16/07/2026
A true Gentleman and Ambassador to our Town who embodied everything Kelso Civic Week represents.
You will be truly missed John.
Our thoughts our with Sandra, Steven, (Kelso Laddie 1988) Sharon and all Johns Family and many friends
🔵⚪️💙
Kelso Laddies Association SCIO - A Tribute
to John Dickson (1946–2026)
The Kelso Laddies Association mourns the passing of our dear friend and Life Member, John Dickson, whose dedication, loyalty and friendship have left an enduring legacy that will never be forgotten.
For almost forty years, Johnny served with distinction on the Committee of the Kelso Laddies
Association, giving his time, knowledge and unwavering commitment to the Civic Week he
loved. During those years, he undertook a number of convenor roles, including the Fancy Dress Parade, Equestrian Events and Family Day, always approaching every task with enthusiasm, attention to detail and a determination to make each event a success.
For many years, Johnny was our Souvenir Brochure Convenor, a role in which he took enormous pride. Every edition was carefully assembled, ensuring there was something of interest for everyone, with fresh articles and features each year. Central to the brochure was Johnny’s remarkable photographic archive, built over many years as the Association’s
Official Photographer. His collection of images from Civic Weeks past and present has become an invaluable record of our history, preserving countless memories for future generations.
John’s support for Kelso Civic Week extended far beyond his committee work. Through his
business, John Butler (Roofing), he sponsored Civic Week for decades, demonstrating his
unwavering commitment to the traditions and community he loved.
John was honoured to serve as Chairman of the Kelso Laddies Association in 1997 and 1998,
leading with dedication, integrity and a genuine passion for the Association and its members.
His contribution, however, reached well beyond Kelso.
Over many years, Johnny made friends throughout the Common Riding and Festival circuit, supporting not only Kelso but the celebrations of many Border towns. Whether travelling by minibus with old friends or new, his generosity and hospitality became legendary. There was always a warm welcome, plenty of laughter and good company. Among the many highlights he looked forward to each year were a day on The Moor at Hawick and Flodden Field at Coldstream, occasions he
thoroughly enjoyed and cherished.
As our Official Photographer, John captured countless moments of pride, celebration and
tradition. Many of the memories we treasure today exist because Johnny was there with his
camera, preserving the spirit of Kelso Civic Week for generations to come. It was while carrying out this duty that sadly he became suddenly unwell.
Alongside John stood his devoted wife, Sandra, herself a Life Member, whose decades of
steadfast support and commitment to the Association made them one of its most respected
couples. Together, they embodied the spirit of service, friendship and community that defines
the Kelso Laddies Association.
Above all, John was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Sandra, a proud Dad
to Sharon and her husband Colin, and to Steven, Kelso Laddie 1988, and his wife Victoria.
He was an adoring Papa to Rachel, Ruby and Jake, each of whom brought him immense pride
and joy.
Johnny was a devoted friend to many. His kindness, generosity, good humour and unwavering loyalty enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His friendship crossed towns and generations, and wherever the Border festivals gathered, Johnny was a familiar and much-loved face.
On behalf of all past and present members of the Kelso Laddies Association, and the Ex-
Kelso Laddies we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Sandra and the entire Dickson family. We
thank them for sharing Johnny with us for so many years.
His service, his friendship, his photographs and his love for Kelso Civic Week have left an indelible mark on our Association. His legacy will live on in the traditions he helped uphold and the new ones he created.
Rest in peace, John. Your contribution to the Kelso Laddies Association and to the wider Common Riding family will never be forgotten and your legacy will live on through Civic Week
