A new journalism group was launched yesterday in Glasgow by the First Minister, the Rt Hon Nicola Sturgeon.

Women in Journalism Scotland is a networking organisation which will have campaigning and training events for women journalists at all levels. Following the packed out free launch event they have opened membership to all women journalists in Scotland who work in broadcast, the written media or in the new media. It is a sister organisation to Women in Journalism which holds monthly meetings in London and which was set up almost 25 years ago.

The common denominator among three of the women on the panel last night is that the First Minister, Tricia Nelson a partner in accountancy firm EY (our hosts for the evening)  and Shelley Jofre from the BBC all attended the same school in Ayrshire. (‘the Eton of Ayrshire’). To much laughter the First Minister explained that in fact the other two were in the year above her at school!

Three @Greenwood_Acad former pupils get together to promote women in Scottish journalism. Fabulous night! @wij_scotland pic.twitter.com/czpF4CeqTb

— Shelley Jofre (@ShelleyJofre) November 4, 2016

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Using that network of ‘people you know’ the launch party was held in EY’s city centre offices and the guest of honour was The First Minister.There was yet another link between them in that the young Nicola became a member of the SNP when she helped Shelley’s mum campaign in Ayrshire. All of these links, and the fact that they are all, rather obviously, women, brought them together last night.

The women in attendance came from all walks of journalism, at all stages and the buzz in the air was tangible, and went on long after the expected 9.00pm finish.

Shelley explained that she has had a 25 year career in journalism during which she has experienced sexism, faced redundancy and fairly recently found out that she was being paid less than men doing a similar job. She explained part of the reason for backing the new group: “I  want to know what we can all do together to change the situation that some women find themselves in. We are bowled over by the response, We did not expect it. We even had a waiting list for tickets for tonight. “

The First Minister said that she finds there is still a minority of women political journalists in Scotland. She explained that looking at the press benches during FMQs the overwhelming majority seated there is made up of men. She said: “The relationship between politics and journalism is thus dominated by white middle-aged men which has an impact on how women in politics are reported.

“One example I have been using recently is when Theresa May came to Bute House to see me after she had been declared Prime Minister. It was an important event and photo opportunity.

“The first version of that photo I saw on social media after the meeting was a photo of both of us from the knees down. So it was a photo of our shoes. I don’t really think that the first thing that should be said about such an important meeting is about our shoes, but don’t get me wrong – I really like shoes!

“But these things are all interlinked. It is about all women from all walks of life helping each other. I do try to use my experience to help other women and I think it is incumbent on us to reach out to other women in our professions.”

She explained that while she is in favour of positive discrimination, she hopes that it will be a temporary thing and that gender balance will be corrected in time. But she also explained that anyone appointed still has to be given a position based on merit too. Having appointed the 50:50 Cabinet just after her appointment as First Minister, her judgement was questioned by people asking how she knew that the women would be up to the job. Not one however asked about the men.

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The First Minister speaking at the launch event for Women in Journalism from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Fiona Davidson is joint secretary of the NUJ in Scotland and as part of the panel she explained that the challenges facing women journalists make up a long list, but include matters such as equal pay, discrimination of various kinds. She also gave specific mention to  freelancers who can feel isolated and their work situation which is a precarious one.

Tricia Nelson was the third member of the panel. Tricia is a partner in accountancy firm EY who kindly hosted the evening. EY mentor and help women who work in their organisation to find better ways of working, for example after maternity leave. She is no stranger to journalism herself, having been a part of Harpies and Quines along with Lesley Riddoch in the early nineties, but she particulary wanted to be in at the beginning of Women in Journalism Scotland as she explained to The Edinburgh Reporter that she knows from her own business how important such ‘networking’ organisations are.

Membership is now open. Anyone who wants to know more can contact the organisation through Twitter here or the Women in Journalism website.

It seems no time at all since the Smoke Stack set up shop in Broughton Street, but we are astonished to know the restaurant has been there for twenty years!

To celebrate they are running a competition to win eight tickets to Wonderland at The Playhouse along with cocktails and dinner before the show at the Smoke Stack.

To enter the competition you need to click on the Smoke Stack’s Facebook page, but also tweet to them using the hashtag #meinthe90s before 13 November.

And if you don’t win the competition then you can get a 20% discount on bookings made through Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or through its website.

Police have confirmed that 25-year-old Laura Dutton was traced safe and well in North Berwick at around 9 p.m. last night.

She had been seen boarding a number 11 bus in Morningside Road around 2.15pm. yesterday.

Officers wish to thank the public for their assistance during this inquiry.

Edinburgh based string band Southern Tenant Folk Union are back in the capital on 23rd November at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, 8pm (Tickets £12)

September 2016 witnessed the release of the seventh Southern Tenant Folk Union album Join Forces. It was written following the May 2015 general election result, and then recorded in June and July this year amidst a quickly changing political landscape, something that has made the suite of songs seem timelier still. The band will be touring to support the release throughout the remainder of 2016 and into Spring 2017.

Musically the album harks back to the more roots and bluegrass sounding earlier albums and is divided into two main strands. Firstly there are some tracks which have a much poppier and melodic approach than in the past. Songs such as the dynamic opener To The War, the frantic Arthur Lee & Love influenced The Media Attack, Rory Butler’s Carefully Does It and the title track Join Forces. Then, secondly, several songs deliberately take in more old-time bluegrass chord sequences and sounds. Tracks like Ash, a metaphor for political progress meeting the sci-fi eco movie Silent Running, and the uptempo bluegrass lament that is Our Revolution It Will One Day Come which concerns the slow nature of change. Plain Stanley Brothers style A cappella harmony vocals start off My Grandfather’s Father before mixing in folk fiddle & percussion breakdowns and then there’s the anthemic What Would You Give For A Leader With Soul?, to be released as a single on Sept 2^nd 2016.

Their previous album, the acclaimed and politically themed The Chuck Norris Project, was a diverse mix of classical, soundtrack, folk and jazz influences so it feels natural for a more straightforward album to follow it. The songs themselves mostly came together in the days immediately following the conservative party’s general election victory and were initially rough sketches of protest and pain at the thought of the five years ahead. And while written in the wake of that election result and the accompanying Labour party leadership election it now comes as an interesting coincidence that in 2016 as the new tracks were being recorded and worked on in June & July there was again turmoil in politics with the vote to leave the EU bringing us a new Prime Minister and yet another Labour leadership contest.

Whilst it does look back to an earlier Americana and old-time sound the whole thing is still subtly different to anything the band has recorded before. Containing three ‘question songs’ in the Pete Seeger/Phil Ochs style, the first of these is the single What Would You Give For A Leader With Soul? about the hope of better leadership, that growing pent up desire for higher standards in politics and political leaders, the same desire that has seen the grass roots popularity of Jeremy Corbyn here in the UK and Bernie Sanders in the USA. Secondly comes the professional politician on the campaign trail and their sincerity with Were You Faking When You Kissed Her? The third ‘question’ track is the country rock era Byrds-flavoured What Kind Of Worker Do You Want To Be? and looks to mix the politics of unionising and solidarity with campfire song folk.

Returning to the album title, it was the vote to leave the EU that eventually decided what it should be. And Join Forces itself is a big pop bluegrass groover featuring call and response backing vocals and lyrically is about the idea of people from the same country, town or street on opposite sides of a futile military conflict. The title’s double meaning itself being an invitation to create a more hopeful future.

Lead singer and guitarist Rory Butler pens two tracks for the record, firstly the opening cut To The War reflecting on the frustration of us all being complicit in war abroad and in despair at the ‘war’ on those least fortunate in our society. The second track, Carefully Does It, brings a 70’s pop almost Jimmy Webb styled sensibility to the album powerfully utilising the big band acoustic sound of Southern Tenant Folk Union.

A strong flavour of Scottish folk also runs across the whole record with the exciting and daring fiddle playing of Katherine Stewart intertwined throughout. Plus Katherine and percussionist Steve Fivey specially wrote the Islay Crossing Set which features three original tunes – of sometimes fiendish complexity, dynamic rhythmic impact and stark beauty – that demonstrate the link between folk and bluegrass and their relation and common currency over time.

Once again recording and mixing, on his fifth consecutive album with the band, is Tim Matthew. Even though he now lives in Shetland he was miraculously free for four days between two stints of Lau touring (he is their long time live sound engineer). His relaxed manner, skill at getting good performances and his expertise in microphones, recording and all the technical aspects made the album another successful and enjoyable experience. Stylised album artwork with a striking black and red colour theme comes from double bass player Craig Macfadyen and also for the first time there’s a live in the studio video, Rory’s song To The War filmed and edited by Sandy Butler.

Finally, the nature of the political protest music that inspired these songs stretches back, long before Woody Guthrie, back before Alan Lomax finally captured the ancient lyrics of hope and despair in a recorded form. It is the history of the struggle for rights and the battles whether they were won or lost. And that story still continues with this album, amongst the many other folk albums of conscience being released, and Southern Tenant Folk Union doing the little they can, contributing in some small way to the debate about progress.

Police are seeking the assistance of the public to help trace a 25-year-old woman reported missing.

Laura Dutton was last seen on Morningside Road at around 2:15pm on Thursday, November 3rd, boarding a number 11 bus outside Marks & Spencer heading northbound.

It is believed Laura may be attempting to travel to the Portobello area and police are keen to trace her as quickly as possible.

Laura is from Warrington and is unfamiliar with Edinburgh having arrived in the city on Thursday, October 27th. She is described as around 5ft 4ins tall with brown/red long hair, medium build and has an English accent.

She was last seen wearing a green Parka, black leggings and dark ankle boots.

Inspector Scott Trevis who is based at Howdenhall said: “From our initial inquiries we believe Laura intends to travel to Portobello however she is unfamiliar with the city and may have asked for directions from members of the public.

“We urge anyone who has spoken to her since around 2:15pm on Thursday to contact police immediately.

“Likewise, we want to speak to anyone who remembers Laura on the number 11 bus service on Thursday afternoon.”

If you have seen Laura or have information on her whereabouts please call Police Scotland on 101 or speak to any officer.

Lou Lou’s Vintage Fair, winner of Best Vintage Fair in the UK three years running, will return to Edinburgh on Sunday 13th November.

The fair brings together over 40 of the best vintage traders from across the UK, with an eclectic range of clothing, homeware and accessories from the 1920s-80s.

”We always enjoy holding our fairs in Edinburgh and we’re delighted to return for this Autumn special,” says founder and organiser Lou Lou Glover.

”Whatever you’re looking for, the event promises to be a one-stop shop to get a variety of vintage gems that are on the market at the time.”

There will be a  beauty salon provided by Lipstick, Lashes and Locks, where shoppers will have the opportunity to be transformed into their favourite vintage icons.

Live entertainment will come in the form of The Vedettes, who will entertain shoppers with vintage-inspired dances.

The event will be held in the Assembly Rooms from 10am-4pm. Tickets are £2 for adults. Children under 12 visit free.

For more information, visit the website.

Photo courtesy of Lou Lou’s

Two people have been arrested and charged following a day of action to tackle organised crime in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

On Thursday 3rd November, detectives from the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit were supported by local officers to carry out searches at homes in Castlepark Gait and Dinmont Drive, Edinburgh and Edmonstone Road, Danderhall.

During the search of the Castlepark Gait address, 28g of heroin were recovered along with the same quantity of cannabis and around 200 white tablets that have been sent for analysis.

The total value of the heroin and cannabis is around £3,000.

In addition, police also removed around £10,000 from the house and seized a pit bull puppy under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

A 31-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman were charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act with the male also being charged with a warrant offence.

Both are scheduled to appear in court on Friday 4th November.

Within the property in Dinmont Drive a number of pills were recovered and have been sent for analysis, while £3,000 in cash was seized from the Danderhall address.

The purpose of Thursday’s activity was to disrupt the ongoing criminal activities of a crime group operating within the South of Edinburgh and Midlothian area.

Detective Inspector Graeme Naysmith from the East OCCTU said: “Thanks to vital intelligence from our communities and the invaluable support of local resources from Edinburgh and Midlothian we were able to carry out a significant disruption operation aimed at putting a dent in the cash flow of a crime group operating within these areas.

“A large sum of cash, various drugs and other items of interest were seized from the three properties targeted and this will undoubtedly assist us with future inquiries into individuals linked to this group.

“Tackling organised crime is a priority for Police Scotland and the public can help us bring those involved in these offences to justice by come forward with information, either by calling us on 101, or by making an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

David Gaffney from Charlotte Street Partners tells us about his hopes for the city in 2050 and beyond…

I consider myself one of Edinburgh’s biggest fans. Born and raised here, I’ve barely experienced life anywhere else, if you discount four hazy years spent at university in Stirling and very occasional foreign holidays.

I used to find it embarrassing when I’d meet well-travelled citizens of the world passing through our great city, and they’d ask me if I’d always lived here.

“Yes”, I’d admit, suddenly self-conscious about how insular and parochial that made me. “But it’s a brilliant place to live…” I’d add defensively, to justify my narrow horizons, “….and, well, it’s home.”

And what a home. The history, the architecture, the vibrancy, the quality of life, and just the sheer aesthetic beauty of the place – that exhilarating combination of hills, rooftops, and sea in one vista.

Edinburgh does so much so well that it feels churlish to criticise and demand more. But, as in sport and business, successful teams only remain at the peak of their powers through constant self-improvement. So it’s refreshing that Edinburgh Council is casting a critical eye over the city as part of a concerted effort to make Auld Reekie the best it can be, not only now, or in the next 10 years, but in 2050 and beyond.

At the launch of Edinburgh’s City Vision last month, we were challenged to tweet about what we thought our city should aspire to in 2050. I wrote:

I’d like a clean, ambitious, healthy, fair, and multicultural Edinburgh with the best state schools in the UK. Easy, eh?

One hundred and forty spontaneous characters will never be enough to describe what an ambitious capital city should be, so I’ll try to expand slightly here.

Clean, because I walked up Castle Street yesterday and it was strewn with litter. Wrappers, bags, takeaway cups, fag ends, the whole shebang. Anything that wasn’t stuck to the pavement (and there was plenty of that) was flapping at my ankles. On a sunny autumnal afternoon, on a street boasting one of our city’s defining views, it made me wonder: where is our civic pride?

Multicultural and fair, because Edinburgh’s heritage as a melting pot for a range of cultures and nationalities is something worth celebrating and preserving, particularly in a post-Brexit era where fear of difference is being exploited by xenophobic politicians to drive us apart. Diversity is a strength and an opportunity.

Healthy, because health equals happiness and what more can we aspire to than that? Healthy also means less pressure on the NHS, a more effective, efficient workforce and a more productive economy.

I visited Copenhagen recently and, as someone who cycles daily through Edinburgh, often in abject terror, the Danish capital was a revelation. Copenhagen’s city-centre appears to have been designed for cyclists, by cyclists. Drivers wait patiently for bicycles to negotiate busy junctions, cars give generously of both space and time. Many roads are flanked by double pavements; one for pedestrians and another for cyclists. So more people ride their bikes, fewer people are overweight, and the traffic flows more fluently. Edinburgh has the opportunity to follow the lead of cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam in having a transformational attitude to encouraging cycling. We must.

Schools. Edinburgh is renowned for its many highly distinguished private schools. By 2050, I’d love it to be renowned for having the most highly distinguished state schools in Scotland, so all of our children’s children can benefit from a best-in-class educational experience in our capital city, not only the wealthy few.

Finally, I’d love to see a decent mid-sized sports stadium for Edinburgh Rugby (and others) to call home, and a decent mid-sized music venue to ensure we no longer play second fiddle to Glasgow when it comes to attracting the very best acts to Scotland.

Easy, eh?

You can have your say on what Edinburgh might look like in 2050 by clicking here. 

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Every year thousands of people celebrate Guy Fawkes night.  Fireworks are safe if used responsibly, but they can cause real misery if misused.

The week leading up to, and around, Bonfire Night regularly see an increase in calls to Police about anti-social behaviour with fireworks being misused and illegal bonfires being set.  This causes nuisance, damage and disruption to the local communities.

Station Manager Alex Hume said: “Managing fireworks issues in the community is about striking a balance between responsible enjoyment by the majority and irresponsible use by a minority. The misuse of fireworks can have a range of impacts on the community, and in the wrong hands fireworks can be damaging and dangerous.

“There are laws about when fireworks can be sold, and to who – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.

“It is an offence to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am (or after midnight on bonfire night), to modify, tamper with or misuse fireworks, to throw or set off fireworks in any highway, street, thoroughfare or public place and to sell fireworks to anyone under 18.”

Station Manager Alex Hume continued: “We would urge every member of the public who is thinking of holding their own bonfire or fireworks display to attend an organised event instead. These events are professionally organised, much more spectacular than a DIY display and most importantly it’s much safer for you, your family and your friends – we want you to have fun and stay safe.

“We want everyone to be able to celebrate on 5 November and have fun but in a safe way that doesn’t require the intervention of the emergency services.

“When our crews are called to attend bonfires it means we have to divert resources away from other emergencies and life-threatening calls – that could end tragically for anyone who truly needs our urgent help.

“We would encourage the public to report unsafe or dangerous bonfires or bonfire materials and any suspicions of deliberate fire setting. In doing this, we can keep our communities safer together.

“The public are requested to pass on any information about who may be responsible for fire setting to Police Scotland using the 101 non-emergency number or Scotland Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.”

Environmental Services will uplift material that has been put together for illegal bonfires in public places and housing estates. They will clear up material if people have acted irresponsibly by illegally dumping their rubbish which could be used for bonfires. Please report any dumped material to Environmental Services on Email: environmentalhealth@edinburgh.gov.uk Tel: 0131 529 3030

The Lord Provost of the city of Edinburgh, the Rt Hon Donald Wilson will be visiting Fife  next week to join the judging panel of the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards.

Now anyone who knows the Lord Provost will realise that during his term of office he has become a bit of a healthy living addict, with his marathon running, so we are not sure if he has had a pie in a while!

But next Wednesday 9 November 2016, he will join the the judging panel to decide which one is the best pie. Other products being judged include football pies, macaroni pies, steak pies and sausage rolls.

The Lord Provost will be accompanied by former footballer Simon Donnelly, Partick Thistle Managing Director Ian Maxwell and head judge Ian Nelson.

The judges will have to keep their decisions under their hats though until the winners are announced in January 2017!

Hundreds of vehicles have been stopped by police as part of a road policing operation carried out on the M90/A90 between Edinburgh and Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire.

The operation, involving multiple divisions of Police Scotland, along with the Scottish Camera Safety Partnership, was run from Friday, 28 October, to Monday, 31 October, 2016.

Officers patrolled the 176 mile stretch of road, attending a number of minor collisions and carrying out static checks at key locations, supported by the safety camera units.

Nearly 850 vehicles were either stopped by road policing officers or detected speeding by the safety camera unit.

Despite repeated messages regarding inappropriate speed being a factor in collisions, over 350 vehicles were found to be speeding.  A total of 28 drivers were stopped for careless driving, 9 drivers were not wearing their seatbelts and 16 were using mobile phones while driving.

In addition 23 vehicles were found to have no insurance with 12 being seized immediately. Most of the drivers with no insurance were issued with fixed penalties of 6 points on their licence and a £300 fine with the others being reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

In addition over 150 minor road traffic offences were detected, with 4 vehicles being prohibited from continuing their journeys.  The vast majority of these were vehicle defects such as lighting, tyre and other construction and use offences.

Officers carried out a number of searches of vehicles, recovering small quantities of drugs as well as seizing over £14,000 under the proceeds of crime legislation.

North East based Road Policing Sergeant Steve Manson, who led the operation, said: “We carried out a very similar operation at the start of this year and received positive feedback.  These dedicated patrols are intended to reduce road casualties by influencing driver and road user behaviour, as well as detecting and deterring criminality on our roads.  Road users will have noticed the increased presence on the road over the weekend and it will hopefully have made them think more about how they drive.

“The A90, particularly north of Dundee, has a poor collision history with numerous fatal collisions.  In the vast majority of these collisions, inappropriate speed or inattentiveness by drivers is a contributory factor.

“The figures demonstrate why we run these operations and why the road has a poor history of collisions.  Many of the drivers stopped were issued with fixed penalties of 3 points on their licence and a £100 fine with the more serious offences being reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

“Road policing officers and units will continue to work together carrying out similar operations to target specific areas or routes.”

Police have released CCTV images of two men they wish to trace in connection with a serious assault on another man in the city centre.

The incident took place around 3.30 a.m. on Sunday 18th September 2016 on George Street.

A 31-year-old man sustained various injuries to his face and body after being attacked in the street and police have been continuing with their enquiries to trace those responsible.

The men pictured are of interest to the investigation and anyone who recognises them is asked to come forward.

Detective Constable Alison Wyllie from the Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield Police Station said: “This was a violent attack, which left the victim with some painful injuries and we are eager to bring those responsible to justice.

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

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

This weekend spare a thought for the players who make up the City of Edinburgh Basketball Club teams as they have a very busy schedule with  nine home matches lined up! Their teams cover a wide age range though so it will not be the same players each time, but it makes for a busy basketball weekend.

All matches will be played at Holy Rood High School – against West Lothian Wolves, Dunfermline Region and Highland Bears.

Ahead of the busy weekend Club Chair, Amy Morgan said: “Nine games in a weekend is a great advert for our club, and we must thank Holy Rood High School for being so accommodating as we get ready to move into the new Portobello High School in the next few weeks.

“It shows the depth of our club and how we are continuing to grow and invest in our youth development programme with seven of these national league games being at under-age level, and that’s not to mention our Under 10, 12 and 14 teams taking part in the Regional Development Leagues this weekend, with the Under 14 teams getting the exciting opportunity to play at the new National Performance Centre.

“We look forward to welcoming lots of friends of the club over the weekend to what we hope will be a successful one.”

Weekend Fixtures:

• City of Edinburgh Kings Men D2 v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Friday 4th November @ 2000 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kool Kats Under 16 D2  v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Saturday 5th November @ 1100 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kool Kats Under U18  v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Saturday 5th November @ 1300 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kings Under 16 D1 v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Saturday 5th November @ 1500 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kings Under 18 D2 v Dunfermline Reign, Holy Rood High School, Saturday 5th November @ 1700 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kings Men D1 v Dunfermline Reign, Holy Rood High School, Saturday 5th November @ 1900 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kings Men D2 v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Sunday 6th November @ 1300 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kool Kats v Highland Bears, Holy Rood High School, Sunday 6th November @ 1500 hours.
• City of Edinburgh Kings U18 D2 v West Lothian Wolves, Holy Rood High School, Sunday 6th November @ 1700 hours.

Television presenter, radio broadcaster & DJ, Edith Bowman has joined forces with ScottishPower and Cancer Research UK to celebrate raising £10 million to help beat cancer sooner.

ScottishPower launched a three-year partnership with Cancer Research UK in 2012 with the aim of raising £5 million. Two years later it had smashed this fundraising goal and now, having extended its partnership last year, has reached a £10 million milestone in just four years.

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The vital funds have been generated through a wide-range of creative initiatives and events including sponsorship of the Race for Life, Shine and Stand Up To Cancer campaigns, sales of a bespoke ‘Help Beat Cancer’ energy tariff and everything  from bake-offs to bikeathons and its latest employee fundraising initiative – ScottishPower does Strictly.

To celebrate the collective power of the people who played their part in taking on cancer, ScottishPower has created and released a new short-film on its social channels today (Wednesday, 2 November). The clip, featuring Edith, brings to life the efforts undertaken by all to help reach ‘£10 Million Together’ so that one day all cancers will be cured.

The celebrations kicked-off with Edith at The Scoop at Tower Bridge yesterday and ScottishPower employee Susan Lemon – one of the stars of the film, who bravely fought breast cancer in 2015 – by spinning on a giant record to mark the film launch and the £10 million milestone.

Edith understands first-hand the devastating impact cancer can have after losing her young cousin, grandfather and grandmother and two uncles to the disease. Edith’s mum Eleanor was also diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 through a routine mammogram and is thankfully now cancer free. By joining forces with ScottishPower, Edith wants to highlight the important role that fundraising plays in helping to find kinder and better treatments.

Edith said: “The fact that one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer at one point in our lives is a shocking stat. But it’s a harsh reality and we all need to work together to ensure that more people survive. That’s why I’m supporting ScottishPower today and celebrating its incredible fundraising efforts. £10 million in four years is an outstanding achievement and everyone who has played a part should be extremely proud.  It means so much to me to be in the film and be part of an event that is celebrating a fundraising total that will ultimately help bring forward the day when all cancers are cured”.

Susan Lemon was given the shocking news that she had breast cancer in 2015 and had to swiftly undergo chemo and radio therapy.  It was a tough time and she wanted to shield her two young boys from worry so didn’t tell them about her treatment until it was complete. By featuring in the film and taking part in today’s event she wants to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped raise £10 million and to encourage others to fundraise for Cancer Research UK.

Susan Lemon said: “When you are told that you have cancer, time literally stands still. Your life completely changes and you start thinking the unthinkable. For me, having to face up to the fact that I might not be there to see my boys grow up was terrifying. I had a tough fight on my hands but luckily I came out the other side – so many don’t.  With ongoing fundraising and research, I believe that Cancer Research UK will discover new treatments and cures for cancer. I’m so proud of everyone at ScottishPower for being part of helping to make this happen and can’t thank them enough for all working together”.

Neil Clitheroe, ScottishPower Global Retail Director said “Everyone at ScottishPower has pulled together and worked hard to raise this phenomenal amount of money in record time. Our commitment to making a difference stretches beyond energy and raising £10 million in just four years is a huge part of this. Our customers and employees like Susan have shown amazing support for Cancer Research UK and their willingness to get involved in the fight against cancer has been inspiring.  It’s great to have Edith’s support and we’re committed to continuing to raise funds because together we have the energy to help beat cancer sooner.”

Frances Milner, Executive Director, Philanthropy & Partnerships, Cancer Research UK said: “£10 million is an incredible amount of money and we are so grateful to ScottishPower for their support. Our ambition at Cancer Research UK is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured and this will only be possible thanks to our supporters, as we receive no Government funding for our research. ScottishPower employees have thrown themselves heart and soul into fundraising for the charity and should feel immensely proud of this amazing achievement.”

Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading cancer charity dedicated to beating cancer through research. Millions of lives have been saved by discovering new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, and thanks to this progress survival rates have doubled over the past 40 years.

The City of Edinburgh Council has had to make inroads into its spending over the term of this administration with large cuts becoming necessary both because of decreasing budget and increasing calls on its funds.

Now with the help of E.ON’s energy efficiency specialists Matrix, they are upgrading seven schools, The Usher Hall and the City Chambers to ensure that these buildings are as energy efficient as possible. It is projected that this will lead to savings in spending of around £330,000 each year on energy bills while reducing carbon emissions by more than 1,500 tonnes per year.  

The city council already said that they want to reduce carbon emissions by over 40% in the city by 2020, following The Scottish Government’s lead. The funding has come through the Salix financing scheme which offers 0% financing on such capital projects.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Convenor of Transport and Environment Committee, said: “Energy efficiency is a key programme within our Sustainable Energy Action Plan that aims to reduce carbon emissions across the city.

“We are delighted to be able to partner with E.ON in the development of projects that will result in more energy efficient buildings delivering a number of benefits to the Council and its staff.  This will be part of an ongoing programme of work initially supported by the Scottish Government and we will look forward to taking future phases of energy retrofits through the Scottish Government’s new framework.”

Dave Lewis, Managing Director of Matrix, E.ON’s energy efficiency business, added: “Edinburgh is looking to significantly reduce its carbon emissions and energy costs by 2020.  The scope, scale and complexity of solutions we can offer customers will certainly help them on that journey, saving them on their energy and maintenance costs which can then be reinvested for the benefit of local residents. Our mission is to provide public sector and business customers with a wide range of innovative solutions that deliver real long term financial benefits.

“Being chosen as Edinburgh’s preferred partner is a sign of their confidence in our ability to develop the best solutions for them. We are already in discussions with the council about phase two of this project which we hope will see further significant carbon and financial savings achieved.”

The Rt Hon Donald Wilson, the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh is hosting a Burn’s Supper at Prestonfield House Hotel, Priestfield Road, on Thursday 26 January 2017, and you are invited!

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Tables of 10 are £1,000 or individual seats are priced at £100 per person. The price includes the champagne reception, three course dinner and a half bottle of wine per person.

There will also be a celebrity line up of guests, fantastic entertainment, silent and live auction along with a restaurant tree raffle, etc.

All funds are being raised for the Lord Provost’s Charity, the OneCity Trust which is the social inclusion charity.

To reserve a table, seat, or donate raffle prizes or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact lord.provost@edinburgh.gov.uk  or phone Elaine on (0131) 469 3856.

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Hot on the heels of Ewan McGregor bringing his new film American Pastoral to Edinburgh just last night, we now have the trailer for his next film, Trainspotting 2, released just this morning.

As an actor McGregor is well known for having starred in the first film, and along with Star Wars it is probably Renton who propelled him to the international film star status he now enjoys.

Here in Edinburgh we became used to hearing about filming of various scenes which will be used in Trainspotting 2 over recent months. They would be in Muirhouse Shopping Centre one day and the Grassmarket another night, and we just accepted that we would have to wait till the film was finished.

Now the trailer’s out – so what do we already know about the movie (which is not released till 27 January 2017)?

It’s still based on a book by Irvine Welsh.

There are still references to drugs.

There are many cross-references to the original film.

The film features original cast members Robert Carlyle and Ewan McGregor, Jonny Lee Miller, Ewen Bremner and Simon Weir.

It is directed by Danny Boyle, and so was the first film.

It deals with the  20 year time gap since the last film which was released in 1996 directly… “What’ve you been up to for the last 20 years?”

And the main message is once again “Choose Life!”

But the best bit for us living in Edinburgh is spotting the locations.

The film features Edinburgh fairly prominently with Arthur’s Seat, a tram on Princes Street, King’s Stables Road, the Grassmarket, what looks like Parliament Square and what looks like a block of flats in either Leith or Gilmerton all in the trailer. (where is the block of flats? Do tell if you know!)

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsozpEE543w?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

And if this is not enough Trainspotting for you this morning, then watch the trailer for the original 1996 film:

Scotland players will defy FIFA by wearing black armbands bearing poppies during next Friday’s World Cup qualifier against England at Wembley.

The news was broken on the SFA website yesterday in the following statement: “We fully respect the laws of the game and take our founding role on the International Football Association Board extremely seriously.

“The poppy is an important symbol of remembrance and we do not believe it represents a political, religious or commercial message, nor does it relate to any one historical event.

“In keeping with what we believe is in accordance with Law 4, para 4, the Scottish FA intends to pay appropriate tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice by having the Scotland national team wear black armbands bearing poppies in our fixture against England on Armistice Day.”

England will also pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

The matter was raised during yesterday’s Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons.

There was a lot of excitement in the Filmhouse Bar around 6.00pm this evening. Photographers were perched on stepladders in the foyer, journalists lined up for a short interview opportunity with one of Scotland’s sons, and regular cinema-goers tried hard to get a clear view.

And then he arrived. Our Scottish film star who now lives in Hollywood, but who is perhaps best known in Edinburgh as Renton in Trainspotting.

Ewan McGregor OBE, still apparently sporting a Trainspotting haircut, who played Obi-Wan-Kenobi in Star Wars and who has spent 25 years in front of the camera, has finally gone to the other side as director of the film adaptation of the Philip Roth novel, American Pastoral. He plays the father of Dakota Fanning’s troubled Merry, and although set in Newark the film was for the large part shot in Pittsburgh.

He explained that he continually gave the wrong directions to his Director of Photography, as he was so used to looking at scenes from the other angle!

Accompanied by the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon he proceeded up the line and on into Filmhouse 1 where the audience awaited the premiere of his newest film.

And it is a very good debut indeed.  Full of angst and exploring the dark side of family life with real conviction, this is a film to go and see.

McGregor explained that he has learned a lot about directing from Danny Boyle, and has copied his lead in clearing the set of all technical staff at the beginning of each new shot to allow some rehearsal with only the actors.

He spent around half an hour after the film in a Q & A, and answering questions from the audience before going off with his father on whom the prosthetics for the older ‘Swede’ are perhaps based!

Edinburgh-based Macsween, Scotland’s leading haggis producer, has just launched Macsween Sausages.

The family-owned company well known for its haggis, has introduced a range of sausages: Pork & Haggis, Smoky Pork & Beer and Bacon & Black Pudding, using only the finest quality ingredients of prime pork shoulder and a unique blend of spices, just in time for National Sausage Week this week

Hearts have announced that their Ladbrokes Premiership game at Hamilton Academical, scheduled for Saturday 19^th November 2016, will now be played on Monday 21^st November 2016.

This is due to severe travel disruption expected in the New Douglas Park area that weekend. Hearts released the following statement through their official website:

Hearts’ Ladbrokes Premiership match away to Hamilton Academical on Saturday, November 19th has been rearranged for Monday, November 21st due to severe travel disruption.

The match will now kick off at 7.45pm.

The New Douglas Park clash was due to take place on the weekend that the Bothwellpark Road Bridge is to be demolished, forcing the road closure of the M74 between Junction 4 Maryville and Junction 5 Raith.

This closure will cause significant disruption to both north and southbound traffic on the M74 on approach, and to the surrounding local roads. Major delays are also expected on diversion routes.

Following talks with Hamilton Academical and the SPFL, all parties have decided to push the game back to Monday night in order to give supporters the best chance of seeing the match without facing severe travel disruption.

The club would like to assure fans that all other alternative options were looked at, including different routes to the game, but with traffic diversions also being used by up to 100,000 other road users on Saturday, particularly in areas of Glasgow where other SPFL games are taking place, moving the game was identified as the best possible solution.  

The club apologises to those fans who have already made arrangements for the original fixture date but it has acted in the swiftest manner possible following the severity of the situation, and intended solutions, being raised on Monday.

A midwifery student from Edinburgh Napier University believes her experiences as a new mum helped develop her award-winning caring skills.

Ellen Pool received the Simon Pullin Award at her graduation ceremony last week.  The award was created to honour the human side of nursing and midwifery in memory of Senior Nurse Simon Pullin. Pullin played a key role in Edinburgh Napier’s Compassionate Care Programme up until his death from cancer in July 2011.

Ellen, a mother-of-one from Morningside, impressed judges with an account of her care of a new mum during a placement at the Royal Infirmary. The written piece was seen to have clearly demonstrated her understanding of compassionate care. She said:

”Having a baby during the course and experiencing maternity care firsthand has given me another perspective on the simple things we can do as midwives that can really enhance a woman’s experience of birth.”

“I’m looking forward to continuing my midwifery journey and working in such a wonderful profession.”

Her submission for the award also included feedback from a woman she had supported through her pregnancy, a community midwife mentor and one of her lecturers.

Dr Stephen Smith, who is Lead Nurse in Compassionate Care, said: ”Ellen is a worthy winner of the Simon Pullin Award. Being compassionate in busy clinical settings is a significant challenge for many, and the professional’s response has an important impact on experiences of care.”

Scot Gemmill has named his Scotland Under-21 squad for the forthcoming friendly match against Slovakia next month.

John Souttar has been recalled after serving a suspension earlier this month and there is also a place for fellow Heart of Midlothian defender Liam Smith.

Liam Henderson who helped Hibs win the Scottish Cup whilst on loan from Celtic also features.

Jai Quitongo has been included for the first time, alongside his team mate Aidan Nesbitt, who is on loan to Greenock Morton from Celtic.

There is also a first call up for Hamilton Academical striker Eamonn Brophy and Celtic goalkeeper Ross Doohan.

Gemmill will take a young squad to Slovakia where the sides will meet at Stadium Myjava on Wednesday, 9 November.

His squad consists of players born in 1996 and later but they will take on a Slovakia destined for next summer’s European Championship in Poland which features players born in 1994 and later.

He said: “This match will offer the players another tough test as Slovakia have qualified for next summer’s finals.

“I think it’s important we continue to face strong opposition and challenge the players every time they come away with us.

“I’ve included a couple of new faces and hopefully they will see this as their opportunity to impress.

“I said last month that I will leave no stone unturned in finding the best young players for the under-21 squad and this is a good chance for some new ones to come in and make their mark.”

Scotland Under-21 squad:

Goalkeepers

Ross Doohan (Celtic)
Ryan Fulton (Liverpool, loan to Chesterfield)
Robbie Mutch (Aberdeen, loan to Arbroath)

Defenders

Kyle Cameron (Newcastle United, loan to Newport Couty)
Alex Iacovitti (Nottingham Forest, loan to Mansfield Town)
Zak Jules (Reading)
Calum MacDonald (Derby County)
Jake Sheppard (Reading)
Liam Smith (Heart of Midlothian)
John Souttar (Heart of Midlothian)

Midfielders

Chris Cadden (Motherwell)
Greg Docherty (Hamilton Academical)
Liam Henderson (Celtic)
James Jones (Crewe Alexandra)
Aidan Nesbitt (Celtic, loan to Greenock Morton)
Ruben Sammut (Chelsea)

Forwards

Eamonn Brophy (Hamilton Academical)
Ryan Hardie (Rangers, loan to St Mirren)
Jai Quitongo (Greenock Morton)

A new fitness programme has been launched today by Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF) to increase fitness and wellbeing of schoolchildren in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Local schools with the highest number of pupils entered for EMF junior races will get a certificate and a mention in the EMF newsletter.

Edinburgh Marathon Festival Race Director, Neil Kilgour said: “We are really keen to recognise and reward the achievements of the staff and pupils of local schools who have made such an effort to get more active. We are really proud that these races help make real change. After seeing the success of the Daily Mile, we realise it’s important to build on the momentum of keeping our children more active. We love encouraging kids to get involved with the EMF junior races as it provides an occasion where they can celebrate a sense of achievement as they cross the finish line.  We love rewarding effort.”

“The junior races at EMF cater for all ages and abilities, some will enter for the competition and some enter to be part of the festival feeling over the weekend. We will help them celebrate their fantastic effort with every child that crosses the finish line receiving a fantastic medal, top class t-shirt, goodybag, and a fantastic running experience.”

Has your school entered?

Find out more about how to become an EMF Super Active School at www.edinburghmarathon.com.

Event Horizon is at The Blind Poet, West Nicolson Street from 7.30pm on Monday 7th November; everyone is welcome!

‘As we sit around the fire of driftwood, sparks floating to mingle with the stars in the sky, we can share these tales, and remember one of the greatest gifts we have as human beings is our infinitely expandable imagination and sense of wonder.’

Shoreline of Infinity is Scotland’s new sci-fi magazine, featuring fiction and poetry by writers you may know and some you may not, plus interviews, reviews, comic features and explorations of classic Scottish science fiction. Editor Noel Chidwick says;

‘Science Fiction has always asked the big questions, more so than in any other form of literature. Where have we come from? Where are we going? Where do we want to be? What’s going to happen? How will we cope? What’s the story?….And that still holds true as we consider the effects of climate change and stripping the Earth’s resources beyond its means. And the rest.’

The beautifully illustrated magazine is now into its 5th edition.  Art Director Mark Toner explains;

‘….when we look into that driftwood fire, we see the images of our future mythology, and images…play a big part in the distinctive nature of Shoreline. Scotland is home to a wonderful community of science fiction artists, better known abroad than in their own country….the glossy comics, the blockbuster movies all have more than a few Scottish contributors in the visual department….we hope to astound you with illustrations, covers and a great poster shop. Expect the unexpected, as the Terrahawks used to say.’

And Shoreline of Infinity doesn’t stop there. Its regular mini-festival, Event Horizon, held on the first Monday of every month, brings you a free evening of sci-fi entertainment, with poetry, short stories, live music, art, raffle, comics, chat and more. In November it will include poetry from Ruth Aylett, prose from Stephen Goodall, and Seeing Stars – a drama with Debbie Cannon and Jonathan Whiteside. A ‘musical collage of story, song and hardware tools’ will be provided by Markee de Saw & Bert Finkle (pictured), and the evening will be held together – or encouraged to drift away – by Russell Jones, Shoreline of Infinity Assistant Editor.

To find out more about Shoreline of Infinity, or to purchase copies of the current and previous editions, visit the website here. And if you’re a budding SF writer, take a look at the Submissions page. If you can offer ‘a good science fiction story. Something that gives reality a tweak on the nose. An idea that makes us stop and think.’ this could be your golden opportunity….

Gordon Strachan has named his squad to take on England at Wembley Stadium next Friday night.

Hibs’ midfielder John McGinn retains his place alongside Hearts’ Jack Hamilton and Callum Paterson.

Scott Brown is back in the squad after announcing his retirement from international football earlier this year.

The Celtic midfielder has been in impressive form of late and joins Swansea’s Stephen Kingsley who comes into the squad at left back with Andrew Robertson and Kieran Tierney both injured.

Gordon Strachan said: “Scott (Brown) retired in August when he was in a different place to where he is now.

“At that time it was beneficial for him and Celtic that he retired from international football.

“We respected that but Scott is in a different place now and feels he can help us in our quest to get to a major finals.

“We’re happy to have Stephen Kingsley in the squad. He is a player who features in the English Premiership regularly for Swansea and if you do that, you’re not a bad player.

“We saw Stephen close hand when he played against France in June and he did well. He’ll integrate well within the squad.

“We’re all looking forward to playing England at Wembley. We all feel that, after the last few results, it’s time to start winning again.

“Everyone loves this fixture and we’re the lucky ones who get the chance to participate in this game and put in a good performance.”

Scotland squad to face England at Wembley Stadium 

Goalkeepers

Craig Gordon (Celtic) 44 caps

Jack Hamilton (Heart of Midlothian) 0 caps

David Marshall (Hull City) 27 caps

Defenders

Christophe Berra (Ipswich Town) 33 caps

Gordon Greer (Blackburn Rovers) 11 caps

Grant Hanley (Newcastle United) 26 caps

Stephen Kingsley (Swansea City) 1 cap

Russell Martin (Norwich City) 28 caps

Callum Paterson (Heart of Midlothian) 4 caps

Lee Wallace (Rangers) 8 caps

Midfielders

Ikechi Anya (Derby County) 23 caps

Barry Bannan (Sheffield Wednesday) 24 caps

Scott Brown (Celtic) 50 caps

Oliver Burke (RB Leipzig) 4 caps

Darren Fletcher (West Bromwich Albion) 76 caps

James Forrest (Celtic) 15 caps

James McArthur (Crystal Palace) 26 caps

John McGinn (Hibernian) 2 caps

James Morrison (West Bromwich Albion) 41 caps

Matt Ritchie (Newcastle United) 13 caps

Robert Snodgrass (Hull City) 20 caps

Forwards

Steven Fletcher (Sheffield Wednesday) 30 caps

Leigh Griffiths (Celtic) 9 caps

Chris Martin (Derby County) * 10 caps

Steven Naismith (Norwich City) 43 caps

*On loan to Fulham

Police are appealing for information to assist them with an investigation into an attempted robbery with a weapon on a public bus in the Dalry area.

The incident occurred at around 7.15pm on Wednesday 26 October 2016 on board the number 25 bus, travelling between Leith Walk and Dalry Road. 

Officers are very keen to trace a man that officers believe to be a key witness in this serious offence.  They are appealing for anyone who recognises the man described below, or who may have information about this incident, to come forward. 

The man sought by police is described as white, in his thirties, 5ft 10in to 6ft tall, of medium build, with closely shaved hair.

At the time, he was wearing a black hooded insulated jacket which had a lighter trim, black trousers, and dark trainers with a lighter coloured sole.

He was carrying a black Nike drawstring bag and a bottle of water. He was last seen alighting from the bus at Dalry Road. 

Officers wish to stress that this male is sought only as witness to the offence. There is absolutely nothing to suggest that he was involved in the crime, however officers believe that he may have vital information that could assist them with their investigation. 

Detective Constable Gavin Howat of Corstorphine CID said: “We’ve conducted enquiries and collected evidence but we’re still eager to speak to this man about the incident. We would urge him to get in touch with us or anyone who can help us trace him is asked to come forward.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or make an anonymous report tho Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.

Edinburgh musicians and gig-goers are heartbroken after learning that Bill Kyle, best known as the founder of The Jazz Bar, has passed away suddenly at the age of 70.

A passionate jazz drummer and champion of Scottish music, those who knew him best described Bill as a quiet and generous man, enthusiastic about music and always supportive of young talent.

Friends, colleagues and fellow musicians gathered in The Jazz Bar, which was briefly closed to the public on Monday evening, to honour Bill with an impromptu and emotional tribute featuring performances from local musicians. The venue then re-opened for scheduled performances at 11pm.

A spokesperson from the Jazz Bar said: “Bill managed to create an amazing place here, all we can do is hope to build on what he started and keep it all about the music.”

It is believed that the ownership of The Jazz Bar will now pass to Bill’s wife, and meantime the business is open as usual.

Bill was originally from Dunfermline and became a legend of the Scottish music scene starting in the 1970s with his band Head, who were by many accounts Scotland’s first major Jazz Fusion band. The band released three albums and garnered much critical and popular success. He went on to live and work in Glasgow for 12 years before moving to New York and then London, juggling his passion for music with a highly successful IT business.

Alongside and as well as his own musical endeavours, Bill helped build a network of jazz musicians throughout Scotland with a non-profit organisation called Platform and subsequently with Bridge Music, which was founded in 2002.

The original Jazz Bar venue on South Bridge opened in April of 2002 but the venue was destroyed after just seven months following a fire which damaged several properties on the Cowgate. Undeterred, he went on to re-open the Jazz Bar in its current location on Chamber Street in July 2005 and it has since gone on to become Scotland’s premier jazz, funk and blues night venue, hosting both local grassroots talent and international acts.

Dozens of touching tributes have been paid on the bar’s Facebook page and other social media, from local musicians working in the Edinburgh scene to international performers who owe Bill their first gigs.

The future of The Jazz Bar remains positive, with the venue vowing to carry on programming live music in Bill’s honour saying on Facebook : “Many of you will have questions concerning the future of JB but we assure you that we will carry on his legacy of having The Jazz Bar at the heart of Edinburgh’s live music scene.”

Later today The City of Edinburgh Council will open a new residential home for young people in Wester Hailes. The Heathervale Young Peoples Centre will provide accommodation for young people between the age of 8 and 18.

This is the first time the council has built a new care home facility since 2003 and the home has a self contained flat with living and creative spaces for the residents and staff.

Councillor Cathy Fullerton who is Vice-Convener of the Education, Children and Families Committee will cut the ribbon later.

The Scottish Government issued new guidelines for the design of residential care homes to create a nurturing homely atmosphere, and this advice was taken into account when considering what Heathervale would look like.

Young people themselves were involved in the colour schemes and furniture being used in the home, but large firms such as John Lewis, Texture and Harlequin also helped by providing wallpaper for up cycling. An appeal to local arts and crafts groups resulted in an amazing array of hand-made cushions and quilts for Heathervale and other local residential homes. The interior design at the homes has been nominated for a Society of British and International Design Award.

Councillor Cathy Fullerton, Vice Convener of the Education, Children & Families Committee at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We are determined to make our remaining residential estate of the highest possible quality and this fantastic new building is the first significant step in achieving this.

“I’m delighted that one of the innovative elements for the new Heathervale YPC has been involving young people in the design process itself. The impact of a care home environment can have an effect on the children and young people living there so taking on board their views and comments has been a very positive step.

“Some young people are in care for a short period of time so the flexible and nurturing approach used in Heathervale’s design sends out a strong message about how much the Capital Coalition values our residential services and our young people who are cared for.”