News

East Lothian, Scotland — East Lothian is set to host a wide range of events for Book Week Scotland, running from November 18 to November 24. The county’s celebration of literature will feature a packed schedule with author talks, workshops, and creative activities aimed at readers and writers of all ages. Key Highlights of East Lothian's Book Week Scotland Events A J Proudfoot Kicks Off the Week at Musselburgh Library The festivities begin on Monday, November 18, at Musselburgh Library with author A J Proudfoot, who will discuss his debut novel Rise of the First Wessex King. The novel, which draws from…

Scotland, UK — Thousands of new jobs could come to Scotland if favorable investment conditions are secured for green energy projects, according to Will Gardiner, the CEO of energy giant Drax Group. Gardiner’s remarks came amid Drax’s announcement of strong annual earnings projections, which are now expected to reach the upper end of their forecasted range of £993 million to £1.04 billion. The Drax Group, known for its prominent hydroelectric power station at Cruachan — often called the "Hollow Mountain" due to its unique location inside a mountain by Loch Awe — is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy…

LONDON, UK — Great Britain’s energy regulator, Ofgem, has approved two new electricity interconnectors between Britain and Ireland, bolstering energy links and security across the islands. These projects, one connecting Scotland to Northern Ireland and another linking Wales to the Republic of Ireland, are set to enhance grid resilience and enable cross-border energy transfers, supporting the United Kingdom’s drive toward energy independence and stability. This approval signals a significant development in Britain and Ireland’s energy cooperation, although it comes with a slight cost increase for GB consumers. Ofgem Approval and Consumer Impact After initially rejecting the projects due to concerns about…

EDINBURGH, Scotland — Scotland observed a solemn Armistice Day on November 11, with communities across the nation holding ceremonies to remember those who have died in conflicts worldwide. As the clock struck 11:00 a.m., Scots marked the traditional two-minute silence to honour those lost, continuing a tradition that began with the signing of the armistice in 1918. This year’s commemoration featured touching displays of remembrance, heartfelt ceremonies, and tributes across the country, from Edinburgh’s iconic Scott Monument to Shetland’s Anderson High School. Remembrance at Iconic Scottish Landmarks In Edinburgh, a poignant scene unfolded as veterans gathered in front of the Scott…

Edinburgh, Scotland — In a bold move that has reignited debate over dual mandates, SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has announced his intention to stand for a seat in the Scottish Parliament in 2026. Currently the MP for Aberdeen South, Flynn has proposed that he would hold onto his Westminster seat until the next general election, slated for 2029, if elected to Holyrood. However, he has committed to drawing only one salary. A Surprising Announcement Sparks Party Tensions Flynn’s announcement has been met with mixed reactions within the SNP. Some party members have raised concerns, with one senior SNP member describing…

Ever dreamt of surfing in an old quarry? Now, thanks to a £60 million project, it’s possible. Scotland’s first inland surf resort, Lost Shore, has officially opened at a former brownstone quarry in Newbridge, Edinburgh. With a wave pool covering three times the area of a football pitch, Lost Shore takes the title of Europe’s largest inland surf destination. A £60 Million Vision in Action This massive surf park, an ambitious brainchild of Lost Shore founder Andy Hadden, transforms an unused quarry into a state-of-the-art surf destination. The resort boasts a sophisticated wave pool that simulates natural ocean waves, offering…

As climate change brings warmer, drier seasons, Scotland’s rural areas are seeing a sharp rise in wildfire risks. Now, Scottish firefighters are turning to unexpected tools like leaf blowers, jet washers, and all-terrain vehicles in the battle against moorland and forest blazes. With wildfires posing one of the biggest threats to rural communities, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has invested in cutting-edge equipment to improve response capabilities across remote regions. Unconventional Tools in the Fight Against Fire In the past, traditional firefighting relied heavily on hoses, water tankers, and shovels. But with the risk of wildfires surging, innovative…

Scottish Rugby mourns the loss of Derrick Grant, a former national coach and flanker, who passed away at the age of 86. Known for his quiet leadership and sharp analytical mind, Grant leaves behind a lasting legacy in Scottish rugby. A Player and Leader with Deep Roots in Scottish Rugby Derrick Grant, born in Hawick, Scotland, was no stranger to the rugby field. A skilled back-row forward, he earned 14 caps for Scotland between 1965 and 1968. Grant's career began on the muddy pitches of the Borders, where his skills and work ethic made him a standout. He was known…

The University of Edinburgh has issued a warning to students from privileged backgrounds to avoid being “snobs” toward their peers from Scottish and working-class backgrounds. This follows growing concerns raised by students about class-related discrimination on campus, highlighting the challenges faced by those from less well-off backgrounds in an environment dominated by students from private schools and wealthier families. Class-Related Prejudice on Campus The issue of class prejudice at Edinburgh University came to light after the newly-formed Scottish Social Mobility Society filed complaints, revealing that students from less affluent backgrounds were being subject to mockery and shaming. The university acknowledged…

United Trust Bank (UTB) has announced plans to extend its asset finance operations into Scotland, appointing a dedicated business development manager to strengthen its local presence. The move signals a strategic push to tap into the region's growing demand for asset finance, particularly in sectors like agriculture, construction, and logistics. Expanding into an Underserved Market While UTB has maintained strong relationships with a select group of brokers in the Scottish Borders and the North of England, the bank believes there is considerable growth potential across Scotland, which remains an underserved market for asset finance. Nathan Mollett, Head of Asset Finance…