GRAND OPENING – SATURDAY 16th AUGUST at 10am
Its with great pleasure, that I can announce the official opening of our long-awaited new clubrooms.
Saturday 16th August @ 10am.
It would be great to have as many for you there as possible. Remember this faciality is for the everyone not just the kids but the coaches, parents and supporters as well.
Please share this far and wide and lets have a cracking start to our new life, in our new home!
Thanks
Darren
The “It’ll Cost You” campaign was praised by Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown MSP when she visited the latest roll-out in Edinburgh.
The “It’ll Cost You” campaign now in its tenth year and run nationally across Scotland raises awareness of the consequences of proxy alcohol purchases to help protect children, reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, and make communities safer.
The event at the Scotmid store on Gorgie Road demonstrated the value of partnership working between the alcohol industry, retailers, Community Alcohol Partnerships and the police in tackling underage drinking and youth disorder.
Asking an adult to buy alcohol for under 18s is one of the most common tactics used by young people to access alcohol. It’s an offence in Scotland for an adult to buy or attempt to buy alcohol for someone who is under the age of 18.
This is known as proxy purchase. Adults who buy alcohol for children may face a fine of up to £5,000. The campaign raises awareness of the damaging effects and criminal nature of buying alcohol for under 18s.
Victims and Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown, said: ““To have run this campaign for ten years is a strong example of partnership working to help reduce crime and make our communities safer.
“‘It’ll Cost You’ reinforces the message that buying alcohol for someone under the age of 18, regardless of your relationship to them, is illegal.
“It can put them at risk of becoming vulnerable or involved in antisocial behaviour and if you buy drink for them, you could be fined, imprisoned, or both. This campaign highlights the dangers of underage drinking and sends a strong message that this is not acceptable.”
Policing Together Superintendent Joanne McEwan, Police Scotland, said: “It’ll Cost You” is a really important campaign that looks to address the various risks to young people associated with them gaining access to alcohol.
“Please remember, that buying alcohol for those who are underage is a criminal offence and could result in a fine, a prison sentence, or both.”
Luke McGarty, Scottish Grocers’ Federation, added: “This campaign ties in with SGF’s position of promoting responsible community retailing.
“Retailers are committed to reducing underage drinking and anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol.”
Tam Cassidy, Community Alcohol Partnership Advisor for Scotland, said: “Proxy purchase continues to be a challenge across Scotland.
“This campaign highlights the dangers and penalties that can result from adults buying alcohol for young people.”
Ian Lovie, Licensing & Compliance Manager, Scotmid, said: ““Scotmid has been long term supporters of the campaign.
“We understand the importance of preventing proxy purchasing in our stores to help reduce underage drinking and anti-social behaviour in our communities.”
CBeebies and Lion Television Scotland have released a first-look picture showing Miss Hoolie (Julie Wilson Nimmo) as filming gets underway on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.
The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures.
At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.
Original stars of Balamory, Julie Wilson Nimmo (Miss Hoolie), Andrew Agnew (PC Plum), Kim Tserkezie (Penny Pocket) and Juliet Cadzow (Edie McCredie) are set to reprise their roles when the revamped series airs next year on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures. At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.
Brand new characters include scientist and inventor Ava Potts (played by Danielle Jam), the Harbour Master (William Andrews) and local vet Dr Ollie (Carl Spencer) who lives with his two children.
Originally produced from 2002 to 2005, Balamory became a staple of early childhood entertainment. Now, more than two decades later, it’s being lovingly reimagined for today’s families, retaining its original spirit while introducing fresh elements to captivate young viewers.
Filming will take place both in studio in Glasgow and on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.
Kate Morton, Senior Head of Children’s Commissioning 0-6 BBC Children’s and Education says: “It’s wonderful to see some of the original cast returning alongside new faces, creating a perfect mix of nostalgia and discovery for families to enjoy together.
“This vibrant new series will delight both children and the grown-ups who remember it fondly.”
Commissioned for two new series (10 x 14-minute episodes each), the show will continue its tradition of home-grown storytelling about the much-loved nursery school and the small island community that surrounds it. Families can look forward to exploring the world of Balamory once again from 2026.
Produced by Lion Television Scotland, an All3Media company, the return of Balamory promises to be a joyful celebration of community, curiosity and colourful characters.
Lisa Hazlehurst, Head of Lion Television Scotland, is the Executive Producer, Adrian Mead is Director and Jacqueline Sinclair is the Series Producer. The series was commissioned by Kate Morton for BBC Children’s and Education. Mark Barton is the BBC Commissioning Executive.
A landmark independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has called for a simplified and more accessible application process, urging the Scottish Government to protect and improve access to support for disabled people.
Led by experienced charity leader, Edel Harris OBE, the review highlights that while Adult Disability Payment is significantly more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, some people still face barriers, complexity and distress when applying for the benefit.
While the review notes that there are several welcome changes such as the cessation of DWP-style assessments and recognises the compassionate approach of Social Security Scotland staff, it concludes that there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights based approach.
Edel Harris, Chair of the Adult Disability Payment Review, said: “Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change – kinder in tone and more dignified in approach. But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time-consuming, and anxiety-inducing.
“I heard consistently that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.
“This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible. The recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to making Adult Disability Payment work better for everyone who needs it.”
The review engaged extensively with disabled people and the organisations that support them. It drew on evidence from a public consultation, written submissions, in-person and online events, and the lived experience of an advisory group made up of third sector representatives, disabled people and people with long-term health-conditions.
Over the course of the review, Edel Harris also met with stakeholder groups, third sector organisations, and officials from the Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland to understand a variety of experiences of Adult Disability Payment.
The review makes over 50 recommendations including:
A key recommendation from the review is that eligibility should be based on the real-life experience of clients and not just on a list of activities. It also recommends that the application process should be made easier for those with fluctuating conditions and mental health problems and take into consideration the environment in which the person lives.
The report also calls for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, more inclusive communication, and automatic entitlement in some circumstances.
Edel visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care an Aberdeen-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional support needs. The visit offered an insight into the role of social security in promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity.
Community Integrated Care’s Managing Director for Scotland, Sara Murphy, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Edel to our Inspire by Community Integrated Care service and show how financial support like Adult Disability Payment can make a visible difference in people’s lives.
“As a care provider, we see every day how inclusive, person-centred support enables people to build confidence, develop skills, and live more independently.
“We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real-life experiences. We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler, and more empowering for those who need it.”
The full report is available at: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781836918912
The review was commissioned by the Scottish Government in February 2024 to examine the first year of Adult Disability Payment delivery, with the aim of identifying improvements to the eligibility framework, decision-making process and client experience.
MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
We all need a little help from our friends sometimes.
Friendship is a crucial element in protecting our mental health. Our friends can help to keep us grounded, put things in perspective, and manage/navigate life’s challenges. 
Talking to friends about your mental health, and supporting a friend with a mental health problem, can be difficult to do.
We have tips on how to start a conversation, offer support, and look after yourself – check them out here: http://bit.ly/3GVqjps 
This October and November, Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to its trio of enchanting autumn events at the Edinburgh store, helping kick-start the season. There’s something for everyone, with events for dogs, kids and families, and a brand-new autumn planting and afternoon tea experience.
Pup-kin Patch
The Pup-kin Patch at Dobbies will be a fun outing for dogs where they can dig into treats, toys, and tail wagging fun. With activities from picking their own autumn themed toys, to enjoying a puppuccino from the restaurant, furry friends are bound to have a paw-esome outing. The event will also have a free digital photo opportunity for dogs to pose in front of an autumnal backdrop at the Edinburgh store, for a beautiful pet ‘paw-trait’.
Tickets to the event will also include special offers in the pet department, one free hot drink and puppuccino with the purchase of any cake from the restaurant, and £5 off £25 spend in store. Dobbies’ Pup-kin Patch will be taking place on Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £12.50 per dog. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.
Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats
This Halloween, children and families can get ready to take part in some scarily fun activities and afternoon tea at the Edinburgh store Little Scare-lings event. There will be three tiers of savoury sandwiches and sweet treats for the children and spook-tacular tea and cake offers or afternoon tea add ons for adults.
Little ones will get to take part in slime and magic potion making to embrace their inner witches and wizards, alongside other magical activities and games. Dobbies is encouraging attendees to dress up in their spookiest costume as a prize will be awarded during a costume contest.
The Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats is taking place on Saturday 18, Sunday 19, Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £15 per children and from £7.50 for adults. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.
Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop
Guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea and autumn themed planting experience this October at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store. Dobbies’ Green Team will show attendees how to make their own seasonal terrariums with mini autumn decorations to take home and care for, starting with a demonstration, followed by a Q&A session and the chance to get hands-on and give it a go.
The experience will be followed by a three-tiered Traditional Afternoon Tea in the restaurant, including sweet and savoury treats, and unlimited tea and coffee refills.
The Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop will take place on the 11, 17, and 18 of October. Tickets are £45, and prosecco or a Luxury Afternoon Tea is available as an optional upgrade at an additional cost. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.
Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming customers, from families, dogs and planting enthusiasts, to Dobbies’ Edinburgh store this autumn. She said: “It’s fantastic to have such a variety of events on offer and there really is something for everyone to enjoy, with fun for all ages.
“Tickets are selling fast for our planting and afternoon tea event, as it’s the perfect afternoon out for couples and friends who love to be creative. Our Little Scare-lings event is a firm favourite for families, with plenty of action-packed activities, and the Pup-kin Patch is back by popular demand, this year in more stores after it was such a hit last year. We can’t wait to celebrate autumn and Halloween with our customers this spooky season.”
Tickets to all autumn events at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store are now available to book at www.dobbies.com/events.
For more information on Dobbies’ events, visit www.dobbies.com/events
Fans who missed out on tickets to see Oasis at Murrayfield this summer can still enjoy the iconic anthems at Fort Kinnaird on Sunday 10th August, thanks to a free live performance by popular tribute band ‘Oasus’.
Oasus is set to bring the classic Wonderwall, Live Forever and Don’t Look Back in Anger anthems to the centre for the many fans who tried and failed to get tickets to the Scottish leg of the tour, coming to Murrayfield on Friday 8th August, Saturday 9th August and Tuesday 12th August.
This two-hour live gig will take over Fort Kinnaird’s Summer Stage near Pizza Hut, promising all the swagger, sound and 90s nostalgia of the real deal – minus the ticket fees and stadium crowds. Whether you’re a die-hard Gallagher fan or just fancy a fun Sunday with the family, it’s a brilliant way to soak up the buzz set to sweep the city.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “There’s so much excitement around the Oasis reunion gigs at Murrayfield, so it’s only right that we bring a bit of that buzz to Fort Kinnaird too.
“Oasus are a brilliant tribute act and their free show is the perfect chance for Oasis fans of all ages to get involved in the action. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday – grab a bite, enjoy the music and make a proper day of it with friends or family. Definitely Maybe also pick up an iconic bucket hat while you’re here too!”
The event is just one of the free events running at Fort Kinnaird this summer, designed to offer visitors of all ages memorable, free experiences.
This includes character visits between 11am – 4pm from Aloha Alien on Sunday 27th July, and a Wicked Duo on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of August.
With more than 70 shops, a seven-screen ODEON cinema, and dining favourites including Wagamama, TGI Fridays and Nando’s, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re after a day of retail therapy, tasty food, or dancing to your favourite 90s bangers.
The centre is easy to reach too, just off the A1 with 2,600 free parking spaces and good public transport links.
For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit:
A partnership between the UK’s leading children’s charity and the LEGO Group will continue this summer with the launch of online safety sessions in Scotland.
The NSPCC is working with the LEGO Group to deliver a series of live events to parents and children in Scotland as part of the Build & Talk campaign.
Build & Talk sessions are led by NSPCC local campaigns teams and aim to help parents and carers have open conversations with children about online safety while building with LEGO® bricks. The aim is to help make discussions about online safety natural and normal, sharing good advice and learning while playing.
Carla Malseed, NSPCC Local Campaigns Manager for Scotland, said: “It’s essential that we speak openly and honestly with children about online safety. Linking these discussions to fun, hands-on activities—like building with LEGO® bricks—makes it easier for families to engage and connect.
“Across our local events, we’re sharing important insights about gaming and safe online habits in a way that encourages conversation. These sessions also offer a relaxed space for families to come together, enjoy free activities, chat with our team, and gain practical advice for staying safe online.”
Upcoming Build & Talk events will be held in the following locations:
Diana Ringe Krogh, Vice President and Head of Social Responsibility at the LEGO Group, said: “We know many parents and caregivers want to feel more confident supporting their children in the digital world, especially when it comes to gaming.
“That’s why we’re excited to bring our new Build & Talk activities to community spaces across the UK this summer with the NSPCC. These sessions are designed to spark playful, open conversations about online play – helping families have fun, connect, and explore the digital world together.”
To find out more about the LEGO Group’s online safety activities and advice, click here, or to discover tips and guidance from the NSPCC regarding speaking to children about online safety, click here.
Children in police custody in Glasgow are being offered confidential support from Childline as part of a new initiative.
The project, being run by the NSPCC, the children’s charity which delivers Childline, and Police Scotland, provides children in custody with information about the support service and offers them the chance to talk confidentially to a counsellor.
Young people who find themselves in custody in Glasgow are being offered to call Childline, where experienced counsellors can give them advice and emotional support in a confidential setting. This is to help the young person through a difficult time and try to reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
During the 10-week pilot period in Glasgow, 97% of the 107 young people brought into custody accepted the Childline leaflet.
The initiative was originally launched in Merseyside in September 2023, before being rolled out in Cheshire in March 2024.
Approximately 2,500 young people aged 10 to 17 and 1,000 18-year-olds in Merseyside and Cheshire have been told about the support available from Childline or seen a poster or leaflet with information about Childline.
Being taken into police custody can be a frightening experience for young people, and many of those who have contacted Childline told counsellors they felt scared and alone.
One 14-year-old told Childline*: “I’m in police custody again after arguing with my parents. It got violent, and they called the police. I’ll be released soon and I’m too scared to go home but I can’t leave my siblings there without my protection. Can you help me?”
An 18-year-old said*: “It’s not my first time in custody and one of the hard things is it reminds you how alone you are. I was meant to speak to my young person’s advisor today but missed it because I’m in here. She’s all I have, and I know she’s so close on giving up on me. I know I’m not coping and need options, but I don’t have anyone else to turn to.”
The idea for the scheme came from Deborah Rigby, a retired Merseyside police officer, who is now a supervisor at Childline in Liverpool.
Through her work she realised that many young people who came into custody would benefit from the support that Childline offered. She approached Merseyside Police, and they saw the potential in a collaboration with Childline, then they worked together to make it happen.
When a young person comes into custody, they are given the opportunity to receive emotional support, but they do not always take it because the offer has come from the police. This often results in young people being released without receiving the additional support they may need.
Assistant Chief Constable for Police Scotland Criminal Justice Services Division, Wendy Middleton said: “We welcome this initiative which has been providing additional support to young people who come into custody in Glasgow. We look forward to rolling this out nationally and ensuring that the same support is available across Scotland.
“We acknowledge that police custody can be a daunting and traumatic experience, particularly for children and young people. It is important that they can speak to someone in confidence who can listen to them and potentially help to address wider problems that they are experiencing. Childline is a valuable partner in this regard.”
Adeniyi Alade, NSPCC Scotland Helplines Service Head, who is based at the Childline call centre in Aberdeen, said: “This partnership allows us to reach young people who may feel vulnerable and need someone to talk to for advice at what might be a very difficult time. There are many reasons a young person comes to be in police custody and it’s important they are given all the support they need.
“While we are working with the police, the support we offer young people will be completely confidential. As with all calls to Childline, our support will be independent, and the police will not be made aware of it.”
During the pilot period, children and young people up to the age of 17 brought into police custody were offered a call with a Childline counsellor.
It is hoped that the initiative will be rolled out across Scotland after the NSPCC has assessed its impact in Glasgow.
The police custody centre at London Road, Glasgow, includes six cells which have been modified and decorated to improve the environment when children are detained. Cells have been painted with murals and have chalkboards, jigsaw puzzles, soft toys, books and posters to create a calming experience during a stressful time.
In addition, London Road has a separate discrete charge area with a lower height charge bar for processing children and young people, and other vulnerable detainees.
The transformation of London Road custody centre has acted as a pilot for the modernisation of several other children’s custody suites, which includes Police Scotland’s primary custody facility for Glasgow in Cathcart.
Young people looking for support on any of the issues mentioned, can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit Childline.org.uk.
Childline is available to all young people until their 19th birthday.
Over the weekend our Craigroyston Community YFC 2012’s took part in the Hillfield Swifts 25th anniversary tournament.
There were 6 games in the group stage. Our boys had a great start, going unbeaten first 4 games.
Some great football played- but in the latter games a lot of tired legs and injuries cost them a couple results but they had done enough to compete in the play-off final.
Game finished 1-1 and went straight to pens, with Craigroyston winning 3-2 on pens 
Special mention to Anmol
Wee man received recognition from a lot of other players / coaches and referees resulting in 4 MOTM awards and picking up the Player of the Tournament trophy.
Great day all round – a lot of football and a great start to their pre-season.
Well done to all involved, keep up the hard work 
Darren Monaghan
