THE fundraising efforts of a Fishcross couple will enable local children to go on an adventure holiday.

Andrew and Kirsten Huggan took on the arduous task of trekking the West Highland Way for Hawkhill Community Centre.

They ended up covering more than 100 miles in all kinds of weather – even battling through a blizzard – during the charity challenge.

Andrew said: "I would say it was hard work but well worth it.

"It was kind of inspirational – I didn't think I would be able to do something as challenging as this but I can."

The husband and wife team were motivated to help the Alloa centre to allow it to continue with its good work.

They are long-term supporters, and try to give donations when they can, and thought that if they were going to take on an adventure, they would raise money at the same time.

Walking across the space of eight days, some of the highlights of the trip included the beautiful scenery and meeting new people.

The donations that rolled in throughout its duration kept them going and they updated friends, family and supporters with a designated Facebook page.

Andrew said: "I just want to say thank you to absolutely everybody that made donations – it doesn't matter how big their donations were."

He said it was definitely a tough trip – joking that anyone who says it is easy is lying – but wouldn't rule out taking it on a second time.

He said: "I would love to do it again but I don't think it will be anytime soon – maybe in another 10 years or so."

"No matter how prepared you think you are, it's still challenging."

The couple raised £820 and money from a collection pot at Hawkhill brought the total to £1000.

May Richmond, centre manager, said: "It's going towards a trip for our older children who are called the Responsible Young Citizens Group.

"They go and pay back acts of kindness in the community.

"We are subsidising a holiday for them; an adventure holiday in Pitlochry so that's what the money is getting used for."

The centre, based at Hillcrest Drive, offers a range of facilities and activities, relying on the efforts of volunteers to keep it going.

Of the couple's endeavour, May said: "It's phenomenal, I mean we couldn't survive without our fundraisers.

"I would like to say a massive thank you from all the children because it wouldn't be possible without this couple doing that.

"They could have donated it elsewhere but the fact that they have given it to a local group means a lot."

The centre is looking for people who can spare some time to volunteer.

Anyone who would like to get involved can contact May on hawkhillcc@yahoo.co.uk or 01259 218139 for more information.