Whooping cough is serious. The first symptoms include a runny nose, red and watery eyes, a sore throat and a slightly raised temperature. For more information on the signs and symptoms of whooping cough, visit http://nhsinform.scot/whoopingcoughsymptoms
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Code Concepts, the Edinburgh-based hospitality operator known for its boutique hotels and urban hostels, announces the future opening of The Bindery, a new design-led boutique hotel in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Construction is set to begin on 20 October 2026, with an expected opening in Q1 2027.
The Bindery will occupy the historic Stewart House Book Bindery, offering 84 private rooms including a mix of double, twin, and family rooms, across approximately 24,000 sq ft. Located on Thistle Street Lane, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s golden rectangle and surrounded by some of the city’s finest boutique restaurants, The Bindery will offer premium accommodation alongside a dynamic ground-floor experience.
Guests and locals alike will be able to enjoy a bar, daily food menu, co-working spaces, and flexible event areas, creating a vibrant community hub at the centre of the city. These offerings will be open to both guests and locals, creating a vibrant community hub.
The hotel’s interior has been crafted by award-winning design studio a-nrd, blending contemporary design with a nod to the building’s bookbinding heritage.
The interiors will feature a refined loft aesthetic with exposed features, a mix of vintage and modern furniture, bespoke detailing, and subtle references to the building’s historic past.
The soothing, nature-inspired colour palette draws from the landscapes surrounding Edinburgh, creating a homely yet sophisticated atmosphere for guests.
Sustainability is central to The Bindery’s design, with smart, demand-driven systems set to optimise energy use throughout the building. An all-electric heating and cooling system, intelligent ventilation with heat recovery, and a central management system will minimise waste and maximise efficiency.
Native planting in the rear garden will support biodiversity, while local supplier partnerships and a walkable city-centre location will further reduce the hotel’s environmental impact.
The Bindery marks Code Concepts’ desire to grow into the boutique hotel segment, expanding beyond its capsule hostels into a more premium market.
“With The Bindery, we are responding to the growing demand for unique, design-led hospitality in Edinburgh,” said Andrew Landsburgh, CEO of Code Concepts.
“We are creating more than just rooms, with a focus on an exciting F&B offer, flexible spaces, events, and partnerships with local businesses will differentiate us in a highly competitive market.”
Edinburgh continues to see strong growth in tourism and hospitality, attracting both domestic and international travellers. With increasing competition in the city, hotels must offer distinctive experiences to stand out.
The Bindery’s combination of unique design, community-focused events, and collaboration with local suppliers positions it as a compelling choice for modern, digitally savvy travellers seeking authentic, curated stays.
ST JAMES QUARTER UNVEILS A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS 2025 PROGRAMME
From dazzling parades to hands-on festive fun, the Capital’s most stylish Christmas celebration returns bigger and brighter than ever.
St James Quarter, Edinburgh, is set to sparkle once again this festive season with a showstopping Christmas Programme for 2025 – from a spectacular light switch-on with starry performances, family-friendly experiences, and festive magic on every level.
The St James Quarter Christmas Parade returns again this year – bigger, brighter, and more spectacular than ever.
On Saturday, 8th November, from 4pm, the Galleria will come alive with a joyous celebration of colour, music, dance, and performance, featuring wandering musicians, graceful ballerinas, energetic street-style dancers and, of course, a very stylish Santa making his entrance in true St James Quarter STYLE.
Adding an extra touch of sparkle, Santa will be touring the City in a St James Quarter taxi, inviting Edinburgh locals to join him on his journey to the Quarter before leading the crowds to Register Square for a spectacular finale – a magical light switch-on and Christmas sing-along led by Community favourites, Tinderbox Orchestra, who will be joined by some surprise guests.
From traditional carols to contemporary hip-hop beats, the evening promises an unforgettable fusion of sound and celebration, creating a free, family-friendly night for residents and visitors alike.
The Tinderbox Orchestra, renowned for redefining what an orchestra can be, will fill the Quarter with the sound of Christmas. Combining rappers, singers, strings, brass, and drums, their performances bring together some of Scotland’s most dynamic musicians, delivering unexpected melodies and boundless festive energy.
Families can also look forward to the return of Elf Adventures on Sunday, 16th November and Sunday, 7th December, from 11am to 3pm at the Santa Express on Level 3. Little ones can learn how to be Santa’s little helpers through playful drop-in sessions, including Elf School (age 3+), where they’ll tackle an elf agility course, ; Reindeer Food Making (age 3+), where they can craft their own magical oats to sprinkle outside their homes on Christmas Eve; and Storytime sessions (age 0+), where little ones can settle in for cosy, interactive storytelling with Santa’s elves. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and there’s no need to book in advance.
For those feeling inspired by the sounds of the season, the Tinderbox Orchestra will host a day of interactive music workshops on Sunday, 30th November, from 10:30am to 6pm.
Ticketed via the St James Quarter App, these sessions offer the chance to try an instrument, play alongside the 20-piece orchestra, and even write and perform your own Christmas song.
Open to all ages and abilities, the workshops are a unique opportunity to join one of Scotland’s most exciting musical collectives for a day of festive creativity and collaboration.
Throughout the season, visitors can continue to enjoy the festive spirit across the Quarter. The Santa Express will offer a magical interactive photo opportunity on Level 3, while the Present Tree, in partnership with St James Quarter charity partner Children’s First, will encourage guests to donate gifts and spread goodwill to those in need.
Pop-up choir and dance performances will fill the Galleria with music and movement, and with bars and restaurants open until late and extended retail hours from 16th November, guests can shop, dine, and celebrate long into the evening.
Susan Hewlett, Brand Director at St James Quarter, said: “Christmas at St James Quarter is always something special, and this year we’re pulling out all the stops to make it our most magical celebration yet.
“From the dazzling parade and spectacular light switch-on to the creative energy of the Tinderbox Orchestra and the joyful return of Elf Adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
“We can’t wait to welcome Edinburgh’s residents and visitors to experience the wonder, warmth and togetherness that makes this time of year so special in the heart of the city.”
Whether singing under the lights, dancing to the beat of the Tinderbox Orchestra, or watching little ones graduate from Elf School, St James Quarter is set to be Edinburgh’s ultimate destination for Christmas magic in 2025.
For more information, please visit:
A new Bill to regulate some of the most commonly performed non-surgical procedures has been published by the Scottish Parliament.
If passed by parliament, the Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill will regulate the provision of certain non-surgical cosmetic and wellbeing procedures to ensure they are carried out in appropriate settings which can meet standards of safety and hygiene.
It will create new offences for providing non-surgical procedures outwith premises where appropriate healthcare professionals are available or to under 18s. It will also give Healthcare Improvement Scotland new powers to enter and search premises where there is a suspicion that these procedures are being carried out in breach of these offenses.
The Bill covers cosmetic and wellbeing procedures, such as Botox injections and dermal fillers, and some of the riskiest including ‘Brazilian Butt Lifts’ and thread lifts. The Bill follows a consultation carried out in 2020, which found 98% of respondents supported the principle of further regulation of procedures led by those who are not qualified healthcare professionals.
Businesses seeking guidance on adapting to the requirements of the Bill will be able to access free support through Business Gateway.
Additionally, FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot offers a comprehensive overview of funding opportunities, helping them navigate to change.
Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, Jenni Minto said: “Our aim is to ensure there is robust and proportionate regulation in place so that anyone who chooses to have these procedures can do so safely.
“We have worked with a range of stakeholders including business owners, healthcare professionals, non-healthcare practitioners, environmental health officers and professional regulators to develop our proposals.
“Our priority is to address the public safety concerns that exist in this sector, whilst ensuring businesses that may be impacted are able to access support.”
Volunteering in the Park – Saturday 11th & 25th October
Our next volunteer session is this Saturday (11th), 10:30–12:00!
This week’s main task will be preparing the enlarged wildflower meadow for seeding — by removing strips of turf ready for planting later this month.
We’ll also be litter picking and finishing the weeding of the big white steps.
Thanks to Tuesday’s all-day session with SYSTRA volunteers, the old fence around the meadow has been removed and several new wildflower strips are already seeded and protected with wire mesh. The plan is to create 12 strips in total, all safely covered with chicken wire to keep birds off the seeds. 
Our big seeding session will take place on Saturday 25th October — we’re hoping for a strong turnout then as there’ll be plenty to do!
And a huge thank you to Lyn, one of our volunteer committee members, for designing our lovely new volunteering poster, which you can see here.
Everyone’s welcome — no experience needed, just enthusiasm!
Tea, coffee and biscuits provided.
Here is our week of events for the October holidays! Everything is free and there is no need to book ahead.
Bookbug is on as normal on Tuesday morning and Wednesday afternoon.
On Monday, we will get the Virtual Reality headsets out. Enjoy some experiences and games through the power of VR technology!
On Wednesday, we have Explore Learning joining us with a session on telling the time. While this is aimed at ages 5-7, slightly older children looking to improve their skills can enjoy and benefit from this too.
On Thursday, join Andrew for some spooky stories in the children’s area to get in the mood for Hallowe’en.
On Friday, our usual Crafternoon has also been taken over with a spooky theme. Join in from 2pm, best for middle primary school children.
All week, you can play our board games or on the Xbox One, but if you want to meet people to play with, Saturday afternoon is the time to come in! Staff can also help teach you some new board games.
Hundreds of people gathered in central Edinburgh today (10 Oct) to celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Emeritus Sir Geoff Palmer KT OBE.
Sir Geoff, who died in June aged 85, was a renowned scientist, humanitarian, and the former Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University.
Widely admired as Scotland’s first black professor, he was a tireless advocate for equality and justice.
The memorial celebration, held at the historic St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh’s Old Town, brought together friends, colleagues, dignitaries, and members of the public to pay tribute to his extraordinary contributions.
The service featured personal reflections, speeches, and musical performances by the University’s Chamber Choir, including an uplifting tribute featuring songs by the legendary Jamaican musician Bob Marley.
Speaking afterwards, Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University said: “Today’s memorial celebration has allowed us the opportunity to reflect on the life, work and enduring legacy of Sir Geoff Palmer.
“Sir Geoff was more than a distinguished academic. As Scotland’s first black professor, he broke barriers in science and society, pioneering grain and brewing research while inspiring generations of students and colleagues.
“His scientific achievements, including the internationally recognised barley abrasion process and his leadership in brewing and distilling, are matched by his role as a mentor, teacher and advocate for truth and justice.
“In his service as Chancellor of Heriot-Watt, Sir Geoff brought humility, warmth and an unwavering belief in education as a driver of opportunity. He championed inclusion, encouraged ambition, and reminded us that universities must be places of openness and responsibility to society.
“He also challenged us to confront uncomfortable histories with honesty and courage, ensuring that remembrance was not passive but active. That commitment to fairness, respect and humanity remains one of his greatest legacies.
“His life and values continues to inspire our work at Heriot-Watt and far beyond, and we will carry forward his vision of education, scholarship and justice as a lasting tribute to his extraordinary life.
“In a lasting tribute to his memory, we have launched the Sir Geoff Palmer Memorial Scholarship to support a student of Jamaican descent or Jamaican citizenship to follow in his footsteps; breaking barriers, pursuing excellence, and shaping a fairer future.”
Many of Sir Geoff’s family attended the memorial celebration including his daughter, Catherine Bisset, who said: “We wish to thank everyone who have shared their stories and offered their condolences. We would also like to thank Marie Curie, who looked after him so well in his final weeks.
“Scotland gave our dad a home and a career, so he was dedicated to giving back through education, public service, and the pursuit of justice. He was also extremely humbled and grateful to have been recognised at the highest level for his work, especially for his impact on Scottish and global economies.
“He was focused and worked incredibly hard, but he also had a brilliant sense of humour, and he loved people. Most importantly, he saw humanity in all things, and that is his true legacy.”
The memorial was hosted jointly by Heriot-Watt University and the City of Edinburgh Council, represented by the City of Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, who said: “It was an honour and privilege to offer a short reflection on Sir Geoff’s impact upon our Capital at today’s service. This was a tall order, as he achieved so much, and influenced so many people and places.
“With his gentle manner, Sir Geoff had the ability to persuade policy makers, political leaders, and community leaders alike, of the benefits and richness of equality and diversity – and that we should be able to live in harmony, with mutual understanding and respect for different traditions and heritages.
“In 2022, I was delighted to present Sir Geoff with the Edinburgh Award in recognition of his academic achievements and his passionate defence of human rights and justice in the city and beyond.
His handprints remain immortalised alongside those of other Edinburgh Award recipients and will give passers-by pause to reflect on the huge impact he had here.
“He has gifted our city with a strong legacy, improving our collective efforts on academic research, equality, diversity, and tackling discrimination wherever we find it.
“I know Sir Geoff’s legacy in academia and activism will live on for years to come, inspiring future generations.”
In a lasting tribute to Sir Geoff, the University has created a new scholarship in his honour.
The Sir Geoff Palmer Memorial Scholarship will allow a student of Jamaican descent or citizenship to for follow in his footsteps and reflects Sir Geoff’s dedication to opportunity, inclusion and the belief that every student deserves the chance to thrive.
THE city council is looking for your views on their plans to improve provision for walking, wheeling and cycling along Dundee Street and in the wider Fountainbridge area.
The proposed improvements include changes to footways, pedestrian crossings and public spaces along with upgrading the infrastructure along the existing cycle lanes.
The project will also provide an improved connection between the Telfer Subway and the Union Canal via Gibson Terrace, improving the connectivity of the surrounding network.
The full list of improvements and further information about the project can be found on our website.
The consultation commenced on Monday 6 October 2025 and will run until Monday 12 January 2026.
You can give your views on the consultation website or come down to one of the drop-in events at Fountainbridge Library on 12 November and 19 November, from 1pm to 6:30pm.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “This is an important stage in our plans to make Fountainbridge a safer, more accessible, and pleasant place for everyone to move around and spend time in.
“Providing safer conditions for walking, wheeling, and cycling alongside improving connectivity are key principles of our City Mobility Plan. Keeping Edinburgh moving means looking effectively at our whole transport network and how we can improve it for the benefit of all.
“I’d encourage everyone to give their views and help shape these ambitious proposals.”
October kickstarts Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a good opportunity to remind women of the importance of attending their breast screening appointment.
“One in eight women in Scotland will be diagnosed with breast cancer. But when it’s found early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher.
“In fact, women are five times more likely to survive. Breast screening alone saves around 130 lives every year in Scotland,” said Heather Jarvie, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) Public Health Programme Manager.
“Breast screening helps us detect cancers that are too small to see or feel. That’s why we encourage every woman who receives an invitation to attend. It could be lifesaving.”
Who is eligible for breast screening?
Women aged between 50 and 70 will be invited for breast screening every three years. Those eligible will be invited by NHSGGC via letter, email or post, depending on what they selected as their communication preference with their GP.
Anyone over the age of 70 can make an appointment for breast screening directly via the breast screening service.
Breast screening is also offered to non-binary people whose birth certificate originally said female, who haven’t had breast removal surgery, trans women who are taking hormones, and trans men who haven’t had breast removal surgery.
Don’t miss out
NHSGGC is also taking this opportunity to encourage women who may have missed their appointment, or who cannot make their appointment, to please contact their local breast screening service to rearrange another suitable date. Heather explained:
“We understand that life happens and at times appointments may be missed or dates and times simply don’t work due to conflicting events. Please don’t miss out because of this. Anyone who has missed their breast screening appointment should get in touch.”
West of Scotland Breast Screening Service contact number: 0141 800 8800.
Heather also provided reassurance to anyone who may have nerves about attending. She said: “We also understand that for some attending a screening can feel daunting, but we’re here to support you every step of the way.
“Our team is friendly, professional, and ready to make your experience as easy and reassuring as possible. We suggest that women watch the ‘what to expect’ video ahead of time to set their mind at ease.”
What happens at a screening appointment?
Eligible women living in Greater Glasgow and Clyde, will either be invited to the NHSGGC breast screening centre in Nelson Mandela Place, Glasgow City Centre or to one of NHSGGC’s breast screening mobile units that visit localities throughout the year.
This mobile unit, often called the screening bus, is a welcoming, private, and fully accessible space, designed to make visits as comfortable and supportive as possible.
Each appointment involves a mammogram, four quick X-rays, two of each breast, carried out by a specially trained female mammographer. The process only takes a few minutes, and there’s time beforehand to ask questions or share any concerns.
If you have or care for someone with additional support needs
Heather also explained the reasonable adjustments that can be made to appointments: “We have options available for people who have additional support needs.
“They or their carers can call our breast clinics and request extra support, whether that’s a longer appointment or bringing someone with them. We have easy read booklets too for people with learning disabilities to look through ahead of time so as they can understand what to expect.
“Please remember to contact the breast screening service before your appointment to discuss any support needs you may have”
What all women should do at home
Women are also urged that if they notice any unusual changes in their breasts, they should not wait for their screening. They should speak to their GP right away, even if they’ve recently had a mammogram.
Signs and symptoms to look out for include:
For more information visit:
Breast cancer | Get Checked Early
Breast screening in Scotland | NHS inform
Lunches for children and young people are available to pick up 12:30 – 1pm