Scotland Today

30/01/2025

Marine mammal rescuers are working to free a humpback whale trapped in ropes off Isle of Skye
A spokesperson for British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) said:
“This morning, we were alerted to an entangled humpback whale off the coast of Skye, Scotland. The whale is entangled in a rope and is unable to swim freely.
“Members of our Large Whale Disentanglement Team have mobilised from across the UK and with the help of the local community and emergency services are now working to free the whale as soon as is safely possible.”
Fish farmer Organic Sea Harvest said it is "extremely rare" for whales and other marine mammals to come into contact with their sea sites.
They added: “We understand this is a worrying situation, and we want to assure everyone that we are doing everything possible to help the whale. Our team is fully focused on securing the best possible outcome." Photo: Anthony Rigell/BDMLR

30/01/2025

Sally Magnusson is leaving Reporting Scotland after more than a quarter of a century.
She will step down after 27 years in her role as one of the main presenters of BBC 1's daily news programme in Scotland.
The renowned journalist and author began presenting the flagship news programme from BBC Scotland’s former home in Queen Margaret Drive in Glasgow’s West End in 1998.
After the broadcaster moved to its new centre at Pacific Quay, Sally continued to present the BBC One Scotland show. She’ll anchor the programme for the last time in April.
Sally began her career on Scottish newspapers before moving into broadcasting, first on BBC Scotland’s new Current Account programme and then on various network news programmes including Sixty Minutes, London Plus and Breakfast.
She returned to Scotland and started her regular two days a week presenting Reporting Scotland in addition to working on a variety of other programmes. These have ranged from Sunday Mornings on BBC Radio Scotland to Panorama and Songs of Praise on television. Her most recent television documentary for BBC Scotland was Alzheimer’s, a Cure and Me which aired last year.
Although Sally is stepping down from Reporting Scotland she is not retiring from journalism and plans to continue working with the BBC as a freelance. Outside of her BBC work, Sally is an acclaimed author of fiction and non-fiction and is the founder of the charity Playlist for Life, which promotes the use of music to help people with dementia. She was awarded an MBE in 2023 in recognition of her charity work.
Sally says: ‘Leaving Reporting Scotland will be a real wrench after 27 years. I’ll miss the buzz and challenges of live news presentation, which I’ve always adored. But although my focus now turns to a growing writing career, an expanding family, and my work around dementia, I’m also looking forward to maintaining links with the BBC as a freelance broadcaster.’
Gary Smith, Head of News and Current Affairs at BBC Scotland, says: ‘Sally is an outstanding journalist, broadcaster, and writer. She has skilfully guided viewers through countless big and sometimes difficult stories and the teatime audience will miss her hugely - as will all of us who have worked with her over the years.’

13/01/2025

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13/01/2025

Fraudsters are targetting people in Glasgow in a new scam.

Patients registered with a GP practice in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area are receiving fake calls. In one recent case a patient reported receiving a phone call from an ‘07’ number, in which the caller claimed to be from their GP practice. The message asked the patient to press 1 on the phone to update their contact details.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde warns GP practices will only generally contact you to remind you about an appointment or similar aspect of your care, or to let you know about any disruption of services at your practice. They will never ask for any financial details.

If you receive an unsolicited call claiming to be from a GP surgery and asking for details, please be cautious. Do not provide any details or press a number on your handset unless you are absolutely sure the call is genuine.

If you are at all unsure about any communication claiming to be from your GP practice, please hang up and contact the practice directly using their official phone number or email.

Do NOT call back the number which has just contacted you.

If you have a loved one or friend who you think may be vulnerable to fake calls of this nature, please share this information with them and help them know what to do.

To report a scam call, contact Police Scotland on 101.

13/01/2025

Future Woodlands Scotland has been announced as sponsors of a new Urban Forestry Award at the Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2025.
The new award is all about celebrating the projects that are turning towns and cities into greener, healthier, and more sustainable places to live.
With entries opening in February 2025, Future Woodlands Scotland see the new award as a perfect match for its vision of a Scotland where trees and native woodlands thrive – helping wildlife, people, and the climate all at once.
With 80% of Scotland’s population living in towns and cities, urban forestry is more important than ever. This award will highlight how trees can create resilient, connected communities while enriching urban life.
Shireen Chambers, Chief Executive of Future Woodlands Scotland, said: “At Future Woodlands Scotland, we believe trees matter. Urban forestry plays a critical role in tackling climate change, improving air quality, and boosting biodiversity. This award will shine a light on the inspiring work of individuals and groups who are transforming our cities and communities for the better.
“We’re excited to support the Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards. The addition of this new category is a well-deserved recognition of the growing impact of urban forestry on our environment and quality of life.”
The Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards have been called Scotland’s “Tree Oscars”, celebrating the people and projects making a real difference in nature conservation and woodland management. Now in their 40th year, the awards continue to honour the incredible efforts that help protect and enrich Scotland’s environment.
Jean Nairn, Executive Director of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “It is great to have a new award showcasing some excellent work in urban forestry which is taking place across Scotland.
“And, it is fantastic to have Future Woodlands Scotland on board as a sponsor. They do wonderful work to restore and protect native woodland, as well as bringing environmental and social benefits to cities and towns with the promotion of urban tree planting, biodiversity, education, community engagement, and green job creation.”
The Urban Forestry Award will be open to projects of all sizes, from small, local initiatives to large-scale urban transformations. Individuals, communities, and organisations are encouraged to apply.

13/01/2025

Scotland's former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, and her husband Peter Murrell have “decided to end” their marriage, she said in an announcement on social media.
The couple were married in 2010 in Glasgow.
Ms Sturgeon quit as Scotland's first minister and SNP leader in February 2023 after succeeding Alex Salmond following the independence referendum in 2014.
Mr Murrell resigned his role as the SNP's chief executive a few weeks later following a controversy over party membership numbers
Nicola Sturgeon said: “With a heavy heart I am confirming that Peter and I have decided to end our marriage.
“To all intents and purposes we have been separated for some time now and feel it is time to bring others up to speed with where we are.
“It goes without saying that we still care deeply for each other, and always will.
“We will be making no further comment.”

13/01/2025

CalMac’s new ferry, MV Glen Sannox, successfully completed her maiden voyage to the island of Arran on Sunday.
Her low key debut to commercial service delighted the very first complement of 38 passengers and 15 cars as they filed onboard at Troon. The return from Brodick carried 154 foot passengers, 53 cars and two commercial vehicles.
The Glen Sannox is due to formally commence service on Monday said CalMac.
MV Glen Sannox may well be the only ship plying the route on Monday with chartered catamaran, MV Alfred - which operates the same Arran crossing - calling off her schedule due to weather.
Strong winds are forecast, touching gale force eight levels at times in the Firth of Clyde, with numerous ferries issuing weather disruption alerts.
Glen Sannox’s early morning departure is on yellow alert and may potentially be disrupted. Her other sailings for the rest of the day are set to run as scheduled.
CalMac confirmed that two outstanding issues it had identified regarding the starboard mezz deck and the sewage system, have been resolved ahead of the vessel formally entering service on Monday. A replacement valve has been sourced and fitted on the starboard mezz deck, meaning both mezz decks are now fully operational. The sewage system has been fully optimised for passenger travel.
CalMac chief executive, Duncan Mackison, said: “Operating a test run with MV Glen Sannox gave the crew a fantastic opportunity to stress test the vessel and ensure the experience people have aboard is optimal before she formally enters service.”
“A massive effort has gone into getting MV Glen Sannox to this stage, and everyone at CalMac is excited to have her in the fleet and serving Arran.”

11/01/2025

CalMac has confirmed the new MV Glen Sannox ferry is set to carry her first passengers for Arran on Monday. The vessel commences service on the Troon-Brodick route following the ferry operator’s familiarisation activities with crew.

A small number of issues will continue to be addressed during the first few stages of service, as was the case with both of CalMac’s last two major vessels to enter service, MV Finlaggan and MV Loch Seaforth.

One issue emerged with the starboard mezzanine deck earlier this week and it will not be operational when the vessel enters service. Oil contamination was identified in the hydraulic system for the starboard mezzanine deck, and this resulted in a component failure. This part needs replaced and has been ordered. The cleanliness of the oil in the hydraulic system was checked and found to be satisfactory meaning the system filter have been effective in capturing the contamination. All other hydraulic components onboard the vessel were tested and found to be fully functional.

Given demand levels now and in the coming months, this does not affect planned service levels or capacity.

Duncan Mackison, CalMac’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Great effort has gone into getting MV Glen Sannox ready for service for Monday. It is testament to the commitment of people at CalMac to Arran that we’ve been able to reduce our original schedule for familiarisation and meet an ambitious target for entry to service.

“Launching a new major vessel is akin to buying a new build house. You can move into a new home whilst some small snags are fixed, and we can operate MV Glen Sannox whilst we address a small number of minor issues that have no bearing on the safe operation of the vessel, or the experience passengers have on board.

“We are excited to welcome people on board and look forward to seeing a vessel which will bring great benefit to Arran enter service for the local community.” Photo: Eilidh Carr

31/12/2024

Edinburgh trams will be free to use after the Bells on Hogmanay until the early hours of New Year’s Day to get you home whenever your night ends. The free services will operate between Edinburgh Airport and Newhaven. A full route will now run due to the Edinburgh Hogmanay street party being cancelled.
Trams will operate up in Edinburgh to every 10 minutes from the Bells at midnight until 2 am, then a frequent service until the early hours.

18/12/2024

Free all-night trams in Edinburgh on Hogmanay.

Glide home in Edinburgh after the Bells this Hogmanay a free all-night tram, to get you home as quickly and safely as possible in the early hours of New Year's Day.
Edinburgh Trams will operate the free services between Edinburgh Airport and West End, and between Picardy Place and Newhaven. There will be no trams to Princes Street or St Andrew Square stops due to street party road closures.
The trams will operate up to every 10 minutes from midnight until 2 am, then up to every 20 minutes until approximately 9 am on New Year’s Day so that you can get home whenever your night (or morning!) ends.

18/12/2024

Win a year’s worth of free flights: Loganair invites Highlands and Islands residents to share the magic of reuniting

Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline, is spreading the joy of Christmas as it gifts free flights for an entire year for reconnecting with loved ones.

Inspired by its feel-good Christmas Advert, Loganair, Actually, which features emotional moments of families reuniting across the UK for the holidays, the airline is encouraging entrants to a competition to showcase the magic of their own meetings with loved ones called A Season of Connections.

To enter the competition, entrants must submit a picture or video that captures their heart-warming moment and a small blurb on the reunion. Whether it’s the joy of seeing a family member after months apart, a reunion with a cherished friend, or the excitement of coming home, Loganair wants to celebrate the stories that bring people closer together.

One winner will receive a year’s worth of free flights for themselves and a companion, giving them the chance to create new memories together across Loganair’s extensive network. Additionally, two runners-up will be treated to return flights for two on the airline’s iconic Glasgow to Barra route, famously landing on the beach.

Participants can submit their photos or videos at https://www.loganair.co.uk/campaign/season-of-connections-competition until midnight on Monday, 6 January 2025. Three finalists will be announced on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, and the public can vote for their favourite reunion from then until 9pm on Monday, 20 January 2025. The lucky winner will be announced at midday on Friday, 25 January 2025.

18/12/2024

Some 1,000 solar panels will be installed on top of Glasgow's famous Kelvin Hall. The circuit of solar photovoltaic panels on the Kelvin Hall will be the largest roof top array in Glasgow and one of the biggest anywhere Scotland.

The solar panel installation is part of a drive set to slash energy bills at several Glasgow City Council buildings.

Over 1700 solar panels are being installed in total as part of a scheme that includes arrays on two day care centres, five primary schools as well as the Kelvin Hall. Together they have the capacity to generate more than 700,000 kwh of electricity every year.

Capturing solar energy from the roof top arrays will power the buildings below and in places cover up to 96% of the electricity requirements of each building, saving more than £183,000 from running costs each year. It is anticipated that the solar panels, which have an expected life span in excess of 25 years, will have paid for themselves in around 6 to 7 years.

Glasgow City Council's use of photovoltaic (PV) panels has been growing in recent years with 33 arrays already in place, generating 600,000 kilowatt every year.

Kelvin Hall photo: Glasgow City Council

31/01/2024

American XL bully ban dates confirmed for Scotland

The Scottish government says the first stage of new restrictions will take effect from 23 February.

31/01/2024

Tearful Sturgeon says part of her wishes she wasn't FM during Covid. Scotland's former first minister denied allegations of secrecy within her government, that power was too centralised and that pandemic decisions were made for political reasons.

The former first minister admitted she deleted WhatsApps during the pandemic but insisted she did not use the app to conduct government business.

29/12/2023

Two men sought after car set on fire on Christmas Eve
Shortly after 2am on Sunday, a white Skoda Octavia car was set on fire at a car park in Cumbernauld

Shortly after 2am on Sunday, a white Skoda Octavia car was set on fire at a car park in Cumbernauld.

29/12/2023

SCOTS are bracing for further weather misery in the New Year - just days after Storm Gerrit battered the country. A deep area of low pressure will move into Ireland and the west of Scotland on Saturday, potentially bringing snow to lower levels.

SCOTS are bracing for further weather misery in the New Year – just days after Storm Gerrit battered the country. A deep area of low pressure will move into Ireland and the west of Scotland o…

29/12/2023

Storm Gerrit saw strong winds and heavy rain batter much of Scotland leading to flooding – including in the town of Cupar in Fife

Some residents had to be rescued as floodwater submerged streets in Cupar, Fife.

29/12/2023

Shetland road reopens after hotel suffers roof damage in high winds

THE A970 North Road in Lerwick has been reopened to traffic after diversions were put in place this morning (Thursday) following "significant damage" to the roof of the Shetland Hotel in yesterday's strong winds. Holmsgarth Road was closed to allow the Scottish Fire and Rescue...