A POPULAR path in Melrose could be named after one of the town’s famous benefactors if councillors take a gamble that they won’t receive any complaints.

The Community Council was asked for its suggestion for names for the lane which runs alongside West End House, just off the town’s High Street.

Provost William Windram suggested William Hill Way in tribute to a philanthropist who died 40 years ago. The late businessman donated his estate to good causes and sporting clubs in the town following his death in 1974. And the William Hill Trust still hands out donations to Melrose organisations today.

However, members heard that attempts to name a street in the housing development at Trimontium Heights after William Hill nine years ago proved to be a loser with local residents who feared it would be associated with the bookmakers instead - despite a the firm offering them a free bet if the name change received approval.

Alternative names put forward include Ned Haig Lane, after the founder of rugby sevens, given its close proximity to the Greenyards - home of Melrose Rugby Club; and West End Lane.

Mr Windram said: “This might have been a suggestion for William Hill because there is no-one living in it.” Scottish Borders Council is expected to make a final decision in the coming weeks.