Published: Tuesday, 17th November, 2009 3:13pm

Announcement on Galashiels Provost postponed until New Year

by Ally McGilvray

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A DECISION on whether to appoint a Provost of Galashiels - and who that should be - will be made in the New Year.

Galashiels and Langlee Community Council have announced plans to to discuss whether to revive the old role at its meeting in January.

Chairman Bill White revealed he had only received two letters following a two-month public consultation which ended last month.

One from the Old Gala Club expressed support. But it is understood another, from the Braw Lads' Gathering, had reservations.

The old chain of office has not been seen in public since the old town council was abolished in 1975. William Pate was the last to hold the position. He died aged 83 in September 1980.

Hawick, Selkirk and Melrose already have Provosts who act as a ceremonial figurehead for their respective towns. Each has connections to their town's Common Ridings and festivals.

However, question marks remain over what, if any, involvement a Provost - expected to be the chairman of the community council - would have in the Braw Lads' Gathering in Galashiels.

It is understood the Gathering has turned down an invitation to change the title of their President to Provost on at least two occasions.

The community council mooted the idea because it claimed the town lacked a ceremonial figurehead to represent Galashiels at important events, including the recent funeral of the Duke of Buccleuch, or when the Queen visits the Borders.

However, the council has insisted it will only revive the Provost's role if there is enough public support.