Site for statue to magazine founder located

The fate of Hawick’s James Wilson statue could soon be decided as council officers say they have identified a suitable location.

A marble tribute to Wilson, who founded the Economist magazine, was created by Edinburgh sculptor John Steell in 1865 and until last year stood in London.

The 12ft-high sculpture was gifted to Hawick after themagazinemovedoffice. In December the statue was damaged, with two fingertips from its right hand found missing.

The town’s Heritage Hub has emerged as the frontrunner to house the statue.