A Tranent teenager has described spending a month with youngsters in Africa as “an incredible experience”.

Gabby Jackson, 19, flew out to Africa earlier last month to take part in the Bhubesi Pride rugby coaching scheme.

The former Scotland under-18s’ women’s rugby player spent a month away, with her time split between Uganda and Kenya, and enjoyed every minute.

She told the Courier: “You can never prepare yourself for something like it, as you never know what to expect, but it was a remarkable adventure.

“There were some shocking sights, but the kindness of the locals always made up for it.

“I would walk down the market and hear numerous people shouting ‘Mazoongo’ [white person] and they would run towards me to shake my hand and welcome me. It’s a memory I will never forget.” Gabby’s trip was the first time she had been out of Scotland without family, and she admitted to being nervous beforehand, and during her first week away.

She added: “The first week I found very difficult – I was still very nervous for the upcoming weeks and just wanted the comfort of my family.

“The boys I stayed with took me in like their little sister and they became my African family.

“I miss them all and I hope the rest of their journey was as good as mine was.” Gabby’s trip was part-funded by the Bill McLaren Foundation – a charity set up in memory of the legendary commentator in 2010 – and took her to more than 10 primary schools to deliver coaching sessions and work with youngsters on devleoping rugby union.

“My favourite part of the trip was seeing how grateful and enthusiastic these kids are, coming from a background where they have next to nothing, but still being able to pull off a smile made it all worthwhile,” she said. “My favourite school was St Thereas’s All Girls School – seeing them running towards me to give me a hug before every session melted my heart and I know I’ll miss them dearly.” Upon her arrival home on Sunday evening, she admitted it was a relief to be reunited with her family.

Gabby said: “I was sad to leave, because everyone made me feel so welcome, but coming through the arrivals gate at Edinburgh [Airport] and seeing my family there waiting for me made me realise how happy I am to be home, and how grateful I am.” After an unforgettable trip to Africa, Gabby now returns to her role as a modern apprentice with Scottish Rugby, and resume her coaching duties at the Capital’s Lismore RFC.