BORDERERS are being encouraged to take part in a sober challenge this month.

Sober October invites people to give up alcohol for the whole month of October – and it's not too late to join.

People can join the challenge for a whole host of reasons – whether it's done for personal health reasons, to challenge yourself, or to help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Dr Sohail Bhatti, director of public health at NHS Borders said: “Abstaining from alcohol for a month or cutting down more overall can have a positive impact on your health.

"Not only will it save you money and potentially go some way to alleviating money worries, but it will also have a huge impact on your energy levels, freeing up more time to do things you love.

“Going sober for the month of October will make it a bit easier to stick to low-risk drinking guidelines in November and the rest of the year.”

According to Macmillan, the benefits of giving up alcogol for a month or more include:

  • Improved sleep
  • Boost in energy
  • Clearer mind
  • A healthier bank balance

If you're not sure what kind of financial impact going sober for October will have, Macmillan have a helpful alcohol calculator which can show you the monthly savings you could be making.

And for those who want to join the challenge, but know they have a special event during October where they want to have a drink, there is a golden ticket for that.

A golden ticket can be bought for a minimum donation of £15 and gives you a night away from the challenge.

Sober October is a fundraising challenge for over 18s only.

After the challenge is over particpants are encouraged to follow drinking guidelines and drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week.

Heavy drinkers and those whoare dependent on alcohol are advised to reach out to their GP before joining the Sober October challenge.

To join the Sober October challenge, visit: www.gosober.org.uk

And for more information on alcohol guidelines and support available, visit NHS Borders' website.