AN INVERCLYDE school's football team is gearing up for the new season with a shiny new kit.

The under-16 squad at St Columba's High School received 15 brand new strips and a ball from charity Children in Poverty Inverclyde.

Pupils were about to embark on a fund-raising campaign before Pat Burke, from the charity, stepped in.

(Image: George Munro)

Amy Falconer, football manager for the team, said: "It's really helpful. It feels more official. I think what Pat's done is amazing.

"There all looking forward to the season to start wearing their new strips."

The team competes in the Paisley and District League and reached the cup final last year.

Amy said: "They are a great team, a couple of the boys are pro-youth Morton and St Mirren."

Pat added: "We were only too happy to help, especially with amateur teams going to the wall.

"I wouldn't want this happen to the schools. Football is critically important to the boys.

"Fortunately all our kids get free pitches but there is still a huge upkeep to run a team and we can help, we are glad to do it.

"It takes a lot of hard work and expertise to run a football team in a school.

"It's important to St Columba's, and next week we'll be handing out strips to pupils at Clydeview."

Ryan Begley, PE teacher and football representative at the school, who has been liaising with Pat, said: "It is extremely kind and we are very grateful."