THREE Canadian police officer brothers have travelled a long way to raise money for a cause close to their hearts.

Dave, Andrew and Ken Poustie came to Troon to visit the Ayrshire Branch Parkinson’s UK local support group last week before tackling the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow in aid of the charity.

The brothers took part in the Great Scottish Run in memory of their father David, originally from Dumbarton, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 53.

Andrew said: “Our dad was always a very active man, who played soccer at a high level.

“He was very athletic and took care of himself. When he was diagnosed, Parkinson’s gradually robbed our father of the physical ability he once had, and stopped him from doing the things he loved.

“Our mum became his carer as the condition progressed. It really prevented them from enjoying their lives together.

“Our dad passed away in 2012 at the age of just 59”.

The three brothers have strong family connections with Scotland which forms part of their reasons for taking part in the Great Scottish Run. Andrew added: “My brother Dave was born in Scotland, both my parents are from there, and we still have family throughout the country”.

All three brothers serve with Police Services in Canada. Andrew is a Detective Constable with The Hamilton Police Service, working in the Investigative Services Division; Dave is a Sergeant with the London (Ontario) Police Service and Ken is a Constable with the London (Ontario) Police Service.

Parkinson’s UK Director of Fundraising, Paul Jackson-Clark, said: “I’d like to thank every one of them for choosing to support Parkinson’s UK and I wish Andrew, Ken and Dave the very best of luck with their challenge and for coming all the way from Canada to support us. Andrew, Ken and Dave have already smashed their target and have so far raised more than £2250 for Parkinson’s UK. To sponsor them visit their online giving page at: www.justgiving.com/Andrew-Poustie/