Sarah Toom

1 month ago | bbc.com | Sarah Toom

Mural renews town's love of 'hero' Alexander FlemingSarah ToomBBCThe mural of Sir Alexander Fleming by artist Rogue One has pride of place in the town's centreDarvel in East Ayrshire is one of those towns that can feel a little left behind by the collapse of industry. Formerly the heart of lace manufacturing in the Irvine Valley, its last factory shut in 2009.

2 months ago | bbc.com | Sarah Toom

Slap fighting: Controversial event makes Scottish debutSarah ToomGetty ImagesSlap fighting has been popular in the US since 2023A controversial new type of combat is making its debut in Scotland at the weekend but clinicians have warned of potential brain injury risks for those taking part. There is no doubt about it, slap fighting is violent. In boxing, MMA and Muay Thai there exists a defensive element, a competitive give-and-take - but not in slapping.

Feb 22, 2024 | bbc.com | Sarah Toom

Beach fence causes uproar in seaside villageSarah ToomBBC Scotland NewsBBCSome villagers have complained about the fence's visual impactThe erection of a fence across a large stretch of a popular beach has caused uproar and split the residents of the Galloway village of Sandhead. About 600 metres of chestnut paling fencing has been put up by community leaders in an attempt to "hold the line" against coastal erosion.