The Scottish Borders first ever Crematorium has officially opened its doors. A special service of dedication was held by religious leaders from across the region.
The building was completed by the end of last year and has already proved to be an invaluable local service, as Jenny Longden reports.
Borders Crematorium, near Melrose, has been officially opened with a service of dedication.
The 2.6 million pound complex, set in the Eildon Hills, is the first of its kind in the Borders.
Reverend Jane Howitt, Moderator of Melrose and Peebles Presbytery, conducted the ceremony.
Several other religious leaders attended the service reflecting the diverse beliefs within the region. Local Funeral Directors and clergy who have been arranging funerals at the Crematorium over the past 10 months are among the 80 people who attended.
Borders Crematorium, near Melrose, will be officially opened with a service of dedication.
The 2.6 million pound complex, set in the Eildon Hills, is the first of its kind in the Borders.
Reverend Jane Howitt, Moderator of Melrose and Peebles Presbytery, will conduct the ceremony.
Several other religious leaders will attend the service reflecting the diverse beliefs within the region. Local Funeral Directors and clergy who have been arranging funerals at the Crematorium over the past 10 months are amongst the 80 people expected to attend.
It's now four months since a controversial crematorium opened in the Borders - the first in the area.
While it attracted a great deal of opposition at the time, it's since won praise.
However, there are still concerns - among them its proximity to what people say is a dangerous junction.
Jenny Longden reports.