Safety Tips ahead of Bank Holiday Weekend casualty spike 

  • August sees over 350 more reported road casualties than the monthly average
  • Over last 10 years, July and August have been most frequent months for water-based fatalities
  • RoSPA has issued some lifesaving tips for how to stay safe ahead of busy long weekend

With August Bank Holiday approaching, many will have plans to head outdoors on road trips or splash about in waterways. But health and safety experts at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accident (RoSPA) are warning the public to take heed of the hazards that often lay ahead during this busy weekend.

Typically, August sees a bump in incidents on the road and in water, with men overwhelmingly bearing the brunt of the casualty rate. According to the Water Incident Database (WAID), 83 per cent of people involved in water-based incidents over the last ten years have been male. [i]

Likewise, according to the Department for Transport’s provisional figures[ii], last year 75 per cent of fatalities and 61 per cent  of casualties of all severities were male, sparking concern among RoSPA’s road safety team ahead of the approaching long weekend. August also sees over 350 more reported road casualties than the monthly average.[iii]

Speaking on how to stay safe on the road, Caitlin Ann Taylor, Road Safety Manager, said: “As we approach the summer bank holiday, it’s crucial to remember that safe driving isn’t just about reaching your destination—it’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

“Whether you’re heading off on a long journey or just popping out, take your time, stay alert, and make safety your top priority. With more road users out and about, including cyclists and motorcyclists, it’s vital to stay vigilant and share the road responsibly.

“We often see tragic collisions in the news and think that will never happen to us, but the reality is that it can. By driving carefully, staying alert, and respecting all road users, we can all contribute to making this holiday safer for everyone.”

Caitlin’s Road safety tips to stay safe:

  • Plan your journey in advance
  • Watch your speed
  • Check your coolant levels and tire pressure, especially if there is hot weather
  • Stay hydrated
  • Do not leave children or pets in the car

Regarding staying safe in and around water, Carlene McAvoy, Senior Policy Manager, said: “We urge everyone to follow the Water Safety Code, especially during busy weekends and hot weather. What is the water safety code? Can we link to our website here?

“Always swim in lifeguarded areas and remain within the designated zones. Never enter the water alone—ensure someone is aware of your intentions.

2Be mindful of the dangers of cold water shock, even on warm days, and avoid consuming alcohol before swimming. Check the conditions beforehand and be considerate of others in the water. By staying vigilant and adhering to safety guidelines, we can all enjoy the water safely.”

“Never enter the water alone, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer. Always let someone know where you are, and exit immediately if you feel unsafe. Before venturing into wild or open water, check the weather and tide conditions—if it’s rough, wait for calmer seas.

“For watersports, always use the proper safety gear. Listen to your body: if you feel tired, swim to shore; if short of breath, float until you’re in control, then swim to safety.”

For more information, on road safety during summer, visit our latest News & Views piece here: https://www.rospa.com/news-and-views/prepare-properly-to-ensure-a-safe-holiday-drive

Third and final week’s winners of The The Besties announced

The Skinny and Fest, Capital Theatres and Premier Scotland are delighted to announce the winners of the third and last round of the weekly new Festival Awards, The Besties, in the following categories: 

The Fringe Legend Award: John Luke Roberts for John-Luke-A-Palooza! at Monkey Barrel Comedy (Edinburgh Festival Fringe) 

The Terrier Award: Eleanor Morton for Haunted House at Monkey Barrel Comedy (Edinburgh Festival Fringe) 

The Heart Award: Khawla Ibraheem and Piece by Piece Productions for A Knock on the Roof at Traverse Theatre (Edinburgh Festival Fringe) 

The Inclusivity Award: Teatro La Plaza for Hamlet at The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh (Edinburgh International Festival) 

The Accessibility Award: Thera Trust for the Gig Buddies initiative 

The Unsung Award: Blair Young and Carla J Easton for Since Yesterday: The Untold Story of Scotland’s Girl Bands (Edinburgh International Film Festival) 

The award ceremony took place on Saturday 24th August at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh, hosted by TV presenter Laura Boyd with performances from Edinburgh-based musician Eve Simpson. 

The Besties award, designed by artist Camillo Feuchter who has recently graduated from Interior & Environmental Design at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee, uses recyclable plastics gathered at the Festival Theatre Café and leftover wood sourced locally.  

Reflecting the broad and diverse coverage both magazines produce every summer and responding to the need for a pan-festivals award, The Besties span all the festival activity taking place in the city over the month of August, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh International Film Festival, and others, making them one of only two awards to celebrate the full spectrum of culture in the city.  

Winners of The Besties are chosen each week by the editorial teams of The Skinny and Fest, drawing on their cross-festival expertise to celebrate the best work happening anywhere in the festivals. The categories reflect the diversity of the magazines’ coverage and might be different every week.

People Know How partners with BT to raise awareness of the switch to digital landlines

People Know How has partnered with BT Group to provide people with the information they need to prepare for the upcoming switch to digital landlines.

Their Digital Support Helpline, which is free and open to anyone in Scotland who needs help with computers, laptops, tablets, social media, exploring the web and more, is now also taking calls about the switch to digital landlines.

Call free Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm for advice and information about the switch. Alongside this, People Know How is facilitating 50 events in rural areas of Scotland to ensure that everyone can access this information.

Contact the free Digital Support Helpline at 0800 0590 690 or read more at: 

https://peopleknowhow.org/news/people-know-how-partners-with-bt

Fallen firefighters remembered

Seven firefighters who lost their lives in a Glasgow fire have been remembered more than five decades since the tragedy.

Sunday, 25 August marks the 52nd anniversary of the Kilbirnie Street fire at a textiles warehouse.

During the fire at Sher Bros’ cash and carry in 1972, Firefighter James Rook became trapped by debris.

Without hesitation, six of his brave colleagues formed a rescue party to save him.

Tragically, an explosion occurred causing part of the roof to collapse on the rescuers.

The fallen were Divisional Officer Andrew Quinn, Leading Firefighter Alistair Crofts and Firefighters Iain Bermingham, Allan Finlay, William Hooper, Duncan McMillan and James Rook.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service honoured them on Friday (23 August), with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Glasgow Necropolis.

The event was attended by Chief Officer Ross Haggart and invited Glasgow dignitaries.

Chief Officer Haggart said: “That night 52 years ago on Kilbirnie Street, Glasgow lost seven of its finest firefighters.

“It is right and proper that we gather each year in the city to honour and remember each one of them alongside their loved ones.

“Their sacrifice to protect their community and each other serves as a poignant reminder of the often-perilous circumstances that firefighters can face.”

Plan for luxury lodge development aims to boost Scottish Borders

Revised proposals for a market-leading luxury holiday lodge development have been submitted to Scottish Borders Council (Aerial CGI of Rutherford Park and other as CGI of proposed luxury lodges).

Rutherford Park, located between Carlops and West Linton, is situated on the former Rutherford Castle Estate, and development is being progressed by landowner Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford Ltd.

The fresh planning application for Rutherford Park greatly reduces the scale of development to 79 lodges, from the over 250 originally proposed, with the lodges only occupying 10 hectares of the 80-hectare site.

The development will be in the vanguard of new era of luxury lodge destinations and will amount to an investment of around £11.6 million in the Scottish Borders.

The revised application comprises:

  • 79 luxury lodges (10 per cent adapted for mobility use), as well as supplies shop and reception/office
  • 18-hole golf course reduced to a pitch and putt offering, plus two tennis and a padel court
  • Demolition of two redundant outbuildings and reuse of golf clubhouse to include limited catering and gym facilities

While a planning application for over 250 lodges plus camping was initially submitted to the Council in 2019, this was revised in 2023 down to 150 units, including 100 lodges, tree houses, pods and camping.

Taking account of both the tourist market, recent tourism research with its emphasis on the highest quality, and community feedback, this has been further reduced to the current 79 luxury lodges.

This new modern style venue reflects a growing short break ‘staycation’ market in an area that is recognised as currently being poorly served by high-quality outdoor accommodation.

The expectation Is that the majority of visitors will stay for between two and four days, with occupancy limited to a maximum of three months, controlled by a planning condition.

Around half the site (40-hectares) will be rewilded, including the planting of a minimum of 80,000 trees, with woodland walks and cycle paths. In addition to this will be large areas of parkland, with open spaces and lake areas.

Delivery of this will greatly enhance the ecological value of the site, with increasing bird and native wildlife populations. Original concerns relating to flooding have also been removed due to this being a significantly smaller scheme. As a highly sustainable development, Rutherford Park will also adopt the latest low-carbon technologies, including solar panels and air source heat pumps.

A frequent minibus service to West Linton will be provided for visitors, as well as electric bikes. In addition, a bus stop and pull-in area will also be delivered, with discussions taking place with the local bus company, Houston’s Coaches, regarding enhancing the service. A Transport Assessment has been accepted by the Council and Transport Scotland.

It has been estimated that around 27 jobs will be created once Rutherford Park is built, with spin-off opportunities for local businesses, and a Gross Value Added (GVA) of £1.1 million to the economy based on the jobs created.

There is also the opportunity for apprenticeships and training, and discussions gave taken place with Scottish Borders College on joint working opportunities.

The company has pledged to buy locally at all times where possible, with a community fund on offer to invest in community-led projects.

A spokesperson for Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford Ltd commented: “Our revised application for Rutherford Park seeks to deliver a high-quality luxury lodge development that aims to attract visitors to the Scottish Borders, as well as to Scotland as a whole.

“The Scottish Borders is a region that has a unique history, culture and landscape, but is frequently ignored as a destination, often due to a lack of high-quality outdoor accommodation. A development such as Rutherford Park will serve to take advantage of the growing short break staycation market, as well as increased visitor demand generally, boosting bed nights and spend in the region.

“What is being proposed is a greatly reduced scheme from the one originally envisaged, taking account of community concerns, and will not only deliver an economic boost to the Borders, but also provide major ecological enhancements for the site, including the delivery of a minimum of 80,000 trees.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with the Council and local community as our application progresses through the planning process.”

Edinburgh campaign has had over 3,000 conversations with people to help keep children safe from abuse

A campaign to help protect young children from sexual abuse has resulted in approximately 3,240 Talk PANTS conversations with people in Edinburgh since it launched last September.

Edinburgh, Talk PANTS is being delivered by NSPCC Scotland, the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee and a wide range of partners across the city to spread the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS message.

Talk PANTS gives parents, carers and professionals advice on how to have simple, age-appropriate conversations with children to help keep them safe from sexual abuse.

With the use of a colourful animated dinosaur, called Pantosaurus, it helps children to understand that their body belongs to them, that they have a right to say no, and they should tell a safe adult they trust if anything makes them feel upset or worried. 

During the past year, local PANTS professionals have been trained to deliver the campaign messages and resources to other professionals and families across Edinburgh through webinars and workshops.

And several awareness raising events have been held across the city for parents, carers and children, including a fun family day with Pantosuarus at Edinburgh Zoo in July when more than 370 adults and children attended, and family sessions at Edinburgh Book Festival.

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland Local Campaigns Manager, said: “A simple conversation can make a big difference and that’s what Talk PANTS is all about.

“With the help of our fun, loving dino – Pantosaurus – we’ve reached thousands of people across the city. 

“We have been really pleased to see so much engagement with the campaign from families and professionals in Edinburgh, and we’re looking forward to having more conversations with Edinburgh residents at our upcoming family events.”

Other upcoming Talk PANTS events in Edinburgh include a family day at Sighthill Library on Friday, August 30, when popular children’s author Bruna De Luca will read ‘Pantosaurus and the Power of PANTS’ and from her own book ‘I’m Not Cute, I’m Dangerous.’

Bruna De Luca, who lives in Melrose in the Scottish Borders, said: “I’m a parent of young children and I love how the TalkPANTS message is tailored to a young audience in a fun, positive, and reassuring way.

“I can’t wait because it’s not every day you get to meet a Pantosaurus. I also think my feisty crocodile character – Fifi – would fully support the TalkPANTS message. She might be little and cute, but she is NOT to be underestimated!

“The TalkPANTS message is so crucial in preventing abuse because it helps children to have the confidence to speak up if they feel unsafe.”

Lillian Cringles, Chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said: “It’s fantastic that this campaign has helped thousands of parents, carers and professionals to have such important conversations with children about their bodies and how to stay safe. 

“I’d urge families to come along to this fun event at Sighthill Library or look out for other events on our web pages to learn more about the TalkPANTS message.”

As well as book readings there will be facepainting, colouring, games and singing and dancing at the event which runs from 1pm until 2.30pm.

For more information about other events taking place in Edinburgh, visit: 

EdinburghTalkPANTS

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC’s free and confidential helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email: help@NSPCC.org.uk for advice.

Children and young people can contact Childline about anything that may be worrying them by calling 0800 1111 or by visiting: www.childline.org.uk

The NSPCC would like to thank Baker-Ross for their donation of children’s craft packs.

Council launches wellbeing platform for children and young people

Education, Children and Families Convener pictured with Emily Horsburgh, George Buchan and Lily Douglas.

The platform, which provides a safe place to find advice, local support, tips, and tools to help maintain positive wellbeing, was launched at Bonaly Primary School this week (Wednesday 21 August).

The online space features a series of short films where children and young people from Edinburgh schools discuss why it’s important to talk about feelings and share their tips for emotional wellbeing.

There is also advice on apps, information on local supports and signposting to other websites that provide other sources of helpful advice and resources which include helplines and chat-based support.

It follows research which shows that understanding our emotions and learning coping mechanisms can help prevent more serious health problems later in life.

Education, Children and Families Convener Joan Griffiths said: “The wellbeing of our children and young people is at the heart of everything we do, and we understand they’ll face challenges which might cause them to struggle with their feelings and emotions.

“The launch of this new online platform marks a positive step forward in providing them with the tools and resources they need to take care of their mental health and wellbeing.

“Whether they’re seeking advice, finding support or want to connect with others, the platform is designed to be a go-to digital space. I’m confident it will make a real difference to the lives of Edinburgh’s children and young people.”

Gillian Barclay, Depute Principal Psychologist, said: “It’s normal to feel anxious, angry, sad, or frustrated some of the time, but recognising that we are struggling with feelings or emotions is really important. The new platform aims to support children, young people, and the adults around them to maintain positive wellbeing. 

“I hope children, young people and their families in Edinburgh will find it helpful. We’ll continue adding information, support and resources and welcome feedback, particularly from young people and families, to help us do this.”

Glasgow’s Alana Jackson wins So You Think You’re Funny 2024

 Karen & Katy Koren and the Gilded Balloon are delighted to announce ALANA JACKSON as winner of the 37th edition of the iconic So You Think You’re Funny? – the UK’s most prestigious comedy newcomer competition. 

Ciara O’Connor and Ayo Adenekan came second and third place respectively, coming out top from an initial 597 applications and entertaining a sold out crowd at this year’s final at Patter House, hosted by former SYTYF? winner Maisie Adam. 

Following hilarious heats across the UK, Glaswegian comic Alana Jackson claimed the crown for this year’s competition after a judging panel including special guest judge Sue Perkins (Comedian and TV Star) plus Susan Provan (Director of Melbourne International Comedy Festival), Bruce Dessau (Editor of Beyond the Joke), Arusa Qureshi (Editor of Fest Mag), Julia Chamberlain (So You Think You’re Funny? Producer) as well as Karen and Katy Koren (Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon) watched 6 minute sets from all 10 finalists, before convening to choose the winner. 

The SYTYF? finalists entertained a sold out crowd at Gilded Balloon’s Patter House, expertly compered by 2017 winner Maisie Adam, marking her only live appearance at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Since it began in 1988, previous winners of SYTYF? have included Aisling Bea, Peter Kay, Tommy Tiernan, Lee Mack and more, with the competition renowned for kickstarting the careers of dozens of the UK’s top comics and providing essential support to comedy newcomers. 

Karen & Katy Koren and the So You Think You’re Funny? team would like to offer a huge congratulations to 2024’s finalists (in alphabetical order) : 

Alana Jackson – WINNER 

Alex Gogarty

Ayo Adenekan – 2ND RUNNER UP

Bert Broadbent

Ciara O’Connor – 1ST RUNNER UP 

Fab Goualin

Kate Sharp

Laurie Brewster

Paras Patel

Sophia Wren

Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon and So You Think You’re Funny? said: “Huge congratulations to Alana Jackson – this year’s very deserving winner of So You Think You’re Funny?

“2024’s competition was one of our biggest and most competitive ever, with an outstanding 597 applicants this year so it’s an incredible feat for these 10 finalists to have made it this far and performed in front of tonight’s sold out crowd. 

“So You Think You’re Funny? is the UK’s longest running competition of its kind and year on year it’s wonderful to see alumni return to Gilded Balloon for their debut shows including Joshua Bethania, Kathleen Hughes, Nate Kitch and more this year. 

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to every comic who entered the competition this year – it was such a talented crop of comedians and we’re sure this year’s finalists will go on to do big things!” 

Celebrity guest judge Sue Perkins said, “This was a very tough decision. I was a small part of the judging process and there were so many talented people for us to choose from.

“Well done to everyone who put themselves out there tonight. It’s terrifying and they were brilliant!”

Judges who chose this year’s finalists included: comedians Mark Watson and Jay Lafferty, journalists Arusa Qureshi and Kate Copstick, plus Katy and Karen Koren and more. 

Since it began in 1988, So You Think You’re Funny? has kick-started the careers of dozens of the country’s top comics including Dylan Moran, Peter Kay, Maisie Adam, Rhod Gilbert, Tommy Tiernan and many more. It is the longest running and most established comedy competition of its kind, solely funded by Gilded Balloon without external sponsors. This year’s winner will receive…

  • A cash prize.
  • A fully paid for solo show (or mixed bill) run as part of the Gilded Balloon’s Fringe programme.
  • A place on Soho Theatre’s coveted Comedy Plus Lab 10-week course supporting emerging comedian’s to develop skills featuring industry advice and masterclasses in the year following the final.
  • Up to 4 mentorship meetings (virtual or in person) with Channel 4’s Comedy Commissioning team in the year following the final.
  • A paid performance slot in the Comedy Arena and weekend pass at Latitude Festival in the year following the competition thanks to Festival Republic.
  • Other paid performance slots at the UK’s best comedy clubs including the Glee Club, the Boat Show and more. 
  • Complimentary headshot photoshoot by professional photographer to the stars, Steve Ullathorne.
  • Complimentary filmed copy and professional photographs of their spot from the Final to use in their show-reel.
  • Mentorship and support from Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors at Gilded Balloon and Julia Chamberlain, the So You Think You’re Funny? producer for over 20 years.

There are also prizes for the runners-up including;

  • A cash prize for the first and second runner up.
  • Potential to be invited to take part in a fully paid for mixed bill show as part of Gilded Balloon’s Fringe programme.
  • Mentorship and support from Karen and Katy Koren and Julia Chamberlain, the So You Think You’re Funny? producer.

For more information on So You Think You’re Funny? visit:

www.soyouthinkyourefunny.co.uk 

Scottish yard opens free to the public to celebrate National Racehorse Week

  • Jackie Stephen Racing is one of three yards open to the public in Scotland to showcase what life as a racehorse is really like   
  • Free tickets are available for Saturday 14 September 2024 (10am – 12:30pm) to celebrate National Racehorse Week – via nationalracehorseweek.uk/yard/jackie-stephen/ 
  • Activities include a yard tour, live demonstrations, and a chance to meet the racehorses  
  • Address: Firth Farm, Lilliesleaf, Melrose, Scottish Borders, TD6 9JW 
  • National Racehorse Week runs across Britian between 7th – 15th September  
  • Watch here 

Jackie Stephen’s Firth Farm training yard in Melrose to open its doors free to the public on Saturday 14 September to show what life as a racehorse is really like, with free tickets available via nationalracehorseweek.uk. 

The event, taking place between 10am – 12:30pm, will showcase the inner workings of a racehorse yard to allow people to experience the life of an equine athlete in training. Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to meet the stars of the sport up close, talk with the trainers and ask questions of the staff who care for the horses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  

Jackie Stephen said: “We take a very hands-on approach, working with each horse individually over a period. Learning to understand its temperament, how to get the best response from each one and to gain its confidence and trust to get the best out of them, while keeping them fit, healthy in body and happy in mind.” 

Jackie has been working with horses all her life. Following many years caring for thoroughbreds for other yards, she took the decision to take out a full license in 2015. Since then, she has been successfully training racehorses initially from Aberdeenshire, and now from the Scottish Borders. She continues to ride out every day and is very hands on, planning a programme for each individual horse for every day of the week. 

The event is part of the week-long National Racehorse Week programme, with over 100 open days taking place across the country between 7th and 15th September.

Great British Racing, who run National Racehorse Week, will also be carrying out more than 50 community events over the week. 

Community events will include racing yards hosting school visits, youth groups, charities and urban equestrian centres. Many trainers and owners of former racehorses will also take horses into schools and care homes, offering those who would not ordinarily have the chance to see a racehorse up close the opportunity to be part of the weeklong initiative. 

TV personality Chris Hughes, who is a racehorse owner and ambassador for National Racehorse Week said: “The impact of getting up close to a horse cannot be underestimated.

“And racing has created a unique opportunity through National Racehorse Week to help people meet these incredible animals, experience the life of a thoroughbred and talk to the dedicated teams who care for them 365 days a year.

“There is nothing quite like this in any other sport. It is fantastic that the events are free to attend with everyone welcome to join.” 

To find out more and to claim your tickets, visit nationalracehorseweek.uk.