Five things you need to know today

Police appeal for witnesses to robbery – Adult Learning Week – Footballer arrested – Gorgie and Dalry music competition – TEDGlobal in Edinburgh

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Lothian and Borders Police are appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery at an East Lothian newsagent.

The incident happened around 9.45pm on Monday 7th May at the RS McColl store in Delta Drive, Musselburgh.

A female sales assistant was working within the premises when a man entered and produced a knife before demanding money.

The employee refused to hand any cash over and the suspect attempted to open the till.

However, he was unsuccessful and left the shop empty handed.

Police are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

The suspect is described as white, early twenties, 5ft 5ins tall with a slim build and dark eyes. He spoke with a local accent.

A police spokesman said: “The male was thwarted by the sales assistant’s refusal to hand over any money and we are now keen to identify and trace him.

“Anyone who was in or around Delta Drive yesterday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone who believes they recognise the description of the suspect is also asked to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

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Exploring hieroglyphs, learning IT and discovering family history, are just some of the free taster courses that are running from 11 – 18 May 2012 to mark Adult Learners’ Week.

Throughout the week there are free events taking place, giving people the chance to explore the adult learning opportunities on offer across Edinburgh.

Mike Rosendale, Head of Schools and Community Services at the City of Edinburgh Council said: “Adult learners’ Week offers a fantastic opportunity for people to find out what’s on offer in their community and across the city. It is never too late to learn and adult learning courses offer the chance to try something different and pick up some valuable new skills.”

A full list of the events being coordinated by the City of Edinburgh Council  are available online and booking before is recommended for some of the events, others are drop in.

The events form part of the Adult Learners’ Week national initiative. The aim of the week is to raise awareness of the range and value of adult learning.

To celebrate the experiences achievements of adult learners from Edinburgh, an event will be held on Friday 18 May at the City Chambers to recognise the successes of different education groups and classes.

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The Press Association have reported that a St Johnstone footballer was arrested in the early hours of Monday morning at the HMV Picturehouse, following a disturbance. Derek Riordan has play in the past for Hibs.

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Gorgie and Dalry Gala is back and they are staging a music competition! Find out more here. 

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TED Global is a non-profit organisation which promotes “Ideas worth spreading”. The TED Global conference is being held here in Edinburgh at the end of June. One of the speakers is to be sculptor, Antony Gormley who has given us all such a treat with his people in the Water of Leith.  Comedian Ruby Wax is also on the list, and you will find the full programme on the website. 

And our photo today was taken yesterday evening at STV’s Edinburgh offices. The Edinburgh Reporter was invited along to see their new space and sit in the news presenter’s chair. It was fun!