The Scottish Borders area holds a wealth of talent 'Rob Elliot' has been around timber all his life. Born in 1963, in the historic town of Selkirk, Rob spent many free hours throughout childhood making things from wood in the carpenter’s shop of his father’s sawmill. After leaving school in 1980, he entered the family business, where he learned more about the various species of native hardwoods as they were processed though the mill. While admiring the grain of the timber, it struck Rob that it was a shame to see this beautiful material being cut up for such basic uses as boards and fence posts. It was from this point that the idea of creating furniture which would show the natural shapes and forms of the wood to best advantage came into being. After leaving saw milling behind to explore the possibilities of this idea, Rob decided to specialise in Elm which to his eye has the most interesting grain and colouring, particularly Wych or Scottish Elm. From 1987 to the present, he has been developing his ideas along with a portfolio of increasingly striking pieces, a selection of which can be viewed throughout his website. www.robelliotfurniture.com

Wiltonburn Farm nr Hawick is a must for fans of the Scottish Borders area. You will be warmly welcomed and cared for as you unwind on their friendly, working mixed farm. Experience the rolling green hills and idyllic valley 2 miles from Hawick, the centre of Scottish textiles. Your base for walking, riding, fishing, golf, castles and stately homes. Log fires, cosy rooms and their showroom containing designer cashmere knitwear, costume jewellery, paintings, furniture and country gifts will make your stay more pleasurable. There are three letting rooms for Bed and Breakfast and there is an offer of shop discount to any of their guests. For further information please e-mail shell@wiltonburnfarm.u-net.com or better still explore the full range of facilities available by viewing www.wiltonburnfarm.co.uk