MEET the kind-hearted cousins who are taking on the Glasgow Santa Dash to raise cash for charity after their gran’s shock cancer diagnosis.

Charlie Reid and Ella MacPhail, both seven, are pulling on their trainers to step up for the 5k event this Sunday where they will be joined by Charlie’s mum, Lynsey Reid, 38, and Ella’s mother, Stephanie MacPhail, 42.

Profits from the Glasgow City Council-run event will be split between the Beatson Cancer Charity and the Lord Provost’s Charity Fund, which helps children and vulnerable citizens across the city.

Lynsey, from Cathcart on the Southside of Glasgow, said: “My mum Margaret was diagnosed with gastric cancer in middle of October. She is just 63 and the news completely knocked us for six.

Glasgow Times: Lynsey and Charlie, right, and brother Archie, four.Lynsey and Charlie, right, and brother Archie, four. (Image: Supplied)

“Things have gone so fast since then and she's already had one round of treatment.  Since her diagnosis, the Beatson have been amazing.  

“The staff have just been so kind and caring, they really have made the whole process of learning we have a cancer journey ahead of us a lot easier. 

“We have visited the Wellbeing Centre and met lots of the wonderful people that work there. All of them are amazing and they have all done so much to lift our spirits. 

Glasgow Times: Stephanie and Ella.Stephanie and Ella. (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity)

“Charlie and Ella cannot wait to take part in dash. They say they are looking forward to giving Steph and I a run for our money in the race to the finishing line!

“But they are so invested in the cause and are always wanting to know how much money they've managed to raise. They keep telling people that every penny will help their gran get better.” 

READ MORE: Big-hearted schoolboy to run Santa Dash in memory of much-missed grandfather

Staff from Wallacewell Primary School in Robroyston are also taking part in the weekend event in support of those in their community who are currently going through cancer treatment. 

Head teacher Laura Davidson said: “We are doing it to honour and support our loved ones currently being treated for cancer in our school community and beyond. We feel it is the least we can do. 

“We are also fundraising for the Beatson Cancer Charity as a school at our Christmas fayre too with the help of some of the Beatson Cancer Charity team.    

“One of our amazing pupils has also created their own jam business, The Wee Jam Jars, and is busy making pots to sell at the fayre. 

Glasgow Times: Pupils are sticking to their jam making mission for the BeatsonPupils are sticking to their jam making mission for the Beatson (Image: Supplied)

“The Beatson Cancer Charity makes a real difference to everyday people.”

Laura says the charity is something the school is proud to champion and represent.

She added: “We have had such a fantastic response and support from the school and the wider community to the Santa Dash effort.

“Our original fundraising target was £1000 but we are delighted to have surpassed that and are close now to £1500.”   

Maisie McCormick, community fundraising manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: “We are so excited for the Santa Dash to take place again this year. 

“Last year’s event was a great success and we loved seeing everyone in their festive t-shirts and outfits at Glasgow Green. 

“Santa Dash participants have helped raise over £400,000 for us since 2016, which is absolutely incredible. 

The event is still accepting last minute entries. Taking part costs £16 per adult and £6 per child under the age of 16, while dogs are also welcome.

Run numbers and t-shirts will be available for collection from a store in St Enoch’s Shopping Centre ahead of the event. Further details will be included in registration packs.

Register to take part in the Santa Dash at www.glasgow.gov.uk/santadash. Registration close on December 8 at 4pm.