VALLEY dwellers who were hit by flooding are urged to attend a meeting in Ettrick tomorrow (Thursday).

Many houses and businesses in the Ettrick and neighbouring Yarrow valleys were affected by December's floods.

Flood officers, emergency planning officials, representatives from SEPA and also funding experts will all be on hand at the Boston Hall drop-in session.

Selkirkshire councillor Vicky Davidson told us: "The devastation around Ettrick village has to be seen to be believed and merits a multi-agency response.

"I'm pleased that Scottish Borders Council has been able to pull together this response and they will also help with the clear up."

Householders affected by the recent floods can claim up to £1500 in grants to help with the clean up.

Farms and business are able to claim for up to £3,000.

And community projects, which includes community halls, also qualify for the £3,000 grants.

Councillor Davidson believes the recent storms are a reminder of the need for mobile phone coverage in the rural valleys.

She added: "I have been impressing on the emergency planning team that the community simply can't be cut off by road flooding as frequently as has happened this winter.

"The lack of mobile phone coverage and recurring problems with the BT landlines also means that some people are feeling very vulnerable and isolated."

The Boston Hall drop in session tomorrow runs from 4pm to 7pm.