PUPILS and teachers from Clydebank High have donated the highest amount ever by a school to the Beatson Cancer Charity, it has been revealed by our sister paper The Clydebank Post. 

Pupils, teachers, family, friends and the community rallied round to raise £36,730.82 in memory of teacher Dr Graham Simpson, who had leukaemia.

Graham, 57, had taught at Clydebank High since 2001, and has been described by pupils as not only a favourite teacher, but a favourite person.

He was diagnosed with cancer in November 2017 and sadly passed away in December 2019.

That month, hundreds of pupils took part in their third Santa Dash in his honour with that event raising more than £8,000, the previous raising around £7,000 and the first around £21,000.

Graham’s wife Lorraine, who is also a teacher at Clydebank High, said: “Originally when pupils suggested raising funds for the Beatson, myself and Graham were so pleased we could put something back into a local hospital.

“Over the last few years, the pupils have never wavered in their dedication to raising an outstanding amount of money for this hugely important charity.

“More than £36,000 is a simply staggering amount for a school and community to have raised. I know Graham would be so proud of all of those who have given so generously over the years.”

Throughout his treatment, Graham spent a lot of time at Beatson Cancer Charity’s Wellbeing Centre, a space where patients can relax away from the clinical environment during cancer treatments.

And the money raised will go towards making a huge difference in the services the charity offers and in the fight against cancer.

Calum McNair, the Beatson’s challenges and community fundraiser, said: “This is the highest amount a school has ever raised for Beatson Cancer Charity.

“We are overwhelmed at the determination and enthusiasm Clydebank pupils have shown, despite tragic circumstances. They are an inspiration to do this in memory of Graham.

“The impressive total will go directly towards supporting people affected by cancer and those close to them, providing services, as well as funding specialist nurses and ground-breaking research, to ensure a better future for those affected.”