Axel Piper

In Abu Dhabi, expat families often face tough starts when kids switch to international schools, but many turn challenges into success stories. Take Phil Johnson's twin daughters, who moved from Scotland in January 2024 and went from tears on their first day to confident smiles by 2025, highlighting how support systems help expat children adjust to UAE school life. Early Struggles for Newcomers Moving to a new country flips everything upside down for kids, especially teens. Phil Johnson, a journalist who relocated his family from rural Scotland to Abu Dhabi, saw this firsthand with his 11-year-old twins, Emma and Naja.…

In a strange turn of events at the Maple Leaf North-West Ground in King City, Ontario, Canada, ground staff set the cricket pitch on fire to dry it after heavy rain delayed the start of the ICC World Cup League 2 match between Scotland and Namibia on August 29, 2025. The unusual method drew attention from players and fans, but the game was eventually abandoned without a ball bowled due to ongoing wet conditions. This incident highlights the challenges of outdoor sports in unpredictable weather, especially in a key tournament for World Cup qualification. As teams battle for points in…

Glasgow-based MedTech startup Seluna has raised nearly €752K to advance its AI-powered tool for diagnosing pediatric sleep disorders. The company also launched a key NHS validation study on August 28, 2025, aiming to address the underdiagnosis of childhood sleep apnea that affects millions of kids worldwide. Funding Boost for Innovation Seluna's recent funding round brings fresh capital to push forward its mission in pediatric health. Led by Gabriel Investment Syndicate, the investment includes support from Scottish Enterprise, University of Strathclyde, and new investor STAC Invest. This totals about £650K in British pounds, converted to euros at current rates. The money…

Scotland is grappling with its worst water scarcity in years, as six eastern regions reach the highest alert level due to months of low rainfall and dry conditions. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency announced on August 29, 2025, that prolonged drought has left rivers at critically low levels, triggering restrictions on water use for farmers and businesses. Current Water Scarcity Levels Across Scotland The crisis has escalated quickly this week, with more areas moving into higher risk categories. Officials warn that without steady rain, the situation could worsen in the coming days. Rainfall data shows the east has seen below-average…

Scotland faces a growing flood threat, with watchdogs warning that many at-risk homes may not get needed protection due to funding and leadership failures. A new report from the Auditor General and Accounts Commission highlights how the current system fails to deliver on time, leaving communities vulnerable as climate change worsens flooding. Report Reveals System Flaws The joint report, released on August 28, 2025, states that the way money is allocated for flood defenses in Scotland is not fit for purpose. This means projects meant to safeguard homes could be delayed or scrapped altogether. Experts point out that existing flood…

Scotland has taken a bold step in aquaculture by approving the nation's first semi closed containment salmon farm. The Scottish government gave the green light to Loch Long Salmon's project on Loch Long near Arrochar, overturning a local planning refusal in a move that highlights innovative technology already successful in Norway, Canada, and the Faroe Islands. Project Details and Timeline The approval came on August 26, 2025, after a lengthy review process. Loch Long Salmon plans to invest 40 million pounds in this facility, which will use semi closed systems to farm salmon more sustainably. This decision follows years of…

Scottish Labour has slammed the SNP government for letting affordable home completions drop sharply, worsening the nation's housing emergency. Official figures reveal a steady decline in new builds over recent years, prompting calls for urgent action from Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan. Labour Blasts SNP Over Housing Failures Scottish Labour leaders point to a clear pattern of decline in housing supply that has left thousands without affordable options. They argue that the government's inaction has only made the crisis worse, especially after Scotland declared a national housing emergency in 2024. Mark Griffin, Scottish Labour's housing spokesman, stated that the drop in…

Apex Traffic Management Limited, a key player in road signage and barriers, has entered administration and ceased trading, resulting in 119 job losses across Scotland and England. The Uddingston-based company made this move on August 22, 2025, after directors petitioned Hamilton Sheriff Court amid mounting financial pressures. Company History and Operations Apex Traffic Management started as a small operation in Scotland and grew into a major supplier of traffic control services. The firm handled roadworks equipment for big clients like Transport Scotland and Highways England. Over the years, Apex expanded its reach. It provided services for events such as horse…

Italy is teaming up with Croatia, Scotland, and Greece to boost nostalgication, a fresh travel trend that lets GenZ travelers dive into the past through vintage rail journeys and cultural heritage sites. Set for a big rise in 2026, this movement helps young people escape modern stress by reliving simpler times in Europe's stunning spots. What Is Nostalgication and Why GenZ Loves It Nostalgication mixes old school charm with today's ease, drawing GenZ who want real connections over quick trips. This trend popped up as people seek comfort in a busy world, with surveys showing over 70 percent of young…

In the scenic glen of Glenisla in Angus, Scotland, a master thatcher recently traveled hours to fix a hole in what experts believe is the country's last remaining thatched roundhouse. This unique lodge house on the Knockshannoch estate highlights the fading tradition of thatched roofs while showcasing the area's abundant wildlife, drawing attention on August 22, 2025. The Unique Roundhouse in Glenisla Nestled at the edge of the Cairngorms, Glenisla serves as a gateway between lowlands and highlands. The roundhouse, with its circular design and reed thatch, stands as a testament to Scotland's rural past. Built on the Knockshannoch estate,…