CHRISTMAS dances will not go ahead in schools across the region this year, Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has confirmed.

The decision has been made due to coronavirus infection rates and current guidance in the Borders.

A council spokesperson said that “every attempt” will be made to put on events at a later date.

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The spokesperson said: “Unfortunately the current Scottish Government guidance for schools means that traditional festive dances organised by our secondary schools cannot take place this year.

“Our secondary headteachers have shared this disappointing news with pupils and parents but every attempt will be made to put on suitable alternative events at a later date when the guidance allows, such as dances around Valentine’s Day or proms/ceilidhs etc.

“Our schools will of course be looking at other ways in which they can celebrate the festive period appropriately.”

No school dances were planned as the current guidance does not enable them to take place.

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A message from SBC was posted on Facebook by Galashiels Academy headteacher Kevin Ryalls.

The message reads: “Given on-going infection rates within Scottish Borders and current COVID-19 guidance for schools, regrettably the decision has been taken in conjunction with secondary head teachers not to allow School Christmas Dances in December 2021.

“We appreciate the disappointment this will cause to many of our young people but it is important we keep our young people and their families safe at this time.

“If and when current restrictions ease, we hope to consider social gatherings in 2022.”