Hyndlee Forest is being turned into a haven for red squirrels

A range of actions have been carried out to improve habitats in the Hyndlee Forest at Bonchester Bridge.

Conservationists hope the area can become a "stronghold" for the red squirrel which is under threat from the non-native grey squirrel.

Hobkirk Primary pupils joined celebrations of completing the work.

New multi-purpose trails and a car park are now in place for visitors.

Wildlife has been boosted with a range of work being undertaken to improve habitats for many species, including salmon and red squirrels.

A wide range of partners have been involved in the project with match funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

'Excellent opportunities'

"I'm very pleased for all the partners and local community who are to benefit from all the hard work that has been put into this project," Jeremy Thompson of the Forestry Commission Scotland said.

"Not only does Hyndlee now boast an environment in which biodiversity can flourish, it provides some excellent opportunities for the community and visitors to enjoy woodland recreation.

"Hyndlee is one of the commission's largest forests in the Borders, even bigger than the whole Tweed Valley Forest Park.

"Despite its size, Hyndlee isn't a forest that too many people have heard of.