AN inspirational singing group from Newtown St Boswells is raising its voice in a bid to be on song with a funding vote.

One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus has been making sweet music at the village's Community Hall over the past couple of years.

And they are now rehearsing each Wednesday evening for their first national competition, which takes place in Harrogate in October.

But the sopranos and contraltos need to raise funds to pay for for coaching, copyright and costumes.

The group has applied for £2,000 from Scottish Borders Council's Localities Bid Fund - but it is up against 16 other projects vying for a share of £60,000.

Wendy Oliver from One Acchord told us: "We practise most Wednesday nights in Newtown St Boswells and have members from all over the Borders, from Coldstream and Duns to Lauder and Earlston.

"We need to raise money and have had a baking stall in the BGH, a pop-up shop, and we've even done some busking.

"Every penny is appreciated and we'd be grateful if people voted for us."

A public vote is taking place throughout February to decide which community projects get funded.

A spokesman for Scottish Borders Council said: "Using your postcode you will be able to vote for your favourite ideas online, in person at a designated ballot box or by getting a ballot paper sent out and returning it to the council by freepost."

More details about all the projects are available from www.scotborders.gov.uk/LocalitiesBidFund

After the votes are counted the successful bids will be announced in March.