MONDAY 15th – SATURDAY 20th SEPTEMBER
This week at Drumbae Library
Day: September 15, 2025
Securing bus manufacturing jobs in Scotland
First Minister visits Alexander Dennis
A package has been announced to support the retention of manufacturing jobs at Alexander Dennis in Scotland.
On a visit to the bus company’s site in Larbert, Falkirk, First Minister John Swinney confirmed approximately £4 million towards a furlough scheme until work can recommence.
To access this salary support funding, the company will need to provide evidence of sufficient orders to sustain its operations in Scotland.
The First Minister said: “The Scottish Government wants to retain the manufacturing workforce of Alexander Dennis. My officials have discussed detailed terms with management and reached agreement on the principles of a company run furlough scheme.
“To access the Scottish Government funding, the company will need to provide evidence of orders that will enable its manufacturing to continue in Scotland. Although the details are commercially sensitive, I am aware Alexander Dennis is working hard to do that.
“This is intended to act as a bridge to a sustainable future for the company in Scotland. During this period, training will also be offered by Scottish Enterprise.
“It is essential we protect the skilled manufacturing jobs we need to build our transition to a green industrial economy.”
Alexander Dennis President and Managing Director Paul Davies said: “We are deeply grateful for the Scottish Government’s commitment to preserving jobs, skills, and industrial capability in the region.
“This announcement marks a turning point. The Scottish Government’s support allows us to propose a new outcome to our statutory consultation.
“This has been made possible by collaboration, determination, and a shared belief in the value and future of domestic manufacturing.”
Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive Adrian Gillespie said: “This welcome announcement signals a strong commitment to supporting and retaining vital Scottish manufacturing expertise in an important, growing market.
“We’ve reached this outcome through partnership working at its best, and I’d like to thank everyone involved for their dedication. Scottish Enterprise looks forward to working with the company to build a successful future in Scotland.”
Spooky Season Arrives at Dynamic Earth with Monsters and Myths Trail
Halloween Fun this October!
THIS October, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, Dynamic Earth invites visitors of all ages to step into the shadows and uncover the science behind the spookiest stories ever told.
From myth-busting monster hunts to late-night planetarium thrills, Dynamic Earth promises a Halloween season filled with discovery, imagination, and just the right amount of fright!
At the heart of the celebrations is the brand-new Monsters and Myths Trail – a Halloween adventure curated and illustrated by Dynamic Earth’s own talented team. Visitors are invited to journey through immersive galleries and track down legendary creatures, both real and imagined. From Halloween favourites such as zombies, vampires and Frankenstein’s Monster to icons of Scottish folklore including selkies and the Loch Ness Monster, this self-guided trail reveals the fascinating science behind the stories.
On the trail, interim CEO Anastasia Rocke said ‘October is one of our favourite times of year at Dynamic Earth. Our new Monsters and Myths Trail brings together creativity, science and storytelling in a way that captures the wonder of Halloween while staying true to our mission – helping people of all ages understand the incredible world around them. We’re especially proud of our incredible staff whose passion and talent made this programme possible. Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or flying solo, there’s something here to make your October unforgettable.’
Dynamic Earth’s Learning and Engagement team is delivering brand-new spooky science sessions to celebrate the season. For families with younger children, under 6, the Dynamos and Dynamites sessions will combine gentle Halloween-themed fun with hands-on discovery, helping children explore some of the world’s spookiest creatures.
Dynamic Earth’s October programme runs throughout the month, with highlights including:
Monsters and Myths Trail
Daily from 3rd October – 2nd November | £4.50 add-on to Science Centre & Planetarium
Embark on a thrilling journey through Dynamic Earth’s immersive galleries and uncover the real-life science behind legendary creatures. Upon purchase, visitors receive a Trail Passport to guide their adventure, collecting stamps and tackling interactive science challenges along the way.
Budding explorers will uncover both myths and monsters whilst discovering the real creatures that shaped the stories we know and love today. Uncover different legends: from the shadowy waters of Loch Ness and its famous monster to Halloween favourites like vampires and zombies. Complete the trail and claim a fossil detective set to take home – perfect for budding explorers.
Seasonal Science Sessions
DynaMites: There’s No Such Thing As A…
Friday 24th and Friday 31st | 10–11am | Book here
A special spooky edition of Dynamic Earth’s sensory sessions for under-4s. With storytelling, crafting, and play, explore some of the real creatures that helped inspire some of our favourite fantasy beasts! Which real animals are poisonous, have terrible teeth, and fearsome claws? In a session that mixes storytelling, crafting and sensory play, you can sort fact from fiction. Includes free entry to Ocean Commotion Soft Play (on the day of your science session for under 6s).
Dynamos: There’s No Such Thing As A…
Friday 24th and Friday 31st | 2:30 pm | Book here
A special spooky edition of Dynamic Earth’s sensory sessions for 4 – 6 year olds. With storytelling, crafting, and play, explore some of the real creatures that helped inspire some of our favourite fantasy beasts! Which real animals are poisonous, have terrible teeth, and fearsome claws? In a session that mixes storytelling, crafting and sensory play, you can sort fact from fiction. Includes free entry to Ocean Commotion Soft Play (on the day of your science session for under 6s).
Dino’s: Monstrous Myths
Saturday 1st November, sessions throughout the day | Book here
Dynamic Earth’s Dino’s Saturday Science Club invites 6–12 year olds to get hands-on with spooky science this Halloween. Through fun activities and a take-home craft, children will explore the real creatures that inspired famous myths and monsters
October Holiday Club
13th, 14th, 15th and 17th October | Book here
This October, children aged 7–12 can join Dynamic Earth’s Holiday Club for four days of discovery and adventure. Each day brings new scientific challenges – from outdoor investigations in Holyrood Park and wildlife spotting, to creative crafts, games, and experiments. And, with flexible booking, families can choose the days that best suit their holiday plans. Led by Dynamic Earth’s Learning & Engagement team, the club offers the perfect mix of fun and hands-on science, inspiring the next generation of planet protectors.
Planetarium Programme
What’s Up: Dark Matter Detectives | Book here
3rd September – November 30th
Step into the role of a space detective in What’s Up – Dark Matter Detectives, the latest presenter-led Planetarium show from Dynamic Earth’s in-house astronomers. The Universe is full of mysteries, from dark energy to the elusive dark matter that shapes the cosmos. Join Dynamic Earth’s team of astral agents to discover the hidden clues the Universe leaves behind and explore one of science’s biggest unanswered questions: what is dark matter?
Planetarium Lates
16th – 18th October | 18+ | Various concession prices available | £20 per ticket | Book here
Adults can enjoy an atmospheric evening under the stars with cult classics like Rocky Horror Picture Show and Aliens, or lose themselves in The Dark Side of the Moon dome shows. Cocktails and a spine-tingling atmosphere guarantee a Halloween night to remember.
Family Film Screenings
13th – 19th October daily | £6 per ticket | Book here
Every Saturday and Sunday between 4th October and 2nd November | £6 per ticket
Family favourites including Monsters Inc., Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, Brave, and Scooby Doo: Frankencreep light up the dome every morning from 10:00 am.
October Membership Offer:
This October, there’s more than just Halloween fun in store at Dynamic Earth! Visitors can upgrade their Annual Pass from £25 and receive a 12-month membership at Dynamic Earth.
A Dynamic Earth Annual Membership Includes:
- Exclusive invites to Members Only events
- Free tickets to selected seasonal events
- Welcome £5 voucher for the Cafe or Gift Shop
- 10% discount in the Cafe and Gift Shop every time you visit
- 20% discount on parking at Dynamic Earth every time you visit
- £2 per child entry to Ocean Commotion Soft Play
- Priority access to skip queues
- Regular updates via Dynamic Earth’s Members e-newsletter
- Priority notification on special events
T&C apply.
Visit Dynamic Earth and Transform Your Halloween!
Celebrate Halloween at Dynamic Earth with a mix of science, storytelling, and spooky fun. From uncovering legends on the Monsters & Myths Trail to family-friendly Planetarium shows and late-night screenings for adults, October at Dynamic Earth offers unforgettable adventures for all ages.
For tickets, timings, and full programme details, visit Dynamic Earth’s Halloween page.
Save the Date: Edinburgh Diwali celebrates 10th anniversary
Sunday 2nd November 2025
TEN YEARS OF UNITING COMMUNITES AND CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
Join us in celebrating a decade of light, culture, and community as Edinburgh Diwali marks its 10th Anniversary on Sunday 2nd November 2025.
This year’s landmark event promises a spectacular celebration featuring a vibrant parade through Edinburgh’s New Town, music, dance and cultural performances, the return of public fireworks displays to Princes Street Gardens at the Ross Bandstand, and much more.
Since 2015, Edinburgh Diwali has showcased the spirit of the Indian festival of lights and Scotland’s rich multicultural tapestry by bringing together communities to celebrate diversity. Started as an initiative by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh and Indian diaspora from the city, Edinburgh Diwali has gone on to become one of the UK’s most prominent public Diwali celebrations, attracting around 10,000 spectators to the parade and performances in Edinburgh’s city centre.
Last year’s celebrations lit up the city with incredible energy, featuring unforgettable performances covering classical to contemporary from across cultures from more than 200 performers, notably Scottish Regiment Band, the electrifying Edinburgh Bhangra Crew, dynamic dance troupes Bollyfeat and Dance Ihayami, and a headline performance from the sensational Kaykay & Co., the London based British Asian fusion band. This year’s 10th anniversary celebration promises to be even bigger, with details of the full programme to be revealed nearer the date.
This special milestone edition of Edinburgh Diwali will take place 13:00 – 19:00 on Sunday 2nd November 2025. The event is free to attend and open to all, encouraging people from across Edinburgh and the surrounding area to participate in this family-friendly festival of light.
For further information about Edinburgh Diwali, visit:
Edinburgh young swimmers invited to make a splash with competition
Olympic and paralympic heroes judge design to cap ten years of swimming success
YOUNG swimmers in Edinburgh are being handed the unique chance to see their creativity celebrated by sporting royalty for Learn to Swim Month.
A new competition has been launched for children design a commemorative swim cap marking a decade of the trailblazing Learn to Swim programme.
The winning design will be announced live by Learn to Swim Ambassadors, Olympic medallist Duncan Scott and Paralympic champion Toni Shaw, during the official 10th Anniversary Celebration Event later this year.
Delivered in partnership by Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming, the Learn to Swim Framework has grown into one of Scotland’s most successful programmes – supporting more than 210,000 children and adults learn to swim and help them to become safer, more confident and competent in water.
Duncan Scott, the most decorated Scottish Olympian of all time, said: “The success of the Learn to Swim programme over the past decade has been phenomenal.
“We’ve reached hundreds of thousands of young people and are continuing to grow year after year. What I really love is just how inclusive it is, welcoming children of all ages, all backgrounds and abilities, and giving them the chance to thrive in and around the water.
“This competition is a brilliant way to celebrate everything that’s been achieved and gives one lucky youngster the chance to create a special memory and have their very own unique swimming cap.”
The competition runs throughout Learn to Swim Month this September, with entries welcomed via a dedicated form hosted online from those currently enrolled in the Learn to Swim programme.
A judging panel including representatives from Scottish Swimming and Scottish Water will select the winner.
The design brief asks children to show what swimming means to them – whether that’s fun, freedom, learning or adventure.
Paralympic medallist Toni Shaw, who has been a passionate ambassador for the initiative since 2021, added: “This is such a fun way to celebrate the past 10 years and really mark the occasion in style.
“To now see so many opportunities opening up for young people, especially those facing unique challenges, is special for me personally.
“This competition is a great way to shine a light on everything that’s been achieved – and I can’t wait to see the creative designs the children come up with.”
The young designer behind the chosen cap will receive a one-of-a-kind cap featuring their artwork, a goodie bag and the chance to see their cap design produced in limited numbers for use by learners at their own Learn to Swim provider.
The Learn to Swim programme is now delivered by 38 leisure trusts and aquatic providers in 167 pools across the country. It currently sees around 84,000 children and adults take part in swim lessons every week – with ambitions to reach a further 50,000 by 2028.
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said: “The 10-year milestone of the Learn to Swim programme represents an opportunity to celebrate all the great work that’s been done so far.
“We are proud to support the Learn to Swim programme and work with Scottish Swimming and all the leisure trusts and aquatic providers across the country to create ‘Generation Swim’, a generation of confident, safer and competent swimmers, who will also get to experience the wider health and social benefits that swimming can offer.
“Everyone should be able to enjoy Scotland’s miles of rivers, lochs, reservoirs and shorelines safely and with confidence – and the programme plays a vital role in teaching essential water safety skills, helping individuals stay safer in, on and around Scotland’s vast network of pools, rivers, lochs, reservoirs and shorelines.”
Since its inception, the Learn to Swim Framework has championed inclusive access to lessons, helping over 2,700 children with disabilities take part – with more than 80% now swimming in mainstream lessons.
John Lunn, Chief Executive at Scottish Swimming, said: “The 10th anniversary is a chance for us to reflect on just how far Learn to Swim has come – and the Celebration Event will be a fantastic way to recognise the people and partners who’ve made it all possible.
“From improving water safety to driving inclusion and supporting physical literacy, the programme has achieved so much – and this competition adds a brilliant, creative twist to the milestone.”
The 10th Anniversary Celebration Event – where the winner will be unveiled – is due to take place on October 30th at Dynamic Earth bringing together key partners and supporters to reflect on a decade of progress in water safety, inclusion, and physical literacy.
Entries are open now via:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VNSDM2W
For more information about the Learn to Swim Framework, visit www.learn2swim.scot
Aldi donates over 43,000 meals to local charities over summer
Aldi stores in Edinburgh and The Lothians donated over 43,000 meals to families in need throughout the recent summer holidays.
All Edinburgh and Lothian stores aided local charities and foodbanks during the period of increased demand by redistributing surplus food through community giving platform Neighbourly.
The UK’s fourth largest supermarket has worked with Neighbourly since 2019 and has already donated more than 8.8 million meals so far this year to those in need nationwide.
Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “We are proud to continue supporting incredible causes across the country this summer, helping to provide fresh, wholesome food to those who need it most.
“School holidays can be a challenging time for many families, and this summer we’re continuing our efforts to provide support where we can through our partnership with Neighbourly.”
Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “Summer holidays represent one of the busiest times of the year for charities and food banks, and this year was no different.
“Aldi’s generous donations played a key role in helping support families, and our partnership continues to make a meaningful difference to those who need it most.”
Shoppers can also donate food to local charities, food banks and community groups via the community donation points in Aldi stores nationwide.
Britain’s fourth largest supermarket also works with Company Shop, the UK’s leading redistributor of surplus food and household products, to redistribute surplus food from its Regional Distribution Centres.
Letters: Battle of Britain 85th anniversary
Dear Editor
On September 15, the nation will commemorate the 85th Anniversary of Battle of Britain Day, when the remarkable generation that became known as ‘the Few’ fought and won against incredible odds in the skies over southern Britain.
During the height of the battle in the summer of 1940, the then Chair of the RAF Benevolent Fund, The Viscount Wakefield, wrote to a national newspaper highlighting that: ‘The wonderful achievements of the Royal Air Force in these critical weeks have naturally led to various suggestions being made as to the best way in which the heroism and sacrifices of our airmen can be assessed or our debt to them in any way liquidated….in the near future, there must be heavy calls on the RAF Benevolent Fund.
“I am confident that as a tribute to their ceaseless fight for the cause of freedom, many will wish to support their cause.’
Eighty-five years on, the RAF Benevolent Fund continues to stand alongside the Royal Air Force. From the first day in uniform, throughout service, the transition to civilian life, and into retirement, we are with the RAF Family every step of the way.
Today we answer thousands of calls for help – supporting individuals and families in financial hardship, veterans facing loneliness and isolation, carers in need of respite, and those struggling with mental health.
As we commemorate and remember the courage and sacrifice of all those who played such a vital role in the Battle of Britain, we recognise that the Royal Air Force of today continues to protect the skies above the UK. As they do, the RAF Benevolent Fund, like it did in 1940, stands with the RAF ready to provide meaningful, lasting, and tailored support to those who serve, those who have served, and their families.
The demand for our support never ends. If you know anyone who could benefit from the life-changing services we provide, you can find more details at rafbf.org, or you can call on 0300 102 1919.
Yours sincerely,
Air Commodore Simon Harper OBE MA FCIPD
Director Operations, RAF Benevolent Fund
Coulters partners with Watsonians to power grassroots rugby in Edinburgh
Coulters Property, one of Edinburgh’s fastest-growing estate agency and legal firms, has announced a landmark partnership with Watsonian Football Club, becoming the club’s exclusive property sponsor for 2025.
The partnership includes a five-figure investment to support the club’s junior section, the Warriors and Wildcats, funding new equipment, enhancing coaching programmes, and helping more young people across Edinburgh experience rugby.
Founded in 2013, Coulters has grown rapidly with a reputation for delivering a client-first approach by combining estate agency and legal expertise under one roof. By backing Watsonian Football Club, who are celebrating their 150th year this year, Coulters is extending this ethos beyond property services and into the heart of the Edinburgh community, where many of its clients live, work, and raise families.
Michael Fitzgerald, Chairman of Coulters Property, said: “We are proud to sponsor Watsonian Football Club’s junior section, as the club is deeply rooted in Edinburgh’s community and dedicated to nurturing talent from the grassroots up.
“With its proud history and strong family ethos, Watsonian Football Club reflects the very values we hold at Coulters – a commitment to delivering lasting value, honouring heritage, and supporting growth.
“The EH10 community is at the heart of who we are as a business, and many of our clients and colleagues live, work, and raise families here. Supporting the Warriors and Wildcats allows us to give back in a meaningful way – by investing in youth rugby, fostering wellbeing, and strengthening community connections.
“Just as Watsonian Football Club strives for excellence on and off the pitch, we are dedicated to guiding people through their property journey with the same care, clarity, and commitment.”
Richard Kelly, President of Watsonian Football Club, added: “Youth rugby is the foundation of our sport, and the Warriors and Wildcats play a crucial role in introducing children to the game.
“Coulters’ backing means we can invest in the right resources, reach more young players, and ensure rugby continues to thrive in Edinburgh for generations to come.”
The partnership was officially launched at the Watsonian Family Day on Saturday 6 September at Myreside Pavilion, where Coulters played a central role in the celebrations. The event brought together players, parents, and supporters to enjoy family-friendly activities such as face painting, a bouncy castle, and a BBQ, all in honour of the club’s 150 years of rugby history.
For more information about Watsonian Football Club, visit watsoniansrugby.com.
To learn more about Coulters Property services, visit coultersproperty.co.uk.
Scotland hosts global gaming summit
First Minister welcomes industry leaders to global showcase
First Minister John Swinney says Scotland is positioned to become “a global hub for digital innovation” as a prestigious computer games conference being held in Scotland for the first time gets underway.
The DICE Europe summit – supported by the Scottish Government – will see 150 global gaming industry leaders come to Edinburgh for key talks and to hear from Nintendo’s Managing Executive Officer Satoru Shibata, who was invited to speak by the First Minister.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes will address an opening reception at Edinburgh Castle where global delegates will be entertained by Nicola Benedetti.
Roundtables will focus on Scotland’s rise to become a global powerhouse in the industry and the role Artificial Intelligence will play in game development. Scotland is now home to 130 gaming companies with a £340 million annual industry turnover with staff numbers have doubling from 1,045 to 2,125 since 2015.
First Minister John Swinney said: “Scotland’s gaming industry is experiencing extraordinary growth that demonstrates our nation’s capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship. The transformation from 15 companies to 130 in just over a decade shows how quickly Scottish talent can compete on the global stage and create real economic value for our communities.
“These companies are not just creating games played by millions worldwide – they are creating skilled jobs, attracting international investment, and positioning Scotland as a global hub for digital innovation. This growth directly supports our mission to raise living standards in every part of Scotland and cement our reputation as a centre of creative excellence.”
Chris van der Kuyl, Chairman, 4J Studios, developers of Minecraft Console Edition, who helped bring DICE to Scotland, said:
“It’s monumental so many of the industry’s top figures are gathering in Scotland. After a couple of challenging years worldwide, confidence and growth prospects have returned to the sector.
“With the forthcoming release of GTA 6, which is set to reshape the video game landscape, and our own new game Reforj alongside all the other incredible output from studios across the country, Scotland is well placed to lead the way and have an outsized impact on the global stage.”
DICE Europe takes place from 15-17 September.
Mental health partnership manifesto calls for urgent action
A partnership of seventeen leading organisations is calling for urgent action in its Scottish election manifesto to prioritise addressing Scotland’s mental health emergency.
Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership has unveiled its manifesto, ‘Scotland’s Mental Health: It’s Time for Action’, ahead of the Scottish election next May. The manifesto demands that the next Scottish Government takes bold and decisive action to address the current crisis and to transform the country’s mental health in the longer term.
With mental health poorer than it was before the Covid pandemic, and stigma and discrimination still prevalent within society, mental health services are struggling to cope with an unprecedented increase in demand. With no corresponding increase in funding or resource, and a burnt-out workforce, this is collectively creating a spike in waiting lists for support and treatment.
The manifesto is built around the Partnership’s framework of the 3Ps – Promote, Prevent and Provide – to ensure that there are commitments to increase resources for early intervention and prevention; a choice of support, care and treatment in the right place and at the right time for all; and an ambitious public health programme to improve mental health literacy that will tackle stigma and discrimination.
The Partnership states that ‘urgent action’ can be met with a substantial increase in investment to achieve better outcomes for Scotland, by exploring sustainable, multi-year funding for the third sector, addressing the mortality gap, expanding and retaining the mental health workforce, and shifting the balance of care back to the community.
It also believes that the next Government must include a dedicated Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing to lead on transforming mental health in Scotland. With a Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy that has seen little progress– based around the 3Ps – it needs to be strengthened with coordinated approaches delivered across the country to implement national strategic priorities at a local level, and a ‘mental health in all policies’ approach.
Gordon Johnson, Policy Lead for Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership, said: “There must be immediate and decisive action from the next Government.
“The time for talking and planning has passed. We are now in a mental health emergency, and we need bold and ambitious measures that will address this crisis.
“We are far away from success. A great deal of work is required to tackle the mental health emergency in Scotland. This manifesto of coherent and connected proposals will enable significant progress to be made.
“The focus for the next Government needs to be achieving radical change that will lead to sustainable support and services that can ultimately deliver better long-term mental health outcomes for Scotland’s people.
“We look forward to working in partnership with that Government to implement these proposals.”