Plans to restrict use of lead shot at wetlands

The continued use of lead shot in the UK is now at a tipping-point. This comes after the publication of the European Chemicals Agency’s (ECHA) proposals to further restrict shooting on or over wetlands. The inclusion of ‘peatland’ within the restriction and the ban on possessing lead shot when on a wetland are the two…

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Stress isn’t just for humans – it affects dogs too

We all experience stress and anxiety at certain stages of our life – but not everyone appreciates that our dogs are just as vulnerable to the effects of it as we are. Our four-legged family members can’t express themselves by taking a time out, slamming a door or sitting down for a good chat with…

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Book review – The Walrus Mutterer

Green activist Mandy Haggith marks the beginning of her new Stone Stories trilogy with an adventurous novel taking the reader back to the Iron Age. Set in 320BC in Northern Britain, the book follows Rian, a young woman who is enslaved by a deceptive trader and forced on a perilous sea voyage in search of…

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Lady Frances: Frances Balfour, Aristocrat, Suffragist

Joan B Huffman provides a compelling and meticulously-researched insight into one of the highest-ranking members of the British aristocracy to assume a leadership role in the women’s suffrage movement. The book depicts in rich detail the life of Lady Frances Balfour, a little-known character who did a lot for British women. With detailed accounts of…

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Cash is not king – how inflation erodes your savings

There’s something reassuring about money in the bank. It’s easily accessible; stowed away  in a trusted institution; and, when you make a withdrawal, it’s tangible. No wonder then that in times of uncertainty people tend to favour cash, believing it will protect their savings. By contrast, investors often only feel comfortable investing in stocks, shares, and funds when…

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Scottish vet stars in new show as she helps sick pets

A Scottish vet is currently starring in a brand new TV series, showcasing the amazing lifesaving work of vet charity PDSA. Anne Robinson, originally from Motherwell, features in the fascinating new series on Channel 4, called The People’s Vet, where cameras spent six months behind the scenes at two of the charity’s busy Pet Hospitals…

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Fringe Festival review – The House

Do yourself a favour on this last day of The Fringe and go to the funniest thing I have seen all Festival. Four thoroughly professional actors portray the peculiarly intimate relationship between a house and its owners. As the Redmonds hand over the keys for their beloved house and should be moving onto their downsized…

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Give your cuddly toy a day out and win a prize

Everyone has a favourite cuddly toy – some of us grown-ups have had ours for decades, while children all have their own one of choice. And now your cuddly chum could help you win a fantastic prize, with Almond Valley’s Softie September. If you post of photo of your soft toy enjoying a day at…

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Death threats and abuse for country sports enthusiasts

Nearly two-thirds of country sports enthusiasts have received online bullying or harassment, according to a new Countryside Alliance survey. Extreme examples include poeple being threatened with death, had their addresses, pictures and car registration plates shared online, and had bad business reviews. As a result, the Alliance has become increasingly concerned over the last couple…

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Book festival authors put in the picture

Between the Lines – Portraits of Authors is a unique exhibition running during the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Since 2009 photographer Chris Close has completed a unique body of author portraits at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Described as a ‘live’ exhibition he photographs on site in Charlotte Square Gardens and the work is hung…

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