Madge Elliot obituary
- Madge Elliot played a crucial role in the campaign to save the Waverley route between Edinburgh and Carlisle from closure in the 1960s.
- Her dedication and efforts were instrumental in preserving this important transportation link between the two cities.
- Elliot's legacy will be remembered for her advocacy and commitment to protecting the Waverley route.
Madge Elliot, a prominent railway campaigner and local activist from Hawick, Scotland, has passed away at the age of 95 after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Known for her unwavering commitment to her community, Madge spearheaded a significant petition in November 1968 against the withdrawal of passenger services, garnering 11,678 signatures in just 25 days. Despite the closure of the line in January 1969, her advocacy for restoring rail services in the Borders persisted, culminating in the successful opening of the Borders Railway in September 2015. Born in Hawick to hosiery workers Rebecca and George Robson, Madge's early education took place at local schools before she began her career in secretarial work. After marrying Bob Elliot in 1952, she dedicated herself to homemaking and raising their two sons, Sean and the author of this tribute. Madge and Bob, both qualified tennis coaches, played a pivotal role in nurturing young talent at the local tennis club, organizing matches and competitions that inspired many players to achieve success at various levels. A lifelong socialist, Madge was deeply involved in numerous local organizations, consistently advocating for justice and community welfare. Her tenacity and dedication to Hawick were evident in her railway campaign, which remains a testament to her enduring spirit. Madge is survived by her two sons, four grandsons, and four great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of activism and community service.