Galashiels Community Council has entered a new phase, with local business owner and community advocate Angela Crow stepping into the role of chair.
Angela, best known as the founder of Hike & Bike, was formally welcomed into the position during the council’s meeting earlier this month. She takes over from long serving chair Judith Cleghorn, who stepped down in February after years of dedicated service to the town.
Speaking following her appointment, Angela acknowledged the legacy she is stepping into, noting the significant contribution Judith has made not only to the community council but to Galashiels more widely. On behalf of the council, she also extended thanks to all outgoing members for their time and commitment.
Looking ahead, the focus is firmly on strengthening connections across the town. The community council plans to continue working closely with local organisations including the town team, BID for Galashiels and Energise Galashiels Trust, partnerships that are seen as key to driving positive change.
Improving communication is also high on the agenda. Plans are underway to launch both a website and a Facebook page, helping residents stay informed and engaged with what is happening locally.
Angela brings recent experience of collaborative working through her involvement in the town’s 2028 Town of Culture bid, something she believes highlights what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared goal. That same spirit of collaboration is expected to shape the council’s direction moving forward.
As part of this fresh start, the community council will also introduce a new logo aligned with the wider town branding, complete with a distinctive splash of pink agreed at the recent meeting.
Alongside Angela, a mix of familiar and new faces make up the current council team, all bringing a shared interest in supporting and representing the people of Galashiels.
Community council meetings remain open to the public and take place in the Burgh Chambers at 6.30pm on the first Wednesday of each month, an opportunity for residents to have their say and stay connected with local decision making.
*Community Councils are recognised groups of local people who represent their community, operating under a formal scheme set by the local authority.
