CRASH analysts claim a Borders road is the most improved in the whole of Scotland when it comes to safety.

Using data from the Road Safety Foundation, compilers at insurance firm Ageas believe the A72 from Galashiels all the way through Peeblesshire has seen the biggest reduction in crashes over the past five years.

Several accident blackspots on the carriageway - particularly around Innerleithen and Dirtpot Corner near Cardroan - have been improved in recent years.

And long stretches of the road have also been resurfaced with better signage introduced.

Andy Watson CEO of Ageas Insurance said: “It’s reassuring to see that drivers who use the A72 are experiencing a reduced risk of death or serious injury on this road.

"We deal with the devastating aftermaths of serious road crashes every day.

"That’s why we’re calling for investment - infrastructure safety means much more than just filling in potholes."

Further improvement work on the A72 is currently ongoing at Dirtpot Corner.