Forres Wednesday Night Club member Andrew Conti leaves after 13 years
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A teenager who attended a local social group for school age children with additional support needs for 13 years has said his goodbyes.
Andrew Conti (18) first attended Wednesday Night Club (WNG) at Forres Academy aged just five – the young man left the secondary at the end of last term and is now moving to Camphill, Aberdeenshire to live and work in a supported environment.
WNG leader, Lesley Mawhinney, spoke on behalf of all of the attendees when she said he will be greatly missed.
She added: “He is wished the best of luck in his new vocation. Living and working alongside Andrew will be a pleasure for his new house and workmates!”
Lesley confirmed Andrew was a popular member of WNG who excelled at most activities – especially sport – with a keen sense of fun. Over the years he enjoyed archery at Ardersier, Boccia with S6 Leadership pupils at Forres Academy, team games and obstacle courses, ten-pin bowling, Nerf Wars, Zorbing and go-karting. Andrew also loved arts and crafts and would make his own unique designs from kits on offer at the weekly table during his younger years at the group.
“Andrew also loves to dress up and dance,” remembered Lesley. “We have amazing memories of him dressed as a vampire, presenting his carved out neep and cutting shapes on the dancefloor at our Halloween parties.”
Lesley added that Andrew has a real flare for music and movement. He would perform the ‘Fortnite’ dance at every opportunity, raising smiles at WNG. He even once took centre stage when Dance North provided movement workshops for the group, creating his own moves for others to copy.
“He really was an inspirational leader,” said Lesley. “His sense of fun and acting the part was also evident during our recent tour of the Tolbooth courtroom and jail. Andrew found his forte in the Sheriff’s seat and sent everyone down with real gusto!”
WNG wished Andrew well on his last summer group activity – a visit from the Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue group and a variety of fascinating creatures.
