John MitchellScottish National Party

We both still live in Selkirk with Rogan, our Irish setter and Tika the cat.

I worked as a chartered accountant and also in various fields including newspapers, Borders Health Board, electronics, and for MSP Christine Grahame.

I have been involved in many local community activities, including the cub pack, the chess club and the RNLI.

I have 30 years’ experience as a councillor, including being deputy leader of Scottish Borders Council.

I know that being a local councillor is a full-time commitment, and I relish that challenge.

My main aims as a Selkirkshire councillor would be:

● To promote resurfacing of roads in preference to temporary patching.

● To support the construction of a Selkirk bypass, allowing heavy traffic to avoid the town and make Selkirk an attractive place to visit and shop for local people and tourists alike.

● To roll out the successful Dog Friendly Newtown initiative across Selkirkshire and ensure that fines for dog fouling are enforced.

● To protect rural schools and work towards alleviating rural poverty.

● To improve public transport.

If elected, I will work hard for all the people of Selkirkshire, holding regular surgeries, making home visits if needed and making myself available to the people of Selkirkshire.