The union UNISON warns that Scottish Water staff are taking strike action for the next two days.

Staff at Scottish Water will begin a two-day strike from midnight tonight in a continuing discussion over pay.

Strike action will take place across Scotland on Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 April. The two-day walkout follows a one-day strike at the end of last month.

The union says that emergency repairs and water quality checks will not be carried out during the action.

If there are any problems reported with the water supply, sewage or drainage these will not be dealt with until the strike is over.

UNISON said that the offer from Scottish Water – a pay increase of 2.6% or £1,050, whichever is higher – “fails to compensate staff for a decade of real-term pay cuts”.

UNISON Scotland regional organiser Emma Phillips said: “Strike action is always a last resort. Staff have suffered a decade of pay deals that haven’t kept up with inflation. They are not willing to be underpaid any longer. 

“The union has done everything it can to try and get Scottish Water’s senior managers to put a fair offer on the table, but they are refusing to be reasonable.”

UNISON Scottish Water branch secretary Tricia McArthur said: “Scottish Water workers are simply asking to be paid fairly for the essential services upon which everyone in Scotland relies.

“Things are meant to be different in a publicly owned service like this. But senior managers are behaving no differently to those running private water companies south of the border.”

More than 1,000 workers at Scottish Water are members of the union. Staff will be on picket lines at 55 Buckstone Terrace and Juniper House at Heriot-Watt University campus in Edinburgh, as well as other locations in Scotland.

This year charity Care & Repair Edinburgh celebrate four decades of helping out.

The body was established to provide practical help around the homes of the elderly and disabled residents of Edinburgh, and with the intention of “helping elderly people who are in most need and whose homes require repair or improvement”. Forty years later the charity still provides affordable DIY and repairs for older and disabled residents of Edinburgh, however the services and the number of people being helped has dramatically increased.  

Between a four-year period of 1985 to 1989 670 clients were helped but in 2025 the charity will help nearly that number of elderly and disabled people in one month! In 2024 Care & Repair Edinburgh carried out over 6,000 DIY jobs around the homes of Edinburgh’s most vulnerable residents. This has ranged from changing lightbulbs and putting up pictures through the Volunteer Service or installing keysafes so that an older person can stay independent in their own home with a little bit of help from friends, family members or carers. Small electrical repairs have been carried, which have included changing cracked light fittings and socket plates. The joiner has fixed sash cords in windows, installed grab rails and handrails so clients can get out into their garden or installed shelves and curtain poles to make a house more homely.

Interestingly the age range of clients that the charity has helped has also changed over the years. In 1985 only 17% of the clients were over 80 years’ old, while today the figure is more than 46% and 11 over 100-year-olds were supported last year.

Care & Repair Edinburgh’s Director, Allison Strachan, said:

“It is wonderful to see the difference that we can make to the lives of the elderly and disabled residents in Edinburgh, and we receive such kind feedback from clients. Sometimes what seems like an impossible job for an elderly person who does not have very good mobility, for example climbing a ladder to change a lightbulb can be done by our wonderful volunteers in a flash!”

Today Care and Repair Edinburgh help older and vulnerable people stay independent, comfortable, safe, and secure in their own homes for as long as they can and want to. Please get in touch with Care & Repair Edinburgh if you think we can help you and need some practical work carried out around your home or you would like to volunteer or make a donation so that this Edinburgh institution can carry on for another 40 years.

Scotland’s evergreen squash players excelled at the start of the Home International series in Galway winning both the women’s over-55 section and the men’s over-75’s.

In addition the Scots were runners up at men’s over-55 level while the men’s over-35 finished fourth.

The home internationals continue this weekend in Nottingham before being hosted by Edinburgh Sports Club from May 2-3. The series concludes a week later in Cardiff.

The Scotland line-ups:

Women’s over-55’s – Donna Cruickshank, Julia Horsburgh, Helen Cordiner, Bernie Beattie, Pauline Douglas, Kim Byers.

Men’s over – 75 – Ian Ross, Alex Sinclair, Dave Bisset, Alastair McMeechan

Men’s over-55 – Peter Buchan, Andy Meldrum, Paul Jenkins, John Kynoch, Paul Macari, Colin Grant.

Men’s over-35 – Fraser Macdonald, Rene van Dorschot, Joseph Ewen, Stewart Morrison, Iain Young, Iain Tennent.

Scotland cycle speedway team manager Kyle Holland has included four Edinburgh Falcons in his squads for upcoming Home Internationals.

The Home Internationals will be held on 31 May in Norwich with Ewan Tulloch and Neil McPherson representing Scotland in the veterans section whilst Nathan Slight, captain, and Alexander Rudge race  in the junior class, the latter on loan to the Falcons from the Border Raiders club .

Nathan and Alexander plus Sam Stansfield will also represent the North and Scotland region managed by Falcon Alexander Matthews in the Battle of Britain meeting being held the day after the Home Internationals at Norwich on 1June.

Bonnyrigg Bowling Club’s green was officially opened by the players who last season won the Scottish Fours title – John Stevenson, Kevin McDougall, Colin Bonner and Ronnie Duncan.

Meanwhile, Midlothian’s biggest open day event takes place on Saturday, 26 April, across the county and the hope is this new initiative will give clubs a chance to showcase what they have to offer especially to new players.

Bowls Midlothian will be on hand to support with equipment, and a dedicated website will promote all participating clubs. 

New initiatives this year include the inaugural Midlothian Masters singles tournament during the week commencing 11 August with entries limited to 128. Already 75 entries have been received.

A new Under 18 League has been introduced and the popular under 35 Ultimate Bowls League will be played again this year over the weekend of 7-8 June.

The Bowls Midlothian Leagues, sponsored by Neilson’s Solicitors and Estate Agents, have a record  100 teams entered over the Friday evening and Tuesday morning over 55 sessions.

Both Leagues are mixed as they have been since the inception of the Association in 2018 with Andrew Robertson, President of Bowls Midlothian, remarking: “This inclusive approach reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting bowls for all.’

The SNP councillor for the Forth Ward, Stuart Dobbin, has put his name forward to represent the new Edinburgh Northern constituency at the next  Scottish Parliament election next May.

Cllr Dobbin has lived with his wife, Rosanna, in Inverleith for several years, and he says he knows Northern Edinburgh very well. 

As a local councillor he has represented Forth Ward since 2022, and before returning to Scotland worked internationally in business for over a quarter of a century. 

As councillor, he claims an active presence in the community and that he is recognised by residents and Third sector organisations as an “energetic and active advocate” for them. 

He is proud of the success he has had in pressuring the council to change how they respond to tenants living in damp and mould-ridden homes, showing the ways he can challenge institutions to achieve outcomes, in this case, that change peoples’ lives for the better and healthier. 

Stuart said: “This election is about Scotland’s place in the UK, in Europe and, ultimately, in the world.  Our country faces challenges that are of a scale radically different to those we face locally.  “

“Having rid ourselves of the Tory government, we find a Labour Prime Minister who clearly treats Scotland with contempt and is doing nothing to protect our pensioners, the disabled or the workers at Grangemouth.  All promises broken.”

“I bring a wealth of professional and lived experience.  I spent quarter of a century in leadership positions, living and working across Asia, engaging with commercial and government organisations and managing through some very tough times. 

“I have proven my commitment and ability to represent my constituents, with the drive and energy to affect change within institutions, with the temperament and broad professional and lived experience that would make me an effective advocate to stand up in the Scottish Parliament to represent Edinburgh Northern  and our national interests.”

A rare bravery medal awarded to a Scots hero who rescued a crashed RAF pilot from the burning wreckage of his bi-plane has fetched £6,000 at auction.

The Empire Gallantry Medal (EGM.) was awarded to Eric “Jock” Bonar in 1932 after he fought through 30-foot-high flames to drag the injured airman free from his crashed Siskin at Barton airfield in Manchester.

Edinburgh-born Bonar, chief flying instructor at the site and a Flight Sergeant in the Royal Air Force Reserve, was honoured with the medal for his “conspicuous courage” during the incident.

The crashed pilot, Sergeant Jack Treadwell, an old friend of Bonar’s who was undertaking a training flight, would later succumb to his injuries.

Bonar’s medal went under the hammer at Noonans auctioneers in London together with a bronze medal from the Society for the Protection of Life from Fire, presented for the same incident. They were bought by a private collector.

The Medal of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for Gallantry, known as the Empire Gallantry Medal (EGM), was established by King George V in 1922.

The highest gallantry award for civilians, it could also be awarded to military personnel in some circumstances, for acts not in the face of the enemy.

Only 130 EGMs were awarded from 1922-40, when it was superseded by the newly established George Cross and holders of the EGM were required to exchange their medal.

Although Bonar received his new George Cross medal, he was unable to return his EGM after he used it to settle an outstanding bill at a garage, making its existence even rarer.

Mark Quayle, Medal Specialist and Associate Director of Noonans, said after the sale: “Bonar’s medals were keenly contested between four different bidders, the end hammer price being reflective of their rarity.”

Bonar, born in Edinburgh in 1899, volunteered for service with the 7th Battalion Cameron Highlanders aged 16 during the First World War but was sent home after his mother informed the Army he was underage.

He later joined the Royal Navy and served in minesweepers before being demobilised in 1919.

Bonar was also a skilful pilot, and would recall how he had been “flying since God was a boy”.

A friend of Lawrence of Arabia, Bonar enlisted in the RAF and was employed as a development pilot for the Merlin Engine, which was to power Hurricanes and Spitfires and as Chief Test Pilot for Napier, testing the Sabre Engine for Typhoons and Tempests.

Bonar’s EGM citation in the London Gazette of 5 August 1932 read: “For an act of conspicuous courage in rescuing the pilot of a burning aeroplane of the Royal Air Force at Barton in May last.

“Under the protection of an asbestos blanket he unfastened the straps binding the pilot, released him from his parachute harness, and with assistance dragged him from the burning wreckage.

“He gave first aid to the airman, who was then conveyed to hospital but died about a fortnight later.”

Bonar, whose flying skills became legendary, was selected for the Gloster Grebes’ aerobatic display team. During one display King George V ordered the team by radio telephone to loop the loop, and afterwards Bonar was presented to the King.

Bonar died in 1991, aged 91. Until his death he was the oldest surviving holder of the George Cross.

A 37-year-old man arrested following a crash in Musselburgh has now been charged with road traffic offences 

The crash occurred around 4.15pm on Friday, 18 April, 2025 on Haddington Road, Musselburgh.  

A 17-year-old female pedestrian was injured and taken to hospital where her condition was described as critical. 

The man is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 22 April, 2025. 

Sergeant Dominic Doyle said: “We are working to establish the full circumstances of this incident and I would ask anyone who has yet to speak to us to get in touch.   

“All details are important, even if they seem insignificant, please do pass them on. If you have any information regarding the collision or saw the vehicle prior to the collision, please do contact us.”  

Anyone with any information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2415 of Friday, 18 April 2025. 

Hibs fans will be hoping for a Celtic victory in today’s Scottish Cup semi-final against St Johnstone.

Victory for the Hoops would all but guarantee European football at Easter Road next season.

The Scottish Cup winners earn a spot in the Europa League play-off round, with the team that finishes third in the Premiership going into the second qualifying round. 

If Celtic then go on to win the cup because they have already clinched a place in the Champions League qualifiers, the Europa play-off place – and the guaranteed lucrative six-game Conference League campaign that comes with it – goes to whoever finishes third in the league. 

Currently, that’s Hibs. But United and Aberdeen could also finish in third place. St Mirren could also claim a spot but they are currently 12-points behind Hibs and nine behind Aberdeen and Dundee United.

Fourth place would be upgraded from Conference League to Europa League, with that Conference spot going to whoever finishes fifth. 

St Johnstone could change all that with a second victory over Celtic inside a month. 

Should they do so, then either they or Aberdeen would go into the Conference League come the autumn. 

Scotland suffered a comprehensive nine-try defeat at the hands of the a dominant England side in Leicester yesterday.

England took an early lead when Kelsey Clifford powered over for the opening try. Holly Aitchison added the conversion. 

Borderers Lisa Thomson and Chloe Rollie made strong carries but after some sustained pressure deep in Scotland’s 22, Marlie Packer crashed over from close range, with Aitchison again converting. 

England added a third try in the 20^th minute when Zoe Aldcroft ran it in under the posts. Aitchison kept up her perfect kicking record with the conversion. 

Despite brave defending from Scotland the Red Roses struck again. A line-out move released Claudia McDonald to score in the corner, and Aitchison converted again. 

In the 34^th minute a superb tap tackle from Emma Orr stopped McDonald just short, however England held advantage then after relentless defence, Abbie Ward found a gap to power over. Aitchison converted once more. 

Just before the break Lark Atkin-Davies squeezed over for the sixth try of the half. Aitchison slotted her sixth conversion to make it 42-0 for the hosts. 

Eleven minutes after the restart McDonald, grabbed her second try of the afternoon and Aitchison converted again. 

Two minutes later Lucia Scott entered the fray – making her Six Nations debut – alongside Leah Bartlett and Elis Martin, replacing Fran McGhie, Anne Young and Lana Skeldon.  

Orr then broke down the left wing and Scotland won a penalty. Helen Nelson kicked to the corner, and after a determined maul the ball was grounded.  

After a review from TMO, it was confirmed that Thomson had dotted down.  Nelson, cool under pressure, slotted the extras. 

Rhea Clarke then made her Scotland debut, joining sister Elliann on the pitch – the first time the Clarke sisters have shared the international stage. 

Scotland’s defence continued to scrap, with Elliann Clarke producing a key steal and Emma Orr again disrupting play with her footwork and kicking game. Thomson’s tactical kicking pushed England deep into their half, and for a moment, Scotland looked in control. A promising multi-phase attack saw powerful carries from Orr and Lucia Scott, but a knock-on at the try line ended the opportunity. 

With less than 10 minutes remaining further substitutions saw debut caps for Gemma Bell and Rachel Philipps, replacing Nelson and Sarah Bonar 

Four minutes later Abby Dow but on this occasion, Aitchison missed the conversion.  

With the clock winding down, Scotland found themselves a player down, with Chloe Rollie was shown a yellow card before Dow scored her second to close out the match. Aitchison missed her conversion. 

That was the last of the scoring and England won 59-7. 

Scotland: 15. Chloe Rollie, 14. Rhona Lloyd, 13. Emma Orr, 12. Lisa Thomson, 11. Francesca McGhie, 10. Helen Nelson – captain, 9. Caity Mattinson, 1. Anne Young, 2. Lana Skeldon, 3. Elliann Clarke, 4. Becky Boyd, 5. Sarah Bonar, 6. Evie Gallagher, 7. Rachel McLachlan, 8. Jade Konkel 

Replacements: 16. Elis Martin (on for Lana Skeldon, 53 mins), 17. Leah Bartlett (on for Anne Young, 53 mins), 18. Molly Poolman (on for Elliann Clarke, 63 mins), 19. Adelle Ferrie (on for Becky Boyd, 66 mins), 20. Gemma Bell (on for Sarah Bonar, 72 mins), 21. Rhea Clarke (on for Caity Mattinson, 60 mins), 22. Rachel Philipps (on for Helen Nelson, 72 mins), 23. Lucia Scott (on for Francesca McGhie, 53 mins) 

England: 15. Ellie Kildunne, 14. Abby Dow, 13. Megan Jones, 12. Jade Shekells, 11. Claudia MacDonald, 10. Holly Aitchison, 9. Lucy Packer, 1. Kelsey Clifford, 2. Lark Atkin-Davies, 3. Sarah Bern, 4. Rosie Galligan, 5. Abbie Ward, 6. Zoe Aldcroft (captain), 7. Marlie Packer, 8. Maddie Feunati. 

Replacements: 16. May Campbell, 17. Hannah Botterman, 18. Maud Muir, 19. Morwenna Talling, 20. Alex Matthews, 21. Natasha Hunt, 22. Helena Rowland, 23. Emily Scarratt. 

Referee: Clara Munarini (FIR) 
Assistant Referee 1: Maria Heitor (FPR) 
Assistant Referee 2: Amber Stamp-Dunstan (WRU) 
TMO: Matteo Liperini (FIR) 

Attendance: 15, 530 

Player of the Match: Claudia McDonald (England) 

Former Hibs Scottish Cup winning midfielder Fraser Fyvie has been included in the 2024-25 PFA Scotland League One Team of the Year. 

Fyvie previously played 77-games for Hibs having been signed by Alan Stubbs, including the Scottish Cup final victory over Rangers in 2016. He scored twice for the club. 

He also played for Aberdeen where he was their youngest ever player and Wigan Athletic where he won an FA Cup winners medal as an unused substitute in the club’s historic victory over Manchester City in the final. 

The side is compiled from votes cast by players at all ten clubs across the division. 

Despite a few injuries, Fyvie played thirty-two matches for Cove Rangers and scored seven times, including two candidates for Cove Rangers goal of the season.  

Earlier in the campaign he celebrated his 150^th appearance for the club, and the captain has been one of the driving forces behind our promotion bid. 

Team mate and Mitch Megginson was also nominated along with former Hibs player Scott Taggartwho played three times under Colin Calderwood in 2011. 

A Cove Rangers spokesperson said: “Everyone at Cove Rangers would like to warmly congratulate both Fraser and Mitch, and thank them for their contributions this season. Their inclusion in the team is well merited!” 

The full teams is as follows: Musa Dibaga – Inverness CT, Scott Taggart – Alloa Athletic, Gregor Buchanan – Stenhousemuir, Thomas O’Brien – Arbroath, Danny Devine – Inverness CT, Ross Cunningham – Kelty Hearts, Fraser Taylor – Arbroath, Fraser Fyvie – Cove Rangers, Scott Stewart – Arbroath, Mitchel Megginson – Cove Rangers, Alfie Bavidge – Inverness CT 

He was the last man to be publicly beheaded in Britain, a notorious Jacobite lord whose last act of defiance is credited with being the origin of the saying “laughing your head off”.

Now, following the anniversary of his execution, on 9 April 1747, an Edinburgh historian has cast doubt on the “devious and duplicitous” reputation of Simon Fraser, 11th Lord Lovat.

Fraser was convicted of treason for his role in the Jacobite rising of 1745, and executed on Tower Hill in London.

For nearly 300 years, portrayals have focused on his violent feuding, changes of allegiance and his forced marriage to the widow of his predecessor.

In Outlander, in which he was played by Clive Russell, he is grandfather to Jamie Fraser, who describes him as “a terrible auld monster”.

Last year, Hollywood actor Russell Crowe revealed he was a distant relative of Fraser, describing him as “quite the character”, whose “Machiavellian ways caught up with him”.

But Michael Nevin, author and former chair of The 1745 Association, the organisation that commemorates the Jacobite era, said that Fraser had been “misrepresented” in history and fiction.

He insisted Fraser had been “judged solely by allegations made by his enemies” and was “a more sympathetic and even, in some respects, heroic” figure.

He said: “Simon Fraser, 11th Lord Lovat, is commonly portrayed in fiction and history as a devious, duplicitous, untrustworthy and generally unpleasant individual who got his just deserts when he was executed on April 9th 1747, thereby gaining the dubious distinction of being the last nobleman to be condemned by his peers in the House of Lords and the last man to be publicly beheaded in Britain.

“It has become conventional wisdom that he was a disreputable figure with no redeeming virtues. But a man should never be judged solely by allegations made by his enemies.

“I believe it is time to look again at Lord Lovat’s life and legacy.”

Lord Lovat was on the government side during the 1715 Jacobite Rising, but had switched allegiance by the time of the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

As head of Clan Fraser of Lovat, he ordered his clansmen to join Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite uprising under the command of his son, the master of Lovat.

While his son later surrendered and was pardoned, Lord Lovat was captured, found guilty of treason and beheaded.

At his execution, a grandstand collapsed resulting in the death of several spectators, much to the amusement of the elderly Fraser, whose mirth became the origin of the saying “laughing your head off”.

Mr Nevin cast doubt on popular portrayals of Lovat, however, insisting opposing views had been overlooked.

He has adapted the words of the warrior poet John Roy Stuart, an officer in the Jacobite army and Fraser’s long time friend, into a new play.

John Roy Stuart – Culloden Day, premiered at The Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh this week on the anniversary of the Battle of Culloden, April 16.

Mr Nevin, who has studied John Roy’s poems and letters, written in both Gaelic and English, said the play told Fraser’s story through the eyes of his ally.

He added: “John Roy was a friend of Lord Lovat for more than 30 years and his poems and letters tell the story of his life. The play is all in John Roy’s words, weaved into the narrative.”

Nevin challenged Lord Lovat’s reputation for violence and also accusations of rape and forced marriage, suggesting this was “part of a plot” against him.

He said: “Following the early death of his cousin Hugh Fraser, 9th Lord Lovat, the family of Hugh’s widow, Amelia Murray, claimed that he had left his titles and estates to one of their allies.

“When this claim was challenged by Simon, the Atholl Murrays sent a ‘Commission of Fire and Sword’ into the Fraser lands and seized them by force.

“Simon led a company of Fraser clansmen who surrounded the Athollmen during the night and forced them to surrender at dawn.

“Unlike at Glencoe a few years earlier, not a drop of blood was shed, leading Lovat to adopt as his personal motto ‘Sine Sanguine Victor’ – Victor Without Bloodshed.

“The Atholl Murrays then pursued Lovat through the courts, alleging that he had raped and forced marriage on Amelia.

“These allegations leave a number of questions unanswered. Why, despite intense pressure from her family, did Amelia Murray resolutely refuse to testify against Lord Lovat? Why did she stay with him for several months after the alleged forced marriage until, under sentence of death, Lovat fled into exile? Why did she reportedly declare her love for him?

“Then there is the curious position of His Grace the Duke of Argyll, who consistently supported Lovat during this period. Surely Argyll would have kept his distance from Lovat had he truly believed the lurid tales of debauchery put about by his arch rival for power and influence in Scotland, the Duke of Atholl.

“If Argyll believed these allegations to be false and part of a plot by the Atholl Murrays to seize Lovat’s titles and estates, then his support for Lovat becomes not only understandable, but justifiable.”

He added: “Some forty years later, in September 1745, John Roy was sent by Prince Charlie to Castle Dounie to persuade Lord Lovat to throw in his lot with the Jacobite Rising.

“However, Lovat is wary of committing himself because, should the Rising not be successful, it could have severe consequences for his entire clan.

“He instead agrees to a compromise whereby his son and heir, the Master of Lovat, will raise a Fraser Regiment for the Prince, but without his explicit support.

“Lord Lovat’s ambiguous position has been taken as further evidence of his duplicity. However, it was no different to the position taken by a number of other leading Scottish families at that difficult time, with one son rising for the Prince while the other stayed at home, so that the family would survive whatever the outcome.

“A man should never be judged solely by allegations made by his enemies. The views of his friends should also be taken into account.

“Seen through John Roy’s eyes, Lord Lovat emerges as a more sympathetic, and even in some respects heroic, figure than commonly portrayed in works of fiction and conventional histories.

“This may be an appropriate moment to re-appraise Lord Lovat’s picaresque life and legacy.”

Neil Critchley, Hearts’ head coach, said the narrow, 2-1, extra-time, defeat in the Scottish Gas, Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden Park was a difficult one to take because of the way the game finished, Aberdeen snatching the winner inside the final two minutes of extra time.

Critchley (pictured) said: “I am gutted for the team and the supporters.”

However, the Englishman, who must prepare the side to host Dundee on Saturday (15.00) in their first William Holl Premiership game after the split, added: “We have to move on. We have to finish the league in a positive fashion by winning as many games as we can.”

The coach was pleased with the way his men started the game in Glasgow and he described it as “a real positive fashion”, however, he was frustrated that Hearts conceded a poor goal from Aberdeen’s first real “moment” in the Jambos final third.

Critchley said: “I thought we responded brilliantly well and we were the better team. The sending-off changed the game but, even with ten men, I thought we were fantastic. Every man showed real character, defended with good organisation and we still carried a threat.

“Sometimes you need a little bit of luck, or for the football gods to be smiling on you, and the least we deserved was to take it to penalties. That opportunity was taken away from us.”

Critchley said he had no words to make the players feel any better, but he added: “They gave what I class as a Hearts performance, full of heart, full of grit, full of determination, character, spirit and, not without ability either.”

The former Blackpool boss said he had to make a “really difficult decision” at half-time around the formation for the second half following the red card shown to defender Michael Steinwender.

Hearts removed forwards James Wilson and Elton Kabangu and replaced them with defensive duo, Frankie Kent and Craig Halkett, a move which some, he declared, might sound negative, but he countered: “We felt that gave us the best chance of staying in the game and to make it difficult for Aberdeen.

“I thought the players did that magnificently well. We frustrated them to very little, we carried a threat and Craigy (Craig Gordon) made a magnificent save in the first-half of extra time, the only real chance the Dons had.”

Thanking the over 21,000 fans who made the trip along the M8, Critchley said: “You want to make people happy, they got behind the team, they travelled in numbers, you see what it means to them, the passion and I like to think we gave them a passionate performance. It is so hard to take when you don’t see them celebrating at the end, they deserved that.”   

POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE: 11am 20/425 “Selim El-Syed, 56 missing from Edinburgh has been traced.

“Thanks for the likes and shares.”

Police are appealing for information to help trace Selim El-Syed missing from Edinburgh.

He was last seen around 7pm last night Saturday, 19 April, 2025 in East Hermitage Place.

He is 5’4” with black receding hair and of medium build and usually wears a green scarf on his head.

Inspector Richard Homewood said: “We are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of Selim and want to trace him as soon as possible.

“He is known to travel to Peebles and Perth.

“Anyone who knows where he is should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3312 of 19 April, 2025.”

Police Scotland are looking for artists and local community groups to assist with the Calder Road Graffiti Project. 

The project, which is aimed at improving feeling of safety in the area for locals, has progressed this week.  

A mural with a video game vibe has been created through funding from @Edinburgh_Council and @communityalcoholpartnerships, working with students from @edinburghcoll. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: ”Thanks to the excellent art work from @calumcarr @mmickyywho and @iamant1 . 

“We are looking for more artists and local community groups, youth and adult, to be involved.  

“If interested please email EdinburghCPT@scotland.police.uk 

Almost 700 people have been prosecuted over road traffic offences involving electric scooters in the last four years, new figures show.

Data shows that 664 people have faced court over incidents involving e-scooters since 2020/2021 despite the machines being illegal to ride on any public road or pavement in Scotland.

Critics blamed the SNP’s “soft touch justice” for the surging numbers flouting the law by openly riding e-scooters, and have called for a crackdown.

Data obtained under Freedom of Information from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) underlines the scale of the menace posed by the illegal use of e-scooters across the country.

The majority of prosecutions were reported in the three years between 2021-22 (231), 2022-23 (192) and 2023-24 (205). Underlining the sharp rise, there were only 36 prosecutions in 2020-21.

Two people were prosecuted under the specific charge of “dangerous driving”, where an accident or injury was caused, with one in 2021-22 and the other in 2023-24.

COPFS say the data may include a number of charges where the e-scooter was not the cause of the offence, such as where “someone driving a car collides into and injures someone riding an e-scooter”.

Although e-scooters are banned from public places, they have become a common sight in towns and cities, with unregulated riders of all ages, including children, sparking safety concerns.

Scottish Conservative shadow minister for community safety Sharon Dowey MSP said the figures exposed how the illegal use of e-scooters has soared

Ms Dowey said: “Soft-touch SNP ministers cannot turn a blind eye to this activity which is becoming increasingly responsible for a spate of serious incidents.

“Ministers must show some common sense and ensure Police Scotland have the resources to crack down on these potentially dangerous vehicles and punish those who use them recklessly.”

Christine Jardine, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, said: “E-scooters have seen a boom in popularity in the last few years and unfortunately that means we are also seeing more and more examples of dangerous incidents involving them.

“We need to see the police focus on tackling antisocial behaviour and dangerous driving involving these scooters and rapid e-bikes because people are worried about the risk of serious accidents.”

Police Scotland is under pressure to crack down on scooter louts who cause misery to pedestrians and road users, by emulating forces south of the border and adopting a “seize on sight” policy.

UK forces such as Derbyshire, Hampshire & Isle of Wight and South Yorkshire are confiscating e-scooters “immediately” to reduce numbers of the potentially lethal machines blighting communities.

The “seize first” approach means e-scooters are being confiscated without warnings for first offences to combat anti-social behaviour and crime. Hundreds have been sent to the crusher.

In addition to anti-social behaviour, there has also been a rise in the vehicles being used to commit serious crimes, and collisions involving serious injuries.

Police Scotland has been criticised for failing to enforce the law that says e-scooters can only be ridden legally on private land with the owner’s consent and bans them from public roads and areas.

The AA motoring organisation says police forces across the UK are being “challenged by lawless e-scooter riders” they say threaten the safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians due to riders speeding and drug driving, as well as ignoring road signs and traffic lights.

They say weak law enforcement only serves to emboldens riders.

Spokesman Luke Bosdet said: “The rampant illegal use of e-scooters stems partly from ignorance of the law and partly from the perception that there is little chance of being collared.

“Much of the latter is down to police resourcing and therefore traces much of the blame back to the financing from government. More cops in cars would help tackle a number of persistent, illegal and dangerous behaviours that need a strong message that they won’t be tolerated.

“Other police forces around the UK are stretched with resourcing and approach the menace of illegal e-scooters by launching targeted blitzes of problem areas.

“As well as confiscating the e-scooters and therefore denying riders the ability to offend, it sends a clear message as to what is allowed and what isn’t.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “E-scooters are illegal on public roads, pavements and other public places.

“Current legislation means they are an unauthorised vehicle and cannot be insured.

“They can only be used lawfully on private land with permission from the landowner. Their illegal use can impact local communities and anyone with concerns should contact us so a proportionate policing response can be provided.

“Anyone purchasing an e-scooter has a responsibility to be aware of the law and the implications of using one in a public place.

“Enforcement action includes having your e-scooter seized and you may be fined.”

Garden owners in Edinburgh are urged to take part in a survey of blackbirds, to help monitor a killer virus linked to their decline.

The recent appearance of the mosquito-borne Usutu virus has been linked to the steep decline of the popular songbird in London and the southeast.

First identified in South Africa, the spread of the virus, which can be fatal to blackbirds, was first detected in England in the summer of 2020. Concerns are growing as it appears to be spreading, linked to climate change, and could eventually reach Scotland.

Scientists from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) want to understand the spread of Usutu virus and its potential impacts in other UK cities compared to smaller urban and rural areas.

The Blackbirds in Gardens Survey launched last year to try to map the rate of the species’ decline in London and to see whether similar population slumps were occurring elsewhere across the UK.

Initial results showed a north-south divide, with signs that blackbirds were doing better in the north, and particularly north-west England and in Scotland, while they continue to struggle in London and the wider south-east.

Researchers want more garden owners throughout the UK to get involved in this year’s survey, which runs until September, to help identify further notable changes.

Hugh Hanmer, Senior Research Ecologist with BTO said: “Blackbird numbers have been noted to be decreasing in Greater London for some time. However, from 2020 they started declining more strongly, which coincided with the detection of Usutu virus, which can be fatal for these familiar birds. There is now evidence of a wider decline in Southern England, not seen in other UK regions.

“This survey seeks to understand why this change is happening and if it is linked to the spread of Usutu, by better understanding how blackbirds use our gardens.”

He added: “At this stage there is no evidence to suggest that Usutu virus is affecting blackbirds in Scotland. However, the rate of impact detected in southern England, and especially around London, gives us real cause for concern.

“We need people to help us gather data about blackbirds in Scottish gardens, particularly those in more urban and suburban areas, so that we may be able to understand why blackbirds are doing so much worse in London compared to elsewhere.”

The survey will help BTO scientists better understand how blackbirds’ use of different garden types varies, disease transmission risk, and how successfully young are raised, at different levels of urbanisation, from rural to urban gardens.

Usutu is typically spread by bird-biting mosquitoes, which rarely bite humans. When it does occur, human infection is often asymptomatic, and there have been no human cases of Usutu detected in the UK to date.

Although the risk to humans from Usutu virus is extremely low, this is the first time in modern history that a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis — a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans — has emerged in the UK.

The BTO survey is part of a wider partnership project, run with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

The project, Vector-Borne RADAR, is funded by UK Research and Innovation and Defra to understand the emergence and transmission of mosquito-borne viruses of wild birds in the UK, which are expected to increase as a result of climate change.

Dr Arran Folly, senior scientist with APHA and Vector-Borne RADAR project lead, said: “With Usutu virus now endemic in southeast England, outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases are expected to grow in the UK, especially as temperatures rise due to climate change.

“Through our Vector-Borne RADAR project, we are working to gain a clearer picture of emerging mosquito-borne viruses.

“The insights from BTO’s Blackbirds In Gardens survey will be essential for understanding how this virus might be impacting blackbird populations. I encourage all garden owners to get involved and help us track this virus.”

BTO is asking for anyone with access to a garden to take part in the Blackbirds in Gardens survey, which runs until September. People can sign up at www.bto.org/blackbirds

First Minister John Swinney will gather political, faith and community leaders to a meeting later this week to examine the resilience of Scotland’s democracy.   

All will be brought together to assess the robustness of Scotland’s democratic system by examining root causes that might undermine shared values – now and in the future.  

The First Minister hopes to find agreement on a set of principles that can strengthen and protect the country’s democratic foundations. 

The discussion will be centred on four key themes, each moderated by a civic leader: 

• Combating inequality and discrimination. 
• Tackling disinformation and ensuring a trusted media environment. 
• Enhancing trust in politics and boosting the accountability of political leaders and democratic institutions. 
• Strengthening vigilance to electoral interference and encouraging more active democratic participation.  

The First Minister said: “Government has a clear role to play in protecting the health of our democracy. 

“Across the world, we can see democratic systems under pressure, with fundamental principles being challenged and, in some cases, actively undermined. Scotland is not immune, so we must ensure we are prepared.  

“As First Minister, I want to bring people together to help shape our response to these threats, and make sure we work together to protect and strengthen the democratic values that underpin who we are as Scots.  

“Bringing together political, faith and community leaders will enable a discussion about key issues such as tackling misinformation, strengthening trust in politics, combating electoral interference, and ensuring Scotland’s democracy delivers equality.  

“It will provide the initial foundation that will ensure Scotland has united leadership on values and principles that can help guide us in this age of uncertainty.” 

Kihavah once more proved his versatility when scooping the £100,000 Virgin Bet Queen’s Cup at Musselburgh.

Ridden by P J McDonald from Co. Wexford and trained by Adrian Keatley, he gamely held off Aimeric by a head.

The smiling jockey, P J McDonald. said: “He’s super genuine and this time last week he was running in the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr.

“He took me everywhere I wanted to go and credit must go to Adrian and his team.

“He’s got three wins over hurdles and that’s now six on the Flat. Last year was superb and he went so close for me when second in the Ebor.”

Jim Goldie’s American Affair showed a devastating turn of foot to land the Virgin Bet Daily Price Boosts Scottish Sprint Cup under Paul Mulrennan.

The 7/2 chance was switched round a wall of horses to power home three-quarters of a length ahead of JM Jungle.

“I think he’s a bit stronger this year and he can’t half quicken,” Goldie reported. “Paul was trapped on the rail and he had to come four wide but he got him out of trouble no problem.

“He was favourite for last year’s Ayr Gold Cup but he ran too free. I think he’s more of a five-furlong horse and has too much speed for the Ayr Gold Cup – we might even look at the Group 1 King Charles 111 Stakes at Royal Ascot over the minimum trip.”

Charlie Johnston-trained Thunder Wonder stormed home under Joe Fanning in the Livescore Bet Best Odds Daily Royal Mile Handicap.

“He ran well on his comeback at Southwell and built on that today,” Fanning said. “He’s quickened again when they came to us and won well in the end.”

A biting east wind and driving rain did not deny vice-captain Andy Allan a victory in the annual match to welcome in the new season at Dalmeny Estate Golf Club.

Allan plus Brenda Bell and Ian Souza ran out winners in the nine-hole Texas Scramble.

Both teams scored plus four but Andy’s team prevailed due to their higher handicaps.

Those who played said it was a tough challenge in poor conditions, but they were glad to get out on the course prepared by Wullie Ruffle.

Some members had to borrow extra clothing before of the conditions but Brenda Bell said: “Worst weather ever, the waves were whipping up onto the course.”

Allan said: “Proud first outing in the vice-captain position.”

Police are appealing for information following a crash in Musselburgh. 

Around 4.15pm yesterday, Friday, 18 April, 2025,a black MG HS was being driven northwest on Haddington Road before it collided with a 17-year-old female pedestrian.  

Emergency services attended and the teenager was taken to hospital where medical staff described her condition as critical.  

The 37-year-old male driver of the car was also taken to hospital.  

He was also arrested in connection with the incident.  

The male passenger, a 43-year-old man, did not require medical treatment. 

The road was closed to allow collision investigators to conduct enquiries.  

Sergeant Dominic Doyle said: “We are working to establish the full circumstances of this incident and I would ask anyone who has yet to speak to us to get in touch.  

“All details are important, even if they seem insignificant, please do pass them on. If you have any information regarding the collision or saw the vehicle prior to the collision, please do contact us.” 

Anyone with any information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2415 of Friday, 18 April 2025. 

Brave Hearts travelled back along the M8 from Hampden Park after another major blow in their season, a 2-1 defeat by Aberdeen in the first Scottish Gas, Scottish Cup semi-final after being reduced to nine men.

Michael Steinwender walked after a red card in the first half and Cammy Devlin followed as injury time in extra time loomed.

Lawrence Shankland levelled at 1-1 to give the Jambos a chance but Hearts were broken when Oday Dabbagh netted in the dying minutes of extra time.

Neil Critchley’s men were magnificent in defence, with Craig Gordon producing several quality stops, but the loss of two players was too much and Aberdeen march on into their 17^th final.

They await either Celtic of St Johnstone while the Men in Maroon concentrate on finishing what has been a disappointing season by competing in the bottom six of the William Hill Premiership.

Earlier, Shankland was back in the side against one of his former clubs alongside Elton Kabangu and teenager James Wilson. In-form Aberdeen switched their goalkeeper, Dimitar Mitov returning with Ross Doohan on the bench.

Jamie McCart had a chance after a Mitov fumble at the first corner of the match after two minutes, but the defender sent the ball agonisingly wide of the Aberdeen right-hand post and the Jambos continued to threaten.

James Penrice darted down the left but the danger was cleared and Kabangu had a sight of goal after the ball was won in midfield by Beni Baningime who fed Wilson. Kabangu’s shot was blocked.

Shankland drifted to the right and sent in a testing ball which was again cleared by the Dons rearguard,

Then Penrice battled his way into the Aberdeen box and the ball was sent for a corner, but Mitov gathered comfortably in his six-yard box.

Slackness in the Dons defence meant Hearts maintained their dominance of possession, but they had so far failed to turn that advantage into a goal.

Pasey Topi Keskinen, however, always looked a threat against young Adam Forrester and he won a corner deep in Jambos territory on the left. The in swinging corner found Papa Gueye who bulleted a header towards goal. It bounced back off the bar and it nestled in the back of the net after hitting the back of Craig Gordon, Hearts’ goalkeeper. The veteran international was credited with an own goal, time 17minutes.

Eight minutes later, Keskinen picked up the ball on the left edge of the penalty box but shot wide, a warning for Hearts, then Cammy Devlin saved the day when Morris shot for goal with Gordon struggling to get back into his six yard box. The Aussie flicked the ball to safety, a big let off for the Jambos.

But Hearts hit back seconds later through Shankland after 28 minutes. The captain rammed the ball home from six yards from an angle with his right foot after a Penrice cross was missed by the Aberdeen defence, his fifth of the season.

That brought the travelling fans to life and Kabangu picked up the ball after a move involving Jorge Grant and Wlson, but his back was to goal and the chance was snuffed out.

At the other end, Michael Steinwender was in the right place at the right time to head a dangerous ball for a corner. Leighton Clarkson’s first delivery was cleared and he went short with his second, but a mistake meant the ball was sent to the other end of the pitch. Devlin and Shinnie clashed but a quick check ruled out a penalty.

The Men in Maroon, however, kept up their pressure as the break loomed. Hearts had started the game strongly and were finishing strongly but, two minutes from half-time, disaster for Hearts. The speed of Keskinen forced Steinwender to lunge into a challenge just over the half-way line and John Beaton brandished the red card as it was judged as a goal-scoring opportunity. Steinwender covered his face with his maroon shirt as Neil Critchley, Hearts’ head coach, was forced into changes as the match swung in Aberdeen’s favour.

Frankie Kent, who has been sidelined since December with injury, was told to get ready for action as ten-man Hearts tried to shore up their rearguard and the Capital combine’s fans voiced their disappointment as Beaton signalled the end of an eventful first half.

Kent made his comeback and Craig Halkett joined him on the pitch with Wilson and Kabangu left in the dressing-room. Hearts retrenched to a back five but Shankland had a chance after a high ball was won by Kent in the Dons’ box. The Scotland striker was off balance as the ball came to him and he sent it wide.

At the other end, Ante Palaversa sent in a tremendous cross and Gueye flashed a header inches wide of Gordon’s right-hand post, a scare, but Critchley’s men survived.

The Jambos were not out of this contest and McCart headed over from a Penrice corner and Penrice dashed down the left, crossing into the box, and Forrester lashed the ball over.

Aberdeen made a change, Hibs-bound Jamie McGrath came off the bench as Jimmy Thelin looked for more urgency from his men, Palaversa made way. Minutes later Clarkson sent a ball towards goal and it took a wicked deflection. Gordon could only watch and hope that the ball would go wide. It did.

Devlin was then booked for a foul of Gueye after 76 minutes and Stephen Kingsley, another recent injury victim, was then introduced for Forrester. Alexander Jensen was next into the book after a foul on the left but Grant’s free-kick was an opportunity wasted by a poor delivery.

Keskinen and Gueye came off  and the Dons introduced Oday Dabbagh and Jeppe Okkels from the bench but the side from the Granite City huffed and puffed in the final third of the pitch against the dogged Jambos who stuck to their task.

The fans continued to urge their men forward as the clock ticked down and the Dons threatened again, but McCart nodded the ball to safety. Penrice and Beningme worked an opening and Penrice had a chance on his right foot. The ball flew over.

Sandar Kartum came on to replace hard-working Grant for Hearts with just over 86 minutes gone and, as the clock ticked into three minutes of injury time, McGrath flashed a shot high and wide.

The Dons pressed for the game-winner but Hearts stayed strong. Alfie Dorrington was booked for a heavy challenge on Kartum mid-way into Hearts half but Beaton signalled the end of a game in which the Maroon defence had been outstanding.

Dante Polvara was sent on for Morris as the Dons looked for something different to unlock the Jambos rearguard and, eventually, they found more space as the Men in Maroon tired. Critchley’s men were penned in, and Dabbagh let fly with his left foot from 16 yards. The ball flew through a ruck of players and Gordon saw it late but gathered it low to keep the scoreline level. A sensational stop.  

Animated Critchley issued instructions on the touchline to his men and the game re-started but Dorrington lasted seconds before going down with a leg injury. Jack Milne came on for the seven times winners of the competition.

The Jambos, who have lifted the cup on eight occasions, resumed their rearguard action and Jensen side-footed the ball wide when in a good position on the right. He had plenty of time but finished poorly.

McCart cleared from inside the box as Musa Drammeh got ready to come on. Shankland suffered cramp and was unable to shake it off. Musa was introduced and Penrice was felled by Mats Knoester. He received a yellow card.

The Dons persisted and Gordon and Penrice had to make last-gasp saves as Thelin’s men upped the tempo.

A second major blow came when tenacious Devlin received a second yellow with four minutes left. He attempted to clear the ball but clipped a Dons player leaving the Jambos with only nine men.

Jenson made way for Fletcher Boyd but the game-winner came seconds later and it was Dabbagh who pounced after another great save from Gordon, the striker firing home with his right foot from inside the six-yard box. A massive moment for the Aberdeen team. Time 118 minutes.

Blair Spittal replaced Baningime as four minutes of injury time were added and Aberdeen passed the ball around as Hearts chased the ball. It was all over and the Dons celebrated as the Jambos faithful left the ground.

SUPERB GORDON: The veteran goalkeeper (right) made a series of great saves to deny Aberdeen at Hampden. Picture Nigel Duncan 

The fun race at Musselburgh was run at noon with sixteen runners on their wee short legs.

The winner was four-year-old Juno from Portobello who is photographed with owner Alisdair Tew in an almost photo finish between three dogs. Coming close behind was number 8 Rodney the 2023 winner and third was number 3 Daisy.

Judy Murray was on hand with the starter’s flag. She said after the race: “That was great fun. There were a lot more corgis than there were the last time. Some know exactly what they’re doing and some who just want to bite the butt off some other dog. It’s a bit of carnage but a lot of fun. I am a dog person but more of a big dog person like a Golden Retriever.”

Alisdair’s fiancée Fran Brandon set the pup running towards him and despite some attacking behaviour from the other runners, Juno won the day – and a lot of treats to take home.

In Army Green colours, Juno – in Roman mythology the Queen of Gods – proved she was in fact the Queen of Dogs as she took royal command of the race which is run over 70 metres, roughly one-third of a furlong.

In the Parade Ring as Juno savoured her victory, owner Alisdair said: “We trained her for this last year but this year we just resorted to just letting her chasing things, particularly seagulls on Porty Beach and that has paid off.”

Holding some treats, he added: “Juno is always ready for treats – that is probably why she won. We would love to come back next year.”

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “This amazing race just grows in popularity each year. What started off as a bit of fun and what we thought would be a one-off is becoming a huge attraction and something of an institution.

“It was an extremely competitive race and a well-deserved victory by lovely Juno but congratulation to all owners and their corgis who took part.”

All photos Alan Simpson

DINOSAUR footprints found on Scotland’s “Jurassic island” by a University of Edinburgh student have revealed for the first time how the carnivorous ancestors of Tyrannosaurus rex mingled with herbivorous sauropods.

The tracks on the Isle of Skye show that the massive meat-eating apex predators and lumbering plant-eating dinosaurs drank together from shallow freshwater lagoons on the island 167 million years ago.

The 131 footprints found so far at Prince Charles’s Point on the Trotternish Peninsula make the site one of the largest of its kind in Scotland.

The dominance of three-toed footprints from carnivorous cousins and ancestors of T. rex make the site one of the rarest in the world.

The discovery has given scientists invaluable insights into the environmental preferences and behaviours of dinosaurs from the Middle Jurassic period, around 180 million to 160 million years ago.

The location is “rich with footprints from jeep-sized megalosaurs”, whose 45cm long feet and walking gait indicate a hip-height of around 1.8m.

Alongside these are the large, flat, circular foot impressions of plant-eating sauropods made by a long-necked dinosaur thought to have been up to 20 metres in length and “two or three times the size of an elephant” walking at around half the speed of a human.

Analysis of the multi-directional tracks and walking gaits indicate that these dinosaurs milled around the margins of the “bustling lagoon”, similar to how animals congregate around watering holes today.

The footprints suggest that, regardless of dominance, the meat-eating theropods — two-footed carnivores — and plant-eating sauropods — four-legged herbivores — habitually spent time in lagoons as opposed to exposed drier mudflats.

The first three footprints were discovered five years ago by University of Edinburgh student Tone Blakesley and colleagues.

Subsequent footprint discoveries made the site one of the most extensive dinosaur track sites in Scotland, with scientists expecting to find more.

The research team took thousands of overlapping photographs of the entire site with a drone.

Using specialist software, they then reconstructed digital 3D models of the footprints via a method called photogrammetry.

The research, published in PLOS One, was funded by the Leverhulme Trust and National Geographic Society.

Research lead Blakesley, a Masters in Palaeontology and Geobiology graduate from the School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, said: “Thanks to our research we now know that large megalosaurs and sauropods once roamed across a shallowly submerged lagoon margin, set in the heart of this vast river delta spanning as far as the eye could see.

“When you look at these (footprints) today it’s just amazing to think that they are 167 million years old because they just look like they’ve been made yesterday.

“Although we will never get to see the dinosaurs that left these footprints, what we do have is a valuable record of their existence in Scotland during the Middle Jurassic.”

He added: “The footprints at Prince Charles’s Point provide a fascinating insight into the behaviours and environmental distributions of meat-eating theropods and plant-eating, long-necked sauropods during an important time in their evolution.

“On Skye, these dinosaurs clearly preferred shallowly submerged lagoonal environments over subaerially exposed mudflats.”

Skye is known as the “Jurassic Island” or “Dinosaur Isle” due to its rich heritage of fossil sites. Skye is the only place in Scotland from which dinosaurs have been found, and is particularly famous for discoveries from the Middle Jurassic period.

The remote bay takes its name from Bonnie Prince Charlie, who sought shelter on the shoreline on 21 June 1746 while being pursued by British troops following his defeat at the battle of Culloden.

Steve Brusatte, Personal Chair of Palaeontology and Evolution from the School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, said: “Prince Charles’s Point is a place where Scottish history and prehistory blend together. It’s astounding to think that when Bonnie Prince Charlie was running for his life, he might have been sprinting in the footsteps of dinosaurs.”

Dugald Ross, curator at the Staffin Museum, who was present when the first three footprints were discovered, said: “It gives me a lot of satisfaction that these footprints have been found so close by. It has really awakened the attention of not just academics but also local people.”

Sixteen runners (no riders) took part in the Musselburgh Racecourse Famous Corgi Derby on Saturday.

The race only took a third of a furlong – the course was 70 metres from end to end.

Tennis coach and former Strictly star, Judy Murray, (mother of Duncan), raised the starter’s flag to set the wee legs running.

The winner was four-year-old Juno from Portobello in an almost photo finish between three dogs. Coming close behind was number 8 Rodney the 2023 winner and third was number 3 Daisy.

The participants were:

The 2023 champ Rodney (8) owned by Matt Kendall and Nicole Whiteside

The 2022 champ Georgie Rumbles (11) is only four-years-old and owner Alison Rumbles

Musselburgh’s own Merlin (12) described as a shameless flirt by owners Sam Benson and Andrew Marks

Teddy (1) yellow

Toffee (2) brown

Rupert (3) orange

Sofie (4) light pink

Lola (5) coral

Daisy (6) hot pink

Chester Barkington (7) from Yorkshire red

Rodney (8) burgundy

Nash (9) has come from Gourock with Owner Thomas Wilson aqua blue

Belay (10) turquoise

Georgie Rumbles (11) royal blue

Merlin (12) navy blue

Pennybun (13) described by owner Xander Elliards as a “plump little mushroom” lime green

Juno (14) Army green

Graham (15) bottle green

Pippin (16) lilac

Georgie Scott (17) purple was a non-starter

Official starter Judy Murray was also on hand to send off the Mini Queen’s Cup at 1pm with young children competing on Happy Hoppers for Easter prizes.

The winner was Fia who was wearing pale pink colours.

Shoppers at Tesco can help a fundraising campaign which supports medical research into food allergies. 

For the sixth year running, Tesco is partnering with The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation to promote awareness of food allergies.    

During Allergy Awareness Week (21^–28 April), Tesco stores in Edinburgh will donate 10p to the charity from the sale of more than 151 Free From and Tesco allergy medication products bought in store or online.  

Edinburgh customers will also have the opportunity to round up their shopping to the nearest £1 at self-service checkouts from 21 April to 4 May.  

All the money raised will help Natasha’s Foundation to improve the lives of people affected by food allergies.   

The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation was set up in 2019 by Tanya and Nadim Ednan-Laperouse OBEs, following the tragic loss of their 15-year-old daughter Natasha, who had a fatal allergic reaction to a baguette containing sesame seeds that were not listed on the packaging. 

Through campaigning, education and research, the charity’s mission is to #MakeAllergyHistory, in particular food allergy.  

Natasha’s Foundation is the only allergy charity dedicated to medical research, with the aim of understanding what is causing the dramatic rise in allergic disease – and developing ways to prevent, treat and ultimately eradicate it. 

With support from Tesco, Natasha’s Foundation launched its Allergy School programme earlier this year, providing expert-led resources to create inclusive and safe environments for children with food allergies.  
 Nadim and Tanya said: “We’d like to thank Tesco and its customers for their continued support of Natasha’s Foundation. Food allergies are not a choice or lifestyle preference, they are a serious, unpredictable medical condition that impacts the lives of millions of people in this country. For some, they are life-threatening.  

“Previous donations from Tesco have helped us to raise awareness and understanding of food allergies, fund medical research and be a voice for the allergy community. Thank you for your on-going support and allowing us to continue this important work to improve the lives of people with food allergies.” 

Oonagh Turnbull, Head of Health Campaigns at Tesco, said: “We know customers are concerned about the potential dangers of food allergies, so we are proud to be working with the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation to raise awareness and fund potentially life-changing research. 

 “There is a wide range of products in our Free From range, from meals and desserts to snacks, all created with great taste but without any of the allergens. We welcome any shoppers to try these products or kindly round up their shopping at the self-service tills to help raise money for a fantastic cause.” 

Some of the products available in the Tesco Free From range include Tesco Finest Rigatoni Pasta, Tesco Free From Quiche Lorraine, Tesco Free From Red Berry Granola, Tesco Free From Confetti Cake and Tesco Free From Pepperoni Pizza. 

For more information on products available in the Tesco Free From range and for milk, egg, gluten and wheat free recipe ideas, please visit www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/zone/freefrom 

Known for its innovative immersive experiences, Six by Nico is preparing to take diners on an adventure in its newest offering Six Wonders of the World.

Prepare to embark on Six by Nico’s most immersive dining experience yet. Inspired by the mysterious disappearance of legendary explorer Nicolas Bogg, guests will follow in his footsteps through six iconic wonders of the world. With each course, diners receive a puzzle to help them find the missing treasure. Successful diners that crack the code also get entered into a prize draw for a massive £10,000. From ancient temples to mysterious cities, this culinary adventure transforms your meal into a mission, and every guest into an explorer.

The menu unfolds as a culinary journey across continents, beginning in Greece and Italy. The first course, Statue of Zeus at Olympia, evokes bold Mediterranean flavors with a black olive beignet, smoked beef, and ashed curds. This is followed by The Colosseum, a Roman-inspired dish of smoked pork belly, globe artichoke, fregola sarda, black garlic, and bitter chicory.From Europe, the journey heads across oceans. The third and fourth courses traverse new worlds—from the vibrant streets of Brazil to the ancient walls of China. Christ the Redeemer brings together scorched mackerel, zesty leche de tigre, grapefruit, and crisp turnips, offering a bright, refreshing contrast.

Next, The Great Wall of China presents an umami-rich composition of grilled bass, white kimchi, Asian cucumber, XO sauce, and a delicate lemongrass and ginger foam. The fifth course returns to the Indian subcontinent with the Taj Mahal—a decadent lamb makhani paired with masala chouriços, burnt pepper, and a punchy curry leaf and coconut pickle.

The journey and clues end in the sands of Egypt with The Great Pyramid of Giza, a dessert of bee pollen, honey parfait, sour yoghurt, brown butter, and burnt citrus, offering a sweet and smoky finish to an epic culinary adventure.

For the first time ever, Six by Nico is giving away a huge £10,000 prize — their biggest giveaway yet. Every diner who successfully solves the puzzles and finds the hidden treasure will be entered into a prize draw to win. The question is, do you have what it takes to crack the code? 

The Six Wonders of The World menu runs from April 21st to June 2nd 2025 across all UK & Ireland restaurant locations in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, London, Belfast, Dublin, Oxford, Cardiff and Bristol. Each tasting menu costs £46 per person, and guests can enhance their experience with an optional wine pairing for £30pp or a cocktail pairing for £40pp.

https://www.sixbynico.co.uk/

Aberdeen have cut Hibs’ away allocation for next week’s potential third place shoot-out at Pittodrie. 

It means that Hibs will receive just 792 tickets for the game on Saturday, April 26th. 

Hibs are currently in third place and are three points ahead of both Aberdeen and Dundee United who face champions elect Celtic at Tannadice that weekend and will take the title if they avoid defeat.  

With a third place finish likely to be hugely lucrative for European football next season if Celtic with the Scottish Cup, the Dons have reduced the visiting support and have kept block R in the South Stand back for additional home fans. 

Early career theatre makers are ready to display their work off in a showcase next week.

Over seven weeks, Hannah McGregor, Harry Walker, Margot Conde Arenas, Molly McGrath, Robbie
Hail and Taya Sian have been working with multi award-winning director Cora Bissett and a range
of practitioners to experiment, collaborate with one another and develop brand-new work for
the event at Assembly Roxy on Friday 25 April 2025.

Audiences can choose their own route for the event, experiencing the performances around the venue. The artists dissect identity and society’s role in shaping it through emotive love letters to childhood homes, journeys through family stories and the sea, the rediscovery of lost memories… or dealing with more recent ones.  

Cora Bissett, Lead Artist on the programme, is excited to be collaborating with the cohort:
“Young artists at the early stages of their career are the very people we need to be bold,
intrepid, resourceful, political, inventive and fearless – to keep culture thriving in Scotland.

“I am loving sharing the experience I have but also listening to and facilitating their ideas. I have been
extremely fortunate in my journey at various stages to have had elders like the late great
Dave MacLennan and the legendary Andy Arnold support me and my ideas when I was starting
out. Those elders gave me space and encouragement to try stuff out and grow in confidence.
It’s a privilege now to do that for this new generation.”

Trajectories is designed to fully support these 6 young artists through dedicated development
and rehearsal time, financial support and a tailored line-up of leading industry professionals.

Jacky Hardacre, Chief Executive of Scottish Youth Theatre, said: “We first delivered the Trajectories programme successfully in 2022 in Glasgow and we’re delighted to offer the opportunity again, this time in Edinburgh. Forging a path into a theatre career is fraught with challenges and the scaffolding Scottish Youth Theatre provides is needed
more than ever. The young artists and the performances they create inspire us to keep showcasing the sector’s newest voices.”

The public showcase event takes the form of a mini festival of performances around the venue.

Tickets start at an accessible £6 for the full event and are on sale on the Assembly Roxy website.
Trajectories is produced by Scottish Youth Theatre, supported by Creative Scotland’s National
Lottery Open Fund for Organisations and Thriplow Charitable Trust.

https://assemblyroxy.com/whats-on/263-trajectories

More than 120 police officers are preparing to deploy to Scotland’s communities following successful conclusion of their probationer training.

Police Scotland’s newest recruits marked the end of their training during a passing out parade at the Scottish Police College, Tulliallan, yesterday, Friday, 18 April, 2025.

The cohort of 121 were congratulated by Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors at the official ceremony in front of family and loved ones.

DCC Connors said: “Policing is a job like no other. It is a hugely rewarding and demanding vocation and I thank our new officers for their commitment to public service.

“They are stepping forward to improve the lives and wellbeing of Scotland’s communities by keeping people safe and bring offenders to justice.

“When they discharge their duties they will do so with integrity, fairness, respect and a commitment to uphold human rights.”

The intake comprises 72 male officers and 49 female officers.

If you are interested in a career with Police Scotland, please visit the recruitment section of their website.