Jordan Linden has told his lawyers to appeal his conviction and sentence.

A disgraced former SNP council leader who was jailed for sexually assaulting young men has launched a bid to clear his name.

Jordan Linden, 30, was convicted of the attacks as well as directing unwanted sexual communications towards seven teenagers. He was sentenced to 18 months behind bars at Falkirk Sheriff Court last week.

It has now emerged that he has told his lawyers to appeal his conviction and sentence. Linden, who was once leader of North Lanarkshire Council, sent youngsters sexual communication which included photos of him in a bath and shots of his genitalia.

The offences took place over a 10-year period from 2011 until 2021. He repeatedly denied any wrongdoing but was convicted by jurors following a seven-day trial in March.

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Linden, who also chaired the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP), had denied all the charges against him and claimed that they either did not take place or were consensual.

His lawyer, David Moggach KC, said Linden has been ‘bullied’ in his teenage years because of his sexuality and suffered ‘social isolation’ as a result. He added that Linden was now aware that his behaviour ‘simply was unacceptable and he overstepped certain boundaries’.

Sheriff Christopher Shead ruled that there was no alternative to a prison sentence and placed Linden on the sex offenders’ register. Linden blew a kiss to his dad as he was led away to the cells and was later seen in handcuffs being loaded into a prison custody van.

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Shamed Linden became a councillor for the SNP in 2017 and rose to become council leader in North Lanarkshire in 2022. He resigned from the post a few weeks later following the allegations and was arrested in 2024.

The court heard from an SNP party official who said Linden locked him in a bathroom and tried to get him to urinate while he watched. The man, who was 18 at the time, said the incident took place after a Dundee Pride parade when Linden was very drunk and being ‘very handsy’ with people.

Another man, who joined the SYP at the same time as Linden as a teenager, said Linden’s touching, on the face or the cheek or the neck, was ‘relentless’.

First Minister John Swinney said he was ‘very sorry’ to anyone who suffered because of Linden. Swinney ordered an independent review of the SNP’s complaints process after some witnesses claimed complaints about Linden were ignored by the party.

The Appeal Court in Edinburgh confirmed that an ‘intention to appeal’ had been lodged for Linden.

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Formerly known as Saravana Bhavan, this South Indian vegetarian institution can be found in various locations across the city, and across the globe. They have a site in Leicester Square, Wembley and Southall to name a few, and they offer a wide variety of dosa on their menu. Prices start at £6.95 for dosa, and they all come served with sambar, coconut chutney and spicy red chutney. Highlights include the paper roast dosa and the chef’s special aloo masala cheese dosa.

Under Flick’s management Raphinha, despite a season interrupted with injuries, has developed into a more consistent and influential attacker.

Flick has increased the Brazilian’s attacking responsibility and refined his role, encouraging quicker decision-making in transition and a more direct style of play that suits his strengths.

Pedri has remained a central figure in midfield, thriving in a system built around quick progression.

Robert Lewandowski, meanwhile, has rediscovered his sharpness within Flick’s system. With better service and more structured attacking patterns around him, the veteran Poland striker, 37, once again looks decisive. His future at the club is still unknown with his contract expiring in June.

Eric Garcia has emerged as one of the season’s most valuable tactical players, filling multiple positions seamlessly, while Gerard Martin has exceeded expectations after being placed into a key defensive role.

Even in defeat, Barcelona consistently responded. Following losses to Girona and Real Madrid in October, they immediately launched long winning streaks in the league, rather than allowing setbacks to spiral.

Flick has also shown a strong willingness to rotate and trust squad players, which has helped Barcelona maintain intensity and consistency across a demanding season. Marcus Rashford has been one of those players.

Although he has not been a guaranteed starter, Flick has regularly used him off the bench in key moments and statistics show he ranks among the best forwards at the top-three Spanish clubs – Barca, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – if you measure goals and assists per minute across La Liga this season.

Rashford scored the most important goal of his Barcelona career on Sunday, a phenomenal free-kick that opened the score in El Clasico.

It was a fitting moment for the 28-year-old, who could be signed by the Catalan club on a permanent basis for 35m euros (£30m) – although whether they turn Rashford’s loan into a permanent signing remains to be seen.

Flick has also been praised for showing care for his players.

The manager granted Ronald Araujo a leave of absence in December to prioritise his mental health, describing it as a private situation. Flick did not share further details about the situation and asked the media to respect the defender’s privacy.

Richmond Castle, one of England’s most complete Norman fortresses, announced on social media on Monday (May 11) that it will be shut for the day.

The historic site said: “We’ve had to unexpectedly close Richmond Castle at short notice today.

“If you have a booking for when we’re closed, we will automatically cancel any bookings and make any necessary refunds within 10 working days.”

It is currently unclear for the reason behind the closure, but organisers have confirmed the castle will reopen as normal tomorrow.

The post added: “We always do everything we can to avoid unexpected closures like this, and we’re really sorry to disappoint you.

“We will reopen tomorrow as normal on Tuesday, May 12.

“Thank you for understanding.”

The Norman stronghold stands above the River Swale in the heart of Richmond and was built from the 1070s by Alan Rufus to secure his new lands after the Norman Conquest.

The castle features a 12th-century keep and served as a detention centre for conscientious objectors during the First World War.

English Heritage describes it as the best-preserved early-Norman castle in England.

The BBC’s Will Grant has been taking a look around the base camps that England and defending champions Argentina will call home during the FIFA World Cup.

England will be based at Swope Soccer Village, while Argentina will train at the Sporting KC Training Center, both located in Kansas City.

The Netherlands and Algeria have also chosen to stay in the area.

The training sites will serve as hubs for match preparation, including practice sessions, player workouts, team meetings and day-to-day staff operations.

Video produced by Blanca Estrada

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — An overwhelming majority of the Philippine House of Representatives voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday over alleged unexplained wealth, misuse of state funds and threats to have the president assassinated.

The House, which is dominated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s allies, voted 255-26 with nine abstentions. The two impeachment complaints against Duterte now move to the Senate, which will convene into a tribunal for her trial.

The vice president, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has generally denied any wrongdoing without answering the criminal allegations against her in detail.

Last year, she was also impeached by the House but survived the attempt and was not tried on orders of the Supreme Court due to a constitutional technicality.

David Campbell told the Nolan radio show that he provided the reference on the basis of his knowledge of Lloyd-Lavery for over 30 years, and his fear that a custodial sentence could result in his death or a serious stroke

Former Ulster Unionist Party chairman and current chair of the Loyalist Communities Council, David Campbell, has continued to defend providing a character reference for convicted paedophile teacher, William Lloyd-Lavery.

William Lloyd-Lavery, 77, of Richmond Avenue in Lisburn, was found guilty in January of six counts of indecent assault against four girls at a South Belfast school in the 1970s. He also worked as a speech writer and press officer for a number of UUP MLAs until his retirement in 2017.

In a statement to the BBC’s Nolan Show, Mr Campbell said: “You can’t pick and choose which aspects of our judicial and sentencing process we like and those we don’t.”

David Campbell also told the Nolan radio show that abuse or attempted abuse of any child is “completely unacceptable and abhorrent,” and that he provided the reference on the basis of his knowledge of Lloyd-Lavery for over 30 years, and his fear that a custodial sentence could result in his death or a serious stroke.

This comes days after Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows told Belfast Live that he is “disgusted” that Mr Campbell provided the reference.

Also appearing on the Nolan Show on Monday morning, Justice Minister Naomi Long told the programme that she would like to see the law reformed to remove character references for those convicted of sexual crimes and domestic abuse, and that this is currently being considered as part of the sentencing review which is currently ongoing at Stormont.

“I f someone is in ill health, that is something that the judge will take into account anyway, there will be medical reports and so on that can be provided to the judge by the defendant’s legal team, so there’s no need for an unqualified person to come forward and give a view on medical issues, and healthcare in prisons are more than capable of looking after people with complex medical needs and do it on a regular basis, so I don’t think that that necessarily stacks up,” she said in response to Mr Campbell’s justification.

“I also think that it has to be considered in the round, I mean, I am aware of previous interviews that David Campbell has given on this, where he referenced the limited scope of the offending, I think that was the phrase that he used, and again, it feels to me like it minimised in some way the suffering of the individuals who were affected.

“It’s up to the trial judge to decide how they will apply these, and as I’ve said already, there are already indications, there are already guidances and directions in terms of how that should be, and it says that in cases of rape and sexual assault, they should carry less weight, than in other cases, and I think actually in it with rape in particular, they’re said to be a very limited value.

“So that is, I think, already a good starting point, but my point fundamentally is, how will what David Campbell said, however well intended, how will that ring in the ears, of Nicola and Lynn and the other women who were abused by Lloyd Lavery and have had to live with that trauma for their entire adult lives before being able to have the courage, the confidence and ability to seek justice.”

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Local historian Dave Simpson has turned his long-standing fascination with York into a richly detailed guide that blends storytelling, archaeology and visual exploration.

His latest release, City of York (The Town and Country Series), brings together centuries of history in a compact, image-heavy format designed for both visitors and locals.

Spanning 270 pages and featuring about 440 colour photographs, the book traces York’s story from Roman foundations through Viking rule and into later medieval and modern eras.

It also focuses on the city’s streets, landmarks, rivers and lesser-known corners, offering readers a layered view of a place where history is never far beneath the surface.

Dave Simpson with his new book City of York, a richly illustrated guide exploring the city’s history from ancient times to today. (Image: DAVE SIMPSON)

Mr Simpson, who lives near Durham City, said: “I wanted to produce something that showed off the beauty of York but at the same time featured substantial content in a handy size.

“Hopefully, I’ve put something together that will appeal to both locals and visitors and have tried to pack the book with lots of facts and knowledge, keeping good value in mind.”

He describes the book as a “handy” softback packed with detail.

Rich in history

Mr Simpson has held a lifelong fascination with York and its rich history.

He said: “I’ve always had a great passion for York, which I’ve regularly visited since I was a kid and feel a strong emotional connection to the place.

“I love history, particularly the medieval, Roman and Anglo-Saxon periods but most especially the Vikings, so York just resonates with my interests.

“There are some dark aspects to York’s history too and in particular the Jewish massacre associated with Clifford’s Tower in which over 150 Jews died in the 12th century.

“I’ve tried to cover this in a little more detail than other guide books.”

He describes York as a living museum, with archaeological treasures and centuries of stories beneath its cobblestones.

Mr Simpson said: “The archaeological finds are rather brilliant too: the Viking excavation at Coppergate; the Fishergate finds; the magnificent Coppergate Anglian helmet; the 42 pairs of Viking ice skates; the Gladiator burials and the Roman mosaics.

“There is just so much to the story of York.”

Lost lanes

Street and place names in York also capture his imagination, with references to places like Whip-ma-Whop-ma-Gate and Goodramgate, as well as forgotten lanes such as Mucky Pig Lane and Nowtgate.

Dave Simpson with his new book City of York, a richly illustrated guide exploring the city’s history from ancient times to today. (Image: DAVE SIMPSON)

The book also touches on York’s ghostly folklore, including hauntings linked to Guy Fawkes, Dick Turpin, and visions of Roman soldiers at the Treasurer’s House.

While sceptical of some stories, Mr Simpson said he has often felt “a strange and spooky chill” on Stonegate near Minster Gates during his visits.

He began gathering ideas for the book in 2018 but only started writing in August 2025, finishing after seven months of research and photography.

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Many photos were taken during early morning visits to York, capturing its quieter side.

Sweet temptation

The final chapter of the book features a detailed timeline highlighting York’s chocolate industry, illustrated with packets of Polos, Rolos, Smarties, and a Yorkie bar — posing the author with the “challenge” of not eating them before he finished.

City of York by Dave Simpson is available now for £15.99 from the publisher’s website, tangledworm.com.

It is expected to be stocked in bookshops soon.

Twenty British nationals, one German national who is a UK resident, and one Japanese passenger from the MV Hondius are now under observation at Arrowe Park Hospital, Wirral, after being repatriated to the UK.

They will undergo clinical assessments and testing during a 72-hour monitoring period.

Professor Robin May, chief scientific officer at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “We are pleased to confirm that all British nationals onboard the MV Hondius have now safely returned to the UK and are being supported by UKHSA and NHS medical experts at Arrowe Park, who have worked at pace to prepare for the safe arrival of passengers at the facility.

“Staff at Arrowe Park have once again demonstrated their commitment and professionalism in responding rapidly to a health emergency, and we are very grateful.

“Throughout this incident, we have worked closely with government departments including FCDO, DHSC, MHCLG and MOD alongside international partners to support the safe repatriation of British passengers.

“The safety and wellbeing of those passengers remains our priority.

“The risk remains very low for members of the general public.”

None of the passengers are currently displaying symptoms, and they are being monitored as a precaution.

Public health minister Sharon Hodgson said: “I want to thank all those who have worked to bring our British nationals home and the NHS workers now caring for them at Arrowe Park Hospital – their dedication and professionalism show our NHS at its very best.

“None of the passengers are symptomatic but we will monitor them closely over the next 72 hours at the hospital, as part of a precautionary isolation period.

“With no cases or symptoms among them and our stringent monitoring and isolation measures, the risk to the public remains extremely low.”

Passengers will be asked to isolate for up to 45 days, with ongoing support and daily contact from UKHSA health protection teams.

Regular testing and care will be provided throughout the isolation period.

The UK government facilitated the repatriation of the Japanese passenger at the request of Japanese authorities.

UKHSA has coordinated with public health teams in devolved administrations and UK overseas territories to identify and trace anyone who may have had high-risk exposure.

UKHSA will remain in close contact with these individuals for 45 days from the potential exposure.

What is hantavirus? 

Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried by rodents such as mice and rats, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), and is transmitted by their droppings and urine.

This virus can cause a range of diseases from mild, flu-like illness to severe respiratory illness.

“There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus infections,” the health experts added.

“Treatment is supportive and based on symptoms, such as hospital care and respiratory support.”

How do you catch hantavirus?

As rodents carry hantaviruses, human infection tends to occur in places where people and rodents coexist.

The UKHSA continued: “This is most commonly in rural, agricultural settings.

“The viruses can also sometimes be found in cleaning sheds, barns and holiday homes where rodents might have nested.”

People usually contract hantavirus by breathing in air contaminated with virus particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.

It can also spread through cuts, eyes, or rodent bites.

The Government agency added: “Most hantaviruses do not spread between humans, although person-to-person transmission has happened with the Andes virus strain in rare cases.”

The hantavirus currently affecting the Dutch cruise has been confirmed as the Andes strain by the WHO.

Swiss authorities have confirmed a case of #hantavirus identified in a passenger from the MV Hondius cruise ship.

He had responded to an email from the ship’s operator informing the passengers of the health event, and presented himself to a hospital in Zurich, Switzerland, and… pic.twitter.com/4mmBd7qSA4

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 6, 2026

Hantavirus symptoms

Symptoms of hantavirus infection can include:

• Fever
• Extreme fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Shortness of breath

The UK Health Security Agency said: “In some cases, people develop severe breathing difficulties requiring hospital care.

“Symptoms usually appear between 1 to 4 weeks after being exposed to the virus, but there are reports of symptoms occurring up to 8 weeks after exposure.”

All three Lanarkshire hospitals, the Motherwell Civic Centre and Newarthill village will light up in SAMH’s signature pink in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, which starts today.

Lanarkshire will shine bright in support of Scotland’s mental health this week, with hospitals and landmarks illuminated pink in partnership with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health).

All three Lanarkshire hospitals, the Motherwell Civic Centre and Newarthill village will light up in SAMH’s signature pink in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, which starts today.

Brian Reid, Information Officer for the Well-Informed Information Service, said: “We are illuminating significant landmarks throughout Lanarkshire to represent hope, understanding, and solidarity with people impacted by mental health challenges.

“The pink lighting will serve as a strong reminder that mental health is equally as important as physical health, emphasising that support is available and ensuring that no one should face mental health difficulties in isolation. Thank you to partners across Lanarkshire for supporting this.”

SAMH’s Lanarkshire services include the Well-Informed Service, which helps people find mental health support and access local wellbeing services, as well as ExPEERience Counts, a one-to-one support service led by trained peer support workers.

Carol Wallace, from Airdrie, has been supported by both services. She said: “For a long time, I struggled with depression and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope.

“It was incredibly helpful to speak with someone outside of my family about the issues I was experiencing; it felt like a safe space where I could express myself freely.

READ MORE: Central Scotland and Lothians West MSPs split among several parties

“Once the peer support started, I noticed a remarkable improvement in my mental health. I felt supported and understood, which helped me navigate my recovery journey.

“I wholeheartedly recommend SAMH’s Well-Informed Information Service and ExPEERience Counts. It really does make a difference, and they are there to help you through your recovery.

“It also helped me feel comfortable reaching out for help, which is something I had struggled with before. If you are facing similar challenges, I encourage you to seek out support.”

SAMH runs around 70 services in communities across Scotland.

The Well-Informed Information Service works in collaboration with NHS Lanarkshire and North Lanarkshire Council to help individual across North Lanarkshire to find information and access services related to mental health and wellbeing.

READ MORE: SNP’s Clare Adamson claims Motherwell & Wishaw seat for third victory in a row

Provost of North Lanarkshire Kenneth Duffy said: “We’re proud to stand with our communities in shining a light on mental health.

“Mental health touches every family, every workplace, every street. That’s why our ‘Lanarkshire Lights Up Pink’ campaign matters so much. It’s about starting conversations, breaking down stigma, and making it easier for people to reach out when they need support.

“As a council, we are committed to doing more than raising awareness. We want to create a place where people feel heard, supported and understood every day of the year.

“If this week encourages even one person to speak to a friend, contact a service, or take that first step towards help, then it has made a real difference. And that’s something we can all stand behind.”

If you want to chat about mental health or find support, please email well-informed@samh.org.uk or call 0800 073 0918.

READ MORE: The SNP’s Neil Gray claims big victory in his Airdrie constituency

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