Public Health Scotland (PHS) has published new data which shows that flu activity continues to rise steeply in Scotland, including an increase in the number of people attending their GP or being admitted to hospital.

The figures, published today, show that there has been a 63% increase in laboratory-confirmed cases of flu across all age groups in Scotland in the past week, rising to 2,752 cases from 1,696 the previous week.

There are early indications that high levels of circulating flu are contributing to acute pressure on the health and care system, including an increase in GP consultations and hospitalisations.

GP consultation rates for influenza-like illness are at the highest rate observed since the 2017/18 winter season. Hospital admissions have risen by 65% from 705 last week to 1,163 in today’s report.

Vaccination offers the best protection against serious illness from flu, however, in those with underlying health conditions who are under the age of 65 years in Scotland, over two thirds have not yet been vaccinated.

Dr Nicholas Phin, Director of Public Health Science at PHS, said: “Although we always expect to see increases in flu in winter, currently we are seeing particularly high levels of the virus circulating. This is a concern, as flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

“Vaccination is one of the best tools we have in protecting against serious illness from flu. If you’re eligible for a flu, or COVID-19 vaccine, it’s not too late to take up the offer and get protected. Please check with your local health board for details on how to arrange this.

“During this time of increased socialising, we urge everyone to take preventive measures to reduce flu, and other respiratory infections, being spread to others. If you have symptoms of flu or have a fever, you should stay at home and avoid contact with other people, especially people in hospital or those who are vulnerable to severe infections.

“We can all help prevent infections, like flu, from spreading by maintaining proper hand and respiratory hygiene. This includes covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, disposing of tissues responsibly, and promptly washing your hands afterwards.

“A&E services are exceptionally busy, so we encourage everyone to think carefully before attending if you have flu-like symptoms. Your local A&E is for emergencies, such as a suspected heart attack or stroke, severe breathing difficulties or severe bleeding. If your condition it is not life threatening, you should visit nhsinform.scot first to get trusted advice quickly. For further support, call your GP or NHS 24 on 111.”

Find out more about flu on NHS inform

Proposed cuts to staffing hours in ticket offices across the ScotRail network will make it far more difficult for disabled passengers to travel.

The Scottish Government has granted ScotRail permission to cut ticket office hours at more than 100 stations on Scotland’s Railways.

Many disabled passengers already struggle to travel on Scotland’s Railways; with an inefficient booking system, uneven platforms and inaccessible stations, these proposals would be a hammer blow to disabled passengers who rely on ScotRail services.

Scottish Greens transport spokesperson Mark Ruskell MSP said the party is backing a campaign by the RMT rail workers union to call on the Scottish Government and ScotRail to stop the cuts to station staff.

Mr Ruskell said: “These cuts would have a devastating effect on Scotland’s Railways for workers and passengers. 

“In particular, these cuts will harm the many disabled passengers who rely on Scotland’s railways; these station staff are vital for helping them board trains and ensuring that they safely make their journeys.

“The expertise of station staff is crucially important during the cost of living crisis, ensuring that they are there to provide help to navigate a complicated system while providing advice on the cheapest tickets and best times to travel by train.

“The Scottish Greens believe there are many other things that need to be dealt with on Scotland’s Railways, such as extortionate ticket prices, empty first-class carriages and lack of government support for reopening former routes such as the Peterhead rail link and the Dunfermline to Alloa line.

“I hope ScotRail and the Scottish Government reverse these damaging plans and protect our ticket office staff from future cuts.”

The Met Office is warning of high pressure over the UK which has led to largely overcast weather conditions, low cloud and fog and will mean unsettled weather over the next few days.

But Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has checked and say that the weather on 29 December for the Torchlight Procession is perfect at the moment.

Neil Armstrong is a Chief Forecaster with the Met Office.

He said: “From Sunday we will start to see some heavy rain affecting northwestern parts of Scotland. After a brief respite, further rain and strong winds will be in place on Monday and Tuesday across Scotland, as another area of low-pressure approaches. This may be accompanied by some heavy snowfall in the mountains and perhaps to lower elevations.”

A yellow weather warning is in place for Monday and Tuesday in some parts of the country, with more likely as confidence in the forecast increases.

From New Year’s Day the unsettled conditions, and potentially disruptive wind, rain and snow, could affect more southern parts of the UK. 

Police in Ayrshire are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 58-year-old man reported missing from Troon.

Colin McKenna was last seen around 11.30pm on Thursday, 26 December, 2024, in the East Grove area of the town.

He is described as white, around 5ft 10in tall, with short black hair. He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a navy-blue waterproof workwear jacket.

Colin is believed to be travelling in a white Ford Focus, registration WR66 NLO, which was spotted heading southbound near the South Queensferry Bridge in the early hours of Friday, 27 December.

Inspector Martin Lawrie said: “We are growing increasingly concerned for Colin’s welfare and extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace him.

“I urge anyone who has seen Colin, his vehicle, or who has any information on his whereabouts, to contact us as soon as possible.

“If you think you can help, please call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3286 of Thursday, 26 December, 2024.”

The first tickets have been released for Scotland’s only festival celebrating silent film and live music. HippFest, which takes its name from its home at the Hippodrome Cinema in Bo’ness, will return for its landmark 15th edition, Wednesday 19 – Sunday 23 March 2025. 

Although the full programme won’t be announced until the New Year, regular “Hipponauts” and cinema aficionados can grant themselves exclusive access with the five-day HippFest Festival Pass or the newly introduced Weekend Festival Pass to make the most of the festival. Pass holders will be granted priority booking for events with no booking fees (exclusions apply), plus automatic registration for all HippFest at Home presentations which take place online in the run up to the Festival. The two-day HippFest Weekend Pass starts at £63 for the under-30s or  £99 full price, for a total of 18 online and in-person events . The full five-day HippFest Festival Pass costs £143 for access to 26 events online and in-person across the Festival.. Other benefits include a discount off purchases at the Hippodrome Café and Bar, and much more during the Festival dates, Wednesday 19 – Sunday 23 March 2025. 

Festival Director Alison Strauss said: “This year’s HippFest feels like a crowning moment for us as we have harnessed all our learning from the last fifteen years to create a truly memorable festival. The programme will be a proper treasure trove, featuring musicians old and new, commissions, premieres, rediscoveries and restorations. All this plus a full schedule of tandem events and activities in and around the town. Bo’ness will be buzzing and we can’t wait to welcome everyone!”

HippFest 2025 will take place Wednesday 19 – Sunday 23 March 2025 with a community event held in the town on Saturday 15 March 2025. HippFest Festival Passes are available to buy now, with further tickets and full programme details to be announced on 4 February 2025. Festival passes are subject to availability and purchasing early is recommended to avoid disappointment. For further information on HippFest and to book your Festival Pass, visit www.hippfest.co.uk

Three people have been arrested in connection with pyrotechnics offences following incidents in Edinburgh on Boxing Day.

A 17-year-old and a 28-year-old man have been arrested and charged in connection with being in possession of pyrotechnics in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh prior to the Hibernian v Hearts match on Thursday, 26 December, 2024. They are due to appear in court at a later date.

A 39-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with setting off pyrotechnics in Russell Road, Edinburgh. He is due to appear in court at a later date.

Enquiries are ongoing in relation to four pyrotechnic smoke devices discharged within Tynecastle stadium during the Hibernian v Hearts match on Thursday, 26 December, 2024.

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie said: “Setting off pyrotechnics in the street or within a sporting stadium is a criminal offence. I would ask people to think of the impact it could have on those around you, particularly people with medical conditions, young children and elderly.

“We will continue to work in partnership with football clubs to prevent fans from taking pyrotechnics into grounds and to pursue those who put other fans’ safety at risk.

“Anyone with information regarding persons using or being in possession of pyrotechnics is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.”

A 45-year-old male spectator in the Main Stand at Tynecastle was ejected then arrested after a Hibs player was allegedly racially abused during yesterday’s Edinburgh Derby. 

Hibs substitute Jordan Obita was warming up when the incident is said to have taken place, just after an own goal from Kyle Rowles gave the vistors an early lead. 

It was revealed by Sky Sports’ Luke Shanley at half-time that a fan had been ejected from the stadium and arrested. 

Hearts confirmed this in statement by saying: ‘The club can confirm a supporter has been ejected from the stadium and arrested in relation to an alleged incident of racism.  

“The club condemns racism and any abusive behaviour. It will not comment further on active police matters. 

Hibs manager David Gray praised the defender for not letting it affect him as he entered play later in the game to help his side secure the three points. 

Speaking after the game, Gray said: “There’s no place for it at all and it’s been dealt with. 

“The most important thing is Jordan’s been on the pitch and was fantastic when he came on. So it’s about making sure it doesn’t affect people as much as we can.” 

Police Scotland has been approached for comment. 

Police in the capital are urging those attending this year’s Hogmanay party to plan ahead and be mindful of weather forecast and travel arrangements. 

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay returns from 29 December 2024 into New Year’s Day, welcoming the world to party into 2025 at the ‘Home of Hogmanay!’ 

Launching the Edinburgh Hogmanay festival and signalling the start of global New Year celebrations, the Torchlight Procession will take place on 29th December from 18:30 hours from the Meadows.  

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: If you have plans to attend any of the Hogmanay events please make sure to plan ahead , being mindful of weather forecast and travel arrangements.  

“For all the latest updates and FAQ’s regarding Edinburgh’s Hogmanay please visit:  

Hogmanay | https://orlo.uk/EBQPM 

“We hope everyone who joins the celebrations from near and far has a wonderful time.” 

Hibs victory at Tynecastle yesterday saw the club move into seventh place in the table and now head coach David Gray is looking upwards toward the top six. 

But he accepts that his players need to keep improving, working hard and guard against complacency. 

Speaking after the final whistle Gray said: “We need to keep moving forward. We know how quickly things can change, and we’ve demonstrated that in the last three or four weeks, which is great. But we still can’t rely on thinking we’ve just turned the corner. 

“We need to keep improving, we need to keep getting better, keep working on these areas that we need to improve and guard against complacency. Because every game at this league, as you see, everyone can beat everyone and how quickly it can change. But we’re in a real positive moment at the minute.” 

Own goals from Kyle Rowles and Rocky Bushiri meant the sides were level at the break despite Hibs outplaying their rivals. 

But a late winner from Dwight Gayle sent the fans home happy. 

He continued: “It’s a real difficult place to come. History tells you that. It’s been five years to the day since we’ve done that. 

“But I think that’s something that I’ve challenged the group a lot in the last few weeks, creating our own history and changing the history as much as we can. You’ve seen that today. I’m delighted for everyone involved. 

“I’m constantly trying to challenge the players. History is something that’s there of course, but it’s also something this squad can’t affect, what’s happened previously. They can only look forward and try and change that history. 

“I remember the last time we won here was five years ago to the day, and this squad of players had an opportunity to change that. We’re now looking at it as we’re the last team to come here and win and the next time we come here we’ve got the opportunity to try and do it again. I think it’s about creating our own history and making sure that we keep moving forward.” 

Neil Critchley summed up Hearts performance in the Derby in one short sentence: “We were not good enough.”

And the Englishman (pictured by Thomas Brown) declared that there were “too many under par performances” from his men in the 2-1 defeat at Tynecastle on Boxing Day.

Dwight Gayle’s late strike, a superb finish the former Newcastle striker, saw Hearts slip back into the bottom two in the 12-strong table with 16 points, two more than bottom-markers, St Johnstone, and two fewer than Sunday’s opponents, Ross Country. All have played 19 games.

Sunday’s trip to Dingwall in the William Hill Premiership therefore becomes a must-win for the Jambos and Critchley will demand more from his squad.

The coach did not feel his players did enough against Hibs who now move up to seventh position with 21 points already in the bag from 19 fixtures.

Critchley felt is squad played in spells on Boxing Day but added: “In a game like this, that is not enough.”

Asked if this display would prompt a move into the transfer market when the window opens in January, Critchley told BBC Sport Scotland: “We are always looking to try and improve and there are parts of the squad which needs to be re-enforced.”

The coach admitted that, at the moment, he is not finding solutions to the current inconsistency from within.

Different permutations of different players have been tried, but he said: “We can do it for one game and we can do it within a game but not from game to game and that is not going to get us where we want to be.

“If you want to play for this football club, and get us to where we want to go, we need players with the mentality and quality to produce on a regular basis.”

Critchley is still learning about the group of players he inherited from former head coach, Steven Naismith, and, crucially, learning which ones are going to around of the long journey and the ones who won’t be.

Performances on the pitch, he said, answer many of his questions and, at the moment, Hearts have players who perform well within in one game and then not quite as well in the next game and that’s not good enough for the ambitious former Blackpool boss.

Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes have celebrated the end of the year of giving after their charitable efforts topped more than £378,000 in donations across Scotland.  

Each year, the five-star housebuilder supports a wide range of organisations promoting health, employability and care among many other causes. This is done through various charity initiatives, including Barratt’s Community Fund, which donates £1,500 to a deserving local cause in each of its Scottish divisions every month.  

Over the last 12 months, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland has provided financial support to a diverse mix of charities throughout the Lothians and Fife – coming at a vital time when many families, individuals and organisations have been affected by rising costs. In total, £82,500 has been donated to good causes in the region.   

At the start of the year, the East of Scotland division named Cash for Kids its main charity partner for 2024/2025 and has since raised a whopping £63,000 for the organisation through donations and various fundraising activities. The charity aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people living locally who are affected by poverty, illness, neglect or have additional needs. The cause also works with grass-roots organisations that aim to make a difference to young lives, directly supporting families who often have nowhere else to go. 

In Fife, Fife Gingerbread – a Glenrothes-based charity that provides accessible, approachable and non-judgemental support, advice and information to lone parents – was awarded £1,500 by the housebuilder, as well as nine members of staff volunteering their time over two days at the charity’s allotment project.  

Meanwhile, Broxburn-based River Kids received a donation of £1,500 to help support disadvantaged children living in and around the West Lothian community. 

Andrew Morrison, Managing Director at Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “We’re proud to support causes that are carrying out essential work in communities throughout Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife. We’re always looking to use our scale for good where and when we can, and our teams have been on hand throughout the year to support this through a mix of volunteering and fundraising, in addition to Community Fund donations. 

“There is so much vital work being done throughout the country, and we hope that we can continue to help make a difference in local communities in 2025.” 

The full list of this year’s beneficiaries includes:   

• Cash for Kids 
• Families First 
• Fife Gingerbread 
• River Kids 
• Care & Repair Edinburgh 
• House of Hope 
• Cyrenians  
• Friends of Craigtoun 
• Acredale Home 
• Children 1st 
• LGBT Youth Scotland 
• FetLor Youth Group 
• Capital Carers 
• Midlothian Foodbank 

For more information on Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes in the East of Scotland, visit https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/scotland-east/ 

Soul Water Sauna has opened at a new location next to Granton Beach.

The wild-spa wellness experience, featuring two Siberian Cedar saunas and cold plunge pools is now open on the banks of the Firth of Forth alongside the Pitt Market on West Shore Road.

Soul Water Sauna, Edinburgh’s first wood fired sauna on Portobello promenade opened in 2022, and since then has fostered a thriving community of sauna enthusiasts.

Dedicated to sharing the incredible and transformative benefits of sauna with people from all walks of life, in just under two years, the sauna has provided over 13,000 hours of sanctuary, warmth and connection to nearly 10,000 sauna goers.

The new site at Granton will provide guests a chance to relax and unwind in beautiful Siberian Cedar saunas, take refreshing dips in the sea or cold plunge pool between sauna sessions, and gather around cozy fire pits, all against the picturesque backdrop of The Forth. The location offers the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset.

This new experience is envisioned as a ‘wild spa’ – a place to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature, oneself, and the community. At Soul Water Sauna, the focus is on slowing down and being present: no social media, no timers – just the warmth of the sauna, the sound of the fire, and the nearby waves on the shore.

Whether guests come to spend time with friends, focus on health benefits, or seek warmth after a cold swim, Soul Water Sauna ensures every visitor feels welcome and supported throughout their experience.Situated alongside The Pitt’s lively atmosphere, the sauna will be surrounded by local street food vendors, lifestyle offerings, and community-driven initiatives. This combination of relaxation and engagement creates a sanctuary where guests can unwind while participating in a broader movement toward sustainability and community connection. Whether seeking warmth after exploring the area or simply looking to connect with like-minded individuals, the new site offers the perfect space to recharge.

Kirsty Carver, Founder of Soul Water Sauna, said: “I can’t wait to bring Soul Water Sauna to the rapidly developing and vibrant Granton community. Our new location offers a unique blend of relaxation and nature, alongside some fantastic local food and music offerings, creating the perfect environment for people to come together, enjoy the many benefits of sauna, and unwind.”
Soul Water Sauna’s expansion represents a commitment to wellness, community, and the beauty of nature, offering a refreshing escape in the heart of Granton.

Bookings can be made to enjoy the new experience at www.soulwatersauna.com

There are some changes to bin collections in the next ten days or so.For kerbside collections the council advises that if your usual collection day is a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, it will change. 

If your usual collection day is:

• Thursday 26 December – the council will empty wheelie bins, glass recycling or food caddies on Friday 27 December
• Friday 27 December – the council will empty wheelie bins, glass recycling or food caddies on Saturday 28 December
• Tuesday 31 December – there is no change
• Wednesday 1 January – the council will empty wheelie bins, glass recycling or food caddies on Thursday 2 January
• Thursday 2 January – the council will empty wheelie bins, glass recycling or food caddies on Friday 3 January
• Friday 3 January – the council will empty wheelie bins, glass recycling or food caddies on Saturday 4 January.

If the usual collection day for gull proof sacks is Wednesday it will be collected on Thursday.

Check your usual bin collection days.

Special uplifts

There are no special uplifts from 21 December to 6 January.

Christmas tree collections

The council will collect Christmas trees from 27 December. Check our collection directory for the days we are collecting trees from your street. 

Garden waste collections

The council will not collect brown bins until 14 January. This is to allow their teams to collect Christmas trees and extra waste and recycling over the festive season.

Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC)

The recycling centres will be closed on 26th December, 1 January and 2 January.

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home have three dogs which are ready to be rehomed immediately.

The home hopes that the trio will have as much good fortune as Maple, a rescue puppy which is now living with her new owner Hannah. The puppy had arrived at the home just eight weeks old requiring intensive care. Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover her treatment, and said the community response was incredible.

Maple’s owner said: “We can’t imagine our home without Maple now, she fits in perfectly. Maple is a cheeky girl who makes us laugh so much. She’s very vocal when she plays with her toys, and it gives us endless entertainment. We’ll forever be grateful to the Home for rescuing our sweet girl.”

• Rocco (one year old, Lurcher): A gentle and playful soul who loves exploring the world and curling up for cuddles. Rocco’s sweet nature would make him the perfect companion for an active household that can offer him all the love he deserves. Rocco’s adoption profile
• Roy (three years old, Border Collie): A big-hearted, cheeky boy who adores toys, treats, and adventures. Roy thrives in an environment where he can be the star of the show, with no other pets to compete for affection. Roy’s adoption profile
• Bear (eight years old, American Bulldog): Bear is a staff favourite, with his puppy like personality he wins over everyone he meets. Bear’s affectionate nature and love for snuggles makes him the perfect couch companion. He also has a playful side and enjoys dashing around with his toys or learning new tricks, especially when treats are involved. Bear thrives in a quiet home with an experienced owner where he can run around in his own garden or relax if he feels overwhelmed. Despite his age, Bear is young at heart and will make a loyal and loving addition to the right family. Bear’s adoption profile

To find out more about Bear, Rocco, Roy, or any of the other Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home residents looking for homes, visit www.edch.org.uk

This winter, the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home aims to raise £134,500. Staggering operational costs mean that every penny raised will ensure that the animals of the Home are well cared for this winter and will also help to ensure more happy stories like Maple and the 281 rehomed and reunited pets this year. Daily service costs at the home amount to £7,000. Donations of as little as £10 can provide essential vaccinations for a cat, while £150 could keep all the Home’s dogs warm for the day. 

Founded in 1883, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has been a lifeline for the community for over 140 years, relying entirely on public donations to sustain its vital work. 

To support the Winter Appeal, visitwww.edch.org.uk/winterappeal or text WARMHEARTS to 70085 to donate £10.  

Hibs moved five points clear of Hearts with their first victory at Tynecastle in five years. 

Hibs head coach David Gray kept faith with the same starting XI that beat Aberdeen last weekend. 

Hearts boss Neil Critchley made two changes to his side that beat Dundee with Beni Baningime and Craig Halkett replacing Adam Forrester and Malachi Boateng.

The game kicked off at the usual 100mph pace before Hibs took the lead in the 9^th minute. 

Kyle Rowles appeared to handle the ball inside the box during a challenge with Boyle. The referee awarded a corner but held play up to hear the result of a VAR check. 

A large cheer from three sides of the ground greeted the decision but they were silenced when Nicky Cadden’s corner kick was diverted past Craig Gordan by Rowles, under pressure from Josh Campbell. 

Referee Nick Walsh consulted his assistant before chalking off the effort for Rocky Bushiri blocking the goalkeeper, however the official would be sent to the monitor by VAR to review the footage and the goal was eventually given sparking wild celebrations from the travelling support. 

On 18 minutes Gordan spilled an angled effort from Nicky Cadden and the danger was cleared. 

Gordon then demonstrated why he is Scotland’s number one saving at the feet of Chris Cadden then acrobatically keeping out Campbell’s header . 

He then denied Elie Youan’s powerful effort from an acute angle. 

The VAR checks caused five minutes of added time and with the home fans ready to boo their team off the park, they equalised  against the run of play in time added on when Blair Spittal’s cross found Lawrence Shankland. 

His header was going well wide only for Bushiri to slice it into the net from close range. 

Jordan Smith was called into action to deny Shankland at his near post. 

Both teams cancelled each other out in the second-half. 

On the hour Hearts carved out a couple of chances with Daniel Oyegoke and Shankland trying their luck from the edge of Hibs but both efforts failed to trouble Smith. 

At the other end Hibs almost took the lead when Nicky Cadden sent a wonderful delivery into the back post and his brother, Chris, rose above James Penrice to power a header goalward that Gordon saved brilliantly at his near post. 

But Hibs were not to be denied and with 12 minutes remaining they deservedly restored their lead when substitute Dwight Gayle  met Nicky Cadden’s cross and steer the ball past Gordon into the far corner of the net. 

Hearts pushed for a leveller but the Hibs defence stood tall with blocks from Bushiri and Jack Iredale. 

After a nervous four minutes of added time the final whistle sounded to spark wild scenes of celebration at the Roseburn end as players and supporters enjoyed the moment. 

Hearts: Gordon, Halkett, Oyegoke, Baningime, Shankland, Devlin, Rowles, Spittal, Wilson, Penrice, Drammeh. Subs: Clark, Grant, Forrest, Boateng, Dhanda, Boyce, Forrester, Vargas, Salazar 

Hibs: Smith, O’Hora, Youan, Boyle, Newell, C.Cadden, Iredale, N.Cadden, Triantis, Campbell, Bushiri Subs: Bursik. Miller, Levitt, Amos, Kwon, Obita, Moriah-Welsh, Hoilett, Gayle 

Attendance 18,726

The First Minister, John Swinney, chaired a meeting on NHS winter preparedness on Boxing Day, and afterwards he urged everyone to familiarise themselves with the best way to access health services.  

Mr Swinney was joined by the Health Secretary, Public Health Minister and representatives from NHS Scotland, Public Health Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service to ensure pressures across the system continue to be effectively managed.

This follows an increase in activity across the health and care system, seen most acutely on the ambulance service, as well as rising cases of influenza A.

Health Secretary, Neil Gray, said: “The festive season is always a challenging time for health and care services and patient safety remains our top priority. While there is acute pressure on the health and care system, in part due to an increase in cases of influenza A, services continue to perform effectively. 

“However, in order to support services over the winter period, it is important that everyone familiarises themselves on the best way to access the care they need, such as NHS Inform’s online tools, to get the right advice quickly and ensure that services such as the ambulance service and A&E can focus on those who need seen urgently.

“We continue to work closely with Health Boards and the Scottish Ambulance Service to maintain a fast response to the most critically unwell, and in these cases people should always dial 999. However, if your condition is not life threatening, you should visit nhsinform.scot or call NHS 24 on 111 first.

“We are also continuing to support our Health Boards in their response to the winter flu season with more than 1.7 million flu and 1 million Covid-19 vaccines having been administered as of 15 December. A selection of clinics will be open between Christmas and New Year and I urge all those who are eligible for vaccinations this winter to come forward as soon as possible to protect themselves against seasonal illnesses.”

• Further advice on how best to protect yourself and others from winter illnesses is available on NHS Inform – Winter illness | NHS inform
• More information on the winter vaccine programme is available on NHS Inform – Winter vaccines
• For advice on minor illnesses and injuries, visit www.nhs24.scot.
• Call 111 for urgent but non-life-threatening health concerns.
• Always call 999 in an emergency.

Whitburn based Trojan swimming club capped  a very successful year in the pool by finishing top of the 2024 Forth Valley Junior League competition and lifting the FVJL Trophy for the first time since 1996.

This success comes on the back of Trojans winning their own annual swimming event, the Trojan Time Banded Gala, earlier this year.

The Forth Valley Junior League (FVJL) is aimed at swimmers who are starting out in competitive swimming. The event is primarily about having fun and learning as you go and features 10 teams from the Forth Valley area –  Bathgate, Bo’ness, Broxburn, Falkirk, Fauldhouse, Grangemouth, Hailes, Livingston, Stirling and Trojan – competing against each other throughout the year. Swimmers can swim in both individual and relay events with most taking part in two or more time banded swims.

Carolyn Cairns, Trojan’s Lead Coach, said: “I’m so proud of our swimmers, my fellow coaches and all those involved with the club behind the scenes. Our achievements this year are testament to all their hard work and commitment throughout the year.”

Colin Matthews, Club Secretary, added:  “This has been a fantastic year for the Club and winning both the FVJL Trophy and the Trojan Time Banded Trophy is a great achievement. We continue to develop our swimmers and have some exciting young talent coming through thanks to our hard-working team of coaches.”

* Trojan ASC currently has around 90 members and caters for young swimmers aged seven upwards with five separate squads. Should you be interested in learning more about the Club or wish to join then please contact the Club via email : trojanasc@outlook.com

• Each year Trojan ASC host its own swimming gala, the Trojan Time Banded Gala which is held each June at Xcite Whitburn Leisure Centre. The gala is open to visiting clubs with 50m events covering each of the four main swimming strokes along a 4x50m Freestyle Relay. This year 12 teams took part including Balfron, Bathgate, Broxburn, Carnoustie, Dunedin, Fauldhouse, Lanark, Livingston, Portobello, SwimIT & Trojan.

Not a suit of armour but a harness of armour. My family and I learn this, amongst other things, during a day trip to Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight.

Here, we immerse ourselves in events featuring archers, a very talented juggling jester, medieval music, how to dress a knight and sword fights. We have no idea that armour weighs as much as five stone and if it isn’t fitted properly the poor knight is rigid and can’t move. It’s imperative that his arms and legs can work properly otherwise he’s a dead man just about walking. It takes time to fit and in fact these days the armour on the arms is stitched together and fitted in one go, whereas originally it would be done separately. Imagine fighting with such a weight bearing down on you and a very cumbersome helmet. Not just physically exhausting but hot, too. Then there are the heavy weapons; swords, shields and war hammers. Apparently, archers were at the front of the army causing problems early on for the enemy, making life easier for the knights. 

Henry (8) has been learning about medieval history at school and during the term visited Arundel Castle so this reinforces what he has learnt and more besides. 

This is what I love about a day trip, you never know what to expect. When we wake at 6am in order to get to the Red Funnel ferry port in Southampton for 8.30am for our 9am sailing, we have no idea what the day has in store. 

After parking our car on the car deck of the Red Falcon ferry we venture out to the outside passenger deck to soak up the weather. It’s a typical changeable early August day and at the moment it’s fine but clouds above are threatening rain. That’s not going to dampen our spirits though. After we wave goodbye to Southampton we go inside and sit on some comfy seats to appreciate the view. An hour later we arrive at East Cowes on the island. It’s a comfortable carefree way to travel.

Carisbrooke Castle at Newport is about half an hour away. It’s where Charles I (1600 to 1649) was imprisoned in the months prior to his trial and execution. English Heritage does a great job of bringing history to life and making it fun. We are all entertained for some considerable time. We go from the bowling green where the archery takes place to a tent where GreenMatthews treat us to medieval music played with instruments from that period including a lute, shawm and a bagpipe.

Apparently the first recorded song back in the 1200s was complaining about the British weather, so very appropriate for today as it just so happens to bucket it down as they play it complete with actions to engage the audience. Another song is about Robin Hood, which the duo says is how Robin Hood first came about, by song. It’s very entertaining and lovely to see that the children are so interested. We could stay the entire day here but we sense that we have stayed long enough and head back to the car for a picnic. 

Watch the videos at www.travelwriter.biz

• www.redfunnel.co.uk
• www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/carisbrooke-castle/
• www.greenmatthews.co.uk

The 1872 Cup will be played on 28 December at Scottish Gas Murrayfield and Edinburgh Trams advise buying tram tickets online to save time on the day.

This is club rugby’s oldest fixture when Edinburgh Rugby square up to Glasgow Warriors. Thousands of fans will use the tram to get to Murrayfield and there are travel deals on offer online.

The Adult Day Tripper offers endless travel for a day between Ingliston Park & Ride and Newhaven for £4.50. And for families there is the Family Day Tripper for two adults and three under 16s to travel for £8.

Becky Love, Edinburgh Trams’ Marketing and Communications Manager, said: “With thousands of customers expected to travel to Murrayfield this weekend, we want to make sure that tram users can benefit from the best-value ticket types – even if they’re supporting Glasgow over Edinburgh! Tram tickets can be bought in advance and printed out or downloaded onto your device before inspection.

“What’s more, booking tickets in advance also means you can take advantage of some great pre-rugby destinations, including Harvey Nichols, Hard Rock Café, or the Johnnie Walker experience on Princes Street for a dram before kick-off. There couldn’t be a better way to enjoy the last weekend of the year!”

On Saturday, Edinburgh Trams will be increasing the service frequency both before and after the game to keep the city moving.

The official ticketing website is here.

Further information on the 1872 Cup can be found here.

Chicago-born Tim Licata learned magic from his favourite uncle – but Sal had more secrets than just how to make cards disappear.

Now living in Edinburgh, and with a career both as an actor and stage magician, Tim is one of the stars of this year’s 15^th annual MagicFest.

His show, which combines theatre with tricks and illusions, talks about how Uncle Sal turned out to be part of the Mafia and Tim’s long-held suspicion that he might have been a notorious hitman known simply as “The Knife”.

He said: “Sal was my favourite uncle, he was great at cards and also at card tricks – which he taught me when I was a boy.

“But as I grew up I discovered there was much more to him than this. The show is partly about him, what he taught me, and my theory that he might actually be ‘The Knife’.”

Close Up and Personal takes place on 29 and 30 December at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, one of the main venues for this year’s Edinburgh International Festival of Magic (MagicFest).

There’s lots of magic, humour and audience involvement throughout the show – which is just one of a host of fabulous performances taking place from now until 30 December.

Kevin Quantum, international magician and founder of MagicFest, said: “Tim is just one of the many great performers we have this year – a superb sleight-of-hand magician, with an amazing tale to tell.

“And we have so much more to offer like up-and-coming star, Dan Bastianelli, who got his start as a boy through MagicFest, and has gone from strength to strength, including having his own sell-out show at this year’s Fringe.

“The festival is a great way to add extra sparkle to the festive season, with shows to suit the whole family, featuring everything from mind-blowing spectacle to breathtaking mind reading.”

Dan’s MagicFest show Deception is a masterclass in close-up magic and takes place on 29 and 30 December.

And, with a new year on the horizon you can also see Lorenzo, with his show Lorenzo, Oracle: Do You Want to See the Future?

It’s a jaw-dropping thought-reading experience that has audiences grinning, scratching their heads and wondering if they have glimpsed their personal future – a premonition party.

• Full MagicFest line up and tickets here magicfest.co.uk

Edinburgh Zoo has shared photos of the animals in its care this Christmas time.

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) “spoils” the animals with food dressed up as gifts. The animals are not given any more food than usual, it is just dressed up differently.

Keepers at the wildlife conservation charity made personalised stockings for some species, including pygmy goats, Fergus the palm civet, and the zoo’s newest residents, a herd of alpacas named Galaxy, Humbug and Bon Bon. 

Edinburgh Zoo is open from Boxing Day onwards. Tickets can be booked online in advance at a discounted rate edinburghzoo.org.uk/tickets.

In good news for pizza lovers Pizza Hut has opened again at 132 Raeburn Place .

The shop was formerly Pizza Hut but operated under a different franchise group.

The new Hut is operated by Fife-based conglomerate Glenshire Group and becomes the 22nd store in their growing portfolio.

The store offers delivery and collection services, while also offering a small seating area for those who want to eat on the go.

The team of 20 includes a store manager, three shift managers, three team members, and ateam of drivers.

Director Zibby Ghafoor said the team are thrilled to be opening in the town.

He said: “We’ve been in talks about bringing Pizza Hut back to Stockbridge for some time after the previous franchise closed the unit.

“We’re bringing a fresh approach to site, with an updated look and feel, new menu, and newequipment.

“This is a great location and we have a lot of people to serve.

“It’s part of an expansion across Scotland and England.

“December is usually a really busy month for the brand so we’re really excited to get going.”

Area Manager Tom Chiemelewski said: “We’re committed to delivering quality, variety, and exceptional service, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone in for their favourite pizzas, sides, and desserts.

“This opening marks another step in our journey to serve more of Scotland, and we’re grateful to the Stockbridge community for their support.”

The franchisee hopes this opening will create around 20 jobs.

The first Soundhouse Winter Festival which was part of Edinburgh’s Fair Saturday events around St Andrew’s Day has been declared a success after the numbers have been crunched.

The festival of jazz, indy and folk music ran from 28 November to 2 December and attracted a mainly local audience with almost three quarters coming from Edinburgh.

The festival included sell-out performances by the Nicole Smit Quintet, Fergus McCreadie with an outstanding performance from guest Italian star Mattia Galeotti on drums and Su-a Lee performing alongside a stellar line-up of trad favourites – Duncan Chisholm, Donald Shaw and Hamish Napier. 

Other popular highlights included a screening of The Rugged Island: A Shetland Lyric (1933), opened by Shetland pianist Amy Laurenson, and accompanied by music composed by award winning multi-instrumentalist Inge Thomson from Fair Isle with Shetlander Catriona Macdonald; a preview of rock goddess Megan Black’s new album; and a performance of Unwritten Women read by Edinburgh’s former Makar Hannah Lavery to a new score written and performed by Kate Young.

Jane Ann Purdy and Douglas Robertson, producers of the Soundhouse Winter Festival, said: “We are thrilled with the appetite that audiences have shown for live music during the winter months. We knew that people would come out for the festival if we programmed great music, so that’s what we did and it paid off. It’s been an absolute blast to present five days of jazz, rock, punk, poetry, and silent film, not a line-up we have had the opportunity to programme before, but one that we would definitely look to repeat next year.”

The Soundhouse Organisation returns in May with more live music at the Traverse for Edinburgh’s Tradfest (2-12 May 2025). Dates for the Soundhouse Winter Festival 2025 are to be confirmed.

Support for the festival came from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

POLICE UPDATE: Gary Hardie, 73, reported missing from the Lanark Road West area of Edinburgh, has been traced.

Thank you to everyone who shared and responded to our appeal.

Police are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 73-year-old man reported missing from the Currie area of Edinburgh.

Gary Hardie was last seen around 2.30am on Thursday, 26 December, 2024, in Lanark Road West and is most likely to be out walking, possibly heading to the Drylaw area of the city.

He is described as white, around 5ft 8ins, of medium build and with short grey hair, bald on top. When last seen he was wearing a maroon jumper, blue jeans and blue trainers.

Inspector George Nisbet said: “Concerns are growing for Gary’s welfare and it is important that we make sure he is safe and well.

“He may have been walking around and heading towards the Telford Drive and Mountcastle Loan areas where he has connections.

“We are asking people to keep a look out for Gary and also check gardens, sheds and outbuildings in case he has sought shelter or become disorientated.

“If you have seen Gary or know where he might be then please get in touch with us immediately.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 0389 of Thursday, 26 December.

The Gaelic community organisation Ionad Gàidhlig Dhùn Èideann has published the results of its survey about the possible benefits of a Gaelic Hub for Edinburgh. This would be a social and cultural space where Gaelic speakers and learners in Edinburgh could come together for different kinds of Gaelic activities and events. 

The body says that the results show overwhelming support for a Gaelic Hub. From the survey 85.4% of respondents said that a Gaelic hub would be very important for Edinburgh’s Gaelic community, and a further 9.4% said that it would be somewhat useful.

The survey asked how useful a hub would be for Edinburgh, how often people might use a hub and what activities and services people might like to see offered, and what might make a hub more or less appealing. Around 450 individuals and organisations completed the survey and submitted more than 30,000 words of suggestions, recommendations and ideas.

Different kinds of Gaelic cultural hubs have been developed in Inverness, Glasgow and Stornoway and are long established in Ireland.

Wilson McLeod, Chair of Ionad Gàidhlig Dhùn Èideann said: “We are excited to see such strong support from the community for establishing a Gaelic hub in Edinburgh. The time is right to make this vision a reality.”

Development Officer Sarah Scott said: “A Gaelic hub could make a huge difference in providing a home for Gaelic organisations and activities in Edinburgh and securing the place of the language in the capital city.”

The report is available at this link:

Corstorphine Cougars have capped an unbeaten league season by winning the Arnold Clark Scottish women’s rugby premiership with a 22-20 victory over defending champions, Stirling County.

Tries by Merryn Gunderson, Katie Lindsay and Kiyomi Honjigawa added to seven points from the boot of Lisa Martin secured the silverware in front of a bumper crowd at Union Park, Edinburgh.

Afterwards proud coach Eric Jones summed up both the occasion and the team’s journey to the top of the podium.

“Corstorphine Cougars have had remarkable growth in the last seven seasons since the Club returned to Union Park after the merger between Corstorphine and Royal High fell apart ending a 14 year project.

“In the first season there were sometimes only three players at training and the range of experience among the players went from a fairly new player to a then current Scottish International, Karen Dunbar.

“During that first season players were borrowed from other clubs

and we even picked up players on the way to games who had never trained with us.

“We always fulfilled our fixtures and always put out 15 players, but this isn’t what Women’s Premiership Rugby should be looking like and it’s understandable why so many of the talented players around that time headed to the English Premiership to get good training environments and top quality matches.

“Fast forward from 2017 to 2024 and we’ve just won the Premiership without losing a game in the League season. We’ve had a really good vision at the Club about what we want to achieve. We’re still working at it, but there are a lot of players that have put in an amazing amount of work to get to where we are today.

“We’ve gone from having three at training to having over 30 players at training which opens up so many options about what you can do as a coaching team to develop the players.

“The average age of the squad in 2017 was 28 and there was no youth programme in place. Whilst we’re still working at developing a girls youth programme the average age of the team that won the Premiership was 24.5 with the average age of the bench being 20 years old and 2 months.

“We used 29 players in the 1st XV League campaign this season across the 15 games and our 2nd XV has competed in the Regional One League.

“We had 15 players invited to the Celtic Challenge (for district teams) this season, with 10 eventually being selected for Edinburgh or Glasgow.

“Whilst the season structure needs looked at to give both the Women’s Premiership and the Celtic Challenge their own space, it show’s that we have a good record of preparing players to play at the Celtic Challenge level and to International level with the only

current Scottish capped player, Alex Stewart, playing in Scotland.

The game last weekend was a proper arm wrestle. We went 10-0 up, then 10-5, 10-10, 10-15 down, 17-15 up, 17-20 down and then with four minutes to play Kiyomi came back after her yellow card and scored in the corner for us to go 22-20 up and then I thought we managed the last, long, four minutes well.

“The squad have shown some real resilience all season in the games where it’s mattered and to do it at Union Parkwas a great occasion and celebration of the Club game and where it’s at.

“Some who played with Corstorphine men when they were in the old Division Two said that they’d never seen the place so busy, which is a good news story in itself as many clubs aren’t reporting the same stories.”

Rare 17th century Indian mother of pearl vessels found on the Penicuik Estate attract international interest at London auction.

A collection of gleaming vessels made from mother-of-pearl seashells discovered at Penicuik Estate near Edinburgh were the star of Lyon & Turnbull’s Islamic & Indian Art auction in London this month and sold for more than £75,000.   

Penicuik Estate has been owned by the Clerk family since 1654. Once a hub of the Scottish Enlightenment, today the Estate’s Palladian architecture ranks as some of the finest and most original in Scotland.

Merchant John Clerk (1611-1674), who had made his fortune in Paris, purchased the Estate in 1654 with the existing house Newbiggin from the heirs of Margaret Scott, the Countess of Eglinton. In 1647 John Clerk had married Mary Gray, fourth daughter of Sir William Gray of Pittendrum by whom he had five sons and five daughters. He married for a second time in 1670 to Elizabeth Johnston, and upon his death he was succeeded by his eldest son, John Clerk, who became the 1st Baronet in 1679.

Lyon and Turnbull explain that “mother-of-pearl was prized by the Portuguese settlers in Gujarat for its luminous and lustrous qualities, and they consequently commissioned craftsmen to decorate furniture, arms and armour, and whole dinner services with it, amongst other things.

“At first, 19th century art historians believed these types of mother-of-pearl vessels were European due to their shape. However, a recorded example listed in an inventory dated to 1586 in the Dresden Green Vaults, shows that vessels of this style are known to have been brough to Europe as early as the 16th century. They were especially cherished by European nobility who exhibited them in their ‘kunstkammer’.

“Similar scallop-edged dishes along with other shaped vessels decorated in mother-of-pearl are to be found in the Victoria & Albert Museum and in The British Museum.”

Around 80% of the auction items sold for a total of £385,000 in London in just 104 lots, confirmed the strength of the Arts of India & the Islamic world.

Kristina Sanne, Head of Sale, said: “The auction was a small select offering, featuring works of art and paintings of high quality that proved to be of great interest to private bidders, museums and institutions from no fewer than 15 countries around the globe.”

Hibs head coach David Gray is looking forward to tomorrow’s Edinburgh derby at Tynecastle. 

Hibs will make the short trip over the Tynecastle and go into the game in excellent form having won three of their last four William Hill Premiership fixtures. 

Including arguably their best performance of the season in a 3-1 victory over Aberdeen at Pittodrie. 

Hibs go into the game in eighth place, two places above Hearts but knowing victory for the Gorgie side would see them leapfroged in the table. 

Victory on the other hand would open up a five point gap so it’s all to play for. 

Speaking at the pre-match press conference Gray said: ““You can’t get carried away with the current form. The derby will take care of itself. We have to recover quickly, and attention will quickly change to Hearts. 

“It’s a game everyone should look forward to, it’s the best game in the calendar, and the one all the fans rightly talk about. 

“We will make sure the players are ready for it. We’re going into it in the best possible way with back-to-back wins, which is the first time we’ve done that since December ’23, and now we have to improve on that; that’s the challenge.” 

In their last two games, Gray’s men have come from behind to win – and that type of character will be hugely important on Boxing Day. 

“Character and mentality will be massive, it always is. It’s something that’s been questioned of this squad for some time, especially this season, and we’ve responded over the last few weeks when we’ve been tested. 

“We go into the game with belief, but knowing it’ll be a tough game. I’ve played in numerous derbies and the form book goes out the window. 

“We need to be ready for a real tough test but every player should look forward to it. 

“I know the fans will look forward to it, and hopefully we can go there and get three points.” 

Both Warren O’Hora and Joe Newell came off with knocks on Saturday, and our Head Coach gave an update on them. 

“Warren picked up a knock against Ross County, which forced him off the pitch.  

“He did well to recover as quick as did, but he stiffened up at half-time against Aberdeen just because of the nature of the injury. We will see how he recovers. 

“As for Joe, it’s probably too early to say. I’m sure he will be fine. It was more of an impact, and hopefully it’ll settle down quickly. 

“There are numerous boys that have knocks but the three points against Aberdeen will certainly make them feel better.” 

The Rt Rev Dr Shaw Paterson, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotla sends his Christmas message to everyone today.

We are currently enjoying the season of Advent – a time of prayer and preparation for the coming of God’s Son into the world.

God had promised a Messiah and generations had prayed and hoped for the Messiah to come.

The prophecies of his birth can be found in numerous places in the Old Testament in the Bible.

We read that it was to be in the town of Bethlehem, known as David’s town and we know that there were to be signs.

But these were either ignored or missed completely.

And so, all ‘the hopes and fears of all the years’ were bound up in a little baby wrapped in what was traditionally referred to as ‘swaddling clothes’ and lying in a manger.

And the only people who visited were the shepherds and the Wise Men.

I recently discovered a completely blank post-it note in the pocket of one of my newly washed and ironed clerical shirts.

Whatever had been written on it, probably someone’s name and address for visiting, was totally washed out and I haven’t got a clue who I was meant to be visiting or where I was meant to be going. 

Hopefully, I didn’t miss an appointment with someone.

It’s difficult to miss Christmas especially given that the adverts and all that go with them start so early but it’s easy to miss what is truly at the heart of Christmas, and that is individuals, families, congregations and communities. 

We’ve kept that appointment, as we’ve welcomed the gift of God given to us in Jesus Christ and having received that gift we are encouraged to share it.

For the message of Christmas is not simply an annual appointment.

Jesus brought into our world hope, peace, joy and love – represented by the candles lit on the four Sundays of Advent.

As we look around us, as we see the difficulties and tensions, the conflicts and wars, as we see the needs that exist all around us, this world of ours needs to experience those gifts of God: hope, peace, joy and love.

Be blessed this Christmas and I pray that there might be hope, peace, joy and love in the lives of everyone for we are all God’s children.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you, may the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

The busiest bus stop in East Lothian sees nearly 900 passengers use it every day, a new study has revealed,

The bus shelter outside Musselburgh Police Station came top of the list after users were monitored over a two week period across the county.

The list revealed 12,388 people used the stop on the High Street making it the most popular travel spot in East Lothian.

It was followed by Tranent Police Station’s bus stop which saw 9,851 passengers pass through over the same period and Haddington High Street stop which came in third with 7,458 travellers.

The list of stops which saw more than 1,000 travellers over the two weeks of monitoring was pulled together for East Lothian Council has part of a study into future sites of journey hubs in the county.

It found the Musselburgh westbound stop was by far the most used in the county with only eight attracting more than 3,000 passengers over the fortnight.

Other Musselburgh bus stops which made the list included the one outside The Hayweights in North High Street which had 4, 277 while nearby stop at the Ship Inn saw 3,295 users.

Prestonpan’s Bus Shelter, which has its own social media following on X formerly Twitter, did not make the list.

The survey was carried out in September last year and used data from two of the biggest operators in the county East Coast Buses and Borders Buses so some stops which are covered by other operators were not included.

It found the most trafficked bus stops were Musselburgh Police Station, Tranent Police station, Tranent High Street, Musselburgh Hayweights (near Brunton Hall), Dunbar High Street, Musselburgh, Shipp Inn and North Berwick, Church Road.

The information will be used to help establish the best spots for future journey hubs across the county and are part of a wider consultation and survey of East Lothian travellers and what they would like to be offered at the hubs.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter