Socks-away for 500-year-old race

By Hayley Rothwell
BBC News

Sir Simon Macdonald Lockhart presenting the Red Hose in 1919

It began as a quest to find the fastest runner in the village, who could spread news of an imminent invasion - it is now a race to win a pair of red socks.

The 500th Carnwath Red Hose Race will take place on 22 June with runners from across South Lanarkshire able to compete for the first time.

About 150 people are expected to take part in what is one of the world's oldest running contests.

The three-mile race was introduced in 1508 by James IV for military reasons.

He chartered Carnwath to Lord Somerville on the condition he hold the race and award a pair of red hose as a prize.

A fast runner could bring news of any approaching invasion from the south to Edinburgh, and the red hose would be the insignia by which he would be recognised.

The tradition continues and while the legal obligation to hold the race remains, it is the pleasure of taking part that is driving this year's organisers.

Royal approval

Michelle Irving, a sales manager who moved to the village from France two years ago, said she got involved as a means to learn more about Carnwath.

She said: "My neighbour and I made a New Year's resolution to get more involved in the local community. We went along to the Gala committee and we thought we'd get involved with the Red Hose Race.

"The problem is it's always just been Carnwath and the surrounding parishes that could take part, but this year it is going to be for everyone in South Lanarkshire.

"We're hoping to get 150 runners at least."

The Laird of Carnwath, Angus Lockhart, would have to obtain permission from the Crown to cancel the race.

This can only be granted in the case of a national emergency, such as war or foot and mouth disease - as was the case in 2001.

The quest to find the fastest runner in the village is not the only contest to be staged in Carnwath this year.

The organisers of the race are also hoping to find the best knitter, who will have the important task of knitting the red socks which will be presented to the winner.