On Wednesday 17 June Lymphoma Action will be holding an in-person Live your Life workshop for anyone in Edinburgh who has been affected by lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.
Lymphoma Action’s Live your Life workshops have been developed to support people who have come to the end of their treatment for lymphoma, or who are being monitored by their healthcare team as their lymphoma doesn’t need treatment straight away (also known as ‘active monitoring’ or ‘watch and wait’.)
These unique and interactive workshops are led by someone with a personal experience of lymphoma, and aim to provide support in managing the emotional aspects of the condition, as well as treatment side effects.
They also provide useful information around staying active, nutrition and practical tips to support the general wellbeing of those living with and beyond lymphoma, and give people the chance to talk to others and to share their experiences.
Attendees are welcome to bring a friend or family member to the workshop too.
Whilst the in person Live your Life event is free to attend, booking is essential. Please note that these workshops are not recorded, so the only way to experience them is to be there!
To find out more, or to book a place, or to book a place, visit:
Lymphoma Action is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to supporting people affected by lymphoma, the most common blood cancer. We are here for everyone affected by lymphoma and provide expert information, dedicated support and a community that understands – right from day one.
This year marks our 40-year anniversary, and we are grateful to all those who have supported us along the way in our mission to make sure no one has to face lymphoma alone.
Edinburgh Green Councillors have announced a new team to serve as their Co-Convenors. Cllr Alys Mumford and Cllr Ben Parker were chosen by their fellow Green councillors to lead the group for the final year of this council term at a group meeting on Monday 18 May.
The announcement comes after serving Co-Convenor Cllr Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill stepped down from the role after being elected an MSP, while her colleague Cllr Chas Booth came to the end of his two-year term.
Edinburgh Green councillors have a two-year term limit on convening the group, in order reflect the principle that power should not be concentrated, that diversity of experience and skills is an asset, and that everybody should have the opportunity to take on leadership positions.
Alys and Ben have previously acted as Co-Convenors for the group from 2022-2024.
Incoming Co-Convenor Cllr Alys Mumford said: “We are entering a pivotal year for the Green group, as we hope to build on the success of the Holyrood election and see the biggest group of Green Councillors in the chamber in 2027.
“At the same time, we need to continue our strong record of holding this failing ultra-minority Labour administration to account and fighting for our constituents to have the public services they deserve.
“Over the past four years, Green Councillors in Edinburgh have secured massive investment in social housing, protected our residents from the worst of the cuts to public services, and won long-overdue action to tackle the climate crisis.
“I’m delighted that the group have put their faith in me and Ben to be their co-conveners once again and we can’t wait to get to work on some of the pressing issues facing this Council.”
Fellow incoming Co-Convenor Cllr Ben Parker said: “Coming off the back of a fantastic set of election results for Holyrood, I’m excited to take over the reins as Co-Convener with Alys.
“Having already worked together as group Co-Conveners in the first couple of years of this Council term, I’m sure we will be able to pick up where we left off. I also want to say a big thank you to outgoing Co-Conveners Chas Booth and Kayleigh Kinross O’Neill who have left big shoes to fill.
“We have an exciting year ahead preparing for the Council elections in 2027. Already, we have an excellent pipeline of candidates and a fantastic manifesto in development. With less than a year to go before polling day, momentum is with the Greens and I’m excited to see where the next year (and beyond) will take us.”
Outgoing Co-Convenor Cllr Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill said: “Co-convening with Chas has been a pleasure in this Council term and I have immensely enjoyed having oversight of our brilliant Green group.
“Being elected to Holyrood is such a privilege and knowing that the Green group are in such good hands for the next year means I can cheer on from the sidelines as we come towards May 2027.“
Outgoing Co-Convenor Cllr Chas Booth said: “I’m delighted that Edinburgh Green Councillors have selected such a strong team to take over from Kayleigh and I and to steer the group towards the council elections in 2027.
“Following the Green surge at Holyrood less than a fortnight ago, this is an exciting time to be a Green councillor and I’m looking forward to supporting the incoming co-convenors as we prepare for the council elections next year.“
“It has been a pleasure and a privilege to co-convene the group alongside Kayleigh for the last year. Her hard work, strategic wisdom and dry sense of humour have brought passion and insight to the role. The Green Group’s loss is Holyrood’s gain and while she will be missed as co-convenor, I am delighted she is staying on as a councillor for the remainder of the term.”
The Pensions Commission has today (19 May) published its interim report on the state of retirement saving in the UK, setting out the key challenges facing the current system and where it will focus its work next.
Interim report highlights key challenges in retirement saving across the UK with 15 million people currently undersaving for retirement.
Findings sets direction for further work to improve retirement outcomes ahead of final recommendations in 2027.
Commission set up as part of government’s wider reforms to pensions system to help more people retire with dignity.
The Pensions Commission has today (19 May) published its interim report on the state of retirement saving in the UK, setting out the key challenges facing the current system and where it will focus its work next.
The report highlights that many people are not saving enough for retirement, particularly among low and middle earners, the self‑employed and women, and points to the need for the system to evolve to meet modern working lives.
There are currently 15 million people under saving for retirement which could reach 19 million without action, leaving large groups across the UK facing a severe cliff-edge when they retire, according to a new report from the Pensions Commission.
Set up by the Government in July 2025, the Commission aims to address a savings challenge that has been building for decades, examining why tomorrow’s retirees’ risk being worse off than today’s and making recommendations to reverse this.
This follows the success of the 2002 to 2006 Commission which built a consensus for the roll-out of Automatic Enrolment into pension saving, resulting in 89% of eligible employees now saving into their pensions, up from 55% in 2012.
Its findings include:
Low and middle earners are most at risk, with around half saving only at minimum Automatic Enrolment levels with little else to fall back on.
45% of working-age adults – around 18 million people – are not saving into a pension at all, despite nearly half of them being in work.
Where employers are contributing about the statutory minimum this is largely benefiting higher earners.
Just 4% – one in 25 – of wholly self-employed workers are saving for retirement, and it’s even lower among younger self-employed people.
On current trends around 3 in 10 private pension pots are accessed at the earliest possible opportunity with half of all pots taken out in full. Nearly half of these are spent on large expenses like a car, holiday or renovations.
The Commission examined why tomorrow’s retirees are on track to be poorer than today’s with too many working age adults are saving nothing at all into a pension. A final report with recommendations will follow in early 2027.
Pensions Commissioner, Baroness Jeannie Drake said: “Over the past two decades since the Turner Commission there is no doubt pensions reform can be described as a success. Yet the second Pensions Commission is looking forward and seeing many people not saving enough and millions not saving at all.
“This demands a renewed national settlement on pensions.
“Achieving this will require clarity of purpose, but it also offers a moment of opportunity; to renew a social contract that commands confidence across the country.
“The recommendations we present in our final report will address the need to secure adequate income in later life and a pension system that is fit for decades to come.”
The Commission will set out the course to improving future outcomes whilst ensuring the system is fair and sustainable within and between generations.
Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell MP, said: “Britain has got back into the pension saving habit, but the job is only half done with tomorrow’s pensioners still on track to be poorer than today’s.
“The Pensions Commission sets out clearly the scale of the challenge: not enough people are saving for retirement, and many of those that are aren’t saving enough.”
The Commission warns that without action millions more people could be at risk of becoming reliant on state support in retirement.
It adds that there is much for public policy to do to shape the future of pensions, whilst maintaining the broad political consensus pensions has had since the Turner Commission in the 2000s. The Commission is clear that change must happen in the right way, with any recommendations for change implemented gradually.
The Government has ruled out any changes to Automatic Enrolment contributions this Parliament.
Dr Yvonne Braun, ABI Director of Long-Term Savings Policy said: “The report makes a powerful case for a new national settlement for pensions. Automatic enrolment is a sturdy foundation, but must evolve to meet the scale of the challenges ahead.
“We and our members stand ready to work with the Commission to deepen saving, extend coverage and support better decisions in retirement, so that everyone can look forward to greater financial security in later life.
“Over the next year the Commission will hear a wide range of views before presenting its final report and recommendations in early 2027. A call for views from all interested parties has also launched today.
Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Which? said: “Which? welcomes this interim report from the Pensions Commission and the valuable evidence it brings together on the UK’s pension adequacy challenge.
“It is very encouraging to see recognition of the need to increase private pension saving rates and coverage, while also acknowledging the financial pressures caused by the cost of living crisis.
The report rightly highlights that too many working people are projected to reach later life without sufficient savings, and that women, carers, the self-employed and many ethnic minority groups continue to face structural barriers. It is also promising to see a strong focus on how to support people to use their pension savings throughout retirement.
“Which? looks forward to continuing to work with the Commission, industry and wider civil society groups to help drive the reforms needed so people are better prepared for retirement.”
Julian Mund, Chief Executive of Pensions UK, said: “Pensions UK welcomes the breadth and ambition of this report, and shares the Commission’s view that we need a new national settlement on pensions.
“Evidence presented in the report clearly strengthens the case for more pension saving over longer working lives, alongside systemic change that delivers sustainable incomes – building on welcome reforms in the Pension Schemes Act.
“We look forward to working with Government to explore how that diagnosis can be turned into a practical roadmap for reform, well before the next generation fall short of the retirement incomes they expect and deserve.”
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK: “We welcome this new report from the Pensions Commission, which provides an excellent analysis of the problems facing our pensions system today.
“This is the first and necessary step for ensuring the pensions system of the future enables tomorrow’s older people to have a decent standard of living.
“There’s a clear need to improve the way the State Pension and private pension systems work together; otherwise people on low incomes are at risk of falling through the cracks and hurtling towards their retirements without the required funds, or the time to make up the shortfall.
“We look forward to working with the Commission as it explores the best solutions for future pensioners.”
Aside from the commission, the government is also reforming the pension landscape and improving retirement for today’s workers. The Pension Schemes Act, passed this month, will benefit 22 million workers by up to £29,000 by the time they retire, driving down costs, boosting returns and enabling the automatic consolation of small pension pots to ensure every pound saved works harder for working people.
Louise Hellem, Chief Economist, CBI, said: “The publication of the Pensions Commission’s interim report is an important step towards building a long-term framework that delivers adequate living standards in retirement. Getting this right requires the government, businesses and individuals all to play their role in supporting better saving.
“As the debate progresses, it is vital that retirement adequacy is considered hand in hand with the UK’s growth ambitions. Strong economic growth underpins sustainable pension outcomes by supporting employment and higher sustainable wage growth, enabling individuals to save, and driving stronger investment returns over time.
“It is only growth that can sufficiently reduce difficult trade-offs and maintain political, public and business support for change.”
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “Workers deserve a pension system that guarantees against poverty in retirement and enables them to maintain their standard of living.
“Although millions more people are now building up workplace pensions, far too many on low and middle incomes are not heading for a decent retirement – with women, Black and minority ethnic and disabled workers, and those in the gig economy at highest risk.
“The Commission must now develop a bold plan to fix this, which will need to include higher employer contributions and a fair deal for those currently missing out.”
Nausicaa Delfas, Chief Executive of The Pensions Regulator, said: “The pensions system is still unfinished business with too many people on track for an inadequate retirement income.
“That is why we welcome the Pensions Commission report, and look forward to continuing to work with the Commission, Government and industry to create a system which delivers what matters most: a sustainable income in retirement for everyone.
Independent Age Chief Executive Joanna Elson, CBE reacts to the Pension Commission’s interim report:“We welcome the Pension Commission’s interim report, which clearly sets out the challenges future pensioners will face in securing an adequate income.
“It is positive that the Commission recognises the vital role of the State Pension and social security entitlements in supporting those on low incomes. The findings that certain groups, including women and disabled people, are at greater risk of under-saving are concerning, but not unexpected. They echo our own research, which shows that these groups are more likely to experience poverty in later life.
“With 1.7 million older people currently living in poverty and 1 million more hovering precariously on the edge, it is clear change is needed to ensure a future where everyone in later life has a dignified and financially secure older age.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Commission as it develops its final recommendations.”
POLICE are appealing for information after the driver of a van failed to stop after colliding with a man standing on the verge off the A720 Edinburgh city bypass near the Sheriffhall roundabout.
The incident happened around 3pm yesterday (Sunday, 17 May), following a minor crash at the roundabout.
The occupants were exchanging details when a white van collided with the 29-year-old man at the side of the eastbound carriageway. He sustained an arm injury but did not require hospital treatment.
The driver of the vehicle, described as a Citroen Relay style van, did not stop and enquiries are ongoing to trace them.
Constable Stewart Logan said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to find the driver of this vehicle and we are asking anyone who saw the incident to get in touch.
“If you were driving in the area around this time please also check any dash-cam you have to see if it has captured what happened.
“I am also appealing to the driver to get in touch.”
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1833 of Sunday, 17 May, 2026.
Cruden submits planning to transform former Xcite site
Five-star housebuilder Cruden has submitted plans for a major new affordable housing development at Almondvale Parkway in Livingston.
The proposals would transform the former Xcite Livingston site into 121 high-quality affordable homes, alongside new landscaping, parking and improved walking and cycling connections through the area.
Located within Livingston town centre, the 1.2-hectare brownfield site was previously home to the popular Bubbles Swimming Pool, which closed in 2023 and was demolished last year. Cruden’s plans would bring the vacant site back into use and create a new residential community in a highly accessible location.
The development includes a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, including retirement housing and wheelchair-accessible homes, helping to meet growing demand for affordable and energy-efficient housing in West Lothian.
Designed with sustainability and connectivity at its core, the plans would retain a large area of mature woodland while introducing additional planting, biodiversity features and new green spaces throughout the site. Enhanced pedestrian links would also improve connections between Almondvale Boulevard, nearby cycle routes and the football stadium beyond.
The homes have been designed to maximise natural light and energy efficiency, with the majority benefiting from south-facing living spaces. The development includes low-carbon technology, including heat pump systems and roof-mounted solar panels.
Demonstrating its continued commitment to West Lothian, Cruden recently completed a 146-home development at Almondvale for West Lothian Housing Partnership, alongside projects at Sydney Street in Livingston and in East Calder.
Andrew Duncan, Land Director of Cruden, said:“Our plans will transform this prominent brownfield site into a high-quality affordable housing development that will bring new life into this part of Livingston town centre.
“The former Xcite site holds strong memories for many local people, and we want to create a development that delivers lasting benefits for the community through much-needed affordable homes and high-quality green space.
“Environmental considerations have been incorporated into the scheme through measures such as woodland retention, active travel connections, and energy-efficient homes that can help reduce running costs for residents.”
The planning application follows a detailed design and consultation process with West Lothian Council and the local community. Subject to planning approval, Cruden intends to begin work on site in early 2027.
Ice Cream is now Sipped! Pepsi® has unveiled its new Ice Cream Zero Sugar Flavour range, with three new delicious cola flavours, made to refresh you with a smooth taste and zero-sugar sweetness—perfect for a summer treat. Should you lick it, bite it, scoop it? No, you sip it!
The new flavours are set to launch exclusively in Tesco from 18th May, with Cherry & Vanilla Ice Cream Flavour and Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream Flavour rolling out nationwide from 14th July onwards.
This trio has been meticulously crafted for a generation that has mastered the art of intentional treating. In an era defined by constant hustle, Pepsi is reframing the ‘Treat’ moment.
Pepsi’s unique new flavours double up as the ultimate sweet treat to cool the summer heat. Cold, bold and surreal, the new flavours reimagine and remix the ice cream and Pepsi combination, bringing a whole new vibe to treating yourself – with zero sugar. With a classic Pepsi base, the new flavours add a creamy, sweet kick to the iconic cola recipe, twisting your senses.
Life today is lived in micro-moments, those blink and you’ll miss it victories – like finally hitting “send” on an email, replying to those messages that have been on read for weeks, or simply making it through a long Monday. These quiet wins are the real status symbols of Gen Z culture, and Pepsi is here to make sure they don’t go unnoticed, by redefining the treat moment for a new generation.
The new trio of delectable new zero sugar flavours include:
Cherry & Vanilla Ice Cream Flavour: A smooth, sweet, and totally indulgent taste sensation
Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream Flavour: A tangy, creamy, nostalgic dream – in a can.
Salted Caramel Ice Cream Flavour: The ultimate flavour flex. Sweet meets salty in a fizzy, treaty collision!
Natalia Fillipociants, SVP and General Manager Europe International Beverages, PepsiCo , said: ‘’At Pepsi, we know it’s the small moments that can feel like a win and deserve something refreshing.
“Our new ice cream-inspired flavours are made to be a fun, zero-sugar summer treat that’s a little unexpected in the best way. We hope people enjoy cracking one open, trying something different, and making it their go-to refreshment this summer’’.
The new Ice Cream flavours come as an expansion of Pepsi’s Treats range, following the craze surrounding the launch of Strawberries & Cream and Cream Soda flavours last year.
The irresistible new range will be available to buy in four different formats – individual 330ml cans, an 8 can multipack, plus 500ml and 1.5 litre bottles.
For more information on the new flavours and brand news, visit Pepsi UK on Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok and X.
2026 Scotland Loves Local Awards launched – including search to find the nation’s Town of the Year
People across Edinburgh and the Lothians are being urged to celebrate their high street heroes.Nominations have opened for the 2026 Scotland Loves Local Awards – including those for Town of the Year.
The accolades recognise and reward the people and organisations who make communities better places to live, work and visit.
And residents are being encouraged to nominate those who they would like to be named as a High Street Hero – with one being honoured in each of Scotland’s eight Scottish Parliament regions.
People can also put their home area forward for the national accolades of Town of the Year and Innovation in Place.
The awards are organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) as an extension of its wider Scotland Loves Local campaign, which encourages people to help grow stronger communities by supporting the enterprises, organisations and initiatives in them.
Last year’s heroes included Paul Boyle of Boghall Butchers in Bathgate, recognising more than 50 years of commitment to serving his community.
Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Chief Officer, said: “Remarkable, determined and innovative work is taking place across Edinburgh and the Lothians which is making communities better places to live, work and visit. The Scotland Loves Local Awards are an opportunity to celebrate all of that.
“We are looking forward to hearing more about the places, projects and people who are leading the way with inspirational action which really does make a difference – and having the chance to celebrate their achievements.”
Now in their sixth year, the Scotland Loves Local Awards recognise leadership, innovation and community action that supports thriving local places – from transformational regeneration projects and entrepreneurial community initiatives to the individuals going above and beyond to make a difference.
They highlight the impact of place-based collaboration in delivering stronger, greener and more resilient town centres and places.
Nationally, awards will be presented for:
Town of the Year (recognising a town that demonstrates a clear vision, strong partnership working and meaningful progress in creating a vibrant and sustainable place).
Innovation in Place (recognising a specific project or initiative that has delivered meaningful, measurable impact within a town or neighbourhood, celebrating practical work happening on the ground).
Award nominations can be made at www.lovelocal.scot/awards-2026/ , where full category criteria can also be found. There, you can briefly share the details of your nominee and why you would like to see them recognised.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday August 14th, with winners announced in October.
Scotland Loves Local is spearheaded by Scotland’s Towns Partnership with support from the Scottish Government.
The Royal Highland Centre is set to receive a visit from Hollywood royalty as legendary Scottish actor, James Cosmo MBE, has been unveiled as the Great Chieftain for the British Pipe Band Championships 2026 taking place at the Ingliston venue on Saturday 30th May.
Globally recognised thanks to his roles in Braveheart, Highlander, Trainspotting and Game of Thrones, the iconic actor will preside over the championships, welcoming bands and spectators to one of Scotland’s most prestigious cultural gatherings.
Hosted by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) the Championships bring together premier pipe and drum bands from across the UK for a full day of world-class performances. With grade categories ranging from Juvenile to Grade 1, the event will showcase musical talent at every level and provides a platform for young and emerging musicians to shine, including school pipe bands, and will include performances and workshops.
Last year, over 5,000 competitors and spectators attended, including 60 bands, as the Royal Highland Centre proudly hosted the Pipe Band Championships for the first time.
Mark Currie, Director of Venue at the Royal Highland Centre, said: “We are honoured to be hosting James Cosmo and the British Pipe Band Championships at the Royal Highland Centre.
“Thousands of people joined us last year and we’re expecting another great turnout later this month. There’s so much to see including competitions, drum-major displays and now the chance to spot a legendary actor among the phenomenal pipers. It’s a great day out for all the family.”
James Cosmo MBEsaid: “Pipe bands have always been woven into life in Scotland and right across the Britain. There’s a wonderful sense of tradition and community around them.
“You see the hard work that goes into it the hours of practice, the discipline, the pride people take in performing side by side. And the championships are a fine opportunity to celebrate the very best of that spirit.
“This year, more than 210 bands from across the Great Britain will gather to compete, bringing with them extraordinary talent, commitment and experience. Behind every performance are years of effort and a genuine love for the music and tradition.
“But events like this are about more than competition. They’re about people. Families, friendships and communities brought together through music that has endured for generations and still means so much today.
“To everyone taking part, travelling from near or far, and to all those supporting from the sidelines, I hope you enjoy every moment of what promises to be a memorable championship, filled with all the sights and sounds that make pipe band culture so special.”
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the RSPBA said: “Having James Cosmo, a man who embodies Scottish spirit on the global stage, as our Chieftain is a fantastic honour.
“He is widely respected, and his presence will add huge excitement to what is already set to be a spectacular day at the Royal Highland Centre.”
Tickets are available now via the Royal Highland Centre website, and early booking is recommended due to high demand. Children’s tickets are £12.50, adults £15 and family tickets £35. Children under five go free.
Find out more about the event and purchase tickets here:
Researchers and people with Parkinson’s in Scotland are joining forces at a new £10 million research centre, in a push to turn decades of discovery into treatments that could transform lives.
The UK Dementia Research Institute Parkinson’s Research Centre – jointly funded with Parkinson’s UK – launches today and connects research teams at the University of Edinburgh, the University of Oxford and University College London to tackle one of medicine’s most stubborn challenges – why, despite scientific advances, there is still no treatment that can slow or stop the condition progressing.
Together, the teams will investigate why Parkinson’s develops, why it progresses and how cutting-edge science can deliver better diagnosis and treatment.
Parkinson’s affects around 166,000 people in the UK, including 14,000 people in Scotland. Someone is diagnosed every 20 minutes.
The centre is led by Professor Miratul Muqit, a practising neurologist and internationally recognised Parkinson’s researcher based at the University of Edinburgh, whose work has helped reveal how changes in key genes affect the health of brain cells.
Discoveries from this field are helping pave the way for targeted therapies now being tested in early-stage clinical trials.
Professor Miratul Muqit, Director of the UK Dementia Research Institute Parkinson’s Research Centre, said:“We know more about Parkinson’s than ever before – but people living with the condition are still waiting for effective treatments that can slow, stop or prevent it.
“This centre is built to change the pace of progress. By connecting leading teams across Edinburgh, Oxford and London, we can bring different parts of the Parkinson’s puzzle together – from genes and brain cells to brain circuits and symptoms.
“Our ambition is to make this centre a beacon for open, collaborative science.”
Professor David Dexter, Director of Research at Parkinson’s UK, said:“For people living with Parkinson’s, better treatments cannot come soon enough. That is why this centre, and the collaborative philosophy at its heart, is so important.
“It puts people with Parkinson’s alongside world-class researchers, helping make sure the science is focused on the questions and symptoms that could make the biggest difference to everyday life.”
People with Parkinson’s have helped shape the centre’s direction from the very beginning – including sitting on the interview panels that appointed its first research leaders.
Shafaq Hussain-Ali, who has Parkinson’s, was part of the panel that selected the centre’s Group Leaders. He said:“It was a privilege to be involved. The new centre recognises that Parkinson’s research cannot happen without the involvement and participation of the Parkinson’s community.
“Hearing from the researchers about their passion for transformative science has filled me with hope about what is to come.”
