FAMOUS faces from the Borders feature in an exhibit coming to the Great Tapestry of Scotland Centre in Galashiels.

The first visiting exhibit, called Iconic Scotland, boasts contributions from a host of well-known Borderers including rugby players Doddie Weir and Chris Paterson, footballer John Collins and actor Grant O’Rourke.

Mr O’Rourke, who is known for his theatre work as well as his role in television show Outlander, spoke of his immense pride that the tapestry centre will be based in his hometown.

“The spirit of the Borders and our whole nation is forged in our stories,” he said.

“Having a national cultural resource like this in Galashiels is a great way of connecting the people of the Borders to Scottish culture and hopefully connecting the people of Scotland (and further) to the Borders.”

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Photo: A piece of the Great Tapestry of Scotland focuses on Scotland football team's 1978 World Cup campaign

The tapestry centre was initially scheduled to open in September, 2020 but has been delayed until April, 2021.

It has received £6.7 million in funding from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, the Borders Railway Blueprint programme and Scottish Borders Council.

There are hopes the centre will attract up to 50,000 tourists a year, providing a boost to Galashiels town centre.

The Iconic Scotland exhibit will tell the people’s story of Scotland through the reflections of more than 40 national icons, pioneers and inspiring individuals.

It will contain words from NHS Borders clinical director Jonathan Aldridge, reflecting on being on the frontline during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Photo: The 'pop music' panel on the Great Tapestry of Scotland

Centre director Sandy Maxwell-Forbes says the Great Tapestry of Scotland has “received global acclaim” since its creation in 2013.

She said: “We have already received wonderful contributions from some of the most inspiring and iconic people.

“People are such a big part of Scotland’s story. It is the people of Scotland, their achievements and their warmth of welcome that really put our much loved small country on the map.

“We want to ensure our new national gallery and exhibition space will always be where Scotland’s story truly begins.”

Other famous contributors to Iconic Scotland include Joanna Lumley; Ann Cleeves; Liz McColgan; Sir Geoff Palmer; Drew McIntyre; Dame Evelyn Glennie; Tony Singh; Tom Brown; Sarjoj Lal; Damian Barr; Iain Spink; the Duke of Argyll; Craig Murray; Debbie Paterson; Halla Mohieddeen; Moy Mackay; Jill Douglas; Sam Heughan and charity Tiny Changes.