A CARDROSS schoolgirl has donated £655 to Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank after a month-long fund-raising effort.

Eight-year-old Erin Packham ran at least a mile every day in December, racking up sponsorship donations along the way.

She was inspired by her mum, Sara, who set herself the challenge of running three miles a day for the full month.

Sara said: “She plays tennis and football, but she’s never been particularly into running - she’s just on the go all the time.

“We live on a farm, so she was able to do it quite independently which was great.

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“For a few of the runs, she came and did three miles with me, but most of them she just got up and went on her own.

“She was so focused and determined; I didn’t once have to tell her to go and do it.”

The Cardross Primary School pupil chose to support the food bank after her teachers asked if she was using the challenge as an opportunity to raise money for a good cause.

She delivered the cheque to the food bank with her mum and heard about how the money would be used.

Sara said: “They were so lovely and supportive, and they were really open in telling her everything that they do.

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“It’s difficult just now because you’re not really seeing everything due to restrictions, but I think it’s important for the kids to have that open-mindedness and learn about other people’s circumstances.

“On the way back, I could already see her thinking about trying to top it next year - she’s a determined little soul.”

Erin received a great amount of support, with her fellow school pupils even joining in for the mile on one of the days.

Sara added: “All our friends, family and work colleagues have been so supportive and it was really awesome of them to donate money in this climate.”

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