THE SNP has announced its candidates for both Tweeddale wards in the upcoming Borders council elections.

Hoping to represent Tweeddale East is Innerleithen Community Council chairman Marshall Douglas.

The dad of two has lived in the region for the last 40 years with his wife Lynda.

He has been a member of Innerleithen Community Council for 10 years and has acted as chairman for six.

During the pandemic Mr Douglas helped to establish the Innerleithen Coronavirus Mutual Assistance Group, which offered help to vulnerable residents during the first lockdowns.

If elected, Mr Douglas will take over from councillor Stuart Bell, who is leader of the opposition at Scottish Borders Council (SBC).

He said: “[I’m] Delighted and honoured to have been selected as the SNP local government candidate for Tweeddale East.

“Following on from the hardworking councillor Stuart Bell, a hard act to follow.”

And the SNP has selected Viv Thomson to represent them in the Tweeddale West ward at the local election in May.

Ms Thomson, of Blyth Bridge, has worked in the health service for more than 25 years in roles including business, communications, and equality and diversity.

Currently working as an outreach worker for the Citizens Advice Bureau, Ms Thomson has also worked with the Lamancha Newlands & Kirkurd Community Council where she was secretary and chair; the Lamancha Development Association and the Peeblesshire Scottish Women’s Institute.

Ms Thomson will follow from councillor Heather Anderson, who has represented the SNP in Tweeddale West for the last five years.