News

Public Health Scotland flags rising presence of nitazenes, as drug deaths spike and testing struggles to keep up. Scotland’s fight against drug-related deaths has taken a grim turn. A sharp rise in suspected fatalities between March and May this year is being linked to the growing presence of potent synthetic opioids — specifically, a class of drugs known as nitazenes. The latest figures released by Public Health Scotland (PHS) show 312 suspected drug deaths in just three months. That’s a 15% jump from the previous quarter. Behind that rise, experts say, could be substances most people have never even heard…

An independent review praises Scotland’s “compassionate” approach but warns that too many disabled people still find the system confusing and hard to access. Scotland’s flagship disability benefit, hailed for its humanity and a gentler tone than its UK counterpart, is facing a reckoning. A new report has urged ministers to simplify the Adult Disability Payment system before a dramatic rise in claimants and costs puts it under serious pressure. The warning comes as projections show the number of people receiving the payment is set to nearly double within six years — from 379,000 today to more than 703,000 by 2030.…

More than 7,000 officers were deployed across Scotland for Donald Trump’s private visit, with four arrests made and costs still under wraps. Former US President Donald Trump’s whirlwind tour of Scotland last weekend may have been private, but the scale of the security response was anything but. Police Scotland confirmed the deployment of over 7,000 officers across the country, making it one of the largest security operations in its history. The visit, which began Friday and stretched across Trump’s Turnberry resort in Ayrshire and a new golf course opening in Aberdeenshire, also led to four arrests—including one mid-flight on an…

Scotland became the unexpected epicenter of global politics and pro golf this week, as U.S. President Donald Trump, U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and European Tour Chief Executive Guy Kinnings all gathered on the windswept greens of Trump International Golf Links in Aberdeen. But this wasn’t just about tee shots and tartan. Behind the scenes, it marked a symbolic moment—where sport, diplomacy, and legacy-building all quietly overlapped. Trump Tees Off, Opens New Course, and Ends Four-Day Visit Trump’s four-day Scottish trip ended on a ceremonial note Tuesday when he officially opened the brand-new “New Course” at his Aberdeen resort.…

Forget the crowds of Edinburgh and the bagpipe echoes of the Royal Mile. Scotland’s Highlands are calling—and they whisper, not shout. If you’ve ever wanted to disappear into raw, wild beauty with nothing but nature and a gently rocking train carriage for company, this is the escape you've been waiting for. Welcome to the hidden Highland rails—where peace isn't just a mood, it’s a destination. Where Time Stands Still: Stromeferry and the Kyle Line Some stations you pass through. Others make you stop—and breathe. Stromeferry, tucked along the postcard-worthy Kyle Line, doesn’t show up in guidebooks with fanfare. But that’s…

Scotland’s Southern region is gearing up for a cleaner, warmer future—and it’s got expert backing. Natural Power, a leading renewable energy consultancy, has helped launch a new regional heat network prospectus that could transform how homes and businesses stay warm across Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders. It’s a big leap forward, and people are starting to pay attention. First-of-its-Kind Prospectus Targets Local Energy Revolution Unveiled by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) in partnership with both regional councils, the new South of Scotland Heat Network Prospectus lays out 19 potential heat network sites across the area. These aren't just…

The Scotland schedule of Son of Sardaar 2 wrapped with tears, memories, and a heartfelt tribute—especially from lead actor Mrunal Thakur, who revealed a deeply personal moment while filming the movie’s emotional song. She wasn’t just acting through grief. She was living it. A Sequel With Soul, A Set Full of Emotions Filming a sequel is rarely a clean slate. It carries the echoes of its predecessor. Son of Sardaar 2, loosely connected to the 2012 Ajay Devgn starrer, stepped into that legacy while also carrying something entirely its own—a different tone, a new set of emotions, and a painful…

IKM Testing UK, a major service provider to the energy sector, is charging into its next phase of expansion with a new leader at the helm. Barry Summers has been named Regional Director, stepping into the role as the company announces a remarkable £23 million in contract wins within just the first half of 2025. A Leadership Shift Amid Soaring Growth Barry Summers isn’t new to IKM or the energy world. With over 14 years of experience across the global IKM Group, he’s well-acquainted with the demands and dynamics of the sector. He’s stepping into the position following the retirement…

Scotland’s biggest two-day agricultural show is going all in on flavour this year, with nearly 50 top producers descending on Turriff to show off the country’s best food and drink. And yes, the pink elderflower cordial will be flowing. A Pavilion That Steals the Show Every year, the EQ Food and Drink Pavilion becomes the heart—and stomach—of the Turriff Show. Scheduled for August 3 and 4 at The Haughs, this year’s showcase promises a feast for the senses. From artisan ice creams to craft spirits, small-batch cordials to homegrown pork pies, visitors will be treated to the full spectrum of…

Plans are in motion that could radically reshape a section of the River Clyde in Glasgow’s city centre. With £25 million earmarked for redevelopment, the transformation of Custom House Quay and Carlton Place is officially on the table — and it’s more than just cosmetic. Two Historic Spots, One Big Makeover Glasgow’s relationship with the Clyde runs deep. But anyone walking the Custom House Quay or Carlton Place stretch lately knows it's seen better days. The buildings are battered. The quay walls? Crumbling. The Spanish Civil War memorial? A solemn feature that may soon be moved to make way for…