A GROUP which has raised around half a million pounds for the Borders General Hospital has warned it may have to fold, unless it can find more volunteers.

The Friends of the BGH has made major contributions to campaigns for the expansion of the Macmillan Centre and the creation of the Margaret Kerr Unit, over the past 16 years.

It has also helped pay for facilities for patients and their families, such as fitting out two rooms for relatives who need to stay overnight.

But now the group is looking for the help of more volunteers, after it's membership has reduced in recent years.

A spokesperson for the group said: "The Friends have received generous legacies and donations from members of the public. 

"Numerous keep fit enthusiasts have raised sponsorship through taking part in the Great North Run, and there have been golfing tournaments, fashion shows, abseil and treadmill events and race days; which have all provided entertainment while raising much needed funds.

"In all this the Friends have had the warm support of people from throughout the Borders, for which they are extremely grateful," she added.

"The Friends is a charity and its work has been led by a small but committed group of volunteers. 

"But this group has shrunk in recent years and due to poor health, increasing age and the other commitments of its members, and it now finds itself at a turning point. 

"Unless new volunteers can be found, willing to take an active role in the fundraising events or on the Committee, the Friends, with great regret, must consider winding up their work."

The group has called a meeting at the Ormiston Rooms in Melrose on Tuesday, November 8 at 5pm, for people to find out more about the charity.

If you are interested in helping, but can't make the meeting please call Sandra Henwood, Secretary of the Friends, on 01896 826564.