Category: North Edinburgh News

Scotland’s east coast faces ‘significant water scarcity’

Scotland faces record water scarcity with 17 catchments at Significant

Scotland’s east coast is facing record pressure on its rivers, with 17 areas now at Significant Scarcity – the highest number since the current version of the National Water Scarcity Plan was introduced. More areas could reach this level in the coming days.

While it is difficult to compare directly with previous years because area boundaries have been refined over time, this year stands out for the scale and duration of low rivers flows. In the Lower Spey, for example, the 2025 season has seen the highest number of low-flow days in a 70-year record.

In response, SEPA have imposed temporary restrictions on licensed abstractions in affected areas. The total number of licence restrictions put in place so far this year is around 270, the highest number SEPA have ever issued.

Significant Scarcity is now affecting the Upper Tweed, Mid-Tweed and Lauderdale, Tyne (Lothian), Fife (East Neuk), Leven (Fife), Lunan Water, Lower Dee and Water of Feugh, South Ugie Water, River Findhorn, Findhorn (East), River Avon, Lower Spey, Deveron, Upper and Lower Don (Aberdeenshire), Ythan and North Fife areas.

All affected licence holders have been issued with letters explaining what they need to do, with the time and date the restrictions come into effect. SEPA officers are out in catchments daily, monitoring conditions and supporting abstractors.

The River Lossie will reach Significant Scarcity on Friday. Unless there is sustained rainfall over the coming days the Brodie, River Helmsdale, Cromarty Firth (North), Inverness (East), River Nairn, Kyle of Sutherland and River Carron areas are due to go to Significant Scarcity next week.

While some rain is forecast, it is not yet clear whether this will be enough to see rivers recover enough to lift restrictions. SEPA will monitor the situation closely.

Regional conditions

North-East

Significant Scarcity: Deveron, Ythan, Upper and Lower Don, Lower Dee and Water of Feugh

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Dee

Speyside

Significant Scarcity: Lower Spey, River Findhorn, Findhorn East, River Avon, and from Friday the River Lossie

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Findhorn (Brodie and River Nairn), Mid and Upper Spey

Highlands and Islands

Moderate Scarcity: Helmsdale, Shin, Conon, Inverness (East)

Alert: River Naver, Thurso, Orkney

Early Warning: Shetland

Central – East

Significant Scarcity: East Neuk of Fife, Leven, Lunan Water, North Fife, Tyne

Moderate Scarcity: Almond and the rest of the Esk, Firth of Forth and Firth of Tay catchments

South – East

Significant Scarcity: Upper Tweed, Mid-Tweed & Lauderdale

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Tweed catchment

Unusual year of pressure

This year has been highly unusual, with repeated dry weather keeping rivers under strain throughout 2025.

Rivers naturally cope with changes in flow as part of their annual cycle, but extended low flows increase pressure on river ecology and recovery takes longer. Repeated low-flow years increase the risk of long-term or even permanent changes.

To better understand the impacts, SEPA has increased ecological monitoring. Additional assessments have been carried out over the summer to assess impacts on fish, in-stream ecology, and water quality.

David Harley, SEPA’s Head of Water and Planning, said: “With 17 catchments now at Significant Scarcity, and more abstraction licences restricted than ever before, Scotland’s rivers are under record pressure.

“Restrictions are always a last resort, but they are essential to protect the environment and all water users. The National Water Scarcity Plan sets out an approach which ensures the correct balance between protecting the environment and providing water for human and economic activity. It has clear thresholds for when restrictions are imposed and lifted, based on detailed monitoring of river levels underpinned by evidence and expertise in relation to the impact of extended low flows on river ecology.

“This year has been highly unusual – we’ve not seen water scarcity conditions persist for this length of time before. It underlines the importance of learning from these events and planning for how Scotland uses and protects its precious water resources in the face of climate change.”

Local Tesco store supports local hospice with five figure donation

As part of their ongoing commitment to the local community, a Tesco Superstore in Edinburgh has raised £19,382 for St. Columba’s Hospice Care through instore fundraising and other initiatives.

The store, located on Broughton Road, has spent eight years raising vital funds for the hospice, which provides people in Edinburgh with end-of-life care, as well as supporting their families.

Recently, members of the Tesco team took part in the 7 Hills of Edinburgh Challenge, a long gruelling walk of around 27km with over 700m of climbing involved, in which they raised nearly £2,000 for the hospice alone.

In September, the team will be taking part in the famous Edinburgh Kiltwalk, part of Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event with over 178,000 people taking part since 2016.

Year-long fundraising in store includes a book donation point, which was started by store colleague Caroline Phillip, where customers are encouraged to take a book and make a small donation, which is then given to the hospice – with a current sum of £17,432 donated so far. Books are provided by local businesses and customers.

Ross Wallace, Store Manager at the Superstore, said: “We have supported St. Columba’s Hospice Care for many years and are delighted we have been able to give them such a fantastic donation of over £19,000.

“The hospice has provided help to not only colleagues in store, but our customers as well, so it’s a cause very close to our communities’ hearts.

“I’m extremely proud of all my staff for going the extra mile to raise funds for a vital service which supports so many people in the area, and I’d like to thank everyone who kindly donated over the years too.”

Amanda Southey, Partnerships Fundraiser, said: “We’re incredibly thankful to the team at Tesco for their continued commitment and generosity over the years.

“Their support makes a real difference to families across Edinburgh and the Lothians, allowing us to deliver expert, compassionate care, so no one has to face the end of life alone.”

Tesco Superstore is located at 7 Broughton Rd, Edinburgh, EH7 4EW.

Donations can be made to the store’s Kiltwalk efforts at: 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rosswallace-688924857d8396eb850a9ec7.

For more information on St. Columba’s Hospice Care and how to support, please visit https://stcolumbashospice.org.uk/.

Boosting trade during global uncertainty

Increasing investment and new priority export markets

Targeted funding has delivered a significant increase in the number of trade missions involving Scottish exporters in 2025. 

The Scottish Government has already approved 17 Scottish Chamber of Commerce missions to countries including the United States, China, Singapore, and Germany. This compares with 13 missions for the whole of 2024 and follows a £1.6 million funding boost to implement the First Minister’s Six Point Export plan, which expands assistance for exporters in the face of geopolitical uncertainty, tariffs and the continuing impact Brexit.

As well as supporting the 33% increase in the number of Chamber trade missions, the funding will enable  enterprise agencies to help an extra 100 exporters find new customers and generate an additional £75 million of forecast export sales.

The figures are released today ahead of a Scottish Parliament debate on growing Scotland’s exports and the publication of an updated version of the Scottish Government’s export strategy, A Trading Nation. 

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Scotland has always been a strong trading nation. We have a long and rich history of producing goods and services that are highly regarded and sought after across the world.

“In the current global climate, it is important that we increase our support to exporters in both new and existing markets. 

“Recognising the continued importance of the US market, we have awarded a new contract to identify export opportunities in specific states. And this week First Minister has been pressing the case in person with the President of the United States for the removal of tariffs on Scotch whisky.

“At the same we are looking to bolster trade links with countries such as Ukraine, where Scottish products and expertise can help provide support in its hour of need. 

“Businesses may face new barriers to trade but the potential for Scottish products remains huge. The Scottish Government will do everything in its power to support exporters and build on the highest ever forecast export sales figures of £2.46 billion for 2024-25.”

Young achievers and business leaders recognised at Inspire Awards 2025 in Scottish Parliament 

Young achievers and business leaders from Edinburgh and the Lothians were among those celebrated at the BYITC Inspire Awards 2025, held in the Scottish Parliament to recognise talent and leadership across the UK. 

Organised by the British Youth International College (BYITC), the annual awards celebrate excellence across academics, sport, art, culture, social impact, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The event gathered families, educators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and parliamentarians to applaud the next generation. 

Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP served as Chief Guest of Honour and event sponsor, alongside Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of Scottish Labour and Foysol Choudhury MSP, who all attended to support the award winners. 

Among the Edinburgh & Lothians Winners were: 

Academics
Kanav Jain, Edinburgh – STEM Wizard 
Alden Arun, Edinburgh – Maths Grandmaster 

All-Round Achievement
Aarush Gosain, Livingston – Dynamic Achiever 
Kenisha Jain, West Calder – Rising Marvel 
Chinemnna Okorie, Livingston – Young Intellect 

Business Excellence
Tanwi Bhattacharya, Founder of Nikkan Dance Academy, Edinburgh – Artistic Visionary 

Foysol Choudhury MSP praised the honourees: “It was a real honour to be at the Inspire Awards and celebrate so many talented young people and local business leaders from Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“Their achievements are inspiring, and they remind us why it’s so important to back the next generation, to make sure creativity, education, and entrepreneurship can thrive in our communities.” 

The evening featured performances from young artists and brought together families, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, highlighting how the next generation is already contributing to Scotland’s future. 

LeithChooses: Applications Open!

WELLBEING IN LEITH GETS LEITHCHOOSES 2026 FUNDING BOOST

LeithChooses is delighted to announce that applications are now open for funding bids for community projects across the wider Leith area! 

Organisations can apply for up to £5,000 for a project that ‘enhances well-being for Leithers’ and applications will be put to the public vote on 24th January 2026 at Leith Community Centre, Kirkgate at the much-loved LeithChooses Community Vote Day. 

This year saw 11 new projects receive funding, following an exceptionally busy vote day, including a new children’s running group, summer holiday workshops for children and parents, tea dances for seniors, a playground mural and a multicultural celebration day.  

LeithChooses Chair, Councillor Susan Rae, said “Many organisations from Leith have benefited from our participatory budget fund in the past, and we are excited to see what innovative projects Leith groups come up with this time, on the theme of ‘well-being in Leith’.  

“LeithChooses is entering its 15th year and we never fail to be impressed by the enthusiasm and resilience of Leithers.” 

“We are really excited to see what ideas come forward’ said Councillor Jack Caldwell, also on the Steering Group.

“From Newhaven to Broughton, Constitution Street to Hillside, LeithChooses has funded many groups and activities and this year should be no different.”

Sally Millar, Leith Links Community Council and Steering Group member, stressed the need to get applications in soon. “Participatory Budgeting allows communities to have a direct say in how community budgets are spent and to choose priorities for spending.

“The voting day is a great chance for organisations and the public to meet others who live, work, study or volunteer in the area. Get those applications in!”

The application window is open until 22nd October 2025. You can fill it in by visiting leithchooses.net/applications-for-leithchooses-2025-26-are-now-open. 

Support is available for any organisation that wishes to take part, please get in touch via leithchooses.net/would-you-like-help-with-your-application.

LeithChooses was started in 2010 as “£eith Decides” and disperses Community Grant funding for Edinburgh Council Wards 12 and 13.

More information on LeithChooses, please contact susan.rae@edinburgh.gov.uk or visit leithchooses.net.

New funding for Ukraine as Foreign Secretary visits Kyiv making clear Ukraine’s security is the UK’s security

  • UK aid funding boost to support Ukraine’s emergency energy needs and help vulnerable communities targeted by Putin’s aggression
  • Foreign Secretary to meet President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Ministers to boost UK and Ukraine relationship, because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security 
  • She will show unwavering support and hear from the Ukrainian people living through Russia’s aggression

Energy infrastructure and targeted communities in Ukraine will get new support to build resilience and support thanks to vital UK aid, as Yvette Cooper visits Ukraine in her first trip as Foreign Secretary.

In a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people who are on the frontline in defending their country and standing up against Russian aggression in Europe, the Foreign Secretary is clear that Ukraine is a priority for the UK.

After a summer of Russian delay tactics at peace talks, weeks of increased attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, and ahead of a difficult winter, her visit will reaffirm that this support is ironclad.

On Tuesday, Russia’s unprecedented violation of a NATO airspace in Poland showed a complete disregard for sovereignty and peace, following Russia’s delay tactics at peace talks throughout the summer. The Foreign Secretary will underscore the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine during her visit and make clear that the defence of Ukraine against Russian aggression is vital to the security of the UK and the whole of Europe.

The Foreign Secretary is due to visit the Cabinet of Ministers building in Kyiv, which was significantly damaged in recent Russia strikes. She will also visit one of the residential buildings destroyed by Russia’s brutal attacks on Ukraine, meeting families and children to hear first-hand their traumatising experiences of living through Putin’s illegal invasion.

The Foreign Secretary has also announced £142 million in UK aid, supporting Ukraine through winter and into next year.

£100 million will provide vital support for humanitarian assistance to help civilians in frontline communities, protect the most vulnerable and provide emergency support for those impacted by Russia’s continued attacks. This will include repairing critical water and heating systems, and helping to support livelihoods and jobs and strengthen Ukrainian resilience in the fourth winter of Russia’s illegal war.

£42 million will help carry out vital repairs to the electricity transmission network and put in place critical protection for gas and power infrastructure as winter starts to bite.

Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “I have chosen to visit Ukraine in my first few days as Foreign Secretary because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security.

“I am clear that the UK’s support is unwavering and stronger than ever as we know the long-term security and stability threat that Russian aggression poses not just to Ukraine, but to the whole of Europe and to all of us here in the UK. 

“Through our ongoing military support, lifesaving funding announced today, the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership and our ongoing leadership of the Coalition of the Willing, we will be by Ukraine’s side to achieve a just and lasting peace, and in friendship for years to come.

“Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his stalling and delaying in internationally-backed peace talks, and his blatant disregard for human life must end.”

Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s national security, which is a central part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.

As part of her visit, she will also meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Sybiha and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.

As part of her discussions with Foreign Minister Sybiha, she will also discuss shared priorities as part of the UK-Ukraine Strategic Dialogue, which will culminate in a meeting between the Prime Minister and the President.

Young dancer from Scotland to take part in prestigious ballet competition

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is delighted to announce that Heather Lyon from Edinburgh, Scotland will be taking part in the prestigious Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition which takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil from 11-19 October 2025. At this annual competition, young dancers from around the world will come together for a week of dance, to win competition prizes and scholarships. 

Heather age 18 started ballet at the age of three in her hometown Edinburgh, Scotland, and it soon became her passion. She took RAD ballet classes at a local dance school, KS Dance Academy. 

Currently studying at Northern Ballet School, England Heather watched others from previous years benefit from attending The Fonteyn competition. Heather is delighted and grateful to be a part of this year’s competition and excited for all the challenges and opportunities it will offer.

“I am so excited to take part in this competition and represent my home country of Scotland”, says Heather. 

Named in honour of RAD’s longest-serving president, Dame Margot Fonteyn DBE, The Fonteyn is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet competitions in the world, representing the pinnacle of achievement for young dancers trained in the RAD syllabus. 

Beginning in 1931, the competition has toured the globe and is dedicated to promoting dance, providing educational experiences and recognising excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. A launch pad for a professional career, past winners have become professional dancers with companies worldwide and enjoyed long-lasting careers in the arts.

At The Fonteyn, candidates compete for a chance to win the coveted Genee Gold medal supported by Freed of London, Silver and Bronze medals and cash prizes, and for the Dame Margot Fonteyn Audience Choice Award, Choreographic Award and Musicality Award.

Alongside the prizes, candidates have the chance to be awarded scholarships to some of the most prestigious ballet schools across the globe including English National Ballet School, Houston Ballet Academy and The Royal Ballet School. F

or more information and to book your tickets visit: The Fonteyn | Tickets

Edinburgh law firm aims to raise thousands for charity through wills

Capital locals urged to seize chance to plan ahead while supporting charity

EDINBURGH residents will have the chance to write a professionally prepared will at no charge, thanks to a nationwide initiative encouraging people to put their affairs in order and consider leaving a legacy to charity.

The scheme, which runs from September to November, allows participating solicitors to provide simple wills at no cost to clients.

Among those taking part locally is solicitor and estate agency Ralph Sayer, supporting the national Will Aid campaign and providing simple wills at no cost to clients.

Kimberley Mackay (above), Partner in Ralph Sayers’ Private Client department, said: “We speak to people every day who’ve been putting off writing a will.

“For many, it’s an emotional hurdle, most of us don’t like talking about our own death. For others, it’s the perception that legal services are complicated or expensive, but this scheme removes that barrier.

“It’s completely free for people to take part. In return, they are invited to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid. It is also a great opportunity for people to think about leaving a gift to a charity close to their heart in their will.”

“This is a meaningful introduction to our service in a professional, approachable way that will give people access to our expert team offering the very best legal advice.

“Taking this simple step can save huge stress for your family, and it can be the start of a trusted relationship with your solicitor, someone who can support you throughout life’s changes.

“We’re here to help and there is no such thing as a stupid question, and we want to ensure that those who come to us feel respected and heard.”

Approximately 223,000 adults in Edinburgh currently do not have a will, reflecting a wider UK trend where more than half of adults lack a valid will — often leaving loved ones facing lengthy complications, legal uncertainty and unnecessary stress.

Those who are not married face some of the greatest risks, as partners have no automatic legal rights to inherit, regardless of how long they have been together or whether they share a home or children.

Ralph Sayer will waive its usual will-writing fees, which can range from £400 to £600, meaning the service is free to those using the Will Aid Scheme.

People are encouraged to consider leaving a gift to charity in their will, whether that’s a modest sum equivalent to the usual cost of preparing a will, or a larger legacy that reflects their wishes.

Clients will receive a full one-hour consultation during which their needs, family circumstances and estate structure will be discussed in depth with its Private Client team.

Will Aid, which has been running since 1998, supports eight UK charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, Shelter, SCIAF and Trócaire. The campaign has raised millions over the years through people choosing to leave a gift in their will.

Ivan Ralph, Chief Executive Officer at Ralph Sayer, said: “We offer a personalised service for everyday people. “Whether you’re a new homeowner, part of a blended family, or just haven’t got round to it yet, this is a chance to get something important in place, and know you’ve been properly looked after.

“This is also a simple way to benefit charities doing life-changing work across the UK, not by giving money now, but by considering a gift in your will. Even a small legacy can make a meaningful difference, and for many it’s a chance to leave behind a lasting impact.

“We want people to know that planning ahead doesn’t need to be daunting. Our team is here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.”

Appointments will include a draft will and clear next steps provided by Ralph Sayer, with the opportunity to extend support for more detailed planning if required.

Kimberley added: “Most people are unaware of what should be included in a will, even things like who looks after your pets or who gets sentimental items can become a source of stress.

“For blended families or those with children from previous relationships, it can get really complicated if there’s nothing written down. Those at greatest risk are those who are not in marriages, if anything happens, your partner could be left with nothing.”

Ralph Sayer’s close-knit, family-run team of solicitors, paralegals and estate agents work side by side with a shared goal, to deliver clear, consistent and first-class service to every client.

Since launching in 2022, the firm has been proudly based in Edinburgh while supporting clients all across Scotland, offering trusted insight with a growing reach.

With a reputation for shaking up the market, Ralph Sayer is known for its transparent fees, down-to-earth advice, and refreshingly personal approach.

To learn more about Ralph Sayer, please visit: https://ralphsayer.com/

To find out more or to take part, visit: www.willaid.org.uk

Craigroyston CYFC AGM

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) NOTICE

The Craigroyston CYFC management committee would like to invite you all, to our annual general meeting. It will be held at the club on the 4th of October 2025 at 9.30am. Space will be tight so please arrive in plenty time.

All required info is in the below notice. If anybody has any question regarding the meeting, please reach out via the email address in the notice.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Thanks

Craigroyston CYFC committee

VisitScotland: Making positive connections

TOURISM businesses from Edinburgh and the Lothians are being invited to sign up to an event at which they can do business with global tour operators, travel advisors and Destination Management Companies representing Scotland’s most important visitor markets. 

VisitScotland Connect 2026, supported by Visit Glasgow, will be held for the first time in the city next year at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and registration is open. The event is a key part of the national tourism and event organisation’s activity to drive the visitor economy by increasing Scotland’s share of global tourism.  

More than 50 tourism businesses from Edinburgh and the Lothians attended this year’s event at P&J Live in Aberdeen, where Scottish tourism businesses met with travel intermediaries. These included tour operators and travel agents who plan trips to Scotland for their clients across the globe, including in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the UK domestic market. 

These operators help promote a spread of destinations and can ensure Edinburgh and the Lothians are included in travel itineraries for the coming years and that the holiday offering continues to evolve and fit the demands of the modern traveller.  

VisitScotland’s flagship travel trade event is designed to provide a targeted platform for trade-ready Scottish businesses – including accommodation, experiences and attractions – to connect with domestic and international travel trade buyers. 

Pietro Cecchini, Head of Business Development at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “We are 100% committed to VisitScotland Connect, which lies at the heart of our annual B2B sales and marketing strategy.

“As Scotland’s leading travel trade event, it has proven itself, year after year, to be the most cost-effective platform for delivering annual business growth, by introducing us to prospective new clients, international and domestic, and enabling us to catch up in person with existing partners and friends from across our global tourism network.” 

Claire Dutton, Tourism Officer at East Lothian Council, said: “Scotland Connect provides Visit East Lothian the perfect platform to speak to global travel trade operators including key overseas markets to our area, we were delighted we were able to bring along ten businesses this year who could establish their own connections with the trade.

“We spoke to a number of operators and have provided a range of assistance since the event to those looking to book their trips to East Lothian. It is important we continue to promote East Lothian to the travel trade, and we will definitely be returning next year.” 

New figures* show that this year’s event, which was attended by almost 250 tourism businesses and over 270 travel intermediaries, resulted in bookings worth an estimated £8.6 million to Scotland.   

A survey conducted after the event found that every Scottish tourism business who responded anticipated generating sales for their business as a result of attending. Additionally, 91% of travel trade buyers said they anticipate introducing, expanding, updating or changing their programme or products as a result.  

A total of 8,200 meetings were held – up by 1,200 on 2024 – and 50 of the Scottish tourism businesses who attended the event were new to VisitScotland Connect this year. 

Figures show Scotland welcomed a record number of international visitors in 2024. With half of all overseas visitors booking their trips through tour operators or travel advisors, the event has been credited with helping Scottish suppliers get their experiences and services in front of global audiences. 

In addition to the event in Glasgow, a specially curated programme of familiarisation (fam) trips will be organised to showcase the best of Scotland’s tourism offering. 

Highlighting products with a strong emphasis on sustainability, these fam trips allow travel trade representatives to experience first-hand everything from local culture and food and drink to rail and public transport, luxury and outdoor adventures and wildlife at a variety of different destinations.   

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “VisitScotland Connect is an integral part of our work to help more Scottish tourism and events businesses to internationalise and capitalise on growing international interest. 

“Tourism is vital to Edinburgh and the Lothians, and I would encourage trade-ready tourism businesses in the region to sign up for 2026. 

“According to Scottish Growth Sector Statistics, the total overnight spend by international and domestic visitors to the Edinburgh and Lothians in 2024 was £2.7 billion. This stimulates investment, creates jobs in communities across the region, enhances Scotland’s global reputation, and boosts visitors’ and our own health and wellbeing.  

“This is so important as the industry continues to face challenges as a result of the cost of living and the cost of doing business. 

“I was pleased to see Edinburgh and Lothians tourism businesses attending this year to showcase this unique and captivating region to a global audience.  

“Encouraging visitors to explore the region all year round and to spend more money in our local communities is vital for the sustainable growth of the visitor economy.”  

VisitScotland Connect will be held on 15 and 16 April 2026, at the SEC in Glasgow and is for businesses who are ready to work with travel trade.

Trade-ready Scottish businesses can register to participate via the registration link on the Connect event website.