CARING schoolkids have honoured the memory of Captain Sir Tom Moore by coining in cash for two worthy charities. 

Youngsters from the East End’s Haghill Park and St Denis’ primaries ran, star jumped, and even hula-hooped their way to nearly £1200 after completing the 100 For Captain Tom challenge. 

Launched shortly after the centenarian’s death in February, it saw the children complete 100 sponsored tasks and last week the pupils handed over cheques to causes close to their hearts. 

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Around £600 was given to both the Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation and Poppyscotland in a ceremony at Alexandra Park’s war memorial on Thursday. 

Louise Mackie, head teacher of St Denis’ Primary, said: “St. Denis’ Primary is at the heart of the Dennistoun community, therefore I was absolutely delighted that we were invited to participate in the challenge to raise funds in memory of Captain Sir Tom. 

“During the month of November, our primary six class take leadership of selling poppies on behalf of Poppyscotland and we have worked, in partnership, with the Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation on a number of occasions; with the charity supporting several school initiatives. 

Glasgow Times: Captain Tom captured the hearts and souls of the nation Captain Tom captured the hearts and souls of the nation

“Over the years, our children and the children from Haghill Park Primary have had the opportunity to participate in joint learning opportunities, therefore when Paula Grant and Jim suggested that we work as a community partnership, we were delighted to be involved. 

“A sincere thank you to everyone who made kind donations during a very challenging lockdown situation.” 

Not only has the cash gone to the two worthy causes but it has also been used to create permanent memorials to the veteran in each school. 

Jim Watson of The Friends of Dennistoun War Memorial – who came up with the challenge alongside Paula Grant, head teacher of Haghill Park –  said it was a fitting way to honour Sir Captain Tom.

Glasgow Times: Jim Watson Jim Watson

The former British Army officer raised around £40 million for the NHS last year by doing laps of his garden.

Mr Watson said: “It was a fantastic effort from the kids. 

“We saw that much on the news in terms of how fantastic a person he was and how optimistic he was.

“He was an inspirational guy and to do something in his memory was good.” 

Gordon Michie, head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, said: “Just as Captain Sir Tom was an inspiration to us all, it is inspiring to see the amazing work of these local schools in commemorating his incredible life. 

"The incredible amount they have raised will help Poppyscotland to provide our life-changing support to those in our Armed Forces community who urgently need our support today, and we thank all of the pupils, teachers, families and friends who contributed.”