Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Scaling UK’s highest mountain for charity
A group of intrepid Airdrie teenagers are preparing to climb Britain’s highest mountain in aid of a mental health charity.
The generous 25-strong team will scale all 4413-feet of Ben Nevis to raise funds for Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) this Saturday.
Organiser Mackenzie McDougall, 19, told the Advertiser: “Just before lockdown we were talking about just doing a climb up Ben Nevis but we decided to hold off until restrictions started to ease – and do it for charity.
“A few weeks ago I contacted everyone and when we had a date confirmed, we picked SAMH as our charity.
“I’ve had family members who have struggled with mental health issues and this has been a major problem for many people during lockdown.
“I have noticed how many people have spoken about their issues on SAMH’s website and we want to do all we can to help, and raise awareness of, the charity ahead of it reopening its offices in September.”
Former Caldervale High School pupil Mackenzie also wanted to support a local company through the group’s muchanticipated trek.
He explained: “As well as charities like
SAMH, businesses in the area have also been negatively impacted by the global pandemic.
“I wanted us to work with a local company, so got in touch with Millers Coaches in Airdrie.
“We have booked a bigger coach so we can sit far enough apart to adhere to government guidelines, and will wear masks for the whole journey.
“During the climb itself, we will be outdoors so can follow the two-metre social distancing rules.”
And Saturday won’t be the first time Mackenzie has tackled an intimidating physical challenge.
He said: “I actually climbed Ben Nevis a few years when I was at Caldervale High to raise funds for St Andrew’s Hospice and have taken part in a few fun runs.
“I am really looking forward to the trek this Saturday, as is everyone else involved; it’s going to be brilliant!”
The Advertiser will feature pictures from the group’s Ben Nevis climb in a future edition.
Visit https:// www. facebook. com/ do nate/ 202712664409627/? fundraiser_ source=external_url to donate to the team’s fundraising campaign.
For further information about SAMH and its support services, go to https://www. samh.org.uk/