Walkerburn’s Jai Dará Latto took pain to a whole new level last weekend as she completed her charity walk from her home town to Edinburgh – in four-inch heels.

The transgender beauty queen – who was unceremoniously stripped of her Miss Transgender United UK title by organiser Rachael Bailey for “not being trangender enough” – walked the 32-plus miles in 12-and-a-half hours, despite being in considerable pain.

In doing so, she has raised at least £700 – which will be split between her three chosen charites: the Sahodari foundation (an Indian campaign and support network), the Thai Transgender Alliance (an organisation promoting human rights for transgender people in Thailand), and the Scottish Borders LGBT Equality Forum.

She told The Southern: “The walk itself was really good – and I had loads of people supporting me and walking with me on different sections.

“There were friends and family, people from the charities, and people from Sainsbury’s of Hawick, who sponsored me.

“My dad [Grahame Latto] joined me for the last section from Penicuik.

“It was very heart-warming to know I have all these amazing people supporting me.”

“I was really confident at the start, but as the walk went on, and we got to the section between Eddleston and Leadburn, it became really difficult, with hard terrain.

“The first plasters went on quite quickly and they worked for a while, but near the end, it was like hell on my feet.”

The distance was meant to highlight the lengths that many transgender people have to go through, while the high heels were to show the pain many trans women experience when fitting into a female stereotype.

But it was the two together that led to this particular challenge being incredibly difficult.

Jai said: “In the last 15 minutes, my whole pinkie toe had turned into a big blister.

“It just popped, and it was the most excruciating pain.

“My feet are healing now, slowly, but the blisters are still a little raw.”

Jai added: “I’m not going to be doing another one soon, but it was a good experience and I learned a lot from it.”

The 22-year-old hopes to raise £5,000.

She said: “To raise my goal would be a dream. but anything, no matter how large or small, donated to these causes would be amazing.”

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/jais30milecatwalk

One of the latest additions to the region’s culinary scene is looking to cement its reputation by winning a new restaurant award.

Lauder’s Firebrick Brasserie is one of only three restaurants on the shortlist for the prestigious CIS Excellence Restaurant Newcomer of the Year Award.

Firebrick Brasserie has already put the town on the culinary map, 
after being declared Best New Restaurant in The Borders for 2015, the brasserie was also listed in the 2016 edition of Peter Irvine’s Scotland The Best.

The restaurant has also been on the receiving end of sparkling reviews from customers and food critics alike, including a 10/10 from Joanna Blythman writing for the Sunday Herald.

That is high praise indeed from one of the country’s 
leading food writers, who does not usually award full marks lightly.

And all of this came within just eight months of its opening.

Chef-owners David Haetzman and Amanda Jordan say that they aim to inspire diners with their innovative menus and exciting use of local produce.

Around 70 percent of the ingredients used in the kitchens at Firebrick - named for a traditional kind of Italian pizza ovens - are sourced within a 20 mile radius of the restaurant.

The couple, who have lived in Lauder for many years, took the plunge and invested in their own place after working in high profile city restaurants including The Jam House, Blue and Kyloe.

“We had always wanted to have our own restaurant,” explained Amanda, earlier this week.

“It is a big commitment, of course, and not just financially.

“It is long hours and hard work - but we love it, it’s very rewarding. We really enjoy being able to share our enthusiasm for great food with our customers.”

The CIS award is designed to recognise innovation and excellence in the Scottish catering and hospitality industry, and is judged by a panel of industry experts.

The winners will be the establishment that best embodies CIS’ values.

Organisers say: “The Restaurant Newcomer of the Year Award winner will be a successful establishment, located in Scotland, which has most captured the imagination, attention and praise of the industry, public and media since launching within the previous three years.”

There are also CIS awards to be presented to individuals in the restaurant industry, as well as prizes for ‘business innovation’

The winner of the prize will be presented with their award at a ceremony on May 26, at the Glasgow Hilton.

Firebrick is the only restaurant from the Border region to be included, with the two other listed restaurants being the city based IX Restaurant at The Chester Hotel, Aberdeen and The Printing Press in Edinburgh.

“We are absolutely thrilled,” added David.

“The competition is tough, as there were lots of nominations this year and to be named as one of the top three new restaurants in the country is pretty amazing.

“The two restaurants that we are shortlisted with are both great establishments and it’s truly an honour to see Firebrick’s name appearing alongside them.”

NHS Borders staff held their latest annual Celebrating Excellence award ceremony at Springwood Park in Kelso.

Describing the event as the best yet, NHS Borders chairman John Raine, said: “The Celebrating Excellence awards recognise the hard work, commitment and dedication of staff and volunteers across the organisation.

“It is also an opportunity for everyone to enjoy themselves and celebrate the care, compassion, dignity, respect and quality teamwork that takes place across NHS Borders every single day.

“It was very obvious on the night just how much it meant to the finalists and winners to be nominated by their colleagues or patients.

“I would like to congratulate once again all the nominees, finalists and winners and those involved in the organisation of such a fabulous event.”

The chairman’s award was given to the Huntlyburn Ward Team for their outstanding contribution to the organisation.

The team were praised for creating a sense of community on the ward, encourage patients to participate in activities to help in their recovery.

There were a couple of new accolades given out this year.

A values award recognising an individual or team demonstrating care, compassion, dignity and respect to patients, their families and carers was awarded to Shona Finlay, a domestic at the Borders General Hospital in Melrose.

The primary care provider of the year award was won by Dr Jane Savory.

Other prizes went, for improving health, to the lifestyle adviser support service; for innovation and improvement, to Dr Brian Magowan and his team; for partnership working, to Irene Clark, partnership chairwoman for primary and community; for leading by example, to Gillian Forbes, a sexual health nurse specialist; for rising star, to Emma Govan, a social worker; for clinical excellence, to Margaret Davison, an assisted birth practitioner midwife; for supporter, to Eilean Hogarth, a Margaret Kerr Unit fundraiser; for work behind the scenes, to the infection control team and Alan Grainger, a telecommunications engineer; and for person-centred care, to Jake Cowan and Martin McAllister, both community learning disability nurses.

Chairman’s commendations went out to Mary Bishop, a patient safety assistant; fundraiser Eilean Hogarth; Costas Kontothanassis, assistant general manager for primary and community services and contracts; the Childsmile team; and the Melburn Lodge team.

As part of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight, Scottish Borders Council is encouraging residents to think about fostering, especially if they can offer a home to adolescents in need of care.

Across the UK, more than 9,000 new foster families are needed in the next 12 months alone, with the greatest need being for foster carers for older children, sibling groups and disabled children.

Councillor Frances Renton, the council’s executive member for social work and housing said: “As always, Foster Care Fortnight is an opportunity for us to raise awareness of the ongoing need we have in the Borders for people to come forward and talk to our family placement team about fostering.

“The team is particularly keen to hear from people interested in caring for adolescents.

“Families can offer young people love, security and stability, which can all make a significant contribution to their self-esteem, wellbeing and learning.”

Michelle Hoppe has been one of the council’s foster carers since January 2015.

She said: “The main motivation for becoming a foster carer was to be able to give something back to society.

“The rewards of seeing children having their needs being met are enormous.

“Allowing them to flourish in a safe and nurturing environment and ensuring routines are maintained means the young person thrives.”

If you believe that you have got the skills and dedication needed to give a child a loving home, the family placement team wants to hear from you as there are children and young people waiting now for the right families.

If you would like more information, the team will be at Borders General Hospital in Melrose today from 9am to 6pm and tomorrow from 9am to 3pm to explain the rewards and benefits of becoming a foster carer.

You can also call 01896 662799 or click on www.
scotborders.gov.uk/fostering

Three new walks in Ayton, Melrose and Hawick have been added to the Scottish Borders Walking for Health project, Walk It.

Since 2009, the number of walks as part of the scheme has gone from five to 25 and covers all the main Borders towns and many smaller settlements.

The Walk It project is free to take part in, accessible to all, social, safe and are led by a qualified walk leader.

The latest walks added to the programme are:

Ayton – every Tuesday at 10.30am. Meet outside Ayton Community Hall. Contact Denise on 07813 535394 for more information.

Melrose – every Wednesday at 10am. Meet in the Market Square, Melrose. Contact Martin on 07858 386485 for details.

Hawick (Burnfoot) – Fortnightly on Fridays at 10.30am. Meet at Burnfoot Community Hub. Contact Denise on 07813 535394 for more details.

A recent Social Return on Investment study found that for every £1 invested in the project there was a social return of £8.

A petition lodged with Parliament to allow parents to take children out of school during term time has attracted 96,671 signatures, 17 of them from the Scottish Borders.

The present rules, introduced in 2013, mean that parents must file an application with their child’s headteacher in advance if they wish to go on holiday during term time. The headteacher makes the decision on whether the absence will be approved, with guidelines allowing holidays to be signed off under exceptional circumstances.

Parents who don’t follow the rules can be fined by their local council. The penalty of £60 will rise to £120 if it is not paid within 21 days and parents can be prosecuted if the fine is still outstanding after 28 days.

The government is yet to respond to the petition, but commits to responding to all petitions that receive more than 10,000 signatures. At 100,000 signatures, the petition will be considered for debate in parliament, meaning that - at the time of writing - the petition is less than 4,000 signatures away from being considered for debate by MPs.

The petition was created by a Mr Dave Hedley, whose family has run foul of the rules: “Myself and my wife received a fine for our two eldest children (two fines each parent) for taking our children on holiday for 5 days in term time which was the only week free from surgery and radiotherapy.

“This apparently is not an exceptional circumstance. The council quote is S.444 A or 1 of the Education act 1996 which in its own term indicates truancy and not a one off family holiday. Councils are too ready to fine and wont (sic) consider exceptional circumstances.”

The school in question apparently knew of the cancer diagnosis which Mr Hedley, from Nottinghamshire, feels should be considered an exceptional circumstance.

{https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/129698|You can sign the petition here|petition page}

The Queen’s Body Guard for Scotland, the Royal Company of Archers, will be visiting Peebles on Saturday 14 May for the traditional Shoot for the Peebles Silver Arrow.

The Shoot will take place in Hay Lodge Park at 3pm following a civic luncheon for the Archers and other guests in the Tontine Hotel hosted by the Convener of Scottish Borders Council (SBC), Councillor Graham Garvie.

The Royal Company will then march to the Shoot from the Chambers Institution at 2.40pm. They will be accompanied by the Peebles Ex-Servicemen’s Pipe Band.

Councillor Garvie said: “The Silver Arrow dates back to at least 1628 and has been shot for by the Royal Company of Archers since 1796. The 2016 Shoot is the 24th occasion on which the prize has been shot for. The Shoot at Peebles now takes place every six years in rotation with the Royal Company’s three other country prizes at Biggar, Selkirk and Montrose.”

Following the Shoot, the Royal Company will march back to the Chambers Institution at about 5.30pm. In the evening, the Royal Company will then entertain a number of guests at a Mess Dinner being held in the Tontine Hotel.

The Royal Company of Archers is the official body guard to HM The Queen when she undertakes ceremonial duties in Scotland. The Royal Company has some 400 members of which about 60, usually those living in Scotland, are shooting members. The date of the Company’s founding is obscure but it was certainly in existence in 1676, when its constitution was first set down in writing. It was granted formal recognition by Queen Anne in 1704 and in 1822, in the reign of King George IV, was appointed the King’s Body Guard in Scotland.

The Peebles Arrow was originally one of the Silver Arrows offered as a prize by a number of Scottish Burghs in the days when archery was in danger of being overtaken by the popularity of firearms and gunpowder. It appears to have been first shot for in 1628 and was probably open to all comers. Only four 17th century medals remain attached to the prize, so it may not have been competed for often. On 12 July 1784, the Provost of Peebles took the Arrow to a ceremonial dinner to which he was invited by the Royal Company of Archers and as a result the Peebles Arrow became one of the Royal Company’s regular prizes. It was first shot for by the Royal Company on 3 June 1796 and is now competed for every six years in rotation with the Royal Company’s other prizes at Biggar, Montrose and Selkirk.

The shoot takes place at a range of 180 yards with archers using traditional wooden long bows and wooden arrows. Archers shoot in pairs, each archer shooting two arrows at an ‘end’ alternating with his partner or ‘Buttie’. After they have shot they move to the other end and repeat the process. All arrows which hit the target (or ‘clout’) score two points each. If no arrows hit the ‘clout’, the winner of an ‘end’ is the archer whose arrow is nearest the centre of the ‘clout’ and this scores one point.

The shoot for the Peebles Arrow consists of a maximum of 12 ‘ends’. If at the end of the competition there is a tie for first place, one more ‘end’ (a ‘prize end’) is shot to decide the outright winner.

Leaving the European Union would have a major impact on the region’s farming industry and NFU Scotland is giving farmers the chance to have their say.

With the Scottish Parliament elections behind us and momentum building towards the vote on June 23 on whether the UK stays in or leaves the European Union the likely scenarios for Scottish agriculture are being discussed at a special debate.

NFU Scotland’s debate on European membership ‘In or Out – The implications for Scottish food and farming’ is being held in the MacRobert Pavilion, Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, on Thursday 19 May, 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

The first speaker confirmed is European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan. A speaker for ‘Vote Leave’ is to be confirmed.

The union’s vice president Andrew McCornick said: “With debate on the referendum gathering pace, it is important that Scottish farming has a voice in any scrutiny given to the issue ahead of the vote on June 23.

“Not only is it important to discuss the likely scenarios for Scottish agriculture should we leave the EU, but it is also relevant to consider what we can hope to achieve from the reform agenda for Europe. What might that reform agenda mean for the Common Agricultural Policy, if voters opt to stay ‘in’?

“NFUS has said throughout the debate that, to date, the current balance remains in favour of staying in the EU. However, it is not for the union to tell its members in any way how they should use their vote.

“It therefore becomes all the more important that key issues such as the future of agricultural support, access for Scottish produce to European markets, and the movement of labour are given prominence in the debate.”

Floors Castle International Horse Trials kicks off this weekend – and it’s set to be the biggest yet.

The event, organised by the Duchess of Roxburghe and Cindy Onslow, will welcome a host of horses and riders over the weekend.

Perhaps the most exciting event is the Cazenove Capital Management CIC** class, which will see the likes of Oliver Townend and Ben Hobday, who are fresh from successful campaigns at Badminton Horse Trials, the world’s biggest three-day event.

Young riders from across the Sottish Borders will have a unique opportunity to ride alongside the world renowned competitors in a variety of sports.

The BE100 under 18 and Novice under 18 National Qualifying Classes are just one of six chances for youngsters to win a place in the Frickley Park National u18 Championships later in the year.

Competition will be tough for the Scottish Borderers’ as they will compete against riders from seven other regions.

The aim of these junior classes is to recognise the potential future stars of the eventing world so it is wonderful that local equestrians will have the opportunity to shine!

It is not all about the eventing. The Pony Club Games will make for exciting viewing for spectators, as children as young as seven compete in fast and furious gymkhana style games. Last year’s winners from the National Schools Show Jumping Qualifiers at Floors Castle International Horse Trails went on to win and be placed in the Championships later in the year – there are high hopes for the Scottish Borders teams to do the same again this year.

Committee member Debbie Whalley said: “We couldn’t run this event and these amazing classes without our fantastic sponsors. We have local and national businesses generously supporting us.”

Members of the public are welcome to watch the action unfold from 9am to 5pm daily. A Kelso-based dog agility team will be on hand to show off its skills on Saturday and Sunday, and invites visitors to bring along their own dog to have a go themselves.

A shopping village with 35 unique stalls provides the perfect opportunity for a bit of retails therapy.

Floors Castle International Horse Trials take place from May 13-15.

More information is available on its website www.floorscastlehorsetrials.com

Victory on Saturday by favourites Jed-Forest to wrap up the Kings of the Sevens festival would be the “icing on the cake” after a long hard season.

Head coach Jammy McFarlane and his players are relishing the prospect ahead of them this weekend – they host the final stage of the 10-tournament series and are one of only two teams who can win it overall.

Jammy said it would be very special to have something tangible to show for the effort put in by everyone connected with the club, after a punishing season.

“It’s a massive deal for the players and we have a real focus on the sevens as a club,” he said.

“In recent years, Jed-Forest have been really strong – I have only been there this season, but that focus is still there and very much in the minds of the players as well.

“We want to do well and, hopefully, in front of our own people, we will get a good turnout and we can see the job through. But it won’t be easy by any stretch.”

Jed-Forest have led the table for several week and sit on 54 points, five ahead of their only challengers, Watsonians, on 49.

Various combinations and permutations could materialise on Saturday, but Jed know they are in a strong position and want to finish with a flourish, while acknowledging the quality of rivals such as Melrose, Watsonians, Hawick, Selkirk, and others.

It would be a massive occasion at Riverside, as Jammy added: “Hopefully, the experience of the squad will see us through but there will be no lack of effort – that’s for sure. The boys are really up for it.”

Victory would be a fitting reward, said Jammy, as the demands of playing 10 tournaments in six weeks, an overlap with XVs games, and expecting players to prepare through the week, had been “brutal” and “grossly unfair” on them. He believed the Borders League format had to be reconsidered.

Average wages in the Borders have slipped further behind the national average in the past decade, and the difference now is £65 a week.

Reviving the local economy and making the region an attractive place to live and work is now a priority for the South of Scotland Alliance.

The alliance is a partnership between Scottish Borders Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Scottish Enterprise, and it has set out three priorities to set the area on the road to recovery.

The first is fostering a culture of innovation which aims to improve business competitiveness and revitalise organisations in the public and third sector.

The second priority is inspiring enterprise and entrepreneurship through co-operation with schools, colleges, universities and business people.

The final priority is creating resilient, future-proof enabling infrastructure in the form of better digital and transport connections.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “The South of Scotland Alliance is committed to raising the profile of the south of Scotland and the positive contribution that the region can make to Scotland’s economy.

“The alliance has developed a new south of Scotland competitiveness strategy to set the direction for actions that it will take over the next seven years to help deliver transformational economic growth.

“The vision is that, by 2023, the South of Scotland will be a thriving rural economy, transformed by a growing core of innovative, ambitious businesses, and sustained by a renewed culture of entrepreneurship.”

A report to Scottish Borders councillors this week read: “Despite the notable successes of the South of Scotland Alliance and other partner agencies, the regional economy has continued to struggle in recent years.

“Growth has not kept pace with the rest of the country and gross value added per head actually fell between 2007 and 2013, from 72% of the national average in 2007 to only 70% in 2013.

“Average weekly wages have also slipped over the same period, from 89% of the national average to 87% – in monetary terms, a gap of more than £65 per worker per week.”

The entrepreneurial spirit of the region is reflected in its high levels of self-employment – 12.6% of the workforce compared to a national average of 8%. However, business expenditure on research and development indicates the relative absence of commercial innovation in the region, with spend per head almost 75% less than the average.

Alliance partners acknowledge the long-term structural weaknesses of the region’s economy but are determined to make progress with the new seven-year plan.

bedrule

Whist

The charity whist raised £200 in aid of the Lung Fund at Borders General Hospital.

Bowden

Community cafe

The next community cafe gathering is in the village hall at 11am on May 18.

CADDONFOOT

Parish church

The Sacrament of Holy Communion was celebrated on Sunday when the service was conducted by the Reverend Elspeth Harley. The Bible reading was delivered by the Reverend Jack Kellett, and music was played by Andy and Catriona Bird. Bible study continues on Wednesday nights at the Trinity Church office in Galashiels at 7.30pm. Christian Aid Week begins on May 15.

EARLSTON

Plant sale

Earlston Horticultural Society will hold its annual bedding plant sale and coffee morning at Hanover Close in The Square on Saturday, May 14. All proceeds go towards supporting the 2016 Earlston Flower Show, which will be held on Saturday, August 27.

Wednesday Club

Hostess Mrs Penman welcomed members to the latest meeting before introducing Mrs S. McKay who entertained with music from the 1920s through to the 2010s. Sheila then conducted quizzes with a royal flavour and the subject of old Scottish words and phrases. Competition – something with a royal theme – 1, Mrs W. Moffat; 2, Mrs A. Stewart; 3, Mrs A. Todd. Our next meeting will be on May 18 and the competition is for a floral photograph.

Parish church

On Sunday, May 15, the service at 10.15am will be conducted by the Reverend Julie Woods. Christian Aid Week begins on the same day, so collectors will

be out and about in the village. The session meeting will be held on Monday, May 16, at 7.30pm in the church hall lounge.

Concert

Vocal Zone – a four-piece harmony a cappella group singing a variety of popular songs, mostly from the 20th century – will appear in concert on May 21 at 7.30pm in Earlston Parish Church. Donations at the door, with profits going to Christian Aid.

Ettrickbridge

Spring fair

The church spring fair is being held on Saturday, May 14, in Kirkhope Hall from 2pm. There will be teas and a variety of stalls, including crafts, home baking, bottle, Phoenix cards and £5 sales table. The competition this year is a “Darts Challenge”.

fountainhall

SWI

The next meeting will be held in Fountainhall Village Hall on Wednesday, May 18, at 7.30pm when there will be an art class (bring scissors and a stapler if you have one). Competition winners from the April meeting – date loaf – 1, Dianne Wilson; 2, Christine Sinclair; scarf – 1, Margaret White; 2, Dorothy Small. May competitions – three ginger snaps and a photograph frame.

galashiels

Blood donors

At blood-donor sessions on Sunday, May 1, and Monday, May 2, a total of 292 volunteers offered to give blood and 263 donations were given. There were 13 new donors.

Trinity church

On Sunday the congregation welcomed friends from the Deaf Church. Minister Elspeth Harley conducted the service. She had been on a course last week and met many other ministers, discussing how nowadays a clergyperson needs help with many of the chores that he/she can’t do – e.g. fixing heating, plumbing etc., accounts and therefore church members should be encouraged to use their gifts and talents to help in the running of the church. Sheila Wilson read the lessons and Dorothy Howden led music with a mixture of old and newer hymns. Bible study continues on Wednesdays at 7.30pm in the church office. Sunday, May 15, is the start of Christian Aid Week and there will be a joint guilds coffee morning in aid of the work of this charity on Saturday, May 21, from 10am-noon in Trinity Church hall. Also on May 15 there is to be a special service for Pentecost in Our Lady and St Andrew’s Church at 6.30pm.

jedburgh

Equestrian show

Les Amis, the equestrian stunt team, return from filming on the highly-acclaimed “Outlander” TV series to perform their annual equestrian theatre show at Lanton Hill Farm from May 12-16. Tickets are available via Les Amis Box Office (07598 116347) or at tickets@lesamisdonno.com

hawick

Rotary

President Mairhi Trickett presided over the AGM at last week’s meeting when all the convenors gave satisfactory reports. More than £6,000 had been raised and dispersed to international and local charities. Jim Walker will be the incoming president, with Scott Elliot as vice-president, making a record third term in the position, and all the other office bearers continued in their posts. £500 will be invested in a micro-finance project in a Third World country. A coffee morning will be held on Saturday, May 28, in Trinity Church Hall in aid of charity.

Bridge club

May 3 – 1 (equal), Mary Millar & Patsy Gilligan, George Graham & Bob Francombe; 3, Michael Tuson & Bob Witherington. May 10 – N/S – 1, Mary Millar & Patsy Gilligan; 2, Tricia & Lance Witten; 3, Michael Tuson & Bob Witherington; E/W – 1, George Graham & Bob Francombe; 2, John & Susan Law; 3, Kenneth Auckland & David King.

Young farmers

Teviotdale Young Farmers’ new members’ night will be held at Wilton Park on Wednesday, May 18, at 7.30pm. This is a chance for 14 to 30-year-olds in the Jedburgh, Hawick and Langholm area to come along and have some fun with various games while getting to know like-minded people who live, work or have an interest in the countryside. Details of future young farmers’ events can be found on the Teviotdale Young Farmers’ Club Facebook page.

Concert

Trinity Church celebrated a milestone last Thursday (May 5) with its 40th annual “Hawick Night” concert. A big audience gathered in the church, ready to be treated to the talents of the town’s Saxhorn Band, Stirches Primary School choir, as well as the youthful contributions of Euan Welsh, Corey Tait and Ben McCreadie. Linden Warburton accompanied on the piano and Robert Scott, now a comparative veteran leaving his teens, was, as usual brilliant. The whole evening was expertly guided by ex-Cornet Ian Nichol.

Hownam

Whist drive

The annual SWI whist will take place on May 24 in Hownam Hall at 7.30pm.

Towford SWI

Wendy Hickson demonstrated how to prepare several easy summer salads, followed by a tasting session, at the latest meeting. Competition – individual cold sweet – 1, Mary Towers; 2, Jean Douglas. The next event is the summer outing to Born in the Borders for a brewery tour and supper – meet at 6.30pm.

Innerleithen

Church

The service on Sunday, May 15, starts at 11.30am. There will also be an ecumenical service for Christian Aid Week at 6.30pm.

Coffee morning

St Ronan’s Ex-Standard Bearers’ Association will hold a coffee morning on Saturday, May 14, in the Vale Club from 10am till noon.

Bowls taster

Fancy a go at one of the most inclusive sports in the world? Then why not come along to St Ronan’s Bowling Club on Saturday, May 14, (10am-4pm) and give it a try. All equipment will be supplied – participants only need bring a flattish pair of shoes/trainers.

Ball tickets

The Standard Bearer’s Ball will take place on Saturday, July 9, in the marquee at St Ronan’s School. Tickets will be on sale at 8am on Saturday, May 28, from The Foresters, Wells Brae. They are priced at £35 per person and payment must be made in full on the day. Members of the Games committee will be on hand to receive applications at 8am and none will be taken before this time. Any applications left before 8am will be considered following the public sale. Tickets will be distributed following the sale, so applicants should ensure a contact name and address is included with each application.

Family fun

Innerleithen Family Fun Day will take place on Sunday, May 29, running from 1-5pm, at St Ronan’s School. There will be a car boot sale and anyone who would like to book a place should call 01896 831721 or email KJBelleville@aol.com - £10 per car. Should any local organisation wish to have a stall at this event, ring 01896 831721 or email KJBelleville@aol.com. The event is being organised by St Ronan’s Silver Band.

Carnival

St Ronan’s Primary School will hold a new summer event, the Road to Rio Carnival, at the school on Thursday, June 9, from 6-8pm.

KELSO

Bridge club

May 4 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, Lesley Dick & Lynda Douglas; 2, Alison Ireland & Aziza Taylor; 3, Rena Stewart & Alex Jeffrey; E/W – 1, Sheena McPherson & Sheila Urquhart; 2, Ian & Eliz Ross; 3, Brian Saywood & Ken Ross. May 5 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, Dominic & Diana Alkin; 2, Jean Henry & Myra Thomson; 3, Michael Horwood & Alison Ireland; E/W – 1, Gerry Eglington & Jon Bridger; 2, Alison Darling & Mary Logan; 3, David Harris-Burland & Sheila Urquhart.

Stitchers

Kelso Stitchers will not have an evening meeting on Tuesday, May 24, as they are going on an outing to the Dovecote studios in Edinburgh.

Langholm

Awards

Martin Tedham, who was born and brought up in the town, celebrated with his family when their business recently won two awards. Martin, managing director of Wasdell Packaging in Swindon, Wiltshire, and his son Daniel and daughter Jessica were delighted to win the medium-sized enterprise of the year award, and the prize for outstanding excellence, at the Wiltshire Business Awards. Wasdell is one of the largest and most experienced contract packaging suppliers to the healthcare pharmaceutical and veterinary markets in Europe, supplying UK manufacturers and shipping to 47 countries around the world. Martin and his wife, Carol, still have a home and family members in the town, and come back to stay when possible. He also has a business interest in the town as owner of the Crown Hotel.

Youth awards

The rugby club held its end-of-season youth celebrations and family awards night at Milntown. Davie Gordon, youth co-ordinator, organised the event and gave an illustrated talk on the progress made during the past year. There was a short speech from the various coaches and presentations were made to age-group players.

LAUDER

Historical society

The AGM is on Wednesday, May 18, at 7.30pm in Lauder Youth Trust Hall. Free tea/coffee and biscuits – all welcome. Further details from Joan Stevens (01578 722559).

Lauder in Bloom

The annual hanging basket workshop on Saturday, May 28, runs from 10am-noon in Lauder Public Hall where Lauder in Bloom volunteers will be giving help and advice on planting hanging baskets and window boxes for people to take take home. There will also be lots of information about everything Lauder in Bloom has been up to, from planting-up beds and planters to making bird houses and giant bug hotels with the local Brownies and Guides. There will also be a variety of children’s planting and crafting sessions, as well as home baking and gardening information. Lauder in Bloom’s Garden Showcase competition runs again this year and winners will be announced and prizes presented at Lauder Flower Show on Saturday, August 27, in Lauder Public Hall.

Church

Worship last Sunday was led by The Worship Team at both Channelkirk and Lauder. Services on Sunday, May 15, will take place at Channelkirk (10am) and Lauder (11.30am), both led by the Reverend Rae Clark. Christian Aid Week runs from May 15-22. The guild coffee morning held last Saturday realised over £48 for guild funds.

Lindean

SWI

President Margaret Milne welcomed members to the AGM and quiz night. Treasurer Margaret McKinlay gave her report, which was accepted. Mrs Milne recalled events of the past year, the highlight being last month’s 90th birthday party which the national president, Christine Hutton, attended. The new committee was elected as follows – president, Marjorie Lawrie; vice-president, Valerie Mayo; secretary, Margaret Oliver; treasurer and magazine secretary, Margaret McKinlay; Edith Scott, Diana Murray, Maureen Ewart, Grace Aitchison, Margaret Inglis and Eileen MacFarlane. After the usual business, the group enjoyed a quiz compiled by Mrs Milne. The winner was Jean Rodin, with Edith Scott and Ruth McLachlan second equal. Raffle winners – Sandra Todd, Jean Rodin and Valerie Mayo. The cup for most points over the year went to Margaret Inglis, and second equal were Valerie Mayo and Margaret Oliver. The cup for most entries went to Edith Scott.

melrose

Trimontium

Benito Mussolini with a labourer’s pick poised in his hands, high above his head, ready to demolish yet another piece of mediaeval Rome, was the startling image that began Newcastle University’s Jeremy Paterson’s talk in the parish church hall last Thursday. The dictator was obsessed with getting back to the Rome of the emperors (with himself as the emperor), so the buildings and narrow streets of mediaeval Rome had to go, continuing the work of Pope Sixtus V in creating broad avenues, but not towards churches this time, but the sites of Ancient Rome. The city had grown organically, unplanned, with tidying up here and there by Augustus and others, but Mussolini wanted “grandeur” to impress people. The lecture showed a master at work. Ian Dalton voiced the thanks of

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an appreciative audience for the originality and clarity of presentation, and the technical expertise of Team Collin in showing the images so well researched.

Parish church

Sunshine eventually greeted worshippers at Bowden and later at Melrose where the numbers were swelled by a walking group from Lesmahagow and a Kilmarnock coachload on an away day with their minister. Organisers are grateful for all the donations towards last Sunday’s presentations and lunch. May 14 – Holy Trinity Concert; May 15 – services at Bowden (9.30am) and Melrose (11am); Eildon Singers’ spring concert, 7.30pm; May 15-21 – Christian Aid Week collection and coffee morning; May 17 – pre-meeting for World Day of Prayer; May 19 – kirk session.

morebattle

Coffee morning

A coffee morning will be held on Saturday, May 14, at 10.30am in the institute in aid of Blood Bikes.

Cheviot Churches

One only morning service at Shotton Farm at 11am to celebrate the Harvest of the Lambs on Sunday, May 22.

Archive

A good turnout for a trip down memory lane was held last Monday night in connection with Morebattle Archive. This was an open night with photograhic archive by Dick Warren, and Anne Brown took the audience on a journey of memories of the village.

NEWMILL

SWI

At the May open night, Liz Howieson welcomed visiting members and started with congratulations to Caroline Tullie – first-time grandmother – and Wilton Dean for their win in the SWI choir competition. She then introduced the speaker for the night, Will Roberts. Pat Douglas also welcomed him with a very apt song, “I’m gonna do it all someday”. Will treated the audience to a slide-illustrated account of his climb of Kilimanjaro last year – at the age of 70. Will and his fellow climbers have raised a total of £192,000 in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland (MNDS). The raffle and proceeds from the sales table were donated to MNDS to add a further £100. Pat Douglas gave a vote of thanks on behalf of Newmill and Teviothead, while Ann Reid, Group H advisor and federation treasurer, did likewise behalf of the visitors. Competitions – lemon curd – 1, Muriel Baptie; 2, Sally Martin; 3, Alison Barker. The visitors’ winner was Kate Elliot of Ewes SWI. Postcard featuring a mountain – 1, Sally Martin; 2, Muriel Baptie; 3, Jan Little.

oxnam

Library cafe

The next library cafe is on Wednesday, May 18, in the hall from 11am-noon.

oxton

SWI

The April meeting welcomed local florist Marie White, who brought along a variety of spring flowers and demonstrated simple, but very effective ways to display the flowers in different style vases. She recalled many happy stories from her years as a florist. A lucky dip was held and many members were fortunate to go home with spring flowers. The next meeting is on Wednesday, May 18, at 7.30pm in Oxton Village Hall. This will be the AGM, followed by a “taste and try” based on birthday party treats.

peebles

Farmers’ market

Priorsford P7 pupils are holding a farmers’ market in the school grounds on May 27, from 11am-1.30pm. There will be fruits, meats, baked goods and lots of other local produce. The aim of the event is to support local businesses, but the youngsters are also running a few stalls.

selkirk

Antiquarian society

The next meeting is on Wednesday, May 18, at 7.30pm in Selkirk Parish Church hall. There will be a short AGM and then Alistair Hutton will present his talk, “Erskine Hospital 1916 - 2016”. The society offers many different topics in an informal setting.

ST BOSWELLS

Gaelic song

Gaelic singing for fun – a come-and-try workshop with Mary Low and members of the Borders Gaelic singing group, Turas. Suitable for complete beginners and more experienced singers. The venue is St Boswells village hall (10am-noon) and the event is on Saturday, May 28.

STICHILL

SWI

Kathy Wilkie welcomed guests from Broomlands, Earlston, Greenlaw, Heiton, Newtown, St Boswells and Yetholm to the visitors’ evening. A welcome was also extended to Helen Moffat, federation vice-chairman. A fashion show, put on by Liba of Kelso, gave everyone a chance to see the new spring/summer clothing. Supper was served and the raffle drawn. Competitions – bangle – visitors – 1, Janette Corcoran (Newtown); 2, Margaret Redpath (St Boswells); 3, Marilyn McCall (St Boswells); members – 1, Jean McDermid; 2, Jane Charles; 3, Yvonne Wood; fudge – 1, Susan Pike; 2, Erica Smith; 3, Kathy Wilkie. The next meeting will be the AGM on June 7 at 7pm. Members should bring voting slips and a photograph of themselves as a baby.

teviothead

SWI

See Newmill district.

Traquair

Service

The next service in Traquair Kirk will be on Sunday, May 22, at 10am.

WalkerBurn

Service

The service on Sunday, May 15, starts at 10am.

YETHOLM

Plant sale

Floral Gateway holds its annual village green plant sale on Saturday, May 14, from 10am outside the village shop.

SWI

A whist drive takes place on May 17 in the Youth Hall (7.30pm).

Lunch

A village lunch will take place in the Wauchope Hall on Thursday, May 19, at noon. Proceeds to Christian Aid.

Service

The annual Harvest of the Lambs service will this year be held at Shotton Farm on Sunday, May 22, at 11am.

A plea on Facebook led to the recovery of a vehicle stolen from a remote farm, Selkirk Sheriff Court was told on Monday.

When police officers came across the Isuzu 4x4, they found Stuart McCutcheon, 28, asleep in its driver’s seat.

But he refused to open the door and the officers had to smash the window of the vehicle to get access.

McCutcheon, of Anderson Place, Hawick, was jailed for 72 days after admitting stealing the vehicle and then going on a spending spree with the owner’s credit card.

He pleaded guilty to theft of the vehicle from Lindean Moor Farm and its contents, including a bank credit card on December 10.

McCutcheon then used the bank card at the Spar shop in Scott Street and Tesco store, both Galashiels, to obtain items to the value of £93.28 by fraud.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said: “The owner of the vehicle left her keys on the seat as she was dealing with a child and forgot about them. When she looked out two hours later, the vehicle was gone.

“An appeal was put out on Facebook appealing for people to keep an eye out for the vehicle, and it was spotted parked up in Selkirk and the police informed.”

Defence lawyer Ed Hulme said: “The events happened at a chaotic time in his life.”

DRIVER NEARLY FIVE TIMES LIMIT

A Jedburgh man has been banned from the road for 18 months after being caught driving while almost five times the legal alcohol limit.

Jamie Milner, 27, of Exchange Street, appeared from custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday and pleaded guilty to the offence, which happened during the early hours of the same day.

His breath-alcohol count was 108 microgrammes, the legal limit being 22.

He was arrested after a Ford Fiesta was found on its side on the A698 at Bonjedward. No one was injured in the collision.

As well as the disqualification, Milner was fined £300.

n Police have also arrested a 35-year-old man for alleged drink-driving after a two-vehicle road traffic collision at Bongate, Jedburgh, on Sunday.

The incident involved an Audi TT car and a motorcycle. No one was seriously injured.

The man was released on an undertaking to appear at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, May 30.

ROBBERY AND ASSAULT CHARGES

A Galashiels teenager appeared in private at Selkirk Sheriff Court accused of assault and robbery.

The 17-year-old – who cannot be named for legal reasons – made no plea or declaration and his case was continued for further examination.

It follows an incident in Galashiels on Saturday.

Sheriff Peter Paterson released him on bail subject to conditions.

DANGEROUS DRIVING REMAND

A Hawick man has been remanded in custody after admitting a dangerous driving charge at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Remo Nardini, 57, pleaded guilty to driving at excessive speed on the A7 at Branxholme and on various streets in Hawick on April 6 and driving the wrong way along a one-way street, forcing drivers of other vehicles to take evasive action.

He also admitted a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour by making offensive gestures, persistently pressing his car horn and causing the car engine to make excessive noise.

Nardini pleaded guilty to charges of failing to stop when required to do so by a police officer, breaching his home curfew and pushing a blanket down a toilet and jumping on it in his cell at Jedburgh police station too.

Sheriff Peter Paterson called for background reports and deferred sentence until Monday, May 30.

MAN PUNCHED WOMAN’S HEAD

A Galashiels man who breached his restriction-of-liberty order has been told to pay £400 instead.

Dean McCallum, 24, had been told to stay within his Torwoodlee Road home between 10pm and 5am every day, but he breached the order, saying it was causing him problems with employment as a job had come up in Aberdeen.

He pleaded guilty to punching a woman to the head, causing her to fall to the ground and strike her head on a sig post in Gala Park, Galashiels, on January 18.

McCallum was fined £200 and ordered to pay the woman £200 in compensation.

DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE

A Tweedbank woman involved in a domestic disturbance has been ordered to be of good behaviour for the next three months.

Angela Campbell, 38, of Cotgreen Road, pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner, shouting and swearing, and throwing items at her partner whereby he was injured.

MAN DENIES TEXTS ALLEGATION

A Galashiels man has denied persistently sending text messages of a sexual nature to his ex-wife.

Graham Manczak, 39, of Primrose Bank, denies engaging in a course of conduct which caused his former wife fear and alarm by persistently sending text messages of a sexual nature, abusive and offensive messages and persistently telephoning her at home between June 1, 2015, and January 25 this year.

He will stand trial on Tuesday, June 7.

NIGHTCLUB ASSAULT CHARGE

A Galashiels man has denied assaulting another man in a nightclub.

Lee Burrell, 22, of Glendinning Terrace, pleaded not guilty to attempting to punch a man at the Warehouse in Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, on February 1 last year and assaulting another man.

He will stand trial on Tuesday, June 7.

RACIST REMARKS TRIAL DATE SET

A Hawick woman has been accused of uttering racially-offensive remarks to a man.

The crime is alleged to have happened at Sentry Knowe in Selkirk on February 28.

Karen Brown, 33, of Loan, is also charged with hiring a taxi from Channel Street in Galashiels to Sentry Knowe in Selkirk with no intention of paying the £28 fare.

She pleaded not guilty to both charges, and a trial date was set for Thursday, July 21, with an intermediate hearing on Monday, June 20.

ARREST WARRANT

A teenager who admitted carrying out an assault in a Galashiels street in broad daylight but failed to show up for sentence has had a warrant issued for his arrest.

Shane Adamson, 19, pleaded guilty to striking Mark McCarry to his head and attempting to hit him on the body to his injury in Melrose Road last month at around 4.40pm.

Adamson, of Kingsland Square, Peebles, had been released on bail with the special condition not to enter Galashiels unless in transit.

ACCUSED OF NOT PAYING BILL

A Galashiels man has been accused of obtaining more than £3,000 hotel board without paying.

William Moffat, 48, of Abbotsford Road, is charged with obtaining £3,175 board and lodgings at the Lodge, Carfraemill, near Lauder, between September 7 and October 22 last year without paying or intending to pay.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge, and a trial date has been fixed for Tuesday, June 7.

DISQUALIFIED FOR 14 MONTHS

A Stow man who drove home after a funeral while almost four times the legal alcohol limit has been banned from the road for 14 months at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Alexander Pringle, 33, of Lugate, pleaded guilty to the offence, which happened in Galashiels on February 20.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said the accused was spotted driving a Mitsbushi pick-up at 3am far too fast in wet conditions and was stopped by police.

Defence lawyer Ross Dow said: “He had lost his jacket, which meant he had lost his phone and wallet.”

The solicitor added: “It was after a funeral where he had a few drinks and took a chance. He has kept saying how stupid it was.”

Pringle was also fined £250.

An architect caught drink-driving twice within the space of 24 hours has been banned from the road for three years.

Malcolm McLeman, 55, was more than double the legal alcohol limit for getting behind the wheel after police caught up with him at his home near Innerleithen following a complaint about the manner of his driving on the night of Monday, January 11.

The following afternoon, the same officers recognised McLeman’s car, and it was again being driven erratically.

They stopped him on the A72 road just outside Peebles, and he was found to have an alcohol reading of 41 microgrammes in breath, the legal limit being 22.

His lawyer, Graeme Runcie, told Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday that the offences happened during a stressful period in his client’s life.

He explained that McLeman’s elderly parents were seriously ill and his own relationship was under strain, as well as his self-employed architecture business being under pressure.

Mr Runcie said one of McLeman’s business colleagues had just passed away and that “suddenly tipped him over the edge, and he sought comfort in alcohol”.

McLeman, of Nether Horsburgh, had initially been charged with being almost four times the legal alcohol limit for the January 11 offence, but it was accepted that by the time police officers arrived at his home, he had consumed further alcohol since driving.

He pleaded guilty to a reduced amount of 48 microgrammes.

Sheriff Peter Paterson fined McLeman a total of £550 after he admitted two drink-driving offences, and he disqualified him from driving for three years.

He also put him forward for a drink-drivers’ rehabilitation scheme which will result in a 25% reduction in the length of the ban if the course is successfully completed.

Borders butchers have been proven to be at the forefront of their industry after the first national evaluation of gluten-free meat products.

Local butchers Allan Learmonth, Shaws Fine Meats and James Pringle have emerged from the inaugural review with flying colours.

The 2016 Scottish Craft Butcher Awards gave businesses throughout Scotland the opportunity to showcase the work they have been doing to develop gluten-free meat products.

Increasing numbers of consumers are seeking out gluten-free alternatives, and it is hoped that the awards will help direct those in need of the speciality products to craft butchers recognised at a national level for their quality blends.

Following judging at City of Glasgow College, Allan Learmonth, of Jedburgh, was given a gold award for his gluten-free Lorne sausage and a silver one for his pork sausages.

James Pringle, of Hawick, picked up a gold award for his Boerewors Sausage.

Shaws Fine Meats, of Lauder, received a gold award for its gluten-free breakfast sausage and a silver award for its pork-and-chive sausage.

Allan said the awards showed how the profile of gluten-free food had changed over recent years.

“It’s a bit of a challenge coming up with new things, especially because even just a few years ago, people tended to think that gluten-free food was bland, ut we’re always looking for something different to offer people – not just coeliacs, but everybody,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of new marinades, for example, that we can make use of.”

He added: “These awards are great because, even with the recent developments, people are not always sure what’s out there, and it’s great to make them more aware.”

Judging took place for a lamb product evaluation at the same venue, and Allan also rtook home a silver award for his lamb-and-mint sausages.

Perth butcher Beaton Lindsay, president of Scottish Craft Butchers, added:“We run these evaluations to recognise the innovation and expertise that goes into the quality products that craft butchers make.

“Customers are becoming increasingly interested in sourcing the very best meat products available, and our evaluation aids the customer finding all the good products out there at our specialist butchers.”

This week’s DVD release sees filmmaker Quentin Tarantino return to the Western genre with his trademark, blood-spattered style. We’re looking at The Hateful Eight.

In his last outing, Django Unchained, Tarantino delivered a story of bounty hunters amidst the brutality of slavery in the south of the USA. The Hateful Eight takes us to a time after the American Civil War and although slavery has been abolished, brutality still looms large.

The film is based on a fairly basic set-up. A harsh winter storm forces an unlikely group together in a remote wild west outpost. The film title refers to the eight main characters and it’s an accurate description. They’re a pretty hateful bunch.

Kurt Russell plays John “Hangman” Ruth, a bounty hunter taking murderer Daisy Domergue, played by Jennifer Jason Leigh, to Red Rock by stagecoach in order to collect a reward. He comes across the stranded fellow bounty hunter Major Marquis Warren, played by Samuel L Jackson, and it isn’t long until they’re thrown into an uneasy alliance.

The arrival of a semi-reformed confederate soldier and soon-to-be Sheriff of Red Rock Chris Mannix, played by Walton Goggins, ups the tension in the stagecoach. As the storm worsens the group are forced to take shelter with some strangers, and the body count starts to rise.

Much like Django Unchained, Tarantino’s latest draws heavily from the Spaghetti Western tradition, complete with a soundtrack by the great Ennio Morricone. With a cast of memorably rancorous characters and an unflinching approach to violence the filmmaker is in familiar territory.

What’s also familiar is the stylistic flourish of the film. The cinematography is fantastic, capturing the wild and unruly nature of the Old West, and creating a sparse backdrop for the brutal events which unfold.

The pacing is less successful. It’s a long film and much of it is spent indulging a wordy script which doesn’t say an awful lot. Still, if you can forgive the odd slow segment there’s enough in The Hateful Eight to keep you watching until the bloody finale.

One of Scotland’s most respected songwriters will notch up his fourth visit to Selkirk’s String Jam Club next Saturday night.

Rab Noakes has, over the past two years, battled cancer of the tonsils to get his career back on track, and his new album ‘I’m Walkin Here’ – his 19th solo album – was finally released in October.

Once described as “the closest Scotland has to musical royalty”, Rab was a founder member of Stealers Wheel with the legendary Gerry Rafferty, he has also been involved in major collaborations with Lindisfarne, and Barbara Dickson.

And it was music, he says, as well as the support of his wife, that got him through his illness: “It kept me going, even through the tough parts.”

More widely he is known as a man who can make things happen: he has worked as Head of Entertainment at BBC Radio Scotland, runs his own record label and media production company, Neon, and is on the Executive Committee of the Musicians Union.

Rab will be appearing at the String Jam Club at The County Hotel on Saturday, May 21.

Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £14 and are available from the County Hotel on 01750 721233. Credit card bookings incur a 50p card transaction fee.

An open event in Hawick next week will launch a new pilot scheme which aims to allow older people to drive safely for longer.

The event takes place on Wednesday 18 May from 10am to 3pm at Sainsbury’s Car Park on Commercial Road and will see police, fire service and driving instructors on hand to provide information and advice.

There will also be an opportunity to sign up to the Borders Driver Gold Scheme, which is initially being run in Hawick. The pilot is aimed at helping drivers over 60 years of age to update their driving skills and confidence on the road.

The scheme offers information and advice through a new booklet available from Scottish Borders Safer Communities Team.

There are also free awareness sessions taking place in June at Burnfoot Community Hub. The theory workshops are led by local driving instructors and safety officers to give attendees the chance to get a better understanding of changes to roads, traffic and laws which have taken place in recent years.

The scheme also allows older drivers to book a 90 minute practical driving session with an instructor, which is not a test of skills and knowledge but an opportunity to increase confidence and practice any areas that may need updated.

Paul Richardson, Community Safety Officer at Scottish Borders Council, said: “Older drivers have been identified as being at a greater risk than other groups of being injured in road accidents.

“As people get older their general health and abilities can deteriorate. This may be a gradual process and people might not realise it is happening to them, so will not necessarily notice if their driving is affected. They may struggle to deal with some aspects of today’s roads.

“To continue driving safely, there is a need to recognise that changes can happen, and seek help and advice to be able to drive safely for longer.

“As a result, we have launched this pilot in Hawick and hope it will be well received and can be rolled out across other areas of the Borders.”

The event on 18 May is open to all and will also cover other safety issues such as fire safety and how to avoid being the victim of scams and bogus callers.

The awareness sessions take place on Wednesday 15 June (1.30pm to 3.30pm) and Monday 27 June (10am to 12noon) at Burnfoot Community Hub. These sessions are also free but booking is required – phone 01835 825656 or email safercommunities@scotborders.gov.uk.

The practical driving sessions are £35 and payable to the instructor on the day. A full list of driving instructors taking part is available from the Safer Communities Team.

After years of back-and-forth of will they won’t they, Hawick Wanderers and PSA finally look set to merge and move forward under the same banner from next season.

The potential merger is designed with the goal of improving the standard of rugby in the town while enhancing the quality of player the likes of Hawick Linden, Harlequins, YM and Hawick RFC would gain when the players become eligible for senior rugby.

There is as yet no concrete, official motion of an agreement but the Hawick News understands an announcement on the merger is likely to be in the medium-to-short term, with both parties speaking this week for the first time indicating an agreement is all but secured.

“Both clubs have provisionally agreed to train together and work as one, beginning in pre-season,” said Wanderers coach Gerry McGuiness.

Hawick PSA coach Graeme Canoon added: “This merger has been a long time coming, and while it is not completely set-in-stone, we all understand that this is the best way forward for rugby in Hawick.”

The agreement is an undoubted victory for Hawick rugby and Hawick RFC – the driving force behind these negotiations.

Under the current proposals, both clubs will remain and compete separately in the Borders Semi-Junior league but will train together and share the player pool. For the 2016/17 season the Wanderers will take on the role of the A team and PSA will be used as a developmental side or B team. Then for the 2017/18 season the teams will swap with PSA becoming the A team and Wanderers the B.

“An agreement like this can only be a good thing for Hawick rugby,” said Cannon.

“There’s so much potential in Hawick and hopefully this agreement really helps provide the platform to develop more talented youngsters.”

Road Policing Officers carried out patrols and checks on the main roads of Fife, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders yesterday, Wednesday 11th May, stopping over 150 vehicles, including Large Goods Vehicles for safety checks.

Officers from the Trunk Roads Patrol Group, supported by colleagues in Stirling, Fife and the Borders Divisional Road Policing Units patrolled main roads including the A977, A985 and the A68.

Two goods vehicles were found to be dangerously overweight and were prohibited from continuing their journey, whilst two further goods vehicles were prohibited due to defective brakes. Two endorsable fixed penalty notices were issued to motorists travelling at excessive speeds and two were issued to drivers for using their mobile phones whilst driving. Three vehicles were seized for having no insurance.

A 53-year-old man was charged with careless driving for tailgating and a 35-year-old female was reported for careless driving for colliding with a cyclist on a roundabout. The cyclist sustained minor injuries.

Meanwhile, six people received warnings and corrective guidance for breaking the speed limit while 23 others were warned for miscellaneous offences including minor vehicle defects.

In addition, 27 vehicle defect reports were detected and three vehicles seized for various motoring offences, including a 66-year-old man driving as a provisional licence holder unsupervised.

Assisting with the activity in the Borders was the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

Inspector Roddy MacMillan, Trunk Roads Inspector for the East of Scotland said: “It’s disappointing to report that a number of drivers were caught exceeding the speed limit and using mobile phones while driving and others driving vehicles with serious defects.

“Their actions demonstrate a total disregard for the safety of themselves and other road users and the consequences can be disastrous.

“I would urge people to slow down, use their observations and concentrate on the road ahead. As drivers, we have a responsibility to ensure that our vehicles are roadworthy. Please take the time to check your vehicles lights, tyres and brakes prior to commencing your journey.

“Road Policing Officers from Forth Valley, Fife, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders have been concentrating on the objectives of Operation Alternate. This is an ongoing initiative throughout the year and my officers will be focussing on the detection of road crime and offences.

“The intention of this campaign is to influence road user behaviour and make Scotland’s roads safer, by promoting safe and responsible driving throughout the trunk roads network in Scotland, raising awareness and reducing the number of casualties from road collisions.

“Ultimately we want to reduce road crime and disrupt criminals on our roads.

“I would also like to issue a warning to those that continue to drive on Scotland’s roads whilst uninsured or not having an appropriate driving licence. You will get caught. So please do not risk it.”