News

In a remarkable turn of events, the Scottish SPCA has reported an unprecedented rescue of 216 dogs over the past ten days. This surge marks a staggering 380% increase compared to the same period last year, highlighting a growing crisis in animal welfare across the region. The charity, which has been operating for 185 years, is facing its largest intake of dogs in history, prompting urgent calls for support. A Surge in Rescues: What Happened? The recent influx of dogs has been attributed to a series of complex rescues from various locations throughout Scotland. Many of these animals were found…

The upcoming Scotland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition is set to become the largest gathering of its kind when it returns to the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow this month. Running from October 23-24, the event will feature ten co-located stages, providing a dynamic platform for cross-industry collaboration and innovation. Ten Co-Located Events at the SEC This two-day event will showcase the core pillars of manufacturing and supply chain operations, as well as specialized tracks catering to the evolving needs of key sectors. Each co-located event will focus on a specific area, including 3D Printing, MedTech, Robotics, and more. Scotland Pharma & MedTech: Convergence of pharmaceuticals and medical technology. Scotland Renewable Energy: Innovations in renewable energy sources. Scotland 3D Printing: The world of additive manufacturing. Scotland Aerospace, Security & Marine: Advancements in aerospace and marine technologies. These detailed discussions will bring together delegates for a deep dive into local developments and industry trends. A Platform for Innovation In partnership with Scottish Engineering, the event promises to shine a spotlight on manufacturing and supply chain operations. The extensive list of co-located events includes Scotland Automation & Robotics, Scotland Food & Beverage Manufacturing, and Scotland High Tech Manufacturing & Precision Engineering. This platform will drive efficiency and innovation, featuring a tailored agenda with expert speakers and exhibitors. Anton Radchenko, head of AirAdvisor, explains, “Our message is: be prepared for disruption and understand your rights as a passenger.” With such a diverse range of sectors, the event underscores the importance of collaboration across industries to foster innovation, sustainability, and growth. Networking Opportunities Attendees will benefit from facilitated networking opportunities, offering a cohesive space for both personal and professional socialization and development. The Scotland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition promises to be a game-changer for individuals navigating today's manufacturing landscape. Colin Murphy, Managing Director of Premier Publishing & Event, expressed his excitement: “We are delighted to be in Glasgow for the 3rd Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition. The event will be held over two days for the first time due to the overwhelming support from the manufacturing community.” Unmatched Line-Up The event will feature a variety of focused tracks, including Scotland IoT & Industry 4.0, Scotland Lean, Productivity & Continuous Improvement, and Scotland Supply Chain & Logistics. The expert speaker and exhibitor line-up promises to be the most exciting since the event launched three years ago. Registration for the 2024 Scotland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on October 23 and 24 at SEC, Glasgow is free. Tickets are available from manufacturingexposcotland.com/register.

Travellers flying from Glasgow Airport with easyJet have been warned of upcoming strike action planned for Sunday, October 27, 2024. Pilots employed by the budget airline are set to walk out for four hours, causing potential disruptions to flight. Strike Details The strike, organized by UIL Trasporti, which represents some of easyJet's pilots based in Italy, is scheduled to take place between 1 pm and 5 pm local time. This action will affect flights to popular destinations such as Milan, Naples, and Venice. Potential Disruption While the strike is focused on pilots in Italy, easyJet has warned that other services from Glasgow Airport may also experience delays and cancellations due to stretched resources. Travellers are advised to prepare for possible disruptions and keep an eye on easyJet's website for updates. Advice for Travellers Anton Radchenko, head of AirAdvisor, advises passengers to be prepared for delays and to understand their rights as traveler. If flights are delayed by over three hours or cancelled, passengers may be entitled to compensation between £350 and £520. Airlines are also required to provide refreshments and alternative transportation if necessary. Previous Strikes This isn't the first time easyJet has faced strike action. In August 2024, over 200 flights to and from Portugal were cancelled due to a three-day strike by cabin crew. The upcoming strike is expected to have a similar, though potentially less severe, impact. Travellers are encouraged to stay informed and plan accordingly to minimize the impact of the strike on their travel plans. easyJet is working to minimize disruption and urges passengers to check their website for the latest updates.

Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Alba Party, has died at the age of 69. He collapsed while giving a speech in North Macedonia and passed away suddenly. Salmond's political career spanned decades, during which he made significant contributions to Scottish and UK politics. A Towering Political Figure Alex Salmond's impact on Scottish politics cannot be overstated. He served as the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014 and led the Scottish National Party (SNP) during two separate terms, from 1990 to 2000 and again from 2004 to 2014. His leadership saw the SNP rise from the fringes of Scottish politics to becoming the governing party. Salmond was instrumental in modernizing the SNP and leading Scotland to the brink of independence in the 2014 referendum. His tenure as First Minister was marked by significant political achievements and a relentless pursuit of Scottish independence. Salmond's contributions to the political landscape were acknowledged by leaders across the political spectrum, who paid tribute to his dedication and service. Tributes from Political Leaders Following Salmond's death, tributes poured in from political leaders and colleagues. First Minister of Scotland John Swinney highlighted Salmond's enormous contribution to political life, not just in Scotland but across the UK and beyond. He praised Salmond's tireless work and fearless fight for Scottish independence. Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, expressed shock at Salmond's passing and offered sincere condolences to his family and friends. He acknowledged Salmond's central role in Scottish politics for over three decades and his service as both MP and MSP. Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, despite their past differences, recognized Salmond's significant influence on her life and their successful partnership in UK politics. She credited him with modernizing the SNP and leading them into government for the first time. A Controversial Yet Influential Leader Salmond's career was not without controversy. In 2018, he resigned from the SNP amid sexual misconduct allegations. The following year, he was cleared of sexually assaulting nine women after a criminal trial. Despite these controversies, Salmond continued to be a prominent figure in Scottish politics. In 2021, he founded the Alba Party, a new pro-independence party, and served as its leader until his death. His efforts to expose alleged wrongdoing within the SNP government continued until his final days. Salmond's legacy is a complex one, marked by both his political achievements and the controversies that surrounded him. A Lasting Legacy Born in Linlithgow, West Lothian, on December 31, 1954, Alex Salmond's journey in politics began early. He was elected to the House of Commons in 1987 and served as the Member of Parliament for Banff and Buchan until 2010. His leadership of the SNP and later the Alba Party left an indelible mark on Scottish politics. Salmond's death has left a void in the political landscape, but his contributions and legacy will continue to be remembered and debated for years to come.

A tragic loss has struck the music community as Jack Revill, widely known as Jackmaster, passed away at the age of 38. The Glasgow DJ and producer died following complications from an accidental head injury in Ibiza, where he had been performing. His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement, expressing their profound sorrow. Jackmaster's Impact on the Music Scene Jack Revill, a pivotal figure in Glasgow's music scene for the past two decades, left an indelible mark on the world of electronic music. From his early days at the Rubadub record shop to co-founding the Numbers label and club night, Jackmaster's influence was immense. His ability to blend genres and deliver electrifying DJ sets garnered respect and admiration globally. He was known for discovering and nurturing countless innovative artists through his work at Numbers and Rubadub Records. Jackmaster's passion for music and relentless drive to push creative boundaries made him a beloved figure in both the public eye and behind the scenes. Family's Heartfelt Statement The Revill family—Kate, Sean, and Johnny—expressed their heartbreak in a statement, highlighting Jack's untimely death on the morning of October 12th. While they are deeply touched by the overwhelming support from friends, colleagues, and fans, they kindly request privacy during this difficult time. Jack's family mentioned, “Jack’s legacy will continue to inspire, and his impact on the world of dance music will remain indelible.” Their words resonate with the community he touched through his music and personal connections. Tributes Pouring In Tributes from across the globe have been pouring in, highlighting Jackmaster's contributions to the electronic music scene. Fellow artists, fans, and colleagues have shared memories and condolences, celebrating his life and legacy. Peers: Colleagues in the industry remember Jack for his talent and dedication. Fans: Admirers from all over the world are expressing their sorrow and celebrating his music. The community's outpouring of love and support showcases the significant impact Jackmaster had on the music world. Jackmaster's Legacy Born in Glasgow in 1986, Jackmaster's journey in music began at a young age. Starting at Rubadub record shop at 14 and becoming a regular at techno party Monox by 17, his trajectory was set early on. Jackmaster's final show took place last month at Hï Ibiza, marking the end of an illustrious career. Despite past controversies, his contributions to music remained significant and influential.

Scotland’s economy has shown remarkable resilience, with its GDP growth outpacing the rest of the UK. In July 2024, Scotland’s GDP grew by 0.3%, a stark contrast to the UK’s stagnant economic performance during the same period. This growth is largely attributed to increased consumer spending, driven by the excitement surrounding major sporting events like the Euros and the Olympics. Despite the broader economic challenges, Scotland’s economy continues to demonstrate strength and adaptability. Economic Resilience Amidst Challenges Scotland’s economic performance in recent months has been noteworthy. The GDP growth of 0.3% in July 2024 follows a revised 0% change in…

Petrol prices in the UK have plummeted to their lowest level in three years, providing much-needed relief to motorists. The average price for a litre of unleaded petrol has dropped to approximately £1.35, driven by a combination of lower global oil prices and a stronger pound. This significant decrease comes as a welcome change for consumers who have faced high fuel costs in recent years, particularly following the record highs seen in 2022. Factors Behind the Price Drop The recent decline in petrol prices can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, global oil prices have fallen due to decreased…

In an inspiring tale of entrepreneurship, Jolene Roberts, a mum from Edinburgh, has turned her passion for eco-friendly products into a thriving soap empire. After quitting her high-stress corporate job, Roberts began making soap in her spare bedroom during the pandemic. Her business, Oir, has since grown exponentially, moving from her home to a commercial space in Dalmeny. Roberts’ journey from a marketing professional to a successful business owner highlights the power of determination and creativity in achieving one’s dreams. From Corporate Life to Soap Making Jolene Roberts’ transition from the corporate world to soap making was driven by a…