By Michael Court

One of the less publicised measures in Finance Secretary John Swinney’s Budget are giving cause for measured consideration by many commercial Scottish property professionals.

The proposal unveiled in December is to limit the empty property relief which attaches to vacant commercial premises. From April, the plan is to reduce the current 100% relief from rates to 10% after three months, meaning that landlords would face a 90% charge on non-earning buildings.

This time round, the focus is on industrial premises, which have long enjoyed the benefit of full exemption. Three years ago, Holyrood imposed a similar regime on office properties – and the result was widespread devastation of that market.

In many towns in Scotland, particularly in provincial areas, investors are bailing out of office accommodation and premises are being sold at prices per square foot which are more like rental rates than sale rates. Investment in the sector has juddered to a virtual halt.

The negative effect of this burden on the industrial element of the commercial property sector is likely to impact, ironically at just the time when the market was starting to show signs of recovering health.

This a sector in which investors and developers have traditionally built and held industrial stock and made it available for rental to wide range of occupiers, providing a valuable service to the production and distribution base.

At the start of this year, the market was still short of stock as a result of a funding gap whereby construction costs often exceeded the value of the completed unit. But as the economy improved, new and speculative builders were once again appearing on the horizon, especially in the larger cities, where rental demand was on the increase.

These small signs of progress are now significantly threatened by the proposed action on relief. The effects of this new burden will not be restricted to making new build less attractive. Holding vacant industrial stock will now come at a prohibitive cost.

This overturns the risk/reward ratio and depresses returns, making operators think twice about where they are going to deploy their money. Many older buildings, which secondary investors might have sub-divided, will now be so unrewarding that roof-stripping or demolition becomes a serious option.

It should also be remembered that local authorities and development agencies such as Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Island Enterprise hold a significant portion of the industrial stock in Scotland. This will not help them provide assistance to business.

The apparent rationale for the government’s latest move is to stop landlords “sitting on” empty properties. But this wholly misses the point that buildings are not left vacant through choice. A host of factors govern that decision – including the time needed for renovation and energy-conscious upgrading.

In fact, over the recessionary years, owners and investors have shown a pragmatic and common sense flexibility over rents and lease terms and have gone out of their way to keep tenants – and, by extension, jobs and income – active.

If, as we suspect, the commercial stock declines as removal of relief makes it unviable, the consequences will be far-reaching – not just for landlords and investors, but for basic business potential. New build will stutter as investors decide the game isn’t worth the candle. In the short to medium term lower rentals and capital values will inhibit investment and erode portfolio values making it difficult to finance new projects, even if there was an appetite to do so. Any investors with bank borrowing will find loan to value gearing undermined which can lead to breach of covenant issues with the lenders.

Industrial floor space is a key component of any economy which still aspires to a manufacturing, service or distribution future. It just doesn’t make sense to introduce legislation which so dramatically erodes the value of essential assets.

Commercial property professionals are lobbying hard at the moment to persuade the legislators of the danger of, to put it generously, unintended consequences. Whether their opinion will matter remains to be seen.

The stark truth is that a measure of this type can do nothing but harm to a very necessary, but still fragile, link in the economic chain. We have to ask if this is what it really intended. And, if it isn’t, will the decision makers have the courage to think again?

Michael Court is a partner in DM Hall Chartered Surveyors, based in the firm’s Edinburgh office.

For further information, contact DM Hall Chartered Surveyors, 17 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6DD. T: 0131 477 6000. edinburghresidential@dmhall.co.uk.

www.dmhall.co.uk http://twitter.com/dmhallLLP.

Police are appealing for witnesses following an assault and robbery in the Oxgangs area of the city which took place around 8pm on Sunday night.

A 32-year-old man was walking through Oxgangs Road North, towards Oxgangs Street, when he became aware of two men.

One of the men then grabbed the victim from behind and threatened him with a sharp object, before dragging him to the ground.

The other man took his wallet and other items, and the pair ran off.

One of the men is described as white, with a local accent aged between 20 to 30-years-old.

He was wearing a black hooded top, which had white writing on it, and had his hood up.

Detective Sergeant Robbie Wallace, of Corstorphine Police Station, said: “This was an unprovoked attack and we’re asking anyone who saw anything suspicious in that area around that time to get in touch with us.”

Those with any information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police are looking to trace two men in connection with an armed robbery and assault which took place around 5:25am on Sunday morning in Fountainbridge at the entrance to a block of flats located near to the junction with Gilmore Park.

The male victim, who is in his late teens, had walked from McDonald’s in Princes Street, West End, to Costcutter at the junction of Lothian Road and Bread Street. He then turned right along Fountainbridge heading towards Fountain Park when he became aware of two males following him closely from behind.

As he neared the junction for Gilmore Park the two men grabbed him before pulling out knives.

The assailants then walked the man to a nearby common stair entrance. When inside, one of the attackers stole a sum of money and his mobile phone before both made off on foot.

Police are now appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

The first suspect is described as white, aged between 20 and 40 years, skinny build and around 5ft 10ins tall. He was wearing a dark jacket with the hood up which had a badge or crest displayed on the left breast pocket and he spoke with a local accent.

The second male is also white, aged between 20 and 40 years old and around 5ft 10ins tall. He has a dark beard and wearing dark jacket with the hood up, black woolly gloves and had a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Robbie Wallace who is based at Corstorphine Police Station said: “The victim sustained no serious injuries however this incident left him badly shaken.

“We’re carrying out various lines of inquiry to trace both suspects and arrest them as quickly as possible.

“I’d be interested to hear from anyone who recognises the description or who was in the Fountainbridge area around the time of this incident. From our early inquiries we believe both men had been loitering near to a Scotmid shop on Lothian Road shortly before the attack.

“Again, anyone who remembers seeing them is asked to contact police on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A secluded cul de sac at the top of Murrayfield Road may be called Millionaires’ Row by property experts, (although we know of a few residents who call it ‘The Scheme’).

To live there you might expect to pay over £1 million for a house. Certainly former Rangers Chairman, David Murray was trying to sell his home there for more than that a while back.

But now Gilson Gray are marketing a property at less than seven figures, but which is pretty special all the same.

It has enough space for entertaining and views over Murrayfield and to the Pentlands beyond. The 1930s apartment is coming up for sale for the first time in almost a quarter of a century.

Rob McGregor, Associate Director of Property Sales at Gilson Gray, said: “Properties such as this rarely come to market and thus represent an exciting opportunity to acquire an unrivalled home for generations to come.

“Blessed with a favourable south-facing aspect, stunning views and vast space, this exceptional property is flooded with warm, natural light and enjoys a spacious and airy ambience throughout.”

“Elsewhere in the property there is a lavish master suite with a substantial walk in wardrobe and en-suite and two further double bedrooms which overlook the front of the property.

“The apartment also accommodates a vast kitchen and a generous dining area, perfect for family meals or informal entertaining, while externally the property features a single garage and an allocated parking space directly in front.”

Jane Shurmer, daughter of the former owner, said: “This really is the most special property in a very community minded area.

“You have to walk into the property to fully understand just how incredible it is and how much space is available, it has the most spectacular master suite and drawing room.

“My mother moved here in 1994 and adored it – I will be delighted to see someone love the flat the way mum did.”

20-2 Easter Belmont Road Edinburgh Offers Over £815,000.

More details here. 

The council’s planners will recommend to councillors later this week that the former church at the west end of Rose Street will be turned into a restaurant with rooms.

Following a lengthy passage through the planning process during which many voiced their objections to the move, it seems that the west end of Rose Street will become a major new venue for owners, Glendola Leisure Limited

In 2014 an application for converting the building to a ‘superpub’ was refused, but this new application by the company which also owns Waxy O’Connors in Glasgow is being accepted by the planners.

There will be a 124 cover restaurant on the ground floor and a bar in the basement for 64 in the restaurant and 48 people standing at the bar, with 22 serviced apartments in the space above. Two new floors will be formed with a guest lounge on the first floor.

Although this is a listed building, and despite objections from Historic Environment Scotland, it appears that the interior alterations are being permitted as the exterior changes will largely be unseen.

The West End Community Council were supportive of the development on the basis that the historic building will be kept in use, the former congregation having moved out to new premises on Shandwick Place. But they did stipulate that the opening hours will have to be strictly regulated by the licensing board.

At the same meeting this week the advertising giant JC Decaux the company which puts up the council’s bus shelters with digital advertising panels, faces no fewer than nine refusals in reply to its applications for advertising sites on George Street.

The bus shelters on Princes Street have now become part of the landscape, with photographers using the uniform light spilling from them as a kind of arty feature in shots from Calton Hill, but it seems that the planners do not want them on George Street.

The planners have said that there is no digital advertising on the pavements on this street which is an integral part of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site and the New Town Conservation Area.

The advertising company proposed digital illuminated panels on both ends of the bus shelters each with around 2 square metres of advertising space.

The shelters will go ahead as these do not require planning permission but the advertising panels are being kicked into the long grass in this ‘visually sensitive location’. The planners say that digital advertising panels would damage the unique and special historical character of the street and would detract from the views from one end to the other.

The proposed new hotel on the site of one of the surface car parks at Ocean Terminal will also be discussed on a preliminary basis although no decision will be made at this meeting.

You can follow the meeting live on the council’s webcast here.

A man convicted of raping a 19-year-old female student  has today been sentenced to eight years in prison and placed on the Sex Offenders Register.

Steven Davidson appeared before Edinburgh High Court having been found guilty of attacking the teenager on the morning of Saturday, November 15, 2014.

She had been making her way home from a party on Niddry Street when the then 22-year-old approached her from behind on Jawbone Walk in the Meadows just before 7am.

She was then forced to the ground and sexually assaulted before Davidson, from Newtongrange, ran off towards the Summerhall area.

A concerned member of the public who found the victim in the park subsequently raised the alarm with police.

Specialist officers from Police Scotland’s Public Protection Unit launched a major investigation, which led to the eventual arrest of Davidson on the 21st of December, 2014.

Following today’s sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Alwyn Bell from the Edinburgh Public Protection Unit based in Fettes said: “I would like to acknowledge the courage and bravery of the victim who has greatly assisted in ensuring that this dangerous predator has been removed from our streets for a considerable length of time.  She is determined to overcome the trauma of this incident and the callous actions of Steven Davidson.

“The local community of Edinburgh also played an important role in bringing Steven Davidson to justice by assisting the enquiry team over the course of this investigation.

“I also wish to echo the views expressed by the Sheriff today and recognise the exceptional work carried out by Police Scotland officers who worked tirelessly to ensure Steven Davidson was traced and swiftly arrested for the heinous crime.

“Why he chose to prey on this innocent woman we will probably never fully understand but I hope this sentence will provide some sense of closure to the victim and her family.

“Police Scotland is committed to ensuring people like Steven Davidson are swiftly traced and brought to justice and today’s sentence should demonstrate that such offences will not be tolerated under any circumstance and acts as a deterrent.”

Will America buy in to Donald Trump’s vision of a God-fearing New Jerusalem? (Terms & Conditions apply).

Was the Holy Father’s perceived interference in the Democratic process, albeit the American variety, ill-judged?

‘If you don’t know what it is to be a witch, how can you knowingly deny not being one?’ asks a Salem inquisitor.

The Devil, truly or malfeasant, forever lurks within the detail. With Trump’s conjured Beelzebub hordes hiding beneath sombreros, together with the Oscar/BAFTA nominated film, Trumbo (Dir. Jay Roach, 2015) dramatising the McCarthy ‘witch-hunt’ trials, perhaps this timely revival of The Crucible has a febrile immediacy – Cometh the hour, cometh the man?

In his preface/overture to the play Miller wrote: ‘The witch-hunt was a perverse manifestation of the panic which sets in amongst all classes when the balance began to turn towards greater individual freedom.’

Director John Dove’s ability to encapsulate Miller’s studied dissection of a puritanical community, spiritually and morally spiraling into self-evisceration, has never been more contemporaneous, apposite and foreboding . A London East End idiom for impending mayhem once went: ‘The Devil is home on leave’. The Royal Lyceum’s ensemble seem to be very much at home with that. They have opened the door and made it theirs and Miller’s ‘Scottish Play’.

Dove remains faithful to both text and Miller’s precise stage directions. Sparse set designs and period wardrobe are strongly lit through out. During act transitions there are blackouts, a backdrop primal forest looms, predatory, an insinuating prologue to the impending human calamity.

There are convincing performances throughout, not least, Meghan Tyler’s Abigail Williams. Described by Miller as ‘…a strikingly beautiful girl of seventeen,’ Tyler carries that part effortlessly. Through her ‘…endless capacity for dissembling’ Abigail exalts in her manipulative opportunism.

Ever conscious of her mayfly credibility she distorts insecure passions most likely to ensure her survival, or so she thinks. Kirsty Mackay’s increasingly confident, Mary Warren, invokes a repressed, adolescent strutting with a vulnerable desire for independence. The corpulent bombast of Ron Donachie’s Deputy Governor Danforth, dominates the final Act. Other parts are discharged with equal command.

This production allows for slow-fused exposition where incremental accusations and counter-charges translate from incredulous farce to existential horror. The audience cling to gallows-humour as best they can.

One by one the good, the bad and the ugly of Salem and beyond each assume their parts.

By Act 4, in the claustrophobic, climatic court-room setting, the seven deadly sins, once abstract, now manifest themselves with devastating clarity. Each of the ensemble cast are bewildered, emboldened or subsumed by the vortices of vice and virtue that spiral beyond their control.

Whereas Miller’s closing cathartic tableaux describes Hale ‘…weeping in frantic tears…as drums rattle like bones…’ John Dove’s interpretation is more nuanced and subtle.

It allows the visceral humanity of John Procter’s (Philip Cairns) submission to his own truth to become an epiphany of trusting love that Salem’s soul cried out for.

A must-see show and be damned if you don’t!

Hibs’ winger Dan Carmichael returned to the Hibs’ starting XI yesterday and capped a fine display with his first goal for the club since signing from Queen of the South in the summer.

He calmly slotted in the team’s second goal just before half time but he was quick to praise team mate  James Keatings’ who provided a sublime pass to split the Wasps defence.

Carmichael’s Hibs’ career has been hampered by injury made his first start since August but he insists that after is operation he is now looking forward and looks to get fitter as the season progresses.

With games coming thick and fast, Head Coach Alan Stubbs insists that all his squad will be utilised for the remainder of the season and yesterday Carmichael played in an unfamiliar position  as a wing back in an attacking 3-5-2 formation.

Speaking immediately after the game to Cliff Pike of Hibernian TV, Carmichael said: “I’ve not had a lot of game time this season, so to just get onto the pitch was good. I’m a natural winger so I just sort of fit into that position, and I got myself a wee goal too.

“James Keatings has got that in his locker, I just seen him and made the run. It was a great pass and it was just a tap-in for me really.

“When you come into a new team you want to hit the ground running and obviously I didn’t do that which is frustrating but you just have to keep it going. I got through the injury and just want to get some game time. To get some minutes today was good.

“My injury was in the groin and abdomen and I did everything without going down the operation route then I had to do that. Maybe I should have done that earlier. Now I just have to look forward and get myself fit.

“I’m getting there but I’m not fully match fit yet and it was good to get the 90 minutes under my belt.”

“

A body has been recovered from a stretch of coastline in North Queensferry this morning as part of the search operation for missing Edinburgh teenager, Jasmine Macquaker.

A member of the public raised the alarm with police shortly after 7am.

A formal identification is yet to be carried out however Jasmine’s family have been informed and have requested that their privacy be respected at this very difficult time.

The death is currently being as unexplained.

Jasmine was reported missing on Sunday night (Feb 22) having last been seen at Dalmeny Railway Station at around 8:15pm.

‘Buy to let’ investors – should you buy now?

There are some changes proposed  to the tax incurred on a property purchase from April 2016 which might make you think about doing just that.

The Scottish Government announced its budget in December 2015 and within that there are provisions to raise Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) to 3% on second homes or homes you plan to purchase for investment.  This will affect all houses above £40,000 and the government hopes to raise between £17 and £29 million in the next financial year.

As it stands at the moment there is no tax payable on any property purchased up to £145,000, but this move will introduce a tax on second properties below that price too.

LBTT was only introduced in April 2015, the first Scottish Tax paid direct to the Scottish Government through the newly constituted Revenue Scotland.  It replaced the old Stamp Duty charged by the UK revenue, but it has always been the case that rates of tax are revised from time to time.

LBTT is charged on any purchase of property situated in Scotland, no matter where the tax payer lives. It is usually paid very soon after the property purchase is settled.

The Scottish Government has recently announced that there will be an additional charge for those buying second or subsequent houses which cost over £40,000. This additional charge of 3% will apply to the whole price. It will not affect you if you are going to live in the new property as a main residence, but it will affect property investors.

There are different rules and rates for non-residential and for commercial or agricultural properties, and notably student accommodation is exempt from any LBTT. (perhaps one reason why so many developers choose to build student flats in the city?) Additional legislation is expected from Holyrood shortly, particularly as the Stage One Debate will take place tomorrow, 23 February 2016. The plan is to pass the necessary legislation before Parliament dissolves on 23 March. The UK Government has already consulted on similar legislation for the rest of the UK.

You can read the Finance Committee’s Stage 1 Report making recommendations to the Scottish Government in full below.

Meantime it seems clear to most property experts that if you are buying a second home or if you are a property investor then there is no time like the present.

McQueen Legal can provide a quote on how much your property purchase will cost you in terms of fees and LBTT, whether you buy now or after April 2016.

Mary McQueen said: “All things being equal, we would suggest completing your purchase prior to 1^st April, but don’t be tempted to pay over the odds for your purchase now in order to save the additional tax.

“We can advise on the best way forward in individual circumstances.”

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A 14 year-old girl who travelled to Dalmeny Railway Station around 8.15 pm last night has not been seen since she was spotted there after alighting from the train.

Police Scotland is asking for  urgent public assistance to help find Jasmine Macquaker  from Edinburgh.

Concern is growing for the young girl who is believed to have travelled from Waverley Station where she boarded a service bound for Dalmeny just after 8:00pm. Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen Jasmine at any point of this journey.

An extensive search operation involving partner agencies is now underway, which is being concentrated in the Dalmeny area.

Jasmine is described as approximately 5ft 5ins tall, slim build with long dark straight hair that is shoulder length. She was last seen wearing a waist length turquoise Rab branded jacket, dark grey jeans, grey plimsolls which have a flower pattern.

Anyone who has seen Jasmine is asked to come forward.

Inspector Nick Young who is based at Gayfield said: “It’s out of character for Jasmine to go off on her own without telling anyone and we want to find her as quickly as possible.

“An extensive search effort is now underway involving specialist teams and partner agencies. We are also liaising with Jasmine’s family and offering them any support we can.

“At this stage of our inquiry we believe Jasmine boarded a train at Waverley Station in Edinburgh bound for Dalmeny. We are carrying out various lines of inquiry around these locations but I’d be very keen to hear from anyone who saw or perhaps spoke to the teenager at any point of this journey.

“Likewise, I’d ask anyone who seen her any time after 5pm on Sunday to please contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or speak to any officer.

• Fiscal Framework
• Love to Ride Edinburgh Cycle Challenge
• Active Travel
• Edinburgh University on EU Referendum
• Wonky Veg at Asda

Following John Swinney’s visit to London last Friday there seems to be no agreement between Holyrood and Westminster on the ‘fiscal framework’.

This is the announcement that both governments put out after the meeting:

The Rt Hon Greg Hands MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Constitution and Economy met in London today. They had a useful further discussion on Scotland’s fiscal framework.

The discussion made progress in a number of areas. The two governments have not yet been able to reach an overall agreement. They explored each other’s positions and confirmed their shared interest in reaching agreement.

Ministers asked officials to do further work, and are committed to updating the Scottish and UK Parliaments shortly.

Watch this space.

If you live or work in Edinburgh, sign up to the Love To Ride Edinburgh Cycle Challenge.

Open to everyone aged 13 and over, just register for free on the website, cycle for 10 minutes between 1 – 21 March and win some fantastic prizes including bikes, clothing, experiences, cinema tickets and more.
This is a great opportunity to get back on your bike, encourage young people and workers to cycle, and have fun with friends and colleagues.
You can sign up as an individual or as part of a workplace.

Register for free at www.lovetoride.net/edinburgh

Ahead of the Scottish Government’s budget decision this Wednesday, a coalition of transport and environmental groups backed by broadcaster Lesley Riddoch and University of Edinburgh Professor Chris Oliver have called on the Government to spend less money on building new trunk roads and motorways and more on supporting walking and cycling.

Spokes, Friends of the Earth Scotland, Pedal on Parliament, Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, Ramblers Scotland and Transform Scotland have issued a Parliamentary Briefing calling on the Government to transfer 1% of its proposed trunk roads and motorways budget to active travel.

The Scottish Government plans to spend £820 million next year on building trunk roads and motorways versus a meagre £41 million on improving walking and cycling paths.

Recently published transport statistics revealed that under 2% of journeys in Scotland are currently made by bike, showing that much more investment is needed if Scotland is to meet its vision for 10% of trips to be by bike by 2020.

Dave du Feu, cycling campaigner for Spokes said : “If Councils are expected to find cuts of 7% to non-care services, surely the government can find 1% from its own trunk roads budget to ensure that its policies on walking and cycling do not suffer.

“The last year or two have seen growing ambition and expertise in many Scottish Councils seeking to improve conditions for cycling, for example Edinburgh’s plan for a segregated route through the city centre, and other bold plans in Glasgow and Inverness.  Just 1% from the government’s £820m trunk roads budget would help maintain this momentum rather than putting it at risk.”

Emilia Hanna, air pollution campaigner for Friends of the Earth Scotland said : “The Government has got its spending plans all wrong by pouring millions into roads which will create more traffic congestion, more air pollution, and more climate emissions. If it transfers just 1% of the cash it plans to spend on new polluting roads into active travel, this will support councils to get lots more people walking and cycling across Scotland.

Lesley Riddoch, broadcaster and journalist, said : “It’s not too late to make a big dent in Scotland’s bad habits with a relatively small amount of public cash. We know the sedentary lifestyle of many Scots is a killer, here’s a way to do something about it.”

You are invited to post images on social media of what the European Union means to you during the build-up to Britain’s referendum on EU membership.

You can upload a picture or video with the hashtag #myimageoftheEU on Twitter with a brief explanation of why it was chosen and where they are posting from.

The politically neutral project will use the images to track people’s impressions of Europe – positive, negative or ambivalent – and how their views change as the debate develops.

The campaign is organised by the University of Edinburgh’s Neuropolitics Research Lab, as part of the UK in a Changing Europe project, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council.

The images will form part of an exhibition in the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh on 9 May, which is Europe Day.

Organiser Clare Llewellyn said: “When people think about the EU, what image does that conjure up in their minds? We are looking for suggestions beyond men in suits in Brussels. What do people see in their daily lives that evokes the European Union? What do EU symbols mean to them? How has the EU impacted them? We are especially keen to hear from people who do not feel part of the current debate.”

The search for images will run until after the referendum on EU membership. Submissions will be posted on Twitter at @myimageoftheEU.

More information can be found at: https://storify.com/ImagineEurope/myimageoftheeu

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Supermarket Asda is launching its ‘Wonky Veg’ Box in 29 stores across Scotland, following customer feedback and campaigning. Asda has committed to making the selection box of ‘ugly’ fruit and vegetables a permanent initiative – and is committing to putting 10,000 boxes in to 550 stores, at least once a month.

This means that shoppers across Scotland will now be able to buy the much talked about £3.50 ‘Wonky Veg Box’, a new family sized box that includes nine in-season misshaped winter vegetable lines from Thursday 18th February.

It follows the resounding success of last week’s small trial at just a handful of Asda stores in the South of England.

Each box includes 5kg of fresh produce which is enough to feed a family of four for a working week and costs just £3.50 – 30% cheaper than standard lines. The contents of the wonky fruit and vegetable box will vary dependant on the season but customers can expect to see things such as: carrots, potatoes, peppers, cucumber, cabbage, leeks, parsnips and onions, to name a few.

Customer research shows that 65% of Asda customers are open to the idea of wonky veg and 75% are drawn in by the significantly low price, which led to the range becoming a permanent fixture in selected stores across Scotland.

This latest extension of the initiative by Asda alone will result in at least 500 tonnes of ‘waste’ fruit and vegetables being taken from farmers and sold in the supermarket by the end of 2016.

Ian Harrison, Asda’s produce quality director, said: “We’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the response to our wonky vegetable box and think it shows just how conscious our customers are of food waste, particularly in the produce aisle. We knew from our initial research that customers aren’t phased by the odd knobble here or a bruise there and like the fact that our wonky range is a little bit cheaper, but including this ‘ugly’ veg in a mixed box format has helped customers save even more money and plan meals for the family for the whole week, ensuring nothing is thrown away, even when it’s taken out of the supermarket aisle.

“We’re extremely excited to be able to bring the wonky veg box to even more people across the UK and in turn, further support our growers to ensure we’re buying as much of their crop as possible.”

Maureen Watt, Minister for Public Health, added: “It’s great news that the wonky veg pilot is coming to Scottish stores. Asda have been one of the partners in our Eat Better Feel Better campaign, which aims to help and encourage people to eat a healthier diet.

“This initiative really fits in with the ethos of the campaign. The supply of low cost healthy food is an ideal way to break down one of the biggest barriers that can stop people from eating healthily.”

If you are reading this article in print and would like to visit The Edinburgh Reporter website then simply scan the QR code here with a smartphone or tablet.

Police in the Scottish Borders have launched a murder investigation following the death of an elderly man in Tweedbank near Galashiels.

The body of 75-year-old David Farish was discovered within his home address in Broadlee Bank at around 1.30 p.m. on Thursday 18th February and a police presence has been in place at the property since this time.

Following a post mortem examination on the afternoon of Saturday 20th February the death is being treated as murder and an investigation led by Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team is underway.

Detective Inspector David Pinkney from the MIT said: “At this time we are in the initial stages of our inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding David’s death. However, as a result of the investigative and forensic work already carried out, we are satisfied that he has been murdered.

“David was last seen alive at 8.15 a.m. on Tuesday 16th February prior to officers finding his body at 1.30 p.m. on Thursday afternoon and anyone with information as to his movements between this time period is urged to come forward.

“Police Scotland was alerted to David’s body being within his flat by an anonymous caller who hung up quickly without leaving any details. I would request that individual to urgently get back in touch and help us with our investigation.

“In addition, anyone who has seen any suspicious activity within the Broadlee Bank area between Tuesday 16th and Thursday 18th February should also contact police immediately.”

Inspector Ali Hutchens from Melrose Police Station said: “This incident will undoubtedly distress and unsettle the local community and I would like to reassure everyone that a robust police presence will be in place throughout the Tweedbank area to investigate this crime, speak with residents and garner information that can help us bring David’s killer to justice.

“Thankfully offences of this nature remain extremely rare in the Borders but when they do occur we will utilise all resources at our disposal to investigate thoroughly.

“Anyone with information that can assist with our ongoing inquiries is asked to come forward.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Hibs’ Head Coach surprised the supporters yesterday by making seven changes to the starting XI that knocked Hearts out of the William Hill Scottish Cup on Tuesday but he insists that he is happy with the squad he has assembled, and has full trust in the players that are in the group.

Some questioned the tactic given Alloa’s recent form which included a draw with Rangers last weekend  however the incoming players produced a confident performance which resulted in a valuable three points in the Championship race.

Two of the players coming in, Martin Boyle and Dan Carmichael, were on the score sheet whilst assists were provided by James Keatings and  Chris Dagnall.

Speaking immediately after the game to Cliff Pike of  Hibs TV, Stubbs said: “We made the changes because we’ve got good players who are available to us, and we’ve got to rotate the squad from now until the end of the season. I think a lot of people maybe looked at the changes and thought, ‘Is that too many?’

“I’ve said all along that we have got a hugely competitive squad who are all wanting a starting place. I’ve got 19 players that could easily start in the eleven and for me the team today wasn’t a weakened team whatsoever. I could play any eleven, week in and week out, I’ve got total trust and total belief in the players I’ve got.

“We had an idea that Alloa were going to try and make it difficult for us so we made the pitch big. That’s why they narrowed their pitch and we wanted to make it the complete opposite today. We wanted width with them two (Dan Carmichael and Martin Boyle)

“We wanted to dominate the midfield area and we did that and our goals were exactly what we had talked about.

“I thought Boylie looked a threat all day and Dan Carmichael was very good in his contribution to the game. I thought Niklas (Gunnarsson) was steady enough and the lads up front worked tirelessly but the most important thing was the team’s performance.”

We hope you had a relaxing weekend, because you’re going to need all your energy to keep up this week with films, plays, dance, music, art and book launches all vying for your attention, and you wouldn’t want to let them down, would you?

Think of it as training for August… There are some fabulous charity events coming up too – from The Jazz Romantics’ night for Kipawa (Friday) to a Special Simpsons Saturday at the Eric Liddell Centre and Capital Sci-Fi Con’s weekend blockbuster for CHAS; where else could you meet a Star Wars First Order Admiral in the flesh? So, on your marks, get set, and you’re off the starting block – remembering, of course, to check all details with organisers before you go!

MONDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 2016

Picturehouses Toddler Time: exclusive short screenings for pre-school children and their parents and carers. Today: Rastamouse Over Da Moon (U): Join ‘Da Easy Crew’ in a programme of mystery and adventures including a hi-tech heist, world record bids and a trip to the moon! Author Michael De Souza says of his creation, ‘Rastamouse has a positive message for young children, promoting the need to understand what is right from what is wrong, and why, in a meaningful context – through understanding, love an’ respect, Rastamouse will always make a bad thing good’. 11am, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets cost £3 per child, accompanying adult free.

Passing Through Zero: an exhibition of photographs by Boris Bittker (1916 -2005). A native New Yorker and prominent legal academic (author of The Case for Black Reparations, an acclaimed study of America’s debt to African-Americans) Boris was a keen amateur photographer who travelled to many exotic and intriguing countries and captured the essence of the people. His daughter Susan has exhibited his work, which was published in 2011 with text by Candia McWilliam. 1-8pm Mondays & Wednesday, 10am-5pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Stockbridge Library, Hamilton Place. Ends 29th February 2016. All images © the artist.

Audacious Women Festival: Where have all the women gone? Who has control over the imagery of women today and throughout history and how are women like Elsie Inglis or Mary Somerville represented or remembered? Wifie (Women in Focus in Edinburgh) members continue to explore and question these ideas through their photographic practice and invite you to come along and get involved in a small photography project as part of the Audacious Women Festival.

They will be running a photography workshop where you will have a chance to try your hand at some studio portraiture, do a bit of ‘dressing up’ if you like and help the group execute its plans to bring some of these historic & audacious women into the light. This is a women-only event. 7-8.30pm, Walpole Hall, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Palmerston Place. Free but registration is required and may be made via eventbrite here. The Audacious Women Festival is a chance to break down personal, political or institutional barriers, and to celebrate audacious women everywhere. ‘Do what you always wish you dared!’ Take your own audacious action, on your own, with friends, or through your organisations. Break convention. Get outside your comfort zone. Be adventurous. Do a charity parachute jump, throw some bricks through the glass ceiling, or organise a protest march. Anything that will make a positive difference to you or to the world. There will be entertainment, workshops, films, book events and more throughout the festival – see daily listings for more information.

Strokes of Light: a pictorial story of how artist Denise McNulty has used her artistic practice to manage chronic depression. The photographs include stunning body art to represent Denise’s experiences. Open preview tonight 6.30-8.30pm, then 2-7pm Tuesday-Friday and 12 noon-5pm Saturday. Ends 27th February, Gayfield Creative Spaces, Gayfield Square. Free. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Guided Tours of the National Library: a guided tour of the building and an introduction to the Library’s collections and history. The National Library of Scotland is Scotland’s largest library and home to much of the nation’s knowledge, history and culture; this flagship building features a café, shop and free year round programme of exhibitions and events. 2pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Numbers are limited, so booking is essential and may be made by calling 0131 623 3734 or via eventbrite here. Please let NLS know if you have special access requirements.

Moving Minds: an opportunity to view the fascinating Moving Minds exhibition – created by audacious Gypsy/Traveller women from across Scotland and MECOPP (Minority Ethnic Carers of People Project). In an open, honest and often humorous way women have shared their memories, challenges, poetry and photographs, as well as reflecting on the impact prejudice can have upon mental health and wellbeing. 10am-6pm daily, Chaplaincy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free. Ends 29th February 2016. Part of the Audacious Women Festival. Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about Moving Minds and the Gypsy and Traveller communities here.

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. Inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s iconic 1952 film Ikiru (‘To Live’), the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2016 will provide an exciting collection of films looking at the way in which Japanese filmmakers have been observing and capturing people’s lives, and how people across the ages persevere, negotiate and reconcile with the environment and situation they live in.

Today’s opening film is The Letters/Tegami (12A) (In Japanese with English subtitles): Tsuyoshi and Naoki are two brothers who have always looked out for each other since they lost their parents. When older brother Tsuyoshi becomes unemployed, he is driven to commit a robbery in order to help Naoki with his university tuition fees and accidently commits murder. Undergoing a rough life as the brother of a murderer, Naoki begins to despise his sibling for the trouble he caused. This beautiful and tear-jerking social portrait of the offender’s family shows the toll the act of murder can have on the lives of those surrounding the perpetrator and is based on a novel of the same title by best-selling writer Keigo Higashino. 8.40pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film in this series is Being Good/Kimi wa iiko (15) on Wednesday 24th February.

Game Night: a new weekly event in the library. 6pm tonight and every Monday, Oxgangs Library, 343 Oxgangs Road North. All welcome – ask staff for more details.

Jo Pudelko, Exothermic: Adventures in Ultra-Adornment – a new exhibition of jewellery. In August 2015 Jo Pudelko travelled to the US to attend Burning Man, held annually in the Black Rock Desert, Nevada. She returned with a wealth of information in the form of direct experience, sketches, photographs and interviews that have informed a new body of studio work. This collection focuses on the human need for adornment and examines it through the lens of Burning Man. 9am-4.30pm, Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays), Leith School of Art, North Junction Street. There will be a talk about the exhibition on Thursday 3rd March – contact venue for details. Image: Playa Neckpiece (2016) by Jo Pudelko.

Learn Your Story: A Beginner’s Guide to Family History. A four week course starts today. 2-3pm, Edinburgh & Scottish Collection, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Booking is essential and may be made by calling 0131 242 8070 or emailing central.edsc.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Leith Conversation Cafés: friendly, respectful and engaging conversation sessions where people of different cultures can learn from each other, gain knowledge of their local area, practice their English and feel included. They are a chance for people to share stories, experiences and passions with others they might not normally meet, over a friendly cup of something warm. Conversation topics for each session are decided about a week in advance by volunteer hosts with input from guests, and the conversations are structured so that everyone has a chance to speak and be heard, however shy or confident they feel and no matter how many words of English they know. 10am-11.30am today and every Monday, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street and 7.30pm today and every Monday, The Yellow Bench, 31 Crighton Place (Leith Walk). You can find more details here. Please see Sunday’s Listings for the third Conversation Café of the week.

Picturehouses: ourscreen – Nina Forever (18). Holly (BIFA award-winner Abigail Hardingham) appears to have found true love when she falls for her colleague Rob (Cian Barry). He is nursing a broken heart after losing his girlfriend Nina (Fiona O’Shaughnessy) in a fatal road accident and she desperately wants to relieve his anguish. However, the couple’s happy union is soon compromised when the restless Nina returns from the afterlife and begins taunting them each time they attempt intimacy. At this special screening there’ll be a Q&A with writers/directors Chris Blaine & Ben Blaine, hosted by Richard Sandling who plays Man On Bus in the film. After the Q&A the Blaine brothers will also be on hand to draw your death, should you wish to get some advanced warning of your fate. 9pm, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets are available from the Box Office in person, by calling 0871 902 5723 or online. This event has been organised with ourscreen.com.

Eilidh Steel and Mark Neal: a Scottish duo whose performances combine many of their own tunes and songs along with old traditional music on fiddle, guitar and vocals, with many influences from Argyll and the West Coast of Scotland. They have toured extensively around Europe with concerts in the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall at Celtic Connections, and outdoor gigs to over 4,000 people in Verona, have supported Madness and have been the backing band for Ewan McGregor. ‘This debut album (Imprints) …. is a treat for traditional music fans. The album showcases the strong tune and songwriting of both artists, sitting these new tunes and songs seamlessly alongside traditional Scottish repertoire. Eilidh Steel & Mark Neal clearly show their grounding in Scottish musical traditions, always staying innovative and exciting’ (Music News Scotland). 7.30pm, The Outhouse, Broughton Street Lane. Image: Allan MacDonald.

Nothing Ever Happens Here Presents….Tuff Love & The Prettiots: Tuff Love are Julie Eisenstein (guitar, vocals) and Suse Bear (bass, vocals) plus drummer Iain Stewart (also a member of The Phantom Band). They come from Glasgow and they write ‘dazzling, sun-streaked guitar pop songs with mesmerising lyrics, heart-wrenching vocals and dreamy melodies like the sound of pure summer’. The Prettiots are ‘New York’s no-nonsense ukulele wielding ‘It Girls’’ – an all girl three-piece indie art-pop band who ‘paint an exceptionally vivid portrait of what it’s like to be young and living in New York City’. 8pm-12 midnight, Dissection Room, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £8 in advance (£10 on the door, sta) and are available from the Box Office on 0131 560 1580 or online here.

TUESDAY 23RD FEBRUARY 2016

Village Pub Theatre: LGBT Innovators. To celebrate LGBT History Month, Village Pub Theatre is taking over the Traverse Bar Café for two nights with short plays under the theme of ‘LGBT Innovators’. Tonight: a roaming bar performance from Melanie Jordan and Emma Anderson, short new plays from Giles Conisbee, Helen Shutt and Jo Clifford, directed by Caitlin Skinner, a special work in progress performance of Love Song to Lavender Menace by James Ley, directed by Ros Philips and a panel discussion responding to the evening’s work and themes, featuring James Ley, Jo Clifford, Sigrid Neilsen and Bob Orr. For ages 14+. 7.30pm, Traverse Theatre, Cambridge Street. Tickets cost £6.50 and may be obtained from the Box office on 0131 228 1404 or via Hub Tickets here. See Wednesday’s listings for details of the second part of the programme. Village Pub Theatre is an evolving community led theatre project based at The Village, South Fort Street Leith. Image © Rich Dyson.

Rosemary Goring: Dacre’s War. The author and Literary Editor of The Herald discusses her new novel with Alan Taylor. The sequel to bestseller After Flodden, Dacre’s War is set 10 years after the battle; it is both a vivid tale of vengeance, intrigue and heartache and a portrait of the turbulent border between Scotland and England in the 16th century. 6pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Free but booking is required and may be made by calling 0131 623 3734 or via eventbrite here.

Kirkliston Library Computer Course – for absolute beginners! Starts today at 2pm, Kirkliston Library, Station Road. Call the library on 0131 529 5510 to book your place.

Jill Martin Boualaxai: stratigraphic. An exhibition of painting, printing and found objects. Stratigraphic (strəˈtɪɡrəfɪ ): digging through the detritus like an unhinged archaeologist or treasure hunter. Jill collects the discarded objects and ephemera from floors, cupboards and drawers; old maps, architectural drawings, photographs, electrical components, mechanisms, rusted metal, boxes, glass, architectural salvage, broken plastics and wood. Jill collects everything. [Archaeologcal Stratigrapgy] a vertical section through the earth showing the relative positions of the human artefacts and therefore the chronology of successive levels of occupation. 12 noon-6pm daily (closing party 7-9pm Thursday 26th February), Gayfield Creative Spaces, Gayfield Square. Free. Ends Sunday 28th February 2016.

Juliet Jacques: Trans. In July 2012, aged thirty, freelance writer Juliet Jacques underwent sex reassignment surgery – a process she chronicled with unflinching honesty in a serialised national newspaper column. Trans tells of her life to the present moment: a story of growing up, of defining yourself, and of the rapidly changing world of gender politics. Revealing, honest, humorous and self-deprecating, Trans includes an epilogue with Sheila Heti, author of How Should a Person Be?, in which Jacques and Heti discuss the cruxes of writing and identity. 6pm, Word Power Books, West Nicolson Street. All welcome; free – donations also very welcome! ‘In an age of increasingly timid and poorly-supplied chain bookshops, everyone should be glad that Word Power exists’ (AL Kennedy). Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Picturehouses Discover Tuesdays: a chance to see something different and brilliant in this weekly slot – from cult classics and art-house gems to riveting documentaries. Today’s film is Orthodox (18): two of Britain’s finest character actors – Stephen Graham (Snatch, This Is England) and Michael Smiley (Kill List) – star respectively as Benjamin, a down-on-his-luck bare-knuckle fighter, and Shannon, a gangster who is his shady manager, in this gritty, affecting thriller. 6pm, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0871 902 5723 or online.

Screening Europe: a new season curated by Film Studies at the University of Edinburgh, introducing a varied selection of past and contemporary European films to celebrate and interrogate the history and aesthetics of cinema in Europe. Both members of the public and students are invited to an exciting series of introduced screenings that will chart the development of film across Europe.  Tonight’s film is The Draughtsman’s Contract (15):  Shot in the formal gardens of Groombridge Place in Kent, Peter Greenaway’s metaphysical detective story is set in 1694, as a sexually manipulative artist dandy is commissioned to produce twelve landscape drawings of the house. It soon becomes unclear who is actually in charge. As is usual with Greenaway, the film is cluttered with allusions to art, history and theory while the painstaking attention to detail is undercut by the ludicrous nature of the characters and their farcical pretensions.  The screening will be introduced by Professor Duncan Petrie (Department of Theatre, Film and Television, University of York). 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film in the series will be Eisenstein in Guanajuata (15), showing on Tuesday 1st March.

WEDNESDAY 24TH FEBRUARY 2016

Unsullied and Untarnished: The Ties That Bind. Few if any parts of Scotland have such a coherent and enduring regional identity as the Borders. Why is this and what is it that makes the Borders so unique? The annual Common Ridings and festivals each summer in towns such as Hawick, Selkirk, Langholm and Lauder are more than just local gala days, they are ancient rituals that unite the present with the past. A history of tradition that celebrates local history but also, more widely, unites the Borderland as a place apart – and proudly so. Regular Times columnist and Scotland Editor of The Spectator Alex Massie will talk about Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert’s Common Ridings portraits. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre. Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed. Image © Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert.

Edinburgh Story Café: bring along a bite of lunch and relax while you listen to specially selected stories and powerful poetry, handpicked from the rich Glasgow Women’s Library collection of women writers, being read out loud; bring your own thoughts to the supportive discussion.  A great chance to chill out at lunchtime, discover some new women authors and enjoy the company. For booklovers and those new to reading and reading groups;  women only. For ages 16+. 1-2pm, Boardroom, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Please register via eventbrite here. For more information please call: 0141 550 2267 or email info@womenslibrary.org.uk. This Story Café group is supported by Edinburgh City Libraries in partnership with Glasgow Women’s Library.

Edinburgh Gay Men’s Book Group: an inclusive group where you can meet new people and read/discuss interesting books. 7-9pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information please contact the group at info@gaybookgroup.co.uk.

Tovey Memorial Prize Competition: the Tovey Memorial Prize is awarded annually to the University of Edinburgh Music student who shows the greatest promise in composition or performance. 2pm, Reid Concert Hall, Bristo Square. Free admission.

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. Today’s film is Being Good/Kimi wa iiko (15) (In Japanese with English subtitles): Tasuku (Kengo Kora) is a new primary school teacher, struggling to deal with his class, who is constantly on the receiving end of concerns from the children’s overly-protective parents.  Despite feeling out of his depth, when he discovers that one of his pupils is being abused by their parents, he decides that he must do something to help. Meanwhile in the same city, Masami (Machiko Ono), a woman who appears to be a good mother, can’t help lashing out at her own child. Director Mipo O (The Light Shines Only There) returns to this year’s programme with her latest film, a heart-wrenching portrayal of isolated people caught in downward spirals, but which also shows how simple acts of kindness can blossom and make a difference in someone’s life. This film was awarded the NETPAC Jury Prize at the 37th Moscow International Film Festival. 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film in this series is The Elegant Life of Mr Everyman (12A) on Thursday 25th February.

The Edinburgh Bookshop in conversation with New York Times Bestseller Pierce Brown. The author of the Red Rising trilogy, the film rights to which have already been bought by Universal, will be chatting about his writing and the up-and-coming film, and signing books afterwards. Books will be available to buy or you can bring your own for signing. For ages 13+. 6.30-8.30pm, The Edinburgh Academy, 42 Henderson Row. Free but booking is required and may be made via eventbrite here or by calling the shop on 0131 447 1917.

Adventures in Audacious Songwriting: A Women’s Songwriting Workshop. Open to all women, whether or not you have ever sung or written anything before – have a bit of a blether, find some of our common experiences and write something together, or share stories and write individually. We never know what might happen until we begin! Bring your self. That’s all we need to write and share some audacious women’s stories in song! Facilitated by local radical songwriter and singer, Penny Stone. Please note this workshop is for women only. 10.30am-12.30pm, City Art Centre, Market Street. Free but registration is required and may be made via eventbrite here. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Writers Inc – #artcore Young Writers Group: Ioannis Tsirkas.  The published poet and film scholar will talk about literature, film, philosophy, and their interesting interrelations. Plus – bring your work and get some expert feedback. For ages 13-25. 6pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road.  For more information please contact #artcore on 0131 555 4604 or ask in the library.

Mindful Wednesdays: a new bi-weekly meet up group hosted by Sofi’s Amy Fowler. Start your year with a fresh head and a positive attitude; mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. We may not always have full control over our lives, but with mindfulness we can work with our minds and bodies, learning how to live with more appreciation and less anxiety. 7.30pm, Sofi’s Bar, Henderson Street.

LGBT Exchange: Meet Up. A new monthly meet up for those looking to connect with a like-minded community and meet new people. Whether you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, pan, poly or none or several of the above, the organisers would love to see you there.  Exchange is a space where people are encouraged to share their thoughts, suggestions for things to do and ideas for how to get involved in other relevant projects or groups.  ‘We strive to make the evening a safe space where we do not make assumptions about others and everyone has the opportunity to contribute’. 7.30-9.30pm, The Regent Bar, 2 Montrose Terrace. Free. For more information please contact admin@lgbthealth.org.uk or visit www.meetup.com/exchangelgbt.

Breaking The Mould: Edinburgh. A display about some of the women (and a few who didn’t make it) featured in the recently published WEA Scotland book Breaking the Mould: Edinburgh – Researching and Celebrating 100 years of Women’s History in Social and Political Activism since the beginning of WWI .  A celebration of socially and politically active women, some even audacious, who were involved in making some of the radical changes in society which took place during the 100 years from the beginning of WWI. Copies of the book will be available – come along and read more about these fascinating women. 10am-8pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am-5pm Thursday to Saturday, Scottish and Edinburgh Reference Room, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Ends 29th February 2016. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Audacious is as audacious does: with Shona Robison MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Wellbeing and Sport, Kezia Dugdale MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Leeann Dempster, Chief Executive Hibernian FC and Yasmin Sulaiman, Senior Engineer with Amey (Forth Road Bridge repairs)…..an audacious conversation with prominent women in public life to hear about the influences that have made them the audacious women they are today. 6-7.30pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Free but registration is required and may be made via eventbrite here. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Alex Danchev: On Good and the Evil and the Grey Zone. How can works of the imagination help us to understand good and evil in the modern world? In this new collection of essays, author and Professor of International Relations at the University of St Andrews Alex Danchev puts art to work in the service of political and ethical inquiry. He takes inspiration from Seamus Heaney’s dictum: ‘the imaginative transformation of human life is the means by which we can most truly grasp and comprehend it’. This is a book of blasphemers, world menders, troublemakers, torturers and turbulent priests of every persuasion. In this talk he will focus on the idea of the art and the artist as ‘moral witness’ – the crucial moral witness of our troubled times. The presentation will be illustrated by photographs by Chloe Dewe Mathews from the series Shot at Dawn. 6.30pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets may be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8222, emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk or via eventbrite here.

Village Pub Theatre: LGBT Innovators. To celebrate LGBT History Month, Village Pub Theatre is taking over the Traverse Bar Café for two nights with short plays under the theme of ‘LGBT Innovators’. Tonight: six short plays responding to the theme LGBT Innovators from Ellie Stewart, Jonathan Holt, Deb Jones, Sophie Good, Louise E Knowles and Sylvia Dow, directed by Caitlin Skinner, with Special Guest Host Miss Annabelle Sings from Dive Cabaret, followed by a celebratory LGBT Innovators after-show party with DJ. For ages 14+. 7.30pm, Traverse Theatre, Cambridge Street. Tickets cost £6.50 and may be obtained from the Box office on 0131 228 1404 or via Hub Tickets here. Village Pub Theatre is an evolving community-led theatre project based at The Village, South Fort Street Leith.

THURSDAY 25TH FEBRUARY 2016

Picture Hooks Lecture: Illustrating Books for Children. A leading literary commentator, writer, critic and broadcaster, Nicolette Jones has been the Children’s Book Reviewer of The Sunday Times for more than two decades, and in 2012 was shortlisted for the Eleanor Farjeon Award for distinguished service to the world of children’s books. She will give a keynote speech on children’s book illustration to celebrate the 2015/16 Picture Hooks exhibition. 5-6pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre. Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Rannagan na chloinne: Seinn comhla rinn! Gaelic Rhymetime! Come and enjoy Gaelic songs and rhymes at these special Seinn sessions. 10.30am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. Free: all welcome. The next sessions will be at Leith Library on 27th February and at Blackhall Library on 10th March – please contact libraries for times.

Picturehouses Big Scream: exclusively for babies under the age of twelve months and their parents and carers. Today’s film is Freeheld (12A), starring Julianne Moore, Ellen Page and Michael Shannon. Director: Peter Sollett.  10.30am, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets are at usual matinée prices: babies admitted free.

Mayfield Salisbury Thursday Club: a weekly programme of music, visual presentations, films, talks and demonstrations. Although mainly for retired people, visitors of any age are always welcome. This week David Mieres talks about The Seagull Trust, a charity offering free cruises on Scotland’s canals for people with special needs. 2-4pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 1a Mayfield Road. Annual membership costs £4 per year and 50p a week is charged for tea; new members are most welcome, but you don’t have to be a member to come along. For more information please contact Florence Smith on 0131 663 1234.

The World is My Country: a participatory celebration, in stories and pictures, of the people and movements that opposed the First World War. Featuring disobedient soldiers, feminist peace initiatives, a Maori princess, a famous Cambridge philosopher and the striking graphic art of Emily Johns. Organised in collaboration with the Edinburgh Peace and Justice Centre. Launch tonight at 6pm with Emily Johns and Gabriel Carlyle, then 10am-6pm, Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays, and please note the Centre’s exhibition space is occasionally not accessible to the public because of a private function booking. Please call ahead to check.), Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Part of the Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Festival.

Ecumenical Friends Edinburgh: a group of men and women from various denominations who meet on Thursdays from September to March each year. They bring their own packed lunches and share a time of fellowship together, after which there is a speaker; over the months they cover a wide variety of topics. Meetings are open to anyone who wishes to come and it isn’t necessary to come every week. For a copy of the programme contact katylaidlaw@talktalk.net. 12.30-2pm, St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street.

Greyfriars at 12: George Watson’s College Caritas Strings. The Senior String Orchestra will play Arvo Pärt Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten, GF Handel Concerto Grosso Op 6 No 4, WA Mozart (arr Hoffman) Amadeus! from Symphony No 25, E Elgar ‘Allegro Piacevole‘ from the Serenade for String Orchestra  and A Paizzola (arr Kazik) Libertango. 12 noon, Greyfriars Kirk, 1 Greyfriars Walk.

Shoreline of Infinity Presents Event Horizon 5. Edinburgh’s monthly evening of sci-fi entertainment, with poetry from Aileen Ballanytne, short stories by Lynsey May, live music from Atzi Muramatsu and reading from Pippa Goldschmidt – plus comics, art, chat, raffle prizes and more! 7.30pm, Deadhead Comics, West Nicolson Street. Free entry, all welcome! Shoreline of Infinity is a new sci-fi magazine from Scotland.

Elizabeth Soutar Bookbinding Awards: the awards, initiated by NLS in 1993, aim to encourage the practice and development of creative and craft binding skills. This international competition is open to bookbinders across Europe, and the winning entries will join the Library’s collection of fine bindings. The judges look for a best creative and a best craft binding. Winners of the awards will be announced at tonight’s ceremony and all entries will be on display. 6pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Free but booking is required and may be made by calling 0131 623 3734 or via eventbrite here.

LGBT Language Cafe: a safe, sociable and supportive space for LGBT people whose first language is not English. Improve your spoken English and your confidence and socialise with other LGBT people; facilitators Sophie and Clare will provide fun and inclusive ways to help you practice speaking English, build your vocabulary and find out more about the LGBT community in Edinburgh. 6.30-8.30pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information please contact Jules Stapleton Barnes on 0131 523 1104 or email jules@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Bold Daughters – Women, Girls and Goddesses at the Threshold of Transformation. Do they take that first step into the kingdom for the fairies? Do they jump from the glass mountain into the dead sea? Are they pushed through the forbidden door into the storm that lies beyond? Storyteller/artist Alice Fernbank brings you folktales of daughters who engage their wit and wisdom and do what needs to be done for a deeper, freer, fuller and happier life. In the company of her own artwork and some musical friends, journey with Alice through burning forests, quaking bogs, crashing oceans and into the realms of the Gods. 7.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8/£6 and may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 556 9579 or online here. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Nothing Ever Happens Here Presents….Hector Bizerk + Bossy Love: Hector Bizerk’s live show is something of a cultural phenomenon, combining front-man Louie’s razor sharp poetry with the incredible tribal rhythms of Audrey Tait to create a crescendo of thought-provoking music. The live show has additional elements of live art, b-boying and improvisation and is a celebration of modern hip-hop culture with a very Scottish twist. Bossy Love are singer/mechanical scientist Amandah and ex-Dananananaykroyd sticksman/BBQ restaurateur John Baillie Jnr, whose debut mixtape Holidates was released late last year and ‘feels like a journey through electronic music from 1981 right up to now’; it’s a collection of RnB, impromptu raps, found-sound, caramel sweet vocal hooks and hardcore hip hop beats. Over 18s only. 8pm-late, Dissection Room, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £10 and are available from the Box Office on 0131 560 1580 or online here.

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. Today’s film is The Elegant Life of Mr Everyman/Eburiman shi no yuga na seikatsu (12A) (In Japanese with English subtitles): Eburi is a lowly salaryman who drunkenly promises two magazine editors that he will write them a masterpiece. Once sober, Eburi commits himself to his promise and after deliberating over what to write about, he decides to write a novella using himself, his middle class life and his experiences as the theme. Based on the popular magazine series by Hitomi Yamaguchi and falling within the framework of Toho’s popular genre of ‘Salaryman Comedies’, this classic film depicts the life of Eburi (played by Keiju Kobayashi in a career-defining role), showing his mixed feelings about Japan’s social and economic outcome of the Second World War. Featuring animation and audacious editing, this idiosyncratic and inventive film is a timeless treatment of life in postwar Japan. 8.40pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film in this series is A Japanese Tragedy (15) on Friday 26th February.

FRIDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2016

In Focus: The Feast of Herod by Peter Paul Rubens. The dramatic subject, dynamic composition, sumptuous colour and bold brushwork of Rubens’ large canvas present a remarkable visual feast, the fruits of a long, prolific and internationally successful career. Art historian Ailsa Turner discusses the painting in the context of preferences exercised by both painter and possible patron. 12.45-1.15pm, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Southside Creative Writing Group: now in its eighth successful year, the group continues to use innovative starting points for new writing, offer constructive feedback on works in progress and experiment with particular themes and styles over a number of weeks. There may also be opportunities to use various city locations and institutions for inspiration, and to read in public. New members – of any level of experience or confidence – always welcome. 10am-12 noon, Southside Community Centre, Nicolson Street. £2 per session + membership of the Centre (£5 per year). For more information please contact the Centre on 0131 667 0484.

Gallery Social: Modern Scottish Women. A relaxed and informal guided tour, with refreshments, for anyone affected by dementia and their relatives, friends and supporters. 10.30am-12 noon, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art TWO, Belford Road. Free but booking is required and may be made by contacting the Information Desk on 0131 624 6560.

Lunchtime Concert: Emma Lloyd (violin), Julia Lungu (viola) and Justyna Jablonska (cello) play Webern Trio Op 20, Schubert Trio in Bb D 471 and Schnittke Trio. 1.10pm, Playfair Library Hall, University of Edinburgh, Old College, South Bridge. Free admission. Part of the Concerts at the University Spring – Summer 2016 series.

Fuora Dance Project: an emerging project-based dance company set up by two professional freelance dance-artists, Federica Esposito and Giulia Montalbano, who are based in Dundee. The principal feature of the project’s repertoire is the focus on cultures and traditions from different parts of the world. Fuora are developing their work at NEA this week, and would love children and families to come to their sharing this afternoon. 1.45pm, North Edinburgh Arts, Pennywell Court. Free but booking is required and may be made in person at NEA or by calling 0131 315 2151.

Bonnie Fechters: Songs and Stories of Hope and Resistance. ‘In the 1970s there was a wee bit of a stooshie here in Scotland – I understand it reached other parts of the world, too – it was called the Women’s Liberation Movement…’  Inspiring stories and songs about women’s activism and struggle, from Edinburgh’s Magdalene to the Vietnam war, the medieval witch-killings to the Zero Tolerance campaign. Threaded through with names you may never have heard of but who were there and made a difference. 7.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8/£6 and may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 556 9579 or online here. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

LGBT Women’s Wellbeing Group: an inclusive and informal group that offers the chance to meet other LGBT women in a relaxed environment for chat, information and activities promoting health and wellbeing.  The group is open to all LGBT women and welcomes transgender people who primarily identify as women. Today: ‘Love me’  – February might be the month of St Valentine ’s Day, but how often do we make the time to reward ourselves with some relaxation? The session will be full of tasters showing how we can inexpensively and regularly offer ourselves some self-care. 5.30-8.30pm, free. For details of venue and to stay up to date with the group contact Alison on alison@lgbthealth.org.uk to be added to the group’s email reminder list.

Guid Crack: Gothic Fairy Tales. Amanda Edmiston weaves dark, dreamy and often humorous Gothic fairy tales at Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling night. Her original stories blend plant-lore, legends and literature with traditional elements. 7.30-9.30pm, Circus Café, 8 St Mary’s Street (please note new venue). Donation of £5/£4 requested. Accompanied young adults welcome.

CinemaAttic: Drag the past out. Spanish & Latin American short-film nights. A powerful curated selection of short films, all with English subtitles, with networking breaks for the enjoyment of both the Ibero-American community and cinema lovers alike. This month’s theme is love partners – dealing with the past; a bunch of stories in which couples enter into profound crises when the past turn up in their present lives. Coping with unsettled past experiences, learning to forgive, leave behind. Mexico and Puerto Rico contribute to this February programme. 8pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £5 and are available from the Box Office on 0131 560 1580 or online here.

Dalriada Wine Tasting: an informative and delicious evening of wine, hosted by a knowlegeable expert who will guide you through the chosen varieties. 7.30pm, Dalriada, 77 The Promenade, Portobello. Tickets cost £10 and are available from the bar.

Present Love (12A): A Collection of Joyous LGBTI Shorts. The collaborative intention to celebrate LGBT History Month between Filmhouse, LGBT Youth Scotland and the University of Edinburgh provided the impetus for the creativity of four industrious students to curate this lovingly sculptured programme, with a clear, queer aim to challenge one-dimensional depictions of the LGBTI community, on-screen, worldwide. ‘After observing a harmful, growing trend of tragic LGBTI narratives that seek to illustrate our lives and relationships within confines where joy may not, and cannot, be sustained, we decided to take action, through the universal powerful language of the moving image. As such, we present you with a series of charming short films and informative interviews with prominent LGBTI figures, that aim to inspire, encourage and support the rights of the LGBTI community’. Today’s films are Christine Choe’s The Queen, Anna Rodgers’ Hold On Tight, Drew Van Steenburgen’s Alone with People, Sergio Di Bitetto’s Plugin and Elizabeth Rohrbaugh’s Dylan. 3.45pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. Also showing at 3.45pm on Saturday 27th February. Image from Alone with People.

Adventure Film Festival: 11 of the world’s most exciting action and adventure documentary films at 30 locations nationwide. Experience adventure as it happens around the globe in this three night programme, from being sling shot over the cliffs of Norway, riding horseback through the extreme terrain of Patagonia and jumping out of planes with the oldest female skydiver. Tonight’s film is Chasing Shadows: Warren Miller Entertainment’s 66th annual winter sports film is a celebration of why we commit ourselves every winter to a passion that’s guaranteed to melt away every spring. Follow the world’s biggest names in skiing and snowboarding on a breathtaking cinematic journey as they push toward the edge, where the mountain’s shadow cast below leads the way. Watch JT Holmes, Seth Wescott, Caroline Gleich, Steven Nyman, Marcus Caston and more as they pursue turns on the mountains of dreams: Chamonix, Alaska’s Chugach, the Chilean Andes, Utah’s Wasatch and the mightiest range of them all: the Himalayas. 8.45pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next programme in the Festival includes The Last Explorers of the Rio Santa Cruz (PG) and is showing on 3rd March.

Bang A (Jazz) Drum for Schools in Africa: this month The Jazz Romantics’ (Bev Wright (vocals), Les Reid (sax), Brian McGrail (guitar), Gugi Johnny Gugalski (bass) and Tony Irvine (banging a drum, or two). club night will be helping to raise funds for Kipawa, a small local charity that supports Mukuyu School in Africa. 8-11pm, The Village, 16 South Fort Street, Leith. Tickets are £3, with all proceeds going to the charity – so go along and support this great cause!

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. Today’s film is A Japanese Tragedy/Nihon no Higeki (15) (In Japanese with English subtitles): having lost her husband in the war, Haruko (Yuko Mochizuki) struggles to bring up her ungrateful materialistic-minded son and daughter. Despite her countless sacrifices, including selling her land and even her body, her now grown-up children reject their mother, driving her to despair. Directed by Keisuke Kinoshita, considered to be one of the most important directors of the Golden Age of Japanese cinema in the 1950s, this film is a bleak portrait of post war Japan through the story of a mother’s self-sacrifice. Through masterfully interspersing his film with verité-styled flashbacks and newsreel footage, Kinoshita creates an insightful account of the personal toll of war and the slow, painful process of recovery. 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film in this series is Uzumasa Limelight (12A) on Saturday 27th February.

Ed Aczel: The Random Flapping of a Butterfly’s Wings. ‘Britain’s greatest living anti-comedian’ (Guardian) returns to the road for his second nationwide stand-up tour, as he tries once again to nail down the nature of existence. Aczel is known for not following the rules of stand-up comedy and he aims to use his show, with help of the Chaos Theory, to change the world once and for all – although it may turn out to be too complicated. He asks whether you can have your cake and eat it – ie seek to change human consciousness forever and keep your weekends free. Ed includes a couple of amusingly circular stories about his life, which thankfully don’t last long. Bringing Maths, History and Improv to life for beginners, he explores his own inner psyche with a section analysing his dreams – and then tries not to get too paranoid. 7.30pm, Upstairs at Assembly Roxy, Roxburgh Place. Tickets cost £12/£10 and may be purchased here.

SATURDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2016

Audacious Women & Girls Do Graffiti. Do you have a message you want to share with the world? What better way to do it than with graffiti?! This graffiti workshop is open to women and girls of all ages who have ever wanted to try or learn graffiti Art. A graffiti artist will facilitate the workshop, which will take place outside on the community walls, New Street, – so wrap up warmly! Only 12 spaces so get in quick… 10.30am-12.30pm,  City Art Centre, Market Street. Free but booking is essential and may be made by emailing cat.young@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk . Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

NMS Young Demonstrators – Meet us! Join Us! Are you creative, fun, up for a challenge and aged 14-22? Do you want to have a say in what the National Museum does for young people? Come and meet the Young Demonstrators team and chat to them about getting involved. The team is looking for new members – could it be YOU? Come along and find out who the current members are and what they do.; share your views on what the museum can do for young people and chat about getting involved. The Young Demonstrators get to meet museum staff, plan events and activities in the museum, and lots more… all while having fun and learning skills which look great on the CV. The team meets once every two weeks on a Monday 4-6pm at the museum. 1-4pm, Grand Gallery, Level One, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Drop-in; no booking required; everyone aged 14-22 welcome!

St Bride’s Family Cinema: see your favourite films for free! Adventure, excitement, fun and laughs – everyone welcome. Juice and choc ices are available to purchase in the interval at 50p each. This week’s film is Shrek Forever After (U). Please note that all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 10.30am-12.30pm (includes interval), St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Next week’s film is Robin Hood (U).

Simpsons Special Saturday: a Family Fun Day, raising vital funds for Simpsons Special Care Babies. Grateful parents Gemma and Scott Dutton have been working closely with Babies and Bumps Café to organise a range of brilliant activities for all ages! Bambino Beats, Enjoy-a-Ball, a soft play bus and Bonnie Bairns Photography will all be running sessions, there’ll be a pamper room for Mummies and their friends – take some time to relax after a delicious afternoon tea with family and friends. Plus a silent auction with fantastic items to bid for – from a £100 spa voucher to a signed Edinburgh rugby shirt and a block of children’s dance lessons – and a raffle with great prizes. Please help support this amazing charity who provide resources and equipment to the Neonatal Unit at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. 1-4pm, Eric Liddell Centre, 15 Morningside Road. Tickets are available from eventbrite here.

Artists’ BookMarket: the gallery’s annual celebration of artists’ books and artist-led publishing. Plenty of home-grown talent and new participants from further afield than ever before. Browse the stalls of work available for sale from this growing area of art practice and enjoy a weekend long programme of talks and workshops and even a silent book disco. 11am-6pm, The Fruitmarket Gallery, Market Street. Also open 12 noon-5pm on Sunday 28th February.

Minecraft Story Mode: this interactive adventure will be part of a 4 week group ‘let’s play’ starting today. For ages 9+. 11am, Morningside Library, Morningside Road. Places are limited and booking is essential: ask library staff for details or call them on 0131 529 5654.

Juniper Green Farmers’ Market: stalls with an extensive range of products, including breads, cakes, fruit, vegetables, pies, preserves, coffee, Fair Trade goods, hot snacks and drinks. The market also offers local residents the chance to meet with their local councillors, community councillors, MP and MSP. 9am-1pm, Juniper Green Village Hall, 1A Juniper Park Road. Organised by Juniper Green Community Council.

The Friends of Newington Cemetery Snowdrop Walks: volunteers  will show visitors the best places to find snowdrops and other spring flowers, and provide information on the work the Friends group (which was set up by Grange/Prestonfield Community Council) is doing to restore the cemetery to its former glory. Originally called the Newington Necropolis when it opened in 1846, the cemetery is an example of the post-1830s garden cemeteries movement, and remains a peaceful 14 acre green haven in the midst of an urban area. In 1994, partly because of its overgrown and neglected state, the cemetery was compulsorily purchased by Edinburgh City Council. There are many interesting graves of local citizens and also a War Memorial, and 156 individual war graves (142 from the First World War and 14 from the Second World War), maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The north-west part is set aside as a wildlife area. Meet at the cemetery gates 10am-12 noon, Newington Cemetery, 222b Dalkeith Road. For more information please visit the Friends’ website here. Also available 2-4pm Sunday 28th February. Images of cemetery: Friends of Newington Cemetery.

Capital Sci-Fi Con: Edinburgh’s first charity pop culture comic & movie convention for fans by fans! Guests from your favourite movies, artists and writers from your favourite comics, costume groups portraying your favourite characters from the best costuming groups from all over the UK and cars from films!  Plus Tardis, Daleks, Jabba the Hutt, Speeder Bike, Owls of Harry Potter, Iron Man Display Pod, Thor’s Hammer, Art Tables, How to Draw with Tanya Roberts, Retro Gaming, Gerry Anderson Display, Star Wars Edinburgh Invasion Art Exhibit, traders selling collectibles/art/clothing and much much more, photo opportunities in the photography suite hosted by the very talented Alasdair Watson, chances to listen to stage talks from guests (including Rony Bridges, a First Order Admiral in the latest Star Wars movie The Force Awakens) over the weekend, and three cosplay/costume competitions. Tonight there is an optional paying event meal with the stars – a 3 course meal and a comedy show from Des O’Gorman, with an acoustic musical comedy set from Rik Caranza. All profits from the event will be going to CHAS (Children’s Hospice Association Scotland). 10.30am-5pm, Meadowbank Sports Centre, London Road EH7 6AE. Day tickets cost £10/£5 (children under 5 free), weekend passes £18/£8; advance booking has now closed, tickets available on the door (sta). Also 10.30am-5pm on Sunday 28th February.

Youth Performance Poetry Workshop: Anita Govan, performance poet and Stirling Makar, will be delivering two performance poetry workshops for those aged 10-14. There will also be opportunities to be involved in a national poetry slam later in the year! 2-4pm, South Queensferry Library, Shore Road. To book a place Facebook message the library here, phone 0131 529 5576, email southqueensferry.library@edinburgh.gov.uk or just pop in to the library and speak to staff in person. The second workshop will take place on Saturday 5th March.

Out of the Blue Flea Market: over 45 stalls full to bursting with clothes, jewellery, small furniture, music, books, bric-a-brac and much more. Once you’re done with your bargain hunting, stop in for coffee, cake or lunch at the Drill Hall Arts Café, which offers a delicious range of home-style cooking. 10am – 3pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street.

Zoo Arts Extra Beach Day: food, fire, sea, sky, sand and art! 12 noon-4.30pm (approx return), meet at North Edinburgh Arts, Pennywell Court. Booking is required and may be made in person at NEA, by calling 0131 315 2151 or e-mailing garden@northedinburgharts.co.uk. Children under 9 must be accompanied, and permission slips must also be completed – available from NEA, local schools and Muirhouse Library, Pennywell Court. All welcome, free, donations very welcome.

Edinburgh Bazaar – February: a monthly Malaysian food, car boot and charity sale. Get some ££s for your stuff, support a cause and dine on Malaysian delicacies at the Edinburgh Bazaar; delicious home cooked meals, stalls selling products, and bargains at the carboot sales stalls. If you would like to book a table (£15 – share with a friend and split the cost!) contact the organisers for more details. 12 noon-2.30pm, Southside Community Centre, Nicolson Street.

‘A Better Life Than I Have Now’: Panel Discussion. Can art galleries provide a space for young people to represent the challenging aspects of their lives in relation to issues of self-confidence, self-image and the culture of success? Join sociologist Sarah Wilson (University of Stirling) and Kay Tisdall (Centre for Children and Families, University of Edinburgh), alongside the Outreach Team for this panel discussion, focusing on the artworks from this exhibition created by young Scots. 2-3pm Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed. Image: The Untitled: Alloa Participants Face the Future, 2015.

Introduction to Breakdancing! Ever felt like twirling, whirling and spinning? Don’t break up, break out! Breakdance!! Join Lotte Ninja and Emma Ready from The State for a fun and energetic breakdance workshop. No experience necessary; come along and learn some moves. Wear comfortable clothes and bring plenty of water. 1.30-3pm, City Art Centre, Market Street. Free but booking is essential and may be made via eventbrite here. This event is part of the Audacious Women Festival and is for women only.

National Gallery Highlight Tours: an introduction to and tour of the National Gallery’s permanent collection, focusing on key paintings. 2-2.45pm or 3-3.45pm, Scottish National Gallery (meet in the main entrance), The Mound. Free and unticketed. Also at same times on Sunday 28th February.

British Art Shows: free discussion-led tours of the British Art Show. Focus and content will change weekly. 2-2.30pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE (meet at the main entrance), Belford Road. No booking required. Image: Rachel Maclean Feed Me 2015 − courtesy of the artist and Film and Video Umbrella, © Rachel Maclean, 2015.

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. Today’s films are (1) At 1pm, Uzumasa Limelight (12A) (In Japanese with English subtitles): an award-wining film telling the admirable story of Seiichi, a ‘kirareyaku’ actor whose main job in samurai movies is simply to be killed-off by the lead star. When the studio where Seiichi works decides to discontinue its samurai epics, Seiichi finds himself at a loss – but hope arrives in the form of a young woman named Satsuki, who soon becomes his disciple; (2) At 6pm, Cheers From Heaven/Tengoku kara no eru (PG): when ‘bento’ (lunch box) shop owner Hikaru (Hiroshi Abe) learns that a group of local high school students have no place to practice music, he decides to build a studio beneath his store allowing them to play there for free. The students begin to grow fond of Hikaru but still know little of the terminal illness which Hikaru has been battling and keeping secret from his family and friends. Set in the coastal town of Motobu-cho, Okinawa, this film depicts the incredible true story of Hikaru Nakasone, a man who devoted the last days of his life to helping youngsters who had nowhere to go. Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The final films in this series are I’ll Give It My All…Tomorrow/Ore wa mada honki dashite nai dake (PG) and Tale of a Butcher Shop/Aru Seinikuten no Hanashi (12A) on Sunday 28th February.

Scots Music Group Ceilidh with The Portobello Ceilidh Band. One of Scotland’s longest established and best-loved ceilidh bands, The Portobello Ceilidh Band provides traditional ceilidh music with a dedicated dance-caller. Licensed bar; please note – only alcohol purchased from the bar may be consumed on the premises but water is available free of charge. 7.30-11.30pm (dancing from 8pm), St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Tickets cost £9/£7 in advance from SMG on 0131 0131 555 7668 or online here; £10 on the door (no concessions), subject to availability – advance booking recommended.

Audacious Women Evening: an opportunity for all who have taken part in related events in the festival to celebrate together, whether you’ve done something really daring or encouraged someone else to. There will be surprise performers and your comments and tales of daring will be collected and shared. Everyone is welcome. Hosted by Rosie Kane. 7.30pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £7/£5 and may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 556 9579 or online here. Part of the Audacious Women Festival.

Simple Gifts: Music from the 12th to the 20th Century. Annie Patch, Graham McDonald and friends present music from across the centuries in this delightful programme. Annie is a well known local singer whose repertoire includes jazz, classical and popular music; Graham is a highly respected pianist who will be known to many local people for his work in schools and with adult choirs. 7.30-9.30pm, Penicuik Community Arts Association, West Street Arts Centre, 4 West Street. Tickets cost £10/£8 (PCCA members) and may be purchased from the cafe at the Centre or on the door (sta).

‘Bye Bye, We Love You’: The Filmhouse pays tribute to The Thin White Duke; to Ziggy Stardust; to the mesmerising, transformative and unforgettable David Bowie. While his musicianship and iconic personas have left an incomparable legacy, his appearances on the big screen were sporadic, diverse and often quite astonishing. The Filmhouse staff have selected three of their favourite Bowie films; tonight: The Man Who Fell To Earth (18). An alien (Bowie) crash lands on Earth, seeking help for his drought-stricken planet. By securing patents to advanced technology, he becomes a fabulously wealthy industrialist. However, money and its attendant decadence ultimately exert a stronger gravitational pull. The otherworldly Bowie was perfectly cast as the space traveller, and the film further cemented director Nicolas Roeg’s status as one of the outstanding filmmakers of the 1970’s. 8.15pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online. The next film will be Labyrinth (U), showing on Monday 29th February. ‘Sit right down and await the gift of sound and vision…’

SUNDAY 28TH FEBRUARY 2016

Storytelling: Costumes and Disguise. Hear folktales all about costumes and disguises with storyteller and musician Marion Kenny. For ages 7+. 2pm or 3pm (45 minute sessions), Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

Filmhouse Junior: films for a younger audience. This week: My Neighbour Tortoro (U), a superbly animated children’s tale directed by Hayao Miyazaki, one of Japan’s most beloved animators. The story follows Satsuke and Mei, two young girls who find that their new country home is in a mysterious forest inhabited by a menagerie of mystical creatures named totoros. The eldest of these creatures becomes their friend, and, as their mother lies sick in the hospital, he takes the sisters on a magical adventure while also helping them to understand the realities of life. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4 per person, big or small.

Leith Conversation Cafés: friendly, respectful and engaging conversation sessions where people of different cultures can learn from each other, gain knowledge of their local area, practice their English and feel included. They are a chance for people to share stories, experiences and passions with others they might not normally meet, over a friendly cup of something warm. Conversation topics for each session are decided about a week in advance by volunteer hosts with input from guests and the conversations are structured so that everyone has a chance to speak and be heard, however shy or confident they feel and no matter how many words of English they know. 4pm today and every Sunday, Sketchy Beats Café, 208 Great Junction Street. You can find more details here. Please see Monday’s Listings for the other two Conversation Cafés this week.

IKIRU: The Highs & Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema. The final films in this series are (1) At 3.40pm, I’ll Give It My All…Tomorrow/Ore wa mada honki dashite nai dake (PG) (In Japanese with English subtitles): fed-up forty-something Shizuo (Shinichi Tsutsumi) quits his secure job to become a full-time slacker, embarking on a reluctant pursuit to follow his true dreams. Despite now spending most of his time hanging around the house in his underwear playing video games and working part-time at a fast-food restaurant, Shizuo eventually comes to realise his true passion in life: manga! Without much preparation or any skill, Shizuo starts working on his masterpiece. Adapted from Shunju Aono’s popular manga series, this comedy by Yuichi Fukuda follows the mid-life crisis of a loveable lazybones trying to find his calling; (2) At 6pm, Tale of a Butcher Shop/Aru Seinikuten no Hanashi (12A): an award-winning documentary about the Kitades and their family-run butcher shop in Kaizuka City (outside Osaka), where they have been raising and slaughtering cattle and selling their meat in their small shop for over 100 years. Aya Hanabusa’s touching documentary follows the family upon their decision to shut down their long-running slaughterhouse and looks at how the three butcher siblings have devoted their lives to the trade. Containing unflinching scenes of animal slaughter, the film reveals the intricate, old-fashioned and reverential procedures the family follow in processing the meat. The seventh generation of their family’s business, the Kitades are descendants of the Buraku people, a social minority in Japan who are still subject to discrimination today; Hanabusa’s film touches upon the family’s continuing struggle to make their living despite the persistence of ancient prejudices. Warning: some scenes that show the slaughtering process may be disturbing for viewers. Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online.

Me & T Monthly: a supportive space for people who have friends, family or partners who are trans*, non-binary or exploring their gender. An opportunity to discuss experiences, questions or concerns. 2-4pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. Please feel free to contact the group at me.and.t.edinburgh@gmail.com at any time for further information, or visit www.meandtscotland@wordpress.com.

The Baltic Film Society of Scotland: Four White Shirts (PG). The Society’s first event in Edinburgh is a showing of this Latvian cinematic classic in which protagonist Cēzars Kalniņs, lead singer in rock band The Optimists, faces difficulties after complaints to the authorities about his inappropriate lyrics. Directed by Rolands Kalniņš in 1967, the film offers a profound insight into the difficulties of life in an authoritarian regime, of restricted artistic freedom and a national culture under assault; it also examines the themes of intergenerational conflict. Four White Shirts was banned by the Soviet Latvian authorities until 1986, but by then the songs had already gained cult status, and a legendary music venue in Riga is named after the film. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session. 6pm Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £8/£6 and are available from the Box Office on 0131 560 1580 or online here.

St Giles’ At Six: Glenalmond College Music Scholars in Concert. Directed by Tim Ridley (Director of Music). 6pm, St Giles Cathedral, High Street. Free; retiring collection.

A much changed Hibs side cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Alloa Athletic at Easter Road this afternoon thanks to a Martin Boyle double and a Dan Carmichael strike just before half time.

Head Coach Alan Stubbs completely reshuffled his pack making seven changes to the starting XI that knocked Hearts out of the Scottish Cup on Tuesday night.

Only Mark Oxley, Liam Henderson, Paul Hanlon and Marvin Bartley retained their place in the team, with Liam Fontain, Dylan McGeouch, Boyle, James Keatings, Carmichael, Niklas Gunnarsson and Chris Dagnall coming into the side.

The players they replaced, with the exception of the suspended Lewis Stevenson all made the bench.

Given Alloa’s recent form which included a draw with Championship leaders Rangers last weekend, some questioned Stubbs’ decision to make so many changes but he was vindicated in the fourth minute when Boyle latched onto a superb Henderson pass before chipping the ball over Scott Gallacher’s head and slotting the ball into the empty net.

Steven Hetherington almost equalised a minute later but the striker was unable to control the cross which ended up in a relieved Oxley’s arms.

In the 16th minute the supporters of both teams took part in a minutes applause in memory of teenage Hibs’ fan Leon Rendle who sadly passed away on Thursday after a long battle with bone cancer.

Hibs dominated the remainder of the first half then added a deserved second just before the break. Keatings picked up the ball on the edge of the area and tried to make space for himself to shoot however instead he slipped a fantastic through ball into the path of Carmichael  and the winger calmly passed the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

Alloa started the second half brightly and created three good chances in the first ten minutes. Marvin Bartley did well to break up a two v one attack after Gunnarsson slipped then Michael Duffy ranclear of Fontaine before lobbing the ball over Oxley onto the top of the net. Hetherinton then fired a long range effort inches wide of the post.

Hibs soon regained their composure and John McGinn replaced McGeouch, receiving a standing ovation from the Hibs’ fans.

Keating then set up Dagnall with a deft touch however instead of shooting, the striker cut back inside and his tame effort was easily saved.

Hibs wrapped things up with 15 minutes remaining. Bartley did well to find man of the match Henderson who in turn found McGinn. The fans’ favourite slipped the ball to Dagnall and his shot fell to Boyle who side footed the ball into the net from 4 yards.

Bartley then left the field to another standing ovation from the fans who have taken the Englishman to their heart because of his hard working displays.

McGinn had the fans on their feet with a 60 yard run as Hibs looked to add to their tally but the game ended with a valuable three points remaining in the capital.

After the game Stubbs said: ” The most important thing was to get the three points and we have managed to do that. I’ve got a core of 19/20 players who could all play in the starting XI so I didn’t have any probems making the changes today. I trust all my players and know what they can do. We have to utilise the squad and chop and change when we have the opportunity.”

Keatings said: “The most important think was to get the win. It was good to get the three points and the boys who have came in did a good job. We’ve got a strong squad.”

Hibs, Oxley, Henderson, Hanlon, Fontaine, Bartley, McGeouch, Boyle, Keatings, Carmichael, Gunnarsson, Dagnall. Subs: Virtanen, Gray, McGinn, McGregor, Stokes, Thomson, Cummings.

Alloa Athletic: Gallacher, Hill, Hamilton, Marr, Duffy, O’Brien,  McManus, Layne,  Hetherington, Finnie, Megginson. Subs:  Crawford, McAusland,  Reintam, Holmes,, Ferns, Crawford, Caddis.

Referee Nick Walsh

Attendance 8765

Five second half tries and bonus point for Stew-Mel at Inverleith

Not for the first time this season were the sides at Inverleith welcomed by gale force winds whistling around the stand from the West, making play decidedly tricky in the latest round of the RBS National League’s First Division.

Peebles were the visitors this time around and the Borders’ side were facing an uphill – but down wind, in the first half – struggle to remain in the Division. Stew-Mel, on the other hand, were gradually climbing up the table after a fairly shaky start to the season.

The first half was mostly played in Stew-Mel’s half, with the visitors taking full advantage of the conditions to keep the home side pinned back. What they couldn’t take advantage of, however, was field position. They were inside Stew-Mel’s 22 and up near their goal line several times, but failed to capitalise, with mistakes and turn-overs frustrating the players, coaching staff and travelling support as they only lead 3-0 at the break following a seventh minute penalty from 10, Greg Raeburn.

Stew-Mel, for their part, showed brief flashes of attacking flair, with a break from No. 7, Hugh Lindsay, almost coming off as he charged through the lineout as everyone stood and watched, getting run down by the opposing scrum half, Donald Anderson, about 10 metres out.

The second half was to prove an entirely different affair…

A restart error by Peebles – that wind again – gave Stew-Mel front-foot ball and a gallop up the middle by Alexander Rappestad brought play deep into Peebles’ half. He was stripped of the ball, but a couple of minutes later, Stew-Mel had a close in penalty awarded which captain, Mike Hanning, kicked to touch. They then won the lineout and, in the ensuing melee, No. 4, Fraser Morrison, broke away to dive over for the try. Hanning then scored with the conversion to put Stew-Mel 7-3 ahead with less than five minutes of the second half played.

Just over two minutes of the match passed before the home side crossed the whitewash again. This time, a fine break from Hanning through the defence, gave his men space and the ball ended up with wing, Ciaran Whyte who had a clear run in under the posts. Hanning converted again and, suddenly, it was 14-3.

Peebles had a fair bit of possession over the next 10, or so, minutes, frustrating a Stew-Mel assault before launching upfield with their riposte, but once again they lost possession and Hanning cleared to touch, deep inside the visitors’ 22. With the wind playing its part in proceedings, the throw went somewhat awry and Stew-Mel set up a rolling maul which clawed its way to the line. Lindsay broke clear with the ball, but he was tackled short and the referee deemed the ball ‘held up’ and awarded a home five-metre scrum. With their pack performing well, Stew-Mel chose to push and pushed the opposition back to, and over, their line, leaving No. 8, Adam Howie the simple task of falling on the ball for the try. Hanning missed his kick, but the score had now stretched out to 19-3 with 25 minutes still to play.

It was to prove a fairly eventful 25 minutes as well. Eventful in the number of penalties and drooped ball were concerned, at least. Peebles did press the home defence a bit, but had to settle for a successful penalty from the boot of Anderson to make it a 19-6 score line, but the final couple of minutes were to prove catastrophic for the visitors.

With the pitch-side clock showing 0:00 – it, irritatingly doesn’t keep time with the referee’s watch – Peebles had just weathered and escaped from, another Stew-Mel attack on their line, but they lost possession inside their 22. From the ruck, the ball went out to centre, Ali Greig and, with just Donald Anderson – one of four Andersons in the starting 15, he piled over for the try, followed in by the despairing Callum Anderson, who failed to prevent the score. Once again, Hanning was on song and his successful kick made it a 26-6 score.

Game over? Not quite, as it turned out.

With the, presumably, referee’s watch ticking down to 80 minutes, Stew-Mel collected the restart and set off once again. This time, they were all but unopposed as the final passing move from Hanning to Jamie Berrisford set up Greig for a clear run in to the line for his second try in as many minutes. Hanning’s final attempt at the posts went wide, but at 31-6, it was a fine win for the Inverleith squad securing sixth place in the Div. 1 table and, probably, condemning Peebles to – at best – a relegation play-off spot at season’s end.

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

Dundee United 2 Heart of Midlothian 1

Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership, Saturday 20 February 2016 – Tannadice

Hearts failed to shake off the hangover from their William Hill Scottish Cup exit at Easter Road on Tuesday as the Maroons went down at bottom of the table side Dundee United at Tannadice on Saturday afternoon.

The visitors had Jordan McGhee ordered off in the first half and soon went behind to a goal just before half-time. Although Jamie Walker equalised for the ten men, United scored a late winner to secure their first league victory in a month.

Hearts Head Coach Robbie Neilson – a former United player – made five changes to the team that lost to Hibernian. Captain Alim Ozturk returned to the side as did Juwon Oshaniwa, Prince Buaben and Sam Nicholson while young Canadian forward Dario Zanatta was given a starting place for the first time replacing the injured Juanma. Callum Paterson was also injured while Miguel Pallardo, Igor Rossi and Arnaud Djoum had to be content with a place on the substitute’s bench.

The home side are cast adrift at the foot of the Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership table and were desperate for points, particularly after chairman Stephen Thompson’s diatribe at the players following their midweek defeat from Motherwell.

That said, there wasn’t much to report on in the opening stages. The nearest to a goal came in the 18^th minute when United’s Ofere forced Hearts keeper Neil Alexander into a brilliant save.

With half an hour gone the Hearts number one was again to his team’s rescue with another good save from Demel.

Hearts, meantime, were making little progress with United’s keeper Kawashima having one of his quieter afternoons. However, seven minutes before half-time, slack play from United’s Gunning set Sam Nicholson free on goal but his long range effort was wide.

Moments later, Hearts Jordan McGhee went for a fifty-fifty ball with Ofere. Referee Kevin Clancy didn’t like the Hearts defender’s challenge and, having already shown McGhee a yellow card for an earlier challenge, produced a second yellow card followed by a red – and Hearts were reduced to ten men.

An already bad afternoon for the Jambos then worsened when Demel headed home a corner three minutes before half-time to put the home side in front.

Half-time Dundee United 1 Hearts 0

Robbie Neilson may well have had words with his out of touch team at the break. If he did, it only took three minutes for this to have the desired effect. Substitute John Souttar  – barracked by the supporters of the team he played for until last month – found Jamie Walker and the forward blasted the ball past Kawashima to draw parity.

Dow had a chance midway through the second half when he beat Augustyn but the on-rushing Neil Alexander managed to put off the United man and the chance was gone.

Hearts opportunities were few and far between although Abiola Dauda had an effort which was stopped by Kawashima.

The game appeared to be petering out for a share of the points until three minutes from the end when Paton blasted home a spectacular volley from 25 yards past Alexander to wrap up all three points for the home side.

There was just time for United’s Anier to match Jordan McGhee by receiving a second yellow card but there was little time for Hearts to rescue a point.

So ended a week that Hearts fans will be glad to see the back of. No doubt the Robbie Neilson critics will be out in force on social media tonight – but the Maroons remain well clear in third place in the Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership.

Dundee United: Kawashima, Paton, Rankin, Ofere (Anier, 72′), Durnan, Gunning, Spittal, Fraser, Donaldson, Sinama-Pongolle (Dow, 59′), Demel (Dixon, 53′).

Hearts: Alexander, McGhee, Ozturk, Augustyn, Oshaniwa (Rossi, 46′), Buaben (Djoum, 75′), Cowie, Nicholson, Walker, Zanatta (Souttar, 43′), Dauda.

Referee: Kevin Clancy

Att: 8,031

Top Man: Jamie Walker

Hibs’ long serving defender Paul Hanlon (pictured)  insists that the players are concentrating on Sunday’s fixture against Alloa Athletic after a hectic few weeks which saw the Easter Road side overcome St Johnstone in front of a full house at Tynecastle in the League Cup semi-final then knock city rivals Hearts out of the Scottish Cup in front of a packed Easter Road. Sandwiched in between of course was a historic come back from two goals down to earn a replay against Hearts.

Head Coach Alan Stubbs’ and the players have always insisted that promotion from the Championship is the number one priority for the club so a win against the Wasps tomorrow is vital. Three points would move Hibs to within five points of leaders Rangers whom they have to play again Easter Road.

Last weekend, Rangers played first, dropping two points to Alloa however Hibs were unable to capitalise and were held to a draw against Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

This week the situations are reversed with Hibs kicking off at 1.30pm and Rangers travel to face Queen of the south at 4pm.

Speaking ahead of the game to Hibs TV, Hanlon said: “Everyone’s buzzing around the place. Tuesday was obviously a massive win for the home club in front of a full house at Easter Road was great but we are now just focussed on Alloa.

“The Alloa game is massive. At this stage of the season you can’t afford any slip ups if we are going to get promoted at the end of the season.  These games are important. We hope to put on a good performance, score a few goals and send the fans home happy again.

“The atmosphere on Tuesday was definitely the best at Easter Road and I have to say the three stands singing Sunshine on Leith at the end was great and every player that came back into the changing room mentioned it, saying ‘how good was that?’

“It really hit home with everyone in the squad about how big this club is and shows the potential that is here.

“The squad is full of confidence  and we just look forward to the next game because we are confident that we are going to win every game we are involved in right now. It’s a great feeling and we are excited about the remainder of the season.”

Photo by John Preece

The UK Government said earlier today it will hold a referendum on the nation’s membership of the EU on 23 June 2016.

This is the text of the announcement made by the Prime Minister, David Cameron:

“Last night in Brussels I set out Britain’s new settlement with the European Union.

This morning I have just chaired a meeting of the Cabinet in which I updated them on the special status we have secured for Britain.

And the Cabinet agreed that the government’s position will be to recommend that Britain remains in a reformed European Union.

Now I want to speak directly to the British people to explain why.

We are approaching one of the biggest decisions this country will face in our lifetimes.

Whether to remain in a reformed European Union – or to leave.

This choice goes to the heart of the kind of country we want to be. And the future that we want for our children.

This is about how we trade with neighbouring countries to create jobs, prosperity and financial security for our families.

And it is about how we co-operate to keep our people safe and our country strong. I know there will be many passionate arguments over the months ahead.

And individual Cabinet Ministers will have the freedom to campaign in a personal capacity as they wish.

But my responsibility as Prime Minister is to speak plainly about what I believe is right for our country. I do not love Brussels. I love Britain.

I am the first to say that there are still many ways in which Europe needs to improve – and that the task of reforming Europe does not end with yesterday’s agreement.

And I will never say that our country couldn’t survive outside Europe.

We are Great Britain – we can achieve great things.

That is not the question in this referendum.

The question is will we be safer, stronger and better off working together in a reformed Europe or out on our own. I believe we will be safer in a reformed Europe, because we can work with our European partners to fight cross border crime and terrorism.

I believe Britain will be stronger in a reformed Europe because we can play a leading role in one of the world’s largest organisations from within, helping to make the big decisions on trade and security that determine our future.

And I believe we will be better off in a reformed Europe because British businesses will have full access to the free trade single market, bringing jobs, investment and lower prices.

Let me be clear. Leaving Europe would threaten our economic and our national security.

Those who want to leave Europe cannot tell you if British businesses would be able to access Europe’s free trade single market or if working people’s jobs are safe or how much prices would rise.

All they are offering is risk at a time of uncertainty – a leap in the dark.

Our plan for Europe gives us the best of both worlds.

It underlines our special status through which families across Britain get all the benefits of being in the EU, including more jobs, lower prices and greater security.

But our special status also means we are out of the parts of Europe that don’t work for us.

So we will never join the Euro, we will never be part of Eurozone bailouts, never be part of the passport-free no borders area, or a European Army or an EU super-state.

Three years ago I committed to the British people that I would renegotiate our position in the European Union and hold an in-out referendum.

Now I am delivering that commitment.

You will decide.

And whatever your decision, I will do my best to deliver it.

On Monday I will commence the process set out under our Referendum Act.

And I will go to parliament and propose that the British people decide our future in Europe through an in-out referendum on Thursday 23rd June.

The choice is in your hands.

But my recommendation is clear.

I believe that Britain will be safer, stronger and better off in a reformed European Union.”

It strikes us that there will be many Edinburgh events already organised and which may clash with that date when you are asked to cast your vote on an in/out referendum, so here are some that we found.

Any others? Add them in the comments section below! Tell us what you will be up to.

Sunrise will be at 04.27 and the sun will set at 22.03, probably just after the polls close.

The Royal Highland Show at Ingliston opens on 23 June 2016 and runs till Sunday 26 June.

At the Bongo Club they will have their usual Thursday evening’s entertainment.

The 70th Edinburgh International Film Festival runs from 15-26 June 2016, making it the longest continuous running film festival in the world. The programme is yet to be announced but here is a flavour of what you could see last year.

This year the EIFF has announced that the focus will be on Finland. EIFF will show a programme of new Finnish feature films in collaboration with Finnish Film Foundation. These will be both fiction and documentaries.

EIFF Deputy Artistic Director, Diane Henderson said: “With its rich film heritage, Finland is a country that features often at EIFF and this year we’re very excited to present this appreciation of films from this fascinating country.  We are delighted to be working with the Finnish Film Foundation and are looking forward to welcoming our special guests from Finland to Edinburgh in June.”

At the National Museum of Scotland you can see a major exhibition called Celts: Art and Identity. The entrance fee is £10. This is a special exhibition organised by National Museum of Scotland and the British Museum in London.

At the Scottish National Portrait Gallery they are staging a large exhibition showing the transformation of Scotland from an independent nation ruled by Catholic monarchs in the 16th century to becoming part of a union with Protestant England at the end of the 17th century.

At the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two) they will just be bringing the Modern Scottish Women exhibition to an end. The exhibition includes work by women painters and sculptors. More information here.

On 23 June you will have a month to wait before Runrig appear at Edinburgh Castle on 23 July so you might still have time to get tickets for that or Simply Red or the Stereophonics at Edinburgh Castle earlier in July. Tickets here. 

The MGA Academy will present their show TEN at the King’s Theatre from 23 June to 25 June 2016. Musical theatre with world-class artists from the MGA Academy of Performing Arts. Have a listen to this:

And at the Dovecot Gallery there will be an exhibition of the Scottish Endarkenment exploring dark topics from international conflict to gender identity. This will also be part of the Edinburgh Art Festival which runs from 28 July to 28 August 2016.

But as a forerunner to the Edinburgh Art Festival Turner Prize nominee Ciara Phillips has been challenged to ‘dazzle’ a ship in Leith as part of the EAF’s commissions programme. This will mark the centenary of the Battle of Jutland, and the artist will ‘dazzle’ the MV Fingal. She will put her own stamp on the way that battle ships were decorated about a hundred years ago. This will be the fourth in the Dazzle Ship series. Others were commissioned in Liverpool.

The MV Fingal is a former Northern Lighthouse tender which is now owned by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust and will be a central element of the EAF 2016. It was Leith registered but worked out of Oban and then Stromness for three decades. The ship was sold to a private buyer in 2000 but sold to the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust in 2014. The event is supported by the Scottish Government and we understand there is a Dazzle it app!

Here in the capital we are very proud of all our festivals.

There really is something for everybody and now it is not just in August that you can find something to entertain you that is called a festival.

There is classical music, theatre, comedy, circus, sports and much, much more!

We hope this guide will help you plan your year whether you are a resident or a visitor. All of our Festival articles can be found here.

We run a set of previews for all the Fringe shows we can find out about and we publish reviews of those we actually go and see.

If you would like to be a reviewer for The Edinburgh Reporter then get in touch here.

Gather Festival

20 -28 February 2016

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This is an annual festival celebrating culture, community and global citizenship. It is a collaboration between University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh University Students Association.

Events are open to students, staff and members of the public.

Audacious Women Festival

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From 21 – 29 Feb 2016, the Audacious Women Festival marks its first ever edition, a chance to break down personal, political or institutional barriers, and to celebrate audacious women everywhere. The programme includes an array of events, exhibitions and workshops around Edinburgh, including four fantastic performances here at the Scottish Storytelling Centre.

Amongst the festival’s highlights is Bold Daughters on Thu 25 Feb, in which storyteller Alice Fernbank shares folktales of women, girls, goddesses and fairies, all engaging their wit and wisdom for a freer, fuller and happier life. Accompanied by musicians Nicky Haire and Charlie Menzies, Alice will take us on a journey through burning forests, crashing oceans and into the realms of the Gods – a must for anyone with an interest in folklore!

Edinburgh International Science Festival 2016

26 March 2016 to 10 April 2016

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Tradfest

27 April to 8 May 2016

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Tickets go on sale in the middle of March for the festival which comprises music, storytelling, drama and film. Inspired by May Day and Beltane, this is a showcase of Celtic arts and cultural traditions with a contemporary spin.

Imaginate Festival 

28 May 2016 to 5 June 2016

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Look at the What’s On page here.

The Edinburgh Festival of Cycling

9 June 2016 to 19 June 2016

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This is a great event which is still in its infancy, but which has been described as one of the country’s best cycling events by The Guardian and Total Women’s Cycling.

They have evenings of talks, films and then there is the Brompton fold up event (against the clock!).

It aims to show off all aspects of the bicycle, to challenge public perceptions of what it is and put Edinburgh in the forefront of cycling cities. There are rides and family events among the extensive programme.

We are usually favoured by advance notice of the events which form the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling (and we hope it will be the same this year…..)

Where did you cycle today? #ridewithaview #Scotland #brilliantmoments #edfoc #thisisdinburgh

A photo posted by Edinburgh Festival of Cycling (@edfoc) on Mar 13, 2015 at 2:38pm PDT

Edinburgh International Film Festival

15 June 2016 to 26 June 2016

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This year the film festival will present the UK Premiere of Steven Spielberg’s legendary E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL, accompanied by John Williams’ iconic score performed live by the RSNO on Saturday 25 June 2016 at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh.

Edinburgh International Magic Festival 1-8 July 2016

MagicFest brings the best of Scottish magic to Edinburgh for a whole week. Read more here. 

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Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival

15 July 2016 to 24 July 2016

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This year the Average White Band are set to make a special visit to Edinburgh on 24 July 2016 at the Festival Theatre.

Edinburgh Art Festival

28 July 2016 to 28 August 2016

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This year the focal point of the Edinburgh Art Festival will be in Leith where Ciara Philips a Turner Prize nominee will produce a Dazzle Ship – and yes this will be a whole floating ship! The MV Fingal is a former Northern Lighthouse vessel and she will be decorated by the artist.

The Edinburgh Reporter News – Dazzle Ship Scotland from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

The Edinburgh Art Festival is the biggest annual festival of visual art in the UK.

Where do I end and you begin from Edinburgh Art Festival on Vimeo.

Edinburgh International Festival

5 August 2016 to 29 August 2016

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Starring world renowned mezzo soprano Cecilia Bartoli in the title role, Patrice Caurier’s and Moshe Leiser’s staging of Norma will open the Festival’s opera programme with three performances at the Festival Theatre from 5 – 9 August 2016.

Tickets are already on sale, although there are probably no tickets left for Alan Cumming’s show at The Hub where he is in residence for three whole weeks singing his Sappy Songs. 

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

5 August 2016 to 29 August 2016

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There is nothing quite like the Fringe. You need stamina, a couple of quid in your pocket and an open mind. One minute you will have an hour of Tubular Bells performed by two young very fit musicians, and the next you will watch circus in a Spiegeltent, or simply be accosted by a guy in the street breathing fire. It is magic!

Here is a flavour from the Meet the Media event

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

5 August 2016 to 27 August 2016

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Billed as the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ it probably is. This is as remote from the Fringe as you could get. Where the Fringe is haphazard, the Tattoo, staged on the Castle Esplanade is timed to precision. You can set your clocks by the fireworks display at the end (usually about a minute or two from 10.40pm) and it is something everyone should try to go and see at least once. The performers and the theme change each year, so you could go every year if you can get your hands on a ticket.

We were delighted to be on the esplanade at the press preview show in 2015. Got a bit up close and personal with a piper!

The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

13 August 2016 to 29 August 2016

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This is the only time in the whole year that Charlotte Square Garden is open to the public, and they make very good use of it during the Book Festival!

There are so many authors, so many events and if you really find it impossible to choose then you can just hang out in the garden and get some tickets for sold-out events which become available at the last minute. Mingle with the famous and be inspired and entertained.

We love rubbing shoulders with authors and press in the Press Yurt (not just any old tent you know….) and we are sure you will find something to please you here no matter what age you are. The full programme is now available here.

Our photographer John Preece goes a bit mad with his camera:

Edinburgh Mela

27 August 2016 to 28 August 2016

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This is the biggest world music festival with dance, great food and entertainment for the family thrown in for good measure. Sadly afflicted by the weather in recent years they will be dancing to the Sun Gods to ensure a great time in 2016.

Edinburgh Mela 2015 from Edinburgh Mela on Vimeo.

Balerno Music Festival 23 September to 9 October 2016

The Pentland Hills come alive with the sound of music……

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Scottish International Storytelling Festival

21 October to 30 October 2016

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Based at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the High Street where they serve the best soup in Edinburgh in our opinion, this is a wonderful festival, and it is not in August!

Storytelling Festival 2015: Stories without Borders from SISF Storytelling Festival on Vimeo.

Samhuinn Fire Festival 31 October 2016

Here is what to expect! 

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Edinburgh’s Christmas

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A full six weeks of Christmasness from Light Night in November which opens the festival with a bang or two (we do like fireworks in Edinburgh!)  until the first few days of the New Year.

Only some of the highlights are: The Christmas Wheel in Princes Street Gardens, the Star Flyer next to the Scott Monument, the European Market, mulled wine, the Spiegeltent and for the first time last year the Virgin Money Street of Light which was so popular.

The Edinburgh Reporter News from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

From 30 January 2016

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This is the best place in the world you can be to see the old year out and usher in the new.

There is so much to do. Nothing closes. There are fireworks, dancing, music, a torchlight procession and free entertainment on New Year’s Day. Where would you rather be? Edinburgh has now become one of the iconic sights shown on TV screens around the world at New Year.

We can’t wait to welcome the world to @edhogmanay 2016/17 and share our #ScotSpirit Come join us! #blogmanaypic.twitter.com/LPBRhwZpWg

— Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (@edhogmanay) February 10, 2016

There are of course many other festivals held in Edinburgh throughout the year. If you feel we have missed an important one out then please send us your comments below or get in touch.

The family of a Livingston man who went missing exactly one week ago have today issued an appeal for information.

Matthew Elmer was last seen in Poplar Grove at around 6pm on Saturday, February 13th.

Since then the 23-year-old has not been in touch with friends or family and police are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

In a statement issued through Police Scotland Matthew’s family said: “We’re overwhelmed by the support shown by the local and wider community and are extremely grateful to everyone who has offered to help find Matthew.

“This has been a desperately difficult time for all of us and we want to find him as quickly as possible.

“We ask anyone who has information that might assist police with their ongoing search effort to please make contact immediately.

“Likewise, Matthew, if you’re reading this then we want to let know that you are not in trouble in any way but please let us know that you’re okay.”

Matthew is described as white with blue eyes and dark brown hair, which is short at the sides and sometimes styled on top. He is 5ft 8 inches tall of slim build. When last seen he was wearing a black jacket, black jogging trousers and white canvas laced up trainers. He also has black studs in both ears.

Inspector Myles Marshall from Livingston Police Station said: “Our search for Matthew continues however we are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare as more time passes.

“Anyone who has seen Matthew or has information relevant to our inquiries is asked to contact police immediately and can even do so anonymously should they wish.

“I also appeal to Matthew directly to contact us or a family member to let us know you are safe.”

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or speak to any officer.

Police are appealing for witnesses following vandalism to several cars in Musselburgh which took place around 5.40 a.m. this morning within the New Street area.

A group of three male youths were walking running on Eskside West towards Bridge Street when they began to damage numerous cars that were parked in the street.

In total 16 vehicles were targeted and local officers are now actively trying to trace the youths responsible.

One of the suspects is described as white and wearing a light grey hooded top with the hood up, however at this time there is no description of the other males.

Inspector Jim Gray said: “This was a needless act of vandalism, which has resulted in a significant number of vehicles sustaining damage, mainly to their wing mirrors.

“I would ask that anyone who can help us trace those responsible to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Pauline Hamill has announced her squad for next month’s UEFA European Women’s Under-17 Championships Elite Round qualifiers in Norway.

Scotland face a tough group, where they will face the hosts, Sweden and Poland between the 3rd and 8th March. The group winners will progress to the finals in Belarus in May.

Three Edinburgh based players have been included, Eartha Cumings from Spartans and Hibs’ duo Ellis Notley and Caitlin Russell.

Scotland Women’s Under-17 squad
Goalkeepers

Erin Clachers (Glasgow City FC)
Eartha Cumings (Spartans LFC)

Defenders

Lindsey Blues (Celtic FC
Nicole Cameron (Celtic FC)
Murron Cunningham (Glasgow City FC)
Lauren Doran-Barr (Rangers LFC)
Kirsty Fraser (Glasgow City FC)

Midfielders

Ellis Dalgliesh (Celtic FC)
Hannah Fulton (Celtic FC)
Brogan Hay (Glasgow City FC)
Samantha Kerr (Glasgow City FC)
Jamie-Leigh Napier (Celtic FC)
Ellis Notley (Hibernian LFC)
Caitlin Russell (Hibernian LFC)

Forwards

Freya Glen (Millwall Centre of Excellence)
Lauren Gordon (Aberdeen LFC)
Kaela McDonald-Nguah (Aberdeen LFC)
Shannon McGregor (Aberdeen LFC)

Tickets for the Scottish League Cup Final presented by Utilita go on sale from Monday 22 February at 10am.

Hibs have been given an initial allocation of 25,800 tickets, with more available to the Club should there be demand.

Tickets will be sold based on priority loyalty points waves. Supporters are able to purchase two tickets per client reference number to facilitate group purchases.  In order to ease the purchase process for groups and families, loyalty points will not be awarded for this match.

Ticket Waves

10am Monday 22 February: 90 point or more

10am Thursday 25 February: 1 point or more

10am Monday 29 February: General sale

Hibs TV subscribers will have now received an e-mail from the Club with regards to ticket arrangements, and Kicks for Kids supporters will receive an e-mail on Monday.

Loyalty Points

As noted above, loyalty points will not be awarded for this match. Supporters should not re-allocate additional tickets when purchasing as it will not allow them to process if the person they have allocated to does not have the required number of points.

The Ticket Office are currently processing the loyalty points for HSL members for whom they  have a client reference number for. Any questions relating to HSL loyalty points should be directed to info@hiberniansupporters.co.uk.

Prices

Tickets will be available in all four stands at Hampden, and are priced at £25 for adults and £10 for juveniles (15 and under).

Tickets will be available online, at the Hibernian Ticket Office and through the Hibernian Call Centre

A pop-up exhibition presented by Edinburgh University Design Society

Exhibiting a body of work inspired by the refugee crisis, and, in the process, showcasing design’s humanitarian power, Edinburgh University‘s Design Society hosted a two day workshop (18th-19th February) for 40 volunteers exploring the importance of good design and its significance in aid-relief through practical challenges.

The show has been curated on the site of the workshop and bears the fruits of the participants’ labour from all stages over the previous two days.

Participants took over the abandoned university building and established their own dwelling structures. Between them, washing lines covered in brainstorming ideas weave through the ‘camp’ and an enormous map, drawn by all 40 participants illustrates the camp’s design from above.

The groups of young designers each produced a portfolio of designs taking their product through the each stage of the design process, as is the way in professional design firms. A draft was critiqued by a panel of design society committee judges and the final designs mounted will be proudly displayed alongside their structures in this reclaimed space.

An interactive exhibit will allow visitors to vote for their favourite designs by placing a paper cut-out footprint into the dwelling structure of the team with the best design.

A film, including a time-lapse video of the construction process, will be screened in this immersive environment.

The participants were helped by a representative from Shelterbox charity, who gave a presentation and answered many of the design teams’ questions.

Students from all disciplines were invited to volunteer in the programme. This offered the opportunity to consider the nature of the design process through the participants’ multi-disciplinary backgrounds.

Exhibitions Manager Olivia Bright says ‘We are very excited to present such an exciting and relevant exhibition. Design’s humanitarian power, in addition to its creative excellence, is frequently overlooked in the art world, so we’re proud to present such an egalitarian show.’

• Edinburgh BAFTA winner
• Sign up for the Snowflake Run!
• Investing Women
• Horse racing more popular than ever
• Scottish Chamber Orchestra at the Sick Kids

Rebecca Morgan is from Edinburgh and she won a BAFTA with the short film which she produced with Writer/Director Caroline Bartlett. We interviewed Rebecca earlier in the week which you can read here. Now some people across the UK will be  able to see the film on the BAFTA Tour. So if you are in Stromness anytime soon….. here is the list of dates (but sadly not in Edinburgh!)

And there is a lovely snippet of the film in this video here:

Tomorrow the Snowflake Run takes place in Holyrood Park.

The run in Edinburgh is just one of four taking place across the UK. This new 10K event will raise money for life-saving research for Cancer Research UK.

And you may be pleased to know that there is still time to enter. Your age and ability do not matter much, as long as you have a bobble hat or beanie to wear and don’t mind being hugged by a ‘polar bear’ or two along the way.

Susan Johnstone, Cancer Research UK’s national event manager in Scotland, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that so many people have signed up to our first ever Snowflake Run in Edinburgh. But with 85 people diagnosed with cancer every day in Scotland, we need as people as possible to take part and help give cancer the cold shoulder.”

Organisers hope to raise around £120,000 to advance research which will help more men, women and children in Edinburgh, and across the UK, survive cancer.

Susan continued:  “It’s thanks to research that half of people diagnosed with cancer now survive. But half is not enough. That’s why we need as many people as possible to embrace the elements for the Stoke Snowflake Run.

“There are over 200 types of cancer and we won’t stop until we find cures for them all. The more research we are able to fund the sooner that day will come.”

For more information about the Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Snowflake Run visit snowflakeseries.co.uk

The first angel investment group made up only of women is called Investing Women and they are holding their first conference Ambition and Growth here in Edinburgh at Our Dynamic Earth on 7-8 March 2016.

200 of Scotland’s most successful businesswomen will attend the conference, including a dinner at Edinburgh Castle on the evening of 7 March and of course they will celebrate International Women’s Day the following day.

An important announcement will be made at the conference when the winner of the £20,000 AccelerateHER pitching competition will be announced.

Key speakers will include Dr Lena Wilson CEO of Scottish Enterprise and Annabelle Ewing MSP as well as Jackie Waring founder and CEO of Investing Women.

Horse racing is increasing in popularity in Scotland according to Scottish Racing. Last year over 300,000 people went along to the five racecourses in Scotland which is the highest number for seven years.

This is the country’s second most popular spectator sport in fact, and none more so than at Musselburgh Racecourse where they had record crowds in February. At Ladies Day last year a record attendance of 10,300 watched the richest race of the year the £100,000 William Hill Scottish Sprint Cup.

VisitScotland have named the course among the top 20 visitor experiences in the country. As well as horse-racing there is room for golf on the 9 hole course in the middle of the circuit!

The sport brings £173 million to the Scottish economy, and of course the successful horses ensure they are kept in some kind of luxury by winning £6.7 million in prize money.

Three of the Scottish racecourses, Ayr, Hamilton Park and Musselburgh were rated in the top dozen courses in Britain out of a total of 60.

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The Scottish Chamber Orchestra entertained children at The Royal Hospital for Sick Children earlier in the week. As part of their community outreach programme they ran a whole day of musical workshops to entertain the children.  Some are in hospital for a long time and have operations to go through. The patients’ families were invited to enjoy the music along with their children.

The workshop leader Matilda Brown and cellist Harriet Davidson used lots of fun and encouraged the children to create their own stories and sounds.

Fiona O’Sullivan, Arts Programme Manager of the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, said: “This was a fantastic activity organised for the children and we are extremely grateful for the Scottish Chamber Orchestra for helping us make it happen.

“This is just one of the many activities we provide to ensure children and young people’s lives are less interrupted by illness; they are less scared of hospital and have a more positive experience. Not only did this help the children to relax but it was also a learning experience and taught many of them how to play some of the instruments and communicate through sounds.

“It’s definitely something we would look to do again in the near future.”

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Two years ago this weekend, Hearts hosted Celtic in a SPFL game at Tynecastle. As is the way with these fixtures it was a lunchtime kick-off to meet the demands of satellite television coverage. The question was why Sky TV thought the game worthy of live transmission to the nation. Celtic were running away with the league – they were more than 20 points clear at the top of the table – but, more importantly in the eyes of the Hearts support, their team were cast adrift at the bottom of the league. The Maroons were 16 points behind Partick Thistle and Ross County. Of course, the 15 point deduction imposed on Hearts at the beginning of the season for entering administration in the summer of 2013 meant relegation was likely from day one.

Six of the Hearts team that day were aged 21 or under with another four teenagers on the substitute’s bench. Despite a spirited performance from the home side the champions-elect scored two second half goals – the second deep into injury time – to win 2-0. Hearts Head Coach Gary Locke took consolation from the fact that his side’s performance was a huge improvement from the last time Celtic visited Tynecastle and cruised to a 7-0 Scottish Cup win. Nonetheless, relegation was merely a matter of when and not if for Hearts and the future of one of Scottish football’s great clubs was very uncertain.

The Hearts support remained loyal to their team – nearly 16,000 were at Tynecastle that day – but to say they were apprehensive is putting it mildly. Russian businessman Vladimir Romanov, who presided over the club from 2004 until 2013, had long gone and the club’s financial backers UBIG had collapsed. There were many a sleepless night for the Maroon Army. How long would their team be out of the top flight of Scottish football? What did the future hold? In fact, would there even be a future for Heart of Midlothian Football Club? A question that brought a lump to the throat of every Hearts supporter and brought horrific flashbacks of when Hearts nearly went bust in 1981 only to be saved at the last minute by Wallace Mercer.

History will relate that Hearts were saved two years ago by the Ann Budge fronted Bidco 1874 who intend to pass control to the supporters group Foundation of Hearts around three years from now.

Mrs Budge helped rescue the club and installed former Hearts defender and manager Craig Levein as Director of Football and former Hearts defender Robbie Neilson as Head Coach. Neilson enjoyed huge success in his first season, securing automatic promotion as a revamped Hearts side won the Ladbrokes SPFL Championship in breath-taking style, finishing 21 points ahead of Hibernian, who were also relegated, and 24 ahead of Rangers – the two teams many thought would be favourites for promotion.

You may ask why I’m writing about this now. Well, although the events of season 2013/14 are still fresh in the memory for the majority of Hearts supporters, it seems there are some who still can’t acknowledge how close to the abyss their club actually came. Less than two years after relegation was confirmed, Hearts are now back in the top flight of Scottish football. Not only that but they sit third in the Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership, presently 11 points ahead of fourth-placed Ross County. Participation in the Europa League in season 2016-17 looks likely, a thought unimaginable just eighteen months ago.

Yet, there are some Hearts supporters who are seeing this as a winter of discontent. There is a general assumption in Scottish football that the best chance of success for clubs other than Celtic is in the cup competitions. Since they lifted the Scottish Cup in such exhilarating fashion by demolishing Hibernian 5-1 in the 2012 final, Hearts record in any cup competition makes for dismal reading. Until this season, they hadn’t even scored a goal in the William Hill Scottish Cup since that historic day nearly four years ago. They finally scored against Aberdeen in the fourth round last month and secured a fine victory. However, all that counted for nothing as Hearts threw away a two-goal lead against Hibernian in the fifth round at Tynecastle – and subsequently lost the replay on Tuesday evening before a baying Easter Road crowd, tormented by the 5-1 experience in 2012 and desperate for some form of retribution even if this came before this season’s competition had even reached the quarter final stage.

As tends to be the way with many who are passionate about their team, many Hearts fans saw the defeat in black and white terms. After all, Hearts were playing lower league opposition. They didn’t play well in the first game at Tynecastle but couldn’t enhance the adage that it’s the sign of a good team that plays poorly but still wins as Robbie Neilson’s side couldn’t hold on to a two goal lead at home with barely ten minutes remaining. It not only gave their old rivals a reprieve but handed them the initiative. Hibernian manager Alan Stubbs said the Hibees would fancy their chances against anyone at Easter Road. Striker Jason Cummings, once on Hearts books, stoked up the mind games by saying Hibs would definitely win the replay.

Hearts, it seems, couldn’t handle this. Gorgie defender Jordan McGhee spoke after the game on Tuesday.

“The boys know we didn’t really turn up in the first half. For the first ten minutes, we weren’t even on the pitch. Hibs came out of the traps and we didn’t know how to deal with it. We settled in the second half and started passing the ball, which we’re good at. I thought we were much better then, we created a few chances and possibly should have scored. Fans and everyone else give their opinion but, as footballers, it’s our job to take it on the chin and move on.”

What has dismayed many Hearts supporters in the aftermath of the cup exit is their team ‘didn’t know how to deal with it’ to quote young McGhee. Why was this? I find it difficult to believe it was down to a lack of preparation as Robbie Neilson is one of the most studious coaches in the game and would have told his players what to expect. Neilson’s reaction after the game spoke volumes. He didn’t say many words but what he did say struck an ominous note for some Hearts players

“We’re disappointed. It was a big game for us, the club and the fans and we failed to get through but we have to accept that and take it on the chin.

“We fought back well but didn’t manage to get the ball in the net. We had a good period of play in the second-half and a lot of chances and we didn’t take them.

“It was a big game for us but you have to take the highs and lows.

“We’re still building as a team. We’ve got a long, long way to go and I think tonight proved that.”

Hearts do indeed have a long way to go and the cup defeat from Hibernian clearly demonstrated that. Despite playing poorly Hearts should have won the first game in Gorgie.  The players have the ability to have played far better, particularly in that first half at Easter Road. If the players have a long way to go then so too has Neilson. His team selection and tactics against Aberdeen in the previous round were spot on. Hearts played exceptionally well in the first half and thoroughly deserved to win. Now there may have been extenuating circumstances when Hibs came to Gorgie; Osman Sow was in the process of finalising his move to China, Prince Bauben and the hugely influential Arnaud Djoum both hobbled off injured while Sam Nicholson was clearly struggling with injury in the final few minutes. Nonetheless Hearts performance against their city rivals was nowhere near as intense and impressive as it had been against the Dons.

Some Hearts supporters say Neilson concentrates too much on the opposition and chops and changes his team selection according to who Hearts are playing. Alan Stubbs, on the other hand, believes his Hibs team are good enough to beat anyone, particularly at home. This belief filters through to the players as was demonstrated at Easter Road on Tuesday. It’s not difficult to form an opinion that perhaps some Hearts players don’t believe they are good enough. Billy King, for example, was a key part of last season’s success and had recently came back into Hearts first team following a spell on the sidelines. But no sooner was he back making an impact than he was sent on loan to Rangers until the end of the season. Yes, the return of Jamie Walker from injury may have influenced Neilson’s decision but young King must wonder about his future at Tynecastle.

Many Hearts fans have questioned the decision to let King go, even if it is only on loan. At the time of Neilson’s appointment as Head Coach in May 2014 there wasn’t a shortage of people questioning that decision either. His predecessor, Gary Locke, was popular with the Gorgie faithful and some felt the way Locke along with experienced players such as Jamie MacDonald, Jamie Hamill and Ryan Stevenson were treated – all of whom were pointed towards the Tynecastle exit as soon as Craig Levein returned – didn’t cast the club in a good light.

Some of those critics are now rounding on Robbie Neilson. It seems the impressive performances of last season – admittedly in the Championship – and the manner in which Hearts raced to promotion have been forgotten. Some have questioned the decision to let talented youngsters such as Dale Carrick, Brad McKay and Kevin McHattie leave and have doubted the wisdom of bringing in replacements from overseas such as Juwon Oshaniwa, a player who featured in the last World Cup for Nigeria but whose Gorgie career has stalled somewhat. Last season Hearts played a very effective passing game with Neilson saying he would never revert to a long ball style. Yet, this season, the critics argue, Hearts have resorted to long ball tactics to a big target man – previously it was Osman Sow, now it is Abiola Dauda – on several occasions.

This is the first time Neilson and Levein have faced criticism since they restructured Hearts less than two years ago. As is always the case when the team is winning and delivering success all is well. When things don’t go so well the critics aren’t slow to voice their opinion. Which is what makes football the game it is.

That said, Hearts remain on course for a decent season. There will be no silverware at the end of this campaign while Hibernian are chasing two cups and the Championship title Hearts secured with such ease this time last year. However, for a promoted club, one should not overlook the fact that Hearts have done very well in their first season back in the Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership.

When Ann Budge took control she said there was a two year plan to get Hearts back to the top flight of Scottish football. The two years aren’t up yet but Hearts are not only back in the top division but are sitting pretty in the chase for a place in Europe next season. They have attracted one of the best young players in the land in John Souttar who was prised away from Dundee United as well as an experienced Scottish internationalist in Don Cowie. And there have already been goals from on-loan striker Abiola Dauda.

Yes, a derby defeat is always difficult to take, particularly so in the Scottish Cup. Hearts didn’t play well in either of the ties against Hibernian but the reputation of Heart of Midlothian FC is such that surely some credit should be given to the opposition. Hibs are playing well just now and have the status of a Premiership club. No Hearts fan likes to lose to Hibs but it happens – nowhere in the laws of the game does it say Hearts have to win every Edinburgh derby.

As Robbie Neilson said on Wednesday – and there is no doubt Craig Levein and Ann Budge concur – Hearts are very much a work in progress. And as some of the Hibs players said earlier this week, Hearts are presently in a place Hibs want to be – doing well in the top division of Scottish football.

A place in next season’s Europa League is eminently feasible for Hearts. Which brings back memories of the last Hearts team to win promotion to the top flight of Scottish football – Alex Macdonald’s side of season 1983/84 which finished in fifth place in the Premier Division and were rewarded with a Uefa Cup tie with Paris St Germain the following season.

Mistakes will continue to be made by the players, the coaching staff, the Director of Football (Danny Swanson, anyone?) and the Board of Directors. That’s what being a work in progress is about. Every fan is entitled to their opinion but all I would ask disgruntled Hearts fans is to consider where their club was heading this time two years ago – and where they are likely to be heading a few months from now.

The Foundation of Hearts was founded on the community spirit which refused to let a Scottish football institution die. The fans will continue the remarkable progress initiated by Ann Budge. One cup defeat, no matter how bitter it tastes, will not change that.

Sam Martinez, the well known Edinburgh pensioner and fanatical Hibs’ fan who was born in 1910, when no women and only some men had the right to vote in Scotland has celebrated his 106^th birthday this week.

To mark the occasion in style, Sam Martinez and his family were invited to a special lunch held in his honour by The Merchant Company, Scotland’s pre-eminent livery company.

Pat Denzler, Master of the Merchant Company, welcomed Sam to The Merchants’ Hall where he was presented with a birthday cake, given a special lunch and talked to some of the Members about events in his life.

While the Suffragettes were calling for votes for women in Scotland in 1910, Sam was born far away in Belize, one of eleven children in his family.

In 1941, he was one of more than 800 men who travelled by ship from Belize, during World War ll, to Scotland where he worked as a forester. After the War ended, Sam decided to stay in Scotland where he raised a family and became an ardent Hibs supporter.

Sam is one of 250 older people in the Capital who receive a pension from The Merchant Company and he is their oldest pensioner by far.

Pat Denzler said: “It has been a great joy for us at The Merchant Company to celebrate Sam’s 106^th birthday. He has had a remarkable life, having been through two World Wars, and has seen so many changes in the world. We wished him not only a Happy Birthday but many happy returns.”

Sam commented: “It has been great to celebrate another year in the beautiful city of Edinburgh which I call home.”