Craig Meighan

The UK Government has offered Chinook helicopters for heavy-lift operations and standby battalion personnel to support the response to the Cairngorms wildfire, following a request from Scotland’s Justice Secretary. First Minister John Swinney said Scotland had requested military aircraft capable of dropping water, but the Ministry of Defence did not possess suitable UK-based aerial firefighting assets; he described the alternative offer as unnecessary because Scottish Fire and Rescue Service had the resources it needed. Heavy rain and low winds have slowed the fire after 11 days, allowing evacuated residents of Nethy Bridge to return. More than 75 firefighters, nine fire appliances and three helicopters remain deployed, with hundreds of firefighters, partner staff and volunteers having supported the operation since it began on July 15.

Police Scotland has reopened an investigation into a reported attempted rape at Mohamed Al Fayed’s Balnagown Estate in Easter Ross, allegedly occurring in 1991. The case was revived after a new witness came forward, following an earlier investigation into a non-recent sexual assault that was completed in 2024. Al Fayed, who died in 2023, has faced more than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct dating back to 1977.

Wildfire warnings across the Central Highlands and Southern and Eastern Scotland have been extended until Friday as fire crews continue tackling large blazes in the Cairngorms and on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service urged the public to avoid outdoor fires and barbecues and to follow safety guidance, stressing the environmental impact and disruption caused by recent wildfires.

Campaigners and lawyers are urging the Scottish and UK governments to introduce compensation and long-term support for victims of historic forced adoption, following apologies from both Westminster and Holyrood. Advocates argue that financial redress, psychological care and access to records are essential to address the lasting trauma experienced by unmarried mothers who were coerced into giving up their children. Prime Minister Keir Starmer formally apologised on behalf of the UK Government, acknowledging systemic failings across public and faith institutions. The Scottish Government highlighted funding for counselling, peer support and improved record access, while the UK Government noted its £4 million allocation for support services, though not direct compensation.

Sir Mark Jones has resigned as chairman of Historic Environment Scotland less than a year into his tenure, following ongoing controversies involving governance failures, misconduct allegations and an auditor report citing unacceptable weaknesses. Political figures blamed leadership instability and government mismanagement, while the Scottish Government expressed gratitude for Jones’s service and confirmed he will remain in place until a successor is appointed.