THE construction of extra-care sheltered housing on theMurtholm in Langholm hasbeen delayed for three months.

This is because of the Scottishgovernment’s instructions toclose all development sites foran initial period of three monthsbecause of the COVID-19 cri-sis.

Loreburn Housing Association,which is building the complex,intended to start on the site laterthis year or in early 2021 butthe lockdown may result in re-vised timescales.

Up until now, Loreburn wasprogressing towards the sub-mission of a detailed planningapplication in July.

The planning applications in-clude the bridge across the Eskand phase one, which is the ex-tra-care housing. Both applica-tions will be submitted concur-rently.

The foot and cycle bridge willlink the housing with the town.

Loreburn’s development pro-gramme currently sits withinthe timescales set out by Sustransfor funding applications and abid to the fund is planned.

Sustrans is a charity whichpromotes walking and cyclingin the UK.

Dumfries and Galloway'sHealth and Social Care Part-nership has confirmed its supportfor the development.

Gary Sheenan, Integration JointBoard locality manager for An-nandale and Eskdale said: "Thedevelopment is welcome and

much-needed and will enablemore people to remain living intheir own homes as indepen-dently as possible.

“We look forward to workingwith Loreburn on this excitingand innovative new service.”

Once Loreburn has a betterunderstanding of the impact ofthe crisis on key developments,its design team will be instructedto package engineering enablingworks which it hopes will allowwork to still start as scheduledbut this decision is out of itshands at the moment.

Once instructed, the workswill include access improve-ments from the A7 onto the site,service diversions and the cre-ation of a service road to enablethe bridge works.

The Scottish Environment Pro-tection Agency has allocated awindow of May to September

2021 for the bridge works.Lorraine Usher, Loreburn’s

chief executive, said: “TheMurtholm is an exciting andambitious project for bothLangholm and ourselves andwe’re delighted with the com-munity support which has beenshown to date.

“With this unprecedented sit-uation and these difficult andworrying times having such awide impact, it’s important, nowmore than ever, to look to thefuture.

“Once the crisis is over, Lore-burn is keen to be in a positionto progress this ambitious, in-spiring development as soon aspossible so we can contributeto building a positive, healthyfuture for Langholm.”

One of the UK’s leading man-ufacturers of personal protectiveclothing (PPE), Alpha Solwayof Annan, has gone back toschool to help speed up the hugegrowth in demand for its prod-ucts.

The company approached staffat Annan Academy and askedwhether its science departmentstaff could help.

PPE is even more vital duringthe COVID-19 crisis and AlphaSolway is working flat out toprepare face-mask, fit test kitsfor the NHS, which is stretchingthis already busy business.

About 20 staff, scientists andtechnicians from schools in thearea volunteered to use the chem-istry department at the schoolto help prepare Bitrex, a solution

used to ensure respiratory pro-tective equipment is fit for pur-pose.

It’s hoped this will ease theburden on the company and pro-vide more of the equipment theNHS needs so desperately.

The team has already com-pleted the first run of 40 litresof the solution, equivalent to190 bottles, which are alreadyon their way to the NHS.

Steven Binnie, director of Al-pha Solway, said: “We’re work-ing hard to get critical PPE

products to frontline workersand have been amazed by thecommunity support we have re-ceived.

“One fantastic example of thisis the school support and teach-ing staff who, co-ordinated byGhislaine Duncan from the coun-cil, are making these test solu-tions critical for anyone whoneeds a respirator.

They are directly contributingto the safety and well-being ofcountless healthcare profession-als in Scotland.”

Supporting our DO YOUR BIT TO HELP THEM THROUGH THIS CRISIS: STAY AT HOME!

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Virus setback forMurtholm housing

NEWS

BRIEFING

Scheme is delayed by three months but could still be on time

NEWS

THE ESKDALE & LIDDESDALE ADVERTISER • Owned by the Community, Published for the Community

SPORT

Thursday April 9, 2020Series 2 No. 8350

EWM denies it hastreated staff badly

STAFF made redundant byEdinburgh Woollen Mill saythe company was heartless notto re-employ them after theUK government introduced ascheme to retain workers laidoff because of the coronavirus.

Full story: Page 5

The way we were......the way we are

An E&L Life feature lookingat how people’s jobs havetaken a different slant over theintervening years. Gilly Fraserlooks at life in Border TV.

Quizzes: Pages 8 & 9

BRIAN Hughes, who ridesregularly for James Ewart Racing of Langholm, has beencrowned champion jump jock-ey for the first time in his career.Full story: Page 24

Hughes is crownedchampion jump jockey

Lorraine Usher of Loreburn H A

Last September Loreburn carried out groundworks to assess the bestplace for a footbridge over the Esk

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser2 Thursday, April 9, 2020

Death toll of 17 in D&GTHE chief executive of NHS Dumfries & Galloway has confirmedmore deaths from the coronavirusover the past week.When the first few deaths were noti-

fied, Jeff Ace said he expected thenumber to increase significantly overcoming days and that has been thecase.NHS Dumfries & Galloway has ad-

vised that as at 12pm on April 8 thereare 152 positive COVID-19 cases inthe region.There have been 17 deaths, in which

coronavirus was either the primarycause of death or a factor potentiallycontributing to death.Mr Ace said: “Our thoughts are very

much with people’s families and friendsat this time.“We are also very thoughtful of

people who are currently receivingtreatment or self-isolating with milder

symptoms.“Dumfries and Galloway is not im-

mune to the dangers posed by COVID-19. “Although most people, who contract

this coronavirus, will experience mildsymptoms, as we know from elsewherein the world, those most vulnerableare older adults and people with un-derlying health conditions.“This is why it’s so important for

everyone to help prevent the spreadof COVID-19 and why we would liketo express gratitude for all the contin-uing efforts to help us do everythingpossible to limit the impact of thisvirus in Dumfries and Galloway.“An update on the number of deaths

in Dumfries and Galloway resultingfrom COVID-19 is being made to thecoronavirus section of the websitewww.nhsdg.co.uk on a weekly basis,while not disclosing any details on

individual patients.”South of Scotland MSP Colin Smyth

has praised NHS Dumfries & Gallowayafter it was revealed the health boardwas one of the first in Scotland tobegin testing its own frontline staffand their family members, who wereshowing Covid-19 symptoms, and staffin their partner organisations in socialcare and the police.Julie White, chief officer, told Dum-

fries and Galloway Council’s COVID-19 sub-committee last Friday that thehealth board was doing 50 to 60 testsa day.Mr Smyth said: “By testing, the

health board can identify who has thevirus, which means those who get theall-clear can return to work.“It is also fantastic that it has extended

testing to their partners in social careand the police.”

Don’t ignorevital grantsESKDALE businesses could missout on emergency grants if theyfail to apply.They are being encouraged toapply for the Scottish governmentgrants to help them through thecoronavirus crisis.Dumfries and Galloway Councilhas released figures which showthat fewer than half of eligiblecompanies have so far applied forthe payments.They could be missing out on cashsums worth up to £25,000.Joan McAlpine, South of ScotlandSNP MSP, is asking businessowners to check whether theyqualify.She said: “The figures show thatlast Friday 48 per cent of firms,which are eligible for the £25,000,have sent applications and only 39per cent of businesses eligible toreceive grants of £10,000 haveapplied.“This means more than half of allqualifying businesses could bemissing out.She is concerned that, althoughsome companies may intend toapply in the near future, some stillmay not know about the scheme or,perhaps, they think they’re noteligible.She is urging any business ownerto call the council’s dedicatedhelpline on 01387 260280, openfrom Monday to Friday from 9am to5pm, to find out whether they qualify.They don’t need to repay any grantthey receive; it’s not a loan.“Most small businesses, whichwere in receipt of the small businessbonus scheme and rural relief, canget a one-off grant of £10,000.“Retail, hospitality and leisurebusinesses with a rateable valuebetween £18,001 and £51,000 will

be able to apply for a one-off grantof £25,000.They can also get this grant if theyapplied for nursery relief, businessgrowth accelerator relief, disabledrelief or fresh start but were eligiblefor the small business bonusscheme.

Self-catering accommodation andcaravans are eligible for a grant iftheir business is a primary source ofincome for the ratepayer (one thirdor more), and their accommodationwas let for 140 days or more infinancial year 2019-20.Ms McAlpine added: “Please passon this information to any smallbusiness owner who you think maybe struggling.“This money is here to help themand it would be awful if any wentunder because they didn’t knowabout it.”

Joan McAlpine, SNP MSP South of Scotland

Council encourages application

Thanks for Sympathy

Funeral Services

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

For a Personal Service

Hedley and Turnbull013873 75404 / 013873 75532 / 0789 655 7941

Funeral DirectorsUndertaker & Monumental Service

New Memorials suppliedAdditional Inscriptions and Cleaning

David W. ErskineBriery Bank, Ewes, Langholm

Tel: 013873 81251 or 07710 906257

Deaths

FOSTERJerome, a much loved husband, son, dad andpapa.Peacefully passed away at home surrounded byhis family on Tuesday 31st March, aged 68.Funeral at Langholm Cemetery on Thursday 9thApril at 10.30am

For information, contact Hedley & Turnbull 07896 557941

DONALDSONPeacefully on 1st April 2020 in Thomas HopeHospital, Langholm.Robert (Bert) Donaldson, West Street, Langholm,beloved husband of the late Sadie and father toBrian. Interred Langholm Cemetery 8th April.I would like to convey a special message ofgratitude to all the amazing staff at the ThomasHope for the exceptional care my dad receivedfrom the day of his admittance until his passing.

BORTHWICK

The family of the late Betty would like to thankfamily and friends for the lovely cards and messagesof sympathy posted on social media, received afterher passing on 29th March 2020. Also thanks to the staff at Dalarran in Langholmand Riverside in Selkirk who cared for Betty formore than 10 years, thanks to Jennifer for thelovely wreaths and flowers. A big thanks to cousin David for organising the funeral and everything else at such a difficult time. It is a comfort to us all that we come from theMuckle Toon with its muckle heart and be amongfolk we ken at a time like this. We would also like to send a Muckle Toon hug toour brother Elliot, whose lovely wife Angela passedon 4th April 2020 in Bristol.

Heartfelt thanks to you all.

The Borthwicks.

Happy Birthday

Happy 40th

Jordan07/04/20

love Amy, OliviaMum & Dad

HALLJosephine.Josie passed away peacefully at homeon 30th March surrounded by her loving family.It is with deep regret that the funeral is immediatefamily only due to the current circumstances.A memorial will be held at a later date.Marc, Donna and Family would like to thankMarie Curie, Carers, Canonbie Surgery and allthe professional team in their dedication andcare towards Josie.

NICHOL

Janet would like to thank everyone for the cards,flowers and expressions of condolence receivedafter Tommy passed away. Special thanks to Nicolaand Stefan of Nicholson’s Funeral Directors fortheir help and support and to Glynis Milburn forher comforting service. For those who attendedthe service and your donations to Annan CourtCare Home, thank you.

CAVERSIsabella Elizabeth Cavers (née Elliot), SorbieFarm, Ewes, on 5th April, 2020, in her 88th year,peacefully in Dumfries and Galloway RoyalInfirmary. Loving and dearly loved wife of Tam, much lovedmother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law andaunt. Precious and fun-filled “Granny Isa” to hergrandchildren, their partners and greatgrandchildren. Funeral private.

Church Notices

CANONBIE UNITED& LIDDESDALE

PARISH CHURCHES

Sunday 29nd March

Morning WorshipCanonbie 11.30am

Services led by Rev Pauline Steenbergen

LANGHOLM, ESKDALEMUIR,

EWES & WESTERKIRKPARISH CHURCHES

Sunday 29th March

Langholm 10am

Daily Worship

All Serv

ices

CANCELL

ED

until furthe

r notice

All Serv

ices

CANCELL

ED

until furthe

r notice

Thursday April 9, 2020 3

Enjoy art innatureTHE Look Out Langholm festival,due to take place from May 22to 31, has been cancelled becauseof the COVID-19 pandemic.This festival was a partnershipevent between Wild Eskdale, Out-Post Arts, The Walled Garden atArkleton, Textiles Eskdale andFor Enjoyment.The festival was created to cel-ebrate art within nature throughworkshops, performances anddemonstrations. “It’s with regret that we had tocancel the festival,” said CarysMainprize, project assistant forWild Eskdale.“However, keeping people safeand following government adviceis our top priority.“There is still plenty that peoplecan do at home to engage withnature in creative ways.“From sketching and embroideryto poetry, nature can be broughtinto art on every level. I think atthis time that’s more importantthan ever.”Wild Eskdale and its partnershope to reschedule the Look OutLangholm festival.

____________________

More fundsfor GPsEXTRA funding of £15 millionis being provided to GP practicesto help them cope with extra pres-sures arising from the coron-avirus.About a third of the Scottishgovernment funding is intendedto allow practices to remain openon Good Friday (tomorrow) andEaster Monday if it is safe to doso, to alleviate pressures on out-of-hours services.The rest will help to cover costsof equipment, additional non-clinical staff, GP partners andlocum cover for sickness leave.The government is providingPersonal Protective Equipmentto GP practices and will not needto be bought with this funding.

____________________

New viruscentre openA COVID-19 assessment centrehas opened at the Dumfries andGalloway Royal Infirmary.In the first instance anyone with mild symptoms should look at the information onwww.nhsinform.scot/coronavirusShould more advice or guidancebe needed, they should call NHS24on 111.Anyone needing further assess-ment will get access by NHS24to the COVID-19 community hub.The hub gives call-handling,secondary triage and phone advicefor everyone in Dumfries andGalloway.Should it be needed, the hubrefers patients to the assessmentcentre which will assess patientswith more serious symptoms.

THE gates at Langholmparish church have beenlocked to prevent people fromwalking in its grounds.There are loose stones at roofheight on the church and, ifthey fell, could kill someoneunderneath.It is estimated that the repairswill cost £40,000 because ofthe need for scaffolding.The Rev Robert Pickles said:“We found out while havingthe bell tower surveyed.“Although nothing fell overChristmas during the bad winds,now we know about it we wouldbe irresponsible if we allowedothers to put their lives at risk.“Even if the coronavirus lock-down were lifted tomorrow, wecould not have any services because of this.”“So down to prayer,” headded. “It is a Grade A listedbuilding so it must be donewell.“We have only a small amountof the needed cash for the work.

‘Rolls Royce buildings costRolls Royce prices’ goes thesaying.“However, we must make itsafe and we would like to hearthe bell ring out over Langholmfor services and other times,like funerals.“We also want to share thisbeautiful building in this beau-tiful place for the next 100years or more; the stone workitself is strong.

Locked“So, the gates are locked. Notbecause we do not love youanymore but because we doand we want you to be safe.“Please do not access thegrounds in any way around thechurch until the work is done.”The church was designed andbuilt by William Burn andDavid Bryce in 1842-43.The pair were responsible forFettes College, Edinburgh andmany other important buildingsin the capital and Glasgow.Mr Pickles said: “It is our

own Borders Cathedral. It alsocontains a Willis Organ whichis being restored to its originalglory.“Willis made organs for many

English cathedrals, like Salisbury and the Royal AlbertHall and St George’s Hall, Liverpool.“He created organs for some

major churches in Scotland, including St Machir’s Cathedral,Aberdeen and, of course,Langholm. The boast is not anexaggeration.”

Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser • Owned by the Community : Published by the Community

Langholm parish church gates are locked to keep people safe from loose masonry on the roof

£40k repair bill forchurch roof masonry

Welcome to

www.eladvertiser.co.ukthe new website for the E & L Advertiser

At a time when we are continually being reminded to stay athome, we have decided now is the time to launch our newwebsite and hope that it helps everyone in Eskdale and Liddesdaleto keep in touch with what is happening locally. In these troubledtimes, self-isolating at home is a challenging experience and themore rural our home, the more difficult it can be to get to ourlocal shops and buy our everyday needs, including our weeklycopy of the E&L.

We had planned an all singing, all dancing website with subscriptions, interactions and a full digital version of the E&Lbut that will come later once the coronavirus, COVID-19, hasbeen consigned to the history books.

Aye, the best laid schemes o' mice an' men gang aft a-gley !

In the meantime, we hope that you will get some enjoyment from this abbreviated version which will become available earlynext week where you can access articles from each week’s E&L as well as recent editions of the digital version of the E&L.

Hopefully, this will enable you to keep up with what is happening in Eskdale and Liddesdale and we can all look forwardto the launch of the completed version of www.eladvertiser.co.uk later in the year.

And once you’ve tried it, let us know what you think of it – sharon@eladvertiser.co.uk

“Owned by the Community....................Published for the Community”

YOUR edition dated March26 featured a centre-pagespread devoted to the “bene-fits” of forestry in Eskdalemuir“Money does grow on treesin Eskdalemuir”.I admit I was uncertain whetherthis was an article or an advertfeaturing the company involved.The most striking image forme in the report was the viewshowing the former farmhouseand steadings.This represented only one ofthe many farming businessesand family homesteads whichwere cleared in the Eskdalemuirarea when the land was origi-nally sold to forestry interests.Virtually an entire communitywas removed. With farms and stock gone,there was a burst of activity ascontractors ploughed the landand planted sitka spruce.Practically nothing happenedfor, in the case documented, 50years. Now we are informedcontractors from outwith thislocality are harvesting the crop,resulting in a half century, inwhich the economy of the com-munity failed to receive any income relative to that previouslyseen and even now appears tobe receiving little benefit.This is the reality of commer-cial forestry as it is felt in theareas affected.

InvestorsCommunities are cleared forthe benefit of a few wealthy investors seeking the related taxbenefits.Currently, the Scottish gov-ernment’s poorly consideredforestry grant scheme is attract-ing speculators who have beenencouraged to view land in Scotland as one of the most lucrative investments in the market.It was these grants which per-suaded Buccleuch to end ten-ancies in the Borders in 2017/18.Despite denials at the time,many farm tenancies were endedor notified that they would beterminated.The farmland was planted incommercial forestry and thefarming businesses were history.The latest example is Bush ofEwes. This well-known and established unit was ploughedwithin the past few weeks andwill be planted shortly.It may have been because ofthe increasingly unwelcome pub-licity but, for whatever reason,Buccleuch changed tactics andoffered its newly-named Evertown Estate for sale on theopen market.

At a stroke most of that land was bought by J Jones Ltd, amajor timber processing com-pany.There had merely been achange of landowner to onewho was even less likely to endthe rush to close farms and planttrees.That your article was publishedwithin two weeks of the hillflock at Cleuchfoot Farm beingremoved was, at best, insensitive.

HeftedThis flock of heavily-in-lambewes, which had been hefted tothat hill for countless genera-tions, was taken off the hill byBuccleuch on the instructionsof an agent working for J JonesLtd.Fortunately, after an interven-tion by the SSPCA, the intendeddestination for the sheep wasdeemed to be an unsuitable one.Whether the substituted groundwill prove to be beneficial totheir welfare will no doubt unfold in weeks to come.Why these sheep had to beremoved is unknown. To date,no application to plant Cleuchfoot has been notified.Knowledgeable members ofthe forestry profession have indicated that it is highly unlikelythat any planting will begin before spring 2021.The forestry group, which hasbeen contracted to plant theground in due course, has saidits preferred option is to havethe ground grazed up to theplanting preparations starting.Perhaps J Jones Ltd or its

agent Gresham House may wish to clarify the position?Gresham House describes itself as Alternative Asset Man-agement and Investment Specialists.

UnsavouryPerhaps the most unsavouryaspect of the action taken isthat another farmer was, beforethe removal of the flock, offeredthe grazing on the hill oncecleared.Land ownership in Scotlandcontinues to be an issue whichneeds a major overhaul.Currently, we are subjected tothe actions of individuals andcommercial interests who appearto have little or no concern forthe communities affected.One large landowner has exited, only to be replaced byanother with the same intentions;to continue the New Clearances.

Aeneas M NicolsonBridge HouseLangholm

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser4 Thursday April 9, 2020

EMERGENCYNUMBERS

Letters to the editor Have your say on the issues affecting our area. You can write to us atEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser, 54 High Street, Langholm DG13 0JH or

email your comments to rachel.norris@eladvertiser.co.uk

Langshawburn in Eskdalemuir where Agriforest is felling a six-acre conifer plantation

Care forour carersNEW immigration rules arecoming into place, barring“unskilled” workers fromthe UK.The COVID-19 pandemichas shown the idea of“unskilled” people being ofless value to our country is notonly uncompassionate butevidently untrue.As well as those on thefrontline in healthcare such ascarers and cleaners, we nowknow that bus drivers andsupermarket and deliveryworkers have more thanproved their essential status.According to recent researchby the IPPR, two-thirds of theEU migrants currentlycontributing to our healthcaresystem would not have beenallowed into the country under the new system.

In the transport sector thefigure is 85 per cent. Thepeople currently holdingBritain together could be sentback later this year. Who willfill their jobs?That’s why I fully supportBest for Britain’s campaign toextend the Brexit transitionperiod until after thecoronavirus outbreak.That way, we can make surewe get a deal which works forBritain and the immigrantswho choose to make Britaintheir home.We mustn’t turn our back onthose who’ve helped usthrough this crisis. I think ifsomeone risks their safety tocare for Britain, we shouldcare for them.

Anthony LaneBeechwoodCanonbie

POLICE SCOTLANDLangholm.......................101Newcastleton ................ 101

COUNCILSDumfries and Galloway Council .................................030 3333 3000.............www.dumgal.gov.ukFault reporting (potholes/street-lights etc) ............................0800 042 0188Langholm Town Hall/Library ..013873 80255Dumfries and Gallowaybus timetableswww.dumgal.gov.uk/timetablesScottish Borders Council ....0330 100 1800out of hours ..01896 752 111Scottish Bordersbus timetables ......www.scotborders.gov.uk

UTILITIESScottish Water.....................0800 0778 778......www.scottishwater.co.ukScottish Power.......................................105.....www.scottishpower.co.ukScottish Gas emergency ....0800 111 999National Rail enquiries ........03457 484 950.........www.nationalrail.co.ukFloodline SEPA.....................03000 996 699.................www.sepa.org.ukAmey (A7) .....................0800 042 0188...www.scottishtrunkroadsse.amey.co.uk

POST OFFICESLangholm .....013873 81109Newcastleton ..013873 75361Canonbie ......013873 71348Rowanburn ...013873 71542

HOSPITALSD&G Royal Infirmary......................01387 246246Cumberland Infirmary......................01228 523444Borders General Hospital ...01896 826000Thomas Hope Hospital.....................013873 80417

DOCTORSLangholm .....013873 83100Newcastleton ..013873 75100Canonbie .....013873 71313NHS24 ...........................111

CHURCHESLangholm,Eskdalemuir Ewes andWesterkirk Parish churchesMs Joy LunnSession clerk...07584 357180Canonbie United Parish churchSession Clerk..013873 25255Liddesdale Parish churchSession Clerk..Glynis Cambridge07469 397065

SCHOOLSLangholm Primary......................013873 80900Langholm Academy......................013873 80418Newcastleton ......................013873 75240Canonbie ......................013873 71336

CHEMISTSDalston Pharmacy, Langholm......................013873 80220Monday to Friday8.45am -1pm; 2pm-5.30pm.Saturday 8.45am-12.30pm.Boots Pharmacy, Longtown ......................01228 792859Monday-Friday 9am - 6pm.Saturday 9am-5pm.

DENTISTSMark Buddy .013873 80521Emergency - outside opening hours

01461 202508

Please stayindoorsI APPEAL to all the peoplewho continue to do exactly asthey did before we went intolockdown.When we are told to stayindoors and shop only whennecessary, I don't think thismeans getting in the car andtravelling 20 miles to do so,especially when we have aperfectly good Co-op, Londisand two butchers right here inLangholm.We are luckier than most inthat we have beautifulcountryside right on ourdoorstep.The fact we are out on a limbmay just go in our favourthrough all this.However, if all you selfishpeople travel to Carlisle orHawick, you have a higher risk

of bringing this horrendousvirus back to Langholm. Onceit is here, God help us.So, I ask these people, I hopeyou could live with yourselvesif you brought this virus toLangholm and it hadcatastrophic consequences foryour loved ones and fellowLangholmites.We have to do as we are toldfor the sake of our wee town,not to mention shoppinglocally and helping oureconomy.All the shops in Langholmare going way beyond what isbeing asked of them.At a time like this I think weshould all pull together, shoplocally and play a part inhelping eradicate thispandemic.Stay Safe.

Name and address supplied

Forestry forcedout our farmers

In response, Jason Sinden of Gresham Housesaid: “The Tansy Hill section of the Evertown portfolio was bought by James Jonesearlier last year with vacant possession; there wasno tenancy agreement in place.“Buccleuch had a seasonal agreement to havesheep on the hill and it was agreed that this agree-ment could be extended and the sheep could stayuntil March 15 2020 when they would be movedto lower ground for lambing.“This has now occurred and the sheep are enjoyingthe lowland pastures at Mouldyhills, an in-handestate farm south of Langholm.“We considered the merits of extending thegrazing of these sheep and took advice from a vetand a shepherd before moving them.“The advice, which we had, was that delaying amove would make it more difficult to move thesheep while complying with welfare standards so,if not moved to low ground for lambing, wouldhave to remain on Tansy hill until the autumn.“A planting proposal has recently been submittedfor the site and operations will begin once wehave approval.“We have arranged seasonal grazing with a localfarmer while we gain approval which allows forthe grazing sheep to be moved off the hill, givenreasonable notice.”

Thursday April 9, 2020 5

EWM denies it hastreated staff badly Ewes WRI

stalwartONE of the Ewes valley’s mostwell-known figures has died.Isa Cavers, 88, who lived at

Sorbie Farm with her husband,Tom, died on Sunday. She wasa mother, grandmother andgreat-grandmother.Isa was a long-standing mem-

ber of Ewes WRI and servedon the committee and still at-tended meetings occasionally,despite her declining health.Grace Brown, also a member,

said Isa was very talented atknitting, sewing and baking andused to enter exhibits at theshows. She also helped withthe Christmas shoeboxes.

____________________

Zero wastepark planA PLANNING application hasbeen submitted by Dumfriesand Galloway Council to builda zero waste park in LockerbieRoad, Dumfries.

Redundancies were “out of the blue” and “heartless”, it’s claimedSTAFF made redundant byEdinburgh Woollen Mill saythe company was heartlessnot to re-employ them afterthe UK government intro-duced a scheme to retainworkers laid off because ofthe coronavirus.Nineteen employees lost their

jobs at the major retailersCarlisle headquarters last monthbecause footfall at its 1,300stores collapsed.A few days later the govern-

ment implemented furloughleave, pledging to cover 80 percent of wages of workers tem-porarily laid off.The scheme included an option

for claims to be backdated toMarch 1 for businesses whichhad acted before the announce-ment. A worker, who wanted to

remain anonymous, appealed tobosses for them and their col-leagues to be reinstated and puton the furlough leave.But EWM, owned by billion-

aire Philip Day, said it saw no

future for the redundant rolesas it braced itself for the long-term impact of the pandemicon its retail businesses.The former employee, who

worked at EWM Group for justover three months, said she wasshocked, angry and confusedby its handling of the redun-dancies, which focused on thosewho had most recently joined.She said: “The way they dealt

with us was really unfair; it washeartless. There was no warning;it came out of the blue.“I think we should have been

given the chance to get thatgovernment support. It’s a timewhen employers should supporttheir people.”The company had to temporar-

ily close all its stores, alongwith all other businesses deemednon-essential, as instructed bythe government. A spokesman said: “When we

made the redundancies, we didso because we sadly don’t be-lieve these jobs will be there inthe future. They won’t come

back on the other side of this.“This is not a temporary blip;

things aren’t going to improvein a few months and keep improving.

Difficult“It’s hard to understate the

impact this is having on retailersright now.

“The redundancies were a verydifficult decision for us and theteam and it wasn’t taken lightly. “It looks like this will go on

for six, 12, possibly 18 monthsand shopping habits and thehigh street will change for good.”He said the company had

looked very carefully at rehiringredundant staff and placing them

on the furlough leave. “It sounds easy on the face of

it but it is a lot more complicatedand unclear than that. We haveto be honest with staff and thegovernment.“If we rehired, we would have

to go through the painful processof making these people redun-dant again after three months.“We would also be claiming

government funding to pay forthe bulk of people’s wages,knowing we will ultimately bemaking them redundant. Thatisn’t fair on anyone.”He denied claims the company

had been heartless in its approach. Accepting there was no easy

way to deliver that kind of news,he added: “We went throughthe process as properly and responsibly as possible. “The people affected had been

with us for a shorter time sothere was no need for a longconsultation period. We madesure everyone was properlypaid.”

IN BRIEF

THE rainbow pictures, whichhave been appearing in windowsall over Langholm, have inspiredan idea for a competition.Alison Hotchkiss, a counsellor for

Langholm and Canonbie SchoolsCluster, said: “It all started by seeingthe lovely rainbow windows alreadyin the town and my wish to dosomething to encourage all the chil-dren and young people in our areato fill up spaces with rainbows tohelp people, who see them, to smile.“It has also grown as a way of

showing support in working togetherto make life the best it can be,something Langholm and the sur-rounding area have shown duringthis quarantine period.“I didn’t want to limit it to school

children so the competition is splitinto four age groups: under five;under 10; under 15; and 15 to 18.”Adam German, the Langholm

Academy art teacher, has agreed tobe the judge.Entries will have to be submitted

online but it does mean that everyonewill be able to see them.The prize for each age group

winner will be an Amazon giftvoucher.

127-129 High Street � Annan � DG12 6EBTel: 01461 759271 � Mob: 07885 444545

jcflowersbyjoan@gmail.com � www.flowersbyjoan.co.uk

JC Florist LtdBespoke flowers designed

for all occasionsFlowers by Joan

Thank you to everyone for your continued support, I am looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

Even though the shop has temporarily closed I am working from home and can be contacted on the same numbers.

Deliveries are still possible with precautions in place following government guidelines.

Gobal House, The Edinburgh Woollen Mill headquarters in Carlisle

Rainbows shine a light

One of the many windows in the area trying to shine a light on thegloom with a rainbow

Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser • Owned by the Community : Published by the Community

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser

Farming on the BorderIn association with

C & D AUCTION MARTS - LONGTOWN & DUMFRIES

6 Thursday April 9, 2020

C&D Auction Marts Limited hadforward 3,113 sheep comprising2,610 prime hoggs, 233 store hoggsand 270 cast ewes and rams at theweekly sale at Longtown on Thurs-day, April 2.A small entry of cast cows, with

meat in short supply, was forwardto the usual buyers and trade remainsbuoyant for all classes, thereforemore still required weekly to fulfildemand. Cows to 125p from J WDavison & Co, Crosslee Farm, Et-trick. There is also a regular marketfor store cattle at these Thursdaysales.An increased entry of prime hoggs,

which included a big entry of heavyhoggs, met a very competitive ring,

with buyers operating multiple activeaccounts, ensuring all classes werevery well bid for; an increase of34ppk on the week being achieved.Topping the sale at 334ppk was apen of Beltex hoggs from MessrsR & M Patterson, Upper Auchenlay,who also gained top price per headof £137 again for Beltex hoggs.The best Beltex export hoggs sold

at serious rates with many pensmaking well over 310ppk.Commercial hoggs traded between

220ppk-230ppk, with buyers goinghome short of supply.Hill hoggs sold to £107 for

Cheviots from J Jardine, Yett farm,with Blackfaces to £103 from MessrsMcArthur, Arnicle, Campbeltown.

Overall average 212p (SQQ 221.9p) All classes can be sold to vendors’

advantage at Longtown. “Sell liveand thrive.”For further advice on marketing

your livestock in these difficulttimes please do not hesitate to con-tact our auctioneers: John Walton07880 527 066, Nick Woodmass07584 200 489, Sam Hogg 07584207 323.Principal prices (per kilo): Belt

334p Upper Auchenlay, 307pTowiemore, 305p, 304p UpperAuchenlay. Tex 308p Golden Lane,307p Kirkhouse, 305p Golden Lane.Chev 233p Rowhope, 226p TheLand, 225p Halgary & LongburghFauld. Mule 226p Kirkhouse, 220p

Rowhope, 213p Blakehopeburn-haugh. BF 222p Arnicle, 220p, 218p,213p Sykehead. HW 214p CleaHall, 211 Rowhead & Clea Hall.Chev M 211p Whitchester. Suff210p Towiemore, 203p Drimsynie,202p High Machriemore.Principal prices (per head): Belt

£137 Upper Auchenlay, £136Broomhills, £132 Towiemore. Tex£135 Kirhouse, £130 Kirtlebank,£126 Station Yard. Suff £117Auchengray, £115 Kirkhouse. Chev£107 Yett, £103 The Lan, £102Thistledown. Char £107 SceughDyke, £104 Auchengray. Mule £103Towiemore, £100 Kirkhouse. BF£103 Arnicle, £100 Sonachan Cot-tages. NCC £103 Rowhope. Chev

M £99 Whitchester. Herdwicks £95,£86 Rowhead.Cast ewes, again in short supply,

met an increased enquiry, ensuringall vendors are highly delightedwith their day’s trading. Toppingthe sale at £140 was a pen of Texelewes consigned by Messrs D & DAitken, Uppercleugh.Hill ewes topped at £95 for

Cheviot ewes consigned by M/s JTFleming, Falnash, with Blackfaceewes scaling to £86 for a penfulconsigned by M/s RD Dixon, Cow-burn Farm, Corrie.Many more are required weekly

for an increased demand. Please donot hesitate to contact our auctioneersfor further enquiries.

Heavy ewes: Tex £140, £136 Up-percleuch, £130 Burnside. Char£118 Upper Auchenlay. NCC £108Blakehope. Suff £102 Haregill Cot-tage, £100 Burnside.Chev M £91 Falnash.Light ewes: Chev £95 Falnash.

BF £86 Cowburn, £70 Ellary.Rams: Tex £96 Dempster. Chev

£82 Ardchonnel. Zwart £80Clochkeil. BF £77 Brenchoille.Averages. Hoggs: light to 200p

(186.3p); standard to 308p (219.9p);medium to 334p (224.5p); heavyto 283p (199.1p). Ewes: light to£95 (£59.41); heavy to £140(£78.35). Rams: £96 (£75.76).

____________________

Around the marts

Project to reverse25 years of decline

Make a planfor being illFARMING consultants havecreated an emergency docu-ment to help farmers planahead in case they fall illduring the coronavirus pan-demic.With sheep enterprises in par-

ticular facing a challenginglambing season, farmers are being urged to make a plan Bas soon as possible.The emergency plan template,

created by the Farm AdvisoryService (FAS), allows farmersto record the names and num-bers of key contacts such asvets, feed representatives, accountants and contractors.They can also provide infor-

mation about where stock ishoused, including in isolated,outlying steadings and out-winterings and when lambingor calving is due to start.Chloe McCulloch, principal

consultant at SAC Consulting,part of Scotland’s Rural College,which delivers the FAS pro-gramme, urged farmers to com-plete the document as soon aspossible.“The key to success this year,

regardless of the type of farm,is to have a robust plan andtake some time to think throughwhat you would do and whoyou would phone in the eventyou or members of the teambecome unwell,” she said. “The template won’t take long

to complete and will ensurethat, if you become ill, yourlivestock can still be cared for.”Farmers can download the

template from the FAS websiteand are advised to keep it some-where accessible to all staff

such as the farm office.More templates allowing farm-

ers to record sector-specific information are available onthe website, together with additional guidance and infor-mation, including support forless-experienced people whomay find themselves helpingon the farm.There are links to other sources

of support during the crisis andinformation about how they areable to help with this specificchallenge, including the farmers’charity RSABI which can becontacted on 0300 111 4166for help in preparing an emer-gency plan or putting farmersin touch with a labour exchangeor consultant.For more information visit

www.fas.scotFarmers and the Scottish food

and drink sector are workinghard to ensure consumers’ platesremain full As Easter approaches, NFU

Scotland remains fully com-mitted to its pledge of keepingpeople fed during the COVID-19 crisis.There isn’t a single part of

the agricultural industry andfood supply chain which isn’tworking flat out to find a waythrough what is an unparalleledperiod of disruption.There have been unprecedent-

ed levels of collaboration, co-operation and innovation.“Farmers are currently work-

ing flat out during spring whichbrings lambing, calving, plough-ing and planting, all of whichwill guarantee security of foodsupplies in the future.”

FARMERS and land man-agers have an important roleto play in reversing the declining numbers of wadingbirds in Scotland.The Working for Waders

annual report highlights a steepdecline in the number of wadingbirds, including lapwings, oys-tercatchers and curlews, overthe past 25 years.It warns that, without urgent

action, these iconic birds couldsoon be lost. Working for Waders is

co-chaired by Scotland’s RuralCollege (SRUC) and ScottishNatural Heritage (SNH).It was set up in 2017 to raise

awareness of wader declines,

show how these declines canbe reversed and demonstratethe importance of partnershipworking.Wader declines in Scotland

are believed to be linked toproblems around breeding because of changes in the coun-tryside over the last few decades. Several species are now strug-

gling to produce enough young-sters to replace natural mortalityand the report highlights theimportant role farmers and landmanagers can play when itcomes to wader conservation.The report says that, while

past agricultural intensificationhas driven wader decline insome parts of the country, the

conservation of waders is rarelyabout removing productive landfrom use. Some of the best habitat results

come from targeting efforts towards rougher, wetter landand making sure it delivers forwildlife.This includes creating wetland

habitats by not draining wet areas in fields, introducing sea-sonal grazing to prevent damageto eggs or chicks during theApril to June breeding seasonand controlling predators ofground-nesting birds such asfoxes.

Win-winsProfessor Davy McCracken,

head of SRUC’s Hill & Mountain Research Centre andco-chairman of the group, said:“Some actions can be win-winsfor farmers because they benefitboth agricultural productivityand the waders.“For example, applying lime

to improve soil pH can increasethe abundance of invertebrateson which the birds prey.“Outwith the breeding season

cutting rushes gives birds accessto those invertebrates over agreater area in any one field.“It’s becoming clear that, to

be effective, wader conservationhas to be rolled out across largeareas, with collaborative projectsinvolving multiple farms, estatesand landholdings.”Robbie Kernahan, acting

director of sustainable growth

at SNH, said: “The Workingfor Waders initiative plays animportant role in protecting ourcurlews, lapwings and oyster-catchers.“As we begin to see them

return to their breeding groundsin Scotland, we would like tolet people know that anyonecan get in touch with the Working for Waders project,get involved and help protectthese wonderful birds. “Waders are an integral part

of Scotland’s nature and, byworking together, we have thebest possible opportunity tohelp them thrive.”Working for Waders is looking

to encourage and help morefarmers to undertake collabo-rative management to increasewader numbers on their farms.It has set up wader maps to

show what work is currentlybeing done to reverse the declining numbers and whereresources need to be targeted.The British Trust for

Ornithology and James HuttonInstitute have produced waderhot spot/cold spot maps showingchanges in wader populations.Working for Waders also sup-

ports action on the ground,backing projects which engageand inspire people to get involved with conservationwork.For more information visit

www.workingforwaders.com

Lapwings are among the waders declining in Scotland

Thursday April 9, 2020 7

Farmers plough onwith lambing season

Tub’s BallcancelledCOPSHAW Common Ridingcommittee has decided to cancelthe Tub’s Ball which was dueto take place on May 16.The committee regrets this

but, because of COVID-19, itsfirst priority is the health andsafety of all involved and tothe villagers.Further announcements about

other Common Riding eventswill be made in due course.

____________________

Signs helpvillageSIGNS declaring that Newcastleton is a 'communityisolating' and Do Not Enterhave been placed at both endsof the village.This is a community council

initiative and has been supportedby a lot of people but othersare questioning whether it's agood idea.They point out that people

still have to leave the village toget to work and deliveries haveto come in.Greg Cuthbert, council vice-

chairman, said: “It's for the peo-ple who have been ignoring thegovernment guidelines.”

Livestock mart perseveres, despite drop in numbers and pricesTHE chairman of the auction mart inLongtown says they will continue toprovide their services in this time ofcrisis.Livestock numbers are down and prices

lower and the mart is selling only prime-stock – store cattle and store sheep –once a week but it can’t sell breedingsheep or cattle.John Thomson, chairman. said: “A lot

of marts didn’t open two weeks ago butwe persevered. Although numbers werelower and prices down, it was encour-aging there was no collapse. We stillhad eight buyers for prime sheep.“We feel that confidence will stabilise

and trade will be better but not up toprevious levels.“At the moment, we’re liaising with

staff on jobs and we hope to keep asmany as possible. We’re not intendingto lay off anyone permanently. At thistime of year a number always leave togo lambing.“The self-isolation at the mart has been

very good. Sellers are dropping off theirstock and going to reduce the footprintof people at the site.”Mr Thomson praised the UK govern-

ment and said it could not have done

more and had made a genuine effort.He added: “Its policy has been dead

right but where this will all end, I don’tknow.”Farmer Andrew Elliot of Burnfoot at

Ewes said they had plenty of feed in forlivestock and as far as he knew the foodsupply chain was doing okay.

CalvingHe said: “We don’t use a lot of bought-

in food and we’re not affected by theprice of stock because we don’t sellanything at this time of year.“I’m busy calving at the moment and

we don’t start lambing until mid-April.We have 1,500 ewes to lamb. We’regetting someone to help with the lambingand he’ll be living in.”Ron Weir, of Westerhall Farm in West-

erkirk, is busy lambing and his wife,Sheila, said he had not left the farm.There were no problems with getting

sheep feed but Sheila said she wasfinding it hard to find the dairy-freemilk, butter and cheese she needs.Online shops were not taking on new

customers so she might have to go toCarlisle to buy some.Neil Imrie, of Harelawhole near

Canonbie, said it was all systems go onthe farm.He said: “It’s a bit like foot and mouth

for us. We’ve barricaded ourselves inand are keeping to ourselves.“We calve all year round and friends

have their sheep here and they’re lambing

as well. It’s easier when the sun shines.”Neil said he always planned well ahead

when buying feed for the livestock butdistilleries, which supplied moist feed,were closing their doors.He said: “I always forward buy and

pre-empt what is going to happen. Pricesare going up but I bought the feed at thewinter price.“Traditionally, it goes up in April and

May but I can buy it at a set price goinginto the summer.”

WeatherKen Porter, of Tanlawhill in Westerkirk,

started lambing his 1,100 last week,some indoors and some outdoors so hehas welcomed the better weather.He hasn’t recruited extra help because

of the lockdown and is managing withthe usual staff.He said: “We thought we’d make do

with who we have. We didn’t want tobring in anyone extra.”He has plenty of feed and when he

needs things for the tractors, they aredropped at the road ends so everyone isbeing very sensible about keeping contactto a minimum.

IN BRIEF

LOREBURN Housing Association has takensteps to identify tenants aged over 70 andthose who may be more vulnerable in thecurrent circumstances. After implementing a business continuity

plan and moving the workforce to home-working, an immediate action was to identifythose who need more support. Sue Irving, director of housing services,

said: “We identified everyone, who may needhelp, by cross-checking our digital databasewith our teams’ extensive knowledge of ourcustomers. “We made more than 500 individual calls in

a few days to reach everyone.“We’ve identified anyone who might benefit

from an extra check, even something as simpleas a regular phone call from one of our teamto help with feelings of loneliness and isolationas the weeks progress.“For others, we can help to signpost and

make sure people have what they need. We’reworking with third sector organisations to ensure our customers are not left without es-sential items or services.“We’re here to help communities and this is

something we naturally want to do for ourcustomers.”Anyone, who hasn’t had a call but would

like to hear from Loreburn, is encouraged toget in touch. Ring 01387 321300 for general enquiries

and 01387 321400 for repairs reporting.Regular updates are at loreburn.org.uk andon social media, including Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.The Covid-19 crisis presents challenges to

other services, including repairs and mainte-nance.Sue added: “Service delivery in some areas

is understandably challenging. We’re stilldoing emergency repairs, servicing gas boilersand other safety-critical work.“If anyone can’t allow access because they’re

self-isolating, we ask that they tell us so wecan make another appointment when it is safeto do so.“We’re writing to everyone as soon as we

have information to share. Our customershave been very understanding of the difficultieswe face but, naturally, want to be reassuredthat we’re doing all we can to deal with anyissues and resuming services as quickly aspossible.”

TheE & L Gallery

born in 1848 ...... and still going strong!

Send us your photographs!Every week we publish a reader’s photo onour Gallery page. This can be taken on aphone or a camera. Submit your photos tothe Editor who will select the best forpublication. Let us know what camera orphone you took it on.Email them to sharon@eladvertiser.co.ukor drop a printed copy into our office at 54 High Street, Langholm.

Photo by: Caitlin Weatherstone

Ron Weir of Westerhall at last year’s Bentyshow

Help for the vulnerable

Sue Irving, director of housing services at Loreburn

Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser • Owned by the Community : Published by the Community

www.eladvertiser.co.uk Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser Thursday April 9, 2020 9 www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser8 Thursday April 9, 2020

When I joined BorderTV in 1986, I thoughtI’d be given training

before being allowed on screen- a period of induction, achance to familiarise myselfwith the studio environmentand the completely newexperience of addressing acamera. Wrong. I hit theground running – appearingon Lookaround on my veryfirst day, launched on anunsuspecting world asBorder’s newreporter/presenter. I had been a journalist forabout seven years by thattime – first on newspapers inDoncaster, then onNorthsound radio inAberdeen. No-one expected togo straight into the hallowedterritory of TV without doingan apprenticeship first. Intruth I never expected to gointo broadcast journalism atall – my Aberdonian accentwas a definite disadvantageand anyway, all I wanted todo was write. My ambitionslay with magazines, but fatetook me to the wee squarebox.

DigitalHard to imagine in thisdigital age, but Border stillworked on film then, andnews stories were a teamoperation, with (in order ofimportance) - cameraman,soundman, electrician andreporter. The first three wouldbegin work at around 8.30am,with a sacrosanct first halfhour spent getting equipmentready. We hapless reporterswould regularly be urged bythe newsdesk to get on theroad earlier, but we’d be metwith withering looks if weeven tried. We would generally covertwo stories in a day – the firstoften intended for that

evening’s Lookaround, and thesecond a shelf item as therewouldn’t be time enough toget it back to base, processedand edited. We coveredcountless miles in the crewvans, but always stopped forcoffee and bacon rolls enroute. Latterly the crews werepersuaded to carry brew-making facilities in the vansto save time, but before that Igot to know every café in theregion. At the first location I wouldchat to the interviewee(s) toput them at ease, while theCameraman checked outangles and the Sparks set uplights, often rearrangingfurniture to accommodate.The soundman would attach amic to me, and ask for voicelevels, so inevitably I’d ask theinterviewee to tell me whatthey’d had for breakfast. Oneperson said ‘pickled possum’ –to this day I still hope thatwas a joke. Film cartridges were justeight minutes long (if memoryserves me right) andcameramen took it as apersonal affront if they had toload up a second. Longrambling questions and

answers were to be avoided atall costs and reporters wereexpected to do pieces-to-camera in a couple of takes –better still, one.The whole thingwould be sentback to Carlislecomplete withdetailedinstructions tothe editor,then pre-mobile

phones, the hunt would beginfor a phone box to let thenewsdesk know the job wascomplete. On Lookaround nights themake-up lady would have theunenviable task of making mywindswept and dishevelledperson presentable enough togo on screen, there would bea swift rehearsal to checktimings and links, and ifwe were lucky, a few

minutes to chat to any studioguests. More often it was justone mad rush, but somehowthings generally worked outokay. I saw and experienced manychanges in my years at Border– not only from film to video,and phone kiosk to mobile, buteven from typewriter tocomputer. I never had to filmmy own reports but the

techniques Ilearned gave methe skills to createmy own dvd’s when Iwent freelance. Itwas a crackingperiod in my lifeand

one I wouldn’t have missed forthe world.

Lori Carnochanbrings us rightup to date with

a glimpse behind thescenes into today’sBorder TV

I've worked as a journalist atITV Border for seven years,and although the jobdescription might beunrecognisable from what itwould have been thirty yearsago, it's still a real privilege toshare the stories that mattermost to your community. It'sone of the reasons I wanted tojoin the profession.Any preconceptions of aglamorous TV reporterlifestyle quickly evaporatedwhen I arrived at university. Iwas handed a camera and toldto go out on to the streets ofEdinburgh and find a story.This was the reality of themodern journalist - find yourown stories, film them andedit them. And it set me upwell for my future at Border.During five years withBorder news, a typical day

would involve a quick call tothe news editor to confirmwhat story I would beproviding for the programme.I would then drive to alocation in Dumfries andGalloway and film for a coupleof hours. I would then writemy script, record myvoiceover, edit everything onmy laptop, and send it via theinternet to the main hub inCarlisle - all before the 4pmdeadline.

RemoteAs a remote reporterworking from home inDumfries, there wasn’t a teamof people around to help whenthings went awry. So if I wasin the middle of Wigtownshirewith no phone signal orinternet connection, and mymain interviewee was late,jeopardising my chances ofmaking the deadline - it wastough cookie. I always had areal sense of pride when thefinished package was aired onthe 6pm news.I've worked for Border Life,our non-news programme, fortwo and a half years now. Myjob title is still on-screen

journalist, but the rolerequires me to be everythingfrom researcher to director,and everything in between. Istill source my own stories -

which for me is a realhighlight of the job. We oftenfilm for a whole day at a time,rather than the hour or twoallowed for news and usuallywork with a camera operatorwhich is a real luxury afterself-shooting for most of mycareer.

JugglingThe long shoot days mean Ihave to be not only reporterand presenter, but also thecamera operator's director. It'sa real challenge juggling somany roles at once, and I'mconstantly learning new skills.I spend around a day editingmy item, then another daywith our in-house editor, whoadds his magic touch withfancy editing tricks.Making programmes comeswith a whole host ofadditional complianceregulations so I’m alsoresponsible for completingrisk assessments, consentforms, location agreementsand so on.I quite often visit local

Primary and Secondaryschools to talk about my job.It's amazing how many of thestudents still believe you'regiven a makeup artist, hairstylist and a budget for yourwardrobe. Those days are longgone.Away from the day-to-day jobresponsibilities, I engage withour viewers via social media.It's an incredible tool to havein your repertoire, and I'vefound many stories throughinteraction with localcommunities online. It meansyou're always accessible so Ican never really switch offfrom the job. But that's thename of the game.I suppose you could say thatthe modern-day broadcastjournalist is a Jack of alltrades, and a master of none.But I see it as a privilege,being able to own your storyright from conception, throughto filming and editing, andfinally broadcast. Sure it's achallenge, but it's one I love.

Gilly interviewing children's TV presenter Stu Francis Lori Carnochan in interview mode in the studio

Taking a look at the way things have changed over the years. Gilly Fraser remembers life as it used to be as a Border TV reporter.

Reporters always have a go - Lori trying her hand at curling

The Way We Were......The Way We Are

Gilly riding Grand National winner Rubstic during ITV Telethon

E&L LifeFeature

An

E&L YoungReporter AmberFoster knows

that rabbits aren’t justfor Easter – here shetells us about two veryspecial rabbits. “I've loved and looked

after my two rabbits formany years. Sadly,they have both nowpassed away, but Iwanted to tell you howmuch I loved them andto give you some tipson how to keep rabbitshealthy and happy. Their names were

Barley and Buster.They were both boys.Barley was calm,adventurous andhappy, while Busterwas feisty, adventurousand quick. Barley's furwas brown at the backwith a white face andtummy/back and hiseyes were dark brown.Buster's fur was mostlywhite with black spots,one of his eyes wasbrown and the otherwas blue.“They lived in my

shed which they

hadufull run of, withtheir hutch in onecorner. They had bigrocks to climb over,logs to nibble, twigs tonibble, we even put thetwigs up high so theyhad to stretch and theyhad tunnels to run inand out of.“Every day I would

make sure they hadplenty of hay to keeptheir teeth down, aswell as food and water.They used to get somevegetables in theafternoon when I gothome from school. Wewould collect twigs forthem like hazel, silverbirch and willow. Thosewere their favourites.“Sometimes I would

sit in the garden withthem if it was sunny. IfI lay down in the grassthey would climb over

me. I would sometimesput a cardboard box outso they could havesome shade. They werevery adventurous andloved to nibble atanything they could gettheir paws on. I missthem both very much.”

By Amber Foster age11 and a half

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser10 Thursday April 9, 2020

CentreprogressPROGRESS on redevelopingthe Townfoot Sports Centre inLangholm continues.During the COVID-19 pan-

demic the working group, whomanage and co-ordinate the redevelopment project, areworking from home and makingprogress, aided by consultantRobert Potter & Partners.All the field surveys for the

design feasibility phase havebeen completed.This includes measured, con-

dition and structural surveys,an engineer/services survey anda topographical survey of thearea available as part of the redevelopment.The design consultant is now

drafting the project brief anddeveloping layout options. Thegroup expects to receive theseby mid-April and they will beshared as soon as it is possible.Meanwhile, the group is

developing the framework forthe business plan and drawingup a list of potential funders.It hopes to make good progress

this month.During April and early May

the project will discuss the development of layout optionsand draft reports with the designconsultant it is hoped the designfeasibility study will be com-pleted by the end of May.Campbell Scott, the group’s

chairman, said: “The next stepwould be to communicate anddiscuss the design proposalswith the community, ideallythrough a public forum such asmeetings in various venues.“However, given the current

situation, this will probably bedifficult to do. We will keepeveryone fully informed ofprogress via the newsletter andupdates on our Facebook page.“We'll also look at different

ways we might be able to consultthe community.”

A sweeterisolationLIVING in self-isolation wasmade just a little bit sweeterfor 130 households in Newcastleton with the unexpected arrival on thedoorstep of some special treats.Packages of home-baked

goodies were delivered by aband of helpers from the vil-lage’s resilience committee.The treats were all made by

villager Diane Adamson, whoseoven must surely have goneinto overdrive to cope with theextra work.The lucky recipients of the

goody bags were clearly delighted with the gifts andwere swift to express their appreciation on Facebook.It’s just one of a number of

initiatives being planned by thecommunity to help those cur-rently in self-isolation. Amber gives us tips on how to look after a rabbit

HOW TO LOOK AFTER A RABBITMake sure they have:● constant supply of hay● water● company of their own species● rabbit food● bedding● safe place to live● interesting features to play onAlso● move things about and add new things regularly● keep their home clean and tidy● just love them and spend time with them● check their nails and keep short

‘I still believe in Santa, theEaster Bunny, the Tooth Fairy

and true love. Don’t even try to tell me

different.’ Dolly Parton

EasterBunnies

Amber looked after Barley and Buster for many years

FACTS ABOUT RABBITS● they can live up to about 10 years● lettuce is poisonous as are many other foods (doa lot of research)● males are cuddlier● they need their nails clipped● spend a lot of time handling them when they areyoung● they need a lot of space to hop, dig, run andchase● they need fibre 24/7

E&L LifeFeature

An

Thursday April 9, 2020 11 Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser • Owned by the Community : Published by the Community

Kia ora from Aotearoa

The Kennedy family from Newcastleton

Ewan Kennedy using pedal power

by Heather Kennedy of Newcastleton

HELLO from New Zealandor Land of the Long WhiteCloud, as the Maori nametranslates.I am a junior doctor, currently

working in the city ofChristchurch on the South Island.As someone who grew up

in Copshaw Holm, I reallycouldn't be further away fromhome.I moved here last November

after training and working inEdinburgh.I was unsure about which

medical speciality to go intoand was keen to experienceliving and working in anothercountry for a period of time.My year away has been

steadily increasing in duration,which is testament to the pos-itive experience I have hadso far.I quickly settled into life in

Christchurch, being made tofeel at home by both my sur-roundings and the friendly Kiwis (New Zealanders).The similar landscapes and

way of living have remindedme a lot of Scotland, withonly the time difference as aconstant reminder of the dis-tance from family and friends.The Scottish influence on

South Island is often apparent;mountain biking at Cardrona,NZ and Cardrona, ScottishBorders have both brought a

smile to my face.I have assured many Kiwis

that the word ‘wee’ is definitelyScottish in origin but havebeen confused by many Kiwiwords and phrases such asjandals (flip-flops), tramping(hiking/hillwalking) and sweet(good/cool/ok).For me, the main attraction

of the country was the vastarray of outdoor activities.On my doorstep there are

beautiful hills with a widerange of trails for walking,running and mountain biking.I can get to the beach for

swimming or surfing in 20minutes and in winter I canbe at a ski field in under twohours.During my annual leave I

have taken the opportunityto travel further afield and enjoyed the varied sceneryand options for adventure.My family visited in January,

which was really special, andour action-packed holiday included a visit to Hobbitonand a relaxed day cycling be-tween vineyards in the sun-drenched Marlborough wineregion.

COVID-19Of course, New Zealand has

not escaped the COVID-19pandemic and life here hasnot carried on as usual.The spread of the disease to

the country occurred later thanthat in Europe and, currently,the case numbers are fewer

and rate of spread is less.Border control and lock-

down measures were imple-mented far earlier than inthe UK and I’m hopeful thatthe toll on the population andhealth service is compara-tively less. It has been difficult to watch

the news and hear about theimpact on family and friendsback home, especially fellowhealthcare workers.It is sobering that the free-

dom of movement aroundthe world which allowed meto move here in the first placehas propagated the spread

of this terrible virus.However, I have seen first-

hand the resilience and com-passion which a tragic eventsuch as this brings out inpeople from the Christchurchmosque attacks last year.Closer to home, the com-

munity spirit and kindnessshown during the recent

flooding in Newcastleton willprovide a defence againstthis new challenge.I'm hoping to visit bonnie

Scotland in August but feelgrateful for the connectionof messages, photos andvideo calls in the meantime.Kia kaha; stay strong.

Whanganui River

QuizAnswersfrom E&L Advertiser April 2, 2020

1) Music & Arts Quiz by The Telfords

Monarch of the Glen1Andy Warhol2Frida Kahlo3Vincent van Gogh4Tracy Emin5Dougie Mclean6Deacon Blue7Rocket Man8Billie Eilish9Dave10Stormzy11The Sex Pistols12Simple Minds13The Proclaimers14Flower of Scotland15

____________________

2 ) Rugby Quiz by Kenneth Pool

Tony Stanger & 1Jeremy GuscottNeil Jenkins2John Goodfellow31988419855Scotland 1999 & 6England 2000Jason Robinson719808Phil Bennett9Irving Davidson10Lineout11Neil Stevenson &12Tommy ElliotJohnny Gray & 13Huw JonesEric Beattie14Played for both teams in15his semi-junior career6516Lewis Miller17Jamie Heaslip18Scott Johnson19Tom Scott & 20Hector Monro

____________________

Action onclimateDUMFRIES and Galloway Council is pushing on with plansto create a climate emergencycitizens’ panel.The cross-party working group

on the climate emergency updatedthe COVID-19 sub-committeeon its progress in implementingits 12-point plan.Councillor Elaine Murray, coun-

cil leader, said: “Last June wedeclared a climate emergencyand agreed the action plan.“Members were clear they want-

ed to progress at pace to deliverour commitments and early action.“We’re urgently reviewing all

Council policy and practice toidentify ways to reduce our carbonimpact.” The Kennedy family visit New Zealand’s Hobbiton

Heather in Mount Cook National Park

Pedal power in the NZ vineyards

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser12 Thursday April 9, 2020

Times Past

80 years: Presbytery Tribute to late Mr J S LaidlawAt a meeting of Hawick presbytery on Wednesday Rev. William Lindsay MA paid tribute to thelate Mr Laidlaw, Langholm, who was an elder of Langholm Parish Church. Mr Lindsay said thepresbytery had lost by the death of a valuable member of Mr Laidlaw who was ordained to theeldership of Langholm Parish Church in 1901 He was a faithful member of the church attendingmost regularly and performing the duties of elder very faithfully. He took a great interest in reli-gious matters in Langholm often conducting mission meetings in the hall there in connectionwith the town Mission, and those who came in contact with him looked on him as a man whowas sincere. Although he did not take part very much in the deliberations of the Presbytery, hispresence would be missed.

25 years:£420 boost for summer outingAround £420 was raised towards the summer outing for the elderly with a coffee morning in theMission Hall on Saturday. The event was organised by the Langholm branch of Age Concern andSecretary Sheila Calvert said later; “The committee of Age Concern would like to thank everyonewho either gave donations or helped at the coffee morning which was a great success. The sum of£420 was realised.” Raffle winners were – Hamper, Betty Borthwick; wine Nan Irving, WindsorGreenwood, Helen Fisher, May Harkness; Easter eggs, Mrs Dickson, Molly Milligan; skirt lengthK Bell; chocolates Kathy Robinson, Jean Goodfellow, Elaine Anderson; juice container Peg Hotson; flowers Daisy Hatfield; fruit Sheila Calvert; shortbread Lena Little; “smellies” BettyCairns; drawer liners Margaret Wilkinson; mini Easter eggs Dorothy Irving ; Matchmakers JeanMcVittie; Quality Street Nancy Barnfather; passion fruit fizz Peg Hotson; biscuits May Youngand Jean Herbertson.

100 years: Machine Gun HenAn egg laying record is that imported from America where a hen has laid 16 eggs in a day. Thirteen of the eggs were laid before a witness who has sworn an oath on the presence of ajudge that these 13 eggs were laid by the hen without getting off her nest to take a breath! Thehen belongs to an American and is a White Rock. She is called the “The Machine Gun Pullet” orthe “Magazine Hen” and sceptics who have visited her have come away converted. She does notlay 16 eggs every day; that is her highest record; but she maintains a good daily average, havingproduced 151 eggs in a month and 77 in one month. She is a very particular bird, and as soon asshe thought about laying, she marked a particular barn for the purpose and would not begin hercareer until she had been admitted. She laid from four to six eggs per day from the outset andhundreds of people came to see her. The hen, unfortunately is in America, where wonderfulthings are apt to happen but all the evidence supports the story. If it is true, the bird’s future willprobably resemble the future of two recent freak layers in this country. She will suddenly stoplaying and never produce another egg during her life.

Helping behind the scenes at the Age Concern coffee morning are Sadie Bell, Elaine Anderson and Margaret Pool

MAGICAL MOVING PICTUREScontd.……….NOT only that but she was accompanied by ‘Josie’ Allison, composer for themusic for ‘A Wee Bit Toon”and perhaps one ofLangholm’s finest violinists.Josie had the habit, like manymen his age group inLangholm, of chewing tobacco as opposed to smok-ing tobacco. Chewing tobacco was as hardas toffee and a sliver was cutand placed in the mouth andstimulated the saliva whichmixed with tobacco into a mix-ture which could not be swal-lowed but had to be spat out.Hence the basins on the floorand the decks of ships known as‘spitoons’. In spitting it out iswas not like a hacking coughmixed with mucous but a fineliquid rather that the colour oftea and this was squirtedthrough the pursed lips in a finejet under considerable air pressure from the lungs.

Some devotees were so accu-rate that on a clear day theycould hit a fly. Unfortunately for‘Josie’ the ‘spittoon’ was situ-ated on the floor behind Bellaand, always the gentleman Josiedidn’t want to splash Bellaswhite evening gown so he aimedto the left of the spittoon withthe result that come the intervaland all wee children in the frontseats made a dash for the onlytoilet, the floor behind Bella waslike a skating pond and we allfinished up in a heap in the cor-

ner.

Such was the situation whenmy mother gave Pinder a pennyto take me to Milligan’s Hall tothe silent pictures as I was a bitslow at reading and didn’t understand some of the words.

True to his word, Pinder gotme ensconced three rows fromthe front and in the centre of thescreen. He began reading everycaption even although I couldread many of them. When a bigwork came on the screen and Ididn’t understand it Pinderwould try to explain in great detail although I began to doubtif he knew what it meant. Olderpeople in the more expensiveseats behind us began to“shussh! Shussssh!” A mucholder boy in the row in frontturned around and told Pinder toshut up. Pinder smashed him onthe left ear. I remember dis-tinctly that it was on the left ear,and all hell broke loose. Chairs were flying in the frontthree rows as Pinder and this bigboy, I can’t remember his name,rolled about on the floor. It

wouldn’t have been as bad hadit been a battle scene on thescreen – ‘charge of the LightBrigade’ or something like thatwith Bella and Josie givingthem Wagner’s “ride of theValkyries” but no, it was a lovescene with both of them deepinto “Loves Old Sweet Song”and as true professionals theycontinued. Thomas Milliganfought his way into the middleof the fracas and dragged Pinderout. As I was with Pinder Igrabbed his hand and we wereboth thrown out together. WhenI got home long before the endof the performance my mother

asked what was wrong. I daren’ttell her we had been thrown outso I said I had been sick so shegave me a spoonful of “syrup offigs” and put me to bed. However, Thomas Milliganwas OK and when Pinder tookme along the following Satur-day he said that if we promisedto keep quiet, he would allow usin once more and do you know– my reading improved afterthat. But the greatest film I sawin that era – no, the only film insound, colour, 3D or Panasonicthat ever influenced my life wasthe following New Year’s Dayof the Pinder incident.

Tom MixAt the Temperance Hotel theywere showing a Tom Mix cow-boy film. They had for the firsttime, a huge coloured posterposted on to a cement slab at thetop of the arch leading to thehall opposite the Town Clock,showing Tom Mix reared up ona white horse waving a whiteStetson. Milligan’s Hall wasshowing a film called the “TheFlag Lieutenant”, It was thestory of the battle of Jutland andthe flag lieutenant was the hero.I would have gone for Tom Mixbut Pinder decided we go to the“Flag Lieutenant because notonly would Bella and Josie beplaying “Hearts of Oak” and“Land of Hope and Glory” etc.but Paul Scott who claimed tohave his toes frozen off in theFirst World War while standingin the trenches, would be hittingthe big drum of the LangholmTown Band when the 16” gunswere firing for special effects. Iwas spellbound as the two greatfleets locked in mortal combatand the 16” guns opened upwith Bella really thumping thepiano and Josie on his feet withthe excitement and the old fid-dle screeching, Big Paul Scotton the big drum, unfairly per-haps gave it everything whenthe home fleet fired but wasslightly quieter with the Ger-man’s 16” salvos.

In the excitement all wee boysbegan to cheer and Thomas Milligan threw nobody out. Ivowed there and then that some-day I would join the RoyalNavy.

Langholm with the Lid OffWe continue our serialisation of Wattie Bell’s book.

50 years: Another Langholm Factory to open branch in LockerbieIt has been officially announced that the Langholm Dyeing and Finishing Company is to open anew £10,000 winding department in Lockerbie because of the shortage of women workers inLangholm. Building and machine installation is nearing completion and the plant is expected toopen in a few weeks’ time. The new department will provide work for 12 women initially and thefirm will also establish a mill shop at the new premises similar to the one already open inLangholm.

The Central Cinema in the Eskdale Temperance Hotel

Bella Fletcher at the piano.From a drawing by David Murray

www.eladvertiser.co.uk Eskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser Thursday April 9, 2020 13

AT THE end of February Avril andI fulfilled lifelong ambitions to visitthe ‘Rose red city half as old as time’- Petra.We had earlier joined the Fred Olsen

cruise ship Boudicca in Dubai as it setoff to complete its round-the-worldvoyage, finishing in Dover mid-March.After visiting ports in Oman and seeingthe exciting Arab cities of Kasab andMuscat, we braved the pirates off theHorn of Africa and, finally, sailed upthe Gulf of Aqaba to moor in the same-named port from where we would visitthe famous city.Petra is a two-hour journey from

Aqaba, high in the mountains and, onthe day of our visit, extremely cold.We hired a horse carriage to take us

from the entrance to the Treasury. Thiswas an adventure in itself. The ridewas downhill, on a very rough path,and the driver made no concessions.The carriage went at a good lick, whichwas okay until we entered the narrowdefile called the Siq, just wide enoughfor the carriage to pass through.The carriage belted along, scattering

walking tourists in all directions and,as we approached the destination, thehorse, who clearly knew the route likethe back of his hoof, broke into acanter. We were both very relievedwhen we suddenly exited the Siq andthere was the Treasury in front of us.The Treasury, or Al-Khazneh in

Arabic, is what you’ve all seen in pic-tures or in films like Indiana Jonesand the Last Crusade. It’s an amazingsight, much better in reality than inpictures. The colour is really more golden

brown. John Burgon, who wrote thefamous words, had not visited Petra atthe time, although he did later. It wasnot a treasury but a royal tomb andthere’s no elixir of life in its portals.

Petra was built by the Nabataeans,at about the time of Christ. Besidesthe Treasury, there are lots of otherroyal tombs with carved entrances anda huge amphitheatre. Among all thesights there are shops and cafes andhoards of itinerant souvenir sellers. We bought a lovely stone cup for

$15, bartered down from $60. Thereare also camels and donkeys for hire.We couldn’t resist the camels, as youcan see in the photo, taken right infront of the Treasury. Most of thetraders were Bedouins who used tolive in the many caves on the site butnow live in the city of Wadi Musa,which has grown up outside Petra.The journey back by carriage was

much more sedate as uphill; we werevery pleased to take it as it is a longtrek back to the entrance where wehad a most welcome lunch.After Aqaba, we sailed through the

Suez Canal, visited Jerusalem andstopped off in Cyprus, Malta andAthens, before coronavirus causedSpain to close its ports to us and weheaded home to Dover. Definitely the‘holiday of a lifetime’, one which willlive in our memories.

Lovely view of Langholm Parish Kirk and the Kirk Brig taken by Mairi Telford JammehCamera:Samsung S9+

The E&L Gallery

Travel Review : Petra, Jordan

Reviewers:Tony Parker &Avril Bannatyne

Avril and Tony in the ‘‘Rose red city half as old as time’’

RAVE REVIEWS...restaurants...film...theatre...music...activities...travel...

www.eladvertiser.co.ukEskdale & Liddesdale Advertiser14 Thursday April 9, 2020

My word of the day calendartells me today’s work is‘bosky’ – meaning covered

by trees or shrubs; wooded. I thinkof the little bench and private spotI’ve discovered out the back ofArthuret Church in Longtown, wherethe buzzards circle lazily until theyget mobbed by crows. The hillslopes down quickly, but the grassis studded by gnarled trees andtough bushes.

I have been using this calendaras writing prompts, and I enjoyfinding ways to include words like“flibbertigibbet” (previously, I hadthought this was a word my dadhad made up to tease me with) or“collywobbles” into a short, inspiredpiece of fiction. The etymology ofwords is fascinating, but more andmore I have been thinking aboutthe nature words that crop up, andhow much more I enjoy includingthem in my descriptions of setting.

Perhaps because of my back-ground in biology I enjoy thiscrossover between writing and nature all the more. My creativewriting, more often than not, falls

into the fantasy genre, where naturecan be made fantastical, threaten-ing, holy, or anything else whichsuits the narrative. Indeed, in anypiece of writing it can set the tone,provide atmosphere, or becomean obstacle, but fantasy allows forartistic licence – suddenly you canbe faced with a willow tree whichcomes alive and thumps anyonewho comes close, like in HarryPotter, or a deep mine in whichdark things live, such as Lord ofthe Rings.

BackdropMy favourite use of nature within

writing is as an innocuous backdrop:a moment of fascination for thereader to portray how vastly differenttheir new setting is from the familiar.A creature of ice that can dampenmagical powers (useful as a plotdevice); a glossy bird which canvanish in the dark; a forest flowerthat wilts as it is touched.

Nature in the real world is nothingshort of amazing, of course. I thinkthat experimenting with it in writingonly proves this, as quick research

shows how dolphins and whalesevolved to echolocate, or how coralis two species in one (and an ani-mal, not a plant), or how a groupof aspen trees can be consideredone single organism because oftheir extensive root system.

How amazing the world aroundus is! Each part of the natural worldis fascinating in its complexity,something that is missed when we

briefly cast our eyes over it, barelynoticing what is at our feet. Butpay attention and there is a plethoraof inspiration – for writing, for art,for simple curiosity.

And tomorrow, I’ll wait to seewhat my next word of the day is,and hope it leads me to discovermore about the fascinating depthof nature.

______________________

So many worlds just waiting tobe discovered – through wordsE&L Life columnist Carys Mainprize

reflects on the infinite power of words…

"But words are things, and a small drop of ink,

Falling like dew, upon a thought,produces

That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think."

George Gordon, Lord Byron

by Carys Mainprize

E&L LifeFeature

An

Thursday April 9, 2020 15

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HorseracingBRIAN Hughes, who rides regularly for JamesEwart Racing of Langholm, has been crownedchampion jump jockey for the first time inhis career.

Hughes, 34, who is based in North Yorkshire,also won the Northern championship.

His tussle for the prize with Richard Johnsonduring the unfinished 2019/20 season endedwhen the British Horseracing Authority announcedthe sport’s worst-kept secret on Monday.

Hughes rode 141 winners over the course ofthe season to beat defending champion Johnson,who finished 19 adrift with 122 winners.

Hughes told the Racing Post: "It has alwaysbeen a dream of mine to become championjockey so to have finally achieved it is fantastic.

“It's obviously a little disappointing that wehaven't been able to see out the season.

“We were all looking forward to doing so andthere were some big race days to look forwardto but circumstances are out of our hands andracing's no different.

"I've had another great season with 141 winnersand I cannot thank all the trainers, owners, stablestaff and my family who have continued tosupport me.

“Like everyone else, I can't wait to get backout there riding and will be doing everything Ican to keep hold of the title next season."

James Ewart’s partnership with Hughes goesback more than a decade when they were intro-duced by Irish bloodstock agent Bobby O’Ryan.

Hughes had just come over from Ireland as aconditional jockey – he won that championshipin 2008 – and O’Ryan encouraged Ewart to useHughes.

Ewart said: “When he won the conditionalchampionship, he rode most of our winners thatyear, too.

“He has ridden all our winners this year, exceptone. He is the best in the north by a long, longway.

“If he’s riding your horse, you know you’ll getthe best possible result and I try to give him asmuch support as possible.

“There are lots of things I like about Brian.

What I admire most is his consistency.“All of us have our good and bad days and

most of us make plenty of mistakes.“Brian is not like that and that’s why he’s

champion jockey and why he’s so good. Hedoesn’t make mistakes.

“He rides with a level of finesse which hasbeen compared to Paul Carberry. He virtuallynever makes mistakes in races. He’s always inthe right place at the right time.”

Jonathan Garratt, managing director of KelsoRaces Ltd, said: “Brian’s work ethic is secondto none and he really deserves this success.

“Although the season was unfortunately cur-tailed, he was at Kelso right up to the end,scoring aboard Proper Ticket for Fergal O’Brienat the meeting we staged behind closed doors onMarch 16.

“He was also successful in Kelso’s most pres-tigious race of the season, the Grade 2 WilliamHill Premier Novices Hurdle, riding ClondawCaitlin for Ruth Jefferson.“He’s ridden winners at so many courses for somany different trainers. It’s great for everyoneinvolved in jump racing in northern Britain.”

RugbyThe SRU has declared the currentrugby season null and void with nopromotion or relegation from anyof the premier, national or regionalleagues.

Langholm RFC is disappointed aboutthe decision but is already looking for-ward to next season’s challenge of securing promotion from East League2 to 1.

Catriona Bell, club secretary, said:“After Scottish Rugby’s decision todeclare the 2019-20 domestic rugbyseason null and void, the club is dis-appointed but accepts the decision,given the current climate, which putsthings into perspective.”

After a heavy defeat away to NorthBerwick in the opening game of theseason, the squad regrouped and turnedthings around.

It won 10 and drew one match out ofthe 15 games played, including an unbeaten run at home.

GuaranteeAfter the Christmas break, the weather

put paid to a number of fixtures andthe return fixture away to Leith wouldbe a top-of-the-table clash to guaranteepromotion for one side.

While it is frustrating for both teamsthat the fixture, twice rescheduled pre-viously, could not be fulfilled, it is asimilar story in Scotland and the widerrugby world.

A league restructure at the end of the

2018/19 season when only one teamwas promoted, with Langholm finishingsecond, was disheartening.

But the results show the coach andplayers took this in their stride andwere out to prove themselves.

Catriona added: “The challenge isnow on to come back next season andgo one better and secure promotion toEast 1.

Anniversary“It will be tough; there is no doubt

about that but there is a great atmo-sphere among the players and in theclub generally at the moment and wehope we can take this forward intonext season as the club approaches its150th anniversary.”

Off the pitch the club has been recog-

nised for the hard work of its volunteers,successful youth programmes and therecently-introduced veterans’ touchrugby.

It was awarded the Tennent’s com-munity club of the season for the EastRegion. This follows the nominationfor local club of the year at the DailyRecord Scottish sports awards.

Catriona said: “It is unsatisfying thatthe rugby season has been curtailedbut the club would like to take the opportunity to congratulate the playerson a successful season on the pitchand thank the coaches, backroom staff,committee, volunteers, members andsupporters for their support over theseason.”

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Hughes is crownedchampion jump jockey

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Sports NewsThursday April 9, 2020

Sponsored by KELSO RACES

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AthleticsCANCELLATION of this year’s Olympic andParalympic Games, due to be held in Tokyo,has come as a big blow to thousands of athletes who have been in training but theyhave welcomed the news that they will beheld in 2021.

The philosophical viewpoint of Paralympiansprinter Libby Clegg was simply: “Same goals,new dates … Tokyo 2021.”

Libby, who has family in Langholm and New-castleton, resumed training after having her baby,Edward, a year ago, with the Paralympics as hermain target.

MedalsShe has already won silver and gold medals at

Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio 2016 in100m and 200m races and is now aiming for herfourth games.

Libby is registered blind and her appearancein Dancing On Ice earlier this year was muchcelebrated and she made the final with two othercouples.

The Tokyo Olympic Games will now start onJuly 23, 2021 and run to August 8.

The Paralympic Games, originally due to starton August 24, 2020, will now take place betweenAugust 24 and September 5, 2021.

Andrew Parsons, International ParalympicCommittee president, said: "When the ParalympicGames do take place in Tokyo next year, theywill be an extra-special display of humanityuniting as one, a global celebration of human re-silience and a sensational showcase of sport.

"With the games 512 days away, the priorityfor all those involved in the Paralympic movementmust be to focus on staying safe with theirfriends and family during this unprecedentedand difficult time."

The decision to postpone both events was takento protect the health of the athletes and everyoneinvolved, and to support the containment of theCOVID-19 virus.

The new dates also took into consideration therest of the global sports calendar.

The World Athletics Championships, originallyset to take place in Oregon, USA, betweenAugust 6 and August 15, 2021, will be postponeduntil 2022.

If that is moved back exactly a year, it wouldclash with the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham which is set to take place betweenJuly 27 and August 7.

Brian Hughes wins on Clondaw Caitlin at Kelso

Rugby season declared null and void

Libby Clegg: “Same goals, new dates . . .Tokyo 2021”

Libby switchesfocus to 2021