FORMER Scottish Borders Council leader Drew Tulley has praised the local authority’s parks department for ensuring Galashiels looked blooming beautiful ahead of judging in a national floral competition.

He picked out Bank Street Gardens, Old Gala House and the entrances to the town for particular praise at this month’s meeting of the community council ahead of a visit from judges in the Keep Scotland Beautiful competition. Members heard local housing associations, SBHA and Eildon, were also quick to act to spruce up key areas following complaints about grass cutting.

Mr Tulley said: “Many areas of the town look stunning and our parks department deserve our thanks. We are in strained times but they do an excellent job on our behalf.” But Galashiels Community Council heard the former council leader was himself part of a group of volunteers who gave up their time to maintain flower beds and keep the town tidy.

The judges also visited Langlee Recycling Centre and Community Orchard, the Mossilee Allotments and a number of gardens which featured in last year’s local competition.

Community councillor Judith Cleghorn said: “We must thank the volunteers, including Johnny Gray, who have done an enormous amount of work.” Gala Waterways Group was also praised for its work in tidying up the mill lade. And it has emerged that a feasibility study could still be carried out to decide whether to allow water to run through it once again.

The next tidy up of the mill lade is on Saturday, September 6. Willing volunteers are invited to meet at the car park next to ProStrakan at 10am.

Mr Tulley added: “It would be nice if some of the local businesses recognised the work that Gala Waterways Group are doing and could sponsor their new signs or equipment.”