Fionnuala Boyle

Eight-year-old Clayton Garforth was swept away from Westport beach on the Mull of Kintyre by a sudden swell. He survived by floating on his back and conserving energy, a technique taught by the Tarbert Coastguard Rescue Team at his school only days earlier. HM Coastguard, two RNLI lifeboats and a helicopter responded, while surfers brought Clayton safely ashore before he was taken to hospital and discharged the following day. The incident has renewed attention on water safety and The Mirror’s Save Lives For Sam campaign, which calls for compulsory school lessons, improved rescue equipment and stronger national action to prevent drownings.

Scottish woman Lisa Jane Ross, also known as Elisabeth, was found dead inside a suitcase at a derelict building in Athens on July 18. Greek police believe her phone was used to send messages after her death to make others think she was alive, and they are investigating whether the death resulted from a criminal act while awaiting toxicology and autopsy results. Interpol, US investigators and Police Scotland are assisting, but no suspect has been identified. Friends and relatives have remembered Ross as a kind and generous person.

A 35-year-old father from Ayr was diagnosed with stage four oesophageal adenocarcinoma after initially experiencing difficulty swallowing and significant weight loss. Scans revealed the cancer had spread to multiple organs, and doctors estimate he has around nine months to live. He and his family are focused on creating memories while he seeks access to private treatment and potential clinical trials in Germany and London. He has begun an all-liquid diet and is preparing for chemotherapy as he continues fundraising efforts for further care and support for his family.