TWO Tweeddale sisters have taken the plunge to raise money for their mum, who has Alzheimers.

Owners of the Caldwell's Ice Cream branch on Peebles High Street, siblings Angela Archibald (47) and Jan Todd (44), abseiled down the Forth Rail Bridge with their friend Jeanette Robertson (50) on Sunday, October 15.

As previously reported in the Peeblesshire News, the trio hoped to raise £500 from their hair-raising stunt, with the proceeds going to Alzheimers Scotland. The charity is close to the hearts of Angela and Jan as their mum, Ann, was diagnosed with Alzheimers at the age of 64 in 2013. However, since the start of this year, Ann's condition has deteriorated rapidly.

Jan said: "The abseil went really well and it was an amazing experience. We still have money coming in for sponsorship but on our last count up between the three of us, we were just a little less than £2,000 which are are absolutely delighted with.

"We chose to do this for our mum who lives with Alzheimers. Each day is a real struggle as the illness progresses for her.

"I know first hand what it is like to care for someone with this horrendous illness. It's tough not only for the person, but also the family who are left to grieve for them as they are no longer the person they knew.

Jan added: "Thank you to the Peeblesshire News for sharing our story in September. The money donated to us has more than doubled after the coverage by the newspaper.

"From the three of us, we would also like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated, we are all very grateful for their generosity."

For more information and to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jan-todd1