BIG-hearted players and staff at Netherdale have put their bodies on the line to help bring festive cheer to local children.

Gala players, coaches and committee members undertook a gruelling 24 hour cycle last weekend in aid of the Mission Christmas appeal.

The appeal, organised by the charity Cash For Kids, aims to help provide Christmas gifts for children living in poverty.

Players from the 1st XV, 2nd XV, Gala YM and Gala Vixens were joined by members of the coaching staff and committee.

The event saw a total of 48 participants, including players who had been involved in the match against Ayr earlier in the day.

The local campaign, which raised £70,000 last year, is run by Radio Borders.

Save the Children estimate that there are 14,500 children in the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland living in poverty.

This year's appeal aims to support 1,000 disadvantaged local children by ensuring they wake up to presents on Christmas Day.

Gala player Graham Speirs explained how the club became involved with the charity.

He said: “A few of the players and coaches got together and decided that we could perhaps be doing more to help the local community.

“We realise that the community does a great deal for Gala RFC and wanted to give something back..

“As a club we were aware of the great work being done by the Mission Christmas appeal and we contacted Radio Borders.”

In addition to the charity cycle, the club have undertaken their own 'mannequin challenge' to help raise awareness of the appeal.

A video of the statuesque performance can be viewed through the club's official Twitter account.

“We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Stuart Cameron who has done a fantastic job filming and editing the video,” added Graham.

Although the total amount raised is not yet known, Graham revealed that the club is keen to partake in further community projects.

“We don't have a clear plan for next year yet but now we've got a real feel for contributing to the community.

“It is definitely something we would like to continue doing.”

More information about supporting the Cash for Kids cause can be found at www.radioborders.com/mission.