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Register nowStirling played host to the Queen’s Baton Relay on its twenty third day in Scotland as the countdown to Glasgow 2014 continues. The Stirlingshire area is situated right in the very heart of Scotland and historically was the site of great Scots military victories and the seat of Scottish royalty.
History was to a play a significant part in the day’s proceedings, with Stirling’s many landmarks proving too tempting for the relay team to ignore.
The baton began in Stirling at one of Scotland’s most beloved buildings, Stirling Castle, where it was welcomed by Mary Queen of Scots and other characters of the castle’s volatile past. As the day marched on the relay team visited Thornhill, Drymen, Balfron and Kippen. It was also welcomed at Raploch’s Community Campus and Killearn Village Hall.
Stirling provided a feel good vibe that lasted for the length of the day and the batonbearers were in fine fettle throughout the relay.
Grinning Angus Hepburn aged 16 seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself when he carried the baton. Angus encourages others to take part in sport something which can be tricky due to his Apsergers. Sport has allowed Angus to build confidence and improve relationships and communication skills and he has also worked to raise money for a community in Kenya.
There was a ‘Rocky’ moment early in the day as a brass group from the Big Noise project welcomed baton bearer Cameron Milne with music from the movie Rocky. Cameron won the European Junior Relay Triathlon Championships in 2011. His sister Natalie Milne will compete for Team Scotland in the triathlon at the Commonwealth Games later this month.
Interspersed amid the towns and villages was trip to Blairdrummond Safari Park. Here the baton was carried by identical twin sisters Donna and Fiona Robertson, who are both set to represent Team Scotland in wrestling at the XX Commonwealth Games. Fiona also competed at the English Open, where she came second - losing to her sister in the final, thankfully they played nice at Blairdrummond.
The evening celebrations were held at Stirling’s sports centre The Peak, which provided entertainment in the baking late sunshine for hundreds of locals.
| 08:15 | Stirling (1) |
| 08:35 | Raploch |
| 09:20 | Thornhill |
| 09:55 | Aberfoyle |
| 11:25 | Drymen |
| 11:50 | Killearn |
| 13:05 | Balfron |
| 14:35 | Kippen |
| 15:20 | Blair Drummond |
| 16:40 | Bannockburn |
| 17:45 | Stirling (2) |
| 18.15 | Stirling (3) |
| 18.35 | Stirling (4) |
Angus is 16 years old. Despite dealing with the difficulties associated with the condition Aspergers, he has been committed to participating and encouraging others to take part in sport - even when it is not his favourite activity. Sport has allowed him to build confidence and improve relationships and communication skills. He has become a role model within his local community and has worked to raise money for a community in Kenya.
Sandy is a legend within Fintry for his contribution of over 30 years to Fintry Sports Club. From a standing start, he's taken the Club to over 700 members which is more than the village population. He’s also served actively on the voluntary committee throughout, organising, promoting and inspiring many to take up sport and participate in community activity.
Molly is 13 and cares for her older brother who has ADHD and ODD. She provides emotional support to him, and also helps her mum with the daily household maintenance. She receives support from Stirling Young Carers Service, and on her own accord has regularly given back to the service by raising awareness, including presenting at the organisations AGM, and has raised funds for the service through jumble sales.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 44, John set up a Young Parkinson’s Group in 2011. He works tirelessly to raise money, involving himself in everything from car boot sales and car washes to bike rides and school talks. Parkinson’s UK direct young people struggling with their condition to John for help and support. He has organised regular exercise classes, physio and alternative therapy sessions and is currently in discussions to secure Parkinson’s first charity shop premises.
Over the past five years, Gordon has mentored over 60 boys through their Duke of Edinburgh awards within the Boys' Brigade in Dunblane. He has organised, coordinated and coached these boys to ensure they have the best opportunity for success and has also helped them organise all their expeditions. His level of commitment, selflessness and enthusiasm is inspirational to the young men and also to his fellow volunteers amongst the Boys' Brigade.
Allan is a volunteer relationship counsellor supporting couples and individuals who are struggling with young families or domestic abuse. He helps young runners through Stirling Athletic Club and also encourages older people to take part in fitness activities. He recently ran a half marathon, 13.1 miles and an ultra-marathon, 33 miles, within six days to raise funds for an orphanage for disabled children in Bangladesh. He intends to visit the children this year.
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