A Borders detective described the incident that led to a man being jailed for attempted murder as ’entirely avoidable and needless."

And he said that the the circumstances would have a "long-lasting effect" on the victims and perpetrator.

Barry Smith, aged 42, was sentenced to eight years in prison at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday August 21, 2023 for attempted murder.

On Saturday, 24 July, 2021 two men sustained serious injuries after Smith deliberately drove a van at a group of motorbike riders on the A7, just south of Selkirk.

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At the time, Barry Smith was acting as a support driver for a ride out involving around 100 motorcycles. The men injured were part of a different motorcycle club.

Border Telegraph: High Court Edinburgh

Detective Sergeant Barry Roebuck, of Galashiels CID, said: "This was an entirely avoidable and needless incident, which will have a long-lasting effect on both the victims and now the perpetrator who will face the consequences of his actions with this sentence.

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"This kind of violence will not be tolerated in our communities and I hope the court outcome sends a clear message to those involved in serious crime that we are committed to seeking out those responsible and bringing them to justice.”