A CHARITY shop in Peebles has reopened after a month-long refit.

At a low key event last Thursday, Tweeddale West councillor and general practitioner Drummond Begg celebrated the British Red Cross shop’s first day of trading at Neidpath Road with manager Ronnie Cameron.

Mr Cameron said: “We have a new floor, ceiling and lights and the wall panels have been replaced to comply with the latest fire regulations.

“The building consultant Craig Maddocks is from Peebles and the fitting out was by Ross & Laidlaw.

“We are also up to strength with 14 volunteers.”

Dr Begg said: “What the Red Cross does is based on kindness.

“From its Swiss origins it has always been about doing the right thing and not taking sides.

“Whether in Sudan, Yemen, Gaza, Ukraine or for people in crisis in Scotland, Red Cross volunteers do what they can to help.”

Tracey Pickering, British Red Cross regional retail manager, Scotland and Northern Ireland said: “It’s great to have our Peebles Red Cross Shop back open again, it looks fantastic.

“Our shops provide a real sense of community within towns and cities throughout the UK.

“They are a place where those of all ages can meet new people, learn new skills, and support a global movement via local action.

“Our shops, and others like us, also provide a ‘greener’ alternative on the high street, with people donating unwanted clothes resulting in less landfill waste.

“We’d like to thank the community for its continued support of our shops which raise crucial funds for those in crisis both in the UK and overseas.”