SCOTTISH Borders Council convener David Parker has sent two messages of support to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.

“On behalf of the communities of the Borders, I have extended our deepest sympathies over the tragic loss of life in the terror attack at London Bridge/Borough Market,” said Councillor Parker ahead of this week’s council meeting at Newtown.

“I have also expressed our sympathy and solidarity with Londoners in relation to the Grenfell Tower fire disaster and the terror attack near the Mosque in Finsbury Park. I have assured the Mayor that he and his city are in our thoughts and prayers and that we stand shoulder to shoulder with them at this difficult time.”

In his role as the council’s civic head, Cllr Parker said that he had also sent a message of support to Borders rugby legend Doddie Weir after the 46-year-old father of three revealed he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

“Doddie is an inspirational character: a significant public figure who has done a huge amount of voluntary work in our region,” said Mr Parker.

“I have told Doddie he is in our thoughts at this very difficult time for him and his family.”