SCOUTS from Jedburgh are bringing some essential comfort to patients at Borders General Hospital.

Emergency patients at the hospital regularly find themselves without the basics.

And many of their loved ones who also have unexpected sleep-overs aren't always able to bring the basics.

But the Scouts have made sure nobody in the future will be caught out with a donation of comfort bags.

The group fundraised to buy toiletries and items such a toothbrush and comb.

And they packed them up in individual bags for the patients.

Allison Roebuck, who is a clinical audit facilitator at Borders General Hospital as well as Jedburgh Scout Group leader, told us: "This project was started in the Margaret Kerr Unit.

"It was so successful that when Jedburgh Scout Group offered their help with the project it was decided to branch out to all of NHS Borders.

"The group hopes to be able to fundraise enough to supply 500 bags in the first year.

"The roll out will take place over the next few months.

"So whether you’re are an expectant father waiting on your new arrival or a relative of someone very poorly we hope you find our little bags some comfort.”

Further fundraising is now taking place by the scout group.

Jedburgh Scouts are one of 14 Scout groups in the Scottish Borders.

Local development officer Lisa Cowan added: "Our Scout values of integrity, respect, care, belief and cooperation guide everything we do.

"The Jedburgh Scout Group have clearly embraced these values by working with the staff at the BGH to make the lives of those experiencing sudden illness a little easier with the help of their special comfort bags.”

To find out more about how you children and young people can participate in Scouts, or to how to become an adult volunteer, visit the Scottish Borders Scouts website at www.borderscouts.org.uk or email info@borderscouts.org.uk