Axel Piper

Scotland's leading first aid charity has launched a fresh push to close dangerous gaps in lifesaving skills among minority ethnic communities. New research from St Andrew's First Aid, released on December 26, 2025, shows stark differences in CPR and defibrillator knowledge, urging quick action to save lives across the nation. Key Findings from the Latest Study The study paints a clear picture of first aid inequalities in Scotland. It surveyed people from various backgrounds and found big differences in basic emergency skills. Just 26 percent of those in minority ethnic groups said they had learned CPR, compared to almost 40…

Football fans around the world mourn the loss of John Robertson, a beloved Nottingham Forest and Scotland star, who passed away at age 72. He died peacefully at home on Christmas Day 2025 after battling a long illness, surrounded by his family. This tragic news came just hours after the holiday, leaving a void in the sport. Robertson, known for his skill on the wing, helped shape some of football's most memorable moments in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Early Life and Rise in Football John Robertson was born on January 20, 1953, in Uddingston, Scotland. He started his…

Scottish tennis star Andy Murray is teaming up with Walker's Shortbread for a festive campaign rolling out in major UK airports this holiday season. The push, launched in mid-December 2025, highlights Scottish heritage through tastings, games and special gifts, drawing crowds at spots like Edinburgh and London Heathrow. Campaign Launch and Key Features Walker's Shortbread kicked off its Christmas drive on December 15, 2025, with pop-up activations in five busy UK airports. These include Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Heathrow, Gatwick South and London Stansted, timed to catch travelers heading home for the holidays. The effort builds on Murray's role as the…

A whimsical home near Cumnock called Holly Jolly Mouse House took the top prize in Scotland's Christmas Home of the Year 2025. Owners Ellenor and Gary impressed judges with their creative mouse themed decorations, beating four other festive homes in a close contest aired on BBC Scotland. Inside the Winning Home Holly Jolly Mouse House stands out for its fun and detailed Christmas setup. The couple turns their space into a magical world each year, with themes planned months ahead. This time, they chose Mouseland, complete with a tiny ski slope for mice in the hall and a Night Before…

A Scottish charity called Digital Xtra has just handed out nearly 120,000 pounds in grants to spark interest in technology among young people. This move, announced on December 15, 2025, will fund 27 projects across 17 local areas, helping kids learn key skills like coding and robotics amid a growing demand for tech talent in Scotland. What the Grants Mean for Scotland's Future These grants come at a vital time when Scotland needs more skilled workers in digital fields. Experts say the demand for tech skills far outstrips the supply, with jobs in sectors like healthcare, finance, and renewable energy…

Europe transforms into a magical playground during winter, with snowy landscapes, festive markets, and cozy city vibes drawing travelers from around the world. For 2025, experts highlight spots like Lapland in Finland for northern lights and Zagreb in Croatia for lively Christmas events, offering everything from ski adventures to warm escapes amid thinner crowds and lower prices. This surge in winter travel comes as more people seek unique experiences beyond summer peaks. Recent surveys show a 15 percent rise in bookings for European winter trips this year, driven by affordable flights and authentic local festivals. Why Winter Travel in Europe…

Scotland's popular festive home competition has announced its five finalists for 2025, showcasing creative holiday decorations from across the country. Judges visited unique homes in Peterhead, Edinburgh, Millport, Burntisland, and near Cumnock, with the winner set to be revealed on BBC One Scotland on Monday, December 15, 2025. Excitement Builds for Festive Showdown Fans of home design shows are buzzing about the return of Scotland's Christmas Home of the Year. This special edition focuses on how families transform their spaces into winter wonderlands, blending tradition with modern flair. The competition highlights real people who pour heart into their decorations. It…

Scotland fans are up in arms over what they call ridiculous ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. The backlash grew after the ticket ballot opened this week, with prices for group stage games starting at £134 and climbing to £523, sparking widespread criticism from supporters, politicians, and fan groups. Outrage Builds Among Scotland Supporters Fans who waited 28 years for Scotland to qualify for the World Cup now face steep costs to cheer on their team. Many took to social media to vent frustration, calling the prices a betrayal of loyal followers. The national team…

The Jaecoo J7 crossover has claimed the title of Family Car of the Year 2025 at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards. This win highlights its strong performance in real world tests, focusing on comfort and safety for families in tough Scottish weather. Judges from the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers praised the vehicle for its quiet cabin, easy to use controls, and smart driver aids that shine during rain and wind. The award came after thorough evaluations on diverse roads, from busy city streets to rural highways. What Makes the Jaecoo J7 Stand Out This crossover stands out…

Schools in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, have started to reduce their operating hours because of a sharp increase in flu cases among students and staff. This move, announced just 15 hours ago, aims to curb the spread of illness while shifting some lessons online, mirroring actions seen in other parts of the UK amid a growing winter health crisis. Impact on Local Education The decision affects a small number of primary schools and academies in Aberdeenshire, where absence rates have climbed higher than usual. Council officials explained that without enough staff to cover classes, some year groups must stay home and join…