A BORDERS estate has won a prestigious award for its fishing provision.

The Bemersyde Estate, near Melrose, has won the Best Fishing Beat of the Year award at the Scottish Game Awards.

Organised by Scottish Land and Estates, the awards celebrate ghillies, gamekeepers and sporting estates.

On their award win, the Earl and Countess Haig of Bemersyde said: "We are greatly honoured to be awarded Best Fishing Beat of the Year, especially in this inaugural year.

"Nature has created an outstanding landscape at Bemersyde, and over centuries the Haigs have planted native trees which enhance the riparian landscape.

"We welcome fishermen from all over the UK and many from abroad.

"In recent years, hot summers have created challenging conditions for salmon, and we strongly support efforts by the River Tweed Commission, Tweed Foundation, and Tweed Forum to improve water quality and conditions for migratory fish.

"Our fishermen have been loyal, bringing a wealth of knowledge and insight to the beat, and we deeply appreciate their ongoing support."

Bemersyde champions river conservation, community engagement, and sustainable angling practices.

It partners with the Tweed Foundation and citizen science initiatives help monitor and protect the Tweed's ecosystem.

A Scottish Game Awards spokesperson said: "Bemersyde Estate goes beyond its environmental efforts by actively involving the local community to cultivate a spirit of stewardship and collective responsibility.

"Bemersyde's commitment to community extends to its employment practices, with a focus on supporting local residents through job opportunities and partnerships.

"By housing a full-time ghillie and employing local individuals for assistance and riverbank maintenance during busy periods, the estate not only stimulates the local economy but also fosters a sense of belonging and investment among residents.

"In summary, Bemersyde Estate distinguishes itself as a model of excellence in the realm of fishing beats through its unwavering dedication to conservation, community engagement, and innovative practices.

"From its collaboration with environmental organisations to its active involvement in citizen science initiatives, Bemersyde embodies the values of sustainability and stewardship, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the unparalleled beauty and bounty of the River Tweed."