Mum renews plea for lifebelts on banks of Scottish river following death of son
Last updated 17th Jul 2021
A Borders mum's making a renewed plea for lifebelts to be installed on the banks of the River Tweed in Kelso.
Anne Moriarty, who lives and works in the town, first asked following the death of her son Martin in 2009.
He was just 13-years-old when he drowned, after being pulled under the water by strong currents while swimming with friends at the Cobby - an area down stream from Floors Castle, where the River Tweed meets the River Teviot.
But her request was rejected, and last year, another son, Andrew, was found dead in the water after disappearing during a night out, aged 28.
Anne, who's backing our #GetWaterWise campaign to highlight the dangers of playing near open water, told us: "I tried when Martin died to get lifebelts, particularly where the children go. I felt I really wanted to do something.
"But I was basically told it would take from the aesthetics of the area if they were to put one in - that was the answer I got.
"I felt if it saved just one life it would be worth it. It doesn't matter about the aesthetics, it's a lifebelt."
It's hoped one could be placed on or near each of the road bridges over the Tweed, as well as close to the Cobby.
As I write this, a paddle-boarder is setting off up the river without a life-jacket - despite informing him of my reason for being there.
But Anne doesn't want another family to suffer the same heartache she's been through.
Earlier this year, the community mourned the death of 15-year-old Ellice Murray, who drowned after getting into difficulty while kayaking near Trows Farm Cottages.
"It's the ultimate tragedy, it's the ultimate pain," Anne said, reflecting her own ordeal.
"This river is absolutely beautiful on a day like today, and it draws people in. But there's a darker side, and some people don't realise what goes on underneath that river, when it looks so calm on top."
We've contacted the Scottish Borders Council for a response.