Businesses in the Borders can now seek funding and advice from the South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) agency.

The organisation, which was launched today (April 1), hopes to boost the economy of the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway.

But the immediate aim is to offer help through the coronavirus pandemic, according to the SOSE chairman.

Professor Russel Griggs said: "We need to recognise the severity of the situation for many and we also need to look ahead to supporting the recovery."

The board has 10 members, plus Prof Griggs and chief executive Nick Halfhide.

Two virtual meetings have already been held and it has subsequently been decided that the agency will work closely with Scottish Borders Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council during the virus crisis.

Prof Griggs said: “In order to support our region, it is absolutely vital that we work as one collective voice for the South of Scotland alongside both councils to support this response in any way we can, and in a way that best serves the needs of communities and businesses across the region.

“As part of that, we need to fully understand how best we can align our resources to help complement and potentially add to the local and national support packages already in place in a way that supports the unique challenges of the South.

"We have already had very productive discussions with both councils and continue to work with them as well as other partners to develop plans around where we can potentially add to support and resources during this extremely difficult time.”

Mr Halfhide said it was "a really upsetting" time for everybody, but the SOSE would be committed to delivering what is needed.

Meanwhile, the Scottish minister for the rural economy Fergus Ewing praised the team at the helm of the SOSE, suggesting they were up to the challenges they face.

He said: “With a firm focus on the specific needs and circumstances of the south, I know that South of Scotland Enterprise will work with pace and purpose to support economic resilience and recovery, unlock the region’s full economic potential, and make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives.”

The SOSE website is accessible at: www.southofscotlandenterprise.com