Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) has elected Simon Mountford to succeed Ray Licence as chairman.

Borders architect Ray is retiring after completing his five year term of office.

Commenting on his time at SBHA, Ray said: “I’m delighted to have been part of SBHA for the last eight years. During my time as chairman I have seen SBHA complete a major investment programme to bring SBHA homes to the Scottish Housing Quality Standard, tackle the issue of difficult to let housing stock, and embark on its first programme of building homes.

“I’m particularly proud of the work at Rutherford Square in Kelso and Stonefield in Hawick. We have forged strong partnerships across both the public and private sectors during my time as Chair and I look forward to seeing greater progress in the coming years. I welcome the appointment of Simon as my successor and wish him well in his new role.”

Simon joined the board of SBHA in 2012 as a Scottish Borders Council nominee board member. He was subsequently elected to be a vice-chairman of the Association.

Commenting on his new role, Simon added: “SBHA is one of the largest housing associations in Scotland and it is an honour to be chosen as its chairman. I am very excited at the prospect and look forward immensely to helping the Association to become the go-to organisation for housing solutions in the South of Scotland.

“Our 6,000 tenants are at the heart of what we do and we want to provide them with high quality accommodation in safe and attractive neighbourhoods.”