Charity bus donated to Hazelwood School in memory of Walter Smith

Variety Scotland has presented a coach to pupils of Hazelwood School in memory of Rangers legend, Walter Smith.

The charity was founded in 1973, and has helped tens of thousands of disabled and disadvantaged children and young people over the last five decades.

The bus was sponsored by the Donna Mortimer Ballantyne Charitable Trust for use of pupils at the school with sensory impairment and complex learning needs.

'Meaningful tribute'

Speaking at the event, former player and Variety Scotland chairman, Gordon Smith, said it was a tremendous honour to present the coach.

He said: “Walter was one of Variety Scotland’s first celebrity ambassadors and hosted many dinners and golf events for us, helping us both to raise the profile of the charity, and raise thousands of pounds to support our work.

“The coach will serve as a meaningful tribute to Walter's memory, helping us to support children and young people in Glasgow with sensory impairment and complex learning needs.

"We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped us to fundraise for the coach, especially to James Mortimer who donated £30k through his late daughter Donna’s trust.”

'This bus is invaluable to us'

Speaking to the club, Collette Gowing, Hazelwood Head of School, added: “We are so honoured and proud that Variety Scotland has chosen us to have this new bus.

“We would not be able to fund this vehicle without their generous support and support from all their donors and partners.

“This bus is invaluable to us.

"Our children and young people will benefit greatly from experiences outside the school building to support their learning, confidence and independence. In particular we were unable to access Glasgow city centre for some time due to the new LEZ rules which is now not a problem.

“Our school caters to a wide range of children and young people with complex needs and the bus arrived adapted for wheelchair access, as well as additional space for other staff and young people to get out and about at the same time.

“The bus can support young people to attend college courses, let children access local parks and museums, and for all at Hazelwood to continue to access our local community. Thank you again."

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