AROUND 1200 primary five children from across the region attended the Countryside Day at the Borders Events Centre yesterday Tuesday 17 May. 

The annual event, which is closed to the general public, provides a unique opportunity for the children to learn about farming, food production and other aspects of rural life.

Police Scotland’s Youth community officers PC’s Carin Tait-Logan, Jo Swindells  and Lee Harper, joined Community Action Team officers PC’s Kris MacLeod, Luc Francois and Community Sergeant Ali Granger at the Springwood Park event.

There they met P5 children from across the Scottish Borders who happily took part in some enjoyable activities.

The youngsters were able to try out the quad sirens and take their own fingerprints.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “This was a great day where children had the opportunity to experience a number of rural activities provided by different organisations, agencies and businesses and was enjoyed by all.”

The schoolchildren also had the chance to enjoy over 50 other activities and demonstrations ranging from spinning, weaving, milking, beekeeping and auctioneering to sheep-shearing and stick-making. 

Sustainability was a core theme of this year’s event and the pupils discovered the importance of soil and woodland management, song birds and protecting and enhancing the environment. 

They also learned about healthy eating, livestock management, seasonal foods and the significance of food miles.