A SELKIRK eyesore has been brightened up by local artists and school pupils.

The Chapel Street/Scotts Place junction building, known most recently as Poets Corner, is expected to be demolished at some point over the next few years.

But, with the assistance of a small grant from Selkirk Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS), the artists and pupils have produced five pieces of artwork, to brighten up the derelict former Co-op store.

And yesterday the paintings were unveiled.

Third year students Dawn-June McGlasson and Marnie Davidson along with fourth year pupil Caitlin Riddell were among a group at the town's High School given a challenge last year by Scottish Borders Council’s Community Learning and Development team to see how they could help make local improvements.

They selected Poets’ Corner at the top of their list.

Over the summer the pupils and artists from WASPS worked together to come up with the scheme.

Councillor Ron Smith, SBC’s Executive Member for Planning and Environment, is delighted with the end produce. He said: “The hard work of these young people and local artists has certainly achieved their aim of brightening up this prominent part of Selkirk.

“There is a degree of uncertainty regarding the future of this building, however the artwork panels are removable, so whatever happens these can be displayed elsewhere when future development of this property does occur.

“This is yet another example of the positive impact the Selkirk CARS programme has had on the town and also highlights the important role that community groups and volunteers have in such a scheme.”

The students are already planning further art projects in the town.