Month: November 2025

Forth Awards celebrates Amy Macdonald and Wet Wet Wet alongside local heroes

The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, crowned the very best of Edinburgh and the East today at a star-studded award ceremony which saw Amy Macdonald, Wet Wet Wet, Connor Burns, Claire Richards and more recognised alongside local heroes.  

With all performers kept under wraps until on the day itself, a sold out Usher Hall audience were treated to surprise sets from superstar singer Amy Macdonald, Scots icons Wet Wet Wet, Claire Richards of Steps fame, Highland folk pop band Tide Lines and more. 

Forth 1 presenters handed out awards to local heroes as well as celebrities, with Boogie and Arlene, Garry Spence, Callum Gallacher and Steven Mill making appearances onstage, as well as a charity auction to raise money for Forth 1’s Cash for Kids, helping to make a difference for kids across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk. 

10 awards were handed out across the jam-packed show, recognising hometown heroes across Best Teacher, Best Restaurant, Best Workplace and the all important Forth Local Hero Award. 

One of Scotland’s most successful touring comedians, local boy Connor Burns took to the stage to perform a hilarious set before picking up the Forth Fringe Award, recognising his completely sold out run in August. Connor’s hometown set at the Forth Awards proved why he’s one of comedy’s fastest rising stars. 

Pic Greg Macvean 13/11/2025 Forth Awards, Usher Hall

Connor Burns said: “I can’t believe it. It’s such an honour to know it was voted for by the listeners. Forth 1 have always looked after me as they do with new talent. This is my first award.

“I’m a many time runner up, so I’ve finally got something to hang on my wall!”

South Queensferry’s family-run seafood restaurant The Crab and Lobster Shack was voted Forth’s Best Restaurant, run by the Coghill family and offering up high-quality seafood.

Plus, Mr David Barrett, of Preston Tower Primary School was voted the Forth Best Teacher, hailing originally from Canada and gaining experience working in Thailand, David’s pupils and colleagues said he turned lessons into adventures and took genuine care in helping every child see their own potential. 

Pic Greg Macvean 13/11/2025 Forth Awards, Usher Hall

He said, “I’m one of a team and really we’re all winning this right now.”

Next up, iconic Scots band Wet Wet Wet were honoured with the Forth Music Recognition Award, as founding member Graeme Clark, guitarist Graeme Duffin and lead singer Kevin Simm performed hits ‘Love Is All Around’ and ‘Goodnight Girl’.

With over 15 million records sold worldwide, Wet Wet Wet are one of Scotland’s most successful musical exports and said: “Scotland has been a big part of Wet Wet Wet’s life and so have the people of Scotland who took us into their hearts. It’s lovely to be in Edinburgh again at the Forth Awards – they’re a big supporter…we love them and they love us!”

The top talent continued into early evening as Scots superstar singer Amy Macdonald was named the Forth Best Artist, entertaining the crowd with huge hits ‘Mr Rock & Roll’, ‘Is This What You’ve Been Waiting For?’, and ‘This Is The Life’ . With her latest album release and two upcoming dates at Glasgow’s Hydro, Amy Macdonald continues to sell out shows around the world since catapulting onto the music scene in 2007. 

Pic Greg Macvean 13/11/2025 Forth Awards, Usher Hall

Onstage accepting her award, Amy Macdonald said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to be here this afternoon. It’s such a nice venue, I remember performing here on tour a few years ago and really enjoying it.

“Thank you so much to Radio Forth for having me and giving me nice prizes and playing all my songs on the radio. I hope you have an amazing rest of your day – don’t do anything that I wouldn’t do, which is… absolutely nothing, so do whatever you want! It’s been a pleasure to be here.” 

A heartwarming moment in the afternoon came when Pawel Zakrzewski won the Forth Cash for Kids Award for co-founding the Edinburgh Combat Project, Edinburgh’s first martial arts charity, helping children facing mental and physical health challenges and offering a lifeline for kids facing tough circumstances. 

The Forth Best Workplace award went to Free Agent, for their commitment to well being, learning, sustainability and empowering their community of small businesses, whilst Dunbar adventure park East Links Family Park took home the Forth Visitor Attraction Award.

One of the most emotional moments of the show, the Forth Local Hero Award went to Lisa Fleming, recognising her work in founding The House of Hope with her husband Euan after her own diagnosis with incurable secondary breast cancer in 2017.

Pic Greg Macvean 13/11/2025
Forth Awards, Usher Hall

Lisa has raised over £2 million for research, support and education after identifying a gap in wellbeing and support provision within her hometown of Edinburgh. The House of Hope has become a sanctuary for those impacted by breast cancer, with fully funded, tailored workshops, classes and support groups and holistic therapies.

Next up, Claire Richards, of Steps fame, took to the stage to perform an electric set including 00s Steps hits ‘Tragedy’ ‘One For Sorrow’ and more, before Boogie and Arlene presented the singer with the Forth Icon Award. 

Claire Richards said: “It’s really exciting I never win anything so it’s really lovely to be recognised in that way!

“I haven’t spent that much time in Edinburgh – we’ve been here since last night and it’s beautiful here, absolutely beautiful. Everybody in Edinburgh needs to come and see The Steps Musical. It’s the perfect medicine to everything. It’s just joyful.”

The 2025 Forth Awards came to a dance-fuelled end with performances from Angie Brown, Oceanic and Robin S ensuring the crowd danced the remainder of the evening away to 80s and 90s hits. 

Recognising everything from small acts of kindness from teachers and care workers, to achievements in the world of entertainment, The Forth Awards were once again a celebration of inspiring stories from Forth 1’s local heroes and performances to remember. 

Richie Jeffrey, Head of Events said: “The 20th edition of the Forth Awards was just as special as ever, as we shone the spotlight on local listeners making a difference in their communities.

“The sold out Usher Hall crowd enjoyed an afternoon of music, comedy and theatre performances as well as learning more about our inspiring winners and the work they do.

“It’s an honour for Forth 1 to be able to celebrate our community across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk – huge congrats to all of today’s winners and thanks to our incredible performers.”

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

FORTH AWARDS 2025 – WINNERS INFO

THE FORTH BEST RESTAURANT AWARD WITH SALTIRE HOSPITALITY

WINNER:  THE CRAB AND LOBSTER SHACK – SOUTH QUEENSFERRY

The Crab & Lobster Fish Shack

The Crab and Lobster Fish Shack is a seafood restaurant in South Queensferry, near Edinburgh. It serves a variety of seafood, from high-end fish and chips to dishes like crab nachos, lobster thermidor, and West Coast mussels. It features an open kitchen, a nautical theme inspired by the Hamptons, and offers a range of drinks and desserts

THE FORTH CASH FOR KIDS AWARD WITH NEWTOWN DÉCOR

WINNER: PAWEL ZAKRZEWSKI

 The Edinburgh Combat Project

Pawel’s journey is one rooted in deep personal loss, resilience, and a commitment to changing lives. He tragically lost his father at the age of five, a loss that left him feeling directionless and emotionally disconnected, despite being surrounded by family. As a young boy, Pawel struggled to cope without a father figure. He rebelled against rules, disengaged from school, and got into trouble, behaviours that reflected a child in pain, searching for purpose. That purpose eventually came through martial arts. 

What began as an outlet for his anger and confusion became a lifeline. He later discovered that his late father had not only been a boxer, but a multiple-time boxing champion who had used martial arts to support others in his community, something that deeply inspired Pawel. Martial arts became his path forward, and he went on to compete at the highest levels in Thailand before a spinal injury brought his competitive career to an end.

Returning to the UK during and after COVID-19, Pawel recognised a growing need among young people in his community, especially those facing mental health challenges or showing the same rebellious behaviours he once had. It was then that his priorities shifted. Inspired by his father’s dream of creating a first-class facility for all children in need, Pawel co-founded the Edinburgh Combat Project.

THE FORTH BEST TEACHER AWARD WITH OMNI CENTRE

WINNER: MR DAVID BARRETT – PRESTON TOWER PRIMARY SCHOOL

David Barrett is an amazing, inspiring teacher who brings a unique energy to Preston Tower Primary School. In a profession largely staffed by women, he stands out, not just for being different, but for all the right reasons. His humour, warmth, and intelligence make him a favourite with students, parents, and colleagues alike. Originally from Canada and enriched by his time in Thailand, David brings a global perspective into the classroom, turning lessons into adventures. He combines knowledge, humour, and genuine care to help every child see their own potential.

THE FORTH BEST WORKPLACE AWARD WITH FUSE

WINNER: FREE AGENT

Find an accountant in Edinburgh – FreeAgent

Free Agent is a company that truly lives its values through everyone’s every day actions. It’s a place for innovation, collaboration, inclusivity and on one of the office walls, they quote Bill and Ted’s mantra – “Be excellent to each other” – and that is truly the standard from the CEO down. 

The company supports well being, learning and are committed to sustainability and to empowering their community of small businesses, accountants and bookkeepers. 

THE FORTH VISITOR ATTRACTION

WINNER: EAST LINKS FAMILY PARK

Home | East Links FP

East Links Family Park is a 20-acre farm-themed adventure park in Dunbar, East Lothian, Scotland, offering a variety of activities for all ages, including a train safari, animal handling, and a large play fortress. It is a family-friendly attraction with options like go-karts, trampolines, crazy golf, a hay barn, and indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as an on-site café

THE FORTH LOCAL HERO AWARD

WINNER: LISA FLEMING

The House of Hope

The House of Hope was founded by Lisa Fleming and her husband Euan, following Lisa’s own diagnosis with incurable secondary breast cancer in 2017. Over the last 6.5 years, Lisa has immersed herself within the cancer community, along with Euan and the support of friends and family, successfully raising over £2 million for secondary breast cancer research, support, and education.

Over the last few years, through public speaking across the UK, forging relationships on and offline with other patients living with or impacted by breast cancer, Lisa identified a gap in wellbeing and support provision within her hometown of Edinburgh.

As a service user of Future Dreams House in London, which is currently the only dedicated breast cancer support centre in the UK, Lisa has experienced first-hand as a patient the positive impact that such a service can have on the emotional and physical wellbeing of someone living with breast cancer.  

THE FORTH BEST ARTIST AWARD WITH VICTOR PARIS

WINNER: AMY MACDONALD

THE FORTH MUSIC RECOGNITION AWARD WITH THE LIQUID ROOM

WINNER: WET WET WET

THE FORTH ICON AWARD WITH THE EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE

WINNER: CLAIRE RICHARDS

THE FORTH FRINGE AWARD WITH WATERMANS

WINNER: CONNOR BURNS

Book Week Scotland activities at Stockbridge Library

Book Week Scotland is an annual week-long celebration of books and reading.

Book Week Scotland 2025 will take place from Monday 17 to Sunday 23 November. The theme this year is Friendship.

See above activities at Stockbridge library celebrating books, reading and friendship!

#BookWeekScotland

COSLA President says rebuilding trust in politics starts with stronger local voices

THE PRESIDENT of the body representing Scotland’s 32 councils has urged a room of leading political figures to rebuild trust by giving people and places a stronger voice in how decisions are made locally.

Speaking at the COSLA Annual Conference in St Andrews this week, Councillor Shona Morrison used her opening address to urge political leaders to back a bold, long-term vision for local democracy – one that gives communities the powers, trust, and resources they need to thrive.

The call comes at the first major event following the launch of COSLA’s manifesto, which acknowledges 50 years of the organisation and sets out a clear roadmap for strengthening local government and empowering communities across Scotland.

In introducing the overarching theme of the event, “The Future of Localism”, Councillor Morrison told delegates: “Localism means trusting communities, empowering councils and rejecting unnecessary centralisation. It means recognising that Scotland’s strength lies in its diversity, urban, rural, island – and that one-size-fits-all solutions rarely work.

“It means giving councils the powers and resources to empower those voices in their communities, so that decisions are shaped together, with local knowledge at the heart of every choice.”

Marking COSLA’s 50th anniversary, the 2025 Conference brings together leaders from across local government, business, academia and public life.

The event features high-profile contributions from First Minister John Swinney MSP, Douglas Alexander MP, and Alastair Campbell, alongside figures such as Olympic champion Duncan Scott OBE, David Duke MBE, and Professor Sir Gregor Smith, Chief Medical Officer for Scotland.

Building on the momentum of the manifesto, the President reiterated COSLA’s key asks of all political parties ahead of the 2026 election:

  • A fair, multi-year financial settlement to protect and plan local services.
    Empowerment of local democracy, ensuring decisions are taken as close as possible to communities.
  • A valued workforce, recognising the essential role of council staff in delivering public services.
  • Action for future generations, embedding children’s rights and opportunities at the centre of policy-making.
  • Investment in thriving and cohesive communities, to tackle inequality and strengthen local resilience.
  • Support for thriving places, through sustainable economic growth, housing and transport investment, and a just transition to net zero.

COSLA’s manifesto, launched last month, outlines what the organisation describes as a “turning point” in the relationship between national and local government. It calls for full implementation of the Verity House Agreement, reform of local taxation, and new powers for councils to make local choices based on local priorities.

Councillor Morrison added: “The manifesto is about ensuring we set our own agenda, rather than merely responding to that of others. COSLA is a voice of influence, and we want it to be heard strongly by those seeking parliamentary election and those that wish to form the next Scottish Government.

“It calls for a relationship between local and national government that is based on trust, respect, and parity of esteem. We are asking those who make up the next Scottish Government to empower local democracy and our communities. Decisions must be taken as close to communities as possible.

“Our asks are not optional, they are essential if Scotland is to thrive. We want to work constructively with all parties, but we will not accept anything less than fairness and the power to act for our communities.”

Taking place in St Andrews, The COSLA Annual Conference, sponsored by CCLA, took place over two days with plenary sessions, panels, and fringe discussions on topics including care reform, climate leadership, community cohesion, and online life for future generations.

#COSLA25

COSLA-Manifesto-2026v2Download

LifeCare: Five years, 42,000 hot meals – and a call for support to keep wheels in motion

“Community support is the secret ingredient” – 60% of LifeCare’s meals are free for the growing numbers of local older people struggling on a low income

LifeCare Edinburgh’s Meals on Wheels service is celebrating its 5th birthday — a remarkable milestone in local community care. Since launching in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, the charity has freshly prepared and delivered more than 42,000 hot, two-course meals to over 300 older people across north Edinburgh and Leith.

Thanks to the generosity of funders and donors, 60% of all meals – over 29,000 in total – have been delivered completely free of charge to older people living on low incomes. This fundraising support has ensured that thousands of older residents have had access not only to nutritious, hot meals, but also to vital social connection and care.

Prepared fresh each day by LifeCare’s café team and delivered by kind-hearted drivers, the service has become a true lifeline for many older residents. With more than 75% of clients living alone, that friendly knock on the door and a familiar face can be as uplifting as the hot meal itself. 

The service also acts as an important early warning system — if someone doesn’t answer the door or seems unwell, LifeCare’s team can quickly check in and ensure further support is put in place.

Chef Tony, from LifeCare’s community café, CafeLife, said: “Every meal we send out is made with care, because we know it’s not just food – it’s comfort and company too.

“The team in the kitchen puts their heart into making sure every meal is tasty, nourishing, and feels like something special arriving at the door. Community support is the secret ingredient, and if local people and businesses can continue to give generously to support us, it will help keep our wheels in motion for the years ahead.”

A Lifeline with a Long History

Sarah van Putten, CEO of LifeCare Edinburgh said. “It’s a huge moment of pride for us.  Our history of support goes back a long way – LifeCare actually predates the NHS, and as a charity we first offered Meals on Wheels almost a century ago. The needs we were meeting back in the 1940s – tackling isolation, nutritional concerns, and low incomes – are still very real today.

“When the pandemic hit, many of our older clients were shielding, and as a team we worked hard to relaunch the service to reach those most in need.

“Five years on, we’ve delivered more than 42,000 hot meals, and it’s become a true community lifeline. It shows what’s possible when people come together to care for one another.”

John, 77, receives free Meals on Wheels twice a week, he said: “I realised I just couldn’t do as much for myself as I could a few years ago. I’ve always been independent despite my disability, but getting older makes things harder. Everyone at LifeCare is marvellous — they always find a way to help.

“I get Meals on Wheels twice a week — kindness delivered to my door! The food is amazing, and the drivers are great company.  LifeCare’s support has changed my life. I don’t feel isolated anymore, and I know they’re always there if I need them.

“To anyone thinking about using or supporting LifeCare — don’t wait. It’s the best thing you’ll ever do!”

LifeCare’s ability to deliver this life-changing service depends on the generosity of its funders and supporters.

The ScottishPower Foundation has played a vital role over the past two years, helping to bring 6,000 free, freshly prepared meals to people’s doors this year — meeting nearly half of all requests for support across the last 12-months.

Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “We know that older people in communities across the country are facing significant challenges as we head into the winter months – from nutritional needs to social isolation. The Meals on Wheels service by LifeCare is a lifeline, addressing these critical issues with compassion. 

“Over the past two years, our partnership with the charity has made a real difference. They are providing delicious hot meals and also social connection with care. We’re proud to have played a role in supporting LifeCare Edinburgh’s essential services.”

Share the Warmth This Winter

As the colder months draw in, LifeCare is inviting the local community to help spread a little Christmas cheer by supporting its Meals on Wheels service.

This festive season, the charity will be delivering hundreds of traditional Christmas meals with all the trimmings, alongside its regular daily service bringing freshly prepared, hot nourishing meals to older people across the city.

With each meal service costing £7.50 to prepare and deliver, LifeCare relies on the generosity of local people and businesses to help meet growing demand throughout the winter months.

A small donation can make a big difference — ensuring that older residents continue to enjoy warm meals, friendly visits, and vital social connection all season long.

Donations can be made online at www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk  by calling 0131 343 0940, or in person at LifeCare’s community hub and CaféLife on Cheyne Street, Stockbridge.

Edinburgh Leisure launches unmissable £1 Black Friday Membership Deal

Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier than ever to kickstart your fitness journey in time for the festive season with an unbeatable offer: a £1 joining fee across all memberships, available for a limited time only from 14th – 30th November.

Whether you’re looking to swim, lift, climb, or stretch your way to better health, Edinburgh Leisure’s Full Fitness membership offers the best value in the city – giving you access to the widest range of activities across multiple venues, all with no contract and total flexibility.

This year’s offer is even more exciting with the inclusion of Evolve Meadowbank, a cutting-edge hybrid gym and Hyrox training club, now part of the Full Fitness package. It means more choice, more flexibility, and even greater value – all under one membership.

More Than Just a Gym

From state-of-the-art gyms and swimming pools to fitness classes, golf simulators, and climbing walls, Edinburgh Leisure offers something for everyone. And with a strong local focus, the campaign is shining a spotlight on three key venues:

  • Meadowbank Sports Centre – Featuring a modern gym, two fitness studios, Evolve Hybrid Gym, running track, and Café Refresh.
  • Leith Victoria Swim Centre – Home to a 25-yard Victorian pool, sauna, gym, and three group fitness studios.
  • Craiglockhart Leisure and Tennis Centre – Offering gym access, fitness classes, all at the home of tennis

Don’t Miss Out

This limited-time offer is your chance to join Edinburgh Leisure for just £1 plus the cost of whichever flexible membership you choose to suit your lifestyle and experience the breadth of fitness activities available across the city.

With no contract and local venues on your doorstep, there’s never been a better time to move more and feel great.

Offer valid from 14th – 28th November 2025.  Join now:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/black-friday

‘Broken’ careers service funding model to be reformed, UK Government confirms

‘just one meeting between jobseekers and advisors a year is like trying to fill an ocean with a teaspoon‘

Funding for careers advisors will be reformed, the UK Government has confirmed, following criticism of the current model in a report by a cross-party Committee of MPs.

Westminster’s Work and Pensions Committee’s Creating a new jobs and careers service report said that a combination of poor funding and badly designed targets had led to the service spending too little time with people and focusing too much on low impact interventions.

In its response to the report, the Government said that bringing “careers advice in England in house will end the current incentivised model and enable the development of a more integrated service”.

Careers advice in the UK is devolved, so these changes will not automatically apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Government also agreed with the Committee on the importance of recognising the distinct roles of work coaches and careers advisors. It added that it was looking into a “dedicated training pathway” for advisors in addition to the planned Coaching Academy for work coaches.  

MPs on the Committee made their recommendation following fears that the planned Jobcentre-careers service merger would eliminate the distinction between Work Coaches and Careers Advisors, which they thought would reduce the effectiveness of the service.

The DWP also committed to providing certainty to staff at the National Careers Service by publishing a transition plan in the next 6 months. Since publication of the report, the Government has moved to bring the contracts for careers advisors in-house, sparking concerns among advisors over what will happen when their contracts run out on 30 September 2026. 

Committee Chair, Debbie Abrahams said, “We welcome the Government’s recognition that the careers service funding model was broken and that it must be reformed.

“Budgeting, as it does now, for just one meeting between jobseekers and advisors a year is like trying to fill an ocean with a teaspoon.

“The job is about finding out enough about people, their ambitions and interests, their skills, the barriers they face, what drives them, their needs, in order for them to be effective. A new, less exclusive, model would help meet the goals of Government and get people into work that suits them; benefitting jobseekers, employers and ultimately, the economy.

“The recent brief shake-up will help. Giving the DWP sole responsibility over the adult skills brief, instead of sharing with the Department for Education, should help to reduce the incoherent patchwork of services that are available. And bringing the careers service in house, rather than outsourcing, will in time provide clearer lines of accountability, and greater efficiency.

“But we have to recognise that pressing on with little detail on what will happen after current contracts end in September 2026 has caused significant worry among careers advisors. Certainty on this could be the solid foundation that ensures the new system gets off to the best start.

“So, the Government really needs to crack on with fleshing out the detail of the service from 2027 to boost the confidence of advisors and in the new system.”

Heating support for pensioners begins

Financial support to help pensioners heat their homes this winter has started to roll out across the country. Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will provide support to at least 880,000 pensioners to help with heating bills. 

The first payments have been processed and have started to land in accounts. Payments will continue to be made throughout the winter. 

Eligible people of State Pension age will get a payment between £101.70 and £305.10 depending on their circumstances. Most people will receive their payment automatically – no action is needed.  

Everyone who is eligible will receive a letter with details of their payment. 

For pensioners with a taxable income of over £35,000, the payment will be taken back through the tax system during 2026/27. 

Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “We know that energy costs are too high, and that this will affect households across Scotland this winter.  

“Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will provide vital support for thousands of older people to help heat their homes and manage costs throughout the colder months. 

“People over the age of 66 don’t need to do anything – in the vast majority of cases, the payment will be made automatically to help towards a warmer winter.” 

  • The Scottish Fiscal Commission have forecast that around 1.055 million payments will be made in winter 2025-26, with the number of payments recovered estimated to be 169,000. Fiscal Update: August 2025  
  • Pension Age Winter Heating Payment replaces Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland and will be delivered by Social Security Scotland.

GrantonYouth Christmas Fair

SATURDAY 29 NOVEMBER 12 – 3pm

Granton Youth are having their annual Christmas fair on Saturday 29th November 2025 (12 – 3pm) at Granton Salvation Army (36 Wardieburn Drive).

We are still looking for donations for all the stalls if anyone would like to donate x

Police launch Operation Winter City 2025 campaign

POLICE in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City 2025 – the annual policing campaign to keep the public safe as they visit the city centre over the festive period.

There will be an enhanced presence of officers out on patrol to engage with people and offer reassurance and crime prevention advice, as well as to respond to any incidents that may arise.

Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said yesterday: “Anyone who’s ever visited Edinburgh over the festive period knows just how amazing the city is at this time of year.

“That’s why it’s important that our policing response is appropriate and proportionate to meet the demand of the additional visitors to the Capital, but to also reflect the very special atmosphere that is generated during Christmas and New Year.

“Local officers will be supported by colleagues from neighbouring divisions during patrols throughout the city-centre and anyone requiring assistance is welcome to come and speak to them, whether it’s to report a crime, or request information.

“On behalf of everyone within Edinburgh Division, I wish you all a safe, secure, and Merry Christmas.”

Read more: https://orlo.uk/JKcqZ