Coatbridge is one of the largest towns on the outskirts of Glasgow and has produced an impressive array of talent over the years.
While the town rose to prominence during the Industrial Revolution, evidence shows the area was settled long before the Romans arrived. Archaeological finds date back as far as the Mesolithic Age, around 3,000 years ago, including a circle of Bronze Age coffins discovered at Drumpellier Estate in 1852.
The name Coatbridge comes from a bridge that once carried the old Edinburgh–Glasgow road over the Gartsherrie Burn, at what is now Coatbridge Cross. The settlement first appeared on a 1755 survey as “Cottbrig,” one of several locations on the wider Coats Estate. The name “Coats” is thought to derive from the Scots word cot(t), meaning “cottage,” though another theory links it to the Colt family, who owned land in the area as early as the 13th century.
By the late 18th century, Coatbridge had grown from a loose collection of hamlets into a defined town. Its rapid development was closely tied to the technological advances and industrial expansion of the era.
Here are some of the famous faces who started off in Coatbridge, including musicians, actors, and footballers.
1. Greg and Pat Kane (Hue and Cry)
Brothers Greg and Pat Kane who are better known as Hue and Cry were both brought up in Coatbridge and attended St. Ambrose High School. | Getty Images
2. Frank Gallagher
River City star Frank Gallagher who plays the character of gangster Lenny Murdoch was born and grew up in Coatbridge as one of five children. He attended St Monica's Primary School in the town. | BBC
3. Fran and Anna
Glasgow Pavilion favourites Fran and Anna were two sisters from Coatbridge. | North Lanarkshire Council
4. George Graham
Former Arsenal manager George Graham was born as the youngest of seven children at Dykehead Road in Bargeddie. He remains one of the most successful managers in Arsenal's history having won two first division titles, one FA Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1994. | Getty Images