SCOTTISH Borders Council has paid tribute to the outgoing Border Union Agricultural Society secretary.

At its full council meeting last month, convenor David Parker presented Ron Wilson with a Border Reiver statuette and gifted his wife Joan a bouquet of flowers.

As reported in the Border Telegraph earlier this month, Ron has decided to retire after 20 years involvement with the organisation.

Working with a small team based at Springwood Park in Kelso, he oversaw a number of major events, including the annual showpiece event, the Border Union Show, the ram sales, dog show and Schools Countryside Day.

He also played a significant role in transforming Springwood into a major showground and exhibition venue.

And the couple were given a standing ovation in the Newtown chamber by councillors.

Councillor Parker said: “Ron and Joan's work over the past 20 years has been tireless, inspirational and hugely successful. It's only right that as a council we thank them and wish them a well-deserved, long and very happy retirement.

"The council has worked closely with Ron and his team many times, including our election counts in recent years, and have come to value his advice, can do attitude and all round willingness to help.

"One event that Ron and Joan championed and has been a great success is the Schools Countryside Day, where every primary five pupil travels to Springwood Park for a day of fun and learning about agriculture and the wider countryside.

"This was a national first and in its own right is a magnificent legacy of their time with the Society. As a Council we will certainly continue to support it."