And our programme is LIVE! 
We are excited to share with you this year’s free performances, workshops, talks and activities – including our wonderful art installations (and of course our many fabulous stalls during the day)!
We are really looking forward to seeing you all there, keep an eye out for further info and easy read versions being released soon! 
Indicates activities and areas that are estimated to have a higher noise level
A new National Audit Office (NAO) report examines the progress and evidence underlying the costed proposals for the programme to restore and renew the Palace of Westminster (the Palace) and assesses them against established practice to determine whether the programme is currently set up for success.
The Palace, a Grade I listed building within a UNESCO World Heritage site, requires extensive restoration to address serious risks, including failing mechanical and electrical systems, fire safety issues and high levels of asbestos.
The Restoration and Renewal Programme (the Programme) is intended to address these concerns.
The Programme is now at a critical stage, with parliamentary approval being sought to reduce the number of options from four to two.
The two recommended options are:
Building on its previous work, this new report by the independent public spending watchdog finds that further delaying the decision on which option to pursue carries risks to achieving value for money, with each year of delay adding between £320 million to £420 million to the overall cost of delivering the Programme.
Although the options and their underlying estimates have been through a standard process of development and have been subject to internal and external checks to examine and assure them, all are at an early stage and are likely to face cost and schedule pressures as designs develop.
The costed proposals provide enough information for a decision, although the EMI options are less developed and more uncertain.
The proposals also recommend that Parliament approves an initial seven-year programme of ‘Phase One’ enabling works capped at £3 billion.
Undertaking these works is a sensible approach, as this allows the Programme to progress while managing several risks. But plans for how the works will be overseen and delivered need to be finalised.
Suitable temporary accommodation is essential if the Houses are to decant and Parliament is to function properly. All Programme options depend on this accommodation being ready on time, but current risks could delay the move, particularly the full decant option.
The Programme must also strengthen its governance arrangements to be able to bear down on cost, schedule and scope; manage interdependencies across the Programme; and support Parliament’s decision on the final delivery option.
To put the Programme on a stronger footing, the NAO recommends that the responsible delivery teams:
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, Chair of the Committee of Public Accounts, said: “Today’s NAO report on the Restoration and Renewal of the Palace of Westminster provides valuable information to parliamentarians on the costs of the proposals and the significant decisions they will need to make.
“This project will affect the working lives of parliamentarians and staff for many decades to come. It is therefore vital that they are provided with comprehensive and accurate information in advance of a parliamentary vote, so that they can reach an informed judgement on this important matter.”
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is inviting members of the public to share their memories of Edinburgh Zoo as part of its 110th anniversary celebrations, helping to preserve the stories that have made the zoo a cherished part of Scottish life since it first opened in 1913.
Among them is Karen Stiven, who has recently retired after 45 years at RZSS. Joining the zoo in 1981, Karen dedicated her career to caring for a number of animals from birds to hoofstock and became one of the zoo’s longest-serving keepers.
Now retired from her role as Experienced Keeper, Karen has witnessed decades of change at Edinburgh Zoo. One of her fondest memories is hand-rearing a young hippo, Cleo, a challenge that involved sleepless nights and round the clock care. Seeing the calf grow and thrive made all the hard work worthwhile and remains one of Karen’s most treasured memories.
Karen believes preserving the zoo’s history is just as important as creating new memories for future generations. She said: “Having these archives is a huge achievement.
“They allow people to look back and see where everything started, how much has changed and how far we’ve come.
“The stories are incredibly important and I hope people continue adding their own memories so future generations can do the same for many years to come.”
The appeal comes as RZSS continues to uncover and preserve stories from across its history. While archive collections contain official records and photographs, the charity says some of the most valuable insights come from the personal memories of people who have visited, worked at or supported Edinburgh Zoo over the years.
David Field, CEO of RZSS, said: “Karen’s story is a wonderful example of the memories that make Edinburgh Zoo so special. After 45 years of dedication, she has been part of countless moments that have shaped the zoo’s history.
“Karen’s story is just one of thousands and for 110 years, Edinburgh Zoo has played a part in the lives of people across Scotland and beyond.
“We know there are an abundance of family photographs, favourite animal encounters, school trip memories and personal stories waiting to be shared, and we would love to hear them. Every memory helps us build a clearer picture of our past and preserve it for future generations.”
Members of the public can share photographs, souvenirs and other memorabilia with the team as part of Memories Week running from 13 – 21 June, helping ensure the next chapter of Edinburgh Zoo’s story is recorded alongside the first 110 years.
McGill’s Buses is getting behind Scotland’s World Cup heroes by temporarily rebranding one of its electric buses as ‘McGinn’s’ in tribute to midfield favourite John McGinn.
The specially branded Yutong E12 electric bus will take to the streets with a playful twist on the McGill’s name, celebrating Scotland’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup and paying tribute to one of the national team’s most recognisable and much-loved players.
The one-off rebrand comes as excitement builds across the country ahead of Scotland’s return to football’s biggest stage, with John McGinn’s passion, personality and commitment making him a firm favourite with the Tartan Army.
The ‘McGinn’s’ bus will operate on the McGill’s N6 service, giving fans the chance to spot it on the road as World Cup fever gathers pace.
Colin Napier, Group Service Delivery Director, said: “Scotland reaching the World Cup is something the whole country can celebrate, and we wanted to mark the occasion in a way that would get people smiling.
“John McGinn has become one of the real faces of this Scotland team. He plays with heart, humour and total commitment, so turning one of our buses into ‘McGinn’s’ felt like the perfect tribute.
“We are proud to back Scotland and we hope the bus helps spread a bit of excitement as supporters get ready for what promises to be a brilliant summer.”
With Scotland’s matches set to bring late nights for supporters, McGill’s is also going the extra mile to help fans get home safely after cheering on the national team.
The operator has confirmed enhanced NightBus services during Scotland’s World Cup fixtures, with additional journeys and later departures on key routes to support fans travelling to and from pubs, clubs and city centres for the big matches.
Services including the N3, N4, N6, N26, N38 and N60 will see extra late-night journeys, helping keep supporters moving long after the final whistle as Scotland chase World Cup glory.
Stephen McGinn, former professional footballer and brother of John McGinn, said: “John would probably be equal parts proud and embarrassed to see a bus named after him, but it is brilliant and sums up the excitement everyone is feeling about Scotland getting to the World Cup.
“He has always given absolutely everything for Scotland and the support from fans means a huge amount to him and the players.
“Seeing ‘McGinn’s’ out on the road is a great bit of fun and hopefully it helps build even more excitement as we all get behind the team.”
Fans are encouraged to keep an eye out for the ‘McGinn’s’ Yutong E12 on the road and to follow McGill’s social media channels for updates on NightBus services during Scotland’s World Cup campaign.
SAVE THE DATE!
Join Spirit Song Choir and Friends for an unforgettable evening of soulful music and uplifting vibes at St Vincent’s Chapel, Stockbridge, on Saturday 27 June, in support of the Hospice.
Featuring the internationally travelled Spiritsong Choir from Canada and the USA, this special concert marks the final night of their very first tour of Scotland. Expect an inspiring celebration of community, friendship, and music. 
This event is FREE and there will be a collection for the Hospice on the night, save your seat here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/spiritsong-choir-and…
Thousands of young people in Scotland are to be offered free vaccination against meningococcal B disease (MenB) ahead of the 2026-27 academic year.
Meningococcal disease, which can include meningitis and/or septicaemia, is life-threatening and can result in life-changing disabilities including amputations, hearing loss, and brain damage. It is fatal in around 10% of cases.
The transition to university or college – particularly into shared accommodation – is one of the highest-risk periods for the disease, as close contact with large numbers of new people increases the risk of it spreading.
The programme will start in July 2026 and two doses are essential for full protection. It is open to:
Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Protecting the health of young people in Scotland is an absolute priority.
“We know that starting university or college – especially moving into shared accommodation – is one of the highest-risk periods for this disease, and we are acting now, ahead of the new academic year, following recent outbreaks.
“The MenB vaccine has a strong safety record and the evidence is clear that it works. I want every eligible young person in Scotland to come forward for both doses and take this important step to protect their health as they begin what is for many of them an exciting new chapter in their lives.”
Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Gregor Smith said: “MenB can spread rapidly in shared living environments and can lead to serious disease.
“This targeted programme offers strong protection to those most at risk, and I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer, especially if you are heading to university or college for the first time.”
Further updates will provide more detail on how eligible people can take up the offer.
Police Scotland has released a CCTV image of a man who they believe may be able to assist them with their enquires into a serious assault on Lower Granton Road, Edinburgh.
The incident happened around 4.30pm on Saturday, 16 May, 2026. The man is described as white, 6ft in height, of heavy build, aged 40-50 years-old and bald.
Detective Sergeant Keith Morrison said: “We would ask the man in the image, or anyone who recognises him, to contact us as soon as possible.”
Anyone who has information that may assist with this investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 2173 of Saturday, 16 May, 2026. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
I am writing in the hope that your newspaper can help raise awareness of the difficulties facing Fair Price Supermarket at Drylaw Shopping Centre, a business that has been at the heart of our community for decades.
For more than 50 years, Fair Price was run by Mohammad Shahid, a well-loved and highly respected member of the local community. Mohammad Shahid was far more than a shopkeeper. He was a friend to many, always ready with a warm welcome, a kind word, and a smile. Generations of local families knew him and valued the service, care, and sense of community he brought to Drylaw.
Sadly, My father passed away just over a year ago after a short illness while visiting family members in Pakistan. His death came as a great shock to those who knew him, and the loss is still being felt deeply throughout the area.
In fact, some customers are only now discovering the sad news. Many have spoken of how heartbreaking it is to walk into the shop and not see my father’s familiar smiling face behind the counter, greeting them as he had done for so many years. Some have even found it too emotional to return, such was the affection and respect they had for him.
Despite their grief, me and my family have worked tirelessly to keep the business running and preserve the legacy he built over half a century. They continue to serve the community with the same dedication and commitment that he showed every day of his working life.
Now, however, the business faces another challenge. The ongoing construction of zebra crossings within the shopping centre’s parking area has caused disruption and reduced accessibility for customers.
Many local people feel these works are unnecessary and fear they could have a damaging impact on the businesses that rely on convenient access and passing trade.
At a time when Fair Price is still adjusting to the loss of its founder, this additional disruption could not have come at a worse time.
I would like to appeal directly to the local community. If Mohammad Shahid ever served you, helped you, or brightened your day with his smile and kindness, please consider supporting the business he devoted his life to building.
Every visit and every purchase helps. It would be a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to this community if local residents rallied around Fair Price and helped ensure that his legacy continues for future generations.
Fair Price has supported Drylaw for over 50 years. Now it is our turn to support Fair Price.
I hope your newspaper will help tell Mohammad’s story and encourage readers to stand behind this treasured local business during a difficult period.
Donate to Honouring Mohammad Shahid- Support Fair Price Supermarket , organized by Khadijah Khurram
Yours faithfully,
Khadijah( Concerned Daughter)
Muirhouse Community Greenspace Stage 2 Consultation
Friday 19th June 2026 10am – 2pm
at North Edinburgh Arts Centre
All Welcome
Terror at Conifox Scream Park in Edinburgh expands to six nights with four immersive scare mazes, live entertainment, fireworks and a brand-new attraction this October.
Following a completely sold-out season in 2025, Terror at Conifox Scream Park is returning this October with its biggest and most intense experience yet.
Located just 15 minutes from Edinburgh city centre, the immersive horror experience has quickly established itself as one of Edinburgh’s most intense Halloween horror events, attracting thrill-seekers from across Scotland looking for something far darker than the traditional haunted house.
After selling out every available ticket last year, Terror is expanding for 2026 with two additional event nights, an all-new scare maze, live entertainment, Fast Track tickets and even more immersive experiences throughout the site.
For the first time ever, Terror will run across six nights, giving even more horror fans the opportunity to experience the fear.
Guests will come face-to-face with four immersive scare mazes, including an all-new attraction created exclusively for 2026. Returning favourites include the twisted Sadistic Circus, where distorted laughter echoes through a maze of disfigured clowns and warped funhouse corridors; Blackout, a pitch-black descent into the Butcher’s slaughterhouse where fear takes over your senses; and Redneck Rampage, a backwoods nightmare where Tucker and his blood-soaked family are always hunting for their next victim. Organisers are keeping details of the fourth maze tightly under wraps, with a terrifying new nightmare set to be unleashed this October.
While details remain tightly under wraps, organisers promise a brand-new nightmare waiting behind the doors this October.
“We were blown away by the response to Terror in 2025,” said James Gammell, Managing Director of Terror at Conifox Scream Park.
“To see the event sell out completely in its first year was incredible. The feedback we received from guests was fantastic and it was clear people wanted more.
“For 2026 we’ve gone bigger in every sense. We’ve added two extra nights, created an all-new maze, introduced Fast Track tickets and expanded the overall experience to make it more immersive than ever before.
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome guests back this October and if last year’s demand was anything to go by, we’d encourage people to book early.”
Guests attending Terror 2026 will enjoy:
Available at an additional cost:
• Taylor’s of Edinburgh Funfair rides
• Food vendors
• Event bar
New for 2026, guests can choose a Fast Track ticket, providing one priority entry per maze across all four immersive scare mazes, with unlimited regular maze access then available throughout the evening.
For the first time, Terror will also welcome guests aged 16 and over, opening the experience to an even wider audience of horror fans.
First to Fear tickets go on sale on Thursday 19th June and will be available for a limited time with 15% off standard ticket prices.
With the 2025 event selling out completely, organisers are encouraging guests to secure tickets early to avoid disappointment.
No map. No mercy. Just pure Terror.
Will you survive?
🎟️ Tickets and full event information:
www.terrorscreampark.co.uk
16+ only. You’ve been warned.
