BENEVOLENT bowlers rallied together to support a hospice which cares for the grandson of its former president.

Crofthead Bowling Club, in Neilston, dedicated its annual fundraising event to 18-month-old Vincent Pape after learning of the tot’s struggles with Hypotonia – a state of low muscle tone – through his grandfather, and long-term member, Tommy Hamilton.

Vincent’s condition, which causes the body’s muscles to retain a permanent amount of tension, means he is unable to walk or crawl.

Auctions and several games of bowls helped to generate £1,700 for Robin House Children’s Hospice, in Balloch.

Operated by the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS), Robin House has been a great help to Vincent and his parents Rhona and Andy over the last year.

Ever since he was admitted to hospital last September, the trio have made a number of trips to the retreat from their family home in Southampton.

Tommy, who has lived in Neilston with wife Jenny for more than 30 years, has thanked all those involved in the fundraising effort.

He told the Barrhead News: “I gave a wee talk at the end of the event to say how much we appreciate what they’ve done.

“The bowling club does a charity event every year and said they’d give the money to CHAS for Vincent.

“Their support means a lot. My daughter Rhona and her husband Andy use Robin House at weekends. Vincent has his own room there and it gives them a bit of free time. It’s a great place for Vincent to go.”

Hypotonia is so rare among babies that even the doctors who treat Vincent are unsure if he will fully recover.

Linda King, president of Crofthead Bowling Club, said: “We thought it would be a good idea to support Robin House because Tommy’s grandson has been using the facilities.

“Tommy’s been a great supporter and is a past president and secretary. He’s a well-deserving person.

“It was a great day and most of the club members were there. We even had people travel from as far as Perth to support the event.”

For more information, visit www.chas.org.uk