Market town of Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland — historic county town and Doonhamers cradle
The government has unveiled plans to give England’s mayoral authorities a share of income tax to fund local development. While praised as a potential fix for regional inequality, the policy will take years to implement and risk leaving slower-growing areas behind, as councils seek to borrow for major projects amid central oversight.
Peter Murrell has been jailed for five years and three months after admitting he embezzled just over £400,000 from the Scottish National Party over a 12-year period. Separately, Greek courts have convicted a man over the 2009 killing of Jean Hanlon and Cédric Jubillar has written a first confession admitting involvement in his wife Delphine's disappearance.
[Synopsis will be inserted here]
Scotland faces a maternity care crisis with hundreds of deaths in five years. An independent review is announced to inspect culture, rural services and safety, while calls grow for a broader safety remit.
Dumfries’ Regal Cinema reopening faces further delays after break-ins and snagging issues push plans beyond previously stated dates. Landlords urge the public to stay out until work is complete and police are alerted to suspicious activity.
Formula One’s 2026 engine split has sparked praise and protests. Cars are faster, lighter and more electrified, but drivers say the new rules hinder on-track racing. Audi’s entry is shaping the calendar, with officials weighing contingency plans for the season end amid regional conflicts.