A GENEROUS Gourock family has donated an amazing £100,000 to support its local hospital and hospice.

Kirk Beaton, who works in the finance sector in Hong Kong but still has close ties to the local community, wanted to help both Inverclyde Royal and Ardgowan Hospice.

Each have received a remarkable £50,000.

Kirk's late mum Phyllis was treated in the hospital and hospice seven years ago, and this is the family’s way to thank both institutions for their tremendous care.

The donations were made due to the challenging environment in Inverclyde as a result of COVID-19.

The Telegraph recently revealed how the hospice faces a £100,000-plus shortfall due to the cancellation of a series of lucrative fundraisers and the closure of its charity shops.

The family say they hope that the donations will encourage others to contribute in any way they can.

Neil Beaton, Kirk’s uncle and captain of Gourock Golf Club, spoke about the donation on behalf of the family.

Neil said: "It started off when Kirk's mum passed away.

"Phyllis had been cared for at the hospital and at the hospice and we all felt that the staff were so wonderful and caring.

"They provide an invaluable service to Inverclyde.

"There are also close links with Gourock Golf Club, and we had a golf day a few years ago and raised £25,000 for the hospice then.

"The NHS is clearly facing a challenging time just now.

"These crucial services need a lot of resources and we wanted to get the story out to see if anyone else can support the hospital and hospice.

"Everything helps."

The family has been in touch with IRH consultant surgeon in general and colorectal surgery Jonathan Hannay, who is delighted with the donation and will use it for the resources that are most needed.

Linda McEnhill, chief chief executive of Ardgowan Hospice, who accepted the cheque from Mr Beaton, said: "We are absolutely blown away by the generosity of this gift.

"This will help the hospice greatly during a period when we are experiencing the loss of £120,000 of retail and events income every three months.

"It’s amazing to know that our loyal supporters are to be found even hundreds of miles away – it certainly adds a new depth to our motto ‘together we care.’

"I want to thank our benefactor on behalf of all of our staff and the patients and families that we continue to care for during this very difficult time"