A TEAM from Ardrossan Academy secured £3,000 for the Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston branch of the Royal British Legion after being inspired by the stories of their grandfathers through The Wood Foundation’s Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI).

Christopher Colman and Callum Urquhart had both grown up hearing about their grandfathers’ experiences of serving in the armed forces.

Alongside their teammates Thomas Kennedy and Callum McGoldrick, the boys researched the vital support the Royal British Legion offers to veterans, how it engages the community in understanding the local contribution to historical events, and how services had been impacted by Covid-19.

Callum said: “It was great to speak to veterans and hear about their sacrifice for their country. I felt that the least we could do was win them £3000 after all they did in fighting for us. I learned a lot about what it means to be a veteran and the impact on some of the people that the Legion helps. It was great to win the money for them.”

Boab MacDougall from the Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston branch said: “Our fundraising, outreach, and services were all impacted by Covid this year. We have had to find new ways of connecting and helping our members. These funds will help us to bring our members back together, engage with schools, and have funds to provide immediate crisis support to those in need.”

Members of the team have committed to staying engaged with the charity and look at how they can do more in school.