NEWCOMERS to the villages of Broughton, Skirling and Drumelzier were welcomed at a party by more than 20 clubs and organisations from the district.

It was the first such event held since 2019 after gatherings were put on hold by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hosts assembled in Broughton Village Hall last Sunday from 2.30pm and were given reusable name badges bought specially for the occasion by the organisers Upper Tweed Community Council (UTCC).

Guests arrived from 3pm and in addition to the many hosts, were also welcomed by Tweeddale’s Lord Lieutenant Sir Hew Strachan and his wife, Reverend Pamela Strachan.

Welcoming everyone, with a short speech, UTCC chairman Andrew Beveridge said: “All communities like ours survive with many volunteers, clubs and societies and although we are a small community there are lots of things in which to get involved.

“A big thanks to all for this afternoon which used to happen every year or two, have a great time.”

Hosts and organisations included: Ingrid Campbell, representing the bonfire and dancing group; Jayne Cook, from Broughton in Bloom; Jen McBeth, from Broughton Shop; Tweeddale West councillor Viv Thomson; Yvonne Waugh, of Boxercise; Mary Morrison and Kay Riding, from Broughton and District Bowling Club; Audrey Brown, from Broughton Scottish Women’s Institute; Tessa Goodwin, as an environment rep and UTCC; Jane Buchanan-Dunlop, horticulture; Ann Welsh, Upper Tweed Community Drivers; and Ruth Kirby, Choral Society.

UTCC members provided the tea, coffee and home baking.

Among the many newcomers were people who had moved to the area up to three years ago and others who had come as recently as this August.

At one point during the event a robin flew into the hall.

As it dive bombed guests the lights were turned out and it made good an escape.

UTCC vice chair Rosalind Birchall said: “It was a wonderful and enjoyable opportunity for the many newcomers to the Broughton area to meet people over a cup of tea and cake and to see the wide variety of activities are carried out locally with all the clubs and organisations represented.”