TOURISM businesses in towns like Kelso and Jedburgh must not miss out on the economic benefits of the Borders Railway.

That’s the view of Tom Burnham, chairman of the Scottish Borders Tourism Partnership.

“The talk among our members, especially those who operate some distance from the line and its stations, is all about the railway and how they can cash in,” said Mr Burnham who also heads the Scottish Borders Visitors Network, representing over 50 accommodation providers.

“The frequency of the trains to and from Edinburgh, especially the late night service from the capital, could and should have a positive impact, but we need things to happen,” he told the Border Telegraph.

“For example if there was a regular bus or minibus link from the Tweedbank terminus to, say Kelso and Jedburgh, then operators in these towns can market their businesses accordingly.

“A bed and breakfast business could then think about offering packages which could include trips to see shows in Edinburgh, especially during the Festival.” Mr Burnham, who represents the tourism sector of the Scottish Borders Business Forum, wants a commitment from the train operators and Scottish Borders Council that they will consider financing such extra services in conjunction with interested tourism businesses.

“The forum is due to meet railway and council representatives in January and we really need to address how we can spread the benefits of the railway as far as possible across our region,” he told the Border Telegraph.