A GROUP of big-hearted teenagers gave up their time during the summer holidays to help a Port Glasgow charity.

Four Inverclyde Academy pupils - Keelan Stewart, Chris McClure, Jack McPherson and Aiden Stewart - rolled up their sleeves and got to work during a three-week project at Parklea Branching Out.

The youngsters cleared footpaths, repaired signs and also made planters.

Calum Easton, Communities Co-ordinator at Parklea Branching Out was full of praise for the youngsters.

He said: "They've cleared the paths, improved the signage and have also created the planters at Kelburn Park.

"Its been really good."

Jack, 15, says he has really enjoyed the project.

He said: "Its been good as I've learned a lot of gardening skills.

"We also get a qualification out of it - a Community Achievement Award - so it's good for our CVs."

Aiden, 14, says he's learned so lots from his time with the project.

He said: "The fact that I know how to garden is great. It's a life skill and will come in handy when I have my own house.

"I would like to work as a mechanic but this experience has opened my eyes to different career paths.

"I've also gained a qualification which will help me as well."

Also proud of their achievements are Chris, 15, and Keelan, 14.

Chris said: "I've enjoyed the team-work.

"It has been fun, but also tough."

Keelan added: "Its been good, I've enjoyed it."

The Community Options Programme at Parklea helps local young people to develop their skills and future employment opportunities.

The programme has been running now over the past year and is funded through The Aspiring Communities Fund which is supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) and Scottish Government.