Thursday February 19th 2026
Scottish Borders Countryside Alliance
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Election candidates in the Scottish Borders have been invited to show their countryside credentials.
Ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections, the Scottish Countryside Alliance is set to hold a special rural hustings to discuss the key issues affecting the rural community.
The hustings will take place on Monday, March 30 at 7pm, at Tweed Horizons, Newton St Boswells, and will be chaired by Jake Swindells, the director of Scottish Countryside Alliance.
The much-anticipated hustings will be a unique opportunity for voters to hear directly from the candidates standing for election, ask questions and engage in a lively debate about the challenges and opportunities facing the countryside.
Representatives from all major political parties have been invited, and there is a strong line up of speakers.
Rachel Hamilton, MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, will be representing the Scottish Conservatives, and John Redpath, the SNP’s candidate for the same constituency, will also be speaking.
They are joined by Carolyn Grant from Reform Party Scotland, and the Scottish Liberal Democrats candidate for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, Ray Georgeson.
Mr Swindells said: “The countryside is at the heart of both life and identity in the Scottish Borders, and it is so important that local rural people should have the opportunity to hear from candidates directly about their views on rural issues, and have the chance to question them face to face.
“We are most grateful to all speakers for giving up their time to event, and look forward to an engaging and informative evening.
“Whether you’re a farmer, rural business owner, or simply passionate about the future of rural Scotland, your voice matters and we encourage you to join us.”
The Scottish Countryside Alliance are inviting anyone interested to attend the event, which can be done by following the link here.
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