Dumbarton teens raise funds for Robin House and Diabetes UK

Ronan Montgomery and Liam Walker, who are both 17, decided to organise the 11-a-side game involving friends and family at Tontine football ground because they both love football and wanted to help support two great causes.

Liam will be donating his share to Diabetes UK because his nana Florence O’Malley, who sadly passed away in 2015, suffered from the condition, while Ronan handed over his cheque to CHAS's Balloch children’s hospice, Robin House, last week.

Ronan, who studies sports coaching at Anniesland College, told the Reporter: “We organised a raffle and tombola, got a bouncy castle for the children, sold hot dogs, soft drinks and football cards and hired a Mickey Mouse mascot costume, which I wore at half-time.

“We only expected to do a wee charity match and certainly didn’t expect to raise all that money.

“I went up to Robin House to hand over my side last week. They were over the moon with us raising it and we’re thinking about making a yearly thing.”

It was the first time the two former Our Lady and St Patrick’s High pupils had organised a fundraising event and they were overwhelmed by the response, with over 100 people getting involved on the day.

Liam, who is studying sports and fitness coaching at West College Scotland, added: “I found the day amazing, especially seeing how many turned up and how everyone really enjoyed themselves.

“We couldn’t have done it without all the help from the community. We went round shops to get raffle prizes and they donated vouchers and things like that.

“Thanks to everyone who turned up.”

Both charities praised the efforts of the teens for taking the initiative to organise the event and raise vital funds for those in need.

Angela Mitchell, national director of Diabetes Scotland, said: “Massive well done to both Liam and Ronan for organising this great event.

"We appreciate every penny raised for us as we rely on donations to fund our vital work towards a future where diabetes can do no harm.

"To both the boys we’d like to give a huge thanks from everyone at Diabetes Scotland and the diabetes community for your support.”

Maxine Campbell, community fundraiser at CHAS, added: “We are extremely grateful to Ronan and everyone who took part in his football match for their support to CHAS.

“We are so inspired by people like Ronan, who has acted on his own initiative to fundraise for Robin House.

“The incredible amount raised will allow CHAS to continue supporting children with life-shortening conditions and their families.”