Hike in fatal accidents

The number of people killed in fatal accidents in the Borders has doubled year on year, new figures reveal.

There were eight fatalities on the region’s roads between April and September this year, up from four over the same half-year period in 2017, Police Scotland figures show.

There was also a near 40% rise in serious injuries, up from 28 to 39.

Motorcyclists and a pillion passenger accounted for three quarters of those killed.

A report to Scottish Borders Council’s police, fire and rescue and safer communities committee said: “It is disappointing to see a 100% increase in fatalities in the Scottish Borders.”