28 Years Later: From Danny Boyle to Young Fathers, all of the series' Scottish connections
Scottish-born actress Emma Laird also appears in 28 Years Later as Jimmima. Much like Al Al Ruffai, she will also appear in the next instalment of the series. Laird has previously appeared in shows such as Mayor of Kingston and films such as A Haunting in Venice and she will soon star in Scotland-set BBC drama Mint. | AFP via Getty Images
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The Herald Scotland
an hour ago
- The Herald Scotland
Famous Hampshire-based celebrities including Colin Firth
There are also quite a few people born here who have gone on to great success in their careers. From esteemed actors to broadcasters, chefs, and more, Hampshire has never shied away from its celebrity connections. With that in mind, here are nine celebrities who have some link to Hampshire, whether they have lived or have grown up in the county. 9 celebrities with connections to Hampshire Alan Titchmarsh Alan Titchmarsh has a home near Alton in Hampshire (Image: James Manning/PA Wire) The gardener and broadcaster Alan Titchmarsh is a well-known face on British TV thanks to his work on Gardeners' World, Love Your Garden and his self-titled chat show. The 76-year-old moved to Hampshire with his wife Alison back in 2002, living in a Grade II-listed Georgian farmhouse near Alton. Colin Firth Colin Firth was born in the village of Grayshott in Hampshire in 1960, with both his parents being lecturers at King Alfred's College (now the University of Winchester). Colin Firth was born in the village of Grayshott (Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire) He attended school in Winchester and Eastleigh before joining the National Youth Theatre in London. Firth is now one of Britain's most prominent actors, having featured in films such as the Bridget Jones series, two Mamma Mia films, the Kingsman series, The King's Speech and much more. Amanda Holden Amanda Holden grew up in the town of Bishop's Waltham and has since gone on to have prominent roles in UK media. Amanda Holden grew up in Bishop's Waltham (Image: Ian West/PA Wire) Many will know her for being a judge on Britain's Got Talent, alongside her work on Heart Radio with Jamie Theakston. James Martin The chef and TV presenter James Martin, who is known for his work on Saturday Kitchen among other shows, used to have a home in the Hampshire village of Stoke Charity. Although he has since sold the high-end converted dairy, he is still said to live near the same area. Chris Packham The TV presenter and naturalist Chris Packham was born in Southampton and is known for fronting the BBC nature series Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Winterwatch. The 64-year-old has a home in the New Forest where he enjoys walking his dogs in the surrounding woodland. Dame Esther Rantzen Dame Esther Rantzen is a journalist and presenter who fronted the BBC television series That's Life! for 21 years, from 1973 until 1994. She is also known for her charitable work, having set up Childline in 1986 and The Silver Line in 2012. The 84-year-old now has a home in the New Forest, which she enjoys sharing with her grandchildren. Craig David The singer Craig David was born and grew up in Southampton, living on the Holyrood estate. His ninth studio album is set to release in August 2025, and the 44-year-old has been behind hits including '7 Days', 'Fill Me In' and 'Insomnia'. Scott Mills Another famous person with links to Southampton is the radio DJ and presenter Scott Mills. He is best known for presenting the Scott Mills show on BBC Radio 1 from 2004 to 2022. Recommended reading: Nowadays, he hosts BBC Radio 2's flagship breakfast show, which he has done since January 2025. Elizabeth Hurley The actress and model Elizabeth Hurley was born in Basingstoke and grew up in the Hampshire town. She is known for her roles in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, Bedazzled and Passenger 57.
Wales Online
2 hours ago
- Wales Online
Welsh town that famous actors call home named one of the most affordable places to live
Welsh town that famous actors call home named one of the most affordable places to live In the shadow of the steelworks lies a town that is full of hidden gems Aberavon Beach is known to be one of the longest beaches in Wales (Image: John Myers ) Ask anyone what springs to mind when they think of Port Talbot, and chances are you'll hear the same answer echo back - the steelworks. Towering chimneys and plumes of steam that have long defined the town's skyline. Yet beyond the shadow of this great steel giant, lies a different side of Port Talbot that many people who are not local to the area, may not even know about. One that is rich with natural beauty, local history and hidden gems waiting to be explored. With that in mind, it shouldn't be shocking that recent research from the online property company Zoopla has revealed Port Talbot as one of the most popular, affordable places to live in Great Britain. The famously industrial town ranked fourth in a list, based on how often three-bedroom homes were viewed online, combined with how affordable those homes are compared to local earnings. Port Talbot sits just behind Neath, Llanelli, and the Scottish town of Glenrothes, proving it's more than just steel drawing attention. One of those reasons is Afan Argoed, also known as Afan Country Park - a haven for walkers and cyclists with its miles of scenic trails, winding through the Valley's ever changing landscape. This place was a childhood favourite of mine that holds memories of long dog walks with my granddad and rare sunny day picnics down Rhyslyn car park. Afan Valley - locally known as Afan Argoed is known for its fantastic walking and cycling trails (Image: Forestry Commission Picture Library/Isobel Cameron ) Article continues below Speaking of Rhyslan car park, this is also the starting point of a fantastic walking trail, that certainly put me in my paces growing up. The route forms a figure of eight, giving walkers the choice to complete the full loop or opt for one half - perfect if you're after a shorter, three-mile stroll. The first section is a treat for fans of Richard Burton, guiding you past landmarks tied to the legendary actor who was born just down the road in Pontrhydyfen. As a kid, reaching the portrait bench was always a bit of a milestone - a quiet clearing where three steel figures stand proud: Mr Burton himself, Gavin and Stacey actor Rob Brydon and former Afan Valley head ranger Dick Wagstaff. The sculptures were chosen by the local community and installed in 2010 by the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans. Just beside the figures, visitors will find a small but powerful surprise - a listening post that plays a snippet of Richard Burton's iconic voice, reading Dylan Thomas' famous poem: Under Milk Wood. To hear his rich, haunting tones echo so close to where he once roamed is a moment that sticks with you. A trail is available in Afan Argoed in tribute to honour legendary Hollywood actor Richard Burton (Image: Martin Ellard ) The second loop of the trail leads deeper in the heart of the Afan Valley's forest, where the tall evergreens and fern-lined parks makes it easy to see why the area is often called 'Little Switzerland'. Beyond that, there are many other trails for cyclists and walkers just waiting to be explored. Stay informed on everything Neath Port Talbot by signing up to our newsletter here Aberavon Beach needs little introduction; it is a beloved stretch of coastline that has been drawing both locals and visitors for generations. With its long, sweeping sands and a sleek modern promenade overlooking Swansea bay, it's easy to see why it remains a firm favourite. That being said, the reintroduced parking charges have taken a bit of a shine off for some - but its still hard to stay away, especially during these flashes of warm weather. The beach itself is huge - one of the longest in Wales - and provides endless activities for all ages. The northern end is usually alive with sand yachting and kitesurfing making the most of the wind and waves. There is nothing better than a trip to Aberavon Beach on a warm summer's day (Image: John Myers ) What I love most about this beach is how it's a proper family spot. There are two decent play parks that provide safe, fun spaces for children to burn off energy, although Aberavon Aqua Splash might be the real highlight - complete with fountains, jets and "waterfalls" that is the perfect relief during those blistering (albeit rare) heatwaves. A site that must be a part of every local's childhood is the iconic blue whale and penguin statutes that you can check out during your walk along the beach. These relics have been here for as long as I can remember - if you know, you know. For those older kids, there's also crazy golf on the beachfront, which is a good laugh and of course the Reel Cinema; my absolute go-to. Rarely crowded, with a good choice of snacks and the added bonus of being able to wander straight onto the beach after a film for an ice cream - what's not to love? Reel Cinema sits on Aberavon seafront and for me, one of the best around (Image: Google ) Dog owners aren't left out either. While the main beach is not available to dogs during the summer months, the strong line up of cafes and restaurants are more than welcoming. Francos - a popular fish and chip shop, that is a highlight of any beach trip - is completely dog-friendly, offering your furry companion their own menu and abundance of water bowls. Memo Beach Café and Café Remos also welcomes dogs. These are the perfect places to stop for some lunch and coffee, while your dog chills at your side. Personally, a trip to Cafe Remos always has to involve their freshly made ice cream - their strawberry cones are a ten out of ten. Meanwhile, there is also The Front, which has grown quite popular over the years for their tasty burgers and reasonable prices. It's just next door to cinema and even has it's own drive-thru, which is sometimes a must as it's always super busy. If you asked most people about the best spots in Port Talbot, I am willing to bet that Aberafan Shopping Centre wouldn't be too high on the list. But I'm going to say it... there's actually quite a lot going for this place! The ageing shopping centre may be under some scrutiny, but there's a lot to love there (Image: Richard Williams ) One of its biggest claims to fame right now is Spud Fam, a baked potato business that's been making waves on TikTok. The shop is a real family operation - owned by Jordanna Landeg and her husband David, with Jordanna's brother Jude and their mum - all pitching in. Their videos give a behind-the-scenes look at the day to day running of the shop, including some of the interesting spud combos and orders that they serve up; showing just how creative - and delicious - a loaded potato can be. With a loyal following of over 12,000 on TikTok, they've made a name for themselves with their ridiculously loaded baked potatoes and fries. From classic cheese and beans to more adventurous options like beef brisket and their very own "Spud Fam's Bol", they've turned simple comfort food into something a bit more fun. Also in the shopping centre is Portablo Coffi, a coffee shop run by former steelworker Cassius. Opening at the start of this year, its already become a staple of the town thanks to its great coffee and warm, welcoming atmosphere. A wander round B and M's and Home Bargains with a coffee in one hand and a spud from your local independents in the other... sometimes it really is the simple things in life. Just a short drive from Port Talbot, lies Margam Country Park; which while not part of Port Talbot itself, is close enough to feel like an extension of the area's history. At the centre of Margam Park is the magnificent 19th century Tudor Gothic mansion, designed by architect Thomas Hopper for Christopher Rice Mansel Talbot. Built between 1830 and 1840, this Grade I listed mansion is packed with stunning features, from its soaring staircase hall to the distinctive octagonal tower. Margam Castle and it's estate was once owned by the illustrious Talbot family (Image: Robert Melen ) Margam Castle's outbuildings now house the Visitor Centre, which includes a café, gift shop and other handy facilities. Visitors can also explore the Entrance Hallway and the grand Staircase Hall, stepping back into much more opulent times. As a child, I remember Margam being the subject of plenty of ghost stories - the kind that made passing by places like the Castle and Margam Monastery a little spine-tingling. However, those eerie feelings have faded with time, replaced by a real sense of wonder at this beautiful, historic spot. There's lots more to see during a visit to Margam Park beyond the Castle itself. One of my childhood haunts was the Fairytale Village - which although a bit crusty and dusty, still has a certain charm. I loved wandering through, checking out the miniature houses inspired by classic folklore tales. For families, another must is the farm trail. It offers the chance to get up close to a variety of animals from alpacas and donkeys to pigs and pygmy goats. Even in my twenties, I had to take a stroll round there during a recent visit - although I will warn visitors to not go too close to those gates as I was almost victim to alpaca spit! Visitors to Margam also have the opportunity to feed the alpacas (Image: Margam Country Park ) My last bit of advice when visiting is - if you ever get the chance, don't miss the outdoor cinema experience. Watching a film beneath the shadow of Margam Castle is something magical; the atmosphere and setting make it an unforgettable night. Article continues below
Daily Mail
3 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Swimming like Vikings or sleeping like cavemen, ruling the tennis court and romping with royals: when it comes to non-fiction...We've Got Your Summer Reading Sorted!
How To Sleep Like A Caveman by Merijn van de Laar (William Collins £20, 304pp) What is worse than being sunburnt, all your clothes smelling of suncream, and finding sand in every crevice? Being sunburnt, all your clothes smelling of suncream, finding sand in every crevice... and not being able to sleep. Happily, Merijn van de Laar can provide the solution to this holiday nightmare: be more caveman. Discover all the ways our forebears got it right (sleeping when tired, rather than when they thought they should, for example) and the fascinating fact that, until the enforced working routines of the Industrial Revolution, people didn't really experience insomnia. KS Swimming With The Viking Of Skye Richard Waters (Aurum £17.99, 256pp) When Richard Waters discovered his Viking lineage in a DNA test he decided to plunge himself into one of the less violent traditions of his ancestors: cold-water swimming. Diagnosed with Parkinson's in his early 40s, he finds unparalleled relief for his physical and mental health in the chilly waters of the Highlands. In this moving book Waters swims us through the rockpools, waterfalls and coves of Skye, as well as introducing us to a man as hardy as the Norsemen who conquered the island so many centuries ago. JCD No Filters by Christie Watson and Rowan Egberongbe (Chatto & Windus £14.99, 192pp) Having a teen in the house all summer might feel daunting but this book is an insightful, if tough, read for any struggling parent. When Christie Watson's 16-year-old daughter Rowan was refusing to speak to her, she had to learn a whole different means of communicating. What began as a daily Snapchat message evolved into a new-found closeness. This engaging book sheds light on the boggling number of mental health issues faced by today's teenagers, many of which most parents know little about. KS John & Paul by Ian Leslie (Faber & Faber £25, 432pp) Music history is full of relationships that crash and burn in a cacophony of vicious headlines, backstabbing and (if we're lucky) a revenge song or two – Sonny and Cher, ABBA and perhaps the most spectacular break-up of them all, John and Paul. This spellbinding biography of the two men behind The Beatles takes you through the dizzying highs and crashing lows of their 13-year bromance and the break-up that changed the course of music forever. JCD How Not To Be A Political Wife by Sarah Vine (HarperElement £20, 320pp) As a Mail columnist and former political wife, Vine is a force to be reckoned with – no wonder her memoir sent shockwaves through British politics. She gives us a fascinating insight into being raised by a narcissistic father, her 20-year marriage to Michael Gove as he rose from Tory MP to Cabinet minister and prime ministerial contender, and the explosive end to her friendship with Samantha Cameron. Funny and heartwarming, this is a revealing, and riveting, look behind the scenes of the personal politics of Westminster. KS Going Nuclear by Tim Gregory (Bodley Head £25, 384pp) For most of us, nuclear means mushroom clouds, Chernobyl and Mr Burns. Certainly, something to be afraid of, not welcomed. However, in this delightful book by nuclear scientist and apologist Dr Tim Gregory, we are urged to reframe our relationship with nuclear power or face extinction. He peppers his convincing argument with surprisingly enchanting anecdotes from the glowing history of nuclear power. JCD The Warrior by Christopher Clarey (John Murray £22, 368pp) This is the first year since 2004 that the King of Clay has not graced Paris's Roland Garros with his presence. Christopher Clarey's comprehensive biography of Rafael Nadal's career takes us from his early days in Majorca being coached by his Uncle Toni to his dominance as part of the big three alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, proving himself as one of the greatest players of all time. Rafa's humility and sportsmanship shine in this glowing portrait that also abounds with wider tennis trivia. KS The Slow Road North by Rosie Schaap (Mariner £20, 272pp) When Rosie Schapp found herself a widow at 39, she didn't know where to turn. Eventually, she decided to pack up her troubles, and her flat in New York, to travel through Europe. Still weighed down by grief, a chance conversation with a stranger in Belfast somehow lightened her sorrow. Before long she had traded the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple for a Georgian cottage in Glenarm, Northern Ireland. This gentle memoir shows how her new friends and neighbours helped dig her out of her grief and made her capable of love again. JCD Queen James by Gareth Russell (William Collins £25, 496pp) Not many wives would be pleased to hear that their husband had embarked upon an affair with someone much younger who was said to possess 'the finest legs in Christendom'. She might be doubly irritated to discover that these fabulous legs belonged to a man. However, Queen Anne, wife of King James I, was delighted. Anything to keep temperamental James happy. This is just one of the fantastic tales in this royal romp through the treacherous and flagrantly gay court of King James I. JCD Shaolin Spirit by Shi Heng Yi (Particular Books £25, 288pp) If the 'cultivation of vitality and strength' appeals to you this summer, be prepared to push 'physical and mental limits you will never have encountered before'. Or at least that is the promise of Shaolin Master Shi Heng Yi. Through his meditative practices that reconnect the mind and body, you can tap in to a 1,500-year-old way of life to discover more energy and greater peace of mind. Although you might not be able to bend a spear by pressing down on the pointed end with your throat, as Shi Heng Yi himself can, by September. KS Story Of A Murder by Hallie Rubenhold (Doubleday £25, 512pp) More often than not, True Crime is more gory than fiction, and that is certainly the case with the tale of Dr Crippen. Medical fraudster, terrible husband and murderer – is there anything this man can't do? Rubenhold chooses to focus on the women in the doctor's life: the wife he murdered, music-hall starlet Belle Elmore, and his typist and lover Ethel Le Neve. Not one for those with a weak stomach, this uncovers a dark side to humanity that many will find fascinating. KS Dave & Me by Lili Myers (Ebury Spotlight £22, 304pp) The Hairy Bikers, made up of Dave Myers and Si King, were hugely loved as much for their humour and camaraderie as their cooking. When Dave died last year after suffering from cancer, 46,000 bikers drove from London to Barrow-in-Furness in tribute to him. Now his widow, Lili, gives an emotive and intimate account of the love and life they shared for 20 years. KS Allies At War by Tim Bouverie (Bodley Head £25, 688pp) Defeating the Nazis required the UK to make strange bedfellows. An otherwise inconceivable alliance had to be hastily made with Stalin, while even the 'special relationship' with America was fraught with difficulty and ended up costing Britain an awful lot of money to maintain. This glorious book alters the focus of the war and reveals that navigating the many traps and pitfalls in the shifting diplomatic sands imposed by friends and allies was almost harder than actually confronting the enemy. JCD Affairs by Juliet Rosenfeld (Bluebird £20, 288pp) Do you fancy a clandestine summer fling? You're not alone. As Juliet Rosenfeld reveals, one in five of us will have an affair at some point. Putting her psychotherapist skills to good use, Rosenfeld takes us through five different adulterous scenarios and examines what pushes people to commit this greatest of relationship sins. Not a guide for cheaters, but this book might help you spot one... KS The Buried City by Gabriel Zuchtriegel (Hodder £22, 256pp) If you're heading for a scorcher in the Italian sun, spare a thought for the poor people of Pompeii. There was no sun cream strong enough or sun hat wide enough to protect them from the fiery heat that pummelled their city into oblivion. The city, frozen in time, is still bursting with undiscovered secrets and at the helm of these discoveries is Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii archaeological park. This is an unparalleled tour through a city that has fascinated and bewildered us for 2,000 years. JCD The Ageless Brain by Dale Bredesen (Vermilion £22, 384pp) It is never too early to start looking after your brain's health. In clear steps Dr Dale Bredesen explains exactly how to keep your brain just as sharp at 100 as it was at 20. From actions as simple as maintaining your oral hygiene or completing a daily sudoku, to learning a new language and cutting out sugar – there are so many things we can all do to retain our cognitive function. KS Source Code by Bill Gates Allen Lane £25, 336pp How do you become the richest man in the world? In this memoir of his early years, Bill Gates makes it seem easy. Key ingredients include cleverness, awkwardness with a sprinkling of ferocity, and most importantly of all, a reliance on the beneficence of adults. Turns out a tragic backstory certainly isn't necessary. Bill Gates, King of Nerds, was even popular at school! JCD The Light Of Day by Christopher Stephens (Headline £20, 400pp) 'Sir, we are homosexuals…'. So began the letter that scandalised Britain in 1960. This criminal confession (homosexuality wasn't decriminalised until 1967) was sent to several newspapers and signed 'Roger Butler'. This is the story of the heroism and fierce battles fought by the first man in England to choose to publicly come out. The author, while still at university, befriended the aged Butler and has faithfully and beautifully told the story of this extraordinary man. JCD
