ORGANISERS of an eye-catching mural in Galashiels didn't obtain planning permission.

And they have now have to wait to see if a retrospective application will be accepted by the local authority.

The colourful Flying Scotsman mural at Douglas Bridge features around 500 portraits of local people.

And it was unveiled by Lord Steel of Aikwood amid celebrations during the recent Creative Coathanger arts festival.

Although an agreement was reached with the owners of the Douglas Bridge restaurant for the mural to be permanently installed, relevant planning permission wasn't in place for the artwork.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “A retrospective planning application will need to be submitted for the mural, if it is intended to be retained permanently.”

The mural was commissioned by community group Energise Galashiels as part of their plans to revitalise the town centre.

Artist Chris Rutterford spent several months painting the mural at his studio in Edinburgh.

He told us: "It would be a massive own goal if this had to come down.

"The mural provides a welcome for people coming to Galashiels and it sets a new narrative for the town centre.

"As far I was aware we were good to go.

"I know that verbal permission had been given."

A third section of the colourful mural, featuring even more recognisable faces from the Galashiels area, is due to be unveiled next spring.

Chris added: "There are two sections up just now with a third section still to be completed.

"The reaction to the mural has been positive so I just hope we can get this sorted out."

A retrospective planning application was submitted this week by agents Cameron Facilities.

Nobody from Energise Galashiels was available for comment ahead of going to press.