THE vital work of volunteers in the Borders is about to be celebrated at a special event this week.

And the opportunity to join them in helping charities and organisation will also be on offer at the inaugural Borders Volunteers Fair.

The fair has been initiated by the three Lord-Lieutenants for the region with support from Scottish Borders Council and the Borders Third Sector Interface.

Taking place at Springwood Park in Kelso, the event aims to bring charities and voluntary groups together to share experiences and explore new opportunities, as well as encouraging new volunteers to join their ranks.

The Duke of Buccleuch, who is the Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale, told us: “I and my fellow Lord-Lieutenants, Hew Strachan and Jeanna Swan, are hugely impressed by how much is already being achieved and we want this event to be a chance to celebrate and acknowledge all the wonderful work that happens every day across the Borders.

“But we also know how much more is needed to help people of all ages who are struggling and need support.

"The impulse to be a ‘good neighbour’ is deeply ingrained in most people but the best way of doing so may not be obvious.

"Our fair on Wednesday is about exploring the many different opportunities that are available, so if you can spare the time please come along and bring your friends.”

More than 50 organisations have signed up to showcase their work at the fair.

Amongst them are the Borders Family History Society, Youth Borders, Borders Pet Rescue, Lauder in Bloom and the British Red Cross.

Claire Penny, executive officer at Volunteer Centre Borders, added: “All the organisations attending are deeply committed to what they do, but we need you to lend that all important helping hand which is why we’re inviting everyone to join us at the Borders Event Centre.

"It’s a chance to have an informal chat with a wide range of organisations and find out more, not only about what they offer but also about the benefits that becoming a volunteer can bring.”

The event takes place on Wednesday (September 25) at the Borders Event Centre, Springwood Park in Kelso and will be running from 2pm to 4pm.