TWO Irvine youngsters have raised an outstanding four-figure sum for a charity very close to their hearts.

Sophie and Ella Duggan, aged nine and six, completed the first ever 5km walk in Glasgow on September 24.

They were doing so, alongside their gran Lynne and uncle Martin, in an effort to raise funds for the MS Society.

Irvine Times: The girls with gran Lynne and uncle Martin.The girls with gran Lynne and uncle Martin. (Image: Joanne Duggan)

In a truly outstanding effort, the pair raised £1,229 - making them one of the day's top fund-raisers.

It's a charity very close to the family's hearts, since the girls' dad, Allan, has lived with MS for 25 years, having been diagnosed aged just 20.

Allan had a relapse in 2019, something he has never fully recovered from, meaning his daughters have become far more aware of the condition over the past few years.

Sophie and Ella's mum Joanne explained: "They witness every day how this condition affects their daddy and how he overcomes everything and keeps going.

"Allan had completed a 10k when Sophie was two, and a skydive four and a half years ago, but is now not able to walk any great distance, let alone run.

"The girls fund-raising for MS and completing this walk seemed even more special as he’s unable to do this himself anymore.

"They have watched how he has gone from using a zimmer frame and walking sticks to walking unaided and concentrating on his health and fitness to try and keep himself and his mind healthy.

"Ella hopes that the charity can now help people manage their MS and get rid of her daddy’s sore leg."

It hasn't been all plain sailing for the Annick Primary pupils, though, with Sophie having health concerns of her own in the past year - something which made the pair's fund-raising effort even more remarkable.

Sophie has experienced "terrible leg pains" which her mother said has affected her daily life, school and her participation in activities.

After many NHS and private consultations and scans, she was diagnosed with chronic pain and snapping hip and given prescription medication to help.

"A few months ago she wouldn’t have been able to complete this walk and would have been in agony," Joanne said.

"She is finally getting back to her normal self - and said after the walk she would like to do the 10k next time!"

The girls were received medals at the end of their walk, and were rightly delighted - even taking them into school the following Monday the show their teachers and classmates.

Irvine Times: The girls with their medals.The girls with their medals. (Image: Joanne Duggan)

Joanne continued: "We are both immensely proud of them and how much they have raised for an amazing charity which does a lot for MS.

"Especially when times are hard, everyone has been so generous and encouraged them a lot."