Jahan Cashmere will create up to 60 jobs in Kelso

Jahan Cashmere is set to take over the former Border Electronics site at Pinnaclehill in Kelso.

The move - backed by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Executive - will initially create 20 jobs but could go up to 60 when in full production.

The company said that the Borders' reputation in the industry was a key factor in selecting a UK site.

Hadi Jahanian, of Jahan Cashmere, said the skills available in the region could not be bettered.

We're delighted to see a new inward investment company moving to the Borders and providing valuable new job opportunities for Kelso and the surrounding area Alex Nicol SBC deputy leader

"As we develop our business, we expect to create 60 new jobs over the next five years," he confirmed.

"We also want to establish close links with other cashmere manufacturers in Scotland and build strong ties with the local community."

The move was welcomed by Finance Secretary John Swinney, who was on a visit to the region.

"Jahan Cashmere's plan to create up to 60 new jobs in Kelso is terrific news for the Scottish Borders economy," he said.

"It shows the high regard in which the skills and expertise of the Borders workforce are held in the international textile industry.

"Creating new skilled jobs such as those at Jahan Cashmere will help deliver this government's aim of increased sustainable, economic growth."

Recent redundancies

David Gass, senior director of operations at Scottish Enterprise Borders, said it was "hugely encouraging" to see an international company coming to the area.

He said: "Despite some recent redundancies, the local textiles industry is still a major employer in the region and Jahan Cashmere will play an important role in providing cashmere for the Scottish textile industry."

The company's new facility has been leased to them by Scottish Borders Council, which has carried out extensive internal refurbishments to the factory and major demolition works on the surrounding site.