DETERMINED schoolchildren are going the extra mile to raise money for one of Inverclyde's favourite charities.

Pupils in S1 to S3 at Craigmarloch are taking everything in their stride as they prepare to complete a 5k walk at the Battery Park tomorrow in aid of Ardgowan Hospice.

The walk is part of the junior award scheme for schools (JASS) - a learning programme for young people which has been designed to recognise their wider achievement.

As part of the scheme, the pupils get a chance to participate in a community project to raise funds for a local charity- and chose the hospice.

Bella Donna Owejan, the wider achievement teacher at Craigmarloch, says the kids can't wait to complete the fundraising walk.

She said: "The pupils are extremely proud to be sponsoring such a great charity.

"All the money raised will make such a difference to each and every patient that the Ardgowan Hospice cares for.

"The benefits of participating in outdoor activities are well recognised and fit in with our health and well-being programme.

"Our pupils are working together in a co-operative way and the benefits of this sponsored walk are plentiful.

"I couldn’t be prouder of my students."

Shay Weir, 14, and friend Kacey Martin, 12, are excited about doing something which will help the hospice look after people.

Kacey said: "We want to raise lots of money for the hospice."

Aiden Baird, who is in S3, added: "It will be good fun and we will get a lot of exercise too, which is good."

Luke McDermott, who is in S1, told the Tele: "I enjoy doing the daily mile in school every day and I think the charity walk is going to be great."

The children will set off on their walk at the Battery at 10am and would like to thank everyone who has sponsored them in aid of Ardgowan, which needs several thousands of pounds each week to offer lifeline services to terminally ill people and their families.