Latest news with #DesClarke
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Scots BBC star announces shock career move after taking new role at rival show
The star took to social media to announce his news. A Scots BBC star and popular radio host has announced he is leaving his current position to go and work for a rival station. Two Doors Down and Scotland's Greatest Escape star Grado has revealed he will be joining Heart Scotland's Breakfast Show. It comes weeks after it was announced that the 37-year-old wrestling star from North Ayrshire had left his role at Scottish radio station, Go Radio. Grado, whose real name is Graeme Stevely, shared the news with fans on his Facebook page this morning and also revealed a huge guest he will be welcoming on the show's first week. Sharing a snap of himself beside Des Clarke and Adele Cunningham, he wrote: "Buzzin to let everyone know that I'll be joining the all new Heart Scotland Breakfast Show! Des Clarke, Adele and ma'sel. Catch us from this Monday at 6.30am for the biggest and best tunes, celebrity interviews and all the carry on. "Also, in the studio next week, one of our first guests - Lewis Capaldi. "Get us on FM and DAB across the central belt or on Global Player the official Heart app, via smart phone or smart speaker. Follow us on insta @heartscotland." He signed off by saying: "CANNY WAIT, TIDY." Heart Breakfast Show listeners appeared to be delighted with the news as they left messages of support on the post. One wrote: "Congratulations, that's great news. I'd tune in for Grado." A second commented: "Well in mate! Some boy." A third penned: "Fab well done. Looking forward to listening to you." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. 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. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Grado will be joined Des Clarke and Adele Cunningham from 6.30-10am each weekday. Adele decided to return to the station after previous stints with the brand and Clyde 1 and Real Radio. Andy Everett, Managing Editor for Scotland & Wales at Global, said: 'The three of them together are pure dynamite. Just what our listeners need to start the day right.' Grado has been replaced by panto pal and River City actor Stephen Purdon. The 42-year-old will be joined by co-host Zoe Kelly on the station's Breakfast Show on weekdays from 6am to 10am. He said: "I'm buzzing to be joining the Go Radio family. "I've been a Go Radio listener since the station launched and getting the chance to wake up Glasgow and the West with lots of laughs and chat is a dream come true.' James Maguire, Programme Controller at Go Radio, added: 'From his role in River City to his annual Pavilion Theatre panto performances, Stephen is a natural entertainer with a genuine love for Glasgow and its people. "We're delighted to welcome him to the Go Radio Breakfast Show – it's going to bring a new dynamic to the show's existing winning formula of great chat, music, news and competitions.'
Scottish Sun
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
BBC star announces shock career move after leaving for RIVAL show
The star announced the news on social media Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A BBC star and popular radio host has jumped ship to a rival station. Two Doors Down and Scotland's Greatest Escape star Grado has announced he's joining Heart Scotland's Breakfast Show. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 3 The star, known for his stints on BBC shows, has announced his career move Credit: EPA 3 Grado with his new breakfast co-stars Credit: FACEBOOK It comes weeks after we revealed the wrestling star, 37, had left Go Radio. Grado announced the news on his Facebook page this morning and also revealed a huge guest for the show's first week. He said: "Buzzin to let everyone know that I'll be joining the all new Heart Scotland Breakfast Show! Des Clarke, Adele and ma'sel. "Catch us from this Monday at 6.30am for the biggest and best tunes, celebrity interviews and all the carry on. "Also, in the studio next week, one of our first guests - Lewis Capaldi." Grado will be joined Des Clarke and Adele Cunningham from 6.30-10am each weekday. Adele has returned to the station after previous stints with the brand and Clyde 1 and Real Radio. Andy Everett, Managing Editor for Scotland & Wales at Global, said: 'The three of them together are pure dynamite. Just what our listeners need to start the day right.' He has now been replaced by panto pal and River City star Stephen Purdon. Purdon, 42, will be joined by co-host Zoe Kelly on the station's Breakfast Show weekdays from 6am to 10am. Moment Grado brings back iconic character at Ayr races He said: "I'm buzzing to be joining the Go Radio family. "I've been a Go Radio listener since the station launched and getting the chance to wake up Glasgow and the West with lots of laughs and chat is a dream come true.'
Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Scottish Legal Awards 2025: celebrating excellence in a transformative year
Preparations are underway for the 22nd Scottish Legal Awards – an event poised once again to shine a spotlight on the profession's most outstanding talent © Martin Windebank While the big night is still on the horizon, this year's competition has already made headlines with a record-breaking number of entries: over 100 submissions from more than 50 law firms, organisations, and individuals. Unsurprisingly, demand for tables at the awards dinner is already heating up as it is fast becoming one of the most sought-after bookings in this autumn's corporate calendar. A night to remember The 2025 edition of Scotland's premier independent legal awards programme takes place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central on Thursday, September 18, where the legal community will see their peers recognised for exceptional achievement. Hosted by popular broadcaster Des Clarke, the ceremony represents the culmination of months of rigorous judging by a distinguished 15-member panel led by Chair Lorna Jack, former chief executive of the Law Society of Scotland. This year's awards arrive at a defining moment for Scottish law. The profession is navigating unprecedented challenges and opportunities – from the adoption of artificial intelligence to new regulatory frameworks – while maintaining its unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. The ceremony will celebrate not only current excellence but also the vision and adaptability that will define the sector's future. The awards programme is proudly supported by headline sponsor Denovo, a legal technology company that has been helping Scottish law firms for more than 40 years. Steven Hill, Managing Director of Denovo, is an enthusiastic champion of the awards and what they represent: He said: 'This event plays a crucial role in recognising the incredible work and achievements of the Scottish legal community – something we are passionate about supporting. 'At Denovo, we see real synergy between the Awards' celebration of excellence and our own mission to help Scottish law firms succeed and make their working lives a little easier.' He added: 'Our business was founded here in Scotland, and we're proud to have grown alongside so many fantastic law firms. Supporting such a prestigious event demonstrates our long-term commitment to the Scottish legal sector. We look forward to celebrating the outstanding talent, innovation, and dedication that make this profession so special.' © Martin Windebank The awards take place against the backdrop of a legal landscape that is changing rapidly. The Legal Services Regulation (Scotland) Bill, passed in May 2025, has strengthened oversight of solicitors and improved consumer protection. The rollout of Civil Online now allows lawyers to handle civil claims digitally in the Court of Session and sheriff courts, making processes faster and more efficient. Perhaps most notably, Scottish firms are embracing artificial intelligence in ways that seemed impossible just a few years ago. Many practices are reporting that AI tools help them complete routine tasks like document review and contract analysis much faster than before. But the impact of new technology goes well beyond simple timesaving. Law firms are now looking for trainees and newly qualified solicitors who can work confidently with AI tools, while senior lawyers are learning to oversee these new systems responsibly. It's a shift that's changing how legal work gets done at every level. Recognising excellence This year's awards programme features 20 categories that cover the full range of legal expertise across Scotland. For the first time, the Firm of the Year award has been split into two categories – large firms with over 250 employees and smaller practices with under 250 employees – recognising that different sized firms face distinct challenges and have particular strengths. A brand-new category, Marketing & Business Development Team of the Year, has been introduced to reflect how important it has become for firms to connect with clients and grow their business. Other categories like Excellence in Equity & Inclusion and Excellence in Support & Wellbeing take account of the fact that the profession is increasingly focusing on the mental and physical health of the people responsible for delivering the services as much as on the quality of the services themselves. © Martin Windebank Company awards encompass Firm of the Year categories for both large and small practices, alongside Excellence in Client Care, Community Care & Social Responsibility, Excellence in Equity & Inclusion, and Excellence in Support & Wellbeing. Team awards recognise specialist expertise across Litigation, Property, In-House Legal, Criminal Defence, Legal Technology & Support, Family Law or Private Client, and the new Marketing & Business Development categories. Individual awards celebrate personal achievement through the Lifetime Achievement Award (sponsored by The Times), Business Leadership Award, Lawyer of the Year, Paralegal of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, Advocate of the Year, and Law Champion of the Year. Championing the people Throughout 2025, Scottish law firms have made real progress in creating more inclusive workplaces. Many are introducing better wellbeing programmes, offering more flexible working options, and developing specific support for underrepresented groups in the profession. The Excellence in Equity & Inclusion and Excellence in Support & Wellbeing categories showcase the firms leading this charge, demonstrating that being a great place to work is just as important as delivering excellent legal services. The awards also recognise the vital role of support staff and paralegals in making law firms work effectively. The thousands of paralegals working across Scotland combine the legal acumen with operational support that are essential to delivering high quality legal services, Scotland's legal profession now offers many different types of roles, with support staff using sophisticated technology and contributing expertise that goes far beyond traditional administrative tasks. The Legal Technology & Support Team of the Year category features eight finalists, while the Paralegal of the Year category celebrates outstanding individual contributions. The Scottish Legal Awards is also proudly continuing its tradition of supporting charitable causes that strengthen the legal profession's foundation. The Lawscot Foundation helps overcome socio-economic barriers to legal education by providing £2,750 annual scholarships to talented students pursuing Scots law degrees, while It's Good 2 Give supports young cancer patients and their families across Scotland, funding psychologist posts in children's oncology wards and operating the Ripple Retreat on the shores of Loch Venachar. © Martin Windebank With September fast approaching, anticipation is building for what promises to be a memorable evening celebrating Scottish legal excellence. The 2025 awards will highlight the remarkable achievements of professionals and firms who have excelled during a year of significant change and progress. From innovative technology adoption to groundbreaking diversity initiatives, from exceptional client service to outstanding community contributions, the ceremony will showcase the very best of what Scotland's legal profession has to offer. Join the celebrations and share in the excitement by booking tickets on the awards website at
Daily Record
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Airdrie Town Hall to host 'LOL Comedy Airdrie' with Des Clarke and 'The Therapy Room'
A double dose of side-splitting comedy that is guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches next month. Get ready to roll in the aisles at Airdrie Town Hall as the venue hosts two unmissable comedy nights. LOL Comedy Airdrie with beloved Scottish comedian and presenter Des Clarke and The Therapy Room are a double dose of side-splitting comedy that is guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches next month. Des Clarke takes the mic on August 9 for a night of high-energy hilarity. Known for his quick wit on BBC Radio Scotland's Breaking the News and as the voice of mornings on Heart Radio Scotland, Des will bring his trademark charm and razor-sharp humour to the Airdrie stage Joining Des are three comedy heavyweights: Scott Forbes - a rising star with a knack for the unexpected; John Gavin - dry, sharp, and always on point; and your MC for the evening, the ever-charismatic Rob Kane, keeping the laughs rolling all night long. After a sold-out return in May, The Therapy Room is back with another stellar line-up of comedy legends and fresh talent on August 16. Phil Differ is a comedy writing icon with more than 40 years in the business, from TV to Vegas. Matt Price is a master storyteller with a heart of gold and a punchline for every occasion. And Gavin Webster is a cult comedy hero from the North-East of England, known for his bold, original routines and sardonic songs. As always, the night will be compered by Airdrie's own Patrick Rolink, a seasoned performer with a global comedy resume and a local's love for his hometown crowd. For tickets and more information on both shows, call the box office team on 01698 274545 or visit *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Luxury Scots hotel in popular seaside spot crowned best spa & golf destination
Read on for the full list of winners A LUXURY hotel located in a popular Scottish seaside spot has been crowned the best spa and golf destination. The Gailes Hotel scooped the top gong at this year's highly-valued Innis and Gunn Prestige Hotel Awards. 4 The Gailes hotel in Irvine has been crowned the best spa and golf destination Credit: SimpsInns 4 The on-site restaurant serves up some tasty meals for guests 4 An overnight spa break includes a hot tub The Oscars of the hotel world were dished out at a swanky ceremony in Glasgow last week. Finalists from all over Scotland attended the event which was hosted by Des Clarke at Doubletree By Hilton. And the Gailes Hotel on Marine Drive in Irvine, Ayrshire, scooped the award for the best spa and golf hotel. The hotel and spa is owned by Irvine-based Simpson family, who are the driving force behind SimpsInns. They own and operate a collection of award- winning hotels, restaurants, bars, spas, golf and leisure activities along the Ayrshire coast, including The Loans at Troon. Located just 40 minutes from Glasgow, The Gailes Hotel & Spa has a reputation as one of Ayrshire's leading luxury wellness destinations, offering a collection of over 50 personalised treatments, day spa packages and overnight chill-out breaks. It's surrounded by some of Scotland's world famous links courses plus there's a full range of facilities on site at Gailes Golf. Western Gailes, Dundonald Links and Gailes Links are on their doorstep, while Open Championship venues such as Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick are all within easy reach. On site, golf fanatics can enjoy Ayrshire's only Toptracer driving range, PGA teaching studio and much more. SimpsInns' Waterside Hotel at West Kilbride was also Highly Recommended in the Four Star Hotel category. Inside the invite-only superyacht 'sea hotel' with four-story penthouse - & another $450m 'twin' ship is on the way Malcolm Simpson from SimpsInns, said: "We're extremely proud to have been recognised once again as an industry leader and for offering some of the best hotel, spa and golf experiences in Scotland. "This latest award success for two of our hotels is testament to the hard work of our amazing team, who continually go above and beyond to ensure every guest enjoys a fantastic experience with us and keep coming back." Malcolm added: "Continued investment has been a key strategy for the growth of Simpsinns over the last three years, with over £4 million invested across the group. We're committed to enhancing the quality of the guest experience across the group, including our newly refurbished restaurant at Loans Inn and the addition of 17 new bedrooms and sea view spa at The Waterside later this year." Awards Director Warren Paul said: "It's worth saying the calibre of the people here tonight is quite incredible – it's fantastic for us to see very senior bosses from hotels across the country here in person introducing their future generations to us, and demonstrating just how important and impactful these awards can be. 4 The venue has a reputation as one of Ayrshire's leading luxury wellness destinations "They're all the very best operators in Scotland, delivering amazing service and much- needed escape from the rigours of modern life. "We all need time out to rest, recover, recharge – especially right now – so our world-class, in fact world-beating hospitality industry should be celebrated and shouted from the rooftops. "I really wish the powers that be would support and help the hard-working people who give up their weekends, days and nights to offer the rest of us all sorts of amazing breaks and escapes. "Whatever you want to do, you can find it in Scotland – and here tonight. Full list of Prestige 2025 winners BEST 3* Hotel - Brander Lodge Hotel BEST 4* Hotel (CENTRAL( - The Parklands Hotel, Perth BEST 4* Hotel (EAST) - The Scholar Hotel BEST 4* Hotel (NORTH) - The Glenesk Country House Hotel and Spa BEST 4* Hotel (WEST) - Glasgow Marriott Hotel BEST 5* Hotel - Rusacks St. Andrews BEST B&B / GUESTHOUSE - The Auld Kirk B&B BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Cromlix BEST CITY HOTEL - Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel BEST CONCIERGE - Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow – John Leese BEST COUNTRY HOTEL - Kingshouse Hotel, Glencoe BEST ECO/SUSTAINABLE HOTEL - Voco Haymarket Edinburgh BEST EVENTS AND CONFERENCE HOTEL - Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow BEST GENERAL MANAGER - Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central – Andrew Diegan BEST HISTORIC/HERITAGE HOTEL - Cromlix BEST HOLIDAY RENTAL ACCOMDATION - Harris Hideaway BEST HOTEL BAR - Radisson RED Glasgow BEST HOTEL RESTAURANT - Rusacks St. Andrews BEST INDEPENDENTLY OWNED HOTEL - Glynhill Hotel & Spa BEST ISLAND HOTEL - Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa BEST PET FRIENDLY HOTEL - The Riverside Lodge Hotel BEST SPA/GOLF HOTEL - The Gailes Hotel & Spa BEST TEAM - The Scholar Hotel BEST VALUE HOTEL - Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen BEST WEDDING HOTEL - Lochside House Hotel RAD "From the perfect wedding hotel to the most incredible hotel bar in the heart of Glasgow's music city, country retreats, island hotels, bustling city breaks, cosy retreats for private rental, all of it. "We have it all, Scotland really is special and the offerings in this trade are stellar. That's why we are here – to showcase the results of the hard work by so many people, and to recognise and thank them." Elsewhere at the awards, Andy Murray's luxury five-star Cromlix resort served up a double win at the Hotel Oscars. And the Best Value award went to the Holiday Inn Express hotel in Aberdeen. Other standouts including Rusacks St Andrews, Edinburgh's Voco Haymarket and Radisson RED Glasgow picked up key honours.
