CHILDREN from Craigmarloch School are off to the theatre today thanks to the incredible generosity of people in Inverclyde.

Local charity Children in Poverty has teamed up with the Beacon to give 250 youngsters and their parents the chance to watch the classic tale of Black Beauty on stage.

This is the latest in a number of outings and treats organised by charity founder Pat Burke.

It comes after local people donated almost £12,000 before Christmas to the cause.

Craigmarloch has benefited greatly from the charity and is deeply moved by the generosity of local people.

Deputy head teacher Aileen Morgan said: “It is just wonderful what Pat is doing and we are delighted he has come to us. We can’t thank him enough.

“A trip to the theatre is something that not all of our families are able to do.

“It is a chance for our children to spend time with their friends. They are really looking forward to it.”

Children in Poverty Inverclyde is sending families involved with Mind Mosaic and Back to School Uniform bank as well as Craigmarloch to the Beacon today.

The charity has already offered families from the school holidays.

Aileen added: “Pat really puts thought in to it and cares whether the families have a good time.

“The holidays are wonderful and we are delighted to be connected with the charity.

“I have had parents cry when I contact them. In some cases they would never get these opportunities for a number of reasons.”

Children in Poverty Inverclyde was set up three years ago by Pat to send children on holiday to Hunters Quay.
Since then hundreds of families have benefited as a result.

As well as booking dozens of caravans during the holiday seasons they also have their own holiday home for respite for families throughout the year.

Local people have raised £100,000 in total for the charity, enabling  Pat to organise a number of events on top of that.

He runs a Christmas appeal, delivering presents to children and organises trips to visit Santa at Cardwell Garden Centre.

Last October he took families over to Hunters Quay for a special activity day.

He said: “This is all possible because of the generosity of people in Inverclyde.

“We are delighted to offer this to Craigmarloch, Mind Mosaic and the Back to School uniform bank. They all do wonderful work.”

The charity would like to thank the Beacon for their support and also all those who raise money on their behalf.