Scottish stars join forces to support students hardest hit by COVID-19
Line of Duty actor Martin Compston and music legend Midge Ure are coming together for a special event to support students at Glasgow Caledonian University who have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The online event, ‘When Martin met Midge’, will be live via Zoom and will see the duo share stories from their careers to date, speaking for the first time about Martin’s portrayal of Midge in the comedy drama Urban Myths, as well as sharing what has inspired their commitment to supporting a variety of charitable causes.
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic over a year ago, many students have struggled to support themselves and many more are anxious about the longer-term impacts. The extent of this was highlighted by recent research by the National Union of Students (NUS) who reported over 60% of students have seen an impact on their income and over 80% are now concerned about their future prospects.
The event, being organised by the GCU Foundation will be on Tuesday, April 27, from 6pm to 7.15pm. Tickets are now available with a suggested donation of £20 - or donate what you can - in support of the University’s Common Good Campaign. Attendees will have the opportunity to propose a question for Midge and Martin when booking a ticket.
Martin and Midge are both Honorary Graduates of GCU.
The Common Good Campaign was launched with the backing of Sir Alex Ferguson CBE and is raising financial and in-kind support to aid students with no access to income or family support, as well as providing guidance, support and mentorship for final-year students and new graduates connecting them to business leaders and alumni. Nearly 700 students and new graduates have already received support. All funds raised will help alleviate financial pressures through student bursaries and provide match funded internship opportunities to boost employability.
Speaking ahead of the event, Martin said: “I am looking forward to being back at Glasgow Caledonian University virtually. Midge is just such a likeable guy it’ll be great to chat to him about how our careers have crossed paths, and even better that by doing so we can help to make a difference to students who are struggling right now.
Looking forward to the event, Midge said: “It’s been a tough time for students. Many have lost jobs, and for many more thinking about what the future holds can feel overwhelming at this time. So I am delighted to join forces with Martin to help raise awareness for the Campaign that is providing financial assistance as well as practical support for students and new graduates.
Professor Pamela Gillies, CBE, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “It’s fantastic that Midge and Martin are supporting GCU’s Common Good Campaign to help our students who’ve been hardest hit by the pandemic. They are both superstars who are down to earth, great fun and who have real empathy for our students at this time.”
Jillian Watt, Director of the GCU Foundation, said: “This will be a fascinating encounter, I know Martin and Midge get on really well and have a lot in common. And it’s also great that people can enjoy it from the comfort of their own home. I would urge everyone to book their place, enjoy a great event, and help raise money for a very good cause.”
To book a ticket please visit gcu.ac.uk/martinandmidge