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Pupils and teachers recognised for challenging inequality through creativity at The Saroj Lal Awards

Winners announced in the annual Saroj Lal Awards

Primary and secondary aged learners along with teaching staff from across Edinburgh were honoured with awards at a ceremony held at the City Chambers on Thursday (6 March).

The awards, now in their third year, encouraged schools to nominate pupils’ work in any art form including the written word, technologies and multi-artforms, inspired by the award themes of equality, inclusion and diversity. Head teachers were also encouraged to nominate a staff team from their school whose collaborative work around equalities has adopted a creative approach and had an impact on the school or in the wider community.

Saroj Lal was one of the first Asian women to teach in a Scottish primary school when she began her role at South Morningside Primary School in 1970.

Her many successes included being at the forefront of race relations during a period of immense political and social change, delivering anti-racism training and starting the first local authority interpreting and translating service in Edinburgh.

Following her death in 2020, Saroj’s many achievements in equality, women’s rights, education, and community work are being formally recognised.

Entries were judged by a panel of esteemed judges including Saroj Lal’s son, Vineet Lal, Ethelinda Lashley-Scott, CEO of the Multi-Cultural Family Base (MCFB), Hardeep Kaur, winner of the 2024 GTC of Scotland Saroj Lal Awards and teacher at Portobello High School, Carol Tuzan, Wider Achievement & Lifelong Learning Manager (CLD youth and children’s work) along with a former Saroj Lal Award staff winner and two student judges, recruited for the first time, via school’s equalities groups and the youth parliament.

The award categories for pupils were as follows:

  • Proud to be Me: Communicates the young person’s personal expression of pride in their heritage, in their own culture and/or identity.
  • How Prejudice Makes Me Feel: Expresses young people’s feelings about any form of prejudice inflicted on themselves or others.
  • Artivism: Art expresses their views on social justice and challenges others to change and/or act differently.

The winners are:

  • Proud To Be Me – primary schools’ category: P7’s “The Quilt Group” at Currie Primary School
  • Proud To Be Me – secondary schools’ category: Pilrig Park School – A whole school Project
  • How Prejudice Makes Me Feel – primary schools’ category: Andrew Amanfo – P5 Ferryhill Primary School
  • How Prejudice Makes Me Feel – secondary schools’ category: Jesudarasimi Omaoya (Dara)- S3 Castlebrae Community Campus
  • Artivism – primary schools’ category: Duddingston Primary School – A whole school Project
  • Artivism – secondary schools’ category:  Farah Joma – S4 St Thomas of Aquin’s RC High School
  • Staff winner:  Laura-Jane Inglis. (Teacher of Modern Studies and Politics in the Faculty of Humanities)  James Gillespie’s High School
  • Judges Commendation Award 2025 is: Hazel Li S1 Craigmount High School

Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education, Children and Families Convener, hosted the awards and said: “Most of us will be able to recall an inspiring or memorable teacher and Saroj Lal raised the bar in leading the way during her lifetime, and she continues to inspire Edinburgh learners through the legacy she left behind.

“Now in their third year, the awards recognise the work schools and pupils are doing to champion equality and promote diversity. It’s fantastic to see that so many schools have submitted entries this year, from art works, poems, films and animation, the entries this year include a real mix of mediums and at such a high standard.

“I want to congratulate the winners, and acknowledge all those who submitted an entry, for their creativity.

Vineet Lal, said: “The quality of entries this year has been outstanding and I want to thank pupils and staff across Edinburgh schools who have put so much thought and creativity in to their submissions this year. I have been blown away by the different ways that the art works have captured and showcased the themes of equality and diversity.

“Saroj was a force for good in her community and beyond, championing social justice and equality for all. She would be extremely proud to see that the awards in her name are now in their third year and that children and young people continue to be inspired by her pioneering work.”

Judges:

  • Vineet Lal, Saroj Lal’s son
  • Ethelinda Lashley-Scott, CEO of the Multi-Cultural Family Base (MCFB)
  • Hardeep Kaur, winner of the 2024 GTC of Scotland Saroj Lal Awards and teacher at Portobello High School,
  • Carol Tuzan, Wider Achievement & Lifelong Learning Manager (CLD youth and children’s work)
  • Elaine Oram, winner of the Saroj Lal Awards staff category last year and teacher at James Gillespies High School
  • Yashasvi Soni, student judge and S6 Pupil at Leith Academy
  • Scarlet D’Mellow, student judge and pupil at  Liberton High School

Sir Geoff Palmer Honoured with prestigious Fletcher of Saltoun Award

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for the Lothian Region and long-time friend of Sir Geoff Palmer, KT, OBE, CD, is delighted to celebrate that Sir Geoff has been named a recipient of an esteemed Fletcher of Saltoun Awards, receiving the Award for Public Life, from the Saltire Society of Scotland.

Recognised for his outstanding contributions to Scottish culture, Sir Geoff joins an illustrious list of over 65 individuals who have been celebrated in the award’s 35-year history.

Sir Geoff Palmer, a distinguished scientist, human rights activist, and academic, has played a pivotal role in advancing knowledge and fostering dialogue on crucial social issues. As Scotland’s first Black professor, his groundbreaking research in brewing science has earned him international acclaim.

Beyond his academic achievements, Sir Geoff has been a tireless advocate for racial equality, education, and historical awareness, particularly in addressing Scotland’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.

His work has significantly shaped national conversations on inclusivity and justice, with Mr. Choudhury and Sir Geoff working together through various community efforts and as leading members of the Edinburgh & Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC).

Sir Geoff’s recognition does not stop at the Saltoun Awards; he has been recognised by ELREC as Honorary President, and in 2014 he was knighted with New Year Honours, a Jamaican Honorary Consul, Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, Jamaican Commander of Distinction, and more.

Mr. Choudhury is proud to celebrate Sir Geoff Palmer’s remarkable contributions to public life with the Fletcher of Saltoun Award.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Sir Geoff has been a close friend and mentor for many years. I am proud to see his groundbreaking work in research and in championing equality recognised.

“His achievements embody the spirit of the award, celebrating those who shape and enrich Scotland’s cultural and intellectual landscape.”

100,000 grieving families in financial difficulty left to cover £240m funeral bill

The cost of a simple, attended funeral has risen 3.5% in a year to £4,285 according to the 21st annual SunLife Cost of Dying report

  • 68% of people leave money behind to pay for their funeral, but only 38% leave enough – this lack of provision means that, on average, families are left to cover a shortfall of £1,695 – across the UK that’s almost £1bn
  • For 1 in 5 bereaved families – around 100,000 across the UK – covering this cost causes ‘notable financial concerns’
  • The shortfall for this group is higher at £2,370 – creating a total unpaid funeral debt of £240m which they are being forced to take on debt, ask loved ones for money, and even sell their belongings to cover
  • 75% say paying for a funeral impacted their mental health, while 60% said it impacted their physical health

The rising cost of funerals, combined with the fact only 1 in 3 people put enough provision in place to pay for them, is leaving some families with debt and impacting their mental and physical wellbeing, according to the 21st edition of the SunLife Cost of Dying Report.

The UK’s longest running report into funeral costs has found that the cost of a simple, attended funeral1 has risen 3.5% in a year to £4,285, while an unattended cremation (also known as a direct cremation) has risen 6.7% to £1,597.

The report also shows that while two thirds (68%) of people do make provisions to pay for their own funeral, only 38% leave enough to cover the whole cost. This lack of provision means that, on average, families are left to cover a shortfall of £1,695. 

While it is sometimes possible to release money from the deceased’s bank accounts for funeral costs before probate has taken place, a third of families are still left to cover at least some of the costs themselves, with 10% taking on debt to do so.

Cost of living crisis impacting families’ ability to cover funeral costs

According to SunLife’s findings, 33% of people who recently organised a funeral say the cost-of-living crisis impacted how they organised and paid for it. One in eight (13%) say they had to cut back on certain aspects of the funeral because they couldn’t afford it, and 10% say the cost of living crisis added an extra layer of stress.

One in five (22%) said paying for the funeral impacted their own standard of living, including 8% who had to cut back on essential items and 6% who struggled to pay essential bills.

1 in 5 suffer ‘notable’ financial difficulties paying for a funeral – and are struggling with £240m of funeral debt

The study also shows that for one in five (18%) families, having to find the money to pay for a loved ones’ funeral caused notable financial difficulties. This group have to find an average of £2,370 to cover the cost.

A quarter of those with notable financial concern report struggling to pay essential bills or rent, and 34% have to cut back on essential items such as food.  To make up the shortfall, one in four (24%) use a credit card, and 12% take out a loan to cover the cost. On average, this group take on £3,109 of debt.

A further one in four (23%) borrow from a friend or relative, while one in five (19%) sell belongings to cover the cost.

3 in 4 (75%) say paying for a funeral impacted their mental health, while 60% said it impacted their physical health. For some, costs may be recouped from the deceased’s estate once it has been administered. But, as a funeral typically takes place before probate, families may still be left struggling to cover the cost in the short term.

Mark Screeton, CEO at SunLife said: “Funeral costs have risen dramatically in the 21 years we’ve been tracking them. Back in 2004, the average cost of a simple, attended funeral was £1,835. Today, it stands at £4,285 – a staggering 134% increase, far outpacing inflation over the same period.

Couple this with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the fact that many people don’t leave enough provision to cover their funeral – or even share their preferences – and you have a situation where grieving families can be left struggling with debt at an already difficult time.

“Most of us have an idea of what we’d like for our own funeral, but we rarely communicate it. Our study shows just half of funeral organisers know whether loved ones wanted a burial or cremation, while other preferences are even less known. And with over £1,000 difference in cost between the two options, this can bring an extra layer of financial pressure when loved ones are worrying about ‘getting it right’.

“One of the kindest things we can do for our loved ones is to open up and plan ahead. We need to break the stigma around talking about death, start discussing the kind of send-off we want, and where we expect the money to come from. By doing so, we can spare our families unnecessary financial and emotional stress when the time comes.

“SunLife has a great free tool called My Perfect Send Off, which walks you through various funeral options and lets you record your preferences (or even lack thereof). You can then download and keep your wishes, or share them with a loved one.”

Read the full summary webpage and download SunLife’s comprehensive 2025 Cost of Dying PDF report at www.sunlife.co.uk/funeral-costs

sunlife-cost-of-dying-report-2025Download

More rights for victims of crime

Notification scheme to be expanded

More crime victims will get access to a range of information about the perpetrator and have a say on decisions about their prison release under newly unveiled justice reforms.

Currently victims can register with the Victim Notification Scheme (VNS) if the offender in their case has been sentenced to 18 months or more in prison, or with the Victim Information Scheme if the sentence was less than 18 months.

Under Scottish Government proposals to be considered by the Scottish Parliament, all victims will be able to register under one programme with the same right rights and same access to information, regardless of the length of the offender’s prison sentence.

A further proposal, if approved by MSPs, would give all victims the right to make representations where an offender is being considered for release on licence – and on the licence conditions they would like to see imposed. Currently this entitlement only applies where an offender was sentenced to four years or more in custody.

Improvements are also proposed to the range of information available through the VNS for victims of offenders in the forensic mental health system who are subject to a compulsion order and restriction order.

The plans build on previously announced proposed reforms to the Victim Notification Scheme that will create a new Victim Contact Team to give personalised support based on a victim’s individual needs.

The latest plans are being introduced as proposed amendments to the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill, the next stage of which begins in the Scottish Parliament next week.

Victims Minister Siobhian Brown said: “These reforms will put victims’ rights at the heart of the justice system.

“Victims of crime will be able to sign up to one simplified notification scheme that allows them to receive information about the offenders and, if they wish, to have a say in decisions being made about the offenders, including their release. These changes recognise that a victim’s rights should not hinge on the length of sentence that the perpetrator is serving.

“One system will be easier for victims to navigate and this change will add to a raft of proposed reforms to the VNS, including the creation of a new Victim Contact Team.  We want victims to know their rights to receive information and to be supported to make informed choices on whether they wish to do so. We will continue to work closely with victims’ representatives as we take forward these reforms.”

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Gain valuable insights on CV writing, interview skills, personal branding, and explore career opportunities at TSB.

– Date: Friday, 7th March 2025

– Time: 14:00-15:00

– Location: ELREC, 14 Forth Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3LH

If interested, please register by emailing mrostami@elrec.org.uk.

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Panda & Sons and Grey Goose team up to launch Edinburgh’s hottest new cocktail trend

MEET 2025’S HOTTEST LITTLE TREND: THE GREY GOOSE® TINY ‘TINI

In 2025, small is the new big, with tiny drinks and shareable plates stealing hearts and dominating menus – the iconic vodka martini cocktail is joining the trend.

Set to lead a ‘Martineissance’ in 2025 – the GREY GOOSE® Vodka Tiny ‘Tini is predicted to open the doors of the martini cocktail to a brand-new era of cocktail lovers.

 In case you hadn’t heard, the vodka martini cocktail is making a stylish comeback, blending timeless elegance with new bartender creativity to suit every taste. But for some, the classic martini cocktail can feel like a bit ‘too intimidating’.  

Introducing the new GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini. Partnering with renowned cocktail bars across London, Manchester and Edinburgh, the iconic vodka brand has worked with bars to introduce a flight of miniature GREY GOOSE vodka martini cocktails – perfectly chilled, perfectly sized, and perfect for social occasions.  

Tapping into the increasing trends of moderation, flavour exploration and accessible luxury, the GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini makes vodka martini cocktails more approachable, proving that great things really do come in small packages. 

The ‘small and mini’ trend is showing no signs of slowing down for 2025 either – with more and more people developing a fascination for craftsmanship, where intricate, miniature designs are admired for their artistry, attention to detail – and flavour. 

Lexa Ulijaszek, UK Ambassador for GREY GOOSE commented: “When it comes to the vodka martini cocktail, size does matter for some. Sometimes a full-sized martini cocktail can be a little bit too intimidating.

“Or over the course of great conversation between friends, the final sip of your drink may not be as superbly chilled or balanced in taste as the beginning. As a result, the offer of a ‘sip sized cocktail’ is gaining traction across many of the UK’s most influential bars.”  

“A sip size GREY GOOSETiny ‘Tini is the perfect solution – beautifully crafted, expertly chilled, elegantly served- with rich taste. A flight of three petite drinks allows you to responsibly enjoy the perfection of the ‘first sip’ of a martini cocktail while also experiencing a range of unique flavours. 

“The trend is very much a UK-wide affair, with some of the best bars across Manchester, Edinburgh and London all serving the GREY GOOSETiny ‘Tini – ushering in a brand new and bold ‘sip sized’ era for the vodka martini cocktail.” 

Set to lead a ‘Martineissance’ in 2025 – the GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini is predicted to open the doors of the martini cocktail to a whole new generation of cocktail lovers.  

Flights of GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini’s range £12 to £25 and will be available across London (A Bar with Shapes for a Name, and Lobby bar at The London EDITION), Manchester (Blinker) and Edinburgh (Panda & Sons) for a limited time. 



Where to sip a GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini:

(Subject to availability. We suggest reservations where possible to avoid disappointment. All pricing set by the venues and subject to change).

Panda & Sons, Edinburgh

79 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 4NF 

£18 

Reserve online at: Panda & Sons

Available March 1, through April 30.

A Bar with Shapes for a Name, London

232 Kingsland Rd, Whitmore Estate, London E2 8AX 

£21 

Reserve online at: home | club bauhaus

Available March 1, through April 30.

The Lobby Bar at The London EDITION  

10 Berners St, London W1T 3NP 

£25 

Reserve online at: The London EDITION Lobby Bar | Soho London Bar & Cocktail Bar

Available March 3, through April 30.

Blinker, Manchester

64-72 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 2BQ 

£12 for flight of 3, or £4.50 for a single miniature cocktail 

Reserve online at: Blinker

Available March 1, through April 30

PM: ‘Britain will lead from the front’

Prime Minister Starmer’s statement to the House of Commons: 3 March 2025

Mr. Speaker 

Less than a week since I called on this House to show the courage of our predecessors we see clearly before us – the test of our times. A crossroads in our history.   

So with permission I will update the House on my efforts to secure a strong, just and lasting peace following Russia’s vile invasion of Ukraine. 

Mr. Speaker – it begins in this House where on Tuesday, I announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

A recognition of the fact that once again, we live in an era where peace in Europe depends upon strength and deterrence.

But also – a rediscovery of the old post-war argument long-held on these benches that economic security is national security. 

Because Mr. Speaker, the demands we now have to make of Britain must come alongside a new foundation of security for working people. 

The tough choices we made last week, they are not done. We must use the process of getting to 3% of our national income spent on defence to fundamentally rebuild British industry. 

Use our investment in military spending to create new jobs and apprenticeships in every part of our country. 

And that’s why, last night, I announced a deal that perfectly symbolises this new era. 

A partnership with Ukraine that allows them to use £1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to buy 5,000 air defence missiles, manufactured in Belfast. That means UK jobs, UK skills, UK finance , pulling together for our national interest.

Putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace and protecting innocent civilians from the terror of Russian drones. 

Mr. Speaker, my efforts continued on Thursday when I met President Trump in the White House to strengthen our relationship with America. 

Now, what happened in his subsequent meeting with President Zelenskyy is something nobody in this House wants to see. 

But I do want to be crystal clear: we must strengthen our relationship with America for our security, for our technology, for our trade and investment. They are and always will be – indispensable. 

And we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic. In fact, Mr. Speaker, if anything, the past week has shown that that idea to be totally unserious. Because while some people may enjoy the simplicity of taking a side, this week has shown with total clarity that the US is vital in securing the peace we all want to see in Ukraine. 

So I welcome the opportunity for a new economic deal with the US, confirmed by the President last week, because it is an opportunity I am determined to pursue. 

I welcome the positive discussions we had on European security, including his clear support for Article 5 of NATO. I welcome the understanding, from our dialogue that our two nations will work together on security arrangements for a lasting peace in Ukraine. 

And I also welcome the President’s continued commitment to that peace which nobody in this House should doubt for a second – is sincere. 

Mr. Speaker, I now turn to events this weekend and the moving scenes that greeted President Zelenskyy as he arrived in London on Saturday. 

Mr. Speaker I saw for myself that he was taken aback when the crowd in Whitehall cheered at the top of their voices, and they were speaking for the whole of our country.

A reminder – that this Government, this House and this nation stand in unwavering support behind him and the people of Ukraine. 

Mr. Speaker, we resolved together to move forward the strong cause of just and lasting peace for Ukraine.  

And then on Sunday I hosted European leaders from across our continent, equally committed to this cause including President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, the leaders of NATO, the European Commission and Council and the Prime Minister of Canada, a vital ally of this country, the Commonwealth and Ukraine responsible for training over 40,000 Ukrainian troops.  

I also had the privilege beforehand of speaking online to the leaders of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia – each of whom, as close as they are to the frontline with Russia, stressed the urgency of the moment. 

And Mr. Speaker, it was a productive summit. Together, we agreed a clear strategy. That the United Kingdom, France and our allies will work closely with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, which we will then discuss directly with the United States. 

It is a plan that has four clear principles, which I will now share in full with the House:

First, that we must keep the military aid to Ukraine flowing, keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia. And to that end, alongside our partnership on air defence we are doubling-down on military aid. 

Already this year we have taken our support to record levels but on Saturday we also agreed a new £2.2 billion loan for Ukraine backed, not by the British taxpayer but by the profits from frozen Russian assets.

Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must guarantee the sovereignty and security of Ukraine. And that Ukraine must be at the table when negotiating their future. That is absolutely vital. 

Third, we agreed that in the event of a peace deal we will continue to boost Ukraine’s defences and Ukraine’s deterrence. 

And finally, fourth.we agreed to develop a “coalition of the willing” ready to defend a deal in Ukraine and guarantee the peace. 

After all, the Ukrainian position is completely understandable. For them, the war did not begin three years ago. That was merely the latest and most brutal escalation.  

They have signed agreements with Putin, before. They have experienced the nature of his diplomacy and the calibre of his word.  

We can’t accept a weak deal like Minsk again, No, we must proceed with strength and that does now require – urgently – a coalition of the willing. 

Mr. Speaker – we agreed on Sunday that those willing to play a role in this will intensify planning now.  And as this House would expect Britain will play a leading role. With, if necessary and together with others, boots on the ground and planes in the air. 

Mr. Speaker, it is right that Europe do the heavy lifting to support peace on our continent. But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing. 

I want to assure the House I take none of this lightly. I visited British troops in Estonia and no aspect of my role weighs more heavily than the deployment of British troops in the service of the defence and security in Europe.

And yet I do feel very strongly that the future of Ukraine is vital for our national security. 

Russia is a menace in our waters and skies, They have launched cyber-attacks on our NHS, assassination attempts in our streets.  

In this House, we stand by Ukraine because it is the right thing to do but we also stand by them because it is in our interest to do so. Because if we do not achieve a lasting peace then the instability and insecurity that has hit the living standards of working people in Britain that will only get worse. 

And Putin’s appetite for conflict and chaos that will only grow. 

So a strong peace, a just peace, a lasting peace, that has now to be our goal.  

It is vital, it is in our interest and its pursuit – Britain will lead from the front. 

For the security of our continent, the security of our country and the security of the British people we must now win the peace. 

And I commend this statement to the House.

UPDATE

Stakes have been raised since Starmer’s announcement to Westminster yesterday. A spokesman for the Trump government announced overnight that the USA is is to ‘pause’ military aid to Ukraine.

Trump’s USA is by far the biggest contributor to Ukraine’s military effort and this latest statement of American intent, if carried out, deals a grevious blow to Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian invaders.

Europe’s ‘coalition of the willing’ may have to come up with a revised plan – and quickly.

Scottish Apprenticeship Week – New data from BAE Systems

NEW RESEARCH REVEALS GROWING APPEAL OF APPRENTICESHIPS AMONG NEXT GENERATION OF WORKERS IN SCOTLAND

As one of the UK’s largest apprenticeship providers, BAE Systems has investigated the latest attitudes towards career paths amongst young people to coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week (3 – 7 March).

The findings are part of a newly launched Apprenticeship Barometer, which surveyed 2,000 young people (16-24 year olds) to identify views on education, training and pathways to career success.

Main attractions

The survey revealed a growing interest in apprenticeships, with more than 74% of Scottish respondents willing to relocate to a different part of the UK to seize an apprenticeship opportunity and 6 in 10 preferring it as an alternative to university.

The findings highlight a significant shift toward flexibility and apprenticeships being increasingly recognised as a pathway to secure and rewarding careers, with respondents citing job security (31%), high starting salaries (25%) and hands-on training (21%) as the most appealing features.

An overwhelming 85% of respondents agreed that apprenticeships enhance social mobility, offer significant potential to support disadvantaged groups and provide alternatives to traditional higher education routes.

Barriers to access

Despite their appeal, responses suggest barriers such as limited opportunities (30%) and lack of information (41%) continue to hinder access to apprenticeships, highlighting the need for greater awareness and more accessible pathways.

Over half (53%) of the young people surveyed in Scotland said they felt uninformed about apprenticeship opportunities in their field of interest and 85% believed employers should expand apprenticeship programmes alongside graduate schemes to meet rising demand.

STEM leads the way

Industries linked to careers in science, technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) ranked highly in apprenticeship preferences, with over 1 in 4 (28%) of the young people surveyed expressing interest. They also ranked in the top three careers that respondents associated with the greatest job security.

Money matters

More than half (55%) of respondents identified earning while learning as the main reason for choosing an apprenticeship over university, while 25% cited avoiding student debt as a key motivator, reflecting a perceived growing financial awareness.

Richard Hamer, HR Director of Education and Skills at BAE Systems, said: “The Apprenticeship Barometer gives a real insight into the aspirations and values of the next generation of the UK workforce.

“It’s clear there’s a huge appetite for high quality vocational training that provides a clear career pathway, whilst offering financial security.

“I’d encourage anyone interested in apprenticeships to have a look at the thousands of highly valuable opportunities available across the country.”

BAE Systems is recruiting for more than 2,400 new apprentice, undergraduate and graduate roles in 2025,which will result in around 6,500 in training, making up approximately 15% of its UK workforce.

Witness appeal following road collision on Craigmillar Park

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY HGV

POLICE are appealing for information following a collision involving a pedestrian and an HGV in South Edinburgh.

Around 6.15pm last night (Sunday, 2 March, 2025), the 55-year-old man was struck by the Volvo lorry on the A701, Craigmillar Park, near the junction with Lygon Road.

He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where medical staff describe his condition as critical.

The HGV did not stop at the scene but was later traced, as was the 37-year-old male driver.

The A701 was closed while crash investigations were carried out and reopened around 10.15pm.

Enquires are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.

Edinburgh Road Policing Constable Mhairi Deuchar said: “I’m appealing to anyone who witnessed this incident, or who has any information about what happened, to contact us.

“I’d also ask drivers with dashcams who were in the area at the time to please review your footage and bring anything you think may be significant to our attention.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 2676 of 2 March.

The Scottish Colourists: Radical Perspectives

The creation of a new language of colour in European art

Dovecot Studios, 10 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1LT

Friday 7th February – Saturday 28th June 2025 

In this breakthrough exhibition, Edinburgh’s Dovecot Studios, in partnership with the Fleming  Collection, will for the first time place the Scottish Colourists in the context of their European  and UK contemporaries, interrogating how this international generation of radical painters  forged a new language of colour in Paris in the early 20th Century. 

The Scottish Colourists – SJ Peploe (1871-1935), JD Fergusson (1874-1961), GL Hunter (1877- 1931) and FCB Cadell (1883-1937) – are widely recognised as Scotland’s most talented,  experimental and distinctive artists of the early 20th Century.

Often exhibited as a quartet, in  isolation from their contemporaries, their work will now be shown alongside Fauve painters, such as Matisse and Derain, who sparked the colour revolution, spotlighted in the exhibition by  Derain’s renowned Fauvist work, Pool of London, lent by Tate.

Other major institutional loans  include key works by Bloomsbury Group innovators Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, as well as  major examples from Walter Sickert’s more nuanced Camden Town Group.

The exhibition will  also investigate a possible ‘Celtic’ connection in the primal response to colour by Welsh artists,  Augustus John and James Dickson Innes, and Ireland’s Roderick O’Conor, suggesting a continuity  between the approach taken by these artists and that of the Scots.  

This exciting exhibition will offer an unparalleled opportunity to challenge conventions around who, among the avant-garde pack of UK artists inspired by French innovation, should be  considered the leading radical painters from 1905 to the outbreak of war in 1914.

The  exhibition’s timeline will also cover the impact of Cubism and Vorticism on this group of artists  immediately before and after the outbreak of war.

The culmination of the show will celebrate the coming together of the Scottish Colourists as a distinct group in the 1920s and 1930s,  marked out by the continuing influence of both French colour and Scottish light upon their work  as painters of landscape, still life, and interiors.

Appropriately, their dedicated group show was  held in Paris in 1924, followed by a 1925 London show, making Dovecot’s 2025 exhibition a most  timely centenary celebration.  

James Knox, Curator of the Fleming Collection, says: “This momentous exhibition will, for the very  first time, shine the spotlight on the radical Scots and their contemporaries, allowing us to truly  assess their achievements and place in the history of early European modernism.

“I am immensely  grateful to the national institutions and private collectors who have enabled this story to be told  alongside the Fleming Collection’s outstanding Scottish Colourists.”

Celia Joicey, Director of Dovecot Studios says: “Presenting the Scottish Colourists at the vanguard  of the creative avant-garde in the UK is an opportunity to recast Scotland’s pivotal role in the  history of early 20th century art.

“As a tapestry studio founded in 1912, it is exciting for Dovecot  to show these important paintings which set our work and world-class reputation in a  compelling new context.”

The exhibition will be supported from March 2025 by a series of displays on the Dovecot  Balcony Gallery of contemporary Scottish artists working with colour in creative and challenging  ways in media including watercolour, acrylic, oil, wood and textile.