A man jailed after a stand-off with armed police in Jedburgh has been caged for 10 years for armed robberies and making bomb threats in London.

David Williamson used an imitation gun in his robberies and his bomb-threat targets included Harrods and the city’s rail network.

Williamson, 50, was convicted by a jury at Kingston Crown Court on two counts of robbery in London and Warrington; two counts of possessing an imitation firearm while committing the robberies; possession of the imitation weapon with intent to cause of violence in Kent; five bomb hoaxes and possessing a firearm with intent.

He was jailed for each of the offences and his total sentence was 10 years.

In 2008, Williamson was locked up for 22 months at Jedburgh Sheriff Court after armed police surrounded his house in the town’s Bongate View. He also sent death threats, that included decapitation, from his cell in Edinburgh’s Saughton Prison and received a High Court jail sentence.

The jury in London was told Williamson began his armed robbery spree by entering a Maidstone branch of The Money Shop on October 25, 2012, and attempting to obtain cash by fraud. He was challenged by staff and left, but returned and pointed a black handgun at staff who activated an alarm and Williamson left empty-handed.

Later that day in London Williamson entered The Delmere Hotel near Hyde Park and produced the gun at a lone female receptionist, causing her to fear for her life. She gave him the contents of the till and he left.

Two days later, Williamson attended a bureau de change counter in the Golden Square shopping centre in Warrington where he showed the staff his gun and they handed over almost £4,000.

Williamson was tracked on CCTV leaving the shopping centre and catching a bus out of the city centre. Armed-response officers from Cheshire Constabulary stopped the bus at Runcorn town centre where he was arrested.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad became involved in the investigation and on November 15, 2012, Williamson was charged with armed robberies in Kent and London.

Before the robbery spree, Williamson made four phone calls to police on October 14, 2012, claiming there were several explosive devices planted across central London and on the rail network. On the same day he called at Harrods and left a note for staff stating that an explosive device had been planted. He was arrested for the Harrods bomb hoax by the Flying Squad at the same time as the robberies.

In March last year, Williamson was arrested by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Unit who had identified his voice and he was charged with four counts of causing a bomb hoax.

There was a lot riding on the opening night of this first shot at the much-loved Wizard of Oz by the cast and crew of KAOS Musical Theatre Company.

Its status as a big-screen landmark containing iconic cultural characters means “Wizard” is a step up for any amateur outfit.

With green-faced witches and flying monkeys, the eye-popping movie of L. Frank Baum’s story also propelled lead Judy Garland to super stardom.

So it was a brave choice by debut director Pooee Pitman and the company – but after watching Tuesday’s opening night in Kelso’s Tait Hall, it can safely be said this is a truly magical production, which sets a new benchmark for years to come.

From the youngest performer on stage to leading lady, Rhianne Miller, 17, from Jedburgh, as Dorothy, the performances quite simply shine.

Everyone by now knows the story of how Kansas farm girl Dorothy and her dog Toto get caught up in a tornado and are transported to the Land of Oz.

They head off along the yellow brick road, together with a scarecrow, tin man and cowardly lion.

But there is danger, as the Wicked Witch of the West tries to part Dorothy from her enchanted ruby slippers.

All who have had a role to play in bringing this show to life deserve praise, but the lead actors especially so.

First up is Rhianne as Dorothy. For such a young performer, she is a real star in the making, with a lovely singing voice that does justice to the Oscar-winning number, Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

Next come Scarecrow (Tony Jackson), Tin Man (Alan Thomson) and Cowardly Lion (Steven Luke).

Right from the start, Pooee was adamant the Kelso production would stick closely to the book and film, otherwise it would disappoint audiences who have loved the story and songs for 75 years.

With that in mind, the easiest compliment to pay the aforementioned trio is that it was like watching the movie.

Tony’s wobbly-legged scarecrow is beautifully realised, constantly stuffing bits of straw back into himself.

Alan’s tin man has the perfect amount of pathos and is clad in a costume as good as the original – amazing when you discover it was actually created by Tony and Steven, complete with steam-puffing headgear.

And then there is Steven as the Cowardly Lion. He is a joy to watch in the role made famous by actor Bert Lahr, complete with growls, iconic laugh and tail-swinging swagger.

And it would be remiss not to mention the Wicked Witch of the West.

It is hard to believe under all the green make-up is talented 16-year-old Sophie Lynch, also a Jedburgh Grammar School pupil, who brings just the right amount of comedy-tinged malevolence to the role.

Avril Murray’s choreography is spot on, while the orchestra, under musical director Heather Cattanach, is a pleasure to listen to.

As for the young cast members who fill the roles of everything from Munchkins and trees, to jitterbug dancers and flying monkeys – the only word to use is tremendous.

Pooee has put heart and soul into the show over the last nine months, with even husband Spencer and the couple’s children all on stage at some point.

“It has been an absolute joy and pleasure to direct and produce for the very first time with KAOS,” she said.

“It’s been 75 years since The Wizard of Oz was first screened, and we really hope we have done it justice.”

Yes Pooee, you and KAOS certainly have.

An inspector has told the council to invest in improvements to Waverley Care Home in Galashiels, despite plans being in place for major changes.

Following an unnannounced visit, Lesley Smith from the Care Inspectorate rated the quality of environment at the home ‘weak’.

In her report she said: “The environmental layout in Waverley cannot meet the needs of a small number of residents in terms of personal care.

“There are other, existing environmental difficulties and long term maintenance/decoration issues to be addressed. The Intermediate Care Unit also needs to be reviewed in terms of fitness for purpose.”

The council has already agreed to transform Waverley into a 24-bed short-term/rehabilitation unit. This will provide a mix of short break/respite spaces, intermediate care and assessment beds.

The £200,000-plus scheme will avoid a £2m bill for carrying out the necessary building work to keep the home for long-term residents.

However, Ms Smith said that despite the council agreeing that long term residents will not be forced out, it has failed to make sure their needs are being met in the interim.

In particular, she highlighted problems with bathroom facilities, stating: “We specifically considered the bathroom and shower facilities to be limited and to fail to meet the needs and choices of all residents.

“We understood that one resident was unable to safely use either the shower or bath. This meant the resident could only be washed. Other residents could only use one or other of the bathing options, which may not necessarily be their option of choice.”

A spokesperson for the council told The Southern: “The inspection report is very positive about the care and support provided to residents in Waverley Care Home.

“The council has recognised that the environment does not meet Care Inspectorate standards and money has been identified in the council’s capital programme to upgrade key areas of the home, including personal care facilities.”

He added: “The intention of the council is to refocus the home into short stay provision moving forward and there has been ongoing discussions with residents, relatives and staff about these proposals.”

Local bosses are waiting to see the finer details behind the Chancellor’s budget bullet points before giving him the thumbs up or thumbs down.

But industry leaders have already said they expected more from Tory George Osborne.

Not surprising Lib Dem coalition partner Michael Moore has thrown his weight behind the finance chief.

But, despite raising the amount people can earn before paying tax, trades union leaders say the budget fails those on low pay.

However, he’s the toast of the drinks trade – cutting beer by 1p a pint and giving the whisky industry its long-called for tax boost.

Bruce Simpson, the vice convener of the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce reacted within minutes of the Chancellor sitting down.

He told The Southern: “The extra assistance for exporting, manufacturing, construction, investment allowances and energy costs is welcomed.

“We did hope more could have been offered on the business rates issue in Scotland where rates are punitive, with no transitional allowance.

“But as with all budget announcements, the meat is in the small print, which we will no doubt learn more about over the next few days.”

Mr Moore said the budget meant an £800 tax cut for 39,000 people in the Borders.

He commented: “This is an important budget for families, pensioners and savers, across the Borders.

“The Liberal Democrats in government are providing further tax cuts for people on low income, more affordable childcare and continuing the freeze on fuel duty, which is important in a rural area.

“Now that the economy is getting back on track, these further announcements are very welcome.”

But Grahame Smith, the general secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress, disagreed.

He commented: “With the majority of spending cuts yet to be implemented and the unprecedented decline in real wages ongoing, there was nothing in this budget to help the low paid or those out of work. This government is clearly relaxed about falling living standards.”

With possibly two distilleries being opened in the Borders, the whisky tax freeze and removal of the alcohol duty escalator is seen as good news.

David Frost of the Scotch Whisky Association said: “It supports hard-pressed consumers, a major manufacturing and export industry and the wider hospitality sector.”

Coupled with the 1p a pint beer cut,this prompted Brigid Simmons of the Beer and Pub Association to describe the chancellor as the toast of brewers, pubs and pub-goers.

Campaigners have called on NHS Borders to issue a timescale for the delivery of new hydrotherapy facilities to replace those at the BGH.

It follows a pledge from NHS Borders chairman John Raine who has said he will do all he can to retain the BGH hydrotherapy pool, earmarked for closure in a revamp of the hospital’s outpatient department, until a replacement is ready.

NHS Borders wants hydrotherapy provided from a specialist pool still to be built at Jedburgh, with local swimming pools delivering water-based exercise sessions.

But it all hinges on NHS Borders obtaining funding to finish the outpatient scheme and on Jedburgh Leisure Facilities Trust gaining planning consent and funding.

Borders Patient Action Group was “delighted” with Mr Raine’s pledge, but added: “We worry his control of events may not deliver a hydrotherapy service to match the excellence of the one NHS Borders is abandoning.

“We are concerned the interval between the closure of the BGH pool and opening of a new facility in Jedburgh could leave patients without hydrotherapy for an extended period.

“A timescale from NHS Borders would be much welcomed by the general public.”

Jedburgh pool trustee, George Burt, says hydrotherapy facilities are definitely part of its plans, but do not as yet have funding or planning permission.

“The first thing we want, hopefully done this year, is new changing facilities,” he said.

A teenager who stole from shops in Galashiels was jailed for four months at Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday.

Mark McCarry, 18, claimed he had no money or food, and was hungry when he stole muffins from Asda.

McCarry, of Croft Street, Galashiels, admitted five charges of shoplifting from Boots, the Galapark Co-op and Farren Pharmacy between December 10 and February 6. He also pleaded guilty to shouting and swearing in Gala Water Retail Park, Galashiels, on January 7, and possession of cannabis at nearby Paton Street on January 21.

McCarry received a concurrent four-month prison sentence after he admitted stealing muffins worth £2 from Asda on February 28. He was also sentenced to 140 days’ imprisonment – again to run concurrently – for stealing a bottle of alcohol from the Co-op in Roxburgh Street, Kelso, on March 6.

Tessa Bradley, prosecuting, said McCarry offended when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Mat Patrick, defending, told the court: “The only offence not committed when he was under the influence is the theft of the muffins. He says he had no electricity and no money for food, and committed this theft to eat. All the unrecovered items were sold for drink or drugs.”

CHANNEL FOUR television coverage of Kelso’s meeting on Saturday adds to what promises to be another thrilling afternoon’s racing, writes Hilary Mactaggart.

The first race time of a valuable card offering £77,500 prize money, has been brought forward to 1.30pm, with gates open at 11.30am.

With the 2013 fixture lost to waterlogging, Saturday sees the inaugural running of two new races. The first race to be televised is the £25,000 handicap chase, sponsored by local businessman Geoff Adam, in memory of his wife Liz. Cumbrian trainer Maurice Barnes hopes Overpriced can recapture last season’s form. War Lord has done well for Phil Kirby and has had a break since winning at Sedgefield in the autumn. Venetia Williams and Emma Lavelle also have interesting entries.

Leading Kelso owner Paul Rooney sponsors the other new valuable race in the name of Bentley Homes, of which he is chairman. Malcolm Jefferson went agonisingly close at Cheltenham with Attaglance and the Malton trainer will be hoping for better luck with his two-time Kelso winner The Panama Kid. Mark Walford is still waiting for his first success since taking over from father Tim and talented mare Fentara could be the one to break his duck.

Kelso engineering business Abbey Tool and Gauge, sponsors for the first time, and the two-mile handicap hurdle race has attracted the biggest entry on the card. The 30 entries include James Ewart’s impressive Ayr scorer Avidity.

Langholm businessman David Stevenson sponsors the handicap chase and acknowledges the input of Reg and Betty Tweedie in establishing Kelso as one of the premier National Hunt tracks. Milnathort trainer Lucinda Russell has plenty of entries and Lie Forrit, who missed Cheltenham due to the ground, would be an interesting runner as he bids to help his trainer on her way to breaking Len Lungo’s Scottish record of 63 winners in a season. Jim Goldie’s Arctic Court has an ultra-consistent record at Kelso and will be one to watch. John and Lorna Irving of the Jedforest Deer Park at Mervinslaw back the 2m 4f handicap hurdle race. Keith Dalgleish is another predominately Flat trainer also doing well with his jumpers, and is represented by Bellorophon and Nexius. Alison Hamilton has her string in fine fettle and the Denholm handler is doubly-represented by Bow School and Some Lad.

It was a game that had all the makings of being a real pot boiler.

However, neither side turned on the gas and instead of thrills and spills there was very little to enthuse over.

Neither side made much of an impact in the way of playing entertaining football, but Rovers were nevertheless delighted in gaining the three precious league points they were searching for.

The only goal of the dourly-fought clash came midway through the second half when Rovers’ Alan McMath latched on to a long clearance from keeper Chris Watson and shook off his marker before shooting into the net.

HAWICK’S Hamilton family had just cause for celebration after a memorable afternoon’s racing on Saturday.

Brothers Jamie and Tom Hamilton accounted for three of the afternoon’s seven races at the Duke of Buccleuch’s point-to-point at Friars Haugh – Tom sacrificing his final ride for a quick dash to Newcastle races, where he landed the concluding handicap hurdle race.

The 18-year-old’s Newcastle win came aboard Some Lad, owned by his uncle Gavin, whose wife Alison trains the gelding outside Denholm.

Jamie completed the second leg of his double on Cave Hunter – trained at Birnieknowe by the jockeys’ mother Wendy, who maintained a remarkable unbeaten training record on the point-to-point circuit this term.

Based in Herefordshire with trainer Venetia Williams – for whom he recently rode his first winner – Jamie began his victory trail in the opening CKD Galbraith Hunt members race with a comfortable success aboard Just Awake.

The home-bred seven-year-old, whose dam Katinka was also successful at Friars Haugh, carries the colours of Greenlaw owners Sandy and Quona Thomson.

Cave Hunter had enjoyed pillar to post victories at Alnwick and Corbridge under Tom Hamilton, but his hasty exit for Newcastle races, left elder brother Jamie to complete the hattrick – in the fastest time of the afternoon – in the Turcan Connnell NPPA Club members race.

“That was a progressive performance as it was quite a competitive race,” said Moffat farmer Niel Manning, who owns the seven-year-old.

The first leg of Tom’s racing double came in the the Lycetts men’s open race where he clinched a half-length success on Buckstruther.

A prolific winner for Hawick farmer Alastair Bell and his wife Rachel, the gelding was making a victorious seasonal pointing debut.

Yon Dora was another popular winner after the home-bred six-year-old landed the Scotty Brand Jockey Club mares maiden race for Gattonside breeder Ann Rutherford.

Ann co-owns the mare – whose dam won at the track 16 years earlier – with her trainer Maxine Bremner, an accountant from Galashiels.

Northumberland jockey Nick Orpwood celebrated his first-ever double, beginning with a five-length win in the Connolly’s Red Mills intermediate race, where Splendid Blue followed up her Jedforest maiden win for Morpeth owner Joanna Boswell.

The Orpwood double was completed by The Brig At Ayr – a four-length winner of the concluding A Hume Bladen open maiden race. The grey is trained at Ladykirk by Grand National winning trainer John Leadbetter for the Sheriffs Partnership – the Rev Fiona Sample and Hon Katie Crosbie Dawson being High Sheriffs of Northumberland. Heart Of All England 2011 victor Bitter Blue took the spoils in an exciting end to the Brewin Dolphin ladies’ open race to post a victorious seasonal debut under National ladies champion Jacqueline Coward.

Lauder sped ahead with an early double, but the Teries were soon on level terms through Jory Robertson and John Shankie.

However, the home side regained their lead before the break, and added to their tally by netting a free kick.

Rovers continued to battle and Jamie Dalgleish pulled a goal back, but any thoughts of completing the comeback died when Lauder hit their fifth.

Only one place to begin this week with Stuart Hogg becoming only the third international to be shown a red card in the 134-year history of Scottish rugby, following Nathan Hines and Scott Murray.

One can only imagine how tough it has been for the Hawick youngster. Everyone has had their say about the incident, and Stuart was the first to put his hand up and apologise.

He’s made no excuses and he knows that this incident will haunt him for the rest of his career. Interviewers will be asking him questions about it for the rest of his life.

Any punishment handed out by the powers-that-be will be nothing compared with the stigma attached to what happened. That is incredibly harsh for a moment of recklessness and for someone still in the early stages of his career to deal with, but I have no doubt Stuart will cope with this and move on.

He will feel the world is against him, but life goes on and with the support of his friends, family and colleagues I confidently predict he will bounce back and I look forward to seeing him back on the pitch as soon as possible, doing what he does best.

Remember when David Beckham was red-carded – dartboards were published in newspapers! He came back from that incident to become one of Britain’s best-loved sportsmen and ambassadors.

Worryingly on Saturday, Scotland had no answer to the Welsh free-flowing backs who were ruthless, tearing the Scottish defence apart.

There didn’t appear to be a plan B in place, which was disappointing.

Tackling was poor as Wales grew in confidence, and it was a long final hour for all Scots both on and off the pitch.

The only positives from the humiliation was that we conceded less penalties than Wales did, and for 20 minutes in the second half we stemmed the tide and threatened in attack.

But this was our worst score against Wales and our third biggest defeat in terms of points difference.

Scott Johnson’s reign is over as head coach as he becomes director of rugby.

Scottish Rugby will welcome Vern Cotter soon and we all wait to see what happens under him.

One thing is for sure, there’s not many who envy him taking the head coach job. Scotland has been starved of real success for many years, but it’s fair to say when you’ve reached the bottom the only way is up, and we wait with interest to see what he does to turn Scottish rugby around.

St Mary’s School in Melrose had a very successful day at the annual Preparatory Schools’ Cross-Country Championships.

Held at John Muir Country Park in Dunbar, the course incorporates running on grass, tarmac and sand.

St Mary’s entered a team of 30 children ranging in age from eight to 13.

There were more than 280 runners from all over Scotland.

All St Mary’s pupils completed the course and their teachers were proud of their achievements; particular congratulations must go to head girl Susannah Godfrey-Faussett, who, in her last year, took the Under-14 girls’ title, and to Ruaridh Woodland-Broome who, in his first competition, came second in the Under-10 boys’ race.

Ruaridh was also part of the most successful team, the Under-10 boys, who took gold.

Susannah and her team-mates took silver in the Under-14 girls.

A most enjoyable day.

The Border Rugby Referee Society (BRRS) is leading the way to get young people involved in rugby – not to play, but by controlling the whistle.

Following concerns about numbers coming through the system, Borders regional referee development manager Iain Heard and former high performance coach Bill Calder started a recruitment drive to bring young people and ex-players into their society through introducing a BRRS development scheme.

The scheme is modelled on the National Referee Academy, the idea being coaches are allocated three referees to mentor throughout their progress. In addition, meetings will be held for the development squad with further support available when needed.

The initial meeting was deemed a success, with nine youngsters attending and a further five expressing interest, which speaks volumes for the future of refereeing in the region.

Professional referee and member of the BRRS, Andrew McMenemy, attended the meeting to chat about his career and the opportunities available for officials.

Heard said: “There are many opportunities out there for referees and we see this programme as the first step in helping people take up these chances.

“We still need the support of the local clubs to make this scheme successful and we will be working with them over the next few months to find common ground.

“Hopefully by making this work we will be able to attract more young people or ex-players into the officiating side of the game.

“We are showing what support and development we can provide to make the process of becoming a referee, a simple one.”

In season 2013/14, two young referees have become members of the society, with a further one potential official coming through the system, their progress unfortunately hampered by an injury.

The BRRS held a meeting looking forward to season 2014/15, explaining their implementation plan and mentoring scheme that exists to make the transition into the refereeing side of the game as smooth as possible.

BEDRULE

Quiz

A quiz night will be held in the village hall on March 22 at 7.30pm – call 01450 870506 for more information and to book a table. This event will be preceded at 7pm by the hall AGM.

Bowden

WRI

Emma Emmerson, from Woodside, demonstrated planting pots for spring colour and gave gardening tips at this month’s meeting. She judged the competition – a small informal floral arrangement – 1, Betty Doyle; 2, Joyce Smith; 3, Anne Wilkie. April 9 is guest night when Sister Isabel Smyth will tell her “Nun’s Story”.

Earlston

Wednesday Club

Members were entertained last week by Trevor Black talking about antiques. Competition winners for “an antique” were Anne Falconer and Ray Murray. The next meeting is on March 26. Competition – “a dog brooch”.

Parish church

The March 23 service at 10.15am will be conducted by the Reverend Julie Woods, followed by the annual business meeting. Wednesday Lent worship continues in the church at 7pm. On March 29, the spring coffee morning in the church hall starts at 10am. The hall will be open from 9am for anyone who wishes to donate baking to the stall. Messy Church is to be held on April 5 in the church hall – contact Julie on 01896849236 for more information.

eckford

Film

The village hall will host a showing of “Yetholm – The Finest Place” at 7pm on March 24. It depicts life in Town and Kirk Yetholm, highlighting old customs and traditions, and the impact of war. The film will be followed by a question-and-answer-session with Dorothy Sharpe. To reserve a seat and for more information, email sheilaeckford@hotmail.com or phone Loraine Kay on 01835 850289.

edgerston

WRI

John Hennessey, from Kelso,talked to members about the guided climb he took up to the summit of Mount Ararat in Turkey. Competitions – oriental object – 1, Maggie Greenwood; 2, Jackie Dun; 3, Evelyn Grierson; rice dish – 1, Maggie Greenwood; 2, Evelyn Grierson; 3, Rosemary Wilkes. The raffle was won by Anne Steede.

ettrickbridge

Interest evening

This month’s interest evening at Kirkhope parish hall on March 27 at 7.30pm features a talk by Martin Scott on the Samaritans.

fala

History society

Fala, Soutra and District History and Heritage Society will meet in Fala Village Hall on March 27 at 7.30pm to hear Henry Borthwick, Oxton, talk about “Oxton and Environs”.

Galashiels

Charity fundraiser

The Golden Lion pub is hosting a fundraising evening in aid of Crohn’s and Colitis UK from 7pm tomorrow (Friday).

Inner Wheel

International Inner Wheel, of which the Galashiels club is a member, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. To mark this event, Galashiels members are holding a Wedding Belles Exhibition and are looking for wedding dresses and accessories from 1924 to the present day. All proceeds will be donated to Samantha Kinghorn, who has recovered from a life-changing accident and will be representing Scotland in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in wheelchair racing. Anyone who can help should contact Rosemary McCosh, 6 Parsonage Road, Galashiels (01896 753118). The exhibition will be held on May 10 in St Peter’s Church.

Pamper night

The YM clubrooms in Roxburgh Street are tonight (Thursday) hosting a ladies’ pamper night from 6.45pm. The event is a fundraiser for a new playgroup – Bright Stars.

glendouglas

Whist

Prize winners at the whist drive held on March 10 – ladies – 1, Hannah Wilson; 2, Jenny Blakie; 3, Greta Middlemas; booby, Pat Lindsay; gents – 1, Alistair Hogarth; 2, Angus Cameron; 3, John Currie; booby, Izzy Broady. The bingo was won by Hannah Wilson.

Lunch club

Last Wednesday’s lunch club gathering was well attended.

Party time

Today (Thursday) is Dance Party Night, with music by Gordon Brown. Bring and share supper for this event which starts at 7.30pm.

hawick

Bridge club

March 11 – N/S – 1, J. and M. Miller; 2, P. Gilligan and M. Millar; 3, M. Tuson and R. Witherington; E/W – 1, K. Auckland and D. King; 2, J. Henderson and M. Bowie; 3, L. and T. Witten.

Film and video group

Alec Peterson entertained members with a programme of railway journeys within Scotland. The first trip was on the West Highland line, starting in Glasgow and ending at Mallaig. Next came a short excursion from Edinburgh to Dundee, followed by a journey which began at Inverness and travelled the vast areas of relatively-flat wilderness to Thurso. The final route began at Dingwall on the Cromarty Firth, crossing the country to Kyle of Lochalsh. The meeting on March 25 will feature a selection of films produced by Jim Law and Bill Neil.

Camera club

The three-way inter-club competition between Liddesdale, Kelso and Hawick took place last week in the latter’s clubrooms, with Ian Oliver of Galashiels judging. The hosts clinched first place, closely followed by Kelso and Liddesdale in that order. March 23 is the date for the Borders Digital Challenge at Hawick High School, doors opening at 2pm. The next club meeting on March 27 will be “An Illustrator’s Point of View” with Laura Blackwood.

Heiton

WRI

Annie Shanks, from Standhill Dairy, Minto, gave a talk on cheese making. Competition – decorated yoghurt pot – 1, Lilian Whellans; 2, Ann Darby; 3, Elizabeth Nowakoski.

INNERLEITHEN

South Pacific

Tickets for Innerleithen and District Amateur Operatic Society’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” (March 31-April 5) are on sale at the Thrift Shop, High Street, and Graham McGrath, Eastgate, Peebles. They can also be booked by phoning 0845 224 1908 or emailing tickets@idaos.org.uk.

Coffee morning

St Ronan’s Piping Society’s annual coffee morning is in the Vale Club on March 22 (10am-noon). The society is raising funds to hold the 13th Innerleithen Pipe Band Championships, this year moving to a new venue at St Ronan’s Primary School on September 13.

Games meeting

The annual public meeting of St Ronan’s Border Games saw Keith Belleville returned as chairman. He highlighted another successful year, recalling “The Sunshine Games”. He thanked the people of Innerleithen for financial contributions and, more importantly, their participation. He also thanked the businesses who support the games through sponsorship, and mentioned the continuing support of the Ex-Standard Bearers’ Association for practical assistance and a £750 donation. The chairman pointed out that Innerleithen is changing all the time and the committee must be careful to ensure that newer residents know about the work done and have opportunities to be involved. He confirmed that fundraising had taken on a new dynamic with fewer businesses and mills in the town, and that the committee had adapted well, but more needed to be done to maintain the high standards. Secretary Stewart Wilson, in his report, noted that the senior citizens’ social was well attended and the committee continued to offer a variety of entertainment. Attendance at the Standard Bearer’s Ball was slightly down on the previous year, but the committee should not see this as a setback as more than 300 were in attendance. He confirmed that the price of tickets would increase to £32.50, having been held at £30 for the previous four years. The car treasure hunt had over 40 cars taking part. The Cleikum Ceremonies had been ticketed on a first-come, first-served basis for the first time since 2009 and that this had been successful. Outwith Games Week, it was noted the fun run had been poorly attended and would be reviewed. Two resignations were confirmed – Brenda Kerr and Dorothy McKie. The secretary thanked them for a combined service of 35 years to the games. The report concluded with tributes to life member Bobby Knox and Ex-Standard Bearer Graeme Glendinning, both of whom had passed away recently. Treasurer Norman Scott revealed a small loss of approximately £600 on the year. Officials elected – president and chairman, Keith Belleville; vice-chairman, John Robertson; secretary, Stewart Wilson; treasurer, Norman Scott; sports secretary, Sarah Lindsay; ceremonial convener, John Robertson; patron’s secretary, Ted McKie; bar convener, Gordon Fairbanks. The general committee was re-elected en bloc, with the exception of Miss Kerr and Mrs McKie. Two new members joined – Kenny Scott and Raymond Hogarth. The annual coffee morning will be held on April 19; introduction of Standard Bearer Elect, May 9; Games Week, July 10-19.

AGM

Innerleithen Civic Association’s AGM is at St Ronan’s School Community Centre on April 22.

Church

The service on March 23 starts at 11.30am.

Jedburgh

Bridge club

March 10 – Easter Pairs – 1, I. Weir and G. Young; 2, H. Long and M. Weightman; 3, V. Johnstone and M. Miller; 4, A. and R. Stewart; 5, K. Jackson and D. Cairns; 6, M. and H. Ouldcott.

kelso

Market day

A farmers’ market will be held in The Square on March 22 (9.30am-1.30pm).

Museum friends

Friends of Kelso Museum’s March talks began on the 5th with Gordon Macdonald and “Suffragettes”, delivered with an intriguing Borders slant. The second talk was held a week later, featuring Alastair Innes on 75 years of his family’s photography business in Kelso. Last night (Wednesday) Dinah Iredale’s subject was entitled “Bondagers”.

Thursday Group

Peter Neilson’s description of his work healing horses was fascinating and thought-provoking. Today, Dr James Mitchell describes the life of Eric Liddell at 2pm in Abbey Row Centre. Next week sees Isabel Gordon and “Dying for a Cuppa”, a history of tea.

Parish church

A large, appreciative audience turned up at Kelso North Church last Friday for a screening of “Sunshine on Leith” which featured The Proclaimers’. Tomorrow (Friday) at 7pm, the documentary film “I Am Breathing” is being shown. This won the 2013 BAFTA Scotland Award for best directing and was also runner-up in the best single documentary category. The parent council of Broomlands Primary School is holding a coffee morning on Saturday in the Upper Hall from 10am-noon. This Sunday the Men’s Group – men@kne – will be leading worship in Kelso North and Ednam churches. A Christian Aid roadshow is being staged at Kelso North on Sunday at 6.30pm. The trustees meet on Wednesday at 7pm, followed by the stated annual meeting of the congregation at 7.30pm. After an afternoon’s curling, members of men@kne will travel to Melrose on Thursday evening for a guided tour of the Borders Crematorium. Tickets are still on sale for the Seder Meal and Ceilidh at Kelso Rugby Club on April 11. Lent study sessions continue on Tuesdays at 2pm in St Mary’s Church, with a repeat on Thursdays at 7pm at Kelso North. Patterns for knitted teddies are available again in both churches and from the church office. The teddies will be used by Northumberland Ambulance Service.

Youth project

Kelso Youth Project Film Club presents “Hunger Games: Catching Fire” on March 27 at the Tait Hall. Doors open 6.15pm, film starts 6.30pm. For further information or to be put on the project emailing list, email ireid@yetholmtown.plus.com. The project needs volunteers for its table tennis after-school group. Anyone interested should email ireid@yetholmtown,plus.com or ring 01573 420703.

Horticultural society

On March 25, “Memories of Chelsea 2013”, a talk and floral art demonstration by Elizabeth Forster, will be held in the Tait Hall, starting at 7.30pm.

Bridge club

March 12 – SBU Easter Pairs – 1, Rena Stewart and Beth Stark; 2, Ian Watson and Stuart Graham; 3, Jean Henry and Myra Thomson; 4 (equal), Caroline Sutherland and Elinor Green, Bob Stevenson and Annie Mitchell, Jean Bunyan and Val Fairbairn. March 13 – Millennium Trophy 13 – N/S – 1, Dominic and Diana Alkin; 2, Jock Dun and Nancy Porter; 3, Rena Stewart and Maureen Weightman; E/W – 1, Jean McLaren and Ken Ross; 2, Lee Leeson and Bob Stevenson; 3, Lynda Douglas and Bill Elliot.

Embroiderers

Kelso Embroiderers’ Guild meets on March 25 at 7pm in Abbey Row Centre. Beth Asquith will give a talk entitled “Grandma’s Button Box”. Members are requested to bring their mugs.

langholm

Town Band

The Town Band, under MD Chris Shanks, recorded their best result at the Scottish championships in Perth Concert Hall. Playing in the third section for the fourth year, the band finished in sixth place and this ensures they remain in the section for the banding year. Fifty-five bands from all over Scotland competed in five sections over two days. On the Sunday Chris Shanks enjoyed further success with The Co-op Funeralcare Band. He plays first baritone for them and they won the championship section to progress to the national finals.

Opera

This year’s amateur operatic and dramatic society production is “Me and My Girl”. It runs from March 23-29 in the Buccleuch Centre.

Injured jockeys

A fundraiser organised by Colin Barnfather and friends to boost the Injured Jockeys Fund took place in the rugby clubrooms at Milntown and raised £1,716. There was an auction, quiz, raffle and light supper. Gordon Brown, from Racing UK, was in charge of proceedings and on the panel answering questions and talking about Cheltenham were trainers Jim Goldie and Stuart Coltherd, along with jockeys Brian Harding and Brian Toomey. The last named has been out with injury for some time and he gave a talk on the work carried out by the f und.

Lauder

Church

The stated annual meeting will be held in the Church Centre following a joint service in Lauder Church on March 23 at 11.30am.

makerstoun

WRI

Erica Smith showed members a variety of ways to fold table napkins as well as a film of results which could be achieved by the professionals for a bride and groom. Competitions – homemade card – 1, Mary Slater; 2, Alison Easson; 3, Kim Bone; napkin holder – 1, Mary Slater; 2, Margaret Aberdein; 3, Kim Bone. A whist drive will be held on March 26 in Makerstoun Hall.

melrose

Church

Church magazine and WFO envelopes available; March 20 – 7pm, Arthritis Research whist drive; March 23 – services at Bowden (9.30am) and Melrose (11am).

Trimontium

In the midst of the schools influx and preparations for the museum, walks and lectures season, the spring issue of “Archaeology Scotland” – the organising body for the subject, based in Musselburgh – carries the latest review of “Newstead: 1911-2011”, the book published at a launch in Melrose in January last year. It is available via the museum.

midlem

WRI

Call Gowdy, from Milestone Garden Centre, gave members the benefit of his 13 years’ experience as a gardener when he spoke about container plants. He said they were easy to grow and can flourish in small or large  areas, patios, balconies and many more different  places. His audience learned many things, including the difference between the primrose and the primula. Call brought along a good number of container plants and explained where they should be planted in the garden and looked after. The ladies asked many questions which were easily answered. Competitions – floral arrangement in an unusual container – 1, Irene Cotter; 2, Helen Pearce; 3, Dilys Wheelans; best decorated flower pot – 1, Edith Scott; 2, Sheena Combe; 3, Helen Pearce.

morebattle

AGM

The guild AGM will be held in the institute on April 3 at 7.30pm.

Coffee morning

The guild coffee morning will be held in the institute on March 29 at 10.30am.

Youth project

See Kelso section.

WRI

Rod McIntosh gave an informative talk and demonstration on the use of defibrillators. Grace Cessford gave the vote of thanks. Competitions – hand-crafted red heart – 1, Marian Dumma; 2, Helen Cessford; 3, Margaret Blackmore; pomander – 1, Nancy Anderson; 2, Margaret Blackmore; 3, Grace Cessford. There will be a sales table at the April meeting.

Hall

The village hall AGM is on March 27 at 7.30pm in the hall.

newmill

WRI

Newmill and Teviothead members brought along patterns, books, wool, thread, cakes and recipes – in fact anything they

Turn to page 28

From page 27

no longer required and someone else might use. As a result, folk went away with – in some cases more than they brought – items to have a go at knitting, sewing, scrapbooking or trying something different. The local MS society benefited from the donation box with surplus goods going to Oxfam. The outing to the donkey sanctuary in June was discussed, with suggestions for a meal afterwards, and also federation business. Competitions – old coin – 1, Sheila Gray; 2, Sheila McLaren; 3, Betty Rennie; baby article to be donated to the BGH – 1, Sheila Robson; 2, Liz Howieson; 3, Sheila Purdie. The next meeting is on April 1 when Wendy Patterson will demonstrate slate art. Competitions – painted stone and favourite apron.

OXTON

Church

The stated annual meeting will be held in the Church Centre, Lauder, following a joint service in Lauder Church on March 23 at 11.30am. On April 6, the 10am service will be back in the church.

Stow

Open mic night

Sound Out will be hosting an open mic night in Stow Town Hall on March 22. Doors open 7.30pm. This event is a fundraiser for the Stowed Out Festival. Performers should contact 07946 421576 or 07818 284922 for more information.

Walkerburn

Service

The next service in Walkerburn Public Hall will be on March 30 at 10am.

yetholm

Lunch

There will be a village lunch today (Thursday) in the Wauchope Hall from noon-2pm, with proceeds going to hall funds.

Allotments

Yetholm Yewtree Allotment Association plots are available and anyone interested should contact John Thompson (01573 420577).

Youth project

See Kelso section.

Mobile signals

The difficulty with the village Vodaphone signal seems to have been resolved for the time being. However, there are strong feelings among villagers about the service and a petition is being sent to the ombudsman. Copies of the petition are available for signature at a number of local outlets.

Church

For some years the local kirk has bonded – via visits – to Possilpark Church in Glasgow which recently welcomed a new minister, and Yetholm and the associated churches were represented on that occasion. The guild’s annual general meeting will take place in Yetholm Kirk at 2.30pm on Tuesday, March 25, when Olivia Gale will be addressing members.

The British relationship with animals isn’t so much complicated as peculiar.

At one end of the spectrum there is anthropomorphic pet-owning, cats doing “amusing” things on YouTube and ridiculous events like Crufts dog show. At the other, in spite of the best efforts of vegetarians and vegans, we’re still a meat-eating society and for most of the time, apart from the occasional horsemeat revelation, we don’t much care how that meat reaches us. Who wants to get back to the good old days when food accounted for about one third of household spending instead of the present one tenth?

Between the extremes there are some of the reported reactions in the past week or so to jockey Ruby Walsh’s quite legitimate view that horses are replaceable, humans are not; whether ritual Muslim and Jewish methods of slaughter should be banned; whether animal testing on animals such as beagles is justified by helping advances in medicine for humans; a report on intensive pig, poultry and dairy cow farming asking whether such systems need to be rethought; and whether low or no care extensive systems for sheep, as practiced in Australia and New Zealand, is acceptable on British farms.

There are no easy answers, but the gap often seems to be between those who work with animals for a living – jockeys, farmers and stockmen, research workers testing animals, slaughtermen, meat processors, butchers – and those who think of them as humans with four legs or, in the case of poultry, two legs and feathers.

Most of those who earn a living working with animals treat them with respect, but not sentimentality. Not all, of course. There are cases of animal cruelty involving horse trainers and farmers just as there are involving dog and cat owners with their pets. But it makes commercial sense, if nothing else, to treat animals with consideration if the intention if to make a profit.

Intensive livestock farming is never likely to produce agreement between those who practice it and animal welfare campaigners who oppose it. The recent inquiry by the RSPCA, even if billed as independent, indicates that. Chairman of the inquiry, solicitor Duncan McNair said: “I am concerned that 90% of UK poultry is now factory farmed, one third of pigs never get to exhibit their natural foraging or societal instincts and about 15% of cows are zero-grazed (never out at grass).”

Apart from jibbing at the emotive “factory farmed” label, farmers can argue that methods can only change if the public is prepared to pay more for meat and livestock products. Chicken is the prime example. When shoppers can buy an intensively reared chicken for about £2 they do. Some because they can afford no more, others because they think why pay £6 to £10 for a free-range or organic bird?

The British relationship with animals isn’t so much complicated as peculiar.

At one end of the spectrum there is anthropomorphic pet-owning, cats doing “amusing” things on YouTube and ridiculous events like Crufts dog show. At the other, in spite of the best efforts of vegetarians and vegans, we’re still a meat-eating society and for most of the time, apart from the occasional horsemeat revelation, we don’t much care how that meat reaches us. Who wants to get back to the good old days when food accounted for about one third of household spending instead of the present one tenth?

Between the extremes there are some of the reported reactions in the past week or so to jockey Ruby Walsh’s quite legitimate view that horses are replaceable, humans are not; whether ritual Muslim and Jewish methods of slaughter should be banned; whether animal testing on animals such as beagles is justified by helping advances in medicine for humans; a report on intensive pig, poultry and dairy cow farming asking whether such systems need to be rethought; and whether low or no care extensive systems for sheep, as practiced in Australia and New Zealand, is acceptable on British farms.

There are no easy answers, but the gap often seems to be between those who work with animals for a living – jockeys, farmers and stockmen, research workers testing animals, slaughtermen, meat processors, butchers – and those who think of them as humans with four legs or, in the case of poultry, two legs and feathers.

Most of those who earn a living working with animals treat them with respect, but not sentimentality. Not all, of course. There are cases of animal cruelty involving horse trainers and farmers just as there are involving dog and cat owners with their pets. But it makes commercial sense, if nothing else, to treat animals with consideration if the intention if to make a profit.

Intensive livestock farming is never likely to produce agreement between those who practice it and animal welfare campaigners who oppose it. The recent inquiry by the RSPCA, even if billed as independent, indicates that. Chairman of the inquiry, solicitor Duncan McNair said: “I am concerned that 90% of UK poultry is now factory farmed, one third of pigs never get to exhibit their natural foraging or societal instincts and about 15% of cows are zero-grazed (never out at grass).”

Apart from jibbing at the emotive “factory farmed” label, farmers can argue that methods can only change if the public is prepared to pay more for meat and livestock products. Chicken is the prime example. When shoppers can buy an intensively reared chicken for about £2 they do. 
Some because they can afford no more, others because they think why pay £6 to £10 for a free-range or organic bird? Animals are treated with respect but not sentementality

wooler

At their fortnightly sale last week John Swan Ltd had forward and sold 357 store cattle.

The annual show for the Robin Scott Trophy was also held which was kindly sponsored by Minsups, represented by Nikki Gilbertson and expertly judged by David Carins, Gardeners Houses, who awarded the championship to Messrs RW and K Telford, Branton East Side for a Lim.x Steer weighing 410kg and selling at £1150 to the Judge. Reserve Champion went to Messrs E Carse and Son, South Ord for a Lim.x Steer weighing 430kg and selling at £1080 to Messrs S and J Allen, Longnewton.

Buyers turned up in numbers all looking for cattle resulting in returns greater than expectations. More cattle could easily be sold at this centre to advantage.

At their weekly primestock sale John Swan Ltd had forward and sold 767 hoggs and 134 ewes.

Hoggs forward in greater numbers. Quality types the dearest trade of the year, tail ends appearing.

Leading prices per head:- Sfx:- £103.50p Ford Westfield, £100 Ford Westfield, Howtel, £98.50p Craigs House, £97.50p Brandon, £95 Ford Westfield. Tex:- £102 Hartside A Hutcheon), £99, £98 Ford Westfield, £94 South Charlton. CM:- £88 South Charlton. Suf:- £98 Mindrum Farming Co. Bla:- £85 Linhope Farming (Hartside), Mules:- £93.50p Ladykirk, Ford Westfield, £89 Craigs House, £87 West Longridge, Ladykirk, £85 West Longridge. BF:- £85 Ladykirk, £84 South Charlton (M Hall). Zwa:- £94.50p Mindrum (TP Fairfax). Cha:- £90 Craigs House. Bel:- £86 Ladykirk.

Leading prices per kilo:- Tex:-221.3p Ladykirk, 220.5p Yetlington lane, 220.3p Moorlaws, 218.9p Mindrum Farming Co, 218.8p Kimmerston, Greystonnes. Sfx:- 217.5p Greystonnes, 215.9p Mindrum Farming Co, 213.4p Moorlaws. Bla:- 202.4p Linhope Farming (Hartside). Mules:- 205.1p Shotton, 205p West Longridge, 202.6p Moorlaws, 202.4p, 202.3p West Longridge, 202.3p Craigs House. Chv:- 218.8p South Charlton (M Hall), 215p South Charlton, 214.3p Greystonnes, 213.5p Shotton. Chx:- 208.1p Mindrum Farming (TP Fairfax), 202.4p Linhope Farming (Hartside) Bel:- 220.5p, 215.8p Ladykirk.

st boswells

At their weekly primestock sale on Monday John Swan Ltd sold 93 clean cattle, 44 OTM cattle, 1,496 old season hoggs and 472 ewes.

Bullocks (34) averaged 218.7p per kg and sold to 255p (+4.8p on week), heifers (55) averaged 213.4p per kg and sold to 250p (-4.6p on week), four young bulls averaged 180.8p per kg and sold to 185p (+9.8p on the week) and 44 beef type OTM cattle averaged 131.3p per kg and sold to 164p (n/c on the week).

Old season SQQ hoggs averaged 218.5p per kg +9.1p on week) and sold to £114 and averaged £92.40 per head while ewes averaged £65.64, and sold to £115. Heavy ewes £78, light ewes £56.15.

Principal prices per head: Shidlaw £1583.30; Bee Edge £1542.75, £1476, £1475; Upper Nisbet £1488.50; Longnewton and Inland Pastures £1445.40.

Principal Prices per kg: Bee Edge 2.55 M/s WTS Forsyth and Sons, 2.50 Robert Wilson Butcher Edinburgh, 2.49 M/s J Gilmour and Co Ltd, 2.48 W Taylor (Lockerbie), 2.40 M/s Cropper; Upper Hundalee 2.41 M/s TA Shaw, 2.31 M/s J Gilmour and Co Ltd, 2.29 Malone of Edinburgh; Grahamslaw 2.39 Malone of Edinburgh; Longnewton 2.38 Malone of Edinburgh; Lennoxlove 2.38 Denholm Meat Supplies; Upper Nisbet 2.37 M/s WTS Forsyth an Sons, 2.29 M/s Cropper; Caverton Mill 2.36 Malone of Edinburgh; Shidlaw 2.35 M/s WTS Forsyth and Sons; Outerston 2.29 Gosford Bothy Shop.

Cows per head: Thrunton £1288, £1057; Stagehall £1110.90; Woodhouse. J £1099.80, £1098.80; Grahamslaw £1080.40, £1014.70; Halidean Mill £1037.40, £1011.36; Phantassie £1035, £954.60; Aikeyside £997.50; Branton East Side £1028.10, £986.90, £944.70; West Mains £952.50.

Cows per kg: Woodhouse. J 1.64, 1.56; Hyndlee £1.51; Phantassie 1.50, 1.48, 1.44; Aikeyside 1.50; Branton East Side 1.49 (2), 1.41; Grahamslaw 1.48, 1.39; Corsbie(Fullerton) 1.43, 1.41; Thrunton 1.40 (2).

Hoggs per head: Suff.x;- £114, £113 Clochnahill, £110 Lurdenlaw and Berryhill, Tex.x;- £110 West Mains. L, £108 Lurdenlaw and West Mains. L, Char;- £110 Clochnahill, Chev;- £104 The Whitehouse, Swinside, £103, £100 Lurdenlaw, Rye;- £96 Clochnahill, HB;- £95 Gillahill, Chev.x;- £93 Gillahill and Saughtree, GF;- £92.50 Westwood, Zwa;- £91 Billiemains, CM;- £90 Wester Ulston, BFL;- £90 Hartside, BF;- £86 Hutlerburn.

Hoggs per kg: Tex.x;- 236.3 Housebyres, 235.7 Gillahill, 233.8 Swinnie, Suff.x;- £232.1 The Knock, 229.7 Threepwood, 229.3 Gillahill, Chev;- 227.9 Saughtree, 227.4 Thorlieshope, 225 Wester Ulston, Char;- 219.4 Woodhouse. J, GF;- 215.1 Westwood, 211.9 Thistle Doo, EC;- 211.1 Bedrule, CM;- 209.3 Wester Ulston, BF;- 200 Bedrule and Larriston.

border livestock

During last week Border Livestock Exchange Ltd to week sold 172 prime cattle including 70 cast cows, 1,467 prime sheep, 348 cast ewes, 245 store and breeding cattle.

Charolais cross heifers sold to 387p per kg and £1,277 from New Smailholm Farm, Kelso. Aberdeen Angus cross heifers sold to 390per kg to Well Hung and Tender, Berwick.

Cast cows continue to reach satisfactory levels with numbers well up for this time of year. Leading prices:- Simmental crosses to 275p per kg and £1,259. Dairy cows from Kelloe Mains, Duns, hit the high spot at £1,208. Other dairy cows to £1,136 per head from Edinburgh University Farm, Roslin. Pure Limousin cows to £1,427 per head. Major consignment of 29 Continental Ccrosses average £1,051 per head to a top of £1,194.

The Sheep trade finally livened up as numbers begin to dry up. Export lambs from Great Tosson, Rothbury, sold to 440p per kg while light weight lambs from Barnsley sold to 430p per kg for Pure Swales. Store cattle continue to sell extremely well with many lots 40 kgs heavier than the previous year’s cattle. Quality lots were also dearer per kg in many cases. Luing cows to £2,000 for calvers.

This Saturday sees two of the oldest rivals in Borders rugby fight it out for the RBS Premiership silverware – but at grounds four miles apart.

The champions could be current league leaders Gala, if the Maroons can break a 31-year hoodoo and lift the trophy at Netherdale by beating last season’s champions, Ayr.

Or four miles away at The Greenyards, where neighbours Melrose, who take on Currie, could end up celebrating.

If Gala win, it will be the first top-flight championship for the Netherdale club since former international David Leslie skippered the side to the last of their first division titles in 1983.

The permutations if Gala do not win are on our website.

Speaking ahead of the weekend’s title decider, Gala fullback Andy McLean, who recently made his 300th appearance for the club, said 31 years was too long.

“I recently made my 300th appearance for the club up in Stirling, but I’d give that all up to win the title,” he said.

Gala president Scott Dalgleish said victory will mean everything to the club and all those who have worked so hard for this moment. 
He told us: “The last five years have seen everyone at the club driven to get us where we are today. We lost out narrowly last year, so if we can manage it on Saturday, it will be massive for the coaches, players – all at the club. It’s been a long time for the cupboard to be bare.”

And Dalgleish praised the work of Gala coach George Graham.

“George has had a huge impact and commands the respect of all the players.

“It might be a bit of a cliche, but we really do have a great bunch of boys who play for each other.”

For his part, Melrose coach John Dalziel knows all his team can control is their match against Currie.

“Whatever happens on Saturday, we’ve had a very successful season. We just have to focus on our own game.

“Currie have won six of their last seven games and drew one, so we can’t really be looking past that at the moment.

“If we win, it will be 15 wins and that’s more than anyone else in the league.

“I realise it’s all been about Gala this week and that’s understandable – I’ve got great admiration for George and what he and his team has achieved.

“And it has to be good for Border rugby to have the top two form teams of the season from this area.”

Both matches will kick off at 3pm on Saturday. Elsewhere in the RBS Premiership, Hawick take on Heriot’s at Mansfield Park, also at 3pm.

See page 80 for fixtures.

I have returned – and I can already hear some readers’ cries: “Oh no! We thought the editor had seen sense and pulled Grey Matter out by the roots.” Nae such luck.

However, I know many of you have missed this column over the past six weeks. I know this because when I returned from holidays and a week looking after the Hawick News, loyal readers had left electronic messages wondering where I was and if I was coming back to electronically pen this weekly column. Well, one reader did.

Thank you Joan Davidson for your kind email enquiry and inspiring words after I had confirmed to you by return email that Grey would indeed be Mattering this week. And thank you to the many (and there were) who stopped me in the street or in the shop or cafe and expressed the profound hope that Grey Matter had not been put out to graze.

Let me explain my absence. Last year, for various reasons, I didn’t manage to take my holiday entitlement by the due date of December 31.

Hence, I was off for the whole of February – the shortest month of the year and I’m still trying to work out if I’ve been diddled out of a couple days.

The first week was spent planning a bit of home decorating, and clearing out a cupboard that’s bursting at the seams and an attic that is putting much too much strain on the rafters.

The second week was spent not doing any home decorating, not clearing out a cupboard bursting at the seams, nor an attic that’s putting too much of a strain on the rafters. I did very little, but enjoyed a bus-pass trip to Galashiels and to that other capital, Edinburgh.

Week Three, I had decided, would my away week.

My late dad worked for Morrison and Murray, the engineers in Gala, and spent two weeks each year carrying out maintenance and repairs at the tweed mill, Hunters of Brora.

I have only been a couple of times, but had a hankering to return and booked (50p) a bus -pass seat on a luxury coach departing Edinburgh 12.30pm and travelling to the far north-east via Inverness.

On the due day I boarded the trusty X95 and got as far as Bowland where a jack-knifed lorry was blocking the road. It was back to Gala and an assurance from a Firstbus employee in a white shirt that we would be going straight up the A68. We did. For a bit. And then we turned left and trundled across country somewhere around Tynehead to join the A7 (fighting re-routed traffic coming the other way) where the trusty X95 once again became a city service.

I missed my Brora connection by seven minutes. I was miffed and headed for The Hebrides in Market Street to replan my Week Three.

A call to my son, Matthew, and his laptop had me booked into the Rob Roy Hotel at Aberfoyle. A train to Stirling and a bus took me there.

I stayed three nights and enjoyed some wonderful company, not least on my last evening which was the start of a line-dancing convention arranged by a lovely bunch from Glasgow.

Yes, I admit it. Grey Matter learned the elementary steps of line dancing. The music was still reeling in my heid as I headed next day for Dunoon.

Week Four was spent wondering what I had done.

Police are still hunting the raiders who made off with jewellery worth over £33,000 from a house in Melrose at the weekend.

An appeal for any witnesses who may have noticed anything suspicious has been issued by police following the break-in.

As well as the valuable haul of jewellery stolen from the property in the town’s Waverley Road, the thieves also got away with a tablet device. In an official statement issued this week, police said the property had been broken into while the owners were away on holiday.

The incident is now being progressed by the police’s Operation RAC and anyone with any information who can assist police with their enquiries is asked to come forward.

Constable Corrine Bird said: “Officers were called to Waverley Road at around 10am on Saturday, March 15 after a neighbour spotted that a house on the street had been broken into. An iPad2 and jewellery worth more than £33,000 were taken and other items were recovered in a neighbouring field.

“Police have been carrying out door-to-door enquiries and we urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area to come forward.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.