Significant Post-Launch Boost for Europe’s Largest Surf Park
Jason Connery, filmmaker and son of the legendary Sean Connery, has invested £1 million in Lost Shore Surf Resort, marking a significant post-launch boost for Europe’s largest surf park.
His investment reflects the growing momentum behind the world-class surf destination, which has already welcomed strong visitor numbers since opening a few months ago in Ratho.
Lost Shore Surf Resort, powered by cutting-edge Wavegarden Cove technology, generates up to 1,000 waves per hour and caters to everyone from first-time surfers to elite professionals. More than just a premier surf destination, the resort, with accommodation, restaurants, wellness treatments and sauna facilities is set to deliver a lasting economic impact, creating 130 jobs and contributing more than £20 million annually to the local economy.
Beyond Lost Shore, Jason Connery and Andy Hadden are also collaborating on an exciting new £25m commercial development in Edinburgh aimed at the creative sector. Connery, who co-owns First Stage Studios in Leith with business partner Bob Last, is committed to supporting Scottish enterprise, culture, and innovation through both investment and creative ventures.
Jason Connery said: “Lost Shore Surf Resort is an exciting and ambitious project that brings something truly special to Scotland. It offers incredible opportunities not only for sport and recreation but also for the local economy.
“Andy Hadden’s vision for the resort is inspiring, and I am pleased to support a business that aligns with my passion for Scottish enterprise, sport, and culture. The early success of Lost Shore is a testament to the demand for an attraction like this, and I look forward to seeing its continued impact.”
Lost Shore Surf Resort has been backed by institutional-grade investors, including the Scottish National Investment Bank and Oaknorth Bank, together with a global pension fund and a range of private investors.
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Andy Hadden, Founder of Lost Shore Surf Resort, welcomed the investment, saying: “These funds will help us take the project to the next level. We are thilled to have Jason Connery backing our vision for Lost Shore.
“This investment underlines the potential of inland surf parks not only as world-class sporting destinations but also as drivers of economic growth and community engagement.
“Lost Shore is designed to be more than just a surf park – it is a place where people can come together, experience the thrill of surfing, and enjoy top-tier amenities that make it a true resort experience.”
With surfers coming in their droves, at levels expected within the business plan and ahead of Lost Shore’s first peak Spring and Summer season, it gives great encouragement for the facility to become the UK’s premier sporting and leisure destination.
Join us on Spaceship Earth as Edinburgh Science Festival blasts off from 5 – 20 April
From the depths of sea trenches to the far reaches of outer space; from the beginnings of life in the womb to living forever; from the sound of galaxies to the minibeasts in your garden, the Festival welcomes everyone to explore the theme of Spaceship Earth and how we can all live like astronauts for the good of planet Earth.
Edinburgh Science Festival 2025 delivers a programme which is both down to earth and out of this world, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and science to help us all live ‘like an astronaut’ aboard Spaceship Earth and together create a more sustainable future.
All-star names this year include Professor Richard Dawkins, former NASA astronaut and oceanographer Dr Kathy Sullivan, and Edinburgh-born Director of Community Clothing and judge on the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee Patrick Grant
DiscoveryLab at City Art Centre gives families five floors of hands-on science to get to grips with: the perfect family day out this Easter break.
Guaranteed sell-out every year, Science Nights Out are back with more creative ways to get everyone hands-on with science in a relaxed environment.
The Festival, renowned for its unique presentations of arts colliding with STEM, creating STEAM, delves deep into the worlds of speculative fiction, art exhibitions, sci-fi film screenings and music of the spheres
The Festival takes place all over Edinburgh with events, talks, workshops and exhibitions taking place at the National Museum of Scotland, Dynamic Earth, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and Edinburgh Zoo.
This year’s Festival shows for children 5+ including a baking show that’s out of this world with The Great British Bake Off finalist Josh Smalley.
Edinburgh Science Festival is the first and still one of Europe’s biggest science festivals, taking place over the Easter holidays, between 5 and 20 April.
With the 2025 theme of Spaceship Earth, the Festival continues its years-long commitment to Programming for the Planet. It urges everyone to live like an astronaut, a battle to learn from the constraints of living on a space station where resources are impossibly constrained, and every gram of material and watt of energy is precious.
This year’s theme of Spaceship Earth draws on inspiration from science fiction and science fact, questioning how we might better live on Earth. As scientists begin to ponder the wonders of long-term space travel, the Festival invites visitors to enter the mind of an astronaut as a poignant reminder that resources on earth are finite and that we have the tools to utilise to create a sustainable future for us all.
Edinburgh Science Director and CEO, Hassun El-Zafar said: “It’s a great privilege to welcome guests and visitors, from near and far, to the 2025 Edinburgh Science Festival – my first as Director and CEO.
“For 35 years, Edinburgh Science has been fostering curiosity, discovery, and wonder, and this year continues that tradition. This Spring, we invite you to explore how we can collaborate to build a fairer, more regenerative world – one that preserves and nurtures our Spaceship Earth.
“Our Festival programme showcases an inspiring line-up of distinguished scientists, intrepid explorers, and visionary thinkers, including Richard Dawkins, NASA astronaut Kathy Sullivan, The Great British Sewing Bee’s Patrick Grant, and sustainability expert Mike Berners-Lee. This year also marks the launch of DiscoveryLab, our reimagined family experience at the City Art Centre.
“We hope this year’s festival will spark ideas, ignite passions, and encourage a collective sense of responsibility for the world we share. We are thrilled to share these experiences with you and look forward to the journey ahead aboard our fragile, beautiful vessel, Spaceship Earth.”
Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The Edinburgh Science Festival is an eagerly awaited event – sparking curiosity, showcasing innovation, and celebrating Scotland’s world-leading strengths in science and creativity.
“The Festival makes science accessible to all, while playing a vital role in inspiring young people, supporting STEM learning, and nurturing Scotland’s next generation of scientists.”
City of Edinburgh Council Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Val Walker said: “We are once again excited to support the Edinburgh International Science Festival, which transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of science and technology for all ages.
“Throughout the Festival, our City Art Centre will be a dynamic space filled with family-friendly events, offering five floors of hands-on science for children as young as three. Whether you’re making slime, becoming an animal conservationist, solving a crime scene mystery, or programming your own robot, there’s endless exploration to be had!
“Inspired by both science fiction and science fact, and with the theme Spaceship Earth the jam-packed programme has something for everyone and it’s the perfect way for families to enjoy the Easter holidays together.”
Edinburgh Science is a world expert in producing live science events and the 2025 Festival is the prime example of the power of bringing people together to explore the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering and maths and arts.
The Festival is pleased to continue the fantastic collaboration with the venues around the city, including National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Zoo, the Royal Botanic Gardens, The University of Edinburgh, and Dynamic Earth, each presenting a number of science events for children and adults. This year’s programme is spread across 30 venues and 40% of the offer is free to access.
2025 Highlights
DiscoveryLab, the Festival’s reimagined flagship experience at City Art Centre offers five floors of immersive workshops and activities for children between 3 and 12 years-old and their families to explore. From making your own slime, to becoming an animal conservationist, investigating a crime scene, or programming your own robot, DiscoveryLab is the most fun a family can have this Easter break! DiscoveryLab is supported by Cirrus Logic.
Edinburgh Medal (16 April) is a prestigious award founded by the City of Edinburgh Council in 1989. This year’s Medal’s recipient is Prof Johan Rockström, a scientist internationally recognised for his work on development of the Planetary Boundaries framework. Prof Rockström will be joining this year’s Festival with an address which examines Navigating Humanity’s Future on Earth. The award-winning professor was recognised in TIME100: Most Influential People, his TED talks have over seven million views, and his popular science books Big World, Small Planet, Breaking Boundaries, and The Human Quest encourage a shift toward more sustainable management of planetary resources.
Spaceship Earth, free at the National Museum of Scotland (5 – 20 April),is aninteractive exhibition explores the challenges of living on a planet with finite resources, through the lenses of science fiction and space exploration. Exploring the latest technological advances involving the burgeoning UK space industry, we look Earthwards to consider re-designing everyday life to run on less.
Starry Names
The award-winning author of The Selfish Gene, Prof Richard Dawkins introduces his latest groundbreaking book, The Genetic Book of the Dead (14 April).This is an unforgettable opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading scientific figures and to unlock the door to evolutionary history, seen through wholly new eyes.
In Less with Patrick Grant (5 April), join Director of Community Clothing and BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant in conversation with broadcaster and climate writer Lucy Siegle as they consider the crisis of consumption and quality in fashion.
In Above and Below: An Astronaut’s View of our Planet (5 April), hear firsthand from Dr Kathy Sullivan, both the first American woman to walk in space, and the first woman to visit the deepest spot in the oceans, about her unparalleled experiences as a NASA astronaut and oceanographer, as well as an advisor to Joe Biden.
Every day, Arup works to shape a better world. But, in a rapidly changing environment what does “better” truly mean? Join Dame Jo da Silva, Arup’s Global Director for Sustainable Development, as she explores how we can tackle these changes in Shaping A Better World (17 April).
Get ready to make some noise at an unmissable night of fun, facts and fabulous entertainment with FameLab UK: Scottish Finals (7 April), the ultimate evening of quick-fire science. Scotland’s best new voices in science, technology and engineering will each have just three minutes to convey a scientific concept to you and our expert panel of judges, before a winner is chosen to represent Scotland at the final of FameLab UK.
Climate Change
Scotland has set ambitious targets for achieving net zero carbon emissions, but with 80% of Scottish buildings currently reliant on fossil fuels, how can this be achieved? Join experts in sustainable heating Vital Energi and grassroots movement Clean Heat Edinburgh Forum for a myth-busting discussion at Clean Energy Communities (9 April). In A Climate of Truth (15 April), sustainability expert Mike Berners-Lee looks at the challenge of the climate emergency from new angles and reveals how the need for radically higher standards of honesty in our politics, media, and business is the single most critical point for those seeking change. Researchers from Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI) will showcase our climate change work and together we’ll draw a vision of a thriving future, living with climate change In Decide Your Climate Future (14 April).
How do we ensure that later life is a healthy life? Join Professor of Elderly Care Gillian Mead, Patient and Public Involvement Coordinator Daria Ihnatenko, Senior Lecturer in Global Health Policy Dr Emily Adrion, artificial intelligence expert Prof Jacques Fleuriot and Immunologist Prof Neil Mabbott for an interactive session Who Wants to Live Forever? (7 April). Memory Lane: The perfectly Imperfect Ways We Remember (18 April), psychologists Ciara Greene and Gillian Murphy explore the cutting-edge science of human memory, the ethical implications of memory manipulation and the pitfalls of false recollections. Are sins really moral failings or are they simply important and useful functions that aid us? Join Professor of neurology Guy Leschzinefor Seven Deadly Sins (15 April) as he reveals the hidden science and humanity behind our so-called flaws and follies.
Soon it will be possible to diagnose health conditions such as Alzheimer’s years ahead of time – but would you want to know? A panel of experts put together by the University of St Andrews will come together for Alzheimer’s: To Test or Not to Test (9 April) to discuss the complex, ethical questions that society must face. In Transplanting Hope (10 April) renowned surgeons Prof Richard Smith and Isabel Quiroga share the extraordinary and world-changing story of a 25-year journey which led to the first UK human womb transplant in 2023.
Join women’s health expert and documentary maker Kate Muir in Demystifying the Menopause (13 April), a shame-free discussion fighting the myths and sharing the truth about the perimenopause. Known for her activism and approachable, practical advice, Kate was the Producer for Channel 4’s documentary Davina McCall’s Pill Revolution, investigating contraception chaos. Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine (27 April), at the National Museum of Scotland is a new, free exhibition at that presents the science behind the COVID-19 vaccine and explains the logistics behind its global roll-out. A curator tour with Sophie Goggins, Senior Curator of Biomedical Science, will also take place on the 9 April.
Mosquitoes might be the world’s most dangerous animal, but they are also a cool tool for encouraging an interest in biology. Dr Aidan O’Donnell and Dr Petra Schneider have been awarded the University of Edinburgh’s Tam Dalyell Prize for Excellence in Engaging the Public with Science in recognition of their work to help pupils experience being a scientist and improve teachers’ confidence with STEM. They will present the Tam Dalyell Prize Lecture on 6 April.
The worlds of STEM and arts combine in this year’s programme for a selection of genre-defying events. Hear exclusive first readings at Sci-Fi Futures (8 April), a creative collision of science fiction and science fact, bringing together Scottish writers Martin MacInnes, L R Lam and Eris Young, and Professor of Applied Space Technology and Scotland’s leading space expert Prof Malcolm Macdonald. This exciting collaboration between Edinburgh Science Festival and Edinburgh International Book Festival, commissioned three brand new writings envisioning a utopian future truly living within our means.
Theoretical physicist and industrial musician Prof Bob Coecke is here to open our minds and ears with Quantum Music (10 April). Bob illustrates how the coming quantum revolution can be used to compose new kinds of music and will “play his guitar on a quantum computer”. In The Sound of Galaxies (16 April), an interactive sound-forward session, you’ll listen to galaxy data and gain a deeper appreciation for the innovative ways scientists explore the Universe.
Can arid lands be spaces for new ecological world-making? Desert Future (11 April) is a film screening of Wanuri Kahiu’s Pumzi and discussion explores climate fiction, environmental humanities, history of science and Black/Africana studies.
The Edinburgh Conservation Film Festival (19 April) is a celebration of conservation stories from around the world that will inspire, engage, and inform you about some of the many projects helping to protect the world’s biodiversity.
Enjoy a series of unique and engaging nights out in the city this April with Science Nights Out. Awaken your inner detective at Who Dunit? (8 April) and experience a behind-the-scenes tour of the oldest medical library in Scotland while you delve into the ghastly and most extraordinary world of historic forensic science. Celebrate An Evening of Cosmic Exploration (4 April) at this intergalactic night out that’s just for adults! Choose from a programme of quick-fire talks, interactive experiences, or relax with a drink.
Join expert astronomers at Dynamic Earth’s Planetarium Lates: You are Here (10,11, and 12 April) on a journey and delve deeper into the Universe than ever before. There’s cause for optimism with Planetarium Lates: Don’t Panic! (17, 18 & 19 April) and you can enjoy your favourite science fiction films at Planetarium Lates: Earth from Above (10 – 19 April), including Gravity, Moon, Apollo 13, Star Trek IV, The Martian and Contact.
Brace yourself for an out-of-this-world collision of science and fact, as the doors of the National Museum of Scotland are thrown open for Spaceship Earth After Hours (11 April). At this adults-only event, immerse yourself in the Spaceship Earth exhibition, marvel at new works in a costume show from the Edinburgh College of Art, and ask what it’s really like living on the International Space Station when you meet Turkish Astronaut Alper Gezeravci.
Families
Families this year have plenty to explore at this year’s Festival, including with a special talk from NASA’s Dr Kathy Sullivan with Walk Like An Astronaut (5 April). Specially curated for younger science curious minds, this a family-friendly opportunity to ask an astronaut and eyeball an oceanographer.
At The Ornithopter (5 April), a pioneering step in human powered flight, a visionary creation set to change the course of human history… or maybe it’s just a complete disaster. A celebration of spectacular failure based on the myth of Icarus, this new work-in-progress is an intimate walk-through performance experience. At The Ultimate Bubble Show (5 April) Help Ray, International Bubbleologist (yes, that’s a real job!) and Guinness World Record Holder, on his quest to make… The ultimate bubble! This is chemistry as you’ve never seen it before!
At The Rocket Show (13 April) our backyard scientist discovers what it takes to build a rocket fit for space in this explosive family-friendly adventure. And at Incredible Inventions (6 April) discover how to design your own amazing inventions in this hilarious, interactive show with Blue Peter award-winner, writer and cartoonist Mike Barfield.
Beastlands with Jess French (12 April) will transport you to a magical world full of imaginative creatures with presenter of the BBC’s Minibeast Adventure with Jess and zoologist Jess French.
From hot cross buns to chocolate eggs, chemist and Great British Bake-Off finalist Josh Smalley explores the science behind our Easter treats in The Easter Baking Show (18 April). Josh also presents Mission Bake: From Bake Off to Blast Off (18 April) showcasing the wonders of space through the art of baking.
At the National Museum of Scotland learn how to use Scratch computer programming with a mini LEGO® rover at Code Your Own Mars Mission (11 April), or learn a new language not spoken anywhere in the world at Let’s Grow a Language! (14-17 April). Unleash your creativity at Your Robot Friend (15 April) by designing the robots you want for the future. Meanwhile Eye, Eye Doctor! (16 April) gives you the chance to be an optometrist and uncover the mysteries of how our eyes reflect our overall well-being. Or become an e-waste scavenger and make some amazing robotic musical instruments from upcycled electronic junk at E-Waste Scavengers (19 April).
Free Events for Kids:
At Discover Our Science with The University of Edinburgh (7-10 & 14-17 April) meet scientists and discover what they’re working on in the drop-in space and have a go at being a scientist. Activities will be different each week of the Festival.
Calling all child scientists –the Festival is conducting a survey that aims to understand how children and adults think about conservation and insects, with prizes offered to those who take part in Moral Minds (7-10 April).
There is lots more to enjoy for families across the city at Edinburgh Science Festival partner venues The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh Zoo and Dynamic Earth.
At the Botanic Gardens, highlights include hands-on workshops, Botanic Labs, talks on Plant Power, Botanics Lab, events using LEGO® bricks to explore how plants thrive, and explorations of the incredible Botanics’ Herbarium. More Royal Botanic Garden highlights here.
Families can have a wild day out at Edinburgh Zoo with animal experiences, natural resource workshops and conservation events aimed at all ages. More Edinburgh Zoo highlights here.
At world-class science centre and planetarium Dynamic Earth, families can meet microorganism, marine and sustainability scientists, explore a nature nursery trail, come face to face with some real creepy-crawlies and find their inner palaeontologists. More Dynamic Earth highlights here.
Around the City and beyond
You’ll find Science Festival events all over the city and in some of Scotland’s picturesque coastal towns. Let the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) experts lead you on a free and exciting journey, answering questions on the possibility of life on other planets and the technologies of the future with Family Day in Space (5 April).
Discover Edinburgh’s storied history of theoretical physics in Higgs Theoretical Physics Walking Tour (5,7,12,14 April), a tour which guides you through the nooks and crannies of beautiful Edinburgh, highlighting places associated with extraordinary physicists who have called the Scottish capital home.
At Edinburgh’s Veterinary History (9, 11, 12 April) veterinary Prof Andrew Gardiner and cairn terrier Annie treat you to a creaturely 2km walk exploring the history of veterinary education in Edinburgh and the links between human and veterinary medicine.
Perfect for all ages, dive into hands-on space-themed activities at Wonders of Space Family Festival (11 April) at Archerfield Walled Garden. Be sure to also embark on a captivating tour of the solar system along the Dirleton Solar Walk, stretching from Archerfield Walled Garden to Dirleton Village. Geologists from the Edinburgh Geological Society explore local beaches at Beach Explorers (15-18 April).
At Sustainable Skies (14-18 April), explore the future challenges faced by flight through fun, family activities with a guided tour of the Civil Aviation Hangar to find out more about the future of sustainable flight at the National Museum of Flight.
At DiscoveryLab within City Art Centre, sensory backpacks and ear defenders are available free of charge from the ticketing desk on the ground floor, and there will be a Quiet Space on the third floor where visitors can take a break from the excitement. Although particularly designed for those with autism or sensory needs, these resources are available to everyone.
As in previous years, the Festival presents a series of BSL-interpreted events.
Visit the Festival website for more information on accessibility.
The Green Flag award lets members of the public know that the sites are well run and that they will be able to access a quality, well maintained facility. Having the award creates additional publicity for the park, encouraging new users and increasing the sense of civic pride and ownership in the area.
Visit our Awarded Parks page for recent winners of the Green Flag Award, map of where to find them and case studies.
The benefits of having access to parks and green spaces have been well highlighted, particularly in relation to mental health and well-being, tackling stress and encouraging activity.
Applications for Green Flag Award 2025 are now open!
You will then be able to upload the relevant documents and submit a full application.
Once you have applied for the award we will send you an invoice for the appropriate amount.
Judging
If this is your first application, your park will be visited during April, May or June by two of our volunteer judges. You will need to show them around your park and demonstrate why the park should be awarded a Green Flag. As well as this site visit the judges will also complete an assessment of your management plan and associated documents.
The following year, and every alternative year, a mystery shop visit will be carried out. During the mystery shop one judge will visit your park unannounced and mark it on the criteria. You will be given a copy of the report and you will get the opportunity to make any highlighted improvements.
Cost
There is a cost associated with a Green Flag Award application.
for sites under 20 hectares the application fee is £440 (excl. VAT),
for sites over 20 hectares the application fee is £525 (excl. VAT),
for a Green Site Heritage Accreditation it is an additional £115 (excl. VAT),
and for community groups it is free.
Green Flag Award criteria
Find out more about the eight key criteria applicants must meet to achieve a Green Flag Award.
Meeting the criteria is judged through a desk assessment of a site management plan as well as a visit from our experienced judges.
The two-part documentary series highlights how three missing persons cases led to the capture of a serial killer
BBC Scotland has commissioned Firecrest Films to produce a new two-part series examining the brutal crimes of Scottish serial killer Peter Tobin.
The Hunt for Peter Tobin is the third in the series of the award-winning true crime strand ‘The Hunt for…’ and follows the success of The Hunt for Bible John and The Hunt for the World’s End Killers.
It follows the three separate investigations into young women who had seemingly vanished, and how they eventually revealed the existence of a serial killer targeting young women across the UK for more than three decades.
Vicky Hamilton was waiting for a bus on a snowy winter night in 1991 when the 15-year-old teenager disappeared. Her case became one of Scotland’s biggest missing persons investigations. That summer 18-year-old Dinah McNicol vanished after hitchhiking home from a music festival in Kent. Then, 15 years later, 23-year-old Angelika Kluk went missing in Glasgow in 2006.
The series explores the ripple effects and the strain of their sudden disappearances on their families and friends of having a loved-one suddenly go missing. It includes interviews with family members, detectives, forensic scientists and journalists.
Like the two previous Hunt For… series, The Hunt for Peter Tobin is produced and directed by the multi-award winning team of film-maker Matt Pinder, and editors Audrey McColligan and Dave Clark. The Hunt for Bible John was described by The Guardian as “the best true-crime documentary of the year” and by The Times “as a “chillingly brilliant piece of film-making.”
David Harron, Commissioning Executive, Factual at BBC Scotland says: “This new series has the same distinguishing features to those that have gone before.
“It examines the Police investigations and the relentless pursuit of justice whilst at the same time telling the very real human stories which exist behind the headlines.
“It is this powerful combination, carefully crafted by the team, that makes for compelling viewing.”
Mick McAvoy, Head of Documentaries at Firecrest Films said, “Matt Pinder has once again produced a sensitively crafted series that reveals the brutal impact of a loved one suddenly going missing, while also paying tribute to the strength and compassion of those who devoted their lives to finding the truth about the disappearances.
“In the shadow of the brutal crimes of Peter Tobin, this series will inspire viewers as they see the tireless police work, the efforts of the Missing People charity and the strength of the families of the victims over three decades.”
The Hunt for Peter Tobin will be broadcast on BBC Scotland and BBC iPlayer in March 2025.
Workers back industrial action after offer rejected
GMB Scotland members at Scottish Water have overwhelmingly backed industrial action at the publicly-owned utility.
Industrial action potentially disrupting crucial maintenance and emergency response services was backed by almost 80% of members in a ballot with almost 70% supporting strikes.
Claire Greer, GMB Scotland organiser, said the crushing majority in support of industrial action was not surprising after a 3.4% pay offer was overwhelmingly rejected by staff.
She said: “Our members are again being forced to fight for a fair pay rise from a company where the top executives are taking home record bonus payments.
“The overwhelming support for industrial action is no surprise to our members and, given the failure to negotiate a fair offer, should come as no surprise to the company.”
The ballot of GMB Scotland members closed on Monday with a 61% turnout and 67% of members backing strike action and 77% backing industrial action short of strikes.
GMB Scotland and sister unions will meet today to detail plans before giving Scottish Water two weeks’ notice of action if there is no agreement.
The dispute comes 18 months after a rolling programme of industrial action, including strikes and overtime bans, disrupted emergency repairs, testing and maintenance at Scottish Water.
Unions had accused the publicly-owned company of behaving “like a rogue employer” for linking a pay offer to a restructuring of grades and salaries.
Scottish Secretary confirms £2.6 million for V&A Dundee – investment on top of £20 million for Dundee regeneration projects
V&A Dundee is to receive £2.6 million in UK Government capital funding. The investment, to remodel and extend the Scottish Design Galleries, was announced yesterday by the Scottish Secretary on a visit to Scotland’s design museum.
Speaking after his visit, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “It’s fantastic news that the UK Government is investing £2.6 million in V&A Dundee. It is a great attraction, right at the heart of Dundee’s waterfront, bringing great benefits to the city. This funding will help the museum celebrate the very best of Scottish design and make the experience for visitors even better.
“We have taken the necessary steps to mend our public finances in order to provide this funding and a record settlement for the Scottish Government, and I am very pleased that we are delivering this investment in this important national institution.
“At the Autumn Budget the Chancellor also confirmed £20 million for regeneration and growth projects in Dundee. In all, the UK Government is investing £1.4 billion in dozens of important local growth projects across Scotland over the next 10 years. This is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, growing our economy and improving living standards in all parts of the UK.”
Director of V&A Dundee, Leonie Bell, said: “We are delighted the UK Government has confirmed £2.6 million of funding for V&A Dundee, Scotland’s design museum, to undertake a bold transformation of the Scottish Design Galleries that will bring design to life for visitors, enabling even more people to engage with Scotland’s innovative design history and its continuing influence around the world.
“V&A Dundee is an incredible resource for people living in Dundee and Scotland, drawing visitors to the region, championing design and designers and helping to change the face of the city and contributing to economic, cultural and social growth.
“This new funding means we can expand the story of design from Scotland and celebrate the worldwide influence of Scottish design and designers, further enhancing the visitor experience at V&A Dundee.”
The Scottish Design Galleries are the heart of V&A Dundee. They feature more than 300 objects spanning around 500 years, telling the story of Scottish design’s enduring influence around the world. This additional investment, ahead of the museum’s 10-year anniversary in 2028, will help V&A Dundee boost its contribution to local economic growth, supporting jobs and driving visitors to Tayside.
In 2023 Dundee welcomed 1.35 million visits, an increase of more 50 per cent since before V&A Dundee opened. V&A Dundee is engaging with every school in the city and welcomed its two millionth visitor in 2024. The museum has created very significant economic impacts for the city.
NSPCC sends letter to Home Secretary and DSIT Secretary of State urging action to strengthen Ofcom’s current approach to private messaging.
Other signatories include Barnardo’s and the Marie Collins Foundation
The NSPCC is urging the UK Government to ensure children are better protected in private messaging environments, as Scottish Government data reveals that 3,419 child sexual abuse crimes have been recorded by Police Scotland since 2019.
In the last two years they have reached record levels, with more than 700 offences being logged each year (748 in 2023/24 and 765 in 2022/23).
A separate Freedom of Information request submitted to police forces across the UK by the NSPCC showed that where law enforcement recorded the platform used by perpetrators, exactly half (50%) took place on Snapchat and a quarter on Meta products – 11% on Instagram, 7% on Facebook and 6% on WhatsApp[1].
In response, a joint letter from charities, including the NSPCC, Marie Collins Foundation, Lucy Faithfull Foundation, Centre of expertise on child sexual abuse, and Barnardo’s, has been sent to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology Peter Kyle.
The letter expresses collective concern regarding Ofcom’s final Illegal Harms Code of Practice published in December 2024. The charities argue that as it stands, children will not be protected from the worst forms of abuse on private messaging services under Ofcom’s plans, despite this being a core aim of the Online Safety Act.
Ofcom has stated that user-to-user services are only required to remove illegal content where it is ‘technically feasible’. This exception creates an unacceptable loophole, allowing some services to avoid delivering the most basic protections for children.
Data from police forces on the number of recorded offences where the platform was known indicates private messaging sites are involved in more crimes than any other type of platform, with perpetrators exploiting the secrecy offered by these spaces to harm children and go undetected.
The NSPCC wants the UK Government to push Ofcom to review and strengthen their most recent codes of practice on tackling this threat to children’s safety online.
The charity is also calling for private messaging services, including those using end-to-end encryption, to make sure there are robust safeguards in place to ensure their platforms do not act as a ‘safe haven’ for perpetrators of child sexual abuse.
End-to-end encryption is a secure communication system where only communicating users can participate. This means that service providers can be blinded to child sexual abuse material being shared through their platform.
Aoife, 21, from East Kilbride, an NSPCC Lived Experience Advocate, has shared her advice to any children who experience online harms.
Aoife was exploited online when she was 15 by a man, she met online on Yubo. He pretended to be a teenager around her age and convinced her to download another app, Telegram, and then asked her to send him images of herself. Then he blackmailed her with these, threatening to share them with all her friends and family on Facebook, to control her behaviour.
When his demands became increasingly intense and frightening, Aoife recalled being told about the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) at school and reported the images. Through this, her school and then her parents were informed and supported her with reporting what happened to the police. The perpetrator was eventually sentenced in 2022 following an investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA).
She said: “If a young person is asked to share an explicit image of themselves with someone online, I would say don’t do it! You might want to and think you know what you are doing, and that you’ll be safe but if you met them online you don’t know who that person is. For all you know they could be the opposite of who they say they are, so I would say – just don’t do it. It’s not worth the risk.
“If a young person has shared an image and they are being threatened tell someone you trust whether that’s a parent, teacher or neighbour because they will look out for you and help.
“I would also say to anyone who experiences this – it’s not your fault. You are the victim. You might be thinking how could I be so silly and put myself in this position but when you are young it’s perfectly normal to make mistakes – you’re still learning – so don’t be hard on yourself. You have been taken advantage of, and they are to blame, not you.”
Insight from NSPCC counselling service, Childline, provides further evidence of how young people are being targeted or blackmailed to share child abuse images via the calculated use of private messaging apps.
Last year, Childline delivered 903 counselling sessions to children and young people relating to blackmail or threats to expose or share sexual images online. This was a 7% increase compared to 2022/23.
Chris Sherwood, NSPCC Chief Executive, said:“It is deeply alarming to see thousands of child sexual abuse image crimes recorded by Police Scotland in the past five years. These offences cause tremendous harm and distress to children, with much of this illegal material being repeatedly shared and viewed online. It is an outrage that in 2025 we are still seeing a blatant disregard from tech companies to prevent this illegal content from proliferating on their sites.
“Having separate rules for private messaging services lets tech bosses off the hook from putting robust protections for children in place.
“This enables crimes to continue to flourish on their platforms even though we now have the Online Safety Act.
“The Government must set out how they will take a bold stand against abuse on private messaging services and hold tech companies accountable for keeping children safe, even if it requires changes to the platform’s design – there can be no excuse for inaction or delay. “
Special offers revealed for over 50 city-centre restaurants, cafes and bars taking part in the festival
Eat Out Edinburgh, the highly anticipated city-centre restaurant festival run by Essential Edinburgh, today reveals the full list of incredible dining offers running throughout March.
This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of over 50 top restaurants, cafes and bars, featuring exclusive deals, curated set menus, and the introduction of a brand-new supper club series as a first for this year’s festival.
Diners can now explore the special offers live online at www.eatoutedinburgh.com, with deals from some of Edinburgh’s best-loved venues from Princes Street and Charlotte Square to St James Quarter – all designed to showcase the city centre’s vibrant hospitality scene.
With a wave of exciting new restaurant openings in the capital, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh welcomes several first-time participants, bringing fresh flavours and experiences to the festival, including:
Dishoom: Enjoy a special Bombay-inspired menu for £29 per person, including dishes like Tandoori Chaat, Goan Monkfish Curry, and Makhmali Paneer.
Roxy Lanes: Perfect for a midweek catch-up, offering 20% off food Sunday through Thursday – grab a bite and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The Botanist: Whether you’re in the mood for two courses (£20) or three (£25), The Botanist offers an incredible deal Monday to Thursday throughout March.
Manahatta: Bringing the big city buzz to Edinburgh, the NYC inspired venue is offering two courses for £15 or three for £20, valid Monday – Friday throughout March.
The Court: In the heart of The Caledonian Edinburgh, discover a seasonally-inspired selection of dishes with a delicious three course lunch menu, showcasing the best of local, Scottish produce for just £29.
SUSHISAMBA: The Samba Express menu brings together the bold and vibrant flavours of Japan, Brazil, and Peru for an unforgettable dining journey, offering two courses for just £25 or three courses for £30.
Le Petit Beefbar: Offering Eat Out Edinburgh diners an exclusive 20% off, a set-lunch menu is available Monday to Thursday featuring everything from their famous rock corn to the classic steak frites. Now we’re offering Eat Out Edinburgh guests an exclusive 20% off.
Returning favourites such as Chaophraya, Lady Libertine, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, Duck & Waffle, and BABA among many others have also unveiled exclusive menus and special offers available to book now, ensuring there’s something for every taste, budget and occasion throughout the month.
This year introduces a new highlight: a series of intimate supper clubs bookending the festival offering food lovers a unique opportunity to enjoy exclusive dining experiences in a social setting, hosted by hot-ticket venues Hawksmoor and Dean Banks at the Pompadour.
Kickstarting the festival on the 6th of March, Hawksmoor Edinburgh will host a special evening celebrating British seasonal produce, featuring a three-course sharing menu with wine, set within the stunning McLellan Room.
Guests will be welcomed with a Portobello Road Gin cocktail before indulging in a showcase of the Hawksmoor classics served family style – including a selection of their signature prime meats – and walk away with a box of the restaurant’s ‘Tributes’ salted caramel chocolates, as a sweet reminder of the evening. Tickets are available to book now at just £75 per person.
Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme
Bringing the festival to a spectacular close, Dean Banks at The Pompadour will offer their own supper club with an unforgettable seven-course tasting menu on 27th March, available at an incredible 50% discount for just £65 per person.
Hosted in the venue’s stunning private room within the Caledonian Edinburgh, Chef Banks himself will walk guests through each course, celebrating Scotland’s best produce of the season.
Tickets are available to book now. Guests are encouraged to book their spot for both events soon through the Eat Out Edinburgh website, as spots are limited to these exclusive evenings.
Following the success of Eat Out Edinburgh 2024, which saw a 9.2% increase in hospitality sales and over 18,700 bookings for city centre venues, this year’s campaign is set to be even bigger. The initiative encourages locals, visitors, and city centre workers to explore and support Edinburgh’s dynamic food and drink scene.
Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme
Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Essential Edinburgh, said: “With so many exciting new venues opening in the city centre, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh is set to be our most diverse and engaging yet.
“The addition of supper clubs will bring a whole new level of exclusivity and experience for diners. Whether you’re discovering a new favourite spot or revisiting a beloved classic, March is the perfect time to celebrate Edinburgh’s incredible hospitality scene.”
A full list of participating venues and offers is available at
DLA Piper returns to 2025 with more rewarding network events for next generation professionals following resounding success last year. This latest event is taking place on 26 February in Edinburgh.
Upcoming Professionals (UP) is a first of its kind, bespoke initiative developed by DLA Piper dedicated to supporting the next generation of professionals in the Scotland marketplace across all business sectors.
Relaunched early last year, UP has been acclaimed by business leaders across Scotland with market feedback indicating its significant positive impact on the professional community in Scotland.
Simon Rae DLA Piper’s Managing Partner in Scotland, said:“We recognise next generation professionals are key in driving success in the business place – now and in the future.
“Our UP initiative provides an excellent opportunity for young professionals to share ideas and best practices with key players in the industry, aiming to build their experience and confidence in developing business.
“The network is leading the way in supporting the young professionals of Scotland and is committed to furthering the already vibrant and dynamic business community. I strongly encourage those at the early stage of their career to engage with and leverage UP to experience the benefits themselves.”
For more information about DLA Piper’s UP network and the first 2025 event in Edinburgh contact angela.saunders@dlapiper.com in the first instance.
We are looking for new trustees to help LifeCare in its great work supporting local people
LifeCare is a forward-thinking growing charity established in 1941, that supports people 50+ across Edinburgh through a wide range of community-based support services, alongside running a community Café and Hub which is open to the public. We employ over 80 staff and are supported by a diverse range of volunteers.
“I’ve noticed a difference since LifeCare’s visits started. When I call Dad, he is more upbeat and chattier than he has been in ages.”
Our Board of Trustees is made up of up to 12 amazing people who give up their time to benefit the organisation and those we support by sharing their own skills, knowledge and experiences to provide our governance and leadership.
As a board we routinely audit our skills, and we are currently seeking two new Board Members who could bring expertise in any of the following areas to our organisation:
• Communications and/or Marketing
• Venue/centre management or hospitality
• Lived experience as an unpaid carer to an older person
• Running a Social Enterprise
The role is non-remunerated however expenses will be reimbursed, and training/ongoing support will be provided. The board usually meets early evening either in person or online.
to see if this is you and, if so, complete the potential trustee form explaining how your skills and experience could benefit LifeCare – and email this to:
