A COUNTRY estate outside Selkirk has been given an early £200,000 Christmas present.

The Haining was gifted to the community almost a decade ago.

And ever since progress has been made in turning the mansion and its grounds into a top-class venue and visitor attraction.

This week it has been announced that the Haining Charitable Trust has been awarded a Wood in and around Towns (WIAT) grant for just over £200,000 from the Forestry Commission.

The cash will be used to transform the woodlands and create better views, better accessibility and new opportunities for community events.

Michelle Ballantyne, chairperson of the Haining Charitable Trust, told us: "I am determined to help the Selkirk community develop an asset that will become self financing over time, and lift the spirits of all the local population who have used or will use the paths.

"The Forestry Commissions WIAT grant funding package is being developed by Jeremy Thompson of Forest Direct, who also did Traquair WIAT application, and we are working closely with Jeremy to ensure the paths are exceptionally suited for disabled access, and the woods thinned and safe.

"We hope that the project will create a real stir of emotion within the Selkirk community.

"If you have ideas as to ways to maximize the use of the woodlands for community and educational purposes, and are prepared to help make it happen, then please get in touch and join the team."

As well as huge improvements around Traquiar WIAT funding has also helped transform the woodlands around Abbotsford.

David Beaton from Beaton Forestry Ltd has already began planning new disabled-friendly pathways around the Haining Loch.

And new viewing platforms will be created in the months ahead.

A fresh tree survey and woodland management plan will be drawn up and improved seating and play areas will be introduced.

Ms Ballantyne added: "The work will be staggered as much as possible, but I need to warn the users that when the time comes, and work get started in earnest, there will be a period of upheaval, with sections of the path closed temporarily for the safety of the public and contractors."

Part of the funding for the improvements will come from the felling of trees near the current bike trails.

A new timber haulage route will be created to extract the felled trees in an effort to protect the historic arched entrance to the estate.

It is expected the work will continue for the next 20 months.

Jeremy Thompson of Forest Direct commented: "We now have an approved management plan from the Forestry Commission and have also had the grant of over £200,000 approved.

"This is great news and I look forward to giving the community a chance to learn about the planned works and how things may progress in an arranged community meeting."