STAFF at Borders General Hospital (BGH) were treated to a birthday cake, card and free ice cream to celebrate the NHS’s 75th birthday.

Founded on July 5, 1948, the health service has changed a lot in the last 75 years and has been at the heart of medical innovation.

To celebrate the major milestone, UNISON Scottish Borders (UNISON SB) hosted an event on Saturday outside the Borders General Hospital (BGH).

The union had a special birthday cake and an ice cream van came along to help NHS staff celebrate with free treats.

Karen Lawrie, UNISON SB’s health lead rep, said: “Staff really appreciated the ice creams.

“It was wonderful to give something back to staff who have worked through COVID and as they continue to struggle under immense pressure.”

Birthday wishes for the NHS were collected on post cards which will be delivered to Scottish Health Minister Michael Matheson.

Kaymarie Hughes, UNISON SB branch secretary, said: “We felt it’s important at this milestone birthday to collect the views of the staff and the public in the Borders so we can share their wishes for the NHS.

“Common themes were to increase staffing, pay better and to increase funding to allow the NHS to thrive.”

UNISON SB was also joined by Scottish Borders Labour who asked staff for their views on what should be prioritised by the Scottish Government.

Labour promised to pass staff’s views on to Colin Smyth MSP and Carol Mochan MSP.