Emergency grants worth £11.35 million will be split between football clubs in an agreement between the Scottish FA and the Scottish Government.

The funding will support clubs below Premiership level after the loss of spectator revenue due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, with £10 million coming from the Scottish Government’s emergency sports package that was announced earlier this month, and a further £1.35 million from the National Lottery.

Championship clubs will receive an equal share of £5 million, League One will receive £1.5 million and League Two will receive £1 million, with the remaining funds split between the lower leagues, women’s football and the affiliated national associations. The grants will be administered by the Scottish FA, which will receive the funding early next week.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “Football clubs are at the heart of their communities, but many of them have suffered real hardships as the necessary COVID-19 lockdown restrictions prevented them from playing in front of fans, or even playing competitively at all. This funding will help to ensure clubs are able to bridge the gap in revenue until spectators are able to return safely to sports events in larger numbers.

“I am delighted we are able to use this funding to support the entire football pyramid and provide valuable support where it is needed most. I would like to thank the Scottish Football Association for working constructively to reach this agreement, and to the National Lottery for the additional £1.35 million funding. Working in partnership we will support the clubs that have given us so much through this difficult time.”

Rod Petrie, Scottish FA President, said:“This announcement recognises the importance of our national sport at all levels of the senior game. We will work with the Scottish Government to ensure that the funding can be accessed by all clubs as efficiently as possible. ”

The Scottish Government has announced that the relaxation of restrictions over the Christmas period is being reined back.

Scotland will significantly tighten protections against Covid-19 to prevent the spread of the new, highly contagious strain of the virus.

Following confirmation that the new variant of Covid-19 spreads substantially more quickly, the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, announced that Scotland needs to act now. 

She held a media briefing earlier.

To keep people safe, Ms Sturgeon announced today:

• the planned easing of restrictions around Christmas will be limited to Christmas Day itself, and not the previous five day window that was planned
• legal household limits will still apply – a maximum of 8 people from 3 households – however advice is to minimise the numbers. Where possible, people should celebrate the festive period at home in their own household and meet with others outdoors
• other than for specific exemptions, travel between Scotland and the rest of the UK will not be legal
• travel within Scotland will be allowed on Christmas Day
• from Boxing Day, all of Scotland will have Level 4 restrictions applied, including the closure of non-essential retail and hospitality. The only exceptions will be Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles, and the other island communities where restrictions have been reduced in recent weeks, who will be placed in Level 3
• from Boxing Day, in line with existing law, travel across local authority boundaries between areas in Level 3 or 4 will not be legal other than for specific exempt purposes

The First Minister also set out new plans for the return of schools in the New Year. Teachers will return to work as planned and children of key workers and the most vulnerable children, will return to schools as planned.

For the majority of pupils the holiday period will be extended until 11 January 2021 and learning will begin online from then until at least 18 January 2021.

All these measures will be kept under regular review.

The First Minister said:“Last week it was confirmed that a new variant of the virus had been identified in the UK, and I advised Parliament that a small number of cases of it had already been identified in Scotland.

“While further analysis is required to establish this one way or another, we already have a concern that this strain may be driving what appears to be faster transmission in some hospitals and care homes.

“That’s why we have decided to act and to act firmly.

“Firstly, we are asking everyone to redouble your personal efforts in sticking to the rules and following FACTS.

“Secondly, we intend to maintain a strict travel ban between Scotland and the rest of the UK. This will remain in place throughout the festive period. We simply cannot risk more of this strain entering the country if we can possibly avoid it.

“Thirdly, we now intend to change the law to allow mixing indoors in a bubble on Christmas Day only. The household limits will still apply – a maximum of 8 people from 3 households  – is the law. But the advice will be to minimise numbers as far as possible.

“My message is stay home, stay safe and enjoy Christmas. That is in your own interest and the interest of everyone you love.”

Speaking about beyond Christmas, the First Minister said:“To limit, as far as we can, the risk of this strain spreading further than it has within Scotland, we intend to apply Level 4 measures to all of mainland Scotland for a period of three weeks from one minute after midnight on Boxing Day morning.

“The only exceptions will be Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles, and the other island communities where we have reduced restrictions in recent weeks, who will go into Level 3 but with strict restrictions on who can travel to and from those islands.

“The situation the new strain presents means that until we are sure it is firmly under control – until we are sure we are not facing the same situation as the south of England today faces, we must slightly change our plans for the way our schools work.

“Schools still open next week will close as planned – we are not changing that. They were then due to reopen from 5 January with all councils areas back by the 7.

“Instead of that, here is what we are ow going to do – for the children of key workers – such as nurses in our hospitals – schools will open and stay open as normal. They will also open as normal for the most vulnerable children. All teachers will also return to work as scheduled and planned. For the majority of pupils, however, the holidays are being extended until 11 January. Starting on that date, learning will be online until at least 18 January.

“After that, assuming we are confident we have the virus under control we will aim to reopen schools more fully but at least until then, schools will go online only other than for the children of key workers and the most vulnerable.”

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross said:“Families across Scotland will be devastated at these new measures, especially so close to Christmas.

“However, given the rapidly increasing spread of the virus across the UK, and until our scientists know more about the transmission of this new variant, it is understandable why these restrictions are necessary at this time.

“None of us want this, but these sacrifices will save lives.

“We would expect the Scottish Government to ensure a return to regional levels of restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard said: “The Scottish Government must make decisions based on public health advice and solid evidence.

“To win public confidence behind this significant tightening of restrictions requires persuasive evidence to be published, transparency and openness, and a substantial rise in testing, otherwise not only will there be disappointment there will be a heightened risk of non-compliance.”

Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “It’s clear that the increase in cases linked to a new strain are very concerning indeed. For weeks Scottish Greens have been raising the concerns of public health experts that the planned relaxation of restrictions would lead to a significant rise in infections of COVID-19, so in the face of an even more transmissible strain this extra caution from the First Minister is necessary.

“If this is going to work, we need to step up the support for people self-isolating, especially for those on insecure income. This means widening the criteria for receiving financial support and offering accommodation where it is urgently needed.

“The staggered school return is also a sensible approach, one we had already been advocating. But it must be accompanied by the regular, routine COVID testing in schools which Parliament has voted for and which teachers are demanding, and clinically vulnerable staff must not be forced to put their lives on the line by coming into schools.

“Many people will be baffled that the Government is still insisting on opening schools for two days this week, and I would urge local authorities to close early to keep staff, pupils and communities safe.

“Pressures on the NHS are already on the rise, as it deals with winter workload and the roll out of the vaccine. The last thing we all need is for a surge in cases, just as we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Gatherings of friends and family will be all the more sweeter when this is all over.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said: “When the science speaks in such stark terms, the leadership of the country must listen and act. Shutting down mainland Scotland for three weeks will have a great impact on people’s lives, but it is the response that is necessary to match this new threat.

“However, the Scottish Government should act earlier by closing schools next week. The new strain of the virus is already here and pupils and teachers who are infected in school next week could pass it onto vulnerable relatives on Christmas Day. Let’s be safe and close the schools early.”

Rhea Wolfson of the GMB Scotland Women’s Campaigns Unit said: “The Scottish Government can’t wait until mid-January to roll out workplace testing for home carers – they need to find a way to bring this forward immediately.

“We can’t have 14,000 home carers in Scotland, supported only with PPE, working through a lockdown prompted by a more transmissible strain of COVID-19.

“Failure to act now to protect these key workers and their service users would be an exacerbation of the negligence they have already endured.” 

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Level 4 Meeting others indoors”] You should not meet anyone who is not in your household indoors in your home or in their home. You can meet another household indoors in a public place. The maximum number of people who can meet indoors in a public (not a home) place is 6 which can be from up to 2 separate households.
Children under the age of 12 from these households do not count towards the total number of people permitted to gather indoors in a public place but do count towards the maximum of 2 households permitted to meet. For example a children’s party with 10 children from more than 2 separate households would not be allowable, but 6 adults and 4 children from 2 households could meet.

Children under 12 do not need to maintain physical distance from others indoors.

Where an individual household includes more than 6 people, they can nevertheless meet as a single household even if the total number of people exceeds 6.

You can go into another household to provide care and support for a vulnerable person. This can include providing emotional support for someone whose wellbeing is at risk, including for those who are isolated because of disability or a caring situation. Read Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for unpaid carers

When you meet people from another household indoors you should:

minimise the number of meetings you have with people from other households each day

stay at least 2 metres apart from anyone who is not part of your household, unless in a public venue that is operating 1 metre distancing with additional measures being in place to avoid transmission

maintain hand and cough hygiene

avoid touching hard surfaces with your hands

wash your hands when you arrive, when you leave, when you get home and especially before eating or after touching surfaces

not share food or utensils – if eating, each household should bring, prepare and eat its own food separately

if possible, keep rooms well ventilated – consider opening windows or a door

Those at a higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus (including those who had been shielding, people 70 and over, people who are pregnant and people with an underlying medical condition) should strictly follow the physical distancing guidance.
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Level 4 Hospitality”] Restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars will be closed. Sectors guidance is at: sector guidance for tourism and hospitality
Takeaways can still operate as normal, provided food and drink is sold for consumption off premises. Face coverings and physical distancing rules must be followed.

Hotels and other accommodation providers can still serve food to qualifying guests i.e. key or exempt workers, staying in their premises up to 22:00. Room service, including alcohol, is allowed as normal.
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Level 4 Accommodation”] All holiday accommodation is closed to tourism. Hotels, B&Bs and self-catering can remain open for essential customers only:
anyone who is using that accommodation for work purposes

anyone who requires accommodation to attend a funeral

anyone who is providing accommodation or support services to the homeless

anyone who uses that accommodation as their main residence

anyone who needs accommodation while moving home

anyone who is unable to return to their main residence

anyone who requires accommodation to attend a marriage ceremony or civil partnership registration
anyone who requires accommodation to participate in or facilitate shared parenting arrangements
When providing accommodation to workers, this should only be open for essential workers who require accommodation as part of their role. Workers accommodation guidance.

Breaching the restrictions in the Regulations is a criminal offence, unless you have a “reasonable excuse” for doing so. This means that accommodation providers may offer accommodation to customers in other circumstances provided it is an essential purpose. An example of this would be where someone needs accommodation for an essential hospital visit.

In line with Competition and Markets Authority guidance, a full refund should be offered to customers who booked holiday homes, but could not stay in them due to lockdown restrictions. The regulation of consumer protection is the responsibility of the UK Government at Westminster. The Competition and Markets Authority has issued guidance to businesses and consumers about refunds
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Level 4 travel and transport”]You must not travel into or out of Level 3 and 4 local authority areas except for essential reasons. See further guidance on travel and transport and view maps of local authority area boundaries.
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Police Scotland has issued a statement following changes to restrictions over the festive period:

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said: “I fully understand that people will be disappointed with the tightening of restrictions, particularly at this time of year.

“The vast majority of the public have been complying with the regulations and so the policing approach we adopted from the outset of the pandemic will not change.

“Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance, and encourage compliance. We will use enforcement as a last resort where there is a clear breach of the legislation.

“The Chief Constable has called on people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.

“We have been very clear that we will not be routinely stopping vehicles or setting up road blocks. However, officers may in the course of their duties come across people who are travelling from one local authority area to another.

“Where travel restrictions apply, officers will continue to use the common sense, discretion and excellent judgement that they have applied since the crisis began.”

British Transport Police (BTP) has led the launch of a new shared database and crime mapping system to tackle metal crime across the UK.

The National Infrastructure Crime Reduction Partnership, led by BTP, has been working with the SmartWater Group and Opal, a national intelligence unit focused on serious organised acquisitive crime, to develop a range of tools that will improve how organisations will jointly tackle crime.

These include a national database for the metal industry, a national infrastructure crime and intel mapping system, along with a partnership approach to sharing data and intelligence to reduce crime.

Transport, power and telecommunications, are some of the sectors severely affected by metal crime. Heritage sites, including places of worship, are also increasingly being targeted with metal stolen from roofs and altars, causing irreparable structural damage and historic loss.

National infrastructure partners will now have the ability to see where crime is happening across the UK, not just for their organisation. The tools allow organisations to analyse the details and put measures in place to prevent crime happening in their industry. An alert system is also available to warn organisations of developing crime patterns ahead of any attack on the national infrastructure.

Mark Cleland, British Transport Police Superintendent and National Lead for Metal Crime, said: “Thanks to the support of SmartWater, we have taken the next step in creating the ability to map out criminality across the UK, enabling partners and law enforcement agencies to target those who present the greatest risk.

“These tools provide a greater pool of intelligence and a bigger picture of offender behaviour, allowing us to join the dots and deliver impact evidence to courts for sentencing.

“By taking a multi-agency approach, we are maximising our ability to identify those who are attacking our national infrastructure and historical buildings, making it harder for them to sell stolen metal and gain from their activities.”

Phil Cleary, CEO of the SmartWater Group said: “We are really excited to demonstrate a number of innovative tools that will support national infrastructure and policing in tackling crime across the UK.

“SmartWater and our partners are working together to form a national infrastructure crime reduction partnership that will drive activity to disrupt crime and reduce disruption of the UK’s important infrastructure. We are proud to be part of this work in supporting the country during these difficult times.”

The introduction of the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, which brought in strict licensing requirements on dealers and identity checks for people selling scrap metal, contributed to a significant decrease in metal theft. Despite this, crime has continued with some offenders taking advantage of a quieter network during the Covid-19 pandemic to target isolated locations.

BTP recently led a national week of action, involving more than 45 other organisations, in which the force provided training for officers from local forces, council staff and industry workers.

Officers made more than 500 visits to scrap metal dealers, vehicle dismantlers and illegal waste sites. More than 1,000 vehicles were stopped and there were 29 arrests across eight force areas, as well as 129 matters settled without prosecution, with 150 other alleged offences under investigation. 16 loads of stolen property were also recovered.

A West Lothian firefighter has told how his schoolgirl daughter helped him rescue a deer – armed with a bunch of carrots.

Station Commander Kevin Ketchen was at home when he received an emergency call to save the distressed animal that was trapped in railings.

But, just as he was dashing out the door, quick thinking Abby grabbed the root vegetables and handed them to her astonished dad.

The 15-year-old animal lover, who has three dogs and enjoys horse riding, knew that carrots would help to calm the frightened deer while the firefighting crew got to work.

The drama unfolded on Monday, December 14 after the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the emergency just one mile from SC Ketchen’s home in Mid Calder.

Abby, who attends West Calder High School, aptly named the deer Rudolph and is sure the rescuers saved Christmas.

SC Ketchen said: “I was at home when I was mobilised to the rescue in East Calder which Abby overheard.

“Before I left, Abby handed me the carrots and said ‘try these dad’ so I took them with me and I’m glad I did.

“I was at the scene first, before the arrival of Livingston Blue Watch and a heavy rescue unit.”

As a humanitarian organisation, SFRS crews use their technical training and expertise as well as specialist equipment to rescue animals. This can prevent members of the public placing themselves at risk by trying to effect their own rescue.

SC Ketchen continued: “The deer was trapped in a railings and was panicking.

“I laid the carrots down in front of the deer and it suddenly calmed down as it sniffed the vegetables.

“I was able to carry out a Dynamic Risk Assessment and provide a plan for the oncoming crews. When the crew arrived we got the spreaders to move the railings and I assisted in lifting the deer through the railings who very quickly ran away.

“The carrots really did work and it’s a good end to the story providing some good news at last in 2020!

“I am so proud of Abby and so is my wife Fiona – she is a credit to us both.”

The eastbound carriageway of the A720 Edinburgh City Bypass will be closed from Straiton to Sherrifhall from 20:30 until 06:00 on the night of Sunday 20 December.

This is to allow Transport Scotland’s operating company BEAR Scotland install traffic counters following resurfacing works competed during November.

During this closure a clearly signed diversion route will be in place, with eastbound traffic diverted via Straiton Junction, onto Lang Loan, turning right onto Lasswade Road, left onto Gilmerton Station Road, then right onto the A772 continuing to turn right onto the A7 where traffic can re-join the A720 at Sheriffhall Roundabout.

Strict physical distancing protocols, in line with Scottish Government guidance, are in place to protect teams and ensure they remain safe on site.

Consultation has been carried out with emergency services and relevant stakeholders to make them aware of the plans and share information about the project in advance.

Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s South East Network Manager, said: “We thank motorists and the local community in advance for their patience while we carry out this project.

“Due to the high volume of traffic using this section of the A720, we have no option but to close the road eastbound to ensure the safety of the workforce and members of the travelling public, however we’ll do all we can to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.”

Cameron Cunningham cast a line and hooked the Christmas hamper prize in the popular annual event hosted by Bass Rock Shore Angling League.

The fisherman from Port Seton beat a quality field to take the prize with a fish of 1lb 2oz on a difficult night for anglers.

Second was Jack Cameron with a fish weighing only eight ounces, underlining how tough conditions were for the field in the match fished on the Dunbar Harbour sea wall.

The win means that Cunningham moves into joint third position in the winter league table with 18 points alongside Dale McCallum also from Port Seton and Dunbar-based Alan Brown.

Second is Stuart Fairbairn from Haddington with 26 points while the clear leader remains Port Seton-based fisherman Barry McEwan with 38 points. There are five matches left in the series.

Meanwhile, Aquamarine Charters of Eyemouth have confirmed that there will be no angling or diving trips until February 1 following the new COVID-19 restrictions announced by the First Minister on Saturday.

Cod, some sizeable, have been landed recently, including one of over 8lbs by Paul Christie (pictured).

Jack Ross says he is ‘comforted’ by knowing that despite the limited size of his squad, he can count on everyone to contribute when selected as the club continue their hectic December schedule.

Hibs face Dundee United at Easter Road this afternoon in good form having won their last four games but Ross is taking nothing for granted and expects a tough 90-minutes against the promoted side.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference Ross said: “This is a challenging period that we go into like all clubs in terms of the frequency of the fixtures.

“We have a small squad in terms of numbers but the vast majority of them have contributed this season. That gives me comfort going into this period.

“It seems like a long time ago since we played them from early in the season after Mickey had taken the job and they should be hugely encouraged about the start they have made on their return to the Premiership.

“I know they will have ambitions to at least be in the position they are in at the moment or be higher.

“It will be a tough game as they all are in the Premiership and  think it’s a game we know we will have to play well to win but we go into the game with a good recent record and in good form.

“For us it’s about ensuring that we have that patience. We don’t always have to win the game in the first 15-minutes. There is an onus on us at home, even without fans, to dictate the game but it’s important to balance that out with having the patience and a trust in the play as well and the players are getting better at that.

“With each passing game that confidence and trust grows.”

When it was pointed out to Ross that Hibs could end the weekend in second place he responded: “It’s something (moving into second place) we won’t shy away from. We know we have the chance to back into that position (second) is there for us. The only way to do it obviously is to keep winning games.”

Kevin Nisbet, Alex Gogic (pictured) and Sean Mackie return to the squad after a period on the sidelines due to injury but Jamie Murphy and Scott Allan miss out.

Police are appealing for help from the public to trace a missing whale skull, belonging to a northern bottle nose whale and measuring 100 x 60 x 60cms, which was left on Cocklawburn Beach near Berwick-upon-Tweed in October.

Prior to this the 45kg skull had travelled the length of Scotland after being removed from a beach near Cape Wrath.

Washed onto the beach in 2018, the whale carcass was being monitored by the John Muir Trust with plans to remove the skull to National Museums Scotland to be studied.

It is illegal to possess any part of a whale, dolphin or porpoise without being licensed. Any remains belonging to these species should not be removed from coastal areas.

Northern bottle nose whales are a protected species, and rare visitors to Scottish waters.

Detective Sergeant Billy Telford, Police Scotland’s wildlife crime unit, said: “Whales, dolphin and porpoise are protected species in Scottish/UK coastal areas, and this includes their remains. People may not be aware that it is illegal to remove their remains from beaches and other coastal areas.

“This particular item had been earmarked for study. It is a rare example of this species in Scotland and therefore is of significant scientific interest to improve both our understanding of the species and its protection.

“It is a very big and unusual item and someone must know of its whereabouts. If you do then please contact Police Scotland so we can arrange for its return to the museum.”

Dr Andrew Kitchener, Principal Curator of Vertebrates at National Museums Scotland said: “It is important that this skull of a bottle nosed whale is returned so it can be added to the internationally significant collection of marine mammals which we hold at National Museums Scotland.

“Strandings of this mammal are rare and examples such as this can contribute greatly to the knowledge we hold about these incredible animals and provide a valuable resource to enable further future scientific study of the species and its ecosystem.”

Don O’Driscoll of the John Muir Trust said: “The Trust is not happy with the way the whale skull was taken from its land at Sandwood Bay and subsequently lost. We hope the police will be successful in finding it and that it may then be displayed at the National Museum for the benefit of the public. Exhibits like this are rare and provide an interesting insight into the anatomy of these specialised deep diving marine mammals.”

Former Hibs’ First Team Coach Robbie Stockdale has join Sam Allardyce at West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League.

Allardyce succeeded the sacked Slaven Bilic at West Brom, who are second-bottom having  won only one game all season against bottom club Sheffield United.

The former Middlesbrough defender teams up with ‘Big Sam; for a second time having worked with the Baggies boss during his successful stay at Sunderland before he moved to Easter Road, joining Paul Heckingbottom.

The pair were only at Hibs for nine months before being sacked following a poor start to the season when the club were third-bottom in the Scottish Premiership having not won in the league since the opening weekend of the season.

The Scotland international joins long-time Assistant Head Coach Sammy Lee, fellow First Team coach James Morrison and Goalkeeping Coach Gary Walsh on the coaching staff at the Hawthorns.

Whilst most commentators assume that Rangers and Celtic will occupy the top two spots at the end of the season, Hibs’ midfielder Kyle Magennis hasn’t given up hope of upsetting the apple cart.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference yesterday Magennis said: “We are obviously in such good form and we have big games coming up. We can go back second if we win on Saturday and I think we’re in good form and capable of doing that.

“I know people are looking at third and fourth place but I think we are capable of keeping winning games and you never know what can happen, maybe we can nick second place or first place.

“We are a few points off them now but you never know what can happen. You see St Mirren beating Rangers there, the Old Firm are capable of dropping points.

“We just need to go into every game looking as if we can take the three points and see what happens from there.

“The gaffer is always confident and that breeds into the boys. We are always confident that we are a good team and we have shown this season we have taken points against Celtic and Rangers, so we feel we are capable of going into every game and getting points.

“I’ve been training every day and feeling as fit as I have been and if the gaffer wants to play me for 90-minutes I’m more than happy to do so.”

Magennis came off the bench on Tuesday night with Hibs a goal down to Alloa in the Betfred Cup quarter-final and helped secure a memorable victory which resulted in a semi-final against St Johnstone next month.

With Rangers, Celtic and Aberdeen all eliminated Magennis sees no reason that the trophy won’t be returning to Leith.

When asked about that prospect he said: “All the boys are in good spirits, we are always confident that we can go into every game and win it, so why not? “Why not win the semi-final and go into the final and win that?

“I’m sure the four teams that are left in the tournament are going to be confident now that Rangers are out, but people will be looking at us as the favourites and we are confident about that.”

Police are asking dog walkers to be vigilant after becoming aware of concerns that tennis balls containing substances harmful to animals are being left on Hermitage of Braid and Braids Hill in Edinburgh.

It has been reported on local social media channels a number of dogs have become unwell after coming into contact with them.

Police have not received any formal reports regarding this matter, however will be making enquiries to establish more detail on the circumstances.

Sergeant Grant Robertson from Howdenhall Police Station said: “While we have not received any formal complaints in relation to this, we would urge anyone walking their dogs in this area to be on their guard and try to avoid tennis balls, or any other similar items left lying on the ground. 

“We would also ask anyone who believes their dog to have been affected to contact Police Scotland through 101 to report the matter.  If anyone has any specific information, we ask they email the local community policing team at EdinburghSouthEastCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk, or alternatively contact us via 101 as we would like to hear from you.”

In a sudden move earlier today the Lothians MSP Andy Wightman who was one of the increased cohort of Greens elected almost five years ago resigned from the party.

His action followed a vote on amendments to the Forensic Medical Services (Victims of Sexual Offences Bill) at Holyrood last week. Mr Wightman said that he felt the language and approach of the party had been provocative and confrontational for many women and men.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Greens said: “The Scottish Greens are focused on building a greener and fairer Scotland that tackles the climate emergency, so Andy Wightman’s decision not to be part of our movement anymore is a matter of deep disappointment.

“Land reform, empowering local democracy and community empowerment are core Green issues, and Andy’s contribution has been very important, but the Greens remain committed to carrying on this agenda without him.

“The Scottish Greens wish Andy well in whatever he decides to do next.”

The text of Mr Wightman’s letter to the co-leaders of the party is as follows:

Lorna Slater & Patrick Harvie MSP
Co-Leaders
Scottish Green Party
19b Graham Street
EDINBURGH
EH6 5QN

cc. Membership Secretary 18 December 2020

Dear Patrick and Lorna,

I am writing to tender my resignation from the Scottish Green Party with effect from Friday 18 December 2020.

For some time now, since I was admonished for attending a public meeting at Edinburgh University in June 2019, I have been saddened by the intolerance shown by some party members to an open and mature dialogue about the tensions and conflicts around questions of sex and gender in the context of transgender rights and women’s rights.

On Thursday last week it was made clear to me that if (as I was minded to), I voted for amendment 28 to the Forensic Medical Services (Victims of Sexual Offences) (Scotland) Bill, I would face complaints and disciplinary action leading to possible suspension, deselection or expulsion. On the evidence of the reaction to my attendance at the June 2019 public meeting, I took this prospect seriously.

I understand that the Scottish Green Party has a strong commitment to equalities and trans rights. However, some of the language, approaches and postures of the party and its spokespeople have been provocative, alienating and confrontational for many women and men.

It has become evident to me that the sort of open-minded public engagement I would like to see take place on this topic is incompatible with a party that has become very censorious of any deviation from an agreed line.

Put simply, I cannot operate in this kind of environment and Thursday’s vote and the discussions that took place around it were the final confirmation of that.

I remain committed to Green politics and will endeavour to work constructively with the Green Group in Parliament until dissolution. I also have important work to do on tenants’ rights, the climate crisis, land reform, local democracy and taking forward my European Charter of Local Self-Government (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill.

I wish you well in the May 2021 Elections.

Best wishes

Andy

Angela Constance, the former Education Secretary until 2016, and Cabinet Secretary for Communities Social Security and Equalities until 2018 will replace Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick in dealing with drug deaths.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has appointed her as a dedicated Minister for Drug Policy to lead The Scottish Government’s work on tackling and reducing the harm of drug misuse, supporting the rehabilitation and recovery of those living with drug addiction, and reducing the unacceptable number of deaths from drugs.

The new Minister will report directly to the First Minister. Ms Sturgeon told parliament at FMQs yesterday that the number of deaths from drug misuse was indefensible. She said then in answer to a question from Ruth Davidson about drug deaths: “The figures that were published this week are completely unacceptable and no one will hear political answers from me on the subject today. We have much to do to sort this out—and sorting it out is our responsibility, and it is a serious responsibility.

“Behind every one of the statistics is a human being whose life mattered: someone’s son or daughter, mother or father, brother or sister. I say that I am sorry to every family who has suffered grief. Every person who dies an avoidable death because of drug abuse has been let down.

“The fact is that the issue is difficult and complex, but that is not an excuse. There is much work under way, which is being led by the public health minister and the drug deaths task force. However, the figures tell us that we need to do more and quicker.

“The next meeting of the task force will take place on 12 January. I will attend the meeting to take stock with the task force and to consider what further, immediate steps we need to take. I will make a statement in the chamber before the end of January after I have had that discussion, to set out what further steps we intend to take.

“Undoubtedly, part of that will involve rehabilitation facilities. We have been doing mapping work—we asked a working group to do that. Between the private sector, the third sector and the public sector, there are 365 rehabilitation beds across the country. We are not satisfied that that is necessarily sufficient, or that they are being used sufficiently.

“That is not the only issue; it is one of the issues that require to be considered properly and fully as we move forward to discharge that responsibility for sorting out something that is completely unacceptable. I think that all of us take that view.”

Angela Constance has been asked by the First Minister to fill the role between now and the election. Her appointment will be put to Parliament for approval next week.

Prior to entering elected politics Ms Constance served as a social worker, including working with people with a history of drug misuse and families living with the consequences of addiction. In her time as a Cabinet Secretary she also led the government’s early work on the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences and as Communities Secretary worked on poverty and homelessness, giving her a broad perspective on the challenges faced by some of those who are at risk of dying from drug misuse.  

A new Minister for Public Health to replace Mr FitzPatrick will be nominated on Monday.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:“Scotland’s record on drug deaths is simply not good enough and as First Minister I know we have much more to do.

“As a first step I have decided to appoint a dedicated minister, working directly alongside me, whose job it will be to work across government to improve outcomes for people whose lives are affected by drugs.

“We must not accept a situation in which people who use drugs are allowed to fall through the cracks, with so many dying premature and avoidable deaths as a result. Behind the statistics are real people whose lives matter, and I am absolutely determined that we take actions to fix this.”

Angela Constance said:“It is a privilege to be asked to work with the First Minister to address this challenge.

“I intend to get straight down to business, meeting with people who are at risk of dying from drugs, learning from the families of those we have lost and working with those in our communities and public health teams who are providing such valuable support.

“Government can and will do more and I am determined to use the short time before the election to work with the Drug Death Taskforce on the actions necessary to reduce Scotland’s drug deaths and better support those living with addiction.”

Edinburgh’s favourite panto venue has teamed up with professional photographer Tom Duffin to create a virtual theatre tour and find a brand-new way to open the doors of the King’s Theatre during these unprecedented times.

The tour allows the thousands of people missing the annual Panto extravaganza to see and hear familiar panto voices both current and from years gone by, as well as to tour every nook and cranny of the theatre, opening up previously unseen spaces in which they can discover nuggets of history, see photos of the King’s as it once was, and hear the stories of the staff and stars who make the King’s Panto so special.

As you stand outside the theatre images of it before the theatre was built in 1905, the 1940’s, now and as planned in the future following a major redevelopment, revolve to show the King’s site over the course of more than a century. Favourite panto baddie Grant Stott greets you in the foyer for the start of a virtual 360-degree tour of the historic King’s Theatre, on which you’ll also hear familiar cheeky panto banter from the much-loved Andy Gray and Jordan Young.

From the entrance you can explore around the theatre both front of house and behind the stage taking you to places rarely seen by audiences. Photos of a four-tiered King’s auditorium, the sound and sight of Stanley Baxter in the King’s panto, and a trip to the panto stars’ dressing rooms are among the surprises that await. Technicians, stage managers, wardrobe and flymen share insights into their job making the panto magical from their different crannies of the theatre.

The incredible access all areas tour will take visitors to backstage areas of the theatre never seen by the audience; stand on stage looking out to a full auditorium, go down to the orchestra pit or up to the fly-floor and historic paint frame, or wander through to the stars dressing rooms.

Or simply take time to enjoy the beautiful foyers, bars and auditorium which normally are the backdrop to a performance but the interior architecture serves as entertainment in its own right when you have time to take in the intricacies of it.

The tour has been designed by professional photographer based in Edinburgh, Tom Duffin who has incredibly kindly donated his time and skills to Capital Theatres for this remarkable adventure.

There is the opportunity to donate during the tour which is a donation to the Capital Theatre’s emergency appeal.

Kate Smith, Director of Development at Capital Theatres said: We know that thousands of people are missing their annual trip to the King’s and we cannot replace their panto experience this year, but in conversation with Tom we realised we could open up the theatre in a way which has never been done before and offer our audiences and the local community the opportunity to have a very rich and different theatre experience this Christmas.”

Tom Duffin said: “The skills and techniques we’ve developed for immersive experiences was a perfect fit for the King’s. My family has been going to the King’s panto for 4 generations, so the challenge was to create something that was a cross-generational mix of nostalgia, belly laughs and surprising new discovery.

“What was a fantastic added benefit was the genuine enthusiasm from the King’s staff who revelled in telling their stories from behind, below and way, way above the stage.”

Join the tour at www.capitaltheatres.com/kings-future/kings-theatre-360-tour

All images credit Mike Hume

One Love Chigusa by Soji Shimada and  The Refugees’ Daughter by Takuji Ichikawa

I would wager more people could name a famous Belgian author than could name a famous Japanese author, so the aim of Red Circle Authors is to introduce a selection of rich and varied works from Japanese writers. 

One Love Chigusa is a beguiling tale of mystery and romance, set in the future and whose main character has been largely regenerated after an horrific accident – not unlike Steve Austin in The Six Million Dollar Man. Unfortunately his emotions have altered, and he perceives all people as outwardly deformed as their feelings change, although this soon becomes true only of women, all of whom appear as red-faced harpies – with one exception: a beautiful woman he sees passing a coffee shop – Chigusa. 

Infatuated, he follows her, trying to pluck up courage to speak to her. Intriguingly, one of the places they visit is a shop where they can listen to  old French and British folk songs – and one to which they are both drawn is – Annie Laurie.

An interesting link to Scotland.  But is he really little more than a machine – and can machines fall in love ? That would be telling.

Soji Shimada is the master of postmodern whodunnits who originally wanted to become a painter turned instead to reinventing the art of mystery writing. His debut novel, The Tokyo Zodiac Murders, now ranked among the top five best locked-room mysteries published worldwide, became an instant classic, transforming him into Japan’s Man of Mystery and one of the country’s bestselling authors.

The Refugees’ Daughter is also a sci-fi novel, based in a world on the edge of extinction. But for some people there is an escape to another world or dimension, through a gate. But the location of a gate is only given to privileged people, and since no-one has ever returned having passed through a gate, can one be sure that safety lies on the other side?  This is the problem facing one family who have been told of a gate’s location: what will they find on the other side? This book contains the answer.

Takuji Ichikawa is an author who ignores traditional boundaries, and is impossible to pigeonhole; whose positive fantastical narratives touch the soul through storytelling that not only ‘transforms and heals’, but also sells in the millions.

Published by Red Circle Authors Limited

Paperback  £7.50 ISBN One Love Chigusa 978 – 1 – 912864 – 10 – 3 The Refugees’ Daughter  978 – 1 – 912864 – 08 – 9

Badgers continue to suffer persecution: from setts being dug out to badger baiting, which can cause horrific injuries and death to both badger and dogs.

Police officers are working with partners including Scottish Badgers to deliver our year-long commitment to raise awareness of the six priorities of wildlife crime.

Phase two is looking at badger persecution.

It’s a criminal offence to disturb a badger in its sett or to interfere with their setts.

Keep your eyes open, if you suspect something report it.

Help us #EndWildlifeCrime by visiting www.scotland.police.uk/wildlifecrime

There is something you never thought you would read at this time last year.

With ongoing Covid-19 restrictions the street party and all related events are cancelled. Instead, Underbelly who organise Edinburgh’s Hogmanay for the council, have commissioned the largest swarm drone show ever seen in the UK which will be called Fare Well.

This will take place at 7pm each night from 29 to 31 December inclusive. This is based on a new piece of writing by Scots Makar, Jackie Kay and will involve 150 individual drones relating the tale. Our Scottish scenery will feature large from Spean Bridge to the Forth Bridge and the finale here in Auld Reekie.

This is an ode to Scotland:

“This air has heather and malt on its breath

as it sighs, puffed oot after a year of death,

under the blue mask of its flag. The Saltire’s

been a warning cross. Dinny come too near.”

Visual Development artist Gary Wilson has created the image which the drones are programmed to depict along with a series of words, animals and shapes in the sky. Drone show pioneers Celestial have used their skills to create the largest choreographed drone swarm in the UK which will reach an altitude of 150 metres and speeds of up to 25 mph. The drones use AI software to depict the images.

Niteworks from the Isle of Skye who composed the soundtrack for the Midnight Moment fireworks in 2018 have composed the soundtrack for the event. The score is said to be ’emotionally charged’ representing the trial that has been 2020. Auld Lang Syne will also feature as Edinburgh, and Scotland say goodbye to the year just gone.

Among the cast are some well known faces such as David Tennant, Lorne McFadyen from Outlaw King, a collection of Scottish young voices including Blessed aged 16 from Aberdeen, Miren aged 9 from Glasgow, Heather aged 18 from Glasgow and Winnie a 25 year-old native Gaelic speaker from the Isle of Skye.

There are three, five minute sections, which will be available to view online on 29, 30 and 31 December. The event is free and anyone from all over the world can log in. There will also be some behind the scenes footage to watch.

“So, aye, the New Year’s born at midnight.

Good riddance to the last page torn

from this scunnered year. And though we can’t First Foot

with lumps o’ coal, black bun, a Raasey Malt,

or join thigither in a ring o’ haunds,

singing Auld Acquaintance fit to break the band,

we send out Hope into this Scottish air,

breathed out by widows, workers, weans, by those who care,

by those who vote, shout, march to ring the changes

at the Bells, who’ve clocked the dangers.”

Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, Directors of Underbelly and producers of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, commented: “With 2020 being the year it has been, we want to ring out the old year and hurry in the new year, with a message of hope at a world-class event. Hope will be the universal message of the turn of the year, and ours will be no exception – Edinburgh’s Hogmanay’s mission is to sing it from the roof tops with a creatively-led and proudly Scottish celebration. 

We’re grateful to our creative team and to the City of Edinburgh Council, EventScotland, The Scottish Government and Creative Scotland who have supported us to create a unique and special moment for people around the world.  Join us from the 29-31 December, it truly is an event not to be missed.”

“We say Wha’s like us, singing Auld Lang’s Syne. 

“We share the planet’s air. What’s yours is mine.” 

Donald Wilson, Culture and Communities Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We’re very proud of our status as the home of Hogmanay and I have no doubt this will endure for many years to come.

“As with many aspects of our lives, we’ve had to adapt our plans for this year, but I believe we’ve found a fitting way to celebrate and mark the end of a highly unusual and challenging year – whilst looking ahead to 2021 with the hope and optimism that each new year brings.”

Amy McNeese-Mechan, Culture and Communities Vice Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The best place to celebrate Hogmanay this year will be from home. Please plan to ‘coorie in’ with your nearest and dearest, keep each other safe and please enjoy the UK first premiere ‘Fare Well’, featuring original and quite wonderful contributions from Scotland’s finest musicians and poets.”

 www.edinburghshogmanay.com

by Local Democracy Reporter Marie Sharp

National Clinical Director, Jason Leitch, gave his view on why there has been a surge in East Lothian Covid-19 cases, leading to a return to  Level 3 restrictions in the council area.

Speaking at The Scottish Government daily briefing today, Professor Leitch acknowledged that the rise in cases in the county was taking place  “on the border with Edinburgh”.

Coronavirus cases in the east and centre of East Lothian have been very low compared to cases in the Musselburgh, Prestonpans and Tranent areas in the west.

But any attempt to somehow split East Lothian into two, in terms of the Covid-19 protection levels, would simply be “more trouble than we would know how to manage”.

Mr Leitch’s comments come as East Lothian moves back into Level 3 restrictions on Friday at 6.00pm. This limits hospitality and other businesses.

The most up to date figures for East Lothian showed a rate of 144.7 cases per 100,000 people in the week up to 14 December, with the vast majority of cases in the west of the county.

Mr Leitch was asked why he thought the cases in the county were concentrated in one general area.

He replied: “Much of the positive cases are on the border with Edinburgh city and as you move further east the cases reduce.

“That is, of course, to do with mixing around local authorities, it is to do with travel, to do with commuting, it is to do with where people shop, where people go for childcare, where people go for hospitality.”

Mr Leitch suggested it would not be practical to have different Covid protection levels in different parts of the same local authority.

He added: “People see us making nuanced decisions with some of the islands. I think to go further down that route would give us more trouble than we would be able to manage.”

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Government guidance for Christmas 2020″]
The safest way to celebrate Christmas this year is to celebrate with your own household in your own home – and as far as possible to keep any interaction with other households to a minimum. This is by far the safest way to spend this Christmas and keep your loved ones safe.

Christmas bubbles can be formed between 23 and 27 December, to help reduce loneliness and isolation. You do not have to form a bubble if you do not want to – the safest way to spend Christmas is to stay in your own household, in your own home and your own local area

If you do decide to form a bubble this updated guidance asks you to:

minimise the number of people in a Christmas bubble. While 3 households is the legal maximum, our recommendation is that 2 would be better, and you should keep to a maximum of 8 people, age 12 and over – the smaller the bubble, the better and safer it will be
minimise the time spent with your bubble, especially indoors. The 5 day period is a window of opportunity, not a recommended time. We recommend you do not meet up with people in your bubble on any more than one day over the period and do not stay overnight unless it is unavoidable. And you should minimise the distance you intend to travel
avoid all travel between high prevalence and low prevalence areas – in particular, that means avoiding travel to or from Scotland and Tier 3 areas in England, and to or from any Level 4 areas in Scotland (of which there are currently none)
you should not go to a pub or restaurant or entertainment venue, for example a cinema or theatre, with your bubble
if you don’t form a bubble you must follow the rules in the local authority area you live in
Hogmanay and New Year: Christmas bubbles will not apply at Hogmanay and New Year. Instead, you should follow the rules on meeting up and travelling for your level.
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Christmas bubbles”]
Between 23 and 27 December if you wish to you can:
form a Christmas bubble with two households, (1 can be an extended household), up to a maximum of 8 people – children under 12 do not count towards this number, if from the 2 households. While 3 households is the legal maximum, our recommendation is that 2 is better​​​​​
travel to meet people in your bubble. 1 of the bubble members must live in the local authority area you are gathering in and you should follow local travel rules once you arrive
meet people in your bubble in each other’s homes and gardens, in self-catering accommodation within a council area that a member of the bubble lives in, in outdoor public spaces and places of worship – you do not always have to meet as a group at the same time
You are recommended not to:

meet up with people in your bubble on any more than one day over the period and do not stay overnight, if possible
travel to or from a Tier 3 area in England or a level 4 area in Scotland
Households who have formed a Christmas bubble must not:

be in more than one bubble
change the members of the bubble once formed
Members of bubbles should:

try to limit contact with others before and after forming a bubble
stay 2 metres apart from people not in your own household – children under 12 do not need to do this (and can continue to meet other children under 12 outdoors who are not in their bubble)
try not to meet too often
not meet other people who are not in the bubble socially indoors or outside
follow the FACTS guidance, by regularly washing hands and keeping surfaces clean
not share crockery or cutlery
[/su_spoiler]

The owners of Stead’s Place on Leith Walk, Drum Property Group, have submitted a new planning application.

The plans for the 2.9 acre site include 146 apartments to the rear, replacing the industrial units there which would be demolished, and refurbishment of the sandstone building to the front. This would become spaces for commercial occupation, as it already is.

When Drum began the planning process, it brought the commercial leases of most of the occupiers to an end. Only the Leith Depot remains in place, but others such as the Bed Shop and the Indian Restaurant, Punjabi Junction, have long since moved on.

The majority of the homes in the new scheme would be build for rent and 36 are earmarked for affordable housing in line with planning requirements.The buildings will be four and five storeys high with what Drum describe as significant green space and access routes through the site.

Graeme Bone, Group Managing Director of Drum, said: “This new planning application represents a culmination of more than three-and-a-half years of intense planning, consultation and hard work since Drum first purchased the site in 2017. “Our proposals will now bring an added dimension to Leith Walk and the wider area, transforming what is currently an inhospitable industrial site by creating an attractive, open and accessible homes-led community for residents and visitors alike. This provides a comfortable living environment, away from the busy Leith Walk and linked through accessible and landscaped walkways and cycle routes to Pilrig Park and the rest of the city. 

“By retaining and refurbishing the red sandstone buildings facing on to Leith Walk, we are also contributing to the wider regeneration of the local area, providing investment to create an attractive and distinctive destination and focal point which is needed now, more than ever. We are pleased that our designs have been well-received by the local community throughout an extensive and positive consultation programme, and now look forward to progressing the application with the City of Edinburgh Council.

“Our revised proposals will maintain the red sandstone building whilst incorporating sympathetic design for the residential quarter to the rear of the site, creating a much-improved access linking Leith Walk with Pilrig Park. This will continue the traditions of vibrancy and independence which makes Leith Walk such an exciting destination in which to live, work and visit.” 

This follows the earlier application in 2018/19 which was rejected by the council and on appeal by the Scottish Government Reporter. Since then Drum began a new planning process in April this year in a design which would retain the two storey red sandstone building on Leith Walk and demolish the industrial units behind. The developers claim that over 80% of those who were consulted in the planning process want to see the site developed.

www.steads-place.com

At the daily media briefing earlier today, Health Secretary Jeane Freema, confirmed that car parking will continue to be free for staff, visitors and patients at three hospitals in Scotland including the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh until the end of March 2021.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Scottish Government began paying the car park providers enabling them to lift charges at the three Scottish PFI hospitals. The initial three month suspension was announced by Ms Freeman in March 2020. It was then extended until January 2021 and now there is an agreement in place until March 2021.

Ms Freeman said: “I am glad that we are able to continue providing this support to our hardworking NHS staff and to patients and their visitors. I know from the letters I receive that free car parking is particularly appreciated by staff who are working day and night to care for their patients during this pandemic.

“It is down to their extraordinary efforts that the NHS remains open. The staff of the NHS should not experience any unnecessary difficulties whilst they continue to go above and beyond during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Scottish Government is continuing to work on a long term solution to the issue of car parking changes.”

 Miles Briggs MSP said: “Staff and patients at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary will be pleased that free parking at the hospital has been extended, but disappointed that no long term solution has been reached.

“SNP Ministers seem to be just kicking the can along the road when we desperately need to see the leadership to deliver a long-term solution.

“NHS Lothian staff go above and beyond every day to care for patients and the least they deserve is not having to pay for expensive parking to get to work.”

Those parking at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, and Ninewells Hospital in Dundee will continue to be able to access the car parks free of charge until the end of March 2021.

The latest figures detailing the number of people diagnosed with Covid-19 in the last 24 hours in Scotland have been announced.

Edinburgh remains in Level Three restrictions and there has been an update on guidance about what is permitted, but not necessarily recommended, over the Christmas break which you can read below.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman and National Clinical Director Jason Leitch conducted the media briefing from St Andrew’s House today.

Three council areas including Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and East Lothian will move into Level Three restrictions from tonight at 6pm. This means no travel into or out of these areas except for essential purposes.

The Health Secretary has also announced that free car parking for staff at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh will be extended until March 2021.

The figures in Scotland as at 18 December 2020 are as follows:

• 744 new cases of Covid-19 reported which equates to 4.2% of those newly tested.
• The number of positive cases is now 110,040
• 36 newly reported deaths have been announced today of people who have tested positive within the last 28 days
• 50 people were in intensive care yesterday with recently confirmed Covid-19 which is the same as yesterday.
• 1032 people were in hospital yesterday with recently confirmed Covid-19 which is 20 more than yesterday
• The number of deaths under this daily measurement is now 4,239

As at 13 December 2020, a total of 6,092 deaths have been registered in Scotland where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate, according to statistics published by National Records of Scotland (NRS) on Wednesday This figure is calculated on a wider definition of deaths relating to Covid-19 than the daily figure reported by The Scottish Government.

You can also see the latest numbers laid out visually on the Travelling Tabby website here. It is updated at 3pm daily.

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Government guidance for Christmas 2020″]
The safest way to celebrate Christmas this year is to celebrate with your own household in your own home – and as far as possible to keep any interaction with other households to a minimum. This is by far the safest way to spend this Christmas and keep your loved ones safe.

Christmas bubbles can be formed between 23 and 27 December, to help reduce loneliness and isolation. You do not have to form a bubble if you do not want to – the safest way to spend Christmas is to stay in your own household, in your own home and your own local area

If you do decide to form a bubble this updated guidance asks you to:

minimise the number of people in a Christmas bubble. While 3 households is the legal maximum, our recommendation is that 2 would be better, and you should keep to a maximum of 8 people, age 12 and over – the smaller the bubble, the better and safer it will be
minimise the time spent with your bubble, especially indoors. The 5 day period is a window of opportunity, not a recommended time. We recommend you do not meet up with people in your bubble on any more than one day over the period and do not stay overnight unless it is unavoidable. And you should minimise the distance you intend to travel
avoid all travel between high prevalence and low prevalence areas – in particular, that means avoiding travel to or from Scotland and Tier 3 areas in England, and to or from any Level 4 areas in Scotland (of which there are currently none)
you should not go to a pub or restaurant or entertainment venue, for example a cinema or theatre, with your bubble
if you don’t form a bubble you must follow the rules in the local authority area you live in
Hogmanay and New Year: Christmas bubbles will not apply at Hogmanay and New Year. Instead, you should follow the rules on meeting up and travelling for your level.
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Christmas bubbles”]
Between 23 and 27 December if you wish to you can:
form a Christmas bubble with two households, (1 can be an extended household), up to a maximum of 8 people – children under 12 do not count towards this number, if from the 2 households. While 3 households is the legal maximum, our recommendation is that 2 is better​​​​​
travel to meet people in your bubble. 1 of the bubble members must live in the local authority area you are gathering in and you should follow local travel rules once you arrive
meet people in your bubble in each other’s homes and gardens, in self-catering accommodation within a council area that a member of the bubble lives in, in outdoor public spaces and places of worship – you do not always have to meet as a group at the same time
You are recommended not to:

meet up with people in your bubble on any more than one day over the period and do not stay overnight, if possible
travel to or from a Tier 3 area in England or a level 4 area in Scotland
Households who have formed a Christmas bubble must not:

be in more than one bubble
change the members of the bubble once formed
Members of bubbles should:

try to limit contact with others before and after forming a bubble
stay 2 metres apart from people not in your own household – children under 12 do not need to do this (and can continue to meet other children under 12 outdoors who are not in their bubble)
try not to meet too often
not meet other people who are not in the bubble socially indoors or outside
follow the FACTS guidance, by regularly washing hands and keeping surfaces clean
not share crockery or cutlery
[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler class=”my-custom-spoiler” title=”Socialising in Level Three areas”]
Meeting others indoors
You should not meet anyone who is not in your household indoors in your home or in their home. This applies to all age groups 12 and over. You can meet another household indoors in a public place such as a café or restaurant. The maximum number of people who can meet indoors in a public (not a home) place are 6 which can be from up to 2 separate households.

Children under the age of 12 from these households do not count towards the total number of people counted in a gathering.

Where an individual household includes more than 6 people, they can nevertheless meet as a single household even if the total number of people exceeds 6.

When you meet people from another household indoors you should:

minimise the number of meetings you have with people from other households each day
stay at least 2 metres apart from anyone who is not part of your household, unless in a public venue that is operating 1 metre distancing with additional measures being in place to avoid transmission.
maintain hand and cough hygiene
avoid touching hard surfaces with your hands
wash your hands when you arrive, when you leave, when you get home and especially before eating or after touching surfaces
not share food or utensils – if eating, each household should bring, prepare and eat its own food separately
if possible, keep rooms well ventilated – consider opening windows or a door
Those at a higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus (including those who had been shielding, people 70 and over, people who are pregnant and people with an underlying medical condition) should strictly follow the physical distancing guidance.

Meeting others outdoors
You can meet people from other households outdoors in a private garden or in a public place such as a park or an outdoor area of a pub. The maximum number of people who can meet outdoors is 6 which can be from up to 2 separate households.

Children under the age of 12 from these households do not count towards the total number of people counted in a gathering. Children under 12 do not need to maintain physical distance from others. This is to allow children under 12 to play with their friends outside.

Young people aged between 12 and 17 can meet up in groups of up to 6 at a time outdoors and are not subject to the 2 household limit. Physical distancing is required.

Where an individual household includes more than 6 people, they can continue to meet outside as a household even if the total number of people exceeds 6.

You should:

minimise the number of meetings you have with people from other households each day
stay at least 2 metres away from anyone who is not part of your household
maintain hand and cough hygiene
avoid touching hard surfaces with your hands
wash your hands when you arrive, when you leave, when you get home and especially before eating or after touching surfaces
not share food or utensils – if eating, each household should bring, prepare and eat its own food separately
if possible, keep rooms well ventilated – consider opening windows or a door
Those at a higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus (including those who had been shielding, people 70 and over, people who are pregnant and people with an underlying medical condition) should strictly follow the physical distancing guidance.

Going into someone else’s home
If you are meeting people from another household in their garden and the gathering exceeds 6 people, you should only go into their house to:

access the garden – do so quickly and without touching anything
use the toilet – avoid touching surfaces with your hands as much as possible, wipe any surfaces that you do touch with antibacterial wipes, wash your hands thoroughly, dry your hands with a freshly laundered towel or a paper towel, which you should dispose of in a closed bin.
If members of another household are going to visit you and might need to use your toilet, you should ensure appropriate cleaning materials are available. You should also provide either a hand towel for each visiting household or paper towels and a safe disposal option.

Extended households
People who live in different places can form an “extended household” in the following circumstances:

People who live alone​​​​
If you are an adult and you live alone, or if all others in your household are under 18, you, any children who live with you, and the members of one other household (of any size) can agree to form an ‘extended household’. This will allow people who live alone (or those living only with children under the age of 18) to be considered part of another household in order to reduce loneliness, isolation and to provide mutual social support.
Couples who do not live together
Two adults are in a relationship and they do not live together they, and any children they each live with, can agree to form an ‘extended household’.
However, if one member of a household gets coronavirus, there is a strong likelihood that other members of that household will also catch it. For this reason, there are some important rules that extended households should follow to remain as safe as possible:

a household must not form an extended household with more than one other household
households can end the arrangement at any time, but should not then form an extended household with a new household for at least a 14-day period.
All the adults living in both households should agree to form the extended household. We also encourage parents or guardians to involve their children in discussions. Forming an extended household is an important decision that should be properly discussed and agreed beforehand. Physical distancing between members of an extended household is not required

Once two households have agreed to form an extended household they may meet outdoors or indoors, visit and stay at each other’s homes, and do everything that people in other households can do, such as watch TV, share a meal and look after each other’s children.

Members of an extended household are considered to be one household for the legal requirements on meeting other households and going outside, and for the guidance in this document about seeing friends and family and about exercise and leisure activity.

You can continue to interact with members of your extended household even if they live in a different area with a different Level of protective measures.

If someone in the extended household develops COVID-19 symptoms, to avoid spreading the virus all members of the extended household must isolate immediately if they met the symptomatic person at any time between 2 days before and up to 10 days after their symptoms started.

If the symptomatic person tests positive, all members of their direct household must isolate for 14 days from the start of symptoms. Similarly, other members of the extended household must isolate for 14 days from when the most recent contact took place. Isolate means staying in your own home for the full 14 days.

Those at a higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus (including people over 70, people who are pregnant and people with an underlying medical condition) may take part in an extended household arrangement, but should strictly follow the handwashing, surface cleaning and respiratory hygiene guidance on the NHS Inform website.

Shared parenting
Where parents do not live in the same household, children can move between their parents’ homes in all levels, this includes both supervised and unsupervised visitation.

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Restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars can open indoor and outdoors for the consumption of food and non alcoholic drinks. Alcoholic drinks cannot be served. Last entry is 17:00 and all venues must be closed and all customers off the premises by 18:00.

The maximum number of people you can meet indoors and outdoors in a restaurant, café, pub or bar is 6 which can be from up to 2 separate households.

Children under the age of 12 from these households do not count towards the total number of people meeting outdoors only.

Where an individual household includes more than 6 people they can continue to meet as a household in hospitality premises, although the venue may impose a smaller group limit.

Table service and the wearing of face-coverings (unless exempt) when not seated by all customers is mandatory in all hospitality venues. When meeting people from more than one other household, you should think beforehand about what size of table you will need to keep physically distanced between members of your group. The venue you are visiting should be able to advise you of booking options.

You will be asked by to provide your contact details for Test and Protect purposes This information is retained for 21 days with a view to sharing with Test and Protect Teams, if required.

Hospitality venues are required to put in place additional measures to minimise transmission of COVID-19. For example hand sanitiser stations and adequate ventilation. There will also be signs to inform customers whether the venue is in a 2 metres or 1 metre social distancing area.

You should stay at least 2 metres apart from people from other households at all times, unless the venue is operating 1 metre distancing due to additional measures being in place to avoid transmission. Physical distancing and good hand hygiene remain the most effective measures in reducing the transmission of COVID-19. Therefore, distancing requirements need to be maintained, where reasonably practicable, at all times, including when waiting to enter premises and when seated.

You should avoid visiting multiple hospitality premises on the same day. In particular, do not visit more than one pub or bar on the same day, as this increases the risk of transmission.

Takeaways can still operate as normal, provided food and drink is sold for consumption off the premises. Face coverings and physical distancing rules must be followed.

Hotels and other accommodation providers can still serve food to guests staying in their premises up to 22:00. Room service, including alcohol, is allowed as normal.
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British Transport Police (BTP) and Transport Scotland have launched their festive plan which will include more officers on the network over the festive period to ensure the safety of passengers and rail staff.

This comes after an increase in anti-social behaviour across the network last month where BTP increased patrols and worked closely with partners to tackle the issue.

 BTP is also reminding the public to be respectful towards rail staff when using the network and be mindful that travel restrictions will be eased between 23rd – 27th December. They are also encouraging passengers to follow the Government guidance and only travel when necessary during this period, plan and book your journey in advance, ensure you wear face coverings and maintain social distancing. 

David Marshall, BTP Superintendent and Head of Operations in Scotland, said: “We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour on the network and we will be increasing our visibility patrols to ensure the railway remains a safe place to travel. We are also reminding the public to be respectful to rail staff who have worked throughout the pandemic.

“Additional officers will patrol the rail network, supporting rail staff and engaging with passengers about the importance of maintaining social distancing and reminding those who are travelling to wear face coverings.  We hope the public will continue to act responsibly and play their part in helping to protect themselves, and each other, by following the guidance and restrictions set out by the Scottish Government, as well as complying with the requirement to wear face coverings.”

 Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity said: “Abusing any frontline staff, especially those keeping services moving for other key workers, is unacceptable at any time never mind at the present while we continue to tackle the ongoing impacts on the pandemic. I have no hesitation in supporting BTP and the rail industry in their efforts to convey this message and reduce incidents.

“Everyone working on or using public transport has an absolute right to go about their business without fear of verbal or physical assault. We would ask the public that they not only refrain from this type of wholly unnecessary behaviour, but that they lend their support in actively reporting it where they see incidents or suspicious behaviour happening.”

Alex White, ScotRail Chief Operating Officer, added: “ScotRail has zero-tolerance towards anti-social behaviour, so we hope people will show their support for the railway staff who have gone the extra mile to keep Scotland moving throughout the pandemic.

“We are determined to put the welfare of law-abiding passengers and our staff ahead of people who are breaking the law.”

Funding for new schools at Liberton and Wester Hailes was included in an announcement by John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary, made this morning.

The Scottish Government has included proposals for both of the new secondary schools in the latest funding round as part of potential projects for Phase 2 of their Learning Estate Investment Programme. The £1 billion programme will aim to benefit around 50,000 pupils across Scotland by the end of the next parliament and is managed on behalf of The Scottish Government by the Scottish Futures Trust.

These are only two out of 25 projects put forward for financial backing by 18 local authorities. With the replacement Currie High School this means that Edinburgh now has three new secondary schools included in the Wave 4 funding programme.

Mr Swinney said:“I am determined that our pupils have access to high-quality, up-to-date facilities that parents, staff and children can be proud of.

“This next phase builds on our commitment and proven track record in replacing schools in the poorest condition so that more children or young people can be educated in high quality buildings and ensure equity of provision.

“Scotland’s construction industry has worked incredibly hard to deal with the many challenges presented by the COVID pandemic. This funding will help the sector, sustaining many jobs and providing a welcome boost to communities across the country.

“Many of the projects will include wider community facilities and integration as part of the new school build or refurbishment. These facilities are so much more than just a school where children are educated, they are the centre piece of communities with links to the wider learning estate such as further education facilities and community libraries.”

Cllr Ian Perry, Convener for Education, Children and Families at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Replacement of both these schools has been a top priority for the Council and today’s announcement will be really welcomed by their school communities. I’m very pleased that the Scottish Government has recognised the strength of our bid as we’re committed to building schools which provide the very best learning environment for our young people.

“Both these projects will provide us with significant opportunities to create, as part of an inclusive net zero-carbon city, community lifelong learning and sports hubs where public services can be co-located with links to active travel networks, green infrastructure and strategic public transport networks. It’s a real boost for our ambitious new school building programme which will see £500m planned investment over the next 10 years and we already have a number of schools across the primary, secondary and special sectors opening in the coming year.

“We will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government, COSLA and other partners as we drive forward our plans for new school campuses that are innovatively and sustainably designed so they are inspirational places for learning for the next generation.”

Cllr Alison Dickie, Vice Convener for Education, Children and Families at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This excellent news from The Scottish Government means we can now press on with building these much-needed new schools for Liberton and Wester Hailes. We want schools for the future that are fit for 21^st Century learning and we’ll continue to develop our plans so that greater accessibility for all pupils and a more inclusive environment promoting greater health and wellbeing are key to their success.

“These projects will develop excellent facilities that meet all the aspirations of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Strategy by connecting people, places and learning, improving outcomes for all and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. It also provides us with the platform to keep progressing our ambitious plans for the enhancement of Gaelic Medium Education secondary provision in the city.  GME has grown at all learning levels, and a well-designed co-located school within a Liberton campus, would support our vision of a fully immersive environment.   

“We’re committed to all our new learning estate buildings being constructed in line with our bold commitment of being carbon neutral by 2030 and designed to meet the city-wide aspirations for the curriculum to address all inclusion, digital and outdoor learning requirements and ensuring all our children have the best possible learning environment in which to flourish.”

Current schools projects under construction with their completion dates include: Frogston Primary School (spring 2021), Victoria Primary School (summer 2021), St Crispin’s Special School (summer 2021), a new primary school on Canaan Lane in south Edinburgh (end of 2021), Castlebrae Community campus (end of 2021) and Trinity Academy Phase 1 (spring 2022). The Council is also committed to building a new Currie High School by summer 2024.

Miles Briggs MSP said: “I have been campaigning for a replacement Liberton High School since my election and a new school building is long overdue.

“This is excellent news for pupils and parents at Liberton High School who have been campaigning tirelessly for a replacement building.

“What is important now is that we get a time scale for the replacement school building, so that pupils can benefit from modern state of the are learning facilities as soon as possible.

“I am pleased that Wester Hailes Education Centre, Penicuik High School, Mayfield Primary School Campus and East Calder Primary school have all been included in Phase 2 of the Learning Estate Investment Programme.”

Dovecot Studios celebrates a bold new talent in Scottish tapestry weaving, this coming January. The Gallery is exhibiting the work of artist Elaine Wilson who has just completed her three-year apprenticeship at Dovecot, and who will start a new career with the Studios as a Junior Weaver in 2021. Comprising of tapestries and technical studies, ‘The Art of Being an Apprentice’ highlights Wilson’s progression over the last three years.

From translating her own paintings to weaving works inspired by Romantic painter JMW Turner and contemporary artist Jenny Saville, the display on Dovecot’s Viewing Balcony demonstrates the skill and artistry of an early-career weaver.

As one of the only organisations to offer formal training in the art of tapestry weaving, Dovecot is delighted to highlight the Tapestry Apprenticeship, which is vital to training and inspiring a new generation of weavers. Since 1912, the skills of tapestry weaving have been passed down from Dovecot Master Weaver to Apprentice and in 2011 the Apprenticeship Programme was relaunched with the support of the Dovecot Foundation.

Since starting her apprenticeship, Edinburgh-based painter Elaine Wilson has acquired skills including warping the loom, creating and inking on a tapestry cartoon and producing work that explores line, shape, texture and colour. Each one of the tasks Wilson has undertaken presents a new challenge to a learning weaver.

Working in the context of a Studio, Wilson has worked directly alongside experienced weavers on full-scale tapestry projects as well as creating her own designs for tapestry.

Alongside learning the technical and practical skills of weaving, Dovecot apprentices undertake their own study into the processes, stories and history of tapestry. For Wilson this involved looking into archives, as well studying contemporary weaving, and considering how her own paintings might evolve through translation into tapestry.

Dovecot Apprentice Elaine Wilson says, ‘As a painter and textile designer, I was drawn to tapestry weaving as it is an artistic pursuit that combines my interest in the tactile and the process of making. During my apprenticeship at Dovecot I have enjoyed learning more about the art of tapestry from the Studio team, and I am excited to move forward as a Junior Weaver.’

Master Weaver and Dovecot Studio Manager Naomi Robertson says, ‘The Dovecot Tapestry Apprenticeship is a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity to learn from a world class tapestry studio. Elaine Wilson has proven to be an outstanding student and a dedicated learner. She has consistently explored and experimented with different textures and techniques.

“Her painterly eye has enabled her to interpret the JMW Turner watercolour with sensitivity and self-expression. I believe her work is a testament to Dovecot’s commitment to sustaining Scottish tapestry by training the next generation of 21st century weavers.’

The Dovecot Apprenticeship is funded by The Dovecot Foundation with additional support from the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust and Allchurches Trust.

Image credits – Kenneth Gray Photography, Mike Wilkinson Photography and Dovecot Studios

British Transport Police have seized drugs worth an estimated £30,000 at Edinburgh Waverley Station.

BTP officers took part in a targeted operation at Edinburgh Waverley station last week as part of the County Lines Taskforce to tackle drugs on the railway network.

The officers, who were also joined by Police Scotland, seized the drugs on Wednesday 9 December when two males aged 40 and 46 were arrested for being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug at Edinburgh Waverley.

Following a search, Cannabis with an estimated street value of around £30,000 was recovered. Both males were held in custody and appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last Thursday.

BTP Sergeant David Ferguson said: “We have been carrying out successful operations in Scotland through working in partnership with Police Scotland to ensure the railway continues to be a very safe means of travel. This result shows how we have been working to actively reduce the supply and possession of drugs on the railway network.”

Scottish football clubs will share a total of £1.35m thanks to a COVID support package announced today between the Scottish FA and The National Lottery.

The partnership will ensure that clubs in the Highland, Lowland, East, West and South of Scotland Football Leagues, will receive vital financial support on their recovery from the impact of COVID-19 – with many either unable to play competitive matches or unable to play in front of fans, depriving them of much-needed income.

As a thank you, National Lottery players – who make a difference every time they buy a ticket – will receive a range of benefits including free match tickets once stadia have fully reopened and VIP experiences including with the Scotland National Teams.

The Scottish FA and The National Lottery are keen to reinforce the vital link between local clubs and their communities.

The funds will play a key role in ensuring that clubs within the pyramid survive the ongoing impact of COVID-19 and provide essential community benefit throughout the winter months.

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive: “Fans are the lifeblood of our national game and local clubs the lifeblood of communities. The importance of protecting that bond has never been more important than during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on everyday life across the country. The power of football is integral to our society and it will play an integral role in our emergence from the restrictions. That is why today’s announcement is so significant in reinforcing football’s status as our national game. The support package and partnership announced today will be welcomed by the clubs and on behalf of the game I would like to thank National Lottery players.”

Alister Jack, Secretary of State for Scotland: “Football is hugely important to many people in Scotland, bringing together local communities. The National Lottery has been helping communities across the UK for many years and Scottish football, like all sport, has suffered immensely due to the pandemic. The partnership with The National Lottery is excellent news and will play a vital role in helping our clubs until fans can safely return to football grounds.”

Nigel Railton, Chief Executive of National Lottery operator Camelot: “The National Lottery and its players make a massive difference to communities across the UK day in, day out – and have been doing so since 1994. So, we’re thrilled to be working with the Scottish FA to support these incredibly important clubs, enabling them to continue playing such an important role in their local communities. I am a huge football fan and think all Scottish fans will be delighted to know that their clubs are getting the support they need.”

The partnership follows a similar initiative between the FA and National League in England, the FAW and Cymru Leagues in Wales and the Irish FA and the Northern Ireland Football League. The money for these initiatives is coming from a National Lottery promotional fund. It is not being funded by money allocated for National Lottery Good Causes or by Camelot.

HONEY FROM OWN HIVE HELPS A NURSERY FUNDRAISE FOR DEARLY MISSED FORMER PUPIL

Little Monkeys Nursery in Cramond, Edinburgh is using honey from the beehive it has on its roof to raise funds for the Lewis Leap Foundation.

This was set up in memory of local boy Lewis Johnson who attended Little Monkeys After School club.

His charity was set up by family and friends who wanted to honour his life and spirit. Raising funds to help disadvantaged children in the community access opportunities currently outwith their reach, the Lewis Leap charity aims to empower them to take their own Lewis Leap.

Little Monkeys owner Grace Kerr and her business partner Valerie Broomfield have now raised nearly £2400 by selling jars of their honey to the Nursery parents, with Grace and Valerie matching the amount raised through the honey sales.

Kinross based Webster Honey sited the hive on the roof last year, following the Nursery enjoying a day long experience with Webster Honey’s Observational Hive which can be taken into schools and nurseries to give a flavour of the business’ educational programme. So enthralled were they with the hive that Nursery staff decided they would have one at their own premises. The children were able to decorate a plain hive ready for the bees arrival.

Webster Honey can provide schools and nurseries with a longer ten week, age appropriate, lesson plan if they wish. This often follows the experience with the Observational Hive.

The exceptionally fine Spring and Summer weather this year, coupled with less pollution over lockdown, lead to a bumper honey crop for the Little Monkeys Hive, with beekeeper Meik Molitor keeping the Nursery well supplied with boxes of runny and set honey.

Grace Kerr said: “We remember Lewis with great affection, and were very keen to contribute to his foundation as it’s such a great cause.”

“Our parents have snapped up the honey we have offered for sale, it’s a beautiful product. We had to ask Meik to bring in more as it was all selling so fast!  Lewis’ family are very grateful for everyone’s support. We’re very glad we decided to have the hive put in place, and to work with Webster Honey, as it’s been a great experience for the youngsters.”

Grace finished by saying that she hoped the Nursery could work with Meik and the Webster team again in the Spring or when it was safe to do so.

She said:“The children loved this project – they enjoyed decorating the hive and it was a constant source of fascination for everyone.”

Further details on Webster Honey’s work with schools and nurseries here

www.websterhoney.co.uk

www.littlemonkeysnursery.com

A fundraising facebook page for Lewis here

The Labour Party has today appointed Drew Smith as the acting General Secretary of the Scottish Labour Party. 

Smith, who is currently GMB Scotland’s Policy & External Affairs Officer, is also a former MSP and served as a front bench spokesperson. Smith will take up his position on 4 January 2021 and will serve as acting General Secretary until the Scottish Parliamentary Elections in May 2021. 

Mr Smith said: “2021 is both an important and fast-approaching election for Scotland and for the Labour Party. The events of the last year have shown more than ever how important it is that the voices of working people are heard in Scottish politics. 

“The campaign ahead is our chance to take our message to the people of Scotland, but also for all of the talented and committed people already in our party to be included and to get involved.   

“Working together, I believe we can see our party growing again and I will also work hard to again make Scottish Labour a welcoming place for all who share our values.” 

The Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Richard Leonard, said: “I am looking forward to working with Drew to gear up the Party for next year’s election. He is an experienced campaigner and widely respected across the Labour movement.  

“Together we will ensure that we have a positive and distinctive Scottish Labour message to take to the people of Scotland.  I am delighted that he has agreed to take up this post. 

“Now more than ever we need a Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government which is dedicated to tackling the public health crisis and the jobs and economic crisis which the country faces.  

“I know that we will work well together in the battle to win Labour votes and Labour seats in the 135 days between now and the election.” 

The General Secretary of the Labour Party, David Evans, said: “I want to congratulate Drew on his appointment as acting General Secretary. 

“Drew brings years of experience to this important role and he is widely respected throughout our movement. 

“Drew knows exactly what it takes to return Labour to power in Scotland and bring an end to the years of nationalist misrule. 

“I look forward to working with him on the planning of the Scottish Parliament Election.” 

Miles Briggs MSP has selected the winner of his annual Christmas card competition.

He has run the competition since he was first elected in 2016.

This year’s Christmas Card theme was NHS Scotland, to honour frontline workers who have worked incredibly hard throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The competition was open to all primary schools in Edinburgh and the Lothians, and Elsie Adams age 8, from St Peter’s Primary School in Morningside, P4, was chosen as the winner.

Elsie won £50 Amazon voucher (sponsored by Morrison Construction), afternoon tea at the Caledonian (sponsored by Waldorf Astoria) and a family day out at Conifox Adventure Park (sponsored by Conifox).

Miles was not able to present the winner, Elsie, with her prize in person due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs, said:“There were some very creative Christmas cards this year and pupils in Edinburgh and the Lothian’s once again showed their artistic talent.

“The competition was very close with hundreds of Christmas card entries from primary schools across the region, with inventive designs from hand sanitiser to the distinctive NHS rainbow.

“What was clear from the entries was that primary school pupils are aware of the tremendous effort that NHS staff have made throughout this year.

“Congratulations to the winner Elsie, whose bright card and fun design stood out as the winner of my 2020 Christmas card competition.”