A LOCAL MSP has made an impassioned plea to EU citizens living in the Borders, urging them remain in the region amid ongoing Brexit uncertainty.

Christine Grahame, MSP for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, has previously written to EU citizens in the area following a successful campaign to push the UK government to scrap the £65 “settled status” fee.

Ms Graham has now sought to reassure EU nationals that the Borders will remain a welcoming home. She said: “It is important to make clear that EU citizens will always remain welcome in the Borders, and I will continue to do all I can to help people stay in Scotland.

“It’s wrong for the UK government to oblige EU citizens who have built their lives in Scotland, and who contribute massively to our economy and communities, to apply for the continued right to remain in their own homes.

“I’d like to urge anyone who has issues or concerns they would like to discuss with me to please get in touch.”

Ms Grahame’s stance comes after Nicola Sturgeon last week told EU citizens she would do everything she could to convince them that they are valued by Scotland.

The First Minister said: “It is vital for our communities and our economy that EU nationals know they are welcome and will be supported to stay in Scotland.

“You are welcome here, you contribute to this country’s diversity and richness and we will do everything we can to help you to stay.”