The Archie Foundation has kept its fundraising momentum going with the help of Tayside’s children.
The Oor Wullie Bucket Trail captured the imagination of most of the area’s youngsters and adults alike, culminating in the staggering £883,000 raised at last month’s auction.
But Archie has not allowed the dust to settle on its efforts to raise £2 million for the Tayside Children’s Appeal and a further £36,000 is in the bank due to the Virtual Challenge, where participants walked the distance from John O’Groats to Land’s End without leaving the region.
Each person wore a pedometer to measure their distance.
Shay McCormack, five, was one of the enthused contributors, raising funds as he went.
He recruited the help of mum Leeanne, 40, dad Stuart, 38, and family friends Lesley Edgley and Lisa Nicol to help walk the 962 miles between John O’Groats and Land’s End.
Leeanne, a photo assistant from Arbroath, said: “Shay and his best friend loved the bucket trail over the summer.
“The various challenges are a great way to raise funds, fun and give people a reason to give — and we’re very proud and pleased with Shay’s push to help.
“He’s only five and, while his understanding is basic, he knows he’s helping sick children.
“A lot of kids have so much these days and to give a little back, especially to those that have less for whatever reason, is important.
Emma White, head of fundraising for The Archie Foundation in Tayside, said: “It has been absolutely wonderful to watch the teams across Tayside and Fife take part in the virtual journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End, working together and increasing their daily activity.
“I was delighted to meet with Shay and his parents and see how enthusiastic he is to fundraise and make the difference for local sick children.”
The Virtual Challenge ended on Friday but teams can still add to the total.