Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman’s handbag was stolen in a robbery near St Mary’s Cathedralat the West End.
The incident happened at around 7.25pm on Tuesday (19 October) as the 39-year-old was walking with a second woman on the lane between Manor Place and Palmerston Place, which runs behind the cathedral.
Two men approached the women from direction of Atholl Place and together forcibly removed the woman’s handbag.
The suspects left the area on foot towards Manor Place. Officers attended the scene and found no trace of the men or the stolen items, which include a phone and keys from within the bag.
Both suspects are described as adult men, of stocky builds and wearing all black clothing with their hoods up.
Detective Sergeant Gary Smyth of Gayfield CID said: “The victim and her companion were simply walking along the street when these men approached them and stole her handbag. The red leather bag is still missing, along with its contents.
“We are reviewing CCTV in the area and would ask anyone with private systems to check their footage and provide anything of relevance to officers as soon as possible.
“I’d also ask anyone in the West End area on Tuesday night who may have witnessed what happened, or the suspects before or after the incident, to come forward and speak with officers.”
Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 and quote incident number 2965 of 19 October. An anonymous report can be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
First ever green savings product from a sovereign issuer goes on sale online at NS&I for at least the next three months
The Green Savings Bonds will give UK savers the chance to back the Government’s green projects and join the collective fight against climate change
Bonds provide savers with financial returns and environmental benefits, backed by NS&I’s 100% guarantee
The world’s first green savings product from a sovereign issuer is available to UK savers from today (22 October 2021), less than two weeks ahead of the COP26 climate conference.
The landmark Green Savings Bonds give savers aged 16 or over the opportunity to back the Government’s green projects and put their money to work in the fight against climate change.
Green projects like zero-emissions buses, offshore wind and innovative low-carbon technologies will be eligible for funding, along with programmes to help us adapt to a changing climate like flood defences.
Projects to boost living and natural resources such as planting trees, protecting biodiversity and environmentally sustainable agriculture will also be eligible.
The Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: ““Our world-first Green Savings Bonds give savers across the UK the chance to back the Government’s green projects and put their money to work in the fight against climate change.
“The UK is already a world leader in green finance and these innovative new savings bonds will deliver both financial returns and environmental benefits, in a transparent and secure way.”
The Green Savings Bonds will be available from NS&I’s website and are offered at a 0.65% fixed annual rate over a three-year term.
With demand for environmentally friendly investments growing, particularly amongst young people, the bonds offer savers a way to generate both financial and environmental returns.
Research found that around 80% of people aged between 25-44 would be very or fairly interested in the concept of a green savings product, and that 42% of 18–34-year-olds would be willing to accept a lower return on their savings if they knew their money was being put towards green projects.
And because the Green Savings Bonds are offered by NS&I, the Treasury-backed savings organisation which offers Premium Bonds and other products, 100% of the investment is protected and guaranteed by the Treasury.
The Government will report regularly so savers can see which projects have been funded and the positive environmental impact their investment is making.
And in another world-first, the UK will report on the social co-benefits of the projects funded, so savers will also be able to track metrics such as the number of jobs created and SMEs or households who have benefitted.
Sean Kidney, CEO of Climate Bonds Initiative: “Every government has to green their budgets to meet climate targets.
“The UK’s landmark green savings bonds show just how that greening can and will be funded. It serves as an example to the world.”
Rhian-Mari Thomas, CEO of Green Finance Institute: “Following the success of the UK’s first two Green Gilt issuances, it’s great to see the launch of the new Green Savings Bonds, which will allow savers to put their money to work for the benefit of the environment.
“This is another important step to channel investment towards building a green, prosperous and inclusive UK economy, and an opportunity for savers to get involved.”
The Green Savings Bonds are the latest green finance initiative from the UK, which has been setting an example globally.
In the last month, the UK has issued £16bn of green sovereign bonds, with a record-breaking debut issue of £10bn that attracted the largest ever order book for a green bond, followed up by a successful second issuance of £6bn yesterday (21 October), which was even more heavily oversubscribed.
And earlier this week, the UK clamped down on greenwashing and set new global standards for environmental reporting with requirements for certain large businesses to set out their green credentials.
City of Edinburgh Councillor Ellie Bird (above, far right) has been shortlisted in the Champion for Education category in this year’s LGIU Scotland & CCLA Cllr Awards.
Running for the 4th year, the Cllr Awards are the only national ceremony to celebrate the vital contributions of councillors that so often go unrecognised. As communities continue to recover from the pandemic, these Awards are a hugely important way to champion what local councillors do for their communities.
Competition was extremely tight again this year with nearly 100 nominations received across six categories that celebrate the varied work of councillors. Some of the awards up for grabs include Resilience and Recovery (new for 2021), alongside the coveted Community Champion, Leader of the Year and New Councillor of the Year awards. The full shortlist is included below.
The winners will be decided by a panel of judges composed of senior councillors and officers as well as leading stakeholders from across the sector. The winners will be revealed at the Cllr Awards ceremony taking place on Wednesday, 24th November from 6:30pm until 9pm at Glasgow City Chambers. The ceremony will also be broadcast live on YouTube.
This year’s awards are only made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partners CCLA.
Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, LGIU Scotland said: “This year’s Cllr Awards shortlist showcases the best of local government. During a time when they have experienced unprecedented challenges and pressure, these councillors are true champions for local government and their communities.
“The last year has reminded each and every one of us of the effort and lengths to which councillors go to support their citizens. As such, we were overwhelmed by powerful stories and experiences coming through the nearly 100 nominations received for councillors across Scotland.
“Our most sincere congratulations to all of those councillors shortlisted. We look forward to unveiling the winners on Wednesday, 24 November.”
Cllr Eleanor ‘Ellie’ Bird is councillor for Edinburgh’s Forth ward, the city’s Young People’s Champion and a trustee of both Spartans Community Football Academy and Changeworks.
She believes passionately in placing the voice of young people at the heart of decision-making and is currently working to support candidates for the Scottish Youth Parliament election.
Ellie is the only City of Edinburgh councillor to be shortlisted in the national awards.
About the Award Categories
Champion for Education
The Champion for Education award celebrates councillors who have guaranteed that everybody has access to high-quality education. This can include championing adult education, providing new learning opportunities that have previously been unavailable, or ensuring that no one gets left behind.
The winner of this award will have:
worked with educational bodies and the council to enable high-quality education;
listened to the needs of their local community to introduce new opportunities for learning;
thought creatively to introduce educational approaches that are tailored to suit different needs.
Advertising blitz to urge public to get flu and COVID-19 vaccines
Boots, LloydsPharmacy and Asda come together to support largest ever winter vaccine drive
This year will see the country’s biggest flu programme in history with 35 million people eligible for a free vaccine
A nationwide advertising campaign launches today (Friday 22 October) as part of the government’s call to the public to get their COVID-19 booster and flu jabs, to protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.
The multimedia campaign will run on outdoor billboards, broadcast and community radio and TV to support the national vaccine drive.
The colder weather traditionally leads to increased transmission of viruses. Experts have warned that this year there could be a significant flu surge coinciding with continuing or rising COVID-19 cases. Immunity to flu is expected to be lower due to lower levels of the virus in circulation last winter.
Vaccines give high levels of protection but immunity reduces over time, so it is vital vulnerable people come forward to get their COVID-19 booster vaccine to top-up their defences and protect themselves this winter. For those not eligible for a booster, the protection from two doses is sufficient.
Vaccines provide the best possible protection against infection and serious disease. The UK government is pushing the biggest ever winter vaccine campaign for COVID-19 and flu, so people can protect themselves and their loved ones this winter and play their role in reducing pressure on the NHS.
The campaign television advert hits screens today and asks people to “get vaccinated, get boosted, get protected.” It features Michelle, an NHS nurse, explaining the benefits of the flu jab and COVID-19 booster vaccine.
The new television advert will be seen in primetime spots alongside Emmerdale and Coronation Street as well as daytime shows such as This Morning and Loose Women.
Targeted digital channels will also carry the campaign adverts including social media platforms, digital radio and online video such as YouTube.
People will be invited for the COVID-19 booster jab when it’s their turn – if they have not been contacted within a week of reaching 6 months since their second jab they can call 119 or book online. Those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine can book an appointment through their GP surgery or local pharmacy.
The offer of a first and second COVID-19 vaccine remains open to anyone who is eligible. Vaccines are available for those aged 12-15 to offer the best possible protection this winter in schools, and they will also be available in vaccine centres from this weekend.
This week the country’s leading pharmacies have joined forces to encourage people to come forward and get their free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster jab when eligible. Alongside independent pharmacists, Boots, LloydsPharmacy and Asda – who together have over 4,000 pharmacies across the UK – have backed the call for people to get vaccinated for the best possible protection this winter.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Sajid Javid, said: “Our vaccine programme is building a wall of defence across the country and our booster rollout is now well underway with more than 4 million jabs in arms.
“As we go into winter, it is vital that eligible people get their booster jab and their flu jab to protect themselves, their loved ones and the NHS.
“This is a national mission and I’m hugely grateful to the public, volunteers and NHS workers rolling out jabs. It is fantastic to see some of our biggest high street pharmacies give their backing to the winter vaccination programme.
Vaccine confidence is high with data from the Office for National Statistics showing nearly all (94%) of those aged 50 to 69 say they would be likely to get their COVID-19 booster if offered, with the figure rising to 98% for those over 70. Similarly, over three quarters (77%) of those 50-69 would be likely to get the flu vaccine and nearly all (94%) of those over 70.
Dr Raj Patel, GP and Deputy National Medical Director of Primary Care for NHS England, said: “Flu is a huge killer and last year GPs and pharmacists jabbed record numbers of people and as we head into what could be one of the most challenging winters yet for the NHS, it has never been more important to get your flu and covid booster jab.
“Flu has a serious impact on the health of thousands of people every winter and it has never been easier to ensure you are protected, so I would urge everyone to book an appointment directly with you GP or pharmacist as soon as possible.”
Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation, UK Health Security Agency said: “This is the first winter when COVID-19 and seasonal flu are expected to be circulating together, putting more lives at risk. Vaccinations are important to protect against both diseases.
“Please book an appointment if you are eligible for the flu vaccine, or get your COVID-19 booster as soon as you are invited – which is due 6 months after a second dose.”
Michelle, Nurse who features in the advert said: “As a frontline worker for the NHS, I’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact both Covid and flu can have in winter.
“Vaccines offer the best protection and I hope this campaign drives home to the importance of coming forward for your vaccine.”
GP and TV doctor, Dr Dawn Harper said: It’s really important that if you are eligible to take up the offer for the different vaccinations – this is both the flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster – you do so.
“Thousands of people die from the flu each year and this year we’re expecting high levels to circulate as we head into winter. With the added threat of further COVID-19 and our immunity wavering, it’s so vital that people get protected against both these deadly viruses.
“This is a huge drive and we need everyone do their part by protecting themselves, and those around them. You can get your COVID-19 booster and flu vaccinations at vaccination centres, GPs or community pharmacists so please, make sure to book your appointment as soon as you’re invited.
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, Chief Executive Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, said: “Community pharmacies are already on track to smash last year’s flu vaccination record this season which showcases that patients are keen to get protection against the flu.
“Pharmacies, bravely remained open throughout the pandemic despite the risks and are increasingly seen as first port of call for members of the community to meet their basic healthcare needs.
“They provide accessibility and convenience for patients to get their flu vaccination. As we are approaching winter and with the potential higher cases of Covid, it is essential that all eligible patients get vaccinated.”
Marc Donovan, Chief Pharmacist at Boots, said: “Boots offers free NHS and private flu jabs and are seeing high demand this year. We have already taken over one million flu jab bookings to date but there are still plenty of appointments available at our pharmacies across the UK.
“Boots is also supporting the NHS to deliver COVID-19 booster jabs this winter at select pharmacies, offering a free flu jab at the same time to all eligible patients. Having both vaccines offers optimum protection from getting seriously unwell from these viruses in the coming months.”
Victoria Steele, Superintendent Pharmacist at LloydsPharmacy, said: “It is very likely that we’ll see much greater levels of transmission of the influenza virus this winter. Immunity and protection are increasingly at the forefront of our minds, and we have seen this through the high volume of flu bookings at LloydsPharmacy this year and through increased sales of winter medicines, as many start to take precautions as we head into cold and flu season.
“It is important that we all do what we can to protect ourselves and loved ones this winter by getting both the flu vaccine and the COVID booster vaccine, for those who are eligible.
“I’d encourage people to book as soon as possible, as it does take time for the body to develop its antibodies after any vaccine. You can book your appointment for a flu vaccine online or by visiting your local LloydsPharmacy.”
‘Incredibly concerning’ that Government is not taking more action to protect public against Covid, warns BMA
Responding to the press conference given by Health Secretary Sajid Javid on Wedneday in which he said that the number of Covid cases are expected to rise to 100,000 a day and that the Westminster Government would not be implementing its ‘Plan B’ at this stage, BMA council chair Dr Chaand Nagpaul said: “The Westminster Government said it would enact ‘Plan B’ to prevent the NHS from being overwhelmed; as doctors working on the frontline, we can categorically say that time is now.
“By the Health Secretary’s own admission we could soon see 100,000 cases a day and we now have the same number of weekly Covid deaths as we had during March, when the country was in lockdown. It is therefore incredibly concerning that he is not willing to take immediate action to save lives and to protect the NHS. Especially as we head into winter, when the NHS is in the grips of tackling the largest backlog of care, with an already depleted and exhausted workforce.
“The Government has taken its foot off the brake, giving the impression that the pandemic is behind us and that life has returned to normal. The reality today is an unacceptable rate of infections, hospitalisations and deaths, unheard of in similar European nations. In comparison to France, we have more than 10 times the number of cases and almost four times as many deaths per million.
“It is wilfully negligent of the Westminster Government not to be taking any further action to reduce the spread of infection, such as mandatory mask wearing, physical distancing and ventilation requirements in high-risk settings, particularly indoor crowded spaces. These are measures that are the norm in many other nations.
“While new treatments are always welcome, the UK Government itself has said these will not be available to patients until at least the end of the year, but urgent action is needed now to stem the scale of suffering and the real risk of overwhelming the NHS.
“It’s vital that the Government does everything to ensure it is made as simple and easy as possible for people to receive their booster, or even their first and second jab, especially in groups where uptake is lower. However, relying on the vaccination programme alone without other measures will not be sufficient to prevent rising infection rates, illness and deaths, given that no vaccine is 100% effective.
“Only last week two select committees found the UK was an international outlier when it came to public health policy during this crisis. We are rapidly approaching a position where, yet again, the Government is delaying for too long, and equivocating over taking action. This is the time to learn the lessons of the past and act fast, or else we will face far more extreme measures later.”
Trick or Treat: Morrisons launches two Halloween-themed pizzas
– Morrisons Dirt ‘n’ Worms Pizza is a sweet treat –
– Morrisons Spicy Fright Feast Pizza has hidden layers of Scotch bonnet chilli sauce –
– Freshly made from Morrisons in-store pizza counters –
Morrisons has launched a Dirt ‘n’ Worms Pizza – which is sure to have families and friends up and down the UK squirming as they tuck in this Halloween.
The Dirt ‘n’ Worms Pizza has a 10 inch stonebaked base and is topped with squidgy chocolate soil cookie dough, chocolate chunks and strawberry worms. The perfect sweet treat to share.
Morrisons pizzas are a customer favourite and priced at just £2.89, the Dirt ‘n’ Worms is a fraction of the cost of similar limited-edition or sweet pizzas from other high-street chains.
For those who dare, Morrisons is also launching a 14 inch Spicy Fright Pizza for just £3.89.
The Spicy Fright Feast Pizza has a stonebaked base with hidden layers of Scotch bonnet hot chilli sauce, slices of jalapeño pepperoni, spicy chicken breast, chilli cheese and is topped with hot chillies for spice fang-atics to enjoy.
Mark Pearson, Buying Manager at Morrisons, said: “These pizzas are two of the spookiest we’ve ever made. Whether sweet or savoury is your thing, both are sure to be crowd pleasers and will keep everyone happy this Halloween.”
Morrisons foodmakers will prepare the pizzas fresh in-store every morning for trick or treating customers to pick up throughout the day from Morrisons in-store pizza counter.
Vet charity warn fearful pets face fireworks misery
As Bonfire Night approaches, pet owners may find themselves more stressed than excited by the prospect.
Vet charity PDSA is urging owners to take preventive action – especially those who took on a pet during the pandemic – in a bid to reduce the extreme distress and suffering that fireworks can cause for many of our four-legged friends.
Our pets’ enhanced senses mean they can find the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks overwhelming, which can lead to severe anxiety and trauma.
PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “The firework season may be an especially difficult time for pups who were raised during lockdown – our 2021 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report* shows that 15 per cent of UK dogs (139,000) obtained during the pandemic are showing signs of fear.
“One well recognised fear in dogs is noise phobias, and our previous research reports that 40% of dogs are afraid of fireworks. Of those dogs owned before the pandemic, our research revealed 3% of dogs (260,000) were reported as showing signs of fear, so it’s unknown what the impact will be come November.
“Thankfully, there are simple steps to reduce distress in our furry family members – the sooner you can start preparing the better. While some pets who are very affected by fireworks can take months of training to make them more comfortable with the bangs and flashes, there are still plenty of things you can do now to help. PDSA has produced a free guide to help owners lessen the impact of this stressful period.”
PDSA’s top tips on tackling fireworks phobias include:
Start early
The earlier you can start your pre-fireworks prep, the better – aim to start getting them used to the bangs and whistles at least six weeks prior to Bonfire Night or other big occasions. Play firework noises quietly throughout the house and pair these with their favourite treat. If they show any signs of stress, stop the noises, and try again at a lower volume when they are not reacting. Continue to do this all year round, so your pet builds up positive associations with these sounds.
Secure your garden
Secure your home and garden in advance, as fearful furry friends may panic and scarper. Ensure any ‘escape routes’ – such as holes in fences – are inaccessible.
Set up a hideaway
Create a ‘den’ in a quiet room or cupboard, which your pet can use as a safe space to hide in. It’s important that your pet already views this space as a safe place that they can escape to. Make it extra cosy with blankets and their favourite toys and treats, and add pillows or cushions to help absorb the loud noises – you can also do the same to hutches for smaller four-legged friends, who may also appreciate some extra bedding to hide away in.
Create calm vibes
Using pheromone products can help anxious pets, as the scents they release provide a calming effect to relax a stressed pooch or puss. You can even prepare a calming playlist, as music with a repetitive beat might help to disguise the loud bangs from fireworks and may keep your furry friend relaxed.
Speak to your vet
If you’re concerned your pet has a severe phobia of fireworks, it’s best to speak to an expert. Your vet can advise you on measures to improve the phobia, such as professional behaviour therapy or prescribe medications to help.
For more information on how to prepare your pet for Bonfire Night and to download PDSA’s free Firework Guide, please visit:
Consultation on new approach to prevent food insecurity
Proposals to end the need for food banks as a primary response to food insecurity have been published.
Views are being sought on the Scottish Government’s draft national plan, which is supported by food bank operators, including the Trussell Trust and Independent Food Aid Network.
The plan follows action during the pandemic to prevent food insecurity through strengthening household incomes and the delivery of cash-first responses to financial hardship.
Social Justice Secretary Shona Robison said: “We share the same vision as food bank operators – they are not a long term solution to poverty. Our draft plan sets out what we will do within our powers – including introducing a shopping voucher pilot scheme – to make food banks the last port of call.
“Over the last year we have invested around £2.5 billion to support low income households, including nearly £1 billion to directly support children.
“Despite our fixed budget and limited powers we are taking action to support those in poverty, including discussions around establishing a minimum income guarantee for Scotland.
“As part of the right to an adequate standard of living, people need to be able to access food that meets their dietary, social and cultural needs and this plan shows the way forward.”
Sabine Goodwin, co-ordinator of the Independent Food Aid Network, which represents more than 500 food banks across the UK, said: “As the cut to Universal Credit and cost of living increases exacerbate poverty in Scotland, the publication of the draft national plan to end the need for food banks couldn’t be more timely.
“With a cash first, collaborative approach to food insecurity as the cornerstone of this plan, a time when food banks will no longer be needed to plug the gaps left by financial hardship is within sight.”
Most people recover from coronavirus within 4 weeks, but for some people symptoms can last longer, or new ones can develop. Symptoms can also change over time and can affect anywhere in the body. This is often referred to as long COVID and can include breathlessness, a cough, aches and pains, insomnia and low mood or anxiety.
The information on NHSinform.scot includes the most common symptoms, how a patient is assessed and how to manage ongoing symptoms.
NHS 24’s Medical Director, Dr Laura Ryan, says: “Coronavirus can vary from person to person, and sometimes recovery can take longer than we would like. The important thing is not to compare with others and to take the time to look after ourselves.
“The information on NHS inform can really help with managing ongoing symptoms until they do naturally fade away. Of course, you should contact your GP practice if you’re worried about the severity or persistence of your symptoms or they’re getting worse.”
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “It is important that people with long COVID symptoms get the right advice and having all the information in one place will hopefully make it easier for them. The information and support available at NHS inform has been designed to help people with their recovery.
“The Long COVID Support Fund was established with £10m last month and was designed to maximise and improve the co-ordination of a broad range of existing services across the health and social care system and Third Sector in response to the condition.”
The Tattoo reveals a ‘refreshed brand approach’ ahead of the Show’s return with senior hires, new creative direction and increased investment
Performance in a New Light encapsulates changes the Tattoo has undertaken over several months of planning and preparation, and includes the introduction of a new ticketing system, fresh membership packages and increased investment into creative elements of the Show, including new lighting, projection and staging.
The new ticket platform, in partnership with SecuTix, will include mobile ticketing for the first time and a new digital view finder that allows guests to choose their seats with a virtual, 360-degree panoramic view of the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
Similarly, a new agreement with Woodroffe Basset Design will deliver the latest in cutting edge lighting design and bring a fresh feel to the Tattoo performance, allowing newly appointed Creative Director Michael Braithwaite to produce a more emotionally charged performance than ever before.
Audiences will also have access to a range of new membership packages, designed to enable fans to keep up to date with the Tattoo through exclusive content and access all year round – including an early bird booking window, retail offers and members only events.
To support the new brand direction, the Tattoo has appointed several senior managers and new Board Members:
Chief Executive Buster Howes and Creative Director Michael Braithwaite are joined by Jason Barrett, who takes on the role of Chief Operating Officer, while Andrew Kerr OBE, Chief Executive of the City of Edinburgh Council, Tricia Bey, founder of Barwheys Dairy, Chris Edmonds, Chair and UK Executive Vice President of Ticketmaster and Lee Roberts, Managing Director of Canvas Partnerships, join the Board.
Chief Executive, Buster Howes, said: “Performance in a New Light marks a new era for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and I greatly look forward to the hard work of the past many months finally finding tangible and musical expression in the Show in 2022.
“We have, whilst the Esplanade has been dark, set out to reinvigorate who and what we are, and to develop a fresh, bold and dynamic brand that will deliver an even more thrilling event for our audiences.
“Whilst preserving that which makes the Tattoo iconic and unique, we will be increasingly innovative with the Show; we are investing more in its production and have recruited new Board members and world-class appointments to our Management team to imaginatively enable these exciting developments.”
Chairman, Peter Lederer, said: “This is a bold, refreshed approach for the Tattoo as we all look ahead to the Show’s return next summer.
“I’m very proud of the resilience and creativity shown by the whole team as we bounce back from the challenges of the Pandemic and help to play our part in the recovery of the wider live events industry.
“The increased investment in production, and enhancements to both the senior team and the Board, underpin an increasingly innovative and creative ethos, which will surely find expression in a Show to surprise and delight both established and new audiences in 2022 and beyond.”
While the annual Show will continue to have distinct themes, the Tattoo brand will focus on delivering Performance in a New Light year on year as part of its new, long-term vision.
More information on the membership packages can be found here:
