IT has become one of the most recognisable races in the Borders.

And yet again the orange-topped athletes will be raising vital funds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society Borders group.

On Sunday, September 1 the 16th Borders MS Fun Run will get underway at Priorwood House in Melrose.

And yet again the 5km run will be sponsored by JS Crawford developers.

Judy Eglington from the MS Society Borders group told us: "The fun run will once again raise money so that we can provide very beneficial therapies for people affected by MS in the Borders.

"These therapies help people affected by MS to retain some independence and sense of well being."

Among the services provided for MS sufferers are hydrotherapy, power-plate sessions, yoga classes, physiotherapy, remedial massage, aromatherapy and reflexology.

But it all comes at a cost.

Judy added: "Our hydrotherapy is particularly beneficial to people with MS who have very limited mobility as they are able to walk-in the pool something they are unable to do on dry land.

"The annual cost of the therapies are approximately £42,000 so the group is delighted with the huge amount of support that they receive from people in the Borders.

"The group also provides emotional and practical support including accessing grants."

The Borders MS Fun Run is open to everyone and is both wheelchair and dog friendly.

This year's runners will come under starter's orders at noon on September 1.

Further information and entry forms are available from www.jscrawford.co.uk

Anyone affected by MS can get further information on MS Society Borders group at borders@mssociety.org.uk