Connect with us

NewsBeat

Affidavit: FBI search of Georgia offices tied to probe of possible 2020 election ‘defects’

Published

on

Affidavit: FBI search of Georgia offices tied to probe of possible 2020 election 'defects'

ATLANTA (AP) — The FBI obtained a search warrant to seize hundreds of boxes of ballots from election offices in Fulton County, Georgia, as part of a criminal investigation into possible “deficiencies or defects” in the vote count in the 2020 contest lost by President Donald Trump, according to an affidavit unsealed Tuesday.

The affidavit provides the first public justification for an FBI search last month that targeted a county that Trump and allies have long seen as central to their false claim that the 2020 election was stolen.

But the allegations outlined in the affidavit are largely based on claims that have long been made by people who assert that there was fraud in the 2020 election. Audits, state officials, courts and Trump’s own former attorney general have rejected the idea that there was widespread fraud in the 2020 election that could have altered the outcome.

Among the “deficiencies or defects” investigators are looking at is Fulton County’s admission that it does not have scanned images of all the ballots counted during the original count or the recount, according to the affidavit. Fulton County has also confirmed that some ballots were scanned multiple times during the recount, the affidavit says.

Advertisement

“If these deficiencies were the result of intentional action, it would be a violation of federal law regardless of whether the failure to retain records or the deprivation of a fair tabulation of a vote was outcome determinative for any particular election or race,” the document says.

The affidavit says seizures of the election records was necessary to determine whether election records were destroyed and or the tabulation of votes included materially false votes.” It cites potential violations of a law regarding the preservation and retention of election records, a misdemeanor. It also cites a law that makes it a crime to “knowingly and willfully” deprive residents of a “fair and impartially conducted election process,” which is a felony.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

NewsBeat

North Yorkshire restaurant wins first Michelin Star in 2026

Published

on

North Yorkshire restaurant wins first Michelin Star in 2026

On Monday evening (February 9), Fifty Two at Rudding Park in Harrogate was revealed among the 20 new one-Michelin Star restaurants.

Fifty Two is an immersive dining experience where its bespoke open kitchen and garden “take centre stage” and the twist is, there is no official menu.

The newly announced Michelin Star restaurant (a first for Harrogate) is designed to “create a sense of food theatre”.

The Michelin Guide commented: “Five repurposed shipping containers in the grounds of the Rudding Park hotel provide the setting for a quite theatrical experience, with Adam Degg’s open kitchen and his chefs acting as the stage and its players.

Advertisement

“The restaurant is named after the number of raised beds in the garden, which provide plenty of the produce for the creative dishes.

“Don’t be fooled by the occasional playfulness – there is real skill on show here.”

Head chef of Fifty Two says winning Michelin Star ‘means the world’

In a post on Instagram, Fifty Two’s head chef and host Adam who has featured on the Great British Menu, shared: “Winning this honestly means the world to us. When we opened, the goal was to create something genuine, fun and rooted in the incredible produce we grow in our kitchen garden. I have to give huge credit to Emma [Pugh] and her garden team, whose work shapes every dish we serve.

Advertisement

“Thank you to my team – Other Adam™, Jess, Callum, Finn & Robbie. This recognition is a reflection of your energy, creativity and belief in what we’re building. I’m also deeply grateful to the Mackaness family for trusting me with this project and giving me the freedom to create my dream restaurant.

“Most importantly, thanks to everyone who walks in, sees no menu, and says ‘go on then.’

“Last night was a highlight of my career – a personal milestone. A reminder of how far we’ve come.

“For those yet to discover… the best parties happen in the kitchen!”

If you’re wondering what to expect when visiting Fifty Two, its website reveals: “An arrival drink will be served on the FIFTY TWO terrace at 7pm with dinner served at 7.15pm (Sundays arrival time will be 6pm with dinner served at 6.15pm). If the weather is suitable, there will be an opportunity to walk around the Kitchen Garden before dinner.

Advertisement

“The evening continues with a series of dishes; a selection of snacks, freshly-baked bread; assortment of plates leading up to the main event, followed by dessert and selection of liqueurs.”


Why are so many UK pubs closing?


It adds: “Like a dinner party with friends, there’s no menu and you place your faith in the cooking skills of your host!

“At FIFTY TWO, we use the highest quality ingredients cultivated in our kitchen garden (as such we are in the hands of mother nature!) or selected from trusted local producers and purveyors.”

Head kitchen gardener Emma Pugh and her team grow over 500 different edible plants.

Advertisement

Fifty Two’s website continues: “Using organic and no-dig principles, the gardeners enrich the soil with a variety of organic matter so the crops are packed with nutrients giving the freshest seasonal flavours and textures on your plate.”

Over on Tripadvisor, the restaurant located on Rudding Lane, which also has 3 AA Rosettes, has an impressive 5/5 rating.

‘For those yet to discover… the best parties happen in the kitchen!’ (Image: Tripadvisor)

A recent diner posted: “A superb gastronomic and fun evening at Fifty Two with great service and stunning surroundings.

“The service is relaxed and fun and good with all chefs Adam, Other Adam and Finley and Jess involved.

Advertisement

“All super friendly and confident yet fun and it all meant we had a great dinning experience with food that was inspirational ,and exceptional.”


Recommended reading:


Another wrote: “Lovely atmosphere, good and informal welcome, excellent food together with a commentary for each course. An interesting touch was asking guests to chose a music track.”

This guest put: “Adam has a wonderful team at fifty two. The food tonight was dazzling. The wine pairing was exceptional.

Advertisement

“The tasting menu was a rollercoaster of excitement honouring garden grown and regional fresh produce.

“My wife and I are honoured your team looked after us so well. Phenomenal food. Phenomenal friendly team. Thankyou.”

Will you be heading to Fifty Two at Rudding Park after its Michelin Star success? Let us know if you have been by leaving a comment below.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

The North Yorkshire coastal town which ‘ticks all the boxes’

Published

on

The North Yorkshire coastal town which 'ticks all the boxes'

Henry Pease, one of the fathers of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, once described seeing “a prophetic vision of a town arising on the cliff and the quiet, unfrequented and sheltered glen turned into a lovely garden.”

Today, Saltburn is better known for its colourful beach huts, quirky funicular cliff lift, and Victorian charm.

The town’s history, once linked to smuggling, is centred around the Ship Inn.

Saltburn Cliff Tramway. (Image: Dave Charnley Photography)

John Andrew, the pub’s landlord in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was known locally as the “King of the Smugglers.”

Advertisement

Now, the town perched on the North Yorkshire coast, has been named one of the top places to live in the UK.

A guide from Muddy Stilettos shines a light on the country’s “loveliest city spots, towns and villages” with the best schools, shopping and pubs.

The Northern Lights over Saltburn beach. (Image: Chris Martin)

Muddy Stilettos described Saltburn as having: “A cool, laid-back vibe.

“This seaside gem ticks all the boxes.”

Advertisement

The town also boasts a thriving surf scene and a growing creative community.

Its attractions include the only remaining pleasure pier on the North East and Yorkshire coast as well as one of the oldest funicular lifts in the world, the Saltburn Cliff Tramway.

Saltburn has recently attracted high-profile visitors, including Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant.

Mr Plant stayed at the Spa Hotel over Christmas while touring with his band Saving Grace, and performed a sold-out show in Middlesbrough Town Hall on the Sunday before Christmas.

Advertisement

It appears the “prophetic vision” of a thriving town on the cliff has well and truly come to life.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Biathlon medallist Sturla Holm Laegreid admits cheating on girlfriend

Published

on

Sturla Holm Laegreid of Norway

The seven-time world champion finished third in the biathlon – which combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting – behind champion Johan-Olav Botn, a fellow Norwegian, and Eric Perrot of France.

It is a second Olympic medal for Laegreid, who won gold in the relay at the 2022 Games.

Asked about his admission in the news conference later, he added: “Of course, now I hope I didn’t ruin Johan’s day.

“I don’t know if it was the right choice or not, but it was the choice I made.

Advertisement

“I made the choice to tell the world what I did so maybe there’s a chance she will see what she really means to me – maybe not, but I don’t want to think I didn’t try everything to get her back.

“I don’t want to steal the show. I hope this is just like a day-or-two thing. Then you are an Olympic gold medallist forever.”

Five-time Olympic champion Johannes Thingnes Boe, who is now a biathlete expert with broadcasters NRK, questioned the timing of Laegreid’s admission.

“It came as a complete surprise. His action was wrong – we saw a repentant lad standing there. Unfortunately, the time, place and timing are all wrong,” said Boe, a former team-mate of Laegreid.

Advertisement

Botn shouted the name of late team-mate Sivert Guttorm Bakken as he crossed the line to win gold.

Bakken was found dead on 23 December in a hotel room in northern Italy, about two hours from where the biathlon was held.

“I was racing with him the entire last loop. And, yeah, it was more like a feeling of crossing the finish line together, and seeing the number one beside my name was really special,” an emotional Botn said.

Laegreid added: “We were five guys on the start line, and one of them was watching from above. This was for Sivert, really.”

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Newscast – Has Keir Starmer Saved His Job (For Now)?

Published

on

Newscast - Epstein Files: New Mandelson and Andrew Allegations

Available for over a year

Today, Keir Starmer says that he will “never walk away from the country that I love” after surviving a turbulent 24 hours that saw the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar call for him to step down.

Speaking to the BBC, his energy secretary Ed Miliband said the Labour Party had “looked over the precipice” and decided to back their leader leading to a rallying of support from the cabinet and other senior party figures.

So, the Prime Minister is in the clear for now, but is he truly safe? Alex and James break down another turbulent 24 hours in Westminster before catching up with Daniela Relph senior royal correspondent and Caitríona Perry, BBC News chief presenter in Washington to discuss the wider fallout from the Epstein files in the US and for the royal family.

Advertisement

You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say “Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.

You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord

Get in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.

New episodes released every day. If you’re in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd

Advertisement

Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were James Cook and Alex Forsyth. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi and Chloe Scannapieco. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Programme Website

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

‘My heart transplant has been an amazing gift of life’

Published

on

Belfast Live

Just over three months since her transplant surgery, she is now growing in strength each day and walking has helped with her recovery.

A Co Down woman says she has been given the ‘amazing gift of life’ having recently undergone a heart transplant.

Advertisement

Valerie McIlveen from Donaghadee lived with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) for 20 years after being diagnosed at the age of 46. DCM is a disease of your heart muscle where your heart chambers become enlarged and your heart’s muscle wall becomes thinner and weaker.

The 66-year-old golfer and former Ladies Captain of Donaghadee Golf Club said: “I was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy in 2006 and because of my deteriorating condition, I was assessed in the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle Upon Tyne in September 2025.

READ MORE: ‘I always felt pacemakers were for older people until I got one fitted at 20 years old’READ MORE: ‘My heart attack was a real shock after being fit and healthy all my life’

“After being accepted onto the Urgent Heart Transplant List I was admitted to the Pre-Transplant Unit at the Freeman Hospital. Just four weeks after admission, I was in the fortunate position to receive an offer of a donor heart last November.”

Advertisement

Just over three months since Valerie’s transplant surgery, she is now growing in strength each day and walking has helped with her recovery.

Now Valerie is on a mission for Heart Month in February to complete the British Heart Foundation’s ‘Walk for Hearts’ challenge. She is walking a mile a day throughout this month to raise much-needed funds for BHF’s research into cardiovascular disease.

Valerie, who has already raised over £1,400 to help fund research into cardiovascular disease, said: “I’m feeling fit enough to take up the BHF challenge to walk one mile per day in the month of February. I’m so thankful to everyone who is supporting me in my recovery.

Advertisement

“The journey to regaining full recovery will be long, but each month brings increased quality of life. I would also like to highlight the huge nationwide need for organ donation.

“During my time spent in the Pre Transplant Unit, I met and became friends with other patients who have been waiting years for a heart transplant. I would therefore like to encourage everyone to seriously consider becoming organ donors and having the necessary conversation with their loved ones.”

Valerie added: “I am so grateful for the amazing gift of life offered to me by the donor’s family.”

Fearghal McKinney, Head of BHF Northern Ireland, said: “Valerie’s strength and resilience throughout the last number of months is really inspirational. We’re so thankful for her fundraising support of BHF’s Walk for Hearts challenge during Heart Month and for raising vital awareness of the urgency of cardiovascular disease and the need for organ donors.

“If you are one of the 230,000 people in Northern Ireland living with cardiovascular disease and you are able to exercise, walking could be especially helpful, as it is low impact and you can build up slowly at a pace that’s suitable for you. Valerie was checked by medical professionals and deemed well enough for this challenge and it’s important to speak with your own doctor for personalised advice.”

Fearghal added: “Every three minutes, someone in the UK dies from cardiovascular disease. Through our incredible supporters like Valerie, British Heart Foundation can power research that will enable people to live longer, healthier lives.”

To support Valerie, go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/valerie-mcilveen-1#sharePage. Participants can sign up for ‘Walk for Hearts’ until February 14th. To find out more, visit www.bhf.org.uk/walkforhearts.

Advertisement

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

All Creatures Great and Small stars leave fans laughing

Published

on

All Creatures Great and Small stars leave fans laughing

As excitement continues to build ahead of the show’s US broadcast on MASTERPIECE | PBS, the much-loved cast took part in a light-hearted challenge that saw them step into each other’s shoes, with predictably hilarious results.

All Creatures Great and Small (Image: CHANNEL 5)

In the clip, viewers are invited to imagine an alternative Darrowby, as Nicholas Ralph delivers lines as Tristan Farnon, while Callum Woodhouse takes on the role of James Herriot, completely flipping the script on the familiar period drama.

The playful video sees the actors reading out iconic lines normally spoken by their co-stars, giving them “a taste of life on the other side of the scene” and offering fans a glimpse of the strong camaraderie that exists off-screen.

Advertisement

MASTERPIECE | PBS shared the clip with the caption: “Nicholas Ralph as Tristan? Callum Woodhouse as James? The script’s been flipped! Join the All Creatures Great and Small actors as they swap roles and get a taste of life on the other side of the scene.”

Fans were quick to respond, with many praising the cast’s sense of humour and chemistry, and joking about how “convincing” and “mischievous”.

The video is the latest in a series of promotional clips released following the end of Series 6 in the UK, which concluded with a Christmas Eve episode set in 1945 as the Second World War came to an end.



While the show is known for its storytelling and emotional depth, moments like this have delighted viewers by revealing the fun and warmth shared by the cast behind the scenes.

Advertisement

All Creatures Great and Small, filmed across the Yorkshire Dales including Grassington, Broughton Hall and Oakworth Station, continues to enjoy huge popularity both at home and overseas.

With Series 7 and 8 already confirmed in the UK, fans on both sides of the Atlantic are eagerly awaiting a return to Darrowby.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Why mid-career is such a dangerous time for burnout and workplace stress

Published

on

Why mid-career is such a dangerous time for burnout and workplace stress

Everyone recognises the trope of the stressed-out senior manager who’s always close to breaking point. But, in fact, mid-career is one of the most vulnerable periods for burnout and stress in a worker’s life. At this stage, many people have extra responsibilities outside work at the same time as their employer increases expectations around performance, availability and leadership.

Mid-career is often where this double load increases the risk of burnout. Research has found that these professionals experienced particularly high levels of burnout, worked longer hours and reported lower job satisfaction compared to other age groups. A key driver was the ongoing tension between meeting the demands of their job and maintaining a work–life balance.

Importantly, burnout is now widely recognised not as an individual failing, but as a workplace problem. The condition is characterised by emotional exhaustion, cynicism and lower productivity, with research showing that it is shaped primarily by organisational structures, cultures and leadership practices rather than a worker’s weakness or a lack of coping skills.

Burnout does not affect all groups equally. Women, for example, report higher levels of both personal and work-related burnout than men, particularly in mid-career. This could reflect women taking on more of a family’s caring responsibilities as well as expectations about availability and emotional labour.

Advertisement

The COVID pandemic intensified these dynamics. Many mid-career professionals had to juggle work and family responsibilities at the same time as their social interactions were curtailed and their workloads and working hours stretched. Since the height of the pandemic, all sectors and roles have seen increases in burnout rates, with health and social care organisations being hit particularly hard.

Absorbing the pressure

Stress and burnout come at a cost to employers through lost working days, absenteeism and “leavism” (people working while on leave). Mid-career professionals are especially exposed because they are often expected to absorb pressure without showing strain. This could be, for instance, leading a team through organisational change at the same time as meeting their own performance targets and supporting junior colleagues.

In many organisations, chronic overload and constant busyness are normalised and even rewarded. Permanent availability becomes a marker of competence rather than a warning sign.

Despite this, there remains an assumption that mid-career professionals are inherently resilient. However, prolonged exposure to high levels of stress can make them less resilient. Experience does not necessarily protect against burnout; in many cases it just conceals it.

Advertisement

Symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia and anxiety are frequently minimised or ignored until stress reaches a breaking point. Those known for their ability to “power through” often suppress warning signs to maintain a professional identity. These workers often delay asking for help, in part because things commonly associated with burnout (long hours, constant responsiveness and chronic overwork, for example) are often normalised.

While short-term stress can sometimes enhance performance, so-called “good stress” sits close to a tipping point. When pressure becomes chronic and recovery time is limited or absent, stress becomes a direct pathway to burnout.

My research looking at line managers’ development highlights these risks. Middle leaders and mid-career professionals were consistently described as overloaded and under-trained for their management responsibilities. Many had entered leadership roles with little or no formal preparation, and had to learn how to manage people on the job.

Promotions often brought significant increases in responsibility without corresponding investment in training. And where there were opportunities for development, they were frequently ad hoc and inconsistent. This combination fuelled anxiety and self-doubt – well-established precursors to burnout.

Advertisement

Being under-prepared for taking on management duties can fuel the risk of burnout.
fizkes/Shutterstock

As part of the project, we interviewed more than 150 line managers from both the public and private sectors. Our findings strongly suggest that burnout is shaped by workplace systems, norms and expectations. Organisational practices and processes, along with culture and leadership patterns, play an important role. Unrealistic targets, excessive monitoring and a culture of long hours amplify stress. And leadership practices that prioritise constant performance pressure actively increase burnout risk.

Work climate matters more than hours alone – risk factors include bullying, sexual harassment and toxic leadership styles. Notably, burnout is closely linked to engagement from leaders, or the absence of it. For example, one study found that mid-career professionals, particularly women, suffer burnout when their effort goes unrecognised by managers.

Leaders who listen, acknowledge effort and offer recognition can significantly reduce the risk of burnout. Essentially, feeling that your work matters and is valued makes a measurable difference.

Advertisement

Leaders can design work for sustainability rather than endurance. This includes making sure workloads and targets are realistic, as well as stamping out cultures where constant availability is prized.

Mid-career leadership roles must be properly supported, and workers should be given protected time for training and development rather than being expected to learn through trial and error. Their managers should try to create a safe environment – listening seriously, responding early to concerns and intervening before stress escalates into burnout.

Finally, strong team working and a sense of community at work provide meaning that buffers against burnout. In mid-career, when pressures converge from multiple directions, connection is not a luxury but a necessity. The importance of joy at work is often overlooked. Opportunities to create meaning, connection and enjoyment are not indulgent extras; they protect against chronic stress and burnout.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Olympian Sturla Holm Laegreid admits to cheating on girlfriend after medal win | World News

Published

on

Sturla Holm Laegreid wipes away tears with a soft toy. Pic: Reuters

Norwegian Olympian Sturla Holm Laegreid confessed in a live television interview to cheating on his girlfriend, moments after winning a bronze medal.

Laegreid finished in third place in the biathlon, which combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, and then broke down in tears at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday.

The Norwegian told fans he already “had a gold medal” up until last week – but squandered it by being unfaithful.

Speaking to Norwegian state broadcaster NRK in his native language, just moments after finishing his biathlon, he said: “There’s someone I wanted to share it with who might not be watching today.

Advertisement

“Six months ago, I met the ​love of my life – the most beautiful and kindest ​person in the world.

“Three months ago, I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her. I told her about it a week ago. It’s ‌been the worst week of my life.”

Image:
Laegreid’s team comfort him after the race. Pic: Associated Press

Teammate Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold wipes tears from his face. Pic: Associated Press
Image:
Teammate Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold wipes tears from his face. Pic: Associated Press

The 28-year-old then issued a heartfelt plea but stopped short of naming the woman.

More on Winter Olympics 2026

Advertisement

“I had a gold medal in my life, and there are probably many who look ​at me with different eyes, but I only have eyes for her,” he added. “Sport has taken a slightly different place [in my life] the last few days. I wish I could share it with her.”

Read more from Sky News:
Lindsey Vonn reveals extent of injuries
Winter Olympics hit by penis enhancement controversy

Advertisement
Laegreid's spirits didn't appear to pick up when he was up on the podium. Pic: Associated Press
Image:
Laegreid’s spirits didn’t appear to pick up when he was up on the podium. Pic: Associated Press

Laegreid later said he might not have been in the right state of mind to give the interview after the race, which came in the wake of the death of his teammate, Sivert ‍Guttorm Bakken, in December last year.

“Maybe it was really selfish of me to give that interview,” he said a few hours later. “So yeah, I ​don’t know. I was, I’m a bit, I don’t know… I’m not really here mentally.

“So yeah, we will see what happens.”

Laegreid in action in the biathlon. Pic: Reuters
Image:
Laegreid in action in the biathlon. Pic: Reuters

Laegreid was beaten by silver medalist Eric Perrot, from France, and gold medalist Johan-Olav Botn, from Norway. Pic: Associated Press
Image:
Laegreid was beaten by silver medalist Eric Perrot, from France, and gold medalist Johan-Olav Botn, from Norway. Pic: Associated Press

Laegreid came third in the men’s Olympic 20km individual biathlon race in northern Italy. His fellow Norwegian Johan-Olav Botn took gold while France’s Eric Perrot claimed the silver.

The race came as US skier Lindsey Vonn confirmed she will need “multiple surgeries” following her crash in the women’s downhill skiing final on Sunday.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Scotland’s best Indian curry houses and takeaways named at prestigious awards

Published

on

Daily Record

The 4th Nation’s Curry Awards 2026 honoured the UK’s top curry talent in a ceremony on February 9

The 4th Nation’s Curry Awards 2026 have celebrated the finest talent in the Scotland’s curry industry, recognising the creativity, dedication, and excellence that make the cuisine a cornerstone of Scottish dining. From traditional curries to modern innovations, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals and businesses driving the country’s rich and diverse curry culture.

Advertisement

Oceanic Awards has announced the winners of the 4th Nation’s Curry Awards 2026, celebrating excellence across the UK’s vibrant curry industry. The ceremony took place on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the Cedar Court Huddersfield Hotel, recognising the talent, innovation, and dedication of individuals and businesses that made the UK’s curry scene a cornerstone of the nation’s culinary landscape.

In Scotland, Firangi in Cambuslang was named Curry Restaurant of the Year. The restaurant, which boasts a 4.8-star Tripadvisor rating from 47 reviews, aims to offer “a journey of flavour, culture and tradition.” Its website explains at Firangi, “food is more than just a meal — it’s an experience that brings people together,” with dishes crafted from hand-ground spices and locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and family culinary traditions helped it stand out among Scotland’s top Indian dining spots.

Bombay Lounge in Dalkeith was awarded Indian Restaurant of the Year, recognised for its transformation of a historic building into a modern, spacious restaurant complete with a beer garden and barbecue area. The family-run restaurant, led by Edinburgh-born Michael Singh and his brother Si, combines over 22 years of experience in Indian cuisine with a focus on “something new for Dalkeith,” according to their website.

Advertisement

With 4.3 stars from 836 Tripadvisor reviews, Bombay Lounge impressed judges with both its menu and its commitment to blending tradition with contemporary flair.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

Zain’s Curry House in Dalry took the title of Takeaway of the Year. Known for its award-winning Indian cuisine, the takeaway has been celebrated in the Scottish Curry Awards, Spice Awards, and Scotland Food Awards. Its website describes the menu as “a celebration of both authentic Indian cuisine and beloved fast-food classics,” highlighting dishes from kormas and biryanis to burgers and pizzas.

Although it has a modest 3.3-star Tripadvisor rating from 63 reviews, Zain’s focus on quality ingredients and flavour earned it the top takeaway spot in Scotland.

Yasmin Mahmood, CEO of Oceanic Awards, said: “We’re proud to once again celebrate the finest in the UK’s curry scene, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved cuisine.

Advertisement

“The UK’s curry industry is a vital part of our culture, and these awards recognise the exceptional talents of the individuals and businesses that make it so special. We’d like to congratulate all of our winners on their incredible accomplishments.”

The awards span regions and categories, highlighting the best of curry restaurants, takeaways, and chefs, while also recognising outstanding achievement and excellence in specific areas such as street food, family-friendly dining, and vegetarian cuisine.

In addition to the top honours, the awards also shine a spotlight on local favourites, emerging talent, and long-standing contributions to the industry.

The full list of winners includes:

  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – North: Aarti (Leeds)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – Midlands: Gandhi Indian Restaurant (Stoke on Trent)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – South: The Coriander Club (Reading)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – Wales: Bangor Tandoori Restaurant (Bangor)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – Scotland: Firangi (Cambuslang)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year – Overall Winner: Aarti (Leeds)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – North: Bollywood Cottage (Skipton)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – Midlands: Kolshi Premier Indian Restaurant (Warwick)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – South: Elai (Basingstoke)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – Wales: Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurant (Caernarfon)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – Scotland: Bombay Lounge (Dalkeith)
  • Indian Restaurant of the Year – Overall Winner: Kolshi Premier Indian Restaurant (Warwick)
  • Takeaway of the Year – England: Kingsthorpe Spice (Northampton)
  • Takeaway of the Year – Wales: Indian Saffron Restaurant (Deeside)
  • Takeaway of the Year – Scotland: Zain’s Curry House (Dalry)
  • Takeaway of the Year – Overall Winner: Kingsthorpe Spice (Northampton)
  • Outstanding Takeaway of the Year: Chutney Express (Birmingham)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Masala Bay (Kent)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Rizq Flavours Of India (Sunderland)
  • Takeaway and Home Delivery of the Year: Bengal Palace (Norwich)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Ali’s Kitchen (Stoke On Trent)
  • Recognised for Excellence: The Indian Kitchen (Liverpool)
  • Outstanding Curry of the Year: The Lounge Bar and Restaurant (Tipton)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Sheesh Mahal (Hartlepool)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Shamoli (Knutsford)
  • Outstanding Restaurant of the Year: Lalbagh Indian Restaurant (Cambridge)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Mount Gurkha Bistro (Wolverhampton)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Planet Bollywood (Stoke-on-Trent)
  • Best of Manchester: Spice n Spirits (Manchester)
  • Outstanding Achievement: The Original Third Eye (Manchester)
  • Recognised for Excellence: The Great Kathmandu (Manchester)
  • Best of Birmingham: Patiala Indian Restaurant (Birmingham)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Pushkar Cocktail Bar & Dining (Birmingham)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Indian Cafe Racer (Birmingham)
  • Best of Lancashire: Rivaj of India (Wigan)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Zest of India (Blackpool)
  • Recognised for Excellence: The Pepper Bistro (Preston)
  • Best of Yorkshire: Bengal Brasserie (Wetherby)
  • Outstanding Achievement: International Restaurant (Bradford)
  • Recognised for Excellence: De Baga Restaurant (Leeds)
  • Leicestershire Restaurant of the Year: Spice Bazaar (Leicester)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Hyderabadi Adda (Leicester)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Varanasi Boutique Restaurant (Leicester)
  • Best of the West Midlands: Titash Indian Restaurant (Birmingham)
  • Outstanding Achievement: The Ameena Restaurant (Halesowen)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Divine Restaurant (Solihull)
  • Best East Midlands: Kushboo (Kettering)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Kottaram Restaurant (Nottingham)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Mem Saab (Leicester)
  • Pakistani Restaurant of the Year: Ayaan’s (Bolton)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Apni Basti Karahi & Grill (Nottingham)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Lahori Tawa and Grill Restaurant (Blackburn)
  • Afghani Restaurant of the Year: Afghan Shinwari (Luton)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Kabul Karahi & Grill (Manchester)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Kabul Dera (Aylesbury)
  • Nepalese Restaurant of the Year: Panas Gurkha Restaurant (Chislehurst)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Mount Gurkha Bistro (Wolverhampton)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Da Mount Gurkha (Liverpool)
  • Bangladeshi Restaurant of the Year: Bangla Lounge (Birstall)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Jaflong Bangladeshi (Ripon)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Bangla Pride (Telford)
  • South Indian Restaurant of the Year: Vijay Indian Restaurant (London)
  • Outstanding Achievement: ILLAM Restaurant (Harrogate)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Tharavadu Restaurant (Leeds)
  • Sri Lankan Restaurant of the Year: Colombo Street (Worcester Park)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Choice of Taste Sri Lankan Restaurant (High Wycombe)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Kottu Hut (Bristol)
  • Punjabi Restaurant of the Year: Namaste Punjab (Chichester)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Royal Punjab Restaurant (Walsall)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Punjabi Dera (Manchester)
  • Curry Kitchen of the Year: Kanchan’s Kitchen (Birmingham)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Gharrana – Indian Kitchen (Altrincham)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Indian Kitchen (Bristol)
  • Vegetarian Restaurant of the Year: Chai Panni (Leicester)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Namaste Village (Norwich)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Sanskruti Restaurant (Manchester)
  • Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: Chequers Indian Lounge (Ipswich)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Masala City (Chichester)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Banarasi (Newcastle-under-Lyme)
  • Bar Curry Restaurant of the Year: MasalaCraft (York)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Bombay Club (Boston)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar (Gateshead)
  • Street Food Restaurant of the Year: Delhi Wala Food (Leeds)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Ajab Gajab Indian Street Food Restaurant & Bar (Liverpool)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Ahaar Indian Street Food (Manchester)
  • Local Restaurant of the Year: Jumaira Restaurant (Doncaster)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Jilani (Sudbury)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Imani’s Restaurant (Birmingham)
  • Best Team of the Year: International Restaurant (Bradford)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Deshi Spice Restaurant & Lounge (Bedford)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Jhinook Restaurant (Worksop)
  • Best Family Friendly Restaurant of the Year: Westbourne Spice (Otley)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Namaste Indian Restaurant (South Shields)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Bombay 8 Indian Restaurant (Warrington)
  • Best Chef of the Year: Aroma Asian Restaurant (Burnley)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Ali’s Kitchen (Stoke on Trent)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Britannia Spice (Parkgate, Cheshire)
  • New Restaurant of the Year: Zhal khan Restaurant (Berwick on Tweed)
  • Outstanding Achievement: Base Camp Indian Kitchen (Cardiff)
  • Recognised for Excellence: Namaste Punjab (Chichester)
  • Special Recognition Award: Da Mount Gurkha
  • Voter’s Choice Restaurant of the Year: Masala City
  • Organizer’s Award for Outstanding Restaurant: Bombay 8 Indian Restaurant
  • Recommended Restaurant of the Year: Deshi Spice

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Fire engines rush to Marsden House in Bolton after false alarm

Published

on

Fire engines rush to Marsden House in Bolton after false alarm

Safety precautions were undertaken and several fire engines were despatched to the scene, only to discover it was a false alarm.

According to on-site firefighters, the alarm is thought to have been caused by a malfunction in the comms room smoke detector.

Firefighters have since worked to disable the alarm while residents wait to re-enter the building, although workers did note that fixing fire panels is not usually within their remit.

Advertisement

Despite the false alarm being raised in this case, members of the public have been encouraged to always call 999 in the event of an emergency as soon as it is safe to do so.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025