Day: August 28, 2025

Six areas of Scotland at Significant Scarcity as rivers remain low

Six areas of Scotland are now at Significant Scarcity, the highest level, as prolonged dry conditions continue across the east. 

The Upper Don and Lower Don reached Significant Scarcity on Wednesday, with the Lower Tweed catchment being escalated today (Thursday). The North Fife, Ythan and Deveron catchments were announced earlier this week.

Temporary restrictions have been issued on some abstraction licences in these areas, limiting the amount of water that can be taken from the environment.  

This week’s report from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) shows that a number of other areas in the country also remain under pressure. Without sustained rainfall, further eastern catchments are at risk of reaching Significant Scarcity in the coming week. 

Moderate Scarcity  

  • Escalated this week: Findhorn, Firth, Forth and the Dee in Aberdeen. 
  • Already at Moderate Scarcity: Spey, Esk (Angus), Almond, Tyne (Lothian) and wider areas of the Ythan, Firth of Tay Tweed catchments. 

Alert  

  • Escalated this week: Tay, Clyde and Helmsdale 
  • Already at Alert: Orkney and Earn 

Early Warning 

  • Escalated this week: Conon and Ness  
  • Already at Early Warning: Wick, Forth, Esk (Dumfriesshire), Annan, Dee (Galloway), Cree, Irvine and Ayr, Leven (Dumbartonshire), Naver, Thurso. 

How did we get here? 

The current situation is the result of prolonged, cumulative pressures on Scotland’s water environment.

A dry autumn and winter in 2024/2025 meant rivers and groundwater did not receive their usual recharge, and a lack of snow over the winter denied eastern rivers the gradual spring replenishment that snowmelt normally brings.

Every month of 2025 so far has recorded below-average rainfall in the east, leaving rivers increasingly vulnerable. 

While the west of Scotland saw some improvement after heavy rain earlier in the summer, those gains have not been sustained, and conditions there are also beginning to deteriorate. 

Rain is forecast for parts of Scotland over the coming days, with showers expected Thursday and Friday and heavier, more widespread rain likely in the northeast on Saturday. However, it remains uncertain whether this will provide meaningful relief to rivers that have been under sustained pressure for months. 

David Harley, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “Six areas of Scotland are now at Significant Scarcity, the highest level of water scarcity we have. It’s a critical moment for farmers, businesses and communities who depend on these rivers.  

“We’ve been warning about water scarcity and the impact it could have on Scotland since May and communicating directly with abstractors across the summer.

“We also been working with key partners, including Fisheries Management Scotland, NFUS, Scotch Whisky Association and Scottish Golf to help the country prepare for potential restrictions.

“We’ve spoken directly to farmers, distillers, golf courses, industry and hydropower businesses over the past few months – this should not come as a surprise to anyone.  

“SEPA officers will be out in areas where restrictions are in place, ensuring abstractors understand their obligations and helping with any questions they may have.  

“While rain is forecast in the coming days, it is too soon to know if it will bring real relief. SEPA will keep monitoring conditions closely and take the action needed to protect our rivers, the environment, and the livelihoods that rely on them.” 

Woman dies following Restalrig assault

A 55-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the assault of a woman in Restalrig.

Around 1am this morning (Thursday, 28 August, 2025), officers were called to a report of a disturbance at a property in Restalrig Avenue.

Emergency services attended and the woman was taken to hospital where she died a short time later.

The 55-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the assault and enquiries are ongoing.

Restalrig Avenue remains closed while enquiries are carried out.

Detective Inspector Kevin Tait said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman at this extremely difficult time.

“There will be a continued police presence in the area while our investigations continue and I would urge anyone with any concerns, or information, to approach these officers.”

Health support for injured Veterans

NETWORK TO PROVIDE EXPERT CLINICAL REVIEWS

Veterans will now have access to an independent clinical review on long-term military-related injuries or conditions through a new service.

The Veterans in Service Injury Network (VISIN), supported by £50,000 annual Scottish Government funding, will be hosted by NHS Highland and available across Scotland.

Veterans can ask to be referred to the network through engagement with their usual health point of contact if their injury or condition remains a concern despite intervention. A dedicated Veteran Coordinator will then convene a multi-disciplinary team, which will include Veterans or Reservists with experience of service-related injuries.

If appropriate, the team recommend further treatment options and longer-term support to assist with the Veteran’s ongoing health needs.

Veterans Minister Graeme Dey said: “The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that all armed forces personnel serving and veterans living in Scotland are able to access the best possible care and support, including safe, effective and person-centred healthcare.

“We know that some Veterans have complex health needs as a consequence of long term injuries or conditions related to their service, and the Veterans In-Service Injury Network (VISIN), provides a pathway for them to access specialist support through engagement with their usual health professional.

“It is important that our Veterans receive the best support possible, in recognition of the valuable contribution they have made. I have no doubt that the establishment of VISIN will make a positive difference to the treatment and care that Veterans receive.”

NHS Highland Armed Forces Champion Jo McBain said: “NHS Highland is proud to host the Veterans in Service Injury Network, providing vital support for veterans living with long-term physical health consequences of their service.

“The response from both clinical and military communities has been outstanding, with their enthusiasm and engagement proving invaluable throughout the pathway’s development and implementation.

“Our experienced, multidisciplinary team draws expertise from across the country, reflecting the diverse healthcare specialisms veterans require. Furthermore, we’re well-supported by military partners and third sector colleagues in delivering this essential pathway of care.”

Glasgow 850 to Celebrate the Big Yin with Weekend Tribute

Glasgow is set to honour one of its most iconic sons, Sir Billy Connolly, with a celebration this September as part of the Glasgow 850 programme.

The Big Yin Weekend, taking place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, will honour to the legendary Glaswegian comedian, musician, storyteller and artist through a vibrant mix of music, comedy, film and walking and cycling tours.

Sir Billy Connolly, who was awarded the Freedom of the City of Glasgow in 2010, has long been regarded as the voice and spirit of the city. His enduring career has brought laughter, insight and pride to generations of Glaswegians, and this celebration of his life and career reflects the deep affection the city holds for him.

The Big Yin Weekend is part of the wider Glasgow 850 programme – a year-long celebration marking the city’s 850th birthday. Led by Glasgow City Council, the programme showcases the people, culture and creativity that make Glasgow a truly unique place to live, work and visit.

Highlights of the weekend include:

  • The Big Yin Tune-In – A free pop-up musical performance at The Park Bar featuring Gary Innes & Friends and the premiere performance of a new song entitled ‘Big Yin’ by Scottish supergroup Mànran, to celebrate Billy Conolly’s contribution to folk music and commemorate the 60th anniversary of The Humblebums.
  • ‘Big Yin’s Best Of ‘– A comedy showcase presented by Glasgow International Comedy Festival, featuring past winners and nominees of the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award.
  • Big Banana Feet screening – A special showing at Glasgow Film Theatre of the fly on the wall documentary following Billy Connolly on his 1975 tour of Ireland, introduced by comedian Scott Agnew.
  • Walking and cycling tours – Gallus Pedals Tours will host walking and cycling tours across the weekend inspired by Billy’s life and legacy, taking in key locations and mural sites across the city.

While the pop-up musical performance is free to attend, tickets for the other events are being sold at reduced prices to allow as many people as possible to attend.

Leader of Glasgow City Council, Cllr Susan Aitken, said: “Throughout our birthday year Sir Billy Connolly’s name has come up time and time again. As arguably the city’s best loved and most famous modern-day Glaswegian, we couldn’t celebrate this landmark year for the city without honouring Billy.

“Billy’s pioneering stand-up has always drawn on Glasgow’s spirit, resilience and uniquely funny bones, and then added his very own special brand of freewheeling genius to bring laughter and joy to millions. This weekend responds to the huge affection people have for the Big Yin with a living tribute to his comedy, music, storytelling and contribution to the arts – and to Glasgow.”

Gary Innes of Mànran and Hoolie in the Hydro, said: “Billy Connolly is a true representation of Glasgow ­– the city’s wit, warmth, spirit and love of music. This year’s Hoolie in the Hydro on 13th December is called The Big Yin and we will round off Glasgow’s birthday year with a tribute to one of the city’s most famous sons.

“As a warm-up to our own toast to Billy, it is fantastic to be part of The Big Yin Weekend and join other institutions from across the city in celebrating the Glasgow legend. Get along to the legendary Park Bar to see the first ever performance of The Big Yin, a tune that I have composed in honour of Sir Billy and raise a glass to the man himself, and Glasgow’s 850th year.”

Krista MacDonald, Festival Director, Glasgow International Comedy Festival, said, “Sir Billy Connolly is the heartbeat of Glasgow’s comedy spirit, a trailblazer whose wit, warmth and honesty put Scottish comedy on the world stage. He embodies the humour, resilience and character of this city, and continues to inspire every performer who steps onto our stages. 

“At the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, his legacy is felt in every laugh, reminding us that comedy here isn’t just entertainment, it’s part of who we are. We are excited to celebrate the Big Yin and Glasgow’s 850th celebrations with a special comedy event in the new Stand Comedy Club.”

Paul Gallagher, Head of Programme at Glasgow Film, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of The Big Yin Weekend with a special screening of Murray Grigor’s Big Banana Feet at GFT, complete with an introduction from Glasgow-based comedian Scott Agnew.

“Rarely screened since its initial release, the documentary captures Billy Connolly’s comic genius, musical flair and unmistakable Glaswegian charm off-stage.

“Lovingly restored by the BFI using the only 16mm print known to exist, the film was a sell-out hit when it premiered at Glasgow Film Festival in 2024, and we’re sure audiences will jump at the chance to experience Connolly’s larger-than-life talent on the big screen.”

Martin Heaney, Founder of Gallus Pedals, said: “As perhaps the most loved Glaswegian there’s a Billy Connolly reference on almost every one of our tours – not because every guest has heard of him, but because he brings humour to the most ordinary parts of life and has influenced how many of us describe this place. 

“It’s been a real joy discovering and exploring parts of the city that helped shape him both as a person and shaped his career and being able to share those locations on our tours.” 

More information on attending the free music event or booking tickets at glasgow850.com or on each of the partners’ websites.

Join the Botanics Choir for autumn term

TUESDAY EVENINGS from 5.30 – 7pm

🎶

Love plants? Love singing? Join our friendly community choir as we celebrate the changing of seasons with plant-inspired songs 🍂

Whether you’re a choir enthusiast or first-time singer, everyone is welcome. No singing experience is required and you don’t need to audition.

🌱 We meet every week in person. Term starts on Tuesday 9 September at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Hospitality stars crowned at Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025

THE DIGGERS IS WHISKY BAR OF THE YEAR

The winners of the 2025 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards were unveiled at a glittering Oscars-themed ceremony held at the Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow on Tuesday. Celebrating its 30th year, the prestigious event welcomed hundreds of hospitality professionals from across Scotland, with over 100 venues shortlisted as finalists.

Top industry honours went to some of Scotland’s most iconic names. Michele Pagliocca, owner of Monteleone Ltd (The Marlborough, The Butterfly and the Pig,

The Buff Club and Singl-End) in Glasgow, received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Donald MacLeod MBE was recognised with the SHG Contribution to the Industry Award and Buzzworks’ Alison Blair was named Inspirational Woman of the Year.

Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2025

There were big celebrations in Edinburgh as local venues scooped some of the night’s most coveted titles.

Black Ivy was named Hotel Scotland Hotel Bar of the Year, Hey Palu claimed the Brugal 1888 Cocktail Bar of the Year, and The Athletic Arms (above) took home the title of Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year.

I’m sure my old pal Frank Russell would have raised a glass to THAT award! – Ed.

Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2025

It was a double win for Encore Bars, with Freddy’s picking up Fireball Best Late Night Venue, and owner Edward Fox receiving the Black Ivy and Montpeliers Rising Star Entrepreneur Award.

The night even saw individual successes celebrated, with Jane Ross (The Mother Superior) awarded the Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award, Gavin Ruthven (The Dome) named HOSPO Manager of the Year, and Toby Peters (The Cocktail Geeks) shaking things up to win Schweppes Mixologist of the Year.

In Midlothian, The Original Rosslyn Inn was recognised as the DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, celebrating its warm welcome to both guests and their four-legged friends.

The celebrations continued in Glasgow, where Berlinkys was awarded the DRAM New Bar of the Year, Kitty O’Shea’s took home the Jameson Best Irish Bar title, and MacSorley’s proudly received the highly sought-after Pub of the Year award.

Dundee enjoyed a successful night, with Draffens honoured with the De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues, and The Phoenix receiving the Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality.

In Fife, Hugos Bar and Pavilion celebrated a second consecutive win, this time taking home the DRAM Best Beer Garden award, while The Criterion in St Andrews received the Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering trophy.

Elsewhere across Scotland, The Newton Bar in Millport was named DRAM Community Pub of the Year, The Birds and Bees in Stirling earned the Jump Ship Brewing Gastropub of the Year title, Lochy’s in Barrhead took the Sims Automatics Sports Bar of the Year award, and Aimee Ashworth from Dishoom was honoured with the Campari Bar Apprentice 2025 accolade.

Two industry giants also made their mark on the night. Apex Hotels showcased their commitment to staff wellbeing by winning the Hospitality Health Employer of the Year award, while the formidable Bucks Bar Group took home the Favela Independent Multiple Operator Award.

Special recognition was given to Fiona Joyce of the Solway Lodge in Gretna, who received the Unsung Hero award, and Lorraine Ferguson from Billy Bridges in Ayr, who was named Bar Personality of the Year.

Both women have dedicated over 20 years to their venues, embodying the passion and loyalty at the heart of Scotland’s hospitality industry.

Susan Young, organiser and Editor of industry publication DRAM, said, “It was fantastic to see so many deserving winners this year.

“These awards are a celebration of the people who make the Scottish hospitality industry the success it is, and this year’s entries were truly outstanding.

“Over the past 30 years, we’ve hosted some incredible events, and this was certainly one of the best. Every finalist deserves recognition for the exceptional venues they operate and should be immensely proud of their achievements.

“Congratulations to each and every one of them!”

The full list of winners is below:

Lifetime Achievement Award

Michele Pagliocca

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Athletic Arms – Edinburgh

Black Ivy and Montpeliers Rising Star Entrepreneurial Award

Edward Fox – Encore Bars, Edinburgh

Brugal 1888 Cocktail Bar of the Year

Hey Palu – Edinburgh

DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year 

The Original Rosslyn Inn – Roslin

Highly Commended – The Anchorage, Dunure

Campari Bar Apprentice 2025

Aimee Ashworth – Dishoom, Glasgow (Formerly La Jupe, Helensburgh)

Highly Commended – Cameron Evans, Lynnhurst Hotel

De Kuyper Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues

Draffens – Dundee

Highly Commended – The Corner House, Kilwinning

Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star

Jane Ross – The Mother Superior, Edinburgh

Favela Independent Multiple Operator 

Winner – Buck’s Bar Group

Highly Commended – Rocks Leisure Group

Fireball Best Late Night Venue 

Freddy’s – Edinburgh 

Hospitality Health Employer of the Year 

Apex Hotels

Highly Commended – Lisini Pub Co.

HOSPO Manager of the Year 

Gavin Ruthven – The Dome, Edinburgh

Hotel Scotland Hotel Bar of the Year 

Black Ivy – Edinburgh

Unsung Hero

Fiona Joyce – Solway Lodge Hotel

Bar Personality of the Year

Lorraine Ferguson – Billy Bridges/Southern Ayr

Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering 

The Criterion – St Andrews 

SPBA Best Beer Garden 

Hugos Bar & Pavilion – Dalgety Bay

Jameson Best Irish Bar

Kitty O’Shea’s – Glasgow

Jump Ship Brewing Gastro Pub of the Year

The Birds and Bees – Stirling

Highly Commended – Crown and Anchor Inn – Findhorn

DRAM Community Pub of the Year

The Newton Bar – Millport

SBPA New Bar of the Year 

Berlinkys – Glasgow

Schweppes Mixologist of the Year 

Toby Peters – The Cocktail Geeks, Edinburgh

Sims Automatics Sports Bar of the Year 

Lochy’s – Barrhead

Scottish Hospitality Group Special Recognition Award

Donald MacLeod MBE

Inspirational Woman of the Year

Alison Blair

Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality 

The Phoenix – Dundee

Pub of the Year 

MacSorley’s – Glasgow 

Follow us online:

www.dramscotland.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/scottish.bar.pub.awards/ https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/

Greater urgency needed to tackle flooding in Scotland’s communities

Whilst some public bodies and councils are working well together to tackle flooding, they face gaps in leadership, skills and data, and there is uncertainty about funding. This is limiting what can be achieved and opportunities to maximise the benefit of money spent are being missed.

Climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of flooding in Scotland, with almost 400,000 properties potentially at risk by 2080. But there is a risk that the action needed to prevent and tackle the already clear harms of flooding won’t happen at the scale and speed needed.

With the Scottish Government placing much more emphasis on flood resilience, there remain multiple barriers to effective collaboration across the public sector and to support communities. There is a lack of clarity in roles, responsibilities and funding. More also needs to be done to support communities to prepare for, and recover from, flooding.

The process for allocating funding for major flood schemes is currently not fit for purpose. Existing major flood schemes are taking longer to complete, with expected costs more than doubling to over £1 billion. This means that fewer homes and communities are protected than originally expected.

Stephen Boyle, Auditor General for Scotland said: “The Scottish Government and other public bodies must urgently address critical gaps in roles, responsibilities, information and data. Failing to do this risks ambitions to build communities that can better withstand and recover from flooding.

“Whilst there are good examples of the Scottish Government collaborating with councils, communities and other public bodies, this isn’t sufficient given the scale of future risks.

“It is vital that greater certainty and clarity about the funding available for major flood schemes is provided, with costs and impacts managed and measured, and national agreement on collaborating and engaging with communities secured.”

Andrew Burns, Deputy Chair of the Accounts Commission, said: “Communities are at the heart of future flood resilience. Whilst there are good examples of the work councils are doing, they face significant challenges. There are gaps in the data they need, uncertainty over funding and a shortage of skilled staff.

‘There are inconsistencies in the advice, money and support to enable communities to become both more resilient to flooding events and recover more quickly.

“These challenges need to be addressed by both local and national government.”

Edinburgh Napier actors land Fringe award for boxing drama Cornermen

The four-strong cast have completed a knockout Edinburgh Festival theatre run

A group of Edinburgh Napier University acting students have claimed an industry award for an Edinburgh Festival Fringe show that packed a punch.

Starring Daniel John Doherty, Liam Scobie, Arran Hogg and Ruairi Francis McCormack – and directed by Lecturer David Wotton from ENU’s School of Arts & Creative Industries –  Cornermen tells the story of a young boxer and the exploitation of his success.

Following a successful run at theSpace on the Mile throughout this month, the cast have been presented with the coveted ‘Bright Spark’ award by The Scottish Theatre Awards on the Fringe.

Awarded every year by the Scottish Arts Club, the prize recognises Scottish actors or theatre-makers just embarking on their career, with the winner selected by a panel of expert judges.

Put on by in-house company Authentically False Productions, Cornermen stood out from the crowd of theatre acts on show across the city during August, drawing praise for its assured performance.

Responding to their award win, Daniel, Liam, Arran and Ruairi said: “We are all absolutely thrilled to have won the ‘Bright Spark’ award at our first foray into the professional theatre world after our training at Edinburgh Napier University. 

“The hard work and dedication we put into Cornermen has paid off and we couldn’t be prouder to represent Edinburgh Napier and the Scottish theatre scene in this way. 

“Hopefully, this award will be a great kick start to our career. We’ll always remember this moment, this award and this training.”

Cornermen director David Wotton said: “It’s awards like this that highlight our department and the hard work we do to make sure our training actors thrive in such a competitive market. 

“This award marks a year of dedication by the cast of Cornermen, Daniel John Doherty, Liam Scobie, Arran Hogg and Ruairi Francis McCormack, and our department. 

“Year upon year our course has exceptional National Student Survey results, and industry recognition like this shows that Edinburgh Napier University is a great place for an actor to train. 

“Directing these four talented actors has been so very rewarding. It’s great that the industry sees and appreciates the work and dedication shown by both our talented actors and staff alike.”

Cornermen was one of many theatre productions put on by ENU students during the Edinburgh Festivals, which draw to a close this week.

It also follows previous shows such as Everything Under the Sun in being recognised by the industry.