Nicola Croal

The Met Office is asking the public to vote on whether Shaun or Timmy, characters from Aardman’s Shaun the Sheep, should be included on the 2026/27 storm-naming list. Voting runs on the Met Office’s social-media channels from 19 to 21 August, with the winning name to be announced on 1 September, although it may never be assigned to an actual storm. The initiative is intended to make severe-weather warnings more engaging and encourage people to take safety advice seriously.

Scotland's only hot air balloon festival will return to Strathaven, South Lanarkshire, from August 28 to 30, offering free admission, balloon launches, a professional skydiving display, a fun fair and stalls. Saturday's programme will include an Evening Glow, in which tethered balloons illuminate the night sky. The family-focused, alcohol-free event began in 1999 and has grown in popularity, with last year's festival recording more than 106 flights. All activities are weather dependent.

Daily Record writer Nicola Croal recounts taking part in the televised version of Ken Bruce's Popmaster music quiz, which moved from BBC Radio 2 to Greatest Hits Radio in 2023 and later expanded to More4. She describes the Links and Mix-Tape rounds, her experience filming in Glasgow, and the challenging questions. Croal scored six points, finishing behind the celebrity contestants but beating Deacon Blue drummer Dougie Vipond's score of three, and provides the quiz questions and answers for readers to try.

Hayden Panettiere discussed the difficult decision to transfer custody of her daughter Kaya to her former fiancé Wladimir Klitschko while she sought treatment for alcohol dependency and depression. She described severe complications during Kaya's birth, subsequent postnatal depression and the emotional pain of being separated from her daughter, while emphasizing their continuing close relationship. The report also covers Panettiere's memoir and the announcement of her death at 36; no cause of death had been disclosed.

A look back at five Glasgow pubs that were popular in the 1980s but have since closed or disappeared: The Jedi Bar, Old College Bar, The Iron Horse, The Burns Howff and the original Admiral Bar. The venues are remembered for their distinctive themes, historic character, live music, football connections and importance to local nightlife. The article notes that The Iron Horse was demolished for a hotel development that never materialised, Old College Bar was destroyed after a fire, The Burns Howff closed in 1984, and the original Admiral was replaced by a planned café, although the business later reopened nearby as Admiral Woods.

The Gerda, a stationary canal houseboat at Speirs Wharf in Glasgow, is available through Airbnb for stays of at least two nights. Built in 2017, it sleeps four across two bedrooms, includes two bathrooms, an open-plan living area, kitchenette and wood-burning fireplace, and offers waterfront views close to the city centre. The boat is not wheelchair accessible, and guests have praised its peaceful setting, comfort and helpful hosts.

Royal Mail customers are warned to place stamps flat in the top-right corner of the address-facing side of letters and parcels. Incorrectly positioned, obscured or unreadable stamps may prevent sorting machines from recognising postage, potentially resulting in fees of £1.50 to £7 for recipients and delivery delays. Items left unclaimed at a sorting office may be held for 18 days before being returned or destroyed.

The Met Office expects cloud and showers to obscure the August 12 solar eclipse across much of western and central Scotland, including Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Highlands. Southern Scotland, particularly Galloway Forest Park in Dumfries and Galloway, is forecast to offer the clearest views, while Aberdeen is also expected to have relatively clear skies. The eclipse will peak shortly after 7pm, with around 90% coverage in Dumfries and 89% in Aberdeen. The Met Office advises viewers to monitor hourly forecasts and ensure they have an unobstructed view of the western horizon.

Earthen Home, a Hobbit hut-style Airbnb near Ben Rinnes in rural Moray, offers accommodation for four guests, private fairy pools, a Fairy Glen, gardens, wildlife, a fire pit and stargazing facilities. The property provides modern amenities including Wi-Fi, while retaining a secluded, nature-focused setting and welcoming dogs. Located near Aberlour and about 40 minutes from Elgin, it is ranked among Airbnb's top one per cent of homes and has received exceptionally positive guest reviews.

Cantick Head lighthouse cottage on Scotland’s Hoy island is presented as a remote four-person getaway beside a historic, still-active lighthouse. The property offers sea views from a 115-foot cliff, a private hot tub, clifftop sauna, gym, garden, BBQ and firepit, with possible sightings of wild orcas. It is close to a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve, beaches and outdoor activities, while shops, pubs and restaurants are available in nearby Longhope. The cottage requires a minimum three-night stay, and previous guests have praised its cleanliness, atmosphere and connection with nature.

Sworn statements from sex workers Aldana Serrano and Lucila Goitea allege that Liam Payne became increasingly agitated and destructive at Buenos Aires's CasaSur Palermo Hotel on the day he died in October 2024. They said he struggled to pay a $5,000 fee, smashed a Rolex and hotel television, asked for cocaine and behaved erratically before returning to his room. Toxicology testing found alcohol, cocaine and Klonopin in his system when he fell 46 feet from the hotel balcony at 5:07 p.m. The accounts were provided to investigators after the two women left the hotel shortly before his death.

A steward at Calvin Harris's Hampden Park concert in Glasgow became a viral sensation after enthusiastically dancing with fans during We Found Love. Social media users praised his energy and called for him to receive a pay rise. Harris performed to around 50,000 people on August 1, with a second show scheduled for the following night, and closed the concert with Levels as a tribute to his late friend Avicii.

Research using 2025 National Records of Scotland data identifies Harris as Scotland’s most popular summer-inspired baby boy name, given to 211 boys, followed by Lucas with 131 and Kai with 101. Other names in the top 12 include Arran, Dylan, Struan, River, Rio, Aiden, Jasper, Julian, Brooks, Cove and Milan. The rankings emphasize associations with Scottish islands, rivers, coastlines, beaches and warm-weather destinations.

Molly-Mae Hague says her second postpartum experience has been significantly easier than her first, when she believes she experienced postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter Bambi. After welcoming her son Midas with Tommy Fury, she credits setting aside small amounts of time for herself—including self-care and personal grooming—with helping her avoid losing her sense of identity. She encouraged new mothers to seek support and make time for themselves where possible, advice that received praise from fans and other mothers.

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, attended the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, watching a netball semi-final and meeting athletes. The visit took place on the penultimate day of the Games, whose future was secured after Glasgow agreed to host following Victoria’s withdrawal over rising costs. The royals were also scheduled to meet athletes supported by SportsAid and participants in the Team England Futures development programme.

Glasgow City Council has announced extensive temporary road closures, parking and loading restrictions around Hampden Park for Calvin Harris’s concerts on August 1 and 2. The restrictions affect roads around the stadium at different times from July 31 through August 3, with exemptions for emergency services and council-authorised vehicles. Ticket holders, drivers and local residents are advised to plan journeys and allow extra travel time.

Kelvingrove Café on Glasgow’s Argyle Street has operated since 1896 and retains Victorian features despite modern renovations. The café is known for its brunch, dinner and cocktail offerings and has attracted visitors including Rod Stewart. A review of its £22 Sunday roast steak deal found generous portions, good fries and tasty gravy, but overly chewy steak and a Caesar salad missing its dressing. The café’s historic character and lively atmosphere impressed the reviewer, who would return to try other menu items despite being disappointed by the roast.

EastEnders actor Shane Richie has been charged with drink-driving after police were called to a petrol station in Harlow, Essex, shortly before 11:20pm on 29 July. Reports say he had a heated exchange with staff after being challenged for vaping on the forecourt. Essex Police arrested him, and he is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on 9 September.

Luke Combs was spotted playing golf at St Andrews' Old Course after performing two nights at Edinburgh's Murrayfield Stadium. The country singer extended his Scottish visit before heading to London for Wembley shows, following an Edinburgh performance that featured surprise appearances by John McGinn, Sam Heughan and Richard Rankin, who joined him for a beer challenge.

A viral TikTok tip suggests packing a smaller suitcase inside a larger one when flying out, then using the smaller case as carry-on luggage on the return journey after filling the larger suitcase with purchases. The approach may allow travelers to pay for only one checked bag each way, subject to airline baggage rules. The article also highlights packing cubes, vacuum-sealed bags and a clothing-filled neck pillow as other ways to maximize luggage without incurring extra fees.

Viewers have criticized TNT Sports’ paywalled coverage of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, citing poor commentary, technical glitches, awkward camera direction, excessive studio discussion and missed race starts. The BBC lost the UK broadcasting rights after 72 years, though some coverage remains available on BBC Alba and iPlayer. The Games continue through August 2, 2026.

Barack Obama will bring his An Evening with Barack Obama live interview show to Glasgow's OVO Hydro on October 14, 2026, following appearances in Belfast on October 13 and Manchester on October 15. The events will focus on what comes next for America and society, with guest moderators still to be announced. Tickets go on sale on July 31, with 100 Glasgow tickets reserved for charitable organizations. The article also reviews Obama's presidency and subsequent media work with Michelle Obama, including Netflix productions, audiobook recordings and the Renegades podcast with Bruce Springsteen.

Two American podcasters, Brian Conz and Zach Misischia, reacted with surprise to Scotland’s record of innovation in a viral TikTok video. Their list includes penicillin, the telephone, television, the lightbulb, the raincoat, MRI scanning, refrigeration, colour photography, contact lenses, the flushing toilet, the steam engine, fingerprint classification, the ATM, Encyclopædia Britannica, the kaleidoscope and golf. The article identifies the Scottish inventors associated with most of these developments and notes that commenters added further claims, while some used the discussion to express pride in Scotland and support for independence.

Scottish Green politicians Anthony Carroll and Patrick Harvie are urging the BBC to base and film the next era of Doctor Who in Glasgow. They argue that the city has suitable locations, facilities and creative talent, and that the production could provide jobs, training and investment for Scotland’s screen sector after the cancellation of River City. The BBC is preparing to put Doctor Who’s next production phase out to competitive tender, while the show’s economic contribution to Wales is cited as evidence of the potential benefits.

Families facing financial pressure during the six-week school summer holidays are advised to reduce costs by using kids-eat-free offers, booking activities early, choosing free outdoor and library activities, applying eligible-worker discounts and using cheaper travel options. The article highlights restaurant and supermarket promotions, discount platforms, the Family & Friends Railcard and coach travel as ways to make family days out more affordable.

Nicola Croal visits the Silver Sands of Morar in the Scottish Highlands, highlighting its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, peaceful setting and wild-camping opportunities. Camusdarach beach is noted as a filming location for the 1983 film Local Hero, while the nearby beaches of Morar and Traigh offer different levels of seclusion and facilities. Visitors are advised to follow local camping rules, avoid fires and BBQs, respect the environment, and leave no trace.

The Garple Loch Hut, a two-person cabin on a family-run farm in Dumfries and Galloway, is presented as a highly praised Scottish getaway costing about £80 per person per night. The accommodation features a private loch for swimming and kayaking, Highland cattle, an outdoor hot-water bath, firepit, log burner and kitchen facilities. Guests have given hundreds of five-star reviews, highlighting the scenery, wildlife, activities and peaceful atmosphere; the hut is available for winter bookings later in the year.

An anonymous Glaswegian street artist known as A Sign of Humour has created six parody road signs along Glasgow’s Clyde Street to mark the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The designs humorously depict events including cycling, gymnastics, boxing, swimming, athletics and para athletics, incorporating traffic cones and Buckfast bottles into distinctly Glaswegian scenes. Limited-edition mounted prints and tote bags featuring the designs are available for purchase.

KT Tunstall prepares to perform at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games opening ceremony as she continues her career following significant personal and health challenges. The singer has built a successful international career with multiple acclaimed albums but experienced severe hearing loss resulting in near-total deafness in her left ear, along with vertigo. Her personal life includes two past marriages and her current relationship with partner Chris Light. Adopted as an infant, she later discovered her biological mother and learned through the programme Long Lost Family that her biological father had died and that she has two sisters living in Fife.

Ellie Chadwick and Finley Maddock reunited in London to film Aftersun following their exits from Love Island, drawing strong support from fans who called them the season’s “real winners.” Ellie walked out of the villa after Finley was dumped, later saying she had already decided to follow her instincts. The pair appeared united despite awkward moments involving Elicia Bailey, whose father had posted an aggressive rant about them before deleting it. Ellie and Finley dismissed the comments calmly, earning praise from viewers for their composure.

Five Guys’ lettuce wrap burger, introduced as a low‑carb option, gains popularity during Scotland’s hot weather. A reviewer finds it tastier and more refreshing than expected, appreciating its lower calories and high protein content. Customisation options allow additions like cheese and sauces, though these can make it messy. Despite preferring a traditional bun, the reviewer highlights feeling lighter and more satisfied afterward and recommends the wrap for those seeking healthier fast‑food choices.

Scottish Love Island contestant Ellie Chadwick explained her decision to leave the villa with Finley Maddock and revealed that her much-discussed wicker handbag contained only makeup, perfume and deodorant. She expressed confidence in her connection with Finley but criticised his communication during a love triangle involving Elicia Bailey. Despite mixed emotions, she said she found what she was looking for after exiting the show.

Pete Wicks confirmed his relationship with Olivia Attwood by sharing photos from their trip to Ibiza, drawing congratulatory comments from friends including Sam Thompson and Vicky Pattison. The couple, long-rumored to be involved, grew close after Olivia’s split from Bradley Dack, whose marriage to her was revealed to have never been legally registered amid infidelity allegations. Their relationship, first seen publicly at the Brit Awards, has been widely regarded by fans as an open secret.

Analysis of DVSA data shows more than a quarter of vehicles failed their MOT in early 2026, with tyre-related dangerous defects making up the majority of serious issues. Research from Fast Loan UK highlights a simple check using a 20p coin to determine whether tyre tread is approaching the legal minimum. The advice stresses carrying out basic pre‑test checks, as lighting, suspension and brake failures also contribute significantly to MOT failures.

A quick summer recipe highlights a refreshing watermelon and feta salad that combines sweetness and saltiness with cucumber, red onion, mint, lime and olive oil. Popular on TikTok, the dish is praised for being easy to make, nutritious and suited for hot weather or barbecues. Instructions outline simple preparation steps and flexible ingredient options.

Glass clifftop cabins near Arbikie Distillery in Angus are offered at a discounted two‑night rate on Itison, featuring one‑way glass, private saunas and views of Lunan Bay with potential Northern Lights sightings. The cabins have received awards from The Times and Conde Nast and are praised for comfort and scenic surroundings. Guests can enjoy distillery experiences led by master distiller Kirsty Black and explore nearby Montrose attractions. Strong five‑star reviews highlight the cabins’ unique design and relaxing environment, with demand for bookings described as high.

Lorraine Kelly shared a humorous Scottish-accent sketch on Instagram ahead of England’s World Cup semi-final, playfully contrasting her support for Scotland with her husband Steve’s support for England. The clip features a fictional Mary Queen of Scots struggling to be understood by an English doctor, which Kelly described as hilarious. The story highlights family allegiances, Kelly’s Scottish roots, and her ongoing connection to Scotland despite living in Buckinghamshire.

ESPC data shows strong buyer engagement across Scotland in June 2026, with over 85,000 views on the ten most popular properties, primarily spacious family homes and character cottages. Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian dominated interest, and most listings quickly moved under offer, reflecting a competitive mid‑market and growing demand for suburban and semi‑rural homes.

Sam Neill’s sudden death at age 78 prompted heartfelt tributes from his Jurassic Park co-stars and director. Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum shared emotional messages and photos honoring their longtime friend, while Steven Spielberg praised Neill’s talent, collaboration, and warmth in a detailed statement. Neill’s family confirmed his passing in Sydney and expressed gratitude for the care he received, requesting privacy as they grieve.

Scotland continues to record the highest petrol prices in the UK as wholesale fuel costs rise again, with petrol averaging 153.3p per litre and diesel 166.3p. Other UK regions have seen slight declines, while Northern Ireland remains the cheapest. Renewed US‑Iran conflict and Russia’s diesel export ban are pushing oil prices higher, driving recent volatility. Government data shows significant growth in electricity consumption by electric vehicles, largely due to home charging. The AA warns of further fuel price increases despite a recent modest drop, noting pump prices remain well above pre‑pandemic levels and encouraging a shift toward electric vehicles.

Sam Neill died suddenly at age 78 in Sydney, with his family confirming he was cancer‑free at the time of his passing. Known globally for his portrayal of Dr Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise, he had previously spoken about death following his recovery from a rare blood cancer, describing it as irritating because he still had much to accomplish. His family expressed gratitude to St Vincent's Private Hospital and requested privacy. Neill’s five‑decade career included celebrated roles across film and television, and he leaves behind four children.

Warnings about the new Wegovy weight‑loss pill highlight that rapid weight loss and poor nutrient intake are the main drivers of hair shedding rather than the drug itself. Hair specialist Dr Gizem Seymenoglu recommends blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies, maintaining a gentle haircare routine, prioritising adequate protein at each meal and staying physically active to support scalp health. Hair shedding linked to treatment is usually temporary and can be mitigated with these lifestyle adjustments.

Morrisons is offering free Kellogg’s breakfasts in all its cafés throughout the UK summer holidays to help families facing financial strain, providing cereal, milk and fruit for both children and adults. The initiative, run in partnership with Kellogg’s, coincides with research showing rising pressure on family budgets during the school break. Morrisons will also maintain its Kids Eat Free programme and provide children’s activities in cafés. Representatives from both companies emphasise the importance of supporting families when school breakfast programmes pause for the summer.

Discounted cruises on the historic Sir Walter Scott steamship at Loch Katrine are available through Itison throughout the summer, offering scenic two-hour trips with strong customer reviews and recent awards. Tickets start at £21 for adults and £47 for families, valid until late October. Additional deals include reduced-price sailings on the PS Waverley steamer departing from several Scottish locations in July and August, providing access to multiple West Coast destinations.

Lewis Capaldi’s upcoming BST Hyde Park headline show will stream globally on YouTube for free, marking one of the first full Hyde Park concerts broadcast live worldwide. The livestream begins July 11 at 8:45 p.m. BST and includes a specially produced short film and a large-scale 26‑camera setup. Organisers describe the broadcast as a landmark moment for the festival. The performances follow Capaldi’s return to live music in 2025 and his appearances at major summer festivals.

Lulu will deliver the keynote speech at the inaugural Scottish Recovery Awards in Glasgow, an event organised by Abbeycare to recognise contributions to Scotland’s drug and alcohol recovery efforts. The singer, who has spoken openly about her own past alcoholism and long-term sobriety, emphasises the importance of courage, support, and recognising recovery achievements. The awards will feature eight categories, with nominations open until mid-August, and organisers encouraging community and business involvement through sponsorships and table purchases.

The once‑daily Wegovy weight‑loss pill has become available for private purchase in the UK following approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Containing the same active ingredient as Wegovy injections, the pill must be taken on an empty stomach under strict timing guidelines and is recommended alongside healthy lifestyle changes. Eligibility mirrors that of the injection, requiring obesity or overweight status with related health conditions. The treatment is not yet offered on the NHS, pending evaluation by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Reported side effects include gastrointestinal issues, headaches and, rarely, more serious complications. Pricing varies by pharmacy and dosage, with introductory offers starting at £99 for a month’s supply of the lowest dose.

New research by tyre specialist Blackcircles ranks Scotland’s top road trip destinations, placing the Scottish Highlands first due to its abundance of attractions, walking trails and fuel stations. The North Coast 500 is highlighted as the premier route through the region. Aberdeenshire’s North East 250 takes second place, noted for its dramatic landscapes, hiking options and road safety. Perth and Kinross ranks third with its Heart 200 route. Fife, Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Moray, Stirling and North Ayrshire round out the top ten.

A writer tests an online tip for cooking steak in an air fryer, preparing an Aldi rib eye and cooking it for six minutes at 200C without preheating. The method delivers a juicy medium‑rare result with minimal effort and easier cleanup compared to pan frying, leading to a positive recommendation to try air‑fried steak.

A reviewer describes an overnight stay at the award‑winning Riverbed Luxury Lodges in Ballachulish, highlighting the compact cabin design, private hot tub, scenic woodland setting and thoughtful touches such as fluffy robes and homemade cookies. The stay included a no‑contact check‑in process and a hand‑delivered continental breakfast. Despite noting an early checkout time and higher prices, the reviewer found the experience excellent value, praising the tranquil location and overall quality of the accommodation.

A weekly farmers' market in Glasgow’s West End features rotating local traders, street food, artisan products, and live music. Despite poor weather, the market provides covered seating and maintains a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy offerings from food trucks such as Lupo, The Garden Shed, and Uplands Roast, alongside numerous vendors selling baked goods, crafts, and gifts. Over 30 traders are scheduled to appear at the upcoming weekend market.

Elton John has agreed to a multimillion‑pound hologram residency at the new Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, with performances recorded alongside Dua Lipa and Kiki Dee. The show, launching next summer and using advanced technology similar to ABBA Voyage, will allow his concerts to continue long after his death. The move follows a reversal of his earlier opposition to hologram performances, reflecting the growing acceptance and commercial success of digital concerts.

A Scotland football fan who went viral during the World Cup for his enthusiasm for Mexican cuisine has been named HelloFresh’s first Official Mexican Menu Ambassador. Blair McNally’s newfound love of tacos and spices inspired the company to create a limited‑edition dish, Blair’s Tartan Army Mexican Style Spiced Soup, available from July 4 to July 10. HelloFresh announced the collaboration with a video celebrating his World Cup journey, noting how his excitement for Mexican flavours resonated with viewers. The recipe blends Scottish comfort elements with Mexican‑inspired ingredients, reflecting the connection between football, food and shared experiences.

Experts warn that common household devices such as older TVs, chargers, boilers, and appliances used during peak afternoon temperatures can add heat to homes and increase energy consumption during Scotland’s humid weather. Recommendations include avoiding use of heat‑producing appliances in the afternoon, unplugging standby devices, maintaining older fridges and freezers, and adjusting boiler settings to reduce indoor warmth and energy waste.

Cast members from The Real Housewives of Atlanta travel to Scotland for Phaedra Parks’ birthday, revisiting locations tied to The Traitors and bringing ongoing personal conflicts with them. The episode highlights their arrival at Gilmerton House, interactions with local social media figure Torgi Squire, and tensions among cast members including unresolved disputes involving Porsha Williams, Shamea Morton and Angela Oakley. A preview of the next episode hints at further drama during their Scotland stay, including emotional news and revelations of family secrets.

Low-cost flights from Edinburgh to the Portuguese island of Madeira are available from Ryanair for £29.99 on select August dates. Madeira is promoted as a scenic destination with beaches, hiking routes, tropical landscapes and attractions such as the Museu CR7. Ideal travel timing aligns with the Madeira Wine Festival running from late August to mid-September.

Scotland exited the World Cup after losses to Morocco and Brazil, prompting manager Steve Clarke’s resignation. Scott McTominay, who struggled to make an impact during the tournament despite helping Scotland qualify, remained in the United States to holiday in Florida with his girlfriend Cam Reading and family. Images from their stay at the Breakers Palm Beach resort were shared on social media as the squad returned home, while team captain Andy Robertson paid tribute to Clarke.