Category: North Edinburgh News

Inaugural Pride of Scotland Award winners announced

·         Rugby Icon Doddie Weir OBE receives People’s Award for his extraordinary fund-raising efforts for people with Motor Neurone Disease

·         Outstanding Contribution Award for Dame Laura Lee, founder of Maggie’s Centres, a shelter for cancer patients both in Scotland and internationally

·         11-year-old schoolboy wins Child of Courage Award after pulling his grandad from a fast-flowing river, after he suffered a bleed on the brain during a fishing trip

·         The People of Bute awarded TSB Community Heroes Award for opening their doors and hearts to families fleeing the war in Syria

The inaugural Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards 2020, in partnership with TSB, is set to air on STV and the STV Player this New Years Eve at 10.45pm.

The Awards, which celebrate ordinary people doing extraordinary things, will see 11 awe-inspiring Scots being recognised for their outstanding achievements, as we take an uplifting and celebratory journey into 2021.

The driving force behind a nationwide food bank launched in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, a teen fundraiser who has raised more than £420,000 since the age of five, and the entire community of the Isle of Bute are among the unsung heroes that will be celebrated during the 90-minute show, hosted by Kirsty Gallacher and Elaine C. Smith at the University of Glasgow’s iconic Cloisters.

After a year of extraordinary challenges, uncertainty and change, it has been more important than ever to lift the spirits of the nation and acknowledge those individuals and groups who have gone above and beyond for others. Filled with awe-inspiring winners’ stories and some emotional celebrity surprises, the inaugural Pride of Scotland Awards is not to be missed.

Over 50 of Scotland and the UK’s biggest celebrities will come together on 31st December to honour the 11 extraordinary winners and first ever recipients of the Pride of Scotland trophies.

Public figures and celebrities include HRH Duchess of Cornwall, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Sir Andy Murray, Sir Rod Stewart and Lady Penny Lancaster, Gordon Ramsay, Rita Ora, Michael McIntyre, Jermaine Defoe, Stephen Gerrard, Sharleen Spiteri, The Vamps, Gregor Townsend, Ally McCoist, Katherine Jenkins and Lorraine Kelly.

Magical moments that are sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of viewers across Scotland and the UK include: 

·         12 year old schoolgirl Katie Pake from Glenrothes, becoming overwhelmed with emotion when she was surprised with her award by one of her favourite artists and Texas lead singer, Sharleen Spiteri, during an exclusive tour of Abbey Road Studios.

·         A touching encounter between Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil and Shetland coastguard volunteer Jamie Newlands who, whilst out on his very first major rescue operation, descended a 130ft sea cliff in storm-force winds to rescue a teenage boy from the incoming tide.

·         HRH The Duchess of Cornwall surprising Peterhead-born Dame Laura Lee – the founder and chief executive of the international network of Maggie’s Centres – with the Outstanding Contribution. 

Maggie’s Centres help cancer sufferers with everything from dealing with the effects of treatment to advice on money worries, and they were the brainchild of one of nurse Laura’s former patients, Maggie Jencks. After Maggie died in 1995, Laura set out to make her vision a reality – and there are now more than 30 Maggie’s Centres in operation across the globe.

Other winners include a 77 year old from Glasgow recognised for his 40 years’ service as leader of the Glasgow Humane Society – the oldest continuing lifeboat service in the world; an 11-year-old from East Ayrshire who rescued his grandfather from a remote stretch of the River Irvine after he suffered a stroke during a fishing trip; a HGV driver who saved a mum and three children from drowning after they were swept out to sea during a trip to a Mallaig beach; a former young carer who, after becoming homeless and narrowly avoiding a jail sentence, has turned his life around and now advises the Scottish Government on issues such as mental health and poverty; and Scottish rugby icon Doddie Weir OBE, who is fighting motor neurone disease and set up a charity in 2017 to raise funds for vital research.

Seeing us into 2021 will be a fireworks spectacular and exclusive performance by pop band McFly.

There will also be a stunning performance by Tom Walker and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, as well as a special star-studded rendition of Auld Lang Syne led by Scottish icon Sir Billy Connolly and featuring famous faces including Annie Lennox, Alan Cumming, Jodie Whittaker, JJ Chalmers, Edith Bowman, Billy Boyd, Andrew Robertson and Karen Gillan.

The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards, in partnership with TSB, will be broadcast on STV on 31 December at 10.45pm.

COMPLETE LIST of WINNERS:

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT | Dame Laura Lee, 55, London

Driving force behind Maggie’s, the ground-breaking Scottish charity that is transforming cancer care across the globe.

When 17-year-old Laura Lee left home in Peterhead to train as a nurse, she wanted to work with cancer patients so she could offer them help and support over a sustained period. Today,37 years later, Laura’s compassionate, caring ethos forms the DNA of the world-leading cancer charity that she brought to life on the grounds of her Edinburgh hospital.

Maggie’s Centres help cancer sufferers with everything from emotional support and dealing with the effects of treatment to advice on money worries. The original idea came from one of Laura’s patients, Maggie Jencks. It was her dream to provide a homely environment for patients, unlike the windowless corridor where she had been left to process the news her breast cancer was terminal.

She would often talk about her vision with Laura. The two became close friends and worked on the initial plans together, pouring over designs at Maggie’s hospital bedside. After Maggie died in 1995, Laura, along with Maggie’s husband Charles, made sure that vision became a reality.

The following year the first Maggie’s Centre was opened in Edinburgh, in a beautiful new building designed by leading architect Richard Murphy. Since then, as CEO of the charity, Laura, 54, has overseen the opening of 24 centres across the UK and internationally, all designed by leading and award-winning architects, with 280,000 visitors every year.

PEOPLE’S AWARD | Doddie Weir OBE, 50, Blainslie

Rugby hero fighting motor neurone disease who launched charity to help fellow sufferers and raise funds for vital research. 

After a career inspiring the nation with his leadership on the rugby pitch, Doddie is now inspiring us all with his courage and dignity in the face of a devastating illness. 

Doddie earned 61 caps for Scotland and toured with the British and Irish Lions. With his big personality, and trademark blue and yellow tartan suit, he was always the life of the party. 

In 2017 Doddie revealed he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease. The devastating condition has no cure and a life expectancy of one to five years following diagnosis. In Doddie’s case, doctors told him he would be in a wheelchair within 12 months. 

Determined to help others facing the same plight, Doddie and close friends and supporters, launched My Name’5 Doddie Foundation to help fund research into MND and support fellow sufferers of this devastating disease. To date the Charity has committed £5.8 million to MND Research.

It has invested in the Glasgow-based charity, Funding Neuro, and committed £250,000 to the drug repurposing work led by Professor Siddarthan Chandran at the University of Edinburgh. An additional £780,000 is being invested in supporting the pioneering clinical trial, MND-SMART.

In addition, the charity has given almost £1million to MND Scotland and MND Association to administer as grants on their behalf. This money has helped hundreds of people living with MND. The father of three continues to raise awareness and advocate on behalf of people living with motor neuron disease.

Meanwhile, the inspirational sportsman who never ducked a challenge on the pitch, continues to defy the odds. While he has lost power in his hands, arms and neck, he is still going to his boys’ rugby matches and leading his charity from the front.

YOUNG FUNDRAISER OF THE YEAR | Jenny Cook, 17, East Kilbride

Teenager with a debilitating condition has spent more than a decade raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to help others like her.

Jenny suffers from ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease. When she was six, surgeons removed her large intestine, meaning she had to adjust to life with a colostomy bag. In 2010, she was able to have a j-pouch created from her small intestine, meaning her colostomy bag could be removed.

Despite her own health issues, Jenny dedicates her free time to fundraising for the Glasgow Children’s Hospital and the Catherine McEwan Foundation, which supports people living with IBD. 

She held her first event when she was five – a cheese and wine night at her primary school, which raised £5,000. Twelve years later, her total from events including an annual tea party stands at £420,000. 

Jenny also speaks at many Glasgow Hospital fundraising events, as well as offices and schools to create awareness of her condition. With a commitment to helping other children manage the disease, she has also volunteered as a hospital buddy, meeting and supporting other young patients.

Now a Young Ambassador for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, Jenny, 17 organises fundraising events all year round from a customised office in her back garden.

She also found the time to achieve five A-grades in her Highers.

STV CHILDREN’S APPEAL CHILD OF COURAGE | Katie Pake, 12, Glenrothes

Schoolgirl on a mission to help fellow child cancer patients has raised thousands with her inspirational campaigning.

Keen swimmer Katie’s parents took her to the GP when she complained a sore knee was affecting her performance in the pool. Tests revealed she was suffering from osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Intensive chemotherapy failed to eradicate the tumour and it was then discovered that the disease had spread to her thigh and spine. Doctors told her parents that she had a 20% chance of survival.

They tried a new type of chemo, which thankfully eradicated the cancer in her thigh and spine, but it did not work on the tumour on her leg. Their only option was to amputate the limb, in an eight-hour operation two days before her 10th birthday.

Before the life-saving operation, Katie wrote “Please recycle” on her leg, in the hope the cancer tissue could be used in research.

Since the amputation, Katie has made it her mission to increase awareness of childhood cancer and raise money. She has raised thousands of pounds and is an ambassador for the children’s cancer charity Love Oliver.

Katie, who has now been given the all clear, takes off her artificial leg to swim and has won gold medals at the junior and senior Scottish Disability Sport National Swimming Championships. As well as training four times a week in the pool, she plays football and is a wheelchair racer.

CHILD OF COURAGE | Greg Galloway, 11, Galston

Schoolboy who pulled his grandad from a fast-flowing river after he suffered a bleed on the brain during a fishing trip.

It was Greg’s first fishing trip with his grandad, and the youngster had just caught his first salmon from a remote stretch of the River Irvine. But as his grandad John Howe, 61, was helping him take it off the hook, he suffered a stroke. He lost feeling in his left side and fell into the water. 

It was getting dark and the water was flowing fast, but Greg, then nine, waded in and managed to drag him out of the water and on to the bank. He then used John’s phone to call his mum, Jennifer. 

Somehow Greg managed to shift his papa out of the water and onto the embankment, where he kept him awake and constantly reassured him that help was coming. Greg then directed Jennifer over two fields to the exact spot where they were fishing so she could find them. Jennifer then contacted the emergency services and John was taken to Crosshouse Hospital, where he has since made a full recovery.

EMERGENCY SERVICES | Jamie Newlands, 36, Shetland

Coastguard volunteer who climbed down a cliff in storm force winds to save a stranded teenager in a race against rising tide.

Two teenagers had got into difficulty after climbing down a 130ft cliff to the sea in Fethaland on the north tip of Shetland. While one of the young men had managed to climb back up, the other was stuck at the bottom.

By the time Coastguard were called in, he had already been there for two hours. It was dark, the tide was rising and the weather was deteriorating.

A rescue helicopter was first to arrive but could not fly close enough to the cliff face in turbulent conditions to attempt a rescue. The helicopter and the Aith Lifeboat then used searchlights to illuminate the scene, so that a rope rescue team could set up their equipment.

Rope technician Jamie Newlands, 37, a volunteer on his first major rescue operation, descended the cliff in storm force winds, rain and heavy squalls to pull the teenager to safety from the incoming tide, taking him back to the top where he could be winched aboard the helicopter and taken to hospital where he recovered fully from hypothermia.

OUTSTANDING BRAVERY | John Haughie, 32, Tullichewan

HGV driver and army reservist for 7 Scots, who rescued mum and three children from drowning after they were swept out to sea during a family day at the beach.

John was relaxing on the sand in Arisaig, near Fort William, when he heard his partner Cheryl and daughter Kiera screaming and cries for help.

Ben McCallie, 14, his sister Poppy, nine, and eight-year-old Lewis McCorkindale were playing in the sea, but a strong undercurrent had pulled them out into deeper water. Katrina McCallie, mum of Poppy and Ben, and sister to Lewis, had run into the sea to help them, despite not being able to swim.

She had not realised how sharply the seabed dropped away and was quickly in trouble herself. That was when John, 32, from Alexandria, ran into the water and dived under the surface to grab the three drowning children and Katrina and dragged all four of them to safety.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION | George Parsonage, 77, Glasgow

Rescued more than 1,500 people from a treacherous stretch of water during a lifesaving career spanning four decades.

George, 77, spent 40 years pulling people from the murky waters of the River Clyde as leader of the Glasgow Humane Society, the oldest continuing lifeboat service in the world. 

In that time, he has used his motorboat to rescue more than 1,500 people, including the woman who became his wife. He was even called into action on his last day on duty before retirement.

George began assisting his father with river rescues in the 1950s when he was still a teenager. After his father died in 1979, George took over from him as chief officer at Glasgow Humane Society. 

George says the society is a family unit. His wife Stephanie, and sons Benjamin, and Christopher, are also involved. George and Stephanie met when Stephanie, an international rower who competed for Scotland, capsized while training. George went to the rescue and for his efforts won her heart.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION | Charandeep Singh, 31, Glasgow

The driving force behind The Sikh Food Bank, a multi-faith team of volunteers who delivered more than 80,000 meals to families over lockdown.

Launched in March in direct response to the pandemic by the Sikhs in Scotland charity, the Sikh Food Bank was set up to help the most vulnerable across all sections of the community, including those self-isolating, families struggling to make ends meet, as well as the elderly or homeless.

Volunteers deliver groceries to people unable to go to the shops themselves, as well as food parcels and hot meals. They also run a check-in phone service, available in English, Panjabi, Hindi and Urdu, to help combat loneliness and isolation. 

Supported by a 50-strong team of volunteers, Charandeep led the delivery of more than 100,000 meals and food parcels during lockdown across Glasgow as well as in Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen. 

In the run-up to the return to school they also provided packs to help children in need with supplies and resources. 

TSB COMMUNITY HERO | Angela Callaghan and the People of Bute

At the height of the migrant crisis, Angela and her community threw open their doors and their hearts to families fleeing the war in Syria.

In 2015, 24 Syrian families arrived on the Isle of Bute as part of the UK’s pledge to welcome 20,000 people fleeing the war-torn country.

At a time when not everyone in Britain was open to new arrivals, Angela Callaghan was among those who helped the families get settled and used to their new island life. She led the island’s reception committee and also helped organise donations of everything from shoes and blankets to spices and chickpeas to make the newcomers feel welcome. 

Angela also repurposed the food bank she runs on Bute, one of Scotland’s most deprived areas, to help the new residents. Several of the young Syrians later helped Angela with her drive at Christmas to hand out gifts and food parcels to other under-privileged families. 

Five years on, 17 families remain, putting down roots including some who have started their own businesses including a hairdresser, Syrian take-away and bakery. They learned English and the children are now a part of the local schools.

THE PRINCE’S TRUST YOUNG ACHIEVER | Reece Hayes, 24, Glasgow

After a traumatic childhood and struggling with his mental health, Reece now helps to inform others on issues such as poverty, mental health and violent crime. 

Reece had a traumatic childhood as a young carer and as he struggled to cope, he became angry, suicidal, and picked fights with anyone he could. Caring for his mum since he was 11, life was often very manic and difficult to deal with, due to the difficulties around her poor mental health.

Realising that living at home was only exacerbating the problem, Reece moved out and spent five months in a homeless unit before securing his own tenancy. Yet despite this change in living situation, he still found it difficult to cope.

After narrowly missing a jail sentence, Reece got a mental health assessment, was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, given medication and support from a counsellor, and referred to The Prince’s Trust. From there, Reece secured an interview for Get into Retail with Tesco, a Prince’s Trust programme run in partnership with Tesco, to give unemployed young people the skills and experience they need to find work in the retail sector.

As a Prince’s Trust Young Ambassador, Reece has since shared his story with other third sector organisations, Scottish government committees, MSP’s and delivered a TEDx Talk in Glasgow – sharing his experiences with an audience of over 2,000 – as part of a special Year of Young People 2018 TEDx Youth event.

After completing a college course in Social Services and volunteering at a prison working with male prisoners, he is now in his second year of a Social Work degree at the University of Edinburgh. He has also contributed to think tank focus groups helping to inform the Scottish Government on issues such as mental health, poverty and violent crime.

Furthermore, Reece has worked with a Scottish Government policymaker for six months as part of the Poverty Trust Commission. During this time, he shared his own experiences with the justice system and police to help shape prison reforms and policies for the future. Currently as well as studying, Reece is working part-time as a Mungo Foundation support worker with adults with disabilities.

New app to support Covid vaccine rollout

A new app for health and care home staff carrying out coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations will provide rapid access to relevant patient information and collect data on how many people have received the vaccination.   

The ‘Vaccination Management Tool’ was developed in response to the pandemic and, because it functions on PCs, tablets and iphones, can be used in any setting where the vaccine is being administered.

The tool means vaccinators can immediately see whether it is an individual’s first or second dose and which vaccine has been administered – which will be crucial as more become available.

It also means data can be sent to GP systems and, in time the information collected on the app will help demonstrate how effective each vaccine is by linking with testing data.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “The development of this tool has been a significant collaborative effort involving both clinicians and technical staff and I would like to thank all those involved.

“Clearly we welcome anything which simplifies the process for vaccinators and having this app which can be used wherever they are working will be invaluable, allowing them to quickly access all relevant information on site.”

NHS Education for Scotland Chief Executive Stewart Irvine said: “Delivering a national vaccine programme is a huge undertaking.

“We are trying to make things as easy to use as possible for the staff who have to manage these large numbers of people. That’s in terms of planning their workflows, being able to work flexibly in all kinds of locations, and in providing a steady stream of data to help national planners.

“With tools like these, we are building integrated systems which remove additional burdens from hard-pressed health and care staff – allowing them to do what they do best.”

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde trialled the app for the winter flu programme. Immunisation Programme Manager Scott Hanley  said: “We’re pleased to have helped test and feed-back on the app. Having all the individual’s information in one place and not having to use paper saved so much time for our staff.

“The fact that it is web-based also gives much more flexibility in who can use it – which gives us greater flexibility. And using a mobile tablet will help ensure patients are processed quicker on arrival at sites and will reduce the possibility of queues building up.”

The Vaccine Management Tool was developed by NHS Education for Scotland in partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS Lothian and NHS Fife, NHS National Services Scotland and Public Health Scotland.

It was piloted in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and NHS Lothian to assist with the winter flu vaccination programme and is now being used across Scotland to assist with the COVID-19 vaccination programme.

Edinburgh tenants could cash-in on share of six figure windfall

  • Edinburgh residents could be due share of £210,776
  • The capital city has the largest number of unclaimed deposits – with one worth £3,484
  • More than 1,000 long-standing tenancies in Scotland have an EH postcode
  • One city resident reunited with deposit seven months after moving, thanks to SafeDeposits Scotland

SafeDeposits Scotland has revealed that tenants in Edinburgh could be due a share of £210,776, after failing to claim back deposits at the end of their tenancies.

The Glasgow-based tenancy deposit scheme holds deposits on behalf of landlords and agents in line with government regulations designed to ensure responsible leasing. When a tenancy ends and all parties agree to repayment, the scheme will then release the funds back to the tenant.

Currently, the EH postcode has 700 unclaimed deposits with a combined value of £210,776, with one individual claim worth £3,484 – the highest in Scotland. In total across Scotland, there are 2,513 unclaimed deposits, amounting to £690,383.

One Edinburgh resident, Fraser Hamilton, was recently contacted by SafeDeposits Scotland about his unclaimed deposit after he left his property seven months ago.

Fraser said: “I moved out of my flat near Fountain Park just before lockdown and I completely forgot about the deposit. A part of me just assumed that my landlord would have my details and send it to me when it was ready. Between that and the moving process itself, it just slipped to the back of my mind.

“Obviously, this isn’t how the process works so when I received the call from SafeDeposits Scotland, it was great to hear I’d be getting this money back. It was as simple as sharing my bank details and soon enough, my deposit was back in my account. It’s a great boost, especially just before Christmas, and I’d urge anyone else moving to remember to claim their deposit back.”

In 2020 to date, SafeDeposits Scotland has tracked down 1,093 tenants across the country that had forgotten to claim their deposits back. The not-for-profit organisation has so far managed to return £416,887 from the scheme to these tenants this year.

Research carried out by SafeDeposits Scotland also looked at the quantity of deposits the scheme holds for longer-standing tenancies. The average tenure length for tenancies with deposits protected by SafeDeposits Scotland is just over 2.5 years, however the scheme found over 4,500 active deposit accounts for tenancies of 10 years or more.

There are more than 1,000 long-standing tenancies in the EH postcode area alone, with a deposit for one tenancy in Peebles starting in 1976. While many of these tenancies will still be active, there may be some cases where a tenancy has ended and none of the parties have ever instigated the repayment process.

Mike Smith, operations manager at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “Edinburgh has the largest amount of private rented sector homes in Scotland with 62,000 currently in the market*. And it’s our job to make sure deposits are kept safe, and that both landlords and tenants have access to our dispute resolution service should there be any disagreement once the tenancy ends.

“The private rented sector in Edinburgh accounts for 25% of the capital’s entire housing market, and with the city recently awarded the top UK place for millennials to live, we predict the sector to continue growing as more people, especially young adults, chose to work and live in Edinburgh.

“Our research revealed that 700 people who lived in or around Edinburgh have left their homes without claiming back their deposit. This figure relates to where the landlord has instructed for the deposit to be repaid to the tenant, but the tenant hasn’t completed the process to receive their funds.

“We know moving home can be quite hectic but there’s no reason why a tenant shouldn’t claim what money they’re entitled to when they leave.”

Any surpluses generated by SafeDeposits Scotland are donated to its related charity, the SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust.

Among the organisations to have received funding from the Trust this year is Edinburgh-based Deaf Action which, with a grant of £20,000, is developing a project to support Scottish landlords and tenants affected by hearing loss.

If tenants in Scotland think they have left a deposit with SafeDeposits Scotland unclaimed from a previous tenancy, they should enquire with the scheme on 03333 213 136.

Dalkeith woman receives five-year ban on keeping more than one dog

A Dalkeith woman has been given a five-year ban on keeping more than one dog following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

53-year-old Debbie Ballantine-Brown failed to provide suitable veterinary treatment for her Weimaraner dogs Ember and Buckley between 1 January and 26 February 2019.

A deprivation order was issued for Buckley, allowing him to be rehomed but sadly Ember was put to sleep due to age related health complaints before the case came to trial.

Ballantine-Brown of Ruskin Place, Mayfield, Dalkeith was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on 15 December 2020. The case against her daughter Megan Hollingsworth was not proven.

Scottish SPCA Inspector Fiona Thorburn said, “We received a report from a concerned member of the public regarding dogs in the property shared by Ballantine-Brown and Hollingsworth, two of which were emaciated.

“On arrival at the address I had immediate concerns for the welfare of the dogs, particularly the female Weimaraner, Ember, who was so emaciated her pelvis, vertebrae and ribs were all clearly protruding. When she was examined by a vet she was found to weigh just 20kg, when she should have weighed over 26kg.

“Buckley, the male Weimaraner was also very underweight and his ribs and pelvis were clearly visible. On examination he was found to be 15.7kg when he should have been over 20kg.

“On further investigation it was found that Ember had not seen a vet at all despite her terrible condition and Buckley had not been examined since 22 October 2018.

“The dogs would have been caused to suffer considerably in becoming this thin and a responsible owner should have taken them to a vet much sooner. They gained weight rapidly in our care, with Buckley gaining 49% and Ember gaining 37% in the four weeks following their removal from Ruskin Place”.Image

Buckley after time in our care

Ember after time in our care

“We’re pleased that a ban on keeping multiple dogs has been issued and hope Ballantine-Brown will carefully consider her ability to look after any animal in the future.

“We are glad a deprivation order has been issued for Buckley and he can now find the loving home he deserves after spending 22 months in our care.

“If anyone is concerned about an animal they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

New COVID restrictions: Statement from Chief Constable Iain Livingstone

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said: “I’ve consistently underlined my compassion and concern for everyone affected by the highly restrictive measures which are, unfortunately, absolutely necessary to control the spread of the virus and, ultimately, protect life.

“Following the announcement by the First Minister, there can be no doubt that, other than for the most essential journeys, people should not be travelling between Scotland and other parts of the UK.

“Additionally, travel restrictions between local authority areas within Scotland which came into effect on 20 November, continue to apply and as from 00.01 hours on Boxing Day, 26 December, these increase to a blanket ban for mainland Scotland.

“I remain clear I do not consider it appropriate or proportionate for officers to establish check points or road blocks to simply enforce travel restrictions.

“These restrictions are a preventative measure to halt the progress of Covid and Police Scotland will support this approach with a strong operational profile to deter those who would put others at risk.

“Today, I have authorised the doubling of our operational presence in the Border areas of Scotland.

“These highly visible patrols will be proactively deployed on our road networks to continue our operational activity to ensure drivers and vehicles are in a fit condition to drive. The patrols will also deter anyone who might be considering breaching the coronavirus travel restrictions.

“Our experience throughout the pandemic is that the overwhelming majority of people have demonstrated personal responsibility to do the right thing and I am hugely grateful for that support and co-operation. That must continue and I expect the roads to be quieter than usual over the coming days.

“We have been clear throughout this public health crisis that your police service is here to support our collective effort to combat coronavirus. Though the rules have changed often and, at times, quickly, officers and staff will continue with common sense, empathy and discretion to work with our fellow citizens to help keep everyone safe.

“It is the consent of the public from which policing in Scotland draws its legitimacy. As our communities expect, where officers encounter wilful, persistent or flagrant breaches we will act decisively to enforce the law.”

New Chief Exec for NHS 24

NHS 24 has welcomed the appointment of new Chief Executive Jim Miller, who will join Scotland’s digital health and care service in the spring of 2021.

Mr Miller, is currently Director of Procurement, Commissioning and Facilities at NHS National Services Scotland. He will take up his appointment with NHS 24 on 5th April 2021 and over the coming months will work closely with current CEO Angiolina Foster to ensure an effective transition.

NHS 24 Chairman, Dr Martin Cheyne said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Jim Miller as our new Chief Executive to NHS 24. His appointment follows a detailed interview process which was carried out with a selection of highly experienced candidates for this senior position.

“Jim has worked in management and leadership for over 20 years and prior to joining the NHS, he led technology, data and resilience programmes in the construction and aviation sectors. He leads national organisations delivering a range of services across acute, primary and community based health and social care.

“He has also recently led strategic responses to the COVID 19 pandemic, including the building and equipping of the Louisa Jordan and establishing PPE routes across the system. I am delighted that he will be bringing this experience and talent to NHS 24.” 

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: ”I want to congratulate Jim Miller on his appointment as the new Chief Executive of NHS 24. As the current Director of Procurement, Commissioning and Facilities at NHS National Services Scotland, Mr Miller is respected for his collaborative leadership and professionalism.

“I look forward to welcoming him into post and am confident NHS 24 will continue to deliver a high quality service under his leadership, working in partnership across the health and care system to ensure NHS 24 is fully prepared for future challenges.

“I am pleased Mr Miller will be working closely with current CEO Angiolina Foster in the coming months as he familiarises himself in his new role. I would like to thank Angiolina for the leadership she has provided and the many achievements and improvements delivered during her tenure as Chief Executive over the past four years. I wish her the very best for her retirement.”

Jim Miller said: “Joining NHS 24 is an exciting move and one which I am greatly looking forward to. NHS 24 has delivered exceptional services to the public and to the wider health and care system with its range of telephone and digital services during 2020.

“It has provided critical support to the public and the health system during the COVID pandemic and is helping to transform services through the delivery of 24/7 urgent care.

“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to work with colleagues across NHS 24, and am looking forward to continuing to build on this success and to further develop the role of NHS 24 with colleagues and partners across Scotland.”

Scottish Cup Final: This one’s for Marius – the pressure’s all on Celtic as Hearts aim for cup glory

Celtic and Heart of Midlothian are set to go head-to-head in a second consecutive William Hill Scottish Cup final as the 2019/20 competition draws to a long-awaited close.

In a festive first, the showpiece event at Hampden Park will play out in front of an empty stadium after a long, COVID hit delay.

For both sides, it is an opportunity to bring their supporters some Christmas joy, with the fixture set to be watched through television screens this afternoon.

Celtic are aiming for an historic day in Glasgow following their treble success three years on the bounce. After overcoming Aberdeen last month by two goals to nil, the current holders have a fourth successive treble in their sights.

Heart of Midlothian make their way to Hampden Park from the Capital in search of another Scottish Cup success, which would be their first since 2012. The Edinburgh outfit defeated their city rivals Hibernian in the semi-final in dramatic fashion, edging the encounter 2-1 after extra time.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon is aiming for an eighth victory in a Scottish Cup final, having lifted the trophy four times as a player and three as a manager.

The Hoops boss insists all of his players are in contention for a spot in his starting eleven at the weekend as his side look to build on their upturn in form.  

He said: “As regards team selection, there will be no sentimentality involved in my thinking behind that with my backroom team.

“It is a cup final, a game we want to win. Everyone is in contention and I have to pick the best team for the occasion and to help us win another trophy.”

For Robbie Neilson, Sunday presents an opportunity for the Hearts manager to taste success for the second time in the Scottish Cup, following a memorable day in 2006 as a player.

The Jambo’s boss could make history as the first man to lift the trophy as both a player and manager for the club, but insists the preparations have remained the same for his team.

He said: “It’s a bit surreal. The Scottish Cup final is usually the climax of the season in the sunshine. We’re just glad to be there and looking forward to it. Hopefully, it’s a decent Christmas present for the fans.

“The build-up is still the same whether it’s now or the end of the season. You still have a good week’s training leading into it.”

Neil Lennon said Celtic are on the brink of a monumental achievement if they can win the Scottish Cup final this afternoon but said his side face a difficult game against a very good Hearts side.

Celtic would secure their 12th consecutive trophy if they were to defeat Hearts in Sunday’s final. Victory also see Celtic clinch an incredible quadruple Treble.

Manager Neil Lennon said such an achievement would be remarkable and added it would have a knock-on effect for his side in the upcoming league games.

“We’re looking forward to it,” he said. “It’s a great occasion despite there not being any supporters there but we know the gravity of what lies ahead of us. It’s a remarkable situation to find ourselves in and hopefully one we can make the best of an overcome.

“It’s about the team and what they can achieve. I’m only as good as them. ‘We’re one step away from making history. I think it’s monumental and I don’t think we’ll see it again in our lifetime.

“Psychologically it would be good for us. Twelve trophies in a row would be something you’d never see again and I think it would give the players a massive shot in the arm.”

Today’s final sees Celtic face Hearts for the second consecutive time in the Scottish Cup final. The Hoops claimed a 2-1 win against Hearts in the 2018/19 final but Neil Lennon warned that experience will only make Hearts a more dangerous side this weekend.

“I have to be warry in not talking us up all the time,” said the Celtic boss. “We have a very good team to play against who’ll be highly motivated themselves. We won the last cup final against them and some of their players are still there so I’m sure they’ll want to avenge that.

“They’re packed full of Premiership quality players. We know Craig very well, he was an outstanding servant here and an outstanding goalkeeper. We’re under no illusions coming into this, it’s not a case of us turning up and winning the game.

“Psychologically, Hearts could be in a better place for this final. They had a great win in the semi-final against a very good Hibs team. They showed their metal and that they can compete with some of the best teams in the Premiership. Psychologically, they’re coming into the game with confidence and that’s off the back of winning games.”

Hearts will honour the memory of Marius Zaliukas when the team takes to the field in this Sunday’s Scottish Cup Final against Celtic at Hampden.

Every player will wear the number 26 on the front of their shorts in honour of our legendary Scottish Cup winning captain.

Everyone associated with the club was shocked and saddened to learn of Marius’ passing in October. Adored by the maroon faithful, the Lithuanian defender is a Hearts legend in every sense of the word and the men in maroon look forward to paying tribute to him this afternoon.

Scotland’s ‘COVID Cup Final’ kicks of at 2.15pm. It’s live on BBC Scotland.

Iconic rock frontman Robert Smith becomes Patron of Heart Research UK

Robert Smith, of alternative rock band The Cure, has become a Patron for national charity Heart Research UK.

Robert, who is the only continuous member of the legendary band that he co-founded in 1976, has announced his patronage after supporting the charity’s anonymous heART project for the last two years.

The anonymous heART project sees hundreds of anonymous artworks auctioned on eBay, and Robert’s two pieces have raised over £10,000 for the charity’s pioneering research.

Robert, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last year as a member of The Cure, is working with the charity on a number of exciting projects, due to be announced in 2021.

“I am very proud to be a Patron of Heart Research UK. Their determined focus on pioneering investigation into the understanding and treatment of cardiovascular disease, and their drive to improve the ‘heart health’ of the UK is inspiring,” said Robert.

“More than a quarter of all deaths in the UK are caused by heart and circulatory disease – I have very sadly seen too many friends and family fall victim over the years.

“Continuing support for research into the understanding and treatment of coronary heart disease is absolutely vital – for everyone.”

Kate Bratt-Farrar, Chief Executive of Heart Research UK, said: “We are honoured to have Robert joining us here at Heart Research UK. We are all massive fans of his music, and now, his artwork!

“We have been blown away with his energy and generosity in supporting our campaigns, and we are so excited to continue our partnership with him.

“We know research works, but the seven million people living with cardiovascular disease in the UK need it to work faster. We are dedicated to funding the latest research in to the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.”

Letters: Landmark moment for child safety online

Landmark moment for child safety online as UK Government takes major step towards delivery of an Online Harms Bill

Dear Editor

Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, online grooming crimes in Scotland were more that 30% higher when children were not at school compared with the same months last year.

The NSPCC has been calling for legislation to protect children from grooming, abuse and harmful content online, since 2017. After years of the charity campaigning, on December 15th, the UK Government announced the framework for a future Online Harms Bill that has the potential to provide much greater protection for children when they use the internet.

This is a landmark moment – a major step towards legislation that can make an enforceable legal Duty of Care on tech companies a reality. For too long children have been exposed to disgraceful abuse and harm online.

Social media companies will have a duty to protect young users from child abuse and harmful content online and face fines of up to £18million or 10% of their global turnover if they fail.

But that doesn’t mean that the work we do stops now. For instance, the proposals fall short of ensuring criminal sanctions against named directors whose companies fail to uphold their Duty of Care.

Child protection and children’s voices must remain front and centre of regulatory requirements. We have set out six tests for robust regulation – including action to tackle both online sexual abuse and harmful content and a regulator with the power to investigate and hold tech firms to account with criminal and financial sanctions. Failing to pass any of the six tests will mean that future generations of children will pay with serious avoidable harm and sexual abuse.

We will now be closely scrutinising the proposals against those tests. Above all, legislation must ensure Ofcom has the power and resources to enforce the Duty of Care and be able to identify and then take appropriate action against tech firms that fail.

For more information, search ‘NSPCC six tests’.

Joanna Barrett,

Policy and Public Affairs Manager for NSPCC Scotland

Supermarkup!

Which? reveals the grocery products that you could be paying too much for

Shoppers who regularly buy Persil laundry detergent, Andrex toilet paper and Kenco Millicano coffee could be overpaying by up to £3 per item as a new Which? investigation reveals the shocking price differences between supermarkets on popular products.

The consumer champion analysed thousands of prices across six months at major UK supermarkets – Aldi, Asda, Lidl, Morrisons, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose – including both own label and branded items. 

Which? experts found big variations in the price of the same branded groceries at different supermarkets. The pricing analysis also showed how prices on some items fluctuate dramatically even at the same supermarket chain – exposing one of the most common tricks of supermarket pricing. 

Persil non-biological washing liquid had the biggest price difference of any branded product in the investigation, and was on average £2.98 more at Morrisons than at Lidl. 

Andrex Supreme Quilts toilet tissue had the second biggest average price difference, costing £2.60 more at Waitrose than at Morrisons, which offered the cheapest average price.

Waitrose and Ocado were the most expensive on average for Kenco Millicano coffee, which was £2.06 less on average at Aldi. Waitrose also charged the most for Hellmann’s Real Squeezy Mayonnaise, which was £1.87 less at Sainsbury’s, and PG Tips Pyramid Tea Bags, which were £1.87 less at Asda.

Out of all the products Which? included in its pricing analysis, Persil non-bio also had the biggest price variation within the same supermarket chain – alternating fairly regularly between £5 and £10 at Morrisons across the six month period. Which? found the price also varied at several other supermarkets – by as much as £4 at Tesco, £3.50 at Asda and £3 at Ocado.  

Other products that varied significantly at the same retailer included PG Tips Pyramid tea bags, which fluctuated by £2.77 at Ocado, and Twinings English Breakfast and Twinings Every Day Tea Bags, which both changed by £2.65 at Sainsbury’s. Andrex Supreme Quilts toilet tissue paper fluctuated by £2.65 at Waitrose.

By dropping a price on a popular item and advertising it as a discount before raising it for a short while and then dropping it again, supermarkets give the illusion that shoppers are making a saving. In reality, shoppers buying at the higher price are paying more than they should to compensate for the times the price is lower.

When it came to non-branded items, Which? found price differences that were even more stark. Own-brand prawns were on average £3.28 more at Ocado and Waitrose than at Aldi – the biggest price difference across supermarkets of any product in Which?’s investigation. 

There were also yawning gaps between the supermarkets on prices for own-label salmon fillets which varied by £2.26 on average between Waitrose and Aldi. 

Olive oil varied by £1.81 between Ocado and Waitrose where the price was the same, and Aldi. Beef sirloin steak was around £1.72 more at Ocado than Lidl and Aldi where the price was also the same. Similarly an equivalent ready meal of chicken korma with pilau rice was £1.51 more at Ocado than at Aldi and Lidl, where the price was also the same.

While Which? used experts to ensure that the own-brand products were as comparable as possible based on a range of factors including weight, quality and other industry data, they will inevitably differ in terms of quality, freshness, and taste across different supermarkets. 

Quality, range, customer service, store layout and convenience are also important factors, and may lead some consumers to choose a more expensive supermarket for their weekly shop. 

Despite often being the most expensive supermarket, Waitrose topped Which?’s annual supermarket survey. Customers gave the high-end store full marks for the appearance of its stores and range of products although perhaps unsurprisingly it did not do well for value for money. 

Meanwhile, despite low scores on product range and store appearance, Aldi was also rated highly in Which?’s survey by shoppers who value low prices.

For shoppers watching their purse strings, Which? recommends keeping an eye out for fluctuating prices and dodgy special offers. 

Natalie Hitchins, Head of Home Products and Services at Which?, said: “While prices will inevitably vary between different supermarkets, shoppers might be shocked to see that they could be overpaying by such significant margins for exactly the same products.

“Most supermarkets use some sneaky pricing tactics from time to time, so pay attention to the prices of your favourite products – and don’t assume you’re getting a good deal just because the item is on offer.”