CHILDREN'S homes in Peebles and Hawick will come under the microscope later this year as part of an ongoing nationwide abuse inquiry.

The Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry began last year in an effort to uncover the extent of abuse suffered by children in care.

Under the guidance of Judge Lady Smith the inquiry has been hearing evidence from former children and staff at homes, secure units, boarding schools, healthcare establishments and foster care centres, as well as from the organisations which run them.

More than 60 institutions, including several top private schools and church bodies, are being investigated.

But from this autumn the spotlight will fall on residential child care establishments run by large care providers Quarriers, Aberlour and Barnardo’s.

And among the seven Barnardo's homes being investigated are two in the Borders - Craigerne in Peebles and Balcary in Hawick.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry said: “The Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry wants to ensure that all available evidence is gathered.

“Investigations are on-going, with evidence being taken from survivors and other witnesses who can provide valuable information, as well as gathering a wide range of documentary evidence.

“We have been pleased with the response to date but as the investigation progresses, we would actively encourage anyone who has relevant information to get in touch.

“If you have information or experiences of any establishments run by Barnardo’s, especially the ones listed, please contact the Inquiry’s witness support team as soon as possible.”

Barnardo's opened Craigerne in Peebles in 1956 as a residential school for up to 25 boys with 'emotional difficulties'.

It was refurbished in 1982 with improved classrooms, better toilets and a new gymnasium and workshop.

But it closed seven years later.

Balcary was initially opened by Barnardo's in 1944 as a wartime evacuation centre to house girls from Kent.

The Hawick property was then used as a holiday home for Barnardo's children until its closure in 1974.

Anyone who worked or was a resident at either of the Barnardo's establishments in the Borders can contact the inquiry’s witness support team on 0800 0929 300 or talktous@childabuseinquiry.scot

Individuals can also write to the Inquiry by post at SCAI, PO Box 24085, Edinburgh EH7 9EA.