ONE of Scotland’s oldest and most historic inns, famous for its literary connections with the likes of Robert Burns and John Buchan, will reopen its doors to the public after six years. The 400-year-old Crook Inn, in Tweedsmuir, in the Borders, one of the first licensed establishments in Scotland, was closed in 2006 when the owner attempted, unsuccessfully, to convert it into homes.

Following a campaign by locals to keep the pub in its original form, the Tweedsmuir Community Company (TCC) has provisionally agreed to buy the premises and carry out any necessary renovations. However, the community must first raise the £160,000 needed by the end of the year. During this period the TCC will have access to the property to examine it and gain estimates for repair work and apply for funding.