ARTWORK created at a complex needs centre in Galashiels has helped raise more than £31,000.

Artists Phil Halstead and Julie Mains work closely with many of the service users to plan, design and create the artworks.

And four of the main pieces from the past 12 months - Newspaper Man, See Me, Come Together and Lives Interwined - were recently auctioned at the annual Cornerstone dinner in Aberdeen.

Since the first event in 2004, the Cornerstone annual dinner has become a firm fixture in the North-East social calendar.

The popular black tie event has raised a large sum of money each year, which has helped to transform the lives of many people with disabilities.

This year’s event was sponsored by BP and CNR international, with all proceeds going directly towards the development of Cornerstone Connects. Cornerstone Connects provides a wide range of stimulating and inclusive activities for people with dementia, disabilities and other complex support needs.

Cornerstone chief executive Edel Harris said: “The Cornerstone annual dinner was, once again, a great success.

"Thanks to our very generous guests, we have raised a remarkable amount of money.

"I'd like to say a special thank you to our sponsors, BP and CNR International – because of their generosity, every penny raised will go directly towards making a real difference to the lives of the people we support."

All of the Galashiels artworks sold during the charity auction, with Blair Thomson from the Northwood Charitable Trust snapping up Newspaper Man for £1,300.

It is believed the sculpture will go on display at DC Thomson’s refurbished Dundee City Centre office, which is currently under renovation.

Aileen Knox from Cornerstone Connects in Galashiels told us: "We're over the moon at how successful the auction was.

"It was also an opportunity to showcase the wonderful work that the people we support have made."

All of the artwork created at Cornerstone Connects on Melrose Road uses recycled materials, such as wallpaper sample books, CDs, old newspapers and fabrics.

And the pieces can take up to four months from the planning stages to its display-ready completion.

Phil added: "Everyone has to learn about how to create each section, such as layering and sticking down the various materials, and also how the sections will work together.

"Whatever we can recycle we will use, and we are grateful for the donations we get of materials.

"We are always needing more, so if anyone has spare lollipop sticks or bottle tops, we are on the lookout just now for them to help with the artworks we are planning."

To donate recyclable materials for the art projects contact Aileen on 01896 750308.