THERE was plenty to ride home about at the weekend at the grand opening of the new Cardrona Pump Track.

Around 80 people gathered on Saturday afternoon to watch local MSP Michelle Ballantyne cut the ribbon and declare the pump track officially open to riders.

The celebratory event is a culmination of a variety of fundraising work by the local community.

A total of £4,500 was raised in a crowdfunding campaign by the riding community in the village.

And, following an application by the Cardrona Village Association, a £10,000 grant was awarded by the National Lottery.

A delighted Paul Milne from Cardrona Pump Track said: “The track has been a massive success and is hugely popular with riders of all ages and abilities.

“It has been especially popular with the younger generation, from children on balance bikes through to seasoned professionals benefitting from the facility.

“We have seen a huge number of younger users over the past few weeks which is extremely positive for the local cycling community, also great to see so many young kids outside, active and enjoying the outdoors.

“The track was designed to allow riders to develop and learn skills – something the Tweed Valley has needed for a long time as there is currently no other modern facility locally that offers this.

“Special thanks to the Cardrona Village Association, local businesses and everyone else that supported our crowdfunding campaign.”