FOLLOWING the success of its previous event, Scottish Borders Business Forum is holding a second meeting on the Borders Railway and the opportunities for local businesses, titled “What do Borders businesses need to profit from the railway?” The meeting, to take place at Scottish Borders Council Headquarters on Friday, March 6, has been scheduled to start at 11am to enable more tourism businesses to attend, particularly those involved with visitor accommodation. However, the event is open to all Scottish Borders businesses.

Guest speakers will again include Michael Moore MP, Councillor Stuart Bell, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development, and a representative of Abellio, the company which will operate the Borders Railway franchise from September.

Also speaking at the meeting will be Richard Landale, Managing Director of Kelso Races. He will be discussing the plans being developed by the company to make the most of the opportunities that the Borders Railway provides. Following the presentations there will be a question and answer session.

Jack Clark, chairman of Scottish Borders Business Forum, said: “Our last Borders Railway meeting was oversubscribed so we immediately set about planning another event. This second meeting ensures that as many businesses as possible in the Scottish Borders have the opportunity to find out information about the railway and can start to think about what they can do to capitalise on this unique opportunity.

“We have moved this meeting to later in the morning to try and attract more tourism-related businesses, as they in particular have a huge amount to gain from the Borders Railway. However, the meeting is open to all businesses and I would encourage those interested to sign up early to ensure that they can attend what we hope will be another hugely popular event.” Anyone wishing to attend the meeting should contact Linda Richardson on lrichardson@scotborders.gov.uk or call 01835 825040.