Reported crime in North Edinburgh on the decrease

police scotland 3 Police Scotland have said that reported crime in the north of the capital has come down by just over 23% compared to the same period last year.

Reports of violent crime across Leith, Leith Walk, Inverleith and Forth wards have reduced by 20% and robberies have fallen by 27%.

Police are also pleased to say that for this type of crime almost 3 out of every 4 has been solved.

Chief Inspector Richard Horan, Local Area Commander for North Edinburgh, said: “I am fortunate to work with a very talented and enthusiastic team of officers who are determined to make sure that the area in which they live and work is kept safe.

“Our anti-violence initiative in Leith, Operation Elbrus, has been utilising high visibility targeted patrols at key times and locations. The ongoing work of the Violent Offender Watch in Edinburgh and the investigations of our dedicated Violent Crime Unit have been invaluable in achieving this reduction, as have the funded officers within the Divisional Violence Reduction Unit.”

Reports of anti-social behaviour are down by approximately 10%, and calls surrounding similar types of disorder are down the same. The City of Edinburgh Council has obtained a number of ASBOs for high-level repeat offenders, and the number of joint interventions using funded officers continues to rise.

CammyDay200x200 Councillor Cammy Day, Community Safety Leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “I am delighted that there has been such a significant drop in crime in the north of the capital. A huge amount of work has been put into tackling criminal activity in this part of Edinburgh, and the figures reflect that this effort has been well worth it.

“Partnership working between the Council, Police Scotland and the wider community on initiatives such as Stronger North has played a vital part in dealing with issues of concern, as has an increase in patrols by community police and community safety officers. Residents can be assured that efforts to keep them safe will continue.”

Domestic housebreaking is down by almost 12% and business housebreaking down by 50% thanks to the hard work of local officers and the Community Investigation Unit. The Vehicle Crime Team, assisted by local officers, has helped reduce vehicle crime by 30% while detection rates for this have doubled.

CI Horan continued: “Housebreaking remains Edinburgh’s number one priority, and I’m grateful for all the hard work our officers and partners have been doing to prevent this deeply personal crime. We’ve improved our ability to identify trends which have provided real benefits in quickly responding to emerging issues, and we have been assisted by a number of national units such as road policing and air support.”

Officers have just completed a 6-month refresh of the Multi-Member Ward Plans for the North of the city, which are the policing priorities that the local community have identified for action. Further opportunity for members of the local community to influence future priorities will commence early next year.

Each of the four local ward plans include reducing violent crime, tackling anti-social behaviour, and reducing housebreaking as three of the key priorities told to officers by the public.

Leith and Leith Walk also have tackling drug and alcohol abuse as a priority, and there is significant work ongoing throughout Edinburgh in relation to this. This includes the recent NPS Forfeiture Order, which is the first granted to a local authority area in Scotland, and 21 people were on Friday (30 October) charged with various drugs offences following a series of raids across the Capital involving over 170 officers.

Forth and Inverleith also have road safety as a priority, and local officers will continue to work alongside the Road Policing Unit and the City of Edinburgh Council to prevent unsafe driving behaviour and detect offenders.

For more information on what’s happening in your area please visit www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/edinburgh, like Edinburgh Police Division on Facebook or follow @EdinNorthPolice on Twitter.

Prestonfield Primary have a Rubbish Morning Out!

Earlier today the staff, parents and pupils of Prestonfield Primary School had a Rubbish Morning Out and invited The Edinburgh Reporter to join them. Our photo above shows a team of three litter pickers Ghaliyah (4) Kasey (9) and Saby (7).

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The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Headteacher Fiona Murray explained: “Parents were invited to support us in looking after our environment by coming into school to hear about the work we have been doing in the areas of sustainability, health, safety and children’s rights.

“There was a presentation of the children’s work followed by a whole school community litter pick with the parents joining in. We are currently working towards our second Green Flag, RRSA Level 2 and Healthy Schools Stage 3, so this all ties in together really well.”

The day dawned bright and dry so it was lovely to join the children on their walkabout, and they were very diligent about recording everything they picked up!

What’s on in Edinburgh – Plastic Barricades

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Plastic Barricades, an alternative/indie band from London will be playing Edinburgh’s Opium Club in Cowgate on the 13 November 2015, as part of their UK tour to promote their new single ’Needles In Haystacks’ on their upcoming debut album. It is the band’s first show in Scotland.

Romantic and honest, gloomy and curious, melodic and melancholic, Plastic Barricades chronicle life in the troubled yet fascinating 21st century with painstaking sincerity. Plastic Barricades are Dan Kert on guitar, keyboards and vocals, Daniele Borgato on bass and Frazer Webster on drums.

”The great thing about Plastic Barricades is that each of their songs is so intricately structured that it becomes a living thing, and its listening experience grows and matures as you do. Current fans will be more than pleased and newcomers will be able to easily sink into the lush sounds and vibrant melody of “Needles in Haystacks”.
Rick Jamm, Jamsphere Magazine, August 2015

Support bands on the night will be alternative band The Sesh who are from Dundee, and alternative band Vacant Life who are from Edinburgh.

The gig is 14+, and doors open at 7PM. Advance tickets are available from Ticketweb and Skiddle for £5 stbf, or £8 on the door.

Submitted by Julia Hall

Five things you need to know today

Volunteer with Bield

The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club is 10!

Stockbridge Penguin Project

ESPC raise funds for Royal Blind

Fireworks at Hopetoun

Bield, one of Scotland’s leading care and housing providers, is highlighting the important role that volunteers play in assisting older people to enjoy happy and fulfilled lives.

Gordon Court in Leith is looking for volunteer befrienders to get to know tenants and help restore confidence while encouraging them to engage socially in the wider community.

The befriender program is crucial and volunteers are asked to commit to only a few hours a week to build a satisfying and ongoing companionship with a tenant at Gordon Court.

Find out more here.

This Friday 6th Nov The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club have yet another ceilidh with Teannaich ceilidh band at the Assembly Roxy.

Doors open at 7:15pm with dancing beginning at 7:30pm

You can get your tickets online from www.edinburghceilidhs.com or in person from the Tickets Scotland box office on Rose Street.

Again tickets are selling fast for this ceilidh but there are still a few available so don’t miss it…

They might even have a few extra treats for you all as they celebrate their 10th birthday!

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If you are shopping down in Stockbridge you cannot miss the penguins which are decorating the shop windows there! It is a fundraising initiative for two great Edinburgh charities:

“In previous years we have seen Giraffes, Elephants and Scottish Terriers fill the shop windows of Stockbridge, all organised by local business to support Edinburgh charities and this year is no exception, as from the 1st of November to the 22nd of December 60 local businesses will be fundraising, displaying their decorated papier mâché penguins for two Edinburgh charities LifeCare and It’s Good To Give. If you would like to win a particular penguin, the penguins have ‘birthdays’, for £1 you can select an available birthday at the individual businesses for a chance to win their penguin.”

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ESPC, the local property marketing experts for East Central Scotland, has handed over a staggering £2400 to help support its chosen charity, Royal Blind Edinburgh, following its annual quiz night.

Hearts Appoint Jon Daly as U20s Coach

Hearts have announced that former Dundee United and Rangers striker Jon Daly is to become the club’s new under 20s coach when his present contract at Raith Rovers ends in January.

The 32-year-old former Republic of Ireland U21 internationalist will bring a wealth of experience to the Tynecastle youngsters.

Hearts Director of Football Craig Levein told the club’s official website: “I’m delighted that Jon has agreed to join the club in January and take up the post of U20s coach.

“Jon is somebody that both myself and Robbie Neilson know from our respective times at Dundee United and it’s an exciting appointment.

“We believe he has all the attributes to develop into a great coach and we look forward to welcoming him in January.”

Bridgend Farmhouse wins £1 MILLION Lottery grant

A project in South-East Edinburgh to renovate a 19^th Century farmhouse and turn it into a community hub has received nearly £1 million from the Big Lottery Fund.

Thanks to an award of £997,908, Bridgend Inspiring Growth will take an old run-down farmhouse and turn it into a thriving community hub for the benefit of all those living in Craigmillar, Inch, Moredun and beyond.

This vital funding means that work can now begin on a community-training kitchen, community cafe, two multi-purpose meeting spaces and four external community workshops. This will enable the organisation to deliver a range of learning programmes, from cycle-repair and outdoor education to DIY and arts & crafts. The project will also provide support and training opportunities to a range of people of all ages with a disability in the surrounding communities.

The City of Edinburgh Council has already supported the project and decided to hand over the building to the charity at no cost.

Will Golding, Chairperson, Bridgend Inspiring Growth, said: “We are absolutely thrilled at the news! After all the incredible hard work, support and volunteer effort over the last five and a half years, we now know it has finally paid off.

“We can’t wait to get working on the renovation and development of the Bridgend Centre for Learning, Eating and Exercise. We will continue with our weekly drop-in sessions at the farmhouse and outreach activities during the process to ensure people can be involved throughout, and are looking for any volunteers and people interested to come and get involved.

We also have a small amount more fundraising to do to reach our target, and would welcome anyone interested in helping with that.”

Maureen McGinn, Big Lottery Fund Scotland Chair, said, “Today’s award to Bridgend Inspiring Growth will provide a community hub for the people in South-East Edinburgh. The renovated farmhouse will enable the community to expand opportunities for learning, healthy eating and exercise to people of all ages living in Craigmillar, Inch, Moredun and surrounding communities. This project is an inspiring example of a community making a positive and lasting impact to local people’s lives.”

Poppy Bus launched today

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Lothian Buses has unveiled a specially created ‘Poppy Bus’ to mark Remembrance Day 2015 and pay tribute to Edinburgh’s war heroes.

It has been painted poppy red and adorned with poppy designs. It also has the messages ‘We Will Remember Them’ and “Lest We Forget’ emblazoned on either side.

The bespoke vehicle was revealed on Wednesday 4 November at Edinburgh Castle with the support of battalion members of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and ex-military members of staff at Lothian Buses.

Lt Col Charlie Platt, of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, said: “Hopefully everyone who sees and travels in this bus will remember the service and sacrifice of those men and women who have given their lives in defence of the country.

“The infantrymen of The Royal Regiment of Scotland will be supporting Remembrance events wherever we can, in the Lothians and beyond, and are proud to stand alongside veterans and the civilian community in support of Poppy Scotland.”

As well as the specially created ‘Poppy Bus’, which will run on various routes throughout the city during November, each vehicle in the Lothian Buses fleet will be decorated with poppy glass stickers and support messages for Poppy Scotland.

Sarah Boyd, Head of Operations for Lothian Buses, said: “We have many ex-forces personnel working here at Lothian Buses and there is a big military presence here in Edinburgh, many of whom are our customers.

“The Poppy Scotland Appeal is very close to our hearts and one the company feels is important to mark. We hope that the people of Edinburgh find our special bus to be a fitting tribute.”

Lothian Buses will be collecting for Poppy Scotland throughout November with collection tins in its Travelshops, Park & Ride sites and depots.

The artwork production has been gifted by Exterion, who manage the advertising space on the Lothian Buses fleet with Lothian Buses donating the costs to the Poppy Scotland Appeal.

Photographer Ian Georgeson, 07921 567360

Bride on a budget? Look no further for your perfect dress

bridal 1resize Brides on a budget can still look beautiful on their big day thanks to some help from Capability Scotland.

The disability charity has launched a bridal department in its Stockbridge shop in Edinburgh stocking a fantastic range of pre-loved and new dresses available at a fraction of the cost of an average wedding dress.

Now the department is taking the dresses on the road and is looking forward to meeting brides-to-be and their friends and family at The Edinburgh Wedding Fair at the Corn Exchange on 7th and 8th of November.

Capability Scotland launched its wedding department this summer and since then has enjoyed steady trade from brides who want to look stunning on their big day without breaking the bank.

Every bride who buys a dress and/or accessories from Capability Scotland has the added bonus of knowing they are supporting disabled people across Scotland at the same time.

As well as stocking wedding dresses the shop also has a range of accessories including shoes, bridesmaid dresses, outfits for the ‘Mother of the Bride’ and other occasion wear. The department has been well supported by businesses across the country receiving donations from a number of wedding dress shops including Apple Blossom Time Bridalwear in Perth and Xquisite Brides in Falkirk.

Capability Scotland Head of Retail, Sophie Wilbraham, explained more:

“We want to help brides on a budget find their perfect dress without compromising on quality or style. Many of our dresses have been donated from bridal shops and can be snapped up at a very reasonable price. We have a beautiful range of dresses just waiting for their chance to shine.

“And of course every dress sold makes a difference to someone’s life by helping to support the vital services we provide disabled children and adults across Scotland. These include independent living support, residential care, education, employment advice and much more. “

Capability Stockbridge Shop Manager, Patsy Parker, added: “We are really looking forward to being part of the Edinburgh Wedding Fair at the Corn Exchange and showing off our dresses.
Anyone who can’t come along to see us there is welcome to come and visit us at Stockbridge shop. We have a dedicated bridal department and fitting room and have tried to recreate the lovely experience all brides want to have when searching for that perfect dress.”

Capability Scotland will be at stand 66 at the Edinburgh Wedding Fair at the Corn Exchange on 7th & 8th November.

Specsavers – FLASH COMPETITION – Tickets for Edinburgh Rugby v Munster

Specsavers Rugby

You have only hours to enter this competition! Enter here by 11.00am on Thursday 5 November 2015.

Specsavers have just given us tickets for the Edinburgh Rugby match this weekend Saturday 7 November 2015 at Murrayfield.

This weekend the capital team are facing Munster at 5.15pm at Murrayfield Stadium.

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Specsavers has stores across Edinburgh and the surrounding areas – Shandwick Place, Cameron Toll, Fort Kinnaird, Morningside, Musselburgh, North Bridge, The Gyle and Leith and Dalkeith

Career insights from the man who brought the Ryder Cup to Scotland

merchant company

An assembled company of Edinburgh’s top business people gathered today to hear the highlights, insights and lessons learned from the man who brought the Ryder Cup to Scotland.

Peter Lederer CBE, former Managing Director and latterly Chairman of Gleneagles, was the guest speaker at a business breakfast at The Merchant Company whose 500 members represent 43 different professions in the Capital.

The event was held at The Merchants’ Hall in Hanover Street and guests heard Peter give an overall view of his career highlights which included thirty years at Gleneages where under his stewardship it evolved into the acclaimed resort it is today.

Peter is also a former Board Member of Diageo Scotland, Chairman of Visit Scotland and Chair of the Saltire Foundation. He is a Non-Executive Director at Baxters Food Group and Chair of Taste Communications Scotland and Hamilton & Inches.

He is also involved with two start-ups and his passion is helping young people getting started in business.

Pat Denzler, Treasurer and Master Designate at The Merchant Company said:

“It was fascinating to hear Peter’s insights on his career and management strategy and we were extremely fortunate to have Peter come to talk to us this morning.”

Photo Caption: Pat Denzler, Treasurer and Master Designate at The Merchant Company shows Peter Lederer, guest speaker at the Business Breakfast, a new book about the history of The Merchant Company being published this week.

Council reject Allan Park planning application

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The council’s Development Management Committee unanimously decided to reject the application by Allan Park Ltd to demolish a house to form a roadway to the brownfield site behind.

The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to campaigners and their supporters after the meeting. The developer opted to give us a comment off camera which you can read below:

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The objectors filled the public gallery in the Dean of Guild Court Room at the City Chambers, almost leaving no room for their own supporters or the small group of representatives from the site owners, Allan Park Ltd. Such was the strength of opinion some stood throughout the meeting which lasted more than two hours.

The objectors were delighted with their win today but recognise that this was just another hurdle in a fight which has already lasted for six years. The Managing Director of Allan Park Ltd said during the meeting that they would appeal any decision today if it was not favourable to their plans.

The committee based their decision on planning policies relating to housing, open space and transport contained in the existing and emerging Local Development Plans.

The Managing Director Sean Black told The Edinburgh Reporter after the meeting: “As you can imagine I am extremely disappointed in the planning committee’s verdict today. The director of planning has recommended approval of the application for good planning reasons, which is supported by a number of third party reports, including transport, environmental as well as the City’s Local Plan, the secondary plan and Scottish Planning policy.

“Furthermore, the city Health and Social Care department have identified this development would fulfil a gap in the local community as well as provide much needed family accommodation.

“The development would benefit from the creation of 50 local jobs, supply local businesses and cater for many vulnerable people in need of care. However it has been argued today by committee and the residents’ association these issues do not hold weight over the opinion of few in context to the the city of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole.

“On top of this it is a brownfield site within the urban area and is supported by fundamental Scottish planning policy and local plan objectives. It will deal with a site that has lain vacant for years and improve residential amenity and appearance.

“This is further supported in the SESplan of July 2015. I refer to two of the key visions of success:

“new development is intergrated with existing communities and in accessible locations on transport corridors”

“ walking, cycling and public transport account for an increasing proportion of all journeys”

“I am passionate that our development will benefit the city.

“By Allan Park’s own admittance over 38000 people viewed their social media campaign in which only 4% (c.1650 people) of those chose to object to the proposals, this represents less than 1% of Edinburgh population however, sadly the weight of these numbers has prevailed over the city of Edinburgh’s own planning policy.

“These people were misled by false information provided throughout the objection campaign. It is important to consider whilst public objection is an important consideration it needs to be based on legitimate policy and material matters rather than weight of numbers. Many locally will support and benefit here.

“I refer to the Facebook statement from Allan Park in the aftermath of today’s hearing which is a prime example of the disingenuous and misleading information the Save Allan Park campaign has provided throughout.

We are delighted that common sense has prevailed and our planning committee have unanimously refused this application. A…

Posted by Allan Park Residents Association on Wednesday, 4 November 2015

“Sadly whilst I conducted myself professionally throughout and presented on facts today, Save Allan Park continue to resort to personal slurs and misleading information which contradicts Scottish planning policy.

“I will now consult with our property and legal professionals and intend to take the application to the inspectorate of planning and environmental appeals.”

There is already a planning permission in place for a 60+ bed care home, but the new application included a downsized care home with 14 townhouses.

The supporters were many and all were heard except for Joanna Cherry QC MP and Jim Eadie MSP who had both sent their assistants to deliver their statements verbally. The committee would not hear the representatives sticking to a decision made a while back. They did however take a short break to read the statements provided.

We live tweeted the proceedings of the meeting which you can follow here:

Hockey – Scotland Women v Ireland Women, November Test Series – 3 of 3

Ireland square the series in Glasgow

Ireland’s women took a well deserved win in the third and final match of the November Test Series at the National Hockey Centre in Glasgow. 1-0 up at the break, another goal in the second half sealed the victory for the visitors.

The opening exchanges were fairly evenly matched, but Ireland had the first opportunity for a score with a penalty corner seven minutes in, but Shirley McCay’s low shot was deflected around the post off the stick of a diving Nicola Cochrane. This save was to prove to be the first in a string of fine stops by the Scottish keeper as Ireland rained in shots on the home side goal.

The visitors then opened their account with 15 minutes on the clock when a reverse stick strike from the sliding Nicola Evans at the top of the ‘D’ cut back across the goal to leave Cochrane wrong footed.

She redeemed herself 10 minutes later when she saved a close in strike, but the writing was on the wall and Scotland’s few trips upfield were easily dealt with by the Irish defence. However, their attack, despite the best efforts of Chloe Brown, Cliodhna Sargent and Megan Frazer, couldn’t add to their tally before the break.

Once again, Scotland came out all guns blazing in the second half, but Ireland were soon back in command of the ball and a ‘goal’ 10 minutes in was disallowed by Scotland’s Olympics-bound Sarah Wilson for a high ball in the area.

The next 15 minutes of the match could so easily have been spent picking the ball out of the Scottish net, but a combination of Cochrane saves, a goal line clearance from Emily Newlands – also the only carded (green) player – and poor finishing from Ireland kept the score at 1-0.

It couldn’t last, however and in the 60^th minute Ireland netted their second when Emily Beattie ended a long run into the ‘D’ with a fierce strike that gave Cochrane no chance.

The Scots’ keeper earned her corn in the final 10 minutes with another string of saves – aided by Newlands – meant that the visitors had to be content with a 2-0 victory backed up by a fine performance from the squad in general.

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

Volunteers needed to help Bield tenants in Leith

Silver Surfer - Web

If you have an hour or two to spare then why not volunteer in Leith?

Bield, one of Scotland’s leading care and housing providers, is highlighting the important role that volunteers play in assisting older people to enjoy happy and fulfilled lives.

Gordon Court in Leith is looking for volunteer befrienders to get to know tenants and help restore confidence while encouraging them to engage socially in the wider community.

The befriender program is crucial and volunteers are asked to commit to only a few hours a week to build a satisfying and ongoing companionship with a tenant at Gordon Court.

Christine Wood, development manager, said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for our tenants who feel isolated or unable to get out on their own. Many would love to be able to do some of the activities they used to, and with the support of someone else this could be possible again.

“It’s the little things that are most important to tenants here at Gordon Court. The chance to have a chat for a couple of hours is really welcomed and helps to broaden their world.

“Our ‘Free to Be’ philosophy helps to enrich the lives of all our tenants and befrienders are always able assist residents in achieving their freedom and boosting quality of life, especially when mobility is decreased.”

If you enjoy socialising with other people, have some spare time and would like to become more involved in the local community please consider this hugely rewarding program.

Times are varied and flexible across all these developments and roles but Bield are looking for a six month commitment in any case. Each role asks for only a few hours a week on a regular basis so that tenants can get to know volunteers and get the most out of each experience.

Enquiries are welcomed from anyone over the age of 16 and full training and support is provided. Bield are also able to pay out-of-pocket expenses.

For more information please call Christine Wood on 0131 554 3231 or Donna Dickson on 0131-273-4095/07887 796 744 or email volunteering@bield.co.uk

Five things you need to know today Edinburgh!

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Save Allan Park – decision today

Love Music Community Choir

Cooking Up a Story in Broomhouse

Stitchy Beats

Ade Tanzania Society

The Development Management Committee meets this morning to be met with deputations from those who have objected to the demolition of a bungalow in Allan Park to allow an access roadway to be formed to a care home on land behind the line of 1930s homes.

Read more here and tune into the council’s webcast live from 10:00am to hear how the decision goes.

Tonight the members of Love Music Community Choir, the UK’s largest community choir, invite you to their Autumn Concert, a celebration of the work they’ve done and the music they’ve made together this term (the end of the choir’s third year). In the magnificent Usher Hall the choir will entertain you with a range of styles, from The Kinks to Zadok the Priest – as you’ve never heard them before! They’ll also be celebrating their links with Luminate, Scotland’s creative ageing festival, and letting you know about Instant Choir, a project they’ve been running in a local care home. The concert is supported by City of Edinburgh Council.

Conductor: Stephen Deazley
Pianist: Dave Milligan
GUEST STAR: Beatbox Hobbit

The concert will take place at the Usher Hall, Lothian Road; it will begin at 7.30pm and last approx 45 minutes with no interval.

Tickets:
£5 full price
£3 concessions (students, senior citizens, disabled)
Free entry for children, unwaged people and a disabled person’s companion

Book online here, in person at the Usher Hall Box Office, Lothian Road or by calling 0131 228 1155. All online and phone bookings carry a £1 transaction fee

Income from ticket sales will fund the work of Love Music Productions Ltd, registered Scottish Charity No SC037370.

Cooking Up A Story: a session of rhymes, stories and cooking with the brilliant Broomhouse Health Strategy Group, for children aged 2-5 with their parents/carers. 1.30-2.30pm today, Sighthill Library, 55 Sighthill Road. Places MUST be booked through the library; please speak to a member of staff, call 0131 529 5566 or email sighthill.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Stitchy Beats: an afternoon of knitting at Sketchy Beats, a new cafe celebrating art in all its forms. Times are getting colder and the need for warmer clothes is creeping in fast – create personalised accessories that you can flaunt or give as a gift….(Christmas isn’t too far off!) Bring down your equipment and some spare for those who might not have any; there will be a few sets of needles available and wool too for those who wish to learn. From 1pm today, Sketchy Beats Cafe, 208 Great Junction Street, Leith.

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Ade Tanzania Charity Fundraiser Party: live music from Oli Taylor (acoustic), Lucas & Ezu (acoustic funk /soul) and Sploco (indie rock/funk), plus Prize Draw and much party fun as funds are raised for this Edinburgh University Student Charity, which supports the education of 65 children; 39 at a nursery school set up by the charity in 2011 and 26 at local primary schools. 9pm (entry from 8pm) tonight, The Jazz Bar, Chambers Street. £5/£4 on the door: please note this venue is strictly cash only.

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ESPC raise funds for charity

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The ESPC which is the local property marketing body has raised funds for its chosen charity Royal Blind by holding a quiz.

The sponsored quiz was attended by 30 teams of four people, with all money raised going to help fund mobility equipment designed to make the lives of wheelchair users that attend the Royal Blind School easier.

Hosted by Paul Hilton, Chief Executive of ESPC, the quiz master for the evening asked a variety of tricky questions on topics ranging from films to current affairs.

Paul said:

“We are thrilled to announce that we raised £2,400 for such a worthwhile charity through some outstanding support from our members and suppliers.

“Here at ESPC we have a fantastic working relationship with Royal Blind and are committed to supporting the charity throughout the year. Holding events like this is a great way to build funds that will change the lives of many pupils that attend the school, something we are extremely passionate about.

“Royal Blind provides education, care and employment for blind and partially sighted people throughout Scotland helping to raise the awareness of a disability that many of us take for granted, something we are extremely proud to support.

“We’d like to thank everyone who attended the quiz raising helping us raise £2,400 for Royal Blind.”

The money raised by ESPC will go towards the purchase of a SMART Platform. Designed to encourage self-development and to help pupils actively participate in their own mobility, the mobility aids allow for an individual’s bespoke wheelchair to be easily loaded via integral ramps onto various levels normally inaccessible by wheelchair users.

The mobility devices are also ideal for shared use as they let each user remain in their own wheelchair with their own unique seating and controls, allowing staff to assess an individuals’ capability and needs. Each device also includes anti-collision sensors, carer control, voice confirmations, speed and motion control.

Kerrigan Bell, Senior Fundraiser at Royal Blind, said:

“Sight loss affects around 1 in 30 people and can have a profound impact on a person’s life.

“Royal Blind exists to improve the quality of life for people with blindness and visual impairments through care, education and employment.

“We’re delighted with how the event went – everyone had a great evening and helped raise lots of money for a great cause.”

The ESPC team also sponsor the Royal Blind Ambassador, Paralympian and Commonwealth medal winner, Libby Clegg. Libby suffers from a deteriorating eye condition known as Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy disease, which means she only has slight peripheral vision in her left eye, and is registered as blind.

The charity quiz was held on 26^th October at Edinburgh’s ‘Ghillie Dhu’ and welcomed 120 guests comprising ESPC members, suppliers and charity representatives.

If you would like to support Royal Blind or find out more visit: www.royalblind.org/

Photo shows Amy Walker, Marketing Manager of ESPC, Jonathan Jack from Royal blind and Kerrigan Bell, Senior Fundraiser at Royal Blind.

Hockey – Scotland Women v Ireland Women, November Test Series

Scots come from behind for the win

Scotland made life hard for themselves in the first half of the second match in the Novembers Test Series against Ireland, but came through for the win with a much improved performance in the second.

The first half of the match was, as in Match 1, largely dominated by the visitors. Scotland broke through a few times but didn’t really pressurise the Irish goal. Players were continually beaten to the ball and Ireland’s reward came in the twelfth minute of play with a fine reverse stick strike into the top of the Scottish net from Megan Frazer.

Scotland were saved on more than a couple of occasions by their goalie, Nicola Cochrane and endured a goal mouth scramble with the ball being cleared off the line by a sprawling Susan McGilveray.

The second half saw a different Scotland team take to the field and Ireland, despite Cochrane having to make a couple of early saves, were seemingly unable to exert the same dominance in play.

The first of Scotland’s two goals came just over 10 minutes into the second half. Scotland’s Captain, Nikki Kidd charged into the ‘D’ with the ball and, evading a diving lunge from Ireland’s new cap, Elena Tice (right) – who nevertheless acquitted herself pretty well in the match in general – took the ball wide and reversed the ball into the centre to where Fiona Bruce was on hand to deflect the ball into the net past the keeper.

A few minutes later she just missed adding the scoreboard when she failed to connect with a cross goal strike from Emma McGregor.

The second goal for Scotland came from a failed attempt by Ireland to clear fully from a penalty corner. The initial shot on goal came in from Kidd, but was stopped. However, the loose ball was picked up by Katie Robertson (top) who went over the Irish keeper and found the back of the net for the second.

Ireland had had a few incursions into the Scots’ ‘D’ but had been fairly easily stopped in their tracks by the defence, saving a penalty corner on the way.

Late on in the match Scotland were awarded a string of four penalty corners and, although the set-up and execution of each one was unique, they couldn’t find the back of the net for a third goal and the match finished 2-1 to Scotland.

After the match a brief word with Scotland coach, Gordon Shepherd, elicited his opinion that while they’ll take it, given the first half performance, Ireland deserved the win and things would need to improve for the third and final match.

Images from the match will appear here over the coming week.

Locals continue campaign opposing demolition of bungalow in Allan Park

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The campaign goes on for the local campaign group called Save Allan Park.

The council’s Development Management Committee meets tomorrow morning to discuss the application for planning permission at Allan Park Crescent which would allow a bungalow to be demolished to allow an access roadway to be formed to a site bounded by the railway line to the north and Meggetland to the south-east.

Just under 1700 people raised an objection to this application but if the council officers get their way then these objections will be disregarded. The main grounds of objection were loss of housing, the inappropriate use of land in a residential area, safety concerns about the cycle path, flooding and parking.

The demolition of number 25 would break the line of houses along the eastern side of the crescent but would allow the developer of the site behind to proceed with their plans for a new care home and residential development of 14 houses. The access roadway would cross a public footpath and cycle route which lies behind the houses and which links Meggetgate to the Union Canal.

The council report says that as the care home is a suitable distance from the houses on Allan Park Crescent there will be no detrimental effect from the new houses overshadowing what is already there. The council officers also claim that although the demolition of number 25 would interrupt the street it would not have an unacceptable impact on the character of the area as it will unlock the site for development.

The group plan to protest outside the City Chambers tomorrow morning and they have some fairly high profile supporters.

The Council Leader Andrew Burns is one of the local councillors and he told The Edinburgh Reporter this morning: ” I remain very opposed to this proposal to demolish a perfectly good house, simply to allow access to develop a site which already has an existing planning approval and an alternative access. If approved, I believe this current application would set a shocking precedent, and on Wednesday I’ll be strongly urging Committee to reject it.”

Alison Johnstone Scottish Green MSP for Lothian said: “This application should be refused for a whole host of reasons. The development will worsen congestion and air pollution on already busy roads, there is a lack of information on flood risk, and the new access road will compromise a popular cycleway and footpath which give safe access to the canal.

“It’s incredible that demolishing a perfectly good house in a long established residential area is even being considered. The Planning Officer’s report appears to have been written in a vacuum, taking no account of the material objections of the hundreds who wrote in opposition to this application.

“I hope that the 1,693 objections are given full consideration and that the Committee are convinced to oppose the officer’s recommendations. We must not destroy amenity and degrade residents’ quality of life in order to approve this flawed application.

“Over more than a decade open space in this area has been gradually eroded, an issue that prompted me to first get involved in politics. Further development creep must be resisted to protect what is a valuable local amenity for residents.”

The campaigners have been led by Gail Redpath who lives adjacent to the house which could be knocked down. The group believe that the house was sold to the developers as local pressure increased.

The council report states that the proposed development will not have any appreciable impact on the existing road network, yet when we spoke to the local residents this was the main ground on which they really object to the planning application.

The council will ask the developers for a contribution of £2000 towards the realignment of the footpath and the cycle track which the access roadway will cross. The matter will be heard at the Development Management Committee meeting which you can watch live here from 10am on Wednesday 4 November 2015.

Watch our video interviews here:

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What’s on in Edinburgh? The British Universities Dry Slope Championships

So maybe we won’t have snow like the Alps but the ski slope at Hillend has been the training ground of many great skiers from the Edinburgh area.

Thousands of skiing enthusiasts are expected at Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend this weekend for the prestigious British Universities Dry Slope Championships.

The event takes place on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 November. Everyone is welcome (entry fee £3 per person) to go and watch although remember the slopes and tubing runs will be closed during the event.

Councillor Derek Rosie, the cabinet member for sport and leisure at Midlothian Council, said: “The national championships produce a very high standard of competition, including events such as Slalom, Giant Slalom, Freestyle, Dual Slalom and the spectacular Big Air.

“It’s a huge event and getting bigger by the year. We’re all very excited to be hosting it at our flagship facility, which is the longest dry ski slope in Europe.

“Please come along and watch. For those who have not been before, we think you’ll be impressed by not just the snowsports but by the centre too.”

Facilities at Midlothian Snowsports Centre include the cafe and:

• An additional 210-metre slope on the hill
• 240 metres of snowtubing runs
• 60 metres of nursery slopes with safe ski matting
• Extended and improved nursery slopes
• A travellator uplift systems

Midlothian Council owns and runs the Snowsports Centre. Just three years ago it worked with an expert team of designers on the improvements, which were funded by a £533,000 investment from Sports Scotland, the national agency for sport, and an injection of funds from the Boyd Anderson Trust.

Bonfire safety advice from SFRS

2011_09_04 The Edinburgh Reporter Festival Fireworks 164 If you’re going to enjoy fireworks then The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) would like you to enjoy them at organised Guy Fawkes events to help ensure firefighters are able to quickly get to where they are needed.

Illegal bonfires and do-it-yourself fireworks displays can also go wrong in an instant and SFRS is clear everyone has a role to play in protecting their community.

Assistant Chief Officer Lewis Ramsay, the SFRS Director of Prevention and Protection, said: “We want everyone who celebrates Bonfire Night to have a great time without inviting trauma and tragedy.

“The best thing people can do to keep themselves, their families and others safe is to choose only to attend official and organised events, which are also far more spectacular than any do-it-yourself fireworks display or an illegal bonfire.

“Choosing to attend only official events helps to protect the wider community by ensuring resources aren’t tied-up at needless incidents when they could be needed at a real emergency.”

SFRS crews can be four times busier on 5 November than at any other night of the year and the service typically sees a 40 per cent increase in emergency calls throughout the Bonfire period.

While the service always has the resources needed to respond to emergencies, firefighters could have to be sent greater distances if nearby crews are dealing with bonfires.

ACO Ramsay explained: “When someone is trapped in a fire or after a serious collision on the roads then it’s vital firefighters can get to them quickly.

“Having to attend an unsafe bonfire means at least one crew is unavailable to respond to real emergencies, which could result in tragedy if someone urgently needs help.”

As well as choosing to attend only official events this year, people are also being urged to report the build-up of unsafe bonfires or bonfire materials and the illegal sale of fireworks.

ACO Ramsay added: “Everyone has a part to play in protecting our communities and there are things we can all do to prevent emergencies from happening in the first place.

“It’s against the law for fireworks to be sold to children and young people so if anyone is aware of this happening then they should report it to Police Scotland or Trading Standards.

“We would also encourage the public to report any unsafe or dangerous bonfires, or the build-up of bonfire materials, so that everyone can have fun without experiencing the horrible consequences of things going wrong.”

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

Daren Mochrie, Director of Service Delivery at the Scottish Ambulance Service said: “Every year our ambulance crews and hospital departments treat people for severe burns and other firework night related injuries.

“Fireworks are safe when used properly but the consequences can be tragic and life changing if the appropriate precautions are not followed and we recommend that people go along to a professionally organised display.”

In the event of someone suffering from a burn or scald, the advice from the ambulance service is for people to act quickly and:

– Stop the burning process as soon as possible. Do not put yourself at risk!

– Use cool water to cool a burn and reduce pain (no more than 30 mins of cooling and be aware of hypothermia due to prolonged cooling).

– Remove clothing and jewellery but do not remove burnt clothing that has stuck to skin.

– Do not use any creams or oils on injuries. Cover with a clean dressing or ideally cling film

The majority of minor burns and scalds can be treated at home and if unsure you can contact NHS 24 on www.nhs24.com/SelfHelpGuide or phone 111 for further advice. If injuries are serious, seek urgent medical help and call 999 and ask for ambulance.

Chief Superintendent Paul Main, Head of Safer Communities for Police Scotland, said: “This is a time of year when we can all stay safe, enjoy the traditions and have fun. The best way of doing this is to attend local organised official bonfire events.

“Remember it is against the law for fireworks to be sold to children and young people. If you have any concerns about this report them to Police Scotland by calling 101.

“Enjoy the fireworks but do it safely and that way we can all stay safe help reduce the number of unnecessary call outs for Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”

SFRS has produced guidance and safety tips about Bonfire Night 2015, available below.

The advice includes information about bonfire and fireworks safety, with a downloadable bonfire and fireworks safety leaflet available, along with links to TV, radio and press advertisements.

SFRS will be offering tips on staying safe in the lead up to Bonfire Night through its Facebook page and the @scotfire_east Twitter account.

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Hibernian Ladies 4-1 Spartans Ladies

Hibernian Ladies beat city rivals Spartans 4-1 on Sunday to complete their Scottish Women’s Premier League campaign

Liz Tweedie scored twice then Kirsty Smith made it 3-0 before Katie Reilly pulled one back. Siobhan Hunter made it 4-1 near the end.

Afterwards manager Chris Roberts told the club website: “It was a nice way to finish the league season and it was nothing less than we deserved.

“Spartans’ goal was probably their only shot on target as we had a lot of possession but were not as cut-throat as we have been in front of goal.

“Next weekend’s cup final was in the back of everyone’s mind so it was pleasing to come through it without picking up any knocks.

“Today was a reward for Ellis (Notely) (who made her debut) for all her hard work. She was fantastic, getting stuck in and showing a fantastic range of passing.

“I’m proud of the number of players promoted from our academy to the first team over the years and it is something we will continue to do.”

Hibernian: Fife, Smith, Hunter, Murray, Williamson, Robertson, Arthur, Richards, Harrison, Tweedie, Arnot. Substitutes: Brownlie, Notely, Heron.

Spartans: Cumings, Mawson, Barnes, Beveridge, Douglas, Reilly, Marshall, Crosbie, Russell, Mason, Ewens. Substitutes: Simpson, Pagliarulo, Agbemedinao, Herlet.

The girls face Glasgow City in the Women’s Scottish Cup final this weekend at at Ainslie Park which is live on BBC Alba.

Borders Railway – a platform for tourism

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A Borders Railway Tourism Opportunities Guide will be launched tomorrow Wednesday 4 November at a special event for tourism businesses in Midlothian.

Borders Railway - Your next stop for fun things to do

The guide will provide a range of market information, case studies, examples of tourism collaboration in practice and tips on how businesses can develop to capitalise on increased tourism activity as a result of the Borders Railway.

The guide has been developed by Scottish Enterprise, Midlothian Council and Scottish Borders Council as part of the Borders Railway Blueprint commitments.

It will be launched at a free event at the National Mining Museum, Newtongrange on Wednesday 4 November from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said: “I am delighted that business tourism in Midlothian and the Scottish Borders has reported significant growth since the Borders Railway and the Borders Railway Tourism Opportunities Guide will help this continue.

“From carrying around 6,200 passengers on 17 steam train journeys to 4 out 5 shops in Galashiels reporting a doubling of takings, the Borders Railway is breathing new life into the region.

“The Borders Railway has clearly struck a chord with local communities and tourists from across the world alike providing them with opportunities to enjoy the many wonderful attractions and experiences the Borders has to offer and I look forward to its continuing success.”

Spaces at both events are limited. Places at the Newtongrange event can be reserved through the events page of Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce website – www.melcc.org.uk

Ex Hibs’ boss Alex Miller returns to St Mirren

Former Hibs’ manager Alex Miller has returned to St Mirren to help boss Ian Murray.

Miller was in charge at Easter Road from 1986 – 1996 having taken over from John Blackley. He led the team to the 1991 Skol League Cup win over Dunfermline before eventually being replaced by Jim Duffy.

After leaving Hibs, Miller had a spell in charge of Aberdeen before working for Premier League side Liverpool for nine years assisting both Gerard Houllier and Rafael Benitez and was with the club when they won the Champions’ League, beating AC Milan on penalties in 2005.

Yesterday he told the club website: I agreed to come and help St Mirren as they gave me my first opportunity to manage in the Premier League, also to assist Ian Murray who is a young manager making his way in the game.”

Former Hibs’ skipper Murray said: “I am very happy to have someone of Alex’ experience beside me and this will give myself and the squad a huge lift.”

Miller is expected to meet the players at training this morning.

Woman assaulted at Michael Jackson themed event

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in New Market Road on Friday evening.

The incident occurred at a Michael Jackson themed event at The Corn Exchange about 11.30pm on Friday 30th October.

A 29-year-old woman was struck with a glass object causing a significant injury to her face.

Officers are urging anyone with information that can assist them with their inquiries to please get in touch.

They are particularly keen to speak to two women who left the premises immediately after the incident.

The women are described as being white and in their early twenties. One is about 5ft 9in tall and slim-built and the other around 5ft 6in tall and of average build. Both were wearing distinctive clothing – black military style “Michael Jackson ” jackets, black hot pants, white knee length socks, black shoes and hats.

Detective Constable Joyce Gunderson said: “I am keen to hear from anybody who witnessed the assault or who saw these women.

“Similarly, I would also urge both women to come forward and assist with our ongoing inquiries.”

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

Five things you need to know today Edinburgh!

Scot:Lands entertainment announced

At Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

Wheelchairs on the Beach

Arrests after Morningside Drive break-in

Edinburgh winners in National Writing Competition

Fiona Hyslop, Pete Irvine, Rachel McCrum and Jenny Lindsay from Rally & Broad launch the Scot-Lands programme for 1 January c Lloyd Smith

Organisers have announced the full-line up for Scot:Lands, the exclusive pop-up festival within a festival, on 1 January 2016. Now in its third year, and an integral part of the three day Edinburgh’s Hogmanay which is produced on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council by Unique Events, Scot:Lands is supported by the Scottish Government’s Edinburgh Festivals Expo Fund.

An essential component of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, Scot:Lands takes over New Year’s Day as a multi-arts festival in its own right and, as can be seen by the programme announced, offers a scintillating selection of the best of Scotland’s artistic talent – intriguing, provocative, sometimes reflective; always entertaining.

With many of the performances created or re-imagined exclusively for Scot:Lands, this pop-up Festival offers one chance, on one afternoon only, for audiences to enjoy an extraordinary collection of spoken word, dance, music and film, fashioned and curated by some of Scotland’s most innovative artists and arts organisations.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has New Year’s Day all ready for you

Pete Irvine, Director of Edinburgh's Hogmanay and Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, launch Scot-Lands - the pop up, Multi Arts festival for 1 January c Lloyd Smith On the first day of the year it is no longer any problem finding something to entertain you and your nearest and dearest, if you live in Edinburgh.

Leave those who wish to linger in their beds at home and get out to Scot:Lands now described as a Festival within a Festival.

The all-important element of chance returns again this year, as audiences ‘check in’ at the Departure Lounge in the University of Edinburgh’s Old College, before spinning a compass to discover their first destination on a randomly, tantalisingly selected, unpredictable journey through eleven hidden Edinburgh Old Town venues – some familiar and some unknown and rarely accessible to the public.

They might alight on Blazin:Land, presented by renowned fiddle collective Blazin’ Fiddles who will be joined by some very special guests including Rachel Sermanni and Adam Holmes; or be transported to the Isle of Skye in Blue Skye:Land where they will be treated to captivating musical and performance pieces including the UK premiere of a collaboration between beatboxer Jason Singh and Gaelic vocalist Anne Martin. Sea Bird:Land will introduce a reconfigured live performance of Dalziel + Scullion’s mesmerising, multi-media art installation, Tumadh is Turas: Immersion & Journey, in a hauntingly atmospheric venue with a live soundtrack from Aidan O’Rourke, Graeme Stephen and John Blease.

Elsewhere Coorie-In:Land will introduce an exhilarating menu of lyrical delight and artsy mischief curated by Edinburgh literary duo Rally & Broad; Licht:Land will offer a celebration of light at the gateway to the New Year with puppetry, live music and storytelling while Lyrical:Land will bring together some of Scotland’s foremost singer/songwriters with intimate performances from Kathryn Joseph, Mercury Prize nominated C Duncan, Roddy Woomble and poet Michael Pedersen amongst others. Cine:Land will mark 70 pioneering years of the Edinburgh International Film Festival with a labyrinth of mini-cinemas showing award-winning short films in a celebration of Scotland on the big screen; and Glasgow’s Chemikal Underground will celebrate their 20th anniversary in Chemikal:Land featuring live performances from R M Hubbert, Emma Pollock and Miaoux Miaoux. Curious Seed will create a mesmerising, immersive and improvised new dance work for the turn of the year, which will be accompanied by live music from Luke Sutherland in d’Arc:Land and dropping in from Aviemore The Insider Festival will recreate the essence of an outdoor festival in an indoor venue – Insider:Land – with a distillation of music, food and drink from the Inver Restaurant and performances from Admiral Fallow, Blue Rose Code, Findlay Napier and BEAM.

For the first time, a Land has been specially created for families and children under 10. WeeScot:Land will offer a theatre show as well as arts and crafts, balloons, face-painting, storytelling, music and street performance in the most unexpected forms at the National Museum of Scotland, presented by Festival partners Pleasance KidZone and National Museums Scotland.

At the end of the afternoon, as all other Lands draw to a close, audiences are invited to come, or come back to, the National Museum of Scotland for The Final Fling, the closing event of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2015/16 with music and Ceilidh Callers from Edinburgh’s top ceilidh outfit, the Portobello Ceilidh Band.

Scot:Lands has become increasingly popular every year, but places are limited. Tickets are free and from today, Monday 2 November 2015, are available from www.edinburghshogmanay.com.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is a three day Festival and starts on Wednesday 30 December with the Torchlight Procession. On Thursday 31 December the world famous Street Party, Concert in the Gardens and Old Town Ceilidh will welcome 75,000 revellers to the city centre, and in addition to Scot:Lands on Friday 1 January, the Stoats Loony Dook will see over 1000 Dookers take a chilly dip in the River Forth under the shadow of the world famous Bridges. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is a key part of Scotland’s Winter Festivals celebrations.

Tickets for Scot:Lands, which are free, are available from www.edinburghshogmanay.com. Tickets for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens are already sold-out. Tickets for the world famous Street Party, The Old Town Ceilidh, and pre-booked Torches for the Torchlight Procession, are on sale now from www.edinburghshogmanay.com, by calling Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Box Office on 0844 573 8455 or by calling into the Hogmanay Box Office at The Fringe Office, 180 High Street, Edinburgh. Street Party tickets are priced at £25.00 (including booking fee). Early bird tickets for EH postcode residents are still available at £19.00 (including booking fee). Old Town Ceilidh Tickets are priced at £45.00 (including Booking Fee). Torches for the Torchlight procession can be pre-booked (priced at £10.00) and registration for the Stoats Loony Dook is also open (£10.00 including booking fee and 10% donation to the South Queensferry branch of the RNLI).

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is produced on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council by Unique Events, working with partners Underbelly who present Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions and events.

Hockey – Scotland Women v Ireland Women, November Test Series

Scotland and Ireland draw first November Test

Scotland’s women are a third of the way through a three match Test series against Ireland’s women at the National Hockey Centre in Glasgow, coming from behind to draw level just before the break.

Right from the off, Ireland were all over the Scots and a goal after two minutes from Deirdre Duke put the visitors ahead. The ball was cleared from the outstretched Nicola Cochrane in Scotland’s goal out to Cliodhna Sargent who fired the ball back into the ‘D’ to Duke who slammed her shot across the goal and into the net past Cochrane to open the scoring. 1-0 Ireland.

Less than a minute later, Ireland were back, but this time Cochrane pulled off a save with her left glove and the defence could breathe again.

Scotland then won their first penalty corner of the match, but it wasn’t to be a day for corners and Ireland easily mopped up and battled clear, exerting pressure on the Scots’ defence right away.

Ireland won the first of their six penalty corners in the 16^th minute, but, once again, Cochrane saved – this time with her right foot – from a well executed play.

The home side were now beginning to get into the game and sending a lot of ball down the right, but neither side could make much of their possession until the 28^th minute when the visitors won another penalty corner. This time the strike on goal went in a waist level, but again, Cochrane was up to the task and a well positioned glove prevented a goal.

With three minutes left on the clock, Scotland found themselves in a good position down the left and a ball across the face of the goal was deflected past the ball-watching Stella Davis in the Irish goal by Rebecca Merchant to draw the sides level at 1-1 and take the match into the break.

The second half was a much more even affair with Ireland winning their other four penalty corners, but none were converted – Cochrane playing her part again for a couple. They were left to rue the missed chances as they didn’t look likely to score from open play, Scotland’s defence keeping the Irish outside the goal area most of the time.

Scotland, on the other hand looked far more dangerous in front of goal and Merchant was unlucky on a couple of occasions not to add to her tally. Like Cochrane, Davis was called upon to perform a couple of tremendous saves, the pick being a diving save to her left to prevent Merchant netting a second.

With two more matches to play in the series – Tuesday (12:00) and Wednesday (11:00) – it looks like a fine mini-series off matches and, with both sides fielding new caps, a good opportunity to blood new talent.

Images from the match will appear here sometime later this week.

Discount offer on tickets for the BBC Good Food Show Scotland

Mary Berry - malted chocolate cake Photography by Georgia Glynn Smith

The Good Food Show is taking place in Glasgow this weekend and the organisers have given The Edinburgh Reporter a unique discount code to get you a saving of 15% on your tickets. (see below)

There are two Edinburgh based chefs appearing at the show – Tom Kitchin and Neil Forbes who both run popular restaurants here in the capital – but Mary Berry will also be there. She designed and baked the lovely cake in our photo and here she is telling us what she does to prepare for going on stage.

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Be the first to whet your whistle and satisfy your taste buds at this year’s BBC Good Food Show Scotland! Steal ideas and taste delicious food from the best culinary talent the UK has to offer. The BBC Good Food Show Scotland 2015 will take place at the SECC, Glasgow from Friday 6th – Sunday 8th November. Doors will be open from 10am – 6pm on Friday and Saturday and from 10am – 5:30pm on Sunday.

Entertainment

Join some of Britain’s most popular chefs and be part of the exciting Supertheatre environment while learning tips and tricks from the experts. Mary Berry, Paul Hollywood, Michael Roux Jr. and James Martin are only a few of the amazing chefs who will be educating and entertaining throughout the weekend. The audience will get the chance to ask questions and interact with the chefs, which without a doubt will draw in huge crowds.

Inspiration

There are hundreds of culinary exhibitors joining BBC Good Food Show Scotland this year. Discover new brands, learn some genius tips and of course get the chance to taste their delicious produce for yourself.

VIP Treatment

If you prefer to be pampered and treated like a celebrity yourself, choose the VIP Package experience for the day. Choose from the best seats in the Supertheatre and get exclusive access to the VIP Lounge which features intriguing talks, tastings and demos. Indulge in delicious drinks, snacks, goodie bags and so much more!

Advanced tickets start at £16.25. Get yours online here today or call 0844 581 1362. Tickets are available at the door – but for some great deals see the BBC Good Food Show Scotland website.

The code you should use when booking your tickets online by clicking here is MVS18. Have fun!

Five things you need to know today in Edinburgh

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Same sex marriage for all
Serious assault on Easter Road
Photography Competition
Edinburgh Short Film Festival
Aberdeen Asset Management Foundation fund holidays for children

Civil partners registered elsewhere can now marry in Scotland.

Couples who have a civil partnership registered abroad or elsewhere in the UK can now marry in Scotland, thanks to an extension to existing legislation.

From today, civil partners registered outside Scotland will be able to change their relationship to a marriage by having a ceremony here. Previously, the legislation meant only civil partnerships registered in Scotland could be changed.

Scotland made same sex relationships just as valid as mixed sex relationships when it passed the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 in 2014. More than 1,000 same sex couples have now married in Scotland

Local Government Minister Marco Biagi said: “We are sending a powerful message out about the kind of country we are – one which is incredibly proud that same sex couples can show their love and commitment to each other by getting married.

“By passing historic legislation last year, and now extending it to include those who had a civil partnership outwith Scotland , we are demonstrating to the world how importantly Scotland views equality.”

Tim Hopkins, Director of the Equality Network, said: “We very much welcome this change, which is a small but important piece of unfinished business from the equal marriage legislation last year.

“Without this, same-sex couples living in Scotland who have registered a civil partnership outwith Scotland would be unable to marry in Scotland unless they live apart for a year first to dissolve their civil partnership. That’s obviously not an option for most couples, and now they will be able to marry in the usual way, changing their civil partnership directly to a marriage.

“The number of couples in this situation is relatively small, but the value of the change to them is huge.”

The Scottish Government is currently consulting on the future of civil partnerships in Scotland It closes on Tuesday 15 December at 5PM and can be accessed at https://consult.scotland.gov.uk/family-law/review-of-civil-partnership

There is no obligation on couples to change their civil partnership into a marriage which is a decision for individual couples.

Police in Edinburgh are looking for help from the public following a serious assault in the north of the City during the early hours of yesterday.

The incident happened shortly before 2:50am outside the Iceland supermarket on Easter Road near to its junction with London Road.

A 24-year-old man had been walking alone on London Road after a night out in the city centre and had turned left onto Easter Road when he became aware of a man and a woman walking behind him.

The male suspect engaged the man in conversation before punching him in the head in an apparently unprovoked attack.

The couple then continued northwards on Easter Road before going out of sight.

Paramedics from the Scottish Ambulance Service transported the male to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment to a head injury and he was later discharged.

Police are now appealing to anyone who may have seen the couple to come forward immediately.

The male suspect is described as white, around 5ft 8ins – 6ft tall, spoke with a Scottish accent, approximately 25 years old with short dark hair. He was possibly wearing a witch’s hat along with a red hooded top and dark jeans.

The female had been wearing a distinctive pink princess-style dress, believed to be around 20 years old with long curly blonde hair and carrying her shoes.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin MacLean of Police Scotland said: “It appears that this was a random and unprovoked attack and we are carrying out various lines of inquiry in order to trace the male responsible.

“Given the distinctive dress worn by the woman who was with the male at the time, I would hope that someone remembers seeing or speaking with them at some point during the evening.

“I ask anyone with such information to contact police on 101 or, alternatively the registered charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Picture Perfect! Edinburgh Bus Tours Launches Winter Season with New Photography Competition Edinburgh Bus Tours is challenging visitors and locals alike to capture the best vistas of Edinburgh’s historical skyline with a new photography competition. Kicking off today (Monday 2 November) and running until 4 January 2016, visitors can submit their best snaps via Facebook (facebook.com/edinburghtour) and Twitter (@edinburghtour), using the hashtag #wishyouwerehere. This marks the start of the company’s winter season where the green Edinburgh Tour, red City Sightseeing and blue and yellow Majestic Tour to Leith are available, with tours operating 364 days a year excluding 25 December. The lucky winner will have their sensational shot displayed in all of the Transport for Edinburgh group’s travel-shops, with a donation of £500also being made in their name to parent company, Lothian Buses’ charity of the year, Fresh Start. Neil Hanna Photography www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk 07702 246823 — Neil Hanna Photography
www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
07702 246823

Edinburgh Bus Tours is challenging visitors and locals alike to capture the best vistas of Edinburgh’s historical skyline with a new photography competition.

Kicking off today (Monday 2 November) and running until 4 January 2016, visitors can submit their best snaps via Facebook (facebook.com/edinburghtour) and Twitter (@edinburghtour), using the hashtag #wishyouwerehere.

This marks the start of the company’s winter season where the green Edinburgh Tour, red City Sightseeing and blue and yellow Majestic Tour to Leith are available, with tours operating 364 days a year excluding 25 December.

The lucky winner will have their sensational shot displayed in all of the Transport for Edinburgh group’s Travelshops, with a donation of £500 also being made in their name to parent company, Lothian Buses’ charity of the year, Fresh Start.

Just over a week till the launch of the Edinburgh Short Film Festival 2015. There will be 23 guests lined up ranging from all over the UK to Canada, the USA, Turkey, Mexico, Italy Germany and the Caribbean.

There’s pavement cinema, an award, guest curated programmes from the Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival and the Sardinia Film Festival and much more!

Full programme and tickets available online.

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Disadvantaged children living in Edinburgh have enjoyed well-deserved breaks – some going on the first holiday of their lives – through funding from the Aberdeen Asset Management Charitable Foundation.

Scottish children’s charity HopScotch secured £9,000 from the firm’s Charitable Foundation to enable 36 children to enjoy a total of 180 days of respite at its holiday centre in Ardvullin in the Scottish Highlands.

Middlefield 1 backdrop

A dozen children each from three organisations – Edinburgh Women’s Aid, Aberdeen’s Middlefield Community Project and Waverley Care in Edinburgh – were selected for the much-needed breaks. allowing them to spend time in safe and secure surroundings while escaping the stresses of home life and gaining and building confidence, in a caring and supportive environment.

Waverley Care works with children who are living with, and affected by, HIV/Hepatitis C in Edinburgh. Many of the families struggle to take youngsters on holiday due to poor health and financial constraints. Children live in stressful situations and often act as carers to their parents/younger siblings and rarely get the chance to socialise or form friendships.

Edinburgh Women’s Aid provides practical and emotional support to those who have been, or are, experiencing domestic abuse and many of the children will have witnessed abuse or even been abused themselves. Recovery is a lengthy process for some and an opportunity for a respite break is very beneficial in very many ways.

At Ardvullin the children try a range of activities like horse riding, canoeing and indoor climbing, boat trips, biking and visiting the beach.

One youngster who went to Ardvullin said: “I loved my Hopscotch holiday and didn’t want to leave.

I did lots of exciting things like hill climbing, walking in the forest, canoeing and lots more. I loved the big, massive swing park out the back garden. My favourite part was when I made it to the top of the hill and the snow was really, really deep.”

The Edinburgh-based charity’s 2015 programme has provided around 350 children with a respite break at Ardvullin and this year HopScotch has worked with organisations from the Highlands, Ayrshire, Strathclyde, Perthshire, Tayside, Lanarkshire, Midlothian and Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire to identify those children most in need.

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Holyrood announce increase in Living Wage

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The government says that a 40 pence increase in the Living Wage, calculated independently and set by the Living Wage Foundation in partnership with the Poverty Alliance, will benefit thousands of employees at Living Wage-accredited organisations in Scotland.

The announcement marks the start of Living Wage Week and has been welcomed by Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training Roseanna Cunningham.

To date more than 370 firms in Scotland have become accredited, with Living Wage Week 2015 expected to further raise awareness across the public, private and third sectors.

Ms Cunningham said: “This is an important landmark in our drive to improve the wages of our lowest-paid workers. With so many employers signing up in the last year alone, thousands of Scottish employees have received a pay rise, and today’s announcement will be further welcome news.

“With around 100 firms gathering for the UK’s first Living Wage Expo in Edinburgh last month, awareness of the Living Wage and its benefits to employers is clearly on the rise and I am confident that Scotland will have at least 500 accredited employers by March next year.

“Scottish Ministers will be closely involved with Living Wage Week 2015 and plan to visit a number of firms with more accreditations to follow. I would urge all employers to consider the Living Wage to help both their business and its employees.”

First scholarship awarded at CodeClan

ScotlandIS today announced the award of its CodeClan scholarship to Michael MacLeod, a freelance journalist and former TV producer with STV Edinburgh. You may recall he also worked as beatblogger at Guardian Edinburgh.

CodeClan is Scotland’s first digital skills academy and the ScotlandIS Scholarship was set up to fund one outstanding applicant through the academy’s ground-breaking coding course.

There was fierce competition for the award, which aims to increase access to the CodeClan CX3 course. It was open to applicants who had not been to university and had not worked in an IT or software career to date.

Before winning the scholarship, Michael had an interest in coding and taught himself the basics whilst working as a journalist. He made the decision to leave his full time job to pursue this further.

Commenting on the news, Michael said: “I am delighted to have won this scholarship and to have a place at CodeClan. I’m really looking forward to the intensive learning ahead. I see coding as a force for good and a means of vastly expanding my horizons after I graduate from the course.”

ScotlandIS is the trade body for the digital technologies industry in Scotland and it created the fully funded award to support CodeClan’s drive to get more coders into the workplace.

Polly Purvis, CEO of ScotlandIS, said: “We are very pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to Michael which means he can take up his place at CodeClan. With strong industry growth forecast for the coming year, there has been no better time to get involved in Scotland’s digital technologies industry than now. Initiatives like CodeClan provide an ideal ‘way in’ to those who want to be part of our vibrant digital technologies sector.”

ScotlandIS has been campaigning for a number of years to encourage more coders into the workplace. In a recent survey, ScotlandIS forecast strong growth for the industry after research revealed that 83% of organisations plan to increase staff numbers in the coming year.

Concerned that the shortage of skilled professionals threatens the growth of the industry, ScotlandIS is confident that practical solutions such as CodeClan will address this skills shortage and help the industry to flourish and benefit the economy.

Officially opened in October by Scotland’s Deputy First Minister John Swinney, CodeClan aims to draw on the pool of talented individuals who have a natural aptitude for coding and give them the skills required to get started in a career in the Scottish digital technologies industry.

CodeClan Chief Executive, Harvey Wheaton, said: “It’s great to be able to welcome Michael into the second cohort. He’s an excellent candidate and a perfect fit for what we’re trying to achieve here at CodeClan. We have seen a very high level of interest with applicants coming from a wide range of backgrounds. The first cohort is now well underway and we can’t wait to kick off the second wave in November.”

Currently based in the UK’s largest tech incubator, CodeBase, the 16 week immersive coding course covers programming and software development. CodeClan also provides opportunities for students to network and work on the interpersonal skills to prepare them for a business environment.

The academy has a fresh intake of students every 10 weeks with the next closing date for applications in mid January 2016. To find out more about CodeClan or to apply visit www.codeclan.com