THE SCOTTISH Borders Council are flying the Team South Doddie Aid flag outside Council Headquarters between 28 January and 14 February in honour of the thousands of people across the south of Scotland who are taking part in this year’s Doddie Aid fitness challenge on behalf of My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.

The flag was raised at a ceremony on 28 January where their Convener, Councillor David Parker (and his guide dog Clive) were joined by: Doddie Weir OBE. Doddie's wife Kathy, former Scotland scrum half Gary Armstrong OBE and Councillor Sandy Aitchison.

In a further show of support, the Headquarters Tower will be floodlit each evening in the Foundation’s distinctive blue and yellow colours.

Doddie Aid is a mass participation event involving people in Scotland, the UK and further afield who have all made the commitment to get active in January and early February in support of the Foundation’s aim of finding a cure for Motor Neurone Disease (MND.)

The challenge culminates on Saturday 12 February with the playing of the Doddie Weir Cup when Scotland take on Wales at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff in this year’s Six Nations Championship.

Doddie said: “I want to pay tribute to the thousands of people who have signed up for Doddie Aid and who are raising vital funds towards finding a cure for MND. The south of Scotland has been doing well notching up the miles, getting active and having lots of fun. It is fantastic that both Scottish Borders Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council will be flying a flag in support of Doddie Aid.”

Councillor David Parker, Convener added: “SBC is delighted to show our support for Doddie Aid and in honour of the incredible commitment of those taking part and doing what they can to help the Foundation. A great many Borderers have taken up the challenge which has not only helped us to become fitter and more active, but more importantly is raising much needed funds for this vital cause. We are pleased to be playing our part in recognising their efforts in this way.”

Councillor Sandy Aitchison, Executive Member for Sustainable Development said: “With our neighbours in Dumfries and Galloway Council also flying a flag and lighting a building in support of Doddie Aid, it really is fantastic to see both Councils in the south of Scotland acknowledging the marvellous efforts of those taking part in this incredibly worthwhile fundraising challenge.”