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EXPLORE the South of Scotland
Magazine
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine is produced bi-monthly with the twin objectives of promoting the tourism offer in the South of Scotland region - and the all important task of helping you plan ahead for your visit.
Your team
Editor
David Pike
Editorial
Meriem Yahiaoui
Chris Pike
James MacDonald
Photography
Steven Somerville Ian Bell
Dennis Laing
Get in touch
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine is free of charge and e-mailed to desktops everywhere. Make sure of a regular copy by getting in touch at the editor’s e-mail below.
And if you have a story you would like to share or an event coming up we would love to hear from you.
m 07970 811 831
e davidpike55@googlemail.com
c Copyright All rights reserved. Vertu Corporate Communications.
South of Scotland
Welcome to the South of Scotland
It’s all happening in the South of Scotland.
Whether you are looking for a First-Class ticket to exceptional episodes in history, to join unique events or meet up with some of the UK’s top authors, political leaders and commentators, June and July have got something for you.
From the ever popular Jimmie Guthrie Memorial Run to the Tour of Britain and the Borders Book Festival there’s a busy couple of months coming up - an impressive programme for visitors and locals alike. We have featured as many as possible in this issue of Explore the South of Scotland Magazine.
We would love to get your feedback on events and your visits to our remarkable region, so please drop us a line.
In the meantime ... happy reading.
Editor
EXPLORE the South of Scotland Magazine
Events
10 - 11 On the road again...
One of the Borders best loved annual rallies, the 64th Jimmie Guthrie Memorial Run, is revving up for action.
12
13 Borders Book Festival
National Treasures will make their way to Harmony Garden in the Scottish Borders in June for one of the best parties in Britain.
14 -15
Marching back in time at Coldstream
Taking a close up look at the historic starting point for the Coldstream Guards
8 - 9 Bringing history to life
Historic Environment Scotland oversees an unrivalled portfolio of historic buildings and places of interest throughout Dumfries and Galloway.
Here to help you plan ahead
Playing a trump card for tourism in the South of Scotland
Whether its a day trip, a weekend break or an extended stay, the South of Scotland offers something for everyone. And it’s essential to plan ahead.
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine, in association with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, is your perfect companion introducing you to places of interest, activity breaks and a look at what’s coming up for the two months ahead.
Our magazine is produced by experienced journalists, writers and photographers to help you make the most of your stay in a truly remarkable part of the world.
simulated clay pigeon shooting experience from Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate.
Welcoming Center Parcs to the South of Scotland
It was fantastic to be there at Hawick Rugby Club back in November when Center Parcs UK announced their ambition to build their first Scottish holiday village here in the Scottish Borders.
The scale of the proposed investment is extraordinary: at £400m it is more than the entire cost of the Borders railway.
It will create 1,200 permanent, year-round jobs - that’s the equivalent of re-opening a number of the mills the Borders have lost in recent decades.
These new jobs will put £30-40m a year into local pockets and this in turn has the potential to be transformative for Hawick, Galashiels, Jedburgh and Selkirk.
Over the last six months the top leadership team of Center Parcs have been absolutely committed to this new project: coming back
Scotland Starts Here The future of tourism in the South of Scotland
to the Borders, from CEO down, for each of the monthly community information events. Through this period, we have been listening to existing visitor economy businesses across the region and representing their views in regular discussions with Center Parcs.
Together, we will work to ensure that Center Parcs nests within the existing South of Scotland visitor economy eco-system, so as many local businesses and communities benefit from this unprecedented investment as possible.
Key to this, is inspiring a proportion of those who come to Center Parcs to bolt-on a stay before or afterwards to explore the wider area.
We want visitors to see more, explore further and stay longer.
I’m hugely grateful for Center Parcs’ commitment to working together to maximise the economic and social benefit from their investment.
They are careful not to count any chickens and are entirely respectful of the planning
process and the various hurdles they will have to clear in the coming months. If all goes well, they could secure planning permission by the end of 2025, which would allow the holiday village to potentially open by spring 2029.
We are hugely excited that such a significant company chose to come to the South of Scotland, it is a ringing endorsement of our destination and all that the South has to offer.
Scotland Starts Here. And, hopefully, soon Center Parcs will too
David Hope-Jones OBE CEO, South of Scotland Destination Alliance / Scotland Starts Here
What's ON
The Lloyds Tour of Britain Women's event heads for the Scottish Borders in June.
Kelso will host stage three of the UCI Women's World Tour on June 7 starting and finishing in The Square.
Eighteen teams will take to the starting line, the biggest field in the event's history, that will include many of the world's leading riders.
Stage three - the Queen Stage - will see riders tackling a testing and spectator friendly route covering almost 90 miles around the Eildon Hills.
After an 11am start the race heads past Mellerstain House, then via Smailholm to the first of two ascents of the Queen of the Mountains climb at Scott's View.
Continuing under the Leaderfoot viaduct, riders will then cross the River Tweed and race through Melrose before taking on the Dingleton climb.
Heading south via Denholm, the race climbs Dunion Hill and heads into Jedburgh before returing to Kelso and circling the grounds of Floors Castle before second ascents at Scot's View and Dingletonsetting up a high speed final 15 kilometres back to the finish line in The Square at around 3pm.
Spectator Information
Parking will be available at the Borders Events Centre, Springwood Park which will also be hosting the Kelso Antiques Fair.
There will be activities and entertainment throughout the day in Kelso town centre and also in Melrose. Spectators will be able to watch the race anywhere along the route but rolling road closures and parking restrictions will be in place in some communities.
More details can be found at ... https://www.scotborders.gov.uk/ tourofbritain
Former world champon Lizzie Deignan (above) headlines the star British riders taking part in the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women.
Having won the event twice (2016 and 2019) and taken the mountains' jersey in last year's race, Lizzie is lining up for her final appearance in the country's biggest professional women's race.
"I have such special memories from this race and over my career enjoyed a lot of success. It is always a different feeling racing in front of home crowds so I hope we see a lots of fans cheering for our women's peloton over the four days," she said.
Bringing history to life
Historic Environment Scotland oversees an unrivalled portfolio of historic buildings and places of interest throughout Dumfries and Galloway.
From the spectacular 13th century Caerlaverock Castle (right) to Orchardton Tower (bottom), a 15th century structure that lays claim to be the only free standing round tower of it stype in Scotland.
Both have recently been underegoing essential restoration works and are now accessible to visitors.
Dating to the mid 1400s, Orchardton Tower, near Castle Douglas, operated as a fortified residence for a nobleman named John Cairns.
At Caerlaverock it was the impact of climate change rather than cannonballs that posed a threat and made the castle the subject of a High Level Masonry project.
Rosie Thorp, District Visitor and Community Manager for Dumfries and Galloway at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said: “Originally built in the 1270s, Caerlaverock Castle is a hugely important site in Dumfries and Galloway, and these measures are necessary to facilitate vital conservation works. Some access restrictions remain in place at the West range, outer stair, North West and East towers.
"I am pleased that Orchardton Tower is now fully available for visitors to enjoy," she said.
Another popular visitor attraction is the New Abbey Corn Mill, just a a few miles from Caerlaverock along the road to Dumfries.
The 18th century mill charts local rural life up until its closure in 1948 and contains original machinery.
Historic of information Users brings information trove.scot and pig, and Tower, 200th Alternatively, an archive-driven following Street, house.
Katerina heritage scot surrounds of historic “trove.scot enhance the number heritage,"
Tapping into a treasure trove
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has launched trove.scot, a new digital portal information on the historic environment.
Users can now delve into the heritage on their doorstep with the platform, which brings together HES’s unique and diverse collections of information in one convenient place.
trove.scot contains over 5,000 years of Scotland’s history some of the gems from the Borders include the pirlie a medieval piggy bank on display at Melrose Abbey ad series of costumed figures on display at Smailholm Tower, created by local artist Anne Carrick to celebrate the 200th anniversary in 1971 of Sir Walter Scott's birth.
Alternatively, use trove.scot’s geographical feature for archive-driven digital stroll along St Cuthbert’s Way, following routes such as the ancient Roman road Dere Street, or visit the Bear Gates in front of Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house.
Katerina Brown, Chief Executive of HES, said: “We are excited to be bringing heritage even closer to people’s everyday lives with this new platform. trove. will make it easier to learn about the heritage and historic environment that surrounds you, whether that is the listed buildings on your street or archive images historic events that shaped communities.
“trove.scot marks one of the largest investments in our programme to improve and enhance digital access to information on the historic environment, and increase number and diversity of people who engage with Scotland’s history and heritage," she said.
Events On the road again... with Borders racing legend Jimmie Guthrie
One of the Borders best loved annual rallies is revving up for action.
This year's Jimmie Guthrie Memorial Run for vintage motorcycles and cars - the 64this set to take place on June 15.
Sponsored by Bonhams, the rally is expected to attract over 100 motorcycle riders and up to 50 vintage cars.
They will be covering a 40-mile route starting from Denholm Green at 1pm heading for Ancrum, Nisbet, Roxburgh to the square in Kelso.
From there riders and drivers will head for Scott's View (approx 2pm) through St Boswells and on to Charlesfield and Lillisleaf before crossing the finishing line at Wilton Lodge Park in Hawick at 3.30pm.
A prize giving ceremony will take place next to the Jimmie Guthrie statue that stands in the park.
Organised by Jimmy Steel on behalf of Hawick and Border Motor Cycle Club, the rally attracts enthusiasts from all over the UK.
All bikes and vehicles will be on display at Denholm Green before leaving.
"It's shaping up to be an excellent rally this year. "The list of entries include five three-wheelers. We'll be welcoming people from all over the UK and it promises to be a great occasion," said Jimmy.
* Jimmy, whose family owned a garage in Hawick, was one of the outstanding motorcycle riders of his day.
He died, aged 40, riding his beloved Norton motorcycle and, as usual, leading the field and thrilling a crowd of 250,000 people packed into the Sachsenring Circuit near Chemnitz in Saxony, Germany.
Also included in the display will be a watering ram that was used in the Guthrie family business in Hawick. "It dates back to the 1930's and we think it's the only one around. And if anyone can provide any idea about how its worked I would love to hear from them," added Jimmy.
The year was 1937 and Jimmie, who had sharpened his talent for riding motorcycles as a despatch rider on the battlefields of France during WW1 (not to mention coping with the twists and turns of the country roads around Hawick) was at the pinnacle of a glittering career.
Over the previous 10 years he had raced and beaten the best, collecting 32 major titles along the way.
The Hawick flying machine has a dedicated display of bikes, trophies and memorabilia at Wilton Park Museum - and it’s well worth a visit.
More about Jimmie Guthrie at www jimmieguthrie.weebly.com
Vintage showstoppers to look out for at this year's rally...
Motorcycles
Above...A 1941 Indian motorcycle that was a familiar sight during WW2.
Right...A rare 1923 Sunbeam motorcycle.
Automobiles
Above...A classic vintage Model T Ford dating back to 1912.
Right... The MG MGA sports car that continues to cut a dash more than 70 years since it first took to the roads.
Events
in the South of Scotland
Borders Book Festival all set to make summer sparkle
National Treasures will make their way to Harmony Garden in the Scottish Borders in June for one of the best parties in Britain.
For four glorious days (June 12 to 15), all roads will lead to Melrose, where the Borders Book Festival will celebrate books and writers, interrogate politics and current affairs, and where festival-goers will have fun and be amazed.
The diamonds and rubies in the Book Festival’s National Treasure chest will include Gavin and Stacey stars Alison Steadman and Larry Lamb who both have new books along with Michael Palin who will cast his glow, talking about his latest volume of diaries.
Stacey Dooley won Strictly! and has also written a superb, moving book on motherhood while Hairy Biker, Si King, needed no second invitation to put on his helmet and roar up the A68 to Melrose.
Scottish headliners Kirsty Wark and Sally Magnusson will recall the good – and bad –bits of 20 years on Newsnight and 27 years on Reporting Scotland while Tanni (Grey Thomson) will meet Sammi (Kinghorn) and talk about gold (medals) and much else with Louise Minchin.
And the doyen of crime fiction, Ian Rankin, returns in triumph to Melrose after another number one bestseller.
This summer, politics and political discourse will be major themes. Now freed from the constraints of government, former cabinet ministers Jeremy Hunt and Michael Gove will share their thoughts.
First Minister, John Swinney, will talk to another former cabinet minister, festival chairman Michael Moore, not about politics but about the books that shaped his thinking. Andrew Marr, Sally Magnusson and Alistair Moffat will discuss the seismic changes in journalism and why they matter.
And unique to the festival, available on no other format, Jim Naughtie will unravel what is truly happening in Washington – that day.
To mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War: Andrew Marr and James Holland will celebrate the Great Generation who sacrificed so much for victory; Tim Bouverie will discuss his superb book on the politics of the allies who defeated Hitler; and, in To See Ourselves, Alistair Moffat charts how the boomer generation radically changed post-war Britain.
The announcement of the prestigious Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction will also be made on the opening evening of the Festival, with six shortlisted international literary talents in contention for the £25,000 prize.
As spring finally wakes us all from the long, dark winter, it gives us such joy to be able to bring to Melrose’s idyllic Harmony Garden such a treat for the June diaries.
This year we will look back at world events eighty years ago, with the end of World War Two, and will also hear direct from some of Britain’s brightest minds their reflections on our current world: how it’s changed; where it’s headed; and what we can do about it.
But it’s not all heavy politics. As ever, our programme is as varied as it is packed, with top-notch storytelling, inspiring sport, wellknown faces from the screen, and tales of travel and adventure to suit all tastes.
Festival Director Alistair Moffat
The Family Book Festival, sponsored by Blackport Investments, takes place throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday.
Teeming with fantastic author events for young book festival-goers, the line up includes the inimitable Elle McNicol and former Waterstones Children’s Laureate and Carnegie Medal winner Joseph Coelho (right).
For younger audiences, Vivian French and Alan Windram returning to Harmony Garden, along with My Kind of Book founder and sensory storyteller Ailie Finlay (above).
In addition, the four-day festivities will also play host to live music, the Orchard Food Village, a bookshop to browse thanks to new sponsor David Young, as well as free, fun activities for all the family throughout the weekend.
The Borders Book Festival is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and environmental impact by implementing a number of net zero goals including: zero waste to landfill; e-ticketing and a donation to planting trees for every ticket purchased.
Tickets now available at www.bordersbookfestival.org or by calling 0131 290 2112.
For all you need to know and to keep in touch visit: www.bordersbookfestival.org
Harmony Gardens pictures - Lloyd Smith
Marching back in time at Coldstream
by Chris Pike
If you take the A698 over the Border into Scotland, you will discover the quiet town of Coldstream.
Perched on the north bank of the River Tweed from where there are sensational views of the borderlands, Coldstream is a welcoming place to visit.
But don’t be fooled. Its unassuming nature belies centuries of fascinating history if you know where to look, and there's no better starting point than Coldstream Museum, located in the heart of the town, just off Market Square.
The very building which today houses not one, but three exhibitions at any one time, is itself steeped in history.
It was the site of Coldstream Guards founder General Monck's headquarters, just before he marched on London in 1660, supporting the Stuart cause and restoring Charles II to the throne. With such an intriguing military link, it is fitting that the museum’s most striking permanent exhibition celebrates the world-famous Coldstream Guards regiment.
The town’s rich military history dates back even further, inevitably to Edward I’s invasion of Scotland in 1296 and, just over 200 years later the bloody Battle of Flodden, a name that has reverberated down the centuries in this part of the world.
Moving through the museum's first gallery, you will observe life through the eyes of proud serving Coldstream Guards past and present.
A fascinating array of artefacts, passionately cared for by the museum’s curator Andrew Tulloch, help breathe life into the magnificently dressed life-size mannequins.
Resplendent in uniforms, attire and weaponry that chart their history, the evolution of the regiment since its founding in 1650 and its key involvement in major conflicts down the generations, are expertly showcased.
The museum then shifts focus to its local history. Situated on the border of England and Scotland, Coldstream benefits from a unique cross-cultural heritage. The museum explores and celebrates this by weaving together the many strands of its history including its architecture, prominent town figures and community traditions.
It is here that the Provost's Robes and Chain of Office are proudly displayed while there is also the intriguing retelling of Coldstream Priory’s history.
The museum is another direct link back to the town’s past as the site of the original priory lies right beneath your feet.
Built in 1165/66 by Cospatrick III, Earl of Dunbar, it was originally established as a nunnery until its dissolution in 1621 and its subsequent destruction and conversion into a quarry.
Sadly, no structures remain today, however some of the Abbey’s original artefacts and beautifully decorated stonework are on display in the museum, remaining close to their spiritual home. Finally, you move into the light and airy Courtyard Gallery, a perfect space to display a changing programme of temporary exhibitions celebrating local artists and inspired by the history and culture of the town and its beautiful surroundings.
The museum is a tale of three contrasting and fascinating galleries and a perfect place to stop on a visit to the borders.
As the Coldstream Guard Regimental motto reads Nulli Secundus or Second to None: a phrase that would not be out of place above the museum’s own front door!
Coldstream Museum is run by Live Borders and is free to visit - donations are welcome.
Where
12 Market Square, Coldstream TD12 4BD
Contact points
T: 01890 882630
Email: museums@liveborders1.org.uk
Spring/Summer Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 – 15:00
Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday: 10:00 – 15:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 15:00
Friday: 10:00 – 15:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 15:00
Sunday: 12:00 – 15:00
on the South of Scotland
Focus Forging success with visitors to our special region
A ferocious dragon and a huge cat were just two of young blacksmith Nate Robinson’s mighty metal creations that visitors to his forge were able to admire during the latest Spring Fling success.
His garden in Thornhill is also home to steel dinosaurs, life-sized sheep made from bedsprings, and a 7.3 metre-tall eating fork – leaning casually against the side of the house as if abandoned by a forgetful giant.
Nate was part of the open studios weekend that featured more than 80 participants across Dumfries and Galloway giving visitors a chance to admire work by a huge variety of artists and makers in one of Scotland’s loveliest rural regions.
One of the other characters visitors was Ailsa, Nate’s black and white cat and the model for the three-metre metal feline which is reaching high into a tree in the garden.
“I really enjoy giving demonstrations of how I work in the forge. But the cat was a bit different – Ailsa loves climbing trees but isn’t very good at getting down and often has to be rescued. So, I created a cat the size of a car, with a special tunnel inside which she can easily run up and down – she loves it,” he said.
Nate's studio is in Thornhill, just north of Dumfries.
Find out more at his Virtual Studio at www.spring-fling.co.uk/ studio/nate-robinson/ Visit his page @natesforge
... and tuning in to a
There Scotland hugely Timmie after Destination The backdrop beautiful The Hamza incredible has restored eagles
Restoring Europe’s "When giving the south said The September preview Scotland
A special anniversary
Kirkudbright Galleries is hosting special exhibition dedicated to Jessie Marion King.
It marks the 150th anniversary of the 'Glasgow Girl' artist, renowned for her illustration of children's books.
This unique exhibition brings together 100 works from from drawing to batik jewellery to ceramics from the Kirkudbirght Artists Collection and private collectors.
Jessie settled in Kirkudbright, well known as a magnet for the art world, in 1907.
The exhibition, at the gallery at 3B St Mary's Street, runs until June 22.
Opening times...
Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm
Sunday from 11.30 to 5pm Free Entry
a national TV audience
There was a double bonus for tourism in the South of Scotland when the region was featured on the BBC's hugely popular The One Show.
Timmie Mallett led the way when he was interviewed his guest speaker role at the South of Scotland Destination Alliance annual conference.
Leaderfoot viaduct provided a suitably stunning backdrop as he talked about his travels and the beautiful South of Scotland region.
cameras and renowned wildlife photographer Hamza Yassin then turned their attention to the incredible work of the pioneering charity initiative that restored a previously low population of golden eagles in the south of Scotland to record numbers.
Restoring Upland Nature (RUN) has also launched Europe’s only annual golden eagle festival.
"When I heard about a golden eagle project that is giving them a helping hand to establish themselves in south of Scotland, I had to come and check it out," Hamza.
next festival is to take place in Moffat in September (12 to 14) and we'll be carrying a special preview in the next issue of Explore the South of Scotland Magazine.
Events
New in the Seventies - now a BVAC Classic!
To celebrate 50 years of the Borders Vintage Automobile Club Classic, this year’s event will have a distinctly Seventies theme at Thirlestane Castle on Sunday, June 8.
To celebrate this memorable milestone, iconic cars that were all brand new in the Seventies will take centre stage at this year's Festival of Motoring.
A flavour of what will be on display at the event (right) includes a Ford Capri, a Triumph Stag, a Jaguar XJS and an MGB Roadster, not forgetting the VW Camper.
All very much cars and stars of the Seventies that promise a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Fifty years of the BVAC Classic will be the central theme of this year’s show, but more than 1,000 vintage and classic vehicles of all shapes and sizes will be making their way to Thirlestane Castle in Lauder.
The first ever show took place in 1972 at Mellerstain House, with gaps during the foot and mouth and covid years. The show moved to Thirlestane Castle in 2005, and it has now grown into one of the biggest and most eagerly anticipated events on the South of Scotland events calendar, attracting more than 10,000 visitors.
And organisers are encouraging people to get into the spirit of the Seventies theme by digging out their flares and fashion favourites for which there will be prizes for the best dressed in 1970’s style.
Chairman of the BVAC, Keith Watson said: “The Borders Vintage Automobile Club is incredibly proud to celebrate 50 years at our annual Festival of Motoring.
"As well as a special 50th Birthday celebration, we hope that this year’s Seventies theme provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
"For many these were the cars of our childhood and our youth. For others, these cars capture the culture of the changing decade just as much as fashion or music did.
'We look forward to a very special BVAC Classic on June 8," said Keith.
In addition to this year’s central 50th Birthday theme and extensive displays of stunning veteran, vintage and classic cars, the occasion offers a huge array of superb attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
They include a live rally action stage, exciting stunt show, children’s play zone and activities, live music and an Artisan Food and Crafts Village to keep visitors happy and fuelled throughout the day!
Booking your tickets
Described as the ‘Best Classic Car Festival in Scotland’ there will be Veteran, Vintage and Classic Cars, Motorcycles, Commercial, Agricultural, Military, Steam and American Classes on display.
Tickets can be booked online at an advanced ticket price of £15, available to visitors who purchase before June 4.
Booking information at www.bvac.org.uk/bvac-classic/
Thirlestane Castle is one of the finest and oldest inhabited castles in Scotland, the ancestral home of the Maitland family for over 400 years.
The magnificent 16th century castle provides a stunning backdrop for the Festival of Motoring and is located in Lauder, in the beautiful Scottish Borders, 25 miles south of Edinburgh.
The Castle boasts 5-star accommodation, a tearoom and shop for visitors throughout the year and also hosts weddings and special events.
More at www.thirlestanecastle.co.uk
Grand plans unveiled at consultation events
Centre Parcs has revealed more details of its proposed holiday village in the Scottish Borders.
The company shared an updated masterplan at a series of community focused events as part of the ongoing planning process.
Key features include detailed designs for the village centre, showcasing the...
• Subtropical Swimming Paradise
• Aqua Sana Forest Spa
• Family friendly retail and dining options
A Nature and Heritage Centre, completed with an adjacent restaurant and coffee shop, will provide educational resources.
The masterplan also outlines extensive landscaping and screening measures to ensure the village blends seamlessly into the surrounding natural environment.
A formal planning application will be submitted to Scottish Borders Council this summer.
Colin McKinlay, CEO of Center Parcs, said: "We're pleased to share the latest version of the masterplan with the community and show how their feedback is helping to shape the future of the Scottish Borders village.
"Every detail has been carefully considered to reflect the unqiue character of the location. We have made good progress so far and are committed to continuing positive collaboration as we move forward," he said.
TEVIOTDALE STEEL BONNETS
Step Back in Time at Gilnockie Tower
Conservation success along the River Tweed
Pupils from Earlston High School successfully completed the Dynamic TweedStart Award at the Ian Gregg River Academy at Drygrange.
Throughout the four-week course, pupils immersed themselves in the life of the river, learning about freshwater ecology, developing fly fishing techniques, and building valuable outdoor skills rooted in the River Tweed's rich natural heritage.
The programme was led by Ben McCallum, Education Officer at the Tweed Foundation.
On the final day, the group was joined by Cameron Crawford of the George Crawford Legacy Trust, who presented a generous £2,000 cheque to support the ongoing work of TweedStart.
"The George Crawford Legacy Trust is here to help young people in the Borders to reach their goals and ambitions. We’re proud to support TweedStart and the incredible opportunities it offers local pupils," he said."
Jamie Stewart, Head of the Tweed Foundation, added: “We are immensely grateful to the George Crawford Legacy Trust for their continued support. TweedStart is about more than just fishing.
"It’s about helping young people connect with nature, develop life skills, and feel a sense of ownership and pride in their local environment. This donation will directly support those aims.”
The TweedStart programme plays a vital role in engaging young people with nature, encouraging stewardship of the river, and equipping them with skills that will serve them for life.
For more information on TweedStart or to support the programme, visit www. rivertweed.org.uk
TweedStart
TweedStart is the Tweed Foundation’s education and outreach programme, designed to introduce young people across the River Tweed catchment to the river, its wildlife, and the sport of angling.
For the good of the river
The Tweed Foundation is a charitable trust working to protect, improve and enhance the stocks of all native freshwater fish species within the River Tweed system We are at the forefront in bringing a professional, scientific approach to fisheries management and are engaged in an extensive programme of biological monitoring, habitat enhancement and education
Through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences, it aims to build knowledge, confidence, and a connection to the natural environment.
Tweed Foundation, Drygrange Steading, Melrose, Roxburghshire, TD6 9DJ
Events Getting the antiques show on the road at Paxton House
One of the borders most historic homes is writing a new chapter as a hot spot for the antique world.
Paxton House's decision to team up with Glam Racket Antique Events has proved a winning combination... as well as providing a welcome boost to the local tourism sector.
Build in the mid-1700s, Paxton House, overlooking the River Tweed from the Scottish side of the border, provides a suitably special backdrop for a programme of three-day events.
The first, held in May, attracted over 1900 visitors who were provided with a feast of antiques and collectibles presented by 80 dealers from across the UK.
The Antiques and Decorative Fair features a large onsite marquee housing 25 dealers, and over 50 outdoor marquees and sellers.
The team behind the successful events, Seppe Anthony, Dennis Davidson and Paul Yousaf previously worked together at Fern Avenue Antiques, in Jesmond, Newcastle.
Last year’s fairs earned rave reviews and attracted a visit from TVs Salvage Hunters.
This year's programme will continue at Paxton House in July (11-13) and September (12-14).
"We are absolutely delighted with the way things have worked out. The feedback from visitors and antiques dealers alike has been tremendous.
"Visitors can relax and enjoy browsing for furniture, decorative pieces, salvage items, jewelry, ceramics, glassware, curiosities, cameras, clothing, and much more," said Seppe.
Hot food, snacks and a bar serving wine and beer complement the picturesque grounds and walks at Paxton House - sounds like a perfect day out.
Engaging issues at Paxton House exhibition
Paxton House is currently staging a major exhibition, Palimpsest, by renowned Grenadian-born multimedia artist and film maker Bill Gerard Frank (above).
The exhibition explores the deep and complex ties between Grenada, Scotland and England, and the legacies of the transatlantic slave trade.
Drawing on Frank's acclaimed Venice Biennale project (Palimpsest: Tales Spun From Sea and Memories) and new works in collaboration with Glasgow Print Studio, the exhibition reimagines hidden narratives, amplifying voices long overlooked.
"It's truly an honour to have my work exhibited at Paxton House, a site deeply intertwined with the histories of Grenada, Ottobah Cugoano, and my own anscetral ties to Scotland.
"At the heart of this exhibition is education - an opportunity to engage communities, particularly young people, in critically examining these tangled histories."
The exhibition is part of a wider programme featuring panels, talks and a cross-cultural educational initiative, Bridging Borders, uniting young epople from Grenada, Scotland and England Palimpsest runs at Paxton House until October 31.
Taking a cultural turn in Hawick's heritage quarter
by Meriem Yahiaoui
The ancient town of Hawick is fast becoming the cultural hub of the Scottish Borders with Unit Four: The Cornucopia Room central to this artistic shift.
Ideally situated with the Heritage Hub and the Heart of Hawick opposite, the Borders Textile Towerhouse around the corner, and the Chattelyard Gallery along with the Damascus Drum café a little further up, Unit Four: The Cornucopia Room is a must-see for all seeking a rich, cultural experience.
"You can browse and buy a carefully curated selection of books and art here at Unit Four: The Cornucopia Room, then carry out some genealogy research at the Heritage Hub, grab a spot of lunch at the Damascus Drum, and finish off with more inspiring art at the Chattelyard Gallery and a thrilling film at the Heart of Hawick," explains events programmer, Stuart Delves, "all within a five-minute walk radius".
Nestled in a quaint courtyard, upon arrival at Unit Four, you are instantly struck by a modern, attractively laid out bookshop and space for hire.
Unit Four stands as the international subscriptions office for Cornucopia Magazine; a biannual, independent publication celebrating its 30th anniversary. The magazine champions all things Turkish, contemporary and historical, including: culture and art, travel and food; with content research sufficiently robust and recognised to be stocked in academic libraries.
When visiting Unit Four, I was impressed by the quality of artistic talent at the art exhibition I attended.
A solo show features artist Jessie Ann Matthew and you are at once immersed in landscape paintings the style of which is reminiscent of two British heavyweights: a hybrid of David Hockney’s more recent digital, iPad drawn landscapes featuring trees, and those of the artist and illustrator, John Nash – brother of war artist, Paul Nash.
You instantly sense her paintings, although truthful to the landscape represented, also have a spark of life, similar to those of John Nash who seemingly follows a diligent process of studying nature rather than relying on the efforts of his imagination.
As a viewer, you gain profound pleasure from looking steadily at Matthew’s tamed and harmonious landscapes.
This contemplative process allows you to come alive strolling through her light-filled, tree-lined paths and forests that reinforce a deep love and respect for nature.
Viewing these landscape paintings by Matthew is akin to a stroll through the woods; you feel invigorated, inspired and more at one with the world.
Other notable events have featured talks and lectures by other worldestablished experts on a variety of topics, including The Chair of Meriem Yahiaoui Friends of the Earth Charitable Trust.
These events take plaxce regularly regularly and are varied in subject matter.
The space for this exhibition can also be fashioned for a range of other events, including but not limited to, film screenings, book launches, musical events and live performances.
Find out more
Anyone interested in attending or featuring in any events or wanting to purchase books and art should use the following contact points...
Where
Unit Four: The Cornucopia Room, 4 Tower Dykeside, Hawick, TD9 9EA
Opening Times
Mondays – Friday 11am – 4 pm
Website: https://www.cornucopia.net/ unit-four/
E-mail: projects@cornucopia.net
Tel: +44 (0)1450 379933
Aiming to please with the Simulated Game
Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate are delighted to announce the launch of their exclusive Simulated Game Shooting Days at the renowned Queensberry Estate.
Offering a truly immersive shooting experience, these curated days provide an unparalleled opportunity for seasoned guns to enjoy the thrill of a game shoot in the stunning Scottish countryside during the Spring and Summer months.
Running through the warmer months, the Simulated Game experience at Drumlanrig replicates the excitement of traditional game shooting, using eco-friendly clays to simulate the renowned partridge and pheasant drives of the estate.
Guests will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including expansive moorlands and established woodlands, delivering an authentic and unforgettable day of shooting.
An Unmatched Shooting Experience, upon arrival at the grand Drumlanrig Castle, teams of 10 (minimum of 8 participants) will be welcomed by the experienced Estate Team before embarking on a day of exhilarating drives.
The experience consists of up to five drives across the estate’s diverse landscapes, ensuring a challenge fit for experienced guns.
What is a Simulated Game Day? Unlike traditional clay pigeon shoots, Simulated Game days replicate the full experience of a traditional game shoot, incorporating multiple locations and premium hospitality
– with one key difference: participants shoot at clays, not live game.
This format provides an exhilarating challenge while preserving the sporting traditions of a driven game shoot.
At Drumlanrig, guests will experience a variety of stunning environments, from fast, low-ground partridge drives around the parkland to high pheasant drives through the estate woodlands.
The team ensures an authentic and meticulously planned event, offering a thrilling sporting experience for all participants.
While Simulated Game Days can be enjoyed year-round, we recommend participating in Spring and Summer when longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures enhance the experience.
For more information or to book your place on one of our exclusive Simulated Game Shooting Days at Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate, please visit Simulated Game | Drumlanrig Castle or email simulatedgame@drumlanrigcastle.co.uk
Border Rail campaign on track
A business case for the potential extension of the Borders Railway beyond Tweedbank to Hawick and Carlisle will be progressed following the appointment of Turner & Townsend in a project management function.
The key appointment will allow several pieces of work to be carried out on the project to assess the benefits and challenges of the railway line’s extension including feasibility work and analysis of the economic impact it would bring to the Borderlands area.
This has been made possible through funding of up to £10million from the UK and Scottish Governments, through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, designed to drive inclusive growth and delivering significant and lasting benefits through regeneration.
The development of the business case for the Borders Railway is a key project within the Borderlands Deal which recognises the potential of such a link to support economic growth.
Following the success of the re-instatement of the Borders Railway to Tweedbank, an extension could improve transport links to towns such as Hawick, which continue to face the effects of recent economic downturns, as well as offering improved connectivity for tourists, commuters and residents alike.
Extending the railway through the heart of the Borderlands could also provide more environmentally friendly transport connections for the places and towns along the route.
Councillor Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “This appointment is a really significant development that will allow important groundwork to be undertaken to establish how feasible an extension to the Borders Railway beyond Tweedbank to Hawick and Carlisle is.
“The tireless work done by the Borderlands Partnership and the local community up until now has made this progress possible and now we will be able to make significant strides forward in clearly outlining the potential benefits an extension of the line could deliver for the local economy and the region as a whole.”
Expanding electric charging network
Scottish Borders Council, in collaboration with other local authorities, is engaginge with the market to expand the public electric vehicle (EV) charging network across the region over the next five years.
Cllr Jenny Linehan, Executive Member for Environment, Sustainability and Transport, said: "Electric vehicle usage is increasing rapidly and we need to act to ensure the network across the region is sufficient to meet demand now and well into the future."
