Government urged to deliver on promises for sector
Approximately one pub a day will have closed by the end of 2026, according to the latest figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The trade body estimates that around 360 pubs will permanently shut their doors by the end of the year. This would result in around 5,000 job losses, with over half of these roles being filled by under-25s.
With the typical pub contributing approximately £200,000 to HMRC, the BBPA said that Government could lose almost £72m in tax receipts including employment taxes, beer duty, business rates, corporation tax and VAT, by the end of the year.
The Prime Minister has pledged that the cavalry is coming, which is why we’re asking Government to tackle the root of the problem through a permanently fair and sustainable rates burden, freezing beer duty, increasing draught relief and reviewing employment costs for under-25s.
Emma McClarkin OBE, Chief Executive
By the end of September, 295 pubs shut, with the BBPA warning that successive Budgets have exacerbated the huge tax and regulatory burden that the industry already faced, and which is at the heart of many closures.
England lost 226 pubs in total, with the South East seeing the highest number of closures (42), followed closely behind by the North West (39) – the North East saw the fewest closures (11).
Respectively, Scotland and Wales saw 64 and 5 pubs shut their doors.
The BBPA said the impact of all the Budget measures in November 2025 added an eye-watering extra £322m of business costs for pubs and brewers, meaning many have been forced to make incredibly tough decisions.
The scale of closures underlines exactly why the Prime Minister’s promised 20% business rates cut could not be more welcome, the trade body said.
KEY POINTS:
South East had highest number of closures followed by North West
2025 Budget measures added extra £322m of costs for sector
Treasury loses, on average, £200,000 in tax receipts every time a pub shuts
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association,said: “When a local closes, the damage is felt far and wide. It’s not just workers, communities, our heritage and high streets who lose out when a pub closes – the Treasury loses, on average, £200,000 in tax receipts every time a local calls last orders.
“We wholeheartedly welcome the Prime Minister’s promise to cut business rates by 20% for pubs from next year which, when it comes in to effect, will be a significant help. This will build on the initial commitments to wider reform including the pub valuation methodology and a pub-specific relief recognising their unique social and community value.
“The Prime Minister has pledged that the cavalry is coming, which is why we’re asking Government to tackle the root of the problem through a permanently fair and sustainable rates burden, freezing beer duty, increasing draught relief and reviewing employment costs for under-25s.
“This will mean we can carry on keeping people in jobs, boosting the economy, and being at the heart of communities.”
The British Beer and Pub Association is calling on the Government to use the Budget to permanently and fairly reform business rates, freeze beer duty, increase draught relief and review employment costs, especially for under-25s.
For every three pounds spent in a pub, one pound goes straight to the tax man, the BBPA stressed. This is why the BBPA is also backing the wider hospitality industry campaign for fairer VAT rates.
In 2025, the total net pub closure figure in the UK was 336. Over the last five years, there were nearly 2,200 net pub closures bringing the total number of pubs to 43,656 by the end of 2025.
Families are invited to enjoy a monstrously fun time at The Centre, Livingston, this month as Monster Head Quarters arrives at the shopping centre.
From hunting down mischievous monsters hidden throughout the shopping centre to getting creative with Halloween-themed arts and crafts, interactive games and face painting, there’s a whole host of spooky surprises to keep little monsters entertained during the October school break and the lead up to Halloween.
Every day from the 19th – 31st October, Monster HQ will be inviting little monsters and their families to embark on a creature-spotting adventure around the mall. Visitors can collect a monster trail sheet from the HQ, located opposite Lush, before setting off to discover eight colourful creatures hiding throughout the shopping centre.
Once they’ve tracked down the monsters, families can return to Monster HQ to enjoy a host of Halloween-themed activities, including interactive games and arts and crafts designed to spark creativity and bring out their spooky side.
Activities include creating monster clay creations, masks, hats and decorations, monster scratch art and stone decorating.
There will also be Halloween face painting on Saturday 31st October, from 12pm to 4pm, giving little visitors the chance to complete their spooky transformations.
Monster HQ will be open daily from 11am to 4pm and all activities are free, with donations optional for The Centre, Livingston’s charity partner, Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, (CHAS), which provides specialist palliative care and support to babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families.
Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, said: “We’re delighted to bring Monster HQ to The Centre, Livingston this October, giving families a fun and memorable way to celebrate Halloween together.
“From discovering hidden monsters around the mall to getting creative with spooky crafts, there will be plenty to keep little ones entertained during their visit.
“It is also a great way for us to raise funds for our charity partner, CHAS.”
Zhenya Dove, Community Fundraiser at CHAS, said: “We’re very grateful to The Centre, Livingston for supporting CHAS through this fun, family-friendly event.
“Every little bit helps us to continue providing vital care and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Scotland.
“We hope everyone enjoys the Halloween activities and thank all those who choose to donate and support our work.”
Dobbies’ Edinburgh store is giving shoppers a peek behind the wrapping, inviting customers in for a first look at its new festive collections at the Christmas Preview Evening on Thursday 15 October.
To mark the arrival of Christmas at Dobbies, the Edinburgh store will stay open until 7pm, giving customers extra time to explore the new collections, take advantage of special in-store offers and kick-start their Christmas shopping.
These include discounts on selected Christmas trees, string lights and baubles, as well as deals across the pet department.
The evening will also include live demonstrations on planting and attendees can also enjoy product sampling from the food hall as well as the restaurant and coffee shops.
Dobbies’ Best Ever Christmas 2026 across the UK in numbers
18,000+ artificial Christmas trees arriving in stores for the festive season.
50,000+ Christmas crackers in 12 designs.
100,000 packs of baubles across a huge variety of colours, styles and finishes.
138,000 packs of string lights ready to help homes sparkle this Christmas.
500,000+ individual decorations, with 400 different options to choose from.
Dobbies Head of Brand, Kirsty Rockey, said: “Our customers look forward to our Christmas shop opening each year, and this is set to be one of our best launches yet. With 80% of our Christmas range brand new for 2026, there are even more decorations, homeware and gifts to discover, alongside some fantastic festive deals.
“This year’s Christmas range features five distinct collections: Classic Noel, North Pole, A Country Christmas, Winter Wonderland and Christmas Carnival.
“Alongside a collection to suit every home, Dobbies has everything from eye-catching baubles to playful Christmas characters and gifts for every member of the family.
“We can’t wait to welcome customers to the Christmas Preview Evening to officially launch Dobbies’ Best Ever Christmas.”
To shop Dobbies’ full Christmas and seasonal ranges, visit www.dobbies.com.
To learn more about the Christmas Preview Evening at the Edinburgh store and to book a free ticket, visit dobbies.com/events.
Go Ape’s highly anticipated Sundown Adventures at Dalkeith Country Park’s WinterFest are back
It’s your time to shine. Go Ape’s unmissable winter adventure is coming soon for a second year at Go Ape Dalkeith near Edinburgh, and it’ll be the highlight of your festive season. Take on tree-to-tree crossings illuminated by glowing lights.
Feel the thrill of ziplines in the dark. It’s Go Ape’s signature tree top adventures taken up a level.
On for a limited time from 27th November until 30th December, starting from sunset around 4.30pm. Minimum age 6 years old. Minimum height 1.2 metres. Sessions are ready to book now.
Secure your spot on this once-a-year adventure at:
Aldi has revealed that Edinburgh is set to receive around £3.5 million in 2027 as part of its £900m investment programme.
The investment will see Aldi extend its existing store in Gilmerton Road, Edinburgh, creating more space for customers and improving the store layout.
The supermarket plans to open 40 new stores across the UK during the year, alongside continued investment in its distribution network.
Aldi currently has 1,095 stores and plans to grow to 1,500 across the UK, with a focus on communities that do not have easy access to affordable groceries because of a lack of local choice or competition.
Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said:“We’re continuing to invest significantly across the UK as we progress towards our long-term ambition of 1,500 Aldi stores.
“These new locations are part of our £900 million investment programme for 2027 and will help us bring Aldi’s award-winning quality and unbeatable value to even more communities. We’re excited to take the next step in our expansion plans and look forward to welcoming customers through the doors of these new stores in the years ahead.”
The investment builds on Aldi’s existing expansion programme, with the supermarket set to open 30 stores during the final months of 2026. Its continued growth will create thousands of jobs and further opportunities for British suppliers.
Aldi has 113 stores in Scotland and employs more than 3,600 people.
1 in 5 (20%) pet owners in Scotland admit to doing no research before getting a pet
17% of Scotland’s pet owners looked into the cost of ownership before buying a pet
22% of dog owners in Scotland only walk their dog for 30 minutes or less a day
1 in 5 pet owners (20%) in Scotland believe their pet needs to lose weight.
The importance of neutering – Neville’s time at Edinburgh PDSA Pet Hospital
PDSA launches Pet Check Challenge to help equip owners with the knowledge they need so pets can live healthy, happy lives and avoid preventable vet care
The latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, the UK’s largest annual assessment of pet wellbeing, reveals the potential blind spots that pet owners could miss, proving that sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know!
Exploring The Knowledge Gap: What Pet Owners Don’t Know About Their Pets, the Report recognises that while most owners want the best for their pets, good intentions do not always translate into the care they need to thrive.
From doing no research before buying a pet to everyday decisions about food, exercise and training, a lack of knowledge can affect pets’ health and wellbeing, sometimes leading to preventable health problems and costly veterinary treatment. Key knowledge gaps included:
Pet preparation
1 in 5 (20%) pet owners in Scotland admit to doing no research before buying or rescuing their pet, raising concerns regarding owners’ awareness of crucial factors, such as which species may be suitable for an individual or family’s lifestyle, through to how to provide appropriate care, e.g. appropriate walking, training, mental stimulation, enrichment etc., to breed related conditions that can be distressing and costly in the long term.
Only 17% of Scotland’s pet owners looked into the cost of ownership before buying a pet, which is particularly important during the current cost of living crisis, as pet and veterinary costs continue to increase.
55% of pet owners in Scotland say they found their pet online. While finding a pet online can make it easier for owners to research and find a pet, it can also carry numerous risks. PDSA advises that owners should take care when responding to online adverts and check that the seller or organisation is genuine and prioritises the welfare of the animals. Often irresponsible or illegal breeding and rehoming activity can be difficult to identify from photos, videos and descriptions alone, potentially leading to devastating consequences for both pets and their owners.
Nutrition
1 in 5 pet owners (20%) in Scotland believe their pet needs to lose weight. PDSA believes this figure to be hugely underestimated* and highlights the importance more than ever of keeping owners informed about how to manage their pets’ diet and weight. Being overweight can cause health problems by placing additional pressure and strain on their body. Obesity can also worsen or trigger health problems such as arthritis, cancer and breathing difficulties. These conditions may affect mobility, comfort and overall quality of life, making prevention and early weight management particularly important.
Exercise
22% of Scotland’s dog owners only walk their dog for 30 minutes or less a day. While this may be appropriate for some dogs, depending on their individual needs, for many this will not provide sufficient exercise and stimulation, which can lead to health problems, and impact their mental wellbeing. The amount of exercise a dog needs depends on factors including their breed, age, health, fitness, and personality, but all dogs benefit from regular, varied opportunities for physical activity and mental stimulation.
Dogs walked for less than 30 minutes a day were around 70% more likely to display excessive barking at someone outside the window than dogs walked for one to two hours a day (32% vs 19%), and around 59% more likely to jump up at people than dogs walked over two hours a day (27% vs 17%). While these findings do not establish that shorter walks cause these behaviours, they highlight the potential importance of providing dogs with sufficient physical and mental stimulation.
Preventive measures
Figures suggest 39% of dogs and 5% of cats in Scotland are not neutered, potentially placing them at risk of a series of significant, preventable health conditions such as pyometra, which can be fatal. Vet teams are best placed to support pet owners in making an informed decision, considering factors including the animal’s age, sex, breed, lifestyle, purpose and the potential impact of neutering on their health and behaviour.
PDSA vet Anna Ewers-Clark said: “Every pet deserves the opportunity to live a healthy, happy life and have their needs understood and met.
“In our PDSA Pet Hospitals, we see every day how prevention and early intervention can be life changing for both pets and their owners, ultimately the healthier pets remain the less veterinary support they will require; for PDSA this is crucial, so we can be there for even more pets in need.
“We know that people love their pets and want to give them the best possible life they can. To help make that a reality, we want to help equip pet owners to be the very best pet owner they can be. By shining a light on the blind spots identified by this year’s PAW Report, we want to support pet owners with the information and knowledge they need that will help them and their pets.
“By improving what people know about pets, helping them understand what their pet needs and supporting them to turn that knowledge into action, we can make a real difference to the lives of our beloved pets and help them enjoy healthier, happier lives.”
Baroness Hayman of Ullock, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, said: “Pets are an incredibly important part of our society and for millions of people they provide companionship, comfort, happiness and support through some of life’s most difficult moments.
“With that relationship comes responsibility. Every pet deserves to have their welfare needs understood and met, and owners need access to the right information and support to help them provide the best possible care.
“Research such as PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report plays an important role in helping us understand the experiences of pet owners and the challenges they face, while highlighting where greater awareness and support could make a real difference.
“The work of charities such as PDSA is vital in helping people keep their pets healthy and well, while ensuring owners have somewhere to turn to when they need advice, support or veterinary care.”
The importance of neutering – Neville’s story
When Hollyetta noticed her cat Neville had developed a swollen tummy, she initially thought she was pregnant but an ultrasound at Edinburgh PDSA Pet Hospital confirmed that Neville was suffering from pyometra – a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the womb.
PDSA vets operated immediately to remove her infected womb, and thankfully Neville was able to return home later that evening.
Pyometra is unfortunately a condition PDSA sees often in its Pet Hospitals that can affect unneutered female pets and can be fatal without urgent treatment. Therefore, recognising the signs and seeking veterinary advice quickly can be lifesaving. It is also entirely preventable when female pets are neutered.
Holyetta said: “I had absolutely no idea that not being spayed would cause Neville to get a life-threatening infection in her womb.When I rushed Neville to Edinburgh PDSA Pet Hospital and was told that, I was actually in shock and very upset that her life was at risk and that she may not even make it through the surgery.
“If I had known that being unspayed would cause that, then I’d never have left her unspayed and would have made sure I got it done as soon as I could. She’s my everything and to think we could have lost her doesn’t bear thinking about.”
After seeing Neville safely through treatment, Hollyetta added: “Within a week or two she recovered really well and is now back to her cheeky self – full of cattitude!
“It was scary for me seeing her like that and not knowing how sick she was, as I had mistaken it as Neville being pregnant.
“I would certainly urge anyone with cats to get them spayed as soon as they can so they don’t have to go through what I went through, as I dread to think what would have happened if I hadn’t registered Neville with PDSA.
“I would never ever leave another female kitten / cat unspayed now I know what can happen.
“I cannot thank the PDSA enough for the care they showed Neville. All the staff were fantastic with me and Neville, and we will be forever grateful.”
The total cost of Neville’s treatment, funded by PDSA, was nearly £800.
PDSA wants to empower people with the knowledge and support they need to be able to spot problems with their pets, make informed choices about how to be a responsible pet owner and help them understand the preventative steps they can take, and know when to seek veterinary expertise.
As part of this drive, existing and prospective pet owners are being encouraged to take the online PDSA Pet Check Challenge today. The ten question, eye-opening quiz will quickly reveal how much they actually know about their pet’s wellbeing and will uncover practical ways to be the best pet owners they can be, so their pets can live happy and healthy lives.
The Home Secretary has expanded dedicated police support and launched a review into protective security for those in public life
Security arrangements for high-profile public figures will be urgently examined to ensure those most at risk are better protected amid rising threats to their safety.
The horrific murder of Ann Widdecombe is one of several recent events to raise serious questions about the security of those in public life.
In response, the Home Secretary has today announced an independent review of the UK’s protective security system to combat the growing risks of terrorism, extremism and state threats, as well as harassment and intimidation.
The review will be carried out by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, who will look at whether current security arrangements are fit for purpose, in particular ensuring there is adequate protection for those most at risk.
This includes high-profile individuals (including royals), government ministers, MPs, locally elected representatives, and other prominent individuals in British politics. His review will not include an assessment of individual cases.
Dedicated police support will be expanded to leaders of political parties who are not MPs, as well as peers, former MPs, former members of the devolved parliaments and political party spokespeople.
Sir Stephen will look at how existing security is provided, whether funding and measures are being used effectively and proportionately, and how decision-making can be more consistent in response to threat and risk. The review will build on the work of Sir Robert Buckland, who is conducting a separate review into the murder of Sir David Amess MP, which will consider the security of MPs in their constituencies.
The Home Secretary announced the review in an address to Parliament on national security threats.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “Those who enter public life do so to serve. Robust debate and criticism are part of the job. Threats, abuse and violence are not.
“An attack on any individual in public life is an attack on every one of us, and it is an attack on democracy itself.
“We owe it to those public servants we have tragically lost, and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country, to ensure those who serve receive the protection they deserve.”
This full-scale review will encompass the protection being provided to high-risk individuals and sites such as government buildings and diplomatic estates.
Whilst the terms of reference and timeframe are subject to agreement with Sir Stephen, the Home Secretary will consider any recommendations to reform and rebalance the system, ensuring future security arrangements are adequate to meet the current threat whilst providing value for money for the taxpayer.
The review comes as politicians, elected representatives, and those in public office are facing heightened risks and threats to their safety. In May’s local elections the Electoral Commission found that 55% of all candidates experienced some form of harassment and intimidation, as did the same proportion of candidates at the 2024 General Election.
The government is working to ensure that no one in this country is deterred from representing their community, taking part in British politics, and standing for public office because of fear for their safety. Through the Defending Democracy Taskforce, the Security Minister continues to drive forward work across government to tackle the full range of threats to our democracy.
Annual electricity network winter safety leaflet dropping through millions of doors
SP Energy Networks is reminding its millions of customers how to prepare for potential power cuts as winter approaches.
With shorter days and stormier weather on the horizon as the seasons change, the electricity network operator is sending out winter advice leaflets to more than 3.5 million homes and businesses across central & southern Scotland, Cheshire, Merseyside, North & Mid Wales and North Shropshire.
The leaflet is designed to put key information and advice directly into the hands of customers so they are prepared in case the lights go out. It contains top tips for all customers as well as specialist information for those who may rely on medical equipment or be eligible to join the Priority Service Register and get extra support.
Kendal Morris, Customer Services Director at SP Energy Networks, said:“While power cuts don’t happen often, we know that winter brings in windier weather and seasonal storms that can affect our network and impact power supplies, so it’s vital we ensure our customers are prepared for what may come.
A few simple steps – as set out in our leaflet – really can make all the difference to help our customers stay safe and know where to get the support they need if the power goes out. Look out for your leaflet dropping through your door.
“It’s also vital customers ensure we have their correct and up-to-date contact details so we can keep in touch as needed and also have the right information if compensation becomes due under our Guaranteed Standards of Service, with payments then processed automatically, so make sure you let us know if you move house or change your phone number.”
The winter advice leaflets are being delivered in phases throughout October, with all customers set to receive theirs by the end of the month.
SP Energy Networks top tips for preparing for potential power cuts are:
Save the 105 power cut number in your phone or somewhere easy to find.
Keep a torch and new batteries nearby.
Charge your phone and any power packs.
Have warm clothes or extra blankets ready.
Fill a flask with hot water.
Use a battery-powered radio for updates
The electricity network operator is also encouraging eligible customers who may need additional support in the event of a power cut to sign up for its free Priority Services Register.
The service is available to anyone who would benefit from additional assistance including people who rely on medical equipment at home, customers aged 60 and over, households with children under five, people with long-term health needs, or anyone who feels they may need extra help.
Registered customers receive tailored support and proactive updates if there is a power cut in their area, as well as access to a dedicated 24/7 helpline. Further information on how to register is detailed in the customer leaflet or on the SP Energy Networks website.
For more information and guidance on how to prepare for a power cut, visit:
Scotland’s basketball team, Caledonia Gladiators, and global sports brand Reebok have launched a new campaign celebrating the transatlantic connection between basketball’s American roots and the rapidly growing game in Scotland.
Building a Basketball Nation marks the official kit launch for the 2026/27 season, bringing together professional players with young people from the local community to explore how a game born in America has found a home in Scotland.
The campaign comes as Boston and Glasgow prepare to become sister cities, strengthening a long-standing connection between the two cities and their shared sporting and cultural heritage.
Shot within Caledonia Gladiators’ home arena and Glasgow Life’s basketball court in Victoria Park, the film sees the next generation of Scottish players take to the court alongside American and Scottish professional players. It celebrates the moments that make basketball more than just a sport – from the sound of a ball hitting concrete to the squeak of trainers on the court, and the voices of friends, families and teammates coming together.
At the heart of the campaign is a simple message: while basketball was built in America, Scotland is building its own basketball nation.
Bringing together players from different backgrounds, ages and stages of their basketball journeys, the film highlights the role of the game in connecting communities and inspiring the next generation.
The partnership also marks the continued relationship between Reebok and Caledonia Gladiators, united by a shared belief in the power of sport, community and culture to bring people together.
Caledonia Gladiators are celebrating their growing fanbase for the 2026/27 season so far, with a sellout game at the men’s first home game on 21st September and a 128% increase in the women’s season opener from 2025/26.
Tony McDaid, CEO of Caledonia Gladiators, said: “Ultimately, we’re focused on building a basketball nation in Scotland.
“Basketball is one of the country’s most-played sports, from schools and community courts to games in gardens across the country.
“We know American professional basketball is something many people watch and enjoy, but we’re bringing that live basketball experience to our communities here in East Kilbride, Glasgow and further afield.
“Our new campaign celebrates the real shift we’ve seen in basketball in Scotland over the last few years. Our fanbase has grown significantly, we’re engaging with more young people than ever before, and we regularly see fans out in the community wearing our Reebok kit. That’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
“It’s fantastic to continue our longstanding partnership with Reebok. Together, we’re helping to grow the game, connect communities and build a basketball nation.”
John Carden, Managing Director of Sports Hub Brands, teamwear partner of Reebok, said: “Basketball has always been about more than what happens on the court. It creates connections, inspires communities and brings people together through a shared love of the game.
“Building a Basketball Nation captures that perfectly, celebrating the sport’s American heritage while recognising the exciting growth of basketball in Scotland.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Caledonia Gladiators and support their ambition to grow the game, inspire the next generation and build a basketball culture that can continue to grow for years to come.”
As they strive to build a basketball nation, Caledonia Gladiators work closely with Basketball Scotland to build momentum for the sport across the county.
David Fallon, Chief Executive Officer of Basketball Scotland, said:“The continued growth of basketball in Scotland depends on all parts of the game working together, from our clubs and community programmes through to the professional game.
“We’ve been pleased to work closely with Caledonia Gladiators to help raise the profile of basketball, inspire more young people to pick up a ball and strengthen the connection between grassroots participation and the opportunities people can see at the highest level of the game.
“There is real momentum around basketball in Scotland, and showcasing the sport in our communities and giving young people visible role models can play an important part in turning that interest into lasting participation.”
The 2026/27 Reebok x Caledonia Gladiators kit is now available to purchase within the merchandise shop open on gamedays at Caledonia Gladiators’ home arena at Playsport, as well as online at www.caledoniagladiators.com.
Caledonia Gladiators are Scotland’s professional basketball team, playing at the highest level of basketball within the UK’s Super League Basketball. Tickets start from just £5 for men’s and women’s fixtures. To find out more and book your seat, visit www.caledoniagladiators.com.
To view the full Building a Basketball Nation film, fans can watch via:
