Musselburgh Racecourse leads the field with five nominations in the racing industry’s RCA Showcase Awards.
The East Lothian track has been shortlisted in the marketing, food & beverage, raceday, Racing Post Readers’ Award and the RCA/ROA Owner’s Racecourse of the Year categories.
York Racecourse is in the running with four nominations while all five Scottish racecourses have been nominated, with Hamilton Park listed in three categories.
Musselburgh’s hugely popular Corgi Derby on the opening day of the Flat season – which attracted national headlines – is in the running for winning the marketing award, while the annual Luca’s Ice Cream Family Day is listed in the Raceday award.
In the Racecourse of the Year category, Musselburgh is up against strong opposition from Newbury, York, Bangor-on-Dee and Hamilton Park.
The eight core categories in the Showcase Awards are chosen to reflect the diverse operation of a racecourse, while two public-voted awards offering customers the opportunity to have their say and crown their racecourse of the year in raceday and owners’ experience.
Paul Swain, Head of Raceday Experience & Communications at the RCA, said: “This list represents the best of British racecourses over the past 12 months and demonstrates their commitment to providing a fantastic experience for participants and racegoers alike.
“Our independent judging panel commented on the high standard of entries this year which was evident when considering the scores awarded. There is an abundance of best practice that should be replicated across the sport and the RCA will ensure this is front and centre of our raceday experience programme in 2024.”
The Showcase Awards ceremony will be hosted by Aintree Racecourse on 23 November.
Self Assessment customers are urged to be on the lookout for scam texts, emails and phone calls from fraudsters.
This warning comes as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) received more than 130,000 reports about tax scams in the 12 months to September 2023, of which 58,000 were offering fake tax rebates.
With around 12 million people expected to submit a Self Assessment tax return for the 2022 to 2023 tax year before the 31 January 2024 deadline, fraudsters will prey on customers by impersonating HMRC.
The scams take different approaches. Some offer a rebate; others tell customers that they need to update their tax details or threaten immediate arrest for tax evasion.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “HMRC is reminding customers to be wary of approaches by fraudsters in the run up to the Self Assessment deadline. Criminals are great pretenders who try and dupe people by sending emails, phone calls and texts which mimic government messages to make them appear authentic.
“Unexpected contacts like these should set alarm bells ringing, so take your time and check HMRC scams advice on GOV.UK.”
Customers can report any suspicious communications to HMRC:
forward suspicious texts claiming to be from HMRC to 60599
HMRC works to protect the public from scammers. In the 12 months to September 2023, HMRC has responded to 60,000 reports of phone scams alone and got 25,000 malicious web pages taken down.
Customers do not need to wait until 31 January before filing their tax return, they can submit it before then but do not have to pay until the deadline, unless they choose to. Filing earlier allows them to find out what they owe sooner or if they are owed money, get their refund.
Help and support is available on GOV.UK to help customers complete their return, there is no need to call us. HMRC has a wide range of online resources to help customers file a tax return including a series of video tutorials on YouTube and help and support guidance on GOV.UK alongside HMRC digital assistant, HMRC app, community forums and the help and support email service.
Rachel Bremner, Commis Pastry Chef at the Balmoral, is a finalist
The Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland is proud to announce five finalists for the fourth annual Andrew Fairlie Scholarship. The event will take place on Wednesday 22nd November 2023.
Five talented chefs have been shortlisted to compete in a skills test for the chance to become an Andrew Fairlie scholar and take part in once-in-a-lifetime culinary educational experiences.
Among them is Edinburgh’s Balmoral Commis Pastry Chef Rachel Bremner (above).
The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is an invaluable opportunity for chefs seeking first-hand experience within some of the world’s most renowned establishments, offering the ultimate education for up-and-coming chefs.
Launched in 2019, the late Andrew Fairlie was a key figure behind the scholarship initiative. The scholarship is offered in partnership with HIT Scotland, an industry charity with which Andrew was closely connected.
Now in its fourth year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is supported by HIT Scotland, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Perth College UHI and The Gleneagles Hotel.
The five skilled chefs competing for this ‘ultimate scholarship’ are:
Daniel Robb, 27, Chef de Partie at Gleneagles
Rachel Bremner, 34, Commis Pastry Chef at the Balmoral
Darren Seggie, 35, Lecturer of Culinary Arts at City of Glasgow College
Spud Henderson, 34, Sous Chef at Craig Millar @ 16 West End
Rita Varga, 31, Chef de Partie and kitchen departmental trainer at Voco Grand Central Hotel.
Competition details
On Wednesday 22 November, Perth College UHI will host the skills test and judging portion of the day, with the winner’s announcement being made at Gleneagles. This year, the finalists have been challenged to create a dish with potato as its star ingredient, as well as incorporating Scottish dairy.
An all-star panel of the country’s finest chefs will judge the 2023 competition.
Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, will be joined by fellow 2 Michelin starred Chef Sat Bains, 1 Michelin star Head Chef at Cail Bruich and winner of Great British Menu, Lorna McNee, and Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland, Gary Maclean.
The winner of this year’s Scholarship will be taken on an incredible 2-day educational trip to France with Grand Cuisine, and gain hands-on experience at the 2-Michelin star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, the 3-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, an international stage, as well as receiving a bespoke chef’s jacket.
These highly informative experiences will be taken over two years, allowing the scholar to develop their learnings over a period of time.
David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland,said: “This is a unique opportunity for chefs in Scotland to not only hone their culinary skills but to also carry forward the remarkable legacy of Andrew Fairlie.
“It is a gateway to a world of fantastic industry opportunities that can enhance their careers and personal development.
“We remain committed to showcasing the exceptional talent in Scotland while continuing to champion Andrew’s incredible legacy. Best of luck to all of our finalists!”
Stephen McLaughlin, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie Head Chef and lead judge,said: “Our five finalists have earned their rightful place in this year’s Andrew Fairlie Scholarship final.
“I can feel how they have all been inspired by the brief – they have challenged both themselves and the humble potato to be as good as they can be.
“I often talk about simple things that are brilliantly done and they have all shown their understanding of this in their well thought out recipes. I now look forward to seeing the chefs recreating these dishes on finals day.”
Finalist Darren Seggie commented on being shortlisted: It is an incredible honour for me to have been shortlisted for the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship.
“Andrew Fairlie as a chef, the restaurant and Gleneagles as a whole have always been held in the highest regard to me, it holds a special place in my heart and to be associated with it in any way is a dream come true.”
Finalist Daniel Robb said: “Being shortlisted will give me the chance to showcase my skills and capabilities to the judges and having the opportunity to show my creativity and passion through my dish is something I’m really excited about.
“I’m very excited to be a part of the final and make my family, colleagues and myself proud.”
Finalist Rachel Bremneradded: “I am incredibly proud and grateful to be shortlisted. I could not have done this without the support from everyone at the hotel, both past and present.
“I am looking forward to meeting everyone else who was shortlisted and seeing what they came up with in their interpretation of the brief.”
Finalist Rita Vargasaid: “Being shortlisted for this prestigious scholarship is fantastic. I am happy that I can be part of it because I highly respect the work HIT Scotland does and how they bring hospitality together.
“This is also an opportunity to learn and develop. It makes me feel lucky that I have a chance to show my skills.”
Little monsters can actively enjoy Halloween this year and have a frightfully good time at Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft-play centres across the city.
Let them get into the Halloween spirit by joining one of our soft play parties. There’ll be ghoulish discos, petrifying party games and of course lots of soft play fun.
Prizes are on offer for the best fancy dress so get creative!
Where: Clambers at Royal Commonwealth Pool 21 Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh EH16 5BB
When: 4.00-6.00 pm Thursday, 19 October and Thursday, 26th October 2023
To book: Book your child’s space at reception during your next visit.
Tickets are now on sale. Entry is for ticket holders only. Please present tickets at the venue’s welcome desk. Each venue will close to ‘pay as you play’ entry one hour before the start of the party. Children must be under the supervision of their parent/carer at all times.
Soft Play Membership – October offer
Sign up for a Soft Play Membership in October and we’ll gift you December FREE!
From only £17.99 a month*, your little adventurers can have fun in our three unique soft play venues across the city as well as receiving exclusive member benefits throughout the year.
This is a great way to keep your kids active and entertained.
As fireworks season approaches, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners and animal keepers to start preparing now to prevent possible injury and distress to their pets and livestock in the run up to Bonfire Night (5 November), Diwali (12 November) and New Year’s Eve (31 December).
Each year, vets across the UK treat animals with firework-related injuries. By far the most commonly reported cases were self injuries caused by fireworks-related anxiety, such as tooth injuries to dogs from chewing furniture or fractures in horses that had bolted from their fields. The debris and remnants of fireworks and paper lanterns in fields and surrounding countryside can also pose a serious risk of injury to livestock, wildlife and zoo animals.
Signs of fireworks-related distress can vary from animal to animal. While some pets show obvious signs of fireworks-related anxiety, such as panting, drooling and attempts to escape, there are also more subtle signs that owners should be aware of, including restlessness and toileting in the house.
Cats often hide, while rabbits may keep very still and thump the ground with their back feet. Poultry are especially at risk of ‘smother’, where in a fear response birds huddle together, which can result in death for some.
British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said:“The loud whizzes, bangs and whistles of rockets, Roman candles and sparklers can be fun for some of us, but fireworks displays can be extremely traumatic for animals. Each year, vets treat animals with injuries as a result of stress and fright, as well as burns.
“Contact your vet now to discuss noise desensitisation techniques, pheromone products and other treatments that may be appropriate for your pet. Make sure pets are microchipped with up-to-date details in case of escape. You can also take simple steps around the house now, such as creating a den for dogs and cats, to keep them safe and calm when fireworks start.
“If your pet gets significantly distressed by fireworks, ask your vet about longer-term treatment options, which can be successful with professional input and owner commitment and patience.”
BVA suggests ten top tips to help pet owners and livestock keepers prepare animals as fireworks season approaches.
Top tips to keep animals safe:
Talk to your vet to discuss treatment options for fireworks-induced stress. This may include drugs to help dogs with noise phobias or pheromone products to apply next to your pets’ den and around the house to keep them calm.
Create a well-padded den for your pet to access ahead of fireworks season so they have a safe place to hide when fireworks start.
Ensure your pet is microchipped and your details are up to date on the database, in case it runs away from home.
Move small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs to a quiet place indoors.
Close windows and curtains and provide background noise to help mask the fireworks.
If your pet is distressed, remain calm yourself. Restlessness or toileting in the house can be signs of stress, so don’t punish them.
Keep livestock housed at times when fireworks are likely to be set off locally and remove any firework debris from grazing pasture before letting them out.
Horses may be better turned out in a field than stabled, as in a stable they may feel enclosed and unable to move. Owners should consult a qualified equine behaviourist if they have significant concerns about their horse’s response to fireworks.
If you’re hosting a fireworks display, avoid setting them off near horses, livestock or companion animals. Dispose of any debris and remnants of fireworks responsibly.
Before lighting a bonfire, remember to check for any wild animals that may be hiding in it.
Education Secretary announces plans as part of wider reform
Plans for a new national centre to ensure excellence in teaching across Scotland have been announced by Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth.
The Centre of Teaching Excellence will support research and innovation in teaching practice for all children and young people, with the aim of making Scotland a world-leader in teaching practice.
The centre will be developed in partnership with teachers and professional associations as part of ongoing work to reform Scotland’s education system.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “Excellent learning and teaching must be the foundation of all that we do in Scottish education.
“I want to ensure that all of our hard-working teachers are supported and empowered in our classrooms.
“That is why, as part of the education reform agenda, we will establish a new Centre of Teaching Excellence, making Scotland a world-leader in new approaches to learning and teaching.
“Co-designed with our teachers and professional associations, the Centre of Teaching Excellence will put Scotland at the forefront of innovative research in teaching practice.
“We will use the centre to work together with Local Authorities in our shared, national mission to close the attainment gap and deliver truly excellent learning and teaching to all of our children.”
Next steps for the creation of the Centre of Teaching Excellence will be announced in due course, after engagement with teachers and professional associations.
Stockbridge Church‘s Bicentenary is nearly here – the building opened on 16th November 1823.
Some events have already taken place since the summer, but above is a listing of a range of celebratory services and events that will be taking place in the coming weeks.
The documents, which include a Model Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils and Good Practice Guidance for how Community Councils should operate, were launched last week. Local Authorities can use this set of documents as the basis for their local versions which set out how community councils will run in their area.
Community councillors and local authority Community Council Liaison Officers (CCLOs) were involved in reviewing the existing Model Scheme and guidance document at a series of meetings in 2021 and 2022. These documents needed to be updated to take into account technological changes in the way Community Councils are meeting, conducting their finances and engaging with their communities.
There is some useful good practice guidance included, containing the latest information on topics such as planning, community empowerment and GDPR.
We felt that it is important that the key documents are available in accessible formats and that these should be available at a national level, to ensure that everyone within our communities can access and use the documents. The Good Practice Guidance for Community Councils, the Code of Conduct and the Standing Orders are now available in a range of formats.
There’s a video with BSL and captions, large print versions of the documents, text only versions that are suitable for braille conversion, and Easy Read.
The Easy Read versions contain all of the information but break it down into small chunks, with explanations of some of the terms that are used.
This helps make the information more accessible for people with learning disabilities, people who have memory problems, people who speak English as their second language and anyone who finds reading difficult.
It can also be useful for people who are anxious or stressed and struggling to take in information because of that or those who have to take in information in a hurry.
All of the documents are also available in Gaelic, and other language translations can be requested.
The Festival Director of the Edinburgh International Festival and internationally acclaimed classical violinist Nicola Benedetti CBE has been selected as the recipient of the 2023 Edinburgh Award.
Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has celebrated individuals who have made a truly unique contribution to the city and brought our capital to national and international attention. Previous recipients include bestselling authors, ground-breaking scientists, human rights activists, and exemplary sportspeople. The Edinburgh Award allows its citizens to see the individuals who have made a real and lasting impact on the city.
This year marked Benedetti’s first edition of the International Festival as Festival Director which was a resounding success. Over 24 packed days, the Edinburgh International Festival saw performances from 2,500 remarkable and diverse artists representing 50 nations.
Nicola Benedetti will be presented with an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost and have her handprints set in stone at the City Chambers later this year.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Edinburgh Award Panel, Robert Aldridge said: “I’m delighted that Nicola Benedetti CBE has accepted the decision of the panel and become the latest recipient of the Edinburgh Award. She deservedly follows in the footsteps of some of the finest individuals associated with our great city.
“From heading up one of the world’s most important cultural celebrations in the Edinburgh International Festival, to being a globally renowned musician in her own right, she has represented the Capital with pride, dedication, and skill. Nicola is also one of the youngest ever recipients of the Edinburgh Award which shows the measure and scale of her talent and achievements.
“I’d also highlight the fantastic work of the Benedetti Foundation, based in the city, which focusses on musical education, participation, and experiences. Since its establishment in 2019 it has reached over 50,000 participants of all ages from 103 countries.
“I’d like to congratulate Nicola on behalf of the city, and I’m sure she will continue to do great things in the future, both here in Edinburgh and beyond.”
Festival Director of the Edinburgh International Festival, Nicola Benedetti CBE said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Edinburgh Award and humbled to join the incredible list of individuals who have contributed to the cultural fabric of this city.
“I am grateful to the city of Edinburgh for recognising the importance of the arts and their contribution to our way of life.
“As my journey with Edinburgh International Festival deepens, this award, as well as the support of the people of this city, strengthens my dedication to our mission: to continue to welcome people from all walks of life into our home, and to give them artistic experiences they will never forget. Thank you so much.”
Nicola Benedetti Bio:
Nicola Benedetti is one of the most sought-after violinists of her generation and is the Festival Director of the Edinburgh International Festival. Her ability to captivate audiences and passionate advocacy for access to live music has made her one of the most influential figures in classical music today.
Nicola is the first Scottish and the first female Festival Director of the International Festival since it began in 1947. Her first Festival took place from 4-27 August 2023 and the programme was themed around the question ‘Where Do We Go From Here.’
As a performing artist, Nicola’s 2022-2023 season began with a performance of the Marsalis Violin Concerto with the RSNO at the BBC Proms and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto with Kazuki Yamada and the CBSO. Further engagements include the world premiere of James MacMillan’s Violin Concerto with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, a tour to Japan with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia, WDR Cologne and Orchestre de Paris amongst others.
Winner of the GRAMMY award for “Best Classical Instrumental Solo” in 2020, Nicola records exclusively for Decca (Universal Music). Her latest recordings of Vivaldi Concerti (with her own Benedetti Baroque Orchestra) and Elgar’s Violin Concerto entered at number one in the UK’s Official Classical Album Chart. Other recent recordings include her GRAMMY award-winning album written especially for her by jazz musician Wynton Marsalis: Violin Concerto in D and Fiddle Dance Suite for Solo Violin. In 2021, BBC Music Magazine named her “Personality of the Year” for her online support of many young musicians during the pandemic.
Nicola was appointed a CBE in 2019, awarded the Queen’s Medal for Music (2017) and an MBE in 2013. In addition, Nicola holds the positions of Vice President (National Children’s Orchestras), Big Sister (Sistema Scotland), Patron (National Youth Orchestras of Scotland’s Junior Orchestra, Music in Secondary Schools Trust and Junior Conservatoire at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland).
In 2019, Nicola formalised her commitment to music in education when she established The Benedetti Foundation which delivers transformative experiences through mass music events and unites those who believe music is integral to life’s education. In the Foundation’s first three years, it has reached over 50,000 people (live and online) in every Scottish and English Local Authority and across 103 countries.
