Glenrothes gran's birthday provides the perfect gift

Alison Rennie receives the cheque from Marie and her granddaughters Abbi and Clare

For instead of being showered with gifts from friends and family as she celebrated a landmark birthday in December, Marie Houston insisted anyone planning to buy a present put the money in a pot to benefit a worthy cause.

And that heartfelt gesture has netted a fantastic sum of £1310 which Marie has now given to respected children’s charity - Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS), based in Kinross.

“I attended an open day about 10 years ago to see the great work that CHAS does and I made a promise to my self then that one day I’d do something for them,” explained Marie.

“What I saw that day really struck a nerve with me, the care for children, some of which won’t live to anything like my age, is admirable.

“I don’t need any more things, so it seemed the best way to help in what little way a could.”

Marie’s heart-warming gesture was praised by Alison Rennie, a CHAS fundraising volunteer.

“It’s wonderful that Marie has thought to make this donation and we are extremely grateful,” said Alison.

“It will help to make a huge difference to the children we care for and the other work we do.”

The charity, now in its 20th year, provides palliative care for children and young people with life-shortening conditions at a number of hospices, including Rachel House in Kinross.