SEASONAL gifts made by people given a community payback order will be sold for charity.

The items will be up for grabs at the Bannerfield and Beyond Christmas parade and market.

This will take place at the Philiphaugh Community Centre in Selkirk on November 25 from 3.30pm.

The money raised from the sales will buy meal vouchers for anyone in the community who needs them.

The Justice Services Unpaid Work team coordinates the production of the gifts, along with other projects.

These include creating items like picnic tables, planters, bug boxes, and benches, as well as undertaking tasks such as the upkeep and construction of paths and fences.

They also help community groups with community gardens and allotment sites, and assist in the community's response to weather events like flooding and snow clearing.

All of this work is carried out by individuals who have been given a community payback order with unpaid work by the court.

Councillor Tom Weatherston, portfolio holder for social work and inclusion, said: "Community payback with unpaid work can provide people with routine and structure to their lives and can give them experience of working as part of a team.

"This can help change their behaviour and at the same time pay back a debt to the community.

"Taking part in the Bannerfield Christmas market is just one of the many projects that have been coordinated by Justice Services this year, with the proceeds from any sales going to a worthy cause.

"I would encourage anyone attending to make sure they visit the team’s stand so they can see the quality of work being produced for themselves.

"It’s also an ideal opportunity to have a chat if you have a project you think might be suitable for the unpaid work programme to support, as they are always keen to hear about new opportunities.

"If you’re not able to attend but would like to find out more about how the programme could potentially benefit you or your community, please get in touch with the team directly for more information."