with local traditions. A notable moment occurred when His Majesty launched the ancient Jedburgh Hand Ba' game, a customary street ball contest.

The King, present at Jedburgh's Mercat Cross, initiated proceedings by throwing the 'uppies' ball to commence the historic contest. This traditional event sees the town divided into two teams, the 'uppies' and the 'downies', who compete to move a leather ball to their respective goals at opposite ends of Jedburgh.

During the event, King Charles found himself momentarily enveloped in the scrum of players, a testament to the game's fervent and communal nature. Local spectators observed the monarch's unexpected proximity to the rough-and-tumble play, an uncommon occurrence for a royal engagement.

This visit underscores the monarchy's continued engagement with regional customs and traditions across the United Kingdom, particularly those with deep historical roots.