A FINAL appeal is being made for any relatives of Ally Bally Bee writer Robert Coltart to attend the unveiling of a sculpture in his honour.

The tribute to the 19th century weaver-turned sweetmaker is to be unveiled on Friday, September 20 in Galashiels.

The finished Coulter's Candy statue by Innerleithen sculptor Angela Hunter is to be installed in the Market Square.

And flagpole banners featuring the winning artworks by local school pupils will be raised across the town centre ahead of the unveiling.

Pupils will also tie coloured ribbons to the tray part of the new statue to recreate Coltart's methods of attracting attention to his sweets as he travelled around the Borders.

Sculpture Angela, who is originally from Galashiels, along with local historians Mary Craig and Graeme McIver and local councillor Sandy Aitchison have all championed Coltart’s story alongside Helen Calder of Energise Galashiels.

They now hope descendants of the world-famous sweet seller will join them at the unveiling.

Mr McIver said: “I am delighted that after a lot of hard work by a number of people and organisations that we are now ready to unveil a permanent tribute to one of Galashiels’ most flamboyant characters.

“Robert Coltart moved to Galashiels as a young man and sold his boiled sweets around the town and across the Scottish Borders at fairs and festivals.

“He lived with his wife and children in various locations within the town, including a flat in Overhaugh Street which is include in the new town trail.

“He would dress in a variety of colourful clothes, and sang his much loved lullaby song to help advertise his wares.

“We have already spoken to a number of family relatives of Robert Coltart, but would love to have more of his relations present at the sculpture unveiling to help us celebrate his story.

“We hope this tribute will help promote Galashiels to visitors and increase the awareness and pride amongst local people in the Coulter’s Candy story.”

Further sculptures of a boy and girl will be added later this year to complete the tribute.

And an interpretation panel will also be installed.

Any relatives who wish to attend the unveiling are asked to email Mr McIver - graememciver@btinternet.com.