Tag: Sport

Fans heading to Euro 2024 in Germany warned of new travel rules

As Euro 2024 approaches, excitement is building among UK football fans planning to visit Germany for the tournament. However, post-Brexit travel rules and potential additional costs are crucial considerations for UK travellers.

Travel experts from Football Ticket Pad, delve into the key aspects UK fans need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Passport Validity and Visas

Since Brexit, UK passports must meet specific criteria for travel within the Schengen Area, including Germany:

Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return.

Issue Date: Passports older than 10 years, even with validity remaining, might not be accepted.

For stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period, UK citizens do not require visas for tourism, including attending sports events. However, keep an eye on any changes in visa policy as the event draws closer.

ETIAS Requirement (Expected from 2024)

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by 2024. UK citizens may need to apply for this pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The process involves a small fee and is completed online.

Health and Travel Insurance

With the UK no longer part of the EU, European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) issued in the UK are not valid. It’s vital to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage. Failure to have appropriate insurance might result in significant costs if medical care is needed.

Roaming Charges and Connectivity

Since Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming within the EU no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your provider for specific roaming policies and consider purchasing a local SIM card in Germany for cost-effective data and calls.

Driving in Germany

If you plan to drive:

International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on the type of UK licence you have, you may need an IDP.

Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your vehicle insurance covers travel in Germany.

Emission Stickers: Some German cities require an emissions sticker to drive in certain areas.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Laws

Understanding local customs and laws can help avoid unintentional disrespect or fines:

Recycling Laws: Germany has strict recycling laws. Improper disposal of waste can result in fines.

Public Behaviour: Disorderly behaviour, especially in public spaces, is frowned upon and can attract penalties.

Managing Costs and Budgeting

Currency Exchange: Remember, Germany uses the Euro. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider using travel cards to manage currency exchange fees.

Accommodation and Travel: Book NOW, to secure better rates. Consider alternative accommodations like hostels or Airbnb.

Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

Emergency Numbers: Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts. In Germany, 112 is the emergency number.

Language: While many Germans speak English, learning basic German phrases can enhance your experience.

Event Tickets and Local Transport: Ensure your event tickets are booked in advance and research local transport options.

James O’Leary, from Football Ticket Pad says: “While the post-Brexit era has brought changes to travelling from the UK to EU countries like Germany, with adequate preparation and awareness of the new rules and potential costs, UK fans can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience at Euro 2024.

“Remember, the key to a smooth trip lies in planning ahead and staying informed!”

Musselburgh’s New Year’s Day racing heading for sell-out

Racegoers urged get on the front foot or risk missing out

THE UK’S leading racecourse is urging First Footers to get on the front foot if they want to secure their place at one of the most exciting days on the Scottish horse racing calendar.

Musselburgh Racecourse, recently named Champion Racecourse by its racing industry peers, reports that tickets are selling fast for its Tote New Year’s Day Meeting, signposting another potential 6,000 sell-out event.

The East Lothian track is pulling out the stops to make 1 January a day to remember with a Golden Ticket hunt featuring 24 top prizes, a Best Dressed Dog contest, and on the turf six thrilling jumps races with prize money of over £100,000.

Famous for its fashionable atmosphere, this event also invites New Year Day revellers to dress to impress and participate in the inaugural Style Awards hosted in partnership with Scottish fashion boutique, Tiger Lily Boutique.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We’re making this year’s event the biggest we’ve put on yet, with a host of thrilling competitions that could see some people win big.

“We’re excited about all of the fun aspects of the day, such as our best-dressed dog contest. I’m looking forward to seeing all the imaginative and wonderful outfits that our guests come up with for their furry friends.

“The Festive Luxe Domes have made a return this year which are always a hit, adding an extra layer of festive fun for racegoers who are lucky enough to bag one.

“I know everyone is just as excited as we are to see everyone well-dressed and having the time of their lives as they kick off 2024 with us.”

The New Year’s Day fixture is one of the most prestigious in Musselburgh’s jumps calendar, attracting top horses, jockeys, and trainers alike, and boasting huge prize money to match.

At £40,000, the most valuable race on the card is the ‘Auld Reekie’ Handicap Chase.

Last year’s winner was Minella Drama, ridden by champion jockey Brian Hughes and trained by Donald McCain.

The £30,000 Hair of The Dog Handicap Hurdle, also over a similar distance, was recently won by Benson, trained by Sandy Thomson, ridden by Ryan Mania, and owned by Dundee United director Jimmy Fyffe.

“First Footer” bus services – which have to be booked in advance – will ferry racegoers to and from the racecourse leaving from Penicuik, Dalkeith, Galashiels, Gorebridge, Dunbar, Haddington, and Edinburgh, ensuring easy transport to and from the East Lothian venue.

Additionally, attendees can experience the vibrant Highland Fling Marquee, with Scotland’s renowned ceilidh band, ‘Kilter’, delivering an electrifying performance to keep the energy high throughout the day.

Aisling added: “This year our Golden Ticket hunt will return, and we’ll be offering 24 hidden prizes around the venue. Those who come down to the racecourse will have the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

“We’ve been blown away by the response to the event so far and I’d urge anyone who is considering attending to grab tickets while you can and bring your family and friends too as it will be a fantastic day.”

Racegoers can enjoy a selection of Scotland’s finest street food, including offerings from Bonnie Burrito, Cheese on Coast, and special boozy hot chocolates.

Adult tickets are priced at £40 when booked online in advance, and entry is free for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult.

Gates open at 10.30 am, the first race is at 12.35 pm and the last race at 3.30 pm (subject to change) more information is available here:

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures

Those planning on attending the Tote New Year’s Day Meeting are encouraged to book their tickets quickly to avoid disappointment. To get a £5 discount per person, bookings must be made before midnight on December 31st.

Musselburgh hosts 25 race days annually and its ‘Sensational 6’ key race days include New Year’s Day, the bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend, Easter Saturday, The Edinburgh Cup, Ladies Day, and The Summer Finale weekend.

For further information on New Year’s Day and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/new-years-day-1-1-24

Dogs sport iconic colours ahead of Edinburgh derby

They don’t care what side you support!

As football fans across the city look forward to the Edinburgh Derby tonight on the 27th December, the four-legged residents of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home have donned both teams’ colours. They don’t mind who you support, they would just love to watch by your side.

In 2023, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has seen a record number of requests to surrender pets or access support from their pet foodbanks.

Getting in the matchday spirit, Alfie a 4-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat, Copper a 7-month-old German Shorthaired Pointer, Peter a 12-year-old Lurcher, Lily and Daisy 1.5-year-old Jack Russel x Poodles, and finally Reggie and Ronnie a pair of 8-year-old Jack Russels, have been sporting the famous colours of both Edinburgh teams.

Lindsay Fyffe Jardine, CEO of the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “We know how much football means to people across Scotland, ahead of the Edinburgh Derby we wanted to highlight that our residents who are looking for a new home, don’t care who you support, they just want to be by your side.

“This year we have seen a record number of surrender requests as well as a significant increase in the need for pet food bank support. Winter is especially difficult for us, and we are extremely grateful to anyone who can donate towards our winter appeal, or able to give a pet a loving home.”

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home finds winter an especially difficult season as higher costs drain funds while demand for their vital services increases.

They recently launched a Winter Appeal, seeking donations to enable the Home to cope with the increased demand, continue providing vital support to animals in need and help people to keep their beloved pets at home.

To make a donation and to read more of their life-altering stories please visit: 

www.edch.org.uk/winterappeal 

OR text SURRENDER to 70560 to donate £5.

Sarah Boyack ‘disappointed’ in Edinburgh City FC’s decision to scrap women’s team

Lothian Labour MSP Sarah Boyack has expressed her deep disappointment in Edinburgh City FC’s decision to scrap their women’s team and their development teams.

This decision follows weeks of financial turbulence for the team.

Ms Boyack has expressed her dismay that the burden of stabilising the club’s finances has fallen on the Women’s Team.

It will be a huge blow on the drive to get women more represented in sport.

The team have indicated that they hoped this decision would be temporary but have provided no timeline for when the teams may be reinstated.

Commenting on the decision, Sarah Boyack said: “I am extremely disappointed by Edinburgh City FC’s decision to scrap their women and development team.

“I acknowledge the financial difficulties of the team but at a time when women’s football is finally getting the audience it deserves, to scrap the Women’s Team sends entirely the wrong message.

“We should be doing more to encourage women into football and sports more generally.

“Women’s’ teams represent the best opportunity to showcase the talented female footballers we have here in Scotland.

“If Edinburgh City FC are serious about this being a temporary decision, they need to lay out a clear timetable for when the Women’s and Development teams will be restored.”

Musselburgh: Just Champion!

Local Racecourse gallops off with top award

Musselburgh Racecourse has been named as the Champion Racecourse at the 12th annual Racecourse Association (RCA) Showcase Awards.

The East Lothian track picked up three individual awards enroute to being named as the overall Champion for 2023 – the Racing Post Readers’ Award and the Marketing and Food & Beverage awards.

The Racing Post Readers’ Award asked the racing public to nominate their favourite racecourse based on raceday experience, customer service and value for money. Musselburgh scored the highest average across these metrics and polled almost 20% of the overall votes.

Musselburgh’s continued drive for excellence in Food & Beverage was evident in the Pinkie’s Deli, a Taste of Scotland’s Larder initiative. A move to more a locally-sourced and evidence-based menu was a resounding success with racegoers, with the racecourse seen as best-in-class throughout British racing for its fantastic food and drink offerings.

As a highly successful one-off event in 2019, the Corgi Derby returned to Musselburgh and this time was integral to a campaign which won the Marketing category.

Musselburgh’s use of data to target specific demographics and tailor the messaging, ticket packages and raceday experience was deemed best-in-class by the judges with the results clearly showing a hugely impressive return.

The East Lothian racecourse was also a Finalist in two other categories on the night, demonstrating a racecourse operating to the highest standards on multiple fronts, said the judges.

Musselburgh Racecourse General Manager Bill Farnsworth, said: “Musselburgh’s joins a small group of eight illustrious Showcase Champions and it certainly felt as if all the other racecourses represented at the Awards were particularly pleased that Musselburgh had won.

“I am incredibly proud of the team here at Musselburgh who have shown incredible resilience over the past few years and have been resolute in their commitment to the racecourse and to putting on a fantastic experience for our customers and participants.

“The staff at Musselburgh never stand still and are totally committed to making sure all our visitors have the best possible ‘Musselburgh’ experience. To deliver on so many levels with limited resources is a truly fantastic achievement and we can all be extremely proud of what Musselburgh has achieved.”

The gala event, held at Aintree Racecourse, was presented by the RCA and partnered by Great British Racing, Racing Together, the Racing Foundation and Racing Post.

Alongside Musselburgh’s three award wins and Champion crown, it was a fantastic night for Scottish Racing as a whole with wins for Hamilton Park, Perth and Ayr, while Kelso received a Highly Commended accolade from the independent judging panel.

RCA Chairman Wilf Walsh said: “Our class of 2023 represents a range of racecourses operating at the highest level in their respective fields and I am encouraged by the levels of innovation shown as we look to attract and retain racegoers.

“Musselburgh Racecourse are worthy Champions and join our esteemed Showcase list. With five Finalist nominations and three victories, there can be little doubt this is a racecourse team that deeply cares about their customers, participants and place within the local community.”

Musselburgh is back in action tomorrow (Thursday 30 November) with The Max Recycle Saltire Raceday. Gates open 10.30am and the first race is at 11.55am.

For more information and to book tickets visit here.

Inaugural Scottish Building Society Festival kicks-off with over 100 players

The first ever Scottish Building Society Festival took place this weekend with over 100 players competing in the event which celebrates inclusive rugby.  

The festival brought together five clubs from across Scotland to play in a tournament, for all ages and abilities.  

Edinburgh Inclusive Rugby Team, Fife Clan, Borders Clan, Strathmore Clan and Ayrshire Clan all played in a round-robin tournament. 

Inclusive Rugby involves both able bodied players and those with a physical or learning disability, playing in one unified outfit. 

Scottish Building Society, as the primary partner of Edinburgh Rugby, hosted the festival at Hive Stadium with the players also being invited along to the Edinburgh Rugby v Connacht match that same evening. 

Paul Denton, CEO of Scottish Building Society said: “When we became the main partners with Edinburgh Rugby, we wanted to use our platform to create more opportunities for people to get involved in rugby. 

“The festival was born from this value, and it was incredibly encouraging to have over 100 players come along and play in our first festival celebrating inclusive rugby.

“Rugby is a sport for everyone and using our platform we want to create more opportunities to make the game more accessible and inspire more people to get involved.  

“Our hope is that people see this festival and for next year we can get even more players along to celebrate inclusiveness and the sport we love.” 

Edinburgh Rugby Community Manager, Ruaridh Pye said: “It was a hugely inspiring day hosting the first ever Scottish Building Society Festival here at Hive Stadium.  

“Five clubs from across Scotland coming together to celebrate what rugby means is very special and we hope it will inspire those interested in rugby that this is truly a sport for everyone. 

“It was such a heartwarming day, and having the players come out at half time of our match against Connacht and receive the cheers from the crowd was a special moment.” 

Snooker’s Biggest Stars Set For Edinburgh

All-time greats including John Higgins, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump and Mark Selby, as well as World Champion Luca Brecel and defending champion Gary Wilson, will be among the field when snooker’s BetVictor Scottish Open takes place in Edinburgh next month.

The third event in this season’s BetVictor Home Nations Series will run from December 11 to 17 at the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh, as 80 players battle for the Stephen Hendry Trophy.

Tickets from just £15 are on sale now but must be booked fast – for details visit www.wst.tv/tickets

The top 16 seeds will be in action on the opening day on Monday December 11th and the match schedule is:

10am session

Gary Wilson v Elliot Slessor

Mark Selby v Sean O’Sullivan

Ding Junhui v David Grace

Jimmy Robertson v Amaan Iqbal

Not before 1pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan v Liam Graham

Mark Williams v Sam Craigie

Barry Hawkins v Pang Junxu

Ali Carter v Zehuang Long

Not before 2pm

Luca Brecel v Iulian Boiko

Shaun Murphy v Liu Hongyu

Hossein Vafaei v Daniel Wells

Jack Borwick v Ishpreet Singh Chadha

Not before 7pm

Judd Trump v Sydney Wilson

Kyren Wilson v Mostafa Dorgham

Robert Milkins v Mark Davis

Anthony McGill v Oliver Lines

Not before 8pm

John Higgins v Oliver Brown

Mark Allen v Jamie Jones

Jack Lisowski v Mohamed Ibrahim

Alfie Burden v Matthew Selt

Get tickets booked fast! For the full draw and match schedule visit www.wst.tv

Scottish sport backs ‘Don’t be that guy’ campaign

Scottish football joins Scottish Rugby in backing Police Scotland’s That Guy sexual crime prevention campaign

The That Guy Scotland campaign is highlighting the positive role sport can play in encouraging men to speak out against behaviours that can lead to sexual offending.

SPFL and Scottish Rugby are helping men join the conversation and be part of the solution:

Football fans will see the campaign featuring at the Viaplay Cup semi-finals at Hampden this weekend, when Hibs take on Aberdeen, and Hearts face Rangers.

The Scottish Professional Football League is backing the campaign for the first time, joining long-time supporters like Scottish Rugby.

This latest phase of the award-winning That Guy campaign focuses on the positive role sport can play in influencing men’s attitudes and encouraging them to speak out against behaviours that can lead to sexual offending.

Social media influencers will share advice on how men can get off the sidelines and safely challenge inappropriate banter and behaviour that makes women feel unsafe.

Assistant Chief Constable Bex Smith, Police Scotland said: “Not all men are a threat to women, but all men have the opportunity to help tackle the attitudes and actions that make women feel unsafe in everyday life.

“Banter and other behaviours that are abusive or derogatory towards women can seem harmless in the changing room or on a night out with friends, but these behaviours are rooted in male entitlement, and if left untackled, could lead to offending.

“It’s up to men to take action, step in, have a word with a friend and stop sexual offending before it starts.”

Calum Beattie, chief operating officer for the SPFL, said: “Football’s position as Scotland’s national sport enables it to play a uniquely positive and influential role in society.

“A number of SPFL clubs have previously participated in ‘That Guy’ and we’re proud to lend our further support to this award-winning and important campaign.

“We look forward to helping tens of thousands of supporters to learn more about its important message during the Viaplay Cup semifinals.”

A spokesperson for Scottish Rugby said: “We’ve been proud to work with Police Scotland and host workshops for our men’s and women’s players at international, pro-team and Academy levels, where we have explored the importance of their sexual crime prevention campaign.

“We’re determined to share the drive for male allyship, whether through big screen and match programme messaging at Scotland international matches, or, our next step, through taking the campaign directly out to clubs, so that it can be shared across communities.”

This stage of Police Scotland’s That Guy campaign launched on Monday, 30 October 2023 and will run throughout November.

New content will be published on www.that-guy.co.uk and social media channels: 

Twitter/X: @ThatGuyScotland

Instagram: @thatguyscotland

Edinburgh’s young people encouraged to try cricket with support from local school

A free community cricket programme is giving young people from Edinburgh’s disadvantaged communities a safe space to play cricket and learn life skills.

The Wicketz programme was established to help break down the barriers faced by 8 to 19-year-olds living in areas with high levels of deprivation, through cricket. It was founded by the Lord’s Taverners charity, which exists to empower young people facing the challenges of inequality. Wicketz also aims to develop vital life skills for its participants by delivering workshops that focus on social issues most relevant to the areas each Wicketz project is delivered in.

On 16 and 23 October 2023, Fettes College provided its sports hall to the Edinburgh Wicketz project which enabled participants to take part in their first ever hard ball cricket sessions. Over the two days, 33 young people took part in the training.

The sessions, which are delivered by Cricket Scotland, allow young people of any gender to learn the key skills of cricket and give the game a go. The sessions combine cricket coaching and competition with workshops that are specially designed to improve the participants’ wellbeing, life skills and social integration.

Mohammad Afzal, Edinburgh Wicketz Development Officer, said: “We are so grateful to Fettes College for loaning us its fantastic sports hall for the Edinburgh sessions. It was amazing to be able to give the participants the opportunity to use the sports facilities Fettes has and to encourage more people to get involved in the sport.

“Cricket can serve as a valuable tool for educating young people on physical fitness, teamwork and communications skills, as well as improving character development and allowing for personal growth, helping young people build life skills that will serve them well in various aspects of their lives.

“The impact of Wicketz has been immense in Edinburgh.”

Mark Appleson, Director of Sport at Fettes College said: “We were pleased to host the Wicketz programme’s first ever hard-ball cricket sessions over the last couple of weeks.

“What the programme does for underprivileged children across the UK is incredible, and provides them with an outlet to learn new skills, make friends and improve their wellbeing. It was great to see people taking part and having fun.”

Colin Crichton, Chair of the Lord’s Taverners in Scotland said: “Everyone involved in the Lord’s Taverners in Scotland thank the College for its support and speed in implementing the opportunity to use their incredible facilities.

“This has been a wonderful opportunity for Edinburgh’s Wicketz participants to play the game in an environment they would not normally be able to access.”

Wicketz sessions take place weekly in Edinburgh, with the third hub launching in early 2024. To find out how to get involved, visit:

 www.lordstaverners.org/programme-information/edinburgh-wicketz/.

Community football at Bangholm

HIBERNIAN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION at TRINITY HUB

This week we are launching our Trinity hub – we are running lots of activities that you can get involved in!

Check out the flyer (above) to see where you can attend

Follow this link to sign up or email samanthaw@hiberniancf.org …https://hibs-community-foundation.classforkids.io