Latest news with #MonicaLennon
Daily Record
5 days ago
- 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
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
Lanarkshire MSP recognised for dedication to protecting Scotland's environment
Labour's Central Scotland list MSP Monica Lennon's award was 'in recognition of a MSP who has developed a personal connection with a species or habitat through her Nature Champions role'. A Lanarkshire MSP was recognised by Scottish Environment LINK for her dedication to protecting Scotland's natural environment, as part of a celebration of MSP Nature Champions, held in the Scottish Parliament. The reception recognised the efforts of MSPs currently signed up as Nature Champions and celebrated the different ways in which they have championed Scotland's iconic and threatened species and habitats over the current Parliament. Labour's Central Scotland list MSP Monica Lennon's award was 'in recognition of a MSP who has developed a personal connection with a species or habitat through her Nature Champions role'. In addition to her hands‑on advocacy, Monica has recently championed legislation that could dramatically reshape environmental protection in Scotland - the Ecocide (Scotland) Bill. Introduced into Parliament in May, this proposed Members' Bill would make 'ecocide' - severe environmental harm that is widespread, long‑term or irreversible - a new criminal offence in Scots law. Monica said: 'It is a privilege to receive this recognition from Scottish Environment LINK. 'Nature means a lot to me, and I've loved being part of the Nature Champions programme. Whether it's speaking up for Scotland's wildlife or pushing for stronger laws like the Ecocide Bill, I just want to do my bit to protect the places and species we all care about - now and for the future. 'Big thanks to everyone involved in this brilliant initiative. It's great to be part of a team that's so passionate about looking after our natural world.'
Times
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Times
Monica Lennon fights for a seat in Holyrood election
An MSP lauded by Vogue as one of the most influential women in the world is fighting for her political future in Scotland. Five years ago Labour's Monica Lennon was ranked tenth on the magazine's list of women who had changed the world thanks to her pioneering work delivering free period products. Now it is not clear whether the politician can even win her party's backing to stand in a winnable seat. Lennon, the Central Scotland-list MSP, has been out of favour with the Scottish Labour hierarchy since standing against Anas Sarwar in the 2021 leadership contest. She has languished on the back benches since she stood down as a spokeswoman shortly after her defeat. She is seeking the nomination for a Lanarkshire constituency. Announcing her challenge for the twinned seats of Rutherglen & Cambuslang, and Cumbernauld & Kilsyth, Lennon gave her backing to the Labour leader.
Daily Record
03-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Hamilton charity Covey highlights work at celebration
Covey provides befriending, mentoring and family support, and has recently received a prestigious volunteering award. The vital work of Hamilton befriending charity Covey was celebrated at an 'inspiring' special event for young people, volunteers and supporters – with the organisation also being honoured with a prestigious volunteering award. More than 60 guests gathered for the Connecting Covey evening, highlighting the group's work in providing mentoring and support services for families across Lanarkshire, and bringing together partners including funders and community representatives. Covey – which stands for Community Volunteers Enabling You – was presented on the night with the Investing in Volunteers award, which was accepted on behalf of the organisation by its longest-serving volunteer. Guests at the event included Central Scotland MSP and former Covey volunteer Monica Lennon, who gave the keynote speech and praised the organisation for its 'transformative support' and commitment to young people and families. She was joined by a further seven speakers, including Udston Primary head teacher Michelle Parker, former participants who now volunteer with Covey and young ambassadors who shared their experiences – with one saying: 'I'll never forget how gently my befriender stood by me, offering space, patience, and kindness. They brought stability, compassion, and a deep sense of being valued.' Young ambassador Emma Naylor provided one of the highlights of the evening as she delivered a heartfelt musical performance inspired by her personal journey with the organisation, earning a standing ovation. Longest-serving volunteer David Kelly, who has been involved with Covey for 21 years, accepted the prestigious Investing in Volunteers award on behalf of the Hamilton organisation. The award, a UK-wide quality standard recognising excellence in volunteer management, reflects 'deep commitment to supporting, valuing and developing volunteers' and was presented by Jimmy Wilson, the chief executive of Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire. Covey also launched their new Looking Ahead strategy at the event, sharing their plans to focus on 'building brighter futures for families in Lanarkshire' at the gathering of charity participants, trustees, supporters and funders including the Scottish Government and STV Children's Appeal. Chief executive Lee Johnstone said: 'This was more than a celebration – it was a powerful reminder of what's possible when a community comes together with purpose and heart. 'Inspired by the powerful stories we've heard, we are focused on helping even more children and families feel valued, supported and connected through our befriending, mentoring and family support services, ensuring no one has to face their challenges alone.' More information on the charity's work and on getting involved is available at
The National
30-06-2025
- Business
- The National
Scotland may jail polluters for 20 years: 3 key questions
Monica Lennon's proposed Ecocide (Scotland) Bill could make Scotland the first part of the UK to have such a law, imposing tough penalties on executives responsible for major environmental damage. It could mean major polluters are jailed for up to 20 years or companies could face unlimited fines. The bill was published last month by Lennon, who said it would deter people and firms from harming Scotland's natural environment. READ MORE: Scotland can lead the world with 'ecocide' bill currently in Holyrood Scrutiny of the bill is taking place over the summer recess and a vote is expected to take place this year. Questions being put to members of the public and organisations, which include: Should causing severe environmental damage be treated as a serious and distinct criminal offence? Are current penalties imposed by courts on individuals and organisations adequate? Could creating this offence impact on legitimate activities? Holyrood's Net Zero Committee is inviting views in a process which will run until September 9. Committee convener Edward Mountain said: 'We all agree on the need to address the biodiversity crisis and protect and restore fragile ecosystems. That includes making sure there are fitting penalties for serious environmental damage. 'Introducing ecocide into Scots criminal law could send a strong message to individuals and organisations about the gravity of serious environmental damage and act as a deterrent, changing corporate behaviour and individual decision-making for the better. 'While protecting the environment is vital, it's also important to ensure that any new measures strike the right balance – avoiding disproportionate costs for public bodies, individuals and businesses, or inhibiting development or infrastructure in places where it is needed and wanted. 'And before making new laws, its right to reflect on how well current measures to combat environmental damage work and whether they're backed up with sufficient resources.'
