Luke Gaskell managed some recording in v.c. 80 with good results. Valerianella carinata (Keeled-fruited Cornsalad) from Kelso was new as was Abutilon theophrasti (Velvetleaf ) as a single plant in a Kale field from his farm at Kittyfield. He recorded Yellow Gagea lutea (Star-of-Bethlehem) from several sites by the Tweed above Abbotsford one of which was in a new hectad and a new site for Galium boreale (Northern Bedstraw) in its typical rocky riverside habitat. Murdo Mutch’s excellent record of Neottia nidus-avis (Birds-nest Orchid) from woodland to the South of Hawick in a hectad from which it was last recorded almost 150 years ago was noteworthy. Roger Manning has sent in number of interesting records from the east of Roxburghshire.

Commercial Sitka Spruce plantings continues a pace in the area and JW and RC have been involved with others in trying to modify forestry plans near an exceptionally rich mire (Muirfiled Moss) which has been overlooked for SSSI status between Hawick and Selkirk. In a recent survey JW refound Juncus alpino-articulatus (Alpine Rush), Gentianella amarella (Autumn Gentian) and Sagina nodosa (Knotted Pearlwort) from there with Sanguisorba officinalis (Great Burnet) nearby. We are hopeful that the site can be saved. JW has been updating species records on the SHARPP (Scottish Hectad Rare Plant Project) list including Myosotis stolonifera (Pale Forget-me-not) and Potentilla argentea (Hoary Cinquefoil).

In addition RC checked botanical records held by TWIC (The Wildlife Information Centre) sent in by Natalie Harmsworth and continues to make progress with his Flora of the vice-counties.