Local MP John Lamont has welcomed new funding awarded to Borders Water Rescue Team, the organisation which provides support for water based community activities, including common ridings water crossings.
The UK Government funding is part of a £1 million package being awarded to dozens of charities working to keep inland waterways around the country safe, helping with the cost of new equipment to help volunteer search teams save lives more quickly and easily.
Borders Water Rescue Team will receive £18,169 to ensure that it can continue to keep people safe on and around the water. The Team work with the emergency services to provide water based search, rescue and recovery services. The cash will be used to buy a new boat, dry suits and other equipment to help them with their life-saving work.
The scheme was launched in 2014 to provide £5million over five years to independent search and rescue teams working on inland waterways.
Over the past four years, 201 bids have been successful - helping a total of 98 search and rescue charities.
The money has already paid for 65 new boats in addition to launch vehicles, rafts, safety gear, and other costs to support rescue teams.
Commenting, John Lamont MP said: “I am delighted that the Conservatives in government have recognised the fantastic work done by Borders Water Rescue Team.
“This financial support will allow them to continue with their life saving work, not least keeping our riders safe when crossing water at common ridings and festival time.”