All lockdown rules changing in Scotland today | Sturgeon 'disgusted' by 'minority' of Rangers fans

Good morning,

Welcome to a new working work and another newsletter from The Scotsman.

Today most of mainland Scotland will be relieved as coronavirus restrictions are lowered to Level 2. It means millions of Scots will be able to hug loved ones again and socialise indoors, subject to restrictions. Here's a full list of all the lockdown rules changing in Scotland on Monday May 17 including reopening of cinemas and drinking in pubs.

Yet not all of mainland Scotland will be able to enjoy these new freedoms. Glasgow and Moray will remain in Level 3 due to virus outbreaks. The violent scenes at the weekend as Rangers secured their first Scottish Premiership trophy in a decade, which saw five police officers injured and 28 people arrested, will certainly not help the city's health situation and has been robustly denounced across the political spectrum and by this newspaper.

Nicola Sturgeon wasted no time speaking out against the disorder, saying she was "utterly disgusted" by what took place and labelling the Rangers fans who participated as a “thuggish minority” and “selfish beyond belief”.

In our opinion section today we have an article from Brian Monteith bound to ruffle a few feathers but certainly worth reading as a counter to the praise which has been given to the Glasgow residents who defended two immigrants from deportation.

Brian found it troubling lawmakers were "telling people it’s OK to break the law." He argues: "An attempt to take into custody for deportation two illegal immigrants was thwarted by politicians from the SNP and Labour giving encouragement and support to demonstrators mobbing a vehicle so it could not depart without causing injury to those blocking its way." Do you agree with Brian's view or staunchly disagree? Have your say in the comments.

Finally, getting away from politics and controversies, as part of our ongoing celebration of the end of lockdown and more than 200 years of telling Scotland’s stories, we want to bring you into the picture… literally. From today, we are launching our ‘My Local Landmark’ competition, and we want you to get involved. The winner will get £50 of high street vouchers.

Don't forget, for unlimited access to the very best Scottish journalism on a faster website with 70 per cent few ads you can subscribe to The Scotsman from just £3 per month. Join us today and subscribe.

Thanks for reading, more stories below.

Sam Shedden