List of The Real MacKay episodes

The following is a list of episodes for the STV Central online video blog, The Real MacKay.

List of episodes

#	Title	Presenter	Upload date	Synopsis
1	The First Ever	John MacKay	4 June 2007	The very first edition of STV Central's video blog, featuring a lookahead to the 6 pm programme from producer Linda Grimes Douglas.
2	Running Order	John MacKay	5 June 2007	Producer Gordon McDougall debuts on the blog with a preview of tonight's 6 pm show. *N.B. This was the first episode to use the show title The Real MacKay.
3	Debi's Green Shoes	John MacKay	6 June 2007	Debi Edward talks fashion with John, plus a look back at last night's main programme.
4	A Close Shave	John MacKay	7 June 2007	Political editor Bernard Ponsonby talks about the latest decisions of the Scottish Government and Gordon Chree has an insight into the dog-eat-dog world of the newsroom.
5	Nuts and Bolts	John MacKay	8 June 2007	John shows us the right way to put make-up on. Plus, a look behind the scenes at the 1110 bulletin (including an interview with Clair Stevens - the bulletin's producer) and the last gratuitous image of the blog's first week.
6	The Bulging Mailbag	John MacKay	11 June 2007	John checks through his mailbag, introduces the studio gallery team and talks to producer Linda Grimes Douglas.
7	Interview with the Editor	John MacKay	12 June 2007	STV Central's news editor, Howard Simpson, talks to John.
8	Meeting Your Idol	John MacKay	13 June 2007	John talks to Gordon McDougall, Linda Grimes Douglas, Alison MacGregor and an excited Vicky Lee (whose getting ready to meet Jason Donovan) about tonight's programme.
9	Not quite The Real MacKay	Stephen Jardine	14 June 2007	Stephen hosts his first blog with a viewers' picture, a chat with Gordon McDougall and a peek into the dressing rooms.
10	Not The Real MacKay - Friday	Stephen Jardine	15 June 2007	Stephen continues his investigations in the dressing rooms and talks to Raman Bhardwaj about tonight's sports round-up.
11	Is there too much sport, Raman?	John MacKay	18 June 2007	John asks Raman if he thinks there is too much sport on the programme, and gets a reply—eventually. Plus, more forum questions, a chance to listen in on a conversation from Linda Grimes-Douglas and Howard Simpson brings us a correction—to a correction!
12	Newsroom Philosophy	John Mackay	19 June 2007	Can John come up with a philosophy for the STV Central newsroom before the cameraman says 'Cut'? Whilst he's thinking, Jon Kean rundowns what to expect in the 6pm programme.
13	Presenters vs Reporters	John MacKay	20 June 2007	The day-to-day lives of presenters and reporters, through the eyes of reporter Sharon Frew.
14	Vicky's Wellies	John MacKay	21 June 2007	Gordon McDougall, Jon Kean and Bernard Ponsonby look ahead to tonight's 6pm edition, with particular focus on political coverage. And by request of the forums, Vicky Lee talks about the wellies worn by Sharon Frew in yesterday's blog.
15	Not quite The Real MacKay	Stephen Jardine	22 June 2007	Stephen investigates the appearance of a new sports presenter by the name of Gerry.
16	The Ties	John MacKay	25 June 2007	John talks ties and has a chat with David Millar & Jon Kean ahead of tonight's programme.
17	Behind the Presenter's Desk	John MacKay	26 June 2007	A peek behind the studio newsdesk with Kelly-Ann Bishop and a chat with Gordon McDougall about the 6pm show.
18	At the Airport	John MacKay	27 June 2007	John reports from Glasgow International Airport ahead of a Scotland Today special as Gordon Brown becomes British Prime Minister. John is joined by political editor Bernard Ponsonby.
19	Reflections on a Difficult Programme	John MacKay	28 June 2007	The team look back at last night's special from Westminster, which technical wise, didn't go to plan.
20	Not The Real MacKay: Opening of Parliament	Stephen Jardine	29 June 2007	Stephen looks ahead to coverage of the opening of the Scottish Parliament.
21	Not The Real MacKay: Covering the big story	Stephen Jardine	2 July 2007	Gordon Chree and producer Linda Grimes Douglas talk about covering the attempted terrorist attacks at Glasgow International Airport and the aftermath.
22	Not The Real MacKay: Glasgow terror attacks	Stephen Jardine	3 July 2007	Stephen and editor Howard Simpson reflect on STV's coverage of the attempted terrorist attacks at Glasgow International Airport.
23	Not The Real MacKay: Good news and feeding the staff	Stephen Jardine	4 July 2007	Chief reporter David Cowan talks about the release of BBC Gaza correspondent Alan Johnston and Stephen discovers the staff's eating habits along with a visit to the canteen.
24	Not The Real MacKay: The Canteen Story continues	Stephen Jardine	5 July 2007	Stephen introduces Alex Leigh, a satellite truck operator. Plus, continuing on from the canteen story yesterday, there's reports of bad blood between the canteen staff and Sharyn.
25	Not The Real MacKay: Long and Busy week	Stephen Jardine	6 July 2007	It's the end of a tough week for the Scotland Today team - minus John MacKay...and producer Lesley Colquhon Banks, who makes her blog debut to talk about the 6pm show. Also on the programme, the mystery of the dressing room shower is partially solved and the war of words between Sharyn and the canteen goes on.
26	Not The Real MacKay: Studio Talk	Stephen Jardine	9 July 2007	David Millar looks ahead to the 6pm programme and Stephen reveals what apparently happens after the programme goes off air.
27	Not The Real MacKay: End of Term?	Stephen Jardine	10 July 2007	Somehow, a 'end of term' feel is persisting in the newsroom. Jon Kean helps to explain why.
28	Not The Real MacKay: Canteen Controversy concluded	Stephen Jardine	12 July 2007	Lesley Colquhon Banks looks ahead to the 6pm edition and the recent war of words ends with Sharyn buying a baked potato and beans from the canteen...and a hug.
29	Not The Real MacKay: Uphill Struggle	Stephen Jardine	13 July 2007	It's an unlucky Friday the 13th for Debi Edward. She's been sent on an assault course for tonight's And Finally.... Stephen catches up with her before and after her course.
30	Not The Real MacKay: Fair Fortnight famine	Heather Simpson	16 July 2007	Heather presents her first blog with a look at Glasgow's fair fortnight...and how it's affecting the canteen. Plus, Gordon McDougall looks ahead to tonight's programme.
31	Not The Real MacKay: Wardrobe War	Heather Simpson	17 July 2007	A brief visit to the wardrobe, followed by a closer look into alleged corruption at Rangers with Raman Bhardwaj and David Millar previews tonight's main stories.
32	Not The Real MacKay: Ginger Day	Heather Simpson	18 July 2007	Heather declares today as Ginger Day.
33	Not The Real MacKay: Aussie Rules	Heather Simpson	19 July 2007	New recruit, Nick Porter (from Adelaide, Australia) makes his blog debut and programme editor Jon Kean explains the business of embargo stories.
34	Not The Real MacKay: The Director's Cut	Heather Simpson	20 July 2007	A visit to the studio gallery and an interview with director John Mason.
35	Return of the Mack	John MacKay	23 July 2007	Three weeks holiday later and John MacKay is back. But does anyone care to notice? Well, at least Linda Grimes Douglas cares as she looks ahead to the 6pm programme.
36	The Bowels of the Building	John MacKay	24 July 2007	John visits the Transmission Control Centre - home to the Presentation Department. Also, a lookahead to the 6pm programme with producer Gordon McDougall.
37	The Face behind the Voice	John MacKay	25 July 2007	By request of the forums, STV's chief announcer Maggie Lavender makes an appearance. Plus, Stephen Jardine talks about an upcoming two-part special on Malawi and producer Gordon McDougall discusses the quiet summer months when not much news is going around.
38	Cutting it Fine	John MacKay	26 July 2007	John confronts Heather Simpson about hijacking the blog with her own 'agenda' and Debi Edward reviews her coverage on a story from the previous night.
39	The other Real MacKay	Stephen Jardine	27 July 2007	On a rainy day, Stephen discovers there's another Real MacKay in town. Plus, a visit to Edit Suite 3 where Stephen is working on two editions of the current affairs series, Inside Scotland.
40	The Craft of the Craftsman	John MacKay	30 July 2007	John investigates some restructuring to the newsroom, with help from Sharyn. Also, John talks to newsroom graphic designer Richard Groundsell and producer Lesley Colquhon Banks. Plus, what is a box of muffins doing in the newsroom?
41	On the Forum	John MacKay	31 July 2007	Producer Gordon McDougall discusses tonight's programme whilst John talks about ties and signs up to the STV website's forums...eventually.
42	Split News	John MacKay	1 August 2007	Producers David Millar in Edinburgh and Gordon Chree in Glasgow discuss the local opt-outs.
43	A Voice of Calm	John MacKay	2 August 2007	John talks to Production Assistant Laura about her role in the Scotland Today studio gallery.
44	A Tour of the Building	John MacKay	3 August 2007	A much-requested tour of the STV headquarters.
45	The On-screen Debutant and what is really Scotland's most watched news programme	John MacKay	6 August 2007	Diana Milford makes her debut as a newsreader and John (along with Gordon McMillian) disputes the claim of a rival news programme that they are the most watched news programme in Scotland.
46	An Editing Masterclass	John MacKay	7 August 2007	The blog focuses on the desktop editing skills of Entertainment correspondent Grant Lauchlan.
47	The Studio Tour	John MacKay	8 August 2007	A tour of the main studio used for Scotland Today and Scotsport.
48	The Green Shoes are replaced by Gold	John MacKay	9 August 2007	A look at the sport department's morning meeting. Plus, what is the footwear of the newsroom?
49	Not The Real MacKay: Into the Vaults	Heather Simpson	10 August 2007	Heather visits the archives and talks to archive manager John Rushton.
50	Traffic Controller	John MacKay	13 August 2007	Stuart, the man who receives pictures and feeds from outside sources, talks to John.
51	Cowcaddens Comes Down	John MacKay	14 August 2007	John makes one final visit to STV's former studios at Cowcaddens as the building is finally demolished.
52	Where's Julie?	John Mackay	15 August 2007	John visits the finance department to ask what the staff would do with £34 million. But the big question of the day is Where's Julie?
53	The Elvis Tribute	John MacKay	16 August 2007	It's 30 years to the day since the death of Elvis Presley and for the newsroom, the chance to pay tribute cannot be resisted.
54	The Future of Scottish Broadcasting	John MacKay	17 August 2007	Following the launch of an inquiry by the Scottish Government into the state of broadcasting in Scotland, John talks to STV managing director Bobby Hain.
55	The Spin Doctors	John MacKay	20 August 2007	After a week of political upheaval in Scotland, the power of the political Spin Doctors is discussed by STV Central's news editor, Howard Simpson.
56	In the Make-Up artist's Chair	John MacKay	21 August 2007	A visit to the make-up artist's chair where Morag is hard at work.
57	Inside the Sat Truck	John MacKay	22 August 2007	A look inside STV Central's satellite truck.
58	Vicky's Glasses	John MacKay	23 August 2007	The various glasses owned by Vicky Lee and the newsroom staff come to the attention of the blog.
59	Not The Real MacKay	Stephen Jardine	24 August 2007	Stephen announces the arrival of STV's first weather presenter in 10 years - Seán Batty.
60	An Old Friend	John MacKay	28 August 2007	Former presenter Shereen Nanjiani makes a special appearance to celebrate STV's 50th birthday.
61	A trip down memory lane	John MacKay	29 August 2007	A look back at the title sequences from Scotland Today over the past 35 years and an interview with STV's longest-serving employee.
62	Moustaches, Ties and Corpsing	John MacKay	30 August 2007	Former presenter Angus Simpson returns to STV as part of the station's 50th anniversary celebrations.
63	Not The Real MacKay: From the archive	Stephen Jardine	31 August 2007	An episode supposedly produced on the opening day of Scottish Television - 31 August 1957.
64	The Mothers' Interview	John MacKay	3 September 2007	A specially extended version of Bernard Ponsonby's interview with two mothers who had lost their children to drug abuse.
65	The Graphics Department	John MacKay	4 September 2007	John visits the main graphics department at STV to meet Craig Lamberton (head of graphics) and to preview the new titles for Taggart.
66	Politics - A historic day	John MacKay	5 September 2007	Having struggled to avoid talking about politics (with help from new recruit Tom Lowe and Alison MacGregor), John relents and speaks to political correspondent Michael Crow about why today is a historic day.
67	The Origin of The Real MacKay	John MacKay	6 September 2007	The Real MacKay discovers the origin of the show's title and finds out what the staff are up to in the newsroom.
68	'Not The Real MacKay: Dave Smith leaves the Building	Stephen Jardine	7 September 2007	After 25 years as a camera operator, Dave Smith retires from the station.
69	Meeting the Stars	John MacKay	10 September 2007	An insight into the celebrity interviews of Entertainment correspondent Grant Lauchlan.
70	The Collapse of the World's End murder trial	John MacKay	11 September 2007	Bernard Ponsonby discusses the collapse of the World's End murder trial in Glasgow.
71	The cameraman	John MacKay	12 September 2007	Cameraman Fraser Cleland takes the mic and John takes the camera to take a look at what a typical Scotland Today camera operator needs.
72	We are the Champions	John MacKay	13 September 2007	John is celebrating Scotland's 2-1 victory over France in the Euro 2008 qualifier...if only he can get the message through to the rest of the newsroom. Luckily, Raman is on hand with an account of last night's match and Sharyn is willing to share an appropriate ringtone with us.
73	Not The Real MacKay: Doors Open	Stephen Jardine	14 September 2007	A fast-paced tour around the Pacific Quay headquarters of STV ahead of Doors Open Day in Glasgow. Plus, a question of coat buttons.
74	A Blame for the Weekend Weather	John MacKay	17 September 2007	The weather improves after a miserable weekend. Is STV weatherman Seán Batty to blame?
75	Happy Birthday Scotsport	John MacKay	18 September 2007	A special edition of the blog to celebrate the 50th birthday of one of the longest-running sports programmes in the world, Scotsport - featuring classic goals and special guests including Arthur Montford.
76	The Edinburgh Tour	John MacKay/Stephen Jardine	19 September 2007	John hands over control of the blog to Stephen for a tour of STV's Edinburgh studios.
77	The QE2	Grant Lauchlan	20 September 2007	Grant visits the QE2 on the Glasgow quayside.
78	Not The Real MacKay: Meet the Neighbours	Stephen Jardine	21 September 2007	Stephen visits the new BBC Scotland headquarters next door to STV...and asks them to keep the noise down.
79	A National Network	John MacKay	25 September 2007	Tom Lowe, a new recruit direct from ITN, discusses the differences between the London and Glasgow newsrooms.
80	Fascinating Facts	John MacKay	26 September 2007	A pot pourri of fascinating facts from the newsroom staff.
81	Watching you, Watching us	John MacKay	27 September 2007	A look at the webcam from the roof of STV's studios in Glasgow.
82	Not The Real MacKay: The Far East	Heather Simpson	28 September 2007	Heather visits the production gallery for the Edinburgh opt-out.
83	The new STV News programme	John MacKay	1 October 2007	John talks to Gordon Macmillan (Head of News) about the new 5:30pm news programme.
84	A Tad Vulgar	John MacKay	2 October 2007	According to a newspaper, comparing viewing figures is a tad vulgar. But what else can be classified as a tad vulgar?
85	That Time of Year	John MacKay	3 October 2007	Christmas comes early as John discovers that resources co-ordinator Sharyn has organised the staff's Christmas night out already.
86	A Tribute to Dida of AC Milan	John MacKay	4 October 2007	The STV Central news team pay tribute to the antics of AC Milan goalkeeper Dida. Plus, Raman Bhardwaj talks about the recent fortunes of Scottish football.
87	The Postal Strike	John MacKay	8 October 2007	John looks into how a postal strike is affecting STV.
88	The Newsroom Ornaments	John MacKay	9 October 2007	Following on from the 'tad vulgar' episode, news PA Caroline takes a look at the ornaments of the newsroom.
89	The Lunchtime Bulletin	John MacKay	10 October 2007	Producer Lesley Colquhon Banks discusses putting together the 1:55pm bulletin.
90	The Resources Co-Ordinator	John MacKay	11 October 2007	Resources co-ordinator and regular to the blog, Sharyn Fleming, talks about her role in the newsroom.
91	Not The Real MacKay: How to get ahead in TV	Stephen Jardine	12 October 2007	Stephen casts his critical eye over the BBC again and takes a look at careers in television.
92	Not The Real MacKay: Carbon Footprint	Stephen Jardine	15 October 2007	Carbon footprints are all the rage these days. Stephen and the team talk about the issue...and Nick lets out a swear word.
93	Not The Real MacKay: Age and Ageism	Stephen Jardine	16 October 2007	Stephen and the team discuss ageism following Menzies Campbell's resignation as leader of the Liberal Democrats.
94	Not The Real MacKay: Keeping our potty mouths clean	Stephen Jardine	17 October 2007	Following Nick's swearing on episode 92, Stephen and the news team talk about the swear words not allowed on Scotland Today.
95	Not The Real MacKay: Ratings Revenge	Stephen Jardine	19 October 2007	Stephen makes a comparison between press coverage about job cuts at BBC Scotland & a small drop in SMG plc's share price. Plus, a check on the latest ratings reports.
96	Can't Be Bothered	John MacKay	22 October 2007	John returns to the show...but doesn't feel like presenting the blog.
97	Raman tackles Thierry Henry	John MacKay	23 October 2007	Sports correspondent Raman Bhardwaj and other STV reporters talk about their own embarrassing reportage moments.
98	The moments before On Air	John MacKay	24 October 2007	A closer look into what happens in the few moments before Scotland Today's lunchtime bulletin goes on air.
99	Sir Jackie Stewart	John MacKay	25 October 2007	An ten-minute version of John's interview with former world motorsport champion, Sir Jackie Stewart. *N.B. This interview was uploaded onto the stv.tv website before a shortened version was broadcast on Scotland Today that evening.
100	Not The Real MacKay: Pretty in Pink	Heather Simpson	26 October 2007	Heather reports on a Wear It Pink day in aid of Breast Cancer Research.
101	The Digital Revolution	John MacKay	29 October 2007	North Tonight's Andrea Brymer returns to Glasgow and talks to John. Plus, an interview with Digital UK's Paul Hughes ahead of the digital TV switchover.
102	The First 100	John MacKay	30 October 2007	A lookback at some of the highlights from the first 100 editions of Scotland Today's video blogs.
103	Halloween!	John MacKay	31 October 2007	Reporter Karen Greenshields shares her thoughts on covering the obligatory Halloween piece for tonight's programme.
104	A Familiar Face Departs	John MacKay	1 November 2007	Reporter Steven Godden is leaving Scotland Today for pastures new. In this edition, he talks to John about his time with STV.
105	Off to Sri Lanka	John MacKay	5 November 2007	A lookahead to extensive STV coverage as Glasgow waits to find out if the city will host the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
106	Dawn the Stylist	John MacKay	6 November 2007	It's an exciting day for John and Raman as STV's resident stylist Dawn brings in some new suits for the presenters to wear.
107	Vicky meets Trinny & Susannah	Vicky Lee	7 November 2007	Reporter Vicky Lee meets style gurus Trinny Woodall and Susannah Constantine at a book signing in Glasgow.
108	Auditions in the Wind	John MacKay	8 November 2007	On a very windy day in Glasgow, John finds out who can and who can't appear on camera in the gales.
109	Debi's blog from Sri Lanka	Debi Edward	8 November 2007	Ahead of the 2014 Commonwealth Games decision, Debi reports from Sri Lanka.
110	Commonwealth Games Decision	John MacKay	9 November 2007	The STV newsroom builds up to the announcement of the host city for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and holds an office sweepstake.
111	Not The Real MacKay: Commonwealth Games Decision - Glasgow wins!	Stephen Jardine	9 November 2007	Glasgow has won the title of host city for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and Stephen returns from presenting a live one-hour show to reflect on STV's coverage...and to hear about the BBC's effort.
112	The Commonwealth Aftermath	John MacKay	12 November 2007	A further review of STV's Commonwealth Games decision coverage including an issue regarding the office sweepstake and some cattiness between reporters Vicky Lee and Sharon Frew.
113	Subtitling	John MacKay	13 November 2007	Subtitler Bethan talks at length about the subtitling department of STV Central.
114	The Real MacKay truck	John MacKay	14 November 2007	A 'dramatic' reconstruction of a YouTube clip featuring a truck bearing the name "The Real McKay".
115	The Hello Mystery	John MacKay	15 November 2007	John investigates the rare sighting of Hello magazine in the newsroom.
116	Not The Real MacKay: We're not talking Italian	Heather Simpson	16 November 2007	Heather hears scoreline predictions from the newsroom ahead of tomorrow's Euro 2008 qualifier between Scotland and Italy. The only trouble is that she just can't resist including some sultry footage of Italian footballers.
117	Monday Moans	John MacKay	19 November 2007	Scotland lose to Italy in the Euro 2008 qualifier, Scotland Today win nothing at the BAFTA Scotland awards and a few staff make a mess at some of the desks - just some of the things John and the newsroom team are moaning about in this edition of TRM.
118	A Celebrity comes-a-calling	John MacKay	20 November 2007	John and showbiz reporter Grant Lauchlan explain why it's embarrassing to bring celebrities into the studios. Features a special guest appearance from Shayne Ward.
119	No Music Day	John MacKay	21 November 2007	Following on from an idea by a former musician, John declares that today is Non Music Day...but the editor of The Real MacKay has other ideas.
120	Watching us, Watching you	John MacKay	22 November 2007	As you can see, each edition of TRM is being listed on this page. But, who is behind it? And what about the identities of those on the STV forums? Debi Edward, Grant Lauchlan, Raman Bhardwaj, Seán Batty and the man himself, John MacKay speculate.
121	The Karen Greenshields Interview	John MacKay	26 November 2007	The first in a series of occasional in-depth interviews with STV journalists, beginning with reporter Karen Greenshields.
122	How to do a Vox Pop	John MacKay	27 November 2007	A demonstration from John about the art of vox-pops.
123	Testing the new video phone	John MacKay	28 November 2007	A new video phone has arrived in the newsroom and John has been given responsibility of testing it. But will he succeed?
124	The Sharon Frew Interview	John MacKay	29 November 2007	Reporter Sharon Frew comes under the spotlight in the second of John's profile interviews.
125	The new 1730 team start	John MacKay	3 December 2007	There's a buzz going around the newsroom today as a new team starts work on the regionwide 1730 programme due to launch next month. Plus, a chance to meet some new staff working on the main 1800 edition of Scotland Today.
126	Not The Real MacKay: 5:30 Programme Decisions	Stephen Jardine	4 December 2007	It's day 2 of preparation work for the new 5:30pm show and whilst everyone else has disappeared, Stephen & Gerry consider a few decisions.
127	The Best Artist in the Newsroon	John MacKay	6 December 2007	Inspired by the Weather Advent Calendar, the blog holds a competition to find the best newsroom artist. The challenge - to draw a picture of Santa Claus.
128	The Ken Bryson Interview	John MacKay	11 December 2007	Another of John's profile interviews. This time round, senior journalist and forward planner Ken Bryson discusses his illustrious career, working on the Daily Express, the BBC's Reporting Scotland and the like.
129	Christmas cards, a new look to the newsroom and Debi as Judy	John MacKay	12 December 2007	John gets around to opening some Christmas Cards (including a celebrity one for Grant Lauchlan). Plus, a glance at the new look newsroom and Debi Edward is asked how she feels about being compared to Judy Finnigan.
130	Alison's New Hairstyle	John MacKay	13 December 2007	Alison MacGregor has got a new haircut but is not sure what to make of it. To help her decide, John asks around the newsroom for some opinion.
131	Aussie Nick and the Cold	John MacKay	17 December 2007	It's a bitterly cold day in Glasgow and Nick (from Adelaide) is sent out to discover how an Aussie can deal with below freezing temperatures. Also on the show, editor Howard Simpson reveals the winners of this year's STV Newsroom Awards.
132	Last Minute Christmas Advice	John MacKay	18 December 2007	A guide to last minute Christmas shopping, courtesy of the newsroom staff.
133	The Favourite Christmas No1	John MacKay	19 December 2007	With the prospect of X Factor winner Leon Jackson becoming the first Scottish artist to have a Christmas No1, John goes round the offices to find out the staff's favourite festive chart topper.
134	How Many Takes?	John MacKay	20 December 2007	John signs off for Christmas with a check on how many takes Ranald Leask required to do a piece-to-camera on Hibernian F.C.'s new, slippery, training hill.
135	Not The Real MacKay: Festive Plans	Stephen Jardine	21 December 2007	The final blog of the year (and Stephen's last blog as a presenter) features seasons greetings from the newsroom and a look at the staff's plans for Christmas.
136	A New Year and another New Face	John MacKay	3 January 2008	The first Real MacKay episode of 2008. In this episode, new reporter Nicol Nicolson makes his debut and John takes a look at the state of the newsroom post-Christmas.
137	Tight deadlines and Winter bites	John MacKay	4 January 2008	Reporter Laura Miller talks about her tough day in the newsroom and weatherman Seán Batty reports on the prospect of snow.
138	Kenny Richey's Release	John MacKay	7 January 2008	Today, the man known as the Death Row Scot, Kenny Richey, is expected to be released from jail. Programme producer Linda Grimes Douglas looks ahead to the extensive live coverage on the story for tonight's programme.
139	A Review of the Kenny Richey Release	John MacKay	8 January 2008	So, how did last night's Kenny Richey coverage go? According to producer Linda Grimes Douglas, not as originally hoped for...
140	A Strong Wind Blows	John MacKay	9 January 2008	It's been a very busy 24 hours for weatherman Seán Batty after overnight gales caused widespread disruption across Scotland. Here, he talks to John about the cause of the storms and how the River Clyde nearly burst its banks.
141	It's great when it works	John MacKay	10 January 2008	Producer Gordon McDougall talks about a successful programme from last night which featured live coverage of Kenny Richey's return to Scotland and dramatic pictures of the weather across the country.
142	White Not MacKay	Louise White	11 January 2008	Louise White launches a new Friday edition of the Scotland Today video blog. The first programme concentrates on what would happen if STV had a fire and an exclusive umbrella competition.
143	Those special messages	John MacKay	14 January 2008	The week on the blog begins with a departure - Morag, the make-up artist is leaving and John is eager to send her a farewell card. But what's the best message to write?
144	The failure of the Squinty Bridge and the new News at Ten	John MacKay	15 January 2008	John reports on a news story that happened right on their doorstep - the failure of a connection cable on Glasgow's Clyde Arc which has led to its closure. Also, reaction from the newsroom about the second revival of News at Ten.
145	The Real MacKay goes Global!	John MacKay	16 January 2008	John starts an experiment to get as many international viewers as possible to watch the blog. Also, newsroom greetings to relatives from around the world and an update on Heather Simpson's pregnancy.
146	News on the new programme	John MacKay	17 January 2008	In another packed programme, the name of the new 5:30pm programme is finally announced, Seán Batty talks about the building of a new STV Weather Centre and an update on the Global experiment, along with more international greetings from the newsroom.
147	White Not MacKay	Louise White	18 January 2008	The moment many a STV video blog fan has awaited finally arrives as Louise and Seán Batty announce the winner of last week's brolly competition.
148	The 5:30 is Unveiled! And more Pins for the map	John MacKay	21 January 2008	The new look for the new regional magazine programme, The Five Thirty Show, is finally unveiled. John talks to Stephen Jardine and Debi Edward with just a week to go until the launch. Plus, a further update on The Real MacKay Goes Global.
149	Viewers' Videos and meet Natasha from the 5:30 show	John MacKay	22 January 2008	John takes a look into the importance of viewers' videos in modern newsgathering. Also, the buildup to The Five Thirty Show continues with new girl Natasha Stillwell's debut and an update on the Global experiment.
150	Prizes on Offer!	John MacKay	23 January 2008	Vicky Lee talks about The Five Thirty Show, John launches a competition as part of his Global experiment and producer Gordon McDougall looks ahead to the 6pm show.
151	The Director's Cut of The Five Thirty Show	John MacKay	24 January 2008	Four days to go until its launch and studio director John Mason talks about his role on The Five Thirty Show. Also on the blog, there's new territory to pinpoint as part of The Real MacKay Goes Global.
152	White Not MacKay	Louise White	25 January 2008	The Burns Night edition of the blog featuring a much requested clip involving Angus Simpson and Kirsty Young and an insight into Scottish TV's presenter idents from 2003.
153	The Big Day for the Five Thirty Show	John MacKay	28 January 2008	Launch day for The Five Thirty Show is finally here. Hayley Valentine and Lesley Colquhon Banks, two of the programme producers, talk about what to expect in the first programme. And in the Global update, two pins from the USA.
154	How did 'The Five Thirty Show' go?	John MacKay	29 January 2008	STV Central's news editor Howard Simpson talks about last night's first 5:30 show. Plus, details on a new shortcode number for sending photos and videos to the programme.
155	The Full Pomp of the Pinning Ceremony	John MacKay	30 January 2008	Continuing the Global experiment, John brings some pomp and gravitas to the pinning ceremony. Also, a ratings check-up.
156	The Mike Edwards Interview	John MacKay	31 January 2008	John returns to his series of in-depth profile interviews. Coming under the spotlight this time, senior news reporter Mike Edwards.
157	White Not MacKay	Louise White	1 February 2008	On this week's Friday show, cameraman Fraser Cleland has an insight into the Squinty Bridge, web administrator John Kilbride talks about Scotland Yesterday and Louise brings you the chance to win an STV football.
158	Winter Bugs	John MacKay	4 February 2008	John talks to the staff affected by a week of winter illness in the newsroom.
159	A Newsroom Snapshot	John MacKay	5 February 2008	John gives a commentary on the scene in the newsroom at lunchtime.
160	An Eventful Day of Politics	John MacKay	6 February 2008	The Scottish First Minister, Alex Salmond has threatened to resign from his post unless the Parliament's budget is passed in a vote tonight. And the Electoral Commission looks set to report on the donations row involving Wendy Alexander, leader of the Scottish Labour Party. Producer Linda Grimes Douglas looks ahead to Scotland Today coverage on these and other stories.
161	The Real MacKay reaches South America!	John MacKay	7 February 2008	The Global experiment continues with correspondence from São Paulo, Brazil and Adelaide, Australia. Plus, a chance to catch up with weatherman Seán Batty.
162	White Not MacKay	Louise White	8 February 2008	In Louise's Friday blog tonight, a behind-the-scenes insight of Scotlandontv.tv and Raman Bhardwaj draws the winner of the STV football competition.
163	The Newsroom Netherworld	John MacKay	11 February 2008	A look at what lies beneath the desks in the newsroom, with a few surprising discoveries in store.
164	Career Profile of a Graphic Artist	John MacKay	12 February 2008	Continuing the occasional series of in-depth interviews, John talks to Richard Groundsell, a newsroom graphic artist.
165	Friends of The Real MacKay	John MacKay	13 February 2008	John Kilbride announces the launch of a new Facebook group and Blogspot for the show. Plus, the Global experiment hits French territory as Paris is added to the map.
166	Going On Air	John MacKay	14 February 2008	A look at the behind-the-scenes build up ahead of the lunchtime bulletin.
167	Fashion Week	John MacKay	15 February 2008	Vicky Lee is back from London Fashion Week, where she's been on assignment for The Five Thirty Show. She tells John her informed opinion about the fashions in the newsroom.
168	The Real MacKay with guest presenter Aussie Nick	Nick Porter	18 February 2008	It's Aussie Nick's last week in the newsroom and to mark the occasion, John has relinquished presentation control of the blog. Today's talking point - holiday destinations.
169	Flying High to On-Air Time	John MacKay	19 February 2008	An exposure into the tension of the one hour before Scotland Today's main 6pm edition goes to air reveals what the newsroom staff consider important...
170	Why do we only speak English?	John MacKay	20 February 2008	As MSPs in the Scottish Parliament consider why the public are poor at speaking foreign languages, John hears what the newsroom staff make of the issue.
171	The Career of a Cameraman	John MacKay	21 February 2008	Another of John's in-depth profile interviews. This time, cameraman Steve Kydd talks about a 27-year career that has led him from Take The High Road, Now You See It and the like to Scotland Today, via filming Colonel Gaddafi.
172	White Not MacKay	Louise White	22 February 2008	Louise returns with her Friday night edition of the blog. This week, Louise answers some of the forum's questions and looks back at coverage of the 1988 Lockerbie disaster (produced for STV by Border Television). Plus, a 2006 report from John MacKay looking ahead to what STV's new headquarters had to offer.
173	A Breaking Story	John MacKay	25 February 2008	From the first wire reports to a live newsroom update from Raman Bhardwaj, John brings us an insight into covering a breaking news story.
174	Politician's Expenses	John MacKay	26 February 2008	Political editor Bernard Ponsonby discusses the wealth of stories concerning the expenses of politicians.
175	White Not MacKay	Louise White	27 February 2008	An extra midweek edition of Louise's spin-off blog, which today focuses on the fashions of the newsroom following criticism of tracksuits and such clothing from MSP Christopher Harvie.
176	Working with other TV Companies	John MacKay	28 February 2008	Newsgathering editor Jon Kean talks about the importance of good working relationships with other television stations.
177	White Not MacKay	Louise White	29 February 2008	A special programme providing an in-depth lookback at how STV Central covered the 2007 terrorist attack at Glasgow International Airport. Louise is joined by reporter Gordon Chree.
178	It's the Future	John MacKay	3 March 2008	New technology is the theme today as News Operations Manager, Bob Rae, introduces the BGAN, a system allowing reporters to edit packages from location and send them back to base via broadband.
179	The New Jackets	John MacKay	4 March 2008	An update on Little John the snowman and a special launch parade of the new STV jackets as displayed by Mike Edwards, Seán Batty, Joanne Bonnar and Sharon Frew. News editor Howard Simpson voices his opinion on the new fashions.
180	Getting Started	John MacKay	5 March 2008	Following the morning meeting, John finds out which stories the reporters have been allocated. Plus, a further update on Little John.
181	Raman's Return	John MacKay	6 March 2008	Raman Bhardwaj is back from Barcelona to talk about the BGAN system and tacky presents, as well as adding a pin to The Real MacKay Goes Global map. Plus, news on Laura Miller, whose won an award for her student documentary on the 2004 Asian tsunami.
182	White Not MacKay	Louise White	7 March 2008	In tonight's Friday edition, Tom Lowe talks about the new Citizen Reporter scheme and there's a chance to see a special long promo for Scotland Today from 1999.
183	Scotland is the Centre of the Universe	John MacKay	10 March 2008	John questions an accusation from a colleague that his global map is politically incorrect.
184	Differences of Opinion	John MacKay	11 March 2008	Yesterday saw much debate as to which of three stories would lead Scotland Today at 6pm. Tom Lowe, Jon Kean and Raman Bhardwaj state their cases.
185	The Real MacKay in India	John MacKay	12 March 2008	John devotes the blog to STV forumer, BBC World in Dubai, who, whilst on a trip to India, made great efforts to spread the word about The Real MacKay as part of the blog's Global experiment.
186	Busy and Brief	John MacKay	13 March 2008	A heavy workload and staff' sickness means a curtailed edition of TRM - but there's enough time to add a few pins to the Global map.
187	'White Not MacKay: The Weather Centre	Louise White	14 March 2008	Louise takes a look behind the scenes at the STV Weather Centre and interviews Seán Batty who produces and presents the weather forecasts for STV.
188	The ITV News Awards	John MacKay	17 March 2008	Head of News, Gordon McMillan, reports back on success for the STV Central newsroom at the ITV News Awards. And John puts some more additions onto the "Tat Shelf".
189	The Mystery of The Honking Sock	John MacKay	18 March 2008	A glorious spring day at Pacific Quay is somewhat spoiled by the appearance of a sock on one of the chairs of the newsroom. John investigates, accompanied by Mike Edwards and Clair Stevens.
190	The investigation into the Mystery of the Honking Socks	John MacKay	19 March 2008	John gets tough as the socks' mystery continues with a few interrogations, during which a chief suspect is uncovered.
191	More International Connections	John MacKay	20 March 2008	In a packed pre-Easter edition, there's more on the Honking Sock (including Nicol Nicolson's explanation as to why he wasn't interrogated), a pin for the Channel Islands on the Global map and a look into the connections between Scotland Today and CNN, via interviews with Tom Lowe and Gordon McDougall.
192	Karen sambas as The Real MacKay hits Brazil!	John MacKay	25 March 2008	Before the Honking Socks resurface, The Real MacKay returns with Robyn from Boston getting her pin added to the map. Plus, forum contributor BBC World extends his Global efforts to Brazil. And to celebrate, Karen Greenshields does a samba.
193	What's in a Name?	John MacKay	26 March 2008	Following on from Natasha Stillwell's Five Thirty Show feature on how lucky certain names are, John asks the newsroom how they feel about their own names.
194	Lessons in Life - Buttons	John MacKay	27 March 2008	Sharyn has a problem - she doesn't know what to do with the spare buttons in her coat. John aims to find the answer in the first (and only) episode of a new feature series for the blog about lessons in life.
195	White Not MacKay - Take 22	Louise White	28 March 2008	Another Friday night edition of the blog, featuring some classic bloopers...well, at least once Louise gets the introduction out of the way.
196	Sarah's Back	John MacKay	31 March 2008	Two years after her departure, Sarah Heaney returns to STV and talks to John about what she's been up to as well as looking back at her Scotland Today years.
197	The Fluorescent Kilt	John MacKay	1 April 2008	After much demand from the forums and weatherman Seán Batty, John bows to pressure and tries the fluorescent kilt worn by Seán on The Five Thirty Show last week. Luckily for him, it's April Fool's Day...
198	The Newsgathering Editor	John MacKay	2 April 2008	Another in-depth interview - this time, featuring Newsgathering editor Jon Kean.
199	The News Operations Manager	John MacKay	3 April 2008	The latest in John's in-depth profile interviews involves Bob Rae, News Operations Manager for STV Central. He talks about his times at Grampian Television and BBC Scotland as well as about what his job entails.
200	White Not MacKay	Louise White	4 April 2008	On her birthday, Louise White treats White Not MacKay viewers to clips from an edition of Scotland Today produced for the long-defunct Sky Scottish as well as a lookback at Scotsport's 30th birthday celebrations from 1987. Plus, an appearance from archive librarian John McVie.
201	White Not MacKay: We're a Weird Bunch	Louise White	9 April 2008	A midweek special of White Not MacKay. Tonight, Louise talks superstitions with Seán Batty, Kelly-Ann Bishop, Rachel McTavish and cameraman Fraser.
202	White Not MacKay	Louise White	10 April 2008	Louise White and entertainment correspondent Grant Lauchlan meet up outside the Pacific Quay studios to talk about celebrity interviews.
203	White Not MacKay - The Master	Louise White	11 April 2008	It's holes-in-one, uncontrollable laughter and double entendres abound as Louise holds her own golf tournament as a tribute to the US Masters in Augusta. STV Central news staff battle it out for the grand prize of six month-old cans of beer.
204	White Not MacKay - A Good Wife	Louise White	16 April 2008	A follow up to John's blog on buttons in which Louise and P.A. Caroline teach Sharyn on how to be a good housewife.
205	White Not MacKay - North meets South	Louise White	17 April 2008	After a successful venture into the Glasweigan enemy lines (as seen on Northern Exposure a few weeks ago), Chris Harvey returns to Pacific Quay for an appearance on The Five Thirty Show...and for an appearance on White Not MacKay, of course.
206	White Not MacKay	Louise White	21 April 2008	Owing to earlier technical problems, STV Central presents a double bill of video blogs to start the week. First off, Louise White presents a delayed Friday edition with a venture into the sound booth of the Scotland Today/Five Thirty Show studio gallery.
207	Changes	John MacKay	21 April 2008	The Mack is back and so is the daily edition of the blog, which today features more pins for the Global map, a change in newsroom furniture and a new hairdo for Kirstin.
208	The Scotland Today adverts	John MacKay	22 April 2008	More administrative work for the Global experiment and Raman Bhardwaj and Seán Batty talk about the new press adverts for Scotland Today. Meanwhile, Debi Edward considers the link between the presenters and frogs...at risk of annoying Louise.
209	Strange Sightings in Scotland	John MacKay	23 April 2008	A day after the newspaper adverts, the billboards go up for Scotland Today. John is joined by weatherman Seán Batty.
210	No Nonsense in our Newsroom	John MacKay	24 April 2008	The blog continues to attract international viewers as John adds pins for viewers in Belgium and New Zealand. Also on the blog, proof (if proof were needed) that unlike Reporting Scotland, there's no room for juvenile behaviour in the Scotland Today newsroom.
211	White Not MacKay - When Harry met Louise	Louise White	25 April 2008	Louise dedicates today's programme to a good friend of hers named Harry. Also, the virtues of autocue as demonstrated by satellite truck operator Alex Leigh.
212	Rachel's debut on The Five Thirty Show	John MacKay	28 April 2008	John meets freelance presenter Rachel McTavish, who is making her debut on The Five Thirty Show tonight alongside Stephen Jardine. She also talks about her times at the now defunct ITV News Channel.
213	Producing The Five Thirty Show	John MacKay	29 April 2008	John continues to keep track on the temporary change in personnel for The Five Thirty Show - involving Scotland Today producer Linda Grimes Douglas, whose moving over to TFTS for a stint and Rachel McTavish, who considers how her first night went.
214	The Thunderstorms	John MacKay	30 April 2008	On a miserable morning at Pacific Quay, John intends to introduce pictures of a dramatic thunderstorm at the STV Central studios from the roof...but finds the weather off putting. Plus, word from Italy that TRM has reached Florence.
215	The Newsroom Wish Fairy	John MacKay/Kirstin Anderson	1 May 2008	As inspired by Vicky Lee's goodwill on The Five Thirty Show last night, John hands over the blog to newsroom assistant Kirstin Anderson, who for today, has become the "Newsroom Wish Fairy" - fairy wings and all!
216	Wearing a hoody on a sunny day	John MacKay	6 May 2008	The glorious weather encourages the news team to wear appropriate attire...except for one - 'Traffic Controller' James is wearing a hoody. John finds out why.
217	To dye or not to dye	John MacKay/Karen Greenshields	7 May 2008	Karen Greenshields is given responsibility of the blog by John for today. And once again, the topic of hair colour is on the agenda.
218	Football Night	John MacKay	8 May 2008	Thursday night is footy night for the lads in the newsroom and as we discover in tonight's TRM, Inverness Caley Thistle fan Mike Edwards is very keen on his boyhood heroes and vintage match shirts.
219	White Not MacKay - Move over boys!	Louise White	9 May 2008	As you may have seen on The Real MacKay last night, the lads in the newsroom are keen on their footy. But how do the opposite sex fare? Step forward Louise's seven-a-side girls team.
220	Doing your own make up	John MacKay	12 May 2008	As the Scottish Daily Mail alleges that Reporting Scotland presenter David Robertson is bemoaning having to do his own make up, John goes around the newsroom for some make-up tips.
221	The Newsroom Exodus to Manchester	John MacKay	13 May 2008	At this moment, most of the Scotland Today team are making their way to Manchester for tomorrow night's UEFA Cup Final between Rangers and Zenit St Petersburg. John reports from an increasingly deserted newsroom in Glasgow.
222	From Manchester	John MacKay	14 May 2008	John presents a UEFA Cup final special from a bustling Albert Square in the heart of Manchester City Centre.
223	No Rest for the Busy	John MacKay	15 May 2008	Rangers have lost out on the UEFA Cup with their fans causing trouble in Manchester and former Celtic player/manager Tommy Burns has died. John reflects on 24 hours to forget for football in Glasgow.
224	The Stampede for Snacks	John MacKay	16 May 2008	An extra Friday blog from John MacKay sees the canteen closed because of STV owners SMG plc's annual general meeting. Some snacks have been laid on for the staff elsewhere at the studios - but the big question is how long have they lasted?
225	Newsroom Heroes	John MacKay	19 May 2008	John and the team talk about the idols of the newsroom staff.
226	Tommy Burns's Funeral	John MacKay	20 May 2008	A solemn day in the newsroom as the funeral of Celtic legend Tommy Burns takes place. Newsgathering editor Tom Lowe outlines the joint operation undertaken by STV, BBC Scotland and Sky News to cover the funeral.
227	Bright Jacket Day	John MacKay	21 May 2008	John dons a fluorescent jacket (but not the matching kilt!) to celebrate Bright Jacket Day as a number of newsroom staff (or at least three of them) turn up with bright jackets.
228	A Video Blog Sensation	John MacKay	22 May 2008	The Real MacKay's YouTube channel has become the number 1 Guru channel in the UK (15th internationally and 11th most viewed out of all channels in the UK). John shares the glory with previous guest presenters Kirstin Anderson, Karen Greenshields and Grant Lauchlan.
229	White Not MacKay - Vote yes!	Louise White	23 May 2008	The latest weekend edition of WNM features a brief round-up of questions from the forums before Louise launches a big interactive debate on the subject of a scarf. Watch and find out why...
230	The end of the football season	John MacKay	27 May 2008	The Scottish football season is at an end, and for John and Raman Bhardwaj, the lack of Scottish matches over the summer is somewhat depressing.
231	The First Single You Bought	John MacKay	28 May 2008	It's a known fact - the first single that John MacKay ever bought was Metal Guru by T.Rex. But when asked the question What was the first single you bought?, will the Scotland Today team reply?
232	Teamwork Makes The Dreamwork	John MacKay	29 May 2008	A sign of eternal wisdom has appeared in the newsroom - Teamwork Makes The Dreamwork. But is it proving inspirational enough for the news team?
233	White Not MacKay - I tried	Louise White	30 May 2008	Louise takes a look back at the 1991 ITV franchise auction when Scottish Television retained their broadcast license unopposed with a bid of just £2,000. Plus, Vicky Lee and Linda Grimes Douglas are left on their own as the rest of the Five Thirty Show team head to Edinburgh for a special programme.
234	The Newsroom Balloon	John MacKay	2 June 2008	A special undercover investigation into the attraction between the Scotland Today team and a balloon in the newsroom.
235	Nervous Anticipation	John MacKay	3 June 2008	Tomorrow will be a year to the day since the first edition of The Real MacKay. As for tonight, John has some nervous anticipation about the forthcoming anniversary.
236	The First Anniversary	John MacKay	4 June 2008	The Scotland Today video blog celebrates its first year, complete with card, cake, highlights compilation...and fire extinguisher.
237	European Championship Stake	John MacKay	5 June 2008	Sharyn has organised a sweepstake in the newsroom ahead of the start of Euro 2008 this weekend. But just as there was with the 2014 Commonwealth Games sweepstake, there's some fervour over the running of the sweep. John (Romania) investigates.
238	White Not MacKay - When Lulu met Tyka	Louise White	6 June 2008	The managing director of SMG Productions, Elizabeth Partyka answers the questions of Louise and STV's online forumers for a special edition of the weekend blog.
239	Sophisticated Things Amuse Simple Minds	John MacKay	9 June 2008	Action girl Natasha Stillwell brings a Segway PT into the Scotland Today newsroom. So, when the team get to hear about it...well, you'll get the idea.
240	More on The Real MacKay Global Map	John MacKay	10 June 2008	John brings us an update on what new international viewers have got in touch since the TRM Global Map was last featured.
241	White Not MacKay: The Tufty Club	Louise White	11 June 2008	A midweek special of White Not MacKay - tonight, the question of Seán Batty and Nicol Nicolson's haircuts. Louise lets the viewers decide, along with some help from Kirstin Anderson.
242	Not The Real MacKay: Childhood Ambitions	Gordon Chree	12 June 2008	Not The Real MacKay returns with Gordon Chree at the helm. The topic - what did the Scotland Today staff want to do whilst they were growing up?
243	White Not MacKay: Where there's a Will, there's a way	Louise White	13 June 2008	The weekend edition of the blog focuses on Philadelphia-born Will Springer, STV News' new online producer.
244	Euro 2008 and a new bulletin	John MacKay	16 June 2008	Senior reporter Mike Edwards looks back on his time in Switzerland during Euro 2008 and John announces a new 90-second update on weekdays at 3pm.
245	Euro 2008 Update	John MacKay	17 June 2008	TRM's Euro 2008 coverage continues with a sweepstake update ahead of tonight's final round of Group C matches.
246	The fly away satellite	John MacKay	18 June 2008	Always keen to let TRM viewers know about new technical advances in the newsroom, John introduces the fly away satellite - a new piece of equipment which allows Scotland Today to produce more live outside broadcasts. What John isn't so keen on is talking about Romania's exit in Euro 2008...
247	Meeting Keira and Sienna on The Red Carpet	John MacKay	19 June 2008	It was a big night for Grant Lauchlan last night as he interviewed Keira Knightley (and her mum) and Sienna Miller at the Edinburgh International Film Festival. Today, the newsroom staff want to know what Knightley and Miller were like - amongst them is John MacKay.
248	White Not MacKay: Sean discusses sheep	Louise White	20 June 2008	In an earlier than normal Friday edition, birthday girl Vicky Lee talks cakes and Seán Batty talks sheep shearing.
249	New Members of the News Team	John MacKay	23 June 2008	A new week on the blog and two new staff camera operators join the Scotland Today team. Ross Leary and Jennifer Wilson talk to John.
250	The Five Thirty Show reaches 100 editions	John MacKay	24 June 2008	The Five Thirty Show reaches its 100th programme tonight. John joins in the celebrations with Stephen, Caroline, Lesley, Vicky, Gerry and Seán.
251	The Green Room	John MacKay	25 June 2008	TRM takes viewers into the green room of The Five Thirty Show where Vicky, Lesley and Seán are considering how the room could be improved.
252	Preparations for the Party	John MacKay	26 June 2008	Not much is known about the monthly parties at the STV Group (formerly SMG) headquarters for which each department takes in turn to organise and prepare. This month, a Summer Soiree is being held by the newsroom, with Seán Batty and Kirstin Anderson in charge.
253	An Outsider's View		30 June 2008	Scott, a work experience student at STV, presents an outsider's commentary on life in the Scotland Today newsroom.
254	Catch Up	John MacKay	1 July 2008	John brings viewers some news from the newsroom - find out who backed the champions (Spain) in the Euro 2008 sweep, hear how the Summer Soiree turned out and meet new production journalist Cara Berkley.
255	If You Go Down To The Mailroom Today You're In For a Big Surprise	John MacKay	2 July 2008	A brief visit to the postroom reveals something very unusual has arrived at the STV studios. John, postman Bryan and cameraman Fraser get to the heart of the matter.
256	The Real MacKay Rises On Another Part of the Global Map	John MacKay	3 July 2008	More from the International experiment and as it transpires, the blog has reached Japan.
257	Interesting Times	John MacKay	4 July 2008	It's the end of a momentous week in Scottish politics - Wendy Alexander resigned as leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Nicol Stephen stepped down from his post as Scottish Liberal Democrats leader and the resignation of Glasgow East MP David Marshall has triggered a by-election - one that some commentators say has the potential to force the Prime Minister out of office. Political editor Bernard Ponsonby comments on the past week with John.
258	An insight into how the blog works	John MacKay	7 July 2008	John roams the newsroom to show us how to produce a blog of four and a half minutes length with minimum effort.
259	Technical Difficulties	John Mackay	8 July 2008	John talks about last night's fire alarm at BBC Scotland's studios next door which kept Reporting Scotland off air for 20 minutes - only for the blog to be interrupted by...
260	Be Prepared	John MacKay	9 July 2008	A lesson in the importance of preparation - as demonstrated by Sharon Frew's shoe collection.
261	For Foodies	John MacKay	10 July 2008	Gallery PA Laura Trimble has been producing, directing and editing a unique Recipe of the Week series for The Five Thirty Show. In this edition of TRM, she talks at length about the thinking and the production behind the series.
262	I went to school with him	John MacKay	11 July 2008	It's been revealed that Charlotte in the newsroom went to school with one of Benny Andersson's sons. Can anyone else better that? And just who is holding the mic for John?
263	Normal service resumes	John MacKay	28 July 2008	17 days after the last episode and a quiet forum leaves John to try and kickstart regular service on TRM with a forum message, an aborted pinning ceremony and a lookahead to future editions of TRM.
264	Ring Tones	John MacKay	29 July 2008	What links Skins with The Muppet Show? They're just two of the ringtones amongst the Scotland Today staff. John tours the newsroom to hear some mobile tunes and ring-rings.
265	Digital Future	John MacKay	30 July 2008	The chief executive of STV Group plc, Rob Woodward, outlines the company's plans to establish a new digital channel delivering new and exclusive output, archive material and possible local opt-out services.
266	Back to the Grind	John MacKay	31 July 2008	Raman returns to his usual trade of sports journalism as the new football season opens with a 0-0 draw between Rangers and Kaunas in a UEFA Champions League qualifier. And before John talks to him about getting back into business, a pinning ceremony is also in order.
267	White Not MacKay: It's been a while	Louise White	1 August 2008	John MacKay's 17-day long absence from The Real MacKay may have been lengthy but it doesn't quite compare to Louise White's 41 days without presenting White Not MacKay. And now she's back to talk Americanisms with Will Springer.
268	The Sun Shone on Seán	John MacKay	4 August 2008	A clear day at Pacific Quay encourages John to bring out the shades and find out what the forecast for the rest of the summer holds from Seán Batty.
269	Exam Results	John MacKay	5 August 2008	On the day thousands of Scottish school pupils receive exam results, the Scotland Today team present their takes on the nerves and emotions that surround the opening of the envelope.
270	Sport or News?	John MacKay	6 August 2008	Rangers have crashed out of the UEFA Champions League and European football after a second round qualifying upset to the hands of FBK Kaunas. This leaves the Scotland Today newsroom with a problem - should it be covered as a sports story or does it warrant a place within the main regional news?
271	Filming a promo for the new STV video player	John MacKay	7 August 2008	As the team behind stv.tv prepares to push its new video player into full service, John films a promo for the website. But why is John repeating the same line again and again? All shall be revealed.
272	White Not MacKay: Here's looking at you, kid	Louise White	15 August 2008	How does Scotland Today cameraman Ross Leary go about his day job? More to the point, can Louise White hack it as a camerawoman?
273	How much?	John MacKay	18 August 2008	John MacKay returns from a week's holiday with news of two American pins for the Global map and a disturbing find on eBay, made even more disturbing by how much the item went for.
274	The Newsroom Schism	John MacKay	19 August 2008	John finds himself reporting on a private group of newsroom staff known as The Baked Potato Club, which is causing more than enough trouble within the Scotland Today team.
275	Sharing the Misery	John MacKay	20 August 2008	A look at the reality of the miserable August weather in Pacific Quay and in spite of the crowded space on the map, pins for the Isle of Man and the Western Isles.
276	The National Anthem debate	John MacKay	21 August 2008	Whilst the Tartan Army booed the playing of God Save The Queen at last night's Scotland v Northern Ireland friendly at Hampden, the national anthem was well observed when Olympic champion Chris Hoy received his gold medals in Beijing recently. All of which has led to a newsroom debate on the issue - involving amongst others, Joanne Bonnar, Raman Bhardwaj and UTV Live's Neil Brittain.
277	Newsroom chat	John MacKay	22 August 2008	Another disappearing act from Louise White means an extra TRM episode for Friday, which today features what passes for a typical chat in the Scotland Today newsroom.
278	The new video player at stv.tv/video	John MacKay	26 August 2008	As the official launch of STV's new video website approaches, online producer Will Springer demonstrates its pieste resistance - the video player.
279	The Newsroom Schism II: Response of the Kirstin	John MacKay	27 August 2008	The story of The Baked Potato Club continues - will Seán and Kirstin bring themselves to explain their actions?
280	Not The Real MacKay: The Newsroom Schism III - The Baked Potato Ballot	Seán Batty	28 August 2008	In an attempt to provide a balanced presentation on the issue of The Baked Potato Club, Seán Batty presents a Not The Real MacKay special with coverage of a secret ballot to see who will be allowed to join the controversial society.
281	White Not MacKay: Frocks, fireworks and flutes	Louise White	29 August 2008	This weekend, STV will produce OB coverage of the Bank of Scotland Fireworks Concert 2008 - the finale of this year's Edinburgh International Festival. Louise White presents the programme on Sunday night with Henry Eagles in charge as executive producer. Here, he and production manager Katie outline how the station will cover the event.
282	A Long Day for Raman	John MacKay	1 September 2008	With the football transfer window closing at midnight tonight, Raman Bhardwaj anticipates one of the busiest days of the year in sports journalism.
283	Kelly-Ann goes Network	John MacKay	2 September 2008	On yesterday's ITV Lunchtime News, Kelly-Ann Bishop made her network debut to cover the vaccination of Scottish school girls against cervical cancer. Here, she talks to John about making the leap from regional to national news.
284	Mystery Messenger	John MacKay	3 September 2008	Following his appearance on Postcode Challenge, Gerry McCullouch has been receiving some odd messages from a mysterious messenger. Another Real MacKay investigation is in order.
285	New online coverage @ stv.tv	John MacKay	4 September 2008	A new session in the Scottish Parliament has begun with STV's video website now carrying live coverage of First Minister's Questions on Thursday lunchtime. Rachel McTavish assesses how today's first webcast turned out.
286	White Not MacKay: The new video player	Louise White	8 September 2008	In a delayed edition of WNM, web editor Robert Dawson Scott discusses further the launch of stv.tv/video.
287	An Andy Murray Exclusive!	John MacKay	8 September 2008	Ahead of the US Open men's final between Andy Murray and Roger Federer in New York City tonight, John makes a somewhat questionable attempt to find the most tedious link possible between Murray and production journalist Jennifer Harrild.
288	The proposal for a new Scottish digital channel	John MacKay	9 September 2008	Comment from the managing director of STV, Bobby Hain, regarding the Scottish Broadcasting Commission's recommendation of setting up a non-profit Scottish digital channel.
289	Nougat or nougat?	John MacKay	10 September 2008	John oversees a debate on how to pronounce the word nougat.
290	The Nougat or Nougat debate continues	John MacKay	11 September 2008	Clair Stevens, Kelly-Ann Bishop, Karen Greenshields and a Francophone Mike Edwards continue the nougat debate.
291	White Not MacKay: Weather Watching	Louise White	12 September 2008	Louise and Seán head to the roof of the Pacific Quay studios on the lookout for the lesser spotted sun, along with a little weather chat.
292	Ginger Byrd is over the moon	John MacKay	15 September 2008	The Scotland Today League of predicting SPL scorelines has begun with resources co-ordinator and confessed non-footy fanatic Sharyn (Gingerbyrd) Fleming outclassing everyone in the newsroom and in fact, over 8,000 people taking part. John, Raman and Sharyn discuss further.
293	The East/West split explained	John MacKay	16 September 2008	Some viewers in the East of the region have been receiving the West sub-regional opt within Scotland Today at six. John offers an explanation as to why.
294	STV's Champions League coverage	John MacKay	17 September 2008	With the UEFA Champions League campaign underway, commissioning editor Howard Simpson looks ahead to STV's coverage, beginning tonight with highlights of the match between Celtic and Aalborg.
295	Not The Real MacKay: Focus on Edinburgh	Nicol Nicolson	18 September 2008	A special edition from the Edinburgh newsroom where Nicol Nicolson oversees how Scotland Today staff are covering the day's main stories - namely the takeover of HBOS by Lloyds TSB, First Minister's Questions at Holyrood and the appointment of Norfolkline as the new operator for the Rosyth-Zeebrugge ferry. Well, at least they should be working...
296	White Not MacKay: Money and travel	Louise White	19 September 2008	Louise wraps up the week on the blog with her own take on the global financial crisis as well as the chaos on the M8 this morning.
297	Monday Chat	John MacKay	22 September 2008	A sample of Monday morning talk from the newsroom, where the agenda consists of David Robertson's sudden departure from Reporting Scotland & its switch to single-handed presentation, PA Caroline's holiday in New York City, the green nail varnish of Kelly-Ann Bishop and how the latest SPL scoreline predictions of unlikely expert Sharyn Fleming have gone against her.
298	Prime Minister's Speech	John MacKay	23 September 2008	Recorded just after Prime Minister Gordon Brown concluded his speech at the Labour Party conference in Manchester, political editor Bernard Ponsonby offers some post-speech analysis.
299	Babes or Doll?	John MacKay	24 September 2008	Another day and another debate - this time, whether its better to say babes or doll. John is surrounded by the females of the newsroom for their views and asks for viewers' opinions.
300	The Latest from the Tatty Shelf	John MacKay	25 September 2008	By request of the forums, keeper PA Caroline, and curator Gordon McDougall provide an update on what's been added to the Tatty Shelf since its foundation.
301	White Not MacKay: Tied Up in Knots	Louise White	26 September 2008	In the midsts of the dressing room where Gerry McCullouch is doing his own ironing, Baked Potato partners in crime Seán and Kirstin have been arguing over which tie Sean should wear. Louise offers to help by throwing open the issue to blog fans....and kissing Seán.
302	Sensational Results in the Nougat/Nougat Poll	John MacKay	30 September 2008	The nougat debate concludes with the online poll results - but what kept Karen Greenshields and Clair Stevens from voting?
303	The Camping Trip	John MacKay	1 October 2008	Last night's Five Thirty Show featured part one of what happened when Stephen, Rachel, Seán, Vicky and Gerry went camping at a new five-star site in East Lothian. Messrs Jardine and Batty talk to John about what was left out at the final edit.
304	The Real MacKay's Global Reach Spreads	John MacKay	2 October 2008	A few greetings from the newsroom as the ongoing Global experiment hears from two viewers logging on to the show in the United States and the Middle East.
305	White Not MacKay: Search for the oldest TV	Louise White	3 October 2008	On the weekend blog tonight and by way of tribute to John Logie Baird, The Five Thirty Show's Rachel McTavish talks about Digital UK's search for the oldest television in Britain.
306	Stevie Wonder in the Blog	John MacKay	6 October 2008	Joanne Bonnar looks back at Stevie Wonder's concert in Birmingham over the weekend - part of his first European concert tour in ten years. Also, Laura Miller chases up the story about Bob Dylan owing everything in his career to Robbie Burns.
307	What Does It All Mean For Us?	John MacKay	7 October 2008	The global financial crisis leads to further significant share falls in the Royal Bank of Scotland whilst the Scottish rail system is about to be paralysed by the first of two planned 24-hour strikes. On this busiest of news days, how will Scotland Today cover it all? Chief editor Howard Simpson steps into the producer's role with Tom Lowe on newsgathering duties.
308	Not The Real MacKay: Performing under pressure	Gordon Chree	8 October 2008	John takes a day off from blogging, leaving Gordon Chree, Kelly-Ann Bishop, Laura Trimble and cameraman Colin Mathieson to provide a New York fan of the show with a guide to the skills and pitfalls of reporting live.
309	Heather's Back!	John MacKay	9 October 2008	Heather Simpson returns to the newsroom from maternity leave. John helps her out with a little bit of re-familiarisation.
310	White Not MacKay: Finance and out-takes	Louise White	10 October 2008	Tonight's packed Friday edition celebrates Linda Grimes Douglas's birthday, examines some floral displays, provides a financial tip and includes more classic outtakes.
311	Not The Real MacKay: Bafta nomination	Heather Simpson	16 October 2008	Heather Simpson steps up to the blog cameras again as Seán Batty announces his BAFTA Scotland award nomination for Favourite Scottish TV Personality.
312	Holiday from Hell	John MacKay	20 October 2008	John has returned from a week's holiday, as has cameraman Michael Hunter, who would rather prefer to forget his break.
313	The Tasteless Turtle from the Tatty Shelf	John MacKay	21 October 2008	A visit to the Tatty Shelf from where forum member Stuart B's addition (from Zakynthos) is unveiled. Plus, Caroline provides a quick check up on other additions.
314	Stoicism and Results	John MacKay	22 October 2008	How the Scotland Today team managed to stay on air during a fire alarm and the final result of the Babes/Doll online poll is revealed.
315	Hero or Zero?	John MacKay	23 October 2008	As one poll closes, another begins. This time, it's the question of whether East opt-out director Michael Hunter can be considered as a hero or a zero following Tuesday's fire alarm stoicism.
316	White Not MacKay: A special guest	Louise White	24 October 2008	Will Springer introduces a very special guest to the blog - the prospective next vice president of the United States...or at least, that's the description.
317	The secrets of live broadcasting	John MacKay	27 October 2008	A further insight into the world of live reporting, according to senior reporter (and part-time footballer) Mike Edwards.
318	Air Kissing at the Style Awards	John MacKay	28 October 2008	Back from last night's Style Awards, Vicky Lee and Seán Batty introduce John to what is involved in 'air kissing'.
319	Cameramen Out in the Cold	John MacKay	29 October 2008	John gets behind the camera whilst cameramen Fraser Cleland and Ross Leary get in front of it to talk about dealing with working in the cold.
320	Recognition of a TV Legend	John MacKay	30 October 2008	Whilst John tries to work out who has been messing around with the Global map, Cara Berkley is given a recognition test. Can she identify a former Reporting Scotland reporter turned Scotland Today forward planning editor?
321	White Not MacKay: Pink Not MacKay	Louise White	31 October 2008	On tonight's show, Louise, back from her temporary metamorphosis as Sarah Palin, marks a double celebration with Wear It Pink Day in the Finance department and Halloween on The Five Thirty Show. Featuring Gomez Batty-Alonso Addams and his matriarch wife, Morticia A. McTavish Frump-Addams.
322	Not The Real MacKay: Video Killed The Radio Star	Gordon Chree	3 November 2008	The Scotland Today team reflect on all their wireless yesterdays as they talk about working on radio news.
323	Are You Staying Up?	John MacKay	4 November 2008	After an intensive 22 months of campaigning and the occasional impersonation of running mates by Scottish newsreaders, the day of the US presidential election is finally here with John asking the newsroom Who's staying up?
324	A Sense of History?	John MacKay	5 November 2008	And so, it's all over. Barack Obama is to become the 44th President of the United States. Can the newsroom sense some history in the air? Will Springer, Kirstin Anderson, Debi Edward and Bernard Ponsonby get their views across. Karen Greenshields, on the other hand...
325	The Real Election	John MacKay	6 November 2008	Election week on the blog continues as Politics Now producer Stephen Townsend looks ahead to tonight's coverage of the Glenrothes by-election.
326	White Not MacKay: There's Been A Murder	Louise White	7 November 2008	Louise White...sorry, Chief Deputy Superintendent Louise White of PQ Division visits the wardbrobe of Taggart.
327	The Scottish Baftas	John MacKay	10 November 2008	A later than normal edition featuring the lowdown on what did happen and who won nothing at the BAFTA Scotland awards, by courtesy of Rachel McTavish and Stephen Jardine.
328	The Barlinnie Special	John MacKay	11 November 2008	Tomorrow night at 6pm, Scotland Today presents a special programme live from inside Barlinnie Prison as the country's jails come under scrutiny. Tom Lowe and Debi Edward look ahead.
329	Inside Barlinnie Prison	John MacKay	12 November 2008	More build-up ahead of tonight's Scotland Today Barlinnie Prison special from senior reporters David Cowan and Mike Edwards.
330	On the Outside	John MacKay	14 November 2008	In the midst of what turned out to be a major power surge at Pacific Quay yesterday, editor Howard Simpson responds to criticism about Wednesday night's Scotland Today Barlinnie special.
331	White Not MacKay	Louise White	14 November 2008	It's not been the best of weeks at STV - one misfortune being Seán Batty's defeat at the BAFTA Scotland awards on Sunday night. Here, he faces the cameras for the first time after his loss.
332	The X Factor	John MacKay	17 November 2008	John finds himself in the midst of a lively debate about that most important of topics, The X Factor. Laura Trimble, Gordon Chree, Sharyn Fleming, Joanne Bonnar, Kelly Ann Bishop, Raman Bhardwaj and Laura Miller take part in the first of a new Monday series on the blog.
333	The Radio Cam	John MacKay	18 November 2008	The recent Glenrothes by-election coverage saw the debut of a new gagdet for STV News's technical crew - the radio cam. John, sat truck operator Iain Soutar and reporter Gordon Chree explore the possibilities of the kit.
334	Was It Over The Line?	John MacKay	19 November 2008	Whilst in Glasgow for tonight's Scotland v Argentina friendly, Maradona refuted to allegations about the Hand of God by claiming that England's third goal in the 1966 World Cup Final didn't cross the line. Cue the opinions of the newsroom...
335	Is Seán the Most Trusted Man in Scotland?	John MacKay	20 November 2008	A psychologist is quoted to have said that Seán Batty is the most trusted man in Scotland. But can that claim be taken seriously? A theory test follows.
336	The X Factor Latest	John MacKay	24 November 2008	A second round of X Factor talk from the newsroom with panelists Laura Miller, Kelly Ann Bishop, Laura Trimble, Sharyn Fleming, Joanne Bonnar and Tom Lowe.
337	Graphs, diagrams and good news	John MacKay	25 November 2008	Head of news Gordon Macmillan examines some graphic evidence of Scotland Today's rising popularity whilst John takes another opportunity to kick a publicly funded concern while its down.
338	Office Irritations	John MacKay	26 November 2008	A look at what cheeses off the news team, according to John MacKay.
339	Political Thursday	John MacKay	27 November 2008	Political correspondent Michael Crow talks about the busiest day in the Scottish political week - Thursday.
340	White Not MacKay: Special Visitors	Louise White	28 November 2008	A group of primary school children visit the STV Central studios with the blog cameraman, Louise and Seán in tow.
341	X Factor Monday	John MacKay/Nicol Nicolson	1 December 2008	John MacKay in Glasgow and Nicol Nicolson in Edinburgh introduce the third of the Scotland Today team's weekly X Factor debates with a guest appearance from none other than Diana Vickers herself...well, a lookalike anyway.
342	The Director's Cut	John MacKay	2 December 2008	John Mason talks about progressing from working as an outside broadcast vision mixer to the role of studio director in another of Mr. MacKay's interviews.
343	The Peter Tobin Trial	John MacKay	3 December 2008	Chief reporter David Cowan provides a personal view on covering the trial of Peter Tobin, who was yesterday sentenced to life for the murder of Redding schoolgirl Vicky Hamilton.
344	Christmas Decorations Debate	John MacKay	4 December 2008	Another day and another debate in the newsroom - this time surrounding Seán's decision to put up a Christmas tree. Is this the right time to put up decorations?
345	White Not MacKay: What were you doing?	Louise White	5 December 2008	What were you doing on Friday 5 December 2008 at 12:05 GMT? In the Scotland Today newsroom, Louise was hosting her regular weekend blog and asking her colleagues the same question.
346	Not The Real MacKay: X Factor Monday	Raman Bhardwaj	8 December 2008	The Claw is gone and as Raman steps into John's shoes to front another edition of X Factor Monday, the enthusiasm seems to be waning a little amongst the two Lauras, Tom, Sharyn, Andy and even Mr. MacKay himself.
347	The Sound Man	John MacKay	9 December 2008	Scott Camlin, a freelance sound engineer for Scotland Today and The Five Thirty Show, becomes the latest guest on John's series of in-depth interviews.
348	The Missus	John MacKay	10 December 2008	After referring to his wife as the missus, sports reporter Andy Chambers finds himself challenged as to the acceptability of his reference by John...and Kirstin, Clair, Caroline, Alison, Karen and Sharon.
349	The New Web Page	John MacKay	11 December 2008	Will Springer and the rest of the STV online team are busy relaunching the website at the moment with new beta versions of sites for news and programmes already launched. Here, Will takes time out to guide John through the new look website.
350	White Not MacKay: The Office Swally	Louise White	12 December 2008	It's thirteen days to the 25th and with the post room staff and director John Mason in a spot of bother over parcels and swallys, Christmas preparations are anything but festive in the Scotland Today newsroom.
351	X Factor Monday: The Final	John MacKay	15 December 2008	John hits the launch plunge on his new desktop stress rocket to start the last X Factor Monday edition of the blog as the panel share their thoughts on winner Alexandra Burke and other such concerns.
352	Christmas Comes Early	John MacKay	16 December 2008	Nine days before Christmas, the team on The Five Thirty Show find themselves surrounded by toys in their corner of the newsroom. Natasha Stillwell explains.
353	Michael's a Hero - Official!	John MacKay	17 December 2008	Michael Hunter finds out whether viewers have decided he is a hero or a zero and forum member Hugh Pugh manages to confuse the keeper and curator of the Tatty Shelf by sending in a wooden frog and a stick.
354	There's Been A Murder!	John MacKay	18 December 2008	Taggart comes under the blog's spotlight again - this time, John finds out that the newly engaged Joanne Bonnar made her screen debut in the series.
355	White Not MacKay: The Christmas Special	Louise White	19 December 2008	White Not MacKay for 2008 draws to a close with a round of Newsroom Secret Santa.
356	The Ideal Christmas Party	John MacKay	22 December 2008	It's the Monday morning after the Friday night Christmas parties in Glasgow and Edinburgh. John provides a debriefing on the night's shenanigans and asks his colleagues what would be the ideal Christmas party.
357	The Christmas Blood Donor Appeal	John MacKay	23 December 2008	The final Scotland Today video blog of 2008 looks ahead to STV's on-air support campaign for the Scottish Blood Transfusion Service. John is joined by the station's promotions manager, Ellie Caddell.
358	Welcome to 2009	John MacKay	6 January 2009	John opens up a new year of blogs with news of Michael Crow's departure and a voice of concern about the North Tonight area of the STV forums.
359	A Production Debut	John MacKay	7 January 2009	How is Clair Stevens (reporter, occasional newsreader, bulletin producer, Five Thirty Show producer, newsgathering editor) getting on in her new role as a producer for Scotland Today at six? John has a chat with her.
360	New Year's Resolutions	John MacKay	8 January 2009	No inspiration expected as John finds out the newsroom's hopeful and hopeless resolutions for 2009.
361	White Not MacKay	Louise White	9 January 2009	Louise White restarts White Not MacKay by welcoming some special guests from the University of the West of Scotland in Ayr.
362	The Amy Zone	John MacKay	12 January 2009	John discovers that certain episodes of The Real MacKay can linger long in the mind and meets two work experience students by the name of Amy.
363	Hidden Talents Part 1	John MacKay	13 January 2009	The first of a two-part special exposing the Scotland Today newsroom's lesser well-known talents.
364	Hidden Talents Part 2	John MacKay	14 January 2009	The second part of John's special look at the previously undisclosed talents of the newsroom staff.
365	The Scotland Today Trombone Trio	John MacKay	15 January 2009	A follow-up to the Hidden Talents special concentrates on Jennifer, Debi and Laura's careers as trombonists.
366	White Not MacKay: New Year, New Leaf, New Book	Louise White	16 January 2009	Friday night means Louise White on the blog and this week sees her talking literature with the Scotland Today team.
367	The Debutant	John MacKay	19 January 2009	Laura Miller spent last week as presenter for the 1115 edition of Scotland Today. She reflects on her first week in a newsreading role with John.
368	The Map Readers	John MacKay	20 January 2009	They make a living out of expertly filming news footage but who can the camera operators rely on for directions on a job?
369	The David Cowan Interview	John MacKay	21 January 2009	An interview with Scotland Today's chief reporter about a journalism career spanning over 20 years from local papers in Dundee to leading STV coverage of the biggest news stories.
370	Big Brother	John MacKay/Raman Bhardwaj	22 January 2009	Raman holds fort for John and devotes the blog to what's going on with Celebrity Big Brother, ahead of tomorrow night's final. Viewers are advised to expect some sound drop-out during this episode.
371	White Not MacKay: American Politics	Louise White	23 January 2009	Tonight, at the end of a momentous week in the history of American politics, Will Springer provides commentary on the inauguration of Barack Obama.
372	Hear the Beat of Dancin' Feet	John MacKay	26 January 2009	Seán Batty is tested on his skills of identifying who is walking past his desk with only the sound of their feet to help him.
373	Trying to get a word with Tom	John MacKay	27 January 2009	Can John get a word in edgeways with news-gathering editor Tom Lowe about what to expect on Scotland Today at six?
374	Frost/Nixon	John MacKay	28 January 2009	Who needs Grant Lauchlan's Film Club when TRM has the Scotland Today Film Club? Here, they review Frost/Nixon, the Oscar nominated dramatisation of the events surrounding Sir David Frost's televised interviews with former US president Richard M. Nixon.
375	Budget Drama	John MacKay	29 January 2009	The ruling government in the Scottish Parliament suffered a dramatic setback last night as their annual budget was rejected. Political editor Bernard Ponsonby explains what it all means.
376	White Not MacKay: Artiste at Work	Louise White	30 January 2009	Senior make-up girl Helen is the subject of tonight's programme as Louise presents an in-depth interview on the art of small screen make-up.
377	Happy In His Work	John MacKay	2 February 2009	The snowy conditions and the tradition of the first Monday in February being a 'sickie day' is getting everyone down at Scotland Today...except for one lone employee.
378	Where Did The Snow Go?	John MacKay	3 February 2009	It was only last night that the Scotland Today team were warning viewers of advancing heavy snow...but most of it failed to materialise. Where did it all go wrong for Seán?
379	A Rumour Exposed	John MacKay	4 February 2009	John aims to put a rumour of great matter to rest.
380	Beckham-mania	John MacKay	5 February 2009	An opportunity to see Kelly-Ann Bishop putting together a VT on David Beckham's Scottish visit—or should that be an opportunity to see the Scotland Today girls swooning over David Beckham?
381	Primadonna Mania?	Louise White	6 February 2009	What happens when Louise attempts to get an interview with Kelly-Ann Bishop about her encounter with David Beckham this week? A short blog follows.
382	The Raman Bhardwaj Interview	John MacKay	11 February 2009	John returns to talk with Raman about his reporting career covering sport and political issues for STV.
383	Blog Wars	John MacKay	12 February 2009	John discovers that a short weather blog by Seán Batty has received a record viewership for STV video blogs. As far as Mr. MacKay and Mr. Batty are concerned, the fight is on.
384	White Not MacKay: Friday the 13th	Louise White	13 February 2009	Tonight, a little inspiration for Valentine's Day from Nicolas Sarkozy and where the Scotland Today team would rather be on this day of days.
385	New Neighbours	John MacKay	16 February 2009	There's some upheaval in Pacific Quay at the moment as various departments move around the STV headquarters - which gives John the chance to meet his new neighbours.
386	Vicky's Burlesque	John MacKay	17 February 2009	John, always looking for something to talk about, asks Vicky Lee about her burlesque performance as seen on The Five Thirty Show last night and again on this episode of TRM.
387	Where did the Five Thirty Show team go?	John MacKay	18 February 2009	A second look at the moving around PQ as John tours the Five Thirty team's new office spaces.
388	More New Neighbours	John MacKay	19 February 2009	John's take on the moving stories at Pacific Quay enter a third episode as he meets more of his new neighbours and hears of more changes to the STV website.
389	The Naughty Word Checker	John MacKay	23 February 2009	Comments are being left on the video site with an option soon to be added for the news site - but what to do with the occasional naughty words from web visitors?
390	Flat as a Chocolate Cake	John MacKay	24 February 2009	On Shrove Tuesday, John tries to woo stood-up ladies with a 5-minute recipe for a chocolate mug cake - only to ruin everything with a simple ad-lib comment.
391	Making Amends	John MacKay	25 February 2009	Following yesterday's incident, John tries to sort out any hurt amongst the newsroom women by diverting the topic of conversation but will it have the desired effect?
392	On the Road Again	John MacKay	26 February 2009	John gets back to his reporting roots and goes on the road to record interviews with a group of social workers.
393	White Not MacKay: Move Over Winslet!	Louise White	27 February 2009	Louise launches into an impersonation of Kate Winslet for this early Friday edition...but thankfully, within reason.
394	Court Reporting	John MacKay	2 March 2009	Amidst all the jovialty on recent blogs, Scotland Today has been covering the trial of Heather Boyd and Robert Cunningham for the death of Monifieth baby son Brandon Muir. Senior news correspondent Mike Edwards reflects on covering such stories.
395	Cut to size	John MacKay	3 March 2009	Last week saw John hit the road to film interviews with a group of social workers. In all, 7 minutes 45 seconds was recorded. Now, it's up to John to edit it all down to two minutes.
396	Gran Torino	John MacKay	4 March 2009	The Scotland Today Film Club returns to try and persuade Will that Clint Eastwood's latest drama Gran Torino is worth the admission price.
397	A Late One	John MacKay	5 March 2009	As the title suggests, it's a late edition - which gives John the chance to talk about the trails recorded ahead of Scotland Today at six.
398	White Not MacKay: Future presenters?	Louise White	6 March 2009	Another week draws to a close with some more of Louise's guests - this time from The Prince's Trust, complete with presentation masterclass.
399	A Gordon of All Trades	John MacKay	9 March 2009	John explores multi-skilling in the newsroom with help from Gordon Chree.
400	Nike or Nike?	John MacKay	10 March 2009	First, there was nougat or nougat. Now, John oversees the debate on how to pronounce a certain sportswear firm.
401	The Psychology of the Presenter's Chair	John MacKay	11 March 2009	How do you sit at a desk? How high or low do you adjust your chair? John, Kelly Ann, Clair and Joanne adapt these questions to investigate the preferences of sitting at the Scotland Today studio desk.
402	Not The Real MacKay: The Robert Dawson Scott interview	Karen Greenshields	12 March 2009	Online editor Robert Dawson Scott talks about the world of Scottish arts as Karen gets a second guest host stint.
403	White Not MacKay: Sweeties	Louise White	13 March 2009	Heather Simpson, Grant Lauchlan and Caroline Muir join Louise in the meeting room for a sweeties conference. No further explanation necessary.
404	Not The Real MacKay: The Two Rannies	Ranald Leask	16 March 2009	Ranald Leask in Edinburgh holds fort for John and meets...erm, Ranald Leask in the latest profile interview.
405	A Rummage Through Raman's Drawers	John MacKay	17 March 2009	The tale surrounding a pair of tickets to the CIS Cup Final, a bottle of Gordon's Gin and how Jennifer & Kelly-Ann managed to take a rummage through Raman's drawers...not in the way you're thinking.
406	Baby Face	John MacKay	18 March 2009	John is challenged by the sales team to what's known in polite society as a Babyface test...
407	The Relaunch	John MacKay	19 March 2009	This Sunday, after 37 years, Scotland Today will air for the final time. Starting Monday, the nightly regional news will be relaunched with a new look and a new name - STV News at Six. John is joined by Howard Simpson to explain the changes.
408	White Not MacKay: Climbing	Louise White	20 March 2009	Louise swaps her footwear, ditches the cameraman and heads for the mountains - or to be precise, the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, from where she presents a special video diary.
409	Countdown to New Look	John MacKay	23 March 2009	Scotland Today is gone and STV News at Six is almost here. But ahead of the first new look bulletin at 1:55pm, how much glance will John allow of the new set?
410	The New Set	John MacKay	24 March 2009	With the new look STV News at Six now fully unveiled, studio director John Mason gives an analysis of the set.
411	Rise to the Challenge	John MacKay	25 March 2009	John is challenged to better Louise's recently displayed climbing skills...in the only way he knows how.
412	The Pronunciation Debate Rages	John MacKay	26 March 2009	For every pronunciation debate that spawns a blog, there are many others that don't quite warrant an episode of their own as John finds out.
413	White Not MacKay: She just couldn't help herself	Louise White	27 March 2009	Day five of STV News at Six and Louise feels as if the new set for the West opt-out may need an extra few touches. What will director John Mason say?
414	Confrontation	John MacKay	30 March 2009	Even with eleven camera crews covering the region, John finds it difficult to get an operator to film the blog. Tom Lowe faces a little interrogation.
415	Our Rock Star	John MacKay	31 March 2009	Once a Scottish Television employee and now a singer and guitarist with Attic Lights - Kevin Sherry joins John for an interview.
416	The Creative Process	John MacKay	1 April 2009	Richard Groundsell gets to work on creating new opening titles for the blog - which already involves a 3-D John.
417	The North Sea Tragedy	John MacKay	2 April 2009	Eight people have died and another eight are still missing in the aftermath of a helicopter crash off the Aberdeenshire coast. Tonight, John will be joining Andrea Brymer in Aberdeen for a special pan-regional edition of STV News at Six on the disaster.
418	White Not MacKay: Drama at Rangers	Louise White	3 April 2009	Louise's attention turns to football tonight as Barry Ferguson loses his captaincy of Rangers and the Scottish national team. Freelance correspondent David McKinney provides reaction.
419	White Not MacKay: Gordon vs the local wildlife	Louise White	10 April 2009	A Good Friday edition from a slightly quieter than usual newsroom recalls Gordon Chree's infamous meeting with what one notable colleague described as 'local wildlife'.
420	The Politics of Making Tea	John MacKay	14 April 2009	As John returns to the blog, the newsroom goes about the business of making tea - which can't be too much of a matter to the staff...can't it?
421	What A Game!	John MacKay	15 April 2009	As seen on STV last night, Liverpool and Chelsea drew 4-4 in a memorable UEFA Champions League quarter final second leg that saw the Blues progress 7-5 on aggregate. So, what are they talking about in the newsroom this morning?
422	Crossing the Equator	John MacKay	16 April 2009	The experienced traveller, Mike Edwards, talks about the time he reached the equator line...or at least, he thought he had.
423	White Not MacKay: We are easily impressed	Louise White	17 April 2009	A bumper edition sees Louise and the Friday news team concentrate on meeting really famous people.
424	Sunny Dispositions	John MacKay	20 April 2009	It may be a glorious Monday following a glorious weekend but even the sunny weather has its downside on a few people in the newsroom.
425	Photography Day	John MacKay	21 April 2009	John and the rest of the STV News at Six team line themselves up for their mugshots on the new set.
426	The Return of The Real MacKay Global Map	John MacKay	22 April 2009	John manages to find more international viewers to keep the global map up to date.
427	The Sweetie Shop	John MacKay	23 April 2009	An object lesson in how to clear the STV newsroom - open a sweet shop downstairs.
428	White Not MacKay: Farewell to a fashion icon	Louise White	24 April 2009	It's goodbye from Kirstin Anderson - she's leaving STV News to join the BBC's Newsround. Louise bids her a fond farewell.
429	Going Digital and Terrestrial	John MacKay	27 April 2009	John manages to secure some on-air promotion time for The Real MacKay during STV News at Six. Roll the trail.
430	Oh Dear!	John MacKay	28 April 2009	As announced yesterday, The Real MacKay went out to hundreds of thousands more viewers last night during STV News at Six. But unfortunately for some of the news team, not everyone heard about the blog's TV debut.
431	Botox	John MacKay	29 April 2009	John has a simple question to ask the news staff - would you consider botox? Answers range from the completely reasonable to the potentially libel.
432	Maps of Scotland	John MacKay	30 April 2009	The new BBC Scotland logo has managed to attract John's ire. Could the newsroom do any better on a budget of nothing?
433	White Not MacKay: The font of knowledge?	Louise White	1 May 2009	The Met Office's long range forecast calls for a 'odds-on barbecue summer'. Seán Batty tells Louise what he makes of his colleagues' predictions in the last episode of White Not MacKay.
434	Green Fields of France	John MacKay	5 May 2009	Mike Edwards talks about the Scottish involvement in the excavation of unidentified human remains, originally buried in a mass French grave during the First World War.
435	Cup Competition	John MacKay	6 May 2009	John takes a look at the collection of mugs in the STV newsroom.
436	What Makes You Mad?	John MacKay	7 May 2009	Viewers watching Barcelona's victory over Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final last night would have been left with no doubt about the Blues' outrage. So, what about the outrage of the news team?
437	Guys Allowed	John MacKay	11 May 2009	As John discovers, it's understandable to see that Caroline went along to see Girls Aloud in Glasgow...but what about Raman Bhardwaj?
438	The New STV News fashion accessory	John MacKay	12 May 2009	There's been the mugs, the brolly and the jackets. Now, say hello to the STV-branded security lanyard.
439	Expenses	John MacKay	13 May 2009	As the Daily Telegraph adds more fuel to the scandal of MPs' expenses, STV Central's senior journalists get their two cents in on expenditure in their profession. And John has news on the future of the blog.
440	The Hour and some big sports news	John MacKay	26 May 2009	John returns with a brief lookahead to STV's new magazine programme The Hour and news on who triumphed in the Scotland Today Premiership.
441	Lettuce for Lunch	John MacKay	1 June 2009	A balmy Monday lunchtime beside the Clyde encourages most of the news team to head outdoors.
442	The Glass Ceiling	John MacKay/Karen Greenshields	2 June 2009	Karen puts forward a few opinions to John about women and the cliched glass ceiling.
443	Twitter Tutorial	John MacKay	3 June 2009	John decides to follow the trends and start up a Twitter account, with help from Caroline.
444	Recreation Kyle Coetzer's Catch	John MacKay	8 June 2009	John can't understand why Howard, Gerry and Joanne are so interested in Kyle Coetzer's sensational catch in Scotland's recent World Twenty20 Cup match with South Africa. Nonetheless, he decides to pull out all the stops with a lavish recreation.
445	Michelle McManus	John MacKay	9 June 2009	Michelle McManus is guest presenting The Hour this week - an opportunity for John to get her on the blog.
446	Favourite Words	John MacKay	10 June 2009	An online firm reports that the one millionth word in the English language has been officially established - Word 2.0 - leading John to literally ask his colleagues for a few well-chosen words.
447	The First Swine Flu Death	John MacKay	15 June 2009	A 38-year-old Scottish woman has become the first person outside the Americas to die from swine flu. John has analysis from senior correspondent Mike Edwards.
448	Digital Britain and The Agreement with the BBC	John MacKay	16 June 2009	It's an important day in the debate over STV's future. The company has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with the BBC to share more resources. Later, Lord Carter's Digital Britain report is due to suggest the funding of regional news services. Comment from director of broadcasting Bobby Hain.
449	Twittering Twosome	John MacKay	17 June 2009	A fortnight after signing up to Twitter, John appears to be struggling with the whole idea of it. Gordon Chree offers him a bit of help.
450	The Blog provides Public Information	John MacKay	22 June 2009	Promotions manager Ellie Caddell explains STV's part in a new public safety campaign on seat belts, airing for the first time today during commercial breaks.
451	A New Face for a Sunny Day	John MacKay	23 June 2009	John makes an appropriate introduction for STV's new relief weather presenter - Jean Johansson.
452	You're Phat, Let's Bounce	John MacKay	24 June 2009	John learns a bit of new vocabulary from the new media team to use while he's tweeting.
453	Let Down	John MacKay	6 July 2009	News Organiser Tom Lowe had been planning major coverage of Andy Murray's historic Wimbledon championship win. Except Murray went out in the semi-final to Andy Roddick just ten minutes after last Friday's News at Six went off air. John hears about his misguided plans.
454	Do you pronounce the 'J' or not?	John MacKay	7 July 2009	A late edition sees John pose yet another question about pronunciation - this time to debutant weather presenter Jean Johansson.
455	Memories of Michael Jackson	John MacKay	8 July 2009	13 days on and the STV Central news team get around to remembering Michael Jackson...and moonwalking in his honour.
456	T-in-the-Park-Tastic	John MacKay	9 July 2009	John catches up with the online team heading to Balado for tomorrow's start of the 2009 T in the Park festival.
457	Farewell Will	John MacKay	13 July 2009	Thirteen months on since being introduced by Louise, John says goodbye to STV News online producer Will Springer.
458	Skinny Dipping	John MacKay	14 July 2009	The summer holidays are approaching which leads John to a little question - yes or no to skinny dipping?
459	Perspectives on the Moon Landings	John MacKay	16 July 2009	It is forty years to the day since Apollo 11 blasted off to the Moon. But are the STV news team still interested?
460	Public Holiday	John MacKay	20 July 2009	For the most part, the STV headquarters are a quiet place because it's a public holiday in Scotland. But still - the STV News at Six team are hard at work.
461	The Blue Tie Myth	John MacKay	21 July 2009	John's response to an accusation that he only wears blue ties on air.
462	The New Intern	John MacKay	22 July 2009	John introduces Louise, the first of STV's new styled newsroom interns. But what about Alison's missing melon?
463	The Perfect Cuppa	John MacKay	27 July 2009	On a late edition of TRM tonight, John finds out why the newsroom is not exactly the best place to discover secrets in making a perfect cup of coffee.
464	Bagel Blether	John MacKay	28 July 2009	John turns attention from coffee to bagels - in particular, the homemade bagels of Gordon Chree.
465	Ageism	John MacKay	29 July 2009	John responds to a complaint of ageism from cameraman Neil McLaren - by asking the newsroom to consider when was the best era to have lived.
466	Inspiration is hard to come by	John MacKay	10 August 2009	John is feeling ready to return from a week's break and to resume the blogs. If only he didn't ask his colleagues how they were feeling...
467	Administrative Tasks and Yarns	John MacKay	11 August 2009	After a dull return yesterday, John works his way around another pin for the map and shares a tale about an encounter in a Glasweigan restaurant.
468	You'll Never Guess Who I Saw...	John MacKay	12 August 2009	Following on from yesterday's tale, the newsroom tells more stories of celebrity encounters in the first of a two-part special.
469	As we were saying...	John MacKay	14 August 2009	The delayed concluding part of the news team's celebrity encounters.
470	Did I Miss Anything?	John MacKay	24 August 2009	John manages to miss the biggest Scottish story of the year - the release of Abdelbaset al-Megrahi on compassionate grounds - by going on holiday. But it doesn't stop him and producer Linda Grimes Douglas from reviewing last Thursday's STV News at Six special from Lockerbie.
471	Culinary Tips	John MacKay	25 August 2009	A bit of lunchtime advice from the newsroom.
472	Those Lazy Hazy Days of Late Summer	John MacKay	26 August 2009	John revels in what passes for a late summer in Central Scotland.
473	The Online Reporters	John MacKay	1 September 2009	Four regional online journalists begin work today on improving STV's news website. John meets Jennifer and Euan to discuss the changes.
474	The Greatest Scot	John MacKay	14 September 2009	John asks the big question of who is the greatest Scot of them all as part of a STV viewers' poll - and talks about a little incident while filming the series.
475	R.I.P. Patrick Swayze	John MacKay	15 September 2009	A tribute to Patrick Swayze, STV style.
476	The Inspector of Prisons	John MacKay	17 September 2009	A special interview from HMP Barlinnie with the new chief inspector of Scottish prisons, Brigadier Hugh Munro, as he voices his concerns over the country's prison system.
477	The X Factor Monday Club	John MacKay	28 September 2009	John and the news team return to dissect a topic close to their hearts - X Factor Monday is back.
478	How Clean Is Your Dressing Room?	John MacKay	29 September 2009	How Clean is Your House? presenter and this week's guest host on The Hour, Aggie MacKenzie joins John to inspect the presenters' dressing room.
479	Meeting a Mega-Mega-Mega Star, or so you'd think…	John MacKay	30 September 2009	Sharon Frew on getting to grips with meeting Peter Andre...or trying to, anyway.
480	The Future for STV News	John MacKay	1 October 2009	The managing director of STV's broadcasting services and regulatory affairs, Bobby Hain, responds to questions about the proposals for an overhaul of the company's regional and sub-regional news services.
481	Way Out West	John MacKay	5 October 2009	An Edinburgh take on the Glasgow newsroom, courtesy of STV's political correspondent Jamie Livingstone.
482	The X Factor Club	John MacKay	6 October 2009	One day later than usual, the thoughts of the 'X Factor' newsroom panel as the final twelve contestants are chosen.
483	A Visitors' Eye View	John MacKay	7 October 2009	John accompanies two auction winners, Rose and Angela, on a visit to studio 1 at STV Central.
484	So, about Hibs…	John MacKay	9 October 2009	Two more auction winners, Graeme & Harry, turn up at HQ in PQ - and take the opportunity to put Gerry McCulloch on the spot about a lack of Hibernian coverage on News at Six.
485	The STV Strategy and Autumn Schedule		19 October 2009	Extended coverage of a news conference held at STV's Pacific Quay headquarters earlier today - chief executive Rob Woodward unveils the stations' network and regional programming line-up for this autumn and explains its opt-out policy and broadcast strategy.
486	The News Vision		20 October 2009	Part two of Rob Woodward's press conference on the STV strategy concentrates on the proposals for a 60-minute News at Six incorporating Scottish, UK national and international news.
487	Marty's Moment	John MacKay	21 October 2009	One of the regulars to the STV forums, Marty C, visits the Pacific Quay studios on work experience.
488	The X Factor Preview	John MacKay	23 October 2009	A bonus Friday edition featuring the newsroom panel's predictions for The X Factor this weekend.
489	The X Factor Club	John MacKay	26 October 2009	The team review the latest installment of The X Factor once again.
490	The Braveheart Connection	John MacKay	27 October 2009	Self-proclaimed Comfort and Joy extra Karen Greenshields is asked to guess which of the STV news team appeared as an extra in Braveheart.
491	The Write Factor	John MacKay	29 October 2009	John unveils a new competition offering the chance to win a six-month £5,000 contract as an online contributor for STV.
492	The Monday X-Factor Club	John MacKay	2 November 2009	John meets up with a very unhappy X Factor panel, including guest panelist Michelle McManus.
493	Textspeak	John MacKay	3 November 2009	John and intern Louise face a challenge on the meanings of textspeak.
494	Textspeak Part 2	John MacKay	4 November 2009	After John and Louise's test yesterday, the rest of the news team face the textspeak quiz.
495	The Future of Regional News - The Culture Secretary	John MacKay	5 November 2009	Tonight, the future of regional news in the STV regions, according to the Secretary of State for Culture, Ben Bradshaw.
496	The X Factor Monday Club	John MacKay	9 November 2009	John finds himself talking not only to an unhappy newsroom panel, but a livid one.
497	A Familiar Sound	John MacKay	10 November 2009	John and Gordon discover the STV News theme tune has made its way to Romania. Plus, a clarification statement regarding yesterday's programme from the producer...
498	The National Anthem Debate	John MacKay	11 November 2009	The 2010 Commonwealth Games committee is deciding upon which tune should be played as a National Anthem for Scotland, which leads online producer John Kilbride to put the debate to an online vote.
499	The X Factor/I'm A Celebrity Club	John MacKay	16 November 2009	The usual X Factor debate, combined with thoughts on the new series of I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!.
500	The Glorious 500th	John MacKay	17 November 2009	The Real MacKay reaches its 500th installment - an anniversary marked with memories from the newsroom.
501	Romanian Weather Forecasts	John MacKay	18 November 2009	Sean is left unimpressed by how 24-hour news channels in Romania choose to present their weather forecasts...
502	The X Factor Club	John MacKay	23 November 2009	The latest remarks from a revitalised newsroom panel after Jedward's departure from The X Factor and Katie Price's exit from I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!
503	When Clair met Robert Pattinson	John MacKay	24 November 2009	Total recall of what happened when producer Clair Stevens met Twilight star Robert Pattinson while helping out Grant Lauchlan with a movie special.
504	What's With All This Rain?	John MacKay	25 November 2009	Sean faces a perennial question about the recent severe weather across the region.
505	The X Factor Posse	John MacKay	30 November 2009	Not for the first time, John finds newsroom interest in The X Factor fading fast. Instead, all talk is revolving around Jedward's Scottish visit.
506	Our Budding Stars	John MacKay	1 December 2009	Following an earlier disclosure, Karen Greenshields discusses playing the bit part of a secretary in Comfort and Joy.
507	The Great T-Shirt Folding Debate	John MacKay	2 December 2009	John discovers the prim and proper way to fold a T-shirt...but Caroline and intern Louise reckon they know better.
508	The X-Factor Posse	John MacKay	7 December 2009	Fatigue sets in again on the X Factor panel (aside an upbeat John Mason) as the series approaches its finale.
509	The STV News Guide to Christmas Tree Decor	John MacKay	9 December 2009	Sean Batty describes how he decorated the three newsroom Christmas trees for this year.
510	The X Factor Posse	John MacKay	14 December 2009	It's all over at last - John and a rejuvenated panel conclude another series of X Factor debates.
511	The Christmas Night Out	John MacKay	17 December 2009	It's that time of year again - and this time, Karen is taking responsibility for the STV Central Newsroom Christmas Night Out.
512	All the Best for 2010	John MacKay	6 January 2010	John toasts the New Year - with a flurry of belated Christmas goodies.
513	Brrr...	John MacKay	7 January 2010	John's attention turns to how Mike Edwards and Joanne Bonnar are dealing with the Arctic weather conditions.
514	Tatty Shelf Update	John MacKay	13 January 2010	By continued demand, another visit to the Tatty Shelf.
515	The Digital News Editor	John MacKay	19 January 2010	Former group deputy editor at the Herald and Times, Matt Roper, is introduced as the new Digital News Editor at STV.
516	Pronunciation Problems and Ogling	John MacKay	20 January 2010	John finds out how the word 'Tocilizumab' should be pronounced and investigates why some of the newsroom ladies went to the cinema last night.
517	Harry from Westminster	John MacKay	25 January 2010	An early lookahead to the General Election from Westminster Correspondent, Harry Smith.
518	The Real Blackeye	John MacKay	27 January 2010	John has been kept off air over the past few nights with a swollen black eye. Will make-up artist Helen ensure he returns to outseat Louise at 6pm tonight?
519	Sir Alex Ferguson in Govan	John MacKay	1 February 2010	A first chance to see John's interview with Sir Alex Ferguson on a visit to the Preshal Trust Centre in Govan.
520	Sir Anthony Hopkins	John MacKay	2 February 2010	Sir Anthony Hopkins joins John via satellite to talk about his upcoming Edinburgh art exhibition.
521	Overcoming Hurdles	John MacKay	3 February 2010	It's back to the newsroom for today's edition, which profiles wannabe journalist Scott Breslin, a man who faces more challenges in his life than most.
522	Idiots in the Mist	John MacKay	8 February 2010	John tries to help Gordon Chree find out which story he's been assigned to for the day - which is more than can be said for cameraman Fraser.
523	The TV Remotes	John MacKay	9 February 2010	In the STV newsroom, the remote control is vital...so, where is it?
524	Sean's Love Club	John Mackay	16 February 2010	John tries to search out the reason why it's taken three days for Sean to open all of his Valentine's Day cards. Could the weather have kept him busy?
525	Debi's Split Personality	John MacKay	17 February 2010	How does Debi Edward juggle working as a Central Scotland reporter for STV News at Six and as a Scotland-wide correspondent for ITN's ITV News?
526	New dimension to sport	John MacKay	24 February 2010	A week on Friday, STV will launch its new weekend sports magazine show STV Sports Centre. John meets the programme's production team.
527	The New Canteen	John MacKay	1 March 2010	Fever pitch-level debate in the STV newsroom over...the new staff canteen.
528	The New Sports Reporter	John MacKay	3 March 2010	New Central sports correspondent Keith Downie talks about starting out on STV News at Six and STV Sports Centre which begins on Friday night.
529	The Jingle That Makes Your Day	John MacKay	9 March 2010	Joanne Bonnar's cheery hum inspires a blog full of vocal ditties from the news team.
530	It's Two Thirty	John MacKay	10 March 2010	John takes a look at what exactly was going on in the newsroom at 2:30pm on Wednesday 10 March 2010.
531	Jennifer Aniston Exclusive	John MacKay	16 March 2010	John provides a bit of tittle-tattle concerning Grant Lauchlan's interview with Jennifer Aniston. Could the body language prove conclusive?
532	It's not a handbag, it's a Mulberry	John MacKay	17 March 2010	John presents an exclusive, in-depth probe into...women's handbags, assisted by Louise and Heather.
533	Hello Heather	John MacKay	18 March 2010	After yesterday's exploits into women's handbags, Heather Simpson gets a bit of star treatment from the blog.
534	The Real MacKaren	Karen Greenshields	23 March 2010	Karen returns to provide an international take on life at STV News with her guest, new media producer Judit from Catalonia.
535	Election-tastic!	John MacKay	14 April 2010	John returns with a first-hand look at how STV is covering the general election with help from Northern colleague Claire Stewart.
536	What STV has on offer online for election	John MacKay	19 April 2010	Online editor Matt Roper explains the general election coverage on offer via the STV news website.
537	The Leadership Debate	John MacKay	20 April 2010	John previews tonight's Scotland Debates special on STV and ITV Border.
538	The STV App	John MacKay	4 May 2010	John and Matt unveil the all new STV News app for iPhone.
539	As The Dust Settles	John MacKay	13 May 2010	John reflects on a historic yet turbulent time in British politics...and its effect on the STV newsroom.
540	Grantzi	John MacKay	18 May 2010	John discovers an urban guerrilla sports journalist within the news team.
541	Kevin Bridges - Funny Man	John MacKay	2 June 2010	A double-bill of blogs - first off, John discovers how one member of the newsteam, Mandy, saw the potential of Glasweigan comedian Kevin Bridges right from the start.
542	Alan Has An iPad	John MacKay	2 June 2010	In a second Wednesday blog, new media man Alan Watson shows off his new iPad.
543	Virtual Nostalgia	John MacKay	3 June 2010	With the clock ticking to 6pm, John looks into a matter of great importance for the team preparing tonight's main programme...an online World Cup sticker game.
544	Underway or under way	John MacKay	4 June 2010	John rounds off the week with a look into some of the news team's pet hates.
545	STV HD	John MacKay	9 June 2010	Gary, STV's director of operations, answers a few questions about the launch of STV HD.
546	Englishmen Abroad	John MacKay	16 June 2010	A double bill of World Cup episodes starting with an appearance from the STV news staffers supporting the Auld Enemy.
547	The Vuvuzela	John MacKay	16 June 2010	John's take on the most contentious issue to have come out of this year's FIFA World Cup—the dreaded vuvuzela.
548	STV on Youtube	Gordon Chree	16 June 2010	STV Broadcasting MD Bobby Hain and Google's UK head of operations Matt Brittin talk about a new deal to put STV programming onto YouTube.
549	RealMacKayBlog@Twitter	John MacKay	12 July 2010	As the summer wears on, John gets more and more involved with his Twitter account.
550	What are we gonna do?	John MacKay	12 July 2010	And so it's over - with Spain taking home the World Cup and still a month to go until the new Scottish football season, disappointed Dutch fan John wonders how everyone's going to cope.
551	Is shorthand a dying skill in journalism?	John MacKay	15 July 2010	John discusses the art of shorthand writing with two of the newsroom's young Edinburgh Napier graduates.
552	The Lockerbie Bomber Row	John MacKay	21 July 2010	John and political editor Bernard Ponsonby explain the fallout and the confusion over Scottish Justice Minister Kenny McAskill's decision to release Abdelbaset al-Megrahi.
553	The Lottery Dilemma	John MacKay	28 July 2010	A lottery syndicate has been set up among the news team. Unforunately, according to Karen and Donald, a few disagreements over what to do with the money are emerging.
554	The X Factor Club	John MacKay	23 August 2010	Back with a vengeance, Sean Batty and Laura Boyd join John for the first of this year's X Factor post-mortems.
555	New Year New You	John MacKay	7 January 2011	The Mack returns to chat to STV controller Elizabeth Partyka and weatherman Sean Batty about the station's New Year campaign.
556	Lemon & Water	John MacKay	7 January 2011	John continues his look at the New Year, New You. Jennifer Harrild gets involved by quitting tea while online producer Laura Boyd offers a tour of the campaign website.
557	The Hurted Finger	John MacKay	7 January 2011	The third of Friday's blogs returns to newsroom matters as Sharon Frew discusses an unfortunate incident involving a car door.
558	The Uggs Debate	John MacKay	12 January 2011	A Twitter argument spirals into a full blown debate for the blog. The question - do Uggs boota make women's backsides look bigger? Heather Simpson leads the naysayers.
558	A Bum Note?	John MacKay	13 January 2011	The Uggs row continues - this time round, the debate surrounds the use of the word 'bum'.
559	Spin, Zumba and Spandex	John MacKay	14 January 2011	An update on the New Year, New You campaign - Sean talks about getting to grips with his fitness challenge while John gets some surprise news from marketing manager Gill Petrie.
560	Big in Ukraine	John MacKay	17 January 2011	Sharon Frew discovers she and the satellite truck have made their mark in Ukraine. Well, on a Ukrainian website, anyway.
561	The New STV News	Gordon Chree	18 January 2011	STV managing director Bobby Hain explains a pilot scheme to introduce fully separate editions of STV News at Six for the East and West of Central Scotland.
561	The Zumba Vest Blog	John MacKay	21 January 2011	By overwhelming demand, Messrs MacKay and Batty don the Zumba vests and matching bangles while Laura models the designer bag to promote the climax to STV's New Year, New Drive campaign. Meanwhile, Kirsten encourages the newsroom staff to take up eating fruit.
562	The Dressing Room	John MacKay	24 January 2011	John and Raman probe the state of the presenters' wardrobe.
563	Waistcoats - yes or no?	John MacKay	25 January 2011	John has taken to occasionally wearing waistcoats while presenting some bulletins. Does the newsroom approve?
564	STV Jobs	John MacKay	28 January 2011	As part of New Year New You, a guide to STV's job vacancies site.
565	The End of New Year New You	John MacKay	28 January 2011	Laura and Sean, fresh from last night's Zumba event, join John to bring New Year New You to a close.
566	Musical Chairs	John MacKay	31 January 2011	Deadline day in the transfer market is here and at the sports desk, online reporter Grant Russell is following the day's events and speculation live. The TV team are clearly not happy...
567	Sean's a Cult!	John MacKay	1 February 2011	Sean shows off his new humble abode in studio 2 at PQ.
568	Top of the League...Kind of	John MacKay	15 February 2011	John discovers some of the news team, especially a technician known as 'The Mint', have been making an impression on the SPL Score Selector...but not Raman.
569	Not Anyone Can Do It	John MacKay	18 February 2011	The life of an anchorman in the words of John MacKay...the ventriloquist dummy.
570	The 20 Campaign	John MacKay	21 February 2011	Is it two-thousand-and-eleven or twenty-eleven? John starts a campaign to get everyone behind the latter name.
570	The Big Story	John MacKay	22 February 2011	Someone in the STV newsroom has struck a body blow for litter by having some of the newsroom bins removed as part of a recycling drive. Mr MacKay suspects director John Mason is behind it.
571	The VJs	John MacKay	23 February 2011	In one of the most extravagant installments of the blog ever produced, John takes a look at how some of the newsteam are being trained up as video journalists.
572	Top Gear	John MacKay	24 February 2011	A homage to a well known motoring entertainment show, concentrating on a vintage Nissan model.
573	Doll-phobia	John MacKay	25 February 2011	Some of the female news staff raised concern about a ventriliquist dummy with the likeness of a regional news anchorman featured in an earlier blog.
574	Jane's Back!	John MacKay	28 February 2011	Five years after her departure from what was Scotland Today from Cowcaddens, sports correspondent Jane Lewis returns to the new-fangled STV News at Six from Pacific Quay as a freelancer.
575	Vicky's Back	John MacKay	7 March 2011	Yet another old face from the Scotland Today years is back. Vicky Lee returns to the STV newsroom after a stint working in radio journalism.
576	STV Local	John MacKay	8 March 2011	John gets a progress report on the STV Local websites from some of the team working in the Central region.
577	Easter Injuries	John MacKay	26 April 2011	The two Johns, Adam, Heather and Gordon return from a haphazard Easter weekend of cooking and do-it-yourself mishaps.
578	The Interns	John MacKay	27 April 2011	Jo Wilson and Kirsty Malcolm, the latest STV interns, arrive in the newsroom to help out during the election campaign.
579	The Wild Folk from the North	John MacKay	27 April 2011	Newsgathering editor Jill Mowat and reporters David Marsland & Shiona McCallum pop down from Aberdeen for a stint in the Central belt.
580	Mr Autocue	John MacKay	28 April 2011	John pays tribute to the late Hubert 'Hub' Schlafly, inventor of the autocue and Norio Ohga, inventor of the CD.
581	The Royal Wedding	John MacKay	28 April 2011	The news team discuss plans or otherwise for tomorrow's impending marriage of William and Catherine.
582	The French Connection	John MacKay	3 May 2011	John receives a visit from the producers of the Arte documentary series Toutes les télés du monde, making its very last programme in Scotland.
583	The Election Masterminds	John MacKay	4 May 2011	A three-part episode focusing on preparations for tomorrow's all-night election results coverage on STV and ITV Border - beginning with a chat with broadcast editor Howard Simpson and online editor Matt Roper.
584	The Hot Seat	John MacKay	4 May 2011	Political editor Bernard Ponsonby will be co-anchoring tomorrow's Scotland Decides marathon alongside new recruit Juliet Dunlop. Here, he discusses the election campaign just gone.
585	At the Count	John MacKay	4 May 2011	Gordon Chree, who will be based in Dumfries for tomorrow's results coverage, dissects what takes place at an election count.
586	Sneezing Styles	John MacKay	18 May 2011	With the pollen season in full swing, John tries something a little different for the blog...getting the news staff to talk about their sneezes.
587	The New Set	John MacKay	25 May 2011	With the new STV News programmes for the Central region into their third day, West director John Mason explains the thinking behind the new studio set.
588	Students' Special: HR	John MacKay	26 May 2011	A three-part edition in which John puts questions from the City of Glasgow College to some of STV's staff. First off, the human resources department.
589	Students' Special: Tech/VJ/Graphics	John MacKay	26 May 2011	Part two concentrates on the production side of the newsroom - in particular, technical operaions, videojournalism and graphics.
590	Students' Special: Programme Production	John MacKay	26 May 2011	Finally, questions on programme production with STV Productions' head of documentary output Mick McAvoy.
591	Serendipity	John MacKay	26 May 2011	Inspired by the musings of director Laura Trimble, John and the team discover the ingenious pulling power of a golf club and Donald's bag of necessities.
592	The Big Issue	John MacKay	1 June 2011	John joins Sean, the two Lauras and Alison to discuss a matter of concern to everyone - Cheryl Cole's alleged departure from the US version of The X Factor.
593	Dopplegangers	John MacKay	16 June 2011	Being as he is, John MacKay is rarely, if ever, mistaken for anyone else. But for some of the other news staff in Glasgow, that isn't the case.
594	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	26 March 2014	Blog returns after 3 years gap.
595	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	28 Mar 2014	Raman Style comments
596	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	9 April 2014	Wigs
597	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	10 April 2014	Scotland Tonight production team
598	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	23 April 2014	Talk with Rona Dougall
599	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	24 April 2014	The Dummy
600	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	28 April 2014	STV HD
601	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	30 April 2014	STV Glasgow
602	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	1 May 2014	More from STV Glasgow
603	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	2 May 2014	Sports Quiz
604	The Return of the Real MacKay Video Blog	John MacKay	29 May 2014	Peak at the rebrand,

External links

• The Real MacKay at stv.tv
• The Real MacKay's channel on YouTube