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Edinburgh Reporter
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Reporter
Director of Mischief appointed at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has created a new role, adding the first ever 'Director of Mischief' position to its team. Get ready for an unforgettable summer, because Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is about to make family holidays more memorable than ever! The team are on the hunt for their very own 'Director of Mischief' – a local child who knows Edinburgh inside out and is eager to share their top tips for fun with families exploring the vibrant city. Situated right in the heart of the Capital, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is the perfect base for family adventures. With top family tourist attractions, like Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura just a stone's throw away, it's the must-choose destination for a luxury stay that parents love and kids will never forget. The 'Director of Mischief' will join the team as the ultimate fun ambassador, providing real and trusted recommendations to even the youngest guests. The chosen child will not only boast the coolest title in town but will also get to share their favourite summer spots and activities with visiting families. Working with the team to curate a series of kid-friendly travel guides, from the best things to do on a rainy day to hidden local gems and even Harry Potter-themed adventures. Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: 'With the Scottish summer holidays kicking off, there's no better time to launch this initiative. Families and kids will be planning their holiday itineraries, and we want to inspire them with exciting activities and adventures to keep the fun rolling all summer long. 'From the best places to play, the yummiest spots for treats, and the most thrilling adventures – we want our Director to ensure every child's experience in Edinburgh is absolutely unforgettable! 'Are you a young Edinburgh explorer with a knack for fun? Do you have a great sense of adventure and love discovering new places? Then we need YOU.' In collaboration with Museum Context, the successful applicant will receive a magical prize package, including: Complimentary Access to Top Edinburgh Attractions: Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations – from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations – from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Luxury Family Stay at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises Exclusive Backstage Access at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests Private After-Hours Visit to Museum Context: A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake – perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion – to take home A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake – perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion – to take home The Official Title of 'Director of Mischief': With the role comes recognition, responsibility (of the fun variety), and memories to last a lifetime . Parents and guardians, don't miss out on this unique opportunity! Applications are now open for children who would like to be considered as the first Director of Mischief. To apply, simply film a video of your child sharing their favourite places to visit in and around Edinburgh. For more information and to submit your application, please visit: Applications must be submitted by Sunday 31st August, with the lucky winner revealed on Monday 22nd September. Instagram and Facebook . Follow along with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's family-friendly events all summer long on social media here:and Like this: Like Related
Scotsman
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Kids, get ready to unleash your inner mischief with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is excited to announce the creation of a brand new role, adding the first-ever 'Director of Mischief' position to its team. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Get ready for an unforgettable summer, because Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is about to make family holidays more memorable than ever! The team are on the hunt for their very own 'Director of Mischief' – a local child who knows Edinburgh inside out and is eager to share their top tips for fun with families exploring the vibrant city. Situated right in the heart of the Capital, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is the perfect base for family adventures. With top family tourist attractions, like Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura just a stone's throw away, it's the must-choose destination for a luxury stay that parents love and kids will never forget. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The 'Director of Mischief' will join the team as the ultimate fun ambassador, providing real and trusted recommendations to even the youngest guests. The chosen child will not only boast the coolest title in town but will also get to share their favourite summer spots and activities with visiting families. Working with the team to curate a series of kid-friendly travel guides, from the best things to do on a rainy day to hidden local gems and even Harry Potter-themed adventures. Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Launches Search for 'Director of Mischief' Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: 'With the Scottish summer holidays kicking off, there's no better time to launch this initiative. Families and kids will be planning their holiday itineraries, and we want to inspire them with exciting activities and adventures to keep the fun rolling all summer long. 'From the best places to play, the yummiest spots for treats, and the most thrilling adventures – we want our Director to ensure every child's experience in Edinburgh is absolutely unforgettable! 'Are you a young Edinburgh explorer with a knack for fun? Do you have a great sense of adventure and love discovering new places? Then we need YOU.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In collaboration with Museum Context, the successful applicant will receive a magical prize package, including: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Launches Search for 'Director of Mischief' Complimentary Access to Top Edinburgh Attractions: Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations - from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations - from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Luxury Family Stay at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises Exclusive Backstage Access at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests Private After-Hours Visit to Museum Context: A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake - perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion - to take home A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake - perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion - to take home The Official Title of 'Director of Mischief': With the role comes recognition, responsibility (of the fun variety), and memories to last a lifetime Parents and guardians, don't miss out on this unique opportunity! Applications are now open for children who would like to be considered as the first Director of Mischief. To apply, simply film a video of your child sharing their favourite places to visit in and around Edinburgh. For more information and to submit your application, please visit: Applications must be submitted by Sunday 31st August, with the lucky winner revealed on Monday 22nd September.
Edinburgh Live
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Oasis fan hits out before Edinburgh gigs after noticing 'something wrong with crowd'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info While the Cardiff instalment of Oasis's global tour had many fans belting out anthems with gusto, not all shared the same enthusiasm, as one TikTok user's video revealed. The footage captured on Saturday evening, during the second night of the tour at the Principality Stadium, showed a crowd seemingly indifferent to the Gallagher brothers' stage presence, much to the dismay of the fan filming. Laura Bradshaw, identified as the disgruntled fan, swept her camera across the seated spectators and vented her frustration in the caption: "Why is everyone sat down - this is who you lost tickets to btw," accompanied by a tearful emoji. READ MORE - Exact date Edinburgh heatwave coming as residents set for temperatures of 27C READ MORE - Fans divided after Edinburgh Castle gig as Marti Pellow takes to stage The video sparked debate among viewers. Some echoed Laura's sentiments, with one commenting, "why is no one singing! I wasn't sat down. Stood up singing loud and proud as everyone should have been for the struggle it was to get tickets." Others lamented the missed opportunity for die-hard supporters, with remarks like, "Real fans of oasis missed out so people can come and sit down at a concert.", reports the Mirror. Complaints about the subdued atmosphere were also voiced, with a comment stating, "WHY IS IT SO QUIET." However, not everyone agreed with the criticism. One attendee retorted, "we were in seats on the left side and we all stood up for the entire gig!". Another offered a humorous explanation, "Because they're original fans and our backs are shot to pieces." A third individual weighed in, remarking: "I would be seating too - appreciating and taking it all in. Standing and jumping about isn't the only way to enjoy it." And a fourth contributed: "What are they meant to do, it's difficult to dance to Cast No Shadow." (Image:) (Image:) (Image: laurabradshxw/Tiktok) A fifth person pointed out: "Because standing up at a gig has no bearing on my of how much of a fan you are?". This follows an incident where an Oasis fan became an internet sensation after she was spotted using the music identification app Shazam to discover the title of "one of the greatest songs of all time." The Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, drew an audience of over 75,000 as they reunited on stage for the first time in 16 years, launching their global comeback tour. Richard Ashcroft from The Verve warmed up the crowd with his rendition of the iconic 1997 track Bitter Sweet Symphony. Yet, amidst the fans, one woman was unfamiliar with the tune. A TikTok video captured the moment the gig-goer used Shazam to identify the song, which Rolling Stone magazine has hailed as one of the greatest ever. The fan who recorded the scene captioned her video: "Imagine not knowing the greatest song of all time." Upon viewing the footage, numerous people flocked to social media to express their indignation. One commenter posted: "Seriously! I couldn't get a ticket because of these people." Another lamented: "This is the people who got our tickets." A third shared their frustration: "this is who i lost my tickets too. And there's real fans from the 90's that couldn't get tickets'". Another disgruntled fan chimed in: "nah there's no way i lost tickets to someone shazaming one of the most popular songs of the britpop era."
Edinburgh Live
07-07-2025
- Edinburgh Live
Social influencer gangster attacked after filming video where Scottish mobsters died
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A gangster was brutally attacked just days after making a video at the scene of the murders of two Scottish mob leaders. Self-styled social influencer Sam Walker – who has gathered a massive online following with reports on his criminal life – was seriously injured in the attack, which left him with a mass of staples in his skull. The attack came after he posted a video from Monaghan's bar in Fuengirola, in the Costa del Sol. The "reportage" video was seen by some in the community as disrespectful to victims Ross Monaghan, who owned the bar, and his long-time friend and associate Eddie Lyons jnr. The pair were gunned down on May 31 in front of terrified punters who had been enjoying the Champions League final, reports the Daily Record. READ MORE - Exact date Edinburgh heatwave coming as residents set for temperatures of 27C READ MORE - Fans divided after Edinburgh Castle gig as Marti Pellow takes to stage Walker, from Liverpool, had visited the scene shortly after the horror shootings and used the footage on his Instagram and TikTok platforms. He is heard saying at the end of the footage: "This is a message to any one of yous out here. Stay on point, because if you get caught slipping. That's what happens. Three people have been whacked, two people are dead. "Have a nice day, bam bam." It later emerged that Walker was savagely attacked in nearby Puerto Banus, where he suffered serious head injuries in the assault believed by some other bloggers to have involved golf clubs. After surgery in a Spanish hospital, he made a series of videos, showing off the staples that were holding his head together. (Image: Daily Record) A source said: "Sam Walker is very well known and has a big social media following but he is not in the same criminal league as some of the big players who have settled here. Walker is known to create noise around his movements and to chase followers and hits, so there was scepticism at the seriousness of the attack at the start. "But it does seem that he was very badly injured. It has been reported on several social media channels that the side of his head was 'caved in' and fragments of bone were lodged in his brain." The source added: "We don't know for sure but the video he made shortly after the Glasgow people were murdered did not go down well in some quarters and there remains the question that he was attacked as revenge. "Spanish police are well aware of this suggestion. There are various theories as to the motive for the attack. It is almost certainly related to gangland grudges." In recent years, Walker has spent time in Sierra Leone, Turkey, Cyprus, Ireland, Thailand and other locations. His friends include other drug dealers and assorted criminals. The crook has attracted a big following on Instagram and TikTok but is mocked for fabricating stories. He also been involved acts of kindness and charity work in Africa. In the summer of 2018, Walker filmed himself surrounded by celebrating children in a poverty-stricken slum in Sierra Leone. He had just overseen the delivery of a container full of supplies and the installation of a water tank and pipes to the West African country's capital, Freetown. Amid clapping and cheering, one man said: "We are happy that our brother Sam has come to help us with water and sanitation. We thank God for him." Walker told the camera: "Now, no child is going to have to drink dirty water again." The crook had travelled by private jet to Belgium, flown to Spain, caught a cargo ship to Morocco, then driven through the Sahara desert to reach his destination. All throughout his journey, he taunted police officers in social media posts, laughing and posting at the end of his epic trip: "Better luck trying to catch me when I go out of the country next time, Merseyside Police." In March last year, Walker further mocked police after skipping bail in the UK and fleeing back to Sierra Leone by private jet. He was arrested by local armed officers as he filmed a live TikTok video. Self-confessed career criminal Walker – who once threatened to end the career of England football star Ross Barkley and was involved in an unlikely spat with actor Stephen Fry – was tracked down as he toured the streets of the impoverished African country. In September last year, the 40-year-old Scouser was convicted of contempt of court for live streaming on TikTok from an Irish courtroom. Walker, said to have convictions for more than 130 offences, was in court to plead guilty to driving offences. Monaghan, 43, was shot dead alongside Lyons jnr, 46, in Fuengirola. Both men were senior members of the Lyons crime family. An alleged hitman has appeared in court after being arrested over the double killing. Michael Riley, 44, of Liverpool's Huyton, is also fighting extradition to Spain. Merseyside Police nicked Riley on June 13 after Spanish officers issued an international arrest warrant. A magistrates court deemed him a flight risk and remanded him in custody.
The Guardian
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Bangkok Diners Club, Manchester M4: ‘This will soon be one of Manchester's hottest dining tickets' – restaurant review
Bangkok Diners Club feels a bit as if it's tucked down a humid Rattanakosin sidestreet in the Thai capital's old town, rather than in a room above a pub 6,000 miles away in Ancoats, Manchester. Husband-and-wife team Ben and Bo Humphreys have brought their joint skills to the Edinburgh Castle, an elegantly restored 19th-century pub with an upstairs restaurant that in recent years has made quite a name for itself; before the Humphreys' arrival, this same space was the lair of Winsome's Shaun Moffat, where plaudits and gongs were in ready supply, but then Moffat got his hands on his own place and this upstairs room needed a pair of cool, capable hands to take over. Look no further than Ben and Bo, who have a pedigree in forward-thinking Thai cuisine. Bo was born and raised in Thailand's north-eastern Isaan region, before moving to Bangkok in her teens, while Ben has cooked at Manchester's Thai fusion restaurant District and, before that, at Tattu, Rabbit in the Moon and Lucky Cat. After the closure of District in 2022, the couple spent three years eating their way across Thailand and the US, picking up inspiration for dishes in which authentic Thai flavours, and occasionally Bo's family-favourite recipes, could merge with the Korean and Mexican barbecue flavours of Miami smokehouses. Here, heat, citrus, fresh turmeric, shrimp paste and all the complexities of Bangkok cuisine meet relatively sleepy, low-and-slow American barbecue. Yes, many chefs in Bangkok do indeed cook over live fire, but the flames there are generally a little more lively than those permitted in this tiny kitchen of a wooden-floored pub in north-west England. And when Bangkok meets Manchester via Miami, you get the likes of pork jowl taco with a rich, smoky, burnt-tomato jaew, and southern Thai mutton gaeng khua that's hot with black pepper and dried red chilli, and served with pickled celeriac and fresh roti. Bangkok Diners Club claims to be new and innovative, as, let's face it, every new restaurant does, but they actually have a valid point here. This small kitchen slinging out raw bass with silky calamansi nam jim and rice bran to a tiny collection of tables is a very long way away from the traditional timeworn Thai scene in the UK, where pad thais and green curries are dished up on a table featuring a golden statuette of Buddha from Dunelm. That said, the place is also a long way from that purposefully edgy UK-Thai cooking I've suffered at many a hip British Bangkok-led establishment, always with an English chef and where the dishes turn up as and when, with each one hotter, grittier, twiggier and less moreish than the last. The Humphreys' restaurant, on the other hand, is authentic, boundary-pushing, a little odd – and also makes perfect sense. Smoked mackerel with jet-black charred skin comes on a salad of fresh grapefruit and ginger, followed by a nam tok salad that's heavy with thick slices of salt-aged beef and comes with bone marrow aïoli. Bo serves us, taking delight in the fact that I've brought my brother for his birthday and he's ready to eat. She's keen we try the battered pickled onion rings with curry salt and the grilled chicken skewers made heavenly with milk caramel. Artichoke and golden beetroot massaman curry – heavy on the cardamom, cinnamon and star anise – is a highlight for me, and comes with decadently good chicken-fat rice, while the roast pork belly phat phet with rhubarb stir-fry is also a huge hit. We order steamed broccoli with funky, fermented yellow beans to hit our vitamin quota, and pick our way through a papaya salad made more meaningful by the addition of shrimp floss. This is a cracking little progressive, family-run place that has hit the ground running and will no doubt soon be one of Manchester's hottest dining tickets. It has a small menu that has totted up many air miles in its making, and a big, generous heart. That evening's menu was the first to feature a Bangkok Diners Club dessert in the shape of an ice lolly-shaped mass of rice ice-cream with a Jackson Pollock-esque topping of zinging fruit sauces. Simple, fun and just enough to send us off out into Saturday night Manchester with a spring in our step and deep intentions to come back. When so many far-afield cuisines collide, I don't usually expect the middle ground to be some battered pickled onion rings, but this is Manchester, and that's bizarrely, beautifully fitting. Bangkok Diners Club The Edinburgh Castle, Blossom Street, Manchester M4, 0161-414 0004. Open lunch Fri & Sat, noon-3pm; dinner Tues-Sat, 5-9.30pm. From about £35 a head à la carte, plus drinks and service
