Andrew Smart
Aberdeen, London
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SEO Reporter at Newsquest and blogger. he/him 🏴 🏳️🌈 andrew.smart@newsquest.co.uk
Articles by Andrew Smart
Charities SORP 2026: Trustee Annual Report compliance
With the Charities SORP 2026 finally upon us, organisations across the country are still getting to grips with what the changes mean in practice. For many, the same questions keep coming up; what’s changed? How does it affect us? And what can we do to stay compliant? To help answer these questions, our Non-Profit Team had the pleasure of welcoming clients to our Glasgow office for a session explaining the new rules, specifically the trustee annual report requirements.
Impact on Commercial Property SIPPs
As the nation continues to digest and scrutinise the contents of the 2025 Autumn Budget, it is worth revisiting the changes announced in 2024, which introduced significant reform to UK Inheritance Tax (“IHT”). While much attention has focused on the changes to Agricultural Relief and Business Relief from April 2026 and the farmers’ protests, which arguably resulted in the recent U-turn, there were also major changes announced for IHT and pensions – taking effect from April 2027.
5 ways employers can prepare now
A significant change to UK employment law is approaching. Both employers and employees will need to understand how the Employment Rights Act 2025 will impact them. The Act received Royal Assent in December 2025, with key changes being phased in throughout 2026 and 2027. In this blog, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about the changes coming into force this year, and how you can prepare.
The full list of River Island stores closing across Scotland in the coming weeks
A number of River Island stores across Scotland are set to close in the coming weeks as the popular clothing brand scales back its retail operations. In total, there are 33 outlets across the UK earmarked for closure, with these being found in places like Perth, Devon and Bangor. In Scotland, the chain's Perth branch is set to close on Sunday, 18 January; followed by Kilmarnock on Saturday, 24 January, and then Falkirk and Kirkcaldy on Saturday, 31 January.
Buzzing city named Scotland's best to live and its not Glasgow or Edinburgh
A city in Scotland has been named one of the best places in the whole of the UK for those aged under 35 to live. Dundee was named alongside spots across the country, including Canton in Cardiff and Norwich. The list was collated by The Times, who were looking for spots that were "vibrant, full of potential and relatively affordable".
'Glorious' Scottish island named one of the most underrated places to visit
A "gloriously unhurried" Scottish island has been named one of the most underrated spots to visit in the whole of the UK. The Isle of Bute was named alongside a number of unusual locations across the country, including Beverley Minster in East Yorkshire and the Maunsell Sea Forts in the Thames Estuary.
Avanti and CrossCountry issue updates on Scottish cross-border services
Train services in parts of Scotland and the rest of the UK have been greatly disrupted by heavy snow and ice, seeing a number of trains delayed and, in some cases, cancelled altogether. Travel for passengers and drivers has been made extremely difficult after much of the country succumbed to yellow, amber and red Met Office weather warnings brought about by Storm Goretti.
Virgin Media customers getting access to new 24/7 channel free of charge
From today (Friday, January 9), every Virgin Media TV customer will gain free access to Premier Spots Rugby, the UK's only dedicated 24/7 rugby channel. The channel has the most comprehensive club rugby coverage available across the country, making it a must-watch for sports fans. This is the only Pay TV service offering Premier Sports Rugby to all subscribers at no extra cost.
Coronation Street to air special one-off episode that gives sneak peak into 2026
Corrie will air a special episode next month (Image: ITV) Coronation Street is to air a special “flashforward” episode, which will offer viewers a one-off glimpse into the drama that is set to unfold in 2026. The one-off episode, which will air in February, will show an unknown character dead on the street before revealing the five potential victims, in what has been described as a complicated and intricate storyline.
10 luxury hotels named among the most popular in the UK amid 'remarkable growth'
Hotels in London and Edinburgh were named among the most popular in online searches (Image: Getty Images) 10 luxury UK hotels have been named among the most popular in online searches amid a "remarkable growth" compared to 2024. A number of locations in London, Edinburgh and more have seen a massive rise in the number of people searching for them over the last 12 months. Hotels like One Hundred Shoreditch and W Edinburgh were named by Hotels.com.
Why is it called Storm Goretti? When the snow and 90mph winds will hit the UK
The UK is currently undergoing a major cold spell, with yellow and amber weather warnings for snow and ice impacting large parts of the country, including Scotland and the Midlands. Storm Goretti is set to pose a danger to life as heavy snow blankets large parts of the British Isles and winds of up to 90mph bring danger to life and widespread disruption. The storm is looking to be so severe that meteorologists from the Met Office and BBC Weather have described it as a "weather bomb".
This is how black ice is formed and where it gets its name from
Black ice or clear ice can be especially dangerous for drivers in the winter (Image: Getty) With chilly sub-zero conditions being reported across the UK, many may find themselves more cautious about the hazardous conditions brought on by "black ice". Black ice can pose a serious threat to motorists on the roads as well as people walking on footpaths and pavements. With this type of hard-to-see ice becoming commonplace as we labour through the winter months, here is everything you need to know.
What do yellow, amber and red weather warnings from the Met Office mean?
The Met Office issues various coloured weather warnings throughout the year. Whether it's for extreme heat in the summer months or for snow in the winter, these warnings are a regular part of our year. Understanding what each of these warnings means is important as it could save you from serious bother. With that said, here is what each weather warning means and what to expect from them. What do yellow, amber and red weather warnings from the Met Office mean?
How to get free phone and broadband coverage with 02 and Virgin for a whole year
Virgin Media and O2 customers could get free phone and broadband for a year - see how (Image: PA) Virgin Media and O2 customers could have their phone and broadband bills totally paid for over the entire year in a new scheme being offered by the twin providers. Those who use the networks are able to make the most of discounts and freebies throughout the month of January, seeing some lucky users able to have their bills sorted for the rest of the year.
Amazon Prime Video to make massive change in huge quality boost to subscribers
Some Amazon Prime Video users can expect a massive change to the picture quality very soon (Image: Getty Images) Amazon Prime Video is set to greatly improve in visual quality, in a huge boost to some subscribers. The streaming platform has said that customers can expect more realistic images and greater detail as part of the move, but that they will need a new and sought-after gadget to make the most of this.
Dentist reveals the 1 surefire way to stop mould growing on your toothbrush
A dentist on TikTok has warned that there could be mould growing in the moist bristles of your toothbrush. Mould tends to favour moist and damp conditions, making the likes of bathrooms and kitchens prime real estate for this kind of fungi. A number of doctors have spoken out about this "silent epidemic" in the past, warning of the risks associated with using a mouldy toothbrush. One such professional concerned with this is Dr Ellie Phillips who says there is "only one way to be rid of it".
Surprise Google update could bring massive change for Gmail users
A surprise update from Google could bring a massive and much-needed change for those who use Gmail. The long-overdue update, which has been demanded by users for years now, will allow people to change their email address. Up until now, once an email address had been selected by a user, they were unable to change it. If Google users wanted to change their name, they would have to start a totally new account.
Little Mix's Jesy Nelson emotional as she shares babies' devastating diagnosis
Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has been left devastated after sharing the diagnosis given to her twins. In a video shared on social media, the singer said that her daughters have the most severe form of a rare muscle-wasting disease that can be fatal if left untreated. Jesy gave birth to her twins, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, prematurely at 31 weeks.
Gen Z have high hopes for retirement and believe they could retire at just 60
Gen Z have lofty retirement plans but how will they meet these goals? (Image: Getty Images) According to a new poll, the dream retirement for those classed as Gen Z is filled with travel, holiday homes and the writing of memoirs, with many believing they will be able to retire at the age of 60. The poll of some 2000 working adults found that 27% of Gen Z want to invest their pensions into experiences rather than possessions, while 16% dream of moving abroad later in life.
The Traitors fans call on an important part of the show to be axed
The Traitors has returned for its fourth series (Image: BBC) Fans have called on an important part of The Traitors to be axed or scaled back. This comes after Judy became the first victim of the roundtable on Friday, after she received the most votes from the Faithful. Discussing her time on the programme, she said: "Everyone was lovely. Such a range of people, a really different mix, but what we all had in common was that we were all nervous.
Does the 'Secret Traitor' know who the Traitors are on The Traitors?
The Traitors is back, and this time with a massive twist as the Faithful contend with both the usual Traitors and a brand new "Secret Traitor" on the BBC show. The regular grouping of Traitors is known to the viewers, with the identity of the Secret Traitor being a mystery to fans, the Faithful and even the Traitors themselves. Barrister Hugo, 51, head of communications Rachel, 42, and cyber security consultant Stephen, 32, are the regular traitors for the season.
Who left The Masked Singer 2026? Goldfish and Disc Jockey unmasked
Two contestants have been unmasked in the most recent episode of The Masked Singer on ITV. The programme made a triumphant return to telly this weekend, and is once again being hosted by comedian Joel Dommett. The judging panel will again include Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, Maya Jama and Mo Gilligan. Who was unmasked on The Masked Singer tonight? Goldfish and Disc Jockey became the first stars to be unmasked on The Masked Singer this evening.
Who has been banished and murdered on The Traitors tonight?
Two contestants have been murdered and banished from The Traitors in the most recent episode of the hit BBC show this evening. (Saturday, January 3). This comes after Judy became the first victim of the roundtable on Friday, after she received the most votes from the Faithful. Discussing her time on the programme, she said: "Everyone was lovely. Such a range of people, a really different mix, but what we all had in common was that we were all nervous.
The 12p kitchen item that'll stop your windscreen freezing as snow expected to hit UK
Experts have revealed a 12p item that will stop your car windscreen from freezing over amid plummeting temperatures. The handy life hack uses a common kitchen staple to save motorists time and money. While windscreen frost is annoying, it can also be dangerous and could see drivers hit with fines. To help combat this, experts have shared a simple 12p hack that is sure to help you out over the winter months.
Will my car insurance still be valid if I crash in snow or ice? All to know this week
With snow and ice covering large parts of the UK, many motorists have faced difficult driving conditions. Crashes become a much more common sight during times of hazardous weather, seeing many opt to remain indoors where it is safe. However, many of us have no choice but to traverse the roads, leaving many curious as to the rules regarding insurance. Will my car insurance still be valid if I crash during snow or ice?
Dentist issues warning over common habit that could give you gum disease
A dentist has warned using a hard toothbrush to clean retainers or Invisalign braces can be harmful (Image: Getty Images) A dentist has issued a warning over a common daily habit that could give you gum disease. Dr Andrej Bozic from Dentum has said that while many assume using a hard toothbrush to clean their retainers and Invisalign trays is safe and effective, this approach can actually do more harm than good.
Brits becoming more ruthless with spending amid high cost of living - new survey
Brits are planning to be more ruthless with their discretionary spending in 2026 by ditching takeaways, unused subscriptions and clamping down on nights out. An annual survey of some 2,000 adults found that 30% of those making cuts want to prioritise investing, with 19% of Brits hoping to smash their financial goals as soon as possible. Others plan to cut back on luxury purchases (29%), fashionable items (29%) and everyday conveniences like takeaway coffees (18%).
What time does a neighbour's loud music have to stop in the UK?
Loud music from next-door neighbours, especially on a weekday, is a common headache that comes with living in a residential area. Luckily, there are a number of rules in place to regulate this, as well as sanctioned actions you can take if you are affected. If you're unable to get to sleep and want to know what you can do to get your neighbours to quieten down, look no further. What time does a neighbour need to stop playing loud music in the UK?
How to see 'Santa's sleigh' flying across the skies over the UK this Christmas
Santa's sleigh coincidentally aligns with the International Space Station in the night sky (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) The exact time you'll be able to see "Santa's sleigh" over the UK has been revealed, but you'll have to spring out of bed very, very early on Christmas Day. This extraordinary object, which is, in fact, the International Space Station (ISS), is often spotted by families on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
When can you buy alcohol in Scotland? See the rules in place for supermarkets
Scotland has several measures aimed at reducing alcohol consumption and abuse, such as minimum unit pricing and restrictions on the sale of these beverages. In Scotland, customers visiting a shop or supermarket can only purchase alcohol within certain hours, with bars, pubs and clubs being exempt from this particular rule. If you're looking to buy a couple of beers but aren't sure if you will be able to or are just curious about the times, here is when you can buy alcohol in Scotland.
The opening times for Scottish shopping centres this Christmas and New Year
Christmas is here, and that means there will be some changes to the opening times of Scotland's most popular shopping centres. Shopping centres are a hive of activity over the festive period, with the exception of Christmas Day. If you're going shopping this month, here are the opening times of Scotland's most popular shopping centres.
These are Glasgow's 6 most scenic winter walks to enjoy this Christmas
Andrew Smart Glasgow is a large city with so much to enjoy and this certainly extends to its many walking routes which are popular during the Christmas season. While summer brings with it warmer weather , the winter is great for those who enjoy a crisp morning stroll or an afternoon wander in their thickest coat. Whether you're looking for a walk down the Nolly or want to traverse the heart of the city centre, there is a winter walk for everyone on Christmas and Boxing Day.
These are the 42 best gigs and concerts coming to Scotland in 2026
Are you looking to attend some amazing gigs and concerts in 2026? Well, Scotland has you covered, with hundreds of famous artists descending on venues across the country. From Glasgow's OVO Hydro to the Royal Highland Showground in Edinburgh, famous faces from the world of pop, indie and more can be enjoyed throughout the New Year. If you're looking to enjoy some memorable nights out, here are some of the best acts coming to Scorland in 2026.
Scottish lochside village named one of the UK's prettiest winter getaways
A stunning lochside village in Scotland has been named one of the best winter getaways in the whole of the UK by The Telegraph. The historic village of Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands was named alongside stunning spots from across the country, including Lindisfarne in Northumberland and Little Haven in Pembrokeshire. Glencoe was praised for its surrounding summits that look good no matter the weather and its "legendary" Clachaig Inn.
See the 8 channels disappearing from Sky and Virgin Media this December
Sky and Virgin Media customers will notice that some channels have vanished in the coming weeks (Image: Getty Images/Milos Cirkovic) Eight channels are vanishing from the Sky and Virgin Media offerings in the coming days, seeing old favourites like MTV Music axed forever. These changes will come into effect before the New Year and will mark a huge blow to the music content available to customers.
These are all the bank holiday dates for Scotland in 2026 - see full list
2026 is nearly upon us, making now the best time to start planning your holidays for the year ahead. When doing this, it is important to consider the bank holiday dates, so that you can make the most of your annual leave. These holidays are somewhat different in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK, with those north of the border enjoying dates like January 2 and St Andrew's Day as bank holidays. What are bank holidays and why do we have them?
Budget airliner launches new Scottish flight to popular Spanish city
A budget airliner has launched a new flight from Edinburgh Airport in Scotland to the popular Spanish city of Bilbao. Revealed earlier today (Thursday, December 18), the Vueling route will connect the Scottish capital to the largest city in the Basque Country. The new flights will operate twice weekly from March 28, 2026, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For those eager to jet off, tickets are already available to book online.
What's the difference between Scotland's Hogmanay and New Year's Eve?
While the rest of the UK celebrates New Year's Eve, things are somewhat different in Scotland, where we usher in the new year with Hogmanay. The tradition dates back hundreds of years and involves a number of crucial differences that some people are not familiar with. If you're looking forward to the start of 2026, but want to know what makes the date different in Scotland, here is everything you need to know. What is Hogmanay and how does it differ from New Year's Eve?
What are the bank opening times in Scotland this Christmas? See full list
Christmas and Hogmanay are among the biggest celebrations in the Scottish calendar, and, as you would expect, this time is fraught with a number of store and bank closures. High street banks across Scotland and the UK operate under reduced hours over the festive period, including the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Bank of Scotland and Clydesdale Bank. So, if you need to use one of the services provided at your local branch, you'll need to plan ahead.
When you need to take your Christmas decorations down to avoid bad luck
It can be annoying when Christmas decorations stay up well beyond the festive period (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) With Christmas rapidly approaching, the age-old question around when to put up and take down your festive decorations is raging on. For many people, it is very annoying when their neighbours start putting their lights up in the middle of November, while others get frustrated at the sight of decorations up well after the festive period.
Type these 2 numbers into Google for this special effect in nod to viral meme
You may have heard the term "6-7" a lot over the last few months from "annoying" youngsters who seem hell bent on making you feel as old and out of touch as possible. Once the realm of children and teenagers, the meme has quickly been adopted by Google through a new feature on its search engine. When people use the search term "6-7" on Google, they will be greeted by a strange Easter egg that wobbles the results page.
Why this 'superb' location in Scotland is the 'best place for stargazing'
Scotland is no stranger to places where you can catch a glimpse of the stunning Northern Lights or be wowed by the fiery spectacle of a meteorite shower. However, one place stands above the rest as the ultimate place to stargaze, beating out well-known spots across the British Isles like Cranborne Chase and the North Pennines. Galloway Forest Park in the South West of Scotland was recently named one of the best dark sky spots in the whole of the UK by the Camping and Caravanning Club.
This is how you can donate toys and gifts to children this Christmas
Oxfam and The Salvation Army are accepting donations this Christmas (Image: Getty Images) Donating toys and gifts to children in need near you is one of the greatest acts of generosity one can partake in during Christmas. The festive period is generally a time when we get together and exchange presents. However, there are families for whom this age-old tradition is not a possibility, seeing their children go without during this usually magical time.
How Sky customers can secure £100 vouchers to spend at over 100 stores
Sky customers can land themselves vouchers worth up to £100 - see how (Image: PA) Sky is offering customers and soon-to-be users the chance to snag £100 vouchers that work at over 100 stores. The Refer a Friend scheme, something that millions of customers are eligible for, allows users to share a unique link with their pals and loved ones. If they sign up for a Sky product, you and the person you encouraged to join will each get a voucher valid at stores across the country.
Stanley Baxter, beloved comedian and TV star, dies aged 99
Beloved comedian and TV star Stanley Baxter dies aged 99 (Image: Newsquest) Stanley Baxter, the celebrated TV star and comedian, has died at the age of 99. His friend and biographer, Brian Beacom, confirmed the Glasgow-born actor passed away on Thursday in Denville Hall, a care home in north London for retired actors. Baxter had been residing there since late 2023, just months shy of his 100th birthday.
Major change made to availability of Sky Q as future of service confirmed
Sky Q is no longer available online - see how to get it (Image: Getty Images) You will no longer be able to buy Sky Q boxes online as the major TV and broadband firm Sky confirms the future of the popular and long-running service. When users access the Sky website in search of one of these boxes, they will find that it has been removed completely, replaced by a message directing them towards Sky Stream. Those who somehow find the Sky Q page will be shown a message reading: “We’ve unplugged Sky Q.
Follow these 5 tips including eating these 11 foods to boost your skin this winter
A skin expert has revealed five top tips for keeping your skin clear over the winter months, including tweaking your diet to eat these 11 foods. As the colder months creep up on us, the temperature change can wreak havoc on our bodies and make it difficult for us to look and feel our best. This is why specialist skincare pharmacist Yasar Hussain has warned that the drop in temperature and lower humidity, paired with harsh winds, can be abrasive on our skin.
2 popular channels axed from Freeview after 23 years on the air
POP and Tiny POP are being axed from Freeview after more than 20 years on the air (Image: Getty Images/Emma Theobald) Two once-popular children's channels have been axed from Freeview this week. Free-to-air channels POP and Tiny POP have been pulled from Freeview and other platforms, with these closures bringing an end to more than two decades of linear broadcasting.
The five River Island stores closing across Scotland next year - full list
Five River Island stores across Scotland are set to close at the start of next year as the popular clothing brand scales back its retail operations. In total, there are 33 outlets across the UK earmarked for closure, with these being found in places like Edinburgh, Devon and Bangor. This major store closures come after the High Court approved a restructuring plan for the firm. The company has also secured rent reductions for 71 of its locations and has had some of its debt written off.
Where to watch all of Scotland's World Cup games as broadcasters confirm matches
Scotland is competing at its first FIFA World Cup in nearly 30 years, and to say that fans across the country are ecstatic would be an understatement. The 2026 World Cup is taking place in North America and is a joint effort between Canada, the United States and Mexico. With most of us being unable to attend any of the matches in person, watching all the action on the telly from the comfort of our own homes is the next best option.
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