THE former First Minister hopes to raise a smile in Galashiels this month.

Alex Salmond...Unleashed, which sold out 19 back-to-back shows at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival, will be performed for the final time this year in the Borders.

The event will take place at 7.30pm on Friday, November 24, in the Volunteer Hall.

Mr Salmond said: “I am delighted to be bringing the show to Gala.

“The touring show is twice the length of the Fringe performance and the whole Unleashed gang is looking forward to the evening.

“Of course, the show is about politics but the emphasis is on the lighter side with plenty of comedy, chat and music. It is a variety show that keeps the audience guessing as to what will come next.

“My sister, Gail, who stays in Hawick, tells me that the Volunteer Hall is a lovely traditional venue and will provide plenty of opportunity for audience participation.”

Each show features a mystery special guest and the Edinburgh shows featured such film stars as Brian Cox and Martin Compston as well as politicians like David Davies and Commons Speaker, John Bercow.

Definitely on their way to Gala will be legendary singer, Sheena Wellington as well as Alex’s house band The Carloways. However, Mr Salmond is tight-lipped about the special guest star.

He said: “I like the special guest to be known only when he or she is introduced onto the stage. That formula adds greatly to the fun and sense of excitement.”

It is likely that Mr Salmond’s version of the much loved Rikki Fulton character, the Rev. Jolly will put in an appearance. He added: “The Very Reverend Former First Minister brought the house down in Aberdeen and Alloa and is looking forward to cheering up the Borders.”

In addition to selling out 23 shows so far, Alex Salmond Unleashed has raised over £27,000 for charities. Tickets can be bought at: www.alexsalmond.scot/unleashedtour