It has emerged that almost three weeks of transport chaos was caused for parents of children at Ednam school due to minor vehicle offences.

Just days after local community interest transport firm Back ‘n’ Forth started bus services on three primary school and one high school route in the Kelso area for the new school term, the contracts were suspended.

Parents were not given any warning or explanation.

Quizzed at the end of August, Scottish Borders Council admitted that some “final paperwork issues” needed to be resolved.

But what followed was a rollcall of transport chaos, with a mixture of community bus services and taxis called in to ferry pupils.

It sparked complaints from Ednam school parents, who were not informed about the situation and only found out there were problems when Back ‘n’ Forth’s minibuses failed to appear on school mornings when children were already standing by the roadside.

There were also concerns about whether all the substitute drivers being used had enhanced disclosures, the lack of booster seats for some small children, worries about seatbelts being too high on youngsters, and small children being placed in seats facing airbags.

There were some mornings when pupils were left waiting for second uplifts by busy taxis.

However, pressed again on Monday about why the paperwork issue was taking so long to resolve, the local authority finally revealed police involvement.

A spokesperson for SBC told us the council would not comment further.

But added: “We are concerned to hear about any individual problems and we would be happy to discuss these with affected families and the school, and apologise for any disruption caused while this matter is ongoing.”

But then, just a day later, the local authority confirmed that Back ‘n’ Forth had been reinstated and its buses were back on three of its routes, including the KO3 Ednam 
service.

A Police Scotland spokesman said that officers carrying out regular roadside vehicle inspections had, in recent weeks, stopped and routinely checked vehicles being used on a school run.

“A number of relatively-minor offences were detected and suitable advice given to the company owner,” said the spokesman.

James Shannly, managing director of Back ‘n’ Forth, said he was delighted to be back in operation.

He told us: “We’re very pleased and have taken on board all the comments made.

“It’s just good getting back to helping out the local community, which is what we’re all about.”

Selkirk hotel proprietor Will Haegeland is urging fellow licensees to attend a special conference to ensure they have their say on key licensing issues.

The Volunteer Hall in Galashiels will be the venue for the November 12 event, chaired by Selkirkshire Scottish Borders councillor Michelle Ballantyne.

Licensees and other interested parties will get the opportunity to find out more about a range of topics, including how drinking culture is affecting licensed premises and the impact of alcohol nationally and locally, at the conference organised by the Scottish Borders Local Licensing Forum.

County Hotel owner Mr Haegeland said: “As licensees, we must have a say in the legislative process. It is us that will have to live with the consequences of any inadequate or flawed regulations.

“As the legislation is currently coming up for review, we need to come together and discuss what works well, what doesn’t and what changes we need to see being implemented.”

A UNION official has hit out at criticism from John Lamont MSP about over £64,000 of council employee time being spent working for unions, writes Adam Drummond.

The ‘facility time arrangement’ costs were revealed in a Freedom of Information request.

Mr Lamont said: “When the amount of money being spent on facility time is so high there is no doubt in my mind that these arrangements need to be looked at. We cannot continue to spend money on staff that trade unions can well afford.”

However, Tony Trench, regional Unite organiser, said: “From Unite’s point of view we have spent a lot of time working with the council, including on wage constraints in place due to constraints on council spending imposed by Westminster.

“A lot of time has also been spent on equal pay claims in the last year, so this time is not being wasted.”

He added: “The other major issue we’re working extremely closely alongside the council on is health and safety, and we are well aware the Tories’ attitude to that is that it’s just red tape.

“But the council and ourselves want to make sure our members, and their employees, go home to their families at night.”

A council spokesman added: “We are legally obliged, under employment legislation, to consult and negotiate with the trades unions who are recognised under the appropriate agreements.

“The trades unions representatives carry out their union duties as employees of the council and we release them from duties as and when they are required to carry out their consultation and negotiation roles.

“This system enables the council to meet its legal obligations and promotes a positive industrial relations climate.”

SELKIRK CRICKET CLUB have much to celebrate following their second successive promotion in the East of Scotland leagues.

Members will be toasting that triumph – and much more – at their annual dinner in the Philiphaugh clubrooms on October 5 (7.30pm).

Tickets are £15, and anyone wishing to go should add their names to the list on the noticeboard at the club.

IN THE first round of the Yarrowford Shield, three golfers, who have been fairly quiet so far, made a welcome return to good form.

The best of the trio was Rodney Pow whose net 62 was a mixture of power and precision, flavoured with a pinch of good fortune.


Results

1, R. Pow nett 62; 2, L. McAllister 65; 3, N. Roxburgh 65; 4, J. Rae 66.

Twos: There were two twos at the nominated holes (7th and 15th) and they came from Rodney and Les.

This week’s competition is the Border Safeguard Quaich.

Ladies

Playing for the penultimate monthly medal, with a place up for grabs to play for the gold medal, a large turnout of ladies took to The Hill. Having been one of the most consistent performers of the season, Marjorie Rae finally struck the jackpot, carding one of her best rounds with a faultless 82 (18) 64 to win the silver.

In the bronze division, it was June Craig who triumphed with one of her best rounds of the season, 90 (23) 67. Jen Robertson was the only winner of the twos.

The ladies would like to thank Heatherlie Garage for sponsorship of the medal.

With the end of the season fast approaching, the ladies played out their last Thursday night 18 holes with a Stableford.

Adding to her tremendous run of wins, it was new member Jen Robertson who took the honours again, returning 37 points on a difficult scoring night due to wind and rain.

Berwick New Holland Bandits 48 Rye House Silver Ski Rockets 44

PREMIER LEAGUE

It was a case of finishing the official season with a flourish for the Berwick Bandits at home to the Rye House Rockets last night at Shielfield Park before next week’s final event of the Bandit’s season - the Ricky Ashworth Benefit meeting.

A good initial burst from Oliver Allen on bend one in the opening race was negated efficiently by Sebastian Alden and guest Hugh Skidmore to take up an easy 5-1 for the Bandits.

A second 5-1 was stopped in it’s tracks when Kasper Lykke forced his way hard under the whole field and pushed himself into second place which he held to the end, but James McBain fell on bend three leaving the way for a shared 3-3 taking he score to 8-4.

Matthew Wethers won another three points in Heat Three’s share of the spoils ahead of the impressive Tyson Nelson and Jason Bunyan, whilst in the fourth Anders Mellgren soared round the outside of Nicki Barrett off the second bend on the home 4-2 which moved the score on to 15-9.

Allen made a tremendous pass round Skidmore off bend two on the third lap to take up the lead which held despite some good comeback from the Berwick guest in another shared 3-3, but a tight first bend in Heat Six blocked the progress of Mellgren allowing Alden and Bellego away for a 5-1 extending the lead to 23-13 allowing Nelson to race as a tactical ride in Heat Seven.

And what a race he made of it with his partner Bunyan out in front the determined Aussie raced hard behind Bellego and going into the last lap wound some amazing power on to catch the Frenchman and overhaul him on the third bend and take a magnificent second place for four points in as 1-7 to Rye House which narrowed the gap t0 24-20.

Aspgren took a good win in Heat Eight and defended the three points well from Alden in second while in Heat Nine Wethers made a superb sweep round Mellgren to again take the lead and form a home 4-2 with Skidmore in third to move the score on to 31-25.

5-1s were then exchanged in Heats 10 and 11 holding the gap at six, 37-31, as Bunyan shot from last to first off bend two in Heat 12 to easily take the winners three over Skidmore in another shared 3-3 result preserving the six point lead.

Allen took Heat 13 expertly and defended a hard racing Alden from behind in the 2-4 which narrowed the gap again as the match tightened up 42-38, and with a 3-3 in the 14th the final result went right down to the last race with Rye House needing a 1-5 to draw the meeting.

In that last race Nelson soared round Alden to lead but with Allen stuck at the rear the win was in the Bandits’ bag with much relief to the home support.

Team manager Ian Rae was happy to go out of the official business on a high, saying: “It still proved to be a hard match for us but at least we pulled a win out of the bag to end the year on a win.

“Now it’s Ricky Ashworth all the way and we’re working solidly now to make his benefit meeting here next Saturday night to be the success he deserves. This is the meeting not to miss and there’s no more till March 2014 – so come along next week and join the party for Ricky.”

THE council last year wrote off almost 20 times more non-domestic rate debt than in 2011/12.

In addition, more than three times as much domestic council tax debt was cancelled.

The figures, of £135,300 and £538,500 respectively, were revealed in a report which went before members of Scottish Borders Council’s executive committee on Tuesday morning. In total, debts of £1,147,800 were written off by the local authority in 2012/13.

At the meeting, David Robertson, the council’s chief financial officer, also warned members that a further £1.1million of outstanding “sundry debt” alone had been assessed as “high risk” and may need to be written off in the future.

However, Mr Robertson emphasised that increased efforts to track down debtors had resulted in a significant fall in sundry debt outstanding for over 90 days – now 15 per cent below the Scottish average.

Statistics contained within the report revealed that more than £330,000 of the council tax was wiped off the slate due to insolvency, up from £60,000 in 2011/12.

For business rate debt it was a similar story, with £122,000 scratched in 2012/13 due to insolvency, up from just £3,000 the previous year.

The majority of the sundry debt written off last year was owed for environment and infrastructure services.

PART of Galashiels’ one-way system will be turned in the opposite direction when work starts on rerouting Stirling Street ahead of the new transport interchange being built.

From October 14 drivers will access Park Street and Channel Street the opposite way from normal.

During the work, buses will operate from stances in Stirling Street and Market Street. Limited local access will be permitted in both.

Ahead of the rerouting work through the bus station, the public car parks in Stirling Street were closed for good on Monday. Ladhope Vale car park will be shut until 2015. In addition to the new road layout and a public space, new car parking will be created on the bus station site. Work on the interchange building starts early next year.

Councillor Gordon Edgar, executive member for roads and infrastructure, said: “We appreciate there is going to be some impact to existing arrangements to allow this work to get under way, but this is a huge project which will bring some significant benefits for local businesses and for people travelling into and out of the Borders.

“All of the work this year is being carried out by 
SBcContracts, the council’s in-house contractor, to ensure traffic management requirements are fully co-ordinated so that disruption is kept to a minimum.”

Police are hunting an armed and hooded raider who threatened shop staff and made off with the takings.

It happened around 8.20pm on Sunday at the Premier Store in Ballantyne Street, Innerleithen.

The man brandished a knife at staff before fleeing with a three-figure sum of cash.

Detective Sergeant Colin Chalmers said: “This was a terrifying experience for the staff to endure and we are eager to trace the person responsible as soon as possible.”

The suspect is white, around 5ft 8in and stocky. Staff told police he was wearing a waist-length dark coat with the hood up and a white woollen hat. He spoke with a local accent, according to the workers.

Sergeant Chalmers added: “We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area and who witnessed anything suspicious or who recognises the description of the suspect.”

Information can be passed to Police Scotland on 101 or with anonymity to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A coroner has said the military missed an opportunity to intervene in the days before Hawick solider Jason Smith died from heatstroke in soaring temperatures in Iraq.

Private Smith was a member of a Territorial Army company based in Galashiels and was serving alongside regulars from the KOSB when he died on August 13 in 2003.

The 32-year-old had repeatedly told medical staff that he was feeling unwell shortly after being posted with Galashiels comrades in June of that year.

Two inquests have been told that temperatures rose to more that 50C (122F) and that a number of soldiers had suffered heat-related problems.

The assistant coroner for Oxfordshire Alison Thompson conducted a second inquest over five days into the death of Private Smith.

In a narrative judgement, she concluded: “Death on active service overseas, involving a high tempo of operations in extreme temperatures, the risk of which would have been reduced by adherence to the then policy on heat illness, in terms of climatic monitoring, hydration, medical treatment and casualty reporting, and by the availability of air conditioned accommodation and vehicles.”

But she said it wasn’t possible to prove that these factors specifically caused, or were a direct link, to the soldier’s death.

However the coroner did say that advice and information given to soldiers, in what she described as arduous conditions, was inconsistent and inadequate – although she noted that the importance of drinking enough water had been stressed.

The coroner at the first inquest, Andrew Walker, ruled that death had been caused by serious failure on the part of the British Army in recognising the difficulty the TA soldier was having in adjusting to the climate.

Mr Walker also said he had been wrong to allow that inquest to go ahead because the Ministry of Defence had failed to reveal vital information.

A second inquest was ordered and the soldier’s mother Catherine Smith has been reacting to today’s ruling.

She said: “It has been a long 10-year fight for information and I am glad that the coroner has recognised that there was a missed opportunity to intervene when heat casualties in Al Amarah increased in August 2003 and that the risks contributing to Jason’s death could have been reduced.”

Solicitor Clair Hilder of Hodge Jones and Allen, has been part of a teaming fighting the Smith case.

She commented: “We are pleased to hear the coroner recognise that more could have been done to reduce the risks surrounding Jason’s death.

“Despite indications prior to the inquest that the MoD accepted the failings identified by the first inquest, it was disappointing that during the last week MoD personnel have given evidence that no such failings took place prior to Jason’s death.

“Particularly astounding was the evidence of the MoD’s Head of Medical Operations and Plans who steadfastly defended the hydration advice given to soldiers based on temperatures in Salisbury rather than the 50 degrees

Centigrade heat experienced in Iraq.”

Private Smith was repatriated to the Borders and buried with military honours in Hawick.

Berwick’s Laura Mitchell of Mount Pleasant Farm has won a grant to study in Australia and New Zealand.

The 21-year-old, daughter of award-winning farmers Ian and Jane, will spend four months in Australasia learning about beef eating quality characteristics and how they can be manipulated by farm management.

Laura said: “This trip will give me a valuable insight into the benefits of eating satisfaction grading systems and I aim to bring home some valuable best practice guidelines to share with the Scottish beef industry.”

UK beef producers are paid by conformation and fatness classifications, but critics believe this is subjective.

Thanks to her Roy Watherston Memorial Trust grant, Laura hopes to learn how Meat Standards Australia classifies cuts by eating satisfaction, a method shown to improve beef quality and consistency.

The Reston Young Farmer has worked in the rural payments and inspections department of the Scottish government since graduating in agriculture from Newcastle University.

The Mitchells also have 650-acre Courthill, near Hawick, where Jane’s family have farmed for six generations, growing barley and running a suckler herd. The family diversified also into caravan storage and landscaping.

In 2007 Jane and Ian won the Enhancing the Natural Beauty category of the Beautiful Farm awards for combining a successful farming business with sustainability. They were also prizewinners in the Borders Crop and Grassland Management competition earlier this year.

A Borders father and son team have won the Scottish Texel Breeders Club’s Jubilee Trophy for the second time in three years.

Selkirk farmers Gordon and David Gray of Sunnycroft, Lindean, will be presented with the trophy at the club’s AGM and dinner at the Lawrie and Symington mart in Lanark on Saturday.

The have been awarded the prize for the most points gained at five nominated shows.

“It’s been our best year so far, “ admitted Gordon. “We have a particularly good bunch of gimmers this year.”

Gordon said judging Texels at the Highland Show in June was the highlight of this year – and of his farming career so far.

The former Texel Sheep Society president (2009-11) has been in the breed since 1982.

He’s judged at the Royal Balmoral (2007) and at the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish national sales. In September he judged the French National Texel Show.

His prizes this year include the interbreed champion group; champion Texel and reserve interbreed ticket at the Northumberland County Show; the championship and reserve interbreed at Biggar; and another championship at the Border Union, Kelso, with a ewe by Mitchelhill Paparazzi.

A gimmer by Ettrick Sir Alan scooped the champion Texel, interbreed and then champion of champions titles at Dalkeith Show.

Another two Gray gimmers took the interbreed pairs championship.

Their gimmer by the 46,000gns Foyleview Superstar took the champion and interbreed champion trophies at Perth Show. Another Foyleview Superstar daughter was put up champion at Peebles Show. And another Ettrick Sir Alan daughter (different from the Dalkeith winner) scooped the Texel championship, interbreed champion and the show champion of champion’s prizes at Abington Show.

The year’s sales proved satisfactory too. The Grays topped the market at a breed sale at Lanark, and sold 52 lambs overall, and 24 shearling tups and 36 females at Kelso and Carlisle.

The Grays exported a ram to France last year. They followed that by sending more to France again this year, and, for the first time, to Germany.

Gordon is from a commercial beef and sheep farm near Biggar and the Grays moved to Overkirkhope, Ettrick, in 1989 before buying Sunnycroft at the end of 1999.

They have a Texel flock of 100 ewes and an Aberdeen Angus herd of 20 cows on Sunnycroft’s 150 acres and the further 180 acres they rent. David also does pregnancy scanning and runs a growing business in embryo transfer.

Gordon said: “Our goal is to keep going and, of course, we all want to win the Highland Show and get ‘x’ amount of money for our sheep. But if you can get a good consistent trade rather than one flash in the pan, that’s what we would look for.”

Pupils at Broomlands Primary School have worked with the Reverend Tom McDonald from Kelso North Church to fill shoeboxes with toys, clothes, toiletries and treats for less-fortunate children and adults in poorer countries.

They wrapped them in festive paper to be delivered across the world in time for Christmas.

Bowden

Cafe

The next community cafe will be held in the village hall on November 20 at 11am.

Broomlands

WRI

The meeting on November 18 is to be held in the upper hall, and not the vestibule, as previously published.

Caddonfoot

Remembrance

A service of remembrance was held on Sunday at the war memorial at Caddonfoot Church. It was led by the Reverend Marion Dodd and wreaths were laid ahead of the two minutes’ silence by Councillor Gavin Logan, Joyce Brown, Alistair Black, Tom Brown and Dave Hartley. Royal British Legion members were in attendance. The names of the fallen in two world wars were read by Bill Birch. During the earlier service, poppies were laid on the communion table and verses read by members of CY (Caddonfoot Youth) and others. Lessons were read by Fay Brydon. There was a retiring collection for the Earl Haig Fund. On Saturday, the church held its annual coffee morning and sale of work in the Volunteer Hall, raising more than £1,000. Bible study continues today (Thursday) from 5-6pm in Trinity Church

Canonbie

Remembrance

Chris Jagger and Jenni Williams jointly conducted the service at the war memorial last Sunday morning when two minutes’ silence was observed at 11am and the roll of honour read by Paul Williams. Bandsman Kenneth Hill sounded the Last Post and Reveille, while piper Iain Bell played the Lament. Jack Smith laid the wreath for the Royal British Legion, Jim Fleming for the community council and Ronnie Mowbray for Canonbie Probus club. Wreaths were also laid for the Guides by Amy Farrer and for the Brownies by Amy Kinstrey and Kelly Green. A service followed later in the United Parish Church which was conducted by Andrew Morton. The Guides and Brownies marched to the church with their colours. A short act of remembrance was also held a few miles away at Claygate.

Crailing

AGM

The Lothian Hall AGM will be held in the hall on November 20 at 7 pm.

EARLSTON

Remembrance

A short service was conducted at the war memorial by the Reverend Julie Woods on Sunday morning. Piper and standard bearer were Bruce Hastie and George Goodfellow respectively. Wreaths were laid by – Royal British Legion Scotland, Robert Bell; women’s section of the Royal British Legion Scotland, Jennifer Bryson; armed forces, Lt Col. (retd) Norman Robertson MBE BEM; Scottish Borders Council, Michael Scott; community council, Brian Thorburn; Rotary, Robert Turnbull; Red Cross, Andrew Lees; Scouts, Rory Seabrook (flag bearer, Max Timoney); Girl Guides, Amy Stephens (flag bearer, Alice Fyfe); Brownies, Lara Reid.

Curling

Earlston Curling Club is holding a “come-and-try” at Kelso ice rink on November 22. To find out more, contact Bill Byers (01896 849425) or Wendy Henderson (01896 848033).

Fundraiser

A bingo, cheese and wine evening is being held at the rugby club on November 22 at 7.30pm to raise funds for Earlston’s Christmas lights.

Craft fair

Earlston’s Christmas craft fair will be hosted by the Red Lion Hotel on November 16 from 11am.

Citizen of the Year

Nomination forms are available at Donaldson Butchers, Costcutter and Turnbull Chemists – but they must be completed and submitted by tomorrow (Friday) via boxes located in these premises.

Church

A total of 69 shoeboxes were handed in for the Blythswood Appeal. The service on November 17 at 10.15am will be conducted by the Reverend Julie Woods. On November 21 the church will be open from 11am, with a short led service at noon.

Camera club

Former press photographer and picture editor Rod Sibbald entertained members at the latest meeting. The former Galashiels Academy pupil worked for local, regional and national newspapers during his career, and gave his audience an insight into the skills required. He judged the competition, entitled “Every picture tells a story” – digital – 1, Allan Drummond; 2 and 3, John Smith; print – 1, Roddy Beatson; 2, Curtis Welsh; 3, Angela Jewell. 　

Wednesday Club

Last week members and friends enjoyed a trip to The Gyle shopping centre, Edinburgh, and are grateful for an Age Scotland donation which went towards the cost of the coach. The annual coffee morning held in Hanover Close on November 2 realised £404.70. The next meeting, in the church hall, is on November 20 when the competition will be “A Country Scene Photograph”. Members should bring their payment for the Christmas lunch.

Edgerston

AGM

The village hall AGM is on November 21 at 7.30pm.

Eskdalemuir

Remembrance

On Sunday afternoon the Reverend Scott McCarthy held a service of remembrance at Eskdalemuir war memorial where wreaths were laid for the community council and church.

Ewes

Remembrance

On Sunday afternoon the Reverend Scott McCarthy conducted a short service of remembrance where wreaths were laid on behalf of the community council and church.

FOUNTAINHALL

WRI

Members meet in the village hall at 7.30pm on November 20 for a Christmas decorations demonstration and the AGM (remember voting forms). Competitions – small autumn arrangement and a teapot. October competitions – apple tart on a plate – 1, Dorothy Small; 2, Margaret Robertson; wooden article – 1, Christine Sinclair; 2, Irene Scott.

Galashiels

Heart charity

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is inviting the public to a Meet the BHF event at 7-9pm on November 18 in Langlee Community Centre, Marigold Drive. Heather Gregory, fundraising volunteer manager for BHF Scotland, said: “The ‘Meet the BHF’ event is an opportunity to find out more about our local work and to meet some of the great people who are volunteering to support us. These local heroes are the power behind our life-saving research. We look forward to meeting the local community and telling them how they are helping us to fight back. You will also hear how you can become a local hero by joining the fight for every heartbeat.”

Glendouglas

WRI

At the AGM last Wednesday, a new committee was elected and will meet on November 26 to form a new syllabus. The rural took first prize in the inter-institute section of the federation show held in Springwood Park, Kelso, last Friday and Saturday. The theme was a musical and Glendouglas chose Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Dance

Sandra and Harry Jeffrey held a dance in Glendouglas Hall, raising £1,020 towards tackling dystonia, a neurological movement disorder. The couple are grateful to those who supported the event, and provided raffle prizes and donations. Music was supplied by the Stuart Anderson Scottish Dance Band.

Hawick

Bridge club

November 5 – SBU Autumn Pairs – 1, V. Johnstone and D. Usher; 2, K. Auckland and D. King; 3. S. White and J. Urquhart; 4, L. and T. Witten.

Rotary

A business meeting was held last week when conveners gave their committee reports on future plans. Gus Neilson (foundation) said a film night had been arranged for January 17 when “Sunshine on Leith” would be featured, the proceeds going to Rotary’s “End Polio Now” programme. Mairhi Trickett (international) reported that 110 boxes of Christmas gifts had been despatched to eastern Europe, while treasurer Bob Kellet gave a satisfactory report on the club’s finances. George Rennie (vocational/community) informed members that 32 copies of a Rotary “Dictionary for Life” would be supplied next spring to P6 at Burnfoot Community School. The President’s Dinner is to be held on November 29 at Mansfield Park Function Suite.

Camera club

The second monthly competition – landscape/seascape – took place last Thursday, with John Peters judging entries. Projected images – 1, Reflections by Sel Messer; 2, Loch Morlick by Dennis Laing; 3, Poppy Field by Ali Graham. Mounted prints – 1, Smailholm Mains Folly by Ali Graham; 2, Misty Torridon by George Sudlow; 3, Berwick Lighthouse by George Sudlow. Novice – 1 and 2, Ailsa Craig and Kippford Estuary, both by Norma Graham. The November 21 meeting features the people competition, with Mark Davey judging entries.

Carer

A carer at the Buccleuch Care Centre will tomorrow (Friday) be recognised at an evening awards ceremony celebrating the independent care home sector in Scotland. Rikki Cunningham is a finalist in the Carer of the Year category at the Scottish Care Awards 2013. He will learn the result at the awards ceremony to be held at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.

Innerleithen

Remembrance

A large number of townsfolk gathered for Innerleithen’s act of remembrance on Sunday at 12.30pm at the war memorial. The service was conducted by the Reverend Janice Faris (parish church) and Father Rybka (St James’). Wreaths were laid by the Royal British Legion (Jim Calder), Church of Scotland (Rita Bean), Innerleithen and District Community Council (Paul Faris), Scottish Borders Council (Graham Garvie), Guide Association (Brownies Alice Harrison and Hallie Murray) and Scout Association (Beavers Kai McTeir-Hay and Calum Bauld). St Ronan’s Silver Band, conducted by David Robb, led the praise. Steven Gibb of Innerleithen Pipe Band played the lament and the silence was broken by Douglas Couchman of the Silver Band who sounded the Last Post and Reveille.

Committee

The next meeting of St Ronan’s Games committee will take place on November 20 in the council chamber, Memorial Hall, at 7pm.

Operatic society

Innerleithen and District Amateur Operatic Society will hold a general meeting for the presentation of accounts on November 27 in the Free Library Hall, Buccleuch Street, at 7pm.

Coffee morning

St Ronan’s Border Games will hold a coffee morning on November 30 in the Vale Club (10am-noon).

Service

The November 17 service in Innerleithen Church starts at 11.30am, followed by a service at St Ronan’s House at 4pm

Jedburgh

Rotary

Members were given a talk by Ailsa Davey, the Rotary Young Leadership candidate from Jedburgh Grammar School, who they sponsored to attend a residential course at Ardroig, near Abernethy, on Loch Tay. She explained how the experience had benefited her in terms of confidence and skills, as well as problem-solving. Ailsa was faced with many challenges, including, mountain climbing, canoeing, abseiling, and raft and shelter building. At the end of her talk Ailsa was presented with her Rotary Youth Leadership Awards certificate. On October 31 members enjoyed a talk from Archie McLean, director of Border Toyota. He related how he had moved from a career in insurance to become an independent trainer and consultant before being offered the opportunity to take on the Toyota franchise at St Boswells. Rotary ladies held a bazaar in the British Legion Club on November 1 to raise funds for local charities. The President’s Night was held a week later in the new Jedburgh Bowling Club. During the evening members were entertained by the Oxnam Valley Choir. The evening also included presentations of Paul Harris Awards for outstanding Rotary service to Eddie Muir and Mike Brydon.

Fair

Howdenburn Rainbows, Brownies and Guides are having a Christmas fair and coffee evening on November 18 at Howdenburn Primary School (6.30-8pm).

Bridge club

November 4 – Scottish Bridge Union Autumn Pairs – N/S – 1, M. Forsythe and P. Harris; 2, N. Porter and S. Graham; 3, M. Purdie and O. Whillans; E/W – 1 (equal), M. and H. Ouldcott, R. Oates and S. West; 3, B. and I. Middleton.

Kelso

Rangers fans

Borders Bears Race Day on November 23 – names to Jim Vass (01573 226240).

Guild

Kelso North and Ednam Parish Church guild members met, under the leadership of Irene Urquhart, to hear David Biddulph, of the Bethany Trust, founded 30 years ago. The trust owns a house in Leith which can accommodate 17 men, aged 18 to 65, who wish to recover from an addictive lifestyle. Mr Biddulph gave a insight into the work that this charity does.

Museum friends

Friends of Kelso Museum held their AGM on November 6 when all officers were re-elected. Charlie Robertson then gave a presentation on the first 100 years of the Border Union Show. The third talk in the November lecture series will be held on the 20th in the Abbey Row Centre at 7.30pm – Mary Craig will present “Border Lepers – the shamed and the shunned”.

WRI show

The theme for the biannual Roxburghshire federation show at Springwood Park was “That’s Entertainment”. and the exhibits were true to the theme. The Inter Group entries were entitled “Hooray for Hollywood” and the victor was Group K with a black-and-white theme. Jacqueline Bigwood (Appletreehall) won the Playfair Hannay Cup for best individual entry with a poster for “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. The Inter-Institute Competition, “Musical, stage or screen”, proved to be victorious for Glendouglas, lifting the Somerville Trophy with “Joseph and the amazing technicolour Dreamcoat”. The Lilliesleaf Cup for most outstanding exhibit in the Inter-

Institute class went to Kath Gallon (Towford). The Inter-Institute Competition for four photographs was entitled “Sunset or Sunrise”, with reference to “Fiddler on the Roof”, was won by Eckford. M. C. Hornby (Towford) was awarded the Edna Young Memorial Trophy for best photograph in the individual section. Other classes which followed the theme were in floral art, where the Janet Warden Cup went to Elizabeth Jackson (Burnfoot). Other trophies awarded were the Lady Fairfax-Lucy Cup to Morebattle for their glove puppet made from recycled materials, the Inter-institute Cup(institute with 25 or more members) to Midlem, and for less than 25 members, Makerstoun. Individuals who won cups were June Robertson (Wilton Dean), who received the Mary Palmer Douglas Cup for highest aggregate in handcraft classes, and Grierson Cup for best exhibit in knitting and crochet; Isa Yeomans for her apple tart; Joan Duncan (Makerstoun) received the Brooks Cup for the highest aggregate in baking; Isobel Halliday (Appletreehall) took the Constance Gordon Cup for highest aggregate in preserves and produce; Constance Inglis Cup for best exhibit in handcraft classes, embroidery, sewing and craft, and the Maxwellheugh Salver (best embroidery exhibit) were awarded to Margaret Taylor of Bedrule; The Jean Holmes Cup (best plain sewing exhibit) was lifted by Hermitage’s Jean Elliott;.Shona Morison (Cogsmill) received the Joyce Menzies Cup for best exhibit in baking and Pickwell Salver for highest aggregate in sweets; Anderson Salver (best cooking exhibit) was won by Sheena Galloway (Midlem); silver medal best gingerbread, Rose Cameron (St Boswells); Mary B. Jamieson Trophy for best exhibit in novice handcrafts, Avril Wittering (Hermitage). Judith Zlolkowski of Makerstoun was judged to have the best exhibit in the novice baking and received the Anne Kennedy Cup, while the shield for top exhibit in the novice floral arrangement class was awarded to Sheena Nelson (Burnfoot), who also won the Shetland Trophy for best exhibit outwith the winning entries (chairman’s choice). The Junior Section Shield for under-10s was shared by Ella Penman (Midlem) and Kym Cessford (Morebattle), with the shield for 10-14 years going to Helen Clyne (Wilton Dean). The trophies were presented by Eileen Mercer.

Bridge club

November 6 – Rose Bowl 2 – N/S – 1, Bob Stevenson and Annie Mitchell; 2, Avril Ronald and Jon Bridger; 3, Dominic and Diana Alkin; E/W – 1, Joyce Thomson and Helenor Pratt; 2, Stuart Graham and Ian Watson; 3, Archie Stewart and Billy Potts. November 7 – Millennium Trophy 6 – N/S – 1, Jim Stone and Annie Mitchell; 2, Dominic and Diana Alkin; 3, Alison Darling and Mary Logan; E/W – 1, Helenor Pratt and Pauline Smart; 2, Jean Henry and Myra Thomson; 3, Gerry Eglington and Jon Bridger.

Thursday Group

Members heard a presentation on “Kelso High School 2013” by the head boy and girl (Calum Potts and Louise Crombie), and their deputes (Cameron Gillie and Molly Ingledew). Today, Jan Beattie will talk about the work of the Lavender Touch charity at 2pm in Abbey Row Centre.

Langholm

Remembrance

The march to the parish church on Sunday was under parade leader Alex Maxwell, formerly of the KOSB, and headed by the pipe band. The Queen’s colours were carried by ex-Navy man Derek Nordon and the branch colours by Colin Tedham, formerly of the KOSB. They were followed by the flags of various youth organisations. The church service was taken by the Reverend Scott McCarthy, and the readings given by Irving Stuart who, during the war, had been on the Arctic convoys, and Alistair Paisley, representing the youth organisations. Langholm Town Band provided music for the service. During the act of remembrance piper Craig Irving played the Lament and bandsman Nicole Weatherstone the Last Post and Reveille. After the church service the parade marched to Buccleuch Park where a short service was conducted by Mr McCarthy at the war memorial. Among those representing the organisations who laid wreaths were – John Reid (Royal British Legion); Irving Stuart (Royal Navy); Donald Waldie (Army); Joe Donaldson (Royal Air Force). David Stevenson laid a wreath on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant and among the organisations who laid wreaths were representatives from the community council, Scouts, church, fire and rescue service, day centre, Probus and Rotary clubs, Lodge Eskdale Kilwinning, Castle Craigs Club and Pie Club.

Town Band

The Scottish Borders Brass Band Association’s entertainment contest took place in the town hall at Jedburgh, and among the competitors was the Town Band which, under the direction of Chris Shanks,

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competed in the third section, finishing seventh overall. This meant they finished third in their section. The Town Band is holding a concert in the Buccleuch Centre on December 7.

Craft fair

A good number of people from the town made the short journey to support the annual craft fayre in aid of Canonbie United Parish Church which was held in the village hall. The sum of £1,911 was raised.

Lauder

Market

The Trading Post is hosting a Christmas market on November 16 and 17 to launch its community Curiosity Shop, which will offer a market place for local independent crafters and community groups raising funds. There will also be a Santa’s grotto run by Youth 2 Day.

Historical society

Paul Brough will give an illustrated talk entitled “Flodden 1513” on November 20 at 7.30pm in Lauder Youth Trust Hall.

Lindean

WRI

Members shared their craft-making skills regarding needlework, painting, scrapbook and card-making, dressing dolls and paper flowers. Competitions – toffee – 1, Margaret Ingles; 2, Margaret Milne; 3, Marjorie Mabon; animal ornament – 1, Grace Aitchison; 2, Margaret Ingles; 3, Janette Stott. The raffle was won by Janette Stott and Sheila Waugh. The next meeting is the Christmas party on December 5.

Makerstoun

Remembrance

A wreath was laid at the war memorial by Lord Biddulph on behalf of the parish on Sunday. This was followed by a short service in Makerstoun Kirk, led by session clerk Jim Smith.

Poppy collection

The sum of £247.50 was collected from the sale of poppies in Makerstoun parish. The convener, Lady Mary Biddulph, is grateful to collectors Mrs Wilson, Mrs Fleming and Geordie Duncan, and all who gave so generously.

Bonfire

Sixty people turned up in the grounds of Makerstoun House on November 5 to watch the bonfire being lit by Lord Biddulph and Colin Pringle, both of whom also set off the fireworks. The guy was made by Jodie, and soup, sausages and rolls were served by Lady Mary Biddulph.

melrose

Trimontium

St Mary’s, Melrose, paid their by-now annual visit, marching up the brae from Leaderfoot to Newstead, and going on to see the Synton Hill hoard of silver denarii at the Ormiston, followed by the anticipated favourite – the costumes – and a little souvenir hunting. Friday morning saw museum visitors from the National Museum in Edinburgh and SBC museums and galleries Service. The Edinburgh colleagues were checking over the 2013 season’s loan of the little terracotta horse from a shrine at Trimontium as well as the copper alloy protectors from the pommels of the Trimontium saddle. Next season’s loan is to be, as usual, a surprise. The 228 silver denarii were off to Tweeddale Museums and Scott’s Selkirk, before returning to Melrose in the spring.

Remembrance

The service on the Weirhill was preceded by the organisations’ parade from the Market Square to the war memorial, accompanied by the pipe band. The Reverend Alistair Bennett conducted the service and the Reverend Philip Blackledge preached the sermon. The choir sang “Let there be peace on earth”, conducted by Jim Letham. Jim Marshall was at the organ.

Church

Activities –November 14 (10am) and November 18 (7.30pm) – study group on “The Historical Jesus”; November 16 – 7.30pm, Greenwood Trio; November 17 – services at Bowden (9.30am) and Melrose (11am); church magazine deadline; November 21 – 7.30pm, kirk session; November 24 – Melrose communion at 11am (retiring offering for project fund; Food bank collection is ongoing weekly.

Morebattle

Coffee morning

A coffee morning will be held in the institute on November 16 at 10.30am in aid of the Air Cadets.

Guild

Dr Ian Clark gave a talk entitled “A Pisky Cuckoo in a Presby Nest” at last Thursday’s meeting. Olive Anderson gave the vote of thanks. Arrangements were made for the annual dinner on December 4.

Folk night

A night with Kelso Folk Club will be held in the Templehall Hotel on November 23 at 8.30pm in aid of the flower show and village hall. There will also be a bottle draw – tickets from the hotel and village shop.

Newcastleton

Burns Night

Copshaw Common Riding Burns Night was held this month in order to secure a better choice of speakers. Tub Gillian McGimpsey carried in the haggis, headed by piper Roddy McIntyre from Jedburgh. At and at the back was Left Leg Man Barry Jackson carrying the flag. The address to the haggis was given by Alan Atkinson. Chief guest was Hawick historian Ian Landles, who captured the audience with an engrossing Immortal Memory. The toast to Copshawholm was proposed by Brian Hunter from Thornhill, with Gary Cuthbert replying. John Dodd (Brampton) toasted The Lassies and the reply came from author and former TV presenter Gilly Fraser. Alan Atkinson proposed the toast to The Guests and the toast to the chairman came from Ian Landles. Tam O’ Shanter and Holy Willie’s Prayer were in the capable hands of John Tullie from Teviothead. There were also recitations from Helen Morrison. Bonchester’s Henry Douglas sang for the company and there was accordion music from Roger Dobson, with his daughter Carol on fiddle and Mark McDougal playing keyboard.

Newmill

WRI

Newmill and Teviothead members enjoyed an early Christmas dinner at Mosspaul Inn on November 5. During a short business session, Sheila Gray was made an honorary member of the rural. The points cup for competitions was won by Muriel Baptie (30 points), followed by Gill Francombe (15) and Caroline Tullie (12). Two rural calendars are still available to members. The next meeting is on December 3 when the topic will be “Easy suppers by The Nutcrackers”. Competitions – a jar of homemade mincemeat and a favourite Christmas tree decoration. Subs will also be due on that date.

Oxton

WRI

The next meeting is on November 20 when Mellaine Acey will give a demonstration on gift wrapping. Competition – “Something to keep you warm”.

Peebles

Coffee morning

Peebles Ex-Servicemen’s Pipe Band is holding a coffee morning in the Ex-Servicemen’s Club on November 16 (10am-noon).

Selkirk

Antiquarian society

The November 20 meeting at 7.30pm in St Joseph’s Church hall features at talk by Walter Elliot – “Walter’s Swansong – 60 Years of Field Walking”. Details of the society’s syllabus is available on www.selkirkshireantiquariansociety.co.uk.

Fair

The Haining Christmas fair will be held on November 16 and 17 (10.30am-4pm).

STICHILL

WRI

At the November meeting Lisa Haig, from the Beauty Retreat, gave a make-up demonstration, explaining the products used on Gaynor, one of the members. She also showed the art of threading to get rid of unwanted hair. June Brown gave the vote of thanks. Competitions – jar of fruit curd – 1, Erica Smith; 2, Brenda Waring; 3, Frances Rogers; decorated nail file – 1, Margaret Mitchell; 2, Frances Rogers; 3, Avril Purves. The raffle was won by Meg Black. The next meeting is on December 3 – the Christmas meal at the Cross Keys. Meet at the village hall at 6.45pm so that transport can be arranged.

Dance

A St Andrew’s Night dance will be held in the village hall on November 23 (7pm).

Traquair

Remembrance

At an act of remembrance on Sunday, wreaths were laid by Deputy Lord Lieutenant Catherine Maxwell Stuart, Jim Calder and Norman Donald on behalf of the British Legion, community council and Church of Scotland.

Service

The next service in Traquair Kirk will be on November 24 at 10am.

Walkerburn

Race night

November 16 sees Walkerburn Rugby Club host a race night. Horses and jockeys can be bought in advance through players and committee members. Call Russell Blackhall (01896 831604) for more information.

Ladies’ event

Walkerburn Rugby Club is hosting a ladies’ pre-Christmas event on November 23 (2-5pm). Tickets from Jan at Dress Sense in Innerleithen, or call Paula on 01896 831604.

Service

The service in Walkerburn Public Hall on November 17 will be at 10 am.

Westerkirk

Remembrance

The Reverend Scott McCarthy conducted a short service at the war memorial where wreaths were laid for the church and community council. The group then walked up to the churchyard where a cross and poppy were set at the grave of Pte John Grieve, who was in the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders No 9 Commando and buried in May 1943, aged 24.

YETHOLM

WRI

The AGM is on November 19 at 10.30am in the Wauchope Hall. There will be a Christmas flowers demonstration. Competition – Christmas Table centre decoration (natural or artificial flowers).

Bonfire night

This event is one of the few supervised displays in the area and attracted great support from the village and further afield. Congratulations to organisers Yetholm Community Council and Daniel Gillies, who lit the fireworks, as well as to the ladies who served soup and refreshments, and to those in charge of the torchlight procession. After expenses, the evening raised just under £400. The village shop ladies who dressed up as witches at Halloween collected £30 for the fireworks.

History society

Copies of the society’s programme of events for the 2013-14 season are being distributed in the village. Of immediate interest is a trip on November 19 to Liddesdale Heritage Centre in Newcasleton where members hope to get ideas for their proposed heritage centre in the former Mission Hall.

Shepherds’ show

The show committee held a supper in the Wauchope Hall.

Coffee morning

The primary school is holding a coffee morning on November 23 in the Wauchope Hall.

Young children and their parents are invited to climb on board “Bessie”, the PlayTalkRead bus, when it visits the Borders next week.

Designed to help encourage parents and carers to play, talk and read more with their little ones, the bus will be stopping at: Burnfoot Community School (10am-1pm, 2-4pm) on November 18; Newcastleton Primary School (10am-1pm, 2-4pm) on November 19; Philiphaugh Community Centre (10am-1pm, 2-4pm) on November 20; Langlee Centre (10am-1pm, 2-4pm) on November 21; Parkside Primary School in Jedburgh (10am-12.15pm) on November 22; Howdenburn Primary School in Jedburgh (1.45-4pm) on November 22; Lauder Primary School (10am-1pm, 2-4pm) on November 27. The PlayTalkRead roadshow is part of the Scottish Government’s Early Years campaign which focuses on children’s early years (0-3).

The historic villages of Town and Kirk Yetholm, popular with the hill and long-distance walking fraternity, have a new claim to fame.

Local residents who care about the folk who visit them or just pass through have installed two automated external defibrillators (AEDs) – one in a weather-proof cabinet outside the Plough Hotel, and the other outside the Border Hotel. AEDs are almost common-place in shopping malls and at airports around the world, but it is only in recent years that their worth has been appreciated in Scotland – especially in rural areas.

If someone goes into cardiac arrest, then every minute they are unconscious means 10 per cent of their life expectancy is gone. That is when local volunteers – trained to carry out CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) until the defibrillator can be applied to shock the heart back into normal fibrillation – become life-savers.

The AEDs idea came from local nurse Pippa Emerson. She contacted the community council where Barbara Paul carried the suggestion forward and persuaded the local community to fund the two machines out of their own pockets.

Barbara explained: “We haven’t sought grants or handouts, but have raised the money ourselves” – in fact they raised £2,950 for the machines and cabinets.

Wilma Gunn, from charity Scottish HART, which supplied the two machines, handed them over to the Yetholm community.

Pictured are, back row, from left, Sue Dickson, David Redpath, Stewart McDonald, Pippa Emerson, Margaret Boyd and Bill Elliot; front, Councillor Simon Mountford, Wilma Gunn, Barbara Paul and Kay Greenhorn.

I like Sheriff Kevin Drummond – a bit of the old school, and all the better for it.

I chair the Scottish Parliament’s justice committee and when the sheriff has appeared to give evidence he has not held back his views, which is absolutely right and indeed why he was invited in the first place.

I also agree with him on the necessity to maintain the principle of mandatory corroboration in Scots Law, which flies in the face of Cabinet Secretary Kenny MacAskill’s determination to abolish it.

I wish Sheriff Drummond, who retired from the bench last month, well for all he has done, and for his commitment to the Borders and Midlothian communities.

Mud on Road

OK, I admit its gie muddy on the A7, particularly between Falahill and Heriot.

I also have to admit that it seems a thankless task for the roadsweepers going up and down because not only is it like the old “painting the Forth Bridge” adage, it also means tailbacks – and I grumble about mud, temporary lights and tailbacks like everyone else.

But I also look out at the line coming more alive with every passing day all the way to Edinburgh. Look at all those new crossings under way at Newtongrange and Gorebridge, and even at the Sheriffhall roundabout.

It is hard, especially for folks with homes so close to the line – not just the mud, but the noise of the machines. However, one day – and not far off – we’ll even see the odd steam train down the reconstructed line. What a sight that will be and I am sure it will boost out local economy.

As for the mud? I’m just leaving it on my car for the next heavy rainfall. Mind you, that’s pretty well what I usually do.

Development Trusts and Community Volunteering

During my 14 years here at Parly I have become more and more aware of the huge amount of work done – not by politicians at either national or local level – but by communities doing it for themselves.

Seeing something needing done and then setting about getting funding, often through forming themselves into a charitable trust or similar.

I am holding my own debate to recognise this work and exchange experiences on December 3 at 5pm at Parliament, and afterwards having a wee thank-you event (wine/ soft drinks and nibbles).

I am trying to contact every development trust/community project in the constituency – and there’s no harm getting in touch with my offices to let me know of any you think should be invited.

A THREE-FOLD increase in domestic abuse incidents will be reported by the Borders’ police commander at a meeting of the council’s Police, Fire and Rescue and Safer Communities Board tomorrow.

Chief Supt Jeanette McDiarmid will reveal a 329 per cent increase in the number of domestic abuse crimes compared to the first half of the last financial year.

However, the detection rate has also increased, rising to almost 87 per cent.

In notes on the performance figures, Chief Supt McDiarmid states: “It is pleasing to note that detection rates have risen during a period when more focus has been given to this area of criminality.

“As a result of this focus, crimes have increased significantly from 75 to 322 (up 329 per cent) while detections have increased from 61 to 280 (up 359 per cent).”

The figures also reveal a slight fall in the overall detection rate, just 0.7 per cent.

However, in the notes Chief Supt McDiarmid adds: “The detection rate is marginally lower than that seen in the period last year, but it is hoped this will fall back in line going forward in the current year.

“It is also noteworthy that recorded crime, although slightly increased on last year, is below the previous five-year average. This has been achieved in continuous challenging financial times.”

AN EMPLOYEE with learning difficulties at the Buccleuch Care Centre in Hawick is in with a chance to be named Scotland’s Carer of the Year,

Rikki Cunningham has been selected as a finalist in the category at the Scottish Care Awards 2013, with the winners announced at a ceremony in the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow tomorrow.

Over 300 entries for 13 awards have been received this year from employers, employees, care home residents and their families nominating staff, peers and colleagues.

Rikki is stunned that he has been recognised as a finalist for the awards.

He said: “I am very surprised but thrilled and honoured to be nominated as one of the finalists in the Scottish Care Awards.”

Eveline Moyes, manager of the Buccleuch Care Centre, nominated Rikki. She said: “Rikki has a learning difficulty making it difficult for him to read, write and retain information. Despite this, he performs his role to a high level.”

She added: “He lights up the faces of residents just by walking into a room and always has time to chat, help them enjoy their stay and give them a laugh.

“Rikki is of the belief it is now their home and they need to feel as safe, secure and cared for as if in their own home.”

Eveline said: “Rikki is liked by other staff members, is dedicated, responsible and has risen to the challenge of becoming a great carer.

“An example to others, he never shows he may be feeling low, always has a smile on his face, and the residents love Rikki.”

The Scottish Care National Care Home Conference, now in its fourteenth year, has incorporated an awards ceremony for the last nine years.

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in the Borders fell for the eighth consecutive time in October, official figures have revealed.

However, despite the fall, the percentage of people aged 18 to 24 out of work in the region remains higher than the Scottish and British average.

It stands at 6.2 per cent of the population of that age, compared to 5.5 per cent for Britain as a whole and 5.6 per cent in Scotland.

Overall, 2.4 per cent (1,687) of all Borderers of working age were claiming the unemployment benefit in mid-October.