DISABILITIES come in many forms.

So when a charity in Tweeddale called for budding designers to create a new logo, that’s just the message they wanted to convey.

The Tweeddale Access Panel works to improve access and inclusion for people with disabilities in their local communities.

Adoption of the new logo coincides with publication of the Panel’s new interactive Access Guide for premises in Peebles.

The online guide enables people to search accessible facilities such as restaurants and shops.

After launching a design competition, the organisation awarded the top prize to John Kieran “JK” McCool, with runners up prizes going to Robbie Ferguson and Robbie Gess.

Panel Chairman Paul Nichol said “We felt that our old logo needed refreshing, and JK’s design reflects the fact that there are a variety of types of disability, both seen and unseen, and only a small proportion of disabled people are wheelchair users.

“We consulted people with some expertise in Easy Read documentation and graphic design about any adaptations needed to ensure the logo is clear and accessible when enlarged or reduced, and the final version is now being used on our pop-up banners and business cards.”

Competition entries were invited from both Peebles High School and Borders College, with a view to raising disability awareness among the younger generation.

Vice-chairman Michael Davis said: “The Panel were most impressed with the level of skill shown by all entrants.

"All the prize-winners were Peebles High School pupils at the time of the competition and have gone on to become students at Borders College. Our thanks go to Gill Geddes at the High School for her help in organising the school entries.”