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.
Stirling 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.