North Edinburgh News – Page 322 – The NEN

Take to the skies with Daredevil Photographer Alfred Buckham at the National Galleries of Scotland this autumn

Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer

National Galleries Scotland: Portrait

18 October 2025 – 19 April 2026

Free admission

Alfred Buckham | Daredevil Photographer | National Galleries of Scotland

This autumn at the Portrait gallery in Edinburgh, take to the skies and see the world from above the clouds through the remarkable work of Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer.

From 18 October 2025 – 19 April 2026, meet the man behind some of the most iconic aerial photographs ever taken, marvel at the death-defying lengths he took to capture the perfect image and explore how his innovative techniques in the darkroom paved the way for modern technologies such as Photoshop and AI.

Free to visit at the National Galleries Scotland: Portrait, this will be the first major exhibition dedicated to Alfred Buckham and can only be seen in Scotland.

This exhibition will bring together over 100 photographs and objects including popular works from the Scottish national collection, alongside extensive archival material generously loaned by Alfred Buckham’s grandsons, Richard and John Buckham. Thanks to the support of the Buckham family, personal objects including letters, photographs and even the passport Alfred Buckham used will be put on public display for the first time.

A maverick of early aviation, Alfred Buckham (1879-1956) created his own unique style of photography by combining daring exploits in the air with innovation in the darkroom. Born in London, Buckham learned his craft by teaching photography before joining the Royal Naval Air Service in 1916, a predecessor to the Royal Air Force.

Hailed as an exceptionally skilled flyer, he combined his talent for aviation with his passion for photography, resulting in remarkable endeavours and trailblazing images. Based for most of his military career at RAF Turnhouse, now Edinburgh Airport, central Scotland became a natural playground for Buckham to refine his photographic techniques and let his imagination soar.

Daredevil Photographer will chart his phenomenal story from his early photographic experiments in Scotland to exciting adventures in South America and look closer at the skilled and inventive ways he created his work.

Explore Scotland from the air and get a new perspective of well-known sights, just as Buckham himself would have. Daredevil Photographer celebrates the impact Scotland had on Buckham’s work through his images of recognisable landmarks including St Andrews Golf Links, Linlithgow Palace and the Wallace Monument in Stirling.

The exhibition will also feature several images of the Forth Rail Bridge, Buckham’s most photographed landmark. The iconic bridge was the subject of one of his first composite photographs and appeared on the 1918 RAF Turnhouse Christmas card, which will go on display alongside the original photography.

Daredevil Photographer will delve into the darkroom and uncover more about the creative processes used to bring Buckham’s unique images to life. After the First World War, Buckham began experimenting with composite photography; a technique where several negatives are used to create one photographic print.

While this wasn’t a new concept, composite photography added a layer of creative freedom to Buckham’s work, much like a very early form of Photoshop.

From his vast collection of glass negatives – he had over 2000 cloud images alone in his ‘cloud library’ – Buckham had the means to create images which became immersive, giving a unique sense of flying alongside these incredible aircraft while viewing the world below.

It was through the technique of composite photography that some of Buckham’s most famous works were born, including the iconic aerial view of Edinburgh (about 1920). This striking photograph shows a bi-plane hovering amongst wispy clouds above Edinburgh Castle, with Arthur’s Seat visible through the mist in the background, and the bustling city below.

For the first time, Edinburgh will be displayed alongside the camera and original glass negatives Buckham used to capture and create this much-loved image. Visitors will also be encouraged to get inspired and try their hand at creating their own composite creations through interactive exhibits.

Telling Buckham’s story through his own words and memories, Daredevil Photographer allows visitors to meet the courageous and humorous man behind the camera. Firsthand accounts of his incredible exploits in the air and ingenious creative methods on the ground will enhance his story and highlight his adventurous spirit: Ah! One was a rare daredevil in those days! (Alfred Buckham, The New York Times, 1930).

A free and unique immersive audio experience will bring Buckham’s world of flight and imagination to life through his own words. Hear Buckham’s grandson Richard give a voice to his grandfather’s memories and reflections on his daredevil persona.

Daredevil in every sense of the word, Buckham went to incredible feats to capture the perfect shot, which the exhibition will explore. His preferred methods included standing in an open cockpit while mid-air, with his leg tied to the seat as a nod to safety. As a result, he experienced no less than nine crashes in his lifetime, one ending in a serious throat injury that cut his military career short.

However, he would not be deterred, describing his eccentric photography methods in a surprisingly relaxed way:

“It is not easy to tumble out of an aeroplane, unless you really want to, and on considerably more than a thousand flights I have used a safety belt only once, and then it was thrust upon me.

“I always stand up to make an exposure and, taking the precaution to tie my right leg to the seat, I am free to move rapidly, and easily, in any desired direction; and loop the loop; and indulge in other such delights, with perfect safety” – Alfred Buckham, The Camera, January 1927.

Daredevil Photographer will celebrate Buckham’s skill in the air through a range of his mesmerising photographs. Encounter stunning images of the leading aircraft of the day, such as the Bristol Fighter, a two seated bi-plane designed for aerial reconnaissance, and the bizarre airships of the 1920s.

See them soaring through the skies in all weathers, amongst an array of remarkable landscapes. The exhibition will include one of his most well-known works, The Heart of the Empire (1923), on loan from the V&A Museum in London and displayed in Edinburgh for the first time.

The photograph follows a bi-plane as it glides across the London skyline, with landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the River Thames in view. Exhibited by the Royal Photographic Society in 1925, The Heart of the Empire secured Buckham’s position as one of Britain’s leading aerial photographers.

Experience the golden age of travel through Buckham’s portfolio of images spanning across the globe. In 1931, a commission from Fortune Magazine took Buckham on an epic fifteen-week trip across the Americas, covering 19,000 miles and setting a world record. Starting in New York City and taking the opportunity to capture the newly built Empire State Building, Buckham photographed his intrepid journey from the United States to the tip of South America to share with the world.

Daredevil Photographer will chart Buckham’s incredible journey, from expansive views of Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro and the snowy caps of the Andes Mountains to perilous scenes of smoking volcanic creators in Guatemala and Mexico. Through his death-defying adventures and stunning photographs, Buckham expanded public understanding of the world, creating an exciting legacy which continues to capture imaginations today.

Louise Pearson, curator of photography at the National Galleries of Scotland says: “Alfred Buckham’s eye-catching photograph of Edinburgh is one of the most popular artworks in the National Galleries of Scotland collection.

“This enthralling image becomes even more intriguing when you learn that it is a darkroom jigsaw – a composite photograph made through a combination of technical skill and creative vision. Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer tells the remarkable story of this maverick of early aviation whose adventures took him from aerial reconnaissance photographer to intrepid explorer via numerous loop the loops.”

Alfred Buckham: Daredevil Photographer is a free exhibition at National Galleries Scotland: Portrait, opening on 18 October 2025.

US financial giants boost UK investments and jobs

UK Government has announced over £1.25 billion of inward investment from US finance companies, creating 1,800 jobs

New US investments will create 1,800 jobs from Belfast to Edinburgh and boost benefits for millions of customers.
Total of over £1.25 billion of private US investment committed to the UK’s world-leading financial services sector including PayPal, Bank of America, Citi Bank, and S&P.
Demonstrates the enduring strength of the UK-US ‘golden corridor’ in financial services, with British banks expanding operations into the US and booming cross-border investment flows reinforcing that working with America is best for Britain.
Deal lines up £20 billion in trade between the two nations – including an expected £7 billion commitment from BlackRock to grow in the UK.

London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester are set to benefit from a wave of new US investment into the financial services sector, reinforcing the strength of the UK-US economic partnership ahead of next week’s Presidential State Visit.

The Westminster government says working with America is best for Britain — and today’s announcement proves it. A total of over £1.25 billion in private sector commitments from leading US firms — including PayPal, Bank of America, Citi Bank, and S&P Global — will support job creation, drive innovation, and deliver improved services for consumers in the UK.

US giants are capitalising on Britain’s leadership in financial services – expanding operations and opening new offices across the nation, with London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester set to gain from a wave of skilled job creation.

Bank of America is set to create up to 1,000 new jobs in Belfast, marking its first-ever operation in Northern Ireland — a major milestone that underscores the region’s growing role in global financial services.

Citi Group today confirms it is investing £1.1 billion across its UK operations, including a further commitment to growing its presence in Northern Ireland where the bank is already one of the top employers in Belfast now employing over 4,000 people — firmly establishing Belfast as a major technology powerhouse.

BlackRock are celebrating the opening of their new Edinburgh office this week, which will see their 800-strong footprint nearly double, as part of their multi-billion dollar investment into the UK.

In Manchester, S&P Global are investing over £4 million into their Manchester offices which will support 200 permanent jobs to boost their nearly 3,000-strong UK workforce.

Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Today’s announcements reinforce the UK’s position as the world’s leading investment destination. Our financial services sector is at the heart of a modern, dynamic Industrial Strategy.

“Strengthening ties with the US boosts our economy, creates jobs, and secures our role in global finance, delivering on our Plan for Change.

“These investments reflect the strength of our enduring ‘golden corridor’ with one of our closest trading partners, ahead of the US Presidential State Visit.”

This marks a significant vote of confidence in the UK’s position as a global financial hub and in the government’s plan to make Britain the best place in the world to invest — a vision underpinned by the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, which is driving investment into priority sectors like financial services.

These investments highlight the enduring value of the transatlantic relationship — a cornerstone of shared prosperity that supports millions of jobs and drives growth in every region.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “This commitment from America’s leading financial institutions demonstrates the immense potential of the UK economy, our strong relationship with the US and the confidence global investors have in our Plan for Change, which is making the UK the best place in the world to invest and do business.

“These investments will create thousands of high-skilled jobs from Belfast to Edinburgh, kickstarting the growth that is essential to putting money in working people’s pockets across every part of the United Kingdom.”

Broadridge is making major investments into their new London office, further strengthening its UK presence and deepening transatlantic ties in financial services.

As part of the UK’s expanding fintech and digital innovation sector, PayPal is announcing a £150m investment in product innovations and growth that will benefit customers throughout the UK, reinforcing Britain’s position as a key market for the brand globally.

Jane Fraser, Citi Group CEO said: “Citi’s commitment to the UK runs deep. This is home to many of our most senior leaders and nearly 14,000 colleagues across London, Belfast, Edinburgh and Jersey.

“We’re proud to be serving 85% of the FTSE 100 and to have stood beside UK companies through every market cycle, raising capital, financing growth and helping them compete on the world stage.

“The UK isn’t simply one of our largest markets; it is core to Citi’s foundation as a truly global bank.”

The UK-US investment relationship has never been stronger, with over £1.2 trillion invested in each other’s countries at the end of 2023.

These new investment announcements are accompanied by new significant commitments by financial companies to ramp up their commercial activity and capital flows between our two economies in the coming years.

Blackrock is expecting to allocate over £7 billion to the UK market next year on behalf of clients, and is investing £500 million into enterprise data centres across the country.

Rothesay is planning to double its investment in the US (by £7 billion) over the next few years, and OakNorth is committing to increased capital and lending of over £3.5 billion to support its US operations.

British banks are expanding their US footprint; Barclays alone has deployed over $2 trillion in capital across the US in 2024 and continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening UK-US investment ties. The bank has an ambition to double this amount over the next decade, expanding its footprint and supporting growth across sectors.

All in all, that will see investment and capital commitments of over £8 billion coming to the UK, and over £12 billion going the other way, creating jobs and opportunity in both countries.

Earlier this year, the Chancellor launched the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, which included financial services as a high growth sector, signifying the UK’s commitment improving financial regulations and driving investment and skilled jobs into the UK.

The UK and US agreed an Economic Prosperity Deal which secured major tariff reductions for key sectors and protected jobs in the automotive and aerospace sector. Discussions continue with the US on a wider UK-US Economic Deal which will look at increasing digital trade, strengthen supply chains and boost access for our world-leading services companies.

BlackRock will open their new Edinburgh offices on 18 September, which shows their ongoing commitment to the area – this new home will allow Blackrock to grow from 800 to 1,400. Once complete, two of the top five largest BlackRock offices will be in the UK.

Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, said: “As the largest asset manager in the UK, BlackRock is proud to serve over 13 million British people who are saving for retirement. Today we are announcing an investment of half a billion pounds into enterprise data centres across the country, advancing digital infrastructure for British-based businesses.

“In addition, over the last year our clients around the world invested over £7bn into UK public equity and fixed income securities. We expect this trend to continue, supporting jobs, growth and innovation across a wide range of British industries.”

NHS 24: Medicine Run Out?

Find where you can get more medication when your medicine supplies have run out.

NHS inform’s accessing medicines self-help guide will help to decide whether you need to contact your GP practice or pharmacy for more medication. The guide can be used for information about prescription and non-prescription medication.

https://nhs24.info/accessing-medicines

Reduction in vacant and derelict land

Scottish Government investment continues to help drive progress

The amount of vacant and derelict land in Scotland has fallen by more than a quarter since 2016 according to the latest annual survey.

Of 335 sites brought back into use in 2024, 192 – more than half – were reclaimed for housing.

Welcoming the figures, Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: “Redevelopment of vacant and derelict land for housing or businesses can turn an under-utilised asset into productive use and reduce the need for greenfield development.

“Reuse of vacant and derelict land can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, promote environmental justice and improved quality of life, and help to support communities to flourish and tackle inequalities.

“Our Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme has been a driver of this progress, with £36.5 million invested in 2021-22 which has resulted in a cumulative total of 468 hectares of vacant and derelict land being brought back into use.

“The fund will continue over the current year, and 11 projects will be supported by over £9.5 million of funding from this Programme in 2025/26.”

Link to survey results www.gov.scot/isbn/9781806431403

£70,000 and Counting: Edinburgh neurodiversity charity’s fundraising heroes drive charity support forward

Co-founder Robin Dow’s 25-mile challenge to celebrate 25 years of the neurodiversity charity paves the way for change
Board members and Charity’s CEO embark on challenges to drive donations further

Mindroom is celebrating a series of extraordinary fundraising activities, led by co-founder Robin Dow, who, at 81 and recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, has already raised a huge £70,000 following his 25-mile walk from Mindroom’s Leith office to Tantallon Castle.

Robin’s epic walk is homage to the charity’s 25-year journey since he co-founded it with author, journalist and wife, Sophie Dow, on 2 August 2000. ‘A Mile for Every Year,’ which was expected to raise £50,000.

Reflecting on the experience, Robin Dow commented: “People are enormously generous, and we are incredibly grateful. The substantial amount we have already raised reflects countless small and large contributions coming together.

“The fact that so many people have responded and actively engaged shows that we not only have wonderful families and friends, but also that, in Mindroom, we have a very worthwhile charity.”

Adrian Astley-Jones – specialist in private equity tech advisory and Non-Executive Director for Mindroom – will also soon join the fundraising efforts with his own epic swim, inspiring colleagues and supporters to rally behind the cause.

On the 14th and 15th of September, Adrian will step out of his comfort zone and embark on a big challenge with three close friends, when he attempts to swim across the 3rd largest ocean whirlpool, The Gulf of Corryvreckan, located around 3 miles out from mainland Scotland’s West Coast, and deemed ‘unnavigable’ by the Royal Navy.

Commenting on the challenge ahead, Adrian adds: “Passion and commitment are part of the work we do with the Mindroom’s community.

“We have one goal, and that is to offer as much direct support as we can and make a difference to real people. I will certainly do my very best to contribute as much as possible to this very important mission. Every stroke counts!”

Adrian’s fundraising challenge carries a deeply personal meaning, as he has chosen to split donations between two causes close to his heart: Mindroom and Dementia UK.

CEO for Mindroom, Alan Thornburrow, will also be pushing fundraising efforts even further when he takes on the Loch Ness Marathon on Sunday, 28 September.

Talking about the joint fundraising efforts and the team spirit, Alan said: “Participating in the Loch Ness Marathon is more than a personal challenge…It’s an opportunity to channel energy into meaningful change.

“I’m proud to contribute every step of the way.

“Powered by individuals’ efforts and public generosity, Mindroom’s support has been growing steadily since I began as CEO in 2022, and our fundraising feats will benefit people directly, with donations translated into both the future of the charity and the development of new and expanded services, offering tangible support.

“This is why we do what we do, to inspire real change!”

To donate to the three individual fundraising efforts, the links are:

Robin’s epic 25-mile walk;

Adrian’s open ocean swim;

Alan’s Loch Ness marathon

Cineworld 4DX Rewind returns

Cineworld is excited to announce the return of 4DX Rewind this September across Cineworld 4DX cinemas nationwide. From Friday, September 19 to Thursday, October 2, film fans and families alike can enjoy the ultimate immersive experience from just £5.99 per film or FREE for Unlimited members.

Available only at Cineworld, 4DX is a thrilling multisensory experience, featuring motion-synchronised seats, gusts of wind, sprays of water, aromatic scents, bubbles, fog and strobe lighting, bringing every scene to life in the comfort of your seat.

Audiences can experience the excitement of multi-sensory cinema during this exclusive two-week celebration, showcasing some of the most exciting films that 4DX has to offer. This includes two blockbusters screening in 4DX for the very first time in the UK – smash hit Frozen will make you feel every icy gust of magic while 90s classic Jumanji will capture the adrenaline rush of the adventure with moving seats.

The full list of films available to watch include:

Frozen (2013) – never before seen in 4DX in the UK!
How To Train Your Dragon (2025)
A Minecraft Movie
Jumanji (1995) – never before seen in 4DX in the UK!
F1 The Movie
Jurassic World: Rebirth
Twisters (2024)
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Final Destination: Bloodlines
28 Years Later

Casey Cohen, VP of International Marketing at Cineworld, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back 4DX Rewind this year. There’s nothing like a 4DX experience which is why we’re excited to be screening such a wide range of films this year, including two epic films never seen before in 4DX with Frozen and Jumanji.

“4DX really makes you feel every spark of magic, every monsoon lashing down rain, and every single adventure. It’s perfect for a family day out or for fans looking to experience their favourite films in a whole new way.”

Tickets for the first week of 4DX Rewind are available now via the Cineworld website and Cineworld app, with further tickets to follow.

#4DXRewind

Edinburgh Scottish Thistle Awards regional winners revealed

A historic street, a climate conscious zoo, an inspiring festival, an inclusive visitor attraction and two tourism champions have been crowned Edinburgh’s best at Scotland’s top tourism and events industry awards. 

Six businesses and individuals from the city received awards at the Central and East of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on Thursday night (11 September).

For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards, this year with new headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, have showcased individual businesses, people and partnership working.

They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries, and inspiring staff.

Delivered by VisitScotland, in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards combines five regional awards and a national final.

Winners from across the Capital include:

Edinburgh Zoo, who took home two awards – Best Visitor Attraction and Climate Action Award, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.

Judges praised the popular attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.

Ben Supple, Deputy Chief Executive, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud that Edinburgh Zoo has been named the best visitor attraction in Central and East Scotland.

“Nature needs us all more than ever and we want everyone who visits the zoo to learn more about our natural world and how they can protect wildlife.

“Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife.

“It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award too, including the installation of our new solar meadow.”

The Real Mary King’s Close was also a double winner, scooping both Employer of the Year and Individual of the Year – General Manager Paul Nixon.

The historic street sits beneath the Royal Mile, where guests explore authentically preserved 17th-century streets on immersive, one-hour tours led by costumed guides.

Paul, who also chairs the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Employer of the Year. This award reflects the passion, care and creativity of our brilliant team — the heart of everything we do.

“From wellbeing to development, we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired.”

And reflecting on his personal accomplishment, Paul added: “It’s an incredible honour to be named Tourism Individual of the Year. I’m fortunate to work in an industry that’s all about people — their stories, experiences and communities.

“This award reflects the brilliant teams I’ve worked with and the passion that drives us all to keep making Scotland’s tourism offer world-class.”

Edinburgh International Book Festival won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by STV.

The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which celebrates and shares the power of writers, their ideas, and the words they craft to illuminate, challenge, and inspire.

Held in the heart of the city at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, each August it presents almost 700 events featuring writers and thinkers from around the world.

As well as children and families, young adults, adults, and schools programmes, the festival brings writers into community settings such as libraries, hospitals and prisons, and streams events online.

Jenny Niven, Director & CEO, Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “We’re honoured to be recognised for our work bringing authors and audiences together through a shared love of books, ideas, and conversation.

“This win is a testament to the creativity, care, and commitment of our team and the many brilliant partners we collaborate with across Scotland and beyond.”

The Inclusion Award, sponsored by Historic Scotland, was won by Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.

Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction earned the judges’ favour through initiatives like sensory backpacks and quiet spaces, and their new virtual tour shows thoughtful consideration and offers reassurance and flexibility for all visitors.

These showed their commitment to inclusivity – especially for neurodiverse visitors.

General Manager Andrew Johnson said: “We are absolutely thrilled to win this award for Inclusivity.

“It’s a powerful recognition of the commitment our entire team has made to ensure Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and inspired.”

Finally, The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland was presented to Hugh Mackay from Highland Experience Tours.

Hugh began his career in the tourism industry in 2024. While working with Highland Experience Tours, he has delivered over 200 tours, received more than 150 individual five-star guest reviews, and contributed to a 12% uplift in overall tour ratings for the company.

He has been praised for his leadership, authenticity, and natural charisma, which has made him a standout ambassador for Scottish tourism and a true rising star.

Hugh said: “As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”

VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “A huge well done to all our regional winners for this amazing achievement. Having such strong representation from Edinburgh highlights the quality found across the city.

“Being recognised by the Scottish Thistle Awards, means tourism businesses are considered some of the best in the country. The awards help to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are praised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities.

“I wish everyone the best of luck for the national final in November where they will be representing Edinburgh.” 

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.

Regional winners for Central and East were announced at a ceremony hosted by radio DJ Grant Stott and delivered by VisitScotland, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts – part of the Abbey Group, a collection of travel companies specialising in inbound tourism to the UK & Ireland.

Winners from all five regional awards, which also include the West, Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA) the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards (delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise) go on to compete at the Scottish Thistle Award national ceremony in November.

This year’s sponsors also include AccessAble, Fishers, Get Your Guide, Historic Scotland, HIT Scotland, Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), STV, The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun. 

PICTURES: Connor Mollison/VisitScotland

 For a full list of winners, please visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk

Shaun of The Dead, Hot Fuzz and other Edgar Wright classics return to Vue this autumn

From one of Britain’s most acclaimed and beloved filmmakers, classic genre comedies Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz are back on the big screen at Vue this September and October as part of a special Edgar Wright season.

Ahead of his reimagining of the Stephen King’s action-thriller classic The Running Man, the works of the fan-favourite director will once again take centre stage, including his iconic Cornetto Trilogy.

The three cult classics Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World’s End, all starring actors Simon Pegg and Nick Frost as they face off against the undead, a murderous cult and aliens, will be back on the big screen starting from 12 September.

Wright’s other celebrated work – including Scott Pilgrim Vs The World, Baby Driver and psychological horror Last Night In Soho- also make their big screen return throughout October.

Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “At Vue, we celebrate the very best of British filmmaking, and there are few names who have done more for the UK film scene over the past few decades than Edgar Wright.

“Ahead of his upcoming release The Running Man, we’re excited to showcase his very best work where it belongs – right at home up on the big screen at Vue.”

To find out more, visit myvue.com

Back on the Big Screen at Vue

Shaun of the Dead – 13 September
Hot Fuzz – 20 September
The World’s End – 27 September
Scott Pilgrim Vs The World – 10 October
Baby Driver – 17 October
Last Night In Soho – 24 October

MSP welcomes new carers payment

Gordon Macdonald MSP has welcomed new proposals laid before the Scottish Parliament which will see unpaid carers in Edinburgh receive greater financial support, including a brand-new annual payment worth up to £520 for those who care for more than one person.

The Carer Additional Person Payment is expected to benefit around 18,000 people across Scotland and will form part of the SNP Scottish Government’s new Carer Support benefit package. This marks another milestone in Scotland’s distinct approach to social security, built on the SNP’s principles of dignity, fairness and respect.

Other measures include extending the Young Carer Grant to 19 year olds, widening access to Carer Support following the death of the cared-for person, and easing rules around breaks in caring responsibilities.

Commenting, Gordon Macdonald MSP said:

“Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution in communities across the city, supporting family, friends and neighbours with dedication and love. The SNP is once again showing it recognises that contribution by putting money directly into the pockets of those caring for more than one person.

“This new payment, alongside the existing Carer Support Payment and Carer Supplement, will provide vital help at a time when so many carers are juggling even more financial pressures with the demands of looking after loved ones because of Labour’s austerity measures and cost of living crisis.

“This is another clear example of the SNP doing everything we can with the powers we have to deliver a fairer social security system for Scotland – one rooted in compassion and respect, and that improves lives where Westminster has failed carers for far too long.”

Film and Screen to become part of Scotland’s curriculum

For the first time pupils across Scotland, from age 3 to 18, will have the opportunity to study Film and Screen as a practical arts subject

Screen Scotland, with Education Scotland and Scottish Government has officially launched the national rollout of Film and Screen into Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence.

Over the last three years, Screen Scotland has devised, designed and delivered a programme to test and evaluate the Film and Screen Curriculum, a curriculum for every level of formal Scottish Education for learners age 3 to 18.

Schools in 30 local authority areas across Scotland, including Shetland, Scottish Borders, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dumfries and Galloway and Angus have been involved in this globally unique programme delivered to over 6000 children across early years, primary and secondary education.

Fi Milligan-Rennie, Head of Education – Screen at Screen Scotland said: “Screen Scotland’s film and screen curriculum creates democracy of opportunity for every child and young person to learn about the film and screen industries in Scotland, to understand how it works and most importantly to recognise that they can be part of it.

“Filmmaking, making television programmes or content online requires the ability to tell stories well, to persuade colleagues to work with you, to gather resources and plan ahead. It builds confidence and we have seen across the development period the tremendous positive impacts it has already had for pupils across Scotland.

“It is thanks to the enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to creatively experiment from schools across the country that we can now celebrate Film and Screen as a subject in its own right.”

The curriculum is endorsed by some of Scotland’s key acting, filmmaking and presenting talent, including James MacAvoy, Lucy Halliday, Mark Bonnar, Julie Wilson Nimmo, Edith Bowman, Chloe Pirrie, Martin Compston, Dougray Scott, Sanjeev Kohli, Mark Cousins and Lauren Lyle.

Neil Millar from Education Scotland said: “Over the last three years I have been proud to work with, and support, the inspiring work that has been undertaken in creating and facilitating the draft Film and Screen Curriculum across Scotland.

“From the outset, the educational and social impact of the pilot Film and Screen curriculum on schools, teachers and most importantly pupils, has been immense. The proof of this is in the curriculum work developed and showcased by the children and young people themselves.”

Laura Heggie, Teacher at Graeme High School said: “I’ve been so impressed…by how much the curriculum gives pupils ownership over their own learning. They’re so engaged and want to get it right that they are working and challenging each other within their film crews.

“I can hear them critiquing each other’s work and offering suggestions to improve as I walk round the room. This is unprompted by me. The development in their confidence and ability to contribute has really grown…as they have moved to working within the production groups.”

Kian McLear, S5 pupil at Drummond Community High School said: “Film and Screen has allowed me to express creativity with my fellow classmates, as well as giving me an in interest in the film industry as a whole.

“There’s a very good balance between practical work and analysis, and there’s never any lessons or practical tasks that drag on.”

James MacAvoy, Actor and Director said: “Teaching film and screen in schools is the most equitable way to engage in an art form, while demystifying something that can seem distant or inaccessible.

“It’s not just about the next generations of Scottish filmmakers, it’s about understanding the creative right to be seen and heard and making the space and time for that to happen, for every child in Scotland.”

Julie Wilson-Nimmo, Actor said: “I’m so happy that the Film and Screen curriculum is going on the school curriculum, when I was a young girl growing up in East Kilbride and I went to see my favourite film of all time Gregory’s Girl, I never thought I could be a part of that world, as an actor or behind the camera.

“The fact nursery, primary and secondary kids will be able to tap into this on their school curriculum is amazing. I’m 100% behind it.”

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “The arts are vital to the success of Scotland’s young people, inspiring them to develop a wide range of skills – film and screen learning is very much part of this story.

“The initial Film and Screen pilots demonstrated the innovation that lies at the heart of Scotland’s curriculum. This further roll out of support and advice to teachers across Scotland will help to support the continued growth of film and screen learning in our classrooms.”

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “I’m delighted to welcome this world-first curriculum, which brings the magic of film and screen to the classroom for learners of all ages. In addition to encouraging untapped creativity, it will be instrumental in the career development of the next generation of Scottish film and screen talent.

“The Scottish Government is clear that a skilled, diverse workforce is essential to the continued success of our screen sector, which is set to be worth £1 billion to Scotland’s economy by 2030.

“Working with Screen Scotland, we are investing in Scottish skills and talent to ensure Scottish voices are represented throughout the production journey, and that this growth leaves a legacy of an ever-stronger crew base across Scotland.”