On 28 May, Scotland will host its first Patient Access Seminar, a landmark event exploring how patients in Scotland gain access to innovative medicines in Scotland.

Taking place at the DoubleTree Hilton hotel, the event will delve into the unique approach, processes and pathways enabling Scottish patients to access vital, innovative medicines at fair prices.

Hosted by AXIS, a firm of reimbursement experts in partnership with the Ethical Medicines Industry Group (EMIG), the event will bring together businesses from the Scottish patient access ecosystem. The seminar is intended to highlight the specific processes that make access to medicines easier, and will create opportunities to develop a deeper understanding of the different perspectives of those involved in supporting access of medicines to patients.

This unique event will provide an open platform to foster meaningful dialogue and identify practical solutions that can enhance healthcare outcomes in Scotland.
“At the heart of this conference is mutual recognition and collaboration,” said Brenda Dooley, Chief Executive at AXIS and Managing Secretariat of EMIG Scotland. “This event is about finding common ground, focusing on the strides Scotland has taken to maximise access and doing more of that to ensure patients are at the heart of decision making across the stakeholder community.

Exploring Scotland’s healthcare landscape

The Patient Access Seminar will spotlight the specific strengths of the Scottish system since the publication of the Montgomery report almost 10 years ago – including the Patient and Clinician Engagement (PACE) process and Ultra-Orphan Medicine Pathway facilitating early access to new orphan drugs.

While recognising the challenges around expediting access to new treatments – Scotland was ranked twelfth for availability to new medicines in the latest EFPIA Patients W.A.I.T Indicator Report – this event will focus on the innovative approaches and schemes Scotland has taken to support equitable access to promising new medicines, heralding the nation as an example for other countries to follow.

Scotland’s first Patient Access Seminar will feature two expert-led panel discussions with several keynote speakers, addressing topics such as the role of research and evidence generation, access routes to medicines treating rare diseases, the impact of the PACE approach, and the evolution of the Scottish healthcare system.

Speakers include prominent figures shaping the Scottish healthcare landscape, such as Professor Alison Strath, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for the Scottish Government, Sir Michael Ferguson, Regius Professor of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee, Dr Jane Haley, MBE, Director of Research, MND Scotland and Henry Simmons, Chief Executive, Alzheimer’s Scotland. Crucially, the patient voice, delivered through Patient Groups and individuals themselves, will be given the chance to share their views and experiences.

By sharing expert insights alongside personal accounts, the event aims to capture the human impact of industry processes and help bridge the gap between policy and practice to ensure patients are at the heart of decision-making across all stakeholders.

A catalyst for change

Brenda Dooley emphasised the importance of collaboration, and said: “Scotland has the potential to lead the way in early patient access. But to do so, we need to focus on what works well in the system and do more of it – patients are counting on us all.”

The seminar aligns with Scotland’s commitment to advancing healthcare innovation while recognising the economic realities of healthcare funding. By shining a light on solutions like streamlined reimbursement processes and enhanced communication among stakeholders, it aims to deliver actionable strategies for overcoming existing barriers.

This event is free of charge and will run from 10 am to 4 pm on 28 May at the DoubleTree by Hilton at Edinburgh Airport.

Police are appealing for help tracing Kirsty Herriot, who has been reported missing from Edinburgh.

The 45-year-old was last seen on Harvesters Way, Wester Hailes, around 4.20pm on Monday, 19 May, 2025.

She is described as being around 5ft 8in in height, with long red hair, believed to be in a bun. She was wearing an all black outfit, with black fluffy sliders, black glasses and a cross body bag.

Inspector Alison Lawrie said: “Our enquiries to trace Kirsty are ongoing and I am appealing to anyone who has seen Kirsty or who has any information on her whereabouts to contact us.

“We know she was on Harvesters Way around 4.20pm and may have walked towards the Plaza Shopping Centre but her whereabouts after that are unknown.”

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help is asked to call 101, quoting reference 2301 of 19 May, 2025.

Police are appealing for help to trace James Campbell, who has been reported missing.

The 82-year-old is from Broughty Ferry and left his home address around 6pm on Sunday, 18 May, 2025 with the intention of walking on the West Highland Way.

Personal items belonging to him were found at Mugdock Country Park near Milngavie during the morning of Monday, 19 May and he was then reported missing.

He has not been seen since leaving his home but he is believed to be travelling using his car – a blue Honda Jazz, registration SP62 XAX – which was subsequently seen on the A7 Old Dalkeith Road near to Danderhall in Midlothian shortly after 2.40pm on Monday, 19 May.

He is described as white, 5ft 4in tall and of stocky build with grey or white hair and a beard.

He was last known to be wearing a blue fleece and trousers. He may have been carrying a black rucksack.

Inspector Phil McIntosh said: “We are working to establish James’s movements since he left home and would urge anyone who may have seen him or his car at any time since Sunday evening to get in touch urgently.

“Anyone who thinks they may be able to help is asked to call 101, quoting reference 0823 of 19 May, 2025.”

Fort Kinnaird is on the hunt to find Edinburgh’s biggest Stitch fan ahead of the new Lilo & Stitch live action film coming to cinemas later this week on 21 May.

To celebrate the film launch, the centre is giving away the ultimate VIP screening experience at ODEON, complete with six free cinema tickets alongside a huge bundle of Stitch themed goodies, including soft toys, puzzles, and colouring supplies from retailers such as Primark, Smyths Toys and The Works – all worth more than £150.

Fans of all ages are encouraged to enter – it is no secret that the Disney character has been a firm favourite since the original film was released 13 years ago in 2002, with themed clothing, accessories and homeware proving popular with shoppers.

To enter, fans of the loveable fictional character need to send their full name and a short description on what makes them the biggest Stitch fan to LiloandStitchFortKinnaird@citypress.co.uk by Monday 26th May. Parents or guardians of anyone under the age of 18 looking to take part will need to enter on their behalf.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know many Lilo & Stitch fans are counting down the days to the new movie, with many set to head to the cinema on the opening weekend. To celebrate, it only seems fitting for us to find the ultimate Stitch superfan and treat them to a range of new Lilo & Stitch themed goodies, alongside a day out at the centre. Whether you can quote every line or just adore his mischievous charm, we want to hear from you!”

Terms and conditions are here.

Cricket Scotland and Toyota have announced a new, multi-year partnership which will see the car manufacturer become Official Automotive Partner to the sport’s governing body.

In its new role Toyota commits to supporting the men’s and women’s national teams alongside investing in initiatives to help foster the growth of grassroots participation across Scotland.

The deal comes ahead of the Scotland men’s national team featuring in two home series against Netherlands and Nepal in June, followed by the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in July.

A key focus element will be promoting grass roots participation through “All Stars Cricket” which is designed to introduce five to eight-year-old children to the sport.

This investment will see Toyota fund 200 free bursary places each yea  focused on growing state school access to the All-Stars programme, as well as supporting children at Additional Support Needs centres, making the game more accessible.

In addition to the bursaries Toyota’s dealerships will play a supporting role in growing All Stars Cricket within local communities, encouraging sign-ups to the programme.

Toyota are also preparing to launch its “Good For Cricket” prize draw with an aim of helping clubs raise £500,000 this year for vital equipment and resources, contributing with a bespoke platform and marketing materials plus a prize pool in year one valued at more than £200,000 to support their fundraising efforts.

The draw adapts a model successfully deployed in Australia where the Toyota “Good For Cricket” initiative has brought in the equivalent of more than £5.6 million over the past 12 years.

Clubs can sign up to take part in the prize draw free of charge and will be allocated digital tickets for supporters to purchase. Each ticket sold will give the holder the chance to win from more than 50 prizes on offer, including three brand new Toyota vehicles. Participating clubs will receive all the proceeds from the tickets they sell.

This partnership comes as Toyota also announces a new, multi-year partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Ireland.

Trudy Lindblade Chief Executive of Cricket Scotland said: “It is extremely important and hugely exciting for us to have the opportunity to work with a globally recognised brand that is keen to help us drive the sport forward here in Scotland.

Scott Thompson, President and Managing Director at Toyota said: “We can help support and inspire both the current and next generation of players, volunteers and fans who make cricket happen.”

A century-old East Lothian boarding school has lodged plans to enclose its outdoor swimming pool to provide year round access for its pupils.

Belhaven Hill School, in Dunbar, says its heated outdoor pool, on its campus is a popular part of its outdoor education but only used during summer terms and part of autumn with youngsters travelling to local pools the rest of the year.

Now it hopes to create a new cover which will allow it to be used all year round alongside changing facilities for its students.

Plans for the changes to the swimming pool have been lodged with East Lothian Council’s planners.

The school says the proposals involve the refurbishment of the existing pool along with a covered enclosure to provide year round opportunities for swimming.

It says: “This enclosure will be built against a new single storey
building housing changing facilities and a plant room.”

Belhaven Hill School is a private preparatory school with boarding and day pupils ranging from P1 to S1 ages.

It celebrated its 100th anniversary in the town two years ago and boasts one of the biggest prep music departments in the UK. However it says its outdoor pool is a highlight for pupils.

The school says the pool is in constant use during summer and the first half of autumn terms as part of its Physical Education curriculum.

It adds: “The school takes part in a number of competitive swimming galas over the course of the year but a highlight of the swimming year at Belhaven Hill is the internal Belhaven Hill Swimming Gala and Diving Cup.

“Every pupil in the school has the opportunity to take part in time trials and diving heats with the whole school providing an audience for the finals.”

The plans have been lodged with planners and are available to view on the council’s online planning portal.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

The operator of Edinburgh’s tram network has launched its new payment solution, ‘Tap on, Tap off’ or TOTO, which is now live in the capital.

The first customers using the new system rode the tram this morning, after tapping a contactless card or device on the existing platform validators. This marks a significant step forward for the operator, allowing more seamless bus and tram travel in the city thanks to partnerships with Edinburgh Trams’ sister company, Lothian, and facilitated by payment provider Flowbird. 

Lea Harrison, Managing Director of Edinburgh Trams, said: “The launch of ToTo today comes today following months of hard work from colleagues across the business, and would not be possible without significant investment in existing infrastructure. We believe that ToTo future-proofs the tramway, making it easier and more efficient than ever to use the tram to glide across the city.”

Lea was joined for the official launch this morning by David Thompson, General Manager-Transport for Flowbird, Lothian Buses’ Head of Product Strategy Stevie Chambers, and the City of Edinburgh Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Mandy Watt.

David Thompson said: “At Flowbird, we’re proud of our partnership with Edinburgh Trams, alongside Lothian Buses, in developing and delivering Scotland’s first multimodal, multi-operator account-based ticketing system.  Edinburgh is a true ‘world’ city and so it is fitting that its people, along with millions of visitors, should benefit from technology that makes travel on the tram and bus network seamless, easy to use and cost effective. By doing so, we encourage a modal shift to more sustainable transport and help to make cities more liveable.”

Deputy Council Leader, Councillor Mandy Watt said: “I’m delighted to have attended the launch of the new ToTo system today. I really enjoyed meeting colleagues from Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses to hear about the new system and see the first journeys being made. This key development reinforces our integrated, seamless, and accessible public transport network here in Edinburgh, which is the backbone of any major city. It’s fair to say that when it comes to our public transport network, we punch well above our weight compared with similar cities.

“In addition to existing tickets, travel across our trams and buses will now be even easier and more convenient than ever with ticket prices automatically capped at the cheapest daily and weekly rate for those using ToTo. Our excellent public transport system is an inclusive form of travel – it provides an alternative to car use especially for people on lower incomes or with mobility issues. Low carbon travel is also a cornerstone of our wider climate ambitions and I’m sure that ToTo will encourage greater use.

“I’m proud of the part the Council has played in delivering this milestone and commit to working with our transport operators to deliver yet more improvements to our public transport network. 

“I have no doubt that many millions of journeys in the coming months will be made using the new system and everyone involved has my sincere thanks. We’re committed to keeping Edinburgh moving and ToTo is a very welcome addition to the transport landscape.”

Reminder to tap off

Customers are reminded that, unlike on Lothian Bus services, they are required to ‘Tap off’ when they leave the tram, in order to complete their journey and be charged the correct fare. If the same card or device is not used to Tap off, the journey is registered as incomplete, and customers will be charged the full Airport Zone fare of £7.90. 

This system works alongside Lothian Buses’ existing TapTapCap system to cap bus and tram travel across the city at the Cap rate, aligning Edinburgh Trams with services offered by its sister company.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Lothian Buses said: “Lothian is delighted to work with Edinburgh Trams to further enhance our TapTapCap solution which now offers integrated payment for journeys across the city’s bus and tram network. 

“The introduction of daily and weekly capping across both modes will ensure that customers using the same card or device can always benefit from the cheapest Pay As You Go fare regardless of how their travel plans might change.”

Customers who benefit from existing concession cards or use a Ridacard should continue to use these as before and aren’t required to tap off to end their journey. Each contactless card or device can only be used for one standard Adult fare – customers travelling in groups or with children should still use the ticket vending machines on platforms or the Bus & Tram App or Edinburgh Ticket to pre-purchase their tickets. 

Click here for additional information about ‘Tap on, Tap off’ – FAQs and terms of use. 

Derek McInnes sat on the podium behind a microphone-filled desk in the spacious Gorgie Suite bereft of match-day decoration and he hoped the excitement he was experiencing at being appointed head coach at Hearts shone through.

The former Aberdeen boss talked at length, voicing phrases fans want to hear like winning silverware, making cup finals, challenging in the Premiership top six and qualifying for Europe on a regular basis.

Basically, the 53-year-old wants to harness the undoubted power of Tynecastle fan base. They want to win silverware and so does McInnes.

The former Greenock Morton, Rangers, West Bromwich Albion and Dundee United player believes Hearts have a jump on other teams in the 12-strong division as they harness the backing of Jamestown Analytics, vociferous support on the terracing and also in the backroom staff to achieve.

Yes, the Paisley-born coach comes in after a disappointing past season for the ambitious Jambos, who finished seventh in the table, but McInnes said his appointment is for the future and he spoke about having quality in the current playing staff.

Naturally, the twice capped McInnes wants to supplement that and the work starts here. In-depth talks are planned with Hearts’ sporting director, Graeme Jones, as work starts to build a side which teams hate to play, particularly at Tynecastle.

McInnes told the packed media conference the was “absolutely delighted” to be confirmed as the new head coach and he declared: “The opportunity to manage Hearts was everything I wanted. It is a club I always wanted to manage. It is a good fit.

“Hopefully, I can give them (the club) what they want. The intention is to try and deliver silverware and sustained success on the pitch and to just be the biggest animal we can be.”

He is also determined to meet the expectation that is there from everybody in Gorgie and said: “I have managed before at a similar sized club at Aberdeen and there are similar expectations. I feel there is so much going for us here at Tynecastle and at Hearts that I have real excitement at being the guy to take it on.

“There is a structure there, behind us there is a support network and I feel it is something that we can really get our teeth into and deliver.”

The Paisley-born former player said he loved his time at Kilmarnock which he described as “a brilliant club”. There he made so many good friends and built relationships and there were some real highlights.

However, when Hearts’ interest was first mooted, McInnes spoke to businessman, Billy Bowie, the owner and major shareholder, at Rugby Park. He told Bowie that he did not want to leave Rugby Park until the club was safe from relegation from the Premiership, but he did intimate that the interest from the Capital club was something he was keen to explore.

He added: “For me, it is all about the new start with Hearts. For me and my family, this is what I wanted and here we are. It is all about trying to move forward now. I feel as though I can get everything I want from the job.”

Initially, he wants to deliver what is expected, what the Hearts support expect from the team, and then, in time, exceeding those expectations and he declared that a solid support network as a manager is vitally important.

Jamestown Analytics, a world-leader in football player and head coach data, gives Hearts, he said, an added advantage over other teams.

But McInnes cautioned: “That support network is brilliant as long as you utilise it to its maximum. They (the data) will help me build the squad and I will build the team and it is up to me deliver on the pitch.

“It is about players ultimately. I want to work with good players and the club’s relationship with Jamestown can help us get more good players into the club. Ask any manager, you just want to work with good players.”

Ultimately, it is all about trying to get players to perform on a daily basis and McInnes believes he can get the most out of squad.

Hearts, he declared, do have advantages over others, the support, the stadium, the infrastructure, the budget which is afforded to the manager, and it is important to utilise that to the maximum.

He stressed: “With those advantages, we have got to work more effectively and we have got to have a togetherness and be able to tap into the support we have.

“It does not come automatically, and it is important that everybody at Tynecastle realises that. We are going to have to work for everything we get and it is up to me to drive those standards and set the pace.”

Earlier, Andrew McKinlay, Hearts’ chief executive, thanked interim manager, Liam Fox, for his efforts after taking over from Neil Critchley, sacked after the 1-0 home defeat to Dundee in the first match in the second phase of the league, and he told the media pack: “Welcome to Tynecastle for the dawning of a new era at the club.

“I want to say a few thanks to a few people who thoroughly deserve it. Firstly, thanks to Liam Fox for expertly guided us through what was a precarious situation and all at the club wish Liam all the very best as he moves on to the next stage in his career.”

He also thanked Kilmarnock FC for their co-operation in the recruitment process and he also thanked colleague Graham Jones who led the process professionally and expertly led us to where the club are today, appointing a new head coach.

McKinlay also wanted to put on record his thanks to Gary Locke, who played for and managed Hearts and Kilmarnock, as well as Raith Rovers, for what he termed “his invaluable insight and input” into the process of acquiring McInnes.

As the manager left the podium before speaking directly to print media he spotted my green jersey. He declared: “The wrong colour.” An eye for detail, and small details count.

Hearts fans will hope that the newcomer will use that attribute to pilot their club to great things in the future.

PICTURE: Derek McInnes at the press conference at Tynecastle. Picture courtesy of Heart of Midlothian FC    

A West Lothian entrepreneur has been getting ready to scale the world’s highest free-standing mountain – by walking the Pentland Hills. 

Broxburn businessman John Keogh, who has provided more than 300 all-weather coats free of charge to rough sleepers across the country, is planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. 

Mr Keogh, who is in his mid-Sixties, has five months to get fit enough to tackle a trek that will take him 19,000 ft up the dormant volcano in Tanzania. 

And tackling one of the highest peaks in Africa will be a test of resilience not only for him but for the changing robe coat which can convert into a sleeping bag. 

“If the coat can work on the extremes of Kilimanjaro, it can work anywhere,” he said this week. 

John has been fund raising for The Ootsider since he started the Community Interest Company two years ago. 

The changing robe coats are hand-made in Scotland and sold to outdoor enthusiasts, while all net-profits from the sale go into the manufacture of the sleeping-coats to be distributed free of charge to those who live on the streets of towns and cities around the country. 

Having raised money through previous sleep out events however, he is now stepping up his efforts, with Kilimanjaro, on the northern border of Tanzania. 

After a day training in the Pentlands, he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service. “It’s a massive challenge for me but it’s not as big a challenge as rough sleepers face every day of their lives. 

“My climb is a choice,  their’s isn’t.  I’m up in the Pentlands, and I’ll come down from the hills to safety and warmth. Rough sleepers don’t. 

“The sleeping coat is not a solution, but it is a way to survive another night. Rough sleepers climb a mountain every day. let’s wrap them in warmth and humanity, not judgement.” 

As well as fund-raising, John is undertaking the grueling climb to raise awareness of the issue of rough sleeping, which he believes is a forgotten blight on society. 

John has already spoken about the Ootsider coat at local schools and at cultural, business and environmental events. 

The success of the coats has prompted John to look at the potential to develop other types of low-cost clothing which is of practical use to outdoor enthusiasts but also of potentially lifesaving benefit to those who live on the streets. 

The Kilimanjaro climb is not technically as challenging as the Himalayas or Andes, but the high elevation, low temperature and winds can make the peak a difficult trek even for seasoned climbers. 

The Ootsider has supplied coats to the City of Edinburgh council and works with charities around the country distributing the  sleeping bag coats. 

You can find out more about the work of the The Ootsider at www.theootsider.co.uk 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Edinburgh Council is planning to buy 17 homes and flats in the capital in order to tackle issues with a dangerous type of concrete in ceiling panels.

Officers have confirmed that in five buildings where the council owns homes, RAAC roof panels were used, which risk collapsing in on the structures they are a part of.

RAAC, or reinforced autoclaved air-entrained concrete, was a building material often used in the construction of publicly-owned buildings in the UK up to the 1990s.

It was popular for its low cost, low weight and fire resistance, but it can fail if it comes into contact with water for extended periods of time.

Several council primary and secondary schools are affected by RAAC, as well as the Blackhall Library, which closed temporarily until fixes could be implemented last year.

After conducting a survey, council officers found that 72 current and former council flats in the city used a certain type of RAAC roof panels, with the council still owning 44.

Private tenants at the affected properties will now be offered the option of being bought out by the council at market rate and becoming tenants, which a report by officers said would offer good value for money due to the impact the RAAC would have on their home values.

Green councillor Ben Parker asked council officer Jackie Timmons: “An obvious one, really, or a common sense question. From a safety point of view, how likely are we to see any risk come through before repairs are completed on these buildings?”

Timmons replied: “All the surveys that have been done now, there’s no critical risks. There’s been no propping, no evacuation of any residents.

“There’s high risks on some panels, and the structural engineer is quite comfortable that the work is done as soon as possible.

“We can see the panels, it’s not like they’re hidden – we can see any changes and things. The work will start quite quickly, hoping by the end of summer we’re on site.”

She also said that there would need to be some further surveys into RAAC in the affected buildings, including in common areas.

The five affected buildings include three terraced rows of six houses, and two low-rise apartment blocks.

During the works, both council and private residents of the buildings will need to be temporarily moved out.

If the council is unable to buy out the private owners in the buildings, or reach an agreement with them on works, it could use emergency powers to force them out and remediate the RAAC in their homes.

Councillors at the city’s Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work committee agreed unanimously to authorise the purchase offers.

By Joseph Sullivan Local Democracy Reporter

Hibs striker Kieron Bowie has been called up to the Scotland Men’s National Team squad for the forthcoming friendly double-header.

The Scots host Iceland at Hampden Park before making the trip to Liechtenstein, as Head Coach Steve Clarke steps up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

There’s a first call-up for Bowie, who has been a standout for Scotland’s Under-21s. He is one of seven uncapped players in the squad, with Robby McCrorie, Cieran Slicker, Connor Barron, Josh Doig, Andy Irving and Lennon Miller all aiming to pull on the Scotland jersey for the first time at senior level.

Angus Gunn returns to the squad although fellow goalkeeper Craig Gordon misses out through injury.

There is also a welcome return for Nathan Patterson, who has not featured for Scotland since March 2024. He is one of four Scottish FA JD Performance School graduates in the squad, alongside Billy Gilmour, Max Johnston and Barron.

Hearts striker James Wilson retains his place.

Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney, who sits on 49 caps, will be aiming to make his 50th appearance for his country in June.

Full squad: Angus Gunn (Norwich City), Cieran Slicker (Ipswich Town), Robby McCrorie (Kilmarnock) Josh Doig (US Sassuolo Calcio), Grant Hanley (Birmingham City), Jack Hendry (Al-Etiffaq) 
Max Johnston* (SK Sturm Graz), Scott McKenna (UD Las Palmas), Nathan Patterson* (Everton), Anthony Ralston (Celtic),Andy Robertson (Liverpool), John Souttar (Rangers), Kieran Tierney (Arsenal), Connor Barron* (Rangers), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour* (Napoli), Andy Irving (West Ham United,), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Scott McTominay (Napoli), Lennon Miller (Motherwell), Che Adams (Torino,), Kieron Bowie (Hibernian), Tommy Conway (Middlesbrough), James Wilson (Heart of Midlothian) George Hirst (Ipswich Town) 

*Denotes Scottish FA JD Performance School graduate. 

Scotland v Iceland 
International Friendly 
Friday, 6 June 2025 (7.45pm kick-off, UK time) 
Hampden Park, Glasgow 

Liechtenstein v Scotland 
International Friendly 
Monday, 9 June 2025 (5pm kick-off, UK time) 
Rheinpark Stadion, Vaduz 

Hearts have announced that Derek McInnes will take over as manager from Monday.

An experienced manager, with a proven track record of competing at the top end of the Scottish Premiership and in Europe, Derek will lead the Jambos into a new era after signing a four-year deal at Tynecastle Park.

Joining Derek at Tynecastle will be his first-team coaches Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald, as the trio make the move from Kilmarnock, subject to SFA approval.

According to a spokesperson for Hearts McInnes has had a “stellar playing career both sides of the border”. His managerial career began in 2007 when he guided St Johnstone to the top flight, and he went on to manage Bristol City, Aberdeen and Kilmarnock.

He transformed the fortunes of Aberdeen during an eight-year spell at Pittodrie. Never finishing outside of the top four in his seven full seasons, he led them to four consecutive second place finishes, reached four cup finals and won the ScottishLeague Cup.

Derek took the Dons into Europe seven years-in-a-row, narrowly missing out on the group stages aBer being edged out by the likes of Sporting Lisbon and Burnley.

At Kilmarnock, he won promo9on back into the Premiership in his first season before steering them to fourth place in 2023/24. A European run followed, and although Killie lost out to Cercle Brugge and FC Copenhagen, they did eliminate Tromso, which was the Rugby Park side’s first European two-legged tie victory in 23 years.

The spokesperson said: “A PFA Scotland Manager of the Year winner, and Scottish Football Writers’ Association Manager of the Year, Derek, along with Paul and Alan, will take Hearts forward into an exciting new era.”

Edinburgh’s Jacob Fearnley needed just 72 minutes to dispatch Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic 6-4, 6-1 and book a last 16 meeting with Australia’s Alexi Popyrin, the fifth seed, at the Geneva Open tennis today.

Fearnley hit 20 winners and his first serve percentage improved dramatically as the match unfolded against a former top 20 opponent who ultimately was simply outgunned by the strength of his Scottish rival’s ground-shots.

The win means Fearnley, up to world No 54, could go into the French Open next week as a top 50 player.

Initially it wasn’t all plain sailing though as the opening four games were all service breaks, Fearnley having opted to receive after winning the coin toss.

Momentarily living dangerously on serve towards the end of the opening set Fearnley kept composure and his clinical approach will surely be a threat to world No 25 Popyrin who needed a third set to overcome Chile’s Nicolas Jarry in his opening match.

Overall Jacob converted six out of 10 break points.

Today is the day – Tap On Tap Off

Edinburgh Trams begin a new payment system today integrating with Lothian Buses.

assengers will be able to hold their card or phone against the payment station on the platform and then do the same thing at the other end of the journey to complete payment. 

Within the City Zone the payment will be a single standard adult fare. If a passenger makes additional journeys then there is a cap of £5 each day which is the cost of a City DAY ticket. 

If you use the same method of payment for more journeys throughout the week then there is also a weekly cap of £24.50.

Any valid contactless enabled debit or credit card can be used, as well as Google & Apple Pay. Just look for the contactless symbol on your card.

You MUST tap off the tram to complete your journey, or the journey will be registered as incomplete, and you’ll be charged the full Airport Zone fare of £7.90. This will not be included in daily or weekly capping.

All the details of how to use the new payment system are here

Hibs and Hearts

Hibernian Women claimed their first SWPL title in 18 years thanks to a superb victory over Rangers at Ibrox. Read more here.

Hearts look certain to name their new manager today at a press conference this afternoon. Chief Executive of Hearts, Andrew McKinlay, confirmed that Liam Fox, who took over as the meanwhile manager after the departure of Neil Critchley, will be leaving Tynecastle at the end of the season. Mr McKinlay also said the team hoped to provide an update on the new head coach “soon”.

Look out for more news later as our Nigel Duncan will be attending the press conference.

Dalry Community Park

The graffiti in the newly completed Dalry Community Park has not yet been removed, despite assurances last month from the council.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said then: “We’re aware of the graffiti and are arranging for it to be removed. We’re also looking at installing CCTV along various sections of the new route to protect the safety of users and help to mitigate against anti-social behaviour and vandalism. 

“On a more positive note, we also plan to commission local artists in the near future to paint some murals along the route. This is an exciting project and should also help to deter against vandalism.”

Read more here.

Pride ban

Pride Edinburgh has banned any politicians from taking part in the parade next month.

The parade begins from Holyrood and progresses to The Meadows, and usually several politicians make speeches from the top of an open top Pride Bus outside The Scottish Parliament.

Now the organisers behind the Pride March have decided that politicians are no longer welcome.

The statement reads: “The organising team is alarmed by the ongoing rollback of protections and support for the transgender community, driven by those in power across both the Scottish and UK Governments and political parties.”

This follows the Supreme Court decision on the definition of a woman which is established by biological sex according to the decision handed down by Lord Hodge last month. He stressed that the law does protect transgender people against any discrimination in terms of the legislation, but some people have said that this ruling removes protection from transgender people.

For Women Scotland were successful in an appeal to the Supreme Court against the Scottish Government seeking a definition of a woman in terms of the Equality Act 2010.

The Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has said that on an interim basis their guidance is that trans women (who are biological men) may not use any women’s facilities such as changing rooms or toilets.

Pride say that none of the political parties has stood up for transgender people to protect them, but politicians supportive of equality may personally join Pride, but there must be no speeches.

Read more here.

At Dovecot

Join art historian and journalist Susan Moore on 31 May 2025 for an enlightening talk on the artist, Anne Estelle Rice. Complementing Rice’s artwork on display in Scottish Colourists: Radical Perspectives, Moore’s talk explores Rice’s life in Paris, her artistic practice, and her complex romantic relationship with JD Fergusson. Her research for an upcoming monograph on Rice has revealed a radical woman artist whose work has often been misunderstood, undervalued, or forgotten. 

BOOK NOW 

Ticket price includes entry to the talk and  The Scottish Colourists: Radical Perspectives.

Edinburgh Northern rugby club have finalised preparations for an inaugural 10-a-side international tournament at Inverleith Park on Saturday, 31 May.

The furthest travelled will be the Blues Brothers from Hungary and although listed are Cairo Old Crocks they are, in fact, described as a “melange” of Edinburghclubs.

Lining up alongside the hosts will be Puffin Gannets (North Berwick), Mackie Mammoths and Dalkeith Auldtras.

Teams will be piped on to the field by Rory and Thomas Logg, sons of the late Northern playing stalwart and in the evening the scene will switch to Edinburgh Accies nearby clubhouse for a dinner.

• Leith Rugby Club will visit Germany just prior to the start of the new season having been invited to participate in the 125th anniversary of the Victoria Linden club in Hanover. The visit takes place from Friday 22nd – to Sunday 24th August with the East Regional Leagues due to get underway a week later.

Liam Fox (pictured) remains undefeated in interim charge of Hearts since the dismissal of head coach, Neil Critchley, winning his last four games, but the former Hearts player, youth coach and first team coach, will leave the club.

Andrew McKinlay, Hearts’ chief executive, confirmed the move on the club’s official website.

He said: “I’d like to firstly thank Liam for everything he’s done for Hearts, not just during his period with the first team this season, but, also for the sterling work he did with the B Team last year.

“We asked Liam for his help with the first team and it has been plain for all to see that he did not let us down.

“Such is the way of football, change can often be on the horizon and, as we are about to embark on a new direction with regards a new head coach, we have come to the decision to start completely afresh, which means that Liam will be moving on.”

McKinlay concluded by confirming that the club hope to provide an update on the new head coach soon.

Stephen Kingsley fired home for ten-man Hearts to claim a moral boosting victory at Kilmarnock to end the Tynecastle team’s William Hill Premiership campaign on a high.

The experienced defender struck with one minute left of regular time as battling Hearts withstood pressure from the Rugby Park side despite Yan Dhanda being red carded in the first session, having to replace goalkeeper Zander Clark early on and substitute hot-stop, Ryan Fulton, struggling with a leg injury for much of the remainder of the match.

Earlier, interim manager, Liam Fox, in his last game before leaving Tynecastle, made three changes from the 2-1 victory over St Johnstone at Tynecastle on Wednesday, Zander Clark, Stephen Kingsley and Calem Nieuwenhof replacing Ryan Fulton, Craig Halkett and Jorge Grant. Kilmarnock’s interim manager, Chris Burke, also made three changes.

However, there was little to excite either set of fans in the Ayrshire sunshine in the early stages, the match having the vibe of a late season rubber with little at stake, with a number of misplaced passes  punctuating the flow.

Kyle Vassell tried to change things and he made a neat turn in midfield. He  fed Fraser Murray who drive towards goal before feeding Daniel Alexander but he fired over the top.

Murray burst into the action again but he was stopped by a heavy Adam Forrester challenge. The young Hearts defender was yellow carded.

Nieuwenhof then drove forward deep into the Killie rearguard but his initiative floundered near the penalty box before attention moved to the other end of the pitch where Clark was seen clutching an ankle. He was immediately replaced by Fulton. Time 22 minutes.

Then Frankie Kent brought down Vassell providing Killie with a chance from a free-kick 25 yards out, but ex-Hibs player Murray wasted the opportunity by blasting the ball high and wide when he should have tested Fulton.

Forrest then cut in on goal but Rugby Park goalkeeper, Robby McCrorie, gathered with Nieuwenhof lurking. At the other end, Milne fouled Armstrong who lashed the ball across the Jambos box but nobody was there to deflect the ball home.

The home side’s drummer tired hard to inject something into the game but even he failed before Yan Dhanda was involved in a challenge near the edge of the box. Stuart Findlay was injured in the incident and required treatment as VAR reviewed the situation with a potential red card against the Hearts player.

The referee was sent to the pitch side screen and Dhanda made the lonely walk back to the dressing room with less than ten minutes remaining of the first session. A harsh decision, many thought.

The card injected some enthusiasm into proceedings and brought the drummer back in action, pounding away as Hearts were awarded their first corner of the game. It came to nothing.

Ten-man Hearts continued to move the ball around, retaining possession, but the Men in Maroon had two scares before the break.

Brad Lyons fired in a strong shot from the right which whistled wide of Fulton’s right-hand post and Vassell was disappointed when he failed to get his head to an Armstrong cross from the right hand side.

Overall, Hearts had rarely been seen as an attacking threat in a disappointing first period which ended blank despite the Jambos enjoying 58 per cent of possession against 41 by the opposition. Kilmarnock, however, had six shots to the Jambos three but the visitors made 266 passes against 184 from Killie.

Findlay failed to reappear for the second half with Bruce Anderson being introduced and the substitute had a free header in the box with the first attack but sent the ball straight towards Fulton who gathered.

The pressure continued and Liam Donnelly was challenged by Nieuwenhof which resulted in a free-kick in a central position but Armstrong fired the ball straight into the Jambos wall.

Kilmarnock forced Hearts into defending with everybody behind the ball except Lawrence Shankland who cut a lonely figure up top until a breakaway found Forrest who cut in goal before sending a weak shot towards McCrorie.

Quality with the final ball was missing from both sides as the clock ticked on with Killie dictating the pace and Hearts spoiling in a bid to stay in the game.

Milne was removed in favour of Halkett and, minutes later, Fulton was careless with a short pass out of his box and Killie’s Murray wasted the opportunity, slicing the ball well wide.

Bobby Wales was replaced by Marley Watkins but it was Herts who threatened next with Nieuwenhof shooting for goal. McCrorie gathered comfortably. Then Devlin and Shankland linked and the Aussie midfielder fired for goal only to see McCrorie tip the ball over.

Nieuwenhof required treatment before he was substituted. Shankland and Forrest also departed with Elton Kabangu, Sander Kartum and James Wilson coming on. Halkett was handed the armband.

Fulton was patched up with his left leg seeming to be the problem as Liam Polworth and Cole Burke took the field for Killie, Lyons and Armstrong making way and, within seconds, Killie had a great chance but Murray wasted it, firing over from the penalty spot area.

The Rugby Park side looked the most likely to break the deadlock and they continued to hem Hearts into their own area, keeping the pressure on, but the Men in Maroon broke free and Wilson fired the ball wide from an angle on the right.

However, it was normal service soon after as Killie powered down the right only to be blocked by Hearts who, up to now, had managed the game well despite being minus one man.

Vassell was then substituted by ex-Jambo, Gary Mackay-Steven, as Fulton continued to struggle with Kent, who had been outstanding the game, taking goal kicks and the goalkeeper was again given treatment but remained on the pitch with four minutes of regular time remaining.

What a shock for Killie seconds later. Hearts moved forward and the ball broke to Kingsley (pictured by Nigel Duncan) from a header on the edge of the box with a minute left. The experienced defender drilled the ball into the bottom right-hand corner with his left foot from a central position to spark celebrations among the travelling support.

The goal was checked by VAR with a challenge by Wilson under scrutiny, but the goal stood and Hearts claimed their fourth win in a row.

The graffiti in Dalry Community Park appeared soon after it opened. Now there is graffiti on the approach path from Russell Road and over the concrete used in the construction of the park.

We met with Cllr Ross McKenzie (Independent) who says he has been trying to get something done about it, but the graffiti is still there, and has probably been added to over the month since we first wrote about it.

This is part of a new walking and cycling link from Roseburn to Duff Street which had a £12 million budget, but in the end cost £17 million with the council contributing the extra £5 million.

Cllr McKenzie said he is “pleased with many aspects” but continues to call for action on the graffiti – and most recently on the maintenance of the trees which have been planted in the park.

He said: “I’m really pleased to have the investment come to the area. It’s not entirely new as a park – it was previously the Dalry Community Park. It was a train station at one time, but the regeneration of the park is a huge benefit to the area.

“Now about six months after the opening there are still a lot of outstanding issues that I’ve sought to highlight with the officers. Even prior to opening, the most obvious and glaring issue was that it doesn’t actually connect to the canal, and there’s still quite a lot of awkwardness around the the Dundee street crossing. Between the canal and the Western Approach road will be addressed, probably quite far into the future as part of another project.

“So that’s a bit of a frustration, but once you actually get down here into the park, I think what you can see here is a great community asset with perhaps a few snagging issues that we need to get on top of over the next few months.”

Following our articles last month about the graffiti in the park which is really just tags, not any original art, we asked what the council is doing about removing it.

Cllr McKenzie said: “This is something I have had a lot of emails about, something I’ve brought up with officers. I understand that there will be a free site put into place, and there is discussion about potential for CCTV. Certainly, the way I would prefer, that the council dealt with graffiti, is by increasing the quality of it, and there is funding available, and funding in place, for an art project. I believe that’s been procured by the contractor who have the contract to maintain the landscape.”

This would not mean spaces for people to actually create graffiti, although the councillor agreed that there is also potential for those. But what he means is a project “to provide funding to a group of artists to do a specific piece of work that is informed by community engagement”.

He agreed that this park and the path leading up to it was almost an open invitation to the so-called graffiti artists. He said: “More towards the Russell Road end, there’s a lot of big, empty spaces that were just begging to be tagged. And I think my understanding is that those spaces will be prioritised for an art project.

“I think the project was late in delivery in many different ways, and perhaps there was a little bit of a rush to get it opened before all these aspects were dealt with. But certainly when I’ve raised it, I’ve been reassured that there is a strategy in place, but we’re just not quite there yet.”

The trees

As we cycled towards the park with Cllr McKenzie we had begun talking about the trees. Although hundreds of trees were felled to make way for the path some 5,000 trees were planted over five years as part of this development. But with the dry weather there is a worry that the trees will die off due to lack of water.

(The local councillor says 800 trees were felled but the council has said 450 on its website.)

Cllr McKenzie said: “Around 800 trees were chopped down for this project. That was really controversial, and some of them were in good condition, and a lot of people opposed that. They were reassured that there would be a survival rate of around 40% – so 2,000 trees out of 5,000 being planted over five years.

“A number of people have been in touch with me this week to say they’re concerned that there won’t be 40% of those 5,000 alive by the end of the week if they don’t get watered through the unusually dry spell of weather.”

“Just while we’ve been out volunteers are out trying to water these trees, but obviously there’s so many of them that it’s going to take quite an effort. So I’ve written to the contractor, the project management, and the chief executive, to say that this really needs to be prioritised, and something is being done.

“I struggle to ask people and say, “Come and water the trees” when your council tax has paid quite substantial sums to people to look after these trees. But there are certainly some community minded people out there who are already doing that.

“And there are these little black tubes next to the bigger trees that you can actually pour water just directly in but the problem is really getting water on site.

“There’s a community garden down on the Russell Road end and they have been having to bring water on site.”

Since our talk on Friday Cllr McKenzie has said on social media that watering has been undertaken by the contractor who have a contract to maintain the site.

Great to see the whole site being watered this morning. I was reassured in conversation with the contractor that the vast majority of the trees are doing well.

[image or embed]

— Ross McKenzie (@rosssmckenzie.bsky.social) 17 May 2025 at 12:01

Hibernian Women claimed their first SWPL title in 18-years thanks to a superb victory over Rangers at Ibrox this afternoon. 

Linzi Taylor scored the decisive goal which means Champions League football next year. 

Head coach Grant Scott insisted that Hibs were heading along the M8 looking for a win even though a draw would have been enough. And his players did just that.  

Rangers started on the front foot winning multiple corners, but Noa Schumacher managed to clear each one. 

In a feisty encounter Hibs Caley-Gibb and Rangers Nicola Docherty were both shown early yellow cards for separate offences. 

Gibb’s was for a shirt pull on Mia McAulay and Docherty’s for her challenge on Kathleen McGovern. 

Katie Wilkinson then set up McAulay but Schumacher did well to save. 

At the other end McGovern sent a teasing ball into the Rangers box but Ciara Grant shot straight at Jenna Fife. 

McAulay was lucky not to see a yellow card for a petulant push on Gibb after a free-kick was awarded against her. 

Rangers continued to press forward and McAulay went close with a curled effort from 15-yards and that was the last clear chance of the first-half. 

Stacey Papadopoulos replaced Gibb, at half time. 

Eight minutes after the restart Kirsten Reilly’s long-range strike struck the crossbar with the Rangers keeper helpless. 

Eilidh Adams was next to try her luck, but her effort was blocked. 

In the 57^th minute Michaela McAlonie was replaced by Rosie Livingstone. 

Reilly tried another long-range effort, but Fife saved easily. 

At the other end Wilkinson fired straight at Schumacher. 

Chelsea Cornett was shown a yellow card for a late challenge in midfield and from the resultant free-kick the ball fell to Adams who fired over the bar. 

Ciara Grant was then booked for a late challenge. 

Brogan Hay and Laura Berry replaced Jodie McLeary and Kirsty Howat with 20-minutes remaining. 

Two minutes later Hibs took the lead in dramatic fashion, Linzi Taylor collected the ball in midfield, strode forward and slid the ball to McGovern. 

The Hibs striker kept the ball in before crossing it into the path of Taylor who volleyed the ball past Fife to the delight of the large travelling support. 

McGovern tried to lob Fif from 25-yards, but the effort was off target. 

In the 80^th minute Adams was replaced by Abbie Ferguson. 

Hunter then did well to tackle Hardy in the box as the Rangers player was about to pull the trigger from 10-yards. 

Rangers piled on the pressure and Hunter produced a vital block to deny McAulay. 

Jane Ross and Lizzie Arnot came on for the last five minutes as a last throw of the dice. 

Hunter was shown a yellow card for a foul on Hay. 

In the last action of the game McGovern broke clear on the half-way line and Laura Rafferty deliberately tripped her, earning a red card. 

As soon as the free-kick was taken the referee blew his whistle sparking wild celebrations. 

After the final whistle goal scorer Taylor told Sky Sports when asked to sum up her feelings: “Honestly a bit emotional. I don’t think it’s set in yet. 

“But I am absolutely delighted for that group of players and the fans that have followed us near and far,  

“I’m honestly made up.” On her goal she said: “I remember getting the ball and getting tackled on the edge of the box. I just saw the space and thought I’d take it and luckily my legs had a wee bit left in them. 

“I can’t believe it. It’s the stuff you dream of when you were a wee girl. For anyone watching today, young girls and boys, this is the stuff of dreams. 

“I am absolutely delighted. We knew a draw would have got us the win, but we came here for three points and that’s exactly what we done. 

“A lot of people wrote us off, especially when you look back to the 4-0 game at Easter Road but you look how far we have come as a team. Working together. Everybody’s in it for each other. That’s from the coaching staff down to the medical team. 

“They’ve kept everyone going throughout the season the sports psychologists. 

“This isn’t about us as a group of players it’s about everybody. As a club they have given us their backing and thankfully we have showed them what we can do. 

“For me it’s unbelievable. The fans have showed up in their numbers every single week and always made a noise and for us it’s probably what has got us over the line most of the time. This is for them as well.” 

Rangers 0 Hibernian 1

Rangers: Fife, Rafferty, Middag, Docherty, McLeary, Cornet, Maclean, McAulay, Hardy, Howat, Wilkinson. 

Substitutes: Esson, Hill, Hay, Ross, Arnot, Berry, Lafaix. 

Hibernian: Schumacher, Doran-Barr, Hunter, L Taylor, Gibb, Reilly, Grant, McAlonie, Adams, McGovern, Morrison. 

Substitutes: Armitage, Papadopoulos, Ferguson, Tweedie, Notley, Livingstone, Boyle, Ramsay, I Taylor. 

Pride Edinburgh is due to hold their 2025 march on 21 June through the city centre, but they have just announced that all politicians will be banned.

it is customary for politicians of all parties to make impassioned speeches from the top of the Pride bus outside The Scottish Parliament before the march then proceeds up the Royal Mile and eventually to The Meadows.

This year however the organisation says that it cannot have any politicians in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act 2010.

In a statement which you can read below the organisation says: “The organising team is alarmed by the ongoing rollback of protections and support for the transgender community driven by those in power across both the Scottish and UK governments and political parties.”

The statement continues: “It is clear those in power and the combined voices of political parties across the UK by their silence and inaction, are not hearing the voices of our community and it would be wrong for Pride Edinburgh 2025 to give political parties a platform at our event.”

Liberal Democrat equalities spokesperson and Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine said: “I completely understand the frustration felt by so many people in the LGBTQ+ community; they have been let down by too many politicians who are now notable in their silence.

“However, Liberal Democrats have always and will always champion the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

“That’s why I have submitted a parliamentary motion calling on members to reaffirm their commitment to protecting and advancing the rights of trans and non-binary people across the UK.

“I am also very proud of my colleague Jamie Greene, who has said to the Scottish Government that he will take forward a ban on conversion therapy practices if ministers will not.

“I shall also be contacting organisers and other representatives of the LGBTQ+ community to make our case about why not all political parties should be tarred with the same brush.”

https://edm.parliament.uk/early-day-motion/63647/political-parties-at-pride

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CDKU3hVTf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Dwight Gayle bid farewell to Hibs and called time on his illustrious playing career yesterday after winning the Man of the match award despite not starting.

The veteran forward joined the Club in summer 2024 as a back up when Kieron Bowie suffered a bad injury.

He only spent a year with Hibs but he certainly made his mark.

Gayle registered 10 goal contributions in 29 appearances scoring some vital goals throughout the season – including that winner at Tynecastle on Boxing Day.

Gayle was given a guard of honour at the end of the match – a special moment that he was able to enjoy with his family by his side. He told Hibs TV:

“After the game, I was very emotional, we got a fantastic reception from the fans and it has honestly been a pleasure to play for such a historic club and big club.

“I have very fond memories from my time here at Hibs –they are some of the best of my career. The dressing room has been unbelievable, as well as the coaching staff – so I am so thankful that I was able to end it in this way.

“I was a bit embarrassed in the end, I was awarded ‘Man of the Match’ but I had an absolute stinker. But I was very emotional at the end because football means so much to me.

“It has been such a pleasure to be around some of the boys in the dressing room, to see some of them progress in their careers and get international call-ups as well brings me nothing but joy.”

Reflecting on his career as a whole, Gayle explained how much he has enjoyed the last 12 months and assured the Hibs fans that he would be back as a supporter next season!

“Hibs has been a completely different part of my career; I have come here and tried to help the team in any way I can – either on the pitch or off the pitch.

“I got some nice video messages from the boys on my last day on how I have helped them or helped the team which was great to hear. I have formed a lot of friendships and there are people at the Club that I will stay in touch with in the future.

“I will be coming back here next season to watch the European games for sure! It has been a fantastic year for me, and I am so thankful that I have been able to come to Hibs and experience it.”

Hibernian Women head coach Grant Scott insists his side will do nothing less than try and win today’s title deciding match against Rangers outright despite a draw being enough.

Leading second-place Rangers by three points heading into the final day, the permutations are simple for Scott’s side. Avoiding defeat is necessary to secure the ScottishPower Women’s Premier League title. 

Not shying away from the magnitude of Sunday’s winner-takes-all clash at Ibrox Stadium, Scott has little worry regarding his players’ attitude and mindset heading into the match.

“I think the biggest part is keeping them grounded and keeping calm, we’ve got to be in control of ourselves on Sunday. And if we’re being honest the motivation really should take care of itself.

“We’re in an unbelievable position but we’ve got a massive challenge on our hands on Sunday, Rangers are a tough opponent at their home venue, with crowd behind them. But sometimes that can add some pressure.

“Our motivation should be fine, we’ve just got to control the bits we can going into the game.”

Last season, Hibs finished below the three financially-strong Glasgow teams and Hearts in Scott’s first season back in charge at the Club in what was undeniably a season of transition on and off the pitch.

Fast forward to present day, Hibs have accrued a Club-record SWPL points total and head into the final day fighting for the league title.

An emphasis on talent development, a strong team ethos and a clear tactical style has seen the team progress rapidly – something Scott is keen for everyone associated with the Club to remember regardless of Sunday’s outcome. 

“I think we have to just be really conscious of what we have achieved. We’ve added a ridiculous extra number of points on last season’s total and we’re going to go in the title race to the last day of the season.

“Two, three, four, five years back we might we would have been miles from that. So, I think we have to remember where we are, where we’ve been, where we’ve came from even 12 months ago. Most of the post-split fixtures didn’t mean anything to us at that point, we were just playing the games as best we could.

“To have this now is a remarkable achievement whatever happens come Sunday but obviously we want to go that one extra now and try and get some success.”

Due to an insurmountable points difference, Glasgow City are effectively ruled out of the title race – meaning Sunday’s clash in Govan becomes a straight shoot-out for the title between Hibs and Rangers.

A draw would do for the Hibs, but Scott insists his side will be targeting nothing less than a third consecutive victory against Jo Potter’s side. 

“We don’t have to be looking over our shoulder, checking results elsewhere, I think we we’re in a position that we know the permutations.

“We’re going to go and try to win the game. Having other results happen for you is thankfully out of the equation.

“We just have to go and win the game if we can and that should give you absolute focus on the job in hand.”

David Gray praised his players for giving absolutely everything as they drew 2-2 with Rangers on the final day of the William Hill Premiership campaign.

It was an end-to-end match at Easter Road with Hibs coming from behind twice to get a point.

Whilst there wasn’t anything to play for in terms of final league position, Gray praised his players for their commitment and effort during the match.

He said: “It certainly wasn’t a nothing game. There was always going to be an edge to the game, and both sets of players gave absolutely everything. My players have given me everything all season and it was a good way to end the season.

“We would’ve liked to have won the game, of course, but the effort and commitment was there, and they can go and enjoy the summer now.”

Now the season has come to a close, Gray will reflect on the campaign, and believes he’s learnt a lot over the last 12 months.

“I’ve learnt a lot about myself, the players, the group during that adversity at the start. I’ve said it for a number of weeks now, the strength of the group and the dressing room is as great as I’ve seen it. The adversity put them in a better place, and they deserve the credit for coming through that period and what they’ve achieved this season.

“It’s an incredible achievement when you think we were bottom of the league in December and finished third with a game to spare; it’s a fantastic achievement.”

At the end of the game, the players came together with the supporters for a rendition of Sunshine on Leith, another special moment to add to what’s been a special season.

“There’s been many special moments this season; highs and lows,” admitted Gray.

“We’ve had Sunshine on Leith back-to-back, it’s the greatest song in football for me, and the players deserved that at the end of the game for their efforts this season. To have that moment with the fans, and their families – because they go through it every day – creates more special moments. The players fully deserve a well-earned break now.”

The block grant for the Scottish Government this year is £50 billion following Main Estimates 2025-26 published on Thursday.

The UK Government says that The Scottish Government already had the largest real terms spending review settlement since devolution began at £47.7 billion.

Following revisions at the Spring Statement and Main Estimates, the Treasury has now confirmed the latest settlement will be £50 billion.

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, said: “The UK Government delivered the largest spending review settlement in the history of the Scottish Parliament, now Scots rightly expect to see that record finding deliver better results like lower NHS waiting lists, better attainment in Schools, more police on the beat and more housing.

“I was very concerned this week to see that attainment targets for Scottish schools have been reduced and housebuilding has fallen by 4,000, meanwhile police officer numbers are lower than when police Scotland was established and 800,000 Scots are on an NHS waiting list.

“Where the UK Government has responsibility for public services, we are seeing NHS waiting lists fall, more housing being built and more bobbies on the beat, all part of our Plan for Change. This historic funding deal for the Scottish Government should be delivering similar results.”

Hibs twice came from behind to take a share of the points against Rangers at a packed Easter Road this afternoon.

After the midweek fixtures, Hibs had secured third place so there was only pride to play for.

Before kick off Hibs held a minutes applause in memory of former owner Sit Tom Farmer. Disappointingly the gesture was disrupted by a section of the Rangers supporters who chanted a sectarian song throughout. This caused a reaction from the home fans who booed the Ultras.

David Gray made four changes from the starting XI that drew 2-2 draw with St Mirren and gave a first start to January signing Alasana Manneh.

Warren O’Hora, Nicky Cadden and Kieran Bowie were the other changes. Lewis Miller dropped out completely, while Dylan Levitt, Jordan Obita and Mykola Kuharevich dropped to the bench.

Rangers made two changes with Neraysho Kasanwirjo’s first start since October after returning from injury. He replaced Jefte at left-back.

Danilo also replaced the injured Hamza Igamane.

After a hectic opening few minutes Rangers took the lead when Jordan Smith clearance was intercepted by Nicolas Raskin. His header found the unmarked Cyriel Dessers and the striker turned and shot into the net.

There was controversy on 20 minutes when Mohamed Diomande slid the ball through to Nicolas Raskin who poked it Smith. Rocky Bushiri raced back and managed to clear the ball under pressure. It looked as if the ball had crossed the line but a subsequent VAR check was unable to determine one way or another.

Hibs then went up the other end and Kieran Bowie smashed in first time from a cut-back from Martin Boyle. After a lengthy VAR check the goal was given.

Moments later Boyle gott on to the end of a superb ball over the top, but his first time volley flew inches wide.

At the other end James Tavenier’s free-kick from 25 yards out looked goal bound but Smith produced a wonderful diving save.

Five minutes after the restart Rangers regained their lead after a whipped corner was nodded home by Raskin at the front post.

Neraysho Kasanwirjo was then booked for stamping on Nicky Cadden which resulted in a stramash amongst both sets of players.

Rangers almost made it 3-1 when Kasanwirjo’s cross picked out Danilo perfectly, and the Brazilian toed his volley at goal, but Smith got down well to save.

Then in the 66th minute Hibs equalised again when Boyle headed home a wonderful inch perfect cross from Nicky Cadden.

Smith then produced another fine save to deny Dessers as Rangers pressed for the winner.

Both sides had chances and in time added on Boyle broke clear but Jack Butland denied the striker and the game finished all square.

The Hibs players lined up to wacth the fans sing Sunshine on Leith for the third time in recent weeks.

After the final whistle Gray told BBC Scotland “We gave away a bad goal and put ourselves 1-0 down very early on. It was never going to be a nothing game, there’s always a wee edge to these games.

“It was a bit frantic, both teams were desperate to win. We didn’t want to just fade away, it was full commitment from both sets of players. There was everything in the game.

“It was probably fitting, the way our season has gone. To not lose is another positive, the players could enjoy ‘Sunshine on Leith’ again, fully deserved for their efforts.

Rangers’ head coach Barry Ferguson said: “It was a clear goal, it was there for everybody [to see]. It was clear to me it was over the line, then it goes to VAR and for some odd reason, they don’t see it being a goal.

“That’s frustrating, disappointing, and worrying. We need to be getting these decisions correct, that’s why VAR is here. It’s clear VAR’s not working.

“I’ve watched it five or six times. It’s clear as day that the ball is over the line.”

Hibs: Smith, O’Hora, Bushiri, Iredale, C Cadden, Alasana, Triantis, N Cadden, Hoilett, Boyle, Bowie.

Substitutes: Bursik, Ekpiteta, Levitt, Youan, Obita, Moriah-Welsh, Campbell, Gayle, Kuharevich.

Rangers: Butland, Tavernier, Souttar, Balogun, Kasanwirjo, Barron, Diomande, Raskin, Cerny, Danilo, Dessers.

Substitutes: Kelly, Propper, Cortes, Lawrence, Nsiala, McCausland, Rice, Curtis, McCallion.

Play began for this year at Corstorphine Lawn Tennis Club from their opening day on 5 April.

But today the weather was ideal for everyone to take to the courts on Belgrave Road.

Saturday afternoons are reserved for social tennis between 1pm and 4pm. A spokesperson for the club says that “involving everyone is a key club priority so it’s no problem getting a game.

There is information about joining on the club website here.

The General Assembly 2025 opened in Edinburgh at the Assembly Hall on The Mound on Saturday and will continue until Thursday.

The Rt Hon Lady Elish Angiolini LT, DBE, PC, KC, FRSE, represented His Majesty King Charles at the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland on Saturday.

Lady Angiolini said that people are the creation of God and all require “love, forgiveness and support” in all their imperfection.

She said she was profoundly honoured to be chosen as the first practising Roman Catholic to be Lord High Commissioner at the annual gathering which began in Edinburgh today.

Lady Elish’s appointment was only made possible after both Houses of Parliament in London changed a law dating back to 1689 that barred Roman Catholics from holding the role.

Addressing the General Assembly, she said: “I am so pleased to be here with you all and particularly pleased I actually made it here.

“I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone who helped secure my presence here today.”

Her Grace said she believed that prejudice and sectarianism can be overcome by the recognition that we are “all Jock Tamson’s bairns”.

Lady Elish said she was 11 when she remembered how that “essential love of humanity” manifested in January 1971 when there was a crush among the crowd at an Old Firm football game at Ibrox, which caused 66 deaths and more than 200 injuries.

Her father and neighbours went to the aid of people caught up in the tragedy.

Lady Elish said: “I, in turn, was on the receiving end of such compassion when I was a victim in the front carriage of the train when the Polmont rail disaster occurred in 1984

“Again, it was the kindness of complete strangers, other passengers, that I recollect to this day, as I lay trapped in the wreckage, comforted by their love and compassion as they teased me about how hopeless Celtic was to distract me from the horror of the situation we were in.”

Read all of the reports and documents for the General Assembly 2025 here.

This is an expletive laden script. It may have a pure brass neck, but it still entertains.

Continue reading here

At the Royal Lyceum and touring elsewhere. 

Citizens Advice Edinburgh will receive £100,000 in new funding over the next two years from independent funder Foundation Scotland.

The local charity, which has four offices in the city as well as an advice website, will receive £50,000 each this year and £50,000 in the next financial year.

The award is part of Foundation Scotland’s £12million fast-tracked “Response Fund”, designed to support organisations which serve the hardest hit communities across the country.

The funding programme comes in response to increased pressure on charities and community groups, many of whom are seeing a surge in demand for services while they themselves are facing reduced capacity and soaring overheads, such as utilities, staffing and National Insurance costs.

Citizens Advice Edinburgh delivers free, confidential, life-changing advice from four different bureaux, 20 outreach locations across the city, online, and by telephone.

In 2024/25, Edinburgh CAB provided advice to 12,000 people, delivering a total of £5 million in the form of compensation, benefit payments, with-held wages and other financial assistance.

Benjamin Napier, CEO of Citizens Advice Edinburgh, said: “This funding is a recognition of both the need and the quality of the work our advisers do and is a real vote of confidence in our service. It will help us to deliver our free confidential impartial advice to more local people at a time when demand for advice and support hits record levels.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to Foundation Scotland for the support, and also to all the staff and volunteers in our CAB who continue to work each day to better the lives of people across Edinburgh.”

Giles Ruck, CEO of Foundation Scotland said: “CABs are often the first point of contact for people in crisis. Advisers and volunteers work tirelessly to provide the support and solutions needed to alleviate peoples’ worried but as charities themselves, CABs face their own set of pressures.

“As Scotland’s Community Foundation, we’re acutely aware that people across the country are continuing to face ongoing financial hardship, struggling to keep their heads above water or pay their bills.

https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk

https://www.citizensadviceedinburgh.org.uk

A major development will be considered by planners on Wednesday with a recommendation that the application to build 168 homes (including 40 affordable houses) on the brownfield site is approved.

The development at 40 Slateford Road by Artisan Real Estate is on the site of the former Caledonian Brewery, and given the scale of the application, some two and a half hours has been scheduled for the application. Anyone may attend the meeting or watch online here.

The new housing development includes affordable housing and there is a mix of old buildings which will be retained, some of which are listed, and also new build homes. The advice from planning officers is that “demolition is always a loss and should only be considered as a last resort when all other options have been explored”. But officers conclude that the proposal will not harm the special architectural or historic interest of the listed building and there will be no detrimental impact on the setting.

The number of affordable homes will be less than the council’s stipulated requirement of 35%. The developer has provided evidence that there are exceptional costs and this supports fewer homes than would otherwise be required. But the developer will have to provide a commuted sum of £420,000 to make up for the reduced number of affordable homes.

Other financial contributions include a payment towards active travel infrastructure of £132,046, four car club spaces costing £80,000, and a secondary school contribution of £63,342.

There will be 365 cycle parking spaces provided indoors and outside the flats with a combination of secure stores and Sheffield stands, as well as two-tier cycle storage inside. There will be ten spaces for non-standard bikes. Developers will provide two accessible car parking space with EV chargers to the north and middle of the site. There will be a developer contribution made towards providing four Car Club spaces in the vicinity, the bus shelter on Slateford Road which will be upgraded and a new pelican crossing will be created adjacent to the bus stop.

The application states that “No other car parking is proposed”.

The report provides support for a low car parking development such as this: “LDP policy Inf 7 (Private Car Parking) supports development where private car use is not needed, with a view to encouraging parking free or low car parking developments.

“A range of factors are set out within the policy for consideration such as levels of sustainable transport accessibility, parking controls on neighbouring streets, availability of shared mobility services, and whether accessible parking standards are satisfied.

“The location and design of the two proposed accessible parking spaces are acceptable in the context of LDP policy Inf 8 (Design of Car Parking) and in accordance with the Council’s parking standards. In respect of no other parking being proposed for future residents the proposal is consistent with the objectives of LDP policy Inf 7 as it is in an existing urban location with excellent access to public transport, close to local facilities which reduce the need for travel by private vehicle, and located close to several road and path arteries (Slateford Road, Gorgie Road, and the Union Canal) to the City and surrounding areas which allow for active travel.”

It is recognised in the report to councillors that there have been many objections from neighbours, and from people living in the neighbouring Merchiston Community Council area, regarding the possibility that they will be adversely affected by the lack of parking in the development.

During the three month long consultation last year bodies including Merchiston Community Council considered the proposals. At their meeting last June Cllr Val Walker confirmed that she had been assured “residents of the new development will know they cannot have parking permits, but understands the fear that residents will park nearby in evenings and at weekends”. However she pointed out that there is a need for non student housing and this development provides that, and has good transport links.

Gorgie/Dalry Community Council were also given the chance as statutory consultees of commenting on the plans. The developers made a presentation to the community council at their meeting on 1 April 2024, and the community council responded positively subject to a requirement for restoring the Slateford Road wall, providing space for delivery vehicles in the development and improved access to the site with improved links to Dalry Community Park.

Residents’ objections

A resident, who has asked to remain anonymous, wrote to The Edinburgh Reporter with their ongoing concerns about the lack of parking in the proposed development, and the apparent disregard for the objections lodged by local residents. They wrote: “The developer claims it will be a “car-free” development, yet there are no legal restrictions on residents owning vehicles — nor any way to enforce these.

“The developer’s own application shows that the area averages 0.6 cars per household, meaning at least 100 additional vehicles could soon flood nearby streets. Local parking is already maxed out, and while there’s a residents’ permit zone nearby, it doesn’t apply in the evenings or weekends, when demand for parking by residents is highest, so offers no protection for existing residents.

“To make matters worse, the development will cut existing parking in the area by creating 4 new City Car Club bays on public streets, at the expense of residential parking spaces, and a new pelican crossing removing a further 10 parking spaces.

“Despite overwhelming concern from residents (more than 150 objections — equivalent to 67% of households notified during the planning process) and Merchiston Community Council, Edinburgh Council officers are recommending approval.

“Local residents support new housing — but not at the expense of making life impossible for existing communities.”

Artisan said that the development was intended to “respect, preserve and tell the story of the Caledonian Brewery”.

David Westwater Managing Director Scotland for Artisan said after the consultation events last year: “The feedback from our consultation events was overwhelmingly supportive and positive. There was a significant and long-established affinity, amongst local residents especially, for the historic brewery buildings which will be preserved to form the heart of our new development – including the spectacular 130-ft red brick chimney which towers over the local community.”

He continued: “There was also significant support for our plans create a much needed sustainable, low carbon residential community on the site, with 168 homes providing a healthy mix of different types of accommodation. This will include a mix of one, two and three-bed family apartments through to duplex units and mews houses, together with affordable housing in line with the City of Edinburgh Council policy.”

The brewery was founded in 1869 but was closed in 2022 by Heineken UK who then marketed it for sale.

The planning application 24/024048/FUL is here.

The main report is below:

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Caledonian Brewery – Development Timeline