Purvis and Moore urge caution during inclement weather

12.00.00am GMT Wed 6th Jan 2010

Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale MSP Jeremy Purvis and Roxburgh, Berwickshire and Selkirk MP Michael Moore today expressed concern for the safety of constituents in the Borders after snowfall and poor road conditions have kept schools closed for two days running.

Purvis commented:

"The extreme weather conditions are very concerning and while the school term is unfortunately experiencing further delays I, and I'm sure all of the parents in the Borders, are happy to know that schools are taking precaution and only opening when conditions are safe to do so.

"The cold weather is expected to continue for another fortnight and I am supporting Scottish Borders Council in providing services to elderly people who may be struggling in the snow and people with older homes and boilers. In this cold weather all the help that people can offer to neighbours will certainly aid in the easing of these difficulties."

Michael Moore added:

"With a number of roads in the Borders virtually impassable due to the heavy snow, I would urge all of my constituents to follow police advice and avoid making any unnecessary journeys.

When travel conditions are so treacherous, safety must always be the number one priority.

"I would also encourage people in the Borders to follow the council's advice and offer assistance to any elderly or vulnerable people in your communities that may be struggling in the cold - a small helping hand can make a real difference."