THE Campaign For Border Rail group held an annual general meeting this weekend for the first time in its 22 year history.

The meeting, which was held at Tullie House in Carlisle, heard a loud call for the extension of the border rail northwards from the city through Hawick.

This is hoped that this would complete the reinstatement of the main line formerly known as the Waverley Route.

Marion Short, newly-elected chair of the group, said: "I live in the heart of what might be called the extension area, and have the interests of all the communities at heart.

"I want to dispel negative comment. I am a glass half full person.

"Believe me, when we get this line to Carlisle opened, I intend to be on that train.

"The professionalism of the campaign means we are taken seriously by Governments in both Holyrood and Westminster.

"This committee never loses sight of our ultimate aim: onwards to Carlisle."

John Stevenson, MP for Carlisle, gave a presentation to the group. He was questioned vigorously over funding and the feasibility study which he defended as a necessary part of the process.

It is said that this would give a solid case upon which to build the case for extension and completion of the Borders Railway.

Marion Short acknowledged the respect paid by other campaign groups around the UK, who look to the success of the Campaign for Borders Rail as a model for their own success.

Ms Short said: "The introductions of our sub-groups have generated much detailed research and information, that has significantly raised the profile of the campaign and brought closer the realisation of completion of the Borders Railway.

"Everyone has a task, whether on the committee or a member of the campaign, plays a vital role in making this project a reality, to the benefit of everyone - be they in the community, in the region or at large."

TV presenter Rob Bell was also in attendance and rounded up the afternoon.

Mr Bell said: "Engineers have always overcome challenges to build something not just spectacular, but spectacularly useful."

He continued to encourage the audience to get behind the extension project with the message that the impact will be felt 'beyond the Borderlands themselves'.