Hibernian Community Foundation has teamed up with The University of Edinburgh to create a Hibernian based SCQF course, ‘Football More than a Game’.

Professor Grant Jarvie and Jackie McNamara Sr meet up with some of the first intake of students.

Grant Jarvie said The course leader Grant Jarvie, Scotland’s first Chair in Sport and founder of Edinburgh’s Academy of Sport – Scotland’s first Global Sports Observatory explained “Three years ago when the Edinburgh launched the first massive open online courses on football  the original intention was to be able to deliver education through football in local communities  – many of which are in original heartlands of Scottish football,  for men, women, boys and girls”

The course will introduce you to the game of football and some of the issues facing the game.  The course will use information about the origins and development of Hibernian Football Club as basis of learning about football finances; football data; football history; football for all and football for health. It encourages you to reflect upon issues affecting the game, how you make sense of them, what evidence and data is available, and what some of the solutions might be.

Most importantly it asks why and if football is more than a game and if Hibernian Football Club is more than just a football club.  In order to answer such questions, it is important to think about the broader contribution that football can and does make.

Week 1 – Introduction, Football History and the Making of Hibs

Week 2 – Football Finances and the Hibernian Football Club

Week 3 – Football for All, Community and the Hibs Family

Week 4 – Champions, Rivalries, Derby’s and Great Football

Week 5 – Football for Health, Football Memories and Fitness

Week 6 – Football More than a Game: Why?

Week 7 – Football Futures and Hibs Football Club

Course Lecturers: Professor Grant Jarvie; Neil Speirs and Stephen Morrow

Start date: Monday 6 November 2017

Times: 10:00 – 11:30

Weeks 1-7

Venue: Hibernian Community Foundation Learning Centre (South Stand)

To apply contact kmcewan@hiberniancommunityfoundation.org.uk

Call: 0131 656 7062

Police have released  CCTV images of a male they wish to trace in connection with a serious assault which occurred on Oxgangs Road North around 9.30 p.m. on Monday 9th October 2017.

A 15-year-old boy was with friends when he was seriously assaulted by an unknown male.

It is believed the male pictured will be able to assist the investigation and they or anyone who recognises them is asked to come forward.

Detective Constable Emma Wilkinson from Corstorphine CID said: “The victim suffered a serious injury as a result of this attack and was understandably shaken.

“We are appealing for anyone who can help us locate this male to get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or make an anonymous report through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

An Edinburgh student has landed himself his dream job after dazzling during a placement working with a famous charitable institution.

Scott Binnie, a fourth year Marketing Management student at Edinburgh Napier University, initially undertook a six-month placement with the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd).

Now, the organisation has made the decision to offer Scott a permanent part-time role, as Marketing Assistant, while he completes his fourth year at University after he went above and beyond the highest expectations to be a real asset to the team.

As part of his new role, Scott will be on the panel helping RCSEd Commercial Enterprises rebrand to Surgeon’s Quarter along with his manager Moira Walker, Marketing Manager, and Scott Mitchell, Commercial Director.

Scott said: “Just like any student who takes on a placement or internship with a company I was pretty wary when I started, just in case I didn’t enjoy marketing outside the lecture theatres and classrooms. Luckily that fear didn’t become a reality – and my time with Moira and the team at the College just confirmed to me that marketing is exactly what I want to do.

“Thanks to the great support, chances to learn and lots of opportunities offered to me I had thoroughly enjoyed my placement and found it extremely valuable. I even got to help with three different campaigns, so I was overjoyed when I was offered a job.

“I can’t wait to help the company, especially with the rebrand, as it is a very exciting time, and will no doubt prove to be very interesting and allow me to gain hands on experience and knowledge of further complex aspects of marketing.”

Scott is the fifth student to be involved at RCSEd thanks to a long-standing relationship between the university and the company.

Moira Walker, Marketing Manager with RCSEd Commercial Enterprises said: “From day one Scott got hands on and has proven himself to be a real team player, eager to learn and help wherever he could. As the company is continually growing and we are about to go through the process of a rebrand we knew Scott’s attitude and knowledge would be immensely beneficial to the team.

“We have taken on a number of students from Edinburgh Napier University as we are always keen to help students gain real industry experience – and we will continue to welcome a student to our team whenever it is possible.”

Launched in 2006, the Commercial Enterprises was tasked with making the most of the institution’s impressive buildings, with all the profits being invested back into the College, to train surgeons and surgical trainees who deliver life-changing skills and improve patient outcome to every corner of the world.

The collection of buildings situated around the historic Hill Square will become known as Surgeons Quarter. The rebranding will allow for the area to be a recognised destination and highlight the scale of the venues within it.

Wester Hailes now has the very first ODEON Luxe with recliner seats and a luxury cinema experience. So that is one of the firsts.

The other is that the new Murder on the Orient Express was shown for the very first time at its World Premiere in London last night – and screened in Wester Hailes at the very same time.

Our very quick review?

The film is Kenneth Branagh at his very best. His Poirot moustache has to be seen to be believed, and almost has a life of its own.

With a cast that includes Dame Judi Dench and Penelope Cruz what can go wrong? Well, it seems quite a lot as there is murder involved!

The cinematography is beautiful and the film is one of the very best I have seen this year. With a plot that needs little introduction, you might ask why go and see a story you have seen before? The answer is that you have not seen it like this before.

And our other review is that this is now the best cinema experience in town. Parking at the door or a number 30 bus to Westside Plaza. Make your way to ODEON Luxe Edinburgh West. You will notice the difference in sound and vision. There is a coffee bar, a bar with drinks and pizza as well as all the usual cinema snacks.

Hibernian midfielder Scott Martin has joined Arbroath on loan until mid-January.

The 20 year old joins up with manager Dick Campbell, who was in charge of Forfar when Scott was on loan during the 2015-16 season.

Martin has started eight games and come off the bench on six occasions for the Hibernian first team, making his debut as a 17-year-old against Falkirk in 2014, and has scored once against Montrose in a 3-0 home victory over Montrose in the League Cup.

He was an unused substitute in Tuesday’s victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park however his first team chances have been limited due to the strength in depth of the squad.

A club spokesman said: “We would like to wish Scott well with his loan spell.”

Neil Lennon is delighted that defender Paul Hanlon has been called up to the Scotland squad for the Challenge match against the Netherlands next month.

The Northern Irishman believes that playing in the Championship for the past three years may have affected his chances but he is now showing his qualities in the top flight.

Interim boss Malky Mackay saw at first hand Hanlon’s ability during the Edinburgh derby win at Easter Road last week but Lennon insists that his performances have been excellent all season.

Lennon said: “I’m very pleased. I am delighted for him. It’s testament on how he has been playing this season. he has been really consistent and I think it’s overdue although he has been plying his trade in the Scottish Championship he has all the qualities at 27 to take his career on and this is obviously a forward step for him.

“I think everyone associated with the club, particularly the dressing room and the background staff are really pleased for him.

“He is a little bit different to what’s available and he has really good pace. Looking at him physically you wouldn’t think that he is a dominant type but the last few months his aerial prowess has been fantastic. His timing and defending at set plays and that sort of thing, his physicality has been excellent.

“Allied to that he is quick and well balanced. His handling of the ball ticks a lot of boxes for Scotland.

“His competition for Scotland are Christophe (Berra) and Charlie (Mulgrew) and Paul is a left sided centre half to accompany those two.

“Over the last year you have not seen too many defensive problems for Scotland so for Paul to be called up, it’s great news for him.”

Joining Hanlon in the squad is midfielder John McGinn, who was a regular in Gordon Strachan’s sides over the past 18 months, winning four caps in that period and former team mate Jason Cummings who left the club in the summer for Nottingham Forest.

The game against the Dutch will be played in Aberdeen on Thursday 9 November and will kick-off at 7:45pm.

National awards ceremony recognises local efforts to tackle climate change.

Community-led organisations from across Scotland gathered in Edinburgh yesterday (Wednesday 1 November) to celebrate the first ever Climate Challenge Fund Awards, organised by environmental charity, Keep Scotland Beautiful, on behalf of the Scottish Government.

The ceremony, which took place at Dynamic Earth, recognised the work undertaken by groups supported by the Fund that have taken local action to tackle climate change – including the efforts of two projects in Edinburgh – The Communities for Conservation project and The Edinburgh Creative Reuse Hub.

The Communities for Conservation project received the Energy Category Award for engaging diverse ethnic minority communities in Edinburgh to help improve home energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, fuel bills and fuel poverty. The project undertook a number of home energy efficiency advice visits and managed to reach out to a wide audience through workshops and running a drop-in centre.

The Waste Category Award was presented to the Edinburgh Creative Reuse Hub, run by Swap and Reuse Hub Cooperative. The project, led by the student community, was recognised for its collaborative approach to helping build a low carbon circular economy in the heart of the city. Its regular SwapShop, upcycling workshops and food sharing network has helped to significantly raise awareness of sustainability issues and solutions – whilst creating ways for the community to make big carbon savings.

The Climate Challenge Fund is a Scottish Government grants programme, managed and administered by Keep Scotland Beautiful, which provides funding and support for community groups to tackle climate change through community-led projects that reduce carbon emissions.

The hugely successful Climate Challenge Fund (CCF) has awarded grants totalling £85.8 million to 986 projects in 622 communities since its introduction in 2008, with projects involving energy efficiency, sustainable travel, local food and resource efficiency. The first ever CCF Awards ceremony recognised the work of funded projects which ran from April 2016 – March 2017. A map showing currently funded projects can be accessed here.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “It was great to see these inspirational projects getting the recognition they deserve, and I’d like to extend a big congratulations to all of those nominated.

“They are amongst the best of more than 100 local projects which benefited from £9.5 million of Scottish Government grants through the Climate Challenge Fund last year. That is money very well spent, as these projects have made a real difference to their local communities, and helped to drive change on a national level – to help combat a problem that affects all of us.”

Elizabeth Leighton, Chair of the CCF Awards Panel added: “On behalf of the CCF Awards Panel I would like to commend all the projects that entered the awards and congratulate the award winners.”

“The level of nominations for the Awards was of a high standard across the board and I thank the members of the CCF Awards Panel who worked together to select the award winning projects.”

The awards were presented by Dr Lindsay Montgomery CBE, Chairman of Keep Scotland Beautiful and Dave Coleman, Managing Director of the Carbon Literacy Project.

Dr Lindsay Montgomery commented: “The Climate Challenge Fund helps support communities from across the country to take much-needed local action to tackle climate change by making their climate change project ambitions a reality.

“Keep Scotland Beautiful is delighted to celebrate the commitment of all award nominees and present Communities for Conservation and The Edinburgh Creative Reuse Hub with the Energy and Waste Category Awards. I would like to commend them on their efforts.”

Dave Coleman added: “It was fantastic to meet so many community-led projects that have taken positive local action to tackle climate change: I congratulate all the award entrants and winners.

“We have worked closely with Keep Scotland Beautiful which has developed a two-day Carbon Literacy for Communities course for representatives of community-led organisations across Scotland, particularly those running Climate Challenge Fund projects. I was delighted to hear that a number of the award nominees have directly applied this training to help increase understanding of climate change in their communities and successfully identify ways to tackle it.”

Awards were presented at the ceremony for five categories; energy, travel, food and waste, plus a CCF Awards Panel Choice.

Staff prepare Museum for 5-Month Refurbishment Closure

Curators have been packing away hundreds of artefacts, including dolls, toy cars and an Emu Puppet (pictured), as the Museum of Childhood closes for refurbishment.

Opened in 1955 as the world’s first museum dedicated to the history of childhood, the star attraction relocated to its current position on the Royal Mile, in 1957 to accommodate the growing collection, and in 1986 the Museum expanded again into adjacent buildings.

In what is to be the first large scale change to the Museum for 30 years, the five-month refurbishment will see new cases, floors and lights installed and objects displayed that have not been seen in the Museum before.

The ground floor of the Museum will be opened into an interactive space, with dedicated zones focusing on memories of life at home, in school and at play. An area for film and a digital photo album will also be launched, focusing on how children have grown up in Edinburgh over the decades.

Councillor Donald Wilson, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “With over 225,000 visitors every year, the Museum is one of Edinburgh’s flagship venues. From dinky cars and teddy bears to school books and first shoes, the Museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 60,000 objects reflecting childhoods from the 18th century to the present day. This refurbishment will allow us to re-display some of these items, and tell the story of childhood in new ways.

“The result will be a new, open space for children and adults to explore, learn and play; with new interactive elements, hands-on history and film. We are hugely grateful to Museums Galleries Scotland and the Friends of Edinburgh City Art Centre and Museums for contributing towards this redevelopment, and look forward to opening again in March 2018.”

Gillian Findlay, Curatorial and Engagement Manager for Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, added: “The ground floor will be laid out very differently to the current space. Most of the objects in the current gallery have been on display for many years and now need a rest so they can be preserved for future generations. We will create a number of new and smaller displays, so that visitors can be more hands-on with history.”

The refurbishment is being led by Leith-based design practice, Studioarc, which aims to create a playful space for visitors.

Lyndsey Bowditch, Director of Studioarc, said: “As a listed 18th century building on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s Museum of Childhood is an exceptional space in itself. For years people have wandered through its many floors, gazing into cases crammed full of memories of childhood, but this refurbishment is an opportunity to broaden the venue’s appeal to a modern audience.

“We want to retain that wonderful element of nostalgia and the joy of exploring the Museum as visitors take a journey through childhood – but we are stripping it back, creating an open, fresh ground floor to give the amazing objects a proper space to shine. Studioarc’s design aims to promote playfulness, and to appeal to the curious child in all of us. We are delighted to be working on such a unique project with such broad appeal.”

The Museum will re-open in March 2018, and is a major event in the Council Museum Service’s programme for the Scottish Government’s themed Year of Young People.

Images courtesy of The City of Edinburgh Council

CAPS Independent Advocacy is holding an awareness event, in conjunction with Beat, the eating disorder charity on 14 November 2017.

The event will raise awareness of eating disorders, an often misunderstood mental health condition, as well as celebrating what the CAPS eating disorder project ‘Seen But Not Heard’ has achieved through different pieces of work.

It will be an evening of talks, musical performances and spoken word from volunteers involved in both CAPS and Beat projects.

It is a free event – and light refreshments will be provided. The event is taking place on Tuesday 14th November from 5.30 -8pm (performances starting at 6pm) in the Grassmarket Community Project Centre, Edinburgh.

To book a free place or for more information please contact Niamh at niamh@capsadvocacy.org

All are welcome – we hope to see you there!

Edinburgh’s flame-fatale songwriter, musician and pyro-femme live performer, Rachel Alice Johnson, shares the sonic shards of her little creative grey cells with The Edinburgh Reporter on the cusp of her latest opus – Coming Down Slowly.

Those of a nervous disposition – you have been warned, you will certainly have been warmed – too late to look away or not listen.

‘Coming Down Slow’ originated from a sombre piano ballad, documenting the intensities and eventual corrosion of love and affection. It’s alternative composition reflected a past relationship; the simplistic beginning echoed through the first minutes’s minimal vocal and drum line against the tainted repercussions depicted by the bass drop in the second half of the song.

‘I found parallels between the track and to that of Andy Warhol’s short film ‘The Kiss’ (1963), where Warhol exhibited an in-depth view of natural, every day behaviour between lovers. Being in slow motion, it resonated with me how much we replay motions in our minds from past relationships, over-analysing and critiquing actions that was once taken for granted, yet now lost.’

Rachel plays Edinburgh’s Sneaky Pete’s on November 8th

Ages of Wonder : Scotland’s Art 1540 to Now 4 November 2017 to 7 January 2018

Royal Scottish Academy The Mound EH2 2EL

#Ages of Wonder

This is a massive exhibition taking over the whole gallery from top to bottom, using works which were originally transferred to the Scottish National Gallery next door, and which have been borrowed back.

In the largest exhibition every mounted at the RSA you are bound to see something you have never seen before.

The partnership between the near neighbours the RSA and the National Gallery of Scotland features work from hundreds of artists over five centuries.

The various rooms follow a very rough chronological path from 1540 with The Adoration of the Kings by Jacopo Bassano to Callum Innes’s Exposed Painting Lamp Black. But mostly each gallery focuses on a subject such as architecture, 19th century print and photography and the changing methods of displaying art over the centuries.

In Gallery 3 the works are hung salon style from dado to ceiling in a manner which would have been used in the Victorian era. Everything from the masters to the Glasgow Boys is crammed into this gallery where we met artists John Byrne and Alison Watt who posed there for us.

In Gallery 4 Watt’s own contemporary work is on display along with that of other 21st century artists.

In Gallery 5 the 20th century is depicted by William McTaggart to Barbara Rae.

In Gallery 2 there are works from the 1910 Accord when works were transferred to the National Collection and the RSA gained the rights to the building they now occupy. These works sit alongside Kenny Hunter’s commission of Sir James Guthrie.

Every Thursday, in keeping with the Academy’s role as a teaching institution, there will be a live Life School in the upper galleries under the tutelage of John Byrne, George Donald, Jennifer McRae and Robert Rivers. In the lower galleries there will be etching and printing using ES Lumsden’s historic star wheel printing press. These two live galleries will then go on tour to Ayrshire and Linlithgow in January 2018.

Every academician has to submit a diploma work on being elected to the Academy, and work from every discipline on display is taken from the extensive collections held by the Academy. The Diploma collection is the core body of work held by the RSA which was established in 1826.

This is the first time in over a century that the RSA has brought together the 450 works by more than 270 artists and architects. Around 60 of the works are on loan from the NGS.

There are the usual books and accompaniments to go alongside the exhibition, and a range of essays from several Academicians and the curator of RSA Collections Sandy Wood.

We spoke with Sandy Wood who told us about the Academy and the exhibition which he co-curated with RSA President Arthur Watson. Sandy is so passionate about this exhibition and gave us a real explanation of where all the paintings and sculptures, photographs and other exhibits have come from.

Ages of Wonder at the Royal Scottish Academy from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

With the announcement earlier today that the Bank of England is putting up interest rates, the property market is perhaps the one which might be most affected.

Edinburgh Solicitors Property Centre (ESPC) sell many of the houses on the market in the capital.

Paul Hilton, CEO of ESPC, says: “Changes that have been brought in around mortgage affordability in recent years ensures this 0.25% interest rate rise shouldn’t be too impactful on borrowers. The days of irresponsible lending are over, and this small rise is unlikely to make a significant difference to overall lending, as this possibility of an increase would have been factored in by lenders. We’ve seen more people moving onto fixed rates which are now available over a longer term, and this indicates banks and building societies have confidence this won’t be the start of many further rises.

“This interest rate increase could also be potentially helpful in saving for a deposit, as banks may raise interest rates on savings account, which have been very low in recent years.”

David Lauder, an independent mortgage adviser at ESPC Mortgages, says:  “The rate rise is only 0.25% and whilst not great for borrowers it should not have a significant impact on most households, particularly ones who are on fixed rates and who will be unaffected by this for the time-being. We are still in very favourable borrowing times with rates and the Bank of England base rate is still well below what it has been historically. It is still generally a good time to have a mortgage and borrowing conditions remain above average market conditions.

“Clients on a variable rate will of course be affected. Now might be the time for them to review their re-mortgage requirements to see if something more stable would be more suitable for their needs. This will help them avoid being affected by any potential rises in the future, although it seems like any further increase will be small and slow in general.”

Edinburgh Capitals are looking to add to their group of Game Day Volunteers.

Volunteering, claims the club, is a great way to get involved in the Capitals’ family and be part of a fun and friendly community.

The Elite League club are looking for additional volunteers to help cover duties including a marketing assistant to help with content creation and with photo/video production and university promotions.

They are also seeking a technology assistant to help the equipment manager with general duties such as goal line technology on match nights

All volunteers must be over 18 years of age and if you are interested in volunteering and would like to find out more email amkotsyuba@edcapitals.com before November 10.

Include your name, date of birth, the role you are interested in and a few sentences on why you want to be a part of the Caps Game Day Volunteer Team.

A care home in Edinburgh has donated £200 to an exercise programme supporting vulnerable adults in the community at risk of having a fall.

David Holbrook, customer relations manager at Lauder Lodge, presented Steady Steps, part of Edinburgh Leisure, with the donation.

The 16-week programme involves weekly classes which focus on strength, flexibility and balance exercises, followed by the chance for participants to get together for a cup of tea.

The £5.5m, 60-bed care home, which incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and cafe, will welcome its first residents in December.

Mr Holbrook said: “We advocate activity-based care and encourage residents to stay active throughout their life, but we know all too well how common falls are amongst older people.

“Falls prevention is very important to the team and to the well-being of the residents, so we’re keen to support initiatives that help to prevent falls and promote a healthy, active lifestyle at any age.”

Amy Fastier, health development officer for Falls Prevention at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Our Steady Steps programme makes a real difference to the lives of our participants.

“We see people grow in balance confidence and increase their independence which also reduces risk of social isolation.”

Last year Bonfire Night in Edinburgh was a busy one, particularly for police officers working in the North of the city.

Officers saw an increase in antisocial behaviour and fireworks related calls, which resulted in extensive damage being caused to a police vehicle.

This year police  are asking members of the public to be vigilant for any antisocial behaviour and report any disturbances.

Officers also ask parents to know where their children are and what they’re doing and have issued the following advice.

Not only does illegal firework activity cause major disruption to local communities, it is also exceptionally dangerous for children to play with fireworks and set them off in an irresponsible manner.

It is illegal to supply fireworks to persons under the age of 18 and is also an offence for under 18’s to have fireworks in a public place.

Members of the public should never throw or set off a firework in the street, onto a road or in a public place.

Anyone caught causing a nuisance with fireworks will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal or the children’s Reporter as appropriate and any fireworks found on a person under 18 will be confiscated.

If you break the law on fireworks you could potentially face a prison sentence or receive a substantial fine.

Chief Inspector Stevie Sutherland, Local Area Commander for North West Edinburgh, said:  “Bonfire Night can be a lot of fun, but we would stress that this is best enjoyed at an organised display.

“However what we would ask is that if you know of young people participating in fireworks related anti-social behaviour please reach out to them and stop them before either hurt themselves or others, cause damage to public property or commit an offence.

“If you are aware of any anti-social behaviour happening in your area, please contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.  Alternatively you can anonymously get in touch with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Please visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s website for more information.

Grange carry a three-point lead in Division One into this weekend’s men’s field hockey fixtures.

They travel to lowly Uddingston on Saturday (15.00) but will take no chances following the Lanarkshire side’s shock result in their last outing.

Uddingston held Bromac Kelburne 4-4 after being 4-1 down and a Steven Percy penalty corner late-on stunned the champions.

Grange were the better side in their 4-1 victory at Peffermill over an Edinburgh University side containing five 18-year-old players.

David Knipe’s men capitalised on mistakes and he will hope to pressurise Uddingston this weekend to extend their unbeaten run to eight games.

Edinburgh University travel to Glasgow’s National Hockey Centre to face Kelburne (13.30), a match the students coach Graham Moodie is looking forward to.

He is keen to test his young side against the best and continue their learning process.

Bottom club Inverleith are at home to Dundee Wanderers at Peffermill at 4pm.

Coach Stuart Neave is desperate to end their seven game losing run and to register their first points since being promoted last season.

The other matches scheduled are Western Wildcats v Grove Menzieshill and Clydesdale v Hillhead.

Richard Hartmann has warned Braehead Clan not to underestimate Edinburgh Capitals on Saturday (6pm)

Hartmann was head coach of the Capitals for four years and Clan’s assistant coach told his men to forget that the Edinburgh club prop up the 12-strong Elite League.

The coach knows Capitals are difficult to play at Murrayfield because of their big ice surface.

Clan have misfired recently but Hartmann noted an improvement against Sheffield and Belfast and urged his men to take the positives from that.

The Glasgow side only have one game this weekend and Hartmann believes a win could turn a corner for the club.

Czech defenceman Michal Gutwald, a 24-year-old from Slany in the Czech Republic, should make his debut for the Glasgow side after being signed in mid-week.

Clan coach John Tripp said: “We’ve been looking at various different options for a while now and when Michal became available we decided to make a move.

“He’s a big body and we’ve been looking for some size to go at the backend, he’s young, wants to win and that’s something we’ve been looking to add.”

Tripp also confirmed that the signings may not stop there with the Clan looking to make further changes following their inconsistent start to the season.

He added: “I said after Sunday’s game that we obviously aren’t happy with where we are at. We are always looking for the players that we believe can make this team better.”

Simon Murray has now raised £1,000 for the Hibernian Community Foundation after yet another goal and ‘Simon Says’ celebration this time against Kilmarnock in the club’s 3-0 win at Rugby Park on Tuesday night.

Each time Murray preforms the supporter voted celebration main club sponsors Marathonbet will donate £500 to the charity.

Fans first saw ‘Simon Says’ in last week’s Edinburgh Derby with Hibs’ number 15 scoring the winner and celebrating in style.

After the match, Murray said: “It was good to get a goal away to Kilmarnock, especially after scoring in the derby last week and it’s also a good feeling knowing that £500 is going to charity for the celebration.

“At Rugby Park, I saw a few of the supporters joining in with the celebration when I was doing it on the pitch which was great to see as well.

“The aim for me is to try to score goals to help the team and it’s an added bonus that when I do the ‘Simon Says’ celebration that Marathonbet will donate £500 to the Hibernian Community Foundation – it’s a great combination.”

Original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQg4n7ct_1I&t=1s

McDonald’s on Gorgie Road has undergone a digital transformation and will reopen this morning at 11am.

The restaurant is now double the original size and offers all the new snazzy ways of ordering your food. Either order at the self-order kiosk or get table service.

There are 30 new jobs created at the restaurant owned by local franchisee Graham Angus who said : “The restaurant changes are designed to make our customers’ experience as positive as possible- whether that’s providing people with a chance to get to grips with using a tablet in a relaxed environment, or providing parents with a quick and easy way of ordering their food.

“The new seating means we are almost doubling the size of the restaurant and because of this, we’re able to offer 30 new jobs. When ordering with the new kiosks customers will have the option to make different food choices, for example swapping fries for a side salad or adding a  fruit bag to their children’s Happy Meal.”

McDonald’s says it is constantly striving to bring more innovation to customers in the UK; the future could include even more exciting features introduced if current trials prove successful.

This might mean the option to customise the classic burgers that customers know and love; and playing new interactive table-top games whilst they share a meal.

• The Edinburgh Reporter – book a space in our print edition
• City of Edinburgh Music School 
• Primary Schools Open Day
• Edinburgh Tram Inquiry 
• At the Open Eye Gallery 

Our next print edition will be going to press next week. There are just a couple of advertising spaces left and we urge you to get in quick to book them!

All details about advertising with us are here in our Media Packs

We also have self-service advertising here

And if none of those fit your requirements then get in touch with us direct editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk 

If you would like to be one of our stockists then please also email us to arrange that.

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There is a threat to the future of the City of Edinburgh Music School as you will know if you read our recent articles. Our latest is here and The Edinburgh Reporter exclusive is that the school will no longer form part of the cuts.

The Finance and Resources Committee meets on 7 November 2017 when they will discuss putting out the draft budget framework to the public. It was derailed at the last committee meeting when opposition councillors argued they did not have enough information to make a decision.

Now they have to decide where the cuts will fall.

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Click on the image below to get more information on how to register your child for primary school in Edinburgh.

Any parents or carers with children under primary school age are welcome. There’s no need to make an appointment. Just go along to your catchment school during the opening hours for a tour.

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The Edinburgh Tram Inquiry speeds on and they will be taking evidence from two former councillors today, Allan Jackson and Phil Wheeler.

The evidence is being gathered by Lord Hardie at proceedings taking place in Waverleygate which are open to the public.

More information about the Edinburgh Tram Inquiry investigating why the tram project went over budget and under delivered here.

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At the Open Eye Gallery they have a new exhibition opening on 3 November 2017. As is usual at the Open Eye, there are various strands to the exhibition, painting, ceramics and work with felt and wood.

Catharine Davison RSW: Light Lines, Night Shapes

In this, Catharine Davison’s third solo exhibition at the Open Eye Gallery, the act of looking remains fundamental, but there is a shift of emphasis from expansive topography to a more intimate physical world – the world of the hills and suburban gardens in south Edinburgh surrounding her home in Oxgangs.

Ann Ross RSW: Flora and Fauna

Ann Ross RSW lives in Edinburgh and is a frequent exhibitor with the Open Eye Gallery and various private galleries throughout Britain.

She has always been inspired by the world around her, at home or abroad. The memory of different experiences, cultures, weather, people, animals and wildlife, towns, buildings and landscape have all been recalled in her work.

Rachel Wood Ceramics

Rachel Wood makes a range of stoneware vessels with heavily textured surfaces, swathed with layers of slip and glaze to create depth and mystery. The marks from fingers, tools and making processes have always been an intrinsic part of the character of each work.

Michael Waight’s exhibition Landscapes Thought and Felt includes both wood constructions and monoprints showing astutely observed but deconstructed views of the landscape. Both the constructions and prints start from a point of noticing something within a landscape. A colour note or a form that is observed. ‘It then goes on a small journey,’ as Waight has said, ‘trying to balance the observational with a more composed element. It sits within the grounds of the “poetic logic”. A collaboration of the imagination and moments seen in front of the eyes.’

At Open Eye Gallery from 3-20 November 2017
34 Abercromby Place
Edinburgh
EH3 6QE

Phone: 0131 557 1020
Email: mail@openeyegallery.co.uk

Roll up to get your Christmas presents here, whether you have to buy your own or drop hints this is the place to be.

Scotland’s Festival of Handcrafted Gold, Silver and Jewellery 2-5 November 2017 at Lyon & Turnbull 33 Broughton Place  EH1 3RR

Incorporation of Goldsmiths says world-class Scottish designers are a national treasure as four-day celebration of finery gets underway

Scotland’s annual festival of jewellery, silver and gold opens tomorrow in Edinburgh –  and hundreds of handcrafted pieces by some of the finest contemporary designers and makers will be on display.

We saw this beautiful necklace made by Jenny Deans which Courtney from Lyon & Turnbull was kind enough to show off for us.

Elements 3 is organised by the Incorporation of Goldsmiths and Lyon & Turnbull and involves:

• A sale of work by 50 specially selected designers and makers, many from Scotland
• 50 Secrets of Magic Craftsmanship, an exhibition of work by leading Scottish, UK and international designers
• Jewellery and silversmithing demonstrations
• Children’s craft activities
• Display of work by Maureen Edgar, Scotland’s great enameller
• Designer jewellery made from ethically-sourced precious metals

Elements 3 is a chance to see  some of Scotland’s best handcrafted gold, silver and jewellery and to meet the makers. It also brings some of the best work from other parts of the world to Scotland.

The festival takes place at the Lyon & Turnbull auction rooms, an 18^th century church in Edinburgh’s Broughton Place.

Mary Michel, Director of the Incorporation, said: “Scotland has some of the finest designers of handcrafted gold, silver and jewellery in the world. They are a national treasure and their work is something that’s really worth shouting about.

“Elements provides a rare chance to meet some of them and see their exquisite creations.

“The festival also offers a superb chance to enjoy talks, events and activities as well as see a remarkable exhibition of jewellery and other works by 50 international artists and designers.”

Among those whose work is included in the sale (where prices start at as little as £25) are Eileen Gatt from Ross-shire and Edinburgh-based Stacey Bentley.

The 50 Secrets of Magic Craftsmanship exhibition has been created by leading modern jewellery curators Amanda Game, former Director of the Scottish Gallery, and Professor Dorothy Hogg MBE, designer and former Head of Jewellery and Silversmithing at Edinburgh College of Art.

The exhibition features more than 70 pieces including modern interpretations of remarkable craftsmanship in gold such as Sun Discby Perthshire-based designer Malcolm Appleby and a dramatic ring by Jacqueline Mina, originally commissioned for a private collection.

Many of the exhibits show an inventive approach to both materials and design ranging from paper to silver and plastics.

Amanda said: “Dorothy and I wanted to support the Elements project by bringing together some very different contemporary works that reveal the magical possibilities of both human imagination and dedicated craftsmanship in this field.

“Ranging from Maria Hanson’s exploration of the deconstructed materials of our mobile phones to Giovanni Corvaja’s breathtaking experiments in precious metals, we invite all to see this show in the context of Elements and its ambition to create new opportunities for inventive, ethical and skillful design and craftsmanship in twenty-first century Scotland.

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work on this project with Mary Michel and her team in such a beautiful venue. Loans have come from generous private collectors, as well as artists’ studios to enable this display and our thanks go to them.”

The exhibition title 50 Secrets of Magic Craftsmanship (originally the title for a surrealist text by artist Salvador Dali in the 1940s) was chosen by the curators as it suggested elements of works that they both admire: works that evoke curiosity, stimulate imagination and demonstrate the magical possibilities of craftsmanship.

Ruth Davis, Jewellery and Silver Specialist at Lyon & Turnbull added: “We are very excited to welcome Elements back to our saleroom for the third time. The fair and exhibition have grown in terms of the number of exhibitors and visitors each year, and there is such a diverse range of craftsmen and women displaying their unique pieces.

“We are confident visitors will find even more interesting and educational than ever.”

The exhibition is supported by the National Lottery through Creative Scotland’s Open Project Fund.

Helena Ward, Creative Industries Manager at Creative Scotland said: “This festival will showcase makers from a diverse range of practice in precious metal, who are taking their craft to a new level though materials and technical skills. It will also provide visitors with the rare opportunity to meet craft makers from all over the UK, celebrate their extraordinary craftmanship – and perhaps buy a piece of craft too.”

Elements 3 takes place between 2 to 5 November 2017. Normal opening times are 11am to 6pm daily for the duration of the fair. It is at 33 Broughton Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3RR.

Entry to the fair is by catalogue and costs £5 (allows unlimited access for the duration of the festival). Under 16s free admission.

Additional photos by Colin Hattersley Photography – www.colinhattersley.com – cphattersley@gmail.com – 07974 957 388.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) are asking the Scottish public which figures from history they would like to see celebrated with a Commemorative Plaque.

Nominations are now open for the national Commemorative Plaque Scheme. Now in its sixth year, the scheme has seen diverse figures from Scottish history remembered – from famous inventors like James Watt and John Logie Baird, to artists such as Joan Eardley and prominent sportsmen such golfer as Willie Park Snr.

Famous Scots are nominated by the public using an online form, then celebrated by the installation of a bronze plaque on a building connected with their achievements. The scheme celebrates the link between person and building and emphasises the social and human element of local architecture.
Anyone whose life and achievements have made a significant difference to Scotland and its people will be considered for the scheme and recipients may also include people who have gained international recognition for their impact and accomplishments.

Martin Ross, Development Manager for Historic Environment Scotland said:

“The scheme celebrates significant persons from history by highlighting the link between them and a building connected with their work or life. This highlights not only biographical aspect of the person in recognition, but gives insight into social history and to local architecture also.
In previous years we have received applications for some diverse and significant members of Scottish society, as well as a few less-celebrated, but just as important, individuals and groups. Plaques have been made to recognise the contribution of famous writers, explorers, inventors, artists, politicians and drivers of social change. We look forward to this year’s recommendations.”

This year is again an open theme, meaning that nominations will be accepted for any persons whose life and achievements have made a significant difference to Scotland and its people, or those who have gained international recognition for their accomplishments.

The closing date for completed submissions is 31 January 2018. An independent panel will then consider all the nominations and select the successful applicants.

You can find more information about the scheme and how to submit a nomination via the website.

Parents of the 60 pupils at the City of Edinburgh Music School are still drawing up their battle lines to fight the council’s proposals to shut the school, although The Edinburgh Reporter understands tonight that the campaign may have already been won.

We believe that both political groups which form the administration coalition, SNP and Labour, will give this matter due consideration at their group discussions next Monday. These will take place before next Tuesday’s Finance and Resources Committee, and we understand that there is every likelihood that the music school will then be removed from the effect of any budget cuts. 

Parents held a meeting earlier in the week to decide on tactics and actions to bring forth a deputation to the council before next week’s F&R committee.

Although the council should have published the papers for this meeting they have not yet done so when we last looked. When they are available you will be able to access them here.

What the parents really aim for is that the council removes the school from any mention in their budget consultation, and thus remove any risk of closure. We understand this may well be the result of what has already been a very loud campaign.

Support has been gathered from parents of pupils at the music school and those who are at Broughton High School (of which the music school forms but a part). Parents from both camps say that having the music school sited there is of huge benefit to both sets of pupils.

Watch our interview with Lindsay Law who is heading up the action group, and others, including the former headteacher Lesley Thomson.

City of Edinburgh Music School – parents rally against proposed closure from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

It is clear that this story gathered speed very quickly and many people connected to the CEMS wished to have their say. It also appears that the council may not legally be able to shut the school unilaterally in any case.

We interviewed Andy Wightman MSP at the weekend along with his daughter Isla Ratcliff who is a former pupil.

Here is what they said :

When the F&R committee met last week the failure to get approval for the administration’s move towards public consultation was a blow.

Alasdair Rankin, Finance Convener, said at the time : “It is disappointing that the budget consultation will not go ahead on Monday October 30. We will be working hard between now and November 7 to ensure that we have a set of detailed proposals to ensure that a meaningful consultation takes place with the people of Edinburgh.”

While The City of Edinburgh Music School may well be saved this time, it is of course true that the council have a very tough job on their hands knowing where to make the £23 million of savings that they need to.

You will be able to have your say in the public consultation which should open from 7 November 2017 onwards although it will run for only a month rather than the six weeks originally planned.

Hannah Aldridge is appearing at Voodoo Rooms on Sunday 5 November 2017 – expect musical fireworks!

Sassy, sexy and soulful, with a voice and presence to electrify a room, Muscle Shoals singerHannah Aldridge (daughter of Alabama and Nasville Hall of Fame writer Walt Aldridge) hits UK for a short tour this autumn – the final leg of a European tour to promote her highly acclaimed second album Gold Rush (Rootsy Music).

She will be accompanied by Swedish rock band Jetbone, promising a full southern rock experience (with a northern accent). The tour so far has taken her to Norway, Sweden, Germany, Netherlands and France as well as her native USA.

Sunday 5 November 2017 – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh

Hannah Aldridge – Burning Down Birmingham (Official Video) from Claymo Production on Vimeo.

Edinburgh-based Future Renewables Eco PLC (FRE plc) has opened its latest funding phase as the firm looks to increase the number of wind turbines it operates across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland.

The company’s Phase 4 Bond aims to raise £30million to finance the acquisition of wind turbine sites for construction at more than 20 sites across mainland UK and Northern Ireland leading to further opportunities opening up in the Republic of Ireland.

FRE plc was established in 2015 with the aim of delivering a substantial source of income whilst encouraging an ethical and eco-friendly way of generating electricity. The firm is currently focused on medium-sized wind turbines but is also investigating opportunities in solar and biomass. Over £14million has already been raised from previous funding rounds and the company employs eight members of staff here in the capital.

Phase 4 will target sites in the Republic Ireland that are set to benefit from a widely anticipated government backed tariff regime. In addition, FRE plc is looking to enter into Power Purchase Agreements with local communities, selling electricity directly to public sector buildings and small to medium private, long established enterprises.

The company is also keen to partner with existing wind turbine site owners in Northern Ireland, replacing older systems with newer more efficient turbines through a regeneration programme availing of pre-existing available government incentives on the sites

Gerry Woods, chief executive of FRE plc, said: “We have worked hard to establish relationships with landowners, developers, planners and energy companies to identify and capitalise early on potential opportunities.

“Our previous phases have progressed well and we believe we have identified more openings in the renewable energy market that allow us to further develop our business model.”

Funding phases 1 and 2 led to the construction of wind turbines at sites in Aberdeenshire, East Ayrshire and Cumbria. Both phases are now fully up and running and delivering clean, renewable energy to the national grid.

On site work recently began at Phase 3 across three locations in Northern Ireland and are expected to be operational by mid-December 2017. The phase’s other site in Cornwall was fully operational when it was purchased.

All FRE plc projects in phases 1 – 3 make use of the UK Government incentive schemes (Feed-in Tariffs and Renewable Obligation Certificates) that underpin index-linked income to each site for 20 years. 

Edinburgh University Students’ Association’s Pleasance complex Officially Opened

Monday evening marked the official re-opening of the Edinburgh University Students’ Association’s Pleasance complex, following a £6 million refurbishment project undertaken by the University of Edinburgh. Sarah Smith, University Secretary, and Patrick Kilduff, Students’ Association President, welcomed students, staff and guests to a reception in the new Pleasance Café & Bar before inviting them to tour the complex.

Patrick Kilduff, Edinburgh University Students’ Association President, said: “We are thrilled with our new home for activities. One of the greatest parts of our lives as students are the friends we make and communities we build from a shared love of activities and societies. This brilliant modernisation of the Pleasance is an exciting enrichment of our support for having fun and falling in love with new things as well as honing ongoing interests; it’s fantastic news for students.”

The Pleasance site has received a comprehensive upgrade, with vital improvements made to infrastructure, toilets and disabled access to the buildings, which are housed around a cobbled courtyard and range from c.100 – 220 years old. The old Quaker meeting house within the complex (now Pleasance Quaker Studio), was previously used only during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, but is now available for year round use as a rehearsal and performance space. The Pleasance Theatre building now boasts three large rehearsal/ performance and event spaces, and a refurbished Café & Bar and Cabaret performance space. Pleasance West now contains craft and music rooms, a student media hub with a publications room and radio and AV studios, multi-purpose meeting office spaces, and a student lounge. Pleasance Salisbury has fresh meeting and rehearsal spaces, equipped with mirrors and sprung floors.

Sarah Smith, University Secretary, said: “The Pleasance has always been a major hub of activity for our students, so I’m delighted so see the completion of this major refurbishment. This is part of the University’s commitment to enhancing the Edinburgh experience, with wider investments not only in our physical estate but in areas such as health and well-being, increased library and study spaces, and teaching.”

The Pleasance complex sits beside the University’s impressive Pleasance Sport Complex & Gym, part of a set of sport & fitness facilities which are ranked among the very best in the UK. A key element of the redevelopment was to add an additional new entrance to the complex opening into the courtyard of Pleasance Sports Complex & Gym.

Jim Aitken MBE, Director of Sport & Exercise, added: “The welcome redevelopment of the Pleasance complex adds to the strength of this area of our University campus as a hub for student activities, arts and sports, providing even more reasons for our students and the wider community to come together.”

Image courtesy of Andrew Perry

Saxophonist Tommy Smith brings his latest project home this month with a concert on Saturday, 11 November 2017 in Craiglockhart church just two miles from where he grew up in Wester Hailes.

Back in the summer Smith stepped out onstage at Rochester Jazz Festival in New York to play his first ever “naked saxophone” concert, an experience he found “scary but exciting”.

He had played onstage by himself many times before. In the early noughties he toured his Alone at Last project across the UK and further afield, playing soprano and tenor saxophones and integrating recordings of his late friend and collaborator Edwin Morgan’s poetry with samples of natural sounds and special effects. He has also recorded alone, on his 2001 album Into the Silence, which saw him working with what was at one time the longest echo in the world in Hamilton Mausoleum.

The Rochester concert, however, was his first time “playing with no help”, as he puts it, in front of an audience and the response in the church-like ambience of Rochester’s Lyric Theatre, and in later reviews, told him his approach was on the right track.

“I’ve seen some great saxophonists playing completely solo and even someone like Michael Brecker, who used awesome virtuosity and fantastic technique to prolong his compositions in that setting, played too many notes,” he says. “It’s a really big challenge and there’s the temptation to fill the space available because you’re exposed by the silence, but to me
space is important. It gives you time to reflect on what you’ve just played and what you’re about to play. It lets the music breathe. If you just play constantly, for the audience it’s like listening to someone talking non-stop, twenty to the dozen, and that can just get annoying.”

Smith has since played another successful solo concert, in the aptly named “round church” in Bowmore during Islay Jazz Festival, and is keen to do more. When the minister at Craiglockhart offered his church as a venue, Smith jumped at the chance to play solo so close to his old home.

“It wouldn’t suit every venue,” he says. “But churches, particularly the older ones, were built to accommodate acoustic music and I really enjoy working with the sound of the room. I concentrate on melodies, some of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s, some from Scottish folk music and some of my own, and although it is like walking a tightrope, playing without a band, it’s really satisfying.”

The solo concert, the first of a new Jazz in the Church series at Craiglockhart, follows a successful concert by  Smith’s new quartet in Musselburgh last month. Tickets £10 available from the church or by email gordonkennedy@craiglockhartchurch.org

He returns with the quartet to Edinburgh early in the new year for a concert at The Queen’s Hall on 28 January 2018. .

Police Scotland has launched a three month consultation exercise which will give local communities, partners and stakeholders the opportunity to have their say on the future of some of the police estate.

On 28 September 2017, the Scottish Police Authority approved a period of consultation in relation to 53 premises which have been identified for potential disposal. These premises were identified following a review of the estate and the vast majority are empty or will soon become empty and therefore the proposed changes will not impact on service delivery to local communities.

The consultation begins today (Wednesday 1 November 2017) and will conclude on Wednesday 31 January 2018.

Deputy Chief Officer David Page, said: “Police Scotland inherited a large estate from the legacy forces, which was developed over many years to respond to the challenges and risks during that time.

“However, as Policing 2026 has demonstrated, the demands and risks facing policing have changed significantly over the years and will continue to do so. This includes how local communities contact us and engage with us, with an increasing preference to use the telephone and internet, including social media, rather than attending a police station. Yet, despite these changes, our estate has largely been unchanged and it was therefore right that we reviewed our estate, in line with the objectives of our Estate Strategy and Policing 2026.

“The review of our estate was carried out to ensure that it is fit for purpose, reflects the changing nature of policing and can support service delivery to local communities. Local Policing Commanders were significantly involved in the review, as they are best placed to understand the local needs of their respective divisions.”

Mr Page continued: “We are now consulting with local communities, partners and stakeholders on the potential disposal of some of our police premises. The vast majority of these premises are empty and are not use as a permanent base for police officers or police staff. No decisions have been made in relation to any of the premises, we want to capture the thoughts and opinions of our staff, partners and those in our communities before any decisions are made.

“Today we have launched an online consultation survey which gives the public the opportunity to learn more about the premises being considered for disposal and have their say on the future of these premises. To support the online survey, officers from Local Policing Divisions will be personally engaging with local communities and partners to provide them with further information and to encourage them to take part in the consultation.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to participate in the consultation.”

More information about the premises being considered for disposal and the consultation process can be found on the Police Scotland website here:  http://www.scotland.police.uk/about-us/finance/estate-change-project

The consultation survey can be accessed here: https://consult.scotland.police.uk/consultation/estates

Vue Ocean Terminal has recently undergone a major transformation.

Every single standard seat has been replaced with a luxurious padded leather recliner, and the good news is that there is no increase in the price of cinema tickets.

Vue Ocean Terminal become one of only a handful of Vue venues to have recliners across the whole cinema with all seats in the 12 screens refurbished.

Work on the new First Class seating has been completed in time for guests to enjoy the exciting November line-up which includes the much anticipated, Justice League.

Ian Chester, General Manager of Vue Ocean Terminal said: “We’re incredibly pleased with our refurbished screens here in Vue Ocean Terminal. The new leather recliner seats really enhance the big screen viewing experience, and they’re going to be no extra cost for our customers.

“The difference the new seats make is really incredible, and I’m looking forward to customers coming down and experiencing The Recliner for themselves.”

To secure your tickets at Vue Ocean Terminal visit: www.myvue.com