IT WAS a busy day in the hills for some of the Moorfoot Runners last Saturday.

Chronologically, first up was Sarah McCormack who was down in the Lake District for the popular Fairfield Horseshoe race (14.5km/914m climb) entries for which closed early at a maximum of 600.

A good descent saw Sarah finish second female in a quality field behind Victoria Wilkinson and over two minutes ahead of Helen Fines and Olivia Walwyn, all GB Internationalists.

The Scottish Athletics Junior Hill Running Championships were next to get underway at Rowardennan on the lower slopes of Ben Lomond. This proved to be a tough course with a mix of the rocky tourist path, some reasonable trails and some tricky off-path rough and boggy sections.

In only her second ever hill race Mairi Wallace (12) took silver in the U15 girls’ race (2.7km/155m) finishing nearly a minute closer to the Scottish Schools U15 cross-country champion than in her first race on East Lomond in Fife two weeks ago.

Jacob Adkin (16) looked very strong in the U20 men’s race (6km/360m), leading before the final descent and he too took a Championship silver medal close behind a Helm Hill raider from England. His nearest Scottish rival Andrew Lawler (Law & District) was 48 seconds back in third. Lucas Cheskin (16) had a much improved run to finish fourth ahead of last week’s 3 Bridges winner Luke Foss (also Law & District).

Moorfoot coach Gregor Nicholson told us: “This should guarantee Jacob’s selection for Scotland for the World Mountain Running Association’s Youth International in July which he had to decline last year due to a clash with a school trip. And Lucas’s run might also put him in the mix for consideration.”

In the senior Ben Lomond race which followed, Moorfoot Andrew Cox looked to have a good run for 11th in 1.16.44.

Finally, Scout Adkin (19) was up at Glenshee racing on Glas Tulaichean (7.4km/670m) in the Scottish uphill trial for the Senior Home International in Keswick in two weeks time. Scout secured automatic selection with another second place behind GB orienteerer Tessa Hill (HBT) and over a minute ahead of third placed Charlotte Morgan (Carnethy).

Nicholson added: “It might have been a day of Moorfoot seconditis but all were very pleasing results which augur well for the season ahead.”

ASHKIRK

Coffee morning

The village hall is the venue for a coffee and cake morning (10am-noon) on May 25 in aid of Ashkirk Church.

Bowden

WRI

Isobel King gave a presentation about Arthritis Research, the UK’s fourth largest charity. Competition – spring posy – 1, Joyce Smith; 2, Pam Boyd; 3, Kathleen Hughes.

Caddonfoot

Church

The Reverend Marion Dodd conducted the sacrament of holy communion on Ascension Sunday in Caddonfoot Church where the lessons were read Roddy Beatson. The kirkin’ of the Braw Lad will be held in Trinity Church, Galashiels, on June 23 and the kirk session has agreed to hold a joint service with both churches at 10.30am that day. There will be no Bible study this week, but the nominating committee to appoint a new minister meets on May 17. A Christian Aid Week joint coffee morning will be held in Trinity Church hall from 10am-noon on May 18. Caddonfoot kirk session meets on May 22 at 7.30pm.

DARNICK

WRI

For the annual afternoon outing, members enjoyed a trip to Dobbies before going on to Peebles Hydro for high tea. The June 13 meeting will feature Mrs Waldie talking and showing pictures of her charity walk in Jordan. Non-members welcome.

Earlston

Church

The May 19 service at 10.15am will be conducted by the Reverend Julie Woods. The summer newsletter will be

available shortly.

Wednesday Club

Members were last week shown a slide show by Dinah Iredale about “The Forgotten Workers” – bondagers, female farm workers who lived and worked in the south-east of Scotland and north-east of England. Competition – small piece of crystal – 1, Nancy Anderson; 2, Margaret Melrose; 3, Agnes Penman. The summer outing is on May 22. An invitation has been received from Mrs Foyle for the annual visit to Carolside Gardens on June 27. Names of people wishing to go should be given to Sheila McKay (01896 848240) before June 12. This is not exclusively for Wednesday Club members and other village residents will be welcome.

Sale

Earlston Horticultural Society will hold its annual bedding plant sale and coffee morning at Hanover Close, The Square, on May 18. All proceeds go towards supporting the 2013 Earlston Flower Show.

AGM

Earlston Community Council’s AGM is on May 16, starting at 7pm in the primary school.

EDNAM

Sale

Ednam PS is raising funds for reading books with a table-top sale at Ednam village hall on May 18 (10am-1pm). Call Susan (01573 224172) to book a table.

Ettrickbridge

Coffee morning

The next monthly coffee morning and sale in aid of village hall funds will be held on June 1 (10am-noon). Anyone with something to sell is invited to come along, take a table and give a small donation to hall funds.

galashiels

Probus

The meeting was chaired by president Sandy Frame and the speaker was the Reverend Alistair Bennett. His topic was the multi-million pound development of the old Church of Scotland guest house in Galilee into the Scots Hotel. The next meeting is on May 23 at 10am.

Church

Galashiels Fellowship of Churches is holding a “Catch the Fire” Pentecost event in the Old Parish and St Paul’s Church on May 19 (4-6pm).

Hawick

Bridge club

President Bob Witherington was in charge of a well-attended AGM and prizegiving on May 6. He presented trophies for play during the winter season – Drumlanrig Cup for Monday night pairs, Patsy Gilligan and Mary Millar; Wednesday night pairs, Patsy Gilligan and Mary Millar; Margaret Burgon Quaich for teams of four, Mike Tuson, Bob Witherington, Sam White and John Urquhart; Silver Jubilee Cup (played after the close of AGM), Mary Millar and John Urquhart. Play continues on Mondays at 6.45pm in the Tower Mill until the end of September. Visiting players welcome. More information is

available from M. Tuson (01450 374614) and www.bridgewebs.com/hawick.

Rotary

At last week’s AGM, the various committee conveners reported on the current year’s work. More than £1,800 had been disbursed to support various local and international causes – Mary’s Meals, £400; district junior golf, £40; primary schools swimming gala medals, £100; high school prize, £25; Margaret Kerr palliative care fund, £400; Polio Plus, £80; Lewis Teckham, £100; Streets Ahead, £100; Border Jumbulance Holiday Group, £250; Friends of the Community Hospital, £280; Breast Cancer Care, £146. After discussion it was decided that, in future, only individual cases of an exceptional nature would receive financial aid, but charity groups would not be affected. Office-bearers for next year – president, Scott Elliot; vice-president, Sandy Bannerman; junior vice-president, Mairhi Trickett; secretary, Iain Smith; treasurer, Bob Kellett. The Rotary Club meets every Thursday at 7 pm in the Buccleuch Hotel – anyone interested in joining is welcome.

Church

The fifth year of Gather in Compassion takes place at Hawick Congregational Community Church on June 11 (9.30am-2.30pm), and the theme is “Believing in Yourself”. The day will be facilitated by health-care practitioner Christina Mark. Anyone who is interested is welcome to attend, particularly if they are a volunteer, carer, work within the caring services and would like time out for themselves. A place can be booked or further information obtained by contacting Geraldine Strickland (phone, 01835 830650; email, reachingout7@googlemail) by June 5.

Heriot

Coffee morning

A church coffee morning will be held on May 25 (10.30am-noon) at the MacFie Hall.

Hownam

Towford WRI

John Robertson gave a talk on poisonous plants at the latest meeting. Competition – a flower arrangement – 1, M. Hornsby; 2, D. Tweedie. The whist drive is to be held in Hownam Hall on May 28 at 7.30pm. The next gathering is the summer outing to Woodside Garden Centre on June 4 – meet at 6.30pm.

Innerleithen

Coffee morning

St Ronan’s Ex-Standard Bearers’ Association will hold its annual coffee morning on May 18 in the Vale Club from 10am-noon.

Ball

The St Ronan’s Standard Bearer’s Ball will be held on July 13 in St Ronan’s Marquee. Tickets are on sale on May 18 from 8am at Foresters, Wells Brae.

Concert

St Ronan’s Silver Band will hold a celebration concert on May 24 in the Memorial Hall at 7.30pm to mark its Scottish Championship win. Tickets are available from John Adam’s Bakery in Innerleithen or Robb’s KeyStore in Peebles. They can also be ordered by sending a stamped addressed envelope to St Ronan’s Silver Band, 21 Miller Street, Innerleithen EH44 6QR. Cheques should be payable to “St Ronan’s Silver Band”. Phone 01896 831721 or email KJBelleville@aol.com for further information.

Plant sale

Innerleithen Civic Association will hold its annual plant sale on the forecourt of the Memorial Hall on May 25.

Fun day

Innerleithen Family Fun Day will take place on June 2 (1-5pm) in Victoria Park. The tennis club is holding an open afternoon and there will be ClubGolf sessions, a children’s tug-o-war and bowls. After the success of last year’s cricket match, this is to be repeated and will be held from 10am in the Vale Park – for more information contact Tom Harrison (01896 833492). A car boot sale is another attraction and anyone who would like to book a place should call 01896 831721.

Church

There are two services on May 19 – Innerleithen Church (11.30am) and St Ronan’s House (4 pm).

KELSO

Bridge club

May 8 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, John Hayton and Lee Leeson; 2, Rena Stewart and Annie Mitchell; 3, Alex Jeffrey and Jock Dun; E/W – 1, Jean McLaren and Val Fairbairn; 2 (equal), Archie Stewart and Lesley Dick, and John and Marian Miller; May 9 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, Rena Stewart and Val Johnstone; 2, Jim Stone and Annie Mitchell; 3, Stuart Graham and Mary Stone; E/W – 1, Elinor Green and Val Fairbairn; 2, John and Marian Miller; 3, Bunty Underwood and Dorreen Vivian.

Rotary

Businessman Derek Cameron described to members the development of his Kelso-based company, Scotmas, during the 15 years he has been designing and installing water treatment projects all over the world. With a workforce of 50, Scotmas also manufactures and sells mosquito nets and repellents.

Plant and book sale

A plant and paperback book sale is being held at the Bowmont Street side of Kelso North Church on May 25 (9am-noon) in aid of church funds.

Embroiderers’ Guild

The next meeting will be held on May 28 in the Abbey Row Centre at 7pm. There will be a short EGM, followed by members showing their “Treasured Textiles”. This can be pieces of work they made, or ones they own.

Langholm

Sponsored walk

The local Macmillan Cancer Support sponsored walk was held on a dry but chilly evening and raised more than £250. It started from the community centre car park and went round the streets of the town, with several members of the group carrying collection buckets. On the walkers’ return, they were served coffee, tea and biscuits in the community centre by Greg Halford and Kate Turk.

Probus club

President Jim Thomson welcomed 27 members to the latest meeting. Business discussed included arrangements for the 30th anniversary lunch which will be held on July 3 in the Eskdale Hotel, following on from the AGM. Vice-president Jack Rae informed everyone of arrangements for the summer trip on August 14 to Ocean Terminal, Leith, and the festival at Edinburgh. The bus will leave the Kilngreen at 8.30am, returning at 7pm. Members of the public who want to go should contact Charlie Edgar (80081) for a ticket. Speaker at the next meeting (May 15) will be Gavin Graham on the Mormons of Utah.

Boys’ night

The annual Castle Craigs boys’ night took place in the Crown Hotel, attended by 28 lads. Castle Craigs club president Andrew Johnstone was in charge of proceedings. There was a drawing competition on a common riding theme for different age groups, quizzes and singing, and the boys tucked into party food. Ex-Cornet Billy Young gave a talk on the Castle Craigs fair crier, a duty which he shares with Ex-Cornet David Pool and carries out every two years. Cornet Andrew Elliot was in attendance, along with Right and Left-Hand men Lee Earsman and Graeme Murray, the last official duty of the present front three prior to the new Cornet being elected. Cornet Elliot made the presentations to the winners. Drawing – under seven years – 1, Danny Hotson; 2, Greg Cartner; 3, Will Donaldson; seven-eight years – 1, Leo Aitken; 2, Eric Goodfellow; 3, Callum Scott; best dressed – 1, Spencer Armstrong; 2, Finn McVittie; 3, Leighton Foster; quiz – 1, Callum Henderson (R. E. Borthwick Shield); 2, Christopher Tait, 3 Bailey Donaldson.

Umbrella walk

The sponsored umbrella walk organised by the Rotary club raised more than £10,000. The walk in March attracted numerous local clubs and organisations, and the money they raised was added to that given by three local trusts – David Stevenson, Arthur Bell, and John and Mary Elliot Memorial. After a percentage deducted for costs, the remainder was presented at the Rotary meeting in the Crown Hotel to the 26 groups, in proportion to what they had raised. During the evening the Rotary community service award was given to Tom Stothart who has been involved in many activities in the town, including golf, rugby and library. The young citizen of the year honour went to David Dickson for his volunteer work with the Scouts, Moorland project and Bonnie Langholm.

Common riding

Farmer Alasdair Cavers was elected Langholm Cornet in Friday’s public vote (see page 22). At the public meeting in the Buccleuch Centre, common riding committee chairman Roger Maxwell was accompanied onto the stage by vice-chairman Tommy Morrison, who was standing in for secretary Kenneth Hill, and treasurer Paul Davidson. Mr Maxwell said the huge crowds last year had showed how much the common riding was valued and they had a cornet of the highest calibre in Andrew Elliot. He also thanked the Right and Left Hand-Men, Lee Earsman and Graeme Murray, for the support they had given. Mr Maxwell also thanked the committee and praised numerous others who had helped make the common riding a success, including officiating magistrate David Stevenson, fair crier Rae Elliot and the bands, landowners, patrons, sponsors and donors.He said Reid and Taylor had sponsored the Cumberland wrestling for numerous years and it was a sad day when the mill closure was announced. Nominations for the committee, which now numbers 30, were announced, and the chairman said they would welcome any others, or even people who could help on the gate for a short time. On behalf of Kenneth Hill, the vice-chairman gave his report and said this year they had a diamond jubilee Cornet in John Paterson, who had been elected in 1952, but due a foot-and-mouth outbreak, things had been curtailed and his father carried the flag, and he carried out the duties the following year. The jubilee Cornet is George Ellwood, and in 1963 there were four candidates and 1,007 votes cast. Dr Beeching was bringing the axe down on the railways, Cliff Richard and The Shadows were playing at Carlisle, the town clock went electric and David Stevenson broke the British pole vault record, jumping 14ft 3in – but being at a Highland Games meeting it was not made official. Andrew Jeffrey is the semi-jubilee Cornet and in 1988 he beat Andrew Johnstone in a close-run contest, with the total vote cast being 1,126. He was presented with the flag by officiating magistrate James Harkness and had a mounted following of 200. The approval was given 25 years ago to upgrade the Academy to S5, and then to S6 a year later. The rugby team won the division three championship that year. The treasurer gave the financial statement which showed less sponsorship, including money not received from ScottishPower, and more expenditure, plus a drop in takings in a number of areas, and finished with a small profit of £464. Questions were raised with regard to the funfair and the high prices charged by the council for the Kilngreen. Mr Morrison has spoken to the show folk and the committee will look into things further.

MELROSE

Plant sale

Melrose Horticultural Association’s annual plant sale is on May 18 in The Wynd from 9am-noon. Proceeds to support Melrose Flower Show which will be held on September 14.

Walks

Ian Skinner led the second of his first-Monday-in-the-month Monastic Walks round the Old Melrose peninsula and was pleased to have 30 people join him. The Thursday Trimontium Walk has emerged from the post-Easter lull and this coming week sees a school from East Lothian and Glenmore Walking Club from Edinburgh visiting.

Coffee morning

A coffee morning will be held in the Corn Exchange on May 18.

Church

Services on May 19 are at Bowden (9.30am) and Melrose (10am and 11am).

Eildon Singers

The spring concert featuring Britten and Schubert last Sunday drew an audience appreciative of the challenge which the choir, under James Young, had undertaken. The ensemble, under Tony Kyme, and soloists Alison Fraser, Mike Towers and Jim Letham provided support.

MINTO

WRI

President Mary Beck welcomed members to the May meeting. She introduced Daina McFarlane, who has been a Zumba instructor for almost three years and takes two classes each week in Hawick. Daina said Latin-inspired Zumba was started around the year 2000 and demonstrated a variety of dances with several members who volunteered to have a go. Competition – an old postcard – 1, Merle Oddy; 2, Enid Cruickshank; 3, Sheila Marshall; 4, Ann Forrest.

Morebattle

Fly fishing

Morebattle fly-fishing competition will be held on May 17 (6.30-8.30pm), with the draw the previous day in the Templehall Hotel. Names to David Gray.

Coffee morning

The Help for Heroes coffee morning raised nearly £1,000, including a raffle for an Easter egg which brought in £500.

Festival week

An open meeting for Festival Week is being held in the village hall on May 22 at 7.30pm.

Newmill

WRI

Newmill and Teviothead WRI’s open night heard the Teviothead Trekkers talk about their 97-mile West Highland Way walk last summer. As a result, efforts to tackle motor neurone disease and Macmillan Cancer Support were boosted by more than £6,500. Competitions – visitors – Scottish souvenir – Jean Umpherston (Appletreehall); Gypsy Creams (which go forward to the spring rally heat) – Muriel Baptie (who also won the hikers’ sandwich). Scottish souvenir – members – 1, Sheila McLaren; 2, Roberta Macmillan; 3, Dorothy Grierson. Anyone wishing to go to Cragside on June 15 should contact Gill.

OXNAM

Library cafe

The next cafe is on May 22 (11am).

Oxnam Owls

Barbara Mellor of Yetholm last week spoke about her translation of the book Resistance, by Agnes Humbert, who pioneered a “cell” in Paris for like-minded women who wanted to do resistance work. She also talked about the author’s time in concentration camps. The next Owls meeting is on June 4 at 7.15pm when Hawick group Quintessence will entertain. This will be an open event with supper and a raffle in aid of the Borders Children’s Charity. Tickets are available from Dot Heard (01896 755690).

Oxnam Quilters

Oxnam Quilters held their biennial quilt exhibition over the May Day bank holiday weekend, attracting 357 visitors. The first prize in the raffle, a quilt made by members of the group, was won by Elaine Miller of Hawick. The “visitors’ choice” of quilt was won by Annette Fraser for her Great Dane Quilt. As a result of the event, the Quilters are donating £500 each to the Margaret Kerr unit at Borders General Hospital and the Linus charity, which makes and provides quilts for sick and deprived children.

OXTON

Plant sale

The annual plant sale and coffee morning staged by Oxton Horticultural Society will be held on May 18 (10am-noon) at the Memorial Hall.

SELKIRK

AGM

Selkirk Chamber of Trade’s AGM will be held in the County Hotel on May 23 at 6pm.

Stichill

WRI

Kathy Wilkie welcomed members and visitors from Broomlands, Earlston, Eckford, Greenlaw, Heiton, Makerstoun, Mellerstain, Morebattle and Yetholm to the May meeting. She then introduced Cathy Burns from the Sainsbury’s Try Team, who gave a cookery demonstration with a barbecue and picnic theme. Her audience was able to sample the food. The raffle was drawn and supper served. On behalf of the visitors, Helen Cessford (Morebattle) expressed her thanks to host members for the evening. Competition – pretty paper plate – visitors – 1, Christine Tucker (Eckford); 2, Helen Donald (Mellerstain); 3, Isabel Cockburn (Yetholm); members – 1, Janette Mackie; 2, June Brown; 3, Kathy Wilkie. Gypsy Creams – 1, Kathy Wilkie; 2, June Brown; 3, Brenda Waring. The next meeting will be held on June 4 at the earlier time of 7pm.

Traquair

Service

The next service in Traquair Kirk will be on May 26 at 10am.

Walkerburn

Service

The May 19 service starts at 10am in Walkerburn Public Hall.

Yetholm

Bari Manushi

This year’s Bari Manushi, former Yetholm and Kelso High school pupil Stephanie Cockburn, 22, lives near Brighton. She said of her appointment: “It’s an honour. It was unexpected. It’s really good and I’m looking forward to meeting new people . I’m also looking forward to the Stob Stanes rideout because I have taken part in it before and it will be nice to lead it.” Proud parents are self-employed painter and decorator Alistair Cockburn and Alison, hospital management personal assistant with NHS Borders.

WRI

Sarah Emmerson gave a talk on The Project Trust at the latest meeting. The next gathering is a guest night to be held at 7.30pm on May 21 in the Wauchope Hall. The speaker will be Dinah Iredale on The Bondagers system. Competition – fridge magnet.

AGM

At the conclusion of the Wauchope Hall AGM, thanks were given to representatives attending from the organisers of village lunches and film nights. They had given reports on their activities over the year and made donations to hall funds. Chairman Jim Cockburn thanked Susan Stewart, Liz Leitch, Moira Breeze, Dot Lee and also the volunteer hall cleaners.

Flodden

For the final meeting of the current season, Yetholm Historical and Archaeological Society made an outing to Flodden Field which lies only some six miles from Yetholm. Author and historian Clive Hallam-Baker, who lives in the nearby village of Branxton and is a leading figure in the Remembering Flodden Project, led a walking tour of the historic site and gave a talk about the battle fought on September 9, 1513. He also showed his collection of replica weapons.

Festival Week

The Festival Week official programme went on sale at the installation night ceremony. Copies can be purchased at the village shop and other village outlets.

Dance

The local church is organising a dance to be held on June 21 in Springwood Hall, Kelso. Music will be provided by the Yoohoo Ceilidh Band. Tickets can be had from the village shop or any church official.

A BUSINESS boss who conned a motor dealership in Galashiels into handing over a £23,000 vehicle has been jailed for a year.

George McLeod fooled sales staff at DS Dalgleish in Melrose Road into believing he had arranged a bank transfer of the cash.

But he hadn’t – and when checks were made, there wasn’t sufficient money in his account to cover the £23,684 cost of the vehicle.

At Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday, the 44-year-old, of Bleachfield Drive, Selkirk, appeared on indictment and pleaded guilty to fraud. .

McLeod, who ran an agricultural plant hire firm, appeared from custody after being remanded at a hearing on March 1.

The court was told that on September 11 and 12, McLeod had pretended to two salesmen that he had arranged a transfer of £23,684 from a Santander bank account in the name of G. McLeod Plant Hire to pay for the vehicle.

The court was also told that McLeod had been allowed to take the vehicle away – but it later transpired he hadn’t arranged for any transfer. Sheriff Kevin Drummond was also told he didn’t have the money to pay.

McLeod said his business was in danger of bankruptcy and admitted he had been foolish and deeply regretted his actions. The jail term was back-dated to March 1.

Kelso has a new provost in the shape of John Bassett, who took over from Fiona Scott, after she stepped down at this week’s community council AGM after four years in the post.

Mr Bassett will also chair community council meetings.

Innerleithen Library Contact Centre opened to the public today (Thursday) after a revamp.

The work, which took around a week to complete, was part of a project to integrate libraries and contact centres. Work on the centres in Jedburgh, Kelso, Duns and Coldstream has already been carried out.

Rugby – Melrose RFC celebrate season of success

Archery

Ettrick Forest Archers

The monthly club clout competition was held at a windy Thirladean on Sunday, and the stand-out performance in tricky conditions came from seven-clouter Elaine Pearson.

Results: Ladies (120yd) – 1, Elaine Pearson 50 hits, 157 score, 7 clouts; 2, Jenna Agate 37, 88, 0.

Gents (180yd) – 1 Adair Anderson 31, 68, 0; 2, Doug Anderson 24, 66, 1; 3, Mike Pearson 17, 47, 0; 4, Wullie Good 22, 41, 0; 5, Michael Liddle 11, 21, 1; 6, Richard Tice 7, 13, 0.

Bowls

Abbotsford

After losing their first game in the Border Bowling League against Melrose, the A team managed a win at home against Ettrick Forest last week, winning 105-66.

The club hosted Summerside in a friendly match on Saturday with the home side winning 74-43.

The Seniors also got their season off to a winning start at home against Kelso last Tuesday, edging a close match by three shots.

Names are still required for the match against Corstorphine this Saturday, and please note the Hat night will commence on Monday, May 20.

BBA

The Borders met West Lothian in the Hamilton Trophy at Newbridge BC on Saturday and despite a bitterly cold wind blowing and a heavy green, the Borders started with a very positive lead.

However, West Lothian fought back to take a seven-shot lead going into the closing stages.

It was becoming a tight match, despite Graeme Forsyth still being the only Border rink in front, and in the last three ends the overall score was changing constantly, with the final scoreline reading Borders 123 West Lothian 124.

Hawick

Hawick’s A team entertained their Newtown counterparts and recorded a very good victory by 81-61.25.

Late call-offs from the Newtown team meant that they had to field three triples rinks, and as a result lost a quarter of their shots.

Top rink for Hawick on the night was the Les Clarkson-skipped rink.

Melrose

Melrose BC represented the Borders in the Top 10 competition against Glaisnock Valley, Ayrshire, on Sunday at Melrose.

Both teams got of to a slow start with the exception of Melrose Triples, who were romping away from the first bowl. After a close game each team had four points which brought it down to shots and Melrose won by 75-60.

The next game, which will also be at Melrose, is against either Dalgety Bay ,West Fife or Marchmount Dumfriesshire on Sunday at 2pm.

Scottish play-offs

Selkirk Bowling Club held the Ladies Scottish Play-offs on Sunday with Borderers qualifying in the Singles and Pairs.

Joyce Dickey (Hawick) and Marie Todd (Newtown) went through in the Singles, with Earlston’s Denise Kellett and Gail Moffatt and Selkirk’s Hazel Scott and Louise Maclennan going through in the Pairs.

They now play in the District Finals to be held at Hawick Bowling Club on Sunday, June 23.

Clays

Braidwood

The first round of the Ian Hume Shield saw Jim Brodie (Denholm) with a score of 35 ex-40 retain the trophy.

Hawick’s Hugh Sadler took second place with 34, followed by Donald Livingstone and Stuart Donaldson on 33.

The second round saw Brodie still on form with a 34 followed by Dick McCallum and John Ross on 31, while third place was jointly held by Jim Watt, Neil Cattanach, Donald Livingston and Stuart Donaldson on 30.

Brodie’s overall score of 69 was enough to win on aggregrate.

Cycling

Kelso Wheelers

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

Eighteen riders took part.

Junior results: 1, O. Onley 33.04pb; 2, B. Simpson 37.11pb; 3, A. Martin 37.12pb.

Senior results: 1, D. Burgher 23.55; 2, M. Burgher 24.35; 3, J. Smith 25.15; 4=, C. Stevenson and R. Ure 25.49; 6, W. Ford 26.21; 7, D. Richardson 26.27; 8, E. Ford 26.31; 9, K. Wilson 26.39; 10, R. Connell 27.33; 11, G. Ford 28.33; 12, G. Easson 29.24; 13, A. Ker 30.40; 14, A. Martin 32.04; 15, Robin Kerr 32.07.

Next week is the 10- mile Club Championship on the Birgham course, sign on before 6.30pm at Woodside Park.

Galashiels CC

It has been a busy week for the club’s racers, with two 10-mile TTs.

Monday results: 1, L. Parry 23.18; 2, I. Pearson 23.56; 3, D. Johnston 24.01; 4, A. Meikle 24.27; 5, S. Mills 24.40; 6, J. Stark 25:18pb; 7, P. McGreal 25.21; 8, S. Lowes 25.41; 9, B. Lowes 25.43; 10, B. Hamilton 26.06; 11, N. Shepard 26.33; 12, C. Tough 26.43; 13, K. Brydon 26.52; 14, S. Purves 27.24; 15, J. Weston 27.32; 16, J. Houston 28.12; 17, K. Veitch 29.00pb; 18, Craig Forsyth 29:19pb; 19, B. Watson 30.29; 20, D. McCudden 30.48pb; 21, G. Murray 33.12pb.

Wednesday 2 up results: 1, G. Robson & R. Laidlaw 21.43; 2, B. Hamilton & B. Lowes 26. 10; 3, C. Forsyth & T. Dawson 30.04; 4, B. Watson & D. McCudden 30.18; S. Lowes & G. Murray 31.26. Individual riders: 1, D. Johnston 23.58; 2, Neil Shepard 25.43; J. Weston 26.49.

Next Wednesday will see a 25-mile TT at the new meeting point of Torwoodlee layby, 7pm start. Entries are now open for the John Fairbairn Memorial 25-mile TT Open to be held on Wednesday, May 29, see Bill Hamilton for entry.

Hawick CC

Thursday night saw the first in the hilly series of time trials .

Results: 1, Kenny Darling 27.10; 2, D. Cavers 27.15; 3, G. Jackson 30.39; 4, C. Telfer 31.07; 5, T. Harkness 32.04; 6, P. Smith 32.07; A. McKerrracher 33.42.

Darling was also in action representing Hawick at the Scottish 10-mile time trial championships with a very credible time of 22.10.

Golf

Galashiels

John Scott (Plumbing & Heating) Seniors Championship Qualifier: A League winner, A. Fulton nett 34 bih; B League winner, G. Turnbull 35 bih.

Championship Qualifier (1): 1, J. Shiel 84 (18) 66; 2, N. Moffat 76 (9) 67; 3=, I. Casson 81 (13) 68, B. Learmonth 80 (12) 68.

Lauder

Bell’s Texas Scramble: 1, I. Scott, J. Lumsden, A. Anderson, J. Stevenson nett 58.8; 2, K. Gillan, D. Cockow, B. Hollands, A. Scott Aiton nett 59; 3, R. Scott, B. Cadogen, G. Dun, Linda Hogarth nett 60.

Ladies’ May Medal: 1, G. Dun 94 (19) 75; 2, H. Lumsden 110 (27) 83; 3, E. Brotherstone 117 (31) 86.

Melrose

Ladies’ Monthly Medal: 1, J. Shirra-Gibb 90 (18) 72; 2, Vivien Hogg 96 (20) 76. Scr, A. Fleming 91.

Seniors Cup/Belhaven Qualifier: 1, C. Creamer 78 (11) 67; 2, K. Grieve 83 (14) 69; 3, G. Wilks 87 (17) 70. Scr, K. Haldane 77. Seniors Cup Winner, G. Wilks.

St Boswells

Ladies’ Club Trophy 3: 1, J. Crombie 92 (30 ) 62; 2, J. Knox 89 (20) 69; 3, J. Reed 103 (31) 72.

Congratulations to Ian Stewart of Gifford Golf Club who scored his first hole in one on the second at St Boswells during the Senior Gents St Boswells v Gifford match last week. The round of drinks was much appreciated by all.

Marjoribanks May Medal and Championship Qualifier (1): 1, C. Rae 75 (11) 64; 2, J. P. Melrose 74 (10) 64; 3, K. Ovens 73 (08) 65.

Marjoribanks Mixed Open: 1, R. Young & J. Knox 59.8; 2, D. Shiel & S. Redfearn 63.8; 3, Mr & Mrs A. Pearson 65 bih. Scr, N. Ashleby & L. Grieve.

Torwoodlee

Tuesday Stroke: 1, J. Graham 77 (12) 65; 2, C. Lees 73 (6) 67 bih; 3, T. MisKelly 88 (21) 67. Scr, S. Fairburn 69 bih.

The Woll

Ladies’ Monthly Medal: 1, M. Turnbull 96 (21) 75; B. Hill 108 (32) 76.

Ladies’ Nine-hole Sweep: 1, M. Innes 36 points; 2, J. McNicol 33.

Gents Open: 1, S. Lunts; 2, B. Pettie; 3, C. Thorburn. Scr, F.Bell.

Homing

Earlston & District

Members sent 208 birds to the D.Renton & Son’s Wetherby race, liberated at 0650 into a south west wind. Results: 1, 4, K. Heppingstall 1695.15; 2, 5, 7, 11, I. Gray 1660.57; 3, 6, 8, 9, W. Gray & Son 1616.46; 10, 15, 16, A. Simpson 1567.93; 12, 13, 14, A. Bain 1517.95; 17, 20, S. Hardie & Sons 1452.49; 18, 19, 21, S. Martin 1375.30.

Galashiels

Eleven members sent 169 pigeons to Wetherby, a distance of 130 miles. Results: 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, Douglas & Spearman 1505.275; 3, G. Whitehead & Son 1472.068; 6, W. Hopewell 1408.651; 8, 9, 10, J. Wyper 1361.871.

Jedburgh

Six members sent 127 pigeons to Wetherby, a distance of 122 miles. Results: 1, 3, 4, A. Agnew & Son 1660.755; 2, 5, 6, Mr & Mrs Simpson 1604.109; 7, F. Taylor 1320.833; 8, 9, 10, T. Wilson 1282.837.

Langholm

The club liberated 103 birds from Lymm over 125 miles in a light south-west wind. Results: 1, 2, D. Nordon 1403.499; 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, R. V. Graham 1378.239; 6, A Henderson 1342.469.

Rugby

Melrose RFC held their annual awards evening in front of a capacity audience at The Greenyards on Saturday evening.

President John Reed was MC for the event, introducing the presenters in his inimitable way. The evening was brought to a close with a special presentation to Craig Chalmers, who has been head coach at the Greenyards for eight years. In his final official duty, before heading south to coach at Oxfordshire club Chinnor RFC, Chalmers thanked all at Melrose for the assistance he has received during his time at the club.

The following awards were presented: Volunteer of the Year – Jim Lauder; Ladies Player of the Year – Gillian Inglis; Young Player of the Year (Joint) – Russell Mackay and Zak Rowlands; Storm Player of the Year – Colin Arthur; Players’ Player of the Year – Grant Runciman; Player of the Year – Bruce Colvine; Special Award for Services to the Club – Craig Chalmers. Our picture shows the prizewinners along with Mr Reed.

A Borders footballer has found himself representing Scotland – despite retiring from the professional ranks almost 20 years ago.

Former Gala and Selkirk coach Ali McCulloch, 49, has been chosen as part of the 22-man squad which will travel to Thailand to represent Scotland in the FISA Seniors World Cup at the beginning of June.

Ali told The Southern: “It was a real surprise when I got the call from the Seniors’ manager Alan McTurk, but he explained that he needed a left-sided defender and several of the squad, who I played with at Cowdenbeath FC, suggested to him that I may still be alive and kicking.

“I am honoured to be part of the outfit which, having played in some warm-up matches, is a crack squad full of ex-pros including Charlie Christie, Stevie Tosh, Jason Dair and Ian McCaldon, headed by McTurk and coach Paul Donnelly.”

A strict age criteria means the 22-man squad will have to include three 38-44 year olds four 45-49 year olds and three players over 50.

“For me, it’s simply a very special opportunity and one that enables me to finish off my career the way it started as a youth.”

Earlston resident Ali signed for Raith Rovers FC at the age of 17 where he spent four happy seasons.

He was capped for Scotland at Under-18 schoolboys and youth with players such as Ian McCall, the McStays, John Robertson, Davie Bowman, Gary Mackay and the like.

“I was capped eight times during the early stages of my career and to get the call as a senior is very special,” he added.

The Seniors event will be held between June 1-10 in Thailand, with the final games held at the national stadium in Bangkok, and Ali and the team are very serious about trying to bring the cup back.

He told us: “The event is mainly for fun but try telling that to the team and manager who are as vocal now as they were when they were being paid to play.”

The squad has teamed up with Maggie’s Cancer Centre and the trip will be funded through support from several fundraising events to cover costs, with any excess going to the charity. They will spend much of their time coaching local kids and distributing football kits donated by willing partners, including Liverpool, Aberdeen and Ross County.

Anyone interested in contributing, whether it’s sponsorship, money or spare kit for the kids, can contact McTurk on alan.mcturkjnr@edf-energy.com or McCulloch on ajmcculloch@btinternet.com

vALE OF lEITHEN3

hERIOT-wATT3

AN entertaining feast of football was served up on the Netherdale 3G on Monday night, writes Dave Ryce.

Vale raced to an early lead when Scott Moffat robbed former Vale player Ricky Burke at the edge of the area to shoot home.

Five minutes later it was two when Chris Inglis headed home.

The Watt pulled a goal back 10 minutes into the second half when Chris Donnelly headed home a Sean Muhsin corner. A deserved equaliser arrived when a goalmouth melee saw substitute Jamie Forsyth get the final touch.

Vale re-established their lead five minutes later through John Ross Kerr. However, the students immediately went upfield and drew level again, with Ryan Stevenson finishing well.

Vale of Leithen: M. Wilson; J. Young (Kieran Dodds 64), D. McAleavy, R. McKenzie, J. Blaikie, C. McAleavy, E. Mearns (D. Thomson 81), Kerr Dodds (F. Ogilvie 81), S. Moffat, J. Ross Kerr, C. Inglis.

The curtain comes down on the East of Scotland footballing season this weekend, writes John Slorance.

Another term is about to finish and as far as some Border clubs are concerned this is good news as they have had more lows than highs in the months that have passed.

Vale of Leithen end their Premier Division campaign with an away clash with Gretna 2008. This will be the Innerleithen outfit’s third game of the week as they have already crossed swords with Heriot-Watt University on Monday (see report below), as well as Tynecastle on Wednesday.

In the First Division, Peebles Rovers are also scheduled for a last-gasp flurry of action. Firstly, they take on a Hawick Royal Albert side that has failed to record a single home win this season.

It is also a season in which Hawick have been hit with 19 red cards, as well as fielding more than 50 players.

And on Monday night, (7.30pm) Peebles face high-flying Eyemouth United. Both matches are to take place at Whitstone Park.

Selkirk, who have improved their league position of late in pulling off two wins, bid to get further points when lining up against Ormiston at Yarrow Park.

Gala Fairydean travel to face Coldstream at Home Park, while Kelso do battle with Easthouses Lily away from home.

Kelso United1

Ormiston2

UNITED suffered their second defeat in four days when they were beaten by a 10-man Ormiston team on Saturday, writes George Riley.

Disappointed manager Prof Blakie commented: “We have thrown away six points this week as Ormiston and Selkirk are teams we should be beating, but we never raised our game against either of them.”

Ormiston broke the deadlock after 11 minutes when the ball broke to full back Chris Cornhill at the left edge of the box and the defender put his 20yd effort beyond United keeper Johnny Cowe.

United’s first sight of goal came on the quarter-hour mark when a corner from the left by Liam Wallace found Steven Tait unmarked at the back post, but the midfielder’s header went wide.

Ormiston had the ball in the net again when Conor Ramage ran down the middle and crossed for Brian McEwan, but the speedy wide man was adjudged to be offside by referee Paul Crosbie.

David Simmonds in the visitors’ goal then had to look lively to stop shots from Calum McClure and Des Burnett.

It was then Cowe’s turn to be called upon to make a double save – first from Richard Weir and then Kyle Auld.

Ormiston were down to 10 men on the hour when Jordan Young was shown his second yellow card by referee Crosbie, however, the East Lothian winger seemed to give the whistler some verbal comments and the red was flashed again. A free kick from 40yds by Graeme Gillie was missed by everybody in the box and just went wide.

Midway through the half United equalised. A good ball through the middle by McClure was collected by Liam Wallace, who passed wide to Burnett and the striker swept the ball back into the path of Wallace to knock into the net.

United pressed for the next five minutes and Gary McNulty almost put the home side in front when his header hit the post. This was swiftly followed by a Burnett drive which was well saved by ex-United man Simmonds.

The game was decided in the last minute of the match.Following a corner the ball broke to substitute Ian Adams, whose shot was parried by Cowe and fellow substitute Darren Carter was first to react and drive the ball home.

Kelso United: J. Cowe, J. McCutcheon (S. Angus 35), G. Mabon (L. Hill 72), D. McNulty, G. McNulty, S. Tait, C. McClure, G. Gillie, D. Burnett, L. Wallace, J. Lauder.

HAWICK entertained Clackmannan County 2nd XI in their third match of their East League Division 7 campaign.

The Teries bowled first and got off to a great start with Pierce Solley taking his first wicket before there was a run on the board.

Solley then took his second wicket to reduce the visitors to 13 for two.

Cameos from Alangir and Bryant-Nicholls got Clackmannan to a respectable position at 49 for 4.

However, in a collapse in which Craig MacDougall, Gary and Ronan Alexander picked up two wickets each, and Bruce and Phil MacTaggart took five catches between them, Clackmannan were bowled out for 57.

Euan Hair and Gary Alexander opened the batting and got off to a steady start before the latter fell for 10.

Hair was then run out for 18, before Solley and Phil MacTaggart knocked off the runs required with no real scares as Hawick picked up their second successive home victory.

Gala got their East League Division Two campaign back on track when they recorded a seven wicket win over Clackmannan County at Alloa.

After rain on Friday and Saturday morning the match was only able to go ahead thanks to the excellent artificial wicket.

Having chosen to bowl first, Kris Mein made early inroads removing Sultan in the first over. This brought Mehboob to the crease and the fireworks started with the Clackmannan No.3 swinging from the hip at almost every delivery, rattling the score up to 40 in the seventh over before Mein bowled Taylor, then Mehboob went for one big hit too many and skied Mein to Stevie Halls at mid-wicket.

The Gala bowlers then regained a measure of control and Rishi Jain had Anderson caught at mid-off by Jack Halls in an excellent seven over spell. Rasul was content to play the anchor role while Hefer pushed the score along, but when Dinesh Tharanga had Hefer caught at slip by Graeme Ormiston wickets fell at regular intervals, before a late flourish from Rasul took the home score up to 138.

For the visitors Mein picked up four for 25, Tharanga 3 for 24, Ormiston 2 for 13 and special mention for a great seven over spell from Jain who took a wicket and went for just eight.

In reply Gala made a steady start before Stevie Halls misjudged a second run with the score on 17.

Boland and Irvine took the score to 33 when Boland gave a catch to backward point, but Irvine and Millar came together and looked in total control as the visitors chased down the home target.

Gala suffered their second run out with the score on 95 though as Millar drove to mid-off and set off for the single but a direct hit saw him short of his ground.

Neil Crooks then came to the crease and he and Irvine had some uncomfortable moments before Irvine passed 50 and Gala went onto reach their target with ten overs to spare, with Irvine eventually finishing unbeaten on 63.

MELROSE Ladies retained the Glasgow Women’s trophy for the fourth consecutive year and swept away the opposition with some excellent rugby.

Despite the wind and the rain they displayed superior skill levels throughout with fluent handling and a brand of expansive sevens rugby unmatched by most of the other sides. Melrose had a fairly comfortable early afternoon despite the physicality of the opposition, winning all their pool matches as they overcame Strathclyde Uni (45-0) and Glasgow Uni (35-5) with Cartha succumbing in the semi-final by 52-0.

Saving the best for last they produced an outstanding, clinical display of attack and determined defensive pressure to embarrass a fancied Scottish Select team of capped Internationals 40-0 in the final.

Melrose team: Lauren Harris, Gillian Inglis, Nicola Halfpenny, Lana Skeldon, Isla Craigie, Megan Maciver, Lyndsey Gilchrist, Chloe Rollie, Diane Durham, Natasha Rivera.

MELROSE full-back, Fraser Thomson has won the final RBS Try of the Month award for season 2012/13.

The April award was for his score against Ayr in the RBS Cup final on Saturday , April 20, at Murrayfield. Thomson touched down in the 85th minute of the match to bring his side level in a very tense extra-time encounter. Melrose however, lost 28-25 in the end.

More on this story at www.thesouthernreporter.co.uk

Selkirk kept up their 100 per cent record in East Division Five on Saturday with a three wicket victory over Boroughmuir II at Philiphaugh.

Some steady bowling kept the visitors at bay (113 all out) before skipper John Everitt, above, stepped in with a 50 to set the Souters on their way.

The football legend that is Sir Alex Ferguson may just have announced his retirement, writes Fiona Scott.

But he certainly isn’t ready to hunt out his pipe and slippers quite yet.

Continuing his ties with Kelso Racecourse, the former Man United boss is sponsoring the Ladies Only Charity Flat Race, for the second successive year, at the final meeting of the season – Ladies Day – on Sunday, May 26.

Unfortunately, Sir Alex will not be present at the meeting himself as he has a European Managers meeting that day but, knowing his interest in racing, it is likely he will be keeping a keen eye on progress.

The race is a fundraiser for the ‘House that Jack Built’, a project headed by Jack Berry, and is designed to raise money for a rehabilitation centre for injured jockeys. It was won last year by Jo Foster and trainer Jim Goldie, who were presented their prizes by the great man himself.

Course managing director Richard Landale said: “We are delighted that Sir Alex has shown his support in sponsoring the charity race for this incredibly important cause, and hope to raise as much money as possible.”

More on this story at www.thesouthernreporter.co.uk

Selkirk produced a Jekyll and Hyde sevens showing at Philiphaugh – fortunately for the Souters the former character shone in the final.

A 27-7 triumph was one of their most convincing victories over Melrose in recent years, owing to a rampant performance throughout the 20 minutes.

However, they had been sluggish against Falkirk in the first round, needed a last-gasp try to beat Glasgow Hawks in the quarters and squeezed past Gala in the semis.

But their previous poor form disappeared against the Kings of the Sevens leaders Melrose, who were simply torn apart.

That was mainly down to Selkirk’s efforts, but also Rose’s semi-final against Watsonians that went to extra time and sucked the energy from their squad.

The win was the homesters’ fifth in six years at Selkirk Sevens, and their 13th in total.

Selkirk skipper Gavin Craig said: “We saved our best for the last game.

“With all respect to Falkirk, we found it tougher than we thought it would be against Falkirk, and used up our get out of jail free card against Hawks.

“We always knew Gala would be tough, but managed to get through.

“We hadn’t beaten Melrose all season but got off to a great start and made sure we gave them no time when they had the ball because that is when they are at their best.

“It was a great win for the supporters. Hearing the support, and the silver band playing, really inspires you.”

Angus Duckett opened the scoring for Selkirk in the final, then player of the tournament Darren Clapperton produced the perfect chip kick to dive over himself for Selkirk’s second try.

The Souters were utterly rampant and added to their lead when a trademark Craig break was finished off by Callum McColm to make it 17-0.

Melrose replied through Graeme Dodds just before half-time to give themselves a chance.

However, the destination of the cup was decided just after the break when Craig scored Selkirk’s fourth try to open up a 15-point lead.

And when Callum Anderson dropped the ball as he strode over the line, the hosts knew it was their day.

And as the music of the silver band echoed around Philiphaugh, the skilful Rory Banks danced his way over the line to send the faithful wild.

Melrose captain Graeme Dodds, whose side still hold a four-point lead at the top of the Kings table, said: “The guys were absolutely done after the semi-final.

“It is always hard playing Selkirk on home turf but we made silly mistakes to give them two early tries and we could not get back into it.

“But we are still in a good position for Jed-Forest Sevens next week.”

Before the final, the moment of the tournament was an audacious pass behind his back by Banks to set up Duckett for the winning score against Hawks.

Craig said afterwards that it was the type of pass you try if 30-0 up, not when on the verge of an early exit in front of an expectant home support.

Melrose had their own lucky escape in the quarter finals, when Andrew Nagle came back to haunt his home town team Jed-Forest with a last second touchdown.

The highlight of the first round was the opening match, as Gala and Heriot’s were locked at 19-all at full-time before the Maroons grabbed the ‘golden’ try through Craig Keddie.

Melrose Sevens semi-finalists Ayr chalked up one of the biggest wins in the Kings of the Sevens series so far with a 55-0 hammering of Berwick in round one, but were then on the receiving end of a 35-0 thumping by Watsonians.

Are you looking for an alternative to the SUV mainstream? Well, the only option is Mitsubishi’s ASX.

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wooler

At their weekly Primestock Sale last Wednesday John Swan Ltd had forward and sold 708 hoggs and 405 ewes.

Larger numbers on show, extra buyers present, increase in returns.

Leading prices per head:- Tex.x:- £118 Ewart, £116.50p Crunklaw, £114 Black Heddon, £110 Ladykirk, £108.50p Low Middleton, £108, £105.50p Hoppen Hall, £105 Ladykirk, Suff.x:- £108.50p Ewart, £108 Newstead, Bel.x :- £107 Ewart, £103 Chillingham Home Farm, Mule :- £105 Ladykirk, Bf :- £100.50p Birchwood Hall, Chv :- £98.50p Ewart.

Leading prices per kilo:- Bel.x :- 243.2p Ewart, 224.4p, 217.1p Chillingham Home Farm, Chev :- 233.3p, 231.7p, 229.1p Ewart, Tex.x :- 219.2p Black Heddon, 213.3p Shotton, 213p Hoppen Hall, 211.4p Barmoor Red House, Bf :- 218.5p, 216.7p Birchwood Hall, 212.2p Ewart, Suff.x 213.6p Ewart.

Strong show of ewes, with an increase in returns.

Leading prices:- Suff:- £119 Eildon Cottage, £111 Kypie, Tex.x:- £112 Ewart, £109 Kypie, £103 Roseden, £102, £100 Crunklaw, £100 Branxton Moor, Sfx:- £102.50, £100 Low Middleton, £100 Lilburn Estates, Mule:- £100 Ladykirk, £89.50 South Lyham, £89 Low Middleton, Chm:- £96 South Falaknowe, £88.50, £87 Bewick Folly, Bfl:- £89 Roseden, Chv:- £74.50 Bewick Folly, Sourhope, Bf:- £64 Pop Inn, £58 Ewart, £55 South Falaknowe.

Rams:- Tex:- £123, £111, £106.50 Branxton Moor, £115 Low Middleton, £112 West Longridge.

st boswells

On Monday John Swan Ltd sold 112 clean cattle, 69 OTM cattle,

1,715 old season lambs, 44 new season lambs and 751 ewes.

Bullocks (40) averaged 232.4p per kg and sold to 267p (+1.4p on the week), heifers (63) averaged 226.8p per kg and sold to 260p (+2.8p on the week), nine young bulls averaged 193.5p per kg and sold to 218p (n/c on the week) and 69 beef type OTM cattle averaged 154.7p per kg and sold to 1566p (+0.7p on the week) .

Old season SQQ lambs averaged 206.1p per kg (-15.1p on week) and sold to £127, new season lambs averaged 275.5p and sold to £134, ewes averaged £53.59, and sold to £127 and heavy ewes £72.45, light ewes £38.43.

Principal prices per kg: Kirkton 2.67 M/s R Pringle, Bee Edge 2.60 M/s WTS Forsyth and Sons, Kirkton 2.60 John Penny and Sons, Sourhope 2.51 Michael Malone of Edinburgh Ltd, Bee Edge 2.51 M/s Foley Brothers, Kirkton 2.51 M/s R and G Moor, Lurdenlaw 2.49 M/s J Gilmour and Co Ltd, Sourhope 2.48 Michael Malone of Edinburgh Ltd, Bee Edge 2.48 M/s T.A Shaw, Kirkton 2.48 John Penny and Sons, Sourhope 2.46 Michael Malone of Edinburgh Ltd, Traprain 2.46 M/s Foley Brothers, Hollybush 2.44 M/s R and G Moor, Lurdenlaw 2.43 M/s R and G Moor and Michael Malone of Edinburgh Ltd, Upper Nisbet 2.43 M/s WTS Forsyth and Sons.

Principal prices per head: Upper Huntlywood £1954.15, £1906.50, Lurdenlaw £1683.15, Upper Huntlywood £1638, The Craggs £1634.15, Upper Nisbet £1626.75.

Cows per head: Cockburn £1566.25; South Ord £1498.50; Burnhouse Mains £1475.15; Stoneypath £1452.50, £1443.75; Hyndsidehill £1400; Stobswood £1381.60; Thirlestane £1327.65; Marigold £1286.50; Saughland £1283.25; Wantonwalls £1256.70; Corsbie £1245.60; Marigold £1238.20; Wester Middleton £1205.55.

Cows per kg: Saughland 1.97; Stoneypath 1.95; South Ord 1.85; Shidlaw, Burnhouse Mains 1.81; Cockburn 1.79; Saughland, Wantonwalls 1.77; South Ord, Stoneypath, Hyndsidehill 1.75; Corsbie, Pathhead, Chillingham Home Farm 1.73.

Bulls: Mailingsland £1367.40; Stoneypath £1257.75 (1.95p)

Lambs per head: Tex.x;- £134, £127 Thornington, £126 Middlethird and Lochside. Suff.x;- £133, £128 Smailholm Mains.

Lambs per kg: Tex.x;- 297.6p Lochside, 290p Thornington. Suff.x;- 289.1p, 284.4p Smailholm Mains.

Hoggs per head: Suf;- £127, £120 Spotsmains. Suff.x;- £126 Bonjedward Mill, £124 Sunwick (J Orr). Tex.x;- £124 Roxburgh Mill and Roundabouts, £118 Boghall (Leeming) and Lyne. Rom;- £118, £110 Towford. Chv;- £104, Thorlieshope, £101 Langhope. BF;- £104 Elmscleugh, £98 Hartside and Elmscleugh. ML;- £111 Whitmuir. GF;- £96 Swinnie, £93 Lyne.

Hoggs per kg: Tex.x;- 238.2p Bedrule, 237.5p The Craggs, 235.6p Bedrule. Suff.x;- 235.6p Bonjedward Mill, 233.7p Seafield. Chv;- 222.7p Thorlieshope, 219.2p Monksford, 217.1p Towford. Chv.x;- 214.3p Larriston. GF;- 208.7p Swinnie. BF;- 207.3p Larriston, 204.9p Swinnie. Bel;- 205.3p Kilnknowe.

Cast Ewes: Tex;- £127, £109 Elmscleugh, £109 Roundabouts. Suff.x;- £91 Rumbletonrig and West Mains, L, £89 Nesbithill. BFL;- £81 Hartside, £77 Linkshead. GF;- £75 Roxburgh Mill, Lochside, Middlethird, West Mains, L and Earlston Mains. HB;- £73 Bonjedward Mill. Chv M;- £71 Boon. Rom;- £67 Towford. Beu;- £66 Craighouse.

WALKS around Abbotsford are the latest subject of the council’s paths booklets series.

The publication covers six routes, of varying lengths, around the home of Sir Walter Scott that all, at one time, fell within the policies.

The sheriff and writer, credited with starting tourism in Scotland, designed the estate grounds. And the walks have been developed in partnership with the Abbotsford Trust to show off the house, its garden and wider landscape.

The hikes range from a short two-kilometre stroll around the grounds of the house, to a 10km route taking in Darnick, Rhymer’s Glen and Cauldshiels Loch.

Other walks include the River Tweed, Tweedbank and Gunknowe Loch. Councillor Ron Smith, executive member for planning and environment, welcomed the booklet.

He said: “Abbotsford is famous as the home of Sir Walter Scott, but less well known is that the estate is one of the most significant designed landscapes in Scotland. Scott designed and laid out the estate himself between 1811 and 1825.

“The Paths around Abbotsford booklet is a great new resource for local and visiting walkers, which will help them explore Scott’s historic estate.”

The booklet is available to buy for £2 from the Abbotsford Visitor Centre or you can download it for free from Scottish Borders Council’s website www.scotborders.org.uk