Latest news with #Dougie
Daily Mirror
11-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Crystal Palace kicked out of Europa League as UEFA release official statement
UEFA have confirmed that Crystal Palace will be demoted to the Conference League. The governing body had been evaluating whether the FA Cup winners should be banned from the competition because minority shareholder John Textor is the majority owner at Lyon, the French side also qualified for the Europa League. Textor had reiterated that he never held direct influence over Palace, with the Eagles' minority shareholder insisting that he can prove he has never made 'management decisions' at Selhurst Park while denying any say in appointing Oliver Glasner as head coach. 'Why should I put my interest in a trust back before March when the rule says you only have to do it if you have decisive influence? I don't,' he told TalkSport on Thursday. '[Chairman Steve] Parish is making decisions. He's bringing in players. He involves us, but he doesn't really listen to us. He does, but a suggestion from time to time is not the same as decisive influence.' Textor also dismissed reports that he was key to bringing in Glasner last year. He added: 'I tried to hire him in Lyon. And if [former Palace sporting director] Dougie Freedman notices and he goes to visit him in Salzburg just the way I did and he ends up at Crystal Palace, is there a connection there? I don't know. "Steve's not going to be told who to hire as a coach. 'It's incredibly untrue. We sat in front of the Uefa panel and were extremely consistent on the lack of decisive influence. I don't even know if I suggested him to Dougie but Dougie recruited him.' Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Sky has slashed the price of its bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more. Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
BBC News
23-06-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Vet bills: More pets being put down due to rising costs, BBC told
Pet owners are increasingly having their sick animals put down or they are delaying taking them for treatment to avoid spiralling vet bills, vets and animal charities have animal lovers are giving up pets to rehoming centres, while others have decided not to own any more in the future due to high costs, the BBC has been veterinary surgeons and nurses say treatment prices have been pushed up after big corporations have bought up British Veterinary Association (BVA) said the cost of care had increased for a variety of reasons and fees reflected the prices businesses needed to charge to remain financially viable and open. Hundreds of pet owners have contacted Your Voice, Your BBC News, with concerns over vet told us about her dog Dougie after File on Four Investigates revealed the "constant pressure" some vets felt to generate income. The 12-year-old Cavachon has a heart condition, but Avril says she has had to cut back on vet appointments as prices have risen every year. Now Dougie has gone deaf and Avril worries his condition may have got worse because she cut back on follow-up appointments due to the said she's gone through "a lot of soul searching", adding that at times she worries not taking him is to blame."At least I'm still hanging in there and get to keep him," she said, but added she felt "desperately sorry for those people who have given up their pet". Caroline also got in touch after paying more than £4,500 to treat her 19-year-old cat Ozzie when she was diagnosed with a brain bill was so expensive she could not afford to cremate Ozzie after the cat died - so instead she brought her home and buried her in the back garden. She said the cost of treating Ozzie, who died in 2022, was so high it has put her off owning another pet."I'm currently in my early 60s and I don't want to be 10 years down the line having to find £4,500," she said. "I don't want the emotional upset of possibly not being able to afford it and then having to ask for somebody to rehome the cat as well."Animal welfare charity Blue Cross warned increased treatment costs are a "ticking time bomb" for the welfare of pets."Access to affordable vet care has reduced and we're seeing more animals not getting the treatment they need and even being relinquished because their owners can no longer afford to keep them," said Paul Manktelow, director of veterinary services for the Cross runs a fund for people who can't afford emergency care and it's seen a 264% increase in applications in the past year, going from 1,319 in 2023 to 4,807 in 2024. The BBC has spoken to 25 veterinary surgeons, nurses and industry insiders working for a range of companies and the majority blamed higher vet bills on big companies buying up said life became "hellish" when their practice was taken over. Another said a regional manager bought them a cake when they hit their financial targets, which "went down badly" with staff, who were busy and covered in animal blood and urine at the time. Only one person did speak to us publicly because others feared never working again. Locum vet Dr Callum Ladell, who has worked at more than 250 practices, says public trust in vets has been lost and he is seeing fewer clients bringing in their animals for treatment because they are expecting a big bill."We're having cases come in, having been left for months and months, and normally, it ends up being euthanasia - putting an animal to sleep - because they can't afford the bill and because it works out cheaper than fixing them," he told the BBC. The British Veterinary Union in Unite (BVU) - which represents workers in the industry – says people are increasingly choosing to euthanise their pets due to cost pressures, even when there are other medical options available.A survey of 10,000 cat owners by the charity Cats Protection found 58% did not visit the vet as often as they would like, with cost described as the biggest barrier. Dr Ladell said he treated a friend's cat, called Elvis, who suffered a wound to his leg in sedated the cat, cleaned out the wound and stitched it up at a cost of £93.19. This didn't include his clinical time, which he estimated would have added £300 to the cat later opened up the wound – making it larger - and this time, Dr Ladell took him to the practice at which Elvis was registered, which is owned by the corporate chain CVS. The case notes and final bill, which have been seen by the BBC, showed vets treated the cat under full anaesthetic, removed tissue, reopened the wound, flushed it out, put a drain in and stitched it up. The bill came to £1, Ladell didn't criticise the quality of care received but said he feels more cost-effective treatment could have been done with an equally good outcome, particularly if the owner was not someone who could afford more than £1,000 for this "gold standard" service. CVS, which owns around 500 veterinary practices across the UK and Australia, said the two procedures were not comparable.A spokesperson said: "It would be incorrect for us to comment publicly on an individual case as we are bound by confidentiality rules. It would also be unprofessional for us to compare the high-quality treatment we offer with another member of the veterinary profession, particularly if the level of surgical intervention is very different."In 2013, only 10% of vet practices in the UK were owned by large corporate groups. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said six large corporate vet groups - IVC Evidensia, CVS, Medivet, Pets at Home, Linnaeus, and Vet Partners – now account for 60% of the for pet owners have risen as corporate ownership has increased - by more than 60% - between 2015 and 2023, figures from the CMA show. This is almost double the rate of inflation or the increase in vet salaries over that time. The CMA is currently investigating whether a lack of competition in the veterinary sector has contributed to soaring vets at practices owned by IVC Evidensia told File on Four Investigates they were monitored and subject to targets set by the said he and his colleagues were encouraged to compete against other practices owned by IVC over the number of certain procedures they carried out on animals, through what the company called "clinical challenge milestones".IVC said the health and welfare of animals was always its first priority and stressed these "clinical challenge" targets weren't financial but designed to improve the clinical care of pets. The selected procedures, it says, are all carefully chosen because they are essential to ensuring a prompt diagnosis and stabilisation of emergency patients. Corporate vet chains have said there are a variety of reasons why vet costs have increased – including advances in treatments, rising running costs and demands from pet owners for higher CMA has put forward suggestions of changes designed to make veterinary services more affordable – including price caps on medicines, prescriptions and other services like British Veterinary Association (BVA), the vet union BVC and veterinary staff all agree regulation of the industry needs to be updated. However, the BVA said the CMA's proposed remedies may have the "unintentional consequence of reducing consumer choice and potentially increasing vet fees"."If owners are concerned about cost, speak to your vet because they will always prioritise the welfare of the animal in their care and work closely with owners to find treatment plans that work for their circumstances," said British Veterinary Association president Dr Elizabeth CMA was due to publish its final report towards the end of the year, but that's been delayed by three to six months due to the volume and complexity of feedback from vets on its proposed changes. Caroline says she can't bring herself to remove the cat flap she had for Ozzie, because that completely closes off ever having a she insists that even though she loves having animals around, the cost of looking after one means she is going to "fight the urge to get another pet".
The Herald Scotland
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Herald Scotland
Engineering firm wins train contract with transport giant
Gibson's Engineering, a train manufacturer and maintenance and repair business, has sealed a major new contract with Transport for London (TfL), the largest integrated transport company in the UK. The contract is described as a significant marker of Gibson's progress since opening its new engineering facility at the world-famous St Rollox rail depot in Springburn, Glasgow. The works include stripping back and overhauling 23 long vehicle wagons. (Image: Gibson's Engineering) The works, which include stripping back and fully overhauling 23 long vehicle wagons, will take two years and create significant employment opportunities in the local area, generating 40 new jobs. St Rollox reopened as a manufacturing, maintenance and repair rail depot last year. The company is led by father and son Dougie and Fraser Gibson. The firm said they and their team are 'dedicated to delivering superior quality products that not only enhance the global transportation landscape but reduce its environmental impact'. Tom Cunnington, left, of TfL and Fraser Gibson, Gibson's Engineering managing director. (Image: Gibson's Engineering) The directors and management team, 'with a combined experience of over 300 years in rail transport engineering, have a reputation for innovation, reliability and craftsmanship'. Fraser Gibson, managing director of Gibson's Engineering, said: 'This is fantastic news for Gibson's, as well as for the wider Scottish rail industry. Since reopening St Rollox, Dougie and I have worked to restore its position as a centre for engineering excellence. This contract shows that we are well on our way to seeing The Caley thrive again, with a rapidly expanding workforce and significant new projects.' READ MORE: 'Our extensive supply chain supports growth and opportunities right across the UK, with around two thirds of our suppliers based outside London, and nearly a third of our overall spend and resulting economic benefit therefore felt outside of London. By renewing vital transport infrastructure through sustained investment, we can drive economic growth, within London as well as across the UK.' Following the closure of the depot in 2019, David Moulsdale purchased the facility in 2021 with the aim of revitalising the landmark site as a train engineering depot. Over £10 million has already been invested by Mr Moulsdale including the purchase price of the facility, refurbishment and ongoing maintenance of the buildings. Mr Moulsdale, described by the firm as a businessman and philanthropist, said: 'I was always confident in our ambition to see significant employment of engineers, coachbuilders, project managers and apprentices at St Rollox, and this new agreement with TfL shows that we are breathing new life into 'The Caley', Glasgow and the Scottish economy.' Paul Sweeney, Glasgow Labour MSP, said: 'I am delighted to see St Rollox, 'The Caley' Railway Works and its new operator Gibson's Engineering go from strength to strength. The award of this major contract from Transport for London (TfL) demonstrates that 'The Caley' has a viable future after being written off when the works closed down in 2019, after 163 years of operation. "A century ago, Glasgow's Springburn district was the world's largest centre of locomotive production, with exports from its various railway works going to all parts of the world. I have campaigned relentlessly and have supported the effort of the new owners to restore railway engineering work to 'The Caley', so it is exciting to see Gibson's Engineering revive this legendary locomotive works with this latest contract milestone. 'I know the difference it is going to make to Springburn by providing skilled jobs for our young people and reviving local pride in skilled manufacturing work. "I look forward to being as helpful as possible as they continue to pursue more contracts, hire more engineers, and build on Glasgow's illustrious pedigree as a centre of engineering excellence.'
Glasgow Times
09-06-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Major London contract gives jobs boost for Glasgow firm
Gibson's Engineering took over the historic yard in 2019 in a bid to save the railway heritage of the yard and see the industry in Springburn thrive once again. The contract with Transport for London will see workers stripping back and carrying out a complete overhaul of 23 long vehicle wagons. READ NEXT:Rachel Reeves reveals changes to Winter Fuel Payments this year The work will last two years and generate 40 new jobs at the site. Father and son duo Dougie and Fraser Gibson took on the yard with the ambition of returning it to be a major employer once again. (Image: newsquest) Fraser Gibson, managing director of Gibson's engineering, said: 'This is fantastic news for Gibson's, as well as for the wider Scottish rail industry. 'Since reopening St Rollox, Dougie and I have worked to restore its position as a centre for engineering excellence. 'This contract shows that we are well on our way to seeing The Caley thrive again, with a rapidly expanding workforce and significant new projects.' READ NEXT: Council plans Compulsory Purchase Order on flat empty for two years Tom Cunnington, TfL head of logistics and manufacturing, said: 'We're pleased that this new contract with Gibsons Engineering will utilise the St Rollox rail depot and help create new jobs for those living near Glasgow. 'Our extensive supply chain supports growth and opportunities right across the UK, with around two thirds of our suppliers based outside London, and nearly a third of our overall spend and resulting economic benefit therefore felt outside of London. 'By renewing vital transport infrastructure through sustained investment, we can drive economic growth, within London as well as across the UK.' Paul Sweeney, Glasgow Labour MSP, a long-time campaigner to save the Caley as a railway engineering facility, said the deal shoed the yard has a future. (Image: newsquest) He said: 'I am delighted to see the St. Rollox 'Caley' Railway Works and its new operator Gibson's Engineering go from strength to strength, and the award of this major contract from Transport for London demonstrates that 'The Caley' has a viable future after being written off when the works closed down in 2019, after 163 years of operation. "A century ago, Glasgow's Springburn district was the world's largest centre of locomotive production, with exports from its various railway works going all parts of the world. "I have campaigned relentlessly and have supported the effort of the new owners to restore railway engineering work to 'The Caley', so it is exciting to see Gibson's Engineering revive this legendary locomotive works with this latest contract milestone and I know the difference it going to make to Springburn by providing skilled jobs for our young people and reviving local pride in skilled manufacturing work. "I look forward to being as helpful as possible as they continue to pursue more contracts, hire more engineers, and build on Glasgow's illustrious reputation as a centre of engineering excellence.'
Toronto Sun
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Toronto Sun
Defending Canadian Open champ doesn't give a **** what anyone thinks
Robert MacIntyre is back in Canada and spent Monday re-living last year's father-son glory with his dad Dougie Get the latest from Jon McCarthy straight to your inbox Robert MacIntyre speaks to the media during a press conference after winning the RBC Canadian Open in 2024. Getty Images CALEDON, Ont. — Defending RBC Canadian Open champion Robert MacIntyre doesn't give a bleep what anybody thinks. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account That's the first thing that came to mind when the 2024 champ was asked on Tuesday at TPC Toronto about one thing he likes about himself. 'Most of time I don't give a … about what's going on,' he said, leaving one word out. 'I really don't care about other people's opinions, to be honest with you. If you're not part of my team, not part of the inner circle, your opinion really doesn't matter to me.' Tell us how you really feel, Bob. 'I think that's a massive thing, especially in the sport we play,' he added. 'I think it helps.' Last year was MacIntyre's first full-time season on the PGA Tour and first year living in the U.S., and it proved to be a difficult transition for the Scotsman. Life on tour can be a lonely place, especially when the results aren't there, and until last year's RBC Canadian Open the dream life of every aspiring golfer was anything but. Jon McCarthy has something for every golfer, with a notably Canadian slant. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Last year, I struggled a little bit with the adjustments of life on the PGA Tour,' he said. 'Look, I've always been different. I grew up in a small town on the West Coast of Scotland that I wasn't given everything. I was given a lot of stuff to try and achieve my dreams, but I wasn't given everything and I just worked hard for it, and I trusted what I do, and I still do that. The fairy tale win in Hamilton with his father carrying his bag as a last-minute caddy replacement both steadied the ship and propelled him to a victory at his own national open weeks later in Scotland. Read More This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. This year, life is good he says, but the golf is still a work in progress as his putting stats have fallen from 35th to 107th on tour. He's hoping a return to the place his career took off will have a positive effect on his game. On Monday, he and his dad Dougie went back to Hamilton Golf and Country Club to relive the good vibes. 'He came and we went there yesterday, and they actually put the pin positions out for the Sunday of the Canadian Open. So we were kind of reminiscing of certain shots, certain putts,' MacIntyre said. 'Look, it's just special for me and my dad to go back there and just enjoy a round of golf without the media, without the crowds, without any hassle. Just reliving a moment.' Monday's round with his son was all the work on the golf course necessary this week for Dougie. 'Told my dad last week, look, do you want to come to Canada again? You're not caddying, but you can come and have a holiday,' he said. Toronto & GTA Other Sports Ontario Soccer Canada
