All eyes were on the beaming smile of this year’s Hawick Cornet, Ali George, at the weekend as he brought the town’s six-week long common riding celebrations to a close.

As the holder of that most prestigious of roles, he has led hundreds of supporters and mounted followers throughout that time, leading up to the culmination of the annual event last Thursday, Friday and Saturday to celebrated the ancient ceremonies so dear to Teries both at home and further afield.

Since his appointment at the start of May, the 24-year-old charged with safeguarding the town’s traditions has been aided by his right and left-hand men, Euan Reilly and Gregor Hepburn, plus acting father Ronnie Frost.

And on Friday morning, the four men led more than 250 horses to the Nipknowes for the main chase and to ride the marches of the burgh’s common before leading the cavalcade to the racecourse then on to the ceremonial dipping of the flag at the Cobble Pool, followed by the evening’s dinner and ball.

Saturday’s early-morning visit to the mote, rideout and races were equally well supported, and rain failed to deter the large crowd that gathered to see Ali, the town’s 301st cornet, return the flag unsullied and untarnished that afternoon.

Delighted with how his time as Hawick’s main man has gone, Ali, a greenkeeper by trade, told the Hawick News: “It was just unreal. It flew by, but I had the time of my life.

“I was completely overwhelmed by the support from the townsfolk. I just enjoyed every minute of it and am gutted it’s all over.

“I was a bit nervous on Friday morning but was excited more than anything, and handing back the flag on Saturday was an emotional moment.

“Thanks to my acting father Ronnie for keeping me right and my left and right-hand men and the lasses for all their support and the marshals who put in a lot of work over the last six weeks.”

He added: “I’ve never ridden at any of the other town’s rides before, so I have Selkirk to look forward to now.”

For Ali’s lass, Katy Moffat, it too has been an unforgettable experience. Her big moment came at Thursday night’s colour-bussing as she took centre stage during the poignant ceremony in the town hall.

“That was one of the more serious parts of the common riding, so it was really nice to have my family and friends involved,” she said. “It went really well.

“I have loved every minute and especially enjoyed getting to watch Ali leading the chase on Friday morning. I was really proud.”

The 22-year-old nursery nurse, of Jedburgh, first followed on horseback at Hawick Common Riding nine years ago, and with her official duties in Hawick now over, she is looking forward to riding with Ali at Jedburgh and Lauder’s festivities later this summer.

Beside Ali, his right-hand man Euan and his lass Lisa McLean and left-hand man Gregor with his lass Lois McCredie every step of the way for the past six weeks were acting father and mother Ronnie and Kerry Frost.

The pair were entrusted with making sure everything was done right and to time.

Ronnie said: “It’s been hectic, very hectic, but also very enjoyable.

“Everything tops everything else as you go on, but getting the banner blue was one of the highlights for me, as well as receiving my badge of office.”

“We had a great turnout of horses and townsfolk every step of the way.”

He added: “I think Ali has done extremely well.

“He really came out of his shell and always had a smile on his face. And Kerry has done really well too and fair enjoyed it all as well.”

Among the highlights of the weekend was undoubtedly Friday morning’s hut, where, opening proceedings, honorary provost Watson McAteer promised the men an “experience never to be forgotten”.

He said: “Today, we have witnessed a young man achieving his dream and a town that is gleaming with pride.

“Our resplendent cavalcade was cheered by townsfolk every inch of the way, arriving in customary fashion here to meet even more folk before entering this simple but powerful unique symbol of our common riding – the hut.

“If it’s your first time in the hut, simply savour, enjoy and take it all in. This will be an experience never to be forgotten.

“If you’ve been here a hundred times before, then just do what you always do and that’s sing your heart out and support our cornet only as Hawick folk can.”

Toasting the cornet in Friday morning’s hut, common riding stalwart Cammy Rudkin described Ali as “one of the best”.

He said: “I knew from day one, you would be a good choice, but you have been like a duck to water.

“You have had that muckle smile on your face since January and the bairns think you are the best thing since sliced bread.

“You are up there with one of the best cornets Hawick has ever had. We are honoured to have you as our cornet for 2017.”

And if Ali had any nerves about addressing the 600-strong crowd in the hut, they were soon dispelled as he asked the men: “Where else would you rather be than in our house, the hut?”

He added: “I’ve had the time of my life. It’s been an absolute pleasure and honour to be your cornet for 2017.”

“I hope I have acted to a good enough standard of what is expected of a cornet.”

He told his supporters: “I only get one go at this, and I want to get it right.” And if their response was anything to go by, he certainly got it right.

Armed police officers will stay at the Scottish Parliament for the time being following a security review in light of UK terror attacks.

Police Scotland deployed officers armed with Tasers at the Parliament after the terrorist attack at Westminster on March 22.

The level of security was then increased to officers with conventional firearms following the atrocity in Manchester and maintained after the latest terrorist attack in London.

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: “Over the last two-and-a-half months, a review of parliamentary security has been completed and a report has been provided to the Scottish Parliament.

“In support of one of the recommendations contained in the report we have made the operational decision to maintain armed police officer presence at the Scottish Parliament on an ongoing basis.

“This is an operational contingency to provide protection and reassurance to the public and staff who attend at the Scottish Parliament. This will hopefully never be needed but demonstrates our ability to respond to any eventuality.

“This decision is proportionate and justified and is in line with the operational response at other devolved legislative assemblies in the UK, and will be reviewed on a quarterly basis in line with our other armed policing standing authorities.

“All communities in Scotland benefit from the protective policing offered by armed response officers and I am currently reviewing how all our armed response officers are deployed across the country to ensure that they are used to their maximum benefit.”

Almost £1m is to be spent on improving five roads near Hawick used by timber traffic, plus another near Tweedsmuir.

That work is being paid for by £590,000 from Forestry Commission Scotland’s strategic timber transport fund, plus £360,000 being chipped in by Scottish Borders Council.

The six stretches of road to be improved are from Shankend Quarry to the C29 junction on the B6399 Hawick-Newcastleton route; , from Redfordgreen to the B709 on the B711 Hawick-Tushielaw road; from the C29-B6399 junction at Berryfell to the A6088 at Hawthornside, south of Hawick; the D1/3 from Roberton to Craik, west of Teviothead; from the D24/3-A7 junction near Northhouse to Priesthaugh Farm, east of Teviothead; and from the D53/1-C8 Talla Road junction to Menzion Forest, near Tweedsmuir.

The works being lined up include edge reconstruction, carriageway strengthening, junction improvements, drainage upgrading and edge widening.

Selkirkshire councillor Gordon Edgar, the council’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, said: “We are delighted to receive almost £600,000 from the strategic timber transport fund.

“With the council’s funding, it means nearly £1m will be invested in these six routes which are vital to the rural communities they serve.

“It will lead to improved road safety, reduce overall damage to the public road network and help sustains local employment and the rural economy.”

The strategic timber transport fund was set up by the Scottish Government in 2005 and is administered by Forestry Commission Scotland.

The six schemes announced in the Borders are among almost 50 nationwide sharing £7.05m funding announced by Scottish Government rural affairs secretary Fergus Ewing on Tuesday.

Mr Ewing, MSP for Inverness and Nairn, said: “Forestry’s continuing £1bn success story will see our timber production rate increase from 7m to 10m tonnes over the next few years, generating significant benefits for our rural economy and providing climate-friendly raw materials, but it is imperative that we bolster this success with efforts to mitigate the impacts of timber lorries on local communities and on the environment.

“This year we have invested an additional £5m in the timber transport fund, a commitment that has encouraged additional investment from seven local authorities and private landowners determined to facilitate forestry’s important role in our rural economy.”

David Sulman, executive director of the UK Forest Products Association and also chairman of the fund’s assessment panel, added: “The considerable interest shown in the fund is extremely heartening.

“It further demonstrates the industry’s responsible approach to timber transport, be it by road, sea or rail.

“The Scottish Government’s financial support is welcomed by all in the supply chain.

“The successful projects will deliver valuable economic, social and environmental benefits for Scotland.”

A call for £3,000 to be spent on installing gates at the entrance and exit to Hawick’s Common Haugh Car Park faces rejection next week.

Hawick Volunteer Flood Group had requested that the gates be installed to deter motorists from using the car park in the event of further flooding hitting the town.

That request was prompted by the group’s claimed that during the floods of December 2015 and January the following year, the car park had become “chaotic and dangerous” due to spectators congregating there.

Hawick’s common good fund sub-committee requested a costing for installing gates, and the bill would be estimated to come to £3,000.

However, when members of the sub-committee meet at the lesser hall at Hawick Town Hall at 4pm on Tuesday, they will be recommended to approve an alternative, cheaper option due to various concerns about installing gates.

The proposal instead is to erect signs saying ‘car park closed’ in such circumstances at a cost of just £300.

That recommendation has disappointed Hawick and Denholm councillor Stuart Marshall, chairman of the volunteer flood group.

A report to the committee states: “In undertaking the request, concerns were expressed over the practicalities of opening and closing the gates during an extreme weather event and the provision of regular maintenance to ensure the gates were in working order, together with the associated funding to maintain that.”

Concerns were also raised that if gates were fitted, the council could be liable for any damage caused to cars unable to exit the car park.

The report adds: “In view of the concerns, Police Scotland, Scottish Borders Council emergency planning officer and the council’s network manager were consulted.

“Their collective response does not support the installation of gates as suggested and recommends the alternative to provide and position ‘car park closed’ signs and road cones at both the entrance and exit to the car park when deemed necessary during a significant flood event.

“The decision to deploy and subsequently remove any signs and cones would be controlled and managed through the council’s emergency planning section and would be built into the current process, picked up during the debrief of the recent storms, to close and manage the footbridges over the River Teviot.

“The operation resource to remove and erect any signs and cones would be undertaken by Scottish Border Council operatives deployed to deal with the emergency flood event taking place.”

Mr Marshall said: “While I fully understand the reasons behind recommending refusal of this proposal that was put forward by the volunteer flood group, I do however feel the group will be extremely disappointed by the decision.

“Whatever the outcome, whether it be signage or cones, it is important that everyone works together to make the Common Haugh a much safer place when such flooding events occur.

“I will be reporting the recommendations at our flood group annual general meeting on Monday, June 26.”

National charity Blue Cross has reminded cat owners to microchip their pets now or risk losing them forever if they stray.

Out of the 5760 cats admitted into the charity’s rehoming centres and hospitals across the country in the past year, 78 per cent were not microchipped.

The charity, dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets, sees all too often how heart-breaking it can be when a beloved pet goes missing without a microchip or with an out-of-date microchip.

Many of the cats brought in to Blue Cross are believed to be stray; although sometimes in a good, healthy condition meaning they’re likely to be a family pet who has gone for a wander.

Caroline Reay, clinical lead at Blue Cross said: “Particularly in the summer months, with cats going out for longer and wandering further, there is a higher risk of straying and of accidents. This is why it’s so important to microchip your cat; even if the cat is an indoor cat as there is still risk of them escaping – in fact, indoor cats are more at risk of getting lost if they do escape. So please, be safe and chip your cats.”

Often un-microchipped stray cats are pets who, after a week of being kept a rehoming centre, end up needing to be rehomed as there is no way of contacting the original owners.

Blue Cross says it has also seen happy cases of reunions after long periods of time because the cat had been microchipped; one cat managed to stray 20 miles away from his home, but thankfully his microchip details were up-to-date, so he was able to be returned to his worried family.

For more information on microchipping, or to donate to help give back to pets in the care of Blue Cross please visit https://www.bluecross.org.uk

Which is taller - the Empire State Building or Mount Everest?

Believe it or not, 41 per cent of Brits in a recent poll said the Empire State Building.

But that’s not the only reason why some are being advised to brush up on their general knowledge.

When provided with a list of both true and false statements about various landmarks around the world, many Britons incorrectly thought that Niagara Falls was the tallest waterfall on Earth, that Blackpool Tower and the Eiffel Tower were the same height and that the Shard is the tallest building in the world.

The quiz, carried out alongside the launch of a new online tool by Hillarys named Homes by Altitude,

asked 2185 Britons aged 18 and over about their knowledge relating to the altitude of various landmarks in comparison to others.

The top 10 most common false statements that Britons believed to be true were:

The Empire State Building is taller than Mount Everest - 41 per cent

The Statue of Liberty is taller than the Eiffel Tower - 39 per cent

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is taller than the Big Ben- 25 per cent

The International Space Station orbits the planet within the Earth’s atmosphere - 22 per cent

Niagara Falls is the tallest waterfall in the world - 20 per cent

Blackpool Tower is the same height & size as the Eiffel Tower - 16 per cent

The Burj Khalifa reaches zero gravity territory on the roof, as it’s so tall - 15 per cent

Long-haul flights fly outside of the Earth’s atmosphere - eight per cent

The Pyramid of Giza is taller than the deepest part of the Atlantic Ocean - six per cent

The Shard is the tallest building in the world - five per cent

Tara Hall, one of the team from Hillarys said: “As impressive as The Shard building is, it’s certainly not the tallest building in the world, nor is the Pyramid of Giza big enough to poke out the top of the Atlantic Ocean in its deepest part!

“It’s definitely time for some to scrub up on their geography and general knowledge.”

While the rest of the world changes, Selkirk Common Riding remains a constant, a centrepoint for the whole community to come together.

That was the view of the Royal and Ancient Burgh’s Provost, Jake Wheelans, following a very successful Friday ride of the marches.

It was a Hail Smilin’ Morn indeed, when Royal Burgh Standard Bearer Kieran Riddell, and Mr Wheelans himself were roused at 4am by Selkirk Flute band before attending the Act of Remembrance at Selkirk War Memorial.

Following the first drum, the sounds of the Silver band could be heard across the town before the foot procession arrived at Victoria Halls for the Bussin’ of the Royal Burgh Flag.

On the balcony, Kieran was sashed and kissed in time-honoured fashion by the Lady Busser, Dilys Wheelans.

She tied the ribbon to the Burgh flag, and said: “I now declare the flag of the Royal and Ancient Burgh to be well and truly bussed for the year 2017.

“I wish Standard Bearer Riddell every success in the execution of his duties. Safe Oot, Safe In.”

Provost Wheelans handed Kieran the iconic flag, saying: “Standard Bearer Riddell, your flag has been well and truly bussed.

“I now charge you to carry it around the marches of our Burgh lands, to Cast your Colours in our ancient market square, and in due course, to return it to me, unsullied and untarnished.

“I wish you, in the time-honoured fashion, Safe Oot, Safe In.”

Kieran replied: “I’d like to thank the Lady Busser in the gracious manner in which she has bussed my flag.”

Speaking to the Provost, he said: “To you sir, I will endeavour to carry out my duties to the best of my ability and to return the flag to you unsullied and untarnished.”

Shortly after, the Silver Band led the procession down to the Ettrick Water, with the skirl of the pipes from Selkirk Pipe Band following.

A large crowd lined the riverside at 7.30am to watch as 292 horses successfully crossed the river, with just one rider coming off his horse.

Despite the grey clouds, the weather remained dry as the riders proceeded up Linglie Glen before reaching the summit of the Three Brethren at around 9am.

Kieran and his attendants, Thomas Willmott, Robbie Reilly, Sam Coltherd and Peter Forrest followed by the Burleymen, then rode back into the town past the Toll where they were greeted by community singing led by the bands.

Each Standard Bearer was a credit to their guilds at the Casting of the Colours in Market Square in front of hundreds of onlookers – the Royal Burgh Standard Bearer Riddell himself taking that first few steps to the podium and casting perfectly setting the scene for the Fleshers’ Darren Hoggan, the Merchants’ Stuart Hogarth, the Hammermen’s Fraser Tough, the Weavers’ Kevin Nicoll, the Colonials’ Martin Murray and the Ex-Soldiers’ Alex Ballantyne.

Kieran told the Southern that the rideout: “Was pretty good, it was fairly solid even though we had a little bit of rain last night and we got across the river it was really good and quite quickly.

“I heard there was a few fallers, a couple of injuries, but you very rarely get away without that.

“I am a little bit upset that it’s all over, but it still hasn’t really hit me yet.

“The rideout was really good as there wasn’t too much wind and it didn’t rain.

“It is very important that we keep up these traditions, they are what makes this town and its people special.

“The rideout is what makes the whole event and without it, this would just be another town.

“It brings people out every year so it is really important to keep up the traditions.”

Provost Wheelans agreed that: “The Royal Burgh Standard Bearer has had an excellent day. It’s not been too warm, but towards the end we had the sun come up and the sun is what makes it excellent casting to all the associations.

“He has returned the flag in the same manner in which he received it this morning, unsullied and untarnished.”

Of the Common Riding, he said: “I think its a big thing that drives the small Borders towns as its a community event, there’s loads of spectators and as long as we uphold these traditions, the rest of the world changes, but Selkirk Common Riding never changes, it’s always the same and I think we are very, very fortunate that the community always comes together.

“Even if you are having problems, the common riding brings the people together.”

Overall the day was a success despite two riders suffering injuries, with one injured shoulder and one injured leg. Duties discharged, the principles and their supporters then went on to enjoy the races at Gala Rig.

Our Facebook Live posts from the Common Riding also attracted viewers from all over the world, with many from Australia, particularly, enjoying the feeds.

Indeed, the exiled Souters enjoyed it so much, they plan to hold their own Common Riding event down under next year.

Others who commented were in New Zealand and Canada. Closer to home, commenters came from Harrogate, Colchester, Edinburgh, Berwick and Hawick.

We’ve long been a nation of pet lovers but new research has revealed how much we really value them as one in five (20 per cent) would consider including their pet on their wedding day.

That’s not all either – 18 per cent confessed that they would leave their cat or dog as a beneficiary in their will, while 7 per cent admitted they would consider having them baptised.

The research from MORE TH>N discovered the more bizarre ways pet owners spoil their four legged friends such as celebrating their birthday (45 per cent), giving them presents (77 per cent) and a cake (33 per cent).

Pet owners are even making social media stars out of their furry friends as 8 per cent admitted to setting up a Facebook, Twitter or Instagram page for their dog or cat, with each of these accounts having an average of 177 followers. Surprisingly 59 per cent said their pet has more followers on social media than them.

The survey by MORE TH>N Pet Insurance surveyed 2,000 cat and dog owners in the UK.

‘Fundamental part of our lives’

“It’s fair to say that, as a nation, our beloved pets have never played a bigger part in our everyday lives,” says Gail Parker, marketing director at MORE TH>N.

“Above and beyond seeing them as a member of the family, the fact that so many people are going as far to include them in their wills and on their wedding day is testament to how fundamental a part of our lives they’ve become.”

“At the same time however, it remains important to appreciate that, however much we love them, they will undoubtedly have their own needs when it comes to the way we treat them, which is our new Pet Peeves video sets out to portray in a fun, tongue-in-cheek way – I’m sure all owners will be able to relate, one way or another!”

At least two major supermarkets have cut the price of forecourt fuel from today (Friday).

The decision by Asda to cap the cost of unleaded and diesel at 111.7p a litre was followed by Sainsbury’s ordering a similar 2p drop in their prices, with Tesco and Morrisons following suit.

The decision follows criticism from motoring organisations last week as petrol retailers were accused of failing to pass on savings to the UK’s 33 million drivers despite the cost of oil tumbling to a five week low of $47.15 a barrel.

Asda’s Head of Petrol Trading Dave Tyrer said: “Our new national price cap of 111.7ppl on both unleaded and diesel will be welcomed by the millions of drivers who be starting to plan their summer holidays.”

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “This is excellent news for motorists. But it’s particularly good to see a major supermarket reducing the price of diesel in line with petrol as the wholesale costs of both fuels are currently very similar.

“Motorists should now be able to fill up for less and make the most of the weekend’s fantastic summer weather.”

Luke Bosdet, AA spokesman, added: “UK average petrol prices have been stuck at around 116.5p a litre for the past six weeks and drivers were wondering when they were going to see the benefit of lower oil prices.”

Spending the proverbial penny is about to cost 30 times that much as a £200,000 programme to install charging machines at 27 public toilets across the Borders gets under way.

Scottish Borders Council agreed to start charging 30p a time to spend a penny back in January, and work has now started to install the automated coin machines across the region.

A council spokesman said: “Charging units are being installed throughout June, with charging starting immediately after the unit is in place.

“Signage will be in place to advise users of the new arrangement.”

The decision to bring in fees was taken due to ongoing pressure on council budgets.

The council is also inviting community groups to consider taking over the running of public conveniences.

Such community partnerships would see responsibility for the toilets transferred to other organisations for them to operate.

A further initiative, dubbed a comfort scheme, is inviting businesses such as hotels, pubs or shops to offer their toilet facilities for the public to use for free in return for money from the council.

Galashiels councillor Sandy Aitchison, the authority’s executive member for neighbourhoods and locality services, said: “We are really keen to engage with community councils, local groups, businesses and others in the community who are interested in getting involved in either a comfort scheme or community partnership.

“Being involved can bring real benefits to your business or organisation. If involved in a comfort scheme, there would be a regular payment from the council, while a community partnership could generate income by charging for usage of its facility.”

“By providing a valuable service to your local community, you will receive positive publicity with your facility being advertised on Scottish Borders Council’s website and on social media.

“It could also potentially provide more trade for your business or facility through people using the toilet then going on to buy products from you.

For more information, visit www.scotborders.gov.uk/publictoilets

The public toilets that will start charging 30p a visit from this month include those at Coldingham Sands, Coldstream’s courthouse car park, Briery Baulk in Duns, Earlston bus station, Eyemouth’s Bantry car park and harbour, Innerleithen’s Hall Street, Jedburgh’s Lothian Park and tourist information centre, Kelso’s Shedden Park and Woodmarket, the Avenue in Lauder, Melrose’s Abbey Place, Newcastleton’s Langholm Street, Selkirk’s Market Place, St Abbs Harbour, St Mary’s Loch in the Yarrow Valley and Main Street in St Boswells.

Charges are also being brought in at the toilets at School Brae, Kingsmeadows and Eastgate in Peebles; High Street, Bank Streetand the transport interchange at Galashiels; and Volunteer Park, Howegate and the Common Haugh in Hawick.

The toilets at Broughton, Burnmouth, Chirnside, Cockburnspath, Denholm, Greenlaw, Kelso’s Croft Road, Morebattle, Melrose’s Greenyards, Newtown, Selkirk’s Scott’s Place, Stow, Town Yetholm and West Linton will remain free to use.

When taking your dog for a country ramble, you should follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and here are just a few simple rules to follow.

Around livestock make sure your dog is under control and on a short lead. If you do have to walk through a field with livestock then keep as far away as possible and ensure that your dog does not cause any sort of stress to the animals.

If cattle become aggressive then keep calm, let the dog go and take the safest route out of the field.

Never let your dog worry livestock. Apart from the serious risk of injury from dog bites, farm animals may not survive the stress or exhaustion of a relentless dog chase.

Pregnant cows or sheep may lose their calves or lambs if chased and your dog could end up being shot by the farmer.

Never take your dog into a field with any young animals, even if there is a right of way. Look for alternative routes where your dog will not cause any stress to livestock.

Cows with young calves to protect can be extremely aggressive and may cause injuries to you or your dog.

Only walk in crop fields that have a clear path or right of way or a field margin that has not been planted.

When walking in the country always make sure you pick up your dog’s faeces and take it with you until you find a suitable bin.

Between April and July remember that there could be ground nesting birds on moorlands, grasslands, forests and shore lines. Keep your dog to heel or on a short lead to avoid disturbing the birds.

For more information on the right to roam in Scotland go to www.outdooraccess-scotland.com.

On the English side of the Tweed, there are different access rules and it is advisable to keep to public footpaths, which are mostly marked with green signs, or designated Open Access areas.

Yetholm Loch is a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve about one and a half miles from Town Yetholm and eight miles from Kelso along the B6352, there is a narrow road to Lochside and along this road is a small parking area for the reserve.

From this car park there is a good path which ends at a large wooden hide overlooking the loch and an ideal spot to sit, relax and observe the wildlife.

At any time of the year Yetholm Loch is a great place for a spot of birdwatching as it attracts lots of ducks and other water fowl.

On a recent visit several Mute Swans were sitting on their large nests and some of the male swans were frequently displaying with their wings raised and making short noisy flights as they tried to drive away their neighbours in disputes over territories.

Large rafts of Mallard appeared half asleep, most were drakes whose breeding season had ended. Occasionally a female with ducklings could be seen amongst the vegetation at the edge of the open water.

Yetholm Loch is a good place to see Gadwall, this duck is not common in the Borders, it resembles a female Mallard and binoculars and patience will be required to sort it out from the mallards especially if there is bright sunshine which can make all the ducks look almost black.

Tufted Duck and Shoveler also frequent the loch and the Little Grebes can be spotted diving in their search for small fish.

Amongst the vegetation along the shore Reed Buntings and Sedge Warblers nest and if you sit and watch them you may see them taking food to their young.

At the south end of the reserve is an extensive willow carr which visitors are requested not to enter in the bird breeding season.

Unfortunately, Yetholm Loch and this willow carr is highly eutrophic, that is, it is very rich in nutrients, probably from run off from the surrounding agricultural fields. The willow carr is dominated by the very coarse Reed Canary Grass, Phalaris arundinacea, which thrives in this nutrient rich environment to the exclusion of most small, attractive, marsh flowers.

From the car park to the bird hide is a stretch of mature woodland consisting of very large, old willows, poplars and even Horse Chestnut. Some of those trees have fallen over and the resulting jungle is an ideal spot for fungi.

On the recent visit an amazing, young, fresh specimen of the Chicken of the Woods fungus was found growing out of a willow trunk, it really stood out as it was bright orange – yellow, from the distance I thought is was a crumpled plastic bag!

Scotland’s most vibrant celebration of farming, food and rural life - the Royal Highland Show - gets underway at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh, on Thursday (June 22).

The four-day event is an unmissable spectacle that last year welcomed a record 189,000 visitors and generated £47m for the Scottish economy.

Over 6,000 farmyard animals, the largest showcase of Scotland’s finest food and drink and four days of equestrian excellence attracting the country’s most accomplished riders, are just a few of the many attractions on offer.

Voted ‘a great day out’ by 68% of visitors, the Royal Highland Show is where rural skills are brought to life and visitors soak up the sights and sounds of the countryside.

With children 15 and under visiting for free, the Royal Highland Show, is where 30,000 young people are welcomed with a dedicated programme of activities designed to stimulate and educate. Run by the Royal Highland Education Trust the RHET Discovery Centre is a must-visit for families.

The Show is also a valuable opportunity where farmers and producers meet consumers to gain valuable feedback. It all takes place in Scotland’s Larder Live where tasting is encouraged and new favourites discovered. In the cookery theatre, Scotland’s chefs demonstrate how unforgettable meals can be created using quality ingredients … and a little imagination.

For those who believe no day out is complete without retail therapy, the Show will not disappoint. From fashion to home wear, jewellery to furniture, pet accessories to arts and crafting … it simply is a shopper’s paradise.

The 2017 Show also sees the continuation of the Royal Highland Show Food Charter launched in 2014. Working alongside on-site caterers, the Show has devised a strict food charter that all food-to-go outlets must adhere to. The charter requires that only ingredients that have been locally produced and ethically sourced be served at the Show. This ensures that quality is high and Scottish farmers and growers are supported, wherever possible.

The Highland’s big attraction is without doubt the high-quality livestock - with more than 5,000 of the finest cattle, sheep, goats and horses, not to mention poultry, heading for the showground. With generations of careful breeding, years of expert husbandry and months of meticulous preparation, the animals are world class and represent the finest in stockmen’s skills - a win at the Highland has been proven to increase demand and the value of the award-winning stock.

With the Clydesdale the featured native breed for this year’s Royal Highland Show advertising campaign, the gentle giants are always a focal point.

The Royal Highland Show, the best of farming, food and rural life takes place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, from Thursday, June 22, to Sunday, June 25.

Forty per cent of dog attacks on sheep are carried out by straying or unaccompanied dogs, according to results from the latest National Sheep Association (NSA) survey.

The survey taken part in by sheep farmers from across the UK shows no let-up in this ongoing crime which continues to plight sheep welfare, businesses and livelihoods.

A total of 72% of respondents said dog owners assuming their pet won’t do any damage to livestock was behind most attacks; 62% said a lack of concern from pet owners led to attacks taking place; 40% said attacks they had witnessed were carried out by stray or unaccompanied dogs; 26% said they’re most commonly alerted to an attack by individuals who are not directly involved.

NSA chief executive Phil Stocker says: “Domestic dogs attacking sheep is sadly an ongoing crime without an easy solution, but to keep talking about it and gathering evidence at every opportunity goes a long way in continuing to highlight the problem. It’s vital for dog owners to realise any dog, no matter how well trained, is capable of attacking livestock and the effects stretch far further than the initial and obvious injuries.”

Totals of 63% and 67% respectively highlighted death and injury as the most common impact of a dog attack, but 45% said dog attacks were causing a loss of production, most commonly abortion in ewes and 43% reported that sheep had to be put down in the months after an attack. Also, 39% said sheep had experienced an injury from fleeing out of control dogs while 38% experienced a loss of production in lambs due to mis-mothering at a young age.

Police figures continue to highlight a rise in the number of reported dog attacks on sheep, but NSA believes the true extent of the problem is much higher. Just 40% of survey respondents said they report every incident to the police, of which just 18% and 17% were given a crime reference number or crime incident number as a result.

Survey results can be found at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/dog-owners

Calls for the Borders Railway to be extended into England via Hawick have been boosted by a new report revealing the positive impact the line is having on employment and tourism.

An independent study commissioned by Transport Scotland and the Borders Railway Blueprint Group shows the 30-mile railway is attracting tourists, homeowners and workers to the region.

The report also confirms that the £350m track is continuing to prove popular among Borderers, with passenger numbers for Tweedbank, Galashiels and Stow train stations all being higher than predicted.

Mid Berwickshire councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for economic development, said: “This report is further proof that the railway is having a hugely positive impact on the Borders.

“The study shows the railway was a key factor for many tourists choosing to visit the Borders, while more local people are using the service than predicted for work, leisure and education.

“There is also evidence of the railway positively impacting on people’s choice of where to live.

“While these figures are encouraging, there are still improvements which can be made, and the council will continue to work with partners in the Borders Railway Blueprint Group to deliver a range of economic benefits.

“This includes encouraging businesses to take advantage of the many development opportunities available in the region which have been opened up to a greater audience by the railway.

“Now we have started to see tangible benefits to some parts of the Borders from the railway, it is vital we now explore if we can extend these benefits to other areas, such as Hawick and beyond.

“Extended rail could be a huge boost here, so we welcome Transport Scotland’s feasibility study into extending the line to Carlisle ,and we will work hard to develop the strongest possible case for expansion.”

The report, based on a survey of more than 1,300 people in November and December, was carried out by Peter Brett Associates to assess the success of the Edinburgh-Tweedbank line a year on from its opening in September 2015.

It reveals that almost two-thirds of tourists questioned cited the rail line as a factor in their decision to make their trip and nearly a quarter stated that they would not have made the trip were it not for the line.

Passenger numbers are higher than forecast at all Borders stations and lower than predicted at all Midlothian stations, it reports.

Scottish Government transport minister Humza Yousaf said: “The reopening of the Borders Railway was a momentous occasion for residents along its route, bringing with it economic, education and employment opportunities.

“This independent report provides solid evidence that the communities along the line are beginning to feel the benefit of our investment.

“The route’s popularity was already undisputed, and we will continue to work with all the blueprint group members to ensure that it continues to act as a catalyst for further social and economic regeneration.”

Danny Cusick, chairman of the blueprint group, said: “This has been a very thorough study, and it provides us with valuable insights into how the line is helping the whole region.

“There’s also a lot we can learn as we progress our shared efforts to maximise the economic, environmental and social benefits of the line.

“We are determined to build on this success further in coming years to establish the Borders Railway region as an excellent location for business, living, leisure and learning.”

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, added: “From breathtaking historic attractions to unique shops, accommodation and eateries, visitors have been hopping on board the Borders Railway in their thousands to experience all that Edinburgh, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders have to offer.

“The fact that nearly a quarter of tourists surveyed said they wouldn’t have visited the Scottish Borders if the line hadn’t reopened demonstrates exactly why the Borders Railway has been such great news for tourism.

“Scotland’s reputation as a quality destination relies on continued investment and innovation to ensure that current provision meets future demand, and the success of the Borders Railway shows just how important this is.

“It has had a massive impact on the local economy since it was reopened and has helped to shine a global spotlight on all the regions it serves.”

The new report follows Transport Scotland’s announcement in April that extending the Borders Railway by 56 miles into Cumbria will be one of the options considered by an ongoing study looking at improving transport provision in the south of the country.

Two women suffering from heat exhaustion were rescued by Border Search and Rescue Unit members on the Pennine Way south of Yetholm on Saturday.

Crew members were just setting off home from Kelso after a helicopter training exercise at Charterhall airfield, near Greenlaw in Berwickshire, when they were alerted to the plight of the pair, both in their 50s, by police.

The walkers, said to be unable to continue after reaching Windy Gyle, were part of a party of 10 which had set off that morning from Langleeford, south west of Wooler in Northumberland, to take part in a charity walk.

Navigational errors resulted in the pair ending up on the hillside on one of the hottest days of the year so far for much longer than anticipated, said a spokesman for the unit.

He added: “The group was carrying just a single map and, after a disagreement, they split up, with two descending on the Scottish side of the border, the two casualties and a friend hunkering down on the ridge and the remaining five continuing to their start-point on the English side.”

The women were taken to the Border Hotel in Yetholm to be checked over by Scottish Ambulance Service staff.

They were suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion, but after rehydration and rest, they were able to return home.

“It was a pretty straightforward job for us,” said team leader Stuart Fuller Shapcott.

“The excellent ground conditions meant that were able to get a vehicle very close to where it was needed, allowing a very simple evacuation.

“The callout demonstrates perfectly a couple of the cardinal rules of heading into the hills – carry a map and know how to use it.

“Just as mountain weather can be dangerous in the winter, a long day on the hills in the height of summer can be just as risky.

“Heat injury is a much under-estimated hazard and can be just as lethal as hypothermia. The onset can be sudden and symptoms can develop faster.

“When heading into the hills in the summer, it is essential that you carry enough water, loose light clothing, a sun-hat and sunblock.”

Scotland and Melrose rugby legend Doddie Weir has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).

The former British and Irish Lion, who earned 61 caps for Scotland, announced his diagnosis to raise awareness of the condition for Global MND Awareness Day.

Doddie, who lives in the Borders with his wife Kathy and three sons, is a keen supporter of Melrose, it’s rugby, festivals and traditions and is an award-winning after-dinner speaker famed for his flamboyant tartan suits.

He has now vowed to join forces with researchers in a quest to help tackle the disease.

He said: “Over the past few months a number of friends and family have raised concerns surrounding my health.

“I think then, that on this day set to help raise awareness of the condition, I should confirm that I too have Motor Neurone Disease. I should like to take this opportunity to thank the National Health Service in recognising then diagnosing this, as yet, incurable disease.

“I am currently on holiday in New Zealand with Kathy and the boys and when we return, I will devote my time towards assisting research and raising awareness and funds to help support fellow sufferers.

“There are plans in place to create a charitable foundation to help in any way we can and we will share these details with you after our family trip.”

Doddie is now supporting researchers in their quest to better understand the disease, in the hope that it will eventually lead to new therapies. MND is a progressive disease which occurs when specialised nerve cells, which usually transmit messages from the brain and spinal cord, break down. This leads to paralysis and difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing. There are no therapies that can stop its progression and little is known about why the disease strikes.

Doddie Weir has pledged his support for research at the Euan MacDonald Centre, a Scotland- wide research initiative based at the University of Edinburgh.

Ranked among the top universities in the world The Centre was set up in 2007 by Donald MacDonald, a leading Scottish businessman, and his son Euan, who was diagnosed with MND in 2003.

The Centre supports and undertakes cutting-edge research into MND as well as training the next generation of research leaders. 

The former second-row and No. 8 forward follows in the footsteps of another rugby legend in his support for the Centre. South Africa’s Joost Van Der Westhuizen visited the Centre in 2013 to share knowledge and expertise.

Van Der Westhuizen – who was an opponent of Doddie’s in the 1990s – also had MND and passed away in 2017.

Professor Siddharthan Chandran, director of the Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, said: “We are immensely grateful to Doddie for his support at this difficult time for him and his family. Working in partnership with other researchers and charities such as MND Scotland, our goal is to bring forward the day when there are effective treatments for this very tough condition.” 

Couples face an average bill of £800 each time they attend a wedding, according to a survey on the wider costs associated with tying the knot.

The new Nationwide Current Accounts research, which polled 2000 adults who have attended a wedding, follows an inaugural survey in 2015.

It shows that the average cost per person of attending a wedding - from the stag and hen party, buying gifts and clothes, and attending the ceremony – is just over £400. This represents a modest £23 increase since the 2015 survey.

But with many guests attending multiple ceremonies, saying yes could cost them much more.

The significant financial outlay is given as the reason why a quarter of people (25 per cent) have declined a wedding invitation, while around one in six (16 per cent) have become overdrawn or borrowed money to be able to attend.

The survey shows male wedding guests spend £21 more than female wedding guests, £411 compared to £391. However, women are catching up, having increased their overall spend by £38 since Nationwide’s 2015 survey, while men spend only £8 more.

The cost of attending a wedding can be broken down into two elements – pre-wedding celebrations and the ceremony itself.

Pre-wedding celebrations

The poll shows those who take part in the stag or hen do spend an additional £153, with over a quarter (27 per cent) spending more than £200 per occasion.

However, stags still spend more than hens (£171 vs £134) partying, possibly as they tend to go further afield, with double the amount of men celebrating abroad compared to women (12 per cent vs 6 per ent).

Although, the traditional local night out on the town (41 per cent) remains the most popular choice.

Since 2015, those aged 25 to 34 have overtaken the 18 to 24 age group as spending the most, at £217 compared to £199 (£18 more), with the amount still steadily declining as people reach 55 and over, where it more than halves to an average of £104.

The wedding ceremony

Nationwide’s research shows guests are spending an average of £249 on the wedding day itself - £28 more than in 2015.

This includes paying for new outfits, gifts, travel, hotel stays and drinks.

However, almost a quarter (22 per cent) spend over £300.

Since 2015, women have overtaken men as the biggest wedding day spenders, at £257 compared to £241 for men.

Younger guests - those aged 18 to 24 - still spend the least (£141), while those aged over 55 spend the most on attending the wedding ceremony (£301).

When it comes to gifts, people in Northern Ireland are the most generous, spending £64, while people in Wales are the least generous spending £24 less (£40).

The younger age groups are also less generous, spending £30 less than those aged over 55 (£29 compared to £59).

The North East (£486 in 2017 vs £399 in 2015) overtakes Northern Ireland (£455 in 2017 vs £476 in 2015) as the biggest overall spenders, while the South West still spends the least (£356 in 2017 vs £308 in 2015).

This represents a £130 gap between the highest spending region and lowest.

Phil Smith, Nationwide’s Head of Current Accounts, said: “Sharing a loved one’s special day is a wonderful experience.

“But buying a gift, finding something to wear, travelling to the wedding and staying overnight can add up, especially if you’re going as a couple, or to more than one wedding in a short period.

“There are plenty of ways to cut costs though, such as buying a wedding gift in the sales, recycling your outfit and sharing travel costs.

“Also, putting a small amount of money away each week can help manage the overall cost.”

Excellent turnouts and glorious weather blessed each and every event of Yetholm Festival week.

Bari Gadgi Joseph Mallen and Bari Manushi Amberlie Allan were the principals tasked with leading last week’s games, competitions and social evenings.

And on Wednesday night, 129 riders followed the pair to Stob Stanes to see Stuart Smith carry on the tradition started in 1983 by his father Tom, of reading a poem and inviting each rider to dust the stone with petals while making a wish.

He said: “It is written in our history that gypsy kings were crowned on this very spot, and this area is steeped in history and traditions with ancient customs, signs, ceremonies, rights and rituals.

“Be aware that such is the power of this ancient site that you will be drawn back here in years to come.”

He read the traditional Stob Stanes poem before urging riders to “make your wishes with due reverence”.

John McFee was the youngest rider, and the best-turned-out prizes went to Imogen Gillie and Poppi Shepherd.

On Saturday, 1,000 ducks raced down the Bowmont Water, marking the annual duck race’s 30th anniversary.

Children displayed their artistic talents in the form of handmade boats and decorated ducks before enjoying an afternoon of sports and entertainment in the park.

The Bari Gadgi said: “Everybody was chuffed with Wednesday’s turnout. We had visiting principals from Kelso, Duns and Coldstream, which was great, and I saw parts of Yetholm I don’t think I had ever seen before. Every event was really well supported.

“The weather certainly helps, and everybody enjoyed themselves at the family day.”

Festival chairwoman Susan Stewart said: “Thank you to everyone in the village for their support throughout a sun-filled week.

“Joseph and Amberlie were so enthusiastic, and their fabulous smiles were noted and commented on by many throughout the week.”

Full Festival Week results were as follows:-

Ladies Darts - Beth Hamer

Runner up - Anne Yeomans

Quiz Nigaht winning team - Bettys Crew

Mixed Darts Winner Raymond Yeomans and Nicola Collin

Runner Up Jonathan and Zoe Keddie Dixon

Dominoes winner - Zoe Keddie- Dixon

Runner Up- Marilyn Stormont

Mens darts winner - John Scott

Runner Up - Barry Morrison

Car Treasure Hunt - Murray’s Crew

Quoits Winner - Singles – Kevin Richardson. Runner Up – Dougie Hope

Pairs – Winner -Wullie Mallen and Cameron Coulson. Runner Up – Tommy Grieve and Ian Currie

Pool Competition winner - Kelly Bonnington Runner Up Ewan Cameron

Le Boule winners - Barry Morrison, Mick and Helen Younger

Runners Up - Amberlie Allan, Denise and Steve Allan

Beetle Drive Adult Winner – Sarah Butler, Runner Up – Barry Morrison

Child Winner – Alex Redpath, Runner Up – Emma Smail

Best Drawn Beetle – Harry Hamer

Stob Stanes rideout:

Youngest Rider - John McFee

Best Turned Out Horse and Rider under 16 - Imogen Gillie

Best Turned Out Horse and Rider Overall - Poppi Shepherd

Oldest Rider - Doug Redpath

Ex-principal Trophy - Fraser Hastie

Family day:

Duck Race winners: 1 Ian Blain; 2 Pippa Rollinson and 3 Lucy Younger

Best Boat – Jack Lee

Boat race- 1 Callie Cameron; 2 Abigail Butler and 3 Josh Dickson.

Best Dressed Duck - Shannon Cruddas (P3)

30th Anniversary Duck Race - Ellwood Cooper

All Round Personality -Boy - Jack Lee and girl- Orla Thomson

Patrons Cup - James Hastie

Young adults are twice as likely to suffer from hay fever as those aged over 54, according to new research.

The study showed that almost half of those those aged 16 to 24 (48 per cent) have experienced a seasonal allergy, such as hay fever or an allergy to pollen.

Sales of allergy products increased by 5.6 per cent in the UK from 2015 to 2016 to reach £133.7 million.

Researchers found 47 per cent of those aged 25 to 34 have experienced a seasonal allergy in the past year, compared to just one in four (25 per cent) of those aged 55 and over.

London is Britain’s current hay fever hotpsot with 46 per cent of people who live in the capital having experienced a seasonal allergy in the past year, compared to a national average of 39 per cent.

Those in need of respite from red eyes and a streaming nose should head to the North East, North West, South East or East Anglia where just 35 per cent of residents in each of these regions have experienced a seasonal allergy in the past year.

Of those who have experienced a seasonal allergy in the past year, more than half (58 per cent) have experienced a stuffy or runny nose, 57 per cent have suffered sneezing and 47 per cent have been plagued with itchy or watery eyes.

But while around a third of people (32 per cent) choose to treat seasonal allergies, one in four (26 per cent) prefer to suffer in silence.

But almost half of hay fever sufferers (47 per cent) keep track of pollen levels during the pollen season.

Lucy Cornford, head of beauty and personal care at Mintel, said: “Young adults are the most likely to have experienced an allergy in the last year, which may be due to first-time development or greater awareness of an existing allergy, in contrast to older adults who may have learned to avoid certain triggers.

“Climate change looks to be increasing instances of seasonal allergies in the UK, with warmer weather causing trees and grass to flower early, releasing more pollen and elongating the hay fever season.

“But, whilst it could be considered that those living in the countryside may be more likely to be affected, high levels of air pollution within cities - and London in particular - is only serving to exacerbate hay fever symptoms for city and town dwellers.”

But pollen isn’t the only non-food allergy to bug Brits, according to the research.

In the last 12 months, almost one in six (17 per cent) have suffered from an allergy to dust mites, while 14 per cent have suffered from an allergy to household or personal care products such as detergents and toiletries, and 13 per cent are allergic to pets.

Almost two-third of those who are allergic to household and personal care products (62 per cent) check the ingredients of these products for allergens.

Around half of all non-food allergy sufferers (49 per cent) have changed their lifestyle to avoid allergens, while 39 per cent of those who have experienced a non-food allergy in the last 12 months search online for information about their allergy, rising to 51 per cent among those under 35.

Under-35s have a significantly higher level of non-food allergies than their older counterparts with 28 per cent having experienced an allergy to dust mites, and 23 per cent an allergy to household or personal care products.

Ms Cornfood added: “While they are the most likely to suffer from non-food allergies, young adults with allergies are more likely to seek online information than other age groups, but this may expose them to a confusing array of information, as well as lead to potential issues in regard to self-diagnosis and treatment.

“An app that asks about the symptoms suffered alongside tracking activity and food intake, as well as the ability to scan barcodes in order to log the ingredients of personal care or household care products used, could help sufferers to more accurately identify allergy triggers and seek relevant treatment.”