SUPPORT is growing for Peebles Scouts as they prepare to move into their new hut.

Work has been ongoing on the replacement facility since February.

But part of the required £123,000 cost involved with the demolition of the former hut and building of the replacement building included borrowing £50,000 from the Scout Association.

And leaders are hoping to eat into the loan over the coming months as they prepare to move in.

This week Liane Cox from Port Brae Wealth Management handed over a cheque for £300 to cub leader Mike Jones during the Wednesday pack's sausage sizzle.

The donation comes from the St James Place Wealth Management’s charitable foundation.

Peebles Scouts treasurer Susan Brown told us: “We are now fundraising to reduce the value of our £50,000 loan.

"This donation is a most welcome contribution to our Final Fifty campaign.

"It is crucial that the Peebles Scout Group achieve the repayment of the loan as soon as possible.”

Peebles Scout Group has over 120 members spread across five different sections.

The former Scout Hut dated back to 1911 and was not fit for purpose.

The Group raised an incredible £73,000 over 15 years for a replacement hut from collections and events as well as grants and corporate funding from the Robertson Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Gordon Fraser Trust, SBC Community Grant, Common Good Fund, March Brown Trust and Stobo Castle Spa.

Local firm Renwick and Weir are the lead contractor in the project, working with local sub contractors.

As part of the Final Fifty campaign to repay the loan, the Group is offering the opportunity for supporters to buy a 'virtual brick' in the building.

And leaders are also inviting businesses who would like to pledge sponsorship to get in touch.

Susan added: "The Group would love to hear from any local businesses who may be interested in pledging some sponsorship towards the new building.

"We recently appealed for new leaders, and are pleased to have had a positive response, but opportunities to get involved with the group still exist."

To buy a virtual brick visit https://mydonate.bt.com/events/peeblesscoutsbricks/304353 and any business who would like to support the Final Fifty Campaign should contact Susan on 01721 721175.