From today's BBC Scotland website

Hawick's Hornshole memorial struck by vandals

 

The statue is in the heart of the town and is central to its common riding celebrations each year

Police have appealed for public help after a famous monument in the heart of Hawick was damaged by vandals.

The Hornshole memorial, which features a horse and rider, had part of its flag snapped off some time between 17:00 on Friday and 09:00 on Monday.

Lothian and Borders Police said the incident would be "difficult to comprehend" for local people.

Anyone who was in the area and saw anything suspicious has been asked to contact police.

A spokesperson said: "This monument is a major landmark and asset to the people of Hawick.

"It plays a significant and pivotal part in a number of its customs and traditions and to have it vandalised by mindless people will be difficult to comprehend for many local people.

"There will be people within the town who will know who has caused this damage and we would urge them to come forward and assist police with their enquiries."

The Battle of Hornshole, which is commemorated by the statue on Hawick's High Street, holds great historic importance for the town.

Its events are a central part of the common riding celebrations which take place every year.

In 1514 - a year after the Scottish army suffered a heavy defeat at Flodden - a party of English soldiers was camped at Hornshole, two miles from Hawick.

Youths of the town set out to meet them and defeated them, capturing their flag.