THE crumbling condition of an iconic football stand in Galashiels will be revealed next month.

Engineers have spent the past couple of weeks carrying out drilling tests on the Peter Womersley designed stand at Netherdale.

And their samples are about to be tested under laboratory conditions to determine the scale of problems.

The A-listed building has been closed since the start of the year due to concerns over falling masonry.

And Gala Fairydean Rovers have brought in a modern replacement structure to seat supporters for their Lowland League matches.

A spokesman for the club said: "We all have our fingers crossed that the problems with the stand aren't as bad as was first feared.

"There is visible deterioration and conservation work is needed - but we hope the test results show that the structure is sound and we can get our stand back in the not too distant future.

"The health and safety of our staff and supporters is paramount, so the stand will remain closed until all repair works are completed."

The Netherdale grandstand, built in 1964, was one of the first football stadiums in the UK to use a cantilever design.

Womersley's revolutionary design attracts visitors from around the world.

Scottish Borders Council is supporting Gala Fairydean Rovers with the required repairs.

A spokesman for the local authority said: “A contractor is currently carrying out intrusive investigation works on the Netherdale stand.

“This work is expected to be completed within the next week, with laboratory tests to follow which will be part of a report presented to Gala Fairydean Rovers FC in autumn.

“This report will include information on the extent of the repairs required, and assist the club with any funding applications it plans to submit to restore the stand.”