THE outstanding achievements of ten Borderers have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

Four individuals have been awarded OBEs for their accomplishments including former Scottish rugby star Doddie Weir for services to his sport, as well as to research into motor neurone disease.

The 48-year-old from Stow was diagnosed with the condition more than two years ago, and has campaigned ever since for better research through his My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.

Also collecting and OBEs is Annette Bruton from West Linton. The former principal of Edinburgh College has been recognised for services to education.

Dr Stephen Lee from Peebles, who is a group manager with the Forestry Commission, has received an OBE for services to Forestry.

And Professor Anna Meredith from Tweeddale receives an OBE for services to animal welfare and the veterinary profession.

Tourette's syndrome campaigner John Davidson from Galashiels has been awarded an MBE for the support he has provided to fellow sufferers. Also set to receive an MBE is John Lindsay from Biggar for his public and political service.

And there are British Empire Medals for two stalwarts of the Beltane Festival, Allan Beveridge and David Turnbull who were recognised for services to their community.

Allan said: “David Turnbull and I have been joint-secretaries of the Beltane Committee for over 40 years. We are delighted for getting an award for doing what we thoroughly enjoy. We couldn’t have done it without everyone else.”

David added: “It was a great surprise to find out and a great honour. It was also a little embarrassing as myself and Allan are only a small cog in a big wheel, but we are delighted and honoured.

“We got a letter about a month ago to say that we had been nominated and would we like to accept? And of course we wrote back straight away to accept.”

Barbara Elborn was also honoured with a BEM for services to her community in Newcastleton.

And George Prentice, who is the local Welfare Officer for the RAF Association was awarded a British Empire Medal for his work with ex-Service Personnel and the community of Coldingham.

Tweeddale MP and Scottish Secretary David Mundell said: “I'm delighted and very proud that Scots who have made an immense contribution in such a diverse range of fields have been honoured.

"They have made an outstanding contribution in a wide range of fields, from charity to business and sport to science, they help our communities thrive and inspire future generations.

“For his important research in life sciences at the University of Dundee, Mike Ferguson adds 'Sir' to his title Professor.

“Ann Gloag, a tireless philanthropist and hugely successful businesswoman, is an inspiration.

“The incomparably brilliant Nicola Benedetti is recognised for her services to music, while Doddie Weir, Kate Caithness and Louise Martin are honoured for their tremendous contribution to Scottish sport.

“I am pleased we have so many Scots being recognised for their tireless work in their communities. From Desley Stickle in Shetland to David Turnbull and Allan Beveridge in Peebles and many more in-between who are receiving British Empire Medals.

“I offer my heartfelt congratulations to all those who have been honoured this year.”