Coronavirus forces cancellation of Earlston and Walkerburn summer celebrations

Organisers of the annual celebrations have called them off in order to adhere to the isolation guidelines laid down by the UK Government.

Earlston Civic Week chairman Steven Cessford said: “Due to the current situation regarding the spread of Covid-19 and taking into account government advice, the committee has decided we have no other option other than to cancel the civic week due to take place from Sunday, June 31, to Saturday, July 6.

“This is disappointing, particularly for the volunteers on the committee and the local community who have been working hard in preparation for this year’s civic week.

“However, the decision was made to protect the health of our committee and community. I look forward to seeing you all in 2021 and making that year a huge success.”

Walkerburn Summer Festival week, due to start on Saturday, June 21, is cancelled for the same reasons.

A spokesperson said: “Unfortunately the Walkerburn Summer Festival will not be going ahead this year. We are all gutted as we had a lot of things planned.

“However 2021 will be bigger and better.”