Month: June 2024

The Royal Scots commemorate fallen comrades from the Far-East Conflict

80th Anniversary of the Battle of Kohima

At 10:30 on Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots Regimental Association will lay wreaths and conduct a memorial service at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh (EH4 6AD), to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Kohima and the Regiment’s role in one of the defining battles of the Second World War.

Regimental records show that between 4 April and 22 June 1944 1st Battalion The Royal Scots lost a total of 89 men – their names will be read out during the ceremony.  A further 200 were wounded, many seriously, in the intense fighting around Kohima.  

The Battle of Kohima was one of the most bitterly fought battles of the Second World War and a pivotal moment in the war against Japan in the Far East.  

The success of the British 2nd Division (including theRoyal Scots) and the Indian 5th Division ensured the safety of British India and turned the tide against Japanese forces in South East Asia.

On Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots contingent will form up in the Lauriston Castle car park at 10:30 and will march the short distance to the Royal Scots Memorial Garden behind a piper and their Association Standards.

All others are welcome to congregate at the Garden.  The service will commence at 10:50 and will be conducted by Reverend Ian May, the Padre of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.  

The wreath laying will be led by Brigadier George Lowder, President of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.

Malcolm Warrack, son of Lt Col Morren Warrack who fought at Kohima with the regiment, said: “A group of Royal Scots Veterans felt very strongly about the lack of some form of local memorial specifically for their fellow soldiers who did not come back from the Burma Campaign and Kohima in particular.

“George Rogers, Ian Henderson and Morren Warrack co-ordinated the preparation and creation of this Memorial Garden in the 1990s.  

“They spoke often about the “Forgotten Army” in the Far East so it is particularly fitting that 80 years later on 29th June 2024 we remember them.”

Brigadier Lowder added: “The Royal Scots feel very strongly that we should mark the battle of Kohima which witnessed some of the fiercest fighting of the war.

“Some Royal Scots who took part in crucial battles to delay the German advance to Dunkirk in May 1940 subsequently found themselves in the Far East where the war continued for a further 3 months after victory in Europe was declared in May 1945.  Many made the ultimate sacrifice; we will remember them.”

Local Charities to benefit from Morrisons’ £1 Million Community Fund

In celebration of Morrisons 125th Anniversary, the Morrisons Foundation is delighted to launch the ‘Community Spaces Fund’.

The fund will see 125 charities receive a share of £1 million with grants of up to £8,000 each to enhance community spaces and local facilities, helping them to make a difference for many more years to come.

To benefit from the fund, charities need to be recommended by one of the supermarket’s Community Champions.  Each Morrisons store has a Community Champion whose role it is to support local good causes that are close to customers’ hearts. 

Until the 13th July Community Champions will be looking for suitable charities to be considered for support from the fund.

Tess, Community Champion at Edinburgh Gyle said: “The Community Spaces Fund is a great opportunity for local charities to bid for funding that could improve our community. 

“There are lots of community spaces and facilities that would benefit from this funding boost. It will be a difficult choice to make, but I’m excited about the positive impact this fund will make.”

Recommended charities will be invited by their local Morrisons Community Champion to submit an application by 14th July, with the £1 million given away to the final 125 successful applicants being held at the end of August.

David Scott, Morrisons Foundation Trustee said: “Morrisons has always sought to give back to the communities it serves. So it’s fitting that as Morrisons celebrates 125 years, the Morrisons Foundation is launching this special fund which will improve community spaces and local facilities up and down the country.”

The Morrisons Foundation was set up by Morrisons supermarket in 2015 and awards grants for charity projects which help improve people’s lives.  Since launching, over £41 million has been donated to hundreds of charities across England, Scotland and Wales.

Circular Economy Bill passed

New powers to increase reuse and recycling rates

Legislation giving Ministers and local authorities the tools needed to increase reuse and recycling rates, as well as modernise and improve waste and recycling services, has been passed.

The Circular Economy Bill will give Ministers the powers to:

  • set local recycling targets, building on the experience of Wales, which has the best recycling rate in the UK
  • set statutory targets for delivery of a circular economy to measure progress in transforming the economy
  • restrict the disposal of unsold consumer goods, to prevent good products ending up in landfill
  • place charges on single-use items like disposable cups to encourage the move to reusable alternatives
  • give local authorities additional enforcement powers, allowing them to crack down on flytipping and littering from cars.

The measures will be underpinned by support and investment, building on the investments already made through the £70 million Recycling Improvement Fund.

Minister for Climate Action Gillian Martin said: “There are huge opportunities in having an economy which makes reuse and recycling the default choice for Scottish households, businesses and the public sector.

“We have already seen businesses creating jobs by turning what we might otherwise throw away into valuable new products and services.

“The measures in the Circular Economy Bill will give local Councils and the Scottish Government the powers needed to support the sustainable use of resources and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

“For people to do the right thing for the planet, it is crucial that everyone experiences a modern, easy to use waste service.

“We will continue to work with local authorities and householders to co-design how these powers are implemented to take account of different circumstances and needs on our journey towards a truly circular economy.”

Have you seen Michael?

POLICE are appealing for the assistance of the public in sharing our appeal and tracing 79-year-old Michael Connolly who is missing from Seton Sands Holiday Park.

Michael, who is from Lochore, was last seen at the park around 6pm last night (Wednesday, 26 June, 2024).

He is described as around 5ft 8ins in height and of slim build with grey hair which is balding and stubble. When he was last seen he was wearing a blue jumper and blue t-shirt with black trousers and walking shoes.

Inspector Kenny McKenzie said: “We are extremely concerned for Michael’s safety and wellbeing.

“Searches and enquiries are ongoing to trace him as soon as possible to ensure that he is safe and well.

“I would urge anyone who has seen him or has any information regarding his whereabouts to contact us as soon as possible on 101 quoting reference number 3275 of 26 June.”

Regulator intervenes to strengthen governance at international aid charity

Penny Appeal has been subject to extensive regulatory scrutiny resulting in an Official Warning

The Charity Commission has closed its regulatory compliance case into Penny Appeal, and set out its findings and ongoing expectations of the charity’s trustees.

Penny Appeal was set up in 2008 to provide poverty relief, emergency aid and healthcare across Asia and Africa. The charity also works in the UK to help homeless people and women who have experienced domestic abuse.   

The Charity Commission opened a compliance case into Penny Appeal in June 2020 following several complaints and concerns raised about how the charity was being managed. Concerns included failure to manage perceived conflicts of interest, poor record keeping and inadequate management of major supplier contracts. 

The Charity Commission has reviewed evidence supplied by the charity’s trustees and is satisfied that progress has been made to improve the charity’s governance and management. However, it has been made clear to the charity’s trustees that there is still further work to do.  

The Commission’s announcement follows last week’s publication by the Fundraising Regulator, which detailed findings of its investigation into Penny Appeal’s compliance with the Fundraising Code of Practice.

Earlier this year, the Information Commissioner’s Office issued the charity with an Enforcement Order over its marketing activities.

The Charity Commission has now closed its case, setting out its expectation that the charity’s trustees act upon recommendations by all three bodies. 

Official Warning  

The Charity Commission issued an Official Warning on 29 September 2023 after several meetings with the charity’s trustees and an inspection of the charity’s records and financial accounts. It found that the charity failed to maintain proper trustee meeting minutes to record decisions in relation to the purchase of a property, consideration of an unsolicited offer received to buy a property as well as decisions around retaining and redeveloping a property.

The charity failed to review a contract with its major supplier, thereby failing to act in the charity’s best interests. The regulator also found that the charity had failed to manage a perceived conflict of interest relating to its relationship with its major supplier.  

Impact of regulatory intervention 

Through its intervention, the regulator has secured several improvements to the charity’s governance. This includes advising the trustees to appoint a minute taker and to record conflicts of interest, which they have evidenced. The trustees have set dates to review third party contracts, and have appointed an external consultant to review the charity’s existing contracts and advise it on best practice. The charity will also terminate its contract with the major supplier that caused a perceived conflict of interest. 

The trustees have mainly complied with the actions required of them and the Commission notes and welcomes their commitment to complete the outstanding actions promptly. 

The trustees have been advised to make further improvements to the quality of meeting minutes. They must also promptly complete an outstanding review of governance and contractual relationships and arrangements with third party organisations established overseas, which forms part of an internal action plan set by the charity’s solicitors.   

The Commission has now closed its compliance case and is monitoring the charity’s progress. It has informed the charity that any failure to complete the outstanding actions or failure to comply with any action required by the Information Commissioner’s Office and/or the Fundraising Regulator may also result in further regulatory action. 

Tracy Howarth, Assistant Director for Casework at the Charity Commission, said: “Improvements have been made at Penny Appeal after several years of engagement about a series of weaknesses and shortcomings in the charity’s governance.  

“This is a charity which receives significant support and donations from the public – it is extremely important that its governance is fit for purpose.  

“The actions already taken have strengthened how the charity is run, and we are following up on the outstanding actions, which the trustees have assured us will be promptly addressed.”

How to get a good night’s sleep

WHY SLEEP MATTERS

GETTING regular sleep can be the key to having stronger bones and healthier joints, a leading expert has said. 

Dr Taher Mahmud, a consultant rheumatologist at the London Osteoporosis Clinic, says people often underestimate the importance of sleep in maintaining bone health. 

He said: “I treat hundreds of patients each year suffering with bone or joint issues, and there is always one area they commonly overlook – sleep. Many of us sacrifice sleep in favour of productivity, but the truth is that getting enough rest can profoundly affect our overall well-being. 

“While many people focus on diet and exercise as part of their health routine, sleep is equally crucial, and it plays a pivotal role in maintaining physical and mental well-being.

“It also plays a critical role in factors as wide ranging as a healthy immune system to weight loss. 

“Quality sleep is not just beneficial—it’s essential for those managing conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis and plays a significant role in their prevention.” 

Six health benefits of sleep

  1. Enhanced Cognitive Function

One of the most important benefits of sleep is its impact on cognitive function. When you sleep, your brain consolidates memories and processes information from the day. This leads to improved learning, problem-solving skills, and overall mental clarity. Without enough sleep, your cognitive abilities can become impaired, affecting your performance at work or school.

  1. Boosted Immune System

Sleep plays a vital role in supporting your immune system. During sleep, your body produces cytokines, a type of protein that helps fight infection and inflammation. Getting enough rest can help your body defend against illnesses such as the common cold and flu. On the other hand, chronic sleep deprivation can weaken your immune response, making you more susceptible to getting sick.

  1. Weight Management

Believe it or not, sleep also plays a role in weight management. Lack of sleep can disrupt the balance of hormones that control appetite, leading to increased cravings for unhealthy foods. Additionally, sleep deprivation can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight. By prioritising sleep, you can support your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

  1. Emotional well-being

Sleep has a significant impact on emotional well-being. When you are well-rested, you are better equipped to handle stress and regulate your emotions. On the other hand, sleep deprivation can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. Getting enough rest can improve your mood, increase your resilience to stress, and enhance your overall emotional health.

  1. Combating Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, characterised by weakened bones, can be influenced by sleep patterns. Poor sleep quality and duration can increase cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can negatively impact bone density. Additionally, insufficient sleep can impair the body’s ability to repair and build bone tissue, exacerbating the risk of fractures.

  1. Helping to manage the pain of arthritis 

Sleep is crucial for managing pain and inflammation for those with arthritis. Poor sleep can heighten the perception of pain and lower pain thresholds, making arthritis symptoms more severe. Moreover, a lack of restorative sleep can lead to increased fatigue, reducing the ability to manage daily activities effectively.

Practical Tips for Better Sleep

We all know sleep is important, but for many the problem is how to get better sleep. But instead of worrying about a lack of sleep, Dr Mahmud has practical tips for better sleep which can be incorporated into a daily routine. 

  1. Establish a Routine. A sleep schedule, even on weekends, can help regulate your internal clock allowing you a structured sleep and making sleep a habit to which your body responds. 
  2.  Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment. Light is the most important factor affecting sleep. It plays a central role in regulating circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. It is also worth investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows. 
  3. Limit screen time. The blue light emitted from electronic devices suppresses the body’s release of melatonin, the hormone which makes us feel drowsy. For better sleep, avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
  4. Mind Your Diet: Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime. Even six hours before you go to bed, caffeine can have a negative impact on your sleep.
  5. Consciously wind down: Winding down before you get into bed can help you sleep and help you avoid tossing and turning as you try to drift off.  Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed.

Garden Centre invites families to enjoy a Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre, is inviting families to roll out the picnic blanket and gather around this summer as it unveils its brand-new event at the Edinburgh store, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, where children get to make their very own teddy bear keepsake to take home.

This interactive 90-minute session, taking place during the summer holidays, is designed for families with children aged 3-10 years old and is taking place in the afternoon on Saturday 27 July, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 August at the Edinburgh store. Families with younger children can also get involved and enjoy the picnic experience.

Dobbies’ Teddy Bears’ Picnic allows kids to have a go at building their very own teddy bear to take home. Children will get the opportunity to stuff, fluff and name a teddy bear of their choice, with a teddy birth certificate to mark the occasion. 

Dobbies’ colleagues at the Edinburgh store will uncover tales of bear adventures at the storytelling corner, gathering everyone around for a group reading, and host a variety of games and activities inspired by teddy.

Kids will also get to tuck into their own picnic box that comes with the choice of a cheese, ham or tuna sandwich, a drink and selection of snacks. Adults can enjoy cake and a hot drink as part of the experience.

Sarah Murray at Dobbies developed this event and is looking forward to welcoming children of all ages along to the Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the Edinburgh store.

She said: “This brand-new event is a great opportunity for kids to come together and experience the wonderful joy that comes with making their very own teddy bear to take home. Children will also enjoy a picnic experience, filled with food, fun and storytelling.

“We’re encouraging families cosy up and get comfy by bringing their own picnic blankets, beach towel or cushions.”

Tickets are priced at £15.99 for over 3s and £7.99 for under 3s, adult tickets are priced at £7.40. Creating your own teddy bear is only suitable for children over three years old, and under 3s are encouraged to bring their own favourite teddy.

For more information on Dobbies’ Teddy Bears’ Picnic, visit:  

www.dobbies.com/events.    

Adidas to open first UK pulse store at Fort Kinnaird this Friday

Popular sports brand, adidas, is set to open its doors at Fort Kinnaird this Friday (28th June).

The new 11,000 sq ft store, located near to TK Maxx, Hotel Chocolate and Pandora, is the brand’s first ‘The Pulse’ store in the UK, giving visitors the chance to shop a broad range of adidas’ most popular products.

This includes everything from trainers and gym wear to running gear and accessories. The new Pulse store reflects commercial demand and consumer need. From uplifting design treatments to digital content, Pulse sets a new benchmark across the adidas retail store landscape without compromising on the well sought after product our consumers love.

The grand opening of our new store promises to be a memorable experience, with a lively atmosphere featuring a DJ to entertain shoppers. Consumers can enjoy branded snacks and receive branded bags upon purchase while having the chance to win exciting prizes and gift vouchers.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s incredibly exciting that adidas has chosen Fort Kinnaird as the first location in the UK to open its new Pulse store.

“It’s no secret how popular the brand is and we have no doubt the store will prove to be successful with our shoppers – whether they’re looking for a pair of new trainers or getting some of the latest gym wear.

“It’s a really exciting time for us, with Mango also opening recently, our different options for fashion are really growing.”

adidas will join Next, Pandora, H&M and JD Sports already based at the centre. To plan your day out and find the full list of stores and restaurants at Fort Kinnaird, please visit www.fortkinnaird.com  

Market stall returns to Lauriston Farm

THURSDAY 27th JUNE from 4.30 – 6pm

The Market Stall is back and even better for 2024, starting tomorrow – Thursday 27th June – from 4:30-6pm at the community entrance behind the Toby Carvery car park.

As well as fresh veg picked straight from the Market Garden, we will have even more #NorthEdinburgh produce on offer …

Progressing post-school reform

A consultation on simplifying funding for universities, colleges and apprenticeships, as well as student support, has opened for views.

Currently, funding is provided by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS), and the Scottish Funding Council (SFC).

In December, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Graeme Dey, announced this will be streamlined to help enhance support for young people as part of the ongoing reform programme across the sector.

Yesterday, two options for change were set out:

  • one would see all student support funding delivered through SAAS, including responsibility for further education student support which is currently with colleges and SFC. Responsibility for national training programmes, including apprenticeships, would move to SFC and away from SDS.
  • the other option would see the SFC become the single funding body responsible for student support funding, as well as funding for all national training programmes, including apprenticeships – effectively creating a single funding body for post-school education, research and skills

Work will now be taken forward in consultation with the bodies affected and wider stakeholders, with changes expected for the 2026-27 academic year.

Mr Dey said: “More than £3 billion a year is invested across Scotland’s post-school system. This enables around 500,000 people in any given year to pursue opportunities at colleges and universities, with free tuition benefiting 120,000 students.

“Over the past decade the funding system has become increasingly fragmented with multiple bodies involved in different aspects of provision.

“We are facing the most challenging public spending climate since devolution, and it is vital that investment delivers the greatest impact to support learners. To do that, we must reduce complexities and the options being set out today are an important step towards this.”