A PEEBLES community group has raised more than £2,500 by hosting its first ceilidh night.

Held at the Hydro last weekend, more than 150 locals turned out to show their support for Peebles CAN.

The non-profit organisation has helped run a number of projects in the area, including the community garden in Kingsmeadows Road which has brought together people of all ages.

However, this year the garden experienced financial difficulties.

But volunteers stepped up to lend a hand; manager Amy Alcorn came up with innovative small projects to draw in some funds; and charity Youth Borders came to the rescue to help the group employ an office assistant.

And the latest ceilidh session has racked up £2,520.30.

Ms Alcorn said: "We were overwhelmed by the generosity of local business, our raffle prizes were phenomenal, we couldn’t have asked for more.

"We had such a fun night at the ceilidh, and want to thank everyone who came along and packed out the dancefloor – we will be delighted to host this again next year, making it an annual fundraising event for CAN.

"Peebles CAN wishes to thank the donors of raffle prizes for this event – Crieff Hydro Hotel, Tontine Hotel, Stobo Hotel, McDonald Cardrona Hotel Spa, Windlestraw, Osso, Cringletie Hotel, Dawyck Botanical Gardens, Deirdre Duncan, and Lilliard Distillery.

"Enormous thanks also to Crieff Hydro Hotel for hosting, and to the Drumaw ceilidh band from West Linton – Craig, Ian and Brian – they were brilliant.

"A huge thank you to everyone who attended and who made the evening so enjoyable."

Peebles CAN is also calling on members of the community to get involved.

Its Skill Share project invites people to share their skills and knowledge, on any topic.

The sessions last one hour, they are friendly and informal – often with demonstrations. Refreshments are provided.

Previous skill shares have included recipe swaps, digital skills, composting, willow weaving, chicken care and much more.

The group is also hosting a Christmas craft wreath making class in December, beekeeping in January, and crocheting in February.

For more imformation visit the Facebook page, www.peeblescan.org or contact nichole@peeblescan.org