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.
5. Jamie Quinn
Two Doors Down star Jamie Quinn (left) grew up in Coatbridge. Readers may also recognise him from appearing in Still Game. | BBC
6. Dean Ford
Former Marmalade frontman Dean Ford grew up in Coatbridge with there being a dedicated bench at Whifflet Park, near where he grew up. Photo: TSPL
7. Alan Frew
Alan Frew was born in Coatbridge in November 1956. The Glass Tiger lead singer moved to Newmarket, Ontario with his family when he was 16 years old. | Getty Images
8. Mark Millar
Scottish comic book writer Mark Millar who is best known for The Authority, Marvel Knights Spider-Man and The Ultimates was born in Coatbridge on Christmas Eve in 1969. He grew up in the towns Townhead area and attended St Ambrose High School. | Wiki Comms