Loyalty doesn’t pay any more. Some banks now offer instant access savings rates far higher than traditional high-street accounts—making switching one of the easiest financial wins available.

Falkirk Council is to close its stores used by trades staff making repairs to council houses and move to a contract worth £4.4 million a year instead, councillors have agreed.

Since the summer, Falkirk has become a flashpoint in the debate over illegal immigration with protests and counter-protests over the use of Cladhan Hotel to house up to 90 males who are seeking asylum.

After hours of heavy rain, high winds are hitting the district as Storm Bram brings its full force to bear.