Five things you need to know today
Swinney for First Minister
The SNP’s John Swinney declared his intention to run in any leadership contest on Thursday morning, and having said during his speech that he would bring Kate Forbes into any cabinet, Ms Forbes announced later in the day that she would not stand. This allows for a coronation of the former Deputy First Minister who was leader of the SNP some two decades ago, but for whom this time the top job is in reach.
Unless a late candidate throws their hat into the ring by Monday at noon, it is virtually certain that Swinney will be announced as leader of the SNP on Monday and then the next – the eighth – First Minister.
Who were the others? Humza Yousaf, Nicola Sturgeon, Alex Salmond, Jack McConnell, Henry McLeish and Donald Dewar and not forgetting Jim Wallace who became First Minister on the death of Donald Dewar for just 16 days and on the resignation of Henry McLeish for just 19 days.
At Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop
On Saturday at ESW everyone is invited to a workshop, book in for a tour or explore the artists’ studios.
It is also a family day – no need to book just turn up between 1 and 3pm.
MILK, the on-site cafe will be open all day and have lots of lunch options, cakes and a special pancakes offer for kids this Saturday.
Edinburgh World Heritage event
THURSDAY 16 MAY 2024
at: Riddle’s Court
322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Most medieval cities and towns had several churches, of different sizes, serving the population. Edinburgh was no exception, and while several have vanished, more remains than is realised. This talk will describe what was and what remains as well as look at some later developments. It will cover well-known survivors, such as St Giles as well as those much less well known, like Trinity College and the Magdalen Chapel.
Prof Adam Cumming has worked as a research scientist for over 40 years in the defence field. He was made an Honorary Professor in the University of Edinburgh School of Chemistry.
Our May issue is out now
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Meadows to George Street plans
The next public drop in when you can have a look at the plans for the route from Meadows to George Street is on 9 May. See more below.