In photos: Lauder and Galashiels running clubs get together to see in new year

Each new year, the event, first staged 20 years ago, takes runners from the home of one club to that of the other.

This year, 87 runners from both clubs jogged the 11-mile route from Tweedbank to Lauder along the Southern Upland Way.

Other options were also available, with some runners doing four, six or 22 miles.

The main run began at 10am, with participants taking between one hour and 45 minutes 2:45 minutes to get to the Lauderdale Hotel in Lauder.

Gala Harriers’ Gerry Moss said: “It was an excellent turnout for this year’s January ice-breaker – a great joint effort from Lauderdale Limpers and Gala Harriers, plus a few guests.”

Limpers coach Graeme Sutherland said: “Everyone loves this joint social run for the clubs as they are usually both intent on being in front of each other at competitive events.

“This run allows everyone to reminisce about past events and plan this year’s adventures, as well as trying out their shiny new running gear from Santa.”

This new year’s runners enjoyed clement weather, with mostly firm ground underfoot, making the tough and undulating route more manageable.

Limpers member Dawn Grant, after completing Monday’s 11-mile run, told us: “It was only -2C at the start but there was no wind and wall-to-wall sunshine meant the conditions on the hills felt warmer.”

Double-runner Andy Howett added: “Having got a little lost and run somewhat further than intended the day before, I was quite slow on the return leg, but that has its advantages as it turns out it’s really sociable at the back, great company, great views, great start to the year."

The Galashiels and Lauder clubs are among the largest and longest-standing in the region.

The Harriers host multiple sessions throughout the week on road and track, along with a more relaxed jog on Thursday evenings in Tweedbank’s park and a specialised session for people with disabilities.

The Limpers, having recently celebrated 25 years of existence, meet at the primary school in Lauder on Tuesday evenings and additionally hold regular Thursday night trail runs, monthly Sunday morning breakfast runs and sessions for beginners.