Courier Living

Tay Landscape Partnership seeks river views

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:50:00 +0100

Computer-savvy landscape lovers have been urged to get involved in a survey on the future of the River Tay.

Abertay University student's system uses digital networks to plot real-world disasters

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:28:00 +0100

The way emergency crews search for missing people following a natural disaster could be revolutionised by the work of a Dundee student.

Dundee Rep's Further than the Furthest Thing leads CATS nominations

Fri, 11 May 2012 12:17:00 +0100

Dundee Rep's prominence in Scottish theatre has been cemented by receiving five nominations in this year's critics' awards.

'Stopping it will be the most difficult thing' — Scots company's crucial role in Bloodhound SSC 1,000mph attempt

Sat, 05 May 2012 11:04:00 +0100

A Scottish company will make the wheels for the British world land speed record attempt car, Bloodhound SSC.

Future of red squirrels in jeopardy as killer virus spreads north

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 10:39:00 +0100

Fife and Tayside's dwindling red squirrel population is in danger of being wiped out by a virus, experts have warned.

Glenshee Ski Centre reflects on 'half a season'

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:22:00 +0100

Bosses at one of Scotland's top ski centres say they have enjoyed a reasonable season despite festive sunshine and a March heatwave.

Dee-Con 2012 anime, art and games convention draws colourful crowds

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:45:00 +0100

Around 1,500 fans of anime, comics and video games turned out to support one of Scotland's biggest animation celebrations on Saturday.

Dundee's Dundead horror festival resurrected

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:09:00 +0100

Dundee's horror film festival is back with a vengeance and it looks set to be another treat for fans of the genre.

Dundee University graduate Johanna Basford helping to redesign flagship Starbucks branch

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:07:00 +0100

A Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art graduate has been drafted in to redesign Starbucks' flagship London branch.

ADVERTISING FEATURE: Bank of Scotland has a range of options to help you make the most of your ISA allowance

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:01:00 +0100

When you're putting money away for something, be it a fairytale wedding, a dream holiday or just a little safety net for the future, you want your hard-earned savings to really work for you. And if circumstances change it's good to know that you can access your money quickly, whenever you need to.

Dundee developers welcome Budget boost for video games industry

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:40:00 +0000

Leading figures in Dundee's digital games industry reacted with delight after the Chancellor unexpectedly announced new tax reliefs for the sector.

The light fantastic — the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 12:49:00 +0000

This is not a car for people who don't like attention. It's not a car for people who do like comfort. And it's certainly not a car for people who don't earn telephone number salaries.

James McIntosh Patrick painting fails to achieve reserve price

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 12:57:00 +0000

The recession has reached the work of Dundee's finest artist James McIntosh Patrick, with one of his original watercolours failing to reach its reserve price at auction in the city this week.

Scottish favourites The Proclaimers line up Perth date

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 08:47:00 +0000

Craig and Charlie Reid, aka The Proclaimers, will be playing Perth Concert Hall in November.

Lambing season warning for dog owners

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:06:00 +0000

Dog owners have been warned to keep their pets under control in the countryside as the lambing season gets under way.

Snow Patrol named as T in the Park's Friday night headliners

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:17:00 +0000

Snow Patrol have been announced as headliners for this year's T in the Park at Balado in July.

'He gave everything to the local theatre' — emotional tributes to late actor Martyn James

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:29:00 +0000

Leading names in British theatre came together in Highland Perthshire to celebrate the life of the late Martyn James, filling every seat at Pitlochry Festival Theatre.

Crieff software firm Dogfi.sh Mobile has eye on London skyline

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:19:00 +0000

A small Crieff-based software firm has created interactive software for the London Eye that will be seen by four million people a year.

Dundee Rep losing 'inspirational leader' James Brining

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:37:00 +0000

Dundee Rep is to lose its chief executive and artistic director James Brining.

Save pounds with beezerdeals.com!

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:01:00 +0000

Introducing DC Thomson's exciting new daily deals service — beezerdeals.com!

Arbroath dad says new Kibooku site offers safe social networking for children

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:17:00 +0000

An Angus dad has set up his own social networking site for youngsters after becoming so worried his children could become victims of cyber-bullying and paedophiles.

Warm welcome for Viking invaders

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:56:00 +0000

A colourful band of Viking invaders have been spotted in Perth and Kinross this week.

Scottish Wildlife Trust counting down the days until Lady's return

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:12:00 +0000

There may still be eight weeks to go, but excitement is already mounting for the imminent return of Scotland's most famous osprey.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre planning tribute to actor Martyn James

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:21:00 +0000

Theatregoers will gather in Pitlochry this month to pay tribute to one of Scotland's best-loved actors.

Planners urged to stop 'industrialisation' of the hills

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:49:00 +0000

A call has been made for an immediate moratorium on windfarms in the Ochil hills due to the ''cavalier, duplicitous and philistine'' approach of major power firms towards the area.

Angus takes lead on plans for 100-mile Pictish Trail

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:21:00 +0000

Ambitious proposals are being developed to create a 100-mile Pictish Trail across Scotland.

Dundee International Book Prize launches search for next winning author

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 09:51:00 +0000

The search for Scotland's next literary giant was launched on Burns Day in Dundee.

January offers chance to cash in on a quiet used car market

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:18:00 +0000

The recession has hit car sales hard. Our motoring editor looks at the opportunities for a bargain in 2012.

Anderson, McGinty, Webster, Ward and Fisher get together at Gardyne Theatre

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:47:00 +0000

Less than a year after forming, five supremely talented but completely diverse musicians named Anderson, McGinty, Webster, Ward and Fisher are set to release their debut album.

Web winners — Blair Atholl Scout Jamborette wins a digital makeover

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:08:00 +0000

One of the biggest events on the Scouting calendar has finally been given a website worthy of its exciting reputation.

Review: Kia Optima

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:28:00 +0000

Kia has really pulled its socks up in recent years and now, under former Audi design chief Peter Schreyer, they're producing some of the best looking cars around.

Coming in your new compact Courier — Scot Tares' cycling column

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:23:00 +0000

With The Courier's switch to a new compact format comes a wealth of new content and features.

Dundee MSP to lead new video games group at Scottish Parliament

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:38:00 +0000

A cross-party Scottish Parliament group on the video games industry will hold its first meeting in March.

The 80s are back! — Rewind Festival returning to Scone Palace in July

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:37:00 +0000

It's time to dust down your skintight dayglo lycra costumes, big shoulder pads and curly wigs — the Rewind Festival will return to Scone Palace in July.

Fife poet John Burnside wins TS Eliot Prize

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:57:00 +0000

A Fife author has won one of literature's most controversial prizes to date.

Skiers' hopes of another extended season suffer an early blow

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:40:00 +0000

The promise of an early ski season in Glen Shee has been literally stripped away by high winds.

New Year's Day Dookers part of a long tradition

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 15:12:00 +0000

Hundreds of people will brave the elements to take part in the New Year's Dook at Broughty Ferry, an event that's been run by Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association since 1889. The club features in a new book about outdoor bathing. Jack McKeown found out more about the story of swimming.

Bumper year at Loch Leven national nature reserve

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:14:00 +0000

Wildlife experts have witnessed an explosion in bird and animal numbers at the Loch Leven national nature reserve.

Jim Crumley looks for the roots of our history in The Great Wood

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:14:00 +0000

Nature writer, poet and columnist Jim Crumley's new book The Great Wood explores the past, present and future of Scotland's forests.

The Law hope 2012 will Trigger further success

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:13:00 +0000

Unless you won the lottery or the pools, or had a good run on the horses, 2011 has been an "annus horribilis" for most of us, so spare a thought for Dundee band The Law.

Review: Focus Estate has bags of space

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 08:52:00 +0000

Ford's Focus is Scotland's third-best selling car (the Corsa and Fiesta are No. 1 and No. 2, since you ask) and with good reason — the latest version is terrific.

The View are Underneath The Lights again

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:24:17 +0000

They said they would have a party and The View did not let anybody down.

High hopes Scots will be sloping off

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:18:46 +0000

Despite an unusually mild start to winter, bosses at one of Scotland's top ski centres are still hopeful of a successful season.

Too good to be true online deals warning

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:57:00 +0000

Shoppers have been warned to beware online deals that seem too good to be true.

Mini-maestro Lachlan steals show on Caird Hall debut

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:56:00 +0000

Not many people get the chance to conduct an orchestra, but thanks to The Courier one little boy did.

Rural 'rip-off' charges warning as online Christmas shopping peaks

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:51:21 +0000

Thousands of people in rural Scotland are being charged 'rip-off' prices for delivery when they buy goods online, according to research from Citizens Advice Scotland.

Review: Seat Alhambra

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 14:38:00 +0000

The majority of cars that advertise themselves as seven seaters should really be billed as seating two large adults, three small adults and two children. Rarely do I come across one where I'd like to spend more than a couple of minutes in the third-row seats.

Extra 10,000 music fans invited to enjoy T in the Park

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:56:00 +0000

An extra 10,000 music fans will be able to enjoy next year's T in the Park, councillors have agreed.

Review: Renault Grand Scenic

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:26:00 +0000

Way back in the 1980s, Renault began the trend for people carriers with the Espace; 25 years on, their MPVs remain among the most popular in a now crowded market.

Brightsolid data centre handles huge demand for British Newspaper Archive site

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:22:00 +0000

An online historical newspaper archive hosted by Dundee digital publishing company brightsolid saw more than a million searches carried out in its first day in operation.

Back with a bang — Local heroes The Proclaimers to headline Big Tent festival

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 09:48:00 +0000

Fife's finest The Proclaimers are set to headline the Big Tent festival next year.

UPDATE: The View add a second Dundee Christmas date

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

The View are to play a second Christmas show at Fat Sam's after tickets for their first night on Wednesday December 21 all but sold out.

Increase in breakdowns caused by rodent damage

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:27:00 +0000

Repair garages in Angus are reportedly having to deal with a spike in the number of rodent-related breakdowns.

Winter-themed James McIntosh Patrick paintings up for auction

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:55:00 +0000

An evocative painting of a typically Scottish winter scene by James McIntosh Patrick is for sale at Bonhams in Edinburgh on Thursday.

Graduates' dreams come true in Dundee Rep's Cinderella

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 18:33:00 +0000

Every year, the Rep Theatre in Dundee takes on two graduates, giving them the chance to work with the ensemble for a year and gain valuable experience. Jennifer Cosgrove meets this year's actors, who are starring in the Christmas show.

Friends of the Ochils takes stand against 'industrialisation' of Scotland's hills

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:20:00 +0000

An environmental group says it is ''incensed'' at plans to build more wind turbines in the Ochil hills.

'We should listen to the true political message' — our Christmas traditions questioned

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:47:00 +0000

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me — a particular political conscience but no presents as far as I can see?

River Tay salmon beat attracts seven-figure price

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:18:00 +0000

A River Tay fishing beat has been sold for over £1 million.

'I'm quite proud' — major award for quiet man of music PR Murray Chalmers

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 11:20:00 +0000

Former Harris Academy pupil Murray Chalmers left Dundee in 1978 for a new life in London, which meant living in a squat and performing menial tasks at his first job.

Review: Kia Picanto

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 10:48:00 +0000

This is the Picanto, Kia's popular little city car. Though it was facelifted in 2008, this is the first fully new model since it was launched in 2004. The old car wasn't at all bad, but this one is much better.

Red squirrels in rude health at Loch of the Lowes reserve

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 10:30:00 +0000

A concerted effort to save one of Scotland's best-loved native species appears to be bearing fruit.

Visitors of many kinds make for a varied year on Isle of May

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 07:53:00 +0000

Visitors — of the furred, feathered and human kind — have flocked to the Isle of May this year.

Dundee Mountain Film Festival hits new heights

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:49:00 +0000

A record number of people attended the 29th Dundee Mountain Film Festival in the Bonar Hall over the weekend.

Review: Vauxhall Corsa VXR Nurburgring

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 12:12:00 +0000

I'm flying along the tarmac in the Corsa VXR Nurburgring, my foot to the floor. I whip through a double bend, using both sides of the road and skidding slightly before regaining control. Then it's a race up through the gears again until the needle says I'm doing 100mph and it's time to brake for the next corner.

Tiger Games muscles in on worldwide hit with Superman for iPhone and iPad

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 11:23:00 +0000

An independent Dundee games studio is at the centre of a global hit after reinventing the Superman franchise.

Everest great Peter Habeler at Dundee Mountain Film Festival

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:22:00 +0000

Along with Reinhold Messner, Austrian climber Peter Habeler was the first man to summit Everest without oxygen — a feat few thought possible. Ahead of his appearance at the Dundee Mountain Film Festival on Saturday, Jack McKeown catches up with the great mountaineer — who is still climbing as he approaches his 70th birthday.

Abertay University a major player in new £100,000 games development competition

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 09:53:00 +0000

Abertay University will enhance its profile in the digital media industry today at the launch of a new £100,000 games development competition.

Dundee Jazz Festival welcomes Martin Taylor to 'music city'

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:42:00 +0000

Jazz guitar legend Martin Taylor has praised the recently-refurbished Gardyne Theatre, describing it as a ''wonderful place to play.''

Digital Dan and Dennis — Dandy and Beano comics hit the App Store

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 10:17:00 +0000

Desperate Dan and Dennis the Menace have entered the digital age — more than three years after celebrating their 70th birthdays.

Quarrel word game spells Scottish BAFTA success for Denki

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:49:00 +0000

Dundee games company Denki's latest game has won a Scottish BAFTA.

Range Rover remains in a class of its own

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 10:57:00 +0000

With the blanket coverage of the stunning, Scottish Car of the Year Award-winning, Evoque, Land Rover are clearly concerned people will forget they make any other cars.

New Scottish Conservative leader backs games tax calls

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 07:35:00 +0000

The new leader of the Scottish Conservatives has backed plans to introduce tax relief to support the games industry.

Waterstone's launch for Take It To The Bridge

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:05:00 +0000

If you haven't already got your copy, tonight's the chance to pick up the definitive guide to the Dundee music scene.

Barbara Dymock shortlisted for Scottish Traditional Music Award

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 11:20:00 +0000

Folk singer Barbara Dymock has been nominated Scots singer of the year in this year's Scottish Traditional Music Awards.

Digital Dundee on show at NEoN 2011

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 09:40:00 +0000

It's bright, it's exciting, it's innovative and it's in Dundee for a whole week. Jennifer Cosgrove looks at NEoN, Scotland's only digital arts festival.

Review: Ford Mondeo 1.6 EcoBoost Titanium X

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 08:53:00 +0000

The Ford Mondeo is starting to grow a little elderly.

Review: King Creosote, at Dundee Doghouse

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:34:00 +0000

North Fife's own Kenny Anderson brought a surprisingly muscular set of songs to the Doghouse in Dundee on Thursday.

King Creosote comes to The Doghouse

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:16:00 +0000

Ahead of his concert tonight at The Doghouse, King Creosote tells Rocktalk of his "surreal" night at the Mercury Prize awards.

Book closes on another Dundee Literary Festival

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:35:00 +0000

The fifth Dundee Literary Festival closed on Sunday after another successful programme of events.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Play a part in panto!

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we bring you a real family special. Oh yes we do!

Dublin author Simon Ashe-Browne wins Dundee International Book Prize

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:49:00 +0100

A 26-year-old writer from Dublin has been named winner of the 2011 Dundee International Book Prize.

Salmond shows support for video games industry funding

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 09:38:00 +0100

Dundee's video games industry could be in line for vital Scottish Government help.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Professional football coaching for your team

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today is your chance to have a top Scottish football coach for your team!

Busy day ahead at Dundee Literary Festival

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 07:36:00 +0100

Dundee Literary Festival has a packed programme at the Bonar Hall today.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Your family history traced

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Ever wondered who your ancestors were and where your family comes from? Have you even started looking, but got stuck?

Money Can't Buy prizes — Edit The Courier!

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's Money Can't Buy prize is one for all school kids in Courier Country — the winning youngster, four classmates and their teacher will be invited to edit The Courier for a day and design a front page for their own school newspaper!

Money Can't Buy prizes — A VIP whisky experience

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's fantastic Money Can't Buy prize gives you and a friend the chance join Courier whisky writer Brian Townsend on a VIP tour of Glencadam Distillery in Brechin.

Review: Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off (Dundee Rep)

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:02:00 +0100

''Scotland, whit like is it?'' It's almost 25 years since Liz Lochhead first asked this question in her now classic play Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off, and we're probably no better placed to answer it.

Dundee games developer backs calls for a Scottish creative content fund

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:35:00 +0100

The head of a Dundee video games firm has backed a call for a fund to be set up to aid the industry.

Canoeists of all ages gather in Perthshire for Tay Descent

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:45:00 +0100

Around 400 people braved the cold waters of the River Tay at the weekend to take part in an event that may become an annual feature.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Learn curling with a world champion

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:17:00 +0100

How do you fancy being taught to curl by one of the best there is — Junior World Champion and Courier columnist Eve Muirhead.

Country's toughest runners heading to Perthshire for the Original Mountain Marathon

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:39:00 +0100

One of the world's toughest mountain marathon events is returning to Perthshire for the first time in 11 years.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Going, going, gone!

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we give you the chance to experience the buzz of the auction trade and become an auctioneer for the day.

DF Concerts stay tight-lipped on rumours of Stone Roses headlining T in the Park 2012

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:54:00 +0100

The Stone Roses to headline T in the Park 2012? Scottish punters have already started the speculation after the Manchester heroes announced a reconciliation and reformation on Wednesday.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Conduct the RSNO

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's unique offering is a fantastic family prize aimed at any child who loves music and Christmas.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Broadcast to the Kingdom

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's incredible Money Can't Buy prize gives you the chance to join Kingdom FM and become a broadcasting legend.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Game on with Jim Leishman

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we bring you a full VIP match experience at East End Park, home of Dunfermline Athletic.

Falls of Bruar accidents increase pressure for canyoning regulations

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:17:00 +0100

New rules could soon be introduced to license canyoning guides after two women suffered spinal injuries while taking part in the sport in Highland Perthshire.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Movie magic, just for you!

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we are offering a red-carpet experience for all film buffs.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Play our Trump card!

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 09:45:00 +0100

If your sport of choice is golf, then today's once-in-a-lifetime prize is the one for you.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Come dine with us!

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we give you the unique opportunity to win a home visit by The Courier's gardening expert John Stoa!

Nethergate Writers launch new writing anthology

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:12:00 +0100

A group of local writers have launched an anthology of stories and poems, each inspired by an exhibit at The McManus in Dundee.

Relief and maybe some regret as Blackberry services resume

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:58:00 +0100

Blackberry users are fully online again after three days of disruption.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Come dine with us!

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Ever dreamed of treating family and friends to a sumptuous Indian banquet in your own home? Well you dream and we deliver.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Play a part in panto!

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we bring you a real family special. Oh yes we do!

Composer Rory Boyle on the John Armitage JAM and new Scottish music

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:01:00 +0100

The JAM collective, formed in memory of musician John Armitage, is following last year's sell-out concerts with performances in St Andrews, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Helen Brown spoke to composer Rory Boyle about the piece he wrote for the concerts and the flowering of new music in Scotland.

Money Can't Buy prizes — You're on our wavelength!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's incredible Money Can't Buy prize gives you the chance to become a broadcaster for the day.

Why Not? Author Shari Low on chasing the dream

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:40:00 +0100

It took Shari Low until she was 30 to realise her ambition and put pen to paper. Nine books later, she talks about friends, family life and finding her inner author.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Star in The Beano!

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

How would you like to star in Britain's best-loved comic? Well now is your chance!

Everest adventurer Doug Scott to give lecture

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:50:00 +0100

Climber and explorer Doug Scott will take part in a fund-raising lecture at Kirkcaldy's Adam Smith Theatre on Sunday, October 30.

MacLean's 'nerves and excitement' as Perthshire Amber draws near

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:46:00 +0100

Perthshire music star Dougie MacLean is anticipating the best Perthshire Amber Festival in its history.

Mother-daughter pairing tour new play Baby Baby

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:40:00 +0100

Dundee Rep's new play is a collaboration between a mother and a daughter on the subject of teenage pregnancy. Jennifer Cosgrove spoke to associate director Jemima Levick and her mother Vivian French about Baby Baby, which will tour communities across the city.

King Creosote kicks off Cupar Arts Festival

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:19:00 +0100

Mercury Prize nominee King Creosote kicked off this year's Cupar Arts Festival with an entertaining set on Saturday evening.

First plays at new home for Perth Drama Club

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 10:59:00 +0100

Perth Drama Club's nomadic existence has come to an end after finding a permanent home at Perth College UHI's Goodlyburn Theatre.

Money Can't Buy prizes — SPL coaching for your team!

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today is your chance to have a top SPL football coach for your team!

Cycle path work is another link in the chain

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:39:00 +0100

The final part of a cycle route linking Dunfermline, Alloa and Stirling is now in place.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Be a news photographer for a day!

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's Money Can't Buy prize gives you the chance to team up with a Courier photographer and cover a morning's news events before taking time out for lunch.

Council chief sees big potential in social media

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:41:00 +0100

Angus Council's chief executive believes social media can play a big part in getting information to the public.

iSkint! — seven-year-old runs up £350 bill playing 'free' iPhone games

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:59:00 +0100

"Dad. Can I play on your iPhone?" It's a request many of us have become familiar with as our phones have evolved to become mini games machines so tempting to little fingers.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Be first down the flumes!

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's Money Can't Buy prize celebrates the opening of the new swimming and leisure centre in Dundee in 2012.

TIGA report finds UK games firms hampered by incentives offered abroad

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:35:00 +0100

Subsidies offered to overseas computer games developers remain a main barrier to growth in the UK industry, a survey has revealed.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Calling all budding politicians!

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today's Money Can't Buy prize is a fantastic behind-the-scenes tour of the seat of Scottish politics, accompanied by our political editor.

International feel to Dundee College dance students' Precipices show

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:15:00 +0100

An evening of dance presented by Dundee College students at The Space will have an international feel.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Plough your field of dreams!

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Have you ever been out driving in the country and seen a farmer ploughing a field and thought: "I can do that!"? Well now's your chance to find out, with today's Money Can't Buy prize!

New report strengthens case for tax relief for video games firms

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:51:00 +0100

Tax breaks for video games firms lead to new jobs and increased profitability, a major new study has found.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Stand at the top of the Forth Road Bridge!

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Today we bring a unique opportunity for you and a friend to have your photo taken at the top of the iconic Forth Road Bridge.

Money Can't Buy prizes — Cook up a storm at The Gleneagles Hotel

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:01:00 +0100

Our first Money Can't Buy prize offers you and a friend the opportunity to experience the pressure of a busy kitchen service in the area's top hotel — Gleneagles.

Big names among the line-up for Dundee Literary Festival

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 11:37:00 +0100

Bestselling author Victoria Hislop is to make a rare public appearance at the Dundee Literary Festival.

University researchers harnessing online chat to improve artificial speech technologies

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 10:41:00 +0100

Experts at St Andrews University believe social media could transform the lives of people unable to talk.

Check, Clean, Dry — campaign launched in bid to prevent spread of 'killer shrimp'

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 08:27:00 +0100

The Scottish Government has launched a bid to protect Scotland's waterways from devastation by non-native species.

At last! — sun comes out to remind us what summer feels like

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:41:00 +0100

The Scottish summer has made a belated appearance, with most of the country enjoying a second day of glorious sunshine.

'I am positive they are there' — expert no longer has any doubts about big cats in Scotland

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:41:00 +0100

A big cat expert says he is in no doubt large puma-like cats are roaming Angus.

Holiday parks are plugged into the demands of the modern camper

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:55:00 +0100

Caravan sites across Tayside and Fife are reaping the rewards of giving the ''glampers'' what they want.

Review: Dick Gaughan, at Dundee Rep

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 20:49:00 +0100

History and music were the subjects Dick Gaughan's teachers told him he could never handle.

Money Can't Buy prizes: Terms & Conditions

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 10:56:00 +0100

Woodland Trust Scotland picks out Perthshire woods for days of gold

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:20:00 +0100

A pair of Perthshire woods have been named among the best in Scotland as the country looks forward to a ''fake autumn''.

Snail sighting has conservationists rushing to check the record books

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 08:08:00 +0100

They've moved at, well, a snail's pace really.

RSPB Scotland warns bird poisonings likely to be worse than even its own figures suggest

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 15:18:00 +0100

Twenty-nine cases of deliberate bird poisoning confirmed last year may just be the tip of the iceberg, RSPB Scotland has warned.

Review: Lexus CT200h

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 14:35:00 +0100

The CT200h takes Lexus — the luxury arm of Toyota — into new territory.

Sir Brian Souter suspends campaign after Google restores website listing

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 13:28:00 +0100

Perth transport tycoon Sir Brian Souter has suspended his campaign against Google after his official website was reinstated to the search engine's listings.

Dundee College lecturer Angus McEwan has a brush with Cuba

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 09:55:00 +0100

A Dundee College lecturer has unveiled an art exhibition that opens a door on one the most politically isolated states in the world — Cuba.

James McIntosh Patrick works come up for auction in Dundee

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:29:00 +0100

A selection of work by one of Dundee's most celebrated artists goes to auction this week.

Sir Brian Souter searching for website answers from Google

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:03:00 +0100

Perth businessman Sir Brian Souter is taking on the might of Google to find out why his personal website has been removed from its search engine.

Doorways in Drumorty shines light on the incredible life of Lorna Moon

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 20:44:00 +0100

A book by an Aberdeenshire novelist whose work was once banned in her home town is about to tour Scotland as a play. Jennifer Cosgrove caught up with playwright Mike Gibb to discuss the story of an extraordinary woman who moved to America and became a Hollywood scriptwriter.

Alfie Boe stars at BBC Proms from Dundee

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:50:00 +0100

British tenor Alfie Boe headlined the Scottish finale to this year's BBC Proms in Dundee on Saturday.

Ten in the running to win Dundee International Book Prize

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 12:49:00 +0100

One of Madonna's favourite artists, award-winning Adrian Wiszniewski, is among the 10 debut novelists in the running for this year's Dundee International Book Prize.

Ian Anderson bringing Thick as a Brick tour to Perth Concert Hall

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 11:48:00 +0100

Ian Anderson commemorates the 40th anniversary of Jethro Tull's groundbreaking album Thick as a Brick next year with a show at Perth Concert Hall.

Perth Theatre's Twelfth Night full of Celtic connections

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 09:47:00 +0100

Perth Theatre's new creative director Rachel O'Riordan has chosen 1920s Scotland as the setting for Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, the first full-scale production she has directed since taking up the post earlier this year.

Rock Choir searching for secret singing stars

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:50:00 +0100

Fans of ITV1 series The Choir That Rocks will now get a chance to try it out themselves at weekly rehearsals in Perth and Dundee.

Mercury Music Prize: late surge towards King Creosote

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:01:00 +0100

Crail musician Kenny Anderson has put the shivers up the bookies after the odds on him to win tonight's Barclaycard Mercury Music Prize tumbled.

Review: Futureproof, at Dundee Rep

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 15:23:00 +0100

Fresh from Edinburgh's Festival Fringe with a coveted Fringe First award, Futureproof runs at the Rep for a week.

Turner Prize nominee Martin Boyce sings praises of DCA

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 14:47:00 +0100

Dundee Contemporary Arts is the one of the greatest art institutes in Britain.

Crieff distillery considers making music festival a calendar fixture

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:12:00 +0100

The success of a one-off music festival has left bosses at one of Scotland's best-known distilleries musing on a repeat performance.

Edinburgh Tattoo performance an honour — and a surprise — for composer

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 12:21:00 +0100

Millions of people have heard a tune written by a Dundee pipe band leader.

'I'm about opening the door' — Rachel O'Riordan on putting Perth Theatre at heart of community

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 11:35:00 +0100

Just under a year since she was announced as the successor to Ian Grieve, Perth Theatre's new creative director Rachel O'Riordan has begun rehearsals for the first play of the new season — William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. Here she speaks about her vision to create an exciting new era for theatre in the Fair City.

Review: Quarrel DX by Denki (iPhone/iPad)

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 11:01:00 +0100

Developer Denki caps an exciting spell for the Dundee mobile app scene with the release of its long-awaited Quarrel word game.

Review: Jaguar XF SE 2.2 diesel

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 10:57:00 +0100

Jaguar have done the sensible thing and put a small(ish) diesel engine into their slick and stylish XF.

Fiona's new school is helping others follow their artistic dreams

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 08:10:00 +0100

With the V&A on the way and numerous arts spaces popping up across Dundee, the city's creative scene is flourishing. The latest addition to this is a new centre for music and arts run by local musician and teacher Fiona Bodman. Here she tells Jennifer Cosgrove how she overcame a debilitating condition to pursue her ambition.

Waracle scores a winner with 'Scotify' app for SFA

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 13:27:00 +0100

Scotland's star footballers have been given their first taste of the team's official new iOS application — developed by a Dundee firm.

Hollywood sweetheart wowing Stonehaven shoppers

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 18:57:00 +0100

A striking piece of eye candy is tempting visitors at a Stonehaven sweetie shop.

Review: Deus Ex Human Revolution (Xbox 360)

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:30:00 +0100

In a fractured America ruled by mega-corporations and government combines, Deus Ex: Human Revolution asks one question: What does it mean to be more than human?

VIDEO: Abertay University student takes gold in 2014 video game competition

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:13:00 +0100

A Dundee student has become the first winner in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Internet-savvy Perth church takes worship into the cloud

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:30:00 +0100

A Perth church has embraced the latest technology to reach out to the wider world.

Bob Servant continues to lead author Neil Forsyth into unexpected places

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:05:00 +0100

The fictional Dundee anti-hero Bob Servant was voiced by Hollywood actor Brian Cox in an acclaimed radio adaptation. In a special event this week, Bob was played by Greg McHugh, star of the BBC comedy Gary: Tank Commander. Broughty Ferry novelist Neil Forsyth tells Jack McKeown about a creation that has got out of control.

Whisky proving to be the water of life for black grouse

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 10:18:00 +0100

The fight against the decline of an endangered bird has been given a massive boost.

Review: Kia Rio

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 09:53:00 +0100

What a way Kia have come.

River Tay anglers put on alert for humpback salmon

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 08:55:00 +0100

Anglers on the River Tay have been urged to be vigilant after a foreign species of salmon was caught in another Scottish river.

Charles Monteith Walker and Pam McBride feature in new St Andrews exhibition

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 07:58:00 +0100

Two modern landscape painters have joined forces for a colourful exhibition in St Andrews.

Ricky Ross helps celebrate return of new-look Gardyne Theatre

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:07:00 +0100

The renovation of the Gardyne Theatre has been marked with a homecoming gig by Deacon Blue frontman Ricky Ross.

Authorities call for zero tolerance approach to wildlife poisoning

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:50:00 +0100

Tayside Police say deliberate animal poisonings should not be tolerated in modern society.

'Cheer up' — Scottish Government criticised for reaction to broadband cash

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:05:00 +0100

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore has urged the Scottish Government to "cheer up" after a UK funding allocation for rural broadband was described as disappointing.

Review: Mercedes C220 CDi Saloon

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 14:55:00 +0100

A wee whiley back I drove the estate version of the Mercedes C-Class, in 250 CDI format (review here). This time round it's the smaller-engined C220 CDI in saloon guise.

New book and CD celebrate music of 16th century Dunfermline Abbey monk

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 11:53:00 +0100

An early-modern monk will sing again after four centuries.

Dundee University conference looking at future of teaching

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 09:14:00 +0100

Lego robots, stress-reduction games and online X-rays of the week are just some of the ways students and teachers in Scotland and beyond are benefiting from computer technology.

Brian Cox shows support for troubled Whitehall Theatre

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:09:00 +0100

Hollywood star Brian Cox hopes the beleaguered Whitehall Theatre in Dundee can be saved.

Three-year trial to extend angling season on part of the River Tay

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 15:21:00 +0100

Anglers on the Tay will enjoy an extended season this year with the start of a three-year trial.

Dare ProtoPlay's move to Dundee is a record-breaking success

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:50:00 +0100

Dundee's love affair with the computer games industry was further underlined at the weekend when 9000 people attended a games conference at Caird Hall.

Advertising feature: Helping you make the right financial choice

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 07:49:00 +0100

You've reached the end of your mortgage deal, but is it time to ride the interest rate rollercoaster, or make the budget choice and remortgage to a fixed rate?

Dundee University graduate joins forces with rector Brian Cox on homelessness project

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 18:58:00 +0100

A Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design graduate has teamed up with actor Brian Cox to make a series of films raising awareness of the plight of homeless people.

Munro crossed off bagging list after being reclassified

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 18:09:00 +0100

Scotland's tally of Munros could drop by one to 282, following the release of new satellite data.

Edinburgh Fringe: Scene Of Titans

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 17:32:00 +0100

An inspirational play written by a St Andrews University student about Northern Ireland's first gay rugby team has debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Edinburgh Fringe: Tom Stade: What Year Was That?

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 16:21:00 +0100

Tom Stade co-wrote Frankie Boyle's TV show Tramadol Nights, and the Canadian's comedy kinship with the controversy-creating Scottish funnyman shows.

Edinburgh Fringe: Dave Gorman's PowerPoint Presentation

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 14:49:00 +0100

Dave Gorman first came to my attention many years ago when he was putting together Are You Dave Gorman?, which saw him fulfil a bet with then flatmate Danny Wallace that he could find and meet 54 other people with the same name as him. One of these was one time of Auchmuty High in Glenrothes, mine own former seat of learning.

Bittern sweet symphony as RSPB Scotland staff hear rare bird

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:45:00 +0100

The presence of a rare bird has been hailed as evidence of the success of a Tay conservation programme.

The Rep setting out to show that Dundee's Got Talent

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:10:00 +0100

Magicians, puppeteers and musicians are just some of the talented young people set to take centre stage at the Dundee Rep Theatre later this year.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Ginge, The Geordie And The Geek

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 12:07:00 +0100

It's good to see this three-piece sketch show selling out on a Monday afternoon, as the boys are inventive, funny and hard-working. They've been going since 2008 and this is their third run at the Fringe.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Adventures Of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 11:31:00 +0100

Given that there are 2500 shows being performed in Edinburgh on any given day this month, it's a rare thing indeed to find one that is truly original.

Dare ProtoPlay festival helps rest of the gaming world switch on to Dundee

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 10:34:45 +0100

This weekend Dundee is hosting Dare ProtoPlay, Scotland's biggest computer games festival. There are fun and games for all ages at the Caird Hall as well as an important insight into a switched-on city which has long been a hub of digital design technology. Jennifer Cosgrove found out more.

Gamers Dare not miss ProtoPlay festival

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:24:00 +0100

The countdown is on until the computer games festival Dare ProtoPlay boots up in Dundee.

Sex scandal minister Helen Douglas to tell her story

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:36:00 +0100

A former Angus minister who resigned in the wake of a sex scandal which rocked the Church of Scotland and her community will reveal a personal account of her life in print.

Review: BMW 1-Series

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 18:42:00 +0100

BMW's new 1-Series goes on sale on September 17 priced from £19,375.

Residents urged to help track area's swift population

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 18:08:00 +0100

Perth and Kinross residents are being asked to help to plot the movement of swifts currently raising chicks locally through a simple survey.

Former Harris Academy pupil wins Brazilian design competition

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 17:47:00 +0100

A former Harris Academy pupil, who now studies industrial design at university in Uruguay, has beaten off competition from more than 1000 people from 18 countries around the world to win a design competition in Brazil.

Roller derby world cup team is chosen after some tough try-outs

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 16:32:00 +0100

After four months of tough try-outs at venues across the country, the final team chosen to represent Scotland at the Roller Derby World Cup has been announced.

Maserati's new GranCabrio Sport has looks and power — for a price

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 16:01:00 +0100

Maserati's stunning drop top, the GranCabrio Sport, goes on sale in October with a price tag to match its looks — £102,615.

The View will play acoustic set at Scottish Beatles Weekend

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:26:00 +0100

The Scottish Beatles Weekend, which is being held in Dundee next week, has been boosted by the announcement that Dundee's own fab four — The View — are to play at the event.

Fringe comedians face a real tanking at Deep Sea World

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:04:00 +0100

Stand-up comedians are used to facing hostile audiences, but a group of daredevil comics faced the gig of their lives at Deep Sea World.

Review: Fiat 500

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:01:00 +0100

Some of the most stylish and characterful cars on sale right now are modern re-imaginings of old classics.

Lisbon: White city charms

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 14:48:00 +0100

Lisbon is an established favourite with holidaymakers, and Stewart Lloyd-Jones took a trip there to check out the Portuguese capital's delights.

Grand Scottish Prom returns to Glamis Castle with a bang — and is here to stay

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 14:01:00 +0100

Here to stay — that was the message from Glamis Castle as its administrator digested the successful weekend return of the Grand Scottish Prom and immediately set his sights on a 2012 weekend aimed at having even broader appeal to visitors from across the country.

Mazda Black Edition comes in any colour — unless it's black

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 12:59:00 +0100

Like the AMG Black Series, Mazda's Black Edition MX-5 and Mazda2 do not actually come in the colour black.

Dundee College art students preparing for their first exhibition

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100

A group of friends who met while on a course at Dundee College is making final preparations ahead of a first art exhibition.

Environmental success for Prince's Trust youngsters

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:41:00 +0100

A group of young people from Perth is celebrating after completing the Prince's Trust's Get Started in the Environment programme.

Pub landlords are sure not to grouse over new statue

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 10:02:00 +0100

Pub in Perth and St Andrews are featured in a replica statue of the Famous Grouse illustrated by artist Johanna Basford, who studied in Dundee.

Social network warning for social workers

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:03:00 +0100

Social work department staff have been warned their careers could be at risk if they misuse social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter.

American golf film has a unique take on the Kingdom

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:07:00 +0100

Divots have been taken out of an American film called Golf In The Kingdom for its below par portrayal of golf in Fife.

Sun, songs and silliness... Rewind Festival had the lot

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:22:00 +0100

Massive hair, outlandish costumes, garish dayglo underwear, silver suits, thousands of tanked up, happy people, a 92-year-old fan, a cross-dressing wedding couple and even a successful marriage proposal — the 80s Rewind Festival at Scone Palace had it all.

Music fans bask in sun and nostalgia at the Rewind '80s pop festival at Scone Palace

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:52:00 +0100

Basking in sunshine and a warm glow of nostalgia, music fans flocked to Perthshire at the weekend for the Rewind Festival.

Reliability Index survey finds Far Eastern cars more reliable

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:27:00 +0100

Japanese and Korean makes are the best bet for used car buyers who value reliability, according to new figures.

TV exposure beckons for actress and writer Lisa Nicoll

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 15:48:00 +0100

A play by an actress and writer from the Dundee area has been picked up by a film production company to be turned into a television drama.

Review: Porsche 911 Targa 4S

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 12:10:00 +0100

Porsche's 911 is now in its sixth generation and remains one of the most instantly recognisable cars in the world.

Lynda Radley explores the world of the freak show with Futureproof

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 11:01:00 +0100

Lynda Radley is something of a rising star in Scottish theatre. Originally from Cork in Ireland, the 31-year old has been in Scotland since 2005 and is building a successful career as a playwright.

Team of Dundee adventurers to search for a lost city of Incan gold

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 10:17:00 +0100

A team from Dundee is to embark on an expedition to the Amazon jungle next month to seek a legendary Incan city of gold.

Dundee University team driving up the Formula Student rankings

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:31:00 +0100

The drivers may dominate attention, but Formula One would not exist without the designers and engineers who build their cars.

Original John Lennon art to appear at the Scottish Beatles Weekend

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:33:00 +0100

The Scottish Beatles Weekend festival in Dundee has received another huge boost with the confirmation that The Art Of John Lennon, containing original work drawn by the man himself, is to be exhibited during the festival.

Southern Friend Festival has all the ingredients to be a barnstorming success

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 17:03:00 +0100

The Southern Fried Festival has been a hailed a resounding success, with over 4000 attendances at Perth's fourth annual celebration of American roots music.

Clean bill of health for beaches after Pettycur recovers from unexplained test failure

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:57:00 +0100

Bathers looking to take a cooling seaside dip this summer can do so safe in the knowledge that the water quality meets acceptable standards — despite an unexplained test failure in Fife last month.

Walkers stopped in their tracks by sight of black swans

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:18:00 +0100

A pair of black swans have been turning heads at the mouth of the Dighty in Monifieth.

Review: Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 19:27:00 +0100

This is the new Vauxhall Astra estate and it's much, much better than the car it replaced late last year — but then so is virtually all of the opposition, so how does it stack up next to the best of its rivals?

Jon Hoad causing a Sensation with prehistoric art

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 18:53:00 +0100

Perth artist Jon Hoad specialises in depicting prehistoric life, and his images of dinosaurs have been on display in museums and exhibitions across the world. He tells Jennifer Cosgrove more about what it's like to be a paleo-artist.

Dog owners asked to be careful around calves

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:38:00 +0100

Ramblers Scotland and Scottish Land and Estates have joined forces to ask dog walkers to take care around cows with calves, following a number of recent incidents where walkers have been injured.

Recording data on Montrose Bay's whales and dolphins

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0100

People in Angus have signed up to help record vital data about whales and dolphins in Montrose Bay.

Sinatra-loving jazz performer Todd Gordon has done it his way

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 11:22:00 +0100

Jazz singer Todd Gordon has met some big names in his time.

Peter Howson picks Eduardo Alessandro Studios for 'intimate' exhibition

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:37:00 +0100

A renowned artist is turning down the bright lights of London and New York to unveil his latest paintings and drawings in a Broughty Ferry studio.

The diamond is all his as King Creosote makes the Mercury Prize shortlist

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:34:00 +0100

The list includes Adele, PJ Harvey, Elbow, Tinie Tempah and... Kenny Anderson from Crail.

Rare chance to see Peto Collection photos during Scottish Beatles Weekend

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:15:00 +0100

Rarely-seen images of The Beatles will go on show in Dundee's Gallery Q next month to coincide with the Scottish Beatles Weekend held in the city.

Review: T in the Park 2011

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 18:25:00 +0100

Exactly a week ago, Balado near Kinross was packed with tens of thousands of fans enjoying Saturday night at T in the Park 2011. Having finally got rid of the last traces of mud, Courier Rocktalk writer Alan Wilson looks back and suggests that, despite some superb moments, it won't be remembered as a classic T.

Perth's Southern Fried Festival moves for late licence

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 16:59:00 +0100

The organisers of Scotland's biggest celebration of American roots are hoping that a new late-night club concept will create a real festival feel.

Leap in numbers seeking sight of Tay dolphins

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 12:18:00 +0100

Animal lovers have been flocking to get up close to the Tay's dolphin population.

Review: Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Estate

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 11:40:00 +0100

Ford has grafted some extra metal on to the back of its excellent new Focus, but how has that affected the car's abilities?

Review: Doxford Hall Hotel and Spa, Northumberland

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 11:21:00 +0100

Grant Reid takes the time to explore one of those places you always see signposted while driving somewhere else and finds there is indeed plenty to amuse off the beaten track...

Ranger service's swift survey is on the lookout for 'lum screamers'

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 08:32:00 +0100

Angus Council's ranger service wants to hear from anyone who has spotted a "lum screamer".

TIGA report says tax breaks abroad are helping firms 'entice' UK video games developers

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:47:00 +0100

Dundee's computer games industry will be damaged by a brain drain as staff leave the UK to work abroad, it has been warned.

Treasury criticised for rejecting targeted games tax breaks

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:03:00 +0100

A Dundee MSP has criticised the UK Government for ruling out tax relief for the computer games industry.

Party atmosphere reigns surpreme at T in the Park

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:39:00 +0100

'Good Day, Sunshine' belted out ironically over a random sound system, as one of several torrential downpours engulfed the T in The Park audience on the final day of the festival.

Car sales post 5% year-on-year dip in June

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 15:39:00 +0100

New car sales in Scotland fell by 5% last month, new figures have revealed.

Review: Audi A7

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 12:18:00 +0100

What do you do when you've spent the recession bringing out a slew of new models while every other manufacturer has been reining in costs and tightening their belts? Why, bring out yet another new model, of course.

Grand Scottish Prom conductor Grant Llewellyn ready for all the great outdoors can throw Glamis Castle's way

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 11:20:00 +0100

The Grand Scottish Prom at Glamis Castle is back. Helen Brown speaks to the RSNO's conductor for the evening, Grant Llewellyn, about the thrills and spills of performing in the open air.

Headlines transformed into art as part of D-AiR's Dundee Live festival

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:58:00 +0100

If you are walking round Dundee over the next week and you see newspaper billboards that contain unconventional headlines, passengers laughing to themselves on a bus while listening to headphones or people dancing in the street, the chances are you'll have stumbled upon the first Dundee Live public art and performance festival.

Perth Theatre unveils varied schedule

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:03:00 +0100

From shipwrecked shores to Glasgow tenements, Beirut bunkers to the glamour of Hollywood, the new season at Perth Theatre promises to take audiences on an exciting journey.

Scarlet rosefinch a rare visitor to Isle of May reserve

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 09:47:00 +0100

A very unusual visitor normally more associated with Asia and eastern Europe has been spotted at a Scottish nature reserve.

It's not unusual to be loved at T in the Park but Tom Jones burns down the house like no one else

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:45:00 +0100

T in the Park has never seen anything like it.

Try it if you dare — competition to design a comic strip for The Beano and The Dandy

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:31:00 +0100

The Dare ProtoPlay video games festival is set to take over the city next month and organisers have teamed up with The Beano and The Dandy to search for the comic strip designers of the future.

T in the Park fans told to party hard — but stay safe

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 07:45:00 +0100

Revellers at T in the Park have been advised to think about their wellbeing while enjoying themselves.

Tayside a popular destination for geocachers

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:46:00 +0100

The Tayside area is a hotspot for the high-tech hobby of geocaching that caused a bomb scare in Yorkshire.

Government urged to help UK firms compete for share of growing video games market

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:07:00 +0100

Dundee will lose its share of the global video games market — expected to grow to more than £46 billion this year — unless tax breaks for games firms are introduced, it has been warned.

Bring your wellies! — wet start for T in the Park 2011

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 09:07:00 +0100

Campers attending T in the Park look set to face rainy weather when they arrive today, but the landowner at Balado is confident the festival can cope.

Researchers find large numbers want to switch off from always-on digital world

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:52:00 +0100

Tired of texting, enraged by email, sick of social networking? Then you are not alone.

John Muir Trust will accept no slip-ups in fight against littering on Ben Nevis

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:25:00 +0100

Members of staff from conservation charity the John Muir Trust are taking to the slopes of Ben Nevis dressed as bananas to ask people to take their litter off the mountain.

Marching orders for Tattoo man Brian Alexander

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:02:00 +0100

When the world-famous massed pipes and drums lead off the first performance on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle tonight, it will be a particularly poignant moment for St Andrews soldier Brian Alexander, in what is likely to be his last tour of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Cat and Mouse preview to be given at Perth Theatre Studio

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 15:40:00 +0100

A play based on events almost 100 years ago, when Perth became the focal point of the struggle for women's votes, will be given a sneak preview at Perth Theatre Studio on Thursday.

Go Wild to support Highland Perthshire's mountain rescue team

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 19:20:00 +0100

A developing fixture on the Highland Perthshire summer events calendar has this year been dedicated to the Tayside Mountain Rescue team and its vital life-saving work.

Dundee Blues Bonanza over for another year

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 16:40:00 +0100

The Dundee Blues Bonanza 2011 signed off another successful year after laying on a weekend of free music.

Ennstal-Classic beckons for Honda enthusiast who restored this rusting wreck

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 17:03:00 +0100

A Blairgowrie motor enthusiast has restored a classic car which he will drive more than 800 miles to take part in a rally featuring Sir Stirling Moss.

Bike accident leaves Courier photographer with trans-Europe quandary

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 16:18:00 +0100

A tumble on the roads of Croatia has brought a painful halt to Courier photographer Kim Cessford's enjoyment of a Top Gear-type challenge across Europe.

Review: Mercedes C250 CDI estate

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 15:56:00 +0100

Mercedes-Benz has always been a byword for quality and reliability, but with budget cars better built than ever before the luxury German brands are having to work harder than ever to maintain their lead.

Dundee Rep's summer school meets new addition

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:18:00 +0100

Nine-year-old Molly Ryder became Dundee Rep's latest signing when the Blackness Primary School pupil signed up for the theatre's summer school this week.

Windsor joins St Andrews Aquarium's regal animals

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:01:00 +0100

Dunfermline school children had a right royal time meeting meerkats in St Andrews.

Spirit of Ecstasy meets Spirit of Electricity with the Rolls-Royce Phantom 102EX

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 13:12:00 +0100

Dundee battery manufacturer Axeon has made the power system for the world's first electric Rolls-Royce. As the prototype car embarks on a tour of well-heeled customers around the world, The Courier's Jack McKeown was one of the first journalists to drive the only electric Roller in existence.

The View go underground for children's charity

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:01:00 +0100

The View are to play an intimate — and silent — charity gig in Dundee the day before taking to the main stage at T in The Park in front of tens of thousands of fans.

Deacon Blue frontman Ricky Ross relishing Dundee return

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 10:49:00 +0100

Ricky Ross will play the first gig in the newly-refurbished Gardyne Theatre in Dundee.

Author Iain M Banks on latest Culture novel Surface Detail

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 10:34:00 +0100

Iain M Banks is relaxing in a London hotel. Fresh from a holiday in Paris and Venice, he has a brief meeting with his publisher before hopping on the train back to his home in North Queensferry.

Not even the California sunshine could stop Lil' Jimmy Reed from coming 'home' to Dundee

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:58:00 +0100

Dundee Blues Bonanza headliner, US bluesman Lil' Jimmy Reed, says he turned down the chance to play at a major festival in California to come and play in his "second home".

T in the Park honour for Dunfermline boys Big Country

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 18:22:00 +0100

Fife legends Big Country will open the main stage at this year's T in the Park a week on Friday.

Summer swimmers warned to be aware of open water dangers

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:39:00 +0100

The belated arrival of some warmer weather has prompted Tayside Fire and Rescue to issue a warning about the dangers of swimming in open water.

T in the Park remaining at Balado site, says landowner

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 09:01:00 +0100

The landowner of the T in the Park site has quashed rumours that this could be the last year the festival is held at Balado.

Wi-Fi on trains important for Scotland's economy, says MSP

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:26:00 +0100

Scottish rail services need reliable and free Wi-Fi to make the train service a more attractive option, according to an MSP.

'Just let it wash over you' — actress Susan Vidler on the surreal Knives in Hens

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 18:40:00 +0100

Susan Vidler will be most familiar to audiences as the heroin-addicted mother in Trainspotting. This month and next she is appearing in Dundee and St Andrews in Knives in Hens.

Review: VW Passat 2.0 TDi BlueMotion

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 17:32:00 +0100

Volkswagen's Passat Estate is the essence of a dependable car that does almost everything well. It lacks the pizzaz of its smaller sibling the Golf, but still has the VW badge that signifies quality for so many buyers.

Family ties lead Canadian man to donate Robert Burns collection to Kirriemuir school

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:51:00 +0100

A Canadian whose family came from Kirriemuir have donated part of his collection of Robert Burns books to the school where his ancestors were taught.

'Big city' Aladdin panto promised for Dunfermline

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:28:00 +0100

While the weather has been far from sultry, many would think it too early to think of plum pudding and Christmas crackers — but not at the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline.

Review: The Floorshow at the Mad Yak Cafe by Colin Will

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:10:00 +0100

The Floorshow at the Mad Yak Cafe, a short book of 40-plus poems, is a three-part collection that relaxes the reader as it travels with them.

Ted DiBiase proves even Scottish Wrestling Entertainment has a price

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 14:10:00 +0100

Wrestling fans are grappling with the revelation that superstar Ted DiBiase, The Million Dollar Man, has bought Scottish Wrestling Entertainment.

'It is tough' — how independent booksellers are meeting today's challenges

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 10:18:00 +0100

Today is the conclusion of Independent Booksellers Week, which has seen a wide variety of events encouraging people to visit their local bookshop. Helen Brown speaks to Jude Innes of J & G Innes in St Andrews about the unique appeal of the one-off shop.

Rumer has it that star will perform in Dunkeld

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 16:08:00 +0100

One of the world's fastest-rising stars is set to follow appearances at the Glastonbury Festival and Royal Albert Hall by interrupting her busy schedule, which includes Glastonbury Festival, and the Royal Albert Hall, playing at the 200-capacity Birnam Arts Centre in Dunkeld.

East Neuk Festival takes in even more breathtaking venues

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 19:48:00 +0100

If there's one thing about the East Neuk Festival, it's always looking ahead. Each year's individual programme is lovingly crafted to highlight some of the best classical music in the repertoire.

Lil' Jimmy Reed coming back for another Dundee Blues Bonanza

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 15:22:00 +0100

The Dundee Blues Bonanza has announced that it will once again host a big-name international star, thanks to The Courier and other local benefactors.

Complete Stone Roses to headline Neurofest in Dundee

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 17:21:00 +0100

The Complete Stone Roses are the star attraction at this year's Neurofest, a charity festival featuring almost a dozen of Dundee's best up-and-coming talent.

Meat off the menu for Morrissey's Perth Concert Hall performance

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:04:00 +0100

Used to meeting the whims of diva performers, staff at Perth Concert Hall have taken the latest superstar demand in their stride.

Abertay University's Dare to be Digital teams get down to the serious job of gaming

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:33:00 +0100

Abertay University has launched its world-leading computer games competition Dare to be Digital.

Dundee Rep's Sweeney Todd wins pair of national critics awards

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:33:00 +0100

Dundee Rep again shone in Scotland's theatre awards by winning the prize for the best male performance and sharing the honour for the best music and sound — both with the acclaimed production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

St Andrews University lab says there are big savings from computing in the cloud

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 16:07:00 +0100

Experts at St Andrews University say cloud computing could help businesses slash millions of pounds from their technology budgets.

Review: Subaru Outback diesel

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 14:51:00 +0100

The Subaru Outback — essentially a Legacy with increased ground clearance — is just the kind of car people in these parts need.

Catching up with land speed record entrepreneur Richard Noble

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 10:15:00 +0100

In 1983, Edinburgh-born Richard Noble brought the land speed record back to Britain. In 1997, ThrustSSC became the first car to break the sound barrier. A week ago, the entrepreneur was the worthy recipient of the prestigious Jim Clark Award. Here he tells Jack McKeown about his latest project — to build the world's first 1000mph car.

Keying and Hou Qua paintings sold for big prices

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:54:00 +0100

The latest sale at a Perth auction house exceeded expectations, with several items fetching thousands of pounds above valuation.

Scottish Wildlife Trust says Lady the osprey's eggs have failed to hatch

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:40:00 +0100

There was sad news for wildlife lovers as it was confirmed the UK's oldest breeding osprey's latest batch of eggs have failed to hatch.

Scottish car sales on the up — in contrast to UK picture

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:13:00 +0100

New car sales in Scotland bucked the UK trend in May, with a 2.9% increase north of the border contrasting with a decline in sales across the United Kingdom.

Ben Vrackie's scenic appeal leads to soaring demand for parking

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 15:51:00 +0100

Increasing numbers of visitors are flocking to one of Perthshire's most popular mountain walks, prompting plans for improved visitor facilities.

Record surge in ticket sales for Dougie MacLean's Perthshire Amber festival

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:27:00 +0100

Ticket sales for a Perthshire music festival that is the brainchild of Dougie MacLean have reached record levels.

Strong showing for Tayside and Fife beaches — but St Andrews takes a dip

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 07:40:00 +0100

Almost all of the official beaches along the coast of Tayside and Fife have passed their first water quality tests of the summer with flying colours.

Review: Discovery Charity Concert featuring Laura McGhee and Nicola Benedetti

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:51:00 +0100

The organisers of any musical event, be it in a church hall or a concert hall, can be excused self-indulgence by picking their favourite music and artists, writes Garry Fraser.

Avon Voices competitor Jenna within touching distance of Hollywood

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:42:00 +0100

A Montrose woman has made it through to the last 100 of a global singing talent search being judged by international popstars.

Review: Seat Ibiza ST

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 20:08:00 +0100

This is the Seat Ibiza ST, an estate-ish version of the hatchback, and the most important thing you should know about this Ecomotive version is that it does 80.7mpg.

Wild about words — KT Tunstall on World Environment Day

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 19:09:00 +0100

World Environment Day (WED) is an annual event aimed at being the biggest and most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action.

Back at the (ZZ) Top for Glamis Castle's summer prom

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:25:00 +0100

First impressions might hint towards hard rock rather than high brow, but a familiar face at Glamis Castle has been back on the bandwagon of promoting the landmark's summer prom.

Havana Swing at Glastonbury

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 14:06:00 +0100

Over 25 years after forming as a three-piece, Dundee gypsy jazz band Havana Swing have been asked to play Glastonbury.

Going electric — Chris Longmuir welcomes the eBook

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 13:13:00 +0100

In February, US sales of electronic books overtook paperback sales for the first time. American consumers spent £55.2 million on eBooks and only £49.8 million on the humble paperback.

Val Verde land dream gig with Bon Jovi

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 12:35:00 +0100

Young Dunfermline band Val Verde have landed the gig of a lifetime after being chosen to support American rock icons Bon Jovi at Murrayfield next month.

Olly Murs welcomes X-Factor second chance at fame

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 11:24:00 +0100

Nice guys finish second, so they say — and strictly speaking, where Olly Murs is concerned, that's true.

Bigger, flatter, wetter, better — Opening the floodgates at Vane Farm RSPB reserve

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 10:55:00 +0100

For over 40 years, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has managed Vane Farm on the shores of Loch Leven. Next month, an ambitious project to expand the area's wetland habitat will get under way in the hope of attracting endangered wading birds and improving visitor experiences.

Fantastic Finns, super Swedes — A Baltic adventure

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 10:34:00 +0100

In the inimitable words of Monty Python: "Finland, Finland, Finland, The country where I want to be, Eating breakfast or dinner, Or snack lunch in the hall." It was with this level of searing cultural insight that William Lockwood stepped off the plane in Helsinki, ready to tackle whatever hurdles the country could throw at him, with a taste of Sweden thrown in for good luck.

Bow regard — Nicola Benedetti talks to The Courier

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 09:51:00 +0100

Nicola Benedetti is a woman of her word. In the midst of one of her busiest years ever — and that's saying something — she is coming to Dundee to take part in the second City of Discovery Charity Concert as guest soloist, playing with the RSNO in virtuoso music for the violin by Max Bruch and Pablo Sarasate.

Active role for Dundee Rep — despite budget cuts

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 09:17:00 +0100

Dundee Rep is to stage a production at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for the first time in its history this year, despite slashing its production budget for the next 12 months.

Scone Palace Rewind Festival wins approval of licensing board

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 09:01:00 +0100

A massive open air festival bringing the best of the 80s back to Perthshire has received the approval of the local licensing authority.

NHS Tayside warns area about blue-green algae hazard

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 16:21:00 +0100

NHS Tayside has warned people in Dundee, Angus and Perth and Kinross to be on the lookout for blooms of potentially hazardous blue-green algae in the region's waterways.

Hopes fade for Lady of the Lowes' latest eggs

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:56:00 +0100

Hopes that the UK's oldest breeding osprey will continue to play a role in boosting the species' population are fading fast.

March of the Lego men — surreal scenes by artist Scott Carruthers

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:52:00 +0100

An eye-catching exhibition which features paintings of Lego men in a series of bizarre and surreal scenes is causing a stir in St Andrews.

Andy and Derek Cumming arrive at Broughty Ferry after River Tay kayak adventure

Tue, 31 May 2011 10:55:00 +0100

Kayakers Andy and Derek Cumming have arrived tired but happy at Broughty Ferry, after completing their marathon journey down the Tay.

'Pull up a chair' at furniture art project

Mon, 30 May 2011 13:35:00 +0100

Old chairs have been transformed into works of art during an innovative scheme in Cupar.

Stormy weather's toll on birds

Mon, 30 May 2011 12:07:00 +0100

The high winds across Scotland have taken a terrible toll on the nation's birdlife, according to the RSPB.

Review: Anna Karenina, at Dundee Rep

Sat, 28 May 2011 18:25:00 +0100

Staging a version of an epic Russian novel that is thought to be one of the greatest works ever written is not a straightforward task, but Dundee Rep succeeds in conveying the complexities of 19th-century life, love, politics and propriety in its new production of Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina.

Itchycoo Park to provide sounds of the 60s at Scottish Beatles Weekend

Sat, 28 May 2011 17:57:00 +0100

Even the biggest Beatles fan knows that there was more to the 1960s than the Fab Four.

Laura McGhee on her Arbroath Suite and the City of Discovery Charity Concert

Sat, 28 May 2011 13:40:00 +0100

The second City of Discovery Charity Concert takes place in the Caird Hall, Dundee on June 4. Helen Brown spoke to Angus-born Nashville resident Laura McGhee about performing on home territory — and the inspiration behind her Arbroath Suite.

Review: Mazda6 2.2 Diesel Sport

Sat, 28 May 2011 13:13:00 +0100

Mazda's Mondeo rival the 6 received a comprehensive makeover last year, with better styling, new engines and a host of other refinements.

Maciej has a go at creating the next Angry Birds

Sat, 28 May 2011 12:41:00 +0100

Can pigs fly? An orphaned pig called Roger: The Flying Pig certainly wants to in a new mobile phone game by a student at Abertay University.

Artists sign up for Hospitalfield's summer programme

Sat, 28 May 2011 11:57:00 +0100

The Hospitalfield centre for art and culture in Arbroath has attracted two top Scottish artists to contribute to its summer masterclass programme.

Geordie Stewart says conquering Everest and completing seven summits challenge was his 'most amazing moment'

Fri, 27 May 2011 14:46:00 +0100

An intrepid St Andrews University student says becoming the youngest Scot ever to conquer the highest peak on all seven continents was "the most amazing moment" of his life.

Puccini passion play comes to Dundee's Whitehall Theatre

Thu, 26 May 2011 20:01:00 +0100

Perth men John Carlo Bellotti and Alister Allan are appearing in Puccini's Tosca at the Whitehall Theatre in Dundee as, respectively, Mario Cavaradossi and Baron Scarpia.

The Presents at Byre Theatre: introducing young minds to the wonder of live performance

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:34:00 +0100

What age is suitable for your child's first trip to the theatre? Early high school? Primary age? Nursery? Actually, it's as young as four months, argues Katherine Morley, creator of The Presents, a musical show aimed at babies aged 4-18 months.

Ade Edmondson bringing passion for punk to Dunfermline

Thu, 26 May 2011 18:40:00 +0100

He was one of the biggest comedy figures of the 1980s and 90s, in telly programmes like The Young Ones and Bottom. Now he's in a band playing punk tunes on mandolins, pipes and fiddles. But don't dare call Ade Edmondson and the Bad Shepherds a novelty act.

Game for autistic children features at Abertay digital graduate show

Wed, 25 May 2011 17:54:00 +0100

A musical video game to help children with autism learn and relax has been unveiled to the public at the Abertay digital graduate show.

A bit of fun, but risks of planking craze should not be taken lying down

Wed, 25 May 2011 11:41:00 +0100

A surreal internet craze that led to the death of a man in Australia this month is sweeping across Dundee.

Adam Ant finally unplugs the jukebox as Fat Sam's heckling wears thin

Tue, 24 May 2011 14:23:00 +0100

Adam Ant stormed off the stage in a huff at Fat Sam's in Dundee, despite the crowd chanting for a third encore.

Real head-turners at Scottish Motorshow at Knockhill

Mon, 23 May 2011 15:56:00 +0100

Not even the showers could dampen the turbo-charged atmosphere at the Scottish Motorshow held at Knockhill at the weekend.

Review: Audi A6 2.0 litre TDI

Sat, 21 May 2011 19:09:00 +0100

Audi's latest A6 — the seventh generation — is lighter and more technologically advanced, but it's the refinement and build quality that really impresses.

Cat's comeback proves that microchipping is best for pets

Sat, 21 May 2011 17:40:00 +0100

There's a purrfect ending to what could have been a catastrophic 'tail' for one kitty who came in from the cold.

Fife man's prized links with Australia detailed in governor's book

Sat, 21 May 2011 16:28:00 +0100

The importance of Fife connections to Australia has been stressed by the governor of New South Wales, Professor Marie Bashir, when she launched a new book.

Dundee Rep stages adaptation of Russian classic Anna Karenina

Sat, 21 May 2011 11:47:00 +0100

Anna Karenina mixed a powerful female protagonist with desire, duty and divorce, and caused a stir in late 19th century Russia. As Dundee Rep prepares a stage version of Leo Tolstoy's novel, Jennifer Cosgrove spoke to the designers working behind the scenes.

Intrepid enthusiasts take Model T Ford up Ben Nevis — in bits

Fri, 20 May 2011 09:03:00 +0100

The trouble with centenaries is that the weather can often spoil the festivities, writes Garry Fraser.

Threatened Byre Theatre open to the idea of working under a cultural trust

Fri, 20 May 2011 08:21:00 +0100

St Andrews' Byre Theatre would be open to working with Fife Council towards the creation of a single cultural trust for the region, it has emerged, amid continued concerns about what impact budget cuts could have on the venue.

Caird Hall date for Scottish National Jazz Orchestra

Thu, 19 May 2011 16:24:00 +0100

The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra will swing into Dundee on Sunday during a tour featuring specially-composed music.

Cohort Studios releasing another PlayStation Network game despite impending closure

Thu, 19 May 2011 10:50:00 +0100

A Dundee video games developer has announced the release of its second game — a month after it announced it was being forced to close down.

Dundee College presents The Last Days Of Yegor Bulychev

Wed, 18 May 2011 10:55:00 +0100

A play by Russian writer Maxim Gorky gets its Scottish premiere this week.

BT gets go-ahead for Dundee superfast broadband cabinets

Tue, 17 May 2011 17:20:00 +0100

Thousands of BT internet users in Dundee could shortly have access to superfast broadband, after the council's development management committee voted 14 votes to 10 in favour of allowing the telecom company to construct "broadband cabinets" at three locations.

Adam Smith College students put troubles behind them to stage final shows

Tue, 17 May 2011 14:46:00 +0100

Performing arts students at Adam Smith College showed they have put the uncertainty of recent weeks firmly behind them as they prepare for their final public performances of the year.

Increase in number of red squirrel sightings inspires confidence in conservation effort

Tue, 17 May 2011 12:28:00 +0100

Perthshire is leading the way in a resurgence in sightings of red squirrels, as conservationists have reported a growing confidence in their bid to protect Scotland's remaining pockets of the under-seige species.

Mark Beaumont lines up another adventure — rowing to the magnetic North Pole

Mon, 16 May 2011 19:53:00 +0100

World record-breaking adventurer Mark Beaumont has told The Courier of his hopes, dreams and fears ahead of his latest death-defying expedition.

Kasabian call-up gives Modern Faces a real head start

Mon, 16 May 2011 19:25:00 +0100

Young Dunfermline band Modern Faces have been asked by rock giants Kasabian to join them on tour next month.

Review: Brink (Xbox 360)

Mon, 16 May 2011 19:19:00 +0100

Brink's team emphasis, crisp visuals and customisation do enough to stand out from a growing pack, in which reliance on online play can make or break the audience.

Kirstie Abbey wins three Master Photographer Association awards

Mon, 16 May 2011 18:44:00 +0100

Laurencekirk photographer Kirstie Abbey has won three of the top categories at The Master Photographer Association (MPA) Scottish region's annual awards.

International folk stars come to play at Eassie Does It festival

Mon, 16 May 2011 16:20:00 +0100

The lead singer of renowned Scottish folk group Capercaillie visited Angus to headline a music festival.

RSNO Naked Classics ready to reveal the back story

Mon, 16 May 2011 15:18:00 +0100

The RSNO is back at the Caird Hall on Thursday, with something just a little bit different.

Dundee Degree Show 2011 attracts high-profile guests

Mon, 16 May 2011 13:56:00 +0100

Turner Prize winner Susan Philipsz and Pixar founder Alvy Ray Smith head up the list of VIP guests attending this year's Dundee Degree Show.

Review: BMW X3 xDrive 2.0d Auto

Sat, 14 May 2011 19:50:00 +0100

The old X3 was one of the few chinks in BMW's armour. Slightly out of proportion and with a harsher ride than some military vehicles, it was a rare case of the Bavarian manufacturer messing things up.

Older people urged to try technology fit for a queen

Sat, 14 May 2011 18:46:00 +0100

It's fit for a Queen — and now thousands of older people across Tayside are being encouraged to join the iPad revolution.

Montrose Basin Visitor Centre upgrades to HD

Sat, 14 May 2011 10:58:00 +0100

An Angus wildlife reserve has installed a new floating high definition camera to record images of birds as they begin their summer migration.

Scottish SPCA urges caution before handling 'injured' birds

Fri, 13 May 2011 08:38:00 +0100

The Scottish SPCA has warned the public their good intentions could be doing "more harm than good" to young birds this spring.

American mink targeted in £1 million cull

Thu, 12 May 2011 19:28:00 +0100

North Tayside is a key target area in a near £1 million bid to cull the breeding American mink before it can do irrevocable damage to the native wildlife.

Search and rescue teams dealing with consequences of our sense of adventure

Thu, 12 May 2011 15:28:00 +0100

Tayside Police Search and Rescue Unit has seen a staggering 30% increase in emergency calls compared with the same period last year.

Duo become RSNO's first joint leaders

Thu, 12 May 2011 13:55:00 +0100

James Clark and Maya Iwabuchi have been appointed leaders of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Review: The All New Original Tribute to The Blues Brothers, at Dundee Rep

Thu, 12 May 2011 12:55:00 +0100

It may be over 30 years since John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd got their 'band' back together on the big screen, but The Blues Brothers are still very much alive and kicking — this time on stage.

Dundee Rep a front-runner at critics' awards

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:46:00 +0100

Dundee Rep and The Traverse Theatre Company in Edinburgh have plenty to celebrate in the year's Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland.

Chipmunk and Professor Green confirmed for T in the Park

Wed, 11 May 2011 07:41:00 +0100

Urban heroes Professor Green and Chipmunk lead the new acts announced for T in the Park.

Dead seal washed up at Monifieth will be left for 'nature to take its course'

Tue, 10 May 2011 12:21:00 +0100

Angus Council says it has no plans to remove the rotting carcase of a seal washed up at Monifieth.

'The show's about creating debate' — Richard Herring discusses Christ on a Bike

Mon, 09 May 2011 17:16:00 +0100

Having already caused ructions with his show Hitler Moustache, which saw him sport a fuhrer-style nostril tickler, Richard Herring is stirring up more controversy with his current Christ on a Bike tour. The comedian famous for his intelligent, thought-provoking humour tells Jack McKeown why he believes Christians should not judge — lest they be judged.

Architect taking on his own self-build

Sat, 07 May 2011 18:45:00 +0100

A Mearns architect is undertaking the complete design and build of his new studio, which takes inspiration from traditional farmyard buildings.

Harriers have chance to breed at Kinnordy reserve

Sat, 07 May 2011 17:59:00 +0100

Marsh harriers could breed this year at an Angus nature reserve for the first time since records began, experts have suggested.

Long weekend of traditional music at FifeSing

Sat, 07 May 2011 17:12:00 +0100

A traditional music festival will again draw a host of popular performers to the Howe of Fife.

Vane Farm blue tit finds unusual spot to nest

Sat, 07 May 2011 16:31:00 +0100

A miniature resident at an RSPB reserve is telling smokers to "butt out" after building its nest in an ashtray.

St Andrews ranks highly in TripAdvisor visitor survey

Sat, 07 May 2011 14:30:00 +0100

A remarkable few days for St Andrews was topped off when it was unveiled as one of Britain's 10 most popular retreats.

Review: Hyundai iX20

Sat, 07 May 2011 11:48:00 +0100

Over the past few years South Korean sister companies Kia and Hyundai have been engaged in a rapid ramping up of their cars' quality. No longer cheap but rattly runarounds, vehicles such as Kia's Sportage and Hyundai's ix35 can now mix it with the best in terms of syle, quality and driving dynamics, while undercutting the opposition on price.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre's latest play makes Elsie a screen star

Sat, 07 May 2011 11:47:00 +0100

A young Pitlochry girl is preparing to take the stage after landing her dream job.

Leonardo da Vinci drawings to come to Dundee

Sat, 07 May 2011 07:03:00 +0100

Ten Leonardo da Vinci drawings are to go on display in Dundee in another major coup for the award-winning McManus Galleries.

Three men reported for Inchkeith seabird egg thefts

Fri, 06 May 2011 11:35:00 +0100

Police in Fife are probing the "significant" theft of eggs from nesting sites on Inchkeith in the Firth of Forth.

Investigation into golden eagle pesticide death in Strathdon

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:39:00 +0100

Tayside Police have joined their Grampian counterparts and wildlife experts in probing the death of a golden eagle on an Aberdeenshire estate.

RSNO appoints new chief Michael Elliott

Thu, 05 May 2011 20:02:00 +0100

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra have announced the appointment of Michael Elliott as their new chief executive, taking over from Simon Woods who departed in April.

Mark Beaumont's 'gun-point' email shocks fans

Thu, 05 May 2011 16:30:00 +0100

Thousands of fans of cyclist Mark Beaumont were left gobsmacked when an email purporting to come from him suggested he had been mugged "at gun point."

Irish roots research made easier as brightsolid puts records online

Thu, 05 May 2011 08:05:00 +0100

A Dundee online publishing company has launched a service to help people trace their Irish roots.

Wildfires raise shooting season fears on Scottish estates

Thu, 05 May 2011 07:04:00 +0100

Wildfires such as those that have caused at least £100,000 of damage across Scotland could threaten the shooting season on the moorland estates of Perthshire and Angus.

Beyonce destined for T in the Park

Thu, 05 May 2011 07:01:00 +0100

Superstar Beyonce is coming to T in the Park.

Francis Boag's William and Kate paintings sold to US gallery

Wed, 04 May 2011 19:59:00 +0100

Two paintings by artist Francis Boag are to leave a Fife gallery for their new home in America following their sale.

GPS tracking to aid study of wind farm effects on goose migration

Wed, 04 May 2011 19:40:00 +0100

A high-tech study is expected to help experts discover what impact proposed wind farms in the Firth of Forth could have on migrating geese.

PlayStation Network hack delays last release from Cohort Studios

Wed, 04 May 2011 11:50:00 +0100

The release of the final game created by defunct Dundee development company Cohort Studios Ltd has been delayed because of the Sony PlayStation network security breach.

Alex Ferns on the burden of being The Hard Man

Tue, 03 May 2011 18:29:00 +0100

Alex Ferns freely admits, "I'm not used to playing hard men — I'm not really a hard man."

Work begins on Scottish SPCA centre at Fishcross

Tue, 03 May 2011 13:52:00 +0100

The Scottish SPCA has explained the aims of a new £3.5 million wildlife rescue centre which is being built in Clackmannanshire.

Box clever with Steve Murray's Facebook printer

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:04:00 +0100

People are relying more and more on social networking websites to lead their lives, but data can disappear at the flick of a switch.

Review: Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 19:44:00 +0100

Kia's Sportage was a worthy Scottish Car of the Year 2010 winner. Last autumn, I drove the first version to arrive in the UK, which was the 2.0 litre diesel four-wheel drive model.

Sam will be a star among the crowd at Scottish Beatles Weekend

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 19:12:00 +0100

If any proof was needed that the music of The Beatles spans the generations, then the latest addition to the ever-expanding line-up for the Scottish Beatles Weekend is it.

Tayside's hillwalkers warned not to rely on phones

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 17:20:00 +0100

The picturesque hillwalking routes around Tayside may look deceptively easy to navigate but a leading figure in the local mountain rescue team is warning people not to rely on mobile phone technology.

The Love and Death of Caterina author Andrew Nicoll on journalism and geography

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 16:30:00 +0100

Andrew Nicoll is not your archetypal novelist. "I detest this idea that a writer needs to retreat to a shed at the bottom of his lilac-scented garden in order to do any work," the gruff, bearded journalist declares.

Perthshire Amber to attract thousands

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 14:13:00 +0100

Thousands of music fans are to descend on the area as the increasingly popular Perthshire Amber festival returns for its seventh year.

Mike Gibb's Dundee plays to be beamed around the world

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 11:52:00 +0100

Works by playwright Mike Gibb, whose Dundee-themed tales have proved sell-outs in Tayside and Fife, have been picked up by the National Theatre of Scotland to be broadcast across the world.

Help! Did you see The Beatles in Dundee in the 60s?

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 09:50:00 +0100

To celebrate the first Scottish Beatles Weekend, the organisers are hoping to do something very special — and it could be YOUR help they're looking for.

Perth pair still saying I Do! I Do! after 20 years

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:57:00 +0100

Life has come full circle for husband and wife team Ian Grieve and Amanda Beveridge who are appearing together on the Perth stage where they first met 20 years ago.

Catch of the Tay — novice angler lands 38lb salmon

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:20:00 +0100

Blessed with beginner's luck, angler Andrew McAdam this week caught a massive 38lb salmon on the Tay on his first attempt at salmon fishing.

Cut off — broadband delay leaves Dale facing painful and expensive journeys

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:48:00 +0100

A Mearns man has spoken of his anxiety as he prepares to submit his honours year university coursework without internet access — just weeks before he is due to undergo major surgery.

Smokeheads author Doug Johnstone features in Dundee Literary Salon

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 19:31:00 +0100

Despite having lived in Portobello for quite some time, Arbroath-born Doug finds himself in Dundee a fair bit — mainly because his parents have lived there for more than 20 years.

Degree show feels the pulse of Dundee University's software development future

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 17:29:00 +0100

Apps and programs for use by everyone from detectives to blood donors to Colombian coffee growers will be on show as the latest group of computing graduates at Dundee University host their degree show this week.

Monster mash-up of old and new at Dundead horror film festival

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:39:00 +0100

Scary movies are big business and for those who like to give themselves a fright every once in a while, writes Jennifer Cosgrove, there's nothing better than a trip to the cinema for a good dose of horror.

On the Rocks gets its final rocks off in St Andrews

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:04:00 +0100

A student art festival which brought art, comedy, music, film and theatre to St Andrews has played its closing note.

Ferryden boasts Facebook first for Angus

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:41:00 +0100

A community council in Angus has become the first locally to set up a Facebook page in a bid to publicise its activities and raise its profile.

Viz creator Simon Donald talks stand-up, comics and Humourless Scottish Gits

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 11:08:00 +0100

What do you get if you take the Beano and the Dandy and parody their style, swapping family-friendly hilarity for bad language, toilet humour and surreal absurdity?

Sadness expressed at closure of Cohort Studios

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:50:00 +0100

The video games trade association has expressed sadness at the closure of Dundee company Cohort Studios, and hopes that the chief executive and his team can be successful in the future.

Mathew Trust takes starring role with £50,000 donation to Gardyne Theatre project

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 18:54:00 +0100

A public appeal to raise £600,000 to help refurbish the Gardyne Theatre in Dundee has received a big boost.

Time for tea: Murton nature reserve provides some creature comforts

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 17:18:00 +0100

An Angus nature reserve has opened a new tearoom.

Review: Lexus IS 250C

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 12:50:00 +0100

The IS 250C is definitively a car for grown-ups. Its handsome but understated styling, comfort-over-performance driving dynamic and elegant interior all seem designed specifically for the over-50s.

New help online if you want to go down to the woods today

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 12:22:00 +0100

Nature lovers can win one of the country's most luxurious Easter eggs by spreading the word about local woodlands.

Dundee Rep and Royal Lyceum Edinburgh partnership launched

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:35:00 +0100

Dundee Rep and Royal Lyceum Edinburgh have established a two-year working relationship to co-produce plays.

Motor industry turns over a new Leaf as electric car takes top award

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:21:00 +0100

Nissan's all-electric Leaf has been named World Car of the Year.

Flood of information from Abertay University's WaterTown computer game

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 07:22:00 +0100

Flood defence decision-making is to be helped across Europe by the development of a new computer game at Abertay University.

ITV series Long Lost Family to be sponsored by Genes Reunited

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:13:00 +0100

A Dundee company is sponsoring a new TV series that traces and reunites long-lost family members.

Scottish Wildlife Trust severs funding for Loch of the Lowes osprey book

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Further criticism has been aimed at the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) after it ended its direct involvement with a fund-raising project.

Efforts to save iconic capercaillie from a second extinction

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:50:00 +0100

One of Scotland's iconic species, the capercaillie, remains under serious threat of a second extinction.

T in the Park boosted by addition of The Strokes

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:08:00 +0100

New York rock giants The Strokes are the latest big names to be announced for T in the Park in July.

Doric 'n' roll — Aberdeen launches Northern Lights music festival

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:38:00 +0100

Aberdeen is to host Scotland's newest big music festival, Northern Lights.

Could it be three times for Lady?

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 10:10:00 +0100

Could it be once, twice, three times for Lady as the incredible osprey continues to stun her faithful followers with her achievements?

DJ Yoda makes it up to Scottish fans

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 22:11:00 +0100

Duncan Beiny, aka DJ Yoda, wants a party when he comes to Dundee next week.

Deacon Blue to make festival debut at Belladrum

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 21:14:00 +0100

Deacon Blue will play their first-ever Scottish festival when they headline this year's Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival in August.

Review: Honda Jazz

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 19:32:00 +0100

You might not know it but you're looking at the best-selling Honda in the UK.

Panda Su gets back on the road with short trip to Drouthy Neebors

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 18:41:00 +0100

Fife-based singer-songwriter Panda Su comes back for a "hometown" gig at Drouthy Neebors on Thursday (April 21) to celebrate her latest release, the I Begin EP.

Exhibition of photography and poetry at Montrose Museum

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 18:11:00 +0100

Review: Perth Youth Orchestra, Perth Concert Hall

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 16:10:00 +0100

This week's concert by Perth Youth Orchestra under conductor Allan Young showed them to be in magnificent form.

Kinnaber conservationists to stand before diggers

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 15:01:00 +0100

Conservationists battling to save lizards in Montrose will next week walk in front of diggers when work begins on a £229,000 cycle path.

Boy Who Trapped The Sun to honour Doghouse date — weather permitting

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 13:44:00 +0100

It was the day The Boy Who Trapped The Sun became The Boy Who Was Trapped in The Snow.

Three-artist retrospective planned at Kinblethmont Gallery

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 12:07:00 +0100

The work of three top Scottish artists will come together in Angus for a retrospective exhibition this month.

Jewellery designer turns to the art of business

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 10:33:00 +0100

A young jewellery designer has made the brave decision to open her first boutique.

The Other Guys 'delighted' at online response to Royal Romance

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 08:10:00 +0100

Student singers from St Andrews are astonished at the online sensation caused by a video they posted on YouTube.

Teams from over 70 universities Dare to be Digital

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 18:30:00 +0100

Dare to be Digital, the world's leading computer games design competition, has attracted applications from over 70 universities around the world.

Norwegian translation for tale of celebrated Bamse

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:31:00 +0100

The best-selling story of a second world war canine hero, celebrated in an Angus sculpture, has entered a new chapter with the release of a Norwegian translation of the book in its homeland.

Mi Dundee smartphone app surfs the city's buzz

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:12:00 +0100

New businesses, the arrival of the V&A and a number of exciting prospects made Dundee the "obvious" location for a new smartphone app, according to its developers.

Cabinet of Curiosities back touring Fife

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 17:29:00 +0100

After three months off the road undergoing a refit, Fife's unique mobile museum is back.

Dundead Festival bringing the gore to Dundee

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:52:00 +0100

If blood and guts are your thing then a new film festival at Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) may be just what you're looking for.

YouTube goes Gaga for The Other Guys and Royal Romance

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:23:00 +0100

Student singers from the university where Prince William and Kate Middleton met are taking the internet by storm with a royal reworking of a Lady Gaga hit.

Joanna Vanderham may be Runaway success

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:41:00 +0100

A former Dundee High pupil, who landed her first major role alongside Scottish stars Alan Cumming and Ken Stott, has been hailed as one to watch.

Angus school cyber bullies warned by council

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:58:00 +0100

Angus Council has warned it takes a zero tolerance approach to the cyber bullies who make pupils' and teachers' lives a misery.

Perthshire beaver Erica was killed by splinter

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 06:59:00 +0100

Details have emerged over the death of a Tayside beaver that captured the heart of a local group.

Stellar Quines aim to introduce audiences to the Age of Arousal

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 19:57:00 +0100

Strange to relate in these days when being a secretary is still seen as a female domain, that it was not much more than a hundred years ago the typewriter gave women unimagined job opportunities. Helen Brown spoke to Age of Arousal director Muriel Romanes about a story of women's lives and the huge changes, social, political, personal and sexual, wrought by technology and the campaign for women's rights.

Lizard protection bid leads to discovery of slow-worms at Kinnaber

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:48:00 +0100

Conservationists battling to save lizards from being crushed by diggers in Montrose have made a rare discovery which could raise the profile of Kinnaber as a "very special jewel in the Angus crown."

Preview: Distinguished conductor Peter Oundjian coming to Caird Hall

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:01:00 +0100

It's not often someone has to choose between sport and classical music as a career but Peter Oundjian reckons that with his family background, the two actually harmonised pretty well.

Outbye Gallery hosts first Jen Robson solo exhibition

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:56:00 +0100

Horses, braids and the colour blue are just some of the themes that appear in the work of Dundee-based artist Jen Robson. After years of working with portraiture, she has now developed her own unique style. She spoke to Jennifer Cosgrove about her first solo show — and why she's embracing all inspiration.

Review: BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra at Perth Concert Hall

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:52:00 +0100

The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra concert in Perth's concert hall had a programme that catered for every taste.

Monifieth missing molluscs as conservationist reports concerns

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:45:00 +0100

Police are investigating claims that an excessive amount of whelks and mussels were removed from Monifieth beach at the weekend.

Book republished in tribute to wild land campaigner Irvine Butterfield

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:28:00 +0100

The first book written by a popular wild land campaigner and photographer will be republished as a lasting tribute.

Composers fight for St Andrews University accolade

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:33:00 +0100

Three talented composers will battle it out in the grand final of St Andrews University's 600th anniversary composition competition.

Kassidy looking forward to some Doghouse banter

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 22:02:00 +0100

Scotland's own "American rockers" Kassidy are back at one of their favourite Scottish gigs next week. Riding high on the wave of great reviews for the debut album Hope Street, the alt-country rockers come to The Doghouse on Tuesday, April 12.

Review: Mazda 5

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:21:00 +0100

Mazda's 5 has always been one of the better-looking people carriers. Its basic van-like shape is disguised with a sharp, wedge shape, lots of stylish little design touches and smart alloy wheels.

Students' memories of life at DJCAD summed up in sketch

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 16:42:00 +0100

Dozens of art students have collaborated on a work to promote their upcoming exhibition.

Kaye Adams covering the news from all angles

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 16:15:00 +0100

Spending an hour in the company of Margaret Thatcher still ranks as the most nerve-wracking moment of Kaye Adams' career.

Wheels of industry — the Scots firms involved in the early days of motoring

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 13:49:00 +0100

Over a century ago, Scotland was dotted with small engineering firms experimenting in a brand-new industry — motor manufacturing. Brian Townsend takes a drive down memory lane, looking at the firms involved in the early days of an exciting new era of transport.

Growth of craft breweries is no small beer

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:06:00 +0100

Mentioning craft beer to most folk will probably induce flashbacks of heinous home brew kits from student days. However the truth about craft beer is as far removed from these hazy heady headless beer days as you could possibly imagine.

Inquiry into discovery of poisoned birds of prey on a Perthshire estate continues

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:12:00 +0100

Investigations are continuing following the discovery of two poisoned birds of prey and bait on a Perthshire estate.

BT pledges to accelerate spread of super-fast broadband

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 12:28:00 +0100

BT has pledged to provide super-fast broadband to 34,000 more Scots by the end of the year.

Review: St Catherine's Day, at Dundee Rep

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:58:00 +0100

The second production in the Rep's A Play, A Peh and A Pint collaboration with Oran Mor cultural centre in Glasgow is a new work written by Dundee singer and songwriter Michael Marra.

John Muir Trust's wind farm report prompts angry response from Scottish Renewables

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 11:23:00 +0100

A row has broken out after a leading Scottish conservation charity released a report it says shows wind farms will produce far less energy than claimed.

Federation of Small Businesses delivers warning to Scottish Government over broadband access

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 09:24:00 +0100

Business leaders have warned the next Scottish Government not to let the country be "left behind" in the broadband revolution.

SSPCA urges the public not to move fox cubs

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:39:00 +0100

Two fox cubs — one found in a garden in Dundee — are being looked after by the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

A Play, A Peh and A Pint at Dundee Rep

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:07:00 +0100

It's surprising the phenomenon of a play, a pie and a pint didn't originate in Dundee given the city's historic association with the crusty delicacy.

Countryside groups berate Scottish Labour's proposed ban on snaring

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:24:00 +0100

Countryside bodies have warned that an outright ban on snaring would have major economic consequences in rural Perthshire and Angus.

Review: The Firebird, at Dundee Rep

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:51:00 +0100

They enjoy shaking things up at The Rep and, this time, it's all for the benefit of the younger members of the audience.

Review: The View at the Caird Hall

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 10:44:00 +0100

The View returned to Dundee for yet another triumphant show at the Caird Hall — the packed venue showing just why the Dryburgh foursome are adored in their home city.

Romance in the air for ospreys Lady and Laird at Loch of the Lowes

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:58:00 +0100

After a forced separation of several months, Scotland's most famous couple is again hitting the headlines after reconciling at the weekend.

Nicola Benedetti produces a lyrical performance

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 21:32:00 +0100

There was one main reason for travelling to Edinburgh's Usher Hall on Friday to hear the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), but there were two reasons for leaving completely fulfilled, writes Garry Fraser.

Big Cats in Britain receives multiple reports of 'black leopard' in Fife

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:50:00 +0100

Sightings of a 3ft tall black cat — some are suggesting could be a black leopard — have been reported in west Fife. They were reported in Carnock, Saline and near Cairneyhill last month.

Six Black Candles — Des Dillon's witches of Coatbridge

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 16:16:00 +0100

Six sisters, their ma and grandma get together to use a bit of womanly witchcraft, with murder in mind...playwright Des Dillon talks about about the deadly female of the species — and the real life role models for his Scottish Witches of Eastwick.

The Hideaway Experience: another world on your doorstep

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 13:29:00 +0100

Sometimes a little deception is no bad thing. Well, it was in my case recently when the opportunity arose to test drive something new in the shadow of the Sidlaw Hills, just outside Dundee.

Jolomo awards shortlist 'shows landscape painting is now alive and well in Scotland'

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 13:18:00 +0100

An Aberdeenshire artist is among a group of seven Scottish talents to have reached the shortlist for the The Jolomo Bank of Scotland Awards 2011 for Scottish landscape painting.

Creative couple behind new Theatre Arts School for Perth

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 11:34:00 +0100

A previous creative director at Perth Theatre will put his experience to good use by opening a theatre arts school.

Review: Renault Megane CC

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 11:06:00 +0100

Spring has sprung, and it seems we've finally put this long harsh winter behind us. So it's probably not a bad time to start road testing convertibles once more.

The Lady's not for returning — odds are against osprey say bookies

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:47:00 +0100

Despite making an incredible recovery from a near-fatal illness and defying expectations by returning this year, bookies are failing to give Lady the osprey the same chances of survival.

Lady in waiting: Loch of the Lowes osprey fights off competition

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:04:00 +0100

Scotland's most famous Lady of the Loch has proved she is determined to stand by her man.

New Tayside Mountain Rescue post in Aberfeldy hailed

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 12:16:00 +0100

Mountain rescue operations mounted in Highland Perthshire and other serious incidents will benefit from a new base unveiled this week.

SNH beaver capture programme halted after solitary success

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:49:00 +0100

The body behind a controversial plan to recapture wild beavers in Tayside has called time on the project — having caught just one animal in four months.

Spirits soar as Lady swoops into Loch of the Lowes reserve

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 08:55:00 +0100

A record-breaking osprey has been described as "incredible" by experts after defying expectations and returning to Perthshire for her 21st year.

TV comedian Andy Parsons playfully derides Dundee's Whitehall Theatre

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:58:00 +0100

Mock the Week comedian Andy Parsons had the Whitehall Theatre in his sights as he started the Dundee leg of his UK tour in hilarious fashion.

Two Dolls open Dundee haven for creative types

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:03:00 +0100

It's been said so many times before — if you want something done, you've got to do it yourself, and that's exactly the advice that two like-minded Fife mums have followed. Jennifer Cosgrove met the originators of creative hub Two Dolls to find out more.

Geordie Stewart returning for second attempt at Everest dream

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 18:50:00 +0000

A St Andrews University student aiming to be the youngest Briton to conquer the highest peak on every continent will make his second attempt at Mount Everest.

Big hopes for Ickle film festival

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:51:00 +0000

The curtain will soon be rising on a new film festival showcasing an eclectic mix of independent cinema in Tayside.

Review: Ford Focus 1.6L Edge

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 15:50:00 +0000

The 2011 Focus is the most important car Ford have launched for quite some time.

The best-looking are sitting pretty when it comes to paying for dates

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 14:24:00 +0000

Researcher at St Andrews University have proved once and for all that it pays to look good.

Entertainer Eddie vows to bring Bella back

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:58:00 +0000

Bella Nuggett is back! That is the message from entertainer Eddie Davidson, who is hoping to return to the stage after years battling depression following the loss of his sight.

In The Land Of The Free: Robert Hillary King on 29 years of solitary confinement

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:34:00 +0000

Robert Hillary King spent 29 years in solitary confinement, despite a compelling lack of evidence of his guilt of the crime for which he was convicted. He spoke to The Courier during a visit to the UK.

Fife has always been our home — Sarah Brown on life in No. 10 and being 'WPM'

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:00:00 +0000

It's been nine months since Gordon and Sarah Brown linked hands with their children and walked out of Downing Street for the last time. With the publication of her diary, Behind the Black Door, the former 'WPM' tells Jack McKeown about the good times and the bad.

Feathers flying over loss of Loch of the Lowes osprey blog

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 07:00:00 +0000

While the return of the famous Loch of the Lowes osprey is imminent, for many of her loyal supporters it has been tarnished by the shock closure of a popular blog.

'Life-changing decision' to go it alone looks like a sound move by Euphonious founder

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:30:00 +0000

A Dundee company formed after the collapse of Realtime Worlds has already become a big noise in the video games world — just two months after it was founded.

Puppeteer Ailie has her head in the clouds

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Puppeteer Ailie Cohen was in Dunfermline on Thursday to rehearse her show Cloud Man, which will form part of this year's Puppet Animation Festival.

Video games industry sees plea for tax breaks ignored in Budget

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:49:00 +0000

Dundee's computer games sector has been left "swimming against the tide" after the coalition government again refused the industry's pleas to introduce tax breaks.

In The Doghouse with Goldie Lookin' Chain

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:23:00 +0000

A bunch of Welsh nutters, possibly up to nine of them, are heading our way tonight in the eccentric form of Goldie Lookin' Chain.

Perthshire twitchers holding vigil for Lady of the Lowes

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:02:00 +0000

Birdwatchers at a Perthshire wildlife reserve are mounting a vigil in the hope of spotting their most famous visitor.

Stellar album reviews give Kassidy hope of big breakthrough

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 19:34:00 +0000

Looking like something out of West Coast America, they've been described as the successors to the Kings of Leon throne. And with five-star reviews flying in for their debut album Hope Street, Glasgow's Kassidy look increasingly like the "Next Big Thing".

Review: The Government Inspector, at Perth Theatre

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 17:25:00 +0000

While the extravagant and exaggerated genre of farce may seem slightly out of place in this new age of short attention spans and quick information, the themes in Nikolai Gogol's The Government Inspector are still very relevant.

New US owner of Realtime Worlds' All Points Bulletin given £125,000 grant to set up Edinburgh studio

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:05:00 +0000

The new owner of a computer game that destroyed Dundee company Realtime Worlds, with the loss of 250 jobs, has been given a £125,000 grant to create jobs in Edinburgh.

Jerry Sadowitz's late call-off is no laughing matter to Dundee Rep comedy fans

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 07:22:00 +0000

It was no joke when a performance by acid-tongued comic Jerry Sadowitz at Dundee Rep was cancelled at the last minute.

VisitScotland campaign to help Angus and Dundee make a splash

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:17:00 +0000

A multi-million-pound investment by VisitScotland will promote Angus and Dundee as "an amazing holiday destination."

Tim Burgess and Mark Collins bring The Charlatans acoustic show to The Doghouse

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 20:57:00 +0000

The Charlatans vocalist Tim Burgess and guitarist Mark Collins are playing a series of intimate live shows across the UK, which brings them to the Doghouse in Dundee on Sunday.

Pet project results in poetry win

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:11:00 +0000

A Montrose woman has come second in a poetry competition organised by the Scottish Writer's Centre.

Dennis can still Menace with the best of them at 60

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 17:56:00 +0000

Dundee's most famous mischief-maker celebrated his 60th birthday this week.

US tour beckons for Black Watch actor who decided it was time for change

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 15:49:00 +0000

A former Dundee policeman has gone from collaring criminals to taking curtain calls around the globe with his latest play.

Camping bylaw sought for Perthshire lochs

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:41:00 +0000

A new bylaw that prevents camping around the shores of Loch Lomond should be considered for Highland Perthshire, according to a senior local politician.

The Government Inspector arrives at Perth Theatre

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 13:44:00 +0000

Government corruption appears they have been all too prevalent since Ukrainian playwright Nikolai Gogol penned The Government Inspector over 170 years ago. Following rave reviews and a sell-out tour, Scotland's acclaimed theatre company Communicado are about to revive the production for Perth Theatre.

Review: VW Touareg 3.0 litre V6 TDI SE

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 11:28:00 +0000

Normally when I test cars I try to drive them in a variety of conditions. I'll take them around town, cruising on motorways and along country roads. The VW Touareg got all this, and then some.

VIDEO: HMV acoustic set caps strong first week for The View's Bread and Circuses

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 09:05:00 +0000

Dundee's HMV store in the Murraygate was mobbed by adoring fans of The View on Friday night when the band played an acoustic set to celebrate their new album.

Peter Pan performed on ice at Perth Concert Hall

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:15:00 +0000

A spectacular adaptation of Peter Pan has hit the Perth Concert Hall stage with Wild Rose Russian Ice Stars.

Cream of city's video games talent in BAFTA books

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:38:00 +0000

Student programmers from Scotland and Sweden have joined Colin Firth on the BAFTA roll of honour this year after winning a Dundee video games competition.

Teacher warns of music cuts threat

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:55:00 +0000

The benefits of music tuition for youngsters run far deeper than merely learning to play an instrument and should be protected at all costs, according to a teacher and noted conductor.

Scotland the place to be for skiers and snowboarders

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 10:32:00 +0000

Scotland has been hailed as the best place in Europe to enjoy skiing at present, with December's early snowfall forming the basis for a fantastic season.

Royal Scottish National Orchestra celebrates Auld Alliance with 2011-12 season programme

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 19:51:00 +0000

The Auld Alliance between Scotland and France is alive and kicking as the Royal Scottish National Orchestra announce their programme for season 2011-12.

StAnza poetry festival begins

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:39:00 +0000

Visitors across the world have gathered in St Andrews for Scotland's international poetry festival.

'Creative content fund' among TIGA's main recommendations to support video games industry

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:14:00 +0000

Scottish video games companies should be given government support to help develop titles, the head of the trade association representing the industry has said.

Fab news! Dundee to host Scottish Beatles Weekend

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:47:00 +0000

Calling all fans of the Fab Four! It's been a few months in the planning, but Rocktalk can finally reveal that Scotland's first-ever annual Beatles convention — and the only one in the UK outside of Liverpool — is being held in Dundee.

The Good Hope for those in peril on the sea

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 14:09:00 +0000

A production that highlights the hardships inherent in making a living from the sea opens at The Space tonight.

Kirrie photographer's Glen Clova snap wins Jura whisky's 'Wish you were here' competition

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:23:00 +0000

A Kirriemuir photographer has won a masterclass from a legendary National Geographic snapper after emerging victorious in a worldwide photography competition.

Dare To Be Digital iPad game Sculpty reaches the App Store — and goes for a BAFTA

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 16:20:00 +0000

A game produced as part of Abertay University's Dare to be Digital competition is being made available worldwide.

Shock rise in birds of prey being poisoned

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 07:02:00 +0000

There has been a rise in the number of Scotland's birds of prey being poisoned with illegal chemicals, new figures have revealed.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre marks 60th anniversary

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:51:00 +0000

Pitlochry Festival Theatre is gearing up to celebrate 60 years in the business, having just unveiled its 2011 summer season programme.

Enjoy the magic of the Misty Isle at Skye's Kinloch Lodge

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:49:00 +0000

Mist-covered mountains, wild seas and dramatic ruined castles drenched in history make the Isle of Skye one of the most romantic getaways that Scotland, and indeed the world, has to offer. But perhaps nowhere encapsulates the romance of the Misty Isle more than the luxurious hideaway Kinloch Lodge — the island's only Michelin Star establishment. Michael Alexander travelled north to find out more.

John Byrne is named Hospitalfield House honorary patron

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:08:00 +0000

Playwright and artist John Byrne was named honorary patron of Hospitalfield House arts centre in Arbroath at the weekend.

Duke's Corner date for Emma's Imagination

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 21:20:00 +0000

Young Scottish singer Emma Gillespie comes to Duke's Corner on Tuesday.

Poets gather for StAnza 2011

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 20:42:00 +0000

Poets from across the world are preparing themselves for Scotland's annual international poetry festival, StAnza.

Blackadders offers new mobile service

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 17:39:00 +0000

Homeowners in Tayside are being offered the chance to track the sale of their home on their mobiles phones — from viewing appointments right through to when offers are made.

Review: Audi A1 1.6 TDI Sport

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 13:15:00 +0000

Not very long ago a car like the Audi A1 would have seemed faintly absurd. A supermini based on the humble VW Polo that starts at well over £13,000 and can cost more than £20,000 would not have been high on anyone's shopping list.

Former Dundee student Mark Roberts gets monster chance with Frankenstein role

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 10:31:00 +0000

A former Dundee College drama student is to appear on stage in Dundee — without setting foot in the city.

Astronomer Ken Kennedy warns of threat solar flares pose to modern communications

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 07:04:00 +0000

Imagine a world without working mobile phones, email, GPS — in fact a world absent of any modern communication links.

Spektrum Nights bring Jon Carter to the Reading Rooms

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 17:59:00 +0000

A new experience in clubland comes to Dundee's Reading Rooms on Saturday night when those Rhumba Club boys, in partnership with Edinburgh's Progression and Musika, bring Spektrum Nights.

New TIGA report sets out need to support research and development in video games industry

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 10:47:00 +0000

Reserach and development tax credits for the creative industries should be extended to help Dundee's video games sector.

Glenshee hoping for snow to extend successful season

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 07:30:00 +0000

Bosses at Glenshee Ski Centre hope that fresh snowfall could extend what has already been an excellent season by a few more precious weeks.

William McGonagall poems' first airing in over a century

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 07:01:00 +0000

Unpublished poems by William McGonagall are to be recited in public for the first time in more than 100 years.

Review: The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, at Dundee Rep

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:23:00 +0000

It's been said that comedy is tragedy plus time, and nothing demonstrates this equation more effectively than the Rep Ensemble's new production of Jim Cartwright's The Rise and Fall of Little Voice.

Author inspired by Lady of the Loch's incredible story

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Lady, the famous Perthshire osprey, is to be the subject of another book.

New highlight for Angus Glens Walking Festival

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:19:00 +0000

This year's Angus Glens Walking Festival will include a walk dedicated to the bicentenary of the completion of the Bell Rock Lighthouse.

Cat And Mouse play about Perth suffragettes takes to stage in Edinburgh

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 09:23:00 +0000

A play telling the story of four suffragette hunger strikers, held in Perth Prison in 1914, will take to the stage in Edinburgh.

Fat Sam's date for The Wombats

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 20:41:00 +0000

The Wombats are back, loud and kicking, with a brand-new single Jump Into The Fog already giving them another top-40 hit in January.

Arts award cash to boost portfolio

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 19:07:00 +0000

Dundee-born artist Katie Lowery has been named the winner of the prestigious J. D. Fergusson Arts Award for 2011.

Review: Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 18:36:00 +0000

Few car manufacturers have as enviable a reputation, pedigree and history as Alfa Romeo. As a car reviewer, I always look forward to the next Alfa with a measure of anticipation.

A track-by-track tour of The View's new album Bread and Circuses

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 18:00:00 +0000

As The View prepare for the March 14 release of their third album, Bread and Circuses, The Courier's Alan Wilson talks to lead singer Kyle Falconer to get the inside track on a hugely important release for the band.

Tummel Bridge to get faster internet

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:51:00 +0000

A remote Highland Perthshire community is to benefit from the introduction of high speed internet this spring.

Panda Su's end-of-tour party at Kirrie's Bank Street Gallery

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:48:00 +0000

Jagged Roots Music hosts another evening of intimate acoustic music on Saturday when Kirrie's Bank Street Gallery opens its doors to Panda Su.

Dougie MacLean to perform in Arbroath as part of Year of Light celebrations

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:00:00 +0000

One of Scotland's most popular musicians is to perform in Arbroath as part of the Bell Rock Lighthouse 200th anniversary celebrations, in what is being described as a coup for the town.

Writer out to quash Barrie myths

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 15:33:00 +0000

Kirriemuir has hosted the UK launch of a new book about J. M. Barrie's early literary career that aims to debunk long-standing myths about the author.

Film animation award for Adam Smith College's Jonathan Mortimer

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 14:10:00 +0000

A lecturer at Fife's Adam Smith College has received his first taste of red-carpet glamour after picking up an international short film prize at an award ceremony in Germany.

Kinpurnie Print Studio opens at Hospitalfield

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 13:54:00 +0000

A new print studio opened at Hospitalfield in Arbroath as an extra site for artists and printmakers.

Bon Appetit restaurant celebrates six years of success

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 12:26:00 +0000

The Bon Appetit restaurant in Dundee began its seventh year this week with high hopes to be as successful as during the first six.

Classic novel giveaway in Cupar to mark World Book Night

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 18:20:00 +0000

Dozens of Cupar folk were left leafing through a classic novel after free copies were handed out in the street.

Cockney Rebel Steve Harley rolls in to the Rothes Halls

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:25:00 +0000

The Ole Rebel Steve Harley plays an intimate acoustic set at the Rothes Halls in Glenrothes tonight.

IndepenDance Day arrives at The Space

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:25:00 +0000

Dundee College contemporary dance students have been putting the final touches to their latest production.

Soloist Giordano Luca to join the party at Glamis Castle Proms

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:18:00 +0000

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and a renowned Italian singer will star in a rejuvenated Glamis Castle Proms this summer.

Review: Gagarin Way

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 18:46:00 +0000

Any theatre-goer who believes swearing is for people with a limited vocabulary should make an exception for Gagarin Way. Gregory Burke's zippy breakthrough one-act play is a barrage of bad language from the word go but, after while, it becomes less conspicuous as we are sucked into his gritty, witty and sinister and black comedy.

Carnoustie Theatre Club celebrates success at one-act play festival

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 18:02:00 +0000

Carnoustie Theatre Club swept the board in an Angus one-act play festival in Arbroath.

Start of seven-year project to rid South Georgia of rats

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:23:00 +0000

A conservation project will launch an unprecedented killing spree in the Antarctic today.

Hyundai i40 is new Mondeo rival

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:43:00 +0000

This is our first look at the i40, Hyundai's new Mondeo rival. The South Korean car maker is taking the slightly unusual step of releasing the estate version first - it'll go on sale in July - with a saloon model following later in the year.

Tayside's wild beavers continue to evade capture

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:34:00 +0000

Wild beavers in Tayside continue to prove elusive after the organisation attempting to capture them admitted that only one has been caught.

Slow sound of success for horn player Rachel Neil

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:33:00 +0000

A Carse of Gowrie musician has been named the Scottish Slow Melody Champion for 2011.

Review: 4 Elements (Nintendo DS)

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 14:22:00 +0000

The latest puzzler to hit the Nintendo DS will bring out the wizard in you: eyes keen and stylus swift as you match the eldritch symbols, with pondering strokes of the chin in between.

Mercedes enters new age with C-Class Coupe

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 21:51:00 +0000

Mercedes is hoping to entice younger buyers with the new C-Class Coupe. Premiering at next month's Geneva Motor Show, the elegant four-seater will go on sale in June.

Porsche Panamera goes electric

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 20:45:00 +0000

Porsche's four-door Panamera will soon be available in hybrid form.

Duncan of Jordanstone students win Royal Scottish Academy scholarships to Florence

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 19:23:00 +0000

There can hardly be a better place to study for aspiring young artists than the Italian city of Florence.

Montrose Basin giving greater insight into bugs' life

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 18:40:00 +0000

Young wildlife enthusiasts will have a chance to gain a greater insight into the types of bugs inhabiting Montrose Basin thanks to a new feature at its visitor centre.

Former Realtime Worlds employees pushing out in new directions

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 16:41:00 +0000

New firms are rising from the ashes of former Dundee games company Realtime Worlds, which collapsed last year with the loss of more than 200 jobs — and they are not all involved in pushing forward the boundaries of computer science.

Latest Kia is the Rio deal

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 15:40:00 +0000

There's a good reason why European manufacturers are fearful of the rise and rise of South Korea's car industry, and the latest Kia Rio shows why.

Review: Jaguar XJ Premium Luxury

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 11:28:00 +0000

I'm not clear if it's a sign of elegant refinement or just hubris, but the £59,000 Premium Luxury model I tested is actually only the second most expensive in the XJ range. If you want the last word in XJ luxury, you have to go for the £62,000 Portfolio model.

The rise of Dundee Rep's Jemima Levick

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 10:17:00 +0000

As Dundee Rep prepares for its new play, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, Jennifer Cosgrove meets associate director Jemima Levick to talk about life, work, and feeling at home in Dundee.

Sheriff Kevin Veal adds his pedal power to Organathon

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 10:01:00 +0000

A Tayside sheriff is to take a very different seat from that on the bench of his court when he lends his support — and musical talent — to a novel fund-raiser today.

T in the Park fans camp out overnight for tickets

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 07:33:00 +0000

T in the Park fever hit Dundee again as music lovers queued overnight to snap up tickets for Scotland's biggest festival.

Switch to Green Hotel sees Mundell magic continue

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:45:00 +0000

With Fifestock in full swing, Rocktalk decided last weekend to try out the latest venture of promoter David Mundell, the man behind the successful Bein Inn and Inn at Lathones venues.

Scottish Community Drama Association's one-act play competition visits Webster Theatre

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:44:00 +0000

Webster Theatre in Arbroath hosts the Angus District leg of a one-act play competition on Saturday.

Burlesque is back: Club Noir comes to Fat Sam's

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 19:10:00 +0000

Burlesque is back — and it's classy, not sleazy. Ahead of the world's biggest burlesque show hitting Dundee, Jack McKeown talked to the owners and performers of Club Noir.

T in the Park line-up mixes international stars and local heroes

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:48:00 +0000

The View can practically write their own ticket to play at T in the Park every year, the festival's director has said. Announcing this year's main headliners as Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay and Foo Fighters, Geoff Ellis named the Dundee band as one of the best of the rest.

Owners urged to control their dogs after death of 15 sheep

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:19:00 +0000

Dog owners in west Fife have been warned to ensure they control their pets following a spate of sheep worrying incidents in the Oakley and Saline areas which have resulted in the death of 15 animals.

Leeds band Vessels at Beat Generator

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:31:00 +0000

Leeds-based Vessels are a rock band going places, and quickly. After a relatively "quiet" spell at the turn of the year, they return to gigging action on their current tour to promote their new album, Helioscope, with a gig on Wednesday at new Dundee venue Beat Generator.

Craigtay and New County in running for Scottish hotel 'Oscars'

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:09:00 +0000

Hotels in Dundee and Perth have been nominated for hospitality industry awards.

Review: Vauxhall Antara

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 21:03:00 +0000

Vauxhall's Antara has failed to capture the car buying public's imagination since it went on sale in 2007. Always regarded as one of the weak rungs in the manufacturer's range, Vauxhall struggled to shift 1000 of the things per year. So it's no bad thing that they've drastically overhauled the unsuccessful model.

Young songwriter of the year Stella Reilly picks up her prize

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 18:24:00 +0000

The young songwriter of the year, Perthshire's Stella Reilly, has revealed she is going to use her £1000 prize money to buy a new flute.

Anthony McIntyre wows star judge at Live and Unsigned

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:39:00 +0000

A talented Perthshire man has hit the right notes with the judges of one of the UK's biggest original music competitions.

Musical marathon aims to safeguard future of Caird Hall organ

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 13:37:00 +0000

At the end of the month there will be a special event in the Caird Hall to raise much-needed funds for its concert organ, regarded as one of the finest in Scotland. Jennifer Cosgrove finds out more.

No Way Down author Graham Bowley on the fatal fascination of K2

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 12:07:00 +0000

Dundee University's Saturday Evening Lecture Series continues this evening with a talk by New York Times writer Graham Bowley. Jack McKeown caught up with him to find out why a disaster on the other side of the world became a personal quest for answers.

At home with legendary comics artist Ian Kennedy

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 11:35:00 +0000

In a village on the edge of Dundee lives a very gentle, softly-spoken man. Ian is 78 now, and lives in a nice cottage with Gladys, his wife of 58 years, just yards from a view made famous by James McIntosh Patrick.

Sea eagle death a "total mystery" to head of Scone conservation trust

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 06:13:00 +0000

The Scottish chairman of a Perthshire-based conservation charity has described claims a dead sea eagle had been found on his estate as a "total mystery."

Students ready to protest threat to Dundee College music course

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:31:00 +0000

Dundee College's NC and HNC music course — which was attended by the View's Kieren Webster and hundreds of other young musicians in Tayside — is to be axed under the college's planned £4 million cuts, it has been claimed.

Labradors painting smashes pre-auction estimate in New York

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:17:00 +0000

A 100-year-old oil painting of a Perthshire family's labradors has sold for £64,534 at an auction in America.

McLaren confirms MP4-12C's breathtaking stats

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 22:48:00 +0000

McLaren has revealed performance details for its hotly anticipated but clunkily named MP4-12C supercar.

Final chance to view masterpiece at British Golf Museum

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:05:00 +0000

A world famous golfing masterpiece can be seen for the last time in St Andrews before it returns to Edinburgh.

Limmy pursuing the new in return to BBC screens

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 19:33:00 +0000

Glasgow comic Brian Limond has gone from internet sensation to fully fledged television star, with the second series of Limmy's Show starting on BBC2 this week. He tells Jack McKeown about comedy, fatherhood, and staying on the wagon.

Poetry preview whets appetites for StAnza festival

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 14:27:00 +0000

A taste of what is to come at Scotland's international poetry festival was offered in Dundee on Tuesday.

John Clark Motor Group opens Skoda dealership in Dundee

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 19:23:00 +0000

Dundee's new Skoda dealership officially opened its doors on Monday, eight months after the demise of the previous franchise.

Review: Death Of A Salesman, at Perth Theatre

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:13:00 +0000

Described as one of the finest dramas in the whole range of American theatre, and widely studied in schools and universities, Arthur Miller's classic play Death Of A Salesman is no walk in the park for any director or actor.

January to forget for Scottish motor trade

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:32:00 +0000

The Scottish car market got off to a bad start in 2011. Figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show new car sales in Scotland were down 13% last month, with 9694 new registrations compared to 11,135 in January 2010.

Cointreau twist helps Fiona Bird to claim Lady Marmalade crown

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:54:00 +0000

Angus food campaigner and author Fiona Bird has made a tasty morning her preserve after claiming the crown of Lady Marmalade.

Developers mark two decades of saving Lemmings

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 07:36:00 +0000

The 20th anniversary of a computing revolution that transformed Dundee into Scotland's video games capital — and led to saving the 'lives' of countless billions of innocent digital rodents — has been celebrated in Dundee.

Tour paves Way for Gregory Burke's powerful Fife-set debut

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 19:51:00 +0000

The debut play by Gregory Burke — who wrote the worldwide smash hit Black Watch — is to be performed in the author's home town for the first time, before going on tour nationwide. Jack McKeown looks at the edgy, Fife-set comedy-thriller Gagarin Way.

First signs of spring enjoyed by Valleyfield Woodland walkers

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:33:00 +0000

Sunshine greeted walkers taking part in a stroll through Valleyfield Snowdrop Festival on Saturday.

Local soloist Lawrence O'Donnell returns to play with Perth Symphony Orchestra

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:07:00 +0000

Perth Symphony Orchestra will perform its spring concert on Saturday in the concert hall.

Chess the Musical in stalemate till September

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:33:00 +0000

Dundee Operatic Society has postponed its performances of Chess the Musical.

Graham Bowley to deliver Saturday Evening Lecture on K2 tragedy

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 21:25:00 +0000

A tragic true story of a group of 30 climbers who conquered the summit of K2 only for 11 to perish on the descent will be told in a gripping talk at Dundee University next weekend.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery exposure for Jack Vettriano

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 19:56:00 +0000

A self-portrait by Jack Vettriano will go on show in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery when it reopens this autumn.

Review: Mini Countryman Cooper S ALL4

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 19:23:00 +0000

The new Mini has been an unmitigated success. People love its cheeky looks, cheerfully modernised from its classic forebear, along with its go-kart handling and the perceived build quality that comes with being part of the BMW brand.

Forget the pheasants — these labradors are poised to fetch £50,000

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 18:42:00 +0000

A 100-year-old oil painting of a Perthshire family's labradors is poised to fetch up to £50,000 at an auction in America next week.

Dougie MacLean to appear at Crail Festival

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 17:41:00 +0000

Crail Festival has unveiled its programme for July, with Dougie MacLean and Isla St Clair leading the line-up.

Art Angel classes to help pupils create art school portfolios

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 15:26:00 +0000

Art Angel is an innovative, charitable arts project based in Dundee that is offering a series of art classes to help secondary school pupils build up a portfolio for submission to art schools.

Frank McDiarmid's paintings on show at Whitehills Health and Community Centre

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 14:23:00 +0000

Colourful watercolour scenes from around the world are brightening up the Forfar centre's walls.

Scottish Dance Theatre celebrates its silver anniversary

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 13:42:00 +0000

Scottish Dance Theatre marks its 25th anniversary this year with a new programme of contemporary work travelling from home territory in Dundee to venues all over Britain.

Perth Theatre presents Death Of A Salesman

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 12:27:00 +0000

Perth Theatre's first touring production in years opened on Friday. Jennifer Cosgrove caught up with actor Ron Emslie, who is taking on the pivotal lead role in Arthur Miller's Death Of A Salesman.

Fife artists honoured by Society of Painters in Watercolour

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 11:31:00 +0000

Four artists from Tayside and Fife have won awards at the 131st annual exhibition of the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour (RSW) at the Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh.

Artist Jack Vettriano is pleased to come home

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 06:18:00 +0000

Renowned artist Jack Vettriano said he still feels "at home" in Fife.

Night in The Doghouse for Chapel Club

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:40:00 +0000

With a voice that could sit easily in either Echo & The Bunnymen or Teardrop Explodes, it seems strange that Chapel Club's Lewis Bowman doesn't even rate himself as a good singer.

Fifestock 2011 opens up with Benny Gallagher

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:15:00 +0000

Benny Gallagher helps kickstart Fifestock 2011 at the Green Hotel in Kinross tonight.

Chance to shine at Dundee Rep's open mic night

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 21:55:00 +0000

Young entertainers are being invited to put their talents to the test at an open mic night at Dundee Rep.

Fresh warning about online scammers claiming to be from Microsoft

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:19:00 +0000

A Dundee man is warning people to stay alert of cyber criminals after he became the target of an online scam.

New owners for company behind Dundee Fibrecity broadband project

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:18:00 +0000

The ongoing saga of the drive to bring superfast broadband to Dundee has taken another twist with news that the company behind the £30 million Fibrecity project has been sold off by its parent group.

Razor-toothed Ray's bream found on Monifieth beach

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:33:00 +0000

A woman has contacted The Courier after finding several unusual looking fish on the beach at Monifieth.

Video games firms welcome Scottish Affairs Committee's report

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:21:00 +0000

The computer games sector has broadly welcomed the publication of a Scottish Affairs Committee report on the state of the industry.

MPs' video games report adds new urgency to calls for support

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Dundee's video game industry could be lost to foreign markets if assistance to the industry is not forthcoming from the government.

Fans rush to get The View in their sights

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:31:00 +0000

The View are celebrating after tickets for their Scottish shows sold like hot cakes when they went on sale at the weekend.

Scottish Affairs Committee urges more support for 'outstanding' video games industry

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 11:07:00 +0000

The UK Government is being urged to prioritise Scotland's "outstanding" video games industry to help it overcome the challenges it faces.

Scottish Affairs Committee to publish report on video games industry

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 10:01:00 +0000

The effect of the abolition of tax breaks to Britain's video games industry is set to be revealed today in Dundee.

Volkswagen's XL1 is a vision of a hyper-economical future

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 20:11:00 +0000

It covers more than 300 miles per gallon and emits just 24g/km of CO2 but you can't buy it ... yet.

Alan McGee sees new stars in The New Times

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 18:48:00 +0000

There are good times ahead for young Dundee band The New Times after they were told they would "make it" by music industry guru Alan McGee.

Dundee Literary Salons open with contemplations of poetry

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 17:38:00 +0000

Dundee folk rubbed shoulders with figures from the writing world at this week's launch of the popular Dundee Literary Salons series.

Are electric cars about to ride to the rescue of motorists?

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 16:37:00 +0000

As The Courier's Fight For Fairer Fuel petition breaks the 5000-name barrier, our motoring editor Jack McKeown looks at the growing demand for electric cars and explores whether they can ever replace the internal combustion engine.

Review: Honda CR-Z Sport

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 13:11:00 +0000

Honda's CR-Z should be an admirable car. It's the first hybrid-powered coupe (apart from the original Insight in the 80s, which sold in tiny numbers), and it taps into an ethos that I like: why shouldn't people be able to own a car that's sporty and environmentally friendly?

DJ legend Eddie Halliwell keeping it Rio at City Nightclub

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 20:11:00 +0000

One of the greatest DJs the world has ever seen — that's official, by the way — says playing to 300 people in Perth can be more enjoyable thaen DJ-ing in front of more than a million people in Rio de Janeiro at New Year.

Review: Spirit Of The Dance, at Dundee Rep

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 18:39:00 +0000

It's official — Dundee loves a bit of dancing. And how do we know this, you may ask?

Minister Ed Vaizey provides a ray of hope for games industry

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 11:12:00 +0000

The government has given some hope to Dundee's computer games developers after a leading minister failed to rule out offering tax relief to the industry.

Talent from near and far at Fife Jazz Festival

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 18:50:00 +0000

The fourth annual Fife Jazz Festival presents an array of international stars alongside acclaimed Scottish and Fife talent from Friday night through Sunday.

NESTA report praises Abertay University's approach to training video games developers

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:01:00 +0000

A ground-breaking computer games competition run by Abertay University in Dundee should be used as a template for training the UK's next generation of video games developers, a major new report has claimed.

New strategy for tackling American mink menace

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 06:32:00 +0000

Parts of Angus and Perthshire are to be included in a new strategy to protect Scottish wildlife from the American mink.

Stephen Venables: a life of adventure

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 21:10:00 +0000

Imagine a life filled with exploration, mountain treks and dizzying heights and you may be able to picture what it's like to be internationally acclaimed mountaineer, writer and broadcaster Stephen Venables.

St Andrews sea mammal expert hails new seal culling law

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 07:28:00 +0000

A leading expert on seals has welcomed laws introduced to protect the creatures in Scottish waters.

Review: Mogwai at Perth Theatre

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 20:00:00 +0000

The ground shook slightly as Glasgow rock instrumentalists Mogwai came to Perth Theatre after a long absence from Tayside venues.

The View to play Caird Hall in April

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:18:00 +0000

The View have announced they are to play a homecoming gig at the Caird Hall in Dundee in April.

Mazda 5 gets a diesel engine

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 19:21:00 +0000

A few months after its launch, the new generation Mazda 5 people carrier gets a diesel engine.

Geneva outing for Saab's new 9-5 SportWagon

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 17:23:00 +0000

Saab's rise from the ashes continues with the unveiling of the 9-5 SportWagon.

Charities to benefit from auction of Jack Vettriano's Let's Twist Again

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 15:50:00 +0000

An original painting by Fife artist Jack Vettriano is to be auctioned off at a fund-raising dinner at the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews, next month.

Abertay University equipping students for the business of video games

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 14:55:00 +0000

Abertay University in Dundee is at the forefront of computer games design and the institution prides itself in providing students with vocational training to enable them to enter the world of work on completing their studies. Jennifer Cosgrove takes a look at the impressive results of one of its most sucessful courses.

Literary tribute to the Tornado F3

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 14:28:00 +0000

A tribute to the Tornado F3 will be launched as the aircraft nears retirement.

Review: VW Scirocco R

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 12:09:00 +0000

When Volkswagen decide to revive an old classic, they usually do it quite well. The new Beetle was warmly received and the new Scirocco has, if anything, eclipsed its stablemate's success.

Doniatia has taken long journey to prize-winning form

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 11:34:00 +0000

Life for four-year-old Doniatia should have been pulling a hay cart in Romania — instead, she is a much-loved family pony in rural Fife, boasting a clutch of rosettes.

Alan McGee's Greasy Lips competition gives Tayside bands the chance of a lifetime

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 20:11:00 +0000

One of the most famous music industry figures in the UK, Alan McGee, could catapult one young Tayside band to the big time.

Rush Hour Soul back together for Beat C in the Dog charity fund-raiser

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:47:00 +0000

Saturday night sees the return of Rush Hour Soul to the local gigging scene after a break of more than a year. Or is it two?

Mogwai tour stops off in Perth

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:23:00 +0000

Mogwai are back — back on tour and back with a new album for 2011 which sees them raise the pace and push the boundaries of where art meets rock even further.

Newly-discovered Vivaldi manuscript on show in Perth

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Music lovers will have the chance to view a reproduction of a recently discovered score by Vivaldi — performed for the first time in 250 years at Perth Concert Hall.

Gordon Brown and Martha Lane Fox get behind online campaign

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:27:00 +0000

A campaign to get every person in the UK surfing the internet has swept into Fife with the support of Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath MP Gordon Brown.

Montrose youth theatre group decides the show must go on

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:40:00 +0000

Pupils of the Montrose youth theatre school Centre Stage are to bring a bit of festive cheer to January.

Pitlochry's Winter Words Festival enters seventh year

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:11:00 +0000

It may be one of the coldest winters most of us can remember, but there will soon be a warming treat in store for anyone who likes nothing more than to curl up by the fireside with a good book.

Highland Safaris turns to technology in bid to fight soaring fuel costs

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:05:00 +0000

A Highland Perthshire tourism provider is looking to innovative green technology to combat rising fuel prices.

Race is on to design Commonwealth Games' video game

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:42:00 +0000

The first competitive action of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will take places online, thanks to a Dundee computer games company.

Black Watch actor Keith Fleming admits having cocaine

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:23:00 +0000

The drugs conviction of a Dundonian actor could harm the future of the world-famous play, Black Watch, it has been claimed.

Search is on for those who Dare to be Digital

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:07:00 +0000

The hunt is under way to find the next big names in the computer games industry.

Ronnie McIntosh hopes to generate interest in racewalking

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 21:58:00 +0000

The vice-chairman of a Dundee running club appealed to fitness enthusiasts from Fife, Angus, and Perthshire to help put racewalking back on the map in Scotland.

Perth Town Waters to be opened to the wider community

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:15:00 +0000

Anglers from outwith Perth are set to fish the town's main waterway for the first time since rights were granted by the king more than six centuries ago.

BT criticised for lack of reliable broadband service

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 13:36:00 +0000

An Angus resident criticised BT for failing to provide reliable standard broadband in his village, while upgrading to a superfast service in nearby Montrose.

Baffling surge in swimsuit sales during the big freeze

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 17:32:00 +0000

As the nation tentatively emerges from the coldest winter for a generation, retail experts have revealed that sales of skimpy swimsuits have soared.

Third time's the charm for the Mercedes SLK Roadster

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 16:17:00 +0000

Mercedes are releasing what will be only the third version of the SLK Roadster.

Perth Theatre to witness the Death Of A Salesman

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 15:09:00 +0000

The first touring production by Perth Theatre in recent years hits the roads this spring.

Thrilling Western Isles descent is a Barra-full of excitement

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 14:10:00 +0000

What do Barra, Honduras and Guatemala City all have in common? They are all in the top 10 scariest airports in the world - but in another survey, Barra was voted in the top 10 'inspirational approaches'.
Michael Alexander recently spent a family holiday on Barra and found out for himself whether it was scary or inspirational.

Land Rover's limited edition Defender X-Tech ready for all weathers

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 12:07:00 +0000

The organic soup-swilling hippies who rail against 'petrol-guzzling 4x4s' were left looking a little silly when their flimsy eco-cars had to be rescued from the snow by the very planet-killing vehicles they've set their bearded faces against.

Dundee bracing itself for Club Noir extravaganza

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 20:11:00 +0000

Club Noir, the world's biggest burlesque club with events in Glasgow, Edinburgh and London, is coming to Dundee for the first time.

Review: Infiniti EX

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:19:00 +0000

Infiniti is to Nissan what Lexus is to Toyota — the luxury arm of a large mainstream manufacturer. But, while Lexus is a household name over here, Infiniti is the new kid on the block.

Martin and Marion Neilson prepare to pass Fair City Singers' baton

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 16:59:00 +0000

A remarkable musical partnership which has been devoted to fostering musical talent in Perthshire for more than two decades is looking for a successor to take on its legacy.

Forfar fish bite the foot that feeds them

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 16:45:00 +0000

Feet-nibbling Forfar fish are tasting the toes of locals in a feelgood first for the area.

Peruvian aid work led to GP Pam Cairns' first novel

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 15:45:00 +0000

An Angus author has launched her debut novel, inspired by the aid work she carried out in the Amazon jungle.

First Stage serves up a class act

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 15:29:00 +0000

Dundee's Rep Theatre has been working with Glasgow-based writer Douglas Maxwell on a project called First Stage to encourage senior pupils from Harris Academy, St Paul's Academy and Menzieshill High School to pen bite-sized plays for performance.

Fife director Lawrie Brewster to unleash hell with White Out

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 13:03:00 +0000

Fife has been transformed into an apocalyptic frozen wasteland for a feature-length film due to hit screens in the summer.

Win a chance to see Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole do the Fife foxtrot

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 12:14:00 +0000

The glitterball might be put away for another year, but the sequinned splendour of Strictly will be arriving in Dunfermline next month.

Lady's book sees sales take off

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 11:42:00 +0000

The famous Loch of the Lowes osprey has become a publishing sensation, with a book dedicated to her making more than £1000 in just over a month.

Takami Moodie competes for top model prize

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 10:20:00 +0000

A Fife woman who has gone from IT to the catwalk in her 30s is hoping her modelling career will be launched by winning a national competition.

Opening of Camperdown Park visitor centre nears

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 18:46:00 +0000

A visitor centre at Camperdown Park is on track to welcome the first people through its doors next month.

The Courier gives Lorraine Kelly some special tweetment

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:30:00 +0000

Lorraine Kelly was one happy traveller when she arrived back in Dundee on Thursday to find a copy of The Courier waiting for her.

Police site seeks more visitors

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:43:00 +0000

The creators of a website that allows members of the public to interact with police officers are urging locals in Perthshire to visit.

Dunfermline museum plan receives £6.8m lottery boost

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:02:00 +0000

A multi-million pound lottery windfall to help create a museum and art gallery in Dunfermline was hailed as fantastic news for the town.

Cracking down on internet retail fraudsters

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:50:00 +0000

A staggering number of online businesses have been found operating within Perth and Kinross, many without any regulation.

Scone revellers to relive the 80s at Rewind Festival

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:29:00 +0000

Tony Hadley, The Human League and Rick Astley have been announced as headliners for Scotland's first Rewind Festival, a celebration of 1980s music, to be held at Scone Palace in July.

Scottish Opera brings highlights of the great composers to Birnam

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 06:31:00 +0000

Music fans looking to start the year with a bit of culture can enjoy a performance by Scottish Opera when it comes to Birnam as part of a 15-date tour.

Family portrait is artist Karen Cruickshank's final creation

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 18:18:00 +0000

The last labour of love of a 44-year-old mother-of-three from Dundee will be displayed proudly at her funeral next week.

Sea eagles give Loch Leven bird-watchers a thrill

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 17:01:00 +0000

Eagle-eyed bird-watchers in Kinross have spotted a giant bird of prey at the Loch Leven nature reserve.

Review: The Wilding by Maria McCann

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 15:18:00 +0000

Fans of Maria McCann's first novel, As Meat Loves Salt, have had a 10-year wait for her second. Was it worth it?

Peugeot 508 to take on the might of Ford and Vauxhall

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 14:22:00 +0000

Peugeot's big 508 saloon will cost from £18,150 when it goes on sale in April. The replacement for the 407 will go head to head against the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia.

Dundee musician's dream comes true

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 19:42:00 +0000

A Dundee songwriter has achieved the dream of a lifetime with the release of his debut single.

Cold the cause of Montrose Basin geese decline

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Geese numbers on Montrose Basin have dropped as low as 4500 over the last two months as sub-zero temperatures continue to drive the birds south.

Benefits of V&A 'milestone' for Dundee

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:22:00 +0000

The financial commitment made by the Scottish Government means the V&A project can now appoint staff and progress with fund-raising, but it is also about raising public awareness outside of Dundee.

Review: Suzuki Swift 1.2

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 16:36:00 +0000

As a maker of reasonably competent cars that sell in moderate numbers, Suzuki is not a manufacturer that has generally troubled the thoughts of those who dish out car awards.

Charlie Taylor's Indian adventure offers the gift of hope

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 13:23:00 +0000

She's a Scottish celebrity hairdresser used to jetting into five-star resorts for glitzy award ceremonies. So what led Charlie Taylor to teach hairdressing to orphaned children in a remote village in India?

Hopes badger evidence will sett off wildlife exploration

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 14:17:00 +0000

This halo of dirt in the snow is evidence that an animal has been about.

Save The Free Beavers of the Tay Facebook group

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 06:02:00 +0000

Activists looking to save wild beavers living in Tayside have turned to the internet to bolster their campaign.

December a lean month for car sales across Scotland

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:31:00 +0000

December was a pretty awful month for Scotland's car industry.

Former Dundee College dance student leaps back in time

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:42:00 +0000

A former Dundee College dance student is back on his old stomping ground this week as Steven Martin trains at The Space with Retina, a Belgian dance company.

Muscle man Jamie Barr has a strong pull on Germans

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 08:02:00 +0000

A Fife muscle man is providing a strong pull for Germans to come to Scotland.

The Metropolitan Opera coming to Dundee, thanks to DCA

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 22:22:00 +0000

The Metropolitan Opera in New York may be six hours and thousands of miles away but thanks to the DCA it is readily accessible.

Adventurer David Hempleman-Adams to attempt Perth ascent again

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:03:00 +0000

One of Britain's greatest living adventurers is gearing up for his second attempt to reach Perth, after heavy snow forced him to cancel his much-anticipated talk last month.

St Andrews Museum secures exclusive Stanley Wong exhibition

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 19:12:00 +0000

St Andrews Museum will be the venue for an exclusive Scottish showing of a touring arts exhibition from January 22 to March 6.

Scottish Natural Heritage project catches just one beaver

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:58:00 +0000

Plans to capture wild beavers in Tayside are continuing despite little in the way of success so far.

Range Rover Evoque leads the pack of 2011's new releases

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 13:09:00 +0000

We'll have to wait until August for probably the most anticipated car of the year, the Range Rover Evoque.

Birds put on a bumper 2010 for Tayside's twitchers

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 12:22:00 +0000

Tayside twitchers enjoyed a record year in 2010 as rare and regular winged visitors flocked to the area.

Rocktalk takes a look ahead at an exciting year of albums, gigs and festivals

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 19:07:00 +0000

Happy New Year folks, welcome to the first Rocktalk column of 2011 which, if your glass is half-full, should be a great one.

Review: Volvo S60

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 16:29:00 +0000

I had my first drive of Volvo's handsome S60 in October, when the sun was still shining and all was well with the world

Photographer Colin Prior to help Centre for Mountain Studies celebrate milestone

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:56:00 +0000

The Centre for Mountain Studies at Perth College UHI is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a presentation by landscape photographer Colin Prior.

Dundee Rep to welcome new Mike Gibb play Doorways In Drumorty

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:25:00 +0000

A play by Mike Gibb — whose works include the Dundee-themed trilogy Mother of all the Peoples, Five Pound & Twa Bairns and Sunday Mornings On Dundee Law — will come to Dundee Rep on January 28.

Tax relief for games firms plea

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 06:59:00 +0000

THE UK Government has been urged to rethink its decision to drop tax relief for games firms — after it emerged a grant scheme has triggered a jobs boom in Texas.

Shoe obsession takes Lee to New York

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 06:08:00 +0000

A Dundee man's obsession with training shoes has won him a trip to New York to create a unique pair.

Howdee at the heart of country renaissance

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 21:22:00 +0000

When Jack White chooses Nashville, the home of country music, as the place to set up his Third Man record label, you can be assured that country music is going through something of a pop renaissance.

Pieman Maurice Irvine braced for demand after winning Scotch pie title

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 07:58:00 +0000

Pie makers from across the UK were in Dunfermline to take part in the World Scotch Pie Championships.

Sandi Thom to check in for Dundee hotel gig

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 06:17:00 +0000

Scottish songstress Sandi Thom is to play a "landmark" gig in Dundee next week to mark the launch of her new single this month.

Fairytale is a Beauty for Dundee Rep and Byre Theatre, despite setbacks

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:13:00 +0000

The tale of two Sleeping Beauties could have turned into something of a nightmare, but management at the Byre Theatre in St Andrews and Dundee Rep say they have been kept busy entertaining happy theatre-goers — the Fife theatre even beating its own box office record.

Zapped Tayside radio stations return

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:27:00 +0000

Three local radio stations in Tayside are back on the air after a lightning strike destroyed equipment.

In Our Name a success for editor Hazel Baillie

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:21:00 +0000

A Dundee film editor has proved that she is a cut above the rest after her first full feature film opened to rave reviews.

Big cat in Monifieth unlikely but not impossible, says Tayside Police expert

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:17:00 +0000

The possibility of a big cat roaming Monifieth is unlikely — but not impossible.

Prints in snow bring new claim of big cat sighting

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:44:00 +0000

The big freeze may have had its advantages — for big cat enthusiasts.

MBE recipient Mike Jeffries says award is for everyone at Act IV theatre group

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:56:00 +0000

The founder member of a Dundee-based theatre company which has raised more than £350,000 for charity has been awarded the MBE.

Mercedes' new C-Class full of goodies for 2011

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:14:00 +0000

The 2011 Mercedes Benz C-Class isn't an all-new car, but it has been heavily revised. There's reworked styling, a weight-saving aluminium bonnet, a more streamlined shape and revised engines with more power and better fuel economy.

Review: Audi A5 Sportback

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 11:42:00 +0000

For those of you unfamiliar with Audi's A5, it's a coupe that manages to be fabulously pretty in a grown-up way — low key and unostentatious.

Pets are not just for Christmas, says Scottish SPCA

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 21:02:00 +0000

Every year, we hear the same slogan — "A dog is for life, not just for Christmas" and the message doesn't just apply to people buying canines. It goes for cats, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters and any other pet that happens to be purchased as a present or last-minute treat for the family.

Which? calls for braking distances to be published

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 19:33:00 +0000

Consumer watchdog Which? has called for manufacturers to publish the average braking distance of their cars.

Perthshire artist Claudia Massie inspired by changing landscapes

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 17:23:00 +0000

The Perthshire landscape has provided inspiration for generations of artists, and Scottish painter Claudia Massie is no different. Nora McElhone met her to find out more about how her love for autumn and winter views translates on to the canvas.

Rocktalk picks its albums of 2010 — with help from some famous friends...

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 14:23:00 +0000

The traditional Rocktalk top albums of the year are here again — with a difference!

Sky's the limit at Stargazing Live events

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 06:37:00 +0000

People across Tayside and Fife can look to the stars in this new year as local astronomers team up with the BBC for a series of events.

Rocktalk takes a look back at a flat year for music

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 20:32:00 +0000

It's becoming a bit of a recurring theme, this depressing review of the year lark.

Glenshee Ski Centre celebrating a successful season — already

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:50:00 +0000

Bosses at one of Scotland's top ski centres are celebrating the best start to the season in decades.

Scots singers Dougie MacLean and Annie Lennox to receive New Year OBEs

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:25:00 +0000

Two iconic Scottish singers are among those to receive awards in the New Year honours list.

Keb Darge ready for the 'oomph' of a Hogmanay Reading Rooms crowd

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 11:29:00 +0000

The Reading Rooms has an extra-special guest DJ for Hogmanay, in the shape of rockabilly/northern soul legend Keb Darge.

Eagle is reunited with mother

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 07:50:00 +0000

A young white-tailed eagle has been reunited with its mother on the Isle of Mull having recovered from a broken wing and leg.

Call to ensure that variable road signs give the right message

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:16:00 +0000

Variable message boards on roads across the country must be used better in severe weather, according to a politician.

Byre Theatre's new box office fit for a dame

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 16:35:00 +0000

Fairy Kylie left the Byre Theatre's stage for a while to cast her heavily made-up eyes over the venue's new box office.

Life full of surprises for Arbroath pantomime star

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 10:58:00 +0000

In her own words, Donna Hazelton's life "truly began" at 40. Little more than six years ago, the Leven mother-of-five was working as a box office assistant at the Byre Theatre in St Andrews and showcasing her musical talent via various amateur musical societies in Fife and Dundee.

Angus and Perthshire grouse moors record a mixed year

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 07:17:00 +0000

Angus grouse moors have recorded a 2010 season to celebrate with reports of bumper bags and a welcome economic spin-off for the local glens.

Stella Reilly wins young songwriter of the year competition

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:30:00 +0000

A Perthshire pupil tipped to become Scotland's next big singing sensation nearly missed news of her latest success — after her puppy chewed her phone.

Goodbye Idlewild... after a visit to Fat Sam's

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 19:19:00 +0000

Idlewild announced they're taking a break, and it could be up to eight years before we see another album from the Edinburgh band.

Ford Focus ready to roll out from March

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 16:02:00 +0000

The new Ford Focus will cost just under £16,000 when it goes on sale in March. Initially, it will be available as a five-door hatch only, with a bigger estate version arriving in September.

Former Monkees star Micky Dolenz puts on Hairspray

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 10:12:00 +0000

There's no better way to enjoy the festive season than watching a bunch of performers singing and dancing their hearts out on stage and that's exactly why actor and musician Micky Dolenz is here in Scotland.

Review: BMW X3

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 20:20:00 +0000

The old X3 was a rare case of BMW making a car that was unspectacular, so when John Clark BMW in Dundee loaned me the all-new version for the weekend, I was keen to see just how far the improvements went.

Swinney hails new contract bid app

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 17:16:00 +0000

A smart phone application designed by a Dundee firm is playing a "key role" in saving public sector money, Scotland's finance secretary said.

Cyber security brought into focus

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 12:47:00 +0000

Cyber security has become a very real issue for countries everywhere and the University of Abertay in Dundee is at the forefront of
investigations into everything from hacking to terrorism and digital forensics. Jennifer Cosgrove found out more.

Signs in the snow reveal nature's struggle for survival

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 09:59:00 +0000

Snow has been useful in revealing the unusual habits of wildlife.

The gift that keeps on giving...

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 09:30:00 +0000

Working over the festive season is never fun but two scientists who found themselves stuck in the lab on Christmas Day 20 years ago put their time to good use — by changing the world forever.

Family fun with traditional games

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 08:55:00 +0000

Spending your first Christmas with your 'in-laws' can be a baptism of fire, especially when you are transported from one family's traditional world of after-dinner games to another's.

You say Santa Claus, they say Sinterklaas — Christmas around Europe

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 06:59:00 +0000

Santa be the name on everyone's lips at the moment, but around the continent that jolly round man with the bushy white beard and red suit is known by a variety of different aliases, forming part of a host of contrasting festive traditions and customs.

Prepare to be Thunderstruck by AB/CD

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:09:00 +0000

Counterfeit hard-rock heroes AB/CD will play their Christmas show at Fat Sam's on Monday.

Too frosty for horses at Fife Foxhounds' festive hunt

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:19:00 +0000

Fife foxes can sleep easily in their dens this year after the traditional Boxing Day hunt was cancelled due to the weather.

Opportunity to join DCA's board of trustees

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 07:19:00 +0000

Dundee Contemporary Arts, Scotland largest centre for contemporary arts and media, is seeking additional members to join its board of trustees.

Speedier internet boost for Montrose

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 16:50:00 +0000

Over 6700 homes and businesses in Montrose now have access to faster broadband, following an upgrade to the BT system.

Minute of madness nears for shopping

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 09:54:00 +0000

If you are one of the many people who stop off at the supermarket for a pint of milk on the way home from work, you may want to think again tonight.

BBC Alba announcement comes with radio coverage proviso

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 07:26:00 +0000

The BBC's Gaelic TV channel is to be made available on Freeview, it has been announced.

Four new names shortlisted for Angus Book Awards

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 09:10:00 +0000

The 16th staging of the Angus Book Awards was launched during the week.

Pegg and Frost's Paul is Dundee animator's big break

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 20:48:00 +0000

The makers of a highly-anticipated new film have drawn on the talents of a Dundee animator to help bring their latest movie to the big screen.

Dundee Rep unveils packed spring schedule

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 20:27:00 +0000

Dundee Rep's spring season ranges the world from the banks of the Tay to imperial Russia.

Jonathan Horowitz's Minimalist Works from the Holocaust Museum at DCA

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 13:46:00 +0000

Dundee Contemporary Arts has described its latest exhibition as a "coup" — and why not? It is now the first public institution in the UK to grant a solo exhibition to New York-based artist Jonathan Horowitz. Jennifer Cosgrove went along to find out more.

New website puts St Andrews on the online map

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 11:50:00 +0000

A website which acts as a one-stop shop for visitors to St Andrews has been awarded a global accolade.

Blink-182 to rock next year's T in the Park

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 07:57:00 +0000

Festival-goers will be celebrating All The Small Things after pop-punk legends Blink-182 confirmed they will be appearing at T in the Park, near Kinross, in 2011.

Perth's Bethlehem Experience a real family affair

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 20:41:00 +0000

A Perthshire infant will make his acting debut in front of thousands at this weekend's Bethlehem Experience.

Alhambra Theatre bags a REAL ugly sister for its Cinderella pantomime

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:55:00 +0000

Dunfermline FC legend Jim Leishman is set to be a huge draw for this year's panto at the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline.

East Fife Crusoe film updates a famous story

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 17:55:00 +0000

The Regent Community Cinema in Leven has played host to a film premiere about a modern-day Robinson Crusoe.

Tag Games' Doctor Who release soars up the App Store charts

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:35:00 +0000

A Dundee software company looks to have scored a chart smash thanks to Doctor Who.

Wild invaders cost Scotland £251 million a year

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 06:51:00 +0000

Grey squirrels and other non-native species are costing the Scottish economy £251 million a year and £1.7 billion throughout the whole of Britain, according to a new report.

Call to assist the elderly with digital switchover

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 06:17:00 +0000

The manager of a local centre for the elderly is appealing for someone to come up with a device to help older people regain control of their televisions.

Young songwriter title in Stella Reilly's sights

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:59:00 +0000

A Perthshire teenager is bidding to be the next Scottish music sensation by winning the title of Young Songwriter of the Year.

Updated Vauxhall Antara comes with new looks and lower price

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 19:47:00 +0000

Vauxhall has facelifted its Antara — and dropped the price by £3000. Now costing under £20,000, the car gets a new nose, with an updated front grille that incorporates the new Vauxhall logo.

Prom on the lawn to make welcome return to Glamis Castle

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 06:21:00 +0000

After a year's absence, one of the most popular events on the Angus summer calendar is set to make a return in 2011.

Writer Liz Strachan adds to literary success

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:00:00 +0000

A retired Angus maths teacher has spoken of her delight after being shortlisted for a major literary prize eventually won by renowned author Bill Bryson.

Mountaineering council launches safety lectures

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 09:10:00 +0000

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) has launched its winter safety lecture series.

Warning after holiday email scam attempt

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 19:25:00 +0000

People being warned of a scam, after a Perth woman's email account was hacked while she was on holiday in America.

Skiers conquer Lomonds to fulfil ambition

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 13:34:00 +0000

A dynamic duo have fulfilled a long-held ambition, thanks to the heavy snowfall.

The View to sell memorabilia for Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 07:52:00 +0000

Fans of The View are being given the chance to get their hands on some Dundee music history after the band announced they are holding a charity Christmas merchandise sale.

Geoff Holder's journey into Dundee's sinister side

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:19:00 +0000

A Perthshire author has made a spine-chilling journey into the dark side of Dundee.

No proof of video games addiction, claims Abertay University expert

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:12:00 +0000

A leading academic has said there is no proof that video games can be dangerously addictive.

Russian ice skaters in Dunfermline for Peter Pan adaptation

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 07:40:00 +0000

The Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline is staging an adaptation of J. M. Barrie's story Peter Pan, the first show of its kind in Fife.

Review: Audi Q7

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 20:18:00 +0000

It's been a couple of years since I've driven one, so I'd forgotten just how big Audi's Q7 is. It's like piloting a small island.

Polar explorer defeated by Scotland's Arctic conditions

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:18:00 +0000

Britain's "greatest living adventurer", who has conquered the highest peaks and battled to both poles, has had to cancel a visit to Perth — due to the weather.

AA issues advice for motorists heading back out on to the roads

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:18:00 +0000

Snow and ice present enough difficulties for drivers but, as the freeze continues, motorists are being made aware of another problem.

Turner Prize winner Susan Philipsz 'a good friend to Dundee'

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 11:32:00 +0000

The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design graduate who has won this year's Turner Prize says her achievement "still hasn't sunk in yet."

North is still too cold for geese

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:14:00 +0000

They flew to Scotland to escape the bitter winters of Iceland and Greenland, but pink-footed geese are still finding northern Scotland too cold.

Sleeping Beauty is Dundee Rep's Christmas treat

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 21:21:00 +0000

It's December, the snow has already made an appearance and the tree is up in the City Square — so it must be time for the Christmas show at Dundee's Rep Theatre.

Stuart Murdoch opens door to The Celestial Cafe

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 20:34:00 +0000

"I was asked by Pomona to compile my diaries for a book, and I thought, 'Why would I do that?' Then I thought, Why not?'" — Stuart Murdoch of Belle & Sebastian talking about the reason why he is launching his debut tome, The Celestial Cafe, this month.

Work to arrest Broughty Ferry beach erosion begins

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:55:00 +0000

Rock armour protection works to repair the effects of erosion at Broughty Ferry beach will start this week.

Tribute to Loch of the Lowes osprey flies off the shelves

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:51:00 +0000

After months of planning and anticipation, the long-awaited tribute to Scotland's most famous osprey has flown off the shelves before it has even reached them.

Artists donate works in support of Eyeless Trust

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 17:17:00 +0000

A chance encounter while undergoing sight-saving treatment at Ninewells Hospital has prompted a Tayside artist to raise funds for children with a rare medical condition.

Arbroath arts centre Hospitalfield House given £15,000 funding

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 16:20:00 +0000

Hospitalfield House in Arbroath has been awarded £15,000 to develop its provision of arts events.

Boy soprano Jack Gall gives Christmas a Latin twist

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 14:50:00 +0000

The extraordinary efforts of a young Perth singer have ensured there is a musical alternative to the X-Factor winner's warblings or novelty festive number this Christmas.

Dundee designers up for Jolomo award

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 13:17:00 +0000

A young designer and a silversmith from Dundee have been shortlisted for an award.

Dundee Rep's Sleeping Beauty cast ensure it will be all white on the night

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 12:23:00 +0000

There is no business like snow business! Or at least that's what the cast of Dundee Rep's latest show have found out.

T in the Park Earlybirds snap up tickets

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 08:38:00 +0000

Thousands of music fans have snapped up all T in the Park Christmas Earlybird tickets within hours of them going on sale on Friday.

Scone Palace to host 80s Rewind Festival

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:47:00 +0000

The Human League, Boy George, Heaven 17, ABC, Marc Almond, Midge Ure, 10CC, Tony Hadley, Toyah and... Perth's own Fiction Factory.

Foo Fighters to break out at T in the Park

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:43:00 +0000

T in the Park fans were given a ray of sunshine against the cold weather with the announcement that Foo Fighters will headline next summer's festival at Balado.

St Johnstone mug a 'tribute' to Taggart star Colin McCredie

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:57:00 +0000

Perth actor Colin McCredie may have been controversially axed from long-running detective show Taggart, but his former co-star Blythe Duff is ensuring his legacy lives on, thanks to his famed mug.

Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame awards

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:38:00 +0000

Some of the biggest names in music are to be honoured in Perth this weekend when they are inducted into the prestigious Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame.

Meffan Museum's Winter Exhibition winners announced

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:27:00 +0000

A sparkling array of Angus artistic talent has gone on display in the Winter Exhibition at the Meffan in Forfar.

Bill Gibb-inspired dress donated to Aberdeen gallery

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 19:47:00 +0000

An aspiring fashion designer from Newport studying at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen has donated an outfit inspired by a north-east designer to Aberdeen Art Gallery.

Scottish Wildlife Trust names Mark Beaumont as its new ambassador

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:15:00 +0000

Scotland's largest voluntary body working to preserve the country's wildlife has revealed its new ambassador. Jennifer Cosgrove talked to Mark Beaumont to find out more.

Darius Cartier makes Hullabaloo for AIDS charity

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:18:00 +0000

A St Andrews University student aims to storm the charts with the release of the official World AIDS Day single, which he wrote and performed himself.

Children's tale Stickleback Road becomes a reality

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:01:00 +0000

The birth of her first grandchild this year has prompted an Angus writer to publish a story she first dreamt up for her own offspring.

Review: Ford Galaxy Titanium X

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 15:32:00 +0000

I'm driving up the A9 to Aviemore in the dark and rain. There's five of us in the car, and a ton of luggage and food in the boot to see us through a weekend away. Sat high up, I've got a good view of oncoming traffic and thanks to the heated seats, I'm feeling quite cosy.

Lindsey Miller's theatre success began with Jerry Springer production

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 13:17:00 +0000

A young Angus woman has celebrated her first hit in London's theatre world after a meteoric rise to the west end with the help of Jerry Springer.

Outdoors types encouraged to sign up for 999 text service

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 11:31:00 +0000

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) is urging everyone who walks, climbs and skis in the Scottish mountains to register with a new 999 emergency text service.

Byre Theatre seeking help from friends

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 18:51:00 +0000

The Byre Theatre in St Andrews is appealing to its supporters to put their money where their mouths are to help it win a festive funding boost.

Hideout party to celebrate Electrode's third birthday

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:49:00 +0000

Dundee's Electrode club night is three years old this weekend and the guys are hosting a special birthday night at The Hideout, Abertay Union, on Saturday.

Artificial moon a Perth Concert Hall team effort

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:12:00 +0000

It was all hands on deck at Perth Concert Hall as staff heeded a call for help.

Dundee Mountain Film Festival welcomes Everest climber Cathy O'Dowd

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:06:00 +0000

In 1999, Cathy O'Dowd became the first woman to climb Everest from its south and north sides. The feat was not accomplished without a price — one attempt on the summit had to be abandoned after a failed attempt to rescue a dying American woman who had succumbed to conditions. Ahead of her appearance at the Dundee Mountain Film Festival, Cathy talked to Jack McKeown about life and death in the mountains.

Calum McCrimmon brings Man's Ruin to Duke's Corner

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:54:00 +0000

Dundee-based Calum McCrimmon is a rock legend in piper's clothing.

Ian M. Banks starts series of Sci-Fife events

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:52:00 +0000

Famous Fife author Iain M. Banks came back to the region to launch a series of events dedicated to science fiction.

Dundee gig for Albert Lee and Hogan's Heroes

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 21:59:00 +0000

Grammy award-winning guitarist Albert Lee announced himself as a guitar hero during his time playing with British rockers Heads Hands & Feet, before living a dual existence either side of the Atlantic.

Rothes Halls farewell for Sergeant

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 20:31:00 +0000

It's the end of a hugely exciting era for Fife music when Sergeant play their last-ever gig at Rothes Halls in Glenrothes on Friday night.

DCA hosts Steven Severin's French fantasy

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 19:45:00 +0000

Silent movie fans and music lovers can see the two genres come together during a performance by a post-punk pioneer in Dundee.

Review: The Gaslight Anthem at HMV Picture House, Edinburgh

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 18:58:00 +0000

Every once in a while a band comes along that grabs your soul and you instantly know they are destined for great things, and so it will be for The Gaslight Anthem, I predict.

Competition: win tickets to see Jenny and Johnny at Fat Sam's

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 16:44:00 +0000

Jenny and Johnny — the new project from Rilo Kiley's Jenny Lewis and acclaimed singer-songwriter Johnathan Rice — are on tour and come to Fat Sam's on Monday.

Mark Thomson was driven to write bus poem Thi 20:09 ti Buchanan Street Bus Station

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 18:31:00 +0000

What would happen if all of Scotland’s most famous sons and daughters, past and present, got on a bus together?

Tag Games bringing Doctor Who to iPhone and iPad

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:44:00 +0000

The Tardis will soon be materialising on iPhones after a Dundee company became Doctor Who's latest companion on his adventures through time and space.

Digital changes thought key to video games industry's volatility

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:37:00 +0000

Dundee games firm Realtime Worlds was one of 131 British developers to go out of business over the last two years, a new survey has revealed.

Review: Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, at Clyde Auditorium

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:41:00 +0000

We all have odd little musical likes and dislikes that seem to be far removed from our normal fare.

Aberfeldy hosts Scottish mountain rescue conference

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:21:00 +0000

Mountain rescue teams from across the country met in Highland Perthshire for a major conference.

Fearless Fifer Gordon Shaw wants to row to the North Pole

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 21:34:00 +0000

Going to the North Pole in a rowing boat is not most people's idea of fun, but that is exactly what one fearless Fifer plans to do next year.

Montrose exhibition by landscape artist David Cook

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 17:47:00 +0000

An exhibition by Mearns landscape painter David Cook has opened at Taylors auction rooms in Montrose.

Dundee Mountain Film Festival peaks with expert climbers

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 17:20:00 +0000

French climbing legend Catherine Destivelle leads the line-up at this year's Dundee Mountain Film Festival.

Felicity Martin's novel approach to launch walking guide

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Perthshire author Felicity Martin took an unusual approach when launching her latest walking guide in Pitlochry.

Review: Renault Kangoo

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 13:26:00 +0000

About to rush out of the door? Then I will keep this brief — the Renault Kangoo is very ugly but very practical. For those with time to sit down and read the next 500 words, here goes...

Special Fabia vRS S2000 to mark Skoda's rally triumph

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 22:06:00 +0000

A special-edition Skoda Fabia is being launched to celebrate the company's dominance of this year's Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

Phantom comes to the aid of Caird Hall organ

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 20:17:00 +0000

A group that aims to protect one of Dundee's historic cultural jewels is preparing to host a ghostly event in the city later this month.

Barnetts celebrates Mazda milestone

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 19:15:00 +0000

Dundee car sales company Barnetts has celebrated its 30th anniversary as the city's Mazda dealer.

Photographs of HMS Topaze's journey sell for £54,000

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 17:41:00 +0000

A photograph album charting the 1866-69 voyage of HMS Topaze in the South Pacific has been sold for £54,000 at Taylors Auctions in Montrose.

Davina Farquharson becomes an international recording artist — at 67

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 16:11:00 +0000

Singing OAP Davina Farquharson has fulfilled a lifelong dream with the release of her first album, which has already reached an international audience.

Range Rover confirms five-door Evoque

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:09:00 +0000

Range Rover's fascinating new Evoque will also come in a five-door version, the company has revealed.

SUV market in Ssangyong sights

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 12:11:00 +0000

SsangYong, the least well-known and most oddly named of the Korean manufacturers doing business over here, are to release a mid-size SUV to take on the Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Alhambra Theatre reaches ticket sales milestone

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 19:38:00 +0000

The Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline has announced it has sold 100,000 tickets this year, a sales record for the resurrected theatre.

Conn Iggulden reveals another dangerous boy

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:37:00 +0000

Genghis Khan was the greatest and most brutal warlord the world has ever seen.

Additional T in the Park tickets to go on sale

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 09:57:00 +0000

T in the Park's organiser DF Concerts and founding partner Tennent's Lager have announced a limited number of tickets for next year's festival will go on sale from 9am on December 3.

Cap placed on unpaid wages due to individual Realtime Worlds staff

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 06:49:00 +0000

A limit has been put on money owed to ex-Realtime Worlds workers by the collapsed video games firm.

Osprey bloggers enjoy Loch of the Lowes pilgrimage

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:43:00 +0000

A pilgrimage of sorts was made by a group of osprey bloggers to Loch of the Lowes, the home of Scotland's most famous bird of prey.

Scottish SPCA appeal to leave seal pups alone

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 06:51:00 +0000

The Scottish SPCA is urging people to leave seal pups alone this winter unless they are sick, injured or obviously orphaned.

Broughty Operatic Society presents Me And My Girl

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 20:52:00 +0000

It's a big jump from the timid, would-be actor Francis Fryer of last year's Calamity Jane to the street-wise, wise-cracking, cockney rebel that is Bill Snibson of Me And My Girl, Broughty Operatic's next production. Nevertheless, Thomas Richmond has taken it all in his stride.

Los Angeles showcase for Nissan's Murano CrossCabriolet

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 20:17:00 +0000

By cutting the roof off the Murano, Nissan have developed the world's first four-wheel-drive crossover convertible.

Royal Scottish National Orchestra musicians start Rachel House residency

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 18:51:00 +0000

A pioneering residency will be music to the ears of youngsters at Kinross hospice Rachel House.

Hyundai franchise added to Arnold Clark dealership

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:22:00 +0000

Car dealer Arnold Clark has been awarded a Hyundai franchise and will add it to the company's existing Renault dealership at its Kingsway East premises in Dundee.

Wages boost for former Realtime Worlds employees

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:41:00 +0000

Former employees of Dundee games company Realtime Worlds have been given a boost with the news that their outstanding wages and holiday pay claims will be met in full.

BMW confirms hybrid sports car

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:24:00 +0000

BMW has confirmed it will produce a plug-in hybrid sports car based on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept showcased at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

The mean and moody Jaguar XF

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:26:00 +0000

For those who like their Jaguars mean 'n' moody, there's a new Black Pack for the XF saloon.

Lifetime achievement honour for T in the Park's Geoff Ellis

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:24:00 +0000

Geoff Ellis, the man behind T in the Park and Scotland's foremost live music promoters DF Concerts, will be given a lifetime achievement honour at the UK Festival Awards.

Rich Hall presents the darker face of comedy

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:39:00 +0000

Edinburgh was missing a character this summer. Ordinarily, Rich Hall's lean figure, dressed mainly in black, can be seen striding up and down George Street, or sitting outside a café drinking coffee and chain-smoking cigarettes.

Top talent heads for Kirrie Festival

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:50:00 +0000

Top Scots music talent has been secured for a weekend concert as Kirrie Festival begins fund-raising for its 30th year in 2011.

Bright glow for conclusion of NEoN arts festival

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:01:00 +0000

The NEoN digital arts festival came to a spectacular end at the weekend when bands, DJs, artists and programmers converted two floors of the Greenmarket car park into a disco and gallery.

Jessica Ramm finds beauty in the material world

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 20:31:00 +0000

By her own admission, art is in Jessica Ramm's blood.

Up-and-coming bands View a big opportunity ahead

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 19:45:00 +0000

Two young Dundee bands are celebrating after hearing they've been given support slots for The View's upcoming tour.

Perth Theatre hosts Casey Campbell exhibition

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 18:58:00 +0000

Perth Theatre is playing host to the debut solo exhibition by award-winning local artist Casey Campbell.

Beating the cyber-bullies

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 18:21:00 +0000

It is a sad fact that around one in five young people has experienced bullying or "cyber" threats via the internet.

Youngsters' calendar to help Loch of the Lowes osprey project

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 16:46:00 +0000

A group of Tayside youngsters has backed a project aimed at tracking the first migratory journey of future generations of ospreys chicks at the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch of the Lowes Reserve.

Chance to tweak your twitching skills

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 15:39:00 +0000

Anyone who is unsure of the difference between a godwit and a dunlin, then staff at the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Montrose Basin visitor centre and reserve can help.

Canal dreams — crossing Scotland by paddle power

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 15:11:00 +0000

Walking across Scotland is a common pursuit that the majority of Scots probably manage at least once in their lifetimes. But have you ever considered paddling across the country?

Lexus CT 200h hybrid will take plenty of your green stuff

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 12:51:00 +0000

Lexus has revealed prices for its new CT 200h hybrid, the CT200h. And while the Audi A3 rival may be one of the greenest cars in its class, it's not going to be cheap.

October car sales figures paint worrying picture

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 10:53:00 +0000

The Scottish car industry is still far from back to full health. Figures released by the Society of Manufacturers and Traders reveal October was another month where sales were well down on last year.

Water scorpion found in north Fife could hold climate change clues

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 06:25:00 +0000

A Dundee College student has made a scientific breakthrough after finding a freshwater scorpion in north Fife.

Review: Audi A3 Sportback

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:18:00 +0000

It's been a long time since I've driven an A3, so, when Dundee Audi offered me a spin in one, I jumped at the chance.

Hurry if you want to enjoy the slow trip to Bruges

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:11:00 +0000

With the Rosyth-Zeebrugge ferry service sadly about to be lost to Fife, Leeza Clark grabbed the opportunity to set sail for Belgium and top up her chocolate supplies before it's too late.

AppJam Dundee award goes to iGiveADamn blood donor app

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 17:35:00 +0000

The winners of the UK's first AppJam have been announced after a 48-hour challenge in Dundee to produce the next killer app.

Faskally Wood's record-breaking enchantment

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 07:12:00 +0000

The first community-run enchanted forest has proved to be a record-breaking success, according to organisers.

Surprise stowaway is silky souvenir

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 06:04:00 +0000

A Dunfermline tourist got more than she bargained for when she started unpacking after a holiday in China.

A-Z tour brings Ash to Fat Sam's

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 21:58:00 +0000

It's been a year to relish for Ash as they wind towards the conclusion of their A-Z tour with a visit to Fat Sam's in Dundee on Friday night.

The Law bust out, in support of BBC Children In Need

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:29:00 +0000

The Law are back on the live scene in Dundee on Friday night, all in the name of charity.

Fat Sam's date for secret star Emeli Sande

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 18:54:00 +0000

She's possibly Scotland's best-kept musical secret. At the age of 22, Aberdonian songstress Emeli Sande has already had two top-10 singles and Cheryl Cole has recorded one of her songs for her solo album.

Google removes Street View images of Gordon Brown's house

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 07:32:00 +0000

Google has removed images of former prime minister Gordon Brown's Fife home from its Street View site.

Assemble and Leap to celebrate highland dancing's place in Scots culture

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 21:58:00 +0000

Through its unique blend of grace and power, and from foundations rooted deep in Scotland's history, highland dancing has become a truly global sport.

Hyundai offers options on new ix20

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 21:36:00 +0000

Hyundai's new ix20 mini-MPV goes on sale this November, with prices starting at £11,595.

Review: One Moment, One Morning by Sarah Rayner

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:41:00 +0000

One Moment, One Morning is an easy read, but not a ditsy chick lit book.

Volkswagen boots up new Jetta

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Volkswagen have unveiled their new Jetta, which will go on sale in early 2011.

Scottish dates for champion comedian Mark Watson

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:41:00 +0000

In 2002, not long after he'd done his first stand-up gig, Mark Watson won the Daily Telegraph Open Mic contest. The competition was then discontinued, allowing Mark to declare himself the all-time champion of comedy.

Developers working against the clock at AppJam Dundee

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:06:00 +0000

It's all app-ening at Discovery Point in Dundee this week as 30 software developers compete to create the best new products for the mobile, online, games and app industries.

Sally Magnusson makes a wee appearance

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:36:00 +0000

Broadcaster and writer Sally Magnusson visited Dundee University to read from her new book on the unlikely topic of urine.

Revised Renault Espace ready to arrive

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:58:00 +0000

The revised Renault Espace will be available for order from Monday, with prices ranging from £24,495-£28,495.

Chance to soar over the Dundee of tomorrow

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 08:02:00 +0000

Researchers at Abertay University have come up with a 3D visualisation tool to show how Dundee's central waterfront will be transformed in the coming years.

Idlewild's 100 Broken Windows album tour comes to Fat Sam's

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 20:48:00 +0000

Idlewild are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their classic album These Wooden Ideas by releasing a special edition, double CD version — and the promotional tour will bring them to Fat Sam's in Dundee.

Review: Skoda Superb Estate

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 17:55:00 +0000

The Skoda Superb Estate makes most large estate cars — and not a few luxury saloons — look a bit unnecessary.

NEoN 10 lights up Dundee

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:20:00 +0000

The international digital arts festival NEoN 10 has been launched in Dundee, with a range of quirky performance art on display.

Julian Lloyd Webber reveals his passions

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:50:00 +0000

The name Lloyd Webber is synonymous with all things musical and brothers Julian and Andrew are continuing to enjoy distinguished careers as performers and composers.

Review: Glamis Musicale

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 20:16:00 +0000

The sole aim of the Glamis Musicale is to showcase young aspiring musical talent, and over the years it has introduced many outstanding artistes from near and far.

Mobile broadband upgrade completed in Dundee

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:25:00 +0000

A £700,000 smartphone and mobile broadband network upgrade in the Dundee area has been completed by communications company Three UK.

Songwriter Stella Reilly on track for stardom

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:48:00 +0000

A talented teenager from Bridge of Earn has hit the right notes after making it through to the finals of a major national songwriting competition.

Kia Sportage named Scottish Car of the Year

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:15:00 +0000

Kia Sportage has been named Scottish Car of the Year at an awards ceremony in St Andrews.

Pictoplasma's monster mash heralds start of NEoN festival

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:35:00 +0000

No, Dundee has not been invaded by rampaging monsters. These big, hairy visitors are definitely friendly.

Sweeney Todd proves a cut above for Dundee Rep

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 08:29:00 +0000

Staff at Dundee Rep have been celebrating after their acclaimed production of Sweeney Todd was named best musical at the TMA awards.

Family take keys of groundbreaking eco house

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 21:12:00 +0000

A north-east Fife family have become the first in Britain to rent a style of eco-friendly house which could slash their power bills.

John Anderson and Rick Wakeman bring Project 360 tour to Perth

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 21:12:00 +0000

Passers-by at Perth Concert Hall on Sunday night may be forgiven for thinking the venue is hosting a belated Hallowe'en party — the theme being hairy old hippies and prog-rockers!

October's weather just as institute 'would expect'

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 17:58:00 +0000

October’s weather was "nothing out of the ordinary" according to experts at the Scottish Crop Research Institute.

St Andrews team preparing for trek to Everest base camp

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 15:37:00 +0000

A team of adventurous St Andrews University students are getting ready for a thigh-burning trek to the base camp of Mount Everest.

Mearns teacher wins arts award from Royal Scottish Academy

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 11:01:00 +0000

The talent of Catharine Davison, head of art at Lathallan School near Johnshaven, has been recognised at the 2010 Royal Scottish Academy Open Exhibition.

St Andrews railway poster sells for £11,250

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 08:02:00 +0000

A 1920s railway poster featuring golfers at St Andrews fetched £11,250 at Christie's in London.

Perth Concert Hall date for guitarist Tommy Emmanuel

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 20:41:00 +0000

There's a fantastic concert featuring two of the world's great guitarists, Australian Tommy Emmanuel and Scotland's own Martin Taylor, at Perth Concert Hall on Saturday.

UK Government urged to help games industry

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 17:10:00 +0000

The UK Government has been warned it must take immediate action to encourage the growth of the games industry after it was revealed one in 10 jobs in the sector have been lost since 2008.

Bob Servant author Neil Forsyth gives lecture

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:08:00 +0000

Broughty Ferry writer Neil Forsyth visited Dundee University to deliver a lecture on his latest book, Bob Servant — Hero Of Dundee.

Scotland sees white-tailed sea eagles in strongest position

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:01:00 +0000

This year has proved a record-breaking year for the UK's largest bird of the prey, the white-tailed sea eagle.

Tayside to pilot police online system

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 07:27:00 +0000

Tayside Police is set to pilot a new system that allows the public to engage online with its officers.

Review: Fallout 3 New Vegas (Xbox 360)

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 21:43:00 +0000

Having invested a hefty number of hours in Fallout 3, Bethesda Studios' franchise reboot, genre fans are in schedule-clearing mood for its sequel of sorts, New Vegas. Can Obsidian, members of which worked on the first two titles, leave its mark on the franchise?

Saab's spike in fortunes looks set to continue with 9-4X

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 21:29:00 +0000

Saab continues its remarkable comeback from the brink with news that it's to release a Freelander and BMW X3 rival.

Come home to Broken Records

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 20:31:00 +0000

Move over Mumford & Sons, Arcade Fire etc — Broken Records are coming. The Edinburgh indie-folk band have just released their second album, Let Me Come Home.

Renault cuts prices with latest Laguna

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:23:00 +0000

The 2011 Renault Laguna is available to order now and costs from £17,795 — a reduction of £1855 on the previous entry-level model.

Jen Robson's work seen in Blood and Roses at Tron Theatre

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:21:00 +0000

A Dundee artist is gaining national recognition after her work was chosen to be at the forefront of a successful Scottish play.

Guy Fawkes revellers asked to look out for hedgehogs

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:25:00 +0000

With Guy Fawkes night this week, people planning to celebrate with a bonfire are urged to watch out for hedgehogs.

Review: Peugeot RCZ

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:43:00 +0000

I was giving a talk to the nice gentlemen at Abertay Probus Club — life of a motoring journalist and all that — and a few of them stopped to admire the Peugeot RCZ on our way out.

Book tells story of a life of climbing adventures

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 20:39:00 +0000

A Blairgowrie man who was inspired by his grandchildren to turn his recollections of climbing Munros into a book has had his work published.

Festival rekindles Bon Scott's Kirriemuir legacy

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 19:12:00 +0000

AC/DC fans from all over the UK and beyond journeyed to Angus to take part in a tribute to one of Kirriemuir's most famous sons.

'Mr Telecaster' Albert Lee comes to Tayside

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:03:00 +0000

Grammy award-winning guitarist Albert Lee is set to perform in Kinross and Dundee during his tour of the UK.

Pipers and fiddlers vie for Glenfiddich crown

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 16:32:00 +0000

The hills of Perthshire were resounding to the skirl of the pipes at the weekend as finalists in the Glenfiddich Piping Championships fought it out for the coveted title of Champion of Champions 2010.

The Skids mark last stand in aid of Help for Heroes

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:50:00 +0000

Former punk rock band The Skids have revisited their home town for the official release of their DVD.

CaniX runners bring sport to Lochore Meadows

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:55:00 +0000

Dogs took the lead as one of the oddest but fastest-growing sports in the country arrived in Fife at the weekend.

Dan and Peter Snow to give talk about TV careers

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 14:48:00 +0000

Veteran broadcaster Peter Snow and his son Dan will talk about their lives in television broadcasting at Pitlochry Festival Theatre on Friday, November 12.

William Hackstoun's St Andrews watercolour found 100 years on

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 19:11:00 +0100

A painting of a St Andrews street by a Fife artist has been discovered exactly 100 years after its creation.

River clearance programme starts at Bridge of Mondynes

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 16:24:00 +0100

A major river clearance programme has started in the Mearns. Over £1 million worth of heavy equipment is on site at Bridge of Mondynes to clear sediment from the Bervie water to prevent further risk of flooding.

Tales of a Social Castaway retold for new century

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 15:48:00 +0100

A book that has its origins in the 19th century has been launched at the City Chambers in Dunfermline.

Highland Perthshire the backdrop for new Revolution cycle challenge

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 14:51:00 +0100

A new cycling challenge is being lined up in Highland Perthshire in April.

Mearns organist Alexander Jones wins acclaim for US performance

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 14:23:00 +0100

A young Mearns organist has won acclaim in the US after a guest appearance at a church in Arkansas.

Dundee Literary Festival's autumn taster whets the appetite

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 20:34:00 +0100

Dundee Literary Festival has been successfully steered into its new winter berth as its impressive expansion continues, writes Norman Watson.

Online equipment auction rubs salt in the Realtime Worlds wounds

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:42:00 +0100

Hundreds of thousands of pounds' worth of top-of-the-range computer systems owned by defunct Dundee video games firm Realtime Worlds are being sold off for bargain prices at auction.

Ex-Realtime Worlds employees contest written-off PC and relocation loans

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:09:00 +0100

The administrators dealing with collapsed Dundee video games firm Realtime Worlds have been criticised for failing to give former employees full redundancy payments.

Project: Myworld sold for a song — significant investment still needed

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 11:41:00 +0100

The final details of the sale of Realtime's Project: MyWorld have been confirmed as papers related to the sale revealed Kimble Operations, established by former Realtime chairman Ian Hetherington, paid £1.137 million for the venture on September 2.

Take That fan shows plenty of patience — but nobody else stays up all night

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 11:11:00 +0100

Their comeback single was entitled Patience — and Kirkton woman Susan Handy was planning to draw on plenty of that as she settled down for a long wait outside a Dundee record store, hoping to bag tickets for one of Take That's gigs at Hampden Park.

A word with comedian Sean Lock

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 19:31:00 +0100

Ahead of appearances in Dundee, Kirkcaldy and Perth, veteran of the comedy circuit Sean Lock talks to Jennifer Cosgrove about his signature style and his indifference to the internet.

Scotland's national forests 'not for sale' — Roseanna Cunningham

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 17:42:00 +0100

Reports claiming the majority of Britain's national forests are to be sold off are "total nonsense and wide of the mark," environment minister Roseanna Cunningham said.

Mixed report on Scottish police services provision

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:59:00 +0100

The body that provides support services to Scotland's eight police forces faces "significant challenges" delivering high quality services with less money, the watchdog Audit Scotland has revealed.

AppCon organiser urges developers to grab mobile opportunity

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:53:00 +0100

Small computer games companies creating mobile phone applications can fill the gap left in Dundee's digital economy by the collapse of giants like Realtime Worlds, an industry expert says.

Kirriemuir tunes up for BonFest 2010

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:19:00 +0100

Kirriemuir's legacy of riches left by its famous artistic sons is set to see the global spotlight shine on Angus again in the days and months ahead.

A new radio home for uncivil Bob Servant

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:33:00 +0100

Neil Forsyth made his name writing about one of Britain's youngest credit card fraudsters. His next book, adapted into a radio show beginning on Friday, invented an alter ego who tackled internet fraud. Neil told Jack McKeown about his delight at landing Hollywood actor Brian Cox for the main role.

Hospitalfield House to examine art and the paranormal

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:09:00 +0100

A 'talk and tapas evening' at Hospitalfield House in Arbroath on Sunday will adopt a Hallowe'en flavour with a presentation entitled Art And The Paranormal.

Tentsmuir Forest area gets new orientation

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 15:44:00 +0100

The forest, nature reserve and estuary that make up the north-east tip of Fife are to be promoted as a single destination to help visitors enjoy them.

Alan Warner returns to Dundee Literary Festival

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:33:00 +0100

Author Alan Warner will get the Dundee Literary Festival's autumn programme under way this afternoon when he reads from his novel Stars In The Bright Sky.

Doubts about cyber-bullying drive's effectiveness

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:19:00 +0100

Angus Council's education convener has expressed doubts over the effectiveness of a campaign which Scotland's largest teaching union hopes will help eradicate cyber-bullying of its members.

Creative Scotland funding decision worsens Byre Theatre's anxiety

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 09:42:00 +0100

A Fife theatre's future remains under threat after it failed to convince Scotland's arts body to reinstate vital funding.

Study into seal deaths points to ships' propellers

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 06:53:00 +0100

A spate of mysterious seal deaths is being blamed on boats rather than sharks.

Review: A Doll's House, at Dundee Rep

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 19:50:00 +0100

Jemima Levick's Doll's House is a paean to style, writes Joy Watters. The Rep's associate director has taken Henrik Ibsen's groundbreaking work of 1879 and updated it to the 1950s, drawing a parallel between the two periods and the barriers that women had to break through and the attitudes they had to combat in a male-dominated society.

Aberdeenshire library pictures available to public

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:12:00 +0100

A library of professional photographs taken around Aberdeenshire has been made available to the public.

Students take ghoulish delight in their work

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:43:00 +0100

Dundee College make-up students have been going from glamorous to ghoulish thanks to a crash course in special effects make-up.

NEoN digital arts festival names Chris van der Kuyl as host

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:21:00 +0100

Brightsolid's Chris van der Kuyl has been announced as the host of the upcoming North East of North (NEoN) international digital arts festival.

Insider alleges buyer for All Points Bulletin

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:52:00 +0100

A buyer may have been found for the ambitious game that was widely blamed for the collapse of Realtime Worlds, it has emerged.

The View's UK tour to stop off at Dunfermline's Velocity

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 22:16:00 +0100

The View are to play a Christmas gig at Dunfermline's Velocity on December 18.

New VW Passat is exactly that

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:51:00 +0100

The seventh generation Passat will start at £18,470 for the saloon and £19,745 for the estate.

Matt Schofield brings his award-winning blues guitar to Kinross

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 20:13:00 +0100

The UK Blues Guitarist of the Year, Matt Schofield, will play an intimate gig in Kinross next month.

Setting the scene for Leven stage extravaganza

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:47:00 +0100

Silverburn Park in Leven is hosting a week-long theatrical extravaganza on November 19.

Tay Descent racers ride rapids in bid for glory

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 12:34:00 +0100

Hundreds of colourful canoes sped down the River Tay at Perth on Saturday in a new calendar event.

Fife film fans welcome KINO Cinema

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 12:11:00 +0100

Eager film fans queued up outside the new KINO Cinema in Glenrothes to welcome the silver screen back to the town after 12 years.

Former Olympic athlete launches autobiography

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 14:17:00 +0100

Few books tie teaching at Madras College with competing in the 1972 Munich Olympics, but a St Andrews man's autobiography has done just that.

Dundee Literary Festival adds a winter's tale

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 12:38:00 +0100

Book lovers can look forward to a treat next week when they'll get a second helping of the Dundee Literary Festival, which is relaunching as a winter programme of events.

Worldwide interest in Dougie MacLean's Perthshire Amber

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 21:28:00 +0100

Organisers of a popular music festival have been left staggered by a recession-busting growth in ticket sales after a predicting a downturn this year.

Professor Iain Stewart Making Scotland's Landscape accessible

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 20:13:00 +0100

The Scottish landscape comes under the spotlight in the new season of programming by BBC Scotland. Jack McKeown talked to television geologist Professor Iain Stewart, who presents the landmark series Making Scotland's Landscape.

Jack Morrocco's brush with colour

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 19:05:00 +0100

Over the years, Jack Morrocco has been quietly working away and has gradually carved out a reputation as one of Scotland's finest contemporary painters. Ahead of a new solo exhibition, Jack McKeown met the artist at his studio in the Fife countryside.

Review: Volvo S60 D5 SE Lux Geartronic

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:31:00 +0100

What do we have here? A sexy Volvo. The Swedish car manufacturer has always been famed for safety, but sometimes this extended to the safety of its styling — nice, unadventurous box shapes.

Ray Mears to present medals to country's top geography students

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 17:09:00 +0100

Scotland's top geography students will receive special awards from survival expert Ray Mears when he visits Perth next week.

Crime writer Russel McLean a wanted man in USA

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 16:14:00 +0100

A local writer has returned from his book tour of the USA — where copies of the first edition of his Dundee-set crime novel have sold out.

St Andrews railway art up for auction

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 12:53:00 +0100

A 1920s railway poster of St Andrews is expected to sell for up to £8000 at auction next month.

Canoeists ready for Tay Descent on Perth

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 13:49:00 +0100

Around 400 canoeists are expected to descend on Perth via the River Tay this weekend as they take part in a new event.

Blake's Perth concert helps provide Houses for Heroes

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:57:00 +0100

A charity concert will be staged in Perth Concert Hall tonight by award-winning vocal quartet Blake with all proceeds going to provide homes fit for heroes.

New guide offers more reasons to visit Loch Leven

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 18:57:00 +0100

A special offers guide has been launched by Perth and Kinross Council in a bid to encourage more people to visit Loch Leven.

Review: Kia Venga

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:35:00 +0100

Kia have gone from strength to strength in recent years, and I no longer receive the keys to one with a clenched jaw and stoic heart.

Fat Sam's date for Eliza Doolittle

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 15:02:57 +0100

Indie-pop princess Eliza Doolittle is just a tad tired of comparisons to labelmate Lily Allen. And she has a point.

Armstrong and Miller come to the Caird Hall

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 21:16:00 +0100

Ben Miller and Alexander Armstrong are taking their BBC One sketch show on the road. Ahead of their Dundee performance this week, Jack McKeown caught up with one half of the Bafta-winning double act.

Space dance students return from Commonwealth Games

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:50:00 +0100

Four dance students from The Space at Dundee College may only be at the start of their careers but they have already performed on the global stage.

Hillwalkers urged to get kitted out for winter

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:43:00 +0100

Mountaineers been warned that the first icy blasts of winter this week should prompt a change in kit before taking to the Scottish mountains.

Drivers warned to steer clear of deer

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 06:40:00 +0100

Scottish National Heritage (SNH) has warned motorists collisions between deer and vehicles soar at this time of year, with the risk of a collision almost twice as high in Scotland as in England.

Abertay cyber course pioneer backs internet threats security strategy

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:35:00 +0100

The National Security Strategy has revealed that cyber attacks now pose as great a threat to the UK as acts of terrorism.

Discovery Film Festival animates crowds at DCA

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:29:00 +0100

Dundee Contemporary Arts is hosting Scotland’s biggest international film festival for young people. Packed with features and animations from around the world and workshops galore, Jennifer Cosgrove spoke to festival co-ordinator Katharine Simpson to discover what she's so excited about.

Dundee and Angus Chess Congress finishes with a flourish

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:27:00 +0100

UK chess enthusiasts gathered in Monifieth for the final night of the Dundee and Angus Chess Congress 2010 on Sunday.

NEoN festival build-up continues with creative writing workshops

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:13:00 +0100

Author Zoe Venditozzi held a series of creative writing workshops at Abertay University on Saturday as part of the run-up to the NEoN digital arts festival.

Laura Whyte's film Nursery Crimes has a lorra gore

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 14:41:00 +0100

A gore-filled take on a much-loved nursery rhyme has seen a Dundee University graduate nominated for a top horror film award.

Skeem Life book already a hit

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 12:15:00 +0100

Dundee street poet Gary Robertson's new book Skeem Life is flying off the shelves ahead of its official launch on Thursday.

Red squirrel on road to recovery at rescue centre

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 11:27:00 +0100

An injured red squirrel that was sniffed out by a dog is now recovering in Scottish SPCA care.

Review: F1 2010 (Xbox 360)

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 10:12:00 +0100

Codemasters follows up last year's Wii title, which was a lot of fun and looked beautiful. The developer has tried to get close as it can to a metallic, lean simulation of Formula 1 as is possible today, but does it have a soul under the hood?

Daisy Dundee exhibition turns lens on local music scene

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 20:34:00 +0100

Dexters hosts an event of a different kind this weekend when it opens its doors to the work of local photographer and friend of bands Daisy Dundee during its 10th anniversary celebrations.

Isle of May reserve manager Therese Alampo wings it to St Cyrus

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 19:10:00 +0100

Therese Alampo has a lot of neighbours to say goodbye to when she moves on to pastures new.

Whatever happened to the paperless society?

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 18:17:00 +0100

Up to his neck in the modern-day flood of bills, flyers, pamphlets and brochures, Grant Reid remembers being promised that it would all be so different.

Scottish Seabird Centre takes ship-to-ship opposition to Commons

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 15:35:00 +0100

Ship-to-ship transfers in the Forth would be "catastrophic" for local wildlife, the Scottish Seabird Centre has warned.

Children join Perth Theatre panto Aladdin's cast

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 19:02:00 +0100

A group of youngsters from across Perthshire entered a whole new world as they joined the cast of Perth's Christmas panto, Aladdin.

Strictly Come Dancing star Matt Baker's Highland Perthshire trip

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 06:33:00 +0100

A star of Strictly Come Dancing has fox-trotted his way to Highland Perthshire to sample some of its wildlife spectacles.

GCHQ chief Iain Lobban's comments show Abertay hacking skills' value — Dr Ian Ferguson

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:01:00 +0100

Computer security skills like those taught at Abertay University are on the frontline of a fight against a "real and credible" threat of cyber attack, a leading intelligence figure has said.

Scottish affairs select committee hears video games tax evidence

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:11:00 +0100

Dundee West MP Jim McGovern says the Scottish affairs select committee has been left in "no doubt" that the UK's economy would be hugely boosted if tax incentives were given to the video games industry.

Riverside Nature Park's beach 'danger'

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:54:00 +0100

Members of the public are to be discouraged from venturing on to a "dangerous" beach when a tract of unused land on Dundee's western fringes is opened to the public as a nature park.

Pond life not always good for our lochs

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 12:04:00 +0100

A campaign to protect Scotland's waterways from damage caused by invasive non-native plant species was launched on Tuesday.

Commons committee to hear about Dundee games industry

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 11:37:00 +0100

MPs will be told today that extra support must given to the video games industry in Dundee.

SSPCA's rescued sea eagle back in the wild

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 06:47:00 +0100

The Scottish SPCA had to step in to nurse a sea eagle which had been released into the wild only weeks ago as part of a programme to reintroduce the birds in Scotland.

Flying Flock called in to Montrose Basin grassland

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 16:09:00 +0100

A collection of sheep known as the Flying Flock are to become the star attractions at the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Montrose Basin Wildlife Reserve and visitor centre this weekend.

Mountain rescues prompt warning to walkers

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:15:00 +0100

Experts are issuing a warning to walkers after a weekend of drama on the Angus and Perthshire hills ended with five people having to be rescued.

Drovers' Tryst Walking Festival tourism hopes

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 16:06:00 +0100

The ninth annual Crieff and Strathearn Drovers' Tryst Walking Festival is under way as the area again looks to the past for a massive tourist boost.

Visitors get their teeth into Wild Connections festival

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 13:17:00 +0100

A fun festival designed to showcase Highland Perthshire's potential as a wildlife tourism destination began in Dunkeld and Birnam at the weekend.

Mearns estate fears poaching out of control

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 11:43:00 +0100

A Mearns landowner who has found the roe deer population decimated on his estate fears poaching is spiralling out of hand.

Alyth Den path put back on sure footing

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:51:00 +0100

Visitors to a Perthshire beauty spot will be able to appreciate it all the more thanks to a refurbishment project officially opened on Saturday.

Jaguar's electric C-X75 a real beauty

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 19:47:00 +0100

This is Jaguar's latest supercar, and it's electric!

Shed Seven in Fife Fest Christmas special

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 17:11:00 +0100

Fife promoters White Riot and Weekend Revolution have joined forces to bring Shed Seven to play a Fife Fest Christmas special gig at the Glen Pavilion in Dunfermline.

Autumn gold in Scotland

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 14:04:00 +0100

Scotland in the autumn is a pretty special place. The tourists have gone home, the weather's still quite good, and you can sometimes feel you have the whole country to yourself. Jack McKeown spent a few days touring some of the highlights.

Review: Ford S-Max

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 11:31:00 +0100

Ford has earned a reputation for creating people carriers that are more fun to drive than many of their competitors, and the 2010 version of the S-Max is no exception.

Burns unit's delicate conservation work

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 10:16:00 +0100

The book and paper Conservation Studio at Dundee University offers intensive care to precious paper objects. The studio recently claimed a conservation coup by being commissioned to care for a remarkable collection of books and manuscripts from the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. The team told Norman Watson about the unique challenges presented by the historic consignment.

Lost Vivaldi flute concerto Il Gran Mogol premiere in Perth

Sat, 09 Oct 2010 21:34:00 +0100

A lost Vivaldi flute concerto is to receive its modern world premiere in Perth.

Diverse line-up for StAnza poetry festival

Sat, 09 Oct 2010 20:09:00 +0100

Organisers of St Andrews' poetry festival have announced a diverse programme for next year's event.

Dundee Jazz Festival attracts stars

Sat, 09 Oct 2010 18:56:00 +0100

Three of the best-known musicians in their field are to headline this year's Dundee Jazz Festival.

TMA Theatre Award nomination for Dundee Rep

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 18:59:00 +0100

Dundee Rep has three nominations in the TMA Theatre Awards, which celebrate the best of theatre from around the UK.

Still going strong after 40 years — the Volkswagen Passat

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:32:00 +0100

It's been around for nearly 40 years, sold over 15 million units and shows no sign of falling out of favour with either the public or its maker. The seventh generation Volkswagen Passat was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show late last week.

Stonehaven real ale festival to welcome every brewery in the land

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 15:50:00 +0100

Every working Scottish brewery will be represented at Stonehaven's real ale festival next month.

Tellin' stories about The Charlatans

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 21:34:00 +0100

As Dundee prepares to welcome The Charlatans Rocktalk's Alan Wilson tells the band's amazing story.

Work to start on revitalising South Inch

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 20:12:00 +0100

Work to breathe new life into one of Perth's most popular parks is set to begin.

The Cundeez launch 'Oary Rock' genre with album

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 18:43:00 +0100

Dundee's favourite Dundonian band, The Cundeez, launch their album Cundee Radio at The Doghouse on Saturday night.

Hello I'm Johnny Cash's guitarist — Bob Wootton back in town

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:03:00 +0100

Earlier this year, Bob Wootton brought his unique guitar sound to the Whitehall Theatre for a truly wonderful night of Johnny Cash sounds.

Cooking up a storm

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:28:00 +0100

With live cookery television programmes and culinary festivals continuing to grow in popularity, it seems our interest in food preparation — and consumption — has never been greater.

Model presenter — Fiona Bruce

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 09:23:00 +0100

Sexy, intelligent, high flying, mother of two, and owner of the rear of the year — Fiona Bruce sounds too good to be true. But, as the Antiques Roadshow presenter discusses family and work, Jack McKeown finds her charms hard to resist.

Dudley D. Watkins' work fares well at auction

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 19:17:00 +0100

The sale at Dundee auctioneers Curr & Dewar on Tuesday was a celebration of local artefacts.

Our ten centos worth part of Poetry Day patchwork

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 16:24:00 +0100

It's National Poetry Day on Thursday, which means there will be events across Britain celebrating the power of the written word.

Prize-winners on show after Fife Art awards

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 19:36:00 +0100

Six Fifers are having their work displayed after taking the top accolades at the Fife Art awards.

Scam phone call prompts warning for computer users

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 14:31:00 +0100

Angus Council trading standards service has issued a warning to consumers on a new computer scam.

Big Country braced for return to the stage

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 11:47:00 +0100

Legendary 80s rockers Big Country are to return to the stage and music fans in Tayside and Fife are getting ready to join in the celebrations.

Chance to take part in Race to Infinity

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 23:04:00 +0100

BT wants householders and businesses in Tayside and Fife to get involved in a nationwide survey to gauge the demand for super-fast broadband.

WASPS creating a buzz with open weekend

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 19:52:00 +0100

Around 30 Dundee artists threw the doors of their studios open to the public on Saturday and yesterday for the WASPS Open Weekend.

Paul Murton books Grand Tours of Scotland

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 19:27:00 +0100

When filmmaker Paul Murton rediscovered a tattered copy of a Victorian guide to Scotland he decided to follow in the footsteps of the country's first tourists. The resulting programme, Grand Tours of Scotland, begins on BBC 1 on Wednesday.

A dead good read from Charlie Higson

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 17:01:00 +0100

Actor, comedian and writer Charlie Higson is probably best known for his antics on The Fast Show — alongside Paul Whitehouse as characters such as Swiss Toni, Lord Ralph Mayhew and Bob Fleming — however his gruesome children's fiction has proved a dead good read.

Police hunting poachers after snares found in Dundee

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:00:00 +0100

Tayside Police are hunting poachers who set a series of rabbit snares at a Dundee beauty spot at the weekend.

Realtime Worlds left debts of £48.8 million

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 07:37:00 +0100

Failed Dundee company Realtime Worlds left behind debts of almost £50 million when it collapsed, a report by administrator Begbies Traynor has revealed.

Record number of geese at reserve

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 16:06:00 +0100

A record number of pink-footed geese have arrived at Montrose Basin wildlife reserve.

Review: Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:34:00 +0100

Following her success with The Time Traveler's Wife, Niffenegger's latest offering is a modern ghost story in which she explores the themes of leaving, being left and crossing boundaries.

DJ's challenge to rivals round the world

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 15:15:00 +0100

A Dundee music producer last night challenged disc spinners around the globe to break his new world record for the longest non-stop DJ set.

Review: The Madness Of George III

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 14:28:00 +0100

This touring production from south of the border made its Scottish debut at Perth somewhat inauspiciously.

Marksist ideology — Dealing drugs Howard's way

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:01:00 +0100

At the height of his career, Howard Marks used these to smuggle consignments of up to 30 tons of marijuana from Asia to North America. After seven years in a US penitentiary he wrote the best-selling Mr Nice, which has now been turned into a film that will be released next week. Ahead of his appearance in Dundee, Jack McKeown spoke to the Oxford graduate-turned drug smuggler-turned national treasure.

Realtime Worlds boss was behind MyWorld buyout

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 10:12:00 +0100

The former chairman of Realtime Worlds (RTW) used a trading company set up prior to the firm's collapse to buy out its most valuable asset, it has emerged.

Perth school's veg patch find is no mere trifle

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 07:22:00 +0100

A foray into the vegetable patch turned into a truffle shuffle for pupils at Moncreiffe Primary School, Perth, when they uncovered an expensive delicacy.

Tay FM presenter Karen Ballingall thrown from horse

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 11:52:00 +0100

Police have warned drivers of the dangers of passing horses after a radio presenter was left injured when an off-road bike drove towards her at speed.

Nick Cave's six strings that drew the attention of a Dundee rocker

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 07:20:00 +0100

An unknown Dundee musician is set to take on the might of one of the world's biggest rock legends over a newly-released song which, he says, bears an uncanny resemblance to a track he wrote more than five years ago.

Make no mistake, it's in the mix

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:23:00 +0100

Glasgow electronic pop band Errors have come up with a novel way of keeping their songs sounding fresh — they get other bands to remix them!

Dundee set for super-fast fibre broadband upgrade

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:01:00 +0100

Parts of Menzieshill, Ninewells and Lochee will be the first in Dundee to be upgraded in BT's £2.5 billion plans for super-fast broadband.

Fiddlers' Bid to conquer Scotland

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:07:00 +0100

Shetland heroes Fiddlers' Bid have travelled the world as arguably Scotland's finest exponents of blisteringly-fast traditional music.

Sketchbook of cartoons at auction

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:31:00 +0100

A sketchbook containing drawings of legendary cartoon characters The Broons and Oor Wullie is expected to fetch £1000 when it goes under the hammer in Dundee next week.

Realtime creators delighted with Electric Top Hat move

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:19:00 +0100

A Dundee games company has plans for expansion after being joined by three former creators from Realtime Worlds, which collapsed recently with the loss of around 180 jobs.

Fife Art prize judging under way

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 17:08:00 +0100

Judging in this year's Fife Art competition is taking place at Kirkcaldy Museum and Art Gallery.

Peter Rabbit home Eastwood House up for sale at £1m

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:45:00 +0100

A Perthshire mansion which inspired Beatrix Potter's most famous literary creation Peter Rabbit has been put up for sale for £1 million.

Toto classic Wizard film on show at DCA

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 13:52:00 +0100

They're off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz! DCA is inviting everyone to come along to the centre on Saturday to see the 1939 big-screen classic which has been voted the city's favourite children's film.

Fiddlers on the hoof

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:53:00 +0100

Shetland heroes Fiddlers' Bid have travelled the world as arguably Scotland's finest exponents of blisteringly-fast traditional music.

Political point scoring not Nice — Howard Marks

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:14:00 +0100

Former drug dealer Howard Marks said he does not want to be "used for political point scoring" after the Labour group leader criticised the council for promoting his upcoming event in Dundee.

Radiation persists along Fife coast at Dalgety Bay

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 11:39:00 +0100

Dalgety Bay beach is repopulated with radioactive debris within months of waste being removed, it has been revealed.

Group formed to target equestrian crime

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:16:00 +0100

Horsewatch Scotland, a partnership between the police and the equestrian industry, has been formed to spearhead the battle against equestrian crime.

Call to walkers to be aware of deer stalking

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 12:43:00 +0100

Walkers have been warned to take care in the Perthshire hills as the red deer stalking season continues.

Rockin' a-Broons the Christmas tree

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 07:10:00 +0100

Scotland's first family, The Broons, will make their first assault on the charts this Christmas

Praise for Airlie Silver Surfers' telehealth role

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:53:00 +0100

A rural Angus group's role in developing telehealth provision has been praised at Holyrood.

Abertay video games in conference spotlight

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:53:00 +0100

Entries from Abertay Dundee University's world-renowned video game competition are to go under the spotlight at a conference on Europe's creative industries today.

Riverside nature park set to open next year

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:34:00 +0100

A delay-hit nature park in one of Dundee's most beautiful locations should finally open to the public early next year.

Ewan McGregor "excited" by £500,000 boost for Perth Theatre

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 07:50:00 +0100

Hollywood actor Ewan McGregor told The Courier of his delight after the heritage lottery fund revealed it is to award £500,000 to secure the future of Perth Theatre.

Refund woe for APB's buyers

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 06:15:00 +0100

Video game players hoping to receive a refund for a now defunct title developed in Dundee may have to rely on places of purchase giving them their money back.

Lexus CT 200h green but not the greenest

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 20:13:00 +0100

Lexus's new hybrid small family hatch will emit just 96g/km, making it road tax and congestion charge exempt.

The Miserable Rich at Duke's Corner

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 14:11:00 +0100

Brighton band The Miserable Rich try to do things differently — and it doesn't come much more different than an indie-rock band playing songs in the style of a chamber orchestra.

Review: Peugeot 5008

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 12:39:00 +0100

There comes a time in every man's life when he has to hand back the keys to his coupe or hot hatch and drive away in a lugubrious, unfashionable people carrier.

Cheers for Tears at Dundee Rep

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 11:15:00 +0100

There is going to be Blood, Sweat and Tears at Dundee Rep in a couple of weeks — not literally, however, unless rehearsals for the next production are proving troublesome.

Fashion industry's secret language given a dressing down

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 20:51:00 +0100

Those flummoxed by the clamour for 'shackets' and 'treggings' can breathe a sigh of relief at the release of a dictionary to help shoppers understand the latest clothing trends.

British Sea Power come to The Doghouse

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 20:03:00 +0100

One of the most enduring indie rock bands in the UK, British Sea Power, come to Dundee's Doghouse on September 28.

New book explores ghostly tales of Angus and Dundee

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 19:32:00 +0100

Ghostly goings-on in Angus and Dundee are the subject of a new book by Montrose writer Forbes Inglis.

Loopallu does it again

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 17:46:00 +0100

Picture the scene: it's Friday night at Loopallu and Paolo Nutini finishes off his excellent set with the words, "I'll see you in the pub." And he did!

King's Theatre restoration campaign gathers pace

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 15:33:00 +0100

In its heyday at the beginning of the 20th century the King's Theatre in Dundee played host to superstars such as Harry Lauder, music hall queen Marie Lloyd and Dundee-born entertainer Will Fyffe.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre welcomes special visitor

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 12:13:00 +0100

As it prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary, a special guest has paid a visit to Pitlochry Festival Theatre.

Help through hard times from wishes website

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:02:00 +0100

A Perthshire woman has set up a micro-giving website she says will grant the wishes of "the man on the street."

Contract deals offered on Peugeot iOn

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:44:15 +0100

The electric revolution is beginning. It's still in its infancy but, slowly yet surely, more and more models are beginning to trickle on to the market.

A taste of Burma brings Perthshire man close to Britain's Best

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 14:48:00 +0100

An Inchture man gave judges a taste of his cultural heritage on his way to near glory in a TV cook-off.

Leng Trust Prize goes to inspiring dance student

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:59:00 +0100

A partially-sighted dance student scooped an award for outstanding endeavour at Dundee College's prize-giving on Wednesday night.

Caterpillar is latest unusual find in Arbroath

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 15:31:00 +0100

Arbroath seems to have become something of a hotbed for unusual and spectacular insect life in recent weeks.

Loch Muick Open Water Swim cancelled by the cold

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:13:00 +0100

A long-distance swim organised by two Arbroath men this weekend has had to be cancelled due to plummeting water temperatures.

The Cundeez scheme their way to Christmas No.1

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:31:00 +0100

An unsigned Dundee band are dreaming of bagging the Christmas number one slot with the help of a few household names and the power of the internet.

Horn frog gives Deep Sea World a new mouth to feed

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 06:12:00 +0100

A South American frog whose mouth makes up half its total size has gone on display at North Queensferry's Deep Sea World.

Mindless vandals turn Broughty beach into 'worst in the UK'

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 15:34:00 +0100

A Beachwatch clean-up at Broughty Ferry over the weekend left the organiser in despair at what he feared would be "by far the worst result in the UK."

Perthshire's waterways under scrutiny from SEPA

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:06:00 +0100

The rivers and burns around Perthshire will be in the spotlight over the next few weeks as environmental experts carry out extensive inspections.

DJ Progressive Thrust lines up a world record

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 09:55:00 +0100

A Dundee music producer is hoping to smash his way into the record books by completing the longest non-stop DJ set in history.

Guide launched to cover 'necessary' use of animal snares

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 07:40:00 +0100

The introduction of a guide to the use of snares will provide a "professional approach" to the controversial practice, environment minister Roseanna Cunningham has insisted.

New engine option for Audi R8 Spyder

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 06:07:00 +0100

Audi's stunning R8 Spyder convertible, hitherto only available with a 5.0 litre V10 engine, is now available with the smaller — but still very, very powerful — 4.2 litre V8 engine familiar from the hard-top R8 and RS4.

Talented guitarist doing what comes naturally

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:53:00 +0100

Saturday's lunchtime concert performance in St Paul's Cathedral, Dundee, by guitarist Ben Kearsley wasn't flash and it wasn't demonstrative.

Review: BMW 5 Series

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:26:00 +0100

What have BMW been putting in their engineers' tea? Each new generation of car seems to stretch the company's technical lead over their rivals even further.

Exhibition: Jonathan Mitchell at Bank Street Gallery, Kirriemuir

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:51:00 +0100

Jonathan Mitchell always had an idea that he would become an artist. One of his earliest memories is completing his first landscape painting as a very young child, under the watchful eye of his father at their home in Dundee's Perth Road.

Ray Mears shuns life with the in crowd

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:31:00 +0100

Survival expert Ray Mears has travelled to the four corners of the globe in his quest for knowledge — but could he cope out in the famously unforgiving Highlands? Ahead of a talk he will be giving in Perth, Kirsten Johnson learns what inspired the intrepid adventurer and picks up some top tips on how to make the most of Scotland's dramatic scenery.

Sea eagles return to Vane Farm nature reserve

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:58:00 +0100

A pair of Scottish bird lovers' "pin-ups" have returned to Vane Farm at Loch Leven after an absence of several months.

Industrial waste on Broughty beach a 'nightmare'

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:39:00 +0100

Industrial debris dumped by fly-tippers made Broughty Ferry beach the "dirtiest in Scotland," the organiser of a weekend clean-up has said.

Montrose Basin sees first of winter's geese

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 07:42:00 +0100

The first pink-footed geese of an expected 50,000 set to descend on the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Montrose Basin wildlife reserve have arrived, marking the start of the wintering season for Scotland's wildlife.

Glenbervie trainee baker on the rise

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 11:19:00 +0100

A Mearns baker has was won the industry's equivalent of the Oscars.

Realtime Worlds' demise confirmed by APB shutdown

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 11:57:00 +0100

The collapse of Dundee games firm Realtime Worlds becomes final this weekend when the plug is pulled on its flagship game APB.

Ben Lawers eco-system under the microscope

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:09:00 +0100

The impact of climate change on a fragile Perthshire eco-system has been examined by dozens of site managers and nature conservationists from across Europe.

Ford confirms price of new C-Max models

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 06:08:00 +0100

Ford's new C-Max will cost from £16,745 when it goes on sale next month.

Fringe favourite Danny Bhoy on UK tour

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:15:00 +0100

Danny Bhoy is one of those famous/not famous people. Well enough known for a four-week run in the Fringe's largest venue, the 1000-seat McEwan Hall, he's also able to sit in a coffee shop five minutes from his Edinburgh flat without being noticed.

Loopallu to wrap up the festival season

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:21:00 +0100

It's that time again. The end of the summer festivals means Loopallu — that great little party in the north.

Review: Citroen DS3

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 18:31:00 +0100

This, ladies and gentlemen, is the DS3, the best Citroen I've driven in a long, long time, possibly ever.

NEoN wants to see character ahead of Dundee festival

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:18:00 +0100

The North East of North (NEoN) international digital arts festival returns to Dundee in November and organisers have launched a design competition the month before the event.

Just a Simple week at work for Ged Grimes

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:43:00 +0100

Last week was just another week in the life of Dundee's Ged Grimes, former bass player with Danny Wilson, and more recently Deacon Blue and Jim Kerr's Lostboy. Or so he thought...

Damage blamed for closure of Drumbarnie Links access

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 17:13:00 +0100

Anti-social behaviour has forced Fife Council to stop vehicles accessing a popular beauty spot via a long-established right of way.

Fife veterans help launch Dougie's War novel

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 09:39:00 +0100

Two Fife veterans have helped launch a graphic novel that highlights the ticking time-bomb of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Dunfermline launch for The Skids' new DVD

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 07:05:00 +0100

The Skids are to continue a successful year by launching a DVD in the fitting setting of Carnegie Hall in Dunfermline next month.

Perth artist Lucy Campbell returns for exhibition

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 19:01:00 +0100

Artist Lucy Campbell returns to Perth for her latest exhibition, which is filled with a new selection of her fantastical creations.

Fife artist Allan Beveridge showcased at university gardens

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:42:00 +0100

Tentsmuir forest is the theme for the latest exhibition by Fife artist Allan Beveridge on show this month at the Dundee University Botanic Gardens visitor centre.

Roald Dahl Day event in Glenrothes is a peach

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 16:12:00 +0100

Fife's children's book festival continued with a series of activities, including a book and film event to mark Roald Dahl Day.

Games industry faces wait for Westminster committee's conclusions

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 14:26:00 +0100

Dundee's vital computer games industry might have to wait until the New Year before learning what boost — if any — it will receive from the coalition government.

On Fire With Fergie author Stuart Donald goes back to his Perth roots

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 20:29:00 +0100

A Perth-born author has returned to his hometown in order to sign copies of his new book.

Caird Hall audience witnesses 'people's prom'

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:44:00 +0100

The words of Lesley Garrett's fabulous Caird Hall performance on Saturday night of the Rogers and Hammerstein evergreen, Some Enchanted Evening, did not quite do the event justice.

International art on show in Arbroath

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:04:00 +0100

Over the coming two months four artists from the far corners of the world are seeking inspiration at Hospitalfield House in Arbroath as part of Royal Overseas League sponsored residencies.

Dundee music fans say no to racism

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:58:00 +0100

People from all over Tayside said no to racism during an all-day live music festival in Dundee.

Donald Urquhart exhibit opens at Meffan Museum

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 12:39:00 +0100

The latest exhibition at The Meffan is by Edinburgh artist Donald Urquhart, considered one of the most significant artists working in Scotland today.

Dundee scientist creates 3D image of Shakespeare

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:30:00 +0100

The true face of the world's greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, has been thanks in part to the detective work of a Dundee scientist.

Dundee connection brings St Leonards to Fat Sam's

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 18:37:00 +0100

Supporting Tommy Reilly at Fat Sam's on Wednesday are Australian band St Leonards, who come to Dundee courtesy of their Dundee-born manager, John Wooler.

Webster Theatre looks for youngsters to fill diminutive roles

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:10:00 +0100

The producers of this year's panto at the Webster Memorial Theatre are looking for talented youngsters to play Snow White's seven dwarfs.

David Johnston celebrates Mearns landscapes in exhibition

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 11:34:00 +0100

Landscape artist David Johnston celebrates the countryside around him in his latest exhibition.

Mickey Dale ready to Talk To Angels at Dexter's

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 21:31:00 +0100

With Embrace he's played in some of the biggest arenas in the UK and Europe. But ahead of a gig at Dexters in Dundee, keyboard player Mickey Dale explains why he's happy to get down and dirty with the rest of his new bandmates in Talk To Angels.

Review: Ship Simulator Extremes (PC)

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 20:50:00 +0100

A past fan of flight simulators games, Grant Reid was "hand-picked" to test this boat sim. Unfortunately, it was more 'all abhorred' than 'all aboard'.

Checking on developments at Murton nature reserve

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 20:03:00 +0100

Experts in rural development have been given a first-hand insight into the latest developments at an award-winning Angus nature reserve.

Tommy Reilly excited for Fat Sam's return

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 19:11:00 +0100

Tommy Reilly returns to Fat Sam's next Wednesday for the first time since his appearance at the Haiti charity gig back in February.

Festival to showcase Perthshire's Wild Connections

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 17:10:00 +0100

A festival will show Highland Perthshire's potential for wildlife tourism next month, offering over 30 events.

Fife centre's appeal to look out for sick hedgehogs

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 16:47:00 +0100

A plea has been issued to look out for sick and underweight hedgehogs who have suffered due to the summer's mixed weather.

Mexico make long-awaited return at The Doghouse

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 15:43:00 +0100

Anybody remember alt-rock duo Mexico, one of Rocktalk's favourite bands of the early part of the decade?

Computer games industry loses 18% of jobs

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 15:12:00 +0100

The trade association representing the UK games industry, TIGA, revealed employment in the development sector fell by 18% in 2010.

Scottish motor trade cools its wheels in August

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 13:52:00 +0100

August was not a great month for new car sales in Scotland. Sales were down almost 20% over the same month last year, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Super-fast internet for Dunfermline

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 13:11:00 +0100

People living in Dunfermline are among the first in the UK to benefit from new technology to improve broadband services.

Performance poets to battle Australians online

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 18:05:00 +0100

On Saturday, some of Scotland's top performance poets will go head-to-head against rivals from Australia. The online 'cyber slam' will be played out in front of an audience in the Byre Theatre, St Andrews, and simultaneously at the Overload poetry festival in Melbourne. Jack McKeown talked to some of those taking part.

Doors open at Kingsway dance theatre The Space

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:02:00 +0100

People will have an access-all-areas pass to The Space at Dundee College's Kingsway campus tomorrow.

Commons committee to examine role of games industry

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:23:00 +0100

The economic contribution made by the Scottish video games industry will come under the spotlight in Dundee on Monday when the House of Commons Scottish affairs committee visits Abertay University.

Broughty Ferry beach tests have SEPA baffled

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 12:51:00 +0100

Researchers at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have been left scratching their heads after the latest water quality test at Broughty Ferry beach produced the worst result for some years.

Fife farm welcomes sea eagle's departure

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 07:22:00 +0100

A white-tailed sea eagle that terrorised hundreds of chickens at a north-east Fife farm last month has left the area.

Review: Sunshine on Leith, at Dundee Rep

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 19:10:00 +0100

Pipes, Pippin and the Proclaimers drew a bedraggled crowd to Dundee Rep, desperate for a ray of Sunshine on Leith.

Heartwood project staging outdoor art exhibition

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:13:00 +0100

An exhibition featuring artwork in a woodland setting is being staged in Perthshire.

Buzzcocks and The Trade at Fat Sam's

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:34:00 +0100

Icons? Probably. Legends? Definitely. Superstars? Definitely not. That's just not punk, is it?

Red Arrow Kirsty Moore blazing a trail to Leuchars Airshow

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:51:00 +0100

Most people will have watched the Red Arrows and marvelled at their death-defying stunts — but something has changed. Last September, for the first time, a female joined what is arguably the most skilled team of pilots in the world. Susan Anderson talks to Flight Lieutenant Kirsty Moore ahead of her performance at the RAF Leuchars Airshow.

Olympics inspired Carnoustie woman to overcome illnesses

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:27:00 +0100

A young woman who overcame the challenges of being born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus to win a place in the Tayside Special Olympics team will launch her autobiography at Carnoustie Library on Thursday.

Dundee musical group ready to make their move

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:23:00 +0100

Dundee Operatic Society has begun rehearsals for its latest production, Chess the Musical.

Aviation book raises £8000 for RAF fund

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:50:00 +0100

The small Arbroath company Squadron Prints Ltd is well known for its aviation art around the world but more recently its efforts have been the production, marketing and sale of a stunning 160-page book called Northern Exposure — The RAF at work in Scotland.

Countryman: for those who like their Mini a little bit bigger

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:15:00 +0100

A glance out of the window today reveals just why four-wheel drives are so popular in Scotland. It's like Mordor out there. Fitting, then, that one of the more unusual all-wheelers to be released in a while goes on sale next Saturday.

Roger Rabbit animator leads digital artists at Abertay event

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:52:00 +0100

An internationally acclaimed animator joined expert mentors at an intensive one-week creative team event which has begun at Abertay University.

Sir Chris Bonington to give talk at Alhambra Theatre

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 07:33:00 +0100

One of the UK's most famous mountaineers, Sir Chris Bonington, is to visit the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline, where he will give a talk on his career.

Former Realtime boss Ian Hetherington linked to mystery US firm

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 06:47:00 +0100

Realtime Worlds' former chairman is involved with the mystery American company that bought part of the Dundee game firm, an investigation by The Courier can reveal.

Pitlochry date for cellist Julian Lloyd Webber

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:54:00 +0100

World renowned cellist Julian Lloyd Webber is coming to Pitlochry Festival Theatre in November.

Tim Turnbull headline reader at Montrose show

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:49:00 +0100

The organisers behind a Montrose poetry and music event are hoping for a repeat showing when their latest night of "fantastic and varied entertainment" is held early next month.

Professor Green to play Dundee venue

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 19:12:00 +0100

Stephen Paul Manderson, better known by his stage name Professor Green, has just been announced to appear at Fat Sam's in Dundee.

Whitehall Theatre's Gershwin show oozes flair

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 17:45:00 +0100

Just when the marvellous songs of George and Ira Gershwin threatened to drift into obscurity, along came Ken Ludwig and they gained a new lease of life.

Grab a seat early for Dundee guitar festival

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:14:00 +0100

The world's premier mobile guitar festival, The International Guitar Night, comes to the Marryat Hall this month.

St Andrews readies to proclaim Independents Day

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 18:21:00 +0100

America may have Independence Day — but St Andrews is looking forward to Independents Day.

New Suzuki Swift on sale now

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:01:00 +0100

The new Suzuki Swift went on sale this week, with a starting price of just under £10,000.

RX-8 chance won't come round again

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 21:37:00 +0100

If you want a Mazda RX-8, act fast — production of the rotary-engined four-door coupe has come to an end and less than 100 examples remain in the UK.

Fun Lovin' Criminals promise to put on classic party

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 19:11:00 +0100

When Fun Lovin' Criminals' Huey Morgan talks, you listen — even when he's excusing himself and putting the interview on hold to talk to his dog.

Ford Mondeo updated, inside and out

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 11:18:00 +0100

Ford has updated its fine Mondeo, making it smarter-looking inside and out, bringing in new technology and introducing two new engines.

Brechin's Crashdown ready to storm Surface Unsigned

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:44:00 +0100

It's been a busy few months for young Brechin-based ska punks Crashdown, writing new material, some great gigs, a trip to Austria to support Texas In July and the culmination being the chance to perform at the Indigo O2 arena in London at the end of the month.

Jewellery 'designers' try technology at Duncan of Jordanstone

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:11:00 +0100

Customers of Dundee's award-winning jewellery designer Lorraine Law have gone to the workshop to try their hand at cutting-edge computer-aided design.

Police find refusal to wear seatbelts 'almost unbelievable'

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:17:00 +0100

A Tayside traffic policeman fears safety messages are not getting through after a day of police action found drivers in Tayside and Fife still not wearing seatbelts.

Alan Gouk exhibit opens in Stonehaven

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:42:00 +0100

An exhibition which opens in the Mearns tonight will offer a rare public viewing of the work of one of the most respected painters in the country who has set up a studio in Montrose.

Singer-songwriter Claire Hamill at Drouthy Neebors

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:13:00 +0100

There's a very special, not-to-be-missed gig at Drouthy Neebors on Saturday night when singer-songwriter Claire Hamill comes to town.

Cupar Blues and Beyond Club tunes up for autumn

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:21:00 +0100

Cupar Blues and Beyond Club has announced its autumn programme, which begins on Friday night at Watts in the town with a session from established club favourites Alan Jones and Ritchie O'Donnell of Mud in Your Ear.

VIDEO: round Knockhill with British Touring Car driver Gordon Shedden

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:20:00 +0100

The eighth round of the British Touring Car Championships takes place at Knockhill this weekend. Ahead of the action, local BTCC star Gordon Shedden took Jack McKeown for a flying lap around the Fife racetrack.

Review: Jaguar XJ

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 18:46:00 +0100

Jaguar brought its latest big cat up to Scotland last week. The new XJ has been causing shockwaves in the luxury car market, not least for its radical departure from the tried and tested lines of yesteryear's flagship Jaguar saloon.

August weather brighter and drier than average

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:53:00 +0100

August was a brighter and drier month than usual in Dundee, experts at the Scottish Crop Research Institute in Invergowrie say.

Tyre pressure survey shames Dundee drivers

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:46:00 +0100

Dundee motorists have been named and shamed for neglecting their tyre pressures, following a study of more than 4500 vehicles around the UK.

Minister insists games industry still has bright future

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:14:00 +0100

Culture secretary Fiona Hyslop said Dundee's computer games industry is still in a healthy state, despite the collapse of Realtime Worlds.

Landowners urged to protect mussels' habitat

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:27:00 +0100

Landowners have been urged to take care when working in or around the River Tay or risk damaging the fragile habitat of the rare freshwater pearl mussel.

Superfast broadband firm now accepting connection requests

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:46:00 +0100

The company behind the project to bring superfast broadband to Dundee has urged residents and small businesses to sign up for a free connection.

Billy Boyd: From Lord of the Rings to Dundee Rep

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:34:00 +0100

Scots actor Billy Boyd was thrust into the Hollywood limelight with his role in movie phenomenon Lord of the Rings. Now he's returned to his stage roots for musical Sunshine On Leith, which opens at Dundee Rep on Tuesday.

Online payslips pilot scheme raises concerns

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:49:00 +0100

A teachers' union has expressed concerns about the possibility of Fife Council issuing online payslips for its 20,000-plus workforce.

Disturbing findings in car maintenance investigation

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:42:00 +0100

Almost 90% of garages miss at least one fault, a disturbing undercover study by Which? has found.

Edinburgh Fringe: Jason Byrne

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:21:34 +0100

Well, that's it almost over for another year. Tonight sees the final performances of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2010, and what more fitting way to end The Courier's coverage than with a review of the best-selling comedian in the Fringe's history?

Review: Chevrolet Spark

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:26:00 +0100

When I drove it for a day back in the spring, Chevrolet's Spark impressed me with its value and styling, but I couldn't get enthusiastic about the driving experience.

Byre Theatre chief confident 'strong appeal' will secure funding

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:51:00 +0100

The chief executive of St Andrews' Byre Theatre is optimistic that crucial funding will soon be reinstated, lifting worries for the venue's future.

Longforgan man finds 'heart of America' in Dundee, North Dakota

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:48:00 +0100

A Longforgan man has for the second year in a row travelled thousands of miles west to find himself in a very different Dundee to the one he's used to.

Gamekeeper claims poisoned red kite was "planted"

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:03:00 +0100

A gamekeeper on a Highland Perthshire estate at the centre of poisoning allegations has condemned those who use illegal pest control methods.

Review: Nana, at Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:24:00 +0100

Mon dieu! Qu'est-ce que c'est que ca? Olwen Wymark's adapation of Emile Zola's novel Nana hits the stage of Pitlochry with a dull thud.

Edinburgh Fringe: Five Guys Named Moe

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:13:00 +0100

I'll be honest, writes William Lockwood. The main reason I went to see Five Guys Named Moe at the McEwan Hall was because it stars Clarke Peters, AKA Lester Freamon from The Wire. I didn't know much about it, except that it featured the vocal talents of the sharpest detective on The Greatest TV Show Ever.

Tree planted to mark £7000 Woodland Trust windfall

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:29:00 +0100

Efforts to develop Moncreiffe Hill Wood as an outdoor classroom have been given a major cash boost.

Realtime Worlds' APB was earning $3m a month

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:26:00 +0100

Dundee video games firm Realtime Worlds was earning $3 million a month from subscribers to its game APB.

Fishing tackle injuries to animals dismays Dunfermline vet

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:06:00 +0100

A Fife vet has expressed his dismay at the injuries being inflicted on wildlife by carelessly discarded fishing tackle.

Blog launched to help solve seal deaths mystery

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 07:07:00 +0100

Veterinary pathologists investigating the deaths of seals found washed up on the east coast of Scotland have launched a blog in an attempt to unravel the mystery.

Business advice workshop for video game developers

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:41:00 +0100

Scottish Enterprise is to stage a special workshop in Dundee next week to teach the next generation of video game developers how to set up their own studios.

Locarno club night starts at Reading Rooms

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:04:00 +0100

A new club night takes root tonight at the Reading Rooms — a real rock 'n' roll experience called Locarno.

New head gardener has ambitious plans for Scone Palace

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:59:00 +0100

The grounds of Scone Palace can look forward to a new lease of life following the appointment of a new head gardener.

David Bellamy hopes gadget could tumble the dryer

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 09:41:00 +0100

One of television's best-known environmentalists was in Kinross-shire this week to launch an innovative all-weather drying rack.

Edinburgh Fringe: Bell Shakespeare — Just Macbeth!

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:11:00 +0100

Making toilet humour sit comfortably alongside some of Shakespeare's darkest work is quite a skill, writes William Lockwood. Macbeth's themes of murder, ambition, fate and manipulation do not seem best suited to running jokes about flatulence. Until, that is, the Australian Bell Shakespeare troupe come along.

Games firm Eutechnyx confirms Dundee interest

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:53:00 +0100

A major English games development company is considering setting up in Dundee in the wake of Realtime Worlds' slide into administration.

Release of Loch Tay osprey is a first for SSPCA

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:28:00 +0100

For the first time, the Scottish SPCA has released an osprey back into the wild after nursing the injured bird back to full strength.

Fringe gig showcases nurse's passion for performing

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:51:00 +0100

A Perthshire nurse has swapped bandages for the bright lights of the capital to take part in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Channel 4's £1 million an investment in city's digital talent

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:37:00 +0100

The talent available in Dundee's digital media cluster persuaded Channel 4 to invest £1 million in it, the broadcaster's chief executive says.

Edinburgh International Festival: a fitting Mozart tribute to late conductor

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:37:00 +0100

As tributes go, there could not be anything more fitting than the Edinburgh Festival concert production of Mozart's Idomeneo at Usher Hall.

Sonar Zone riding the wave of social media

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:21:00 +0100

Almost 16 years ago, Dunfermline's Tim Thomson released his first track under the name of Sonar Zone — a high-energy, old-school techno fixture.

WWF villain Ted DiBiase on wrestling life's demons

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:51:00 +0100

To legions of wrestling fans around the world he is the Million Dollar Man — an arrogant villain remembered for his feuds with the likes of Hulk Hogan in the 80s heyday of the World Wrestling Federation. Nowadays, however, Ted DiBiase has swapped pile-drivers for prayer meetings. Ahead of appearances in Dundee and Blairgowrie this weekend, he tells David Clegg about the conflicts between being a wrestling bad guy and a devout Christian.

Review: Kane and Lynch 2: Dog Days (Xbox 360)

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:26:00 +0100

Danish developer IO Interactive delivers console gamers the second instalment of a gritty, cinematic series. Despite a mixed reception to the first title, could its improvements have resulted in a Spiderman 2?

Review: Honda CR-V EX

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:07:00 +0100

Honda's 'soft roader' the CR-V was facelifted for 2010. Already quite a handsome vehicle, Honda have used a light touch, making just a few aesthetic modifications.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Late Late Show with Paul Zenon and Mikelangelo

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:35:00 +0100

The Late Late Show with Paul Zenon and Mikelangelo is chaotic, slightly amateurish at points, but perfect if you're just arriving for a stay in Edinburgh and have no idea what to see.

Perth viewers demand the full picture from digital switchover

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:09:00 +0100

TV viewers in Perth could be missing out on a whole host of channels, despite the switch to digital services.

£1m Channel 4 deal for Tag Games and Dynamo Games

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 06:11:00 +0100

Dundee's under-pressure computer games industry has received a timely boost after Channel 4 revealed it was ploughing £1 million into the sector.

Our Future Glory cleared for take-off after Airplay win

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 21:46:00 +0100

Dundee band Our Future Glory are reaching for the skies after emerging victorious from Scotland's most unusual music festival.

Edinburgh International Festival: Pavel Haas quartet

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 19:01:00 +0100

The banner outside Edinburgh's Queens Hall during this year's festival proudly proclaims "three exhilarating weeks of morning music", writes Garry Fraser. Add "memorable" and you have a fitting description of the programme scheduled for this venue.

Edinburgh Fringe: Richard Bacon brings radio show north

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 16:12:00 +0100

Edinburgh in August is where and when the London media pause from their hyperactive navel gazing, look around them, and realise there's a lot of England to the north of them and a whole other country above that. One that's holding the world's biggest arts festival. And so they rush up here, camera crews and pretty assistants in tow, and set up shop for a month.

Scrappage scheme effect shown in July car sales figures

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 13:32:00 +0100

July's new car sales in Scotland were down nearly 10% on the same month last year.

Edinburgh International Festival: Cleveland Orchestra

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 22:06:00 +0100

Of all the concerts at this year's Edinburgh International Festival, one really intrigued me — Tuesday night's Usher Hall concert top-billed by the Cleveland Orchestra, writes Garry Fraser.

'Community' at heart of Tayside Police's new website plans

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 19:09:00 +0100

The Tayside Police website will be upgraded later this year, with the aim of fostering better links with the community.

Review: Dougie MacLean at Bruce Festival

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:09:00 +0100

Perthshire singer-songwriter Dougie MacLean opened this year's Bruce Festival, playing a solo acoustic set to a sell-out audience in the atmospheric surroundings of Dunfermline Abbey's nave.

New book charts rise of Rep Theatre

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:21:00 +0100

The first comprehensive history of the Dundee Repertory Theatre has gone on sale.

East coast sea eagles spread their wings

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 06:43:00 +0100

A total of 19 white-tailed sea eagles have been released into the wild from a secret location in Fife.

Another games industry jobs blow with Cohort Studios

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 06:00:00 +0100

The Dundee games industry has suffered another blow as it emerged that a second company has been forced to make redundancies.

Perth Youth Theatre set to welcome new season recruits

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:39:00 +0100

Young people in Perth and Kinross with an interest in theatre, of all levels of experience, are being invited to apply for the 2010 to 2011 season at Perth Youth Theatre.

Recycling centres feel effect of digital TV revolution

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:33:00 +0100

The switch to digital has sent the reception of old TV sets at Angus recycling centres rocketing.

Realtime Worlds: profile of boss Dave Jones

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:53:00 +0100

He may be a legendary figure in computer gaming, but Realtime Worlds boss Dave Jones has traditionally shunned the limelight.

Unlocking the secrets of JMW Turner 'portrait'

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:31:00 +0100

A former Dundee University student thinks she might be on the verge of unlocking the secret of one of the most controversial paintings of the last 200 years.

All change as Dundee tunes in to digital TV

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 06:38:00 +0100

Dundee is the first city on Scotland to lose its analogue television signal and go all digital.

Video: we meet Twifficiency creator James Cunningham

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:14:39 +0100

A Monifieth teenager has become an instant online star after creating a programme that took Twitter by storm.

Work by Alberto Morrocco goes under the hammer for £85,000

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:09:00 +0100

Paintings by the late Dundee artist Alberto Morrocco have raised more than £85,000 at an auction in Edinburgh.

Realtime Worlds: TIGA says coalition 'asleep at the wheel'

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:21:00 +0100

The coalition government has been accused of being "asleep at the wheel" by failing to take steps to protect the games industry in Scotland.

Fife sea eagles to be released into the wild

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 23:51:50 +0100

Scotland's east coast population of sea eagles is swelling this week as fledglings are released from a secret location in Fife.

Bruce Festival ready to bring history to life in Dunfermline

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:22:00 +0100

To celebrate the life of Robert the Bruce, Dunfermline is hosting The Bruce Festival from Thursday to Saturday this week, followed by
Robert The Bruce — Live! One of the main attractions will be costumed characters and medieval battles laid on by the Clanranald Trust. Chief executive Charlie Allan told Ursula Pool about some of the activities on offer.

Arbroath marine conquers Afghanistan's Noshaq mountain

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:23:00 +0100

An Arbroath-based Royal Marine who returned to Afghanistan as a civilian has conquered one of the area's highest peaks just months after fighting the Taliban there.

Digital switchover reaches final stage

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:56:00 +0100

The final stage of the switchover to digital broadcasts from the Angus television transmitter will begin early on Wednesday.

Edinburgh Fringe: Camille O'Sullivan: Chameleon

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:06:00 +0100

Twenty-five minutes before Camille O'Sullivan was due to come on stage, the queue for her show stretched to the end of George Street and round on to Hanover Street.

Edinburgh Fringe: The One to One Show with Gyles Brandreth

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:43:00 +0100

A straw poll of my friends revealed they all knew the name Gyles Brandreth, but few could tell me exactly who he is or what he's done. Some recalled him from his lurid jumper days on TV-am, others from Countdown, or from his more recent work on The One Show.

Edinburgh International Festival: Jonathan Biss

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:07:00 +0100

If you want your opening concert in the Edinburgh Festival to be world class, it is not a matter of chance, thanks to the assembly of the world's best musicians.

Edinburgh International Festival: Porgy and Bess

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:23:00 +0100

Opera? Musical? Folk story? George Gershwin called Porgy and Bess "an American folk opera" and this is the perfect description of his collaboration with Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward.

Inaugural Auchmithie Arts Festival a great success

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:41:43 +0100

Art lovers from all over Angus and further afield have converged on the clifftop village of Auchmithie to enjoy the community's first dedicated arts festival.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Sunday Defensive

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:49:00 +0100

The Sunday Defensive are Phil Gilbert and Jacob Edwards — two bespectacled young Englishmen presenting their off-the-wall sketch show. They play a pair of geeky, oddball friends who decide to marry one another for financial gain.

Phibbies complete greatest challenge yet

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:43:00 +0100

Members of Broughty institution Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association completed the "greatest" challenge they have ever taken on as they beat the tide to swim from Arbroath to their home pier in Broughty Ferry.

Boatel your friends — hearty good fun aboard the Four Sisters

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 15:39:00 +0100

Ahoy, me hearties! Mike Donachie and family enjoyed a short break with a difference aboard Edinburgh's Four Sisters Boatel, which is billed as Scotland's only "floating hotel." Dragging along his wife and two young children, he filled the car with babycare junk and was already misusing nautical terms before they hit the motorway.

Review: The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 14:05:00 +0100

The Swan Thieves is Elizabeth Kostova's second novel, following on from her highly successful bestseller, The Historian.

Duncan Leith's Kittenweem adventure

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 11:03:00 +0100

It's a dog eat dog world out there but Dundee-born author Duncan Leith has come up with a charming story as the Crew Cats of Kittenweem follow the lure of high adventure, in the teeth of opposition from their traditional canine foes.

Edinburgh Fringe: Wonderland

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:20:00 +0100

Charles Dodgson, known to the world as Lewis Carroll, the creator of Alice In Wonderland, was 55 years old when he struck up a friendship with Isa Bowman, the child actress who played Alice in the stage version of the book that made its author famous and wealthy.

Dare ProtoPlay gives glimpse of the future

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 07:10:00 +0100

Abertay University has unveiled 15 new video games at an Edinburgh Festival event.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Wau Wau Sisters

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:17:00 +0100

So, it's a Sunday night. I'm a little tired after a busy weekend but I drag myself along to see a show I know very little about, called The Wau Wau Sisters.

Jillian McInnes has passion for pastry

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 11:01:00 +0100

Perth-born Jillian McInnes reveals how she decided that the sweet life was for her — and how she reinvented the Jaffa Cake.

St Andrews University team asked to probe mystery of seal deaths

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 10:08:00 +0100

An investigation has been launched into the mysterious deaths of 33 seals washed up along the east coast of Scotland and England.

Tayside wildlife crime crackdown

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 21:37:00 +0100

An initiative has been launched to combat wildlife crime in Tayside.

Edinburgh Fringe: Beautiful Burnout

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 19:27:00 +0100

Every year there is a standout drama at the Fringe that everyone rushes to see — Black Watch, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, 12 Angry Men and The Odd Couple are among those to have ruled the roost over the last decade.

Professor hunts for stories behind Titian

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 06:48:00 +0100

The £50 million Titian on loan to Dundee has been brought to life at a lecture in the city by a world expert on the Italian painter.

Ford Transit celebrating 45 years — and still going strong

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 20:47:00 +0100

Congratulations to the Ford Transit, which is 45 years old this month.

Edinburgh Fringe: Jimeoin

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:38:00 +0100

Those "Oh, yeah — I do that!" moments are the reason you go to see Jimeoin.

Nissan's new-style X-Trail looking promising

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:18:00 +0100

Nissan's popular and capable X-Trail has been overhauled. Going on sale in October, the updated car gets fresh styling, better interior comfort and quality and improvements to its diesel engine.

Edinburgh Fringe: Storm Large

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:58:00 +0100

Storm Large — yes, that is her real name — provides a searingly honest account of her underage sex, drug addiction and loneliness, in between raucous rock songs, where the six-foot blonde shakes her quite remarkable body all over the stage and tender but lyrically tough love songs that give a glimpse of the innocence beneath the wild child exterior.

Belladrum Tartan Heart's in the right place

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:45:00 +0100

The beauty of festivals is that aside from all the expected delights on the bigger stages, they always throw up some brilliant surprises and unexpected twists.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre optimistic despite cuts

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:22:00 +0100

The loss of around £300,000 in government funding will have no impact on the range and quality of shows staged at one of Scotland's most popular theatres, it has been claimed.

Glorious Twelfth under threat

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 09:01:42 +0100

Scotland's grouse moors are worth millions to the nation's economy, a study launched in Perthshire revealed as the grouse shooting season gets under way on August 12 — the Glorious Twelfth.

Array of talent to join Dougie MacLean's Perthshire Amber festival

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 07:01:00 +0100

An impressive array of internationally acclaimed acts will descend on Scotland this autumn for Dougie MacLean’s Perthshire Amber festival.

Hyundai take a step forward with ix35

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:07:00 +0100

Hyundai and Kia, South Korea's two major car makers, are on something of a roll at the moment.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Unfamous Doc Brown

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:38:00 +0100

Doc Brown is the stage name of Ben Smith, retired rapper and brother to best-selling novelist Zadie Smith.

Scots model Emma Mactaggart has the look

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 10:39:00 +0100

A young Scot has won a top modelling competition.

AppCon world first for Dundee

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:20:00 +0100

Dundee will host the world's first conference on the development of mobile phone apps this year.

Edinburgh Fringe: The Ginge, the Geordie and the Geek

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 21:46:00 +0100

There are a lot of standup comedians at the Fringe. An overwhelming amount, it sometimes seems.

Edinburgh Fringe: Piff the Magic Dragon

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:56:00 +0100

Piff the Magic Dragon is the star of this chaotic but fun magic show, starring a laconic Englishman dressed as a firebreathing beast of yore, and a Chihuahua from Dundee.

Music lover to hold Glamis Castle Proms at home

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 17:19:00 +0100

Music lovers across Angus — and Scotland — were left devastated earlier this year when it was announced the annual Glamis Castle Proms, which had been due to take place in the grounds of the castle this Saturday, had been cancelled.

Dundee City Council part of parliamentary computer game inquiry

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:55:00 +0100

Dundee City Council is to take part in a parliamentary inquiry into the computer games industry.

Diana and Actaeon drawing the crowds to Dundee's McManus

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:39:00 +0100

Titian's masterpiece Diana and Actaeon is proving popular with visitors to The McManus Galleries in Dundee.

Fifty-year River Tay swimming record remains unbroken

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:31:00 +0100

An "honorary Dundonian" Olympic swimmer has returned to the city to see his 50-year-old double Tay crossing record withstand a new challenge.

Footballer Kevin's goal is to write the score himself

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 11:07:00 +0100

St Johnstone's Kevin Rutkiewicz is hoping his first album will hit the right note with music fans.

Camille O'Sullivan's perfect storm

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 17:55:00 +0100

A gifted architect who graduated with the best marks University College Dublin had seen in a decade, Camille O'Sullivan was nearly killed in a car crash in 1999. After a year of rehab, she took to the stage and has since become an award winning cabaret star.

Isles brought to life in Northlandings exhibition at Meffan Museum

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 15:29:00 +0100

The windsept isles of the Uists, Orkney, Shetland and Iceland come to life in a new exhibition in Forfar.

Electric bike is no sweat

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 13:45:00 +0100

Keen to cycle to work but don't want to get your business attire all sweaty? Or has old age, injury or disability left you unable to pedal hard? Then an electric bicycle could be the answer, writes Jack McKeown.

Thousands watch Lady's departure from Loch of the Lowes

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 12:20:00 +0100

More than 2000 wildlife enthusiasts from across the world watched online as Lady the osprey took to the skies for what is expected to be her last migratory flight.

SXC mountain bikers head for Kinnoull Hill

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:18:25 +0100

Perth will play host to some of the top names in British mountain biking this weekend.

Squeezing into a niche with the Audi A7 Sportback

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 06:25:00 +0100

Audi is hoping its plush A7 Sportback will take sales from Mercedes' CLS and BMW's more practical 5 Series GT.

Orchid images help Scone festival bloom

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 21:23:00 +0100

Orchids are very definitely shining stars in the plant world and Scone Palace is home to the collection of the Earl of Mansfield, the largest private collection of orchids in the UK, part of which forms the centrepiece for what is now a regular celebration of these gorgeous blooms. Helen Brown talked to palace administrator Elspeth Bruce and to artist Clare Robinson.

Rosie and Katy are jumping with joy

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:59:00 +0100

Two talented sisters from Blairgowrie have beaten fierce competition to make it to the Pony Club Championships at Draycott House in Derbyshire.

Cyber Slam a test for Aussie poets

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:24:00 +0100

A 'cyber slam' pitting poets from Scotland against their Antipodean counterparts, live and online, will take place at the Byre Theatre in St Andrews in September.

Gotta gettaway to FifeFest

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:26:00 +0100

The biggest-ever FifeFest gets under way with more than 30 bands in two venues over 11 gigs in Dunfermline during the three-week festival.

Fallout begins as Secret Bunker festival cancelled

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 09:29:00 +0100

Hundreds of revellers bound for an underground music festival in the East Neuk have been left disappointed after organisers were forced to pull the plug on the event just 48 hours beforehand.

Loch of the Lowes' emotional farewell to Lady the osprey

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:20:00 +0100

Emotions ran high for staff and visitors at the Loch of the Lowes as Lady the osprey made what could be her final migratory flight.

Get in line for the (almost) £30,000 Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:45:00 +0100

A £30,000 Fiat 500? Yes, you did read that correctly. The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari will cost £29,600 — a pretty big mark-up on a car that starts at under £9500.

Vauxhall offering more Astra for less cash

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:00:00 +0100

Vauxhall are knocking £500 off the start price of the new Astra Sports Tourer.

About a Badly Drawn Boy

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:38:00 +0100

Self-doubt, writer's block, creative desert, whatever you call the frustratingly barren period Damon Gough went through a year or so ago, it's ironic that one of the deepest thinkers in contemporary music was enticed back into writing songs by the lure of a comedy movie.

Northern Lights hope in Scotland amid solar storm

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:47:00 +0100

Solar storms led to the possibility of a rare sighting of the northern lights in Scotland.

Diana and Actaeon's McManus unveiling

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:17:00 +0100

A £50m work of art is set to be unveiled at the McManus in Dundee on Saturday as part of its tour of Scotland.

Inverkeithing film-maker's architecture documentary on BBC

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:48:00 +0100

A documentary by Inverkeithing film-maker Murray Grigor will be screened by the BBC at the weekend.

Book scandalising 18th century aristocrats for sale

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:20:00 +0100

Claims about the past of an aristocratic Angus family are made in a publication to go on sale at a Forfar antique book fair.

Digital revolution sees BBC2 transmission turned off

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 07:54:00 +0100

After years of publicity, Perth, Angus, Dundee and parts of Fife have finally joined the "digital revolution."

Workshop set to benefit young video game fans

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:39:00 +0100

Young video game fans will get the chance to take part in a special workshop revealing some of the tricks of the trade courtesy of Dare to be Digital, the international competition run by Abertay University.

Scottish youth orchestra thrives on complexity

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:31:00 +0100

When you have a group of musicians of the talent and calibre of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland at your disposal, there is no point in feeding them on snippets of classical pops — far better to give them a challenge that will test them.

Writer's work in the frame at Dundee Rep

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 08:13:00 +0100

A Blairgowrie writer has collaborated with the Scottish Dance Theatre to design a poster for the company’s show at this month’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

All-star line-up for Kirkcaldy Comedy Festival

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 07:53:00 +0100

It was all smiles in Kirkcaldy as the launch of the town’s annual comedy festival took place.

Largest region so far is switched on for TV revolution

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 07:11:00 +0100

More than 75,000 households in Tayside and Fife will wake up to a digital television revolution today.

Outdoors comes to St Andrews town

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 21:15:00 +0100

Fife's busy Outdoor Access Festival came to St Andrews with its first land yachting event at the West Sands.

Perth 800 celebrations will be rich and diverse

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 20:10:00 +0100

A diverse line-up of country and sports events is set to give the Perth 800 celebrations a more traditional feel during August.

New visitor centre opens at Glenshee

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 17:35:00 +0100

North Tayside MSP John Swinney has officially opened a new visitor centre in Glenshee.

Artist Dan Stephen hangs up his brushes

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 15:48:00 +0100

Perth artist Dan Stephen is finally hanging up his brushes at the age of 88.

Titian masterpiece Diana and Actaeon to dazzle at McManus Galleries

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 07:27:00 +0100

There was only one way in for the Old Master, and that was the Grand Entrance stairway.

Ross Knight prepares for the Proms

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:48:00 +0100

An Angus teenager is to perform at the BBC Proms this week.

Boats galore at the Anstruther Muster

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:40:00 +0100

The largest annual gathering of yachts on Scotland's east coast was to be found in the East Neuk of Fife as the Anstruther Muster brought a wealth of activity and spectacle to the harbour.

Treasure hunters flock to Perth Geocaching Mega Event

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:12:00 +0100

High-tech treasure hunters from all over the world descended on Perth at the weekend, providing an estimated £300,000 boost for the local economy.

Digital TV switchover starts this week

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 06:32:00 +0100

The switchover to digital TV begins Tayside and Fife on Wednesday, with a special warning made for some Fife residents.

Review: Land Rover Discovery 4

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 10:45:00 +0100

Sometimes you look at an expensive car and wonder where the money went. Quite often the cash is under the bonnet, in the form of a powerful engine. Other times it's inside, in the form of expensive gadgets and luxurious trim. With the Discovery 4 it's in both these places, but it's also staring you straight in the face.

Beauty in the Eyemouth at Gunsgreen House

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 07:10:00 +0100

With 'staycations' on the rise, Richard Watt beholds a Scottish beauty — Eyemouth.

Fishing alterations 'defeat purpose' of Kirkcaldy drainage pond

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 19:07:00 +0100

An appeal for help has gone out to residents in a Kirkcaldy housing development after an overly keen angler attempted to stock the estate's drainage pond with fish.

Nissan adds diesel to Murano options

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 17:59:00 +0100

Nissan have finally given the Murano the card that was missing from its deck — a diesel. I've long been fond of the blingy, extroverted SUV, but could never bring myself to fully recommend it given the 3.5 litre V6 only returned around 23mpg.

Bonhams' Scottish Sale has lots to bid for

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 16:05:00 +0100

Items including paintings by Dundee artist Alberto Morrocco and a rare first edition Oor Wullie annual go under the hammer in Edinburgh next month.

Street theatre festival returns to St Andrews

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 15:14:00 +0100

The Byre Theatre's St Andrews street theatre and outdoor performance festival Inside Out returned to the streets on Friday with various activities across the town.

Bell Rock Blues Fest getting louder

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 14:39:00 +0100

While not (yet) challenging the scale or fame of the Dundee Blues Bonanza, Arbroath's Bell Rock Blues Festival continues to go from strength to strength and this year's line-up of around 30 acts spread across 13 venues over the weekend of August 28/29 promises to be the best yet.

Radio ice cream recipe proves tastebud challenge

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 12:22:50 +0100

Among the many culinary delights Scotland has to offer natives and visitors alike are its top-quality soft fruits, mouth-watering fish and chips and delicious ice cream.

Repainted Forfar swimming pool on track to open on schedule

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:00:00 +0100

The second major revamp of Forfar swimming pool in less than seven months is on course for completion in early August.

Geocachers to descend on Perth

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 10:28:00 +0100

Thousands of hi-tech treasure hunters from all over the world are preparing to descend on Scotland this weekend for a special Perth 800 event.

Gold golf keepsake a dear Old Course reminder

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:35:00 +0100

With a price tag of £19,350, this pen is a fair way more expensive than your average biro.

HaVeN group celebrates book publication

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:35:00 +0100

Service users at a Dundee mental health charity were celebrating in style after becoming published poets.

Review: Bus Stop, at Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:43:00 +0100

It's probably the film of William Inge's play that is best known to most people with Marilyn Monroe playing the showgirl who gets swept off to Montana by a hormonal young cowboy.

Auchmithie sees opportunity for own arts festival

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:56:00 +0100

The picturesque village of Auchmithie, near Arbroath, is to hold its first dedicated arts festival next month.

Dinner will mark start of Mearns celebration

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:12:00 +0100

The Mearns Connections festival, planned as a celebration of a land that inspired the cultural icons of Robert Burns, James Leslie Mitchell — better known as Lewis Grassic Gibbon — and Joan Eardley kicks off next week with a marquee dinner.

Insect's identity bugs Burntisland reader

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:02:00 +0100

A Fife man is seeking help from Courier readers in identifying a small bug he discovered in his garden a number of weeks ago.

Animated over Abertay study's potential

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:53:00 +0100

Research carried out at Abertay University in Dundee could revolutionise the realism of animated films and computer games produced around the world.

UK premiere for Infiniti's M line

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:40:00 +0100

Infiniti's first M Line saloons have arrived in the UK, with prices for the petrol-powered M37 starting at £35,150.

Introducing the Peugeot 308 GT THP 200

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:46:00 +0100

Peugeot is celebrating its 200th anniversary with a 200hp hot hatch version of the 308.

Website aims to click with visitors to Highland Perthshire

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:21:00 +0100

A groundbreaking website aimed at promoting Highland Perthshire has been launched after a year of development.

Dunfermline gives a window into the world of art

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:32:00 +0100

Art in Shop Windows, running until August 15, showcases the work of artists from Contemporary Arts Dunfermline (CAD).

Fibrecity Dundee deal brings superfast broadband closer

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:59:00 +0100

A project to bring a superfast broadband service to homes in Dundee has been boosted by the announcement of a multi-million-pound telecommunications deal.

Review: Decky Does A Bronco

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:21:00 +0100

Theatre company Grid Iron took a host of awards 10 years ago with their innovative production Decky Does A Bronco.

Delight as baby red squirrels 'thriving'

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:41:00 +0100

A wildlife enthusiast from Aberfeldy who rescued two baby red squirrels this year after their nest was blown out of a tree has released the animals into the wild.

Review: Fiat Punto Evo 1.4 MultiAir GP

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 21:00:00 +0100

Fiat's on a bit of a roll at the moment, with the universally popular 500 and the resurgence of the sporting Abarth wing of the company.

Superstars come to play the Smokie Blues

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:30:00 +0100

Organisers of the seventh International Smokie Blues Festival in Angus expect this year's event to sell out after confirmation two of the biggest names in the jazz world will be appearing.

Survey seeks swift sightings

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:13:00 +0100

Countryside rangers across Perth and Kinross have appealed for members of the public to record sightings of swifts.

More for less with new BMW X3

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:51:00 +0100

Here is BMW's new X3, which will be cheaper and better equipped than the outgoing model.

Big Tent Festival diary

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:40:17 +0100

It is less than 10 miles from Balado and has also expanded to become a three-day festival where wellies are a must. But that's about where the similarity ends between the Big Tent held on Falkland Estate in Fife at the weekend, and T in the Park, held just down the road at Kinross a fortnight ago.

Dibble Tree Theatre wowed by Michael Jackson routine

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:31:00 +0100

The remarkable dance and choreography talents of a young Carnoustie girl have earned her special recognition from the teacher who runs the Stage Stars classes at the town's Dibble Tree Theatre.

Hoping for firm footing at Blair Castle trials

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:21:00 +0100

THE Blair Castle International Horse Trials are a month away and organisers are hopeful the event on August 26-29 will have perfect underfoot conditions.

Mega Geocaching Event finds way to Perthshire

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:17:00 +0100

Combining orienteering and satellite navigation technology, geocaching brings treasure hunting into the 21st century. Ahead of Scotland's first mega geocaching event, involving thousands of participants, Jack McKeown headed for the wilds of Perthshire to see what all the fuss is about.

Transmitter changes will offer partial Freeview service

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:57:00 +0100

The Menzieshill water tower has been chosen as the new site for the TV transmitter serving the Charleston area of Dundee — but viewers will only get a partial Freeview service.

Dundee Blues Bonanza's last stand proves a hit for revellers

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 07:59:00 +0100

The 16th Dundee Blues Bonanza finished in fitting style with a spectacular closing concert at Deja vu.

Review: Dirty Laundry by Fiona Sinclair

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:53:00 +0100

An often gruelling but always gripping read, Fiona Sinclair’s first work through Koo Press provides a refreshing change of approach to the chapbook format.

In the mind of a serial killer

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 13:17:00 +0100

Solving the crimes of the past, cold cases or offences that have never left our minds yet have never been brought to a satisfying conclusion, seems like something we only see in television drama. Picking up the threads of times and crimes gone by seems like the territory of fiction rather than fact.

Rollicking start for Dundee Blues Bonanza

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 10:33:00 +0100

Dundee Blues Bonanza 2010 kicked off in style with a concert featuring internationally-renowned acts.

Big Tent Festival opens under sunny skies

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 09:43:04 +0100

Music fans poured into Falkland Estate as beautiful weather greeted the start of the three-day Big Tent Festival on Friday.

The party's not yet over

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 17:08:00 +0100

For a lot of people, now that T in the Park is done and dusted, that's it ... festival season over. Wrong! We're still right in the thick of it and in fact there are two big events on this weekend, writes Alan Wilson.

Decky Does A Bronco comes to Lochee Park

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:26:42 +0100

A theatrical production with a difference takes place this weekend when the Grid Iron company brings Douglas Maxwell's Decky Does A Bronco to Dundee as part of a national tour. Helen Brown spoke to young actor Finn den Hertog about what the play — and the open-air location at Lochee Park — mean to him.

Boost for Friends of Wighton in Dundee

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:20:00 +0100

A generous donation was presented to the honorary librarian of the Friends of Wighton in Dundee to preserve and promote the collection of Scottish music.

Aphids' reign likely to be shortlived

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:13:00 +0100

An apparent explosion in the number of aphids across Tayside and Fife in recent weeks should give residents no cause for concern — except, perhaps, the gardeners and farmers among us.

Don't forget your wellies for Falkland's Big Tent festival

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:55:00 +0100

Festival-goers heading for Big Tent this weekend are being reminded to take their wellies.

RSPB report record number of birds of prey poisoned

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:11:00 +0100

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has claimed that more birds of prey were illegally poisoned in Scotland in 2009 than at any time in the past 20 years.

Games companies to be consulted before tax break door closes

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:46:00 +0100

Dundee's video games sector was given a boost when it emerged the door has not been entirely shut on tax breaks for the industry.

Review: Limbo (Xbox 360)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:54:00 +0100

A charming independent game that surpasses the art direction of blockbuster titles, Limbo's developer sets the bar high, while making questionable business decisions.

Review: An Ideal Husband, at Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 19:39:00 +0100

Oscar Wilde's political and social comedy — the precursor to The Importance Of Being Earnest — is given a lavish treatment by Pitlochry as the story unfolds of politician Sir Robert Chiltern whose parliamentary position and wealth has been founded on corruption.

Family face to face with artistic ancestor

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:41:00 +0100

A family came face to face with one of their ancestors on a visit to Kirkcaldy Museum and Art Gallery.

Raffle winner Andrew Grant Beetles off with mint condition classic

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 07:35:00 +0100

The last act of this year's Scottish Transport Extravaganza has played itself out near Glamis, with one lucky winner driving off with a classic car.

Kia Sportage released on August 1

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 21:03:00 +0100

Although the full range won't go on sale until late in the year, Kia is releasing a version of its new Sportage SUV at the start of next month.

Recalling a lost Dundee tradition

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 16:32:00 +0100

A local writer who penned a tribute to a "much-loved Dundee tradition all but gone" was yesterday celebrating the first night of a new run of sell-out play The Berries — Twa-an-a-Half Pence a Pund.

Cairnie mega maze celebrates Battle of Britain

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:26:00 +0100

A giant maze north of Cupar has been shaped like a Spitfire to mark the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Canada threatens Scottish games industry 'brain drain'

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 07:42:00 +0100

Dundee West MP Jim McGovern and the head of the body which represents the computer games industry are to meet Scottish secretary Michael Moore as they restate the case for tax breaks in the sector amid warnings of a talent “brain drain.”

Treats in store in Dundee Rep's autumn season

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:26:00 +0100

The return of award-winning musical Sunshine On Leith, three of Alan Bennett's classic plays from his Talking Heads series, Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House and a musical about Lochee featuring local pupils are part of Dundee Rep's autumn season.

Review: Sacred Hearts by Sarah Dunant

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:48:00 +0100

One of the best things about belonging to a reading group is being presented with the type of book you would not normally have chosen for yourself — and finding a gem. This was the case with Sarah Dunant's Sacred Hearts.

Review: Alfa Romeo MiTo MultiAir

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:51:00 +0100

The car market has changed beyond belief over the past decade, partly due to changes in society. People are getting married and having kids later (or not at all), and, as a result, they have more money and less need for a big Mondeo or even Focus-sized barge. Hence cars like the MINI and this, the Alfa Romeo MiTo.

Scots car sales at odds with UK recovery

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:44:00 +0100

New car sales in Scotland dropped by 6% last month, despite the UK market as a whole growing by 12.5%.

Award-winning Black Watch production returning for USA tour

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:50:04 +0100

The acclaimed theatre production Black Watch will return to America next year after a UK tour.

City bars tune up for Dundee Blues Bonanza

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:32:00 +0100

It's that time again — a little later than usual — that wondrous weekend when the streets of Dundee throng with thousands of people and there's live music coming from every second pub in the city centre.

Review: The White Woman on the Green Bicycle by Monique Roffey

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:12:00 +0100

Perth Readers Circle member Linda Caston struggles to warm to this Orange-nominated novel set in steamy Trinidad.

Artists trade up to inspire works

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:31:00 +0100

Nine artists who have been taking their craft into the city's workplaces held a public display of their endeavours at a final gathering this weekend.

Fifer comes face-to-face with his forefathers

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:46:00 +0100

A member of a Fife family has just come face to face with images of two of his ancestors who feature in one of the most important paintings in the history of golf — The Golfers, a Grand Match at Golf.

Digital TV message driven home at St Andrews

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:29:00 +0100

TV viewers served by the Angus transmitter have been warned they face a blank screen if they don't switch to digital soon.

Review: Even the Sea by Eleanor Livingstone

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:58:00 +0100

Just as the coastline dominates Even the Sea's vistas, readers are struck by the proximity and absence of Fife's vital element, a tide skilfully managed by Eleanor Livingstone.

Review: An Act of Murder by Alan Wright

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 14:28:00 +0100

The 2010 winner of the Dundee International Book Prize was a clear favourite with the judges. Those at its launch at the Dundee Literary Festival heard that it was streets ahead of fellow competitors. Will the fiction-buying public think the same?

From Lochee to Afghanistan — ex-SAS man Bob Shepherd's story

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 08:46:00 +0100

A Dundee-born former member of the SAS who has spent the last 15 years as a security adviser in some of the world’s most dangerous locations is to publish his first fiction novel next month.

Hands-on approach at St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 19:49:00 +0100

Sit down in most Scottish restaurants worth their salt these days and chances are that you will have the opportunity to sample some of the great cheeses of Scotland. Helen Brown spoke to Fife's only artisan cheesemaker, Jane Stewart of the St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company, about putting "Anster" on the culinary map.

Volvo V60 sizes up demand for coupe-like estate

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 19:01:00 +0100

Volvo has sacrificed a modicum of practicality to come up with one of
the most handsome estate cars on the market.

Pittenweem festival will focus on creative talent

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:14:00 +0100

Pittenweem is readying for its annual arts festival, which returns next month.

Nine Trades artists' Final Gathering at DCA

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:04:00 +0100

Over the past year, a group of artists has been taking art to the workplace as part of the Nine Trades of Dundee. Led by Duncan of Jordanstone, the project has looked at artists who are also tradesmen and women.

Caird Hall date for National Youth Choir of Scotland

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:31:00 +0100

On Saturday, for the first time in over a decade, the National Youth Choir of Scotland will perform in Dundee. It finds its young talent from 13 area choirs across Scotland, and the NYCoS Dundee is one of the largest. Dundee director Fiona McIntosh talked to Ursula Pool about working with NYCoS.

Rough Crossing as Pitlochry puts on a show

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 20:48:00 +0100

This year at Pitlochry three productions look at the world of theatre itself — all with a comic slant.

Nobody's Perfect at Monifieth

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 19:27:00 +0100

Monifieth Amateur Dramatic Society held a dress rehearsal last night for the production it is performing next week.

Peugeot reveals the 508

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:27:00 +0100

Peugeot has taken the wraps off the 508 — the handsome Mondeo rival that will go on sale early next year.

DCA's Shorts For Wee Ones perfect for a rainy day

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:30:31 +0100

A troupe of acrobatic snails and little boggle-eyed people made of coloured string are but some of the characters offering children and their parents a reprieve from rained-in boredom.

Busy month for Abarth

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:39:00 +0100

Abarth, the sporting arm of Fiat, has two new numbers coming up this month.

Big plans for Vane Farm nature reserve

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:57:00 +0100

RSPB Scotland's Vane Farm nature reserve by Kinross is set for expansion and major changes over the next year.

Aberdeen International Youth Festival returns to Webster Theatre

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 18:52:00 +0100

A major international youth festival will return to Arbroath later this month, organisers have confirmed.

Where to click if something's been nicked

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:16:00 +0100

A former Monifieth man — whose grandfather was a jute baron in Dundee — is helping people get their stolen property back.

King Creosote still painting the fence

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 20:23:00 +0100

Kenny Anderson — stage name King Creosote — achieved renown for being the man who set up a record label in his living room. Fifteen years on, Jack McKeown finds Fence Records is still going strong, representing around 15 artists and now has an 'office' in a run-down tenement building in Cellardyke.

Revised Mercedes CL-Class on sale in September

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:16:00 +0100

Mercedes' facelifted CL-Class coupe will go on sale in September, three years after the car's introduction.

Website stirs interest in artist David Waterson

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:27:00 +0100

Almost 60 years after his death, the life and work of Brechin artist David Waterson is more widely appreciated than before thanks to a virtual gallery.

First flight for youngest osprey chick

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:35:00 +0100

A 24-year-old osprey which made a miraculous recovery from a recent illness has exceeded the expectations of experts by surviving this year’s breeding season to see her latest chicks successfully make their first flight from their Perthshire nest.

Review: Crackdown 2 (Xbox 360)

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 17:12:00 +0100

Story, visuals, controls: criticisms of the first game are levelled at its successor but an increased sense of childish fun make up for some deficiencies.

Review: Kiss Me Kate at Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:17:00 +0100

The theatre in the hills is delighting audiences with its talented ensemble, who combine acting and musicianship to equally-high standards.

SSPCA nurses wounded badger back to health

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 15:45:00 +0100

SSPCA officers have released a badger back into the wild after it was found wounded in a snare in the Scottish Borders in June.

Angus anglers suffering dry spell

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 12:34:00 +0100

Angus anglers are blaming the drought for poor catches and are saying the county's two major rivers are at their lowest levels in living memory.

T in the Park opens with fantastic Friday

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 08:28:00 +0100

T in the Park 2010 started with a bang as 70,000 campers partied to the sounds of Muse, Black Eyed Peas, Calvin Harris, Faithless and many more.

Family bliss at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 20:29:00 +0100

Heading off with heavy scepticism and believing a pre-packaged Center Parcs holiday is for people who don't want to experience the REAL outdoors, Michael Alexander soon finds Whinfell Forest offers a perfect family retreat within easy reach of home.

Kinross: a town transformed by festival fever

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:34:00 +0100

Kinross is a typical Scottish town for 362 days a year but it transforms into the country's music capital for one weekend in July.

Byre Theatre to appeal funding cut

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:49:00 +0100

The Byre Theatre in St Andrews is to appeal against the Scottish Arts Council decision to withdraw flexible funding with the resultant £320,000 in grant loss over two years.

T in the Park veteran happy to give this one a miss

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:36:14 +0100

A generation has grown up with T in the Park, but T-veteran Michael Alexander takes a light-hearted look at why, this year at least, he'll be happy for events to carry on without him.

Old Course Hotel wins domain name battle with taxi man

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 09:43:00 +0100

A Fife taxi firm boss attempted to make financial gain from US billionaire Herb Kohler’s St Andrews firm after he snapped up an internet domain name it wanted.

Flood gates open to T in the Park revellers

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 07:48:00 +0100

The music world’s attention was again turned to Kinross-shire as T in the Park threw open its gates to the first festival-goers.

Baby Range Rover to be called Evoque

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:52:00 +0100

The wraps have finally come off the hotly-anticipated compact Range Rover, as the company announced its latest and boldest car will be called the Evoque.

Actress Angela Branney's role is joust the ticket

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:27:00 +0100

A Carnoustie actress has been playing a key role in one of this summer’s most exciting events — the Spectacular Jousting Extravaganza at Linlithgow Palace.

Catch the mysterious big cats prowling the countryside

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 07:41:00 +0100

A group of enthusiasts aims to solve the mystery of big cats prowling the Scottish countryside with a network of cameras designed to capture evidence of the animals.

Dundee boys ready for T in the Park limelight

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 06:36:00 +0100

For all Dundonians heading to T in the Park this weekend, the back of five on Sunday will witness the proudest moment in the city's rich musical heritage.

Review: Kia cee'd

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 21:52:00 +0100

Kia gave their oddly titled cee'd a mid-life facelift at the tail end of last year in a bid to take it more upmarket. Or more midmarket, to be precise — it's no Golf inside. But then, with prices starting at £12,595, it doesn't have to be.

Expert fears Tay dolphins could be driven away for good

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 20:34:00 +0100

An expert on wildlife disturbance issues has warned that Broughty Ferry's pod of bottlenose dolphins could be lost forever if irresponsible jet skiers continue to harass them.

Seat's Good Stuff for singer Shakira

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:09:00 +0100

Seat's sponsorship of the Colombian pop goddess Shakira even extends to naming a car after one of her songs.

William Littlejohn paintings given to Arbroath

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 07:32:00 +0100

Two works by a celebrated Arbroath artist are to return home after they were given to Angus by a major arts academy.

Turbo diesel Mini roars into view

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:35:00 +0100

The ever-popular Mini gets an update later this year, with the headline news being the introduction of a new turbo diesel engine.

Work of artist Liz Yule on display in Perth

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:11:00 +0100

The latest exhibition at the Frames Gallery in Perth showcases Fife artist Liz Yule.

Aston Martin DB9 gets even better

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:53:00 +0100

Aston Martin's elegant DB9 has been given its most significant range of upgrades since it was launched in 2003.

Make Sparks ready to make most of big break

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:21:00 +0100

Each year since 1996, Tennent's Lager have given every unsigned musician in Scotland the chance to play their biggest gig ever in front of the country's most devoted music lovers at T in the Park on the T Break Stage.

Ospreywatch planned for Loch of Kinnordy

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:34:00 +0100

An Angus nature reserve has announced plans for an ospreywatch this month in a bid to give would-be twitchers the chance to view the birds at close quarters.

Osprey bloggers seek help with Lady tribute

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:32:00 +0100

A group of bloggers are hoping to pay tribute to Lady, the Loch of the Lowes osprey, by creating a book of poetry and photographs.

Forest Holidays' log cabins make Argyll a natural choice

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 10:13:00 +0100

Time spent in a log cabin in the heart of Argyll allows plenty of time for nature gazing, relaxation and walking, as Lisa Trainer found out.

Review: Mazda CX-7

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:48:00 +0100

A couple of years ago I reviewed the Mazda CX-7 and praised it to the high heavens, with one rather major caveat — there was no diesel option.

Be quick to catch the East Neuk Festival's sand sculpture

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 16:50:00 +0100

Crail folk have seen some impressive sand castles in their time — but nothing like the work of art stationed in their High Street.

Rosanne Cash promises concert of a lifetime at Big Tent Festival

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 15:34:00 +0100

She was driving through Cape Cod, en route to New York City but, despite her glamorous surroundings, Rosanne Cash had only one thing in mind — her forthcoming visit to Fife!

James McIntosh Patrick oil painting sells for £8100

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 10:01:00 +0100

A painting of Auchterhouse by James McIntosh Patrick has been sold for £8100 in Perth.

West Fest art focuses on past masters

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 09:08:00 +0100

As part of Dundee’s first-ever WestFest, a very special exhibition is running at the University Tower Building’s Lamb Gallery.

Sound the charge for Scottish Game Fair weekend

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:57:00 +0100

The Scottish Game Fair which gets under way in the grounds of Scone Palace this weekend is hoping to top last year’s record-breaking crowd of 36,000.

Maggie's Music Festival weekend arrives

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:16:00 +0100

The biggest indie music event ever to hit Dundee's city centre starts tonight, with over 100 bands at 17 venues around town, and all proceeds going to the Maggie's Centre.

T in the Park safety vow from Tayside Police

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:19:00 +0100

The officer in charge of policing at Scotland's biggest music festival has given his assurances that people's safety and security is top priority.

Sharper look for new VW Jetta

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:14:00 +0100

Volkswagen have unveiled their new Jetta, which goes on sale in the UK next spring.

Review: Noises Off at Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:40:00 +0100

Noises Off is Michael Frayn's wonderful comedy which makes a farce of a farce within a farce.

Professor Nicholas Terry backs games industry tax breaks

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:20:00 +0100

A leading academic at Abertay University has backed a campaign by two local MPs demanding the reinstatement of tax breaks for the computer games industry, following claims the plans could cost Dundee 200 jobs.

Getting serious about games at HCI 2010 conference

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:56:00 +0100

Video games fans worldwide are hoping a conference to be held in Dundee will produce the next big thing in interactive technology.

Facebook funding for Fringe funnyman Bruce Fummey

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:41:00 +0100

A comedian from Perthshire hopes to be laughing all the way to the Fringe by using Facebook to market his summer shows.

Thousands not ready for digital TV switchover

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 09:17:00 +0100

Around 20,000 homes in Tayside and north Fife are still not prepared for the digital switchover a month before the analogue signal in the area is switched off.

T in the Park to bin the vuvuzela

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:51:00 +0100

T in the Park has banned punters from bringing noisy vuvuzelas to the Balado festival.

Crawling and climbing in young artists' work

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:55:00 +0100

Two young Fife artists are hoping to launch their careers at an exhibition in Aberdeen.

Artist Allan Perera-Liyanage flying high

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:27:00 +0100

A Perthshire artist has been honoured by his peers who have selected one of his works to hang in a major London exhibition.

New Volkswagen Touareg is longer but lighter

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:15:00 +0100

Volkswagen's new Touareg will cost from £38,255 when it goes on sale in October.

John Stoa grows the art of gardening

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:16:00 +0100

It's a growing fascination — gardening has something for everyone these days, from the youngsters keen to help the environment by growing their own, to the seasoned garden-lover with a passion for colour and style.

APB launch ends blood, sweat and tears

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:47:00 +0100

Five years of blood, sweat and tears — and late night takeaway pizza — has finally brought its rewards for a leading Dundee computer games company with the launch of their latest title.

A revealing drive in a Citroen C3

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:35:00 +0100

Citroen have always made cars that are a little bit different and the new C3 is, well, no different. Elegant and far more attractive than the model it replaced in January, its most distinctive feature (and one of its best) is the panoramic windscreen.

Visitors flock to see recovering osprey Lady

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 20:10:00 +0100

Osprey watchers have been flocking to the Loch of the Lowes nature reserve near Dunkeld to see its "miracle bird" make a stunning recovery.

Ribby Hall Village: another side to Blackpool

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:34:00 +0100

There's more to the north-west of England than Blackpool Pleasure Beach, as Michael Alexander discovered on a family-friendly short break to the five-star self-catering Ribby Hall Village.

Time is of the essence for student Catherine Weir

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:11:00 +0100

A photographic and electronic media student from Brechin has been awarded the BP Fine Art Award at Robert Gordon University's Gray's School of Art Degree Show.

Tentsmuir the perfect spot for marketing campaign

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 13:59:00 +0100

A photo of the stunning sands of Tentsmuir is to grace billboards and bus stops across the country.

Lobbying claims over scrapped games tax relief

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:39:00 +0100

Foreign games companies lobbied the British Government to abandon plans to give its homegrown firms tax breaks, it has been claimed.

Hundreds enjoy Wee Tree Party

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:37:00 +0100

Glastonbury may have been the headline news for music fans this weekend, but another festival made its mark on a smaller scale among the hills of Fife — as 500 revellers descended on a farm near Auchtermuchty for an eco-friendly weekend of music, dancing, mountain-biking and more.

Alan Wright wins Dundee International Book Prize

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 17:41:00 +0100

A Beano-inspired slice of murderous Victoriana has scooped this year's Dundee International Book Prize — and £10,000 for its author.

Engine trouble ends Chris Rea's Knockhill hopes

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 17:01:00 +0100

Rock star Chris Rea's engine blew up at the weekend, casting the one shadow on an otherwise successful 2010 Scottish Speedfair and Classic Festival in Fife.

Jamie Byng tells Canongate's uplifting story

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:55:00 +0100

Good judgment or luck? You cough up $40,000 for the memoirs of an unknown American senator after seeing his photograph in a bookshop. He defeats Hilary Clinton for the Democratic nomination and goes on to become America's first black president.

Legend Pat Mills the highlight of Dundee Comics Conference

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Pat Mills, launch editor of the famous science fiction comic 2000AD, led the legends of comics who took part in Dundee's latest Comics Conference.

Wow factor of words on show at Dundee Literary Festival

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:23:00 +0100

Saturday's line-up at Dundee Literary Festival prolonged the week's pattern of appreciative audiences being knocked for six by wonderful words.

Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition's 40th year

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 09:31:00 +0100

The work of more than 200 artists is on show at Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition, which is celebrating 40 years of success.

Help! Paul McCartney fans left without ticket to ride

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 19:24:00 +0100

A group of Sir Paul McCartney fans from Dundee were nearly left waiting in the wings after a trip to see the former Beatle perform in Glasgow turned into a magical mystery tour.

Remembering Scotland At War website preserves vital stories

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 16:21:00 +0100

The Black Watch plays a central role in Scotland's pioneering new online museum, Remembering Scotland At War.

Review: Big Beach Sports 2 (Wii)

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 12:01:00 +0100

With long school holidays just around the corner, a game that promises to keep the little darlings amused when the weather refuses to play ball could be money well spent. Unfortunately, this beach-themed offering from THQ's value range is more Bognor than Bondi.

Corsa is Dundee car thieves' vehicle of choice

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 09:23:00 +0100

The humble Vauxhall Corsa is the top target for car thieves in Dundee, police revealed this week.

The Coral plan new tricks for T in the Park

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 19:57:00 +0100

There's less than two weeks to go to this year's T in the Park and the expectation is rising among both fans and the acts who are playing at Balado.

Top writing talent at Dundee Literary Festival

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:41:00 +0100

Livewire was the name given to the event that opened day two of Dundee Literary Festival.

Thrill-seekers still harassing dolphins in River Tay

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:25:00 +0100

Cruel speedboat and jetski users are continuing to harass dolphins in the River Tay, despite warnings from animal groups and the police.

Ferrari fan Chris Rea to race to Scottish SpeedFair

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Musician Chris Rea won't be taking the road to hell at the weekend when he is set to draw the crowds to Knockhill.

Cash demanded for Dundee video games jobs

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:02:00 +0100

Scottish Labour leader Iain Gray has demanded a £5 million cash injection for the video games industry in Dundee, still smarting from the UK Government's decision to pull the rug on vital tax breaks.

Landowner loses patience with Burnmouth Fishings campers

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 17:12:00 +0100

Wild campers have been accused of blighting a Perthshire estate and turning one of the world's finest fishing beats into a rubbish tip.

Dundee Literary Festival starts with eastern premise

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:15:00 +0100

The fourth Dundee Literary Festival is under way, and is co-sponsored by The Courier.

Swinney to lobby for video games tax relief

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 09:55:00 +0100

Scottish finance secretary John Swinney has pledged to press the UK Government to think again about abandoning plans for tax relief for the video games industry.

Graduate Benjamin Birt out to give Facebook a poke

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 09:32:00 +0100

Internet phenomenon Facebook could soon be given more than a poke by a Fife graduate who is developing a rival social networking website.

Osprey's comeback amazes web audience

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:58:00 +0100

Experts have been watching in amazement as Scotland's most famous bird of prey continued to make what has been billed as the greatest comeback since Lazarus.

Diesel model for popular Vauxhall Insignia

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 20:01:00 +0100

Pleasantly surprised by the success of all-wheel drive versions of the Insignia, Vauxhall is expanding the range to include a diesel 4x4 model.

Digital design students unveil artwork

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 16:47:00 +0100

Two Mearns students have unveiled their final-year projects at the Gray's School of Art degree show.

Lady the osprey shows 'fighting spirit'

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 10:46:23 +0100

Scotland's most famous bird of prey has come back from the brink of death in a bid protect her two young chicks.

Suzuki release shots of new Swift

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:29:00 +0100

Suzuki have released the first images of the new Swift, which goes on sale in the autumn.

Review: Scarecrows by Jon Stone

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:52:00 +0100

While Jon Stone's poetry has been full of youthful zeal, Fife publisher Happenstance's pamphlet Scarecrows gives the reader a sense that this showboating has evolved.

Gnashional Trust properties to host comic capers

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:00:00 +0100

Young hell-raiser Dennis the Menace and his faithful hound Gnasher are taking up residence at some National Trust for Scotland (NTS) properties this summer, offering lots of fun and hi-jinks for visiting families.

Iranian hackers attack Scottish Game Fair site

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:10:00 +0100

The Scottish Game Fair website has been targeted by Iranian hackers, just three weeks before thousands of people come to Perthshire for the event.

Hopes start to rise for Loch of Lowes osprey Lady

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:34:17 +0100

With supporters around the world watching her every move, Loch of the Lowes osprey Lady is back flying and feeding — but still looking a bit fragile.

Blondie steals show at RockNess

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:06:00 +0100

She's old enough to be a granny to the majority of the 20,000 or so fans at RockNess. All the more impressive, then, that Debbie Harry was the big, glamorous star of the Sunday.

Review: Mazda 3 MPS

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 19:39:00 +0100

With a whopping 256bhp, Mazda's 3 MPS is the most powerful hot hatch this side of the Ford Focus RS — which costs nearly £6000 more.

Byre Theatre considers staff cuts

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:27:00 +0100

The Byre Theatre in St Andrews might have to look at cutting back some of its work, and even staff, if there is no change of heart from the Scottish Arts Council (SAC) over its decision to withdraw the theatre's flexible funding from April.

Deer cull demanded after hot spots report

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:10:00 +0100

A project undertaken by the Deer Commission for Scotland has identified areas in Angus as hot spots for accidents caused by the animals straying on to roads.

Loch of Lowes osprey Lady clings on to life

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:50:08 +0100

Bird-lovers from across the world are watching helplessly as life ebbs from Scotland's oldest osprey in her Perthshire nest.

Chicks on Speed: Don't Art, Fashion, Music at DCA

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 19:33:17 +0100

If cutting-edge art is about pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers, then the show running at Dundee Contemporary Arts — Chicks on Speed: Don't Art, Fashion, Music — is about as sharp as you can get. Helen Brown opened her eyes and her mind to find out more.

Chicks to join Fife sea eagle population

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 11:57:00 +0100

Fife's fledgling population of sea eagles, also known as white-tailed eagles, will soon be growing in number.

Interview: KT Tunstall on new album Tiger Suit

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 20:08:00 +0100

KT TUNSTALL announced her return to the stage with a gig in the tiny Drouthy Neebors in Dundee.

Byre Theatre defiant in face of funding cuts

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 14:54:00 +0100

The Byre Theatre in St Andrews will "never go under" in spite of the loss of well over £300,000 of Scottish Arts Council flexible funding, and any cuts in the operation would be a tragedy.

Derry: historic city with hope for the future

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 12:05:00 +0100

In the week the report into the Bloody Sunday shootings in Northern Ireland was published after the longest public inquiry in UK legal history, Michael Alexander recalls a recent trip to Derry where, slowly but surely, defiant wall murals are being replaced by messages of peace.

Citroen C4 has laser focus on economy

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 09:03:00 +0100

Citroen's new C4 is to go on sale early next year. The Ford Focus and VW Golf rival will bring a high-tech cabin and much improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions to the fray.

Barnetts Riverside holds night to sing about

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 20:03:00 +0100

Around 700 guests packed a Dundee car showroom for a gig with a difference as they celebrated the continuing success of the Barnetts dealership on Riverside, Dundee.

West End unites for first Dundee WestFest

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 18:39:00 +0100

Dundee's West End will be alive with the sound of music and just about every other kind of entertainment and celebration you can imagine when the first WestFest takes place this weekend. Helen Brown spoke to two of the organisers, Kay Macfarlane and Liz Broumley.

Scottish Game Fair hopes for record attendance

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:40:00 +0100

This year's Scottish Game Fair, in the grounds of Scone Palace next month, is shaping up to the biggest ever.

Byre Theatre loses Scottish Arts Council funding

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:24:00 +0100

There is concern for the future of the Byre Theatre in St Andrews after it was discovered that its flexible funding from the Scottish Arts Council is being withdrawn.

Steven Rajeff cast as Willowbank Fishery guest

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100

A world champion was in Perthshire yesterday to pass on some of his record-beating skills to anglers.

Flat-hunter warns against Gumtree scammer

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:36:00 +0100

A Dundee woman, asked to hand over nearly £1500 to a foreign property owner before viewing a West End flat, has warned others "to keep their wits about them."

Renault Latitude may not reach this longitude

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:05:00 +0100

Renault have unveiled their new upmarket saloon, the Latitude, but there's a big question mark over whether we'll get it in the UK.

Salt, vinegar and history — 150 years of the fish supper

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:50:00 +0100

They may not have realised it at the time, but people enjoying a fish supper this week have been taking part of one of the biggest birthday parties in Britain's culinary history.

Drama in Dunfermline to tell tale of Fife

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:35:00 +0100

There's a bit of drama in Dunfermline this week as an exciting tale is told.

Brian Johnstone steps down from StAnza

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 19:00:00 +0100

Fife writer Brian Johnstone has lived and breathed poetry every day for the last 10 years as director of StAnza, Scotland's international festival of poetry — and much more — but he has passed on the baton.

Video connects Letham Primary pupils with Irish friends

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:27:00 +0100

Letham youngsters have stretched a new hand of friendship across the Irish Sea.

Crackdown 2 coup for Dundee's Proper Games

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:27:00 +0100

A Dundee developer has been commissioned to create additional downloadable content for one of the year's most highly-anticipated games.

Review: Audi A5 Cabriolet

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:49:00 +0100

Ever since Princess Diana had one, drop-top Audis have occupied a special place in the hearts and minds of convertible buyers.

Dido and Aeneas challenge for Dundee High pupils

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:12:00 +0100

Pupils at Dundee High School are taking on an operatic challenge for their annual production this year, in the shape of Purcell's 17th century masterpiece, Dido and Aeneas.

Fife a star performer in May car sales figures

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:19:00 +0100

May saw a modest rise in Scottish new car sales, with 12,741 registered in Scotland last month — up 2% from May 2009.

Former owner reunited with Moggy the Morris Minor

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:17:00 +0100

A 1969 Morris Minor which will be a star attraction at this weekend's annual Festival of Historic Transport event has had a chance reunion with a former owner.

Realtime Worlds chief backs games exports role

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:00:00 +0100

A leading Dundee video game developer has backed the findings of a new report highlighting the industry's potentially "valuable role" in an export-led recovery for the UK economy.

Seat Leon Ecomotive stretches a gallon

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:07:37 +0100

Seat's new Leon Ecomotive emits a VED-exempt 99g/km of CO2 and stretches a gallon of fuel to 74.3 miles.

Review: Skirlags by Nalini Paul

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:51:00 +0100

A Scottish poetry chapbook which is a deeply spiritual wrestle with metaphor: rewarding and often baffling.

CATS awards make Dundee Rep country's most successful theatre

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:38:00 +0100

Dundee Rep has picked up three prizes at the Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland — and there was also success for Perth Theatre.

KT Tunstall Rub-A-Dub-Dub tour kicks off in Dundee

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 23:23:25 +0100

KT Tunstall returned to her old stomping ground of Dundee tonight to play an intimate gig to just 50 people.

Living the good life with Feather Down Farm Days

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:26:00 +0100

In search of the good life, Terry MacCallum packs up her family and heads to enjoy some Feather Down Farm Days in the Lake District National Park.

Kinnaird Estate's Dominic Serres painting fetches £64,000

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:23:00 +0100

A painting from the Kinnaird Estate in Perthshire which found itself at the centre of a long-running art world mystery has sold at auction for £64,000.

Citizen T plan to clean up T in the Park

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 14:28:00 +0100

A campign has been launched by the organisers of T in the Park to reduce the amount of rubbish left by revellers.

AC/DC act Bons Balls pay tribute to Stereophonics' Stuart Cable

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:24:00 +0100

A Glenrothes AC/DC tribute band who helped former Stereophonics drummer Stuart Cable celebrate his 40th birthday have paid tribute to the rock star, who died on Monday.

Review: Mazda 6

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:25:00 +0100

Mazda has given its popular 6 a midlife makeover. At first glance it doesn't appear much different, but in fact more than 400 changes have gone on.

The Ray Summers ready to make most of RockNess chance

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:17:58 +0100

Get ready to party -- the festival season starts in earnest this weekend when RockNess blasts off on Friday.

Andrew Miller celebrating three peaks charity success

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:31:00 +0100

A super-fit Errol man has risen to the challenge of climbing the highest peaks in Britain by completing his mammoth task in less than 24 hours.

KT Tunstall's tour of intimate venues

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:16:00 +0100

KT Tunstall will play an intimate gig in front of 50 people at Drouthy Neebors in Dundee.

Nick Cave fans cover road and miles to Dundee

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:32:06 +0100

An international audience will greet acclaimed singer-songwriter, writer, poet, actor and sometime philosopher Nick Cave when he appears at the Dundee Literary Festival later this month.

Wildlife enthusiast spots beaver in Invergowrie

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 16:50:17 +0100

A wildlife enthusiast from Invergowrie "couldn't believe his luck" when he made a rare sighting of a beaver while carrying out his early-morning paper deliveries.

Plans for new visitor centre at Ben Lawers

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:41:00 +0100

Moves to create a new visitor centre at the foot of one of Perthshire's most popular Munros have begun.

Nethergate Writers find more success with Whodunwhat

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 22:08:13 +0100

Dundee group the Nethergate Writers have seen sales of their fourth book Whodunwhat take off well in the days since its launch, proving there is a strong demand for fiction written by the area's talent.

Dundee Literary Festival welcomes Yann Martel

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:39:00 +0100

The 2002 novel Life of Pi won Yann Martel the Man Booker Prize. An international bestseller with more than seven million copies sold, it catapulted its Canadian author to fame. Ahead of his appearance at the Dundee Literary Festival on June 9, Yann told Jack McKeown about his latest work, Beatrice and Virgil.

New book gives insiders' guide to Dundee

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:34:00 +0100

A new Dundee travel guidebook has been launched to entice people to come and rediscover the city.

Psychics next target for author Neil Forsyth

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 19:37:00 +0100

Broughty Ferry-born writer Neil Forsyth shot to fame with Other People's Money — the extraordinary true tale of teenage fraudster Elliot Castro. Since then he's taken on internet scammers and penned a work of fiction exposing the tricks used by psychics. Ahead of his appearance at Dundee Literary Festival, Neil told Jack McKeown about fake psychics, jewel theft and Asia's worst prison.

Volvo and Mini impress with eco-friendly electric offerings

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 17:41:00 +0100

Recently I visited Millbrook proving ground in Bedfordshire, where all the major car manufacturers line up their latest products for test drives on over 30 miles of private roads. Among the most intriguing offerings were electric cars by Mini and Volvo.

Subaru Cosworth Impreza to roar off the forecourts

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 15:47:00 +0100

Subaru has confirmed pricing for its marvellously bonkers Cosworth Impreza STI 400.

Cramond Island revellers rescued in Firth of Forth

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:01:00 +0100

A Fife lifeboat crew was part of a rescue operation in the Firth of Forth over the weekend after dozens of partygoers became stranded on a tiny island off the coast of Edinburgh.

Dundee University student Naeto C a Nigerian hip-hop star

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:10:32 +0100

Juggling coursework and other commitments is a problem faced by every student — but few have to balance writing their dissertation with becoming a musical sensation.

Loopallu lineup starts to emerge

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 19:31:00 +0100

The Loopallu festival has announced the first acts for its sixth outing in September.

Laura McGhee's Celticana storms US charts

Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:32:00 +0100

Monifieth violinist and songwriter Laura McGhee is having a good year,
touring the USA and seeing her second album spending over a month in the Americana chart top 40. She told Jack McKeown about her plans to break America.

The Trade ready to rip up The Doghouse

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 21:16:00 +0100

If enthusiasm, swaggering confidence and being in possession of a clutch of top-notch indie anthems is a measure of success in the making, then Forfar's The Trade are heading right to the top.

Angus Glens Walking Festival off to great start

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 20:35:00 +0100

The Angus glens were at their early summer best to welcome the first of more than 300 outdoors enthusiasts to the area's 2010 walking festival.

Korova Conspiracy brings Steve Lee to Reading Rooms

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 18:31:00 +0100

Nearly 19 years to the day since making his Dundee debut behind the decks at the fledgling club night the Rhumba Club in Fat Sams, Steve Lee is back spinning tunes at the Reading Rooms on Saturday.

DCA screenings have a case of the baby blues

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 14:26:00 +0100

Dundee babies have been able to watch 15-rated movies at Dundee Contemporary Arts in breach of the centre's licence, the city's licensing committee heard.

KT Tunstall's new album completed

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 19:41:55 +0100

KT Tunstall has announced she has finished recording her new album and is set to confirm a series of shows throughout the UK.

More T in the Park tickets to go on sale

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:22:00 +0100

T in the Park organiser DF Concerts has announced it is to release more tickets for this year's festival at Balado.

Review: Carlo Curley at the Caird Hall

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:50:00 +0100

A queue at the Caird Hall box office, a delayed start and an audience of over 500? For an organ recital?

John McGie fisher lass painting to go for a small fortune

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:17:00 +0100

A young East Neuk fisher lass who posed for a painting by Glasgow artist John McGhie was paid half a crown along with a bar of chocolate. Now the resulting work of art is expected to fetch around £3000 when it comes up for sale with Edinburgh auctioneer Shapes on Saturday.

Home sweet home for Strathmore Vintage Vehicle Club

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 09:51:00 +0100

The old railway station at Glamis has ushered in a new era for the group behind Scotland's biggest annual gathering of vintage vehicles.

Brendan Cole brings Live and Unjudged to Edinburgh

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 20:20:00 +0100

Brendan Cole is busy, busy, busy. With the second tour of his extraordinarily successful Live and Unjudged show under way and a July wedding to plan for, the Antipodean dancer hardly has time to catch his breath. Nora McElhone chatted to him post-rehearsal to get an insight into his new show.

Nissan Juke will lead from the front

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 18:47:00 +0100

Nissan's Juke will cost from £12,795 when it goes on sale in September. Sitting underneath the Murano and Qashqai in Nissan's crossover family, the funky little Juke will be almost exclusively front-wheel drive, with only the top-of-the-range version getting four driven wheels.

Highlighting the dangers to youngsters of swimming in the South Esk

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:12:00 +0100

Brechin Community Council will launch a campaign to raise awareness amongst youngsters of the dangers of swimming in the South Esk.

Enthusiasts gather in St Andrews for a Triumph Stag do

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:52:00 +0100

St Andrews has hosted members of the Stag Owners Club (SOC) who are helping commemorate 40 years of iconic car the Triumph Stag.

Golf Match offers better value

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:10:13 +0100

Volkswagen is adding a new model to its Golf range that offers better value for money. The Golf Match replaces the SE model and has £1600 of extra equipment, but costs just £300 more.

Dundee University student's pillow design to keep love aglow

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:51:00 +0100

A Dundee University design student has dreamt up a product for lonely long-distance lovers — a glow-in-the-dark pillow that mimics a partner's heartbeat.

CairnGorm banks another extended weekend's skiing

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:15:00 +0100

Skiers were still out on Cairn Gorm this week in one of the longest and most successful seasons on record. And they might not be finished yet.

Review: UFC Undisputed 2010 (Xbox 360)

Mon, 31 May 2010 21:24:01 +0100

Qualms about online matchmaking and career blandness persist from the first game, but hand the second controller to a friend and this title becomes a consummate couch-filler.

Legendary organist Carlo Curley returns to Dundee

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:20:00 +0100

Organist extraordinaire Carlo Curley is returning to Dundee to give a recital in the Caird Hall, whose legendary instrument he helped to save in the early 1990s. Helen Brown spoke to him about his musical memories of the city and how much he is looking forward to revisiting what he calls "a king of instruments."

Review: New Writing Dundee 5

Mon, 31 May 2010 15:50:00 +0100

Dundee's primary creative writing showcase confirms that there is talent worth championing in the area. Obligatory hat-tipping perhaps denies the spotlight to some of our most raw 'new' writers, but the collection proves good value in its length and breadth of subjects.

Phibbies take the plunge for 'baltic' first swim of the season

Mon, 31 May 2010 14:28:00 +0100

Nine brave swimmers have taken to the Tay as Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association held its first swim of the season.

Horsecross unveils £13m Perth Theatre plan

Sun, 30 May 2010 15:22:00 +0100

The curtain has been raised on £13 million plans to redevelop Perth Theatre.

Internet blamed for DVD store closure

Sat, 29 May 2010 13:47:00 +0100

Kirkcaldy's last shop for DVD rentals has closed its doors.

Loch Melfort Hotel: the west at its best

Sat, 29 May 2010 10:24:00 +0100

Take warm sunshine, add Scotland's stunning west coast, sprinkle in some freshly caught seafood — and hold those legendary midges — and you have the recipe for the perfect weekend, finds Nora McElhone.

Review: Mini Cooper Mayfair

Fri, 28 May 2010 20:42:00 +0100

While driving Peugeot's new RCZ recently, I lamented that its plain-Jane interior didn't match its pretty external shape. What car does, countered a motoring press colleague. After humming and hawing, we could only come up with Jaguar's splendid but pricey XF. Both of us overlooked the Mini.

Dundee firms develop Virgin Atlantic app for iPhone

Fri, 28 May 2010 13:59:12 +0100

Two Dundee software companies have teamed up to create a program that allows people to track Virgin Atlantic flights from an iPhone.

Why Facebook privacy changes may not be enough

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:45:44 +0100

This week social network Facebook revealed it was installing new privacy controls so that its 400 million users can have more control over who can see their personal information.

Courier reporter Stefan Morkis examines whether information can ever really be kept private in the internet age.

'Watt Car' report outlines electric target

Thu, 27 May 2010 21:36:00 +0100

One in 10 cars on Scotland's roads should be electric if we're to meet our climate change targets, according to a report by WWF Scotland.

On tour with LOSTBOY! AKA Jim Kerr

Thu, 27 May 2010 21:24:00 +0100

It seemed like a good idea at the turn of the millennium. Ged Grimes — ex-Danny Wilson bassist — had settled down with the wife and kids and decided that his live gigging days were, on the whole, a thing of the past.

Packed line-up for Montrose Music Festival

Thu, 27 May 2010 20:49:00 +0100

The streets and pubs will be heaving again at the weekend for the third annual Montrose Music Festival.

Toyota Auris hybrid prices revealed

Wed, 26 May 2010 19:15:00 +0100

Toyota's Auris hybrid will cost from £18,950 when it goes on sale at the start of July.

Visitors out in droves for Dundee University art degree show

Wed, 26 May 2010 14:42:00 +0100

More than 6000 visitors flocked to Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design for Dundee University's art degree show within a few days of its opening.

Motorcyclist Derek Glass still leading pack at 50

Wed, 26 May 2010 13:43:00 +0100

A Kirriemuir motorcycle racer has celebrated his 50th birthday with wins in the first two meetings of the 2010 season.

Rosyth ferry captain's 'moment of glory' finally arrives

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:39:00 +0100

It might be a year late, but Rosyth ferry captain Antonio Arbilli's ship has finally come in.

Grants bring down cost of Nissan Leaf

Tue, 25 May 2010 19:55:00 +0100

Nissan's electric car, the Leaf, will effectively cost £23,350 when it goes on sale next February.

Terror 'Neath The Tay emerges from its lair

Tue, 25 May 2010 14:29:00 +0100

Just six copies sold will be enough to recoup the amount that was spent on the making of new Dundee DVD Terror 'Neath The Tay, which is launched this week.

Review: Peugeot RCZ

Tue, 25 May 2010 10:42:00 +0100

Not since the run-up to Audi's TT over a decade ago have I witnessed such enthusiasm for a mid-market coupe. Everyone who saw pictures of Peugeot's RCZ was bowled over by it — and I can confirm it's just as pretty in the flesh.

BMW M3 GTS takes power to a new level

Mon, 24 May 2010 15:38:00 +0100

BMW is to release an even more powerful version of its coveted M3.

Review: Sweeney Todd at Dundee Rep

Mon, 24 May 2010 14:29:00 +0100

Artistic director James Brining's latest show is a big, bold, beautiful production in which every element combines to maximum effect.

Doghouse date for The Boy Who Trapped The Sun

Mon, 24 May 2010 12:41:00 +0100

Colin MacLeod is The Boy Who Trapped The Sun — band name it might be and he might be going out with a band now, but TBWTTS is all his creation and is the cover for his songwriting and producing talents.

Trade still performing well after scrappage scheme

Mon, 24 May 2010 11:01:00 +0100

The ending of the scrappage scheme has slowed but not halted the increase in new car sales.

Crowds flock to knock-out Knockhill

Mon, 24 May 2010 10:46:00 +0100

The warm weather brought the crowds out in force at Knockhill for what was hailed as "the best" motorshows in recent years.

Family win tickets to mark Flybe anniversary

Mon, 24 May 2010 09:10:00 +0100

A Carnoustie family were all smiles at the weekend after winning free flights in celebration of Loganair's second anniversary of running air services from Dundee.

Mitsubishi ASX seeks piece of crossover action

Mon, 24 May 2010 08:48:00 +0100

Nissan really started something when they launched the Qashqai back in 2007.

Norway's fjord country: charming, beautiful and hospitable

Sat, 22 May 2010 20:38:00 +0100

It's the land of the midnight sun, National Geographic think it's the best travel destination in the world, and it's only an hour's flight from Scotland.

Perth writer wins Aberdeen festival prize

Sat, 22 May 2010 18:17:00 +0100

An aspiring Perth author has put himself on the Scottish literary map by winning the 2010 Toulmin Prize for his short story, My Life Through Colin.

Perth Museum opens first public Stella Steyn exhibition in UK

Sat, 22 May 2010 10:32:00 +0100

Enthusiasts for the work of Stella Steyn can now admire a selection of her paintings at Perth Museum and Art Gallery.

Review: Alan Wake (Xbox 360)

Sat, 22 May 2010 09:47:00 +0100

A deep action thriller that wears Poe and Twin Peaks influences on its sleeve, yet fails to resolve them in a satisfying manner.

Lorraine Kelly previews Dundee University art degree show

Fri, 21 May 2010 11:28:25 +0100

TV presenter Lorraine Kelly has launched this year's Dundee University degree show at an event for figures from the worlds of art and design.

Carnoustie band Make Sparks make it to the park

Thu, 20 May 2010 21:08:00 +0100

An ambitious band from Carnoustie that vowed to play at T in the Park within a year of forming will join the finest international and home-grown talent when they play the T Break stage in July.

Dundee joy as Caird Hall selected for Proms

Thu, 20 May 2010 17:37:00 +0100

News that the Caird Hall in Dundee will host the Scottish finale of The Proms in the Park in September, has been greeted with joy.

It's lichen dream in Gowrie orchard

Thu, 20 May 2010 17:03:00 +0100

People with an interest in orchards have joined a team of experts to examine an impressive example in the Carse of Gowrie.

Online sales could benefit Dundee games industry

Thu, 20 May 2010 16:49:00 +0100

Dundee's cutting-edge computer games sector is undergoing changes which might play to the strengths of local companies, an academic has said.

Pupils join forces with musician for lifeboat concert

Thu, 20 May 2010 16:01:00 +0100

A Catterline singer has teamed up with local pupils for a concert and CD in aid of a lifeboat museum.

McGovern's games tax claim questioned

Thu, 20 May 2010 08:28:00 +0100

The SNP were locked in a war of words with Dundee West MP Jim McGovern on Tuesday over the role he played in convincing Alastair Darling to include provision for games tax relief in his last Budget.

Angus Book Award is Numbers' game

Wed, 19 May 2010 17:20:38 +0100

Rachel Ward has been awarded first prize at the Angus Book Awards in Kirriemuir for her debut novel Numbers.

American Pie legend Don McLean will open Perth festival

Wed, 19 May 2010 15:35:00 +0100

The 39th Perth Festival of the Arts will be opened by legendary American singer-songwriter Don McLean tonight.

Dundee to host BBC Proms in the Park

Wed, 19 May 2010 13:33:50 +0100

The BBC's Proms in the Park are set to be held in Dundee this year after Glasgow pulled out citing financial concerns.

Brightsolid chosen to digitise Britain's newspaper archive

Wed, 19 May 2010 09:58:00 +0100

A Dundee company will help create one of the world's premier historical resources — an online collection of more than 40 million newspaper pages.

Sad end for home of Jackie O's nightclub

Tue, 18 May 2010 21:40:00 +0100

A long-established Fife nightspot which has been at the heart of the music and clubbing scene for eight decades has closed its doors.

Audi now taking A1 orders

Tue, 18 May 2010 20:47:00 +0100

Audi's foray into the small car market — the A1 — is available to order now, with first deliveries due to begin towards the end of the year.

Sunparks Limburgse Peel: ideal base to explore The Netherlands

Tue, 18 May 2010 19:31:00 +0100

If you are considering venturing outside the UK for your next family holiday, the picturesque Sunparks Limburgse Peel resort in The Netherlands could be just what you're looking for. Charlene Wilson spent a week there finding out exactly what the area had to offer.

A peak into charity mountain challenge

Tue, 18 May 2010 16:30:00 +0100

An intrepid Errol man will scale the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales in the name of charity.

Revolver and Curry & Coco at Duke's Corner

Tue, 18 May 2010 13:52:00 +0100

The students' music network Atom Live and French new scene promoter Oui Love have joined forces for a free Anglo-French tour throughout this month, bringing five of France's most hotly-tipped bands to the UK.

Seasick Steve joins Southern Fried Festival line-up

Mon, 17 May 2010 21:03:00 +0100

One of America's most iconic contemporary blues musicians, Seasick Steve, is to headline this year's Southern Fried Festival in Perth.

Tayside theatres in running for critics' awards

Sat, 15 May 2010 17:42:00 +0100

Tayside theatre is well represented in the shortlist for the annual Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland, with nominations in seven categories.

Memorable moments ahead in Angus Walking Festival

Sat, 15 May 2010 15:50:00 +0100

The Angus Glens Walking Festival is still just under a month away, but Philip Murray was one of a group given an early glimpse of some of this year's hikes.

Book explores J. M. Barrie's love of cricket

Sat, 15 May 2010 12:15:00 +0100

A book about Peter Pan creator J. M. Barrie's love of cricket has been launched at Kirriemuir library.

Audi playing power games with R8 GT

Fri, 14 May 2010 21:33:00 +0100

Audi has taken the already spectacular R8 and packed yet more horsepower into its latest release — the GT.

St Deluxe and Little Buddha at The Greenside

Fri, 14 May 2010 15:27:00 +0100

There's a great double bill of contrasting musical genres at The Greenside in Leslie, Fife, tonight.

Fife centre frees fox from wheel distress

Fri, 14 May 2010 15:10:00 +0100

A fox cub found trapped in a tyre is recovering in Scottish SPCA care.

Underground Heroes at Fat Sams and Devitos

Fri, 14 May 2010 13:17:41 +0100

Long-time Dundee friends Underground Heroes are back in Rocktalk country for a couple of gigs this weekend, starting at Fat Sams in Dundee tonight.

More happy campers for T in the Park 2010

Fri, 14 May 2010 09:27:00 +0100

T in the Park organisers have been granted permission to increase the size of the event's Thursday campsite by 5000 people.

Review: Vauxhall Meriva

Thu, 13 May 2010 13:35:23 +0100

The latest Vauxhall Meriva is unusual in that it's not an update of an old model, but an entirely new car that's competing in a completely different market to the one it replaces.

Fears over protection list's threat to barn owls

Wed, 12 May 2010 14:50:00 +0100

Nest boxes could be torn down and buildings "owl-proofed" if extra legal protection is given to barn owls, a leading Tayside environmental organisation has warned.

Alfa Romeo's Giulietta turns on the style

Sun, 09 May 2010 17:32:00 +0100

Alfa Romeo's stylish Giulietta will cost from £16,995 when it goes on sale in the summer.

Match joins Tiguan range

Sun, 09 May 2010 12:53:00 +0100

Volkswagen is launching a new model in its Tiguan range.

Susie Lee: painting in a different land

Sun, 09 May 2010 09:44:00 +0100

Moving from one end of the country to the other has given artist Susie Lee a new and dynamic perspective on the painting of landscapes. Helen Brown spoke to her about capturing the character of the land and the sea — and the eye-opening differences between north and south.

Review: Africa United — How Football Explains Africa

Sat, 08 May 2010 19:37:00 +0100

With the World Cup looming later this year, Steve Bloomfield reveals an amazing picture of Africa and its love of football in Africa United: How Football Explains Africa.

Plenty to play with in Chevrolet's Captiva

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:10:00 +0100

Chevrolet has released a new range-topping version of its Captiva SUV.

Abandoned martens in good hands in Dunfermline

Fri, 07 May 2010 16:49:00 +0100

Two pine martens accidentally cut off from their mother are recuperating at the Scottish SPCA’s Wildlife Rescue Centre near Dunfermline.

Fife exhibit to showcase art from Oceanic island

Fri, 07 May 2010 11:12:00 +0100

A show at Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery from May 15 to June 20 will offer Scots art lovers a rare chance to see work by contemporary artists from Papua New Guinea.

Tawny owlets are top attraction at Loch Leven reserve

Fri, 07 May 2010 09:59:00 +0100

A wealth of stunning bird life has been delighting staff and visitors at the RSPB’s Vane Farm nature reserve at Loch Leven.

City looks forward to Duncan of Jordanstone degree show

Thu, 06 May 2010 18:24:00 +0100

Dundee's economy will receive an estimated £1.5 million boost from the annual degree show by students at Duncan of Jordanstone college of art and design.

Perthshire play's big surprise awaits in woods

Thu, 06 May 2010 14:52:00 +0100

Perth Youth Theatre is promising free family fun as members perform a new "eco comedy" entitled The Tree.

Bike fans' generosity for young star Ciara

Thu, 06 May 2010 07:45:00 +0100

Dundee motorbike fans have raised almost £1000 to fund the rest of the season's entry fees for an eight-year-old Angus girl who has caused a stir in Scottish motocross circles.

Review: Aston Martin Rapide

Wed, 05 May 2010 22:51:00 +0100

The Rapide is Aston Martin's first foray into four-door territory since the Lagonda of the 1970s. It's an unqualified success.

Angus council's IT credentials defended

Wed, 05 May 2010 22:05:00 +0100

Angus Council’s corporate services convener, Mark Salmond, has defended its IT security after a report calling for tighter controls over computer access, passwords and data encryption.

Dundee art college graduate shortlisted for Turner Prize

Wed, 05 May 2010 20:38:00 +0100

A graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee has been shortlisted for the Turner Prize.

Huge turnout for Vettriano exhibition

Wed, 05 May 2010 20:04:00 +0100

A staggering 46,000 people viewed Jack Vettriano's latest work at Kirkcaldy Museum and Art Gallery, making it the most successful exhibition in the gallery's 85-year history.

Mearns roosters await their fate

Wed, 05 May 2010 10:28:00 +0100

A businessman who has fought for his sick daughter to keep two pet cockerels fears the birds could be for the chop if he loses his legal battle with Aberdeenshire Council.

Dundee sees coldest April day for a long time

Wed, 05 May 2010 08:22:00 +0100

Dundee experienced its lowest April temperature in almost 30 years last month, according to figures released by the Scottish Crop Research Institute in Invergowrie.

Ospreys ousted by geese at Balgavies Loch

Tue, 04 May 2010 12:03:00 +0100

A pair of ospreys who returned to an eyrie they built last year on top of a Scots pine at Balgavies Loch, east of Forfar, found they had been gazumped by a family of greylag geese.

Review: Les Miserables at Edinburgh Playhouse

Mon, 03 May 2010 22:07:00 +0100

Among those in the audience to see Les Miserables at Edinburgh Playhouse on Saturday was The Courier's Grant Reid — a man who does not like musicals. Would Cameron Mackintosh's 25th anniversary production win him over?

Dundee United record signing at bookstore

Mon, 03 May 2010 18:55:00 +0100

The latest chapter of Dundee United’s footballing story was launched with a signing ceremony in the city on Saturday.

Outdoors pair plan trek in support of forces charity

Mon, 03 May 2010 14:42:00 +0100

Two men from the east of Scotland are to undertake a gruelling cross-country trek in June to raise money for Help For Heroes.

Montrose Basin rescuers get stuck in to hard training

Mon, 03 May 2010 10:28:40 +0100

Montrose Coastguard team is one of only three in Scotland trained and equipped specifically for mud rescue.

Attack of the clones costs garage owner £12,000

Mon, 03 May 2010 08:16:58 +0100

A Dundee businessman who lost £12,000 in a stolen car cloning scam has warned others to be vigilant when buying a new vehicle.

Fishing Diaries: The end of the Oban jinx

Sun, 02 May 2010 19:09:31 +0100

While many of us were doing everything we could to avoid the Siberian temperatures that hit Scotland in the early part of the year, The Courier's Ian Lindsay braved the cold to fish for skate off Oban. Here he recounts an exhausting battle with a monster of the deep.

Legendary G-Class coming in October

Sun, 02 May 2010 17:51:55 +0100

After a 10-year absence, Mercedes' G-Class is making a return to British roads.

Review: A New History of the Picts

Sat, 01 May 2010 11:38:00 +0100

Author Stuart McHardy presents a new take on the Picts — dispensing with the popular image of "bestial tribes" and instead exploring a complex and misunderstood culture.

Seat releases Alhambra details

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 19:10:00 +0100

Seat has released details of its new Alhambra people carrier.

Data security sensitive issue for Angus authority

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:28:00 +0100

Angus Council's computer security levels have been attacked by a top-level government department, over fears that highly sensitive information could easily be accessed by the wrong hands.

Dundee Blues Bonanza gearing up

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 09:13:00 +0100

This summer's Dundee Blues Bonanza is shaping up nicely with more than 30 venues anxious to take part in what has become Europe's biggest free blues festival.

New Mitsubishi Outlander touches down

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:30:00 +0100

Mitsubishi's revised Outlander will cost from £25,999 when it goes on sale at the start of July.

Hug a tree and tell us about it: woodland trust

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 19:01:00 +0100

Outdoors enthusiasts are being asked to help put Perth and Kinross on the map by taking part in a giant Ancient Tree Hunt.

Review: Saab 9-3X

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 18:33:00 +0100

Poor old Saab. The once iconic company has been passed from pillar to post over the last wee while.

Dundee writer's book to be a school text

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:24:00 +0100

The first book by Dundee author Lisa Nicoll is set to be studied in schools alongside Shakespeare and the classics.

'Grandaddy' of folk festivals kicks off in Shetland

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:19:28 +0100

The end of April marks one of the most eagerly-awaited weekends in the Rocktalk calendar — the Shetland Folk Festival.

Ash cloud's silver lining for Monifieth country star

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:32:00 +0100

An Angus musician’s career is erupting with success in America, thanks to the Icelandic volcano ash crisis.

Nolan forced to pull out of Perth and Dundee performances

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:17:00 +0100

TV star Bernie Nolan has dropped out of a UK tour which began a run on Tayside last night.

Sweeney Todd's murderous link to The Courier

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 09:24:50 +0100

In three weeks, Dundee Rep opens its latest production, Sondheim's musical version of Sweeney Todd.

Review: Silent Hunter 5 (PC)

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 21:12:00 +0100

Persistent design problems come close to scuttling a gripping tale of cat and mouse.

Excitement tempered at crowded Angus sanctuary

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 20:35:00 +0100

A new arrival at an equine sanctuary has engendered mixed emotions at a centre struggling to cope with an increase in the number of their charges.

Perthshire writer talks on new-found love of short stories

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:54:00 +0100

They're tricky things, short stories. You would think, in an era of little time and less concentration, that a short, pithy, concise read would hit the spot with those who are perpetually juggling too much to do, with too few hours to do it in.

Cyclist takes to road to fund osprey research

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:48:19 +0100

One of the last mysteries surrounding Britain's most famous feathered friends could be solved due to the fund-raising efforts of a Perthshire cyclist.

Green light to reserve Renault's electric offerings

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 21:45:00 +0100

Those keen to be early adopters of the latest, greenest cars should head along to Renault's website where they can reserve one of the first ZE (Zero Emissions) electric vehicles.

Kirrie plans new salute to rock legend Bon Scott

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:14:00 +0100

As Kirriemuir prepares to mount a major celebration of Peter Pan creator Sir J. M. Barrie, the town is also looking towards making an annual salute to another of its successful sons — Bon Scott.

Website has no links with Dundee College

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:24:00 +0100

Would-be students may miss out on courses because they have been duped into thinking a foreign internet company is acting on behalf of UK colleges.

Letter craft now part of Perthshire castle's trail

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:56:00 +0100

An impressive sculpture trail has been laid in Blair Castle's gardens, incorporating existing contemporary and 18th century sculpture as well as eight new works from the Memorial Arts Charity's art and memory collection.

Solicitor's private fishing platform decked

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:45:00 +0100

A solicitor has been ordered to remove a platform over the River Tummel because it stops anglers flyfishing for salmon.

New Audi Q7 packed with choice

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 16:28:00 +0100

The latest version of Audi's big Q7 is available to order now with a range of new engines and transmissions.

Angus retrospective for artist William Littlejohn

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 11:52:00 +0100

A major retrospective of the Arbroath-born artist William Littlejohn, who died in 2006, is being held in The Meffan in Forfar and Arbroath Library Gallery.

Fife festival to welcome slice of African culture

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 09:28:00 +0100

A little piece of another continent will be taken to Fife this summer, as the Big Tent Festival has announced that its theme for this year is Moving with Africa.

Stonehaven: a hideaway in Scotland's history

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 21:57:00 +0100

Haunting and magnificent in equal measure is the best description for one of Aberdeenshire's most visited attractions.

Mont Blanc climber honouring pact with boyhood pal

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 20:24:00 +0100

An intrepid Perthshire climber is hoping to scale western Europe's highest mountain in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Dundee's free blues spectacular set to bop

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 13:12:00 +0100

The celebrated Blues Bonanza will boogie into its 16th year in July, bringing world-class acts to the city and joy to the streets in what has been called one of the best free festivals in the world.

Dundee satellite station has window on the world

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 10:59:00 +0100

If you have been impressed by images from the eruption of the Icelandic volcano at Eyjafjallajokull, you may well have been looking at pictures from the Satellite Receiving Station at Dundee University.

Dundee festival welcomes Bad Seed

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:00:09 +0100

Novelist, Bad Seeds singer and former Birthday Party frontman Nick Cave will be among the leading attractions at this year's Dundee Literary Festival.

Famed artist visits Kirkcaldy to sign prints

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 13:22:00 +0100

Crowds gathered at Kirkcaldy Museum and Art Gallery on Thursday to welcome the return of a local hero.

Volvo's S60 looks a handsome choice

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 08:02:00 +0100

Volvo's big S60 will cost from £23,295 when it goes on sale in July.

Lecturer warns of PC virus phone scam

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 22:59:00 +0100

A Dundee University lecturer has warned computer owners in the city to be on their guard against a new phone scam.

Audio wizard putting egos through the shredder

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 22:05:00 +0100

Every now and then somebody, somewhere comes up with a good old-fashioned wheeze. The idea doesn't necessarily make loads of money, just captures imaginations and gives people a right good laugh.

Tubelord look to make friends at Dexters

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 21:40:00 +0100

Indie-punk popsters Tubelord return to Dexters in Dundee on April 27, armed with their debut album Our First American Friends.

Fans' favourite Sunshine On Leith coming back to Rep

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:54:26 +0100

Dundee Rep's Sunshine On Leith has delighted audiences all over the country and the good news is that it's coming back in the summer.

Flights chaos sees travel website traffic soar

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:38:37 +0100

Stranded tourists desperate to get home by any means have been turning to a travel website set up by a Fife couple.

Football nets leaving wildlife on the losing side

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 12:34:07 +0100

The public are being warned to take down children's football nets — because they are proving a menace to wildlife.

Arts body announces Fife community theatre project

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 06:48:00 +0100

The Carnegie Hall in Dunfermline was the setting for the launch of major community projects by the National Theatre of Scotland (NTS).

Rare frogs can now (possibly) be seen

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:45:00 +0100

A new creature, and master of deceit, has gone on show at Deep Sea World in North Queensferry.

Scottish talent to fore at Mearns festival

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:45:00 +0100

Home-grown talents will headline this year’s Yellow’s on the Broom festival of international musical thrills, fun workshops, aerial acts and illusions in the Mearns.

Review: Seat Ibiza Cupra Bocanegra

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:48:08 +0100

After spending time creating five-door versions of the Ibiza, eco cars and basically doing everything but develop the sporty cars the brand is known for, Seat has finally gone back to its roots.

High note for youth brass band

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:12:00 +0100

Three years of hard work led to the Carnoustie and District Youth Brass Band winning the advanced section at the British Youth Brass Band Championships in Manchester.

Dundee anthology marks fifth instalment

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 21:32:00 +0100

An anthology of writing from Dundee and around the world was published yesterday.

Dundee writer signs copies of latest novel

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 19:42:00 +0100

The author of four New York Times bestsellers visited Waterstone’s in Dundee last night to sign copies of his latest book, A Matter of Trust.

Show versus the volcano

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:28:00 +0100

Downfield musical Society in Dundee have promised the "show will go on" despite being hit by the air travel chaos caused by the volcano ash cloud crisis.

Endurance race conquered by Angus vet

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 17:04:00 +0100

A vet has overcome the physical and mental challenges of a 250km Sahara event, tagged the world's toughest foot race.

Audi updates an icon

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 15:54:00 +0100

Audi has run a feather duster over its iconic TT, adding some styling touches and extra equipment, and making engines more powerful and efficient.

Review: Renault Grand Scenic 1.9 dCi Dynamique

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 14:28:00 +0100

Given Renault's long history in the market it's no surprise that the Grand Scenic is one of the best mid-sized MPVs.

Perth arts scene set for sizzling summer

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 11:30:00 +0100

Festivals, shows and concerts form the basis of the summer season unveiled this week by Horsecross Arts in Perth.

Encouraging signs in latest sales figures

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 18:34:00 +0100

The Scottish car industry continued its climb out of the abyss last month, with sales up by more than 15%.

MacLean reveals plans for Perthshire Amber

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 16:04:00 +0100

Perthshire singer-songwriter Dougie MacLean has revealed plans for the sixth Perthshire Amber Festival.

New Touran unveiled in Leipzig

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 11:36:00 +0100

The latest Volkswagen Touran has been unveiled at the Leipzig Motor Show in Germany.

Pirated games ad shames council

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 11:01:24 +0100

A Dundee City Council employee is facing disciplinary action after pirated computer games were advertised for sale on the local authority's intranet.

Efforts to save Fife wildlife under way

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 19:21:00 +0100

The race to save "Ratty" is being run in Fife, as the region rolls out its bio-diversity action plan.

St Andrews readies for festival

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 18:38:00 +0100

Final preparations are being made for a festival which will see St Andrews' beaches and historic places become performance venues.

High five for refreshed Passat CC

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:21:00 +0100

Volkswagen's sleek saloon-in-disguise, the Passat CC, has been given a mid-life makeover.

Open golf fans head for the digital fairway

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:07:03 +0100

Golf fans around the world have the chance to take part in this year's Open at St Andrews — well, virtually.

Disgusted by Angus deer mauling

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:36:00 +0100

Dog owners who are being tempted to venture further out into the countryside to exercise their pets as the weather warms and evenings brighten are being urged to keep their animals under control.

Last day on slopes at The Lecht

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:18:00 +0100

Although there were 1600 out at the Scottish ski centres yesterday, the skiers and boarders were in the minority by over 200.

New artist resident at Scone Palace

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 15:05:00 +0100

Artist and textile designer Clare Robinson has been named artist in residence at Scone Palace.

Scots couple blogging epic cycle to Australia

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 09:23:21 +0100

An intrepid Scots couple are more than 4000 miles into an epic two-wheeled adventure from rural Strathearn to the other side of the world.

Raspberry loses some flavour over time

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:46:00 +0100

The spirit of Ian Dury permeates most of the production with his no nonsense views on disability, other people's attitudes and where they can stick ‘em.

Osprey defies age to lay an egg

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:40:00 +0100

A 25-year-old osprey has astounded experts at Loch of the Lowes by producing her first egg of the breeding season.

Rosanne Cash to play Big Tent Festival

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 09:15:36 +0100

The organisers of this year's Big Tent festival in July have secured a major coup with the announcement that Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash is returning to her ancestral home to perform.

Weather message raises eyebrows in Fife

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:54:00 +0100

It will no doubt come as a surprise to everyone in Fife who enjoyed Monday's spring sunshine that for a brief moment the county was apparently hit by a sudden return to winter.

Woman swaps nine-to-five for musical role

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:38:00 +0100

In a case of fantasy mimicking life — or perhaps vice versa — Dundee woman Gemma Duffy has swapped her day job as a clerical assistant with Dundee City Council and karaoke forays for a starring role on the stage.

Exchange groups perform 'Scottish play'

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 15:50:00 +0100

A group of French youngsters will take to the stage of Perth Theatre this week as part of an exchange visit.

Photo exhibition a polar spectacular

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 11:44:00 +0100

The stunning wildlife of the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia is the subject of a new photographic exhibition in Dundee's Verdant Works.

Lesley Joseph returns with Hot Flush!

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 09:39:00 +0100

'It's difficult to quantify it, really — it's thumbnail shots of people's lives, very, very funny but with pathos that makes it stick in your mind as a bit more than that. It's entertainment that works!'

Bluetones hit The Doghouse

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 20:03:00 +0100

Whisper it, but those "ridiculously fresh-faced" young chaps The Bluetones aren't so young any more...

Glenshee has season to be cheerful

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 11:05:00 +0100

Glenshee to close for skiing at the end of Sunday business after the best season for a decade.

Grand plans for Dundee's King's Theatre

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 10:33:00 +0100

Plans to buy and renovate the former King's Theatre in Dundee at the cost of around £20 million are being finalised for submission to a national funding body.

Dundee pianist benefiting from city's support

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 09:15:00 +0100

Helen Brown meets pianist Christina Lawrie and hears how her native city's support has allowed her to enter the recording studio for the first time.

Legendary Irish band visits Dundee

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 21:13:00 +0100

Who's up for a right old knees up at Fat Sam's on Saturday night?

Kia opts to turn on the style

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 07:53:00 +0100

The humdrum Kia Magentis is being replaced by something a lot more stylish.

Rep sharpens up for Sweeney Todd

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:02:00 +0100

Dundee Rep's next production is Sweeney Todd, and it promises to be a real feast of entertainment.

Polo adds world crown to roll of honour

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:41:25 +0100

Volkswagen's new Polo has been crowned 2010 World Car of the Year.

Mercedes R-evamp the R-Class

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:33:00 +0100

Mercedes have taken a fresh look at the big R-Class in a bid to improve its fortunes.

Perth centre sees huge rise in TV recycling

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:58:00 +0100

A Perth recycling centre has seen a 60% increase in the number of dumped televisions as Scotland prepares for the digital switchover.

Fife Vettriano exhibition draws crowds

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:21:00 +0100

Visitors to artist Jack Vettriano's new exhibition in Kirkcaldy are being given more time to enjoy the artwork on display.

Surely only a prat would fall for these

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 12:05:00 +0100

Last week, our motoring editor's inbox was even more flooded than usual, with manufacturers sending increasingly outlandish and unlikely April Fools press releases.

Review: Chevrolet Spark 1.0+

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 07:47:00 +0100

The Chevrolet Spark might seem to stand little chance of making an impact in the busy city car sector — but it has some tricks up its sleeve.

Montrose artist is right at home

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 06:42:00 +0100

Montrose art and curator Kim Canale has established a reputation for exhibiting contemporary art — in her living room, kitchen, bathroom and on the stairs.

Denki's 'black Monday' rocks local games scene

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:47:17 +0100

The computer games industry in Dundee has been jolted by the announcement that leading firm Denki has been forced into a major restructuring which could lead to three-quarters of the workforce losing their jobs.

Pitlochry's theatre of dreams

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:32:00 +0100

A range of "radical developments" announced on Monday are set to strengthen Pitlochry Festival Theatre (PFT) as one of Scotland's top attractions.

Review: Benedetti shows her versatility

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 10:54:00 +0100

Everyone knows Nicola Benedetti in an orchestral/concerto capacity, but few have seen her as a chamber musician or duettist.

Review: Metro 2033 (Xbox 360)

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:07:52 +0100

Innovative touches mark this title out from the crowd, but a difficulty imbalance mars what is otherwise an enjoyable single-player experience.

Review: The Elves and The Shoemakers

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:53:00 +0100

This Brothers Grimm tale, adapted by Mike Kenny, is an Easter treat.

Art lovers flock to Gleneagles

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:02:00 +0100

Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire hosted its annual Gleneagles For Art Lovers event in its elegant ballroom at the weekend.

John Bellany: an artist with Fire in the Blood

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:51:00 +0100

John Bellany's work hangs in the world's most prestigious galleries and in the homes of David Bowie and Sean Connery. One of Scotland's greatest living artists, he has taken part in a documentary about his life created by his film-maker son Paul. He tells Jack McKeown about Fire in the Blood.

Glenshee ski centre's double celebration

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:27:00 +0100

The Easter weekend proved a bumper one for the Scottish ski centres and Glenshee in particular.

3D football creates quite a spectacle

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 11:56:00 +0100

Football fans tuned in to a new viewing experience over the weekend, when the first match to be widely available in 3D was broadcast.

Bishop Hill: the blogger putting climate science to test

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 14:35:00 +0100

We've all heard it. The global temperature over the last few decades is accelerating, running away, threatening the planet. Except it's not — at least according to Milnathort author and blogger Andrew Montford. Bruce Robbins finds out more.

The Law cover miles on Stateside adventure

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 12:10:00 +0100

Over the years Dundee heroes The Law have been well up for grafting up and down the country — so the prospect of 13 gigs in 10 days didn't faze them at all, even when it involved travelling to and then across the entire width of the United States.

Taychreggan, Oban: you'll be in Awe of the loch

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 17:59:00 +0100

With the global economic downturn biting and some miserly exchange rates on offer, the popularity of the "staycation" has rocketed in recent months. Dave Lord joined the growing band of Scots who holiday at home with a stay at the 300-year-old former drovers' inn Taychreggan near Oban — named one of the most romantic retreats in Britain.

Our Future Glory follow American dream

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 12:42:00 +0100

If you don't ask, you don't receive. Old cliché it may be, but for Dundee-based rock/alternative/electro band Our Future Glory it was the spur that made them apply for a big showcase festival in America.

Saab hits back with new 9-5

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 12:14:00 +0100

Recently-troubled Swedish car maker Saab's new 9-5 will cost from £26,495 to £37,995 when it hits UK showrooms in the summer.

Life in fast lane with Crail karters

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:53:00 +0100

For one weekend every month racers from across the country descend on a secluded corner of Fife's East Neuk to battle it out in the Scottish
Prokart Championship. Craig McManamon joined them.

Glen Shee dreaming of a White Easter

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 06:28:00 +0100

Thousands of people are expected to descend on the white slopes of Glen Shee this Easter weekend — as the ski season defies the rule book and continues well into spring.

Young Rebel Set escape to Hustlers

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 19:53:00 +0100

Seven-piece Northern England band Young Rebel Set head to Dundee this weekend for a gig at Hustlers.

Dundee graduate wins website battle

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:19:33 +0100

A Dundee graduate has forced a police watchdog into a humiliating climbdown after they pinched the name of her website.

EH! — it's all in the name

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:30:58 +0100

Dundee band EH! launch their debut EP at the Doghouse on Saturday.

Seat's powerhouse hits sales floor

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:17:00 +0100

The most powerful production car Seat have ever produced arrives in showrooms today.

Angus rivers contamination checks

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:32:00 +0100

Environmental experts are to walk the land around key rivers and burns in Angus to check for contamination.

Review: Porsche Panamera 4S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:35:00 +0100

The Panamera is Porsche's first foray into the realm of four-door sport cars -- and while it's a gamble, it's a gamble that pays off.

Dundee students' disappearing act

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:07:46 +0100

Students may be renowned for vanishing from everywhere bar the pub, but now Dundee College's HNC acting and performing class is to show people how to drop off the radar completely.

Ford Focus RS500 unleashed

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:36:00 +0100

Fans of fast Fords can buy the ultimate Focus when the RS500 arrives in May.

Review: Jethro Tull, Perth Concert Hall

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 12:25:00 +0100

It is an astonishing 43 years since Jethro Tull were formed, although their veteran status was easily confirmed by the age of the faithful who filled Perth's splendid concert hall on Monday.

White Caterthun hill race returns

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:45:00 +0100

Around 60 half-marathon runners took to the hills of northern Angus at the weekend.

Nicola Benedetti: a star comes home

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:15:00 +0100

Violinist Nicola Benedetti is at Perth's Concert Hall on Friday as part of a chamber trio in the latest in a recital series she has devised and organised herself. Helen Brown speaks to one of the most gifted young artists of her generation.

Kirrie artist hands over latest work

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 22:41:00 +0100

A Kirriemuir artist has handed over his latest contribution to Dundee's public art collection.

Mountaineering council launches expedition archive

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:58:00 +0100

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland has launched an online database of expedition reports.

Bird lovers asked to keep eye on the sky

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:57:00 +0100

A wildlife group is asking people to look out for four familiar birds with an international lifestyle.

Rep set for Elves And The Shoemaker

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:04:00 +0100

Take a peek behind the scenes as Dundee Rep prepares for its first public performances of The Elves And The Shoemaker.

Julian Oliver: Painting with pixels

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 14:20:00 +0100

An exhibition of computer-generated art in Dundee features one program that will have generated around 36 million 'paintings' by the time it ends next month. Ursula Pool talks to the exhibition's curator, Donna Holford-Lovell.

Dame Jacqueline Wilson thrills young audience

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 12:01:00 +0000

Children's author Dame Jacqueline Wilson was given the kind of reception normally reserved for pop stars when she read extracts from her new book at Dundee University this week.

Marseille: Vive la difference

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 10:02:00 +0000

Twenty years after Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence attracted hordes of tourists and expats to the region, Nora McElhone finds the Mediterranean city of Marseille is the perfect base for exploring this stunning area.

Osprey back for her 20th year

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:35:00 +0000

The UK'S oldest breeding female osprey has confounded wildlife experts by returning to a Perthshire reserve for an incredible 20th consecutive year.

Thomas White: man of many sounds

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:55:00 +0000

The name Thomas White might not mean much to the mainstream music-loving public, but mention his two bands -- Electric Soft Parade and Brakes -- and the penny will soon drop. Alan Wilson catches up with the Brighton musician ahead of his gig at Duke's Corner in Dundee on Friday night.

Young Angus photographer's work in vogue

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 20:22:00 +0000

An Arbroath teenager is beginning to make a name for herself in the world of fashion and art photography.

Blair Castle showpiece promises to be best yet

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:54:00 +0000

One of the most eagerly anticipated events on the Perthshire calendar -- the Blair Castle International Horse Trials -- is set to be bigger than ever this year.

St Andrews student's seven summits record bid

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:37:00 +0000

A 20-year-old St Andrews University student is hoping to become the youngest Briton to conquer the highest mountain on every continent.

Kinnoull Hill rescue hero in line for award

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 20:27:50 +0000

A Perth police sergeant who saved an injured and disorientated pensioner from a 50-foot drop down a sheer cliff face is to receive a top award.

StAnza 2010 ends on a high

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:30:00 +0000

StAnza 2010, St Andrews' international poetry festival, reached its climax at the weekend with events at several venues around the town.

Promising signs for Loch Leven's brown trout

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:20:00 +0000

Recent research shows "hopeful signs" for the recovery of the world-renowned Loch Leven brown trout.

Rep launch for poetry collection

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:39:00 +0000

Andy Jackson, a librarian at Dundee University, has had his collection of poetry, The Assassination Museum, published by Red Squirrel Press.

Review: Afro Samurai (PS3)

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 13:57:00 +0000

Despite a slightly shallow nature, six-plus hours of kaleidoscopic action make Atari's new release worthy of a week's rental.

Kia Magentis toughens up for New York

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 20:17:00 +0000

Kia have opted for a much more aggressive design for the next generation of their Magentis.

St Patrick's Day launch for StAnza 2010

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 11:58:00 +0000

With such a strong Irish contribution to this year's programme, it was only fitting that StAnza 2010 -- Scotland's international poetry festival -- was launched in St Andrews on St Patrick's Day.

Big cats are out there, says Fife expert

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:44:00 +0000

Regular sightings of big cats continue in north-east Fife, a local expert has told The Courier.

BMW announces 5 Series estate release date

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:08:00 +0000

The estate version of BMW's formidable 5 Series will go on sale on September 18.

Review: Mitsubishi Lancer GS3 DI-D

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 20:04:00 +0000

With similar aggressive looks to its hell-raising cousin the Evo X, the Mitsubishi Lancer GS3 DI-D offers sporty excitement with one eye on economy.

Rep actor Paterson out of hospital

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:15:00 +0000

Dundee Rep ensemble actor Robert Paterson is out of hospital after being treated at Ninewells Hospital coronary care unit.

Fascinating Aida promise some scurrilous fun

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 13:07:10 +0000

Dillie Keane, founder member of cabaret trio Fascinating Aida, talked to The Courier this week ahead of what she promises will be "scurrilous, satirical and incredibly smutty" shows in Pitlochry and Kirkcaldy.

Rise in bird poisonings revealed in new figures

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:11:00 +0000

Perthshire and Angus are two of the hotspots for the poisoning of birds of prey, new figures reveal.

Graduate and police tangle over websites

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:22:00 +0000

A Dundee graduate who helped set up a new website to improve relations between the public and the police has had the name pinched -- by the boys in blue.

Police stop bus carrying members of The View

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:10:00 +0000

Police had to be called to intercept a bus carrying Dundee band The View and their entourage home from their producer's wedding because of the driver's complaints about the behaviour of some of those on board.

War veteran 'overwhelmed' by response

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:03:00 +0000

The 90-year-old war veteran and author of biography Forgotten Highlander said last night he was "overwhelmed" by the response to his book.

Going flipping mad in St Andrews

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:55:18 +0000

The thrilling world of parkour, or free running as it is often known, hit the streets of St Andrews at the weekend.

Pilot patrol is vital eye in the sky

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:29:44 +0000

Volunteer pilots of a flying unit which provides additional air assistance for emergency services arrived in the East Neuk at the weekend for a training day.

Glamis Castle provides birthday to remember

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:22:53 +0000

As far as birthday presents for his fiancee go, Liverpudlian Derek Low raised a weekend standard that will be tough to top.

Equus actor taken to hospital

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:20:00 +0000

Just days after opening to critical and popular acclaim in his role as the psychiatrist in Dundee Rep's Equus, actor Robert Paterson has been taken ill and admitted to the coronary care unit of Ninewells Hospital.

Review: Honda Insight

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:45:00 +0000

With Toyota experiencing some not-inconsiderable problems with their Prius, now could be the time for would-be rivals to gain some ground.

Call for education on internet dangers

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:17:00 +0000

The head of a Dundee charity that helps abuse victims has said children are becoming increasingly vulnerable to internet predators who target their victims through social networking sites.

Review: Fallout 3 (Xbox 360)

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:20:00 +0000

Bethesda Studios' new RPG may have its weaknesses, but it all adds up to a flawed masterpiece we're happy to class as a "must-buy".

Review: Subaru Forester

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 21:11:00 +0000

The Forester sees Subaru continuing to play by its own rules, producing another practical and robust workhorse -- with only the odd concession to today's fashions.

Review: Ford Mondeo Econetic

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:33:00 +0000

It used to be that people wanting a frugal car had to buy small. That's all changing.

Review: BMW Z4 sDrive 35i

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:59:00 +0000

This is a car that definitely deserves a 'most improved' award.

Review: Skoda Yeti

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:46:00 +0000

Spend some time picking the right model and the Skoda Yeti offers a monster of a deal.

Calvin Harris puts heart and sole into Dundee gig

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:50:00 +0000

Music star Calvin Harris is used to crowds at his gigs going crazy -- but he had a reaction he wasn't expecting in Dundee last night when he was caught in the face by a flying shoe.