Search begins for biggest conkers

The second Scottish Conkers Championship is taking place in the Borders

The search is on for some of the biggest conkers in Scotland as part of a forest festival in the Borders.

The Tweed Valley event, which starts on 24 October, includes the second edition of the Scottish Conkers Championship.

This year an extra category has been added in which competitors will vie to see who can find the largest nut.

Last year's first national conkers championship was won by 48-year-old Fiona Griggs from Cardrona who saw off 50 rivals including her husband.

I'd urge everyone to join in the fun and get a real taste of the history and culture in this stunning part of the Borders Iain Laidlaw Treefest Partnership

The Tweed Valley Forest Festival - which centres on the town of Peebles - runs from 24 October to 2 November.

It includes the Scottish Conkers Championship on 25 October.

Other events are a wood market, Halloween celebrations, a tree safari and a chance to see horse logging.

Organisers promise a "fantastic 10 days packed with heaps of entertainment and activities".

"Whether you want to just go along and have a look, start your Christmas shopping, or roll your sleeves up and have a go, there will be something for everyone," said Iain Laidlaw of the Treefest Partnership.

"I'd urge everyone to join in the fun and get a real taste of the history and culture in this stunning part of the Borders."