Month: June 2024

Leith Victoria Swim Centre is calling out for keen bakers to help them celebrate turning 125 years

One of Edinburgh Leisure’s five Victorian pools, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, will be celebrating 125-years of ‘serving’ the city of Edinburgh and is calling on any keen bakers to join in the festivities.

The venue will be holding a Bake-Off event to celebrate the occasion on Friday, 28th June and is asking local businesses, staff and customers to embrace their inner Mary Berry to create some delicious cakes and tray bakes to raise funds for their Active Communities programmes.

Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities supports 12,500 people annually who face the greatest barriers to get active – people affected by health conditions, inequalities, and poverty.  As a venue, they hold 23 Active Community classes each week, and Leith Victoria is one of Edinburgh Leisure’s busiest venues supporting hundreds of people in the local community.

The Bake-Off judging will take place at 11.20 – 11.30am following a busy Aqua and yoga class that takes place earlier in the building, when participants often congregate for a coffee and a blether after. Prizes will be awarded to the best bakes.

June Peebles, Edinburgh Leisure’s previous Chief Executive, who retired in March 2024 after 38 years’ service with Edinburgh Leisure, will be Chief Judge, along with Jen Holland, their new CEO and one of Leith Victoria’s regular customers Christine, 71 years, who attends 19 classes a week at the Leith Viccies, as it is affectionately known locally.

The original Victoria Leith Baths were opened in 1899 by Provost John Bennet. The original plaque is still on display at Leith Victoria Swim Centre.   A plaque is also still on display on the exterior of the building which says, ‘Leith School Board, Swimming Baths, 1896’ and there is still the old red and white ‘Baths’ sign on the exterior of the building. 

Leith Swimming Baths (now restored) linked to the ‘Public Baths’ (i.e. rows of enamel baths) and Laundry (both now demolished to create the Victoria Swim Centre).  The baths were in use until the late 1970s, due to the high number of Leith dwellings lacking bathrooms up to that time.  In the good old days, men got changed on one side of the pool, and ladies on the other.   Obviously that no longer happens but the baths do have individual changing cubicles around the outside of the pool.

Louise Bathgate, Manager at Leith Victoria explained: “At 125 years old, Leith Viccies is rich in history, and we also know it holds a special place in so many people’s hearts locally, with customers of a certain vintage telling us how they learnt to swim here many years ago and have carried the tradition on with their children and grandchildren learning to swim here too.  

“So, if there are any keen bakers locally for whom Leith Viccies holds a special place in their memory bank and would like to get involved, please get in touch. It’s all a bit of fun but will hopefully raise much needed funds for Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme, which supports so many different groups of people.”

If there are any keen bakers who would like to contribute a traybake, biscuits, cookies or cake for the event, the team at Leith Victoria would love to have your support.  Please get in touch with:

susanmcintosh@edinburghleisure.co.uk or juliaadams@edinburghleisure.co.uk .

Framework launched to transform water safety in Edinburgh schools

New initiative aims to reduce drowning risk

A BOLD new framework that aims to revolutionise water safety in schools has been launched.

4400 children from Edinburgh have already taken part in the new National Primary School Swimming Framework.

The National Primary School Swimming Framework – a partnership between  Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming – vision is to ensure that primary school children (ideally at Primary 4/Primary 5 level) across Scotland will get to learn basic water safety and drowning prevention skills to help them be safer and more confident in, on and around water.

Developed by Scottish Swimming and supported by Scottish Water, the Framework will introduce standardised outcomes alongside innovative, flexible delivery models tailored to local needs to enhance the current School Swimming provision.

Mel Coutts, Wider Achievement Manager for Sport & Physical Activity from The City of Edinburgh Council said: “Teaching water safety skills is vital for ensuring children of all backgrounds are safe around water.  

“The National Primary School Swimming Framework complements the model which has been successfully developed in Edinburgh for many years and is delivered across our 90 primary schools.

“Building this programme over the years has built the confidence of our schools in our swimming programme and in turn improves the confidence of pupils taking part. The fact that the Framework can be adapted so easily is a huge plus.

“Our partnership with Scottish Swimming is highly valued and the support we received for additional teaching support to work with our curriculum Swim Teachers to target non-swimmers has been priceless.”

Edinburgh facilitated the pilot across 14 pools and aims to reach around 5000 pupils in the next academic year.

Launched during a Drowning Prevention Week event at Loch Lomond yesterday (19 June), the framework hopes to ensure all children have the chance to learn vital water safety skills, which may be their only opportunity for such education.

Over 9200 pupils have already taken part in two phases of pilots which were carried out across nine local authorities across Scotland, the Framework has now been made accessible for all local authorities and pools.

Statistics show that Scotland’s record on drownings are worryingly high, with 47 accidental drownings reported by the National Water Safety Forum in 2023, almost 10 fatal drownings per one million people, almost triple the rate of the rest of the UK.

Euan Lowe, CEO at Scottish Swimming, added: “Our vision is that ‘everyone can swim’, and we believe that teaching primary school age children water safety skills is vital to this.

“The framework’s flexible approach allows schools to adopt models best suited to their circumstances while delivering consistent skills and messaging in relation to water safety. Whether through a universal approach or targeted programmes for non-swimmers, we maintain core water safety principles.

“This collaborative effort with Scottish Water and the Scottish Government, sportscotland, and educational bodies underscores our commitment to making swimming accessible and safe for all children.”

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Learning how to be safer in, on and around water is such an important life skill – everyone should be able to enjoy Scotland’s miles of rivers, lochs, reservoirs and shorelines, and do so safely.

“Scotland’s drowning rates highlight the urgent need for comprehensive water safety education.“We are proud to support the National Primary School Swimming Framework, which aims to help ensure children across Scotland leave primary school with the essential knowledge and skills to stay safe around water.”

A recent survey of primary school headteachers in Scotland revealed that nine in 10 that currently deliver school swimming value it as part of their pupils’ education. With nearly three quarters (72%) of schools unaware of the Water Safety Scotland Progression Pathway classroom resources for school teachers, this new framework is set out to ensure all children receive essential water safety skills.

The framework is designed to adapt to various local authority environments, ensuring inclusivity and targeting children who may not have previous swimming experience. Integrating the Water Safety Code throughout aligns with Water Safety Scotland’s drowning prevention initiatives.

Supported by the Scottish Government and sportscotland, and with the involvement of Education Scotland and Water Safety Scotland, pilot programmes explored different delivery models, leading to the comprehensive framework now available for schools across the nation.

Pilot programmes were carried out in the following local authorities:

  • Dundee: 30 pupils
  • East Lothian: 1238 pupils
  • North Lanarkshire: 134 pupils
  • Scottish Borders: 86 pupils
  • West Dunbartonshire: 1100 pupils
  • Aberdeen: 1490 pupils
  • Edinburgh: 4400 pupils
  • Clackmannanshire: 540 pupils
  • East Renfrewshire: 230 pupils

The framework is linked to Scottish Swimming’s comprehensive education qualifications and CPD courses to aid the development and quality of delivery.

Drowning Prevention Week (15-22 June 2024), organised by the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS), stands as one of the largest water safety campaigns in the UK and Ireland, specifically targeting the summer season. Its primary goal is to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to make informed decisions regarding water safety, particularly during the summer months.

For more information on The National Primary School Swimming Framework, visit: https://www.scottishswimming.com/ 

or contact schoolswimming@scottishswimming.com

Màiri McAllan maternity cover

Gillian Martin to be Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy

Gillian Martin will take on responsibility for the Net Zero and Energy brief as Acting Cabinet Secretary when Màiri McAllan starts her maternity leave next month.

The cover arrangements will begin on 1 July and are being made as Ms McAllan is expecting her first child in July. Ms McAllan is the second serving Cabinet Secretary in the Scottish Government to take maternity leave. She will remain Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy while on leave, resuming her duties upon her return.

Ms Martin will step up from her current post of Minister for Climate Action to be Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, while retaining responsibility for the Circular Economy.

Alasdair Allan, who previously served as a Minister from 2011 to 2018, will rejoin the government as Acting Minister for Climate Action as cover for Ms Martin.

These appointments are subject to the approval of the Scottish Parliament and His Majesty The King.  

First Minister John Swinney said: “I want to thank Màiri McAllan for everything she has achieved in government so far, including ensuring that tackling the climate crisis and accelerating our era defining energy transition to a just transition remains one of our key priorities.

“I look forward to welcoming Màiri back to her post as Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy next year, and send my warmest wishes to her, Iain and their whole family as they embark on this exciting new chapter together.

“I am delighted that Gillian Martin will become Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy and I look forward to welcoming Alasdair Allan back to government as Acting Minister for Climate Action. I am confident they will work tirelessly to ensure we continue to meet our climate obligations.”

Ms McAllan said: “Tacking the climate crisis and seizing the era defining opportunity of Scotland’s energy transition remain two of the biggest challenges and opportunities of our time.

“That is why I have been honoured to lead this vitally important portfolio in government, working with stakeholders across the country to ensure we are supporting our transition to net zero in a sustainable and fair way, as well as seizing the opportunities of the future.

!I know the Scottish Government will continue to make good progress and that the portfolio is in safe hands with Gillian Martin and Alasdair Allan.”

Ms Martin said: “Having worked in this vital area for over a year, I am so pleased to be stepping up to the role of Acting Cabinet Secretary.

“I remain committed to ensuring the government is laser focused on tackling the climate emergency.”

Dr Allan said: “It is an honour to rejoin the Scottish Government and I look forward to working with colleagues in government and Parliament, as well as stakeholders across Scotland, to ensure we progress our plans around energy efficiency and renewable heating.”

Record ticket sales ahead of this weekend’s Royal Highland Show

Friday and Saturday sell out

This weekend, the gates will open on Scotland’s largest outdoor event, the Royal Highland Show, with its event organiser RHASS (the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland), confirming that tickets for Friday and Saturday have now sold out.

This year has also seen higher ticket sales recorded than in previous years, with ticket sales up 15% on the same time last year.

Friday and Saturday car parking is also sold out and attendees without parking tickets are encouraged to use public transport.

**Pics free to use** RHASS and Edinburgh Trams

Up to 55,000 visitors will make their way to Ingliston, Edinburgh on each of the four days of the Show from today Thursday 20th until Sunday 23rd June to experience ‘acres of epicness’ during the unforgettable event which includes a mix of the traditional and unexpected.  

Now in its 202nd year, the Royal Highland Show sees an influx of visitors from as far a field as Argentina, USA and Australia and exhibitors and competitors from all corners of the UK arrive during Show week.

This transforms the Royal Highland Centre into the sixth largest population in Scotland, bigger than Paisley and Dunfermline, with the Show contributing almost 40 million pounds to Edinburgh’s economy each year.

While tradition remains at the heart of the Royal Highland Show, the event is far from conventional. 

Sitting alongside the traditional aspects including livestock competitions and parades – around 6,000 animals flock to the Show over the four days – visitors can expect to see sparks fly in the heat of a farriery competition, daredevil BMX riders Showing off their flips and tricks and be on the edge of their seats in the forestry arena as they are entertained by axe throwers, live chainsaw carving, and pole climbers.

The dedicated kid zone located in the Countryside Area will include live Sealpin Gundog and birds of prey flying demonstrations. The RHET Discovery Centre will also allow young visitors to turn their hand to milking Mabel the (fiberglass) cow and take part in honey tasting and candle making.

After the Show on Friday and Saturday, legendary country music promoters, Farmers Bash present the Royal Highland Hoolie which brings together some of the very best of Scotland and Ireland’s homegrown talent to the Royal Highland Centre.

Eight live folk and country music acts will perform including headliners Tide Lines and Derek Ryan. Limited tickets are still available for the Hoolie which can be purchased from www.royalhighlandShow.org

Those attending both the Show and Hoolie are encouraged to use public transport wherever possible. Travelling by Edinburgh Tram to Ingliston Park and Ride visitors will be able to get a shuttle bus to the Show or if travelling by bus, Lothian Buses 97 and 98 services will run direct from central Edinburgh to the Show.  Visitors who do wish to drive are required to book parking tickets in advance as no parking tickets will be available on the day.

David Tennant, Head of Show for RHASS, said: “We’ve officially sold out across two days! The site transforms into the sixth largest population in Scotland the week of the Show; effectively we transform the venue into a mini town which is no mean feat, but our dedicated team have been working around the clock over the last three and a half weeks to ensure visitors have the best experience possible when they visit us this weekend.

“Our traditional Show elements very much remain at the heart of the weekend, with the best of British livestock and equine competing but we also have so many unexpected and family-friendly activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

“From music to BMX stunts, cookery displays, the farrier competition, sheep sheering and birds of prey and sheepdog demonstrations, there really is something for everyone.

“With large crowds anticipated, we are encouraging those travelling to the Show to consider using public transport whenever possible. The Show is located just minutes from the tram and dedicated Lothian buses will drop you right at the door of the event. We’re looking forward to welcoming this year’s Show-goers through the gates come Thursday!”

Visitors are also encouraged to download the Royal Highland Show app ahead of Show day to make the most of their day out. Through it, Showgoers can view the Show programme, competition schedules and access an interactive map of the Show.

Those who missed out on tickets for this year will be able to catch a one-hour daily programme featuring key event highlights, interviews, and stories from each day of the Royal Highland Show via RHS TV.

The programme will broadcast on Freeview channel 278 and will also be available to watch on demand on the Royal Highland Show Website.

For further information including travel information, booking car parking or Hoolie tickets visit www.royalhighlandShow.org

Concern over missing man

UPDATE: 72-year-old Gary Hardie missing from Edinburgh has been traced.

POLICE are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 72-year-old man missing from Edinburgh.

Gary Hardie, was last seen in the Mountcastle Loan area at around 6.20pm yesterday (Wednesday, 19 June, 2024).

He is described as being around 5ft 8in in height, of stocky build with white hair. When last seen he was wearing a beige jacket with a light brown leather collar, blue jeans and light brown loafers.

He is known to frequent the Drylaw area.

Inspector Grant McCulloch said: “Gary is vulnerable and concerns are growing for his welfare. Our enquiries are ongoing and I am appealing for anyone who has seen Gary or who has any information on his whereabouts to contact us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 3505 of 19 June, 2024.

UPDATE: 72-year-old Gary Hardie missing from Edinburgh has been traced.

BBC ALBA launches search for up-and-coming Highlands and Islands artist to open Belladrum main stage

BBC ALBA has teamed up with The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival during the 13th year of coverage to launch a search to find the best of Scotland’s up-and-coming musical talent.

Celebrating 20 years of Belladrum – and its longstanding support of Scottish artists – the search brings the spirit of the much-loved family festival to life to find the best talent ‘homegrown in the Highlands – and Islands’, with the winner given the opportunity to open the main stage.

Open to solo artists and bands from the Highlands and Islands (where at least 50% of its members have a Highland home address) across all genres, the talent search will showcase the top newcomer with a prime slot in the Hot House Arena on Thursday 25 July, kicking off the weekend of live music and arts.

The winner will also have the opportunity to play an acoustic session in the BBC ALBA studio which will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer as part of the broadcaster’s festival coverage.

Musicians can apply by submitting a bio and link to their music to tartanheart@bbc.co.uk, with entries judged by a panel of experts, including representatives from Belladrum, the BBC and Scottish folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Julie Fowlis, before the shortlist goes to a public vote on the Belladrum website.

Julie Fowlis comments: “The Belladrum Tartan Heart festival has become one of Scotland’s most popular and iconic music festivals, set in the most beautiful Highland surroundings. It’s the kind of festival that every musician wants to play!

“I’m honoured to be part of the judging team for this year’s talent search, which affords an amazing opportunity to an up and coming artist from the Highlands and Islands to perform at the festival. If you’d like to play Bella this year, this is your chance.”

Calum McConnell, commissioning editor at BBC ALBA, said: “We’re proud supporters of the arts in Scotland, and committed to bringing coverage of the likes of Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival to viewers across the nation through funding from MG ALBA.

”We’re always keen to showcase our homegrown talent, so what better way to extend our annual support of the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival in its 20th anniversary year than with a search for the next best ‘homegrown’ talent from the Highlands and Islands.

“Our Belladrum festival coverage is always a highlight in the BBC ALBA summer schedule and with the winner earning a spot on the main stage, we hope this can give an emerging artist the boost to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Fatherson, Frightened Rabbit and Twin Atlantic, who all played at Belladrum early on in their careers.”

Belladrum brings together top musical acts, comedy, cabaret, spoken word, dance, drag and even wrestling as part of the annual family-friendly festival. A wealth of new names have been added to the festival’s 20th anniversary line up in recent weeks, with returning festival favourites and artists making their first visit to the Highland event, including mighty rock music legends, Toyah & Robert, and the UK’s biggest country music export, The Shires.

A band with one of the most long-standing relationships with Belladrum, Twin Atlantic, will also make a welcome return, headlining The Garden Stage this summer – having first made their break on the festival’s emerging artist stage in 2008.

These acts join the previously announced headliners Deacon Blue, James Arthur and Sugababes, alongside Ocean Colour Scene, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Calum Beattie, Teenage Fanclub, Jack Bugg and many more, with this year’s event themed around ‘love’.

Dougie Brown, Belladrum festival producer, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with BBC ALBA in search of the most exciting up and coming artists from across the Highlands & Islands.

“Since the very first festival in 2004 Bella has been proud to showcase the best in emerging music alongside household names and festival favourites.

“Numerous artists careers have grown in parallel with the festival and there is nothing better than watching an artist’s career blossom and invite them to return to the festival to perform on bigger stages and to bigger audiences over the years.”

The talent search is now open, with entries accepted via email to tartanheart@bbc.co.uk until 9am on Friday 12 July.

Find out more about Belladrum and get your tickets at tartanheartfestival.com. For those unable to attend, BBC ALBA will be bringing the best of the festival to viewers at home with its annual live coverage broadcast across the weekend, available on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer.

Watch live or on demand from 25 July: Belladrum on BBC ALBA.

Queensferry One: Breathing new life into a historic naval base

Queensferry One, located in Rosyth on the northern bank of the Firth of Forth, has transformed from a historic military hub into a pivotal development site within the Forth Green Freeport.

This rejuvenated industrial zone is poised to become a powerhouse of innovation and growth, particularly in Scotland’s burgeoning renewable energy sector.

From Naval Heritage to Industrial Innovation

Queensferry One’s storied past as a naval dockyard began in the early 1900s, supporting the Royal Navy’s operations throughout both World Wars. The Rosyth Dockyard played a crucial role in shipbuilding, repair and refitting, with its expansive dry docks and cranes becoming iconic landmarks. After the decline of naval activities, the site shifted focus, adapting to the needs of the modern industrial economy.

In recent years, Queensferry One has embraced its role as a hub for new industries. The shift from military to civilian use has paved the way for extensive redevelopment, positioning the site as a strategic asset within the Forth Green Freeport.

The Role of Scarborough Muir Group in Queensferry One’s Transformation

A driving force behind the redevelopment of Queensferry One has been Scarborough Muir Group (SMG), a 50:50 joint venture between the Yorkshire-based property developer, Scarborough Group International, and Inverkeithing-based contractor, Muir Group. Since acquiring the site in the late 1990s, SMG has been instrumental in transforming the former naval dockyard into an oven-ready development site.

Following planning permission for enabling works in 2003, SMG embarked on an extensive land remediation strategy to prepare the site for development.

This ambitious project included the challenging task of demolishing a bomb-proof bunker that had stored fuel for naval ships during wartime. The bunker, comprising over one million tonnes of reinforced concrete, was meticulously broken up using explosives.

The resulting material was repurposed as hardcore for various infrastructure projects throughout Fife, showcasing a sustainable approach to redevelopment.

The comprehensive remediation works were completed in early 2023, laying the groundwork for the creation of up to 1.2 million square feet of employment space across 120 acres of land.

A Strategic Gateway to Renewable Opportunities

With the designation of Special Tax Site status under the Forth Green Freeport, which became effective from 12 June 2024, Queensferry One is ideally positioned to attract a diverse range of businesses, particularly those in the renewable energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

The Freeport’s incentives, including tax reliefs and streamlined customs processes, alongside the site’s oven-ready status, provide an attractive proposition for companies looking to invest in Scotland’s industrial and economic future.

Simon McCabe, Chief Executive at Scarborough Group, said: “Scotland’s push towards a net-zero future is accelerating and, with significant renewable energy projects slated for development, the demand for high-quality, strategically-located industrial and logistics space is at an all-time high.

“Queensferry One offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses to establish a presence within the Forth Green Freeport, providing a flexible accommodation options tailored to their operational needs.”

Spanning over 120 acres, Queensferry One boasts ample room for development, offering flexibility and space for businesses to grow and innovate. With its proximity to the Forth’s deep water access points, and excellent transport links including rail and motorway connections, the site is primed for companies in the renewables and manufacturing sectors.

A Vision for the Future

The inclusion of Queensferry One in the Forth Green Freeport initiative brings a wealth of opportunities not only for businesses but also for the local community. The expected influx of investment and development is set to create significant employment opportunities, reinvigorating the local economy and fostering long-term growth.

The strategic location of Queensferry One offers businesses direct access to the vibrant energy sector in Scotland. With the ongoing development of offshore wind farms and other renewable energy projects in the North Sea, the site provides an ideal base for companies looking to capitalise on Scotland’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Simon McCabe added: “Our focus is on providing a platform where businesses can thrive in a supportive and innovative environment.

“The combination of Queensferry One’s rich history, strategic location and Freeport benefits creates a compelling case for companies seeking to relocate or expand their operations in Scotland.”

As Queensferry One continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of adaptation and growth. From its roots as a naval dockyard to its future as a linchpin in one of Scotland’s two Green Freeports, Queensferry One is set to play a pivotal role in the country’s journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future.

For more information, visit www.queensferryone.co.uk or follow Queensferry One on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

Agriculture Bill to become law

Supporting sustainable and regenerative farming and crofting

MSPs have backed legislation that will transform how the Scottish Government supports farming and food production.

The Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill will ensure the Scottish Government can help farmers and crofters to produce more food more sustainably, supporting their essential role in climate mitigation and nature restoration. It will allow for a framework of payments that is responsive to the sector’s needs.

This legislation will also drive support for rural communities, the economy, and for land management and the environment.

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Agriculture is vital to our economy. Our Vision for Agriculture sets out how the Government will support farming and food production in Scotland to become a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture. 

“The Bill provides a future framework that will help deliver this Vision, supporting farmers and crofters to meet our immediate and long-term food needs sustainably and to adapt to new opportunities and challenges. It will enable the delivery of support schemes that will ensure that agriculture continues to play its part in cutting emissions, mitigating climate change, enhancing nature and biodiversity, together with food production.

“Our food and farming sectors have a critical role to play in a sustainable, resilient food system. As we transition to a new framework of support, we will do this in a way that is just, that ensures no cliff edges in support and by taking our agricultural industry and rural communities with us.”

Cineworld Edinburgh announces Screen Day with £4 tickets

·       SCREENX DAY TO TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY JULY 6

·       TICKETS REDUCED TO £4 PER FILM, ALL DAY, ONLY IN SCREENX

·       OFFER VALID ACROSS 23 CINEMA SITES IN THE UK 

Cineworld is delighted to announce SCREENX DAY, an exclusive, one-day event featuring some of the hottest blockbusters in the cutting-edge ScreenX format. Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 6th, and prepare for an unparalleled cinematic adventure across 23 locations in the UK.

To celebrate this state-of-the-art experience, the event will give aviators and Fremens across the country a chance to experience some of their favourite blockbusters in the revolutionary format for only £4.00 a ticket.

ScreenX uses advanced technology with 270-degree projection to create panoramic viewing that surrounds you in your seat. With the film extended beyond your peripheral vision, guests are transported into their cinematic universe of choice in a world first, available only at Cineworld. 

For one day only, Cineworld is bringing back some of the biggest billers including:

  • Dune: Part Two – Enter a futuristic sci-fi world and immerse yourself in the heat of the battle for Arrakis with screens projecting an incredible desert expanse
  • Top Gun: Maverick – Catch this adventure-filled epic with footage exclusive to the ScreenX experience. Six cameras in the cockpit combine with the expanded sidewall projection to bring you along for each dynamic flying sequence like never before. Director Joseph Kosinski reveals “We weren’t able to use two of the side cameras in the [standard] film, but in ScreenX we were able to use that footage on the side screens, so what you’re seeing in ScreenX is live action footage on the side of the screens which is a first!”
  • Meg 2: The Trench – Immerse yourself in the under-sea-action of Meg 2 now in 270 degrees for the ultimate heart-racing jumpscares. With screens wrapping round your head, director Ben Wheatley notes “With ScreenX, that feeling of looking into the film that’s wrapping all around your head really amplifies a lot of the action stuff. With the Meg 2: The Trench there’s a lot of intense action that is really served well by ScreenX.”
  • Migration –The first ever animated film to be shown in ScreenX, take flight with the Mallard of ducks for this family favourite uplifting tale 

Casey Cohen, Head of Marketing at Cineworld Cinemas, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce Cineworld’s inaugural ScreenX Day! For just £4, experience a revolutionary 270° view with projections expanding onto the side walls of the auditorium.

“Whether you’re soaring with Top Gun: Maverick or adventuring with Migration, you can surround yourself and your whole family with movie magic at Cineworld on July 6th.”

Tickets for the first ever ScreenX Day can now be purchased on the Cineworld Website or the Cineworld app.

#ScreenXDay

#ExperienceScreenX

ScreenX Day 2024 is sponsored by the Royal Air Force.

Screenings to take place at the following locations: 

Ashford
Barnsley          
Basildon         
Belfast
Brighton  Castleford       
Crawley
Didsbury          
Edinburgh      
Hull     
Leeds White Rose       
London – Hounslow      
London – The O2 Greenwich   
London – Wandsworth  
Milton Keynes 
Newcastle upon Tyne  
Newport – Spytty Park  
Rushden Lakes 
Sheffield          
Speke 
Watford           
Wolverhampton           
York

Benefact Group launches new Charity Heroes Awards

Benefact Group has launched the Charity Heroes Awards 2024, a new awards programme designed to celebrate and support charities working tirelessly to make positive change.

The Awards are open to charities based in the UK and Ireland and entries are open between Monday 17 June and Friday 26 July. Winning charities will be awarded £5,000 and runners up will receive £1,000.

Charities are invited to apply online via a quick and simple form for one of six awards categories:

AwardWhat judges will be looking for…
Volunteer of the year Volunteers who have gone over and above, making positive impact for charities, dedicating their time and energy to a great cause
Climate action projectCharities which have inspired and motivated action to tackle the climate crisis
Local community initiativeA project which has reached the heart of a local community to tackle a local issue
Digital fundraising initiativeInspiring digital fundraising which has created new sources of income and motivated supporters
Small charity, big impactA small charity (with a turnover of less than £1m) that has made a big impact
Charity leader of the yearA charity CEO or other senior leader who is a role model for others by championing a cause and inspiring change 

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 28 November. An additional colleagues’ choice award will also be announced during the ceremony.

Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive of Benefact Group, says: “We are delighted to announce the launch of Benefact Group’s Charity Heroes Awards 2024. This new Awards programme celebrates and supports charities working tirelessly to make positive change. 

“Benefact Group is a family of award-winning specialist financial services companies and the third largest corporate donor to charity in the UK. Owned by a charity ourselves, charitable giving is at the heart of what we do. All of our available profits go to good causes and the more the Group grows, the more the Group can give.”

Benefact Group has donated over £200million to charitable causes since 2014 and has been recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK1. The organisation aims to reach £250million in donations by 2025.

For more information and to enter your charity for an award visit https://benefactgroup.com/awards

Charity Heroes Awards is funded by EIO plc, part of the Benefact Group.