MENTAL health patients are set to benefit after a Tillicoultry mum and her four-year-old cracked their fundraising target at a recent charity event.

Kelly-Marie Hearsum and son Alexzander Pollock entered the 5k Big Fun Run in Edinburgh last month, raising cash for Forth Valley Giving with the money going to the mental health unit at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

The youngster donned his Batman costume for the event, which took place on July 29, and enjoyed the “lovely scenery” along the route.

Proud mum Kelly-Marie told the Advertiser: “The 5k went amazingly; Alexzander loved it, and he was running faster than people older than me.

“Holyrood Park was awesome, lovely scenery and I’d recommend the Big Fun Run to anyone who is planning on running for a charity of their choice.”

Kelly-Marie added that “everyone needs a superhero” in their life and was happy to let Alexzander choose a costume for the occasion.

Together the intrepid duo were able to raise £360 for the cause.

The cash is going to NHS Forth Valley charity Forth Valley Giving, which has secured improvements worth tens of thousands of pounds in recent years.

It is a cause close to her heart, as Kelly-Marie previously explained she once had to battle her own demons so she was keen to help others suffering from mental health problems.

The now mum-of-two managed to turn things around after a “dark stage” in her life and organised a charity event at the time, which helped keep her mind occupied.

Her drive to secure the latest round of donations started in May, which marked Mental Health Awareness Month.

She previously told the Advertiser: “Having experience of going through a dark stage in life and getting help from a complete stranger, it’s made me want to do something to help others.”

With the run and collections now over, Kelly-Marie wanted to give a nod of thanks to those who contributed.

She said: “I would like to thank all family and friends for support, but also Tillicoultry Nursery for taking the time to help us get donations.”