Star ovation for star performer

UK: Fresh from leading the British wheelchair curling team to a bronze medal at the Winter Paralympics in Sochi, local hero Aileen Neilson recently dropped in on Star Refrigeration in Glasgow.

Receiving a hero’s welcome, Aileen received a standing ovation from over 100 staff and was congratulated by director Alan Walkinshaw with flowers and champagne.

Staff at Star had the chance to admire the Bronze medal and be motivated by her general approach to life and winning attitude.

“Particularly for people who find themselves with a disability and sometimes think that that’s their life over, I can truly say that being in a wheelchair has actually given me so many more opportunities and a chance to travel all over the world through sport and meet loads of fantastic people,” she said.

Commenting on her journey to Sochi, she said: “The Paralympics Games in Sochi 2014 was a roller coaster ride – highs, lows and finally triumph – a Bronze medal. I have been overwhelmed by the support before, during and after the Games from family, friends and complete strangers. It is only through the belief and support from many organisations and companies such as Star Refrigeration, that have enabled us to realise our dream.”

Aileen thanked the company for supporting wheelchair curling by sponsoring the Scottish Wheelchair Pairs Curling Championships at Braehead, for almost a decade. The games take place at Braehead’s eight sheet curling rink every year and Aileen has competed several times, taking home the top prize with partner Jim Taylor at the 2008 championships.