Thousands of people lined the streets of St Andrews to watch the historic Kate Kennedy Parade on Saturday.
This year’s event was the first to be organised by both men and women, following the lifting of a controversial ban last year.
Two female students recently joined the ranks of the Kate Kennedy Club, founded in 1926 but with its roots in the 15th century.
Although the ban was lifted ahead of last year’s parade, it was too late for women to become involved in organising it.
The procession is seen as one of the highlights of the town-and-gown calendar and always attracts a large crowd.
The event sees St Andrews University’s 600-year history brought to life as students in costume portray notable characters from across the centuries. It purports to herald the start of spring and is billed as an everlasting symbol of youth and hope.
Niece of the founder of St Salvator’s College, Lady Katherine Kennedy is the central figure in the procession and ‘appeared’ in an open, horse-drawn 18th century carriage decorated with hundreds of daffodils.Click here for a full photo gallery by The Courier’s Kim CessfordLady Kate is traditionally portrayed by a first-year club member, whose identity is kept secret until he emerges from the gates of St Salvator’s Chapel.
This year, Kate was played by Edward Fry and was accompanied by James Smith as Bishop Kennedy, the founder of St Salvator’s College.
Other colourfully-draped characters from the history of St Andrews were also portrayed, including Robert the Bruce, Mary, Queen of Scots, Rudyard Kipling and John Cleese.
The procession always raises thousands of pounds for local charities.
The marshall of the procession, Edmund Haxby, said a huge amount of work had gone into organising the event. He said: “This year’s procession marks its 87th anniversary and it involves contributions from all parts of the town and the university but, above all, it is an event for the town and its surroundings to enjoy.”