A PAIR of best pals who ditched the drink raised over £1,000 for the local hospice in memory of their late friend and colleague.

Joyce Murdoch and Christine Anderson went 'aff it' for Ardgowan to mark 11-years since popular local fitness instructor Rona Boag lost her battle with cancer.

The passionate pair abstained from alcohol for five weeks and raised £1,200 in the process.

Joyce, who works for Inverclyde Leisure, said: "The first week was the worst but we tested ourselves and even managed to go to events and be designated driver.

"We did things we never would do and really pushed ourselves for the charity."

Christine, who runs Inverclyde Gymnastics Club, added: "We had people donating who we don't even know which shows just how popular Rona was.

"We feel refreshed and can't believe how much we managed to raise, we're absolutely delighted."

Fundraising Officer at Ardgowan Hospice, Elaine McNeill, added: "We are so grateful to Joyce and Christine for their incredible fundraising.

"Rona was loved by so many in the community, so this was a lovely way for people to come together and pay tribute to her."