CHILDREN from a local primary school stole the show at a fundraiser for one of the region’s biggest food banks.

The 40-strong choir from Priorsford in Peebles took to the stage during the evening of entertainment at the town’s MacFarlane Hall last Saturday.

They were among a number of musical acts who performed at the Peebles Food Bank fundraiser as it nears its first birthday.

Acting manager and trustee chairman of the Food Bank, the Rev Jim Benton-Evans said: “We raised around £600 and would like to thank all of our supporters and performers and particularly the children from Priorsford - they sang their hearts out.” They were backed by Fringe sell-outs the Fisher Lassies, local rock band The 62, St Peter’s Choir and the Dismal Jibe, a group set up by Mr Benton-Evans himself.

The entertainment was compered by the Rev Ian Gray from Peebles Baptist Church.

“It was a most enjoyable evening and we had a good amount of people here considering we were up against another charity event in the town,“ said Mr Benton-Evans who is the rector of St Peter’s Church, Peebles and St Andrew’s Church, Innerleithen.

Mr Benton-Evans is delighted at the support the Food Bank has received since it was opened in October last year at the Old Bakehouse.

Some have voiced disapproval of the facility, now based at Cavalry Park, saying it is not necessary in Peebles.

But Mr Benton-Evans said: “We continue to feed people at a steady rate. There are three to four crises a week - it’s not massive compared to an inner city but I am proud to say we have helped around 200 people. These people would have gone hungry after being refused help - we are their last resort.

“We have had an extraordinary response from the community - there’s a steady stream of food coming in throughout the year and we never have a problem with supplies.”