A CLACKS father and son are tackling big heights and showing big hearts as they embarked on a challenge that raised thousands for charity by climbing Ben Nevis.

Scott McIntosh and his son Lewis joined others to raise money for the British Heart Foundation after Lewis' girlfriend Emma lost her mum, at only 51, suddenly to heart complications in October of last year.

The Sauchie pair brought together the twelve-strong team and raised £4000 for the British Heart Foundation.

They took on the support of their wife and mum Dawn, as well as Dawn's mum, and Emma with her dad, her uncle and five others.

It was Emma, her dad and uncle who led the charge in memory of their beloved relative.

Scott said: "It was devastating when Emma's mum died. It came as such as shock and we felt powerless.

"This climb is a way of taking action and doing something that has raised money to help the British Heart Foundation continue their excellent work in researching new treatments and cures."

Scott praised his family and the energy that they put into the climb, helping everyone get through it.

He added: "The whole family was a little apprehensive, but we were looking forward to the climb, especially my wife, Dawn, who has been training most weekends over the past few months,

"My mother-in-law really provided inspiration and motivation as she is an avid hill climber and set the pace for the group.

"Collectively, the team of 12 have raised over £4000 which we are thrilled about."

The team had the backing of their workmates, who had every faith that they would achieve what they set out to do.

Scott and Lewis also had the backing of their employer, housebuilding firm Mactaggart & Mickel, which backed the fundraiser.

Joanne Casey, director at Mactaggart & Mickel, said: "Scott and Lewis have worked for Mactaggart & Mickel for a number of years and so we knew their determination and hard work would see them rise to the challenge.

"We were fully behind them and, along with a donation to the British Heart Foundation, we wish them the best of luck in continuing to add to their impressive total raised."

The fundraiser is still open and is still accepting donations at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Dawn-Mcintosh4