Latest news with #KennethDuffy
Daily Record
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
North Lanarkshire based choir celebrates 15th birthday in spectacular style
SoundSational, one of Scotland's most successful community choirs, recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a jubilant birthday party that brought together current choir members and past choir members. A North Lanarkshire based choir has celebrated its 15th birthday in style. SoundSational, one of Scotland's most successful community choirs, recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a jubilant birthday party that brought together current choir members and past choir members. Notable guests included North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy and Central Scotland Labour list MSP Monica Lennon, who joined in the festivities to honour this remarkable achievement. Founder and Musical Director Tommy Chambers shared an inspiring overview of the choir's highlights over the past 15 years. Among the many accomplishments, SoundSational has opened its own choir centre in Motherwell, released four albums, and made history as the first act to perform at the opening of the OVO Hydro. The choir has collaborated with renowned artists such as Amy Macdonald and Hugh Jackman, showcasing their talent on both national and international stages. In addition to their musical achievements, SoundSational has been recognised for its positive impact on the community, winning Scotland's inaugural Community Impact Choir of the Year award and being named Community Organisation of the Year at the Lanarkshire Business Awards. The choir has also dedicated itself to delivering music and mental health workshops in schools, hospitals, and hospices, generously fundraising for countless charities along the way. Reflecting on the journey, Tommy said: 'What a journey it has been so far, and we're growing stronger every year! It was quite emotional to see so many previous choir members, who played an integral part in our success, return to share the stage. 'I'm so proud that we have stuck to our ethos of being a true community choir with no audition, being multigenerational and open to everyone. I can't thank our team enough for their hard work over the last 15 years, making each and every event a success.' Provost Kenneth Duffy added: 'I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to SoundSational on reaching this incredible 15-year milestone. 'Their dedication to fostering community spirit through music has made a positive impact on our region, uniting generations and enriching lives along the way. I am proud to see their continued success and look forward to many more years of harmony and community celebration.' For those eager to experience the magic of SoundSational, the choir will be hosting its 15th anniversary concert, featuring the talents of the remarkable Michelle McManus, at Hamilton Town House on September 5. 'SoundSational has been making Scotland proud for 15 years,' said Monica Lennon. 'This significant milestone is a moment to celebrate and reflect on their amazing achievements. SoundSational is the essence of community, raising over £500,000 for charity and promoting mental health. 'Above all they are the best choir you will ever hear. I love them and can't wait to welcome them to Holyrood to make their debut performance in the Scottish Parliament later this year.' If you fancying singing with SoundSational then get in touch at enquiries@ And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Family fun zone confirmed for North Lanarkshire Half Marathon
While participants are pounding the pavement, families can enjoy a wide array of free activities designed to entertain and engage. From soft play areas and bouncy castles to lively games and interactive activities. North Lanarkshire is gearing up for an exciting day of community celebration and athletic achievement as the inaugural North Lanarkshire Half Marathon. The event takes place on Sunday, August 24, at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility. To ensure this event is a fun-filled day for all ages, a vibrant family fun zone will be set up to provide entertainment for children and families alike, making it a perfect day out for the whole community. While participants are pounding the pavement, families can enjoy a wide array of free activities designed to entertain and engage. From soft play areas and bouncy castles to lively games and interactive activities. North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy expressed his enthusiasm for the event. He said: 'I am delighted to see the launch of the Family Fun Zone as part of the North Lanarkshire Half Marathon weekend. It's a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a day of fun and activity at Ravenscraig. 'I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, Albert Bartlett, whose support has been instrumental in making this event possible. We look forward to welcoming families from across the region to enjoy what promises to be a fantastic day.' The Family Fun Zone is free to attend, and visitors can secure their tickets in advance by visiting The zone will be open throughout the event, providing a safe and welcoming environment for children to play, explore, and connect with others. Local businesses and community groups are also coming together to support the event, offering food stalls, music, and entertainment to enhance the festive environment. The event is expected to draw visitors from across the region and beyond. It offers something for everyone - from seasoned runners to first-timers - with a friendly community vibe and exciting race options. There are distances to suit all abilities with the route literally running through the heart of North Lanarkshire. Alongside the North Lanarkshire Half-Marathon, the event will feature a 5K, 1K, 400m and a Toddler Dash, making it a truly inclusive experience for the whole community. Councillor Geraldine Woods, convener of communities, welcomed the new event, saying: 'This is a fantastic addition to North Lanarkshire's sporting calendar. 'We want to encourage people of all abilities to get involved, whether they're experienced runners or just looking for a fun way to be active. 'The mix of race options and family activities makes this a brilliant event for the whole community.' Runners can still enter the half marathon by logging onto *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here. And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Daily Record
10-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
New bike and scooter workshop opens in the heart of Wishaw
The repair centre is based in the old Heathery Bar building and it's the latest initiative in the area from local community group Socialtrack. A new bike and scooter workshop has opened in the heart of Wishaw. The repair centre is based in the old Heathery Bar building, close to University Hospital Wishaw. And it's the latest initiative in the area from local community group Socialtrack. The facility offers free repairs for the community and is already proving to be a valued local resource. As well as repairs, the new workshop also provides training and employment opportunities for young people aged 16 to 21 through the National Lottery-funded Young Start programme. Dan Scott managing director of Socialtrack, said: 'We deliver maintenance classes for the wider community, along with wellbeing sessions supported by NHS Lanarkshire and Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire (VANL), promoting both mental and physical health.' During his visit, North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy was told about exciting plans for a world-class wheeled sports park in Wishaw. Dan added: 'The park will cater to everyone—from beginners to experienced riders—and will be free to use. 'Although we're still in the planning stages, the project has already received strong support from local schools and residents across Wishaw and North Lanarkshire.' Opening the new facility, Provost Duffy said: 'This is a fantastic initiative that brings real benefits to the community—supporting young people, promoting active lifestyles, and creating a welcoming space for everyone. 'I want to congratulate everyone involved for their hard work and enthusiasm in making this happen.' *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Daily Record
25-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Eighteen youths with learning disabilities graduate from this year's Project SEARCH programme
Since starting in 2010, almost 300 youngsters have taken part in Project SEARCH in Lanarkshire, gaining valuable skills and work experience to help them find jobs. Eighteen young people with learning disabilities have graduated from this year's Project SEARCH programme - marking 15 years since the initiative began in Lanarkshire. Since starting in 2010, almost 300 youngsters have taken part in Project SEARCH in Lanarkshire, gaining valuable skills and work experience to help them find jobs. The programme started at University Hospital Wishaw and later expanded to university hospitals Monklands and Hairmyres. It is delivered in partnership by NHS Lanarkshire, New College Lanarkshire, North and South Lanarkshire councils, Serco and ISS. Martin Hill, chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: "This event is always a highlight of the year for NHS Lanarkshire - and for good reason. "It's a chance to celebrate the hard work of our students and the difference that real opportunities and strong partnerships can make. "Some of this year's graduates are already moving into work, including jobs with NHS Lanarkshire. "That's something we're really proud of. It shows how we're helping create real career paths for people in our communities." During the programme, each student completes two or three work placements in hospital departments, learning new skills and building confidence., with many going on to find jobs and live more independently. North Lanarkshire Council Provost Kenneth Duffy said: "I was delighted to be part of Project SEARCH's graduation. "The event recognises the learning achievements and skills development of young people with a view to them securing and retaining employment. "It was great to hear first-hand the students' experiences and their plans for the future. "Key to the project's success is the strong partnership working in place between the organisations involved who continue to support young adults increasing their employability, confidence and chance of securing employment in the general job market. "Congratulations to everyone involved." And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Daily Record
24-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
North Lanarkshire marks Armed Forces Day 2025 with ceremonial flag-raising at council headquarters
Event saw Provost Kenneth Duffy joined by local veterans, elected members, Depute Provost Bob Burgess and Colonel Ted Shields MBE, Depute Lord Lieutenant. North Lanarkshire paid tribute to the armed forces community ahead of Armed Forces Day 2025 with a ceremonial flag-raising at council headquarters in Motherwell. The event saw Provost Kenneth Duffy joined by local veterans, elected members, Depute Provost Bob Burgess and Colonel Ted Shields MBE, Depute Lord Lieutenant, as the official Armed Forces Day flag was raised in recognition of service personnel past and present. Speaking at the event, Provost Duffy said: "It's a privilege to stand alongside veterans and community leaders to show our gratitude for the dedication and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. "North Lanarkshire has a proud military tradition, and Armed Forces Day is a chance for us all to reflect on the bravery and commitment of those who serve - and those who have served - both here and abroad." The ceremony is part of a wider campaign across the UK to honour the Armed Forces community, which includes serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and military families. Armed Forces Day will take place nationally this Saturday, June 28, and while the occasion is not a charitable event, many local celebrations provide opportunities to support military charities. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here. And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
