Adam takes Young Scot award

Delighted Adam Melville (16), from Birkdale Wood, was presented with the award at last week’s glittering and start-studded ceremony in the Glasgow Hilton after spectacular performances in swimming competitions over the past three years that have seen him break records and represent his country.

Adam has won a total of 15 gold medals, 15 silver medals and eight bronze medals across varying disciplines and competitions, including the Special Olympics in 2009.

The aspiring young athlete, who has learning difficulties, attends Glencryan school and was nominated for the award by the school’s Senior Depute Head, Dorothy Morgan.

Adam said: “I’ve only been swimming for about two or three years after my P.E. Teacher Mrs Kerr suggested I try out. I won two golds in my first event and it’s just gone on from there.

“I love going to events and meeting people and making friends, it’s been really good.

“Its feels brilliant to have won the award and I never expected any of this to happen.”

Adam’s step-dad, Stuart Nicol, was at the ceremony with Adam along with his mother Arlene and was just as surprised as his step-son when he was picked out for the award.

Stuart said: “Adam’s such a talented boy and we’re so proud of him. His teacher nominated him for the award but we had no idea he was going to win, even up until the announcement. “Then Robbie Renwick, the Scottish Commonwealth Games swimmer and gold medal winner, came on stage to announce the winner and we thought to ourselves, wait a minute!

“He’s done so well.”

Dorothy Morgan, Senior Depute Head at Glencryan said that the award not only recognises Adam’s talents as a swimmer but is the perfect reward for the perfect pupil.

“Adam is an excellent ambassador as a young person, not just in his sport, but in anything that he does. He’s a very caring young man,” Dorothy said.

“The swimming has made him much more confident and he’s particularly good at hospitality in the school as well.

“Everyone at the school is absolutely delighted for him.”