TWO mystery sporting celebrities will open the new Galashiels play park this Saturday.

The pair, who are both local to the town, will also help launch Party in the Park to celebrate the opening of the new £290,000 facility in the Public Park.

The event is free for all to attend - but donations are encouraged for local charities Rowan Boland Memorial Trust and Radio Borders Cash for Kids.

Attractions during Saturday's celebrations include big bouncy inflatable and assault course with various sporting activities provided by Live Borders, traditional Punch and Judy show, balloon art and children’s magic.

There will also be face painting and performing clowns Oli, Gus and Friend.

A series of vintage cars will be on display, while children can jump on board a fire engine and police car.

And live music will be provided from the Riddell Fiddles, Galashiels Ex-Servicemen’s Pipe Band and the Town Band.

Galashiels Rotary Club, Borders Book Festival and Borders Buses will be in attendance, with information also available on the Council’s Responsible Dog Ownership Strategy and Green Dog Walker scheme.

And free fruit will be on offer for the family by Tesco and NHS Borders on the day, alongside catering facilities.

The party is being organised by Scottish Borders Council in partnership with Galashiels Community Council.

Councillor David Parker, Scottish Borders Council’s Convener, told us “We hope as many people as possible come along to Party in the Park to celebrate the opening of one of the best new play areas in the south of Scotland.

“The finishing touches are being made to the play park to make sure it is ready for children to enjoy, while we have a significant number of attractions available on Saturday.

“While it is a free event we are hoping those attending can help us through donations raise thousands of pounds for two worthwhile local charities - the Rowan Boland Memorial Trust and Radio Borders Cash for Kids.”

Party in the Park runs from 11am to 3pm, with the official opening of the play park expected to take place around 11.15am.

Any further updates will be posted at SBC’s Party in the Park Facebook events page.