Month: October 2026

New Poppyscotland bus launched on Edinburgh Poppy Day

A brand new Poppyscotland bus was unveiled yesterday (Thursday 29 October) on Edinburgh Poppy Day, marking the launch of the charity’s annual campaign.

Designed in partnership with Poppyscotland, the Lothian Buses’ double deck bus features a striking poppy-themed design and will help to raise awareness of the charity’s vital work supporting veterans and their families.

Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director for Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said: “As one of the largest employers in the region, we’re incredibly proud to have many former servicemen and women among our colleagues at Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. That gives our longstanding support for Poppyscotland and the Scottish Poppy Appeal a very special significance for us.

“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Poppyscotland and play our part in raising awareness of the invaluable support it provides to veterans and their families.

“Our buses are seen across Edinburgh and the Lothians every day, so they provide a fantastic platform to share this important message.

“We hope the new design will encourage people to pause, reflect and show their support for this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.”

Leanne Bonner, Head of Scotland at Poppyscotland, said: “With the unveiling of this year’s wonderful Lothian Buses poppy bus, we are reminded that the sacrifices of service extend far beyond the frontline, reaching deep into our local communities.

“We are incredibly grateful to Lothian Buses for their steadfast, continued support in bringing this message to the streets of Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“Partnerships like this ensure that military families receive the recognition and support they rightfully deserve. Every donation to the Scottish Poppy Appeal goes toward providing life-changing financial aid, housing support, employment advice, and mental health services to our veteran and service community here in Scotland.”

Veterans and active servicemen and women of the armed forces will also be invited to travel for free on board Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams on Remembrance Sunday (8 November) and Armistice Day (11 November) this year.

Both operators employ many former service personnel, and this year they are welcoming those in uniform or with an appropriate form of identification to travel for free across the network on these two days of national remembrance.

Two minutes’ silence will also be observed on both days by the operators, with bus and tram services pausing where safe to do so as a mark of remembrance.

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Sanne Dijkstra-Downie responds to Daily Express article

Sanne Dijkstra-Downie, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh Northern, has made a statement in response to an article published in the Daily Express, SNP Government fund group which wants police and councils to not cooperate with immigration raids in Scotland which can be found HERE:

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Sanne Dijkstra-Downie said: “I am deeply disappointed to see the rhetoric of Reform UK and their attack on Project Esperanza, which does immeasurable work for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“Project Esperanza provides support for migrant, refugee, and racially minoritised women, children, and families across Edinburgh and Scotland who are navigating poverty, insecure immigration status, racialised policing, gender-based violence, housing precarity, and barriers to healthcare, employment, and education. Without them, people in my constituency and beyond would lack life-changing support.

“A vital service such as this does not deserve to have its work demonised, nor should charities and community organisations representing the needs of the communities they serve have their legitimacy challenged simply because of the people they support.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in the place they call home, and organisations like Project Esperanza help make that safety a reality for women, children and families in Edinburgh.

“The Scottish Liberal Democrats firmly stand in solidarity with targeted communities and rejects racism across the city.”

You can read the Reform UK article HERE

Crimestoppers: Illegal firework use

Did you know it’s illegal to set off or throw fireworks in a public space, like your street or the local park?

If you know someone putting themselves or others at risk by letting off fireworks or deliberately starting fires, you can speak to Crimestoppers.

Anything you share with them stays 100% anonymous. Always.

Click to learn more: https://orlo.uk/LZ6L6

#TomorrowWeStillLiveHere

Scottish folk stars’ musical friendship sparkles for Christmas Songbook

The much-loved Scottish Christmas Songbook will be putting musical friendships and collaboration centre stage in Edinburgh this December as a cast of Scottish folk stars unite to spread a hearty dose of festive cheer.

The high-spirited Christmas show brings together some of the finest voices and performers in Scottish folk and contemporary traditional music, as they take their special brand of seasonal spirit to Queen’s Hall on Saturday 19, Sunday 20th and Tuesday 22 December 2026.

Originally fronted by Phil Cunningham, the Christmas Songbook has grown into one of Scotland’s best-loved festive musical gatherings.

The 2026 edition will see the spirit of camaraderie and togetherness that has long been the defining feature of the annual tradition, warmly embraced in this next chapter as the Scottish Christmas Songbook.

Treasured singers Eddi Reader and Karen Matheson, renowned fiddle and whistle player John McCusker, beloved Orcadian roots star Kris Drever, Irish accordionist Alan Kelly, guitar virtuoso Ian Carr, and sought-after double bassist Kevin McGuire, will once again join forces, accompanied by the Scottish Christmas Songbook Brass Ensemble, for an on-stage Christmas party to remember.

Harmony, joy, warmth and some intangible Christmas sparkle will be dished out as the seven performers – all world-class musicians in their own right – fill Concert Halls up and down the country with a mix of uplifting festive pop songs, moving carols and unique takes on some Christmas classics.

The performance, which perfectly blends an upbeat, feel-good atmosphere with nostalgic, heartwarming moments, will showcase soaring vocals, rich melodies, playful storytelling and exquisite musicianship.

Karen Matheson said: “The Christmas Songbook is truly one of my favourite parts of the year – getting to tour with this group of close friends and collaborators, making space for joy and reflection, and then getting to share all of that with audiences, is such an honour.

“2026 has been a particularly tough year for many so it’s really important to us that we’re able to share some seasonal spirit in musical form, extend a hand of friendship and lift others up this December. Come away in, leave the world outside for a wee while and let us bring some Christmas magic your way.”

John McCusker said: “Christmas Songbook has always been an incredible collaborative effort and this year we are celebrating the good pals, great tunes and generosity of spirit that bind us together.

“Everyone brings something different to the party, which is a big part of the fun, and there’s an unmistakable warmth at the heart of it which will be palpable this year.

“The run of the Scottish Christmas Songbook nights in Edinburgh are sure to be merry and bright, and a bit like Santa and his sleigh, we can’t wait to hit the road this December!”

The Scottish Christmas Songbook will stop off at Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh on Saturday 19, Sunday 20 and Tuesday 22 December. 

Tickets are on sale now at www.thescottishchristmassongbook.co.uk.

Celebrate Halloween at Historic Scotland sites across Edinburgh!

A range of frighteningly fun activities are happening across the city this Halloween

Halloween shenanigans will descend on Historic Scotland sites across Edinburgh this October with a range of spooktacular and family friendly events taking place across the country’s spookiest city. 

Edinburgh Castle will become Edin-boo! Castle on Saturday 31 October with historic characters haunting the nooks and crannies of the castle. Look out for Mary Queen of Scots and James IV waiting to tell their grisly stories and secrets to any visitor brave enough to face them. 

Step into a truly enchanting Halloween experience at Craigmillar Castle as it becomes  Craig-thriller Castle on Saturday 31 October, giving Edinburgh residents and visitors the chance to meet the Master of Owls, who will introduce a captivating collection of owls set against the castle’s wonderfully eerie backdrop.

Along the way, encounter Ravina, ready to share chilling tales that will spark your imagination. Discover the story behind the legendary jack o’ lantern, and join in with Halloween riddles and songs that are sure to delight all ages. Keep your eyes open… there might even be a touch of magic in the air! 

MANDITORY CREDIT: ROB MCDOUGALL

Kit Reid, Head of Experience at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said: “Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and haunting tales, so what better way to spend Halloween than by getting stuck in at one of our iconic historic sites, which provide the perfect setting for a frightfully fun day out for all the family. 

“Why not dive into the darker stories behind some of Edinburgh’s beloved historical places by meeting historical characters who will be stepping out of the shadows this weekend to share secrets of the past with anyone brave enough to meet them. 

“We’re very excited to welcome visitors of all ages this Halloween to our sites where they can enjoy a ghoulishly good time!” 

Halloween Shenanigans at Edin-boo! Castle is taking place from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 31 October at Edinburgh Castle. 

Halloween Shenanigans at Craig-thriller Castle is taking place from 11:30am to 3pm on Saturday 31 October at Craigmillar Castle. 

For further information and to plan your visit, head to

historicenvironment.scot/halloween.

Entry to daytime events is free for Historic Scotland members.  

The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass also allows visitors to explore 5,000 years of history over 14 days. Entry to Edinburgh Castle and Craigmillar Castle, as well as other sites across Scotland, is free for Explorer Pass holders.

Advance booking is required.   

St Columba’s Christmas Pop-Up Shop

6 – 8 NOVEMBER from 10am – 4pm

As the evenings get darker, and the temperature continues to drop, attention here at the Hospice is turning to all things Christmas!

The Pop-Up Shop is traditionally our first Christmas event of the year, and this year it’s back for another bumper year!

From 10am- 4pm on the 6,7 & 8 November, Fidra will be a veritable Santa’s Grotto, stocked with Christmas cards, gifts, stocking fillers, and other seasonal essentials.

We can’t wait to see you all!

Sale of nicotine products to under-18s banned

Changes to protect young people from nicotine addiction

Under-18s will no longer be able to buy nicotine or herbal smoking products in Scotland, under new legislation which comes into force today (29 October).

The ban to protect children and young people from the harms of nicotine addiction, extends the protections in age-of-sale rules to all nicotine products, including pouches, strips and pearls, as well as herbal smoking products.

The new rules for Scotland also require anyone selling vaping, tobacco, nicotine and herbal smoking products to hold a valid registration by 29 April 2027. Once in force, it will mean Scotland will become the only nation in the UK to know exactly where these items are being sold.

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “We want to protect future generations from nicotine addiction and we know that nicotine products, particularly pouches, are starting to gain popularity among young people.

“By banning the sale of these products to under-18s, the Scottish Government is taking a crucial step in protecting people’s health. This in turn is helping people across Scotland to live longer, healthier lives.

“Requiring tobacco and vape retailers to register their business to sell nicotine and herbal smoking products, will also provide a strong foundation for effective regulation and enforcement of the sale of these products in Scotland. I want to thank all of the retailers who have already registered and remind others they must to do so before the deadline next April.”

Chief Medical Officer Gregor Smith said: ”Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms including depression, difficulty concentrating and insomnia.

“Whilst vapes may have a role to play in assisting addicted people to stop smoking, it is very clear to me that those who do not smoke should never start using nicotine products and this especially applies to children and young people.

“I welcome these new age of sale restrictions on nicotine and herbal smoking products which and will help reduce the health harms associated with nicotine addiction and address health inequalities in Scotland.”  

The ban forms part of Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026. Local authorities will be responsible for enforcing the regulations. 

Legislation restricting the sale of nicotine products, non-nicotine vaping products and herbal smoking products  to under-18s in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has also come into force today. All vaping products are already age restricted products in Scotland.

Key changes in Scotland include:

  • Age of sale for nicotine products and herbal smoking products. Only people aged 18 and over will be able to purchase these products
  • Proxy purchase  extended to cover adults aged 18 or over from buying or attempting to buy nicotine products and herbal smoking products on behalf of someone under 18
  • Retail register will be expanded to include nicotine products and herbal smoking products. Retailers have from 29 October 2026 to 29 April 2027 to register before enforcement starts
  • Free distribution. It will be an offence to give away any vaping or nicotine product, or coupon, to a member of the public
  • Substantial discount (sometimes known as nominal pricing). It will be an offence to sell vaping or nicotine products or coupons for these products at a substantial discount
  • Vending machines will no longer be able to sell nicotine products and herbal smoking products

Double delight as new mum celebrates graduation with baby twins

Daniela Rea Keegan completed her Masters at Edinburgh Napier University

A new mum who submitted her final piece of coursework two days before giving birth to twins has celebrated her graduation with her baby sons.

Daniela Rea Keegan discovered she was pregnant shortly after beginning her Masters in Real Estate Management & Investment at Edinburgh Napier University.

The 29-year-old from Glasgow continued with her studies, passing her final exam while her boys, Matteo and Lorenzo, were just three months old.

They joined Daniela at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall where she collected her degree, which she completed with distinction.

It is her second graduation with ENU, having previously studied for a BSc (Hons) in Architectural Technology, which she completed in 2019.

Her graduation marks the end of a whirlwind time for Daniela, having also married her boyfriend of 10 years shortly before she returned to university.

Celebrating her graduation, Daniela said: “There were definitely moments when it would have been easier to put my studies on hold, but becoming a mum made me even more determined to finish what I had started.

“I was determined to continue with my degree, although my pregnancy became increasingly challenging. I attended regular clinics and had to manage my studies remotely, while also dealing with the demands and uncertainty of a twin pregnancy.

“I wanted to achieve the degree for myself, but also to show my boys one day that even when life takes an unexpected turn, you can still keep working towards something that matters to you.”

The final, defining moments of Daniela’s studies arrived in quick succession. She submitted her last piece of coursework just two days before the boys were born by emergency caesarean section.

Because of the birth, she was unable to sit her final exam at the original time, returning to complete it when her sons were just three months old.

She also continued working on and eventually submitted my dissertation while caring for the two newborns.

Daniela added: “Being able to graduate after such an intense and life-changing journey, with my twin boys there to see it, makes the occasion incredibly special.

“Looking back, it has been a year of huge change, challenge and determination, and completing my Masters with distinction is something I will always be proud of.”

Daniela graduated alongside fellow students from Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment.

ENU’s autumn graduation ceremonies are being held at the Usher Hall between 27-30October 2026.

Tomorrow: Bitesize parenting support session at Drumbrae Library Hub

FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER 10.30 – 11.30am

Drumbrae Library Hub are delighted to be hosting Bitesize Learning Sessions for Parents and Carers!

Parenting can be challenging at times. Bitesize Parenting Support are here to help! Sometimes we all need a bit of help and advice.

Come along this Friday for the ‘Supporting Healthy Digital Habits’ parent and carer workshop

30th October 2026 at 10:30am

All events are free with no need to book

#GoAllIn