BORDERS ambulance staff are in the running for two national awards after adopting new approaches to helping the elderly.

The Scottish Ambulance team based at Borders General Hospital have been shortlisted in both the Integrated Care for Older People and the prestigious Top Team categories at the Scottish Health Awards.

The team, which consists of three specialist paramedics, has been nominated due to the motivation and enthusiasm they have shown in their work on a local frail elderly project.

And their commitment to co-producing improved ambulance care in the Borders has also seen them shortlisted for the Top Team award.

According to the awards organisers, the Borders crews have embraced their projects, whilst working as full time paramedics, and delivered significant results by changing working practices and attitudes to caring for the elderly population in their community.

A spokesperson told us: "The team consistently delivers above and beyond what is asked or expected of them."

There are 17 separate award categories covering every area of healthcare, including the Nurse Award, the Volunteers Award, and the renowned Doctor Award.

The nominees fought off stiff competition to secure their place at this year’s glittering award ceremony on November 2 at the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh.