An off-duty policeman has died after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a car in the Scottish Borders.

PC Rhys Prentice, 24, who was stationed in East Lothian, died at the scene on the A7 just north of Galashiels.

His Yamaha R6 was involved in a collision with a silver Peugot 107 at about 12:25 on Sunday.

Two people in the Peugeot were seriously injured.

The road was shut for about eight hours while emergency services attended the scene and carried out a collision investigation.

Tributes have been paid to the police officer.

In a statement issued through Police Scotland Mr Prentice's family said: "We are absolutely devastated at the loss of Rhys - our much loved son, brother, fiancé and friend.

"Rhys was an enthusiastic biker and a dedicated police officer.

"He made us all very proud and words cannot describe how much we will miss him."

Ch Supt Lesley Clark said it was a "sad day" for the Lothians and Scottish Borders Division with the loss of a "young and enthusiastic officer".

"Rhys was stationed in East Lothian and will be sadly missed," she said.

"He was a popular and devoted officer and support is being given to his colleagues.

"Rhys' parents and fiancée were exceptionally proud of his chosen career and our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this tragic time."

Sgt Ross Drummond said: "This incident has tragically resulted in the death of a young man and a colleague.

"Our inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision and anyone who was on the road at the time and witnessed what happened, is urged to contact police."