Born in the War Memorial Hospital, Callum has lived in Peebles all his life, attending Halyrude Primary School then Kingsland before moving up to Peebles High. After finishing school, Callum went on to complete his time as an apprentice butcher. He is now one of the fifth generation of butchers in the family.

Callum's wife Rachael is a nurse and they have two daughters; Amy and Kate.  Amy has recently graduated from University and works in PR in Glasgow and Kate is studying food and cunsumer science in Dundee.

As a youngster, Callum was a member of the Boys' Brigade and has fond memories of summer camps and adventures.  It is these childhood memories that may have led to his love of the outdoors.

While his school friends, Norman Hopkirk and Alan Thompson joined Peebles Pipe Band, Callum has to admit he joined the town's Silver Band, playing the cornet and like many adults, now wishes he could still play a musical instrument!

Throughout the years, Callum has been involved in some form or another in the Beltane Festiva.  This has included being a mouse in primary one, helping out at the Beltane Shed, carrying out the role of Halbadier at the Mercat Cross and even Riding the Marches on many an occasion.  He now enjoys participating in the fancy dress parade on the Friday night with Julie Hopkirk.

Callum's interests include walking and golf and he is currently secretary of the Lothian Meat Trade Golf Club and a member of the Gutterbluid Society.  Expanding on Callum's love of the outdoors, he likes nothing better than touring and camping on the west coast of Scotland.  However, working in the family shop and and attempting to keep his garden neat and tidy means that he does not get away as frequently as he would like.

Callum is accompanied today by his wife Rachael and family. He is looking forward to carrying out his duties as Chieftain of Peebles Highland Games