Vets are advising anyone planning to travel abroad this summer with their pets or assistance dogs to book an appointment with their vet practice well in advance to allow plenty of time to complete all the required health checks and paperwork.
With school summer holidays here, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is calling on owners to first carefully consider if it would be in their pets’ best interests to travel overseas with them.
For anyone choosing to holiday abroad with their pet, BVA has issued a handy checklist to remind owners about the checks their animal will need before travel. This includes trips from Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the European Union, as post-Brexit rules mean owners now have to get the more complex and time-consuming Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from a vet trained to issue them no more than ten days before travel.
British Veterinary Association Senior Vice President Justine Shotton said:“The countdown to summer break has begun. While we should all consider whether a holiday abroad is appropriate for our pets’ welfare or their carbon pawprint, if you are making plans that include travelling with your pet or assistance dog, now is the time to contact your local vet for information on pet travel requirements.
“Book an appointment as soon as possible to make sure your pet has all the necessary paperwork and is fully protected against diseases they may encounter in their travels.
“We’d like to remind owners that the post-Brexit requirements for travel to the EU are a significant change from the previous and much simpler ‘pet passport’ system, so they will take longer to complete and cost more. A pet travel consult at the vets can now take around an hour and even longer where there are multiple animals.
“Vet practices are already under a huge workload pressure. To help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for yourself, your pet and your vet, we would urge you to contact your vet as early as you can ahead of travel to make sure there’s a vet available for this certification work and enough time to complete the required health checks and paperwork.”
Prior to Brexit, as many as 250,000 cats and dogs from the UK were taken to the EU on holiday every year.
BVA has prepared a seven-point checklist for to help pet owners:
Timings: Contact your vet well in advance to ensure that you can get an appointment at least three weeks before your planned travel. Dogs, cats and ferrets need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip from Great Britain to an EU country or Northern Ireland. Unlike pet passports, AHCs are 9-12 pages long, which means a much more complex, time consuming and costly paperwork process. Some vaccinations, like rabies, are time-sensitive, so even a one-day delay could result in your papers being rejected at the border. As Northern Ireland remains part of the EU pet travel scheme, travellers from the country can use an EU pet passport as an alternative to an AHC. Contact your vet to update the pet passport.
Destination: Be clear about the countries you intend to travel to so that your vet can identify specific health risks your pet may be exposed to, such as ticks, sandflies, heartworm or tapeworm.
Rabies: Check that your pet’s rabies vaccination is up to date.
Microchip: Ensure your pet’s microchip is working and contact details are up to date.
Heat: Talk to your vet if going somewhere hot to discuss prevention of heatstroke and how to recognise symptoms in your dog.
Emergencies: Identify a local vet in the area where you will be holidaying in case of an emergency and to administer compulsory tapeworm treatment to dogs one to five days before arrival back into the UK.
Return: If your pet becomes ill after returning to the UK, it is very important to tell your vet that you have been abroad with your pet, even if it was some time ago.
It’s a UK road trip with a difference – music fans have been invited to make the ultimate rock and pop pilgrimage by visiting the locations where some of our biggest stars passed away.
Car rental experts from StressFreeCarRental.com have revealed the postcodes and locations where some of the biggest names in music, including Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury and George Michael, sadly died.
They have suggested a 1200-mile round Britain itinerary to visit the sites which can be reached by inputting the provided postcodes into any sat nav device.
But they are urging fans to undertake the road trip purely to pay their respects to the late artists and to remain mindful that many of the sites remain private property.
The 1200-mile road trip takes in several locations which attract thousands of visitors each year – such as the ditch where Marc Bolan crashed his Mini in 1977.
Starting in London the unique tour takes in the spots where icons Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury, Keith Moon and Jimi Hendrix passed away.
After leaving the capital music fans are encouraged to journey south to the crash site in Surrey where Glam Rock legend Marc Bolan died before heading on to Hartfield, East Sussex to visit the house where Rolling Stones founder Brian Jones was found dead in a swimming pool in 1969.
They then travel west to Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, where sixties icon Dusty Springfield sadly passed away before heading to nearby Goring-on-Thames where 80s pop legend George Michael died on Christmas Day 2016.
From Goring it’s a short trip to Salisbury where Thin Lizzy star Phil Lynott sadly died. Fans are then told to head to a lay-by close to the Severn Bridge near Bristol where Manic Street Preacher guitarist Richey Edwards is believed to have disappeared. He was later declared legally dead.
From there the road trip turns north stopping at Tanworth-in-Arden, Warwickshire where legendary singer-songwriter Nick Drake passed away, before heading on to a terraced house in Macclesfield where Joy Division singer Ian Curtis hung himself in 1980.
The trip then veers north to Scotland to Auchterhouse, near Dundee, the location of the suicide of Billy Mackenzie, lead singer of 80s band The Associates. He was found in a garden shed after an overdose.
The trip then heads back down south stopping at Arkesden, Essex at the location of the death of legendary Small Faces frontman Steve Marriott who sadly perished in a house fire in 1991.
A spokesman for StressFreeCarRental.com, who came up with the tour, said it was a chance for music fans to pay their respects to some of the biggest icons of all time.
He said: “Britain has produced some of the greatest stars in the history of popular music and many of them will never be forgotten. They are the legends who changed the lives of millions and many of us still listen to their music every day.
“So we thought it would be a good idea to gather together the greatest names who sadly passed away on UK soil and offer music fans an itinerary to visit the places where they passed on.
“Many of the locations remain private homes so we urge everyone who follows our guide to remain courteous and respectful at all times.
“By gathering all of the locations together into one suggested road trip we want to celebrate the legacies of some of the greatest talents Britain has ever produced.
“Fans can print off our handy checklist and tick off each location as they make the trip. By the time they’ve completed their journey they will have visited the locations where some of our greatest stars have passed away. Although in a way these legends will never die. They live on forever through their music.”
Explore the best of the UK and Ireland on tours departing in February and March
Enjoy 20% off guided tours across the UK and Ireland in February and March from award-winning, small-group tour specialist Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com).
Many miss the spectacular sights and sounds that the winter months have to offer. Plan a new adventure in February and March and discover the underappreciated wonders of the UK and Ireland, such as the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock on the Isle of Skye and the wild Causeway Route on the coast of Ireland.
Save 20% on tours departing in February and March across UK and Ireland departure points, when using the promo code SAVE20. Highlights include:
Three-day The Isle of Skye
Journey through unforgettable landscapes, charming villages and mighty castles on a roundtrip from Edinburgh. Visit historic Scottish landmarks such as Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument and Doune Castle before reaching the mountain pass of Glencoe, famed for its wild beauty.
Be amazed by the incredible Eilean Donan Castle before enjoying a day on the Isle of Skye. On this majestic isle, travel north to the Trotternish Ridge, home to the geological wonders of the Old Man or Stoor and Kilt Rock, or learn of the isle’s legends and clan culture at Dunvegan Castle, the 13th-century home of Clan MacLeod.
Take in views of Loch Duich and the Five Sisters of Kintail after travelling through Cullin Hills and attempt to spot Britain’s best monster, Nessie, at Loch Ness.
Join Rabbie’s Three-day The Isle of Skyefrom Edinburgh from £160 per person (was £199 per person), based on a 22 February 2023 departure.
Three-day Discover Northern Ireland
Towering mountains, unforgettable legends and a fascinating history are all waiting to be uncovered in Northern Ireland during this tour which departs from Dublin.
Take in a city tour of Belfast before exploring the majesty of the 19th-century estate of Mount Stewart and its world-famous gardens. Chart the winding and wild Causeway Coastal Route before stepping foot in the land of titans at Giant’s Causeway – a location where myths and legends and geological fact collide.
Ride on a ferry across the ‘Narrows’ of Strangford Loch and pass into a land of fiction at Castle Ward, also known as Winterfell from Game of Thrones. Follow the holy course of St Patrick to the Down Cathedral before concluding with an incredible drive into the Mourne Mountains.
Join Rabbie’s Three-day 3-day Discover Northern Ireland from Dublin from €272 per person (was €339 per person), based on a 23 February 2023 departure.
For more information about Rabbie’s and its tour offerings, visit www.rabbies.com.
Cruise operator Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours is bringing the joys of the world even closer to home for travellers from Scotland in 2023, with direct flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow offered across its range of European sailings (www.scenic.co.uk).
This remarkable deal – which guarantees departures on full-service airlines rather than budget carriers – meaning local holidaymakers are never far from the blooming tulips of the Netherlands. The best of Europe is only a short stop away with Scenic.
Book by 28 February to save up to £2,300 per couple and enjoy a taste of the line’s famous five-star luxury from the off, with FREE business class flights and private door to door transfers.
Highlights for 2023 include:
8 Day Windmills, Tulips and Belgian Delights
Irresistibly joyful, the Netherlands in bloom is a sight to savour. Sailing on a roundtrip from Amsterdam, the first port of call is the dynamic, international city of Rotterdam, the architectural capital of the Netherlands.
If preferrable, guests can decide to instead visit the picturesque town of Kinderdijk, famed for its iconic Dutch windmills. Walk the charming streets of Veere and visit the diamond capital of the world in the beautiful city of Antwerp.
Be transported back in time at the Netherlands Open Air Museum, home to historic houses, farms and windmills, or visit the Gardens of Appeltern, which is home to 200 colourful model gardens. In Amsterdam, conclude your unforgettable voyage with a memorable visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, which is home to over seven million flowering bulbs. This voyage calls in at Dordrecht, Veere, Antwerp, Arnhem and Hoorn. Prices start from £2,435 per person based on a 5 April 2023 departure date.
Scenic’s river cruises are truly all-inclusive, meaning guests can leave their wallet in a safe place and relax, knowing everything is taken care of. Flights, transfers, fine dining experiences, premium branded beverages and once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions are all included in the price.
For more information or to book, call 0808 301 8277, visit www.scenic.co.uk, or contact your local travel agent.
For a limited time only, award-winning, small-group tour specialist, Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com), are offering a 10% saving for tours in Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland.
Rabbie’s mini-coach tours travel on mini-coaches and stay in hand-picked accommodation. Thanks to Rabbie’s expert drivers and guides, guests travel beyond the guidebooks, off the beaten map and on the trodden track, with every new trial uncovering the hidden gems of Europe’s finest destinations.
Guests can get 10% off of tours departing in April in Italy, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland with the promo code EUAPRIL10 when booking before 14 February 2023.
Highlights include:
6-day The Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps Explorer
This 6-day tour takes a roundtrip from Milan, visiting the beautiful Italian lakes and the impressive peaks of the Swiss Alps. Gain the best views of the shimmering Italian lakes with boat rides on the stunning Lake Como and the azure-blue Lake Maggoire. Ride into the heart of the Swiss Alps and face the imposing and iconic Matterhorn and journey to the mountain’s ‘base camp’.
Meet aspiring mountaineers and revel in an unforgettable view of a seemingly insurmountable mountain. Journey back in time with a visit to Chillon Castle, a mighty fortress that sits on the expansive shores of Lake Geneva before walking the trails of 72 waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen.
Conclude the adventure in the town of Bellinzona, a fortress town that once stood guide to the North of Italy, now a beautiful UNESCO World-Heritage site.
Join Rabbie’s Six-Day The Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps Explorer from Milan from €2,119 per person based on a 24 April 2023 departure.
6-day The Charms or Portugal & North West Spain
Journey to the edge of ancient Europe to discover the hidden gems of Portugal and the treasures of Spain on this 6-day tour. Soak up Portuguese history in the cities of Óbidos and Coimbra.
In Óbidos, walk quaint streets and navigate the imposing walls of the Moorish Castle before, in Coimbra, exploring the city’s 13th-century university, which is one of the oldest in the world. Next, select between indulging in the cuisine and cathedrals of Porto, or journeying through the heart of the Duoro valley before enjoying an evening rich with performances of Fado, Portugal’s live, emotionally-resonant music.
Summit Mount Espinho, by staircase or by elevator, to visit the famous neoclassical church atop the mountain before visiting Guimarãe, the ‘birthplace of Portugal’ and a famous UNESCO World-Heritage sight. Notorious for shipwrecks, ‘the Coast of Death’ is waiting to be driven along and admired before travelling to the ‘End of the World’ at Cape Finisterre, which offers incredible views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Be transported back to Roman times in Lugo and Las Médula; complete with city wall defences. Marvel at the golden landmarks of Salamanca’s Old Town and visit the home of Spanish royalty, El Escorial.
Join Rabbie’s Six-day The Charms or Portugal & North West Spain from Lisbon from €1,959 per person based on a 17 April 2023 departure.
For more information about Rabbie’s and its tour offerings, visit www.rabbies.com.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering guests free door-to-door transfers or an all inclusive drinks package on a selection of 2023 itineraries from Rosyth, with sailings starting from £1,099 per person.
Running from 6th September to 31st October inclusive, guests booking a selected cruise of 16-nights of less can enjoy a free all inclusive drinks package, or, for selected cruises of 17-nights or more, guests will benefit from free door-to-door transfers for up to 200 UK mainland miles to the port.
A variety of hand-crafted itineraries are featured in the offer, with chances to experience some of the cultural traditions of Spain and Portugal, witness the midnight sun in rugged and remote Spitsbergen or discover Scandinavia’s Viking heritage.
Clare Ward, Director of Product and Customer Service at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are really proud of our hand-crafted itineraries, and our Journey Planners curate each cruise specially to make sure we are visiting at the best time of year and exploring beyond the typical tourist trails.
“Whether that’s venturing to see the midnight sun in rugged and remote Spitsbergen, cruising into the heart of the breath-taking Norwegian fjords or experiencing the world-famous Kiel Week Regatta in a scenic sailing to Germany, I am sure there will be a cruise to tempt you.
“We know these added value packages mean a great deal to our guests. With a drinks package, you can relax in one of our bars or lounges with your favourite tipple as you recharge after a day of exploring ashore.
“All of our cruises set sail from a regional UK port, meaning you can enjoy a stress-free check-in, avoiding long queues and delays and with the option of door-to-door transfers included on selected 2023 cruises, our guests can start to relax and enjoy their holiday from the moment they leave their front doors.”
Marquee Bar Gin
Highlights included within this offer are:
Balmoral’s 10-night L2315 ‘German Cities with Kiel Week Regatta’ cruise, departing from Rosyth on 22nd June 2023. Prices start from £1,599 per person. Enjoy a free all inclusive drinks package when booked by 31st October 2022 inclusive. Itinerary: Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland – Frederica, Denmark – Kiel, Germany (overnight port) – Warnemünde, Germany – Sassnitz, Germany – Kiel Canal Transit, Germany – Hamburg, Germany (overnight port) – Bremen, Germany – Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland For more details: Visit www.fredolsencruises.com/cruise/maritime-germany-l2315
Balmoral’s17-night L2316 ‘Experience the Traditions of Spain & Portugal’ cruise, departing from Rosyth on 2nd July 2023. Prices start from £2,599 per person. Enjoy free door-to-door transfers when booked by 31st October 2022 inclusive. Itinerary: Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland – Leixões (for Oporto), Portugal – Málaga, Spain – Cartagena, Spain – Valencia, Spain – Mahon (Menorca), Spain – Cádiz, Spain – Cruise mouth of River Tagus, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal – Vigo, Spain – Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland
Balmoral’s15-night L2317 ‘Rugged & Remote Spitsbergen with the Midnight Sun’ cruise, departing from Rosyth (Edinburgh) on 19th July 2023. Prices start from 2,799 per person. Enjoy a free all inclusive drinks package when booked by 31st October 2022 inclusive. Itinerary: Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland – Åndalsnes, Norway – Cruise Nærøysundet, Norway – Cruising Torghatten, Norway – Cruising Seven Sister Mountain Range, Norway – Cruising Trollfjord, Norway – Cruise Tjeldsundet Strait, Norway – Cruising by Djevelen Tanngard, Norway – Tromsø, Norway – Honningsvåg, Norway – Cruise North Cape, Norway – Cruise by Bear Island, Norway – Pyramiden, Norway – Cruise by Nordenskiöldbreen, Norway – Cruising Tempelfjorden, Norway – Longyearbyen, Norway – Sortland, Vesterålen, Norway – Cruising by Black Glacier, Norway – Cruising Nordfjorden, Meloy, Norway – Kristiansund, Norway – Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland For more details: Visitwww.fredolsencruises.com/cruise/spitsbergen-with-the-midnight-sun-l2317
Balmoral’s nine-night L2320 ‘Discover Scandinavia’s Viking Heritage’ cruise, departing from Rosyth on 16th August 2023. Prices start from £1,399 per person. Enjoy a free all inclusive drinks package when booked by 31st October 2022 inclusive. Itinerary: Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland – Aalborg, Denmark – Cruising Limfjorden, Denmark – Hundsted, Denmark – Cruising by the Olsen Family Home, Norway – Cruising Oslofjord, Norway – Oslo, Norway – Cruising Hidrasund & Strandsfjorden, Norway – Stavanger, Norway – Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland – Cruising by Lindisfarne & Bamburgh Castle, United Kingdom – Rosyth, Edinburgh, Scotland For more details: Visit www.fredolsencruises.com/cruise/scandinavias-viking-heritage-l2320
For further information, visit fredolsencruises.com. Book online, call our Reservations team on 0800 0355 242 (Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm), or contact your ABTA travel agent
Large crowds expected as cortege travels from Royal Mile to Edinburgh Airport
People are expected to gather in large numbers in Edinburgh today to pay their final respects to Her Majesty The Queen.
After the Lying at Rest, the coffin will be transported from St Giles’ Cathedral to Edinburgh Airport.
The cortège will follow this route: St Giles’ Cathedral – Lawnmarket – Johnston Terrace – Castle Terrace – Lothian Road – Queensferry Street – Dean Bridge – Queensferry Road – Maybury Road – Turnhouse Road – Edinburgh Airport.
This will have a significant impact on public transport services across the city and on surrounding trunk roads including the M8 and the Edinburgh City Bypass.
People are being asked to work from home if they can, and those not wishing to pay their respects in person are being asked to avoid any non-essential travel.
There will be significant disruption to travel along the route of the Queen’s coffin with numerous road closures from 1pm. Some schools in Edinburgh will also be impacted and close earlier.
Latest traffic and school information can be found on the City of Edinburgh Council website.
The schools and early years centres affected are:
Early years centres
Cammo Kindergarten
Fox Covert Early Years Centre
Fox Covert Kindergarten
Lauriston Kindergarten
Primary schools
Blackhall
Clermiston
Cramond
Davidson’s Mains
East Craigs
Ferryhill
Flora Stevenson
Fox Covert
Hillwood
Stockbridge
St Andrew’s Fox Covert
High schools
Broughton
Craigmount
St Augustine’s
St Thomas of Aquin’s
The Royal High School
Special schools
Rowanfield
Oaklands
The route the Queen’s cortege will travel means the following roads will close between 4pm and 6.30pm:
Johnstone Terrace
Lothian Road
Queensferry Street
Dean Bridge
Queensferry Road
In addition to roads on the route, extensive closures and diversions of adjoining roads will be in place, including all crossover junctions. This will have a significant knock-on impact on surrounding trunk roads including the M8 and the Edinburgh City Bypass.
The Scottish Government is working with City of Edinburgh Council, Transport Scotland, Police Scotland, ScotRail and other partners to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, however, lengthy delays are to be expected.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “This will be an extremely busy time in Edinburgh as members of the public come to pay their final respects. In light of this, we respectfully ask people to avoid non-essential travel if possible.
“Those wishing to line the route should plan ahead taking into consideration local road closures, allowing for extra time and limited facilities. Prepare for long periods of standing and large crowds. Check the weather before you leave and bring water.
“Information on travel can be found at Traffic Scotland, Traveline Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council, Lothian Buses, Edinburgh Tram and ScotRail websites and social media channels. We are encouraging everyone to check for the latest information before finalising their travel plans.”
Traffic Scotland Operator Manager Stein Connolly said: “Monday and Tuesday will be extremely busy for Edinburgh, the City Bypass, and the surrounding network, due to a series of road closures and the sheer volume of people expected to line the streets.
“We want to strike a balance and ensure those who wish to pay their respects can do so safely. If you can work from home we would strongly encourage you to do so. Please consider your need to travel if you are not attending any of the advertised events.
“If you do plan to pay respects in person, please allow extra time for your journey and leave the car at home. Consider public transport options, or if you need to use a car, think about car sharing and using park and ride facilities where possible. On arrival, be prepared for long periods of standing. Bring water and dress for the weather. Most importantly – let’s look out for each other.
“Please continue to check Traffic Scotland and Traveline Scotland, Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Tram websites – as well as @edintravel and @ScotRail social channels for updates before finalising your travel plans.”
Police Scotland Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “We share the respect and affection the public is demonstrating for Her Majesty and urge everyone to continue to be safe as they do so.
“Roads around Edinburgh are expected to be very busy on Tuesday with closures in place and people should plan ahead and follow travel advice.”
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Tuesday’s events will be of an unprecedented scale, even for our Capital City, so I’m really proud that Edinburgh’s playing such a significant role in these ceremonial events with the eyes of the world are on us.
“Thousands of people lined the Royal Mile to hear the proclamation of the new King and we’ll continue to work closely with Scottish Government, Police Scotland and transport providers to manage disruption and safely accommodate the large numbers of visitors who will wish to pay their respects on Tuesday.
“We’re reminding everyone to consider their travel needs and avoid any non-essential travel throughout the day. For those who choose to try and attend events, please be aware that you may need to sit or stand for a number of hours so dress for the weather and with limited facilities, we recommend that you prepare accordingly.”
Alex Hynes, Managing Director of Scotland’s Railway said: “We are doing everything we can to support people to pay their respects while Her Majesty The Queen lies at rest in Edinburgh.
“We expect trains to be busier than normal over the coming days, particularly to and from Edinburgh. Passengers are advised to download the ScotRail app or visit scotrail.co.uk for the latest information.”
The coffin procession will depart St. Giles’ Cathedral for Edinburgh Airport at 5pm.
Those wishing to attend are being urged to do so safely, plan ahead and allow extra time, taking account of local and city centre road closures, weather conditions, limited facilities, crowded roads and very busy public transport, and the likelihood of spending many hours at the roadside.
Significant numbers of stewards are being drafted in, alongside police officers, to help keep the public safe. The stewards will provide advice on routes from car parks, identified crossing points and safe viewing areas.
People are being urged to consider if their journey is absolutely necessary and to work from home if possible. If travel is essential, please allow for extra time, and if possible walk or cycle, use alternative routes or travel at a different time.
Travel information:
There will be rolling road closures along the route. Other roads in the area are expected to be significantly affected as large numbers of people from across Scotland and beyond come to pay their respects.
Those coming to the area by car should reconsider and look at using one of seven park and rides to get a bus or train into the city. Allow plenty of time to travel and park within the designated areas. Please try to share lifts with friends, family and neighbours wherever possible.
The @edintravel traffic information team will be carefully monitoring the city’s roads, sharing the latest information on disruption and diversions on Twitter.
People intending to view the Queen’s cortege, should not leave their vehicle at the side of the road as this poses a risk to public safety. Parking is only allowed in designated areas and the directions of stewards and police officers must be followed.
People are urged not to stand in any unsafe areas and to keep off the carriageway at all times.
Drivers must only park where it is safe to do so, and to respect the needs of residents and businesses to access their premises.
For safety reasons, do not throw flowers on the road or towards the cortege.
Please note that before and after the movement of the vehicles the route remains open and fully operational and normal safety processes apply.
Special birthday celebrations have taken place as airborne twins mark 40 years since their delivery on board an air ambulance with the UK’s largest regional airline Loganair.
40 years ago, on 13 August, twins Lynsey and David Henderson were uniquely born almost 40 miles apart. The eldest of the two, Lynsey was delivered by Dr. Freshwater on the special Britten-Norman Islander air ambulance flight as it flew over the sea enroute from Tingwall Airport to Aberdeen.
Younger brother David waited until wheels-down on the runway at Aberdeen Airport to make his special appearance.
Twins Lynsey and David, who had arrived four weeks earlier than their due date, were then whisked to Aberdeen Hospital for review, alongside first-time mum Mandy Henderson and dad Adrian Henderson.
Ten days later, after a short stay in hospital, Mandy and Adrian returned home to Shetland, this time with planned company from their new-born baby twins.
Earlier this week, Lynsey and David were both welcomed back to Shetland by Loganair to be presented with a birthday gift of flight tickets from Captain Eddie Watt at Sumburgh Airport.
It was an extra-special meeting as Eddie Watt gifted birthday treats from the airline to David and Lynsey some 19 years ago for their 21st birthday.
Still flying Loganair to this day, coincidentally the twins landed in Sumburgh on a Loganair flight from Bergen to be greeted by the airline staff.
Lynsey had recently competed in the gruelling Norseman Triathlon with encouragement from her support team, which included brother David. Lynsey, a chemist at The Sullom Voe Terminal in Shetland, secured her place at the Norseman following success at the Celtman Extreme Triathlon in the Scottish Highlands and has previously competed for Shetland at the Island Games.
The special delivery on board back in 1982 welcomed just two of over 20 airborne childbirths that Loganair has supported throughout its 60-year history. As the UK’s largest regional airline and one that flies to more island destinations across Britain than any other airline, it still plays a significant role in transporting patients to mainland hospital appointments today.
More recently, Loganair renovated its regular DHC-6 Twin Otter and Saab 340 aircraft into air ambulances to support the Scottish Ambulance Service with transfers during the Coronavirus pandemic.
David Henderson, a civil servant based in Lerwick, said: “It’s nice for a couple of ageing twins that our birth, on an ambulance flight 40 years ago, has become a small part of the history of the important Shetland to Aberdeen route.
“Our thanks to Loganair for marking the occasion.”
Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s Chief Executive, said: “We have a long history of connecting communities for all kinds of travel requirements, including the unexpected ones.
“David and Lynsey are part of a small but elite club of babies born on board with Loganair and it was great to present them with a small token to mark their 40th birthday celebrations. We’re very proud to still play an important role today in connecting remote communities to the mainland for NHS treatment.”
Project seeks to showcase east Cowal (Argyll) historic landmarks
The ECHO (East Cowal Heritage Outdoors) Trails project, a network of landmarks and walking trails encompassing the shores of Holy Loch, Loch Eck, Loch Long and Loch Goil, has been officially launched after a two-year delay due to Covid-19.
Representatives from Forestry & Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the AITC (Argyll & Isles Tourism Co-operative), Dunoon Area Alliance, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Bookpoint Dunoon gathered recently at Historic Kilmun to celebrate the launch.
The ECHO Trails incorporates ten key landmarks around the east Cowal peninsula, including Puck’s Glen, Benmore Botanic Garden and the beach at Ardentinny, as well as a number of places of interest that reflect the rich heritage and notable, historic personalities associated with this small corner of Argyll.
Funding for the project has come from Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Bookpoint Dunoon, HES and the Culture and Business Fund Scotland.
Jenni Minto, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Argyll and Bute, commented: “Cowal is such a beautiful part of the world, rich in landmarks and history, so anything that can be done to help showcase this should be encouraged and the ECHO trails project does just that!”
Ciorsdan Taylor, AITC Community Engagement Agent for Cowal, commented: “The ECHO Trails are a wonderful way of showcasing the interesting heritage and landmarks we have here in Cowal and there are many of them to see.
“The AITC is very glad to be supporting and promoting this great resource within Cowal and we hope that many visitors to the area and local people will use it for many years to come.”
Dinah McDonald, owner of the Bookpoint bookshop in Dunoon, said: “We are delighted to sponsor this fascinating project which will enable so many more people to explore and appreciate the amazing heritage of this peaceful corner of Argyll.
“Stunning scenery, amazing wildlife and a historical heritage going back over 3000 years, it feels like the heritage of Scotland all in one small area.”
Rob Wilkinson, appointed co-ordinator for the project earlier this year, commented: “The ECHO Trails builds on the great work of Robin Patel carried out before the arrival of the coronavirus and seeks to create an identity for this part of the world in much the same way as the Secret Coast and the Clyde Sea Lochs Trail around Dumbarton and Helensburgh.
“Links have been established with a number of community-focused organisations and individuals and we will soon be appointing a “Friends of the ECHO Trails” committee to determine the future direction of the project. There is so much potential when it comes to building a vibrant community network”.
Amy Eastwood, Head of Grants at HES, said: “We’re pleased to support this project as part of our Organisational Support Fund. The ECHO Trail is a fantastic way to encourage visitors to explore the history and heritage of East Cowal.”
Steve Gillen of Forestry & Land Scotland said: “It’s fantastic to see this project finally coming to fruition after so much hard work by the ECHO team over the past few years.
“It is a great opportunity to highlight the number and variety of destinations in the area, and to promote and encourage responsible public access across them.”
The ECHO Trails project will be linking up with the Cowal Open Studios network to showcase the work of local artists on the 24th and 25th September at Historic Kilmun to coincide with the COS open studios weekend (23rd to 26th September).
For more information please visit www.echotrails.org. A free app “ECHO Trails” is also available for download.
The benefits of booking with a Travel Agent and the myths dispelled
Today, Friday, 22nd July, marks National Travel Agent Day. Across the UK and Ireland more than 3,700 travel agents and over 11,000 homeworkers will be celebrating this trusted profession dating back to the early 1800s.
Launched during the pandemic by adventure travel company Intrepid, National Travel Agent Day was conceived as a way of gaining support and recognition for the industry during a turbulent period of trading and restrictions.
Today, with the onset of the cost-of-living crisis and the continuing ‘travel chaos’ headlines, the day continues to mark the great service travel agents deliver to UK consumers as more and more people recognise the many benefits of booking with their local agent.
A recent impact survey* conducted by The Advantage Travel Partnership showed of the 94% of respondents who are seeing an increase in new customers, 30% reported these new customers fall into the 35–44-year-old age bracket, with 33% of new customers aged between 45-54 and 15% over 60.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO, The Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “As the biggest Travel Agency partnership in the UK, today we stand shoulder to shoulder with all the travel agents across the UK who have had to manage their way through an incredibly tough few years.
“While the challenges continue, as an industry we face the future with optimism. Travel and holidays remain on the top of the priority list for many millions of Brits and there continues to be a huge post-pandemic, pent-up demand for travel, even though the market is currently hampered by the significant disruption we’re experiencing.
“Nonetheless, in a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain, booking with a travel agent is still the best way to travel as they offer such extensive support and peace of mind, should the unexpected happen.”
Travel agents have played a key role on the UK’s high streets and local communities for many years, with Thomas Cook widely credited as being the first travel agent, back in 1841.
Today, they continue to provide a valuable service to consumers the world over and is a sector that constantly reinvents itself, with many agents now offering both a shop and online proposition to make it more convenient for consumers.
10 myth-busting reasons to book with a Travel Agent
Travel agents are true professionals who are trained in understanding the broad-ranging world of travel, from train travel to cruising, from package holidays to solo tours – there’s nothing they won’t explore for their clients.
Travel agents can navigate complex booking processes, so you don’t have to – from ensuring international flights connect, to planning detailed itineraries to far-flung destinations.
Travel agents can tailor packages to suit their customers, always planning what is right for each individual.
Travel agents can support customers with changes to bookings when the unexpected happens; they will go above and beyond to provide help in any circumstances – from in-destination travel restrictions to flight disruption.
Travel agents will always find you the best deal for your holiday. With access to many thousands of competitive offers across a wide range of holidays and travel products, travel agents have access to an overview of the entire travel ecosystem.
Travel agents have constantly evolved with the times, with most agents now having both a shop-based and online offering giving consumers the opportunity to book through the most convenient channel.
Booking with a travel agent is not more expensive. Travel agents have access to preferential rates that consumers won’t find online and with 700 branches, Advantage members have access to competitive pricing.
Independent travel agents have access to a wide range of tour operators meaning consumers will get a breadth of choice when it comes to choosing their holiday and can offer unbiased advice.
Travel Agents can provide all the information that you need, from visa information to vaccination advice, from weather in resort to places to visit whilst on holiday.
Travel agents are seeing an influx of new consumers across all age demographics benefiting from the peace of mind that comes with booking through a travel agent.
