FOR 15 years, the Parish of Innerleithen, Traquair and Walkerburn has supported the small African village of Thondwe in Malawi.

And this month that support was recognised by Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale MSP Christine Grahame, whose motion in the Scottish Parliament was supported by 16 MSPs.

Ms Grahame’s motion said: “That the parliament recognises the charitable efforts of the Parish of Innerleithen, Traquair and Walkerburn through its Thondwe Community Partnership; notes that this partnership has existed for 15 years, with the parish being twinned with the Church of Central African Presbyterian in Thondwe, Malawi.

“To foster a relationship between the congregations and provide funds for a range of projects in Malawi, including, it understands, cyclone damage repairs such as food to those impacted and the rebuilding of a bridge that 1,000 children use to get to school, installation of lighting in homes, livestock, washable kit for menstrual needs and school supplies.

“Understands that links now also exist between local primary schools and health centres in the respective areas; believes that this partnership represents a good example of local charitable initiatives than can make a real difference, and congratulates all involved on their efforts.”

The motion gained cross-party support including the following MSPs: Jeremy Balfour, Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Stephanie Callaghan, Jackie Dunbar, Annabelle Ewing, Emma Harper, Bill Kidd, Fulton MacGregor, Stuart McMillan, Audrey Nicoll, Alexander Stewart (Registered interest), Kevin Stewart, Paul Sweeney, David Torrance and Evelyn Tweed.

Parish minister, Reverend Fraser Edwards said: “We were delighted to get this recognition in the Scottish Parliament for our special partnership with the community of Thondwe.

“Both communities have benefitted from learning from each other during more than 15 years of hard work.

“We’re really grateful to the local community for the support that has been given which has improved health, education and wellbeing in Malawi.

“ However more than that it has helped our two communities to become good friends as we find common ground in our faith and our hopes for the future.”

Murray Charters from Innerleithen added: “This link is so important.

“Our community raises funds and takes action to help the folks in Thondwe.

“I can only commend this work and urge anyone at all interested to get in touch to find out more.”

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Interested in being involved?

“We would be delighted to hear from anyone in our community interested in our link, particularly education in a Malawi village school and economic development.”