Latest news with #PrideofScotland
Daily Record
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Lanarkshire theatre group Ups and Downs celebrate Pride of Scotland award
The group for young people with Down's syndrome and their families earned the P&O Cruises inspiration award in their 30th anniversary year A much-loved Lanarkshire theatre company is celebrating after earning a prestigious Pride of Scotland award. Ups and Downs, made up of young people with Down's syndrome and their siblings, was awarded the inaugural inspiration category prize sponsored by P&O Cruises at the glittering annual awards ceremony in Glasgow – where members then 'stole the show' with their impressive rendition of The Greatest Showman hit This Is Me. The group's representatives were given a standing ovation from a capacity audience packed with celebrities from across Scotland as they received their glittering trophy from Coronation Street actor Liam Bairstow, Strictly Come Dancing star Dr Punam Krishan and Wellerman singer Nathan Evans, of Airdrie. Now the group is planning a special celebration at Hamilton racecourse later this month to mark their achievement and to be able to celebrate with all of the organisation's members and families. Ups and Downs are celebrating the group's 30th anniversary in 2025, staging their special annual show to mark the milestone at Hamilton town house in March. They also have an exciting engagement in the diary for later in the year, as group patron Calum Beattie has invited the Ups and Downs performers to join him on stage by opening for him at his forthcoming show at the Hydro in Glasgow. Guests at the Pride of Scotland awards ceremony saw a special video showcasing the group's busy and fun rehearsals, with performers and their families speaking about the close-knit atmosphere, support among members and their loved ones and 'joyful' times together – with long-standing member Joanne Toner saying: 'I treat my Ups and Downs peers as family.' The group was first formed by three music teachers who had noted recognised that young people with Down's syndrome in the schools where they worked had a particular musicality and love for theatre; and now more than 70 young people plus their siblings come together for weekly rehearsals to show their creative talents and get set for their much-anticipated annual shows. Winning members were interviewed on stage at the awards event in Glasgow by Scots stars Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli – and group member Ellis Leggatt, 26, told them: 'Ups and Downs have been the most amazing friends of mine for 20 years and it's been so much fun.' He has been involved with the group since the age of five and mum Lorna, who now serves as club president, added: 'Rehearsals are the most uplifting thing and when you come to see the show it is the best feelgood factor you could hope to have. 'The joy that Ups and Downs are capable of spreading, and the idea that the rest of Scotland can get to hear about us and we can spread that joy, is just incredible. 'Young people with Down's syndrome can be funny, frail, musical, mischievous, wilful and witty just like everyone else. They're individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams and, above all, they love to sing and dance – Ups and Downs allows them to show off their passion and they thrive on it.' The inspiration award winners' performance of This Is Me at the awards ceremony was described as 'spellbinding' and , fittingly, 'one of the most uplifting moments of the night'; while Lanarkshire musician Nathan said: 'When they sang everyone in the room got goosebumps.' Calling Ups and Downs 'amazing', he added: 'They are pure joy to watch; I had a lump in my throat. Their enthusiasm and passion is absolutely incredible.' Actor Liam said he was 'so honoured' to present the group with their Pride of Scotland award, while Dr Punam told members: 'Words that come to me are talent, heart, sparkle, joy – you are all so inspiraitonal. You've been lighting up the stage, lighting up lives and Scotland is so proud of all of you.' *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here. And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!
Daily Record
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Big hearted family win a Caribbean cruise at Pride of Scotland Awards
The Speirs who run cancer charity Calum's Cabin scoop an exciting P&O Cruise at our People's Oscars The Speirs who have provided holidays for 3000 terminally ill children and their families scooped the trip of a lifetime at the Pride of Scotland awards. Duncan, 63, Caroline, 58 and their daughter Jenna, 30, who run charity Calum's Cabin, won a luxury Caribbean getaway courtesy of award sponsors P&O Cruises. The trio were left speechless when they were revealed as the winners of the 14 night cruise at the glittering ceremony last Monday night. The family, who built a network of holiday homes and flats in memory of their son Calum, have spent the last 14 years giving sick kids and their families a much needed break. So it seems fitting that thanks to P&O Cruises they will now be able to enjoy some time away together making memories of their own. The Speirs, whose son Calum died of an inoperable brain tumour in 2007, will set sail from Barbados on MS Arvia on a 14 day jaunt round the Caribbean with stops in St Lucia, Martinique, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, the Virgin Islands, Antigua and Saint Maarten. The family, who had picked up a Special Recognition Award earlier in the night from actor David Hayman and presenter Jean Johansson couldn't hide their astonishment when the announcement was heralded by a troupe of colourful Caribbean dancers and steel drummers. Caroline, said: 'As if winning a Pride of Scotland Special Recognition award wasn't enough already. We were shocked and absolutely astounded when our faces were revealed on the big screen. We are blown away and still can't believe it. A big thank you to P&O Cruises.'
Daily Record
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Hollywood actor Brian Cox leads tributes to Pride of Scotland's unsung heroes
Stars reveal why they loved taking a backseat to award winners at 2025 People's Oscars IT was a night of celebration, camaraderie and rousing applause for life-affirming examples of heroism and dedication to others. The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards with P&O Cruises saw a host of stars turn out to recognise the courage and selfless determination shown by the nation's unsung heroes. Hosted by Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli, the glittering event at Glasgow's Hilton was an uplifting Celebrities including Succession star Brian Cox, Gladiator Sheli McCoy and footballers Billy Gilmour and Jack Butland were queuing up to sing the praises of the inspirational winners of our 'People's Oscars.' Here is just a selection of the warm words they shared on the night. Scotland's First Minister John Swinney hailed cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy as Scotland's Champion. He said: 'Sir Chris is an absolute sporting legend who has achieved so much but then in the face of adversity has demonstrated the strength and resolve which is of course so characteristic of all of the Pride of Scotland winners.' Scotland and Napoli footballer said of Teenager of Courage Georgie Hyslop: 'You'll never see her without a smile. I went and visited her and she played the guitar for me. I left the hospital in tears because of how happy she was. It was amazing to see. She is the bravest and strongest young woman I have ever met.' Succession star and acting legend Brian Cox said he was moved by shopkeepers Asiyah and Jawad Javed who are right at the heart of their community in Stenhousemuir, near Falkirk. He said: 'What an amazing couple. Scotland's sense of community is what keeps this nation great. This evening has been totally overwhelming.' Game of Throne's star James Cosmo honoured King's Trust Young Achiever Shane Lee, 26, who has autism and has landed his dream job in Marks & Spencers, said: 'What a wonderful young man who has overcome so many obstacles in his young life and is going to achieve so much more.' Sheli McCoy said she was blown away by Young Fundraiser Theo Hardie, seven, who ran 100 miles to raise money to buy his little brother a wheelchair. She said: 'Theo's selflessness took my breath away. The bond he shares with Jude is heartwarming. He is such an incredible boy.' Rangers Jack Butland also praised the bighearted schoolboy, who he presented with a signed goalie shirt. He said: 'Being a footballer is great but getting to be here to honour someone as special as Theo means the world. What an amazing young man.' Comedian Al Murray said Outstanding Bravery winner Stewart Miller, who jumped into the River Tay to save a stranger who had got into trouble during a storm, was a remarkable human being. He said: 'Such an amazing man who maintains he wasn't doing anything special which makes him even more extraordinary - my bowels would have turned to water at the thought.' Star Wars actor Denis Lawson said he was in awe of 'Vape Crusader' Laura Young who got a Special Recognition award for her campaign that led to a ban on selling disposable vapes in Scotland. He said: 'It's extraordinary what Laura has achieved from a standing start all on her own. To think the USA, Canada and Ireland are now considering all considering following suit is gobsmacking.' STV newsreader Kelly-Ann Woodland also praised the young campaigner. She said: 'What Laura has achieved is incredible. She has managed to force a change in the law which will have a positive impact on both the nation and the planet.' Strictly star Dr Punam Krishan was taken aback by the Ups and Downs Theatre Group who won the P&O Cruises Inspiration Award. She said: 'They just bring the joy. You can't help but smile when you hear them perform. What talent, what wholesomeness, what sparkle!' Wellerman singer Nathan Evans was also a big fan of the Ups and Downs who belted out a song from The Greatest Showman live on stage. He said: 'Their enthusiasm and passion is incredible and I feel privileged to have been asked to present their well-deserved award.' Eastenders star Laurie Brett lauded King's Trust Young Achiever Ashleigh, 28, who attended the event with her trainee assistance dog Blu and helps deliver mental health training to frontline workers. Laurie said: 'Ashleigh brings so much positivity to the world. She should be running the country. What an inspiring girl who has refused to let the dark times define her.' Singing legend Susan Boyle added: 'Ashleigh should be really proud of herself and all she has achieved and as for Blu - that dog is something special.' Hailing the Speirs family, who run the cancer charity Calum's Cabin in memory of their son who passed away in 2007, Trial and Retribution star David Hayman said: 'The Speirs are truly inspirational. To have overcome that grief and gone on to build a legacy in Calum's name is awe inspiring. They deserve all the credit in the world.' A Place in the Sun presenter Jean Johansson added: 'Caroline, Duncan and Jenna are three of the nicest people I have ever met and Calum lives on in them and the work that they do.' Scot Squad star Grady praised the four Dunfermline shop workers who tackled an armed robber. He said: 'Only in Scotland would you get folk who would have a square go with a man with a gun. The CCTV footage of them all coming together to tackle the robber is like something out of a movie. All four of them are pure, dead, brilliant.' - Watch the Pride of Scotland winners' stories at: from Friday 27th June
Edinburgh Live
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Comedian Al Murray shares love for Edinburgh after the 'best week of his life'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Comedian Al Murray revealed his love for Scotland and shared he had the 'best week of his life' in Edinburgh. The Daily Record's annual Pride of Scotland ceremony took place on Monday night. The star-studded event was hosted by Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli, and includes an exclusive list of award-winners including Sir Chris Hoy. Murray was only one of the celebrity names on the guest list, and he confessed his appearance was down to his love for Glasgow and the Edinburgh Fringe, reports The Record. He is no stranger to the Fringe and shared his daughter was born during the festival in 1999. He also won a prestigious comedy award. Murray explained: "The most amazing thing that's happened to me in Scotland was my eldest daughter was born here. "She was born at the Edinburgh Festival." Having been born on Scottish soil, the comic then joked that his daughter 'did wonder where her free university education was going to come from'. However, as she had never lived here, Murray's daughter unfortunately missed out on that particular perk of being a Scot. The comedian added: "She's not got the accent but she was born [in Edinburgh] on a Monday in August in '99, it was the same week I won the Perrier Award, which is the Comedy Award now, that same week. "And so there's this weird thing where, it was the most amazing week of my life in terms of what was happening at the Fringe, but then you have a kid and realise, 'oh, we've got to put this all into perspective', and also, 'I've got to work now and not just have fun'. Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages. "But also, she's 25 now, nearly 26, and it just reminds me of how old I am, and how long ago that all happened." Speaking to the Daily Record at the awards, he said: "This is really brilliant, I got the call a couple of weeks ago, and you know, any excuse to come to Glasgow obviously. "I love coming here, I've come here a lot, and I like playing here, I like the city." Al Murray also shared that he'll be going on tour in 2026, and will be performing in Scotland in the early days of the new year.
Daily Record
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Billy Gilmour 'left in tears' from girl battling cancer after she played him guitar
Billy Gilmour surprised football fan Georgie Hyslop and presented her with her Pride of Scotland award. Footballing star Billy Gilmour said he left the hospital ward of an inspirational teenager battling cancer "in tears" after she played the guitar for him. He shared the sweet moment at tonight's Pride of Scotland awards. The Scotland international made a surprise appearance on stage at the Glasgow event to present Georgie Hyslop with the Teenager of Courage award, alongside musician James Marriot. Georgie, 16, from Ardrossan, Ayrshire, was given a standing ovation as she collected her prize. Co-host Sanjeev Kohli introduced Billy as a "massive fan" of Georgie's as he came on the stage and embraced the teen. "I just want to say how proud we are of you," Billy said. "Of course I have known you for a couple of years now and I have came up to the hospital and visited. "This is probably one of the most hardest stories ever. What this girl has went through and what she does day to day is incredible." The Napoli star continued: "You'll never see her without a smile. I went and visited her and she played the guitar for me. I left the hospital in tears because of how happy she was. It was amazing to see. You deserve this, you are so strong." In December 2023, when she was just 15-years-old Georgie went to the doctor with leg pain and they initially thought it was a stress fracture. The fracture wasn't healing and, after an MRI and CT scan, she was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma - a rare cancer which occurs in the bones or in the soft tissue around them. Determined not to let cancer get the better of her, Georgie immediately looked to help others by agreeing to donate her tissue to Cancer Research and vowing to fundraise. In the months after her diagnosis she raised more than £15,000 for the Schiehallion Ward at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, the Teenage Cancer Trust and Marion's House. Throughout her treatment, which included 14 rounds of chemotherapy and 33 rounds of radiation, Georgie never stopped thinking of ways to help others and continued to organise family fundays, raffles and a ball. During her time at Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Georgie would give out 'pocket hugs' to the other patients who were waiting on scans or treatment, and even dressed up as SpiderMan to cheer up a four-year-old receiving radiation treatment. In July 2024, Georgie was given the news she was in remission but earlier this year scans revealed her cancer had returned. Despite the cruel twist of fate, the smiley schoolgirl is continuing to raise money for others and to date has raised more than £51,000. James Marriot added: "Georgie when I first heard your story I was in complete awe of what you've been able to achieve, the adversities you've been able to overcome. "I would have travelled just about anyone to get the chance to meet you and have the honour of co-presenting this award to you."
