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Daily Mail
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
He's shredded! Brian Cox delivers a VERY public flogging for Britain's most odious banker
In days gone by there were designated areas in Scotland's capital for public floggings – the Grassmarket for example, or Mercat Cross. These ritual spankings were administered on behalf of the good people who, in their outrage at transgressions beyond the pale, demanded brutal satisfaction. Few of us may have the stomach for them today. But a 21st century spanking is taking place nightly in Edinburgh a short walk from the spots where the old ones used to happen. The new location is the Festival Theatre. There's scarcely a spare seat to be had. Granted, the villain of the piece – a Mr Fred Goodwin – takes his beating in absentia, although he would be welcome to buy a ticket if penitence were his thing, which we know it isn't. But a spanking is what it indubitably is – two hours and 40 minutes of metaphorical thwacks to the bare bottom of Britain's most odious banker. And who does the flogging? Scottish actor Brian Cox, for one – appearing as the ghost of economist Adam Smith and tearing a strip off Fred the Shred. Did we onlookers have the stomach for it? Hell yes. Was there amusement to be had in an early retiree's humiliation before an audience of his hometown peers? We laughed like drains. When it was over, there was a standing ovation. People left the auditorium smiling, brutal satisfaction delivered. That Goodwin fellow? He had it coming. Make it Happen – the title of this 'fictionalised satire' by James Graham – is what the former Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) chief executive used to say when he was delegating. It might be responsibility for redecorating the lobby outside his office with £1,000 a roll wallpaper or having fresh fruit flown in daily from Paris. What he memorably made happen under his own steam was the implosion of a centuries-old bank, the loss of 26,000 employees' jobs and the saddling of the taxpayer with a multi-billion-pound bill. Then he made his exit stage left happen – along with his six-figure pension pot. I caught the play's Edinburgh Festival premiere this week, joining almost 2000 others for a delicious form of revenge therapy. True, not all the charges libelled here are strictly accurate. There is no record of Goodwin actually leaning on Edinburgh's Lord Provost to persuade John Lewis to give up their flagship Scottish to facilitate the expansion of his city centre empire. It may be a stretch to suppose Goodwin sacked an underling simply because she had neither Prime Minister Gordon Brown nor Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling on speed dial. Did Goodwin really tell his mistress 'talk dirty' during stolen moments in flagrante in an office cupboard – and would such dirty talk really have been a stream of banking buzz words? Speculation at best. But, of course, this is fiction – apart from all the stuff that is horrifying fact. Indeed, much of the fun here derives from identifying the line between the two. You may assume it fanciful that, at the crazed height of the Goodwin expansionist era, the bank's assets included a graveyard in the American deep south. It really happened. Is a spot of artistic licence employed in nicknaming the morning meetings with the bullying CEO the 'morning beatings'? Nope. That is how they were known. It all begins inauspiciously enough when a diffident Goodwin arrives for an interview in Edinburgh with RBS CEO George Mathewson who is looking for his heir apparent. Awkward and with west coast, working class vowels, he seems a poor fit. To Edinburgh's preening banking establishment he is a coarse outsider from – horror of horrors – a council estate in Paisley's Ferguslie Park. But Goodwin impresses with his masterplan to stave off takeovers and maintain the bank's proud name: 'To stay independent,' he declares, 'you have to grow …' And so the madness begins. You may wonder how a financial institution's growth era can possibly be reproduced on a bare stage – even why anyone would attempt it. Well, having your cast burst into song seems to help. If it sounds bonkers, you soon remind yourself it is no more bonkers than the events being depicted here. There are ensemble renditions of Adele's Chasing Pavements, of Keane's Somewhere Only We Know and Franz Ferdinand's Take Me Out – all contemporaneous with Goodwin's decade of banking megalomania. And if the song Especially for You – a hit for Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan in 1989 – doesn't quite fit the timeline, you delight in hearing Fred the Shred duet on it with the ghost of Adam Smith anyway. Can either Brian Cox or Goodwin actor Sandy Grierson even sing? Barely a note. In a play about hare-brained recklessness that seemed somehow the point. It's the interplay between the pioneering Enlightenment economist and his wrongheaded 21st century devotee that proves the drama's real stroke of genius. Goodwin orders a flunky to source a first edition copy of Smith's seminal work The Wealth of Nations to take pride of place in the RBS HQ and, after it arrives, so does the author in spirit form. 'Where the f*** am I?' wonders Cox, playing Smith, while Goodwin wonders whether the stress of acquisitions has brought on apparitions. On discovering he's in the future, standing in the bank where his 18th century savings are lodged, the great man inquires how they are doing. 'What's your account number?' asks Goodwin. 'Four,' comes the answer. The serious point behind their encounters, of course, is Smith's commentary on the economic vandalism perpetrated in his name by his number one fan. Oops. It turns out Goodwin has misinterpreted virtually every page of the economic bible and, bewilderingly for the author, embarked on a programme of aggressive capitalism. 'You've got me all wrong,' he says, scandalised at Goodwin's insistence that he is the father of modern capitalism. 'I'm not a capitalist. I'm a moral philosopher.' It's a devastating take-down, not just of the banker, but of the fanaticism which can grow from the selective reading of seminal texts. The moral? Pay closer attention. And Cox is superb – a cross between a bumbling great uncle transported to confusing, unfamiliar times and a raging Logan Roy (his character in TV drama succession) driven to distraction by the incompetence of his protégés. 'You f***** idiot,' he snarls at Goodwin as the banking bubble bursts, sounding exactly like his TV media mogul carpeting one of his disaster-prone offspring. Sensibly, Adam Smith sees the writing on the wall and demands to withdraw his savings. Gordon Brown delivers his verdict on the banker too. He calls him an 'utter b******.' Even the mild-mannered Alistair Darling is only marginally less withering. And, bringing the hubristic tale to grass-roots level, we hear from shareholders. One inquires of Goodwin why his salary is 50 times that of typical staff members when the industry standard is six. She reappears later to remind him that figure has risen to 120. It all climaxes, as we knew it surely would, with Goodwin as the demented captain of a vast sinking ship casting around for the billions required to forestall the certain doom which lay only hours away. We know the rest. The knighthood being wrested from him and – after a struggle – a portion of his pension too. The pariah status that followed and the mea culpa which never truly did. And the Festival Theatre audiences surely know the rest better than most. This is a play about their home town's recent history. Edinburgh is a compact city. Goodwin's 'Pleasure Dome' – the flagship branch in St Andrews Square where he did his showing off to the great and the good – is less than a mile away. Gogarburn, the mini-kingdom he had built a stone's throw from the airport, has passed into city legend: the opulence, the private jet, the ocean going self-indulgence… Most in Edinburgh are well aware, too, that Goodwin lives among them still – not too long a walk, in fact, from where we sat hooting and cringing at his outrageous excesses. 'What about due diligence?' a subordinate asks him at one point in the drama. 'F*** due diligence,' comes the uproarious response which we must assume falls on the 'fiction' side of the fence. Except, of course, it now looks broadly true. An uncomfortable week in prospect, then, for the target of this theatrical spanking. Make It Happen runs in Fred Goodwin's home city until August 9. If the 66-year-old is currently in residence then his ears must be burning. I'm fine with that. I didn't see anyone who wasn't.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
British and Irish Lions fans can expect good cheer at these Scottish venues
As excitement builds for the forthcoming British & Irish Lions Tour, Scotland's pubs are looking forward to packed houses and proving they are always the perfect venue for rugby fans eager to soak in the action with a fantastic atmosphere. Every four years, a British and Irish Lions tour is still seen by many as the peak of professional rugby, with the finest players from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland joining forces. The Lions played in Dublin against Argentina on Friday before travelling to Australia and commencing tour matches on June 28. The tour then runs throughout July, ending with the third and final Test against Australia on August 2. Across the country, pubs are now in full preparation for the events, providing giant screens and a match-day buzz that's second to none. Here are our selection of Scottish venues where you'll receive a warm welcome and plenty of good cheer ... The British & Irish Lions Tour is here and there is no better place to catch all the action than at The Black Bull. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh's iconic Grassmarket, The Black Bull offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere that's hard to beat, boasting eight high‑definition screens and full surround sound so you won't miss a single roar or ruck! Serving up hearty, crowd-pleasing pub classics (think juicy burgers, loaded fries, and crispy wings), it is the perfect place for fuelling up for a great day or night! Don't miss out on their local Cold Town Beer brewed in Edinburgh. You can even pour your own pints at the table with their signature Cold Town Beer Towers. This year's Lions Tour promises not only fierce competition but also legacy moments! No matter who you are cheering on, the sporting atmosphere in The Black Bull is electric—buzzing with passionate fans, big-screen action, and the kind of energy that makes every try, tackle, and triumph feel unforgettable. Booking is not essential, but highly recommended to secure some of the best seats in the house. Booking information: 0131 225 6636 The Queens Arms in Edinburgh is a top-tier venue to catch the 2025 Lions Tour—whether you're a die‑hard fan or just in it for the atmosphere. Nestled just below the cobbles of Frederick Street, this heritage-rich pub combines the charm of a classic Scottish watering hole with five high-definition screens and full coverage of Sky Sports and TNT Sports. With the Lions away matches kicking off at 11am, the team are opening their doors early from 10am to help you get fuelled for the games. Make the most of their brunch menu with their full Scottish, a memorable Bloody Mary and settle in for one of the greatest spectacles in international rugby. Delivering an exceptional pub-dining experience, the menu marries comforting classics and elevated flavours. On Sundays, their famed roast with Yorkshire puddings and oven-roasted seasonal veggies is a well-known highlight! Not forgetting their vast drink selection from Edinburgh local Cold Town Beer, real ales, and over 100 whiskies – there is a dram for everyone. Booking is essential – don't miss your chance to be part of the action. Make sure to mention in your booking notes that you are in for the rugby so we can do our best to get you a table with a great view of the screens. Booking information: 0131 225 1045 At Belushi's, watch the match with delicious burgers, cocktails, wings, draught beers, salads and much, much more. This amazing venue has got a flavour for every occasion and a drink for any vibe, especially major rugby matches. Their menus are specially designed to be perfect for watching the big game, starting a big night out, meeting your mates or anything in between. You can book online 'Secure your Seat' here: Looking for the perfect place to catch every try, tackle, and triumphant moment of the rugby season? Look no further than Walkabout Glasgow – the home of sport in the heart of the city. Whether it's Six Nations, Rugby World Cup, Premiership clashes, or international friendlies, we bring the atmosphere, the screens, and the passion that every rugby fan deserves. At Walkabout Glasgow, we're serious about sport. Our massive HD screens and top-notch surround sound make you feel like you're pitchside, and our electric crowd brings every match to life. We've got an unbeatable selection of drinks, from cold beers to classic cocktails, and a food menu packed with pub favourites – perfect for fuelling your game-day celebrations (or commiserations). Want to book a booth with your mates? We've got comfortable seating, VIP packages, and unbeatable views of the action. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just in it for the banter and atmosphere, Walkabout has you covered. And when the final whistle blows, the party's just getting started. With live DJs, themed nights, and an epic post-match buzz, we're more than just a sports bar – we're your home for the full matchday experience. So if you're in Glasgow and rugby's your game, Walkabout is the only place to be. Join the tribe, wear your colours, and experience every glorious moment with fellow fans who live and breathe the Instagram The Oxgang in Grangemouth has been delighting customers old and new for years -and has recently been renovated. Other facilities now include smaller conference/occasion room, as well as with a much larger events facility to house any proposed occasion. Both including their own private bars, sound systems and projector/screening capabilities - perfect for enjoying the rugby. Located aside the hotel is the family friendly Oxgang restaurant, bringing a warm and homely atmosphere to all. The Oxgang is also thrilled to welcome Swaran Indian Cuisine to its vibrant community, which brings a rich tapestry of flavours and authentic Indian culinary experiences right to the heart of The Oxgang. From the aromatic spices to the traditional cooking techniques, Swaran offers a dining experience that's both unique and deeply rooted in Indian culinary heritage. With being located as central as the Oxgang is, you are only a drive away some of Scotland's most popular landmarks, including , , , along with , and of course . Nestled right on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal, The Canalside is your go-to local for proper pub food, cracking live entertainment, and that cosy, come-as-you-are atmosphere that is perfect for creating a special atmosphere for rugby matches. Whether you're after a quiet pint, a big night out, or just a spot of sunshine in the beer garden, The Canalside has it covered. The wonderful menu is packed with comfort food favourites, pub classics done right, and indulgent desserts that deserve their own fan club. Click for more details This article was brought to you in association with your partners
BBC News
23-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Edinburgh outdoor breakfast plans spark noise concerns
Edinburgh's heritage watchdog has raised concerns after city councillors approved plans for food businesses to serve customers outdoors from 07: businesses can only serve customers at outdoor tables and chairs from 09:00 until 21: a new year-long trial could see outdoor eating and drinking areas open an hour-and-a-half earlier from the start of heritage watchdog the Cockburn Association said the new opening times must be policed by council officials to prevent early morning noise for nearby residents. The rules for the Grassmarket, where businesses can only use outdoor furniture from midday until 21:00, will remain the same. Tony Crolla, chairman of Vittoria Group - which includes Vittoria, Divino, Bertie's and a Taste of Italy - was behind the campaign for the longer operating successfully argued that visitors to the city should be able to sit outside for breakfast when they paid a tourist tax - which starts in summer council report said: "This will allow businesses with permits more flexibility in terms of their operating hours and has the potential to increase footfall and boost the local economy in both the city and town centres." But Terry Levinthal, director of the Cockburn Association, told BBC Scotland News that he had concerns around how the trial would be warned that the noise impact on nearby homes would need to be closely said he wanted the council to add conditions to its licensing which would protect people living in densely populated areas of the Levinthal also raised issue with the "steady creep of commercialisation of public space" which could eventually put people off living in the city centre."Very frequently the people who are making these decisions don't have skin in the game when it comes to that direct impact on residential amenity," he Jenkinson, City of Edinburgh Council's transport and environment convener, said: "This is an example of us listening, acting to support our business community while maintaining robust management."We're also clear that accessibility for pedestrians is a priority, with strict conditions to maintain appropriate widths for pedestrian access."We'll continually monitor the scheme and address any concerns regarding noise, compliance or any other issues with businesses and other key stakeholders as appropriate."
