Great Britain team manager Alun Rossiter admitted his side had been left at the gate as they were well beaten by the awesome Australians.

Mark Lemon’s men were 57-33 winners in the test match in front of a noisy 2,000-strong crowd at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium in Glasgow today.

The hosts struggled to deal with the visitors’ strength in depth despite world championship leader Tai Woffinden.

The British star broke the track record, speeding round the track in 55.99sec in the first heat, the fastest time on the track since it was reshaped and the quickest anyone has gone round it in its history.
He racked up 12 points but Glasgow Tigers newcomer Craig Cook, a former Edinburgh Monarchs captain, also produced two late wins to cheer the crowd.

Rossiter said: “We were totally outclassed from the start. Fair play to the Aussies. Craig (Cook) came from the back in that last race and Tai did it a couple of times, but we were chasing from the start all the time.”

Aussie star Max Fricke, a former Edinburgh Monarchs rider, who scored 11 points, said: “All the boys worked together and we have a good team atmosphere as always.

“We had some good starts between us all, and it’s nice to see us get a win.”

Murrayfield Racers will play their first competitive game on Saturday, August 25 (7pm face-off) and their opening home game will be on Sunday, August 26 (face-off 6pm).

Both games will be against Dundee Comets, last season’s Scottish National League (SNL) champions.

The Caledonian Cup will be at stake and Tony Hand, Racers; director of hockey, said this will be a severe test for his new squad.

Confirmation of the fixture emerged minutes after the end of Racers’ first fans forum.

It was standing room only in the Riversdale Suite at Murrayfield Ice Rink and Tony Hand, Racers’ director of hockey, plus director Willie Dunn and shareholder Kenny McLean met fans eager for news.

Subjects covered during the 90-minute session included the evolution of the club’s new logo, how the kit design was conceived and developed and how Hand was recruiting his new-look team.

The ticket price structure was explained and the club appealed for volunteers to attend a meeting at the rink on Tuesday (6.30pm) to help with various jobs on match night and behind-the-scenes.

And Murrayfield stalwart Jock Hay and much-respected former player Martin Cingel were confirmed as part of the coaching staff.

A number of players from last season’s SNL side will be in the new team but Hand said they had to prove they were worth their place.

Hand also confirmed that Racers’ regular match nights will be a Sunday with a 6pm face-off and that the club were discussing disabled access with management of Murrayfield Ice Rink.

The Racers legend explained that the club were allowed two imported players and the aim of the club, he said, was to develop local players.

The International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame member also explained that he wants to see the club play at the highest possible level.

Trials for the team will be held on Tuesday (8pm) and Hand said he wanted to develop local players to the top of their ability.

He added: “Apart from building the team, we are also building a community programme.

“We want to get into schools to introduce young people to the sport of ice hockey.

“Yes we want a strong team here, but we also want to excite the people in Edinburgh and the surrounding area to the sport.

“There are many people out there that do not know that ice hockey is played here and we want to reach them.”

Hand added: “We are really encouraged by the turn-out at the meeting and to our news which we post regularly on social media.

“And the meeting was really positive. This is something we aim to build on.”

After their European success it was back to league business this afternoon for Hibs at Easter Road and they started the season in style with a superb 3-0 victory over last years Scottish Cup runners-up Mothewell.

Neil Lennon made three changes to the starting XI that drew with Asteras Tripolis on Thursday night.

Ryan Porteous replaced the injured Darren McGregor, whilst Marvin Bartley and Oli Shaw replaced Vykintas Slivka and Florian Kamberi who both dropped to the bench.New signing Jamie MacLaren was also listed amongst the substitutes.

Hibs dominated the early possession without troubling the Motherwell keeper to any great degree as both sets of supporters created a fantastic atmosphere.

Carl McHugh was lucky to escape a red card following a dreadful tackle on Bartley but after allowing the advantage referee Bobby Madden decided a yellow was sufficient.

Madden did not endear himself to the Hibs’ fans by his over lenient approach to a number of ‘borderline’ Motherwell challenges.

John McGinn then set up Oli Shaw but the youngster’s shot was blocked as Hibs started to pile on the pressure.

At the other end, the fans held their breath as Efe Ambrose, instead of clearing his lines decided to beat three opposition attackers inside his own penalty box before sliding a pass to Lewis Stevenson.

Hibs finally took a deserved lead in the 29^th minute. The impressive Stevie Mallan tried a long-range effort which Pater Hartley blocked with his arm on the edge  of the penalty box. The ‘Well defender was booked and Mallan fired the resultant free kick into the bottom corner of the net.

Madden continued to frustrate the Hibs’ fans with Martin Boyle in particular coming in for some harsh treatment from the Motherwell defenders.

Hibs added a second in the 44^th minute after McGinn’s excellent pass found Shaw at the back post and the teenager calmly slotted the ball into the net from an acute angle.

Just before the break Adam Bogdan did well to deny Chris Cadden who cut in from the right.

Motherwell made a double substitution at the start of the second half with Aaron Taylor-Sinclair and Liam Grimshaw being replaced by Elliot Frear and Gael Grimshaw.

McGinn almost made it 3-0 just after the restart but Trevor Carson palmed away his effort.

The third arrived five minutes later after a fantastic move down the left side with some excellent one touch football between McGinn, Stevenson and Boyle who cut inside and fired a powerful strike into the net from 22 yards.

Hibs then enjoyed a sustained spell of pressure, mounting attack after attack.

In the 63^rd minute David Gray and Mallan were replaced by Slivka and MacLaren who entered the field to a standing ovation from the Hibs’ fans.

Motherwell also replaced Curtis Main with Danny Johnson who almost pulled one back in dramatic fashion after latching not a slack pass from Boyle. His strike beat Bogdan but rebounded off the post back into his path. He then rounded the Hibs’ keeper but Paul Hanlon produced a superb block to keep the score 3-0.

Motherwell had the better of the last 15 minutes as the Hibs’ players understandably tired after their midweek match.

Shaw set up MacLaren with a fine through ball but Carson did well to save the Australian strikers first time effort.

Motherwell had the ball in the net moments later but Johnson’s effort was ruled out for pulling in the build up.

Bogdan who had looked impressive throughout suffered an injury which prevented him taking goal-kicks but the keeper still commanded his box and set up another Hibs attack after finding Danny Swanson who earned a round of applause after a lung bursting 80 yard run.

In time added on, Bogdan ensured a clean sheet with a great save from Johnson. The ball rebounded to on-loan Hearts’ striker Connor Sammon but his header flew harmlessly wide and Hibs held on to secure a well-deserved three points.

There is no rest for Lennon’s men however as they are back in European action on Thursday night against Molde.

Hibs: Bogdan, Gray, Hanlon, Bartley, McGinn, Boyle, Mallan, Stevenson, Ambrose, Shaw, Porteous. Subs: Laidlaw, Slivka, MacLaren, Kamberi, Martin, Mackie

Motherwell: Carson, Tait, Taylor-Sinclair, McHugh, Cadden, Main, Grimshaw, Rose, Sammon, Donnelly. Subs: Gillespie, Frear, Bigirimana, Rodriguez, Johnson, Turnbull, Scott

Referee Bobby Madden

Attendance 17,494

A clean air campaign launched by Edinburgh West Lib Dems has been endorsed by a
local resident suffering from severe asthma.

Christine Jardine MP and Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP met with constituent Karen Bruce who
lives on St John’s Road. Karen has been left hospitalised by a series of serious asthma attacks and feels that her condition has been aggravated by the air quality in her local area.

Ms Jardine and Mr Cole-Hamilton are encouraging local residents to sign their clean air
petition, which calls on Edinburgh City Council ensure that any future low emissions zone will cover Corstorphine, Murrayfield and Queensferry Road.

Ms Jardine said: “The health problems Karen is experiencing are clearly related to the terrible air quality that residents in Corstorphine have to live with on a daily basis.

“The fact that Karen’s asthma attacks are now putting her in hospital underlines how much we need a low emissions zone here in the west of Edinburgh.”

Miss Bruce added: “My flat looks out on to the busiest part of St John’s Road, which was declared the second most polluted street in Scotland last year.

“The vehicle fumes really aggravate my asthma, so I can’t even open my windows for fear of being hospitalised again by another bad asthma attack.

“Sometimes I even have to cover my face with a scarf when I walk down the street.

“It’s forcing me to consider moving away from an area I otherwise love to live in.”

Mr Cole-Hamilton said: “People living here shouldn’t be expected to put up with this.

“By introducing a few simple emission controlling measures, we can tackle air quality and
improve daily life for people such as Karen who are suffering from conditions like asthma.

“I encourage anyone who agrees with us to sign up to our online clean air petition.”

JORDAN Gray has just appeared in Paloma Faith’s latest video “Warrior”. She is just one of several individuals that the pop star points to as a strong role model in her life.

This month, Jordan is appearing in her show “People Change” at Just the Tonic at The Caves (8.50pm to 9.50pm), and this is one of our recommendations for your 2018 Fringe.

After a ten year career in the music business, recording artist Jordan Gray announced a sudden and surprise leap into stand-up comedy… Why? In her debut comedy special People Change, the transgender comic attempts to justify the second-biggest change of her life.

Jordan fuses her wonderful uplifting joie de vivre comedy with a number of musical numbers that show why her music was so popular. This could be one of those shows, tucked away down off the Royal Mile that you will see and really be grateful that you caught. It is also Pay What You Want, so you have nothing to lose!

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/jordan-gray-people-change

Here is the Paloma Faith video

Below is a link to a review of the pre-Edinburgh show in London.

http://www.yourthurrock.com/2018/05/03/review-jordan-gray-curtain-people-change/

YVUA Arts present their award-winning About Lady White Fox with the Nine Tales, a retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth based on the mysterious and exotic White Fox legend of the Orient.

In the play, part of Assembly Festival’s Korean Season, Lady Macbeth is reimagined as a nine-tailed fox; a creature that appears in the legends of Korea. It can freely transform, among other things, into a beautiful woman often set out to seduce boys and eat their liver. Legend has it if the White Fox eats enough livers they can become human.

The play takes us through the Macbeth story we think we know but gives it an usual twist with live painting, physical movement and musical performances from the Korean cast. The dialogue is sparse (with subtitles for non-native speakers) but the show is visually arresting. The dark stage bursts into colour with the painting, costumes and movement of the cast, often words are not needed.

I found the play got off to a slow start but the explosion of colour, dancing, traditional music and humour in the last act more than made up for that.

The story was confusing at times but that was probably my ignorance of the White Fox legend. An enjoyable and interesting experience that I would recommend to anyone with an interest in folklore and mysticism.

About Lady White Fox with Nine Tales is on at Assembly George Square Studio Three at 1.00pm until 27 August (not 14, 21). Tickets are £12/10 and can be booked here.

The Saltire Society will host a series of free events celebrating Scottish music and poetry
during this year’s Edinburgh Festival.

The performances will take place throughout August at The Saltire Society headquarters just off the Royal Mile and will showcase the talents of a variety of musical and literary performers.

On Wednesday 8 August 2018 at 7pm, The Heretics will entertain guests with a night of words, music and song. Originally formed in 1970 when a group of disillusioned artists in
Scotland decided to create their own platform for modern Scottish art, the group was re-established in 2015. This performance, featuring both current members of The Heretics and a few special guests, will include: poets Anne Pia, Colin Bartie and Lorna J Waite; singers Kerry McDonald and Adam MacNaughton; and musicians Ron Shaw and Alan
MacDonald.

Poet Hugh MacDiarmid, who has been called ‘the single most powerful cultural force in 20th-century Scotland”, will be honoured with two performances of ‘Hugh MacDiarmid – A Celebration’ performed by celebrated Gaelic actor Dolina Maclennan and poet Alan Riach. Taking place on 11th August at 1pm and 15th August at 7pm.

‘Why The Birds Sing’ on 22nd August at 7pm will be an evening celebrating the magical world of the birds. The show will feature a collection of poetry, music, song and stories in Scots and English from the pen of Borders poet Ian McFadyen who will lead the performance with a little help from friends.

Sarah Mason, Programme Director of The Saltire Society said: “We are thrilled
to be running this wonderful selection of performances at The Saltire Society
this August, celebrating both contemporary and traditional Scottish music and
poetry. It is an honour to be working with these talented performers and we
invite both locals and visitors to Edinburgh to join us for what are sure to be
inspiring and uplifting events.”

All of the shows are free to attend but advance booking is essential. Places can be booked online at the following links:

•  The Heretics – 7pm on 8th August http://www.saltiresociety.org.uk/event/saltire-society-heretics-event
• Hugh MacDiarmid – A Celebration – 1pm on 11th August http://www.saltiresociety.org.uk/event/hugh-macdiarmid-a-celebration
• Hugh MacDiarmid – A Celebration – 7pm on 15th August http://www.saltiresociety.org.uk/event/fringe-events-hugh-macdiarmid-a-celebration.-15-august-7pm
• Why The Birds Sing – 7pm on 22nd August http://www.saltiresociety.org.uk/event/fringe-events-why-the-birds-sing

Alternatively, places can also be booked by emailing saltire@saltiresociety.org.uk or calling 0131 556 1836.

All events will take place at

The Saltire Society, 9
Fountain Close, 22 High Street, EH1 1TF.

Sleep no more…The ruined aftermath of a bloody civil war.  Ruthlessly fighting to survive, the Macbeths are thrust towards the crown by forces of elemental darkness.

Festival Theatre Edinburgh has announced confirmation of casting for the National Theatre’s epic and visually daring production of Shakespeare’s most intense tragedy with a five day programme of performances at The Festival Theatre – 23 – 27 October 2018

Following its sold-out London run, Scottish actor Michael Nardone (BBC One’s The Night Manager and Rellik, HBO’s Rome) will play the title role in National Theatre Director Rufus Norris’ touring production of Macbeth, with Kirsty Besterman (Genesis Inc. at Hampstead Theatre, They Drink It in The Congo at the Almeida Theatre, and BBC One’s Father Brown) joining the cast as Lady Macbeth.

Macbeth is produced on tour by the NT, creators of War Horse and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Directed by NT Artistic Director Rufus Norris (Cabaret, London Road) and designed by Rae Smith (War Horse, This House) this new production propels Shakespeare’s classic title into a post-apocalyptic world of anarchy and uncertainty.

http://capitaltheatres.com/ntmacbeth

It’s 1914. One of the bloodiest conflicts the world has seen – described at the time as the ‘war to end all wars’ – breaks out in Europe. In Scotland, football continues and is seen by many as a welcome distraction from the horrors of war in Europe. However, there are many who feel those playing football should be turning their attention to more serious matters on foreign shores.

At the top of the Scottish First Division sit Heart of Midlothian FC. They have won 19 of 21 matches and it seems no one can stop Edinburgh’s finest football club becoming Scottish league champions. Then, one of the Hearts players says he is going to volunteer to serve his country – conscription wasn’t introduced until 1916. Thirteen of the Hearts players would volunteer to serve together in Sir George McCrae’s Battalion destined to fight in France. They were joined by Hearts supporters and players and supporters of other clubs after a rallying call at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.

A War of Two Halves is the story of these young Hearts players; an evocative and dramatic journey through Tynecastle Park led by the players/soldiers in a unique site-specific performance.

The passion shown by those young actors is what is striking about this performance. When you sit in the present-day Hearts changing room at Tynecastle – as part of the performance – the presence of these young actors, resplendent in the Hearts strip of 1914 takes you back more than a century. Hearts manager John McCartney, played by Tim Barrow, looked stylish in his bowler hat.

The story begins with Alfie Briggs – one of the Hearts players in that famous team – played with some style by Bryan Lowe (in the afternoon session I saw – he and Paul Beeson trade these roles) and you know Lowe is an ardent Hearts supporter by the way he kisses the maroon shirt in the opening minutes. Acting doesn’t teach you this – it comes from the heart.

This is a passionate and very well acted story which leaves a lump in the throat not only for those Hearts supporters present but for everyone else witnessing this superb production.

Written by Paul Beeson & Tim Barrow, and featuring a cast of young Scottish actors, A War of Two Halves is directed by Bruce Strachan, Artistic Director of Nonsense Room Productions.

Strachan says: “This is a truly iconic story and is absolutely synonymous with Edinburgh and Heart of Midlothian Football Club. It is an honour for us to bring this story to life. With 2018 marking 100 years since the signing of the Armistice, it is the perfect time to share the remarkable story of “the bravest team” for a new generation of fans. Every Hearts fan will have heard of McCrae’s Battalion – this is the chance to really understand their story. For a wider audience, the opportunity to experience a behind-the-scenes view of a football stadium with a dramatic retelling of historical events will be a truly unique Fringe experience.”

Heart of Midlothian Football Club welcome audiences to their stadium, the historic Tynecastle Park and said:

“It is absolutely fitting that in the year of the centenary of the Armistice, Tynecastle Park should host This is My Story’s production, A War of Two Halves. By telling the story that started with a rallying cry at our ground from Lieut-Col. Sir George McCrae, it pays homage to the footballers who volunteered to go to the front in 1914. Many paid the ultimate price for their country. Their memory will never be forgotten and is honoured throughout Tynecastle Park. This is a story that needs to be told to as broad an audience as possible. It takes on particular poignancy as it comes to life in the very ground the team left in 1914, with action taking place throughout the stadium. This unique “promenade performance” will undoubtedly be a standout piece in this year’s Fringe Festival and we would urge parents to consider bringing their children to experience this historically important production and to learn of the sacrifice of “the bravest team.”

Fans of all football clubs are welcome. Indeed, even if you’re not a football fan you can’t fail to feel emotional at the telling of this heart-warming yet tragic story. I defy you not to have a lump in your throat at the end of the performance.

A War of Two Halves plays at Tynecastle Park from until Sunday 19th August 2018, with shows beginning at 1pm, 3:30pm, 6pm and 8:30pm daily (not Sat 11th). Tickets here.

Edinburgh Reporter rating: ****

Hamilton Academical 1 Heart of Midlothian 4
Ladbrokes Premiership – Saturday 4th August 2018 – Hope Stadium

A year ago, Hearts were in the depths of despair. An embarrassing exit from the Betfred Cup which included defeat from bottom tier Peterhead led to the sacking of Head Coach Ian Cathro and Hearts opening game in their 2017/18 league campaign saw them on the wrong end of a 4-1 hammering from champions Celtic.

Twelve months on Hearts have qualified for the knock-out stages of the Betfred Cup and were again involved in a 4-1 scoreline in their opening league game of the season. However, this time it was a resounding 4-1 victory at Hamilton Academical as the Gorgie Boys raced to the top of the table on the opening day of the league season.

Current Head Coach Craig Levein decided to go with the same team that hammered Inverness Caledonian Thistle in impressive fashion six days ago. This itself was an unusual occurrence – Levein is well-known for his ‘horses for courses’ approach.

It was an auspicious start for Hearts, wearing their navy-blue away strip. Hamilton had the Gorgie men pinned in their own half in the early stages although Hearts keeper ‘Bobby’ Zlamal wasn’t troubled unduly. In fact, it was Hearts who created the first real scoring opportunity when Steven Naismith set up Steven MacLean but the former St Johnstone player’s effort on goal hit the side net.

In the 17th minute Hearts gifted Accies the opening goal. Defender Aaron Hughes was indecisive in dealing with the ball inside his own penalty box and Miller took advantage to prod the ball last Zlamal to put the home side in front.

Given Hearts dismal away record last season there may have been a horrible feeling of déjà vu among the 2,500 travelling Maroon Army but their fears were dispelled three minutes later. Steven Naismith delivered a fine cross for Peter Haring to head past Accies keeper Woods to level the score.

One could sense this was a game changer and Hearts pressed forward more and more. The impressive Naismith played Callumn Morrison through but the teenager’s shot on goal posed more of a threat to those watching in the stand.

As half-time neared the home side nearly went in front again when Bingham had an opportunity but was thwarted by a brilliant block from John Souttar.

Half-time: Hamilton 1 Hearts 1

Hearts looked in determined mood after the break and Peter Haring nearly grabbed a second goal, but his half-volley was well saved by Woods.

Shortly afterwards, Naismith was brought down inside the Accies penalty box. The on-loan Norwich City player duly despatched the resultant penalty kick and Hearts were ahead within four minutes of the second half.

It was all Hearts now and they added a third goal just before the hour mark. Olly Lee’s free-kick was headed on by captain Christophe Berra allowing Naismith to set up Peter Haring to slot home his second goal and put Hearts 3-1 ahead.

Just four minutes later and it was game over. Great play from Uche Ikpeazu set up Steven MacLean who drilled home a fine goal to seal the points for the visitors.

Indeed, it could have been five moments later when Aaron Hughes, of all people, found Ikpeazu but the former Cambridge United striker’s diving header was saved by Woods.

Afterwards, Hearts two-goal hero Peter Haring told BBC Sport Scotland:

“It feels like a little bit of a dream to be come here to play my first league game and score two goals. I can’t remember when I’ve scored two goals the last time.

“The first 20 minutes were not good – Hamilton were strong and were quicker and picked up more second balls.

“After they scored, I don’t know why, we did better and we played well in the second half.

“Our gaffer said after the game that he feels that we can score at any time and that makes us confident.

“Even when we are behind, we know we can score and I am pretty sure we can still do better.”

Hearts have now scored 14 goals in three games and had ten shots on target at Hamilton. Craig Levein is often criticised for being too negative but Hearts impressive start to the season suggests change is in the air.

The test of this comes next Saturday lunchtime when league champions Celtic come to Gorgie.

Hamilton Accies: Woods, McMann, Gordon, Imrie (Cunningham, 70′), Bingham (Bloomfield, 79′), Miller, Penny, MacKinnon, Want, Lyon (Taiwo, 62′), Kelly.

Hearts: Zlamal, Souttar, Haring, Berra, Lee, Naismith, Hughes, Garuccio (Burns, 70′), MacLean, Ikpeazu (Lafferty, 77′), Morrison (Mulraney, 70′)

Referee: Andrew Dallas

Attendance: 3,764

Top man: Peter Haring

A celebration of Heaven and Hell. And everything in between!

Canadian circus stars and Fringe favourites, Cirque Alfonse – the creators that brought you the five-star, 2015 Fringe sell-out hit ‘Barbu’ – return to Edinburgh for a UK Premier of their brand-new show, ‘Tabarnak’.

Daring, raucous, eccentric and downright fun, Tabarnak combines edge-of-your-seat circus with crazy cabaret acts and a heart-thumping live score.

Inspired by the village church that was once the gathering place of the small Quebec community where company members grew up, Cirque Alfonse have created their newest production. A Quebecois expletive, which once formed a religious rebellious cry, ‘Tabarnak’ now acts as an invitation to audiences to come together in a contemporary circus congregation, to celebrate heaven, hell and everything in-between. And have a rollicking good time!

Venue – Udderbelly’s Circus Hub

Tickets and Times – https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/tabarnak

The Edinburgh International Festival 2018 began tonight with a modern light and sound production which harked back to the time a century ago when young men were still fighting in a world war.

Young people were a point of focus for the evening with many of them taking part as singers and musicians. They wore capes which were designed by Edinburgh College of Art students which are a modern day take on the uniforms worn by soldiers.

The music was powerful and emotional, the story told with colourful projections onto the exterior of the Usher Hall.

The inspiration came from the Imperial War Museum where Meredith found five types of communication and some of the ways that communication worked. She said : “It might be about redactions, about reducing text, about code, ways of encrypting text, or spin, hype and distortion. All these things have resonance now.

“It was hard to find a way in to this sensitive subject matter but we were in the museum looking at field postcards which the second movement is based on. These are heartbreaking little multiple choice postcards which the soldiers would send back nearly every day. These would say I am well, I am in hospital, I’ve been wounded. Those were the only options and if they wrote anything else it would be destroyed. There was something about the economy of that which got just thinking about the restrictions, and that spread into other ideas.”

2,750 artists from 31 nations will now play to audiences across Edinburgh this August.

Fergus Linehan told us that he starts his schedule in the Usher Hall with the Opening Concert on Saturday night which features the National Youth Choir of Scotland.

120 young singers will perform Haydn’s Creation.

The Edinburgh International Festival will run until 27 August 2018. But tonight was a great way to begin one of the greatest arts festivals.

I have to say I’m a big fan of Irvine Welsh. One of Scotland’s most gifted and forthright authors, his renowned tomes Trainspotting and Filth were also huge hits when the film versions were made. So, when I got the opportunity to review Filth on stage at TheSpace UK’s Perth Theatre in the Hilton Hotel on Edinburgh’s North Bridge I jumped at the chance.

Let me tell you straight away – I’m glad I did.

Directed by Anna Marshall, Jake W Francis gives an outstanding performance, which depicts sleaze, sex, racism, power and the abuse of just about everything.

This one-man stage show follows the book more closely than the film version. ‘Filth’ follows the story of Detective Sergeant Bruce Robertson, as he directs his way through a stream of idiots, while trying to achieve a promotion and win back his wife and daughter. If only he can control his drug problem, the voices in his head, his utter contempt towards everyone around him, and the tapeworm that has an even bigger appetite than him.

If you’ve read the book, you’ll know what to expect and Mr Francis certainly doesn’t disappoint. The intimate venue of the Perth Theatre lent itself to an intense atmosphere. There weren’t that many people in the audience – around 20 – but this was perhaps down to the first night and a plethora of other shows demanding people’s attention.

Small in number his audience may have been, but Jake W Francis certainly engaged with each and every one of them. I was hooked on his every word and it felt like he was an old mate speaking to me in a pub (not that I know anyone in a senior position in Police Scotland. Honestly…) And without giving too much away, be prepared for an emotional finale.

As you would expect from any adaptation of an Irvine Welsh novel there is strong language throughout and it’s not the sort of thing for those who are easily offended. But for sheer drama, passion and storytelling you’ll be hard pressed to find anything better at this year’s Fringe. And take note of the name Jake W Francis – here’s someone whose huge acting talent will surely take him far.

Filth is on at theSpace at North Bridge, Perth Theatre until 18th August (not 12th) at 7.35pm. Tickets here.

Edinburgh Reporter Review: ****

Hibs have announced date changes for two upcoming fixtures as a result of the Club’s progression in Europe.

The matches against St Johnstone and Ross County have changed date.

Hibs are playing Molde FK on Thursday 9 August at home and will travel to Norway for the second leg on Thursday 16 August.

Hibs’  Ladbrokes Premiership match at McDiarmid Park against St Johnstone will now take place on Sunday 12 August (3pm kick-off).

The following week, the  Betfred Cup Second Round tie against Ross County will be played at 3pm on Sunday 19 August.

In an all encompassing report relating to buses, trams, coaches, taxis and all forms of road traffic, the council is to look at ways of improving the use of public transport in Edinburgh.

The council’s Transport and Environment Committee will hear next week that officers are investigating ways of reducing congestion on the A90 and ensuring that bus lanes are observed. This will allow buses to access and use bus stops more easily and quickly.

The location of some bus stops across Edinburgh will be reviewed and the possibility of introducing a more uniform 400 metres between stops will be examined. The council says that Edinburgh has more bus stops than other cities of the same size, and that more stops means longer journey times. 20% of the bus stops in Edinburgh are less than 200 metres apart. Officers studied the number 16 bus route and have concluded that moving bus stops might save five minutes on the journey time from one end of the route to the other.

Any changes to bus stops would only be made after public consultation.

They will also look at including taxis in the type of traffic which is allowed to use bus gates at Marshall Street, Candlemaker Row and The Shore.

The council aims to prioritise public transport over other forms of traffic on the city streets, but in recent times bus journeys have become longer owing to congestion. As a result of meetings with tram, bus and taxi operators they now want to introduce certain measures which will improve bus journey times. 

In the last 12 years bus journeys in Edinburgh have increased by 12% which adds to the bus company’s overheads. Fewer stops would cut these costs.  Average speed on the network has decreased by 7.7% in the same period. Some of this relates to the fact that more people in Edinburgh use buses (which goes against the national trend) but the council believes most of it is due to congestion.

BUS LANES

Bus operators want changes to the hours during which bus lanes operate. This was changed only two years ago and now bus lanes are only in force at peak times, but it was agreed that this would be kept under review. It does not seem that there is an easy answer, as bus lanes lead to removal of loading bays which in turn is a problem for businesses. But the council will look at using cameras to enforce bus lanes in more areas of the city.

On the A90 the council will work with other authorities in the City Region Deal area to improve ways of getting into Edinburgh from neighbouring areas such as Fife. Officers say that a study of traffic including public transport on this route is required.

The council also plans what it calls ‘major interventions’ at Newbridge, Gogar Roundabout and Maybury Junction to deal with increased traffic using the A8 to come into the capital. Other areas which will come under scrutiny include Niddrie Mains Road and Drum Brae North, Blackhall and Barnton junctions.

TRAMS 

In the five years since they started operating Edinburgh Trams have made changes to speeds on the off road sections of the line. This has resulted in reducing the end to end journey time by 7 minutes.

The council has rationalised traffic signals in the city centre and trams slot into these so that they do not impede other road users significantly.

But other road users have caused difficulties for the tram by travelling on tram only areas near tram stops, and Edinburgh Trams has asked for cameras to protect these areas.

The report suggests that while many people use Park and Ride facilities, there is little in the way of funding available to increase capacity at any of the sites. Ingliston’s 1080 car parking spaces are often full. Unofficial park and ride locations just next to controlled parking areas will also come under some scrutiny, with the possibility of extending the parking restrictions to deal with the problem of commuters and holidaymakers leaving their cars near bus or tram routes.

One further area which officers are examining is Dalmeny Train Station where the growth in population in South Queensferry means an increase in commuter traffic. A possible bus link from Kirkliston to Dalmeny is to be investigated along with more cycle racks and lockers.

The news that all Hibs’ fans have been waiting on has finally arrived, Jamie Maclaren has re-joined the club from SV Darmstadt 98 on a season-long loan deal.

Head Coach Neil Lennon suggested that a deal was close after last night’s draw in Greece so it’s been a nervous wait for the supporters who took him to their hearts last season following his partnership with Florian Kamberi.

The Australian international initially joined Hibs on loan in January for the second half of the 2017/18 season from the German club, playing 15 times and scoring eight goals – including a hat-trick against Rangers on the last day of the campaign.

After that match he made it plain that he did not want to return to Germany and Easter Road would be his preferred option however most fans suspected that his future lay elsewhere.

Now, the striker who was part of the Australia squad for the World Cup in Russia is delighted to be coming back to Leith after enjoying his time at the Club in the first half of 2018.

He told the club website: “A few factors drove me to come back. With the success that we had last season it just breeds confidence throughout the squad and, for me, scoring goals was important.

“After having the World Cup experience I want to kick on. This is the best club for me to be at to kick on.

“I think having a manager like Neil Lennon who backs me and every player in the squad, that’s who you want to play for. And the fans have also been on at me on social media since the break, so it’s nice to be wanted and valued.

“I’m just glad I’m here.”

MacLaren is eligible for Hibs’ Ladbrokes Premiership match against Motherwell on Sunday and the UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round tie against Molde FK.

The council wants to have vehicle free days in Edinburgh on the first Sunday of every month as part of a radical shake up of vehicles accessing our city centre.

In an effort to really make changes to transport in the city centre the council is working on three areas at once – the City Mobility Plan, Low Emission Zones and The Edinburgh City Centre Transformation.

They will seek the public’s views on all of this in one single consultation which will run for eight weeks from September. The report which will be considered by the Transport and Environment Committee next week is said to have the full support of all political parties.

The transport convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes is very positive about the new ideas and particularly the City Centre Transformation which is headed up by Deputy Director of Sustrans, Daisy Narayanan.

Councillor Macinnes told The Edinburgh Reporter : “We have already undertaken a lot of consultation and done an enormous amount of information gathering.

“There is a lot packed into all of this. The key stage is that we now want the public’s views. What is exciting is the vision that this represents, and there is a lot of context in the report which shows that the status quo is not enough for Edinburgh. Now it is all about the nature of the change, and there will be all sorts of possibilities opened up.

“People will get to understand the strains and challenges that the city faces during this consultation process. It’s very much about finding out how much of the vision people want and what we need to do to deliver that.

“The transformational approach would allow us to implement bigger actions with more impact. The project is a clear indicator of where this council administration wants to go to. This is an encapsulation of everything we as an administration have been talking about quite openly until now.”

EXCERPT FROM THE REPORT 

“A transformational approach would involve a radical rethink of how the citymoves and operates.The City Centre would become a largely traffic free zone with controls in place to allow for essential traffic and with pedestrian priorityin the city, town, and local centres.

You would be able to go to, but not through the city centre. A series of hubs could be developed where buses would drop off and other forms of less impactful transport would take over.

Pavements would be significantly widened and public spaces improved. Keystreets would be pedestrianised.

There would be strategic walking routes and segregated cycle routes across thecity with a citywide way nding network to guide pedestrians around the city.

Public transport could be fully integrated with smart contactless payment for use across all public transport services. New park and ride interchanges could be provided at key points around the city with a series of new bus priority corridors linked to them.

Urban & regional consolidation centres would be created for freight rationalisation, and green onward travel with last mile delivery hubs served by electric cargo bikes or electric vans.”

There are fifteen ideas set out in the report which the council want to develop following consultation. These include making the city centre more walkable, encouraging the use of clean vehicles and controlling commuter parking.

You can read them all here :

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Following discussions with bodies known as stakeholders earlier this year the council now has a strategy to take to the public and will seek their views on what can be done to improve the way we all get about the city centre.

This report which landed in our inbox late this afternoon and which will be available on the council website shortly runs to 61 pages and is entitled Edinburgh : connecting our city, transforming our places.

The three projects will set out a framework within which a strategy for the way that our future transport networks is shaped and the way that the civic, cultural and economic vibrancy of the city centre is protected and improved.

The council wants to ensure that the city centre has cleaner, better transport and will work with The Scottish Government to ensure the the Low Emission Zone planned for Edinburgh is delivered.

The transformation of the city centre will hinge on active travel and an improved public realm. With a population which is growing all the time, and which will reach almost 600,000 by 2040, the way that people get around is crucial and the council says it will prioritise public transport over private car use.

The public will be asked about some ideas to reduce car dominance in the city and how to create integrated transport access for all areas of Edinburgh. Some of the ideas propose integrated ticketing and creation of new civic spaces.

To improve public health the council wants to promote clean fuels and vehicles, thus improving air quality. There will be an emphasis on active travel and electric vehicle charging points, with more walking and cycling networks proposed.

This is a bold new plan for an ancient city such as ours. We will peruse it in more detail and highlight more of the proposals when we can. 

Joanna Cherry QC MP for Edinburgh South West visited Health in Mind’s Wellbeing Gateway this week.

She said : “Experiencing a mental health problem, particularly for the first time, can be frightening and confusing. It can be impossible for those struggling with a mental health issue to know where and how to access the services required for their recovery. Health in Mind’s Wellbeing Gateway is a vital service for constituents of Edinburgh South West because it provides information and support for people who otherwise might not know where to turn.”

The Wellbeing Gateway provides adults living in South West Edinburgh the chance to speak privately with a Health in Mind staff member about what’s happening in their lives and to discuss services and activities within the community that may help to further improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Amanda Hunter, Wellbeing Gateway Development Worker said : “Those who attend the Wellbeing Gateway will leave with a greater understanding of their mental health and wellbeing needs and an increased knowledge of community support and services.

“If you are feeling low or stressed and want to make changes to your life then 30 minutes at the Wellbeing Gateway might be time well spent.”

The Wellbeing Gateway is open every Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am at Tynecastle Community Wing, McLeod Street, EH11 2ND.

For further information visit www.health-in-mind.org.uk or call 0131 243 0137.

A Contemporary take brought to this year’s EIF

It’s midsummer weekend in Edinburgh. It’s raining. Two thirty-somethings are sitting in a New Town bar waiting for something to turn up.

David Greig and Gordon McIntyre’s exquisite miniature Midsummer is expanded and enlarged with a live band bringing to life its heart warming songs and irresistible humour, in residence at The Hub throughout the International Festival. First staged in 2008 before touring internationally to phenomenal acclaim, Midsummer is a streetwise romcom that turns a midlife crisis into a dance of freedom and proves that it’s never too late for any of us to change.

Edinburgh-born David Greig is one of Britain’s most respected and admired playwrights, as well as Artistic Director of the city’s Royal Lyceum Theatre. Edinburgh-based Gordon McIntyre is a founding member of Scottish indie band Ballboy which forms an integral part of the story, filling the room with bold new versions of the play’s original songs and music.

This contemporary version of Midsummer stars Henry Pettigrew, Sarah Higgins, Benny Young and Eileen Nicholas.

Venue – The Hub

Performance dates – 2-26 August 2018

Tickets available from – https://www.eif.co.uk/whats-on/2018/midsummer

…to an Underbelly Circus Hub near you.

Back to the Fringe, the UK’s hottest circus company, BMT, repeat the success of their international smash-hits BROMANCE and KIN in this red-hot, five-star piece of circus, combining show-stopping acrobatics with the emotional punch of theatre.

Shift is an astonishing gravity-defying show featuring cyr wheel, hand to hand, acrobatics and circus, using apparatus in ways you didn’t think possible!

Shift was premiered at the 2018 Norfolk and Norwich Festival.

BMT are at the Underbelly Circus Hub

Dates, Times and Tickets – https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/shift

The country’s hottest fire dog is set to go viral today with the launch of his own Twitter account.

Diesel – filmed here in protective “doggles” – will tell his fans about how he works to protect Scotland’s communities.

And it is expected the Springer Spaniel will further assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to reach out to followers with safety advice.

Diesel’s expertise is also called upon at major disasters around the world where he has used his outstanding urban search and rescue skills to locate casualties in collapsed buildings.

Deputy Chief Officer Iain Bushell said: “There is no doubt whatsoever that Diesel is the hottest looking search and rescue dog in Scotland with his doggles and his booties.

“But these pieces of equipment are absolutely vital to protect this outstanding and highly valued member of our team.

“They enable Diesel to enter some of the most hostile environments, not only reaching casualties but helping protect his firefighter colleagues as they work in risk zones.

“It is crucial that we have this capability as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service enhances wherever possible its response to major incident and also seeks to transform to meet modern risks such as terror attack.”

He added: “It is clear that Diesel is held in the very highest regard not only by ourselves but by the Scottish public – he is indeed a very good boy.

“I am therefore delighted that he is being given a platform to outline his fantastic work, key safety advice and even a picture with his beloved play ball – the only reward he ever asks in return … although I think he’ll now be looking for a follow on twitter too.”

Diesel is a vital member of the SFRS Urban Search and Rescue’s (USAR) National Response and is deployed anywhere across Scotland with his dedicated handler, Gary Carroll.

The pair are also part of a specialised UK International Search and Rescue (UKISAR) team which can be mobilised across the world at a moments’ notice.

They assisted at the devastating Nepal earthquake which sadly claimed the lives of thousands of people and injured countless others.

It is therefore vital that Diesel – who can travel by helicopter to carry out search and rescue missions across Scotland or abroad –  is kitted out with protective equipment.

The doggles help to shield his eyes from dust and debris thrown up by landing and hovering aircraft while the special booties protect his paws from rubble and glass as he searches collapsed buildings.

SFRS K9 handler Gary is a Crew Manager based at Portlethen, Aberdeenshire.

He said: “We are a single service providing an unrestricted response to emergencies occurring anywhere in Scotland – and beyond – if requested to assist.

“Diesel and I have worked together for many years in some of the most challenging environments, and there is no doubt whatsoever that he is integral to that response.

“We have an incredible bond and he is a very special wee dog – and to the point where we think he really does deserve his own dedicated online account.

“It will provide everyone with a real insight into not only how he is trained and his serious capability but also how he likes to spend some down time playing with his ball.”

Follow Diesel on twitter by searching @SFRSdog

Canadian pianist Ron Davis has enlisted the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra’s drummer, Alyn Cosker and award-winning singer, violinist and BBC Radio Scotland jazz presenter Seonaid Aitken for his band SymphRONica’s latest visit to the Fringe.

Toronto-based Davis, who formed SymphRONica in 2003 using diverse line-ups including jazz trio and full symphony orchestra, has appeared on the Edinburgh Fringe with the current octet version of the band for the past two years and is particularly excited to be
playing at the new Pianodrome venue in the Botanics.

“The Fringe is crazy, with so many shows all vying for the audience’s attention, but at the same time, there’s an energy about Edinburgh in August that makes you want to be part of this mad, fantastic festival,” says Davis. “Just being around so much talent and creativity can inspire you to try and take your music onto a new level.”

Following a series of symphony orchestra concerts, Davis decided to create a band that would allow him to blend the classical music he trained in with the jazz that was, and is, his
passion without requiring a massive budget.

“I chose an octet comprising a string quartet with an electro-acoustic jazz quartet – piano, guitar, bass and drums – because I wanted to give all the players an input, and this configuration allows that,” he says. “I also liked the idea that, as an octet, we could include different styles of music and switch from a jazz standard or something based on I Got Rhythm to a folk tune more naturally than with an orchestra and yet still have a certain richness of sound.”

Seonaid Aitken, who plays violin with the hot club styled Rose Room, winners of the Best Band title at this year’s Scottish Jazz Awards, will be playing viola with SymphRONica in a line-up that includes Davis’ long-time guitarist, and one of Canada’s finest, Kevin Barrett
and violinist Aline Homzy.

“As well as playing in the string quartet, Seonaid will also be singing, which gives us an extra dimension,” says Davis, who is enthusiastic about meeting up with both Aitken and Cosker, the latter having worked with SymphRONica on their two previous Edinburgh Fringe
runs.

“Generally we travel with a core of Kevin, Aline and myself and pick up musicians locally, and we’ve been lucky to get players with the vision to make the music happen,” says Davis. “But Alyn went beyond that. When we played the first number in rehearsal, Kevin and I looked at each other and mouthed ‘Wow.’ We didn’t have to tell Alyn what we wanted because he just made it his own. We’ve developed some new music for the new album, UpfRONT, which is due in October, since we last worked together and we can’t wait to hear how Alyn makes that sound.”

Ron Davis’ plays with SymphRONica at Stockbridge
Church, Edinburgh (3- 4 and 17 August);  Scottish Arts Club,
Edinburgh 8, 10, 16, 18 August); and Leith Depot, Edinburgh (13,
14, 15 August) and with Aline Homzy and Kevin Barrett at the Pianodrome
on 15 August (lunchtime).

Very Reverend Albert Bogle was Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland a couple of years ago, but he has always used music as a way of getting people involved in the church in any small way.

Now he is bringing the Bogle Band to the Vine Trust Barge in Prince of Wales Dock Leith on 11 and 12 August. The aim is to highlight the work of the Vine Trust which provides healthcare and other support for orphans in Peru and Tanzania. The events are free but limited to 70 people with tickets available on Eventbrite.

Mr Bogle said he is excited to be hosting the event on the charity’s barge.

“When I was a parish minister in Bo’ness I was privileged to  participate in the  creation of  Vine Trust, Sanctuary First and the Bogle Band as part of our congregation’s  ministry and I am delighted they continue to evolve and to support each other.

“I hope people from all walks of life will come along to enjoy a wonderful evening of stories and songs while also learning something about the Vine Trust and Sanctuary First.”

The Vine Trust, whose patron is HRH The Princess Royal, sent its second medical volunteer ship to Peru last year. The trust has sent another medical ship, the Jubilee Hope, to Tanzania’s second-largest city Mwanza on Lake Victoria. It also plans to commence building a village in Tanzania to care for orphaned children who have lost their parents to the AIDS virus.

The Vine Trust is a great example of a Charity enabling the church to partner with businesses, healthcare workers and the wider community to make a big difference in the lives of some of the world’s poorest citizens, Mr Bogle added.

“We are now looking for volunteers to help build the village.

“Next year I hope to lead two ‘vision trips’—one to Tanzania and if there is enough interest, another to Peru.

“These kinds of visits enable people who are interested in supporting our work to understand the issues facing communities in developing countries. They will have fantastic opportunities to see the medical ships in action and to witness the start of the village building programme.”

“In the past I have accompanied people from the corporate world and also from churches. Parish ministers, elders and CEOs are among those who have come out to see the work and have returned as valuable ambassadors for the poor.

“This is an opportunity for people to be inspired and to see how charities, Churches and industry working together can make a real difference at a local and global level.

“I also hope that people will be interested in how our Sanctuary First ministry is connecting through the internet with people who may not be connected to a church but are exploring new ways to express their faith.”

If music be the food of love, you can have you cake and eat it – take your ice-pick. Autumnal mellow melodrama and on the edge of your seats frightfulness is a guaranteed given as casting for both Touching the Void and Twelfth Night is announced. It heralds the first two-production partnership between leading regional theatrical powerhouses, Bristol Old Vic and The Lyceum, Edinburgh.

Two of modern theatre’s greatest storytellers – Bristol Old Vic’s Artistic Director Tom Morris and Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh’s Artistic Director David Greig – work together for the first time on world premiere Touching the Void. Rising stars Josh Williams and Edward Hayter will play climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates respectively in this world premiere.

Twelfth Night will open The Lyceum’s 2018/19 season before transferring to Bristol Old Vic as the second autumn co-production between the two theatres.

Tom Morris (The Grinning Man, Swallows & Amazons, War Horse) will direct the first stage version of Touching the Void, adapted by David Greig (The Events, The Suppliant Women, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory).

This production marks the first time the two Artistic Directors have creatively collaborated and marks the 30th anniversary of the publication of Joe Simpson’s best-selling memoir, charting his battle back from the brink of death on the treacherous Siula Grande Mountain.

Alongside this struggle is the appalling dilemma of his climbing partner Simon Yates, perched on an unstable snow-cliff, clinging onto the rope tying him to the severely injured Joe. Unable to recover Joe from the void, Simon is faced with the agonising decision to cut the rope that binds them…

Twelfth Night
The second co-production between the award-winning theatres will be Shakespeare’s perfect comedy Twelfth Night, will be directed by The Lyceum’s Associate Artist Wils Wilson (The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other, Cockpit, The Lyceum; The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart, National Theatre of Scotland; Scuttlers, Manchester Royal Exchange).

This gender-bending interpretation, widely considered to be one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies, stars award-winning comedy and cabaret performance artist Christopher Green as ‘Malvolio’. Christopher is best-known for his enduring and endearing characters Tina C and Ida Barr, and experimental theatre works such as Office Party, VIP, The Razzle and This Show Has No Name.

He is joined by Jade Ogugua as ‘Viola’ (How to Act, National Theatre of Scotland; The Barnbow Canaries, West Yorkshire Playhouse; The Tempest, Northern Stage and Oxford Playhouse) and Colette Dalal Tchantcho as ‘Orsino’ (Eddie and the Slumber Sisters, National Theatre of Scotland and Catherine Wheels; In My Own Words, Complicité).

Speaking earlier in the week, David Greig said: “It is a real pleasure to be working with Bristol Old Vic on these two very different plays, and a joy to be in partnership with a theatre that absolutely shares both our delight in adventure and our love of classic theatre.”

https://lyceum.org.uk/whats-on/production/touching-the-void

https://lyceum.org.uk/whats-on/production/twelfth-night

The ghosts and cast of Tall Stories’ World Premiere production of Oscar Wilde’s chilling tale, THE CANTERVILLE GHOST visited Blair Street Underground Vaults in Edinburgh today to launch the show, which plays at The Pleasance Courtyard throughout the festival.

At the vaults the ill-fated Otis family found themselves encountering more than just The Canterville Ghost, as the spooky surroundings set the tone for their time in Edinburgh.

Four Vaudevillian performers tell Wilde’s most gruesome tale through magic, ventriloquism and comedy with original music.

When the Otis family move into Canterville Hall, they’re warned about the fearsome ghost that stalks its corridors. But the Otis family are a thoroughly modern bunch. Has anyone warned the Canterville Ghost about them?

A darkly comic and marvellously musical show from award-winning theatre company Tall Stories.

www.pleasance.co.uk/event/canterville-ghost

To celebrate National Play Day, Edinburgh Pentlands MSP, Gordon Macdonald, joined locals at Clovenstone Community Centre, to mark the importance of children’s right to play, with everything from ‘loose parts play’ and street arts to water play and a messy baby paint zone.

National Play Day involved thousands of children and their families out and about, playing at hundreds of community events across the country. From local community events to national events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday takes many different shapes to allow everyone to take part. As well as the events, organised by Play Scotland, National Play Day is a campaign that underlines the importance of play in children’s lives.

Gordon joined Clovenstone Community Centre’s Play Day (today) which brought local organisations together – including loose parts play provided by the City of Edinburgh Council, a pop up kitchen with Tasting Change, drumming with Dads rock, sensory baby zone with Starcatchers, Street Arts, natural play with edible estates and Bookbug with Wester Hailes Library. North Edinburgh Arts also participated, holding a Picnic and Play
event.

Gordon said: “We all have great childhood memories of playing with friends, a lot of the memories being outdoors. Playing is something you are born into, it’s how you learn and express your creativity. The benefits to the health and wellbeing of children are crystal clear – when you see the smiles and hear the laughter of children playing together.

“National Play Days, like the one I went to at Clovenstone Community Centre, gives children and families a chance to get out and play safely in streets and local neighbourhoods – getting to know new people in your area and strengthening the community.”

University of Edinburgh research will improve warnings and forecasts of extreme weather and natural disasters worldwide.

In a new partnership with Orbital Micro Systems (OMS) the Univeristy will process information to analyse weather for public and commercial bodies across the globe.The International Centre for Earth Data will use small satellite technology from OMS, taking data from 40 satellites each the size of a shoebox. Using updates on worldwide conditions every fifteen minutes they will use temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure to produce more accurate forecasts.

OMS will have space in the Bayes Centre, the hub for expertise in data science and technology which is about to open. Working with researchers in computing, geosciences and informatics they will design data and analytics technology. The researchers will also work with The University of Colorado Boulder.

This will allow researchers to provide forecasts in near real-time assisting those working in insurance, agriculture, aviation and shipping.

Professor Mark Parsons, Associate Dean for e-Research at the University of Edinburgh, said: “Our expertise in data science means we are perfectly placed to support the sophisticated production of regular and reliable weather information for recipients around the world.”

William Hosack, Chief Executive Officer of Orbital Micro Systems, said: “Output from the International Center for Earth Data will impact the lives of hundreds of millions of people around the world through applications relevant to everyday life – such as improved crop yields, safer route planning for flights and shipping, and better land management where forest fires, landslides, and other natural disasters are prevalent. We’re delighted to join forces with the University of Edinburgh and our partners at the University of Colorado to deliver solutions that will have a profound impact on all aspects of humanity.”

Sport and the arts don’t often mix but this month Scotland is hosting the European Championships and the Edinburgh International Festival.  Both are now big business and I like to argue they are the “industries” of the future.

Spending on sport is estimated to be around £2.5bn a year and already it employs 3 per cent of the workforce – more than agriculture and fishing. The Edinburgh festivals are worth £250m to the Edinburgh economy alone, creating over 5,500 jobs.

Following on from the Commonwealth Games in 2014, Glasgow now co-hosts with Berlin a new fixture on the sporting calendar, the European Championships.  Gymnastics, swimming, diving at the Royal Commonwealth Pool here in the capital, rowing, cycling, dance, triathlon and golf are being held in Scotland, while Berlin is hosting the athletics.  Over 4,500 athletes from 52 nations are taking part.

Meanwhile, in Edinburgh the 71^st Arts Festival and the Fringe are getting under way with over 3,500 shows in 300 different venues.  The population of the city famously doubles during the month of the festival.  A footfall count in Princes Street last year recorded 45,000 people using the pavement every day. There are serious fears that the city is becoming over-crowded and it’s not being helped by the annoying habit of builders and gas and water companies deciding that Festival time is the best opportunity to dig up the roads.

As ever, the biggest actor is the weather. So far, the heat wave has lasted two months – indeed there are concerns over water shortages in the North East.  But the weather in Scotland is  an unreliable companion.  Last weekend’s Mela Festival in Aberdeen had to be cancelled because of rain and high winds.  Ideally, we need the sport and arts events to be spared and the rest of the country to be deluged.

But whatever happens, Glasgow is ready for the rain. A new giant sewer come into operation this week.  It’s a three-mile long tunnel cut under the south side of the city to prevent flooding and improve what they are discreetly calling “environmental conditions”.  It cost £100m and has taken 100 workers two years to build. But when the rains come, it will be worth it.

Glasgow has been in the news for a less wholesome reason this week.  The firm providing housing for some 5,000 asylum seekers in the city, Serco, issued eviction notices to 300 people and announced it will be changing the locks on their doors in the next few weeks.  The company says it can no longer afford to provide free accommodation after the Home Office in London stopped paying rent for people whose application for asylum has been turned down.

It’s led to a chorus of protest from MPs and church leaders who say it will lead to a “humanitarian crisis”.  But no one is courageous enough to say what should happen to failed asylum seekers.  Meanwhile, two Afghan men have been staging a hunger strike outside the Home Office building in Glasgow. One of them has been in Scotland for the last 12 years.  Clearly there is something wrong with the system.

There’s more worrying news from the High Street.  Aulds the family bakery which has been supplying pies and pasties to the West of Scotland for the past 118 years has announced it’s to close 26 of its shops –  though its two factories will continue supplying other outlets.  And Jenners, the oldest department store in Scotland (founded in 1838) and pride of Princes Street in Edinburgh, is in danger of closing.  It was taken over by House of Fraser in 2005 which in turn was taken over by Hamleys, which in its turn is now desperately seeking a new investor or it is feared all its stores will close.

We said a sad farewell this week to one of the true gentlemen of Scottish politics, Sir Alex Fergusson, one of the few Conservatives who genuinely believed in the devolved Scottish Parliament.  In fact he was its Presiding Officer from 2007 to 2011.  He was a farmer in Galloway and never lost his footing in the community he came from. Politicians on all sides have been praising his dedication and integrity.  His death was an occasion to remember that politics is a noble profession followed, generally, by people who want to make the world a better place.

Finally, Scotland has acquired its first official vexillologist, which I have now learnt is a term invented in the 1950s from the Latin word for flag.  Philip Tibbetts has been appointed to the honorary post by the Lord Lyon, the man in charge of heraldry in Scotland.

Mr Tibbetts’ job will be to help communities design an appropriate local flag. He’s already succeeded in having two flags officially recognised by the Lord Lyon, those for Caithness and Kirkcudbright. His advice is “keep it simple”.

I think Edinburgh’s flag should be just plain white as we surrender to the hordes of Festival goers.

Edinburgh has a 27 km coastline according to Edinburgh Shoreline who are researching it from South Queensferry to Joppa.

They hope to inspire locals to discover the history as well as the flora and fauna, so inspiring people to think more about the area fronting the Forth and what its future might look like.

At the Botanics there is a major exhibition running until 23 September 2018 at the John Hope Gateway where you can learn a bit more.

Funded by Heritage Lottery Fund and the Green Infrastructure Community Engagement Fund and part of Edinburgh Living Landscape run by the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh Shoreline mapping team is hosting a drop in event in the Washhouse, Portobello on Tuesday 7 August 2018 between 4pm and 7pm.

This is the second of five events to explore how Edinburgh’s coastal communities engage with their 27 km of shoreline.  The information gathered will be used to inform an alternative map/artwork of the coast.

If you have any questions in the meantime contact bergschotten@gmail.com

For information on the project click here.

On 8 August the Big Comedy Benefit at Edinburgh International Conference Centre will give you the opportunity of seeing eight Fringe acts all at one time, as well as raising money for charity.

The two hour long Big Comedy Benefit will raise money for the charity which tries to support children and young people across the country.

Jordyn Armstrong, Events Manager for Barnardo’s Scotland said: “Tickets for some fringe shows like Britain’s Got Talent winner Lost Voice Guy and television favourite Russell Howard are already sold-out so the only place you can see them perform is at our show.

“We think we’ve got an amazing line-up for visitors attending The Fringe; we really appreciate everyone’s support and are grateful to all of the comedians for making time in their schedule to perform at our Comedy Benefit.”

Barnardo’s Scotland Director Martin Crewe said: “This is always a really fun event and this year’s line-up looks fantastic.  It’s a great opportunity to see some of the best acts from this year’s Fringe and the money which is raised really will make a difference to the lives of thousands of vulnerable children, young people, parents and carers we support across the country.”

All of the funds raised at the Comedy Benefit go to community-based services providing life-changing support to children and young people across Scotland.  Since its launch in 2012 the event has raised over £44,000, the charity is hoping this year to take that total in to the high £50,000s.

To find out more and book tickets visit www.barnardos.org.uk/comedybenefit