Scotch Whisky – Make it a Treble!

THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE SECURES THREE MAJOR AWARD WINS

The Scotch Whisky Experience, an internationally renowned whisky tourism destination by Edinburgh Castle, has achieved an exceptional series of wins at three major award ceremonies: The Scottish Thistle Awards, The Scottish Whisky Awards and The World Drinks Awards.

The national Scottish Thistle Awards named The Scotch Whisky Experience Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction. The organisers, VisitScotland, describe the award as recognising “attractions which provide world class service with an authentic, memorable Scottish experience” and commended The Scotch Whisky Experience for “helping the world fall in love with Scotland and Scotch Whisky.” 

This distinction places The Scotch Whisky Experience among past honourees such as the Burrell Collection, underscoring its contribution to Scotland’s global cultural appeal.

The Scottish Whisky Awards also recognised The Scotch Whisky Experience as Tourism Destination of the Year. Completing the hat trick, on 5 December The Scotch Whisky Experience won the major category of Visitor Attraction of the year at the World Drinks Awards’ Icons of Whisky 2025.

Chief Executive Susan Morrison, said, “Each award reinforces our mission to provide an unforgettable experience for every visitor, connecting them with Scotland’s rich whisky heritage.

“I am especially grateful to the visitors, partners and our dedicated and passionate team for making all these achievements possible”.

In addition to the organisation’s recognition, Marketing Director Julie Trevisan-Hunter was named one of the Top 100 Women in Tourism, an accolade recognising leadership and influence in Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

Adding to the trophy cabinet, Annika Schneider, PA to the CEO, was named Rising Star at the regional Scottish Thistle Awards.

Chief Executive Susan Morrison also received The Scottish Whisky Awards’ Jim Swan Award, which honours lifetime contributions to the whisky industry.

James Robertson, Chair of the Scottish Whisky Awards, explained: “Susan represents a vital part of the success of Scotch whisky and that is our tourism economy. She leads a team which inspires newcomers to whisky and teaches ways to appreciate and learn about Scotch.

Susan Morrison reflected on the evolution of whisky tourism over her career: “During my career I have seen the Scotch whisky and Scottish tourism industries come ever closer together, celebrating the best aspects of Scotland and, in my view, the best people.

“To have been part of this journey has been a true honour.  The absolute icing on the cake is seeing so many people – both visitors and team members – who established their love of Scotch with us at The Scotch Whisky Experience. 

“We look forward to helping visitors from around the world fall in love with Scotch whisky in 2025.”

Johnnie Walker Princes Street all set for successful Festive Season

  • Gifting, tours and tastings, Johnnie Walker Princes Street has everything under one-roof this festive season
  • The Eight Floor venue on Edinburgh’s Princes Street has Once Again been Named World’s Leading Spirit Experience at the World Travel Awards

The countdown to the most festive time of the year is officially on, and as the lights begin to twinkle and thoughts turn towards celebrations, there is no better place to start the festivities than Johnnie Walker Princes Street, Edinburgh.

This has been a milestone year for the venue which celebrated its third anniversary and one million visitors from over 141 countries since opening, and last week was once again crowned as the World’s Leading Spirit Experience in the World Travel Awards, known as the Oscars of tourism.

Bringing in the most festive time of the year, the venue is getting ready for party season with festive discounts on whisky and retail items, prize draws of a seasonal bottling and experiences*, canapes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails and non-alcoholic hot-toddies, plus performances from Wicked Pitch Choir, all available between 6-8 December.

The venue is a must-visit location throughout November and December for anyone looking for festive food and drinks, a whisky experience like no other, or a place to pick up the perfect gift for loved ones.

Don’t miss the venue’s annual wintery projection which will be lighting up Princes Street with eight-storey high nutcrackers, beautifully wrapped presents, and a stunning snowscape to mark its newly released Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet bottle in collaboration with Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

Go online to explore the experiences available or book your spot at the 1820 Rooftop Bar: JohnnieWalkerPrincesStreet.com.

Festive food and drink at the 1820 Rooftop Bar

‘Tis the season for enjoying the very best food and drink, and the 1820 Rooftop Bar has just that. If you’re looking to bring in the festive season with friends or work-mates over a festive meal, or need somewhere to relax after a long day of shopping, pick from a range of small to large plates of delicious, locally sourced food.

Cocktails and mocktails are available at the 1820 Rooftop Bar and are complimented by expansive views over the Edinburgh City skyline and the Edinburgh Castle. Crafted by the talented in-house team, you can select from classic cocktails to something a bit more creative such as the maple syrup + five spice lowball.

This mix of Johnnie Walker Green Label, Maple Syrup Port of Leith Oloroso Sherry and the house-made five spice liquid infusion packs flavour and comes and topped with that all important black sesame cracker.

Book your spot now.

One stop shop for gifting

An experience in itself, visitors can explore one-off rare gifts, to stocking fillers and much more. Discover a treasure trove of Johnnie Walker exclusives, single malt whiskies. From peaty to smoky to sweet flavours, there’s something for every palate, plus you can even get hands-on by filling, bottling, and engraving your own seasonal Johnnie Walker blend which is the perfect gift.

Gift boxes can be packed full of Johnnie Walker goodies galore. Select the perfect combo for the lucky person on your gift list – Christmas tree baubles, crackers, a Johnnie Walker hat made from sustainable materials or a miniature bottle of the iconic Johnnie Walker Blue Label, make your pick and be sure to stand out at this year’s Secret Santa.

Kind spirits looking to give the gift of whisky to a loved one are also in luck. Johnnie Walker Princes Street whisky gift cards in store to give the gift of choice, from exclusive bottlings, clothing and accessories; or arrange an e-gift card online for one of the brilliant experiences.

Experiences

Experiences continue to be on the rise when it comes to what people are looking for during gifting season – at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, you can hand-pick an experience for the favourite people in your life based on their preferences. From experiences for those new to whisky, to guided tastings from experts for those better acquainted with the liquid and its origins, choose from a host of options and make someone’s winter.

Journey of Flavour (£30)

Perfect for a gift, or just for marking the most magical time of year with loved ones, add the immersive 90-minute Journey of Flavour Tour to your plans, and set off on a whisky discovery experience where personal flavour preferences are mapped with drinks tailored to each individual palate.

Book Journey of Flavour here.

Whisky Maker’s Cellar (£95)

One for the whisky lovers, here guests can delve further into the plethora of whiskies made across Scotland including newly added exclusive casks, Mortlach and Roseisle. With tastings of rare and exceptional drams, plus the chance to watch as an expert guide draws from a cask and blends a truly unique iteration just for you – this is a must-do experience for anyone who loves their Scotch.

Book the Whisky Maker’s Cellar here.

Johnnie & The Chocolatier Experience (£65)

Treat your loved ones to two of life’s luxuries at this pairing experience. Tap into the senses and taste whisky like never have before – explore the depth of flavours and complexity of taste with four delicious Johnie Walker drams, alongside chocolates from the renowned Highland Chocolatier, Iain Burnett.

Book Johnnie & The Chocolatier Experience here.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label & Ice Chalet Tasting Experience (£30)

Perfectly on season, try out the newly released Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet by Master Blender Emma Walker in a 45-minute sensory tasting at Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s exclusive Cinema Room. A stunning blend of drams from some of Scotland’s highest distilleries distilled in the coldest of winters, you can sample this unique, velvety-smooth whisky which evokes fresh snow, warm fires and crisp mountain air.

Book The Ice Chalet Experience here.

Rob Maxwell, head of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, said: “It’s been a year of celebrations for us here at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, and as we approach our third festive season in Edinburgh, we are looking forward to celebrating with our guests.

“Our stunning projection is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to us marking party season in style – once guests step inside, they’re in for a treat, whether they’re in for an experience, a cocktail or a spot of shopping.

“If you’re looking for something wintery, we have it in the form of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet bottle which comes with its own carrier as designed by luxury ski-wear brand Perfect Moment, or if you’re staying out the cold head up to the 1820 Rooftop Bar and look down, cocktail in hand, as the lights sparkle across the city welcoming in the most wonderful time of the year.”

To book your Johnnie Walker experience, and for more information, visit:

 JohnnieWalkerPrincesStreet.com

Construction industry: Emily takes home Local Hero award for Scotland 

Emily Carr from Kier Construction takes home Local Hero award for Scotland at this year’s Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction 

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the winners for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024. Congratulations to Emily Carr from Kier Construction, who took home the Local Hero award for the Scotland. 

The awards ceremony, which celebrates and honours the outstanding individuals within the sector, took place on 30 September at Birmingham’s Burlington Hotel at the start of UK Construction Week.

The Awards Ceremony was hosted by National Federation of Builders, and showcased the influential women that work in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire others, and demonstrating that the sector is open to everyone.  

The category winners were: 

  • Local Heros – exceptional women from nine different regions across the United Kingdom who are currently working at an operational or site level role in construction 
  • Scotland: Emily Carr, Kier Construction  
  • Northern Ireland: Melanie Dawson, Origin7 
  • Wales: Katherine Evans, Bold as Brass  
  • North East: Denise Cherry, YIRTG 
  • North West: Melissa Fazackerley, Dimension H&S Ltd  
  • Midlands: Kayleigh Merritt, Winvic Construction Ltd 
  • East of England: Suzanne Moss, Ringway Infrastructure Services 
  • South East: Chloe Xidhas, Independent Consultant 
  • South West: Danielle Haskings, MCS 
  • Women on the Tools – for those working within a specific trade within the industry who have or are striving to inspire the next generation of construction workers 
  • Nettie Taylor, Eliza Tay Lady Decorators 
  • The Influencer – for those who have made a considerable and real impact at an organisational or national level within an organisation in one of three sub-categories (client, designer and contractor) 
  • Designer: Sam May, WSP 
  • Client: Liz McDermott, QuickFix Profiles 
  • Contractor: Carolyn Jay, Ringway Infrastructure Services 
  • Allies – the only category that recognises people, no matter the gender, within the industry who are acting as key influencers in supporting inclusion and change 
  • Alice Brookes, On the Tools 
  • Claire Brown, Turner & Townsend 
  • Clare Yelland, Friel 
  • Gail Farley, HMS Works 
  • Jason Newton, Redrow NW 
  • Joanna Strahan, C2C Group 
  • Lade Ogunlaja, Turner & Townsend 
  • Magdalena Stefanick, Tilbury Douglas 
  • Tony O’Sullivan, CPI Mortars Ltd 
  • Kelly Cartwright, Core Recruiter 
  • One to Watch – for industry newcomers leading the way in championing equality, diversity, inclusion and equity 
  • Kynleigh Parker, Lovell Partnership

The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction were also unveiled at the awards with the UK’s Most Influential Overall accolade awarded to Katherine Evans from Bold as Brass

Danny Clarke, Engagement Director, England at CITB, said: “Congratulations to our award winners and to all of those who were shortlisted for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction. We are delighted to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry.  

“The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women that work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements, while inspiring others and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field. We are proud to showcase those who are leading in our industry and hope to see more even more applicants next year.”  

Richard Beresford, Chief Executive Officer at National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “It was a privilege to attend the Top 100 Most Influential Awards event and celebrate the outstanding women and allies that have gone above and beyond this year.  

“It is testament to the positive changes taking place in the industry and we must build on its success and continue to empower and support women in construction.”  

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.

First winners of The Skinny-Fest Festival Awards announced

The Besties is a new series of awards celebrating the best across Edinburgh’s August Festivals. The Award is a partnership between The Skinny & Fest, Capital Theatres and Premier Scotland

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

The Outwith Award (for best international artist/production) for Lou Wall’s The Bisexual Lament at Pleasance Courtyard (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)

Radgie of the Festivals (for boldest performance/behaviour) for Joe Kent-Walters is Frankie Monroe: LIVE!!! at The Monkey Barrel Comedy (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)

The Sexy Award for Sexiness to Internationaal Theater Amsterdam’s Penthesilea, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh (Edinburgh International Festival)

Night Owl (for a late night show) to John Norris for Mr Chonkers / Mr Chonkers Presents…Piggy Time at Monkey Barrel Comedy (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)

Best Kids Show for Garry Starr’s Monkeys Everywhere at The Pleasance (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)

Next Big Thing Award for Emergent Talent for Kim Blyth’s Might As Well at Gilded Balloon (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)

New Writing Award for The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return at Summerhall (Edinburgh Festival Fringe) 

The award ceremony took place on Saturday 10th August at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh, hosted by Australian comedian Michelle Brasier whose show Legacy is at the Gilded Balloon, with performances from the cast of A History of Paper, a Dundee Rep and Traverse Theatre co-production being staged at the Traverse. 

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 and Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival which started on the 9th, Edinburgh International Book Festival which opens today and the Edinburgh International Film Festival starting next week, and others, making them the only 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 will reflect the diversity of the magazines’ coverage and might be different every week.

Next two ceremonies will take place on Saturday 17th and 24th August. 

Scotland’s plumbing and heating apprentices shine at national competition

Three outstanding apprentices have been named winners at the 49th Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (SPAY) competition, each taking top honours in the categories of copper, lead, and renewable technologies.

The competition, organised by the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF), showcases the diverse skills and emerging talent within Scotland’s plumbing and heating profession.

Shaun Wilcox, representing Moray College, University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), clinched his second consecutive win in the copper category, building on his success in the lead category in 2023. Jude MacAskill of Inverness College UHI triumphed in the renewable category, and Hubert Parysek from Forth Valley College took top honours in the lead category.

Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, commended all the apprentices who participated: “These achievements not only highlight the remarkable skills of our category winners but also showcase the exceptional talent of all the apprentices.

“Their success is supported by their respective colleges and employers, which helps to lay a solid foundation for their future careers in the plumbing and heating profession.

“The addition of a renewable technology category to the competition reflects the updates to our Modern Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Heating, providing apprentices with the essential skills to lead the nation’s transition to sustainable, low-carbon heating systems.”

Now in its 49th year, the SPAY competition was held at South Lanarkshire College in East Kilbride. It features three categories: copper, lead, and renewables.

Apprentices are tasked with demonstrating their knowledge and practical skills, from creating intricate copper pipework essential for modern plumbing systems to managing and shaping lead components for use in older buildings and deploying advanced renewable technologies.

Notably, the copper category serves as the Scottish qualifier for the SkillPLUMB UK finals, highlighting its importance on a national level.

Neil Collishaw, Chief Executive of BPEC and competition headline sponsor, highlighted the competition’s importance: “The copper category serves as the Scottish qualifying heat for the SkillPLUMB UK finals.

Integrating these regional heats into our national competition framework ensures broad attainment of standards across the UK, fosters professional growth, and equips participants for success on both national and international stages.

“I look forward to seeing the best of all the SkillPLUMB UK-wide competitors at this year’s UK finals in Manchester between 21 and 23 November.”

University of the Highlands and Islands scoop six out of nine top prizes.

The University of the Highlands and Islands achieved remarkable success by securing six of the top nine awards, reinforcing its reputation as a centre of excellence in vocational education and a major contributor to the development of Scotland’s future plumbing and heating professionals.

Shaun Wilcox, Shay Ewing, and Ben MacDonald swept the copper category, taking all three prizes. In the renewables category, Jude MacAskill claimed first place, with Sean Davidson taking third, and Liam Marshall earned a second-place prize in the lead category.

Dale Thomson, SNIPEF Training Services Manager and organiser of the competition, praised UHI’s strong performance at this year’s competition, saying, “The University of the Highlands and Islands has consistently demonstrated its commitment to training the next generation of plumbing and heating professionals at its colleges in Moray, Perth, and Inverness.

“We celebrate their success and also recognise the vital support from employers who invest in these apprentices, nurturing remarkable talent.”

The 2024 competition was supported by BPEC as the headline sponsor, with category sponsors NIBE for renewables, Airdrie Mechanical Services for copper, and City Plumbing for the lead category.

Scots encouraged to nominate a charity to receive a festive financial boost

Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away £120,000 as part of its annual 12 Days of Giving Christmas campaign

For 12 days in the lead up to Christmas the specialist financial services group is giving £1,000 to ten charities each day – with 120 charities in total benefitting from a festive financial boost.

Nominations are now open and Scotland residents are being encouraged to nominate a cause they care about to give them a chance of receiving a share of the award money.

Draws will take place every weekday between 1st – 18th December and nominating is easy using the online form at www.movementforgood.com. Winners are drawn at random and the more times a charity is nominated the more chance it has of being selected.

Last year more than 17,700 people from across Scotland nominated good causes to receive an award, resulting in 12 charities landing donations.

Emma Razi, Head of Fundraising, at SCOTLAND: The Big Picture who benefitted from £1,000 last year, said: “We were thrilled to receive £1,000 via the 12 Days of Giving campaign. This supported our work to make more rewilding happen across Scotland – benefiting nature, climate and people.”

Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive of Benefact Group, said: “We’re delighted to be giving away another £120,000 in valuable donations to causes around the country. We know that charities across the country are struggling, and for many the festive season is a critical time. We’re asking residents to take a few minutes of their time to nominate a cause they especially care about.

“Benefact Group is the third largest corporate donor in the UK and has an ambition to be the biggest. Owned by a charity, all of its available profits go to good causes, and the more the Group grows, the more the Group can give. We know that £1,000 can make a huge difference to the incredible work that charities do and we’re looking forward to seeing how this financial boost will change lives for the better.”

Benefact Group has donated over £200million to charitable causes since 2014 and has been recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK[1]. The organisation aims to reach £250million in donations by 2025.

Earlier this year, 300 £1,000 awards were donated followed by £480,000 of larger grants in October. 

Movement for Good is funded by EIO plc, part of the Benefact Group.

Five stars for Harbour Homes’ Sheltered Housing Team

Harbour Homes’ Sheltered Housing Team has received a five-star certificate of nomination from Age Scotland’s Services for Older People Awards.

The awards recognise the hard work and dedication of individuals, groups and organisations who make a positive difference to the lives of older people in communities across the country.

Age Scotland’s Chairperson, Stuart Purdy, said it was hugely inspiring to learn about the dedication of Harbour Homes’ Sheltered Housing Team and all the work they do on behalf of older people.

Maureen Combe, Sheltered Housing Services Manager at Harbour Homes, said: “It’s our absolute pleasure to support our tenants and to do all we can to help create a real sense of community among them.

“I’m thrilled that our team’s dedication has been recognised by Age Scotland.”

Double award success for Napier PhD student as Army at the Fringe show recognised

Everything Under the Sun has won two prestigious prizes

An Edinburgh Fringe show produced by an Edinburgh Napier University PhD student has claimed two prestigious awards.

Harry Ross, who studies at ENU’s Centre for Military Research, Education & Public Engagement, put on Everything Under the Sun in his role as Creative Director of Army at the Fringe.

As the theatre production’s 2023 run heads towards a conclusion, it has won the Scottish Theatre Awards Leading Light Prize, awarded to the best Scottish theatre production at the Fringe.

The show also collected a Scotsman Fringe First Award, an accolade marking its 50th anniversary which is designed to encourage performers to bring new work to Edinburgh in the spirit of adventure and experiment.

In addition, the show’s writer and director, Jack MacGregor, was shortlisted for the Bright Spark prize, for Scottish theatre artists embarking on their career.

Presented by Harry’s production company O’Neill/Ross, Everything Under the Sun tells the story of an interpreter attached to the UN’s peacekeeping mission in Mali, following an insurgency in the country in 2012.

Harry is now hoping to use the experience of this year’s production to inform his research at ENU, which examines the work of Army at the Fringe through a critical events lens. The organisation was set up in 2017 to spark conversations about the role of the armed forces in Scottish society.

Reacting to the awards, Harry said: “It’s really pleasing. It’s been good to take stories from the army and connect with very good young artists to tell them.

“Putting on these productions is pretty much a joint effort, so it’s satisfying to see them come together. The Army delivers the venue, and being a reservist myself has given it that extra personal connection.

“Working with Edinburgh Napier, it has been really helpful to lean upon expertise from across the University. For example, with the knowledge of festivals at the University, or even when it comes to acting.”

Harry’s Director of Studies, Professor Gerri Matthews-Smith, and second supervisor, Dr Gary Kerr, attended Army at the Fringe to see some of Harry’s creative works.

Professor Gerri Matthews-Smith said: “We are delighted to have Harry join us as a PhD student here at the Centre for Military Research, Education & Public Engagement.

“Harry is part of a vibrant Gold Covenant University research centre with multidisciplinary at the heart of our research.

“Army at the Fringe was thought provoking and I encourage people from all walks of life to go along to challenge their views on the role of the Army in Scotland. I am delighted that Harry has won these awards.”

Dr Gary Kerr said: “The Edinburgh Festival Fringe provides the opportunity for us all to share moments with each other, and the power of the arts allows us to challenge our thinking.

“Army at the Fringe is diverse, creative and hugely inspiring – the performances are a must-see!”

Army at the Fringe performances take place at Venue 358 – Drill Hall, Hepburn House, until 28 August 2023.

Edinburgh Napier Degree Show award winners announced

Awards have been handed out to celebrate School of Arts and Creative Industries students

A selection of outstanding projects from Edinburgh Napier University’s 2023 Degree Show have been recognised with a series of awards, including Best in Show for five different subjects.

The prizes were presented during the launch of Edinburgh Napier University’s annual celebration of work from the School of Arts and Creative Industries at its Merchiston campus, attended by students, guests and industry experts.

People have the chance to see the diverse projects – including the prize winners – until 1 June.

Dr Diane Maclean Dean of the School of Arts and Creative Industries said: “Our students should be proud of the work they have put in to prepare for this year’s Degree Show – which celebrates such a diverse range of creative skills.

“These Best in Show winners have shown outstanding talent to be recognised among an imaginative and innovative group of peers.”

Prizes were handed out to these winners across the following categories:

Interior & Spatial Design

The Form Design Award – Cloé Robson, Rapt in Awe

Cloé’s imagining of an immersive visitor experience at the Whaligoe Steps at Lybster, in the Scottish Highlands, features a cantilever waterfall walkway and suspended viewing platform. Judges at Form Design described the idea as ‘invigorating’.

Best in Show, sponsored by Bright – Jacqueline Borland, Future Moves

SACI Degree Show 2023. Graduation Show 2023 – Edinburgh Napier University – Thu 25 May 2023 (© Andy Catlin www.andycatlin.com)

Future Moves is the vision of a careers, knowledge and learning hub in the heart of Glasgow’s West End. It drew praise from judges Bright for being a strong, confident submission.

Graphic Design

StudioLR Gutsy Graduate Award – Ben Polley, The Good People of Scotland

Dedicated to keeping ancient Scottish folklore and folk tales alive through contemporary design and streetwear, Ben Polley created The Good People as a subscription-based community – which impressed judges at StudioLR.

Best in Show – Kiera McGrory, Retrojet

SACI Degree Show 2023. Graduation Show 2023 – Edinburgh Napier University – Thu 25 May 2023 (© Andy Catlin www.andycatlin.com)

Described as ‘fun’ and ‘playful’ by judges, Kiera McGrory’s project Retrojet satirises the excesses and hypocrisies of the travel industry with bright, eye-catching designs in the style of holiday marketing.

Product Design

Best in Show, sponsored by Bright Red Triangle – Anna Hardie, Tabs

Anna Hardie’s product Tabs is a wireless organisation system for refilled ingredients, encouraging shoppers to ditch packaging. Bright Red Triangle judges praised her consideration for customers and how best to take the idea to market.

Creative Advertising

Best in Show, sponsored by Studio Something (with Innis & Gunn) – Brianna Price and Mairi Macrae, Heineken Stim

Heineken Stim takes a brief from the brewing giant to create a campaign around a bottle to make socialising more fun for people with neurodiversity. Judges Studio Something hailed the teamwork shown by Brianna Price and Mairi Macrae to come up with the idea.

Photography

Fine Art Award, sponsored by WEX Photo Video – Christy Cannon, The Death of a Princess

Inspired by stories such as those of the Brothers Grimm, The Death of a Princess subverts stereotypical depictions of women in fairy tales by eliminating their dependency to male figure.

Commercial Photography Award, sponsored by WEX Photo Video – Bethany Craig, Slow it Down

Slow It Down focuses on sustainable fashion – aiming to demonstrate the possibilities of a more ethically-conscious fashion industry which is less reliant on over-production and consumption.

Best in Show – Abi Avery, Beyond the Sport

SACI Degree Show 2023. Graduation Show 2023 – Edinburgh Napier University – Thu 25 May 2023 (© Andy Catlin www.andycatlin.com)

Abi Avery’sportrait series Beyond the Sport combines audio and imagery to celebrate women and non-binary athletes. Judges praised the project for its intimacy and connection with the subjects.