A new law introducing life sentences for traffickers has been introduced in Scotland for the very first time.

The Scottish Parliament passed the Scottish Government’s Human Trafficking and Exploitation Bill yesterday evening.

It will clarify and strengthen criminal law by introducing a new single human trafficking offence to bring those responsible for human trafficking and exploitation to justice as well as guaranteeing victims support.

The Bill also:

• gives adult victims of trafficking rights to access support and assistance, similar to those already in place for child victims
• ensures instructions setting out how prosecutors should deal with the victims of trafficking and exploitation who are forced to commit crime as a direct result of their victim status
• strengthens protections for eligible vulnerable children by making independent child trafficking guardians available and requiring statutory referrals
• requires Scottish Ministers to work with other bodies to publish and keep under review a Scottish Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson, said: “Victims of human trafficking and exploitation can face horrendous suffering and there is no place for it in modern society. That is why I am delighted that the new laws introduced by this Government will protect those subjected to these terrible crimes while ensuring those who seek to peddle human misery face the toughest possible penalties.

“Scotland’s law enforcement agencies now have greater tools in their armoury to bring those responsible for human trafficking and exploitation to justice. Previously, criminal law against trafficking and exploitation was spread across different legislation but our new law will provide consistency and give our police and prosecutors a clearer set of guidelines around how to track down and prosecute criminals.

“We know, however, that legislation alone will not help to identify potential victims. That’s why, alongside these new laws, we’re also developing a Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy and building on the work already undertaken to increase public awareness, training for front-line staff and engagement with businesses to help spot the signs of potential trafficking and exploitation.

“Ultimately, our collective efforts are sending a strong signal that Scotland is a hostile place for those who seek to peddle human misery. We simply will not tolerate the trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable adults and children in this country.”

Police Scotland Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone added:

“We welcome the new Human Trafficking legislation which we are confident will provide all agencies with the legislative framework to more effectively tackle this despicable crime and better support victims.

“Trafficking is challenging to identify in the many different forms it sadly exists, but also challenging and complex to prevent and to investigate. Most investigations are protracted and cross borders, nationally and internationally, as people are moved around.

“Those who are trafficked are extremely vulnerable and are at risk of being exploited relentlessly by criminal gangs who prey on them for the sole purpose of making money.

“Trafficking is unacceptable. We will target those who trade in human beings and we will work with partners to ensure victims have the support they need.

“This new law sends a clear signal to those who choose to exploit and enslave others, that we are committed to ending this horrific crime and that we will pursue those responsible to bring them to justice.”

Ann Fehilly, Head of Strategic Services for Glasgow City Council’s TARA Service added: “Today is a major step forward in the effort to tackle human trafficking and exploitation in Scotland and we are particularly pleased that the new act will give us a legal basis on which to provide support and protection for survivors of human trafficking. This will be an invaluable tool in our work to encourage victims to come forward to seek protection and begin their journey from victims to survivors.”

John Merralls, Migrant Help’s UK head of human trafficking said: “We warmly welcome the Scottish Government’s action to address this horrific crime. It underlines their intent to pursue, prosecute and disrupt the criminals and the severe consequences they face. Migrant Help has been supporting the victims in Scotland since the implementation of the National Referral Mechanism in 2009 and we will continue to offer professional assistance to victims of human trafficking and exploitation.”

A report relating to catchment boundary changes for Towerbank Primary School recommends an option which would guarantee sibling places in future.

The Council held a statutory consultation as the school was identified as having capacity issues from August 2016 onwards due to the rising number of pupils.

Four different options for catchment change were put forward and the public were able to submit their views from 8 May until 22 June.

In total 428 responses were received with a clear majority of 65% wanting option four which also provides a guarantee of places at Towerbank Primary School being available for younger siblings in the future.

Full details of the recommended option and how it will be implemented are contained in the report. The recommendation will now be discussed by the City of Edinburgh Council meeting on Thursday, 22 October.

Cllr Paul Godzik, Education Convener, said: “Throughout this process we have listened to the views of parents and the vast majority of replies have shown a desire for the option which gives a sibling guarantee.  The Council will now discuss the report later this month and come to a decision.”

Currently there are around 29,000 primary school pupils in Edinburgh but latest estimates show this will rise to 31,700 by 2020 and then increase further to 35,400 by 2030.

Hearts Head Coach Robbie Neilson has been given a two-match suspended ban for comments he made about referee Willie Collum after Hearts Ladbrokes SPFL Premiership game against Hamilton on 29 August.

As the ban is suspended, Neilson will only serve the suspension if he breaches league rule 72 again before the end of the current season.

The Gorgie Gaffer commented after the match that Collum had been wrong to send off Hearts defender Callum Paterson.

And he said his Hearts squad had trained with 10 men to prepare for a red card.

The Scottish Football Association’s compliance officer issued a notice of complaint for a breach of disciplinary rule 72, stating of Neilson that “in an interview with the BBC you criticised the performance of the Match Officials in such a way as to indicate bias or incompetence on their part”.

Hearts appeal against the notice was rejected when the disciplinary tribunal met on Thursday.

However, the fact Paterson’s red card was rescinded by the SFA days after the incident and the footballing chiefs have seen fit to serve Robbie Neilson with only a suspended sentence speaks volumes. Whether referee Willie Collum has been punished remains unknown.

At the beginning of October Jarred Christmas, the New Zealander, with the generous sideburns, the glasses and the microphone, is back, bringing a truly electric comedy set to Edinburgh.

Laying his comedy smack down in the form of energetic storytelling, pumped full of passion, charisma and community banter, Christmas will headline a stellar comedy line up at Gilded Balloon Comedy at The Studio on Saturday 10 October 2015.

Joining the Christmas party will be Chris Macarthur-Boyd.  Compering will be Scotland’s rapidly ascending Glasgow comic, Ray Bradshaw, one of the funniest and most exciting acts on the UK comedy scene, with an unmistakable talent for the left field, and the joke with a sting in it’s tail.

Jarred Christmas’s strong and distinctive comedy, that sizzles with originality, is a hilarious thrill ride of laughs and gasps with an edge of anger that manifests itself in his incredible rants against the small things in our lives.  Issues will be dealt with, feelings will be kicked in the teeth, current affairs will be smacked round the head, hype will be used and tall tales will be told.  Christmas has the jokes, he has the stories, he has the energy, he has the dynamic onstage persona and he has the ability to improvise and roll with anything that’s thrown his way -everything needed to ensure the good times flow non-stop.

Jen Brister’s hilariously evocative character sketches display a flair for cartoonish exaggeration and a mastery of both physical comedy and timing.  Having been brought up to ignore the national skills of low talking, passive aggression and queuing, Jen finds herself without the necessary British skills to survive.  She’s now on the cusp of turning 40 and, with the voice of a megaphone and the subtlety of a brick, she’s belatedly airing her frustrations and voicing her anger.

In his early twenties, Chris Macarthur-Boyd is establishing himself as one of Scotland’s comedy gems, mastering side-splitting self-deprecation with enviable ease.  It can be said that MacArthur-Boyd is up-and-coming, in as much as it would be impossible for him to go downhill.… He still lives at home with his mum and dad and is unemployed!  Chris reached the finals of So You Think You’re Funny and Scottish Comedian of the Year 2014 as well as being nominated for Best New Scottish comedian at the Scottish Variety Awards.

Ray Bradshaw, the jovial and friendly people’s comedian, has travelled the length and breadth of the country telling jokes to anyone that will listen and has produced stand-out festival performances at T in the Park and RockNess.

Gilded Balloon Comedy at Drygate brings together the very best craft beer, fearless food for the soul and strong intelligent comedy with a quality blend of up and coming comedians and the finest established comics in an intimate comedy club.

The Gilded Balloon at The Studio at the Festival Theatre is a new comedy club for Edinburgh. It is staged in the exciting, intimate and flexible studio space, perfectly suited to stand up, and features a line-up of popular Scottish, UK and international comedic talent.

For further information on Gilded Balloon Comedy at Drygate and Gilded Balloon Comedy at The Studio at The Festival Theatre go to: http://www.gildedballoon.co.uk

Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is getting glam this October, in honour of the brand’s 16^th annual PINKTOBER® campaign!

On Thursday 22 October 2015, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh will be hosting a Pink Day, transforming the cafe with all things pink! With all staff dressed in pink, there will even be a pop-up salon hosted by the pink ladies from PinUps Vintage Salon – customers will be able to pop in for a ‘hair-over’ with stylists on hand from midday – 5pm.

The event will benefit and support the Caron Keating Foundation, raising funds and awareness for breast cancer research.

The world-famous Hard Rock brand is thinking pink in support of the 16^th Annual PINKTOBER^TM campaign. Throughout the month of October, guests can show their support for a cause that affects millions by visiting Hard Rock properties around the world and purchasing pink merchandise, pink drinks and pink hotel amenities. Proceeds from PINKTOBER will benefit research and awareness-driving efforts for the Caron Keating Foundation.

A minimum donation of £10.00 will be requested for a ‘hair-over’

All funds to be donated to the Caron Keating Foundation

CALA Homes (East) is launching its first Edinburgh city centre apartment development in years this Saturday with an on-trend hotspot offering next level living for house-hunters.

The upmarket housebuilder will launch Ten Brunswick Road this weekend, with the properties located just off Elm Row, at the top of Leith Walk in Edinburgh, offering doorstep access to world famous attractions and vibrant, cosmopolitan nightlife.

Situated within the grounds of the previous General Post Office building on Brunswick Road, the brownfield site development will offer a varied selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, providing high quality living in a convenient locale for buyers across the capital.

Ten Brunswick Road’s prime setting boasts unrivalled access to some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks and host of amenities, with the famous castle and Calton Hill as well as the Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverley Train Station all within walking distance.

With the world famous Princes Street and George Street just minutes away, Michelin-starred restaurants, lively bars and extensive shopping opportunities are all close at hand as well as rapid transport links for those looking for swift and easy access across the city.

The apartments offer spacious layouts and light-filled interiors and have all been designed with flexible living in mind, with generous lounges, stylish kitchen areas and convenient en-suites in most master bedrooms. The vast majority also enjoy attractive balconies, terraces or garden areas as well as communal open space.

Sarah Stanger, Sales and Marketing Director at CALA Homes (East), is encouraging house-hunters to register their interest now in order to secure one of the first apartments to be released at the sought-after location.

She said: “We are very excited about the launch of the first release at Ten Brunswick Road this weekend and have had a great response so far from buyers looking for contemporary city centre living.

“The chance to live in a CALA apartment within the city centre doesn’t come along very often and to have all that the Capital has to offer on your door step makes this the perfect development for those working or studying in the city centre.

“With 132 apartments being developed in total, Ten Brunswick Road will have a lot to offer and we would encourage anyone interested to come along and find out more.”

The Sales Area at Ten Brunswick Road will launch on 3^rd October with its first phase, the two and three bedroom Calton Apartments, with prices from £255,000.

For further information or to register your interest, call 07825283963 or visit the official website http://www.cala.co.uk.homes-for-sale/east-of-scotland/ten-brunswick-road

As the leaves turn a coppery glow this autumn, One Square is bringing the fruity flavours of an Orchard to the heart of the city with a unique Orchard Afternoon Tea. You can win Afternoon Tea for two courtesy of One Square by clicking here.

The traditional fruit harvest season has inspired One Square’s talented Pastry team who are renowned for creating an inventive afternoon tea, with a twist. The Orchard Afternoon Tea combines fruit with savoury delicacies including orange poached Loch Duart salmon with burnt clementines on rye, and slow cooked Gressingham duck & sweet cherry compote on toasted thyme brioche.

For those who enjoy the sweeter delights of afternoon tea, guests will savour an apple sorbet lollipop made with locally-brewed Thistly Cross Cider, along with a toffee apple cream slice. The ubiquitous scone has not been forgotten with a traditional plain variety mixed in with kirsch soaked cherry, served with Devonshire clotted cream and blackcurrant jam.

To wash it down, One Square’s bar team has created a choice of two fruity gin cocktails including an Orchard Mimosa with ginger and fresh orange, topped with Thistly Cross Elderflower Cider. While the Secret Garden features lime juice, elderflower and strawberries, topped with Thistly Cross Strawberry Cider.

This indulgent culinary treat is available, daily, in One Square, between 2.30pm and 5.30pm, throughout October and November, and costs £25 per person including a gin cocktail (add £3.85 to include a choice of enveloped or loose leaf tea, traditionally prepared at the table). To book, please call 0131 221 6422 or visit www.OneSquareEdinburgh.co.uk for more details.

One Square, 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR

Police are looking to trace two suspects in connection with an on Wednesday night, September 30.

The incident happened at around 6:45pm when a 35-year-old man was walking his dog on Corstorphine Hill.

The man entered from Balgreen Road and had made his way around 300 metres up the path when two men approached him from behind. They proceeded to barge into him before snatching his mobile phone from his hand.

Both suspects wore dark clothing and were last seen making off towards the summit of Corstorphine Hill.

The victim was unhurt and did not require medical treatment.

Police are now appealing to anyone who has information about this incident to come forward.

Detective Constable Gavin Howat who is leading the investigation, said: “Corstorphine Hill is a popular destination for walkers and given the mild weather conditions on this particular evening I would expect there to be a number of people in the area.

“I am today asking anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in or around this location or who has any relevant information to please come forward immediately.”

Those with information are asked to contact police on 101 or, alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault within a city-centre pub which  happened around 10.15pm yesterday at the Three Sisters on the Cowgate.

A 23-year-old man was with a group of friends in the bar when they became involved in a verbal altercation with a number of men at a neighbouring table.

During this time a glass was thrown, which struck the victim to the side of the head. He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment to injuries to his head and ear.

The suspects all left before police arrived and officers are now urging anyone who can help identify them to come forward.

Detective Constable Iain Wallace said: “Both groups had been singing football songs and this escalated resulting in a glass being thrown at the victim causing him injury”

“At the moment we have no description of the suspects, so we are therefore keen to hear from any other patrons who were within the Three Sisters pub on Wednesday evening and who can help us trace these individuals”

“In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this inquiry is also asked to contact police immediately”

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

Police in Edinburgh have confirmed  that a 39-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the serious assault of a 54-year-old cyclist.

The incident occurred on Friday, September 25 on Ferry Road, Edinburgh.   He will appear at court at a later date.

Anyone who wants to report an offence in their area or has information on a crime can contact police on 101, speak to any officer or provide intelligence in confidence to the registered charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, has today launched a new customer initiative called Flybe FareCracker.  Each month, Flybe will offer customers a five-day window of opportunity to buy low-cost fares for upcoming flights, a list of which is easily accessed via the special FareCracker icon at www.flybe.com. Deals can be found quickly and easily as available FareCracker fares are clearly highlighted.

The first FareCracker deals are on sale now featuring thousands of seats on routes across the airline’s extensive network.  Seats are available for booking through to 5th October, and will be effective for travel between 3rd November and 1st December, 2015.

Promoted on Flybe.com and selected digital channels, FareCracker is specifically targeted at those leisure travellers who have the freedom to fly off-peak during the week and by those planning last minute weekend getaways.

FareCracker deals are only available on Just Fly tickets; hold luggage and specific seat allocation can be purchased to supplement this ticket type if needed.

Full details and terms and conditions of FareCracker are available at www.flybe.com

Police Scotland and family members are growing concerned for the welfare of Kristian Lee Wilson  from Corsock in Dumfries and Galloway.  Kristian, who is 41 years old, was last seen in Edinburgh on Tuesday 22 September 2015.  There has been no contact with him since.  Kristian is described as being about 6’ tall, medium build with hazel eyes and receding short blond hair. When last seen was last seen wearing a blue fleece, blue jeans brown shoes and a brown anorak.

Constable Alan Davidson of Police Scotland at Castle Douglas said “Anyone who may have spoken to Kristian recently, or knows of his current whereabouts is asked to contact us through the 101 system.”

VisitScotland has revealed the winning logo design for Scotland’s forthcoming Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design this morning.

The marque was inspired by the linear style of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the curvature of the Möbius Strip, and Dutch artist M.C Escher’s visual illusions and endless lines.

Designed by 23 year old graphic designer Maria Garcia Tena from Edinburgh, the winning submission, which will be used in VisitScotland marketing and promotional activity, celebrates the three themes of 2016 using an eye-catching and contemporary approach.

The design was unveiled to over 250 tourism business contacts gathering for the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design Industry Launch at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

Maria’s entry was chosen by a judging panel consisting of representatives from VisitScotland, Architecture + Design Scotland, Festival of Architecture 2016 and Creative Scotland.

The panel agreed the design incorporated a mixture of Scotland’s past achievements with a modern and contemporary twist. It was also noted that the design demonstrated originality and flair, distinctiveness, relevance, and practicality of use.

Based in Edinburgh, Maria is originally from Huesca in North-Eastern Spain and works as a volunteer designer with Decagram – a co-operative of bands, solo musicians, film makers and artists.  Maria has also worked for CQTC Branding Talent which works to promote creativity in all its forms and focuses its energy on projects that have a positive impact on communities and residents.

Tourism Minister, Fergus Ewing said: “Congratulations to Maria for winning a competition that had so many fantastic designs. The 2016 Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design is a wonderful opportunity for the tourism and events industry to come together to welcome visitors in a celebration of Scotland’s ground-breaking scientists, philosophers, engineers, architects and many more throughout the country.

“It also a chance for us all to work together in shining a spotlight on emerging contemporary talent under the three themes and I’m therefore delighted that this competition gave a new opportunity to young designers to create a logo which will used by VisitScotland and partner organisations throughout 2016.”

Charlie Smith, Director of Marketing at VisitScotland and competition judge said:

“We had a number of really exciting entries for this competition but Maria’s logo really stood out from the rest in terms of originality, relevance and inventiveness.  This marque has given a strong identity to the 2016 Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design and we look forward to using it across our campaigns for this inspirational year.”

Maria said: “I wanted my design to reflect both the contemporary nature of what the 2016 Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design stands for, but I was also keen to take inspiration from other wider aspects of art and design which I’m interested in, and of course from Scotland itself which is an amazing mixture of busy vibrant cities and wonderful panoramic green space.

“Having lived in Scotland for over a year, I’m constantly influenced by the landscapes, the people, the changing colours and the personality of the people and it’s exciting to think my design might help capture the interest of visitors from across the world to come and visit this wonderful country during 2016. It is a huge honour to see my design used to promote Scotland throughout 2016 and it’s exciting to have a new addition for my portfolio.”

“The £3,000 prize fund is a great way for me to expand my own professional development and it has also been a fantastic experience getting the chance to work with the VisitScotland team on finalised brand guidelines.”

The logo competition launched in June 2015, invited young design talent from across Scotland to create a design that reflected the objectives of the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.  From textiles to technology, architecture to fashion and design, the year-long programme of events, festivals, business conferences and exhibitions will shine the spotlight on Scotland’s greatest assets and icons, as well as unique hidden gems.

Maria’s design will be used by VisitScotland across all marketing and PR campaigns promoting 2016, and partners will also be able to download the logo at the dedicated 2016 business toolkit on www.visitscotland.org. The design will also be carried across a programme of major and special events due to take place throughout 2016 including the Festival of Architecture 2016.

Professors from Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh, were crowned two of the country’s most inspirational nursing leaders of 2015 by Nursing Times (NT) at a ceremony in London last night.

Professor Brendan McCormack (Head of Division of Nursing) and Professor Jan Dewing (Sue Pembrey Chair in Nursing) at QMU were amongst 48 nursing leaders from across the UK to be honoured at the special ceremony at Prince Philip House, London.

Those shortlisted come from all aspects of the nursing profession including frontline patient care, management, research and academia, national organisations and charities. They include nurses and midwives at all career stages.

The NT brand, which provides continuing professional development for nurses as well as being the voice for the nursing community and the leading source of nursing news and best practice in the UK, has compiled the list in association with Allocate Software and NHS Employers.

Many of the leaders were nominated by NT readers, and the list was selected by a panel of expert judges that included the chief nursing officer for Northern Ireland, and has been endorsed by the chief nurses of all four countries in the UK.

Nominees were judged on the impact of their work on nursing policy, practice or care; their influence on and understanding of how health and social care fit together; the sustainability of their achievement and the extent to which they act as role models for others.

Nursing Times editor, Jenni Middleton, said: “Nursing Times Leaders are the most influential, intelligent and impactful nurses in the profession, and demonstrate the huge contribution nurses and midwives make to defining and implementing excellent patient care.

“I hope they will inspire others in the profession to have the confidence to achieve their full potential, and highlight to the wider public just how far nursing has come in the past two decades.

“Nurses are no longer junior partners in healthcare – they influence all levels of healthcare from clinical practice to government policy, and patients benefit from their skills and insight.”

Edinburgh Production Company 20/20 aim to raise over £725 for UNICEF in 25-day cycling challenge – Le Tour de 20/20 – to celebrate the company’s 25^th year in business.  Each member of the 20/20 team cycled 25 minutes a day to complete a total of 2,020 miles in just 25 days.

They have recorded vlogs to document their progress. This is the first where they explain what they were setting out to do.

20/20, founded in 1990 by MD Alastair Scott and CEO Andy McKay, has had a successful 25 years in business creating high-profile communications that deliver client messages to stakeholders, employees, colleagues and customers.  The 20/20 team utilise its four key skills – creative, digital, film and events – and use the latest technologies and specialist experience to achieve great results.

20/20 currently has three offices across the globe – in Edinburgh, San Francisco and most recently, Dubai.

Speaking about the 25^th anniversary Alastair Scott, 20/20 Managing Director, said: “The past twenty five years have flown by, we exceeded all expectations in the first years of the business and have continued to grow from strength to strength.

“We couldn’t do the work we do without our great team and this Le Tour de 20/20 challenge is testament to that.”

UNICEF is the world’s leading children’s organisation, in the UK and 190 countries around the world. They work to champion children’s rights, win support and raise money through public donations and government contributions.  UNICEF’s ultimate goal is to do whatever it takes until every child is safe.

Donations are still being collected at www.justgiving.com/2020productions

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was called to respond to a fire at a scrap yard in Edinburgh’s Salamander Street earlier yesterday.

Operations control received the call at 12.22pm and they sent two appliances from Crewe Toll and one from Marionville to the scene.

When crews arrived at the yard they were faced with a well-established fire in an open area involving a number of scrap vehicles.

Firefighters used two main jets to extinguish the fire and it was under control by 1.31pm. One man was treated by paramedics at the scene for smoke inhalation and a second was checked over as a precaution.

The last appliance left the scene at 1.41pm.

Gathered Together – Cruinn Comhla: a new series of workshops to help parents from ethnic and cultural minorities who are new to Scotland to understand what happens in Scottish schools and how to get more involved in their children’s learning. The first session is today and it will focus on information about primary schools; how your child is taught in primary school, how you can support your child with homework and how to communicate with teachers and get the best out of parents’ evening. 10.30am-12.30pm, Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace. To book your free place, please email gtevents@bemis.org.uk or call 0141 548 8047. Further sessions will follow on 8th, 22nd and 29th October and 5th and 12th November 2015; you can attend all of them or just the one(s) relevant to your situation. BEMIS is the national umbrella body supporting the development of the Ethnic Minorities Voluntary Sector in Scotland. For more information about the Gathered Together project, click here.

Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, Sons – Memories of Childhood. An inter-generational oral history exhibition focusing on the heritage of Chinese and South Asian older people and their British/Scottish born family members. Through photographs and interviews, this exhibition explores childhood and memories of growing up in different countries, cultures and decades. These wonderful personal histories create ‘conversations’ and foster understanding between generations. 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday, Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, 142 Canongate. Organised by MECOPP (Minority Ethnic Carers of People Project) as part of Luminate – Scotland’s creative ageing festival.

Yakety Yak: sparkling Russian/English conversation over tea and cakes. Open to all – no need to book.  Just turn up; you will be warmly welcomed by the group. 11am, Summerhall Cafe, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. No charge apart from any drinks and cakes you choose to purchase.

Mayfield-Salisbury Thursday Club: the new season begins with a visit from a small Musselburgh choir. 2pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 18 West Mayfield. The club meets weekly from October to May, with an attractive programme of music, slides, talks and demonstrations. New members warmly welcomed; annual membership costs £4 and there is a 50p charge for tea at each meeting. For more information please contact Florence Smith on 0131 663 1234.

Cal-Aid Edinburgh Volunteer Social Meeting. All volunteers, potential volunteers and members of other aid organisations are invited to a social meet & greet at Studio 24 this evening. The Cal-Aid lead committee will fully update all involved on current progress in fundraising, how donations are being spent and dispersed, the group’s trips to Calais, and its aims and objectives for moving forward and expanding. Anyone who wishes will have the chance to make suggestions as to how the project could grow; this is a chance to network and for everyone involved to have their say and meet one another in person. All are welcome and the group will take names and details from anyone wishing to volunteer their time, skills and efforts to Cal-Aid. Tea and biscuits will be served! 7.30-10pm, Studio 24, Calton Road. Please also see listings for details of Cal-Aid’s fundraiser, Sanctuary, on Saturday 3rd October at Studio 24.

Live Music Now: Svetlina Stoyonova and Kristina Yorgova. Svetlina (mezzo soprano) and Kristina (piano) are a young duo from Bulgaria, both currently students at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. The programme today will include French and Impressionist music which links with the collection of impressionist and landscape paintings in the permanent collection. 6-6.30pm, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Auld Alliance Contemporary Exhibitions (AACE) 2015: nine visual artists are taking part in this two-centred Franco-Scottish show run conjointly at the Institut français and the E.D.S. Gallery. AACE exhibits the works of established French artists alongside works from young up-and-coming Scottish artists; this year the six Scottish artists, Flo Gordon, Jacob Kerray, Lauren Bowman, Matt Sloe, Megan Rea and Ross MacRae, will show their works alongside three successful 1980s graduates from Paris, Hélène Lhote, Margat and Paella Chimicos. 9.30am-6.30pm Monday to Friday, 10am-1pm Saturdays, E.D.S. Gallery, 13a Great King Street and Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Ends 31st October 2015.

Get Online: if you are new to the internet, or can’t get to grips with your computing device, help is at hand! Bring your laptop/iPad/tablet along to this free 5-week course. 10.30am-12.30pm today and for the next four Thursdays, Newington Library, Fountainhall Road. Places are free but limited and must be booked by speaking to a member of staff in the library or calling 0131 529 5536.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind: a multi-art exhibition featuring diverse work from artists with experience of mental health issues. This is one of a series of exhibitions taking place across the city as part of SMHAFF – the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival 2015: the exhibitions aim to get everyone thinking and talking about mental health, raising awareness and challenging preconceptions. 10am-8pm Monday-Wednesday, 10am-5pm Thursday-Saturday, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. Ends 31st October 2015. Further exhibitions will open later in the month at Space Artworks Gallery, Summerhall and the Edinburgh University Chaplaincy.

Spark Greyfriars Lunchtime Concert: 45 minutes of music-making from George Heriot’s School Chamber Choir. 12 noon, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Free.

Cameo Big Scream: screenings exclusively for parents/carers and their babies under the age of one year. Today: Irrational Man (12A) – in Woody Allen’s latest film, Joaquin Phoenix plays troubled and famously hellraising philosophy professor Abe Lucas. 10.30am, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets may be purchased from the Box Office in person, by calling 0871 902 5723 or online here.

Passion In North Edinburgh: an exhibition of rag rugging, art projection, marbling and plenty more, created by members of user-led community mental health project Living Well. Living Well provides a range of group support activities designed to build confidence, unlock creativity and help people learn new ways of dealing with stress; its services are open to anyone aged 18+ living in North Edinburgh with mental health concerns. This exhibition is part of SMHAFF – the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival 2015. 10am-8pm Tuesday to Friday, 10am-1pm Saturdays, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Ends 29th October 2015.

Reid Memorial Church Thursday Club: a series of interesting talks in a friendly, informal gathering, followed by tea, coffee and chat. Today Eric Melvin looks at The Southside of Edinburgh. 2.30pm, Small Hall, Reid Memorial Church, West Savile Terrace at Blackford Avenue. All welcome! Membership subscription is £5; members then pay 50p per meeting. Non-members pay £1 per meeting.

Books in Focus: Max Ernst. The Books in Focus series looks at artists’ books held in the special collections of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Today’s session will focus on Max Ernst’s Une Semaine de Bonté. Published in 1934 by Jeanne Bucher in Paris, it was partially financed by Roland Penrose, whose close relationship with Ernst earned him a gift of two of the original collages, also now in the gallery’s collection. 11.30am-12.30pm, Reading Room, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art TWO, Belford Road. Free but booking is required as places are limited: please call 0131 624 6268 or email gmainfo@nationalgalleries.org.

Passionate About: an impressive series of painted windows exploring the theme passionate about… and inviting passers-by to consider how pursuing our passions can keep us mentally healthy. Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. Ends 31st October 2015. This exhibition is part of SMHAFF – the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival 2015.

Nomad Fundraiser Party: Nomad is an annual self-funded travel publication produced by students from the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh College of Art. Live music from Blue Jester, Jambouree and Sugar, Sugar, prize draws and party fun. 9pm (entry from 8pm), The Jazz Bar, 1a Chambers Street. £5. Please note this venue is strictly cash only.

Luminate Festival: Hip Hop-eration (12A). These New Zealander senior citizens may each be almost a century young, but for Kara (94), Maynie (95) and Terri (93), their visit to Las Vegas and the World Hip Hop Dance Championships is just the beginning of a life’s journey. Along the way we hear how these extraordinary characters contributed to New Zealand as we know it; their stories are a reminder of their history as a nation and the joy of living life to the fullest. Plus short: Directed by Tweedie. 1pm and 6.10pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased from the Filmhouse box office in person, by calling 0131 228 2688 or online here; prices vary.  Luminate is Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival and runs 1st-31st October 2015 at venues throughout the country. The full programme is available here.

Arts Cafe: a space for coffee, cake and passionate conversation. Come along to hear crafted stories about using our passions to improve our mental wellbeing. All very welcome. 1.30-3pm,  Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. Free: all very welcome. Part of SMHAFF – the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival 2015. Also at same times on 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th October 2015.

The Poetry Circus: Freak Circus. A night of spoken word to celebrate the launch of the Circus’s amazing new literary magazine, Freak Circus, a ‘stunningly-beautiful new book-format literary magazine of cutting-edge writing presented in eye-popping layouts…pitching famous names alongside new voices to bring you a selection that produces goose-bumps and shivers’. 8pm, Dalriada, 77 Promenade, Portobello. Free tickets are available from Portobello Library, 14 Rosefield Avenue. Presented in association with Portobello Book Festival.

Hullabaloo and Make Noise: The 2 Bears. The Make Noise Electronic Recycling Tour arrives in Edinburgh with special guest headliners The 2 Bears. Make Noise programmes cutting edge electronic music events in some of the country’s best clubs and makes entry 100% FREE in exchange for a piece of electrical recycling. Club-goers just need to bring something to hand over at the door: a broken mobile phone, hairdryer or laptop – anything with a plug or a battery! Since it began, Make Noise has packed out clubs and recycled tonnes of electronic waste.  Support from Hullabaloo residents Trendy Wendy & Steve Austin plus the Heavenly Jukebox DJs. 11pm-1am, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. The Bongo Club is owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue; ‘putting the sounds of the underground and imaginative aspirations before the mighty dollar and encouraging the community to get involved and use the space to do their own thing’.

• Edinburgh Restaurant Festival 
• Castlebrae Community High School have a permanent Headteacher
• Digital Sentinel
• Chronicle Online
• School Placement Fraud

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Police have released CCTV footage of a man they wish to trace in connection with a public indecency onboard a bus.

The incident happened around 11.40pm on Tuesday 16th June on the Number 49 LRT service as it was travelling south along Lochend Road.

The man pictured in these images is of interest to this investigation and anyone who can help identify him is asked to come forward.

Detective Constable Jennifer Murray said: “Two female passengers witnessed this incident and alighted the bus before contacting police.

“The male seen within the CCTV footage is someone we would like to trace as part of our ongoing inquiries and anyone who can assist us in tracing him is asked to contact police immediately.”

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

Capability Scotland is inviting fashion conscious customers to its tailor-made shopping event in Stockbridge this weekend.

Dozens of blazers will be up for grabs at ‘Blazing Style’ which begins on Friday 2 October.

Shop Manager, Patsy Parker explained where the idea came from. She said:

“I was making up my autumn window and chatting to customers about what a difficult time of year it could be for fashion. You’re not sure what the weather’s going to do and it can change so quickly. In Scotland we know it’s best to be prepared for every eventuality and a blazer is a fab way of keeping warm and staying stylish. We have been collecting blazers from our shops across the country for this special shopping event. We’ve got some amazing designers such as Ralph Lauren, Aquascutum, Jaeger and many more, all at a fraction of their original price so we recommend turning up early as once they’re gone, they’re gone!

“This is a great opportunity for shoppers to update their look for the Autumn and raise money for Capability Scotland’s work with disabled adults and children around Scotland at the same time.”

Capability Scotland’s Stockbridge shop is located at 39 – 41 Deanhaugh Street. The shop also boasts a wedding department and dedicated vintage section.

Don’t miss their blog on how to wear your blazer well during the Autumn season.

You can follow Capability Scotland on Twitter: @Capability_Scot or like them on Facebook:

Submitted by Julie Laird

Ryanair, Europe’s No 1 airline, has announced a new route from Edinburgh Airport to Copenhagen, which will begin in Summer 2016.

This will be good news for the customers they expect to use all of the Ryanair routes each year, and the airline also claims that it is good news for those 1725 people working ‘on site’ at Edinburgh Airport whose jobs they support.

In Edinburgh to meet the press yesterday, Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary was in upbeat mood as ever. He said:

“Ryanair is pleased to launch our Summer 2016 Edinburgh schedule, with a new route to Copenhagen, and more flights on 9 other routes including our Edinburgh – London route to 5 times daily.

“To celebrate the launch of our Edinburgh Summer 2016 schedule, we are releasing 100,000 seats for sale across our European network at fares starting from just £19.99, which are available for booking until midnight on Thursday 1 October.

“Since these amazing low prices will be snapped up quickly, customers should log onto www.ryanair.com and avoid missing out.”

[vimeo 140940798 w=500 h=281]

The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

“Scottish consumers and visitors can choose from Ryanair’s 33 low fare Edinburgh routes in Summer 2016 and can look forward to further improvements, as Ryanair continues its “Always Getting Better” programme, which includes new bases, a new personalised website and mobile app, new cabin interiors, and new crew uniforms.

“As we move through the winter into spring 2016 we have already confirmed that we have saved 270million Euros in fuel costs by hedging fuel prices ahead of time. We will pass that 8% decrease on to our passengers next winter.

“We have ordered another 400 aircraft to cope with the growth we have particularly here in the Scottish market where we now have three bases and we expect to carry 104million passengers this year, rising to 160million in eight years’ time.

“We welcome the plan by the Scottish Government to abolish APD by 2018, although of course we would like it to be achieved much sooner than that .”

As well as the new route to Copenhagen the airline announced increased flights to Alicante, Barcelona, Brussels, Gdansk, Krakow, London, Malaga, Malta and Palma direct from the capital.

Edinburgh Airport CEO Gordon Dewar said: “We are delighted by the news and there are some real highlights in there for us, particularly the Polish routes and that to Malta. Ryanair is now our second biggest airline customer at Edinburgh Airport, a testament to their success.

Edinburgh is a fantastic market for airlines and the airport is delivering great service, great punctuality and good service as well.”

Over 10 million passengers used Edinburgh Airport last year which was a growth of 4% on the previous year, and which involves 298 flights each day. The airport is still part of the way a £125million five year investment programme to introduce a new security hall, new retail both landside and airside, and improved check-in and immigration areas.

Following an intelligence led operation police  have recovered a firearm and a quantity of money during a search of a house and vehicle in the east of the city yesterday.

Officers charged a man and woman, both 26, following the recovery at an address on Brunstane Bank.

Both are scheduled to appear before Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Wednesday, Sept 30).

Detective Inspector Stuart Harkness said: “Police Scotland will fully investigate all information received with regards to Serious and Organised Crime and Firearms within the communities we police.

“This is a significant recovery which has removed a lethal weapon from our streets along with a significant sum of money.

“I would appeal to the public who have information around firearms or Serious and Organised crime in their communities to provide that to their local officers, by contacting police on 101 or in confidence through the registered charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The Sunday Times broke the story about new SNP MP Michelle Thomson and allegations about her property dealings a mere 10 days ago, which has now led to the party’s business spokeswoman stepping aside and withdrawing from the party whip yesterday evening.

This means that Mrs Thomson now sits in the House of Commons as an independent MP until Police Scotland have finished their enquiries into what are described as ‘alleged irregularities relating to property deals’.

The MP said on Tuesday evening: “I am aware of the police investigation and will cooperate fully if required to do so. I have always acted within the law and look forward to being cleared of any wrongdoing. I have this afternoon decided to withdraw from the party whip whilst an investigation takes place. Once the investigation is concluded I look forward to returning to play a full role in party activities.”

Resigning the whip means that her party membership is also suspended, although some commentators on Twitter said that they had no real idea whether resignation or suspension had happened first.

Mrs Thomson took to Twitter to set the record straight:

@STVNews ur headline said I had been suspended from SNP then main item said I had taken myself out – latter correct. Let’s be clear.

— Michelle Thomson MP (@MichelleThomson) September 29, 2015

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Mrs Thomson and her business partner were represented by Edinburgh solicitor, Christopher Hales. He had an office on Gorgie Road, and according to the Sunday Times investigation all of the 13 transactions which resulted in his being struck off the roll of solicitors involved Michelle Thomson or her property company. Most of these cases appear to have involved a sequence of purchases and sales for one house taking place on or near the same day; so-called ‘back to back transactions’. The solicitor involved had a duty to report to the mortgage lender where any property had been owned for less than six months, and he failed to do this in each of these transactions. Among other failings the tribunal noted that Mr Hales did not advise the mortgage lender of any relationship between Mrs A and Mr C in the set of dealings explained below.

The Discipline Tribunal report into the case states that the prices at which the properties changed hands were not the same between all parties. In this example Mr & Mrs E sold their property for £100,000 to Mrs A. Three days later Mrs A sold the same property to Mr C for £160,000. The same solicitor acted for Mrs A in relation to the first purchase, and for Mrs A and Mr C in relation to the subsequent deal. One of the cardinal rules set down by the Law Society of Scotland states that solicitors must not act for two or more clients where there is a conflict of interest, or a potential conflict of interest. It further provides that the same solicitor should no act for purchaser and seller in any property dealing except in a very strictly defined set of circumstances.

Commenting on the case that led to Christopher Hales being struck off as a solicitor, Lorna Jack, Chief Executive of the Law Society of Scotland said:

“Our financial compliance team carried out a routine inspection of the firm Grigor Hales of Gorgie Road, Edinburgh in 2011 and as a result of our findings, in order to protect the public, we prosecuted Christopher Hales before the independent Scottish Solicitors’ Discipline Tribunal (SSDT) because we believed he had not met the required professional standards of conduct. The case was heard before the tribunal in May 2014 and he was struck off as a solicitor for failing to adhere to Law Society and Council of Mortgage Lender requirements in relation to a number of mortgage transactions.

“Where a solicitor is found guilty of misconduct, the SSDT has a range of sanctions at its disposal and can censure, fine, restrict or suspend a solicitor from practice. In the most serious cases it can strike them from the roll which means they can no longer practice as a solicitor.

“The SSDT published its findings relating to Christopher Hales on its website in June 2014. The SSDT only publishes the name of the solicitor.

“We publish SSDT findings in our Journal magazine and Journalonline.co.uk. We published an article on the findings of the Christopher Hales case in July 2014.

“If the Law Society has concerns about any potential criminal matter arising from a SSDT finding, it will refer the matter to the appropriate authorities. In the case of Christopher Hales, we first raised this informally with the Crown Office in December 2014. Our Guarantee Fund sub-committee referred it formally to the Crown Office in July 2015.”

In 2014 the SSDT found 24 instances of professional misconduct and five received the ultimate censure by being struck off.

Chairman of the SSDT, Alistair Cockburn, said: “The SSDT plays a very important role in the regulation of solicitors, and ensures that misconduct cases against solicitors can be heard by an independent panel made up of both solicitors and non-solicitors.

“In the vast majority of cases people have no complaint about their solicitor, however it’s vital that solicitors who have failed to meet the standards required of them can be sanctioned.

“Issues with conveyancing transactions were prominent, with 10 solicitors failing to comply with the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) Handbook. It is important that solicitors ensure that they are up to date with requirements set by the Law Society of Scotland and the CML to ensure they meet the needs of their clients, including the lender client.”

The Edinburgh Reporter met with Michelle Thomson ahead of the General Election 2015 and conducted the interview shown below. Thomson is a former professional musician and was Managing Director of Business for Scotland which is when she first became involved in politics.

When she was appointed as SNP spokesperson for Business, Innovation and Skills in May she said: “This is a portfolio ideally suited to my specific skills and experience. As General Manager of Business for Scotland during the referendum campaign I learned a great deal about the challenges and issues that Scotland’s small businesses face in their day-to-day activities.”

The First Minister chose the backdrop of the Forth Bridge on the day after the election to have the photo of all 56 SNP MPs taken by the press. The Forth Bridge lies within Thomson’s constituency and she uses a photo of the iconic structure in her social media profile, altered today to show that she is only an MP with no party affiliation and with no portfolio. Thomson was elected to the Edinburgh West seat by a majority of 3210 in May 2015 ousting the incumbent LibDem MP Mike Crockart who was visibly upset on election night by his dismissal.

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#GE2015 Michelle Thomson SNP from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

UEFA Under 21 Championship Qualifiers
SCOTLAND v France
Saturday 10th October 2015, kick-off 3 pm
Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen

SCOTLAND v Iceland
Tuesday 13th October 2015, kick-off 5.45 pm
Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen

Ricky Sbragia has announced a 23-player squad for Scotland’s forthcoming UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying matches against France and Iceland at Pittodrie Stadium next month.

The squad includes two Hibs’ players, John McGinn and Jason Cummings (pictured) and five Hearts’ players, Jack Hamilton, Jordan McGhee, Callum Paterson, Billy King and Sam Nicholson.

Sbragia said:”I thought it’d be unfair to change things around too much. Over in Northern Ireland they were excellent so it’d be a bit hard done if anyone was left out.

“It’s a difficult group. Everyone talks about France and Iceland but Ukraine and Macedonia are difficult teams to play too. We’ve got to have a belief we can get something from it. I think we go in there wholeheartedly. How the first 4 games go should give us an idea of how the group is panning out and what we need.

“France are exceptional but we’ve got to go into the game with belief and think we have a good chance.”

Scotland squad  to play France and Iceland
Ryan Fulton (Liverpool)
Jack Hamilton (Heart of Midlothian)

Jonathan Henly (Ipswich Town)

Stuart Findlay (Celtic – on loan at Kilmarnock)
Stephen Hendrie (West Ham United)
Dominic Hyam (Reading)
Donald Love (Manchester United)
Callum McFadzean (Sheffield United)
Jordan McGhee (Heart of Midlothian)
Callum Paterson (Heart of Midlothian)

Jay Fulton (Swansea City – on loan at Oldham Athletic)
John McGinn (Hibernian)
Craig Slater (Kilmarnock)
John Souttar (Dundee United)
Charlie Telfer (Dundee United)

Ryan Christie (Celtic – on loan at Inverness Caledonian Thistle)
Jason Cummings (Hibernian)
Ryan Fraser (Bournemouth – on loan at Ipswich Town)
Ryan Gauld (Sporting Clube de Portugal)
Billy King (Heart of Midlothian)
Declan McManus (Fleetwood Town)
Sam Nicholson (Heart of Midlothian)
Lawrence Shankland (Aberdeen – on loan at St Mirren)

Both of Scotland’s matches will be held at Pittodrie Stadium and pre-sale tickets are priced at just £5 adults and £2 for kids.

Supporters can also take advantage of a youth group offer enabling 5 adults and 20 kids entry for only £30 (offer ends Friday, 2 October at 5pm).

Photo by John Preece

European Qualifiers
Scotland v Poland
Thursday 8th October 2015, kick-off 7.45pm
Hampden Park, Glasgow

Gibraltar v Scotland
Sunday 11th October, kick-off 7.45pm
Estadio Algarve, Portugal

Gordon Strachan has named his 27-player squad for the final two UEFA European Championship Qualifiers against Poland and Gibraltar next month.

The squad contains four former Hibs’ players namely Steven Whittaker, Scott Brown, Leigh Griffiths and Steven Fletcher and two former Hearts’ players, Craig Gordon, Christophe Berra. Edinburgh born Allan McGregor has also been selected after recovering from injury.
Scotland squad to play Poland and Gibraltar:

Craig Gordon (Celtic)
David Marshall (Cardiff City)
Allan McGregor (Hull City)

Christophe Berra (Ipswich Town)
Gordon Greer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Grant Hanley (Blackburn Rover)
Alan Hutton (Aston Villa)
Russell Martin (Norwich City)
Charlie Mulgrew (Celtic)
Andrew Robertson (Hull City)
Graeme Shinnie (Aberdeen)
Steven Whittaker (Norwich City)

Ikechi Anya (Watford)
Scott Brown (Celtic)
Darren Fletcher (West Brom)
James Forrest (Celtic)
Shaun Maloney (Hull City)
James Morrison (West Brom)
James McArthur (Crystal Palace)
Kevin MacDonald (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Matt Ritchie (Bournemouth AFC)
Johnny Russell (Derby County)

Steven Fletcher (Sunderland)
Leigh Griffiths (Celtic)
Chris Martin (Derby)
Steven Naismith (Everton)
Jordan Rhodes (Blackburn Rovers)

A 16-year-old male has been arrested and charged in connection with the theft of a car from the north of Edinburgh last week.

At around 12:25pm on Friday (Sept 25), a silver-coloured Honda CRV containing a two-year-old Beagle, was stolen from a property in Willowbank Row.

The pet was later reunited with its owner after being found safe and well.

The accused is due to appear from custody before Edinburgh Sheriff Court today.

Detective Constable Alison Wyllie said: “Following an extensive inquiry local officers quickly traced and then arrested a 16-year-old male in connection with this theft.

“I want to reassure the public that vehicle crime is completely unacceptable and we are committed to using all resources at our disposal in order to arrest and charge those who take part in this criminal activity.

“Anyone who wants to report an offence in their area or has information on a crime can contact police on 101, speak to any officer or provide intelligence in confidence to the registered charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Serenity Cafe Waverley Fundraising Cycle: Serenity Cafe members will take part in an all-day static cycle marathon at the station to ‘go the distance for poverty’. They will cycle in 20 minute slots all day from 7am to 7pm. Come along, support the cyclists and donate to help fund the work of this very worthwhile cause. 7am-7pm, Waverley Station, EH1 1BB. Serenity Cafe (8 Jackson’s Entry, The Tun, Holyrood Road) is Scotland’s first recovery cafe, run by people in recovery for people in recovery, and public customers who want good quality, good value food in a relaxed space. It also offers a wide range of activities for members. All events are drink and drugs free.

Join A Choir – Cadenza Open Rehearsal. Cadenza, ‘one of Scotland’s finest and most exciting amateur choirs’, is recruiting singers for all voices. Directed by Jenny Sumerling, the choir performs regularly throughout Scotland and beyond, with a wide-ranging repertoire including folk, jazz and popular songs as well as Renaissance church music, major choral works and contemporary classics. Rehearsals are in Edinburgh on Wednesday evenings – come along tonight and give it a go! This is your chance to join in singing a representative selection of the choir’s repertoire and see what they’re like – with no obligation. 7.30-9.45pm, Broughton St Mary’s Church, Bellevue Crescent. A very warm welcome guaranteed; for more information please call 0131 662 8721 or visit the Cadenza website here.

Citizen Space: Edinburgh’s Parking Action Plan. A drop-in session, with council officials available to discuss proposals contained in the Draft Parking Action Plan approved by the Transport and Environment Committee on 25th August 2015. The main actions include the extension of parking controls to cover weekends/Sundays and into the evening, the roll-out of shared use parking spaces and the introduction of visitor permits in the city centre. If you have any questions about the proposed changes then come along. 10am-1pm, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

Lunchtime Concert: The Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club, Melbourne, Australia. 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Health All Round Project 5G: Lisa Martin. Join the retro singer for an afternoon of old time favourites – a sentimental journey back to the 1940s and 50s with The Andrews Sisters, Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra. Sing along to Doris Day and Connie Francis; rock and roll with Elvis and Brenda Lee. Refreshments too! 1-4pm, Prison Officers Club, 22b MacLeod St, Gorgie (wheelchair accessible). All welcome – free tickets are available from Tynecastle High School Community Wing, McLeod Street or Catriona Windle at Health All Round (0131 337 1376/catriona@healthallround.org.uk).

Kirkliston Community Centre Youth Club: with tuck shop, pool table, ping pong, karaoke, loud music and much more! It’s a social space for everyone in S1-S4 to grow and learn, make new friends and join in with old ones. 7pm, Kirkliston Community Centre, Queensferry Road. For more information please contact the centre on 0131 333 4214.

Edinburgh Active Citizenship Group: Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) – Whit’s That Aw Aboot? A free public seminar with Gill Davies of Global Justice Now. 7-9pm, Edinburgh City Chambers, 253 High Street. All welcome, no booking required. For further information please call 0131 558 3545 or email ActiveCitizenshipGroup@gmail.com.

A Clearer Light: Lord Hailes and the Scottish Enlightenment. Mark McLean, Learning Officer for the National Trust for Scotland at Newhailes, discusses Sir David Dalrymple, Lord Hailes. Hailes was very much a man of his time – but ‘his time’ was no ordinary time; he was born to an important Scottish family during a period when Scotland was just emerging as one of the most influential nations in Europe, and he became influential not through great political power or enormous wealth, but rather through the power of ideas. Mark McLean researched and co-curated the exhibition A Clearer Light: Lord Hailes and the Scottish Enlightenment which opened at Newhailes in 2013.  10.30am, Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road South. Tickets cost £8 and must be booked in advance via the Usher Hall Box Office, Lothian Road, in person, by calling 0131 228 1155 or online here.

Edinburgh University Jazz Orchestra: an open rehearsal by this excellent 17-piece student big band. 3-5pm, The Jazz Bar, 1a Chambers Street. Free. Please note this venue is strictly cash only.

Mary’s Meals Charity Auction and Raffle: 6-8pm, Virgin Money Lounge, 28 St Andrew’s Square. For more information and tickets, please contact Rosalind Mackay on 0131 669 0003 or rcm2524@yahoo.co.uk. To find out more about Mary’s Meals, read The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrows’ Edinburgh International Book Festival appearance here.

Portobello Book Festival 2015: Chiang Yee – The Silent Traveller in Edinburgh. An illustrated talk by Jim Gilchrist about the remarkable Chinese travel writer Chiang Yee. In Yee’s beautiful book about Edinburgh he describes coming to Portobello in 1943, and how his walk along the Promenade reminds him of his time on Hainan Island, off the Chinese mainland. 8-10pm, Dalriada, 77 Promenade, Portobello. Free but tickets are required and may be collected from Portobello Library, 14 Rosefield Avenue. Some tickets may be available at the venue 15 minutes before the start of the event.

OpenStreetMap Foundation UK International Development Fair: a free public event concerning all aspects of international development. Thirty five stalls will showcase the work of members of NIDOS (Network of International Development Organisations in Scotland), DFID (The Department for International Development) and other international development groups and aid agencies. The Fair has been inspired by OpenStreetMap Foundation UK’s partners within Missing Maps, an initiative formed by the American and British Red Cross organisations, Medicins Sans Frontieres and the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap team to map the most vulnerable places in the developing world so that international and local NGOs and individuals can use the maps and data to better respond to crises affecting the areas. 10am-4pm, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Free. This event is part of State of the Map Scotland 2015, a five day conference centred around the ‘Wikipedia of Maps’. OpenStreetMap is an initiative to create and provide free geographic data, such as street maps, to anyone.

Interactive Jazz Masterclass with the Mike Janisch Group: come and see first hand how these master musicians put together their complex compositions, and learn how they approach ‘conventional’ modern jazz playing, improvising over chord changes and handling harmonic and rhythmic variety. 6.30-8pm, The Jazz Bar, 1a Chambers Street. £5. Please note this venue is strictly cash only.

Mike Janisch Paradigm Shift Sextet: fronted by ex-US, London-based, internationally recognised bassist Michael Janisch, the band has French pianist Cédric Henriot (also using synthesizer), sax player Paul Booth – also on flute and occasionally a lugubrious didgeridoo, London sax star Jason Yarde, and Alex Bonney, alternating between trumpet and laptop, which has a live feed from all of the acoustic instruments and the means to distort them, echo them, and to make purely electronic sounds too! All driven by ex-Edinburgh, now London-based, drummer Andrew Bain. ‘I can’t imagine a band which could give a composer more variety of timbre, pulse, pace and style … With expressive shifts of pace and of pulse, the mood transitions can be dramatic or organic, a series of surprises and sudden re-routings.’ (London Jazz News). 9pm (entry from 8pm), The Jazz Bar, 1a Chambers Street. £8/£6. Please note this venue is strictly cash only.

Free WIFI on buses used by millions

Ceilidh Fundraiser for Sudan

IKEA welcomes members of GB Special Olympics Team

Fundraising Pharmacists

BIG SING!

More than 2 million users have now made use of the free wifi scheme in Edinburgh, where buses and trams are offering free connection to the internet to their passengers.

The journey to work for millions of commuters across the UK has been improved thanks to free Wi-Fi having been installed on buses and trams as part of the Government’s SuperConnected cities initiative.

Read more here.

***

Ceilidh for South Sudan  on Saturday 3 October .  It’s at Lifecare/Stockbridge House, Cheyne Street, Edinburgh from 7 30 till midnight.  Tickets are £12 including dinner.  Children are free and most welcome. (although a small donation would be appreciated).  Tickets available from:  Galerie Mirages, 46a Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, The One World Shop, St John’s Church, Princes Street, Edinburgh & on the door on the night. As the images of desperate refugees fleeing persecution and war fill our hearts and minds, the amazing triumph of the young people of South Sudan, gives hope to all.   This year’s ceilidh will support The Gatluak Gatpieny Scholarship Fund, to help a young South Sudan refugee through secondary school education and then on to enter the medical profession.  Previous students supported by this annual fundraiser have enabled young refugees to become doctors and engineers.  So the evening will also celebrate the wonderful achievement of the young people of South Sudan, many of whom have been refugees for more than 14 years, but they have shown that, with the right kind of support, so much is possible, there is so much HOPE .

***

On Friday of this week IKEA Edinburgh will be welcoming home the Scottish Lothian members of the GB Special Olympics team, who have been competing in the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles.

The event, which is open to the public, will celebrate the Special Olympics when every Scottish Lothian athlete won a medal at the games. The event will start at 6:00pm in the store.

Among the team is former IKEA employee, Michelle Moran, who won Gold, Silver and Bronze in swimming. Her sister Claire Anderson, also an IKEA employee, has worked with the store to create an event that recognises and celebrates the great achievements by the group of athletes. Family and friends of the athletes along with local charities that have supported their careers will be invited to the IKEA store for a buffet dinner.

 Elaine McKenna, Team GB Special Olympics Football Head Coach said: “We are all really excited about the event and thankful to IKEA for making it happen. It will be a great way to enjoy everything that we achieved at the games with those who supported us but weren’t able to be there in person.”

Innes Ritchie, IKEA Edinburgh store manager said: “The Scottish members of the Special Olympics team performed fantastically in Los Angeles and we want to take a moment to give them the limelight they deserve.”

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A four strong team from Deans Pharmacy in Edinburgh is preparing for a Sunday of pavement pounding in Scotland’s largest mass participation event – the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run –  to raise money for BBC Children in Need.

The team, running as part of the Business Challenge in the 10k which takes place in Glasgow on Sunday October 4, is made up of Natalie Schwartz, Jay Gosai, Heather Kelly and Ailie Roberts.

BBC’s Children in Need is the official charity partner of Bank of Scotland, sponsors of the Great Scottish Run, and it is also the chosen beneficiary for Deans Pharmacy’s fundraising efforts across the country with all six Scottish branches taking part.*

Heather Kelly, pharmacy manager, said: “I think everyone would agree that BBC’s Children in Need is a cause that is close to the hearts of people from all across the UK thanks to the truly amazing work that it does to support vulnerable children and young people in Britain.

“Given the charity is the official partner for Bank of Scotland and we are long standing clients of the bank, it seemed like the perfect fundraising challenge for us to take on.

“It has been brilliant to train together for the 10k and work towards generating as much sponsorship as possible for this brilliant cause.”

Starting at George Square on Sunday October 4 in the heart of Glasgow, the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run sees world class athletes and tens of thousands of club, charity and fun runners follow the iconic 10k and half marathon routes through the city before they enter Glasgow Green and reach the tree lined finishing straight in the shadow of Nelson’s Monument.

Popular Super Saturday will return on Saturday October 3 with a Toddler Dash, Family Mile, Junior Run and for the first time, a Mascot Race including Pudsey and Blush.

Last year the event drew a record-breaking number of entries, with over 30,000 registering across the weekend.

Alasdair Gardner, Regional Managing Director, SME Banking and Mid Markets, Bank of Scotland, said: “On behalf of Bank of Scotland I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Deans Pharmacy for not only taking part but putting such a fantastic amount of effort into their fundraising. We love seeing local businesses taking part in the event as it is the perfect opportunity to build colleague engagement, increase morale and of course have some fun! We wish the runners the very best of luck this weekend.”

Andy Mitchelmore from organisers The Great Run Company said:  “We are seeing so many entries this year from people raising funds for a huge variety of worthwhile causes, and the Deans Pharmacy staff are testament to that.  It is fantastic to see so many staff members signed up from the one business and we look forward to welcoming them on the day!”

The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run 10k, Junior Run (2.5k) and Family Mile are still open for entries at www.greatscottishrun.com

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As part of their Creative Scotland Youth Music Initiative project “BIG Songs”, and with funding support from Youth Scotland’s Stand Up To Sectarianism small grants scheme, young songwriters at The BIG Project have written “Below The Surface”, a song which challenges sectarian attitudes.

The song, which was written collaboratively by pupils from St. Joseph’s Primary School, Broomhouse Primary School and Forrester High School, in a joint project led by The BIG Project and Broomhouse Young Carers, asserts:

“We don’t hold religious grudges, we don’t put people down”.

The BIG Project Youth Choir have been learning the song, and are looking forward to performing it to members of the local community at The BIG Project’s AGM on Monday 5th October 2015.

After a successful interactive Fringe “BIG Sing-a-long!” show, the choir are also keen to lead the audience in some action songs and games as part of the AGM.

Project Manager Sascha Macleod commented: “The BIG Project AGM is a great chance for our youth project to share the successes of the past year with the local and wider community – and we’re sure that a performance from The BIG Project Youth Choir will help to make for an exciting and enjoyable event!”

Raymond Black, YMI Manager at Creative Scotland, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the children and young people of the Big Project Youth Choir to perform at a local event and have fun showcasing a mix of established and original music. Every year the YMI supports over 300 projects across Scotland, bringing high quality music making opportunities into communities. Taking part in creative activities can make a real difference to the lives of young people by allowing them to shine and express themselves.”

The AGM is open to interested members of the local and wider community, as well as members of The BIG Project and their families.

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The journey to work for millions of commuters across the UK has been improved thanks to free Wi-Fi having been installed on buses and trams as part of the Government’s SuperConnected cities initiative.

More than three million unique users are making regular use of the service, using the freely available Wi-Fi to grab the latest news headlines, check the weather, browse the Internet, send emails and use social media on their daily commute.

Hundreds of buses and trams in nine cities across the UK (Leeds, Bradford, Oxford, Manchester, Salford, York, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Newport) have been equipped with free public Wi-Fi. The latest usage figures, published today, highlight the scheme’s popularity.

A huge number of commuters and visitors have warmly welcomed the scheme, with free Wi-Fi now being offered by Transport for Edinburgh on 713 buses and 27 trams across Edinburgh. In total, more than 2,600,000 unique users have now made use of the service which is now approaching its one year anniversary.

Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey said: “The rollout of free Wi-Fi on public transport has been a tremendous success in Edinburgh and I’m delighted that so many people are making use of it. Installing free Wi-Fi on public transport is one of the ways we’re boosting connectivity across our cities and making sure the UK is properly equipped to meet the increasing demands of the digital age.”

As well as providing free public Wi-Fi on public transport, the Superconnected Cities programme included free public Wi-Fi being installed in more than 1,000 buildings in 22 cities across the UK. The programme was designed to help cities develop the digital infrastructure they to remain internationally competitive and attractive places to invest, visit and do business.

Economy Convener, Frank Ross, said: “Free wifi on buses and trams has proved extremely popular amongst passengers, allowing them to make better use of their transport time and to keep connected on the go.

“This is central to our plans to improve access to information and the range of services available online, and is thanks to the Connected Capital Programme.”

Connor McGourt from Edinburgh was one of a select group of over 100 civilians from across the world who recently took part in Commando Spirit’s Survive the Yomp, which is supported by EventScotland (part of VisitScotland) and the Highland Council.

Part of the Commando Spirit Series of fundraising challenge events that have to date raised almost £1M, this 30 mile training exercise is designed to test the military’s most elite force and is normally only experienced by Commandos in order to gain their coveted green beret.

Talking about his participation in, and recognition as the award winner for Fastest Individual and Male, with a time of just under 6 hours, during the gruelling Survive The Yomp, Connor said:

“I really loved taking part in Survive The Yomp! It is a fantastic experience and a privilege to spend time with the Royal Marines and be acknowledged for my small part in the event.”

Peter George from Newhaven, Edinburgh was also in the group.

Connor and Peter who is also from Edinburgh headed to the stunning Highlands of Scotland, the setting for the annual Survive The Yomp, and the 30 mile challenge took place in and around Spean Bridge, home to the iconic Commando Memorial and Achnacarry Castle.

Supported by serving Royal Marines from 43 Commando, former Royal Marines including members of the RMA Highland Branch and civilian staff and volunteers, followed in the footsteps of thousands who trained in the remote and unforgiving terrain to become “Commandos” and prepare for their pivotal roles in World War II. It was especially important and poignant this year as 2015 marks the 75^th anniversary of the formation of the British Commandos.

Talking about his participation in, and recognition as the award winner for cheerfulness shown during the gruelling Survive The Yomp, Peter said:

“To be recognised for cheerfulness was a real surprise and I am honoured to be the custodian of this special award for the next 12 months. It will have pride of place on my mantelpiece. Not many fundraising events are quite so challenging, exhilarating, and life changing whilst raising huge sums for such a worthwhile cause, as Commando Spirit’s Survive The Yomp.”