THREE thoughtful Greenock girls gave up time from their school summer holidays to set up their own charity stall and raise money for cancer research.

While most children their age were out playing in the park or off on an adventure with pals, friends Erin Quigg, 12, and twins Emma and Cara Malloy, both 11, touched the hearts of passers-by on the Esplanade when they started selling books and toys they no longer need.

Their charity ‘shop’ came completely out of the blue and raised money for Cancer Research UK.

So far the former St Mary’s Primary pupils, who will join Notre Dame High next month, have collected £150 for the cause — and made their parents as proud as punch.

Erin’s mum Christine, who lives in Margaret Street, said: “The three of them just came in one day and said they wanted to do something for Cancer Research.

“They thought they would get toys and books they didn’t need anymore and try and sell them to raise money to help people with cancer and research into it.

“We’re really pleased and Cara and Emma’s mum and dad are too.

“We’re all really proud of them.” The terrific trio set up their stall on Wednesday and Thursday on the Esplanade and spent over five hours outside trading each day. They even donned tartan scarves to attract tourists from cruise liners and boost their takings.

Christine said: “There were a lot of people just making donations. There is no final total yet but they’ve raised roughly £150, which I think is incredible.

“They sat down there on the day a ship was in and were waving tartan scarves trying to sell to the tourists.

“They were very organised and I was chased out the way because they said they knew what they were doing.

“It’s not the usual kind of thing children do during the holidays.

“But they put the effort in and I think it’s paid off.”