Local MP Michael Moore is advising the area’s veterans of a new opportunity for them to apply for a “Veteran’s Badge”, which recognises their important contribution to the British armed forces.

Eligibility for the badge has recently been extended, making it available to all men and women who served in the UK Armed Forces. However, many veterans in Hawick who might be eligible for the badge have yet to apply.

Mr Moore is urging anyone who feels that they might qualify to contact his office for an application form. He said:

“This badge is a symbol of appreciation to all our ex-servicemen and women who gave so much for the protection of our country.

“I want to encourage all local veterans to apply for the badge. It is important that their contributions and sacrifices are recognised and honoured, and this is one way of doing that.”

Application forms are available from Michael Moore’s constituency office by telephoning 01896 663 653 or can be downloaded from his website at: www.michaelmoore.org.uk and then click on ‘campaigns’.

In early February Ron took a break to go skiing in the French Alps. A small village, Risoul, could cater for thousands of visitors. By contrast, Hawick, the Queen of the Borders, and a town whose economic future requires to focus increasingly on tourism, is short of bed spaces. Ron’s wife operated their house as a Bed & Breakfast establishment until recently and enquiries are still received for accommodation. On returning from Risoul, their e-mail inbox and their answerphone had a series of such requests, for dates spread over the year, several of which were for single rooms, often more difficult to provide.

In the past, it could have been claimed that Hawick did not have the business to support more week round, and year round accommodation provision. However, hotels have closed - Kirklands, Buccleuch - and Bed & Breakfast operators have retired or closed, and the situation has markedly changed. The town is promoting a Chess Congress (when lots of single accommodation is needed), Reivers Festival, Summer Festival, and of course the return of exiles for the Common Riding, and visitors need beds.

Last weekend this problem again became very obvious to Ron, and highlighted that opportunities need to be explored to increase visitor bedspaces in the town.