A motorcyclist has died after a crash with a tractor in the Scottish Borders.

The 45-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene following the incident on the A72 near Galashiels at around 7.20pm on Monday night.

He had been driving a dark Kawasaki motorbike when it was involved in a collision with a tractor, which was towing a trailer.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone witnessed the crash, which took place on the Cliff Road section of the A72 near the entrance to Caddonlee Farm, Clovenfords.

Sergeant Neil Inglis said: "Tragically another life has been lost in a collision on our roads.

"The next of kin have been informed and we are providing them with support at this difficult time.

"As a result of this incident a stretch of road between Clovenfords and Walkerburn was closed for around ten hours to allow for collision investigation work to be carried out.

"From our enquiries thus far we understand the motorcycle had been travelling on the eastbound carriageway of the A72 before turning north at the Nest roundabout.

"The tractor appears to have been crossing the roadway in order to access a neighbouring field when the collision occurred.

"We're still looking into the full set of circumstances that led up to this incident and today I urge anyone who saw either vehicle prior to the collision itself to come forward if not already done so."

Those with relevant information are asked to contact police on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.