This Christmas, Fort Kinnaird will be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.
Running from 21st November until 28th December, the Winter Village offers families, friends and couples the perfect festive day out.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s brilliant to bring the Winter Village to Fort Kinnaird for the first time, creating a space for our community to come together and celebrate the season.
“Whether you’re visiting to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, catch a festive classic at the cinema or simply soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a wonderful way for families and friends to get into the festive spirit and make special memories.”
Market magic
The Winter Village will be complete with over 20 artisan market stalls providing visitors with plenty of options when browsing for gifts for loved ones or even treating themselves to something special this Christmas.
Grab a bite as you wander, with plenty of sweet and savoury options to keep you fuelled – such as tasty dishes from Salt and Chilli Street Food, and classic pick ’n’ mix treats to take home.
Gift hunters can browse baubles and handmade luxury decorations that make ideal keepsakes. There will also be a range of personalised gifts on offer that are customisable while you wait, making the gift buying process as simple as can be.
Big‑top thrills:
Two dazzling circus shows will be brought to life under the big top, providing festive entertainment for all the family.
Santa’s Mystical Christmas:
Step into a festive circus pantomime packed with aerial acts, daring stunts, seasonal music and audience fun. When Santa arrives at the circus bearing gifts, a mischievous witch casts a spell that traps him inside the big top. With Christmas hanging in the balance, Santa and his trusty Elf must outsmart their foe, restore the magic and save the season.
Freestyle Circus
For something with more adrenaline, Freestyle Circus delivers high-energy acrobatics, precision choreography and jaw-dropping stunts. Expect the famous Globe motorcyclists, the nerve-testing Wheel of Death, and a soundtrack that mixes hip-hop beats with street-style swagger.
Fun for all ages
From family-friendly spinners and mini-coasters to faster attractions for older visitors, there will be something for everyone at Fort Kinnaird’s Christmas funfair – the perfect dose of seasonal adrenaline.
Glitter tattoos and face painting are also on offer to help visitors look the part this festive season.
Availability can vary throughout the season, and some rides carry height restrictions, so it’s worth checking boards on the day.
Make a full day of it
The Winter Village sits at the heart of Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure destination. With more than 70 shops and restaurants and a seven‑screen Odeon cinema, it’s easy to spend a full day out that blends festive fun with gift shopping and a bite to eat.
The Winter Village will run at Fort Kinnaird from Monday 21st November until Friday 28th December.
The market is free to explore, with a small fee for the funfair rides and other activities like face painting. The two circus shows are ticketed events.
FREE Tickets for ‘Keep Walking Live with NTS Radio, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience’ are available now on Resident Advisor
The multi award winning Edinburgh venue’s 1820 Rooftop Bar will see sets from homegrown talent La La, DIJA & Maveen, curated by NTS
Championing pioneering music movements, this unmissable event will be the first from new initiative, Johnnie Walker Keep Walking: Live
Tickets for a night of performances from leading Scottish musical talent at The Johnnie Walker Experience, Edinburgh, are now live.
In collaboration with legendary radio and music platform NTS Radio, music fans will have the chance to enjoy exclusive sets from DJs La La, DIJA and Maveen as Keep Walking Live with NTS, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience is launched at the venue on Thursday 13th November (7-11pm). Tickets are free for guests via sign up on Resident Advisor.
Keep Walking Live with NTS, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience will be one of the first events in the country from the new music-led initiative, Keep Walking: Live, a platform which champions pioneering music movements and the talent within those. Keep Walking : Live will celebrate local artists, crews and creatives through localised events, nurturing a community of culture lovers.
The Princes Street venue’s 1820 Rooftop Bar will be taken over for the evening, with the experience soundtracked by the country’s top talent, complimented by a menu of incredible Johnnie Walker cocktails, and views of the Edinburgh skyline. It’s the perfect destination as this movement launches in Edinburgh.
The Johnnie Walker Experience event is a milestone as its first dedicated live music moment at the home of the world’s number one scotch, Johnnie Walker. In partnership with global platform NTS Radio, this kick off event will strengthen the venue’s connection with music audiences in its hometown of Edinburgh, and contribute to the healthy cultural ecosystem within the bustling city.
Ticketholders will be treated to performances from 7-11pm from three acts who embody the sound of Scotland’s dance scene now. Representing Scotland to global audiences and highlighting the depth of talent in the country, these artists are quickly becoming household names.
La La, Scotland born and now based in London, plays shows from Ibiza to Sydney and was seen playing to thousands at Glastonbury earlier this year. A champion of house music, she also runs a label where she empowers fellow Scottish artists.
Egyptian- Lithuanian DJ, promoter and visual artist, DIJA is a key player in Scotland’s modern music scene with a residency in Glasgow’s La Cheetah Club. Her eclectic taste ranges from Arabic disco to Afro house.
Maveen is a powerhouse of musical talent with genre-defying taste. DJ, radio host, label runner and more, his label Kintu is dedicated to “spotlighting under- appreciated artists”.
Erin Ramsay, Head of Johnnie Walker Experience, said: “Scotland has always been at the forefront of the global music scene, and at The Johnnie Walker Experience we love celebrating the creativity and talent our country has to offer. Keep Walking Live with NTS, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience, is a perfect way to bring that energy to life.
“We’re thrilled to host this new platform and connect with our fans through music and culture. In partnership with NTS Radio, who lead the way in music and events, we can’t wait to put on a night to remember this November.”
Johnnie Walker has long championed those who dare to push boundaries in culture. Through the development of its Keep Walking purpose, the brand aligns with a global audience who embrace resilience, creativity, and community – a movement for the bright and bold thinkers who find purpose in discovery, and connection. Johnnie Walker is on a journey in culture, especially in music, where they move from fan to follower to curator.
Tickets will give guests access to an up-close and intimate event with Scotland’s top musical talent, a Johnnie Walker highball on arrival, and a night of shared experience amongst likeminded people.
Almost a third (28 per cent) of people in Scotland still don’t seek professional advice or support when struggling to pay their energy bills, despite the support available.
Reasons for this include belief that they won’t qualify (34 per cent), stigma or embarrassment (31 per cent) or due to a lack of information (27 per cent)
In fact, 53 per cent agree they find it difficult to talk about struggling to pay their energy bills, rising from 33 per cent last year.
A new poll, commissioned by British Gas as part of its independent charitable trust British Gas Energy Trust (The Trust), found gas and electric costs are the most challenging for 24 per cent, followed by council tax (18 per cent) and mortgage payments (13 per cent).
It comes as British Gas and British Gas Energy Trust have partnered with the Post Office and 20 local charities to offer 120 free drop-in events across Britain over the next 12 months.
These events give people the chance to get practical, face-to-face support on budget planning, managing energy debt, applying for debt write-off grants, and accessing simple energy-saving measures to help keep homes warmer and bills lower.
Tracey Talbot, Interim Chief Executive Officer, at British Gas Energy Trust, said: “We know that managing household budgets remains a real challenge for many, with the cost of living putting pressure on people across the country. And although we’re starting to see more people coming forward to seek support, we recognise that doing so can still feel difficult.
“That’s why we’ve partnered with the Post Office and trusted local charities to bring support into communities across Britain – including Scotland.
These drop-in sessions provide practical advice on budgeting, managing bills, and accessing grants, all in a friendly and approachable setting. Our Individuals and Families Fund and Energy Support Fund are also now open to both British Gas customers and those with other suppliers – whether you’re on a prepayment meter or a credit account. If you need support, you can find out more and apply through the British Gas Energy Trust website.
“No one should feel alone in this – and we want people to know that help is not only available, but designed to work for them, wherever they are in life.”
According to the research, for those who are willing to seek support, their first ports of call are either friends and family (38 per cent) or energy provider payment plans (29 per cent).
It also found 60 per cent believe advice from a trusted local money and energy advice charity would also make it much easier for them to get the support they need during difficult times.
With 50 per cent likely to go straight to their energy provider in this situation.
63 per cent believe there should be more Government and charity programmes to help people manage rising energy costs.
Christina King, Customer Vulnerability Manager at British Gas, said: “It’s encouraging to see more people speaking to their energy provider when they’re finding things tough. That first conversation can make a real difference and there are many ways we can help.
“Our British Gas advisors will be available at local pop-up events to offer practical, face-to-face guidance – and these sessions are just one of the ways we’re helping customers during the upcoming winter. We committed £140 million to help customers since 2021 with their energy bills, the biggest voluntary support package from an energy company.
“Through the British Gas Energy Trust, we’re providing access to grants, funding, and free advice services alongside additional support like matched debt repayments and non-repayable credit for those in serious difficulty.”
The drop-in events are taking place in Edinburgh in partnership with Citizens Advice Edinburgh at LifeCare Edinburgh on 11th & 12th November and then at Citizens Advice Edinburgh on 18th & 19th of November.
Edinburgh Blue Balls, known for its cold-water dips and open conversations, launches its first Edinburgh Blue Balls Annual.
The coffee table–style publication is a bold and raw collection of portraits and personal stories told by men, for all to read.
The Annual is free of charge and distributed across independent cafés, bookshops and workplaces. A launch event will take place on 14 November at The Pitt, Granton, where everyone is welcome to see the portraits and meet the men behind the stories featured in the Annual.
Founded in 2021 by photographer Marc Millar, what began as a handful of strangers meeting for cold-water dips at Portobello Beach, has grown into a supportive community. Around 40 men now gather every Sunday and mid-week for dips, to connect, and talk openly about mental health.
Edinburgh Blue Balls exists to keep the conversation around men’s wellbeing alive. No membership, no expectations, just men showing up, sharing, and finding strength in connection.
The launch of the Annual marks the start of a growing body of creative work highlighting the lived experiences of men, from resilience and recovery to laughter and loss.
Featuring stories from men across Scotland and portraits by photographers Marc Millar and Graham Williams, the publication captures the unfiltered reality of men’s mental health.
The Annual also includes contributions from comedian Greg Hemphill and footballer Zander Murray, exploring masculinity, vulnerability, and visibility in sport and society.
Marc Millar, founder of Edinburgh Blue Balls, said:“We spend too much time scrolling past things that deserve to stop us in our tracks.
“I wanted people to sit with these stories, to hold them, feel them, and connect. It’s not about likes or followers; it’s about being human, together.
“Everyday pressures continue to impact men’s mental health and wellbeing, something I’ve seen first-hand, and the stigma and shame that still exists.
“The stories in the Annual are honest, sometimes heavy, but full of hope. They show that even in the darkest moments, when men connect, talk, and support each other, things start to change.”
The Annual was supported by The National Lottery Community Fund and will be launched on the 14 November at The Pitt Market, Granton.
A new sauna is coming to Edinburgh this autumn. Puffin Sauna, a converted horse trailer turned wood-fired sauna, will soon be setting up on Leith Links.
Located within Leith Community Croft – home of the charity Earth in Common – the sauna will sit alongside the urban croft’s food-growing plots, Sunday market, Populus Cafe and regular community events. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and unwind.
Set to open on Saturday 29 November, Puffin Sauna will host community sessions for up to six people, with two refreshing cold plunge barrels for the full contrast therapy experience.
Designed to be welcoming and relaxed, Puffin Sauna is open to all, whether you’re a seasoned sauna-goer or it’s your first time.
Follow @puffinsauna on Instagram to be the first to know when booking opens, and to see behind-the-scenes updates as the sauna is installed at Leith Community Croft.
Max Schilling, founder of Puffin Sauna said:“Sauna culture is booming in Scotland and we’re so excited to be adding to it.
“Leith Community Croft is the perfect setting for an urban sauna and as a community hub, so it’ll be the ideal place to come and disconnect from the day-to-day, recover from a gym session, catch up with mates.
“Wellness isn’t exclusive, it’s for everyone, so come and give it a go!”
UK government is launching its new Veterans Strategy to transform government support for our heroes and recognise their invaluable contribution
£27m in government funding goes live for local bids, turbocharging network of recognised VALOUR centres.
First Veterans Strategy in seven years will transform government support for our heroes and recognise their invaluable contribution across the country.
Developed alongside the Strategic Defence Review and the Armed Forces Covenant, the strategy commits new £12m fund for veteran housing.
Over 1.8 million veterans across the UK will benefit from a new network of local support centres, as the MOD launches a transformational Veterans Strategy to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and have served.
The new centres will help improve access to support services such as health, housing and employment, and may extend to finance, wellbeing, welfare and integration into society.
The local centres will fundamentally transform how assistance is provided, offering the first coordinated national network of support centres. They will connect to a new VALOUR headquarters within the Ministry of Defence, with regional centres and field officers working in communities.
On top of the £50m VALOUR fund, the Government is also committing an additional £12m to vital homelessness services through the Reducing Veteran Homelessness programme.
Op FORTITUDE will also be extended, putting the service that has already housed over 1,000 veterans on a sustainable footing.
These programmes will deliver three years of support services across the UK for veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness, fulfilling the Prime Minister’s pledge that homes will be there for heroes.
This strategy, like the Armed Forces Covenant, applies equally across the UK, with its vision, themes and priority outcomes a shared endeavour between UK and devolved governments. The strategy has benefitted from the inputs of veterans themselves and from organisations in all parts of the UK – across the public, private and third sector – that work with veterans and the wider Armed Forces community.
As part of the government’s Plan for Change, the new strategy recognises veterans as national assets, whose unique skills strengthen communities, boost the economy and enhance national security. The strategy is built on three priorities: celebrating those who have served, harnessing veterans’ skills, and ensuring effective support for those who need it.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “The first duty of government is to keep our country safe, and that is only possible through the extraordinary men and women in our Armed Forces.
“Our nation owes a duty to those who have served, and this new Strategy recognises veterans as one of our greatest assets.
“Today’s announcements will boost support for veterans across the UK, from better healthcare to housing to jobs. Our message to veterans and the Armed Forces community is simple: we are on your side.”
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said: “Our new Veterans Strategy fundamentally resets how we celebrate and support the remarkable men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, whilst harnessing their invaluable talent and skills across society.
“At the core of the strategy is VALOUR – backed by £50 million in funding. From today, organisations can bid for the first tranche of this funding to become part of a network of support centres across the country for our heroes – ensuring easier access to the assistance they need, when and where they need it.
“This strategy has been informed by those who it seeks to benefit: veterans, and we remain committed to stand by those who have stood by us.”
VALOUR – which launched earlier this year and is backed by £50m in total – will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is truly data driven.
VALOUR-recognised support centres will open from spring 2026, offering veterans with a single contact point for support needs.
The announcement comes after the government announced a commitment to support World War Two veterans to travel to overseas commemorative events and expanded the eligibility for the Nuclear Test Medal.
Developed alongside the Strategic Defence Review and the Armed Forces Covenant, the new strategy forms part of the Government’s Plan for Change commitment to strong national security foundations.
Nick Pope, Chair of Cobseo, the Confederation of Service Charities, said: “Cobseo welcomes the publication of this Veterans’ Strategy and the government’s ongoing commitment to enabling a thriving Armed Forces Community that is both valued and supported by society.
“There are two key building blocks to this; the Armed Forces Covenant; and the Veterans Strategy, which resets how we engage with the Armed Forces Community to support, to contribute, and to celebrate their endeavours.
“The Armed Forces charity sector has a key role to play in delivering this and ensuring that all Cobseo members continue to provide their brilliant support to their beneficiary communities.”
Call for accelerated climate action ahead of COP30
As the COP30 UN Climate Summit gets underway in Brazil, First Minister John Swinney called for swift and decisive action to tackle the devastating impacts of climate change.
The Scottish Government will be represented at the Summit by Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin. She will call for urgent action at panel sessions and in bilateral meetings, meet youth activists and civil society partners from the Global South, and share learnings from Scotland’s Climate Justice Fund programmes, advocating for similar approaches to be taken by counterparts.
The First Minister said: “The next decade will be decisive in tackling the climate emergency, and COP plays a vital role in that. We have no time to waste in protecting the future of our planet, protecting nature and supporting populations who are increasingly under threat from the destruction caused by the climate crisis.
“On my recent visit to Zambia and Malawi, I saw how the effects of climate change are already exacerbating poverty and inequality. We all have a moral responsibility to support countries who have done the least to cause the climate crisis but are feeling its effects most acutely – and Scotland will continue to play its part.
“The Scottish Government will be using its platform at COP30 to advocate for, and amplify the voices of, countries in the Global South, stand in solidarity with the international community and, in our capacity as Regions4 President and Under2 co-chair, advocate for greater inclusion of governments such as Scotland in international climate processes and policies.
“That includes seeking to inform the discussion on climate finance and justice, using our experiences with the Climate Justice Fund to call for a fairer approach to resolving the global debt crisis.
“While ensuring Scotland’s voice is heard on the international stage, we are taking action domestically to help ensure we reach our net zero targets.
“Our recently published draft Climate Change Plan sets out over 150 actions to reduce emissions up to 2040 across different sectors, and is the first climate plan in the UK to set out the costs and benefits of policies.”
The beleaguered BBC faces a growing crisis this morning following the resignation of two senior figures.BBC Director-General Tim Davie announced his intention to leave the BBC last night and he was followed by CEO of BBC News Deborah Turness, who has also resigned.
The resignations following the revelation of another ‘mistake’ at the BBC.
This time, the Telegraph newspaper exposed editing of a Donald Trump speech for a Panorama programme had spliced two parts of a speech together, making it appear that Trump was explicitly encouraging the Capitol Hill riots of January 2021.
The edit is clearly misleading but the BBC’s failure to act on the revelation quickly enough calls into question the broadcaster’s already damaged reputation for honesty, impartiality and integrity. Without trust, a Public Service Broadcaster has nothing.
BBC Chairman Samir Shah said: “This is a sad day for the BBC. Tim has been an outstanding Director-General for the last five years. He has propelled the BBC forward with determination, single-mindedness and foresight.
“He has had the full support of me and the Board throughout. However, I understand the continued pressure on him, personally and professionally, which has led him to take this decision today. The whole Board respects the decision and the reasons for it.
“Tim has given 20 years of his life to the BBC. He is a devoted and inspirational leader and an absolute believer in the BBC and public service broadcasting. He has achieved a great deal. Foremost, under his tenure, the transformation of the BBC to meet the challenges in a world of unprecedented change and competition is well underway.
“Personally, I will miss his stamina, good humour and resilience and I will miss working with him. I wish him and his family the very best for the future.
“This is an important time for the Corporation and the Board and I will continue to work with Tim in the interim while we conduct the process to appoint his successor.”
Tim Davie sent the following note to staff yesterday:
‘I wanted to let you know that I have decided to leave the BBC after 20 years. This is entirely my decision, and I remain very thankful to the Chair and Board for their unswerving and unanimous support throughout my entire tenure, including during recent days.
‘I am working through exact timings with the Board to allow for an orderly transition to a successor over the coming months.
‘I have been reflecting on the very intense personal and professional demands of managing this role over many years in these febrile times, combined with the fact that I want to give a successor time to help shape the Charter plans they will be delivering.
‘In these increasingly polarised times, the BBC is of unique value and speaks to the very best of us. It helps make the UK a special place; overwhelmingly kind, tolerant and curious.
‘Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable. While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision.
‘Overall the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.
‘Our organisation is a critical ingredient of a healthy society, as well as a thriving creative sector. We should champion it, not weaponise it.
‘Despite a hugely competitive market, I am proud that the BBC remains the most trusted news brand globally. We have continued to ensure that it is used by almost everyone in the UK as well as hundreds of millions of people globally.
‘Despite the inevitable issues and challenges, our journalism and quality content continues to be admired as a gold standard. Our transition to a digital organisation has been deeply impressive, and our thriving commercial businesses are admired globally. Also, our work together on ensuring that we have the right culture has been important and motivating. I could not be more impressed by what you are achieving.
You will ask why now, why this moment?
‘I am BBC through and through, having spent the last 20 years of my life working for this organisation as Director of Marketing, Communications and Audiences, Director of Audio and Music, acting Director-General and Chief Executive of BBC Studios.
‘I care deeply about it and want it to succeed. That is why I want to create the best conditions and space for a new DG to come in and positively shape the next Royal Charter. I hope that as we move forward, a sensible, calm and rational public conversation can take place about the next chapter of the BBC.
‘This timing allows a new DG to help shape the next Charter. I believe we are in a strong position to deliver growth.
‘Thank you again, it has been a wonderful ride, which I have loved. I count myself very lucky to have served as DG no.17. I will have a proper chance to see many of you before I go but I have been incredibly proud to lead the BBC as DG for over five years. It is a precious UK institution and you are a world-class team. Thank you all for the tireless support and friendship.
‘I will always be a passionate cheerleader for civilised society, a strong BBC and a thriving UK.’
Best wishes,
Tim
In a message to BBC colleagues last night, CEO of News Deborah Turness said:
Dear all,
I have never been more proud of the work that you do every day. You really are the best of the best.
I have taken the difficult decision that it will no longer be my role to lead you in the collective vision that we all have: to pursue the truth with no agenda.
The ongoing controversy around the Panorama on President Trump has reached a stage where it is causing damage to the BBC – an institution that I love.
As the CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, the buck stops with me – and I took the decision to offer my resignation to the Director-General last night.
In public life leaders need to be fully accountable, and that is why I am stepping down. While mistakes have been made, I want to be absolutely clear recent allegations that BBC News is institutionally biased are wrong.
In a polarised world, BBC News journalism is more vital than ever, and I could not be prouder of the work that you do. Together we have bucked the global trend, to grow trust in BBC News, and I want to thank you, wherever you are in the world, for your courageous work to deliver that.
My plea to you: please keep the courage to continue our mission. I’m only sorry that I won’t be there to lead and champion your brilliant journalism.
It has been a great privilege to work with you all.
I will now work with Tim to plan an orderly handover to ensure that my decision to step away causes the least disruption possible to the important work that you do.
With very best wishes,
Deborah
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “I want to thank Tim Davie for his service to public broadcasting over many years. He has led the BBC through a period of significant change and helped the organisation to grip the challenges it has faced in recent years.
“The BBC is one of our most important national institutions. Every day, it tells the story of who we are – the people, places and communities that make up life across the UK.
“Now more than ever, the need for trusted news and high quality programming is essential to our democratic and cultural life, and our place in the world.
“As a government, we will support the Board as it manages this transition and ensure that the Charter Review is the catalyst that helps the BBC to adapt to this new era and secures its role at the heart of national life for decades to come.”
Commenting on the resignation of BBC Director-General Tim Davie, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee Dame Caroline Dinenage MP said: “The decision by Tim Davie to step down is regrettable given the huge commitment to the BBC and public service broadcasting he has demonstrated during his time at the helm, but restoring trust in the corporation must come first.
“The BBC Board must now begin the long process of rebuilding the corporation’s reputation both at home and abroad, after the damage caused by what has become a seemingly constant stream of crises and missteps.
“The Committee will be meeting on Tuesday to consider the BBC Chair’s response to our letter and next steps.
“At the same time the Government should bring forward the Charter Review process so the public and Parliament can help shape the future direction of the BBC.”
The Committee wrote to BBC Chair Samir Shah on Tuesday asking what action is being taken over concerns raised by a former adviser to the corporation’s editorial standards body, Michael Prescott.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said: “It’s right that Tim Davie and Deborah Turness have finally taken responsibility and resigned from the BBC. But let’s be honest, this has been a catalogue of serious failures that runs far deeper.
“The Prescott report exposed institutional bias that cannot be swept away with two resignations – strong action must be taken on all the issues it raised.
“The culture at the BBC has not yet changed. BBC Arabic must be brought under urgent control. The BBC’s US and Middle East coverage needs a full overhaul. And on basic matters of biology, the corporation can no longer allow its output to be shaped by a cabal of ideological activists.
“The new leadership must now deliver genuine reform of the culture of the BBC, top to bottom – because it should not expect the public to keep funding it through a compulsory licence fee unless it can finally demonstrate true impartiality.”
The Liberal Democrats tweeted: ‘A free, independent BBC is vital to a free, informed democracy. Don’t let Trump’s America become Farage’s Britain’.
Josh Wheeler, Founder of Be Broadcast, commented: “From a communications perspective, this is one of the most significant media moments in years.
“It is uncomfortable to see one political figure trigger such disruption across major media institutions. That should not happen, but it shows how fragile trust in journalism has become and how quickly perception can define reality.
“Perception is now reality – so even a question mark is enough to close people’s minds.
“What stands out is the speed of the BBC’s response. This is not a corporation hiding behind bureaucracy; it is one taking decisive action to protect its reputation before the damage hardens. It is strategic crisis management.
“Do I believe Tim Davie and Deborah Turness needed to go? Probably not. But by acting early, the BBC is showing it understands how modern reputations work. The court of public opinion moves faster than any internal inquiry, and being the antidote before the venom sets in is sometimes the only way to preserve credibility.
“If the leaked memo encouraged the merging of the Trump clips, that strikes at the core of editorial integrity. Accuracy, intent, and transparency are the foundations of trust. Once those are blurred, the entire communications framework begins to crack.
“All of this is happening during a Charter Review, when every BBC decision is under a microscope. In that context, this level of accountability sends a powerful signal. It shows that the BBC still understands leadership is as much about perception as process.
“There is also a wider lesson here for those in public life. Politicians, in particular, would do well to mirror the same “buck stops with me” principle shown by Davie and Turness. Accountability is not just good ethics; it is good communication.
“What happens next will decide whether this becomes a reputational reset or a reputational scar. The BBC must now focus on transparency and openness. It needs to show how it will strengthen editorial safeguards, rebuild confidence, and reaffirm its role as a trusted, independent broadcaster.
“The BBC’s strength has always been its willingness to face uncomfortable truths. This may be one of those moments where doing so, however painful, proves exactly why it still matters.”
When customers purchase two qualifying products on Amazon.co.uk, a third item will be donated to The Multibank charity automatically at no additional charge.
The You buy. We donate. programme runs until to 12 November, supporting The Big House Multibank in Fife.
The Multibank charity was launched four years ago this month (November) as a pilot by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, The Cottage Family Centre in Kirkcaldy, Amazon’s Dunfermline Fulfilment Centre and other Fife businesses to redistribute surplus household goods to people in need.
There are now six Multibanks across the UK which have provided more than 12 million essential items to over 800,000 different families nationwide since the piloting of the charity in Fife began.
You buy. We donate. launches as research reveals nearly one in five adults in the Scotland have concerns about affording basic hygiene essentials in the months ahead.
You buy. We donate. aims to generate more than 200,000 product donations for families across the UK.
Amazon has teamed up with some of the country’s leading household brands like Colgate, Johnson & Johnson, Neutrogena and Sanex to deliver more than 200,000 vital hygiene products for families in Scotland and around the UK who are struggling to make ends meet.
The products are being distributed to families in Scotland by The Big House Multibank charity as part of the latest Amazon You buy. We donate. campaign.
Until 12 November, Amazon and its supplier partners will donate a third item to The Multibank charity for every two qualifying products customers buy on Amazon, with no extra cost involved. Customers simply need to visit this page on Amazon to take part.
The products will be distributed to families in Scotland by The Big House Multibank, part of a national network of charities whose President is former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown helped set-up The Multibank with The Cottage Family Centre charity and local businesses including Amazon’s Fulfilment Centre in Dunfermline, after he saw firsthand the severe poverty and deprivation affecting his local community in Fife, Scotland. Six Multibanks now operate across the UK, having provided more than 12 million essential items to over 800,000 different families nationwide to date.
The You buy. We donate. campaign follows research commissioned earlier this year by Amazon shows that a fifth (19%) of adults in Scotland have worries about affording basic hygiene products like toothpaste, soap or laundry detergent over the coming months. The findings also revealed that almost one in ten adults (7%) in Scotland have cut back on or skipped buying hygiene essentials altogether.
Eugenie Teasley, Head of Impact, Amazon UK, said: “Our customers were overwhelmingly supportive of our first You buy. We donate. campaign earlier this year and as winter draws closer and families face increasingly difficult times, we wanted to team up once again with our partners in support of The Multibank in Scotland and across the UK.
The You buy. We donate. campaign offers Amazon customers the opportunity to make a huge difference to the lives of families in need while buying their everyday essential items.
“Everyone at Amazon is looking forward to donating these important products to Multibanks across the UK, helping people in need access essential products.”
Taken: 27th November 2020
Amazon Peak Fun : MME1 Darlington:
Grant Barnes, Warehouse Manager at The Big House, added:“The You buy. We donate campaign has been invaluable to The Big House Multibank.
“The goods provided tend to be amongst our most “in demand” items, so the support to receive hygiene products cannot be understated, strengthening our partnership with Amazon to support families across Scotland.”
Brands participating in ‘You buy. We donate’ include Colgate, Sanex, Palmolive, Listerine, Neutrogena, Johnson & Johnson, Johnson Baby, Aveeno and Aveeno Baby, Mama Bear, OGX and by Amazon.
Transport logistics specialists Palletline will provide free logistics support, handling the storage and distribution of donations to Multibank hubs across the UK, with Amazon providing additional transportation routes.
Celebrating 20 years of game-changing theatre – a year-long programme of what NTS does best.
Including three world premieres, five tours across Scotland, gig theatre and a much anticipated new musical, urgent work responding to the current climate, an adaptation of a Scots classic, a major creative response to testimony from the Cared Experienced community, a call out to the nation to inspire a show, a special free TiSS at 10 programme for schools and a wealth of world-class Scottish theatrical talent taking over Scotland’s stages in 2026.
MAJOR TOUR OF SCOTTISH CLASSIC – SCOTTISH PREMIERE
THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE – adapted from the Muriel Spark novel by David Harrower, directed by Vicky Featherstone and featuring Gayle Rankin as Miss Jean Brodie. The Scottish premiere of a new adaptation of the Muriel Spark classic, bringing acclaimed Scottish actor Gayle Rankin back to Scotland’s stages following a high-profile screen and US stage career.
Opening at The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; and Pitlochry Festival Theatre from 02 October to 07 November 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland production in partnership with The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and in association with Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Stand & Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-Inby Frances Poet, directed by Jemima Levick. From an idea conceived by Paul English and Frances Poet. 45 years since the legendary occupation of the Lee Jeans factory in Greenock, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-In tellsa powerful and personal story of political resistance, workers’ determination and lifelong friendships. Performed with a live 80’s soundtrack.
Opening at theTron Theatre, Glasgow, touring to Aberdeen Arts Centre; the Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy; Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh; Byre Theatre, St Andrews; Eastgate Theatre, Peebles; Mull Theatre, Eden Court, Inverness; Cumbernauld Theatre, Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, from 24 April to 10 June 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland and Tron Theatre Company co-production.
THE HIGH LIFE –The Musical, Still Living It!Story, Script and Lyrics by Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson and Johnny McKnight. Music by Forbes Masson, additional music by Alan Cumming. Directed by Andrew Panton. After a 30-year delay in the departure lounge, The High Lifereturns in a new musical spectacular featuring all four original cast members – Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart akaSebastian Flight, Steve McCracken, Shona Spurtle and Captain Hilary Duff.
Opening at Dundee Rep Theatre and touring to His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; Eden Court, Inverness; Festival Theatre, Edinburgh and King’s Theatre, Glasgow from 27 March to 23 May 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland co-production with Dundee Rep Theatre, in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts and Capital Theatres.
THROUGH THE SHORTBREAD TIN – written and performed by Martin O’Connor and original productiondirected by Lu Kemp. Martin O’Connor’s acclaimed, playful epic returns by popular demand, tearing through Scottish history and the myths we tell ourselves.
“an entertaining and intelligent investigation into the illusions and inconsistencies of Scottish history, culture and identity.” ★★★★ – The Stage
At the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and then touring to Scottish sited locations in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland in August and September 2026.
LARGE-SCALE NATIONWIDE SOCIALLY ENGAGED AND AUDIENCE FOCUSSED PROJECTS
CARING SCOTLAND PROJECT, creatively led by socially engaged theatre artist, Nicola McCartney.
ONE HUNDRED VOICES is an interactive, audio-guided installation, bringing creative insight into living in the care system. It serves as an artistic act of recognition and celebration of the one hundred testimonies recorded through the Caring Scotland Project.
The installation will premiere at the Scottish Parliament in August ahead of touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; Millennium Centre, Stranraer; Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries; Reid Hall, Forfar; Rothes Halls, Glenrothes from 12 August to 18 October 2026.
TEN PORTRAITS – a touring exhibitionofportraits of the Care Experienced community captured by Chris Scott, Caring Scotland photographer in residence (April 2026 to February 2027).
THE SOUND COLLECTION -an audio collection of all the stories gathered from the listening project hosted as part of the archive of the National Library of Scotland from April 2026.
Supported by The Weir Charitable Trust and The Rayne Foundation.
TRUE STORY – As NTS celebrates 20 years of bringing real life stories to dramatic life, the organisation will be issuing a Scotland-wide call out for true stories from the nation. Following a public vote one of these will be brought to theatrical life in November 2027. True Story will be launched in January 2026.
TISS AT 10 – A SPECIAL FREE PROGRAMME OF WORK FOR SCHOOLS
To celebrate a decade of creativity, connection and performance magic, every Theatre in Schools Scotland performance will be free of charge for participating schools from August 2026 to June 2027 as part of a special TiSS at 10 anniversary programme. With four bold and inspiring productions already confirmed, TiSS at 10 will bring the thrill of live performance to more than 13,000 pupils across Scotland’s primary and some secondary schools.
TiSS at 10 is supported by Savendie and The Weir Charitable Trust.
Supported by: Aberdeen Baker Incorporation, Aberdeen Performing Arts, Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, David and June Gordon Memorial Trust, MEB Charitable Trust, North East Arts Touring, Russell Trust and The Tillyloss Trust.
Theatre in Schools Scotland is a National Theatre of Scotland and Imaginate partnership project.
TROLLEYDARITY – A SCRATCH N SNIFF STAYCATION at Western General Hospital in Edinburgh; St John’s Hospital and East Lothian Community Hospital from 05 January to 30 March 2026. Co-curated by Alan Grieve and Shona Reppe with facilitators, Minnie Crook and Dan Brown.
Offering patients and staff a unique Scratch ‘n’ Sniff staycation: the ultimate indoor experience for the discerning static traveller.
Supported by: The Weir Charitable Trust and The William Grant Foundation
National Theatre of Scotland and NHS Lothian Charity: Tonic Arts Project
A rapid response theatre project – creatively led by Hannah Lavery and Cora Bissett.
“In the dark times, will there also be singing? Yes, there will also be singing. About the dark times.” — Bertolt Brecht. Two of Scotland’s leading artists and theatre-makers join forces to create a project that offers Scotland’s artists and communities the opportunity to respond with resistance and hope to the “dark times” we are living through.
National Theatre of Scotland, as a theatre without walls, is ideally placed to respond creatively and nimbly to the current challenges facing individuals and communities in divided times.
CHANGE–MAKERS – Leah Byrne, Hannah Low and Andrea Ling, NTS Resident Fellows curate a programme to address sectoral inequities with workshops, surveys, a writer’s programme, call outs and research, throughout the year.
Supported by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation
SOUTH ASIAN PROJECT – NTS’s ongoing commitment to create and develop work by South Asian artists for diverse communities.
A new opportunity for South Asian playwrights, to have their work developed and programmed through the new South Asian Playwrights’ Programme with two new plays to be licensed by A Play, A Pie and A Pint for presentation in future seasons. In partnership with Bijli, A Play, A Pie and A Pint and Playwrights’ Studio Scotland.
And a South Asian Scratch Night at the Citizens Theatre Studio on 08 October 2026; Curated by Niloo-Far Khan and Kal Sabir and presented by South Asian Artists in Scotland in association with National Theatre of Scotland and the Citizens Theatre. Full application details for the South Asian Scratch Night will be announced in 2026.
National Theatre of Scotland and Grid Iron are working in partnership with Great Leap Forward to secure international touring dates in 2026 and into 2027 for June Carter Cash: The Woman, Her Music and Me, the acclaimed award-winning production, written and performed by Charlene Boyd and directed by Cora Bissett.
A year long programme of creative opportunities for schools and community groups, includingFirst Nights: free tickets and a guaranteed good night out for twenty groups across the country, the popular CreativeCareerssessions for schools, and the ever expanding Education Portal with new digital additions Make it Happen and Through the Shortbread Tin and, coming later in 2026, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jean’s Sit In and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.
First Nights supported by The Northwood Charitable Trust.
Creative Careers and First Nights are supported by The Stevenston Charitable Trust.
National Theatre of Scotland’s ever-expanding repertoire of short films, features, digital and hybrid broadcast projects continue to be distributed across streaming platforms and to cinemas and festivals. Live projects include Kinaara, written and directed by Kal Sabir, Metamorphosis, written and directed by Gillian Katungi,The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, directed by Hope Dickson Leach (streaming on Sky Arts and Marquee TV), Finding Seaglass by Hannah Lavery (BBC Sounds), The Fifth Step, by David Ireland, directed by Finn Den Hertog (NT Live). Further projects to be announced in 2026.
Jackie Wylie, Artistic Director/Joint CEO said: “I am delighted to share our special 20th birthday season, which celebrates all that makes us a unique national theatre.
“The year encapsulates what National Theatre of Scotland (NTS) does best, with our special without walls model; a truly national theatre. We are touring widely across Scotland in 2026, taking work to wherever audiences are to be found.
“We are a National Theatre that has never played by the rules. This means we can present work in castles and hospitals, in community centres and schools as well as on the largest stages in Scotland.
“We have a packed programme of productions featuring incredible Scottish talent, world premieres, exhilarating musicals, exceptional new plays, much loved classic texts, illuminating community projects and joyous gig theatre.
“We passionately believe in the power of theatre and its place in the cultural heart of the nation. In our 20th birthday year, we must continue to innovate to ensure the vitality and relevance of Scotland’s national theatre.
“We are so proud to deliver a programme that wrestles with the issues of our times, brings real stories to theatrical life and embodies the narrative of a nation – its past, present and future.”
