A SELKIRK-based fiddle group has been awarded funding from a Trust in memory of a Scottish girl killed in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack.

Eilidh MacLeod from Barra was one of the 22 people killed at the Ariana Grande concert in 2017.

The 14-year-old had been passionate about traditional music and played bagpipes with the Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band.

A charitable trust was set up in Eilidh's memory with proceeds going towards youth music projects across the country.

This week a total of £12,000 was awarded to 13 groups in the inaugural round of funding from the Eilidh MacLeod Memorial Trust.

And included in the beneficiaries is Selkirk's Riddell Fiddles who will receive £750.

Annag MacLean, trustee of Eilidh’s Trust and former headteacher of Barra’s Castlebay Community School, told us: “We are delighted and thrilled to announce the first full funding round of grants for local community music groups across Scotland.

"This support will contribute to the excellent work they are doing to encourage and nurture the local talent among young musicians and will allow them to continue developing their skills.

“These grants are a demonstration of our commitment and intent to support young musicians in their ambitions in Eilidh’s memory.

"This financial support could only be made possible through the huge generosity of the many people who have donated to our fundraising efforts and the organisations who have supported our work.”

As well as supporting music education for young people, to reflect Eilidh’s own musical ability and enjoyment as a piper, the trust also manages and maintains a permanent memorial to Eilidh and a garden of remembrance and reflection on Barra.

It is hoped that a further round of funding will be made in the first half of 2020.

Any groups that wish to be considered for support should contact Eilidh’s Trust at hello@eilidhstrust.org.uk