AN East Renfrewshire couple have organised a Hallowe’en-inspired competition to raise vital funds for a cause close to their hearts. 

Andrea and Alistair McKeown were left devastated in 2009 when their daughter Rebecca died at the age of two.

However, determined to make sure that some good emerged from the tragedy, they decided to set up a charity in her memory.

Since then, the couple have raised more than £80,000 for the Robin House children’s hospice.

For their latest money-spinner, Andrea and Alistair have set up a spooky competition to see who can create the scariest window display this Hallowe’en.

The couple originally began their Wicked Window campaign in Newton Mearns but the competition’s popularity has led to them receiving entries from across Scotland, with the competition having already raised over £2,000.

The window displays are being shown on the charity’s social media pages and the one with the most ‘likes’ will receive a £40 voucher for The Broom Cafe, in Newton Mearns.

Other runner-up prizes include a £25 voucher for hair salon Studio Two Six One and a £20 voucher for DIY shop Stevenson's Hardware, also located in Newton Mearns.

Barrhead News: Alistair and Andrea McKeown with their kids Samantha, Hamish and JacobAlistair and Andrea McKeown with their kids Samantha, Hamish and Jacob

Alistair told the Barrhead News: “We want to make this Hallowe’en fun for people, while keeping safe.

“Covid-19 has clearly taken its toll and we would like to spread a little joy through our communities.”

Andrea added: “Hallowe’en 2020 will be like no other.

“For those decorating their windows and all the people who will enjoy seeing their scary displays as they walk by, take a few moments to think of our lovely Rebecca, who didn’t get a lifetime of Hallowe’en memories.

“Your donations make happy memories for so many families who need them most.”

Rebecca spent the last few days of her life at Robin House – a children’s hospice near Balloch – after she was diagnosed with meningitis, caused by bacterial infection tuberculosis.

Andrea and Alistair later set up the Rebecca Rocks charity to support other families facing similar heartache.

To enter the Wicked Window competition, participants should give £5 or more to the charity’s fundraising page at justgiving.com/RebeccaRocksWickedWindows and then send an email to RebeccaRockCHAS@gmail.com to receive a display poster and number for their window.