Brora Rangers1

Vale of Leithen0

Vale of Leithen were sent reeling out of the Scottish Cup on Saturday after having four players sent off at Dudgeon Park.

The game sparked in to life just after the half hour mark when Vale captain James Young elbowed Zander Sutherland in the face. Without any hesitation referee Craig Sim showed Young a red.

The second red was a result of two yellows in the space of a 54 second period on 41 minutes. John Ross Kerr make a late challenge on Martin Maclean which initially saw Sim produce a yellow. However, when play resumed Kerr ran to chase down the ball before taking away Andrew Greig’s legs in a dangerous second challenge. Sim had no option but to show a second yellow and reduce the visitors to nine before the break.

Although depleted in numbers, the game plan of the visitors was clear – get the draw and a replay at their home ground. For 89 minutes that almost worked. However, further dismissals hindered the visitors in what will surely be a costly day for the Vale in disciplinary fines.

Keith Lough was sent off on 82 minutes for a foul on Gavin Morrison and shortly after that Vale manager Chic McAleavy was sent to the stand for foul and abusive language.

Almost a minute later the game was sent close to abandonment when sub Scott Gormley was also shown red for dissent.

Now facing a seven man outfit Brora scored in the dying stages. The ball fell to Ben Bruce whose goal-bound effort was deflected to an unmarked Steven Mackay who rifled in from four yards out to seal the win.

GLASGOW HAWKS38

GALA38

AFTER building up a small lead at Anniesland, George Graham’s men had to settle for three points instead of all five.

Hawks were better in the early exchanges and, following tries from James Gormley, Ally Maclay and Finlay Gillies, two converted by Scott Wight, were 19-3 ahead on the half hour. Ewan Scott had slotted an earlier penalty for Gala and added another two going into the last 10 minutes of the half. Hawks prop Steven Findlay saw yellow and Gala made the advantage count with a Ewan McQuillin try, converted by Scott. Half-time: 19–16.

Tries from Andy McLean, converted by Scott, and Opeta Palepoi gave Gala a nine- point cushion. But Ross Miller (try) kept the hosts in touch. Gala added a try through Chris Weir, converted by Scott who also added a penalty, but Hawks responded with tries from Jon Welsh and Haddon McPherson, both converted by Wight.

Hawick24

Melrose53

Just as they had done two weeks ago at Ayr, Melrose stepped up in the second half against Hawick to run out comfortable winners.

John Dalziel’s men turned round a 24-19 deficit to triumph 53-24 and remain unbeaten at the top of the table, although most Melrose supporters, not to mention coaches, present at the game would probably prefer that their team didn’t wait until the second period to mount a counter attack.

President Mike Bleasdale said: “Hawick didn’t make it easy in a thrilling match that wasn’t won until deep into the second half, with both teams playing with a verve belying the old stigma that Border derbies are always dull, turgid affairs.

“A lively first half from the home side probably perturbed our coaches enough to keep them focused again this week and also showed Hawick’s capability to win matches this season.”

The hosts did indeed provide some scintillating rugby. Following a short-range penalty from Melrose centre Joe Helps, the Greens were rewarded for some ambitious play with fine tries finished by Scott McLeod and James Johnstone, both converted by Neil Renwick.

Two more penalties from Helps, who also converted a try from Damien Hoyland, however, put the Greenyards outfit ahead for the first time in the game on 27 minutes.

Helps and Renwick exchanged penalties before Hawick scored the final touchdown of the half when Johnstone began and finished a great handling move to go in near the posts. Renwick converted for a 24-19 interval lead.

The game turned in the first 10 minutes of the second half with Rory Hutton being yellow-carded for not releasing. Melrose posted 10 points during the time he was off, Graeme Dodds driving over from the resultant scrum and Helps converting and adding a penalty.

Helps moved the lead to eight points with his sixth penalty before converting Mark Robertson’s fine try. As the clock ran down, the bonus point was finally claimed when Allan Dodds finished off a sweeping move, also converted by Helps.

The ‘Rose pack took control for the final minutes and, following a collapsed scrum on the Hawick line, referee Lloyd Linton awarded a penalty try. Helps converted to finish with a personal tally of 28 points.

Hawick Linden15

Langholm24

EVEN calling in the Army couldn’t help Linden to victory against Langholm.

The Royal Blues’ Craig Mitchell had recruited from among his regimental colleagues, with Nathan Mather, Samisoni Rakabu and Josataki Wakolo making their Linden debuts.

The two Fijians were straight into the action with some storming runs and big hits, while not to be outdone, Mather got in on the act with the first try after 12 minutes, Stuart Renwick adding the extras.

After the home team’s great start the Milntown men began to gain more of the ball. Niall Cubbon stroked over a penalty goal before sneaking through a gap to go under the sticks and add the conversion.

Renwick slotted a simple penalty to draw the scores level, but just before the break a similar effort from Cubbon put the visitors 13-10 ahead at the interval.

Just after the restart Langholm’s Stuart Graham was binned for killing the ball and a quick tap by Rakabu sent supporting skipper Shaun Fairbairn over and once more the home team were ahead.

Langholm struck back with fervour. First Cubbon edged his team ahead with a penalty before constant pressure on the Linden line saw the home defence run out of numbers and Stuart Graham squeezed over in the corner.

With time running out, Cubbon kicked his fourth penalty to deny Linden even a losing bonus point which they probably deserved.

Dundee HSFP21

Kelso12

KELSO travelled to Mayfield in unbeaten form, but also knew that they would need something special to cause an upset.

And they showed signs that they had every intention of doing so in the opening stages. However, failure to make early pressure count allowed the Taysiders back into the game.

Two penalties from Bryce Hastie got the ball rolling for Dundee, followed by two tries from Callum Bowie, converted by Hastie. Kelso grabbed late tries through Frankie Robson and David Gobby, with Corey Venus converting one.

MELROSE’S Sam Chalmers has been banned for two years from any involvement in rugby after admitting taking a banned substance.

The 19-year-old son of Scottish international Craig Chalmers tested positive at a Scotland U20 training session in May. Analysis found he had taken two anabolic steroids, banned by the World Anti-Doping Authority, that were present in a product bought over the internet. Chalmers said: “I totally regret my actions. I was stupid, naive and desperate. I am embarrassed by the whole situation and feel I have let myself, family and club down.”

Peebles21

Boroughmuir39

FOLLOWING their crushing victory over Stewart’s Melville the previous week Peebles struggled against a very motivated Boroughmuir team.

Peebles coach and former Muir man Peter Wright said: “Boroughmuir were very physical, particularly around the breakdown, and took all the chances they had.”

Boroughmuir set the tone from the off, David Reekie, kicking the first three points. Peebles stuck to the task though and equalised just minutes later through a Greg Raeburn penalty.

Playing at a fast and furious pace Muir replied almost immediately with a try by Will Kay, Reekie added the extra points and once again the hosts responded with a Raeburn penalty to close the gap.

Excellent teamwork provided the base for Boroughmuir’s next try which was well taken by Alex Cox.

A third Raeburn penalty kept Peebles in touch though.

Again the visitors replied with an unconverted try by Jordan Edmunds to make the half-time score 20-9 .

Five minutes after the restart, effective footwork from the Peebles backs led to an unconverted try by Calum Scott.

A quick double try score from Muir however put the game out of sight. Kay and Cox both touched down with Reekie converting both. Another unconverted try, from Craig Marshall completed the scoring for the visitors.

Credit to Peebles who continued to play right up to the end with Donald Anderson getting a final touch down after a fine line-break by Neil Hogarth. Raeburn added the extra points.

Melrose60

Stirling County10

PLAYING their first home game of the season Melrose Ladies ran out comfortable winners against their visitors from Stirling.

Playing some impressive rugby the ladies were determined to atone for the previous week’s defeat and they did so in style, scoring 10 tries in the process.

Leading by example captain Megan Maciver and her fellow forward Lisa Maria Young caught the eye on several occasions with some great runs. In addition Nicola Halfpenny controlled the game well from half-back whilst fellow internationalist Gillian Inglis and full back Chloe Rollie showed great pace with ball in hand.

Selkirk Youth Club19

Berwick Colts17

DUE to injuries Youth Club were playing with a depleted squad but started off in great fashion.

Fergus Hitchcock took a great line-out ball before beating a couple of players to score a try after just five minutes.

Youth Club stayed on the front foot and a great up and under from Darren Knox split the colts defence allowing Matthew Brass to take the ball in the air and run unopposed between the posts.

Knox kicked the conversion before Berwick got back into the game with a try on the stroke of half to make it 12-5.

Berwick started the second half the stronger team scoring two tries, with the latter being converted, to make the score 12-17 with five minutes left. Continued strong running in midfield however saw Lewis Martin rewarded with a try converted by Knox in the last minute to edge the victory for the hosts.

Selkirk45

Stewart’s Melville20

A second successive bonus point win ensured Selkirk got their season back on track at Philiphaugh on Saturday.

Even so, head coach Alistair Dickson believes the Souters still have a lot of ground to make up in their RBS National League campaign.

“We’ve definitely turned a corner,” he said after the victory, “but no-one’s kidding themselves about the size of the challenge we now face.

“Consistency is going to be the key factor over the next few weeks, and the players know they’ve got to build on these two wins if the team is going to be able to mount a serious challenge to the league leaders.”

All the early pressure came from the visitors, however, and when John Coutts intercepted home skipper Ross Nixon’s pass in the fourth minute, the ex-Hawick player was able to sprint towards the posts before giving a scoring pass to fellow centre David Hampton. Nick McCashin, slotted a 21st minute penalty to put the city side 8-0 ahead.

Selkirk regrouped, and put their first points on the board when Craig and James Bett both made inroads into the visitors’ defence and Lee Kibble’s angled run saw the centre smash past two defenders to touch down. Josh Welsh’s conversion cut the deficit to a single point.

The hosts took the lead on the half-hour mark when prop Cata Graur took a tap penalty to himself and barrelled over the line for a try.

The same player found himself on the scoresheet once again after Ewan MacDougall and Matt Kissick had combined to send wing Darren Clapperton racing for the line.

Although stopped, Selkirk’s pack kept up the pressure and Graur was on hand to touch down. Welsh converted.

On the stroke of half time Selkirk stuck a decisive blow when Fraser Harkness, showing his versatility when playing in the unfamiliar position of scrum half, raced 70 metres to score a superb solo try.

Welsh’s conversion made the interval score Selkirk 28 Stewart’s Melville FP 8.

After the break Selkirk kept up the pressure and a Welsh penalty extended Selkirk’s lead before a two-try scoring burst by Selkirk open side, Angus Duckett, had the home supporters in raptures.

Welsh kept up his 100 per cent goal-kicking record to add the conversions and put the Philiphaugh men out of sight.

To their credit Stewart’s Melville continued to press hard right up to the final whistle, their endeavour being rewarded with tries by Scott Brewster and David Hampton, the former being converted by Sam Rowlands.

Selkirk: J. Welsh; S. Hendrie, L. Kibble, R. Nixon, D. Clapperton; G. Craig, F. Harkness; G. Patterson, J. Bett, C. Graur, R. Fluhler, E. Turner, E. MacDougall, A. Duckett, M. Kissick. Subs: G. Turner, A. Lambie, R. Wilson, S. Tough.

KELSO UNITED take on Easthouses Lily in an East of Scotland League first division match at Woodside Park on Saturday.

The Tweedsiders have went off the boil of late and talking of his sides current situation, Kelso manager Prof Blaikie told TheSouthern: “We were just diabolical in our last game against Berwick Rangers Reserves.

“It was the performance from hell and performances like this don’t mirror what I am attempting to achieve with Kelso. I feel I have a good enough squad but some of the players need to have a reality check as they are not playing as well as they can do.

“It’s my job to get this sorted out though, I am the manager and the buck stops with me and I accept this. We will have to improve a lot if we are to get a result against Easthouses on Saturday but hopefully we can do this.”

United are without suspended goalkeeper Elliot Turnbull, Damien McInulty and Paul Dumma are also missing.

Peebles Rovers are also involved in league business in making a trip to the sea side to tangle with Eyemouth United at Warner Park.

Glancing ahead to the match, Peebles team boss John O’Hara said: “Eyemouth is a difficult place to get a result as it’s a tight pitch, plus Eyemouth are always inclined to play well at home, so we will have to work hard to get something out of the match.

“Our squad has been stretched to the limit in recent games due to injuries and players being on holiday and unfortunately it’s the same for Saturday. We have guys returning but Jason Darling is still out and he is a big miss.

“However, we will get over all of this and although it may bring about some headaches it will be great to select from a full squad.”

Hawick Royal Albert welcome Ronald Fleming back from suspension for their home meeting with Berwick Rangers Reserves.

Due to having James Young, John Kerr, Scott Gormley and Eddie Mearns all suspended, Vale of Leithen have a depleted squad for their away clash with Stirling University in the Lowland League.

In other Lowland League encounters, Selkirk and Gala Fairydean both hit the road in facing Dalbeattie Star and Threave Rovers respectively.

blainslie

Cheese and wine

The village hall is holding its cheese and wine evening, featuring the ‘Great Blainslie Bake- Off’ on Saturday (September 21). Doors open at 7pm. Entry on the door £5 (adults), £3 (9-16 years) and free (age 8 and under). Open competition – chocolate cake. Age 8 and under – decorated biscuits. All welcome.

bowden

WRI guest night

A good turn-out of members and guests enjoyed Jennifer Thompson’s talk, helped by two excellent models, on making theatrical costumes. The competition, a handmade mask, was won by guest Joan Ramskir and member Ann Stewart.

Caddonfoot

Choir

Members of the African Children’s Choir attended the morning service in Caddonfoot Church on Sunday following their concert in Trinity Church on the previous evening. They joined Caddonfoot Youth at their weekly get-together.

The Kirk Session is due to meet this week in the church.

CRAILING

Craft Fair

To be held in the Lothian Hall on Sunday (September 22), 11am until 3pm. There will be demonstrations of wood turning and a display by the local stick dressing group. Various craft people will be displaying and selling their goods. All proceeds in aid of hall funds. Tea/coffee and home baking.

earlston

Lighting

Earlston 2000 (lighting) has been awarded £7,938 for the upgrade of its lights to LEDs. This will allow the renewal of all existing lighting with LEDs which, as well as being eco friendly, will mean huge savings on power consumption.

Church

The church will be open today from 11am for quiet reflection with a short service at noon.

Sunday’s service will be at 10.15am, conducted by Rev Julie Woods. On Wednesday (September 25) there will be a short evening service at 7pm. Sunday, September 29, is the Harvest Service at 10.15am in the church, followed by a soup lunch in the church hall. Entry by donation at the door.

Concert

On Saturday, September 28, Melrose Opera will perform in the church at 7pm. This is a memorial to the late Sheila Turnbull and entry is by donation, with proceeds going to The Borders Macmillan Cancer Centre. Refreshments will be served after the concert.

Auld Earlston

The group is holding a film show in the church hall on September 24, at 7pm. Entrance £2. There will also be a raffle to raise funds, still photographs of Auld Earlston on view, and a display by the Thomas the Rhymer group.

eccles

Flower show

The annual show was held on Saturday. Entries were good and the judges on the day – Mr Gerald Sandwith, Mrs Ann Girvan and Mrs Irene Letham – had the difficult job of selecting the winners of each class.

Trophy Winners – Eccles Village Hall Cup (most points overall) Rosemary Scott; Joe White Cup (most points in flower section) Jean Wood; Eccles Garden Services Cup (best entry in Flower Section) Jean Wood; Margaret White Memorial Cup (best single rose) Wilma Craig; Craig Trophy (most points in industrial dection) Rosemary Scott; Eccles Market Garden Trophy (most points in vegetable section) Trevor Crisp; Ritchie Cup (best entry in vegetable section) Robin Grieve; Susan White Trophy (best brambles) Trevor Crisp; Jubilee Cup 5-11 years (animal made from vegetables) Lexi Craig; Best entry in industrial section, Wilma Craig; Potato Print Picture (7 years and under) Max Ford; Potato Print Picture (8-12 years) Dougal Coates; Decorated Paper Plate (7 years and under) Ainsley Gray; Decorated Paper Plate (8-12 years) Josie Dickman. The village hall committee would like to thank the sponsors –Olivers Transport, G & J Waddell, Ian and Lucille Forsyth, Anna-Marie MacPherson, Allan and Helen Brookes, Norah McDougall.

Ettrickbridge

Drama

Soddin’ Flodden will be performed in the Village Hall at 7.30pm, on Friday, September 27. Tickets are available from Linda Elmitt on 01750 52257, priced £8. Concessions, £6.

galashiels

Lunch club

Lapwing Lunch Club will be held on Thursday, September 26. If you, or someone you know, would benefit from a hot meal and some weekly friendship please get in touch. New members and volunteers welcome. Transport can be arranged. For details call 01835 862565.

Probus

The group met at the Kingsknowes Hotel on September 12, chaired by president, Sandy Frame. Three new members attended.

Alasdair Hutton, ex-Convenor of Scottish Borders Council and BBC broadcaster gave a talk on the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The vote of thanks was given by president Sandy Frame.

The next meeting is on September 26, at 10am, and will be a talk on Up Helly Aa by Tavish Scott MSP.

Glendouglas

Whist drive

The first of the hall’s monthly whist drives was well attended. The winners were: 1st lady Christine Rodger, 2 Jenny Blakie, 3 Phylis Ponton, and the booby went to Charlie Donaldson. 1st man Selby Wilson, 2 Mamie Hogg, 3 was Ralph Ramkin and the booby went to John Currie. The highest overall went to Dorothy Corrie. The next whist drive will be held on October 14, at 7.30pm. Forthcoming events include a new regular monthly coffee evening, which started last Wednesday. Pop in for a cuppa and a chat. The old time and ceilidh dancing classes start tonight (September 19) at 8pm, with live music and tutor. More details from the Community Hotline 01835 863604.

GREENLAW

Beetle drive

A fun night for all the family will be held in the Fairbairn Hall on Thursday, September 26, starting at 6.30pm, in aid of Greenlaw Church. It will include prizes, raffle and a cup of tea.

hawick

Rotary

President Scott Elliot took the quiz team to Langholm for a round of the Rotary quiz, along with Bob Kellett who was the scorer. The Hawick team of Ron Smith, Ron Sutherland, Gus Neilson and Jim Walker were narrowly defeated 22-18 in a closely fought contest.

Archie Purves, Jock Thorburn and Andrew Suddon visited Kelso Rotary Club.

Coffee morning

There is a change of venue for Hawick’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning on Friday, September 27, from 10am-noon. After years at Bruce Motors in Commercial Road, they are moving to Trinity Church Hall.

The group thank the team at Bruce Motors for all they have done over the years.

Anyone wishing to join the committee or help at fundraising events would be very welcome.”

Bridge club

Results for Monday, September 9: N/S – 1 V Johnstone and M Miller, 2 R Oates and S West, 3 P Gilligan and M Millar; E/W – 1 S. White amd J Urquhart, 2 I Wyze and P Simpson, 3 L and T Witten. The bridge club will continue to meet on Monday nights until and including September 23 and then the winter season will start on Tuesday, October 1, in the Tower Mill at 6.45pm. All new players welcome. For more details visit www.bridgewebs.com/hawick

Innerleithen

Harvest thanksgiving

A service will be held in Innerleithen Church at 11.30am on Sunday (September 22).

jedburgh

Lunch club

Jedburgh Lunch Club will be held on Thursday, September 26. If you, or someone you know, would benefit from a hot meal and some weekly friendship please get in touch. New members and volunteers welcome. Transport can be arranged. Call 01835 862565.

Reunion

A school reunion is taking place for all 50-year-olds born in 1963, who attended any of the Jedburgh schools. It will take place in the Carters Rest on October 19, at6.30pm for 7pm. The evening will include a meal and disco for £15 per head. Contact Eileen Raeburn (Redpath) on 01835 863726.

kelso

Embroidery

Kelso Embroiderers’ Guild will meet on Tuesday (September 24) at 7pm in Abbey Row Centre. There will be a very brief AGM followed by Carol Evans, previous owner of the Melrose Fabric shop, who will give a talk entitled How it all began. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Rineke Sangster on 01573 229414.

Bridge club

September 11, teams of four – 1 Lesley Dick and Lynda Douglas, and Sheena McPherson and Sheila Urquhart ; 2 John and Marian Miller, and Jean Henry and Myra Thomson; 3 Val Fairbairn and Jean Bunyan, and Alison Darling and Evelyn Erskine ; 4 David Harris-Burland and Ruth Mackay, and Bob Stevenson and Annie Mitchell.

September 12, Millennium Trophy 2 – N/S: 1 Jean McLaren and Ken Ross, 2 Rena Stewart and Beth Stark, 3 John Urquhart & Janet Kyle; E/W: 1 Lynda Douglas and Lesley Dick, 2 Gerry Eglington and Jon Bridger, 3 Shirley Armstrong and Moira Ayton.

Concert

The One Acchord ladies barber shop choir and the Swinton Brass Monkeys are putting on a concert in aid of the restorations at St Aidan’s Church, Morebattle.

The concert will take place in St Andrew’s Church, Belmont Place, Kelso, on Wednesday, September 25, at 7.30pm. Entry by donation. Refreshments afterwards.

Langholm

Common Riding

At the meeting of the Common Riding Committee in the Crown Hotel, chairman Roger Maxwell congratulated Cornet Alasdair Cavers on what had been an excellent day.

Treasurer Paul Davidson said the total income to date was £43,119 and expenditure £37,168, but there were bills of around £1,000 still to pay. Gate and car park receipts were £9,590 and £4,467 respectively. Field tickets bought prior to the day amounted to £950 compared to £333 last year.

Councillor Denis Male had informed the chairman that all the charges for this year, such as road closures and street cleaning, would be met by the council.

Geoffrey Ireland said he wished to thank helpers Dennis Barker, Stuart Fletcher and his partner Anne for their assistance organising the heather besom parade.

The chairman confirmed that the athletic games had been very successful. He did comment that a lot of small tents were appearing on the field which may become a problem and should be monitored in future.

The issue of gazebos was also discussed as there had been around 50 erected in total by the Common Riding day itself. The question as to whether or not there should be a charge for this and how it should be monitored was discussed, and will be considered at the next meeting.

The vice-chairman said the organisation of the stances had been good and the stallholders had all worked together well. Considerable rubbish had been left behind and stallholders should be reminded to remove this when being granted their permits.

Following problems, the chairman said both crossings from the jubilee bridge and on the finishing straightshould be manned next year and this will be arranged.

The chairman said he had received a call from the police sergeant to say the stewarding had been good at the Common Riding with the exception at the crying of the second fair when he thought there was a problem for the emblems getting through the crowd, and the matter will be addressed at the next meeting which is on Monday, November 4.

Probus Club

President Jack Rae welcomed 26 members to the new session in the Eskdale Hotel. There was a minute’s silence to remember club member Billy Elliot, who died unexpectedly after an operation at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle. The president read a note from Billy’s widow Betty, who thanked the club for their kind thoughts and for the fellowship enjoyed by Billy during his 17 years of membership. He will be much missed.

The president also noted the absence of Tom Wood, who broke his leg again, and wished him a speedy recovery.

At the next meeting Arthur Bell will speak on The Demise of the Langholm Mills.

Presentation

A painting of Ruler of the World winning the Epsom Derby, by local artist Philip Gunn, was presented to Cornet Alasdair Cavers. It was presented by Molly Henderson on behalf the Ewes Valley residents.

lauder

WRI

The group held their opening meeting on September 10, a slideshow about New Zealand by Stewart Swinton, assisted by Walter Brotherston. Annette Holton gave the vote of thanks. Competitions – autumn photograph: 1 Joanne Watson, 2 Wendy Paterson, 3 Joyce Black. Dropped scones – 1 Joanne Watson, 2 Wendy Paterson, 3 Mary Sked.

Next meeting on October 8 in Lauder Primary School at 7.45pm (new start time for October only). Talk on Caldwell’s ice-cream. Competition – dessert in wine glass, prettiest sundae dish.

Historical society

Hamish Reid will give an illustrated talk about the renovations at Abbotsford House on Wednesday at 7.30pm in Lauder Youth Trust Hall. Further details from Joan Stevens 01578 722559.

Flower show

This year’s show was a great success, with a large turnout of entries, including the reintroduction of the industrial section.

The new venue of Lauder Primary School was deemed a success. Dr Cath Cormie officially opened the show and presented the cups and prizes. Ruby Wilkinson presented Dr Cormie with a bouquet in appreciation.

Prize winners – Mrs J Lawrie Cup (most points in veg) Jim Mercer; Mr J Lawrie Cup (most points in cut flowers) Ivor Jones; Geo. Brotherston Cup (best onions in show) Ivor Jones; Dowager Countess of Lauderdale Cup (most outstanding exhibit in flowers – chrysanthemums) John Davis; Geo Anderson Rose Bowl (most points in potatoes) Jim Mercer; A&J Rutherford Rose Bowl (most points overall – cut flowers and veg) Ivor Jones; William Show Cup (most points for fruit) Kate Hankey; Colour Box Trophy (best gladioli spike) Bill Sowman; McGregor Rose Bowl (bbest exhibiti in class 83) Jane Johnston; Best Exhibit in Children’s section (vegetable animal) Syvie Young; Floral Art Trophy, Jane Johnston

Industrial section– The Roan Cup (most points in ind section) Jane Johnston; Wm Hardie prize runner-up, Kathleen Thomson; Mr and Mrs S Leach prize for best exhibit in show (homemade piece of jewellery – bracelet) Jane Johnston.

Presbytry council

Melrose and Peebles Presbyterial Council will hold their autumn rally in Lauder church on Monday (September 23) at 2.15pm. The speaker will be Rev Donald Scott, chaplain to Polmont Young Offenders Institute. All Guild members welcome.

Legerwood

Sunday worship

The final of Melrose and Peebles Presbytery’s four country evening worship services was held at Legerwood Church on Sunday night.

The offering and dedication were led by the Rev. Nicholson, with the offering given for the Presbytery’s Nepal project.

Lindean

Rural

At the September meeting of the WRI, president Mrs Margaret Milne, welcomed Mr Jake Wheelans who gave a fascinating insight into the history and commemorations for Flodden 500. Competition winners were: 1Valerie Mayo, 2 Margaret Ingles, 3 Sandra Todd. Next meeting October 3.

Melrose

Church activities

Today, Trimontium Walk, 1.30pm; Saturday (September 21) Abbey Consort sings Vivaldi, Monteviot, 7.30pm, £10, including wine. Tel: 01835 850208 beforehand; Sunday services (September 22), Bowden 9.30am, Melrose 11am (baptism); Wednesday (September 22), midweek service and lunch; Melrose Music Society supper on Friday, September 27, at 6pm (please book) and thereafter Steven Osborne will entertain on piano.

Stitched Up

Last week’s visit to the Scottish Parliament to see the Tapestry of Scotland was a highlight of the year. Trimontium was represented by a full panel of the Newstead helmet in profile, with allusions to all aspects of Roman Scotland. There was also a depiction of Old Melrose, with St Cuthbert occupying the place of prominence. From Stow to Smailholm and beyond, all the Borderers who had their needle fingers involved are to be congratulated.

morebattle

Flower show

The annual flower show will be held in the village hall on Saturday (September 21). Doors open 3pm. Entries should be handed in to Helen Cessford by today.

Concert

The One Acchord ladies barber shop choir and the Swinton Brass Monkeys are putting on a concert in aid of the restorations at St Aidan’s Church, Morebattle. The concert will take place in St Andrew’s Church, Belmont Place, Kelso, on Wednesday, September 25, at 7:30pm. Entry by donation. Refreshments afterwards.

Carpet bowls

Senior citizens’ club meets every Monday and Tuesday afternoon at 1.30pm in Abbey Row. Next session begins Monday, October 7. New members welcome.

oxnam

Cafe

The next library cafe is on Wednesday, September 25.

Peebles

Tea dance

A tea dance will be held tomorrow (September 20), and thereafter fortnightly in the Ex-Serviceman’s Club, School Brae, from 2-4pm, Includes line and sequence dancing.

Everyone welcome from beginners to experienced, or come along to watch and listen. Cost is £2, which includes live music, tea and biscuits. Transport can be provided.Telephone 01835 862565.

st boswells

Drama club

The club’s AGM will be held at 7.30pm tomorrow (September 20) in the St Boswells branch of The Royal British Legion. Without a sizable and active membership and committee the club’s future and local productions are uncertain so new members and supporters are urgently sought and will be made most welcome. The AGM will be followed by a general Noggin ‘n’ Natter so that newcomers can meet current members/friends and find out more about the club.

Traquair

Harvest Thanksgiving

A service will be held in Traquair Kirk at 10am on Sunday 22 September.

Walkerburn

Church

The next service in Walkerburn Public Hall will be on Sunday, September 29 at 10am.

YARROWFORD

Coffee morning

The village hall is taking part in the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan Cancer Care on September 27. The hall will be open from 10am to 4pm. Come along and give your support

Yetholm

Dog walkers warning

As part of the preparations for Yetholm Show on October 5, a stock free corral has been constructed in the Haugh. The enclosing fence is electric. Dog walkers should take care that their pets do not stray into the danger zone over the next few weeks.

Indoor bowling

The new season has started with meetings taking place in Wauchope Hall on Mondays and Fridays between 2pm and4.30pm and again at 7pm to 9.30pm. All welcome.Call 01573 420497 for details.

Flower festival

The recent festival in the Kirk was successful and popular. Apart from the floral displays there were sections devoted to the memory of the Battle of Flodden. These included display boards telling the story of the battle, which were loaned by the Flodden Eco museum.Grateful thanks go to all who contributed.

Lunches

The new season of village lunches starts today (September 19) in the Wauchope Hall from noon. They will be held every two months. All profits will go to village or local organisations. The defibrillator appeal will benefit from today’s event.

Coffee morning

Yetholm’s contribution to the Macmillan biggest coffee morning will take place at 10.30am on Saturday, September 28, in the Wauchope Hall. Various stalls will also be in operation. Donations welcome.

Thanks

Those involved in raising m
oney for the village defibrillators wish to thank the organisers of the recent Yetholm Gymkhana for a fantastic donation of £800. This means the set up target has now been reached.There are ongoing costs, so fundraising will continue.

KELSO UNITED take on Easthouses Lily in an East of Scotland League first division match at Woodside Park on Saturday.

The Tweedsiders have gone off the boil of late and, according to manager Prof Blaikie, are in dire need of a “reality check”.

He told The Southern: “We were just diabolical in our last game. It was the performance from hell, and performances like this don’t mirror what I am attempting to achieve. It’s my job to get this sorted out though – the buck stops with me.

“We will have to improve a lot if we are to get a result against Easthouses on Saturday, but hopefully we can do this.”

United are without suspended goalkeeper Elliot Turnbull. Damien McInulty and Paul Dumma are also missing.

Peebles Rovers face a seaside trip to tangle with Eyemouth United, while Hawick Royal Albert welcome Ronald Fleming back from suspension for their home meeting with Berwick Rangers Reserves.

In the Lowland League, Vale of Leithen, Selkirk and Gala Fairydean all hit the road, taking on Stirling University, Dalbeattie Star and Threave Rovers respectively.

For a full weekend preview, go to www.thesouthernreporter.co.uk.

A carer lost his temper and smashed a pane of glass in his living room, Selkirk Sheriff Court, pictured, heard on Tuesday.

Fifty-year-old Alan Thomson left his employment as a joiner to become carer for his wife of 11-years, who suffers from deteriorating ill-health.

Thomson, who had little sleep prior to the offence, was said to be “very embarrassed” by his behaviour.

He admitted behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at his Caddon Court home in Innerleithen on Sunday and damaging property there.

Following an argument, Thomson smashed a pane of glass in the living room door and as his wife cleared up the mess, he took the shovel from her, saying: “Yes, you can get the police.

“I’m going to show you how I can really smash up the house.”

In reply to caution, Thomson told officers: “Fair cop.”

Thomson’s solicitor said his client had given up his work as a joiner to care for his wife as her health deteriorated.

“He can’t remember when he last had uninterrupted sleep,” said the lawyer.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre deferred sentence for six months – until March 19 – at Peebles Sheriff Court, suggesting Thomson “explore the possibility of some help”.

A drunken man who breached his bail after a stag party asked to be remanded, claiming he was likely to reoffend.

Police found Greg Whiteley at a house in Melrose Court, Hawick – in breach of a bail condition not to go there – after he was seen lying drunk in a nearby close.

The 28-year-old, of Weensland Road, Hawick, admitted committing the offence on Saturday.

Defending, Alison Marshall said her client ended up at the address after drinking at a stag do.

“He asks that you consider remanding him as he fears that, if at liberty on bail, he will breach it again,” Miss Marshall told Sheriff Derrick McIntyre. “He says that, if he drinks, he will end up going there,” she added.

The sheriff told Whiteley: “You have asked to be remanded, but I don’t know if you appreciate what it entails, and I am not prepared to do that.”

He released the accused on bail, with a special condition not to drink any alcohol, and deferred sentence for reports until October 18 at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

EMBEZZLEMENT ALLEGATION

A couple appeared in private accused of embezzling a six-figure sum.

Brian Shackleton, 59, and his 57-year-old wife, Sandra, made no plea or declaration when they appeared on petition charged with embezzlement at S.B. & Co, Charlesfield Industrial Estate, St Boswells.

The crime is alleged to have happened between April 2007 and August 2012.

The couple, from Newtown St Boswells, were both released on bail.

TEENAGER IN CUSTODY

A teenager who breached a community payback order has been remanded in custody for two weeks.

Nineteen-year-old George Wright, of Hall Street, Walkerburn, admitted the breach when he appeared from custody.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre refused bail and deferred sentence for a criminal justice social work report until October 2 at Peebles Sheriff Court.

NURSE ASSAULT CHARGE

A joiner who denies assaulting a nurse at Borders General Hospital will stand trial on December 17.

Thomas Muir appeared from custody and denied assaulting a staff nurse and security staff on June 9. The 30-year-old, of Ladyshaw Drive, Selkirk, also pleaded not guilty to being drunk and incapable in Galashiels High Street, and behaving in a threatening or abusive manner in Sime Place, Galashiels.

An intermediate hearing was set for November 18 and Muir bailed.

FRIGHTENED ON REMAND

A 16-year-old who breached a bail curfew was warned that any further lapse could cost him his liberty.

“You have had a taste of what awaits you if you don’t co-operate,” Sheriff Derrick McIntyre warned accused Jamie Mitchell.

The teenager, of Albert Place, Galashiels, appeared from custody with a badly-bruised eye.

“He received that from another inmate and has found his period on remand a very frightening and very upsetting experience,” said defence solicitor Iain Burke.

He said Mitchell was keen to pursue an army career.

Mitchell admitted failing to comply with a bail curfew at Albert Place, Galashiels, on August 22 and at Forest Hill, Galashiels, on August 24.

Sentence was deferred until October 7 for Children’s Panel advice and Mitchell released on bail, with a 7pm-7am curfew.

SENTENCE DEFERRED

A 16-year-old who admitted a series of road traffic offences had sentence deferred until October 14 for advice from the Children’s Panel.

Jordan Simpson, of Weensland Road, Hawick, appeared from custody and pleaded guilty to taking away a car without the owner’s consent at Leishman Place, Hawick, on August 22, and failing to stop and give his name and address.

He admitted using a car without insurance and while disqualified, failing to stop for police, and driving dangerously at Leishman Place, Princes Street and Dickson Street, Hawick, on August 23.

Simpson also pleaded guilty to breaching a bail curfew.

He further admitted assaulting a police officer and failing to provide a breath specimen at Hawick police station.

Simpson was released on bail with a 6.30pm-8am curfew and a condition not to drink alcohol.

“If you don’t co-operate, you will find yourself back on remand,” warned Sheriff Derrick McIntyre.

FOUR-YEAR DRIVING BAN

A MAN who thought he would be fine to drive the afternoon after a boozy lads’ night out was banned from driving for four year and fined £1,000.

Graham Paton, 38, of Braemar Avenue, Dunblane, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol on July 25 between Greenlaw High Street and the A697 at Thirlestane.

The court heard how the accused had been out in Newcastle the night before and was travelling north when he hit a parked car in Greenlaw.

This brought Paton to the attention of police who stopped him near Lauder. A breath test showed him to have 77mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath, more than twice the permitted limit of 35mg.

BREACHED HIS ASBO

Breaching his ASBO (antisocial behaviour order) by contacting his former girlfriend led to a Peebles offender being sent straight back to custody by Sheriff Derek McIntyre.

Appearing from the cells, David Stanton, 28, of Kingsland Square, admitted breaching the conditions of the order imposed on him on May 15 by phoning and texting Lisa Moffat on September 10.

Graham Fraser, prosecuting, said that Ms Moffat, to whom the accused has three children, contacted police and told them that he had been bothering her, asking to get back in touch.

Although Stanton had rung and texted his ex, defence solicitor Mat Patrick said the 28-year-old claimed it was her who got in contact first.

Mr Patrick told the hearing it was police officers’ opinion that there was nothing overtly worrying in the text message sent by Stanton, other than them being unwanted. Calling for reports, Sheriff McIntyre deferred sentence until October 2 and remanded Stanton in custody.

DO NOT DRINK – COURT

A MAN accused of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner last weekend has been ordered not to drink alcohol.

Michael Ledgerwood was released on bail with an 8pm-8am curfew, with the booze-ban condition.

The 30-year-old, of Hillview, Coldstream, denied attempting to gain entry to premises at Market Square and Hillview, both in the town, and punching a car driver, on Saturday. He also pleaded not guilty to shouting and swearing, and struggling with police officers.

Ledgerwood will stand trial at Duns Sheriff Court on January 15, with an intermediate hearing on December 18.

VEHICLE SEIZED

A driver who failed to provide a breath specimen has had the vehicle she was driving seized.

Karen Campbell, 52, of Station Gardens, Cornhill, admitted failing to provide two breath specimens at Kelso police station on Friday.

A Crown motion for the vehicle she was driving to be seized was granted.

Campbell, who was banned from driving meantime, had sentence deferred for reports until October 23 at Duns Sheriff Court.

Solicitor Ross Dow said his client had spent four nights in custody, adding: “She felt the police were heavy handed, and that is why she failed to comply.”

Shouted and swore

A 22-year-old who shouted and swore in Eyemouth was released on bail with a condition not to enter the town’s Queens Road, or to drink alcohol.

Christopher Ross, of Marine Square, Eyemouth, appeared from custody and admitted behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at Harbour Road and Queens Road in the town on Saturday.

Sentence was deferred for reports until October 23 at Duns Sheriff Court.

SLAPPED PARTNER

“Stepping over the line” by hitting his partner landed a Hawick man with a £200 fine at Duns Sheriff Court last Wednesday.

Sixty-four-year-old Brian Singleton pleaded guilty to assaulting his partner the previous day at the couple’s home in Morrison Place.

The court heard how the couple had been drinking during the afternoon and the accused had fallen asleep when the woman asked if he wanted anything to eat.

An argument then ensued and Singleton slapped her on the face, causing her to stumble and her glasses to fall off.

When interviewed by police, Singleton described hs partner as a “pisshead” who was drunk and argumentative, adding that she slapped him, so he shoved her away. But shortly after the 64-year-old, who works for a local baking firm, admitted he may have slapped her.

Mat Patrick, defending, said Singleton should have walked away, but “stepped over the line”.

HEARTS OF LIDDESDALE

I was contacted by the secretary of Hearts of Liddesdale Football Club, who was concerned about the team’s future.

As they play so close to the border, they have players from both England and Scotland in their squad. Unfortunately international clearance rules mean they must choose one country to play in, and this has since led to a shortage of senior players.

Hearts were originally formed in 1880 under the name of Newcastleton FC, and since then they have played a vital part of the history of the region. We cannot afford to lose them and that is why I have written to the sports ministers in both Holyrood and Westminster to try and find a solution.

I know the club has a lot of local fans and I am hopeful we can keep them playing.

TAPESTRY OF SCOTLAND

The Great Tapestry of Scotland is a fantastic piece of work, and I am very proud that some of the panels were made by stitchers here in the Borders.

After the tapestry has finished touring it will need a permanent home, and I can think of no better place than in Hawick. With its unique links to the textiles industry, it would be the ideal place to have it, which is why I have urged Creative Scotland to consider housing it there permanently.

If it is placed in the Borders, I have no doubt that it will prove to be a great tourist attraction, and I look forward to making the case for the town over the coming weeks.

LINE OUTAGE

With many areas of the Borders having poor mobile connectivity, landlines can be very important for keeping in contact.

When a phoneline in the Southdean area was accidently severed by a tractor it caused 30 houses to lose connection and they were understandably upset when after several days nothing had been done to fix it.

Despite BT being aware of the problem, these properties were left without a phone or internet connection for nearly a week. I wrote to BT to urge them to fix the problem urgently and to know the anger their inaction had caused. Thankfully it 
was soon fixed, but too often people in rural areas lose out 
in these situations and we should not have to stand for it.

COUNTRYSIDE AWARDS

Nominations recently opened for the ninth annual Countryside Alliance Awards.

They were created to promote and celebrate the best of rural enterprise in the UK, and aim to recognise those who are the best at what they do.

Here in the Borders we have some of the best local produce and local businesses, and it is important that we show our appreciation. That is why I would encourage anyone who knows a business that it worthy of national recognition to go online and nominate someone today.

Yetholm Sinfonia joins Hawick’s Roxburgh Singers and the Berwick Arts Choir to commemorate the Flodden experience in Wooler Parish Church at 7.30 pm on September 28.

Yorkshire soprano Wendy Goodson sings Mozart’s Esultate Jubilate, and the orchestra will perform Beethoven’s rare ‘the Knights Ballet’.

The second half consists of Mozart’s great Requiem Mass for the dead, his very last work. This moving work features four soloists; Wendy Goodson, Carole Clarke alto, Michael Towers tenor, and Peter Cannell bass.

Tickets cost £8 (students free), on sale at Hector Innes Photography in Kelso, and in Coldstream at Moffat’s Newsagent, or telephone 01573 420 279.

PEEBLES Community Action Network are putting on a free event on Saturday to encourage local people to become more self-sustainable and cut down on their food waste.

The family fun day is also aimed at gathering local people’s ideas on how Peebles can become more sustainable.

The event runs from 10am to 3pm and has lots of fun activities for children, as well as cooking demonstrations and tastings, food waste information and advice on gardening and growing your own food.

A lunch of homemade soup and bread will be on sale, with all proceeds going to the local scout group, who will be assisting with the event.

Local families are also being sought on the day to take part in a challenge to reduce food waste.

The ferocious battle for Gallipoli could be the centre of Kelso’s commemorations marking the centenary of the start of the First World War.

Earlier this year, First Minister Alex Salmond announced a five-year programme to mark significant events from throughout the conflict and beyond, including commemorating the centenary of major battles such as Gallipoli.

Addressing Kelso Community Council last week, Provost John Bassett said the heavy losses suffered by the King’s Own Scottish Borderers on the infamous Turkish peninsula made it an appropriate anniversary to highlight.

“The 4th (Border) Battalion was the local pals’ battalionwith a lot of men drawn from the Kelso area and considering the losses it sustained at Gallipoli in 1915, it would be a poignant focal point in 2015 for any local efforts marking the centenary,” he told us this week.

He added: “But I still need to consult the local Royal British Legion and if anyone has any other ideas, then I’d be delighted to hear from them.”

Ian Martin, from the KOSB Museum and Archives at Berwick, says Gallipoli was significant for the regiment, with the battle honour subsequently borne on the regimental colours.

“For the 1st Battalion, Gallipoli Day was celebrated annually on April 25, to commemorate the landing on ‘Y’ Beach, and the heroic rearguard action which enabled the safe withdrawal of the landing force,” explained Mr Martin.

“For the two territorial battalions, 4th and 5th KOSB, recruited from the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway, their only major engagement, near Achi Baba Nullah on July 12 and 13, in 1915, resulted in losses which the regimental historian described as resembling a ‘second Flodden....scarcely a household but mourned a son’.

Langholm High Street’s historic Crown Hotel is on sale for around £300,000.

The black and white, 
B-listed, 19th-century coaching inn has 10 bedrooms, two bars and a five-room flat.