LEADING actors and sporting stars have joined friends and family members on a sponsored walk supporting a Knightswood charity giving sick children and their families experiences to cherish.

Around 170 people took part in the walk in aid of Samuel’s Smile including Taggart star Colin McCredie, a member of the charity’s board, and Clydebank-based St Mirren footballer John McGinn.

Staff from Knightswood Secondary School were also among those participating in the recent trek and acting as marshals during the 15-mile route from the bandstand in Clydebank to Balloch Country Park.

Around one quarter of the sponsor sheets have been returned so far, with £5,500 raised already.

Sixteen-year-old Samuel Bell, the charity’s founder and a sufferer of Total Intestinal Hirschsprung’s Disease, told the Post: “We had an amzing day.

“I was worried about how many people would come but 170 turned up to show their support and I can’t thank them enough.

“The weather forecast wasn’t good but when we were starting the sun came out and the scenery was fantastic. Everyone was on a high afterwards, it couldn’t have gone better.” Earlier this year, the Post reported on the formation of Samuel’s Smile, which aims to give ill children and their families unforgettable experiences together where they can forget about their troubles and have fun.

Samuel is the oldest surviving sufferer in Europe with his condition. He cannot eat and receives his nutrients via a pump, with a line passing fluids into his heart.

A prominent campaigner, he has met former Prime Minister Tony Blair, former First Minister Jack McConnell and even Her Majesty the Queen in his attempts to raise awareness of children with debilitating conditions.

Any individuals or businesses looking to support Samuel’s Smile can find out more online at www.samuels-smile.co.uk or via the organisation’s Facebook page.