Latest news with #StewartAttwood
Scotsman
13-07-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Giant Scottish strawberries may look delicious - but the changing climate is a flashing red light
This year's berries season may seem like a boon - but it comes with complications, writes Iain Clunie. 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... This year's berry season has come early - far earlier than growers expected. Across Scotland, an unseasonably warm spring has accelerated the development of soft fruits, pushing ripening windows forward by as much as two weeks in some regions. For consumers, that might mean local strawberries on shelves a little earlier than usual. But for the growers behind those berries, it's a flashing red light. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The size of berries produced in Scotland has expanded this summer. | Stewart Attwood Photography What we're witnessing is more than a one-off anomaly. It's climate change in real time. While the immediate disruption is logistical, affecting harvesting windows, labour scheduling and delivery slots, the long-term implications are deeper and more existential. Scotland's soft fruit sector is worth £197.8 million a year to the Scottish retail market and supports hundreds of rural jobs. But its future is becoming harder to predict, let alone plan for. Warmer winters and earlier springs are now regularly altering the growth cycle. Inconsistent temperature patterns can affect berry size and sugar development, while wetter winters and springs are fuelling the spread of pests and diseases once considered uncommon in Scotland. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This year's warm spring may have brought excellent pollination conditions and unseasonably early, accelerated growth for many berry growers. In the short term, this can seem like a win. But Scotland's natural environment is a finely balanced system, and it can only absorb so much disruption before the strain starts to show. Earlier ripening can clash with labour availability, affect fruit quality, and narrow the crucial window for harvesting and packing. What benefits growers one year might create bottlenecks the next. Iain Clunie | Alan Richardson Farmers and growers are incredibly resilient, but their tools for managing such volatility are being stretched to the limit. Many say they can no longer rely on the traditional growing calendar. With conditions shifting unpredictably year to year, they are increasingly being forced into reactive decisions around harvesting, labour and logistics. And yet, while climate change is clearly a threat, it also brings opportunity. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Scotland's natural environment still gives us a climate advantage. While parts of southern Europe and even England may struggle to maintain consistent soft fruit production due to extreme heat and water stress, Scotland could become an increasingly important growing region. But that potential will only be realised if we invest now in adaptation and resilience. That means innovation. Research institutions like the James Hutton Institute are pioneering climate-resilient berry varieties, such as raspberries bred to need less water, labour and fertiliser, and are helping farmers adopt techniques such as remote monitoring and precision irrigation. These aren't futuristic concepts. They're already being trialled and already making a difference. It also means aligning with the food and drink industry's wider net-zero goals. Scottish producers are starting to invest in low-carbon technologies, from renewable-powered cold storage to reduced-emission logistics, and rethinking how they use energy, materials and waste. These aren't just environmental changes. They're strategic decisions that position businesses to meet rising expectations from retailers and consumers. But farmers can't do it alone. From local community growers supplying farm shops and markets to the big-name producers putting berries on supermarket shelves across the UK, all of Scotland's growers are feeling the pressure of a changing climate. All of them play a vital role in feeding the nation, sustaining rural jobs, and keeping our shelves stocked with world-class summer fruits. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To thrive as a nation of berry growers, we must ensure every producer – large or small –has the tools to adapt. That means equal access to innovation, technology and funding. It may require greater publicity around available support, longer funding windows, hands-on help with applications, and tailored business advice. The pace of climate change must be matched by a step change in how we support the food system. That includes long-term investment in research, infrastructure and practical guidance, as well as a culture of collaboration that lifts the whole sector. And above all, it means recognition from retailers, policymakers and the public that backing Scottish berries is an investment in our food security, our rural economy, and our net zero future. This year's early berries are a gift of summer, but also a signal. We are at a critical juncture. The climate is shifting. The pressures are mounting. But with the right tools and commitment, Scotland's berry growers can adapt, innovate and lead. The heat is on. So is the opportunity.
Edinburgh Reporter
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Reporter
Days out – Free tickets for children to visit Scone Palace
Scone Palace in Perthshire is offering free tickets for children until 15 August. The palace is a treasure trove of history, nature and fun for children of all ages with a blend of historic storytelling and outdoor adventure. Children aged 15 and under can step into the past for free as they stand where Scottish kings like Charles II were crowned on Moot Hill and pose for a photo on the mock Stone of Destiny. Inside the palace a treasure hunt has been set up with a small prize to be won. The Palace grounds provide plenty of space for children to run, explore, and play. With over 100 acres of gardens and woodlands to discover, there's no shortage of fresh air and freedom. The grounds feature an adventure playground, the Murray star- Maze, and a chance to spot local wildlife including butterflies, squirrels, and the famous vibrant peacocks that roam the estate. It is possible to get to Scone Palace by public transport or bike as well as by car. All options here. All food in the coffee shop is prepared using ingredients from the Palace's Kitchen Garden. Diners can choose from baked goods, soups and children's lunchboxes. A gift shop sells books and toys as souvenirs to take home at the end of the are events such as Falconry Fridays on 11 July and 15 August and Circus Workshops taking place on 24 July. The Kids Go Free promotion runs daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm between 30 June and 15 August 2025. Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the gate. With something for everyone, from history lovers and nature enthusiasts to energetic little explorers, Scone Palace is an ideal summer day out for families. Scone Palace – Kids Go Free All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025. Scone Palace – Kids Go Free All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025. Scone Palace – Kids Go Free All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025. Scone Palace – Kids Go Free All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025. Like this: Like Related
Glasgow Times
06-07-2025
- Glasgow Times
Orange Lodge hits out after air rifle fired at Glasgow march
Participants were walking along Sauchiehall Street near Kelvingrove Street yesterday when the incident took place. A spokesperson told The Scottish Sun: "The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland expresses deep concern over the alarming incident that occurred yesterday, where members of our Institution were targeted and fired upon with an air rifle. "This reckless act has escalated the level of hostility towards the Orange Order, endangering the lives of our members." They added that The Most Worthy Grand Master requests a meeting with Scotland's First Minister to "address this incident and the escalating tide of anti-Protestant sentiment we face daily". Orange Lodge hits out after air rifle fired at Glasgow march (Image: Stewart Attwood) READ NEXT: Urgent probe launched after weapon fired during Orange Order procession The statement continued: "We urge the First Minister to take decisive action against these hate crimes, including condemning the attacks on our properties and our members. "The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland stands united with the County Grand Lodge of Glasgow and Police Scotland in ensuring that those responsible for this cowardly act are swiftly brought to justice." Police Scotland said no one was injured but condemned the 'dangerous occurrence' and said investigations are ongoing.
Scotsman
05-07-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Scotland's lawyers need to embrace the digital transformation
Clients want to manage their affairs securely, remotely and on their own terms, writes Josif Grace Sign up to our Scotsman Money newsletter, covering all you need to know to help manage your money. 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... The Law Commission of England and Wales recently published final recommendations to modernise the Wills Act, including proposals to allow for the digital signing and witnessing of wills. While these changes do not apply in Scotland, they raise timely and relevant questions for the legal profession north of the Border. Scotland's succession law operates within a distinct legal framework, with its own rules around capacity, witnessing and execution. At present, there is no indication that equivalent reforms are imminent. However, the broader momentum around digital transformation in legal processes, particularly where client engagement and accessibility are concerned, is hard to ignore. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad These proposals are not simply about introducing new technology. They reflect a growing drive to reduce friction, simplify legacy planning, and align legal services with how people increasingly manage their affairs — securely, remotely, and on their own terms. Law firms that take steps now to modernise their approach will be better prepared to lead if and when the landscape shifts (Picture: Despite the fundamental importance of will-making, more than half of UK adults still do not have a will. The reasons vary, but a consistent barrier is the perception that the process is too formal, too complex, or not designed with modern life in mind. While legal reform in Scotland may not be imminent, client expectations are shifting across the UK. This presents a challenge as well as an opportunity for Scottish firms. Individuals increasingly expect the same clarity, flexibility and security from legal services that they experience in banking, healthcare and financial planning. Firms that can deliver that while still upholding legal rigour will be well placed to meet demand. Even without legislative change, Scottish firms are already improving the client journey by adopting digital infrastructure. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Platforms like Legado are being used by firms across the UK – including by Co-Op Legal Services, one of the largest providers of estate planning and probate services in the UK – to securely store and share documents, support encrypted client communications, and facilitate digital signing where appropriate. Josif Grace, CEO and Founder, Legado (Picture: Stewart Attwood) This infrastructure is not about replacing legal processes but reinforcing them. It gives professionals the ability to manage documents securely, trace actions clearly, and offer clients long-term visibility over their affairs. By embedding tools such as digital vaults, audit logs and identity verification into workflows, firms can increase both efficiency and trust. These enhancements support better client engagement and reduce the administrative burden, while maintaining the core legal safeguards that underpin the process of will-making. Scotland may not yet be pursuing the same legislative path as England and Wales, but the profession is still part of a wider shift in how legal services are delivered. The question is no longer just about legal reform. It is also about operational readiness and the experience clients receive. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This moment provides space to reflect. Are our systems and processes keeping pace with the expectations of the people we serve? Firms that take steps now to modernise their approach will be better prepared to lead if and when the legal landscape shifts, and will deliver greater value to their clients in the meantime.
Scotsman
24-06-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
New report explores financial concerns for veterans in Scotland
Susie Hamilton | Stewart Attwood The Scottish Veterans Commissioner has published a new report exploring the financial wellbeing of veterans in Scotland. Sign up to our Scotsman Money newsletter, covering all you need to know to help manage your money. 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... Veterans and Finance looks at the financial advice and support available to veterans as they transition from military to civilian life and beyond, examines accessibility of the welfare system, and explores exposure to gambling harms in the veteran community. It also recognises the valuable skills veterans contribute to Scotland's financial services industry, and the potential for rewarding second careers in the sector. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Drawing on extensive engagement with veterans, public bodies, charities and the financial sector, the report recognises that the vast majority of Scottish veterans make a smooth and successful transition to civilian life, with financial stability and fulfilling employment. However, it also highlights the complex financial challenges faced by some – particularly when navigating unfamiliar and complex welfare systems. These issues can be compounded by limited financial literacy, specific complications around Armed Forces pensions and compensation, and lack of awareness of available support. The report outlines areas where support can be improved, including in areas that are the responsibility of the UK Government. These include the importance of developing effective life skills while in Service and the value for veterans of being able to access statutory support that is appropriately resourced. Commissioner Susie Hamilton said: 'For most Scottish veterans, their experience of military life is positive and fulfilling and is often followed by a second, equally successful career. Most will be financially secure and able to provide for the future. A minority, however, will struggle to gain financial stability in the civilian world. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Complex systems and processes, particularly in accessing welfare support, can present challenges for anyone seeking support. For veterans, unfamiliarity with civilian processes, alongside the interplay between MoD pensions and compensation, places them at greater disadvantage. 'Research has shown that serving personnel and veterans are also significantly more likely to be affected by gambling harms than the civilian community, and more work needs to be done to raise awareness of this issue, reduce stigma and provide support for those affected.' While the report identifies areas of concern, it also highlights examples of strong support and good practice across Scotland's public and third sectors. 'Veterans and Finance' makes four key recommendations to the Scottish Government: Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Building on previous recommendations, guidance to local authorities in Scotland should clearly state that all armed forces compensation, including awards under the War Pension Scheme, must be fully disregarded when calculating income for means-tested benefits. Veterans accessing benefits through Social Security Scotland are identified and supported by staff who are trained to be 'veteran aware'. Clearly designated points of contact in Social Security Scotland for veterans - and for those supporting them - should be easily identifiable and accessible. Staff delivering financial or debt advice services that receive statutory funding are trained to be 'veteran aware', ensuring they understand the unique needs of the veteran community and are equipped to provide appropriate support. Veterans are explicitly recognised as a population at heightened risk in the development of appropriate public health policy, services, and support addressing gambling harms. The Commissioner concluded: 'Financial stability is a cornerstone of overall wellbeing, therefore it is vital that barriers facing the veteran community are removed. By addressing the challenges and building on good practice, we can move closer to a Scotland where no one is financially disadvantaged because of their Service.'
