OVER 100 hardy music lovers braved the wind and rain of Storm Callum earlier this month to attend a charity concert in the Great Hall at Monteviot.

The event raised over £3,300 to support the work of PATCH (Palliation and the Caring Hospital) at the marvellous venue, very generously made available by Lord Lothian, who also attended.

The event was organised by Ron Hastings, one of the Friends of PATCH in the Borders, and featured a group of talented local performers, including Eryn Rae, Scott Turnbull and Carlenjig.

PATCH is a Scottish charity which works closely with colleagues in NHS Borders, including the Margaret Kerr Unit.

The aim of this work is to develop the skills of nurses working in the Borders General and Community hospitals to deliver quality palliative and end of life care.

In addition, as a joint venture with the Friends of Kelso Community Hospital, the charity has provided a pull-down bed on the wards for use by relatives of seriously ill patients who wish to stay overnight.

Dr Pamela Levack, medical director of PATCH, said: “This was a delightful musical treat and we are very grateful to everyone who attended at this very special venue.

"Good palliative care needs to be available in every hospital – it is something which affects all of us, our family and our friends.

"We appreciate the very impressive contribution made this evening, which will support our work in the Borders.”

In addition to the projects supported in the Borders, PATCH provides funding to other palliative care initiatives and training in hospitals across Scotland.