David Scott, chairman of Selkirk Sessions

Being involved in our new traditional music festival which is held in October I'm obviously disappointed that the number of potential venues has been cut.
More than that, however, is the bad impression given to visitors by empty pubs, which, for historical reasons, tend to be in prime locations. The aim of the sessions apart from the music is to bring business to the town.
But if there is nowhere for people to go, we could be fighting a losing battle. A vibrant music festival depends on a vibrant town.


Margaret Hart, shop manager

To be honest I don't go out to pubs much since the smoking ban was introduced.
Of course, all these empty licensed presises are bad for the town centre. There's no atmosphere in the evenings and it means less choice for tourists.
I think the pub chains are ruining the trade and I hate to think what will happen when thousands come to Selkirk for the Common Riding.


Allan Fox, co-manager of Morrison's bookmakers.

I think the pub as we know it has had its day and I just don't go to them anymore.
I smoke and am not prepared to stand outside like a leper. In any case the cost of drink in supermarkets is so cheap, pubs just cannot compete.
I'm sure the large brewery chains could do more to keep pubs open and, as a rule of thumb, I think any business is better run when it is local.


Louise Stephens, manageress of the Town Arms

The pub is an important institution in any community and of course it's sad to see them fail.
I guess we will get extra business as a result of the latest closure, but that's not the point. People should have choice and that is being removed and I know many people leave the town to have pub lunches.
I have no doubt the fault lies with the Government which allows supermarkets to sell alcohol at ridiculously low prices while pubs have no choice but to pass on tax increases to customers.


Norman Bowman, social drinker

I like an occasional pint at the Town Arms which is fortunate given the spate of closures
To be honest I'm rather ambivalent because I have always thought Selkirk had too many pubs. I was quite amazed when The Place opened a few years ago.
You cannot argue with market forces and if the money is not there then pubs, like any other business, will pay the price.
What is unfortunate is that the Cross Keys catered latterly for young people. I don't know where they will go now.


Ella Kemp, pensioner

I think it's an awful shame because I remember when the pubs in Selkirk will really buzzing and catered for all age groups.The Fleece, especially, has a special place in the hearts of many older people as a place to go at the Common Riding.
Men still like somewhere to meet for a pint and a blether rather than drinking at home so they will lose out.
I'm sorry to hear about the Cross Keys but what can you expect when it's owned by a huge pub chain? The pub would have to very busy just to pay the rent.