Ian represents Peebles as part of his Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale Constituency.

Born and raised on the Isle of Bute Ian was educated at Rothesay Academy and then obtained his honours degree in English at Glasgow University, and commenced his teaching career in Clydebank. Ian came to Peebles in l97O as Principal Teacher in English at Peebles High School where he remained until being elected as MSP in l999.

Ian has been involved in the area, not only in politics but as a member of Peebles and District Round Table. He worked with the late Ian Lawson to devise Peebles Town Walk and at Peebles High School produced, directed and even acted in plays, music and opera shows.

Being born and brought up in Rothesay Ian is no stranger to Highland Games and remembers attending Bute Highland Games and Cowal Games in nearby Dunoon. He has also been a regular attender at our own Games firstly as a fund raiser with the Round Table and now as an enthusiastic spectator.

Accompanying Ian today is his wife Midge who was also born and brought up on the Isle of Bute, she was a teacher at Peebles High School and did fundraising with Peebles and District Ladies Circle.

Ian has a busy life as an MSP being on the Parliamentary Committee for Education, Culture and Sport and is Deputy Convenor of the Subordinate Legislation Committee and is seen regularly in and around Peebles as well as the rest of his constituency.

We welcome Ian and Midge today and trust that they will enjoy the experience and take away some happy memories.