COUNTY sprint legend George McNeill has donated a cheque for £3,666 to East Lothian Special Needs Playscheme.

The Tranent star, who once held the world record for the fastest 110m sprint, raised money alongside football legend and Provost of Fife Jim Leishman, and after-dinner speaker Willie Allan at a St Andrew’s Day event.

George was pleased to be able to support the playscheme, which his granddaughter Sophie, 13, attends.

Each of the three men chose a charity to support and they split the £11,000 raised from the event, which took place in Dunfermline, three ways.

A cheque was presented by George to Kirsty Milne, the playscheme co-ordinator, at its family fun day on December 15 at North Berwick Community Centre. On the day, families were invited to enjoy festive activities and a musical interactive show from Artie Trezise of the Singing Kettle.

George said: “Sophie goes to [the playscheme] every Thursday night and they all do a great job.

“They are taking the kids on a trip to a camp in May which I think in total will cost around £6,000 so I hope this donation can go towards that, and to the running costs.

“I have given them smaller amounts over the last six months but I am totally over the moon to be able to provide a larger amount.”

Kirsty said: “We are delighted to have received such a generous donation from George.

“George has been a great supporter of our charity and we are extremely grateful to have received the sum of £650 which he has donated throughout the year from his public speaking events.

“The donation of £3,666 will be put towards our 2020 Star Youth Club residential weekends, where we will be supporting over 30 children and young people with additional needs to access a three-day, two-night outdoor activity weekend in Aviemore in May.

“The purpose of the weekend is to build confidence, provide access to new activities, promote independence and life skills, and to provide an opportunity for members to have fun and spend time away from their family.

“The weekend will offer the children a chance to take part in a variety of activities and excursions such as canoeing, rope courses, woodland walks, a visit to Landmark Forest Adventure Park, and team-building activities.”