Crohn's community champion Angus

Angus McLean has been named as a Community Champion for Crohns and Colitis UK.

Launching a new level of ambassador to the charity, Angus is one of the first to be recognised following his considerable fundraising and awareness raising for the organisation which supports those affect by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2006, Angus has been extremely supportive of Crohn’s and Colitis UK’s work for eight years and has significantly helped to raise the profile of the conditions in Scotland.

And not only is he a fundraiser, Edinburgh group volunteer and coordinated groups’ treasurer, the 45-year-old is also a keen runner and has completed 19 marathons in the past 12 years.

Angus, of Edinburgh, said: “I have first-hand experience of what it is like being newly diagnosed with IBD and the impact that the symptoms can have on day to day life.

“It can be a frightening and lonely experience. I found that very few people had an understanding of these conditions and was keen to meet others in my local area affected by IBD in order to share experiences and receive and provide support. I jumped at the chance to join the Edinburgh group in 2008 and have been volunteering ever since.”

“There has been a marked increase in the number of people living with IBD in recent years, particularly in Scotland, but I feel there is still a lack of awareness and understanding among the general population.

“I want to use my new role to encourage more people to speak out about their experiences, offer support, understanding and friendship to others.

“The Crohn’s and Colitis UK community offers a very welcoming environment where support, sharing and understanding are key features. I would like to see more people become a part of this network by becoming a member of Crohn’s and Colitis UK.”

David Barker, chief executive at Crohn’s and Colitis UK said: Our new community champions will reflect everyday supporters who are making a huge difference to the charity and the wider IBD community. I am thrilled that Angus is one of our first community champions and that he will encourage and inspire others.

“Our close community is our biggest strength and we would not be able to do the work we do without it. There are people doing incredible things everyday and launching the community champion programme is our way of recognising that.”

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause ulceration and inflammation in the colon and any part of the digestive system. Symptoms of the chronic conditions include severe pain, extreme fatigue and dramatic weight loss