THE brand new Lauder Health Centre was officially opened today by The Hon. Gerald Maitland-Carew, Lord Lieutenant of Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale.

Invited guests include GPs and Practice staff, past and present, representatives from Lauderdale and Oxton & Channelkirk Community Councils, and the Leader of Scottish Borders Council.

Also in attendance will be pupils from Channelkirk Primary School who will be presenting the Practice with a handmade mosaic artwork, created by the eleven members of the school’s Health Committee as part of a project to promote mental and physical health and well being.

Located on Crofts Road in Lauder, the new centre replaces the previous facilities in the Factors Park and Memorial Medical Centres. Having opened for business on Monday August 19th this year the purpose built facility hosts 4 GPs, Practice Staff, Community Nurses, a Health Visitor, School Nurse and Doing Well Advisor.

The Hon. Gerald Maitland-Carew said: “It is a great privilege to be asked to formally open the new Lauder Health Centre. There has been significant involvement from the local communities in the project to build this wonderful facility, and today is an opportunity to celebrate this achievement.” John Raine, Chair of NHS Borders said: “I am delighted that the new Health Centre has been so well received by the Lauderdale community. The development of accessible local health services that enable people to receive the treatment they require as close to home as possible is a key element of the Board’s strategy. Lauder Health Centre is an excellent example of this aspiration.”