Many thanks for your comments Maureen, they are appreciated and pleased you enjoyed your stay with us at Kirklands, Melrose - Douglas

Firstly, this was my fault (and have always believed to own up and accept the consequences for mistakes). Having investigated the circumstances I discovered that the cottage had been double booked (nothing to do with B&B). In mitigation I explained to the the guests that some 5 months ago I was diagnosed with cancer which was a complete shock to me and went through chemotherapy and have just finished a course of radio therapy. It was at a particularly sensitive time that the booking came in and I omitted to put it in our diary. During the time it was discovered I had a pulmonary embolism which had to be addressed prior to the chemotherapy being finalised. I considered cancelling all bookings but decided (having taken advice from the medics that I should be fit enough) not to inconvenience the other booked guests, maybe, in hind sight, the wrong decision, certainly in these guests case. I looked at various other local providers (when the guests arrived) but no other accommodation was available that I could find. Yes, I took my eye off the ball for which I unreservedly apologise - it is the first time in 25 years of having self catering properties this has happened in this manner. We all make mistakes, a human trait which I am included and this mistake should not have happened and it upset me considerably. I understand that alternative accommodation was sourced locally by the guest which I was pleased to hear and a full refund will be paid. Once again my sincere apologies.

Many thanks for your comments, much appreciated.

Many thanks for your comments, much appreciated. I hope the return journey was uneventful, having taken in at least half a dozen houses and castles!! (-: