Crimestoppers the independent charity dedicated to giving people the power to speak up and stop crime, has launched a powerful new campaign to draw urgent attention to a distressing trend: increased levels of violence against women and girls during and after major sporting events.
Recent statistics and reports from frontline services have shown that incidents of domestic abuse and gender-based violence spike around the time of significant sporting occasions.
During the 2024 UEFA European Championships, police in England and Wales recorded 351 football-related domestic abuse incidents, almost double the figure from the previous tournament.
Additional research indicated a dramatic association between alcohol-fuelled celebrations (or disappointments) and violent incidents. On days when England won, there was a 47% rise in alcohol-related domestic abuse.
These events, while a source of national pride and community, can also act as triggers for harmful behaviours in some individuals, putting women and girls at greater risk.
Lydia Patsalides spokesperson for the charity Crimestoppers said: “Sport should unite and inspire us, and for the most part it does. But we cannot ignore the well-documented rise in violence towards women and girls that coincides with major fixtures.
“These are not isolated incidents – they represent a national issue that affects communities across the UK.”
The new campaign encourages the public to recognise the signs of violence and use Crimestoppers anonymous reporting service to speak up safely if they are concerned about someone’s wellbeing.
Crimestoppers is also working with sporting bodies, law enforcement agencies and support charities to spread awareness, challenge harmful attitudes, and promote prevention strategies at every level.
If you see something say something. By speaking up – 100% anonymously – you could help save lives. No tip is too small, and your voice is vital.
The first semi-final, held on Saturday 2 August, saw Cup holders Kingussie progress after a dominant performance against Fort William at Bught Park in Inverness. Kingussie, who reached the semis with a 5–0 win over Beauly, showed their strength once again in their campaign to retain the title for a fourth consecutive year.
Attention now turns to the second semi-final this coming weekend as Newtonmore face Oban Camanachd today (Saturday 9 August) at An Aird, Fort William.
Newtonmore overcame a shock early setback in their quarter-final away to Inveraray, eventually running out 4-1 winners, while their semi-final opponents Oban Camanachd cruised into the last four with a 5-0 win over Lovat.
Live coverage of the Newtonmore v Oban Camanachd semi-final will start on BBC ALBA at 4pm with BBC Spòrs presenter Allan Macleod, and commentator, Derek Mackay.
BBC ALBA will also broadcast the showpiece event in the shinty calendar, the Camanachd Cup final, live from Inverness, on Saturday 20 September.
Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “Shinty is an integral part of Scotland’s sporting and cultural identity, and the Camanachd Cup is the trophy most top teams covet more than any other.
“These fixtures promise to showcase the sport at its best and provide a fantastic opportunity to bring the excitement and passion of the game to a wider audience across the country – and beyond.”
Watch Saturday’s first semi-final live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer:
Edinburgh Leisure Launches Citywide Coaching Campaign to Kickstart the New School Term
With just 59% of school-aged children meeting the recommended daily levels of physical activity, the start of the new school term is the perfect time to get kids moving. Edinburgh Leisure is encouraging families to help their children discover their next big passion through sport by signing up for one of its fun and engaging coaching courses.
With a spotlight on three exciting sports – Diving, Climbing, and Tennis – the campaign encourages children aged P1 and up to try something new, build skills, and have fun in a supportive, expert-led environment.
Whether they’re scaling new heights, making a splash, or smashing their first serve, there’s something for everyone.
Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We want to encourage parents to give their children a new exciting hobby to look forward to this term and sport could be their next big thing. As the leading provider of sports and leisure facilities, we have a wide range of coaching opportunities available across our venues for all abilities.
“Sports coaching offers so much more than just learning the game or skill – it helps children build confidence, develop strong listening and communication skills, and stay active in line with recommended exercise levels. It’s about nurturing life skills through movement, teamwork, and fun – giving every child the chance to grow both on and off the court, pitch, or pool.”
It is recommended that children and young people aged 5-18 years should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity daily, with some of this activity being bone and muscle strengthening.
Preschoolers, aged 3-5 years, should be active throughout the day, with at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity.
In Scotland, it is estimated that approximately 69-71% of children aged 5-15 meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, including school-based activities. When excluding school-based activities, this figure drops to about 59%. There’s a notable age-related decline, with younger children (5-7 years old) being more active (around 80%) than older teens (13-15 years old) (around 60%).
Why Join?
Fun and friendly coaching for all abilities
Expert instructors to guide every step
A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
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!
Successful bid would see the biggest global athletics event return to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Government also supports bid for the 2029 World Para Athletics Championships to be staged in the UK
Championships would boost economy and strengthen UK standing as world-class sporting hosts
The UK Government has today confirmed its support for bids to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships and the 2029 World Para Athletics Championships; setting out their ambition to see the sport’s pinnacle events return to the UK for the first time since the summer of 2017.
A bid would aim to boost the UK economy, further strengthen the country’s outstanding reputation for hosting the biggest and best events, and encourage more people to get involved in track and field.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Bringing the World Athletics Championships to the UK would be moment of great national pride, building on our global reputation for hosting memorable sporting events that showcase the very best talent.
“Hosting these championships would not only unlock opportunities for UK athletes but it would inspire the next generation to get involved and pursue their ambitions.
“The event would provide a boost for UK businesses and support jobs as well as bring our communities together. I’m delighted to support the bid.”
The London Stadium, etched into the public’s memory for hosting the iconic 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as the hugely successful 2017 World Championships, is the proposed venue for the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
Meanwhile, the Government is committed to taking the World Paras beyond the capital, with a host city to be confirmed in due course.
Subject to funding from partners being confirmed, the Government has agreed to provide significant funding for both bids, reflecting the UK’s ambition to once again bring the world’s greatest athletes to UK shores.
This major commitment comes with London today set to host a sold-out Diamond League event, the world’s biggest one-day athletics meet.
The UK Government will work hand-in-hand with the bidder Athletic Ventures, UK Sport, and host cities – including the Greater London Authority for the World Athletics Championship – to unlock a wide range of social, economic and sporting benefits, from boosting tourism and local economies to fostering healthier, more active communities through elite sport.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said: “Major sporting events deliver unforgettable moments and have the power to bring our country together like little else.
“That’s why we’re excited to be backing a bid to bring the World Athletics and World Para Athletics Championships back to the UK in 2029. As part of our Plan for Change, we want to build on our world class reputation as hosts, delivering not just economic benefits for the country but engaging communities, inspiring the next generation and showcasing the best of Britain to the world.”
Simon Morton, Director of Events at UK Sport, said: “Live sport matters. It brings people together in ways few other things can, creating happiness, pride and lasting memories.
“Hosting the 2029 World Athletics Championships and World Para Athletics Championships gives us the chance to once again unite the nation around these genuinely global events.
“We welcome the Government’s commitment to extend our pipeline of hosted events, as we move forward with this bold and collaborative bid.”
Jack Buckner, CEO of UK Athletics, said: “We’d like to thank the Government for supporting these bids. Staging these events in the UK will not only inspire today’s elite athletes, but those of tomorrow, and will engage millions in our sport.
“After superb medal hauls over the last few years on the World, Olympic and Paralympic stage, athletics in the UK is on an upward trajectory, with new partners, record participation and sold-out stadia.
“This support will drive the sport on to new heights.”
Sanjay Bhandari, Chair at Athletic Ventures, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Government has recognised the enormous value that the World Athletics Championships and World Para Athletics Championships can deliver for Britain — from jobs and investment to inspiring young people to get active.
“Central government support is a catalytic first step enabling us to build further dialogue with potential host cities and build compelling bids for both championships.
“We will seek to create spectacular events that leave a lasting legacy for our communities. We’re excited to work with partners across sport, government and our potential host cities to make that vision a reality.”
Josh Kerr, 1500m world champion and double Olympic medallist, said: “London 2017 was my first senior World Championships, and it lit a fire in me. Being part of a home team in that kind of atmosphere was incredible — it made me hungrier than ever to become a world champion and chase Olympic medals.
“Having the government support to bid for 2029 and potentially bring that experience back to London would be massive. It would inspire so many young athletes and give the sport the platform it deserves. I’m proud to support the bid and hope we get the chance to show the world what we can do on home soil.”
If successful, the Championships would mark another milestone in the UK’s exceptional record of hosting world-class events and its enduring commitment to investing in sport as a force for good.
The pipeline of major events already secured includes this Summer’s Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, the European Athletics Championships 2026, the ICC T20 Cricket women’s and men’s World Cups (in 2026 and 2030 respectively), the Invictus Games 2027 in Birmingham, the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Departs 2027, and EURO 2028.
Katarina Johnson Thompson, two-time heptathlon world champion, said: “I’m so pleased to see the Government backing this bid — hosting a home World Championships would be incredible for our sport and for the country.
“I still remember the buzz of competing in front of a home crowd in London in 2012 and 2017 — nothing compares to that feeling. It gave me a huge lift, and I’d love the next generation of athletes to experience that same atmosphere on the world stage.
“Bringing the Championships back to London would inspire so many people and show what British athletics is all about.”
Zak Skinner, two-time European T13 Gold medallist, said: “It’s great that the Government is backing the bid to bring the World Para Athletics Championships back to the UK. Competing at London 2017 was one of the most unforgettable moments of my life.
“That home crowd, that energy — it was electric, and it showed just how powerful para athletics can be when it’s centre stage.
“I’ve grown so much as an athlete since then, but that experience gave me belief and drive at a crucial time. Hosting the World Para Athletics Championships here again would be a huge statement — not just for our athletes, but for the next generation watching in the stands or at home. I’d love to see it come back to the UK.”
Pioneering wheelchair basketball star Robyn Love has paid tribute to the place where her sporting career began, after being awarded an honorary doctorate by Edinburgh Napier University (ENU).
Since graduating from ENU with a degree in Biomedical Science in 2013, the 34-year-old from Ayr has represented Great Britain at three Paralympic Games – in Rio, Tokyo and Paris – captained Team Scotland at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, and won silver and bronze medals at European and World Championships.
Born with arthrogryposis, a condition affecting muscle development, Robyn took up basketball during her time at ENU, where she was Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association vice president, captain of the women’s basketball team, and president of the LGBTQ+ society.
She has continued to champion equality and accessibility in her roles as a director at Basketball Scotland, an LGBTQ+ ambassador with the British Elite Athlete Association.
Robyn’s honorary doctorate is awarded as she prepares to represent Scotland on home soil in the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
She was formally presented with the degree during a graduation ceremony at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on Friday [11 July], celebrating alongside her fiancé and teammate Laurie Williams.
Responding to the award of her honorary doctorate, Robyn said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the very institution where my journey truly began.
“It was here that I first picked up a basketball and discovered wheelchair sport – a moment that sparked a decade-long career representing Great Britain on the international stage.
“Alongside my sporting journey, I’ve been proud to advocate for the LGBT community, striving to create spaces where everyone can be seen, valued and empowered to thrive – much like my experience at Edinburgh Napier.
“This honorary doctorate is not just a celebration of achievement, but a reminder of the power of education, opportunity, and inclusion to transform lives.”
Presenting the degree, Professor Susan Brown, from ENU’s School of Applied Sciences said: “Robyn’s story reflects ambition, professionalism, inclusivity and innovation – each a cornerstone of our university’s values.
“She is a powerful role model for our graduates, reminding us that adversity can be a catalyst for greatness, and that leadership comes in many forms.
“Robyn has broken boundaries and redefined what is possible – not just for herself, but for the communities she represents. Her ambition drives her to excel, her professionalism is evident in her leadership and advocacy, inclusivity is at the heart of all she does, and her innovative spirit turns challenges into opportunities.”
Tennis courts in Juniper Green have opened following state-of-the-art renovations worth £100k, thanks to a major fundraising drive by the local tennis club.
Almost £50k was raised by Juniper Green Tennis Club, matched by grant funding from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), to carry out extensive work on the two courts. This includes resurfacing, repainting, new fencing, nets and a smart entrance gate.
The courts are leased from the City of Edinburgh Council and managed for year-round public use by Juniper Green Tennis Club. All courts will be available to book via the LTA website. New gate access technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability.
Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain. This nationwide programme of investment is seeing thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country, providing vital opportunities for children and adults to get active.
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “I’m delighted to see these tennis courts upgraded at Juniper Green, and offering fantastic facilities for all those who use them.
“Juniper Green Tennis Club pulled out all the stops to fundraise for these renovations and it’s thanks to them, along with funding from the Lawn Tennis Association, that there will be even more opportunities for residents to get involved in the sport.”
Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to see the courts at Juniper Green transformed and in better shape than ever.
“Park tennis courts are vital for providing people with opportunities to pick up a racket, and we want as many people as possible, of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, to enjoy playing tennis and being active. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.
Juniper Green Tennis Club Chair Paul Murphy said: “A group of local organisations, businesses and individuals successfully secured our participation in this fantastic nationwide scheme to transform local tennis facilities by making generous cash donations, providing five-year interest free loans and committing to five-year fixed term memberships.
“The support of the local community allied to the critical contribution from the LTA Park Tennis Project has helped to future proof the tennis courts in Juniper Green which have been such an important part of village life, on the current site, since their opening in 1907.”
Edinburgh Leisure is on the hunt for the next generation of divers
For those who have been inspired by divers such as Jack Laugher, Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix (daughter of Fred!) and Tom Daley, Edinburgh Leisure is offering the opportunity for children to come and try diving with our experienced coaches at the Royal Commonwealth Pool to see if they have a talent for the sport.
Children should be between 5 and 16 years old, able to swim 10 metres unaided, confident in deep water and submerge in water without
r without googles. No experience in necessary as they will be learning basic skills but those interested in gymnastics, trampolining, acrobatics or similar sports might enjoy this opportunity to try a new sport.
Priced at just £3, the diving taster sessions at the Royal Commonwealth Pool are offered on:
Monday 4 – Friday 8 August at 17.10 – 17.40
To secure a place, interested people should visit the Edinburgh Leisure website – https://shorturl.at/uLDKw
Edinburgh Leisure offers a world class diving programme at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, complete with a dedicated Dry Dive Area with trampolines and harnesses, which enables more experienced divers to practice the twists and turns before trying them out on the boards.
Their diving programme follows the National Diving Award Scheme right through to competitive level.
Athletes training at the Royal Commonwealth Pool include local Edinburgh boy, James Heatly (GB); Yona Knight-Wisdom (Jamaica) and Grace Reid, who grew up in the capital, are amongst other Olympians who have previously trained at the Commie.
MEMBERS OLD AND NEW CAME TOGETHER TO SHARE MEMORIES OF THE CLUB’S HISTORY, INSPIRED BY MAROON AND WHITE STRIPES
As The Watsonian Football Club celebrates its 150th year, former players and current members came together at the Pavilion at Myreside, adorning variations of the club’s famous maroon and white kit.
With every kit telling a story and sparking memories both on and off the pitch, the opportunity was created for newer members to hear about the ‘Sonians’ that came before them, and for some of the club’s greats to be remembered for their contributions.
From recent triumphs like the Sarah Beaney Cup victories to the rich history of rugby legends who proudly wore the Watsonians crest, the significance of The Watsonian Football Club was brought to life through a remarkable collection of classic jerseys, many of which were rediscovered after years tucked away in attics and drawers. These kits serve as powerful reminders of the club’s lasting impact on generations of players and supporters over the past 150 years.
Marking its 150th year, The Watsonian Football Club is committed to reigniting and energising the community that has shaped its storied journey. A series of ongoing celebratory events and initiatives will complement the club’s on-field achievements, including four successful senior teams and a thriving youth section.
Through sharing their memories made in maroon and white, it quickly became clear that no matter where life has taken people, being part of The Watsonian Football Club is something that leaves a lasting impact.
With a framed shirt by his side, former Club Captain, John Macdonald, reflected on his time playing for Watsonians, saying:“This is all very nostalgic.
“I remember that at my peak, we were playing Melrose with a crowd of 7,500 watching. My sons still think I am winding them up when I bring it up, but they’ve seen some of the old footage. It was a different day, a different game, and obviously things move on, but it was a really golden period to be a part of the club.”
The game of rugby and the landscape of the sport in Scotland continue to be ever-changing, but The Watsonian Football Club has been able to enjoy its long history by adapting and growing with the game.
Notable ways that the club has done so in recent times include the introduction of Watsonian Women’s in the late 90s and success being enjoyed at the semi-professional level with the introduction of the now disbanded Super Series.
Kath Vass, a stalwart of Watsonians Women’s for 17 years, repping a stitched-together 2005 Watsonian Women’s kit, shared memories of success:“When we won the top league in Scottish women’s rugby, it was something truly special.
“Being able to bring the trophy here, to Myreside, is something that I will never forget. When I joined what was known as Watsonian Ladies in the year 2000, it was perfect.
“Having previously played elsewhere but living a stone’s throw away from Myreside, I was welcomed with open arms and immediately wowed by the community and professionalism of the club.”
Departing Club Captain and Super Series winner, Neil Irvine-Hess, reminisced on recent memories, adding: “Having played for Watsonians as a teen, I returned to the club in 2022 after a stint in the Borders.
“It was an honour to get asked to captain the Super Series team two years ago, and it’s something that I have taken seriously ever since. It is special and helps you appreciate the long history of the club.
“When I finish playing, I will look back with pride on my name being amongst so many great Watsonians players. The community at Watsonians is brilliant, from being dragged to the ground by the minis at a family day to winning the Super Series Championship, it is special to be part of The Watsonian Football Club’s history.”
With multiple Watsonians teams across different generations enjoying the highs of success and battling through tougher seasons, it has been important for the club to welcome players from across Edinburgh and further afield to sustain competitiveness and create a growing community.
By rediscovering the magic and the memories possessed by old stripes of maroon and white, The Watsonian Football Club continues to inspire its community to come together during its milestone 150th year.
With a full calendar of events planned in the lead-up to the 150th Gala Dinner in November, The Watsonian Football Club warmly invites past and present members to be part of this historic 2025 celebrations.
For more information on Watsonian Rugby Club, please visit:
Hibernian FC is delighted to announce that the East Stand will be renamed as the new Pat Stanton Stand, honouring the legend’s iconic career.
Ahead of the Club’s 150th anniversary, Stanton’s impact on Hibernian FC and Scottish football has been recognised with his name sitting proudly at the top of the old East Stand.
Growing up a Hibs fan and watching from the terraces, Stanton joined his beloved club in 1963 before making his debut shortly after at the tender age of 19 years and 22 days. From that moment on he never looked back.
A calm, composed midfielder, he developed from a talented youngster into one of the best players in the Scottish game going on to win the SFWA Footballer of the Year award in 1969/70.
Establishing himself as a leader on the pitch, Stanton became Hibs captain and helped lead his side to win the Scottish League Cup in December 1972, scoring the opener as Hibs beat Celtic 2-1 at Hampden Park. He also helped lift two Drybrough Cups.
Pat Stanton was known for his ability to read the game, his tackling, and range of passing, and those three qualities were influential as Hibs beat local rivals Hearts 0-7 at Tynecastle in 1973, and recorded memorable victories over Napoli and Sporting Lisbon in Europe.
It was during his time at Hibs where he made his Scotland debut in 1966. He earned 16 caps in total and captained his nation on three occasions.
In 1976, he ended his 13-year spell at his hometown club, and in total made 617 appearances, scoring 78 goals.
After two years at Celtic, over 40,000 people turned out for his testimonial match, celebrating his career. He is regarded as one of Hibernian’s greatest ever players and is widely considered to be one of the finest Scottish players in the history of the game.
After hanging up his boots, Stanton was Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Aberdeen before going on to manage Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline, and then his beloved Hibs. He has been involved with the Club in different capacities ever since.
Hibernian FC Chairman Ian Gordon commented: “It’s with great pride and pleasure that we are honouring Pat Stanton’s amazing contribution to Hibernian FC and Scottish football during our anniversary season.
“The Pat Stanton Stand will serve as a lasting tribute to his achievements and legacy, inspiring future players and supporters for many years to come.
“On behalf of everyone associated with Hibs – the fans, the board, the staff, the players, the entire Hibernian Family – I would like to thank Pat for everything he’s done for the Club.”
