Callum Mccormack

Edinburgh Fringe performer Sachie Mikawa cancelled performances of “Egg: The Biggest Unborn Artist” after her Bach Stradivarius trumpet was stolen from the Rotunda Theatre at George Heriot’s School. The instrument, given to her by her father 32 years ago, was her only remaining childhood connection to him after most of her family possessions were destroyed in Japan’s 2011 earthquake and tsunami. A vintage Hohner melodica was also taken. Police Scotland has received a theft report and says inquiries are at an early stage, while Mikawa is appealing for the trumpet’s return and expects further show cancellations until it is recovered.

Fire crews responded to an oil tanker blaze near Dalmeny, South Queensferry, after being alerted shortly after 7:30 a.m. on 7 August 2026. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed four fire appliances and specialist units, advising people to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke. Police Scotland closed the B924 at its junction with the A90, while Lothian Buses diverted its number 43 service away from Dalmeny Main Street.

Seven families in Edgelaw View, Gilmerton, must leave their homes for around six to eight weeks from late August while precautionary groundworks address a previously unidentified mineshaft beneath the development. Residents fear the work could uncover further problems, damage their homes or extend the disruption, and they are concerned about the impact on children, schooling and travel costs when temporary accommodation may be far from Edinburgh. Places for People Scotland and Miller Homes say there is no current or immediate risk and that they will provide alternative accommodation and support with moving and related costs.

Two drivers were taken to hospital following a two‑vehicle crash on the A904 near its junction with the B8046 in Linlithgow. Police Scotland has opened an investigation and is appealing for witnesses or dash‑cam footage from motorists in the area at the time of the collision, asking anyone with information to contact them and quote incident PS‑20260707‑2761.

Heritage organisations are urging full restoration of the fire-damaged former Debenhams building on Princes Street, warning that its loss would significantly impact Edinburgh’s World Heritage status. Edinburgh World Heritage and the Cockburn Association stressed the importance of stabilising the structure, preserving historic elements, and assessing damage before decisions are made. They also highlighted fire risks to other historic properties and called for greater investment in the long‑term protection of the city’s built heritage. Historic Environment Scotland is advising the City of Edinburgh Council as assessments continue.

Firefighters continue managing the aftermath of a significant blaze that damaged an upper-floor building on Princes Street in Edinburgh, with officials warning crews will remain on-site for an extended period to extinguish remaining hot spots. Ten nearby residents were evacuated, and authorities advised locals to keep windows closed. Police Scotland and fire investigators are working to determine the cause as several central streets remain closed with no reopening time confirmed.

A major early-morning fire destroyed a building on Princes Street in Edinburgh, prompting road closures and an emergency response by fire, police, and ambulance crews. Residents described the loss of the historic building as a shame and expressed sadness over the damage. The cause of the blaze remains unknown, and police have begun enquiries.

Union Street in Glasgow is scheduled to fully reopen on July 17 following extensive work to stabilise and clear the area after a March fire that destroyed the Union Corner building. Glasgow City Council confirmed scaffolding removal, final site works, and preparations tied to the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games. Councillors Angus Millar and Susan Aitken highlighted the reopening as a key step in city centre recovery and said plans for temporary use of the site are underway, led by architectural firm O'DonnellBrown.

A man died after being found with serious injuries following a disturbance outside Cable Wynd House in Leith, prompting a major armed police response. A 33-year-old man was arrested as officers and emergency services cordoned off nearby streets, leading to ongoing road closures and bus diversions. Forensic teams were seen at the scene as investigations continued.

A special anniversary screening of Trainspotting will be held at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, featuring live commentary from cast and crew and followed by DJ sets from Irvine Welsh and Darren Emerson. The event takes place at Leith Theatre, which recently secured long-term funding and a new lease. The film will also be re-released by Park Circus across the UK, Ireland, and internationally as part of the BFI Film Audience Network’s Rip it Up season celebrating youth culture.