BORDERERS will have a rare opportunity to hear a full symphony orchestra perform this July, with the Somerset Youth Orchestra set to visit.

The last time this happened was in 2015, when the same orchestra visited the Borders and performed to a full house in Hawick.

On that occasion the orchestra wowed the large audience with the standard of their playing and raised a substantial sum of money for Meningitis Research Scotland in the process.

The orchestra are returning to the region this month, with two shows scheduled, and local charities are set to benefit again.

The first performance at the Wilton Church, Hawick, on July 23, will raise funds for Stable of Life, near Ashkirk.

A second performance at Melrose Parish Kirk, on July 25, will see proceeds donated to the nearby Margaret Kerr Unit.

Under the baton of local musician Andy Sherwood, the Orchestra will be performing with members of Borders choirs including The Roxburgh Singers and The Abbey Consort singing The Allelulia Chorus and Zadok The Priest.

The diverse programme will also include Dvorak and some Scottish music including Highland Cathedral for bagpipes and orchestra with pipers Michael Scott and Gus Redburn.

Conductor Andy Sherwood told the Border Telegraph: “The music budget for schools has been cut to shreds.

“The players are from schools throughout the County from age 12 upwards, including a few University students.

“They can only join the orchestra when they have reached a high standard and they work hard to be able to raise the money to come on tour to Scotland.

“I give my life and all my energy to working with young musicians because I believe passionately in the all-round goodness it generates.

“The young musicians gain a huge amount from travelling away from home, the friendships they form and the experience of discovering new places.

“Then there is the experience of joining with Borders Choirs and Pipers to extend the repertoire they will perform together.

“I can assure the audiences they will receive a buzz of energy from hearing and seeing these wonderfully talented young musicians at the same time supporting two very worthwhile local charities.”

Both shows start at 7:30pm, with tickets available on the door and free admission for under-18s.