FIFTY brave fundraisers battled the heat in their feet at the weekend as they took part in a charity firewalk.

The group, including parliamentarians Paul Masterton MP, Jackson Carlaw MSP and local movie star Briony Monroe, have raised nearly £9,000 for the kids of Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) to attend music concerts by walking over hot coals.

Held at Whitecraigs Rugby Club, the event was organised by Rebecca Rocks, an East Renfrewshire children’s charity.

Newton Mearns residents Andrea and Alistair McKeown set up the charity Rebecca Rocks in memory of their daughter Rebecca, who died of meningitis aged two.

The couple have been fundraising for Robin House and CHAS since the death of Rebecca in 2009, but started Rebecca Rocks in 2010 to raise money specifically for tickets to concerts and events for children in CHAS care.

Alistair said: “We are overwhelmed by the success of the firewalk. Lee from Firewalk Scotland ran a great event, which despite the blisters, was enjoyed by everyone.

“The money raised will go towards funding gig tickets and this year’s Rebecca Rocks Festival held exclusively for Robin House.”

Andrea added: “We can’t thank the firewalkers enough. Alistair and I are totally blown away by people’s generosity and support.

“We are very privileged to have such special people in our lives who are there for us and Rebecca Rocks not just for firewalks but every single day.”

The fire walkers were piped over the coals by 11-year-old Ewan who volunteered after a plea from Andrea and Alistair on the Facebook page.

MSP Jackson Carlaw said: “A year before I get my bus pass a firewalk was certainly not something I intended doing but it was a superb way of raising money for Rebecca Rocks.”