Not content with the number of race days they already have Musselburgh Racecourse has told us this afternoon that they have an extra day for you.

Musselburgh Racecourse has stepped in to add an extra jumps fixture – with free entry – following an abandonment at Leicester due to firm ground.

The East Lothian course will race on Monday 14 November 2016 with a seven card fixture and prize money of £45,000.

Gates open at 11am and the first race has a provisional start time of 12.30pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse managing director, Bill Farnsworth, said: “With Leicester having to abandon on Monday we saw an opportunity to provide trainers and owners with an alternative. The ground at Musselburgh is good and there is some rain forecast over the weekend.”

For more information check www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Morningside Community Council will meet on 16 November at The Open Door from 7.30pm.

Their office bearers are now Chair Arne Strid, Vice-Chair Brian Auld, Secretary Steve Gregory, Treasurer Betty Barber and Planning Officer Goff Cantley.

The agenda includes the replacement of trees on Newbattle Terrace and Braid Road and a proposal for RNIB Talking Book on Morningside.

The next meeting will take place on 21 December 2016.

More news on the community council’s website. Click here.

They also have a Facebook page here.

The Scottish SPCA is calling on daredevils to abseil down The Falkirk Wheel to raise vital funds.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity has spaces left for the exciting challenge which takes place on Saturday 22 April 2017.

Balerno centre manager, Diane Aitchison said, “This is the first time we have organised an abseil at The Falkirk Wheel and spaces are going fast.

“It’s a fantastic challenge for anyone who wants to do something fun and memorable to help animals in the local area.

“Those who have completed abseils for the charity in previous years have said that it’s an amazing experience and one they’ll never forget.

“There will be a team of highly skilled instructors to ensure participants are equipped with everything they need to make the abseil as safe and enjoyable as possible.

“We rely on public support to continue our work rescuing abused, abandoned and injured animals so every penny and pound raised in sponsorship really does count.”

Cheryl McLoughlan from Hamilton who previously took part in the Titan Crane abseil said, “I was terrified on the day but excited too. I had never taken part in anything like it before.

“That moment I had to climb over the side of the crane to my descent was pretty scary, but as soon as I got going I was loving it!

Anyone interested in taking part in the abseil can call the Scottish SPCA fundraising team on 03000 999 999 (option 4) or email fundraising@scottishspca.org for further information.

Photo by Peter-Sandground

Police officers and members of the public have been honoured at the Police Scotland Bravery and Meritorious Service Awards.

Chief Constable Phil Gormley QPM yesterday presented commendations for bravery and meritorious conduct to 36 police officers and 21 members of the public for the efforts to keep people safe at a ceremony at Police Scotland College, Tulliallan.

Police officers who received commendations included a Constable who, despite being hit in the face with an iron, was able to prevent three men from intervening in an arrest in Glasgow, two Constables from Fife who were attacked by an abusive member of the public armed with a Taser, and a Road Policing Sergeant in Edinburgh who – along with two members of the public – saved the life of a man walking along the M8 motorway.

Among the members of the public who were honoured were five young boys from Edinburgh who spotted a distressed woman entering the water at Gypsy Brae and tried to stop her, before alerting HM Coastguard and recording the incident on a mobile phone, and two off-duty Marie Curie nurses in Aberdeenshire who stopped to assist an off duty police officer who had been the victim of a hit and run road traffic accident.

The Chief Constable said, “It is genuinely humbling to hear of the extraordinary lengths people have gone to, to help others. I was privileged to present these awards, meet the winners and to hear more about their stories.

“It is absolutely right we honour their bravery and show not only how proud we are of our police officers in Scotland, but also of members of the public who don’t hesitate to take action to help another person at what could be the most difficult time of that individual’s life.

“The actions of today’s winners – both officers and members of the public – have undoubtedly saved lives and touched the hearts of people across the country.

“People become police officers to help others – I hope these awards make more people consider policing as a career when they see the difference they could make to others in their day to day work.”

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said, “Today I have met exceptional people whose actions have saved lives, supported the vulnerable and brought criminals to justice.

“This is a chance for us to recognise the actions of police officers and staff who have gone beyond the call of duty to help others in times of great need. Also members of the public who have shown true community spirit and put themselves at risk to help others, including five young people whose maturity and resourcefulness avoided a potentially tragic outcome.

“We are indebted to everyone receiving awards today. I have no doubt their actions have touched the lives of individuals, families and communities across the country. They serve as an inspiration to us all.”

Andrew Flanagan, Chair of the Scottish Police Authority, said, “I am in no doubt that the loyalty and flexibility shown by our officers and staff are the biggest contributor to the continuing quality of service delivered to our communities.

“Today’s awards are an opportunity for us to acknowledge and reward the outstanding work that our officers and staff do day in, day out. But importantly, the awards also give us the unique opportunity to acknowledge those members of the public who have helped policing to keep the people of Scotland safe. Congratulations to all today’s winners.”

The event was generously sponsored by Police Mutual and its Chief Executive Stephen Mann said, “Police Mutual is very proud to be the sponsor of the Police Scotland Bravery Awards. It is an honour we are able to recognise these brave individuals who have acted so selflessly for the benefit of their communities.”

Ireland complete the treble at Glasgow Green

Captained for this match by Edinburgh University’s Becky Merchant, Scotland women lost 1-0 to Ireland in the third and final encounter of the test series against a tough Irish side one place above them in the world rankings.

This game, like the previous two, was a closely fought match with the visitors just edging the result through clinical finishing.

Ireland looked the most likely side to score in the first half but found Scotland’s goalkeeper Lucy Camlin on top form. Ireland won two penalty corners; the first was well saved by Camlin low to her right, while the other sailed over the bar.

The Scots’ best chance of the half came in 24 minutes when both Sarah Jamieson and Emma McGregor fired shots goal-wards only to see them blocked by the Irish goalkeeper.

As the half drew to a close the Irish were awarded two further penalty corners, neither of which were successful, and the half ended goalless.

The Scots were caught cold in the opening minute of the second half when they conceded another penalty corner, but, despite a brilliant double save from Camlin, Ireland`s Nicola Daly was on hand to force the ball home. The reversal stimulated the Scots into action, winning two penalty corners, but both of Kareena Cuthbert`s efforts were blocked. Then the Western Wildcats’ player had a good run and shot but it went wide of the target.

Although the Irish were awarded two further set pieces, the Scots continued to search for the equaliser. Another penalty corner was forthcoming but, again, Cuthbert`s shot was charged down by an Irish defender.

Scotland, with a strong support at their back continued to press for the elusive goal as they moved the ball around the pitch at pace, Ireland battling hard at the back to keep them at bay. In the closing minutes a cross by Millie Brown created a scramble in the circle but the danger was cleared and Ireland`s single goal separated the sides at the final hooter.

Scotland’s Captain, Becky Merchant, gives her reaction to the match.

Basis of match report courtesy of Scottish Hockey

Images from the match will appear here over the next few days

Multi-award winning Scottish folksinger Emily Smith will be appearing at the Queen’s Hall on Friday 9th December.

Emily has been a leading voice of the Scottish folk scene for over a decade. 2016 sees the release of her sixth solo album ‘Songs For Christmas’.

Her career began in 2002 when she became BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year. Subsequent accolades include Scots Singer of the Year 2008 & 2014 and two nominations at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2012 (Folksinger of the Year & Best Traditional Track). On ‘Songs For Christmas’ Emily presents a beautifully crafted album of original and traditional material drawn from her folk background. The material has been written and collected over the last few years in response to the popularity of her annual Christmas show held in Emily’s home region of Dumfries & Galloway, South West Scotland.

The result is an album of songs that inspire, comfort and celebrate Christmas and the winter season. Forgotten gems such as the ancient Scots ‘Christ Has My Hairt, Ay’ and soulful ballad ‘Heard From Heaven Today’ feature alongside contemporary covers and favourite carols. Smith’s songwriting also features with two originals ‘Winter Song’ and the single ‘Find Hope’. Joining Emily on the ‘Songs For Christmas’ album are multi-instrumentalists Jamie McClennan (fiddle, guitar, vocals), Matheu Watson (guitars, viola) and Ross Hamilton (bass, drums, vocals). Produced by Jamie McClennan and Brandon Bell (Southern Ground, Nashville/Zac Brown Band).

The album will be released worldwide on White Fall Records on Friday 2^nd December 2016.

To launch the album Emily will be touring throughout the UK: Joining Emily on the TOUR are Jamie McLennan, and Anna Massie, with the addition of Ross Hamilton at Edinburgh and Dumfries. *There will also be a special mystery guest appearing in Edinburgh, a very well know female Scottish singer songwriter that we’re very excited about.

2^nd Dec – Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth, (North Yorkshire)

3rd Dec – St Lawrence’s Church, Biddulph

4^th Dec – Loch Arthur Farm Shop, Beeswing

9^th Dec – Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh*

10^th Dec – The Arc Sessions, Inchberry Hall, Fochabers

11^th Dec – Woodend Barn, Banchory

15^th Dec – Theatre Royal, Dumfries

16^th Dec – McMillan Hall, Newton Stewart

18^th Dec – Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill

Photo by Jamie McLennan

Just as we get into the second week of November it is time for all good retailers to unveil their Christmas adverts.

So here is the first from the capital’s favourite, John Lewis. We will add more in here when we find them – so if you know of any then do add them in the comments section below!

And here is another from Aldi…..about Kevin the Carrot

The City of Edinburgh Council are holding a “BBC Question Time” style panel tomorrow night which will feature senior councillors.

They will be questioned by members of the public about changes to council services. This event is being staged as part of the council’s “wider engagement” with city residents over these proposed changes.

More than a hundred of the city’s residents have so far registered to attend the event, and the Council are encouraging everyone who cannot make it to watch online as they will be live streaming on their website.

Those in the audience will get the opportunity to ask questions of the councillors, but the panel will also be accepting questions from Twitter as well.

The event is taking place in the city chambers at 7:15pm and will be chaired by Euan McGrory, Deputy Editor of The Scotsman, Edinburgh Evening News and Scotland on Sunday.

Cllr Alasdair Rankin, said: “We have an increasing population, inflationary pressures, decreased budgets and greater demand for our services so it is really important that we get residents’ views on how we can more efficiently deliver services. 

“We’ve had an excellent response to our Question Time event again this year and I would encourage residents to take the opportunity to tune in live via the Council’s webcasting service and send in a question via Twitter on the night. The wider engagement on changes to council services doesn’t end until 21 November so there is also still plenty to time to give us your views, online, by phone or in writing.

“Last year’s event was well attended with an additional 250 tuning in live via our webcast, which was subsequently watched by almost 4,000 people via our archive.”

To submit any questions use the hashtag #PlayYourPart

Watch the event live here.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon addressed the outcome of the US election, with Donald Trump defeating Hillary Clinton.

As we all knew by early this morning Trump is now the President-Elect of the United States, thus denying Clinton the position of first woman US President.

In her comments, the First Minister conceded that this election result was not the one she would have liked, before tentatively congratulating Donald Trump on his victory.

“While this is not the outcome I hoped for, it is the verdict of the American people and we must respect it. I congratulate president-elect Trump on winning the election.

“We value our relationship with the United States and its people.  The ties that bind Scotland and the US – of family, culture and business – are deep and longstanding and they will always endure.”

Sturgeon, like most UK politicians, was strongly critical of the way Trump ran his campaign and had publicly hinted her support of Democratic candidate Clinton. In her address this morning Sturgeon said:

“It is normal in any election for those on the losing side to be feel disappointment, but today, many in America and across the world, will also feel a real sense of anxiety. I hope the president-elect will take the opportunity to reach out to those who felt marginalized by his campaign and make clear – in deeds as well as words – that he will be a president for everyone in modern, multicultural America.

“Today must also be a moment for those who share progressive values – all of us who believe in tolerance and diversity – to speak up loudly and clearly for the values we hold dear.

“I also want to pay tribute to Hillary Clinton. While I am personally disappointed that she will not be America’s first woman president, her candidacy represented a major step forward for women in America and across the world – for that, as well as for her many years of public service, she is owed a deep debt of gratitude.”

Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, congratulated Trump a little more enthusiastically. In her statement this morning, the PM said:

“I would like to congratulate Donald Trump on being elected the next President of the United States, following a hard-fought campaign.

“Britain and the United States have an enduring and special relationship based on the values of freedom, democracy and enterprise.

“We are, and will remain, strong and close partners on trade, security and defence.

“I look forward to working with President-elect Donald Trump, building on these ties to ensure the security and prosperity of our nations in the years ahead.”

Can you imagine six impossible things before breakfast? Try these words -Donald/Trump/In/The/White/House.

Perhaps Anthony Neilson’s ingenious take on Lewis Carroll’s timeless psycho-charade of childhood fantastical philosophical conundrums might explain it.

The impossible becomes incredible. With Nick Powell’s melodious curious and curiouser circumlulatory musical machinations adding atmospheric gaslit anthems to the Lyceum’s glorious Victorian setting you would be mad as a hatter not to be there to share a smile with the Cheshire cat.

Remember what the dormouse said – ‘Feed your head.’ Otherwise, The Queen Of Hearts might chop it off!

Suitable for all ages from conception to cremation Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland has been the best loved of all children’s stories for over 150 years. This Christmas The Lyceum will bring Lewis Carroll’s serendipidous classic to life with a magical new production in a magnificent Victorian wonderland.

Don’t be late for this very important date!

Tickets here.

Police are releasing CCTV images of a man they wish to trace in connection with an attempted robbery, which took place inside a shop in the city centre.

The incident took place around at 10.15pm on Monday 31st October 2016 within City News, Cowgatehead in the Grassmarket area.  A 47 year old male was left uninjured but shaken following the incident.

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

Detective Constable Alison Wyllie from the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield Police Station said: “This was an intimidating incident, which left the victim shaken, and we are eager to bring the person responsible to justice.

“As part of this inquiry we are keen to identify the man pictured in the CCTV footage and he, or anyone who can assist us in identifying him should contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland the Rt Rev Dr Russell Barr has joined more than 250 international faith leaders to sign a joint statement.

This document is designed to encourage governments around the world to act urgently to fulfil the promises made in the Paris Agreement on climate change.

The faith leaders statement was delivered to the UN climate change conference in Marrakech, Morocco, which starts tomorrow Thursday 10 November.

The Scottish Government’s Minister for the Environment, Roseanna Cunningham  MSP, will make a statement on climate change on Thursday before going to Marrakech to attend the conference.

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Rt Rev Dr Russell Barr welcomed Mrs Cunningham’s work to meet Scotland’s ambitious climate change targets and said : “The Church of Scotland has heard the cries for help from churches around the world, from Africa, India, South America and the islands of the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans. Our partners there have told us of the damage and destruction climate change brings and they have called on us to respond and to change our lives.

“As Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland I call on world leaders meeting together at the CoP 22 Climate Conference in Marrakech to listen to these voices and commit to the actions set out in this statement.”

Other signatories to the statement include Archbishop Desmond Tutu;  Most Rev. David Chillingworth, Bishop of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane and Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church; and representatives from all the major world faiths.

The third annual national competition for 12-18 year-olds, Notes from Scotland, invites applications from the country’s budding composers.

As part of the National Trust’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s (RSNO) Notes From Scotland invites young composers to write a two-minute work for an instrumental trio, quartet or quintet.

The pieces will be inspired by a particular historical site. Options include: Culzean Castle, Ayrshire; Glencoe, Highlands; Hill House, Argyll and Bute; Newhailes, Edinburgh and House of Dun, Angus.

The closing date for entries is in May 2017. Five will be selected to be performed by an RSNO ensemble at the Orchestra’s New Auditorium in Glasgow. Last year, James Nicolson’s work White Oasis, inspired by the architecture of the recently-restored Pier Arts Centre, was chosen as the winning entry.

Composer Jennifer Martin will hold free workshops for entrants, including tours of the National Trust sites in question. Entrants will then be given an introductory guide to composing.

But entrants do not have the attend the workshops, since the National Trust website includes video resources featuring introductions to each of the Trust properties across Scotland along with advice from some of the country’s greatest living composers.

Composer Jennifer Martin said : ”I’ve been delighted to have been part of the RSNO’s Notes From Scotland initiative from the beginning. As a judge in the first two competitions, I’m now looking forward to helping inspire another generation of young composers through this workshop series.”

”What better inspiration for a new piece of music than the properties and landscapes managed by the National Trust for Scotland.”

Rhiannon Naismith, Property Manager (Newhailes) for the National Trust for Scotland: “Like many of the National Trust for Scotland’s places, Newhailes was a focus of inspiration and creative engagement over the years. We hope that the next generation of composers find their creativity is unlocked by the heritage in our care and can’t wait to hear their compositions.”

For more information visit the competition website, www.notesfromscotland.co.uk or contact the RSNO’s Learning and Engagement team on 0141 225 3557 or email engage@rsno.org.uk

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious road traffic collision on the A71 which took place west of the junction with Dalmahoy Road around 1.30pm yesterday.

A Renault flatbed truck, travelling westbound, collided with a grey Renault Clio that was travelling eastbound.

The truck has then collided head-on with a grey Volvo XC60, which has also been travelling eastbound.

The 56-year-old male driver of the truck was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with minor injuries.

The 87-year-old driver of the Renault Clio and his 85-year-old female passenger were also taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The 70-year-old driver of the Volvo and his 70-year-old female passenger were taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The road was closed until approximately 11.30pm while investigations were conducted at the scene.

Sgt Kos Papakyriakou of Edinburgh’s Road Policing Unit said: “Those travelling in the Volvo were seriously injured however, thankfully, their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

“As part of our enquiries we’d urge anyone who witnessed this collision, and who has not yet spoken to officers, to get in touch with us.

“We’d also ask anyone who may have seen any of the vehicles beforehand, or has information which may be able to help, to come forward.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.

Having practised at Drummond Community School for over 25 years, Still Point Aikido extends a welcome to anyone who would like to take on a challenging but rewarding activity.

Aikido is a martial art, which does not rely on strength and may be of interest to tai chi and yoga practitioners, but no previous experience is required.

It would be easy for us to talk about how we practice and have developed our practice over this time. However we had asked two of our newer member to share their experience of practising with Still point aikido

“I heard about Still Point Aikido because of an interest in Zen meditation and what I discovered has been a martial arts practice, which is enormously fulfilling.

I have been practicing for nearly two years and every session is challenging, rewarding and always new. I was lucky to find this small but dedicated group with a unique blend of precise thoughtful practice and mischievous playfulness.

When you get aikido right, it feels like you have been tricked: your attacker all of a sudden is lying on the ground and you don’t feel like you have done anything.  If you like spinning, rolling and getting your arms twisted, and you are interested in exploring the subtleties of human interaction and the psychology of attack, this is the class for you!”

“From the first session, I knew I had found the right group – the instructors have deep knowledge and the group is friendly. While I am a rather small-sized Asian lady, I have learnt that this can be an advantage in aikido, and have been shown how to use it. “

If you are interested in joining or trying out our practice please get in contact.

We practise at Drummond Community High School (41 Bellevue Place Edinburgh, which is just down from Broughton Street) on a Monday and Thursday 7pm to 9pm and just ask the jannie where to find Dance studio.

james@stillpointaikido.co.uk

http://www.stillpointaikido.co.uk

A pioneering new form of robotics-assisted surgery for men with prostate cancer was announced by the Health Secretary Shona Robison today at Edinburgh’s Western General Hospital.

The technology involved tiny remote-controlled robots deployed by surgeons during keyhole surgery. It has been successfully trialled on fifty patients since July and is now aimed at treating 180 men from the south east of Scotland each year.

The new £1.4m service is part funded by The Scottish Government, Prostate Scotland and various health boards across the region.

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport said: “Robotically assisted prostate cancer surgery is a vitally important service for men as it has been shown to shorten the length of stay and period needed to recover following treatment. This enables men to go back to life as normal as soon as possible.

“This is why the Scottish Government provided £3 million pounds of funding for the purchase of robots in the north, west and, now, south east of Scotland. The launch of this service reflects the aims and ambitions of our cancer strategy, which include seeing a reduction in cancer health inequalities, an improvement in experience and quality of life and ensuring there is more equitable access to services and treatment.

“I very much look forward to when this service is fully up and running, improving the lives of all men with prostate cancer in Scotland.”

Robert Wilson, Chair, Prostate Scotland, said: “Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Scotland. It is therefore great news that now men in the East and South of Scotland have access to robot assisted surgery for prostate cancer.

“Prostate Scotland welcomes this significant step forward in treatment options. We are very pleased to have been able, through our Blue Horizon Robot Appeal, to have reached our target of raising £2.8m to support robotically-assisted prostate cancer surgery in the east and west of Scotland, including towards the purchase of the robot for the service in the east and south of Scotland.

“Sincere thanks to all our supporters and donors without whom this could not have been achieved. Together with our partners the Scottish Government and the health boards we have enabled men in Scotland to have access to the most up-to-date surgery for prostate cancer.”

Photos www.scottishphotographer.com
sandyyoungphotography@gmail.com
07970 268 944

These awards designed by Alasdair Thomson are made from the dolerite rock of Salisbury Crags, which is the first time the rock has been used in a sculpture.

This year’s winners will be announced tomorrow evening 10 November 2016 at Creative Edinburgh’s Birthday Bash at Central Hall.

These highlight great ideas and creativity across all platforms and sectors in Edinburgh. The shortlist this year included 27 artists, producers, design agencies, illustrators and new talent.

Tomorrow’s event will be the highlight in the city’s creative calendar and Creative Edinburgh have collaborated with Nothing Ever Happens Here to curate the music. Sponsors include FreeAgent, Administrate, CodeClan,CodeBase and Black Box.

18.00 – 23.30, Thursday 10 November 

Venue: Central Hall, 2 West Tollcross, Edinburgh, EH3 9BP

available to book online here

Photos by Neil Hanna Photography
www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
07702 246823

Police are appealing for information after a teenage girl was indecently assaulted in Stenhouse Crescent on Monday evening.

The 14-year-old was walking with a friend at around 7.35pm on Monday, 7th November, when they were approached from behind by a man. He assaulted one of the girls before running back along Stenhouse Crescent towards Stenhouse Gardens.

The man is described as possibly in his 30s, between 5 foot 8 and 5 foot 10 inches tall, of slim to medium build and was wearing all black clothing including shoes, trousers, a hooded top and a woollen hat.

Detective Inspector Kevin Harkins based at Fettes Police Station said: “The girls were understandably distressed by this incident and immediately after they walked onto Calder Road where they spoke to a woman waiting at a bus stop with two young children aged around 5 and 7. We are yet to speak to this woman and so I’m appealing for her to come forward and speak to us.

“I also want to speak to anyone who may have seen the man in the area before or after the assault, he was on foot and may have been running Stenhouse Crescent or the surrounding streets.

“This type of incident is unusual, and officers will be carrying out door to door enquiries as well as high visibility patrols. I would encourage anyone with information to speak to an officer or call police on 101.”

Calls can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The organisers of the fourth annual Scot:Lands festival, a free pop-up multi-arts festival hosted on New Year’s day, announced their full programme earlier today.

The festival is part of the three day Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival and includes artists and arts organisations from all around Scotland in nine venues throughout Edinburgh’s Old Town.

The programme this year includes a celebration of the 900th anniversary of the St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, a preview of the 2017 Wigtown Book Festival and contemporary interpretations of the works of Scottish bards Sorley MacLean and Robert Tannahill.

It’s only November but now is a good time to get yourself a free pass to Scot:Lands on 1 Jan 2017 We spoke to @FionaHyslop + Pete Irvine pic.twitter.com/6st4excxEf

— Edinburgh Reporter (@EdinReporter) November 9, 2016

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

Each of the nine Old Town venues will have a title and a theme of some kind and the exact location for each has not yet been revealed. As with previous years, visitors to the festival must spin a roulette wheel in order to receive a landing card with directions from one event to another.

Titles for the upcoming festival venues include “Nether:Land”,”This:Land”, “Mountain Thyme:Land”, “Sorley:Land”, “New Scots:Land”, “Wigtown:Land”, “Orcadia:Land”, “High:Land” and a special venue for younger children called “Sprogmanay”

Unique Events, who organise Scot:Lands as well as Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, received funding from the Scottish Government in order to put on the one day arts festival.

The Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop MSP told The Edinburgh Reporter that the government was pleased to be involved with the event: “The Scottish Government has always wanted to see big celebrations, not just on Hogmanay, but on the 1st of January as well.

“That is why we have provided £200,000 as part of the Scottish Government Expo Fund to help fund Scot:Lands.

“Scot:Lands is the celebration of Scottish culture that takes place in nine different venues. It’s a surprise where people might end up and what they might see. It’s a real exploration of the different types of culture we have in Scotland but also from different places.

“From Orcadialand 900 years of St Magnus Cathedral and the recognition of that but also new Scot:Lands.

“So we have dance – we have Dance Ihayami here with us today for example. And we want to celebrate all the contributions of those who have chosen to live in Scotland and to explore the different cultures that they are bringing to Scotland.

“There’s also Let’s Dance which will be an amazing dance festival and we are involving NeuReekie! and Wigtown:Land involving books from Wigtown and also some of the music and celebration there so if you want to delve into Scottish culture, if you want to have a lovely wander round this wonderful Old Town of Edinburgh and celebrate Scotland in style and in a family friendly way then Scot:Lands on the first of January is where you need to be.”

Unique Events are the official organisers behind the day’s event. For the company, Pete Irvine told us: “Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has always had a programme on New Year’s Day which addresses the fact that there are so many people. Every hotel, B&B etc is full. Loads of people are out and want to do something and we’ve always thought it was good they did something rather different from the night before, something more reflective, something perhaps more directly cultural .

“We’ve had all kinds of things on New Year’s Day through the years, but for the last four years – this is the fourth year of Scot:Lands it means that we bring artistes from all over Scotland to the capital in ways you would never see them before or again. It’s like a pop-up festival within a festival.

“We have nine lands this year. We always try to find interesting buildings and rooms and this year we have the most interesting set of architectural and design kind of areas and spaces than we have ever had before.

“There’s about five new venues and quite a lot of the venues which people never go into. So it will be a discovery in terms of the space. A lot of the spaces you are going to walk in and think Wow! This is one of them here but we won’t say what is on here because we don’t do that. You only find out when you have spun the compass which is like a giant roulette wheel and you’re given a Landing card. That’s the first time you know where you are going and what you’re going to see. We list in all the pre-publicity the various lands and who you can expect to see but you don’t know exactly what you’re going to get. What you do get is loads of music, both traditional hokey and contemporary. There’s a lot of film this year, a lot of projection stuff, dance and spoken word, and a whole melange of different things put together for one afternoon only.

It’s deliberately and emphatically all free. You need to register, you need to get a ticket, but once you’re on that journey it’s yours.”

Visitors to the upcoming Scot:Lands festival have a choice of family-friendly venues to explore.

At Nether:Land visitors can expect to find an eclectic mix of spoken-word and songs presented by TRACS and Flint & Pitch.

At This:Land archive film curator Shona Thomson shines a light on Scotland’s celluloid past, exploring our national film collections, revealing dramatic land and seascape, forgotten streets and inspiring life stories, accompanied by live music scores including the beatboxing of Jason Singh.

Mountain Thyme:Land offers a celebration of Scotland’s ‘secret bard’ Robert Tannahill with music and poetry from Eddi Reader, James Grant and the Tannahill Weavers and Tannahill Singers while, orchestrated by Neu! Reeky!.

Sorley:Land welcomes an array of the hippest, brightest talents who pay a very modern homage to the great Scottish makar Sorley MacLean.

The Scottish SPCA is caring for a Shrew who was found orphaned in Gifford alongside his brother.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity picked up the pair last Wednesday (02 November) although sadly one later died.

The 16 day old male shrew is being hand reared at the charity’s national wildlife centre in Fishcross, where he has been nicknamed Hugh.

Centre manager Colin Seddon said, “One of our staff members, Nicola Turnbull, has been rearing Hugh since he came in.

“This is a very difficult task and takes a high degree of dedication but she has been doing an amazing job.

“He needs fed every two hours during the day and every three during the night.

“The young shrew has only just opened his eyes and is now starting to feed himself on mealworms.

“Within the next ten days he should be totally independent and he will be able to be released into the wild.”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

Photo by Scottish SPCA

Police are renewing their appeal for information to help trace  23-year-old Ashley Forster who was last seen in the Gardner’s Crescent area around 1.10am on Friday 4 November.

She is believed to have been in The Jewel area of Craigmillar around 4.30pm on Saturday 5 November.

She is described as white, 5ft 2ins tall, slightly built, with straight shoulder-length dark-blonde hair and a fringe.

She is believed to be wearing black-rimmed glasses, a black Parka-type jacket, blue jeans and beige Ugg boots.

Ashley has a North-East English accent and is known to frequent the city centre area.

Sgt Chris Scott of Wester Hailes said: “We remain concerned for Ashley’s welfare and are continuing to conduct enquiries to try and trace her safe and well.

“I’d ask anyone who may have seen Ashley, or has information about her current whereabouts, to get in touch.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.

Scotland go down fighting at Glasgow Green

It was disappointment for Scotland women in Glasgow as Ireland came from behind to score a dramatic late winner and secure a 2-1 win.

Heather Lang sent Scotland into the lead 14 minutes into the second half, however Elena Tice equalised for Ireland with five minutes remaining, and Jessica McMaster made it 2-1 with just half a minute to go.

The first half was a subdued affair, with neither side creating too many clear-cut chances. Ireland arguably had the better of the half, and looked threatening from a couple of penalty corners.

Rebecca Condie came closest for Scotland in the first half, forcing the Ireland goalkeeper into action. The hosts were let off, however, when Ireland’s Emma Russell failed to connect with a cross which would have almost certainly sent the visitors into the lead.

The second half saw more action, with Ireland’s Chloe Brown finding herself through on goal shortly after the game was restarted. The ball was cleared, but the away side threatened again as a deflected effort forced Scotland’s goalkeeper into making a save.

While Ireland had looked dangerous, it was the hosts who were able to find an opening goal, courtesy of a cross from Mairi Drummond which eventually found its way to goal scorer Lang.

It appeared as if Scotland would be able to secure a win, however a pass out from defence which was intercepted in midfield led to a penalty corner for Ireland. An impressive exchange of play between Ireland’s Elena Tice and Chloe Brown resulted in Tice levelling the score.

The goal buoyed the away side, and they pressed for a winner in the final few minutes of the game. Jessica McMaster threatened with a minute remaining, her effort just going wide. It appeared as if the game would end even, yet McMaster found herself in a dangerous position once again and was able to seal a win for Ireland with the last action of the game.

Match report courtesy of Scottish Hockey

Images from the match will appear here over the next few days

The Sir William Y Darling Bequest for Good Citizenship for 2015/16 has been awarded to Tracy Rendall in recognition for her charity work and volunteering.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Donald Wilson made the presentation this evening during a reception held in the City Chambers.

The Award, which is made annually to a citizen or citizens who, in the opinion of the City of Edinburgh Council, “has or have done most for the City’s Honour and Welfare”, was instituted by the will of the late Sir William Y Darling, Lord Provost of Edinburgh from 1941–1944.

In being nominated, Mrs Rendall was praised for her dedication to raising awareness of spina bifida and juvenile arthritis – disabilities which affect two of her four children – through the Scottish Network for Arthritis in Children (SNAC) and Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBHS).

Commenting on the award, the Lord Provost Donald Wilson said: “This is a well deserved recognition and it is truly inspiring how much valuable time Tracy has given to her community and to her causes.

“She has been described as ‘a phenomenon’ for dedicating so much to others in Edinburgh while raising four children and running her own business. The bequest is presented with gratitude and pride for what she has done for the citizens of the city.”

Of her award, Tracy Rendall said: “I am delighted to be recognised with the Sir William Y Darling Bequest for Good Citizenship. I don’t feel that I am the one that should be receiving it though.

“There are so many people that help me every day – I wouldn’t be involved in a fraction of the things that I am without the support of many, many wonderful people. Not least my husband, children and friends. I want to thank everyone for their support. This award is for all of us. ”

A business owner with her husband Stuart, Mrs Rendall dedicates hours of her time towards chairing the Craigentinny Primary School parent council. She was also chair of the family council for the Sick Kids Hospital and can often be found volunteering for the Sick Kids Friends Foundation and raising funds as PJ Bear.

Councillor Gavin Corbett, who nominated Tracy for the award, added: “I first met Tracy in 2008, on a training course for chairs of parent councils, and met her regularly after that at various events where she represented her school. Only gradually did I find out just how much of a whirlwind she is!

“Her tireless work supports her own family but also her own community and a whole network of children from across Edinburgh and Scotland. I cannot think of anyone who better deserves the recognition of this award.”

Tracy follows in the footsteps of LifeCare charity worker Stephen Seaman, who received the bequest last year.

A man has been jailed for 40 months after assaulting and robbing a woman in Edinburgh city centre in July.

Brian Auchterlonie attacked the woman in her 30s on the pass between Rutland Square and Festival Square on the evening of Tuesday 12th July, she suffered facial injuries and her purse was stolen.

Following extensive enquiries by the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield Police Station, including a CCTV media appeal, 27-year-old Auchterlonie was arrested and charged.

Detective Constable Alison Wyllie said: “I am very grateful for the public response to the media appeal. As a result of this appeal we received information that ultimately led to his arrest and conviction.

“Details provided to the police or Crimestoppers can often be vital in our investigations and I would urge anyone who may have any information about a crime to please call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Deidre Brock MP has said today that she welcomes the decision from developers behind the Granton Waterfront to retain the Granton Castle Walled Garden as a community green space and incorporate it into their plans for the area.

The medieval garden – once a hunting lodge for James IV – looked set to have 17 new townhouses built on it, before community groups stepped in and campaigned for it to be conserved. After meeting with the groups, council-owned EDI Group who own the site agreed to retain the site as a community market garden as well as a café and shop.

Deidre supported the campaign to save and regenerate the historic garden. Commenting on the decision, the Edinburgh North and Leith MP said:

“It’s great for Granton that the future of the historic walled garden looks more secure now. The walled garden has a fascinating history but has been a wasteland for too long. We still have to see the final shape of the plans, but credit goes to EDI for listening to the community and taking on board their concerns.

“Both the Friends of Granton Castle Walled Garden and the Granton Improvement Society came up with fantastic – albeit very different – visions for the use of this land. Now it looks as though there may be a way forward to retain the site and I hope everyone can work together to make sure the plans for the garden are as strong as they can be.”

“Granton needs new homes but it also needs to protect its social history and green spaces. We must all work to ensure this hidden gem of Granton is returned to its former glory for the whole community to enjoy.”

There were alternative plans for the garden which included a Garden Festival site and Lido. The Granton Improvement Society had put forward their proposals which now seem dashed.

Granton Improvement Society (GIS) told us that they received the decision today that the Directors of EDI had declined GIS’s plan for the International Garden Festival.

They went on to say that the whole project Granton on Sea had the aim of creating economic benefit through the creation of jobs, education, training and leisure and was designed to create an income to be distributed within an area blighted by deprivation for decades.

The project which has the support of hundreds of local people and beyond was to a provide a destination attractive to locals and tourists linking the City to the Waterfront.

A spokesman said: “EDI’s vague plans for the Waterfront would create only more dormitory housing without a destination or reason to use the Waterfront promenade that the council has been trying to create for the past 12 years without any success.

“GIS will pursue all avenues to overturn this dull and uninspired decision to decline the opportunity to have an International Graden Festival in a Festival City.

“EDI have no plans the create economic regeneration or sources of income for North Edinburgh through this decision beyond housing.”

Mark Brown has confirmed to The Edinburgh Reporter that he has been selected a Scottish Conservative Candidate for next year’s City of Edinburgh Council election in the DrumBrae / Gyle ward.

Well done Mark – we look forward to hearing from you about your campaign.

Have you been selected as a candidate in the upcoming elections? Well do tell us about it!

Dobbies Edinburgh want you to send them your best Christmas recipe and then they will make the recipe to sell in their cafe!

You could become Edinburgh’s Star Baker this Christmas.

If you are a keen baker you are asked to put your Great British Bake Off  knowledge to the test and submit your speciality Christmas recipe.

You can win the chance for a signature festive bake to be soldin Dobbies’ restaurant and a tasty afternoon tea for two.

From delicious truffles and mini Christmas puds to crumbly mince pies and festive tray bakes, all recipes submitted will be judged by Restaurant Manager, Kyra Ritchie.

The winning Christmas bake will be on sale from Friday 2^nd – Sunday 4^th December, with all proceeds donated to the garden centre’s national charity partner, Teenage Cancer Trust.

Kyra Ritchie said: “We’re giving locals the chance to show what they can do, whisking, folding and frosting their way into our restaurants and becoming Dobbies Edinburgh Star Baker. The first weekend in December is an incredibly busy time for us, particularly with the launch of our Christmas Afternoon Tea, so it’s an exciting chance to showcase your baking skills to our customers and see your recipe come to life.”

“As a judge, I’ll be looking for a Christmas recipe with an edge, something tasty but different, bonus points will also be given for those who give their bake a horticultural twist such as holly to decorate or a sage infused crumble– and of course, we want no soggy bottoms!”

To enter, send your Christmas recipe to mychristmasbake@dobbies.com.

Entries for the competition close on 14 November and winners will be announced the following week.

Full details on the competition can be found here.

If you switch on the television or radio or surf the internet at the moment you might be forgiven for thinking there are only three things happening in the world right now – the UK’s pending withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit which never seems to end); Christmas (even though November is still in single figures and the powers-that-be can’t even wait until after Remembrance Sunday before beginning to assemble the Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens) and the election across the pond which will determine who will be the next President of the United States of America.

At the risk of sounding like Simon Cowell, if I’m being honest with you, I’m thoroughly weary of all three – particularly the tedious daily spat between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump which is constantly on our television screens like some shockingly bad soap opera. 2016

ITV’s breakfast offering, Good Morning Britain – or Good Morning England as I prefer to call it, given the scant attention it pays to Scotland (or northern areas as they refer to us when they do give us a mention) – broadcast live from New York on Tuesday morning. Presenters Piers Morgan and Susannah Reid were positively drooling with anticipation about the pending US election. Clinton said this, Trump said that, blah, blah, blah. Numerous political analysts were dragged on to give their thoughts on what might happen. It was almost enough to send me back to bed. The BBC, at least, had more measured coverage but, in our household, Mrs Smith does prefer ITV of a morning so I had to wait until my beloved departed for work before grabbing the remote control (now I realise why this device is called the remote – it’s kept as far away from me as possible…)

Frankly, I couldn’t give a Trump who wins the election. But it does peeve me that our broadcasters deem such blanket coverage of a foreign election to be absolutely essential. I can’t recall Good Morning England Britain giving anywhere near the same attention to the Scottish Parliament elections in May or even the Independence Referendum in 2014.

In my humble opinion, it’s all part of the increasing Americanisation of this country. When said Mrs Smith and I go out for a meal we are invariably greeted with ‘Hi guys’ by staff. It was Halloween recently and, while I am aware of its Scottish origins, it has become a huge event in the good old US of A. And now this country, naturally, just has to follow suit and do what the Americans do and celebrate to extravagance.

The plethora of sports channels now show American Football, baseball and basketball on a regular basis. When bad weather strikes the States, you can be sure it’s headline news over here and our weather forecasters will begin their broadcast with a forecast of what is likely to happen across the pond.

Social media is also going into a frenzy as the polls open across the water. Twitter has the hashtag #Election2016 – they don’t even feel the need to say US election as they clearly feel it’s of crucial importance to all of us. Likewise, Facebook, although I was heartened to see that the changing of a size of a certain triangle-shaped bar of chocolate was higher up the ‘trending’ list than #Election2016.

You may have gathered, dear reader, that I shall not be staying up all night to watch the relentless television coverage of the election results on Tuesday night. I shall be in my scratcher alongside my ‘couldn’t care less attitude’ contemplating how I will try to avoid the inevitable hoo-ha on Wednesday morning. ITV4 will be showing a 1974 episode of the situation comedy Man About the House at 6.00am – I may try and persuade Mrs Smith to watch that instead.

Although if the result of the US election means it will be a Man About the White House, I may just go back to bed….

The views of this grumpy old man are not necessarily shared by The Edinburgh Reporter