A PLAQUE has been unveiled in Innerleithen to remember a prominent businessman from the town.

Murray Allan, who founded textile firm Murray Allan of Innerleithen Ltd, died at the age of 55 in 1987.

And on Saturday a special memorial was revealed at Cleikum Mill – the building which housed his firm for almost 30 years.

It was unveiled by his widow May, in front of a large crowd of proud family members and friends.

Mr Allan’s daughter Elizabeth Rae told the Peeblesshire News: “We were amazed at how many people turned up and felt extremely proud that Murray was held in such high regard.

“Memories and stories were shared and I’d not be surprised if more reunions arise from the day.”

Mr Allan set up the business, which specialised in cashmere knitwear, back in 1971.

And it provided more than 200 jobs for the town.

Ms Rae explained: “Murray Allan of Innerleithen Ltd produced highly prestigious garments and was globally very successful.

“It was awarded the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement in 1990, and attracted royal visits from Prince Charles, Princess Anne and the Duke of Kent.

“Murray sadly died in 1987 at the age of 55, but was there for the visit of Prince Charles.

“We invited all surviving employees to attend the ceremony.

“The only ones who could not come were those who were either on holiday on the day or are aged and were too ill to be there.

“Most of the workforce were local to Innerleithen and knew Murray and all the Allan family well. Many were also married couples and some were whole families – in fact the company was one big, proud family.”