Badminton star Diane Gillan has been nominated for a Pride of Scotland award due to her community work during the Covid pandemic.
The Whitehills woman was nominated for the Special Recognition category of the 2021 awards by Dr Lisa Cameron, MP for East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow.
During the pandemic, when badminton was shut down, Diane volunteered every day at the local ‘Share Alike’ foodbank, despite suffering from Crohn’s disease and having autism.
In nominating her, Dr Cameron said: “Diane Gillan is a true embodiment of the ‘Pride of Scotland’.
“She has devoted her life to serving her local community in several wys and capacities.
“During the pandemic she filled her time volunteering at the ‘Share Alike’ foodbank, packing vital food parcels and picking up and delivering food to the most needy and vulnerable throughout the EK community.
“She worked several evenings and weekends throughout the entire pandemic, continuing to serve her local community.”
Diane has competed at the Special Olympics, winning gold medals five times for Scotland, and hopes for her sixth in Liverpool later this year.
A multiple winner at the EK and South Lanarkshire Sports Disability Awards over the years, Diane has competed in the Four Nations Paralympic Championships at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility in Motherwell, winning gold in ladies class one singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
On top of this, Diane finds time to volunteer at the Dollan Aqua Centre.
Dr Cameron added: “Diane is a local champion whose achievements have made East Kilbride extremely proud for a very long time. She has overcome personal adversity and always goes the extra mile to help others every day, including during this pandemic.
“I wish Diane every success in her nomination and in her future achievements, of which I am sure there will be many.”
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