This week on The News You May Have Missed, we celebrate the return of red squirrels to Aberdeen, shine a light on Scotland’s thriving Asian restaurant scene, hear how a childhood rail enthusiast achieved his dream of becoming a train driver, welcome the hatching of rare dove chicks, and enjoy a heartwarming family reunion in Italy sparked by a simple holiday booking.
“Through 15 years of monitoring and conservation work, the partnership project has now removed almost all of the invasive greys” — Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels. A remarkable testament to long-term dedication.
Aberdeen becomes first UK city to welcome back red squirrels
A rare and inspiring win for wildlife conservation and urban biodiversity.
For the first time in over fifty years, red squirrels are reclaiming the streets and gardens of Aberdeen after a successful 15-year conservation effort to remove grey squirrels. The return has been confirmed by sightings near central feeder boxes and suggests the city may soon be grey-squirrel-free.
Scotland’s Asian restaurants shine with top awards shortlist
Recognises cultural diversity and resilience in the hospitality industry.
Ten Scottish establishments have been named finalists in the prestigious Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards, celebrated for cuisine ranging from fusion to street food. Notable nominees include Sòlas Kitchen (Newcomer of the Year), Yakitori House, Masala Twist, Sidhu’s and others.
Dream realised: boy qualifies as a train driver
It highlights the value of childhood dreams and the inspiration they can offer when turned into reality.
A young rail enthusiast who had spent his childhood sketching locomotives and visiting stations has now qualified as a professional train driver. After years of training and determination, his story has been celebrated online as proof that passion and perseverance can lead to dream careers.
Conservation success: rare dove chicks hatch
A small but important step in reversing biodiversity loss and protecting fragile species.
Zoo experts have announced the hatching of eight rare dove chicks, a significant boost for a species struggling with declining numbers in the wild. The chicks are being carefully nurtured by keepers, and conservationists hope they will strengthen the global breeding programme.
A serendipitous reunion in Italy
A chance booking turned into a touching rediscovery of family heritage and community ties.
A young woman booking an Airbnb holiday home in Italy found herself in the house where her father grew up as a child. The remarkable coincidence led to a family reunion, complete with neighbours and relatives who remembered her father from decades earlier.