Team appointed to regenerate Copshaw

THE team, which will drive forward the community’s inclusive growth strategy, has been appointed by the Newcastleton and District Community Trust.

Canadian-born Gordie Campbell has been appointed development officer and his first challenge is to oversee the upgrade of Buccleuch House.

It was knocked off track because of the flood and the COVID-19 pandemic but, under his stewardship, will soon be underway.

He will oversee the creation of the new enterprise and learning centre and the first new tourism asset Bunks@Buccleuch.

Gordie, who lives in Denholm, was formerly project manager at Burnfoot Grows Together in Hawick.

He is experienced in leading projects on construction, climate change and community development in Canada, Norway and Scotland.

Evie Ashbolt, the leisure assets worker, will work alongside community groups to maximise their potential and encourage more people to become active and adopt healthier lifestyles.

The community outreach team will be led by Claire Musson who has lived in Newcastleton since 2010, working at Rock UK Whithaugh Park.

Before this change of career direction, Claire taught drama and English in secondary schools.

Claire currently chairs the school parent council and founded Liddesdale Performing Arts Society, bringing many people of all ages together to share in song and dance, along with theatrical experiences.

Her colleague Tracy Gill moved to Newcastleton from Malawi in 2015 and fell in love with its friendly community.

Since 2016, she has worked at Whithaugh Park in a client service role and is very excited to be working in the community outreach.

Julie Thomson, administrator, was born and bred in the Holm and lives with her family on the outskirts of the village.

As well as working for the trust she is a community and children’s worker and is the chaplain for the primary school.

A trust spokesperson said: “Newcastleton is fortunate that, as a community, we all care passionately about where we live and the residents.

“It’s a place where neighbours support each other and people come together in a crisis but as any crisis abates, it can leave challenges.

“The impact of Storm Dennis and COVID-19 continue to leave their mark, with many experiencing challenging new situations physically, financially and emotionally.

“Some won’t be in their own homes for Christmas given the delays enforced by COVID-19.

“The outreach team are available to help anyone from refreshing CVs to switching energy providers or chasing insurance issues.

“They are the community support frontline and will make sure no one is left behind.

“The team will also offer support and find ways to improve the mental health and well-being of everyone in the community.”

To contact Claire and Tracy call 01387 375723 or email support@newcastletoncommunitytrust.co.uk