Scotland's 'sphinx' is an ancient and persistent snow patch in the UK region's third highest mountain. It renowned for never melting apart from three rare occasions in the 20th century but this year, It is about to do just that for the fourth consecutive year. Watch in for more details!

Scotland's 'Sphinx' snow patch melts away: Climate change threatens a grand vestige of the ice age

Scotland's 'sphinx' is an ancient and persistent snow patch in the UK region's third highest mountain. It renowned for never melting apart from three rare occasions in the 20th century but this year, It is about to do just that for the fourth consecutive year.

Scotland's 'sphinx' snow patch is vanishing

There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist.

According to the Scottish folklore which dates back to the 19th century, the creature inhabits Loch Ness which is a large freshwater in the Scottish Highlands.

With an aim to find if this folklore had any truth, a team of experts set out on a mission to Loch Ness and discovered that actually there might be “mini-monsters” and not bigger creatures lurking in the loch.

<h2>How scientists found&nbsp;'mini-monsters'&nbsp;in Loch Ness?</h2>

The new study was carried out by experts from the University of Aberdeen who dropped a holographic camera into the loch, something which was never done before.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-deep-seas-on-earth-hiding-alien-life-amid-dark-oxygen-study-hints-so-753986">Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so</a>

The device used is called a weeHoloCam which has the potential to capture digital holographic images in which microscopic organisms can be seen and the images can be later produced using artificial intelligence.

<h2>What are new ‘mini-monsters’ found in Scotland's waters?</h2>

The "mini-monsters" are magnified plankton particles, which can help understand the make-up of the loch.

Speaking about the discovery, Dr Thangavel Thevar from the University of Aberdeen’s School of Engineering said, “This was a unique opportunity for us to deploy the weeHoloCam in fresh water, as it has previously only been used in the ocean."&nbsp;

“We were curious as to what the water quality would be like, especially at lower depths, as we know that too much peat could obstruct the recording path of the instrument. But we lowered the camera to around 200 metres [656 feet] and were able to see lots of interesting particles which, by working with biologists, should be able to give us more information about the biodiversity of Loch Ness," he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Stranded Pink Dolphin rescued in Bolivia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/stranded-pink-dolphin-rescued-in-bolivia-751889/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Mini-monsters” are not what the conspiracy theorists were finding and hence the hunt for&nbsp;the Loch Ness monster&nbsp;is still on.

NASA was also recently asked to give attention to the Scottish Highlands and help the experts in finding the mythical monster.

The Loch Ness Monster has been sighted more than 1,156 times, as per the official sightings registered.

(With inputs from agencies)

There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist.

There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist. According to the Scottish folklore which dates back to the 19th century, the creature inhabits Loch Ness which is a large freshwater in the Scottish Highlands. With an aim to find if this folklore had any truth, a team of experts set out on a mission to Loch Ness and discovered that actually there might be “mini-monsters” and not bigger creatures lurking in the loch. How scientists found 'mini-monsters' in Loch Ness? The new study was carried out by experts from the University of Aberdeen who dropped a holographic camera into the loch, something which was never done before. Also Read: Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so The device used is called a weeHoloCam which has the potential to capture digital holographic images in which microscopic organisms can be seen and the images can be later produced using artificial intelligence. What are new ‘mini-monsters’ found in Scotland's waters? The "mini-monsters" are magnified plankton particles, which can help understand the make-up of the loch. Speaking about the discovery, Dr Thangavel Thevar from the University of Aberdeen’s School of Engineering said, “This was a unique opportunity for us to deploy the weeHoloCam in fresh water, as it has previously only been used in the ocean." “We were curious as to what the water quality would be like, especially at lower depths, as we know that too much peat could obstruct the recording path of the instrument. But we lowered the camera to around 200 metres [656 feet] and were able to see lots of interesting particles which, by working with biologists, should be able to give us more information about the biodiversity of Loch Ness," he added. Watch: Stranded Pink Dolphin rescued in Bolivia “Mini-monsters” are not what the conspiracy theorists were finding and hence the hunt for the Loch Ness monster is still on. NASA was also recently asked to give attention to the Scottish Highlands and help the experts in finding the mythical monster. The Loch Ness Monster has been sighted more than 1,156 times, as per the official sightings registered. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mini-monsters' spotted in Scotland's rivers hint at existence of mythical 'Loch Ness monster'

In a stunning discovery, UCL (University College London) researchers have found that Ireland and Scotland are hosting a rock formation which may be carrying the rare and complete record of "snowball Earth".&nbsp;

The research, which was published&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Journal of the Geological Society of London, discovered that the Port Askaig Formation is filled with layers of rock which are up to 1.1km thick and were probably deposited between 662 to 720 million years ago when the Sturtian glaciation occurred.&nbsp;

This was the first time the world had frozen and led to the development of complex and&nbsp;multicellular organisms.

In this rock formation, an exposed outcrop on Scottish islands, which was known as the Garvellachs, was unique because it shows how there was the transition of warm and tropical Earth into "snowball Earth".

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Some other rocks which were formed at a similar time in North America and Namibia have been missing this transition.

<h2>Here's how Earth sustained life in deep freeze</h2>

UCL Earth Sciences senior author Professor Graham Shields said, "These rocks record a time when Earth was covered in ice. All complex, multicellular life, such as animals, arose out of this deep freeze, with the first evidence in the&nbsp;fossil record&nbsp;appearing shortly after the planet thawed."

UCL Earth Sciences PhD candidate and first author Elias Rugen said, "Our study provides the first conclusive age constraints for these Scottish and Irish rocks, confirming their global significance."

Watch:&nbsp;Astronaut records Moon setting behind Earth amid auroras

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"The layers of rock exposed on the Garvellachs are globally unique. Underneath the rocks laid down during the unimaginable cold of the Sturtian glaciation are 70 meters of older carbonate rocks formed in tropical waters. These layers record a tropical marine environment with flourishing cyanobacterial life that gradually became cooler, marking the end of a billion years or so of a temperate climate on Earth," he added.

"Most areas of the world are missing this remarkable transition because the ancient glaciers scraped and eroded away the rocks underneath, but in Scotland, by some miracle, the transition can be seen," Rugen said.

The Sturtian glaciation period lasted for 60 million years on Earth and was one of the two major freezing periods in the Cryogenian Period (between 635 and 720 million years ago).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a stunning discovery, UCL (University College London) researchers have found that Ireland and Scotland are hosting a rock formation which may be carrying the rare and complete record of "snowball Earth".

In a stunning discovery, UCL (University College London) researchers have found that Ireland and Scotland are hosting a rock formation which may be carrying the rare and complete record of "snowball Earth". The research, which was published in the Journal of the Geological Society of London, discovered that the Port Askaig Formation is filled with layers of rock which are up to 1.1km thick and were probably deposited between 662 to 720 million years ago when the Sturtian glaciation occurred. This was the first time the world had frozen and led to the development of complex and multicellular organisms. In this rock formation, an exposed outcrop on Scottish islands, which was known as the Garvellachs, was unique because it shows how there was the transition of warm and tropical Earth into "snowball Earth". Also Read: ESA's JUICE mission is set to attempt first-ever Lunar-Earth flyby. Here's how it will impact planet Some other rocks which were formed at a similar time in North America and Namibia have been missing this transition. Here's how Earth sustained life in deep freeze UCL Earth Sciences senior author Professor Graham Shields said, "These rocks record a time when Earth was covered in ice. All complex, multicellular life, such as animals, arose out of this deep freeze, with the first evidence in the fossil record appearing shortly after the planet thawed." UCL Earth Sciences PhD candidate and first author Elias Rugen said, "Our study provides the first conclusive age constraints for these Scottish and Irish rocks, confirming their global significance." Watch: Astronaut records Moon setting behind Earth amid auroras "The layers of rock exposed on the Garvellachs are globally unique. Underneath the rocks laid down during the unimaginable cold of the Sturtian glaciation are 70 meters of older carbonate rocks formed in tropical waters. These layers record a tropical marine environment with flourishing cyanobacterial life that gradually became cooler, marking the end of a billion years or so of a temperate climate on Earth," he added. "Most areas of the world are missing this remarkable transition because the ancient glaciers scraped and eroded away the rocks underneath, but in Scotland, by some miracle, the transition can be seen," Rugen said. The Sturtian glaciation period lasted for 60 million years on Earth and was one of the two major freezing periods in the Cryogenian Period (between 635 and 720 million years ago). (With inputs from agencies)

Ireland and Scotland STILL have rocks which carry rare evidence of 'snowball Earth'

A team of researchers in Scotland is hoping to revolutionize data security by developing a “potentially unhackable” national quantum network. Watch in for more details!

Scotland develops 'near unhackable' Quantum network to boost UK cybersecurity

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday. His followers are called the Mahdi [Messiah] Servants Union.&nbsp;

The mile-long island has been uninhabited for 85 years and is located in the Slate Isles. Last year, Savills advertised it for £1.5 million. It is accessible only by sea using a private boat from the neighbouring island of Luing, which is reached via a ferry from the island of Seil.&nbsp;

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Reports have said that the Muslim scholar, who already runs military-style training camps, has raised more than £3 million to buy a small Scottish island and allow Muslims "from all over the world" to get a visa and live in their new "homeland".&nbsp;

As quoted by local reports, al-Habib said in a video: "If you want to live free under the banner of the imam [Shia leader], in a special homeland where you feel everything in it reminds you of the awaited mahdi, everything is the Shia homeland…support this project."&nbsp;

Another man, who's filming from Torsa, can be heard saying in the same video: "Here, my brothers, God willing, we want to build a large mosque, a school and a hawza [Shia seminary]. We want this place to be a homeland to the Shias and the believers."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-praises-brave-and-beautiful-female-agent-amid-sexist-criticism-after-assassination-bid-745022">Trump praises ‘brave and beautiful’ female agent amid sexist criticism after assassination bid</a>&nbsp;

The extremist academic fled Kuwait and claimed asylum in the United Kingdom around 20 years ago. Fulmer, a little village in South Buckinghamshire, is home to his "global headquarters".&nbsp;

Al-Habib, known as the "Mullah of Fulmer," is charged with inciting sectarian hatred in the UK and in the Arab world between Shias and rival Sunni Muslims.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that al-Habib has been raising money via his contentious satellite station, Fadak TV, which has been operating&nbsp;out of a converted church hall for several years.&nbsp;

Several MPs have called to shut down the station. Ofcom, the regulatory authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries of the UK, raised objections over attacks on people of the Sunni faith.&nbsp;

However, despite repeated warnings, al-Habib has continued his lectures, spreading hate toward the Sunni faith across the world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday.

Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a 45-year-old Muslim cleric, is reportedly in advanced talks to buy the isle of Torsa, off the west coast of Scotland. He hopes his organisation can build schools, hospitals and mosques on the island in order to practise sharia law - turning it into his own 'Islamic State', The Mail reported on Sunday. His followers are called the Mahdi [Messiah] Servants Union. The mile-long island has been uninhabited for 85 years and is located in the Slate Isles. Last year, Savills advertised it for £1.5 million. It is accessible only by sea using a private boat from the neighbouring island of Luing, which is reached via a ferry from the island of Seil. Also read: Nigeria: 125 Boko Haram insurgents convicted by court in mass trial Reports have said that the Muslim scholar, who already runs military-style training camps, has raised more than £3 million to buy a small Scottish island and allow Muslims "from all over the world" to get a visa and live in their new "homeland". As quoted by local reports, al-Habib said in a video: "If you want to live free under the banner of the imam [Shia leader], in a special homeland where you feel everything in it reminds you of the awaited mahdi, everything is the Shia homeland…support this project." Another man, who's filming from Torsa, can be heard saying in the same video: "Here, my brothers, God willing, we want to build a large mosque, a school and a hawza [Shia seminary]. We want this place to be a homeland to the Shias and the believers." Also read: Trump praises ‘brave and beautiful’ female agent amid sexist criticism after assassination bid The extremist academic fled Kuwait and claimed asylum in the United Kingdom around 20 years ago. Fulmer, a little village in South Buckinghamshire, is home to his "global headquarters". Al-Habib, known as the "Mullah of Fulmer," is charged with inciting sectarian hatred in the UK and in the Arab world between Shias and rival Sunni Muslims. The report mentioned that al-Habib has been raising money via his contentious satellite station, Fadak TV, which has been operating out of a converted church hall for several years. Several MPs have called to shut down the station. Ofcom, the regulatory authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries of the UK, raised objections over attacks on people of the Sunni faith. However, despite repeated warnings, al-Habib has continued his lectures, spreading hate toward the Sunni faith across the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Extremist Muslim scholar wants to turn Scottish island into his own ‘Islamic State’

Former First Minister Humza Yousaf faces a probe regarding a Scottish government donation that he requested go to the UN aid agency UNRWA while his in-laws were trapped in the Gaza Strip.

Scotland's Humza Yousaf faces probe for donation to Gaza

In one of the largest Beach strandings, at least 65 pilot whales have died on an island off the North Coast of Scotland in Britain. The British Drivers Marine Life Rescue said that it had altered alerted about the stranding.

Britain's largest whale stranding: 65 long-finned pilot whales die on Scottish Island

Hungary stayed in contention for a spot in the last-16 at Euro 2024 with a 100thminute winner against Scotland in Stuttgart. Hungary forward Barnabas Varga suffered a horrific injury after a collision with Scotland's Angus Gunn. Varga was stretchered off and taken to hospital. He has suffered multiple facial fractures but is stable and will undergo surgery.

EURO 2024: Hungary's Varga stretchered off after horror collision against Scotland

Scotland kept their hopes alive in Euro 2024 with a hard-fought draw, 1-1, versus Switzerland at Euro 2024 on Wednesday. After an early goal from Scott McTominay gave the Scotts a desirable start, Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri's stunning strike&nbsp;within the next 15 minutes, saw the contest&nbsp;equally poised at 1-1. Eventually, it became&nbsp;the final scoreline despite both sides creating enough chances to go ahead. With this result, the Scotts and Switzerland are in a straight shootout for the final spot from Group A. Hungary were&nbsp;knocked out following the loss to hosts Germany&nbsp;earlier in the day. With a 2-0 win over Hungary, the home side are already into the Round of 16.

Talking about the battle between Scotland and Switzerland, the Scotts took an early lead following a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in the tournament opener. Andy Robertson made a powerful run down the left wing and passed the ball to Callum McGregor, who set up McTominay. McTominay’s shot took a deflection off Fabian Schar, wrong-footing the Swiss goalkeeper, to give a 1-0 lead to his side in the 13th minute.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Switzerland was quick to respond as Shaqiri made full use of a defensive error, intercepting a wayward pass and curling a shot into the top corner to level the scores.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-host-germany-ease-past-hungary-to-book-last-16-berth-733313">Euro 2024: Host Germany ease past Hungary to book last 16 berth</a>

From thereon, there were a lot of chances created by both sides. From the Swiss, captain Ricardo Rodriguez narrowly missed with a volley whereas Dan Ndoye repeatedly tested Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn. In addition, Ndoye had a goal disallowed for offside following a corner kick as the scores remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, Scotland were pumped up courtesy of their enthusiastic travelling supporters. In the second half, Grant Hanley came close to take his side to a 2-1 lead, hitting the post with a header from a cross. Moreover, McTominay also nearly scored his second of the night with a powerful shot only to be blocked by Manuel Akanji.&nbsp;

Following the closely-fought battle, Scotland remain alive in the tournament whereas the Swiss missed out on a chance to secure early qualification for the knockouts alongside Germany.

Scotland kept their hopes alive in Euro 2024 with a hard-fought draw, 1-1, versus Switzerland at Euro 2024 on Wednesday. After an early goal from Scott McTominay gave the Scotts a desirable start, Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri's stunning strike within the next 15 minutes, saw the contest equally poised at 1-1.

Scotland kept their hopes alive in Euro 2024 with a hard-fought draw, 1-1, versus Switzerland at Euro 2024 on Wednesday. After an early goal from Scott McTominay gave the Scotts a desirable start, Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri's stunning strike within the next 15 minutes, saw the contest equally poised at 1-1. Eventually, it became the final scoreline despite both sides creating enough chances to go ahead. With this result, the Scotts and Switzerland are in a straight shootout for the final spot from Group A. Hungary were knocked out following the loss to hosts Germany earlier in the day. With a 2-0 win over Hungary, the home side are already into the Round of 16. Talking about the battle between Scotland and Switzerland, the Scotts took an early lead following a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in the tournament opener. Andy Robertson made a powerful run down the left wing and passed the ball to Callum McGregor, who set up McTominay. McTominay’s shot took a deflection off Fabian Schar, wrong-footing the Swiss goalkeeper, to give a 1-0 lead to his side in the 13th minute. On the other hand, Switzerland was quick to respond as Shaqiri made full use of a defensive error, intercepting a wayward pass and curling a shot into the top corner to level the scores. Also read: Euro 2024: Host Germany ease past Hungary to book last 16 berth From thereon, there were a lot of chances created by both sides. From the Swiss, captain Ricardo Rodriguez narrowly missed with a volley whereas Dan Ndoye repeatedly tested Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn. In addition, Ndoye had a goal disallowed for offside following a corner kick as the scores remained unchanged. Meanwhile, Scotland were pumped up courtesy of their enthusiastic travelling supporters. In the second half, Grant Hanley came close to take his side to a 2-1 lead, hitting the post with a header from a cross. Moreover, McTominay also nearly scored his second of the night with a powerful shot only to be blocked by Manuel Akanji. Following the closely-fought battle, Scotland remain alive in the tournament whereas the Swiss missed out on a chance to secure early qualification for the knockouts alongside Germany.

Euro 2024: Scotland keep themselves alive with 1-1 stalemate vs Switzerland

Swifties are shaking things up, literally. Fans at Taylor Swift concerts are dancing so hard that it is triggering seismic activity. Yes, you read that right. During her recent Eras Tour shows in Scotland, the crowd energy was so high that it caused detectable seismic waves, recorded by instruments miles away.&nbsp; 
 
The UK's National Earthquake Monitoring Agency subsequently provided an update on the event. 
 
The British Geological Survey described Swift's Friday concert, attended by 73,000 fans, as "the most energetic," recording 23.4 nanometers (nm) of movement. 
 
This surpassed the measurements of "22.8 nm and 22.3 nm observed on Saturday and Sunday, respectively." 
 
According to the agency, vibrations were detected nearly 6kms away from the concert venue.&nbsp; 
 
The agency clarified that the instrument used to detect seismic activity is specifically designed to identify even the slightest movements from considerable distances.&nbsp; 
 
“The vibrations generated by the concert were unlikely to have been felt by anyone other than those in the immediate vicinity,” they added. 
 
Taylor Swift tracks that caused tremors 
 
The exuberant crowd at Taylor Swift's Edinburgh shows danced so hard that it made the ground shake-up. According to reports, tremors were felt especially during Swift's three mega-hits: Shake It Off,&nbsp;...Ready For It? and Cruel Summer. 
 
The crowd's synchronised dance moves created the maximum energy when Swift belted out ...Ready For It? The song is known for its fast tempo and reports suggest that the crowd's energetic moves generated as much energy as a bunch of car batteries!&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-taylor-swift-fan-went-into-labour-while-attending-the-eras-tour-concert-730447">This Taylor Swift fan went into labour while attending the Eras Tour concert</a>

“The crowd transmitted about 80 kilowatts of power, or about the amount of power created by 10 to 16 car batteries, according to BGS.” 
 
Taylor Swift's concerts and mini-earthquakes 
 
This isn't the first time that Taylor's fans have shaken things up. This UK tour, estimated to draw in over 1.2 million concertgoers, will wrap up with a record-breaking eight nights at London's Wembley Stadium.&nbsp; 
 
Back in 2011, fans of NFL player Marshawn Lynch caused tremors strong enough to register on a seismometer during a game, earning him the nickname "Beast Quake."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-stops-edinburgh-show-refused-to-continue-until-her-fan-gets-help-729839">Taylor Swift stops Edinburgh gig, refuses to continue until her fan gets help</a> 
 
That record was broken soon after during Swift's Seattle gig. Her concert at Seattle's Lumen Field triggered vibrations that were picked up by the same seismometer, proving that music, not just football, can shake up the earth.&nbsp; 
 
That's not all. The Eras Tour's visit to Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium in August generated equivalent vibrations from 70,000 fans in the stands. The song You Belong with Me produced the highest local magnitude, registering at 0.849 as per CBS.&nbsp;

Swifties are shaking things up, literally. Fans at Taylor Swift concerts are dancing so hard that it is triggering seismic activity. Yes, you read that right. During her recent Eras Tour shows in Scotland, the crowd energy was so high that it caused detectable seismic waves, recorded by instruments miles away.

Swifties are shaking things up, literally. Fans at Taylor Swift concerts are dancing so hard that it is triggering seismic activity. Yes, you read that right. During her recent Eras Tour shows in Scotland, the crowd energy was so high that it caused detectable seismic waves, recorded by instruments miles away. The UK's National Earthquake Monitoring Agency subsequently provided an update on the event. The British Geological Survey described Swift's Friday concert, attended by 73,000 fans, as "the most energetic," recording 23.4 nanometers (nm) of movement. This surpassed the measurements of "22.8 nm and 22.3 nm observed on Saturday and Sunday, respectively." According to the agency, vibrations were detected nearly 6kms away from the concert venue. The agency clarified that the instrument used to detect seismic activity is specifically designed to identify even the slightest movements from considerable distances. “The vibrations generated by the concert were unlikely to have been felt by anyone other than those in the immediate vicinity,” they added. Taylor Swift tracks that caused tremors The exuberant crowd at Taylor Swift's Edinburgh shows danced so hard that it made the ground shake-up. According to reports, tremors were felt especially during Swift's three mega-hits: Shake It Off, ...Ready For It? and Cruel Summer. The crowd's synchronised dance moves created the maximum energy when Swift belted out ...Ready For It? The song is known for its fast tempo and reports suggest that the crowd's energetic moves generated as much energy as a bunch of car batteries! This Taylor Swift fan went into labour while attending the Eras Tour concert “The crowd transmitted about 80 kilowatts of power, or about the amount of power created by 10 to 16 car batteries, according to BGS.” Taylor Swift's concerts and mini-earthquakes This isn't the first time that Taylor's fans have shaken things up. This UK tour, estimated to draw in over 1.2 million concertgoers, will wrap up with a record-breaking eight nights at London's Wembley Stadium. Back in 2011, fans of NFL player Marshawn Lynch caused tremors strong enough to register on a seismometer during a game, earning him the nickname "Beast Quake." Taylor Swift stops Edinburgh gig, refuses to continue until her fan gets help That record was broken soon after during Swift's Seattle gig. Her concert at Seattle's Lumen Field triggered vibrations that were picked up by the same seismometer, proving that music, not just football, can shake up the earth. That's not all. The Eras Tour's visit to Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium in August generated equivalent vibrations from 70,000 fans in the stands. The song You Belong with Me produced the highest local magnitude, registering at 0.849 as per CBS.

Taylor Swift's Scotland concert literally had the Earth shaking

Following UK Prime Minister's surprise election announcements Scotland has also kickstarted preparations for the July polls. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak meets Scotland's Conservative leader Douglass Ross before early elections

Scotland prepares for early election, Sunak visits the country for poll campaign

Scotland First Minister says Scottish interests priority in July elections

John Swinney, Scotland’s new first minister, has appointed Kate Forbes as deputy first minister and economy secretary. Shona Robison has stepped down as deputy first minister but will remain in cabinet handling finance and local government. Watch in for more details!

Kate Forbes appointed deputy first minister of Scotland

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP). Watch in for more details!

Scottish Parliament approves John Swinney as First Minister

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new First Minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP). Watch in for more details!

UK: Scottish Parliament approves John Swinney as First Minister

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP).&nbsp;

Swinney, who joined the party as a teenager in 1979, has succeeded Humza Yousaf, who last week announced that he would step down. He formally resigned from the role earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The 60-year-old Swinney won the backing of 64 lawmakers in the vote. the result was a foregone conclusion, with nearest rival Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross picking up 31.&nbsp;

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"My decision to stand for the leadership is not born out of long-held ambition, but rather a profound sense of duty to my party and to my country," Swinney told a cheering audience in Glasgow on Monday.&nbsp;

"I know there's some controversy that I'm the only candidate to stand for the leadership....For me, the fact that I am the only candidate demonstrates that the Scottish National Party is coming back together again now," he added.&nbsp;

Swinney led the SNP from 2000 to 2004 when it was in opposition in the devolved Scottish parliament at Holyrood. He was picked to be finance minister when the SNP became the largest party in the parliament in 2007.&nbsp;

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<h2>Yousaf's resignation&nbsp;</h2>

On April 29, Yousaf resigned as Scotland's first minister - a decision he took instead of facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found.&nbsp;

Yousaf, the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party, previously held health and justice ministerial briefs in the Scottish Government. He succeeded former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon as first minister in March 2023.&nbsp;

His resignation came after the collapse of the Bute House Agreement, which was Yousaf's power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. His government had earlier abandoned ambitious targets for the transition to net-zero carbon emissions, which had angered the Greens. The Greens slammed Yousaf and accused him of "selling out future generations" over climate.&nbsp;

Soon after, the opposition Scottish Conservatives lodged a vote of no-confidence in Yousaf. Scottish Labour has lodged another no-confidence vote in his government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP).

Scotland's parliament on Tuesday (May 7) approved John Swinney as the country's new first minister. This happened a day after he was named leader of the ruling pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP). Swinney, who joined the party as a teenager in 1979, has succeeded Humza Yousaf, who last week announced that he would step down. He formally resigned from the role earlier in the day. The 60-year-old Swinney won the backing of 64 lawmakers in the vote. the result was a foregone conclusion, with nearest rival Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross picking up 31. Also read: Trump hush money trial Day 13 LIVE updates: Stormy Daniels takes the witness stand "My decision to stand for the leadership is not born out of long-held ambition, but rather a profound sense of duty to my party and to my country," Swinney told a cheering audience in Glasgow on Monday. "I know there's some controversy that I'm the only candidate to stand for the leadership....For me, the fact that I am the only candidate demonstrates that the Scottish National Party is coming back together again now," he added. Swinney led the SNP from 2000 to 2004 when it was in opposition in the devolved Scottish parliament at Holyrood. He was picked to be finance minister when the SNP became the largest party in the parliament in 2007. Also read: Ukraine says it foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky Yousaf's resignation On April 29, Yousaf resigned as Scotland's first minister - a decision he took instead of facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found. Yousaf, the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party, previously held health and justice ministerial briefs in the Scottish Government. He succeeded former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon as first minister in March 2023. His resignation came after the collapse of the Bute House Agreement, which was Yousaf's power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. His government had earlier abandoned ambitious targets for the transition to net-zero carbon emissions, which had angered the Greens. The Greens slammed Yousaf and accused him of "selling out future generations" over climate. Soon after, the opposition Scottish Conservatives lodged a vote of no-confidence in Yousaf. Scottish Labour has lodged another no-confidence vote in his government. (With inputs from agencies)

Scottish parliament approves John Swinney as country’s new first minister

Four men have been arrested after half a tonne of cocaine worth more than $50 million (40 million pounds) was found in a van in the car park of a Yorkshire village pub.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the case</h2>

Around 500-kilogramme of cocaine – with an estimated street value of about more than $50 million – was found in the car park of the Stags Head Inn in Lelley in East Yorkshire, England, said the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA).&nbsp;

The government agency also said that it believes that the drugs were brought to shore in a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) after being transferred from a larger vessel off the Hull coast.&nbsp;

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The boat was abandoned at Easington Beach, the NCA added. The beach in question is around 29 kilometres away from the pub where the drugs were found in the back of a Vauxhall Vivaro van.&nbsp;

<h2>About those arrested</h2>

A 22-year-old from Argyll, a 32-year-old from Oban and a 24-year-old from Campbeltown, all in Scotland, and a 39-year-old from Colombia were arrested at 8:30 am (local time) on Saturday (May 4).&nbsp;

“This was a significant amount of cocaine and its seizure will be a sizeable blow to the organised crime group which attempted to smuggle it into the UK,” said senior investigating officer Alan French.&nbsp;

“There’s no doubt these drugs would have been sold into communities around the UK, fuelling further crime and exploitation. Working with our law enforcement partners we are determined to do all we can to disrupt criminal activity, and protect the UK’s border security,” French added.&nbsp;

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The senior official also said that an investigation into the case is underway after the arrests. The operation was supported by Humberside Police, the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit and Border Force, said the NCA.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, a shipment of cocaine worth approximately $565 million had been found&nbsp;in a container&nbsp;at Southampton Port carrying bananas from South America. It was the largest-ever seizure of a haul of class-A drugs in the UK and weighed around 5.7 tonnes, according to the NCA.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Four men have been arrested after half a tonne of cocaine worth more than $50 million (40 million pounds) was found in a van in the car park of a Yorkshire village pub.

Four men have been arrested after half a tonne of cocaine worth more than $50 million (40 million pounds) was found in a van in the car park of a Yorkshire village pub. What we know about the case Around 500-kilogramme of cocaine – with an estimated street value of about more than $50 million – was found in the car park of the Stags Head Inn in Lelley in East Yorkshire, England, said the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA). The government agency also said that it believes that the drugs were brought to shore in a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) after being transferred from a larger vessel off the Hull coast. Also Read | Kim Jong Un propaganda song floors netizens who didn't hesitate to invoke Taylor Swift The boat was abandoned at Easington Beach, the NCA added. The beach in question is around 29 kilometres away from the pub where the drugs were found in the back of a Vauxhall Vivaro van. About those arrested A 22-year-old from Argyll, a 32-year-old from Oban and a 24-year-old from Campbeltown, all in Scotland, and a 39-year-old from Colombia were arrested at 8:30 am (local time) on Saturday (May 4). “This was a significant amount of cocaine and its seizure will be a sizeable blow to the organised crime group which attempted to smuggle it into the UK,” said senior investigating officer Alan French. “There’s no doubt these drugs would have been sold into communities around the UK, fuelling further crime and exploitation. Working with our law enforcement partners we are determined to do all we can to disrupt criminal activity, and protect the UK’s border security,” French added. Also Read | France sets record for world’s longest baguette, beats Italy after five years The senior official also said that an investigation into the case is underway after the arrests. The operation was supported by Humberside Police, the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit and Border Force, said the NCA. Earlier this year, a shipment of cocaine worth approximately $565 million had been found in a container at Southampton Port carrying bananas from South America. It was the largest-ever seizure of a haul of class-A drugs in the UK and weighed around 5.7 tonnes, according to the NCA. (With inputs from agencies)

Half a tonne cocaine worth over $50 million recovered from car park of a UK pub

Scottish National Party (SNP) veteran John Swinney has emerged as the clear frontrunner to become Scotland’s next leader after a potential opponent rules herself out of the contest and backs him. Watch in for more details!

John Swinney set to be Scotland's new First Minister

The Scottish government survived a vote of no confidence on Wednesday, giving the Scottish National Party (SNP) a chance to pick a new leader to replace outgoing First Minister Humza Yousaf.

Yousaf's decision to step down as first minister and SNP leader on Monday has thrown the party into chaos and boosted hopes in Britain's opposition Labour Party that it can regain Scottish seats to win a national election later this year.

Polls show that Labour is ahead of or level with the SNP in&nbsp;Scotland&nbsp;for the first time in a decade.

Yousaf said he would resign after he ended a coalition with the Green Party. It means the SNP are seeking a third leader in little over a year, undermining what had once seemed like its iron grip on power in the devolved Scottish government.

While the Greens made Yousaf's position untenable by withdrawing their confidence in him personally, they voted with the SNP against Wednesday's vote of no confidence in the Scottish government.

The no confidence motion was defeated by 70 votes to 58.

Defeat for the government would have led to the resignation of all ministers and most likely triggered a Scottish election.

With that outcome averted, Yousaf will remain in office until the SNP chooses a new leader. Former SNP party leader John Swinney and Yousaf's old leadership rival Kate Forbes have both said they are considering running.

Yousaf took over the party in March last year, after the resignation of long-time leader Nicola Sturgeon, who faced splits in the party over the best route to independence for&nbsp;Scotland&nbsp;and proposed transgender recognition legislation.

Police have also probed the SNP's finances, and Sturgeon's husband has been charged with embezzling funds from the SNP. She has been arrested and questioned but not charged. Both deny wrongdoing.

The Scottish government survived a vote of no confidence on Wednesday, giving the Scottish National Party (SNP) a chance to pick a new leader to replace outgoing First Minister Humza Yousaf.

The Scottish government survived a vote of no confidence on Wednesday, giving the Scottish National Party (SNP) a chance to pick a new leader to replace outgoing First Minister Humza Yousaf. Yousaf's decision to step down as first minister and SNP leader on Monday has thrown the party into chaos and boosted hopes in Britain's opposition Labour Party that it can regain Scottish seats to win a national election later this year. Polls show that Labour is ahead of or level with the SNP in Scotland for the first time in a decade. Yousaf said he would resign after he ended a coalition with the Green Party. It means the SNP are seeking a third leader in little over a year, undermining what had once seemed like its iron grip on power in the devolved Scottish government. While the Greens made Yousaf's position untenable by withdrawing their confidence in him personally, they voted with the SNP against Wednesday's vote of no confidence in the Scottish government. The no confidence motion was defeated by 70 votes to 58. Defeat for the government would have led to the resignation of all ministers and most likely triggered a Scottish election. With that outcome averted, Yousaf will remain in office until the SNP chooses a new leader. Former SNP party leader John Swinney and Yousaf's old leadership rival Kate Forbes have both said they are considering running. Yousaf took over the party in March last year, after the resignation of long-time leader Nicola Sturgeon, who faced splits in the party over the best route to independence for Scotland and proposed transgender recognition legislation. Police have also probed the SNP's finances, and Sturgeon's husband has been charged with embezzling funds from the SNP. She has been arrested and questioned but not charged. Both deny wrongdoing.

Scottish government survives no-confidence vote after leader Humza Yousaf's resignation

Humza Yousaf announced his resignation. The contest to become Scotland's seventh first minister is now Gathering steam. What is left is now for the candidates to be announced for the vote and one of those is John Swinny who's expected to launch his campaign to become the SNP leader and the country's first Minister. Watch in for more details!

Scottish National Party defeats Labour confidence motion, sets out plan to choose new leader

Scotland's leader Humza Yousaf resigned on Monday, further opening the door to the UK opposition Labour Party regaining ground in its former Scottish heartlands in a national election expected to be held later this year.

Humza Yousaf quits as Scotland's first minister in boost to Labour’s chances in UK vote

Humza Yousaf has resigned as Scotland's first minister after cutting ties with his government's power-sharing partners. Yousaf’s decision comes as he faces likely defeat in two forthcoming confidence votes brought by opposition parties. Watch in for more details!

Humza Yousaf resigns as Scotland’s first minister

Scotland's first Minister Humza Yousaf is reported to be considering stepping down. He faces two no confidence motions one against him and the other against his government. Watch in for more details!

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf faces two no-confidence motions

Humza Yousaf on Monday (Apr 29) resigned as Scotland's first minister rather than facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found.

Humza Yousaf on Monday (Apr 29) resigned as Scotland's first minister rather than facing two confidence votes. The 39-year-old politician also said he would stand down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) but would stay on until his successor was found. Yousaf, the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party, previously held health and justice ministerial briefs in the Scottish Government. He succeeded former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon as first minister in March 2023. Also read: Australian PM Albanese calls domestic violence a 'crisis' amid protests Yousaf said in a statement that he thought winning was "absolutely possible", however, he added that he was "not willing to trade in my values or principles or do deals with whomever simply for retaining power". He added: "I have concluded that repairing our relationships across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm." After his announcement, the parliament now has 28 days to choose a new first minister. Also read: British Foreign Secretary David Cameron criticised for hiring luxury jet for Central Asia tour: Report Watch: UK to launch shock Rwanda operation to detain asylum seekers × This came after Thursday's collapse of the Bute House Agreement, which was Yousaf's power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. Yousaf's government had earlier abandoned ambitious targets for the transition to net-zero carbon emissions, which had angered the Greens. The Greens slammed Yousaf and accused him of "selling out future generations" over climate. Soon after, the opposition Scottish Conservatives lodged a vote of no-confidence in Yousaf. Scottish Labour has lodged another no-confidence vote in his government. The Tories, Labour, Liberal Democrats and Greens had all said they would vote against him in the personal vote. After the resignation, the leadership crisis in the party deepened with a notable fall in SNP's popular support after 17 years of heading the Scottish Government. Polling firm YouGov said earlier this month that for the first time in a decade, the Labour Party had overtaken the SNP in voting intentions for a Westminster election. Labour's win in Scotland in Britain's next national election would significantly bolster the party's chances of taking power from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party. (With inputs from agencies)

Scotland's Humza Yousaf resigns as first minister: 'Not willing to trade in my values'

Humza Yousaf faces a vote of no-confidence next week with the Scottish Greens planning to vote against him. Watch to know more

Can Humza Yousaf survive Scotland's First Minister?

Scottish leader Humza Yousaf  faces battle for survival

Two Indian students, aged 22 and 26, died due to drowning while hiking at a popular tourist spot in Scotland. The incident occurred near Blair of Atholl in Perthshire, where two rivers meet.

Two Indian students, aged 22 and 26, died due to drowning while hiking at a popular tourist spot in Scotland. The incident occurred near Blair of Atholl in Perthshire, where two rivers meet. Emergency services recovered the bodies of the two men on Wednesday night from the water at the Linn of Tummel. A Scotland Police spokesperson said, "At around 7 pm on Wednesday, we received a report of two men in the water at the Linn of Tummel waterfall near Blair Atholl. Emergency services attended and following searches in the area, the bodies of two men were recovered from the water." Also read: Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination The official said that enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances. However, there would not appear to be any "suspicious circumstances" surrounding these deaths, he added. The students, identified as Jitendranath Karuturi, 26, and Chanhakya Bolisetti, were pursuing a Master's degree at Dundee University. Also read: Biden raises eyebrows by claiming cannibals 'ate' his uncle, White House fact-checks A police official said, "On Wednesday night, Jitendranath Karuturi, 26, and Chanhakya Bolisetti, 22, were washed away at Linn of Tummel, which is located north of Pitlochry. There don't seem to be any strange circumstances surrounding the fatalities." "The families of both students have been contacted by the Indian Consulate General, and a consular representative has met a student who resides in the UK. Dundee University has promised to help in every way," an official said. The official said that the process for returning the bodies to India will start after the post-mortem is done. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Indian students found dead at popular tourist spot in Scotland

UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed author JK Rowling in her criticism of new Scottish hate crime laws. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Rishi Sunak backs JK Rowling as row over Scotland's new hate crime law escalates

Ireland held firm to beat Scotland 17-13 in a tight match at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday (March 16) and clinch back-to-back Six Nations titles for the second time in 11 years.

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After England denied them a bid for successive Grand Slams last week, a sluggish Ireland looked at risk of relinquishing their grip on the title and giving the English something to play for in Paris after eking out an unconvincing 7-6 halftime lead.

Andy Farrell's men showed far more intent straight after the break, however, pushing hard until Andrew Porter's 65th-minute try put daylight between the sides, only for a late Huw Jones try and an Irish yellow card to set up a nervy finish.

The victory kept Ireland too far ahead of second-placed England, who play France in the final game of the championship later on Saturday. Scotland finished with two wins and three losses.

Ireland held firm to beat Scotland 17-13 in a tight match at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday (March 16) and clinch back-to-back Six Nations titles for the second time in 11 years.

Ireland held firm to beat Scotland 17-13 in a tight match at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday (March 16) and clinch back-to-back Six Nations titles for the second time in 11 years. Also Read: Championship side Coventry City stun Wolves with late goals to reach FA Cup semis After England denied them a bid for successive Grand Slams last week, a sluggish Ireland looked at risk of relinquishing their grip on the title and giving the English something to play for in Paris after eking out an unconvincing 7-6 halftime lead. Andy Farrell's men showed far more intent straight after the break, however, pushing hard until Andrew Porter's 65th-minute try put daylight between the sides, only for a late Huw Jones try and an Irish yellow card to set up a nervy finish. The victory kept Ireland too far ahead of second-placed England, who play France in the final game of the championship later on Saturday. Scotland finished with two wins and three losses.

Rugby: Ireland keep Six Nations Cup with thrilling win over Scotland

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