MP Calum Kerr was given some hands-on training in search and rescue work last week.

The Member of Parliament for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk joined the Borders Search and Rescue Unit for an exercise at the head of the Kale Valley.

He was involved with treating a casualty with simulated leg and shoulder injuries after a fall, helped revive a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning (a consequence of using a gas stove in a tent) and he retrieved a casualty from steep and difficult terrain using a stretcher and a system of ropes.

Calum told the Border Telegraph: "I have a passion for the outdoors that my work as a politician usually restricts so it was fantastic to be able to combine the two and get hands on experience of the vital work this team carries out.

"I was really struck by the professionalism of this team - all of whom are volunteers - and how well they prepare for the many different scenarios that they might encounter."

To cap the day off, and to give the politician a sense of what it's like to be on the receiving end of the team's efforts, Calum was packaged in the vacuum-mattress used for victims of spinal injuries, strapped to a stretcher and given a ride across the rough tussocks and peat-hags that characterise this remote corner of the Cheviot foothills.

The Borders Search and Rescue Unit are currently on a fund-raising drive, in the short-term to replace their special customised 4X4 ambulance and in the longer term to build or buy a new base.

More information can be found at www.bordersar.org.uk