Scotrail has blamed Sunday’s train chaos in the Borders on Sunday on their efforts to keep trains running smoothly in Glasgow.

The company said that sickness and holiday cover were also to blame as 12 services between Tweedbank and Edinburgh were cancelled on that day,

A spokesman for Scotrail said: “Unfortunately, we experienced train crew shortages across the network on Sunday.

“It’s worth noting that we need more crew to cover train timetables during the current Glasgow Queen Street tunnel timetable diversions and we have achieved this by efficient utilisation of existing staff resources.

“Sickness and holiday cover are also factors at the moment, but we are continuing our efforts to mitigate this.”

Passengers looking for a quick journey to the capital were understandably less than pleased as replacement buses were put on instead of the timetabled trains.

The spokesman added: “We worked hard to limit the impact on our customers by sourcing replacement buses and having extra staff at key locations to help our customers get to where they needed to be.

“We also took steps to give our customers as much notice as possible by posting general alerts on our website, social feeds and platform screens.

“We work round the clock to try and cover the timetable and encourage customers to check – and keep checking – their own journeys by using Journey Check or the ScotRail app before they travel.”

More rail chaos can be expected in the near future – including EU Referendum Day on June 23 – as guards are set to stage six 24-hour strikes in the coming weeks in a dispute over driver-only trains. Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union are expected to walk out on June 21, 23 and 25 and on July 3, 10 and 17.

Euan Reilly had no trouble summing up what it had meant to him to be this year’s Hawick Cornet.

“It meant everything to me,” said the 23-year-old, a joiner by trade.

“I never thought I was going to get the chance to be cornet in the first place, so to have been given the amazing opportunity to experience it all means I’m chuffed to bits, over the moon,” he said just minutes after dancing the traditional reel with his supporters and lasses outside Towermill to mark the end of 2016’s Hawick Common Riding on Saturday.

It has been a busy six weeks for Cornet Reilly since his appointment back at the beginning of May, culminating in the common riding’s main ceremonies last Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

On Saturday afternoon, the Cornet led the official mounted cavalcade back into the town to wind up the annual event.

And as he approached the town hall for the last time to return the flag he had borne with such distinction and pride throughout the common riding, it was clear from his fight to keep his emotions in check how much it really had all meant to Euan.

“Proud, so very proud, that’s how I feel right now,” he said. “Obviously, you get the few folk that doubt you. I just had to prove them wrong, which hopefully I did.

“Highlights for me were all the huts and mairs. They were fantastic experiences.”

Asked if he had any advice for his successors as cornet, Euan replied: “ Just go for it and don’t hold back. You’ll make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.”

It was also an emotional moment on Saturday for his left-hand man Ross Gibson as he came to the end of three years as a principal.

“It’s a bit of a strange feeling today, to be honest,” he said. “A lot of people would love to do it and be Cornet, so I was delighted when I got the opportunity.

“The last three years’ duties have been very time-consuming, but it’s been everything I always wanted to do, and as it was coming to an end, I found it very hard and pretty emotional.”

Common riding chairman Ian Scott, in his second year in office, had nothing but praise for all those involved from the Cornet on down. “It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s not just the common riding committee,” he said. “There is a host of other organisations and clubs, like the Mosstroopers Club, which all play a vital part in making the common riding such a success each year.

“Of course, being involved as chairman is not the same as riding it, but that is made up for with the massive feeling of satisfaction that comes from seeing the common riding go so well and everyone have such a great time.”

And while the weather for the main ceremonial days was not as sunny as earlier in the week, Mr Scott said it was better than what had been forecast.

“I think we were very lucky with the actual weather conditions because it had been predicted to be much worse,” he said.

Friday had dawned overcast and cloudy, but that could not dampen the almost-palpable excitement in the air.

A 281-strong mounted cavalcade followed the Cornet to the Nipknowes for the main chase of the Common Riding and to ride the marches of the burgh’s common.

Saturday’s events and rideout also went off without a hitch, and a sizeable crowd lined High Street later in the afternoon to witness the Cornet return the flag unsullied and untarnished.

 Look out for our eight-page Hawick Common Riding pullot in the middle of this week’s paper.

Borders police have arrested a man following the recovery of Class A drugs in Galashiels.

On Tuesday (June 14), a warrant was an executed at a flat in the High Street.

A quantity of Diamorphine powder, with an estimated street value of £8,000, was recovered.

The 28-year-old appeared at Jedburgh Sheriff Court yesterday (Wednesday).

Detective Inspector Paul Batten said: “Through Operation Gatekeeper, we’re continuing to utilise a number of resources to remove illicit substances.

“If you’re concerned about drug misuse in your community, please get in touch as we will investigate all the information we receive.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Council leaders and tourism chiefs have welcomed the news that steam train trips are set to return to the Borders Railway this autumn.

Tickets have gone on sale for the much-anticipated return of ScotRail steam services, beginning on Sunday, August 7.

Following the success of last year’s sell-out trips, on Sundays during August and September, passengers have the chance to travel from Edinburgh Waverley to Tweedbank and back, in the comfort of a beautifully refurbished vintage carriage.

August’s trips will be hauled by 46100 Royal Scot, and September’s will see the return of the popular 60009 Union of South Africa on the Borders Railway.

The trips are scheduled to run until September 25.

ScotRail has also partnered with local companies to offer add-on passenger excursions upon arrival in Tweedbank, in partnership with Abbotsford House, Selkirk Means Business, Seasons Resturant in Melrose, Rabbies and Telford Coaches.

Cathy Craig, Commercial Director for the ScotRail Alliance, said: “It is with great pleasure that we’re announcing the return of steam services to the Borders Railway.

“Not many train journeys can match the outstanding scenery on this route, and I look forward to seeing how successful these trips will be.”

David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “I am delighted to see the return of the steam train trips to the Borders Railway.

“The trips were extremely successful last year with thousands of people visiting the Borders thanks to the journeys. I am pleased a number of local companies will be involved in 2016 to build on this success.”

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Fiona Hyslop added: “It’s fantastic that 2016 will see the return of these iconic trains to the Scottish Borders Railway. After their sell out season last year the opportunity to visit Abbotsford and other attractions in the area shows the prospects for different sectors to work together to grow the tourism economy of the Scottish Borders.”

Danny Cusick, chair of the Borders Railway Blueprint Leaders Group, said: “Following a hugely successful inaugural steam train experience last year, we are delighted that this year will see an even better and enhanced steam train experience for the Borders Railway.

“World-famous steam trains will allow passengers to see one of the world’s most beautiful and scenic railway routes in classic style.”

For details on ScotRail’s steam services, visit www.scotrail.co.uk/steam-trains.

ASHKIRK

Barbecue

On Saturday, June 25, there will be a barbecue at the village hall and garden between 4-6pm. Everyone is welcome.

CADDONFOOT

Parish church

The Reverend Julie Woods, from Earlston Parish Church, conducted the service on Sunday following the local congregational review conducted by herself and the Reverend Samuel Siroky, of Ettrick and Yarrow, on behalf of Melrose and Peebles presbytery. Julie was accompanied by Earlston elder Tom Burnham, who led the Prayer of Approach and Confession. The Bible reading was read by Christine Dorward and music played by Margaret Blyth. Bible study during the summer months is being held in Caddonfoot Church. The trial opening of the church last week got off to a good start with a few visitors – anyone wishing to volunteer should contact Irene Bruce. The gardens at Yair House, open under Scotland’s Gardens Scheme last week, was a success in the sunshine with part of the proceeds going to the church. Deirdrie Thyne thanked members of the congregation who helped on the day. Congregational Board members meet in the church on Thursday, June 23, at 7pm.

darnick

Quiz

Darnick Village Trust last Friday realised, via a quiz, £441 for Parkinson’s UK – its latest fundraising efforts for villagers’ chosen charity. The winning team, ‘Pekajobach’, narrowly beat the ‘Darnick Dib Dabs’ as a result of a tie-break question, with ‘Friends United’ enjoying the edible booby prizes. The total includes sales of tablet made by a Darnick resident and CDs provided by Kathy Stewart and sold at her String Jam Club concert on Saturday night. A huge contribution to the total was from the quiz raffle, with a large number of prizes secured by Jenny Anderson, who made individual approaches to Melrose businesses and collected the items for the trust. Velvet Hall Alpacas of Innerleithen donated a guided family trek for auction, and Flora Colton of Selkirk placed the winning bid.

earlston

Tea party

A strawberry tea party in aid of those suffering from breast cancer will be held on Saturday, June 18, at Earlston Rugby Club from 2pm.

Parish church

The service on Sunday, June 19, starts at 10.15am. Next Sunday, June 26, sees the congregational walk to Anne and Gerry’s at West Lodge, Carolside, after the service.

ECCLES

School memories

Do you have memories of being at Eccles Leitholm School? On Friday, June 24, between 10.30am and noon, staff and pupils will welcome those who have memories to share. There will be refreshments and biscuits available. This is also an opportunity to have a look around the school and see some of the resources the children use to help them learn.

Eckford

Strawberry fair

The latest strawberry fair realised in excess of £800 for village hall funds. A new twist was introduced with a ‘Play Your Cards Right’ game hosted by Harry Grant from Sprouston. The produce table, plants, books and craft stalls were also well received.

edgerston

SWI

The June meeting took the form of an outing on the Borders Railway to Newtongrange to visit the National Mining Museum. The guide had been a miner at the Lady Victoria Coal Mine for 30 years and had a fund of information at his command which he shared enthusiastically. The artefacts and explanatory boards in the museum were also enlightening to those with little knowledge of mining techniques or the extensive areas of coal reserves in Scotland. The next meeting is on September 14 at 2pm when Nicky Kershaw will speak on Care in the Community and Elder Voice.

ednam

Queen’s birthday

Villagers celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday on Sunday at the village hall with an afternoon tea party and sports. The weather managed to hold out, allowing children to have their races. There was also a bake-off competition, judged by Pat Dagg from Stitchill. Victoria Sponge – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, Agnes Allan; 3, Anne Oliver. Tray Bake – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, John Nairn. Decorated Teacake – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, Agnes Allan; 3, Maria Oliver. Kids’ Cupcake – 1, Ben Nairn; 2, Zoe Nairn. Decorated Biscuit – 1, Ben Nairn; 2, Gregor Oliver; 3, Zoe Nairn; 4, Emily Oliver; 5, Finlay Oliver.

ettrickbridge

SWI

Members came away from Gardening Scotland, held at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh, with a second in the SWI national window box competition with their red, white and blue tribute to the Queen’s 90th birthday, together with a highly commended chutney in the produce section. This was followed by last Wednesday’s outing to Born in the Borders at Lanton. The evening began with a tour of the brewery, beer tasting in the bottle shop, the opportunity to browse and buy from the gift shop, followed by supper in the brewery restaurant. The next meeting on Wednesday, September 14 – an open night when Alice Mackay and Lucy Black, of Beau Beautique, will give a beauty demonstration.

FOUNTAINHALL

SWI

For the last meeting of this session, members enjoyed a meal at the Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, following a visit to Caddon Design at Clovenfords. Competition results from the May meeting – three ginger snaps – 1, Agnes Mathison; 2, Dianne Wilson; picture frame – 1, Janice Currie; 2, Margaret Marshall. Members next meet again in the village hall at 7.30pm on Wednesday, September 21.

gALASHIELS

St Peter’s Church

Thursday, June 16 – 10am, communion in the church hall, followed by study group and soup lunch. Saturday, June 18 – 12.30pm, Fair Trade coffee morning and bake sale; Sunday, June 19 – 8.30am, holy communion; 9.30am, Sunday Squad, followed by juice and toast; 10.30am, sung eucharist, followed by coffee and chat. Monday, June 20 –10am, communion at Oakwood Park. Tuesday, June 21 – 3pm, afternoon tea service. Thursday, June 23 – church closed all day for EU referendum voting.

glendouglas

SWI

The ‘Evening with the Callant’ is to take place on Wednesday, June 22 (7.30pm). Tickets for the event are £2.50 (or one can pay at the door). Supper is provided and all are welcome to attend.

hawick

Wilton Dean SWI

President Joyce Tinlin welcomed members and visitors to the open night. The gathering was entertained by singers Quintessence, who were then was joined by the Wilton Dean choir. Competition – favourite tea plate – 1, Susie Finlayson; 2, Lynn Walker. Visitors’ competition – 1, Jean Welsh (Burnfoot SWI). Various raffle prizes were won. The next meeting is on Tuesday, June 21, which is the outing – meet at the Haugh at 5.45pm. Contact Lesley for supper details.

Hownam

Coffee morning

A coffee morning in aid of The Moonwalk 2016 and Cheviot Churches will take place in the village hall on Saturday, June 18, from 10am.

Towford SWI

Results from the whist held in Hownam Hall on May 24 – ladies – 1, Jean Rae; 2, Joan Kyle; 3, Betty Fleming; 4, Mary Tait; booby, Anne Redpath; longest sitter, Rose Cameron; gents – 1, Pat Young; 2, Jean McNulty; 3, Angus Cameron; 4, Christine Ballantyne; booby, Peter Hedley; longest sitter, Kenny Tait; sweep – 1 and 2, Rory Buchanan; 3, Dot Lee. On June 7, the summer night out was to Born in the Borders – a tour of the brewery was followed by beer tasting and retail therapy. Supper was served in the restaurant. The annual Roxburghshire Federation golf competition was held on a beautiful afternoon on June 9 at Minto Golf Club. Due to other club commitments, only five players took part, with Mary Towers and Maria Smail being the successful pair to go on to represent the federation at the national finals on August 29 at Fortrose and Rosemarkie. Trish Kirkpatrick organised the afternoon.

innerleithen

Church

Sunday, June 19 – breakfast, 8.30am; song and a story, 9am; service, 10.30am.

Coffee morning

The piping society’s coffee morning will take place on Saturday, June 18, in the Vale Club from 10am-noon.

Games committee

The next meeting of St Ronan’s Border Games committee will take place on Thursday, June 23, at 7pm in the Vale Club.

Football Fives

Entries for the Games Week Football Fives tournament (July 9) are being accepted. To enter, contact Steven Notman on 07792 092118.

Overseas guests

Every year St Ronan’s Border Games Committee tries to accommodate visitors from overseas who are staying in the town during Games Week

Turn to page 52

From page 51

as guests at the Cleikum Ceremonies. This year’s ceremonies will take place on Friday, July 15, and applications for overseas guest invitations are now being accepted by email – stronansgames@googlemail.com.

Social

St Ronan’s Games Senior Citizens’ Social is open to all retired folks in the district. It will be held on Thursday, July 7, in the Memorial Hall with doors open at 7pm. Tickets are free of charge and can now be collected from the Thrift Shop. Entertainment will be provided by Bill Harvey and Stuart Henry, with dancing to Graham Halliday. A supper will be provided and a bar is available.

kelso

Bridge club

June 5 – Kelso Congress (57 pairs entered this year) – 1, Robert Francombe and George Graham; 2, Janet Unsworth and Catherine Hepburn; 3, Rita Chester and Rita Stockdale. Swiss teams – 1, Mary Grant, Andrew Grant, Rita Chester, Rita Stockdale; 2 (equal), Alistair Rae, Maurice Franceschi, Catriona Gardiner, Elizabeth Peckham, and Robin Sharp, Jan Sharp, Alistair Small, Sheila Small. June 8 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, Rena Stewart and Helenor Pratt; 2, John and Marian Miller; 3, Val Johnstone and Chris Anthony; E/W – 1, Sheena McPherson and Sheila Urquhart; 2, Ian and Eliz Ross; 3, Brian Saywood and Ken Ross. June 9 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, Michael Horwood and Alison Ireland; 2, Rena Stewart and Maureen Weightman; 3, Brian Saywood and Miles Browne; E/W – 1, Helenor Pratt and Pauline Smart; 2, Richard Oates and Sheena West; 3, Mary and Nigel Lindsay.

Royal celebration

A royal celebration will be held on Sunday, June 26, at Kelso North Church. A Royal Tea Party in the church hall runs from 3.30-5.30pm. There will be a children’s fancy dress and cake competition. This will be followed by a Royal Songs of Praise at 6.30pm. Tickets for the party are available at the door – £5 per adult, with children free. Proceeds from the party and retiring collection will go towards a defibrillator. This event is being organised by the south-east Scotland branch of the Order of St John.

Stitchers

Kelso Stitchers meet on Tuesday, June 28, at 7pm in Abbey Row Centre. Sally Scott-Aiton will be giving a talk entitled ‘Classic embroidery in cross stitch – a Borders journey’. Members should bring their mugs. For further information, contact Rineke Sangster on 01573 229414.

langholm

Colours

As usual, the Derby was watched with great interest on TV in the town, because the colours of the Common Riding, as is tradition, come from the winning owner, and this year are green and red. The winner of the Investec Derby at Epsom was Harzand, owned and bred by the Aga Khan, and trained in Ireland by Dermot Weld and ridden by Pat Smullen at odds of 13-2. This was the fifth occasion the Aga Khan had owned the winner, the last time being Sinndar in 2000.

Classic cars

Cheam Probus Club member Mike Baker, along with fellow Alvis owner club members David and Stewart Little, attracted great interest when they had a pit stop at the Eskdale Hotel, home to the local Probus Club, on their way to the Shetland Classic Motor Show via Aberdeen and the Northlink ferry. These cars have toured America, east and west coasts, Australia, Europe and Scandinavia.

Sponsored cycle

Local minister Scott McCarthy has completed a sponsored cycle challenge from Barnsley to Amsterdam to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, and at present he has reached more than £2,000. He was cycling for Langholm Legion FC and was one of around 300 football fans who took up the challenge, and they were joined by former England internationals Viv Anderson and Terry Butcher, along with former Welsh international Nathan Blake. The group have so far raised around £400,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. They started from Barnsley FC and cycled over 70 miles to Craven Park, home of rugby league side Hull Kingston Rovers. The group took the overnight ferry from Hull, arriving on the Saturday morning in Rotterdam. They then arrived at Amsterdam Arena late Saturday afternoon. Scott’s time for both legs of the 147-mile trip was 10 hours, 27 minutes and 27 seconds. During his time in Amsterdam, he met Ross Luescher – born and brought up in Eskdale, and who often played the organ in the parish church. Ross moved to Amsterdam to pursue a career playing and building organs.

melrose

Garden party

This year’s Melrose in Bloom garden party will be held in Priorwood Orchard on Sunday, July 3 (2.30-4.30pm). Tickets cost £8 and will be on sale at the gate, or from any Melrose in Bloom member.

Parish church

Sunday saw the first communion at Melrose during the vacancy. The electoral register has been approved and the foodbank is ongoing. Services on Sunday, June 19, are at 9.30am (Bowden), 10.45am (wreath-laying at Melrose) and 11am (kirkin’ of the Melrosian).

Trimontium

Coldingham was the second last school to undertake the Leaderfoot-Newstead Route March and museum tour in the run-down to the end of the term. This week sees preparation for the kitting-out of the Roman soldier at the Trimontium Stone on the Saturday morning of the Tour of Ceremonies. The Trimontium Walk took place again on Thursday of last week in sunshine. There’s usually something new to see – and last week it was the erection of electricity poles on the Leaderfoot railway embankment and beside the ‘Roman road” on the track on the south side of the fort leading down to teatime at Newstead Village Hall.

Concert

“Let us Garlands bring” – a quote from the song, “Who is Sylvia?” – was the title of a musical celebration of Shakespeare given by the Abbey Consort and orchestra in Holy Trinity Church on Sunday, June 12, conducted by James Letham, with Chris Achenbach at the keyboard. Composers featured were Vaughan Williams, George Shearing (pianist), Mendelssohn, Rutter and Bernstein, whose excerpts from “West Side Story” formed the finale.

Festival rideout

Lorries and horse boxes should park in Annay Road, approaching from the Newstead end.

Cancer group

The latest Scottish Borders Prostate Cancer Support Group monthly meeting was held at the Macmillan Centre, Borders General Hospital, on Wednesday, June 1. Guest speakers were Adam Gaines, director, and Mae Bell, information and advice co-ordinator, Prostate Scotland. Adam opened the meeting by outlining the history and achievements of the organisation which is run solely for the benefit of men and their carers. It is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom have personal experience or knowledge of prostate cancer. Adam emphasised the importance of early diagnosis of the disease. It is estimated that over the next 10 years there will be an increase in prostate cancer among Scottish men of around 35%. Mae said the organisation travels throughout Scotland, informing clinicians and public alike, about prostate cancer. A short video showing the benefits robotic surgery can provide over conventional surgery was shown. During the tea/coffee break, members had an opportunity to chat informally to Adam and Mae, and to ask further questions. The next meeting of the group will be on Wednesday, July 6, at the same venue at 7pm when the speaker is Alan McLaren, prostate cancer specialist nurse at Borders General Hospital. New members and carers are always welcome.

morebattle

Queen’s birthday

Villagers came out in force to enjoy the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations garden party at the Templehall Hotel on Sunday which had been decorated with Union Jack bunting, balloons and table cloths. A hog roast was served, a live band entertained, with bouncy castle, face-painting and games for the children held in the neighbouring village hall. Fancy dress was optional and prizes were presented. During the singing of ‘Happy Birthday’, a Union Jack-themed birthday cake with 90 candles was blown out by Games Queens past and present – Helen Cessford, Denise Jackson, Emma Thomson, Kym Cessford and newly-elected Lucy Thomson. This was served along with tray bakes, shortbread etc. Robert Dick proposed a vote of thanks to the organising committee.

Coffee morning

Morebattle institute’s coffee morning was held on Saturday when £515 was raised. Gilbert Elliot, president, opened the event by paying tribute to Andrew Bell, who died during the year – he held the post of vice-chairman. Competition winners – trays, Gail Gibson; planter of plants, Janette Stenhouse; basket of vegetables, Linda Henderson; 50/50 draw, Sasha Jackson.

SWI

Members visited The Pirn, St Boswells, for their annual outing when 26 of them enjoyed a meal. Mary Pringle, president, said grace. Janet Fleming was the lucky winner of her meal for free. Catherine Mabon gave an appreciative vote of thanks to Mary for organising the evening and to The Pirn for its hospitality.

Southdean

Open gardens

Gardens opening, on Sunday, June 26 –from 2-6pm, starting at Southdean Hall.

Traquair

Service

The next service in Traquair Kirk will be on Sunday, July 3, at 10.30am.

Walkerburn

Service

The Walkerburn festival kirkin’ service will be held on Sunday, June 26.

westruther

Hog roast

The annual hog roast in aid of the village hall will be held at the premises on Saturday, June 18, at 6pm. Tickets from Angela (01578 740633) or Grace (07779 908159).

Yarrowford

SWI

The May meeting featured a demonstration of cake decoration by Shona Morrison who stepped in to demonstrate at the last minute, which was much appreciated. Members learnt some new techniques and very much enjoyed the demonstration. Competitions – posy of spring flowers – 1, Linda Bradshaw; 2, Hannah Young; photograph of a bird – 1, Sandra Ballantyne; 2, Linda Bradshaw. The raffle was won by Ena Mitchell. This month’s meeting featured an evening outing to the Kingsknowes Hotel in Galashiels.

yetholm

Festival Week

Festival Week continues with a village lunch at noon on Thursday, June 16, in the Wauchope Hall, and bingo later in the day at 7pm at the same venue. Bowling and ladies’ darts feature on Friday night (June 17), and Saturday, June 18, sees the duck race and family afternoon with barbecue on Kirk Yetholm green. Festival festivities end that evening with a dance in the Wauchope Hall (7.30pm) – tickets are available at the village shop.

Choir

Choir members continue to gather in the Youth Hall on Wednesday mornings, busy rehearsing for a concert in Norham Church on Sunday, June 26, at 7.30pm. They will be accompanied by Yetholm Sinfonia.

Signs

New signs have been erected at the entrance to both villages in Yetholm colours of yellow and green. They welcome visitors to the ‘Gateway to the Cheviots’. Villagers are grateful to community councillors who took this project forward.

Playpark

A fence has been erected around the playpark on the playing field – and an appeal made to keep this a dog-free zone.

Barbecue

On Saturday, June 25, there will be a barbecue at the village hall and garden between 4-6pm. Everyone is welcome.

CADDONFOOT

Parish church

The Reverend Julie Woods, from Earlston Parish Church, conducted the service on Sunday following the local congregational review conducted by herself and the Reverend Samuel Siroky, of Ettrick and Yarrow, on behalf of Melrose and Peebles presbytery. Julie was accompanied by Earlston elder Tom Burnham, who led the Prayer of Approach and Confession. The Bible reading was read by Christine Dorward and music played by Margaret Blyth. Bible study during the summer months is being held in Caddonfoot Church. The trial opening of the church last week got off to a good start with a few visitors – anyone wishing to volunteer should contact Irene Bruce. The gardens at Yair House, open under Scotland’s Gardens Scheme last week, was a success in the sunshine with part of the proceeds going to the church. Deirdrie Thyne thanked members of the congregation who helped on the day. Congregational Board members meet in the church on Thursday, June 23, at 7pm.

darnick

Quiz

Darnick Village Trust last Friday realised, via a quiz, £441 for Parkinson’s UK – its latest fundraising efforts for villagers’ chosen charity. The winning team, ‘Pekajobach’, narrowly beat the ‘Darnick Dib Dabs’ as a result of a tie-break question, with ‘Friends United’ enjoying the edible booby prizes. The total includes sales of tablet made by a Darnick resident and CDs provided by Kathy Stewart and sold at her String Jam Club concert on Saturday night. A huge contribution to the total was from the quiz raffle, with a large number of prizes secured by Jenny Anderson, who made individual approaches to Melrose businesses and collected the items for the trust. Velvet Hall Alpacas of Innerleithen donated a guided family trek for auction, and Flora Colton of Selkirk placed the winning bid.

earlston

Tea party

A strawberry tea party in aid of those suffering from breast cancer will be held on Saturday, June 18, at Earlston Rugby Club from 2pm.

Parish church

The service on Sunday, June 19, starts at 10.15am. Next Sunday, June 26, sees the congregational walk to Anne and Gerry’s at West Lodge, Carolside, after the service.

ECCLES

School memories

Do you have memories of being at Eccles Leitholm School? On Friday, June 24, between 10.30am and noon, staff and pupils will welcome those who have memories to share. There will be refreshments and biscuits available. This is also an opportunity to have a look around the school and see some of the resources the children use to help them learn.

Eckford

Strawberry fair

The latest strawberry fair realised in excess of £800 for village hall funds. A new twist was introduced with a ‘Play Your Cards Right’ game hosted by Harry Grant from Sprouston. The produce table, plants, books and craft stalls were also well received.

edgerston

SWI

The June meeting took the form of an outing on the Borders Railway to Newtongrange to visit the National Mining Museum. The guide had been a miner at the Lady Victoria Coal Mine for 30 years and had a fund of information at his command which he shared enthusiastically. The artefacts and explanatory boards in the museum were also enlightening to those with little knowledge of mining techniques or the extensive areas of coal reserves in Scotland. The next meeting is on September 14 at 2pm when Nicky Kershaw will speak on Care in the Community and Elder Voice.

ednam

Queen’s birthday

Villagers celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday on Sunday at the village hall with an afternoon tea party and sports. The weather managed to hold out, allowing children to have their races. There was also a bake-off competition, judged by Pat Dagg from Stitchill. Victoria Sponge – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, Agnes Allan; 3, Anne Oliver. Tray Bake – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, John Nairn. Decorated Teacake – 1, Marion Nairn; 2, Agnes Allan; 3, Maria Oliver. Kids’ Cupcake – 1, Ben Nairn; 2, Zoe Nairn. Decorated Biscuit – 1, Ben Nairn; 2, Gregor Oliver; 3, Zoe Nairn; 4, Emily Oliver; 5, Finlay Oliver.

ettrickbridge

SWI

Members came away from Gardening Scotland, held at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh, with a second in the SWI national window box competition with their red, white and blue tribute to the Queen’s 90th birthday, together with a highly commended chutney in the produce section. This was followed by last Wednesday’s outing to Born in the Borders at Lanton. The evening began with a tour of the brewery, beer tasting in the bottle shop, the opportunity to browse and buy from the gift shop, followed by supper in the brewery restaurant. The next meeting on Wednesday, September 14 – an open night when Alice Mackay and Lucy Black, of Beau Beautique, will give a beauty demonstration.

FOUNTAINHALL

SWI

For the last meeting of this session, members enjoyed a meal at the Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, following a visit to Caddon Design at Clovenfords. Competition results from the May meeting – three ginger snaps – 1, Agnes Mathison; 2, Dianne Wilson; picture frame – 1, Janice Currie; 2, Margaret Marshall. Members next meet again in the village hall at 7.30pm on Wednesday, September 21.

gALASHIELS

St Peter’s Church

Thursday, June 16 – 10am, communion in the church hall, followed by study group and soup lunch. Saturday, June 18 – 12.30pm, Fair Trade coffee morning and bake sale; Sunday, June 19 – 8.30am, holy communion; 9.30am, Sunday Squad, followed by juice and toast; 10.30am, sung eucharist, followed by coffee and chat. Monday, June 20 –10am, communion at Oakwood Park. Tuesday, June 21 – 3pm, afternoon tea service. Thursday, June 23 – church closed all day for EU referendum voting.

glendouglas

SWI

The ‘Evening with the Callant’ is to take place on Wednesday, June 22 (7.30pm). Tickets for the event are £2.50 (or one can pay at the door). Supper is provided and all are welcome to attend.

hawick

Wilton Dean SWI

President Joyce Tinlin welcomed members and visitors to the open night. The gathering was entertained by singers Quintessence, who were then was joined by the Wilton Dean choir. Competition – favourite tea plate – 1, Susie Finlayson; 2, Lynn Walker. Visitors’ competition – 1, Jean Welsh (Burnfoot SWI). Various raffle prizes were won. The next meeting is on Tuesday, June 21, which is the outing – meet at the Haugh at 5.45pm. Contact Lesley for supper details.

Hownam

Coffee morning

A coffee morning in aid of The Moonwalk 2016 and Cheviot Churches will take place in the village hall on Saturday, June 18, from 10am.

Towford SWI

Results from the whist held in Hownam Hall on May 24 – ladies – 1, Jean Rae; 2, Joan Kyle; 3, Betty Fleming; 4, Mary Tait; booby, Anne Redpath; longest sitter, Rose Cameron; gents – 1, Pat Young; 2, Jean McNulty; 3, Angus Cameron; 4, Christine Ballantyne; booby, Peter Hedley; longest sitter, Kenny Tait; sweep – 1 and 2, Rory Buchanan; 3, Dot Lee. On June 7, the summer night out was to Born in the Borders – a tour of the brewery was followed by beer tasting and retail therapy. Supper was served in the restaurant. The annual Roxburghshire Federation golf competition was held on a beautiful afternoon on June 9 at Minto Golf Club. Due to other club commitments, only five players took part, with Mary Towers and Maria Smail being the successful pair to go on to represent the federation at the national finals on August 29 at Fortrose and Rosemarkie. Trish Kirkpatrick organised the afternoon.

innerleithen

Church

Sunday, June 19 – breakfast, 8.30am; song and a story, 9am; service, 10.30am.

Coffee morning

The piping society’s coffee morning will take place on Saturday, June 18, in the Vale Club from 10am-noon.

Games committee

The next meeting of St Ronan’s Border Games committee will take place on Thursday, June 23, at 7pm in the Vale Club.

Football Fives

Entries for the Games Week Football Fives tournament (July 9) are being accepted. To enter, contact Steven Notman on 07792 092118.

Overseas guests

Every year St Ronan’s Border Games Committee tries to accommodate visitors from overseas who are staying in the town during Games Week

Turn to page 52

From page 51

as guests at the Cleikum Ceremonies. This year’s ceremonies will take place on Friday, July 15, and applications for overseas guest invitations are now being accepted by email – stronansgames@googlemail.com.

Social

St Ronan’s Games Senior Citizens’ Social is open to all retired folks in the district. It will be held on Thursday, July 7, in the Memorial Hall with doors open at 7pm. Tickets are free of charge and can now be collected from the Thrift Shop. Entertainment will be provided by Bill Harvey and Stuart Henry, with dancing to Graham Halliday. A supper will be provided and a bar is available.

kelso

Bridge club

June 5 – Kelso Congress (57 pairs entered this year) – 1, Robert Francombe and George Graham; 2, Janet Unsworth and Catherine Hepburn; 3, Rita Chester and Rita Stockdale. Swiss teams – 1, Mary Grant, Andrew Grant, Rita Chester, Rita Stockdale; 2 (equal), Alistair Rae, Maurice Franceschi, Catriona Gardiner, Elizabeth Peckham, and Robin Sharp, Jan Sharp, Alistair Small, Sheila Small. June 8 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, Rena Stewart and Helenor Pratt; 2, John and Marian Miller; 3, Val Johnstone and Chris Anthony; E/W – 1, Sheena McPherson and Sheila Urquhart; 2, Ian and Eliz Ross; 3, Brian Saywood and Ken Ross. June 9 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, Michael Horwood and Alison Ireland; 2, Rena Stewart and Maureen Weightman; 3, Brian Saywood and Miles Browne; E/W – 1, Helenor Pratt and Pauline Smart; 2, Richard Oates and Sheena West; 3, Mary and Nigel Lindsay.

Royal celebration

A royal celebration will be held on Sunday, June 26, at Kelso North Church. A Royal Tea Party in the church hall runs from 3.30-5.30pm. There will be a children’s fancy dress and cake competition. This will be followed by a Royal Songs of Praise at 6.30pm. Tickets for the party are available at the door – £5 per adult, with children free. Proceeds from the party and retiring collection will go towards a defibrillator. This event is being organised by the south-east Scotland branch of the Order of St John.

Stitchers

Kelso Stitchers meet on Tuesday, June 28, at 7pm in Abbey Row Centre. Sally Scott-Aiton will be giving a talk entitled ‘Classic embroidery in cross stitch – a Borders journey’. Members should bring their mugs. For further information, contact Rineke Sangster on 01573 229414.

langholm

Colours

As usual, the Derby was watched with great interest on TV in the town, because the colours of the Common Riding, as is tradition, come from the winning owner, and this year are green and red. The winner of the Investec Derby at Epsom was Harzand, owned and bred by the Aga Khan, and trained in Ireland by Dermot Weld and ridden by Pat Smullen at odds of 13-2. This was the fifth occasion the Aga Khan had owned the winner, the last time being Sinndar in 2000.

Classic cars

Cheam Probus Club member Mike Baker, along with fellow Alvis owner club members David and Stewart Little, attracted great interest when they had a pit stop at the Eskdale Hotel, home to the local Probus Club, on their way to the Shetland Classic Motor Show via Aberdeen and the Northlink ferry. These cars have toured America, east and west coasts, Australia, Europe and Scandinavia.

Sponsored cycle

Local minister Scott McCarthy has completed a sponsored cycle challenge from Barnsley to Amsterdam to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, and at present he has reached more than £2,000. He was cycling for Langholm Legion FC and was one of around 300 football fans who took up the challenge, and they were joined by former England internationals Viv Anderson and Terry Butcher, along with former Welsh international Nathan Blake. The group have so far raised around £400,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. They started from Barnsley FC and cycled over 70 miles to Craven Park, home of rugby league side Hull Kingston Rovers. The group took the overnight ferry from Hull, arriving on the Saturday morning in Rotterdam. They then arrived at Amsterdam Arena late Saturday afternoon. Scott’s time for both legs of the 147-mile trip was 10 hours, 27 minutes and 27 seconds. During his time in Amsterdam, he met Ross Luescher – born and brought up in Eskdale, and who often played the organ in the parish church. Ross moved to Amsterdam to pursue a career playing and building organs.

melrose

Garden party

This year’s Melrose in Bloom garden party will be held in Priorwood Orchard on Sunday, July 3 (2.30-4.30pm). Tickets cost £8 and will be on sale at the gate, or from any Melrose in Bloom member.

Parish church

Sunday saw the first communion at Melrose during the vacancy. The electoral register has been approved and the foodbank is ongoing. Services on Sunday, June 19, are at 9.30am (Bowden), 10.45am (wreath-laying at Melrose) and 11am (kirkin’ of the Melrosian).

Trimontium

Coldingham was the second last school to undertake the Leaderfoot-Newstead Route March and museum tour in the run-down to the end of the term. This week sees preparation for the kitting-out of the Roman soldier at the Trimontium Stone on the Saturday morning of the Tour of Ceremonies. The Trimontium Walk took place again on Thursday of last week in sunshine. There’s usually something new to see – and last week it was the erection of electricity poles on the Leaderfoot railway embankment and beside the ‘Roman road” on the track on the south side of the fort leading down to teatime at Newstead Village Hall.

Concert

“Let us Garlands bring” – a quote from the song, “Who is Sylvia?” – was the title of a musical celebration of Shakespeare given by the Abbey Consort and orchestra in Holy Trinity Church on Sunday, June 12, conducted by James Letham, with Chris Achenbach at the keyboard. Composers featured were Vaughan Williams, George Shearing (pianist), Mendelssohn, Rutter and Bernstein, whose excerpts from “West Side Story” formed the finale.

Festival rideout

Lorries and horse boxes should park in Annay Road, approaching from the Newstead end.

Cancer group

The latest Scottish Borders Prostate Cancer Support Group monthly meeting was held at the Macmillan Centre, Borders General Hospital, on Wednesday, June 1. Guest speakers were Adam Gaines, director, and Mae Bell, information and advice co-ordinator, Prostate Scotland. Adam opened the meeting by outlining the history and achievements of the organisation which is run solely for the benefit of men and their carers. It is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom have personal experience or knowledge of prostate cancer. Adam emphasised the importance of early diagnosis of the disease. It is estimated that over the next 10 years there will be an increase in prostate cancer among Scottish men of around 35%. Mae said the organisation travels throughout Scotland, informing clinicians and public alike, about prostate cancer. A short video showing the benefits robotic surgery can provide over conventional surgery was shown. During the tea/coffee break, members had an opportunity to chat informally to Adam and Mae, and to ask further questions. The next meeting of the group will be on Wednesday, July 6, at the same venue at 7pm when the speaker is Alan McLaren, prostate cancer specialist nurse at Borders General Hospital. New members and carers are always welcome.

morebattle

Queen’s birthday

Villagers came out in force to enjoy the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations garden party at the Templehall Hotel on Sunday which had been decorated with Union Jack bunting, balloons and table cloths. A hog roast was served, a live band entertained, with bouncy castle, face-painting and games for the children held in the neighbouring village hall. Fancy dress was optional and prizes were presented. During the singing of ‘Happy Birthday’, a Union Jack-themed birthday cake with 90 candles was blown out by Games Queens past and present – Helen Cessford, Denise Jackson, Emma Thomson, Kym Cessford and newly-elected Lucy Thomson. This was served along with tray bakes, shortbread etc. Robert Dick proposed a vote of thanks to the organising committee.

Coffee morning

Morebattle institute’s coffee morning was held on Saturday when £515 was raised. Gilbert Elliot, president, opened the event by paying tribute to Andrew Bell, who died during the year – he held the post of vice-chairman. Competition winners – trays, Gail Gibson; planter of plants, Janette Stenhouse; basket of vegetables, Linda Henderson; 50/50 draw, Sasha Jackson.

SWI

Members visited The Pirn, St Boswells, for their annual outing when 26 of them enjoyed a meal. Mary Pringle, president, said grace. Janet Fleming was the lucky winner of her meal for free. Catherine Mabon gave an appreciative vote of thanks to Mary for organising the evening and to The Pirn for its hospitality.

Southdean

Open gardens

Gardens opening, on Sunday, June 26 –from 2-6pm, starting at Southdean Hall.

Traquair

Service

The next service in Traquair Kirk will be on Sunday, July 3, at 10.30am.

Walkerburn

Service

The Walkerburn festival kirkin’ service will be held on Sunday, June 26.

westruther

Hog roast

The annual hog roast in aid of the village hall will be held at the premises on Saturday, June 18, at 6pm. Tickets from Angela (01578 740633) or Grace (07779 908159).

Yarrowford

SWI

The May meeting featured a demonstration of cake decoration by Shona Morrison who stepped in to demonstrate at the last minute, which was much appreciated. Members learnt some new techniques and very much enjoyed the demonstration. Competitions – posy of spring flowers – 1, Linda Bradshaw; 2, Hannah Young; photograph of a bird – 1, Sandra Ballantyne; 2, Linda Bradshaw. The raffle was won by Ena Mitchell. This month’s meeting featured an evening outing to the Kingsknowes Hotel in Galashiels.

yetholm

Festival Week

Festival Week continues with a village lunch at noon on Thursday, June 16, in the Wauchope Hall, and bingo later in the day at 7pm at the same venue. Bowling and ladies’ darts feature on Friday night (June 17), and Saturday, June 18, sees the duck race and family afternoon with barbecue on Kirk Yetholm green. Festival festivities end that evening with a dance in the Wauchope Hall (7.30pm) – tickets are available at the village shop.

Choir

Choir members continue to gather in the Youth Hall on Wednesday mornings, busy rehearsing for a concert in Norham Church on Sunday, June 26, at 7.30pm. They will be accompanied by Yetholm Sinfonia.

Signs

New signs have been erected at the entrance to both villages in Yetholm colours of yellow and green. They welcome visitors to the ‘Gateway to the Cheviots’. Villagers are grateful to community councillors who took this project forward.

Playpark

A fence has been erected around the playpark on the playing field – and an appeal made to keep this a dog-free zone.

A woman who struck a female over the head with a bottle was ordered to pay her victim £500 compensation at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, pictured, on Monday.

Chelsea Hurst, 25, pleaded guilty to assaulting Lauren Brough and repeatedly striking her on the head with a bottle in Hawick’s Branxholme Road on August 2 last year.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said there appeared to have been an association between the women through an ex-partner and issues had arisen over a child.

He explained: “It was around 7pm and the accused started an argument and struck her three times on the head with a bottle. Drink had been involved.”

Mr Fraser said the victim sustained five cuts on her scalp and forehead which were two inches in length and all had to be cleaned and glued.

The court was told that Hurst, of Nelson Village, Cramlington, Northumberland, had been of good behaviour since December.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre said: “Compensation would be appropriate in this case.”

Clothing and homeware chain Matalan has recalled three batches of scented candles over fears that they could pose a safety risk.

The ‘3 Wick Mercury Candles’ in silver, red and gold have been removed from sale and customers have been advised not to use them.

A statement from the company read: “We have identified that the product does not meet our usual high standards regarding safety and quality.

“Please refrain from using the candle immediately and return it to your nearest Matalan store as soon as possible where our staff will be happy to give you a full refund. You do not need to have your receipt.

“If you bought a candle for someone else or know someone who has one then please let them know about this.”

The firm apologised to customers for the inconvenience and deemed the situation ‘unacceptable’.

They also advised customers that no other Matalan products were affected by this issue.

The Matalan customer services team can be contacted on this number: 0333 0044444.

INDECENT IMAGES

A Hawick man who was found to have more than 1,300 indecent images of children on his computer will be sentenced later this month.

Self-employed horse trainer and dog walker Andrew Bell, 42, pleaded guilty to the offence which happened at his Ruberslaw Road home between May, 2014, and July 29 last year.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court heard that 157 images were in the most serious category, A, involving penetrative sex.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said officers discovered 116 category B images which involved non-penetrative sexual activity and 1,053 indecent images from category C.

Mr Fraser explained police received information that someone at that address had been accessing indecent images from the internet and the property was searched under warrant on July 31, 2015.

Bell admitted he had typed “pre-teen” into the search engine when accessing images, but more often it was “teen”.

Mr Fraser said: “He told police this happened often at night after drinking or smoking cannabis when his judgement was not at its best.”

Sentence was deferred until June 27 when Sheriff Peter Paterson, who heard the original narration, will be available. Bell’s name was placed on the sex offenders’ register.

REMANDED IN CUSTODY

A Galashiels man has been remanded in custody after being accused of carrying out an assault.

Paul Reynolds, 21, also faces a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour.

He appeared in private at Jedburgh Sheriff Court where he made no plea or declaration and his case was continued for further examination.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre refused a motion for bail.

Reynolds is expected to appear in court again next Tuesday.

BENEFITS CHARGE

Brenda Leddy has been accused of obtaining £18,041.48 in benefits over a 10-year period to which she was not entitled.

Leddy, 79, of Stichill, denies having earnings from a business which she had an interest in while receiving benefits.

The offence is alleged to have been committed between June 2005 and April 2015.

A trial date was set for August 23, with an intermediate hearing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on July 25.

HOSPITAL DISTURBANCE

A Galashiels woman has admitted causing a disturbance in the casualty department at Borders General Hospital.

Selkirk Sheriff Court was told that Sylvia Connelly, 49, of Balmoral Road, was shouting and swearing, as well as being aggressive to staff and preventing them from going about their normal duties.

She had been taken to the hospital at 10.40am on Saturday, March 26, after being found unwell, but refused to stay in her cubicle.

Connelly was finally arrested at 11.45am by police officers who she also swore at.

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said his client had been taken to hospital against her own will and did not want to remain there.

He added that she could not get any attention, but admitted her behaviour was unacceptable.

Connelly pleaded guilty to a charge of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner.

But a not-guilty plea to being drunk and incapable in Balmoral Road, Galashiels, on March 26 was accepted by the Crown.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre said: “Misbehaviour at the hospital is a serious matter.”

He deferred sentence until Monday, July 4, for background reports.

HOTEL BOARD TRIAL DATE

A Galashiels man accused of obtaining more than £3,000 hotel board without paying will stand trial at Selkirk Sheriff Court in August.

William Moffat, 48, of Abbotsford Road, is charged with obtaining £3,175 board and lodgings at The Lodge, Carfraemill, between September 7 and October 22 last year without paying or intending to pay.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and a trial date was set for August 18. An intermediate hearing will take place on July 4.

HARE HUNT ALLEGATION

Three men have been accused of deliberately hunting a brown hare with three dogs.

Stoke-on-Trent pair Jason Ellis, 27, and Anthony Bassford, 31, along with John Wilson from Bedlington, Northumberland, all deny the offence which is alleged to have happened at Killpallet Hill, near Longformacus, Berwickshire, on April 6.

A trial date has been fixed for July 14, with a further intermediate hearing planned for June 27.

DRIVER DISQUALIFIED

A motorist has admitted a charge of drink-driving in Jedburgh.

Mark Hyland, 50, pleaded guilty to driving with a breath/alcohol count of 95 microgrammes – the legal limit being 22 – in Oxnam Road on March 14.

But Hyland, of Easter Langside Drive, Dalkeith, denies a detail of his previous convictions and a proof has been fixed for July 25.

An interim driving ban has been put in place.

SHOPLIFTERS FACING JAIL

A man and a woman from Galashiels who walked out of a Kelso supermarket with a trolley packed with goods without paying have been warned they face the prospect of a custodial sentence.

Kirsty Ritchie, 30, of St Andrew Street, and David Jeffrey, 36, of Laidlaw Court, had pre-planned the theft at Sainsbury’s on January 13.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court was told the couple had been speaking beforehand about going to the store to fill a trolley full of items and leave without paying.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said that was exactly what they did, filling the trolley with bedding, flowers and other goods, adding: “They set off a security alarm on leaving the store, but that did not alert staff.”

However, police later received information about the incident from a member of the public and the store’s CCTV was checked.

Ritchie made a full admission to the police and estimated the goods in the trolley would have been to the value of around £300.

Sentence has been deferred until next month for background reports to be prepared.

ASSAULTED HUSBAND

Sentence has been deferred for good behaviour on an Innerleithen woman who assaulted her husband with a hairbrush.

Shauna Pirie, 48, pleaded guilty to punching and scratching Robert Pirie on the face, head and neck, as well as striking him on the head with the hairbrush to his injury.

The offence happened at the family home at Kirklands, Innerleithen, in April.

Sentence was deferred until December 12.

BACKGROUND REPORTS

A motorist refused to give two specimens of breath at a police station after being suspected of drink-driving.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court heard the offence happened seven months after Sean Coulter, 44, attempted to drive a car while under the influence of alcohol.

He pleaded guilty to the offence which happened on the A698 near Kelso on August 1 last year.

Coulter, who lives at Abbey Road in Coldstream, also admitted a charge of failing to give specimens of breath at Kelso police station on March 13 this year.

Coulter – who has another previous conviction for drink-driving in 2010 – had sentence deferred for background reports until Monday, July 11.

An interim disqualification from driving has been imposed.

HAD SEX WITH 14-YEAR-OLD

An Earlston accused who had intercourse with a 14-year-old girl in his car at a Borders beauty spot will be sentenced later this month.

Kieran Austin, who is 21, pleaded guilty to having under-age sex with the girl at Scott’s View in April, 2014. But a not guilty plea to an allegation of having under-age sex with the girl’s 13-year-old friend at his home at Fansloanend was accepted by the Crown.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court was told that Austin was 19 at the time of the offence.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said Austin befriended the two schoolgirls and they would be driven in his car to Edinburgh to visit fast-food outlets.

Defence lawyer Greg McDonnel accepted background reports were inevitable and said he would await sentencing before addressing the sheriff.

Austin will be sentenced on Monday, June 27, when Sheriff Peter Paterson, who heard the original narration, will be available.

Austin will be subject to notification for the sex offenders’ register – the length of which will be determined on that date.

MOTORIST IS BANNED

A computer programmer who was more than double the legal alcohol limit when his vehicle was stopped by police has been banned from the road for 12 months at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Officers on mobile patrol spotted the car belonging to Brian Potter, 57, outside the Templehall Hotel in Morebattle during an afternoon last month.

When the vehicle later passed them, Potter was pulled over and smelt strongly of alcohol.

Defence lawyer Maureen Sinclair said the offence was bad judgement on her client’s behalf.

Potter was put forward for the drink-drivers’ rehabilitation course which gives him a 25% discount on the length of the disqualification if he passes at his own expense.

Potter, of Venchen Farm Cottages, Kelso, was also fined £400.

NFU Scotland will use the nation’s biggest agricultural showcase – The Royal Highland Show – to take up livestock producer concerns with major retailers.

The Union will challenge retailers on the market share Scottish farmers are receiving for beef cattle and also encourage supermarkets to quickly switchover to stocking shelves with new season Scotch lamb.

For more than 12 months now, less than half of the price shoppers pay for Scotch beef ends up going back to the farmgate. In addition, many livestock farmers in have expressed concern that changes in weight restrictions at abattoirs have had a negative impact on farm. These tighter specifications mean more farmers are receiving penalties when animals are not meeting the grade. As a result, the average price a farmer receives per finished animal has been falling.

Livestock Chairman Charlie Adam said: “The Union is challenging retailers and their processors to ensure that prices paid for cattle cover the costs of production. The vast majority of the costs involved in producing Scotch beef are fixed, and come from the cost involved in looking after the cow and rearing the calf.

“For those involved in finishing cattle, cutting the specified weights required at abattoirs must not be used as an opportunity to cut prices to farmers by the back door. We understand that it is retailers who are pushing for lighter carcases which in turn is increasing penalties for heavier animals and that is something we will be keen to discuss.

“There remains a need for retailers to ensure that the majority of the money that consumers spend on quality Scotch beef actually makes it back to those most involved in producing the product. I believe shoppers would be astonished to learn that less than half the retail price for beef goes back to farmers.”

An Innerleithen man who caused a disturbance in the town’s health centre after being refused medication has been given a home curfew for the next 11 months.

William Byers, 39, pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner by shouting and swearing at St Ronan’s Medical Centre on November 26.

At Jedburgh Sheriff Court, a restriction-of-liberty order was imposed, keeping him within his Horsburgh Street home between the hours of 7pm and 7am.

The hearing was told Byers had drug addiction issues and on the day of the offence was seeking medication for epilepsy. When his request was declined by a doctor, he went to the reception counter and demanded another appointment.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said that when Byers was told it would not be until the following day, matters became heated and Byers started shouting and swearing.

Byers’ lawyer said her client suffered from significant mental health problems and was on a methadone programme. She added that he was a full-time carer for his father.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre told Byers he had an extensive record, but accepted there was no violence involved in the crime.

WROTE HIS VEHICLE OFF

A motorist who skidded on ice and wrote off his vehicle during a drive to the Borders has been banned from the road for six months.

For Jamie Brechin, 21, of Barn Park, Edinburgh, was uninsured. He pleaded guilty to a total of four motoring offences, committed on the B6357 Bonchester Bridge to Jedburgh road on March 3.

In addition to the ban, he received fines totalling £433 after admitting having no insurance, no MoT, driving with no supervised driver while being a provisional licence holder and having no L plates.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser told Jedburgh Sheriff Court: “The accused picked up a friend in Edinburgh late at night and they went for a run to the Borders. It ended up a number of people in the car and they went through Galashiels and onto Carlisle.

“The accused was a bit sleepy and stopped on three occasions for a sleep.

“They had been to Carlisle and they came back up the road and were in the Newcastleton area about 6am. The vehicle went out of control and struck a bridge, possibly due to ice. The vehicle had to be abandoned.”

The fiscal added: “It transpired that the accused had been driving while a provisional licence holder, but no one in the car was entitled to supervise.”

Defence lawyer Ross Dow admitted: “He took a chance. He had bought the car for £125 and decided to drive down to the Borders. But he could not negotiate a corner and skidded on ice, hitting the side of the bridge.”

For the insurance offence alone, Brechin was fined £200 and banned from driving for six months.

ROBERTON MAN FACES TRIAL

A Roberton man has appeared from custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court accused of lewd and libidinous practices towards two males under 16 years of age.

David Wilson, 45, from Roberton, pleaded not guilty to two charges.

The historical allegations are said to be connected to offences committed in the Hawick area.

A trial date has been fixed for August 9 at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, with an intermediate hearing on July 25.

The success of the Borders Railway is the subject of a national conference this weekend.

The event in Newtongrange, Midlothian is looking to share the story of how the line returned, as politicians, railway authors and other industry figures gather and relive the process.

“The Borders reopening has exceeded all expectations, so naturally there’s interest from other parts of the country from people wanting to share that success” said Allison Cosgrove, conference organiser, with the campaign group Railfuture Scotland.

“The whole area is beginning to benefit from this project, with a hugely positive impact on local tourism. We’ll be telling the story from the point of view of campaigners and politicians, as well as looking at the practical challenges of rebuilding the railway.”

Speakers at the event will include local author David Spaven, the son of a railwayman, who will talk about the Borders Railway closure and the politics of it re-opening, and councillor David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Council, who will describe the impact of the opening on the local economy.

Allison Cosgrove added: “Another guest speaker is Dr Anne Glen who is an author and engineer who has very detailed photographic evidence of the engineering challenges of rebuilding a track that’s been partly built on, and where major roads had to be realigned”

The conference will be held at the National Mining Museum Scotland, Newtongrange, just a short walk from Newtongrange station.

“It’s appropriate that we’ve chosen a venue on the reopened line. It’s one of a collection of small towns in a forgotten area of Scotland which have been regenerated and re-invigorated. Railways are now being talked about in Scotland, thanks to the success of the longest rail reopening for a hundred years”

The conference is on Saturday, June 18, with registration at 10am.

For further details about the conference and how to reserve a place, email borders2016@railfuture.org.uk.

She has been named a top choclatier, and recreated the Flying Scotsman in chocolate, and now Ruth Hinks is helping fight cancer with her brownie recipes.

Ruth, the UK’s first female chocolate master Ruth, who runs Cocoa Black in Peebles, is encouraging home bakers to make brownies in aid of Marie Curie.

Ruth said she was asked to take part in Marie Curie’s Blooming Great Tea Party, “and I just said yes! I’ve done some work with MacMillan before, but never Marie Curie, so I thought this would be great.

“Last year, I think there were 70 retailers involved, and this year there are more than 240, so it’s really gone gangbusters!”

Ruth has developed a recipe for “the most indulgent chocolate brownies you’ll ever taste”, which is now available to download from.franke.co.uk/charity in return for a donation to Marie Curie.

Of her creation, she says: “I just think it needs to be a good old fashioned chocolate brownie.

“It has to have all three kinds of chocolate, real butter, and I want it to be really dark and luxurious, almost decadent.”

Keen home bakers are being urged to donate, download and bake this month to help raise vital funds for Marie Curie, in association with sink and tap specialists Franke.

After donating, there is a chance for anyone to win a prize by uploading a photo of themselves with an inspirational message for Marie Curie, to the Franke Facebook page at Facebook.com/FrankeUK or on Twitter @FrankeUK using the hashtag #BloomingGreat.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed that she is preparing legislation to enable the Scottish Parliament to hold a second referendum on Scottish independence.

While the UK as a whole voted to leave the European Union, Scots overwhelmingly opted to remain, with Ms Sturgeon declaring the result meant there had been a “significant and material change in the circumstances in which Scotland voted against independence” in 2014.

She said: “As things stand, Scotland faces the prospect of being taken out of the EU against our will. I regard that as democratically unacceptable.”

Britain voted to leave the EU by 52 per cent to 48 per cent, with Scotland voting by 62 per cent to 38 per cent in favour of Remain.

The First Minister said it is now “highly likely” that there will another vote on Scotland’s place in the UK in the next two years.

Speaking at her official residence, Bute House in Edinburgh, she said: “I intend to take all possible steps and explore all possible options to give effect to how people in Scotland voted - in other words to secure our continuing place in the EU, and in the single market in particular.”

The SNP manifesto for May’s Holyrood elections said the Scottish Parliament “should have the right to hold another referendum if there is a significant and material change in the circumstances that prevailed in 2014, such as Scotland being taken out of the EU against our will”.

Ms Sturgeon said: “It is, therefore, a statement of the obvious that a second referendum must be on the table, and it is on the table.”

All 32 local authority areas north of the border returned a majority for Remain in the EU referendum.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Unfortunately, of course, yesterday’s result in Scotland was not echoed across the whole of the United Kingdom. The UK-wide vote to leave the EU is one that I deeply regret.

“The vote across England and Wales was a rejection of the EU and it was a sign of divergence between Scotland and large parts of the rest of the UK and how we see our place in the rest of the world.”

Selkirk could be billed as the gateway to a new Borders National Park if a bid by the Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland comes to fruition.

That, at least, is the claim being made by Jane Bower, vice-chairperson of the association and a Newcastleton area resident, and she wrote to Selkirk Community Council asking for its support.

Her plea was read out by chairman Alistair Patullo at Monday night’s meeting.

The campaign to make a vast swathe of the Borders – taking in Newcastleton to the south and skirting the towns of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels, but including Melrose, Newtown St Boswells, Kelso and Jedburgh – was launched last year, but it has sparked a polarising debate.

Selkirkshire councillor Michelle Ballantyne made her feelings clear on it on Monday.

She said: “I wouldn’t support it. It would cause way too many problems.

“National parks have all sorts of costs, and there are huge connotations for local councils. There are restrictions on planning and development.

“I don’t think we need it, and I can’t see what benefit it would be. I don’t think becoming a national park is a way to improve the Borders.

“It’s just not practical or appropriate. If you had it, it wouldn’t be long before you wished you hadn’t.”

However, Denholm community councillor Rob Armstrong remains a strong supporter of the campaign.

He said: “There is now incredible support for national park status. The association is at scoping stage, holding talks at community councils, and has created a dedicated website so people can find out

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more about a proposed park.

“There are huge benefits to the Borders area if it were granted National Park status, the main ones being a badly-needed boost to the economy via increased tourism to the Borders and increased investment by companies wanting to invest in the area due to its recognition as an area of outstanding beauty.

“Studies of other parks have proved this.

“Also, badly-needed protection will be given to an extremely beautiful area heavily reliant on tourism.

“This would ensure sympathetic development practices, using more indigenous materials and thoughtful design to new developments.

“In short, a National Park status would be about preservation and growth.”

For more information, visit www.borders-national-park.scot

A Borders B&B once owned by the kings of Scotland has proved its still has the royal touch after being presented with a four star award from VisitScotland.

Traquair House near Innerleithen has this week been awarded the Four Star Gold Quality Assurance (QA) Award from VisitScotland.

Often described as Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, Traquair received the award in recognition of its high standards from VisitScotland chief executive Malcolm Roughead, who made a special stop-off as part of a ‘Listening Tour’ in the Borders to meet with tourism businesses in the region.

Accepting the award was Catherine Maxwell-Stuart, 21st Lady of Traquair, who lives with her family in the ancestral home which was gifted to the 1st Laird of Traquair, by the Earl of Buchan way back in 1491.

Catherine said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the Four Star Gold Award from VisitScotland for our Bed and Breakfast accommodation.

“Adding this award to our Five Star Visitor Attraction status demonstrates the high standards and commitment we offer our visitors to ensure their experience is the very best.

“The B&B accommodation at Traquair House offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience a piece of living history.”

The Four Star Gold B&B grading recognises the high standards of Traquair House’s visitor accommodationin its latest grading. The ‘gold’ part of the QA award acknowledges the continuing attainment of outstanding customer service and hospitality.

Traquair House, which dates back to 1107 and is still lived in by the descendants of the Maxwell Stuart family, has also been graded a Five Star Visitor Attraction in the VisitScotland Visitor Attraction Scheme.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, said while on his visit: “It is fantastic to get the opportunity to meet face to face with businesses like Traquair House, an excellent example of a business capitalising on its unique heritage and ancestry to develop a visitor experience of the highest quality in the region.

“Tourism is at the heart of economic success in the Scottish Borders – creating jobs and supporting communities.

“The industry currently supports over 3,200 jobs in the area and generates £71 million in revenue.

“The aim of today’s tour is to meet with industry leaders and discuss how we can continue to capitalise on the wealth of opportunities in the region and maximise the visitor economy.”

A former police officer has won a legal battle against his ex-bosses to have his shotguns and firearms certificates returned.

Police Scotland told Brian Lile, a serving officer at the time, that he could not be permitted to possess a firearm “without danger to the public safety or to the peace” after he was accused of being involved in a road-rage incident.

The 50-year-old’s gun certificates were revoked in July 2014 because he had been charged with being involved in the alleged roadside incident in Walkerburn three months previously.

Lile, also working as a deerstalker, retired after 30 years’ service with the police in November of that year.

The other man involved in the incident in Galashiels Road in Walkerburn accepted a warning letter from the procurator fiscal.

Lile, on the other hand, maintained his innocence and was eventually found not guilty at Selkirk Sheriff Court in April last year.

However, Lile said his polite requests for information about the return of his shotguns met with “an uninformative and curt” response from his former colleagues the police’s firearms and licensing section.

That prompted him to lodge an action against Police Scotland’s chief constable, Phil Gormley, at Jedburgh Sheriff Court calling for the force’s decision to be overturned.

Following several hearings, Sheriff Valeria Johnston ruled in his favour and ordered that his certificates and shotguns should be returned.

She stated:”I conclude that there is no evidence that he cannot be permitted to possess firearms or shotguns without danger to the public safety or to the peace.”

Lile, of Blainslie, near Lauder, runs a business called Sika Events and has been involved in deer management at several estates throughout Scotland and England to supplement his police pension.

However, he has had to pass on work to others when it required having a shotgun or firearms certificates, he told the court.

The school year ended with a special celebration at one Borders primary school as pupils enjoyed a new outdoors facility.

Heriot Primary School pupils took part enthusiastically in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new outdoor classroom on Friday, June 24.

Parents, staff and local councillors like John Mitchell were also present, partaking of tea, coffee and cakes.

Also on hand was Gareth Shields, community investment manager for energy firm SSE.

SSE have helped fund the project, working with the school’s parent council, with £1,500, from the fund associated with their nearby Toddleburn wind farm.

The parent council have also been contributing to the costs of the structure, which will also function as a shelter for pupils while they are on their breaks, with fundraising events including coffee mornings, a duck race and a Christmas Fayre.

Head teacher Susan Andersonsaid the classroom was “A fabulous additions to the school.

“This is really great because it will allow the children to engage in of their messier artwork in this space.

“It’s also, because of its position, good for birdwatching and bug hunting, and another thing we’re able to do is bring on seedlings in there before planting them in our garden.”

She summed up: “It’s great that these things can be added to and brought into our curriculum.”

NHS Borders has said it has a suitable recruitment strategy in place – despite the latest figures showing the rise of nurses over 55 years old.

According to statistics released by ISD Scotland (the official NHS database) just 13.97% of the NHS Borders nursing and midwifery workforce were aged 55 or over. However, that rose to 18.12 per cent in 2015, and 19.48 per cent this year – which means almost a fifth of nurses and midwives on NHS Borders’ books will be looking to retire at some point within the next decade, which will leave a massive gap to fill at a time where there are already issues with recruitment.

Scottish Conservative South of Scotland MSP Rachael Hamilton said: “The NHS is fortunate to have so many nurses approaching the end of the career who are prepared to keep going.

“But while their experience and commitment is valuable, it won’t be long before they retire, and that’s going to leave a sizeable gap. In the Borders, we are facing a situation where a fifth of the nursing and midwifery workforce will be looking to retire over the course of the next decade.

“That leaves a massive space to fill, and it’s something the Scottish Government needs to be getting on with as a matter of urgency.”

A spokesman for NHS Borders said: “NHS Borders has a proactive recruitment strategy based on predicting vacancies into the future.”

An elderly Ettrickbridge resident had a lucky escape after vigilant bank staff foiled two scammers.

Police have reported that on Tuesday, June 28, two men had carried out overpriced gardening work and persuaded their victim to drive to the bank to withdraw “significant funds” for payment.

However, bank staff became suspicious and no money changed hands, with the matter being reported to Police, who are investigating along with Trading Standards.

Police have stressed that they do not recommend engaging with any doorstep cold-callers selling goods or services.

Residents are also urged to look out for any vulnerable neighbours potentially being targeted by doorstep callers, and to report any suspicious vehicles or callers immediately by phoning 101 or 999 in an emergency.

For further information on how to spot rogue traders and advice on how to protect yourself, family and neighbours visit the Doorstep Crime and Bogus Callers page on the Police Scotland website.

Life sciences firm Arrayjet, which specialises in printing services used for medical screening, has secured a contract worth about £300,000 with a flagship biomedical research facility.

The Roslin-based company has joined forces with Griffith University’s pioneering Institute for Glycomics in Queensland, which works to develop “the next generation of drugs and vaccines to fight diseases of global impact” and focuses on the structure and function of sugars in biological systems. The deal will see Arrayjet provide “the most advanced instrumentation printing technology available” to print glycan arrays, which help scientists understand how complex sugar molecules on cell surfaces relate to particular biological functions.

Arrayjet said its involvement is saving the Australian bio-analytical facility “an enormous amount of time” and making it a world-leader in its field.

Iain McWilliam, chief executive of Arrayjet, said it was “delighted” to have been chosen to partner with the institute “at this exciting phase of their development”.

The two organisations are also collaborating to provide life-science companies throughout the Asia-Pacific with a consulting service providing microarray analytics for a range of diagnostic applications.

McWilliam added: “What’s more, we are building a solid customer base across the Asia Pacific Rim, and for an SME with its headquarters in Midlothian, Scotland, we are delighted with our international reach and impact.”

Chris Davis, general manager at the Institute for Glycomics, said: “As an established world-leader in glycomics translational research, we are delighted to work with Arrayjet to further build translational capacity in our state-of-the-art glyco-bioanalytical facility.”

Among recent contract wins for Arrayjet are a £350,000 order from Chinese government-backed life sciences company CapitalBio that makes detection kits for conditions such as infant deafness and Down’s syndrome, and a £150,000 contract with Swiss-based Philip Morris Products, a subsidiary of tobacco giant Philip Morris International.