THE Scottish Liberal Democrats has selected its candidates for this year’s local elections.

Drummond Begg has been selected to represent Tweeddale West at May’s election.

He will take over from councillor Kris Chapman, who is stepping down from his role this year to pursue a career in social work.

Dr Begg, who has worked as a GP in Penicuik for almost 25 years, is a trustee of Sustainable West Linton and District.

He said: “If elected, I hope I can be a voice of common sense.

“Our next council has a long ‘to do’ list from rebuilding our high school to reversing the decline of our health and social care services.

“Most importantly, sustainability needs to be at the heart of everything we do going forward.”

Also hoping to represent the Tweeddale East ward for the Lib Dems is David Pye.

Mr Pye has lived in Peeblesshire for 32 years and has been based in Peebles since 2003.

Mr Pye is a former chairman of Eddleston and Peebles community councils and was a founding member and chairman of Peebles Community Trust.

He said: “Sustainable development is critical for every community, whether it be a town, village or in the countryside.

“Local communities should have a much greater say in what is appropriate for their specific locality.

“Only by working closely with the individual communities is it possible to deliver the most appropriate plans and services.”

The Scottish Borders Council election will take place on May 5.

Peebles Community Trust clarification: *Peebles Community Trust is not associated with the Liberal Democrats or any other political party. The party has had no involvement with the Peebles Town Action Plan