THE new warden to patrol St Mary's Loch hopes the beauty spot will earn a little respect this summer.

For years wild campers and partying groups have vandalised areas around the loch as well starting fires, leaving litter and causing annoyance with rowdy behaviour.

In response a community initiative was launched on Friday with Chris Amy being employed as the region's first warden.

Mr Amy, who has previously worked in countryside management, told us: "I am delighted to have been awarded the contract and hope that the service will help alleviate some of the challenges that some wild campers pose.

"I will be working very closely with local residents and landowners as well as Police Scotland to ensure that those who visit the area respect the needs of others and respect the environment while they are here."

The new warden service, which is funded by Scottish Borders Council, Wemyss and March Estate and Ettrick & Yarrow Community Council through funding from Greencoat Wind UK plc, was officially launched during a ceremony at Cappercleuch Hall.

MSP Michelle Ballantyne was joined by representatives from Scottish Borders Council, Police Scotland and the local community council at the launch.

Gordon Harrison, chair of Ettrick and Yarrow Community Council, said: "The warden service will operate along the shores of St Mary's Loch, the Loch of the Lowes, Megget Reservoir and the Green, opposite the Glen Café.

"The warden will mainly work on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the spring and summer but his hours can be used flexibly during school and public holidays."

Mr Amy will continue to patrol the area until September 30.

And if the scheme is successful in wiping out anti-social behaviour, it is hoped it will be repeated in future years.

Councillor Gordon Edgar added: "The majority of visitors do behave responsibly while they are here, but there have been some who have left litter behind, destroyed and burned local trees and become noisy and aggressive.

"Scottish Borders Council has contributed funding to the project to help the local community feel safer and so that this unique tourism destination is looked after.

"We will also be helping to uplift litter in the area."

The warden service will be managed locally by local community councillors Isabel Brown and Clive Whittingham, who will monitor its effectiveness as well as providing a contact point for local residents.

Community police officer Conal McEwan has welcomed the appointment of Mr Amy.

He said: "We look forward to developing a close working relationship with Mr Amy.

"Chris will be able to monitor the situation on the ground and contact Police Scotland if there are any problems with people causing trouble or breaking the law."