As we all depart for a festive Christmas and jolly Hogmanay, I thought I would pass on some thoughts about my continuing fascination with all things Nordic, Scandic, Viking and Baltic. I went to Iceland on a number of occasions this year and took my recorder and my camera to record . Here are the results.
I have received a number of very positive comments from listeners about the Great LIves programme. I had proposed the late David Ervine. The subject matter and participants made for 'gritty' and 'honest' radio. This is the sort of radio I want to be involved with. Thanks to all who listened and responded. Feedback is always welcome.
Back in June, I posted some information about a young cyclist, Isla Ratcliff. She was attempting to cycle from Moscow to Edinburgh to raise money for street kids in Ethiopia. She did it and here's the proof.
Her on bike computer showing the mileage. Isla had an amazing time and you can read about it here.
Well done !
The late David Ervine was a great man that I was fortunate enough to interview. Recently I was asked to go on the BBC Radio 4 series 'Great Lives'. The programme was interesting in more ways than one. It was broadcast on Tuesday 9 Septmeber and repeated on Friday 12 September at 11pm. You can listen again here.
This young lady is cycling from Moscow to Edinburgh setting off on June 30. Not only that; she intends to busk all the way to raise money for street children in Ethiopia. Isla is the daughter of a good friend of mine, Andrew Wightman. She has written a little bit about this trip here on her website.
Isla is looking for sponsorship and I am sure she would be grateful for any contributions you could make. Details of how to give are on her web site at buskingforchildren.org or sweetypops.net
And, just in case you were worried, mum and dad will be coming along too. I know there are a lot cycling fans out there and I do hope you can support Isla. Having seen the route, I am impressed and a wee bit jealous !
Social Media in Plain English from leelefever on Vimeo.
This short video is about the best short guide to blogging, podcasting and "social media".
Matt Shaw contacted me a while ago about the proposed closure of the Healthworks leisure complex in Perth. The campaign group, Save the Gym , have been active in gathering support in the local press, national media and politicians. The deadline for closure is today. How ironic that this should be happening the day after the Sports Minister Stewart Maxwell said ;
"It is incumbent upon us all, national and local Government, to offer more choices and more chances for people to take part in sport across Scotland, underpinned by facilities that are fit for purpose"
I visited the Healthworks on Saturday and the place was mobbed with all ages enjoying sports, including some punishing circuit training. The facilities were modern but well used. Letting this community facility close its doors without exploring all the options for its continued operation seems unsporting.
The Herald have got a good piece on a guy who inspired me; Owen McGhee. My involvement with the Scottish Motor Neurone Disease Association flowed directly from meeting Owen a few years back. A great guy and a a real bundle of energy. And what a coincidence, the article appears on the same day as my husband signs up for the Association's 20th Fun Run !
On Saturday morning, Ian Smith MSP chaired a panel of Ian Small Head of BBC Public Policy, Thomas Prague of Oftcom and myself. For an hour we discussed the state of broadcasting in Scotland and everyone had a square go. As an independent radio producer, I had a lot to put on the table. It was streamed over at the BBC and the debate is still available by clicking here. It was a very interesting morning and I think we all made sense ...given the early hour of the morning and Saturday .
