Month: November 2025

Strong Black Friday at The Centre

MINISO OPENING OFFERS TODAY

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, which has over 150 stores and restaurants including M&S, Flannels, wagamama and Wingstop said: said: “There was a great buzz in the shopping centre today as our shoppers enjoyed the Black Friday sales, snapping up some great bargains ahead of Christmas.  

“The opening of Flying Tiger on the day was an added bonus for fans of the brand who queued for over an hour prior to the launch and were treated to a special goody bag.

“We are also expecting the weekend ahead to be busy especially with the arrival of another new global brand to the shopping centre on Saturday, MINISO, which is renowned for its high-quality and affordable pop culture products and collectibles.”

Global lifestyle retailer MINISO, renowned for its high-quality and affordable pop culture products and collectibles, is delighted to announce the opening of its latest UK store in The Centre, Livingston on 29th November at 12pm.

Opening just in time for the festive season, the new MINISO store is a treasure trove of must-have gifts and goodies. From trending Vinyl Plush and collectible blind boxes to cute plush toys, beauty essentials, lifestyle accessories, and tasty treats, there’s something for everyone, perfect for stocking fillers and all your gift-giving needs this season.

Shoppers can also discover exclusive licensed collections, featuring Hello Kitty & Friends, Sylvanian Families, Harry Potter, and the all-new Disney Zootropolis 2 range, which launched nationwide in all stores on 24th November.

To celebrate the opening, the first 200 customers who spend a minimum of £5 will receive a special goody bag worth £25, while stocks last. 

“Opening our new store at The Centre, Livingston, allows us to connect with the local community and share the MINISO experience with more shoppers,” said Saad Usman, Chief Operating Officer at MINISO UK.

“We look forward to welcoming both loyal fans and first-time visitors to explore our wide range of high-quality, affordable products that brighten everyday life.”

Simon Eatough, Director at LCP UK, part of M Core and Asset Manager of The Centre, Livingston, said: “The opening of MINISO will be a fantastic addition to our existing diverse mix of retailers at the shopping centre.

“It continues to highlight our commitment to attracting even more global brands to The Centre, Livingston and enhancing the overall customer experience for our visitors.” 

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming MINISO to The Centre, Livingston, which is guaranteed to provide a fun and immersive adventure for our shoppers – both loyal fans and those who are new to the brand.” 

Join the celebration on 29th November and discover the joyful one-stop shop to elevate the ordinary.

‘Deep Concern’ over Flag-Raising

Joint Statement from Glasgow Jewish Representative Council, Jewish Council of Scotland and Board of Deputies of British Jews in Response to Planned Annual Palestinian Flag-Raising In Glasgow:

“We are deeply concerned by the combined Palestine-Saltire flags being flown on council property in Scotland.

“This campaign is politicising public property in way that appears intentionally divisive, causing significant distress to many within the Jewish community, particularly in Glasgow and Edinburgh.”

“We are also troubled that Glasgow City Council’s 2024 decision to introduce an annual Palestinian flag-raising linked with the UN’s International Day of Solidarity has, in the current climate, contributed to the concerns felt within the Jewish community.

“These developments have highlighted the need for careful, sensitive decision-making in civic spaces.  As we have consistently raised with local and Scottish government, it is vital that the Israel-Palestine conflict is not imported into civic spaces in ways that risk deepening division.  Local authorities should instead prioritise fostering community cohesion and mutual respect.

“Every community in Scotland must have confidence that civic decisions are guided by fairness, balance and a commitment to mutual respect.  We remain committed to working constructively with both councils and the Scottish government to ensure that all communities feel safe and respected.”

TODAY: Fair Saturday Scotland

It’s Fair Saturday Scotland! 🎉

Artists and cultural organisations from Scotland and all around the world will get together in a global festival that puts the arts at the very centre and supports a social project or the community at every event.

At Out of the Blue, we’re excited to be taking part with two events: the November Flea Market at the Drill Hall and the Winter Open Studios at Out of the Blue Abbeymount Studios.

🌟 November Flea Market

📆 Saturday 29th November, 10am – 3pm

📍The Out of the Blue Drill Hall

➡️ Browse from over 45 stalls packed with pre-loved items, from clothes and jewellery to books, antiques and other collectibles.

🌟 Winter Open Studios

📆 Saturday 29th November, 12noon – 5pm

📍Out of the Blue Abbeymount Studios

➡️ Come and meet over 40 resident artists and makers and browse an exciting variety of works, many of which are for sale. Everything is handmade at the studios.

To find out more about what else is going on throughout Edinburgh for Fair Saturday Scotland, just take a look at their website:

2025-Scotland-Programme-17_compressedDownload

https://fairsaturday.pulse.ly/2apzdou4vu

Supporting regional partnerships to drive growth

Empowering regions to make the decisions that are right for them

Regional economic partnerships can further boost local economies and support jobs across Scotland, First Minister John Swinney has said.

In a speech to the Glasgow State of the City Economy Conference, the First Minister outlined proposed legislation – to be introduced in the next Parliament subject to the election outcome – that would help regional partnerships to unlock new powers and deliver on local priorities.

Speaking in Glasgow, the First Minister said: “Glasgow and Scotland are well placed to flourish in the years ahead.

“It is because we are so blessed that I am all the more determined to deliver on my government’s central economic mission: to increase the wealth and wellbeing our citizens by building a more productive, more dynamic, and more regionally balanced economy  driven by innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.

“Therefore capable of achieving the governments aims of eradicating child poverty, enabling our transition to net zero and strengthening our public services, particularly the National Health Service.

“I want our regional partnerships like Glasgow City Region, to have the opportunity to expand their strategic capacities and role, with a package of additional devolved competencies available over time.

“On the table, powers such as skills, economic development and planning.

“That includes empowering Scotland’s regions because working in partnership with national government, it is our regions that are best placed to drive inclusive economic growth in a way that is both local and strategic.”

COSLA Environment and Economy Spokesperson, Cllr Gail Macgregor said: “As we’ve made clear in our Manifesto, councils can make places thrive, investing in public spaces, transport systems and local economies.

“A place-based approach to policymaking is essential. Looking to the future, we are seeking to maximise the benefits that regional economies can realise, and the First Minister’s announcement today is a positive step in that journey.

“I particularly welcome the place-based flexibility and empowerment suggested, and look forward to working with partners to develop these proposals further.”

Leader of Glasgow City Council Susan Aitken said: “Glasgow City Region is already one of the UK’s biggest collaborative success stories – but we need the backing of both our governments to truly empower us to unlock its extraordinary potential.

“I’m delighted that the First Minister has today recognised our region holds the country’s most compelling opportunity for inclusive economic growth, equity, innovation and transformation.

“His commitment puts the devolution of powers and resources to Scotland’s communities firmly on the national agenda – and Glasgow City Region is more than ready to lead the way.”

The Real Mary King’s Close unveils festive events exploring the Edinburgh’s hidden past

This December, The Real Mary King’s Close invites visitors to escape into Edinburgh’s past with two interactive underground experiences: the return of its sell-out Victorian Christmas Experience and the once-a-year revival of Underground Unlocked.

The Victorian Christmas Experience, running across all weekends from Saturday 6th to Friday 28th December, brings guests face to face with a member of the Chesney family, among some of the last to live on the Close.

Through expert-storytelling, visitors will discover how Christmas slowly re-emerged in Scotland after centuries of suppression, and how Victorian Edinburgh shaped many traditions we still enjoy today.

Following the guided tour, visitors will gather in a candlelit room to enjoy tea, traditional scones with jam and clotted cream, and a craft activity inspired by authentic Victorian practices.

December will also see the return of the exclusive Underground Unlocked tours, offering two special evenings on Thursday 4th and 11th where visitors can roam freely through the preserved 17th-century streets at their own pace.

Rather than following a guided tour, guests will encounter a number of historical residents including merchants, plague doctors, poets, businesswomen and even those once condemned during the witch trials, each sharing their own vivid story.

For just a few hours, the Close will echo with the bustle of the people who once lived and worked beneath the Royal Mile.

Characters include Mary King herself, the sharp-witted merchant and burgess; Patrick Byrne the leather tanner; Dr John Paulitious, Edinburgh’s first plague doctor; Marie Maitland, the bold poet whose verses were hidden for centuries; and Euphame MacCalzean, determined to reclaim her voice after a wrongful accusation during the witch trials.

With more than a dozen figures appearing across the site, every turn reveals a new fragment of the city’s hidden history and offers a fleeting glimpse into Edinburgh’s past as it might’ve felt centuries ago. 

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close said: “December is always packed with events, and we know people have so much to choose from.

“That’s why we’re excited to offer something a bit different – an immersive festive experience that the whole family can enjoy together.

“It’s a fun and interactive way to learn more about Edinburgh’s past, and after the overwhelming response last year, we’re delighted to bring it back. 

“We’re also reintroducing our ever-popular Underground Unlocked evenings, which remain one of the most memorable ways to experience the Close. Together, the two events offer something truly unique for anyone looking to do Christmas a little differently this year.”

For more information and bookings please visit www.realmarykingsclose.com 

Child sexual abuser jailed

A 69-year-old man has been jailed for three years and nine months following an intelligence-led operation into online child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Paul Chalmers was sentenced at Edinburgh High Court today – Friday, 28 November, 2025, for the offences, which included conspiracy to rape a child.

He has also been given an order of lifelong restriction.

Chalmers was arrested by officers on Thursday, 25 January, 2024 when he travelled to Edinburgh to meet with what he believed to be a child he had been engaging with online.

He pled guilty to the offences at Glasgow High Court on Monday, 3 February, 2025.

Detective Chief Inspector David Nairn said: “Paul Chalmers is a predatory individual and, as a result of our investigation, he now faces the consequences of his sickening actions.

“He may have believed that his offending would go undetected however there is no hiding place.

“Any form of child sexual abuse is a serious criminal offence, and we encourage anyone with concerns about a child as risk of abuse, or a potential victim to contact Police Scotland on 101.

“Police Scotland’s #GetHelpOrGetCaught campaign proactively targets those who are either already offending or at risk of offending online and provides signposts to available support.”

Local history writing competition

📣 Calling all Edinburgh storytellers & history lovers!

The William Anderson Award for Local History Projects is back 🎉

We’re inviting Edinburgh residents aged 18 years and over to submit an original essay (1,500–2,000 words) exploring the city’s rich past, inspired by the themes of Edinburgh 900 — from royal connections and faith to innovation, Enlightenment, and beyond.

The list of themes can be found at www.edinburgh.org/900/themes

✍️ Entries open: 1 October 2025

⏳ Deadline: 31 December 2025

🏆 A financial prize of £200 will be awarded to the winning project, supported by the descendants of William Anderson’s family in Canada. A printed copy of the winning entry will be placed in the Edinburgh and Scottish Collection at Central Library for reference.

Submissions to be sent to localhistory@edinburgh.gov.uk

Help us celebrate Edinburgh’s story and shape its legacy! 🌟

Edinburgh TV presenter opens up on Cancer Diagnosis after noticing ‘Unusual Lump’

BE THE EARLY BIRD CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED

BBC Scotland Reporter, David Cowan, has opened up on his experience with mouth cancer after finding a lump in his neck led to his diagnosis and successful treatment.

After looking up his symptoms on the NHS website, the Edinburgh journalist booked a GP appointment, in a decision that meant his mouth cancer was detected early, giving him a 90% chance of successful treatment.

David says the treatment was tough, but by June 2018 he was given the all-clear. Seven years on, he’s living well, enjoying life with his family and their dog, and supporting Mouth Cancer Action Month to raise awareness as part of Scottish Government’s ‘Be The Early Bird’ campaign:

‘BE THE EARLY BIRD’ CASE STUDY – DAVID COWAN

David Cowan, 58, Edinburgh – “It’s far better to know whether you’ve got cancer or not, you need to not delay and get it checked out.”

In late 2017, TV reporter David Cowan, from Edinburgh, noticed a small, hard, painless lump in his neck just weeks after his 50th birthday. After checking the NHS website, he booked a GP appointment, a decision he now credits with saving his life.

“My awareness of mouth cancer was pretty much very, very superficial. I knew it existed. I knew the dentists checked when they examined you, to see if there were any warning signs there, but it never occurred to me that it would happen to me.

“I was also blissfully unaware that the human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to mouth cancer in a significant number of cases. I knew very little about it and had no real understanding of the risks it can pose.

“A few weeks after my 50th birthday, I noticed a lump in my neck, it was about the size of a wine gum. It was hard, just underneath my jaw line, and it wasn’t sore, and it just appeared.

“I thought that’s strange. I didn’t do anything about it for a few days. I thought it would go away, then I decided to look up my symptoms on the NHS website, and the advice came up very clearly that if you’ve got a painless, hard lump in your neck that doesn’t go away, you should contact your GP practice.

“They immediately referred me to specialists.  My GP later told me she thought straight away that it could be cancer.

“I was sent to a NHS Lothian clinic in Edinburgh for tests and about a month later, another doctor felt the lump on my neck and said, ‘that’s cancer.’  

“Because it had been found early, I was told there was a 90% chance of the treatment being successful.

“The treatment process was hard, I lost two stones and was off work for five months, but of course it was worth it, because I’m still here.

“It’s not pleasant treatment if you have mouth cancer, and my consultant had warned me about that from the start.

“They explained what was going to happen, and I remember, during treatment, thinking, ‘they did warn me this would happen.’

“I had no real hesitation in getting my symptom checked out because the NHS website told me to do that, and I’m very glad I did. Thinking that you might have cancer is scary, but it’s far better to know than just sitting there in the dark and delaying getting symptoms checked out.”

“I felt like I was in the expert embrace of the NHS; my experience was extremely positive throughout the whole thing. People talk about fighting cancer, I felt the NHS fought my cancer for me, and I just went along for the ride.”

“I also had fantastic support from family, friends and work colleagues. They helped me approach the whole experience in a positive way, which the doctors told me was very important.”

“I got the all-clear in June 2018. It was a massive relief. Lots of great things have happened in the seven years since I had cancer that I might have been deprived of had I not got back to full health with the help of the NHS.”

“I now try to appreciate the smaller things in life more and just remember how fortunate I am to be here.

“Having cancer is a life-changing event, but now I’m living well and enjoying life with my family and our dog.”

David was asked to share his story and the benefits of early detection as part of the Be the Early Bird campaign and to raise awareness amidst Mouth Cancer Action Month in November.

“We do need to raise more awareness of mouth cancer. I was told my mouth cancer was relatively rare, but was becoming more common. I’m delighted to see that young boys, as well as girls, are now getting human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations in school to help prevent this happening to them.

“It doesn’t matter where the cancer is, if you get it detected early, you’ve got a better chance of successful treatment. The crucial thing about cancer is getting treated as early as you possibly can, and that means if people are worried about something, they have to seek help, no matter how scary it might be.

“I feel very lucky to be here. The message of the Be the Early Bird campaign this Mouth Cancer Action Month is, if you’re worried about something, no matter if you have reservations about going, please go and get it checked out.”

Go to getcheckedearly.org to find out more