Scottish Borders storm grant support approaches £700,000

Almost £700,000 has been awarded to homeowners, businesses and other groups hit by severe weather in the Borders.

Storms Desmond, Eva, Frank and Gertrude all caused major issues in the area, as did an unnamed storm on 27 January.

Towns including Hawick, Jedburgh, Newcastleton and Peebles were affected.

A grant scheme opened on 15 January and it has processed more than 300 applications totalling £685,647. It remains open until 22 April through Scottish Borders Council .(SBC).

Funding is available to assist those affected to reinstate their property and protect it from future flooding.

'Back to normality'

The flat rate grant is £1,500, with an additional £3,000 available for businesses severely impacted by flooding which affected their ability to trade.

These amounts can be increased in individual cases.

SBC leader David Parker said: "It is pleasing to see a wide range of individuals and groups across the region receive these grants to help them get back to normality after being impacted by flooding.

"I would encourage anyone eligible to make a flood grant application to do so before the 22 April deadline.

"The council has attempted to make the scheme as simple as possible and sought to distribute funds promptly once applications are received."