A WOMEN'S rugby team in the Wee County has smashed a fundraising target to support people with MND.

Alloa Rugby Club Ladies team could not be stopped by torrential rain when they trekked up Dumyat on Saturday, October 24, to support the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.

The team's Nicola Ferguson, who helped set the squad up just before lockdown started in March, was inspired by her daughter Isla Wilson to net funds for the good cause.

It all started when the seven-year-old asked her mum about motor neuron disease (MND), having seen coverage of Doddie Weir on the morning news.

Isla was immediately keen to help out in any way she could and asked her mum how they could raise funds together, suggesting a sponsored walk and hill climb.

Nicola told the Advertiser: "It took me by surprise – we roped in the rugby team and some of the ladies' kids.

"It was all her idea."

The walk went ahead on a dreich day, from Tullibody to Menstrie and then up the iconic summit in the Ochils with around 15 people taking part.

And the effort was worth it – more than £1,000 has already been raised, with the fundraising page still going strong.

Nicola said: "It was nice to see how overwhelmed Isla was by it all, she was taken aback by all the support she got."

She added: "Thanks to everybody that came along and everybody that donated money, it's really appreciated."

The money raised will support the foundation set up by iconic rugby player Doddie Weir OBE, who earned 61 caps for Scotland and is suffering from MND.

The good cause funds research into the currently incurable disease while making grants in a bid to improve the lives of those affected.

To support the fundraiser by the Alloa Rugby Club Ladies, visit tinyurl.com/y2jdjswn

Those interested in following the team, or indeed in joining up, can find Alloa Rugby Club on Facebook.