COMMUNITY leaders have expressed concern that under age drinking is ruining the image of a historic village festival.

Hordes of youngster were spotted with alcohol during the week-long festivities of the Whipman in West Linton.

Community council secretary Graham Tulloch said: “It’s Whipman week and you do expect drinking. There was a large group who came with their own alcohol - it hadn’t been purchased in the village.

“We need to be careful as it does tarnish the Whipman with the selling of drink to the under age.” Community council chairman Eric Small said: “I know they were quite strict at the bar in the marquee.” Tweeddale West Councillor Willie Archibald is concerned and said: “If anyone sees under age drinking they should report it to the police. Some times the kids are taking from their parents, some times the parents are aware and other times they get people to buy it for them.”