Three second half goals saw Gala Rovers defeat Division A leaders Newtown last night, and close the gap to just five points.

Mark Tokely opened the scoring for The Villagers in the first half but strikes from Stuart Noble, Jamie Collins and Des Sutherland - the latter’s 53rd goal of the season - secured the win for Rovers.

Gala have eight games in hand to make up the five point deficit on Newtown.

In Division B, Jordan Steele netted four times and Martin Gibson grabbed a double as Stow thumped Linton Hotspur 6-0.

Hawick Legion’s faint hopes of survival remain after they defeated Selkirk Victoria 2-0 at Philiphaugh.

Biggar remain top of Division C with a 2-1 win at Peebles Amateurs, while second-placed Gordon defeated Hawick Legion Rovers 4-2.

And St Boswells scored three goals in the last ten minutes to defeat Kelso Thistle 3-2.

It is all change at the top at Galashiels Burns Club following the annual general meeting staged in the Royal British Legion last night.

Keith Cowan has been elected club president replacing Alex Merry who has completed his two year tenure.

Keith - who has been vice-president for the past two years - said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be

elected president of this fantastic club.”

Robert Fairburn was appointed the new vice-president.

All other office bearers were unanimously re-elected by the committee.

Secretary - Russell Robertson; assistant secretary - David Sanderson; treasurer - Douglas Watt; auditor - William Watt.

Arrangements are now underway for next year’s Burns Supper which takes place on Friday, January 24,

in the Volunteer Hall, Galashiels.

Hawick Linden 33 Hawick Harlequins 28

RBS EAST DIVISION TWO

THIS top of the table clash at Mansfield Park had both sets of supporters in a crowd of around 300 biting their nails.

There was never more than five points in it until 60 minutes were on the clock as the lead constantly changed hands, the Quins ahead on four occasions and the Linden five.

Linden lost possession on receiving the kick off and Gavin Douglas dropped a goal to give the Quins an early lead. A Graham Colville run and kick ahead was chased by Greg Thomson who had outpaced the defence but the ball rolled into touch 10 yards from the line. However, this gave field position to the Linden from which they gained a penalty that Barry Sutherland slotted to level the scores.

The first try came from a lineout take by Shaun Fairbairn and a pop to Blaine Willison saw the big back row surge over. With the Linden in possession the ball shot back from a ruck and Quins were quickest to react and went blind. Neil Douglas broke free from his own half and had the pace to go the distance and draw the scores level again.

With the Quins caught offside, Sutherland kicked the resulting penalty but the Baker Street men hit straight back. Winning a ruck in the Linden 22, they went left and Graeme Lothian sliced through to touch down and Scott Peffers converted to put the Quins back ahead 15-11.

It was then the Royal Blues turn to respond. A penalty was kicked to touch and, following the lineout and hit up in midfield, play was switched left. With numbers up, Stuart Renwick threw a lovely miss pass that allowed Shaun Fairbairn to go over in the corner. Yet again the lead changed hands when the Linden were penalised at the breakdown just before the break and Peffers put over the penalty to give his side an 18-16 lead at half-time.

It was a nightmare start to the second half for the Quins as Greg Bouglas charged down a kick and, as he chased the ball as it neared the line, was held back and the referee ran under the posts to award a penalty try which Sutherland converted. Neither side seemed capable of holding a lead and the ding-dong nature on the scoreboard continued when Gavin Douglas’ delayed pass saw Lothian scamper over for his second try and Peffers’ conversion put the Quins 25-23 in front.

Unsurprisingly it was then the Linden’s turn to go ahead thanks to another Sutherland penalty. A storming run from Craig Mitchell took Linden deep into Quins territory and, when Craig Rogerson killed the ball he was yellow carded. Shortly after the Linden were awarded an easily kickable penalty but Sean Goodfellow took a quick tap and a couple of surges later Stuart Williams plunged over and Sutherland converted. For the first time in the game the lead was more than a converted try with the Linden 33-25 to the good.

With five minutes to go the Volunteer Park side had a great chance to seal matters but Nathan Murray couldn’t hold on to a difficult pass when he looked certain to score. The clock then moved into injury time as Scott Peffers kicked a penalty goal. The Quins had one last chance and desperately chased the game from the kick off but were penalised in their own 22. The easy penalty which would have denied the Quins a bonus point was hooked wide as the final whistle blew.

Once again, the Borders Elite Swimming Team (BEST) members have been punching above their weight at national level.

Competing in the Scottish Age Group Swimming Championships at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh last week, BEST were placed 10th from more than 60 teams, with a comparatively small group of swimmers.

In total, the squad, coached by Alex Jordan, picked up eight gold, seven silver and two bronze medals as well as one Scottish Age Group Record and four East District Age Group Records.

Individual tallies

Kirsty Armstrong, 13, Kelso ASC

5 gold, 1 bronze, 1 Scottish Age Group Record, 2 East District Age Group Record

Gold 13 years 100m butterfly, Scottish Age Group Record and East District Age Group Record

Gold 13 years 200m butterfly, East District Age Group Record

Gold 13 years 400m individual medley

Gold 13 years 200m IM

Gold 13 years 100m breaststroke

Bronze 200m freestyle

Lucy Hope, 16, Kelso ASC

3 gold, 2 silver, 2 East District Age Group Record

Gold 15/16 years 200m freestyle

Gold 15/16 years 100m freestyle

Gold 15/16 years 50m freestyle

Silver 15/16 years 200m backstroke, East District Age Group Record

Silver 15/16 years 100m backstroke, East District Age Group Record

Ryan Brown, 15, Kelso ASC

5 Silver, 1 Bronze

Silver 15 years 1500m freestyle

Silver 15 years 400m individual medley

Silver 15 years 200m butterfly

Silver 15 years 200m individual medley

Silver 15 years 100m butterfly

Bronze 15 years 200m backstroke

Achieving a considerable number of PB’s in individual events were:

Matthew Berlansky, 15, Gala ASC

Finlay Dewar, 13, Peebles ASC

Kathryn Swinney, 13, Peebles ASC

Gregor Swinney, 15, Peebles ASC

Rob Czajka, 15, Kelso ASC

Lizzie Clelland, 14, Kelso ASC

Catherine Soeder, 11, Kelso ASC

Charlie Lochhead, 14, Duns ASC

Danny Milton, 14, Duns ASC

Relay Teams

Various combinations including Kathryn Swinney, Emma Suddon, Lizzie Clelland, Kirsty Armstrong & Jenny Adams managed to score points in two relays

SATURDAY saw the 4th round of the Semi-Junior 7’s series being played at the Volunteer Park, Hawick, the home of Hawick Wanderers.

The hosts triumphed beating Jed Thistle in the final 53-0. This means that Hawick are back on top of the SJ7’s series table.

The format was 12 teams in four groups and the semi-finalists were Selkirk Youth club who lost to Hawick Wands 41-5 and Hawick Wands B who lost to Jed 17-19.

So it was very nearly and all Hawick Wands final.

Results

Pool 1: Selkirk YC 21 Duns 19; Selkirk YC 31 Hawick PSA 20; Duns 40 Hawick PSA 24.

Pool 2: Berwick Colts 14 Langholm Colts 22; Berwick Colts 12 Hawick Wands A 40; Langholm Colts 7 Hawick Wands A33.

Pool 3: Kelso Quins 22 Tynedale Colts 38; Kelso Quins 5 Hawick Wands B 24; Tynedale Colts 12 Hawick Wands B 49.

Pool 4: Jed-Thistle 37 Peebles Colts 7; Jed-Thistle 22 Gala Wands 14; Peebles Colts 10 Gala Wands 29.

Semi-Final: Selkirk YC 5 Hawick Wands A 41; Hawick Wands B 17 Jed Thistle 19.

Final: Hawick Wands A 53 Jed Thistle 0.

Kelso United 2

Leith Athletic 4

United found the loss of five team regulars too much as they went down to promotion-chasing Leith Athletic, writes George Riley.

The home side found themselves three down at half-time but gave a much better display after the break with goals from Garry Mabon and Des Burnett.

Manager Prof Blaikie said: “Leith are a decent team and it took us a while to come to terms with so many changes, but we played much better in the second half and had them under pressure for a while later in the game.”

The visitors started brightly and United keeper Scott Dowie had to move swiftly to save a Jason Stevens header at his near post.

Kelso retaliated when Garry Mabon sent Calum McClure away on the right wing. The teenager cut inside the full back and fired a shot which Athletic keeper Iain Gordon saved with his legs.

Leith went ahead on the quarter-hour mark when Stevens outpaced Damien McNulty to score.

Athletic went further ahead in the 39th minute when midfield schemer Lewis Cairns found Craig Hume in the box. The ball seemed to hit the Leith player’s hand before he swept it into the net but referee George Salmond ignored the United plea for hand ball and the goal stood.

The visitors then went three up in their next attack as left winger Matthew Watson’s shot beat Dowie at the near post.

It should have been four just after the break, but Gavin Tainsh’s shot went over the bar from four yards.

Midway through the half, some good interchange by Kelso’s Des Burnett and Liam Wallace saw the latter hit the post from the edge of the box.

United got on the scoresheet after 73 minutes when good work in midfield by substitute Greg Porter found Darren Bowie. The big midfielder crossed to the near post and Mabon got in front of defender Liam Jack to head into the net.

Then, after Burnett struck the woodwork on connection with a Sean Angus free kick, the striker did get his goal with two minutes remaining when he outjumped the defence to head home a John McCutcheon free kick.

The scoreline flattered the visitors – they scored on practically the full-time whistle, substitute Sean MacPherson heading home a Stevens cross.

Kelso United: S. Dowie, J. McCutcheon, S. Angus, D. McNulty, G. McNulty, D. Bowie, C. McClure (L. Hill 80), M. Laidler (G. Porter 70), D. Burnett, L. Wallace, G. Mabon.

Gala Hotspur 2

Linton Hotspur 2

A Stewart Robertson strike rescued a deserved point for Gala against their West Linton namesakes.

Linton were 2-1 up at half-time before Robertson’s goal, which all but seals Gala’s place in Division B. Stuart Harkness got Gala’s other counter.

Vale of Leithen 4

CS Strollers 0

IT WAS little more than a stroll in the park for Vale as they racked up their third league win on the trot, writes Dave Ryce.

Playing on home ground they opened the scoring in the 21st minute, as a deep Eddie Mearns cross into the area was hooked back across by Steven Rixon and Scott Moffat sent a first-time shot fizzing into the net.

A couple of minutes later Vale doubled their advantage thanks to some ponderous defending.

Rixon got to a high ball ahead of Strollers keeper Bruce Callan and managed to turn and poke it home, despite the presence of two defenders on the line, who looked to be leaving the clearance to each other.

A third arrived in the 37th minute as a Daniel McAleavy corner found James Young, who powered his header high into the net.

Civil Service conceded a penalty as John Ramsey sent substitute player/manager Fraser Ogilvie tumbling in the box. Mearns hit the spot kick well enough, but Callan dived superbly to turn the ball away.

But in the 79th minute, Vale put some gloss onto the result when a Mearns cut-back found Brigain arriving at the near post to tuck the ball under Callan.

It’s fair to say Vale’s league position of third bottom is a false one, as they have still only played 13 matches.

Vale of Leithen: J. Hudson, J. Young, D. McAleavy, C. McAleavy, J. Blaikie, E. Mearns, C. Brigain, K. Dodds (F. Ogilvie), S. Moffat, S. Rixon, D. Thomson.

Selkirk 1

Craigroyston 2

CRAIGIE moved to within one point of a promotion place, but they had to come from behind to defeat their hosts.

Chances were scarce early on, but Jamie Gibson shot over when well placed for Selkirk in the early stages, then Mark Hendrie shot wide for the visitors.

Selkirk did, however, open the scoring when a free kick from halfway was met by the head of Euan Pritchard, who headed past Craigie keeper Stuart Burnside.

Then Gibson raced through the Craigie defence, but dragged his shot wide.

The city men dragged themselves back into the match just before the interval when good play by Craig Anderson set up Craig Dickson, who shot low past John Dodds to send the sides in level at half time.

In a 60-second period at the start of the second half, Burnside pulled off an excellent double save to thwart an unmarked Gibson. Craigie then raced up the park, and John Dunn cut inside to score.

Craigie almost doubled their lead minutes later as Hendrie’s shot was cleared off the line then Dodds saved from Dickson, who headed the rebound over before Dodds saved Anderson’s attempted lob.

Selkirk pushed for an equaliser, and Gibson again shot across the face of goal, before Daryl Johnson saw his free kick superbly saved by Burnside.

Selkirk: J. Dodds, L. Stephen, K. Munro (R. Pepper), J. Inglis, E. Pritchard, D. Johnson, M. Holness, R. McManus, J. Gibson, J. Watt, A. Butters (C. Peoples).

Ancrum 4

Hawick Legion 1

Liam Gellaitry opened the scoring for the Legion, but it was their only one, while Ancrum went on to score four to soar to the top of Division B.

Daniel Gillie got the first and third for the Villagers, while the others were scored by Ash Langford and Kyle Finlayson.

The East of Scotland First Division clash between Peebles Rovers and Eyemouth United was cancelled last weekend.

Following an inspection by two referees during the week the Whitestone Park venue was declared unplayable for safety reasons. More on this story on page 80.

It may go down as one of the most extreme sportives in history.

Participants in Sunday’s Tour o’ the Borders faced flooded roads, gale force winds and torrential rain.

But despite the challenging conditions, the majority of the 100-strong field battled through to complete the route – albeit a shortened version after flash flooding rendering some roads completely impassable.

Starting and finishing in Peebles, the non-competitive group ride was meant to be a fun, but challenging, day out on the bike. But neither organisers nor cyclists knew just how challenging when they awoke on Sunday morning, with no weather warnings and no flood alerts issued.

It wasn’t until the cyclists were on course that the weather really closed in. Organisers sent out scores of cars to collect any riders who wanted to turn back, but most seemed determined to finish the route.

Neil Dalgleish, one of the organisers of the Tour o’ the Borders, said: “We really couldn’t have predicted just how bad the weather was going to be. The forecast wasn’t great, but there were no flood or weather warnings in place.

“I’ve never seen anything like it – the combination of snow melt, heavy rain and strong winds made for atrocious riding conditions.

“As soon as the storm really set in, we sent out a fleet of vehicles to pick up riders and help anyone who needed it, but amazingly, only six of them took us up on it. When we were out on course, it was great to see everyone helping each other out and just making the most of it – it was a sort of ‘blitz spirit’ mentality. Most people seemed to see the funny side and crossed the line with a smile on their face.

“I think it’s safe to say this year’s tour will be remembered for a very long time to come!”

One participant, Chris Turbitt, even found himself being rescued by a tractor as he was caught out by the rising flood water on the B711 near Tushielaw.

The 42-year old from Roslin said: “The weather was truly awful but I actually felt more sorry for the marshals than the riders. We put our heads down, gritted our teeth and just got on with it, but they were standing still at the side of the road for hours on end. I take my hats off to the marshals and organisers for the way they handled the situation.”

The riders were rewarded for their efforts with hot food and showers at Peebles High School, and many said the weather had not put them off.

Peter Wilson, from Darlington, commented: “I have never ridden in anything like it but I will be back to conquer it next year without a doubt. It’s a fantastically well organised event with some great people involved – I’m looking forward to 2014 already.”

TALK of an all-Border final between hosts Melrose and Kings of the Sevens leaders Gala was soon knocked on the head on Saturday.

For once again English Premiership side Saracens travelled to the Greenyards and swept all before them at the Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens tournament.

Nils Mordt and his team followed up their win in 2012 by beating fellow guest side Clermont Auvergne in an exciting final in which Saracens came from behind to win 24-22 with a last-second converted try.

Saracens coach Joe Shaw paid tribute to his team as well as commending the young Clermont side.

He said: “I have to give credit to Nils and the lads. They stuck at it and did what they had to do. And I’m really chuffed for them.

“Clermont are under-23 players from the senior academy and they all played really well today. I must admit I was getting a little nervous at the end of the first half and credit where credit’s due, they took it to the very last minute.”

In turn, Clermont coach Alex King applauded his opponents.

“It was a cruel ending, but Saracens were deserved winners and I take my hat off to them,” he said.

“It was great that we got to ply our skills on the big stage today and we were close, but not quite close enough.”

Scotland skipper and former Melrose back row man Kelly Brown was not present to watch his club side take the victory, but Saracen’s sevens captain Joe “Mad Dog” Maddock, who will retire at the end of the season, told The Southern he was sure he would be listening in somewhere.

“Kelly will probably be jumping out of his boots right now,” he added.

“He is captaining our XV’s team tomorrow, but he sent us all messages of support. We desperately wanted to do it for him and, indeed, the support we have had from all at Melrose has been brilliant.”

Both Gala and Melrose from the Borders made the quarter-final stage, which allowed the Maroons to hold on to their top spot on the Kings of the 7s table, before being ousted by Clermont and Aberdeen Grammar respectively. To make matters worse, former Melrose captain Scott Wight played a pivotal role in the defeat. The Glasgow Warriors stand-off made an appearance at his home sevens for his draft team Aberdeeen and his eyecatching breaks caused his former side no end of problems.

The 10,000 strong crowd didn’t seem to mind too much, though, and soon turned their allegiances to Wight’s side, who took Saracens to extra time in the semis.

Ayr were the fourth semi-finalists following their victory over guest side Worcester, but hopes of a Scottish side making it through were soon dashed.

Summing up another great afternoon at the Greenyards, Melrose president John Reed said: “I think it was a hugely successful tournament.

“I managed to see a couple of tight quarter-finals, two hair’s-breadth victories in the semis and an absolute cliffhanger of a final. How close we were to having two Scottish sides in the final and it was great to see Scott Wight, albeit in the wrong colours, playing so imperiously.

“We get a few messages and comments at the club about how it should be a Borders tournament with no outsiders taking part, but they just don’t get it. Melrose Sevens has grown and developed to be a celebration of its roots and birth as the original tournament. It tests all of the teams beyond their comfort zones and in the last three tournaments, Melrose, Jed, Aberdeen and Ayr have all shown that they can compete. Long may Melrose Sevens be the showcase for club sevens.”

A flood alert has been issued for the Borders, with the Ettrick Valley at most risk according to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

The warning comes after a day of heavy rain across the region.

A SEPA spokesman said: “Rivers in the western Borders, particularly within the Ettrick valley, have the potential to result in minor flooding impacts in response to today’s rainfall.

“Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property. Advice and information is available through Floodline on 0845 9881188.”

Galashiels photographer Alwyn Johnston has given himself the task of documenting the rebuilding of part of the Waverley railway in photographs.

Throughout the construction, until the new line opens, we will run regular updates, and watch the changes taking place through Alwyn’s pictures. The above photographs were taken during a walk of the planned route. Clockwise, from top left, the viaduct at Newtongrange, a sign of earlier times, former platform at Heriot, cutting trees along the route, Stow, and work under way along the Black Path, Galashiels

HAWICK president Rory Bannerman is ready to welcome supporters to Mansfield Park on Saturday for an afternoon of good old-fashioned Borders sevens.

And he is hoping the Greens can maintain their stranglehold on the annual tournament by lifting the RBC Capital Markets Hawick Sevens silverware for an unbelievable sixth successive year.

He said: “To win it six times in a row would be unthinkable until you look at the lads we’ve got playing in our side and then you realise it is most definitely thinkable.

“Guys like John Coutts, Neil Renwick, Rory Hutton and Keith Davies who will be raring to go and eager to go out and win their sixth title in a row.”

Hawick have a predominantly Borders line-up for their tournament, which includes Gala, Kelso, Hawick YM, Jed-Forest, Berwick, Peebles and Heriot’s. Although there is the addition of visiting teams from Ponteland and Rugby MADs – a select side from Holland.

Mr Bannerman added: “We thought it was quite poignant to bring Ponteland, given their proximity to Hexham and the celebrations we will be having around the 500th anniversary of Hornshole.

“The team from Holland will also bring a little continental flair as well.

“Last weekend, the nearest any Scottish club got to winning at Melrose was Ayr and that’s a hundred miles away. We’re hoping there will will be a bit more of a local taint here.”

Mansfield Park will be a buzz of activity on an eagerly-anticipated day that is being billed as fun for all the family.

The army will be coming down with climbing walls for the kids, referee Andy Ireland will be speaking at the corporate function beforehand, there is live music from the Stevie T Band, entertainment in the evening and a kids tournament on the neighbouring Mansfield Haugh pitch, with the final due to be played ahead of the day’s big final.

And there will be a special event for the ladies at the hugely popular Ladies Day.Brodie Dyce has organised the event alongside Gala legend Richie Gray, who operates outdoor bar specialists The Bar.

And Brodie revealed there are almost 200 women booked up.

She said: “It has been very much in demand ... I’ve had to say there’s no more tickets available.”

This year’s sponsor is RBC Capital Markets, part of the Royal Bank of Canada – a leading provider of financial services and one of the 15 largest banks in the world.

Mr Bannerman said: “We believe that this will be a mutually beneficial venture and we look forward to a better, stronger, sevens tournament as a result of this partnership.”

And with a dry day expected weather-wise, it promises to be another momentous occasion on the Kings calendar.

“There’s so much going on this year, there really is something for everybody. We hope everyone comes along and enjoys the day,” said Mr Bannerman.

Grand National hero Ryan Mania is all set to go for a racing double this weekend – provided Auroras Encore gets the all-clear, writes Kenny Paterson.

The 23-year-old declared himself fit to tackle the Scottish National at Ayr on Saturday, while handing out the medals at the third Meigle Run in Galashiels last Friday.

He had suffered a horror fall at Hexham just 24 hours after claiming the biggest win of his career at Aintree.

But trainer Sue Smith said this week that if the rain falls on Ayrshire, Auroras Encore will not run, although the forecast is to be dry.

Mania told The Southern: “I am fully fit, it is just down to whether the owners and trainers wish to go for it.

“I am desperate to get back racing.”

Despite a hectic schedule for the Clovenfords jockey, whose reign as Braw Lad officially ends tomorrow when his successor is named, Mania still made time to visit the Meigle Run, organised by Gala Harriers to raise cash for Rowan Boland Memorial Trust. Kelso’s Colin Welsh claimed the senior trophy for the three-mile race in 17 minutes and eight seconds, beating team-mate Graeme Murdoch, who was the reigning champion.

Overall, 200 runners took part, including many youngsters in the junior fun run around the Gala Cricket Club pitch.

In total, over £1,100 was raised for the charity, which also took the opportunity on Friday to hand over a cheque for £750 to Gordon’s wheelchair athlete Samantha Kinghorn to help fund her trip to Switzerland next month for a world class event.

Samantha said: “It is a blindingly fast track and I will be competing against athletes from across the globe.

“Without the support of the trust, I would struggle to be able to go.”

Mania, who presented the cheque, added: “It is great what the trust is doing. I have no doubt there are some future jockeys, rugby and football players taking part in the running today.”

Other results: 1st Female – F. Dalgleish, 20.08; 1st Male Vet Over 50 – D. Nightingale, 20.19; 1st Female Vet Over 40 – J. Forbes, 20.29; 1st Junior Male, J. Agnew – 20.18; 1st Junior Female – R. Fagan, 25.23.

THE END of the badminton season is approaching at a rate of knots, with Borders age group squads having a busy time.

A very young side took on teams from Lanarkshire, Yorkshire, Isle of Man, Lothian and the North East at the Under-13 Invitation Eight Counties event at Meadowmill.

With many of the older players away for Easter and two missing due to commitments with Scottish teams in Belgium, this was going to be a tough competition.

Despite some very spirited play and tight wins in the singles and doubles, the local team ended up at the bottom of the table.

The team consisted of Andrew Hogg, Leona Rhind, Dion Trafford, Ninian Grant, Craig Younger, Jodie Black, Catherine Marsh and Molly McDonald. All were happy to receive their medals for taking part and gaining yet more experience, and the coaches were proud of the team.

The experience gained from the Lothian competition carried forward to the Ashington Under-12 Anglo-Scottish tournament last weekend.

The team played some outstanding badminton to take second place for the first time and were able to secure several No1 singles games, together with some amazing gritty performances from exciting prospects. The team went down to Lothian (eventual winners) 3-12 before beating Lanarkshire 10-5 and Yorkshire 9-6. The highlight came on day two when a crucial game against Northumberland Tyne and Wear produced five tie-break games before the Borders won 8-7.

Coaches were kept on the ball throughout but worked well to help the youngsters produce their best team win in Ashington to date. Lynne Young added: “Thanks go to the parents, also, for their tremendous support.”

The next stop for the Borders youngsters is the Scottish Primary School championships and then its off to Largs to meet many of the same teams again.

Bowling

Galashiels

The 2013 season will start on Saturday, with the delivery of the first jack taking place at around 2pm.

Play on the day will depend on the state of the green, work on which has been hampered by the unusually cold weather experienced in recent weeks. New members will be made very welcome.

A buffet has been organised and in order to establish likely numbers , members should add their names to the list currently displayed on the noticeboard. For the gents, there are lists of availability for the various leagues etc and members should add their names as soon as possible, with the practice match against Melrose already arranged for Friday, April 26.

Earlston

On a very blustery, but bright day on Sunday, the Earlston club opened its green for the new season.

Julia Beattie, wife of president Bob, threw the first jack before members played their annual Opening Day Triples.

With many of the bowlers having spent the winter playing on the indoor green, play was interesting to say the least. Showing most consistency throughout, however, were George A. Cessford and his team of Denise Kellett and Anne Falconer, who outplayed Davie Benton’s flagging threesome, including Andrew Black and Fiona Scott, in the final.

The club will be holding their annual coffee morning at Hanover House this Saturday at 10am. Donations of home baking and raffle prizes from members would be much appreciated.

Tweedbank

The season has now finished and a successful prize presentation night took place on Friday.

The club will open again on the first Monday in September. However, members are reminded that the club will continue to be open every Thursday throughout the summer months.

A session will be running between noon and 2pm and if this proves popular a further session will take place from 2-4pm.

The shop will be available for the benefit of members and any other bowlers wishing to purchase equipment or clothing.

Curling

Coldstream & Hirsel

The club’s annual dinner and prizegiving was recently held in the splendid setting of Hirsel Golf Club.

More than 60 members and guests were in attendance, with a wide running dog bringing a few in from a greater area. Following the meal, president Will Murray gave a resume of the club’s considerable achievements over the past season, the highlights being winning the Agrii Border League, and the Laidlaw and Dickinson trophies. Many other winners at all levels, too numerous to mention, were listed. Following this, an elderly blue-jacketed guest proposed the toast to the club and then David Nairn Clark gave his inimitable rendition of The Haggis of Private MacPhee. Johanna Nicholson presented the great variety of prizes to the worthy winners.

Jedburgh

Jedburgh CC recently held its AGM with no change in the admin side of things.

This means that Mike Frost moves into the second year of his presidency with John Sinton as vice-president. Kate Jackson has been re-elected as secretary and treasurer, Wendy Frost is rep to the Royal Club, Lucy Tile is rep to the ladies’ section of the BIR, while Andrew Dodds, Katie Moses and Hilary Jackson make up the committee. Membership numbers are steady, but there is always room for more. Club leagues and other competitions have been well supported throughout the season and a very successful invitation bonspiel wound up the Jedburgh season.

Province

Herewith an early warning to all curlers, male and female alike.

The Province AGM will be held on Thursday, May 2, downstairs, while the ladies’ section AGM and subsequent bunfight will take place in the clubroom, following which, province attenders will be welcome to the aftermath of said bunfight.

Cycling

Galashiels

It was to the hills the 14 riders took on Wednesday night for round one of the Gordon route.

A cool night meant a chill on your chest racing down from Windydoors, but this did not deter race winner Leahn Parry finishing in 31 minutes 35 seconds. Second home was Alistair Meikle (32.05) and Simon Mills (33.05) completed the top three riders.

A few technical issues arose for some with recently fitted kit, and it was the pump holder for Chris Adamson that rubbed his calf every pedal stroke, eventually breaking the skin. It wasn’t all plain sailing, either for Jack Houston, who took a wrong turn on the course, costing him a better race position.

Riders are reminded that the club advises everyone to use and wear a rear light during the races. Also, for future race meetings at Buckholm, could all riders who bring a car, park in the layby opposite Torwoodlee.

Other results: 4, J. Stark 33.18; 5, C. Adamson 34.12; 6, N. Shepard 34.27; 7, S. McCann 35.19; 8, B. Lowes 36.10; 9, B. Hamilton 37.58; 10, P. Farquahar 38.26; 11, K. Veitch 40.00; 12, A. Cowburgh 41.20; 13, J. Houston 43.23; 14, D. McCudden 46.10.

Next Wednesday, riders meet at Abbotsford for the popular tough sporting course race, which will see the riders pedal over the hills of Abbotsford, continue up through Selkirk and up over the golf course road to St Boswells, before returning to Abbotsford, all-in-all, a 20-mile hilly TT.

The race will start at 6.30pm. Please be early and sign on.

Kelso

On Monday night, Kelso Wheelers held a 10-mile time trial on the Birgham course.

The youths did a normal time trial and the seniors a two-up with 20 riders taking part.

Three out of the four youths recorded personal best times, with Andrew Martin competing in his first time trial.

Junior results: 1, F. Veitch 34.38pb; 2, A. Martin 37.35; 3, D. Easson 38.06pb; 4, Ross Gillie 38.37.

The seniors paired up for the night, and it was Mike and David Burgher who won the two-up in 23.28. Other results: 2, R. Ure, J. Smith 23.55; 3, I. McKenzie, S. Gaunt 24.18; 4, K. Gillie, R. Norris 25.25; 5, R. Connell, K. Wilson 26.28; 6, G. Veitch, D. Richardson 26.33; 7, R. Smith, A. Ker 30.52; 8, D. Whitecross, A. Martin 33.37.

Next week is a 10-mile time trial on the Carham course. Sign on at Woodside Park before 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

Golf

Melrose

Fullarton Foursomes: 1, C. Dalgleish & M. Scully; 2, B. Robertson & J. Shirra-Gibb.

Minto

Gents’ Old Course Cup: 1, D. Miller 82 (17) 65; 2, T. M. Hartop 86 (19) 67; 3, G. Morrison 80 (12) 68.

Gents’ Famous Grouse Foursomes, Sunday, April 14: Eleven pairs signed up for the competition last week, but unfortunately it had to be abandoned due to adverse weather conditions – a new date is still to be confirmed.

Minto Golf Club is holding its inaugural charity Texas scramble tournament this Saturday.

Selkirk

THE annual Captains v Presidents match was played on Selkirk Hill, with a full quota of golfers participating.

The traditional season-opening event has always generated a great deal of interest with those eager to get the season into full swing.

The course was in fine condition and the work put in by the greenkeeping staff and a few hearty helpers did not go unnoticed.

The rivalry between the two teams, led by captain Alan Wheelans and president John Hume, was there in earnest.

But as always, the match was played in good spirit and the result was a dignified draw.

St Boswells

Ladies’ Medal: 1, M. Allen 91 (23) 68; 2, S. Gerard 103 (33) 70; 3, R. Thorburn 96 (24) 72.

Torwoodlee

J .C. Hall Trophy: 1, R. Kyle 80 (13) 67; 2, D. Catto 89 (21) 68 bih; 3, B. Green 82 (14) 68. bih

Pool

Border League

With two weeks left in the leagues, both titles have been decided, with Reivers A lifting the First Division and Station the Second Division.

Reivers A raced into the lead before Fleece fought back with some unbelievable finishes to make the scoreline respectable.

High Level A eased into second place as Dryburgh failed to show, while Waverley A blew their chance to stay second when going down to Reivers B.

Division Two saw Bridge B chasing hard for second spot, blowing away Niki’s, who played poorly on the night. Station sealed the title against local rivals Frankies. The other match was nip and tuck, with Red Lion edging High Level B.

Results – Division One: High Level A (Hawick) 9 Dryburgh (Newtown) 0; Reivers A (Gala) 6 Fleece (Selkirk) 3; Waverley A (Hawick) 4 Reivers B (Hawick) 5. Division Two: Niki’s (Gala) 3 Bridge B (Gala) 6; Red Lion (Kelso) 5 High Level B (Hawick) 4; Station (Hawick) 7 Frankies (Hawick) 2.

2012/13 Borders Snooker League Champions – Bannerman Burke Properties Border Snooker Singles competition: winner, L. Mc Allister (Hawick Con); runner-up, F. Kelly (Selkirk Con).

Store-age.org.uk Border Snooker League: winners, Hawick Con Club A; runners-up Hawick Burns Club A; highest break, L. McAllister (Hawick Con A). Store-age.org.uk Border Snooker Handicap League: winners, Jed Legion; runners-up, Hawick Con Club A.

Jean Yule Cup: winners, Hawick Burns Club A; runners-up, St Boswells. Jean Yule Plate Trophy: winners, Border Club; runners-up, Jed Legion Club. Hawick Burns Club-sponsored Border Snooker Pairs: winners, L. McAllister and M. Liddell (Hawick Con); runners-up, G. Kinnaer and A. Hogg (Hawick Burns). Selkirk Con Club Borders Snooker 25 and under: winner, P. Crolla (Selkirk Con); runner-up, L. Wallace (Jed Legion). Borders Billiards competition: winner, L. Mc Allister (Hawick Con); runner-up, G. O’Brien (Jed Legion).