Police Scotland has released a CCTV image of a man who they believe may be able to assist them with their enquires into a serious assault on Lower Granton Road, Edinburgh.
The incident happened around 4.30pm on Saturday, 16 May, 2026. The man is described as white, 6ft in height, of heavy build, aged 40-50 years-old and bald.
Detective Sergeant Keith Morrison said: “We would ask the man in the image, or anyone who recognises him, to contact us as soon as possible.”
Anyone who has information that may assist with this investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 2173 of Saturday, 16 May, 2026. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Leading charity Poppyscotland is calling for volunteers to help man collection stations during Armed Forces Week in Edinburgh later this month.
Volunteers are being sought at both Waverley and Haymarket train stations in the city centre on Saturday, 27th June and Sunday 28th June, as well as at the Armed Forces Day parade at St Andrew Square on Saturday, 27th June.
Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, beginning on Monday 22nd June, when the public show their appreciation for the Armed Forces community.
Poppyscotland requires volunteer collectors during Armed Forces Week to allow the charity to continue the valuable work they do in helping countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces.
There are roles that suit a range of interests and experiences, and no matter how much time you can spare, you will make a difference.
Volunteers will be ably looked after, supported and trained by dedicated Poppyscotland staff. But, most importantly, the chance to make a real difference is there for the taking.
Sean Walsh has been volunteering with Poppyscotland for six years. The 20 year old said: “I volunteer at various events throughout the year, including at Armed Forces Day. Sometimes I can manage full days and other times I sign up for a couple of hours at a time due to my busy shift patterns at work.
“I know that even a few hours can make a real difference.
“I really enjoy my volunteering with Poppyscotland, you definitely feel part of something bigger!
“It’s a very straightforward process too – I sign up online, where I get all the information I need.”
Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has called on the Israeli government to let aid flow freely into Gaza after travelling to Jordan this week with an International Development Committee delegation to meet senior representatives of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and discuss the urgent need to expand humanitarian access into Gaza.
During the visit, Gilbert received briefings on the humanitarian situation and the barriers to aid delivery. UNRWA officials warned that restrictions on aid deliveries are contributing to severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies and shelter.
The delegation visited the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO), which operates a warehouse storing humanitarian aid from a range of organisations, including the UK Government and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP). There, Gilbert saw large quantities of food, baby formula and medical supplies, including prosthetics, ready for delivery to Gaza, but was told that much of the aid remains unable to reach those in need.
The delegation visit came on the same week that the UK Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon. Yvette Cooper MP, told the House of Commons that less than half of the aid promised in the 20-Point Peace Place is entering Gaza.
In the House of Commons, she said: “There are families without shelter and a public health crisis, with rodent infestations and communicable disease, and we are currently at barely half the level of the 4,200 trucks a week promised in the 20-point plan.”
Tracy Gilbert MP said:“Gaza is facing catastrophic conditions, and the international community has a responsibility to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most. Sadly, after briefings on the ground in Jordan this week it only served to reinforce my concerns about the lack of access and progress made since the peace plan had been agreed.
“The aid is there; however, it is not being made available. I have seen hundreds of boxes of baby formula and medication sitting in warehouses while people, just a few miles away, are in desperate need. No prosthetics have entered Gaza in the past year, despite thousands of people in need, with supplies ready to go.
“Among the supplies stored in the warehouses was aid funded directly by the UK Government, as well as assistance provided by UK charities through the generous donations of people across Edinburgh and the wider UK.”
Although a ceasefire agreement came into effect in October 2025, humanitarian organisations continue to warn that severe restrictions on aid and medical supplies mean many Palestinians in Gaza remain unable to access the support they urgently need.
Ms Gilbert added: “Eight months on from the Gaza Peace Plan there has been little improvement for people struggling to survive in Gaza. I am calling on the Israeli government to end the delays and allow the vital aid sitting on its borders to flow freely into Gaza.”
The Foreign Secretary’s Statement to the House of Commons on Tuesday 9th June can be found here:
Funding boost for charity fundraiser’s World Cup campaign
A Scotland fan who is walking across the US to raise funds for charity ahead of the World Cup has been backed by First Minister John Swinney with support from the Scottish Government.
Craig Ferguson’s ‘Tartan Trek’ is taking him over 3,200 miles across the United States to raise money for Scottish Action on Mental Health (SAMH). He hopes to raise £1 million in time for the Scotland men’s team’s opening match against Haiti on Saturday.
The First Minister will meet Craig in Boston as he joins his fellow Scotland fans upon completing his challenge. In recognition of his efforts, the First Minister has pledged £400,000 from the government to help him reach his £1 million target.
The First Minister said: “I met Craig before he headed out to Los Angeles to begin his mammoth trek across the United States and I was struck by his tenacity, ingenuity and genuine passion – both as a Scotland fan and a campaigner for mental health.
“I have been hugely impressed by Craig’s inspirational campaign to raise funds for SAMH, one of Scotland’s leading mental health charities. The work such charities do across the country is both life-changing and live-saving, and this funding will help SAMH to continue that important work – including to deliver their new drop-in mental health centres, which my government is keen to support.
“The Tartan Army are such a wonderful advert for Scotland, and I am proud that we have people like Craig representing our country in America as our men’s national team take to the stage for their first World Cup finals in almost thirty years.”
Chief Executive of Scottish Action on Mental Health (SAMH) Billy Watson said: “Craig’s efforts to raise awareness of mental health problems and money for SAMH have been absolutely extraordinary.
“He is a football fan, a member of the Tartan Army, who decided he could help and has quite literally come down the road in the most spectacular fashion.
“We’re hugely grateful to Craig, and to the First Minister and the Scottish Government for their support for Craig and SAMH, and we look forward to working with them to roll out The Nook across Scotland.”
Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch is calling on members of the community to become volunteers and help support its mission of providing free canal cruising for people with additional needs including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, older adults, or experiencing social isolation.
For decades, the charity has brought enjoyment, companionship, and unforgettable experiences to thousands of passengers from across central Scotland and as far north as Dundee to the Borders. To continue delivering these valuable services, the Trust is seeking enthusiastic new volunteers to join its dedicated Ratho team.
Volunteering opportunities are available both on board and ashore. Whether assisting passengers during cruises, helping with boat operations, supporting fundraising activities, or providing administrative assistance, every volunteer plays an important role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for guests.
No previous boating experience is required, as full training and ongoing support are provided. The charity welcomes people from all backgrounds who are willing to give a little of their time to make a difference in the lives of others.
Volunteering with Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch offers many personal benefits. Volunteers can develop new skills, gain valuable experience, meet new people, and become part of a friendly and supportive team. Many volunteers also find the role highly rewarding, knowing that their contribution helps provide opportunities and experiences that many passengers would otherwise be unable to enjoy.
As demand for cruises continues to grow, the need for additional volunteers has never been greater. By joining Seagull Trust Cruises, volunteers can help ensure that vulnerable and isolated individuals continue to enjoy access to safe, inclusive, and memorable days on Scotland’s waterways.
Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities is encouraged to get in touch with Seagull Trust Cruises. A few hours of your time could make a lasting difference to someone else’s life while providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for you.
Maternal and child health expert Professor Christine McCourt is to lead a review into improving maternity services across Scotland.
Health Secretary Angela Constance announced the appointment in an update to Parliament.
Professor McCourt will examine how maternity services can better meet women’s needs across the country, including how care is provided in rural and island areas. This will include specific review of services in Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire.
The review will also address the higher maternal mortality rates of Black and Asian women, informed directly by the voices of Black and Asian women.
Professor McCourt will review how NHS boards engage meaningfully with their communities on decisions they make about maternity services.
The full scope and terms of reference will be published by the Chair and is expected to focus on the views and experiences of women, their families and staff.
Ms Constance said: “Every woman in Scotland deserves safe, compassionate and high-quality maternity care, regardless of where she lives.
“I am pleased Professor McCourt will lead our review. She will consult with clinical experts and engage with families and patient groups, including those in rural and island areas such as Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire.
“This independent review fulfils a commitment we made for our first 100 days in government. It will build on improvements already being made in the NHS, including the maternity standards launched earlier this year. It will be carried out at pace and completed within nine months.
“I am clear this review will deliver real and tangible change for women and their families.”
Professor McCourt said: “Positive maternity experiences and outcomes are vital for our health and wellbeing.
“I look forward to listening and learning from families and communities across Scotland, as well as from those who provide dedicated care in our NHS.
“This will help draw out lessons for maternity and neonatal services and contribute to ensuring the best possible care for all.”
A group of sheltered housing tenants known as the ‘Leith Legends’ (aged 60-95) have reached the end of their 3,070-mile walking challenge. They walked their final mile starting at the top of the Royal Mile and ending at the Scottish Parliament Building yesterday (Thursday 11 June).
The group has been attempting to walk the distance from Edinburgh to Boston ahead of Scotland’s first match at the men’s FIFA World Cup this weekend. Their journey began in January with a walk around the pitch at Easter Road Stadium, adorned with Scotland flags and team T-shirts.
The ‘March to the Match’ will be the longest journey attempted by tenants who have previously walked the distance from John o’Groat’s to Land’s End (1,280 miles), from Alloway to Dumfries in the footsteps of Robert Burns (60 miles), and the North Coast 500 (500 miles).
Maureen Combe who leads the Sheltered Housing Team at Harbour Homes said:“The Leith Legends have come a long way since their first walk at Easter Road Stadium.
2They have been steadfast in their commitment to reaching their goal, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved. To have walked their final mile on the first day of the World Cup, when thousands of Scotland fans set off on their adventures, just adds to the excitement of it all.”
Leith Legend Anne McBrierty said: “The challenge has meant that I’ve been walking a lot more than I usually do and I’m hoping to keep it up after it’s over.
“I’ve enjoyed it all and my favourite group walk was around the grounds of Lauriston Castle.”
Leith Legend Betty Lewis said:“I’ve enjoyed all the different walks we’ve been on too, the Botanics, Portobello and Easter Road Stadium.
“For me Lauriston Castle was a favourite. I too hope to keep up with the walking now that the challenge is finished.”
The Leith Legends have been counting their steps walked, both as a group at locations around Edinburgh, and as individuals looking to keep fit.
They have successfully walked a combined distance of just over 3,070 miles in 140 days, at a pace of around 22 miles per day.
More than 150 pupils from schools across Edinburgh came together yesterday (Thursday 11 June) for a violence prevention event, where they shared their views on safety, weapon carrying and what safer communities should look like.
Hosted by Fearless, the youth service of the charity Crimestoppers, in partnership with Police Scotland, the event took place at the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh.
It gave young people the chance to speak openly about the pressures they face, hear from expert partners, and help design messages and strategies they believe will resonate with their peers.
The event built on a previous Fearless and Police Scotland schools event on firework safety held in September 2025.
Feedback from the young people who took part helped shape the focus of this year’s programme, with pupils leading discussions on how to prevent violence and reduce weapon carrying.
Pupils will now take what they learned back into their schools and communities, helping to continue conversations about safety, choice and the impact of weapon carrying. Videos captured by young people during the day will also feature on Fearless Scotland’s social media channels, reaching hundreds of thousands of young people over the summer holidays.
Sessions on the day included:
* A session on the realities and impact of violence, followed by a creative workshop led by the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit and Police Scotland
* A social media workshop with Fearless, where young people created violence prevention messages and interviewed guests and peers
* Practical street first aid training with the Scottish Ambulance Service
* A session on the impact of antisocial behaviour with Lothian Buses
* Violence prevention input from Medics Against Violence, delivered in partnership with young people they work with
* Interactive sessions from Big Hearts Community Trust and Stellar Elevate exploring positive masculinity, online influence and knife crime
* A music workshop with Turn The Tables, giving young people the chance to create anti-violence music
Community Sport Hub and 6VT Edinburgh City Youth Café were also there to signpost young people to support, activities and positive opportunities they can get involved in over the summer.
Lisa Petrie, mum of John McNab, was also attended the event to speak to young people about John, the huge hole his death has left and the work she is doing in his memory.
Emily, a pupil from Craigroyston Community High School, attending the event said:“Today has been great, going around the different stations, learning more and also being listened to by all the organisations here.
“For me, hearing from John’s mum was really important. It wasn’t just someone talking to us who doesn’t understand – she’s actually been through the worst and has that real insight.
“It makes you realise that it doesn’t just affect the victim – it affects everyone around them too, people just like our own families.
“As young people, we all have a responsibility to work together and make good choices for our communities.
“You’ve got a choice – use your voice.”
Hannah, a fellow pupil added:“Often adults tell us about the consequences of crimes like this, but don’t always tell us what support is there. I think that’s been the best part of this event – seeing that there are organisations and adults who are actually here to help.
“For example, Fearless is a really important support for young people, giving them a way to report information about crime anonymously.
“You can see that the staff at Fearless don’t expect us to be perfect – they’re there to help, not judge, and to make sure we don’t end up in a bad situation. That really matters.”
Lyndsay McDade, Fearless Scotland Manager, said:“Violence prevention has to involve young people in a meaningful way. They understand what is happening in their schools, streets, group chats and communities better than anyone, and they often have the clearest ideas about what needs to change.
“Young people’s voices matter at every stage. If we want to prevent violence and respond to harm, we have to ask them what they think and genuinely listen to what they tell us. That is what today was all about.
“What matters now is that these conversations do not end when young people leave the room. The pupils who took part will go back to their schools and communities and help spread messages about safety and the impact of weapon carrying.
“We also want every young person to know that if they are worried about someone carrying a weapon or involved in violence, they can speak up to our charity 100% anonymously. No one will know who they are, but the information they share could help keep someone safe.
“We are incredibly grateful to Police Scotland and all of the partners who came together to make this event possible. Days like this show what can happen when young people are placed at the heart of prevention.”
Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Police Scotland Divisional Commander for Edinburgh, said:“Violence has a serious impact on individuals, families and communities, particularly our young people.
“Last year, Police Scotland launched Operation Stardrop to coordinate diversionary activity with partners, including Fearless, to address the root causes of violence and help safeguard children and young people from becoming involved in violent crime, either as victims or perpetrators.
“A key part of that work is creating opportunities like today’s event, where young people can share their views and help shape the way we respond.
“It is important to remember that most children and young people are not involved in violence, but we also know that carrying weapons can have devastating consequences. That is why meaningful partnership working and early engagement with young people are so important to keeping communities safe.”
City of Edinburgh, Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“There is no place for anti-social behaviour in Edinburgh, and that is why initiatives like the youth summit are so important.
“Following the success of last year’s event, I’m glad to see partners once again coming together with young people to have open and constructive conversations about community safety, the risks associated with weapon carrying, and what more can be done to create better neighbourhoods.
“The willingness of young people to engage with these important conversations is evident, and their voices are central to shaping solutions and helping us build a safer Edinburgh for everyone.”
Scotland’s voluntary sector celebrated at SCVO’s annual awards ceremony
An Edinburgh youth partnership has won a top award for its work supporting the local community.
The Time to Talk Partnership, run by The Junction, Granton Youth, Wester Hailes Youth Agency, Canongate Youth, and 6VT, won Partnership of the Year at the Scottish Charity Awards 2026.
The winners of the Scottish Charity Awards recognising Scotland’s voluntary sector were announced in a celebratory awards ceremony last night (Thursday 11 June) at the Radisson Blu, Glasgow.
Hosted by Sally Magnusson and run annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), the Scottish Charity Awards celebrates the best of the voluntary sector. This year’s shortlist included 35 individuals and organisations from charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups across the country.
The Time to Talk partnership has made a significant difference for young people in Edinburgh by bridging clinical and community services and making mental health support more accessible.
This innovative, collaboration brings together The Junction, Granton Youth, Wester Hailes Youth Agency, Canongate Youth and 6VT to deliver joined-up support – providing one-to-one provision in community settings and youth workers in NHS emergency departments at weekends.
Young people accessing services report improved wellbeing, greater confidence, and stronger family relationships. Crucially, the partnership has strengthened relationships across the voluntary and statutory sectors, creating a more integrated and coordinated support system across Edinburgh.
Cara Spence, Director at The Junction, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for this recognition. This award shows what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose. It’s a privilege to work alongside our ‘Time to Talk’ partners—sharing challenges, finding solutions, and building lasting connections.
“At a time when many young people face poor mental health, the third sector plays a vital role in prevention and support. ‘Time to Talk’ is making a real difference to young people and their families, and we’re committed to growing this impact.
“We also thank our funders, the City of Edinburgh Council and NHS Lothian, for their ongoing commitment to whole-family wellbeing and transformational change.”
Anna Fowlie, chief executive of SCVO, said: “What a fantastic event to recognise the accomplishments of organisations and individuals throughout Scotland’s voluntary sector.
“Our finalists and winners are outstanding examples of the incredible impact made possible through the dedication of those who work and volunteer within charities, community organisations and social enterprises.
“They continue to champion important causes, deliver essential support and help create stronger, more vibrant communities.
“Every community and every area of society benefits from the valuable work that SCVO has the privilege of witnessing every day. Thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Scottish Charity Awards, including our sponsors, the Radisson Blu for hosting the event, and of course Sally Magnusson, who was as wonderful as ever.
“Congratulations to all of the finalists and winners – I’m already excited to see what 2027 has in store!”
The winner of each of the nine categories was decided by a judging panel following a rigorous shortlisting process.
The winners of the Scottish Charity Awards 2023 are:
Campaign of the Year award: Victim Support Scotland
Volunteer of the Year award: Jim Cassidy – Men Matter Scotland
Climate Impact award: Crail Community Partnership
Employee of the Year award: Scott Montgomery – The Killie Community
Partnership of the Year award: The Junction, Granton Youth, Wester Hailes Youth Agency, Canongate Youth, and 6VT – Time to Talk Partnership
Trustee of the Year award: Susan Griffin – Glenurquhart Rural Community Association
Charity of the Year award (<£100k): Beyond Srebrenica
Charity of the Year award (£100K – £500K): Megan’s Space
Charity of the Year award (>£500k): Amma Birth Companions
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Congratulations to all of this year’s Scottish Charity Awards winners and finalists.
“The work being celebrated tonight demonstrates the extraordinary difference that charities make to communities right across Scotland every single day. Whether tackling violence against women, supporting mental health, or driving climate action, these organisations are addressing some of our toughest social challenges at their source.
“The Scottish Government is proud to stand alongside Scotland’s third sector. That is why we are committed to developing a Third Sector Partnership – a formal agreement co-designed with the sector to strengthen its voice and improve lives.
“Additionally, we want to continue to improve funding arrangements so that organisations like tonight’s winners can plan and deliver with confidence for the long term.”
I am writing in the hope that your newspaper can help raise awareness of the difficulties facing Fair Price Supermarket at Drylaw Shopping Centre, a business that has been at the heart of our community for decades.
For more than 50 years, Fair Price was run by Mohammad Shahid, a well-loved and highly respected member of the local community. Mohammad Shahid was far more than a shopkeeper. He was a friend to many, always ready with a warm welcome, a kind word, and a smile. Generations of local families knew him and valued the service, care, and sense of community he brought to Drylaw.
Sadly, My father passed away just over a year ago after a short illness while visiting family members in Pakistan. His death came as a great shock to those who knew him, and the loss is still being felt deeply throughout the area.
In fact, some customers are only now discovering the sad news. Many have spoken of how heartbreaking it is to walk into the shop and not see my father’s familiar smiling face behind the counter, greeting them as he had done for so many years. Some have even found it too emotional to return, such was the affection and respect they had for him.
Despite their grief, me and my family have worked tirelessly to keep the business running and preserve the legacy he built over half a century. They continue to serve the community with the same dedication and commitment that he showed every day of his working life.
Now, however, the business faces another challenge. The ongoing construction of zebra crossings within the shopping centre’s parking area has caused disruption and reduced accessibility for customers. Many local people feel these works are unnecessary and fear they could have a damaging impact on the businesses that rely on convenient access and passing trade.
At a time when Fair Price is still adjusting to the loss of its founder, this additional disruption could not have come at a worse time.
I would like to appeal directly to the local community. If Mohammad Shahid ever served you, helped you, or brightened your day with his smile and kindness, please consider supporting the business he devoted his life to building.
Every visit and every purchase helps. It would be a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to this community if local residents rallied around Fair Price and helped ensure that his legacy continues for future generations.
Fair Price has supported Drylaw for over 50 years. Now it is our turn to support Fair Price.
I hope your newspaper will help tell Mohammad’s story and encourage readers to stand behind this treasured local business during a difficult period.
