The Scottish National Party has appointed former MP and council leader Callum McCaig as its new chief executive, marking the third leadership change in the role within three years. McCaig takes over immediately from Carol Beattie, who stepped down due to personal health reasons following a meeting of the party's National Executive Committee on Sunday. The swift transition comes as the SNP prepares for the 2026 Holyrood election campaign.

McCaig brings significant political experience to the position, having served as leader of Aberdeen City Council, MP for Aberdeen South, and special adviser to two SNP first ministers. His background includes work in the private sector specializing in public affairs and campaigns. In his appointment statement, McCaig described the role as a "great privilege" and paid tribute to his predecessor's work while emphasizing the party's readiness for upcoming electoral challenges.

Beattie had been appointed permanently as chief executive in March, after serving in an interim capacity since October 2024 following the resignation of former Daily Record editor Murray Foote. During her tenure, she oversaw what she described as a transformation of party headquarters ahead of the 2026 election. Beattie expressed gratitude to her colleagues and reaffirmed her commitment to continuing her involvement in the independence campaign despite stepping down from the executive role.

The position has seen considerable turnover since Peter Murrell's departure in March 2023 after nearly 25 years as chief executive. SNP business convener Angela Constance welcomed McCaig's appointment, highlighting his public and private sector experience and expressing confidence in his ability to steer the organization toward electoral success. Both outgoing and incoming executives emphasized their focus on securing victory in 2026 and advancing Scotland's journey toward independence.

Police in Newry are investigating a violent altercation that occurred outside the Buttercrane Shopping Centre on Francis Street on Saturday evening. The incident, which involved a group of young males, took place at approximately 5:40 pm on October 18, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene.

Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the disturbance, including two 17-year-olds and one 16-year-old. Law enforcement officials confirmed the arrests were made on suspicion of multiple offenses, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two of the detained males, aged 16 and 17, have been released on bail pending further police inquiries, while the other 17-year-old was released unconditionally. The Police Service of Northern Ireland continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation that began at the shopping center and continued onto the adjacent street.

Authorities are particularly concerned about a male youth believed to have been assaulted during the incident who left the scene before officers arrived. Inspector Ritchie stated that police have concerns for the individual's wellbeing and are urging him to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage are asked to contact Ardmore police station quoting reference number 1120 of 18/10/25.