Daniel Byron
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Dundee, Glasgow
As seen in:
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Journalist who joined the dark side of comms. Writer & bletherer ✍️
Articles by Daniel Byron
Scotland’s local news crisis isn’t just about newspapers closing
There was a time when the local newspaper was practically an institution. It told you who had been elected, who had been arrested, which roads were closing and what the council was spending your money on. It celebrated the ordinary, scrutinised the powerful and occasionally printed a photograph of someone receiving an oversized cheque. Not always glamorous journalism. But important journalism nonetheless. Today, the picture is rather different.
Who needs an algorithm to find love? Not Darren Holden of The High Kings: New single 77A out now
Forget your grand gestures and the epic tales of romance, a new single titled 77A by The High Kings is a testament to love found in the most ordinary and mundane of places. Hot off the heels of their inclusion in the Sinners soundtrack with Rocky Road to Dublin and Will Ye Go, Lassie Go?, they have released this folk ballad is more than just a song – it’s a vivid, poetic journey on a bus route, which captures a love story as timeless and genuine as the streets of Dublin themselves.
Second Democrat files to run in Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District Original
(WHTM) — A second Democrat has filed to run in Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District next year. Jennifer Brothers, a resident of Laceyville, Wyoming County, and a former corrections officer, filed with the Federal Election Commission on April 24 to run in the 9th District. On her campaign website, Brothers outlines a platform of issues including infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox.
The last time the world saw Pope Francis
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General election candidate faces anti-Catholic abuse
AN Alba candidate at the General Election has opened up about the sectarian abuse he endured during the campaign, describing himself as “benumbed” to anti-Catholic bigotry. Chris McEleny, who unsuccessfully contested the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West seat, revealed that he received one of his campaign leaflets back with a note that read: “Here’s your leaflet back. I don’t vote for Fenians who promote rebel music.
Dunkeld Bishop-elect Andrew McKenzie fond farewell as he prepares for new post
SCOTLAND’S newest bishop, Canon Andrew McKenzie, has shared his heartfelt reaction upon learning he would be leaving St Andrew’s Cathedral to become Bishop of Dunkeld. Canon McKenzie recalled receiving an unexpected Saturday morning phone call from the Apostolic Nunciature in London, inviting him to meet with the Nuncio, Spanish Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia. “When a priest is called to the Nunciature it is either to be made a bishop or to be excommunicated,” the Nuncio told him.
Cardinal Nichols welcomes Starmer's commitment to working with churches
New Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been welcomed by Cardinal Vincent Nichols after his comments about wanting his government to work with churches and faith groups. Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, secured a decisive victory in the July 4 general election, unseating the Conservative Party after their 14-year tenure. In his concession speech at Downing Street, outgoing Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged voter dissatisfaction.
What Douglas Is Cancelled teaches the Catholic Church about handling scandals
Steven Moffat’s Douglas Is Cancelled is a provocative and fast-paced satire that delves into the complexities of cancel culture, societal norms, and the media’s role in public scandals. Starring Hugh Bonneville as Douglas Bellowes, a TV presenter whose career spirals after making a sexist joke, the series offers a sharp critique of modern societal issues, making it a compelling watch for a wide audience.
Orange Order ban anti-Catholic songs such as Billy Boys and Famine Song
The Orange Order has banned its members from playing anti-Catholic anthems The Billy Boys and The Famine Song in this year’s parade season. The vow to punish anyone defying their orders, comes as the Lodge tries to rebrand its movement seen by many as a haven for sectarian bigotry.
Scottish Bishops call Catholics to align votes with faith in upcoming General Election
The Bishops of Scotland have published the following letter for Catholics in Scotland ahead of the General Election next month. General Election 2024 This General Election presents us with an opportunity to connect our voting to our Catholic faith and elect an individual representative who reflects as closely as possible our values and beliefs. It is an opportunity to proclaim the dignity and value of every human being, made in the image and likeness of God, and promote the common good.
Open Letter from Chris McEleny to Gourock residents
By Chris McEleny General Election Candidate As the pro-independence candidate at the General Election I have been asked by many my view on the Council granting permission for a 4,000 person Orange march on Saturday.
Provost 'sorry' for claiming Orange Order walk is 'spectacle'
A PROVOST has apologised after a column in a local paper – he wrote – declared that Orange Order walks are a “spectacle”. Provost Drew McKenzie, of Inverclyde, has previously thanked the freemasons and has attended dinners at Lodge Greenock Kilwinning No XII. The Orangemen are set to march through Gourock this Fair Saturday, with nearly 40 bands and a large contingent of marchers.
Scotland's bishops celebrate mass in Holyrood
Scotland’s bishops led a historic Mass in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, marking only the second time such a celebration has taken place within the parliamentary building – the first instance was in March 2018. Archbishop Leo Cushley was the principal celebrant for the Mass, which honoured the feast of Saints John Fisher and Thomas More, the patron saints of politicians. He was joined by Bishop John Keenan, Bishop Brian McGee, Bishop Joseph Toal, and Bishop Frank Dougan.
'It criminalises prayer' Buffer zone legislation passes in Scotland
NEW legislation to introduce buffer zones has passed the Scottish Parliament – and will move forward for royal assent. The law will prevent pro-life vigils from taking place within 200 metres of the 30 hospitals and medical facilities across Scotland where terminations are carried out. This comes as we have previously reported that a majority of Scots don’t back nationwide buffer zones.
Glasgow church where Peter Tobin hid a victim to close its doors
A HISTORIC Glasgow church is set to close in the next few years as its expenditure is set to grow to unsustainable levels. St Patrick’s in Anderston – infamously known for being the place of Peter Tobin’s final known kill – is currently facing a repair bill of £2m and have “no realistic way of raising it,” and parish priest Canon Paul Gargaro does not believe even if they could raise such money that it would not be the best way to spend it.
The Glasgow Wrap 🗞 Weekend Guide 24-26 May 2024
☁ Good Morning Glasgow! The Met Office still has a yellow rain warning in place today but looks like tomorrow might be dry. Here’s Friday’s Wrap + the Weekend Guide: 🏫 The council will be forced to use partly-qualified teachers to plug staffing holes amid ongoing budget cuts. - James McEnaney, The Herald. ⛪ St Patrick’s Church in Anderston will close for good within the next few years due to operational costs and a shortfall of parishioners.
Gaza priest visiting Glasgow says Palestinians are almost living in Hell
CITIZENS of Gaza are “living in (almost) Hell – if it wasn’t for the presence of Christ” a visiting priest from the area to Glasgow said. Father Gabriel Romanelli, said this during his homily at St Andrews Metropolitan Cathedral, where the congegration heard about just some of the horrors his parishioners face.
Majority of Scots don't back nationwide buffer zones
A HOLYROOD consultation on buffer zones has shown that 77% of respondents oppose the introduction of them in Scotland, this comes as the Gillian McKay MSP’s bill moves through the Scottish Parliament. Less than a third of the population in Scotland support the introduction of nationwide buffer zones around abortion clinics – polling data from Savanta ComRes shows, it was undertaken for the Scottish Parliament’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee.
Funeral plans announced for Fr Martin Chambers
FUNERAL arrangements have been announced for Father Martin Chambers, whose sudden passing shocked many. In a gesture that reflects the digital age as well as the widespread affection for Fr Chambers, both the vigil service and the funeral Mass will be open to the public and will also be livestreamed.
Divine contradiction: Lord Byron's dance with Catholicism
GEORGE GORDON BYRON – known more famously as Lord Byron – remains a towering figure in the literary world, celebrated not only for his seminal role in the Romantic movement but, more quietly, for his complex dance with Catholicism, as I’ll call it. This relationship was shaped profoundly by his Scottish roots and a life marked by extensive travels through Europe, where he encountered a rich tapestry of religious practices that both clashed with and complemented his inherited Calvinist views.
'SNP aren't taking it seriously' Scotland wide data shows toll of anti-Catholic abuse
OF all the religious hate crimes in Scotland 33% of them are aimed towards Catholics, despite Catholics accounting for just 13% of the population, Police Scotland stats show after a Freedom of Information request. Anti-Catholicism rose 15% from 2022 to 2023 – Glasgow bucked the trend however as religious hate crimes fell from 116 (in 2022) to 122 (in 2023). However in Edinburgh – in the same time period – cases more than doubled jumping from 26 to 68.
'Hell on earth' SCIAF call on climate action from Scottish Government
SCOTLAND “risks playing our part on making this planet hell on earth” those are the words of a SCIAF officer, as they call for the Government to step up with their plans to tackle the effects. This comes after the Scottish Government has announced its plans to ditch its targets of reducing carbon emissions.
War has become 'a way of life' for Gazans, according to Holy Land Franciscan priest
WAR “is a way of life” for those living in the Holy Land, that is according to a Franciscan priest living in the Holy Land. On Tuesday, Israeli forces deployed tanks to northern areas of the Gaza Strip and carried out airstrikes in Rafah, located in the southern part of the territory. These actions resulted in several casualties, according to local officials.
Edinburgh-based priest among first on scene after Sydney attacks
IN the aftermath of a devastating knife attack at the Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre in Sydney – Father Ninian Doohan was one of the first on the scene. The tragic event, which resulted in the deaths of seven people and injuries to a dozen others, including a nine-month-old baby, has resonated deeply with the Catholic community across the globe. Fr Doohan was temporarily serving at St. Patrick’s Church in Bondi, for holiday cover, his main parish is St. Patrick’s in Edinburgh’s Cowgate.
Fr Roger Dawson urges Holyrood to embrace 'culture of care' in leadership
FATHER ROGER DAWSON SJ, Superior of the Jesuits in Scotland, recently addressed Holyrood where he called for a fundamental shift towards a culture of care in society’s leadership. His address followed on from the surprising victory of the Cambridge women’s crew in this year’s Oxford and Cambridge boat race, where the team’s success was attributed to a culture of mutual respect and support.
Dundee priest raises £20,000 for Calais refugee charity after near-300 mile pilgrimage
A SCOTTISH priest has spoken about his pilgrimage to highlight the plight of immigrants and raise money for charity. Father Jim Walls, 51, who was first ordained in Dundee in 2005, took up the role of spiritual director at the Pontifical Scots College in Rome in September 2018. He walked from Iona to Lindisfarne, raising £20,565 — more than quadruple the initial goal of £5,000 — for St Maria Skobstova House of Hospitality in Calais.
‘Is this the kind of Scotland the SNP wants to build?’ Catholic Church slams SNP’s drug decriminalisation policy
THE Catholic Church in Scotland has criticised the SNP for calling for the decriminalisation of the possession and consumption of drugs. Members at last week’s party conference overwhelmingly voted in favour of a pivot in the party’s drug policy. An amendment on decriminalisation was accepted to the agenda motion calling for the devolution of drugs powers from Westminster to Holyrood.
‘That’s Holy water!’ Dundee priest gives Pope bottle of whisky after taking up role in Rome
A DUNDEE man who spent 14 years as a priest in the city has spoken of his new life in Rome. Father Jim Walls, 51, who was first ordained in Dundee in 2005, took up the role of spiritual director at the Pontifical Scots College in Rome in September 2018. A few weeks into his new job, the Fintry man enjoyed a meeting with Pope Francis for the first time and gifted him a bottle of Scotland’s finest whisky.
St Mungo: The patron Saint of Glasgow and his enduring legacy
St Mungo, also known as Kentigern, holds a revered place in Scottish history as the patron saint of Glasgow. His life and legacy are woven deeply into the cultural and spiritual fabric of the city and beyond. This profile delves into his historical significance, the miracles attributed to him, and the symbols associated with his ministry that continue to define Glasgow’s identity. Born in the mid-6th century, St Mungo’s early life is marked by legend and mystery.
Faith and Stone: A tour of Scotland's historic Catholic sites
Scotland, a land steeped in history and spirituality, is home to some of the most significant Catholic heritage sites in the world. From ancient abbeys to majestic cathedrals, these sites are not only places of worship but also monuments to Scotland’s rich religious history and its tumultuous yet profound relationship with Catholicism. This article tours major Catholic churches, shrines, and historical sites across Scotland, highlighting their historical and spiritual significance.
Faith in Verse and Prose: Tracing Catholicism's imprint on Scottish literature
Catholicism’s profound influence on Scottish literature spans centuries, weaving a rich tapestry of themes, characters, and moral quandaries rooted in the faith’s teachings and traditions. From medieval ballads to modern novels, Catholic themes and figures have been a consistent presence, reflecting both the historical significance of the Church in Scotland and the personal faith of Scottish authors.
Tributes pour in for Fr Martin Chambers who died weeks before Bishop ordination
Father Martin Chambers, who was recently chosen by Pope Francis to become a Bishop, has passed away unexpectedly just weeks before his scheduled ordination in Dundee. Fr Martin – a priest from the Diocese of Galloway – died in his sleep last Tuesday. He was 59-years-old and was to celebrate his 60th birthday in June. His ordination was set for April 27, at St Andrew’s Cathedral – in the City of Discovery – where his role would have been official as the Bishop of Dunkeld.
Campaign to save Scotland's only Catholic boarding school raises £1.2m
A PERTHSHIRE boarding school might be saved from closure as its parents and supporters raised £1.2m 48 hours after news broke of its intended closure. Kilgraston School in Bridge of Earn, announced its decision citing loss of income due to Covid lockdowns. The headteacher Tanya Davie told parents that there was now a “real interest from investors” as a result of the fundraising campaign to save the 97-year-old school which launched on Friday, with an aim to hit £2m.
Tributes pour in for Fr Martin Chambers who died weeks before Bishop ordination
Father Martin Chambers, who was recently chosen by Pope Francis to become a Bishop, has passed away unexpectedly just weeks before his scheduled ordination in Dundee. Image: Diocese of Dunkeld. Fr Martin – a priest from the Diocese of Galloway – died in his sleep last Tuesday. He was 59-years-old and was to celebrate his 60th birthday in June. His ordination was set for April 27, at St Andrew’s Cathedral – in the City of Discovery – where his role would have been official as the Bishop of Dunkeld.
LOOKING LUSH: A first look into Scotland’s biggest Lush store
Scotland’s flagship Lush store opened its doors today, and this GlasgowStandard reporter was one of the first into the shop. Beauty enthusiasts have eagerly anticipated the opening of the flagship store on Glasgow’s bustling Buchanan Street. When the doors swung open this morning, bath aficionados swopped into to revel in three floors brimming with an array of bath bombs, bubble bars, and soaps.
Keir Starmer: Labour are vindicated with landslide by-election win
🌹Labour are celebrating today after a landslide victory which has vindicated the work Starmer's Scottish cohort, according to the leader.@ByronsBlether has more about @mgshanks by-election win ✍️ pic.twitter.com/Smdfc9UnAz — Glasgow Standard (@GlasgowStand) October 6, 2023 The morning after the night before, saw Keir Starmer in Burnside – still celebrating strongly, after the landslide victory for Michael Shanks (a local Modern Studies teacher and Labour’s second Labour MP in this parliament)...
Keir Starmer: Labour are vindicated with landslide by-election win
🌹Labour are celebrating today after a landslide victory which has vindicated the work Starmer's Scottish cohort, according to the leader.@ByronsBlether has more about @mgshanks by-election win ✍️ pic.twitter.com/Smdfc9UnAz — Glasgow Standard (@GlasgowStand) October 6, 2023 The morning after the night before, saw Keir Starmer in Burnside – still celebrating strongly, after the landslide victory for Michael Shanks (a local Modern Studies teacher and Labour’s second Labour MP in this parliament)...
MoD urged to 'get around the table' to bring an end to Beith munitions plant strike
Come August 21, 50 GMB Scotland members will walk out on strike for a fortnight, after four days of targeted action failed to secure a resolution. The factory in Beith, North Ayrshire, ships weapons to Ukraine, as well as supplying the UK armed forces. Katy Clark, regional MSP for West Scotland, has written to Defence Secretary Ben Wallace demanding that the MoD negotiate with the workers, citing the "vital work they do in supporting the Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion".
‘Latest feather in our cap’: Scotland praised after successful world cycling event
The organisations involved in running the event included Traffic Scotland, ScotRail, Police Scotland and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), and many more – with some of the key highlights for SPT being 132,606 journeys across the subway system in the first weekend. SPT chief executive Valerie Davidson said: "[The event has been a] tremendous success and SPT is delighted to have been able to support this fantastic event.
Historic Gaelic work brought back to life in National Library show
The laoidhean – which means sacred poems or hymns – formed a central tenet of Scottish life. The collaboration is between traditional Gaelic singer Mairi Macmillian, from South Uist; a camber ensemble called the Edinburgh Quarter; and a modern composer whose work stretches from classical to electronica, Ned Bingham. The musicians are "breathing fresh life" into the old songs and looking to bring them to the attention of a wider audience.
Asthma and heart disease treatments approved for use on NHS in Scotland
Three treatments have been accepted in the latest round of decisions from the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC). The SMC said they may be useful for patients whose disease is “not well managed with the currently available treatments”. Tezepelumab, provided under the brand name Tezspire, was accepted for treating severe asthma. It is used as an add-on treatment for patients with severe asthma that is not well controlled despite usual treatment.
‘The fear of stuttering is worse, than the stammer itself’
“HI my name is D-d-d-aniel…” someone would retort “Ha! You’ve forgotten your name?” Which is all too common. The first few times I took offence, but now it’s not even original nor an attempt at patter. Anyway, I (like 80 million people in the world, the commonly used number) have a stammer. I’ve always had it, ever since I can remember at least. It’s something that haunts me, not feeling in control – not being able to order at a restaurant coherently or a pint at a pub.
'Absentee MP' Nadine Dorries faces move to oust her from Parliament
The move is being spearheaded by Labour MP, and head of the Standard’s Committee, Chris Bryant – in proposals reported by the FT – he said he wanted to see the comeback of a rule from 1801 that stated “no member do presume to go out of town without leave of this House,” to try and force through a by-election.
Irn-Bru launch new energy drink for Scottish market
AG Barr said its Pwr-Bru drink will contain the “iconic Irn-Bru essence for a unique taste,” and like its counterparts such as Red Bull and Monster will contain caffeine, taurine and B-Vitamins. Those who want a taste before the official launch on August 28, can look for “scan the can” QR codes that have been placed around various cities in Scotland such as; Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and Perth.
Welsh Labour urged to follow Scotland in opposition to Tory anti-boycott bill
Brought forward by Michael Gove, The Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matter) Bill, is understood to form the cornerstone of the Tory government’s “culture war” tactic in the run-up to the election. The law would not allow public bodies to choose to boycott states over ethical issues. The Scottish Government’s statement raised concerns around the bill by comparing it to the UK Government’s behaviour around the apartheid in South Africa.
Vandals cause £20,000 of damage to homes under construction
Officers are looking for a suspect described as being aged in their “early teens” in relation to the breaking of nearly 30 windows of newly-built homes on Summerfield Avenue, Dundee, at around 7.30pm on Wednesday. The suspect was wearing a balaclava. Police constable Andrew Masterston said: “Nearly 30 windows were smashed at newly-built houses, along with damage caused to windows of four construction vehicles. “The estimated value of damage is £20,000.
Review: Heartstopper endearing and heartwarming series that captures queer culture
IN true Netflix fashion ‘Heartstopper’ – based on Alice Oseman’s young-adult novels – aesthetic is firmly placed in the 1980s. As a gay coming of age romcom, the first series struck a chord with its target audience teenagers – while also resonating with a more mature audience grappling with their emotions.
Nigel Farage says Coutts offers to reinstate his accounts amid de-banking row
Farage said the “fight goes on” as he outlined his desire for a face-to-face meeting with the bank’s bosses in a bid to understand how many other people have been affected by account closures. The former MEP said his bank account was unfairly shut down by Coutts, owned by NatWest Group, because it did not agree with his political views. NatWest has since announced an independent review, with lawyers probing the closure of Farage’s account and other instances of de-banking by Coutts.
Schools in Scotland have reported 88 sewage leaks since 2019, figures show
The freedom of information (FOI) data showed that 11 local authorities reported the sewage spills, including 26 leaks in South Lanarkshire, 15 in Renfrewshire, 14 in Stirling and 11 in the Highlands. Meanwhile, five each were reported in Aberdeen, Argyll and Bute and in West Lothian, three in East Ayrshire, two in the Borders and one each in Clackmannanshire and East Renfrewshire. Angus Council, the Western Isles, Perth and Kinross and Moray Council did not provide responses.
What is carbon capture and how does it work?
Apart from supporting thousands of jobs, developing new oil and gas in the UK will create fewer emissions than shipping it in from abroad, Rishi Sunak said. Because emissions produced from end users burning the fuel are only counted towards net zero if it is done in the UK, and with much of the fuel expected to sell internationally, the Government says new development is consistent with its target of becoming net zero by 2050.
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