Latest news with #DarrellBenns
Press and Journal
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Press and Journal
All the best pictures from the Aberdeen Glee Challenge regional final
A champion school was crowned as Aberdeen's Glee Challenge regional final took place at the Music Hall last night. The winners from the previous rounds came together for one final performance to decide who would be crowned the city's best.. There have been some fantastic performances from all of the schools involved across the heats. But after a hotly-contested competition, those primary schools taking part in the final were Skene, Ashley Road, Fernielea, Elrick, and Seafield. The big winner, after a night of 'Scottish contemporary pop and rock' ended up being the youngsters of Fernielea. They will now go forward for the National Final, which will take place on June 22 at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh. The competition is organised by the Frisson Foundation, which works to encourage primary school kids to get involved with music and the arts. Our photographer Darrell Benns was there to capture all the action from the regional final.
Press and Journal
08-05-2025
- Sport
- Press and Journal
Hyrox Aberdeen? 'Matter of time' before event in Aberdeen, says chief of north-east sports centre leaning into fitness racing craze
A sports centre boss has backed Aberdeen for an official Hyrox race – saying the fitness phenomenon is 'all anyone talks about' around his Inverurie facility. Garioch Sports Centre have leaned into the Hyrox exercise trend, investing £15,000 to develop Hyrox-specific facilities and purchase the equipment to hold Hyrox classes in their sports hall. They have also added their name to a growing list of Hyrox-affiliated gyms in the region. Garioch chief operating officer Kevin Bonarius says the centre have attracted 40 new members – £2,000 in monthly income – due to their Hyrox focus, with 50 people signing up to take part in Hyrox classes, despite a 30-participant limit. A Hyrox fitness class at Garioch Sports Centre. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. There is a global buzz around mass-participation sports craze Hyrox – where eight 1km runs are punctuated with a variety of exercise stations, including sled push/pulls, burpees and lunges. Athletes can compete at open, pro or even elite levels, and in singles, doubles or relay competition. People would fly 'from all over' to take part in Hyrox Aberdeen The rapid upwards trend of the sport's popularity is reflected at Garioch, Kevin says, joking: 'I'm kind of sick of talking about it, to be honest, because everyone talks about it!' There is currently just one Scottish stop on the schedule of official global Hyrox races, at Glasgow's SEC, but Kevin thinks an Aberdeen event, at P&J Live, should 'absolutely' be added to the calendar. He said: 'They (P&J Live) are already delivering the Rogue Invitational (elite CrossFit/strongman event) and it's hugely popular, so I think it's a matter of time before Hyrox is coming here. 'It's all anyone talks about really. In the gym, ask about Hyrox – everyone does competitions. That's what everyone talks about now. Running during a Hyrox fitness class at Garioch Sports Centre. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. 'The demand is there to have large-scale events, and for me, Aberdeen needs to be on that calendar of Hyrox events every year, because you're going to get everyone from the Highlands coming down. 'You're going to have people from probably Glasgow coming up, (and) people flying up from all over the place to take part in that. 'I think the success of the CrossFit last year and the fact it's back this year… I think shows that there's demand.' Garioch Sports Centre planning own Hyrox 'sim' events When asked, a P&J Live spokeswoman said they are yet to hold talks with Hyrox chiefs on bringing one of their events to the Dyce venue – but Garioch Sports Centre are set to fill the void in the meantime. The sled pull event during a Hyrox race. Image: Shutterstock. While several Garioch members are already travelling elsewhere to compete in official races, including upcoming trips to Cardiff and Gdansk, they will soon be able to compete in 'sim' – simulation – Hyrox races on-site in Inverurie. These competitions will likely also be opened up to competitors from other north-east gyms down the line. Kevin explained: 'We're going to look at doing one on Saturday the 9th of August as our first one, which will be a members-only event, just so we can trial it. 'We've got our grass pitches outside, 3G football pitches, so if the weather's good we can turn that into almost an arena. 'We can get an audience – we can get a crowd. Family, friends can come down and watch as well. 'Cardiff, that's at the Principality Stadium, so we're trying to mirror that set-up of how the event works with running around the outer edge of the arena and then all the exercises in the centre.' Why is Hyrox so popular? On why he thinks Hyrox – 'The World Series of Fitness Racing' – has taken off so quickly, to the level UK event entries are via ballot and all of the official events attract thousands of competitors, Kevin thinks the key is the inclusivity of the sport. He said: 'Anyone can do it – any age, any ability… and that's very much what we are as a centre in terms of that kind of pathway for life. We provide for newborns through seniors – and I see Hyrox as that. Wall balls during a Hyrox fitness class at Garioch Sports Centre. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. 'You can do it at any point, it's adaptable, you can mix up the workouts for different experiences and different fitness levels, and everyone can take part at the same time, so I think that's why it's proven so successful for us. 'We've got from 12, 13 years of age through to 70-plus, and we can have that in a class at one time, which is amazing to see, and all taking part together, supporting each other, which is probably the most pleasing thing to see when we're running it – there's no barrier.' Read more Hyrox content from The Press and Journal
Press and Journal
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Press and Journal
Warning to Clubland fans over BANNED glowsticks: All you need to know ahead of P&J Live show
Excited dancers and ravers may have to rethink their accessories for Friday nights Clubland event in Aberdeen. Ahead of the show, P&J Live has reminded ticketholders that glowsticks are banned from the arena. Glowsticks are outlawed at the venue, but for this particular event, organisers have warned visitors any glowsticks brought along will be confiscated. Iconic dance acts, including Basshunter and Cascada, will take to the stage to perform their biggest tracks at the Aberdeen stop of the tour. Take a look back at last year's event here. Will you be attending the show? Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. When does the show start and end? Doors open for the event at 6pm, and the show kicks off at 7pm. P&J Live has reminded ticketholders to be logged into their Ticketmaster or AXS app with their tickets open upon arrival. The show ends at 10.30pm, with an 11pm curfew. Those hoping to park near the venue are encouraged to arrive early and can park at the surface car park or the sub-T underground car park. All parking, including accessible spaces, are charged at the standard tariff rates. Cascada will take to the stage. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson Tickets still available The full lineup for the show is Basshunter, Ben Nicky, Cascada, Darren Styles, Flip N Fill, Karen Parry, Kelly Llorenna, and Ultrabeat. Tickets are still available and can be purchased here. Last years event wowed those in attendance. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. Under-14s cannot purchase standing tickets, and instead must be in the seated area with an adult over the age of 18. Under-16s are permitted into the standing area if they are accompanied by an over-18. Prohibited items Alongside glowsticks, large bags, backpacks of any kind, and umbrellas are not permitted. Food and drink purchased from outside the venue are not allowed to be taken inside. The crowds will be out in Aberdeen this Friday. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson. Free water is available from coolers across the venue. Kiosks and bars will be put in place to serve refreshments, food and snacks. Fans can also pick up merchandise, which will be available on the ground floor concourse.
Press and Journal
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Press and Journal
What did I think of my first ever trip on Stonehaven's bright blue tour train?
There is no better place to spend a sunny day than Stonehaven. I doubt anyone would argue that with renowned ice cream shops like Auntie Betty's and Giulianotti – and, of course, The Bay Fish and Chips – it has all the perfect ingredients for a trip to the seaside. But while I have been to the coastal town many a time, I had never heard of the Stoney Express – Stonehaven's distinctive tour train. Until this week, that is. The light-blue 'locomotive' has now made a return for this summer after being out of action for about six years. So naturally, I was intrigued to find out what this popular experience entails, and why folk were so excited to see it come back… The vibrant Stoney Express in Stonehaven's Market Square. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson All aboard the Stoney Express! As I drove with my colleague into the town, the sun creeping through the clouds, the much loved 'wee train' already stood in all its glory at Market Square. I was greeted with the beaming faces of the Stoney Express crew and eagerly hopped on board for the train's fifth – and my very first – run of the day. All the intricate details had been carefully thought about – from the Stoney Express logo stickers handed over to passengers, to the captain's hat I get wear for the ride. Can you tell I was buzzing with excitement for my first ride? Image: Denny Andonova/DC Thomson. As soon as took my seat on the train, I felt as if I was being transported back to my childhood days. There was something special about being on this toy-like train – laughing, singing and waving to the crowds you're passing by without a care in the world. I never thought I'd be able to relive those days – and yet, here I was. Once all the passengers were in their seats, we were taken through a quick safety briefing reminding us to keep our arms and legs inside at all times. Smiles all round with our captain hats on. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson Then followed a surprise announcement – we were to ride with the pipe band playing all the way through Stonehaven from the back of the train. 'Have you ever been on a train with a pipe band playing just for you?' project manager Julie Lindeman chuckles as she helps another family jump on board. 'Well, it's your lucky day!' What is the Stoney Express route? And just like that, we embarked on our journey around the town. We started off Market Square, with the train slowly weaving its way through the town centre and towards the open air pool. I still can't decide what was the best part of that – the salty breeze coming from across the promenade or the dozens that stopped in their step to wave at us. Dunnottar Pipes and Drums treating us to tunes throughout the journey. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson I was sat at the front seat behind the driver, so dare I say, I felt like a royalty for a bit. That quickly came to a halt once we entered the caravan park and our tranquil trip was disrupted by a series of speed bumps. Suddenly, it felt more like I was on a off-road rally stage. But I think all passengers on board would agree with me in saying that this was just another amusing experience that made the journey all the more memorable. The Stoney Express at the harbour. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson Echoed throughout the carriages was the infectious sound of songs and laughter as 'Wheels on the Bus' turned into 'Wheels on the Train', and we made a sharp turn towards the harbour. Normally, the train would go to Dunnottar Castle before stopping at the promenade. But with a carriage full of pipers this time round, making it a wee bit heavy, that probably wouldn't have been the smartest decision, Julie laughs. Instead, the band stepped out and led the Stoney Express for a quick loop around the harbour, bustling with dozens of locals enjoying the nice weather. We sat for a minute and admired the band's melodies, taking in the surroundings of the harbour as the sun shone down… A memorable way to bring the tour to an end. The Stoney Express on its tour of Stonehaven. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson 'I remember the train running years ago so its really nice to see it back' Before we knew it, we were back at Market Square where I managed a quick chat with one of my fellow passengers. Kristina Rettie had come from Aberdeen's Bridge of Don for the launch of the train, bringing her two children out for the day. It was also a chance for them to see their granddad Gary – who is now one of the conductors – in action. Kristina and her family. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson 'I remember the train running years and years ago when we used to come down for the day every now and again,' she reminisces. 'So its really nice to see it back. 'Its really nice for the community and you can tell from the people who have been involved that its quite emotional.' NHS worker turned train driver 'chuffed to see happy passengers' Next to her stands the other conductor Andy McArdle. Leaning over the land train, Andy tells me that he used to be an NHS worker before he retired. He's always been very fond of supporting community initiatives such as the Stoney Express so when an opportunity to drive it presented itself, he just couldn't refuse. And – in an even more unexpected turn of events – his newly acquired qualifications for the train also mean he is able to drive a Stagecoach bus. Julie and Andy with a few of their first passengers. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson That's if he fancies yet another career jump, of course, but for now he says he's happy with the train's front seat. 'It's just a blast,' the 68-year-old smiles. 'When you get on it its just such fun, and it brings so much excitement to the kids that see it pass through the town. I can recommend it to anybody.' 'Stoney Express is for all to enjoy' As I'm about to leave, Julie stands on the curb – watching all the passengers share their experience on the train with huge grins on their faces. This is a big day for her, having spent the last three years trying to get the Stoney Express back up and running. With tears in her eyes, she says none of this would have been possible without the immense support from the community and the local sponsors who stepped in. And she can't wait to properly launch it at the end of May for all to experience and enjoy. 'The train was very much missed, and I was so pleased that we have now brought it back,' she smiles. 'It's for the tourists, it's for the town, it's for everyone to enjoy.' And speaking from personal experience, I believe they will. Read more:
Press and Journal
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Press and Journal
The Stoney Express: Photos capture tour train's return ahead of summer boom
The beloved Stonehaven tour train – The Stoney Express – returned in a colourful celebration today after being out of action for more than six years. Under the sound of pipes – and the occasional toot toot – the vehicle welcomed all ages aboard, with dozens more lining up to see the distinctive blue land locomotive. The tour train was first launched in 2014. But despite its popularity, it was put out of action in 2019 and remained hidden in a storage unit in the years that followed. And after three years of efforts to bring it back, volunteers today had tears in their eyes as they witnessed The Stoney Express tooting along the town streets once again. Crowds of smiling faces gathered along the streets to wave it on as it embarked on its fifth journey of the day around Stonehaven. Starting in Market Square, the train took happy travellers around the town, before stopping at the harbour allowing passengers to take in the breathtaking views. The experience was made all the more special with the sounds of the Dunnottar Pipes and Drums band, which played from the back of the train throughout the journey. Our photographer Darrell Benns was there to capture the monumental day.
