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COASTAL ESCAP

South of Scotland

Photograph: GSA Biosphere Partnership

South of Scotland Magazine

Here to help you plan ahead

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.

Drumlanrig Castle and Bowhill House have a fabulous xmas programme on offer through December.

15 - 19 Thistle success stories

Another great night for South of Scotland's tourism providers.

10 - 11 A bull with plenty of pull

Meet Kelton, an imposing new welcome for visitors to Caste Douglas.

As we look ahead to the coming months, the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) is focused on one of our region’s biggest priorities: extending the visitor season.

Although the South of Scotland is rich in year-round experiences, our traditional visitor peak remains relatively short.

Through our annual Seasonality Marketing Campaign, delivered via the official destination brand Scotland Starts Here, we are working closely with businesses to change that—by showcasing the magic of autumn, winter and early spring, and inspiring visitors to explore more, stay longer, and return often.

Launched on October 28, 2025 and running through to March 2026, this year’s campaign builds on insights and priorities shared by local businesses.

Our activities—spanning paid social media, themed website content, press partnerships with the Daily Record and Newcastle Chronicle, PR and press trips, seasonal content for members, and a short-break competition—are designed to highlight the distinct character of each season and reach key audiences within a four-hour drivetime.

For visitors, the message is simple: the South of Scotland is real Scotland, real close. Our rolling countryside, big skies

Extending the Visitor Season in the South of Scotland

and relaxed rural pace offer space to breathe and reconnect, while our friendly towns and villages deliver the warmest welcomes.

In autumn, the region glows with colour, ideal for forest walks, wildlife encounters and cosy fireside stays.

Winter brings crisp mornings, star-filled skies, festive markets and exhilarating coastal and countryside adventures.

Early spring signals renewal—blossomlined cycling routes, heritage attractions

reopening their doors, and the perfect conditions for slow travel and mindful experiences.

For our tourism and hospitality businesses, extending the season supports greater resilience and creates quality year-round jobs which help our communities to thrive.

With visitors increasingly seeking short breaks, authenticity and the chance to escape the everyday, the South of Scotland is perfectly positioned to meet that demand.

Our campaign aims to help businesses reach new audiences, strengthen shoulderseason bookings and build a more sustainable visitor economy.

Whether you're a business ready to get involved or a traveller planning your next escape, the message is clear: extraordinary experiences await in the South of Scotland—365 days a year.

If you are a part of the South of Scotland’s visitor economy, join the SSDA today to get involved and help transform tourism in the South.

Scotland Starts Here!

David Hope-Jones OBE, CEO South of Scotland Destination Alliance www.ssdalliance.com www.scotlandstartshere.com

International support for Bedrule kirk campaign

A community led campaign to buy Bedrule Church in the Scottish Borders has become an international success story.

With a history dating back to at least the 13th century and holding special associations with the Turnbull Clanthe chief of Clan Turnbull describes the building as Heritage Ground Zero - the future of Bedrule church was always going to attract outstanding support.

A campaign group, Church Future (BCF), was set up earlier this year and launched an appeal for £50,000 to submit a bid to the Church of Scotland and cover general costs for the first two years.

By October a total of just over £60,000 had poured in to support BCF objectivesan impressive 31% of that total coming from Clan Turnbull sources.

Not surprisingly the achievement made page 1 news in the latest issue of Clan Turnbull’s newsletter, Bullseye, that is distributed worldwide.

BCF is committed to running the building as a community hub and is now preparing to meet with Church of Scotland solicitors to take the formal sale transaction forward.

“We are immensely grateful for the generosity of a host of people who responded to our call for funding the purchase of Bedrule Church. Special mention must be made to the hard work undertaken by Clan Turnbull members whose contribution has been fantastic.

“Heads of Terms have been agreed with the Church of Scotland efforts to conclude the sale are ongoing,” said BCF spokesperson Alan Bailey.

Plans for Bedrule Church include:-

• Continued religious use on a non- denominational basis

• Use as a clan heritage centre,

• Use as a historical hub for Rulewater and the exciting and ongoing archaeological work at Bedrule Castle and the 12 Towers of Rule project,

• To provide visitor information and facilities, and - in conjunction with Bedrule Village Hall – hosting a variety of events.

For more information about the Bedrule Church project, please contact:

• Alan Bailey - office@ruberslaw.co.uk 07751 757487

• Charolotte Maberly - bedrulechurch@gmail.com

It's 7th heaven exploring trails to the stanes

Former world champion mountain biker Tracy Moseley has completed an unforgettable family adventure — riding the 7stanes in 7 days with her husband James, and seven-year-old son, Toby, to inspire other families to get outdoors, explore, and create adventures of their own.

The journey wasn’t just about ticking off trail centres — it was about showing that the South of Scotland’s forests, landscapes, and communities offer endless opportunities for families to connect, discover, and have fun together.

Supported by Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS), the Moseley family travelled by camper van through Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders, visiting all seven 7stanes trail centres — Mabie, Dalbeattie, Kirroughtree, Glentrool, Ae, Glentress, and Innerleithen — before finishing at Newcastleton.

Along the way, they mixed biking with stargazing, forest and beach walks, wild exploring, celebrating the simple joys of being outside together.

Reflecting on the adventure, which will be captured in a short documentary film to be released in the Spring, Tracy said: “Back when the 7Stanes were launched in 2005, I made them a destination to visit as I loved riding new places.

"I loved them, and it felt like an adventure, each with its own special feel ands technical features to challenge yourself with.

"Fast forward 20 years and as a mum I see the challenges of modern life in trying to raise kids with the same spirit of freedom and adventure.

“The 7Stanes are a perfect introduction to mountain biking for families and new riders. They’re also a hidden gem for families who want a safe adventure out in nature.

"For just the car park fee, you can have a full, amazing day out with the family - with something for everyone. You don’t need expensive gear, just a bike, some planning and enthusiasm.

“I wanted my son to feel the same enjoyment and voyage of discovery in his journey as he discovers the 7Stanes with his bike, as I did 20 years ago when I first visited them. Kids don’t need loads of stuff, just give them some outside space, the

freedom to move and play and a classroom for learning in our incredible nature.

“This adventure was never about distance or difficulty,” said Tracy.

“It was about showing other families that adventure can be simple — it’s about time together, new experiences, and discovering what’s in our forests and surrounding areas.

"You don’t have to do all 7stanes in 7 days, this project was always designed to be an inspiration piece.

"Encourage kids away from screens and into nature and you’ll be rewarded by the amazing experiences and lifetime memories you can have together.”

7 Stanes

Tracy, a former Downhill and Enduro World Champion, has a deep connection with the 7stanes — the trails helped shape her racing career and love for Scottish riding.

Three decades later, she returned to share that same sense of discovery with her son, and hopes to inspire families to make their own memories among the forests.

The 7 Stanes are world-class mountain biking centres that span the south of Scotland. 7 Stanes is more than just a name - 'Stane' is the Scots word for stone and at each of the Stanes locations there's a special stone commemorating a local myth or legend.

The stanes are found in prominent locations on the trails in the forests. They’re accessible on foot or by horse as well as by bike, and range in size from one to three metres high and from two to six tons in weight.

More at https://forestryandland.gov.scot›visit›activities›7stanes

A short film documenting the Moseley family’s adventure — produced with support from DMBinS, OS Maps, Hope Academy, SSDA, Osprey Packs, Trek Bikes UK, Dometic, Roadsurfer, Scottish Cycling Foundation, Go Tweed Valley and Forestry and Land Scotland — will be released Spring 2026.

Whether it’s one trail, one day, or one new adventure — Tracy’s message is simple: “Get out there, explore, and make it your own.”

Made for adventure

“This journey beautifully showcases the South of Scotland as a world-class destination for families and riders alike.

The 7stanes are the heart of our cycling story, offering everything from fun green trails to breathtaking views and local experiences you’ll never forget.

“What’s truly special is how the Moseley family’s adventure highlights the region’s sense of welcome and possibility.

Whether you’re new to biking, travelling with children, or just looking for time together in nature, the South of Scotland has something for everyone.

Our forests, communities, and landscapes are made for adventure — and we hope Tracy’s story inspires more families to come, explore, and create their own unforgettable memories here.”

David Hope-Jones, Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance

“When Tracy approached us with this idea, we were excited to support and help make her vision come to life. This story perfectly captures what mountain biking in Scotland is all about, nature, adventure, connection, and community.

"You don’t have to be an experienced rider to enjoy the 7stanes. These forests are places where families can play, learn, and make memories together.”

Colena Cotter, Communications and Business Support Manager at Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland

Kelton's a bull with plenty of pull for Castle Douglas

Meet Kelton the Belted Galloway - weighing in at one tonne and standing at three metres high, the giant willow statute provides an imposing welcome for visitors to Castle Douglas.

Affectionately known locally as Keltie the Beltie, the landmark standing on Market Hill is the creation of artist Trevor Leat, one of the foremost creators of willow sculptures in the UK.

The bull is also testament to local agricultural traditions and inspired commendable cross-community led efforts to organise a restoration project.

Installed at Market Hill six years ago, Kelton, when not in situ, toured the country, making guest appearances at top events that, over time, left him in urgent need of a re-weave.

Cllr Pauline Drysdale and the Kelton sub-group joined forces with the Castle Douglas Development Forum to get the ball rolling to raise funds.

"The original Kelton toured the country and became a much loved and iconic structure. However, local people in Castle Douglas and surrounds wanted a permanent fixture to sybolise our market town as the gateway to Galloway and to honour our deep agricultural roots.

"Kelton helps us reconnect with the landscape and puts Castle Douglas and Galloway firmly back on the map for locals and tourists alike," she said.

Carolyn Yates, chair of Castle Douglas Development Forum, added: "It has been an honour to help co-ordinate the restoration of Kelton on behalf of the community and to be able to commission work from a local artist, with an international reputation, has been icing on the cake."

• Trevor Leat is known for creating lifesize animals and figures, through to giant willow sculptures spectacularly burned at festivals and events such as The Wickerman Festival, The Edinburgh Hogmanay Celebrations and The Burns Light Festival in Dumfries.

Pride

of place

Above: Kelton on Market Hill

with (l to r) Trevor Leat, Cllr

Pauline Drysdale, Malcolm Williams from Castle Douglas Development Forum and George Dickson, Castle Douglas Rotary Club, .

Left: Cathy Agnew, former head of Dumfries and Galloway Arts Organisation who has been a stalwart supporter of the community driven restoration project.

Kelton the Beltie

A community led project initiated by Kelton Sub Group

Castle Douglas Development Forum

Paying tribute to service for the Borders

After nine years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the Lord-Lieutenancy of Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale, the Duke of Buccleuch’s retirement from the role was officially marked at an event at the Tapestry Building in Galashiels.

The Duke has a distinguished career in public life and philanthropy, serving as President of the National Trust for Scotland, Trustee of the Royal Collection Trust, Patron of the Abbotsford Trust and sponsor of the Walter Scott Prize, presented annually at the Borders Book Festival.

Scottish Borders Council Convener, Cllr Watson McAteer, above right with the Duke, thanked him on behalf of the Scottish Borders community.

He also welcomed the new Lord Lieutenant farmer and former Scottish Internatonal rugby player John Jeffrey (below right). He has been a prominent figure in promoting the sport and ensuring its growth and development in Scotland.

Festive fun for all A December to remember

The festive season gets into full swing at Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate through December.

It is set to sparkle with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Christmas, hosting festive events and activities for all ages.

The Estate invites visitors to step into a winter wonderland filled with tradition, creativity, and heart-warming experiences, from wreath-making and Christmas markets to meeting Santa himself.

Here's what's on the Christmas menu...

Santa’s Grotto - Saturday 5 – Sunday 21 December

Santa’s elves have been hard at work transforming Drumlanrig’s historic Stableyard into a cosy Christmas Grotto. Little ones can step into a world of festive magic and meet jolly old Saint Nick himself, share their wish list, capture a festive photo, and, of course, receive a magical gift to take home.

Christmas Market - Saturday 6 & Sunday 7 December

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Castle, enjoy a dedicated Christmas shopping experience bringing a fantastic variety of stalls and businesses to a heated marquee on the oval lawn.

The event brings together artisan stalls, local crafts, and bespoke gift finds, alongside tempting food, mulled wine, and warming seasonal treats. Visiotrs can also enjoy full access to the Castle’s gardens and grounds.

A charity tombola run by Cash for Kids adds a dash of community spirit to the celebrations.

Wreath Making Workshop - December 11 and 12

Embrace the season’s creativity with an exclusive wreath-making workshops at Dabton House.

Festive Craft Workshops - Tuesday 2, 9 & 16 December

Let your little makers get creative at Drumlanrig’s hands-on seasonal workshops. Hosted in the charming Stableyard, children can craft festive decorations and keepsakes to take home, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to the Christmas season.

Castle Tours – Daytime & Evening

Step inside the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle and experience its festive transformation. Join a guided tour to explore opulent rooms, marvel at masterpieces from the world-renowned Buccleuch art collection, and uncover over 600 years of Douglas family history.

For something extra special, book an exclusive evening tour complete with canapés and fizz, a truly enchanting way to experience the Castle after dark.

Whether you’re looking to shop, create, explore, or simply soak up the seasonal cheer, there’s something for everyone at Drumlanrig this December.

Drumlanrig Castle

...at Drumlanrig ...and Bowhill Bowhill House

For more information and to book tickets, visit: Christmas Events || Drumlanrig Castle www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk/event/christmas-events/

This Christmas, Bowhill House & Grounds invites visitors to step into a world of warmth, wonder, and festive cheer with its enchanting seasonal events, Tinsel, Toys and All the Joys.

From family experiences to creative workshops and winter walks, Bowhill promises a Christmas celebration brimming with tradition, magic, and memories waiting to be made.

Friday to Sunday throughout December, Bowhill’s picturesque grounds will come alive with festive activity.

For those looking to embrace their creative side, Bowhill’s Kids’ Craft Workshops offer the perfect opportunity for younger visitors to get hands-on with festive fun.

Children can unleash their imaginations making Christmas keepsakes and decorations, from baubles to dancing Santas, to take home and hang proudly on the tree.

Adults are not forgotten either, with the return of Bowhill’s ever-popular Wreath Making Workshops on December 9 to11. Using natural materials gathered from the estate, participants can craft their own beautiful wreath while enjoying a hot drink and festive treat in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Santa’s Grotto - Friday 5 – Sunday 7, Friday 12 – Sunday 14, Friday 19 – Sunday 21.

Children can meet Santa Claus, share their Christmas wish list, and receive a special gift to take home. Families are invited to capture the moment with a festive photo, creating memories to treasure for years to come.

More at https://www.bowhillhouse.co.uk/event/santas-grotto/ Breakfast with Santa - Friday 5 – Sunday 7, Friday 12 –Sunday 14, Friday 19 – Sunday 21. More at https://www. bowhillhouse.co.uk/event/breakfast-with-santa/

Kids’ Craft Workshops - Friday 5 – Sunday 7, Friday 12 –Sunday 14, Friday 19 – Sunday 21. Get crafty this Christmas with our kids seasonal craft workshops. The perfect hands on session for children to unleash their creativity, making festive keepsakes and decorations to take home.

We have two crafting sessions each day, one more suited to older kids, and another more general for children of all ages. This event will take place in the Courtyard Gallery at Bowhill. More at https://www.bowhillhouse.co.uk/event/christmascraft-workshops/

Wreath Making - Tuesday 9 – Thursday 11. Bowhill welcomes the return on its popular wreath making workshops, the perfect activity to get you feeling festive. Join us for a morning or evening sessions.

Get into the festive spirit and create your own Christmas wreath using materials sourced on the estate itself. Enjoy a hot drink and festive sweet treat as you make your own masterpiece to adorn your front door. More at https://www. bowhillhouse.co.uk/event/wreath-making/

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.bowhillhouse.co.uk.

Melrose Takes a Crafty Turn

by Meriem Yahiaoui

Every object tells a story, but a work of art arrests your vision and invites you to linger alittle longer and ponder on its beauty and complexity.

Be it a practical object we utilize in everyday life like crockery, or a unique gift to show someone our appreciation such as an item of jewellery, whatever you desire and seek, you will surely find in Melrose at The Crafters - an arts and crafts outlet like no other.

The Crafters is an eclectic craft shop that showcases the artworks of 13 local talented artists and designers; formed back in 1998 as a co-operative, creative enterprise uniting artists and craftspeople in the Borders to share the skill and joy they each invest in the making of unique pieces of art.

In connecting and curating different artforms and bringing their unique elements into close proximity with each other, this cross pollination within the intimate space of The Crafters shop allows for a rich visual experience.

In wandering around, time felt suspended whilst I marveled at the visual feasts on display. If you feel inclined to add small little design touches to your home, then you will be spoilt for choice at The Crafters in Melrose.

From statement pieces to functional furnishings, what particularly caught my eye were the intricate and clever designs of glassware by the father and son duo, Peter and Andrew of Holmes Glass in Selkirk.

Using elements of nature for inspiration, you will find abstract paperweights that emit joy and spontaneity with their painterly finish.

More practical yet poetic everyday items are also on offer with vases and bowels that create striking centre pieces, enabling you to beautify your home without spending a fortune.

Also on offer are bespoke ceramics and handmade clocks, along with fashion and textile creations for all ages, and beauty and selfcare products, to name but a few items for sale.

These objects of art are always detailed and refined in craftsmanship, and the varied, bright and colourful spectrum on offer instantly lifts your mood, brightens your day, and makes everyday rituals feel a little more special.

Go Crafters

The Crafters, 5, Market Square, Melrose, TD6 9PQ Open Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm.

E: thecraftersmelrose@gmail.com

W: https://thecrafters.co.uk T: 01896 823 823

Leading lights of tourism and hospitality in the South of Scotland celebrated at the national Scottish Thistle Awards ceremony in Glasgow, winning in five award catgories.

There were three winners from the Scottish Borders and two from Dumfries and Galloway.

The roll of honour incuded another outstanding win for the Cross Keys Inn to record a hatrick of national successes in three years.

With finalists representing the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway in 17 award categories against counterparts from the rest of the country, the awards ceremony in Glasgow showcased the impressive scope and quality of the South of Scotland’s burgeoning visitor economy.

The South of Scotland winners of the Scottish Thistle Awards were:

Dumfries and Galloway

Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay

Loch Ken Eco Bothies, nr Castle Douglas

Best Luxury Experience

Knockinaam Lodge, nr Portpatrick

Scottish Borders Innovation Award

Trimontium Museum, Melrose

Outstanding Sporting Event

Tour of Britain 2024 — Scottish Borders

Best Pub or Bar

Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge

Planning is already under way for the next South of Scotland Thistle Awards in 2026, with entries due to go live in the spring.

A region that continues to shine

“Once again the South of Scotland’s tourism, hospitality and events sector has shown just how exceptional it is. From eco-friendly stays in the heart of nature to major cycling events, our region continues to shine on the national stage.

“This is another fantastic year for the South of Scotland. With five of our finalists taking home awards, it’s our second-best year in the long history of these prestigious awards.

“We’re incredibly proud of our tourism and hospitality sector, the heartbeat of our local economy. Everyone who participated in our third South of Scotland Thistle Awards contributes to the outstanding level of excellence the region is increasingly being recognised for.

“I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to all of the finalists and winners of the national Scottish Thistle Awards.”

David Hope-Jones Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA)

Trips and Trails

Nature adventures win national award

The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership carried off a major award at this year's RSPB Scotland's Nature of Scotland Awards.

GSABP won the coveted Nature Tourism Award for its Biosphere Experiences.

The Nature-Friendly Adventures for All programme supports sustainable leisure and hospitality, and to deliver unique, meaningful visitor experiences that centre connecting with nature.

Biosphere Experiences are tours and self-guided discoveries that connect visitors with nature, history and culture in the UNESCO Biosphere region.

They include Low Carbon Days Out (LCDO), which encourage exploration by bike, bus and rail; themed adventures ‘The Sky Above’, ‘The Earth Beneath’, and ‘The Spirit Within’; and diverse outdoor experiences led by Biosphere Guides certified through GSABP’s own training course.

UNESCO Biosphere status signifies the importance of southwest Scotland within the global tapestry of natural and cultural heritage.

The Nature of Scotland Awards recognises individuals and organisations making a difference across local communities, schools, and businesses to support Scotland’s wildlife and natural environment.

Ed Forrest, Director of the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, said: “What an incredible honour to have won the Nature Tourism category in this year’s Nature of Scotland Awards!

"On behalf of the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership’s trustees and officer team I’d like express our pride and absolute delight.

"We are a small charity covering a vast and amazing region –southwest Scotland’s UNESCO Biosphere – working with local businesses, social enterprise and our rural communities to ensure tourism is a force for good.

"We will take the Nature of Scotland Award as inspiration to continue finding new and creative ways to deliver fantastic Biosphere Experiences that centre our world class natural heritage,” he said.

Anne McCall, Director of RSPB Scotland said: “What a joy to see the Nature of Scotland Awards shining a light on the growing number of passionate and hardworking people doing so much for nature and climate.

"A massive congratulations to our inspirational winners. It is incredibly heartening to see the terrific conservation work happening in every corner of the country. Thank you for everything you do.”

More information about the GSA Biosphere Partnership and Biosphere Experiences is available at www.gsabiosphere.org.uk.

Award winning team (l to r): Arlene Stuart (BBC Scotland Lanward presenter), Ed Forrest (Director, Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere) Fiona Carruthers (Sustainability Growth Manager, VisitScotland), Dr Anna Griffin (Nature Recovery Manager, Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere), Iolo Williams (BBC Springwatch presenter).

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Celebrating textiles and quilts in the Scottish Borders

Creative travellers are in for a treat in spring 2026 when two historic venues in the Scottish Borders open their doors to display textiles and quilts.

Both The Haining (top right) and Abbotsford (right), the historic home of Sir Walter Scott, offer visitors not only inspiring exhibitions, but beautiful woodland walks and stunning architecture — a perfect blend of art, heritage and nature.

There’ll be opportunities for some retail therapy and refreshments at both venues, with plenty of time to wander, chat with makers, and soak up the creative spirit of the Borders in full spring bloom.

Save the dates!

Quilts 2026 (24-25 April 2026)

The Borders Modern Quilt Guild (BMQG) is celebrating a decade of creativity and community with its first-ever public exhibition - ‘Quilts 2026’- taking place at The Haining, a beautiful eighteenth-century manor house in Selkirk.

The exhibition will feature over 100 quilts and quilted objects, tracing the groups vibrant journey since it was founded in 2016.

The group reflects the spirit of the quilting community, fostering creativity and friendships, sharing skills and stories, and promoting wellbeing through the act of making.

The Haining, gifted to the people of Selkirk for their enjoyment and wellbeing, provides a fitting home for this celebration.

‘Enclosed I Will Be Safe’ Textile Art Exhibition (13-17 May 2026)

Textile Artist-in-Residence, Sheena Stone, is showcasing a trail of textile art pieces in the grounds of Abbotsford’s breathtaking walled gardens.

The exhibition celebrates the restorative power of trees, woodland and nature, a theme embraced by Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) during his lifetime at Abbotsford to the benefit of his own mental wellbeing.

Scott was never happier than when working in his woodland: 'planting and pruning trees I could work at from morning to night.' www.scottsabbotsford.com

Conservation coup for our red squirrels

South of Scotland members of the Red Squirrel Recovery Network has welcomed a scientific breakthrough that could become a champion for future conservation programmes.

Red squirel populations and habitts have been under pressure from their grey cousins for many years, reaching critical threat levels in some parts of Scotland.

The breakthrough comes in the form of a digestable contraceptive that has been shown to be effective when used on rats.

The research, led by the UK Government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), found that rats in a lab setting were rendered infertile by ingesting a contraceptive in the form of a vaccine.

The treatment triggers an immune response that causes the body to produce antibodies against reproductive hormones, interfering with the reproductive system and causing infertility.

The vaccine is contained in a capsule, made from plant pollen spores by Sporomex, which is designed to have minimal environmental impact, and can be added to food bait.

The news comes as the pioneering charity Restoring Upland Nature (RUN - the new home of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project) was revealed as the latest organisation to join the cross-border Network.

RUN will work alongside the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership and Selkirk-based charity Bright Green Nature in the South of Scotland to support the five-year programme, which recently received £4.8million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Through their ‘Don’t Be Shy’ initiative, the Network of over 50 organisations and groups across northern England and southern Scotland is currently seeking to raise awareness, encourage community involvement and promote conservation of the country's beloved red squirrel population.

Confirming their involvement, Michael Clarke, Chair of Restoring Upland Nature (RUN) said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to support the Herculean efforts of everyone in the Red Squirrel Recovery Network – from landowners to red squirrel rescue groups.

"Our involvement comes at a particularly exciting time for the Network, as the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute has revealed key developments in the production of contraceptives for wild grey squirrels. This could potentially be transformative for the future of red squirrels.

“It is fantastic to be part of such an inspiring initiative bringing fresh

energy and a sense of shared purpose to safeguarding the future of red squirrels in the south of Scotland.

We look forward to sharing our learnings and working more closely with landowners, red squirrel groups and our local communities, so that this initiative can experience the same success as we have had with the pioneering South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project.

Network Partners are encouraging people to activity participate in their ‘Don’t Be Shy’, a campaign highlighting their work to address critical threats to red squirrels, including habitat loss, competition from grey squirrels, and disease.

Members of the public can participate by reporting squirrel sightings via scottishsquirrels.org.uk/squirrel-sightings or rsne.org/reportsightings

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.

Tweed Foundation, Drygrange Steading, Melrose, Roxburghshire, TD6 9DJ