PLANS to have been tabled for turning a former old folks' home into the jewel in the crown of Selkirk High Street.

Clare Moley wants to turns the ground floor of Abbeyfield House, which used to be a elderly care home, into a retail outlet specialising in precious stones and jewellery.

Her change of use application was submitted with Scottish Borders Council this week.

Clare said: "The business proposed is a gift shop specialising in semi precious stones and jewellery.

"I would like to eventually build this up to include goods from local craftmakers.

"I believe that this will enhance the town and promote extra footfall, particularly during tourist seasons."

Selkirk town centre has undergone a transformation over the past two years with major improvements to many buildings and the Market Place lay-out.

Mrs Moley hopes to retain the upper floors of the High Street premises as a residential dwelling.

She added: "There are three floors to the property. It is proposed that commercial activities will be carried out on the front half of the ground floor only - currently used as a lounge area.

"The remainder of the property will be residential.

"The commercial and residential portions of the property will be separated by a mobile screen, so it is not proposed that any internal walls need to be built or demolished."

Scottish Borders Council will consider the change of use application over the coming weeks.