NHS Borders has cancelled routine operations for a further three weeks.

The health board made the announcement this afternoon (Thursday, September 23), saying it was "truly sorry".

A spokesperson for NHS Borders 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 patients with COVID-19.

"As a result we have taken the difficult decision to cancel all scheduled routine operations for a further three weeks (September 27 – October 17).

"Affected patients are being contacted directly. All cancer and emergency surgeries will continue during this time.

"We are truly sorry to those that this decision affects.

"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."