Value in Volunteering: Hugh the Baker

By Jenny Watson

The great banana bread trend during the lockdown of 2020 inspired many budding bakers, however, it was a pineapple upside-down cake that captured the curiosity of teenager Hugh Kelso.

“Hugh was looking through one of my old recipe books from school one day, looking for something to do, when he found the cake recipe,” Marie, Hugh’s mum explained.

Hugh added: “It looked cool so I thought I would try it.

“It turned out great. I kept baking because it gave me something to do. I enjoy it.”

Community Bakers Needed

In November 2022 Hugh started to work towards his Duke of Edinburgh award and chose to improve his baking skills as one of his activities.

It was during this time Hugh saw a post on Facebook from Dumbarton-based The Big Scran, looking for baked goods donations for their Thursday evening meals.

The Big Scran was a weekly community meal run by Ben View centre, in partnership with Blue Triangle, a social care organisation and homelessness charity.

Keara Donnachie from Blue Triangle said: “We usually have around 60-70 people attending; for some, it is the only meal they get that day.

“Hugh would spend a few hours each week baking cakes for the Big Scran.

“His cakes were always amazing in variety, from Easter-themed to Valentine’s Day.”

Baking on average 70 cupcakes per week is not the only volunteering Hugh does.

He is also working towards his Young Leader award through Explorer Scouts and helps at the community gardens in Knoxland with the Cubs.

He participates in weekends away with the Duke of Edinburgh and is also learning to play the guitar and keyboard.

All while still a high school pupil!

Volunteering Rewards

“I’m busy, but it’s fun,” Hugh said.

“Volunteering feels rewarding. You learn new things and you can make new friends.”

The Big Scran is on what will hopefully be a short break.

They are looking for funding and new premises, as it has outgrown Ben View Centre.

Hugh has the whisk at the ready waiting for its return!

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