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Stuart Dobbin aims for Holyrood selection

SNP Forth Ward councillor, Stuart Dobbin, has announced he has put his name forward to represent the new Edinburgh Northern constituency at the next Scottish Parliament election next May.

Having been living with his wife, Rosanna, in Inverleith for several years, he knows Northern Edinburgh very well.

As a local councillor he has represented Forth Ward since 2022, and before returning to Scotland worked internationally in business for over a quarter of a century.

As councillor, he is an active presence in the community and recognised by residents and third sector organisations as an energetic and active advocate for them.

He is proud of the success he has had in pressuring the council to change how they respond to tenants living in damp and mould-ridden homes. It shows how he can challenge institutions to achieve outcomes, in this case, that change peoples’ lives for the better and healthier.

Stuart said “This election is about Scotland’s place in the UK, in Europe and, ultimately, in the world. Our country faces challenges that are of a scale radically different to those we face locally.

“Having rid ourselves of the Tory government, we find a Labour Prime Minister who clearly treats Scotland with contempt and is doing nothing to protect our pensioners, the disabled or the workers at Grangemouth. All promises broken.

“I bring a wealth of professional and lived experience. I spent quarter of a century in leadership positions, living and working across Asia, engaging with commercial and government organisations and managing through some very tough times.

“I have proven my commitment and ability to represent my constituents, with the drive and energy to affect change within institutions, with the temperament and broad professional and lived experience that would make me an effective advocate to stand up in the Scottish Parliament to represent Edinburgh Northern and our national interests.”

Father of motorcyclist killed in crash supports Police Scotland’s Motorcycle Safety Campaign

The father of a man who died in a motorcycle crash near Glencoe is supporting Police Scotland’s annual motorcycle safety campaign, which highlights the vulnerability of motorcyclists on Scotland’s roads.

Ross Dominick (above), a 35-year-old father of three from Johnstone, died on Sunday, 23 July, 2023 when a car pulled across his path as he was riding with friends. The crash happened on the A82 at the entrance to the Buachaille Etive Beag car park, in Glencoe, where Ross sadly died at the scene.

His father, Ian Dominick, is supporting the campaign by sharing his son’s story as part of Police Scotland’s wider efforts to raise awareness of the risks faced by motorcyclists.

The campaign follows the publication of a joint study with Transport Scotland examining motorcycle fatalities between January 2015 and August 2024.

The study found that 269 people – including 253 riders and 16 passengers – were killed during that period. Despite accounting for less than 1% of traffic, motorcyclists represented 18% of all road fatalities in Scotland.

Ross’ father, Ian Dominick (above), said: “Ross was just an ordinary guy doing what he loved – out on a sunny day on a motorbike with his friends. And he never came home.

“We’re not the same people we were before – it changed everything. Our outlook on life now is just take every day as it comes, because you don’t know when it’ll be taken from you.

“His family haven’t had the opportunity to grow up with him, he hasn’t had the opportunity to see his family grow up.

“My message to everyone using the roads is simple – open your eyes and look again. If you can’t do that, you shouldn’t be on the roads. Everyone deserves to get home safely.”

Inspector Ally Johnson, from Police Scotland’s National Motorcycle Unit said: “Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable road users. They have far less protection than those in cars, and when things go wrong, the consequences can be devastating.

“We’re encouraging motorcyclists to take their time, understand the risks, and enjoy the roads safely – particularly when overtaking, on bends or approaching junctions. As part of that, we’d encourage riders to consider opportunities like Rider Refinement, a one-day course, that helps improve skills and build awareness of the risks involved.

“Other road users also have a responsibility to look out for motorcyclists, especially at junctions where visibility can be limited. Everyone has a part to play in keeping the roads safe.”

Anyone interested in attending a Rider Refinement course can find more information and book a place via the Institute of Advanced Motorists website or by searching ‘Rider Refinement Scotland’ online.

Council Leader pays tribute to Councillor Val Walker

COUNCIL LEADER CLLLR JANE MEAGHER COMMENTS ON THE SAD PASSING OF HER COLLEAGUE, CULTURE & COMMUNITIES CONVENER CLLR VAL WALKER

Councillor Jane Meagher said: “I was extremely sad to hear of Val’s sudden and unexpected death and my thoughts are with her family and friends.

“It was a privilege to get to know Val, both as a friend and colleague. What struck me from the very beginning was her intelligence, her wit but, most of all, her warmth and kindness. Even in the heat of political debate she would always remain calm, constructive and respectful of other people’s views.

“Prior to becoming a councillor, her roles in education and library services over many years gave her a long-lasting passion for reading, something that she loved to share with others – helping them to discover the wonderful world of books and libraries.

“Alongside this, she campaigned tirelessly for the Labour Party, as she did for the rights of workers, women and single parents. She spent thousands of hours knocking on doors and speaking to local residents – and I know that being elected as councillor for Fountainbridge and Craiglockhart in 2022 filled her with huge pride, something that stayed with her throughout.

“She brought the same determination to her role as Chair of the Council’s Joint Consultative Committee and I know she was held in the highest regard by the Trade Unions, who recognised a lifetime of activism and support.

“Val’s other great passion for theatre, and the arts more generally, made her the perfect choice for Culture and Communities Convener, a role that she approached with vigour and enthusiasm. She was never happier than when she’d managed to find a way of reaching consensus with all parties and I know that she was trusted and admired by colleagues from across the chamber.

“She was also a great champion of the festivals, and of the benefits they bring to our city’s reputation, but – in typically balanced fashion – an equally fierce defender of our parks and greenspaces and the huge enjoyment they bring to our residents.

“Val is a great loss to the council, to her colleagues and to the city. We will miss her immensely.”

‘Everyone at the Unite City of Edinburgh Council branch is saddened to hear that Councillor Val Walker has passed away. We know her as a solid supporter of worker’s rights.

‘She will be dearly missed.’

Flags will be lowered at the City Chambers as a mark of respect.

Letters: The Great Labour Betrayal – From Welfare State to Warfare State

DEAR EDITOR

When Labour swept to power in 2024, they promised a “year of change” built on fairness, economic security, and real support for working people. Nine months on, millions of voters who believed in that vision are left wondering: where did that promise go?

Take the Winter Fuel Allowance. Labour pledged to protect pensioners, but instead, they’ve means-tested this vital support, stripping £300 a year from 10 million elderly households. For pensioners in Scotland, where fuel poverty is already a crisis, this is more than a broken promise, it’s a direct hit on dignity and security in retirement.

Then there’s the closure of Grangemouth Refinery, Scotland’s largest industrial site. While Labour’s manifesto talked up industrial renewal, the reality has been the loss of thousands of skilled jobs and a blow to local communities. Promised “Just Transition” funding has stalled, and the government’s silence is deafening.

Small businesses, too, are feeling the squeeze. Labour’s hike in employer National Insurance contributions, hits small shops and local employers hardest. Big chains can pass on costs, but for independent bakers and butchers, this could be the final straw. This isn’t “backing British or Scottish business”, it’s making survival harder for the backbone of our communities.

Labour has refused to tax extreme wealth or impose windfall taxes on energy giants. Meanwhile, households face rising bills, not the £300 cut Labour promised. Their much-touted energy plan has faltered, and green levies are pushing costs even higher, especially painful in Scotland’s long, cold winters.

Welfare cuts are another blow. The government’s own figures show that recent changes will push 250,000 more people, including 50,000 children into poverty. Universal Credit health payments are frozen, and support for the sick and disabled is being slashed. This is austerity by another name, and it’s hitting the most vulnerable hardest.

Perhaps most telling is Labour’s decision to pour billions into defence, aiming for the highest military spending since the Cold War, while cutting £15 billion from public services. For Scotland, where Labour refuses to devolve full fiscal powers or reverse Tory-era cuts, the sense of betrayal is acute. Many now feel Labour is more interested in appeasing the centre than standing up for the people who put them in office.

This isn’t the change we were promised. It’s a retreat into old, failed policies that deepen inequality and erode trust. The working class deserves more than slogans and spin. It’s time for Labour to remember who they serve – and for all of us to hold them to account.

We urge voters and the media to hold this government to account. The working class deserves more than empty slogans and reheated Thatcherism.

Yours sincerely,

Dhruva Kumar

Former Glasgow South MP Candidate

Depute Convenor, Media Officer, Alba Party Glasgow

Free tickets available for service marking 140 years of SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been commemorating its 140^th year throughout 2025, with a service set for Edinburgh at 2pm on Saturday, 31 May, at St Mary’s Episcopal Church.

The charity was founded in 1885 after The Times published a letter from Major – later Colonel Sir – James Gildea, asking the public to support the wives, widows and children of soldiers and sailors who were killed, injured or rendered incapacitated through service to Queen and Country.

This, effectively, was the foundation stone of what became the Soldiers’, Sailors’, and Families’ Association, which in 1919 added Airmen to its title, becoming later SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

The event at St Mary’s Episcopal Church will recognise the contributions made by SSAFA’s volunteers and supporters for the past 140 years. It begins at 2pm on Saturday, 31 May, with several special performances throughout.

Performers include pipers, drummers and dancers from Queen Victoria School, The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, the King’s Own Scottish Borderers Pipes and Drums, and the Edinburgh Military Wives Choir.

Sandra Millar, Corporate and Special Events Officer, Scotland at SSAFA, commented: “We hope to welcome as many people as possible to the service in May to show our collective support for the Armed Forces community.

“The event will recognise the efforts of SSAFA’s employees and volunteers, past and present, who provide practical and emotional support to serving Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families across Scotland and beyond.”

It is free to attend, however guests are encouraged to register their attendance by visiting: https://www.ssafa.org.uk/support-us/events/community/ssafa-140-cathedral-service/

SSAFA has been working for the whole UK Armed Forces community for 140 years, since 1885. Its mission is simple: to reach and embrace the Armed Forces family, so they never battle alone.

BBC Alba gives viewers access all areas to Runrig tribute band Beat the Drum: ‘DÌLEAB RUNRIG’

In 2018, Runrig, one of Scotland’s most beloved bands called time on a career spanning five decades. But while Runrig may have said their goodbyes, their fans – the Riggies – weren’t ready to say goodbye to Runrig.

With the band’s blessing, tribute group, Beat the Drum – The Runrig Experience, hit the road in 2024 with over 50 tour dates across the UK, Germany and Denmark.

Made up of a range of generations from across the UK, Richie Muir from South Queensferry Edinburgh, Duncan MacDonald, a Skye native, alongside his son Scott from Glasgow, Jason Laing from Stornoway and Ben Marshall from Nottingham, formed the band during the COVID lockdown, creating a sound that celebrated their Celtic rock idols.

In a new two-part BBC ALBA documentary, Beat the Drum: Dìleab Runrig airing over Easter weekend on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 April, we will join the Riggies and get an “access all areas” pass to the tour road trip.

The documentary follows the highs and lows of tour life, as Beat the Drum – The Runrig Experience embark on their most ambitious tour to date. In just four short years, Beat the Drum have grown from a little-known tribute band, to selling out tours throughout the UK and Europe. Viewers can watch as the band battle technical issues, traffic jams and beach-based breakdowns to ensure they put on a show worthy of their heroes.

As they approach their biggest gig, a night at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall with a capacity of two and half thousand, have they bitten off more than they can chew?

For bassist Duncan, who turned sixty last year, life as a touring musician has been fantastically exciting, and getting to share that with his son, Scott, has made it all the more special.

Duncan MacDoanld, Beat the Drum – The Runrig Experience, said: “Life has a funny way. If you had told me when I was in my 20s I’d be playing Runrig’s music and touring I’d have laughed out loud.

“But as a 60-year-old I can’t think of anything better. To get the chance to play one of the biggest venues in Scotland, with my son Scott on drums, is a dream I didn’t know I had! But it has come true.”

Calum MacDonald, founding member of Runrig, said: “Our fans are wonderful, and like a big family, but when Runrig stopped, the fans didn’t. Now they have concerts to be a part of and that just brings us so much happiness.”

Beat the Drum – The Runrig Experience are a band by fans for fans, and throughout the tour the documentary introduces the Riggies who followed the group across the world, embracing Gaelic culture and language, and creating friendships for life. This is a story of deep-rooted bonds and the songs that inspired them.

Filmed and produced by BEEZR, Beat the Drum: Dìleab Runrig premieres on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayeron Saturday 19 April at 9pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles), with part two airing on Sunday 20 April at 9pm. Both episodes will be available to watch on demand on iPlayer on Saturday 19 April.

Watch live or on demand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002b9gt

Man convicted of 2023 murder of teenager in Edinburgh

A 21-year-old man has been convicted of the murder of Lewis McCartney in Edinburgh.

The 18-year-old was found with serious injuries on Viewcraig Street around 3.45am on Sunday, 12 February, 2023. Lewis was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he died a short time later.

Bailey Dowling was found guilty of murder at the High Court in Edinburgh today (Thursday, 17 April, 2025). He will be sentenced at a later date.

Barrhead Travel reveals top destinations for Edinburgh holidaymakers this Easter

Following a record start to the year, leading travel agent shares destinations that have topped the must-visit lists for customers this Easter

 Barrhead Travel has revealed sunshine is top of the priority list this spring for British holidaymakers, with Tenerife, Mallorca and Turkey emerging amongst the most popular destinations this Easter.

With the recent spell of fair weather, customers have caught the bug for sunshine, with Easter departures set to exceed their record-breaking holiday period in 2024.

Following the agency’s successful start to the year, cruising has also proven a very popular option, thanks to the value-for-money on offer as well as the convenience of many regional departures.

According to Barrhead Travel sales data, the top selling destinations for travel across the Easter period in Scotland have included:

Tenerife
Mallorca
Lanzarote
Antalya
Alicante

All-inclusive holidays remain the number one choice for holidaymakers, while cruise is also amongst the top picks. Most customers are opting to maximise the holiday period with seven nights listed as the top duration. However, the group have reported an increase in three and four night breaks this season with many people opting for long weekend getaways.

The ongoing demand mirrors Barclays latest consumer research which highlights that spend with travel agents was up 13.1 percent in March while holidays were cited as a “top priority purchase.”

Jacqueline Dobson, President of Barrhead Travel said: “We can see the appetite for holidays in 2025 shows no sign of slowing down, with travel across the Easter period set to exceed our departures from last season.

“We’ve seen an increase in late bookings this Easter which suggests that there’s high levels of confidence amongst customers to add in extra holiday breaks. The pattern we’re seeing is that people have secured their main annual holiday further ahead than usual and are then assessing their budgets periodically to see what other trips they feel they can plan in.

“We know how important holidays are to our customers this year and we’ve been working hard to make sure that we can deliver the very best value for money. Working with a trusted travel agent, like our team at Barrhead Travel, can help make your budget go further.

“With Easter wrapping up this weekend, we’re now looking ahead to a busy May Bank Holiday period and summer season.”

Barrhead Travel’s retail network is open seven days a week until late as well as offering evening support through their online service, call centres and social media channels.

Find your nearest Barrhead Travel store by visiting:

https://www.barrheadtravel.co.uk/storelocator  

Pink Floyd at St Mary’s Cathedral!

An Evening of Pink Floyd with String & Brass Ensemble at St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh – ON SALE NOW!

Pink Floyd, in a cathedral, with a full live band, live vocalists, accompanied by the Mike Nowland string & brass ensemble…!

Let Me In Presents are back, following their acclaimed, sell-out UK Cathedral Tour of ‘An Evening of Radiohead’ – performing the music of Pink Floyd across the country, with the same team, and some special guests added, to capture the spectacle and epic scale of Pink Floyd’s timeless catalogue.

Date: Saturday 1 November 2025

“Time”: 7.30pm

Tickets are selling very fast, so get yours now!

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/an-evening-of-pink-floyd…

#aneveningofradiohead

Explore the world heritage on your doorstep with trove.scot

This World Heritage Day, rediscover the Forth Bridge with HES’s new digital portal

In celebration of World Heritage Day on 18 April, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is highlighting how its new platform trove.scot can make it easy and exciting to discover more about the unique World Heritage site of the Forth Bridge.

The Forth Bridge was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2015. It is one of the world’s greatest cantilever trussed bridges, and was innovative in both style, materials and scale when it was first built. Even today, the distinctive industrial silhouette of the Forth Bridge is iconic across the world.

On trove.scot, visitors can explore archive records and images to walk through the immense process of building the bridge through photographs and artwork, and digitally get into the nooks and crannies that are inaccessible in person.

James Bruhn, Head of World Heritage and Heritage Policy at HES, said: “World Heritage Sites are globally important and part of everyone’s heritage, and we are excited to make them more digitally accessible than ever.

“With trove.scot, both local residents and visitors from all over the world can learn more about this unique and world-famous site.”

Unlock Scotland’s world heritage anytime, anywhere with trove.scot, the key to Scotland’s past.