The Borders Tourist people don't mess about. Today's post brought Huttonian his appointment to the membership of the Scottish Borders Ambassador's Club-a pile of informative brochures on what is still apparentlyScotland's favourite short break destination and a packet of pretty cards to which I am to append my name when handing them out to putative visitors to the region when I am experiencing one of my outwith moments. No sign, as yet, of my car pennant, personal ambassadorial standard, notification of my frais de representation ( money to maintain my position, in plain anglais) or my ambassadorial credentials signed by the local head of state. None the less I will embark upon my duties with enthusiasm. I am due to be in the Big Smoke next week and may as well start as I intend to continue by distributing some of the cards on my trip on WAGN from Kings Cross to the salubrities of Palmers Green. By handing one card to every occupant of coach c on the Finsbury Park to PG leg I will be able to spread the word about the glories of the Borders and impress my purpose by insisting on shaking hands with every passenger as I do so. For southern commuters, disgruntled or otherwise it will be a welcome change from buskers and the usual type of mendicant with snotty child in tow-and who knows I may ,after all, get a contribution or two towards my Frais-I'll bring a Borders Bonnet for any good will offerings, just in case.

Those of you who want to know more repair without delay to www.visitscottishborders.com and any messages of support or enquiries to Their Excellencies the Scottish Borders Ambassadors borderambassador@visitscotland.com  ¶ 9:49 AM