LOVE ISLAND’S EKIN SCARED OF SCOTS TAP WATER

 

Love Island’s Ekin Su Cülcüloğlu was worried sick she might have caught something contagious from the ghost of King Henry VIII after drinking tap water at an ancient hotel during a trip to Scotland.

And she admitted she even ended up texting friends to see if she was OK.  

 The brunette beauty, who also starred in Traitors US, recently hit the headlines after denying she is dating Married At First Sight star Georges Berthonneau after the two were spotted together at a gym. 

Just this month she spent three days with pals visiting Scotland, exploring local sights and enjoying a sumptuous dinner at Glasgow’s AC Marriott hotel for their first birthday celebrations.

After being given a crystal bracelet to bring her ‘abundance, hope and money’ by Scot’s jewellery company Space to Create, and Dancing On Ice star Alex Murphy, Ekin told the Sunday Mail about her fears over the local tap water. 

Ekin, 30, who revealed she had been staying in a vast suite at Mar Hall hotel in Bishopton  had even written a text message about it which she later shared online:

It said:  “Hi guys I've brushed my teeth with this tap Water here.Is it safe? X”

Her Scots friend Victoria Halliday replied: “Hello Yes the water in Scotland is safe/great to drink xx.”

Ekin Su who also thought her hotel room was haunted by the ghost of Henry 8th, then responded: “Okay thank you I thought it was Henry V111 water. Just thinking it might have something contagious plague?”

Victoria later added: “Normal chat when you're staying in a haunted castle.”

During her time in Scotland, Ekin and a group of influencers including Saffron Barker, visited Sexy Coffee in Glasgow and also listened to a mix of traditional and modern songs by a harpist while enjoying a meal including fresh salmon blinis, duck, halibut and a chocolate dessert, at the Glasgow AC Marriott as part of their birthday dinner.

Ekin told her friends: “I’m single and ready to mingle. I’ve got this really nice bracelet and it means abundance and hope and money. I’m hoping that my life is going to be more successful.”

She was also seen at dinner in Harvey Nicks Edinburgh before heading back to London ahead of work commitments.

The star says she has some new telly projects lined up next year in both the States and UK. 

And she added that she is on the dating site Raya for any potential suitors now that she has turned thirty.

ALLY MCCOIST DOES DANIEL CRAIG ON BIRTHDAY

ALLY McCoist was compared by fans to Daniel Craig as he walked out of the sea bland bated his chest during his latest birthday celebrations. 
The Scottish footballer turned presenter was celebrating his 62nd birthday in Fascadale Bay on the West coast of Scotland when he decided to slip on his trunks and go for a dip in the freezing water there. 
Ally who was with his pal Steve in the water, attempted to walk out of the water smoothly as he adjusted his trunks for the camera. 
He told his followers online: “Last week's birthday celebrations included a trip to Fascadale Bay on the West Coast of Scotland I can 100% confirm it was freezing my friends Jeff, James & Neil bottled it, well done Steve who came in.”

Ally who also posted footage of his accommodation and showed off a mouse that was holding behind a bin added: “ I can also confirm the mouse in my lodge room was also real, I never did see him again he vanished, great week and great company.”
Ally said during the video of his escapades : “I’m too old guys I cannot lie to you, but I’m glad I did it.”

Fans however loved his latest footage and many compared him to Daniel Craig - saying he was even better than the Bond star. 
One said: “Daniel Craig eat your heart out!! I'd have chosen Ally every time and still would - 40 years I've been besotted with you now thanks to that hat trick against Celtic in the Skol Cup final in 1984. I'll pass on your hotel recommendations right enough.”
Another added: “@allymccoist9 Daniel Craig watch out.”

Someone else told him: “Daniel Craig is that you?”
And a fourth added: “ The names McCoist, Alistair Murdoch McCoist.”
Another also told him he gave the Hoff a run for his money as they told him he looked better now than he did in the 90s and added: “The Hoff no got a look in.”

THE TRAITORS US STAR ALAN CUMMING HAD TO MEDICATE AFTER TICK BITES

TRAITORS star Alan Cumming has revealed he had to take antibiotics to avoid the spread of Lyme disease after being bitten by two ticks on a photoshoot. 

Alan, who says he is a country boy at heart, currently lives in The Catskills in  New York and was doing a story about his life there for a magazine. 
However, as part of the shoot, Alan was seen climbing up ladders to trim hedging, and posing by a caravan in the woodlands surrounding his home. 
He has now told his followers he had to take antibiotics for four weeks after he noticed bites on himself following the photos. 
Alan, who posed for Upstate Diary magazine with his dog Lala, explained: “Lala and I are in the new issue of @upstate_diary.

Alan Cumming from Instagram

 Fun fact: I got two ticks during the shoot, one of which I didn't discover till a day or two later, and had to take a month of antibiotics to avoid getting Lyme's disease! Fashion and showbiz are perilous, people! 
Talking of which, all my clothes are by @paisleyandgray.”
Alan is currently in the highlands of Scotland where he is believed to be filming the latest series of Traitors. 

GLENEAGLES HOTEL WELCOMES BURNS NIGHT WITH WINTRY COCKTAILS

WHEN it comes to Burns night there are few venues in Scotland as impressive as the famed Gleneagles, nestled in the heart of the Ochil Hills in Perthshire. 

The revered hotel which has captivated travellers for nigh on 100 years is inviting discerning customers to indulge their Burns night this month at The American Bar, winners of the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award at The World's 50 Best Bars. 

The showbizlion.com believes there is nothing better than a luxury hotel which offers both adventure and outdoor pursuits combined with fine dining and a drinks menu to challenge your tastebuds. 

In keeping with true Scottish tradition, Gleneagles are pleased to present the Honeyberry cocktail - an elevated Scottish Whisky cocktail using  Aberfeldy 12 year whisky, Honeyberry and Kefir 13. 

Combined together the liquid is a perfect complement to whisky and when combined, results in an Alexander-style cocktail – creamy but deceptively light with a spicy finish. 

Renowned Head of Bars, Michele Mariotti, has taken its luxury offerings to the next level, focusing on locality and taking an innovative approach to incorporate ingredients sourced from the Gleneagles’ rolling hills of Perthshire, resulting in a truly unique bar experience. 

Whether guests choose to visit The American Bar or The Century Bar, they can indulge in the most tantalising and inventive cocktails crafted with the finest ingredients found both locally and within the hotel's existing ecosystem.

Gleneagles' American Bar offers beautiful decor that playfully evokes the glamour of the 1920s and ‘30s.  The walls of the bar exude opulence, wrapped in a unique Scottish heather dyed cashmere, woven exclusively for Gleneagles.

The stunning original fireplaces, restored to their former glory, boast lilac marble and custom-made brass mirrors, while vintage glass column wall lights add a touch of old-world charm to the luxurious cashmere panelling. This bar is a visual feast for the senses, transporting you to a world of excitement and elegance. 

The bar team is passionate about creating imaginative and exciting drinks, as demonstrated by their highly anticipated Book of Berries menu launched in 2022. Inspired by the 20th-century Observer Books, this menu features eighteen cocktails, each dedicated to a single botanical berry sourced from the local area and produced sustainably.

The Book of Berries menu is not only a celebration of the classic cocktail, but also a statement of Gleneagles' commitment to creativity and sustainability. By using waste and non-prime parts of produce, the bar team has created an extraordinary cocktail menu that showcases the diversity of botanicals and their origins.

The menu's hero serve is the Juniper Martini. 

To showcase how the different varieties of juniper can enhance the taste of this ultimate classic, the team partnered with South Loch Distillery in Edinburgh to create three bespoke gins, each using only one botanical - juniper. 

In addition to the Martini, the Book of Berries menu boasts a range of exciting cocktails, such as Blueberry, which uses Gleneagles’ Garden Café blueberry muffins to create a vodka-based cocktail, and Avocado, which incorporates leftover avocado seeds to create an orgeat, which is then combined with white rum and Amaro to make a Mai Tai-style cocktail. 

Another standout cocktail is Banana, which uses leftover peels that are caramelised to infuse bourbon, creating the ultimate twist on a classic Old Fashioned.

Gleneagles Hotel's Century Bar, designed by David Collins Studio, is a masterpiece of artistry and sophistication, inspired by the changing seasons of Scotland. The bar's elegant interiors feature garnet red as the central theme, with locally sourced accents that pay homage to the country's rich heritage. By day, the bar is the perfect spot to rendezvous with family and friends over coffee or a bite to eat. By night, the Century Bar transforms into an alluring space where guests can indulge in a glass of champagne or a rare malt whisky from Scotland's finest collection.

At the Century Bar, where a journey of flavour awaits, the menu features four categories of cocktails, each with its distinct style and essence. 

The Great Adventure Book menu seeks to celebrate the contrasting landscape of Scottish countryside, split into four sections The Lochs, The Seas, The Forests, and The Glens.The menu dives into a wild and beautiful world of the great outdoors, encouraging guests to embark on their next big adventure. Though for those who would prefer less adventure and more sipping, a ‘Too Long Didn't Read’ summary is a perfect place to pick the tipple from. Visit the Century Bar and indulge in a full sensory experience that's wild, beautiful and uniquely Scottish.

Burns, if her were alive today, would surely choose to sit and take in all the opulent surroundings as he wrote his wit and wisdom. 

IRN-BRU WANTS YOU IF YOU’VE EVER BEEN GHOSTED

HAVE you ever been ghosted because if you have, IRN-BRU wants to hear from you in time for Halloween…

Scotland’s dating scene is being haunted by the spread of ghosting with two thirds of Scots having experienced the phenomenon, according to new research by Scotland’s other national drink and  there's no better time than October to vanquish this horror.

 

To rid the nation's ghosts, theshowbizlion.com’s favourite fizz has summoned Dan Harry, star of BBC Three’s landmark gay dating show 'I KISSED A BOY', as their very own 'Ghost Bru-ster' to host the ultimate Bru-themed dating night - and for the first time ever, only those who have been on the receiving end of someone cutting off all contact with no explanation are invited.

 

The term 'ghosting' is relatively new in the dating world - and refers to a potential relationship ending when someone stops replying to messages without giving the other person any warning for doing so and disappears. 

 

Dan Harry said: "Heartache shouldn't haunt anyone's Halloween so I'm reaching out to spirited singles who have been ghosted to guide them to resurrect their love lives. Together with IRN-BRU we want to hear your ghost(ed) stories to get the chance to exorcise those dating demons and maybe even find a kindred spirit.

 

“I’ll be on hand to pair up potential matches, helping to banish any would-be ghosts this Halloween.”

 

A spooky study by IRN-BRU shows two thirds of the nation's Gen Zs reporting the supernatural experience while looking for love, with 16-percent being ghosted more than three times in the last year. Something which might also cause a fright is 58% owning up to ghosting someone, for reasons as ridiculous as getting the ick from long nails, noisy eating or overusing emojis.

 

The research found that while 59% of Gen Z are frequent users of dating apps, a whopping 94% voiced they’re eager to swap swiping for real life link-ups but 48% are spooked at the thought of asking someone on a date IRL, so IRN-BRU’s Ghost BRU-ster is here to take away the awkwardness and help give offline encounters a go. 

 

Bringing a BRU-nique twist to Halloween, IRN-BRU is teaming up with Glasgow’s El Perro Negro to host the ultimate halloween party for ghosted daters. The restaurant will be transformed into an enchanting dating night like no other, with tricks and treats, including an IRN-BRU inspired menu and cocktail selection.  IRN-BRU pulled pork sliders will be served up alongside veggie deep fried haggis with BRU sauce and Ghost BRU-ster Dan will also be on hand to play cupid in an enchanting venue which will be fizzing with eerie surprises.

 

Dan wants to hear the nation's spookiest 'ghosting' stories. Anyone who shares a tale of how their potential new boo suddenly left them on read could be lucky enough to receive an invitation for them and their pal to attend IRN-BRU's Ghost BRU-sters event on Halloween night.

Kenny Nicholson, Head of Brand at IRN-BRU said: “We know ghosting is a big red flag for young people and that finding that spellbinding match can feel a little like the graveyard shift. So this Halloween, our Ghost BRU-ster event is on hand to turn the hunt for that special someone from a chiller into a thriller.”

 

To share ghost(ed) stories, singletons should visit IRN-BRU’s Instagram or TikTok channels.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH STAR RETURNS TO EDINBURGH FESTIVAL

SABRINA the Teenage Witch star Aunt Hilda herself is headed to Edinburgh for the famous Fringe festival. 

 Canadian actress and stand-up comedian Caroline Rhea who has attended the fest in previous years has announces a brand new Fringe show at Gilded Balloon - 'I Identify As A Witch'.

 Best known for hit roles which also include  Phineas and Ferb, Caroline will perform a limited run from 15th - 18th August, at Gilded Balloon Teviot from 8.45pm with a show filled with comedy, improv and star-studded Hollywood tales. 

With 5 star reviews the last time Caroline played the Festival in 2013, the Hollywood star's four night run is sure to be unmissable, especially for fans of cult classic Sabrina the Teenage Witch where she made her name as Aunt Hilda for seven years or as Linda Flynn Fletcher on Phineas and Ferb for over 10 seasons. 

The stand-up comedian has also had numerous comedy specials on Comedy Central, HBO and Showtime, marking 30 years as a comic. 

Caroline Rhea said, "Hi, it’s me, Caroline Rhea. I’m thrilled to return to Scotland, my part-time childhood home, and not just because it’s the only place you can get tablet and no salad. 

Yes, you know me as Aunt Hilda on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and I’ve been a standup comedian for 34 years. I’m here to do my new show, “I Identify as a Witch” because at this point I seriously do, so does my 14 year old daughter. My new show covers everything from parenting a teenager to dating (it’s super fun at this age), outrageous stories of life in Hollywood like when I met Taylor Swift, and a lot of improv."

Don't miss Caroline Rhea : I Identify As A Witch at Gilded Balloon Teviot, 15th - 18th August from 8.45pm. 

Tickets via tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/event/14:5014/

NEIGHBOURS STARS IN SCOTLAND TRY TUNNOCKS AND IRN BRU

NEIGHBOURS stars Stefan Dennis and April

Rose Pengilly tucked into Irn Bru and Tunnocks teacakes while Alan Fletcher explored Oran Mor during a trip to Scotland. 

The Neighbours cast visited Glasgow and Edinburgh as part of their Celebration Tour which had initially been organised to mark the end of Neighbours being broadcast in the UK - before it was saved by Amazon. 

And they were on top form as they told of their love of Scotland and mingled with lifelong fans of the show.

The cast, who were staying at the Hilton Glasgow hotel over the weekend, spent most of their time at the city’s Armadillo for meet and greets and the show but some managed to go for a walk in the morning during the cold spell. 

Dr Karl Kennedy, played by Alan Fletcher was accompanied by his wife Jennifer Hansen as he took a stroll in the West end - visiting Oran Mor where he is due perform music from his new album next month. He also visited Bannermans in Edinburgh where he will also tour. 

As he had a drink with his wife at the Glasgow Hilton bar after the show he told the Daily Record: “I can’t wait for you to be Neighbours with me again when the new season starts. I got my first taste of snow here in Glasgow with my wife. We are having the time of our lives thanks to all the wonderful Neighbours fans surrounding us with their love of our show.”

Stefan Dennis who plays Paul Robinson and April Rose Pengilly who is Chloe Brennan on the show tried out some of our Scottish delicacies. 

Stefan, who used to live here with his wife, while starring in River City said it was great to be back in Scotland - his other home. 

As Stefan put on his Weegie accent and told her the correct pronunciation, April pulled a face and said: “So everybody’s been telling me to drink this Irn Bru.  It’s good. It kind of just tastes like fizzy. It’s alright. Now we’re going to try these Tunnocks tea cakes which we actually have in Australia.  I just didn’t know they were a thing. That gets the thumbs up. I like that better than the Irn Bru.” 

April said of her trip to Glasgow that it was ‘more like GlasWOAH’ and that she had had an excellent night. 

She had also visited a chihuahua cafe in Edinburgh and said it was ‘a dream come true.’

Annie Jones who plays plain Jane Harris also admitted her trip to Scotland was the first time she saw snow, commenting: “It’s snow out there - so exciting. It’s the first time I’ve seen it. I did a happy dance.”

LOVE ISLAND PAIGE TURLEY EMERGENCY OP AFTER HEALTH SCARE

PAIGE Turley has revealed she had to have a mole removed after concerning results came back after a routine health check. 
The Love Island winner who rose to victory in 2020 with her partner and now longterm boyfriend Finley Tapp, had initially taken a routine health test in January.
Both she and former footballer Finn were promoting Pall Mall Medical services online and visited their premises to get a health check carried out as part of their Insta stories. 
However, a few weeks ago, Manchester based Paige, 25, received a message saying she’d have to undergo some further tests - and now she has revealed to her viewers online that medical staff found something that needed further exploration following a CT scan. 

Paige showed herself sitting with a doctor as they went through her results and also shared images of herself on a medical bed as she lifted the top on her left side ahead of the procedure. 
She revealed: “Thanks so much for the messages send wishes after my CT scan guys. After another followup appt getting a mole removed results have come with little to worry about.”
She added: ”If you're concerned about your moles or skin lesions, you can book an appointment at @pallmallmedical with one of their specialist Dermatologists. 
The assessment will take up to 30 minutes to perform a full visual examination on up to 3 moles or skin lesions with dermoscopy to look deeper if needed!”

Paige spent some time in hospital in May 2022 and at the time also posted an image of herself on her hospital bed following minor surgery. 

LEWIS CAPALDI GETS HIS FOURTH NUMBER ONE SINGLE

LEWIS Capaldi has done it again as the Scots born global superstar  today scores his fourth UK number 1 single with ‘Pointless’, equalling the likes of Whitney Houston, Cher, Jay-Z, One Direction, Pharrell, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Busted, B*Witched & Pet Shop Boys.

Theshowbizlion.com has followed Lewis since the early days of his singing life and ‘Pointless’ follows his previous three number 1’s inSomeone You Loved (2019), Before You Go (2020), and Forget Me (2022), and is the second single from his upcoming second studio album Broken By Desire To Be Heavenly Sent - out May 19th on EMI Records.

"Thank you so much if you have streamed, downloaded or listened to ‘Pointless’ in any way, it really means a lot.” says Lewis. “This is my fourth UK Number 1, I now have the same amount of Number 1s as B*Witched, so pretty f*cking good if you ask me! I know there's a cost of living crisis, so thank you for spending your money on my music."

Lewis recently performed the new ballad at this year's Strictly Come Dancing semi-finals show HERE, and on The Graham Norton Show.

‘Pointless’ arrives as one of his earliest compositions for the new album, written on the first day with Steve Mac. With Snow Patrol’s Johnny McDaid also on the session, the trio were working on one song (“which hasn’t made the cut”) when Lewis’ collaborators mentioned a verse they’d previously begun writing with Ed Sheeran. 

Recently, Capaldi was announced as one of the headliners for Reading & Leeds Festival 2023, as well as unveiling his biggest outdoor headline summer shows to date in Manchester, Edinburgh & Belfast . The announcements came after he sold out his upcoming 2023 UK arena tour in seconds, which kicks off this Saturday in Leeds. The overwhelming demand for him doesn’t stop there, recently being crowned the ‘King Of Streaming’ with his global hit single ‘Someone You Loved’ becoming the UK’s most streamed song of ALL TIME.

If his first album made him an international star, with his second it’s nothing less than superstardom that beckons. His return has shown that the insatiable appetite for Capaldi burns as bright as ever.

JANUARY
Sat 14th                                     Leeds, First Direct ArenaSOLD OUT

Mon 16th                                  Sheffield, Utilita ArenaSOLD OUT

Wed 18th                                  Manchester, AO ArenaSOLD OUT

Thu 19th                                    Liverpool, M&S Bank ArenaSOLD OUT

Sat 21st                                      Newcastle, Utilita ArenaSOLD OUT

Mon 23                                       Aberdeen, P&J LiveSOLD OUT

Tue 24th                                    Glasgow, OVO HydroSOLD OUT

Thu 26th                                    Birmingham, Utilita ArenaSOLD OUT

Fri 27th                                       Nottingham, Motorpoint Arena                          SOLD OUT

Sun 29th                                    Belfast, SSE ArenaSOLD OUT

Mon 30th                                  Dublin, 3ArenaSOLD OUT

FEBRUARY 

Wed 1st                                     Cardiff, International ArenaSOLD OUT

Thu 2nd                                      Exeter, Westpoint ArenaSOLD OUT

AUGUST
Fri 25th                                       Manchester, Wythenshawe Park                        ON-SALE FRI 20^TH JAN

SEPTEMBER
Fri 1st                                          Edinburgh, Royal Highland Centre                      ON-SALE FRI 20^TH JAN

Sun 3rd                                       Belfast, Vital FestivalON-SALE FRI 20^TH JAN

Pre-Order Broken By Desire To Be Heavenly Sent HERE. More info at https://shop.lewiscapaldi.com

x5 Top 10 Singles & x4 Number 1’s
‘Someone You Loved’ The UK’s Biggest Streamed Song Of ALL TIME

Biggest Selling UK Album Of Both 2019 & 2020
Longest Running Consecutive Weeks In Top 10 UK Album Chart For Solo Artist Album (77 Weeks)
‘Someone You Loved’ More Weeks In Top 10 Than Any Song EVER By British Act
Biggest Selling Single Of 2019 
Biggest Streamed Week 1 Debut Album Of All Time
x2 BRIT Award Winner & GRAMMY™️ Nominee
x5 UK Official Top 10 Singles including 2 x UK Official Number 1 Singles
x5 Billboard Top 10 Singles including Number 1 Single 'Someone You Loved'
x5 Consecutive No 1 US Radio Airplay Singles ('Someone You Loved' & 'Before You Go')
Over 25 Billion Worldwide Streams

ROD STEWART CHEERS WITH DELIGHT AT CELTIC BABY NEWS

ROD Stewart cheered with delight as he announced his daughter Ruby was expecting a baby boy and even made up a jingle on the spot to welcome the new addition to the family.
Maggie May rocker Sir Rod was given the honours of revealing the gender as Ruby told her followers on social media of the good news she and her other half Jake Kalick had for 2023.

As the family gathered round, Sir Rod could be seen reading from a piece of paper after opening the envelope from the hospital and he was delighted as he fist pumped the air and referenced his favourite football team as he said: “Its a boy. Mon the Celtic.”
Beaming from ear to ear, he then showed off the announcement on paper and sang a new naughty tune entitled: “Another winkle in the Stewart family.”
Ruby who is the daughter of Sir Rod and his ex girlfriend, the model Kelly Emberg, and Jake moved in together six weeks after they met during the beginning of the lockdown period.

Jake is co founder of cookware company Made- In.
The good news came following the recent death of Ruby’s uncles Donny and Bob.
Ruby urged her followers: “Hire Sir Rod Stewart for your gender reveal! He’ll even write a custom jungle for your unborn child!”
As she posted up a video of her black and white scan, she wrote: “Out of all of the things that happened in 2022 you were by far the most beautiful...We can't wait to meet you..Baby boy Kalick coming in April…”

Amongst those to congratulate her were her half sister Kimberley who wrote: “Def has the Stewart nose.”
Rod’s current wife Penny Lancaster added: “Can't wait to meet him.”
And his second wife Rachel Hunter added: “You are going to be an incredible Mum.”
Rod’s first wife Alana Stewart added: “How wonderful! So happy for you.”

ROBBIE WILLIAMS GLASGOW REVIEW AS LOVE AFFAIR WITH SCOTLAND CONTINUES

LET Me Entertain You sang Robbie as he romped around the stage of Glasgow’s Ovo Hydro in his glittering gold lame and sequin suit - and he never failed. 

We didn’t need to be reminded as he told the audience: “Allow me to reintroduce myself. I’m Robbie f***ing Williams.”

Robbie and Scotland share a special affinity. 

He later told us: “There is something about you lot up here, something different.” 

The prodigal son has filled stadiums like Hampden and festivals like T in the Park with his showmanship, touring both solo and with Take That, celebrating his birthday here at the now defunct Strawberry Fields and launching his fashion range at Fraser’s in previous years. 

The crowd love him and he loved us. 

Whether he was strutting, sitting  on his stool or cavorting on stage, we got all that Robbie Williams could give. 

Anthems like Kids and I Love My Life were delivered with aplomb while childlike graphics were projected from the screen, and Rock Dj showcased Robbie’s rapping. 

The huge pair of Angel wings for the final song saw an emotional Robbie singing in a kimono style gown as the audience joined in.

Embracing the saltire was the perfect end to a perfect evening from the master. 

Robbie himself said afterwards: “Glasgow you never disappoint me. That was incredible.”

SCOTTISH INFLUENCER AWARDS SHORTLIST OF SOCIAL MEDIA STARS

The first ever SCOTTISH INFLUENCER AWARDS  takes place this Sunday with a who’s who of Scotland’s social stars. 

The major new awards ceremony which  is being held at Glasgow’s Radisson Red hotel will be announcing the winners following the it’s shortlist of nominees in the running to be named the country’s Influencer of the Year this weekend.

The 75-strong shortlist of nominees, across fifteen categories, will represent the country’s diverse and far-reaching spectrum of social media excellence, in a real life gathering this Sunday afternoon.  

BBC Radio 1 presenter and broadcaster Arielle Free will host the inaugural Scottish Influencer Awards at the city’s Radisson RED Glasgow this Sunday 23rd October, 2022 between 2pm and 4pm, with organisers promising major levels of lights, cameras, action, and Scotland’s biggest social media stars in attendance.

A headline VisitScotland: Year of Stories - Influencer of the Year award will honour the country’s mostdistinct and original storytelling around the Year of Stories 2022 theme, while other Influencer of the Year award presentations will recognise excellence in the categories of Food, Drink, Health & Wellbeing, Family and Lifestyle, as well as Travel, Interiors & Design, Arts & Culture, Style, Beauty and Visual. A special award will honour those influencers whosesocial defines Inspiration.

A Superinfluencer award will be presented to Scotland’s biggest social media star, Emily Shak. The accolade is in recognition of Emily’s formidable commitment in creating a social profile which consistently exudes style, digital creativity, transparency and positive engagement with her international community of over 1.5 million dedicated followers.

A surprise grand finale announcement on Sunday will reveal one individual who has made such a truly inspirational impact across their social media…and will be named Scotland’s overall Influencer of the Year for 2022/2023.  

Each winner will receive a covetable and 100% sustainable art-collectable sculpture by renowned Argyll design innovators Midton, plus a magnum of Whispering Angel.

A panel of illustrious judges including Michelin Star UNALOME Chef Patron Graeme Cheevers, Creative Director and Designer Iona Crawford, international beauty gurus Marc Elrick and Dylan Brittain, CEO and Co-Founder of Future Beauty Labs, and a four-member VisitScotland Themed Years team including Amanda Thomas, Global Influencer Marketing Manager, have undertaken the difficult task of choosing the finalists from thousands of entries received.

Flashbulbs will pop as guests on the day - after walking the Graypaul Ferrari Glasgow red carpet - arrive to a dramatic digital photo wall; a truly insta-worthy moment.

 

A reception presented in celebration with Whispering Angel; the world’s most glamorous rosé,will welcome the influencer cognoscenti thereafter.

The much-anticipated awards ceremony hosted by Arielle Free and supported by sponsors Moet Hennessy, Laings and Overgate, will follow.

The SCOTTISH INFLUENCER AWARDS celebrations will continue in style into the evening at a hot-ticket Whispering Angel Official After Party with Special Guests Illyus & Barrientos.

There’s still some tickets on sale for the much anticipated event  at £45 per person which include red carpet arrivals, Whispering Angel reception, awards ceremony with Arielle Free and Whispering Angel Official After Party with Illyus & Barrientos. Available via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/scottish-influencer-awards-tickets-390972608597

 

SCOTTISH INFLUENCER AWARDSNOMINEES

SUPERINFLUENCER

@emilyshak – Emily Shakarji

 

VISITSCOTLAND: YEAR OF STORIES - INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR 

@andythehighlander – Andrew McAlindon – 273k

Scottish actor, charismatic tour guide and highlander.

@scotlands_stories – Graeme Johncock and Molly the Lab – 63k

A man and his dog exploring Scotland’s extraordinary stories.

@myprettycotland – Sayra Perkins – 84k

Scottish wanderings through Edinburgh, mostly looking up.

@traveltwo_ - Tom and Laura – 118k

Exploring the great outdoors, Guide to Scotland’s East Coast

@mylittleedinburgh – Zoe Stewart – 290k

Come a wee wander with this rain-loving, tea-drinking creator of beautiful content.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR - FOOD

@hebrideanbaker - Coinneach MacLeod – 76k

Traditional family recipes reimagined and wee stories from the Scottish islands.

 

@rebeccacooks_ - Rebecca Gerrard – 11.5k

 

A sustainability-focussed celebration of Plot life with top tips for beginners and delicious recipes.

 

@hey_renu – Renu Bhardwaj – 36k

Imaginative and inspiring food waste recipes and delicious vegetarian cooking reels.

 

@scotlandedit – Sonya Walos – 8k

Indulgent but easy to follow food recipes with a strongseasonal focus presented in exceptionally slick, aspirational and beautiful reels.

 

@sarahrankincooks – Sarah Rankin – 5k

Face-stuffing, belly-filling glorious gluttony by Masterchef 2022 finalist.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – DRINK

@beerhooligans – Beer Hooligans – 2.5k

Five-strong team willing to fight for those epic brews.

@onthesauceagain - Inka Larissa – 23k

Glassware obsessed whisky enthusiast, co-founder of @whiskysisters podcast.

@scottishmixology - Jack Jamieson – 38k

Inspired cocktail recipes and dreamy reels with a tartan twist, home bartender.

@liquidgoldie – Liquid Goldie – 7k

Sipping and mixing on a cool insta-worthy grid with quirky #soundtrackmyfriendsdrink challenge.

@withgrape - Tabitha Watson – 4k

Wine consultant, advisor and Grape Goddess.

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – HEALTH & WELLBEING

@bodyby_amy – Amy Hill – 9k

Personal trainer, fluent in BSL, healthy life lessons, and honest conversations about being a CODA.

@beccamariawatson – Becca Watson – 10k

Wellness and positive mindset messaging delivered in high quality reels to 125k Youtube subscribers.

@caldamac – Calum MacLean – 24k

Wild swimming enthusiast, challenger to sea monsters, champion of Gaelic language, presenter.

@frazermcglinchey – Frazer McGlinchey – 3k

Vibesmith, mindfulness meditation teacher, creator, yogi, bibliophile, pal, lover of kindness.

@ronamcmillan – Rona McMillan – 11.5k

Exciting, empowering adventures, soaking up nature, with the slickest of reels and most stylish grid.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR - FAMILY

@catqb – Cat Cubie – 15k

Family blogger, published author and host of award-winning podcast @thesleepmums.

@coleandabbie – Cole & Abbie – 2.9 million

Fun, informative, honest family stories, and journey through IVF, to 2.9 million TikTok followers.

@a_mothers_tale – Emma O’Donnell – 54k

Keeping it real, wholesome family stories with charmingimagery and chatty interactions.

@winging_mamahood - Jasmine McInnes – 34k

Family fun, cooking demos and recipes, kids clothing reels, and things to do on a budget.

@mylittlewildlings - Zoe Stewart – 76k

Gorgeous profile celebrating the ordinary magic of everyday motherhood with four super cute kids.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – TRAVEL

@ontheroadagaintravels – Ashley McAfee & StuartConway – 30k

Engaging, well-soundtracked reels and informative Places to Visit in Scotland eight-part series.

@alittlebitofclaire - Claire Ferguson – 24k

Heavy on character, low on carbon footprint travels. Also runs the wonderful @honestlyscotland, devoted to Scotland’s best honesty boxes.

@marisa.vogiatzi – Maria Vogiatzi – 13k

Digital nomad, budget travelling Scotland and the world solo on public transport.

@megbeaudry – Meg Beaudry – 11k

Canadian ex pat exploring the best of Scotland, story series including Epic Scottish Filming Locations, Seven Reasons Why You Need To Visit, 24 Hours In…

@theweewhitedug – Samantha Grant – 51k

Harris Tweed-wearing dandy dug, castle lover, hiker, lover of treats.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – LIFESTYLE

@amybell – Amy Bell – 146k

Glamorous, humorous stories to make your heart sing.

@the.lifestyle.hunter – Gemma Hunter – 39.5k

Fashion, food and life by the seaside.

@theeverydayman - John Robertson – 25k

Dynamic curated mix of all things fashion, fitness, travel, culture and honest product reviews. Also runs The Everyday Man, the UK’s leading online magazine for men.

@blublazerguy – Scott McGlashan – 8k

The go-to digital creator for aspirational travel, skincare and lifestyle. Also @blublazerguy_fragrances; serving up Face with Fragrance.

@thankfifi – Wendy Gilmour – 21.6k

Scottish style menagerie of fashion, interiors and travel. Daily outfits @thankfifiwears.

 

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – INTERIORS & DESIGN

@annacampbelljones – Anna Campbell-Jones – 19.5k

Charismatic interior designer and Homes of the Year presenter, bringing interiors and design into the mainstream national conversation.

@casalawson – Alex Lawson – 221k

Empowering others to try DIY, sharing all thing power tools, styling and making a house a home. Grand Designs Live speaker.

@formandbalance – Emma Carberry – 11.5k

Telling stories through thoughtful design, beautiful objects. Slow renovation with a dose of reality.

@ourkelvinsidecorner - Stuart McCondichie & Roger Campbell – 7.2k

Two men, one 1880s Glasgow renovation. Dreamy period revamps and design empowerment.

@homewiththemarks - Mark Strachan – 24k

Documenting the renovation of Mark's grandparents house in Aberdeenshire. Started 2017.

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – ARTS & CULTURE

@clydebuiltradio – Andrew Thomson and Claudia Ioana Vasiliu – 11.5k

 

Bringing Glasgow to the world, from a broadcasting home in The Barras.

 

@scotlandhistorytours - Bruce Fummey – 153k

 

Unique History of Scotland storytelling from Bruce’s Scottish perspective, to an audience of 153k YouTube subscribers.

 

@edinbugh_jazz - Fiona Alexander – 4.5k

 

Producer of world class jazz and blues festival with inclusive, accessibly priced streaming focus and strong digital and social engagement.

 

@glasgowist – Paul Trainer – 26.6k

The best people and places in Glasgow, filtered. Wandering aimlessly with intent, bringing fast news on events and trends.

@thebrawandthebravepodcast - Lisa Kennedy – 3.8k

A podcast about people and their passions. Lisa blethering to #brawbrave humans who do what they love.

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – STYLE

@carolinestylehacks – Caroline Cook – 115k

Champion of considered fashion, sustainable labels, pre-loved style and indie boutiques. 

@louisahatt - Louisa Hatt – 14k

Curated style must-haves in slick reels by this former international fashion model.

@jillyisabella - Jilly Isabella Cross – 114k

Youthful, fun and engaging style content with original and creative twists across reels. 

@shaunamcgregor - Shauna McGregor – 12k

No fuss, hip urban cool, slacker chic style reels with hot soundtracks to match.

@thegentlemanselect – Peter Gemmell – 8k

Stylish content for men, framed within slick, aspirational photography and tasteful, minimalist reels

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR –BEAUTY

@Hannah Lou Robinson/@_sundaybest_ - Hannah Lou Robinson – 26k

Renowned Edinburgh manicurist, lover of colour, nail art, and founder of Sunday Best hand painted press on nails.

@jamiegenevieve – Jamie Genevieve – 1.4 million

Globetrotting beauty YouTuber and blogger, professional artist to the stars, founder of vegan Vieve cosmetic range, devoted army of fans. 

 

@mmaddiehill – Maddie Hill – 500k

20 year old Orcadian, sharing her astonishingly creative makeovers and content to half a million highly engaged followers in a refreshing youthful style. Content creator for BBC Social.

 

@baby.skin - Ruby Rose Harrigan – 24k

Skincare reels, beauty tutorials, honest product reviews, safe tanning, self care.

 

@sarahillmakeup - Sara Hill – 81k

Celebrity makeup artist with an international reach. The go-to for international red carpet premieres, magazine covers and global runway shows. Loves Glowing Skin.

 

 

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR – VISUAL

@artpistol – Art Pistol – 3.5k

Art gallery nailing the ‘gram with the UK’s most progressive emerging and mid career artists.  

@franmart – Fran Mart – 194k

Exquisite, moody, quintessentially Scottish images by this Spanish observer and photographer based in rural Scotland.

@jessicarosebird – jessrosebird – 15.5k

Artist and award-winning fashion illustrator with clients including Harrods, Armani, Samsung, M&S, Edition Hotels and WeTransfer.

@openclosedundee – Open Close Dundee – 3.6k

Local artists brightening up the streets, alleyways and forgotten corners of Dundee with street art.

@whimsicallush – Suzanne Scott – 7k

Illustrator, artist, storyteller, inky adventurer operating under the name of WhimSicAL LusH with works found on Dundee’s Discovery Walk, Oor Wullie’s Bucket Trail and Ninewells Hospital Children’s Operating Theatre.

INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR - INSPIRATION

@graemes91 – Graeme Sutherland – 337k

A heartwarming and heartbreaking openconversation, led by Graeme on Tiktok, on living with his mother’s Alzheimer’s and the devastating impacts of the illness.

@lesswastelaura / @lesswastewarriors - Laura Young – 52k

Climate activist, environmental scientist, sustainability and ethical influencer using the power of social to help save the environment.

@jojofraser – JoJo Fraser

Podcaster, vlogger, motivational speaker and author smashing the stigma around mental health.

@refuweegee - Selina Hales – 26k

Founder of community-led charity welcoming people in true Weegie style with upbeat and engaging reels highlighting Selina and her team’s work.

@weareherescot – Ica Headlam – 4k

Founder of a dedicated social space supporting and raising the voices of Black People and People of Colour creatives, with digital #ScotlandBites podcast.