Some restaurants and cafés in Peeblesshire have launched delivery services now that many residents are trying to stay at home.

Since the government's plea for people to avoid non-essential travel and social contact, eateries have become noticeably quieter.

But a number of businesses are fighting back by changing the way they operate.

Chip shop owner Mario Ventre said: "At the moment it's pretty hard. I want to start deliveries as quickly as I can."

The 57-year-old, who runs Mario's Fish & Chips, on Peebles high street, is still working on the finer details but hopes to start the new service in the coming weeks.

However, some businesses are already finding their feet with deliveries.

Della's café, also on the high street, has teamed up with Gold Star Taxis to offer meals on wheels.

Café owner Della Murray said: "There are so many people self-isolating and also a large number of elderly in the community who worried about going out.

"We understand this and want to help in any way we can. People can call or text with their order, and if they don’t want to handle cash we can take payment over the phone."

She added: “We know there may be people struggling financially just now and we want to try and help were we would encourage people to contact us confidentially.

"Peebles is a wonderful community and everyone is doing their part to try and work through this difficult time."

In Eddleston, the Horseshoe Inn has created a takeaway menu as well as a ready meal menu, the latter aimed at self-isolating residents and older folk.

Owners Iain and Fiona Dempster say they will do everything they can to help support fellow villagers.

“We have stocked up on extra food staples if anyone goes short,” Mr Dempster said. “We are all in this together and we will support our community during and after these uncertain times.”

Meanwhile, Steve Davies from Caddon View and Café Sitooterie in Innerleithen said: “We are offering a delivery service of hot meals for people who are self-isolating and a takeaway option for those that just want to eat the food.”

Forsyths, of Eastgate, Peebles, is yet another business striving to keep people well fed. The long-standing butcher shop has been loading up a delivery van in the mornings.