Scotmid Co-operative have raised £345,000 to the NSPCC service

A charity has been boosted by a bumper donation.

Scotmid Co-operative raised £345,000 for Childline after carrying out a range of fundraising activities for the helpline.

The company beat its original fundraising target by 15 per cent and the money raised will allow the NSPCC-run confidential advice service for children to answer approximately 85,000 calls, emails and online messages from young people who need someone to listen to them.

The year-long partnership saw stores hold various fundraising activities, from dress down days and raffles to skydives, triathlons and long-distance cycle rides.

As part of the partnership, Scotmid also actively promoted ways that staff and customers can volunteer for the helpline to counsel children and young people on a range of topics including mental health issues, family problems, body image, bullying and abuse.

Elaine Chalmers, service head of helplines for Childline in Scotland, said: "The enthusiasm and sheer hard work of the Scotmid family has been overwhelming. Childline volunteers and staff are proud to be associated with this effort.”

John Brodie, chief executive of Scotmid Co-operative added: "Childline is such a valuable service for children and young people in our communities so we are absolutely delighted to have partnered with the charity and surpass our fundraising target.”