Day: March 17, 2025

Travel back in time to The World of King James VI and I at the National Galleries of Scotland this Spring

The World of King James VI and I

National Galleries Scotland: Portrait

26 April – 14 September 2025

Tickets £4 – £9 | Friends go free

The World of King James VI and I | National Galleries of Scotland

A special, one-off exhibition at the Portrait gallery in Edinburgh will chart the remarkable reign of King James VI and I, marking the 400-year anniversary of his death. Explore over 140 rare objects, many displayed together for the first time. Tickets are on sale now.

The World of King James VI and I will take visitors on afascinating journey through the complex lifeof a king who changed the shape of the United Kingdom. From 26 April until 14 September 2025, uncover more about this often-misunderstood monarch through ornate paintings, dazzling jewels, lavish textiles, and rare book and manuscripts, alongside some of the most iconic historical portraits from Scotland’s national collection.

This will be the first time in 50 years that an exhibition dedicated to King James VI and I will be held in Edinburgh and it will be the only opportunity to see The World of King James VI and I anywhere in the world.

The exhibition will also feature several important loans from a range of galleries and private collections from across the UK, including National Museums Scotland, The Royal Collection Trust, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Fashion Museum Bath. This will include a variety of books, prints, clothing, jewellery, and objects, creating an immersive journey through King James’s world.   

Discover tales of friendship, family, feuds and ambition and dive deeper into the life of King James through key moments in his reign including his early childhood, the infamous Scottish witch trials, the Union of the Crowns, the treasonous Gunpowder Plot and early colonial ventures overseas.

This exhibition will not only bring King James’s story to life, but it will transport visitors into the world in which he lived and ruled, celebrating craft, visual arts, literature and performance from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Son of Mary, Queen of Scots, successor to Elizabeth I and the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England and Ireland, King James was born in Edinburgh Castle on 19 June 1566 during one of the most turbulent periods in Scottish history.

Following his mother’s forced abdication in 1567, James was crowned king of Scotland at just 13 months old. Religious reform and noble power struggles dominated his early reign, however his accession to the English throne in 1603 saw him become the uniter of kingdoms.

The World of King James VI and I will offer new perspectives on the King’s life by drawing on themes of contemporary relevance including national identity, queer histories and spirituality and belief.

Meet some of the most famous faces of the period through key artworks from Scotland’s national collection. Uncover more about his family ties and his closest confidants, and see striking portraits of Mary, Queen of Scots, his wife and Queen Consort, Anna of Denmark, and his father, Henry, Lord Darnley.

Accompany James as he grows from an orphaned boy king to established ruler of nations through a range of portraits and objects which document his life, loves and achievements.

The exhibition will give visitors the rare opportunity to view objects that were owned, or associated with King James, including books from his library and gifts he presented to his favourites, such as an intricate silver watch and a 17th-century penknife believed to have belonged to his son, Prince Henry Frederick. Skillfully hand-painted manuscripts by the Edinburgh-based writer and artist Esther Inglis, which were dedicated to the king and members of the court, will also be on display for the first time.

Embrace the pageantry and ceremony of the Jacobean court through sumptuous dress, jewellery, objects and designs from the 16th and 17th centuries. Come up close to original textiles, including a beautifully constructed ladies’ waistcoat on loan from the Fashion Museum in Bath. Embroidered with delicate flowers and adorned with ribbon fasteners, this stunning example of courtly fashion brings to life the lavish outfits depicted in the portraits on display.

The impressive Eglington Jewel (1610), on loan from The Fitzwilliam Museum, will also feature in the exhibition alongside related artworks. A rare surviving example of work by Edinburgh jeweller George Heriot, it comprises of a miniature portrait of Anna of Denmark enclosed in a crimson enamel case and adorned with the Queen’s initials set in diamonds beneath an imperial crown.

Visitors will be given the unique opportunity to view this exquisite jewel alongside a portrait of Lady Anne Livingstone, Countess of Eglinton (1612) in which she can be seen wearing the jewel.

Delve into the belief system in Scotland during a time where spirituality, healing and folklore were entwined with strict religious views. The World of King James VI and I will include an early example of the revolutionary King James Bible, on loan from the National Library of Scotland.

The King ordered a new translation of the Bible in 1604, with the version on display dating to 1611. Along with his deeply religious beliefs James was very superstitious and fixated on the occult, particularly the perceived practice of witchcraft.

His beliefs lead him to become instrumental in the origins of the Scottish witch trials. Amongst a variety of objects related to witchcraft will be an original copy of Daemonologie (1597), also from the National Library of Scotland.

This book was written by King James himself and documented the evils of Satan and the covens of witches who acted on his behalf. Daemonologie would go on to set a standard for identifying and persecuting thousands of people, mostly women, as witches, causing lasting notoriety to King James’s legacy.

Travel across the seas to explore James and his government’s reach into North America and East Asia in the 17th century as the exhibition uncovers Jacobean trading ventures and early colonisation projects.

The establishment of the first British colony on North American soil took place under James’s reign. In May 1607 the king granted a warrant to The Virginia Company and The Virginia Colony was founded on the indigenous lands of the Powhatan people called Tsenacommacah.

The colony base was named ‘Jamestown’ in the King’s honour. These colonial projects and settlements lead to the displacement and objectification of many indigenous peoples. Artworks and objects on display will include a print of the Powhatan woman Pocahontas, loaned by The British Museum.

Taken captive by the English colonists when hostilities between the Powhatans and the settlers escalated into conflict, Pocahontas was converted to Christianity and married to an English tobacco merchant John Rolfe. Pocahontas and Rolfe travelled from Virginia to England in 1617.

The print shows Pocahontas aged 21, dressed in Jacobean fashions, which she may have worn when she was presented at court to King James and Queen Anna. Pocahontas died in England and is buried in the cemetery of St George’s Church in Gravesend, Kent.

Experience the great loves and relationships that influenced King James’s time as monarch, from his marriage to Anna of Denmark, to his role as a father to Prince Henry Frederick, Princess Elizabeth and the future King Charles I.

The exhibition will also shed light on the King’s own identity and his role within contemporary queer culture, through exploring his relationships with his court favourites.

Personal letters and portraits will spotlight King James’s inner circle and favoured courtiers, including George Villers, 1st Duke of Buckingham and Robert Kerr, 1st Earl of Somerset, with whom he established close, intimate relationships and who harnessed great influence over his reign.

Thanks to a collaborative research project funded by The University of Edinburgh visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to be immersed in the sounds, sights and even the smell of King James’s world.

In collaboration with Dr Catriona Murray (The University of Edinburgh) and the historic scent designer Clara Weale, a bespoke scent has been created especially for The World of King James VI and I. Inspired by a 17th-century apothecary list, also on display, this unique aspect of the exhibition will allow visitors to experience the scent of the Jacobean court.

Kate Anderson, Senior Curator of Portraiture at the National Galleries of Scotland said: ‘We’re so excited to bring the world of King James VI & I to life for our visitors.

“The wide range of material in the exhibition comes together to illustrate the visually and materially rich world that the King lived in. The artworks and objects on display give us the unique opportunity to delve into King James’s life and reign and uncover the people, places and events that shaped him.

“From impressive portraits to tiny jewels and exquisite embroidered textiles, the exhibition also gives visitors insight into the highly skilled work produced by the artists and craftspeople who were working in Scotland and England in the Jacobean period.’

The World of King James VI and I at the Portrait gallery will be a unique exhibition experience, painting famous historical figures in a new light and connecting the people of the past with the people of today.

The exhibition is yours to discover at National Galleries Scotland: Portrait from Saturday 26 April 2025. 

Tickets on sale now.

National walking challenge is returning for Spring

  • Step up for better health this spring
  • How one participant found motivation through movement

A NATIONAL walking challenge is returning this spring, inspiring people across Scotland to improve their wellbeing by increasing their daily step count.

The spring Step Count Challenge, led by walking charity Paths for All, runs from Monday, 5th May to Sunday, 29th June, offering a fun and social way for teams to stay active during the working day.

Past participants have reported benefits including improved mental health, stronger social connections, and increased daily movement – many return year after year to take on the challenge.

For Fiona, from team Strideclyders For Life, the Step Count Challenge has become a workplace tradition. Having taken part in five challenges, she was recognised as a runner-up in the 2024 autumn Step Count Champion competition by Paths for All, with colleagues nominating her for her commitment and motivation.

“My job is mostly desk-based, so I have to motivate myself to get outside—whether it’s a pre-work walk, a lunchtime stroll, or even just climbing the leaderboard. Having teammates makes all the difference, especially in the winter months,” said Fiona, who works in the Alumni and Development Department at the University of Strathclyde.

“My favourite type of walk is a brisk one along the beach. I’m from Kinross-shire, so some of my top spots are St Andrews, Aberdour, and the East Neuk of Fife, though I’ve also enjoyed some stunning beach walks on the west coast.”

Fiona has encouraged dozens of colleagues to get involved, particularly new team members, helping them connect while staying active. A highlight for her was creating a video for the team’s Instagram (@unistrathclydealumni), featuring their favourite walking routes.

The Step Count Challenge invites teams of five—including workplaces, friends, and families—to log their steps and engage in friendly competition while working towards personal and team goals.

The challenge offers more than just physical activity—it supports workplace wellness by reducing stress, improving productivity, and promoting safer, cleaner, and greener work environments through reduced carbon emissions and decreased car use.

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer at Paths for All, highlights the benefits of taking part: “Walking is one of the most accessible ways to improve both physical and mental health. Fiona’s story is a perfect example of how small, daily changes can have a big impact.

“The challenge is a fantastic way to build healthy habits, reduce stress, and support Scotland’s journey towards a greener, healthier future.”

To encourage participation, an early bird discount is available until Monday, 31st March. Teams can sign up for £48 instead of £60 by using the voucher code SPRING25 at checkout.

Paths for All, which works with the Scottish Government and partner organisations , is committed to promoting walking as the default choice for short journeys and supporting local authorities in creating inclusive, active environments.

More information and registration details for the Spring Step Count Challenge can be found at www.stepcount.org.uk.

SEPA launches new flood maps

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have unveiled new surface water flood maps, which for the first time include small watercourses. This new level of detail provides Scotland with the most detailed and accurate picture of where flooding could occur from heavy rainfall.  

Flooding is Scotland’s biggest climate adaption challenge, and these maps mark a major step forward in helping communities and businesses understand the flood risk in an area, and what the impacts could be when surface water flooding happens, to help protect lives, properties and communities.  

The maps, developed with JBA Consulting, provide comprehensive coverage across Scotland, with the most accurate detail to date, utilising the latest science, data and information on climate change. By integrating the latest rainfall data and climate change projections they reflect more accurately the areas likely to be affected by surface water during heavy rainfall. SEPA have also worked collaboratively with local authorities and other partners to incorporate local knowledge throughout the production and review of the maps.  

Vincent Fitzsimons, Head of Hydrology and Flooding Services, SEPA said: “Surface water flooding is Scotland’s most widespread flood risk, and climate change is making it more severe.

“These new maps are a game-changer in how we understand and prepare for flooding both now and in the future. Our enhanced, data-driven and collaborative approach ensures that flood risk is clearly understood, enabling proactive measures that help safeguard lives, property and builds community resilience. 

“Protecting Scotland’s communities is at the heart of what we do at SEPA. These updated flood maps are a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide individuals, businesses, and local authorities clearer, more detailed, and more accurate information about where flooding could occur which allows them to prepare for and respond when flooding happens.” 

People and communities suffer the most during floods, and the effects can be severe and last a long time for those who have been impacted. Surface water remains the biggest risk of flooding in Scotland and can affect anyone.

Understanding how you can be affected by flooding is the first step in being prepared. The new surface water and small watercourses flood maps can be accessed on SEPA’s website via sepa.scot/flooding, where users can also find out how they may be exposed to flooding from rivers and the sea.

From the East to Edinburgh: concerts and more from the Aga Khan Music Programme at the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival

The Aga Khan Music Programme (AKMP), one of the most extensive music preservation and education programmes in the world, and the Edinburgh International Festival will collaborate once again in 2025, presenting an inspiring programme that brings together fresh perspectives on devotional Quranic recitation; a groundbreaking melding of visual art, music, movement and improvisation; and a pioneering collaboration between Asian, Middle Eastern and European musicians. 
 
Following its hugely popular series of concerts at the festival last year, audiences in Edinburgh once again have the rare opportunity to hear first-hand from some of the best musicians in the world. 
 
The trio of distinctive performances reflect the fundamental cultural aims described by His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV: ‘To transcend old boundaries of time and place, reminding the world that every individual can respond to art and music, whether it emanates from a different culture or not. For, after all, art is a matter of humanity, just as much as it is a matter of identity.’ 
 
Tanzanian singer and composer Yahya Hussein Abdallah, winner of the 2022 Aga Khan Music Award, and Tunisian-born viola d’amore player Jasser Haj Youssef together weave a rich tapestry of meditative music with Sufi poetry and Eastern literature exploring faith, belief and spirituality. Inspired by the historic meeting between two legendary figures of the Arab musical tradition – Sheikh Mohammad Omran and the violinist Abdo Dagher – this interpretation offers listeners both a devotional experience and a healing ritual (19th August, The Hub). 
 
Visual artist Tazeen Qayyum, accompanied by Aga Khan Master Musicians Feras Charestan (qanun) and Basel Rajoub (saxophone, duclar and percussion), presents a unique live performance titled بھی “here and now”. Tazeen Qayyum creates an intricate calligraphic drawing in real time, inspired by the expressive power of Urdu, Arabic and Farsi, with musical accompaniment blending Middle Eastern rhythms and jazz. This contemplative performance – which acts as a counterforce to the tragedies of our times – invites audiences to slow down, observe and reflect to find a state of harmony and mindfulness (21st August, The Hub). 
 
Ancient traditions meet musical innovation as the Aga Khan Master Musicians join forces with two European musical visionaries, accordionist and vocalist Vincent Peirani and cellist Vincent Ségal. The Aga Khan Master Musicians – a collective of exceptional performers immersed in their individual traditions – include pipa pioneer and International Festival favourite Wu Man, Syrian-born saxophonist Basel Rajoub, qanun master Feras Charestan, and Turkish oud player Yurdal Tokan. This vibrant fusion of ideas and cultures promises a rich blend of sounds and traditions (22nd August, The Hub). 
 
Fairouz Nishanova, Director of the Aga Khan Music Programme, said: “We are delighted to continue and extend our deep-rooted partnership with the Edinburgh International Festival, a rich relationship that is based on our shared values of connecting global audiences through the power of music, and thereby fostering cross-cultural understanding and broad social cohesion.

“We are particularly excited this year to be working with the Festival’s Discovery and Participation team, broadening our reach into Edinburgh’s own local communities and demonstrating our core values of education and enrichment.” 

The AKMP and EIF’s Discovery and Participation team will join together for two significant projects during the 2025 Festival. A Culture Club, devised jointly by EIF and participants from the Edinburgh neighbourhood of Broomhouse, will welcome AKMP artists to the district for a performance, a shared meal and a conversation.

In addition, young musicians aged 8 to 18 who hold one of the Festival’s Young Musician’s Passes will be invited to talk and improvise informally to AKMP musicians and discover more about their traditions and their instruments following the performance on 22 August. Both of these projects encourage direct connections between visiting performers and members of the Edinburgh community, and embody the values of education and connection shared strongly by both organisations. 
 
Since its founding in 2000, the Aga Khan Music Programme, part of the wider Aga Khan Development Network, exists to champion and preserve the diverse musical traditions in regions where Muslims have a significant presence, including Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia and East Africa.  
 
As well as bringing exceptional musicians to a global stage, the Music Programme also works within a network of schools and development centres to pass the baton to the next generation of young musicians learning the often ancient musical heritage of their community. The Music Programme is also the home of the Aga Khan Music Awards, founded by His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV in 2018 to recognise exceptional creativity, promise and enterprise in music across the world.  

Nicola Benedetti, Edinburgh International Festival Festival Director said: “The Edinburgh International Festival is thrilled to welcome back the Aga Khan Music Programme, whose extraordinary musicians bring a rich tapestry of traditions to our stage.

“Their performances not only celebrate musical excellence but also foster cross-cultural dialogue, aligning perfectly with this year’s International Festival theme, The Truth We Seek. We can’t wait for audiences to experience these powerful and transformative performances in The Hub this August.” 

Listings

19th August 2025, The Hub – Yahya Hussein Abdallah & Jasser Haj Youssef

21st August 2025, The Hub – Canvas of Sound with Tazeen Qayyum

22nd August 2025, The Hub – Master Musicians with Peirani and Segal.

Tickets for all three concerts go on sale on Thursday 27th March at www.eif.co.uk 

Appeal to trace missing Edinburgh man last seen in Dunkeld

Police have released an image of a 47-year-old man reported missing from Edinburgh and ask for the help of the public in tracing him.

Coen Bust was last seen getting off a train at Dunkeld Train Station at 10.18am on Thursday, 13 March, 2025. He had left Edinburgh Waverley Station at 8.30am.

He is described as of heavy build with a long, greying beard.

He was last seen wearing a mustard-coloured jacket and carrying a large rucksack and a red/orange metal water bottle.

Inspector Alison Lawrie, Drylaw Police Station, said: “We want to trace Coen Bust as quickly as possible and I would ask anyone with any information to please contact Police Scotland.

“I am also appealing directly to Mr Bust himself to get in touch with the police.”

If you can help, please call Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 2616 of Thursday, 13 March, 2025.

Community Councils: Let’s Try Again!

NEW DATES FOR NOMINATIONS RE-RUN

The city council’s Governance Team has announced that the date for the second call for nominations for community councils who received insufficient elected member nominations has been amended.

Nominations will now open on 27 March 2025 and will close at 4pm on 17 April 2025. This is to avoid the nomination period being open over 2 public holidays and to ensure officers are available to support candidates with any enquiries.

The formal notice will be published on the Council’s website in due course.

The 8 community councils who did not receive sufficient valid nominations to establish were:

• Craigmillar

• Davidson’s Mains and Silverknowes

• Firrhill

• Hutchison / Chesser

• Muirhouse/ Salvesen

• Old Town

• Portobello

• West Pilton/ West Granton.

The new dates have been updated on our CC webpages.

Messi set to land in Edinburgh! 

  • A lucky Scot could score a signed Messi bottle and be in with the chance of scoring the ultimate prize: a trip for two to Miami to watch Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF 
  • Ten imited-edition bottles with hidden “golden caps” are scattered across ten SPAR stores in the UK from today  
  • Más+ by Messi, the positive hydration drink created by the football legend, Messi, is now available throughout the UK 

Leo Messi is set to land in Edinburgh after the city’s local SPAR was selected as one of only ten shops to receive a special drop of his everyday hydration drink Más+ by Messi.  

Global football icon Leo Messi is challenging supporters to embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt to celebrate the arrival of the drink in the UK. 

Messi has challenged his legions of supporters to find one of ten special bottles of his new drink, each holding the key to money-can’t-buy prizes.  

Starting today Monday 17th March at 4pm in select UK Spar stores, lucky customers can find one of ten signed golden-capped editions in any of the flavours of Más+ by Messi. They come with ​​an exclusive bundle of Mas+ By Messi merchandise as well as a year’s supply of Más+ by Messi.  

Plus, one grand prize winner will experience the ultimate Messi fan dream: a trip for two to Miami, including flights, accommodation, and tickets to witness a home ground match with Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF*   

Leo Messi, who surprised fans 10 years ago by ​​helicoptering into Hackney Marshes, said:  “Both in football and in any challenge, the motivation to achieve the goal is what drives everyone, so I hope the hunt brings excitement to those who are always striving for their own moments of success, now powered by Más+. Good luck to everyone searching, and I hope to see the winner in the stands in Miami soon.”  

Ten SPAR stores across the UK will have 100 free bottles for shoppers on a first come first served basis. One out of those 100 will have a winning gold cap.  

As the world’s most awarded football champion, Leo Messi uniquely understands how hydration helps us achieve our goals, and he was directly involved in introducing Más+.

He wanted a drink he could proudly share with his friends, family, and teammates on Inter Miami CF, because Leo believes everyone deserves to feel like a champion in every part of life.   

Jeremy Kanter, Global Chief Marketing Officer for Más+ by Messi, shared:  “We knew we had to launch Más+ by Messi in the UK with big energy. We wanted to bring people together through their shared love of the beautiful game and encourage positive hydration with Más+ by Messi.”  

Más+ by Messi has an electrolyte complex, vitamins, minerals and comes in four amazing flavours, inspired by Leo’s own milestones:     

Miami Punch is named for his home and club, Inter Miami FC.   

Orange d’Or nods to his 8 Ballon D’Or wins.  

Berry Copa Crush honours the numerous trophies he has lifted.  

Limón Lime League celebrates his​​ four Champions League titles.   

Despite Más meaning ‘more’ in Spanish, Mas+ by Messi has less sugar, carbs, and calories than many sports drinks—1g of sugar and just 10 calories per 500ml bottle as well as no artificial colours or sweeteners, making it excellent for everyday performance whilst not compromising on taste.  

In addition to SPAR, fans can buy Más+ by visitinghttps://uk.masbymessi.com/.

The beverage will continue to roll out to additional UK markets through 2025.  

Team building tops the list of most-disliked workplace social activities

Almost one-third (31%) of employees dislike work team-building activities, according to a new survey by workplace expert Acas.

Acas asked employees which work-related social activities or engagements they favoured least. One fifth (20%) said they disliked after-hours drinks, with 19% disliking any social activity with colleagues.

Staff may have preferences for certain types of social engagements and may be uneasy about taking part in some others at work.

Some neurodiverse staff, such as people with Autism, could find some activities uncomfortable and may not enjoy certain social situations.

Acas is raising awareness of neurodiversity at work and recently published new advice to help employers create inclusive organisations.

Acas Interim Chief Executive Dan Ellis said: “Work social activities can be a great way for employers to improve their staff morale, wellbeing and rapport among colleagues. Our survey has found that over a quarter of employees like different types of social engagements at work.

“However, it is clear from our poll that certain activities are more popular than others and some employees dislike certain social situations with their workmates.

“The good boss will talk to their staff, find out what team-building and social activities will get everyone motivated and think about different activities that can appeal across the workforce. The secret is to ask, listen, respond and not just assume everyone will enjoy a specific activity, just because one person does.”

Employers could talk to their staff to create more engaging activities by asking what appeals to them most from a range of suitable options.

Some staff value their personal time as important in maintaining their mental wellbeing.

Ensuring that team building activities take place within normal hours will protect personal time and avoid excluding staff with parental and caring responsibilities.

Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains behave and process information. As well as autism, other well-known types of neurodiversity include ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Acas advice is that employers should make their organisation more inclusive, so that staff feel comfortable sharing and talking about neurodiversity.

Being inclusive can help:

  • improve staff wellbeing
  • reduce absence levels and employee turnover
  • attract employees with a wider range of skills and experience
  • reduce the risk of disputes and legal claims on discrimination

Celebrity chimp’s life story revealed in pioneering study

A new study led by researchers at National Museums Scotland describes the first comprehensive osteobiography of a zoo animal, a cutting-edge scientific method that involves the analysis of bones and tissue.

These techniques have been applied to reveal the in-depth story of the life of Choppers, star of the 1970s PG Tips advertising campaign, illustrating the changing role of zoos over the past 50 years.

This pioneering research is part of the Animal Feeding project funded by Wellcome.

The study was published in Scientific Reports last week (12 March). It comes as the National Museum of Scotland prepares to welcome the return of the biggest exhibition of primate biology ever staged, Monkeys: Our Primate Family, opening on 28 June.

Choppers, a Western Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus) played Grandmother Ada Lott in the iconic British television ads when she was still a juvenile. She had been rescued from poachers in Sierra Leone at just six weeks old before being brought to the UK and going on to appear in the series of adverts. She was cared for at Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire for over 40 years, until her death in 2016.

Osteobiographies are rarely performed on modern animal specimens and have never been applied so comprehensively to a zoo animal before now. The technique is more commonly used in archaeology to reconstruct the life stories of ancient human subjects, such as Richard III, identifying where and how they lived in remarkable detail.

As a celebrity, Choppers’ life has been extensively documented. This combination of archival material and osteobiographical analysis provides the most complete assessment of the life of an animal in zoo care, highlighting advances in zoological practices.

Dr David Cooper, Researcher at National Museums Scotland and lead author of the study, said: “Choppers was beloved by audiences across the UK for years.

“Now the innovative application of osteobiographical analysis has allowed us to tell her story like never before.

“Her life is a testament to the many thousands of chimpanzees that were taken from the wild and charts a crucial shift in the priorities of zoos away from entertainment and towards education, conservation, research and welfare.”

Choppers’ skeleton was donated to National Museums Scotland by Twycross Zoo, enriching Scotland’s internationally significant natural science collection which comprises more than 10 million specimens and is in constant use for study and research.

Dr Andrew Kitchener, Principal Curator of Vertebrate Biology at National Museums Scotland, said: ““Natural science collections are an invaluable resource in understanding the world in which we live, offering insight into some of the greatest challenges of our age, from biodiversity loss to the climate crisis.

“Our collections are increasingly reflecting the impacts of human activities both locally and globally, and hence are important for providing evidence of those impacts and how we can mitigate against them. We are grateful to zoos like Twycross for their support in developing Scotland’s National Collection, ensuring it remains at the forefront of international research efforts today and into the future.”

This osteobiography was created through the direct application of biogeochemical, pathological, and morphometric analytic techniques. The findings of this study paint a rich picture of Choppers’ key life events, including evidence of traumatic injuries sustained when she was poached from the wild in infancy. These would impact her throughout her life, impairing her movement and exacerbating degenerative issues associated with old age..

Isotopic analyses of Choppers’ tooth enamel indicate a distinct geographical and dietary shift between the ages of three and four, coinciding with her relocation to the UK. In the following three years she played the grandmother character in the PG Tips adverts, despite her youth

She was retired as she reached puberty at around six or seven. Strikingly, Choppers’ upper jaw was significantly elongated when compared with that of wild chimpanzees, reflecting an early diet of sugary soft fruit.

In recent years there has been a dramatic shift towards tougher, less sugary vegetables in the diets of zoo primates, which is leading to significant improvements in primate health and behaviour.

In addition to National Museums Scotland, the study also involved researchers from the University of Exeter, the University of Reading, Twycross Zoo and the University of Edinburgh.

Phillipa Dobbs, Veterinary Services Manager at Twycross Zoo said: “We’re delighted to be able to support this incredible work. At Twycross Zoo, our commitment to animal welfare extends beyond an individual’s lifetime, and studies like this allow us to ensure they contribute to scientific knowledge.

“Choppers was an important part of our history, and this pioneering research offers new insights into her life and the evolving role of modern zoos. By supporting studies like this, we can continue to learn from the past and drive progress in animal care, welfare, science and conservation. It’s an honour to be involved.”

Telfer Subway incident: Police release CCTV image

POLICE have released a CCTV image of a man they wish to speak to as part of an ongoing investigation into a robbery at Telfer Subway, Edinburgh which occurred around 5.30pm on Friday, 14 February, 2025.

The man is white, aged between 18 and 26 years old, with a medium build and wearing a navy-blue tracksuit.

If anyone can identify the man then please do get in touch.

White man wearing a blue hooded jacket. He is wearing a black scarf, concealing the lower half of his face.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2667 of 14 February. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.