A challenging day lay in store for Team Borders in Race Two of the East District Cross-Country League on Saturday, shorn as they were of no less than five of their top finishers from Race One.

Across the Clackmananshire Bridge and on the approach to Alloa, those who had made the journey north of the Forth were taken by surprise by the one centimetre covering of snow.

Despite missing their top-placed runner from Race One in October, Team Borders Under-11 Boys team rallied to secure second place on the day and retain their place at the top of league. Fionn Hollingsbee (Moorfoot) had a fantastic and much-improved run to take third place over the 1.7km hilly course, finishing in 6 minutes 39 seconds. Chirnside’s Zico Field was another improver taking ninth in 6.55 and Ross Christie (Gala) completed the team score with his 15th place in 7.02. Danny Lancaster (Moorfoot) who provided good back-up finished 16th.

That gave the boys a total of 27 team points. Overall, going into the third and final League race in January, Team Borders hold a narrow reduced lead of five points over Aberdeen with Perth further back in third.

The Under-11 girls Sophie Logan (Moorfoot), Jessica Hendry (Gala) and Lola Lockyer (Moorfoot) provided team points with eighth place.

In the U13 girls, Moorfoot trio of Christina McGorum (20th in 13.14), Esme Minto (26th in 13.36) and Holly Hobbs (27th in 13.41) secured 6th place and 5th overall.

There was another individual podium place in the U13 Boys’ race courtesy of Euan Christie (Gala) who was home in 11.16 for an excellent 3rd place. Patrick Cannon (Moorfoot) in 28th and Cameron Rankine (Gala) in 31st completed the team points for 7th on the day and 4th overall.

The girls’ combined U17/U15 finished 4th. Beth Hobbs (12th in 16.50), Mairi Wallace (19th in 17.34) and Charlotte Morrison (39th in 19.17). The girls drop to 2nd overall behind the clear league leaders Edinburgh.

In the U17 Men’s race Yousuf Khursheed secured the top individual place of the day (2nd) in 22.38. Lewis Tharme 24.19 (16th) and James Logan 25.43 (26th).

A tough day at the office for Team Borders but hopes are still alive of a possible league title and several team podium finishes, come January’s third and final race.

A Galashiels man who was in possession of almost £5000 worth of heroin has been jailed for almost 10 months at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Samuel Wightman (51), admitted possession of the class A drug with intent to supply.

The court heard how police obtained information about heroin being in Galashiels and went to an insecure caravan in the Langlee Road area of the town in June last year. Discovered in a light fitting was 49 grammes of heroin with a street value of £4900.

The caravan owner – who has since died – denied any knowledge of the drugs and it emerged Wightman used the vehicle for storing tools.

Ed Hulme, defending, accepted it was a large quantity of drugs, but claimed it was only a technical breach of the supply charge.

He insisted Wightman had entered into a mutual arrangement with a friend – not the caravan owner – to buy the drugs in bulk to supply each other, saying it made “financial sense” as they both smoked heroin.

Mr Hulme pointed out that his client did not have any drug-related previous convictions.

Wightman, of Glendinning Terrace, had his jail sentence reduced from 12 months to 293 days due to his guilty plea.

Speaking after the sentencing, Community Inspector Tony Hodges, said: “The misuse of drugs and the resulting anti-social behaviour is a matter of concern for our communities.

“This custodial sentence demonstrates how seriously the criminal justice system takes the issue.

“I would encourage members of our community to continue to report those involved in the supply of controlled drugs to police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The Scottish Borders was strongly represented at the Scottish MTB awards in Glasgow which welcomed over 150 guests representing the best that Scotland has to offer in mountain biking.

The Tweed Valley had an outstanding number of nominations across the board. The nominations for businesses based in the Tweed valley included; The Tontine Hotel, Air Maidens, Ridelines, Dirt School, Veloeye and Enduro World Series all receiving nominations across various categories.

The local rider nominations included Isla Short who has had some amazing results on the world cup XC circuit along with Grant Fergusson who has had another impressive season racing world cup XC and reigning British XC champion. Peebles based Mark Scott was also nominated on the back of a hugely impressive Enduro World Series season.

In the end all three of the awards decided on by public vote went to Tweed Valley nominees. Mountain Bike Rider of the Year went to locals Katy Winton and Lewis Buchanan – who both race for Trek Factory Racing in the Enduro World Series. The Scottish Mountain Bike Event of the year was once again won by the Tweedlove Bike Festival. A well-loved celebration of all forms and abilities of cycling in the Tweed Valley.

Neil Dalgleish from Tweedlove said, “It’s fantastic to have brought home the trophy for best event of the year again…it’s brilliant to have won two years in a row.

“Thanks go to everyone who supported us, all our crew and the fabulous volunteers – TweedLove is a Tweed Valley team effort. Roll on 2018, and an even better year of riding bikes and good times.”

Cleikum Mill in Innerleithen won the MTB Friendly Accommodation provider of the year. With less than a year in business, it was an impressive result for a business that has embraced mountain bikers with all the facilities that they could look in an overnight stay.

Graham Adcock from Cleikum Mill, believes the success is down to the hard work of his team, adding: “We are so lucky to have such great biking routes in the Tweed Valley. Guests love coming to the area, some have returned two or three times in one season.”

An independent panel is being set up to provide expert advice to ensure the Scottish Government’s named person service is workable.

The Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) Practice Development Panel will lead the development of a code of practice, statutory guidance and other support materials for people working with children and families.

It will be chaired by Ian Welsh, who is Chief Executive of the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland and is due to complete its work by the end of next year.

John Swinney, Deputy First Minister, said: “I want every child in Scotland to get the best possible start in life, but too many families struggle to navigate the support available to help children thrive.

“This independent panel will draw on the experience and expertise of people working with children and families to develop a workable, comprehensive and user friendly code of practice, statutory guidance and other support materials that take account of new data protection laws – bringing clarity and certainty on this important issue.”

A Hawick councillor fears the town could lose out on the potential benefits of the much-heralded Borderlands deal.

In last week’s UK government Budget the chancellor Philip Hammond pledged his commitment to begin detailed negotiations on how to give the economies of five cross-border local authorities a boost.

The Borderlands initiative brings together Scottish Borders Council, Carlisle City Council, Cumbria County Council, Dumfies and Galloway Council and Northumberland County Council to promote economic growth and competitiveness on the Scotland-England border.

But despite the apparently positive progress, Councillor Davie Paterson, independent for Hawick and Hermitage, believes the area he represents will see little benefit from the initiative.

It’s not a view shared by fellow ward independent councillor Watson McAteer, who predicts the deal will add to the impetus for an extension of the Borders Railway to Hawick and Carlisle.

The detail of the partners’ proposals to the UK and Scottish governments is confidential and further information has not yet been released.

Mr Paterson believes the ‘devil is in the detail’ and has called on Scottish Borders Council leader Shona Haslam to share some of the specifics of the plans, while fearing there is going to be “virtually nothing for anywhere south of Tweedbank” and “a power grab by the Central Borders”.

He said: “We can all remember when the Scottish Cabinet met in Hawick in 2013 when the idea of a Borderlands Initiative was first mooted to try and help the people of the Borders that would not necessarily benefit from the Edinburgh City Deal.

“I heard in the Budget from the chancellor that there was going to be growth with the Borderlands Initiative but no mention of where the growth was going to be.

“The Tory council leader has obviously seen all the documentation, if so could she please say in any of the draft documentation where the growth was going to be south of Tweedbank.

“I don’t think that there is anything of any substance being planned for Hawick or Newcastleton I am certain that the people of Hawick and Newcastleton would love to know.

“I have always said that some areas that I represent will not see any economic benefit from the Edinburgh City Deal and that money should be made available for the rural areas like Selkirk, Hawick or Newcastleton. When I read about investing in hubs will this mean that Central Borders? Will these benefits be at the cost of all other areas in the Borders.””

Mr Paterson’s view is the polar opposite of Mr McAteer, who said: “I am absolutely delighted to see the Borderlands initiative raised during the chancellor’s Budget speech. This gives the green light for significant cross border collaboration that will develop and grow our economic base. I believe this will also provide the much needed impetus for the extension of the Borders Railway to Hawick and on to Carlisle.”

Councillor Haslam has warmly welcomed the announcement, saying it will bring “sustainable economic growth”, adding: “The announcement is an important next step towards achieving potentially significant funding for the region.

“For the Scottish Borders, the Borderlands Initiative, the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal and the development of the South of Scotland Enterprise Agency can all help to support and drive inclusive growth, investment and improved infrastructure.”

The Borderlands Initiative is focusing on several key themes, including: digital technology; innovation; low carbon; and energy. The approach is based on existing physical and infrastructure connections, and transport and connectivity are at the heart of the partners’ proposals, linking the opportunities that can be created and informing future projects.

Clair Ramage, SNP for Hawick and Denholm, said she was “heartened” by the development, saying: “I am heartened to see that yet again the Conservatives can recognise a good initiative when they see it.

“Alex Salmond, in 2013, recognised that the Borders were being marginalised by the Westminster Government and many of the concerns were cross Border issues for example, tourism, farming and rurality.

“As an SNP initiative it is great to see an intergovernmental initiative working to the betterment of Borderers on both sides.

“Chancellor Philip Hammond’s budget announcement on the Borderlands Growth Deal is still at an early stage and I hope that there will be a firm commitment announced soon.”

Similarly satisfied was Councillor George Turnbull for Hawick and Hermitage, who added: “This should have a huge impact for the joint councils on both sides of the Borders to enhance and develop the infrastructure and especially extending the railway through from Tweedbank onto Carlisle via Newcastleton.

“Improved connectivity to help businesses and householders alike. Here’s hoping all concerned work together and make the most of what can and needs to be achieved.”

With the country set to freeze this week as temperatures plummet, how cold does it have to be before you can leave work?

Do employers have to keep their workplace at a certain temperature and can staff go home if it is too chilly?

Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, the temperature inside the workplace should provide ‘reasonable comfort’ without the need for special clothing.

It continues that ‘all reasonable steps should be taken to achieve a temperature which is as close as possible to comfortable’.

But, it all depends on what the temperature reading is inside your workplace. Government guidance indicates that the temperature should not fall below 16C, no matter how cold it is outside, or 13C if employees are doing physical work. Employers must stick to the health and safety law at work which includes keeping the temperature at a comfortable level and providing fresh and clean air.

But, there is no cap on the maximum temperature that staff can work in. Employers should do what they can, including providing additional heating and allowing their employees regular breaks and the chance to have a hot drink, should it get too cold.

Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course’s 19-year-old Angus Roberts has achieved a great accolade in the greenkeeping industry, having been crowned this year’s Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year.

To mark this accomplishment, Angus has won a two-week, all-expenses-paid work experience placement at the exclusive Vidauban Golf Club in the South of France, plus a trip to Continue to Learn at BTME (Europe’s leading exhibition for turf professionals] and training on a course of his choice through Toro UK distributor Reesink Turfcare.

He says: “I decided to take part in the awards to challenge myself and gain a better understanding of what level I’m at.

“It felt tremendous to win the competition. Already, the recognition from it has been brilliant and I’m sure it will open up more opportunities for me and my career.”

Moving on to his prize, Angus added: “I’m particularly looking forward to my placement at Vidauban. No doubt working abroad with people who speak another language will be a challenge, but it’ll be great for me to be more independent, meet new people and learn the different techniques they use over there.”

Award sponsor Reesink Turfcare’s managing director David Cole says: “Our appreciation to Vidauban Golf Club in France continues as it once again opens the doors to its unique microclimate, and in doing so continues the fantastic learning opportunity work experience here affords the winner of this category. We can’t wait to watch the impact this will undoubtedly have on Angus’ career.”

Roxburghe’s course manager Ross Ovens, who nominated Angus for the award, will be joining him for the last two days of his placement in France as part of the prize.

“I was delighted to hear the news that Angus had won the award. Working at an elite club like Vidauban will be a great opportunity for him,” he said.

“The entire club is delighted to see Angus secure this prestigious award so early on in his career and I hope his success shows other youngsters looking for a career in greenkeeping that Roxburghe is a great place to start.”

Police have appealed for information following a serious collision on the A7 north of Stow on Wednesday night.

Emergency services were called to the Fountainhall area around 11.40pm on Wednesday, November 29, to find a black Peugeot 206, which had been travelling southbound, had left the road and overturned before coming to a stop down an embankment.

The 47-year-old male driver and the 38-year-old female passenger were taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with what have now been established to be serious injuries.

A 48-year-old male passenger was taken to Borders General Hospital with minor injuries.

The road was reopened around 1.30am and the vehicle was recovered at 2.30pm on Thursday, November 30.

The 47-year-old driver has been charged with a road traffic offence in connection with this collision and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Sergeant Ross Drummond of the Road Policing Unit said: “Our enquiries into this collision continue and we’d urge anyone who may have witnessed this, or who may have information which can help, to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 4093 of November 29.

Borders rugby legend Doddie Weir, who received the horrific news that he had motor neurone disease a year ago, talked this week about his sheer frustration over the lack of research into the condition.

He was talking at the TriFitness gym in Galashiels, where he has been working with staff to come up with a programme that will help others with similar conditions.

He said he felt he had to do something, because he felt there was a lack of progress.

He told us: “Since my diagnosis, it’s been really frustrating because there’s really nothing getting done about it.

“This is why I would like to make a difference.

“In this day and age, to have no new drugs in 22 years for a terminal illness, and for there to have been no trials in Scotland to try to find a cure, is frustrating.

“I’ve had to come here myself to try and find ways of coming up with ideas myself, which shouldn’t be the case in today’s environment.

“Someone upstairs has dealt me with the MND card, and at the moment, I’m trying to see if I can make a difference, and that’s where I am.

“Hopefully I can in some small shape or form.”

Further reading: Doddie’s mission to change the lives of those with MND

League action returns this week following a lengthy lay-off in order to accomodate the national team’s Autumn Test schedule.

For Hawick, the current occupiers of bottom spot in the BT Premiership, their home fixture against highflyers Stirling County should hold slightly less fear than three weeks ago on the evidence of recent Border League and Scottish Cup victories.

“We needed to get a win to basically generate a little bit more confidence after losing for so long this season, it can become a habit but we have had two games [outside of league play] and we’ve won both of them,” said Hawick head coach, George Graham following last week’s win at Peebles.

“We are trying to get back into the habit of winning, which is vitally important for us heading into the next part of the season. We have won two games now and that’s all we can ask.”

Gardening fans can dream of a green Christmas as tickets go on sale for Gardening Scotland 2018.

The hugely popular event takes place from Friday June 1-3 at Ingliston, Edinburgh, but passes are on sale now to tap into the festive gift market.

The show will feature top nurseries selling exceptional plants, show gardens packed with exciting ideas to try out at home and plant experts handing out advice, answering queries and suggesting new ways of getting the most out of every plot.

It’s the ideal place to find new plants, innovative techniques and all the accessories and equipment that are essential for a fabulous garden – and it is also a fantastic day out, with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages.

The experience can be made even more special by enjoying afternoon tea amongst the beautiful plants in the Floral Pavilion.

Combined ticket and afternoon tea packages are also available.

More information on tickets from £14 and packages from £39 here Gardening Scotland

THe Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has cited the increased use of mobile banking apps and the resultant fall in transactions at local branches, as the reason for closing six long-standing branches in the Borders.

It’s believed that between 25-30 jobs will be lost in the Borders, with the banks in Hawick, Selkirk, Jedburgh, Duns, Eyemouth and Melrose all expected to close in 6 months.

It’s part of a nationwide slash, with 62 RBS and 197 NatWest branches closing with the loss of 680 jobs.

The move means that in the last few years, RBS will have closed nine of its branches in the region, with only Kelso, Galashiels or Peebles remaining open. Hawick residents face a 40-mile round trip to visit a bank and those living in Duns will have to travel 30 miles to Berwick and back.

Three years ago, the bank also shut its branches in Chirnside, Greenlaw and Newtown St Boswells. The Bank of Scotland also announced this year that its branches in Coldstream, Lauder, West Linton and Newtown St Boswells were closing.

An RBS spokesperson said: “More and more of our customers are choosing to do their everyday banking online or on mobile.

“Since 2014, the number of customers using our branches across the UK has fallen by 40% and mobile transactions have increased by 73% over the same period.

“Over 5 million customers now use our mobile banking app and one in five only bank with us digitally.

“We realise this is difficult news for our colleagues and we are doing everything we can to support those affected.”

The Unite union has said the closures are “savage”.

A spokesperson for Unite said: “The news today by RBS is totally shocking and represents a change in how the banking sector conducts its affairs.

“The sheer scale of this latest round of branch closures is savage. How can a UK taxpayer-backed organisation devastate local communities by disenfranchising them of the ability to bank at their local branch?

“Once again loyal staff, that have helped to rebuild RBS over the last decade, will be rewarded with the prospect of an uncertain future and a bleak Christmas.”

Local politicians have expressed their disappointment with the news and called on the bank to do all it can to support customers and staff.

Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP John Lamont said: “I’ve spoken to senior management to express my deep disappointment about this news. It is hard not to come to the conclusion that RBS simply does not care about its customers in rural Scotland.

“Alongside other Conservative MPs, I will be meeting senior RBS Executives early next week to discuss how this will impact on our communities.

“We’ve now had nine RBS branches close in recent years and many people will be asking when this will stop. These plans effectively mean RBS is set to withdraw from the Borders.

“While we all accept that with internet and telephone banking, branch use has declined, I don’t believe the banks understand fully that many elderly and vulnerable people want to do their banking face to face. And many local businesses who handle cash need their local branch.

“Despite my protests, RBS do not look likely to reverse this decision, so the focus now needs to be on supporting customers and staff. I have sought a commitment from RBS that mobile branches will be rolled out in all six towns at the very least.”

And Rachael Hamilton, MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, added: “This is a hugely disappointing news and will hit high streets in the Borders hard.

“This will damage footfall and put extra strain on local business as a result, let alone RBS customers who will now have to face significant journeys to Kelso or Galashiels if they want to visit their nearest branch.

“I hope RBS will reconsider these closures, and are not left bemoaning its decision when further investment comes to the Borders.”

Timescale for closures

● Selkirk branch May 21, 2018

● Duns branch: June 5, 2018

● Eyemouth branch: June 11, 2018

● Hawick branch: June 14, 2018

● Jedburgh branch: June 18, 2018

● Melrose branch: June 21, 2018

It’s been a quiet few years for Hawick’s sportsmen and women at the annual ClubSport Roxburgh Awards but last Friday night they made up for it in spades.

Attending the final regional awards ceremony of the season, at Jed-Forest RFC’s Riverside Park clubrooms, the Teri’s scooped five of the nine trophies on offer.

ClubSport Roxburgh chairman Norman Anderson led the proceedings that saw individuals and clubs recognised for their efforts within sport and in keeping the region more physically active.

Riding high on the night was Hawick jockey Craig Nichol who was named 2017 ClubSport Roxburgh Sports Personality of the Year.

During his jumps career to date Craig has had 130 wins from 1145 rides and has had 17 winners already in the 2017/2018 season.

Craig cemented his name as one of the top young jump riders in the sport in 2016 when 36 wins, over a 12-month period, saw him claim the Stobart Champion Conditional Jockey Award with relative ease.

Riding at the time for fellow Teri Keith Dalgleish the 22-year-old beat his closest rival Harry Cobden by six wins.

Speaking after collecting his ClubSport Roxburgh Award on Friday night Craig said: “I feel incredibly honoured to have won this award tonight, it’s always special to be recognised in your own area.

“Winning Champion Conditional Jockey was a great experience for me and it’s important now to keep building on that. It’s early days this season so far and my aim is to get 40 winners by the end of it.”

Now competing as a freelance rider Craig regularly secures bookings for Dalgleish along with other high profile trainers such as Rose Dobbin and Nicky Richards but puts much of his early success down to the experience gained whilst growing up in Hawick.

“There are so many good yards around and some great opportunities if you are willing to put in the hard work,” he added.

“Horse racing is something I love and that I have always loved even as a kid. It can be mentally and physically tough but if you enjoy it, as I do, then I would encourage other youngsters to take it up.”

Rising rugby star Darcy Graham, also from Hawick, was the recipient of the Junior Sports Personality of the Year Award following a season which saw him represent Scotland at Under 20s level and named in the ‘Team of the Tournament’ in the Junior World Cup. Since his return from the World Cup.

Other Hawick Award winners were Hawick Albion RFC, who’s honours over the past season include winning the Scottish Youth League Cup and the Borders U16 League.

Hawick Boxing Club legend Les Casson picked up the Coach of the Year Award while the Hawick Bowling Club Scottish Championship winning senior rink of, Willie Wells, Robin Bell, Les Clarkson and Bill Anderson (skip) were given a special recognition award.

Also receiving special recognition was Roxburgh Reivers Orienteering Club chairman Robin Sloan, who’s many achievements in the last year included picking up a World and two Scottish titles in the M70 class.

Bowling was once again to the fore in the Disability Award category which, this year, was won by Jedburgh BC’s Mike Nicoll who’s recent success on the greens has put him in contention for a place in the Scottish squad heading to the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Kelso badminton and hockey coach Linsey Young took the Junior Coach of the Year honours while fellow Tweedsider Addie Gray was given the SALSC Service to Sport Award in recognition of his relentless work on the athletics circuit.

2017 winners at a glance:

Special Recognition Award – Hawick Bowling Club Senior Rink (Willie Wells, Robin Bell, Les Clarkson and Bill Anderson)

Special Recognition Award – Robin Sloan

Junior Coach of the Year – Linsey Young

Coach of the Year – Les Casson

Club of the Year – Hawick Albion RFC

SALSC Service to Sport – Addie Gray

Disability Award – Mike Nicoll

Junior Sports Personality of the Year – Darcy Graham

Sports Personality of the Year – Craig Nichol

A 24-year-old man involved in a struggle in Galashiels town centre which resulted in his friend breaking his leg has been ordered to carry out 225 hours of unpaid work at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Greg Stewart pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening or abusive manner in Lawyers Brae, Galashiels, on July 8.

His lawyer said the pair had known each other all their lives and too much alcohol had been consumed. He added that his client did not set out to break his friend’s leg, but accepted his behaviour was reckless.

In addition to the unpaid work, Stewart, of Adersier, near Inverness, was ordered to pay £800 compensation to the leg-break victim.

Sheriff Derrick McIntyre told Stewart if it had been a stranger involved in the incident he would be going straight to prison. He said the sentences imposed were an alternative to custody.

Sentimental Brits would prefer to receive a Christmas card than a text or email, a study has found.

Researchers found despite high tech methods to deliver messages of goodwill, most still yearn for a good old fashioned handwritten card.

Half of adults polled in the Oxfam study would be devastated to receive a festive communication over social media instead of a heartfelt Christmas card.

Eight in ten admit they’d hate to see technology taking over one of their favourite times of the year, and 64 per cent think those who don’t bother to send a card have lost the true spirit of Christmas.

An overwhelming 83 per cent believe more thought and feeling goes into the written word than a quick-fire text message or post.

And nine in ten adults still believe a Christmas card is the most fitting festive greeting of all.

Fee Gilfeather, head of customer experience at Oxfam, said: “Us Brits love our traditions, and this survey proves our nation is united when it comes to festive greetings.

“Electronic messages just can’t replace reading a handwritten message from a well-wisher, or the lovely decoration they bring when strung up at home.”

Two thirds of those polled admitted they would be offended to receive a Christmas text, festive photo filter or seasonal status update from parents, siblings or a best friend.

Distant relations

According to seven in ten, these types of messages during the festive period are only appropriate for distant acquaintances - and even then a considerable two thirds still preferred a card through the mail than a message in an inbox.

Two thirds of Brits are warmed by the idea of the thought and effort that goes into choosing, writing and posting a Christmas card - while 37 per cent look forward to reading the greeting inside.

Half of those polled feel sending a card shows someone really cares - and for one in ten, the sound of a card coming through the letterbox makes them feel a little less lonely.

On the other hand, 46 per cent said digital greetings are too easy to send, and lack the thought and effort that a traditional hand written card brings.

More than one third disliked the thought of online friends firing off messages to everyone in their contacts list, like a Christmas conveyor belt.

But if Christmas cards is a numbers game, Brits are totalling some impressive festive figures: sending an average of 23 greetings each year, and spending an average 45 minutes writing them - approximately two minutes on each.

Though there are many people to consider, and much to say when carefully crafting cards each December - unsurprisingly, parents received the lengthiest messages, while best friends, siblings and children also receive detailed tidings.

Christmas round robin

More than four in ten adults said they use Christmas cards as a round robin - a traditional way of communicating to distant family and friends what has happened during the year - and seven in ten considered it a fantastic way of keeping in touch.

But it’s not always the season of goodwill when it comes to Christmas greetings - as almost one in ten have ‘defriended’ someone because they didn’t receive anything from them.

What’s more, a name spelt wrong and a card received after Christmas were considered the ultimate faux pas - as was a stamped name and a hastily scrawled signature.

While one in five feel nauseous receiving personalised cards of a beaming family, including the family pet among the list of senders also makes the list of seasonal social blunders.

Through only one third of adults feel every single card message should be different from another, eight in ten Brits said Christmas cards receive more thought and feeling than a digital greeting ever could.

A man has been remanded in custody after falsely claiming he was unable to appear in court because he was in jail at the time.

Paul Millar was charged with failing to show at Jedburgh Sheriff Court without reasonable excuse earlier this month.

When he was arrested on a warrant and appeared from custody at Selkirk Sheriff Court, he explained he had been unable to turn up previously because he was locked up in Durham Prison at the time.

The 57-year-old was detained overnight as court officials checked out his story with jail chiefs. Millar appeared in court the following morning when it was revealed that he was released from Durham Prison on Friday, November 10, so he should have been in court on Monday, November 13.

Defending, Mat Patrick said his client had mixed up the dates. He said it would have been pointless to mislead the court “for something that could so easily be checked out”.

Millar changed his plea to guilty for failing to appear in court on November 13. But he denied removing four alloy wheels from a vehicle parked in Edinburgh Road, Jedburgh, on October 15.

A trial date was fixed for December 28 at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, with an intermediate hearing on December 14. Millar, of Spencer Street, Carlisle, was remanded in custody until then.

A Heiton motorist who collided with three parked cars while more than three times the legal alcohol limit was banned from driving for 14 months at Jedburgh Sheriff Court this week.

Steven Jack – groundsman at the Border Union Showground in Kelso – was returning from a night out when the accident happened in the town’s East Bowmont Street on October 21.

The 29-year-old, of Ladyrigg Farm Cottages, pleaded guilty to driving with a breath/alcohol count of 68 microgrammes – the legal limit is 22.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said Jack had been driving a four-wheel drive vehicle and had lost control, colliding with three cars at around 11.50pm. He said he had tried to contact the owners and was traced a short time later.

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said his client had been at a function at Kelso Rugby Club, but had been set upon by another person who had been ejected from the club for inappropriate behaviour.

He went on: “He had intended to get a taxi, but after the scuffle he just wanted out of there and decided to drive. He had four pints during the course of the day and thought he would be okay, but he has misjudged it.”

The court agreed with Mr Patrick’s recommendation that his client be placed on the drink-drivers’ rehabilitation course which offers a 25 per cent discount on the length of the ban if completed at the offender’s expense.

Jack was also fined £300.

Ambitious plans to extend a booming arts complex in Peebles through a £1.5 million redevelopment are moving to the next stage.

Eastgate Theatre and Arts Centre is enjoying a period of impressive growth with attendances up more than 14 per cent in the last year, a £5000 surplus recorded and 200 events staged in the main auditorium and studio.

The growth at the 13-year-old theatre over recent years has put considerable pressure on the building with a lack of space limiting its effectiveness.

The Board of Directors decided to tackle these limitations by applying to the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Assets programme for a major grant to enlarge and improve the building to increase its capacity, physically and operationally, and to develop an expanded suite of facilities.

These plans took a significant step forward with an offer of initial grant support of £45,000 from the Big Lottery Fund which has funded the first phase of design work, costings, and community consultation. It was hoped an added boost from Peebles Common Good Fund would be received this week, with £8375 being sought to add to the appeal coffers.

There is still a long way to go to ensure the redevelopment goes ahead but the efforts are being boosted by continuing core grant support from LiveBorders, plus funds raised through donations and fundraising by Friends of the Eastgate.

Theatre chairman, Sir David Younger, said: “I am delighted to report that for another year the Eastgate Theatre has continued to increase the number and variety of opportunities it offers for all sorts of people, in Tweeddale and beyond, to experience arts of the highest quality.

“The theatre continues to use its LiveBorders grant and revenue grants from other funders to support its operation, but this capital redevelopment proposal is on a different scale. If successful, it will bring approximately £1.5m into the area to create an arts and community asset fit to meet the needs and demands of the growing population of Peebles and surrounding areas, both now and in the future.”

Anyone interested in the development is invited to the theatre on Wednesday, December 6, from 2pm to 8pm, when the project group and design team, including the architect, will be on hand to discuss proposals and answer any questions.

What happens when you review the newspapers, but the papers are Christmas toy catalogues and the guests are kids?

Discount voucher site, MyVoucherCodes, has recorded a cheeky festive take on a typical news channel’s paper review, but instead of relying on adult reviewers, they have little ones leafing through their papers… or in this case, high street store toy catalogues.

The three short videos, aimed at helping parents choose the right gifts for their kids this Christmas, are split into age categories; 5 to 7, 8 to 11 and 12 to 14. They show adorable children reviewing their favourite picks from the 2017 Christmas toy catalogues and features TV presenter, Jemma Forte.

The adage “Never work with children or animals” proves to be true, with chaos ensuing: kids running riot through the studio, Nerf Guns aimed and ready to be fired and quarrels over what toy should be crowned top!

Seven-year-old Stellan Powell, who features in the 5 to 7 age category video, talks eagerly about a Hatchimals toy, which he names “Skunky”.

He said of the experience: “I love looking through toy catalogues but to be able to do it on TV was so cool! I felt like a grown up in the studio and I definitely want a Hatchimal for Christmas now!”

The Cost of Christmas Toys

With the festive frenzy upon us, MyVoucherCodes has also conducted a study looking into Christmas spending. It reveals that the cost of the Top 10 Christmas Toy List for 2017 is a whopping £829 on average2– 4.6 times more than what kids estimate their parents will spend this season!

Furthermore, the study reveals that 8 to 11 year olds are the most expensive to buy for, with the cost of the Top 10 Christmas Toy List for that age group coming in at £684 – 12% more than 12 to 14 year olds.

In addition, 1,000 children were surveyed nationwide to find out how much they really know about mummy and daddy’s Christmas spending habits.

When asked how much parents spend on gifts, boys gave a slightly higher estimate (£187) than girls (£176) – both still hundreds off the true cost. Interestingly, children in the North East believe they have the most money spent on them (£241.02), compared to children in the South East, who estimate the smallest spend (£153.95).

They say honesty is the best policy, but the survey reveals just one in five kids would admit to their parents if they didn’t like what they found under the tree on Christmas morning.

Brighton’s kids are revealed to be the most honest with 44% saying they would tell their parents if they disliked a gift. However, kids in Cardiff would prefer to hide the truth from their old folks – just 10% would admit if they weren’t happy with a gift.

Chris Reilly, Managing Director of MyVoucherCodes commented: “The disparity between what children think parents spend on gifts at Christmas compared to what they actually spend is significant. Be sure to save money this year by looking online and searching around for the best deals.”

Click here to watch the other age groups:

8-11 year olds

12-14 year olds

Leaderdale and Melrose councillors have called on the local community to continue to support local businesses during the closure of the Lowood Bridge.

The bridge will be closed from Monday, December 4, until Monday, December 18, to allow emergency work to the parapet walls of the B-listed structure to be carried out.

A diversion will be in place via the A6091, A7 through Galashiels and B6374 road, with alternative arrangements for some bus services.

Pedestrian access will also be restricted during the closure, with the Chain Bridge at Gattonside an alternative route for walkers.

In a joint statement, councillors Kevin Drum, Tom Miers and David Parker said: “It is unfortunate that this closure is taking place during the busy Christmas season, but there was no alternative due to the importance of the emergency works which are required.

“During this time, we would appeal to local people to keep supporting the local traders, such as Lowood Nursery which remains open for festive shopping despite the bridge closure.

“The main repair and strengthening works to the bridge are expected to begin in January 2018 for 20 weeks, with a start date to be confirmed. Again, we would ask that the public keep supporting their local shops and businesses during this time.

“We realise this closure is an inconvenience to the local community, but it is being carried out to ensure Lowood Bridge can carry traffic for many years to come.”

Further bus information

● Services 60, 67 and 68

The following 60 and 67 departures from the Galashiels Transport Interchange, Monday to Saturday, will operate via Langlee, Winston Road, Tweed Road, Kingsknowes roundabout for A6091 to BGH and normal route: Service 60 (Monday to Friday) –  5.15am, 6.15am, 7.37am and 8am. Saturday – 6.30am.

Service 67 (Monday to Saturday) – 7am. All other 60 and 67 departures from Galashiels will operate direct from the Transport Interchange via Abbotsford Road, Kingsknowes roundabout for A6091 to BGH for normal route.

● Services 60, 67 and 68 from Melrose to Galashiels will operate direct from BGH to Kingsknowes Roundabout for Abbotsford Road, Braw Lads’ Brae to the Transport Interchange.

● Service 71

Service 71 will operate from Melrose Gait via Winston Road, Tweed Road, Kingsknowes roundabout for A6091 to BGH to Melrose in both directions all day.

● Service 313

Service 313 will operate from BGH to Kingsknowes roundabout, Tweed Road, Winston Road for normal route to Galashiels.

● SBC service 964 (Border Weaver)

An additional bus is being provided to run from Gattonside to Galashiels Transport Interchange at 10.14am and from Galashiels Transport Interchange to Gattonside at 12.45pm, Monday to Friday.

● Earlston High School E01 service

The service will leave Darnick 15 minutes early to allow for the diverted journey, with no change to the pick-up time for children in Gattonside.

More information is available at Scottish Borders Council’s website.