EMEREGENCY talks were taking place as we went to press yesterday (Thursday) to find a solution to a funding crisis which jeopardises the future of the Bradbury Centre in Bonar Bridge.

An Aberdeen sheriff has demanded answers after a criminal carried out just two-and-half hours of a 280-hour community service order.

A Ross-shire care home is at the centre of a police investigation following the death of an elderly resident. Police confirmed yesterday that inquiries are ongoing at Wyvis House care home, in Station Road, Dingwall.

A SERVICE that provides vital support to West Dunbartonshire cancer patients has helped around 800 people since its launch.

NORTH Lanarkshire Council in partnership with carers, local carer organisations and NHS Lanarkshire, has published a new Strategy for Carers in North Lanarkshire.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Fiona Hyslop, today announced that she would more than double the number of Modern Apprenticeships in Health and Social Care by opening them to all ages of applicants.   

A funding crisis may result in a reduction in the number of people able to attend the Bradbury Centre at Bonar Bridge. A last-ditch attempt to maintain the service will take place at Golspie tomorrow but the centre may have to close if it becomes unviable.

A Fife initative that aims to improve the outcome for vulnerable children and young people has been praised by councillors.The Springfield Project was set up in September 2006 and is run in partnership by Fife Council Social Work Service and NHS Fife.

SIX members of Scotland’s biggest paedophile ring were yesterday jailed for periods of up to 17 years. Some of the men appeared stunned by the length of the sentences – totalling 43 years and ten months.

A LEADING Dundee campaigner against the abuse of children last night said she believed the true scale of paedophilia in Scotland was being greatly underestimated.