The Transport Interchange building in Galashiels has been open for 12 months – and has recorded more than 72,000 bus departures in its first year of operation.

The landmark building was opened to the public in August 2015 and now sees up to 3,000 people per day using the facility to access bus and rail services.

Almost 1,400 bus departures take place every week across all operators, while four commercial tenants currently operate in the building.

And while there is office space remaining, interest has been shown in the prime location.

In addition, 110 events have been hosted in the conference facilities since it opened – from major business events to children’s birthday parties.

The building also won a Scottish Property Award in the Town Centre Regeneration Project of the Year category in March.

Open 21 hours a day to allow access to bus and train services, other facilities in the TI include a café, tourist information, bus and train real-time information and a railway ticket machine.

There are also showers, toilets and bike lockers to promote cycling and walking.

Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, Councillor Gordon Edgar, said: “The aim of the Transport Interchange when it opened one year ago was to provide a gateway to Galashiels and the Borders.

“With the number of people now using the facility to travel on the Borders Railway or on one of the various bus services, it is clear that the award-winning building is fulfilling this role.

“Staff in the TI have welcomed visitors from the across the world, with one employee even lending a bike to a visitor from New Zealand who wanted to cycle around the region.

“In addition, there is growing interest in the office space on offer, with four companies having so far chosen to set up in the building.

“We want to build on this initial success and ensure the Transport Interchange achieves its long term aim of promoting better connections between all means of sustainable transport.”

Andy Drane, partner at Davidson Chalmers which is one of the tenants in the Transport Interchange, added: “Being based in the Interchange has been a game-changer for how we deliver our services in the central Borders.

“Before that, if I wanted to visit a client in the Borders, it took half a day or sometimes a day out of the office.

“Now, our lawyers can get on the train at Waverley station, do some work on the train and come off at the Interchange to meet clients a couple of minutes afterwards. It is a complete transformation.”

The computer system at Borders College was hit by a ransomware virus last week, which meant enrolment of new students had to be completed manually.

Claire Nairn, head of student services, said: “Over the past few days, the college experienced some ICT difficulties as a result of a virus which affected a number of stored files in some of our staff working directories. Working with our anti-virus software provider, the college’s ICT staff have been able to isolate and remove the virus and restore files.

“It is important to note that the virus did not affect the data in the college’s management information systems and no student details or files were compromised.”

Deaf children and their families in the south of Scotland are being invited to a free family day at Bowhill House, near Selkirk.

The event, on Saturday, September 10, from 10am-3pm, will be open to any deaf children up to 16 years old and their immediate family living in Dumfries and Galloway, the Borders, Midlothian and East Lothian.

Heather Gray, director of the National Deaf Children’s Society in Scotland, said: “Families of deaf children in the south of Scotland can experience geographical isolation, with numbers spread across a wide rural area.

“This event is crucial in bringing them together to meet other families of deaf children and to give them a chance to find out about all the support available in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.”

The charity’s new deaf awareness roadshow bus, pictured, will be featured.

Guests will meet other deaf children and families, share a barbeque lunch and find out about local services, technology and support. They can also enjoy fun activities such as pond dipping and face painting, and explore the adventure playground, nature trails and beautiful scenery up for grabs at Bowhill.

The event is free, but places must be booked online at southofscotday.eventbrite.co.uk

A visit to Borders General Hospital by Healthcare Improvement Scotland inspectors revealed elderly patients being treated with compassion, dignity and respect.

It was a very different picture from that outlined in a previous inspection report when the care of older people caused concern among inspectors.

After making a raft of changes, NHS Borders chief executive, Jane Davidson asked Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) to assess the care of older people in Borders General Hospital. Her actions were also prompted by a report which followed an investigation of a complaint about the care of older people in Borders General Hospital, published by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman in December 2015.

Revealing the findings of their latest inspection, HIS said that NHS Borders’ culture is changing to become more focused on learning and ensuring that the care it provides is increasingly person-centred.

Speaking of the report, Claire Sweeney, interim director of quality assurance for Healthcare Improvement said: “During this review we saw clear evidence of changes to the leadership and culture in NHS Borders. We are pleased to see that staff and patient representatives have reported a positive shift in culture that is increasingly focused on the patient.

“This change has been led by the leadership team and board members, and filtered throughout the organisation. These changes will help NHS Borders to continue to improve.

“We have highlighted a number of areas of good practice and some areas for further improvement. We will continue to engage with the NHS board.”

NHS Borders chief executive Jane Davidson, explained: “I took this step because as an organisation we are committed to providing good quality care, and as a direct result of the complaint reported on by the Scottish Public Sector Ombudsman”, explained Jane.

“The observations of the inspectors provide us with an independent, robust view of the quality of care we provide.”

The report identifies eight areas of good practice, commends the person-centred, learning culture, enthusiasm for change and improvement, and identifies 12 areas for improvement.

NHS Borders chairman, John Raine said; “This report is encouraging, constructive and helpfully identifies the areas in which there is scope for improvement.

“The recognition of our ongoing work around leadership and governance as an area of good practice, and the change to an increasingly person centred culture is endorsed by the positive feedback gathered by the inspectors from patients, families and carers.”

The following have been named the top 10 jokes at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Insert your own laughs or groans where applicable ...

The number of second-hand cars sold in the UK has hit a record high in the first half of 2016.

There was a 7.9 per cent growth in the used car market over the same period in 2015, with more than 4 million vehicles changing hands.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed that 4.18 million second-hand vehicles were sold in the first six months of the year - the first time such sales have exceeded four million.

The rise in used car sales accompanied a continued growth in new car sales, although deals on brand new models only rose by three per cent over the same period.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said: “The UK’s used car market is at its strongest ever, and that’s great news for buyers spoilt for choice with the latest advanced vehicle technology and attractive financing options.”

As well as being the UK’s best-selling new car the Ford Fiesta topped the table in used car sales, with 60,000 models being sold on.

In fact, small family cars (27.2 per cent) and superminis (33 per cent) accounted for almost two thirds of all used car transactions.

April saw the largest number of sales, reflecting the registration plate change at the end of March, and models between one and three years old were the preferred purchase, according to the SMMT figures.

While the latest figures mirror growth seen in 2015, Mr Hawes warned that continued expansion of the market was not guaranteed.

“The growth in the used car market has reflected the record demand for new cars in recent years, but future growth in high-cost purchases will depend on stable consumer and business confidence,” he said.

People are being encouraged to enter a nationwide competition to become the permanent voice of BT’s iconic talking clock.

The competition has been launched to celebrate the service’s 80th anniversary.

Around 12 million calls are still made to the clock by dialling 123.

The winner will become only the fifth permanent voice of the clock in its history.

The current voice of the clock, Sara Mendes da Costa, who will be one of the judges, said: “I’m so honoured to have been the voice - only the fourth permanent voice in history - and to be part of such an iconic service.

“I’m sad to be at the end of my time as the voice of the BT Speaking Clock, however ten years is not a bad run. And it’ll be great to be on the judging panel to choose the new voice, just as my predecessor Brian Cobby helped choose me.”

The competition to find a new voice will help raise money for the BBC Children in Need appeal. BT will donate 10p to Children in Need from each call to the BT Speaking Clock from the start of the competition in August until November 9.

To celebrate the competition and the 80th anniversary, BT are donating the original speaking clock machines from 1936 and 1963 to the British Horological Institute (BHI), where they have been on loan and on display for some years.

It will also be donating a digital Mark IV clock, which was recovered from Liverpool. This machine transmitted the voice of Brian Cobby from 1985 – 2001.

David Hay, head of BT Heritage, said: “Eighty years ago BT’s technology first created the Speaking Clock and it remains a much loved part of British life today.

“Celebrating in this way demonstrates BT’s determination to preserve the heritage of the world’s oldest communications company on behalf of the nation.”

Anyone ten years and over can enter. The competition is being run in partnership with BBC television programme The One Show.

Aspiring voice artists should visit the website at The One Show where they will find full details of how to enter.

The website will be open for entries until 10pm on Monday, August 29 2016.

The Cola-Cola glass bottle has been voted as the most iconic packaging on the UK’s shelves.

A study of 1500 Brits exploring the influence of packaging and branding on shopping habits found that one in six people thought the Coca-Cola bottle was the most identifiable in terms of packaging.

Indeed, it was deemed to be just as recognisable without its logo or the product itself.

The research, commissioned by Easyfairs, organisers of Packing Innovations and Luxury Packaging London, found the Toblerone triangular chocolate bar finished as a close runner up, with Marmite’s glass jar rated as third-best-loved product packaging.

Beauty brands, such as the Tiffany Box and the Chanel No.5 Bottle just missed out on the top ten.

Coke’s success has been attributed to its targeting younger audience, with one in five Millennials selecting the bottle as the most recognisable pack product.

Pringles’ iconic cylinder tube, fourth on the overall list, was the Millennial’s second favourite.

The study also revealed barcodes as the greatest packaging invention, ahead of more traditional items such as the cardboard box (21 per cent) - although the younger generation, 18-34 years, voted for 3D printing and re-sealable zips as its top two.

Gerry Sherwood, Event Director for the Easyfairs’ Packaging Portfolio, who commissioned the survey, said: “Millennials have officially passed Baby Boomers as the largest generation in history, and are more personally connected to their favourite brands than ever before.

“It is therefore not surprising to see 3D printing come out top in our poll for this age group.”

Top Ten Most Recognisable Brand’s Packaging

1. Coca-Cola Bottle

2. Toblerone Triangle

3. Marmite Jar

4. Pringles Tube

5. KFC Bucket

6. Heinz Ketchup Bottle

7. Fairy Liquid Bottle

8. Apple’s iPhone Box

9. Walkers Crisp Packet

10. Amazon Box

Borders police are appealing for information following a road traffic incident near Eddleston on Sunday.

The incident happened on the Meldons Road, at the Eddleston to Linwater Road, at around 1pm on Sunday, August 21.

A male rider fell from a Vespa scooter and was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with serious injuries.

Sergeant Neil Inglis, of Galashiels Road Policing, said: “We’re appealing for witnesses who might’ve seen the scooter at the time of the incident.

“It’s possible a black car was involved, and we’re trying to establish the full circumstances.”

Those with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101.

The proof of the pudding will be in the eating when it comes to the care of elderly patients in the Borders.

That is the view of Ann Todd whose 91-year-old mother Mary Anderson’s poor treatment triggered a major review and inspection by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) of how older people are cared for at the Borders General Hospital.

The resultant report by the national body, published at the weekend, acknowledges eight areas of good practice, but also make 12 recommendations to NHS Borders on how things can be improved.

In December last year, the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) issued a damning report in the case of dementia sufferer Mrs Anderson from Kelso who was admitted to the BGH from her care home with a blood infection on March 9, 2014.

At that time she could walk with a stick and feed herself independently.

But when she was discharged a month later she could neither stand nor eat without assistance and, within two days of being readmitted to the BGH for “end of life care” on June 13, she was dead.

The litany of failures uncovered in the SPSO probe saw NHS Borders chief executive Jane Davidson issue a public apology to Mrs Todd and her family – and ask for the HIS review which involved a four-day inspection in April.

“The observations of the inspectors provide us with an independent robust view of the quality of care we provide and that is why I requested the review,” said Ms Davidson.

“They help us understand where our improvement work should be focused so we can do more and better for our patients.”

While recognising the good practice which exists and an action plan to deliver the required improvements, the HIS wishlist is underpinned by the need for lessons learned from past complaints and investigations to be shared across the organisation.

“NHS Borders must ensure current legislation protecting the rights of patients who lack capacity is fully and appropriately implemented,” states the report. “It must ensure capacity assessments are carried out for all patients where cognitive impairment or dementia has been identified.

“Mealtimes must be managed in a co-ordinated way with maximum staff input and encouragement and assistance with eating and drinking provided. Patients must have person-centred care plans for all their identified care needs.”

Commenting this week, Mrs Todd said: “I commend Ms Davidson for requesting this review and I welcome the results which give a bench mark so that areas of improvement can be targeted, although we all know that change takes time and the proof of the pudding will be in the eating.

“The most important change since December is the change in culture resulting from corporate objectives which always put patient safety first, but also reflect the values of dignity, respect, care and compassion.

“This must now become embedded in the ethos at the BGH at all levels to ensure what happened to my mother can never happen again.”

The Transport Interchange building in Galashiels has been open for 12 months – and has recorded more than 72,000 bus departures in its first year of operation.

However, while Scottish Borders Council was singing its praises this week, bus users took to The Southern’s Facebook page to highlight the building’s failures.

The landmark building was opened to the public in August 2015 and the council says up to 3,000 people per day use the facility to access bus and rail services.

Almost 1,400 bus departures take place every week across all operators, while four commercial tenants currently operate in the building.

The building won a Scottish Property Award in the Town Centre Regeneration Project of the Year category in March.

It is open 21 hours a day to allow access to bus and train services, while other facilities include a café, tourist information, bus and train real-time information and a railway ticket machine.

There are also showers, toilets and bike lockers to promote cycling and walking.

Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, Councillor Gordon Edgar, said: “The aim of the Transport Interchange when it opened one year ago was to provide a gateway to Galashiels and the Borders.

“With the number of people now using the facility to travel on the Borders Railway or on one of the various bus services, it is clear that the award-winning building is fulfilling this role.

“Staff in the TI have welcomed visitors from the across the world, with one employee even lending a bike to a visitor from New Zealand who wanted to cycle around the region.

“In addition, there is growing interest in the office space on offer, with four companies having so far chosen to set up in the building.

“We want to build on this initial success and ensure the Transport Interchange achieves its long term aim of promoting better connections.”

Andy Drane, partner at Davidson Chalmers which is one of the tenants in the Transport Interchange, said moving to the building has seen “a complete transformation” in how they do business.

However, it is not without its detractors.

On Facebook, Chris Wildig said: “Door handles falling off, toilets packing in, plumbing faults, automatic doors broken, plastering literally falling off the wall, lift broken – all of this has happened (and more) in the first 12 months.

“Add this to the absolute plethora of disrespectful and loud youngsters that sit there all night terrorising the place by riding on scooters, bikes and being cheeky to public, staff and police ... sounds like a massive success.”

Gary Kowbel wrote: “LOL just like the rest of Gala at the moment, it’s a disaster and half-empty.”

And Iain F MacMillan commented: “Sorry but I’ve never really ‘seen’ what use it is – building or staff. The toilets, especially for a new building, are disgusting. The whole place has potential but as it stands it’s just an expensive bus shelter and a safe place for passengers to hang around until near the time for the next train.”

Other comments related to “parcel-tape repairs” and the fact that train passengers had to cross a busy road to get to the building.

There are only a few days left for budding photographers to give themselves a chance of winning the 2016 Alastair Watson Memorial Award and a £50 cash prize.

The trophy, for a photograph by a primary school pupil, was launched in Alastair’s memory by colleagues of the Borders photographer, who died in 2013.

Alastair, who was 60 and lived in Coldstream, worked for the Tweeddale Press Group - publishers of the Berwickshire News, Southern Reporter, Selkirk Weekend Advertiser and Hawick News - for almost four decades. Entries (one photograph per entrant), including caption, should be of a 2016 common riding or festival activity and emailed, in Jpeg format, to watsonaward@jpress.co.uk no later than September 1. The entrant’s name, full address, contact telephone number and date of birth must also be submitted.

A Hawick man has claimed going to prison is like a holiday and jailing him is no punishment.

Twenty-three-year-old Craig Robson made the outburst in the dock at Jedburgh Sheriff Court after receiving an eight-month prison term.

Robson started remonstrating about the sentence as he was led away by a security officer.

But Sheriff Peter Paterson called him back and warned him that his behaviour could lead to an increased sentence.

Robson, of Hillend Drive, then shouted: “Go on then. It is like a holiday. It is no punishment.”

Sheriff Paterson then told security staff: “Take him away.”

Robson had admitted breaching his community payback order by not carrying out unpaid work.

It had been imposed for a series of offences, including spitting at his pregnant partner and threatening to break her jaw in April, attempting to steal a car in Havelock Street in Hawick on December 21, making threats to police that he would petrol bomb an officer’s car and making abusive sexual comments to a female police officer.

Hannah Short, defending, said Robson had a long-standing drug problem. He was currently serving a five-month prison sentence with a release date of October 21, and urged the sheriff not to affect that as he had a one-year-old child at home.

But Sheriff Paterson imposed three jail sentences for the offences, which totalled eight months.

NIGHTCLUB ASSAULT CHARGE

A Galashiels woman accused of assaulting another female in a nightclub will stand trial at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Tamara Turnbull, 21, of High Buckholmside, pleaded not guilty to pushing Amber Blair on the body, causing her to fall to the ground, and then repeatedly punching her on the head.

The alleged assault is said to have taken place in The Warehouse, Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, on December 13.

A trial date has been set for November 8.

BB VOLUNTEER CAN CARRY ON

A 51-year-old Boys’ Brigade helper who admitted being involved in a domestic incident will be able to continue his voluntary work after being given an absolute discharge.

It means Brian Boardman will not have a criminal record and is able to meet disclosure requirements.

He pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at a house in Ferniehurst Drive, Hawick, on May 30. Boardman shouted and swore, made abusive comments, struggled with others and threw items around, resulting in his wife and father-in-law being injured.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said: “He does have certain problems with learning difficulties. The plan was to move to Greenlaw and they were packing bags and boxes.

“It appears that the accused did not want to move to Greenlaw and he became belligerent. He started to throw bags of household items about the place and he struggled with his 72-year-old father-in-law and his wife.

“He was swearing all the time and when he left the house was abusive to a lady in the street as well.”

Natalie Patterson, defending, told the hearing her client was getting his own tenancy in Kelso and had separated from his wife.

She said he was a volunteer helper with the Boys’ Brigade in Hawick, but was told by the captain he would not be able to continue if he got a criminal record.

ROWING NEIGHBOUR

Police were called to the home of Jane Bolton three times on the same night as she rowed with her partner.

The 38-year-old admitted a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour by shouting, screaming and arguing with John Charles at a house in Acredale Road, Eyemouth, on March 9.

The court heard that fed-up neighbours phoned the police three times between 8pm and 11pm as the noise had woken their children. Bolton has since been evicted from the Acredale Road property.

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said Bolton, now of Hinkar Way, Eyemouth, had a background of mental health and addiction issues.

She was fined £175 and ordered to pay £50 each to her two neighbours.

DRIVE BAN FOR BUSINESSMAN

A self-employed businessman who was almost four times the legal alcohol limit has been banned from the road for 12 months.

Gordon Fox, 41, of Lempitlaw Farm Cottages, near Kelso, pleaded guilty to driving with a breath/alcohol count of 80 microgrammes – the legal limit being 22 – on the B6396 on March 20.

Graham Fraser, prosecuting, said the vehicle had been involved in a collision shortly before 4pm and it was found abandoned, partially-blocking the roadway.

When police visited his home Fox confirmed he had been driving. He was initially charged with having a breath/alcohol count of 102 microgrammes – almost five times the limit – but said he had been drinking after he got home and police noticed a glass of wine on the coffee table.

Mr Fraser said: “He took a chance in driving while doing an errand in Kelso. He said he should not have driven and got a lift back after the accident from a neighbour.”

Defence lawyer Ross Dow said his client had been drinking till around 5am the previous morning. Fox had tried to report the accident, but Kelso police station was being renovated at the time.

In addition to the year’s disqualification, he was fined £200.

DISQUALIFIED FOR THREE YEARS

A motorist has been banned from the road for three years.

Russell Fowler, 47, from Coalburn, Lanarkshire, pleaded guilty to drink-driving in Eyemouth and various other roads in Berwickshire earlier this month. He admitted driving with a breath/alcohol count of 58 microgrammes – the legal limit being 22. Fowler also pleaded guilty to failing to appear in court.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said: “The vehicle was involved in a collision in Eyemouth town centre at around 11.30pm. The number plate had been left behind and the police went looking for the Rover car.

“Around about a quarter past midnight the police spotted the car in a lay-by with extensive front end damage. The accused was sleeping in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition.

“At first he said he had not had a drink for three or four hours. But after giving a positive reading he said he had been drinking when the car had come to a stop.

“But he now accepts he had been drinking and driving.”

Defending, Ross Dow said his client had fallen out with his partner and the relationship had been under strain at the time of the offence.

Fowler had a previous conviction, which led to the three-year ban. In addition, he was fined £340.

Social media message threat

A Galashiels man who sent abusive and threatening messages on social media to his former partner and her friends has been remanded in custody.

Jamie West, 31, pleaded guilty to nine counts of sending the messages in June and July from his Beech Avenue home on Face, Instagram and Plenty Of Fish as he was upset at the breakdown of his three-and-a-half year relationship. West also admitted throwing paint over a car parked in Tweed Terrace, Galashiels, on July 14.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said the messages contained threats against his ex-partner and her friends which were very concerning. Ross Dow, defending, admitted they were at the “upper end of the scale”, but his client accepted the relationship was now over.

Sheriff Peter Paterson refused a motion for bail and West was remanded in custody until September 5 to allow background reports to be prepared.

HARE-COURSING MAN FINED

A third member of a hare-coursing gang has been banned from keeping animals for two years.

Anthony Bassford, 31, from Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, admitted hunting a brown hare and a mountain hare with three dogs, along with two others, at Killpallethill, Mayshiel Estate, near Longformacus, Berwickshire, on April 6.

At Jedburgh Sheriff Court, Bassford produced evidence that the two dogs he owns – a lurcher and a spaniel – were now micro-chipped.

Sheriff Peter Paterson said the ban would apply to all animals, apart from the two dogs he already has. Bassford was also fined £400.

At previous hearings, Jason Ellis, 27, from Stoke-on Trent, was fined £300 and John Wilson, 23, of Bedlington, Northumberland, was given a six-month community pay back order involving 70 hours unpaid work for their part in the crime.

DOCTOR IN

THE DOCK

A research doctor appeared from custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court and admitted failing to give two samples of breath after being suspected of drink-driving.

Claire Leiper, 38, of Woodville Terrace, Edinburgh, committed the offence at Kelso police station on Saturday. A not-guilty plea to failing to give a sample of breath when requested to do by police on an unclassified road south of Heiton, near Kelso, on the same day was accepted by the Crown. She had a drink-driving conviction in 2012.

Sentence was deferred until September 20 for the production of background reports and an interim driving ban was imposed.

REMANDED IN CUSTODY

A 43-year-old man was remanded in custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court after being accused of causing fear or alarm to his former partner.

Ian Ramsay is charged with sending messages to her at a house in Fisher Avenue, Hawick, repeatedly attempting to reconcile with her and threatening to expose her on social media between Thursday, August 11, and Sunday, August 14.

Ramsay, of Lady Rig View, Heiton, pleaded not guilty to the charge and a trial date was set for September 22 .

CANNABIS FOUND IN RAID

Police recovered 19 grammes of cannabis, worth around £30, during a raid on a Galashiels flat.

Wojtek Imbiorkiewitz, 26, was initially charged with being concerned in the supply of the drug at his Croft Street home on March 6. But he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of possession of cannabis. Defence lawyer Greg McDonnel insisted the drug was for his personal use. He was fined £125.

POLICE OFFICER HOSPITALISED

Two teenagers who admitted assaulting police officers during a disturbance in Galashiels will be sentenced next month.

David Scougall, 18, of Gala Park Court, Galashiels, pleaded guilty at Selkirk Sheriff Court to a total of five offences – committed at his home on July 5 – including kicking two officers.

A 16-year-old female – who cannot be named for legal reasons – admitted charges of struggling violently with two police officers and assaulting a female constable which resulted in the officer being hospitalised. Sentence was deferred until September 12 for reports, including a restriction-of-liberty assessment, to be prepared.

Nearly six times the limit

A Galashiels woman has admitted driving while almost six times the legal alcohol limit.

Martha Eckel, 38, of Tulley Court, pleaded guilty to driving on the Melrose bypass, A68 and in Coldingham on July 28 with a breath/alcohol count of 124 microgrammes – the legal limit being 22.

She was given a 16-month disqualification, reduced from 24 months due to the guilty plea, and placed on supervision for two years. But a Crown motion for forfeiture of the car was rejected.

JAILED FOR DRUG POSSESSION

A Hawick man found in possession of a class A drug has been given a four-month custodial sentence.

Terry Bradshaw, 37, of North Bridge Street, pleaded guilty to having £20 worth of heroin in Hawick’s Dovecote Street on January 3.

Defending, Mat Patrick told Jedburgh Sheriff Court: “He has a very long-standing issue with that particular drug dating back to when he was 15.”

The court heard he was already in custody in connection with another matter.

CONFRONTATION OVER COMPUTER

A bust-up over the use of a tablet computer resulted in a 47-year-old man threatening a teenage girl and struggling violently with his wife, Selkirk Sheriff Court has been told.

David Greenhill pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at a house in Galashiels on May 1.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said Greenhill and his wife had issues over alcohol abuse. He explained that the accused asked the girl if he could use the tablet, but she said she needed it as she was studying for exams.

Mr Fraser said Greenhill took it from her bag, but she demanded it back before a struggle developed between the pair, during which the teenager sustained bruising to her arms and legs. At one point the girl fell on the bed and Greenhill threatened to kill her, as well as shouting and swearing.

Greenhill’s wife tried to split them up, but ended up struggling violently with him.

The prosecutor said: “He was clearly intoxicated at this time and was found by the police lying in the bedroom.”

Defence lawyer Ross Dow said it had been a difficult time for his client since the offence as he had been living in Chirnside due to bail conditions. He said the former Rolls Royce engineer was bipolar and suffered a number of difficulties.

Sheriff Peter Paterson called for background reports and deferred sentence until September 12.

KELSO WOMAN FACES TRIAL

A 41-year-old woman will stand trial at Jedburgh Sheriff Court accused of being involved in a disturbance at a house in Hawick.

Andrea Lyons, of The Linn, Kelso, denies behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at the property in Cheviot Road on July 25. She is charged with repeatedly shouting, throwing a cup of hot liquid over fixtures and fittings, refusing to leave the premises when asked to do so, uttering offensive remarks, brandishing a pair of scissors and causing damage to a settee.

A trial date was set for November 1, with an intermediate hearing on October 3.

She was released on bail with special conditions not to enter Cheviot Road or contact two named people.

ARREST

REQUEST

A Kelso man turned up at his local police station and told officers he wanted to be arrested.

Mark Sharrard, 20, eventually got his wish after getting involved in a confrontation with officers, including seizing a female by the fingers and threatening to break them.

He pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to committing three offences at Kelso police station on May 28.

Sharrard, of Coalmarket, admitted shouting and swearing, and punching a window at the police station, attempting to butt an officer on the head and kicking him on the body, and assaulting a female police officer.

Sheriff Peter Paterson imposed a community payback order, with 18 months supervision. He also ordered Sharrard to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.

NEWCASTLETON ACCUSED

A Newcastleton man will go to trial on an alleged neighbour bust-up.

John Campbell, 53, of Whisgills, pleaded not guilty to conducting himself in a disorderly manner, shouting and swearing, using abusive language, cutting down hedging without the owner’s consent and brandishing a strimmer. He denies committing a breach of the peace at a house in the Whisgills area on July 18.

A trial date was fixed for November 1, with an intermediate hearing on October 3.

Campbell was bailed on condition he stays away from the house in Whisgills and not to contact two named people.

DRIVING BAN FOR TEENAGER

A Lauder teenager who fell out with his girlfriend ended up driving a car while more than three times the legal alcohol limit.

Eighteen-year-old Cuillin Melrose, of Maitland Road, pleaded guilty to driving on the A68 on April 10 with a breath/alcohol count of 79 microgrammes - the legal limit being 22. He also didn’t have any insurance or an appropriate licence.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said the administration assistant apprentice had been out earlier at Melrose Sevens when there had been a falling out with his girlfriend. He drove off in the family car, unsupervised and uninsured, as well as being over the drink-drive limit.

The teenager’s solicitor, Greg McDonnel, said his client reacted to a text conversation he was having with his girlfriend and “very stupidly” drove the car.

Melrose was fined £300 and disqualified from driving for 15 months.

KNIFEMAN IS LOCKED UP

A 23-year-old man who ran amok in Innerleithen with a knife was been remanded in custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court ahead of sentencing.

Dean O’Donnell admitted chasing members of the public with a knife and uttering threats of violence in Waverley Road, Innerleithen, on October 1 last year. He also admitted repeatedly lunging at two men with the knife and attempting to strike them, as well as assaulting a woman by pushing her to the ground to her injury. O’Donnell, of McNeil Terrace, Loanhead, also admitted possessing a knife.

Not guilty pleas to four other charges were accepted by the Crown.

Sentence was deferred until August 30 for background reports.

BONCHESTER

Quiz

On Saturday, August 27, there will be a quiz at the Horse and Hound at 7.30pm in aid of the over-60s club.

Parish church

The church was packed on Sunday for the baptism of Alfie William Warburton, son of Robert and Laura, of Clovenfords. The service was conducted by the Rev Elspeth Harley. Bible readings were delivered by Bill Birch and Adam Young. Hamish Tennant led a prayer for the child and family, and music was played by Andy Bird and Anne Grieve. Bible study resumed this week in Trinity Church office. Copies of the harvest newsletter are in the process of being distributed.

DENHOLM

Whist drive

A whist drive will be held in Denholm Village Hall on Monday, August 29, at 7.30pm. The event is in aid of Ruberslaw Church.

EARLSTON

Parish church

The wedding dress exhibition in the church on Saturday (August 27) will be open from 10am to 4pm, and the following day from noon-4pm. The service on Sunday (August 28) will be a Songs Of Praise at 10.15am and conducted by the Rev Julie Rennick. The kirk session meets in the church hall at 7.30pm on Monday (August 29). The church will have a stall at the Community Day on Sunday, September 4.

Women’s group

The opening meeting of the season is on Thursday, September 1, at 8pm in the church hall when The Bank House, Lauder, and Calico Interior Design will have a stall of various gifts for sale.

Wednesday club

Chairperson Kay Brownlie welcomed members to the first meeting of the new session. After the AGM, Kay presented Wilma Moffat with the quaich for most points in competitions 2015/2016. She then handed Agnes Penman a life membership award. Competition – perfume bottle – 1, Mrs C. Seaton; 2, Mrs L. Green; 3, Mrs A. Thompson. The next meeting is on August 31. Competition – a tea towel from abroad.

Thursday lunch club

Last Thursday members enjoyed a game of dominoes. After lunch, Sue Wilson played the piano – and it wasn’t long before feet were tapping and people singing.

ETTRICK

Fun cycle

To celebrate 30 years of the Macmillan Ettrick Valley Committee, there will be a family fun cycle and afternoon tea at the Boston Hall on Sunday, August 28, from 2-4pm. The cycle is about eight miles. For any other information, contact Marjory Tennant on 01750 62327.

ETTRICKBRIDGE

Coffee morning

The next coffee morning and sale in aid of village hall funds will take place on Saturday, September 3, from 10am-noon. Anyone with anything to sell should simply turn up, take a table and give a small donation. Around 11am, a presentation on behalf of the community will be made to Jean Beattie, local postperson for many years who retired recently.

GALASHIELS

Trinity Church

Sunday’s service was conducted by the Reverend Elspeth Harley. Music was led by Dorothy Howden and Gail Marshall read the Bible lessons. Advance notice was given of the gift day coffee morning on Saturday, September 3, with the gift day service and Holy Communion celebrated on Sunday, September 4.

St Peter’s Church

Last Sunday, Duncan McCosh returned to preach and lead the service. Today (Thursday) – 10am, holy communion; 11am, study group, followed by soup lunch. Sunday, August 28 – 9.30am, Sunday Squad, followed by juice and toast; 10.30am, sung eucharist and golden wedding renewal of vows, followed by coffee and chat. Thursday, September 1 – 10am, holy communion; 11am, study group. Messy Church and the Sunday Squad won the 2016 Gala Day fancy dress.

HAWICK

Rotary

At last week’s meeting, president Jim Walker welcomed members and past president Gus Neilson introduced the speaker, Lisa Bydon, volunteer co-ordinator of the Wilton Park project. In an illustrated talk, she described her role in the ongoing development. It has been funded over five years by a £3.5million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The bandstand has been refurbished and the new cafe, bridge and children’s play area will be in place in the near future. She explained the walled garden improvements and, with the help of the volunteers, the vegetable sections are in place, and produce is being harvested from it. The volunteers have contributed 3,073 hours at an estimated saving of £62,275. Lisa works in liaison with the events manager and various programmes have been held during the summer. After an excellent presentation which encoureaged many question, Gus Neilson gave the club’s vote of thanks.

INNERLEITHEN

Service

The service on Sunday, August 28, will be at 11.30am in Innerleithen Church.

Civic association

The next committee meeting of Innerleithen Civic Association will be held in the family room at St Ronan’s School at 7pm on Tuesday, August 30.

Games committee

The next two meetings of St Ronan’s Border Games committee will take place on Wednesday, August 31, and Wednesday, September 14. Both will be in the Burgh Chambers, Memorial Hall, Leithen Road at 7pm.

Flower show

Innerleithen Horticultural Society Open Show will take place on Sunday, September 4, in the Memorial Hall from 2pm. Entry is by silver collection. The hall will be open on Saturday, September 3, from 6.30-8.00pm and on show day (7-10am) for entries. The society is highlighting the new exhibitors’ section. Music will be provided during the afternoon by St Ronan’s Silver Band.

Community council

The next meeting of Innerleithen and District Community Council will take place on Monday, September 5, at 7.15pm in the council chamber, Memorial Hall,Leithen Road .

Jumble collection

St Ronan’s School is having a collection of unwanted clothing, shoes, soft toys and bedding. Items can be handed into the school in bin bags. This is then transferred into cash for the parent-teacher association which pays for many of the “extras” that enhance the experience of pupils at St Ronan’s. Jumble can be handed into the school anytime on or before next Wednesday, September 7.

Family 5k run

St Ronan’s Border Games annual family 5k fun run will take place on Saturday, September 17, on the Tweed Valley Railway Path, commencing 2pm. There willbe cash prizes for winners and medals for all participants. This will be a sponsored event with all funds raised going towards the organisation of Games Week 2017. Sponsor forms are available from the Thrift Shop or St Ronan’s School – ring 01896 490510 for more information.

Guys and Dolls

Innerleithen and District Amateur Operatic Society will present “Guys and Dolls” from March 27-April 1 next year. The first rehearsal is on Wednesday, September 21, in the Free Library Hall, Buccleuch Street, at 7.30pm. New and returning members are invited to attend. The first rehearsal will be an informal sing through the show, followed by a social evening. Ring 01896 830577 or email secretary@idaos.org.uk for more information.

Concert

St Ronan’s Band will present a concert featuring the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland in the Memorial Hall on Saturday, September 24, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8 (£7 concession) and are on sale from KJBelleville@aol.com, Thrift Shop, Adam’s Bakery or Robb’s KeyStore (Peebles).

JEDBURGH

Rotary

Volunteers from the club, together with other local Rotarians, assisted at the Border Union Show to offer safety wristbands to younger children. The wristbands had parental mobile phone numbers written on them by accompanying parents and the children advised to seek help from an official or helper in the event of any of them becoming lost. The planters provided by the club in Jedburgh High Street have helped to make Jedburgh even more attractive and many of the hanging baskets have been sponsored by individual members. The pop-up shop run by the “Rotary Ladies” in Canongate continues to do well, all sales helping the charity funds for distribution to local causes. The club also organised its annual trip for senior citizens to Eyemouth on August 6. On Thursday, August 4, the governor of south of Scotland district 1020, Olive Geddes, visited the club with her husband, Ian. She was able to sit in on committee planning discussions and update the club on current developments within the Rotary movement. Olive was welcomed by President Tony Rae. On August 16, a number of members from the club travelled to Edinburgh for an evening at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Bazaar

Old and Trinity Parish Church’s annual bazaar is in the town hall on Monday, August 29, with all the usual stalls, but in the form of an afternoon tea event, beginning at 1pm through to 4pm.

Bridge club

August 15 – N/S – 1, M. Weightman and H. Long; 2, V. Johnstone and M, Miller; 3, D. and P. Palmer; E/W – 1, R. Oates and S. West; 2, J. Bridger and G. Eglinton; 3, S. Mclachan and J. Portch.

KELSO

Exhibition

Sunday, August 28, sees Kelso Horticultural Society’s annual summer exhibition – including f lowers, pot plants, vegetables, fruit, floral art, photography, industrial and junior sections – in the Tait Hall. Doors open at 1pm, with the presentation of prizes at 4pm.

Market

Kelso farmers’ market will be held on Saturday, August 27, in The Square from 9.30am-1.30pm.

Bridge club

August 17 – match-pointed pairs – N/S – 1, Joyce Thomson & Helenor Pratt; 2, Dominic & Diana Alkin; 3, Jean McLaren & Alison Ireland; E/W – 1, Annie Mitchell & Bob Stevenson; 2, Lynda Douglas & Lesley Dick; 3, Gerry Eglington & Jon Bridger. August 18 – aggregate pairs – N/S – 1, John Urquhart & Miles Browne; 2, Bob Stevenson & Lee Leeson; 3, Jean & Quentin McLaren; E/W – 1, Eilean Hogarth & Myra Thomson; 2, Shirley Armstrong & Moira Ayton; 3, Brian Saywood & Sheila Urquhart.

LANGHOLM

Armstrongs

Members of clan Armstrong recently met up in the town. They travelled from such places as United States, South Africa and Australia to join the gathering in the Eskdale Hotel. MSP Oliver Mundell attended the event and met up with clan chairman Fiona Armstrong and president Micheil Armstrong. Mr Mundell spoke about the vvisitors from abroad and said he was keen to promote clan tourism for Eskdale, and highlight what the area has to offer for visitors, not only in this country, but across the globe.

Playcare

The local Playcare Ltd is inviting members of the public to attend an open evening and the AGM on Tuesday, August 30. The meeting will take place in the community centre, starting at 6.30pm and gives parents the opportunity to meet the team and see the play room. There will be a demonstration and discussion in regard to the benefit of iConnect and ParentZone, and how parents can use it to their full potential.

Information

The information hub which opened just a few weeks ago is proving to be a great success, with many visitors using it. Although the hub has only moved a short distance from the old venue, it catches the eye when entering the Market Place from the south, and one can read the distinctive sign on the front saying “Welcome to Langholm”. There are numerous displays inside commemorating the town’s history.

LAUDER

Church

Worship this weekend will be celebrated on Sunday, August 28, at Channelkirk (10am), Lauder (11.30am) and South Gardens (2.30pm). Services will be led by the Reverend Rae Clark. The following Sunday, September 4, a Summer Evening Songs of Praise will be held at Channelkirk Church commencing at 6.30pm.

Quiz

An over-60s quiz will be held in Lauderdale Hotel on September 9, 7 for 7.30pm start – £12 entry for teams of four can be pre-booked in Millers Fruit Shop or on the night.

LINDEAN

SWI

The first meeting of the new session is on September 1 when there will be a speaker from the Stable Life charity. Competitions – four rock buns and a horse shoe (any craft).

MELROSE

Ex-Gladiator

Warren Furman, better known as Ace, one of the stars of the 1990s TV show Gladiators, will be appearing at the Corn Exchange on September 5, at 7.30pm. Warren, who became a Christian after leaving the show, will be interviewed by Roger Simpson, the Archbishop of York’s evangelist for the Northern Province. The event is being organised by The Filling Station.

Blood donors

At a blood-donor session held in the town on Tuesday, August 16, a total of 100 volunteers offered to give blood and 80 donations were given. Two new donors attended the session.

Flower show

Melrose Flower Show will take place in Melrose Parish Church hall, Weirhill, on Saturday, September 5, with classes for flowers, fruit and vegetables, floral art, baking and craftwork. There will also be a children’s section. Schedules are available in Melrose library and local shops. Enquiries to Alison (07766 811703), Carolyn (01835 823994) or email bowercarolyn@yahoo.co.uk.

Bookshop

The annual Melrose and District Community Council Bookshop event will be held in the Ormiston Institute on Friday and Saturday (September 2/3) from 10am till 4pm each day in aid of local projects.

Parish church

The church fete at Bowden raised £1,322; Sunday, August 28 – services at Bowden (9.30am) and Melrose (family, 10am; morning worship, 11am); church magazine available for distribution; Saturday, September 24 – golf day (823339).

Trimontium

It is hoped to try out the return journey of the walk to Melrose now that repairs have been made to the route down the Eddy Road and along the river bank. A group of Japanese visitors were expected this week and next week, a north of England walking club. An American went round the display the other day before confessing that he was an archaeologist. Trust chairman John Reid has gone to Burnswark, near Ecclefechan, for the second part of his excavation of this hill, which has a Roman camp on the north and south sides. The BBC has issued cameras to various excavations (including Burnswark) for a daily diary to be kept and the results to be shown in a series of BBC4 programmes in November. This weekend sees the season’s final Newstead Milestone Sunday short site walk(2pm).

MOREBATTLE

Coffee morning

A coffee morning in aid of diabetics held last Saturday raised about £800. Competition winners – teddy bear, Eileen Todd; grocery box, Linda Henderson; fruit basket, Matilda Hall; bottle of whisky, Kenny Oliver.

Disco and raffle

A disco and raffle will be held in the Templehall on Saturday, August 27, at 8pm in aid of Breast Cancer/BGH Macmillan Centre. Raffle tickets will be on sale in the village shop and butchers. Raffle prizes gratefully received.

Fete

A Cheviot Churches fete will be held at Mainhouse on Sunday, September 4, from 11am to 4pm – worship at 11am, with barbecue and teas to follow, cake and bottle stalls, bric-a-brac etc. There will be a retirement presentation to the Reverend Robin McHaffie at 3pm.

NEWTOWN

SWI

At the last meeting before the summer break, members welcomed Joyce Luby who demonstrated fabric card making. Competition – miniature clock – 1, Lorna Dickson; 2, Margaret Luke; 3, Joan McCulloch. On August 10, four members enjoyed a quiz night hosted by Bowden SWI. The next meeting of Newtown SWI will be on Thursday, September 1, in the Community Wing at 7pm. New members welcome. The guest that evening will be John Henderson from Born in the Borders.

OXNAM

Library cafe

The next library cafe is on Wednesday, August 31, from 11am-noon in the hall.

PEEBLES

All write for open mic

Fans of the written word can enjoy a special free event in Peebles this weekend. Borders Writers’ Forum (BWF) is holding an open mic on Saturday (August 27) when writers – from age eight to adult – are being given the chance to showcase their work. They will be able to read a five-minute excerpt from published or unpublished material. The session runs from 1.30-4.30pm in the Museum Room at Chambers Institution and takes place during Peebles Arts Festival. Members of the public are welcome to attend the event, which will also offer book sales and have food and drink available. Writers wishing to book a slot should call 01896 850706 or 07923 129928, or email hayleyemberey@gmail.com. The open mic event is a prelude to the new BWF season of monthly talks and workshops. These will be held at the group’s new base, St Boswells Village Hall. The first session – on Thursday, September 15 (7.30pm) – features award-winning author Jonathan Falla who teaches arts for the Open University and is director of the Creative Writing Summer School at St Andrews University.

SELKIRK

Wellbeing fun day

The cricket club will – on Sunday, September 4 – host a wellbeing family fun day. As well as a variety of stalls, other attractions include an adults v children cricket match, raffle, face-painting and barbecue. There will also be information about a new wellbeing centre and bistro opening in Melrose, and treatments and alternate therapies available. The September 4 event is also a fundraiser for the centre and cricket club. It is also hoped to get a day club going for the elderly, with pool, cards and dominoes.

Riverside ramble

The Selkirk local committee of Cancer Research UK has organised ‘A Riverside Ramble’ which will take place on Sunday, October 2. It will see participants walking from Melrose to Selkirk rugby clubs along the rivers Tweed and Ettrick, a distance of approximately eight miles on a flat route. More information is available by contacting crukselkirk@gmail.com. The committee’s annual 20-mile sponsored walk via Yarrow, Traquair and Selkirk took place in April. This event, which started in 1989, has raised well over £140,000 for the charity to date. This year, a total of £7,099 was realised by the 80 walkers who took to the hills for this cause.

ST BOSWELLS

Writers’ forum

Borders Writers’ Forum’s new season of monthly talks and workshops will be held at the group’s new base, St Boswells Village Hall. The first session – to be held on Thursday, September 15 (7.30pm) – features award-winning author Jonathan Falla who teaches arts for the Open University and is director of the Creative Writing Summer School at St Andrews University.

TRAQUAIR

Presentation

Chris Bowles, Scottish Borders Council archaeologist, will give a presentation at 7pm today (Thursday) in Traquair Kirk on the history and archaeology of the Tweed Valley. All welcome. The event is being held as part of the celebrations of 900 years of recorded worship at Traquair. For more details, call 01896 833994.

Service

There will be a service at 10am in Traquair Kirk on Sunday, August 28.

WALKERBURN

Service

The next service in Walkerburn Public Hall is on Sunday, September 18, at 10am.

YETHOLM

Comedy night

Bowmont Theatre presents ‘An Evening of Comedy’ on Friday (August 26) and Saturday (August 27) at 7.30pm in the Wauchope Hall. Tickets (£5, including refreshments) are available from the village shop or at the door on the night.

Show catalogues

Shepherds’ show catalogues are available from the village shop and online. The closing date for entries is Friday, September 16. The show committee will meet today (Thursday) at 7.30pm in the Youth Hall.

Council

Community councillors will next meet at 7pm in the Youth Hall on Tuesday, August 30.

Quiz

A quiz night in aid of the pavilion will take place in the Border Hotel at 7.30pm on Wednesday, August 31.

The Outside Track

The Outside Track will perform live in the Wauchope Hall on Friday, September 9, at 7.30pm. Tickets for the event are on sale at the village shop, or by contacting Susan Stewart on 420231. The Outside Track’s marriage of Celtic music, song and dance has been rapturously received around the world. Hailing from Scotland, Ireland and Cape Breton, the musicians blend fiddle, accordion, harp, guitar, whistle, step-dance and vocals.

Garden fete

Cheviot Churches will hold a garden fete at Mainhouse, Morebattle, on Sunday, September 4 – church service at 11am, followed by barbecue, games and stalls. There will be presentation to the Reverend Robin McHaffie at 3pm on his retirement.

A 28-year-old man has appeared in private at Jedburgh Sheriff Court accused of motoring offences.

Stuart McCutcheon from Galashiels is charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and with no insurance.

He made no plea or declaration and the case was continued for further examination.

Sheriff Peter Paterson refused a motion for bail and remanded McCutcheon in custody.

A Hawick man has admitted a charge of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner.

Christopher Rodger, 20, of Burns Road, pleaded guilty to shouting, acting in an aggressive manner, punching the pavement in Chay Blyth Place, Hawick, and threatening to self-harm.

The offence happened between May 6 and 7.

He was given a community pay back order involving 15 months’ supervision.

A Peebles woman claimed she was attacked with a knife and suffered severe injury after confronting a woman about a debt, a trial at Selkirk Sheriff Court has been told.

Kendra Morris said she visited 24-year-old Zoe Owen at her home in Eastgate, Peebles, on April 19 in an attempt to get the money she says she was owed repaid.

However, she claimed Owen refused and then as she left the flat, brandished a knife, struggled with her, attempted to strike her on the neck with the weapon and then struck her on her hand with the knife to her severe injury.

Owen – now living at Restalrig Road, Edinburgh - has denied the charge.

The trial has been adjourned to allow more evidence to be heard on Thursday, September 1.

Background reports have been ordered into an Earlston woman who refused to give samples of breath when suspected of drinking and driving.

Julie Taylor, 49, pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to a charge of failing to co-operate with a preliminary breath test at her Haughhead home last Wednesday.

She also admitted failing to provide two samples of breath at Galashiels Police Station.

Sheriff Peter Paterson deferred sentence until September 20 for a Criminal Justice Social Work Report to be prepared.

He also imposed an interim driving ban.

A Hawick solicitors has taken the phrase family firm to the next level ... as the sixth generation of the Oliver family has joined Geo and Jas Oliver WS, Hawick, Solicitors and Estate Agents.

Before joining the firm – which was established in 1824 – Henry Oliver studied Law at the University of Aberdeen before undertaking a two-year traineeship with Stronach’s LLp, one of Scotland’s foremost independent law firms.

He gained extensive training in the areas of residential property, private clients, dispute resolution and agricultural law.

Henry, who will be based at 13 High Street, Hawick, said: “I am excited to be joining the family business and look forward to providing a first-class personal, friendly and efficient service to the firms clients, old and new.”

His father John, who is also director of the company, said: “I am delighted to have Henry joining the firm as sixth generation and continuing to serve our well established and loyal client base.

“He is eager to drive the business forward. I joined the firm in 1974 and the challenges ahead for Henry will be very different from the ones I have encountered.”

Henry said he welcomes any clients, old or new, requiring legal or estate agency services.