NICOLA Sturgeon was in Selkirk today to open the new Spark Energy Academy, which will create 69 jobs.

The company, which is an independent energy supplier to the tenant and social housing sectors, will now be one of the highest private sector employers in the Borders.

The First Minister opened the new academy at its in-house training centre this morning, in the former Ettrick Riverside Tweed mill.

Watch Nicola Sturgeon's speech at Spark Energy:

Spark Energy CEO Chris Gauld said: "Our investment in the Academy means that those joining the company, including the 69 jobs announced today, will receive their induction and training in a purpose-built facility that reflects our ambition, our culture, values and the professional standards we set.

"We're committed to helping our team develop their careers, and many employees who started with us in front office or back office jobs have gone on to take on more specialist senior positions through our internal jobs market which is really rewarding."

The majority of Spark's staff live within 10 miles of Selkirk and this announcement aims to provide jobs to local people.

Don't miss Wednesday's Border Telegraph for a full and frank interview with the First Minister on the new Spark Academy.