There have been some famous visitors and infamous events in the parish church over the years. In 1610 the Homes of Wedderburn burst into the morning service to confront the Cockburns of Langton: a swordfight ensued leaving various men wounded and 3 ringleaders were sentenced to a month in Edinburgh Castle. In 1739 the selection of Rev Roger Moodie as the new minister was so unpopular that his ordination had to be protected by a company of dragoons. Robert Burns came to Duns in 1787 and is said to have had the inspiration for “To a Louse” during the Sunday service. In 1970 the church hosted an episode of well-known BBC television programme ‘Songs of Praise’ which was broadcast on 27th September of that year.