Lucinda Cameron

A large wildfire in the Cairngorms has burned more than 740 acres, prompting evacuations of homes, campsites and resorts in Glenmore Forest Park. Firefighters using multiple engines and specialist equipment continue efforts to contain the blaze, described as a prolonged incident but managed with adequate resources. Government officials and emergency leaders emphasise public safety and warn people to avoid the area. Hot, dry weather has heightened wildfire risk across Scotland, with additional fires reported in West Lothian.

A large wildfire in the Cairngorms forced evacuations as flames spread across more than two kilometres of heathland near Ryvoan Bothy. Homes, businesses and campsites in the Glenmore area were cleared, with authorities urging residents to avoid the area and keep windows closed due to smoke. Firefighters worked overnight with landowners to create fire breaks amid high winds. Officials warned that hot, dry conditions have placed much of Scotland at very high wildfire risk through Monday.

A mother urges young people to get the MenB vaccine after her son nearly died from meningitis B during his first year at the University of Glasgow. Following recent outbreaks, Scotland has introduced a new vaccination programme targeting high‑risk age groups and university entrants. Public Health Scotland stresses vaccination as the most effective protection against meningococcal disease.

King Charles and Queen Camilla will formally open the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with Sir Chris Hoy participating in the ceremony. The King will read the message he placed in the King’s Baton, which has toured all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories. The Games will run from July 23 to August 2, featuring more than 3,000 athletes competing in 10 sports and six Para sports, while also promoting the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Plastics Campaign.

A major overnight fire severely damaged the former Debenhams building on Princes Street in Edinburgh, prompting a large emergency response and the deployment of multiple fire engines and specialist units. The blaze was brought under control with no reported injuries, but significant sections of the city centre were cordoned off, causing tram and bus service disruptions. Locals lamented damage to the historic structure.

Food Process Engineering Limited was fined after an investigation found it failed to properly assess and manage risks before a dismantling operation in Renfrew, where employee Steven Tervit fell from a scissor lift and later died from his injuries. The Health and Safety Executive determined that inadequate risk assessment and missing structural supports contributed to the collapse that caused the fatal fall.

A worker died after falling from a scissor lift at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland when wall panels collapsed during dismantling work. Food Process Engineering Limited, the subcontractor overseeing the job, was found to have failed to assess and manage structural risks and lacked required support props. The company admitted breaching health and safety law and was fined £50,000 plus a surcharge. An HSE inspector highlighted the lack of planning and the ongoing dangers of falls from height.

Kyle Patrick was sentenced to eight years in prison and given a 10-year driving ban for causing the death of 19-year-old Erin Slane while driving drunk at excessive speeds in Perthshire. Slane died at the scene after sending fearful messages to friends moments before the crash. The court heard that Patrick drove at up to 119mph with an exceptionally high blood alcohol level, with the judge describing his actions as a prolonged and deliberate disregard for safety.

A 23-year-old man, Kyle Patrick, was sentenced to eight years in prison for causing the death of 19-year-old Erin Slane by dangerous, alcohol‑impaired driving in Perthshire. Slane sent a text expressing fear for her life moments before the crash, which occurred after Patrick drove at excessive speeds and lost control of the vehicle. The crash also seriously injured another passenger, Keira Jones. The judge condemned Patrick’s prolonged reckless behaviour and noted the devastating impact on the victim’s family.

A Glasgow jury found two teenagers not guilty of murdering 15‑year‑old Amen Teklay, who died after being stabbed with a sword in March last year. One accused admitted the stabbing, claiming self‑defence, while the other denied any involvement. The jury accepted their defences after two days of deliberation. Following the verdict, a community representative delivered a statement on behalf of Teklay’s family expressing ongoing grief and announcing plans for a foundation in his name focused on supporting young people and steering them away from violence.

Doctors in Scotland warn that an online trend encouraging children to microwave squishy toys has led to multiple cases of severe burns, with some patients requiring surgery and skin grafts. Hospitals in Glasgow have treated six affected children in recent months, prompting parents and medical professionals to urge greater awareness and supervision to prevent further injuries.

Doctors in Scotland warn of a dangerous online trend where children microwave squishy toys, causing them to explode and release hot gel that leads to severe burns. Hospitals in Glasgow have treated multiple cases, with some children requiring surgery and skin grafts. Parents report not realising the risks after their children attempted what they saw online. Burns specialists urge vigilance, noting the potential for deep burns, long-term treatment and permanent scarring.

Construction has begun on a £750 million national supercomputer near Edinburgh, expected to be 50 times more powerful than the existing Archer2 system. Hosted by the University of Edinburgh and funded by the UK Government, the machine will support advances in fields ranging from drug discovery to engineering and artificial intelligence. Officials and researchers describe the project as a major enhancement of the UK’s scientific infrastructure, supporting economic growth, innovation and sustainability. Completion is expected in 2027, with operational readiness in 2028.

Iron Age artefacts recovered from the burial of a young man discovered in Alloa, Scotland, will be publicly displayed for the first time. The grave, dating to around 10–70 AD, contained weaponry and personal items suggesting high status. The collection forms a central feature of the “Scotland’s First Warriors” exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

A richly furnished Iron Age burial discovered in Alloa containing weapons, jewellery and other artifacts from around 10–70 AD is being publicly displayed for the first time in an exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland. The finds, believed to indicate the high status of a young man aged 17 to 25, were uncovered in 2003 and later conserved by specialists. The exhibition, Scotland’s First Warriors, explores early conflict and features replicas and other significant archaeological discoveries from across Scotland.

Counter-terrorism officers are investigating multiple attacks across Edinburgh in which five men, several of them Muslim, were injured. A 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested after reports of a man with a knife in the streets. Government officials condemned the incidents as motivated by anti-Muslim hatred, while Police Scotland opened a major incident portal as three victims required hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

Vittoria Bucknall, a consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, will receive a British Empire Medal for her role in treating victims of the 2024 Southport knife attack. Her emergency surgeries and ongoing support were credited with saving the lives and mobility of severely injured children, including a seven‑year‑old with more than 30 stab wounds. The attack killed three children and injured ten others; perpetrator Axel Rudakubana received a life sentence. Bucknall described the honour as humbling, while the nominator praised her exceptional dedication under extreme circumstances.

A rare bronze Roman brooch discovered in a Midlothian field in 2022 will be publicly displayed for the first time as part of the Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. Dated to 100–160 AD and blending local and Roman design styles, the brooch is believed to have been crafted in northern England and given as a status symbol to a local leader. The exhibition, running from November 2026 to April 2027, will showcase artefacts that shed new light on Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world.

A rare bronze Roman brooch discovered in Midlothian in 2022 will go on public display for the first time at the National Museum of Scotland as part of the exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire. The artifact blends Roman and local design traditions, likely served as a gift to a local leader, and reflects cultural interactions during the Roman presence in northern Britain. The exhibition will explore the experiences of Roman soldiers, nearby communities, and local populations affected by the invasion, featuring notable finds including altars from the Mithras temple at the fort of Inveresk.

Streamline Shipping Agencies Limited was fined £146,700 and ordered to pay an £11,000 victim surcharge after a 43-year-old employee at its Aberdeen facility suffered severe injuries when struck by a reversing forklift in September 2024. A Health and Safety Executive investigation found the company failed to provide safe circulation for pedestrians and vehicles, leading to a guilty plea for breaching workplace safety regulations.

A 16-year-old boy died after getting into difficulty in the water at Bracklinn Falls in Stirlingshire, becoming the 12th water-related fatality during the UK’s current heatwave. Police Scotland stated the death is not suspicious. A separate drowning of a 14-year-old boy occurred the same day in the River Thames. The UK Health Security Agency issued a yellow heat health alert for parts of England, warning of increased risks including cold-water shock and drowning.

A 16-year-old boy died at Bracklinn Falls in Stirlingshire after getting into difficulty in the water, becoming the 12th fatality linked to open water during a severe heatwave. Multiple similar deaths have occurred across the UK as temperatures reached 35.1C. Authorities including Police Scotland and Thames Valley Police reported additional recent incidents, while the UK Health Security Agency issued a heat health alert warning of increased water-related risks. Data from national bodies indicates a seasonal pattern in accidental drownings, with inland waters accounting for most fatalities.

The Caledonian Sleeper unveiled new train coaches decorated with scenes from the television series Outlander to encourage tourism to Scottish filming locations. Sam Heughan presented the redesign at London Euston, part of a collaboration between VisitScotland and Sony Pictures Television that also introduces an Outlander‑themed onboard menu featuring The Sassenach whisky. The launch precedes World Outlander Day and the series finale.

A newly wrapped Caledonian Sleeper train featuring Outlander-themed designs was unveiled at London Euston, promoting Scottish tourism ahead of World Outlander Day. The collaboration between VisitScotland, Sony Pictures Television and Sassenach Spirits aims to encourage fans to visit filming locations using the overnight rail service. Sam Heughan introduced the redesign and highlighted its connection to Scottish culture, while the service also launched an Outlander-inspired menu featuring his whisky. Caledonian Sleeper leadership emphasized the partnership’s role in showcasing Scotland and supporting sustainable travel.

Peter Murrell admitted embezzling more than £400,000 from the Scottish National Party, including purchasing a £425 gold pendant for Nicola Sturgeon. Former Shetland Jewellery owner Kenneth Rae recalled Murrell saying he was “the man with the money” when buying the item in 2019. Police later examined the purchase during their investigation. Sturgeon said she had no knowledge that personal items were bought with party funds and expressed shock at Murrell’s actions.

Peter Murrell admitted using embezzled Scottish National Party funds to buy personal items, including a £425 pendant for Nicola Sturgeon. A jeweller recalled Murrell identifying himself as the one “with the money” during the 2019 purchase. Sturgeon denied any knowledge of the misuse of party funds, stating she had separate finances and no access to Murrell’s records. Police later investigated the purchase as part of a wider inquiry into Murrell’s £400,000 embezzlement, which he admitted at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Clinical trial results show that a macrophage-based cell therapy developed at the University of Edinburgh significantly reduces the risk of death or need for liver transplantation in patients with advanced liver disease. The treatment uses modified immune cells to break down scar tissue and promote liver regeneration, with long-term follow-up indicating safety and sustained benefit. The British Liver Trust welcomes the findings, while further testing of an updated version, RTX001, is under way through the Emerald trial, supported by UK research institutions and funding bodies.

Fire crews continue to manage a large, deep‑seated fire at a waste facility near Ladybank in Fife more than a week after it began, with operations expected to continue. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reports the blaze is under control but ongoing smoke may affect surrounding areas, prompting safety advice for residents to limit outdoor exposure and keep windows closed. Fife Council has closed the waste facility and recycling centre during the response but confirms bin collections remain unaffected. No injuries have been reported.

Nearly 800 historic tartan samples from J&D Paton, including royal, military and rare clan designs, have been donated to National Museums Scotland. The archive, spanning from the 1820s to the 1960s, may reshape understanding of tartan production and its global development. The collection will be catalogued and prepared for research access, with the museum inviting personal accounts from descendants of former company employees.

Nearly 800 historic tartan samples produced by 19th‑ and 20th‑century manufacturer J&D Paton have been donated to National Museums Scotland, offering new insight into the evolution of tartan production and fashion. The archive includes textiles made for Queen Victoria, military tartans and previously unrecorded clan designs, with experts suggesting it could reshape understanding of the industry beyond the well‑documented Wilsons of Bannockburn. The collection will be catalogued and made available for research in Edinburgh, with the museum inviting descendants of former Paton employees to contribute related materials or memories.

A 56-year-old man received a seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence after police found multiple foreign firearms, ammunition, and 1.7 kilograms of cannabis in a shipping container he rented in Dumbarton and at his home. He admitted the offences at the High Court in Glasgow, and prosecutors highlighted the importance of removing dangerous weapons from circulation.

A man from Scotland received a seven‑and‑a‑half‑year prison sentence after police found multiple loaded firearms in a rented shipping container and more than a kilogram of cannabis at his home. Forensic analysis confirmed the guns were functional, and his DNA was found on several of them. Prosecutors said the recovery prevented potential harm and reaffirmed their commitment to tackling serious weapons offences.

Scientists in the Ligo–Virgo–Kagra collaboration developed an astrophysical calibration technique that uses gravitational-wave signals to correct detector distortions, similar to pitch correction in music software. The method improves the reliability of measurements even when one detector underperforms, demonstrated using two of the loudest detected black hole merger signals. Researchers say the advance strengthens the network’s ability to deliver precise gravitational-wave results and supports future observing runs.

A Linne’s two-toed sloth was born at Edinburgh Zoo on May 11, the first sloth birth recorded in Scotland. The newborn was named Atty in honour of David Attenborough, referencing a past interview in which he expressed interest in being a sloth for a day. The young sloth will remain with its mother, Feira, for six months, and visitors can view the pair in the zoo’s sloth house on designated afternoons.

Journalists and technical staff at STV staged a strike over a pay freeze, disrupting coverage on the day of the Scottish Parliament election count. Unions argue the freeze represents a real-terms pay cut amid rising costs, leaving workers overworked and struggling financially. STV maintained that the temporary freeze is necessary to stabilise the business and expressed disappointment over the timing of the action. Picket lines formed in Glasgow and Aberdeen, with union leaders signalling the possibility of further industrial action. The walkout follows STV’s plans to cut jobs, restructure its news programming, and seek Ofcom approval to reduce public service broadcasting obligations.

Sixteen visitors to Craigies Farm near Edinburgh contracted cryptosporidium, prompting an investigation by NHS Lothian and the East Region Health Protection Service. The parasite, commonly carried by farm animals, causes gastrointestinal symptoms and is most prevalent among young children. Health officials emphasise handwashing as a key prevention measure.

Sixteen cryptosporidium infections have been linked to Craigies Farm near Edinburgh, prompting an investigation by NHS Lothian and the East Region Health Protection Service. Health officials report symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, warning visitors to practice strict hand hygiene after animal contact. The UK Health Security Agency notes children and those exposed to livestock or contaminated water are most at risk. Individuals with severe symptoms are advised to seek medical care.

Dujon Sterling was fined £2,250 and banned from driving for a year after admitting to drink-driving and careless driving following a crash in Glasgow hours after Rangers’ win over Celtic. Police found him dazed at the scene, and CCTV showed erratic driving at excessive speeds. The initial dangerous driving charge was reduced, and the court heard he had been celebrating before deciding to drive. His employer also imposed a financial penalty.

Archaeologists uncovered a large Neolithic timber platform beneath a stone crannog in Loch Bhorgastail on the Isle of Lewis, dating back over 5,000 years and predating Stonehenge. Excavations and radiocarbon dating revealed a substantial timber base, later modified during the Bronze and Iron Ages, along with Neolithic pottery indicating advanced early communities. Researchers developed a shallow-water stereophotogrammetry technique to map submerged structures accurately.

Archaeologists identified a large Neolithic timber platform beneath a crannog in Loch Bhorgastail on the Isle of Lewis, revealing that the artificial island dates from 3500 to 3300 BC. Excavations uncovered layered timber, brushwood and stone, along with numerous pottery fragments. Researchers from the University of Southampton and University of Reading used stereophotogrammetry to model the structure above and below water, developing a new shallow-water imaging technique to overcome visibility challenges. Findings show the island underwent multiple construction phases over thousands of years, reflecting complex prehistoric communities and long-term site significance.

Research analysing around 100 million posts from dark‑web cybercrime communities indicates that most cybercriminals lack the skills to effectively use AI tools. AI is proving most useful for experienced actors running harassment bots and obscuring detectable patterns, while chatbot safeguards significantly limit misuse. Experts warn that the greater risk comes from companies adopting poorly secured AI systems and from potential workforce displacement driving individuals toward cybercrime. The findings will be presented at a security economics workshop in Berkeley.

Workers at Glasgow Airport employed by ICTS are being balloted for strike action after rejecting a pay offer that Unite describes as inadequate, raising the risk of travel disruption during the World Cup and Commonwealth Games. Unite leaders argue that ICTS can afford better compensation and warn that the airport cannot function without the 170 workers involved in security and operational duties. Industrial action could begin during the peak summer travel period if the ballot passes, with ICTS yet to comment.

A six-year-old girl died and a seven-year-old was taken to hospital after being struck by a car on Johnston Street in Paisley. Emergency services responded around 5:30pm, and police confirmed an investigation is ongoing. Officers appealed for witnesses and expressed condolences to the family.

An exhibition titled The Edwardians: Age of Elegance at the King’s Gallery in Edinburgh will showcase over 150 Royal Collection items, with many being displayed in Scotland for the first time. Highlights include Queen Alexandra’s 1902 gold coronation gown, King Edward VII’s coronation attire, and works by artists and designers such as Frederic Lord Leighton, Faberge and Tiffany & Co., illustrating the lifestyle and interests of Edward VII and Queen Alexandra from their marriage through the First World War.

Authorities warn of very high to extreme wildfire risk across western, central and eastern Scotland following dry weather, urging residents to avoid outdoor fires. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildfire Forum highlight the threat to property, landscapes and wildlife and ask the public to report large fires immediately.

Wildlife cameraman Doug Allan died at age 74 while trekking in Nepal. Celebrated for his pioneering work on major BBC nature series and frequent collaborations with David Attenborough, Allan was praised by his management for his talent, kindness and lasting legacy. His career began after an early encounter with Attenborough and developed through his work in the Antarctic, eventually earning major awards and an OBE for contributions to broadcasting and environmental awareness.

Wildlife cameraman Doug Allan, known for his work on major BBC nature series and frequent collaborations with David Attenborough, died at age 74 while trekking in Nepal. Celebrated for his award-winning career and dedication to environmental storytelling, he was honored with an OBE in 2024 and leaves a widely respected visual legacy.

Researchers led by the University of Edinburgh identified how clusters of immune cells in the gut trigger excessive collagen production, driving fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. Analysis of intestinal samples revealed strong links between immune cell aggregates, endothelial cell structures and scarring processes, offering new therapeutic targets to prevent fibrosis. UK-wide collaborators confirmed the findings using advanced single‑cell RNA sequencing. Clinicians and patient groups welcomed the results as a promising step toward treatments that address scarring rather than inflammation alone, while a long-term patient described the potential impact as transformative.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh identified immune cell clusters in the gut that trigger excessive collagen production and intestinal fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. Using advanced tissue analysis, including single‑cell RNA sequencing, the study mapped key signalling pathways between immune, endothelial, and collagen‑producing cells. The findings offer a promising foundation for treatments aimed at preventing or slowing fibrosis, a serious complication not addressed by current inflammation‑focused therapies.

Storm Dave moved away from the UK earlier than expected, allowing the Met Office to lift yellow weather warnings on Sunday morning, though travel disruption persisted across the country. Strong winds, fallen trees and disrupted ferry and rail services affected Scotland, northern England and Wales. Several flood warnings remained in place, and electricity network operators prepared for potential power issues as showers and colder conditions followed the storm.

Alexander Dennis plans to close its Falkirk site and convert its Larbert facility to chassis manufacturing, putting 115 jobs at risk while securing about 200 others. The restructuring follows previous government-supported furlough efforts and comes amid falling UK market share for domestic bus producers. Company leaders and unions stress the need for better UK procurement and manufacturing support, while Scottish and UK political figures trade blame over job losses and industry conditions. Government officials cite funding commitments and ongoing discussions aimed at protecting skilled manufacturing jobs in Scotland.

Alexander Dennis plans to close its Falkirk site and convert its Larbert facility for chassis production, placing 115 jobs at risk while securing about 200 others. The company cites market conditions and competition from overseas zero‑emission bus manufacturers as drivers of the restructuring. Scottish Government officials raised concerns and called for reforms to ensure stable domestic demand, while opposition parties criticised the government’s handling of the situation. Trade unions condemned the potential job and skills losses. The announcement follows recent government support and ongoing discussions about further assistance.

Staff at the University of Edinburgh began strike action after the University and College Union accused management of breaching an agreement to avoid compulsory redundancies during the academic year. The dispute centers on planned budget cuts of £140 million, which the union says could eliminate about 1,800 jobs. University leaders deny breaking the agreement and argue the strikes will disrupt students during a critical time. Union representatives call for renewed engagement to resolve the conflict and protect jobs.

A study of more than 700 diabetes patients found that screening with an NT-proBNP blood test and heart ultrasound detected previously unrecognised heart failure in nearly one quarter of participants, compared with 1 percent detected through usual care. The findings, presented at an American College of Cardiology conference, suggest that routine heart failure screening in diabetics could enable earlier treatment and reduce hospitalisation and death.

A trial led by the University of Glasgow found that one in four people with diabetes have undiagnosed heart failure detectable through NT-proBNP blood testing and ultrasound. Screening identified significantly more cases than standard care, especially heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Researchers and industry partners say early detection could enable timely treatment, reduce hospitalisations and improve outcomes, with findings presented at the American College of Cardiology conference.

A cloned sheep named Morag, an important precursor to Dolly the sheep, has been placed on permanent display at the National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride as part of a new exhibition on science in agriculture. Morag and her twin Megan were the first mammals cloned from differentiated cells, enabling the later creation of Dolly. The exhibition highlights advances in farming technology, including robotics and artificial intelligence, and explores themes of large‑scale agriculture, small‑scale food production and animal welfare. Morag’s move follows years in storage after an earlier display in Edinburgh, while Dolly remains on exhibit at the National Museum of Scotland.

Morag, one of the first mammals cloned from differentiated cells alongside her twin Megan in 1995, has been placed on permanent display at the National Museum of Rural Life in Scotland. Her pioneering role provided the scientific foundation for the later creation of Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell. The new exhibit examines the influence of scientific advances on agriculture, including emerging technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence.

Morag, one of the first mammals cloned from differentiated cells in 1995 and a key scientific predecessor to Dolly the sheep, has been placed on permanent display at the National Museum of Rural Life in South Lanarkshire. The exhibition highlights her role in enabling later breakthroughs, including Dolly’s birth, and forms part of a new museum section on agricultural science and future technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence. The display also addresses themes of large‑scale farming, small‑scale food production and animal welfare, while institutions including National Museums Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland manage different aspects of the museum and surrounding farm.

Glasgow Central station will fully reopen after a fire-damaged neighbouring building forced partial closure and service disruption for more than two weeks. Demolition progress has reduced the exclusion zone, allowing all rail services to resume, though some entrances will remain closed with alternative access provided.

Authorities issued a very high wildfire risk alert for northern and northeastern Scotland, urging the public to avoid outdoor fires as dry vegetation increases vulnerability. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service leadership warned that even small sparks can trigger destructive wildfires, most of which are human caused and preventable. Last year’s record wildfire activity highlighted increasing climate-related risks, prompting the Scottish Government to publish a strategic action plan and the fire service to launch its annual prevention campaign.

Emergency services attended a 15‑vehicle collision on the M73 in Lanarkshire late Sunday, deploying fire appliances and a heavy rescue unit as the northbound road was closed between Gartcosh and junction 3. The motorway reopened before 4 a.m. Monday, with no information yet released on potential injuries.

Andy and Jamie Murray survived the 1996 Dunblane Primary School massacre, having been pupils at the time and connected to perpetrator Thomas Hamilton through a children’s club he ran. Andy has said tennis became an escape that helped him cope with the trauma. Their sporting success has contributed to reshaping Dunblane’s identity, and Andy now serves as patron of the Dunblane Centre, a community hub founded after the tragedy.

Approaching the 30th anniversary of the Dunblane massacre, Sir Andy Murray’s and Jamie Murray’s childhood connection to the tragedy resurfaced, recalling their presence at the primary school during the shooting and their prior acquaintance with the gunman. Sir Andy described how the trauma, alongside family upheaval, shaped his relationship with tennis as an emotional escape. The brothers’ athletic success has since helped redefine Dunblane’s image. Sir Andy, now a patron of the Dunblane Centre, highlighted the organisation’s importance to the local community and his commitment to supporting its work.

Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice were issued for parts of Scotland, with up to 10cm expected in higher areas, while strong wind warnings covered regions including northern England and Northern Ireland. Gusts up to 70mph created risks of travel disruption and power loss, prompting ScotRail to impose speed restrictions and affecting some Caledonian MacBrayne ferry routes.

Partial train services resumed at Glasgow Central after a major fire left a nearby Victorian building structurally unstable, keeping the high-level station closed. The blaze began in a Union Street vape shop and destroyed most of the structure except its façade. The low-level station reopened after inspections, while First Minister John Swinney committed government support and created an oversight board for recovery efforts.

Scotland approved regulations allowing water cremation, or hydrolysis, as an environmentally friendly alternative to burial and traditional cremation. The process will be available from 2 March, with first procedures expected in the summer. Public Health Minister Jenni Minto highlighted strong public support, with a government consultation showing 84 percent approval. The method is already used in countries including Canada, Ireland and the United States.

A plaque marking Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s 2018 visit to Inverness Town House was removed and stored by Highland Council after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to allegations of sharing sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein. Other Scottish councils are reviewing commemorations linked to his past visits. Andrew previously lost his titles, including Earl of Inverness. The UK government plans to release files on his appointment as trade envoy after MPs unanimously criticised his conduct and suggested Epstein’s influence in the decision.