SCOTLAND’s first micropub will open in Kelso next month.

“We won’t sell alcopops, we won’t sell lager, there will be no television and no music,” said Simon Rutherford in his pitch to the Scottish Borders Licensing Board on Friday.

“It will be small pub with a capacity of 30, serving good food and real ales sourced from local suppliers, which promotes conversation in a friendly atmosphere.” The Berwickshire businessman, who will run the venture with his wife Debbie, was seeking a licence to sell alcohol from the premises – a former knitwear shop – at 38 The Square.

The licence was duly granted and Rutherfords Micropub will operate daily from 11am till 10pm.