Toulmin Prize fourth commended story revealed

The Toulmin Prize is open to amateur writers over the age of 16. The stories entered should have a north east focus, and may be written in Doric or English, or a mixture of the two. This week, we’ll be posting one story a day, including the four commended stories and the overall winner of…

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Children’s author produces second edition of novel

An acclaimed Scottish children’s author has had to produce a second edition of her popular adventure story. It comes after releasing what is believed to be the first novel study pack specially tailored to Scotland’s current Curriculum for Excellence. Launched earlier in the year, the magical pack has already been officially adopted and endorsed by…

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Toulmin Prize commended stories revealed

This week, we’ll be posting one short story a day from this year’s Toulmin Prize competition. The Toulmin Prize is open to amateur writers over the age of 16. The stories entered have a north east focus, and can be written in Doric or English, or a mixture of the two. Throughout the course of…

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Saving Mackintosh classic house for the future

One of the finest examples of domestic architecture by architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh is now being saved for the future. The Glasgow publisher Walter Blackie commissioned Mackintosh to design the house in Helensburgh in 1902 and construction was completed in 1904. At a cost of £6,652, Mackintosh, along with his wife Margaret MacDonald, oversaw the…

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This is not just any supermarket listing…

An iconic Scottish brand is set to melt hearts across the country after securing a listing with Marks & Spencer. Luxury ice cream producer Mackie’s of Scotland has won listings in 80 of the upmarket supermarket stores across the country in a deal worth over £100,000 per annum to the family-run business. Adding to M&S’s…

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Scotland’s Banksy reveals his true identity

The Stonehaven mystery sculptor – dubbed the Stoney Banksy – has come forward to confirm his identity. Jim Malcolm (68) revealed his identity on the TV series Loop on BBC Scotland. His sculptural creations made of scrap metal have been popping up around Stonehaven for about 15 years, but the sculptor’s work hit the headlines…

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Nothing to grouse about when saving rare species

Exemplary countryside management at the Glenlivet Estate means declining species, such as the black grouse, are thriving. As dawn crept into my room in Tomintoul, a blackbird proclaimed it was time to rise even if the ice lacing the window indicated that winter still had a grip. Tomintoul is the highest village in the Highlands…

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Five top tips for gardening kicks this spring

Spring to a gardener is like all your birthdays come at once, there’s so much anticipation and there’s lots to see, smell, touch and even taste. The idea of having an engaging outside space is to enjoy it, so here are some tricks of the trade to give you a head start on how to…

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Delightful details are perfect for luxury seclusion

With beautiful timber features throughout, Pitlowie Cottage’s location in the heart of ‘Big Tree Country’ could not be more apt. Presented for sale by Bell Ingram, this truly unique property enjoys a secluded setting near Pitroddie at the foot of the Sidlaw Hills midway between Perth and Dundee. Comprising four public areas, five bedrooms (two…

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A tremendous chance to develop in the country

A large site with derelict farmhouse and outbuildings, holding full planning consent for demolition, re-build and erection of an extended dwellinghouse and car port is now for sale. Gordonston is presented for sale by Galbraith, and is located at St Johns Town Of Dalry, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway. Gordonston is situated in a peaceful…

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