Linzi’s on course for Ben Nevis
Miss Scotland finalist
An East Kilbride Miss Scotland beauty will climb Ben Nevis for a charity close to her heart.
Linzi McLelland from West Mains hopes to use her raised profile from the Miss Scotland platform to raise money for the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) – with this Sunday’s Ben Nevis trek the peak of her fundraising.
The 24-year-old air stewardess will be hiking in memory of her father, Jim, who took his own life at the age of 48.
“I have been raising money for SAMH for a few years now,” Linzi told the News.
“I think it is such an important cause and more needs to be done to highlight how important mental health is.
“Almost every week we hear or see on social media that someone else has sadly taken their own life.
“Ever yone has ei t her s uff ered f rom depression or knows someone who has. If only there was more support for charities to help people that are in need.
“By raising money I am hoping that this can save someone’s life and help them overcome their problems.
“I lost my father when he died by suicide and I would love to do whatever I can to make sure someone else doesn’t lose their loved one.”
Linzi added: “I will be climbing Ben Nevis in memory of my father and in aid of SAMH. Being the highest peak in the UK, I thought that this was a perfect way to show my dedication for the cause.
“I have been making sure I have been keeping fit as I heard the climb is difficult.”
Linzi is hoping that it is second time lucky in the Miss Scotland final at the Corinthian in Glasgow – having previously entered the competition in 2014.
She has organised a host of fundrasing events, including a raffle with prizes from businesses all over the town.
Additionally, she is hosting an event in The Body Shop, East Kilbride on Tuesday, June 12.
“The support I have received from the community is amazing,” Linzi continued.
“We have a hamper from the Village I n n , ha i r c u t s f r o m Sa l a h & Mic h e l l e ha i r d r e s s e r s a n d d i n n e r s f r o m l o c a l restaurants to name just a few.
“If you would like to purchase raffle tickets, you can through messaging my Facebook account or gofundme page.”
If you would like a ticket for the Body Shop event, they are priced at £5.
Visit www.gofundme.com/wh56zhben-nevis-climb if you wish to donate.