Image: BBC Press
By Jon Donnis
Broadcaster Amy Irons will be leading BBC Scotland's Hogmanay celebrations this New Year's Eve, hosting the highly anticipated countdown to 2025. This will be Irons' debut as the face of BBC Scotland's Hogmanay, and she is bringing with her a lineup that combines music, tradition, and Scottish pride for an unforgettable night. Known for her engaging presence on radio and television, Amy Irons expressed her excitement about taking on the role, saying it was an honor to follow in the footsteps of previous hosts and to be a part of Scotland's most iconic night.
To welcome 2025 in true Scottish style, the show will feature performances from some of Scotland's best-loved musicians. Legendary singer Marti Pellow, best known as the lead vocalist of Wet Wet Wet, will be taking the stage, alongside Skipinnish, the traditional Celtic folk band cherished for their lively tunes and Scottish spirit. Joining them is Scottish country folk artist Rianne Downey, whose soulful voice adds a contemporary folk flair to the evening. As midnight approaches, the traditional singing of "Auld Lang Syne" will be led by Skipinnish with a special twist this year, as they will be joined by jazz vocalist Georgia Cécile, blending jazz and folk in a fresh rendition of the New Year's classic.
As the clock nears midnight, the broadcast will cut live to Edinburgh, where the countdown to "The Bells" will take place. In keeping with tradition, the Lone Piper will play from Edinburgh Castle's ramparts, marking the last moments of the year. At the stroke of midnight, the historic Mons Meg cannon will fire, followed by a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the Edinburgh skyline, providing a breathtaking start to 2025.
Earlier in the evening, comedian and broadcaster Des Clarke will set the festive mood with his show, The Not Quite End of Year Show, on the BBC Scotland channel. Known for his humor and quick wit, Clarke will take audiences on a lighthearted look back at some of Scotland's most memorable moments of 2024. Joined by special guests, he'll be reflecting on the highs, lows, and everything in between, offering a fun lead-up to the main Hogmanay celebration.
This Hogmanay celebration showcases BBC Scotland's commitment to bringing the best of Scottish talent and culture to audiences across the nation. Steve Allen, Commissioning Executive at BBC Scotland, expressed his excitement for this year's festivities, stating that Hogmanay is a unique time for Scotland to come together, and that Amy Irons and Des Clarke are the perfect hosts to lead the nation into the new year.
BBC Scotland's Hogmanay celebrations promise a lively mix of music, humor, and tradition, capturing the spirit of Scotland and welcoming 2025 with pride. For those looking to be part of the live audience, tickets to the show's recording are now available through a ballot on the BBC Shows and Tours website. With a blend of beloved traditions, entertainment, and vibrant performances, this Hogmanay promises to be a night to remember, bringing Scots together to ring in the New Year.
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