YOUNG engineering apprentices and graduates in Greenock are scaling new heights as they team up to support people with cancer.

Diodes' young workforce came together to take on a steep fundraising challenge, climbing one of Scotland's most famous peaks for the Beatson.

A 12-strong group from the semiconductor plant's Team Next Generation group, made up of young employees starting their careers, reached the summit of Ben Lomond, raising more than £3,000 for a cause very close to many local people's hearts.

Modern apprentice David McLennan, 19, said: "Team Next Generation was a great way of us all coming together and getting to know one another.

"It was an excellent way to do some team building.

"I think we all know someone who has been affected by cancer, so the Beatson was an ideal choice.

"It was the first time some of us had climbed a mountain but it is something we'd all do again."

David was joined by colleagues Christopher Grierson, Scott Graham, Josh O'Neill, David Yates, Craig Cunningham and Ross Hoy to hand over the cheque to the Beatson.

Diodes HR business partner Shona Darroch said: "We are very proud of our Team Next Generation.

"They were set up to look at ways they could volunteer or raise money.

"They have worked so hard together and raised an amazing amount of money."

Representatives from The Beatson Cancer Charity were thrilled to accept the generous donation.

Joyce Ross, corporate partnerships manager, said: “Team NextGen is a wonderful initiative at Diodes in Greenock.

“Part of their first year is to work together and Beatson Cancer Charity was lucky to have been nominated to benefit from their team challenge.

"Their walk up Ben Lomond collectively raised a fabulous £2,550 which was topped up with a kind donation from the Diodes Community Fund, taking their total raised to £3,050.

“Beatson Cancer Charity is delighted with the amount raised and to have been given the opportunity to meet the team, to hear more about the work of Beatson Cancer Charity.

"We wish Diodes Team NextGen a successful first year on the programme.”