Published: Monday, 26th July, 2010 1:10pm

Borders headteacher in line for call-up to war zone

A HEADTEACHER from the Borders is in the firing line this week, it has emerged.

The Border Telegraph understands Gary Scott, who works at the primary school in Tweedbank, has been accepted into the chaplaincy branch of the British Army.

And now he could be set to swap his school uniform for desert combats to join the fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan.

It is understood the head teacher has told his employers at Scottish Borders Council that he could be absent for up to a year.

At their meeting in Tweedbank last week, community councillors heard Mr Scott had been called up for military service and a search had been launched for a replacement.

However, the Border Telegraph understands that he is still undergoing training.

Last month, a ceremony was held to recognise employers in the region who allowed their staff time off work to fight in war zones around the world.

A spokeswoman for Scottish Borders Council said: "It is not unusual." But she added: "He (Mr Scott) could be the first head teacher in the Borders to take part in such a mission."

Meanwhile, community councillors heard plans to ease overcrowding at the primary school in Tweedbank were continuing this month.

The 209-pupil school is scheduled for a £1.5million refurbishment to cope with an increasing roll - including a new extension.

Last year, the council came under fire after the plans were delayed.