THE FIRST Police Scotland youth volunteers (PSYV) in the Borders, aged between 14 and 17, have completed a 12-week training programme.

Friends and family of the 23 youngsters joined Superintendent Craig Smith and other guests at their passing out parade in the Volunteer Hall in Galashiels.

Superintendent Smith from the Lothians & Scottish Borders Police Division said: “We were delighted to welcome our first Police Scotland Youth Volunteers in the Scottish Borders last month.

“The event was a great success and many thanks go to Scottish Borders Council, Live Borders, Robertsons of Duns and Kelso Pipe Band for their support and contributions.

“The PSYV programme was developed to strengthen the relationship between young people and the police, while giving young people opportunities to actively support their community and learn valuable skills for their future.

“Already, the recruits have made great progress and will now be volunteering in the community, which includes supporting the upcoming Live Borders Triathlon.

“The volunteers should be very proud of their achievements and efforts so far and I wish them the very best of luck going forward.”