THEY haven’t always seen eye to eye.

A lack of consultation over some of the big issues affecting the town has been the source of many a complaint over the years.

And now, despite asking for the heating to be turned on at their montly meetings in the Burgh Chambers, Scottish Borders Council has once again given community councillors in Galashiels the cold shoulder.

One member of the public walked out of the latest meeting last Wednesday night and the community council revealed it could be forced to find an alternative venue unless the council acts.

Community councillor Murray Dickson said: “We can’t ask members of the public to come and sit in here when I’m actually cold - this is ridiculous.

“I’m sure that lady left because it was too cold.” Secretary Tracey Alder, who was forced to sit with her jacket on during the two hour meeting in an effort to keep warm, agreed. She added: “I’m freezing to the point of getting a headache.” Councillor Bill White, who represents Galashiels on Scottish Borders Council, revealed he would investigate.

Scottish Borders Council issued an apology this week.

A spokesperson for the local authority said: “I spoke to the Property Manager who apologies if there has been any misunderstanding. There is no problem with having the heating on - all the Community Council have to do is let him know what they need in terms of the dates and times of their meetings.

“I’ve emailed Bill White along those lines so hopefully the two of them can speak to make sure it doesn’t happen again.”