A familiar face to many across Glasgow is preparing to swap everyday routines for rehearsals, rhythm, and a little bit of sparkle as he takes part in Strictly Kilbryde, raising vital funds for Kilbryde Hospice.
Paul McGill who is well known locally through his work with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde as well as running his own travel website, is one of eight contestants stepping onto the dancefloor for the glittering charity event taking place this May in Glasgow.
We caught up with him to talk dancing nerves, community support and why this challenge means so much.
Many people in Glasgow will already know you — can you tell us a bit about what you do at NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde? I wear many hats within the service, and they would definitely laugh if you asked them this question, they would say the man of many talents, that does every job within the service except GP.😂👏
I am a part time healthcare support worker, and an out of hours controller / dispatcher who arranges the home visits for sick patients who can’t attend an out of hours appointment at the centres or hospital, I liaise with GP’s so that they can attend a patients house, and provide medical care services at home.
I am also a part time receptionist and security personnel at the GP Out Of Hours Centre.
I’m also currently a full time student studying adult nursing, I am at Clyde College Cardonald Campus, I have been there since August; and I begin my University degree at UWS Lanarkshire University in September.
How would friends describe you in three words? Fun, Direct, Supportive.
Do you have a personal connection to Kilbryde Hospice or the work they do? No not personally, but I’ve been touched by cancer and end of life health issues within my family, and I have come to learn all about Kilbryde Hospice and the work that they deliver on a daily basis from my cousin May and Robert Miller.
May and Robert have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Kilbryde hospice over the years, they also run an annual Gay Ball and raise funds for the hospice.
I have since learned all about the amazing work and charity fundraising that takes place at Kilbryde hospice, I have researched the great work that the medical and administrative staff do on a daily basis.
Have you ever danced before this — or is this completely new to you? This is completely new, and I can’t believe I’m going to be doing this. But it’s good to push yourself and do new things.
How are rehearsals going so far? Rehearsals are going very well , Mario my partner is an excellent dance choreographer and teacher, he is strict and keeps me in check; just what I need.
On a scale of 1–10, how competitive are you? 10 Very competitive.
If you could swap partners with any Strictly celebrity dancer who would it be? Aljaz Skorjanex⭐️
What song would be your dream dance track? Respect Aretha Franklin or Ain’t no stopping by Luther Vandross.
How has the Glasgow community supported you so far? The Glasgow community are being supportive but not enough, I want to raise a lot of money to support the charity and the hospice.
What would you say to someone thinking about supporting or attending? Do it, get your purse out, phone up and book a ticket or make a donation. Every single penny helps; and it’s going be an amazing night. Get your gladrags looked out for the big glamorous ball.
What are you most looking forward to on the big night? Winning 🥇 🏆 and having fun.
Who will be in the audience cheering you on? Everyone, 40 family and friends. We have filled 4 tables already. But Most of all my husband Kenny there supporting me.
If you could sum up this experience in three words, what would they be? Fun, Amazing and Worth it. 👌
People of Glasgow and all over can support Paul, by buying a ticket for the evening or donating here https://www.justgiving.com/page/paul-mcgill-5?
