A national retailer is dedicating the opening of its new GO Outdoors Clydebank superstore to a school teacher from Old Drumchapel.
Aileen Douthwaite’s ambitious trek on the Great Wall of China last October caught the eye of GO Outdoors judges. Her ten-day challenge saw her walk through some of the most spectacular terrain in the world and raise more than £3,000 for St Margaret’s Hospice in Clydebank.
The French horn expert, who is currently teaching in Dumbarton Academy and Knoxland Primary, teaches music to children across West Dunbartonshire in her role as the council’s Education support officer for Music Instruction.
Aileen will receive her Clydebank Outdoor Adventurer of the Year trophy from store manager Paul Davidson on Saturday 27th March at the new Clydebank GO Outdoors superstore on the site – formerly occupied by Megabowl – on Livingstone Street.
Aileen Douthwaite said,
"It’s a wonderful surprise to receive this award from GO Outdoors. I’ve always had an eye for adventurous challenges. And this was one of the toughest yet. We were walking for nine hours on most days. And I had to conquer my fear of creepie crawlies too! But I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
"It’s spectacular scenery out there. I like to think that if I can get out there and have these experiences then anyone can. I can’t wait for my next challenge and hope to climb Kilimnajrao for my next test!"
Aileen’s adventurous accolade came after GO Outdoors appealed to local groups or individuals to nominate inspirational Clydebank people who have faced an outdoor challenge – or used outdoor pursuits to benefit the local community.
GO Outdoors superstore manager Paul Davidson,
“We wanted to celebrate the achievements of local outdoor adventurer who would inspire others to enjoy the outdoors. And Aileen’s adventures in Clydebank are a shining example of how an active lifestyle and a passion for the outdoors can make real difference to both her lives and the lives of the people she has raised money for."
Anyone who wishes to donate can go to www.justgiving.com/aileendouthwaite.
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