A STIRLINGSHIRE eight-year-old cycling enthusiast has completed a fundraising challenge to help protect children from harm.

Eilidh Wallace, from Drymen, pledged to cycle 300km in 30 days for NSPCC Scotland last month and recently completed the challenge.

Biking on lanes and roads around her home with dad Tom and uncle David, she has so far raised around £2,000 for the children's charity.

She was inspired to undertake the challenge after a visit from the NSPCC to her school at Drymen Primary before the lockdown.

Her efforts will support the charity's Childline, which has been supporting hundreds of young people throughout the pandemic.

Eilidh said: “The NSPCC came into my school and taught us about how our private parts are private and we watched a video with their mascot Pantosaurus.

“My mum used to volunteer for Childline so I want to raise more money and help as many children as I can.”

She initially set a target of £100 but with the help of generous family and friends she has managed to smash that target.

Eilidh added: “I’d like to say thanks to my family for sponsoring me, I can’t believe how much money I’ve raised.

“I hope all the money raised can make a big change in some children’s lives.”

Her success has also spurred dad Tom and uncle David to pledge to complete a 300km cycle in one run over around 30 hours when lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Caroline Renton, supporter fundraising manager at NSPCC Scotland, said: “Eilidh has taken on a huge challenge and we’re very grateful for her commitment and enthusiasm.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has been fundraising and supporting the NSPCC, especially after most mass participation and fundraising events have been cancelled or postponed.

“We’re still here for children and it’s with your support that we can continue to be so throughout this public health crisis.

“Through Childline, our counsellors support children with a wide range of issues including mental health, family relationships and abuse.

“Our Helpline is always there for adults who wish to seek advice or if they are concerned about the welfare of a child.

“If anyone would like to take on a challenge like Eilidh’s, or come up with a fundraising idea of your own, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

Click here to sponsor Eilidh and email scotlandfundraising@nspcc.org.uk to raise funds.