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SATURDAY 16th MAY
Hibernian supporters are invited to submit tributes to friends and family who have sadly passed away ahead of our final home game of the season against Motherwell on Saturday 16 May at Easter Road.
An annual tradition, messages and photographs from supporters will be displayed on the stadium screens before kick-off, allowing fans to remember fellow Hibees who are no longer with us and have passed away in the last year.
Tributes should include the person’s name, a message of no more than 150 letters (including spaces), and one photograph. To be included, please complete the form below by midday on Wednesday 6 May.
Supporters attending the match are encouraged to be inside the stadium around 30 minutes before kick-off to view the tributes.
If you have any questions or issues with your submission, please get in touch with us at marketing@hibernianfc.co.uk
GRAND DÉPART GB LAUNCHES POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION FOR STUDENTS
Art, design and creative students from across England, Scotland, and Wales have the chance to showcase their talents, with the opportunity to design the official posters for the historic 2027 Grand Départs of the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift.
Launched as part of the Grand Départ GB’s JOY social impact programme, students enrolled on art, design, graphics, creative and photography courses at further and higher education institutions across the local authority areas hosting each of the six stages can enter a competition that will ultimately select the official poster for the 2027 edition of each race.
It is a long-standing tradition that each edition of the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is represented by its own unique official poster, unveiled each October in Paris as part of ASO’s official route presentation for the following year’s races. As proud hosts of the 2027 Grand Départ, Britain has the honour of designing both posters – and Grand Départ GB is extending that opportunity to students.
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will showcase the skills of UK-based designers at the world’s biggest annual sporting spectacle, when it comes to Britain in July 2027, marking the first occasion that both races have begun from the same country outside of France.
Used across the entire event, the artworks will be seen by millions, both on the roadside and worldwide, with the artwork being used by race organisers the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) across promotional materials, digital advertising and much more, making for an incredible opportunity for two students to truly go global with their work.
The competition is the first part of the JOY programme’s Arts & Culture strand to go live, with further opportunities for different communities to get involved and celebrate the Grand Départs creatively to follow.
Commenting on the competition, Tracy Power, on behalf of JOY, the Grand Départ GB 2027 social impact programme, said; “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for two talented students to showcase their creative skills on a truly global platform, and to forever be associated with this historic Grand Départ.
“The competition reflects the ambitions we have for JOY to be at the front and centre of the 2027 Grand Départ and we can’t wait to see the creativity of students and their submissions.”
An expert panel, headed by award winning artist Lucy Pittaway will judge the submissions. Shortlists for both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will be put forward by the Grand Départ GB 2027 panel to ASO, who will select the final winners for each race and then work with them to develop their designs ahead of the October reveal in Paris.
Lucy Pittaway, a former graphic designer and teacher, who has been recognised with several awards, including ‘UK’s Most Popular Published Artist’ in 2018, 2019, and 2022 by the Fine Art Trade Guild, said; “I’m absolutely delighted to be part of the judging panel.
“Cycling has long been a source of inspiration in my work, and art has a unique power to capture the emotion, movement and stories behind these iconic races.
“Supporting emerging talent as they interpret such a historic moment for cycling across England, Scotland and Wales is truly exciting, and I’m honoured to help celebrate creativity at this level.”
In addition to having their work showcased across the Grand Départs, both winning designers will be invited to Paris in October 2026 for the official unveiling of their work during ASO’s route presentation of the 2027 races and enjoy a hospitality experience at one of next year’s British stages.
The competition will open from Monday 4 May until 5pm on Friday 26 June 2026.
Full details, including terms and conditions and how to enter, are available at: www.letourgb.com/poster-competition
To find out more and stay up to date with the 2027 Grand Départs, including more information opportunities to volunteer, ahead of the opening of volunteer registration at the end of May 2026, visit letourgb.com
PICTURES: ASO
Researchers at Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh have found that Frame Running, an adapted form of physical activity, could offer a safe new way for people with advanced Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to take part in sport and exercise. The results of the study, suggests that Frame Running can help people with walking difficulties stay active in a way that feels both enjoyable and achievable, and which could benefit their health and wellbeing.
Frame Running involves exercise with a purpose-built trike which consists of three wheels and has a saddle and handlebars. The frame is propelled by the athlete’s feet and steered by hands or arms.
Its design offers stability and support while walking or running, which may suit many people with mobility and balance issues, including people living with MS. Frame Running has recently been included as a Para-athletic event in the 2028 Paralympic games in Los Angeles and is increasing in popularity in the UK and worldwide, with local clubs springing up across Scotland in places such as East Lothian, Edinburgh, Dunfermline, Glasgow, Ayrshire, Perthshire and Aberdeen.
The study, funded by the UK MS Society, builds on work by QMU’s Professor Marietta van der Linden, which has explored the potential of Frame Running to support mobility, cardiovascular health and personal confidence in young people with cerebral palsy.
The latest study, now extends that understanding to people living with MS.
The 12-week research project, which brought participants together for weekly sessions at a local athletics track, offers an encouraging picture. It reveals new possibilities for a group that often encounters significant barriers to physical activity.
Professor Marietta van der Linden, a Human Movement scientist at QMU, said: “People with MS, who experience difficulties walking, often have very few ways to exercise safely outdoors at an intensity that genuinely benefits their health. Frame Running may provide people with these positive health effects, while also offering a sense of speed, freedom and confidence that many thought they had lost.”
The study, which involved 10 participants, showed that Frame Running enabled most people to reach heart rate levels typically associated with moderate to vigorous exercise. Participants showed strong commitment, attending almost every session, and importantly, no serious safety issues were reported.
Most participants enjoyed the experience so much that they continued attending Frame Running sessions offered by the local athletics club long after the study finished, highlighting its appeal and real-world potential.
Dr Gary McEwan, Research Fellow at QMU and lead author, added: “Seeing participants reach meaningful exercise intensities was incredibly encouraging.
“These levels of activity are linked to improved fitness, better symptom management and enhanced quality of life – yet they’re rarely accessible to people living with significant disability.”
CASE STUDY
Helen Isserlis, a former nurse from East Lothian, developed MS almost 30 years ago. With significantly declining mobility, she certainly didn’t expect to be running around a track at 59 years of age.
But she recently stumbled upon Frame Running and its enabled her to take part in intensive exercise for the first time in decades. Her participation in the adapted sport has not only restored her movement, it’s offered a sense of freedom and possibility that she’d thought she’d lost.
“I can’t hop, skip, jump, and I certainly can’t run. But Frame Running has changed my whole mindset. Instead of focusing on what I can’t do, I look forward to what I can do.”
Helen trains once or twice a week with Team East Lothian at Meadowmill stadium in Prestonpans.
She said: “It gets your heart rate up, your blood pumping and your legs moving. Afterwards, my hips and legs feel far looser, and my pain is reduced. I can now do intensive bursts of exercise, which would have been impossible before, and I’m working up to a 5k in one go.
“Frame Running has transformed what is physically possible for me. It’s restored my independence, confidence and joy. It’s made me feel alive again.”
While the study was small and exploratory, the findings mark an important next step in a research journey that has already shown Frame Running to be beneficial for other disability groups.
Caitlin Astbury, Senior Research Communications Manager at the MS Society, said: “Research shows being physically active can improve mobility, muscle strength and mood, and help manage MS symptoms like balance problems and fatigue. But we also know it can be difficult for people with advanced MS to find an exercise routine that works for them.
“This research from QMU provides early but promising evidence that Frame Running could be a safe and enjoyable way for people with mobility difficulties to take part in moderate to intense exercise.
“There are more than 17,000 people living with MS in Scotland, and over 150,000 people in the UK. The condition affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord and impacts how people move, think, and feel. Studies like this help to identify and raise awareness of different types of exercise that people with MS may benefit from. We hope to see more research in this area in the future.”
Dr McEwan concluded: “This study adds to a growing body of evidence showing that Frame Running can transform what is possible for people with mobility impairments.
We would therefore encourage more people with MS and other mobility issues to try Frame Running. We’d also love to see further development of Frame Running groups in the community such as within athletics clubs across Scotland and beyond, so that more people with MS have easy access to the sport, equipment and the joy and camaraderie often associated with being part of a sports club.”
To find out more about the research view the research paper.
The Hailes Quarry Park course was officially opened this week by the Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Margaret Graham.
Disc golf is played in a similar way to traditional golf, but instead of clubs and balls, players throw a flying disc towards a fixed metal basket. Each hole begins at a designated tee area, with players continuing from where their previous throw lands until they reach the target.
With more than 12,000 courses worldwide, disc golf is one of the fastest-growing sports globally. Despite its popularity, the nearest course to Edinburgh was located in Dunbar and required an entry fee.
The new course is free to use and open to everyone, offering a great opportunity for individuals, families, and groups to get outdoors and try something new.
Supported by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), it has been developed and will be maintained by the newly established Edinburgh Disc Golf Community (EDGC), helping to grow the sport locally.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “It’s fantastic to see more opportunities like this being introduced at Hailes Quarry Park. Having activities that are free and open to all makes a real difference, and I hope it encourages people of all ages to come along and give disc golf a go.
“I had such a great time having a shot on the course during the launch and I’m sure this will be a valuable addition for the community.
“Supporting people to be more active is a key priority, and initiatives like this play an important role in making that happen.”
Edinburgh Disc Golf Community member, Peter Dawson, said: “It is brilliant to finally be opening Edinburgh’s first disc golf course!
“The Scottish Open was first held on the Isle of Mull in 1992 and since then disc golf courses have been popping up all around Scotland so it’s brilliant to finally be opening Edinburgh’s first course!
“The Edinburgh Disc Golf Community formed in 2023 to bring disc golf to the city so it’s very exciting to see all our plans become a reality. Hailes Quarry Park is the perfect location, and we are incredibly grateful to the local community for their warm welcome to ‘The Quarry’.
“We can’t wait to share this fast growing, free to play, inclusive sport and welcome them into the community – if you can throw a frisbee you can play Disc Golf!”
Edinburgh Castle became a shining tribute to Scotland’s female footballers on Saturday night, with striking images of players of all ages and stages projected onto the iconic landmark to mark ScottishPower signing up to support the women’s game for another three years.
From the Castle Esplanade, players, coaches and parents gathered at dusk as the historic fortress was illuminated with projected footage showcasing the journeys of young players developing into emerging professionals alongside existing stars and professional players, bringing to life what is increasingly possible through ScottishPower’s continued support.
The projection marks the extension of ScottishPower’s exclusive Principal Partnership with Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) and the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL), first announced back in 2023 as the biggest single investment in Scottish women’s football.
The leading green energy company also confirmed it will continue to sponsor the Scottish Youth Challenge Cups at all three age groups, SWF’s National & Regional league cups and is again backing the fast-growing Scottish Women’s Highlands and Islands League and Cup.
Over the next three years, ScottishPower will continue to actively support both the SWF and the SWPL as they accelerate the growth of the women’s game, all the way from grassroots to elite up and down the country.
Keith Anderson, ScottishPower Chief Executive, said: “At ScottishPower, we’re committed to equality of opportunity, and over the past three years our partnership with Scottish Women’s Football and the Scottish Women’s Premier League has shown just how powerful the right support can be for girls and women across Scotland.
“We’re proud to back the elite end of the game, but just as importantly, to help strengthen the entire pathway – from grassroots and youth football right through to the highest level.
“Together, we’ve focused on making a real, practical impact, from providing kit and boots to girls across the country to supporting development in areas like the Highlands and Islands that can too often be overlooked.
“Renewing our support for another three years is a clear statement of our intent. We’re in this for the long term, committed to building momentum and helping women’s football in Scotland reach its full potential.”
Aileen Campbell, CEO at Scottish Women’s Football, added: “ScottishPower’s continued commitment is a hugely important vote of confidence in the women’s and girls’ game across the country.
“This partnership has already helped us strengthen the foundations of football in communities, supporting participation, improving the player pathway, and creating more opportunities for girls to stay in the sport and progress, whatever their starting point.
“The continuation of support for our National and Regional cups, the Youth Challenge Cups and the Highlands and Islands League and Cup is especially significant, because it reaches players and volunteers at every level. We’re proud of what has been achieved so far, and we’re excited to keep building real momentum over the next three years.”
Fiona McIntyre, Managing Director of Scottish Women’s Premier League, said: “This renewal is a powerful statement about the future of women’s football in Scotland.
“The SWPL has been on a clear journey of growth in standards, visibility and ambition, and having a long-term principal partner like ScottishPower enables our clubs and players to keep driving progress both on and off the pitch.
“Crucially, it also strengthens the connection between the top of the game and the grassroots and youth pathway, ensuring young players across Scotland can see a clear and achievable future in football.
“We’re immensely grateful for ScottishPower’s continued belief in what women’s football can become and the positive impact it can have on communities nationwide.”
ScottishPower is at the heart of communities across the country, whether it’s through the thousands of green jobs being created, the renewable power it generates or the secure, stable electricity it supplies –keeping the lights on from power to plug.
This landmark football partnership aligns with parent company, Iberdrola, which has been promoting equality through sport since 2016, through competitions and federations in Spain and Brazil.
Outside the UK, it supports more than 100 competitions, 32 of them as Iberdrola leagues, reaching an estimated 600,000 female athletes.
Ahead of Scotland meeting Brazil once again in the upcoming Men’s FIFA World Cup 2026, Scottish football superfan and one of the UK’s most critically acclaimed comedians Kevin Bridges is undertaking an international journey to examine the contemporary state of football and its cultural significance.
Travelling to locations including Brazil, Scotland and the USA, the programme explores how football is experienced across different communities and environments.
Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game (1×60’) is a brand-new commission for BBC Scotland, BBC One and iPlayer and will be made by Bango Studios, the production company established by BAFTA, RTS and Grierson-winning producers Emily Hudd and Iain Wimbush.
The special will follow Bridges as he engages with players, supporters and local voices to understand the role football plays today, examining themes of identity, community and change, and how the meaning of the game may have evolved over time.
For the first time in 28 years Scotland are going to the FIFA Men’s World Cup. And, in a beautiful coincidence (or nightmare) they’re playing Brazil again. It’s indisputably the biggest sporting event in Scotland’s recent memory and gives Scotland the opportunity to score their first ever victory over Brazil and a result that would instantly become one of the most memorable in Scottish football history.
Part travel adventure and part football investigation, Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game will see Kevin immerse himself in the deep-rooted relationship with football found across the world. And it’s Kevin’s own personal mission to see whether the joy of football he experienced in the 1998 World Cup still exists in football today.
Kevin Bridges said: “I’ve been a football fan for as long as I can remember, I was 11 years old when Scotland last qualified for the World Cup, a lot has changed about football since then and like a lot of people, I’ve become a little disillusioned with where the game is headed.
“I’m excited to be setting out on this mission; to see if the game still has a soul and that its beauty is not yet lost.”
Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC, said: “Kevin Bridges is one of the UK’s most beloved comedians, as well as a lifelong football obsessive.
“For the first time in 28 years, Scotland are back in the World Cup, and so Kevin’s off on an international journey to explore the contemporary state of football, its cultural significance and enduring appeal, in the hope he can bring home a few tips.
“We cannot wait to bring Kevin’s adventures to screen ahead of the BBC’s coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup this year.”
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning, BBC Scotland, said: “Kevin will be treating audiences to his trademark wit on a journey which will be a perfect warm-up to Scotland’s return to the World Cup stage.
“He combines genuine admiration for Brazil’s footballing prowess with the traditional passion of a proud Scotland supporter. The result is a win for viewers – a documentary that’s funny, curious, and heartfelt.”
Iain Wimbush, Executive Producer for Bango Studios, said: “We all know what an incredible talent Kevin is – and it’s an honour to work with him on this passion project and create his own personal countdown to the world cup.”
Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game will air ahead of the BBC’s coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026.
Fans will be able to watch the highly anticipated final match of Group C, Scotland v Brazil, live from the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on BBC One and BBC iPlayer as part of the BBC’s extensive coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup. The match itself kicks off at 11pm (BST) on 24 June 2026.
Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game (1 x 60’) is a Bango Studios production, co-commissioned by BBC Scotland and BBC Entertainment, for BBC One, BBC Scotland and iPlayer.
Commissioners for the BBC are Neil McCallum for BBC Entertainment and Heather Kane-Darling for BBC Scotland. Iain Wimbush is the Executive Producer for Bango Studios. It will be produced by Liam O’Hare, and directed by BAFTA award winning director, Tommy Forbes.
John Swinney has called on FIFA to end dynamic pricing for World Cup tickets after supporters were hit with eye-watering costs to follow Scotland this summer.
The First Minister has written to FIFA President Gianni Infantino urging him to introduce a fairer ticketing model, warning that too many members of the Tartan Army risk being priced out of Scotland’s first men’s World Cup since 1998.
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney said: “The Tartan Army are the greatest supporters in the world, and have waited almost 30 years for the World Cup. They should not be priced out by dynamic ticket pricing.
“I’ve written to FIFA to urge fairer and more affordable prices. Football should be about fans, not finances.”
Full letter from the First Minister to FIFA President Gianni Infantino:
Dear Gianni Infantino,
As you will know, this summer Scotland will return to the men’s World Cup for the first time since 1998.
Our victory against Denmark led to the most remarkable scenes as people across Scotland celebrated one of the proudest moments in our recent sporting memory.
Steve Clarke and the team have instilled a sense of confidence and pride in our country that only our national game can bring.
That incredible moment for our nation will live long in the memory and in just a few months’ time thousands will embark on a trip to America to follow Scotland in our games against Haiti, Morocco and Brazil and, with a bit of magic from the boys, beyond that too.
Our Tartan Army has the chance to see our men’s national team at a World Cup for the first time in decades, but our historic return has been marred by FIFA’s dynamic pricing model that has made the trip simply unaffordable for so many loyal supporters.
This model has made this the most expensive World Cup in history and it is the opposite of what football, and indeed the biggest sporting occasion on the planet, should be about.
Scotland fans, travelling across the globe, are entirely justified in calling for you to put an end to this pricing model, particularly during a cost of living crisis when people are really struggling. I am urging you to act to introduce a fair, affordable ticketing model for fans going forward.
Scotland gave birth to our beautiful game and its management has been entrusted to you. But as you know football belongs to fans. It is now imperative you take responsibility to ensure that remains the case.
Yours sincerely,
John Swinney
First Minister of Scotland
First Minister John Swinney has met the Scotland men’s national team in Glasgow to celebrate the squad qualifying for their first World Cup finals since 1998.
The Scotland men’s national side, managed by Steve Clarke and captained by Andy Robertson MBE, will face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in Group C this summer, with matches taking place in Boston and Miami.
The Scottish Government has announced £2 million for a “Summer of Sport” football fund to support clubs across the country to deliver new opportunities for children and young people by using the power of football.
First Minister John Swinney said: “Football is woven into the fabric of life in Scotland. The men’s team qualifying for the World Cup was a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark illustrated how important football is to this country.
“Thousands of fans will make the journey to the USA, but the whole country will be right behind the team. The Scottish Government will build on the excitement surrounding the World Cup and Glasgow’s hosting of the Commonwealth Games to deliver new sporting opportunities for young people across the country.
“Qualifying for the finals is an incredible achievement and I’m very proud of the team – tonight was an opportunity to recognise and celebrate that success.”
World Cup Public Holiday – gov.scot
World Cup bank holiday confirmed – gov.scot
Investing in sport and physical activity – gov.scot
Scotland’s World Cup group fixtures:
The race distance is only 70 metres but for the packed field taking part in Musselburgh Racecourse’s famous Corgi Derby on Easter Saturday it will take a marathon effort to claim victory.
Now in its fifth year, the hotly-contested event returns on Musselburgh’s opening Flat fixture of the season on 4 April, bringing together 15 dogged rivals in a race that has grown from a one-off Jubilee celebration into an event with genuine international interest.
First staged in 2022 to mark the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and her well-known love of corgis, the race has taken on a life of its own, attracting entries from across the UK.
More than 50 dogs were entered so a ballot was held, but among those lining up are familiar faces including former champions Georgie Rumbles (2022) and Rodney (2023) – returning to try to recapture their titles – while ever-present contenders Toffee and Pippin maintain their record of having competed in every race so far.
Last year’s top dog and local hero Juno, will be looking to retain the crown, fresh from a training routine that including chasing down seagulls on nearby Portobello Beach. The race is scheduled for 12.15pm, with the runners gathering beforehand in the racecourse parade ring where the 2026 champion corgi will return for a trophy presentation.
While the corgis may grab the headlines, the day itself offers the highest quality Flat racing with a £300,000-plus card, featuring the Virgin Bet Scottish Sprint Cup, the historic Queen’s Cup and the introduction of a new £80,000 Listed contest – the Virgin Bet Goliath Cup.
Off the track, Musselburgh lives up to its reputation as one of Scotland’s best family day-out venues, with live music between races provided by Banjo Lounge, a wide range of street food and bars, and a lively after-racing party hosted by Forth One’s Garry Spence, ensuring the fun continues after the final race.
For families, the popular Kid’s Clip Clop Zone returns, complete with free fairground rides, face painting and the Easter Bunny who will be handing out free chocolate eggs, while children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development, at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The famous Corgi Derby has become something of a runaway hit and what started as a bit of fun has grown into a real highlight of the Easter weekend for thousands of our visitors.
“It’s a perfect fun start to what is a high-quality day of racing and it underlines that a day at the races can combine both top-class competitive sport and great entertainment.”
Admission tickets purchased before midnight on 3 April benefit from a £4 discount. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk
