Two 17-year-old Robert Burns Academy pupils have completed a walking marathon in aid of two fantastic charities.

Beth Senior and Evie Burns set off on their challenge early Saturday (March 27) morning, travelling from Glenbuck and walking 26 miles of the River Ayr way, before finishing in Failford just before darkness fell.

The pair were raising money for Diabetes UK and the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH), after coming together to come up with a fundraising idea and deciding they would do it for their respective charities.

Beth has had diabetes since she was a toddler and has always tried hard to support the charity.

Beth and Evie’s mums, Joanna and Sandra, have said they are extremely proud of the efforts shown by the girls, and to support two incredible charities.

Joanna said: “We (Sandra and I) have seen the impact that diabetes and mental health issues can have on young people and the subsequent ripple effect upon family and friends. The girls have raised over £1000 between them for these two very deserving charities”.

Beth said that doing the challenge to support Diabetes UK was a no-brainer, because of the support the charity has given her over the years.

She said: “This charity has always been there to offer support and they rely on donations to keep this available to other families like mine.

“Donations also fund vital research into new therapies, technology and medicines, which are invaluable to people living with Diabetes.

“The walk was hard going, yes, but it was completely worth it. We played some music, enjoyed the scenery and before we knew it we were nearly done.

“We both really appreciated the immense support from both of our families and of course all of our amazing sponsors.

Evie said she knew she wanted to support SAMH because of the importance of positive mental health during lockdown.

She added: “I have seen the impact on mental health on friends and family. I wanted to raise awareness that mental health is such a massive issue and that needs to be recognised more.

“Towards the end I felt very emotional that I was able to complete this challenge and felt very proud of myself”.