STAFF from one of the region's largest social landlords have branched out into horse homes.

Last week five members of the Eildon Housing Association team spent a day volunteering at the Ashkirk-based charity, Stable Life.

The service was part of Eildon's Make a Difference programme.

And saw the staff whitewash and paint their way through a stable and four different stalls.

Irene Wielbo, who was one of the volunteers, told us: “We felt that we achieved a lot in the time given and Stable Life”said that they were thrilled that the whole shed had been given a makeover.

" Speaking on behalf of the group, we all really enjoyed the experience and were glad to be of help to such a deserving charity.”

Stable Life provides a safe, nurturing and learning experience using the horse and its environment to help young people reach their full potential.

They support vulnerable young people, aged from10 years up to18 who may be experiencing social, emotional or behavioural issues.

On arrival last Monday, the Eildon staff were handed pots of paint and brushes and given their mission - to white-wash a wall of one of the stables.

They were given a 3pm deadline to complete their task.

But the brush-stroking volunteers has completed their task within half an hour.

They went on to paint two stalls before running out of paint.

And after a quick trip for more paint, they finished a further two in the afternoon.

Nicola Glendinning, operations manager at Stable Life said: “The ‘Eildon A  team worked so hard all day with good cheer, humour and  determination and despite a very dreich, damp and dismal day their efforts brightened up our shed.

"This hands-on support is very much appreciated by us all at Stable Life.”

The Stable Life makeover is just the latest in a long line of community initiatives undertaken by the Selkirk-based housing provider.

Eildon’s Chief Executive, Nile Istephan added: "Eildon staff have a great track record in raising money for good causes through a range of activities and this year we have decided to trial a new initiative Eildon Makes a Difference, which is a voluntary scheme enabling staff to spend a normal half day at work each year volunteering rather than undertaking their normal activities.”