This summer, avoid the mercury-busting heatwave overseas and explore coasts that rival the world’s best right here in the UK and Ireland with a Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) small group tour.
Stunning South West Seaside
Escape to the beautiful counties of Dorset, Devon and Cornwall to enjoy tales of Arthurian legend and iconic natural wonders. There are few coastal locations more famous than Durdle Door in Lulworth, Dorset. The limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast is one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks and the coastline it calls home was designated England’s first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Venture further west and discover Cornwall’s coast, from the clifftop castle of Tintagel where King Arthur is believed to have been born to the cobbled streets, cottages and sandy beaches of the idyllic fishing town of St Ives. Its neighbour, Devon, doesn’t disappoint either, and this tour isn’t complete without a visit to the picturesque coastal resort of Lynton for its incredible natural beauty and rich history. Join Rabbie’s four-day Cornwall, Devon & Stonehenge tour, departing from Bristol, from just £295 per person.
West Coast Exploring
Discover the soaring mountains, spectacular wildlife, and mystical history of Ireland’s West Coast. Take in the rugged beauty of one of the longest-defined coastal routes in the world, The Wild Atlantic Way. The 2,500km-long coastal road boasts historical spots, natural wonders and many of Ireland’s top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher. Walk cliff-top trails boasting gorgeous views over the rugged Atlantic waves and watch rare seabirds swooping through the air.
At the picturesque, coastal market town of Clifden in County Galway, nestled between the Twelve Bens mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, take in the National Park, you’ll also enjoy the majesty of the Sky Road. Join Rabbie’s three-day West Coast Explorer tour, departing from Dublin, from just €389 per person.
Rabbie’s UK and Ireland tours depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, London, Manchester, Bristol, Belfast and Dublin. For more information about Rabbie’s and to book a private or a scheduled tour, visit www.rabbies.com.
A £190 (43%) annual increase means drivers in Scotland are now paying £624, on average, for their car insurance
Prices have increased across the country, but drivers in Central Scotland are likely to be paying some of the most expensive prices. The average cost in this region is now £691, following an annual increase of £214 (45%).
Despite the Scottish Highlands and Islands being one of the cheapest regions, drivers in Shetland are seeing their prices increase by almost half. That’s as a 49% (£212) annual increase means prices are now £641, on average.
But drivers in Glasgow could be facing the most expensive prices overall. A £234 (45%) annual increase means the average price of car insurance is now £757.
The rapid growth in prices is reflected across other parts of the UK too. According to the latest data, record-breaking figures mean car insurance is one of the highest household bills.
But drivers are still seeing savings – £63, on average. Louise Thomas, motor expert at Confused.com car insurance shares advice around how driver’s can try to keep costs down at renewal.
The price of car insurance in Scotland has reached record-breaking levels, according to new data.
Drivers are now paying around £624 for their car insurance, an increase of £190 (43%) compared to this time last year. That’s according to the latest (Q2 2023) car insurance price index, powered by WTW.
Based on more than 6 million quotes over the quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index for comprehensive policies. According to the data, prices over the last 3 months have also soared too. That’s as the average price has increased by £103 (20%) alone since April this year.
Increases across all regions of Scotland mean that prices are the highest on record since the Confused.com price index began in 2006. Central Scotland is the most expensive, with prices now £691, on average. That’s an increase of £214 (45%) compared to this time 12 months ago.
In the East and North East of Scotland, prices are around £570, following a £171 (43%) rise, on average. Meanwhile, in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, the cost of car insurance is £560, on average.
This follows an annual increase of £166 (42%). And the least expensive region of Scotland is the Scottish Borders. Prices grew by £146 (40%), on average, but drivers were likely to still pay less than others overall. That’s as the average price of car insurance was £512.
Despite being one of the cheapest regions, some drivers in the Highlands and Islands may have had a shock when renewing their car insurance. In Shetland, data shows how prices have increased by almost half.
A 49% increase means that drivers could be paying £212 more, on average, compared to this time last year. That puts the average price at £641. And drivers in Paisley are seeing similar changes. Car insurance prices have increased by £184 (42%) in 12 months, meaning the average price is now £625.
For drivers in Glasgow, they could expect to be paying the highest prices overall. The latest figures show that a 45% (£234) annual increase now puts average prices at £757. The cheapest prices seem to be for drivers in Kirkwall. Despite a 33% (£115) annual increase, prices are around £461. That’s almost half in comparison to the most expensive.
Here’s a full look at the current prices across each region:
*prices are the highest on record
Central Scotland:
Area
Average price
Annual increase (£)
Annual increase (%)
Edinburgh
£626*
£194
45%
Glasgow
£757*
£234
45%
Kilmarnock
£613*
£195
47%
Motherwell
£699*
£209
43%
Borders:
Area
Average price
Annual increase (£)
Annual increase (%)
Dumfries
£510*
£139
38%
Galashiels
£514
£154
43%
Highlands and Islands:
Area
Average price
Annual increase (£)
Annual increase (%)
Falkirk
£573*
£172
43%
Hebrides
£464
£111
31%
Inverness
£519*
£155
43%
Kirkwall
£461*
£115
33%
Paisley
£625*
£184
42%
Perth
£524*
£165
46%
Shetland
£641*
£212
49%
East and North East:
Area
Average price
Annual increase (£)
Annual increase (%)
Aberdeen
£571*
£174
44%
Dundee
£587*
£177
43%
Kirkcaldy
£557*
£164
42%
And other drivers across the UK are seeing similar pricing trends when it comes to their car insurance. According to the data, the UK average now stands at £776. This is an annual increase of £222 (40%) and the highest price ever recorded on the Confused.com price index.
These steep increases mean that drivers across the UK are potentially paying more than ever before. In fact, research by Confused.com showed that the cost of car insurance is almost as high as household electricity and council tax costs. And as a result, makes it the third highest household bill.
That’s according to a survey of 2,000 UK drivers(1), which found that the average council tax bill is now £984 per year, and £964 for energy. And that’s in addition to other expensive essentials, such as food and home entertainment.
That’s as research shows the average UK driver is spending:
£1,022 on food shopping
£690 on home entertainment services such as broadband and TV subscriptions.
Are all drivers seeing price increases?
Although some UK drivers saw some savings, most are feeling the effects of these price hikes. While this may look bleak, especially during a financially turbulent time, research also shows that there are savings to be made.
According to the additional research, only 9% of UK drivers had a cheaper renewal price last quarter (April – June). This proves that myths surrounding the regulations implemented by the Financial Conduct Authority in January 2021 aren’t true.
Following the changes, many drivers believed they wouldn‘t get a more expensive renewal price. But as the research proves, this isn’t the case. In fact, almost 2 in 3 (59%) saw their price increase, by £52, on average. This is despite almost a third (31%) having no driving convictions, and a further third (32%) having at least 1 year’s no-claims bonus on their policy.
However, many people trusted that they could find a better price, with almost half (46%) going on to switch providers. Of these, almost 2 in 3 (64%) used a price comparison site and saved £63 on their original price, on average.
It’s a similar picture for those who saw a cheaper price, which averaged at just £34 less than the previous year. Two in 5 (40%) went on to buy with another provider, with 1 in 2 (50%) using a price comparison site and also saved £63, on average.
It seems buying a new car insurance policy right now may sound unaffordable. But figures prove that drivers can still save money compared to the renewal price their current insurer is offering.
Why are prices increasing?
It’s clear from the data that prices are increasing for all drivers, whether they choose to renew or buy a new policy. But why are prices rising so significantly?
One of the biggest expenses for insurers is claims. During the pandemic, fewer cars were on the road. As a result, the industry saw a reasonable drop in prices to reflect the reduction in claims being made. But now, research suggests normal driving habits have resumed. This could mean insurers are having to pay out for more claims than they were 2 years ago.
But the important fact here is that the cost of these claims has increased significantly for insurers. Like with many other businesses, this is arguably down to the shift in inflation rates reported over the past 18 months.
And this, as a result, has driven up the cost of repairs and maintenance, which in the event of a claim, is covered by the insurer. This is especially true for newer cars, and many used cars that are in high demand. In fact, the Association for British Insurers (ABI) reported a 33% uplift in the cost of vehicle repairs last quarter(2).
We’re also seeing that used cars are holding their value more in the current climate. This means that payouts for write-offs or total losses are costing insurers more to cover. Similarly, new cars as well as electric vehicles are much higher in value than before due to more expensive features and upgrades coming as standard. This means paying out to replace a new car is costing insurers more.
How can drivers save money?
With the cost of living crisis continuing to hit Brits in the pocket, it’s clear car insurance is quickly becoming another hefty expense for drivers. It’s no surprise, then, that 2 in 5 (40%) motorists are calling on insurers to do more to make the cost of car insurance more affordable.
In fact, 1 in 4 (25%) claim they’re having to drive less due to the rising costs. And 1 in 5 (20%) are finding the overall cost of driving too difficult to manage. With the average car insurance price now £776, the overall cost of motoring has reached almost £2,000. That’s as research shows the average UK driver is spending an additional £720 on fuel per year, and £455 on other car maintenance costs.
However, according to Confused.com’s fuel price index, the average price of petrol dropped to 143.3p in June, from 174.5p in August last year. Similarly, the price of diesel is just 145.5p compared to an eye-watering 187.1p, which drivers were paying last November. This goes to show that there are still some areas of motoring where drivers are saving money.
But just because car insurance prices are increasing, doesn’t mean that motorists have to pay more than they need to for their policies.
Experts at Confused.com have identified some key ways for drivers to take a few pounds off their insurance price, without making any significant changes to the way they drive:
Be accurate with your mileage – Generally, the more miles you drive, the more likely you are to have an accident and make a claim. This means the higher your mileage, the more you pay for your car insurance. So, driving fewer miles can be a great way to save money on your car insurance policy. But don’t assume that a low mileage always means low prices. If you barely drive at all, your insurance company could see that as a risk as well.
Increase your voluntary excess – Increasing your voluntary excess can help you get cheaper car insurance, but you need to make sure you can afford to pay it, if you need to claim.
Pay for your car insurance annually – If you can afford it, paying for your insurance in one go rather than monthly is one way to get cheaper car insurance. That’s because insurance companies always charge interest for spreading the cost of your cover over the year.
Enhance your car security – The harder it is to steal your car, the less of a risk it is. This usually means cheaper car insurance. There are several ways to improve your car security including:
Installing a Thatcham-approved car alarm or immobiliser, if it doesn’t already have one
Adding secondary levels of security like a steering lock.
Parking overnight in a secure, well-lit car park.
For more advice on how to reduce costs, visit Confused.com’s guide on how to get cheaper car insurance.
Louise Thomas, motor expert at Confused.com car insurance comments, “Car insurance has quickly become one of the biggest expenses for drivers. If prices continue at this rate then there’s no doubt drivers could be priced off the road, as they battle with other rising costs too.
“But what we do know is that many drivers were able to save some money when it came to renewal. And shopping around was the key to this. Even if prices were cheaper for them, the price they saw online was still significantly cheaper.
“Although this isn’t all drivers can do to save money. We always advise drivers to take a look at the details of their policy and make sure they’re accurate before committing to a price. Updating your mileage, or considering additional security could easily bring your price down.
“In the current climate we want to help drivers do all they can to make their insurance more affordable. But we know the key to this will be shopping around and seeing what the best price out there is.
“It’s a competitive industry and we’re confident that switching will result in savings. This is why we offer a guarantee to beat your renewal, or pay you the difference, plus £20(4). In this scenario, you don’t pay more, and you gain more cash!”
What can I do to stop thieves entering and stealing from my garden?
If you have a garden, it’s the first thing an intruder will have to deal with if they want to break into your house. There are also items in your garden which a thief may wish to steal.
Take some simple steps to secure your garden, shed and garage.
Keep hedges, walls and fences low at the front of your house. Keep this to a maximum of 1.2 metres high. This will make it harder for thieves to go unseen by neighbours or people passing by.
Install locked gates so it’s hard to get into the back or sides. Rear fences and walls should be a minimum 1.8 to 2 metres in height. Trellis topping or an intruder deterrent strip can make climbing difficult.
Grow aggressive shrubbery to make it hard for intruders to climb through. Ideal plants include berberis, blue spruce, common holly, giant rhubarb, golden bamboo, firethorn, shrub rose, pencil Christmas tree, juniper and rubus (bramble).
Security lighting around your property can act as a deterrent. Ask whether neighbours would see someone with the light. Careful use of lighting will inform you or neighbours if someone is there.
Avoid floodlighting that can cause problems to neighbouring properties.
Make sure waste / recycling bins aren’t in a place which will make them easy to use to step or climb over fences/walls or access windows.
Lock away any garden implements, furniture or tools in a shed, garage or outside store. Items such as ladders can be useful for breaking into your home.
What can I do to protect property in my shed and garage?
Photograph valuable items of garden furniture or tools and keep a record of the make, model, colour and serial numbers.
Use a UV pen or DNA Marking Kit to security mark your tools or furniture with your house number and postcode
Use a chain to lock garden tools and furniture together, ensure the anchor point is securely fixed to the ground or solid structure
Fit a good quality hasp and padlock to the door, make sure it is fitted with dome headed or non-returnable screws to prevent tampering
Depending on the type of window, you could consider fitting internal window grills, heavy wire mesh or reinforced glass
If a window opens, a window lock should be fitted
If you have an intruder alarm, consider extending it to cover sheds, garages and outbuildings. Ensure that there is a visible external sounder box
If you do not have a secure shed, don’t leave items lying out bring items inside
If your garage joins with your home and there is a through door, it should be to the same security standard as your front or back door, and when not being used you should keep it locked.
Leading vet charity PDSA has saved the life of a three-year-old cat who became trapped in a rabbit snare, leaving her with serious injuries.
CupCake, fondly known as C.C, was missing from her home in Canterbury for five days, leaving her loving owner, Karen Gunn, very concerned. When she came home, it was clear by how lethargic she was, there was something severely wrong.
Karen could see something caught on C.C. and immediately took her to PDSA’s out of hours provider, Vets Now in Herne Bay.
Once there, the vets made the horrific discovery that C.C was in fact, caught in a rabbit snare. A snare is a thin wire noose used as a method of wildlife management. When an animal steps into the trap, the noose tightens around them, trapping them in place.
The snare had wrapped so tightly around her waist it was hard to see buried underneath her fur. As C.C had struggled to get herself free, the snare cut deeper into her, causing deep and painful wounds – it was a miracle C.C was able to move, let alone struggle all the way home.
Luckily, thanks to Karen’s quick thinking and the treatment, which was funded by PDSA, the vets were able to save C.C’s life. The snare was very carefully removed and the wounds were cleaned, dressed and treated with antibiotics.
Karen said: “If C.C hadn’t managed to get herself home, I don’t bear to think about what would have happened to her – it’s possible she spent five whole days trapped in that snare, trying to wiggle herself free.
“We can’t thank PDSA enough for ensuring C.C got the treatment she needed for a full recovery.”
C.C needed regular check-ups at Margate PDSA Pet Clinic to monitor her wounds, to ensure they were clean and free from infection.
Karen added: “C.C’s wounds are now fully healed and she’s back on her paws again – she has a big scar and her fur is yet to fully grow back, but she’s a real fighter.”
PDSA Veterinary Surgeon, Lynne James, said: “We’re extremely pleased that Wales has committed to a full ban on all snares, as this is a great step for animal welfare in Wales, due to the suffering these devices cause to wild, farmed and companion animals.
“PDSA supports a ban on the manufacture, sale, possession and use of all snares not just in Wales, but across the whole of the UK, and is now looking to England and Scotland to follow suit and join Wales with a complete ban on snares.”
Lynne added: “Unfortunately we do see cases like C.C’s across our 48 Pet Hospitals, and we firmly believe there needs to be a ban on snares.
“Snares are inhumane; catching a range of wild and domestic animals, including protected species and beloved family pets, often resulting in severe injury or death.
“Animals caught in snares naturally panic and struggle to break free, this causes the snare to cut deeper into the skin and flesh, seriously harming the animal. Unless found, animals suffer horrendously, possibly for many hours, before they die.”
Colleagues walked, cycled and ran 43,000km for charity
Cycling event supported by world record endurance cyclist Jenny Graham
Colleagues and consultant partners at Spire Healthcare’s hospitals and clinics across England, Scotland and Wales have raised over £40,000 after walking, cycling and running almost 43,000 kilometres during Spire Healthcare’s 2023 charity focus week.
The ambition was for colleagues between 10 and 18 June to collectively cover 40,000km – which is the equivalent of circling the globe once – with all monies raised going to a range of local and national charities.
Individual hospitals managed their own fundraising events which included sponsored static bike challenges, walks, runs, sports days, and lots of traditional fundraising activities such as bake sales, raffles and quizzes.
There were also some excellent examples of community engagement, with colleagues at Spire Nottingham Hospital working with the local Tollerton Primary School, to raise £750 for its sensory room.
Spire’s charity focus week also included a two-day 110 km walk from Spire’s Regents Gate office in Reading to Spire’s Dorset Rise office in Central London, and a road cycle from Welwyn Garden City across 50km, 100km and 200km distances visiting Spire Bushey and Spire Harpenden Hospitals.
Over 30 charities were supported by hospitals, including MIND, Trussell Trust Watford Food Bank, Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide, St Catherine’s Hospice, Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal, Alzheimer’s UK and the Stroke Association. Spire’s central functions colleagues chose to fundraise for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Charitable donations are still being accepted and can be made to MacMillan Cancer Support by donating online through our corporate JustGiving page.
Justin Ash, Chief Executive Officer at Spire Healthcare, said: “I’d like to thank colleagues and consultants for taking part in Spire’s 2023 Charity Focus Week and playing their part in fundraising an incredible £33,400 for a wide range of excellent causes.
“We firmly believe in the power of giving back to our local communities and making a positive impact on society. I am so proud of everyone’s work, support and physical efforts to make this such an important and successful week. I particularly want to thank families and friends for sponsoring and supporting us – we could not have achieved this without you.”
Matt Mather, Macmillan Relationship Fundraising Manager, said: “We are massively grateful to all the team at Spire Healthcare for the outstanding sum they have raised.
“Their donation of £6,500 could fund a Macmillan nurse for over five weeks or enable us to provide 19 Macmillan grants to people struggling with the financial impact of their diagnosis.
“Fantastic fundraisers like those at Spire Healthcare help ensure that Macmillan can continue to do whatever it takes to be there for everyone living with cancer.”
Zachary and Ashrith, representatives of Tollerton Primary School in Nottingham said: “We couldn’t believe Spire raised £750 – that is so much money! We are going to use most of the money to improve our sensory room and to buy an aquarium for our new library.
“Please thank everybody at Spire Nottingham Hospital – we really, really appreciate it.”
World record endurance cyclist Jenny Graham, joined Spire colleagues and consultants in the road and track cycle event, and was inspired by the enthusiasm of the Spire team: “I was thrilled to be invited to take part in Spire Healthcare’s 2023 charity fundraising event.
“This is the second time I’ve joined one of Spire’s charity events, so helping the teams reach this years’ goal of covering 40,000km was great fun and all for some fantastic causes.”
Families will have the chance to meet some of their favourite superheroes for free at Fort Kinnaird this summer.
With four pop-up sessions running between the end of July and beginning of August, visitors can meet a whole range of different superhero characters, from Spider-Man and Batman to Wonder Woman and the Hulk.
The first event is on Friday 28th July and will take place from 11am until 4pm outside the Odeon cinema. There is no need to book in advance, but it is advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said:“With a number of superhero films premiering in cinemas this summer, we’re excited to bring some of the nation’s favourite characters to the centre for families to meet and get that all-important selfie.
“We’re always looking for new and different activities for our visitors to enjoy and we’re looking forward to seeing families making the most of the summer fun during the school holidays.”
Visitors to Fort Kinnaird will also have the chance to win a £100 Smyths voucher. To enter, simply take a selfie at the superhero backdrop outside the Odeon cinema and share the picture on Instagram using #SuperSummerFK and tagging @fort_kinnaird.
Welcome Break and Twinkl Team Up to Beat Travel Boredom for UK Families
UK kids set to travel 2.6 billion miles in the car this summer[1]
Half of Scottish parents are averse to playing nursery rhymes for kids in the car
With it taking 28 minutes for the first kid in Scotland to ask, ‘are we there yet?’
Travelling with kids in tow can be stressful for parents. With the summer holidays almost here, Welcome Break has revealed the average child is set to travel 206 miles around the UK this summer.
Luckily for these children, Welcome Break has launched a partnership with Twinkl Educational Publishing to give out free activity packs to help with these long car journeys.
Welcome Break, one of the UK’s leading Motorway Service Area Operators, has recently conducted a survey revealing the top essential items for parents travelling with kids in the car.
According to Scottish respondents, snacks are a must-have, with eight out of ten parents (82 percent) agreeing. The optimal number of snacks for Scottish kids on a car journey is 3 nibbles. Other items rated highly include an iPad or tablet (70 percent) and activity or colouring books (31 percent).
When it comes to music preferences during road trips, Scottish parents stand their ground against nursery rhymes, with half of them (48 percent) saying ‘no’ to playing them in the car. Only a mere 11 percent allow nursery rhymes to keep their back passengers happy!
Additionally, almost a third of Scottish families (29 percent) admit to experiencing disagreements in the car over the playlist. However, according to Welcome Break, musical entertainment doesn’t always prevent moments of boredom for children. It takes just 28 minutes for the first kid to ask, ‘are we there yet?’ and only 45 minutes before a child in Scotland asks, ‘can we stop to use the bathroom?’
Fortunately, traditional car games are still enjoyed by parents and children. More than half of Scottish families (55 percent) play the classic ‘I spy’ on long car journeys, while one in ten (11 percent) engage in the ‘number plate game.’ Additionally, some shrewd parents (21 percent) use the ‘quiet game’ to ensure some moments of peace and silence.
As families plan their summer trips around the UK, Welcome Break’s survey reveals that half of Scottish parents (56 percent) consider a bag of toys and books as the top packing essential for UK holidays. For those who stop at Welcome Break pit stops, Twinkl has created activity mats that are sure to keep children entertained and engaged.
Gary Steele, Operations Director at Welcome Break,commented on the findings: “Welcome Break has everything you need if you’re travelling with children this summer.
“Whether it’s a toilet break, a snack stop or to pick up one of our Twinkl activity packs, we’re there to keep kids entertained on any journey! With 66 percent of Scots holidaying in Scotland this year, we’re there to act as that perfect pitstop whatever your plans are this summer!”
Twinkl’s activity mats, available at all Welcome Break sites, feature a variety of fun puzzles, activities, and games, carefully designed to be both entertaining and educational.
The tasks aim to engage children with their surroundings while on their travels. Twinkl also directs travelling families to a range of their free Twinkl Go! interactive games and Twinkl Originals AudioBook Playlists, ensuring they are well-equipped for their journeys over the summer.
Leon Smith, Chief Customer Officer at Twinkl, commented: “Twinkl is passionate about providing support to all types of educators, including parents. Our collaboration with Welcome Break is a testament to that mission.
“As a parent myself, I understand the challenges of keeping children engaged during long car journeys. That’s why we’ve thoughtfully designed activity mats packed with fun puzzles, activities, and games, all with an educational twist.
“We hope these will make travel more enjoyable for families by sparking curiosity and learning on the road.”
For more free activities, scan the QR code on the sheets to discover free audio books and games that can be played on iPads, tablets, iPhones and Androids. All the activities have been created by Twinkl’s team of experienced teachers and parents, to ensure they are inviting for children with an educational twist.
Is laughter really the best medicine? The ‘Recovery Through Comedy Show’ sets out to prove it is, as a group of Armed Forces veterans, and a currently serving female member of the Armed Forces, bring their unique comedy to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe on 11th and 12th August at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory.
The performers are all graduates of an innovative veterans’ programme developed by the Royal British Legion. The programme uses comedy techniques to promote resilience, and support mental health and wellbeing. Although they had no previous experience, the participants have been supported to create their own original stand-up comedy sets and received rave reviews for their earlier performances.
This will be the first time Poppyscotland, the nation’s leading Armed Forces charity, has hosted a Fringe event and follows the refurbishment of the historic Lady Haig Poppy Factory building.
Poppyscotland’s Director, Austin Hardie, said: “We’re very proud to be able to bring the ‘Recovery through Comedy Show’ to this year’s Fringe. Not only is it very funny, the show also gives a voice to veterans in a new and inspiring way that challenges preconceptions.
“At Poppyscotland, we provide support for current and former members of the Armed Forces and their families in whatever way works best for them. Initiatives like ‘Recovery through Comedy’ show that there are many ways to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.”
The free, ticketed show will be at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Warriston on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th August, with performances at 2pm and 6pm each day. Capacity is limited so guests are encouraged to secure their tickets as early as possible.
THE regional shortlist for Scotland’s premier tourism and events industry awards has been announced.
The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsor Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry, which is worth £11.5 billion to the Scottish economy.
42 tourism businesses, events and individuals are in the running to receive the prestigious award, as the shortlist for the regional finals is revealed.
Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions is among the businesses shortlisted in the Central and East Scotland Thistle Awards. It is shortlisted in the Best Visitor Attraction category, sponsored by The Scottish Sun, alongside Edinburgh Zoo.
The attraction is also in the running for the Inclusive Tourism category sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland, celebrating a business that has a developed an outstanding welcome for all customers and provides accessible facilities which can enjoyed by all customers.
Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions is also shortlisted in the Innovation in Tourism category, which celebrates those driving forward positive chance and creatively adapting to consumer behaviour, alongside Glenkinchie Distillery in East Lothian.
East Lothian Cottages in Haddington and Edinburgh Science are both in the running for the Climate Action Award category, sponsored by the Times, which celebrates businesses, events and destinations that have demonstrable progress on their journey to Net Zero.
And Foxlake Adventures in Dunbar, A Wee Pedal in Edinburgh and Ocean Vertical in Dunbar are shortlisted in the Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience category.
The Original Rossyln Inn in Midlothian is shortlisted in the Best Bar or Pub category, alongside Cocktail Mafia in Edinburgh. Drift in North Berwick is shortlisted in the Best Eating Experience category and Whitekirk Hill, also in North Berwick, in the Best Self Catering Experience category.
Fraser MacDonald from Preston Mill, National Trust for Scotland, East Linton, Katie Scott, Real Mary King’s Close, Edinburgh and Andy Cuthbertson, New Lanark Trust, Lanark are shortlisted in the Tourism Individual of the Year category.
The Scottish Thistle Awards are delivered by VisitScotland in partnership with regional awards programmes.
The five different regional award ceremonies will take place in September, October and November before the regional winners go through to battle it out for a national accolade at the National Final in December.
The awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Outlook 2030.
Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field.
Every entry was required to provide clear evidence on how their business addresses responsible tourism, with new categories such as the Celebrating Thriving Communities Award, Inclusive Tourism Award and Climate Action Award introduced this year.
There are 14 regional categories and 3 national-only categories.
2023 saw more than 600 entries submitted, including almost 1200 nominations from members of the public keen to give hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals the opportunity to earn the recognition they deserve in the part they play in making Scotland such a fantastic place to visit.
Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel, said: “The Scottish Thistle Awards mark an important celebration of the best in our industry.
“They showcase the vest best of Scotland’s tourism and events sector, helping to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are recognised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities.
“Every one of the shortlisted regional finalists is supporting our ambition to make Scotland a better place for people to live and visit. On behalf of the panel, I would like to congratulate all regional finalists and wish each and every one of them the very best of luck at the regional finals and beyond.”
VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “It is fantastic to see such a strong representation from Edinburgh and the Lothians in the regional finals of the Scottish Thistle Awards.
“These entries show the strength and depth of the tourism offer in the city and surrounding area, from quality visitor attractions and experiences to examples of collaboration and innovation, and much more! I wish all those shortlisted the very best of luck at the West of Scotland Thistle Awards.”
For almost 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have helped shine a spotlight on individual businesses, people and partnerships working.
After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they returned with a bang last year, culminating in the crowning of 17 winners at the National Final in February 2023.
This year, they also include a media partnership with News Scotland.
In addition to the Central and East Thistle Awards, VisitScotland delivers the West of Scotland Thistle Awards. The regional awards programme also includes the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and, for the first time this year, the South of Scotland Thistle Awards. This year’s sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, and Fishers, The Macallan Estate, STV and Abbey UK.
Regional finals will take place in different locations around Scotland.
The Central & East Thistle Awards will take place at the Sheraton Grand in Edinburgh on 21 September 2023.
The Aberdeen City and Shire Regional Final, organised by Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards, will take place at the Chester Hotel, Aberdeen, on 22 September.
The West of Scotland Thistle Awards will take place at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow on 28 September 2023.
The South of Scotland Thistle Awards, organised by the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise, will take place at The Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries on 5 October 2023.
The Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards, organised by the Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards, will take place at the The Drumossie Hotel in Inverness on 10 November 2023.
The full 14 regional categories are:
Best B&B or Guest House Experience, sponsored by Abbey UK
Best Bar or Pub
Best Eating Experience
Best Hotel Experience, sponsored by Fishers
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Best Self-Catering Accommodation Experience
Best Visitor Attraction, sponsored by The Scottish Sun
Celebrating Thriving Communities Award
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival
Inclusive Tourism Award sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland
Climate Action Award, sponsored by The Times Scotland
Innovation in Tourism
Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year
Tourism Individual of the Year
The three national only categories are Outstanding Sporting Event, Best Business Event and Best Luxury Experience.
An NHS Lothian doctor has set his sights on distributing donations to his counterparts in war-torn Ukraine.
Dr Peter Cackett, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, set about trying to gather Ophthalmic equipment and supplies that could be delivered to the country. Other organisations, along with NHS Lothian, rallied round to pull together a list of items to help both children and adults alike in Ukraine.
Items included specialist lights and cameras for ophthalmic examinations and vision tests for testing the sharpness of vision in young children who cannot yet read. The equipment was distributed to all three hundred and twenty paediatric ophthalmology departments in Ukraine, as requested by Professor Sergiy Rykov, President of the Association of Paediatric Ophthalmologists of Ukraine, Kyiv.
Also a trustee of the charity Ophthalmic Aid to Eastern Europe (OAEE), Dr Cackett stored the equipment in his home, arranging for heavier items to be collected during the journey to Medyka, a village at the Polish/Ukrainian border for handover of the donations to ophthalmologists from Lviv.
OAEE was established over 30 years ago, after the fall of the Berlin wall, and helps centres in Eastern Europe with ophthalmic equipment, whilst also supporting teaching and training initiatives for ophthalmologists in Eastern and Central Europe.
The donations were delivered to Ukraine overland, by van, by two final year medical students from Edinburgh and Dundee Universities, Wesley McLoughlin and Doireann Hughes, following in the footsteps of a group of medical students that delivered ophthalmic aid to Lviv 30 years ago in 1993.
Dr Cackett, Consultant Ophthalmologist, NHS Lothian said: “I felt that it is was important to help the Ukrainian ophthalmologists as I had previously helped take ophthalmic aid to Lviv, Ukraine in 1993, whilst I was a medical student. Dr Andriy Hudz, the junior doctor in Lviv, who we delivered the aid to in 1993 is now Professor of the department there.
“The Ukrainian ophthalmologists are delighted with the equipment which has been sent. I have started collecting equipment again to deliver more ophthalmic aid to Ukraine and have been trying to source financial donations to help pay for the transportation.
“We are also looking into potentially providing some assistance to Iasi, a city in Romania where Ukrainian refugees have been arriving and also Moldova. We also want to re-establish observerships for Ukrainian ophthalmologists to come to Edinburgh to receive further training.”
