Daily briefing: Last orders for Central Belt pubs as latest Covid restrictions come into effect today

Good morning,
It's Friday! We hope you have a fantastic weekend ahead of you.

Unfortunately, if you're in one of these five Central Belt areas you won't be enjoying a libation in your local pub.

New restrictions introduced for Scotland’s pubs, bars and restaurants will come into effect tonight.

Belgrade or bust

Now for the good news, Scotland made history at a deserted Hampden last night, not only partaking in a penalty shoot-out for the first time, but, perhaps surprisingly, winning it too!

Mars came closer to earth than at any time in the last 17 years last night and Scotland moved as near to a major finals as they have been for almost as long.

Scotland's Covid dilemma

A simmering tension has lain at the heart of Scotland’s efforts to bounce back from the Covid lockdown in recent months - industry demands to get the economy fired up versus government requirements to ensure adequate restrictions remain in place to protect the public.

Our political editor Scott Macnab breaks down Nicola Sturgeon's Covid dilemma.

International military exercise in Scotland

These pictures show US and RAF planes refuelling while in flight over North Sea during Joint Warrior exercise in Scotland.

The exercise is the largest military exercise in Europe, bringing together the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the British Army, as well as forces from other nations. It's hard not to be impressed by the scale and skill involved.

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Stay safe and enjoy your weekend,

Sam Shedden