CHILDREN at Galashiels’ Osito nursery have rallied to raise almost £2,000 to help support one of their friends.

As previously reported, two-year-old Ben McAulay was born with a hole in his heart. At just two days old he was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot – a complex heart defect which caused him to tire easily.

And at seven days old he underwent his first operation to help improve his oxygen levels.

But that didn’t stop him completing the ‘Toddle around Tweedbank Pond and Park’ last month to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House charity. And his friends joined in, raising a total of £1,884.10 through sponsorship. Susan Elliot, team leader at Osito Nursery said: “The children did an excellent job fundraising. Everyone was so generous. We are delighted to be able to donate £1,884.10 to the Ronald McDonald House charity.”

The organisation supported Ben’s family when he was in hospital in Glasgow.

It provides parents with a place to stay while their child is being treated.

Susan added: “Everyone enjoyed the walk at Tweedbank and did very well.

“A lot of money has been raised now through the children, collection boxes and JustGiving page.”