THE army were drafted in to the Galashiels store to help disadvantaged children in the region.

Members of 6 Scots helped the Radio Borders presenting team in their cycling challenge at the town's Tesco store on Friday to raise money for Cash for Kids.

And 'A' Company Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Ryan Mounsey, who brought a piper with him, admits they were happy to answer the call to arms.

He told the Border Telegraph: "We have a presence in Galashiels, which a lot of people know about with it being right across the road from Tesco, and for us things like this are really important to show that we are an active part of the community."

"We like to give something back and get involved where we can."

The presenters - Keith Clarkson, Ruairidh Tait, and Iain Haugh - were attempting to raise £500 in 500 minutes through the static bike challenge.

Former Olympian cyclist Louise Robinson, who lives in Walkerburn and works at the Paton Street store, helped get the fundraiser underway by jumping on a bike.

And there was also a special appearance from the Braw Lad and Lass, Greg Robertson and Amy Thomson, as their first year in office nears an end.

Among the many who supported the marathon cycle challenge was local MSP Christine Grahame.

She said: "It's a great idea, involving our community, and we can't do enough for young people, particularly young people who need a wee bit of help."

However, Keith, who spent most of the day on his charity checkout, was gunged after raising the least amount of money on the bikes.

He said: "Now that I have finally managed to remove all the gunge, which literally took hours to get off, can I just say thanks to everyone.

"Over £700 raised, 150 miles covered and one happy customer getting her shopping bill paid for her - we couldn't have done it without your support!"

For anyone who couldn't make it along to Tesco on Friday can still get involved - by signing up to Cash for Kids' 500 Faces campaign.

Charity manager Candy Rafferty explained: "We're looking for 500 people to sign up and pledge to raise just £100.

"You've got the whole year to do it, it's really, really, really simple.

"We need your help more than ever. In 2018, we have approximately five children per class who are living in poverty here."