ONE of the Borders’ most popular charity walks took place on Sunday, when 44 walkers gathered in damp and overcast conditions at Dryhope in the Yarrow Valley.

The event, first held in 1988, is in memory of the late George Ballantyne of Selkirk, and is organised each year by members of his family, with all funds raised going to Cancer Research UK.

The 22-mile route takes in Traquair, the Minch Moor, along the Southern Upland Way to the Three Brethren, before dropping down to the finish line in Selkirk.

A remarkable milestone was reached on Sunday, with funds raised by the walk over the past 35 years breaking through the £200,000 barrier.

“It’s a tremendous achievement,” said organiser Joyce Wright, a member of the Selkirk Committee of Cancer Research UK.

“It’s all down to the walkers and the volunteers who help on the day, many of whom haven’t missed a year since its inception,” added Joyce, who as well as organising the event each year also takes part in the walk.

“A big thank you goes to Border Buses for transporting the walkers to Dryhope, while Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue always provide safety cover and Selkirk Rotary help with marshalling.

“Many other individuals and organisations support the event in a variety of ways, and the walkers themselves always turn out come rain, hail or shine. We couldn’t do it without the support of all these folk.”

Anyone still wanting to make a donation can do so by following this link to the walk’s JustGiving page: fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/2024-annual-sponsored-walk-selkirk-local-commiittee

The 2024 edition of the event has raised more than £3,000 in donations.