YOUNGSTERS from a Greenock nursery are the latest to join the campaign to help brave fighter Andy Adams after he was seriously injured fighting a deliberate blaze.

Children attending West College Scotland’s nursery have been going on sponsored walks around the Finnart Street building to boost the fund to assist Andy’s rehabilitation.

And some of his colleagues from Greenock fire station went along to the nursery to thank the children and encourage them.

Andy, 49, has no feeling below his chest after a wall collapsed on him while he tackled an incident at the Larkfield Masonic Club last year.

Nursery child care practitioner Jacqui Templeton said they wanted to help because she and a nursery nurse have close connections with the fire service.

Jacqui said: “My father was a fireman, so our family were well aware of the dangers faced by the fire service.

“The boyfriend of one of the nursery nurses is a retained fireman, and that also spurred us to do something to help Andy’s fund.”

There are 32 three to five-year-olds at the nursery, and they have been walking around the college every day this week.

Jacqui said: “Most of the kids are aware of what we’re doing on the sponsored walks for the fireman who was hurt. 

“They are keen to raise money for Andy.

“Anyone who wants to donate is welcome to pop into the nursery with their contribution.”

Greenock fire station watch manager Murray Forbes says Andy’s colleagues appreciate everything being done on his behalf by the public.

Mr Forbes added: “I know Andy is very grateful to everyone for their support.”

Andy has paid tribute to all those backing his fund as he faces up to having to relearn basic skills like how to eat, drink and swallow.

He said: “I want to thank everyone for their support — my family and my colleagues, and people from all over the country. It has given me the motivation to keep going.”

The Fire Brigade Union has donated over £25,000 after a lottery drive and a fundraising night in Port Glasgow Town Hall, and the appeal total now stands at an impressive £46,242.

Donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.
com/crowdfunding/Andy-Adamsfund