The North Edinburgh News Cooperative, made up of Tenants and Residents in Muirhouse (TRIM), North Edinburgh Community News and The Edinburgh Reporter, held its first community event this morning at the Muirhouse Community Shop.
Despite the fact that he was not feeling too well, Colin Keir MSP joined us to chat to the visitors and find out about our new joint venture.
We had asked for people to bring their mums along to get a photo taken for Mother’s Day and ended up having a really good morning speaking to those who made it along.
Here are some of the mums we met.
Fiona Burness and her son Carlos were first to get their family photo taken. Fiona runs the archery club at Pilton Youth and Children’s Project. She told us: “I live and work in West Pilton. There’s lots in the areas for the kids. It is true that a lot of negative stuff is reported about the area but there are a lot of good things going on too.
“Carlos goes to Boys Brigade and has three badges so far for the three years since he enrolled.
Fiona made her suggestion for the area: “I think a lot of the green spaces in this area need tidied up. Some of the trees here are neglected by the council.”
Joanne Blake brought her three girls along, but although the two older sisters were really happy to pose it took a few biscuits before we could get Maisie to join in!
Joanne said: “There could be more places for kids to play. I have lived here all my life and think we could do with a new play park.”
Steven Chappell and Stacey Williamson with Jordan,Tiamie and Jamie all posed for a snap.
Steven said: “There is not much for the kids to do these days. There could be more parks in the area and those that are here could do with being done up.”
Adelle Boa brought her children Ruairi and Destyni with her. Adelle commented: “I wish they would sort out all the problems we have with motorbikes and cars here.
“I know they are trying with Operation Quarterlight, but I really want it to stop.”
Joanne Reidie’s daughter Kayla was another reluctant participant but we managed to get a quick snap of her with a phone camera!
And although Kelly who popped into the shop did not want her photo taken she told us that she has lived her for a number of years and she would really like the area to have a skatepark.
Next Friday there is a call for anyone to bring your pets along to get some photos taken with them.
Come to the Muirhouse Community Shop between 11am and 2pm.