Local resident John Bathgate joined Scottish Conservative councillors Sandy Scott and Scott Hamilton when he was selected as the third Scottish Conservative and Unionist councillor for Jedburgh and St Boswells Ward, in the Jedburgh and District by-election on February 22, 2024.
John has lived and worked in Jedburgh for more than 40 years, during which time he has been heavily involved in the local community as a member of the Red Cross, Jedburgh Community Council, Jedburgh Leisure Trust and chair of the Town Team.
He has also been involved with the Ancrum Astronomy Club, plays both Jethart and Ancrum Hand Ba games, and organises the Glen Douglas monthly Whist Club.
John also helped set up the Crailing Community Orchard and is part of the Scottish Borders Social Enterprise Chamber.