One of the most iconic and beloved fantasy trilogies of all time, The Lord of The Rings, is returning to the big screen at Vue venues in Edinburgh – marking a quarter of a century since audiences fell in love with the epic adventures of Frodo and the fellowship.
Based on the legendary book series by J.R.R. Tolkien, the extended editions of this epic saga will be shown at Vue, giving fans the chance to experience the trilogy as it was meant to be seen.
Directed by Peter Jackson, the trilogy received a combined total of 30 Academy Award nominations and won 17 Oscars upon its original release, cementing its place as one of the most celebrated achievements in cinematic history.
Set in the realm of Middle-earth, Frodo Baggins leads a group of hobbits, who find themselves tasked with a quest to destroy the One Ring, a perilous mission that could determine the fate of the world and stop the dark forces of Mordor, led by the Dark Lord Sauron.
Joined by the wizard Gandalf, the human ranger Aragorn and other unforgettable characters such as Legolas and Gimli, audiences are invited to follow this motley crew across treacherous terrain and epic cinematic battles in one of cinema’s most beloved and ambitious stories.
Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “The Lord of the Rings trilogy is simply made to be seen on the big screen so, to mark 25 years since its release, we’re thrilled to return to Middle-Earth at Vue.
“Whether you’ve simply walked to Mordor many times before or are venturing into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien for the first time, we’re excited to welcome audiences to enjoy this iconic trilogy at Vue.”
Around 6.50pm last night – Tuesday, 30 December, 2025 – Police were made aware of disorder in the Albion Road area of Edinburgh ahead of the Hibernian v Aberdeen match.
Officers attended and a 26-year-old man was arrested for behaving in a threatening and abusive manner. He will appear at court at a later date.
An investigation is under way to identify further individuals involved in the disturbance.
Anyone with any information, or concerns, can approach officers or call 101 quoting incident number 1861 of Tuesday, 30 December, 2025.
A 20-year-old man was also arrested during the match in connection with a pitch invasion at the Edinburgh derby on Saturday, 27 December, 2025.
He was charged and will appear in court at a later date.
A 24-year-old man has been convicted of wilful fireraising in Edinburgh.
Logan Carlin pleaded guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh today, Tuesday, 23 December, 2025.
The incidents took place on Thursday, 6 March, 2025 and Sunday, 16 March, 2025 in Albert Street and Milton Road East.
Carlin was arrested and charged in connection with wilful fireraising and reset of a stolen vehicle.
He is due to be sentenced at a later date.
Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry, Specialist Crime Division, said: “While this was established as a targeted attack, we understand that it was a concerning incident for the local community.
“I want to make it clear to those intent on being involved in serious criminality that we will not give up and you will be brought to justice.
“This conviction is testament to the hard work and dedication by detectives, specialist officers and partners across the country and highlights our commitment to the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce and its national strategy.”
Operation Portaledge is the ongoing investigation into violent incidents in the East and West of the country.
Aldi Scotland’s much loved Supermarket Sweep challenge recently returned to Edinburgh with a festive twist, and one lucky local winner spread some Christmas cheer by raising £606.18 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) while bagging the same amount in Aldi favourites for himself.
Aldi’s popular Supermarket Sweep, inspired by the legendary gameshow, arrived in Edinburgh on Sunday 14 December. Lucky shopper Tom Garrat, who was chosen as the winner of the competition, donned a Santa costume for his five-minute trolley dash for CHAS at the retailer’s Portobello store – where CHAS representatives got into the festive spirit dressed as elves.
As well as taking home a trolley full of goodies, Aldi Scotland matched the cash value of Tom’s haul, donating all proceeds to CHAS to help support over 500 babies, children and young people across Scotland with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025, every penny raised through the initiative has gone directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support.
Aldi Supermarket Sweep winner, Tom Garratt, said:“It was a pleasure to raise over £600 for CHAS with the help of Aldi.
“A special thanks to Sarah from CHAS for being my eyes and ears as I dashed through the aisles filling the trolleys!”
Sarah Dannfald, Senior Community Fundraiser, CHAS, said:“Turning up to Aldi’s Portobello store dressed as Santa and an Elf isn’t something you do every day, but the team there welcomed us like absolute stars.
“Tom’s fantastic effort in the Supermarket Sweep, along with the brilliant support from all the staff, brought so much festive fun and raised a wonderful amount for CHAS.
“Their generosity will help bring comfort, care and Christmas magic to the children and families we support all year round. We can’t thank them enough for getting behind us with such spirit and good humour!”
Sandy Mitchell, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “Our first-ever festive edition of Supermarket Sweep has been such a good way to celebrate the season and spread some Christmas cheer, while also finishing a fantastic year of fundraising on a high. Congratulations to Tom, who raised an incredible £606.18 for CHAS while grabbing a bundle of Aldi favourites for himself.
“CHAS is an incredible organisation that does invaluable work for families across Scotland.
“We’re proud to support them and help raise as much as possible so they can continue to provide vital hospice care for children with life-shortening conditions, and unwavering support to families during the most difficult moments imaginable.”
Stores across the country have been overwhelmed by the generosity of customers who donated at the Tesco Winter Food Collection.
An incredible 1.48 million meals’ worth of long-life food items were donated to the collection between 24 November and 29 November across the retailer’s large and Express stores, including 41,804 in and around Edinburgh.
More than 2,000 volunteers helped store colleagues throughout the collection where every item donated provides much-needed support for food redistribution charities FareShare and Trussell in the run up to Christmas.
In addition, more than £300,000 was donated to both charities thanks to customers rounding up their bill at the till to the nearest pound and online donations throughout the collection period. When combined with Tesco’s financial support of the charities, it equates to more than £2m in funding in 2025.
Trussell research shows over 14 million people in the UK are now facing hunger, including 3.8 million children. They predict that their community of foodbanks will need to give out an emergency food parcel every ten seconds this winter to meet the need.
FareShare continues to see high levels of need and say that more than a third of its partners now primarily serve families with children, or services for children. Research carried out by the charity’s network partner, The Felix Project, recently found that almost a quarter of UK working parents have had to turn to a food support service in the last year.
Donations to Trussell help food banks to provide emergency food parcels to people who cannot afford the essentials, while donations to FareShare support thousands of frontline local charities in communities across the country.
This winter will see heightened levels of demand for both charities’ services with the Christmas holidays being a particularly difficult time for families due to the increased costs that occur at this time of year.
Tesco UK CEO Ashwin Prasad said: “As ever, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Tesco customers who have shown how much they value the hard work of our partners Trussell and FareShare in their local communities.
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated and made this such a special event in stores across the UK. Every single item donated really helps to make a huge impact in communities across the UK supported by Trussell and FareShare.”
FareShare Chief Executive, Kris Gibbon-Walsh, said: “Once again, the generosity of Tesco customers at the Winter Food Collection has been humbling. The long-life items collected will go to 8,000 charities across the UK, helping to support people during the winter months.
At a time when many people are forced to choose between keeping warm and eating, demand for these local charities’ services is higher than ever. The food that we can provide thanks to the Winter Food Collection makes a real difference, helping to bring people together, strengthen communities and support those in need.
“Thank you to every single person that donated an item of food, topped up their shopping bill or generously gave their time to volunteer in store. Your support will help provide a meal for someone facing hardship this winter, enable them to connect with other vital services, and make a positive difference. Thank you.”
Matthew van Duyvenbode, co-chief executive of Trussell, said: “We are so grateful to Tesco for supporting our community of food banks through the coldest season by organising the annual Winter Food Collection.
“Crucially, it’s thanks to you – Tesco customers – who donate food and money so generously. By doing this, you’re ensuring food banks can continue to help people in your local community who are facing hunger and hardship. Thank you for your kindness. When we all play our part, we can end hunger for good.”
With both charities requiring ongoing support, Tesco shoppers can continue to donate food at permanent collection points at every Tesco store in the UK or make a donation after their online shop until the end of February.
Tracy Gilbert, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, raised concerns in Parliament on Thursday about the way Rockstar Games has benefited from substantial UK tax relief while facing allegations about its treatment of staff.
The company behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise has reportedly claimed more than £70 million through the UK Government’s Video Games Tax Relief scheme, a policy designed to support the games industry by significantly reducing companies’ tax bills.
Gilbert’s intervention follows allegations from constituents that workers at Rockstar were dismissed after exercising their legal right to organise in the workplace.
The claims raise serious questions about whether companies receiving large-scale tax breaks from the UK Government are meeting basic expectations around fair treatment and workplace rights.
Several constituents have contacted Gilbert, believing they were unfairly dismissed by Rockstar after engaging in lawful workplace organising activity. She has since met with the company alongside fellow Edinburgh MPs Chris Murray and Scott Arthur, and has committed to continuing her support for the affected workers.
Speaking after raising the issue, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “When a company benefits from tens of millions of pounds in government-backed tax relief, what many would describe as Grand Theft Tax, it is reasonable to expect that it upholds basic standards of fairness and respects workers’ rights.
“I have been contacted by constituents who believe they were dismissed for exercising their legal right to organise at work. These are serious allegations, and it is right that they are properly scrutinised, particularly when a company is receiving such substantial tax advantages.”
Ms Gilbert asked Rt Hon Sir Alan Campbell MP, Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons, whether he shared her concerns about the reported dismissals and that the issue should be raised with the Chancellor, given the scale of tax relief Rockstar Games has received through the Video Games Tax Relief scheme.
She was reassured that ministers were looking into the matter and that he would be happy to arrange a meeting with ministers regarding the tax relief.
A man has been jailed for a serious assault in Leith. Damien May, 58, was sentenced to two years and seven months in prison at the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday n Wednesday , 17 December 2025.
He previously pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow on Thursday, 20 November.
The incident happened around 2pm on Monday, 20th May 2024, outside a premises on North Junction Street. A 56-year-old man was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment to serious injuries.
Detective Constable Calum Turnbull, of Edinburgh CID, said: “This was a serious and violent assault which resulted in significant injuries that will have a long-term and lasting impact on the victim’s life.
“Violent behaviour such as this is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We will continue to thoroughly investigate incidents like this and take robust action against those involved.”
Film fans in Edinburgh can now enjoy the latest releases in even greater clarity and colour with the arrival of Laser by Barco projection technology at Vue Edinburgh Omni.
Every screen at the venue, which is located within the Edinburgh Omni Centre, is equipped with the cutting-edge upgrade, bringing sharper images, deeper contrast, and a more vibrant cinematic experience than ever before.
Vue’s investment in Laser by Barco technology forms part of its ongoing commitment to delivering the ultimate big screen experience and is the next generation in projection technology.
Unlike standard projection, Laser by Barco provides consistent picture quality from edge to edge, resulting in a more immersive and premium big-screen experience.
Film fans in and around Edinburgh can enjoy the sharpest image in each of Vue Edinburgh Omni’s 12 screens, with some hotly anticipated releases set to take place before the end of the year, including Avatar: Fire and Ash.
Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce Laser by Barco technology to our venue. The difference in picture quality is incredible, and we cannot wait for everyone to experience it.
“The upgrade is part of our continued investment in ensuring we offer the best big screen experience and customers can immerse themselves in the film.”
Tickets for Vue Edinburgh Omni can be booked online at:
Edinburgh Leisure is celebrating one of its own as Josh Ward, Swim Teacher at its iconic Leith Victoria Swim Centre, scooped the Rising Star Award at the recent Scottish Leisure Network Group Awards.
The Scottish Leisure Network Group (SLNG) is a not-for-profit organisation for leisure and sport providers in Scotland. Founded in 2003, its purpose is to help members, such as local authority leisure trusts and university sports departments, share best practices, provide industry guidance, and develop benchmarking processes.
Josh’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. Starting out on Edinburgh Leisure’s Positive Destinations programme – an employability initiative supporting young people from deprived areas – Josh faced significant challenges. Surrounded by negative influences and lacking financial support, his future could have taken a very different path.
Instead, Josh embraced the programme, earned his lifeguard qualification, and began his career as a Leisure Attendant.
Recognising the need to create a positive environment for himself, Josh made the brave decision to transfer to a venue further afield, away from peer pressure. That move marked a turning point.
With encouragement from his manager, Josh trained as a Swim Teacher, gaining his Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification. Two years on, he’s not only thriving but inspiring others.
“Josh is a fantastic role model for our team and for the young people who come through our programmes,” said Louise Bathgate, Manager at Leith Victoria, who nominated him for the award.
“His journey shows what’s possible when someone is given the right support and opportunities. He’s passionate, committed, and always goes the extra mile for his swimmers and colleagues.
“Josh’s approach to swim teaching reflects the values of our organisation, creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-quality experiences for all his participants. He is known for building strong relationships with children and adapting his teaching style to meet individual needs.
“He has played a key role in supporting both participants and less experienced staff, particularly through our Care-Experienced and Active Communities programmes. His patience and ability to connect with others make him a trusted and respected member within his team.”
One customer commented said “Josh is doing a great job running the Skills & Development and Master’s swim classes. He’s always friendly, encouraging, and brings great sets for us to swim. His feedback on technique has significantly improved my swim times.”
Josh’s success comes as sportscotland celebrates Role Models in Sport this December, highlighting individuals who inspire others to get active and achieve their potential. Josh embodies that spirit – from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a trusted and respected Swim Teacher who makes a real difference in his community, said Jack Martin, Coaching Workforce Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.
Edinburgh Leisure offers a range of career pathways, from entry-level roles to specialist coaching and teaching positions. Josh’s story is a powerful reminder that a career in leisure isn’t just a job – it can be life-changing.
Find out more about careers with Edinburgh Leisure at:
There’s plenty for fans of South Asian cinema to enjoy at Vue Edinburgh Ocean this month, with a number of titles heading to the big screen.
Kicking things off on 5 December is Hindi film Dhurandhar, a star-studded saga inspired by incredible true events. From director and writer Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is set in the gritty criminal vein of the underworld and features gripping action, Shakespearean betrayals, and espionage – all set to the backdrop of Indian patriotism.
On Boxing Day, film fans can enjoy some light-hearted watching Hindi romantic comedy Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, which tells the story of two people fall in love while finding themselves. However, when family pressures challenge their relationship, they reluctantly part – promising each other they’ll meet again.
For those seeking something a bit more supernatural on Boxing Day, Malayalam horror comedy film Sarvam Maya tells the story of a movie fanatic, who is the son of a famous musical instrument maker, and their decision to become a musician themselves after delivering an instrument to a famous player.
For fans of Telugu cinema, fantasy epic Akhanda 2 can be viewed from 5 December. Following the massive success of the first film, Akhanda 2 reunites audiences with another heartwarming journey explores the connection the natural world, and spiritual faith.
Meanwhile, fans of action and comedy can enjoy the Malayalam-language film Bha Bha Ba from 19 December. Directed by Dhanajay Shankar, this story follows a fraudulent astrologer who gains the magic ability to travel through time.
Other South Asian films heading to the big screen this December includes the Tamil language film L.I.K. on 19 December and Malayalam film Vrusshabha on 26 December.
Humberto Michelacci, Screen Content Manager (International Film) at Vue, said: “At Vue we pride ourselves on celebrating cinema from across the globe and we couldn’t be happier to be showing some of the most exciting South Asian films this December.We would encourage film lovers from all cultures to check out this fantastic selection of films.”
South Asian screenings at Vue
–Dhurandhar (Hindi) – 5 December
–Akhanda 2 (Telugu) – 5 December
–Bha Bha Ba (Malayalam) – 19 December
–L.I.K. (Tamil) – 19 December
–Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri (Hindi) – 26 December
