Eddie Anderson, a qualified social worker of 18 years,  has been awarded one of the highest forms of recognition for those in social work jobs for his work with blind and visually impaired people in the Scottish Borders region.

The 47-year old Edinburgh native was commended as "Social Worker of the Year" during awards held by the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) in Scotland. He received his award from the Scottish Children and Early Years minister, Adam Ingram, at a special ceremony in Edinburgh Castle.

Mr Anderson, who now lives in Hawick, was recognised for his work with the Scottish branch of the Royal National Institute of Blind People. For the past 18 years Mr Anderson has worked for RNIB Scotland in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian, otherwise known as the Borders region.

Accepting his award Mr Anderson said that he hoped his award would raise the profile of visually impaired people and of RNIB Scotland. He added that his work had always had a personal aspect, as his father has been registered blind since the age of 15.

"We tend not to pursue careers in social work for rewards other than seeing how we can make a difference to people's lives" said Mr Anderson, "so receiving recognition for my work was a novel but ultimately great experience."

Also in attendance was Adam Ingram, the Scottish Minister for Children and Early Years. In his speech he described social care as "life changing work and one of the most demanding and complex tasks we ask any group to do on our behalf."