Local politicians, John Lamont MP and Rachael Hamilton MSP, have announced that their annual summer surgery tour is cancelled due to COVID-19.
The yearly tour usually visits 84 towns and villages across the Borders and goes from Newcastleton to Cockburnspath and Burnmouth to Cappercleuch.
However, due to the ongoing social distancing measures the tour cannot go ahead. For John, it will be the first time in 14 years that his Borders surgery tour has not taken place.
In the meantime, John and Rachael are holding surgeries using other methods and hope to get regular surgeries back to normal when government advice allows.
John Lamont MP commented: “Holding surgeries in every village and town in my constituency is a real highlight of my year. I’m really disappointed that for the first time in 14 years, it will not be happening this summer. However, it is important that we all follow government advice to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
“Of course, I am always contactable through email, phone or by writing to me at my office in Hawick. However, I know that many people prefer to talk to me face to face.
“That’s why I am holding regular telephone surgeries for the time being. You can book an appointment by emailing me or contacting my office.
“Whilst it has been an incredibly busy few weeks working from my home in Coldstream, I really hope to get back out and about across the Borders soon.”
Rachael Hamilton MSP added: “I am disappointed our summer surgery tour has had to be cancelled as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, but it is important we follow the official guidance and ensure everyone is safe.
“It is a great opportunity for us to catch up and speak face to face with constituents, especially those in rural remote communities.
“Even though my Kelso office is closed to constituents, I don’t want to lose my connection with constituents and you can get in touch in many other ways, either via email at [email protected], through my website at www.rachaelhamilton.co.uk, phone 01573 224862, or write to 7 Abbey Court, Kelso, TD5 7JA.
“I am here to help during these challenging times, and I am very much looking forward to meeting constituents again in hopefully the near future when the restrictions are safely lifted”.
