A NEW social enterprise established to increase cycling and walking in and around Galashiels opened at the weekend.

The Hike & Bike Hub has opened its new premises at 47 Channel Street, which was formerly occupied by Conroy’s jewellers.

Volunteers say that they want to promote active travel and healthy leisure activities and make them available to everyone, regardless of income.

Their other key priority is to raise acceptance of autism.

A group of walkers turned up at the ceremony and were piped off by Gala piper Jimmy McRae.

Volunteers Dougie Johnston and Gary Blair led the walk and will be on hand offer information about local walking routes.

Cycle mechanic George Crow will offer bike repairs and maintenance at affordable prices and will also support cyclists who want to learn to do their own repairs and maintenance.

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Hub manager Angela Crow will be there to help with any queries about their services or the other facilities available in and around the town.

The Hike and Bike Hub will be “pay what you can” – with those who can afford to pay the suggested prices for bike hire, bike servicing and led cycle rides helping to cover those costs for people who cannot.

Winter opening hours will be Thursday to Sunday 10am to 4pm.

Euan Jardine, the leader of Scottish Borders Council, attended the event.

He said: “This is an absolutely fantastic venture which will do a lot for the town. It will get people together and provide both physical and mental health benefits.

“Launching in winter is good ahead of the Borders hosting the UCI event this summer.

“The hub will be a great catalyst for other things in the town so well done to everyone involved for putting this together and I’m looking forward to taking part in some bike rides in the future.”