Dracula and his Scottish links are revealed

DRACULA and his links to Scotland are being marked tonight. Bram Stoker’s novel is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Stoker began writing Dracula while staying at the Kilmarnock Arms Hotel in Cruden Bay, with his signatures from its guestbook in 1894 and 1895 surviving to this day. Aberdeeshire Council is hosting a civic reception…

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Scots continue to support Ukrainians

PEOPLE throughout Scotland are continuing to support Ukrainians fleeing from Russia’s invasion. A “foodie raffle” organised by chocolatier Sebastian Kobelt is coming to a close this week. Kobelt is raising money for the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukrainian Humanitarian Appeal. He said: “The raffle is due to be drawn this Friday 27 May, so there…

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Sew Confident expands with Glasgow studio

MORE Glaswegians will be learning how to sew after Sew Confident opened a studio and shop on Great Western Road. Jenny Drew founded her business ten years ago, opening franchises in Dundee in 2018 and Chorley in 2019. Together, the branches have taught more than 10,000 people to crochet, embroider, knit, quilt, and sew. Drew…

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Perth Show chairman aims for third time lucky

PERTH Show chairman Mark Mitchell hopes it’ll be a case of “third time lucky” when he hosts this summer’s event. Mitchell was chairman during 2020, but his show was cancelled due to the pandemic. His chairmanship continued into last year, but again the event couldn’t be held in-person. Now Mitchell is looking forward to welcoming…

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World Otter Day marked by Skye hotels

THREE Skye hotels are marking today’s World Otter Day by pledging their support to the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF), which is based on the island. Guests at Duisdale, Skeabost, and Skeabost – which are run by the Sonas Hotel Collection – will be able to buy otter soft toys made from recycled plastic bottles.…

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‘Trimathon’ to help farmers find support

A “TRIMATHON” will be held at next week’s Scotsheep show to promote the support available to farmers. Campbell Ewen, “The Kilted Barber” from Perth, will be wielding his scissors and clippers to give shaggy farmers and shepherds a post-lambing trim. Ewen’s is offering his services for free, but is accepting donations towards the Royal Scottish…

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Tweed Foundation launches auction

THE Tweed Foundation has opened its online auction, with prizes including salmon fishing, luxury hampers, and works of art, and a rally driving lesson. Almost 50 lots have been donated for the auction, which runs until 5pm on 10 June. The charity, which is based in Drygrange, protects and improves fish stocks in the River…

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Female surgeons celebrated with jewellery

THE Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh has worked with jeweller Hamilton & Inches to celebrate its female surgeons. The Edinburgh jeweller has created a range of earrings, necklaces, and a pin brooch that will go on sale at the college’s campus on the capital’s Nicolson Street and on its website. Hamilton & Inches has…

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Inverness Castle: sneak peek at designs

THE £30 million redevelopment of Inverness Castle has taken a step forward with the release of initial concept designs for its south tower and gardens. The project aims to turn the former court and prison into a tourist attraction. Mather & Co, the Cheshire-based firm designing the exhibitions, said the castle would use the latest…

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Glengoulandie estate near Schiehallion up for sale

GLENGOULANDIE forestry estate near Aberfeldy has gone on the market for offers over £5,850,000. The estate – in a “beautiful and highly sought-after location” – includes young confers, mixed broadleaves, and open hillsides. Two three-bedroom cottages – one modern, one traditional – and a farm building or workshop are also included in the sale. The…

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