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Scotsman
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
British Sewing Bee judge installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist honoured at QMU graduation ceremony
On 7th July '25, the designer, entrepreneur and TV judge, Patrick Grant, was officially installed as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh at the University's graduation ceremony. Patrick, who became a household name following his appearances as a judge of BBC One's 'The Great British Sewing Bee', was joined by Carol Rogers, Scotland's leading forensic scientist. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was awarded an honorary degree for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Both Patrick and Carol joined 2000 students, families and guests at an impressive ceremony in Edinburgh's Usher Hall. Patrick Grant A prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick Grant is an advocate for sustainability and building strong communities through entrepreneurship. Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book 'Less', published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Carol Rogers, Patrick Grant and Sir Paul Grice Over the past two decades, Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality. He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men's tailoring brand E. Tautz - winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards - and led Debenhams' most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co. In 2015, his passion for British manufacturing resulted in the rescue of Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg. This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing's makes and sells UK clothing at a fraction of the price of premium brands, and has a strong focus on sustainability, job creation and building local economic prosperity. Patrick has also become a familiar face on television. In addition to the 'The Great British Sewing Bee' (nominated for a BAFTA in 2022), he presented the award-winning documentary 'Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King', appeared on BBC Radio 4's 'Desert Island Discs', and won BBC One's 'Celebrity Mastermind'. He has written for a variety of publications, including The Financial Times, The Times, The Sun, The Daily Mail and GQ. Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'Patrick has had a meaningful and hugely impactful career as a designer, entrepreneur, writer and sustainability champion. His work resonates with the University's strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU's purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Carol Rogers – Forensic operation lead - Major Crime (Sexual Offences) As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority's Forensic Services, Carol Rogers has advanced forensic science, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences. As one of the most respected experts in her field, Carol has dedicated over two decades of her life to the meticulous and often harrowing work of forensics. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences. Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary 'The Hunt for Peter Tobin' where she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer's crime scene – work which led to his successful conviction. Carol's expertise in blood pattern analysis, body fluid analysis, damage interpretation, and DNA interpretation has been instrumental in solving some of Scotland's most notorious crimes. Her ability to provide expert testimony in court has been crucial in securing convictions and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, bringing closure to victims and their families. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'We cannot underestimate the impact that Carol Rogers' progressive work has had on the profession of forensic science, and on the thousands of individuals and families' lives affected by leadership of teams has helped set standards in forensic services, and her work has been pivotal in advancing forensic techniques and methodologies, ensuring the profession evolves and improves. She has also drawn on her expertise as a forensic scientist and expert witness, working on cases from 'crime scene to court', to assist Queen Margaret University in the development of its PgCert Advanced Forensic Practice. Launched in 2021, this specialist course enables already experienced forensic practitioners to work at an advanced level in Police Custody and Sexual Assault Referral Coordination Services (SARCS).'
Scotsman
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
British Sewing Bee judge installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist honoured at QMU graduation ceremony
On 7th July '25, the designer, entrepreneur and TV judge, Patrick Grant, was officially installed as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh at the University's graduation ceremony. Patrick, who became a household name following his appearances as a judge of BBC One's 'The Great British Sewing Bee', was joined by Carol Rogers, Scotland's leading forensic scientist. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was awarded an honorary degree for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Both Patrick and Carol joined 2000 students, families and guests at an impressive ceremony in Edinburgh's Usher Hall. Patrick Grant A prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick Grant is an advocate for sustainability and building strong communities through entrepreneurship. Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book 'Less', published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Carol Rogers, Patrick Grant and Sir Paul Grice Over the past two decades, Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality. He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men's tailoring brand E. Tautz - winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards - and led Debenhams' most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co. In 2015, his passion for British manufacturing resulted in the rescue of Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg. This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing's makes and sells UK clothing at a fraction of the price of premium brands, and has a strong focus on sustainability, job creation and building local economic prosperity. Patrick has also become a familiar face on television. In addition to the 'The Great British Sewing Bee' (nominated for a BAFTA in 2022), he presented the award-winning documentary 'Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King', appeared on BBC Radio 4's 'Desert Island Discs', and won BBC One's 'Celebrity Mastermind'. He has written for a variety of publications, including The Financial Times, The Times, The Sun, The Daily Mail and GQ. Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'Patrick has had a meaningful and hugely impactful career as a designer, entrepreneur, writer and sustainability champion. His work resonates with the University's strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU's purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Patrick Grant, now Chancellor of QMU Carol Rogers – Forensic operation lead - Major Crime (Sexual Offences) As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority's Forensic Services, Carol Rogers has advanced forensic science, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences. As one of the most respected experts in her field, Carol has dedicated over two decades of her life to the meticulous and often harrowing work of forensics. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences. Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary 'The Hunt for Peter Tobin' where she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer's crime scene – work which led to his successful conviction. Carol's expertise in blood pattern analysis, body fluid analysis, damage interpretation, and DNA interpretation has been instrumental in solving some of Scotland's most notorious crimes. Her ability to provide expert testimony in court has been crucial in securing convictions and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, bringing closure to victims and their families. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Patrick Grant and Sir Paul Grice Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'We cannot underestimate the impact that Carol Rogers' progressive work has had on the profession of forensic science, and on the thousands of individuals and families' lives affected by leadership of teams has helped set standards in forensic services, and her work has been pivotal in advancing forensic techniques and methodologies, ensuring the profession evolves and improves. She has also drawn on her expertise as a forensic scientist and expert witness, working on cases from 'crime scene to court', to assist Queen Margaret University in the development of its PgCert Advanced Forensic Practice. Launched in 2021, this specialist course enables already experienced forensic practitioners to work at an advanced level in Police Custody and Sexual Assault Referral Coordination Services (SARCS).' Sir Paul Grice concluded: 'In the year that we celebrate Queen Margaret University's 150th anniversary, we are honoured to have two such inspirational individuals at the first of our three 2025 graduation ceremonies. We are delighted to officially install Patrick Grant as our new Chancellor, and to recognise Carol Rogers dedication and unwavering commitment to justice with the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.'
Edinburgh Reporter
07-07-2025
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
New chancellor installed at Queen Margaret University ceremony
Patrick Grant was installed as the new chancellor of Queen Margaret University on Monday at a ceremony at Usher Hall when an honorary degree for the work done in convicting murderer, Peter Tobin, was conferred. Mr Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing. He is an advocate for sustainability and also promotes using entrepreneurship to build strong communities. Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book 'Less', published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion. During the last 20 years Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality. He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men's tailoring brand E. Tautz – winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards – and led Debenhams' most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co. Ten years ago he was involved in the rescue of Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg. This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing's makes and sells UK clothing at a fraction of the price of premium brands, and has a strong focus on sustainability, job creation and building local economic prosperity. Patrick has also become a familiar face on television appearing on 'The Great British Sewing Bee' and also as a presenter of the award-winning documentary 'Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King'. He has appeared on BBC Radio 4's 'Desert Island Discs', and won BBC One's 'Celebrity Mastermind'. He has also written articles for a variety of publications, including The Financial Times, The Times, The Sun, The Daily Mail and GQ. Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'Patrick has had a meaningful and hugely impactful career as a designer, entrepreneur, writer and sustainability champion. His work resonates with the University's strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU's purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.' Honorary degree for Carol Rogers As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority's Forensic Services, Carol Rogers has advanced forensic science, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences. As one of the most respected experts in her field, Carol has dedicated over two decades of her life to the meticulous and often harrowing work of forensics. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences. Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary 'The Hunt for Peter Tobin' when she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer's crime scene – work which led to his successful conviction. Carol's expertise in blood pattern analysis, body fluid analysis, damage interpretation, and DNA interpretation has been instrumental in solving some of Scotland's most notorious crimes. Her ability to provide expert testimony in court has been crucial in securing convictions and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, bringing closure to victims and their families. Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'We cannot underestimate the impact that Carol Rogers' progressive work has had on the profession of forensic science, and on the thousands of individuals and families' lives affected by leadership of teams has helped set standards in forensic services, and her work has been pivotal in advancing forensic techniques and methodologies, ensuring the profession evolves and improves. She has also drawn on her expertise as a forensic scientist and expert witness, working on cases from 'crime scene to court', to assist Queen Margaret University in the development of its PgCert Advanced Forensic Practice. Launched in 2021, this specialist course enables already experienced forensic practitioners to work at an advanced level in Police Custody and Sexual Assault Referral Coordination Services (SARCS).' Sir Paul Grice concluded: 'In the year that we celebrate Queen Margaret University's 150th anniversary, we are honoured to have two such inspirational individuals at the first of our three 2025 graduation ceremonies. We are delighted to officially install Patrick Grant as our new Chancellor, and to recognise Carol Rogers dedication and unwavering commitment to justice with the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.' L-R Carol Rogers Forensic Scientist, Patrick Grant Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU) and Principal of QMU Sir Paul Grice Great British Sewing Bee judge, Patrick Grant, was installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist Carol Rogers was honoured at the first of QMU's 2025 graduation ceremonies Patrick Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing Scotland's leading forensic scientist, Carol Rogers, Forensic Operation Lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences), was awarded an honorary degree. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was honoured for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Carol was awarded the title of 'Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa' by QMU. ALL PHOTOS Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 L-R Patrick Grant Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU) with his mother Susan Great British Sewing Bee judge, Patrick Grant, was installed as Chancellor Patrick Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing PHOTO Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 Patrick Grant Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU) Great British Sewing Bee judge, Patrick Grant, was installed as Chancellor of QMU Patrick Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing PHOTO Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 Carol Rogers Forensic Scientist was honoured at the first of QMU's 2025 graduation ceremonies Scotland's leading forensic scientist, Carol Rogers, Forensic Operation Lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences), was awarded an honorary degree. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was honoured for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Carol was awarded the title of 'Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa' by QMU. PHOTO Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 L-R Carol Rogers Forensic Scientist, Patrick Grant Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU) and Principal of QMU Sir Paul Grice Great British Sewing Bee judge, Patrick Grant, was installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist Carol Rogers was honoured at the first of QMU's 2025 graduation ceremonies Patrick Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing Scotland's leading forensic scientist, Carol Rogers, Forensic Operation Lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences), was awarded an honorary degree. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was honoured for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Carol was awarded the title of 'Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa' by QMU. ALL PHOTOS Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 L-R Carol Rogers Forensic Scientist, Patrick Grant Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU) and Principal of QMU Sir Paul Grice Great British Sewing Bee judge, Patrick Grant, was installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist Carol Rogers was honoured at the first of QMU's 2025 graduation ceremonies Patrick Grant is a prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founded the social enterprise Community Clothing Scotland's leading forensic scientist, Carol Rogers, Forensic Operation Lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences), was awarded an honorary degree. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin's case, was honoured for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland. Carol was awarded the title of 'Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa' by QMU. ALL PHOTOS Alan Simpson 7 July 2025 Like this: Like Related
Scotsman
29-05-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Patrick Grant named as Queen Margaret University's new Chancellor
Patrick Grant, the designer, entrepreneur, writer, and advocate for sustainability and sustaining communities, is to be the next Chancellor of Queen Margaret University, (QMU) Edinburgh. The Chancellor is the ceremonial head of the University, presiding over graduation ceremonies and performing an ambassadorial role. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A prominent figure in the British fashion industry, Patrick has become a household name through his role as a judge on one of BBC One's favourite shows, 'The Great British Sewing Bee'. However, his TV success is based on extensive recognition of his dedication to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices. As founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick is an advocate for sustainability and building strong communities through entrepreneurship. Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book 'Less', which was published in 2024 and is a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Over the past two decades, Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality. He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men's tailoring brand E. Tautz - winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards - and led Debenhams' most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co. Patrick Grant His passion for British manufacturing took a new turn in 2015 when he rescued the historic Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg from closure. This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that has earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing's mission is to sell exceptional quality everyday clothing at a fraction of the price of other premium brands and, by making all its clothing in the UK, sustaining and creating jobs and helping to restore local economic prosperity and pride. Beyond fashion, Patrick is a familiar face on television. In addition to the 'The Great British Sewing Bee', which was nominated for a BAFTA in 2022, he has presented the award-winning documentary 'Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King'. He has appeared on BBC Radio 4's 'Desert Island Discs', won BBC One's 'Celebrity Mastermind', and written extensively for publications including The Financial Times, The Times, and GQ Magazine. Patrick has strong connections with Edinburgh, where he grew up and where Queen Margaret University is based. With family still living in the city, he continues to be a regular visitor to the Scottish capital. Having been educated in both Edinburgh and Barnard Castle, Patrick went on to study a degree in Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Leeds, followed later by an MBA from the University of Oxford. He holds honorary fellowships at a number of universities. He is an ambassador for The King's Foundation, which works globally to create sustainable communities through placemaking projects and practical education programmes. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Pamela Woodburn, Chair of the Court of Queen Margaret University said: 'Patrick's career and achievements resonate strongly with the University's strong social justice ethos, and with our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. He is someone who uses his intellect, skill and passion to solve problems, most notably in his work building community wealth through revitalising the UK garment industry, and in his promotion of sustainable consumption. Taking up his post during Queen Margaret University's 150th anniversary, his story mirrors that of our founders, who, to quote an old motto of our institution, acted 'with head, heart and hand' in creating our institution to deliver practical solutions tackling social and economic problems.' Patrick's example of combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to build thriving communities aligns with QMU's purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research in health and rehabilitation, education and social science, the creative industries, and sustainable business. Patrick will be installed as Chancellor at the first of QMU's 2025 graduations on 7 July 2025 at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh.
Fashion United
26-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion United
Patrick Grant's Community Clothing to launch crowdfunding campaign
Community Clothing, the brand owned by Great British Sewing Bee's Patrick Grant, has announced its intention to launch a crowdfunding campaign. In a post on its website, the company said that it has partnered with the platform Crowdcube on the initiative, with which it intends to 'give everyone the opportunity to become shareholders'. The brand's crowdfunding page currently allows those interested in investing to gain early access to the campaign and submit the amount they hope to invest once it begins. In its profile, Community Clothing said its mission 'is to change the narrative around what we wear', while also 'supporting and creating local jobs' to 'help restore prosperity in communities across the UK'. It is exactly this that has been at the heart of the brand's mission since it was founded nine years ago. According to its website, the company has 'created well over 400,000 hours of skilled work' in the UK, but it wishes to do more. Over the past three years, meanwhile, its sales and impact has grown 400 percent. Community Clothing's story began in 2015 when Grant, a cloth merchant, purchased Lancashire clothing manufacturer Cookson & Clegg. The company found a partner in Selfridges by 2017 and continued to collaborate with other brands and firms, including the Homegrown/Homespun project, which launched growing flax and natural dyes. Community Clothing now has partner factories in Ayrshire, Bolton and South Wales.
