Society bulletin

A painting stolen from the Signet Library in Edinburgh has been recovered. The painting was discovered hanging on a railing outside the library at 8.15 am in the morning. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the artwork's disappearance and are eager to speak to anyone with information.

The theft happened sometime between Thursday 31 December and Tuesday 5 January at the library in Parliament Square. The library had been closed to the public during this time, however, an event was held on 1 January – a New Year’s Conversation with Richard Holloway, Harry Reid and Catherine Lockerbie discussing the impact of the Reformation with an audience of approximately 200. Upon re-opening, a member of staff noticed that a painting by the artist Tom Scott (who lived from 1854 to 1927) was missing. The watercolour is valued between £2500 and £4000.

A police spokesman said: "Obviously, we are delighted for the library that the painting has been returned. Nevertheless, we still must establish whether any criminality was involved when the painting was taken. Anyone with information that can assist with our enquiries should contact police immediately.