Big Learner Relay comes through Fort

It’s the furthest north the relay for Children in Need has ever been and Lochaber driving instructors are leading the way.

Anyone who has been around Fort William, will have no doubt seen Jean O’Brien and others driving around in spotty cars.

Ms O’Brien has raised more than £800 through sponsored spots with all proceeds going to Children in Need.

The Fort William driving instructor will be leading the convoy of learner cars from the Ballachulish Hotel to The Premier Inn, Fort William, with one of her students driving the route.

She said: ‘My pupil who is going to drive my car is Carina MacLean and she’s very excited about being the lead driver for our stint.

‘People have been so generous. One gentleman from Derby stopped to talk to me down by the canal. He was here with his wife and he sponsored a spot as he always donates to Children in Need.

‘I am so excited and honoured to be part of a UK-wide experience. It feels great to be part of something starting so far away in Land’s End and it’s been great getting to know new friends online through this experience.’

Volunteer relay organiser Amy Cullen is excited to be bringing the relay to John O’ Groats on the northern tip of mainland Scotland.

She said: ‘We have been to Scotland in previous years but this year is just a little more special. The relay began in Land’s End on November 1, having already visited Northern Ireland and Jersey, but this year we are relaying further north than we have ever been.

‘We have driving instructors from across the UK joining us for this road trip and everyone is excited to see the amazing scenery Scotland has to offer.’

After covering Scotland, the relay will wind its way back to the National Space Centre in Leicester to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing.

People can still sponsor a spot on Jean O’Brien’s car by getting in contact through her Facebook page or text LAUNCH and the amount to 70085.