It must have been five below freezing last week, when I set out on my daily dog walk along my usual riverside route.

Although it was overcast, the frost still clung to every fragment of vegetation and the ground was brick hard. Icicles hung in curtains at the hydro-electric generating station, formed by the constant splashing from the spinning turbines.

Further upstream, fieldfares chattered angrily at my approach before taking off in a noisy flock. It is so difficult to get anywhere near these nervous birds.

Just below the pool where Ettrick and Yarrow meet, I heard the unmistakable melodious song of a dipper.

I stopped and quickly located it sitting on a stone in midstream, head back, singing his heart out.

Dippers are unusual in that they have feathered eyelids which happen to be white and I couldn’t help noticing that he seemed to be blinking more than usual, which is part of the courting ritual.

As I watched, I caught a glimpse of movement on the far bank and saw that another dipper was edging closer to the songster. I took it to be a female as no aggression ensued.

Slowly she made her way closer to the vocalist, who by this time had his head right back and giving it his all.

Eventually she stopped on the stone in front of him and began to rhythmically bob, seemingly in time to his music.

This went on for some minutes, giving me time for a couple of quick snaps, before the pair finally took off together and flew off downstream.

I reckon he had pulled! Dippers will be on their breeding territories by January so they are all busy pairing off at the moment. My stretch of river is excellent dipper habitat and I heard a further three singing males further downstream on my return trip.

I also encountered a little grebe diving just above the cauld, which is an unusual visitor for this stretch of water. The pond where it usually resides was probably frozen over, so it probably decided to head for the open water of the river.

Winter seems to have arrived early this year, but the extremely cold weather will do a lot of good in getting the natural cycle of things onto a proper footing, after several years of unseasonably mild winters.

The Citroen C2 Ecosse Challenge Awards were held at Aitken-Walker’s Cars in Duns, with a large turnout coming from all over Scotland for the end of year award ceremony.

The awards were presented by Scottish Rally Championship runner-up Garry Pearson.

The Challenge is held over five rounds and this year went down to the final event, the Galloway Hills Rally in Castle Douglas. It was Berwick and District Motor Club members David Martin from Belford leading the way, and Gina Walker from Duns in second place.

At the end of the event David finished second in class and was crowned champion, with Gina dropping to third in the championship, after a mechanical problem caused her to retire.

Experienced Astra driver David swapped his Astra for a C2 this season, leading the Championship from the very first event. David took first Overall Driver, the Barlow Quaich and won the Safety Devices Trophy for Spirit of the Championship. David would like to thank his co-drivers Claire Mole, Neil Ewing and Douglas Humphrey as well as his service crew.

The only lady driver in the Challenge, Gina won the RSAC Salver for being first Junior Driver and took third overall in a car hired from challenge co-ordinator Andrew Pemberton for her first season in rallying.

Gina has experienced the highs and lows of rallying during the season and her times got quicker throughout. She was awarded the RSAC Scholarship for 2016 and found it very important in allowing her to complete the season with its help. Gina was helped through the season with Edwin Cook and Richard Simmonds on the notes, Jack and Victor Motorsport on the tools and encouraged by mum Louise Aitken-Walker and Mandy Wood.

Gina would also like to thank David Martin for his help during the season. Next year will see Gina returning to the Challenge in David’s championship winning car.

Former Scottish rally champion Euan Thorburn was back in action at the weekend after a few months out of the driver’s seat.

The Duns driver finished a superb third overall at the wheel of an M-Sport Ford Fiesta R5 in Saturday’s Grizedale Stages where, once again he was partnered by co-driver Paul Beaton from Inverness.

Euan said: “We had a good day, it was nice to get to the end of a rally trouble free and we were happy enough to finish third in some tricky conditions. Can’t wait for 2017 now!”

The Duns driver has sold the Peugeot 208 T16 R5 that he used on selected events in 2016 and could switch to an M-Sport machine for 2017.

Euan explained: “The car we used on the Grizedale is the car Higgins used on the Isle of Man through the preparation firm Autotek. We hired it with a view to maybe getting it for next year but nothing is paid for yet.”

Euan has made no decision about committing to a championship for 2017 and has a number of options to consider.

He added: “We are aiming do the Mid Wales Stages which is the first round of the British Rally Championship. We did Ypres, which is a round of the 2017 BRC, a few years ago and I really enjoyed that so I would like to go back there but we are not committing to any championships.

“We will probably do The Snowman and the Cambrian as a warm up and then take it from there.”

Saturday’s Grizedale Stages was won by Durham’s Stephen Petch and Michael Wilkinson in a Ford Fiesta.

Hawick’s Ian Baumgart, co-driven by Mike Dickson from Gala, finished 11th overall in their Subaru Impreza.

Legislation which will give the Scottish Parliament further powers over income tax will be laid today (Wednesday).

The regulations will mean from 2017/18 the Scottish Parliament will be able to set the rates and bands thresholds for income tax, excluding personal allowance.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said: “We welcome these legislative steps which will increase the Scottish Parliament’s powers over income tax from next year. The new powers will allow us to design an approach to taxation which will suit Scotland’s needs, balancing the need to invest with the recognition that many households are facing difficult economic challenges.

“As we set out earlier this year, our income tax proposals for 2017/18 will aim to protect lower income taxpayers and generate extra revenue for us to invest in public services.

“We will set out further details of our proposals for income tax in next month’s Draft Budget.”

As Scots across the world celebrate St Andrew’s Day, we’re giving you the chance to show how much you know about your country.

Tackle these 10 questions and then challenge your friends and family to do better!

The most popular names for your little bundles of joy have been announced for another year - but is your chosen name on the list?

Today, the top 100 UK baby names of 2016 were released - and it seems parents are taking inspiration from superheroes, outer space and mother nature.

According to the research, carried out by a global parenting website, there has been a rise in superhero names, inspired by DC and Marvel Comics’ continued success at the box office.

The release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens at the end of last year also has a lot to answer for.

Harley (Suicide Squad), Kara (Supergirl) and Kylo (The Force Awakens) have all seen a spike in popularity.

2016 has also been a year for celebrity and nature influences - with Harper (name of the Beckhams’ daughter), Kai (c/o the Rooneys’) and Daisy remaining popular.

The top 10 names for boys and girls have been revealed by BabyCentre, following its research into the UK’s top 100 baby names of 2016.

And according to the site, tradition is winning over trend with many traditional names remaining near the top of the chart.

Has your child’s name made the list?

The girls

1. Olivia

2. Lily

3. Sophia

4. Emily

5. Amelia

6. Ava

7. Isla

8. Isabella

9. Isabelle

10. Sophie

The boys

1. Oliver

2. Muhammed

3. Noah

4. Harry

5. Jack

6. Charlie

7. Jacob

8. George

9. Ethan

10. Henry

You can view the Top 100 Boys names HERE and the Top 100 Girls names HERE

With a total prize fund of £106,000, Kelso racecourse holds its richest meeting of the season this coming Sunday.

Featured races include the prestigious Persimmon Homes Scottish Borders National.

Gates open at 10.20am, with the first race off two hours later.

Gary Strathdee sponsors the opening Black Swan Kelso novices’ hurdle race – won 12 months ago by Nick Alexander with Road To Gold (right).

The Kinneston trainer is represented by newcomer Dance Of Fire.

Venetia Williams’ horses have started to hit form and she has pencilled in recent Hexham third Willie Boy.

John Wade is sponsoring the Paris Pike novices’ chase, run in memory of Ivan Straker’s 1999 Kelso winner and 2000 Scottish National victor.

Sandy Thomson’s top-class chaser Seeyouatmidnight landed this in great style last year and the Greenlaw handler bids to win it again with The Dutchman, who won on his debut over fences at Wetherby. Paul Nicholls-trained Arpeggios D’alene, co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, impressed at Aintree last time.

Jedburgh businessman Iain Livingstone, a new sponsor, backs the mares’ novices’ hurdle race in celebration of his 60th birthday. Michael Scudamore could have a rare Kelso runner in recent Lingfield hurdles debut winner Grace Tara.

Also on the card is the two-mile handicap hurdle, which is a challenger qualifier for the Haydock finals. The Character, trained by Donald McCain, is on a hat-trick, following back-to-back wins this autumn at Musselburgh and Bangor.

Dianne Sayer is double-handed with Cool Baranca and Endeavor, who are both course and distance winners.

The four-mile feature Border National race, sponsored by Duncan Davidson, offers an impressive prize fund of £40,000.

An entry of 22 includes includes 2013 scorer Royale Knight. Trained by Dr Richard Newland, he is a dual Durham National victor and has been placed in both Scottish and Highland versions.

Harriet Graham’s Jedburgh raider Scotswell is holding his form well and this tenacious frontrunner was runner-up in the 2013 and 2014 Border Nationals.

Sandy Thomson has won the Kelso marathon for the last two years with Neptune Equester and he has aimed Harry The Viking at this year’s renewal.

The Greenlaw trainer has booked Selkirk jockey Rachael McDonald.

The Scotty Brand Veterans handicap chase, sponsored by Ronnie Bartlett, is the final qualifier of the series. Desert Cry, co-owned by Sunderland FC manager David Moyes, was a cracking second at Haydock recently.

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls has a few entries on the card and they include Aerial, who fell three out when travelling strongly in the Perth Gold Cup.

Norrie Kristoffersen, of Kristoffersen Carpets and Flooring, sponsored last year for the first time and returns to support the concluding novices’ handicap hurdle race.

Lucinda Russell has entered Pulpitarian and Rivabodiva, who were second and third respectively on their most recent outings. Teri trainer Iain Jardine will be hoping this longer trip will help his mare Daytripper lose her maiden tag.

Sunday also sees the return of the popular family-themed day, with festive activities.

The next meeting will be The Festive Fling on Thursday, December 29. Gates will open at 10am, with the first race off at noon.

Top international sides are set to take part in the Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens on April 8 next year.

They include teams from Western Provence (RSA), Sweden, Co-optimists and Harlequins.

Melrose RFC has also confirmed the continued sponsorship from Aberdeen Asset Management as main sponsor for the 2017 event.

Scottish clubs appearing, along with the hosts, will include Gala, Hawick, Jed-Forest, Kelso, Peebles, Selkirk, Ayr, Boroughmuir, Currie, Heriot’s, Watsonians, GHA, Falkirk, Dundee Rugby, Glasgow Hawks, Marr, Edinburgh Accies, Stewart’s Melville and Stirling County.

Trevor Jackson, president of Melrose RFC, said: “I am delighted to announce that Melrose Sevens 2017 is to be sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management, and we are immensely grateful for the continued support of Martin Gilbert and his team.

“With the World Rugby series increasing in popularity each year, and the excitement of the British Silver Medal success in the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Rugby Sevens is now a global phenomenon.

“Since its inception in Melrose in 1883, the seven-a-side game has reached corners of the globe that have never before embraced rugby.

“In the spirit of the original Sevens, but also to honour its legacy, this year Melrose announced its ambitious 1883 Legacy Project for a community development at The Greenyards, to provide a fitting space for Sevens heritage as well as activity areas for the whole community. The event will be a 24-team tournament and we look forward to welcoming Harlequins, Co-optimists, the national side from Sweden, and Western Province (RSA) as our guest teams for 2017.”

Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens convener, Ian Cooper, was delighted with the sides the event has attracted this year. 

“The 2017 tournament looks to be an exciting programme of sevens rugby,” he said. “With a good geographic mix, we feel it is going to be a very open tournament, with any of the competing teams in with a chance of winning. 

“A national team from Sweden continues the club’s policy of widening our sevens participation experience even further. With Rugby Sevens having been included for the first time as an extremely successful Olympic event in 2016, the profile of the game has never been higher.

“Add to that the Scotland Seven’s success at the Twickenham Sevens and you have a game which has well and truly made its mark on the global sporting stage. In addition, with this being Scotland’s Year of history heritage and archaeology, there will be an increased number of visitors in the area taking advantage of what the region has to offer.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, commented: “Aberdeen is delighted to be supporting the Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens for a sixth successive year. Going on last year’s thrilling finish, we expect the 2017 instalment of the tournament to be as exciting as ever, with an array of local and international talent on show for the thousands of rugby fans in attendance, along with those watching live on BBC Scotland.

“The event has a magical feeling to it and we are proud to be associated with its history and prestige, along with the growing popularity of rugby sevens around the world.”

Scottish Rugby president Rob Flockhart added: “The profile of sevens has never been higher and Melrose - where I have happy memories of representing Boroughmuir in the tournament in the 1970s – continue to play their part in extending its appeal through the quality and imagination of the guest sides invited to the Greenyards.

“One of the unquestionable highlights of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games was the return of rugby union to the Olympic family and the sheer joy which surrounded Fiji’s first ever Olympic medal. The fact it was won in rugby sevens was so fitting.

“In Scotland, we are rightly proud that an idea which was conceived and first saw the light of day in Melrose has gained such global popularity. 

“And how proud the Melrose club must be, too, to see three of their own – Calum MacRae, Scott Wight and Mark Robertson – in the vanguard of sevens success in the last year, MacRae as coach, Wight as captain and Robertson as player, as Scotland won a World Series tournament for the first time. Then Mark Robertson being selected as part of the GB team that won a silver medal in Rio.

“With Scott Wight offering his special insight into the abbreviated game to Rwanda as they attempt to bolster their chances of qualification for both Commonwealth and Olympic Games, Melrose’s influence over Ned Haig’s legacy is as strong as ever.”

Cllr David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Councill said: “The Melrose 7s is an iconic, worldwide rugby event that showcases the best of 7s rugby each year. Scottish Borders Council is delighted to play a small part in supporting the event and are delighted that the 2017 event is shaping up to be another very special occasion.”

The Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens will be supervised by a team of seven top Scottish referees, supported by 12 referees’ assistants and in-goal area judges, to be appointed by the Borders Referees Society Appointments Panel from qualified referees from within the Borders area.

Melrose RFC will again host its popular Junior Coaching Clinic, now in its 34th year, on the morning of the Sevens.

The clinic is set to attract in excess of 100 youngsters under the age of 14 from clubs and schools throughout Scotland, who will be put through their paces by some of Scotland’s top coaches under the direction of Rob Moffat and sponsored by Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools.

Corporate hospitality will again be available at the Greenyards on Sevens day and will be organised by Douglas Hardie.

Meanwhile, Fiona Harvey, external affairs head of the tournament’s charity partner, Myeloma UK, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as Melrose Sevens charity partner for 2017. Myeloma is a rare and incurable form of bone marrow cancer and so it’s hugely important to develop a greater understanding of it and how it affects people. It really is a privilege to be part of such a huge sporting event that will help us to raise awareness and

show support for the tens of thousands of patients, family and friends currently living with myeloma in the UK.”

The draw for the tournament will be made in the clubrooms at the Greenyards on a date to be confirmed. Members of the public wishing to attend will be made welcome.

Details will be posted on the website, social media and weekly newsletter when the date is available.

Tickets are available via www.melrose7s.com or direct from the club – concessions and family tickets are also now available.

A pensioner has been banned from keeping pets for five years over what a Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals inspector described as one of the worst cases of neglect she’d ever seen.

James McLelland, 67, of Deanhead Drive, Eyemouth, allowed his dog Trixie to become covered in fleas, skin conditions, sores and suffer a loss of hair.

The SSPCA was tipped off after someone noticed Trixie was constantly scratching.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser, pictured above, told Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday that the dog “looked malnourished and got no exercise”.

He said a substantial quantity of fleas was found on all areas of the dog’s body, with hard boils and open wounds on his back and legs.

Mr Fraser said McLelland initially refused to relinquish ownership, but the animal was seized by welfare officers.

He added: “It was quite clear that unnecessary suffering had been caused to the dog as a result of this.”

The offence happened over a six-month period between February and August, and in September McLelland signed over the dog and admitted he had never taken it to a vet.

Mr Fraser added: “The inspector considers this as one of the worst cases she has seen, yet there were simple measures which would have prevented this, such as a clean living environment and proper veterinary care.

McLelland pleaded guilty to being responsible for a dog and causing it unnecessary suffering due to inadequate care.

Defence lawyer Ross Dow said: “He did try to treat the dog with creams and sprays he bought in a local pet shop, but they did not work.

“He is sorry about this and he is not going to be taking up any animals in the future.”

Sheriff Peter Paterson also fined McLelland £300.

DRUG-DRIVER LOCKED UP

A 52-year-old man has been jailed for 30 days after admitting driving a van while under the influence of drugs.

Cedric Dove, of Station House, Greenlaw, pleaded guilty to committing that offence in Marigold Bank, Galashiels, last October.

Selkirk Sheriff Court heard that no alcohol was found in his system, but a half-empty packet of dihydrocodeine was discovered in the vehicle.

Dove told police he took the drug to treat leg pain.

In addition to the jail sentence, Dove was banned from the road for 18 months.

CARER NEARLY FOUR TIMES LIMIT

A carer who drove from his home in Cornhill to Coldstream to pick up medication was almost four times the legal alcohol limit, Jedburgh Sheriff Court was told.

Hylton Burdon, 62, pleaded guilty to driving a van with a breath-alcohol count of 87 microgrammes, the legal limit being 22, in Coldstream High Street on October 24.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said the accused came to the attention of police at 9pm because one of his headlights was not working.

Ed Hulme, defending, said: “He has a friend who has terminal cancer. He had been drinking earlier in the day but ran out of medication. He drove the short distance to Coldstream to get medication from the Co-op when he came to the attention of the police.”

Burdon was fined £200 and banned from the road for 14 months.

NEIGHBOUR ADMITS STALKING

A stalker has been ordered to be of good behaviour for 12 months.

Paul Taylor, 52, of Castle Street, Duns, pleaded guilty to a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour involving a former neighbour he had befriended.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court heard that he had known the woman for about four years, but from April 2015 he showed signs of becoming more obsessive and controlling, and was sending abusive text messages.

He also became jealous if other neighbours visited her home and would go into her flat without invitation.

After being told the woman had since moved away, Sheriff Peter Paterson deferred sentence for a year.

HAMMER ATTACK CHARGE DENIED

A Berwickshire man will face trial by jury at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on five charges.

Geoffrey Burge, 56, of Upper Burnmouth, is accused of assaulting a man and a woman with a knife, as well as striking the woman in the face with a hammer.

He is also alleged to have been in possession of a bladed article and a hammer.

Burge pleaded not guilty to all charges, and a trial date was set for February 27, with an intermediate hearing on February 6.

WOMEN

DENY ASSAULTS

Two women appeared from custody at Jedburgh Sheriff Court accused of domestic assaults on men last weekend.

Rebecca Skene, 25, is accused of threatening or abusive behaviour at her home in Hall Street, Walkerburn, on Saturday and struggling with partner Mark Smith.

She also faces charges of possession of a knife and a craft knife, and shouting and swearing and repeatedly banging her head inside a police vehicle.

After pleading not guilty, Skene had a trial date fixed for February 16 at Selkirk Sheriff Court, with an intermediate hearing on January 16.

She was released on bail with the condition that she does not contact Mark Smith or enter Morebattle.

Ashley Gallagher, 27, also denied assaulting her former partner Derek Graham by striking him twice in the face at her home in Queens Drive, Hawick.

Trial was set for February 9 at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, with an intermediate hearing on January 9.

DECORATOR STOLE JEWELLERY

A painter and decorator has admitted stealing £900 worth of jewellery while working in a house at Tofts in Kelso.

Terry West, of Mansefield Court, Kelso, pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to committing the offence on May 21.

The court was told that the jewellery, owned by an elderly woman, was recovered, but £20 in cash went missing.

Lawyer Ross Dow said his client had suffered shame and embarrassment because of the offence.

He said the 68-year-old had lost his job as a result of it.

Mr Dow said the offence came about because of the accused’s gambling addiction.

A 15-month community payback order with supervision was imposed.

Sheriff Peter Paterson also ordered West to pay £300 compensation to the house owner to “reflect the upset and trauma” she experienced.

RACE-DAY DRIVER FIVE TIMES LIMIT

A plumber who drove home from a day out at Kelso Races while almost five times the legal alcohol limit has been banned from the road for 15 months at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Mark Young, 28, crashed his vehicle into a road sign at the A698 roundabout at the town’s Sainsbury’s store shortly after 10pm on Saturday, October 22.

Police officers attended, and it became apparent that Young, of Minto Place, Hawick, had been drinking.

He admitted driving with a breath-alcohol count of 105 microgrammes, the legal limit being 22.

His solicitor, Ed Hulme, said: “He had been at the Kelso Races meeting with a friend and stupidly decided to drive home.”

In addition to the disqualification, Young was fined £350.

MAN ATTACKED IN OWN HOME

A Selkirk man who confronted three men who had been targeting a neighbour’s home ended up being assaulted in his own house in front of an 11-year-old boy.

Karl Brown, 39, admitted threatening or abusive behaviour, challenging others to fight and being in possession of metal poles during the incident in Bridge Street and Bannerfield Drive, both in Selkirk, on July 24.

He was ordered to carry out 70 hours’ unpaid work for the offence and another 70 hours for producing cannabis at his home in Buccleuch Road, Selkirk.

Prosecuting at the town’s sheriff court, Graham Fraser said the accused came to the Borders four years ago, having had an extensive criminal record in the south of England.

He explained: “He was at home on Sunday, July 24, and was aware of three people causing a disturbance in the street. He remonstrated with them and they ended up assaulting him in his house.

“A witness made a 999 call to say a male was making threats with poles from a bicycle seat.”

Mr Fraser said Brown kept shouting the name of a man who was well known to the courts.

When interviewed by police, Brown said: “I am not nice when I get angry. People get scared of me.”

Lawyer Mat Patrick said his client got involved when the three men threw a moped against his wall and started kicking it.

He added: “He found out they had a grievance against his upstairs neighbour. He challenged them, and one of them came through the window, followed by the other two, and assaulted him in his house. He suffered some severe injuries.

“An 11-year-old boy was in the house at the time. The accused did not phone the police and went outside to find these individuals. It was a fairly heated incident”

Brown also pleaded guilty to having a cannabis cultivation in his own home, with 10 plants valued at £1,200.

Mr Patrick said he grew the cannabis for his own medication, having suffered stab wounds to his neck and legs in the past.

Sheriff Peter Paterson said: “You should not take the law into your own hands, but I accept there was provocation.”

The unpaid work was imposed as an alternative to a fine.

ASSAULT ALLEGATION

A Peebles man appeared in private at Selkirk Sheriff Court accused of assault to severe injury and permanent disfigurement.

Scott Hogarth, 27, made no plea or declaration.

The case was continued for further examination, and he was bailed.

DRIVER BANNED FOR 12 MONTHS

A woman has admitted driving on a Borders road while almost three times the legal alcohol limit.

Alison Mitchell, 55, of Muirdrum Avenue, Cardonald, Glasgow, initially denied the charge at Selkirk Sheriff Court, but shortly before the trial was due to take place, she changed her plea to guilty.

The offence happened on the A701 at Broughton on August 12.

Mitchell was fined £400 and disqualified from driving for 12 months.

DRUNK MAN HAD KNIFE IN BAG

Background reports have been ordered into a man who was found in possession of a lock knife at Galashiels transport interchange.

Colin McLean, 33, of Fairfield Drive, Selkirk, pleaded guilty to the offence, committed on September 6.

Selkirk Sheriff Court was told police officers saw a clearly-intoxicated McLean in the building. He was carrying a plastic carrier bag, and a search revealed the knife.

McLean told police he had no idea there was a knife in the bag as he was so drunk.

Sentence was deferred until December 5, with a psychiatric report called for.

COMPENSATION ORDER FOR WAITER

A waiter has been ordered to pay £700 compensation for causing £3,500 worth of damage to two cars.

Ruttar Neeme, 32, pleaded guilty to wilfully and recklessly kicking the two vehicles, both parked in Highcroft, Kelso, on June 11.

Jedburgh Sheriff Court was told on Tuesday that the excess part of the insurance policy one of the car owners had to pay was £400 and the other had to pay £130.

Neeme of Sydenham Court, Kelso, told police he had a few drinks while watching rugby “and it was all a bit of a blur”.

His lawyer said: “He is extremely remorseful.

“He went after to the houses affected and apologised.”

WOMAN, 31, ADMONISHED

A Hawick woman who bit her partner on the arm during a domestic bust-up has been admonished after being of good behaviour for six months.

Kirsty Renwick, 31, of Scott Crescent, had previously pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to the offence, which happened on April 24.

EXTORTION BID ALLEGATION

A 64-year-old man faces trial at Selkirk Sheriff Court next week on an attempted extortion allegation.

Robert Munro is charged with threatening his brother that unless he responded to letters demanding £600, he would falsely expose him for being involved in criminal activity.

Munro, of Grosvenor Street, Edinburgh, has pleaded not guilty to attempting to extort money from his brother on various occasions in Selkirk between March 2014 and November 2014.

A trial date has been fixed for December 6.

MAN DENIES

BENEFITS FIDDLE

A Hawick man will stand trial at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on February 21 on charges of receiving benefits of more than £10,000 he was not entitled to.

Craig Kewin, 32, of Chay Blyth Place, denied failing to notify a change in his circumstances when claiming employment support allowance in that he was living with someone.

He also denies receiving £231.43 he was not entitled to in October 2011.

Kewin also pleaded not guilty to receiving £4,545.09 between November 2011 and November 2013 and another £6,301.39 in benefits between October 2011 and January 2014.

An intermediate hearing will take place at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, January 9.

DRUG DEALER’S HOME CURFEW

A 30-year-old woman who admitted her second drug-dealing offence has been given a restriction-of-liberty order, keeping her in her Hawick home between 7pm and 7am.

Maryanne Kellagher pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to being concerned in the supply of cannabis at her property in Burnhead Road on April 18.

Defending, Mat Patrick said there was a previous conviction for a similar matter “which puts her in the realms of custody being a consideration”, but he said medical conditions were behind the offence.

However, Sheriff Peter Paterson told her: “Whatever you think about the use of cannabis, society regards it as a crime, and it remains a crime.”

PENSIONER’S PAYBACK

A pensioner who admitted receiving almost £5,000 in benefits to which he was not entitled has been admonished after Jedburgh Sheriff Court was told he was paying back the money.

Roy Guthrie, 66, of Orchard Park, Kelso, admitted not informing the Department of Work and Pensions and Scottish Borders Council of a change in his circumstances when receiving pension payments and housing benefit.

Between August and November 2013, the seasonal farm worker received £1,637.16 he was not entitled to as he was working.

During the same period, he received £875.78 in housing benefit and £2,208.86 in pension credits he was also not entitled to.

Defence lawyer Maureen Sinclair said her client was paying the money back, with £2,444 outstanding.

She told a previous hearing: “He accepts he received funds he was not entitled to, but it was more in ignorance than anything else.”

MAN MUST BEHAVE HIMSELF

A Hawick man who brandished a knife during a disturbance has been ordered to be of good behaviour for the next four months.

Steven Gorman, 22, of Eildon Road, pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour at a house in Wilton Drive, Hawick, on Monday, October 3.

He also admitted obstructing two police officers who were trying to place handcuffs on him.

The case will recall on Monday, March 20.

DANGEROUS DRIVING DENIED

A 28-year-old man has been accused of dangerous driving in Galashiels and Gattonside.

Stuart McCutcheon, described as a prisoner, has denied failing to stop when requested to do by police, mounting a pavement, driving at speeds in excess of 80mph in a 60mph zone and overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic.

McCutcheon is due to face a jury on Tuesday at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

MOTORIST ON TRIAL

A Jedburgh motorist has been accused of careless driving following an accident in which a 76-year-old woman was injured.

Leslie Cramond, 43, of Bountrees, denies the offence, said to have happened on the A68 between St Boswells and Jedburgh on July 15.

A trial date has been set for Jedburgh Sheriff Court on January 26, with an intermediate hearing on January 9.

HEROIN ALLEGATION

Darren Johnstone, 33, of Mayfield Drive, Hawick, will stand trial at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, February 7, on a charge of being in possession of heroin in Hawick on Monday, August 29.

BUST-UP LEADS TO £200 FINE

A Galashiels man was fined £200 at Selkirk Sheriff Court over a bust-up with his partner.

Neil Jones, 51, of Gala Park Court, admitted acting in a threatening or abusive manner at a house in nearby Scott Street on April 8.

The court heard that during an argument, Jones shouted and swore at the woman and called her abusive names.

A 40mph speed limit is to be imposed at an accident blackspot near Innerleithen in the hope of helping avert further car crashes.

Scottish Borders Council’s Tweeddale area forum last unanimously agreed plans to impose a 40mph speed limit on the A72 at Caerlee Corner.

That thumbs-up followed a report by the council’s roads chief officer, Gary Haldane, being presented to the meeting in Peebles last Wednesday.

Tweeddale East councillor Stuart Bell, a member of the A7 Action Group and long-time campaigner for a lower speed limit at Caerlee Corner, said afterwards: “I am really pleased that, after months of lobbying by both councillors and the community, we now have a 40mph extension put in place.

“There have been far too many accidents on that section of road.

“If drivers obey this new speed limit, that corner will be much safer.”

Selkirkshire councillor Gordon Edgar, the authority’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, added: “This is very welcome.

“Anything that can help highlight the dangers to drivers can only be a good thing.

“All we are doing is saying to drivers to go slower”.

The corner was previously assessed last year for a suggested 30mph speed limit extension but did not meet the relevant criteria, the meeting heard.

Campaigners have continued to fight for a lower speed limit, however, and in September, council chiefs and police officers did a U-turn and agreed to rethink their previous opposition.

Despite not meeting the criteria of the 2015 review, the road has been an accident blackspot over recent years, triggering calls for action to be taken.

In 2013, one accident consisted of a motorcyclist skidding off the road and another two involved car drivers crossing the centre white line and colliding with oncoming vehicles.

A further four accidents resulting in injury were reported in 2014, and in 2015 another two followed, with one involving an 81-year-old man.

The proposal was advertised to the public for consideration between October 27 and November 25 and sparked no objections.

The expected cost of lowering the speed limit from 60mph to 40mph is £1,500 for advertising and £1,000 for signs, according to the report.

However, it notes that if the plans do not go ahead drivers will continue to be at risk of road accidents due to driving at inappropriate speeds.

Area forum secretary Kathleen Mason said: “Because of the continuing accident record and the high degree of local concern, members welcomed the report and were pleased to approve the recommendations contained therein.”

How long it will take to bring in the lower speed limit at Caerlee Corner is not yet known, and the move could be subject to ratification by the Scottish Government.

Anti-smoking campaigners in the Borders have been given a national award for their efforts to stub out the unhealthy habit.

Scottish Borders Community Planning Partnership was given the accolade as part of a charter drawn up by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) in a bid to cut the number of Scots smoking from 20% of the population to 5% by 2034.

The plaudit was handed over by South of Scotland Labour list MSP Colin Smyth at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh last Thursday.

Jedburgh councillor Jim Brown, chairman of the partnership’s strategic board, said: “By signing the charter, the partners have pledged to take action in a variety of ways, including raising awareness of the dangers of second-hand smoke, promoting smoke-free environments where children may be present and assisting young people to stop smoking.

“In addition to the well-known health impacts, smoking is the second highest cause of house fires, so any reduction in smoking is to be welcomed, and I am delighted that our partnership approach to this has been recognised.”

Dr Tim Patterson, joint director of public health in the Borders, said: “Smoking affects everyone. It causes harm to not only smokers but those around them through second and third-hand smoke.

“We have a duty of care to protect the health of people in the Borders and promote positive health behaviours.

“I am delighted that the Scottish Borders Community Planning Partnership has been rewarded for its efforts to try to tackle harm caused by tobacco.”

Sheila Duffy, chief executive of ASH in Scotland, said: “We launched Scotland’s charter for a tobacco-free generation to help raise awareness of the worthwhile vision of putting smoking out of fashion for the next generation.

“In its first year, the response to the charter has been excellent.

“We now have 100 organisations signed up, and it is proving an effective way to bring people together and motivate organisations in the fight against tobacco and the harmful effects it has on children and young people.”

“These awards celebrate some of the positive actions that charter signatories across the country are delivering to help to ensure that children who are in nursery now become the first generation to grow up in communities where tobacco is hardly noticed.”

For further details, visit www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/Quit4good.

The Borders partnership was the first organisation of its kind to sign up to the charter.

Plans to boost the capacity of busy services on the Borders Railway are nearing completion, according to Scottish Government transport minister Humza Yousaf.

In a statement to Parliament last week, Mr Yousaf confirmed that moves to provide additional carriages on peak-time services are on track.

Additional carriages are due to be in place from this month onwards as part of a plan to tackle overcrowding, delays and cancellations.

The statement came as part of the transport minister’s announcement of plans to improve ScotRail’s performance including a £5bn, five-year transformation programme.

Mr Yousaf said: “Overcrowding is frustrating. That is why, from mid-December, we will have introduced more services to and from Inverness and are finalising details to provide more carriages on peak-time services on the Borders Railway.

That pledge has been welcomed by rail campaigners.

Campaign for Borders Rail spokesman Atholl Innes said: “This is very welcome as too many trains are overcrowded as well as being cancelled, and that is very disappointing in trying to promote a new railway.

“The quicker we get more coaches and the more reliable the trains are the better. I hope these additional coaches will be put in place permanently.”

The group’s chairman, Allan McLean, added: “The Campaign for Borders Rail welcomes proposed improvements to performance and capacity on the Borders Railway as well as its extension to serve more communities directly”.

The ScotRail Alliance performance improvement plan lays out actions that will be taken to improve performance.

It promises that a review to improve the punctuality and reliability of the £350m Borders route that began in September will be completed by May next year.

The current ScotRail fleet will benefit from a £475m budget set aside for its modernisation and the addition of new trains.

Some £14m of that budget will be spent on improving the reliability and comfort of the class 158 diesel fleet serving much of rural Scotland, including the Borders.

The diesel fleet will see upgrades to its engine radiator system carried out by G&M Radiators in Glasgow.

The firm was visited by the transport minister last Friday, and he said: “These upgrades to the engine radiator system not only help lift the fleet performance, but the work also gives a welcome boost to a longstanding family company and local Scottish jobs.

“Everyone rightly expects a railway network that operates effectively, so when things go wrong, I fully understand the dissatisfaction of passengers and the inconvenience that is caused.

“Although there are no guarantees major failures won’t happen, I give my reassurance that ScotRail has learned lessons and is far better prepared for contingencies, including communication with passengers, when such incidents do take place.

“I have no intention of underplaying the effect of a slide in service quality.

“The actions we are taking and the long-term transformation we have planned underlines this Government’s commitment to improving the service received.

“That is why I instructed an improvement plan.

He added: “Our commitment to our railways is undeniable - we want to see a vibrant, growing industry with more seats and services than ever before. I remain focussed on ensuring the best outcome for passengers - a franchise which delivers for Scotland.”

A five-year housing plan set to see more than £160m invested in affordable housing was approved by Scottish Borders Council on Tuesday.

Members of the authority’s executive committee gave their backing to a strategic housing investment plan expected to lead to almost 1,200 affordable homes being built across the region before 2022.

Welcoming the report, Hawick and Hermitage councillor Ron Smith told members: “This is an ambitious plan in that it will deliver affordable, quality housing for our residents.

“Obviously, this will help stimulate the local economy through creating jobs and training opportunities, with an unparalleled, potential £163m worth of investment over the plan period.”

However, questions over whether the construction sector in the Borders is geared up for that amount of development were raised by Tweeddale East councillor and executive member for economic development, Stuart Bell.

He said: “I welcome the fact that we are trying really hard to dramatically move forward with the number of affordable houses in the Borders, but we are proposing such a significant increase that I am concerned we have not engaged with the construction sector enough.”

In his formal recommendation, later adopted by councillors, Mr Bell added: “I am not happy that adequate signals have been given to the construction sector in order for them to prepare for this.

“I am recommending officers to rapidly engage with the construction sector to inform them of these opportunities and get their feedback on the practicalities before submitting a short report back in six months.”

Further debate followed over the difference between housing need and demand, and questions were also asked about just how thorough the study into the proposed sites had been.

Selkirkshire councillor Vicky Davidson said: “Your assessment on where the need is is based on the demand, but if there are no houses somewhere, then there can be no demand. The housing needs assessments are not particularly accurate if they are based on the housing list.”

Cathy Fancy, group manager of the council’s housing strategy and services team, stressed that the plan is for up to 1,192 houses, but she added: “We will also seek to explore other opportunities along the way. We do have a fairly good picture of where there is not only the demand but the need for affordable housing.”

In the first two years of the new plan, a total of 449 affordable homes are earmarked for delivery across the Borders at locations including Kelso, Lilliesleaf, Duns, Eyemouth and Oxton.

Lowood Estate at Tweedbank accounts for almost a third of the potential housing allocation proposed, having been assessed as suitable to host 300 houses.

The next biggest sites suggested, both lined up to accommodate 100 homes, at Hillview North in Coldstream and Nethershot in Kelso.

Elsewhere in the Borders, Galashiels is in line for 50 new houses, eight at Lintburn Street, 12 at Rose Court and 30 at the former Castle Warehouse site in High Street; Selkirk for 105, 30 at Angles Field and 75 at Heather Mill; Kelso for 70 more, 20 at Tweed Court and 50 at the soon-to-be-vacant Kelso High School site; Hawick for 21, five at Leishman Place, six at Henderson Road and 10 at an old factory site in Fairhurst Drive; Newstead for six, at the Orchard; Peebles for 100, 30 at Rosetta Road and 70 at the March Street mill; Innerleithen for 35, at Caerlee Mill; Ayton for six, north of High Street; and Reston for 38, behind its parish church.

The list of proposed sites will now go to public consultation.

Plans for a £40m whisky distillery near Jedburgh are being recommended for approval in principle next week, paving the way for the creation of a tourist attraction expected to provide jobs for up to 50 people.

Three years since the ambitious proposal for the site around the former Jedforest Hotel at Camptown was first unveiled, Scottish Borders Council’s planning committee will decide on Monday if it should become a reality.

At the end of a 38-page evaluation of the bid for full planning consent submitted by Mossburn Distillers, planning officer Euan Calvert gives the project his endorsement, subject to compliance with a raft of conditions to address concerns over the environmental and ecological impact of the development.

“The proposed development represents a significant economic investment and has been revised and supplemented to demonstrate that any impacts on the natural and built environment can be satisfactorily mitigated,” concludes Mr Calvert.

His report to the committee reveals that the company, owned by Dutch drinks firm Marussia Beverages, wants to phase the development over the next five years.

If the application is approved, the first phase, to be carried out next year and into 2018, would see the creation of a small distillery on land to the east of the former hotel “to focus on small production and educating visitors in the craft of making spirit”, with guided tours provided.

There would also be a 36-seater café and a range of new office buildings.

The second phase, to be built between 2019 and 2021, would focus on land to the north of the site and will, states the report, be “significantly bigger and significantly more productive”.

It will involve the construction of the main Mossburn distillery, capable of producing 25 million litres of spirit a year and featuring four distinctive copper distillation vessels, as well as 21 fermentation tanks.

The manufacturing element of this building – 138m long and 12.5m high – would be combined with a visitor centre featuring a 260-cover ground-floor café, restaurant and entertainment area.

The facility will be serviced by an 81-space car park with access from a new bell-shaped junction on the A68.

On Monday, the committee will hear that the venture, expected to create between 40 and 50 jobs when up and running, has won the qualified support of three local community councils for its “employment tourism benefits”.

The report, however, reveals that the Scottish Environment Protection Agency has maintained its objection to the bid, claiming the raising of land on a greenfield site to accommodate the new buildings poses a flood risk.

Two members of the public have also submitted objections, including Julia Wallace who, with husband Alexander, owns two hotels in Jedburgh, the Glenbank House and the Royal.

Dr Wallace claims the distillery plans would result in an overprovision of café and restaurant facilities to the detriment of food providers and other small business in Jedburgh.

“Distilleries have the opportunity to benefit from a global market,” she writes.

“In contrast, existing food-related businesses in Jedburgh can only operate locally and are highly dependent on the summer tourist trade to support their sustainability.”

If approved, the Camptown distillery would potentially be the second to open in the Borders within months as work is already under way on a £10m rival in Hawick’s Commercial Road.

The Three Stills Company development, called the Borders Distillery, is believed to be the region’s first distillery for almost two centuries, the last having closed in 1837.

Tributes have been paid to a Selkirk teacher following her death during a charity fun run at the weekend.

Evelyn Rafferty, 59, was taking part in the annual Santa Jog at the town’s Bowhill House country park on Saturday when she collapsed.

Despite the best efforts of three fellow runners and paramedics, she could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A semi-retired primary school teacher, Ev, as she was known for short, taught generations of schoolchildren over more than 30 years at Selkirk’s Knowepark Primary School.

Ev’s passion for teaching remained undimmed throughout her life with her retirement from the profession only lasting a fortnight before she happily took up part-time supply duties at Yarrow Primary, St Margaret’s Primary in Galashiels and Kirkhope Primary in Ettrickbridge.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Ev met her husband Bennie while studing at Moray House in Edinburgh, where Bennie graduated the same year as Ev with a certificate in technical teaching.

The couple’s two daughters, Yvonne and Kirsten, were born in 1985 and 1987, and the birth earlier this year of Evelyn and Bennie’s first grandchild, Rosie, to Yvonne and her husband Neil, was a particularly proud moment for the family.

Tributes have poured in this week, with Ev’s employer, Scottish Borders Council, being one of the first to send its sympathies to Ev’s friends and family.

Donna Manson, its service director for children and young people, said: “We are deeply saddened and shocked by this tragic news.

“Ev was a dedicated and loyal teacher who will be sorely missed by her pupils and colleagues.

“We will be putting in place support for staff and pupils, and our condolences go to her husband and family during this difficult time.”

A spokesperson for Knowepark Primary said: “We were shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death of Ev Rafferty at the weekend.

“Ev was a teacher here for many years and touched the lives of the many children and families she worked with.

“She was also a well-respected colleague and friend to staff past and present.

“Our thoughts are with Ev’s family and friends.”

She was also well-known in Selkirk for her sporting abilities, in particular hockey and golfing.

A regular in Selkirk’s hockey team from an early age, she won district honours for the South at both schoolgirl and senior levels.

One of her proudest moments was playing for Selkirk alongside Yvonne and Kirsten during the three seasons leading up to her retiral. In recent years, she took up golf, captaining Selkirk Golf Club’s ladies section in 2004 and 2005.

Selkirk’s current ladies captain, Alison Rutherford said: “Ev always gave 100%, whether on the hockey pitch or golf course,” she said.

“Her commitment was an inspiration to others, and she was someone you could always rely on.

“Earlier this month she agreed to rejoin the ladies’ golf committee, which was typical of her can-do attitude. She is going to be a big miss.”

Other friends took to social media to share their shock and pay tribute, with one, Lianne Lyall, posting: “I still can’t believe it. It’s a huge loss for the Selkirk community.” Another, Sara Jamieson, said Ev’s death would be “a huge loss to Selkirk and beyond.”

A keen traveller, Evelyn enjoyed trips to such far-flung places as Vietnam and Sri Lanka, and on a recent holiday in America fulfilled long-held ambitions by running over New York’s Brooklyn Bridge and up Philadelphia’s ‘Rocky’ steps.

In July, she and Bennie combined family business with pleasure by attending daughter Kirsten’s wedding to Iain in Cyprus.

Ev’s other passions inculded gardening and walking and in 2012, she completed the Edinburgh MoonWalk and she had recently signed up for next year’s MoonWalk in London.

Ev joined more than 150 taking part in the annual charity fun run round Bowhill Estate, dressed in Santa suits to run or walk a three-mile route in aid of Cash For Kids.

Ed Morris, manager of the Bowhill Estate, said: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family at this time.”

The Rafferty family expressed their gratitude to the three runners taking part in Saturday’s fun run, who did everything in their power to resuscitate Evelyn and also thanked the emergency services for their assistance and support.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Police received a report of a woman who collapsed within the Bowhill Country Park in Selkirk on Saturday during a charity run.

“The 59-year-old was treated by ambulance staff but passed away at the scene.

“There appear to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding this death, and a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.”

As a mark of respect, Selkirk Rugby Club, of which Bennie is senior vice-president, cancelled its 2016 sports dinner on Saturday night.

Admission charges for Gala Fairydean Rovers’ Lowland League home game against East Stirlingshire this Saturday have been scrapped.

Instead, the club is adopting a ‘pay what you can’ policy, where supporters of both teams will be asked to make a charitable donation at the gate.

All profits from this venture will be donated to the club’s local charity partners, Scottish HART, The Rowan Bolland Trust, Callum’s Trust and The Borders Asperger’s and Autism Support Group (BAAGS).

Spectators usually pay £5 for entry to Gala FR home league matches.

Premier Club card holders and children under 16 normally get free entry to Lowland League games but, on this occasion, they’ll also be asked to put money in buckets at the turnstiles.

Club secretary Graeme McIver explained: “This is the second time we’ve held a ‘pay what you can’ day at Netherdale and we were very successful in raising money for charity on the previous occasion, in February 2015.

“With Christmas approaching, we felt it would be a good time to try and raise some much-needed funds for the four local charities which are in community partnership with Gala Fairydean Rovers.

“We would encourage as many people as possible to get along and support the team, as well as these worthwhile causes.”

Free entry vouchers, distributed to supporters who attended last month’s William Hill Scottish Cup second-round tie against Elgin City, are also still valid for the game.

East Stirlingshire currently sit in second place in the Lowland League table following their relegation from League 2 last season and are sure to provide stern and attractive opposition to the Braw Lads.

Rovers manager Steven Noble said: “East Stirlingshire are doing very well at the moment. They have been scoring goals and not conceding many.

“In their last match, they beat Selkirk 5-0 at home and will be on a high. However, we are at home and have a very good home record. Indeed, we haven’t been beaten in the league at Netherdale since the start of the season in August.

“We will be hoping to keep this record intact on Saturday. I think we are more than capable of doing this.”

Hawick lads Dean McColm and Taylor Hope have left Gala FR to rejoin their old club, Hawick Waverley.

The Scottish Government is to introduce legisation raising the age of criminal responsibility in Scotland from eight to 12.

Scotland currently has the lowest minimum age of criminal responsibility in Europe and this move will bring the country into line with UN and international standards. The minimum age in England and Wales is 10.

The increase will include safeguards to allow the police to deal with and investigate the most serious and exceptional offences involving under 12s.

Earlier this year, a Scottish Government consultation found that 95 per cent of respondents supported an increase to 12 or above.

In a statement to Parliament today, childcare and early years minister Mark McDonald said the case for change is “clear and compelling.”

He said: “Having the lowest minimum age of criminal responsibility in Europe does not match with our progressive approach to youth justice and ambitions to give children the best start in life.

“In 2010 we raised the age of criminal prosecution to 12 – meaning no-one under the age of 12 will be prosecuted or sentenced in the criminal courts and are instead dealt with through the Children’s Hearing System.

“Raising the age of criminal responsibility will mean people no longer face potentially damaging and life-altering consequences, such as a criminal record, for events that took place when they were a young child.

“I recognise that in exceptional cases appropriate safeguards are needed. Therefore we will ensure police powers to investigate harmful behaviour by under 12s, while there will be risk management and monitoring measures for those who need it.”

Festive cheer was aplenty when crowds turned out to watch Hawick’s Christmas parade last night.

More than 350 teries of all ages turned out full of Christmas spirit in their fancy dress costumes.

Hawick Fire Brigade led the way as the parade marched through the town from Duke Street, through Trinity Gardens and up to High Street. Santa Claus followed in his sleigh while the Hawick Scout Pipe Band, dressed in Santa outfits, piped Christmas tunes.

The parade stopped at the Christmas tree where Santa received a big welcome as he kicked off the countdown to the Christmas lights switch-on.

Greg Mcleod, community councillor, said: “It’s been tremendous and it’s great for the kids. There has been a fantastic turn out and the schools have all put in a big effort.

“A big thank you to the parents for the great costumes and to all the volunteers and to everyone involved. It’s a great way to kick start the season.”

The parade was comprised of floats and fancy dress from Trinity Primary School, Burnfoot Community School, Drumranlig St Cuthbert’s and Hawick High School. The children lit-up the parade with coloured lights incorporated into wonderful costumes of Christmas presents, angels and penguins.

Beat Dance Pulse lit up the parade with fluorescent outfits and glow sticks while Hawick’s Young Farmers, dressed up as penguins, roared through on a decorated tractor.

The costumes were praised by onlookers. Hawick resident Suzanne Neilson said: “it wasn’t long enough! I loved it and the costumes were very good. The kids looked great”.

Marj Stokes who has recently taken up residence in Hawick said: “This is my first Christmas here as we have just moved to the area. It was a lovely show with all the kids. The effort the kids and the schools have gone to with the costumes is great”.

Representatives from the fire brigade also handed out sweets to all the children along the way. Fireman Derek Gordon of Hawick Fire Brigade said: “ It’s been an exceptional evening. We gave out sweets and its great to see the joy on the kids faces and the parents too. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.

Look out for more photos in next weeks Hawick News and Southern Reporter.

Supermarket chefs have solved a culinary conundrum which has baffled Christmas cooks for generations … how to remove the ‘air gap’ from a mince pie.

The pie’s lid usually rises in the oven, creating a space between the fruity mixture and pastry, which can cause the pie to sink when it’s bitten into and leave customers deflated.

But now Asda’s Innovation Chef Mark Richmond and his team have come up with a solution - and taste-tested more than 750 pies in the process - to close the gap in time for Christmas.

The production line is using a new crimper which compresses the pie as it attaches the lid - thus eliminating the air which normally expands during baking.

And this hypnotic video shows the improved mince pies rolling off the production line at the Asda mince pie HQ in Barnsley, South Yorks, at the rate of 720 every MINUTE.

Mark, 42, from Ripon, North Yorks, said: “I’ve wanted to reduce the common mince pie air gap for years and this year we finally have.

“We’ve filled the pie with as much mincemeat as possible and used some clever technology to press the lid onto the pie which removes all the air - just like I would when making pies by hand with my granny when I was young.

“It was simply a case of reverting back to my grandma’s kitchen and how she used to close that gap.”

The mesmerising video follows the process from start to finish as buttered pastry is piped down from a secret room onto the production line.

Asda’s secret recipe of pre-mixed ingredients including fruit and spices are then pumped into each base before being sealed with pastry lids.

Quality control teams patrol either side of the line to ensure no glitches occur before the pies are ushered into a huge oven for nine and a half minutes.

Mark said: “The line creates 720 mince pies a minute so we’ve got to get it right. I think even Willy Wonka would be happy with this process.

“A mince pie is a real Christmas tradition and it was very satisfying to draw on my grandmother’s system to produce a pie that is filled without a gap.

“The video is oddly hypnotic to watch.”

Cases of meningitis and septicaemia are expected to rise over the winter and a leading charity is urging greater awareness of the symptoms.

The Meningitis Research Foundation has estimated that there have been on average around 3,200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia annually in the UK; one in 10 people affected will die and a third of survivors will be left with after-effects including serious as brain damage, amputations, blindness or hearing loss.

On average there are more than three times as many cases of the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in January compared with September.

Bacteria are most commonly found living harmlessly in the noses and throats of adolescents and young adults but can be passed on to others through social contact.

Recent research has shown that adolescents are morel likely to have more of these bacteria in winter.

Rapid identification and treatment is vital but early symptoms such as fever, vomiting, headache and feeling unwell can often be missed as they resemble many other less serious illnesses.

Around half of children with the most common cause of bacterial meningitis are turned away by their GP at first visit.

Limb pain, pale skin, and cold hands and feet often appear earlier than the rash, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and confusion and MRF is emphasising that it is important for parents to trust their instincts and return to a health professional quickly if their child’s symptoms progress.

Mary Millar, Scotland manager, said: “Vaccines are already proving their worth in controlling some forms of meningitis and septicaemia but they don’t protect against all strains. Over the festive period it’s more important than ever for families to be vigilant and know the symptoms.”

The charity is running a festive appeal to help combat the disease. Visit www.meningitis.org/tistheseason to download the mince pie morning pack to raise funds to fund research and support affected individuals and families. Further information about symptoms can be found at www.meningitis.org/symptoms or by calling the Freefone helpline on 080 8800 3344.