The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association has donated £2,500 to the Seagull Trust and £500 to Strathkelvin Talking Newspaper Association.

Thousands of pounds were raised for charities across the UK through a national walk organised by the group.

Abdul Abid, president of the Scottish Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, and Mr Malik, a missionary for the association, presented cheques to the charities at a ceremony at the Seagull Trust's new facility at Southbank Marina.

Richard Davies, of the Seagull Trust, was delighted with the award.

He said: "This most generous donation will enable the Kirkintilloch branch`s original boat, Yarrow Seagull, to be given a full re-fit this winter as she approaches the 25th anniversary of her launch in April.

"This will enable her to look forward to many more years of service, providing free canal cruises to special needs groups and their carers."

Gillian Renwick, vice chairperson of the Strathkelvin Talking Newspaper Association, said the money would mean they could continue to provide free weekly audio tapes of the Kirkintilloch Herald to over 70 visually-impaired people in the district.

Following the presentation of cheques, the guests were taken on board the Marjorie Seagull for a cruise on the canal then given a tour of the new dry dock facility at Southbank Marina.