Latest news with #ChariotsofFire
IOL News
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
5 things to look out for at Comrades Marathon
START OF A JOURNEY Runners cross over the start of the Comrades Marathon. Picture: Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix Image: Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix It's that time of year again, and the Comrades Marathon is once again here as over 22,000 runners are set to take on the challenge of running from Pietermaritzburg to Durban on Sunday. The down run this year is set to be held in good running conditions, with the risk of rain around 10%. Of course, from the outset the focus will be on the title contenders in the men's and women's races, which will be Piet Wiersma and Gerda Steyn. However, the majority of the race will be about the hordes of regular runners who will be putting in herculean efforts as they attempt to cross the finish line in the gruelling ultra-marathon. Here are five things to look out for at the Comrades Marathon this weekend. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Chariots of Fire at the start As is tradition, the song Chariots of Fire by Vangelis will be played on the loudspeaker system at the start just before the gun is fired. It's always a stirring and inspiring moment which brings the anticipation to a crescendo, before each runner sets off on their Comrades journey. Commentators telling us how far 90km is It's understandable that during a broadcast over more than 12 hours, commentators will run out of things to talk about at times. However, it's always particularly irritating when the commentators try to explain how far Comrades is, how it's more than two regular marathons, and for bonus points, they might even once more tell us how many parkruns (5km) Comrades is like running in a row. It's simply inane babble, and sometimes silence is golden. The final hour of the race This is where the real heart of the race lies. The runners that finish between 11 hours and the 12-hour cut-off are the ones who likely battle most to finish the race. These are not elite runners; these are people with regular jobs who somehow find the time to put in enough (or not enough) training just to simply cross the line. There will be many who crawl over the finish throughout the day, but the most come in this final hour. Finally, there will be scenes of heartbreak as viewers witness those runners who don't make it, despite their best efforts. It's TV sporting drama of the highest calibre.
Daily Record
4 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
Scottish seaside town crowned top 'hidden gem' for summer 2025 as top five named
A Fife town has been revealed as the best travel destination in Scotland. Scotland's top "hidden gems" have been named ahead of summer. The number one title has gone to a seaside town in Fife. Now that June has begun, summer has well and truly started. While the weather across much of the country may not be as warm and sunny as we would like, there is still no better time than the start of June to plan a day trip or a staycation. FlixBus has shared a list of the top five hidden gem destinations in Scotland for those after a quieter and less-crowded summer getaway. The experts compared more than 30 Scottish towns and villages, considering factors such as the number of nature parks, spas, wellness centres, minimum temperatures, sunshine and rainfall, as well as how locations are cropping up in Google searches. Coming in at number one on FlixBus' list of the top hidden gems in Scotland is St Andrews. The town is located along Scotland's east coast, northeast of Edinburgh. St Andrews was praised by the experts for its "stunning coastal views" and laid-back atmosphere. The seaside town was also singled out for its "tranquillity and natural beauty". With summer here, the most prominent feature of St Andrews is arguably its sandy beaches. East Sands and West Sands are both stunning bays that are popular amongst locals and visitors alike. West Sands in particular is famous for featuring in the film Chariots of Fire, and is popular spot for running. Meanwhile, East Sands is a top location for watersports such as surfing and sailing. Other top beauty spots in St Andrews are St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral. St Andrews Castle dates back to the 13th century and sits on a rocky cliff looking out over a small beach, while St Andrews Cathedral features the remnants of Scotland's biggest and most impressive medieval church. FlixBus also praised St Andrews for its fascinating history. In addition to attractions such as St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral, the town is also known for its golf heritage. Often referred to as the 'home of golf', the seaside town is reportedly where the sport was invented back in the 15th century. The Old Course, which is open to the public., is among the most iconic and historic golf courses in the world. Elsewhere, St Monans comes in at number two on FlixBus' list of the top hidden gems in Scotland. Also located in Fife, the village was noted for its high average hours of sunshine and outdoor activities and was described as "a prime escape from the hustle and bustle of the city". In third place on the roundup is St Abbs, which is located in the Scottish Borders. According to the experts, the small fishing village offers a rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and clear waters to explore. Meanwhile, the fourth-best hidden gem in Scotland was named as Ayr. Situated along the southwest coast of Scotland, Ayr earned praise for its beauty spots and wellness facilities. Finally, rounding out the top five hidden gems in Scotland according to FlixBus is Arbroath. Known for being the home of the Arbroath smokie delicacy, the experts said the Angus town is "the perfect destination" and singled it out as a top destination for relaxation. See below for the list of Scotland's top hidden gems. More information can be found on the FlixBus website. St Andrews St Monans St Abbs Ayr Arbroath
Scottish Sun
01-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Popular seaside town dubbed a ‘must-visit' set for HUGE £16million retail and restaurant development
The £16 million project will bring new businesses, jobs, and essential amenities Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR seaside town, renowned for its charm and historical significance, is set to undergo a major £16 million transformation. St Andrews, located on the east coast of Fife, is at the heart of this exciting development. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy Credit: Getty 5 The developers are confident that the new project will create a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves Credit: Getty 5 Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development This ambitious retail and restaurant development promises to reshape the town's landscape, bringing new business opportunities, jobs, and amenities to the area. The project is poised to enhance the town's appeal, solidifying its status as one of the UK's must-visit coastal destinations. Famous worldwide for its golf heritage and stunning coastal views, the town attracts both tourists and locals alike. Now, the £16 million investment is set to bring new retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and business units to the outskirts, particularly around the Craigtoun area. This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy and provide much-needed amenities to support the growing population. The proposed project, submitted to Fife Council by West Coast Estates, will introduce new restaurants, office spaces, and business units to the western edge of St Andrews, specifically at Craigtoun. If approved, this development is expected to create around 170 permanent jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy. Additionally, a further 100 jobs are expected to be generated during the construction phase, contributing to a vibrant future for the town. St Andrews is not just famous for its golf courses – it's also a hub for tourism and culture. Visitors flock to its stunning beaches, including the West Sands, which was featured in the iconic film Chariots of Fire. The town's historic charm, combined with modern amenities, makes it a magnet for both locals and tourists alike. Its mix of ancient landmarks, including St Andrews Castle and the famed university, with modern cultural offerings, ensures it remains a top destination year-round. West Coast Estates, the developers behind this ambitious project, believe that the £16 million investment will deliver long-term economic benefits. Director Ifikar Mian explained, 'The site is ideally located to provide much-needed amenities and services for the community, and it will play a key role in the wider Craigtoun Masterplan.' This will include over 1,000 homes in addition to the retail and business spaces, ensuring the area remains vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors. The inclusion of new homes will also cater to the increasing demand for accommodation in this picturesque and bustling town. The developers are confident that the new development will become a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves. The plan aligns with St Andrews' growing reputation as a thriving, must-visit destination, offering not only breathtaking views and historic sites but now, enhanced commercial facilities. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. For residents, the added retail and restaurant spaces mean more options for shopping and dining, something that has long been requested by the local community. The development will also bring new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with the space to grow and thrive in a rapidly expanding town. With St Andrews' blend of historical significance and modern lifestyle, the addition of these facilities will make the town an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development. With the addition of new restaurants and business units, visitors will have even more reason to explore this renowned town. St Andrews has long been a magnet for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers, but with these new offerings, the town is ready to attract an even wider range of tourists, including those interested in a vibrant food scene and diverse retail experiences. This transformation could reshape St Andrews, maintaining its status as one of Scotland's top coastal towns while meeting the growing demand for modern services. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. As the development moves forward, it's clear that St Andrews is poised to remain at the forefront of Scotland's coastal charm while expanding its business and economic prospects. In the long run, the plans for Craigtoun are not just about economic growth but also about fostering a thriving, sustainable community. With an increased number of residents and businesses in the area, local schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities are expected to receive additional support. The project's forward-thinking design and community focus are expected to set the tone for the future development of St Andrews, ensuring it remains a beacon of success in Scotland's coastal towns for years to come. 5 Looking out over the East Sands in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland Credit: Getty
The Sun
01-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Popular seaside town dubbed a ‘must-visit' set for HUGE £16million retail and restaurant development
A POPULAR seaside town, renowned for its charm and historical significance, is set to undergo a major £16 million transformation. St Andrews, located on the east coast of Fife, is at the heart of this exciting development. 5 5 5 This ambitious retail and restaurant development promises to reshape the town's landscape, bringing new business opportunities, jobs, and amenities to the area. The project is poised to enhance the town's appeal, solidifying its status as one of the UK's must-visit coastal destinations. Famous worldwide for its golf heritage and stunning coastal views, the town attracts both tourists and locals alike. Now, the £16 million investment is set to bring new retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and business units to the outskirts, particularly around the Craigtoun area. This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy and provide much-needed amenities to support the growing population. The proposed project, submitted to Fife Council by West Coast Estates, will introduce new restaurants, office spaces, and business units to the western edge of St Andrews, specifically at Craigtoun. If approved, this development is expected to create around 170 permanent jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy. Additionally, a further 100 jobs are expected to be generated during the construction phase, contributing to a vibrant future for the town. St Andrews is not just famous for its golf courses – it's also a hub for tourism and culture. Visitors flock to its stunning beaches, including the West Sands, which was featured in the iconic film Chariots of Fire. The town's historic charm, combined with modern amenities, makes it a magnet for both locals and tourists alike. Its mix of ancient landmarks, including St Andrews Castle and the famed university, with modern cultural offerings, ensures it remains a top destination year-round. West Coast Estates, the developers behind this ambitious project, believe that the £16 million investment will deliver long-term economic benefits. Director Ifikar Mian explained, 'The site is ideally located to provide much-needed amenities and services for the community, and it will play a key role in the wider Craigtoun Masterplan.' This will include over 1,000 homes in addition to the retail and business spaces, ensuring the area remains vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors. The inclusion of new homes will also cater to the increasing demand for accommodation in this picturesque and bustling town. The developers are confident that the new development will become a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves. The plan aligns with St Andrews' growing reputation as a thriving, must-visit destination, offering not only breathtaking views and historic sites but now, enhanced commercial facilities. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. For residents, the added retail and restaurant spaces mean more options for shopping and dining, something that has long been requested by the local community. The development will also bring new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with the space to grow and thrive in a rapidly expanding town. With St Andrews' blend of historical significance and modern lifestyle, the addition of these facilities will make the town an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development. With the addition of new restaurants and business units, visitors will have even more reason to explore this renowned town. St Andrews has long been a magnet for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers, but with these new offerings, the town is ready to attract an even wider range of tourists, including those interested in a vibrant food scene and diverse retail experiences. This transformation could reshape St Andrews, maintaining its status as one of Scotland's top coastal towns while meeting the growing demand for modern services. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. As the development moves forward, it's clear that St Andrews is poised to remain at the forefront of Scotland's coastal charm while expanding its business and economic prospects. In the long run, the plans for Craigtoun are not just about economic growth but also about fostering a thriving, sustainable community. With an increased number of residents and businesses in the area, local schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities are expected to receive additional support. The project's forward-thinking design and community focus are expected to set the tone for the future development of St Andrews, ensuring it remains a beacon of success in Scotland's coastal towns for years to come. 5 5
The Irish Sun
01-05-2025
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Popular seaside town dubbed a ‘must-visit' set for HUGE £16million retail and restaurant development
A POPULAR seaside town, renowned for its charm and historical significance, is set to undergo a major £16 million transformation. 5 This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy Credit: Getty 5 The developers are confident that the new project will create a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves Credit: Getty 5 Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development This ambitious retail and restaurant development promises to reshape the town's landscape, bringing new business opportunities, jobs, and amenities to the area. The project is poised to enhance the town's appeal, solidifying its status as one of the UK's must-visit coastal destinations. Famous worldwide for its golf heritage and stunning coastal views, the town attracts both tourists and locals alike. Now, the £16 million investment is set to bring new retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and business units to the outskirts, particularly around the Craigtoun area. Read more on Travel This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy and provide much-needed amenities to support the growing population. The proposed project, submitted to Fife Council by West Coast Estates, will introduce new restaurants, office spaces, and business units to the western edge of St Andrews, specifically at Craigtoun. If approved, this development is expected to create around 170 permanent jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy. Additionally, a further 100 jobs are expected to be generated during the construction phase, contributing to a vibrant future for the town. Most read in News Travel St Andrews is not just famous for its golf courses – it's also a hub for tourism and culture. Visitors flock to its stunning beaches, including the West Sands, which was featured in the iconic film Chariots of Fire. The town's historic charm, combined with modern amenities, makes it a magnet for both locals and tourists alike. Its mix of ancient landmarks, including St Andrews Castle and the famed university, with modern cultural offerings, ensures it remains a top destination year-round. West Coast Estates, the developers behind this ambitious project, believe that the £16 million investment will deliver long-term economic benefits. Director Ifikar Mian explained, 'The site is ideally located to provide much-needed amenities and services for the community, and it will play a key role in the wider Craigtoun Masterplan.' This will include over 1,000 homes in addition to the retail and business spaces, ensuring the area remains vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors. The inclusion of new homes will also cater to the increasing demand for accommodation in this picturesque and bustling town. The developers are confident that the new development will become a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves. The plan aligns with St Andrews' growing reputation as a thriving, must-visit destination, offering not only breathtaking views and historic sites but now, enhanced commercial facilities. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. For residents, the added retail and restaurant spaces mean more options for shopping and dining, something that has long been requested by the local community. The development will also bring new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with the space to grow and thrive in a rapidly expanding town. With St Andrews' blend of historical significance and modern lifestyle, the addition of these facilities will make the town an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development. With the addition of new restaurants and business units, visitors will have even more reason to explore this renowned town. St Andrews has long been a magnet for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers, but with these new offerings, the town is ready to attract an even wider range of tourists, including those interested in a vibrant food scene and diverse retail experiences. This transformation could reshape St Andrews, maintaining its status as one of Scotland's top coastal towns while meeting the growing demand for modern services. The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community. As the development moves forward, it's clear that St Andrews is poised to remain at the forefront of Scotland's coastal charm while expanding its business and economic prospects. In the long run, the plans for Craigtoun are not just about economic growth but also about fostering a thriving, sustainable community. With an increased number of residents and businesses in the area, local schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities are expected to receive additional support. The project's forward-thinking design and community focus are expected to set the tone for the future development of St Andrews, ensuring it remains a beacon of success in Scotland's coastal towns for years to come. 5 Looking out over the East Sands in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland Credit: Getty 5 St Andrews is not just famous for its golf courses; it's also a hub for tourism and culture Credit: Getty
