MELROSE Primary School have been presented with a new award in memory of a dog who helped to promote road safety.

Springer spaniel Jon accompanied owner Sheena Chappell to provide road safety messages to hundreds of school pupils across the Borders, after the dog lost his leg in a road accident.

Jon sadly passed away last year, which led to ex-police officer Sheena donating the Jon Chappell Memorial Shield to Scottish Borders Council to present to the most original road safety campaign by a local school.

Melrose Primary’s junior road safety officers Elliot Etherington and Kai Waddell won the inaugural competition after the primary seven pair produced a video for parents and carers involving Police Scotland and the local community.

The video explained issues around parents and carers parking on zig-zag lines and near to junctions on Huntly Road, and encouraged them to use the designated drop off and pick up points at the health centre car park, Melrose Rugby Club car park or St Mary’s Road.

Sheena said: “Jon was such a special dog and the kids loved him. He was a visual reminder of the dangers of roads and helped the children to understand the road safety message.

“I am delighted to present the first Jon Chappell Memorial Shield to Melrose Primary School.”

Melrose depute headteacher Jamie Wallace said: “As a school, we are very proud of our junior road safety officers and it is fantastic to see them leading the way in the community.”

Councillor Gordon Edgar, SBC’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, said: “Sheena and Jon played a vital role in educating our young people in road safety and this new award will mean their legacy continues for future generations.

“We will continue to encourage parents and carers to walk, cycle, scooter or park and stride to school with their children where possible.”