A PAIR of best pals from Greenock took on a gruelling 20-day challenge to raise vital cash for a men's mental health charity.

Jack McDaid and Ben Knox, who have known each other they were pupils at Ardgowan Primary, ran 200km between them in a bid to fundraise for Man On Inverclyde.

Ben is part of the squad with St Andrew's FC while Jack plays rugby for Greenock Wanderers under-18s.

They have experienced first-hand the importance of discussing men's mental health within their respective clubs.

The duo, both studying sports coaching at City of Glasgow College, smashed their fundraising target of £500 - collecting £1,020.

Ben, 18, told the Tele: "We have known each other from primary school, then we went to Clydeview Academy together and now study the same course at college.

"We had a discussion about what we could do, as we both knew that we wanted to raise money for the Man On group.

"Mental health isn't talked about enough.

"More guys need to have open discussions, particularly now during Covid-19."

Jack, 17, said: "As well as raising money for Man On Inverclyde, we wanted to also raise awareness of the work they do.

"We wanted to encourage people, particularly men, to open up about their feelings.

"We've both had friends and family members struggle with their mental health, so we know how important groups like Man On are.

"It's amazing the work they do locally, so we are glad we raised so much for them."

A spokesperson for Man On said: "We want to say a massive thank-you to Jack and Ben running 200km in 20 days to raise awareness of men’s mental health and £1,020 for our projects

"This is one of the best bits about our group - seeing the warmth, love and generosity of the Inverclyde people."