Latest news with #Kirsteen
Daily Record
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Brian Rice talks 'genius' Brian Clough, shutting up the Livingston snipers and his wife's scouting role
Lions coach is loving life at Livi - and reveals his secret comrade when it comes to midweek scouting sessions Brian Rice jets off to Italy on his honeymoon this afternoon having helped navigate Livingston back in among the high fliers of Scottish football. After a frenetic season culminated in a dramatic play-off win over Ross County it's chill out time with wife Kirsteen. A chance to indulge in the finer things in life, to relax on the Adriatic coast's beautiful white beaches and to marvel at Rimini's stunning scenery. Inevitably though, the conversation will still turn to football. It's what brought the couple together. A match made in heaven? Alloa to be exact. And, for Rice, it's perfect. 'We're away on Sunday,' he says with a broad smile. 'Rimini for 12 nights, it's chill out time. 'We've been together three years, got married a few months back in front of five people. Kenny Brannigan was my best man. 'Alloa brought us together. We met when I was managing there. Kirsteen was helping out with the food. 'She loves football. She's been at every single game this season. 'She goes to all the mid-week games with me as well. Scouting trips and everything. She loves it. She knows what she's talking about. 'So it's off to Italy now. I've been before .. but only to play football.' Of course it was to play football. It's the perfect link into the story of a man who left school to join Hibs as a YTS and could never have dreamed of where the journey would take him. The new Mrs Rice isn't the first great partnership he's made in the game. Right now he's part of a trio of footballing brains who have guided Livi back to the big time as well as lifting the SPFL Trust Trophy alongside David Martindale and Neil Hastings. His years as John Hughes' sidekick at Falkirk, Hibs and Inverness are legendary. And long before then he was the big slip of a playmaker known simply as 'Scotsman' to one of football's most charismatic and successful bosses. Brian Clough. One word to describe each of those managers? Rice thinks hard: 'Clough: Genius. Davie: Under-rated. Yogi…Perfectionist. 'But all three of them: passionate.' He's 61 now but Rice is as full of enthusiasm for the game as the youngster that left HIbs to sign for Forest in 1985 at just 21. Before packing for his honeymoon, he sat down with Mail Sport this week to reflect on it all. He said: 'That last trip to Italy was with Nottingham Forest when we went to play a summer tournament in Perugia. 'We played against Perugia, Cologne and Roma and some fantastic players. Rudi Voller, Junior, the Brazilian, Pierre Littbarski. 'But we won. The manager never liked to lose even in pre-season. 'As a person, Brian Clough shaped me. His discipline, the way he treated people, the respect he had for people. Massive family man. 'Wanted us to be big family men as well. He was big on that, big on being a team. 'He didn't like individual players.. apart from John Robertson. He could do anything he wanted he was so good. 'Coaching? There was no coaching! We did the same training every single day for six years. 'People don't believe me. We never played 11 v 11, no set plays or shape, no defensive drills, or attacking drills, we never used big goals. 'We just warmed up, into two teams, played seven and eight a side trying to score into hockey goals, everything below head height, kicking hell out of one another. 'Players like Stuart Pearce, Neil Webb, Garry Birtles, Johnny Method, John Robertson, Roy Keane, Steve Hodge! 'Clough's secret? Play your position and get good players. Him and Peter Taylor identified players, fitted into how they wanted to play, it was simple. 'You'd never get away with it now. I see so many robots now, coaches as robots: 'Do this and this'. Football is about using your brain and how quick is your decision compared to your opponent's. 'What we did was simple but effective. There were certain rules. Don't pass back if you don't have to - and cross to the front post. 'One Saturday I hit about three crosses to the back post in the first half. The gaffer never missed me at half time. 'Second half, my first cross was overhit to the back post again. The boards went up, 'Scotsman, off!' 'The next game he started me against Aston Villa as a striker. 'I'd never played there in my life. I was against Paul McGrath and Derek Mountfield, two giants who kicked the hell out of me. 'We won 1-0 but I never touched the ball 'We came off the pitch, went up the stairs into the dressing room. I walked through the door and he was lying in the bath already with a bottle of beer! 'He said: 'well Scotsman, did you learn anything tonight?' 'I went, 'aye, gaffer, f*****g cross to that front post!' 'He was brilliant. I grew up watching Brian Clough on a Wednesday night. Sports Night. Sitting with my gran. He was TV gold. 'A few years later I'm signing for him. Archie Gemmill picked me up in the morning. He took me into the office and said, 'I've got the Scotsman'. 'The gaffer was writing something so his head was down. My heart was pounding. 'In those days my red hair had a side shed. He just looked up and went 'f**k me it's Steve Davis'. 'We just had a brilliant relationship.' The best part of four decades later Rice is now that wise old head passing on his wisdom from a life spent in football. If there's one word to describe him, it's knowledgable. Rice reckons 'lazy' critics don't have a clue when they take aim at Livingston's brand of football. And the Lions coach insists David Martindale has rammed their jibes back down their throats after guiding the club back to the Premiership after a summer rethink. He said: 'It's lazy people. You get tarnished. 'But that's people that don't get off their backsides and go and watch. Don't do their research. 'We were very much under the radar this year. Falkirk had such a good season, such a good team, attacking team. 'Rightly so, they were getting all the positives. Everybody was raving about them. They won the league because they were the best team. 'But we were very, very close. 'I can't really remember three games that we just played long. We tried to play all the time. 'I've seen all the things on social media. I just sit and laugh. 'These people haven't got a clue. They don't go and watch the game. 'Go and ask any other manager in the Championship about Livingston's style of play.' Rice reckons Martindale will look back on this season with a huge sense of pride. He said: 'I'd think this season means more than anything else he's achieved with Livingston. 'He changed the full style because the Championship allows you to do that. 'We had a look at it and the gaffer decided that he wanted to play a possession-based game where we could dominate the ball. The Premiership doesn't allow you to do that every week. 'In the Championship, you can coach to win every single week. You know you've got a chance of winning every week. 'Davie will look back at this with great pride, his own work and the way the boys adapted to the system. 'Everything changed, the way we trained. And I think it needed that. 'He's good at identifying things and seeing what needs to be changed.' Livi roared back from 3-1 down on aggregate to beat Ross County 5-3 in Dingwall on Monday night. And Rice said: 'At first it was relief. Then it was enjoyment, coming back on the bus and waking up the next day and taking the dog out, people stopping me in the street.. it's a wee bit bigger than I thought.' While Rice and Martindale bask in the glow of a promotion and cup winning campaign, his former colleague Hughes remains out of the game. Yogi hasn't managed since leaving Dunfermline three years ago. And Rice reckons that's a massive waste of talent. He said: 'Taking Brendan Rodgers out the equation, tell me anyone else in Scotland with the CV Yogi has got. HIs CV stands up to anybody. 'He got Falkirk into the Premier League. Kept them there. Got to the 2009 Scottish Cup final and into Europe. 'He brought players through. Got players in from the Premier League on loan, Kasper Schmeichel, Tim Krul, Anthony Stokes. 'He then won the Scottish Cup with Inverness. 'Yogi's enthusiasm is incredible. People just look at him as this big centre half but they have not go an idea about his football knowledge. How he sees the game, how he wants it played. 'He took a lot of his ideas from Tommy Burns at Celtic. He'd written down sessions Tommy had put on. 'He demands perfection and doesn't accept short cuts. He knows the dangers of short cuts. 'I cannot understand how someone with his CV hasn't got a job.'
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Visit to training centre in Bathgate provides insight into skills required by HGV drivers
Kirsteen Sullivan MP stepped into a heavy goods vehicle simulator Kirsteen Sullivan MP stepped into a heavy goods vehicle simulator during a visit to the Road Haulage Association's (RHA) training centre in Bathgate. The Labour MP for Bathgate and Linlithgow was keen to learn more about the work being done to support the industry in Scotland and heard directly from those working to future-proof the sector. As part of the visit, she entered the RHA's state-of-the-art HGV simulator, giving her first-hand insight into the high standards drivers are trained to meet. The simulator experience highlighted the skills and focus required to operate safely and efficiently on Scotland's roads. Kirsteen also joined RHA Training Director Brian Kenny and Martin Reid for a wide-ranging and productive discussion on the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector, including: Tackling the Skills Shortage – Exploring ways to address the growing demand for qualified drivers through enhanced training and recruitment efforts. Attracting New Talent into Logistics – Discussing how to promote the industry to younger people and career changers, with a focus on the long-term sustainability of the workforce. Removing Barriers to Entry – Emphasising the importance of improved rest and washing facilities, particularly to support and encourage more women into the profession. The Urgent Need for Safe and Secure Parking – Highlighting the critical need for investment in safe, well-maintained parking infrastructure to protect driver welfare and safety. RHA Training Director Brian Kenny said: 'Our hub here in Bathgate plays an important part in Scotland's haulage industry. 'It is a real success story and has grown positively over the past 10 years, equipping drivers with the skills they need to help keep the wheels of the economy turning, locally and nationally. 'It was great to meet Kirsteen, to show her the valuable work that takes place in the region, as well as talk through with her some of the issues faced by Scotland's haulage industry.' Kirsteen Sullivan MP added: 'It was a pleasure to visit the RHA training centre in Bathgate and see first-hand the excellent work being done to support Scotland's haulage sector. "The discussions I had with the team highlighted both the progress made and the challenges that remain. I am committed to advocating for the necessary investments and policy changes to ensure the industry continues to thrive.'
Daily Record
23-05-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Staff and volunteers at Motherwell's PDSA shop urging locals to donate their unwanted items
The shop is desperate for good quality donations including kid's games, ornaments and jewellery as well as men's and ladies clothes, shoes and accessories. Staff and volunteers at Motherwell's PDSA shop are urging locals to donate their unwanted items or time to help sick and injured pets The shop is desperate for good quality donations including kid's games, ornaments and jewellery as well as men's and ladies clothes, shoes and accessories. PDSA Shop Assistant Manager, Kirsteen Reynolds said: 'Perhaps your wardrobe is bulging with unworn clothes or your shelves are full of books you never read? Why not have a clear-out and donate your unwanted items to PDSA? As well as de-cluttering your home, you'll be helping a very worthy cause at the same time. Kirsteen is also appealing for local people to lend a hand and volunteer at the shop. Download the Lanarkshire Live app today She added: 'We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers who are passionate about pets and who can lend a hand. 'Volunteering for PDSA is fun and the skills you learn look great on any CV, plus you get to meet new people and make some friends along the way. No previous retail experience is needed, as full training is provided for all new volunteers. So, if you would like to help sick and injured pets, why not join our friendly volunteer team.' For more details about volunteering for PDSA, please visit Located at Brandon Parade South, the Motherwell PDSA shop raises vital funds to provide free and low cost vet care for those who struggle to pay treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. PDSA encourages all supporters to sign up for Gift Aid* if they are a UK tax payer, to help their donations go even further. Gift Aid allows PDSA to claim an additional 25 per cent of the value of each item sold. For more information about Motherwell PDSA shop, please contact Kirsteen on 01698 262279.
Daily Record
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Bathgate and Linlithgow MP sounds horn to start Race for Life event at South Queensferry
Kirsteen Sullivan MP was chosen to sound the horn at the start line to send hundreds off on the 3k, 5k and 10k courses in the picturesque grounds of Hopetoun House. People of all ages united against cancer by taking part in Scotland's first 2025 Race for Life events. Kirsteen Sullivan, MP for Bathgate and Linlithgow, was chosen to sound the horn at the start line to send hundreds off on the 3k, 5k and 10k courses in the picturesque grounds of Hopetoun House, South Queensferry. More than £108,000 was raised for Cancer Research UK- vital funds which will enable scientists to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer- to bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer. And 30 miles away, in the University of Stirling grounds near Gannochy Sports Centre £95,000 was raised on Sunday at Race for Life Stirling. Kirsteen said: 'It's a privilege to support Race for Life in honour of everyone going through cancer right now. 'Almost every family, including my own, has been affected by cancer. The outlook for people with cancer has changed dramatically over the years, thanks to the efforts of Cancer Research UK and wonderful fundraisers making sure the best research is available to help get the best outcomes. 'Thankfully, there are many more effective treatments out there today, making it possible for people to live well with cancer for many years. But it's important we continue to make progress and to ensure the research is there to support that.' The Rock Choir from Livingston, Linlithgow and Edinburgh also performed hits including Green Green Grass by George Ezra and Club Tropicana by Wham. Brothers eight-year-old Quinn Duffy and Leo Duffy, 10, who are both members of Linlithgow Athletics Club were first home in the 3k completing the course in 12 mins 40 seconds. And 13-year-old Orla Oakley, of Livingston Athletics Club was first home in the 5k in 23 minutes 22 seconds, raising £230 for Cancer Research UK helped by her twin sister Isla Oakley, her brother Ruaridh Oakley, 10, and her mum Catherine Oakley, 45. The family took part in honour of an uncle who currently has cancer. Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK's spokesperson in Scotland, said: 'We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in Race for Life. 'No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for. 'Sadly nearly one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime but all of us can support the research that will beat it. We're proud that Race for Life has had such a positive impact. 'Every pound raised supports our life-saving work, which has helped double cancer survival in the UK over the last 50 years. 'It was a fantastic day at Race for Life, full of emotion, courage, tears, laughter and hope as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease. 'Now we're asking everyone who took part to return the money they're raised as soon as possible. Every donation, every pound raised will make a real difference. '
Daily Record
30-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Bathgate and Linlithgow MP commits to speaking up for MS community in parliament
Bathgate and Linlithgow MP Kirsteen Sullivan has committed to speaking up for the MS community in the UK Parliament. Kirsteen attended a Parliamentary event hosted by the MS Society, to learn about issues facing the multiple sclerosis (MS) community as part of MS Awareness Week which runs from April 28 to May 4. The event – which followed the government's recently announced plans to change disability benefits – saw MPs from across the political spectrum meet with people affected by MS. They were also joined by familiar faces including comedian Ivo Graham, legendary R&B artist Junior Giscombe and former Lioness captain Mary Phillip. Kirsteen said: 'I'm proud to join the MS Society in speaking up for the MS community. Working in collaboration with the charity, I look forward to drawing attention to the challenges that people with MS face and calling for change.' Dr Sarah Rawlings, Executive Director of Research and External Affairs at the MS Society, added: 'We're so glad that Kirsteen joined us in Parliament today to learn more about the reality of living with MS. The condition can be debilitating, exhausting and unpredictable, and almost half of those affected rely on PIP to help maintain their independence. 'So it's vital we work closely with MPs from across Parliament to highlight issues like access to effective treatments, disability benefits and the impact of the government's welfare changes. 'We look forward to working with Kirsteen to raise these topics in Parliament, and champion the voices of the MS community. With her help, we can bring MS to the forefront of political conversations and make real change.' Over 150,000 people live with MS in the UK, including 17,406 in Scotland. The condition affects the brain and spinal cord, impacting how people move, think and feel. Symptoms are different for everybody and often invisible. But once diagnosed, MS stays with you for life, and over time your symptoms can get worse. Many people with MS rely on disability benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to help manage the extra costs of their condition.
