You Can Cook, working in partnership with Eildon Housing Association, has developed a project, “Cook, Eat and Blether”, which will be delivered as a pilot at two care homes – in Galashiels and Melrose.

You Can Cook has been working for the last few years with Eildon on various projects, from working with migrants and locals in a food-based integration project to supporting staff on eating energised lunches at work. Residents’ views were also taken on board.

“Cook, Eat and Blether” deals with isolation issues, health and nutrition, local and seasonal foods, healthy recipes and provides a platform for residents, visitors and staff to socialise together around food. Residents are encouraged to join in the cooking.

One of the main aims is to rekindle residents’ childhood memories of favourite recipes and dishes.

It is also planned to collate recipes in a leaflet, helping to expand these activities to other sheltered developments and surrounding communities.

z The photograph shows a cookery demonstration at Eildon’s Oakwood Park development in Galashiels.

Back in the 1960s, Loudon Temple was the charismatic vocalist with various beat groups on the flourishing 
Borders dance hall circuit.

Half a century on, Selkirk-born Loudon’s love of music – and his desire to share that passion with others – remains undiminished.

The former Hawick News journalist has just completed the painstaking task of selecting and uploading no fewer than 6,600 of his favourite tracks to go online with his own non-stop internet radio operation – The Listening Station.

“It’s a bit like a 24-hour Desert Island Discs – but without any chat and no distracting adverts,” said the 66-year-old self-confessed “obsessive” record collector.

For the past decade, he has run one of the UK’s most successful roots music agencies – Brookfield-Knights – seeking out and importing performers from the USA and Canada.

From his base in Renfrewshire, he now represents around 40 transatlantic acts, many of whom are well known to local audiences through appearances at the Eastgate Theatre in Peebles and the Heart of Hawick.

Tracks from the Brookfield-Knights stable are, not surprisingly, included in the playlist of The Listening Station, which launched last month, along with a host of other favourites from the Temple collection, including JJ Cale, Jackson Browne, Big Bill Broonzy, Sharon Shannon, Dan Hicks and Galashiels indie legends Dawn of the Replicants.

“The idea came after an exasperating long drive from London to Glasgow in which hours were spent searching in vain for music on the radio which was fresh and attention-grabbing,” explained Loudon.

“It was my wife Brenda [née Smith from Newcastleton] who encouraged me to stop moaning and do something about it: to think about the fact technology is coming which will allow us to have in-car access to the internet while travelling.

“It’s a potentially huge market to add to the many other online platforms.

“I’ve gone for tracks which have provided goose-pimple experiences for me during a lifetime of record collecting and band watching, along with hundreds of exciting new discoveries from lesser-known acts which deserve more widespread exposure.

“We shuffle rotations each week to ensure no-one tuning in at the same time on the same day the following week will hear the same material.”

To tune in – and to find out how to submit tracks for consideration on the playlist – go to http://www.thelisteningstation.co.uk/index.php/about-us

St Abbs lifeboat volunteers have sworn to oppose the closure of their station with the support of the community.

That statement of intent was made at a community gathering after station master Alistair Crowe was called to an emergency meeting to discuss the RNLI’s decision.

But the RNLI has again declined to rethink, citing concerns over staffing levels and development costs.

RNLI chairman Charles Hunter-Pease addressed some concerns in a letter to local MSP Paul Wheelhouse and new MP Calum Kerr.

Mr Hunter-Pease wrote: “The unanimous decision by the charity’s trustees to close the lifeboat station was a difficult one and not taken lightly.”

The letter went on to acknowledge for the first time in correspondence that the cost to the RNLI of maintaining a station was a “consideration”. It was also revealed that the charity had concerns over crew levels in the future.

Meanwhile, a diver who saw their friend brought back to life by the St Abbs crew in a dramatic rescue has thanked the volunteers.

The crew raced to rescue the injured diver from rocks at St Abbs Head. It took them just five minutes to launch their boat and reach the woman, who they pulled, unconscious, from the water.

The injured diver’s companion said: “The quick response ... in my opinion, saved her life.”

Inspectors have awarded Wheatlands Children and Young People’s Unit in Galashiels the highest possible gradings for the residential care they provide in the Scottish Borders to young people aged 12-18.

The home was also named residential team of the year by the Scottish Institute of Residential Child Care at an award ceremony in Glasgow.

Inspectors visited the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) run home in Galashiels on April 23. The unannounced inspection took into account the views of young people living at Wheatlands and staff members as well as evidence from documents such as care plans, meeting minutes and incident records. Wheatlands was awarded the maximum grading of 6, or excellent, for all aspects of the service. This includes quality of care and support, environment, staffing and management and leadership.

The inspectors found the staff team to be highly motivated and committed to the young people in their care, with high expectations and doing their best to help them achieve their potential.

Councillor Frances Renton, SBC’s executive member for social work and housing, said: “This is an outstanding report which clearly recognises the excellent work carried out by the team at Wheatlands. The staff who place and support the young people and the young people themselves should be extremely proud of this achievement.”

Wheatlands provides accommodation for up to five young people assessed as requiring medium to long-term residential care for a variety of reasons.

It is the Council’s only residential care home for young people.

An inspectors’ report on Denholm Primary School, released today, has stated that the children are happy in school, and proud of their school and the community.

The HM Inspectorate of Education’s (HMIe) report on Denholm Primary School released today acknowledges the wealth of experience afforded to pupils through class and partnership working.

The inspectors identified several important strengths of the school, including:

► Children are polite, well behaved and very respectful of staff, their school and the community.

► A high-quality learning environment is provided both indoors and outdoors.

► Effective work with partners provides children with very good sporting and cultural experiences.

► Teamwork across the school and the learning community.

Head teacher, Mrs Morag McCreadie said: “I am delighted that the inspectors have recognised our polite and respectful children, who are enthusiastic, diligent learners. Our children shared with them their enjoyment of school and learning, and highlighted many aspects including the Forest Schools work and various sporting successes.

“Inspectors recognised the work we have undertaken in developing aspects of our curriculum and we will now continue that further. They also highlighted the strong ethos of team work throughout the school and the wider community. We are looking forward to working with our children, their families and our other partners to further improve that learning experience for our young people.”

Scottish Borders Council and the school have agreed with the inspectors to continue to make improvements in the following areas:

► Continue to develop the curriculum so that learning is deep, relevant and challenging and is of a consistently high quality through the school.

► Ensure that approaches to self-evaluation result in improvements for children at all stages.

Scottish Borders Council (SBC) is flying the flag for Armed Forces Day this week.

Armed Forces Day takes place this year on Saturday, June 27 and councils across the country are raising the flag in recognition of the role played by servicemen and women past and present. SBC has arranged for the flag to fly at council buildings across the region.

Convener, Councillor Graham Garvie said: “We are thankful for everything that our brave servicemen and women have done and continue to do to keep us all safe. The Scottish Borders has a long and proud connection with our armed forces and the raising of the flag is an important token of our appreciation.”

SBC has also launched its updated Veterans Handbook, a guide for service veterans coming to settle in the area.

Councillor John Greenwell, SBC’s champion for armed forces and veterans said: “in my role I work very closely with Veterans Scotland to ensure that any veteran in the Borders in need of help receives it quickly and efficiently. That is why we are launching our updated Veterans Handbook.”

Meanwhile, organisations from across the Borders have reaffirmed their commitment to the Armed Forces Community Covenant. First signed in 2012 the council along with representatives from the armed forces, NHS Borders, registered social landlords and the charitable and voluntary sector, signed an updated version on Monday.

The aim of the Community Covenant is to encourage organisations across the region to support those retiring from the armed forces and ensure they can access the assistance they might need.

As part of the covenant members of the armed forces will be encouraged to do as much as they can to support the communities they live in.

Businesses are being encouraged to apply early for the Scottish Borders Business Fund following the success of the grant scheme last year, which was fully committed well before the end of the financial year.

The Scottish Borders Business Fund offers the chance to apply for a discretionary grant towards projects designed to boost sales and increase profit. Up to 50 per cent of a project’s eligible costs can be applied for, up to a maximum of £4,000.

Councillor Stuart Bell, SBC’s executive member for economic development, said: “This scheme is one of several the council run which support local businesses, but it proved hugely popular in the last financial year so it is important that businesses get their applications in early this year.

“The fund can help new or small businesses invest and grow and develop projects which otherwise would not be possible. In addition to any potential financial benefit, all applicants will work with a dedicated business adviser from our Business Gateway service who will provide business development assistance.”

To be eligible for the Scottish Borders Business Fund businesses should be based in the Scottish Borders, should have fewer than 50 employees and be looking to invest and grow their business.

Phil McCreadie, Business Gateway Manager, said: “In addition to the support Business Gateway provides as part of the Scottish Borders Business Fund, we can offer free help and advice to all sizes of businesses in the area, including helping them to access funding at local, national and European levels.”

The Scottish Government has published proposals on a series of ‘radical’ land reforms.

It wants to legislate on a number of measures aimed at achieving ‘a fairer and more equitable distribution of land in Scotland’.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Bill will end business rates exemptions for shooting and deerstalking estates, give communities a right to buy land to further sustainable development, and make information on who owns land and its value more readily available.

Land Reform Minister Aileen McLeod said the Bill is a “significant step forward” in ensuring land is used in the public interest.

But the body which represents landowners has already criticised some of the proposals.

Borders MSP John Lamont MSP said: “People in the Borders want to see a strong rural economy, more local jobs, better broadband and an improvement in local services.

“These proposals won’t deliver any of this. Instead, they represent a huge increase in government interference in land ownership and a £7m tax bill for estates which employ hundreds of people.”

Business rates exemptions for shooting and deerstalking estates were brought in by the Conservatives in 1994.

The money raised from ending the exemptions will be used to help fund community buyouts, with a target of having one million acres of land in community ownership by 2020.

Landowners say the scrapping of the exemptions could threaten the viability of some sporting estates, while the policy does not take into account the current voluntary payments made for river and deer management.

Nicola Sturgeon first announced plans for land reform when she became First Minister last year, promising a “radical programme’’ of reform so that Scotland’s land can be “an asset that benefits the many, not the few”.

Other proposals contained in the Bill include the creation of a Scottish Land Commission, backed by a requirement on the Scottish Government to have a statement on rights and responsibilities over land, and issue guidance to landowners on engaging with communities.

Ms McLeod said: “Through the Land Reform Bill we want to ensure that future generations have access to land required to promote business and economic growth and to provide access to good quality, affordable food, energy and housing.

“The introduction of the Bill is a significant step forward in ensuring our land is used in the public interest and to the benefit of the people of Scotland.”

Scottish Gamekeepers Association chairman Alex Hogg said: “Gamekeepers, stalkers and ghillies are proud people. We have faced huge challenges and have had to adapt to new ways of working; more in the last decade than at any other time in history.

“However, we have done it. We know what we do benefits Scotland’s countryside, its wildlife and communities and we know the integral part we play, in the public interest.

“As we have said all along, The Scottish Gamekeepers Association’s objective is to try to protect, as best as we can, the jobs of rural workers and their families and this remains the goal.”

Stow Sports Week once again attracted a massive entry for its many sporting and Fancy Dress categories.

Results

Football Fives finals – P4 –P7: Lauderdale 2 Hawick 1; secondary boys S1 – S3: Stow 7 Queens Park Raisins 0; adults football: Stow 7 Killochyett 5.

Children’s Superstars

Primary 0-4 girls: 1, Lucy Weir; 2=, Megan Healey-Smith & Ailidh Marr; 3, Anna Murray. Primary 5-7 Girls: 1, Freya Doherty; 2, Kat Conway; 3, Melody McConchie. Secondary girls: 1, Rhiannon Gerrard; 2, Rachel Holloway; 3, Rosa Naylor. Overall girls (Lugate Trophy): 1, Freya Doherty; 2, Lucy Weir; 3, Kat Conway.

Primary 0-4 boys: 1, Tom Firth; 2, Cameron McBeath; 3, Finlay McBeath. Primary 5-7 boys: 1, Callum Clarke; 2, Ben Naylor; 3, Harris Rutherford. Secondary boys : 1, Matthew Comiskey; 2, Innes Campbell & Louis Glennon; 3, Jamie Clarke. Overall boys (Aitchison Cup): 1, Callum Clarke; 2, Ben Naylor; 3, Harris Rutherford.

Tossing the Sheaf: 1, Tom Weir.

Hillheid Race – Primary girls Cockholm Cup: 1, Freya Doherty; 2, Lucy Weir; 3, Thea Naylor. Primary Boys Cockholm Cup: 1, Evan Holloway; 2, Louie McKenzie; 3, Cal Campbell. Secondary girls Killochyet Cup: 1, Beth Logan; 2, Rachel Holloway; 3, Rhiannon Gerrard. Secondary boys Killochyett Cup: 1, James Logan; 2, Corrie Campbell; 3, Euan Clarke. Ladies’ Baker Trophy: 1, Leonie Cairns; 2, Serpil Renton. Men’s Manorhead Rose Bowl: 1, Thomas Otten; 2, Rory Campbell; 3, Andrew Lawrie.

Fancy Dress – Best dressed boy under eight: 1, Transformers (I. Murray); 2, JCB (R. Davidson - Ross); 3, Diver & Nemo (C. Lofthouse). Girl under eight: 1, Flower of Scotland (H. Robertson); 2, S.S Common Riding (E. Mark); 3, Tooth Fairy (A. Marr). Girl 8 - 10: 1, Home Made Fairy Castle (G. Duffie); 2, Cave Woman (N. Yeo); 3, Mermaid (A. Murray). Boy 8-10: 1. Darlek (S. Glennon); 2, Bob Marley (S. Renton); 3, Scalextric (T. French). Girl 11-14: 1, Bookworm (R. Gerrard); 2, Rag Doll (E. Doherty). Boy 11-14: 1, Mine Craft (L. McKenzie & L. Glennan). Couple: 1, Owl and Pussy Cat (C. & N. Newton); 2, MIB (L. & R. Leyland); 3, Dog + Lambie (N. Campbell & N. Galloway). Children’s group: 1, Four Elements (F. Doherty, M. Glennon, T. Naylor & M. McConchie); 2, Adventure Tim (I. Houston, R. Doherty, L. Whitson, L. Runciman, E. Riddell, R. Wemyss & N. Wilson); 3, 3. The Clangers (A. Houston & R. Johnson); Float: 1, 3 Little Pigs (J. Steele, A. Black & A. Johnston); Rider: 1, Warhorse (R. Holloway); 2, Country File (E. & C. Duncan); 3, Pocahontas (L. Rochester). Most humourous: 1, Mr. Men(M. McVie, M. Hendry, M Hendry, J. McVie & L. Wilson). Group (Pate Cup): 1, Four Elements. Overall (Keddie Cup): JCB (R. Davidson-Ross.

Novelty Races

Under 5 years Linked Arms Race

1. Max McVie & Thomas Cufley

2. Crawford McBeath & Archie Brown

3. Laurie McBeath & Joanne McBeath

Under 5 years Egg and Spoon Race

1. Murray Hendry

2. Thomas Cufley

3. Rohan Davidson-Ross

Under 5 years Bean Bag Throwing Race

1. Archie Brown

2. Thomas Cufley

3. Brooklyn Johnson

5 - 6 years Egg and Spoon (Girls)

1. Imogen Whitson

2. Naomi Hunter

. Holly Robertson

5 – 6 Skipping Race (Girls)

1. Daisy Harriet

2. Imogen Whitson

3. Holly Robertson

5-6 Sack Race (Girls)

1. Naomi Hunter

2. Daisy Harriet

3. Lilly McKenzie

5 – 6 Years Egg and Spoon (Boys)

1 Caleb Hibbard

2 Aaron Johnston

3 Alex Healy Smith

5 – 6 Years Sack Race (Boys)

1 Caleb Hibbard

2 Cal Johnson

3 Isaac Murphy

5 – 6 Years Skipping Race (Boys)

1 Aaron Johnston

2 Isaac Murphy

3 Caleb Hibbard

7-8 boys Egg and Spoon

1. Mac Rutherford

2. CJ Winter

3. Finlay McBeath

7-8 boys Skipping Race

1. Mac Rutherford

2. CJ Winter

3. Finlay McBeath

7-8 years girls Egg and Spoon Race

1. Rebecca Leyland

2. Ailidh Marr

3. Gemma Duffie

7 – 8 years girls Skipping Race

1. Aimee Weir

2. Ailidh Marr

3. Lucy Weir

7-8 year girls Sack Race

1. Megan Healey-Smith

2. Isla Duncan

3. Lucy Weir

7-8 year boys Sack Race

1. CJ Winter

2. Mac Rutherford

3. Finlay McBeath

9-12 girls Sack Race

1. Freya Doherty

2. Thea Naylor

3. Molly Glennon

9-12 girls Skipping Race

1. Freya Doherty

2. Thea Naylor

3. Molly Glennon

9-12 girls Egg and Spoon Race

1. Freya Doherty

2. Thea Naylor

3. Melody McConchie

9-12 girls Thread the Needle Race

1. Molly Glennon & Rachel Holloway

2. Thea Naylor & Freya Doherty

3. Melody McConchie & Libby Runciman

9-12 girls Three Legged Race

1. Molly Glennon & Thea Naylor

2. Melody McConchie & Libby Runciman

3. Eilidh Riddell & Layla Whitson

9-12 Boys Sack Race

1. Evan Holloway

2. Matthew Comiskey

3. Callum Clarke

9-12 boys Skipping Race

1. Douglas Weir

2. Matthew Comiskey

3. Kieran Linford

9-12 Boys Egg and Spoon Race

1 Harris Rutherford

2 Ben Naylor

3 Lewis Runciman

9-12 Boys Thread the Needle Race

1 Zack Denholm and Toby Denholm

2 Luke Linford & Louis McKenzie

3 Lewis Runciman & Kieran Linford

9-12 Boys 3 Legged Race

1 Innes Campbell & Matthew Comiskey

2 Zack Denholm and Toby Denholm

3 Lewis Runciman & Harris Rutherford

13-14 Years Boys Sack Race.

1 Euan Clarke

2 Corrie Campbell

3 Max Logan

13 – 14 Years Boys Skipping Race

1 Euan Clarke

2 Max Logan

3 Corrie Campbell

13 – 14 Years Boys Egg and Spoon Race.

1 Max Logan

2 Jamie Clarke

3 Corrie Campbell

13 – 14 Years Boys Three Legged Race.

1 Max Logan & Nicholas Henderson

2 Euan Clarke & Corrie Campbell

3 Aiden Black & Kieran Winter

13 – 14 Years Thread the Needle Race.

1 Max Logan & Nicholas Henderson

2 Aiden Black & Kieran Winter

3 Jamie Clarke & Innes Campbell

13-14 Years Girls Sack Race.

1 Rhiannon Gerrard

2 Anna Houston

3 Erika Doherty

13 – 14 Years Girls Egg and Spoon Race.

1 Rhiannon Gerrard

2 Anna Houston

3 Erika Doherty

13 – 14 Years Girls Three Legged Race.

1 Erika Doherty & Anna Houston

2 Rhiannon Gerrard & Rachel Holloway

13 – 14 Years Girls Thread the Needle

1 Rhiannon Gerrard & Rachel Holloway

2 Erika Doherty & Anna Houston

13 – 14 Years Girls Skipping Race

1 Rhiannon Gerrard

2 Anna Houston

3 Erika Doherty

Adult Sack Race

1 Callum Hunter

2 Frazer Anderson

3 Lyndsey Miller

Adult Skipping Race

1 Fraser Hunter

2 Frazer Anderson

3 Lyndsey Miller

Adult Egg and Spoon Race

1 James Runciman

2 Tina Cunningham

3 Lyndsey Miller

Adult 3 Legged Race

1 Fraser Hunter & Scott Hunter

2 Jack Murray & Kyle Dickson

3 Nick Murray & Callum Hunter

Adult Thread the Needle Race

1 Kristine Chapman & Fraser Hunter

2 Frazer Anderson & Bruce Runciman

3 James Runciman & Graham Speirs

Adult Wheel Barrow Race

1 James Runciman & Graham Speirs

2 Frazer Anderson & Bruce Runciman

3 Jack Murray & Kyle Dickson

Children’s Flat Races.

Under 5 Boys

1. Murray Hendry

2. Thomas Cufley

3. Rohan Ross

Under 5 Girls

1 Abbie Hubbard

2 Holly Weir

3 Daisy McBeath

5 Year Old Boys

1 Kaleb Hibbard

2 Cal Johnstone

3 Alex Healey-Smith

5 Year Old Girls

1 Ziva Birch

2 Lilly McKenzie

3 Holly Robertson

6 Year Old Boys

1 Aaron Johnstone

2 Isaac Murphy

3 Rory Cairns

7 – 8 Year Old Boys

1 Mac Rutherford

2 Ben Hibbard

3 CJ Winter

7 – 8 Year Old Girls

1 Lucy Weir

2 Ailidh Marr

3 Gemma Duffy

9 – 10 Year Old Boys

1 Allan Marr

2 Evan Holloway

3 Kenzie Winter

9 – 10 Year Old Girls

1 Bethany Corcoran

2 Anna Murray

3 Libby Anderson

11 -12 Year Old Boys.

1 Callum Clarke

2 Matthew Comiskey

3 Innes Campbell

11 -12 Year Old Girls.

1 Freya Doherty

2 Thea Naylor

3 Molly Glennon

13 – 14 Year Old Boys. (Malcolm Cup)

1 Euan Clarke 12.23s

2 Kenny Lyon 13.41s

3 Aiden Black

13 – 14 Year Old Girls (Malcolm Cup)

1 Rhiannon Gerrard 10.46s

2 Erika Doherty

3 Anna Houston

13 -14 Year Old Boys 300m

1 Euan Clarke

2 Max Logan

3 Corrie Campbell

13 -14 Year Old Girls 300m

1 Rhiannon Gerrard

2 Erika Doherty

9-12 Boys Long Jump

1. Harris Rutherford 3.47m

2. Toby Denholm 3.34m

3 Matthew Comiskey 3.17m

9-12 Girls Long Jump

1 Freya Doherty 3.68m NR

2 Rachel Holloway 3.64m

3 Thea Naylor 3.43m

9-12 Boys High Jump

1 Allan Marr & Callum Clarke 1.14m

2 Toby Denholm & Douglas Weir 1.10m

3 Harris Rutherford & James Corcoran 1.02m 


9-12 Girls High Jump

1 Freya Doherty 1.18m NR

2 Rachel Holloway 1.17m

3 Thea Naylor 1.13m

13 – 14 Year Old Boys Long Jump

1 Euan Clarke 4.92m Equal

2 Max Logan 3.94m

3 Corrie Campbell 3.27m

13 – 14 Year Old Girls Long Jump

1 Rhiannon Gerrard 3.65m NR

2 Anna Houston 3.30m

3 Erika Doherty 3.21m

13 – 14 Year Old Boys High Jump

1 Euan Clarke 1.44m NR

2 Aiden Black 1.35m

3 Kenny Lyons 1.35m

13 – 14 Year Old Girls High Jump

1 Anna Houston 1.12m

2 Rhiannon Gerrard 1.05m

3 Erika Doherty

Adult Races.

Mothers Race

1. Leonie Cairns

2. Wendy Ross

3. Lisa Young

Fathers Race

1 Tony Hibbard

2 Peter Cairns

3 Ross Murphy

Adult Races (Handicapped)

Men’s 120m Edinburgh Cup

1. Bruce Runciman 12.98s

2. Rob Denholm 13.24s

3. Ben Murray 13.71s

Ladies 70m Watson Cup

1 Lyndsey Miller 9.84s

2 Annie Weir 10.11s

3 Leonie Cairns

Men’s 200m Ridley Cup

1 Fraser Hunter

2 Ben Murray

3 Frazer Anderson

Ladies 200m

1 Lyndsey Miller

800m Miller Cup.

1 Ben Murray 2m07

2 James Runciman

3 Frazer Anderson

1500m Cochrane Cup

1 Frazer Anderson

2 Andrew Lawrie

3 Callum Hunter

Men’s Long Jump

1. Fraser Hunter 5m72 NR

2. Frazer Anderson 5m

3. James Runciman 4.46m

Men’s Triple Jump

1 Fraser Hunter 11m 38

2 Frazer Anderson 10m71

3 James Runciman 9m82

Men’s High Jump

1 Bruce Runciman 1.55m NR

2 Fraser Hunter 1.51m

3 Frazer Anderson 1.47m

Men’s Shot Putt

1 Tom Weir 10.30m

2 Gregor Hunter 9.53m

3 Ben Murray 9.22m

Ladies Long Jump

1 Lyndsey Miller 3.29m

2 Annie Weir 3.05m

3 Leonie Cairns 2.88m

Ladies Triple Jump

1 Lyndsey Miller 8.35m NR

2 Annie Weir 7.30m

3 Leonie Cairns 6.30m

Ladies High Jump.

1 Lyndsey Miller 1.39m NR

Ladies Shot Putt

1 Lyndsey Miller 7.59m

2 Tracey Easson 7.05m

3 Rhiannon Gerrard 6.96m

It has been a big week for the Coldstream Guards as their decisive role in the Battle of Waterloo 200 years ago has been remembered.

The Coldstream Guards were involved in defending the allied troops’ position at Hougoumont Farm at Waterloo, Belgium, on June 18, 1815, and were credited with closing the gates to the farm and keeping Napoleon’s troops out. Wellington described Guardsman Corporal James Graham as the “bravest” man in the army and said the outcome of Waterloo “turned on the closing of the gates at Hougoumont”.

At a commemoration service last week, attended by the Prince of Wales, 10 Guardsmen from No 7 Company Coldstream Guards, dressed in 1815 period costume, and carried out the official opening of the gates at the farm – symbolising the friendship and peace all sides now enjoy today, and the official opening of the monument to visitors of the future.

After considerable effort and investment the previously derelict farm has been restored and the anniversary service also marked its official opening to the public as an exhibition area, education centre, memorial, and landmark residence.

During the ceremony, the Band of the Coldstream Guards played a new piece of music composed for the occasion ‘Hougoumont Farm’.

Corporal Oliver Morton of Number 7 Company Scots Guards was among those in period costume who opened the gates, and he said: “It was a real privilege and an inspiration to be part of such an important historical occasion.

“It’s been fascinating learning about how soldiers of the time lived and worked – SA80 rifles are a whole lot easier to handle than a musket and this uniform is really restricitive –there’s almost no movement, not like my modern operational kit.

“But it’s such an honour to be here on the ground where my forebears in the Coldstream Guards, the Scots Guards and the Grenadiers fought so proudly.

“When we came down here to the farm it was so quiet and beautiful. Trying to imagine the scene 200 years ago – wow, it must have been carnage and chaos.

“I’d rather stick with my tunic and bearskin on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace anyday!”

Prince Charles unveiled a statue depicting two life-size soldiers struggling to close the gate at the farm and save it from being over-run by the French at the same ceremony.”

“Every guardsman from day one in training is told about Waterloo and Hougoumont and what that means to be a Coldstream Guard,” said former Coldstream Guardsman Mark Evans, who has been taking part in an archaeological dig of the battlefield which aims to increase understanding of what happened at Waterloo.

A pair of stirrups used by the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo will be worn for the first time in almost two centuries at a battle re-enactment in the Borders at the weekend.

Scottish Olympic equestrian hero, Ian Stark, will play the part of the Duke of Wellington in the re-enactment, which takes place at the Waterloo Monument at Penielheugh near Jedburgh, erected by the 6th Marquis of Lothian to celebrate Wellington’s victory, on Sunday, June 28.

Broadcaster and journalist Peter Snow will narrate the Hougoumont Farm battle re-enactment which is due to be attended by TRH The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and the current Duke and Duchess of Wellington.

The stirrups were given to their current owner by one of his ancestors who was a valet to the Duke of Wellington and he has loaned them for the event.

Michael Kerr, 13th Marquis of Lothian said; “We’re extremely grateful to have been given permission to use these precious, historic objects as part of our re-enactment.

“We think it is extremely fitting that the final time these stirrups will be used for riding will be for an event that commemorates the famous victory achieved by their original owner, Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington.”

The event on Sunday, June 28, features horses and soldiers from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (whose predecessor regiment the Scots Greys were famed for their bravery at Waterloo), members of the 94th Regiment of Foot and local Army and Air Cadets who will re-enact the Hougoumont Farm battle.

Gala’s Braw Lad and Lass and attendants have been counting down the days to Saturday’s extravaganza.

Following the ball on Saturday, held at the academy, Braw Lad Cameron Pate, Braw Lass Abbie Frankland, along with attendants Gavin Young, Alice Mackay, Daniel Whitehead and Lucy Black, attended the Kirkin’ ceremony on Sunday morning at Trinity Church and the Sports at Netherdale in the afternoon.

Monday brought the historic ride to Lindean, crossing the Tweed on the way. Cameron placed a wreath on the Preachers Cross, before the cavalcade of 168 riders headed back home, via the traditional Chases at Hollybush.

The swimming gala and the Ex-Braw Lads and Lasses Association Dinner took place on Tuesday night and the Torwoodlee ride-out, Fancy Dress Parade and Carnival Dance tonight.

With school visits on Friday and the Investiture Concert on Friday night, and, of course, an early start (8am) on Saturday, it’s certainly a breathless week.

bedrule

SWI

Members enjoyed their summer outing to Minto Golf Club for a meal. Competition – earrings – 1, Teela Ferguson; 2, Susan Govan; 3, Adele Richardson.

Caddonfoot

Parish church

The Reverend Elspeth Harley conducted morning service on Sunday before going to the kirkin’ of the Braw Lad and Lass in Trinity Church at Galashiels. Music was supplied by Andy and Catriona Bird, and daughter Georgie, who has raised more than £460 for Riding for the Disabled with a two-day sponsored silence. Anyone who can help BGH patients attend chaplaincy centre services is asked to contact Jo Lawson. There will be a meeting of the congregational board on June 25 at 7 pm in the church. Members should note that the service on July 5 will be a joint one in Trinity where Amy Ward, from Selkirk, will speak on her work in Guatemala. This service will be at 11.15am and there will be no service in Caddonfoot that day.

Canonbie

Guides

The village hall hosted local Guides celebrating the movement’s 100-year history with afternoon tea. Former and current Guides from Langholm and the village, along with ex-leaders and helpers, attended. The event was also to thank people from the community for their support over the years. There is no longer a Guides group in Langholm, but young people from the town are members of they village group.

carfraemill

Blythswood Care

The Blythswood Care lorry will be making its monthly visit to the Borders on July 6 to receive donations of clothing, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. Timetable – The Lodge, Carfraemill, 2.45-3pm.

EARLSTON

Parish church

Messy Church will be held in the church hall on June 27, from 10.30am to 1pm. The following day’s service is in the marquee and will be conducted by the Reverend Julie Woods. There will be a service in the church that night at 6.30pm.

eckford

Fair

The village hall is staging a strawberry fair on July 5 (11am-3pm).

GALASHIELS

Zumbathon

The Zumbathon held on Saturday at Langlee Community Centre in aid of Arthurshiel Rescue Centre raised in excess of £1,000.

Blythswood Care

The Blythswood Care lorry will be making its monthly visit to the Borders on July 6 to receive donations of clothing, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. Timetable – Asda, Galashiels, 12.50-1.10pm.

Trinity church

A packed church welcomed the family of Sophie Grace Swatton who was baptised during Sunday’s morning service, conducted by the Reverend Elspeth Harley. Also in attendance was Braw Lad Cameron Pate, Braw Lass Abbie Frankland, their attendants, parents, members of the Braw Lads’ Executive Council, life members and Galashiels councillors. Jim Letham played the piano because Dorothy Howden was on holiday. The Braw Lass presented rosettes to Sophie and Ryan, the baby’s four-year-old uncle. Katie, from the Kidz Klub, gave Sophie’s mother a posy of red and white roses, and the minister gave her a children’s Bible from the congregation. David Romanis, president of the Braw Lads’ Gathering, read the story of David and Goliath, before the minister invited the Braw Lad and Olivia, from the Kidz Klub, to help her demonstrate how David was able to overcome the giant. Sunday was also the last day of the Kidz Klub for this session and Cameron agreed to present the children with books.

HAWICK

Blythswood Care

The Blythswood Care lorry will be making its monthly visit to the Borders on July 6 to receive donations of clothing, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. Timetable – Morrison’s, Hawick, 11.15-11.40am.

Innerleithen

Service

Breakfast song and a story at 8.30am on June 28 in the Hall of Friendship, with a short service from 9am.

KELSO

Farmers’ market

A farmers’ market will be held on June 27 in Kelso Square from 9.30am-1.30pm.

Donation

Charity Begins At Home this week received a £105 donation from the sale of 5p carrier bags from Karen and the staff at Brown’s Newsagents.

Bridge club

June 17 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, Maureen Weightman and Helen Long; 2, Caroline Sutherland and Elinor Green; 3, Brian Saywood and Ken Ross; E/W – 1, Sheena McPherson and Sheila Urquhart; 2, Dominic and Diana Alkin; 3, Lynda Douglas and Lesley Dick. June 18 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, Jean McLaren and Ken Ross; 2, Rena Stewart and Maureen Weightman; 3, Ian Watson and Georgina Hall; E/W – 1, Jean Henry and Myra Thomson; 2, Annie Mitchell and John Loudon; 3, Brian Saywood and Sheila Urquhart.

Youth project

Kelso Youth Project’s GetAway Friday trips are now being booked and places going fast. Booking forms should be returned to The Planet as soon as possible. Forms are available from The Planet or by emailing ianrendallreid@cheviotyouth.co.uk. The MFA Bowling/WetNWild trip is fully booked.

Langholm

Probus

After president Irving Stuart had extended a welcome to 24 members at the latest meeting in the Eskdale Hotel, club business was discussed and it was noted that there were still some spare seats for the trip on August 19 to Dumfries House, and anyone wishing to book should contact Harry on 80873. The president then introduced member Jack Rae, who spoke about the Eskdale and Liddesdale Advertiser (E&L) talking newspaper. He took the gathering through the history of talking newspapers and into the modern era. They started in the UK when a librarian from Aberystwyth went on a study visit to Sweden where libraries issued reel-to-reel taped copies of their local newspaper. When he returned home he persuaded his Round Table to raise funds to set up a talking newspaper for the town’s blind residents. In 1974 the Talking Newspaper Association UK was set up. Twenty-two years later the late Arthur Bell, along with the late Alex Pool, got permission to produce audio copies of the E&L and they produced the first E&L talking newspaper which now involves four teams of six volunteers on a four-weekly rota for an hour each Friday morning. The Royal Mail deliver articles for the blind free of charge. Anyone wishing to make use of this service should contact the E&L Talking Newspaper, c/o Town Hall, Langholm DG13 0JQ.

Library

The new public library has opened for business, having been moved into the former gallery in the town hall, where it has become part of the customer service centre and registration service. There are a number of services other than book lending – free access to computers, council tax enquires and registration of births, deaths and marriages, and conducting of civil marriages, civil partnerships and citizen ship ceremonies.

MELROSE

Blythswood Care

The Blythswood Care lorry will be making its monthly visit to the Borders on July 6 to receive donations of clothing, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. Timetable – Melrose Rugby Club, 1.55-2.20pm.

Flower show

Melrose Flower Show schedules are available from the library and local shops.

Parish church

June 25 – 7pm, John Bryden concert (refreshments 6.30pm); foodbank ongoing; June 28 – services at 9.30am (Bowden) and 11am (Melrose).

Trimontium

Volunteers continue to man the museum and guide the walks (and welcome additional help). Preparations are ongoing for the outing on August 8 to the Antonine Wall. The trust’s contribution to the Melrose Festival lay in dressing the Roman soldier who greets the Melrosian over the centuries at the Trimontium Stone on the Saturday morning – and Scott Marjoribanks paraded in style (with help from museum valet staff). The return of trains to the central Borders at the beginning of September coincides with Borders Heritage Month, and a Roman soldier on the Tweedbank platform has been requested. June 25 – 1.30pm, Trimontium Walk.

morebattle

Fishing

Morebattle Fishing Club held a pairs competition on Saturday – 1, Jeannie McNulty and George Cessford; 2, Drew Gibson and Gilbert Elliot.

Tryst

Kelso Laddie Fraser Hastie and Jethart Callant Grant Raeburn met at The Trysting Tree in Morebattle on Sunday. Councillor Simon Mountford acted as master of ceremonies and introduced David Welsh, who gave the address. After the singing of the principals’ songs and the laying of a wreath at the war memorial, the dancing of the reel took place with four girls from Morebattle school – Josie Schaeli, Christie-Jean Lynn, Lucy Thomson and Kym Cessford.

Newcastleton

Craft fair

A week-long craft fair in the village raised more than £4,000 for the hall fabric fund. This is the main fundraiser for the hall committee who are grateful to the volunteers for their help in the kitchen and tea room, and the work of Kirsty Murray who played a main role in organising the event.

selkirk

Blythswood Care

The Blythswood Care lorry will be making its monthly visit to the Borders on July 6 to receive donations of clothing, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. Timetable – West Port car park, 12.10-12.30pm.

Stichill

Fun day

The 10k run starts at noon on June 27, but there is the option of walking the course, leaving Stichill at 11.15am. Or just come along and give runners and walkers support and encouragement. Entry is available on the day, or you can email Ian Stewart at bordercookware@gmail.com. ‘Like’ the ‘Stichill 10k Run’ on the Facebook page for updates. Mark Rutherford, from Kelso Sports Massage Clinic, will be on hand to offer pre and post-run treatment for anyone taking part. He has also donated sports massage vouchers to the first male and female finishers. There will be an opportunity to buy burgers after the run. The village family sports day kicks off at 3pm on the playpitch beside the village hall. A barbecue and hog roast will take place at the village hall from 6pm. Tickets for the barbecue are available on the gate.

Traquair

Service

There will be a service in Traquair Kirk at 10.30am on June 28.

tweedbank

Art club

Tweedbank Art Club’s annual exhibition runs from June 26-30 (10am-5pm).

Turn to page 38

From page 39

Walkerburn

Service

The next service in Walkerburn Public Hall will be on July 19 at 10.30am.

yarrowford

Epilepsy fundraiser

The Stella and Dot Trunk Show and coffee morning held at Yarrowford raised £337.62 for Epilepsy Scotland.

YETHOLM

AGM

The Youth Hall AGM is tonight (Thursday) at 7.30pm in the Wauchope Hall.

Shepherds’ show

A shepherds’ show EGM will be held tonight (Thursday) at 8pm in the Wauchope Hall.

Choir

Yetholm village choir will be performing in Norham Church at 7.30pm on June 28.

Festival Week

The last meeting of the session will take place on June 29 at 7.30pm in theYouth Hall – the public is welcome to attend and give feedback on how Festival Week went.

Council

Community councillors meet on June 30 at 7pm in the Youth Hall.

Coffee break

Coffee in Church from 10.30am-noon on July 1.

NHS Borders has “fully accepted” the findings of a watchdog which has upheld a complaint from a male patient with heart problems.

Evelyn Rodger, the health board’s interim director of acute services, admits that aspects of his treatment had “not met expected standards”.

She has also given an assurance that lessons will be learned to improve services and the way complaints are handled.

Ms Rodger was speaking after the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) published the result of an investigation into the complaint from a patient, referred to as Mr C.

Despite having “long-standing heart problems”, he claimed he had failed to receive a cardiology service at the Borders General Hospital for a period of nearly 18 months.

Upholding the complaint, the watchdog said Mr C had not been recalled for his routine six-monthly cardiology review appointment.

“The board said this was because, after he declined surgery for an unrelated medical condition, surgeons did not let the cardiology department know that the surgery would not go ahead,” states the SPSO report.

“We found that even after Mr C’s GP referred him again, it took too long and considerable effort on his part to get another cardiology appointment.

“The board acknowledged that there were problems with workload within the administration team and apologised for the failing. They acknowledged the delay was unacceptable…and took steps to monitor workflow within the administration team. We found that these were reasonable actions.”

The ombudsman also found “shortcomings” in the way Mr C’s complaint had been dealt with at the hospital. “The initial response to Mr C’s complaint made no

reference to key points he had raised – nor did it refer to the difficulties he experienced when he contacted the board by phone,” states the SPSO.

“We found that the board had apologised for the fact that a room used for a meeting [to discuss Mr C’s complaint] had been very small and full of people when he arrived.

“We found that the cumulative effect of these errors made Mr C feel his complaints were not being taken seriously.”

The ombudsman has recommended NHS Borders reviews the process “by which patients are discharged from one service to another and back again…and to build in safeguards to ensure the system is robust”.

Ms Rodger told us: “We have assured the ombudsman that we recognise and regret the aspects of the patient’s treatment and complaint handling that did not meet expected standards.”

A community event will be held today (Thursday) to provide an update on the new Kelso High and Broomlands Primary school projects.

It runs from 10am to 7pm in the current high school’s assembly hall.

Scottish Borders Council says only “contractors of the highest calibre and with proven experience” should bid to build the region’s first education unit for children with complex needs in Earlston.

That requirement is explicit in procurement documents published last week for the project, estimated to be worth £1.1million.

The council intends awarding the contract in September with shortlisted firms invited to submit formal tenders by the end of July.

The facility, on a site next to Earlston Primary and due to be operational next year, will replace the dispersed provision for youngsters on the autism spectrum which is currently delivered at Wilton in Hawick, St Ronan’s in Innerleithen and at Howdenburn Schoolhouse in Jedburgh.

It currently costs the council around £150,000 per pupil per year to have Borders children with complex needs educated outwith the region.

“If pupils who might otherwise be placed outside the authority to meet their educational needs choose to stay in the new facility, then significant savings will accrue,” stated a recent report to councillors.

“The Earlston site provides close links with learning communities and other educational opportunities, is in close proximity to primary and secondary [Earlston High] mainstream provision and provides life-skills opportunities within the town centre.

“It also provides improved accessibility within the Borders, reducing travelling times for vulnerable children and maximising the use of expertise within SBC and NHS Borders.

“The centre will provide full and part-time school places, assessments, training and outreach.”

Councillors have already given planning consent for the design which will be of traditional masonry and rendered walls with a large feature rooflight and aluminium doors and windows. The contract includes the provision of a hard and soft landscaped garden.

A Borders man feels he is “being punished for being disabled” after receiving a £1,000 invoice for the support that allows him to work.

Steven Oliver, who has Asperger’s syndrome, had been receiving Self-Directed Support (SDS) through an outreach service provided by Autism Initiatives Scotland (AIS) for the last year.

This support had enabled him to work in a part-time job, for five hours a week.

But Steven, who is from Duns, was told in November last year that Scottish Borders Council was to introduce a contribution to the cost, and in May he received an invoice for £1,049. An appeal against the decision was not upheld, on the grounds that Steven could reduce his outgoings to meet the cost.

Steven said: “While I understand that savings have to be made, the council’s attitude – which appears to be one of ‘not our problem’ – is disgraceful.

“Part of having Asperger’s is the intense anxiety of situations like this, so you can imagine how receiving such an invoice made me feel.

“The fortnightly meetings with my social worker are designed to combat that. She’s really helped me, even things like decorating my flat, things I couldn’t do on my own.”

An SBC spokesperson said: “While SBC would not wish to discuss individual cases, we are working with all service users to ensure that no one is deprived of essential services or faces financial hardship due to their contribution to the cost of these services.

“All charges are based upon an ability to pay and there are mechanisms in place to assess this for every individual.”

There were cheers and tears on a chilly June night when Peebles Cornet Keiran Scott was entrusted with custody of the burgh flag.

On a platform at the foot of the parish church steps, the 24-year-old watched with pride as the flag was bussed with his ribbon by Cornet’s Lass, 21-year-old Beth Williamson.

It was with some understandable reluctance that 2014 Cornet Kevin Smith surrendered custody of the banner, unsullied and untarnished, after a enjoyable year in office with his Lass, Sharon Rusnak.

Cornet Scott told Beltane chairman Keith Brunton and the hundreds who had gathered for the ceremony: “My family have been over the moon since I was approached in March, and my dad, at times, has been more excited than me. Without all the help and support I have had all my life, I would never have been able to stand here tonight.”

Lass Beth was following in the footsteps of her mum and dad, Andrew and Joyce, who were Cornet and Lass in 1988.

Before the gathered crowd, she told them: “To be given the opportunity to do what you did all those years ago is a great privilege. I just hope I can carry out all my tasks as well as you.”

The installation ceremony was conducted with precision by Beltane chairman Keith.

Looking on was primary seven pupil Emma Latto who would be crowned Beltane Queen on the Saturday, accompanied by her immediate court.

For Cornet Scott and his mounted supporters, it was time to take to the saddle and ride the marches. The burgh boundary was cried at Soonhope by local solicitor Morris Anderson.

The principals made a halt at Neidpath Castle. At this ancient keep – grim and grey with years – Haystoun Estate’s head gardener, Eric Gilmour, was installed as Warden of Neidpath, a position held by his late brother, Harry, in 1991.

Beltane chairman Keith said Eric had involved himself wholeheartedly in many aspects of Peebles life.

Eric spoke of his boyhood days in Peebles before turning to his main theme – the Beltane. He declared that if the Warden of Neidpath had a wish, it would be that the citizens’ committee which founded the Red Letter Day in 1899 with the first crowning of the Beltane Queen that year could return to see the rich inheritance which they left for the children.

He added: “I am sure they would be pleased to see the joy that this has brought though the years to children and adults alike. They planted a young seed and just like the mighty oak from a tiny acorn grows, so our Beltane has grown, but is still very much recognisable.

“The oak is majestic, proud and beautiful. But like all trees and plants, needs care, support and nurturing – as does our Beltane Festival.”

He described the Beltane as a festival by the people for the people.

And he went on: “We are but custodians of our festival – caring and nurturing it, as it develops over the years. From only one main primary school, now to three bursting at the seams – with the parish church steps unable to be enlarged to take all our children on Saturday morning for the most fantastic spectacle that is our crowning ceremony – we try to retain its origins and yet keep up to date. The children used to be in horse-drawn lorries, but now they are on motorised decorated floats. What will it be for the future?

“I have every faith that our present custodians will ensure that our March Riding and Beltane Queen Festival will continue, just like the oak, strong and majestic, with its future well assured. It may always need some slight changes – just in the same way that plants can suffer from the elements. If not nurtured and cared for, they will just ‘weed awa’. But, if members of our community come forward to join and support our Beltane committee, our festival’s future will remain – ‘the flo’er o’ a’ the Borders’.”

The principals rejoined the cavalcade, and Cuddy and Tweed were forded before the riders made their way to the golf course for the horse races which included the scamper for the Beltane Bell .

Then it was back to the town where the Cornet’s Reel was danced on the High Street and the principals enjoyed a well-earned sup from the Australian Stirrup Cup.

Once again Peebles had ridden her marches and listened to well-chosen words of wisdom below ancient Neidpath Castle, high above a sweeping bend of the gently-swirling water of the Tweed alongside which this royal and ancient burgh sits.

A drug user with a £20-£30 daily habit grew his own cannabis at his Galashiels home, Selkirk Sheriff Court heard this week.

Police turned up at the Hill Street property, occupied by Andrew Mercer, with a warrant.

“They went to his home address and found the accused there with his partner,” explained procurator fiscal Graham Fraser.

During a search of the house, officers found seven cannabis plants and six pieces of herbal matter. There was a small-scale cultivation, with a total value of about £1,000, continued Mr Fraser, adding: “The largest bundle was about 73gms, but that was mostly leaf matter.”

The fiscal said the Crown accepted that the find was for the accused’s own personal use, adding: “He said that he smoked £20 to £30 worth of cannabis a day and that he grew it and cropped the drugs.”

Mercer, 43, admitted producing cannabis at his home on December 2 last year and possession of the illegal drug.

Defence solicitor Ed Hulme confirmed his client was growing cannabis for his own use.

The lawyer went on: “He had an expensive habit at the time and has not in any way miniminsed his actions.

“He now no longer uses cannabis.

“This was a trigger for him to change his ways.”

Sheriff John Rafferty sentenced Mercer to a 12-month community payback order with 160 hours of unpaid work, warning him that this was a direct alternative to custody.

Hawick: Footpath adjacent to block 7 closed at Stonefield Place from March 23 to July 24 to accommodate scaffolding for building repairs. Stonefield Place South Section to close on May 25 for three weeks for installation of new drainage to new development. Alternative Route will be via Liddesdale Road and Stonefield Place or that route in reverse. North section closed on June 15 for three weeks. 24 hour closure. Alternative Route for both closures will be via Liddesdale Road and Stonefield Place or that route in reverse. Stirches Road closure, July 6 for 10 weeks, from Wellfield Road to Raeson Park, to lay new gas main. Alternative route – southbound – via – Stirches Road, Guthrie Drive, A7 Wilton Hill, Princes Street, Dickson Street; northbound – the above in reverse.

Jedburgh Callants’ Festival: Southdean Rideout – June 27 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 12.45pm and 7.30pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

Malestroit Court, DJ31/3 Old Bongate, A68 Bongate, DJ44/3 Waterside Road, DJ9/3 Boundaries, C41 Oxnam Road, DJ53/3 Howdenburn Road, D82/3 from Howdenburn Road to the D83/3 at Howden, D83/3 from the D82/3 at Howden to the coach house, C30 from Glendouglas to Dolphinston, C32 from newhouse cottage to A68 at Camptown, C31 from Mervinslaw to Falside, A6088 at Southdean, C35 from Cumingshill to Ash Trees, B6357 at Swinnie, B6358 from Jedburgh Golf Course – Market Place.

Crailing/Nisbet Rideout – July 1 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 5.45pm and 10.15pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

Malestroit Court, DJ31/3 Old Bongate, A68 at Old Bongate to Waterside Road, DJ44/3 Waterside Road, D150/3 east of west of Ulston to C63 at Woodend, C63 at Woodend to A698 at Mounthooly, A698 at Mounthooley, B6400 form west Nisbet to D147/4 at Kirkmains, A698 from Crailing Tofts Cottages to D147/4 at Kirkmains, D147/4 from the A698 south of Crailing Bhan to the B6400, D32/4 from the C61 east of Down Law to B6400 north of Monteviot House, A68 south of Monteviot Toll to Cleikemin, A698 at Cleikemin, D97/3 from Monklaw to A68 at Bonjedward, A68 from Bonjedward to High Street, Jedburgh, C38 High Street, B6358 Market Place.

Redeswire Rideout – July 4 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 9.30am and 7pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

DJ31/3 Old Bongate, DJ45/3 Bridge Street, C38 High Street, DJ46/3 Abbey Place/Abbey Bridge End, A68 Newcastle Road, C41 Oxnam Road, DJ53/3 Howdenburn Road, D82/3 from Howdenburn Road to Scraesburgh, D87/3 Scraesburgh to Mossburnford, C30 Mossburnford to Dolphinston, D84/3 Falla road, C33 Edgerston to North Riccalton, C32 Camptown to Oxnam, B6358 Market Place.

Queens Ride – July 6 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 5.45pm and 10.15pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

DJ31/3 Old Bongate, DJ45/3 Bridge Street, C38 High Street, DJ36/3 Queen Street, B6358 Market Place to Golf Club.

Lanton Ride – July 7 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 4.15pm and 10.15pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

DJ31/3 Old Bongate, DJ45/3 Bridge Street, C38 High Street, C38 Exchange Street/Lanton Road, B6358 Market Place.

Ancrum Ride – July 8 2015. The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 5pm and 10.45pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

DJ31/3 Old Bongate, A68 Bonjedward to Newcastle Road, DJ4/3 Waterside Road, DJ32/3 Old Bridge End, DJ418/3 Bridge over Jed Water, DJ71/3 Duck Row, B6358 Canongate/Market Place, C38 Exchange Street/Lanton Road, A698 Timpendean to A68 junction, C42 South Myrescroft, D68/4, D69/4, B6400 Ancrum village, D97/3 Monklaw to Jedburgh, C38 High Street.

Investiture of Callant – Thursday July 9 2015. Closed to vehicular traffic from 6.30pm to 8.30pm – Abbey Place / Rampart Area. Alternative route – Southbound – east on Canongate and South on the A68 to the point of closure. Northbound – the above in reverse. Parking prohibited from 7am – 2pm on C38 Exchange Street (both sides), DJ46/3 Abbey place (roadside edge of parking bays), Murray’s Green Car Park (at roadside),

B6358 Canongate, DJ32/3 Old Bridgend, DJ44/3 Waterside Road, DJ15/3 Elliot road, DJ27/3 Headrig.

Festival Day – Friday July 10 2015.

Closed to vehicular traffic from 8am to 5pm – Abbey Place / Rampart Area. Alternative route – Southbound – east on Canongate and South on the A68 to the point of closure. Northbound – the above in reverse.

Closed to vehicular traffic from 8am to 5pm – A68 from B6357 junction to Edinburgh Road Jedburgh. Alternative Route – Southbound – North on the A68, West on the A698, South East on the A6088 and North on the A68 to point of closure. Northbound – the above in reverse.

Parking prohibited from 7am – 2pm – C38 Exchange Street (both sides), DJ46/3 Abbey place (roadside edge of parking bays), Murray’s Green Car Park (at roadside), B6358 Canongate, DJ32/3 Old Bridgend, DJ44/3 Waterside Road, DJ15/3 Elliot road, DJ27/3 Headrig.

The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 7.45am and 5pm. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

DJ31/3 Old Bongate, DJ45/3 Bridge Street, C38 High Street, DJ46/3 Abbey Place/Abbey Bridge End, A68 Edinburgh Road to Lintalee, C41 Oxnam Road, DJ6/3 Blair Avenue, DJ29/3 Lothian Road, DJ53/3 Howdenburn Road

D82/3 Howden road, D83/3, C30, D96/3 Hundalee, B6358 Market Place/Canongate, DJ32/3 Old Bridge End, DJ44/3 Waterside Road, DJ35/3 Priors Road.

Fancy Dress – July 10 2015. Closed to vehicular traffic from 5pm to 6.15pm – Abbey Bridge End – from the Glebe car park to the Town hall Car Park.

The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic between 17:00 and 20:00. These closures will only come into effect at such times when under the instruction of a police officer in uniform.

Abbey Place, Market Square, High Street, Queens Street, Cannongate.

Parking prohibited from 5pm to 8pm – Queens Street.

Selkirk: Footbridge/Footpath Closure at South Bridge Street Footbridge/Victoria Park Footpath on May 13 for 20 weeks to carry out works associated with the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme. An alternative footpath route will be signposted. Road closure at Riverside Road at its junction with Level Crossing Road for a distance of 70m (approx) in a north-easterly direction, April 20 to August 21, to carry out works associated with the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme. 24-hour closure. Alternative route – Northbound via Level Crossing Road, Dunsdale Haugh, temporary access road through Recycling Centre and Riverside Road to point of closure. Southbound via the above in reverse. Riverside Road Footbridge closed from May 15 for 20 weeks to carry out works associated with the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme. 24 hour closure. Alternative footpath signposted.

Riverside Road/Level Crossing Road 24-hour closure from July 6 to October 1 for works associated with Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme. Riverside Road, at its junction with Level Crossing Road, for a distance of 260m (approx.) in a north-easterly direction to carry out works associated with the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme. Alternative route – northbound – via Level Crossing Road, Dunsdale Haugh, temporary access road through recycling centre and Riverside Road to point of closure; southbound – via the above in reverse.

C41 Corbet Burn east of Morebattle: Road closed from June 1 for six weeks for bridge replacement. Alternative route – northbound – via C41, C32, C39, C40, B6401 and C41 to point of closure; southbound – via the prior in reverse.

B6396 Kelso to Wooler road: Closure for patching works – July 7 for 4 days between the hours of 8am-4pm. Alternative route – eastbound – west on the B6396, south-east on the B6352, north on the B6352 and west on the B6396 to point of closure; westbound – the above in reverse.