Latest news with #JimMcDonald
Daily Record
21-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
New innovation centre could create 300 jobs in Renfrewshire
Plans have been announced to create a national hub for the development of advanced semiconductor packaging. More than 300 high-tech jobs could be created in Renfrewshire thanks to a promised £29 million investment in green technology. The money – put up by the UK Government as part of its investment in Glasgow City Region Innovation Zone projects – will accelerate semiconductor packaging innovation at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS). It will fund a national hub for the development of advanced semiconductor packaging – a component needed for the manufacturing of next generation technologies from AI to computing and photonics. In a first for Europe, the new facility – dubbed the National Advanced Semiconductor Packaging and Integration Centre (NASPIC) – will enable faster development of semiconductor devices, reducing packaging lead times from months to days. It will also reduce the UK's reliance on importing conductors from overseas. The new centre will form part of the University of Strathclyde's Advanced Net Zero Innovation Centre based at the NMIS site in Inchinnan. It is expected to create 300 new jobs and unlock an estimated £800m in additional revenue for UK and international businesses. Professor Matt Boyle, director of electrification at NMIS, said: 'We are building a world-class capability here in Renfrewshire, positioning the region at the forefront of advanced semiconductor development. 'Our ambition is to serve the global market for semiconductor packaging. As part of this, we also intend to develop skills programmes that will fuel the sector's expansion both locally and nationally. 'This latest funding boost underlines NMIS's commitment to becoming a world-leading centre for advanced manufacturing in these critical technologies. 'NASPIC will support companies looking to bring manufacturing in-house and reduce their reliance on overseas supply chains. There is no other facility in the UK that offers the level of support and access to technology we are planning. 'This new national resource will be key to enhancing the UK's position in a growing global market, nurturing businesses and enabling them to scale. 'This is a very exciting moment. Scotland has long been at the forefront of semiconductor innovation. 'Now, with fresh momentum and investment, we have the opportunity to put Scotland back on the global map for advanced packaging, underpinned by targeted skills development.' Professor Sir Jim McDonald, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Strathclyde and chair of the NMIS board, added: 'This is a strategically important capability for the UK, enhancing our competitiveness, strengthening supply chains, and opening up new opportunities in high-growth sectors such as AI, quantum, and photonics. 'Through NMIS and our close collaboration with government and industry, we are helping to build the skills, infrastructure, and expertise required to secure the UK's future as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.'
Glasgow Times
15-06-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Princess Royal visits Strathclyde for research showcase
The event, hosted by Medical Research Scotland at the University of Strathclyde's Technology Innovation Centre, aimed to inspire future scientists. It welcomed more than 200 pupils and teachers from Scottish schools. Read more: Commuters warned of disruption on Glasgow train line Have you seen him? Urgent search for man missing from Glasgow hospital Mack rebuild 'at risk' from 02 ABC plan says Glasgow School of Art The showcase introduced students from Senior 4 to 6 to the world of medical research outside the classroom. It featured career talks, interactive science activities, and scientific poster presentations. Her Royal Highness met Professor Heather Wallace, chair of Medical Research Scotland, Professor Sir Jim McDonald, principal and vice-chancellor at the University of Strathclyde, and Alasdair Gill, Medical Research Scotland trustee and chair of the audit and investment committee. She also engaged with researchers like Dr Samantha Pitt and Dr Keith Goatman, who gave talks on medical research careers. The Princess Royal's presence highlighted the importance of medical research and the promising future for those in the field. The event featured Medical Research Scotland-funded researchers, including PhD students, Vacation Scholars, and Daphne Jackson Fellows. It allowed pupils to explore the latest work in the field and understand the real-world impact of medical research. Professor Wallace said: "Today's event is about opening doors for the school pupils attending - helping them see that a career in medical science is exciting and deeply rewarding. "It was an honour to welcome Her Royal Highness to this event, and her presence undoubtedly added inspiration and significance for everyone involved.' Claire Currie, a teacher at Paisley Grammar School, said: 'Events like this are invaluable. "They provide students with the chance to meet real scientists, ask questions, and see the real-world applications of what they're learning in school." Medical Research Scotland is Scotland's largest independent medical research charity, supporting the next generation of medical researchers.
Glasgow Times
07-06-2025
- Science
- Glasgow Times
Sir Jim McDonald awarded Glasgow's prestigious Loving Cup
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, was awarded the city's prestigious Loving Cup. The Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren, presented the award to Sir Jim for his "extraordinary contributions to education and learning, engineering and civic leadership," both in Glasgow and beyond. Read more: New speed camera to become operational on busy road next week Man brought Poundland knife to Glasgow court Scots are being offered physical 'rain cheques' to help keep their spirits up The Loving Cup is one of the highest accolades given by the city, bestowed upon individuals or organisations who have brought distinction and honour to Glasgow. Sir Jim joins other celebrated recipients, including the Princess Royal, the Lisbon Lions, the Archbishop of Glasgow, and Francie and Josie. He said: "I am very touched and deeply honoured to receive the Loving Cup and to be recognised by the city that has shaped so much of my life and career. "Glasgow has always been at the heart of my personal and professional journey, and to have played a role in its educational, engineering and civic landscape has been a profound privilege." The ceremony was held at the City Chambers on June 5 with civic leaders, academic colleagues, community representatives, and his family. The Lord Provost said: "Sir Jim is a true son of Glasgow whose leadership, innovation, and dedication have left an indelible mark on our city. "His commitment to education, engineering excellence, and civic engagement makes him a most deserving recipient of the Loving Cup. 'His legacy, following his imminent retirement in August, is to leave the University of Strathclyde in a stellar position both here and abroad, with an excellent reputation for technology and innovation.' A proud Glaswegian and three-time graduate of Strathclyde, Sir Jim began his career in the UK electricity supply industry before returning to the university in 1984. Under his leadership from 2009, Strathclyde grew into a global leader in technological education and innovation. He was knighted in 2012 for services to education, engineering, and the economy, and was appointed Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 2024.
The Sun
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Coronation Street legend sparks concern days after hospital dash, saying ‘I'm in mad pain'
CORONATION Street legend Charlie Lawson has given fans an update after being rushed to hospital earlier this month following two falls. The soap favourite, 65, revealed he's back at his Cheshire home with wife Debbie and dog Seamus but is still suffering from "mad sciatic pain". 5 He shared a video on X and wrote: "Well, back home! I'm in the exact same pain and state of immobility as I went in 10 days ago!!!" Charlie was relieved to find he doesn't have cauda equina syndrome - compression at the lower end of the spine that can cause permanent damage with life-changing consequences. He said: "I don't mind telling you I'm fed up, I haven't been able to walk Seamus as you can see and it's starting to get to me being an outside tough character. "I can't stand this sitting indoors and having to rest all the time with mad sciatic pain and all the rest of it but I'm home, the sun's out and I'm with my darling Debbie so I'll see you soon. Cheerio now." The Jim McDonald actor underwent an MRI and various tests during his hospital visit. In a video, Charlie explained his predicament, saying: "Hi folks, went to physio this morning and she sent me straight to A&E, which I did. "They examined me. I have an MRI scan and I'm sitting waiting for the results. "They've whisked me back in for more examinations so it's not going awfully well at the moment. "Anyway, I'll keep you updated. "They put a wristband on me and all sorts of craic. I've fallen over twice, so something going wrong down there." The well-wishes are still coming in for Charlie, with one sympathetic fan writing: "Awww Charlie, thanks for updating us. I've been thinking about you. Hope you get some answers and get back to full health soon. Such a worry. Look after yourself and love to Debbie xx." Another said: "I hope they sort something soon Charlie. Chronic pain is a horrendous thing to live with until it is controlled." A third said: "Can see it in your eyes. I hope you get it sorted. It's awful. Please look at decompression of the spine. It helped my husband immensely. Wishing you so much luck get well." Charlie joined Coronation Street in 1989 immediately grabbing attention as Jim, the patriarch of the McDonald family. He was on the soap for eleven years before he quit the role. In his 2024 memoir, Charlie recalled "hating every minute" of working on the set, prior to his exit in 2000. The actor went into detail about how he had wanted to leave the soap a year before he finally did. He wrote: "For months now, I have been going through the motions of turning up and doing Jim McDonald, and hating every moment of it and believe it or not, on more than one occasion seriously considering taking the lift to the fourth floor, walking into Jane Macnaught's office, our Christmas producer, and telling her to shove it up their a***s. "The biggest mistake was that I did not take this action." Despite his grievances, Charlie has reprised the role of Jim on multiple occasions over the years, with the last time being in 2018. 5 5
Daily Mail
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Coronation Street's Charlie Lawson, 64, reveals something has 'gone seriously wrong' after he was rushed to hospital
Coronation Street 's Charlie Lawson has revealed something has 'gone seriously wrong' with his health after he was rushed to hospital this week. The actor, 65, who is best known for his role as Jim McDonald - took to social media to reveal that he was struggling to walk after he fell over twice. He confessed he was in 'great pain' and can no long stand on his tip toes. Speaking in a video posted to X, he said: 'Well hello folks, from a rather, erm, well I'm not sure what it's doing outside to be honest with you. 'It was rather nice when I came in, but here I am again in special day care in Macclesfield hospital waiting to see an osteopath and hopefully getting a transfer to Salford Royal to the spinal unit. 'That's the plan, but I was talking to you last time from the same cubicle and I ended up back at home at half ten at night so we shall wait and see. Encore une fois!!! — Charlie Lawson (@charlie_lawson1) May 8, 2025 'I'm fine, I just simply can't walk properly. I'm in great pain, and I can't stand on my tiptoes now so this is very comfortable [in the bed] but if I stand up I just fall over so there's something seriously gone wrong. So, I'll keep you posted. Cheerio now!' Alongside the clip, he penned 'Encore une fois!!!' which is French for 'once again, one more time'. The soap legend previously told fans that he had undergone an MRI scan and was waiting to hear back from a spinal surgeon after seeking medical attention the first time round. First revealing his health problems on Wednesday, Charlie took to the social media platform to announce he was sent to the hospital after a physio therapy appointment. He said: 'Hi folks, went to physio this morning and she sent me straight to A&E, which I did. They examined me. I have an MRI scan and I'm sitting waiting for the results. 'They've whisked me back in for more examinations so it's not going awfully well at the moment. Anyway, I'll keep you updated. They put a wristband on me and all sorts of craic. I've fallen over twice, so something going wrong down there.' Charlie - who married his long-time love Debbie Stanley in 2023 - also told one concerned fan that he was waiting to hear from the spinal surgeon. He wrote: 'Thanks darling, awaiting the opinion of the spinal surgeon. Xxx (sic)' First revealing his accident on Wednesday, Charlie took to the social media platform to announce he was sent to the hospital after a physio therapy appointment Last year, Charlie admitted he doesn't ever envisage being invited back to 'Corrie' to reprise his role as Jim, who he last portrayed in 2018. He told the Daily Mirror newspaper at the time: 'It wouldn't shock me if he dies in Australia. I think it would be a terrible waste of a character, and I would stand up and have a pint and salute to him. 'But I wouldn't be broken-hearted because I've been back seven or eight times, for Christ's sake, since 2001 that's pretty damn good as it's 2024. 'Now I haven't been back since 2018 but the whole world has changed since then into a crazy woke sort of... it's all changed. 'I'm not quite sure how Jim would react to 24 genders in Weatherfield. I suspect he would probably - if the writers had the courage - I suspect he would probably say that that was nonsense.' Jim was famously married to former Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald (Beverley Callard), but their relationship was tested by alcoholism and infidelity. They divorced in 1997 after Liz had been unfaithful to him, and they remarried in 2000, but Jim was later imprisoned for the manslaughter of drug dealer Jez Quigley (Lee Boardman), who had previously beaten his son Steve (Simon Gregson) up over a job. Liz divorced Jim for a second time during his prison sentence, and in 2011 he tried to win her back by robbing a bank. But he was put behind bars again. In 2018, Jim returned to the series with a young woman called Hannah Gilmore (Hannah Ellis Ryan), whom he falsely claimed was his and Liz's long-lost daughter Katie. However, Hannah was actually Jim's girlfriend, and the pair were later arrested for a money-making scam when the truth emerged.
