A husband who assaulted his wife while on deferred sentence for a domestic-related incident was jailed for four months.

Darryll Stanton prevented his wife from leaving their home at Hillend Drive, Hawick, on July 1, kicked her on the body, and punched her on the body and face.

The 38-year-old had the jail term backdated to July 3.

Prosecutor Claire Bottomley said the couple had been out shopping in Hawick, stopping for a couple of drinks on the way home.

Friends had joined them at the house, but Stanton asked them to leave around 7.30pm and lost his temper with his wife, grabbing and attacking her.

Ms Bottomley said Stanton prevented his wife from leaving the house, but she managed to run to a neighbour for help.

“She was highly distressed, with blood on her face and arms, and bruising to her upper arm,” added Ms Bottomley.

The woman was treated by paramedics. She was taken to Borders General Hospital after complaining of stomach pains, receiving pain relief en route, and later discharged herself.

Stanton’s lawyer, Ross Dow, conceded his client, who appeared from custody, was on deferred sentence for a domestic incident, also involving his wife.

Mr Dow went on: “He is well aware he needs to address his problems. They have been married for a year-and-a-half, but the relationship is now at an end and he intends to return to the south of England.”

Sheriff Kevin Drummond told Stanton: “In February this year you were involved in an incident with your wife and the court gave you the opportunity of demonstrating you were capable of changing your behaviour.

“On July 1, you carried out a significant assault on the same woman, while on bail and deferred sentence.

“You do not acknowledge that your behaviour is controlling and are assessed as an imminent risk of harm to your partner.

“It is clear that you are of a bullying nature. In this combination of circumstances, I consider that custody is the appropriate disposal.”

TEST PASSED – THEN BANNED

Having only passed his test a week earlier, Adam Hall was caught driving while over twice the alcohol limit.

The 21-year-old, of Wilton Hill, Hawick, pleaded guilty to driving a car at Princes Street and Langlands Road, in the town, on June 22 with a breath/alcohol reading of 93 mcgs – the legal limit being 35.

Police stopped the accused at 2am and noticed he was smelling of alcohol and that his speech was slurred.

Defence solicitor Ross Dow said: “He had just passed his test the week before and stupidly decided to go and get his car. He drove 500 yards before he realised how stupid he was and turned back to drive home.

“He didn’t have lights on, so the police stopped him.”

The solicitor described his client as “a sensible young man with a full-time job” adding: “This was a foolish act and he is suitably regretful and contrite.”

Sheriff Kevin Drummond fined Hall – a first offender – £300 and banned him from driving for 12 months.

TEENAGER DISQUALIFIED

A drunken teenager, found sleeping in a friend’s car, was fined £550 and banned from driving for eight months.

First offender Dale Whillans, 17, of Longcroft Road, Hawick, was fined £225 and banned from driving for eight months after he admitted being in charge of a car at Buccleuch Road in the town on June 8 with a breath/alcohol reading of 63 mcgs – the legal limit being 35. He was admonished after he admitted taking away the vehicle without the owner’s consent at Crumelknowes, Hawick.

The teenager, who works as a forester, was fined £225 after he pleaded guilty to using the vehicle without insurance in Buccleuch Road, and a further £100 for not having a full licence.

Prosecuting, Claire Bottomley said: “Police received a call at around 3am about a male sleeping in a vehicle in Buccleuch Road. They found the accused in the driver’s seat and he failed a roadside breath test.”

Ed Hulme, defending, said his client made a foolish mistake.

UNPAID WORK FOR FRAUDSTER

A financial agent who obtained almost £4,000 by fraud was sentenced to 180 hours of unpaid work.

Lorna Waddell, 40, of Orchard Park, Kelso, admitted obtaining £3,936.82 by fraud while working as an agent for Provident Financial Management Services Ltd.

The first offender induced five clients to sign loan applications, saying she would receive the capital and repay the loan instalments, in Kelso between February 1, 2012, and February 20, 2013.

“She received the cash and no payments were made,” explained prosecutor Claire Bottomley.

Waddell also admitted, while acting as an agent for the same company, embezzling £697.75 at her home between November 1, 2012, and March 12, 2013.

Ed Hulme, defending, said Waddell was no longer employed by the firm and was working as a part-time cleaner.

Sheriff Kevin Drummond told Waddell: “You were in a position of trust and you abused that for your personal benefit. The sum involved could justify a custodial sentence, but you are a 40-year-old first offender and in these circumstances I am able to deal with this by an alternative to custody.”

CAUGHT WITH DRUGS

A Kelso man found with illegal drugs was fined £317.

Ricky King, 37, of Eschie Court, was fined £267 after he admitted possession of diamorphine at Edenside Road, Kelso, on November 27 last year. He was fined a further £50 for possession of phenazepam, a class C drug.

Police searched the accused and found brown powder, confirmed as diamorphine, worth £55, and one blue tablet, confirmed as phenazepam.

‘HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST’ FINED

A drunken man who assaulted his best man’s niece in a Kelso pub was fined £265.

Fifty-seven-year-old first offender George Lees, of Pinnaclehill Park, Kelso, was fined £100 after he pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at the Black Swan on March 15. He was fined a further £165 when he also admitted assaulting a woman by seizing her by the throat, causing her to fall to the ground to her injury.

Prosecutor Claire Bottomley said a group of girls had been sitting at a table in the pub when they noticed Lees moving closer to them. When he ran his finger up the back of one girl’s arm, she tried to ignore him. He put his elbows on the table, was told the girls were having a private conversation and asked not to intrude.

Lees told one of the girls she was “f*****g morbidly obese”.

The prosecutor went on: “He stood up and seized hold of one of the girls by the throat and she fell to the ground and suffered a one-inch cut to her back.”

Lees, who described himself as a human rights activist, said the offence happened on the most traumatic day of his life, following divorce proceedings, and he had resorted to alcohol. He added: “It was also the same day as the rugby international, and Scotland got beat. I was very drunk.”

Lees said the girl had asked her boyfriend to put him out of the pub.He said he was ashamed of his behaviour, later discovering the girl’s uncle was his best man.

Sheriff Kevin Drummond told the accused: “You describe yourself as a human rights activist. One of the essences is the right of people not to listen, if they are not so inclined. You did not appear to respect that on March 15 in Kelso.”

BOILING WATER ALLEGATION

A 73-year-old Hawick man, alleged to have poured boiling water over a woman, is due to face a jury on August 11.

Alexander Morgan, c/o Howegate, appeared on indictment and denied assaulting a woman at a house at Towerknowe, Hawick, on October 24, seizing her by the hair, dragging her into the kitchen and pouring boiling water on her body, to her injury. He also pleaded not guilty to assaulting the same woman on October 25 by repeatedly cutting her on the body with a knife to her injury.

A further first hearing was set for August 1.

AUGUST JURY TRIAL

A Galashiels man who denies drugs charges had a further first hearing set for August 8.

Murray Yule, 37, of Beech Avenue, appeared on indictment and pleaded not guilty to being concerned in the supply of cannabis and amphetamine at his home between October 26 and December 20, 2012. He also denies possession of cannabis on November 1, 2012.

The accused is due to stand trial by jury on August 11.

CANNABIS CHARGE

A 35-year-old man charged with being concerned in the supply of cannabis on the A1 at Reston will stand trial by jury on September 8 at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Paul McPherson, of River Street, Falkirk, appeared on indictment, pleading not guilty to the offence which is alleged to have been committed on October 30 last year.

A further first hearing was set for August 18.

Despite a spirited showing, a depleted Gala side lost by eight wickets to Hawick in a Borders Under-14 League match at Meigle Park.

In a game reduced to 16 overs a side, due to the wet weather, Hawick put the hosts into bat first and, following a shaky start, Gala got themselves back into the game and finished on 59 for 4.

Alexander and Johnston got Hawick off to a flying start before being pegged back by Gammie and Rutherford.

Some accurate bowling from Hastings accounted for both openers, but Brogan and Welsh saw the visitors home in the 12th.

Gala secured a well-deserved 28-run win over Selkirk in the Border 20/20 League at Philiphaugh last Thursday night.

Selkirk won the toss and put the visitors into bat.

Opener David Boland was in good form until he was bowled for 22, while Jack Halls and Duncan Millar looked set to put on a decent partnership until a disastrous run-out saw the latter dismissed for 7.

Halls soon vacated for 18 after edging the ball to Grant Kinghorn to leave Gala at 50 for 3 in the ninth over.

Kris Mein and Dinesh Tharanga slowly rebuilt the innings and, when Mein (13) was dismissed, Kenny Paterson and Tharanga carried on to add 31 runs.

The visitors made the perfect start by dismissing Selkirk skipper John Everitt for a duck. Darren Fenton smashed 10 runs in five balls before being bowled by Tharanga, who also accounted for Greg Fenton (9).

At 22 for 3, Selkirk were in trouble and, despite the efforts of Rory Banks (14) and Kinghorn (19), they never recovered.

Gala secured their first win in the Border Sunday League this season with a three-wicket victory over Selkirk at Meigle Park.

Having been put in to bat first, the visitors were in danger of collapse when at 18 for 5, but Darren Fenton (41), supported by Kyle Easson (24 not out), managed to get the Souters up to 105 all out.

In reply, Gala lost Jack Halls to the second ball, but Kenny Paterson (20), Robbie Irvine (17), Robbie Pringle (22) and Craig Thomson (20) steadied the ship.

Gala lost two more wickets to leave the hosts 96 for 7, needing another 10 to win. But Max Hastings and Jason Anthony stayed calm to see them home.

The local athletics scene stages a double-bill attraction this weekend, with Langholm Games on Friday and Oxton Games the following day, writes John Slorance.

One of the main events on the Langholm card is the 90m championship, a non-handicap event, and a trio of Jedburgh sprinters are poised gun for the coveted crown.

They are: Craig Gillan, the recent winner of the Jedburgh Games 110m handicap; Craig Grieve, victor of the St Ronan’s Games 110m championship last weekend, plus the “Flying Turk” Iskan Barskanmay.

Another Border representative in a class field at the Castleholm is Hawick’s Leigh Marshall, while Tom Holligan of Edinburgh is hot favourite, following his convincing win in the 100m championship at Jedburgh Games.

Handicapper Don Campbell has listed Holligan as back marker for the 90m handicap and the strong- running Edinburgh man goes from scratch.

Among the Border runners in the Castleholm track sprint handicap are: Martha Douglas, Jed AC (19m); Mhairi Henderson, TLJT (20.5m); Fraser Neil, Kelso (6.5m); Kerr Gerrard, Selkirk (8m); and Drew Bryson, Hawick (20m).

Bidding to put victory the Muckle Toon’s way in the 1,600m handicap is Langholm’s own Ryan Milligan, who runs from 215m.

In-form Jason McIntosh of Kelso (110m) is liable to show up well in this race, as is Hawick’s Stewart Fraser (100m).

Like the Langholm meeting, Oxton Games also has an exciting look about it.

After having been dead and buried for many years, Oxton Games have been resurrected of late and have been a welcome and popular addition to Border Games calendar.

Among the many events that will take place at Justicehall Haugh are the youths’ 90m handicap A and B races.

Throughout the season, the youths’ sprints have brought about some excellent running as well as great excitement.

Borders youngsters in the A race include Hugh Robinson, TLJT (7.5m); Rowan McKean, Hawick (14m); Connor Gillan, Kelso (9m); Cameron Fisher, Jed AC (14m; and Daisy Peacock, Leithenburn (21.5m).

The six-heat B race includes Kieran Hayes, Jed AC (22m); Carla Latto, Peebles (30m); Jessica Woodhouse, Leithenburn (18m); Cameron Falconer, TLJT (25m); Cian Riddell, Hawick (26.5m); and Archie Fuller, Chirnside (26m).

A full programme of other events completes both the Langholm (1.30pm) and Oxton (12.30pm) cards.

Ettrick Forest Riders’ Association were well represented at British Riding Club’s Area One dressage and show jumping qualifiers earlier this month.

Competing at the national equestrian centre near Broxburn, the novice dressage team of Louise Clark/Crème Brulee, Rebecca Dun/Rubin Aotea, Paula Whitson/Ganton Royale and Fiona Mercer/Charlie rode well and finished second, just off the qualifying position.

The open team of Jill King/Mylo, Carolyn Gospel/Willamy Twinkle, Laura Sanderson/Tamarosa and Louise Clark/Coco won their qualifier in a strong competition. Laura, Jill and Carolyn took the first three places respectively in this event.

In the individual classes, Carolyn took a second, Laura fourth and Rebecca sixth in their sections.

For the first time in many years, the Borders group had representatives in the dressage to music class, with Laura Sanderson/Tamarosa second and Jill King/Arnie third in the novice.

Jill was also first and second in the elementary class, with Mylo and Arnie, and qualified for the BRC Championships at Bury Farm, Leighton Buzzard, later in the year.

Sunday was the jumping day and the local club was represented by Rebecca Dun, Paula Whitson, Katie Farnsworth/Wally and Lorna Pate/Millie.

All four jumped exceedingly well and won their team section on a zero score, qualifying for BRC Championships at Lincoln Showground in September.

The quartet also competed in the style jumping class, but did not finish in a qualifying position.

The vital efforts of volunteers in Borders communities was highlighted during a successful Games Week in Innerleithen.

Principal guest at the Cleikum Ceremonies on Friday evening, Alan Thomson, praised all those who put so much into ensuring the event went ahead year-on-year.

Mr Thomson is a long-term supporter of Games Week and is a founding member of the town’s Christmas lights group.

He also paid tribute to those who had played an important role in Games Week in the past, including his late father-in-law Walker McLaren, chairman for 29 years.

Mr Thomson added: “In a society where you rarely get anything for free, we are lucky enough to have a number of volunteers who turn up and do their bit.

“Volunteers don’t get paid, but it is not because they are worthless, it is because they are priceless.”

However, he said: “Innerleithen has expanded greatly, and in my mind more people should mean more help, more input, more energy – it is easy maths – but it does mean encouraging youngsters to become involved.”

Mr Thomson concluded: “Walker showed me the ropes. He was an Innerleithen stalwart and played a huge part in not only the growth of the Games, but also in helping out in the community.

“I can see a little bit of Walker in Mr President, Keith Belleville – the Games are in good hands, as are the silver band, the opera and our excellent primary school!”

At the Cleikum Ceremonies, Dux Boy Alex Paterson was invested with the crozier and Dux Girl Estelle Nguyen installed by Mr Thomson’s wife Isobel.

Ex-Standard Bearer Lyle Caine returned the Blue Banner unsullied and untarnished before Robbie Scott was installed by Mr Belleville.

Speaking to The Southern after the ceremony at St Ronan’s Wells later on Friday, Standard Bearer Robbie Scott said: “I’m proud to be in the history books now, and to put a mark down, so to speak.

“It has been a busy and tiring week, but it is a brilliant feeling.”

Standard Bearer’s Lass Rachel Lauder said the Cleikum Ceremonies was the “most nerve-wracking” bit for her, although Robbie added that for him the build-up was actually worse than making his speech.

More than 400 children took part in the flower parade on Saturday, with a sponsored truck-pull by the Ex-Standard Bearers’ Association bringing up the rear of the procession.

Unfortunately, the weather failed to hold out for Beating the Retreat later in the day.

Mr Belleville said: “The weather conditions for the first 20 minutes of this year’s Retreat can only be described as monsoon-like.

“However, an amazing number of townsfolk and visitors lined both sides of the High Street to support their bands and enjoy the music.”

Games Week concluded with the Burning of the De’il and fireworks display.

Mr Belleville said: “We’re blessed in Innerleithen to have a very strong community spirit. There’s a real ‘can-do’ attitude and this is perfectly illustrated when you consider the 10-day festival that we manage to produce every year.

“Yes, the committee works hard to draw everything together, but there are also a huge number of other people who carry out many other tasks to ensure the success of the Games.”

He said the town was “extremely proud” of the principals and added: “All our events have been extremely well supported and I’d like to record my thanks to townsfolk and visitors alike who came along and took part to help make it a brilliant occasion once again.”

The Graham White Kelso Civic Week Tournament was held in good weather with more than 25 people in attendance throughout the day at the tennis and barbecue.

The winners were Senior: Pat McDowall and Junior: Cameron Brown (pictured, with David Laing, who presented the trophies). Kelso Orchard Tennis Club wish to thank Lesley Thomas and assistants for running such a successful day. Those in attendance also enjoyed a visit from both Graham White and members of the Kelso Laddies Association. This was truly appreciated and the club wished Kelso Laddie Ross Henderson every success.

With the Glasgow Commonwealth Games under way, Borders swimmer Lucy Hope has received the best preparation – thanks to support from the Rowan Boland Memorial Trust.

The 17-year-old from Crailing received £500 to help with her pre-Games training and competition schedule.

Lucy, part of the Borders Elite Swim Team, will compete in the 4x200m freestyle relay event for Scotland, with the action at the Tollcross International Swimming Centre beginning today (Thursday) until Tuesday.

David Boland, chairman of the trust, said: “We wish Lucy all the best and hope the Commonwealth Games is just the start of a long and successful international career.”

Ryan Brown of Ednam, who narrowly missed out on the Commonwealth Games swimming squad, received £500 from the trust, while fellow swimmer Lizzie Clelland of Earlston picked up £250.

Gymnast Kamile Gimbutyte of Melrose received £200, while Katelynn Pringle (football, £200), Rae Anderson (judo, £150) and Rebbecca Abbott (highland dancing, £100) were the other grant recipients.

For more information on the work and aims of the trust, visit its website at www.rowanbolandmemorial
trust.co.uk

Flapping fans can look forward to another meeting on the calendar thanks to the hard work and persistence of Selkirk Flapping Association.

Following the growing success of the Selkirk Common Riding meeting, held annually in June, some valiant fundraising and continued improvements to the course, organisers announced this week that an extra meeting will take place at Gala Rig on Saturday, August 9, with the first race going under starter’s orders at 2pm.

Selkirk Flapping Association clerk of the course Stuart Hogarth told The Southern: “A great deal of work has taken place since Selkirk Common Riding by a very hard-working committee to drum up the sponsorship and donations required to hold a second meeting.

“This fundraising has enabled us to pay out reasonable prize money on raceday itself, which will in turn attract owners to enter their horses.

“Additionally, it has enabled us to pay for the necessary insurances, and facilities required to hold such an event.”

The committee, consisting of: Stuart; Craig Stanners (convener); Alasdair Craig (assistant clerk); Gary Haldane and Andy Black (judges); Kenny Firth, Euan Hastie, James Cheyne, Guy Blair, Gavin Henderson (stewards); Colin Blaikie (clerk of scales); and Mathew Stanners (assistant) are indebted to the generous attitudes of local businesses, organisations, and individuals alike, without whom, they say, the new meeting would simply not be possible.

Stuart told us: “It is evident that there is a great deal of community spirit and generosity in Selkirk, and that is something that we should be proud of.

“More sponsorship, however, means more races, so if anyone would like to help us along by way of donation, no matter how small, every penny helps in being able to provide a real spectacle on August 9, and one that the people of Selkirk can come along to and enjoy.”

The organising group also hopes that if the meeting is a success, they will eventually be able to put something back into the community financially.

Stuart said: “I hope that this is something we will be able to cement into the Borders flapping calendar for years to come, along with the already successful meeting that we have on the Common Riding afternoon.”

Five races are planned during the afternoon; four professional and, the last, a pony race where any child who wishes to (with parents’ permission) can enter their own pony, either on the day or ideally before the event, by contacting Stuart.

There will also be food stalls and an ice cream van, bouncy castle and a licensed beer tent.

Once the last race has finished, there will be evening entertainment, which will be provided by the ever-popular George Inglis and his Rockin’ Horse Band.

To enter the pony race or give a donation, contact Stuart on 07734 697008. More information can be found on the Selkirk Flapping Association’s new Facebook page.

One hundred youngsters selected to participate in the 2014 Borders Sport and Leisure Sports Academy are preparing to receive training from some of the finest coaches in the country.

The academy, which takes the form of a multi-sports training camp, will take place at Borders Campus in Galashiels from August 3-6, and features seven different sports.

The children invited to attend have been identified as the most promising sporting talents in the region and will experience elite coaching and workshops over the period.

Ewan Jackson, chief executive of Borders Sport and Leisure, said: “This is a brilliant initiative that brings together children aged 12-16 from across the region and allows them to have a taste of what professional athletes experience as part of their development programmes.

“Being selected to take part is a real achievement, and I am delighted that we have secured an exceptional team of professional coaches to work at the academy this year.”

The coaching line-up for 2015 includes former Hearts football player Lee Makel, Olympian and Scotland’s most capped hockey player, Janet Jack, touch tennis champion Neil Harden, Regional Academy coach for Scottish Rugby Union, Chris Dewsnap, cycling coach Chris Bryant, swimming coach Lauren Jocelyn and athletics coach Neil Renton.

Mr Jackson concluded: “The coaches aim to make this both challenging and enjoyable. I am sure, just like previous participants, this year’s students will find this an inspirational experience.”

Previous attendees at the Scottish Borders Sports Academy who have gone on excel in their chosen fields include footballer Danny Galbraith who played for Manchester United, canoeist Alice Haining who has competed in the Junior World Championships and hockey player Sarah Robertson who representing Scotland at the Commonwealth Games.

Drizzling rain switched to sweeping rain and it was hot and humid, but St Ronan’s Games missed out on the thunderstorms that hit other parts.

There was, however, a flash of lightning over the pastures of the Victoria Park track.

This bolt from the heavens was conjured up by Selkirk runner Geoff Keen. For he showed that lightning can not only strike once, but twice and even three times, as he won the St Ronan’s Games 110m handicap for the third time.

From the Edinburgh-based Graeme Armstrong running camp, Keen did not win his heat, but qualified for the cross-ties as a fastest loser.

In his semi-final outing, though, Keen bounced back in style when blitzing to an excellent win in 11.51 seconds.

This earned him a final place along with his coach Graeme Armstrong of Edinburgh (17.5m), training mate David Lauder of Hawick (13.5m) and TLJT and Jedburgh pair Tommy Finkle (13.5m) and Darren Tomlinson (13m), plus Selkirk’s Craig Bruce (10m).

In a hotly-contested final, it was Keen who produced the trump card with his top run of the day by far, which earned him a photo-finish win. Finkle and Tomlinson came in second and third.

Expressing his thoughts on his triumph, Keen told The Southern: “I didn’t run well in my heat when I was beaten by Darren Tomlinson.

“However, I managed to get into the cross-ties as a fastest loser. This gave me a second chance and I was determined to do well. I was very happy with my cross-tie run. In the final, I knew I would have to be at my best as I was up against some good runners, including two from my own school.

“I managed to pull it off, though, and I am really chuffed to have done this, especially as it is now the third time that I have won the St Ronan’s sprint.

“And my father Bill Keen won the sprint here in the 60s, making it an even better feeling.”

The Armstrong stable also produced the winner of the 200m handicap in Hawick’s Glyn Desport (28m).

Having returned to the scene this season after an eight-year absence, former Hawick YM rugby ace Desport powered to a heat win and then produced another barn-storming run in the final when racing home ahead of TLJT duo Craig Smith (30m) and Mhairi Henderson (54m).

Hometown boy, 38-year -old Dean Whiteford (175m), did Innerleithen proud by winning the 1,600m handicap, with the crowd behind him every inch of the way.

On a rain-soaked Victoria Park track, Selkirk’s Alistair Laurie (380m) headed the field as the bell sounded for the last lap. Trained by his dad Alex, an athlete of great note in his own running days, Whiteford then edged ahead. Well known for his late surging finishes, this was a fairly early move for him, but he was on a mission and it proved to be a winning one.

Showing purpose in every stride, Whiteford began to leave the pack in his wake and amongst great cheers raced to a clear win in 4 minutes, 11.54 seconds. The other placings went the way of John Thomson of Coaltown (200m) and Kobe Stevens of Moorfoot (165m).

A thrilled Whiteford said: “I haven’t been running as well as I would have liked during the season.

“It just hasn’t been really happening as I have perhaps not been relaxing enough during the race.

“I was a bit nervous today as I was wanting to do well on my home track.

“Once the gun went, I felt better, though, especially when I heard the crowd roaring me on as this gave me a real lift.

“So I just went for it and I was surprised how well I managed to run. I won the same race in 2010 and it’s just brilliant to have won it again.”

Kobe Stevens of Moorfoot produced some fine running to gain the honours in the 800m handicap.

Victor over the same distance at Earlston Games earlier in the year, Stevens (80m) a young runner who always gives his all broke the tape in 1 minute, 50.2 seconds, following a well-executed run from the gun. Hawick’s Stewart Fraser (60m) emerged second and Peter Cameron of Edinburgh (65m) third.

In an exciting 110m invitation sprint handicap, Craig Grieve of TLJT hit the winning frame. A former winner of Kelso and Hawick sprints, Grieve gained a photo-finish triumph over scratch man Cameron Tindle of Berwick and Craig Gillan of TLJT.

Galashiels youngster Caris Brus (22.5m) chalked up her first victory on the games circuit when triumphing in the 90m youths’ A race handicap. Coached by veteran Innerleithen coach Charlie Russell, 13-year-old Brus buzzed to a heat win and then produced a sizzling final run that saw her sail over the finishing line.

Coach Russell saw two more of his young protégés gain wins by firing on all cylinders in their respective events.

Ten-year-old Jake Houten of Cardrona (24m) followed up an impressive heat win in the youths’ 90m handicap B race by doing the business in the final.

Eve Huxley also shone for the Russell school by coming out on top in the A race of the youths’ 200m handicap.

Victory in the youths’ 200m B event went the way of Max Johnstone of Jed AC (64m), who excelled with winning shows in his heat and cross-tie.

Jack Amos (355m), another member of Jed AC, which boasts Brian ‘Chico’ Woods as coach, was a convincing victor of the youths’ 1600m handicap.

Commonwealth Games hopeful Grant Ferguson defended his British Cross-country Championship title on Sunday as he cruised to victory in Hopton Woods.

The versatile 20-year-old from Peebles is on double duties in Glasgow next week. Not only will he be one of Team Scotland’s leading contenders on the Cathkin Braes mountain bike course, but he is also part of the road racing team.

Speaking about his medal hopes, Ferguson said: “I’d like a medal – that is my main goal – but I’m going in with an open mind. There will be some strong riders and I need to make sure I’m in the right shape to be at the front.”

Last weekend, Ferguson, a renowned climber, set off up the starting hill at a furious pace and had opened up a healthy gap by the time he reached the top. He was never in any danger as he continued to lap quicker than anyone else on the circuit and secured the jersey once again with more than a minute-and-a-half back to second place.

The junior women’s race also produced an outstanding ride, with Cardrona’s Isla Short recording the second-fastest female lap of the day to win her class by almost two minutes.

It was cloudy for much of the installation of the Laddie when Kelso’s historic Square was lined with crowds last Wednesday evening.

But just before the dancing of the Kelso Laddie’s Reel, it started to rain and, later, pour for the rest of the event.

Provost John Bassett sashed Kelso Laddie Ross Henderson and his Right and Left-Hand Men, Calum Thomson and Callum Vickers, before entrusting Laddie Henderson with the Kelso Standard and urging him: “Fear nocht, dae richt”.

To music by Jedforest Instrumental Band, the Laddie slowly descended the platform and made his way to the centre of The Square where Lady Bussers Abbie Burgher, Sophie Graham, Hannah Patterson and Erin Armstrong bussed the flag.

Returning to the platform, Laddie Henderson talked of his pride and the honour of being Kelso Laddie and said he would endeavour to carry out his duties to the same high standards set by his predecessors and return the standard, “unsullied and untarnished” at the end of the week.

Provost Bassett and Laddie Henderson presented Diamond Jubilee Ex-LaddieTom Laing with a shepherd’s crook. Kelso Laddies’ Association chairman Scott Forbes’ wife made the presentation to Golden Jubilee Laddie Alastair Neil.

And it was also 50 years ago this year that Kelso Laddies’ Association secretary Richie Allan first became involved as an assistant secretary. Chairman Forbes presented Richie with a tie pin as an appreciation for his five decades of service.

Afterwards, Richie told TheSouthern: “I was delighted: it goes to show your services are appreciated.”

Mrs Forbes again made a presentation to Silver Jubilee Laddie Douglas Harvey, whose thank-you speech took place during torrential rain.

Ex-Laddie Colin Dumma then presented the Ex-Kelso Laddies’ Club’s Achievement Award to Kelso Cricket Club groundsman Brian Lang, who has been involved with the club since 1988 and is a former chairman and president.

He has also been involved with Kelso Football Club since 1965 where he has served on the committee and cut the pitch. Additionally, he has chauffeured the Kelso principals to their commitments during Civic Week for 15 years.

Other events later in the week included the Grand Civic Week Ball at Springwood Park on Thursday night, which was attended by 560 revellers.

Earlier in the evening, 60-70 mounted followers, plus another 100 on bicycles, including many children, saddled up behind the Kelso Laddie for the ride to Floors Castle.

The historic Whipman’s Ride on Friday attracted around 60 to 70 followers. Ex-Kelso Laddies’ Club president Colin Dumma presented the Whipman’s Flag to Laddie Ross in the Square on Friday night before MC Colin Henderson recited “Taddie Us” and Margaret Dumma bussed the flag.

Speaking this week, Mr Henderson – Kelso Laddie in 1980 and uncle of this year’s incumbent – said the town’s Civic Week programme of festivities and ceremonials just seemed to get bigger and better.

“When you see the numbers out to support the events, even when raining, it’s obvious Civic Week continues to go from strength to strength,” he told us.

“Obviously I’m Kelso through and through and with Ross being Laddie this year, it helped make it even more special for the family and I thought he did really well.

“We had a bit of rain on the Wednesday and then again on Saturday afternoon, but overall it’s been a fantastic week.”

A Hawick man involved in a drug-related attack and robbery was jailed for 12 months.

Robert Searle, who lives at Fraser Avenue, appeared on indictment and admitted assaulting a man at a house in Oliver Crescent, Hawick, on August 12 last year.

The 21-year-old forced his victim onto a bed, repeatedly punched him on the head, and robbed him of a games console and games.

Prosecutor Claire Bottomley told Jedburgh Sheriff Court last Friday how the victim had visited the accused the previous day to discuss X-boxes and mobile phones, adding: “They made an arrangement to meet the next day to sort out a new chip for his X-box.”

The man left his home and returned to find the accused and another person there. Following a confrontation, Searle repeatedly punched the victim on the head, after forcing him on to a bed.

He threatened: “You’ve got until one o’clock to get the Blackberry, or I will shoot you.”

Searle left the house with a games console and games, which were later recovered by police.

Ed Hulme, defending, said his client appreciated the seriousness of the offence, but had been “very candid” in his explanation.

Addressing Searle, Sheriff Kevin Drummond said: “The explanation given by the Crown is one of an apparently motiveless assault, but the explanation you offer is one which appears to fit the circumstances in that this was a drug-related transaction and you were enforcing payment and gathering security.

“This is a serious matter which cannot be dealt with by any alternative to custody.”

Anne-Marie Gass, 37, assaulted her partner of 14 years by grabbing her arm and throwing a hairbrush at her at their home in Hawthorn Road, Galashiels, on June 20.

At Selkirk Sheriff Court, sentence was deferred until January 12. The background was said to be fairly complex, but Gass’ lawyer said they remained in a relationship.

The Borders will be dually represented when the Scottish rowing team travels to Ireland this weekend for the annual Home International Regatta.

Maddie Arlett from Selkirk and Elizabeth Crighton from Earlston, have both been named in a strong women’s team to take on their English, Welsh and Irish counterparts at the National Rowing Centre in Cork on Saturday.

Both have achieved a host of national titles this season and will be looking to continue their success as they compete together in the coxed four event. Arlett will also line up in the eight, while Crighton will compete in both the double and quadruple sculls.

Colin Stevenson warmed up for his forthcoming assault in the Bolton Ironman by winning the Kelso Wheelers 10-miler in 24 minutes and 14 seconds on the Birgham course last week.

Times: C. Stevenson 24.14; J. Smith 24.16; R. Ure 24.26; D. Richardson 25.16; Richard Connell 25.45; Rene Coupek 25.58 pb; D. Whitecross 29.22; R. Smith 30.21. Youths: O. Onley 28.36, B. Simpson 29.12 pb, D. Easson 33.24, T. Purves 36.59, R Easson 38.04.

League points were also on offer and in Section One Donald Richardson moved into first place on 68 while Jeremy Smith on 56 improved to joint second beside Dave Burgher.

In Section Two, Richard Connell cemented his position as leader on 64 ahead of Colin Stevenson and Gordon Dalglish on 40. Coldstream riders David Whitecross and Rob Smith are battling for Section Three honours, with 78 and 68 points respectively. Six points separate Oscar Onley (72) and Daniel Easson (68) in the youths’ section, with Ben Simpson dropping to third on 56.

Plans are already afoot to make the 2015 Borders Sport & Leisure Celebration of Sport Awards an event to inspire the whole of the region.

The judging panel for the Awards, comprising representatives of Borders Sport and Leisure (John McBay, David Ferguson and Henry Gray), ClubSport Borders Network (Norman Anderson) and local media (Stuart McFarlane and Fiona Scott), met this week to decide on the awards categories, kick-off the shortlisting process and discuss timings for next year’s event.

Launched in 2013, the event recognises leading sports people, coaches, events and teams from across the Borders. The 2015 Awards will be held on February 27 at the Peebles Hydro Hotel, and will feature 12 categories with three being decided by a public vote.

Last year’s event proved a great success with 175 guests attending the awards ceremony where Hawick motor cycle ace Stuart Easton scooped the Sports Personality of the Year Award.

Local sports historian Henry Gray told The Southern: “I am proud to be associated with the awards and the highly-regarded judging panel. There is a vast knowledge of local, national and international sport around the table.”

GB Telecom are continuing their sponsorship of the event and managing director Gordon Brown added: “This is GB Telecom’s third year of supporting the awards and we are proud to be associated with this event.

“These awards are synonymous with commitment and excellence, qualities that we aim to demonstrate as a company, and I am looking forward to seeing which organisations and individuals will shine in the coming months and earn a place on the 2015 shortlist.”

David Ferguson, chairman of Borders Sport and Leisure, said: “The Celebration of Sport plays a key role in helping to encourage, support and inspire sports people of all ages across the Borders. I am honoured to be on the panel.

“It is almost impossible trying to separate the many high-achievers we have in the region, but I feel that recognising achievement is an important part of inspiring current and future generations to believe that Borders athletes can reach the very top.”

Categories for 2015: Coach of the Year, Club of the Year; Event of the Year; Sports Personality of the Year; Junior Sports Personality of the Year; Team of the Year; Inspirational Performance of the Year; Service to Sport; Positive Coaching Scotland Award; Disability Sport Award; Scottish Borders Sporting Hall of Fame Induction; World Achievement Award.

The weather took its toll on the Snowdon hill races on Saturday, with both the new invitation uphill-only Snowdon Super Cup and the main Snowdon International race curtailed to about 2/3rds distance.

Peebles athlete Scout Adkin was fifth to the revised finish of the Snowdon Super Cup in 37.17, with the top two in GB at present taking first and second. Scout was first Under-23 ahead of both this year’s and the 2012 Under-20 European Champions. In the main Snowdon International race, Scout’s Moorfoot clubmate Sarah McCormack was a comfortable winner for Ireland in 55.21.