A SCHOOLGIRL from Port Glasgow came up with a sweet idea to raise money for charity — by giving up sugar for a month.

Thoughtful Newark Primary pupil Emma Watson quit chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks for the whole of February for Cancer Research UK.

The nine-year-old did it to raise some money for the charity in memory of her granda, who died from the disease a decade ago, and in support of other family members who have battled it.

Emma, who is in P5, has so far raised more than £500 and says it was easier than she thought.

She said: “I really like sweets and chocolate but it’s been fun and I now love fruit as well.”

Mum Jennifer McEwan is really proud of Emma’s achievement — but says there has been a mixed reaction from big brother Callum, 15, and older sister Megan, 17.

She said: “Emma’s a total sweetie monster but she’s not had any at all or even any juice.

“She’s done really well.

“Her plan was to have a big cake when she finished.

“We’ve been winding her up offering her cakes and sweets but she didn’t give in.

“She’s been eating so much fruit instead, which is a good thing.

“Calum wasn’t very happy because no biscuits have been bought.

“But her older sister Megan isn’t bothered because she’s diabetic.

“We’re all so proud of her.”

Emma’s dad David Watson says the whole experience has also taught her a great deal.

He said: “Most kids would sneak something out of the cupboard but not Emma and she’s really proud of herself for it.

“She’s also been eating more healthily and I took her on a five-mile walk from Port Glasgow to Quarrier’s Village.

“It’s taught her that there’s sugar in everything.

“In fairness she chose the month of February, so she’s not daft!”