Latest news with #OBE
Glasgow Times
9 hours ago
- General
- Glasgow Times
Tributes for East Renfrewshire councillor Betty Cunningham
She had served her constituents in Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for 26 years and her dedication to the area was recognised last year when she received a Lifetime Legend award at the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA annual councillor awards. Books of Condolence have been set up at the council offices in Barrhead Main Street and at Eastwood HQ for members of the public to pay their respects. Betty was first elected in 1999 and was Provost of East Renfrewshire Council from 2003 to 2007. She received an OBE from the Queen in the New Year's Honours List of 2011 for services to East Renfrewshire and Malawi. She had first travelled to the African country in 2007 and set up a charity – the Betty Cunningham International Trust – which built a health clinic and nursery schools. Council leader Owen O'Donnell, who signed the Book of Condolence at the Council's Eastwood HQ, said: "Betty's passing has left me with a great sense of grief and sorrow which will be shared by the wider Labour family, council staff and colleagues, the many lives she touched in Barrhead and East Renfrewshire and much further afield in her beloved Malawi. "This all still feels so raw and a time of personal grieving. We will have time in the days and weeks ahead to more fully celebrate her life together. Social justice and the sense of what is right and wrong was ingrained in Betty's DNA. "She was a ferocious fighter for the people of Barrhead and beyond and would leave then Prime Minister Tony Blair and First Minister Jack McConnell trembling in her wake! "She had the biggest heart but was also great fun and someone you wanted to spend time with. "Betty was no prouder than when she received the Lifetime Legend award at the LGIU awards last year. "This was a fitting award and well-deserved tribute to mark her career. READ MORE: Send us photos of your May newborn to appear in Barrhead News "My thoughts and prayers remain with her family at this time who graciously welcomed me into their home so I could say my final goodbyes in the hours before Betty passed away. "Betty will remain an inspiration for us all." Provost Mary Montague, who signed the Book of Condolence in Barrhead, added: "Betty's death is a sad loss to her family, colleagues, staff, and many people locally and far and wide. Strong in character and often in her language, she was formidable in fighting for the best interests of Barrhead and East Renfrewshire. "She was a determined champion for a just cause and, for anyone who found themselves in a difficult situation and asked Betty for help, they got it. "Betty was a paradox of fiercely not pulling her punches when necessary to a woman of incredible empathy, compassion and love for fellow human beings. "She was particularly supportive to my family at the time of a close family bereavement and a fundraiser for defibrillators was on her very full agenda of benevolence. "She is well known for her many achievements for good causes like Malawi, but many will carry with them the memory of her quiet, loving, personal support. "My condolences and my heart go out to Betty's family whom she loved with a passion and I hope they see from the hundreds of lovely messages on social media, just how much Betty was appreciated and the extent of her legacy of public service." Steven Quinn, chief executive of East Renfrewshire Council, said: "As a new chief executive spending time with Betty as she took me around Barrhead (or Borrheid as I was often corrected), it was incredible to witness at first hand her passion and dedication for her community and the work she had done to support so many people. "Betty was always thinking of others and took a special interest in helping people who were facing challenges in their lives. It was a privilege to get to know and work with Betty. "Her death is a massive loss to her community and to East Renfrewshire Council. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time." There were also tributes to Betty from across the political spectrum. (Image: Paul O'Kane) Local MSP Paul O'Kane said: "Betty Wood-Cunningham OBE was Barrhead through and through. "She loved the bones and the stones of this place, and she was immensely proud to represent it on the council for over two decades. "She worked day in and day out for local people and was always to be found on her mobile phone sorting out a constituent's problem (often with quite a few expletives thrown into the conversation). "As Provost, she represented East Renfrewshire across the country and worked hard to make everyone feel like they were a VIP when the Provost came to officiate at an event. This often included a run in the 'Provost's motor'. "She raised thousands of pounds for charities from supporting talented young musicians locally to local churches, hospices and of course her beloved Malawi. "She was fiercely political and fiercely Labour - standing up for working people was in her DNA. "On a personal level, she was my political mammy and a dear friend. For all the times she chided me or we had our disagreements, there were countless more examples of her kindness and generosity to me and my family. READ MORE: East Renfrewshire ranked best in Scotland for 19 different council services "She was one of a kind - from the foot of the town to receiving her OBE from the late Queen at the Palace she was always Betty. "I will miss her terribly. May she rest in peace." Councillor Gordon Wallace, leader of the Conservative group on East Renfrewshire Council, said: "I was greatly saddened to learn of Betty's death. She will be greatly missed, not least by the people of Barrhead for whom she so tirelessly and passionately represented for over 25 years." And SNP group leader, Councillor Tony Buchanan, added: "Betty was a stalwart in her community and a fearless fighter on behalf of that community. "She was feisty and would not tolerate anyone who would decry her beloved Barrhead. "She was also a great believer in equity at both home and abroad, the latter through the work of her Malawi charity. "Betty stood up for people who needed support, gave them a voice and made sure the council delivered for them."
The National
10 hours ago
- General
- The National
Tributes made to long-serving East Renfrewshire councillor
She had served her constituents in Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for 26 years and her dedication to the area was recognised last year when she received a Lifetime Legend award at the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA annual councillor awards. Books of Condolence have been set up at the council offices in Barrhead Main Street and at Eastwood HQ for members of the public to pay their respects. READ MORE: Douglas Ross slapped down by Holyrood Presiding Officer after FMQ's ejection Betty was first elected in 1999 and was Provost of East Renfrewshire Council from 2003 to 2007. She received an OBE from the Queen in the New Year's Honours List of 2011 for services to East Renfrewshire and Malawi. She had first travelled to the African country in 2007 and set up a charity – the Betty Cunningham International Trust – which built a health clinic and nursery schools. Council leader Owen O'Donnell, who signed the Book of Condolence at the council's Eastwood HQ, said: "Betty's passing has left me with a great sense of grief and sorrow which will be shared by the wider Labour family, council staff and colleagues, the many lives she touched in Barrhead and East Renfrewshire and much further afield in her beloved Malawi. "This all still feels so raw and a time of personal grieving. We will have time in the days and weeks ahead to more fully celebrate her life together. Social justice and the sense of what is right and wrong was ingrained in Betty's DNA. "She was a ferocious fighter for the people of Barrhead and beyond and would leave then Prime Minister Tony Blair and First Minister Jack McConnell trembling in her wake! "She had the biggest heart but was also great fun and someone you wanted to spend time with. "Betty was no prouder than when she received the Lifetime Legend award at the LGIU awards last year. "This was a fitting award and well-deserved tribute to mark her career. "My thoughts and prayers remain with her family at this time who graciously welcomed me into their home so I could say my final goodbyes in the hours before Betty passed away. "Betty will remain an inspiration for us all." Provost Mary Montague, who signed the Book of Condolence in Barrhead, added: "Betty's death is a sad loss to her family, colleagues, staff, and many people locally and far and wide. Strong in character and often in her language, she was formidable in fighting for the best interests of Barrhead and East Renfrewshire. "She was a determined champion for a just cause and, for anyone who found themselves in a difficult situation and asked Betty for help, they got it. "Betty was a paradox of fiercely not pulling her punches when necessary to a woman of incredible empathy, compassion and love for fellow human beings. READ MORE: New poll shows Scots overwhelmingly back indy over Westminster direct rule "She was particularly supportive to my family at the time of a close family bereavement and a fundraiser for defibrillators was on her very full agenda of benevolence. "She is well known for her many achievements for good causes like Malawi, but many will carry with them the memory of her quiet, loving, personal support. "My condolences and my heart go out to Betty's family whom she loved with a passion and I hope they see from the hundreds of lovely messages on social media, just how much Betty was appreciated and the extent of her legacy of public service." Steven Quinn, chief executive of East Renfrewshire Council, said: "As a new chief executive spending time with Betty as she took me around Barrhead (or Borrheid as I was often corrected), it was incredible to witness at first hand her passion and dedication for her community and the work she had done to support so many people. "Betty was always thinking of others and took a special interest in helping people who were facing challenges in their lives. It was a privilege to get to know and work with Betty. "Her death is a massive loss to her community and to East Renfrewshire Council. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time." There were also tributes to Betty from across the political spectrum. (Image: Paul O'Kane) Local MSP Paul O'Kane said: "Betty Wood-Cunningham OBE was Barrhead through and through. "She loved the bones and the stones of this place, and she was immensely proud to represent it on the council for over two decades. "She worked day in and day out for local people and was always to be found on her mobile phone sorting out a constituent's problem (often with quite a few expletives thrown into the conversation). READ MORE: Scottish artist stunned following chance encounter with legendary rock musician "As Provost, she represented East Renfrewshire across the country and worked hard to make everyone feel like they were a VIP when the Provost came to officiate at an event. This often included a run in the 'Provost's motor'. "She raised thousands of pounds for charities from supporting talented young musicians locally to local churches, hospices and of course her beloved Malawi. "She was fiercely political and fiercely Labour - standing up for working people was in her DNA. "On a personal level,l she was my political mammy and a dear friend. For all the times she chided me or we had our disagreements, there were countless more examples of her kindness and generosity to me and my family. "She was one of a kind - from the foot of the town to receiving her OBE from the late Queen at the Palace she was always Betty. "I will miss her terribly. May she rest in peace." Councillor Gordon Wallace, leader of the Conservative group on East Renfrewshire Council, said: "I was greatly saddened to learn of Betty's death. She will be greatly missed, not least by the people of Barrhead for whom she so tirelessly and passionately represented for over 25 years." And SNP group leader, councillor Tony Buchanan, added: "Betty was a stalwart in her community and a fearless fighter on behalf of that community. "She was feisty and would not tolerate anyone who would decry her beloved Barrhead. "She was also a great believer in equity at both home and abroad, the latter through the work of her Malawi charity. "Betty stood up for people who needed support, gave them a voice and made sure the council delivered for them."
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Iconic former Reading owner set for Q&A session at popular town centre venue
Sir John Madejski OBE will reflect on his time as owner of Reading FC at an exclusive Q&A event at the Purple Turtle on Tuesday, July 15, starting at 7.30pm. He will also discuss the new Reading FC ownership. Advertisement A Q&A will be followed by questions from the audience and there will be a chance to meet the former owner. Sir John became chairman in 1990 and, after the club had a new stadium built in his name, Reading went on to play in the Premier League for three seasons. He relinquished control of the club in 2012 and became honorary life president, and remains a staunch supporter of the club at the age of 84. He is also Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire and was knighted in the 2009 New Year Honours, for charitable services. The Purple Turtle in Gun Street, Reading, has hosted a number of Q&A events with former Reading stars and the Q&A with former manager Steve Coppell in April was a sell out. Advertisement The venue will host a Q&A with former Reading striker and manager Jimmy Quinn on Sunday, June 22, starting at 5.30pm - and is also in talks with current owner Rob Couhig about hosting a Q&A with him. Tickets for the Q&A with Sir John Madejski are £10 each, with a limited number of meet and greet tickets available at £17.50. Ticket information for the Sir John Madejski Q&A and other Q&A events at the Purple Turtle is available by sending a WhatsApp or text message to 07842 627548.
Business Recorder
7 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
NA body briefed about NTS, PEC issues
ISLAMABAD: The 9th meeting of the Standing Committee on Science and Technology was held Tuesday at the Parliament House, under the chairmanship of Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood, MNA. The meeting agenda included briefing on the National Testing Service (NTS) and the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC). During the briefing on NTS, the committee has directed the Ministry of Science and Technology to fully resolve the matter concerning the NTS. It has also recommended involving the Ministry of Law to ensure a comprehensive and formal resolution of the issue. The ministry was instructed to take prompt and decisive action, ensuring all steps taken are in complete compliance with the relevant statutory requirements. Members of the committee reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. They stressed that the collaboration between the NTS and the Ministry of Law must result in a coherent and sustainable solution that upholds public confidence in institutional processes. In the second agenda item, PEC presented a detailed briefing on its ongoing initiatives and strategic direction. PEC continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Pakistan's engineering sector by adhering to international accreditation standards and fostering lifelong learning among professionals. The Council has successfully implemented an internationally benchmarked Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Accreditation System, ensuring that engineering programs across the country meet global quality standards and produce competent, industry-ready professionals. To support continuous learning, PEC is actively promoting Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in collaboration with various Professional Engineering Bodies (PEBs). These CPD activities are designed to enhance technical and soft skills, enabling engineers to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global environment. Furthermore, PEC conducts the Engineering Practice Examination (EPE) nationwide, granting successful candidates the esteemed title of 'Professional Engineer', which enhances their credibility and employability within the engineering sector. To bridge the gap between academia and industry, PEC has introduced a six-month structured training program for fresh graduates. This initiative equips young engineers with practical exposure, technical competencies, and essential soft skills, preparing them for real-world challenges. PEC reiterated its commitment to developing a highly skilled and resilient engineering workforce, essential for sustainable development and technological innovation across Pakistan. The meeting was attended by MNAs, Shahnaz Saleem Malik (On Zoom), Seema Mohiuddin Jamili, Irfan Ali Leghari, Ramesh Lal, Mahtab Akbar Rashdi (On Zoom), Khurram Shahzad Virk (On Zoom), Mian Ghous Muhammad, Muhammad Moazzam Ali Khan ,Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi along with senior officers from the Ministry of Science and Technology. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Glasgow Times
27-05-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Who is Michelle Mone? Entrepraneur's rise and fall explained
Michelle Mone OBE, also known as Baroness Mone, is a Scottish businesswoman and life peer. One of the UK's most high-profile businesswomen, one of her businesses is now under investigation by the National Crime Agency. She is also on leave from the House of Lords and has been stripped of the Conservative whip. And this is her story. Who is Michelle Mone? Michelle Mone OBE, 53, is a Scottish businesswoman and entrepreneur. Baroness Mone is also a peer in the House of Lords, but is on leave due to the investigation. She was born in October 1971 and grew up in Dennistoun in Glasgow. Baroness Mone left school at 15 with no qualifications to pursue a career in modelling. She has a number of businesses, but set up what is perhaps the two most notable, MJM International Ltd and lingerie company Ultimo in 1996, with her former husband, Michael Mone. In 2013, after their marriage collapsed, Ultimo was transferred to Ultimo Brands International Ltd. The following year, Baroness Mone sold the majority of her stake to MAS Holdings and in 2015, she resigned from the boards of MJM International Ltd and Ultimo Brands International Ltd. In 2018, Ultimo announced it was ceasing trading within the UK. In 2010, Baroness Mone was honoured with an OBE for her outstanding contribution to business. Despite originally being a Labour supporter, she defected to the Conservatives in 2010 and became a Conservative life peer in 2015. Now the Baroness is married to Scottish businessman Douglas Barrowman. What is Michelle Mone's net worth? According to Celebrity Net Worth, the Baroness has a net worth of $120 million (£88 million). Michelle Mone made her money through various business ventures (Image: PHOTOGRAPHER:Wattie Cheung) Other business ventures of Baroness Mone include weight-loss pills, a fake tan product via Ultimo Beauty, overseas residential development and cryptocurrency. Has Michelle Mone been charged? Investigation explained Baroness Mone is being investigated for personal protective equipment (PPE) fraud by the National Crime Agency (NCA). The Baroness and her husband and Doug Barrowman, have been under fire over the pair's involvement with PPE supplier Medpro. During the height of the pandemic, PPE was low and supplies were needed quickly. In a bid to get PPE faster, the UK government avoided the normal contracts for the NHS that have to be made public and instead looked for other quicker options, with the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) offering £12bn to companies with PPE. This included Medpro, who, in exchange for PPE, got two contracts, one at £80m for masks and the second for £120m for gowns. Watch our interview with Baroness Mone and Doug Barrowman here - — Laura Kuenssberg (@bbclaurak) December 17, 2023 However, only the masks were of standard and used as the gowns were found to not be suitable, seeing the NHS never used them It later emerged that PPE Medpro was controlled by people connected to Doug Barrowman, however, both he and the Baroness denied any links to the company. In January 2022, the House of Lords Commissioner for Standards and the National Crime Agency launched investigations into Mone's links to the contracts. Baroness Mone announced a leave of absence from the House of Lords that December "to clear her name" amid the allegations. Shortly after, the UK government announced plans to sue PPE Medpro for £122 million plus costs over the defective items. The couple have since admitted they do have links to the company and shared they made 30% profits from the contracts, with Barrowman earning a reported £60m from the deal. To date, no criminal charges have been brought forward. Recommended reading: How to watch the Michelle Mone documentary The BBC documentary, The Rise and Fall of Michelle Mone, will be told over two episodes. The first part is on BBC Two on Wednesday, May 28, at 9 pm. A synopsis reads: "The rise and spectacular fall of one of the UK's most high-profile businesswoman and member of the House of Lords, Baroness Michelle Mone - from rags to riches to a possible jail term."
