Local papers are not noted for their coverage of international issues or even of the context for nearby happenings. The Aberdeen paper of 1912 with its reference to the sinking of the Titanic with its headline
ABERDEEN MAN LOST AT SEA is a case in point. The Berwickshire is little different . But I am surprised to find no local connection with the Athens Olympics-surely some Berwickshire lad/ lassie is somewhere in the Olympic team. Given the equestrian tendencies prevalent around here why is there no local horse person competing in Greece. 260 horsemen from Coldstream (mostly) alone rode out to Flodden and the Duns show was full of very competent riders over and occasionally under the sticks. The backpage has a small item :"Local Lads impress at Langholm Games" but it is a long way from the Acropolis and there is no hope expressed that young Andrew Bridgewater with his very creditable Minute 57 seconds for 8oo metres might be a possibility for 2008. This was a good time for a 'very tight track' whatever that might mean. I assume that all the shooters are too occupied with their Grouse to bother with such a static and unrewarding persuit as target shooting?
Perhaps no one has told the Editor that the games are on. He will realise soon enough so one assumes that by next Thursday we might expect the revelation of a Berwickshire link-however tenuous with a medal winner. 'Borders Man ex wife in clay pigeon glory' or something.
