A GROUP of primary school boys inspired by the memory of their friend have raised thousands of pounds to help children with life-shortening illnesses.

The youngsters, from West Linton Primary School, tackled a host of challenges with unwavering determination to raise £7,000 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

They were driven by the desire to honour the memory of their P1 classmate Archie Hall, who died after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2018.

Friends Cory, Howie, Thomas, Harris, Joe, Angus, Harry, Daniel, Leo, Finlay, Ben, Cameron L, Lex, Cameron G and Cameron C were involved in the fundraisers.

In a joint statement, the boys’ parents said: “The boys not only did their friend Archie proud but also demonstrated such teamwork and camaraderie in ensuring they met all the challenges together. It was really heartwarming to see.

“A lovely group of boys who have made us all very proud.”

The schoolfriends performed as a band at the village’s Christmas lights switch-on, abseiled down the Falkirk Wheel, took on a daily 100-skips challenge and completed a sponsored cycle to raise the cash.

Archie was cared for at CHAS’s Rachel House hospice in Kinross.

A spokesperson for CHAS – which provides comfort and care to children with life-shortening illnesses and their families – described the youngsters’ efforts as “incredible”.

Zhenya Dove, community fundraiser at the charity, said: “We can’t thank the boys, their parents, the staff at West Linton Primary and the entire community enough for their incredible support.

“Their incredible support means a lot to all of us at CHAS. Every event they took on in memory of Archie helps CHAS continue to care for children like him, and their entire families, during the hardest times.

“A massive well done to Cory, Howie, Thomas, Harris, Joe, Angus, Harry, Daniel, Leo, Finlay, Ben, Cameron L, Lex, Cameron G and Cameron C for their inspiring work.”