Borders' coalition deal is hit by 'bust-up'

A COUNCIL coalition has suffered its first fall-out hours after the Tory group leader was accused of pushing an Independent councillor off his chair.

Councillor Dave Paterson has now pulled out of the power-sharing deal between Independents, Scottish Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives in Scottish Borders Council, after the alleged altercation with Carolyn Riddell-Carre, the Tory group leader.

The coalition lasted less than 24 hours before Mr Paterson, a former Scottish amateur boxing champion, made his exit.

Four other Independent councillors have said that they will stick with the deal.

The alleged incident happened during a training seminar at the council's headquarters in Newtown St Boswells

It has resulted in an official complaint being lodged with the council's chief executive.