FUEL is about to start flowing in a Borders village again following an eight-year absence.

Villagers in Newcastleton have faced an hour's round trip to fill up their cars.

But this week work began on creating a community owned petrol station and hub.

The Newcastleton and District Community Trust was set up in 2015 with the return of fuel their priority.

The Trust secured funding from the Scottish Government Land Fund the following year and bought what was the original petrol site in the village.

Following a major fundraising drive, demolition work began on the former petrol station at North Hermitage Street.

Steve Hartley chair of Newcastleton and District Community Trust said: “Today marks a new page in our history.

"Newcastleton and District Community Trust’s vision doesn’t stop with the reinstatement of the fuel, it is the start of a series of projects that the trust is undertaking on behalf of the community, all are designed to bring regeneration, jobs and prosperity back to the Liddesdale valley.

"The fuel pumps will ensure that the village once again becomes a hub for the wider hinterland as well as the community.

"Our shops, cafes and pubs will all reap the rewards.

"We are all looking forward to seeing the demise of the old derelict eyesore and a brand-new fuel forecourt in its stead, the next few months will see that come to fruition."

Organisations and companies who have supported the Trust include the Big Lottery, Scottish Enterprise Rural Fuel Fund, BCCF Environmental, Transport Scotland, Scottish Borders Council and several voluntary organisations.

Ian Jarvie from BCCF Environmental, who are supporting the demolition phase with £31,500 of funding, said: “BCCF Environmental are pleased to be able to help support the community and enabling them to finally realise their ambition.

"It is an exciting project and one that will bring huge benefits to the community of Newcastleton and the surrounding hinterland. We wish them every success in their new community venture.”