A BORDERS group has received a national accolade.

Earlston Paths Group was recently announced as the winner of the Community Network Group of the Year award, at the TCV Heroes Award 2024.

The announcement was made by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), a national organisation that connects people and communities across the UK through volunteering, with the aim of conserving the environment and bringing nature and green spaces to a wider audience.

TCV, founded in the 1950s and celebrating its 65th anniversary, commended the Paths Group for its "amazing work connecting their community to local green spaces".

It was also praised for creating paths for the community to enjoy and maintain, thereby promoting an active lifestyle and enhancing social connections.

Ian Gibb, Paths Group secretary said: "We were surprised and thrilled when informed about the award.

"It is great to have the work of our group recognised in this way.

"It is significant to receive this special award in TCV’s anniversary year and equally special for us as we are marking 20 years of community volunteering.

"It is not just the Paths Group receiving the award, but is also shared with all the people and businesses in our community who have supported us over the years and indeed continue to do so."

The TCV Heroes Awards are a platform to celebrate volunteers and community partners.

Rebecca Kennelly, TCV CEO, said: "TCV’s Hero Awards are a chance for us to come together and celebrate our amazing volunteers and community partners.

"Our winners for 2024 are brilliant examples of the kinds of volunteers and community groups who have been with TCV over this time.

"It’s just incredible to see the profound impact and ability to change people’s lives positively through groups and individuals giving their passion, time, dedication to volunteering, as well as improving green spaces for nature and local communities."

The Paths Group, along with three other national winners, attended a presentation event at the People’s Postcode Lottery Headquarters in Edinburgh.