Archipelago off Scotland’s north coast; historic Norse links, Kirkwall as administrative hub
Loganair has agreed to purchase Beta Alia CX300 all‑electric aircraft, with an option for five more, aiming to become Europe’s first airline with an electric fleet. Trials in Scotland have demonstrated an 80% potential reduction in operating costs, with 20–40 minute recharge times. Service is slated for 2029, focusing on short regional hops.
The Aberdeen diocese has condemned the consecration of Father Michael Mary as a bishop without papal mandate, marking a concrete schismatic split. The Vatican is scrutinising the Transalpine Redemptorist community amid ongoing questions about canonical authority and unity within the Church.
The Balmaclellan parish church window, depicting Jesus and possibly based on Alfred Webster’s drawing, is slated for relocation to a Dalry church as the Balmaclellan building is declared surplus. The Church of Scotland has submitted plans to move the century-old stained glass, which will be conserved and installed in a new frame to benefit from better natural light. Community groups are bidding to take control of surplus churches.
A total solar eclipse has crossed Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain while the UK and Ireland have seen a deep partial eclipse — the most extensive across Britain since 1999. Scientists and agencies such as NASA have flown instruments and balloons into the path of totality to study the Sun's corona and to gather data for improving space‑weather forecasts.
Patterson has begun appeal against convictions for murdering three relatives and attempting to murder another after a lunch at her rural Leongatha home in July 2023. Prosecutors argue the 33-year non-parole period is manifestly inadequate and should be longer or that parole should be ruled out. The appeals touch on trial conduct, evidence and sentencing, with judges reserving decisions.
The Clarence, a neighbourhood bar and restaurant in Glasgow’s west end, has opened in January 2025 after transforming from Shucks and Nick’s Italian. It now pairs a refined dining menu with a lively bar scene, offering seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a popular roasts on Sundays, drawing steady crowds since opening.
A live review from The Scotsman captures a fiery performance by a jazz artist, highlighting rhythmic energy, strong solos and a flamboyant closing. The piece reflects the critic’s impression of a dynamic quartet and a memorable finish.
The BBC, Independent, and other outlets report on Scotland’s price-cap measures for essentials and public transport, amid fears from farmers that costs could ripple through to producers. Pilot schemes show rising bus ridership, but warn of unintended consequences as caps expand.
Archaeologists uncover a mastaba at Saqqara dating to Egypt’s Fifth Dynasty, built for Yunmen, a high-ranking official, and his father Ity. The site includes two chapels, painted reliefs, and a false door, with colors well-preserved after more than 4,000 years. The find supports ongoing efforts to boost Egypt’s tourism through new discoveries.
Auditor General reports ScotWind revenues have been drawn down to £96m with £507m expected by 2031; government promises transparency as developers’ long-term leases determine future income and public value.
A Fra Fee-led writer grapples with the legend of Liberace in a meta-stage piece at Pitlochry, where Simon Russell Beale’s Liberace and a flamboyant production set the tone. The show examines sexuality, lie and performance, while a longer Wallace musical and a new Play, Pie and Pint piece provide counterpoints on history and memory.