THERE will be no criminal proceedings arising following the deaths of three people at the Jim Clark Rally in the Borders more than two years ago, it was confirmed yesterday.

It was also announced there will be a first ever joint fatal accident inquiry investigating the circumstances behind the deaths at two car rallies in Scotland.

New legislation which came into force on December 1 has given the Crown Office powers to combine the incidents at the Snowman Rally in the Highlands in February 2013 and also the Jim Clark rally in May 2014 despite being held in different parts of the country.

Spectator Joy Robson was killed following an accident at the Snowman Rally while John Stern, Elizabeth Allan and Iain Provan.

In a letter to the Jim Clark Rally organisers, Lord Advocate James Wolffe said that as the events raised similar questions about safety at rally events it was appropriate they should be explored together.

He said:"The Crown is liaising with the Sheriff Principal to identify an appropriate location and dates for the Fatal Accident Inquiry to take place

"There will be no criminal proceedings in relation to either event though this may be reconsidered should additional evidence come to light."

Borders MSP John Lamont said that while the legal process had to be followed he added that Scottish Borders Council, the police and the Crown Office must work with organisers to ensure the Jim Clark Rally takes place as soon as possible.

He said: “While it is important that the legal process is followed, this is really disappointing news for the Jim Clark Rally. The event contributes greatly to the Borders economy and its loss the last few years has impacted on local businesses.

 “I hope the Fatal Accident Inquiry can be carried out as quickly as possible and that Scottish Borders Council, the police and the Crown Office will do all they can to facilitate the holding of the Rally as soon as possible. The Snowman Rally, which will also be considered by the FAI, has been allowed to continue and I hope the same flexibility can be applied to the Borders."

No date has yet been given for the fatal accident inquiry or any location confirmed.

But as the matter has been referred to the Sheriff Principal of the Lothian and Borders, it is likely to be held at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.