Quarter variant flies off the shelves with Edinburgh residents
Dobbies Edinburgh has introduced a new ‘Bakery to Go’ offering for local customers, just in time for the festive rush.
The new range, which is freshly baked in-store by the expert in-house team, offers a premium selection of cakes ideal for festive hosting and gifting.
Housed in convenient to-go boxes, Dobbies is offering a curated range featuring coffee and walnut; chocolate; lemon; and the classic Victoria sponge. However, since landing in the store, it is the quarter variant, which offers all four cake varieties in one, which has proven a huge hit with customers.
Customers can pick up a box from £8.99 for a single flavour or £9.99 for a mixed variant – perfect for sharing around the Christmas table, treating the family during the festive season, or gifting a sweet surprise to loved ones.
Amy Siergiejew, Head of General Merchandise at Dobbies Garden Centre, said: “We are really excited to introduce ‘Bakery to Go’ as part of our ongoing efforts to elevate the customer experience in Edinburgh.
“This offering delivers the exceptional quality and attention to detail that Dobbies is known for, in a format that suits the busy lifestyles of our customers.
“Combining the quality and freshness our customers expect, with the added convenience of a grab-and-go format, this reflects our commitment to delivering the best possible products for our customers – and our freshly baked cakes are ideal for the festive period.”
Now available at the Edinburgh and 16 stores across the UK.
An Edinburgh school student has been named a winner in the STEM Next global essay competition organised by the Scottish charity Techfest, which encouraged students to share their ideas about the future of industries in energy, medicine, and science.
TechFest is transforming STEM education and delivering a new generation of talent. STEM Next encouraged young people across the world to consider their future in Energy in Action, Medicine & Life Sciences, and Chemistry & Biological Sciences.
The competition inspired students worldwide, with winners across a variety of categories and nations including England, Scotland and South Korea.
Martha Gavan, Deputy Managing Director of TechFest, said: “STEM Next empowers young people to explore careers in STEM, helping them chart a path towards innovation and preparing them to lead in the industries of tomorrow.”
An Edinburgh school student has been named a winner in the STEM Next global essay competition organised by the Scottish charity Techfest, which encouraged students to share their ideas about the future of industries in energy, medicine, and science.
TechFest is a charity focused on making STEM education more engaging and inclusive in schools throughout the country whilst helping to connect STEM to various sectors.
STEM Next was a solo digital project that required independent research and writing, open to students aged 16 – 18 across the world.
Participants were invited to submit an essay between 1000-3000 words that addressed one of the provided essay questions, with three categories available: Energy in Action, Medicine & Life Sciences and Chemistry & Biological Sciences.
The competition aimed to inspire students worldwide, drawing winners from London, Kent, Edinburgh, and Dwight Seoul in South Korea.
Samantha van Rooyen from Wimbledon High School, Earl Xavier Fornillos from St. Bonaventure’s RC School, and Ishan Madhok from St. Paul’s School triumphed as 1st place winners, each taking home a £200 Amazon voucher.
Martha Gavan, Deputy Managing Director of TechFest, said: “STEM Next is a challenge designed in partnership with industry and education to help shape the future workforce.
“The competition is a fantastic chance for industry to connect with brilliant young minds and discover the next generation of STEM leaders.
“Early industry relationships can ignite a passion that shapes the future problem solvers in STEM. STEM Next offers an exciting opportunity for industry leaders to connect with the next generation of innovators.”
The project enabled TechFest to make introductions that provided entrants with valuable career insights while also helping to shape their interviewing skills as part of the research requirements.
Young people who competed in the STEM Next competition are eligible for CREST Awards, providing an opportunity for students to add additional achievements to their UCAS application.
In addition to developing their researching and writing skills, STEM Next also connects young people with industry professionals to learn first-hand about their chosen industry.
STEM Next is a collaboration with various partners including: Airswift, CNOOC International, Ocean Winds and Thistle Wind Partners (TWP).
Ruth Cameron, Managed Services Director EMEA at Airswift , said: “STEM Next is shaping the skilled workforce needed to tackle future challenges. This aligns with Airswift’s goal of transforming lives through workforce solutions in STEM industries.”
Victoria Allan, Buzzard Onshore Mechanical Support Engineer at CNOOC International, said: “At CNOOC International, our focus on delivering safe and sustainable energy aligned perfectly with STEM Next, which showcased bold and practical solutions from the world’s top young thinkers this year.”
Roger McMichael, Stakeholder Manager at Ocean Winds, said: “Ocean Winds is leading the global energy transition into a greener future, and we believe STEM Next provided extraordinary insight from the fresh perspectives of young people.”
Kirsty Macaulay, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at Thistle Wind Partners, said: “At TWP, we are committed to encouraging the next generation to explore STEM subjects and have been delighted supporting TechFest’s STEM Next competition. Congratulations to all of the winners!”
TechFest is interested in increasing industry partners for this project, if you are interested in sponsorship or volunteering, please get in touch via:
POLICE have released images of two more men officers believe might be able to assist with enquiries into an incident on Tuesday, 5 November, at Captains Road, in the Gracemount area.
The first male is described as a white, between 20 and 22-years-old, 5ft 4ins tall with a slim build. He was wearing a black baggy jumper with the hood up, a black Canada Goose puffer jacket with a logo on the left arm and dark trousers.
The second male is described as a white, between 20 and 25-years-old with fair/blond hair. He was wearing a grey North Face jacket with black sleeves to the elbows, then grey from elbow to wrists, a red hoodie underneath, black Nike trousers and black Nike trainers with white soles.
Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “We are keen to talk to these males as we believe they may have information which could assist with our enquiries. The males pictured, or anyone who may recognise them, are asked to please contact us.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting Gracemount incident dated 5 November 2024. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Fifth Doctor Who, Peter Davison and Outlander actor, Graham McTavish are among the first stars to sign up for the tenth Capital Sci-Fi Con, due to take place in Edinburgh in February 2025.
The hugely popular convention, which has raised an incredible £430,634. for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) over the last decade, will take place on February 15 and 16 at the O2 Academy.
The event brings together figures and fans from the world of film and television, comic book writers and artists, traders as well as fun movie set props and attracts thousands of visitors from all over Scotland with all profits going directly to CHAS.
This will be Pete Davison’s second outing the Con, having been a guest back in 2019. Janet Fielding, who played his companion Tegan in the hit TV show, will join him at the event.
As well as Outlander, Graham McTavish is well known for starring in The Hobbit film trilogy.
Other big names to also sign up for CSFC 2025 include Tamaryn Payne, the voice actress from Baldurs Gate 3 and Star Wars Outlaws and Amy Manson from HBO sci-fi thriller The Nevers and Once Upon A Time.
Laura Campbell, Head of Community Fundraising and Retail at CHAS said, “We’re delighted to announce Peter Davison, Graham McTavish, Janet Fielding, Tamryn Payne and Amy Manson as our first fantastic guests for our special tenth anniversary Capital Sci-Fi Con in 2025.
“With the event taking place in the new year we’re encouraging people to buy tickets as Christmas gifts this year while raising funds for vulnerable children across Scotland at the same time.
“We will be announcing more guests and also some very exciting props for photo opportunities over the coming weeks so stay tuned to the Capital Sci-Fi Con website and Facebook page.”
To find out more about Capital Sci-Fi Con 2025 and buy tickets visit:
Do you want to make a positive change to the lives of learners across Edinburgh, Midlothian, and East Lothian? Do you want to help Edinburgh College to further enhance its community partnerships and stakeholder engagement in the diverse region it serves? Then come and join the Board of Management of Edinburgh College.
The Edinburgh College Board of Management currently seeks to fill three non-executive vacancies before 26 March 2025.
The Board of Management would particularly welcome applications from individuals with experience in at least one of the following areas:
(i) Education and training (across Tertiary Education, schools, and/or other training providers);
(ii) Government Relations and Public Affairs; and/or
(iii) Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs).
Successful applicants will have the ability to contribute to a dynamic board, which deals with a variety of complex and interesting issues and promotes the highest standards of governance. If appointed to the Edinburgh College Board of Management, you will be provided with appropriate induction and training designed to support you to effectively fulfil your role as a Board member.
Applications are also encouraged from groups currently under-represented on Scotland’s public bodies.
Time Commitment: During the first year of appointment, it is anticipated you may need to devote an average of 1.5 days per month.
Remuneration: All Non-Executive roles are non-remunerated. Incidental expenses will be reimbursed.
Appointment details: Appointments to the Board of Management will come into effect anytime from 24 March 2025 onwards, following approval from the Minister for Higher and Further Education.
The appointment will be for a period up to 3 years, with the possibility of re-appointment subject to evidence of effective performance and to satisfying the requirements of the person specification for the role at the time of re-appointment.
Location: Meetings of the Board will normally be held at one of the College’s four campuses: Granton, Sighthill, Milton Road and/or Midlothian.
Further Information: If you would like to find out more about the role, you are welcome to contact the Board Secretary, Marcus Walker on Tel. 0131 2979326, or by emailing: Marcus.Walker@edinburghcollege.ac.uk
Two men have been convicted of violent offences in connection with a serious assault in Gracemount in November 2021.
A 32-year-old man was assaulted outside a supermarket on Gracemount Drive around 8pm and was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
George Baigrie, 42, was found guilty of attempted murder on Wednesday, 18 December, 2024, following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh. Kevin Richardson, 24, was also convicted in connection with the incident.
Both men are due to be sentenced at a later date.
Detective Chief Inspector George Calder said: “This was a shocking attack in a public place which left a man with life-changing injuries as a result.
“We will continue to target those involved in this kind of violence as we work to make our communities safer. I would like to thank the public for their support and everyone who worked on the investigation.”
Claire is from Glasgow and has been a Senior Charge Nurse at NHS 24’s Cardonald contact centre for a year. She is working both Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Claire says: “It has been lovely to take part in the school festive traditions with the kids throughout December. I’m really looking forward to attendingthe panto on Christmas Eve as well getting involved in some carol singing.
“It’s such a magical time of the year to spend time with the family, and we have lots of quality time planned in between my shifts.
“My top tip for over festive is if you have kids, ensure you have child-friendly remedies available at home.
“Pop into your local pharmacy where they can give you advice on the most appropriate medicines for your family.”
Festive workers, including those on short-term contracts, are being urged to check their pay to make sure they aren’t missing out on the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage.
Seasonal staff and students employed over the Christmas period are legally entitled to receive at least the same minimum rates as other workers.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding all workers to check their hourly rate of pay, and to look out for unpaid working time – such as time spent cleaning and closing premises, training, or picking up extra hours.
Deductions, for things like uniforms or tools, can also reduce pay rates.
“No matter how long you’ve been employed for, you are legally entitled to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage. This includes temporary seasonal staff working in shops, hotels, garden centres, Christmas markets, restaurants and warehouses.
“Always make sure that you check your pay and look out for any deductions, or unpaid working time that could take you below the minimum wage.
“If you think you’ve been short changed, even if you no longer work for that employer, we’re here to help. Visit GOV.UK and search ‘check your pay’ to find all the information you need about wage rates, and how to report your employer if they’re not paying you correctly.”
The National Minimum Wage hourly rates are currently:
£11.44 – Age 21 and over (National Living Wage)
£8.60 – Age 18 to 20
£6.40 – Age under 18
£6.40 – Apprentice
Anyone not being paid what they are entitled to, or people concerned that someone they know may not be getting paid correctly, can report it online at https://www.gov.uk/minimum-wage-complaint. It takes around 10 minutes and reports can be made after the employment has ended.
To speak with someone, raise a concern or get further information, phone the Acas Pay and Work Rights helpline on 0300 123 1100 for confidential, free advice (Monday to Friday*, 8am to 6pm).– *Except Bank Holidays.
Employers can also access support at any time to ensure they are paying their workers correctly:
view the online employers’ guide on calculating the minimum wage
Police Scotland has released an image of three men who may be able to assist their enquiries into an assault and robbery which occurred around 7.20pm on Sunday, 17 November 2024. The incident occurred at Old Fishmarket Close, Edinburgh.
The first man is described as being Asian, around 6ft tall, stocky build with black hair. He was wearing a glasses and a padded jacket.
The second man is described as being black, around 6ft tall, stocky build with a short beard. He was wearing a grey tracksuit, light blue gilet and white trainers.
The third man is described as being black, around 6ft tall, stocky build with short black hair. He was wearing a black padded jacket, grey trousers and white trainers.
Detective Constable Gary Lipscombe said: “I would urge the men pictured or anyone who may recognise them to contact us. If you have any information about this incident, please get in touch as soon as possible.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 2986 of Sunday, 17 November 2024. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.
Additional £1.1 million for people impacted by crime
More victims of crime are to receive support through a fund financed by penalties imposed on offenders.
More than £1.1 million from the Victim Surcharge Fund (VSF) will be shared among 12 organisations that support those impacted by crime.
Child victims, rape survivors and those who have suffered domestic abuse are among those who will receive support. This can include help with essentials like food and clothing, repairs for property damaged as a result of crime, and emotional support.
More than 5,000 people have already benefitted from the VSF since it was set up in 2019 and this fifth round of payments will mean hundreds more will receive support.
Under the scheme, offenders who receive a court fine after being convicted of a crime are charged an additional penalty – the victim surcharge. This is transferred to the VSF and distributed to organisations who support victims. Including this payment round, a total of £2,446,787has been paid to 18 victim support organisations.
Victims Minister Siobhian Brown said: “The impact of crime on victims can be devastating – it can cause financial hardship, damage to property and ongoing trauma, and it is absolutely right that offenders should pay to support victims to recover.
“The Victim Surcharge Fund has already benefitted more than 5,000 victims and hundreds more will be supported with the distribution of more than £1.1 million in this latest round of payments.
“The Victim Surcharge Fund builds on the Scottish Government’s wider support for victims. We have invested £93 million to support victims in the past five years, while taking a series of other actions to ensure victims are placed at the heart of the justice system.
“This includes a significant package of reform proposed in the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill to ensure victims are treated with compassion and their voices are heard.”
Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland, said: “This funding will be instrumental in expanding access to our Emergency Assistance Fund (EAF) to as many people impacted by crime as possible, helping them to rebuild their lives.
“So far, we have supported thousands of people through the EAF, providing critical help to people who are in urgent need of financial aid – providing funding for things like emergency housing, security equipment, clothing and groceries.
“With this new funding, we have the chance to reach even more people who have been affected by crime and explore options to develop our offering, including supporting access to mental health services. This funding will also benefit those supported by many of our specialist partner organisations, like Action Against Stalking and ASSIST.”
Dot Horne, Director of 6VT Edinburgh City Youth Café, which supports young victims of crime through their Cairn service, said: “We are delighted to be successful recipients from this round of the Victim Surcharge Fund. This funding will allow us to respond quickly to the immediate, practical needs of children and young people affected by crime.
“Additionally, it provides an opportunity to offer financial support for victims to access positive activities that can help ease the difficult times that young people may be facing.”
The following organisations will benefit from the Victim Surcharge Fund in this round:
Victim Support Scotland £850,000
Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire £31,800
Migrant Help £73,985
Dunbarton District Women’s Aid £13,500
The Moira Fund £14,500
Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland) £27,465
Jubilee House £10,000
Dundee Women’s Hub (Women’s Rape And Sexual Abuse Centre) £10,000
