In a class of their own – Midlothian restaurants in UK’s Asian top hundred

Midlothian curry houses Itihaas and The Radhuni are officially among the top 100 of more than 13,000 Asian restaurants in the UK.

They have been invited as finalists to the Asian Restaurant Awards to be presented in the Members’ Dining Room at the House of Commons next Thursday 30 April.

Inclusion in the ‘UK Top 100 Awards,’ organised by the Asian Catering Federation, is the latest success for the family owned and run restaurants which have won a series of major awards in well over a decade.

The event, hosted by Shadow Leader of the House of Commons and Liberal Democrats’ business spokesman Bobby Dean MP, will be presented by BBC journalist Samantha Simmonds. It will also include the Asian and Oriental Chef Award ceremony.

Managing Partner of both restaurants Habibur Khan, who will attend the ceremony at the UK Parliament, said: “This further cements Midlothian’s reputation as a culinary destination and more proof that Itihaas and The Radhuni have put the region prominently on Britain’s food map.”

Radhuni in Loanhead is Scotland’s current curry restaurant of the year according to trade magazine Curry Life. It is one of only a handful of such establishments in Scotland to have been awarded at least one AA Rosette, retained for the past five years. Itihaas is located in Dalkeith. Its previous titles include Scotland’s South Asian Restaurant of the Year.

Executive Chef and founder of both restaurants Matin Khan was named Scotland’s top curry chef and one of the leading nine in the UK in the 2025 Curry Life Awards. He said: “We are proud to be included in the top hundred of over 13,000 Asian restaurants in the UK. Itihaas and The Radhuni are once more in exalted company.”

‘We are driven by passion, family values and community spirit,” added Habibur, 29.
“Customers are our greatest strength.Their loyalty means everything to us and we will always put them first. The people who eat and socialise as our guests are the main reason we go to work each day.”

April employment law changes: All that you need to know

Staff beginning jobs next week will have employment rights from their first day – and businesses are being urged to ensure they are prepared for this.

Changes coming into force through the UK Government’s Employment Rights Act and other legislation will include employees being entitled to sick pay and paternity leave from day one of their new role with no service requirement.

These new ‘day one’ rights are a significant change in UK employment law and businesses cannot afford to overlook them. Every employer will need to be aware of the changes coming into effect and update their HR processes to reflect them.

Failure to comply could lead to costly disputes. If anyone is unsure of what they need to do, they would be wise to seek professional advice.

What to expect and when

Paternity leave: From April 6, paternity leave (but not pay) will become a ‘day one’ right, meaning employees can give notice as soon as they start work. Previously, employees had to complete 26 weeks of service before being eligible for this leave.

Ordinary parental leave rules are also being relaxed, moving from a one-year qualifying period to immediate eligibility from the first day of employment.

In addition, bereaved fathers and partners will now be entitled to take up to 52 weeks of unpaid leave if the mother or primary adopter passes away – a significant expansion of existing rights.

Statutory sick pay (SSP) is getting a major shake-up. Changes will remove the three-day waiting period, making SSP payable from day one of absence. The lower earnings limit will also be removed, allowing more employees to receive the SSP regardless of earnings (currently, employees must earn at least £125 a week to qualify).

There will also be a significant shift for redundancy processes. If companies fail to properly consult staff during large-scale redundancies, the maximum protective award for this will increase from 90 days pay to 180 days pay per employee.

From April 6, sexual harassment will become a ‘qualifying disclosure’ under whistleblowing laws, further protecting employees from unfair treatment or dismissal.

New watchdog on the way

Other changes include the creation of the Fair Work Agency (FWA), which will oversee compliance on holiday pay, statutory sick pay and the national minimum wage (the FWA will be established on April 7).

Currently, businesses found to be underpaying staff could face fines of up to 200% of the total amount underpaid.

The national minimum wage is set to rise from April 1, moving from £12.21 to £12.71 for those aged 21 and over, from £10 to £10.85 for those 18 – 20, from £7.55 to £8 for those under 18, and from £7.55 to £8 for apprentices.

Tighter enforcement is expected, so more employers could find themselves under scrutiny as checks are carried out.

As these updates come into force, the next few weeks will be crucial for employers to review contracts, policies and onboarding processes to ensure they are fully aligned with the new requirements. Taking proactive steps now will not only reduce the risk of non compliance but will also help create clearer, more supportive working practices for new and existing staff.

With employment law evolving at pace, staying informed and prepared will be essential for every organisation.

For more on the recent changes, read our Employment pay rates and entitlements update – April 2026 where you can also download our Employment Essentials guide.

Legal services must be more human in AI age – says new chair and leadership team of Anderson Strathern

Anderson Strathern has announced the appointment of Carole Tomlinson as its new chair, as the firm celebrates its 325th year in business in Scotland.

Carole will take up the role from 1 April, succeeding Fraser Geddes following the end of his three-year term.

Carole, a dual qualified solicitor in Scotland and in England and Wales, has been with the firm for more than 16 years where she has already held senior leadership positions including as Department Manager of Private Client and as a non-exec board member with Anderson Strathern Asset Management.

Carole Tomlinson, chair elect at Anderson Strathern, said: “I’m honoured to take on this role and excited about what lies ahead. It’s an interesting time for the legal sector with the rise of technology and AI and increasing demand from clients for a top-quality service.

“Law is rapidly evolving and my focus will be ensuring we continue to grow by championing innovation and maintaining strong teams with human connection at the heart of our services.

“My priority will be to ensure we continue to achieve outstanding results for our clients in the most efficient way. I’m excited about new ways of delivering that in the coming months and years.”
Murray McCall, managing partner at Anderson Strathern, said: “We are thrilled to announce Carole as chair.
“We are used to changing and evolving with the times, and although we are proud of our long and rich history, we will continue to be a firm that looks forward rather than back.

“There is no doubt we are looking at a year of economic challenges, political uncertainties and fluctuating markets, and excellent legal advice is crucial in the face of that. I am looking forward to this exciting new chapter for our firm with Carole’s expertise and talent as part of our leadership team.”

Schools Of Kung Fu Edinburgh

The Head Spa(ce), we believe true wellbeing starts at the scalp.

At The Head Spa(ce), we believe true wellbeing starts at the scalp. Combining advanced scalp care with deeply restorative rituals, our treatments are designed to support both hair health and mental relaxation, creating an experience that goes far beyond a traditional spa visit.

Our signature Head Spa treatments blend expert techniques with carefully selected products to cleanse, nourish, and rebalance the scalp. Using a combination of exfoliation, targeted oils, massage, and steam therapy, we help to address concerns such as dryness, irritation, oil imbalance, and product build-while promoting healthy hair growth.

But The Head Space is more than just results-driven care. It’s a moment to pause. In a world that rarely slows down, our space has been thoughtfully created to offer calm, comfort, and escape. From the soothing sounds to the sensory rituals, every detail is designed to help our clients fully switch off.

Each treatment is tailored to the individual, ensuring a personalised experience that meets both their physical and emotional needs. Whether clients are seeking scalp transformation, stress relief, or simply a moment of indulgence, Head Space provides a holistic approach to self-care.

McKenzie Owens Projects – 5 Year Anniversary in May

McKenzie Owens Projects are a trusted project management company working throughout the sectors with private clients, building consultancies, charities and local councils, with expertise in refurbishing & maintaining existing properties as well as fitting out new buildings. Whether it be a refurbishment of your restaurant, fitting out your new office or upgrading your home we can manage your project from Design through to completion. With no job too small we can offer a complete project management service tailored to suit any budget; with clear, transparent, communication from inception.

As we approach our 5-year anniversary in May, we’re excited to share we have recently moved into the Midlothian Innovation Centre, Roslin. This office will act as our base for business development, estimating, administration and accounts, supporting our project delivery throughout Scotland. Located at the foot of the Pentland Hills and only five minutes drive from the city bypass the centre is perfectly placed for our business to service our clients throughout Edinburgh, Lothians and beyond.

For a trusted company who make things happen please get in touch at steven@mckenzieowensprojects.co.uk we would love to add you to our growing list of repeat customers.

HeatFactors Ltd, Roslin: Gas and Mechanical Engineers/Plumbing Works

HeatFactors Ltd, Roslin: Gas and Mechanical Engineers/Plumbing Works

Based in Roslin, Midlothian, HeatFactors Ltd is a trusted provider of modern heating and plumbing services, supporting homes and businesses across Edinburgh and the Lothians. With energy efficiency and reliability at the core of everything we do, we help customers find smarter ways to heat and maintain their properties while keeping costs under control.

We specialise in innovative heating systems designed to maximise performance while reducing energy consumption. Whether upgrading an existing system or installing heating in a new build, our solutions are tailored to deliver consistent comfort and long-term savings.

Alongside our heating expertise, HeatFactors Ltd offers a comprehensive range of professional plumbing services. From full installations and system upgrades to routine maintenance and emergency repairs, our experienced team ensures every job is completed to the highest standard. By providing both heating and plumbing under one roof, we offer a seamless, efficient service our clients can rely on.
Our approach is built around understanding each customer’s specific requirements. We take the time to assess every project, delivering bespoke solutions backed by expert advice, quality workmanship, and ongoing support.

As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important, HeatFactors Ltd is committed to helping customers future-proof their properties with practical, cost-effective solutions.

Rescue Med: Raising Standards in Pre-Hospital Care and Event Safety

Rescue Med was founded in Edinburgh to help raise standards within the private pre-hospital care sector. The organisation supports individuals and businesses through high-quality education, professional development, and healthcare professional-led medical cover for events and operations. By bringing frontline clinical experience into both training and operational care, Rescue Med aims to strengthen responder capability, improve patient outcomes, and promote higher standards of care across the sector.

As a Qualsafe Awards approved training centre, Rescue Med delivers First Response Emergency Care (FREC) qualifications alongside workplace first aid training for individuals and organisations. A key aim is to reduce barriers to entry for those wanting to learn lifesaving skills. By keeping training accessible in price while ensuring it is delivered by experienced frontline paramedics, the focus remains on practical education that prepares people to respond confidently when incidents occur.

Alongside education, Rescue Med provides paramedic-led medical cover across Scotland, including support for television and film productions, events, and specialist operations. The organisation has been pre-vetted by First Option Health & Safety Consultants, giving partners confidence in the professionalism and standards of clinical provision delivered. Much of this work involves operating independently and adapting to the needs of each production or organisation, often in complex environments where reliability, discretion, and sound clinical judgement are essential.

Looking ahead, Rescue Med is exploring ways to further support safety across the city, particularly within Edinburgh’s tourism and hospitality sectors. One concept currently being developed is CityMedic, a proposed paramedic-led support service designed to assist hotels, venues, and organisations by providing access to professional clinical advice and on-call medical support when situations arise.

The intention is to help manage incidents earlier, support visitor wellbeing, and reduce unnecessary pressure on emergency services while strengthening safety within Edinburgh’s visitor economy. As the concept develops, Rescue Med is keen to connect with local businesses, hospitality groups, and city partners who share an interest in improving safety and resilience across the city.

Welcome New member – Edinburgh Remakery

Edinburgh Remakery is a social enterprise and one of Scotland’s leading social ITAD organisations, dedicated to reducing e-waste and tackling digital exclusion through repair and reuse. At the heart of its work is a social IT Asset Disposition (sITAD) programme that helps businesses responsibly dispose of surplus or old tech while maximising environmental and social impact. Devices collected through sITAD are securely data-wiped, refurbished where possible, and gifted to people and communities experiencing digital exclusion, with only non-repairable items responsibly recycled.

Alongside sITAD, Edinburgh Remakery delivers a range of impactful programmes, including a Tech Gifting Programme that provides refurbished devices to those most in need, a Tech Donation Box Programme that makes it easier for individuals to donate unwanted/old devices through accessible collection points, weekly Repair Cafés that empower people to repair and reuse tech and textile items, and creative Community Clubs that offer welcoming spaces to support mental health, wellbeing, and social connection.

Working in partnership with businesses, public bodies, and charities across the UK, Edinburgh Remakery uniquely combines environmental sustainability with social purpose. By extending the life of tech, reducing carbon emissions, and improving access to digital tools, its work not only diverts tonnes of e-waste from landfill but also creates meaningful opportunities for learning, inclusion, and community resilience. Through a people-centred approach to reuse and repair, Edinburgh Remakery delivers lasting positive change for both the planet and the communities it serves.

How footballers can prepare for life after the final whistle

Andy Gray, head of sport at Gilson Gray Financial Management

As the domestic football season moves into its final stretch, and contracts, transfers, and futures come into sharper focus, many players will find themselves at a natural point of reflection. For some, that will mean negotiating their next deal, while for others – particularly those approaching the latter stages of their careers – it raises a more fundamental question about what comes next once the final whistle blows.

A career in professional sport can be all-consuming, with training, competition, and recovery leaving limited time to think beyond the next fixture. Yet the reality is that these careers are often short and unpredictable, making forward planning not just advisable, but essential.

Protection against the unexpected should be the first priority. Injury can bring a career to an abrupt halt, especially in contact sports, so having appropriate insurance in place – including income protection and critical illness cover – can provide a vital financial safety net. Without it, athletes may suddenly find themselves without an income while still having to meet ongoing commitments such as a mortgage or family expenses.

Income volatility is another defining feature of many professional football careers. Beyond the headline salary, a substantial portion of earnings can come from performance-related bonuses. Appearance fees, goal bonuses, clean sheet incentives, and win bonuses can all create fluctuations in income from one month to the next. A strong run on the pitch may trigger a substantial payout, while a spell on the bench, an injury, or a new manger who doesn’t favour a player can quickly remove those anticipated payments.

Such unpredictability also has tax implications. A player on a weekly wage of £3,000 might suddenly receive £20,000 or £30,000 in bonuses over a season, pushing their income into a higher tax bracket. Without careful planning, the resulting tax bill can come as a shock.

This volatility makes financial discipline particularly important during periods of high earnings. Building a financial buffer can smooth out leaner spells, reduce stress when form fluctuates, and prevent the common mistake of assuming current income levels will continue indefinitely and adjusting lifestyle choices accordingly.

That reality is reflected in industry data. Research from XPro – a charity supporting former players – estimates that around 40% of professional footballers face financial difficulties within five years of retirement . The reasons vary, but often include a lack of financial education, overspending during peak years, and, in some cases, taking advice on investments that are not properly regulated such as film financing schemes or overseas property developments.

Planning for life after sport should therefore begin early. Some players develop a presence in the media through punditry or digital platforms, whereas others use the time to study alongside their careers or take early steps towards business ventures. Being proactive helps build skills and experience that support a smoother transition when retirement arrives, while keeping more options open for the future.

Ultimately, those who start building savings or investing while their earning potential is at its peak are rarely the ones who express regret later. By contrast, failing to put money aside during those years can significantly restrict choices, especially if retirement comes sooner than expected.

As the season draws to a close and attention turns to what comes next, preparation off the pitch becomes just as important as performance on it. Starting early, seeking regulated advice, and maintaining a realistic view of income can help footballers move into their next chapter with confidence, ensuring the decisions made during their playing days continue to support them long after they hang up their boots.