THE DEMOCRAT

This report on driving improvement and building a stronger NHS sets out the progress in Scotland’s health and social care system during 2025 to 2026

Remember to register to vote Residents are being reminded to ensure they are registered to vote in the upcoming Scottish Parliament elections as the deadline

Campaigning for a new Health Centre in Dumbarton Town Centre – Dumbarton constituency Labour candidate Jackie Baillie with Cllrs David McBride and Gurpreet Singh. by

The Dumbarton Democrat wishes all its readers – the average number for the past 30 days around 20,000 – a Happy Easter By Bill Heaney

by Bill Heaney Reform UK are set to lose a total of 26 of its Scottish constituency candidates by polling day, the Scottish Liberal Democrats

Tory education spokesperson Miles Briggs and the SNP’s John Swinney. by Lucy Ashton The Scottish Conservatives have today announced plans to restore Scotland’s education system

Laughter, shared moments, and a simple Easter egg can go a long way This spring, Royal Navy Family & People Support (RN FPS) brought families

EASTER WEEKEND HOLY WEEK SERVICES St Patrick’s Parish, Dumbarton Thurs 2nd April – Maundy Thursday 9am – Morning Prayer 7pm – Mass of the Lord’s

Irish Literature Centenary of ‘The Plough and the Stars’ Bess Rowen writes: 11 February 2026 marked a century since protesters disrupted Sean O’Casey’s The Plough and the

by Lucy Ashton Liberal Democrat Scottish affairs spokesperson Susan Murray MP has today said that the party’s call for a 10p cut in fuel duty

Reform UK leader Lord Offord and Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie. by Bill Heaney Reform can only help the SNP cling on for another

It’s that time of year again for anyone who walks/runs/cycles in the Loch Lomondside, Glen Fruin and Kilpatrick hills. We are fully into lambing season,

Joani Reid, the Labour MP who has stepped down from the Commons. Joani Reid MP reportedly swapped flirtatious messages with a senior officer in charge

General Sir Gwyn Jenkins says the Royal Navy will not be war-ready until the end of the 2030s. by Democrat reporter The Faslane-based Royal Navy

BBC Breakfast had just come to an end, but before the programme wrapped, we heard some final comments from Carol Kirkwood. “This is a forecast

West Dunbartonshire and Argyll residents are reminded that GP practices in the local health board area and many pharmacies will be closed over the Easter

Flamingo Land has been seeking to build a holiday resort for several years. by Bill Heaney Lomond Banks, the developers seeking to build a £40m

ABOVE: Tracy Carragher is accused of downplaying allegations about her former colleague byLynsey Bews, Scotland political correspondent, Angus Cochrane, Senior political journalist, and David Wallace Lockhart, Scotland political correspondent BBC Scotland

by Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat education spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP has today said that the SNP have “broken promise after promise to teachers and

War in the Middle East Jet fuel supply disruption expected, Ryanair chief says Smoke billows from an oil warehouse in the Kani Qirzhala area on

  “Everything changed when we had to flee.” Dear Bill, Haiti’s children are running out of options. Hungry and surrounded by violence, many are being recruited

by Bill Heaney The Scottish Conservatives have pledged to abolish car parking charges for stays of up to two hours in a bid to revive

St Margaret of Scotland Hospice Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at the St Margaret of Scotland Hospice Jazz Lunch on Sunday, 7th June 2026.

There was a man who built a boat to sail away, and it sank – JP Donleavy, The Ginger Man by Democrat reporter The Scottish

Rev Dr John McPake, the Church of Scotland’s ecumenical officer,  and the Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator of the General Assembly, were in Canterbury last

It has been enjoyed by generations of families on day trips, school outings and Sunday school picnics. And so it will be again this weekend,

BY BILL HEANEY What will Loch Lomondside look like in the next 50 years? The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park people are asking the

Lomond School, Helensburgh, showcased a spectacular display of musical talent at their ‘Sunday at Seven’ concert. Led by Musical Director Doug Fleming, the evening celebrated

At least six people have been wounded after several sites in central Israel were struck by an Iranian missile attack by Katie Mellett in The

King and Queen will attend White House state dinner and the King will address Congress Jane Dalton in the Independent The King and Queen will

by Bill Heaney  Anas Sarwar will today announce plans to boost tax-free childcare for Scottish parents, putting more money back into family budgets and helping

by Bill Heaney A NEW TRAINING FACILITY EXTENSION, which will be used to train Royal Navy submariners operating the next generation of deterrent submarines, has

The remains were incorrectly labelled in the morgue at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, which takes patients from West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute. by

Denis Donaldson, a senior Sinn Féin official for many years, was shot dead in a remote cottage in southwest Donegal in April 2006 by Democrat

by Elizabeth McMeekin A large proportion of people living with diabetes may have undiagnosed heart failure, according to results from a recent trial.  The findings

Photo credit Robin Mitchell Govan Music Festival has wrapped up its fifth year of community-led artistic transformation, showcasing Glasgow’s diverse sounds and vibrant cultures. Music of

   Justice Minister Angela Constance, Labour spokesperson Pauline McNeill MSP, Conservative MSPs Annie Wells and Liam Kerr and Drugs Minister Maree Todd. by Lucy Ashton

Celtic originally denied liability but has now paid an out-of-court sum, according to Digby Brown Solicitors by Vidushi Tiwari STV News is reporting that a

Monsignor James Horan, the founder of Knock airport. What would Monsignor James Horan think of Knock airport today? By Tom Gillespie and Bill Heaney Priests

by Bill Heaney Solicitor General Ruth Charteris KC has paid tribute to a trailblazer of Scotland’s justice system. Ms Charteris revealed a plaque in honour

NHS Golden Jubilee Looking for a career in the NHS? We are hiring across a wide range of roles, from nursing and occupational therapy to

Vale of Leven Academy A huge congratulations to our musicians who performed at the WDC Spring Concert last night. It was a brilliant evening. Special

A Red Crescent Society worker steps through the ruins of an auto service centre targeted by US-Israeli strikes in Tehran, Iran.  by Sarah Burns in

‘Teenage me could not have imagined this’ says first female Archbishop of Canterbury The archbishop told the congregation that God gave hope “even when we

Above: The site of an Israeli strike that targeted an apartment in Beirut’s southern suburb of Jnah on Saturday.  Conor Pope in The Irish Times

by Louise Wilson in Holyrood magazine Artwork credit: Iain Green The politician formerly known as a lord wants you to know he’s just a wee

Archdiocese of Glasgow It is with sorrow that the death is announced of Fr Pat Currie, former Parish Priest of Immaculate Conception Maryhill and St

by Lucy Ashton A pilot scheme within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to help people into work has been hailed a success by everyone involved.

PICTURED ABOVE: First aid responders are seen at the site of an Israeli airstrike that targeted the southern Lebanese village of Kfar Roummane.  War in

by Bill Heaney Six uniformed police officers turned up in Church Street yesterday to a rally of community carers who were demonstrating outside West Dunbartonshire

by Lucy Ashton Over the coming weeks, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) will introduce opt‑out testing for blood borne viruses at its Glasgow Royal

Labour leader Anas Sarwar, right, says Reform UK Lord Offord’s list of election candidates are ‘a bunch of chancers’ by Bill Heaney Scotland will reject

Former first minister told MSPs to make friends across the political divide – and to remember they are there to serve people Nicola Sturgeon gave

Big Malky comes under fire for his rugby club dressing room behaviour … by Bill Heaney Most people knew Reform UK were going to make

by Bill Heaney The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital is home to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Endometriosis Centre, a specialist service supporting women living with

A public inquiry was ordered after a number of deaths and high levels of infection at the Queen Elizabeth University and Royal Children’s Hospitals. by

The Dumbarton Democrat We have the best coverage of local politics in West Dunbartonshire. Our newspaper is edited by Bill Heaney, who has a hat

The Faslane naval base is home to the UK’s fleet of nuclear submarines. by James Delaney BBC Scotland An Iranian man charged after allegedly trying

Outside of journalism, Frank Hurley’s passion was the countryside Obituary: Frank Hurley, journalist who meted out justice as The Judge By John McGurk Frank Hurley, newspaper

by Lucy Ashton Organisers of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games have announced the city’s OVO Hydro venue is to host an ‘unforgettable’ opening ceremony. The showpiece event

Chief Constable’s salary soars to a whopping £281k after another above-inflation pay rise. Jo Farrell has been urged to consider whether it’s ‘appropriate’ to accept

Trump says there have been ‘productive conversations’ about a ‘complete and total resolution’ to the conflict in the Middle East President Donald Trump speaks to

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland also warned that mental health services were coming under growing strain by Lucy Ashton Young prisoners at Polmont young

Everything from Bhangra beats and soaring symphonies to community choirs and foot-stomping folk is on display in Glasgow this week as the milestone fifth edition

Only 41 out of 192 hospitals responded to the Freedom of Information request Scottish health boards revealed the scale of the scandal in the hospitals

by Lucy Ashton The local health board, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, will now test newborn babies to see if they have Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Prime minister and Trump have agreed reopening Strait of Hormuz is ‘essential’ to stabilise global energy market Starmer denies suggestions UK is being targeted by

by Lucy Ashton Russell Findlay has warned voters not to hand the SNP a majority in May’s election because John Swinney is deadly serious about

Sophie Traynor campaigning for SNP for Dumbarton constituency The SNP candidate for Dumbarton, Helensburgh and Lomond is Sophie Traynor, a councillor in West Dunbartonshire. Sophie

Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire Our #MotorcycleSafetyCampaign has begun running until September 27th 2026. During the campaign our officers will be conducting patrols on

GLENARN GARDENS IN RHU OPENED ON SATURDAY  Visitors can wander through the vibrant, world-class, over 10-acre sheltered woodland gardens with a Himalayan atmosphere, famous for

Socialist Party Scotland Socialist Party Scotland are supporting the strikes at universities and colleges across Scotland. Pictured here is the Unite picket and strike rally

Vale of Leven Trust Here’s what we’ve got coming up this week! To book your place, visit http://www.valeofleventrust.com, call us on 01389 752 629 or

Loch Lomond Shores To Emergencies and Beyond returns to Loch Lomond Shores Last year’s event was a huge success, and we’re delighted that it’s back

by Bill Heaney The Scottish Conservatives head into May’s election on the right side of public opinion on all the key priorities, Russell Findlay will

By Lucy Ashton The NHS came close to collapse during the height of the pandemic but narrowly avoided it due to the efforts of healthcare

Live: Middle East War Statement from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards comes after the US threatened to target energy infrastructure An apartment building struck by an Iranian

by Amy Walker and Jack Fenwick, political reporter, BBC The foreign secretary has said the UK will continue to provide defensive support against “reckless Iranian threats” but insisted

by Bill Heaney Ryanair, owned by colurful, controversial millionaire racehorse owner Michael O’Leary,  has announced a £40m investment programme for Prestwick Airport which will create

A huge well done to the 21 volunteers who joined forces nearby Helensburgh Pier! Organised by the Community Council and Plastic Free crew, the team

by Bill Heaney A service provided by the Health Board, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC), that uses targeted brain surgery to help people with

 Labour education spokesperson Paul O’Kane and First Minister John Swinney. by Bill Heaney Scottish Labour has accused First Minister John Swinney of “sitting on his

Nigel Farage speaks at the Reform UK Scotland conference in Bishopton by Bill Heaney Nigel Farage was branded a threat to the Union after he

LATEST: SECURITY BREACH AT FASLANE Two people have been arrested after trying to enter the naval base in Scotland where Britain’s nuclear submarines are based.

 by Lucy Ashton Dumbarton, Helensburgh and Lomond MSP Jackie Baillie has accused the SNP of “risking women’s health” after new figures revealed waits of up

New Defence scheme to transform support for forces families with young children will be rolled out from September Defence Secretary John Healey pictured with a

Pictured above: An Israeli self-propelled howitzer artillery gun fires rounds towards southern Lebanon from a position in the upper Galilee in northern Israel near the

by Bill Heaney Solicitor General Ruth Charteris KC is urging professionals to share advice on safer sleeping for babies. This follows a review of deaths

by Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat Jamie Greene MSP has today said that Lord Malcolm Offord and Reform “should be nowhere near politics or power”,

by Bill Heaney NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has become Scotland’s first health board to be recognised for its work to address the causes of

by Lucy Ashton NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is celebrating the success of Glasgow-based student midwife Mira Waligóra, who has been named Student Midwife of

Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire On Saturday, 15th March, we joined the local community to observe the 85th anniversary of the Clydebank Blitz. Chief

LATEST: SECURITY BREACH AT FASLANE Two people have been arrested after trying to enter the naval base in Scotland where Britain’s nuclear submarines are based.

The long-delayed Baird Family Hospital, part of Aberdeen’s Foresterhill health campus, is due to open next year by Calum Watson, of BBC Scotland News Wall panels

by Lucy Ashton You might have noticed that some Easter eggs in local shops are a bit smaller and more expensive this year. This is

by Lucy Ashton The Scottish SPCA (SSPCA) confirmed that Milton Animal Home – formally designated Dunbartonshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre  – will close for good

Pupils from St Patrick’s Primary in Dumbarton got a close-up look at the site. by Lucy Ashton: PICTURES BY PEDRO A group of schoolchildren were

Last Chance to Join Our Walk to Remember, Register by lunchtime tomorrow Time is running out to be part of our Walk to Remember this

Vale of Leven Trust Catch us at the Alexandria Easter Eggstravaganza in Overton Car Park, Alexandria. We’re thrilled to be offering a FREE Dr Bike

Publisher of Irish Independent and Sunday Independent says ‘this should never have happened’ Peter Vandermeersch, former chief executive of Mediahuis Ireland, has been suspended by

by Bill Heaney Why does the Scottish Government continue to allow the United States to use Prestwick Airport to pursue the war against Iran in

by Bill Heaney Why was First Minister John Swinney told that suspects arrested on alleged embezzlement charges as part of Operation Branchform were not being

by Bill Heaney The long-running scandal of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus, which serves West Dunbartonshire and includes the Royal Children’s Hospital, continued in

First Minister John Sweeney and Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay. by Bill Heaney Death and taxes. That’s what the Scottish Parliament was taken up with

Dr Sandesh Gulhane (left) and First Minister John Swinney with Health Secretary Neil Gray. by Bill Heaney It’s not just the patients who are recovering

by Lucy Ashton  Dumbarton’s MSP Jackie Baillie has backed her party’s plans to tackle potholes with a £350 million fighting fund.  Scottish Labour’s Leader, Anas

by Claire Meadows The government has announced £12m funding for the local news industry in a bid to safeguard world-class local news coverage for millions.

The strikes could impact STV’s coverage of the upcoming Holyrood election on May 7. by Jamie McIvor,  Scotland news correspondent BBC Glasgow Broadcaster STV is

Sister Rita Dawson, of the St Margaret of Scotland Hospice in West Dunbartonshire, the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland and the Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator

Church of Scotland The Scottish Parliament has voted to reject the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill by 69 votes to 57. Rt

by Bill Heaney Members of the Scottish Parliament vote 69 to 57 against legalising assisted dying. One member abstained. The Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill

by AINE ALLARDYCE The University of Glasgow has released new research demonstrating the long‑term value of Humanities degrees at a time when these subjects face

Diocese of Argyll & the Isles SCIAF Sunday is this weekend. This Lent’s Wee Box Appeal will provide clean water in Ethiopia. When I visited

Then President says ‘we never needed your help’ in Strait of Hormuz President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Nato, claiming the alliance

Warm wishes for St Patrick’s Day from everyone at Clifden Arts Festival. Today is a time to celebrate our shared heritage, the depth and diversity

 by Bill Heaney The UK Labour government is providing over £4.5 million to help Scottish families struggling with soaring heating oil costs and has called

by Lucy Ashton Scotland’s economy urgently needs to be saved from the SNP following “dire” predictions for the country’s productivity growth in the coming years,

US President Donald Trump, Peter Mandelson and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. by Mark Paul in London for The Irish Times When Downing Street wants to seize

Cousins and locals recall her early talent and journey from talent shows to Hollywood acclaim Jessie Buckley’s uncle and godfather, Sean Buckley, his wife, Carol

Music A founder member of De Dannan, one of her best-known recordings was a version of Dougie MacLean’s Caledonia Singer Dolores Keane has died peacefully

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde wants to build a new adult bone marrow transplant unit at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and Royal Children’s Hospital by

Above: A number of US military planes have been seen at Prestwick Airport. by Democrat reporter First Minister John Swinney has said he would consider

Community groups: All you have to do is send us your ad (you must supply the artwork, pictures and words) and we’ll publish it FREE

West Dunbartonshire Community Foodshare This year we have a fantastic team of 14 doing The Glasgow Kiltwalk on Sunday 26th of April. Please show your

Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland Yesterday evening we visited the Central Gurdwara in Glasgow at the invitation of Ravinder Kaur

by Bill Heaney Tony Blair has criticised Keir Starmer for his lack of support for Donald Trump’s war on Iran, telling the Prime Minister: ‘We should have backed

by Bill Heaney Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar clashed with First Minister John Swinney yet again in the Scottish Parliament this week over patient deaths

In 2017, the Independent Care Review was established, following years of campaigning from the care community demanding change. On February 5 2020, it published its full

Angela Montgomery has spent 50 years dealing with what happened at the home by Jax Sinclair BBC Scotland Angela Montgomery was eight years old when

𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗪 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥 Come and join us at the Denny Ship Model Experimental Tank for a relaxed opportunity to explore some local shipyard heritage. Starting

St Margaret of Scotland Hospice A beautiful day out on International Women’s Day at the Gerard Burns Mother Glasgow exhibition in celebration of our very

Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland Our Gaelic weekend concluded in the impressive surroundings of Glasgow Cathedral for The Gathering of

On Friday, US military officials said it was likely that America was responsible for an attack on a girls’ school in Iran, which killed more

Scottish Liberal Democrat deputy leader Wendy Chamberlain by Lucy Ashton On International Women’s Day, Scottish Liberal Democrat deputy leader and former police officer Wendy Chamberlain

by Lucy Ashton Rhu and Shandon Parish Church has secured listed building consent from Argyll & Bute Council to begin vital repairs on its historic

A temporary Banking Hub has opened at the Civic Centre 38 East Clyde Street Helensburgh G84 7PG.It will be open 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday.  Counter

Taxi for Lord Mandelson Lord Peter Mandelson has been released from his bail conditions but remains under investigation, the Metropolitan Police have said. Lord Mandelson

Scottish Labour is writing to Scotland’s Catholic Bishops and Archbishops reaffirming Scottish Labour’s support for Catholic education following Malcolm Offord’s criticism of faith schools Full

Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney It was Tony Blair who launched his election campaign in 1997 with the song “Things Can Only Get Better”. Well,

The Apprenticeship Pathways Event was held at the Teaching and Learning Centre, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week by Lucy Ashton

Pictures by Jeff Holmes  by Democrat reporter Skerryvore will host a huge World Cup Warm Up in aid of Street Soccer Scotland, it has been announced, taking over Glasgow’s Barrowland

Birds fly as smoke rises in Tehran after an explosion as Israel and the United States launch strikes on Iran on Monday.  TEHRAN — Nowhere

By Bill Heaney Social housing rents and council tax will each be increased by by around 8 per cent for the new financial year following

* Late news: It was revealed last night that HMS Dragon will not leave for Cyprus for another week. Official. by Democrat reporter The UK

by Elizabeth McMeekin A new experimental treatment for children with a hard-to-treat form of epilepsy is safe and can reduce seizures dramatically, helping them lead

The BBC is reporting that MPs’ basic salary will rise by 5% to £98,599 a year from April, Westminster’s expenses watchdog has said. The Independent

by Bill Heaney Christian leaders have expressed deep concern about the future of historic churches across Scotland due to the abrupt closure of a crucial

Keith Duggan Washington Correspondent of the Irish Times Fears of a protracted and complex war deepened as missile strikes were exchanged by countries across the

  The Royal Hospital for Children  is proud to be among the first hospitals in Scotland to introduce the LolliTrollie, a vibrant mobile entertainment and

by Democrat reporter The now cash-strapped Alba Party spent £50,000 on flights for Alex Salmond and other senior figures in just two years, a party

Here is a list of all the CUTS being considered by West Dunbartonshire Council at their meeting at 4pm on Wednesday. Two Labour councillors resigned

US and Israel attacks on Iran necessary to stop ‘intolerable threat’ of nuclear weapons, says President Trump Kuwait air defences mistakenly shot down three US

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar says he firmly disagrees with his father’s tribute to the late supreme leader of Iran. Mohammad Sarwar, a former Labour

Three persons who have died at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital – Milly Main and her mother; Molly Cuddihy and Andrew Slorance with his wife

The prime minister had previously refused to give the US permission to use RAF bases in Cyprus but has relented because of the indiscriminate nature

At least 153 people including children have died after a reported strike hit a school in southern Iran, according to Iranian officials. Iran has blamed

Pope Leo XIV also urged his fellow clergymen to ‘use your brains more’ … by Democrat reporter Pope Leo XIV has urged Catholic priests to resist

West Dunbartonshire Council’s Greenspace team is helping to facilitate a major environmental initiative bringing together local authorities, community volunteer groups, schools and businesses across the

RESIGNATIONS– Labourcouncillors Care Steel and Fiona Hennerbry. by Bill Heaney Two Labour councillors resigned from the Labour administration at West Dunbartonshire Council last night. The

Montage of pictures from West Dunbartonshire Libraries includes Tom McKendrick, John MacLeod, Joan Baird, Des McNulty and the Rocks family, 15 of whom died in

Watch: ‘Working hard used to get you something’, says victorious Green Party candidate by Bill Heaney The Green Party has won the Gorton and Denton

by Lucy Ashton Anas Sarwar will today pledge to end the scandal of poor NHS workforce planning and make sure the people trained in Scotland

Drama is based on a book about a woman from the north-east of Scotland during the early 20th century Katie Palmer Senior TV Reporter for

by Bill Heaney Liam McArthur MSP, pictured right, has today welcomed confirmation from the Scottish Parliament’s business bureau that consideration of amendments on his Assisted

by Lucy Ashton People are being given the opportunity to learn more about a Church of Scotland school in the Holy Land and the vital

by Lucy Ashton The building at 26 Colquhoun Square Helensburgh, currently occupied by the Bank of Scotland, has been earmarked as the site for the

by Bill Heaney There is something ugly and unsettling in this afternoon’s announcement from Police Scotland that a dispersal zone will be introduced in Glasgow

Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney A “total meltdown in the social care system” was forecast today by Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie just after it was

Bishops’ Conference of Scotland What a moment of grace for the Church in Scotland. This Easter, almost 600 people across the country will be received

by Lucy Ashton   First Minister John Swinney has refused to rule out adopting changes that would add a further £1 billion to Scotland’s “bloated”

Kimberley Darroch, mother of patient Milly Main who died, pictured with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. by Bill Heaney Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar claimed

by Claire Meadows Calls to ban under-16s from social media must focus on solutions that genuinely reduce harm while remaining practical and workable, the Chief

Our Campaign is NOW LIVE! We’re thrilled to announce that our Crowdcube campaign is officially open to the public! You can now invest and become

Local farmers at Glen Fruin above Loch Lomond and Drymen Show. by Bill Heaney The Scottish LibDems will treat food security as a matter of

Pictured are (left to right) Alexis Jay, Jenny Gilruth, Angela Constance, Joani Reid, Fiona Goddard, Roz McCall, Lady Smith and Pauline McNeill. by Bill Heaney

First Minister John Swinney and Finance Secretary Shona Robison. The SNP’s Budget Bill has passed its final vote in the Scottish Parliament, setting out the Government’s

by Lucy Ashton Police Officers are appealing for information following a wilful fire in Dumbarton. Around 3.15pm on Tuesday, 24 February, 2026, we received a

by Bill Heaney Shipbuilding and Clydeside were synonymous for most of last century, but the industry is now a shadow of its former self. But

by Lucy Ashton The Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) Glasgow Neonatal Unit is the first in Scotland to launch a new digital support system to

by Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP has today warned that the government is in a state of confusion as he

Transplant marks the first birth in the UK using a womb from a deceased donor, with only two previous cases ever reported in Europe by

by Glenn Campbell, Scotland political editor and Angus Cochrane , Senior political journalist, BBC Scotland Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon accused her predecessor Alex Salmond of pursuing “a bit of

by Bill Heaney Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain’s wig may be on a shaky peg in the gown room of the Court of Session now it

by Democrat reporter NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is using its commitment to the real Living Wage and its status as an anchor organisation

by Bill Heaney Plans for Flamingoland, the controversial tourist development at Balloch on the banks of Loch Lomond, have been rejected by the Scottish Government. But, like a

Ex-Labour peer faces questioning over alleged leaks to Jeffrey Epstein while he was business secretary by David Maddox, Athena Stavrou & Nicole Wootton-Cane in the Independent The

Rhu & Shandon Parish Church grounds are looking truly magnificent this year, carpeted in vibrant crocuses and delicate snowdrops. Many of you have shared your

An Ceann Mor has now been removed entirely due to structural concerns by Democrat reporter A pyramid-shaped viewpoint at Inveruglas on Loch Lomond that was

The Health and Wellbeing Census was gathered in 2021 and 2022 from half of Scotland’s council areas The Mail on Sunday newspaper reported that the

Flamingo Land have been seeking to build a resort since 2018 A proposed resort on the shores of Loch Lomond featuring a waterpark and monorail

The Cashel Estate property features loch views An estate on Loch Lomond’s eastern shore which has been transformed from a bracken covered farm into a

Council tax increases will take effect from 1 April 2026 Households are set to face another year of big council tax increases as local authorities

BOOK REVIEW by BILL HEANEY You have to know where you came from in order to know where you are going, it is often said

by Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP is set to amend the Recall Bill on Tuesday afternoon after securing government backing for

NHSGGC and Public Health Scotland encourage smokers to ‘Quit Your Way’ A trio of people who quit smoking after a combined 120 years have backed

Jackie Baillie has written to the Scottish Government’s Independent Advisers on the Ministerial Code urging them to consider investigating a potential breach of the Ministerial

Fewer people are rolling up to Mass on Sundays. The evidence of this was there for all to see when I took my wife along

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park We have not one, but two exciting job opportunities to help develop our Landscape Connections nature restoration plans.

by Democrat reporter MSP Jackie Baillie has blasted “cynical” moves to delay a decision on the future of Helensburgh’s fire crews. Scottish Fire and Rescue

by Democrat reporter Bishop Brian is SCIAF’s Bishop President and cares deeply about poverty and injustice around the world. He said “What can be more

We have carried out a Dementia Friendly Environment Assessment in Ward 4 West. The assessment brought together different perspectives, including lived experience, Alzheimer Scotland, and

Pictured above: Kenny MacAskill speaking during an ALBA Special National Assembly meeting.  by Democrat reporter ALBA Party leader Kenny MacAskill has contacted all members to

Rhu Bay The Rosslea Hall Hotel in Rhu has confirmed that “our hot food offering has been temporarily paused” a move they describe as necessary

Happy Retirement Georgina After an incredible 47 years in the Early Years sector, Georgina is retiring. Georgina started her early years career at the age

Argyll and Bute Council  ‘Services could be lost. Local jobs could be lost. That’s the harsh reality. Setting the council budget must be about matching

by Bill Heaney Every household in the country would get a rebate worth hundreds of pounds under Scottish Conservative plans to turn the government’s annual

by Democrat reporter At their spring conference, Scottish Liberal Democrats have passed a motion calling for a major boost to Scotland’s gaming industry, including proposals

St Margaret of Scotland Hospice £50,000 a Week – The Cost of Compassionate Care at St Margaret of Scotland Hospice At St Margaret of Scotland

Andrea Egan Unison General Secretary Elect “Working‑class people have always been organisers, fighters and leaders,” said new UNISON general secretary Andrea Egan. An inspiring women’s

We provide FREE rides in the fresh air in our unique trishaws to allow older people and  those of all ages with limited mobility to

A range of priority projects in Argyll and Bute coastal communities are set to benefit new Crown Estate funding. The Scottish Government confirmed in November

ScotRail ScotRail is introducing a £10 minimum fare (exceptions apply) for customers who board one of our services without buying a ticket before they travel.

Argyll and Bute Council A World first for Argyll and Bute Congratulations to Cardross Primary School, now the first primary school in the world to

West Dunbartonshire Libraries Come and join us at Dalmuir Library as we get creative and celebrate #InternationalWomensDay with DIY Zine making and canvas portrait painting.

Helensburgh Book Festival Meet two of Scotland’s brightest young crime writers, Foday Mannah and Callum McSorley, on Saturday 28th March at 4pm at the Helensburgh

West Dunbartonshire Council  A82 westbound overnight closure The A82 westbound between Dunglass Roundabout and Dumbuck junction will be closed from 8pm on Sun 22 Feb

West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau We are here for everyone in West Dunbartonshire. Our freephone number is covered by our small pool of qualified advisors

Craighelen Lawn Tennis & Squash Club Junior Tennis at Craighelen Tennis Club Looking for a fun and active activity for your child? Our sessions focus

Helensburgh Community Council The future of the Annexe ground at Hermitage Primary remains uncertain, currently it sits on the sites for disposal list. Helensburgh Community

Dumbarton and the Vale Camera Club James Duncan  Ben Ime – the highest mountain in the Arrochar Alps at 1,011m and a Munro, also known

Scotland will play at their first World Cup since 1998 Council officials have recommended that there should be no additional bank holiday in Argyll and

Don’t believe all you read in the newspapers. Some of us journalists don’t even believe what we write in them. That is not so remarkable

by Bill Heaney MSP Jackie Baillie has pledged that a Scottish Labour government will tackle rising violence on Scotland’s streets by getting tough on the

Officers are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 64-year-old man hill walking in the Fort William area of the Highlands. Brian

by Democrat reporter Pesident Donald Trump has said the US administration will impose an immediate 10 per cent global tariff, “over and above normal tariffs

First Minister John Swinney, Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain and Conservative leader Russell Findlay. Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney On 19 January, John Swinney received a

by Charlotte Morris A major new research report, Multilingualism and New Scots Refugee Integration, combining findings from two expert roundtables and contributions from leading scholars, educators,

No trace of Mary Duncan has been found since she vanished from her home in Bonhill 50 years ago. The police have searched endlessly for

Vale of Leven History Lynn Watson sent us this picture of the Balloch Juveniles. Her dad, John Mullen, is the goalkeeper. From around the late

West Dunbartonshire Council  Levengrove Park Community Art Exhibition This Community Art Exhibition is to give those artists within the community an opportunity to display their

by Democrat reporter The business was once described as “a licence to print money” but this week it is being reported that Scottish broadcaster STV

The story of Govan’s shipbuilding heritage and celebrations of Glasgow’s modern-day multiculturalism are among the focuses for this year’s Govan Music Festival, as the 2026 programme

The appointment comes after allegations Dame Antonia was previously spoken to about her management style by Democrat reporter Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Dame Antonia Romeo as Britain’s

Cara was one of 28 former patients who spoke to the BBC Disclosure documentary. by Jax Sinclair of BBC Scotland A report into the  children’s

England N. Ireland Scotland Alba Wales Cymru Local News My News BBC News Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.  It comes

by LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER Glasgow City Council has been considering an application to create a 940-person capacity premises on empty land on the corner of

Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain and Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay. by Bill Heaney Russell Findlay has today called on the Lord Advocate to consider her

by Elizabeth McMeekin Researchers have found more evidence that microplastics are impacting freshwater wildlife in different countries around the world. A new study, led by

The SSPCA says 90 grey seal pups have been admitted to its national wildlife rescue centre iin the space of five months by Democrat reporter

Liam McArthur says assisted dying should be available for people who are sound of mind but are living with a terminal illness by Democrat reporter

and Politics Scotland Business Edinburgh, Fife & East Glasgow & West Highlands & Islands NE, Orkney & Shetland South Tayside & Central Alba Duvall played

by Bill Heaney Frontline police officers should have access to guns which are securely stored in their vehicles, according to the Scottish Police Federation (SPF).

  by Bill Heaney Skinflint Rangers have been ordered to pay former star Alex Rae more than £12,000 after he claimed he was unfairly sacked

Peter Murrell ‘sent Amazon fraud parcels to Nicola Sturgeon’s sister and parents during £81k splurge’ Chris Musson , Associate Editor (Politics)| Craig Robertson PETER Murrell sent

St Margaret of Scotland Hospice chief executive Sister Rita Dawson welcomes the late Queen Elizabeth to the hospice at East Barns Street in Clydebank. by

by Democrat reporter Motorcyclists in West Dunbartonshire  are once again being offered the opportunity to enhance their riding skills and road safety knowledge as part

By Bill Heaney Prime Minister Keir Starmer has abandoned plans to postpone local elections for councils in May in yet another U-turn for the government. The elections

Church of Scotland A group of elders who have served the Kirk for 500 years between them have been recognised in the Scottish Parliament. Cross-party

  by Bill Heaney First Minister John Swinney has often boasted about running a ‘transparent’ administration – even though he has personally blocked the release

GlasGael , Glasgow’s brand new Irish Festival is coming to Glasgow Green, on Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May 2026!! A massive celebration of Irish

Queen Elizabeth University Hospital opened in 2015 and above the Royal Hospital for Children. by Democrat reporter The health board at the centre of the

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Neil Gray MSP, has confirmed that Susan Douglas‑Scott CBE will continue as Chair of NHS Golden Jubilee

Public toilets across Argyll and Bute could be closed or taken out of council hands A proposal to save money by ending council involvement in

Bishop Richard Moth during his installation Mass as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster by Zahra Fatima The newly appointed leader of Catholics in England and

Rando Bertoia – the last survivor of the Arandora Star sinking – died in 2013 by Giancarlo Rinaldi Plans for a memorial day in Italy

Peter Murrell in the Scottish Parliament in 2020  The former chief executive of the SNP Peter Murrell is accused of embezzling £460,000 from the SNP over 13

Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney The Health and Social Care Partnership is not answerable to West Dunbartonshire Council and could legally push forward with their

by Bill Heaney Clydebank’s Titan Crane is facing an uncertain future due – it is most probably destined for demolition – to the high cost

Sir Chris Wormald was appointed as cabinet secretary just over a year ago by Democrat reporter Sir Chris Wormald has been forced out as the

Pam Duncan-Glancy pictured with Sean Morton in 2015, two years before his initial conviction. by Democrat reporter MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy has defended her friendship with

Reach has announced plans to close its Saltire printing facility in Glasgow in the spring Newspaper publisher Reach has announced plans to close its printing

by Democrat reporter Scottish Liberal Democrat economy and finance spokesperson Jamie Greene MSP, right, has today announced that after securing £300 million in funding for

Do you litter? Someone you know must…… Millions admit to littering in research published ahead of #SpringCleanScotland – the nation’s biggest mass litter pick Half

by Democrat reporter Children’s Mental Health Week runs from Feb 9-15 this year. This year’s theme of ‘This is My Place’ aims to spread the

by Áine Allardyce Three Worlds for Forest, the acclaimed verbatim play exploring the uncertainties facing UK forests in a time of climate change, has launched

‘It’s OK to Ask’ questions about your healthcare NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is encouraging people to feel confident asking questions at their medical appointments,

by Elizabeth McMeekin An international team of researchers, led by the University of Glasgow in collaboration with Dhulikhel Hospital, Nepal, is investigating whether reverting to

by Bill Heaney Who cares for the carers? We’ll see this afternoon when a demonstration against a “redesign” of their service to West Dunbartonshire’s elderly

Standards Commission’s brutal clampdown on free speech … by Nick Kempe Yesterday I went to the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority (LLTNPA) headquarters

Doyle, a former Downing Street Director of Communications under Sir Keir Starmer, was made a life peer last month. by Bill Heaney Sir Keir Starmer’s

by Democrat reporter Labour leader Anas Sarwar and Health Secretary Neil Gray. by Democrat reporter Scotland’s Health Secretary has been urged to “come clean” over

Heller Gonzalez Pena I also jumped on the trend of asking ChatGPT to create a caricature of me and my work based on everything it

Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire Chief Superintendent Gary I’Anson welcomed Chief Inspector Lynn Edwards to L Division. Chief inspector Edwards has joined the senior

First Minister John Swinney, Conservative MSP Pam Gosal and Finance MInister Shona Robison. by Bill Heaney West Dunbartonshire faces an ever-increasing number of incidents of

by Bill Heaney The mortality rate of salmon being farmed off the West Coast will be investigated by cabinet secretary Mairi Gougeon, pictured right, she

by Dermocrat reporter A local man who subjected his partner to years of abuse has been banned from contacting her for three years. Iain MacPhee

Helensburgh Leisure Centre closed last year as a result of extensive roof damage by Andrew Galloway A leisure centre damaged during Storm Éowyn more than

Church of Scotland A theatre group who have battled wind, snow and Covid to perform an annual Passion Play are set to celebrate 10 years

by Bill Heaney Warnings that a significant proportion of the medical workforce – and that includes carers – is experiencing stress, anxiety and burnout have

Brunton Miller Solicitors closed suddenly in November The Law Society has confirmed it retains a large number of files following the sudden closure of a

by Democrat reporter February is LGBT+ History Month, and Equality Network and Scottish Trans are encouraging LGBTQIA+ people and their friends, families and allies to

by Bill Heaney The Scottish Conservatives have today written to the SNP justice secretary demanding that she dismiss a “crackpot” recommendation for a presumption against

The broadcaster’s fee will rise by £5.50 from 1 April The TV licence fee is to rise by £5.50 from £174.50 to £180 from 1 April, the

by Democrat reporter Danone has recalled several batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate baby formula because of the possible presence of a toxin linked to the poisoning

Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney What is it about old folk that West Dunbartonshire Council just don’t like? Why do they seem intent on making

Professor McQueen previously said she did not recall making the comment. by Angus Cochrane Senior political journalist BBC Scotland News An alleged comment made by

First Minister John Swinney and Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay clashed at Holyrood. by Bill Heaney All froth and no beer. That’s how Conservative leader

by Democrat reporter MSP Jackie Baillie has backed her party’s plans to implement a mobile phone ban in classrooms, if Scottish Labour comes to power

Conservative spokesman Liam Kerr and Justice Secretary Angela Constance. by Democrat reporter SNP justice secretary Angela Constance must confirm she will urgently publish details of

by Democrat reporter With just a few months now before exam time, secondary students will be hitting the books to make sure they move onto

by Gillian Morrison NHS 24’s Breathing Space service has marked a major milestone with the unveiling of its 100th Breathing Space bench, installed in collaboration

by Democrat reporter A private school attended by children from wealthy Catholic families has announced it will close at the end of the school term,

An incredible impact for an entire school Dear Bill, Could 2026 be the year you change the future for an entire school? My name is Claire,

by Democrat reporter The supposedly “super hospital” which takes adult patients and sick children from West Dunbartonshire  is STILL unsafe despite the SNP Government’s repeated

By Bill Heaney Three NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde staff members and one nursing team have been named as finalists in the nationally recognised RCN

Disappointed members of the cast of TV soap opera River City. by Lucy Ashton End of the road for fictional Glasgow neighbourhood Shieldinch as the

Mandelson to step down after ‘shocking’ email allegations Peer faces police scrutiny after Keir Starmer orders officials to draw up legislation to kick him out

by Bill Heaney MSP Jackie Baillie has blasted the Scottish Government for failing to reveal when a decision on the controversial Flamingo Land development is

Helensburgh Community Hub Huge thank you to Minuteman Press Helensburgh and Lomond for our lovely Helensburgh Book Festival programme.  Get yours from the Book Nook

St Margaret of Scotland Hospice — Major Contribution to Our Building Appeal Our heartfelt thanks to our long standing friend and supporter, The W M

Dumbarton Notebook by Bill Heaney West Dunbartonshire’s crackpot council is facing industrial action over their plans to introduce a new work schedule for care workers.

Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow Join us for an early International Women’s Day Celebration on Monday 2 March 2026. We’ll share a

Women United Against State Pension Injustice Take note, Pat McFadden over 50,000 people have spoken. We are organised, documented, and determined. We are halfway there.

Taste of Home – Catering by Roo Picture this!  You book us to cater your private dinner party for your special event We turn up

St Vincent’s Hospice Your compassion. Their peace. A role that truly makes a difference.  “The hospice gave Jane peace – and gave me memories I

by Democrat reporter First Minister, John Swinney, has officially opened Luss Distillery, the new multi-million-pound distillery and visitor experience by Loch Lomond Group, located in

Drop-off charges will increase on Tuesday by Bill Heaney Holiday costs are about to rise for West Dunbartonshire people as Scottish airports are raising their

Chief Constable of Police Scotland Jo Farrell. There are calls for Audit Scotland to launch an inquiry into the taxpayer-funded payout of more than £134,000

On BBC News tonight there is a report by Steve Rosenberg that Russia has become the most hostile place in the world to be a

China has agreed to halve its import tariffs on Scotch whisky, offering export gains for UK distillers. At home, however, a new rise in excise

Susan Dick runs a not for profit pony therapy business at Bowling. by Jonathan Geddes, of BBC Scotland A local woman was left stunned when

by Jamie Whitehead Lord Mandelson says he has resigned his membership of the Labour Party as he does not want to “cause further embarrassment” by

Celtic Connections has celebrated a stunning festival packed with live performances, record-breaking ticket sales and unique events, sending a message of hope and unity around the

by Bill Heaney The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland has warned that workforce wellbeing in Scotland’s NHS is at a crisis point. Scottish

Half of us are dubious about the afterlife, but most want church funeral with all the trimmings when we die Something in the Irish psyche

Professor  Caroline Hiscox (left) is the chief executive of NHS Lothian while Professor Jann Gardner (right) has the same role at NHS Greater Glasgow and

Molly Cuddihy died last year, aged 23, seven years after she had a hospital-acquired infection which her family say had long-term impacts on her health

by Bill Heaney More than 3,500 drink and drug driving tests were carried out by Police Scotland officers during the festive enforcement campaign. In West

Police said the officers were injured before Thursday’s match between Celtic and Utrecht BBC Scotland is reporting that four police officers were injured after missiles

by Bill Heaney Former Scotland, Nottingham Forest and Derby County winger John Robertson has been honoured by family, friends and former team mates at his

Reform making big impact in the polls for Holyrood elections Malcolm Offord and Nigel Farage. by Democrat reporter Reform UK has a five-point lead over

by Democrat reporter Junior Rate Submariners from HMS Ambush supported the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) through a dedicated volunteer

Health Secretary Neil Gray, Pam Gosal MSP and Jackie Baillie MSP. by Bill Heaney Health boards must ensure that all their facilities comply with relevant

Labour work and pensions secretary Pat McFadden apologised that women born in the 1950s were not sent individual letters about their state pension changes earlier,

by Bill Heaney The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital  and Royal Hospital for Children campus which replaced Yorkhill Hospital and serves West Dunbartonshire and Argyll  was

by Bill Heaney Anas Sarwar claimed today (Thursday) that he has found “damning evidence” that political pressure was applied to open super-hospital on time. Meeting

by Democrat reporter It’s more expensive for a person to stay the night in hospital or care home than it is to keep them overnight

by Bill Heaney John Swinney has been urged to rein in the SNP’s “unfair, unaffordable and unsustainable” benefits bill to deliver a tax cut to

by Democrat reporter Last year’s Tiree Music Festival contributed £1.6m to the Hebridean island’s economy, according to a new report. The event’s organisers said it

by Elizabeth McMeekin The University of Glasgow is to lead a new project which aims to improve fish welfare in the global ornamental fish trade,

Scotland’s councils risk becoming financially unsustainable Whilst councils have made significant savings, the cost of delivering services is rising faster than available funding. This risks