A PEEBLES resident has stepped in to help install an information plaque on a historic Tweeddale railway bridge.

As previously reported, the Gutterbluids Society, along with the town’s Callants’ Club have worked tirelessly to restore the Neidpath viaduct.

And now, thanks to a donation from local Gerry Rossi, the finishing touches have been made to the project.

John Falla, who is a member of the Callants’ Club told us: “It was reported when the Gutterbluids Society, Peebles Callants’ Club and friends repainted the Neidpath Viaduct, that all that was missing was a plaque to honour the designer – Peebles resident Mr Robert Murray.

“And Gerry Rossi very kindly responded.

“With partial funding from both societies and Wemyss Estates the plaque is now in place.

“We would like to thank Gerry for the very substantial donation towards the project.”

The bridge, built over the Tweed in 1864, is listed as one of the best examples of a skew arch construction in Scotland.

It saw its last steam train in 1954, but is a popular crossing for locals and visitors exploring the woodland that surrounds the river. And in August last year, dedicated volunteer groups helped restore the viaduct to its former glory.

Locals rolled up their sleeves, grabbed their paint brushes and restored the 352 panels of railings –a job which had not been undertaken in almost a century.

Mr Falla, added: “We trust Mr Murray would be happy that local volunteers admire and care for his work some 150 years later.

“I am so grateful to everyone who had faith in this fantastic project, without their hard work it would not have been possible.”