THREE new councillors were welcomed to Galashiels Community Council on Wednesday, May 10.

Euan Jardine (Con), Harry Scott (Ind) and Andy Anderson (SNP), joined returning member Sandy Aitchison (Ind) at the table.

Chairwoman Judith Cleghorn said: “I would like to take the opportunity to welcome our new councillors to the table. We hope you all have a happy time here, but I’m sure this meeting will be the quietest time you will ever have, so enjoy tonight.”

During the meeting, Councillor Aitchison paid tribute to former councillors Bill White (Ind) and John Mitchell (SNP).

He told the meeting: “I have worked closely with Bill White over the past five years. He was a very energetic councillor and did a lot for the area.

“John Mitchell also served the community for a very long period of time. I spoke to him the other day and he is bearing up well, despite the disappointment [of not being re-elected].

“But I am looking forward to get going again. It is really positive to see so many sat around the table.”

All three new councillors said they were honoured to be elected and are looking forward to serving the community of Galashiels.

Councillor Jardine said: “I am very much looking forward to the next few years and will do my best for the area.”

Councillor Scott added: “Thank you to everyone who voted. It is nice to see so many people here tonight. I am also looking forward to starting.”

And Councillor Anderson said: “I am delighted to have been selected to represent Galashiels. Sandy has helped us with his experience and we now have a lot of work to do. We hope we can be as good as the previous councillors.”

Meanwhile, resident Pauline Ward made her return to the Burgh Chambers table as a community councillor and Drew Tulley congratulated former member Kevin Drum on being elected as councillor for the Leaderdale and Melrose ward.