A GALASHIELS councillor has been named as the leader of the Scottish Conservative group in the Borders.

Euan Jardine was returned to the ward at the council elections last week.

The Tories again secured the highest number of elected members with 14 – down one on 2017’s election.

The Scottish National Party has nine councillors, up one on 2017. Independents have seven, down two; the Scottish Liberal Democrats have three, up one; and the Green Party captured one ward.

And talks have been launched this week in a bid to form a new administration.

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Speaking after being named the Tory group leader, Mr Jardine said: “We ran a campaign on local issues, and the fact we returned fourteen councillors shows that local priorities mattered most to the people of the Scottish Borders at this election.

“As a group, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and work hard on taking action on the local issues in our wards. Whilst also ensuring the essential services run smoothly and improve where they can.

“We have returned experienced councillors mixed with new councillors that have a fresh and enthusiastic outlook on matters; the Scottish Conservatives are ready to deliver for the people of the Scottish Borders.”

Eighteen members are needed to form an administration out of the 34 councillors.