Fire service plea as flames light up night sky in Galashiels

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service says it's aware of a fire in the hills above Galashiels.

But it's urging the public not to be alarmed.

It says it's already received a number of calls about the incident - but it's understood to be a controlled burn.

Flames can be seen lapping the top of the hill, near Ladhope Golf Club.

It's understood the local landowner is burning brash ahead of replanting.

One local said: "I’ve just driven from Selkirk and could see it from the Boleside road."

Another said: "(Firefighters) arrived at the golf course when I was walking the dogs, not impressed after having to walk all the way up in full fireman outfit for a look."

A third added: "It's apparently a controlled burn by the farmer. I called 999 before and they told me."

In a statement issued shortly after 5pm this evening (Tuesday), a spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are aware of a fire in the open near to the Langlee area of Galashiels.

"There is no need to alert our Operations Control room about this fire, as we are receiving a number of calls about this incident."

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