The shops are getting busier and everyone is rushing around preparing for Christmas.
The run up to Christmas can be exciting, but, unfortunately, it can also be a time when shoppers get aggressive towards shopworkers. When items are out of stock or the queues are long, people are often stressed and have a very short fuse.
Nearly a third of shopworkers have been verbally abused in the past month. This is clearly not acceptable. They are under a lot of pressure, often working long hours, and are just trying to do their job.
Think again before becoming aggressive, keep your cool and give shopworkers the respect they deserve this Christmas.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
What's your favourite Christmas song?
WHENin comes to Christmas we’re just a load of old softies!
It’s official the nation’s favourite Christmas song is …Driving Home for Christmas.
In a recent poll carried out by One4all gift cards the Chris Rea classic topped the charts with 33% of the votes, closely followed by Do They Know It’s Christmas by Band Aid (26%) and Wham’s Last Christmas (23%).
It seems that at Christmas we soften up a bit and go for a mellow feel to life, and that’s not just in music.
The title of favourite Christmas movie is pretty evenly spread between Home Alone (27%) Love Actually (24%) and It’s A Wonderful Life (23%).
But there was one clear winning in the Christmas Carol category, with 43% of the votes, Silent Night.
It’s official the nation’s favourite Christmas song is …Driving Home for Christmas.
In a recent poll carried out by One4all gift cards the Chris Rea classic topped the charts with 33% of the votes, closely followed by Do They Know It’s Christmas by Band Aid (26%) and Wham’s Last Christmas (23%).
It seems that at Christmas we soften up a bit and go for a mellow feel to life, and that’s not just in music.
The title of favourite Christmas movie is pretty evenly spread between Home Alone (27%) Love Actually (24%) and It’s A Wonderful Life (23%).
But there was one clear winning in the Christmas Carol category, with 43% of the votes, Silent Night.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
New Forth Road Bridge
RESULTS from a YouGov poll released last week indicate that just 34% of Scots support SNP plans for a new road bridge over the Forth, while 57% believe the existing Forth Road Bridge should be repaired.
According to the Scottish Government, the new bridge is currently expected to cost up to £2,300 million. The Forth Estuary Transport Authority estimates that repairing the existing bridge would cost just £122 million.
Later this month the Scottish Government is expected to publish legislation which would authorise the new bridge if approved.
According to the Scottish Government, the new bridge is currently expected to cost up to £2,300 million. The Forth Estuary Transport Authority estimates that repairing the existing bridge would cost just £122 million.
Later this month the Scottish Government is expected to publish legislation which would authorise the new bridge if approved.
Bagpipes run out of puff
SCOTSCARE, the London based Scottish charity has announced the shortlist for Scotland’s Greatest Contribution to the World with the winner to be announced to mark St Andrew’s Day.
The charity has previously conducted St Andrew’s Day searches for Scotland’s favourite Comedy Moment and Scotland’s Favourite Song.
Currently out in the lead is Penicillin which was discovered by scientist and Nobel laureate Alexander Flemming, in 1928. This is perhaps unsurprisingly followed closely by our national drink, whisky.
Others to make the short list of eight include Television, Rab C Nesbitt, Golf, and the Scotland’s favourite Irn Bru.
The most surprising contributions not to make the shortlist are surely bagpipes and the telephone which received no votes at all. Nessie, Robert Louis Stevenson and even the deep fried Mars Bar were also unfortunate not to make the final eight.
Votes can be placed on ScotsCare’s website, www.scotscrae.com.______________________________________________________________________
The charity has previously conducted St Andrew’s Day searches for Scotland’s favourite Comedy Moment and Scotland’s Favourite Song.
Currently out in the lead is Penicillin which was discovered by scientist and Nobel laureate Alexander Flemming, in 1928. This is perhaps unsurprisingly followed closely by our national drink, whisky.
Others to make the short list of eight include Television, Rab C Nesbitt, Golf, and the Scotland’s favourite Irn Bru.
The most surprising contributions not to make the shortlist are surely bagpipes and the telephone which received no votes at all. Nessie, Robert Louis Stevenson and even the deep fried Mars Bar were also unfortunate not to make the final eight.
Votes can be placed on ScotsCare’s website, www.scotscrae.com.______________________________________________________________________
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Swine flu - listen to the experts
THIS week saw the start of the swine flu vaccination programme in the Borders.
It came just two days ahead of the funeral of the young local teenage mum-to-be who died in the Borders General Hospital as a result of the virus.
While experts say that the majority of those unfortunate enough to contract swine flu will experience only mild symptoms and make a quick recovery, the illness can cause serious problems for those with underlying existing health issues.
Although there have been some concerns raised over the new vaccine, experts insist it is safe and NHS Borders is right to urge all those in the health priority groups, including pregnant women, to take up the offer of the jab when it comes.
So far just over 100 people with swine flu have died in the UK (two in the Borders) out of about 500,000 who have been infected. But we are now coming into traditional peak flu season and it is vital that people not only observe strict hygiene procedures but take up the vaccination offer promptly.
It is also important that nurses and other medical staff set an example by getting vaccinated. In the fight against the pandemic, they are the frontline of our defence and over the next few months they have to try to remain fit and healthy to help care for and protect the rest of us.
As well as taking up the vaccination offers, we need to do what we can to try to avoid adding to the workload of medical staff who will be even more hard-pressed if the pandemic takes off.
So please exercise common sense when it comes to basic hygiene measures and listen to advice issued by NHS Borders.
It came just two days ahead of the funeral of the young local teenage mum-to-be who died in the Borders General Hospital as a result of the virus.
While experts say that the majority of those unfortunate enough to contract swine flu will experience only mild symptoms and make a quick recovery, the illness can cause serious problems for those with underlying existing health issues.
Although there have been some concerns raised over the new vaccine, experts insist it is safe and NHS Borders is right to urge all those in the health priority groups, including pregnant women, to take up the offer of the jab when it comes.
So far just over 100 people with swine flu have died in the UK (two in the Borders) out of about 500,000 who have been infected. But we are now coming into traditional peak flu season and it is vital that people not only observe strict hygiene procedures but take up the vaccination offer promptly.
It is also important that nurses and other medical staff set an example by getting vaccinated. In the fight against the pandemic, they are the frontline of our defence and over the next few months they have to try to remain fit and healthy to help care for and protect the rest of us.
As well as taking up the vaccination offers, we need to do what we can to try to avoid adding to the workload of medical staff who will be even more hard-pressed if the pandemic takes off.
So please exercise common sense when it comes to basic hygiene measures and listen to advice issued by NHS Borders.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Mirror, mascara, manoeuvre
ALMOST one fifth of women admit they have put on make up whilst driving, putting themselves and other road users at risk, a new poll has revealed.
Women’s car insurance specialist, Diamond quizzed more than 4,000 women on their driving habits and discovered surprisingly high numbers of them take unnecessary risks by applying their make up behind the wheel.
18% of the women questioned said they had have applied make up while driving, while more than 3% said they had also crashed their car as a result of it.
Diamond managing director, Sian Lewis said, “It’s worrying that quite so many women admit to this. With more than 15 million women drivers in the UK*, this could be as many as 2.7 million women regularly applying their make up whilst driving on UK roads.
“We all have busy lives but applying your make up when you’re driving means your full attention is not on the road ahead. Is your mascara more important than yours and other road users’ safety? Even if you’re lucky enough to arrive at your destination safely, you could be charged with careless driving if spotted by the police.”
Women’s car insurance specialist, Diamond quizzed more than 4,000 women on their driving habits and discovered surprisingly high numbers of them take unnecessary risks by applying their make up behind the wheel.
18% of the women questioned said they had have applied make up while driving, while more than 3% said they had also crashed their car as a result of it.
Diamond managing director, Sian Lewis said, “It’s worrying that quite so many women admit to this. With more than 15 million women drivers in the UK*, this could be as many as 2.7 million women regularly applying their make up whilst driving on UK roads.
“We all have busy lives but applying your make up when you’re driving means your full attention is not on the road ahead. Is your mascara more important than yours and other road users’ safety? Even if you’re lucky enough to arrive at your destination safely, you could be charged with careless driving if spotted by the police.”
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Credit where credit is due
ALL too often we are prepared to criticise our NHS but rarely to we praise them.
I just thought I would take this opportunity to say what a good service we get here in Berwickshire from NHS Borders. They are indeed impressive in terms of their waiting lists performance - they are well within Government guidelines and were described as "extremely impressive" in their recent annual review.
On a personal note, any dealings I have had with NHS Borders of late have left me full of praise for them so well done and keep up the good work.
I just thought I would take this opportunity to say what a good service we get here in Berwickshire from NHS Borders. They are indeed impressive in terms of their waiting lists performance - they are well within Government guidelines and were described as "extremely impressive" in their recent annual review.
On a personal note, any dealings I have had with NHS Borders of late have left me full of praise for them so well done and keep up the good work.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Extreme lengths
WANNABE home-owners are going to extreme lengths to raise money to buy their first home according to new research.
The survey found that 24 per cent of all Scots admitted to gambling in an attempt to fund a house deposit, compared to just 16 per cent across the whole of England and Wales.
One in four people who are considering purchasing their first property say they would undergo clinical trials to save money – equivalent to over a million people across the UK. Meanwhile an astonishing seven per cent of people in the UK who are looking to buy their first home say they would consider selling a major organ – equivalent to the population of Iceland (300,000)!
The survey found that 24 per cent of all Scots admitted to gambling in an attempt to fund a house deposit, compared to just 16 per cent across the whole of England and Wales.
One in four people who are considering purchasing their first property say they would undergo clinical trials to save money – equivalent to over a million people across the UK. Meanwhile an astonishing seven per cent of people in the UK who are looking to buy their first home say they would consider selling a major organ – equivalent to the population of Iceland (300,000)!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Should Burley stay or go?
DEFEAT by the Netherlands at Hampden on Wednesday night was the final blow to Scotland's World Cup 2010 campaign.
George Burley's team finished third in Group Nine behind the Netherlands and Norway and so failed to stay in the running for a play-off place.
In modern football, the manager is generally where the buck stops and Burley is due to meet with his Scottish Football Association bosses next week to discuss the way forward for the national team.
Since taking over in January 2008, Burley has won three games from a possible 12, although there have been shoots of recovery in the final group matches against Macedonia and the Netherlands.
I pose the question - should Burley stay or go? Let us know you views.
George Burley's team finished third in Group Nine behind the Netherlands and Norway and so failed to stay in the running for a play-off place.
In modern football, the manager is generally where the buck stops and Burley is due to meet with his Scottish Football Association bosses next week to discuss the way forward for the national team.
Since taking over in January 2008, Burley has won three games from a possible 12, although there have been shoots of recovery in the final group matches against Macedonia and the Netherlands.
I pose the question - should Burley stay or go? Let us know you views.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Wuff justice!
LOVE thy neighbour – unless they own a pet.
New research shows that a fifth of people have fallen out with their neighbours following an argument about their cat or dog.
This means that 4.3million UK households find their neighbour’s pets a constant source of annoyance.
The poll of 3,000 homeowners, conducted by Esure, reveals 37 per cent of Brits have been kept awake at night due to the loud barking of the neighbour’s dog.
Sixteen per cent have complained to the neighbours about the noise of the dog, and seven per cent have been so aggravated they phoned the RSPCA or police.
The nation’s pooches are also responsible for scaring 12 per cent of children, who are terrified to walk out of their front door in case they come face to face with next door’s dog.
As a result, six per cent of homeowners claim to have reported the offending pet to the police after fearing for their family’s safety.
And 11 per cent of dogs have been blamed for chewing up plants, toys and garden possessions.
But dogs aren’t the only offending pets, as neighbouring cats also cause problems for homeowners.
A third of people have returned home to find next-door’s cat sleeping happily in their house, after getting in through their cat flap or open window.
Cats are also guilty of digging up nine per cent of the nation’s gardens, simply to go to the toilet.
TOP 10 PET ANNOYANCES
1. Barking dogs
2. Cats or dogs fowling in the garden
3. Cats or dogs howling in the night
4. Aggressive dogs
5. Cats fighting
6. Bad smell of dirty pets
7. Whining cats
8. Cats bringing dead animals into the house or garden
9. Trespassing cats and dogs
10. Damage to property
New research shows that a fifth of people have fallen out with their neighbours following an argument about their cat or dog.
This means that 4.3million UK households find their neighbour’s pets a constant source of annoyance.
The poll of 3,000 homeowners, conducted by Esure, reveals 37 per cent of Brits have been kept awake at night due to the loud barking of the neighbour’s dog.
Sixteen per cent have complained to the neighbours about the noise of the dog, and seven per cent have been so aggravated they phoned the RSPCA or police.
The nation’s pooches are also responsible for scaring 12 per cent of children, who are terrified to walk out of their front door in case they come face to face with next door’s dog.
As a result, six per cent of homeowners claim to have reported the offending pet to the police after fearing for their family’s safety.
And 11 per cent of dogs have been blamed for chewing up plants, toys and garden possessions.
But dogs aren’t the only offending pets, as neighbouring cats also cause problems for homeowners.
A third of people have returned home to find next-door’s cat sleeping happily in their house, after getting in through their cat flap or open window.
Cats are also guilty of digging up nine per cent of the nation’s gardens, simply to go to the toilet.
TOP 10 PET ANNOYANCES
1. Barking dogs
2. Cats or dogs fowling in the garden
3. Cats or dogs howling in the night
4. Aggressive dogs
5. Cats fighting
6. Bad smell of dirty pets
7. Whining cats
8. Cats bringing dead animals into the house or garden
9. Trespassing cats and dogs
10. Damage to property
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Sports pitches for Duns
AT long last it seems that Duns is to have rugby and football pitches in the town.
The latest amendments to the Local Plan reveal that both Duns Rugby Club and Duns Amateur Football Club are to get pitches at the old Berwickshire High School. Currenly Duns RFC have to play outwith the town at The Hardens while the football club play two miles away at Gavinton.
This can only be good news for both clubs and hopefully they will go from strength to strength an attract more supporters to their weekend matches.
The latest amendments to the Local Plan reveal that both Duns Rugby Club and Duns Amateur Football Club are to get pitches at the old Berwickshire High School. Currenly Duns RFC have to play outwith the town at The Hardens while the football club play two miles away at Gavinton.
This can only be good news for both clubs and hopefully they will go from strength to strength an attract more supporters to their weekend matches.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Top Ten Tips for Staying Free of Flu
CASES of swine flu in the Borders are increasing and the reality is that it will be coming to an office, school or home near you.
However, as with any flu, there are some very sensible steps you can take to make sure that you don’t get ill in the first place – or if you do, you don’t get hit too badly.
1. Stay healthy – Eat well, sleep well and stay hydrated. Avoid excessive stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise.
2. Boost your immune system – Take supplements that are proven immune boosters. Don’t wait to get ill, protect yourself with Immulina – the latest and most powerful natural immune booster on the market with respect to macrophage activation.
3. Cleanliness is next to Godliness - Maintain cleanliness, carry disinfectant for your hands and remember not to touch your face.
4. A clean environment is as good as a clean person - The H1N1 virus can be passed from person to person by coughing or sneezing but it can also be passed by touching and an object, such as a door handle, which has the virus on it. Clean hard surfaces frequently using a normal cleaning product.
5. Avoid people who are infected - This does not mean you need to get out the gas mask every time somebody sneezes but if somebody you know is infected you can help them without getting yourself ill.
6. Settle down while the virus is at its peak - Avoid excessive exposure to clubs and bars and other places where drinking and/or smoking weaken your immune system and expose you to greater risk of infection.
7. Plan ahead - Stay away from public transport as much as possible and avoid unnecessary travel, especially during rush hours!
8. Keep your office and home well ventilated – This will minimise exposure to airborne viruses that may be coming from workmates/family.
9. Tell them not to be a hero - Persuade ill colleagues to stay at home if they suspect they are infected as coming in could see the whole office out of action.
10. Put social graces aside - Do the dainty ‘air kiss’ greeting instead and make sure you have antibacterial gel nearby if you need to shake hands
However, as with any flu, there are some very sensible steps you can take to make sure that you don’t get ill in the first place – or if you do, you don’t get hit too badly.
1. Stay healthy – Eat well, sleep well and stay hydrated. Avoid excessive stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise.
2. Boost your immune system – Take supplements that are proven immune boosters. Don’t wait to get ill, protect yourself with Immulina – the latest and most powerful natural immune booster on the market with respect to macrophage activation.
3. Cleanliness is next to Godliness - Maintain cleanliness, carry disinfectant for your hands and remember not to touch your face.
4. A clean environment is as good as a clean person - The H1N1 virus can be passed from person to person by coughing or sneezing but it can also be passed by touching and an object, such as a door handle, which has the virus on it. Clean hard surfaces frequently using a normal cleaning product.
5. Avoid people who are infected - This does not mean you need to get out the gas mask every time somebody sneezes but if somebody you know is infected you can help them without getting yourself ill.
6. Settle down while the virus is at its peak - Avoid excessive exposure to clubs and bars and other places where drinking and/or smoking weaken your immune system and expose you to greater risk of infection.
7. Plan ahead - Stay away from public transport as much as possible and avoid unnecessary travel, especially during rush hours!
8. Keep your office and home well ventilated – This will minimise exposure to airborne viruses that may be coming from workmates/family.
9. Tell them not to be a hero - Persuade ill colleagues to stay at home if they suspect they are infected as coming in could see the whole office out of action.
10. Put social graces aside - Do the dainty ‘air kiss’ greeting instead and make sure you have antibacterial gel nearby if you need to shake hands
Hollywood comes to Duns!
I'VE always championed Berwickshire as one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland with some wonderful scenery and attractions so it is great to see Manderston, near Duns, being used as the setting for another new film.
I am sure Richard E. Grant and Sarah Brightman will agree that Manderston is a superb location for a film and hopefully they get to see more of our pictureque countryside.
The filming of 'Cosi' can only benefit the local economy. With over 90 cast and crew staying in the area for the duration of the film shoot local businesses will certainly enjoy the spin-offs.
I am sure Richard E. Grant and Sarah Brightman will agree that Manderston is a superb location for a film and hopefully they get to see more of our pictureque countryside.
The filming of 'Cosi' can only benefit the local economy. With over 90 cast and crew staying in the area for the duration of the film shoot local businesses will certainly enjoy the spin-offs.
Guinea pigs could be the new pet trend
ISN'T is amazing how a new movie can create the latest craze.
It is now feared that a rise in guinea pig ownership, following the release of the new G-Force movie, could have serious animal welfare consequences.
The Disney film released this week features animated guinea pig characters as heroes and leading veterinary charity PDSA are worried that young animal lovers will be unable to differentiate between reality and fiction, and are warning that no family should take on a pet without fully understanding the responsibilities involved.
What is the world coming to?
It is now feared that a rise in guinea pig ownership, following the release of the new G-Force movie, could have serious animal welfare consequences.
The Disney film released this week features animated guinea pig characters as heroes and leading veterinary charity PDSA are worried that young animal lovers will be unable to differentiate between reality and fiction, and are warning that no family should take on a pet without fully understanding the responsibilities involved.
What is the world coming to?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Fallago Rig inquiry farce
THE U-turn by the Ministry of Defence is just the latest twist in the controversy surrounding last year's public inquiry into plans for a wind farm at Fallago Rig in our beautiful Lammermuir Hills.
Both Scottish Borders Council and East Lothian Council opposed the planning application for the 48-turbine development and it was 18 months ago that the public inquiry into the plans was held in Duns.
The Reporter was due to publish her findings in June of last year. However, we have heard absolutely nothing from her.
There have been accusations that the developers, North British Wind Power, and the Scottish Government have been working in secret to come to some solution to allow the wind farm to go ahead.
Now, lo and behold, the MoD have dropped their objections to the plans and experts now reckon that this paves the way for the plan to be approved.
It all seems a little cloak and dagger to me and it is quite understandable the some of those opposing the plan are calling for a second public inquiry to hear the MoD's 'new evidence'.
Surely this has to be done!
Both Scottish Borders Council and East Lothian Council opposed the planning application for the 48-turbine development and it was 18 months ago that the public inquiry into the plans was held in Duns.
The Reporter was due to publish her findings in June of last year. However, we have heard absolutely nothing from her.
There have been accusations that the developers, North British Wind Power, and the Scottish Government have been working in secret to come to some solution to allow the wind farm to go ahead.
Now, lo and behold, the MoD have dropped their objections to the plans and experts now reckon that this paves the way for the plan to be approved.
It all seems a little cloak and dagger to me and it is quite understandable the some of those opposing the plan are calling for a second public inquiry to hear the MoD's 'new evidence'.
Surely this has to be done!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Your money, you choose!
THE Co-operative Bank has revealed our thoughts on what our money should look like.
Following recent news that future £50 notes will feature Scottish engineer James Watt and Matthew Boulton and that Henry VIII will appear on limited edition £5 coins, new research by The Co-operative Bank Current Accounts reveals who the nation really wants to see on our bank notes.
Top ten dream ‘faces’ of UK bank notes:
Prince William (14.5%)
Stephen Fry (10.9%)
Ant & Dec (8.6%)
Prince Charles (7.8%)
Richard Branson (5.1%)
David Beckham (4.6%)
Simon Cowell (4.5%)
Bruce Forsyth (3.2%)
Cheryl Cole (3%)
Boris Johnson (2.2%)
The study also found that when spending more than five pounds, 52% of people in the UK prefer to use their cards instead of cash. Surprisingly, on average, the maximum spend per transaction on cash from men is £450 whereas for women its £310.
At any one time women tend to carry around an average of £24 in cash, whereas men carry £31 cash. Unsurprisingly, most women believe they spend their money quicker when using cards (52%), whilst most men think cash is easier to spend (53%).
The results also reveal that the UK’s favourite bank note is the £20 (40%), followed by the tenner (28%), the £50 (17%) and the good old fiver (14%). However, 43% of people would like to see the 1p scraped, followed by 5p (26%), 2p (19%), 10p (3.9%), 20p (3.6%), £1 (2.4%) and even the 50p coin (1.6%).
Following recent news that future £50 notes will feature Scottish engineer James Watt and Matthew Boulton and that Henry VIII will appear on limited edition £5 coins, new research by The Co-operative Bank Current Accounts reveals who the nation really wants to see on our bank notes.
Top ten dream ‘faces’ of UK bank notes:
Prince William (14.5%)
Stephen Fry (10.9%)
Ant & Dec (8.6%)
Prince Charles (7.8%)
Richard Branson (5.1%)
David Beckham (4.6%)
Simon Cowell (4.5%)
Bruce Forsyth (3.2%)
Cheryl Cole (3%)
Boris Johnson (2.2%)
The study also found that when spending more than five pounds, 52% of people in the UK prefer to use their cards instead of cash. Surprisingly, on average, the maximum spend per transaction on cash from men is £450 whereas for women its £310.
At any one time women tend to carry around an average of £24 in cash, whereas men carry £31 cash. Unsurprisingly, most women believe they spend their money quicker when using cards (52%), whilst most men think cash is easier to spend (53%).
The results also reveal that the UK’s favourite bank note is the £20 (40%), followed by the tenner (28%), the £50 (17%) and the good old fiver (14%). However, 43% of people would like to see the 1p scraped, followed by 5p (26%), 2p (19%), 10p (3.9%), 20p (3.6%), £1 (2.4%) and even the 50p coin (1.6%).
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Were the Moon landings faked?
MONDAY (July 20) marks the 40th anniversary of the first manned lunar landing and Glasgow Science Centre is celebrating this momentous occasion with a special one-day event to debunk the conspiracy theories surrounding the lunar landings.
40 years ago, millions of people around the world waited with baited breath as three men embarked on an epic journey. Crowded around TVs and radios, people united for the single moment when Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the Moon and heard him utter the words that have travelled through space and time to the present day: “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”. But did man land on the Moon on the 20th of July 1969?
For decades there have been conspiracy theories suggesting that some or all elements of the Apollo 11 mission were faked by NASA. Several motives for the hoax include: America’s determination to beat Russia in the Space Race, to provide the American public a distraction from the growing Vietnam War or to fulfil the promise made by John F Kennedy that a man would land on the Moon before the end of the decade.
40 years ago, millions of people around the world waited with baited breath as three men embarked on an epic journey. Crowded around TVs and radios, people united for the single moment when Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the Moon and heard him utter the words that have travelled through space and time to the present day: “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”. But did man land on the Moon on the 20th of July 1969?
For decades there have been conspiracy theories suggesting that some or all elements of the Apollo 11 mission were faked by NASA. Several motives for the hoax include: America’s determination to beat Russia in the Space Race, to provide the American public a distraction from the growing Vietnam War or to fulfil the promise made by John F Kennedy that a man would land on the Moon before the end of the decade.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Swine flu outbreak
I DIDN'T think it would be along before the Borders was hit by the swine flu outbreak. NHS Borders Public Health Team are monitoring the situation very closely here and are working in line with the national guidelines. It is important that anyone who thinks they may have the symptoms do not go to their GP surgery or hospital. They should stay at home and call NHS 24 on 0845 4242424 or their GP.
Hall campaign victory
SCOTTISH Borders Council have decided to reverse their decision over the lease of Duns Volunteer Hall and this is surely a victory for commonsense.
Councillor Frances Renton saw her motion successfully passed and the campaigning group of hall users can celebrate a successful end to all their hard work.
It just goes to show what the local community can do when they pull together for a worthy cause - power to the people!
Councillor Frances Renton saw her motion successfully passed and the campaigning group of hall users can celebrate a successful end to all their hard work.
It just goes to show what the local community can do when they pull together for a worthy cause - power to the people!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Congratulations Gavinton
CONGRATULATIONS to the village of Gavinton on its 250th anniversary. It was great to see such a small village take great pride in its history and staging a colourful event to mark this great occasion. Well done to all involved and here's to the next 250 years!
Duns Volunteer Hall row
THE row over Scottish Borders Council not renewing their lease of the Volunteer Hall in Duns rumbles on, but the hall users will be glad to see light at the end of the tunnel. Councillor Frances Renton is to table a motion asking the council to overturn their decision not to renew the lease and this will come as great news to the community of Duns. The hall users would like to see the council taking a five year lease for the hall thus enabling them some time for further negotiations regarding its future. Hopefully France's fellow councillors will do the right thing.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Congratulations to Cockburnspath
WELL done the community of Cockburnspath and district on winning the Keep Berwickshire Tidy Award. Litter is an ongoing problem and it is up to us to educate the younger generation to keep our streets and roads etc tidy and dispose of litter sensibly. High standards of cleanliness have been reported throughout Berwickshire by the competition judges so hopefully the message is getting through. If you know of any litter blackspots let us know and we will highlight them in our newspaper.
Have you seen the 'Beast of Berwickshire'
THE mysterious creature sighted by a motorist crossing the A1 near Reston makes you wonder just how many other people may have seen the 'beast' but thought nothing more of it. Over the years we have had reported sightings of a puma in the Lammermuirs, a capybara near Ayton, a wildcat on Greenlaw Moor and many more. If you have any recollections of seeing strange animals on your travels we would love to hear from you. E-mail me at sandybrydon@tweeddalepress.co.uk and we will investigate!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Toasting tea bag investment
THERE was some good news on the jobs front for Berwickshire this week when First Minister Alex Salmond officially opened a new production line at Ahlstrom's Chirnside mill.
The £23m investment will create a total of 30 jobs and help to safeguard another 180 posts.
The new production line has the ability to make enough tea bags in one year to cover the pitch at Hampden Park nearly 40,000 times over!
During his visit the first minister met with machine operators at the factory and said the investment was particularly welcome at a time of "economic difficulties".
The £23m investment will create a total of 30 jobs and help to safeguard another 180 posts.
The new production line has the ability to make enough tea bags in one year to cover the pitch at Hampden Park nearly 40,000 times over!
During his visit the first minister met with machine operators at the factory and said the investment was particularly welcome at a time of "economic difficulties".
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Superb rally weekend
CONGRATULATIONS to the organisers of this year's Jim Clark Rally - what a tremendous success the special street stage in Duns was.
The town was bursting at the seams on the Friday evening as over 4,000 motorsport fans converged on the town centre to witness what was a spectacular start to this year's rally. And there was a similar huge support for the Saturday night stage.
This was, without doubt, one of the best sporting moments Berwickshire has witnessed for many, many years and one can only hope that it will be repeated next year - PLEASE!
The huge amount of organisation which went into this certainly paid off as it seemed to go without a hitch. There are sure to be a few people who were inconvenienced but the advantages to the town far outweighed the disadvantages.
I am not sure if the continental market added anything to the weekend and perhaps it would have been better to either situate it elsewhere or forget about it and keep Currie Street open for longer.
The Market Square could also have accommodated more spectators had it not been for the funfair so perhaps it could be moved to another location next time.
So well done Colin Pagan and your army of helpers and marshalls - a job well done!
The town was bursting at the seams on the Friday evening as over 4,000 motorsport fans converged on the town centre to witness what was a spectacular start to this year's rally. And there was a similar huge support for the Saturday night stage.
This was, without doubt, one of the best sporting moments Berwickshire has witnessed for many, many years and one can only hope that it will be repeated next year - PLEASE!
The huge amount of organisation which went into this certainly paid off as it seemed to go without a hitch. There are sure to be a few people who were inconvenienced but the advantages to the town far outweighed the disadvantages.
I am not sure if the continental market added anything to the weekend and perhaps it would have been better to either situate it elsewhere or forget about it and keep Currie Street open for longer.
The Market Square could also have accommodated more spectators had it not been for the funfair so perhaps it could be moved to another location next time.
So well done Colin Pagan and your army of helpers and marshalls - a job well done!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Hey! It's the Fonz
HAPPY Days came to the Borders last week when Henry Winkler - better known as The Fonz - visited for a day's fishing on the River Tweed. He is the latest celebrity to visit our region and take advantage of the excellent sport which is available. Others have recently included Ian Botham, Eric Clapton and Chris Tarrant. We have also had TV soap stars golfing at Duns in recent months. Does anyone know of any other visits by celebrities to Berwickshire and the Borders for one reason or another?
General Election?
THERE was probably a lot of back-slapping in David Cameron's office last week. The Tory leader has struggled to get much attention for his call for a general election to elect a new Parliament to go along with a new Speaker but last week Gordon Brown changed all that by warning that an election could cause "chaos". What did he mean by that, Mr Cameron demanded to know at Prime Minister's Questions. The prime minister's reply was that he was referring to the chaos caused by a Conservative victory - thus appearing to suggest that he will not permit the electorate a vote because they might choose to change governments.
Mr Brown did go on to spell out the reasons he should have given for not going to the polls: namely, that this Parliament should sort out the current political and economic mess - but it was too late to stop the Tories claiming that he's running scared of the voters.
Mr Brown did go on to spell out the reasons he should have given for not going to the polls: namely, that this Parliament should sort out the current political and economic mess - but it was too late to stop the Tories claiming that he's running scared of the voters.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Congratulations to Coldstream Burns Club
IT was like a who's who of the Burns scene at Coldstream last weekend when the Coldstream Burns Club staged their annual bridge ceremony marking the bard's first venture onto English soil back in 1787. The club did the town proud by making this event part of Scotland's Homecoming celebrations. Anyone who is anyone in the world of Burns was there and all agreed that it was an outstanding event.
Jim Clark Rally spectacular
THE rally circus is coming to town!
Duns is preparing for a massive influx of visitors when the Jim Clark Rally is held next weekend (May 22-24). A bumper entry of almost 300 cars will take part in this year's event which also includes a spectacular street stage in Duns. I may be wrong, but I don't know if Duns will cope with such a massive event. The people of Duns will have to put up with a bit of inconvenience for a couple of days but I am sure it will be worth it and the local traders are bound to benefit. Let us all embrace what can seriously become a world class event.
Duns is preparing for a massive influx of visitors when the Jim Clark Rally is held next weekend (May 22-24). A bumper entry of almost 300 cars will take part in this year's event which also includes a spectacular street stage in Duns. I may be wrong, but I don't know if Duns will cope with such a massive event. The people of Duns will have to put up with a bit of inconvenience for a couple of days but I am sure it will be worth it and the local traders are bound to benefit. Let us all embrace what can seriously become a world class event.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Greenlaw Festival
IT'S time the people of Greenlaw got their act together and sorted out this petty quarrel about the funfair at this year's Greenlaw Festival. After 100 years of entertaining the youngsters in the village surely Slater's funfair can be accommodated in some way. It's time to stop the quarrelling and bitter mudslinging and sort it out.
Fallago Rig
THE fact that two local authorities have expressed their "growing consternation" that Scottish Ministers may be acting outwith their powers and, as some have suggested, acted 'illegally', in their dealings over the Fallago Rig wind farm public inquiry, is worrying to say the least. It is now 15 months since the official public inquiry and we still have no results from it - this certainly rings alarm bells. It is time for the Scottish Government to come clean and tell the truth about just what is going on!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Look out dog owners!
THE news that a new Community Safety Unit has been approved will come as good news to most but bad news to those who fail to clear up after their dogs. Not only will the new unit help make Berwickshire a safer place to live but it will also include a new dog wardens service to help make it a cleaner place to live as well.
Renew hall lease and keep the peace!
THE people of Duns turned out in numbers to show their disgust at Scottish Borders Council's decision not to renew the lease of the town's Volunteer Hall. And they got what the wanted with the council extending the lease, at least until June next year, and admitting they had made a big mistake in not consulting with the local hall user groups. Now perhaps the council will see sense and renew the lease for well past next year and give the people of Duns back their hall which has played a major part in community life now for many, many years. (Well done Stuart (Shug) Renton for your unstinting work which, I hope, does not go unrecognised).
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Young Burnsians at Duns
ALMOST 200 young Burns enthusiasts will converge on Duns over the next couple of week's to compete in the Robert Burns World Federation Schools' Competition held in the new Berwickshire High School.
It is fitting that the event be held in Duns at this time of year for it was in May 1787 that Burns first came over Langton Edge and visited Berwickshire during his Borders tour.
During his time in Duns he lodged with the Ainslie family at Berrywell and also attended Duns Parish Church. He also set foot in 'Englandshire' for the first time crodssing the River Tweed at Coldstream.
Good luck to all Berwickshire competitors in the competition.
It is fitting that the event be held in Duns at this time of year for it was in May 1787 that Burns first came over Langton Edge and visited Berwickshire during his Borders tour.
During his time in Duns he lodged with the Ainslie family at Berrywell and also attended Duns Parish Church. He also set foot in 'Englandshire' for the first time crodssing the River Tweed at Coldstream.
Good luck to all Berwickshire competitors in the competition.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Coldstream dental facility
THE news that the much-awaited new dental facility at Coldstream is nearing completion will be welcomed by all.
The development has not been without its problems - Coldstream Dental Practice hasn't been operating since November and dentists announced that they would not be relocating to the new facility when it opened.
However, six dentists are now expected to be at the Berwickshire surgery which NHS Borders hope will be opened next month.
Now, at long last Coldstream residents should be able to be seen by a dentist locally instead of having to travel to get treatment.
The development has not been without its problems - Coldstream Dental Practice hasn't been operating since November and dentists announced that they would not be relocating to the new facility when it opened.
However, six dentists are now expected to be at the Berwickshire surgery which NHS Borders hope will be opened next month.
Now, at long last Coldstream residents should be able to be seen by a dentist locally instead of having to travel to get treatment.
Festivals cash freeze
THE news that Borders common ridings and festivals are to have their council grants frozen appears a bit strange in what is being billed by the Scottish Government as the year of Scotland's Homecoming.
A total of 31 towns and villages receive annual grants from Scottish Borders Council to help defray ever riding costs but they have now been told that the cash they receive will remain the same as that awarded in 2005.
Surely in the year of the much-vaunted Homecoming, when towns are encouraged to attract people back to their roots with special events, a modest increase in grant could have been given.
This is a special year and special grants should have been approved.
A total of 31 towns and villages receive annual grants from Scottish Borders Council to help defray ever riding costs but they have now been told that the cash they receive will remain the same as that awarded in 2005.
Surely in the year of the much-vaunted Homecoming, when towns are encouraged to attract people back to their roots with special events, a modest increase in grant could have been given.
This is a special year and special grants should have been approved.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Golfing dress code
BEING a golfer (well supposedly!) it was interesting to read this week that the impact of the recession has forced some golf clubs to change their attitude towards what people can and cannot wear on the course and at the 19th hole.
For a long time denim was taboo but now, with golf club membership declining all over the country, some clubs are relaxing their dress code, with the backing of the SGU and the SLGA, and allowing jeans and T-shirts.
To attract more members clubs need have a more flexible attitude and this can only be welcome news. Don’t know if it will help reduce my handicap though!
For a long time denim was taboo but now, with golf club membership declining all over the country, some clubs are relaxing their dress code, with the backing of the SGU and the SLGA, and allowing jeans and T-shirts.
To attract more members clubs need have a more flexible attitude and this can only be welcome news. Don’t know if it will help reduce my handicap though!
Prescription charges
THOUSANDS of patients with long-term conditions have benefited from the falling cost of prescription charges in Scotland.
The cost of a single prescription has fallen from £5 to £4 and the cost of Prescription Pre-payment Certificates (PPCs) has been lowered from £48 to £38 for 12 months and £17 to £13 for four months.
This is the second consecutive year prescription charges in Scotland have been cut which will benefit hundreds of thousands of people across the country.
The immediate reduction, which became effective from April 1, 2009, is another major step towards the phased abolition of prescription charges.
It is particularly important for people with long-term conditions to be aware of Prescription pre-payment Certificates and the savings to be made by using these, instead of paying for individual prescriptions.
These reductions and the steps towards abolition of the prescription charges will help alleviate the significant financial burden of living with a long term condition.
The cost of a single prescription has fallen from £5 to £4 and the cost of Prescription Pre-payment Certificates (PPCs) has been lowered from £48 to £38 for 12 months and £17 to £13 for four months.
This is the second consecutive year prescription charges in Scotland have been cut which will benefit hundreds of thousands of people across the country.
The immediate reduction, which became effective from April 1, 2009, is another major step towards the phased abolition of prescription charges.
It is particularly important for people with long-term conditions to be aware of Prescription pre-payment Certificates and the savings to be made by using these, instead of paying for individual prescriptions.
These reductions and the steps towards abolition of the prescription charges will help alleviate the significant financial burden of living with a long term condition.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Save our hall
IT was great to see the Volunteer Hall in Duns packed to capacity for a fund raising function on Saturday night.
The hall is currently under threat with SBC proposing to end their lease but where else in the town could have accommodated such a big event as the one on Saturday - nowhere.
The new high school certainly is not big enough and it has other probelms regarding catering, bar, etc.
In my mind the council are being a little blinkered with regards to the hall - where else in the Borders would be left without such a facility - certainly not Gala, Hawick or Selkirk that's for sure!
A petition is currently available to sign in Duns shops to support the campaign to save the hall and a public meeting is to be held on April 16 to discuss the subject.
The people of Duns must lend their support to this campaign.
The hall is currently under threat with SBC proposing to end their lease but where else in the town could have accommodated such a big event as the one on Saturday - nowhere.
The new high school certainly is not big enough and it has other probelms regarding catering, bar, etc.
In my mind the council are being a little blinkered with regards to the hall - where else in the Borders would be left without such a facility - certainly not Gala, Hawick or Selkirk that's for sure!
A petition is currently available to sign in Duns shops to support the campaign to save the hall and a public meeting is to be held on April 16 to discuss the subject.
The people of Duns must lend their support to this campaign.
Dog owners beware!
ONE of my pet hates (excuse the pun) is dog fouling.
Apparently one of the Berwickshire towns worst hit by this problem is Coldstream.
Following complaints to SBC about the amount of dog poo in Coldstream, an SBLocal team visited the town and in just one day cleared up an astonishing 335 doggy deposits.
The shear scale of the problem is simply disgusting to say the least and I would urge anyone witnessing dogs fouling - anywhere in Berwickshire - to be prepared to name and shame the responsible dog owners and do their bit to keep our communities clean.
Apparently one of the Berwickshire towns worst hit by this problem is Coldstream.
Following complaints to SBC about the amount of dog poo in Coldstream, an SBLocal team visited the town and in just one day cleared up an astonishing 335 doggy deposits.
The shear scale of the problem is simply disgusting to say the least and I would urge anyone witnessing dogs fouling - anywhere in Berwickshire - to be prepared to name and shame the responsible dog owners and do their bit to keep our communities clean.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Going down
THERE was a stark message in the Scottish Government's farm survey last week - cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and crops are all in decline.
Even the agricultural workforce continues to drop in number.
Although not entirely unexpected news, is does provide further proof that the Scottish Rural Developmemnt Programme (SRDP) must be radically altered if any of these trends are to be reveresed.
Even the agricultural workforce continues to drop in number.
Although not entirely unexpected news, is does provide further proof that the Scottish Rural Developmemnt Programme (SRDP) must be radically altered if any of these trends are to be reveresed.
Secret service
DAVID Lochhead, chairman of Cranshaws, Ellemford and Longformacus Community Council quite rightly stated this week that "the point of a public inquiry is to be open and transparent".
So why then is there so much hush hush activity involved regarding the outcome of the Fallago Rig Wind Farm Public Inquiry?
Could it be that the Scottish Government are trying to do a deal with the Ministry of Defence to be able to approve it and thus step closer to their renewable energy target?
If there is new evidence which has come to light after the public inquiry then surely those who took part in the inquiry should be notified of it.
Given that discussions are taking place behind closed doors surely questions have to be asked about the transparency of the whole public inquiry process.
So why then is there so much hush hush activity involved regarding the outcome of the Fallago Rig Wind Farm Public Inquiry?
Could it be that the Scottish Government are trying to do a deal with the Ministry of Defence to be able to approve it and thus step closer to their renewable energy target?
If there is new evidence which has come to light after the public inquiry then surely those who took part in the inquiry should be notified of it.
Given that discussions are taking place behind closed doors surely questions have to be asked about the transparency of the whole public inquiry process.
Lucky Hibees
IT doesn't happen very often but I had to eat humble pie this week.
Being a staunch supporter of the mighty Heart of Midlothian FC I had been a bit over confident that we would beat the Hibees in the Edinburgh derby only to see the Jambos lose to the only goal of the game.
This has meant getting a fair bit of stick from my Hibees pals this week but I can take it! After all many of them cannot even remember the last time they beat us in a league derby match.
Being a staunch supporter of the mighty Heart of Midlothian FC I had been a bit over confident that we would beat the Hibees in the Edinburgh derby only to see the Jambos lose to the only goal of the game.
This has meant getting a fair bit of stick from my Hibees pals this week but I can take it! After all many of them cannot even remember the last time they beat us in a league derby match.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Gone fishing - or fishing gone?
BERWICKSHIRE salmon anglers are up in arms after losing their rights to hold season permits for the River Whiteadder.
A season ticket for local anglers last year cost £55 (£30 for senior citizens and £3 for juniors). Now Berwick and District Angling Association will no longer issue season tickets to local anglers and instead only day tickets for salmon fishing will be issued in 2009 - at a cost of £30 per day.
This new charge effectively excludes locals from their river.
Whether this move has something to do with conservation measures I do not know but it is time the officials of the Berwick and District Angling Association explained the move - so far they have remained tight-lipped.
A season ticket for local anglers last year cost £55 (£30 for senior citizens and £3 for juniors). Now Berwick and District Angling Association will no longer issue season tickets to local anglers and instead only day tickets for salmon fishing will be issued in 2009 - at a cost of £30 per day.
This new charge effectively excludes locals from their river.
Whether this move has something to do with conservation measures I do not know but it is time the officials of the Berwick and District Angling Association explained the move - so far they have remained tight-lipped.
Wanting Scotland's help
THE Scottish Government must be doing something right.
I read in one newspaper this week that Northumberland County Council reckons their region have a lot to gain by looking to Scotland for help.
They now want to combine resources on areas such as off-shore wind, oil, energy and high speed rail. Politicians in the north east have effectively been forced to build closer links with Scotland after the London-based Government officers have repeatedly overlooked the needs of the north.
I read in one newspaper this week that Northumberland County Council reckons their region have a lot to gain by looking to Scotland for help.
They now want to combine resources on areas such as off-shore wind, oil, energy and high speed rail. Politicians in the north east have effectively been forced to build closer links with Scotland after the London-based Government officers have repeatedly overlooked the needs of the north.
Sports pitches in Duns
I am firmly in support of the proposal to amend the local plan to allow for the exchange of the existing sports provision at Todlaw in Duns in return for the facilities at the Berwickshire High School.
Whilst Todlaw has been a useful site for training purposes there it is less suitable for meeting the sporting needs of the Duns area than the provision currently available at the BHS site because:
• The site has none of the basic amenities expected of a sports area (changing rooms, etc)
• There is no vehicular access (which is a particular worry for people involved in contact sports) nor parking
• The grounds are not of a standard for competitive match use
• There would be a need to make major capital outlays to bring the grounds and drainage up to specification
• It stands cheek by jowl with a residential area which already causes concern for local residents and any development will only exacerbate this.
By way of contrast, the Berwickshire High School site:
• Already has established usage for a wide range of sporting activities
• Requires no major capital outlays to provide high quality competitive pitches
• Is amply served with parking and vehicular access
• Offers synergies for the multiple sporting activities available on the site (swimming, squash, badminton, rugby and football) which will enable people to reduce costs, share resources and enhance the service to the wider public
• Provides sufficient space for future growth and creation of new shared facilities
In addition, such a development will benefit plans to relocate the primary by guaranteeing that adequate sporting fields are available for the children’s use. Furthermore, combined with the provision also available across the road at the new Community High School, Duns will also be able to host major sporting events, such as football and rugby tournaments for children and adults alike in a single area. Finally, such an approach will enable SBC to swap a difficult to develop, listed site, which is made complex on account of the embedded users, such as the swimming pool and squash club, for a good clean site, which is immediately adjacent to existing and newly-zoned residential areas.
For all these reasons I hope that Scottish Borders Council planners will support the proposed amendment and enable the people of Duns and indeed Scottish Borders Council reap the benefits that it will bring.
I urge all like minded people in Duns and district to write to SBC's planning department supporting this amendment.
Whilst Todlaw has been a useful site for training purposes there it is less suitable for meeting the sporting needs of the Duns area than the provision currently available at the BHS site because:
• The site has none of the basic amenities expected of a sports area (changing rooms, etc)
• There is no vehicular access (which is a particular worry for people involved in contact sports) nor parking
• The grounds are not of a standard for competitive match use
• There would be a need to make major capital outlays to bring the grounds and drainage up to specification
• It stands cheek by jowl with a residential area which already causes concern for local residents and any development will only exacerbate this.
By way of contrast, the Berwickshire High School site:
• Already has established usage for a wide range of sporting activities
• Requires no major capital outlays to provide high quality competitive pitches
• Is amply served with parking and vehicular access
• Offers synergies for the multiple sporting activities available on the site (swimming, squash, badminton, rugby and football) which will enable people to reduce costs, share resources and enhance the service to the wider public
• Provides sufficient space for future growth and creation of new shared facilities
In addition, such a development will benefit plans to relocate the primary by guaranteeing that adequate sporting fields are available for the children’s use. Furthermore, combined with the provision also available across the road at the new Community High School, Duns will also be able to host major sporting events, such as football and rugby tournaments for children and adults alike in a single area. Finally, such an approach will enable SBC to swap a difficult to develop, listed site, which is made complex on account of the embedded users, such as the swimming pool and squash club, for a good clean site, which is immediately adjacent to existing and newly-zoned residential areas.
For all these reasons I hope that Scottish Borders Council planners will support the proposed amendment and enable the people of Duns and indeed Scottish Borders Council reap the benefits that it will bring.
I urge all like minded people in Duns and district to write to SBC's planning department supporting this amendment.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Hi and welcome to my blog. I hope you enjoy the posts and return. I'll be talking about the issues that have aroused my interest over the week. They may be local or national but remember these are my opinions.
If you agree or disagree, post your comment and the best may make it into the Berwickshire News
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