The proposal to extend the tram line to Newhaven is on the agenda for discussion by the council on Monday 4 September 2017 at the Transport and Environment Committee, followed by consideration by all councillors at the meeting of the full council on 21 September.

When we published our earlier article about the plans to extend the line, one of our readers, Reggie Tricker, asked whether or not the proposed stops are perhaps too far apart.

The plans show eight stops beginning with the newly created stop at Picardy Place, McDonald Road, Balfour Street, Foot of the Walk, Bernard Street, Port of Leith, Ocean Terminal and finally Newhaven.

As part of the Edinburgh St James Development it is planned to remove the stop at York Place, and so the tram will run from St Andrew Square to Picardy Place with no stop in between.

The stops on the current line are at varying distances depending on the location.  Some of these are out in the countryside near the airport, and some in the city are necessarily quite far apart due to the geography there.

Here is the information on the distance between current stops:

When it comes to Leith Walk there seems to us to be nothing getting in the way of having even more stops than currently planned, except perhaps that the tram journey to Newhaven would then be slower.

Reggie describes himself as a ‘sustainable travel guru’, although he resisted when we suggested calling him an expert. But he does seem to know about the best ways of getting about cities. He suggested that the international average distance between stops might be around 500 metres, so it is clear that some of the existing stops in Edinburgh exceed that.  As for the proposed stops we think they might just be a little more than that too.

What do you think? Do you live in Leith? Where would you like the stops to be situated?

The whole circumstances around the extension of the tramline will receive due attention on Monday. Most councillors have visited the data room which the council set up to examine the business case and to question council officers about it.

MELBOURNE MODEL

In Melbourne they have had a tram system for many years. It is the largest operating tram network in the world with 250 km of double track and a quarter of the 1700 stops have level access.

Reggie pointed us in the direction of an article where distance between stops was specifically discussed. In Melbourne they are now considering taking out some of the 1700 stops and putting in bigger stops with shelters and raised platforms. The hope is that this would speed up the Yarra Trams by taking away what they consider to be unnecessary and unsafe stops along the track.

At present the Yarra Trams average speed is about 16km/h whereas in Edinburgh we are advised that the tram now has a top speed of 70km/h on the off street sections. In the city centre the top speed is 20km/h.

Now that Edinburgh Trams have introduced higher speeds and a new timetable, overall journey time from one end of the line to the other has reduced to 36 minutes. In a few weeks we have been told that there will be trams every three minutes on the part of the line to the West End in an effort to reduce congestion on some of the trams.

The photos below from our Melbourne correspondent show some of the 450 Melbourne trams in action.

This is a much bigger operation, running 24 hours a day and covering 24 tram routes and transporting 203 million passengers. But it would seem to be well established and perhaps a set-up to learn from. In the Outline Business Case to be discussed by the council on Monday, there is a recommendation to learn from other tram systems.

In Melbourne they have Super Stops (photographed above) where you can transfer from one mode of transport to the other and there they have some or all of the following public amenities: automatic public toilets, kiosks, payphones, real time passenger information, ticketing machines and vending machines.  These are approximately 440 yards or 2 city grids apart from each other.  The only stops where there are amenities like that in Edinburgh are at the Ingliston Park and Ride, Haymarket Station and at Edinburgh Airport, although we believe they all have CCTV. Whether there is any need for that on the extended line depends on the survival of the local businesses which are already there. There is to be a compensation scheme for those which might be affected by 18 months of roadworks on Leith Walk.

Public Transport Victoria offer a free tram ride in the city centre to residents and visitors alike, and they also have a free tourist bus dropping passengers at major tourist attractions across the city. This is certainly something to be emulated!

OUTLINE BUSINESS CASE

Whether or not the capital does complete Route 1A to Newhaven, there is still some design work to do on the specifics including the location of the stops. The council proposes to award a design and build contract to whichever company gets the job, and this will incorporate tram infrastructure.

During Stage 2 (which will commence if the council approves the extension on 21 September 2017), there will be public consultation in relation to Traffic Regulation Orders, traffic management proposals and outline designs. So you may be able to have your say then on where the stops should be along the extended line.

The decision as to whether to extend the tramline or not will not finally be made until November 2018, by which time the procurement process will have identified a contractor, and it is hoped the Edinburgh Tram Inquiry which gets underway this week will also have issued a final report.

On Monday the council will discuss the Outline Business Case which estimates that the cost of the remaining 4.6km will be £162.5m which includes a risk element and provision for inflation in it.

While we will not end up with as big a tram system as Melbourne, our population here in Edinburgh is estimated to grow by 20% in the next 20 years and the tram might be the mass transport provider that will be required.

The final word is from Council Leader Adam McVey who said earlier this week : “Edinburgh is growing faster than any other city in Scotland and our current road network and public transport provision simply aren’t sustainable given the number of new residents we’re expecting to welcome here over the next two decades.

“Rather than exacerbating traffic problems on our already congested roads, trams allow far greater numbers of people to travel, while creating employment during construction, boosting development along the route and connecting people to centres of employment, leisure and retail.”

The above photo shows the scene on Montrose Terrace (Courtesy of Allan Crow editor Fife Free Press)

There is an ongoing incident on Montrose Terrace today involving both the Scottish Ambulance Service and also Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

We were alerted to this by former councillor Stefan Tymkewycz who tweeted these photos to us:

Looks like serious incident at florists on Montrose Terrace, 7 fire tenders on scene & specialist equipment @EdinReporter @edinburghpaper pic.twitter.com/roXdjT7LLv

— Stefan Tymkewycz (@StefanTymkewycz) September 2, 2017

It appears that a person has apparently fallen down a hatch inside a shop, presumably the florists’ shop in the photos, although that has not been confirmed.

There are now only four appliances in attendance in case the ambulance service need any assistance in rescuing the person involved.

Montrose Terrace is part of the diversion route which began today with the closure of the top part of Leith Street, so it is an area best avoided. Montrose Terrace is now one way up the hill towards Regent Road.

More about road closures here 

Edinburgh is always busy with loads of events taking place but now in the lull after the storm of the festivals it is even more important to get out and about! Here are five things we have found for you to get up to from today onwards.

• Edinburgh Mela
• Soundhouse
• Ladies Clothes Swap
• Cake not Climate Change
• Edinburgh Trams Inquiry

Edinburgh’s Mela finishes this weekend with a two day programme of events all taking place on Leith Links.

This is Scotland’s foremost celebration of cultural diversity through arts and this year the event features everything from hip hop bhangra to indo jazz fusion and West African drumming.

The ever popular fashion show will be back along with food from around the world and a kids’ zone with arts, crafts and stories from around the world.

The Mela will finish with a flourish this weekend.

Today there are performances from the seven piece Babylon Arabic band and Swaryata, performing Bollywood numbers with a touch of Indian classical music. It culminates with the film, Lunchbox featuring Nimrat Kaur and Bollywood star, Irrfan Khan.

Tomorrow’s programme features the Edinburgh Samba School, Bollywood cross over artist Sher Yar Khan and international bhangra singer Sona Walia complete with dhol and dancers.

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Soundhouse begins its house concerts again after a Festival lull. This Wednesday 6 September they have the Budapest Cafe Orchestra playing  – if you don’t know who they are then watch the video below.

Reserve tickets here.

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There is a Ladies Clothes Swap at Akva 129 Fountainbridge, EH3 9QG on 3 September 2017

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Fight climate change with cake…..

Cake not Climate Change will take place from 5.30 – 7.30pm  on Thursday 7 September at Ostara Cafe, Coburg Street. The event is free, and people can drop in at any time – just bring a laptop, tablet or pen and paper. There is no need to book. Gluten-free and Vegan cake options will be available.

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The Edinburgh Tram Inquiry begins hearing oral evidence on 5 September with several councillors past and present among those about to give their version of events which led to half the tramline being completed for many times the budgeted cost.

This week former council leader Jenny Dawe and Ewan Aitken along with Conservative Group leader Iain Whyte, former councillor now MSP Jeremy Balfour will take the witness stand along with former Lord Provost and latterly Transport and Environment Convener Lesley Hinds.

The official terms of reference for the Inquiry are to:

• Inquire into the delivery of the Edinburgh Trams project (‘the project’), from proposals for the project emerging to its completion, including the procurement and contract preparation, its governance, project management and delivery structures, and oversight of the relevant contracts, in order to establish why the project incurred delays, cost considerably more than originally budgeted for and delivered significantly less than was projected through reductions in scope.
• Examine the consequences of the failure to deliver the project in the time, within the budget and to the extent projected.
• Review the circumstances surrounding the project as necessary, in order to report to the Scottish Ministers making recommendations as to how major tram and light rail infrastructure projects of a similar nature might avoid such failures in future.

Members of the public can attend the hearing but before going along you should read this guidance here.

In an offer exclusive to the Edinburgh Reporter, you can £1 off each ticket booked for this fabulous interactive screening of the smash-hit family favourite DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST when it comes to the Festival Theatre next month.

Just call the box office on 0131 529 6000 or click here 

Quote “EDREP17” to get the discount.

Following the phenomenon of Sing-a-long-a Frozen, this unique, interactive screening of another Disney favourite, with live host, free prop bag, fancy dress and lyrics on screen, rolls into Edinburgh for two shows only.

You would have to have been abandoned on a desert island for the last year not to know the story which has enchanted and wowed audiences young and old since the film was released. Belle (Emma Watson), a bright, beautiful and independent young woman, is taken prisoner by a beast (Dan Stevens) in its castle.

Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the beast’s hideous exterior.  She soon recognises the kind heart and soul of the true prince hidden on the inside.

The film is full of wonderful songs from “Be our Guest”, “Belle”, “Gaston” and not forgetting the “Beauty and The Beast”, making it an ideal chance to sing your heart out with hundreds of other people.

It’s the formula that has made the Sing-a-long-a phenomenon so popular around the world.

Sing-a-long-a Beauty and the Beast is an irresistible celebration of this wonderful family film, full of tears, laughter and magic moments.

The Singalonga host starts with a live pre-show, warming up voices, teaching hand actions, and demonstrating the use of the now-famous Singalonga props bag for key moments during the film.

This is followed by the hilarious fancy dress competition, where those who have dressed up get the chance to show off their often outrageous creations.  The film then starts and the audience takes over, raising the roof while singing along to very word.

IT’S THE FAMILY HIT OF 2017 – DON’T MISS THE MAGIC!

Just call the box office on 0131 529 6000 or click here 

Quote “EDREP17” to get the discount.

The discount is available for both adult and child tickets.  It  cannot be combined with any other offer and is subject to availability.

The Queensferry Crossing has been in the news all week, and now a lucky 50,000 ballot winners will enjoy the experience of walking across the 1.7 mile bridge this weekend.

Ahead of Monday’s official opening by Her Majesty The Queen, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Transport Minister Humza Yousaf will today join members of the public on the crossing, to admire the complexity and scale of the structure, learn about its construction and the benefits it will deliver while taking in the fantastic views.

The Queensferry Crossing Experience ballot attracted almost 250,000 entries, with 50,000 individuals given the one-off chance to cross the bridge on foot.  Once the new bridge reopens on 7 September, pedestrians will not be able to use the crossing, and will be confined to using the Forth Road Bridge as a means of getting across on foot or on bike. The Forth Road Bridge will become a public transport corridor for use by buses and taxis.

Transport Scotland and VisitScotland have worked with the South and North Queensferry communities to create a carnival atmosphere– with street decorations in both towns and a flotilla on the Forth, in the run up to and during the Royal visit.

The First Minister said : “Excitement has been building steadily in recent weeks as we have watched this hugely ambitious project near completion. It’s only right that the public get the chance of an up close and personal look at this amazing structure so they can see the stunning engineering and views for themselves.

“Walking across the new Queensferry Crossing will be a once in a lifetime experience, before it is officially opened to traffic and pedestrian access continues on the Forth Road Bridge. I look forward to joining some of the 50,000 people lucky enough to participate in this unique opportunity.”

Humza Yousaf said: “It’s important to recognise the efforts of those workers who have delivered this project in challenging conditions, £245 million under budget. That is a staggering achievement and we want to build on the momentum that these celebrations will create.

“There has been interest from all around the globe and events this weekend can only serve to heighten that enthusiasm further. While motorists will see immediate benefits from the bridge being open to traffic, work is underway to ensure the location is marketed as a leading destination for tourists and locals alike.”

Sara Thiam, Director of Institution of Civil Engineers Scotland, added: “The Institution of Civil Engineers in Scotland welcomes the opening of the new Queensferry Crossing as a wonderful example of civil engineering in action.  Joining the other nearby bridges across the Forth, it provides us with world-leading examples of three types of bridge construction built over three different centuries.

“The new bridge will join its sister bridges as iconic examples of fine infrastructure development highlighting the latest skill and ingenuity in the industry, while acting as an inspiration for future generations of civil engineers.”

Berwick Bandits host near neighbours Newcastle Diamonds on Saturday and the Borders club defend an unbeaten home record against the Tyneside combine this season.

They drew 45-45 in March in the Tyne/Tweed Trophy and Bandits won 53-40 in the league in June.

Bandits are, of course, buoyed by their success on aggregate in The Border Trophy over Workington Comets last weekend. Tapes up 7pm

Meanwhile, in the West of Scotland Glasgow have a must-win clash with Championship pace-setters Sheffield Tigers on Saturday (tapes-up 7pm).

In-form Reserve Jack Smith told Tigers success-hungry fans: “We’ve not through in the towel.”

He made the comment after the Scots misfired 54-36 at pace-setting Sheffield Tigers on Thursday.

Smith sees no reason why the West of Scotland club can’t turn the tables at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium.

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After starting a petition to stop the possible closure of Leith Registrars Office on Wednesday, Edinburgh North and Leith MP Deidre Brock announced good news earlier today as The City of Edinburgh Council said they have put a stay on their plans.

In only two days the petition gathered 4,000 signatures showing the extent of local support.

Ms Brock hailed this as a victory for the Leithers as the council announced it would hold a public consultation over the possible closure.

Deidre said : “Well done the Leithers – people power wins the day! It’s fantastic to hear that the council has been forced to think again about the wrong-headed plans to close Leith Registrars Office. This is a brilliant example of local democracy in action. It’s also great teamwork from the people of Leith who spread the word and added their voices to the petition in their droves. This should never have been happening without public consultation and without even the councillors being told but credit to the council for eventually listening to the community and turning round.

“We’ve won this battle but the threat of closure hasn’t gone away and I’ll be watching developments closely. When the consultation comes out I’ll make sure that as many Leithers as possible have their say. We won’t stop until any idea of closing Leith Registrar is abandoned for good. The 1920 settlement that Leith got from Edinburgh has to be respected and we will keep reminding council officials of that.

“There’s an important principle here which is that services should be delivered where people need them. The council policy is to decentralise service provision so this closure proposal was out of kilter and I’m delighted that sense prevailed.”

In 2014 we met two couples at Leith Registrars who were using the newly introduced legislation to get married there. Read more here.

Edinburgh Monarchs rider Max Clegg won the Caledonian Riders’ Championship title at Armadale.

He held off Coty Garcia who was second and Jason Bukhave who was third.

Pre-meeting favourite Mitchell Davey withdrew after damaging his bike in his first outing.

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after two female rabbits were discovered near the entrance to Old Musselburgh Golf Club in Prestonpans.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted after a member of the public spotted them hopping about at the side of the road on Saturday (26 August).

Animal Rescue Officer Melissa Maitland said, “There was a cardboard box found close by with holes on the top which suggests these rabbits had escaped after being dumped. “This is not only a cruel incident but it is also a crime. These animals could have easily been hit by a car and killed.

“Abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006. Anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

Edinburgh Capitals have confirmed the signing of former Detroit Red Wings draft pick Marek Tvrdon.

The Slovakian forward can play on either wing and has played in the tough ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) in North America for Wings affiliate Tolledo Walleye.

He has also iced in the AHL (American Hockey League) for Grand Rapids Griffins.

Last season he split is time between the Indy Fuel in the ECHL before moving home last December to end his season playing 24 games for HK Nitra.

Tvrdon said: “I’m coming over to give the club and its fans everything I can to ensure success this season.”

The Edinburgh Mela finishes this weekend and it will end with a flourish if the organisers have anything to do with it!

This is Scotland’s foremost celebration of cultural diversity through arts and this year includes hip hop bhangra to indo jazz fusion and West African drumming.

The ever popular fashion show will be back along with food from around the world and a kids’ zone with arts, crafts and stories from around the world.

Tomorrow Saturday 2 September there will be performances from the seven piece Babylon Arabic band and Swaryata, performing Bollywood numbers with a touch of Indian classical music. It culminates with the film, Lunchbox featuring Nimrat Kaur and Bollywood star, Irrfan Khan.

On Sunday you will be able to see the Edinburgh Samba School, Bollywood cross over artist Sher Yar Khan and international bhangra singer Sona Walia complete with dhol and dancers.

Chair of the Edinburgh Mela, Lesley Hinds, said: “It is great to have the Mela back in the 70th year of the Edinburgh Festivals. As a community event with a global focus, it draws on Scotland’s rich and diverse cultures. Above all, it is a chance to have fun, learn new things and dazzle the senses.”

The Leith Links location over September 2-3 also provides a kids zone, specifically for families with preschool and primary aged children hosted by Play Talk Read – one tent running arts & crafts and messy play and another tent running storytelling sessions from around the world.

Families and visitors can make a day of it, with a wide range of tempting and tasty food options also available onsite.

This year’s event is being supported by the City of Edinburgh Council, Creative Scotland, Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, Edinburgh One City Trust and Ria financial services.

Entry to the festival is free. Full programme details are available at www.edinburgh-mela.co.uk

Weekend programme (September 2-3)

Saturday 2  September 2017 – stage

12.00-12.40 – Swaryatra (Edinburgh based Indian classical band)

12.55-13.15 – Khalid Al Khajah (Edinburgh based RnB singer songwriter)

13.30-14.00 – Sankofa Beats (Edinburgh based West African drum & dance group)

14.15-14.45 – Edinburgh Chinese Arts Association (Chinese dance show)

15.00-15.30 – Bruce Ncube (Zimbabwean folk songs with Edinburgh community)

15.45-16.30 – Babylon Arabic Band (songs from the Arab region, 7 piece band)

16.45-17.05 – Rameet (Miss India Scotland, hip hop bhangra)

17.25-18.10 – Jesse Bannister (Indo-jazz fusion, 5 piece band)

18.30              – Film ‘The Lunchbox’ (Love and Indian food with Irrfan Khan)

Sunday 3  September 2017 – stage

12.00-12.30 – The Edinburgh Samba School (TESS)

13.00-13.45 – Okestra Del Sol (Edinburgh based European folk jazz, 9 piece band)

14.00-14.45 – The MELA Fashion Show

15.00-15.20 – Chinese Lion Dance (Edinburgh Chinese Community School)

15.35-16.20 – Sher Yar Khan (Bollywood rock cross-over artist)

16.35-17.20 – Sona Walia (International bhangra singer with dhol and dancers)

17.45-18.30 – Rafaqat Ali Khan finishes the Mela (International Qawaali star)

Grass

12.15-13.00 – Circus Raj (Indian street performers)

16.00-16.45 – Circus Raj (Indian street performers)

“When you work in clinical care, supporting cancer patients and improving levels of service is all in a day’s work. It is humbling to pause and realise just how far the service has come and, of course, to be thanked and recognised not just by my peers, but the City and the Queen!

“I collect this Medal not just for myself, but for all of the inspirational and brave patients and families I have supported over the last 34 years, and the army of dedicated and hard-working nurses and service workers at the Western General’s Cancer Ward. Thank you.”

With £611,000 of investment in two of their restaurants in Edinburgh Pizza Hut Restaurants is creating 20 new jobs.

The restaurants at North Bridge and Kinnaird Park are both being transformed to include a vibrant new contemporary look and feel.

There will also be a brand new menu to include chicken wings, Kentucky style BBQ ribs and new additions to its famous warm cookie dough.

The re-openings form part of a multi-million pound nationwide redesign programme by the casual dining company. A total of £4.5million has been invested in Scotland over the past five years with more than two thirds of the estate complete.

All of Pizza Hut Restaurants’ famous icons – including the Ice Cream Factory, Salad Station and Buffet – still take centre stage, but form part of the new, interactive design that includes a central preparation station offering a range of desserts, and a self-service soft drinks hub allowing guests to refill drinks at their leisure.

Suzi Marshall, Operations Director at Pizza Hut Restaurants who is based in Edinburgh, said: “Over the past five years, we have focused on refurbishing our entire portfolio of restaurants, with a total of £4.5 million invested in Scotland alone.

“We have a strong commitment to Edinburgh and today we’re delighted to announce that we’re bringing our new restaurant design concept and menu to our Huts at North Bridge and Kinnaird Park. Through the makeovers we hope to create a warm and fun environment for our guests to enjoy a meal and we’re looking forward to welcoming our customers to experience it first-hand.”

The investment in Edinburgh is part of a broader £60 million refurbishment and restructuring programme for the business, secured through private equity investment from Rutland Partners in late 2012.

Photos Chris Watt / UNP t 0845 600 7737

Guests at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotels all over the globe are welcomed with a signature DoubleTree Cookie.

Now, to celebrate the opening of the new Queensferry Crossing and the launch of the 10^th DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Scotland – located at the Queensferry Crossing – 5,000 limited edition commemorative cookies, each featuring an image of the bridge have been created.

The limited edition commemorative cookies will be given out to members of the public in the Queensferry area over this weekend to celebrate the arrival of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel.

Following a £15M renovation, DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh – Queensferry Crossing boasts design enhancements to the hotel’s restaurant, meeting spaces and guestrooms as well as the structural addition of 64 guestrooms.

Stuart Douglas, general manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh – Queensferry Crossing said : “We are delighted to be opening the new DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh – Queensferry Crossing to coincide with the opening of the new Queensferry Bridge.

“At DoubleTree by Hilton we welcome guests with our signature warm DoubleTree cookie and are proud to have created a limited edition cookie, featuring an image of the Crossing to give locals in Queensferry a chance to experience a DoubleTree welcome – as well as to celebrate the launch of the new Queensferry Crossing and hotel.”

Photo by GARETH EASTON t 07752666522
 

Isn’t she beautiful ? Our new bridge over the Forth has won me over with her sheer elegance and white-cabled grace.  I have to admit I was against the whole Queensferry Crossing project when it first began in 2007.  I thought we should repair the existing bridge and send all the heavy lorries round by Stirling.  It was they, after all, which had pulverised it far beyond its designed capacity. We could have spent the £1.3bn on new schools or playing fields or paying off our PFI debts.

But maybe I should just get used to our high-carbon modern world where we just accept we have to dash about in motor cars and all our supplies have to be carried around the country on diesel guzzling pantechnicons.  Climate change just isn’t happening.  This is a week for celebration not criticism.

We can be proud of our new bridge, a national symbol of excellence.  The three concrete towers stand over 200 meters high. They support a duel carriageway 1.7 miles long on 288 criss-crossing cables, each of which can be replaced separately without having to close the bridge to traffic (the big problem with the old bridge).  The 122 deck sections (made in China) had to be gently hoisted into place from barges on the river.  New approach roads had to be constructed. All this work, involving 15,000 people, had to be undertaken in pretty challenging weather conditions.  It was done within budget and only eight months late.

So excited were we by this achievement, that 100,000 drivers piled onto the bridge on its first day, Wednesday, causing the very traffic jams the bridge was designed to avoid. In normal times, it’s expected to carry 80,000 vehicles a day – buses, taxis and bicycles will use the old bridge.  This weekend the Queensferry Crossing will close to traffic and 50,000 lucky ticket holders will be allowed to walk across it before the Queen officially opens it on Monday, 53 years to the day since she opened the old bridge.

Can we measure our progress as a civilisation by the bridges we build ?  The Victorian railway bridge, which opened in 1890, was the first and most stunning achievement, replacing a centuries-old ferry crossing.  Then came the suspension bridge, when we had no doubt about the success of the motor car and Britain’s manufacturing future.  And now, we’ve built an even bigger bridge, for a post-industrial age, and just as the government has announced the phasing out of the petrol car and the beginning of the new era of electric transport.

So much for the diaried event of the week.  What was not on agenda was the surprise resignation of the Scottish Labour Party leader, Kezia Dugdale. She decided to “pass on the baton” for personal reasons after just two years in the job.  But those two years have been unusually hectic – two referendums, three elections and the Labour party, all the while, in defeat and turmoil.  Her own personal life has not been easy either –  a breakdown of one relationship, the early death of her good friend Gordon Aikman and the start of a new relationship with Jenny Gilruth an SNP MSP.

Her big achievement has been to hold the Scottish Labour Party together over such a turbulent period. Although it fell to third place in the Scottish elections and lost ground in the local elections, it increased its MPs from one to seven in the June UK general election.  Whether that was due to the Corbyn left-wing surge, is being debated and that debate will now dominate the campaign to elect her successor.  The front runners seem to be Richard Leonard from the left of the party and Anas Sarwar from the centre/right.

The party is over as far as the Edinburgh Festival is concerned. As predicted it’s been a record-breaking 70^th year.  It attracted 3.6 million visitors. Sales at the official festival were up 2 per cent on last year, at the book festival they were up 4 per cent and at the fringe up 9 per cent.  The Military Tattoo was sold out for the 19^th successive year. Everyone seemed to have a good time. The weather played along nicely and nothing seemed to go agley.

I was one of the quarter of million people who watched the final fireworks concert in Princes Street Gardens.  It was a dazzling occasion, 400,000 dazzles to be exact. Karen Matheson of the Celtic band Capercaille sang three beautiful songs at the beginning, then The Scottish Chamber Orchestra played pieces by Peter Maxwell Davies, James MacMillan and Tchaikovsky.

So yes, the Festival went out with a bang.

Edinburgh Capitals have to wait until Sunday night (face-off 6pm) for their next taste of on-ice action at Murrayfield.

Then, Scottish rivals Dundee Stars come to town but Capitals’ coach Dmitri Khristich must take heart from Thursday’s result at Braehead Clan.

They misfired and the Purple Army witnessed a 7-1 thrashing by Canadian tourists University of Manitoba Bisons.

New Clan coach John Tripp must re-focus his hand-picked squad ahead of Saturday’s visit of Manchester Storm (7pm).

Tripp admittedly tried different combinations and experimented but the 2,600 fans must have left the Glasgow arena shocked by the size of the victory.

Remember, Bison only beat short-benched Edinburgh Capitals 2-1 on Tuesday at Murrayfield with a goal six seconds from time.

Craig Peacock scored for Clan who have only won one of their five pre-season games, three of which have been at home.

Worryingly, they have conceded 24 goals and scored only nine, five of them coming in the 5-4 victory over Lowen Frankfurt last weekend. Face-off is at 7pm

Elsewhere, Dundee Stars coach Omar Pacha and his squad are excited by the visit of Belfast Giants to Tayside in the Challenge Cup (7pm).

Three players are still missing as they wait for documentation to come through.

Pacha said: “Belfast have played some matches. You can only control the controllable. I can’t control Belfast.
“What I can control is Dundee Stars. We’ll have had a week of practice by Saturday and the guys are working hard and they are gelling as a unit.

“This is a process. Saturday’s game is part of that process.” Face-off here is also at 7pm.

Fife Flyers entertain Danish side Herlev Eagles on Saturday (7.15pm).

Eagles were formed in 1993 and one of Flyers latest recruits, Liam Heelis, will meet two of his former Acadia University team-mates in netminder Evan Mosher and forward Brett Thomson who now play for the Copenhagen-based side

Campaigners invite you to eat cake in a bid to tackle climate change, with a ‘Cake not Climate Change’ event at the Ostara Cafe in Leith.

The event is being organised by local campaigner Julie Hauck to get people involved in the campaign for a stronger climate law in Scotland, and follows a similar event held last night.

Julie said : “The Scottish Government is currently asking for people’s views on their new climate plans. It can seem daunting to know how to respond on your own, so I wanted to find a fun way for people to get involved. By coming together to chat about the issues over some sweet treats we can make it a piece of cake for people to send their message to Government!”

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s climate campaigner, Caroline Rance, who will be joining the events said : “The Scottish Government’s proposals for a new Climate Change Act are currently missing a few vital ingredients but with extra heat from plenty of people we hope they’ll rise to the occasion.

“It’s clear that people have an appetite for greater ambition from the Government when it comes to tackling climate change. We’re calling for the Act to include plans to deliver warmer homes, cleaner transport and greener farming – a surefire recipe for a healthier, fairer Scotland.”

Cake not Climate Change will take place from 5.30 – 7.30pm  on Thursday 7th September at Ostara Cafe, Coburg Street. The event is free, and people can drop in at any time – just bring a laptop, tablet or pen and paper. There is no need to book. Gluten-free and Vegan cake options will be available.

The summer transfer window closed at midnight on Thursday 31 August and Hibs’ fans breathed a sigh of relief with the news that John McGinn would remain at the club.

Nottingham Forest were reputed to be after the Scotland international however an ‘optimistic’ offer of £750,000 was immediately rejected as was an improved offer.

Neil Lennon described the bid as ‘laughable’ but an improved offer was expected last night.

Media reports suggesting a loan move for Scottish Cup Final hero Liam Henderson also failed to materialise.

On the whole however Hibs’ fans are happy with the business done throughout the window which includes new contracts for existing players.

IN:  Ofir Marciano, Steven Whittaker, Efe Ambrose, Vykintas Slivka, Danny Swanson, Brandon Barker (loan), Simon Murray, Anthony Stokes, Deivydas Matulevicius.

NEW CONTRACTS: Ross Laidlaw, David Gray, Lewis Stevenson, Darren McGregor, Liam Fontaine, Marvin Bartley, Martin Boyle.

OUT: Brian McLean, Jordon Forster, Fraser Fyvie, Andrew Shinnie, Chris Humphrey, Sam Stanton (loan), Alex Harris, Grant Holt, Brian Graham, James Keatings, Jason Cummings.

SGB Championship: Sheffield Tigers 54, Glasgow Tigers 36

Sheffield: Josh Grajczonek 14, rider replacement for Todd Kurtz, Lasse Bjerre 8, Josh Bates 8, Kyle Howarth 14, Jan Graversen 9, Georgie Wood 1

Glasgow: Richie Worrall 4, Mason Campton (guest) 10, Aaron Summers 10, rider replacement for Nike Lunna, Richard Lawson 6, Tom Perry 2, Jack Smith 4

Glasgow Tigers were mauled 54-36 by SGB Championship pace-setters Sheffield Tigers and one of their former riders, Josh Grajczonek, starred for the home side with 14 points.

Kyle Howarth also collected 14 points as Tigers came from behind to dominate the second-half of the meeting.

The English side now move onto 73 points from 29 matches while Glasgow are on 59 points from 27 outings.

Earlier, Glasgow led 16-14 after five races but the sides were level at 18-18 after Heat Six.

Sheffield then put their foot down and 4-2 scorelines in three of the next four heats saw the home side edge 33-27 ahead.

And a 5-1 thanks to Howarth and Aussie-born Grajczonek in Heat 13 took the scoreline to 44-34 and sealed the win for the home side.

The Yorkshire side turned the screw with another 5-1 in Heat 14, Josh Bates and Jan Graversen doing the business.

Grajczonek rounded off a great night personally and for the team by winning the final race with Howarth in second place for a third straight 5-1.

Elsewhere, Berwick-born teenager Leon Flint finishished well down the field in the World 250cc Championship in Prague, Czech Republic.

The 14-year-old scored three points to take 14th place out of 16 riders in the event won by Denmark’s Jonas Knudsen with 12 points.

Police released CCTV images of a man they wish to trace in connection with a serious assault which occurred in the city centre earlier this year.

The incident happened on Dundee Street around 10.40 P.M. hours on Friday 21 July 2017.

A 44-year-old man was making his way home along Dundee Street, Edinburgh, when he was seriously assaulted by an unknown male.

It is believed the man pictured will be able to assist the investigation and he or anyone who recognises him is asked to come forward.

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

“We are appealing for anyone who can help us locate this man 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.”

A century of Edinburgh’s colourful history as never seen before.

The Greater Grassmarket Business Improvement District (BID) has teamed up with Capital Collections to launch a free open-air, walking art exhibition in the Greater Grassmarket area from 4-30 September.

Fifteen pieces of artwork which span a century of Grassmarket history will be displayed
throughout 22 locations in the area.

The artwork dates from 1850-1950 and combines rare old photos of the Grassmarket and Old Town from the collections of Edinburgh’s libraries with a twist of psychedelic colour and vibrancy.  Highlights include the hokeypokey man, a homage to the Italian ice cream
sellers who lived and worked in the Grassmarket in the 1900s, and a ventriloquist performing in the Grassmarket’s public space. Visitors can access a map on the Greater Grassmarket BID’s website to find out the exact location and more background to each piece of artwork. The first fifty visitors can also collect a series of FREE postcards of each piece from specific Grassmarket retailers.

Funded by local businesses and the City of Edinburgh Council, this open-air exhibition is
part of the Greater Grassmarket BID’s aim of attracting visitors to the area, encouraging them to explore its fascinating history and enjoy the retail and hospitality on offer.

Norrie Stewart, Grassmarket BID Project Manager, says: ’The artwork shines a 21st century light on these historic images of the Grassmarket and Old Town. Using the psychedelic treatment in this way presents a unique and modern alternative view of this ancient area. We invite visitors and locals alike to stroll around the Grassmarket and enjoy the startling contrasts between the scenes shown on the artwork, and the locations as they are now. It’s something a bit different and exciting.’

Cllr Alison Dickie, Vice-Convener for Education, Children and Families said; ‘It’s really exciting to see these special photos from our Capital Collections being shown in such an innovative way through this open-air art gallery in the Greater Grassmarket.

As one of the oldest parts of Edinburgh, the Grassmarket is steeped in history and provides an excellent location to offer visitors a unique glimpse of the city’s history in a way they’ve never seen it before!’

Johnny Dodds, creative artist for GG BID, says: ‘It has been a lot of fun working with these historic images to create such exciting new artwork for this exhibition. The Old Town has always been a thriving place, bursting with life and colour and I hope these works help to draw attention to that colourful past.’

For more information and the artwork location map of images visit www.greatergrassmarket.co.uk/art.

The historic psychedelic artwork is available to purchase from [email protected] and the original photographs are available to purchase from Capital Collections www.capitalcollections.org.uk.

At the end of this week Scotland Under-19s play the first of three international matches in Serbia ahead of their European Championship qualification campaign which starts in November.

Serbia are first up on Thursday before playing Ukraine a day later and then the final or a placing match on Monday.

The matches will be Donald Park’s first in charge of the team. Since joining the Scottish FA in 2009, Park has worked across the coach education programme and supported the national youth teams at various age levels.

He takes over from Ricky Sbragia who led the team in the European elite round earlier this year where they were defeated by Austria, Czech Republic and Hungary. Park is assisted by Gordon Marshall and Darren Jackson.

Hibs’ duo Ryan Porteous and Fraser Murray join Hearts pair Daniel Baur and Callum Morrison in the squad which includes a number of promising players who guided the under-17s to their fourth consecutive European finals earlier this year.

Glenn Middleton of Norwich, Jack Aitchison of Celtic and Jonny Mitchell of Falkirk are all included along with Zak Rudden who scored two goals in his last two games for the under-17s.

Head coach Donald Park said: “The boys have been great since meeting up and it’s an exciting few days for them.

“We’ve got two games in two days to start off which will allow us to use the squad and everyone will be involved across those two matches.

“The objectives for the upcoming games are for us to perfect our shape and make sure we play our style. We’ve got some very exciting players so we need to ensure we utilise them properly.

“I didn’t know the players before the trip which was a challenge in one sense but good in another as it means it’s a blank canvas for everyone.

“I’ve done a lot of research on them and there’s a lot of guys who have done well for the under-17s and are stepping up to the 19s. Hopefully they’ll do well at this stage.

“I’m enjoying being back on the training field coaching players. Coach education is wonderful and I love it bits but to be back leading a team is excellent and I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

International Tournament Fixtures

Thursday, 31 August 2017: Serbia v Scotland, kick-off 4pm (UK time) – City Stadium, Subotica

Friday, 1 September 2017: Scotland v Ukraine, kick-off 4pm (UK time) – Stadium FK Senta, Senta

Monday, 4 September 2017: Final or placing match, kick-off tbc – Stadium tbc

Scotland Under-19 Squad

Goalkeepers

Aidan McAdams (Rangers)

Kieran Wright (Rangers)

Defenders

Daniel Baur (Heart of Midlothian)

Robbie Deas (Celtic)

Jordan Houston (Rangers)

Lewis Mayo (Rangers) PS

Ryan Porteous Hibernian)

Stephen Welsh (Celtic)

Aidan Wilson (Rangers)

Midfielders

Jamie Barjonas (Rangers)

Charlie Gilmour (Arsenal)

Jordon Holsgrove (Reading)

Fraser Hornby (Everton)

Jonny Mitchell (Falkirk) PS

Forwards

Jack Aitchison (Celtic)

Glenn Middleton (Norwich)

Callum Morrison (Heart of Midlothian)

Fraser Murray (Hibernian)

Zak Rudden (Rangers) PS

Callum Smith (Dunfermline Athletic)

PS – denotes Scottish FA JD Performance School player

Ferocious critic and satirist of Nazi Germany, target of many Russian emigrants following the Stalinist Purges and his ambivalent witness appearance before the 1947 House Un-American Activities Committee, Enfant Terrible – Bertolt Brecht (poet, playwright and theatrical director) thrived on controversy.

His collaboration with lyricist, Kurt Weill, to create the brooding, subversive and iconic counter-Musical, The Threepenny Opera, equally thrives on the themes of money, sex, violence and war. Do not anticipate any cameos from Julie Andrews then.

In this English adaptation by the magnificently named Marc Blitzstein, Directed by Susan Worsfold, Produced by Catrin Sheridan, The Attic Collective present their third and final show of their inaugural season preceded by Lysistrata and War In America.

Bringing the talents of the company’s actor musicians to the fore, the iconic score of The Threepenny Opera includes Tango Ballad, Pirate Jenny and the classic Mack the Knife.

An amateur production by arrangement with R&H Theatricals Europe.

Tickets here 

The Scottish SPCA is delighted to invite animal lovers in the Edinburgh area to their centre on Mansfield Road, Balerno EH14 7JU on Sunday 10^th September to celebrate their tenth annual Scottish Animal Week!

Scotland’s animal welfare charity will have a number of events on at the centre on the day including £10 microchipping and a raffle, which includes prizes from Petplanet, Calzeat and more!

Edinburgh Centre Manager Diane Aitchsion said, “We’re really looking forward to the open day and would love to see as many animal lovers as possible!

“We’re inviting the public to come along to meet the animals at our centre and the staff who care for them.

“Last year our centre rehomed nearly 590 animals and we have already found a new home for 250 animals this year so we really need the support of the public more than ever.

“As an animal welfare charity, we receive no government or lottery funding and rely on the generosity of animal lovers to continue our vital work.”

Anyone interested in the Scottish Animal Week open day should head over to the centre in Edinburgh 12 – 4pm on Sunday 10 September.

Photo by Peter Devlin Scottish SPCA

Police have raided a number of houses in Edinburgh with possible links to the terrorist group the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)

No arrests were made and the investigation is continuing.

The PKK has Marxist-Leninist roots and was created in a bid to form an independent Kurdish state within Turkey.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “On Wednesday, Police Scotland executed search warrants at a number of addresses in the Edinburgh area in connection with an ongoing investigation

A man responsible for a fraudulent scheme at an Edinburgh cemetery has today been convicted at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.

William Henderson pled guilty to a fraud offence, which affected 13 individuals and took place at the Mount Vernon Cemetery in Liberton between 2006 and 2015.

Between 1997 and 2015, Henderson (45) was employed at the cemetery. From 2006 onwards he was responsible for the fraudulent creation of burial deeds and obtaining funds for these deeds.

In addition, Henderson oversaw the ‘overburial’ of two individuals where families were sold plots believing these to be fresh graves. However, these in fact were unmarked graves that were already occupied.

In total, Henderson was able to obtain thousands of pounds in profit.

Following administrative changes at the top of the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh in 2013, irregularities in a number of burial ledgers and other documentation was observed and Police Scotland was contacted.

A robust inquiry was thereafter launced by detectives from Edinburgh’s CID, resulting in William Henderson being charged in November 2016.

He will now be sentenced on Friday 29th September following today’s guilty plea.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Grainger, who led on this investigation, said: “William Henderson targeted vulnerable families when they were grieving and distressed. He offered them plots within Mount Vernon Cemetery, when no such sites were available, for his own individual financial gain.

“His deception and exploitation led to Henderson amassing thousands of pounds from these families, which, he hid from his employers.

“This was a challenging and complex investigation from the beginning and involved officers having to engage with families who had been defrauded by Henderson over a number of years.

In many some of these occasions they had to relive very painful memories and discuss the deaths of loved ones and so we took a very sensitive approach so we could provide them with all the support and assistance they required, while conducting our inquiries to gather evidence.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all families who supported us in our enquiry and while nothing can undo the distress Henderson’s actions have had on the families affected, I hope that today’s outcome will offer them some comfort that both Police Scotland and the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh have taken significant action to bring the perpetrator to justice and to ensure something like this does not happen at the cemetery again.

Dr Elspeth Atkinson, Chief Operating Officer of the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh said:

“Willie Henderson’s criminal behaviour betrayed the trust of his employer, the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, from whom he stole from but, much more importantly and distressingly, he betrayed the trust of those families who were exploited at a time when they were grieving and vulnerable.

“That’s why his crimes are so shocking and that’s why we are grateful to Police Scotland for working so diligently over the past two years in order to bring Henderson to justice.

“The Archdiocese deeply regrets the criminal activities of Willie Henderson and has been working hard over the past months, in close collaboration with Police Scotland, to offer both pastoral and practical support to those families affected by his actions and we will, of course, continue to do so in the months to come.”

Lowland League club Civil Service Strollers have appointed Karen Mitchell to the role of community liaison officer.

Karen has been as active part of the north Edinburgh community for many years and with the Strollers for the past year.

At an EGM earlier this week her position to the committee was confirmed.

Karen said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity and I am really looking forward to getting started.

“I have been involved at the club for a while now and there is so much potential for this club and what it can achieve.

“I hope that over the next few weeks and months I can really make a difference.”

Her new role will see Karen being the clubs contact for all its community engagement work.

Club President, Russell Pryde, said: “The committee is delighted to welcome Karen Mitchell to the full committee of the club.

“Karen will take up the role of community liaison and over the next few months we will be working to fully scope out that role.

“Karen came to the club as part of the new Youth set up and she will help to ensure that links across the club are strong.

“However, one of the great assets that Karen brings is her willingness to support all aspects of the club not just at youth level but with the adult sides as well.

“Although the club did have a ladies team at one time, I am pretty sure that Karen is the first female to be represented on the committee and this may well represent the modernising of the outlook at this club.”

The council’s planning committee decided today to turn down an application to convert the A-listed former Royal High School into a luxury hotel.

The previous application for a 147 room hotel complete with side ‘wings’ was refused in 2015, and today’s marathon meeting accepted the council officers’ recommendations to refuse this application.

Cllr Lewis Ritchie, Planning Convener for the CEC, said: “Both sides of the proposal were heard today and Councillors thoroughly examined the issues presented to them. However the Planning Committee decided that the application did not meet the high standard required for one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings, and voted unanimously to refuse it.

“The developer now has the right to appeal this decision. The original planning application for a hotel, refused by the Council in December 2015, was appealed by the developer and is currently with Scottish Ministers. It would therefore not be appropriate to make any further comment at this time.”

Speaking at the Planning Hearing Claire Miller Green councillor for City Centre said:

“I’m delighted that planning committee listened to the overwhelming evidence from our own officers, external experts and public opinion and rejected the proposal.  Perhaps, if the developer’s vision for the site had highlighted and showcased the wonderful architecture, preserved the heritage, and brought benefits to the neighbourhood then residents might have been supportive.

“However I don’t think these proposals are for a boutique hotel any more. If you need to build extensions to create over 100 bedrooms, then the buildings on the site just aren’t suitable for the hotel you’re trying to create.

“One of Edinburgh’s landmark buildings deserves better.”

Permission already exists to allow the building to be used for a Music School although legal title is still required.

William Gray Muir, Chair of the Royal High School Preservation Trust said:

“We are very pleased to note the unanimous rejection of this application, embracing Scotland’s full political spectrum. It is difficult to disagree with the committee Convenor’s description of the proposal as “universally reviled”.  Not one of the many civic representatives who spoke today had received a single comment in favour of this scheme.

“The applicants angrily attacked all of the parties who disagreed with them, and showed an alarming lack of respect for the process, the consultees and the people of Edinburgh. Well, the people of Edinburgh and their appointed representatives have given their unequivocal verdict. The Scottish Government will surely have taken note.

“Let’s hope the development consortium shows some sense of dignity and bow out quickly, letting the City pursue a much brighter future for this wonderful building.   The Royal High School Preservation Trust looks forward to pursuing its exciting, positive vision for the building as soon as the way is clear.”

Dr Kenneth Taylor, Headteacher at St Mary’s Music School, said:

“The school has always been conscious that the Royal High School Preservation Trust’s proposal to move St Mary’s Music School to the former Royal High School building would succeed only if the local authority opted to reject planning approval for an alternative commercial proposal for the site.

“We are delighted that councillors have taken that decision today. RHSPT’s proposal, which has already been granted planning approval, provides a far closer match with the architectural and cultural significance of the unique site.

“St Mary’s Music School is not just a school for Edinburgh, but one for the whole of Scotland with our pupils coming from across the nation and beyond, and all taken on musical ability regardless of personal circumstances. We want to build on our music and academic success. The move to the former Royal High School provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a cultural hub which will bring great benefits not only for Edinburgh but for the benefit of aspiring young musicians throughout Scotland.

“Our sincere hope now is that a way can be found that allows the plans for a hotel development to be put to rest quickly so that the next chapter for the site as a seat of education and performance is not delayed. The weight of public opinion has fallen in favour of our plans in large part because everyone associated with the project has worked hard to demonstrate their excellence beyond doubt. There seems little advantage to anyone in repeating the same arguments through a protracted appeal process. Let us move on with making our vision a reality.”

Calum Robertson scored Edinburgh Capitals only goal in their challenge clash with University of Manitoba Bisons in midweek, the teenager sending the puck home when the chance arrived ten minutes into his debut.

He is, however, continuing his ice hockey education by training and continuing to play with the club’s Scottish National League side as well as the senior side.

Capitals’ head coach, Dmitri Khristich, said the goal showed that the Fife-born young player was organised.

And Robertson knows he has a lot to learn about the world’s fastest team sport.

The former Kirkcaldy Kestrels forward, who played for the Great Britain under-18 side in the World Championships in Korea earlier this year, could have a busy weekend ahead.

He is pencilled in for a junior game on Saturday and Capitals host Dundee Stars in a pre-season challenge on Sunday (face-off 6pm).

Meanwhile, Khristich is still putting his hand-picked squad under the microscope in training.

And the squad face a gym session on Saturday to boost their fitness ahead of the visit of Dundee.

He said: “We’re working had in training, doing drills and we’re moving forward every day.”

Thursday is transfer deadline day and The Edinburgh Reporter can bring you the latest ins-and-outs at Tynecastle as new Hearts Head Coach Craig Levein seeks to re-structure his squad.

In: Hearts have signed Raith Rovers captain Ross Callachan on a two-year contract. The midfield player, a life-long Hearts supporter, crosses the River Forth for a fee which the club says is ‘undisclosed’. Callachan has made 200 appearances for the Starks Park club and made an impression when he played for Rovers against Hearts in last season’s William Hill Scottish Cup ties, which the Tynecastle side won after a replay.

Callachan told the official Hearts website:

“I grew up watching Hearts and for them to come in with an offer for me, it’s a dream come true really.

“In terms of what fans can expect, I’d say I’m quite an energetic player, a box-to-box midfielder. I like to get around the park and I can put myself about a bit as well.

“I’ve played a lot of games for my age and I feel now is the right time to step up and I’m ready to challenge myself here.”

The Edinburgh Reporter also understands that Serbian winger Manuel Milinkovic is at Tynecastle to discuss a season-long loan move to Hearts.

The 23-year-old is contracted to Genoa but has been on loan at Foggia. An announcement is expected later today.

Late on Thursday evening, Hearts confirmed the signing of Milinkovic on season-long loan.

The 23-year-old winger, who holds dual French/Serbian nationality, arrived in Gorgie from Italian Serie B side Foggia Calcio.

Milinkovic told the official Hearts website: “I’m very pleased to have joined Hearts and I’m now eager to start training as soon as possible so that I can be ready to help the team”

“I’m a player who likes having the ball at my feet, to run at the opponents and provide assists for my teammates.

“I can’t wait to get started now. I’ve seen the stadium and it looks fantastic, I’ve also watched clips of Hearts games online and to see such a packed stadium is amazing. I can’t wait to play in front of these fans.”

Moving On: Defender Jordan McGhee has joined Ladbrokes Championship side Falkirk for an undisclosed fee. The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough but his opportunities in the Hearts first team have been limited and he has agreed to join Peter Houston’s team.

Attacking midfielder Dario Zanatta has moved to Raith Rovers on a development loan until the end of the season. This means he will be eligible to play for Hearts U20s for the duration of the loan period.

As at 10.50pm on Thursday evening  – with a little over an hour until the transfer window closes – The Edinburgh Reporter understands that Rangers were still trying to sign Hearts attacking midfielder Jamie Walker but the move didn’t go through. So Walker remains at Tynecastle at least until the end of the season.