A JOHNSTONE boy has raised hundreds of pounds for a respite centre which helps his autistic brother.

Four-year-old Carter Duffy walked 26 miles as part of this year’s Virtual Kiltwalk to coin in cash for the Loom Walk residential short breaks service.

The Kilbarchan-based respite centre provides overnight care for children with disabilities, including Carter’s 10-year-old brother Cole, giving children and parents a break.

Proud mum Ashley, 34, who accompanied Carter during his challenge last week, said the marathon walk took 13 hours to complete over three days.

She told The Gazette: “For a four-year-old, he did brilliantly.

“He really loved it and he’s a chatterbox, so he was talking to everyone we passed during the walk.

“On the first day, we completed five miles to Lochwinnoch. The next two days, we did 10-and-a-half miles each and finished outside the respite centre on the final day.

“We chose to fundraise for the centre as Carter said he wanted to buy his brother and his friends toys for when they go there.”

A JustGiving page set up by Ashley for Carter’s fundraiser had raised more than £1,100 by yesterday – well beyond its £100 target.

The mum-of-three said the family wanted to give back to the respite centre, which Cole attends two days every month.

She said: “Families with disabled kids are watching them 24 hours around the clock, so to have these two days to know you can relax and know your child is having an absolute ball, while in safe hands, is really important.

“The staff go above and beyond to help you in any way they can.”

Christine Lavelle, service co-ordinator at Loom Walk, said she was “absolutely delighted” when she heard of Carter’s contribution.

She added: “I would like to say a huge thank-you and well done to Carter and Ashley. It really is appreciated.”

To show your support, make a donation online at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ashley-elliott-2.