We should never take for granted the positive role that volunteers play in our communities.
I have a huge amount of admiration for everyone across the Borders who selflessly gives up their time to help others.
Their contribution can range from supporting local causes to helping the most vulnerable to creating awareness about medical conditions.
They are a vital part of society. Without them, some local services would not be able to function.
Yet, they are also often unsung heroes. Volunteers don’t get the credit they deserve.
That’s why this year, I started a Scottish Borders Volunteer of the Year award.
I am delighted to recognise just some of the wonderful people in the Scottish Borders who give up their own time.
Their dedication, hard work and commitment is incredible. Their efforts keep many local organisations running. They provide amazing levels of support to make other people’s lives a little better.
We received several dozen nominations and whittled those down to a shortlist of the most worthy winners.
One award went to Madge Thomson from Hawick, who helps survivors of abuse as part of the Borders Women’s Aid team. She has helped so many women find a better life.
Another winner was Megan Bilsland from Galashiels, who does inspirational work with Downs Syndrome Scotland and Interest Link Borders, a charity helping people with learning disabilities to make friends.
Alan Foster from Greenlaw was another competition winner this year. Alan is the backbone of Greenlaw FC, doing everything from fundraising to marking the pitch and washing the strips.
I also gave an award to Audrey Triebel from Kelso, who saved Little Explorers from closure and now volunteers her time to run the nursery. From special birthday celebrations to dressing up as the Easter Bunny, Audrey puts her all into entertaining the children.
Our last award this year went to Graham Easton from Selkirk. He has tirelessly helped so many local organisations from the Royal British Legion to Selkirk Rotary Club to the group he founded himself, Cycling Without Age.
It was a pleasure to meet all of these kind, considerate and generous volunteers recently and hear about the amazing work they do.
To each winner, and to all the other volunteers across the Borders who dedicate their time to helping others, thank you. Your contribution is highly valued and we all greatly appreciate what you do for the Borders.
