DOZENS of hardy souls braved the torrential rain to take part in the HOPEFUL Steps Walk around Galashiels last Friday.

The low level walk which was jointly organised by Charlotte Jones, Health Improvement Specialist at NHS Borders and Denise Carmichael, (Walk It), Scottish Borders Council was part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

Suicide Prevention is everyone's business, and organisers wanted people to come together to help reduce the stigma around suicide.

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Gala Rugby Club hosted the event are several organisations were present to offer their support and advice.

The walkers left at 2pm and returned to Netherdale for well-deserved refreshments.

Ms Jones said: "We had a great turnout for the Hopeful Steps Walk we held on Friday as part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

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“We wanted people to come together to walk and talk and help reduce the stigma around suicide, so we were pleased to have over 50 people in attendance on the day.

“At the event, we had lots of services available for people to talk to and get support from, such as Survivors of Bereavement of Suicide (SOBS), Quarriers, Andy's Man Club, Samaritans and our NHS Borders Wellbeing Service.

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“If you are looking for more information about suicide prevention, or support for people bereaved by suicide, please visit the NHS Borders Wellbeing Point."