Chris Muir

Scottish builders are voicing their expectations for 2025 as the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Scotland Board convenes for its first meeting of the year. With workforce challenges and industry conditions at the forefront, the meeting provided a platform for key discussions on the future of construction in Scotland. FMB Scotland Board: Who They Are and What They Do The FMB Scotland Board consists of 13 elected members, each representing building firms from across the country. From Glasgow to Glenrothes, Lerwick to Lewis, members traveled to Stirling for the first in-person gathering of 2025. Led by Scotland President Pam Wilson,…

Right Medicine Pharmacy has named Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland as its charity partner for 2025, marking the second consecutive year of collaboration between the two organizations. The independent pharmacy group, which operates 43 locations across Scotland, raised £10,000 for CHSS last year through various fundraising events. This year, it aims to surpass that total with an expanded commitment to charitable initiatives. Continued Support for a Vital Cause Richard Stephenson, director of operations at Right Medicine Pharmacy, expressed enthusiasm for the renewed partnership: “We thought the partnership with CHSS was fantastic last year. We had a brilliant year of raising…

Dumpit Scotland, a leading SEPA-registered waste management company, is expanding its services across Scotland. With over 15 years of experience, the Glasgow-based firm is doubling down on its commitment to efficient, eco-friendly waste disposal. By prioritizing recycling and charitable donations, the company is reducing landfill contributions while serving both residential and commercial clients. A Growing Presence in Scotland For years, Dumpit Scotland has been a trusted name in waste management across several key locations. Customers in Hillhead, Shawlands, Partick, Paisley, East Kilbride, and Cumbernauld have relied on the company for seamless waste removal. Now, with an expanded reach, more communities…

A growing financial squeeze on general practice in parts of Scotland is pushing GPs into private work, overseas opportunities, and even non-medical jobs like Uber driving. The situation has raised alarm among medical leaders who fear the trend could spread nationwide. Locum Opportunities Drying Up Doctors in affected regions report that locum sessions have become almost non-existent due to budget pressures on GP practices. With fewer available shifts, many are being forced to explore alternative sources of income, including working in private healthcare or relocating abroad. One sentence here. A Worrying Trend for Scottish Healthcare The financial strain on GP…

A confident France will host Scotland at the Stade de France on Saturday, knowing that a victory with four tries or more will secure them the Six Nations title. For head coach Fabien Galthie, this match represents a chance to claim his second championship in charge, marking a high point amid an otherwise turbulent tenure. France’s Title Hopes Hang in the Balance Les Bleus are in a strong position, but the margin for error remains slim. Sitting at the top of the standings, they control their own fate, a position Galthie relishes. "It's our supreme objective, it's what we wanted…

BayWa r.e. has submitted a Section 36 application to the Scottish government for its proposed 500MW Redshaw battery energy storage system (BESS) in South Lanarkshire. If approved, this would mark the largest project of its kind in the company's UK portfolio, reinforcing Scotland's push toward a net-zero future. Strategic Location and Grid Stability Benefits The proposed Redshaw BESS is set to be located just 3km south of Douglas, adjacent to Scottish Power Transmission’s planned 400kV Redshaw substation. This strategic placement will enable the facility to store surplus renewable energy and release it during peak demand, ensuring greater grid stability and…

A former Scottish cricketer who exposed racism in the sport has been "victimised" for his stance, an independent report has found. Majid Haq, who was sent home from the 2015 Cricket World Cup after making comments about race, has faced backlash ever since. The findings raise fresh concerns about the handling of racism allegations within Scottish cricket. Report Highlights Concerns Over Cricket Scotland's Handling of Racism Allegations An independent report has concluded that Majid Haq was not only sidelined for speaking out about racism but was also subjected to further discrimination in the aftermath. The findings follow a damning 2022…

A fatal shooting outside a grocery store in Scotland County has left one man dead and another facing first-degree murder charges. Authorities say the incident unfolded late Sunday night, sending shockwaves through the small North Carolina community. Late-Night Violence Outside Laurel Hill Food Mart Deputies with the Scotland County Sheriff's Office responded to a distress call just before midnight on Pate Street, where they discovered 55-year-old Allen Dean McKenzie lying beside his truck. He had suffered a gunshot wound and was in critical condition. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, McKenzie did not survive. His death has left friends…

A decade-long investment plan worth £70m has been signed to bolster the economy of Argyll and Bute, unlocking funds for tourism, housing, and marine innovation. After a year-long delay, the Scottish and UK governments have each pledged £25m, with additional contributions from the local council and other stakeholders amounting to £20m. Major Investment to Revive Rothesay Pavilion and Boost Tourism A significant portion of the deal is earmarked for Rothesay Pavilion, a historic venue that has remained closed since 2015. £9m will be allocated to complete its refurbishment, transforming it into a multi-use events space with offices and a cafe.…

Scotland's islands hold a secret: hiking trails that time and tourists forgot. These paths offer the chance to walk with nature, not just look at it. You'll see breathtaking views, of course. From wild coasts to peaceful lochs, each trail offers something special. This article uncovers five hidden hiking trails across Scotland's islands. If you're an adventurer at heart, this is your invitation to discover the beauty that lies off the beaten path. Isle of Jura: Paps of Jura Trail The Paps of Jura dominate the skyline of the Isle of Jura, forming a trio of rugged peaks that challenge…