This has been a memorable year. Nationally the highlights being Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Also Great Britain hosting the Olympic Games. My wife and I represented the Lieutenancy in the magnificent Jubilee Pageant on the Thames and also at the National Jubilee Service in St Paul’s Cathedral.
Closer to home, our towns and villages were streaming with flags and bunting, with over 50 celebration events bringing together neighbours of all ages to celebrate and show gratitude to the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh for their 60 years of service to our country and commonwealth. In September, the Princess Royal represented the Queen at a very moving Jubilee thanksgiving service in Melrose, followed by a reception hosted by Scottish Borders Council.
The 2012 Olympic Games were remarkable with many volunteers from this part of Scotland involved. Our special congratulations must go to those that competed in the Olympics and Parlympics.
As a nation we owe much to our armed services, especially our own 1Scots, the Royal Regiment of Scotland and other servicemen from our area. We must thank those who give up so much of their time to help our young people grow into responsible citizens. Also we are indebted to those who do so much to help our elderly as well as the sick and frail.
At this festive time we must think of all those who for whatever reason are having misery and difficulties in their life.
My wife and I wish everyone in Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale a happy Christmas and New Year.