NHS BORDERS has cancelled all scheduled routine operations for a further two weeks.

The health board says it continues to face "significant pressure" and there is "still a very high demand" for in-patient beds.

As previously reported, routine procedures were initially cancelled on August 11.

But the period has now been extended to cover between August 23 and September 5.

All urgent, cancer and emergency surgeries will continue during this time.

An NHS Borders spokesperson said: "We continue to face significant pressure in the Borders General Hospital and across the wider health system.

"There is still a very high demand for in-patient beds, including rising numbers of patients who are being admitted with COVID-19.

"As a result we have taken the difficult decision to cancel all scheduled routine operations for a further two weeks (August 23-September 5). Affected patients are being contacted directly.

"Taking this decision is not easy but it is necessary to make sure that we are able to continue vital services during this challenging time.

"We are truly sorry to those that this decision affects. However we hope that you understand that patient and staff safety is our top priority, including providing the highest quality of care and support.

"We can assure you that the situation remains under constant review.

"All urgent, cancer and emergency surgeries will continue during this time.

"We are currently reviewing our Outpatient appointment lists to identify if we need to reduce some of this activity. It is important to note that this is currently being reviewed, please continue to attend your appointment unless you are contacted by a member of our team – we will contact anyone affected directly.

"Our incredible staff continue to work tirelessly to treat the patients in their care across all our services and we are immensely grateful to them. Please continue to treat them with the respect they deserve.

"It remains crucial, especially with rises in COVID-19 admissions and the continued easing of restrictions, that we all continue to be responsible and follow the rules that are in place in order to protect each other and our local health and social care services.

"Please remember that COVID-19 is still circulating, it is highly transmissible and continues to pose a threat to us all. What we are seeing is a serious reminder that COVID-19 can, and is, affecting people of any age, so please protect yourself and your loved ones by coming forward to get vaccinated.

"This also includes coming forward when it is time for your second dose to ensure that you have greater protection against COVID-19."