Ewan Mowat

Glasgow's Bothwell Street is being converted into Gotham City for filming of The Batman: Part II, with snow, Christmas decorations, Gotham signage, police vehicles and filming equipment installed around the city centre. Robert Pattinson, Colin Farrell, Jeffrey Wright and Andy Serkis are among the returning cast, with Matt Reeves directing. Filming will take place at several locations in August, causing road closures, and the film is scheduled for cinema release on February 18, 2028.

A Cairngorms National Park wildfire had burned for 11 days, prompting the evacuation of homes near Nethy Bridge and the deployment of more than 500 firefighters. Justice Secretary Neil Gray said the Scottish Government did not expect additional UK military assistance because the military lacked the tactical aerial helicopter capability required, while commercial helicopters and substantial ground resources remained in use. Police Scotland said the fire was no longer a major incident after containment efforts reduced risks to communities, although firefighting continued. The Abernethy Highland Games scheduled for August 8 were cancelled because the local community centre was being used by emergency services and many volunteers were helping with the response.

A body was recovered from water near Forest Road in Cumbernauld on July 23 during the search for 46-year-old Hamish MacVicar, who had been reported missing the previous night. The body has not been formally identified, although MacVicar’s family has been informed. Police are treating the death as unexplained, with no suspicious circumstances currently suspected.

STV aired its final dedicated News at Six programme from Aberdeen as the bulletin moves to Glasgow under previously approved changes by Ofcom. Longtime presenter Norman MacLeod delivered his final sign‑off after nearly four decades on air. The restructuring affects about 30 roles and reduces region‑specific content to roughly 30 percent in northern broadcasts, despite opposition from the Scottish Government and political parties. STV will continue producing two regional editions, with Aberdeen facilities used as needed.

A Scottish man, David Kelly, died after becoming critically ill at a Turkish airport while preparing to fly home. He spent four weeks in a Turkish intensive care unit before being repatriated to Scotland, where he later passed away at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. A fundraiser has been launched to support his family with medical and funeral costs and to donate to Kidney Research UK and the hospital's ICU. Tributes from family, friends and community members describe him as a devoted husband, father and respected professional.

Police arrested a 36-year-old man in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl in Springburn Park, Glasgow. The girl was reportedly pushed into bushes and seriously assaulted on June 26 near the park’s Moongate. Officers conducted extensive enquiries and increased patrols in the area. Detective Inspector Sharon McPeake thanked the public for their assistance and encouraged residents with concerns to speak to police.

Jurors in the trial of two teenagers accused of murdering 15-year-old Amen Teklay will resume deliberations after failing to reach a verdict. The boys, who deny the charges, are accused of attacking Teklay with a sword in Glasgow. The judge instructed jurors on considering self-defence and potential joint responsibility. Defence arguments for the second accused emphasised his cooperation with police and lack of involvement in any conflict, asserting insufficient evidence for conviction.

Campaigners and community groups in Fife and Falkirk are urging Scots to lodge objections before the July 2 deadline for two proposed hyperscale AI data centres that would require a combined 900 megawatts of power. Action to Protect Rural Scotland warns of significant environmental, energy grid and community impacts and calls for a national moratorium, while local leaders highlight growing public opposition, including thousands of objections. The Scottish Government has rejected a moratorium but First Minister John Swinney indicated he may consider whether decisions on such developments should remain at local authority level.

A 17-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in a Coatbridge lane around 1am near Auldhame Street and Blair Road. Police Scotland launched an investigation and issued a description of the male suspect. Detective Sergeant Jo McCall urged witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. Information can be reported to police using reference 0227 of June 28 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

King Charles III offered condolences to Scotland’s national football team after its World Cup elimination, praising the pride the team brought by qualifying for the first time in over 25 years. His message followed confirmation of Scotland’s exit after Croatia’s win over Ghana. Steve Clarke resigned as head coach, receiving tributes from First Minister John Swinney for leading the team to multiple major tournaments and ending a decades-long absence from the World Cup. Clarke’s farewell letter thanked players and supporters for their achievements during his tenure.

Steve Clarke resigned as Scotland’s head coach after the team failed to progress beyond the World Cup group stage despite securing their first tournament win since 1990. John Swinney expressed regret at Clarke’s departure and praised his leadership in guiding Scotland to multiple major tournaments, including their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Clarke’s farewell letter thanked players and supporters, emphasising pride in the team’s progress.

A roundup of major crime stories in Scotland highlights the accounts of two Muslim students injured in an alleged anti‑Muslim knife attack in Edinburgh, a teenager seriously hurt in a suspected stabbing in Irvine, and developments on a new film about ex‑gangster Paul Ferris. Political tensions surface as experts warn the SNP fears an independent inquiry into Peter Murrell’s embezzlement case, with whistleblowers alleging internal bullying and misconduct. The report also includes the death of a man in a tractor accident in Fife, which is not being treated as suspicious.

King Charles III formally opened the seventh session of the Scottish Parliament during a ceremony featuring musicians, cultural performances and a procession involving the Crown of Scotland. In his address, he urged protection of Scotland’s natural environment and respectful political debate. First Minister John Swinney welcomed the King and spoke about hopes for a renewed political culture. The event highlighted contributions from young people, athletes and cultural organisations marking milestone anniversaries, with the King and Queen later meeting community nominees recognised for their local impact.

A former British Airways pilot, Kwame Yeboah, groomed a 12‑year‑old girl he met on Omegle and communicated with via Instagram before driving from Reading to Merseyside to rape her. The girl’s mother alerted police, leading to an investigation that revealed repeated abuse. Liverpool Crown Court found evidence of manipulation and grooming, sentencing Yeboah to eight years and four months in prison plus an additional year on licence. He received a 15‑year restraining order and will remain on the sex offenders register for life, while the victim continues to struggle with the impact of the abuse.

Gordon Brown calls for an inquiry into World Cup ticket prices, arguing that ordinary fans are being priced out due to what he calls extortionate costs, particularly in comparison with previous tournaments. He criticises Fifa for retaining too much revenue and not supporting grassroots football. Brown also comments on high transport and drink prices faced by fans in Boston and expresses optimism about Scotland’s chances against Brazil. Fifa defends its pricing strategy, saying it provides affordable ticket categories and a regulated resale marketplace aligned with industry standards.

A roundup of major crime stories in Scotland highlights the possible co-location of Peter Murrell and convicted killer Alexandra Stewart at HMP Dumfries, the sentencing of former boxing promoter Mario Rea for involvement in organised crime, a driverless car accident injuring a lollipop man in Fife, and an unexplained death under investigation in Larkhall. A legal expert outlines that Murrell is likely to be released after serving half of his prison term due to the nature of his offence and first‑offender status.

A highly rated pub at the foot of Ben Nevis is highlighted for its scenic beer garden, popular food and drink offerings, live music, and accommodation for hikers and visitors. Patrons consistently praise its atmosphere, views, and service, making it a standout destination near Fort William.

Scotland’s forecast of warm, sunny weather for the Spring Bank Holiday provides ideal conditions for visiting scenic destinations. Suggested spots include Luss on Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms, Coldingham Bay, St Ninian’s Isle in Shetland, An Lochan Uaine, Duncarnock Hill Fort near Glasgow, Puck’s Glen in Argyll, Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe and the Jupiter Artland park near Edinburgh, offering options from beaches and hill walks to cultural attractions.

Retailers across Scotland and the wider UK outline their opening hours for the Spring Bank Holiday on May 25. B&M and Wickes will operate normal hours, while John Lewis, Home Bargains, Primark and Boots advise customers to check local store listings due to variations. Warm weather is expected to draw people outdoors, but those planning shopping or DIY are urged to confirm schedules before visiting.

Quiz Clothing will close all remaining UK stores in June after entering administration, ending more than three decades in business. Administrators from Interpath confirmed that the final 37 stores will shut, resulting in around 360 job losses, with significant discounts offered during the closing‑down sale. The Glasgow‑founded retailer previously underwent major restructuring, including multiple store closures and redundancies following financial difficulties. Stock is being moved to remaining stores as they prepare for permanent closure.

Dog owners are urged to follow a five‑second pavement temperature test during warm weather to avoid paw injuries and reduce the risk of heat stroke, especially for flat‑nosed breeds. Experts advise early‑morning or evening walks, ample ventilation, accessible water, shade, and vigilance for heat‑related symptoms. Hot cars, conservatories, and sun‑exposed garden areas are highlighted as dangerous, while regular flea treatment is recommended. Insure Your Paws offers round‑the‑clock veterinary support for pet owners.

Scotland is set for warm bank holiday weather, prompting the Met Office and RNLI to issue safety advice for beachgoers. Officials warn that coastal weather can change quickly, UV exposure increases near water and sand, and sea temperatures remain cool despite high air temperatures. A revamped Met Office app now provides detailed beach forecasts, while the RNLI promotes its Float To Live guidance to help people stay safe in the water.

Rising World Cup excitement in Scotland is expected to increase garden football activity, prompting concerns about fence and garden damage. A DIY expert from Ronseal recommends using garden goalposts with nets, reinforcing fence panels with spare wood, and applying protective coatings to improve durability. He also suggests hardy plants such as lavender, ornamental grasses, thyme, and nasturtiums to withstand accidental impacts. Additional advice includes maintaining decking to prevent slips and splinters during summer play.

Forecasts show warm weather across Scotland during the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, but temperatures are not expected to reach the Met Office’s 25C threshold required for a heatwave. Parts of England and Wales may meet their higher thresholds, with temperatures potentially reaching the highest May levels since 2012. High pressure will bring settled and warm conditions for most of the UK, though northwestern Scotland may remain cooler with some rain and a small chance of thunderstorms in the south.

Supermarkets across Scotland will operate mostly normal or slightly reduced hours for the Spring Bank Holiday on May 25, with variations depending on the retailer and individual store location. Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, Marks & Spencer and Morrisons all outline their expected operating times and advise customers to check local store information due to potential differences.

Good Housekeeping’s annual barbecue taste test ranked the best burgers, sausages, steaks, chicken, meat-free options, sides and desserts from major UK supermarkets, with Asda, Tesco and Aldi securing multiple category wins. Judges scored products on aroma, texture and flavour, highlighting growing interest in globally inspired marinades and innovative twists on traditional barbecue foods.

Petrol prices in the UK have reached their highest level since 2022 due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East and sustained oil costs above $100 per barrel. The RAC warns prices may rise further, with the UK average reaching 158.5p per litre. Fuel Finder UK identifies Asda in Ayr as offering the cheapest petrol in Scotland, while supermarkets generally provide the best value. Prices remain higher in major cities, though Asda continues to offer the lowest rates for non‑members. Motorists have paid an estimated additional £2.9 billion since the conflict began.