One of the leading lights in the campaign for the opening of the Borders Railway made further calls to have it extended to her home town of Hawick during a visit to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh.

Madge Elliot is renowned for her fight to save the Waverley Line – linking Edinburgh, Hawick and Carlisle – prior to its closure in 1969.

During a campaign to keep the railway line in the Borders, Mrs Elliot collected a petition of 11,678 signatures. With her 11-year-old son Kim and Liberal MP David Steel, plus bagpiper Harry Brown and the then earl of Dalkeith, she delivered it to then prime minister Harold Wilson at 10 Downing Street in December 1968.

Despite the line’s closure, she continued to actively campaign for its reopening as a member of the Campaign for Borders Rail.

Her persistence finally paid off in September 2015 when rail services began again on the 30-mile track from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, and now she wants to see the track extended from Hawick and on to Carlisle.

Last week, the 88-year-old visited a new photographic exhibition on the history of the Scottish Parliament, with one of the images on display capturing Mrs Elliot, made a Member of the British Empire in 1999, travelling on the newly reopened Waverley Line.

She said: “It meant a great deal to me and the community in the Borders to get the railway line reopened, and, of course, the Scottish Parliament played an important role in the change coming about.

“I am really pleased to see this story on display in Holyrood.

“The railway line is breathing new life into the Borders.

“Every time I see the train, like this morning as we came to visit the Parliament’s new exhibition, it brings a smile to my face.”

Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP John Lamont welcomed Mrs Elliot and her son Kim to the Scottish Parliament.

He said: “It is absolutely fitting that this new exhibition pays tribute to the hard work of Madge and other campaigners to bring back part of the Waverley line.

“Madge has visited the Scottish Parliament a number of times to push for the new line, and it was down to her hard work that the legislation was passed to begin the process of reopening the railway.

“While the results of her efforts have been great, Madge agrees with the need to continue to press for the line to go on to Hawick, her home town, and beyond.”

John added: “Very fittingly, Madge took the train to the Parliament and said she was very impressed with the service.”

The Campaign for Borders Rail is now focused on the network’s extension to Hawick and Carlisle and is lobbying for a feasibility study as soon as possible.

The family of a Royal British Legion stalwart have handed over almost £2,400 to the Borders General Hospital’s stroke unit to thank it for the care it provided for him in his last days of life.

Tom Jones, of Darnick, died in December following a stroke, just eight days before his 70th birthday and only weeks after hanging up the legion banner he had carried as a standard bearer for the previous 14 years.

A cheque for £2,380 was presented to consultant Paul Syme at the Melrose unit by Tom’s wife Iris and their son Brian.

That money was raised by a collection taken by family and friends at a service of thanksgiving at Melrose Parish Church.

Iris said: “I couldn’t believe just how many people turned out for his funeral. We really didn’t expect that many people to show, never mind such a large amount of donations. It really is an incredible amount to be able to hand over.”

Tom was born in Fife but spent all of his childhood in Melrose.

In 1965, he joined the Parachute Regiment. During his six years in the airborne regiment, he saw action in Bahrain, Aden, Yeman, Singapore, Malaya and Northern Ireland.

He and Iris married in 1969, and Tom left the regiment in 1971 to join his new wife in running of Hettie’s hair salon in Melrose’s High Street until his retirement 14 years ago.

Tom maintained a keen interest in sports including golf. His passion, however, was horses and showjumping, and he took part in numerous events.

Tom had carried the banner for his local Royal British Legion branch on Remembrance Sunday for 14 years, only giving up that standard bearer’s role last November 13.

He said he was “very proud and honoured” to undertake that duty but joked that he only kept on doing it so long “because they couldn’t find anyone else”.

On his final day as standard bearer, Tom’s dedication shone as he continued to carry out duties at remembrance services in Newstead, Gattonside and Melrose.

Iris said: “The staff at Borders General Hospital were absolutely brilliant, and they kept Tom so very comfortable.

“The care he received was really excellent, and we want to thank them and allow them to pass that care onto others.”

She added: “You just have to keep on going, and I am doing that by keeping busy through continuing to work.”

Tom also leaves a 12-year-old granddaughter, Lucy.

Karen Wilson, fundraising manager at the Difference, the hospital’s charity, said: “We are so very grateful to the Jones family for their kind donation.

“Donations help fund enhancements to NHS Borders services such as patient comforts, improvements to patient environments as well as specialist equipment.

“At the moment, staff at the stroke unit are looking at making improvements to their garden so that patients can enjoy this outdoor space, and this donation will go a long way to helping make that happen.”

Gala Fairyden Rovers mounted a spirited second half recovery to secure a victory over Civil Service Strollers and rose to 7th place in the league.

Steven Noble’s side struggled against the Edinburgh side in the first half, but it was a different Gala side who emerged in the second and despite being reduced to 10 men they held on for a valuable three points.

The Netherale side trailed to a 40th minute penalty, converted by Civil’s Jack Downie. Rreferee Craig Ferguson judged that Gala’s Jason Krones had fouled Joseph Dingwall in the box.

Noble took immediate steps and introduced Des Sutherland into attack during the interval, which paid dividends just five minutes later when Civil failed clear from a corner and the Gala striker was on hand to fire home the equaliser from six yards.

Gala took the lead just before the hour mark: Rangers loanee Jason Krones stepped up to take a free-kick from a central position outside the box and nonchalantly fired a shot past Burnside.

Things got even better for Gala on 67 minutes when Ross Aitchison completed a fantastic move by hammering the ball high into the net.

Churchill grabbed a lifeline for the visitors when he nipped in front of Wright on 85 minutes to score.

With just minutes remaining Gala’s Lee Stephen was red-carded: he was fouled and grabbed the ball to take the free-kick quickly, but Ferguson had not yet blown his whistle and Stephen issued a second yellow card for deliberate hand-ball.

Lynn

Miller

Eighteen pubs and clubs across the Borders were rewarded at a ceremony in the Buccleuch Arms Hotel, St Boswells, on Thursday, March 2.

And Kelso appears to have a wealth of quality establishments, with four of them – Rutherford’s Micropub, The Cobbles, The Queen’s Head Hotel, and The Waggon Inn –winning the top gold award.

And the latter two are in the running for a Scotland-wide award, in the Best Hotel Bar and Best Independent Pub categories respectively at a ceremony in Glasgow on March 30.

The other gold award winners on Thursday, are: Kings Arms Hotel, Melrose; The Horse and Hound, Bonchester Bridge; Innerleithen Union Club; Barony Castle Hotel, Eddleston; Hunters Hall, Galashiels; The Bourtree, Hawick and Oblo in Eyemouth.

There were four silver awards presented, to: The Allanton Inn; The Liddesdale Hotel, Newcastleton; Warehouse, Galashiels; and the Black Bull Hotel, Duns. The bronze award winners were: Grapevine, Galashiels; The County Hotel, Selkirk; and the hosts, Buccleuch Arms, St Boswells.

Councillor Donald Moffat, who is Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for community safety, said: “Best Bar None continues to grow in the Borders, with a record number of winners this year.

“This shows that our licensed premises understand the benefits of the scheme and are able to show they are meeting consistently high standards.

“I’d like to congratulate all of our local winners and wish both the Queen’s Head and the Waggon the best of luck in the national finals later this month.”

The Best Bar None awards are given to premises that meet criteria covering the five key elements of the Licensing Scotland Act of 2005.

PC Nick Walker of the Scottish Borders Safer Community Team, and local Best Bar None leader, said: “Best Bar None is a great opportunity for premises and partner agencies in the region to work together in order to maintain safe and welcoming licensed venues.

“The 2017 scheme will launch in the spring and I would encourage all local licensed premises to take part.”

Voters will go to the polls in Burnfoot later this month, with the victors set to share a £30,000 windfall.

Community group Burnfoot Bids Together is inviting residents of the Hawick estate to vote for their favourites out of 25 projects shortlisted to split a funding pot available to support local clubs, groups and organisations.

The funding was secured by Burnfoot Community Futures for distribution to groups that either operate in Burnfoot or benefit the community there in some way.

More than 40 responses were received, giving the steering group the unenviable task of picking 25 to go through to the final voting stage.

Now the votes are to be cast during a family fun day at Burnfoot Community School on Sunday, March 19, from 11am to 5pm.

Steering group member Leighann Rowley said: “We were amazed and delighted at the response.

“We received a much higher number of applications than we expected, with some really great groups and existing projects applying.

“It was a very difficult task to shortlist, but now we’re at the next stage of planning and organising an event to allow the community to vote for those which they feel are most deserving of a share of the funding.”

There are a variety of projects to vote for, including groups for children, adults and older people, ranging from knitting circles to job clubs and mental health-related support organisations to a memorial project.

Leighann added: “What we need is for the people of Burnfoot to do what they do best and come out on March 19 and support their local community by casting their votes.

“There will be an opportunity to listen to presentations from each of the shortlisted bids before voting for the ones that people think would be of most benefit.

“We’ll be making the day as entertaining as possible, with fun activities for children to enjoy, music throughout and an acoustic set from Pyre, a covers band.

“It’s sure to be an enjoyable family day.”

The project is supported by Kenny Harrow, a worker for Scottish Borders Council’s community learning and development team.

Selkirkshire councillor Vicky Davidson, the council’s executive member for culture, sport and community learning, added: “This is a wonderful example of a local community coming together to support each other.

“It cannot have been easy to choose which projects to have put through to the next round, with another exciting challenge ahead when residents are asked to choose their favourites.

“I have no doubt they will make the right decision.

“Whatever projects are chosen will make a significant difference to the people of Burnfoot.”

Fjordhus Reivers produced some fantastic hockey on Saturday with a 7-2 win over Liberton.

The first Reivers goal came from a strike at the top of the circle by Sara Robson.

This was the first of four for Robson as she soon scored the second of the match with a long ball up the pitch from Holly Shepherd in defence into the top corner, Robson used her skills along the baseline and slipped the ball into the net.

After a well worked penalty corner Laura McLean gained her first goal with a deflection from the back post and not long after her second came from a rebound shot straight to her stick allowing her to slip the ball passed the keepers feet.

A lack of concentration in the home sides meant that the visitors first goal was scored minutes before half time but this didn’t drop their heads as Robson scored her third goal in the dying seconds of the first half from a quick break through the visitors defence and a one on one with the keeper.

Going into the second half Reivers kept up the pressure with lots of shots on goal however with a strong visitors keeper failed to get the ball into the goal.

Keira Donlevy scored her first of the match from linking passes with Denise Fairbairn up the pitch and a clean shot into the bottom corner.

Another quick break for the visitors left Reivers conceding a second goal but that wasn’t the last from them, with a huge team effort in the last five minutes linking passes across the midfield Laura McLean picking the ball up on the left drove up the pitch into the visitors circle and found Robson waiting on the penalty spot for an easy tap into the goal and her fourth.

A great weekend’s running was had by the Lauderdale Limpers, with Ian Woodcock and Leahn Parry taking part in the annual Three Eildons 10 mile race in Melrose whilst other members met for the clubs monthly breakfast run, taking them this weekend on the scenic route followed by the Lauder Common Riding.

The Three Eildons Trail Race, organised by Melrose Races, was a complete sell-out with registration post race buffet and presentations taking place in the Melrose Rugby Club – a 5-10 minute walk from the start line.

The 10.5 mile route starts at the bottom of the Boglie Road heading straight uphill to the Eildons. The first 2 miles are the toughest as runners have a gradual climb on road towards the Rhymers Stone, and then the very muddy track to the top of the first Eildon.

Runners then have the task of climbing up and over the further two Eildon hills before descending into woodland and down onto Bowden Common.

Runners then tackle undulating trails through scenic woodland and river bank back to Rhymers stone and a fast downhill final mile to the finish line.

Both Leahn and Ian completed the extremely well organised event in excellent times.

Scotland’s environmental watchdog is opposing plans by Scottish Borders Council to build a £5.2m waste transfer station on the outskirts of Galashiels.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency is basing its objection to the proposed Easter Langlee plant on what it describes as lack of information, despite several preliminary meetings with the council aimed at resolving potential planning issues.

The council’s own planning committee is due to decide on the application for the facility in April.

If approved, 52,000 tonnes of household and commercial waste a year would be transported out of the region from the site, beginning in 2018.

Current landfill operations at the site are due to be phased out.

In support of its planning bid, the council has commissioned two reports from a firm of consultants.

They claim that noise relating to the station would have a low impact on the nearest neighbours of the site and that there is no risk of it generating significant amounts of unpleasant smells.

The agency, however, takes issue with both reports.

“The noise assessment does not appear to have taken account of the noise from reversing lorries and must be revised to take this into account,” it says.

“We consider the odour assessment should focus on the abatement and reduction of odour emissions rather than focus on modelling which is very uncertain due to its subjective nature.

“We have seen cases where modelling has predicted no odour nuisance where, in reality, there has been an odour nuisance.”

The statutory watchdog also takes exception to the proposed drainage arrangements for the site, claiming: “These are not in line either with discussions between the applicants and us or acceptable practice.”

The agency also disputes a revised transport impact statement commissioned by the council claiming the station would generate just two extra articulated lorry movements per day and concluding: “There are no transport-related issues preventing the award of planning consent.”

An agency spokesman states: “We note in the transport report that the distances from Coopersknowe Crescent and Melrose Gait are given as 500m and 800m respectively. We believe this is incorrect and the distances are actually 310m and 250m respectively.”

The transport study has also angered two residents of nearby homes – Norman Young and Jeanette Scougall, occupants of cottages at the narrowest section of the minor C77 road linking Galashiels to the waste site.

In his letter of objection, Mr Young says: “Having read the revised transport statement, I could not believe my eyes.”

He recalls that at a public meeting last autumn organised in conjunction with the council, those present were told that, from day one of operation at the proposed station, the volume of articulated lorries would double or even treble.

“Somehow, the numbers have changed,” he says.

“Our feelings are that this report is very much one-sided to enable planning permission to be granted.”

Mrs Scougall writes: “The revised transport statement is painting a picture of how everything is rosy on the C77 road.

“We feel this is only in order that the new centre can gain planning permission, and no consideration has been given as to how the large volume of articulated lorries will impact on us as residents.”

A former Hawick man has been awarded the freedom of the borough of Southend-on-Sea in Essex.

Rob Tinlin joined the town’s council in 2005 and went on to become its chief executive and town clerk, and that service was recognised at a meeting of the full council last week.

It was a poignant moment for the former Hawick High School head boy and Burnfoot Primary pupil, who left the Borders as a teenager to study at Edinburgh’s Heriot-Watt University and never fully returned.

Rob, 63, used to make regular visits to Hawick to see his mother May Tinlin and sister Nan Farquhar, but both died recently. His brother-in-law Andrew Farquhar still lives in the town, however.

He said: “The last freedom of the burgh I remember seeing was Chay Blyth getting his. I was head boy of at Hawick High and remember being at a really fancy ceremony in the town hall.

“They are few and far between. I am chuffed as most councils don’t hand them out very often.

“It makes you feel quite humbled, to be honest.

“I have had a wonderful 12 years and it has been an absolute privilege to serve as the borough’s ninth town clerk and to serve for almost a tenth of the life of the borough council.

“Receiving the freedom of the borough is a great end to my time in Southend-on-Sea.”

He is now looking forward to returning north of the border and retiring to North Berwick at the end of the month, and he says more visits home to Hawick will be in order in his retirement.

“I am one of those people that says a day out of Hawick is a day wasted, so I have wasted most of my days since, except visits up to see my family,” he said.

“You can take the boy out of Hawick but not the Hawick out of the boy.”

Rob is a chartered town planner and started his career as a student planner in the old Scottish Office’s development department in June 1974, before spending 17 years working in East Lothian, seven in South Northamptonshire and the last 12 in Southend-on-Sea.

Southend-on-Sea council leader John Lamb added: “Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour that Southend-on-Sea Borough Council can bestow upon an individual.

“It is with great pride that the council bestows this honour on our outgoing chief executive and town clerk.

“It is very well deserved and is testament to the eminent and outstanding public service he has rendered to the borough from 2005 to 2017.”

Denholm villagers donned their wellies and waterproofs to defy the weather and make the most of their annual fair.

However, its organisers have praised the community spirit of those who rallied round to enjoy the day regardless.

“Despite the terrible weather it was still a great success,” one of the event’s organisers, the Rev Douglas Nicol said. “Lots of local people turned up, most in their wet weather gear.

“Many stalls were sold out of their goods, and lots of local charities have made a lot of money out of it, so that is the main thing.

“Unfortunately, because of the weather, the bouncy castle could not be put up, and the Highland and Maypole dancing had to be cancelled as it was too slippy to dance in.

“But we have had great weather for the last six years, so we had to take our turn.”

While the dog agility display and performances from Hawick Scout Pipe Band carried on as normal on the green, the St Boswells Concert Band and the fancy-dress parade were moved in to the church.

Mr Nicol added: “Little Bo Peep was a little concerned about taking her Jacob sheep indoors, but I am glad to say her sheep was very well behaved in the church.

“It was also the first fair in recent years without the bogie race, and we had our concerns about that, but it was still very well supported. Thanks to everyone who came out in atrocious weather to support the fair. It was a real community event, and we made the most of it.”

A chef who kicked a man with learning difficulties on the head at a Galashiels superstore was this week told he would have been jailed if he had a previous conviction for assault.

John-Paul Weldon repeatedly pushed his 19-year-old victim, causing him to fall to the ground, put him in a headlock and kicked him on the head to his injury.

The incident happened at around 4am on Sunday, February 5, at the Tesco car park.

The 27-year-old accused, formerly of Hawick and now living in High Street, Galashiels, also admitted a second charge of struggling violently with two police officers at the nearby Asda supermarket shortly afterwards.

Selkirk Sheriff Court was told the teenage victim sustained bruising to the face and swelling in the attack which was captured on the Tesco CCTV system and police were alerted. When officers caught up with Weldon, he started being aggressive towards them and “significant force” was required to put him into the cage of a police vehicle.

Prosecutor Graham Fraser said the victim had learning difficulties, “but tries to live a semi-independent life”.

Defence lawyer Ed Hulme said his client had no recollection of the incident, but pleaded guilty after watching the CCTV footage. He added that Weldon did not know his victim, or was aware he had learning difficulties and had not targeted him.

Mr Hulme said it was the complainer who approached Weldon and his client had reacted to something that had been said.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre told Weldon: “If you had a previous conviction for assault you would be going to jail. There is no rhyme or reason why you did this.”

Weldon was ordered to pay £750 compensation to his victim and carry out 180 hours of unpaid work as a direct alternative to custody. In addition, he was given a five-month curfew, keeping him in his home between the hours of 10.30pm-6.30am.

Sheriff McIntyre added that if Weldon breached the community payback order he would receive an eight-month custodial sentence.

Greetings were exchanged and friendships forged as the curtain was raised for this year’s Galashiels Braw Lad’s Gathering by its spurs night on Friday.

Gala principals Greg Robertson and Amy Thomson led their first rideout to meet Selkirk Royal Burgh Standard Bearer Kieran Riddell and his burleymen as they forded the Tweed at Galafoot. And the future of the gathering is in very safe hands if last week’s strong start is anything to go by, according to Braw Lad Greg.

“The turnout was absolutely outstanding, and with 93 young riders too, it was one of the best we have had in a while,” he said. “It was really great to see possible future braw lads and lasses following and the inspiration that myself and Amy can give them.

“It’s good for the future, and it doesn’t look like our traditions are going to die out anytime soon.

“They were so happy to see us when we gave out the ribbons at the end, and seeing how much they look up to us is crazy.”

Following in the footsteps of those before them, the principals shook hands at the Tweed and together led riders back to their home town, where Galashiels Ex-Service Pipe Band and a large contingent of supporters from both towns greeted them.

The main party accepted a traditional stirrup cup from Gala YM rugby club at the fountain, and for the first time rosettes were handed to the young riders who took part.

They then headed to the town’s Royal British Legion club for the traditional spurs night dinner hosted by the Gala Souters’ Association.

Here, in the company of around 100 guests, Gala Souters’ chairman George Emond presented Kieran with his spurs while the Braw Lad and Lass too received their spurs and compact mirror respectively from ex-standard bearer Douglas Gunn.

The toast to the royal and ancient burgh and ancient crafts was given by Matthew Burgess, with the reply by Selkirk Common Riding Trust chairman Jake Wheelans.

Mr Edmond and Mr Gunn gave the toasts to the standard bearer and the Braw Lad and lass respectively, before each principal replied in turn.

Music came from George Inglis and Jimmy Gibb.

Greg added: “The Gala Souters’ Association play a big part in the evening, and they gave us a warm welcome. None of it had really felt like reality until Friday. It’s great, though. I really can’t put it into words the feeling it’s giving me.”

Looking ahead to the next rideout, he added: “Threepwood is always a great ride.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the Lauder principals at Threepwood field for the historic ceremony and getting my Threepwood medal.”

The cavalcade will leave Netherdale at 5.45pm heading along Nether Road, Tweed Road, Winston Road and Melrose Road before travelling cross-country to meet the Lauder contingent at Threepwood at around 7.15pm.

Ladies Day marks the final day of the National Hunt Season at Kelso Races this Sunday (May 28).

Gates open at noon and the action gets under way at 1.15pm, with the first of two Pony Races, followed by the 2m Border Facilities Novices’ Hurdle off at 2.15pm.

Adam Pringle is a great supporter and provides a lot of the mobile facilities which are so critical to the smooth running of this hugely popular day at the Borders track. Some very familiar colours including Boogie Life and Uluroo (Ray Green), Blakerigg (David &Nicky Robinson) and Shepherd’s Bight (Susie Wood) hope to run in this race.

The latter’s silks were carried to a famous victory in the 1982 Scottish National by Susie’s late father, Colonel David Greig onCockle Strand, and another interesting contender is Champagne City, a rare Tom George entry, who was fourth on his debut over hurdles at Newton Abbot recently.

The feature race of the day is the Ayton Castle Handicap Chase, run over 3m 2f and with a total prize fund of £12,000, and is generously sponsored by Richard Syred and Brian Parsons, the owners of the spectacular Ayton Castle, which is being renovated and returned to its prime as one of the leading stately homes in the south of Scotland.

Based in London, the two owners are very anxious to have a strong commitment with the local community, hence their sponsorship and party at the Racecourse.

Alistair Whillans and Pena Dorada bid to go one better after coming second in this last year. Also among a cracking entry of 20 is Stephen McConville’s prolific winning point to pointer Anseananchai Cliste – a first runner at Kelso for the Irishman – and Stuart Coltherd’s Selkirk raider, Ash Park.

The King’s Own Scottish Borderers are probably Kelso’s longest standing sponsor and, under Colonel Colin Hogg’s leadership, have been hugely supportive over very many years – generously providing not only a magnificent trophy but also a real collector’s piece in a Spode Plate, commissioned especially for the occasion.

The 2m 1f Novices’ Handicap Chase is sure to be a very competitive race, which was won last year by the One For Arthur partnership of Lucinda Russell and Derek Fox, with Seven Devils.

One of the great success stories of the Borders in recent years has been the emergence of Elliot Henderson and his son, Gavin, in the timber harvesting and plant hire world. Their business has gone from strength to strength and Gavin will be heading up the party this year.

Cave Hunter, trained near Hawick by Wendy Hamilton, bids for three in a row as he has been victorious in this for the last two years. Bafana Choice, trained by Chris Grant’s wife, Sue, has been second in the Heart Of All England and Buccleuch Cup on his last two starts.

Another of Kelso’s most loyal and supportive sponsors are Dennis and Margaret Coppola, who have sponsored the 2m Handicap Hurdle in honour of their four grandchildren.

Harriet Graham-trained Sudski Star, owned by Kelso director Geoff Adam, goes for a track hat-trick after wins over course and distance and 2m 2f. Donald McCain, who saddled a double on this card 12months ago, could hold the key as he is double-handed with Cousin Oscar and Dear Sire, both the winners of two races at the tail end of last season.

The Royal Scot’s Dragoon Guards are also regular supporters of Racing at Kelso and they sponsor the Open Hunter Chase, run over 3m 2f, with a very generous total prize fund of £7000. With their headquarters in Edinburgh Castle, this regiment, with such a great and honourable history, will have a strong contingent present on the day organised by Major General Charles Ramsey of Greenlaw.

It was won last year by Donald McCain’s What Happens Now, with runner-up Nortonthorpelegend subsequently boosting the Kelso form by winning three races for Rebecca Menzies.

Kaye Niven, of Five Star Taxis in Galashiels, backs the closing bumper of the day. Katie Scott, based in the Borders, is represented by the unraced The Dawn Bandit and Western Lass who was third on her debut at Kelso in February. Malcolm Jefferson has a decent record in bumpers and his home-bred newcomer Our Sioux Sue takes the eye.

The action-packed day is rounded off with the ‘Flying Fillies Charity Race’, in aid of The IJF and The House that Jack Built. Organised by Jack Berry, this race has been run for several years and sees 12 all-female, jockeys from across the racing industry take to the track to race on the flat over 1m 5f. It is a fun, and fitting, end to Ladies Day at Kelso 2017.

Don’t forget to dress to impress for your chance to be part of the Best Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Couple competitions, sponsored by A. Hume Country Clothing of Kelso, and the Best Hat competition, sponsored by Karen Reid Designs, with up to £300 worth of vouchers to be won.

This meeting rounds off what has been a hugely successful year for Kelso with record prize money just short of £1 million. Racing returns to Kelso for the new season on Wednesday, September 20, with the Twilight Meeting.

There’s more information at www.kelso-races.co.uk

Staff at the Tesco Extra in Galashiels fear up to 40 jobs could be lost once the superstore ceases 24-hour trading later this year.

A source at the shop, who asked not to be named, told us that when the Paton Street store starts closing between the hours of midnight and 6am, nightshift workers will begin to lose their jobs.

While Tesco told us that this was not a job-cutting exercise, and that the move away from 24-hour trading was to improve their customers’ shopping trip during the day, the retail giant did not deny that some jobs could be lost.

A spokesman for Tesco said: “In April, we announced that we were planning some changes in a number of our stores, including in Galashiels, to help us run them more simply and deliver the best possible service for customers.

“Where this means changes to a colleague’s role, we will be working with them to ensure they are fully supported.”

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers said it is in talks with Tesco over the chain’s plans for a number of its stores.

Pauline Foulkes, the union’s national officer, said: “We are now entering into a period of consultation.

“Our priorities through this process are to keep as many people employed in the business as possible and get the best deal for staff.

“We are providing our members with the support, advice and representation they need through these changes.”

The union said that the changes the company is proposing differ from store to store but have included combining customer desks, merging departments, moving the nightshift onto days and other measures.

However, our source claims early talks with management have led staff to fear for their jobs.

Meanwhile, another retail chain, TK Maxx, is opening a new Galashiels store next Thursday, June 1.

The store, offering brand-name clothing and other items at low prices, has taken over the former Comet site on the Low Buckholmside Retail Park, and it claims the new store has provided 37 new jobs.

TK Maxx spokesperson commented: “We’re delighted to be opening a brand new store in Galashiels. We can’t wait for shoppers to walk through our doors and discover their own treasures.”

Jack Clark, convener of the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce, said all the job movements show that shoppers should not forget the independent High Street shops.

He told us: “Whatever Tesco do will be a business decision and they’ll have their reasons for doing so.

“I’ve always wondered who shops between midnight and 6am anyway.

“What this does show is that the big names will come and go, but at the same time, we don’t want to forget to support the existing suppliers in the high street.

“They are diminishing in their numbers – and it’s important that these are supported.”

The ever-popular Ladies Day is back at Kelso Races for its 11th year – and in 2017 it will be bigger and better!

As well as a fantastic card of seven National Hunt races, there are also two Pony Races and the ‘Flying Fillies Charity Race’, in aid of The IJF and The House that Jack Built.

But the action isn’t just on the track – and it’s not just the horses that will be looking their best on the day.

A. Hume Country Clothing, based in Kelso, generously sponsors the Best Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Couple competition. Archie Hume and his team will be on hand on the day to pick the 10 finalists and winners – and with three £150 A. Hume vouchers to be won, it is certainly worth going the extra furlong and taking part.

Karen Reid, of Karen Reid Designs, kindly sponsors the Best Hat competition and will be keeping an eye out for the unique and stunning hats on show. She is generously offering a £300 voucher for one of her ‘Creations of Excellence’ as a prize to the winner on the day.

The racecourse organises a Best Dressed Window competition in the town in the run-up to Ladies Day – and this year saw a bumper amount of entries. For the first time, the voting was opened up to the public, who got the chance to ‘like’ their favourite on the racecourse’s Facebook page. There were over 1200 votes in total over17 entries and Border Blooms came out victorious, with more than 300 votes.

Gail Watson, of Border Blooms, created a wonderful display with a fascinator made of flowers, and a matching bag and shoes made of all sorts of flowers and foliage. Gail said if she won, she would wear the hat to Ladies Day, so that’ll be something to look out for.

There were some other fantastic runners-up, including Swans Shoes, Reflections Bridal and James Stewart and Son, who had some help from the pupils of Ednam Primary School.

It’s not too late to get your tickets for Ladies Day and you can get a discount if you book before noon on Friday, May 26.

This meeting rounds off what has been a hugely successful year for Kelso, with record prize money just short of £1 million. Racing returns to Kelso for the new season on Wednesday, September 20 with the Twilight Meeting.

For more information, log on to www.kelso-races.co.uk

Selkirk RFC team manager Tom Ramage believes the Philiphaugh side can pose a potent challenge for promotion in 2017-18, after a season of rebuilding.

The Souters managed a top-half finish in BT National League Division I last term but Ramage said the campaign – which followed relegation in 2015-16 – was intended as a period of taking stock and trying to construct a new side, rather than aiming for an instant BT Premiership return.

However, the search had been under way already for seven or eight weeks for some new players and he believed “very much” that Selkirk could be worthy challengers for a trip back upstairs.

“Everybody we played this year (in the league) we beat, apart from Marr,” he pointed out.

Selkirk were quite capable of going back up again but “it’s a hard league to play in,” added Ramage.

“We want to get a couple of lads regarding beefing up the pack and to bring some more pace into the back line,” he said.

Next season’s League I will have a heavy Borders presence.

In addition to Selkirk and Jed-Forest, who made a strong bid for promotion themselves last season, relegated Gala and newly-promoted Kelso will also be part of the mix.

The Colonial Society is delighted to report that once again there will be a large turnout of exiles and visitors from overseas at this year’s Common Riding.

Details of those who are known to the society are listed right. As usual, the visitors will be introduced to the audience at the Annual Colour Bussin’ in the Victoria Hall on Wednesday , June 14 (tickets available in local newsagents) which will then be followed by the Overseas Visitors Reception, hosted by the Colonial Society.

Society chairman Ian Clapperton would be delighted to learn of any other exiles and overseas visitors who are planning to make the trip this year.

He said: “We wish all our returning exiles and overseas visitors a memorable Common Riding and that Colonial Standard Bearer Martin Murray has a large following ‘’doon the Green’’ before returning to the Market Place to cast his flag in the time honoured fashion – Safe Oot, Safe In.”

Colonial Standard Bearer Martin Murray is a former Selkirk rugby player who played for the club from 1999 to 2011, but his history with Selkirk Common Riding goes back even further to 1996 when he first attended with his future wife Fiona McKenzie.

She and Martin moved to Selkirk in 2002 and both their children, Ruaridh (14) and Sarah (9) were initially raised in Selkirk, attending Knowepark School before the family moved to Qatar in 2013 for work.

There’s a great excuse to cover your family with pixie dust and fly over to Bowhill House and Country Estate this weekend.

The Peter Pan-themed event, from 11am-4pm every day from Saturday, May 27, until Monday, May 29, is perfect for little ones – and parents who aren’t quite ready to grow up.

Families can build dens like Lost Boys, create glittering wands to chant for fairies or voyage on a crocodile hunt, led by Captain Hook.

The whole family will also have the chance to go on the lookout for Shadows during tours of Bowhill House and sprinkle pixie dust around the estate on Tinkerbell trails and treasure hunts.

Rory Powell, countryside, learning and engagement ranger, said: “Whether you believe in fairies or not, our magical weekend has something for all the family to enjoy.

“There will be plenty going on to keep everyone entertained, from crafts to outdoor adventures based on the much-loved tale of Peter Pan and its beloved characters.”

Entry for the estate and gardens costs £4.50 for adults and £3.50 for concessions and children aged 3-16 years. Under threes go free and families (two adults and two children) cost just £14.

Visit www.bowhillhouse.co.uk for further information.

The Argus Playgroup in Selkirk will be holding an open day on Wednesday, May 31, from 1-3pm.

This will allow parents and children who are looking at pre-school nursery availability to visit the playgroup and meet with the play leaders.

It is an opportunity for parents to discuss with them how to register and what funding may be available, as well as seeing all the fun learning activities which take place within the playroom and garden area.

The playgroup is also offering one of its poloshirts free to those who register on the day.

The parent-led community playgroup is situated next to the high school and Pringle Park in Selkirk.

Children can attend sessions from two years and nine months until primary school, with funded sessions available.

Committee member Hayley Blair told us: “The playgroup follows the curriculum, ensuring children are given the best start in life, and a strong foundation for their progression into school.

“Staff take great pride in offering a nurturing environment where children attending are taking their first steps in the big wide world with the best of support from a fantastic group of play leaders.

“The indoor space offers painting and drawing areas, storybooks, baking and the enclosed outdoor space has its own mud kitchen, space to play and climb and where the children can grow plants and vegetables.

“The children recently took part in a sponsored toddle around the Pringle Park, and they visit the Bield and sing to the residents – always a highlight for all involved – and have an end-of-term trip to Bowhill.

“It’s an exciting, educational and nurturing environment for your little one’s ‘first little steps in the big wide world’.”

For further information, email arguspg@hotmail.com