FUNDRAISERS from Lauder have been named as the best in Scotland.

The organising committee from the annual Tour de Lauder event were named Fundraising Group of the Year last week.

The Scottish Institute of Fundraising Awards recognises the best fundraising efforts from across the country.

Friends of the late Steve Cully began the Tour de Lauder in 2011.

The memorial race raises funds for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS). And over the past three years has collected over £62,000 for the charity.

Alison Acosta, CHSS fundraising manager said: “We are delighted that the incredible work of the committee has been recognised with this award and send them huge congratulations.

“The Tour de Lauder is a fantastic event and very much a team effort that couldn’t be done without the wonderful support of the local community and businesses.

“We’re so proud of all the work the committee does and grateful for all the support they receive and amazing funds raised.

“All the funds help CHSS continue its work helping those living with chest, heart and stroke illness in the local area and across Scotland.” The Tour de Lauder committee hope to display the award as a thank you to the support of the town’s people.

Gary Kernahan, chair of the Institute of Fundraising Scotland, added: “The judging panel this year were hugely impressed with the quality of nominees.

“In Scotland we have some of the very best fundraisers and these awards prove just that.”