The Electoral Commission is calling for the Scottish Parliament Election on May 7 to be free of abuse and intimidation.
In recent elections, candidates have faced unacceptable behaviour while campaigning, including harassment, threats and physical intimidation. Following the UK Parliament General Election in 2024, Commission research found over half (55%) of candidates felt that they had some kind of problem with harassment, intimidation, or abuse, with one in ten (13%) reporting it as a serious issue.
This led to more than half (56%) of respondents avoiding some kind of campaign activity due to fear of abuse. Women were also found to be twice as likely, and ethnic minorities three times more likely, to report serious abuse.
With the poll still six weeks away, the Electoral Commission is acting now to tackle the issue alongside partners including the Electoral Management Board for Scotland and Police Scotland. This includes supporting electoral administrators to ensure the safe and effective delivery of the election, including through providing guidance on their powers at polling stations and the count, so everyone can participate freely and without intimidation.
The Commission has published a set of principles to guide campaigning at the May elections, with a focus on maintaining respect, safety and honesty during robust debate. Created in response to recommendations made by the Speaker’s Conference on the security of MPs, candidates and elections, the principles build on common themes across parties existing codes of conducts, and aim to put in place a common, minimum standard of behaviour, to make sure that campaigners feel supported and protected.
Education also plays a critical role in tackling abuse by preparing young people to participate in democracy. The Commission is delivering democratic education for young people and New Scots to support media literacy and improve understanding of the role of the Scottish Parliament and its politicians.
Cahir Hughes, Acting Head of the Electoral Commission Scotland, said:“Abuse and intimidation should not be seen as part of the job for candidates , elected officials or electoral staff. This behaviour is unacceptable and harms democracy.
“Clear principles to help people take part in respectful campaigning are available, and we would encourage all parties and candidates to engage with the safety resources and briefings provided by Police Scotland.
“We will also continue to speak out against online harassment and threats directed at those taking part in elections and have made recommendations to social media companies to strengthen their response to abusive content.”
Malcolm Burr, Convener of the Electoral Management Board for Scotland, said: “Returning Officers and their staff will not hesitate to exclude anyone from polling places or the count if they disrupt proceedings.
“Any poor behaviour from candidates and agents undermines trust in the whole system. Voters must have confidence that the election will be run in a free, fair and safe manner for all.”
Chief Superintendent Neil MacDougall, Police Scotland, said:“Advice and briefings are being provided by Police Scotland to maximise the safety of candidates, minimise any risk of disruption and ensure a peaceful democratic process. All reports of criminality will be subject to an investigation.
“We continue to work with partners, including the Electoral Commission, and will liaise closely with local authority returning officers across Scotland regarding security at polling places.”
NO such problems at the Edinburgh Northern Hustings organised by Drylaw Telford Community Council at Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre last night.
It was all very civilised – we even had a Conservative candidate agreeing with his Communist opponent! – Ed.
Millions of motor finance customers will receive compensation this year under an FCA scheme for those treated unfairly by firms who broke the law by failing to disclose important information.
Consumers were denied the chance to seek a better deal and, in some instances, paid more for their loan.
The FCA has made several changes to the free to use scheme in response to conflicting feedback from consumers, their representatives, firms, manufacturers and industry bodies.
This ensures it is fair for consumers and proportionate for firms. The eligibility criteria have been tightened, average compensation increased for older agreements and a minimum 3% compensatory interest rate per annum added. Payouts will be capped in around 1 in 3 cases to ensure no one is put in a better position than had they been treated fairly.
12.1 million agreements made between 2007 and 2024 are now eligible for compensation, fewer than under the FCA’s original proposals. The average payout has increased to around £830 per agreement. The FCA estimates that 75% of eligible consumers will make a claim. If so, total redress paid would be £7.5bn.
Nikhil Rathi, chief executive of the FCA, said: ‘We’ve listened to feedback to make sure the scheme is fair for consumers and proportionate for firms. It will put £7.5 billion back into people’s pockets.
‘Now we need everyone to get behind it and ensure millions get their money this year. Payouts should not be delayed any longer, especially as household bills come under greater pressure.
“Delivering compensation promptly also gives lenders the chance to rebuild trust, and means we can draw a line under the past and support a healthy motor finance market for the future.’
An industry-wide scheme is the most efficient way of compensating affected consumers while supporting the ongoing availability of competitively priced motor finance for millions who rely on it. Without such a scheme, the cost to lenders of dealing with complaints through the Ombudsman or courts is estimated to be over £6bn higher.
How the scheme will work
Motor finance loans taken out between 6 April 2007 to 1 November 2024 are covered.
There will be a short implementation period so firms can prepare. This will be up to:
30 June 2026 for loans taken out from 1 April 2014.
31 August 2026 for those agreed earlier.
Lenders will have 3 months from the end of the implementation period to inform complainants whether they’re owed compensation and how much. This means that people who have already complained or who complain before the end of the relevant implementation period will be compensated sooner.
Lenders will only contact people who haven’t complained if they are likely to be owed money. They have 6 months from the end of the relevant implementation period to do so. This avoids unnecessary and potentially confusing communication with people who won’t get compensation. Anyone not contacted has until 31 August 2027 to make a claim.
Claims for high value loans – amounts higher than 99.5% of other loans that year – are not covered by the scheme, which is designed for the mass market. These consumers can still complain to firms and the Financial Ombudsman Service.
People will only be compensated if they were not told clearly that either:
Their dealer or broker set the interest rate to earn more commission (using a discretionary commission arrangement – DCA).
The commission was high – at least 39% of the total cost of credit and 10% of the loan.
The dealer or broker was using one lender or gave one lender the right of first refusal, (a so-called tied arrangement), except where lenders can evidence that there were visible links with a manufacturer and franchised dealer. For example, where they shared a common or similar name.
There will be some exceptions, with cases considered fair, if:
The commission was £120 or less for agreements beginning before 1 April 2014 and £150 or less from that date. Commission amounts below those levels are unlikely to have influenced the broker’s behaviour or consumer’s decision.
The borrower wasn’t charged interest.
The DCA wasn’t used to earn discretionary commission.
The lender can prove, in certain limited circumstances, it was fair not to disclose one of the arrangements above or that the consumer did not suffer any loss. For example, if no better deal was available.
Where the commission was very high (50% of the total cost of credit and 22.5% of the loan) and another relevant factor of unfairness existed, consumers will receive the commission paid.
For most people compensation will be made up of 2 parts, the average of:
The commission paid; and
The estimated loss, based on a percentage discount of the interest (APR) they paid – 17% for cases from April 2014 and 21% for earlier agreements, to reflect greater loss then.
Consumers should not be put back in a better position than they would have been had they been treated fairly or than those who suffered the most unfairness, so in around 1 in 3 cases, compensation will be capped.
Interest will be paid on compensation, based on the annual average Bank of England base rate per year plus 1%, at a minimum of 3% in any year.
The FCA has established a dedicated supervisory team, led by a Director, to monitor if firms are meeting the scheme’s rules and act if they’re not. If people disagree with their firm’s decision, the Financial Ombudsman will be able to assess whether the scheme rules have been followed.
The FCA has also joined with the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Information Commissioner’s Office and Advertising Standards Authority to launch a taskforce to tackle poor handling of motor finance claims by some claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms.
The taskforce is the latest measure by regulators to improve standards. The FCA has already removed or amended 800 misleading adverts, over 28,000 consumers have been able to exit contracts free of charge, and 3 CMCs reduced their high fees, protecting over 500,000 consumers.
Consumers can choose not to take part in the FCA’s compensation scheme and instead go to court, where they may get more or less compensation, based on the facts of their case. However, the outcome of a court claim is uncertain and accounting for legal fees they may pay, many consumers could end up with less. The FCA’s scheme is also likely to be faster and simpler.
Advice for motor finance customers
If you are concerned you were treated unfairly, make a complaint. People who complain before the relevant implementation period ends will be compensated sooner.
There is information on how to complain for free on the FCA website. There is no need to use a claims management company or law firm. If you do, you could lose over 30% of any money you get.
If you don’t complain and are owed money, your lender should contact you by end 2026 for post 1 April 2014 agreements and end February 2027 for agreements started between 6 April 2007 and 31 March 2014.
Watch out for scams. You can check you are dealing with your genuine lender using the contact details listed on the FCA website or through the FCA’s new motor finance scams helpline. You shouldn’t pay a fee to access compensation, or share sensitive details such as your PIN or online banking details.
Aidan Rushby, CEO and founder of car finance organisationCarmoola, said:“Millions of drivers could receive compensation after not being fully informed about how broker incentives affected the cost of their finance. The FCA has now confirmed a framework for putting that right.
“What matters now is whether drivers actually receive compensation quickly, clearly and without hassle.
“Redress must reflect genuine harm. But it must also be applied proportionately and consistently. Restoring confidence depends on delivering compensation clearly, consistently and as quickly as possible.
“Our research shows 73% of drivers say access to fair and affordable finance is crucial to owning a car, and 61% worry it could become harder to access. That balance is critical.
“We believe car finance should be simple to understand, transparent in how it works, and fair in how it treats people. Trust now has to be earned. That is a healthy shift for the market.”
This April, immerse yourself amongst the stars with our adults-only Stargazing Late & Live show!
Our resident astronomers will guide you across the cosmos, delving into their favourite sights to see along the way. You’ll gaze up at Edinburgh’s night sky, visit distant worlds and view space through the lenses of state-of-the-art telescopes.
Don’t miss out-of-this-world insights and stunning imagery in Edinburgh’s only Planetarium as part of Edinburgh Science Festival.
Discover our line-up of adults-only Planetarium Lates this April:
Award-winning Chef Mandeep Saini swaps tradition for deep-fried naan and masala mash in a Sunday roast unlike anything Scotland has seen before
This Easter, one Edinburgh restaurant is turning the nation’s most beloved meal into a taste sensation. Bombay Bistro, the boldly spiced Indian-fusion restaurant on Bruntsfield Place is serving what may be Scotland’s most talked-about Easter roast – and it comes with a unique Bombay twist.
Diners can choose between tender slow-roasted lamb or succulent chicken, served with buttered cabbage, sweet carrots and peas, and rich gravy. But it’s the details that set this roast apart – silky masala mash in place of buttered potatoes and a deep-fried naan, rather than a Yorkshire pudding.
Behind the menu is Chef Mandeep Saini, formerly head chef at Gleneagles and The Berkeley in London, and one of Scotland’s most celebrated culinary talents.
“The Sunday roast is one of the nation’s favourite food traditions – and that’s exactly why I wanted to reimagine it,” says Chef Mandeep.
“We haven’t replaced it – we’ve elevated it. Every element in Bombay Bistro’s Sunday Roast has a depth of flavour and spice that makes it completely unforgettable..”
At a time when diners are seeking bold, experience-led eating, Bombay Bistro’s Sunday Roast offers something genuinely rare – a dish rooted in tradition, elevated by world-class technique.
Bombay Bistro is located at 14-17 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4HN. Sunday Roasts are available every Sunday. To book, please visit the website here.
More than a third of people in the UK believe in ghosts and supernatural beings [1], and experts say sightings aren’t limited to Halloween. With tourist season starting to pick up over Easter and the bank holidays, encounters at the UK’s top attractions may become more frequent.
Online psychic chat company Psychic World analysed thousands of ghost reports across the UK, mapping haunted sites within the local area and ranking by both the number of nearby hauntings and the frequency of chilling encounters in visitor reports.
Which UK attraction is most haunted?
Attraction name
Location
Haunted sites within 500m
Supernatural mentions
Spooky Score / 10
1
Mary King’s Close
Edinburgh, Scotland
28
26
9.75
2
Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
London, England
9
9
9.22
3
York Minster
York, England
39
39
8.95
4
Gloucester Cathedral
Gloucestershire, England
16
16
8.65
5
Pluckley Village
Kent, England
2
1
8.38
6
Newcastle Castle
Newcastle, England
16
21
8.27
7
Edinburgh Dungeon
Edinburgh, Scotland
24
18
8.17
8
Dudley Castle
West Midlands, England
8
3
7.85
9
Shepton Mallet Prison
Shepton Mallet, England
2
9
7.84
10
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, Scotland
14
13
7.64
11
Chislehurst Caves
Kent, England
2
3
7.45
12
Warwick Castle
Warwickshire, England
3
11
7.39
13
Arundel Castle
West Sussex, England
6
5
7.17
14
Stirling Castle
Stirling, Scotland
7
4
6.30
15
Margam Castle
Port Talbot, Wales
2
7
6.23
Scotland’s capital is now home to the UK’s most haunted attraction, Mary King’s Close.
Mary King’s Closein Scotland earns a spooky score of 9.75 out of 10 thanks to the many haunted sites within 300m of the historical landmark.
The historic close has had a reputation for hauntings since the 17th century, with the most famous story of a little girl nicknamed Annie, a melancholy, lonely ghost.
Additionally, noises, doors slamming by themselves, oranges cutting themselves in half, and a clock repeatedly stopping working at 4.15 am have been noted.
True to its reputation, Edinburgh ranks three times within the top 10, more than any other UK city, while Scotland is mentioned four times in the top 15.
The second most haunted attraction in the UK is Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in London. A West End theatre home to some of the world’s most exciting musicals now has a spooky score of 9.22 out of 10.
It’s said that actor William Terriss’ ghost has been seen at the theatre in a grey suit and white gloves, following his murder in 1897, alongside others in the area.
Frequently named the most haunted city in Europe, York is still worthy of its title, according to Psychic World’s analysis. With an estimated 600,000 people buried in church graveyards and other sites under its streets,
York Minster, the Anglican cathedral in North Yorkshire, has a spooky score of 8.95 out of 10 and 39 haunted sites nearby.
The sound of children singing and laughing has been heard coming from a nearby passage, and one witness reported the feeling of a small hand placing itself in his, although no one was visible.
Fourth is Gloucester Cathedral, with a spooky score of 8.65, with 16 haunted sites within 500m of the attraction. A ghost with a hunched back is said to wander around the pub and cellar, knocking the elbows of people as they raise their glass for a drink, and sometimes the furniture in the pub is found to have been rearranged overnight.
Rounding out the top five is Pluckley Village in Kent, which earns a spooky score of 8.38 out of 10. This historic village is known as one of the most haunted in England, being home to 12 ‘official’ ghosts. One of the most famous is Lady Dering, who is sometimes sighted in the churchyard of St Nicholas following her death in the 12th century.-
Unveiling Yaniv Edery Gallery: International artist opens new Edinburgh venue for contemporary art and exclusive events
A new gallery showcasing the work of internationally acclaimed artist, Yaniv Edery, is opening in the heart of Edinburgh, establishing a world-class destination for contemporary art and exclusive private events.
Housed within an elegant Georgian townhouse on the city’s historic Picardy Place, Yaniv Edery Gallery officially opened on Thursday (26 March 2026) marking the artist’s UK debut.
The new gallery, Yaniv Edery’s first in the UK, presents his vibrant, immersive collection of artworks that has captivated audiences worldwide, from private collectors to luxury venues across the globe.
The destination is also introducing a unique new luxury events venue in Edinburgh, available for private hire for weddings and exclusive occasions.
Born in Casablanca, Morocco in 1977, Yaniv’s artistic journey began in fashion and textile design before evolving into a distinctive contemporary practice.
A self-taught artist, he has developed a one-of-a-kind technique through years of experimentation, layering resin over carefully injected acrylic and ink on brushed aluminium. The result is richly textured works with striking dimensionality, extraordinary depth and intricate detail.
Blending bold colour with luxury motifs, Yaniv’s signature animal portraits incorporate resin, crystals, and metallic finishes to create light, reactive pieces that blur the line between pop art and contemporary sculpture.
Each piece is a dynamic, almost living work revealing intricate detail, encouraging viewers to engage with each artwork from multiple perspectives.
Yaniv Edery said:“I’m proud to present my collection in this extraordinary new setting in Edinburgh, a city rich in art, history and culture. This new gallery is designed to bring contemporary art and curated events together, creating a unique experience where audiences can connect with vibrant, immersive works.
“Art is constantly evolving, and my aim is to celebrate this growth by combining creativity, luxury, and pop culture in a way that engages, inspires, and surprises. I hope this gallery becomes a special place where people come together to explore, reflect, and celebrate, while hosting unforgettable private occasions.”
Throughout his career, Yaniv Edery has led several unique collaborations that blend styles and disciplines. Among the most notable, he was honoured to create a custom piano for Stevie Wonder and to paint family portraits for an array of international celebrities.
Now based in Monaco, Yaniv enjoys international recognition and is represented by prestigious galleries worldwide. His work has been exhibited at Art Basel in Miami, one of the world’s most renowned art fairs, and he was selected as the opening artist for the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
For the past eight years, Yaniv has been the official artist of the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. His pieces also reside in prestigious private collections, including the Royal Palace of Monaco, as well as the homes of Formula One drivers Valtteri Bottas and Charles Leclerc.
The opening marks Yaniv’s first UK gallery, bringing his creative vision to Edinburgh in a space that seamlessly merges contemporary art with a refined event setting.
Located within a UNESCO World Heritage site on 4 Picardy Place, famously the birthplace of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the gallery preserves its classical architectural character while providing a striking backdrop for the distinctive artworks and a versatile setting for events.
Featuring a dedicated function room, reception bar, private basement bar, and boutique suites, the venue combines elegance with versatility, making it ideal for intimate weddings, private gatherings, exclusive business events and celebrations.
Yaniv Edery Gallery operates seven days a week for private viewings by appointment, offering visitors the chance to experience the artist’s immersive works firsthand and explore the event spaces. It is also available for private event hire seven days.
Pricing is available from the gallery on enquiry, but each artwork is produced in a limited-edition collection of five copies per size, a conscious choice that preserves exclusivity while maintaining accessible pricing, despite the complexity and cost of the artist’s process. It is also possible to commission a unique, fully customised, bespoke piece of artwork.
For further information on visiting the gallery or hosting private events, visit:
New figures show most drivers are sticking to Easter travel plans, despite surging fuel prices
Drivers are committed to making the most of the four-day Easter bank holiday despite sharply rising fuel prices, with nearly 21m leisure journeys planned, according to a new study of drivers’ getaway plans by the RAC and traffic analytics specialists INRIX.*
With over a million more trips planned than last year, this Easter weekend is set to be the busiest on the roads since 2022 – which was the first full getaway after the Covid lockdowns.
RAC data suggests traffic will be at its busiest on Good Friday 3rd April with drivers planning around 3.3m leisure trips. Over 2.3m trips are planned on Thursday 2nd, while drivers are expected to make 3m journeys on Saturday 4th. The number of trips planned drops slightly on Easter Sunday to 2.3m, before increasing again to a further 3m on bank holiday Monday as travellers return home.
A further 6.7m journeys are anticipated at some point over the Easter bank holiday weekend, with drivers undecided on their exact date of travel. But with some early indications that the weather could warm up in time for the weekend, the number of ad hoc journeys could rise.
New separate research by the RAC also shows that while 31% of drivers are increasingly worried about rising fuel costs – driven by the current conflict in the Middle East that has seen pump prices soaring – most aren’t changing their plans. Only 6% expect to drive shorter distances and another 6% say they won’t drive at all, as a direct result of the higher prices.*
This is despite the fact that filling up a typical diesel family car this Easter will cost at least £19 more than it did on Good Friday in 2025, and a tank of petrol nearly £8 more, with further increases likely.
On Thursday 2nd – the day when many schools break up for the Easter holidays – some of the worst delays of more than 40 minutes are expected on the M25 clockwise between J15 and J19 around 2.45pm, and on the M4 westbound across the Prince of Wales Bridge towards Bridgend with delays of an hour and a quarter in the evening, according to data from INRIX. The anticlockwise stretch from J17 to J12 will also see similar delays closer around 4pm, close to the evening rush-hour.
Meanwhile, on Good Friday, many major roads are expected to be busy throughout the day from 10am-7pm. The M5 southbound between J15 at the RAC tower north of Bristol and J23 for Bridgwater – a key holiday route – could see journey times extended by more than 50 minutes at lunchtime, while the M25 anticlockwise between J17 and J12 may see delays of 30 minutes mid-morning, nearly trebling normal journey times.
On Saturday 4th, drivers are advised to avoid 10am to midday when traffic will be at its busiest. The M40 northbound from J12 to the Umberslade interchange with the M42 will see delays of around 48 minutes at 11am, with journey times almost four times longer than usual.
The roads are expected to be busy for most of Easter Monday 6th April as families return from their Easter trips. Delays of over an hour (65 minutes) are expected at midday in the South West on the M5 northbound between J25 for Taunton and J15 at the RAC tower.
Elsewhere, the M25 clockwise between J15 to J19 will be hit with queues at 5.30pm, with journeys taking over 38 minutes longer than usual, double usual travel times.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin said: “The Easter bank holiday getaway is traditionally one of the biggest of the year, and 2026 looks no different.
“In fact, the number of planned leisure journeys by car has risen for the second year running and as a result we expect this to be the busiest Easter on the roads since 2022, when the country opened up after the Covid lockdown.
“Despite fuel prices rising dramatically due to the conflict in the Middle East, our research suggests Easter remains incredibly important to people as it’s often the first chance to get away since Christmas or to meet up with friends and family.
“While a significant number of drivers are concerned about rising fuel prices, a much smaller contingent are actually changing their plans this Easter as a result. This is despite the cost of filling up a family diesel car increasing by around £19 compared to this time last year, and a tank of petrol being £8 more expensive. In the face of rising prices, we urge everyone to use the myRACapp to find the cheapest forecourts near them.
“We expect traffic levels to be consistently high from Thursday when many schools break up. We advise drivers to plan for the best time to travel if they want to avoid significant queues, especially in traffic hotspot areas such as the M5 heading towards Devon and Cornwall and the M25. Congestion is likely to be at its worst from 10am from Thursday to Saturday and on Easter Monday, so leaving early in the morning is the best way to avoid the jams.
“The Easter bank holiday is always a particularly busy period for our patrols, but many breakdowns can be avoided if drivers ensure their vehicles are fully prepared before they travel. It’s still not too late to book an RAC Mobile Mechanic who can service or repair cars at home or at work, removing the need to visit a garage and giving drivers peace of mind their vehicles are fit for a long road trip.”
National Highways’ traffic contraflow system, ‘Operation Brock’, will be in place throughout the Easter weekend from 1st to 7thApril, with lorries travelling to the Port of Dover being directed to a specific lane at Junction 8 of the M20.
Port of Dover chief executive Doug Bannister said: “The port is preparing for a busy Easter getaway period, with an early increase in traffic expected from Friday 27th and Saturday 28th, followed by the predicted getaway volumes through to mid-April.
“Between Thursday 2nd and Sunday 19th April, we will welcome in the region of 37,000 cars through the port. To help ensure a smooth departure, we kindly ask all customers travelling with our ferry partners not to arrive any earlier than two hours before their scheduled sailing, just as you would if departing from a UK airport.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience, should there be any additional waiting time due to the increase in traffic levels.”
For drivers planning a long Easter getaway journey, the RAC advises booking an appointment with one of its Mobile Mechanics. RAC Mobile Mechanics can complete services and repairs on the driveway or at a customer’s place of work, giving drivers peace of mind before they lhit the roads.
The Scottish Ambulace Service has been issuing text messages via GOV.Notify to patients to gather their feedback on their experiences with the service.
To date, feedback messages have been sent to patients who have used the Falls pathways, those who experienced breathing difficulties, NHS24 callers who were transferred onto SAS, and patients who were triaged through our clinical hub and did not require an ambulance.
The primary aim of gathering patient experience data is to understand how patients are treated, identify service gaps, support learning and development, and inform resource allocation and service improvements.
SAS will be issuing text messages to patients who have experienced breathing difficulties and falls.
The text will be issued via GOV.Notify and link to a Webropol survey. If you receive this text, please complete the survey so we can ensure the Scottish Ambulance Service is proving the right care in the right place.
See behind the scenes as Castle’s Crown Room gets a right royal makeover
Work is progressing on redevelopment of the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle, the historic home of the Crown, Sword and Sceptre which make up the Honours of Scotland.
Since the Crown Room closed its vault doors in January, significant refurbishment has been underway to enhance the display of the Honours. Elements of the Victorian design are being restored, including the room’s oak panelling. New oak shields have been carved by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) joiners to return these features to the original, simpler form that would have decorated the display at that time.
A new, bespoke display case for the Honours is also being installed. This has been designed to continue to keep these priceless objects physically secure, environmentally stable and looking their best for the 2m visitors who flock to the site each year.
The project has also provided a historic opportunity for a new generation of craftspeople to hone their skills. John Lamb, Third Year Apprentice Joiner at HES, has been working on the oak panelling conservation and creation of the new shields, while Mackenzie Francis, Second Year Apprentice Painter, has been painting the doors of the Crown Room.
Speaking about his involvement in the project, John said: “I’ve been able to work across all joinery aspects of the Crown Room refurbishment, which has been a really great opportunity.
“I’ve learned to use different router techniques while working on the new shields, and I’ve learned so much already working with the other joiners.”
Mackenzie added: “We’ve been using a metal paint to paint the doors of the Crown Room a new colour. Working on this project has given me the opportunity to find out more about different types of paint, which is a good skill to learn.
“It’s a big honour to work in the Crown Room, it’s not every day that you get the opportunity to do something like this.”
The redevelopment of the Crown Room is the latest chapter in the unfolding story of the Honours of Scotland, Britain’s oldest crown jewels and among the oldest in Europe. They have mainly been housed in the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle since its completion in 1617.
The room is a purpose-built secure vault designed specially to hold these treasures, with barrel-vaulting and thickened walls providing added security.
Kathy Richmond, Head of Collections & Applied Conservation at HES, said: “The Honours of Scotland are objects of immense significance and a key highlight of a visit to Edinburgh Castle.
“With this redevelopment, we’re taking inspiration from the past, and also want these objects to benefit from modern, high-quality design that meets the highest industry standards.
“The new display case will continue to ensure the long-term security and stability of the Honours, while creating an atmospheric and memorable experience for visitors.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the Crown Room later this spring to see the Honours once again in all their glory.”
The Crown Room redevelopment is scheduled to be completed in April 2026.
Information regarding the reopening of the Crown Room to visitors will be published on the Edinburgh Castle website.
105 new shows across comedy, theatre, musicals, cabaret, variety and children’s shows go on sale today from Gilded Balloon, marking its biggest on sale to date, with more programme announcements still to come.
These newly announced shows form part of a wide-ranging 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme, bringing together leading names, rising stars and international artists. From big nights out to thoughtful theatre and side-splittingly clever comedy, August at Gilded Balloon offers something for all ages and tastes.
Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon,said: “We’re delighted to be putting a further 105 brilliant shows on sale as part of this year’s Fringe programme, with even more still to be announced.
“This line-up brings together some of the most exciting talent working today alongside the next generation of performers, and truly reflects the breadth and energy of the Fringe.”
The programme brings together established names including Gregor Fisher, Phil Nichol (returning with two shows), The Guilty Feminist and Rich Hall, alongside a strong wave of new voices making their Fringe debuts. Rising talent includes includes Madeleine Brettingham, Adi Parmar, Fab Goualin, Hannah Byczkowski and Shane Daniel Byrne, while Gilded Balloon continues its commitment to Scottish artists with debut shows from Eva Peroni and Alan Jay, and returning favourites Kim Blythe and Kathleen Hughes. The programme also features new Scottish music and theatre, including Crocodile Rock and a range of bold new productions across the theatre programme.
Gilded Balloon’s legendary shows return for 2026. Late’n’Live is back as the original late-night show, featuring stellar line-ups of your favourite acts from across the festival, hosted by some of the best MCs in the country every night.
Described as “The best late-night show on the Fringe” (Scotsman) and “A Fringe institution for a reason” (TheRecs.co.uk), previous acts have included Johnny Vegas, Bill Bailey, Rich Hall, Jason Byrne, Mawaan Rizwan, John Bishop, Larry Dean, Maisie Adam, Reuben Kaye, Jordan Grey and Viggo Venn. Late’n’Liveremains an essential addition to any Fringe bucket list.
Best Of So You Think You’re Funny? returns with an unmissable line-up of fresh talent, including finalists Reb Day, Joel Walker and Rachel Porter, offering audiences the chance to see the best emerging comedians before they become household names.
So You Think You’re Funny? Heats continue the search for comedy’s next big star, as contestants compete for a place in the final of the UK’s biggest newcomer competition. Previous winners include Peter Kay, Aisling Bea, Sara Pascoe and Lee Mack.
Comedy highlights includeGregor Fisher: An (Early) Evening With Gregor Fisher, where the Scottish stage and screen legend shares stories from his life and career; Madeleine Brettingham: Legend, the debut show from the So You Think You’re Funny? 2025 winner exploring myth, identity and growing up in a world of booze-soaked bad behaviour; and Rich Hall: Chin Music, a typically sharp, improvisational hour from the acclaimed comedian.
The Guilty Feminist, hosted by Deborah Frances-White, brings its Road to Gilead Project to the Fringe, alongside rising Scots comedy star Kim Blythe: Puzzle, following a sold-out 2025 run, and Smack The Pony’s Fiona Allen: White Lies, a sharply observed new show about social anxiety and human interaction.
New additions to the programme include Comedy Night at the Museum, a Gilded Balloon production bringing together top international comedians for a wholly improvised late-night show inspired by real artefacts from the National Museum of Scotland; Shane Daniel Byrne: Baby It’s Time, showcasing one of Ireland’s fastest-rising comedic voices; and Christian Dart: GUMSHOE!, a multi award-nominated, sell-out hit blending noir parody with high-energy character comedy.
Theatre highlights include SLAY, a darkly funny and unflinching exploration of trauma, therapy and modern coping mechanisms, andSilent Disco, an inventive, headphone-led experience blending psychology and music.
Further standout work includes HESS, Michael Burrell’s powerful and timely revival exploring the psychology of extremism and its lasting impact, and Broke & Fabulous in the 21st Century,a riotous, raunchy dramedy celebrating friendship, ambition and modern love.
Other theatre shows on sale today include Ostrich, a sharp look at modern dating and identity; Top Gunchained, a high-energy parody from the team behind Yippee Ki Yay; Boy in a Box, a confronting and urgent piece examining race and identity in America; and Waiting For Wonka, a darkly comic reimagining of childhood nostalgia.
Themed shows bring a mix of interactive and late-night entertainment, includingThe Thinking Drinkers’ Great British Pub Ride, an epic, drink-fuelled journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats; Dreamgun Film Reads, where comedians perform unrehearsed parody versions of classic films; and Not Another Quiz Night, a high-energy, chaotic late-night favourite.
Cabaret and variety sees Fake, a critically acclaimed blend of magic, storytelling and illusion from Chris Cook that explores truth, deception and identity; EIGHT: The One (Wo)Man Drag King Musical Parody, a high-energy, genre-bending musical comedy reimagining Henry VIII through drag, parody and pop and Fungasm: Save or Smash offers up bold, interactive performance.
Also featured is Charlene Kaye: Diversity Shredder, introducing audiences to the unhinged, razor-sharp world of Charlene Kaye — guitar god, internet legend and “breakout comedy star” (Rolling Stone), alongside Siobhan Wilson: Flowercore, an immersive performance celebrating Scotland’s wildflowers through music and visual art.
Children’s and family shows include Max Fulham’s Monkey Business, a lively, family-friendly mix of puppetry, sketches and slapstick comedy andMama G: The Magic Bookmark comes to Teviot. “Everyone’s favourite pantomime dame!” (Metro) and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Mama G discovers the magic of books and the power of being yourself in this hilarious award-winning panto adventure for the whole family!
Bring Yer Bairn Comedy is the adult comedy show where you can bring yer bairn! A selection of our favourite comics from the Scottish scene and beyond, performing to parents, carers and bairns under 15 months old! The perfect morning show!
All shows will take place across Gilded Balloon’s four venues this August, including the welcome return to Teviot, alongside Patter House and Gilded Balloon at the Museum, as well as the newly added Gilded Saloon, GB’s year-round pub and live venue.
It’s set to be a very pink summer!
Further programme announcements will follow in the coming months. For full listings visit www.gildedballoon.co.uk or follow @gildedballoon.
Gilded Balloon is one of Scotland’s leading and best-loved entertainment producers, presenting a cross-genre programme annually at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and touring productions across the UK throughout the year.
