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Daily Mirror
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
'World's oldest marathon runner' who lived in UK killed in road accident aged 114
British runner Fauja Singh, who is believed to be the oldest marathon finisher, has been tragically killed in a road traffic accident in his home village of Beas Pind in India at the age of 114 British-Indian man Fauja Singh, who was believed to be the world's oldest marathon runner, has died in a road accident aged 114. The centenarian Sikh continued running marathons past the age of 100. Singh, born in Punjab in April 1911, was walking in the village of his birth, Beas Pind, when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle, local reports state. He was then taken to hospital, where he later died from his injuries. His London-based running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, confirmed his passing, with his coach Harmander Singh announcing that all of its events will be dedicated to the late runner into 2026. Singh had been an Ilford resident since 1992 and ran his first marathon in London in 2000, with his personal best time of five hours and 40 minutes coming three years later. On 16 October 2011, in Toronto, it is believed that he became the first centenarian to finish a marathon. However, Guinness World Records does not recognise this, as Singh could not produce a birth certificate despite his passport indicating his birthdate and him having received a letter from the Queen to commemorate his 100th birthday. Singh would later serve as a torchbearer at London 2012 and retire from marathon running at the age of 101. He inspired many, having only started running at the age of 89. He was awarded a BEM in 2015. On social media, Singh's coach released a devastating statement: "Dearest runners. It is with great sadness that we can confirm our icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity Fauja Singh has passed away in India. Aged 114 years old. "He succumbed to injuries caused by a vehicle accident while crossing the road close to his home. His running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, will be devoting all of its events until the Fauja Singh Birthday Challenge on Sunday March 29 2026 to celebrate his life of success and achievements. "We will be doubling the efforts to raise funds to building the Fauja Singh Clubhouse on the route in Ilford where he used to train. In lieu of flowers, please donate to his Clubhouse Appeal so we can carry on his legacy to encourage the world to keep fit and stay positive." Others have paid tribute to Singh, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who dubbed him an "exceptional athlete with incredible determination." MP Preet Kaur Gill also paid her respects, posting: "Saddened to hear about the passing of Fauja Singh. I had the honour of meeting him. A truly inspiring man. "His discipline, simple living, and deep humility left a lasting mark on me. A reminder that age is just a number, but attitude is everything. Rest in power, legend." MP Jas Athwal added: "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji. He was legendary – a man who continued running until he was 101. He was a global Sikh icon, that inspired millions across the world. His spirit and legacy of resilience will run on forever. My heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends. We will miss him. RIP." Local police say that Singh was crossing the road when he was struck, and that a search is underway to apprehend the accused.
Borneo Post
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
ACS to hold Sarawak Day Ecumenical Prayer Service in Kuching on July 17
(From second left) Organising chairman Elder Harry Pudun, Ambrose, and Reverend John Para of BEM pose for a photo with other members of the event's organising committee at CEWC in Kuching. — Photo by Kentigern Minggu KUCHING (July 15): The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) will hold its annual Sarawak Day Ecumenical Prayer Service at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre (CEWC), Jalan Stampin here at 7.30pm on July 17. Hosted by the Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM), this year's service carries the theme 'Prayer For A Blessed Life' Sarawak Maju Makmur. ACS secretary-general Elder Ambrose Linang, who announced the event during a press conference at CEWC today, said the prayer gathering is a spiritual commitment to the state's future. 'Let us continue to pray for Sarawak and its aspiration for the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, and for it to be a model of racial unity and religious harmony for Sarawak Maju Makmur, in the spirit of Segulai Sejalai.' 'We pray for all believers to promote true Christian moral values, witness to the community, and contribute to the peace and harmony of our state, and for leaders of different faiths to have mutual understanding and respect among all races and faiths.' The service will begin with an opening prayer by the Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei, the Right Reverend Datuk Danald Jute, who will also lead the benediction alongside the heads of churches during the closing. The order of service will feature themed scripture readings and prayers to be delivered in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, Bidayuh Biatah, Iban, and Tamil, reflecting Sarawak's rich multicultural identity. Before the scripture and prayer segments, the Jalur Gemilang and Ibu Pertiwi will be hoisted by The Boys' Brigade and The Girls' Brigade, respectively. During the service, prayers will be offered for the Sarawak Government, the Head of State and his wife, the Premier and his Cabinet, lawmakers, the police and armed forces, and all those in positions of authority — that they may continue to uphold religious freedom, justice, liberty, political stability, and unity in the state. 'There will be prayers for peace of the world, for all justice and righteousness to prevail in all countries. 'There will be prayer for church unity and family institutions, our youth as the torchbearers of Sarawak Maju Makmur. It is time to pray for our beloved Sarawak and Malaysia for the spirit of goodwill to reclaim centre stage among all races of different beliefs and cultures,' Ambrose said. The Praise and Worship session and congregational hymns will be led by a combined team from BEM. Invitations have also been extended to all Christian members of the state and federal governments, heads of departments, and leaders of interfaith groups such as Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, and Baháʼí representatives. Ambrose said ACS reaffirms its commitment to promoting harmony and unity among all peoples in Sarawak and Malaysia, emphasising that social cohesiveness is the pillar of socio-economic progress and development. 'ACS calls upon all Christians in the city to join the prayer service to symbolise unity in our Lord. ACS branches throughout Sarawak are holding similar services at their respective branches. 'Let us at all times break down walls and build bridges among all Sarawakians of different faiths,' he urged. Ambrose further cautioned that racial polarisation and religious extremism must not be allowed to undermine the unity that has long driven Sarawak and Malaysia's progress.
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Churches play vital role in fostering strong, caring society, says S'wak minister
Lee (fourth left) handing over a food basket to a recipient during the charity sales programme. MIRI (July 12): Religious institutions such as churches play a vital role in shaping society, not only by providing spiritual guidance but also by strengthening families, promoting moral values, and fostering unity, said Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Speaking at the Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM) Morsjaya Charity Sale here today, Lee underscored the church's importance in cultivating a resilient and values-driven community – an effort that aligns closely with the state government's vision of holistic human development. 'The church does more than offer spiritual support. It contributes to family building, community cohesion, and the cultivation of ethics and values. 'These are the pillars of a strong and caring society,' said Lee, who is also Senadin assemblyman. The charity event was held to raise funds for a van recently acquired by the church to support its ministry and outreach activities. Commending the initiative, Lee described it as a noble effort that reflects the spirit of cooperation and empathy among the local community. He said the Sarawak government's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) supports such community-driven efforts, as the state aspires to build not just an economically resilient society, but one that is also socially and morally grounded. Lee also highlighted the vital role of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) in supporting non-Islamic religious institutions across the state. He noted that RM110 million has been allocated under Unifor this year to assist with infrastructure upgrades and other support services for non-Muslim communities. 'Sarawak is the only state in Malaysia to consistently allocate significant annual funding to support religious diversity. This reflects our commitment to inclusion and mutual respect,' he said. On a related note, Lee pledged continued support for community initiatives and said his office had received several requests from the church, which he would carefully consider to determine how best to assist. He also voiced his support for the church's aspiration to establish a permanent facility that could double as a community activity centre, benefitting the wider public. 'This is not just about building infrastructure – it's about building stronger community ties,' he added. Lee also called on all Mirians to play their part in nurturing a caring and united society based on love, support, and mutual respect. During the event, he announced an allocation of RM5,000 for the church's activities, as well as RM10,000 to assist with financing the newly purchased van. The programme also saw the presentation of food baskets to senior members of the BEM congregation. Also present were BEM Miri chairman Pastor Loter Sakai; BEM Morsjaya pastors-in-charge Alan Lutu and Pastor Petrus Matias; and charity sales organising chairman Deacon Penghulu Randi Elon. BEM Morsjaya Charity Sale Borneo Evangelical Mission Lee Kim Shin miri
BBC News
07-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Fire service hero 'chuffed' to receive empire medal honour
A stalwart of Scotland's fire and rescue community has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for six decades of (Jim) Burns Smith joined the Glasgow Fire Brigade in 1962, aged 20, and spent years battling major blazes across the city, including the fatal factory fire at James Watt Street in 1968 that killed 22 later developed a historical archive for the fire service and co-authored a book on firefighters in 83-year-old said he was "surprised and chuffed" to be given the honour at the city chambers. Jim's career started at Soho Street fire station in Glasgow, which was said to be one of the busiest in western was previously recognised with the firemaster's certificate of congratulations for rescues at a major building collapse and he became an advocate for fire safety, working closely with schools, businesses and the retiring as staff officer to the firemaster, he worked as a civil service security manager in the Scottish government and then as a volunteer librarian with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).It was while there he developed their archive, unearthing logbooks dating back to 1823, wartime records, and personal service documents – many of which are now preserved at the Mitchell his other later achievements were supporting Strathclyde University's librarian course, co-authoring the book Tinderbox Heroes and helping to create the Glasgow heritage fire trail. His work was also been instrumental in the creation of Everyday Heroes, a book chronicling the first 30 years of Strathclyde Fire Brigade. Jim said: "I was so surprised and chuffed to receive this award. I've always been in touch with the fire service in one way or another after I retired as a fire fighter. "I felt compelled to not only document and share my own experiences but those of others in the service. These are stories that should not be forgotten."He was joined in the city chambers by his wife Grace, three sons and four grandchildren. He also thanked also made special mention of Graeme Kirkwood, from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Heritage Museum in Greenock, for helping with his Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren, praised Jim's dedication and tireless efforts during his said: "His dedication ensures that vital records and experiences are remembered, and future generations can learn from the past, and honour the bravery of those who came before."
Glasgow Times
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow councillor wants commitment to extend £200k project
Paul Carey BEM says choosing just four Glasgow secondaries for a £200,000 pilot project that will see 400 youngsters given a healthy lunch means that many living in poverty elsewhere will be left hungry. Castlemilk, Drumchapel and Lochend high schools, as well as pupils at Springburn Academy, have been chosen to participate, with those whose parents are carers or in receipt of the Scottish Child Payment qualifying. Cllr Carey says the scheme does not go far enough to help those in Glasgow living on the breadline. He said: 'The reality is that we need to secure better funding from the Scottish Government to ensure that no child is going hungry at school, especially those living in areas of high deprivation and unemployment. 'I want to see the initiative extended to every high school in Glasgow, including pupils in fourth year. We need to ensure that as many youngsters as possible are getting at least one healthy hot feed every weekday. 'We know how important it is to fuel youngsters with nutritious food and for many this might be the only decent meal they get. It's important that this is offered to every youngster from S1 to S4.' Paul Carey BEM (Image: supplied) Councillor Carey, Labour's elected member for Drumchapel and Anniesland, says that working poverty is very real for many families in his constituency who are struggling to make ends meet. He added: 'Drumchapel has one of the highest poverty rates in Glasgow. Parents here are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, pay bills and put clothes on their back They often have no option but to turn to cheap, unhealthy foods. Clearly the Scottish Government knows that this is an issue, that why this pilot is being tested in areas with high deprivation. 'I welcome the scheme being rolled out at Drumchapel High, however we need to ensure this doesn't come to an end when the funding runs out next year. Kids can access free school meals from P1 to P5, but what happens when they go to high school and are not eligible for a free lunch.' At a full council meeting last week, Councillor Christina Cannon, convenor of education and early years, advised members that the pilot will last for one year and that money had been awarded to eight local authorities across the country. READ NEXT: Community rallies amid fears Glasgow branch could be axed Cllr Cannon said: 'Of course, we want everyone in these schools who are eligible at S1 to S3 to take up the free meals on offer. 'This is great news for Glasgow and families in the city because we know school meals are essential for fuelling our pupils' learning and allowing them to flourish. 'We are continuing to put children, young people and families first and this investment will also complement the commitment the SNP group made in our budget in February this year to deliver free school meals to all primary six pupils, starting in August this year, then expanding to all primary seven pupils in August 2026.' Speaking about the scheme, First Minister John Swinney, said: 'It's a measure designed to tackle the cost-of-living challenges families face, to tackle child poverty and to make sure that children have good health, nutritious food to strengthen their ability to learn in school.' 'The free school meals programme is key in our national mission to eradicate child poverty, which saves families who take up the offer around £450 per eligible child per year. 'This next phase of the rollout will ensure that this offer is available to more families across the country. 'We know the positive impact that access to a healthy and nutritious meal can have on a pupil's learning and achievement in school.'
