Sir, Like many other people, I’m sure that I wasn’t alone in eagerly awaiting the “PN” and your report on the wonderful “TweedLove” International Cycling Festival which recently visited our area. I was absolutely astounded therefore to then read of the unbelievable criticism which came from the Chairman of Innerleithen Community Council, Mr Paul Faris.

The TweedLove Festival was undoubtedly a huge success and probably the most prestigious international event ever to take place in the Scottish Borders. Little wonder that it was welcomed by hoteliers, proprietors of dozens of bed and breakfast establishments, publicans and shopkeepers. Members of the public, who were not necessarily cycling enthusiasts, also turned out enthusiastically in large numbers, giving participating cyclists a very warm friendly welcome. It made you proud to be a Borderer and to hear the praise coming back from competitors about the beauty of the area and the friendliness of the spectators.

I heard one very strong American accent saying over a microphone that he couldn’t wait to tell his friends in the States when he got home about the people of the Scottish Borders and the beauty of the area. He went on to say that, having taken part in many similar events in other parts of the world, this event in his opinion ranked as one of, if not the, best events he had ever participated in.

How sad therefore to then read about the unbelievable criticism for the event organisers which came from Mr Faris of Innerleithen Community Council. He complained strongly about a lack of contact from the organisers about details of the route through Innerleithen - the “World Series” category of the event not allowing for advance information being publicised which might “assist” competitors.

It was, however, gratifying that Scottish Borders Councillor Stuart Bell and another Innerlethen Community Councillor did immediately spring to the defence of the TweedLove organisers. The event is said to have raised around £500,000 for the local economy.

Little wonder that the Race Director later appeared to be totally taken aback by the very strongly implied criticism from the Innerleithen Community Council Chairman. It can only be hoped that the event organisers, who were absolutely thrilled at the huge success of their first venture into Scottish Borders, are able to remember the warmth of their overall welcome and that those lingering memories influence them to bring the event here again.

I am, etc.

(Name and address supplied) Peebles