A MOTORIST has been charged with careless driving after damaging a town's historic market cross monument.

The 147-year-old Mercat Cross in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, had several decorative plinth stones knocked out of position following last week's early morning collision and will cost thousands of pounds to repair.

Police Scotland have confirmed a 55-year-old man has been charged with careless driving and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal at Selkirk.

The Mercat Cross plays a major part in the town's annual Braw Lads Gathering ceremonies with the Mixing of the Roses Ceremony but there is no guarantee the repairs will be completed by the big day on Saturday, June 28.