A TULLIBODY teen is holding a charity badminton rally this month in the hopes of raising funds for two separate charities.

Katherine Martin, 13, has called on her fellow young athletes to help "get as long a rally as possible" and has asked friends, family and members of the public to sponsor her.

All donations made to the fund will be split between the Tullibody Community Garden, where her dad had volunteered, and Clic Sergeant – a national charity devoted to supporting children and young people who have been diagnosed with cancer.

The Lornshill Academy pupil told the Advertiser: "Badminton is something that gives me opportunities. I've met many people and made friends [while playing] and I like the mental and physical aspect.

"It has helped me to become more confident. I appreciate sports development helping to have this fundraiser.

"I wanted to give something back to the community," she added. "People who run the Tullibody Community Garden are nice and kind.

"As teenagers we get a lot of help but don't always help others. I've wanted to do some kind of fundraiser for a while.

"I thought I could get my friends to help me try to get as long a rally as possible. My friends at badminton are great. Some of us play together a few nights at different clubs and classes.

"I've raised about £400 so far, and I'd really love to reach £500. This will be split between Tullibody Community Garden and Clic Sergeant."

Sarah Watts, one of the Tullibody community gardeners, added: "It's really great that Katherine has decided to do this fundraiser; it's very generous of her.

"There is a very real sense of community in Tullibody. People have been helping out with the community garden, giving their time and energy when they're able to.

"The project relies on people doing their bit and helps bring people together."

Katherine and her friends attend a badminton group run by the council's sports development.

The event is to take place on Friday, April 29. For more information or to donate, visit the teen's Just Giving page at https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/katsbadmintonrally?utm_id=2