Latest news with #RoyalYachtBritannia
Edinburgh Reporter
14 hours ago
- Health
- Edinburgh Reporter
Charity abseil raises funds for scores of charities
Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus (SBH) Scotland has raised around £100,000 for 40 different Scottish charities with their new event The Port of Leith Distillery abseil. In May, more 350 people abseiled down the side of The Port of Leith Distillery, the tallest distillery in the world, to raise funds for charity. Participants descended 100ft down from the top of the distillery, hopefully while enjoying the breathtaking views across Edinburgh's skyline and of the historic Royal Yacht Britannia. SBH Scotland organised the new fundraising event and partnered with other Scottish charities. A total of £48,000 was raised for SBH Scotland through the event. These vital funds will help SBH Scotland support people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus in Edinburgh and beyond to ensure that no-one is left to cope alone. Scottish businesses also signed up to take part in the abseil, including staff members from The Port of Leith Distillery, with CEOs Paddy Fletcher and Ian Stirling the first to abseil down the building. Chisholm Hunter also had a team of employees take part and staff members from Orbit Communications, YourGB, Rollos and Whitelaw Wells, who took part and raised money for SBH Scotland. Lawrence Cowan, CEO of Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland, said: 'Thank you so much to everyone who took part in The Port of Leith Distillery abseil for making it a massive success! We are absolutely delighted that the event has raised an incredible £100,000 for 40 different Scottish charities. 'I want to say a special thank you to everyone who took part and raised money for SBH Scotland. You helped raise a whopping £48,000 for our charity that will help us deliver our vital services and ensure the families we support feel unstoppable.' Ian Stirling, co-CEO and co-founder at The Port of Leith Distillery, said: 'From the moment The Port of Leith Distillery took shape we've imagined abseiling down the side of it. My co-founder Paddy and I were thrilled to be the first people to take the leap. 'What a tremendous weekend – it was amazing to see so many people come together and support such a fantastic charity.' SBH Scotland hosts The Port of Leith Distillery Abseil and works in partnership with other Scottish charities, whose supporters are also taking part to raise much-needed funds for a range of worthy causes. For more information, visit: Like this: Like Related
The Herald Scotland
3 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Visionary Glaswegian who played key role in transforming Leith dies
Died: April 2025 Terry Smith, who has died aged 78, was a leading figure in Forth Ports plc who played a key role in the regeneration of Leith and was instrumental in setting up The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust. He spent 15 years as property director at Forth Ports, during which time Leith improved beyond all recognition. Some of Edinburgh's most underused land was transformed into desirable residential property and restaurants. Ocean Terminal shopping and leisure complex was created, the new Scottish Office built and a prestigious home found for the former Royal Yacht Britannia, which has grown into a magnificent tourist attraction, often voted number 1 in the UK on Trip Advisor. Without Terry's vision, creativity and determination, Britannia would undoubtedly have gone elsewhere. Terry's sense of innovation attracted many designers to the area including the architect Terence Conran, who was responsible for designing Ocean Terminal, which commands incredible views of the port. And Ken McCulloch, creator of One Devonshire Gardens in Glasgow, renovated the former Sailors' Home into the boutique Malmaison Hotel on Tower Place along the Shore, which is complemented by Terry's carefully commissioned ornate ironworks. By driving the change in this vibrant and attractive community, Terry was even able to lure the famed MTV music awards to Leith in 2003. In his time, the company also launched Forthside, encompassing major developments at Granton Harbour, Western Harbour and Port of Leith, which together cover about 450 acres and over two miles of shoreline. Terry supported the initial bid for the establishment of the Edinburgh Trams, linking the airport, railway stations and cruise liners to the seaport, establishing the Port of Leith as the heart of the waterfront city area. He was a Fellow of the Institute of Building and served as a director of Leith Enterprise Trust, Leith Chamber of Commerce and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Not one to rest on his laurels, he remained on the board of trustees for the Royal Yacht Britannia for the rest of his life. The attraction's website notes 'he played a key role in the regeneration of Leith and was instrumental in setting up The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust'. The Forth Ports team, led by the former CEO of 25 years, Bob Downie, also went on to secure and renovate the Fingal, a former Northern Lighthouse Board Ship, into the award-winning luxury floating boutique hotel that can be seen today, docked not far from Britannia in Alexandra Dock. Terry was born in Kelvindale, Glasgow. His parents, Terence and Dorothy, met on shore leave from the Navy – his dad was stationed on mine sweepers in the Mediterranean and his mother was a Wren. They went on to be a builder and shorthand typist respectively. Terry had an elder brother, Hamish, who moved to Trinidad in his early twenties, married Heather and built his life and family out there. He also had two younger twin sisters; Isobel remained in Glasgow with her husband Douglas, but Maggie also travelled extensively for work with her husband Frank and their children. Read more Growing up, Terry displayed a passion for vehicles, and from an early age would cobble together bogies using old pram wheels with built-in brakes. Over the years, this tinkering, turned into a solid hobby and at age 24, his Metron car design was subject to a two-page spread in Motor Magazine. He enjoyed racing several of his creations on the hill-climbing circuit for many years. More recently he developed the unique Marcos Evolution XP, Charterhall Speedster and Unipower Evolution car designs, which were displayed and admired at the Thirlestane Festival of Motoring, among others. His practical upbringing steered him towards the College of Building and Printing in Glasgow, where Terry studied and trained to be a quantity surveyor. After applying for jobs in both the motor and construction industry, it was contractor company Gilbert-Ash that laid the pathway of his future career. He soon became head of their general works department, taking on smaller jobs which led to more lucrative assignments. It was while working on the Cameron Toll development in Edinburgh that he was spotted and approached to join Forth Ports. In 1971 Terry met Janis, who become the love of his life. By 1977 he and Janis, a primary school teacher, had welcomed their three children, Martin, Julia and Marina, all of whom have gone on to their own fulfilling careers, as film director, ceramicist and Destination Tweed Project Manager respectively. Over the years, Terry renovated and built several properties for his family. First, he converted an Old Coach House in Helensburgh, with the help of his father Terence. Then he moved on to a newbuild on an old market garden site in Edinburgh. And, keeping the Leith legacy alive, he converted one of the few remaining single-level houses, the old Gate Keeper's Office, into a home for his son Martin. Terry Smith with a propeller from the Royal Yacht Britannia (Image: Contributed) There aren't many people who didn't recognise Terry around Leith docks and his combination of practical skills, innovative thinking and approachability made him a well-liked and respected figure. At the time of his retirement Terry was congratulated by his team on his significant achievements and by the Britannia Board for his outstanding contribution and kindness. Bob Downie, founding chief executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal Hotel, paid tribute to 'Terry's incredible vision, determination and resulting great success, for which I am extremely grateful'. Terry is survived by his wife Janis, children Martin, Julia and Marina and grandchildren Thomas and Fergus. MARINA PIPER At The Herald, we carry obituaries of notable people from the worlds of business, politics, arts and sport but sometimes we miss people who have led extraordinary lives. That's where you come in. If you know someone who deserves an obituary, please consider telling us about their lives. Contact
Edinburgh Reporter
5 days ago
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
Bright Bus Tours becomes Big Bus Edinburgh
McGills Bus Group is partnering up with Big Bus Tours to launch their open top sightseeing bus tours in the capital. This will take Big Bus tours into their 28th city in the world – and the company is the largest operator of open top bus tours in the globe. The Big Buses will replace the Bright Bus Tours run by McGills which they say they are welcoming as a 'proud new addition to the McGills family'. Pat Waterman, Executive Chairman of Big Bus Tours, said: 'We are delighted to welcome Edinburgh to our expanding portfolio of world-class destinations. Edinburgh's fascinating history, vibrant festivals, rich culture and architectural splendour make it an outstanding addition to our global offerings. Our goal is to give our customers a truly immersive experience as they explore this iconic Scottish city.' The company believes that Edinburgh, with its blend of medieval heritage, Georgian architecture, and contemporary culture, is the ideal setting for Big Bus Tours' flexible sightseeing concept. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks from the top deck of an open-top bus while enjoying expert commentary in nine languages. PHOTO Richard Walter PHOTO Richard Walter Tony Williamson, CEO of McGill's Group, said: 'This is an incredibly exciting moment for McGill's. Bright Bus Tours has become a much loved part of the Edinburgh tourism landscape and this new partnership with Big Bus Tours takes that offering to the next level. We're proud to bring our local expertise to the table, and equally proud to join forces with a global leader in sightseeing. Together, we're ready to create something exceptional for the city.' Big Bus Edinburgh will cover these routes: ' Royal Mile and Grassmarket (City Tour). Wander through Edinburgh's historic heart, lined with medieval architecture, charming shops and lively pubs, all steeped in centuries of history. Wander through Edinburgh's historic heart, lined with medieval architecture, charming shops and lively pubs, all steeped in centuries of history. Edinburgh Castle (City Tour). Dominating the skyline from the Castle rocket, this fortress offers breath taking views and centuries of Scottish history. Dominating the skyline from the Castle rocket, this fortress offers breath taking views and centuries of Scottish history. Palace of Holyroodhouse (City Tour). The official Scottish residence of the King, rich in royal history and a striking example of baroque architecture. The official Scottish residence of the King, rich in royal history and a striking example of baroque architecture. St Andrew Square (Britannia Tour). A lively city centre hub surrounded by Georgian architecture, high-end shops, and restaurants. A lively city centre hub surrounded by Georgian architecture, high-end shops, and restaurants. Royal Yacht Britannia (Britannia Tour). Step aboard the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II and explore five decks of regal history, a top-rated visitor attraction.' Bright Bus Tours were launched by McGills in 2019 Like this: Like Related
Scotsman
24-05-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Scotsman Obituaries: Terry Smith, visionary Forth Ports Property Director who helped transform Leith
Terence Smith, Property Director, Forth Ports. Born: February 1947 in Kelvindale, Glasgow. Died: April 2025 at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, aged 78 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Terry Smith retired from Forth Ports plc in 2006, having spent more than 15 years as Property Director, during which time Leith improved beyond all recognition. Some of Edinburgh's most underused land was transformed into desirable residential property and restaurants. Ocean Terminal shopping and leisure complex was created, the new Scottish Office built and a prestigious home found for the former Royal Yacht Britannia, which has grown into a magnificent tourist attraction, often voted number 1 in the UK on Trip Advisor. Without Terry's vision, creativity and determination, Britannia would undoubtedly have gone elsewhere. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Terry's sense of innovation attracted many designers to the area including the architect Terence Conran, who was responsible for designing Ocean Terminal, which commands incredible views of the port. And Ken McCulloch, creator of One Devonshire Gardens in Glasgow, renovated the former Sailors' Home into the boutique Malmaison Hotel on Tower Place along the Shore, which is complemented by Terry's carefully commissioned ornate ironworks. Terry Smith at the time of the 2003 Citizens exhibition in Ocean Terminal Picture: Trevor E R Yerbury By driving the change in this vibrant and attractive community, Terry was even able to lure the famed MTV music awards to Leith in 2003. In his time, the company also launched Forthside, encompassing major developments at Granton Harbour, Western Harbour and Port of Leith, which together cover about 450 acres and over two miles of shoreline. Terry supported the initial bid for the establishment of the Edinburgh Trams, linking the airport, railway stations and cruise liners to the seaport, establishing the Port of Leith as the heart of the waterfront city area. He was a Fellow of the Institute of Building and served as a Director of Leith Enterprise Trust, Leith Chamber of Commerce and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Not one to rest on his laurels, Terry remained on the Board of Trustees for the Royal Yacht Britannia for the rest of his life. The attraction's website notes 'he played a key role in the regeneration of Leith and was instrumental in setting up The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust'. The Forth Ports team, led by the former CEO of 25 years, Bob Downie, also went on to secure and renovate the Fingal, a former Northern Lighthouse Board Ship, into the award-winning luxury floating boutique hotel that can be seen today, docked not far from Britannia in Alexandra Dock. Terry was born in Glasgow. His parents, Terence and Dorothy, met on shore leave from the Navy – his dad was stationed on mine sweepers in the Mediterranean and his mother was a Wren. They went on to be a builder and shorthand typist respectively. Terry had an elder brother, Hamish, who moved to Trinidad in his early twenties, married Heather and built his life and family out there. He also had two younger twin sisters; Isobel remained in Glasgow with her husband Douglas, but Maggie also travelled extensively for work with her husband Frank and their children. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Growing up, Terry displayed a passion for vehicles, and from an early age would cobble together bogies using old pram wheels with built-in brakes. Over the years, this tinkering, turned into a solid hobby and at age 24 his Metron car design was subject to a two-page spread in Motor Magazine. He enjoyed racing several of his creations on the hill-climbing circuit for many years. More recently he developed the unique Marcos Evolution XP, Charterhall Speedster and Unipower Evolution car designs, which were displayed and admired at the Thirlestane Festival of Motoring, among others. His practical upbringing steered him towards the College of Building and Printing in Glasgow, where Terry studied and trained to be a quantity surveyor. After applying for jobs in both the motor and construction industry, it was contractor company Gilbert-Ash that laid the pathway of his future career. He soon became head of their general works department, taking on smaller jobs which led to more lucrative assignments. It was while working on the Cameron Toll development in Edinburgh that he was spotted and approached to join Forth Ports. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In 1971 Terry met Janis, who become the love of his life. By 1977 he and Janis, a primary school teacher, had welcomed their three children, Martin, Julia and Marina, all of whom have gone on to their own fulfilling careers, as film director, ceramicist and Destination Tweed Project Manager respectively. Over the years, Terry renovated and built several properties for his family. First, he converted an Old Coach House in Helensburgh, with the help of his father Terence. Then he moved on to a newbuild on an old market garden site in Edinburgh. And, keeping the Leith legacy alive, he converted one of the few remaining single-level houses, the old Gate Keeper's Office, into a home for his son Martin. There aren't many people who didn't recognise Terry around Leith docks and his combination of practical skills, innovative thinking and approachability made him a well-liked and respected figure. At the time of his retirement Terry was congratulated by his team on his significant achievements and by the Britannia Board for his outstanding contribution and kindness. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Bob Downie, founding Chief Executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal Hotel, paid tribute to 'Terry's incredible vision, determination and resulting great success, for which I am extremely grateful'. Terry is survived by his wife Janis, children Martin, Julia and Marina and grandchildren Thomas and Fergus. Obituaries
Daily Record
22-05-2025
- Daily Record
One Scottish city has the most 'historical charm' in the UK and another is close behind
SIXT ranked UK cities for historical charm by counting museums, landmarks, and heritage sites within two miles of each centre Two of Scotland's biggest cities have been recognised for their timeless appeal, securing top spots on a new list of the most historically charming destinations in the UK. Edinburgh has officially been crowned as Britain's most historically rich city. And Scotland's biggest city, Glasgow, came in close behind, proudly taking third place in a ranking compiled by car rental experts SIXT. The list, which also places Brighton in second, celebrates cities that offer a window into Britain's past through architecture, museums and cultural landmarks. To compile the rankings, SIXT analysed the number of museums, listed buildings, conservation areas, heritage sites and historical landmarks within a two-mile radius of each city centre. It comes amid a surge in interest in the nation's heritage, with more than 51,000 Google searches for 'UK history' made in the past month alone. SIXT said: 'So, if you're looking for some historic charm during your UK road trip, where exactly should you be aiming to take a detour? 'We calculated which cities are home to the most museums, heritage sites, listed buildings, conservation sites and landmarks within a two-mile radius to provide you with the ultimate guide to history on wheels.' Edinburgh leads the way with 65 historic attractions Scotland's capital city came out on top with 65 notable historical points of interest, from iconic landmarks to immersive museums. Known for its striking skyline and centuries-old buildings, Edinburgh offers something for every type of visitor. Among the most searched attractions are the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and the National Galleries. As well as these the iconic Edinburgh Castle also featured, as it has seen a staggering 25,000 UK searches in the last month alone as people plan summer visits. Whether you're exploring solo, as a couple or with family, Auld Reekie promises a history-filled experience at every turn. Glasgow secures a top-three finish Just behind Brighton, Glasgow takes third place with 48 historical hotspots scattered across the city. Long known for its industrial heritage and dynamic cultural scene, Scotland's largest city is also earning praise for its deep historical roots. SIXT's findings reveal more than 39,000 searches for 'things to do in Glasgow' in the past month, indicating a strong appetite for exploring the city's past. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Glasgow Cathedral, the nearby Provand's Lordship - the oldest house in the city - and the People's Palace and Winter Gardens. The Dear Green Place is also abundant with parks, including the stunning Kelvingrove, which sits right beside Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, for added culture to your trip. Brighton ranked second for seaside heritage Brighton claimed the runner-up spot, thanks to its 50 heritage-rich sites that include the famous Royal Pavilion, once the seaside palace of King George IV, and The Lanes, a charming labyrinth of historic alleyways filled with antique shops and old pubs. While known today as a bustling beachside escape that draws over 11 million visitors each year, Brighton's historical offerings prove just as magnetic as its sunny shores.
