SUPER slam dunkers at Inverclyde Academy have helped people with cancer and other life limiting illnesses after hosting a charity basketball match.

The hotly contested teacher v pupil game was organised by 17-year-old James Lewis on Tuesday 1 April.

Over 200 pupils and teachers clapped and cheered as they gathered to watch the closely fought match, which raised an impressive £231 for Ardgowan Hospice.

James, a sixth year pupil, was shocked by how much was raised.

He said: “I really didn’t expect to raise as much as I did.

“I decided to raise money as I know family and friends who have used the hospice.

“When I started to organise the event I visited the hospice to see what it’s like and I saw how much they do for people and learned about all the services they provide.” Although the pupils lost 28-24 to their teachers, James says it was still great fun.

He told the Tele: “It was a good laugh.

“Our former PE teacher Kevin Scott, who plays basketball at national level and with the Glasgow Storm team, came back for it, which was great.” Elaine McNeill, community development manager at the hospice, says the money will make a huge difference.

She said: “It’s amazing, we really appreciate it.

“It will directly help in patient care as it costs £8,500 per day to provide all of the services free of charge to the patients and their families in the Inverclyde area.”