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Remote restaurants awarded Michelin stars despite secluded locations

This year, Killiecrankie House and Torridon’s 1887 each received a one-star rating.

Scotland's culinary scene has been bolstered by the addition of two remote Highland restaurants to the prestigious Michelin Guide, which recognizes exceptional dining establishments.

A group of chefs standing on stage in white jackets during the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026 awards ceremony in Dublin, with presenters at the side and a large illuminated backdrop displaying event branding. Danny Young is the chef on the left and and Tom Tsappis is sixth from the left.

At a ceremony held in Dublin, Killiecrankie House near Pitlochry and 1887 in Torridon were among the 20 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland to receive a one-star rating, a testament to their outstanding cuisine.

Chefs Tom Tsappis and Danny Young, who helm the kitchens at these respective restaurants, described their establishments as being situated in isolated locations, which they acknowledged during the award presentation.

The total number of Michelin-starred restaurants in Scotland now stands at 15, with only two of these venues holding two stars, a distinction that underscores their exceptional quality.

The 2026 guide does not feature any three-star restaurants in Scotland, with all 10 three-star establishments located elsewhere in the UK and Ireland.

Among the 28 restaurants with two stars, Scotland is represented by Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, Auchterarder, and the Glenturret Lalique in Crieff, both of which have earned this prestigious rating.

This year, seven restaurants received the Michelin green star, an award that recognizes establishments leading the way in sustainable gastronomy, with three of these restaurants located in Scotland: Timberyard in Edinburgh, 1887 in Torridon, and Inver in Strachur.

Tom Tsappis' journey into the culinary world began during a stay in Japan at the age of 23, where he met his wife, Matilda, who now serves as the head sommelier at Killiecrankie House, bringing a unique perspective to the restaurant.

Matilda and Tom Tsappis standing outside Killiecrankie House. Matilda has shoulder length dark brown hair and is wearing a black dress with white spots and is holding a toddler on her hip. Tom has short brown hair and a trimmed beard. He is wearing a white chef's jacket and a navy blue apron with leather neck strap.
Matilda and Tom Tsappis renovated Killiecrankie House and opened it as a restaurant with rooms in 2021

Prior to establishing their current restaurant, the couple operated a fine-dining supper club in their London flat, showcasing Tsappis' Greek Cypriot heritage, before converting a 19th-century Perthshire manse into a "restaurant with rooms" in 2021.

The restaurant's menu offers a modern Scottish cuisine with Japanese influences, creating a distinctive dining experience.

At the Dublin ceremony, Tsappis expressed his delight, stating that his small restaurant in the Scottish Highlands was thrilled to receive the Michelin star.

Tsappis revealed that his team of five staff members, who work in both the front and back of house, learned about the Michelin star while on a trip to Japan, a country that has significantly influenced their culinary approach.

Tsappis later described the award as "completely overwhelming," highlighting the significance of this recognition.

The Michelin star holds particular importance for the restaurant, given the challenges faced by the industry in recent years, according to Tsappis, who emphasized the impact of this award on his team.

The Michelin Guide describes Killiecrankie House as a "true dining destination" with a unique personality, located in the Cairngorms National Park, offering a surprise tasting menu that combines Scottish produce with Japanese techniques.

The guide praises the restaurant's ability to enhance ingredients to "brilliant effect," creating a distinctive culinary experience.

1887, located at the Torridon Hotel near Achnasheen in Wester Ross, serves local food, including shellfish, fresh fish, and game sourced from nearby estates.

Presenters and chefs standing on stage during an award announcement at the Michelin Guide ceremonywith the names of recognised restaurants displayed on the large screen behind them. Danny Young, second from left, a bald man with white chefs jacket, stand between two presenters. Gordon Ramsey, wearing a dark suit with white t-shirt, stands at the right.
Danny Young joined Gordon Ramsey on the stage with other chefs at the Dublin event

The restaurant's £150 menu showcases the best of local produce, with a focus on ingredient-led cuisine.

A spokesperson for the Torridon noted that the Michelin star recognizes the vision and dedication of head chef Danny Young, who has an "ingredient-led philosophy" that drives the restaurant's culinary approach.

The Torridon's team extended their gratitude to all staff members, suppliers, and gardeners, acknowledging their passion and commitment to creating exceptional dining experiences.

The team's dedication was highlighted as the key to delivering outstanding cuisine, with the spokesperson emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork.

Danny Young, who also received the National Chef of the Year award in October, spoke about the unique setting of his restaurant, describing it as "stuck in the middle of nowhere."

Young emphasized the benefits of the restaurant's location, citing the stunning natural surroundings and access to incredible ingredients as key factors in its success.

The chef noted that the combination of the restaurant's location, ingredients, and staff makes it an exceptional dining destination.

Michelin inspectors praised 1887, describing its location as "truly stunning" and highlighting the exceptional quality of the local produce, which forms the basis of the restaurant's superbly balanced dishes.

Sebb's, a Glasgow-based restaurant, received the Exceptional Cocktail Award, adding to its existing Bib Gourmand recognition, which acknowledges "good food at a great price."

Mara in Aberdeen and the Clarence and Angeethi by Sagar Massey, both in Glasgow, also received Bib Gourmand awards, recognizing their commitment to serving high-quality cuisine at affordable prices.

The total number of restaurants with at least one Michelin star in the UK and Ireland now stands at 230, reflecting the diversity and excellence of the region's culinary scene.

Eleven Scottish restaurants retained their one-star status in the guide, a testament to their consistent quality and dedication to exceptional cuisine.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

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Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie.
Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023.
Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

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Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain
Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.

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