IT has been a busy time for disability sport, with Scotland’s under- 19 learning disability football team kicking off the defence of their Home Nations crown.

And I’m pleased to report that our Bravehearts secured the title for the third season in a row.

Meanwhile, I was on BBC Radio Scotland to comment about Guy Disney (pictured above) becoming the first amputee jockey to ride over the Grand National fences at Aintree.

Last year, Disney became the first amputee jockey to win at a professional racecourse in Britain, guiding Rattling Rose to victory in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup at Sandown.

The 35-year-old former army captain, who finished 12th at Aintree, is another good role model for disability in sport.

I should also pay tribute to para-athletes from Team Scotland who competed in the recent Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast.

They brought home medals in cycling, bowls and triathlon. Birmingham will be the next city to host the Games, in 2022.

I’d also like to highlight the Scottish Mental Health Arts and Film festival (SMHAF), which covers everything from music, film and visual art to theatre, dance and literature.

It is taking place in venues across Scotland until May 27, supporting the arts and challenging preconceived ideas about mental health.

For more details, visit the website at www.mhfestival.com.
Learning Disability Week is also under way and the theme is ‘My Generation.’

This is a great way for older people with learning disabilities to highlight how much Scotland has changed during their lifetime.

If you are interested in joining East Renfrewshire Disability Action or would like more details on what we do, this can be found on our website at www.erda.org.uk.

Alternatively, send me an email at enquiries@erda.org.uk