Music and football stars among Inverclyde school well-wishers
FAMOUS faces including legendary musician Daniel O’Donnell and former football star Malky Mackay have sent lockdown well wishes to pupils and staff at an Inverclyde school.
A host of celebrities have recorded video messages for Craigmarloch School in Port Glasgow as part of a ‘happiness initiative’ organised by staff.
Irish country music man and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant O’Donnell and ex-Celtic, Norwich, West Ham and Watford player Mackay are among those who have sent videos.
Others such as Scottish actors Colin McCredie and Johnny Mac, Jane McCarry from shows Still Game and Me Too!, and children’s TV favourite Justin Fletcher, aka Mr Tumble, have also read stories or sent messages.
Teacher Collette Brown, who organised the star turns, said: “It’s a wee ‘happiness initiative’ we've been rolling out for the boys and girls of Craigmarloch.
“I've managed to get a few well-known faces, as well as lots of staff members from the school, to either read an evening story or send a well wish to the pupils.
“The idea is that they can settle down with their parents in the evening and watch or listen to the story time. It’s been so lovely.
“The staff have also been doing weekly challenges which is a lot of fun too.”
In his video to the school, singer Daniel O’Donnell said: “I hope you’re getting on okay. It’s difficult in these times with all of the problems because of the virus and maybe you’re not seeing all of your family and friends the way you would like to but you take care, mind yourselves and all the very best to everybody at the school. God bless and take care.”
Ex-footballer Malky Mackay, currently Scottish FA performance director and formerly manager of Watford, Cardiff, Wigan and Scotland caretaker boss, said: “I just want to wish everyone at Craigmarloch the very best. Stay safe, stay healthy and look after each other. All the best from the Scottish FA.”
All staff, including senior management, teachers, learning assistants, janitorial, canteen and office, have also been interacting with pupils and each other during the schools shutdown by hosting things like a virtual sports day, various sing-alongs, music videos and fun online challenges.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s Convener of Education & Communities, said: “Staff at Craigmarloch have done exceptionally well organising an array of fun, interactive, online activities for children and adults alike.
“They’ve really pulled out all the stops by roping in several famous faces to help out and to lift everyone’s spirits during lockdown.
“The work done by all our schools to adapt to the difficulties created by the coronavirus pandemic has been truly remarkable.”
The goodwill messages and storytelling videos are available to view on the Craigmarloch School YouTube channel and Twitter page - @CraigmarlochINV.