A HIGHLY successful disabled swimming group in the Borders has sent out an SOS for volunteers.

The Dippers is a fun and friendly swim team for people with physical challenges.

It also provides respite for families and carers.

Members from all over the Borders enjoy swimming sessions each week.

But the charity, which has been running for 27 years, is in desperate need of helpers.

Morag Sharp, vice-convenor of The Dippers, told us: "We provide people with physical challenges and their families a change in their daily routines and to give carers a break from the demands of their role.

"We are looking for drivers for a Wednesday, who can drive our members from their home in Galashiels, Earlston and Coldstream to Kelso Swimming Pool then onto local café for lunch and a local food store then return them home.

"We also require a pool helper for Laidlaw Memorial Swimming Pool in Jedburgh on Mondays for approximately one-and-a-half hours."

The Kelso Pool run takes around five hours each Wednesday.

The volunteer is entitled to expenses for lunch and mileage at 35 pence per mile - but they must have their own four door car, a licence with no more than six penalty points, comprehensive insurance, and a current PVG certificate.

The Jedburgh pool volunteer, who will also be reimbursed for expenses, has to be able to guide the non-swimmers to exercise in the water and encourage the able swimmers.

And they also have to be able to aid with dressing and undressing and with personal hygiene, where required.

Morag added: "The Dippers owes its success to volunteers who without them they could not continue.

"We have been a group for 27 years but without new volunteers will have to be dissolved."

If you are interested in volunteering for either of these positions contact Morag on 01896 849235.