Sweets in Selkirk: Flodden, 1513, and the Man Who Rode Home

Selkirk was raised to a Royal Burgh in 1113, but the town's defining story comes four centuries later, from a battlefield in Northumberland.

Flodden, 1513

In 1513, around 80 men from Selkirk marched south to fight for King James IV at the Battle of Flodden, one of the heaviest defeats in Scottish military history. By tradition, only one man, a weaver named Fletcher, made it back, reportedly staggering into the marketplace to cast down a captured English flag before collapsing.

A tradition that still runs every year

That story is commemorated every year at the Selkirk Common Riding, one of the largest gatherings of horses and riders in Europe, which closes with the Casting of the Colours in memory of Fletcher's final act.

Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else

Selkirk's history is built on battles and tradition, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of the Scottish Borders and the UK.

25,000+ customers, and counting

We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Selkirk and the rest of the Scottish Borders included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.

Frequently asked questions

Do you deliver sweets to Selkirk?

Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.

What is the story behind Selkirk's Common Riding?

It commemorates Flodden in 1513, when around 80 men rode out and, by tradition, only one, a weaver named Fletcher, returned.

Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Selkirk?

Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Selkirk addresses.

Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.

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