POLICE UDATE 4pm: The M8 westbound at Hermiston Gait, which was closed due to an earlier crash, has now fully reopened.

Motorists are thanked for their patience.

Emergency services are in attendance at Hermiston Gait on the M8 following a crash involving an overturned lorry around 9.10am this morning Tuesday, 10 September 2024. 

The vehicle is not currently obstructing traffic however the road will be closed shortly to facilitate recovery and diversions will be in place via the A8. 

Police say that there are no reports of any serious injuries and enquiries are ongoing. 

One of Lothian’s independent housebuilders has begun construction on a 59-home site which had previously been left in limbo.

Construction company Dundas took on the residential development in Shawfair, which had started construction under developer Stewart Milne before the collapse of the Aberdeen based builder.

After acquiring the site earlier in the summer, Dundas is now setting out to fulfil its promise to deliver quality housing to the area.

Craig Fairfoull, Sales & Marketing Director at Dundas, said: “We currently have a walk-through plot on site, so that keen buyers can come along and get a taste for the development themselves.

“Along with this, we’re excited to be opening a new sales office on site, which will be coming soon.

“We recognise the significance of this project and are dedicated to addressing all concerns thoroughly before commencing construction. We are unwavering in our commitment to maintaining high-quality standards.”

The Shawfair development will offer a variety of homes ranging from three to six bedrooms and is located just six miles south of Edinburgh.

As a new neighbourhood on the edge of the city, Shawfair offers a mix of local retail and community health facilities, as well as 3km of cycle paths that easily connect homeowners to the train station, schools and Park & Ride.

Dundas is a multiple award-winning independent homebuilder in Scotland. It focuses on crafting homes that enhance the well-being of its valued customers and making the home-buying experience simpler, more enriching, and enjoyable.

https://bit.ly/dundas-estates

ScottishPower has been announced as the title sponsor of the 2024 Scottish Women’s Football Awards, following a sensational first year as Principal Partner of both Scottish Women’s Football and the Scottish Women’s Premier League. 

The ScottishPower Scottish Women’s Football Awards will take place on Saturday 30th November and again at Hampden Park in Glasgow, in a glittering ceremony that will shine a spotlight on success and recognise achievement both on and off the pitch. 

Nominations for the awards are already open, with over 700 nominations already submitted via the SWF website over the weekend. 

The awards, which welcome back the Sunday Post as Media Partner, include the ScottishPower award for most sustainable club – recognising clubs that innovate and successfully navigate the many challenges facing grassroots football. This was won in its inaugural year by Dundee club Dryburgh Athletic. 

Commenting, Scottish Women’s Football CEO Aileen Campbell said: “I’m delighted that ScottishPower have continued their unprecedented backing of the women’s game in Scotland by once again partnering this celebration of our achievements both on and off the pitch as title sponsors. 

“This is sure to be a fantastic night, and the sheer number of nominations we have seen via the SWF website already is a testament to the success of last year’s awards in highlighting the great stories throughout our game, from the premier league role models to the volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to open up opportunities for girls to play the game they love.” 

Keith Anderson, Chief Executive of ScottishPower, said: “It’s fantastic to be back as the sponsor of the Scottish Women’s Football Awards – supporting and promoting the success and achievements of the women’s and girls’ game across the country. I’ve been blown away by the passion, drive and determination we see all the way from grass roots to those at the top of the leagues, so it’s no surprise that the nominations are already rolling in. It’s going to be a cracking competition, and I can’t wait to see who makes it over the line.” 

National Records of Scotland report that the number of alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland is the highest in 16 years.

The number of deaths in 2023 as a result of alcohol rose from the previous year to 1,277. Deaths in this category are 4.5 times higher in the most deprived areas of the country. The areas where the alcohol-specific rate is higher than the Scottish average included Inverclyde, Glasgow City, North Lanarkshire and Dundee City.

The figures are set out in a report published today.

Phillipa Haxton, Head of Vital Events Statistics, said: “The rate of alcohol-specific deaths peaked in 2006 and then fell until 2012. Since then it has generally risen.

“Those aged 45-64 and 65-74 continue to have the highest mortality rates. If we look at the average age at death, that has risen over time. The mortality rates for those aged 65 to 74, and 75 and over, were at their highest since we began recording these figures in 1994. As the same time for age 25-44 the mortality rate has been fairly stable over the last decade.”

Scotland continued to have the highest alcohol-specific death rate of the UK constituent countries in 2022 (the latest year for which comparable data exists). Data for the rest of the UK is yet to be released for 2023.

The difference between Scotland and the other UK countries has narrowed over the last two decades. In 2001, the alcohol-specific mortality rate for Scotland was between 2.1 and 2.9 times as high as other UK countries. The rate for Scotland was between 1.2 and 1.6 times as high in 2022.

Scottish Labour Public Health spokesperson, Carol Mochan, said: “Every single one of these deaths is a travesty and the scale of this crisis is a national scandal.

“All alcohol and drug deaths are preventable and the number of lives being cut tragically short shames this SNP government.

“The number of deaths being directly caused by alcohol is just one part of the damage alcohol does in Scotland, with many more lives being ruined.

“This tragedy is a damning indictment of the SNP’s record of failure in government and a reflection of its past cuts to drug and alcohol services.

“There is no excuse for inaction when lives are on the line – the SNP government must set out a comprehensive plan to tackle the root causes of this public health emergency and ensure drug and alcohol services can offer people the lifesaving support they need.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and health spokesperson, Alex Cole-Hamilton, MSP, said: “It is devastating that more than 20 people a week die due to alcohol misuse in Scotland. This will be a hard day for all those who have lost a loved one.

“We were the first party to call for the minimum unit price to be updated so that public health isn’t undermined by inflation – a move that will happen at the end of this month. But on the flipside the Scottish Government decided to hand down a real-terms cut to drug and alcohol services in this year’s budget.

“We need joined up thinking from the Scottish Government to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities.”

Ryanair has launched a special 24-hour flash sale on Tuesday with fares for travel in October and November 2024 from just £16.99.

The offers are detailed on Ryanair.com where you can book low fare flights before the flash sale ends at midnight tonight.

Ryanair’s Head of Communications, Jade Kirwan said: “With the kids all back to school and the evenings getting shorter and shorter, summer has never felt so far away.

“So, if you’re feeling that post-summer travel itch, then make sure to head over to Ryanair.com now and book yourself a low fare getaway with Ryanair’s limited-time flash sale offering fares from just £16.99 for travel throughout Oct-Nov. It’s the perfect opportunity to soak up some winter sun at one of the 240+ destinations across Ryanair’s industry leading network.”

Three males, aged 18, 17 and 16, have been arrested and charged in connection with the serious assault of a 17-year-old male on Broomhouse Road in Edinburgh. 

The incident took place around 10pm on Friday, 6 September, 2024. 

The victim was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and has since been discharged. 

The three males appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 9 September. 

Trams in Edinburgh have been involved in more than 100 collisions with road vehicles in the decade since the £1billion transport system was introduced, it has been revealed.

Data released by Edinburgh Trams Ltd under freedom of information (FOI) reveals there have been 112 incidents where there was “tram contact with road vehicles” such as buses, cars, lorries and motorbikes since 2014.

In addition, there have been four logged where trams made “contact with cyclists”, not including a number of crashes involving cyclists and tramlines.

In a separate FOI, City of Edinburgh Council revealed that there had been seven “accidents/incidents” involving pedestrians and trams resulting in five reports of injury and one fatality.

The findings have prompted calls for an urgent safety review of the 11.5 mile system, which runs from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre to Newhaven via Leith.

Miles Briggs, the Scottish Conservative MSP for Lothian, said: “In the time the Edinburgh Trams have been operating we have already seen several incidents where people have been injured or killed in incidents involving trams and on the tram lines.

“I have met with several of those affected to discuss what action needs to be taken to prevent further avoidable injuries occurring.

“There must be an urgent review by the SNP Government of what additional safety measures should be put in place. John Swinney must commit to making this review happen without further delay so that we can ensure the safety of residents and visitors in Edinburgh.”

Pedestrian Carlos Correa Palacio, 53, killed by a tram at a footpath crossing between the city’s Balgreen and Saughton tram stops on 11 September 2018. He was walking back to his car after finishing his morning shift as a bus driver when he was struck by the airport-bound number 260 tram, travelling at 33mph. This single fatality resulted in a Fatal Accident Inquiry, and the company was fined £240,000 after admitting a breach of health and safety legislation..

In June 2017, Malaysian medical student Zhi Min Soh, 23, died after her bike became stuck in tramlines on Princes Street and she fell into the path of a minibus following behind her.

Data from The City of Edinburgh City Council confirms that 44 collisions involving motor vehicles and trams had been recorded by its insurance services team, with Police Scotland notifying them of six injuries.

A total of 13 claims made by pedestrians and motorists have been “lodged and settled” by the council, with £8049 having been paid out in compensation, separate to any claims in connection with the tracks. Further claims remain ongoing.

It has previously been revealed that The City of Edinburgh Council has paid out over £1.3million in compensation to cyclists who were injured or had their bikes damaged after slipping on the rails or getting their wheels stuck.

Edinburgh’s troubled tram system opened in 2014, three years late and hundreds of millions of pounds over budget. It was also a fraction of the intended length.

A nine-year long inquiry chaired by Lord Hardie told of “a litany of avoidable failures”. An extension to Newhaven opened last year before the report was complete.

A spokesman for the Lothians cycle campaign group Spokes said there had been no cycle-related accidents on the new stretch of tramline.

He said: “The section which has by far the most cyclists is Leith Walk. Here, the Council has installed segregated cycle lanes. They have not been very well designed unfortunately but, despite that, they have the huge benefit of enabling cyclists to keep away from the tramlines.

“As a result of this we have had no reports at all of tramline bike crashes on the Leith Walk section of the new tramline, apart from one case where a cyclist needed to cross at a junction and skidded on the lines.”

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Alongside Edinburgh Trams, we continually review, assess and implement safety campaigns and infrastructure changes to improve safety around tram operations.

“On the issue of cyclist safety, we recently completed the implementation of the final phase of the tram cycle safety improvements programme.

“This put in place measures to minimise the risk of cyclists falling while crossing tram tracks at key locations along the original line from Edinburgh Airport to York Place. The programme was developed in partnership with Spokes. Similar measures were also incorporated into the designs in the Trams to Newhaven project.

“We’ll continue to engage with key external stakeholders, including Spokes, going forward. We’re committed to making sure our award winning tram network is keeping on track and is safe for everyone.”

A spokesperson for the Office of Road and Rail (ORR), which is responsible for monitoring and enforcing performance and efficiency of National Highways, said: “We have been working with the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board to ensure that safety, standards, and good practice continues to be improved across all tramways, including Edinburgh Trams.

“Edinburgh Trams has introduced improved safety measures on their tram fleet to improve audibility warnings to pedestrians and installed new signage and bollards at crossings to improve the safety of pedestrians at crossings. New red-surfaced cycle lanes to direct cyclists on the safest route to cross the tram tracks to avoid getting their wheels stuck, have also been introduced.”

An attempt by owners of an Edinburgh quarry to remove limits on how strong their blasts can be has been knocked back by the council.

Locals complained operations at Bonnington Mains Quarry, near Ratho, already cause their homes to shake and have left some living nearby distressed.

The local authority approved the pit’s opening in 1990 and said levels of air overpressure – shockwaves that travels through the air when explosives are detonated – should not exceed 120 decibels when measured at nearby properties.

Owners Breedon argued the planning condition was “unenforceable and unreasonable” due to difficulties obtaining accurate measurements, and said unpredictable weather conditions can significantly increase air overpressure levels.

However an application to have it lifted attracted 140 objections and left councillors feeling “extremely uncomfortable,” and was refused.

Last year Breedon was granted permission to further develop the north of the site with a new asphalt plant, offices and car park. More extensive plans to nearly double the size of the quarry in future and build a large recycling plant, which are yet to be formally submitted, have sparked fears over the further noise, dust and traffic this would bring, and potential damage to nearby homes.

Tests by Vibrock, which measures air overpressure levels for the quarry, show that of the six blasts monitored in the last year, all exceeded the 120 dB limit.

Valarie Thrush-Denning from the local Stop the Quarry campaign opposing the expansion plans, said it was vital to stop the owners “breaking all the rules and making people’s lives miserable”.

She said: “Taking away any protection of the local people and leaving it up to the quarry to make vital decision of when to blast without any possible redress, the environmental problems that would be caused by allowing potential reckless blasting would be in direct contrast to the attempts to clean up air quality.”

She said a 93-year-old neighbour in Bonnington Village had recently been “taken aback as my whole house shook violently and loose items on the bathroom shelf rattled, accompanied by a loud noise” when operations were underway.

Ms Thrush-Denning also told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “For the last year or so the air overpressure limits have been exceeded and we have noticed the difference.”

Representing Breedon at the meeting on Wednesday, September 4 Donald Wilkins argued the limit imposed was “unenforceable and unreasonable” due to weather impact and difficulty get accurate measurements.

He told councillors a 120 dB blast was similar to a “gentle breeze” but the impact was often exacerbated by wind.

“Within Scotland this is the only planning permission that we have an air overpressure limit on, it doesn’t exist anywhere else, it’s never been imposed by another local authority,” he added.

“If a blast is detonated in a motionless atmosphere where there is absolutely no wind and a constant temperature then the air overpressure should reduce as a function of distance. However as we all know the weather in Scotland is highly changeable with regular periods of high winds, low clouds and very rarely do we get appropriate measurement conditions.”

But Paul Fisher, a local civil engineer and environmental manager urged the committee not to “fall for the smoke and mirrors,” adding that removing the limit would “set a very dangerous precedent”

He said: “Research over many years has determined that 120 decibels is the threshold above which human beings can hear and feel such blasts and it can distress them greatly – more so if they are indoors.”

Judy Wightman, chair of Ratho and District Community Council, added: “This, in layman’s terms, is not only a request to remove all the upper limits for air overpressure, but any monitoring of the air overpressure arising, or: no upper limits, no monitoring.

“Blasting occurs on a regular basis. The impact of blasting from air overpressure perspective is not only a loud noise but also a shaking of properties.

“At present it would appear that the planning department is not monitoring the levels of the air overpressure despite the information being supplied by Vibroc, nor is any action taken.

“Even at lower levels there is an impact on the local residents, and the continuing frequent occurrences has accumulative effect reducing the amenity levels for the area. The community believe the 120dB air overpressure limit should be retained and monitored in the future.”

Members of the development management-sub committee refused the application, with the Conservatives’ Jo Mowat noting her dissent.

Convener Cllr Hal Osler said: “I am extremely uncomfortable with removing this condition.

“As a committee to actually remove this because were basically acknowledging the fact there’s an issue and the way we’re resolving it is by removing the condition. And I am very uncomfortable about that because residents’ amenity is important and there are issues with that”.

It is understood Breedon plans to appeal the decision.

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Joint efforts of police, youth workers and centre staff have seen a drop in anti-social behaviour in Livingston. 

Police have been working with shopping centre staff as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on youth disorder. Community officers have also been joined by special constables on evening weekend patrols. 

Community Sgt Liam Arbuthnot told councillors that high visibility patrols “deter any youth disorder, whilst providing reassurance to local businesses. iis report to Livingston South Local Area Committee Sgt Arbuthnot said 

gt Arbuthnot said: “Officers continued patrols in relation to ASB, which we are pleased to report, has declined with the improving weather. 

“In addition, conflict resolution and additional training was held for management and staff of both venues by a Preventions Officer. Further to these efforts, there was a period of six weeks in April and May where officers provided a patrol for the centre at weekends. 

He added: “Continued ASB meetings with management from both buildings take place on a monthly basis with any issues addressed. Police, Youth Action Project and Safer Neighbourhood Teams, have continued high-visibility patrols in ASB hotspots to deter any youth disorder, whilst providing reassurance to local businesses.” 

Councillor Maria MacAulay asked: “How has the police visibility in the centre been received? 

Sgt Arbuthnot said; “Good. The centre management has been really positive. Dialogue has been ongoing with my inspector and commander towards a more joined up approach going forward.  It is something that is ongoing and we are quite happy at the way the relationship has been building.” 

Proactive patrols have spread into the wider community on Friday and Saturday providing more visible policing between 5pm and 3am.  

The police report said: “We continue to have a weekend proactive policing plan where our cover shift officers carry out high visibility patrols in any identified hotspots across the county.”  

 Sgt Arbuthnot told the meeting: “Our response officers are assisted by our Special Constables who regularly work on Friday and Saturday nights. Our weekend plan includes regular visits to licensed premises to ensure adherence to licensing laws by patrons and licensees in order to prevent ASB and violence.”                                                    

Police also arrested an individual who tried to hold up staff in the Asda store and at another store in Livingston after threatening them with scissors. 

Community Sgt Liam Arbuthnot told councillors that high visibility patrols “deter any youth disorder, whilst providing reassurance to local businesses.” 

In his report to Livingston South Local Area Committee Sgt Arbuthnot said that the attempted robbery incidents had occurred within the first quarter of the year between April and June. There were calls to a mini market in Huron Avenue in Howden as well as Asda in the town centre. 

He added: “It was established that both incidents were linked to the same suspect who had presented scissors to members of staff in an attempt to obtain money and goods.  

“Following an extensive area search the suspect was traced and found in possession of bladed articles and charged with theft, under the Protection against Workers act, and attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon.” 

Police have also scored successes in controlling issues of anti-social behaviour in the shopping centre. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

The owners of the two flats on Cromwell Court, overlooking Dunbar Harbour, in East Lothian, both challenged the council’s refusal to allow them to carry on letting out the properties by using a certificate of lawful use.

They argued that they did not need to apply for a change of use of the properties as there was ‘no material difference’ to using them for short term holidays or long term leasing.

However Scottish Ministers have dismissed their appeals after their Reporter ruled the flats did need planning permission to carry on and were not ‘lawful’.

The owner of one of the flats revealed it was rented out 89 per cent of the year to a wide range of guests from Edinburgh Festival attendees to wedding guests, and people attending sporting events.

The other said their flat was advertised on Airbnb and welcomed holidaymakers and workers to stay.

The Reporter said in the case of the flat which was occupied nearly 90 per cent of the time that its proximity to the heart of the seaside town would increase the impact on residents living in the flat block.

They said: “Given the access to the town centre and the local bars, restaurants and other attractions, I consider that guests are more likely to come and go from the property with greater frequency and are likely to generate more activity later in the evenings and at night time than neighbouring residents, at a time when residents may want a more peaceful atmosphere.”

Two neighbouring flat owners have lost their appeals to keep operating them as holiday lets.

The owners of the two flats on Cromwell Court, overlooking Dunbar Harbour, in East Lothian, both challenged the council’s refusal to allow them to carry on letting out the properties by using a certificate of lawful use.

They argued that they did not need to apply for a change of use of the properties as there was ‘no material difference’ to using them for short term holidays or long term leasing.

However Scottish Ministers have dismissed their appeals after their Reporter ruled the flats did need planning permission to carry on and were not ‘lawful’.

The owner of one of the flats revealed it was rented out 89 per cent of the year to a wide range of guests from Edinburgh Festival attendees to wedding guests, and people attending sporting events.

The other said their flat was advertised on Airbnb and welcomed holidaymakers and workers to stay.

The Reporter said in the case of the flat which was occupied nearly 90 per cent of the time that its proximity to the heart of the seaside town would increase the impact on residents living in the flat block.

They said: “Given the access to the town centre and the local bars, restaurants and other attractions, I consider that guests are more likely to come and go from the property with greater frequency and are likely to generate more activity later in the evenings and at night time than neighbouring residents, at a time when residents may want a more peaceful atmosphere.”

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

An overnight parking ban at East Lothian’s coastal car parks is set to be made permanent with a new curfew of 11pm introduced.

East Lothian Council’s cabinet members will be asked to approve the new night time closures, which have been trialled along the coast, after the closing time was changed.

And they will decide whether to allow a number of designated overnight spaces for motor homes at some of the car parks, which will have to be pre-booked by visitors.

A report to cabinet says that since the Covid pandemic coastal car parks in the county have seen an increase in the number of vehicles visiting.

It says: “Camping and motor home activity at coastal car parks has caused damage to the biodiversity of this protected area by the lighting of fires and barbecues as well as generating litter.”

Officers introduced a trial 10pm to 6am ban on parking last year with a very limited number of motor home spaces available for overnight stops.

Now they are asking councillors to allow them to introduce a new ban which will run from 11pm to 4am following feedback from the public and provide additional motor home parking spaces at Linkfield and Whitesands at Dunbar and the Boat Yard, Prestonpans in the future.

There are currently some motor home spaces available at Yellowcraig Beach and Shore Road, Belhaven. It is expected all the spaces set aside for motor homes will have to be pre-booked.

Visitor numbers to East Lothian’s coast have surged since the Covid pandemic leading to extra patrols being sent out to oversee campers and a crackdown on overnight stays.

Last month the countryside rangers reported an ‘alarming amount of human waste’ being found at its sites, in particular at  the most popular beach Yellowcraig.

Cabinet will be asked to approve the new order when it meets later this week.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Two men have been convicted following the death of a 59-year-old man in the Leith area of Edinburgh. 

The body of Garry O’Neill was found in a flat on Primrose Street on Tuesday, 6 June, 2023. 
 
At the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday, 9 September, 2024, Jamie Boulton, aged 55, was found guilty of murder following the death of Mr O’Neill. 
 
Nathan Boulton (pictured) , aged 49, was found guilty of attempting to defeat the ends of justice. 
 
They will be sentenced at a later date. 
 
Detective Inspector Kevin Tait, senior investigating officer, said: “Our thoughts are with Mr O’Neill’s family and friends and we hope that the result in court brings them a degree of closure. 
 
“This was a deliberate act that ended in a death and Jamie Boulton will now face the consequences of his actions that day. 
 
“His brother Nathan Boulton, now faces justice after he tried to conceal what happened. 
 
“We would like to thank the public for their assistance and support during our investigation. 
 
“Violence is not acceptable in our society and Police Scotland will use all the tools it has to investigate and bring those intent on committing crime and harm in our communities to justice.”  

Supporters of Erskine Veterans Charity attended the 21-Gun Salute today at noon. The salute marked two years since the accession of HM King Charles III to the throne.

This was an opportunity to wish The Governor of Edinburgh Castle farewell.

The Governor of Edinburgh Castle, Major General Alastair Bruce of Crionaich, OBE, VR, DL, retires from the Army at midnight tonight. He will also leave his position as Governor of the Castle. Anyone following Alastair Bruce on X will know he has been running a commentary on his time as Governor – and particularly the sad news of his leaving the post.

Earlier this year General Alastair visited the Erskine Veterans Village in Bishopton and met with Erskine Chief Executive Ian Cumming, who said: “It was an absolute delight to showcase Erskine’s evolving care, accommodation and community services to General Alastair. Everyone in our Veteran Family, who met him, enjoyed his lively chat and questions. As Governor of Edinburgh Castle, General Alastair has proven to be a charismatic advocate of our work. We are honoured to be hosting this inaugural Royal ascension salute, alongside him, before he departs. We hope we can collaborate with his successor to raise awareness of our services, as they expand across Scotland.”

General Alastair said: “Any visit to Erskine is uplifting: the work done by so many staff and volunteers to care for our more needy Veterans, simply elevates the mind.  I have a carved Scottish sentry and sentry box standing in the entrance hall of my Quarter, which was made by an Erskine Veteran and, when I leave the Castle, they are coming with me as a constant reminder of the joy and fellowship Erskine creates.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are holding an Open Day for 999 call handlers.

The event will be held on 14 and 15 September from 10am to 3pm at the Tollcross control room.

Station Commander Control Susan Conroy, who is based in Edinburgh, said: “Our open day is designed to offer a first-hand look into the vital role that our Firefighter Control teams play in our emergency response.

“Our Firefighter Control staff play an important role in our communities by responding to a variety of emergencies, from house fires to water and animal rescues.

“We are looking for people with strong communication and problem-solving skills, especially in high-pressure situations.

“It’s a hugely rewarding career where you work part of a closely-knit team, playing a key role in keeping people safe in their time of need.”

Successful applicants will undergo an initial training course which involves a wide range of incidents scenarios, including house fires, road traffic collisions, and weather-related incidents.

Trainees will also learn how to provide fire survival guidance to individuals trapped by smoke or fire.

It takes 36 months to become a fully qualified Firefighter Control, with regular assessments to work towards achieving competent status.

Register here.

More information here.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Edinburgh Folk Club, (EFC) will take place this Wednesday when new office bearers will take over running the club.

The meeting will be held at 8.00pm on Wednesday 11 September 2024 at the Ukrainian Community Centre, 14 Royal Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5AB.

The club elected a new committee earlier this year after the old committee decided to step down and allow some “new blood” to take over. There was a real threat of the club being wound up – or amalgamating with Leith Folk Club which had been discussed informally. The committee resigned as they had “long years of service” and they recognised that new people might be able to secure the viability of the club.

• Agenda:
• a) Minutes of 2023 AGM
• b) Matters arising
• c) Chair’s report
• d) Treasurer’s report
• e) AOCB
• f) Election of committee members

The current office bearers are:

Chair: John Barrow
Vice-Chair: Kathleen Smith
Secretary/Treasurer: Pamela King

The new committee names are:

Co-Chair: Sharyn Montgomery.
Co-Chair (+Booker): Kirsty-Jacqueline H Lingard
Treasurer (+Booker): Gary West
Secretary: Ailsa Dixon
Co-opted Committee Member: Tim Martin

A decapitated swan has been found in the canal near Fountainbridge, but locals say they appear to be the only ones concerned about either the bird or the alleged crime.

According to several sources the bird – which is a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside legislation – was first of all injured on Saturday when involved in a collision with the driver of a vehicle somewhere around Fountainbridge near the canal.

A fisherman who found the injured bird reported the injuries to SEPA on Saturday afternoon who said they would do something, but don’t appear to have taken any action.

The council was called and confirmed they would only come to collect the body on Monday morning. The locals were told not to touch the bird because of Avian flu. The council did not eventually attend as Scottish Canals came on Monday to remove the dead bird – which has no identifying tags on it.

After it was discovered to be injured, the swan was later found covered over by a blanket. When one of the fishermen removed the blanket they made the gruesome find that its neck had been cut off right next to its body.

The dead (and injured) swan’s mate had been distressed although he seems to have disappeared. Swans mate for life often when young and remain monogamous for their whole lives, also living in the same area.

The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) offers this guidance: “It is illegal to cause deliberate or reckless harm to swans, their eggs and their nests. If anyone commits offenses like destroying a nest or shooting swans with an airgun, this crime should be reported to Police Scotland on 101. But it appears that the police did not want to know.

LOCALS

Fiona McIntyre who lives on a houseboat said: “My concern is that this is a criminal offence and nobody seems to want to do anything about it. I have never seen anything like this in all the 20 years I have lived here. It was injured but intact, and someone has since decapitated it – possibly without even taking it out of the water.”

Dharma Reyes Macaya who also lives on a boat at Fountainbridge said: “I saw the two swans during the week and then on Friday I spent a bit of time with them. They were both super friendly to people.

“On Sunday I was trying to feed the male swan some hours before we made the horrible discovery. I thought the swan was hungry and wanted food, He was staring in the window of my boat – they do that when they are hungry. But when I put the swan food out he didn’t seem to like it. Some hours later my neighbour found him distressed crying near to the female swan’s body. He spent the night next to our boat. It is the first time that abuse like this has happened next to our homes.

“We clean the canal everyday due to people who trash plastic bottles and other things in the canal. We as boaters take great care of all our wildlife neighbours including the swans, ducks, kingfisher and cormorant.”

A local who also lives on the canal said: “I contacted police on 101 and they phoned back two hours later saying it’s nothing to do with them.

“Another neighbour contacted the SSPCA who said to contact council for removal of the dead bird. She did this and the council are collecting on Monday morning.

“My neighbour and the boating community are shocked that although this is a crime no one really seems that bothered.”

When we contacted Police Scotland we were advised that “the caller was advised to contact the SSPCA. If they deem there to be any criminality, they will refer the matter to Police Scotland”.

The Edinburgh Reporter understands that Cllr Scott Arthur, the Labour councillor recently elected to Westminster, has now officially resigned from his elected position.

This will result in a by-election on 14 November 2024 to fill the vacancy in the three member ward of Colinton/Fairmilehead. The other councillors are Marco Biagi, a former SNP Minister, and Scottish Conservative Jason Rust at present.

The by-election has to be held within three months of the vacancy occurring, and the Returning Officer, Paul Lawrence, will choose the date. A public announcement will be made in due course.

The resignation will take effect on 16 September, when the council’s by-election machinery will begin.

Neil Cuthbert is standing as the Scottish Conservatives candidate, but other parties are yet to confirm their selections.

Dr Arthur now holds the Edinburgh South West seat, following in the footsteps of his former Labour colleague Alistair Darling who became Chancellor of the Exchequer. Scott has recently advised that he is one of the 20 successful applicants in the lottery to propose a Private Member’s Bill in parliament. Tracy Gilbert MP for Edinburgh North and Leith has also been successful in the ballot along with Wendy Chamberlain the LibDem MP for North East Fife and John Grady the Labour MP for Glasgow East.

He is one of 15 back bench MPs whose selection of legislation has a real chance of making it onto the statute books. There were 458 MPs who entered the ballot out of the 650 sitting MPs at Westminster. The choice is made by picking a number on a lottery ball and the results announced by the Clerk Assistant in the House of Commons, Sarah Davies.

Police are issuing a warning over the sale of motorbikes online following a number of thefts in the West Lothian area.

Recently officers have received reports of motorbikes for sale on social media selling pages being taken for test drives and not returned.

Constable Grant Hillhouse, Livingston Police Station, said: “There has been an increase recently in the number of thefts reported of motorbikes being sold online.

“Typically this involves the potential buyer asking to take the bike for a test drive and not returning or paying for it.

“I’d urge anyone looking to sell online to ensure every precaution is taken to ensure the security of their property.”

You can find more advice on staying safe online and online shopping on our website: https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/scams-and-frauds/cyber-related-financial-crime/

New electric buses

The first of Lothian’s fully electric, double decker buses took to the Edinburgh routes over the weekend in an important milestone in the company’s 105-year history.

The Volvo BZL Electric buses, which will be operating initially on the Service 8 and 9 routes, offer customers improved comfort and quieter journeys, with each accommodating more than 70 passengers and featuring Wi-Fi, high back seats and handy USB charging points. Each vehicle also includes two wheelchair spaces.

At an investment of more than £24 million, Lothian’s commitment to introduce cleaner, greener buses into the fleet underpins one aspect of a much wider strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2035. The business has already taken massive strides in fitting the necessary infrastructure at its main depot in Annandale Street to support the charging of the vehicles, with future plans to ‘electrify’ the company’s other depots as set out in Lothian’s ‘Driving towards Net Zero’ environmental strategy.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director at Lothian, said: “Lothian’s decarbonisation strategy has a massive role to play in reaching local and national government climate change targets to safeguard our environment while bringing wider social, health and economic benefits for the city.

“From a customer experience perspective, these new buses will provide visitors and residents with quieter, comfortable journeys. From our drivers’ perspectives, they will enjoy an enhanced driver workspace with improved vision in all conditions thanks to a camera-based mirror system.

“I am excited to see the first of these vehicles hit the streets of Scotland’s capital in a monumental moment in Lothian’s 105-year history and look forward to the new chapter of our net zero journey.”

At the council this week

Monday, 9th September, 2024

• 9.30 am – 2.00 pm Licensing Sub-Committee – Dean of Guild Court Room – City Chambers

Tuesday, 10th September, 2024

• 9.30 am – 2.30 pm Licensing Sub-Committee – Dean of Guild Court Room – City Chambers

Wednesday, 11th September, 2024

• 10.00 am Planning Local Review Body (Panel 1) – Dean of Guild Court Room – City Chambers
• 2.00 pm Planning Committee – Dean of Guild Court Room – City Chambers

Thursday, 12th September, 2024

• 10.00 am Transport and Environment Committee – Dean of Guild Court Room – City Chambers

Friday, 13th September, 2024

Edinburgh Riding of the Marches

This event takes place next Sunday. Notwithstanding the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the city centre, there are some horse boxes which have been given an exemption from the rules. This will allow them to come into the city centre even though they do not comply with the emission requirements and pick up their horses after the event which ends at the Mercat Cross – all without getting a ticket.

The Council Leader, Cammy Day, the Rt Hon Lord Provost and the Provost Consort are all taking part on horseback as they did last year.

There is new entertainment on the Royal Mile this year – there is always a lot to see for the crowds which assemble there ahead of the horses and riders arriving outside the City Chambers. Wild Knights Jousting and Tournaments will perform a Border Reiver act there with horses and armour.

Assemble at the Royal Mile from 12.30 to be entertained and enjoy the Riding of the Marches 2024.

The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches was formed in 2008 to promote and facilitate the annual re-enactment of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches and all its associated traditions, commemorating Randolph Murray’s return with the ancient Blue Blanket and the tragic news of the defeat of the Scottish Army at the Battle of Flodden. 

Read more here about the historical event that takes place in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre.

Concert for Ukraine

On 12 October there is a concert at St Cecilia’s Hall at 7.30pm featuring Ukrainian pianist Daria Golovchenko who won the Channel 4 programme The Piano. Tickets are £25 at sunflowerscotland.co.uk

The funds raised will be used for families in the Kherson region who have suffered during the war. Many families could not leave and need help. Edinburgh based charity Sunflower Scotland has visited the area on multiple occasions delivering aid to the the people in the war-zone. Read more here.

Online public meeting

UPDATE 10 September – Police Scotland say Aydin Dogan has been found safe and well.

Mystery surrounds the welfare and whereabouts of a popular Edinburgh business owner.

Aydin Dogan, aged 42, was last seen on Friday afternoon, 6 September 2024 when left his home in the east of the city to go to his café business on Portobello High Street.

But concerned family members have now launched an appeal saying they are “desperate” for news of his whereabouts.

Mr Dogan has run Eyden’s Coffee and Friends for the last five years and the café is a venue for this weekend’s Porty Art Walk.

But the family said there had been a misunderstanding, and police last night turned up to change the locks at the premises.

Mr Dogan’s brother, Hussein, had travelled from Cambridge to Edinburgh with other family members from London.

He said: “We’re really worried, and are desperate to hear news, or hear from Aydin. He was last on the phone on Friday afternoon about 3 o’clock, but we’ve not heard anything since and we cannot contact him. We are keen to hear from anyone – please phone 07867 620965.”

Hussein Dogan revealed that in the past his brother Aydin had suffered from depression, but received medication. It is believed that he did disappear some time ago, but not while living in Edinburgh.

According to Police Scotland Aydin was last seen in the Portobello area around 4pm on Friday, 6 September, 2024.  

He is described as around 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, short grey/black hair, a grey/black beard and has an English accent. When Aydin was last seen he was wearing a dark jacket, white t-shirt, dark trousers and black and white trainers. 

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare and are appealing for help from the public to trace him. 

Inspector Sean McGarvey, Craigmillar Police Station, said: “It’s vital we trace Aydin as soon as possible to ensure he is safe and well. 

“If you think you’ve seen Aydin since Friday afternoon or have any information on his whereabouts, please get in touch with us. 

“Aydin, if you see this appeal, please contact police so we can make sure you’re okay.” 

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 4641 of 6 September. 

Police are appealing for information following a serious crash in Edinburgh on Saturday, 7 September, 2024.

Around 2.10pm officers were called to the collision involving a white van and a pedestrian on The Wisp.

The pedestrian, a 31-year-old woman, was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where she remains in a serious but stable condition.

The van failed to stop and was seen making off in the direction of Old Dalkeith Road and Ferniehill Drive.

The road was closed while investigations were carried out and reopened around 6.15pm.

Enquiries are ongoing to trace the van and driver and officers are appealing for witnesses.

Road Policing Constable Andrew Crothers said: “It’s vital we trace the van involved in this incident and I’m appealing to the public for help.

“Were you in the area at the time and witnessed what happened? Did you see a white van in the Old Dalkeith Road or Ferniehill Drive areas? If so, please come forward.

“I’m also appealing to anyone with a dashcam, private CCTV or doorbell cameras to please review your footage and bring anything you think may be of significance to our attention.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1978 of 7 September. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The site for the new national Queen Elizabeth II Memorial has been announced as St James’s Park, London and others will follow elsewhere in the UK.

The memorial site will include the area of St James’s Park adjacent to The Mall at Marlborough Gate, and land surrounding the pathway down to the lake, including the Blue Bridge.

The site was chosen because of its close proximity to the ceremonial route of The Mall, its historical and constitutional significance and personal connection to Queen Elizabeth. It is close to Buckingham Palace – the Monarch’s official residence – the Commonwealth headquarters, and statues of her parents King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

In recognition of the impact Her late Majesty had across the UK, the UK Government will also make available funding for memorial projects in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further details on how this will be taken forward will be available in due course.

Hundreds of years of history will descend on Blackness Castle today with the return of the popular annual Siege on the Forth Event. 

The “ship that never sailed” will host living history encampments from Medieval and Napoleonic eras up to the early 20th century. Visitors were also treated to arena shows with musketry performances and were also offered the chance to have a go at stonemasonry, as well as enjoying bird watching from the battlements. 

‘Siege on the Forth’ will take place on Sunday 8 September from 12pm – 4pm. 

Tickets for the event can be bought in advance online at alittlehistory.scot.

Entry is free for Historic Scotland members. 

OASIS fans hoping to stay in Edinburgh when the reunited group play at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium next year face having to pay more than £1,000 per night for an Airbnb, new figures show.

News of the much-anticipated Oasis 2025 reunion tour sent fans into a frenzy, with many scrambling to secure gold dust tickets before they sold out within hours of going on sale.

Controversial “dynamic pricing” saw many fans paying hundreds of pounds for tour tickets with local hotels already adding to the misery with soaring prices on the nights the Wonderwall rockers play. The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating concerns regarding the sale of Oasis concert tickets by Ticketmaster, including how so-called “dynamic pricing” may have been used.

Now the cost of Airbnb accommodation is set to add to fans financial woes, with hosts hiking up prices to match growing demand in Edinburgh and other cities featured on the tour.

A study by marketing expert QR Code Generator found that fans hoping to stay in Edinburgh on the nights Oasis are due to perform, August 8,9 and 12, will be paying an average of £1,130 per night.

Edinburgh – which will also be hosting the annual summer Festivals at the same time – was found to be the second highest-priced city on the Oasis tour, with Airbnb costs peaking at £1,259 on Friday 8 August.

The price is more than double the average Airbnb accommodation price (£573 per night) on all Oasis tour dates.

Fans looking forward to seeing Oasis in Edinburgh on Saturday 9 and Tuesday 12 August may also face challenges in finding budget-friendly options, with an average Airbnb price per night of £1,169 and £963 respectively.

With fewer than 150 Airbnb properties available on each of those Edinburgh dates, hosts are now charging a premium for their listings.

Cardiff was named the most expensive city to stay in on the Oasis tour, with average Airbnb price for the July 4 show reaching £1601 – a staggering 13 times higher than the £119 average price for Central London on 3 August.

Fans hoping to book an Airbnb in Dublin on the night of Oasis’ August 16 tour stop face paying £521.

And fans seeing the band in Oasis’ home city of Manchester face an average Airbnb price of £514, peaking on July 19 when fans can expect to pay an average of £607 for the night.

The average cost in London is £132 for a one-night stay across the five show dates.

Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator, said: “Oasis fans attending the Edinburgh shows are facing a significant surge in accommodation costs, with Airbnb prices reaching up to £1,259 per night.

“While not as high as Cardiff, the prices are still over eight times the average for the London shows.

“With limited availability, prices are likely to shoot up even further as accommodation options run out.

“Fans will need to be smart about booking. Our advice is to book early to lock in lower prices before they increase even more as we get closer to the tour dates.

“It’s also worth looking at places a bit outside the city centre, where you might find cheaper options, even if it means a slightly longer journey.

“Don’t forget to check out alternatives like hostels or budget hotels – they can sometimes offer better value than Airbnbs. And if you can, consider staying for multiple nights to take advantage of discounts that many places offer for longer stays.”

Edinburgh writers including Val McDermid, Kim Sherwood and D V Bishop have been shortlisted for the prize for the best Scottish crime book of 2024.

They are joined by two more leading crime writers in Abir Mukherjee and Chris Brookmyre on the shortlist for the McIlvanney Prize.

The winner of Scotland’s most prestigious award for crime fiction will be announced on the opening night of the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival in Stirling on 13 September.

The prize, sponsored by The Glencairn Glass, is dedicated to the late William McIlvanney, dubbed “the father of Tartan Noir”.

The winner will receive a Glencairn Crystal Decanter, £1000 and nationwide promotion in Waterstones.

Previous McIlvanney Prize winner Brookmyre is shortlisted for his thriller “The Cracked Mirror” (Sphere), while “Queen of Crime” McDermid got the nod for her latest Karen Pirie novel “Past Lying” (Sphere).

Bishop is shortlisted for the latest book in his acclaimed Cesare Aldo series “A Divine Fury” (Pan Macmillan) while Mukherjee’s novel for “Hunted” (Vintage) is set in the run up to the US presidential election and Sherwood’s “A Spy Like Me” (HarperCollins) has been described as “Fleming for the 21st century”.

The shortlist was selected by judges, BBC Scotland presenter Bryan Burnett, Category Manager for Waterstones Angie Crawford and Journalist and Editor Arusa Quresh.

Brookmyre, whose 30th crime novel will be published next year, won the inaugural McIlvanney Prize with Black Widow in 2016. The Cracked Mirror is described as a cross-genre hybrid of Agatha Christie and Michael Connelly.

The judges said: “A truly original idea, executed with skill and imagination. The combination of Perthshire and Los Angeles shouldn’t work but it does.”

McDermid is one of the most revered crime writers in Scotland. Past Lying is the new novel featuring Karen Pirie, the first of which is now a major TV series.
 
The judges said: “A welcome return for the much-loved Karen Pirie in this satisfying novel which contains a few in-jokes for lovers of Scottish crime writing.”

D V Bishop got his first big break at Bloody Scotland when he won Pitch Perfect with his first book in the Cesare Aldo series. A Divine Fury is the fourth. Originally from New Zealand, he teaches creative writing at Edinburgh Napier University.

The judges said: “A pungent and complex slice of intrigue set 16th century Florence. A brilliant historical novel which feels strangely contemporary and a worthy addition to this series.”

Mukherjee was brought up in Hamilton near Glasgow and now lives in Surrey. Hunted is a timely thriller set in the run up to the US election.
 
The judges said: “An excellent, topical thriller with verve, pace and style aplenty and something completely different for this author. A kind of British Baldacci.”

Sherwood is a novelist and lecturer in creative writing at the University of Edinburgh. In 2019 she was shortlisted for the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Award. Described as a “Fleming for the 21st Century”, A Spy Like Me is the second in a trilogy of Double O novels expanding the James Bond universe.

The judges said: “An exciting addition to the Bond canon which brings a fresh new set of characters brilliantly to life.”

Bloody Scotland is unique in that it was set up by a group of Scottish crime writers along with the prize for Scotland’s best crime book of the year.

In 2016, the award was renamed after William McIlvanney, the novelist, short story writer and poet regarded as “the father of Tartan Noir” who died aged 79 on 5 December 2015.

Around 3.20pm on Saturday, 7 September, 2024, the body of a woman was found in the Hound Point area of South Queensferry.

Formal identification is yet to take place but the family of missing Edinburgh woman, Jenny Hastings, has been informed.

There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Mrs Hastings is the wife of Scottish rugby cap, Scott Hastings and was reported missing while swimming in Wardie Bay on Tuesday afternoon.

The Wisp, Edinburgh is closed in both directions following a crash which was reported to police around 2.10pm Saturday, 7 September, 2024.

Emergency services are in attendance.

Police say that drivers and pedestrians are advised to avoid the area where possible.

The latest cadre of Police Scotland probationers were sworn into the office of police constable on Thursday 5 September 2024, at regional training centres across the country. 

The 129 officers will begin their 13 weeks of operational training on 9 September before deploying to communities on 9 December this year. 

Their employment adds to the organisation’s plan to recruit its largest ever intake in a single year with around 1,300 probationers due to start. 

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “I am grateful to our new officers for stepping forward to help keep Scotland safe. 

“I have been clear that I want to bring the frontline of policing to its strongest position possible which is why we plan to recruit over 1,300 officers during 2024-25, the highest number in a single year for Police Scotland. 

“Being a police officer is a privilege. It comes with powers which set us apart from the rest of society and with those powers comes significant responsibilities. 

“When our new officers deploy to communities in December they will, at all times, uphold our core values of integrity, fairness, respect and a commitment to upholding human rights.” 

Meanwhile Divisional Commander David Robertson welcomed 15 new Police Constables who are all looking forward to putting their college training into practice. They deploy to their teams across the City this weekend to help 

A man arrested by detectives investigating the disappearance of Khasha Smith has been charged.

Khasha, of Edinburgh, was last seen to be safe and well on a FaceTime call on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023, aged 35.

Following extensive enquiries, Khasha is believed to be dead. However, her body is yet to be found.

A 39-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with her death.

He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 9 September, 2024.

Khasha’s family have been made aware and have asked that their privacy is respected.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, is appealing to the public for information.

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Khasha’s family at this extremely difficult time and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

“They are understandably devastated and it is vital we get answers for them.

“Extensive enquiries remain ongoing to trace Khasha and I would again encourage anyone with any information regarding her disappearance to contact police, as a matter of urgency.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital, so please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3915 of 5 January 2024.

Alternatively information can be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

What’s in a Name: The Story of Colinton’s Place Names

Earlier this year, members of The Colinton Local History Society got together to develop a new guide to Colinton’s place names which answers these questions and many others. What’s in a Name: The Story of Colinton’s Place Names covers around 150 street and place names and natural features within Colinton. Some will be familiar, others not so well known. For example, do you know where Adams Well, The Turlies or Chucklie Knowe are?

Did you know that The Gallolee was named after a field in the Dreghorn estate, that Thorburn Road was built to provide access to cottages built by the Aged Christian Friends Society and named after the mother of R A Macfie of Dreghorn, or that The Shoot was a short cut to Colinton Station? 

What’s in a Name: The Story of Colinton’s Place Names lets you see the history of Colinton through its place names in an engaging and informative way. It covers the areas of Hailes and Spylaw, The Village and Colinton Road, Woodhall, Bonaly and Laverockdale, Redford and Dreghorn, and Craiglockhart and Redhall..   The book also contains a section describing the historical development of Colinton, includes references to notable residents and buildings, and has a full index. It is illustrated with historical photographs from the Society’s archives and maps have been specially created for each area to show the location of the places mentioned.

What’s in a Name: The Story of Colinton’s Place Names is now available from the Society, from Colinton Post Office, the Swing Café and other local retailers and on Amazon at a cost of only £6.99.  

Or better still, come along to one of our meetings in Dreghorn Loan Hall, take out a membership and qualify for a special Member’s discount. Contact info@colintonhistory.org.uk for more information or visit our website www.colintonhistory.org.uk 

All profits from sales of the book go to support the activities of the Colinton Local History Society.