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As Russian missiles pound Ukraine's power plants for the third brutal winter, thousands of families who found safety in Scotland now face a heartbreaking question. Many have built new lives here, yet their hearts still ache for home. Their towns lie in ruins. Their visas have been extended. And peace feels further away than ever. War Enters Its Third Cruel Winter Russia's latest bombing campaign has plunged millions of Ukrainians into darkness and cold. In Kharkiv, Sumy and Odesa, entire districts sit without heat as temperatures drop to -15C. Hospitals run on generators. Children study by candlelight. President Zelenskyy says…

A direct ferry linking Scotland and northern France could return as early as late 2026, eight years after the last freight ships left Rosyth and sixteen years after passengers last sailed straight to the continent. The surprise revival is tied to Dunkirk's colossal €40bn (£35bn) port transformation that is already attracting battery giants, hydrogen projects and low-carbon steel production. Local leaders say the scheme could become Europe's blueprint for bringing heavy industry back to life without wrecking the planet. Port officials and shipping sources confirm talks are "very advanced" for a new Rosyth-Dunkirk service combining roll-on roll-off freight with passenger…

Scotland's potato growers, agronomists, and seed experts have marked their calendars. Potatoes in Practice, the UK's largest outdoor potato event, is back on Thursday 13 August 2026 at the James Hutton Institute's Balruddery Farm near Dundee, with a laser-sharp focus on future-proofing an industry facing its toughest challenges in decades. Future Proofing Theme Hits Home as Pressure Mounts This year's theme could not be more urgent. Extreme weather, rising input costs, potato cyst nematode (PCN) pressure, and tightening environmental rules are squeezing margins across Britain. "We are at a turning point," says Jonathan Snape, head of the National Potato Innovation Centre…

KATHMANDU, Nepal - Captain Kathryn Bryce produced a sensational all-round display to lead Scotland to a commanding 39-run victory over Ireland in the Super Six stage of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier on Wednesday. The 27-year-old first smashed a quick-fire 30 from 23 balls to help Scotland post 160 for 5, then ripped through Ireland's top order with figures of 4 for 21 as the Irish were bundled out for 121 in 19.2 overs at the Tribhuvan University Ground in Kirtipur. This result keeps Scotland's dream of a first-ever Women's T20 World Cup appearance very much alive. Bryce…

Scotland just became the first UK nation to force every new home to include nesting places for swifts, passing a law that campaigners are calling a game-changer for one of Britain's fastest-declining birds. Holyrood Votes Overwhelmingly to Save the Screaming Summer Visitors MSPs backed Scottish Green Mark Ruskell's amendment to the Housing (Scotland) Bill on Tuesday evening with cross-party support. The new rule requires swift bricks or similar nest spaces in all new dwellings "where reasonably practical and appropriate". Environment minister Gillian Martin told the chamber the move was essential because swifts have crashed by more than 60 per cent…

Queen Camilla made a vibrant appearance at the National Library of Scotland, kicking off the National Year of Reading 2026 with kids, authors, and even comic icons. This bold push aims to spark joy in books amid falling literacy rates. Dive in to see how it could change lives. What started as a simple library visit turned into a fun call to action for the whole UK. Royal Kickoff Sparks National Buzz Queen Camilla arrived in Edinburgh on January 19, 2026, to launch Scotland's part in the National Year of Reading. She met with local school kids, Scottish writers, and…

Glasgow's art scene is buzzing with controversy after a proposed mural on Elmbank Street drew sharp online criticism for its AI-generated design featuring odd elements like an American bald eagle. Businessman Derek Paterson insists the final version will ditch AI entirely, handing creative control to a local artist. But has the damage already been done to the city's vibrant street art culture? This backlash highlights growing tensions between technology and traditional artistry, leaving many wondering if Glasgow's walls should stay true to human hands. The Spark of Controversy The trouble started when Glasgow City Council greenlit a massive mural proposal…

Scotland is on high alert as heavy rain lashes the east, triggering an amber warning from the Met Office that promises flooding and widespread disruption. With up to 150mm of rain expected in some spots, police are urging drivers to stay off the roads. But what's the full impact, and how long will this last? Dive in to find out. This isn't just a drizzle; it's a deluge that could turn commutes into nightmares and leave homes at risk. Warnings Escalate Amid Soaring Rainfall Forecasts The Met Office kicked off the amber rain warning at midnight on Thursday, January 22,…

In a dramatic showdown shaking the cricket world, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a stark ultimatum to Bangladesh: travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup or face replacement by Scotland. This high-stakes decision follows Bangladesh's refusal to play matches in India due to security fears, leaving fans on edge about the tournament's lineup. As deadlines loom, the cricket community watches closely, wondering if this impasse could reshape the global event set to kick off soon. ICC's Tough Call on Bangladesh The ICC board met virtually on January 21, 2026, to address the growing crisis. Sources from…

Traveling to Scotland with friends sounds like a dream, but small oversights can turn it into a hassle. From chaotic planning to unexpected expenses, group trips often reveal pitfalls that could sour the fun. Drawing from recent traveler tales and expert advice, here's how to dodge common mistakes and make your Scottish getaway unforgettable. Whether you're eyeing Edinburgh's castles or the Highlands' rugged beauty, smart prep can keep the group vibe strong and the memories golden. Why Group Trips to Scotland Go Wrong – And How to Fix It Scotland's allure draws millions yearly, with over 3 million international visitors…