A BORDERS-based support worker who helps those with drug and alcohol addictions will meet the Queen next month after receiving a special nomination.

Rod Anderson, a project worker at Addaction in Galashiels will attend the opening of the Scottish Parliament on July 2, as Christine Grahame's choice of Local Hero.

All 129 MSPs were asked to select one of their constituents in recognition of the important work they do to help others in the community.

Christine Grahame said: “The person who nominated Rod wrote a very touching email to me describing how Rod had saved her life and the lives of many people who are battling alcohol or drug addiction.”

The nomination told how Rod performs miracles every day and has set up a recovery community in the Borders, which is giving people hope that they can overcome addiction and can start on the path to recovery.

After overcoming his own battle with alcohol using the support of Addaction, Rod has dedicated himself to saving lives and became a substance misuse worker. The nomination added that he is a selfless, unassuming man who helps people get their lives back together.

Ms Graham added: “I was absolutely delighted to receive so many nominations from throughout the constituency in my search for a Local Hero. There was a real wide range of candidates and it wasn’t an easy decision to make but Rod came out on top because of his own struggle with addiction and the fact he is now giving something back to those who are also in difficulty.”

On Saturday, July 2 all Local Heroes will be invited to Holyrood as part of the Scottish Parliament’s Opening Ceremony to mark the start of a new parliamentary session.

The day’s events will include Her Majesty The Queen addressing MSPs in the Chamber and the Local Heroes nominees taking part in the Riding procession down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.