Month: August 2026

Zack Polanski joins campaign trail for Edinburgh Greens by-election candidates

Green Party of England and Wales leader Zack Polanski has thrown his support behind Edinburgh Greens’ by election candidates ahead of residents going to vote on September 3rd.

Lorenzo Martinico is standing in Portobello/Craigmillar, while Isabella Gastel Alejandre is the Green candidate in Southside/Newington. 

Zack spent time yesterday (Sat 8th August) campaigning in Portobello with Lorenzo, meeting local members and highlighting the Greens’ plans to tackle the housing crisis, improve local services and create a greener, fairer Edinburgh. 

Zack said: “I’m delighted to be supporting Lorenzo and Isabella. They’re exactly the kind of local champions we need in Edinburgh and across the UK.

“They’ve built energetic grassroots campaigns around a positive vision for a city that works for people and planet.

“With more Green councillors, we can do far more to lower rents, cut pollution and invest in nature and green spaces.

“I hope residents will join them in demanding better for Edinburgh by voting Scottish Green on September 3.”

Isabella said: “We’re proud to have Zack’s support. He’s an inspiring voice for change, and it’s fantastic to have him campaigning with us in Edinburgh.

“The decisions made at City Chambers affect the everyday lives of people across our city, from housing and public transport to our parks, schools and local services. Local people deserve representatives who will stand up for their communities and push for the investment they need, which is exactly what me and Lorenzo will do.

“These by-elections are a chance for local people to vote for Green representatives who will demand better for our city and work hard to deliver it.”

Lorenzo added: “It’s great to have Zack’s backing in these crucial by-elections. 

“Edinburgh Greens have a long history of delivering change, and I hope that residents in both wards will join us in calling for action to tackle the housing crisis and cut pollution.

“With just 10 months until the full Edinburgh Council elections, this is an opportunity for residents to send a clear message about the kind of city they want and the services they expect.

“We’re running a positive, hopeful campaign, and we’re delighted Zack is supporting us in this way.”

“Scotland is powering Britain’s future defence” says Defence Secretary

First visit to Rosyth Shipyard and forces housing

On his first visit to Scotland as Defence Secretary, Wes Streeting has underlined the nation’s vital role in the UK’s defence. 

During the visit, Mr Streeting saw first-hand how UK defence investment is supporting national security, skilled jobs and service families, with nearly 12,000 jobs in Scotland supported by defence.

While in Rosyth, the Defence Secretary toured Babcock’s facility, where the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates are being built, meeting workers and apprentices supporting one of the UK’s major shipbuilding programmes.

The Type 31 programme sustains 2,500 skilled jobs across Scotland and the UK supply chain, including 400 apprenticeships established through partnerships with local colleges in Fife and across Scotland, supporting regional economic growth.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting MP said: “From the skilled workers and apprentices building the next generation of Royal Navy warships at Rosyth, to the service families who support our Armed Forces every day, Scotland sits at the heart of our national security.

“It is inspiring to see proud heritage combining with modern technology to make our country fit for the future. That also presents huge opportunities for jobs and reindustrialisation.  

“Alongside this, we are committed to delivering better homes for the personnel and families who serve our country.”

The Defence Secretary also met Service Personnel and families in Edinburgh, visiting homes that have benefitted from refurbishment works, including a roofing project at Redford Gardens and homes undergoing full upgrades at Adams Well Estate.

The Government is undertaking a generational renewal of Armed Forces housing, backed by £9 billion over the next decade. This will see 40,000 military homes, 9 in 10 of the total estate, upgraded, modernised or rebuilt.

A new Defence Housing Service has also been established to put forces families first, meeting new, modern property standards and accelerating housing delivery on surplus defence land.

Scotland is at the heart of defending Britain, with nearly 10,000 Armed Forces personnel stationed there and key strategic bases playing an increasingly vital role in protecting the North Atlantic from Russian aggression. Typhoon fighter jets scramble from RAF Lossiemouth in response to potential threats, while HMNB Clyde is home to the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet. 

The visit underlines the Government’s commitment to making Defence an engine for growth, while renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve by improving the lived experience of Armed Forces personnel and their families.

As part of the Defence Investment Plan, the Government has confirmed £26 billion to modernise critical naval base infrastructure, including £15.1 billion to regenerate HMNB Clyde with world-class facilities to increase maintenance delivery, modern waterfront infrastructure, training facilities and new accommodation.

Harry Holt, CEO of Babcock International Group, said: “A capable and adaptable Royal Navy fleet is essential to the security of the UK, NATO and our allies around the world, and we were delighted to welcome the Defence Secretary here to Rosyth to see first-hand the excellent progress being made on the Type 31 frigate programme.

“The defence industry makes a vital contribution to Scotland’s economy, sustaining thousands of skilled jobs and apprenticeships. Our workforce and operations at Rosyth are a clear demonstration of this, delivering sovereign capability, supporting economic growth, and contributing to UK reindustrialisation.  

“We look forward to working with the Defence Secretary and the Ministry of Defence as they implement the Defence Investment Plan, further strengthening our sovereign and export capabilities and the defence of our nation.”

Book of Shadows unleashed at Edinburgh Fringe in new shadow puppet show

Award-winning Japanese shadow puppet company Mochinosha/Book of Shadowz return to Edinburgh to unleash their latest creation upon the Fringe with the premiere of their brand new show, Book of Shadows – a hilarious occult mystery for grown-ups.

Teenage sceptic Vi is forced to live with her grandmother, who claims to be the 200-year-old mystic and spiritual guru Madam Blavatsky. When Vi’s friends begin to disappear, she reluctantly teams up with Granny to uncover a conspiracy of séances, unhinged cultists and suspiciously interested government agents.

A visually stunning dark comedy based on a possibly true story, Book of Shadows dives into the mysterious world of the occult and mysticism where audiences can draw their own conclusions as to what to believe.

Mochinosha / Book of Shadowz was founded in 2012 by Canadian artist Daniel Wishes and Japanese artist Seri Yanai and are known for their use of colourful hand-crafted shadow puppets to create live analogue shadow animation.

The company has been recognised with awards from festivals around the world, including Critic’s Choice (Orlando Fringe, USA), Outstanding Production (Suginami Theatre Festival, Japan), and The Spookies Jury’s Choice Award (Edinburgh Fringe, UK).

Written by Daniel Wishes and performed together with Seri Yanai, Book of Shadows is a prelude to a larger tale exploring the occult and esoteric. The first chapter premieres at the Edinburgh Fringe 2026, told through Mochinosha / Book of Shadowz’ signature shadow animation and puppetry, with a pitch-black sense of humour that will appeal to those of a weird and surrealist disposition.

Book of Shadows premieres at the Edinburgh Fringe, 18:30 at Underbelly Cowgate’s Big Belly, 05 – 30 August 2026 (no show 19-Aug).

Book of Shadows Mochinosha / Book of Shadowz

18:30 05 – 30 Aug | Underbelly Cowgate, Big Belly
edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/book-of-shadows 

Taking medication this summer? What you need to know about sun and heat exposure

Some medicines can make you more sensitive to the sun or increase the risk of dehydration without you realising it. The MHRA is encouraging people to know the risks and stay protected this summer.

People taking certain prescription or over‑the‑counter medicines are being reminded to take extra care in warmer weather, as some treatments can make it harder for the body to stay hydrated, regulate temperature, or cope with sun exposure. 

The advice is part of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) ‘Summer-proof your health’ campaign, which highlights practical steps people can take to use medicines and medical devices safely during warmer months.

Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said: “Some commonly used medicines can affect the body’s ability to stay hydrated, regulate temperature, or protect itself from sun exposure. 

For example, diuretics, often prescribed for blood pressure or heart conditions, can increase fluid loss and make dehydration more likely. Some antidepressants and antipsychotics can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature, and medicines such as beta blockers may reduce the body’s response to heat stress. 

“Other treatments can increase sensitivity to sunlight, meaning skin can burn faster or more severely than expected. These include certain antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline, acne treatments like isotretinoin and topical retinoids; and antifungal medicines such as voriconazole. 

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate and azathioprine, often used to treat conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and lupus, can also increase photosensitivity.  

“Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly used to treat acid reflux and heartburn, have also been linked to a very low risk of a lupus-like skin reaction triggered by sun exposure, and common painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen may also increase sun sensitivity.” 

“Simple precautions can make a significant difference. Staying hydrated, avoiding the strongest sun during the middle of the day, and using protective clothing and sunscreen can all help reduce risk. 

To reduce the risk of medicine-related problems during the summer, people are encouraged to: 

  • Check the patient information leaflet for advice on sun exposure and hydration. This comes with every medicine and can also be accessed online.  
  • Be aware of signs that the body is struggling in the heat, including dizziness, headaches, unusual fatigue, confusion or reduced urination. Skin that becomes red, sore, blistered or reacts more intensely after sun exposure may also be a sign of increased sensitivity linked to medication. 
  • Do not stop taking prescribed medicines during hot weather without advice. Anyone who is unsure about how their medication may be affected by heat or sunlight should speak to a pharmacist or GP.  

Through the “Summer proof your health” campaign, the MHRA is encouraging people to be aware of the potential risks associated with medicines in warmer weather and to take straightforward steps to stay safe throughout the summer. 

Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from a medicine is encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse about it.

People can also report the side effect directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, to help improve the safety of medicines for everyone. You can now use NHS login to create a new Yellow Card account or access an existing one, providing a secure and convenient way to sign in using credentials you may already use across NHS services.

Free Digital Support Sessions at Central Library!

Need help with everyday digital skills? Join us later this month for free support sessions with volunteers from Lloyds Banking Group.

Tuesday 18th & 25th August

2:30pm – 4:30pm

Central Library (Mezzanine Level)

💻 Bring your own device and get one-to-one help with:

✅ Browsing the internet

✅ Using email and apps

✅ Social media and video calls

✅ Staying safe online

✅ Accessing services and banking

✅ Creating documents and sharing photos

Book your spot or drop in on the day!

Email: getonline@edinburgh.gov.uk

Phone: 07716 702180

#GetOnline

#DigitalInclusion

#EdinburghLibraries

#DigitalSkills

Opposing the US and Israel’s war on Iran is a cost of living priority

UNIONS URGE BURNHAM TO REVOKE PERMISSION FOR US AIR STRIKES

Ten trade unions, including the UK’s largest union UNISON, have called on UK prime minister Andy Burnham to revoke permission for US air strikes on Iran launched from RAF bases:

Read the full release at @TransitionSec

: https://transitionsecurity.org/update/iran-war-cost-of-living/

Opposing-the-US-and-Israels-war-on-Iran-is-a-cost-of-living-priority-1Download

HOPE comes to Film Festival

Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced the UK Premiere of Na Hong-jin unique and epic sci-fi action thriller HOPE. The film will screen in IMAX at Cineworld Fountainbridge on Sunday 16th August.

Fresh from blazing a trail across Cannes, HOPE is the new film from incendiary filmmaker Na Hong-jin (The Wailing, The Yellow Sea, The Chaser) and stars South Korean talent Hwang Jung-min (The Wailing, Veteran), Zo In-sung (Moving, Smugglers)andHoyeon (Squid Game, Disclaimer)as well as Taylor Russell (Bones and all, Waves), Michael Fassbender (Shame, The Killer) and Alicia Vikander (Tomb Raider, The Danish Girl).

In the remote South Korea village of Hope Harbor, police chief Bum-seok (Hwang Jung- min) and officer Sung-ae (Hoyeon) are called to find a mysterious creature that has wreaked havoc on the village.

In the nearby forest, a coterie of hunters, including Sung- ki (Zo In-Sung) set out to track the beast and find themselves hunted instead. But all is not as it seems, and perceptions can be misleading. What begins as ignorance plants the seed of disaster, escalating through human conflict into a tragedy of cosmic proportions. 

Delivering action on a thrillingly huge scale, prepare for the biggest action-adventure a screen can handle.

This special screening joins 38 new feature film presentations including 21 feature film World Premieres at this year’s EIFF as well as special presentation screenings of including Anthony Minghella’s iconic film The Talented Mr Ripley, Danny Boyle’s Trainspotting, Kenneth Branagh’s Hamlet, Takeshi Miike’s Visitor Q, Hal Ashby’s Coming Home and Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton’s Little Miss Sunshine.

EIFF CEO and Festival Director, Paul Ridd has said: “For almost three hours this spectacularly exciting and unpredictable film from one of the most exciting filmmakers currently working takes us on a breakneck thrill ride through the Korean countryside, via a decimated town, and into dense woodland, as hapless mortals do battle with extraterrestrial forces on foot, on horseback and in cars.

This is big budget, big scale genre filmmaking of the highest order and we are over the moon to unleash its UK Premiere on Edinburgh audiences” 

Press and Industry accreditation is now open for this year’s Festival and available to apply for via the EIFF website.

This year’s EIFF runs from 13 – 19 August 2026 and opens with the International Premiere of Edinburgh-born filmmaker Louis Paxton’s debut feature The Incomer and closes with Louise Lockwood’s powerful debut documentary feature Bel.

EIFF’s invigorated vision under leadership from CEO & Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa continues to accelerate the discovery of new film talent and engage with audiences, industry members and local, national and international media. 

EIFF 2026 is supported by Screen Scotland and the BFI Audience Projects Fund, awarding National Lottery funding, the Industry Programme is backed by EXPO funding from the Scottish Government through Creative Scotland, and VisitScotland.

The EIFF team continues to create a world-class showcase for independent film and filmmaking talent.

The Festival is supported by a Board chaired by Andrew Macdonald of DNA Films, producer of the iconic Edinburgh-based film Trainspotting, including Vice Chair Amy Jackson, producer of BAFTA award-winning indie Aftersun; Peter Rice, former chairman of General Entertainment at Disney and President of 21st Century Fox; Teresa Moneo, producer and former Director of UK Film, Netflix; Isla Macgillivray, Partner at Saffery; and video game producer Romana Ramzan.

Communist candidates make Gaza City twinning central to Edinburgh by-election campaigns

Richard Shillcock and Peter Olech are launching a campaign featuring Palestinian flag leaflets to challenge UK complicity in the Gaza genocide and the involvement of local arms manufacturers.

Richard Shillcock, the Communist Party of Britain candidate for the Southside/Newington council by-election, has declared that the formal twinning of Edinburgh with Gaza City will be a key issue in the party’s campaign.

Speaking ahead of the 3 September 2026 council by-elections, Shillcock condemned the ongoing humanitarian crisis, uniting with fellow Communist candidate Peter Olech (standing in Portobello/Craigmillar ward) to call on all candidates to join a cross-party pledge supporting this international friendship move.

The Communist Party campaign features a unique election leaflet that folds out into the Palestinian flag for window display.

“As a father myself, it breaks my heart to have been protesting against the genocide in Gaza for nearly three years and to have been unable to prevent the murder of some 20,000 children there by the US-backed Israeli state, and the damaging and wounding of untold more children,” said Shillcock.

“I don’t need to describe this further—we’ve seen it on our screens every day.”

The move deliberately revives a contentious local political debate. In 2022, a citizen-led petition and a subsequent motion brought by Green councillors to explore twinning options were rejected by the City of Edinburgh Council following legal objections and administrative delays.

Richard Shillcock and Peter Olech are asking voters to use these elections to overturn that precedent.

In a joint statement, the candidates said: “We welcome other candidates and parties joining the pledge to pursue the twinning issue, whether or not elected to the council. Let’s see a majority of voters choosing candidates who support twinning Edinburgh with Gaza City.”

Richard Shillcock made three points linking Palestine directly to the Scottish capital:

  • Universal Humanity: The crisis is the defining moral issue of our generation.
  • State Complicity: The UK government continues to provide extensive military, economic, diplomatic, logistical, and intelligence support to the Israeli state.
  • Local Financial and Military Links: Corporate entities operating within Edinburgh connect the city directly to the Israeli state and military apparatus: the Leonardo UK arms company and Barclays Bank, a primary trader in Israeli government bonds.

The Communist Party of Britain is urging Southside/Newington and Portobello/Craigmillar voters to send a clear message against domestic complicity in overseas conflicts.

Aldi store is one of Edinburgh’s most unexpected Tripadvisor attractions 

Aldi Portobello set to welcome visitors from around the world after being recognised as an authentic food and drink destination, with hundreds of Scottish products on its shelves.

As millions of visitors descend on Edinburgh for this summer’s Fringe, Aldi is preparing to welcome festival-goers in search of an authentic Scottish food experience.

The Aldi Portobello store has become one of the only supermarkets in Scotland to feature among Edinburgh’s top Things To Do on Tripadvisor, putting it alongside many of the capital’s most iconic visitor attractions.

Recognised for its extensive range with hundreds of Scottish food and drink products, the store is becoming an unlikely foodie destination for international and UK visitors keen to taste the very best of Scotland.

In 2026, Aldi topped the National Farmers Union (NFU)’s largest-ever supermarket shelf study for Scottish own-label sourcing, with an average of 65% Scottish-origin products, significantly ahead of other major retailers.

Aldi’s extensive range offers festival-goers the chance to discover produce from some of the country’s best-loved suppliers, including ice cream from Equi’s made with Scottish milk and cream, locally grown berries from Angus Soft Fruits and baked favourites from Brownings, making the Portobello store an unexpected but distinctly Scottish addition to the Fringe itinerary.

To celebrate its new Things To Do status, visitors can also pick up one of Aldi’s limited-edition Edinburgh Fringe postcards for free giving festival-goers a fun way to share their favourite memories and foodie discoveries with friends and family, while inspiring others to experience Edinburgh and its vibrant food scene for themselves.

Alan Leslie, Buying Director at Aldi Scotland said: “The Edinburgh Fringe welcomes millions of visitors from around the world each year, and for many, trying Scotland’s fantastic food and drink is an essential part of the experience.

“We’re proud to work with so many Scottish suppliers to bring high-quality local produce to our shelves, so it’s fantastic that our Portobello store has been listed as somewhere visitors can enjoy an authentic taste of Scotland.

“Whether people are stopping by to sample some of Scotland’s finest produce, picking up essentials before a show or sending one of our limited-edition postcards home to share the excitement of the Fringe, we’re looking forward to welcoming festival visitors through our doors.”

Aldi Scotland has an ongoing commitment to championing Scottish producers, with the supermarket working with a range of local suppliers and investing millions in Scotland’s food and drink industry every year.

To explore Aldi’s Scottish produce, visit: Best of Scotland | ALDI UK

Visit Aldi’s Tripadvisor page at: ALDI (Edinburgh, Scotland): Address, Phone Number – Tripadvisor

Lord Provost Takes the Salute at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Opening Night

The City of Edinburgh’s Lord Provost marked a special milestone this evening as he took on the prestigious role of Salute Taker at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo opening night, celebrating his final Tattoo in office as Lord Provost. 

Taking his place on the Castle Esplanade, the Lord Provost watched this year’s spectacular show, A Call to Gather, joining thousands of audience members as performers from around the world came together in a celebration of music, military tradition and culture. 

The evening offered a fitting final Tattoo in office for the Lord Provost, whose role has seen him champion Edinburgh on the global stage and celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. 

Running from 7 to 29 August, A Call to Gather features more than 800 performers from the UK, Germany, New Zealand, Qatar, the USA and beyond, bringing cultures together on one of the world’s most iconic stages.