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.”
Ann Budge has advised the Board that she will be stepping down from her role as Chair of the club in December of this year, following the 2025 AGM. The search for a new Chair is now underway.
Working with the Foundation of Hearts, and with the backing and commitment of the fans, Ann played a vital role in rescuing the club, enabling it to exit from administration in 2014. Since then, she has spent more than a decade driving Hearts forward and has been a pivotal figure in the club’s resurgence.
Under her leadership, and with the financial backing of fans, sponsors and benefactors – once again proud to be associated with Hearts – the club has reestablished itself both on and off the pitch.
We have seen the delivery of a number of major infrastructure projects, including the Museum, the Memorial Garden, a new state-of-the-art pitch, and, of course, the magnificent new Main Stand incorporating the Tynecastle Park Hotel.
Investment in infrastructure has not stopped at Tynecastle, with substantial investment in facilities for our players, at all levels, up at Oriam.
Hearts has also reaffirmed its position as a community champion during Ann’s time in charge. With the saving of our charity, Big Hearts, coupled with the creation of our Community and Heritage Department, Hearts sits firmly at the very heart of the community.
Fans and the local community alike have access to community football for all ages, amazing educational opportunities through our Innovation Centre and a whole range of family support services through Big Hearts.
On the football front, Ann has also overseen the redevelopment of our youth academy, including the creation of our own performance school. She has also been totally committed to helping establish the Women’s game here in Scotland, ensuring comparable facilities for both men and women at Oriam.
During her tenure, our fans have had numerous visits to Hampden to support not just our men’s first team but also our women’s team. They have seen multiple third-place finishes in the league and have enjoyed many memorable European adventures, including the men’s first team securing European football for a historic three years in a row.
Reflecting on her decision to step down, Ann said; “This is something I have thought long and hard about. Having discussed this with the Board, I feel now is the right time to confirm that I intend to step down later this year.
“When I first got involved with the Foundation of Hearts in 2013, I could not have envisaged the journey it would take me on. Initially, the aim was to stabilize the Club before even thinking of growth. Now, 12-years later, as I look at where the club stands, I can allow myself to feel a sense of pride at what we have achieved.
“With Tony Bloom’s investment now complete, and the supporters ensconced as custodians of the club, I believe I have done what I set out to achieve.
“The appropriate time for reminiscing and saying goodbye will come after the AGM in December but until then, my full focus will remain on what it has always been, and that is doing my very best for Hearts and our fans.”
Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKinlay said; “It cannot be overstated just how much Ann has done for Heart of Midlothian and on behalf of everyone at the club, I extend both my thanks and my gratitude.
“As we get closer to December’s AGM we will update our supporters on our succession plans, but for now we will continue to enjoy and benefit from working with Ann until the end of her tenure as the club’s Chair.”
Foundation of Hearts Chairman Gerry Mallon said; “Ann will leave a remarkable legacy when she departs the club and we are extremely fortunate to have had 12 years of her knowledge and experience at the helm of Hearts.
“In particular, her participation during the birth of the Foundation of Hearts can never be downplayed, neither can the instrumental role she played in saving the club from the abyss and taking it back up to the top end of Scottish football.
“For that, I will be forever grateful to Ann, as I’m sure Hearts fans everywhere will be too.”
Last week in Mullingar FRC,Ireland, 96 rugby players set a world record the longest games of rugby. The marathon event ( which is currently being verified by Guinness World Records) raised funds for Wooden Spoon , LooseHeadz and The Lions Trust charities.
Scottish players included Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.
Two teams have officially made rugby history at Mullingar RFC, Ireland where they completed the Longest Games of Rugby ever played, with the women’s team clocking an astonishing 26 hours and 33 minutes, and the men’s team pushing through to an incredible 34 hours and 48 minutes of continuous play. (The footage from the matches is currently being verified by Guinness World Records.)
What began as an ambitious challenge turned into an unforgettable display of resilience, teamwork, and sheer determination as players faced extreme conditions over the two-day event.
With relentless heat beating down on Wednesday, several participants battled heatstroke, pushing their bodies to the limit. The local fire brigade came to the rescue, filling water baths on site to help players cool down and stay safe in the searing temperatures.
As night fell, a new challenge emerged: cold mist and damp air that settled in overnight. But the teams dug deep, supporting each other every step of the way.
As the sun rose on Thursday morning, exhaustion gave way to adrenaline, and with the finish line in sight, both teams summoned their final reserves of strength to break not one, but two world records.
Their historic achievement was celebrated in front of a roaring crowd at the Aviva Stadium last Friday evening as the British & Irish Lions took on Argentina. The players were honoured at halftime with a pitch walk and greeted with thunderous applause as official world record holders.
So far, the event has raised an incredible £115,000 in support of three amazing charities: Wooden Spoon, LooseHeadz, and The Lions Trust, which will help save lives and support children through the power of rugby.
“This was about more than breaking records,” said Matt Bishop, Wooden Spoon player. “It was about community, perseverance, and doing something extraordinary to support causes we care deeply about.
“Every blister, bruise, and sleepless hour was worth it!”
Scotland was proudly representedon the field by Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, one of the most respected figures in Scottish women’s rugby history.
A key member of the original national side and number 12 on the roll of honour, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper earned 39 caps for Scotland, three as captain, and played in three World Cups. She was a standout in the famous 27-7 victory over France at the 1998 World Cup, where she was awarded Player of the Match, and also featured in Scotland’s Grand Slam win against England – a defining moment for Scottish rugby.
Beyond her illustrious playing career, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper has continued to shape the sport in Scotland as a specialist front-row coach, manager of the Scotland Women’s team, and as Treasurer of the Scottish Women’s Rugby Union (2005–2006). She was also instrumental in organising the 1994 Women’s Rugby World Cup – an event she and her team pulled together in just 90 days.
Sarah Webb, CEO , Wooden Spoon said: “We are incredibly grateful to every single player who took part in this extraordinary effort. Not only did they break world records – they’ve helped change lives.
“The funds raised will make a huge difference to the children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage that we support at Wooden Spoon. This was a phenomenal act of grit, determination and community.”
A Big thank you to our sponsors who helped make The Longest Game happen : LMAX Exchange, ICS Mortgages, Canterbury, OPRO , NOCCO, d3 tape.
Scottish players involved in the The Longest Game : Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.
Boscombe Pier has been named the best place in the UK for paddleboarding with a score of 9.73.Located in Bournemouth, the beach has an excellent water classification making it an ideal spot for paddleboarders.
With almost 1,700 hours of sunshine each year and an average wind speed of 8.63 m/s per 10m, the conditions are well-suited for getting out on the water.
Lessons and equipment are available at local rentals such as Sorted Surf School and there are several cafes and restaurants along the pier which are perfect for refuelling after a paddleboarding session.
Best paddleboarding spots in the UK:
Rank
Location
Local Authority
Country
Water classification
Average annual sunshine hours
Average annual rainfall (mm)
Mean wind speed (m/s) per 10m
Paddleboarding lessons
Paddleboarding score /10
1
Boscombe Pier
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
England
Excellent
1,694
919
8.36
Yes
9.73
2
River Dart
Devon
England
Good
1,729
901
8.35
Yes
8.82
3
Whitby
North Yorkshire
England
Excellent
1,567
906
9.41
Yes
8.73
4
Wardie Bay
City of Edinburgh
Scotland
Excellent
1,428
933
8.56
Yes
8.37
5
Cotswold Water Park
Cotswolds
England
Excellent
1,514
790
9.98
Yes
8.00
5
Marazion Beach
Cornwall
England
Good
1,753
1,003
8.50
Yes
8.00
7
Cullen Beach
Moray
Scotland
Excellent
1,455
1,005
9.73
Yes
7.55
8
Portobello Beach
City of Edinburgh
Scotland
Sufficient
River Dart follows in second place with a score of 8.82. With over 1,700 hours of sunshine each year, the area benefits from plenty of bright days which are perfect for heading out on the water.
The location also has relatively low average annual rainfall and a mean wind speed of 8.35 m/s per 10m, making for stable paddleboarding conditions. Paddleboarding gear can be hired nearby from providers such as Totnes Kayaks and Paddle Devon.
Whitby completes the top three with a score of 8.73. Known for its excellent water quality, it offers clean and safe water conditions for paddleboarders to enjoy. With mean wind speeds of 9.41 m/s per 10m, it is a great spot for those looking for more challenging paddleboarding conditions.
Visitors can hire equipment and lessons from local experts, including providers like the Whitby Surf School.
Edinburgh’s WARDIE BAY comes in a fine fourth and Portobello also features in the UK top ten, featuring eight on the list.
Sam Chadwick, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors comments: “As the weather gets warmer, many are looking to go outside and enjoy the UK’s water.
“Paddleboarding is a fantastic way to experience the outdoors and there are several places across the UK to enjoy this activity, but safety is the most important thing.
“Since paddleboarding can involve being in deeper water, always wear a buoyancy aid no matter your swimming ability. Weather conditions can change quickly, and waters can rapidly become rough, so check the forecast before going out on the water. While on the paddleboard, keep the paddleboard leash securely attached to your ankle to ensure your board stays close by if you fall in.
“Even on warm days, deep water can be cold so always opt for a wetsuit to keep your body warm in case you fall into the water. It’s also important to stay within designated paddleboarding zones and be mindful of other people enjoying the water nearby.
“Always paddleboard with a buddy, let someone know your plans and expected return time and remember to only paddleboard within your capabilities.”
£900 million investment in major sporting events and grassroots sport
Major sporting events and grassroots sport across the UK to benefit from over £900 million in funding, as part of government’s Plan for Change
More than £500 million to support delivery of world class major sporting events hosted in the UK, including UEFA EURO 2028, Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Départs 2027
At least £400 million to be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities in communities across the country
Villages, towns and cities across the UK are set to benefit from a transformational investment of more than £900 million in sport, which will support a pipeline of major international events and deliver new grassroots facilities that can drive economic growth and inspire people of all ages to get active.
The funding commitment, which was outlined in the Spending Review last week, has now been set out by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.
It will see more than £500 million committed to supporting the delivery of a host of world class sporting events being held in the UK over the coming years, including:
The men’s and women’s Tour de France Grand Départs in 2027
Men’s UEFA EURO 2028 – alongside Ireland
The European Athletics Championships 2026 in Birmingham
These events are expected to deliver significant economic benefits, with EURO 2028 alone projected to generate up to £2.4 billion in socio-economic value across the UK.
Work is also continuing with the Home Nation football associations (FA)s and devolved administrations to develop the bid for the UK to host the Women’s FIFA World Cup in 2035.
In tandem at least £400 million will be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities that promote health, wellbeing and community cohesion. Work to remove the barriers to physical activity for under-represented groups, such as women and girls, people with disabilities, and ethnic minority communities will continue.
Already, government funding has helped local clubs from Ayrshire to Anglesey, Strangford to Somerset, build new pitches and changing rooms, install floodlights, solar panels and goalposts; supporting a range of sports including football and rugby.
Together, this strategic investment in sport will help to deliver on the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth by creating jobs, driving regional prosperity and encouraging visitors to the UK.
It is also designed to reduce barriers to opportunity, bring communities together through shared national moments and showcase the best of the UK to the world.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said: “Sport tells our national story in a way few other things can – uniting communities, inspiring millions, and showcasing our nation on the global stage.
“This major backing for world-class events will drive economic growth across the country, delivering on our Plan for Change. Coupled with strong investment into grassroots sport, we’re creating a complete pathway to allow the next generation of sporting heroes to train and take part in sport in communities across the UK.”
This investment is central to the government’s commitment to delivering major sporting events with pride and impact and stands alongside ongoing work with partners in the sport sector and across the UK.
The pipeline of major events already secured includes this Summer’s Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, the ICC T20 Cricket women’s and men’s World Cups (in 2026 and 2030 respectively), the Invictus Games 2027 in Birmingham, and many other elite continental and world championships.
Debbie Hewitt MBE, Chair of the UK and Ireland 2028 Board, said: “We welcome today’s announcement of significant investment in sport from the UK government, which marks a major boost to the successful delivery of UEFA EURO 2028.
“This commitment will not only help us stage a world-class tournament but also ensure that communities across the UK feel long-lasting benefits – from enhanced grassroots facilities to stronger local economies.
“UEFA EURO 2028 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and with this investment, we are better placed than ever to deliver an event with pride, purpose and impact.”
Nick Webborn, Chair of UK Sport, said: “We welcome the government’s ongoing commitment to hosting the Tour De France, Tour De France Femmes and Euro 2028. These events have huge potential to drive economic growth, bring people together and inspire the next generation in communities across the UK.
“We believe that live sport is a fundamental part of this country’s social fabric. We are really excited to be working with the government and support their commitment to secure the pipeline of big events beyond 2028 to ensure we can continue to reach, inspire and unite people in every corner of the country.”
Chair of Sport England, Chris Boardman said: “The government’s continued investment into grassroots sport facilities is welcome news; the nation’s pitches, pools and leisure centres play a pivotal role in keeping people moving.
“With every £1 invested in community sport and physical activity generating £4.20 in value for our economy, supporting grassroots facilities isn’t just good for public health — it’s a smart investment in the nation’s social and economic wellbeing.”
BBC ALBA has secured the exclusive rights to air the Scottish Junior Cup Final – the annual tournament labelled the ‘Holy Grail’ in junior football.
Broadcasting from Broadwood Stadium in Cumbernauld, BBC ALBA Spòrs presenter, Micheal Steele, alongside commentator, Alex O’Henley, will bring viewers all the live action as Johnstone Burgh take on Tranent this afternoon (Sunday 1 June).
As both sides battle it out for the coveted piece of silverware, it’s set to be a high-stakes clash in one of junior football’s most prestigious competitions.
Johnstone Burgh midfielder Aaron Mason, who scored the winning goal against Largs Thistle to secure the Renfrewshire-side’s place in the Junior Cup Final for first time in 25 years, said: “It’s a great feeling to be playing in a Scottish Junior Cup Final, and to be part of it with my teammates representing a great football club means a lot.We’ve worked hard all season for this and now we have the chance to go make it count!”
Burgh last made it to the final in 2000 when they faced Whitburn Juniors at Partick Thistle’s Firhill. The game finished 2-2 with the East of Scotland League side going on to win on penalties.
Tranent celebrated reaching the Junior Cup Final for the first time in 90 years after a 3-2 aggregate win over Drumchapel United earlier this month. The East Lothian club have played in the final twice before, losing to Yoker Athletic in 1933 and then lifting the trophy two years later, with a 6-1 victory over Petershill at Ibrox.
Playing in the tournament for the first time since leaving the Junior leagues, Tranent defender, Euan Bauld, said: “It’s a great feeling to be in the final! We’ve had a month to look forward to it so all the boys are buzzing.
“It’s a massive day for the club as it’s 90 years since Tranent last won the Scottish Junior Cup. Hopefully we can do the town proud and bring home the trophy.”
The Junior Cup Final kicks off at 4.05pm, with BBC ALBA coverage from 4pm.
Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “The Scottish Junior Cup Final is a standout event in BBC ALBA’s spring sporting schedule that showcases the passion and commitment of the players – and their communities – at every level of the game.
“With two passionate clubs, with everything to play for, this year’s final promises all the drama and excitement that makes Junior football so unique and we’re proud to be able to showcase this iconic fixture to a wider audience across our channels.”
Watch the Scottish Junior Cup Final live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer:
BBC ALBA is set to air the latest League A UEFA Women’s Nations League fixture as Scotland Women’s National Team (SWNT) continue their campaign against Austria at Hampden tonight (Friday 30 May).
Broadcasting live on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer from 7.25pm ahead of kick off at 7.35pm, fans can join BBC Spòrs reporter and UEFA Scotland correspondent Alex O’Henley to watch the action unfold in this latest meeting between the two international sides. English commentary from Stuart Mitchell and Grant Scott will also be accessible via the ‘Red Button’.
Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “BBC ALBA has been supporting SWNT’s Nations League campaign since the tournament kicked off earlier this year.
“We – along with so many others across the country – have followed the highs and lows of the international competition, and we’re excited to see how they perform in the penultimate league match against Austria this week.”
Following a 1-0 away defeat against the Austrian side in February, this highly anticipated rematch comes ahead of Scotland’s final second-leg battle against the Netherlands on 3 June at Tilburg.
Watch live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer:
