Rose Moncur

Glasgow-based travel company McKinlay Kidd is launching its first multi-country rail holiday, a 15-day guided itinerary linking Scotland and Ireland for departure in 2027. The tour includes rail journeys on the West Highland Line and Jacobite steam train, visits to Skye, Inverness and destinations along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, plus accommodation, meals, excursions, transfers and luggage services. The launch expands the company’s small-group and tailor-made holiday offering across two key markets.

Glasgow City Council is recruiting Scotland’s first Night-Time Economy Manager to help transform and grow the city’s after-dark economy. The role will connect the council with hospitality and entertainment businesses, implement recommendations from the newly established Night-Time Economy Commission, and address public safety, transport connectivity and customer experience. Industry representative Mike Grieve and councillor Angus Millar said dedicated leadership could help Glasgow build on its venues, talent and international nightlife reputation.

Researchers at the University of Aberdeen developed a 3D human brain tissue model, called a cerebroid, to study how inflammatory signals associated with maternal immune activation affect early fetal brain development. The signal acted directly on neural stem cells, altering the production, maturation and structure of neurons in the cerebral cortex. Blocking an underlying biological process reversed many of the observed changes, suggesting the model could help investigate how pregnancy-related inflammation and other environmental factors influence neurodevelopment.

Scullion LAW has become the title sponsor of the Lanark Silver Bell Racenight at Hamilton Park on August 21. The event will feature horse racing, live entertainment and the £103,000 Lanark Silver Bell Heritage Handicap. The race has historic links to Lanark Racecourse, was moved to Hamilton Park in 2008, gained Heritage Handicap status in 2022 and will form part of Hamilton Racecourse’s centenary celebrations.

Scottish EDGE has launched a new £200,000 Accelerator EDGE Award, the largest single prize in the competition’s history, as part of its 28th round. The award is funded through a £1 million, three-year investment from Royal Bank of Scotland, while the latest round has a total prize fund of £1.5 million, including awards supported by Scottish Enterprise. Early-stage businesses and social enterprises from all sectors can apply by submitting an online form and a three-minute pitch video, with applications closing on September 2 and awards presented on November 26. The programme aims to help ambitious Scottish startups scale and contribute to economic growth.

Muirhall, a 27-acre equestrian estate in South Lanarkshire, is being offered for sale at offers over £1,585,000 through Davidson & Robertson. The property includes a traditional farmhouse, five converted holiday cottages, 19 loose boxes, tack and feed rooms, indoor and floodlit outdoor arenas, paddocks, grazing land and woodland. Its facilities support either private or professional equestrian use, while the cottages offer potential for a premium holiday-letting business. Davidson & Robertson describes the estate as a rare combination of residential accommodation, equestrian infrastructure and immediate commercial potential, with access to Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Aberdeen’s rebuilt Hazlehead Reuse Shop, operated by SUEZ UK for Aberdeen City Council, has sold more than 104,000 pre-owned items and helped divert about 4,000 items from waste each month. Alongside a second shop at the Bridge of Don, the facilities have increased material diversion by 36% year over year, expanded into furniture handling and repairs, and created six full-time jobs. Revenue supports the Aberdeen Reuse Community Fund, while Zero Waste Scotland funding has improved reuse and repair capacity and local partnerships are being developed to support skills and community projects.

Edinburgh-based Arden Property Management is marking 20 years in business after letting more than 10,500 properties across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Founded in 2006, the company recently acquired Smart Property’s lettings division, received the ESTAS Best in Postcode Award and expanded its presence in Scotland’s lettings market. Its anniversary programme, “20 Acts of Goodness,” includes fundraising, volunteering and community initiatives, including support for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, Edinburgh Four Square, Goodies, Red Nose Day and Cash for Kids, as well as planned beach clean-ups in Portobello.

Dumfries-based VASO Global has created six new jobs at its 60,000-square-foot Irongray Park factory as it prepares to manufacture structural construction panels made from recycled glass. The company has created 15 jobs so far and plans to employ up to 70 people within five years, offering specialist training and careers in the green economy. Manufacturing manager Jim Patterson and new process operator Broghan Johnston highlighted the product’s potential and the benefits of expanding employment opportunities for local people.

Vera Artisan Bakery & Kitchen in Stirling has won Best Bakery in Scotland at the Food Awards Scotland 2026, marking its fourth national victory after previous wins in 2022, 2023 and 2025. Owner Texy Vera-Lawson credited the bakery’s team and customers, while highlighting its local job creation, support for nearby businesses and suppliers, and role in attracting visitors to Stirling.

The Green Welly Stop roadside business in Tyndrum has been put on the market after 61 years of family ownership. Founded by Les and Betty Gosden in 1965, it has expanded from a fuel and refreshment stop into a destination with cafés, retail outlets, whisky sales, staff accommodation and traveller facilities. Managing partners Edward and Fiona Robertson said the sale was difficult but represented the start of a new chapter, while Christie & Co is marketing the profitable, diversified business on a price-on-application basis. The stop will continue operating while a buyer is sought.

Historic Environment Scotland has launched a pilot Scotland's Places of Worship Fund worth up to £1 million to help listed places of worship across Scotland cover VAT costs for eligible repairs and conservation work. Running until March 2027, the first-come, first-served scheme follows the closure of the UK-wide Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme and is intended to encourage early maintenance, preserve traditional skills and strengthen historic buildings. Eligibility and application guidance will be developed with faith groups and stakeholders before the planned October 2026 launch.

A Scottish neonatal programme developed by the Centre for Sustainable Delivery, hosted at NHS Golden Jubilee, has been shortlisted for the 2026 Health Service Journal Awards. Its rapid cheek-swab test identifies newborns carrying a genetic variant associated with permanent hearing loss from aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin, allowing clinicians to select an alternative treatment without delaying urgent care. More than 1,300 babies have been tested, and one result has already prompted a treatment change likely to have prevented lifelong deafness. The programme is being rolled out across all 11 NHS Scotland health boards with neonatal units and is projected to generate substantial NHS savings and wider societal benefits.

More than 36,000 people attended the Advance Construction Experience at Glasgow’s Riverside Museum. The family event used interactive activities, machinery demonstrations, sporting challenges and celebrity appearances to introduce young people to careers in construction, engineering and infrastructure. Organizers said the turnout exceeded expectations and highlighted the industry’s need to attract and develop the next generation of skilled workers.

Threesixty Architecture has appointed Gina Colley, Neal Hemingway and Paul Hegarty to its board as the Scottish practice expands across the UK. The three directors bring expertise in regeneration, commercial and residential development, infrastructure, public-sector work and decarbonisation. Their roles will include shaping the firm's strategy, mentoring staff and supporting its long-term growth.

Rosslyn Chapel has launched Rosabelle, a three-year-aged Scottish rum produced by J Gow Rum on Lamb Holm in Orkney. The product commemorates the chapel's nearly 600-year historical connection with Orkney through its founder, Sir William St Clair, who was recognised as Prince of Orkney in 1434. Named after the tragic heroine of Sir Walter Scott's The Lay of the Last Minstrel, the rum is sold through the Rosslyn Chapel Trust shop, with proceeds supporting the charity's conservation work and other Orkney businesses.

Arnold Clark has acquired W Livingstone Ltd’s SEAT/CUPRA dealership at 34 New Edinburgh Road in Uddingston, renaming it Arnold Clark Uddingston SEAT/CUPRA. The site will continue offering vehicle sales, aftersales support, bodyshop services and a petrol station, with existing staff retained where possible. The acquisition expands Arnold Clark’s network and strengthens its presence in west Scotland.

South of Scotland Enterprise has appointed Julia Mulloy, Stuart McCallum and Andrew Smith to its board for four-year terms. Selected by Scottish Ministers, the new members bring expertise in housing and regeneration, banking and professional services, and renewable energy, innovation finance and investment. Chair Russel Griggs said their combined experience would strengthen SOSE’s support for sustainable economic growth, businesses and communities across the South of Scotland.

The Cold Beer Company pub on Murray Place in Stirling will close temporarily from August 17 for a six-figure refurbishment and is expected to reopen in September. The Belhaven venue will receive new interior and exterior décor, furniture, booth seating, a darts area, redesigned pool facilities, and upgraded screens and sound systems for live sports. The pub will continue serving food and drinks, offer bookings through the Greene King app, and recruit for full-time and part-time positions. The makeover forms part of Belhaven’s broader investment in its Scottish pub estate.

Thornhill cultural venue Thomas Tosh has been put on the market for £250,000 as owners Paul O’Keeffe and David Cripps prepare to retire after 18 years. The former parish hall operates as a café, bookshop, gallery, retail space and events venue, and will continue trading while a buyer is sought. The owners say they are proud of its role in community life and hope a new owner will build on its reputation.

Princes Street could fully reopen by the end of August if weather conditions remain favourable and safety work is completed. Edinburgh City Council says more than 40% of the required structural supports have been installed following a fire five weeks earlier, with the building’s eastern gable reduced and reinforced, steel beams added, and salvageable masonry stored for possible reuse. Council leader Jane Meagher acknowledged the disruption to businesses and residents, particularly around the northern tram route, and announced plans to promote businesses in Leith, the Shore and Newhaven while thanking Lothian Buses for maintaining services.

Plans to restore and expand Robert Burns’s former home at Ellisland into a year-round visitor attraction could generate up to £1.5 million annually for the Dumfries and Galloway economy and support 65 jobs. The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust aims to preserve the site’s listed buildings, expand visitor access and build on educational initiatives for young people. Scotland’s Economy, Tourism and Transport Cabinet Secretary Stephen Flynn visited the site and expressed support for its heritage, tourism and workforce-development potential.

A former Coca-Cola bottling plant at 1 Burley Place in East Kilbride’s College Milton South industrial estate has been converted into Nurtured by Nature, a purpose-built day nursery that opened on August 3, 2026. Former Crossbasket Nursery managers Leann Lavery and Cara Selkirk operate the new childcare business, which includes playrooms, a commercial kitchen, outdoor play areas and on-site parking. Christie & Co marketed the property, Christie Finance supported the funding, and the lease value was undisclosed.

A replica of the Harry Potter Platform 9¾ luggage trolley will be available at Vue Cinema Edinburgh on August 30 and 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fans can take free commemorative photos on a first-come, first-served basis as part of celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The film will also return to cinemas with 12 minutes of previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage, while the wider franchise continues through films, stage productions, attractions and a forthcoming HBO television series.

Forestry and Land Scotland and Butterfly Conservation are restoring calcareous grassland at Thornielee in Scotland’s Tweed Valley to support the vulnerable Northern Brown Argus butterfly. The project will control encroaching bracken and gorse, use conservation grazing where appropriate, and protect the common rock-rose and yellow meadow ant habitats essential to the butterfly’s lifecycle. Progress will be tracked through vegetation surveys, butterfly transects, egg counts and photography.

Bloom Box, the automated flower-vending service founded by Edinburgh entrepreneur Kayleigh McAllister as an extension of Penelope Fleur, has launched a temperature-controlled 24/7 machine at Edinburgh Airport. The service offers professionally arranged bouquets for travellers, visitors and airport staff, joining locations at St James Quarter, The Gyle and Glasgow’s Silverburn. McAllister says the machines are intended to complement traditional florists, while the business plans further expansion across Scotland and beyond. Edinburgh Airport’s retail head Linsey Jordan welcomed the service as a way to make reunions and celebrations more memorable.

Vue Edinburgh will screen all eight Harry Potter films weekly from August 28 through October 16 to mark 25 years since the franchise’s first film premiered. The season begins with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and concludes with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2. Vue Edinburgh general manager Ian Chester said the screenings would welcome fans back to the big screen and create memorable experiences.

Glasgow will host the first UK heat of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s Caskmaster 2026 blind whisky tasting championship on August 26. Contestants will identify eight single-cask whiskies in 30 minutes, with the top five advancing to the grand final in Edinburgh on November 12. The £50 entry includes the tastings and a Society supper, while the winner will receive lifetime SMWS membership and a four-day whisky retreat in Speyside.

An exhibition at Maryhill Burgh Halls explores more than two centuries of history along Glasgow’s Forth & Clyde Canal, from its eighteenth-century construction and engineering landmarks to current regeneration projects. Its centerpiece is Andrew Maclaren Law’s 1879 painting of the Maryhill Locks, which disappeared for 138 years before being recovered at auction. Developed with Scottish Canals, the exhibition also examines the Glasgow Smart Canal and its use of weather forecasting and automated controls to manage water levels, improve climate resilience and support regeneration, ecology and active travel. Every Picture Tells a Story runs from August 13 to October 11.

A year-long exhibition at Deaf Action’s Edinburgh headquarters features work by deaf artists Trudi Collier, Viktoriya Rudenko and Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq. Their pieces explore deaf culture, identity, language, audism and the legacies of figures such as Alexander Graham Bell and Mary Warnock, while honoring linguist Mary Brennan’s contribution to the recognition of British Sign Language. The exhibition is part of the 2026 Edinburgh Deaf Festival, remains open beyond the festival’s August 16 conclusion, and offers free entry during office hours.

Gyle Shopping Centre in Edinburgh will welcome four new retailers—Søstrene Grene, Black Sheep Coffee, Rituals and Nomination—in autumn. The new stores will add homeware, coffee, beauty and jewellery offerings, while existing tenants including Boots, Starbucks and Pandora have renewed their leases. Owner and manager NewRiver and leasing adviser Savills said rising footfall and strong retailer demand reflect continued momentum at the centre.

ScotRail will stage a pop-up comedy club at Glasgow Queen Street on August 15 for passengers travelling to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Comedian Rosco McLelland will perform five-minute sets for groups of up to five people between 12:15pm and 2:30pm, on a first-come, first-served basis. The event also promotes ScotRail's GroupSave discount, which gives groups of three to five passengers a third off eligible anytime rail fares.

North Lanarkshire Council plans to invest £2.5 million in modernising Coatbridge’s Time Capsule leisure centre during 2026/27. Proposed improvements include new health suites, an indoor Clip ’n Climb arena, refreshed soft play and changing areas, a community space overlooking the ice rink, a themed tipping bucket and replacement water flumes. The scheme is intended to support health and wellbeing, improve accessibility and reinforce the centre’s role in the community, while incorporating elements of Coatbridge’s industrial heritage.

The Financial Ombudsman Service will introduce a new registration stage for complaints about banking, insurance and other financial services, allowing it to establish whether cases fall within its remit before beginning full investigations. From October 1, 2026, new powers will allow it to dismiss cases better suited to courts, law enforcement or other dispute-resolution services, as well as cases already being investigated elsewhere or lacking evidence of financial loss or material distress. The reforms, developed with the Financial Conduct Authority, also include thematic reviews, charges for professional representatives, revised award interest rates and digital improvements. Related legislative changes are progressing through Parliament as part of the Financial Services and Markets Bill.

Construction of the £124 million Hazlehead Academy Campus in Aberdeen has reached the steel-framework stage. The new school, being built by Robertson Construction Group in partnership with Aberdeen City Council and hub North Scotland, will serve up to 1,600 pupils from Hazlehead, Countesswells and Kingswells. It is scheduled to open in August 2028, with demolition of the existing school and completion of external sports facilities expected by summer 2029. The campus will include two full-size all-weather pitches and an athletics sprint track, which received a £100,000 sportscotland grant supported by National Lottery funding and will be available to schools, clubs and the wider community.

Edinburgh jewellery brand Recreation Jewels is hosting a month-long programme of events during the Fringe, including a launch party, café takeover, matcha workshops, charm-bar socials, treasure hunts, jewellery bingo, paint-and-sip sessions, vintage pop-ups and an outdoor pilates collaboration. The programme concludes with a Fringe Fair on August 22 featuring independent traders, food, henna, tarot readings, carnival games, a jewellery sample sale and the brand’s matcha stand. Founded by Ranee Karmakharm, the Hanover Street flagship opened in 2024, and the events are intended to support Edinburgh’s creative community and independent businesses.

Fusion Fest will launch at The Briggait in Glasgow on September 10 as part of Glasgow Tech Week. Organized by the Glasgow City Innovation District with the University of Strathclyde, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and The Glasgow School of Art, the festival will feature talks, interactive installations and demonstrations focused on artificial intelligence, gaming, digital design, immersive storytelling and creative entrepreneurship. Organizers and partners say it will strengthen collaboration between Glasgow's creative and technology sectors and support innovation and economic growth.

More than 60 businesses across Glasgow and South Lanarkshire have joined Clyde Gateway’s Transition to Net Zero programme since its launch in early 2024. The initiative offers practical guidance, expert sessions and peer networking to help companies reduce emissions and implement sustainability measures. Clyde Gateway says demand is growing as businesses seek actionable routes to net zero, while participants including BEMCO highlight the value of sharing experiences and building cross-sector connections. The programme supports Clyde Gateway’s broader effort to promote sustainable economic growth in the east end of Glasgow and neighbouring communities.

The Glasgow School of Art recorded Scotland's highest student retention rate for students from the country's most deprived communities, with 97% continuing their studies, according to the Scottish Funding Council's latest Widening Access report. Students from the most deprived areas made up 22.9% of the school's 2024/25 intake, above Scotland's 20% target for 2030, which GSA has met or exceeded since 2019/20. The school also ranked second for graduation outcomes, with 20.9% of its graduates from the most deprived areas compared with a national average of 13.8%. GSA attributed the results to initiatives including portfolio preparation, contextual admissions and college partnerships.

Aberdeen City Council has approved £27.164 million over the next three financial years to repair and improve council-owned buildings, including community and family centres. Planned work includes boiler, roof and window replacements, car-park resurfacing, entrance-door replacement, canopy refurbishment and toilet upgrades at facilities across the city. Councillors Alex McLellan and Ian Yuill said the investment would help keep community centres open, accessible and in good condition.

Zoe Douglas has been appointed director of spa and wellness at Crossbasket Castle's forthcoming Four Angels Spa in High Blantyre. The Edinburgh-born expert has 25 years of international experience in luxury hotels and wellness destinations, including Six Senses and W Hotels. The spa is expected to open later this year with four treatment rooms, thermal facilities, relaxation spaces and treatments developed by Beata Aleksandrowicz. Crossbasket Castle owner Alison Timoney said Douglas's experience and leadership would help create a distinctive Scottish wellness destination.

The Edinburgh-developed Scran app is designed to make home cooking more accessible for people with ADHD, dyslexia and autism. It uses artificial intelligence to reformat recipes from websites, social media, photographs and cookbooks, placing ingredient quantities within individual steps and breaking recipes into manageable actions. The app also offers step tracking, adjustable serving sizes, aisle-sorted shopping lists and dyslexia-friendly fonts. Co-founders Grant Macgregor and Jonny Kirkaldy developed Scran with input from 200 people during a four-month pilot, and plan to continue improving it through user feedback.

St Andrew’s Drive Phases 2 and 3, a Glasgow social housing development in Pollokshields designed by jmarchitects, has been shortlisted for the 2026 RIBA Neave Brown Award for Housing. The scheme provides 120 affordable homes in maisonettes, apartments and terraced houses arranged around shared green space. It is one of four shortlisted UK projects, with the winner to be announced at the RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony on October 15 in London. Jury and RIBA representatives praised the finalists for combining community-focused design, environmental ambitions and responses to challenging urban sites.

Edinburgh-based Inclusive Play (UK) Ltd is marking 20 years since its founding and the development of the world’s first wheelchair-accessible roundabout. The company makes playground equipment for children of all abilities, including spinning bowls, rocking seesaws and sensory products, and has recently brought manufacturing in-house to improve quality, innovation and safety while creating skilled jobs in Scotland. Its membership in the Made in Britain network underscores its commitment to domestic production. Inclusive Play says it now accounts for more than a fifth of UK play-equipment exports and aims to expand inclusive playgrounds internationally.

Admiral’s House in North Queensferry, a B-listed coastal property built in 1829 and remodelled around 1916, is due to be auctioned with a guide price of £300,000. Formerly the residence of the Rosyth Naval Commander, the property occupies nearly four acres with foreshore access and views across the Firth of Forth, but has fallen into disrepair and suffered vandalism. Transport Scotland is selling it through Shepherd Commercial Property Auctions alongside several other nearby properties, with the online auction scheduled for August 20 at 2:30pm.

The University of Edinburgh’s redevelopment of the former Royal Infirmary into the Edinburgh Futures Institute has been shortlisted for the 2026 RIBA Reinvention Award. Designed by Bennetts Associates, the project is one of four UK finalists recognized for creative reuse, heritage preservation and environmental, social and economic sustainability. The winner will be announced at the RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony in London on October 15, 2026.

Hard Rock Café Edinburgh is participating in Hard Rock Rising, an international music competition organized by Hard Rock International and Coca-Cola across 34 countries and 64 venues. Singer-songwriters, bands and DJs can submit two original songs by August 18, with four live rounds held in Edinburgh in September and audiences voting through a mobile app. The Edinburgh winner will advance to the global final, whose champion will receive a recording session at Coke Studio L.A. Live, a Hard Rock Orlando performance, music distribution, travel and entertainment benefits, Marshall equipment, and $10,000.

Researchers at the University of Dundee have secured more than £800,000 from the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation for two MND treatment projects. One project, led by Chris Henstridge and Zsofia Laszlo, will investigate drugs targeting overactive JNK proteins that contribute to motor-neuron destruction. A second, led by Leeanne McGurk, will examine whether cancer drugs that affect PARP proteins can be repurposed for MND. The three-year studies aim to identify treatments that could slow disease progression and potentially benefit people with both genetic and non-genetic forms of the condition.

Fingal, the luxury floating hotel permanently berthed in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith, is launching the latest event in its Captain’s Table dining series. On August 21, ten guests will receive a £135-per-person tasting menu created by award-winning chef Paul Gunning in collaboration with Fingal head chef Pedro Barreira. The menu will focus on seasonal Scottish produce prepared with modern techniques and global influences, and will be served at a communal table in The Bridge, the ship’s converted command room. Fingal has retained two AA Rosettes for four consecutive years and operates as both a hotel and dining venue.

Braehead Shopping Centre will host a free Scottie-themed arts and crafts weekend on August 8 and 9 from 10am to 6pm, supporting Maggie’s as part of the Scottie in the City public art campaign. Children can take part in crafts, while visitors can design a Scottie tote bag for a £3 donation benefiting Maggie’s. Artist Jenni Sheward will lead a creative session on August 9 and discuss her Scottie sculpture.

Edinburgh-based outsourced finance firm Accountability has received three national recognitions: inclusion in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 list, B Corp certification and accreditation as one of the UK’s first flexible workplaces. Founded by Rosie Berridge in 2012, the firm supports more than 130 businesses, has grown to 17 employees and shares profits with staff and charities. It plans to run a free webinar series on Xero, business insights and financial support for growth.

Glasgow's Doors Open Days Festival will offer behind-the-scenes access to more than 150 venues from September 17 to 20. King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, SWG3 and the Britannia Panopticon Music Hall are among the participating locations, with tours, talks and experiences focused on the city's nightlife, entertainment and social heritage. The University of Glasgow's Advanced Research Centre will serve as the main hub, while a new mini-festival hub will open at Edward House. Booking begins on August 5, and the event is hosted by the Glasgow Building Preservation Trust with support from several civic, cultural and academic organizations.

The Social Hub Glasgow generated £9.9 million in social value between September 2024 and August 2025, according to an independent RealWorth report supported by Glasgow City Innovation District. The hotel, student accommodation, coworking and events venue reportedly created 5.5 times more social value per square metre than a traditional Glasgow hotel, with £2.9 million linked to education and job-quality outcomes. The assessment highlighted benefits for wellbeing, employability, entrepreneurship and community participation, including free event space used by more than 60 community organisations. The company operates 21 European locations and is planning an Edinburgh site.

The Scottish Government has awarded £3.5 million to Clyde Gateway to advance regeneration in Glasgow’s east end, particularly the remediation of Chromium VI contamination at Shawfield and development activity in Dalmarnock. The funding will help prepare former industrial land for housing, businesses and infrastructure, support innovation-led growth, and contribute to a planned business cluster in advanced manufacturing, life sciences and clean energy. The investment builds on more than £215 million of Scottish Government funding since 2008.

A wildfire covering an estimated 25 square kilometres in the Cairngorms is causing mounting financial damage to tourism and other businesses. Seventeen firms inside the Abernethy and Glenmore exclusion zone have closed, losing revenue while continuing to incur wages and fixed costs, while businesses across the wider park face cancellations, reduced footfall and additional reassurance work. The Cairngorms Business Partnership is collecting financial evidence and calling for grants, business-support packages or recovery assistance. Despite the disruption, most attractions, accommodation providers, restaurants and cafés remain open, with visitors urged to check travel advice and continue visiting safe areas.

Lush Glasgow City will host Fresh Kitchen Live on August 8 as part of Lush Fest 2026. The free event will feature live demonstrations of fresh skincare production using ingredients such as fruit, vegetables and botanicals, along with product samples, consultations, microbiome workshops, refreshments and music from ShedCat of FemmeDM. Visitors can attend from 11am to 3pm by booking through the Lush app or walking in.

East Benula Estate, a remote 4,636-acre property on the north bank of Loch Mullardoch in Glen Cannich, has been listed for offers over £1.5 million. Accessible only by a 10-minute boat journey, the estate includes mountain, woodland, moorland and river landscapes, around 4.5 miles of loch frontage, trout-fishing rights and an off-grid two-bedroom hunter’s bothy. It operates as a deer forest and has no electricity connection, although a diesel generator could be installed. Galbraith is marketing the property, which lies about nine miles from Cannich and 35 miles from Inverness.

Plans have been submitted to Glasgow City Council to convert the previously unused basement of the former Clydeport Authority headquarters at 16 Robertson Street into a whisky and jazz bar for up to 90 people. Glasgow Arts Centre Limited and Peel Waters propose a heritage-inspired venue with live music, cultural events, and locally produced food and drink, involving only minimal internal alterations and no significant exterior changes. The project is part of a broader collaboration to regenerate historic buildings, including the Sugar Sheds at James Watt Dock in Greenock.

Jet2.com has launched its Winter 2027/28 ski programme from Glasgow Airport, including weekly Saturday flights to Geneva from mid-December 2027. The service will give Scottish travelers direct access to resorts in the French and Swiss Alps, with thousands of seats available and options for hold luggage and ski carriage. Jet2.com and AGS Airports said the route responds to strong demand and strengthens their partnership.

Glasgow-based Simple Online Healthcare, which operates in the UK as Simple Online Pharmacy, has been shortlisted for both the Lloyds Inclusion Award and Mid-Market Growth Business of the Year at the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards. The company is recognised for initiatives including research into stigma around GLP-1 treatments, a zero per cent gender pay gap and employee equity participation. Its workforce has grown from 69 employees in 2022 to more than 150, while it has supported over one million patients and expanded into Australia and Germany. The winners will be announced in London on 10 November.

Scottish law firm Thorntons has doubled its Glasgow workforce to 64 staff in 12 months and appointed partners Fiona Piper and Stephen Connolly, along with associate Vicky Ward and legal director David White. The expansion supports corporate, employment and private-client services as the firm grows across Scotland, reports 14% revenue growth and prepares to move to a new waterfront headquarters in Dundee.

Edinburgh-based Vault City expects record production this year, forecasting a 38% increase compared with 2023 despite a broader decline in the craft beer sector. The brewery attributes its growth to rising demand for fruit-forward drinks, extensive use of Scottish fruit, frequent product launches and continued investment in production and development. Founded as a homebrewing project by Steven Smith-Hay, Vault City has become a multi-million-pound business supplying more than 5,000 UK supermarkets and exporting to 26 countries.

A partnership between security company SecuriGroup and Down’s Syndrome Scotland is providing paid roles and hands-on experience in the security and events sector to people with Down’s syndrome at a major sporting event in Glasgow. The initiative aims to build participants’ confidence, skills and independence while addressing the low employment rate among disabled people and demonstrating the benefits of inclusive recruitment. Organizers hope it will lead to future employment and encourage more employers to remove barriers to work.

A nationwide aerospace recruitment campaign is bringing an interactive pod made from a repurposed Airbus A318 fuselage to Glasgow on July 29. Led by trade association ADS and backed by major employers including Airbus, GKN Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce and Safran, the initiative aims to address around 10,000 annual technical vacancies across the UK aerospace, defence, security and space sectors. Research found widespread lack of awareness and outdated perceptions of manufacturing careers, despite an average industry salary of £52,600. The campaign also offers an online hub with vacancies, apprenticeships and training opportunities.

ScotRail recorded more than 200,000 passenger journeys on Sunday, July 26, its busiest Sunday since returning to public ownership in April 2022. Demand was boosted by spectators attending Commonwealth Games events in Glasgow and visitors travelling to other attractions. The operator added services and evening trains, following more than seven million journeys in June, and plans further capacity and staffing for Edinburgh’s August festivals.

The Legacy of Slavery, the first international exhibition from Alabama’s Legacy Museum, will run free of charge at Edinburgh’s Playfair Library Hall from August 8 to 30 as part of the Edinburgh International Festival. Coordinated by the Equal Justice Initiative and informed by the work of founder Bryan Stevenson, the immersive exhibition traces the transatlantic slave trade, enslavement, segregation, racial terror, mass incarceration and modern inequalities in justice systems. Although focused on the United States, it also addresses Scotland’s historical links to slavery. The event forms part of the festival’s focus on American life ahead of the 250th anniversary of US independence in 2026.

The Tobermory Book Festival will return to the Western Isles Hotel on the Isle of Mull on October 23 and 24, 2026, featuring authors, broadcasters and historians. Headline speakers include wildlife presenter Gordon Buchanan and festival patron Sir Alexander McCall Smith, alongside crime writers Alex Gray and Colin MacIntyre, historians, journalists and specialists in conservation, gardening and Scotland’s natural environment. Additional sessions will explore the Tobermory Galleon and Scotland’s 16th-century witch trials. Organisers are offering discounted accommodation for visitors staying from October 22 to 25, with tickets and the full programme available through the festival website.

Wingstop will give away 1,000 free chicken wings at its Glasgow restaurant on Wednesday, July 29, as part of a UK and Ireland promotion offering 20,000 wings for National Wing Day. The first 100 customers will receive free 10-piece portions in a flavour of their choice, with the giveaway operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Glasgow was selected as one of the UK’s top five wing-loving cities based on Wingstop order data.

Male Sumatran tiger Lucu has been moved from Edinburgh Zoo to Loro Parque in Tenerife under the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria’s conservation breeding programme. He is intended to be paired with Zaza, a female from Manor Wildlife Park in Wales, with compatibility dependent on their successful adjustment and assessment. The programme uses genetic, health and behavioural criteria to help maintain a diverse captive population of the critically endangered species. Edinburgh Zoo plans to receive another male for its own breeding efforts.

Parabola has opened applications for the second Scottish Emerging Sculptors Award, inviting artists in Scotland who are completing or recently completed their studies or established their practice within the past five years. Five finalists will receive £750 bursaries and mentoring from curator Matthew Jarratt, with one artist receiving a commission for a permanent sculpture at Edinburgh Park. The initiative accompanies the publication of (To)Progress, documenting seven years of arts activity at the site, while poet in residence Janette Ayachi continues to lead literary projects there. The first award winner, Ben Barbour, is expected to have his sculpture installed in 2027.

Five partners at Murray Beith Murray LLP were recognised in the Chambers High Net Worth 2026 rankings, with the firm named a leading private wealth law practice. Chairman Andrew Paterson and colleagues Peter Shand, Alec Stewart, Sophie Napier and Fraser Scott received individual rankings across multiple bands. The recognition follows a period of expansion that includes a refreshed brand identity, new website and the launch of the Andrew Murray Signature Prize. The firm will mark its achievements at a September reception in Edinburgh.

AMS Global Group has purchased new premises in Aberdeen with support from Barclays, including a green loan, to enable its long-term expansion and sustainability goals. The firm plans to refurbish the facility to improve efficiency while continuing to grow its marine surveying and safety operations in the UK and internationally. Barclays highlighted the acquisition as strengthening the company’s control over its operations and supporting further growth in the region.

Lush’s Glasgow store is presenting Korean Classic: In Use, an interactive soap sculpture exhibition by artist Meekyoung Shin that invites visitors to wash their hands using the artworks, gradually transforming them over the summer. The project also appears in Liverpool and London before the sculptures move to the Korean Cultural Centre UK for a wider exhibition in September. Created from Lush’s handmade, palm‑free soap, the pieces evolve through public interaction, reflecting themes of time and impermanence. Lush’s ethical production practices and global reach are highlighted, and additional artists will join the London exhibition later in the year.

Glasgow Caledonian University is providing specialised psychological support to athletes from several smaller Commonwealth nations ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Games through a programme run by postgraduate sport and exercise psychology trainees. The initiative delivers at least 100 hours of tailored assistance per team, combining online and in‑person support and continuing for months after the event. More than 25 athletes have already received guidance, with officials praising the service for addressing a key gap in past Games preparation.

A Drumchapel apprentice, Ricky Booth of Persimmon Homes, was named Apprentice of the Year at the Painting and Decorating Association’s Premier Trophy Awards after progressing through regional and national competitions. He later received recognition at Westminster, invited by MP Patricia Ferguson, who praised his achievements. The award adds to previous honours earned through Glasgow Clyde College and other skills contests.

An exhibition titled Zero Flags Commonwealth will open in Glasgow during the 2026 Commonwealth Games to highlight ongoing criminalisation of LGBTQ+ people in many Commonwealth countries. As part of Pride House Glasgow 2026, the display features flags from nations where same‑sex relationships remain illegal and aims to encourage discussion about equality and inclusion. Pride House will operate across several Merchant City venues, offering support and events for LGBTQ+ athletes and visitors, with organisers emphasising its role in promoting acceptance and positive change across the Commonwealth.

Edinburgh Airport has introduced Scotland’s first home luggage check‑in service through a partnership between easyJet and Airportr. Passengers can have bags collected from home and checked in before arriving at the airport, allowing them to go directly to security. The service expands easyJet’s existing use of Airportr at other airports and launches during a peak travel period. Airport and airline executives describe the initiative as enhancing convenience for travellers and strengthening their ongoing collaboration.

A new 30‑room boutique hotel, The Address Wren, will open on July 17 above Glasgow Central Station within the renovated Caledonian Chambers building. Operated by The Address Collective, it becomes the group’s second Glasgow property and its seventh across Ireland and the UK. The penthouse‑level hotel features contemporary design, bespoke furnishings, and premium finishes, with rooms starting at £150 per night. Directors Brian and Cathal McGettigan highlight the project as part of continued investment in Glasgow and an effort to offer an intimate, design‑led hospitality experience.

A historic short-hole course at Edinburgh’s Bruntsfield Links has unveiled a refurbished community golf hut following a sponsorship partnership with JA Resorts & Hotels. The upgrade includes structural and aesthetic improvements to support the thousands of annual visitors who use the free course. Representatives from both the hotel group and the golf club highlighted the site’s heritage and the importance of supporting local community spaces. The redevelopment also aligns with JA The Bruntsfield hotel’s planned renovation and the company’s broader investment in golf-focused properties.

David Wilson Homes East Scotland launched a Built by Imagination competition inviting children aged five to twelve in Midlothian to redesign a room in one of its family homes. Entries will be judged on creativity, with selected designs turned into digital renderings. Winners will receive Smyths Toys vouchers, and submissions are open until August 12. The initiative aims to engage young people while providing insight into how future families envision home spaces.

Dundas partnered with the Danderhall & District Guerrilla Gardeners to support a litter‑picking initiative involving pupils from Danderhall Primary School, donating safety equipment to enable regular clean‑up activities. Representatives from the company joined volunteers and children during a recent event, aligning with ongoing development work in the nearby Shawfair community. Group leaders and company officials emphasised the value of local partnerships in fostering environmental responsibility and community pride.

Royal Elizabeth Bond near Edinburgh has become the first major whisky warehouse to fully replace paper records with digital cask tracking, introducing unique QR‑enabled Digital Deeds for each cask. Developed by Proof 8, the system aims to improve transparency amid scrutiny over cask investment fraud and recent regulatory changes. The warehouse, approved by HMRC and planning major capacity expansion, says digital records reduce errors and increase confidence for cask owners. Proof 8 highlights the new platform as a safeguard against duplication and record manipulation, offering a level of traceability previously lacking in the industry.

Amorino is opening its first Scottish gelato shop on North Bridge in Edinburgh, marking the brand’s debut in Scotland and expanding its global footprint. The store will offer a full range of flavours, including vegan and gluten‑free options, and will operate extended hours. The launch is part of the Vittoria Hospitality Group’s growing portfolio, with director Leandro Crolla describing it as an exciting step for the family business. Founded in Italy in 2002, Amorino now runs more than 350 locations worldwide.

A new independent cheese shop, The Big Cheese, will open on Broughton Street in Edinburgh, offering over 50 artisan cheeses, many exclusive to the store. Founded by Neil Cunningham after a long corporate career, the shop will feature a bespoke serving counter, seasonal selections, and regular tasting events, while selling complementary items such as crackers, chutneys, and wine. The business has created four jobs and joins a growing local food scene supported by contributions from friends and family during its launch.

Cooper Parry Wealth appointed Darren Lees as its first Scotland-based relationship partner to support its expansion and serve entrepreneurs, business owners, and high‑net‑worth clients. The firm has grown its Scottish team and advanced its UK expansion through acquisitions of several advisory businesses. Leadership highlighted rising demand for integrated wealth, tax, and business advice, while Lees emphasised the firm’s client-focused values and his aim to strengthen its presence across Scotland.

Updated projections for Scotland’s ScotWind offshore wind programme indicate £25.5 billion in expected supply-chain investment across 16 developments, reflecting increased commitments despite sector challenges such as rising costs, grid delays and skills shortages. Crown Estate Scotland highlights strong opportunities tied to the country’s established offshore energy expertise and launches a data platform to support businesses. Most projects await full consent, with the West of Orkney development the only one approved so far. Developers including Buchan Offshore Wind emphasise economic and job creation potential, while one project, CampionWind, has been removed after Shell withdrew.

Balvaird Castle in Perthshire, recently featured in the Outlander prequel, will open to the public for the first time in over a decade through guided tours running from mid‑July to late August. Visitors will explore the restored 15th‑century tower house, including its roof walk, while wearing safety gear due to ongoing conservation work. The tours provide historical context about the castle’s past residents and significance, with limited availability and advance booking required. Historic Environment Scotland is overseeing access and offering member discounts.

Average petrol prices in Scotland have risen to the highest in the UK, with unleaded reaching 151.0p per litre and diesel 164.9p. Rising wholesale costs and global tensions involving the United States, Iran and Russia are pushing prices upward despite recent declines. Only parts of northern England and Northern Ireland remain below 150p. Increased volatility is influencing vehicle choices, with government data showing a surge in electricity consumption by electric vehicles. The AA warns motorists to expect further increases heading into the summer holidays.

Augmented reality archaeology trails have been introduced on the Isle of Barra through the Outer Hebrides Unearthed app, featuring immersive reconstructions of Neolithic and Norse sites at Dùn Bharpa and Cille Bharra. Developed by UHI North, West and Hebrides, the project incorporates community artwork, Gaelic storytelling and digital interpretation tools, with plans to expand to additional sites. Project leaders highlight the educational value and enthusiastic involvement of local school pupils.

Researchers in Edinburgh have developed a faster, lower‑cost method for identifying EGFR gene mutations that guide lung cancer treatment. The fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy technique, combined with artificial intelligence, analyses unstained tissue and accurately distinguishes key mutation types, reducing reliance on lengthy and expensive genetic testing. The approach preserves biopsy samples, could support expanding lung cancer screening programmes, and may be applicable to other cancers. Clinical validation is planned as diagnostic demand increases.

The Edinburgh-based football fashion brand Universal Language is expanding after receiving strategic and IP guidance from Business Gateway. Founded by Chris Aitchison and Pete Burt, the company designs Scottish football–inspired clothing and has sold 5,000 products to over 3,000 customers while generating significant social media reach. Its collections draw from Hearts, Hibernian and the Scotland national team, with plans for further growth. The brand has also raised funds for MND Scotland through a tribute T-shirt, and advisers describe the company’s progress as driven by strong ideas supported by structured business planning.

Scottish soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland conducted a demanding Battle PT session on Portobello Beach, incorporating sand and surf to simulate challenging operational environments. The training followed their participation in NATO’s Exercise SPRING STORM in Estonia, highlighting the varied conditions in which troops must operate. LCpl Thomson noted the importance of adapting to diverse terrains as the regiment marks its 20th anniversary.

Kilmarnock bartender Declan Sloan was named the UK’s Front of House Champion at Nestlé Professional’s Toque d'Or competition after excelling in customer service, mixology, leadership and sustainability during finals in London. His hospitality career began through Diageo’s Learning for Life programme during the pandemic, leading to roles in the industry and multiple competition wins. Supporters highlight his achievement as an example of successful career development through training initiatives.

BBC Scotland political editor Glenn Campbell received an honorary doctorate from Edinburgh Napier University in recognition of his journalism career and advocacy for brain cancer awareness following his diagnosis. Campbell reflected on his unconventional route into journalism and expressed gratitude for the honour. Presenter Miranda Hurst commended his dedication to trusted reporting and public service.

A £2 million emergency fund will open on July 15 to support independent Scottish pig farmers facing severe financial pressure from persistently low prices, sector exits and reduced breeding sow numbers. Eligible producers can claim losses based on the Standard Pig Price, excluding those linked to abattoirs. The Scottish Government expects the funding to protect jobs, stabilize the pork supply chain and safeguard the Prime Scottish Pork brand. Industry representatives welcome the support amid declining producer confidence and heightened concern over future production levels.

Tomatin expanded its presence in UK retail through new listings for two exclusive single malts in Tesco, Waitrose, Booker Wholesale and Booths, alongside increased on-trade distribution via LWC Wholesale. The Tomatin 10 Year Old and Double Cask expressions gained international awards, while sales director Gordon Hynd highlighted strong consumer demand and the strategic importance of broadening market reach.

Vue Edinburgh Omni will screen England’s FIFA World Cup quarter‑final against Norway live as part of its Big Screen Sports programme. The late‑evening showing follows earlier screenings of Scotland’s matches, offering fans a large‑screen experience despite Scotland’s elimination. Vue highlights its technology and nationwide cinema network, with tickets available through its website.

A long‑established family‑run business, Allarburn Farm Shop in Elgin, has been put up for sale after three decades, with owners seeking to pass it to a new family. The shop evolved from a 1996 milk delivery service into a diversified operation including processing facilities, egg production and a major farm shop promoting Scottish produce. The owners, who previously sold the delivery arm and dairy herds to Claymore Dairies, said the decision followed two years of consideration and expressed hope for future growth under new ownership.

The Ben Cruachan Inn in Lochawe, Argyll has been put up for sale after a decade under its current owners, who cite a desire to pass the business to new custodians. The award‑winning hospitality property includes a bar, kitchen, guest rooms, garden suites and outdoor areas, and is being marketed as a going concern by CCL Property. Ownership representatives expressed pride in transforming the former derelict pub into a successful business, while CCL Property highlighted the inn’s strong branding, modern facilities and high market interest among potential buyers.

John Lewis plans to close bureaux de change in 30 stores and dedicated gift‑wrapping stations in 25 locations, placing about 200 jobs at risk as part of a wider restructuring under chairman Jason Tarry. The company cites shifting customer behaviour favouring online currency services and digital payments. Gift‑wrapping will continue at tills. The retailer previously closed its housebuilding division and reinstated staff bonuses after improved profits, despite recording a pre‑tax loss due to one‑off costs. The GMB Union is seeking urgent talks and urging avoidance of compulsory redundancies.

A major free exhibition by sculptor Eva Rothschild will open at Edinburgh’s Fruitmarket from July to October, showcasing new sculptures, recent works and immersive installations across three gallery spaces. Highlights include pieces from the Shrinking Universe series, the Soft Play sculpture series, and the premiere of Safe (2026), a newly commissioned film exploring boys’ and young men’s interaction with public space. A new publication featuring contributions from Andrea Schlieker and Philippa Snow will accompany the exhibition. Fruitmarket’s director Fiona Bradley highlights the transformation of the gallery spaces and the opportunity for audiences to engage with Rothschild’s latest work.

Sephora opened its first Scottish store at Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, marking the start of a major UK expansion that includes upcoming locations in Glasgow and London. Large crowds attended a launch event featuring performances and promotional activities. Company leaders highlighted Scotland’s strong beauty market and the strategic value of Edinburgh as a retail destination, while St James Quarter’s management welcomed the addition as a boost to the shopping centre’s appeal.

A global indoor activity park brand, SuperPark, will open its first UK location at Frasers Plus Braehead in Renfrewshire, offering more than 30 interactive activities aimed at all ages. The new venue is expected to boost local tourism and attract families while creating jobs and engaging with community groups. Company leadership emphasized the park’s inclusive design and use of technology to motivate physical activity, while VisitScotland welcomed the investment as a positive addition to the region.

The family-run Avonbridge Hotel in Hamilton has been sold after more than 50 years in operation, with the transaction managed by Christie & Co. Established in 1973 by Luigi and Rita Martalo, the hotel features 65 rooms, multiple dining areas and function spaces, and includes Bar Milano. Representatives involved in the sale expressed gratitude to customers and staff while wishing success to the new owner. Financial details were not disclosed.

A new mooring and pontoon in Cairndow on Scotland’s west coast will open on July 18 as the first phase of a community‑led regeneration effort. Funded by SSE Renewables, Here We Are and local contributors, the project aims to boost tourism, connectivity and economic activity. Located near walking routes and popular attractions, the facility will use an honesty‑based booking system and features a new map for visitors. Local residents supported the initiative through land and equipment donations, and community leaders describe the project as a key step in Cairndow’s long‑term growth.

Edinburgh Airport has become the first publicly named Pioneer partner for IMPACT, a nature recovery programme led by The Future Forest Company. The initiative focuses on evidence‑led restoration and long‑term stewardship across UK landscapes, emphasised by new data showing ecological pressures at the Dumyat restoration site. Following a Pioneer Day event, the airport highlighted its role in supporting sustainable, locally grounded recovery efforts, while project leaders noted increasing business interest in credible environmental action.

The National Library of Scotland is marking 90 years of Oor Wullie and The Broons with free family events in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Dundee from July 24 to 26. Exhibits will feature rare items from national collections, costumed characters and activity zones. The comics’ long-standing cultural significance in Scotland is highlighted through comments from library representatives, noting their enduring popularity since their debut in the 1930s and their role as cultural icons through major historical moments.

A historic Dunfermline building has been converted into 32 affordable, energy‑efficient flats through a £7.4 million redevelopment led by Campion Homes and Kingdom Housing Association, supported by £3.1 million in Scottish Government funding. The project preserved original architectural features while adding modern structural upgrades and a low‑carbon heat pump system. Local MSP Shirley‑Anne Somerville and project leaders praised the transformation as a model for repurposing vacant buildings and strengthening community housing options.

An award-winning dining and spoken‑word event, Feast of Words, will debut in Edinburgh from July 29 to 31 as part of the Edinburgh Folk & Food Festival. Curated by Assembly Festival, the 90‑minute experience features poetry, storytelling, live music and a three‑course tasting menu created by Michelin‑starred chef Tomás Gormley, with both vegetarian and vegan options available. Following strong reception at the Adelaide Fringe, the event aims to blend performance and fine dining, with tickets starting at £46.25. The broader festival runs from July 24 to August 2 and includes street food vendors, live folk music and family programming.

SSE reports that expanding clean energy and shifting toward electrification could reduce UK energy bills by 35 percent while increasing energy security and competitiveness. The company urges reforms to electricity policy costs, including removing levies from bills, and highlights strong public support for domestic clean energy production. SSE plans £33 billion in electricity infrastructure investment by 2030, while business-focused reforms could cut costs for small enterprises. Industry leaders emphasize that moving away from volatile global gas markets would stabilize prices and strengthen the UK economy.

Dean’s, a family‑owned Huntly bakery known for shortbread, secured £4.9 million in funding from Bank of Scotland to expand production capacity and support rising international demand across markets including Australia, China, Japan, the US, and Europe. The investment aligns with the company’s 50th anniversary and its acquisition of Duncan’s of Deeside, enhancing its market reach. Company leaders and the bank emphasised the brand’s growth, heritage, and contributions to the local Aberdeenshire economy.

Avanti West Coast has joined Railway Children’s three-day Day of Action campaign to help protect vulnerable children and young people across the UK rail network. The initiative, launched at Glasgow Central station and concluding at Edinburgh Waverley, involves rail operators raising awareness among passengers and staff about warning signs and reporting procedures, with posters and outreach activities held at stations and on trains. Railway Children and Avanti West Coast said cooperation across the rail industry is essential to creating a safer environment for young people.