Fire crews bring the fire under control/Pic: Alwyn Johnston

Emergency services were alerted to the blaze on four acres of gorse bushes and heather at about 1630 BST on Thursday.

Fire engines were called out from Melrose, Galashiels, Selkirk, Lauder, Kelso and Hawick.

Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said swirling winds had made the fire unpredictable and it had taken several hours to put out.

"It is very difficult for us logistically because it is such a widespread area," said fire and rescue services group manager David Mallin at the peak of the blaze.

He said the situation had been complicated by the distance firefighters had to travel to reach the fire.

The weather conditions also played a part in making the incident more challenging.

"It started about half past four on the eastern side of the Eildons and the high, warm winds blew it very quickly up onto the summit and down each side," said Mr Mallin.

"The winds have been quite swirly which meant it spread in all directions."

The fire was reported to have been extinguished - but for a few hotspots - by Friday morning.