Premium drinks store The Scottish Gantry has opened its third store in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End.

The new flagship store, located at 10b Queensferry Street, stocks a fantastic range of premium alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, showcasing the best of Scotland’s larder, whilst also venturing further afield, with an impressive range of fine wines and spirits from all over the world. 

The Scottish Gantry opened their first boutique drinks store in Stirling in 2011 and following steady growth opened their second store in Milngavie in 2020. 

The impressive West End space enables a unique customer experience and provides a highly personalised customer experience.  Key features of the new store in Edinburgh include over 750 product lines, a dedicated tasting area and a whisky vault, affectionately known as the Joe & Lynn Noble suite, that stocks an array of premium whisky products. 

The highly qualified and knowledgeable staff team encourage a “liquor to lips” philosophy, enabling customers to sample many of the products, that are steeped in both a rich history and quality, before purchasing.   

Kevin Moore, The Scottish Gantry proprietor, said: “We are so excited to open our anchor store on Queensferry Street in the heart of  Edinburgh’s West End.  It’s wonderful to be part of such a vibrant community and it is an ideal location for local people and visitors alike to sample the fantastic array of premium products we stock. 

“Our new store design is a welcoming and accessible space that ensures customer experience is at the heart of everything we do. We have a talented group of staff in this store and our other outlets, who are ready to provide you with exceptional customer service.”

www.thescottishgantry.com

The Edinburgh store is open 7  days a week 10am utill 9.00pm.

At the Broomhouse Street Party there was an authentic festival experience on offer with dancing, circus acts and rappers all adding to the fun.

There were around 1,600 people at the party organised by Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, B Healthy Together, Community One Stop Shop, St David’s Carrick Knowe Church, and The BIG Project, with funding from the National Lottery. Staff served up 2,000 meals were served during the event.

Neil Hay, CEO, Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, said: “We are extremely grateful to The Fringe and all the performers who came along, risked the weather, and put on a fantastic show for Broomhouse and the communities of Southwest Edinburgh. The Street Party always brings a bit of magic to the area, and this year was no exception. The feedback and comments have been extremely positive. 

“What this event does best is bring our communities together. For many, times are tough just now, so it was wonderful to see our values of being welcoming and supportive to all unfold with everyone sharing the experience as one.

“As a charity, we are led by the needs of those we support. With so many people together in one place, it provides a great opportunity to gather feedback on the worries, challenges, and our communities’ needs. This will inform our ongoing work, ensuring that Space continues to be people-led. 

“A huge thanks to our organising committee, volunteers, funders, and everyone else who made this all possible.” 

Acts included Fringe 360 All Stars, who displayed breaking, BMX skills, and gymnastics, all accompanied by live rapping. Think Circus Workshop had children spinning plates and learning to hula hoop, while Sze Lyson wowed everyone with his football skills. 

Japan’s Sushi Tap Show had people simultaneously laughing and being amazed at their feats; Malaki Frost had the crowds gasping, with sword swallowing and juggling daggers while balanced on a pole in the street.  

Music played a big part, too, with three different choirs. Broomhouse’s own The BIG Project Children’s Choir opened with a medley of their favourite songs. The Ukrainian Women and Children’s Choirs, returning for a second year, put in a fantastic performance. People got up and danced to the high-energy tunes, and the crowd was stunned at the quality of the singing. Another local act, Bachata Blues, had the audience dancing to their rhythmic Latin moves. 

An army of volunteers from locally based businesses, such as Aegon, BayWa r.e., Crisis Scotland, Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest, Ooni, and Sainsbury’s Bank, kept the streets clean and ensured everyone had an excellent time. Photographer Robin Mair donated his time to capture the proceedings throughout the day. 

All photos Robin Mair

One of the bands taking part in The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo visited residents at the Erskine Edinburgh home to play some uplifting music for them.

Members of the 1st Battalion Irish Guards visited during the gruelling run of performances which take place on the Castle Esplanade each night.

Erskine Chief Executive Ian Cumming said: “We are delighted to once again welcome performers from the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo. Our residents look forward to their visit every year. Not all our residents can make it along to the main show in Edinburgh and this visit ensures that no one who wishes to see the Tattoo is left out. As always, the performance was spectacular and left everyone with a smile on their face.”

The 2024 Journeys show will run until 24 August with flypasts scheduled for 15 August and 23 August. This year’s lead service, the Royal Navy will take audiences on a journey through time, celebrating the tides of change.

The show includes Tattoo favourites, from the Massed Pipes and Drums to the emotive Lone Piper alongside the culture and vibrance of the international cast.

Tickets here.

Allanwater Homes has announced that its latest phase of properties come with a fully inclusive, higher specification as standard, which will save homebuyers significant expense.

The mix of three and four bedroom terraced, semi detached, and detached homes at Oaktree in Alloa,priced from £226,995, have integrated white goods, rainfall showers, vanity units in both the main bathrooms and en suites, external power sockets, and a cold water tap.

Additionally, as design dictates, all bedrooms are complete with fitted wardrobes for maximum storage space. UV panels are fitted to the roof of every property in this latest phase at Oaktree Gardens to lower the carbon footprint.

“Buyers here are getting so much more for their money at Oaktree Gardens,” said Development Sales Manager, Lynn McNair. “We are delighted to be building out another phase in what is one of our most popular ever locations. To be able to include this fantastic specification at no extra cost will really help those looking to move – our buyers know exactly what they’re getting in their new home.”

“This development is also conveniently close to various local shops and facilities, and for those who love the outdoors, they will find that Oaktree Gardens is surrounded by enchanting woodland paths and countryside walks. A peaceful and idyllic location, it’s ideal for bringing up a family,” added Lynn.

“It’s little wonder our previous phases here have been so in demand.”

Available now at Oaktree Gardens is the Arrochar three bedroom semi detached villa, an ideal starter home for growing families (£226,995), the thee bedroom Sidlaw, at £282,995, the four bedroom detached Ochil villa, complete with garage, at £287,995, and the stunning Fintry. Priced at £301,495, the Fintry is a four bedroom detached villa complete with an open plan designer kitchen by top manufacturer, Moores. This impressive home additionally offers on attractive dining area plus a sizable family space. Upstairs are four good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom. The principal bedroom has an en-suite and built-in wardrobe, whilst bedroom two also has a built-in wardrobe.

For additional customer piece of mind, each Allanwater Home has a full two years of aftercare, plus a 10 year Premier Warranty.

Constructed with the very latest materials and techniques, and with PV Solar Panels as standard, the properties at Oaktree Gardens offer buyers significant savings on running costs.

Situated off Dunlin Drive in Alloa, Oaktree Gardens offers a very central location within minutes of the town centre.

A new showhome is coming soon.

To contact Lynn, and find out more about Phase Nine of Oaktree Gardens, Alloa, call her on 07710304482, Thursday to Monday 11am to 5.30pm. 

Further details www.allanwater.co.uk

The Scottish Government claims that its intervention, in offering more funding for a new pay offer to be put to council workers, has averted strike action.

The government has confirmed it will mean cuts in other areas, but sufficient funds have been made available for a new pay offer of an average of 4.27% for all staff. All pay grades will receive an increase of at least 3.6%.

COSLA the local government body has recommended that its workers accept the offer it is making.

COSLA Resources Spokesperson, Cllr Katie Hagmann, said: “I am heartened today to hear that Unison, Unite and GMB have all agreed to take our latest strong offer to their membership for consideration and to suspend strike action while this is considered.

“Intense but constructive discussions between COSLA, Trade Unions and Scottish Government in recent weeks have resulted in additional Scottish Government funding. This has allowed us to make an improved offer without further risk to our vital council jobs and frontline services. This is a positive and welcome outcome, and I thank everyone involved for their valuable input.

“If accepted, this latest strong offer is worth an average of 4.27% across the whole workforce and would guarantee at least a 3.6% increase for all pay points. The offer directly reflects what trade unions have asked for with a greater increase for the lowest paid workers who would receive £1292 (or 5.63%). We are hopeful that this good offer, which is better than offers made to local government workers in the rest of the UK, will be accepted.

“We strongly urge all council employees who are eligible to vote to use this opportunity to accept the offer and secure a speedy settlement and pay uplift.” 

In response at least one of the unions has recommended rejecting the offer.

UNISON Scotland local government lead David O’Connor said:“UNISON has suspended recycling and street cleansing strikes while staff are consulted on Cosla’s latest offer.

​“UNISON’s view is that it’s still not enough. Council staff have seen the value of their pay reduced by 25% over the past 14 years and any pay deal needs to do more to reverse this.”

​“The union has been clear all along that the wage deal needs to work for everyone in local government. This pause will provide some breathing space for further dialogue.”

But The Scottish Government maintains that its intervention has led to the suspension of planned industrial action by council workers, including refuse collectors, this week.

Any strike action has been suspended by all three trade unions after The Scottish Government provided £77.5 million to fund an improved pay offer.

New funding from the government enabled the local authority organisation COSLA to make an offer to unions worth an overall value of 4.27%, with a rise of 5.63% being offered for the lowest paid workers.

Unite the union has also paused any strike action due to begin on 14 August, but it will now ball the members until 5 September.

The union says that this new offer represents a minimum cash increase of £1,292 for the lowest paid council workers, which is equivalent to 5.2 per cent for those earning around £25,000. The Scottish local government living wage will also increase by 5.63 per cent. 

Graham McNab, Unite’s lead negotiator for local government said: “Unite members across all of Scotland’s councils should be applauded for standing firm. They have remained resolute in an effort to secure a fairer and better pay offer.” 

“We believe that the new pay offer is credible. For the first time in years, it will mean all council workers receiving an above inflation increase.”

“Unite will now suspend the eight days of strike action so a ballot can take place on the new offer.” 

Finance and Local Government Secretary Shona Robison said: “We value this vital workforce and I welcome the fact that members will now be able to consider this strong pay offer which was reached following a strategic intervention from the Scottish Government.

“It has paused the prospect of costly industrial action this week which would have impacted businesses and communities across Scotland.

“Our swift action to ensure this strong offer could be made has been taken against an extremely challenging financial landscape and – while fair – represents the absolute limit of affordability.

“In order to fund the offer, we will have to move money from elsewhere in the budget and reduce funding for other programmes. We are taking on significant, additional financial pressure and have been clear painful choices have had to be made to fund this pay deal.

“The offer will provide an above inflation pay increase for all and support the lowest paid. I am pleased it is now with the workforce for their close consideration and would urge members to strongly consider this significantly improved envelope.”

Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland senior organiser in public services, said: “This offer is a significant improvement on what came before but our members will decide if it is acceptable.

“It is better than that offered to council staff in England and Wales, would mean every worker receives a rise higher than the Retail Price Index and, importantly, is weighted to ensure frontline workers gain most.

“As a gesture of goodwill, we will suspend action until our members can vote on the offer.

“It should never have got to this stage, however, and Scotland’s council leaders have again shown an absolute lack of urgency or sense of realism.

“For months, we have been forced to waste time discussing a series of low-ball offers when it was already clear the Scottish Government needed to be at the table.

“The obvious reluctance of some council leaders to approach ministers has only caused needless uncertainty and threatened disruption.

“That is no way to run a railroad or conduct serious pay negotiations.”

The leaders of West Lothian Council have been accused of spending needless cash on the demolition of a popular swimming pool. 

A private developer was lined up to buy the former Bubbles pool in Livingston and turn it into a petrol station and food outlet. 

Council officers wanted to demolish the site due to vandalism – and took the decision to flatten the former pool before a deal was signed. 

Council officers acknowledged that West Coast Estates Ltd, the prospective buyers, had walked away from their £850,000 offer made in November after refusing to meet the council’s demolition costs. 

This week’s meeting of the Executive heard the demolition cost the council £180,000. 

Senior SNP councillor Pauline Stafford told a meeting of the Executive that the decisions taken in June had left the Labour-run council “out of pocket and the town without a valued asset.” 

But council officers defended their decision to demolish the site before a deal was sealed as one taken in the interest of public safety after break-ins and fires at the site and also at the closed Broxburn pool.  

The site was destined to be redeveloped as a filling station and food outlet by West Coast Estates Ltd. No plans were submitted. 

The decision on disposal had been delegated by the Executive in November last year. 

The report said: “The council has arranged and paid for works to demolish the former swimming pool building and the site has now been cleared. Despite prolonged negotiations, WCEL have… recently advised officers that they are no longer willing to meet the aforementioned demolition costs and they are now only prepared to pay the original £850,000 purchase price for the now cleared site.” 

The report submitted to this week’s meeting of the Executive recommended returning the site on the open market to secure the best price available. 

Officers confirmed   in response to questions from Labour councillors that it was likely that the demolition costs would likely be recovered in the sale of the cleared site. 

However Councillor Stafford told the meeting that there had been a lack of transparency about the way the closure of the pools, including Bubbles, had been handled. That lack of transparency continued with the decision to demolish the building without bringing the matter back to councillors. 

She said: “It’s more about the processes.  This goes back to transparency. The decision was taken to demolish without reference to the members. What’s ultimately failed here is that we are out of pocket in the public purse and community short of a valued asset that was very important for our leisure and wellbeing.” 

Scott Hughes, the council’s strategic property asset manager, told the meeting that he had taken the decision to press ahead with demolition on the night he attended the blaze at the closed pool in Broxburn after after the initial blaze in Livingston. 

Fire and police officers had also raised their concerns about the vacant buildings being targeted. 

Mr Hughes said: “I was there when the Broxburn pool went up on a Saturday night. I remember being there in person and not knowing if there was anybody trapped in that building.  

“At that point we had been negotiating with West Coast, trying to get missives concluded so we could push the button and get the demolition contract awarded.” 

Labour’s Craig Meek said: “I am disappointed to hear that the developer pulled out, but we know these things happen. I think if somebody had been critically injured on that site we would have been sitting asking officers: ‘why did you not do something under delegated powers?’ 

“Whilst we are not where we’d want to be we can still go back out to tender and hopefully get a better price.” 

By Stuart Sommerville Local Democracy Reporter 

Hibs have announced the loan signing of defensive midfielder Hyeokkyu Kwon

The 23-year-old joins the club from fellow Scottish Premiership side Celtic for duration of the 2024/25 campaign.

Standing at 6ft 3’, Kwon joined Celtic in the summer of 2023 from K-League 2 side Busan IPark. He penned a five-year deal with the Hoops before spending the second half of the campaign on loan at St Mirren, where he was virtually ever-present.

Internationally, he has been capped by South Korea up until Under-23s earning 13 caps to date.

Hibs Head Coach David Gray said: “Hyeokkyu provides us with another option in midfield being able to play as both a deeper 6 and as an 8.

“As a player, he’s a great athlete, he’s very competitive, and comfortable on the ball. He showed these capabilities during an impressive loan spell last season.

“We’re delighted to bring him to the Club and look forward to working with him.”

Sporting Director Malky Mackay added: “We’re really pleased to make Hyeokkyu our ninth signing of the summer transfer window.

“He is another top professional to add to the First Team group, comes with a good pedigree, and adds a real presence on the pitch.

“We’d like to thank Brendan Rodgers and Celtic for the smooth handling of the move, and how quickly and efficiently we were able to get this deal done.”

Every Fringe goer goes away with a badge of honour for enduring the unforgettable 55 minute experience of “Experimental Immersive meta-Theatre exploring the dilemmas of an identity confused albatross – through mime.”

(There have been worse, very much worse.)

Then again, it’s a fair bet you’ll have experienced a show that so cuddles your soul with stardust you beam with joy for days after. And just the one’s coming right up.There’s a hearty giggle fest guaranteed from Parky Players’ Shaken Not Stirred.

Their name cheekily riffs on the ensemble’s individual and collective challenges living with Parkinson’s. The show’s title, though a monstrously naff excuse to play havoc with buttock cringing James Bond memes and depreciating cliches galore, it has a more nuanced relevance to their indomitable ethos.

There’s every opportunity to immerse in the effervescent espionage antics with pantomime heckles and he’s behind yous.Brief review- the rest is up to you. Do yourselves a favour – there’s so much to savour.

No star rating because audiences have already rated them all as stars.

Parky Players Venue 39. theSpace on the Mile.August 12-17 50 mins.

Possibly some naughty words, threats of World Domination and subliminal cocktails.

A new MP who grew up in the shadow of Grangemouth and went on to work for Barack Obama’s US campaign has vowed to speak up on the crumbling concrete crisis. 

Gregor Poynton is the new MP for Livingston, the first Labour MP to hold the seat for a decade following July’s General Election. 

Raised in Falkirk, Mr Poynton overturned an almost 15,000 SNP majority held by Hannah Bardell to take the constituency once held by Robin Cook back into the Labour stable. He was elected in an 18.9% swing to Labour with 18,000 votes. 

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service this week the newly-elected MP said his priorities were improving health care facilities and fighting to fix the crumbling concrete crisis, which been acutely felt in West Lothian long before it hit national headlines. 

Before entering Parliament, Mr Poynton worked in public relations and campaign management, including working for the campaign team that helped elect Barack Obama. 

His early life in Falkirk shaped his political views. His dad worked in a unionised plastics plant in Grangemouth—an experience that deeply influences the new MP’s advocacy for workers’ rights and secure employment.  

He said: “The opportunity to get on is what everyone wants for their family – I know I want it for my boys. It is the reason I’m in politics and what drives me to make sure no one, anywhere in this country, is held back by their background. 

“Young people are struggling to find decent jobs that pay – let alone get a foot on the housing ladder. The costs of childcare are extortionate, keeping the parents – often women – who want to work out of work. 

“With the right support from our MP and UK Labour Government there are many opportunities ahead for our local industries, SMEs and workers and I will work with businesses, unions and co-operatives to help make sure that our local people and our towns benefit from them.” 

He told the LDRS that he would be speaking out against Scottish Government plans to withdraw funding from a local health centre and also to improve local bus services. 

He said: “One of my first actions was to write to Neil Gray, the SNP Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, requesting that he come to East Calder to inform the local community his plan for improving local health service given he’s withdrawn the funding for a new health centre. 

“Another frequently raised issue is the local bus services. While there has been a notable improvement in reliability with Lothian Country, many areas, such as Stoneyburn, still have only one bus per hour, and some, like Livingston Village, have no service at all. I aim to secure a meeting with the relevant parties soon to discuss how we can enhance these services. 

On the issue of homeowners who are facing having to deal with crumbling concrete roofs in their home the MP promised to support the campaign by householders in Craigshill Livingston. “I will meet with the homeowners in Craigshill affected by RAAC to offer my support after their recent debrief with the Housing Minister and West Lothian Council.” 

By Stuart Sommerville Local Democracy Reporter

Sarah Baum and Michael Connolly have joined forces to launch Scotland’s first estate agency specialising in accessible homes.

Based in Edinburgh, Accessible Housing Scotland (AHS) is set to transform the property market with its specific focus on individuals with a range of accessibility requirements, whether due to age, hidden or physical disabilities, or other mobility needs.
AHS helps clients purchase, sell, or adapt homes to meet their specific requirements, ensuring accessible housing is seamlessly integrated into the market.
Covering Edinburgh, the Lothians and the Scottish Borders, AHS will reshape the way people sell, purchase, and modify homes to meet their specific needs. The pioneering agency will also redefine how accessible properties are marketed and perceived, emphasising their features as enhancements for a better living experience.
Sarah brings 20 years of sector experience to the new business, from starting out in renovations to co-founding Ralph Hendrie Legal and more recently Monarch Legal in Scotland’s capital, where she was Property Director.
“We feel there is a gap in the market for affordable, accessible homes, and what we offer will be very helpful to people,” she said.
Michael, formerly with McEwan Fraser Legal, Ralph Hendrie Legal, and Monarch Legal, brings with him first-hand experience of family members facing physical accessibility issues and understands the challenges of finding appropriate accommodation.
“We have already spoken to lots of clients who are struggling to find the right kind of home, and it’s rewarding to be in a position to help them,” he said.
“These homes don’t have to be carbon copies of each other just because they require accessibility enhancements; they can be modern, stylish and unique, enhancing independence for all. Each person’s requirements are personal to them, and our mission is to empower individuals to find their dream homes, regardless of mobility challenges.”
Sarah added: “We are here to chat with people, provide options, and help them from the start of the process to finish. To make things as simple and stress-free for the client as possible, we will arrange things face-to-face with the architects, planners, builders, etc., so the client doesn’t have to get involved in what can be a daunting prospect.
“AHS is passionate about creating accessible living spaces for our clients and is committed to breaking down barriers and promoting inclusive housing solutions. It’s by far the most exciting venture I have taken on.”

The editor of The Scotsman, Neil McIntosh, has announced his resignation according to an email which The Edinburgh Reporter has seen.

At almost the same time as the resignation was announced the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) have written to the owner of the paper – National World – accusing it of causing the demise of the paper in a “death by a thousand cuts”.

Alan Young who is taking the position of Editor has worked with the Edinburgh Evening News since 2003 and has latterly been deputy editor of The Scotsman.

Mr McIntosh was appointed in February 2021 as the new editor following the purchase of the title by National World. During this time some members of staff worked in the WeWork building on George Street but operations have now moved to the Regus offices on Princes Street.

Whether or not the recent news with a quarter of the newsroom at risk of redundancy has any bearing is unclear, but the threat to a quarter of the editorial staff – to five posts – has led to action from the NUJ.

The NUJ has accused National World of being less than honest with its staff saying the editor “refused” to meet those who are at risk of losing their jobs. The Health correspondent, Joseph Anderson, has already announced that his post is one of those which is now redundant.

Nick McGowan-Lowe National Organiser of the NUJ wrote to Claire Jackson, HR and Communications Director at National World in a letter dated Monday. In it Mr McGowan-Lowe said: “We only see a short-term action that will have long-term negative implications for the business.”

The new editor, Alan Young said: “”I am deeply honoured to be taking over at the helm of The Scotsman, a title which I love and which has been such a huge part of my life. “Trusted, quality journalism has never been more important and I’m looking forward to working with the immensely talented team in the newsroom as we continue to grow and develop our content across all platforms.”

Alan Young will be supported by Dale Miller, who is appointed Deputy Editor, The Scotsman, and Steven Chisholm, who is appointed General Manager, The Scotsman.

Josh Matthews, from the University of Edinburgh Boat Club, has been selected for the Great Britain under-23 rowing team to contest world championships at St Catherine’s in Canada, from August 18-24.

Josh, who will compete in the men’s quadruple skulls,  is no stranger to international regattas.

He has previously competed in European under-23 championships in Germany and earlier in his career was a member of Team GB at under-19 world championships in Italy.

In another cause for celebration at the Edinburgh University club former member and graduate Oli Wilkes was a member of the Team GB bronze medal winning men’s four at the Paris Olympics.

Stellar Monarchs look to Wednesday’s clash at arch rivals Glasgow Tigers (tapes up 7.30pm) to boost moral now that the club cannot qualify for the end-of-season play-off in the Cab Direct Championship.

Finishing as far up the table as they can is the priority now and also boosting confidence with the BSN Series semi-final the last remaining objective.

Glasgow are two points better off than the Armadale men and have meetings in hand and only four points separate Edinburgh from Redcar Bears in fifth spot.

Both teams will show a changes ahead of the Scottish derby. Anders Rowe, who has signed a 28-day mini contract with Tigers, comes in for Stevie Worrall, while Tom Spencer guests for Jason Garrad.

Justin Sedgmen has still to fully shake off his knee injury and the No 5 race jacket was originally to be worn by Drew Kemp. Kemp is now unable to fulfill the booking so other options are being explored.

Elsewhere in the Monarchs’ line-up, Dayle Wood replaces Max James who is unavailable.

FLASHBACK: Tigers v Monarchs at Ashfield courtesy of Stellar Monarchs

David Wilson Homes is bringing what they describe as “lavish city living” to the leafy outskirts of the capital with the launch of its two new show homes at West Craigs Quarter.

David Wilson Homes, part of Barratt Developments Scotland alongside Barratt Homes, is now throwing open the doors to prospective buyers to visit The Brechin and The Falkland show homes.

The four bedroom properties, which have been designed by Graeme Fuller Design, have been crafted with families in mind, and those looking for quality and space within commuting distance of the city centre.

Both The Brechin and The Falkland have been designed to capture the feel of classic city penthouses, with subtle touches to add an air of sophistication to spaces throughout the homes.

Kyle Downie, Senior Interior Designer at Graeme Fuller Design, said: “We made a conscious decision to make the design of The Brechin and The Falkland show homes at West Craigs Quarter completely different from what we’ve done at other developments to showcase the houses’ versatility.

“In The Brechin, the lavish scheme was tailored to the ‘city living’ vision we see in capital penthouse suites. While the lounge boasts a large corner piece with built-in side tables and a luxuriant chandelier overhead, the dining area is the perfect place for hosting and can seat up to eight people. The kitchen island also offers another space for gathering.

“In the primary bedroom, the wallpaper is breathtaking with a 3D tree-like element in its champagne finish which is perfect for the affluent scheme. The central pendant and the wall lights in the room illuminate the wallpaper the way it was intended so you can admire the movement in the design.”

However, while The Brechin’s kitchen is the social hub of the home, The Falkland’s lounge is the go-to entertaining space.

Kyle added: “The Falkland continues the feeling of walking through a penthouse but from a completely different approach. While The Brechin’s kitchen is the social hub of the home, The Falkland focuses on the lounge with a beautiful corner sofa and adjacent armchairs.

“The large, solid wood dining table and matching dining chairs with their contemporary design absorb the widely aspired style of neutral tones, textured finishes and natural elements.

“The primary bedroom in The Falkland features a wall framed headboard between two fitted mirrors and two hanging pendants above each bedside, making the whole room immediately feel exuberant when the mirrors reflect the light that the pendants individually emit.

“It’s these small touches that create an air of luxury, helping to make the house a home.”

Idyllically located just minutes from the Corstorphine area of Edinburgh, West Craigs Quarter is surrounded by a host of local amenities and family-friendly activities, such as Edinburgh Zoo and walking routes around Cammo Estate. A selection of well-regarded schools can be found nearby, including a new primary school, nursery and health centre being built on the site by The City of Edinburgh Council.

Excellent transport links into the city centre, including the Edinburgh Gateway tram and train line and a regular Lothian bus service, are ideal for exploring the plethora of shops, restaurants and the historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city centre.

Edinburgh Airport and the City Bypass are also on the doorstep, allowing easy access across Scotland and beyond.

Anne Ross, Sales Director at Barratt Developments East Scotland, said: “We’re excited to finally be able to open the doors to our two brand-new show homes at West Craigs Quarter. Kyle and the team at Graeme Fuller Design have done a fantastic job in designing homes that appeal to both growing families and couples looking to indulge in spacious surroundings and quality touches.

“Mix this with the development’s leafy setting on the outskirts of Edinburgh and you really do have a postcode that offers the best of both worlds.”

A variety of three and four-bedroom homes are currently for sale at West Craigs Quarter, starting at £439,995. A range of incentives are also available to help make the move easier, including Part Exchange and Deposit Boost.

barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/scotland-east/

The newest recruit of an education charity took the chance to ‘horse around’  with some of its four-legged volunteers as she joined a workshop for children last week.

Lisa Williams is set to officially start her new role as volunteer development officer with Fostering Compassion next month.

And she popped in for a taste of the East Lothian charity’s work meeting miniature Shetland ponies Wilson and Flicker in their Ormiston headquarters.

Fostering Compassion was set up in 2013 by Tranent woman Lesley Winton and runs workshops at its base and in schools to help children and young people open up by listening to the story of rescue animals.

The work has proved extremely successful in helping children identified as struggling with behaviour or emotional issues.

Over the school holidays the charity ran its Horsing Around – Why The Long Face workshops with Therapy Ponies Scotland who brought Wilson and Flicker to meet youngsters along with their dogs Jamie, Lloyd and Raine.

The children learn all about the needs of horses and ponies during the sessions as well as some interesting and educational facts about them.

The charity’s appointment of Lisa is part of plans to expand its services and support.

Lesley said: “Lisa will start in September and will oversee and work with all our current volunteers and will be charged with recruiting and training more volunteers.  The more volunteers we have – the more children and animals we’ll be able to support.

“Lisa joined our ‘Horsing Around – Why the Long Face’ workshop for the children last week to get a feel for the work we do and fitted right in. We are looking forward to welcoming her permanently next month.”

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Hibs Women kicked off the 2024/25 SWPL season with a 2-1 victory over Partick Thistle at Lochburn Park on Sunday. 

Abbie Ferguson scored a neat finish after 10 minutes to get Hibs off to a flying start before Tegan Bowie later doubled the girls’ lead with a terrific powerful effort. 

Emma Lawton reduced the deficit in the second half for Thistle. 

Hibs boss Grant Scott was impressed with the way his players managed to handle the pressure – especially in the final minutes. 

After the final whistle he told Hibs TV: “I’m really proud of the group. Even though a lot of players didn’t feature in game, they supported the team well from the side. 

“We knew the type of opponent Partick Thistle are; very difficult to knock over. And we had to work really hard at the end – playing the dirty side of the game, which sometimes you don’t get credit for. 

“It was a disappointing playing surface, so it was never going to be a terrific football match and it didn’t really suit our style of play. But I’m really proud of the girls because they’ve adapted and managed the situation. 

“I think we had opportunities to threaten a little bit more but, overall, I thought we looked dangerous on the attack. I’m happier with the pragmatic side of the game, where we had to dig in and defend properly. 

“All good signs this early in the season.” 

Scott was also quick to comment on the performance levels of his summer signings, with a total of five players making their competitive debuts – as well as Kirsten Reilly returning to the club for her second spell. 

“The new girls have done well to settle in. They’ve been welcomed and been made really comfortable. When you get a performance like today, with a group that is really together and fighting for everything, it’s good signs. 

“They threw everything at it, making good changes with lots of pace. Again, we had to dig in and manage that. Overall, I’m very happy with the performance.” 

Abbie Ferguson added: “It was a great feeling. To score early on was vital. In these games, a lot time we are on top and we don’t score quick enough. I thought everybody done great to get the finish in.  

“I had a feeling I was going to score today, so I’m happy. It was hard. We were under pressure at the end. But we saw it out. 

“That’s down to absolutely everybody. I’m really happy. It has paid off. In those last moments, I felt that we were fit. Everyone was really at it. It [the training camp] was hard work but it definitely paid off.” 

Photographs Colin Poultney

As a baby, Fraser Patterson is ‘bonny’. His Mum June is already a Type 2 Diabetic, so she’s not surprised when her newborn weighs in at over eleven pounds. But she’s fine with that,

June is a single Mum. She and Fraser live in substandard council housing, and June has to get back to work fast to make ends meet. But she doesn’t mind, she loves being a mother, and she loves Fraser. Fraser loves her. And they both love food.

In Nathan Scott Dunn’s excellent new play for Saltire Sky Theatre, we follow Fraser through his early years into manhood. It’s not an easy ride.

MANikin is set in Ellon, a market town in Aberdeenshire. The play is semi-autobiographical and references real places throughout, from Aucterellon primary school, which Fraser joins with enthusiasm, to Ellon Academy (much less fun) and the shops on Aberdeen’s Union Street. This happens to be local territory for me, but it won’t matter if you’ve never set foot in the North East; although Sands Stirling recreates every location, from Fraser’s Mum’s house to his schools, the dreaded pool changing rooms, a bar, a North Sea platform and more besides, with impressive acting throughout, his story could take place in any working class community. Fraser is everyman, or at least every fat man; his pain is the pain of so many.

Solo shows make huge demands on actors, but Stirling switches roles with dexterity. Using minimal props (June cradles her infant son so tenderly that we hardly notice it’s a rolled-up coat), he’s Fraser, June (a headscarf signalling her arrival, though Stirling’s highly entertaining sashay into Aberdeenshire wifie mode is probably all we need), Mr Jingles, the far from jingly head of Aucterellon, Findlay, head bully at the Academy and Mr McGinlay, its austere, judgemental Rector. Stirling brings each one of them to vivid, sometimes hilarious, sometimes horrific life.

Fraser’s life at primary school is a happy one. He’s overweight and unfit, but it doesn’t matter. He loves all of it, especially Golden Time. He gets on with one and all,

and most of all he treasures his friendship with Jack. Jack’s got his back. They share X Box sessions, WWE and rugby. Because for the moment Fraser still loves PE. I didn’t mind it myself in primary school. But for Fraser, as for so many of us, everything goes downhill after that.

Quick costume changes take us from one part of Fraser’s life to another. For the Academy, it’s just a bigger blazer. As Stirling acts out Fraser’s school experience, our hearts start to break for that happy little boy as he comes up against the realities of life as a fat adolescent. The bullying is merciless, and of course it’s at its worst in school sports. Nathan Scott Dunn shows us not only the physical but also the psychological damage of obesity. It’s a self-perpetuating cycle; those who can’t do sport, or who are teased for not being good at it, swiftly learn to hate it and avoid it all costs, often for the rest of their lives. Lack of exercise and comfort eating (‘confectionary therapy’) to take away the fear and humiliation make us fatter. And the fatter we get, the more the bullies circle. Inwardly Fraser despairs. People often say that during a panic attack they feel as though they are dying; Stirling’s acting is so horrifyingly realistic that at times we fear for Fraser’s life.

MANikin expertly blends several intertwined themes. There’s health; June knows she’s unfit, and the last thing she wants if for Fraser to follow in her footsteps. There’s body image; the worse we feel about ourselves, the more our confidence plummets and our mental health suffers. And most importantly, perhaps, there’s poverty. June knows she should pay more attention to what Fraser eats, but she’s working all the hours that God sends; she’s exhausted. Cheesy pasta and Supernoodles are quick and cheap. And no, despite what a thousand middle class food blogs will tell you, it isn’t easy to ‘just make nutritious soups and stews’ when you come in the door 5 minutes before tea time, your electricity bill is already rocketing, and your child wants fast food because it tastes nice, and that’s what all the cool kids eat.

June worries constantly about Fraser, she’s a loving, caring mother who doesn’t know where to turn. MANikin highlights the lack of communication that happens when two people want to save each other pain; Fraser doesn’t tell his Mum about the bullying (partly because he thinks she’ll be straight down to the school, something that every victim knows just makes things worse), and she in turn keeps her own health problems from her son. She doesn’t want to worry him. And when she finally does speak with Head McGinlay, the blame for everything is placed firmly at her door. Helpful, very much not. Both Fraser and June are made to feel shame, when all they are doing, like so many people, is getting through life the best they can.

Fraser leaves school as soon as possible. Things start to improve for him, he gets a job in a bar, he’s muddling through. When he lands a job on the rigs, he even gets himself fit enough to pass the medical. ‘Hoorah!’ we think, ‘he’s going somewhere at last.’ At this point Fraser still somehow retains a touching optimism,

Until once more his obesity catches up with him, this time with devastating consequences.

Scott Dunn gets right inside Fraser’s troubled head, and shows us how long lasting the effects of bullying are. Fraser is so damaged by his terrible experiences that they dominate his later life, and he’s stunned when he realises that his nemesis Finlay doesn’t even remember him. He expects everything to go wrong because so much already has, and his low expectations inevitably lead to more disappointment. He takes his frustration out on his poor mother because he has no one else to shout at. Even Jack’s left town.

We can talk about body positivity all we like, but the sad fact still remains; in Western society we are judged by our size and shape. Schools can develop shiny anti-bullying policies to please the inspectorate, but children are cruel, the playground is a breeding ground for bullying, and the bullies will always find a way.

Efforts to change the body shaming mindset tend to focus on girls, but what about boys? In MANikin we are reminded that fat-shaming is cruel and harmful no matter who it’s aimed at, but the show goes so much further than that, exploring the issues around obesity, the factors that may cause it in the first place, and what it will cause once it takes hold.

When Fraser reaches rock bottom we want to reach out and give him a hug.  Eventually somebody unexpected does do just that, and when the play ends with a glimmer of hope for this sad, wounded man we breathe a sigh of (albeit cautious) relief.

Sands Stirling’s performance in Sunday’s show was an absolute tour de force, receiving a well-deserved standing ovation from an appreciative audience. It was all the more impressive when you know that Stirling was standing in at the last minute for the original actor, Josh Brock, who had suffered an ankle injury. Credit must also go to Sandy Bain (and to Stirling and Scott Dunn themselves) for the excellent sountrack; the hits of Meatloaf certainly brought extra depth to the show, while the set design included telling details; the XXXL size T shirts on the hanging rails, the book on diabetes carefully placed on the night table. Lighting and projections were well handled by Johnny Tulloch.

MANikin is an accomplished, perceptive and expertly staged play, addressing topics highly relevant to modern life but rarely featured in traditional theatre. Saltire Sky’s aim is to create theatre for people who don’t go to the theatre, to change stigma and to challenge perceptions of what working class theatre is and can be, sharing stories that accurately reflect modern society. In MANikin it more than succeeds.

Please note this show does contain dark themes, swearing and sexual references. It is considered suitable for anyone aged 14+.

MANikin is at Venue 506, the Wee Red Bar, at 5pm every day until 25^th August*. Tickets here. The Wee Red Bar may not be on the main drag, but it’s just eleven minutes walk from the Royal Mile (and if you don’t want to walk, several buses stop nearby.) It’s a real pleasure to leave the noise and crowds of the Old Town behind for a while and enjoy the leafy Edinburgh College of Art quad.

*Please note there is no performance on Wednesdays 14 and 21 August.

Saltire Sky Theatre has worked with, and is grateful for the support of, the British Obesity Society in the making of MANikin. Find more information about BOS here

Pavement parkers have been caught out on average 15 times a day in Edinburgh since a council crackdown began.

New figures show 2,260 fines were issued to drivers for mounting the kerb between January 29, when the ban was introduced, and the end of June.

Rule-breakers face a £100 charge, dropping to £50 if paid within two weeks.

An additional 670 tickets were handed out for double parking and 646 for vehicles blocking dropped kerbs, both of which were also outlawed Scotland-wide in new legislation passed at Holyrood last December.

Edinburgh Council welcomed the new powers after a wave of complaints about footways being blocked by cars, and the impact on pedestrians with mobility issues or pushchairs.

But figures suggest it could be struggling to keep up with the volume of pavement parking reports now being made; in the first 154 days of the crackdown the authority received 4,379 enforcement requests, and handed out 3,576 tickets.

The council says compliance has “increased throughout 2024 and is overall very high, with positive outcomes being delivered for those walking, wheeling and cycling and for communities across the city”.

The monthly number of pavement parking fines has remained relatively steady – 74 were issued in January, in the three days since the ban commenced, 488 in February, 548 in March, 385 in April, 366 in May, and 399 in June.

Surveys have identified the city’s pavement parking hotspots where the rule changes could restrict access for larger vehicles such as buses and bin lorries, an issue flagged by councillors at a meeting earlier this year.

In response double and yellow lines will be painted on the initial streets identified – Craigour Avenue, Lochend Avenue, Lochend Drive, Loganlea Drive, Pennywell Gardens and Seafield Place – to “ensure access is maintained for local bus services,” a report said.

Additional waiting restrictions may be required due to “ongoing inconsiderate parking” on other a slew of other roads including Ferry Road, Lochend Avenue, Wardie Park and Belmont Gardens, the report added.

Meanwhile parking attendants have been told to step-up enforcement on private roads, after legal advice said it was “appropriate to enforce the new prohibitions on all such areas of the city”.

The council said: “Drivers have responded well to publicity campaigns, awareness raising activities and targeted warning flyers.

“However, there are a small number of streets where parking problems have continued.

“A suite of other potential mitigation measures to support the Council’s policy on parking prohibitions is being developed to address the majority of circumstances that have arisen in the city.”

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

This play has already won awards and will be performed on the Fringe from 17 to 25 August.

The drama unfolds within the walls of La Moneda, Allende’s presidential palace in Santiago de Chile. Facing imminent defeat, Allende meets a mysterious and elegantly dressed stranger, Agent D, who challenges him to reflect on his life and beliefs in what becomes the ultimate chess game. The play is a gripping exploration of history, weaving fact with fictional elements.

Luigi Laraia’s drama first captivated audiences at the 2022 Capital Fringe Festival in Washington D.C., winning both Best Drama and Best of Festival awards.

Praised for its “enthralling script,” the play blends Allende’s final speeches with imagined scenarios, offering a nuanced portrait of the leader. “I have a deep fascination with Allende’s story, which started when I was researching him for my undergraduate dissertation,” said Laraia, who studied first at London Metropolitan University and graduated with a Masters from The London School of Economics and Political Science. “He wanted no part in an armed struggle or a revolution through insurgency. He remained true to his ideals and the Chilean Constitution until the very end.”

Laraia said the play underscores the fragility of democracy and the dangers posed by populism and falsehoods.

“We do not wish to glorify Allende, his political ideals, or his government,” Laraia said. “Instead, we aim to highlight the importance of fighting for democratic values and institutions, now and for future generations. It does not take a dictator for democracy to crumble.”

The original Washington cast returns for the Edinburgh production.

Produced by the New York-based LakeArts Foundation, “September 11, 1973: The Day Salvador Allende Died” will run from August 17 to 25, 2024 at 1300 BST, at C Aquila in Edinburgh. Tickets, priced from £6.20 to £13.00 are available here.

Hearts bosses have thanked fans for their support after confirming that all tickets for the Premier Sports Cup, second-round, tie at Falkirk on Saturday have been sold out.

The Jambos host Dundee United on Sunday, September 1 (3pm) and tickets are now on sale.

Meanwhile, Steven Naismith (pictured), Hearts’ head coach, has reflected on the disappointing defeat at Dens Park against Dundee and he said: “We did not have the energy or application we had against Rangers.”

He told Hearts TV: “The first 20 minutes was very scrappy and there were loads of 50-50 balls and we came out second best on them.

“When we were trying to raise the tempo we seemed to take an age to do everything. That plays into the home team’s hands and then they get a goal which was really poor from us.

“The second goal was really poor and then the third goal we are all over the place. The second half we got a little bit of reaction and we scored a goal.

“We then had two really big chances, if one of them goes in with 15 minutes to go and the game is against Dundee. Then we allowed Dundee to manage the game. They killed the game, they took their time.”

Perhaps you heard the screams from the Playhouse on Monday night? I’ve not heard anything so loud at a concert in a long time and it’s fair to say London-born singer/songwriter/performer Declan McKenna finished his tour in style at the Edinburgh International Festival. 

He spoke of the capital being one of his favourite cities in the UK and pointed out that Scotland was the only country to give him a No.1 album but quickly delivered the caveat that chart positions don’t matter. I had hoped to review him at a previous gig at the Corn Exchange in 2021 but a family member testing positive for Covid put paid to that. McKenna is worth the wait, he opened with Sympathy from his recent third album What Happened To The Beach? which recalls the multi-coloured and psychedelic Magical Mystery Tour era Beatles.

His second album Zeros was delayed at various points due to the pandemic and probably didn’t get the attention it deserved. Tonight he plays the memorable single The Key To Life On Earth, there’s more than a hint of The Smiths’ euphoric melancholy and in particular Johnny Marr’s jingle jangle genius.

It’s hard to believe McKenna wrote Brazil at just 16 releasing what was his debut single back in 2015. It remains one of the strongest songs in his set full of hooks, melody and killer lines. The lazy brilliance of It’s An Act is a modern ballad of sorts, fans immediately raise their phones to film or just get lost in the moment.

Another 45 from Zeros, Be an Astronaut, is McKenna’s songwriting at its best and was one of the highlights of lock-down television when he performed it at the piano on Later With Jools Holland. The track sat comfortably between Bowie’s Hunky Dory and Elton John’s Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. While he doesn’t play it tonight we do get a debut live performance, his TikTok viral cover of Abba’s Slipping Through My Fingers. From the Swedish band’s final album The Visitors, its strange beauty is a beguiling favourite among songwriters and McKenna’s version is sublime and heartbreaking.

When you contrast that with Mystery Planet and British Bombs, the theatre erupts. McKenna, for the second time, makes his way into the audience amid scenes of wild emotion. He tells us, more than once, that this is the “end of an era”. If this is the final line of a chapter for McKenna then he’s finished well.

Who knows what a creative talent like this will dream up next? 

Glasgow Allied Vehicles Tigers have announced the signing of Anders Rowe on a 28-day deal to replace the unwell Steve Worrall on the eve of their re-arranged Cab Direct Championship home clash with Steller Omada Monarchs on Wednesday (7.30pm).

Rowe, a former National League Riders’ Champion, comes after three recent guest appearances as Worrall is struggling to shake off the effects of Labyrinthitis.

Manager Cami Brown told glasgowtigers.co.uk: “We have moved to sign Anders with Steve’s knowledge and blessing. Anders has been really impressive already for us. He was excellent in our home meeting with Poole and also at Edinburgh and Plymouth.

“We’ve obviously got some huge meetings coming up now if we are to reach the play-offs. It’s a big ask but we will give it everything as a team.“

Meanwhile, Berwick Jewson Bandits wrapped up their championship campaign with double defeat to Workington, leaving the Bandits in downbeat mood.

They suffered a host of tapes disqualifications and mechanical failures across the two meetings and the wooden spoon may be heading for Shielfield Park depending on future results elsewhere.

Manager Stewart Dickson (pictured) said: “Workington seemed to want it more than us which was disappointing. Four race winners at home tells its own story.”

Ellen McNeill’s been putting this question to people on the Royal Mile, and she’s been overwhelmed by the response.

It seems that most of us have known that very particular pain of being dumped. It’s so intensely shattering that many of us remember it decades later.

What do people do in this situation? Where do they put all that misery? How do they ever move on?

In 2023 singer-songwriter Ellen’s own relationship fell apart. Her world imploded. After a decent interval of grief though, instead of staying under the duvet she decided to make a show about it.

History of a Heartbreak is Ellen’s story.

Alone with her guitar on the stage of Greenside’s intimate Clover Studio, Ellen takes us through the events that have led her to this point. Her parents come from York. The family moved to Connecticut when she was still at primary school and Ellen had to adapt fast. She can still do a mean Yorkshire accent though, as she repeats the life advice dished out by her Dad,

The British way to handle the bad stuff is, she says, to pretend it never happened. On reflection, I think she’s probably right; that stiff upper lip is still perfectly starched, at least among the older generation. When Ellen’s parents announce their intention to divorce, she literally sprints down the street to “outrun emotion”.

In High School Ellen feels judged by the popular girls; now she assumes their superior stances as she voices their patronising, bitchy comments. She soon learns theat the path of least resistance is to be a people pleaser; be easy to be around, be nice, bring people together. Her intuition tries to make itself heard, but she ignores it; in the short term at least, it’s so much simpler to be the person you imagine other people want you to be.

So when Ellen meets a man who makes that compliant person feel good, it’s hardly surprising that she wants more – who wouldn’t? They enjoy an idyllic summer, and even when their relationship has to become long distance for a time, they keep it alive, eventually agreeing to move to Los Angeles together. Romantic, right? And when that insistent little voice of intuition raises doubts,

Who hasn’t been there? How lovely it is to know somebody needs you, that you’re not alone in this scary world. But do they need you, or do they need the person you are desperately trying to be?

Ellen illustrates her narrative with her own songs, songs that draw pictures for us of how things were back then. She was just 25 when she met her partner, too young for commitment, too scared to pass it by,

In LA the couple set up the perfect home. They hold pizza nights in their garden, organise pop-up concerts that sell out every time. Once again Ellen is creating a community for other people. Once again, she feels disconnected, vulnerable. Those mean girls in her head are still putting her down.

Ellen’s musical career blossoms while inside she withers. Her partner starts to find fault with her. As the songs become sad, raw, emotional, Ellen’s face reflects her misery. She feels stuck, trapped, but has no idea what to do. An evening with some magic mushrooms brings everything to a head. Ellen curls up on the floor of the stage; she’s trying to hide from her demons. How often have we all assumed the foetal position, cradling our hearts, protecting them from the darkness we feel?

Those mushrooms don’t feel very magic at the time, but maybe they are, because as the relationship slowly and excruiciatingly crumbles Ellen notices something strange. Even though, at the very end, she cries for weeks and – as is often the case – mutual friends abandon her,

those mean girl voices start to subside. And her old friend intuition takes over,

And intuition speaks with a Yorkshire accent. Because that’s who Ellen really is.

History of a Heartbreak is a brave interrogation of one woman’s path to growth. The journey wasn’t straightforward, nor was it much fun, but she’s come out the other side, and it was worth it. It’s never easy to be honest with ourselves; almost all of us want to fit the “perfect” template, so accepting that not only will we never do so, we also don’t want or need its toxic, suffocating, pressure, is tough.

Ellen has not only come to terms with her true self, she’s told her story with courage and created an entertaining show that will make you think, and perhaps help the heartbroken (whether their hearts were broken last week, last year, or last century) to feel less alone.  

As I left Greenside on Monday, at least three audience members told me how much they had enjoyed the show; that’s quite the endorsement, so catch it while you can.

History of a Heartbreak is at Venue 16, Greenside @ Riddles Court (Clover Studio) at 2.50pm every day until 17 August. Tickets here

On Monday night I was part of an experiment in theatre.

Scottish Opera performed Stravinsky’s opera Oedipus Rex in promenade form. The audience and several of the players (especially the chorus) intermingled on the main floor and balcony of the National Museum. Whilst the music and singing were wonderful, in my opinion the trial was a failure.

The amplified narration was mostly unintelligible, the enchanting costumes were only glimpsed due to the crowd, and the majority of the action was unseen since it took place at various points away from wherever you were. Add to that, the libretto was only available on your phone.

I find reading things on my phone difficult at the best of times. Of course familiarity with the story meant less reliance on “surtitles” is necessary for me for this opera. At least the acoustics of the Grand Gallery allowed for clarity of music and song.

If another offering of this type is presented, I’ll certainly pass.

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/oedipus-rex Also on 18 and 19 August.

East Lothian saw the biggest fall in short term holiday lets registered in any UK area last year as the number of bed spaces fell by more than 1,000.

Figures released by the Office of National Statistics have revealed that while short term lets appear to be growing in popularity, the number registered in the county fell by 17 per cent.

And they revealed that while the number of properties and bed spaces had fallen, the number of hosts listed operating them remained the same.

The figures, which have been highlighted by building maintenance experts SFG20, reveal that while nationally the number of lets fell by less than 1 per cent across Scotland, where new legislation introduced last year required property owners to licence them, the drop in East Lothian was the biggest.

It said in January last year there were 6320 short term holiday let bed spaces in East Lothian, by December the number had fallen to 5310.

By comparison Midlothian had 1330 in January last year rising to 2060 by December while in the Scottish Borders the number went from 8250 to 9010 over the same period.

The number of listings identified by using data from Airbnb, Booking.Com and Expedia, in East Lothian also fell from 1160 to 960 while going up in Midlothian from 270 to 330  and Scottish Borders from 1,900 1990.

However the number of hosts listed in East Lothian between January and December remained the same – 600.

The figures come as an independent report commissioned by North Berwick Environment and Heritage Trust said the number of holiday lets listed in the town, which has the largest percentage of short term lets in the county had risen by 100 over a year.

SFG20 said that while several other Scottish areas such as Edinburgh (8 per cent), Perth and Kinross (7 per cent) and Moray West (5 per cent)also  saw a decrease in registered lets Corby in Merseyside was the only English area to see a decrease and it was still lower than East Lothian at 10 per cent.

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council said: “Whilst we do not have figures that mirror the ONS data in detail, we would have expected some decrease in short term lets, following the national introduction of licensing in 2023. 

“We will be reviewing data from various sources and datasets to compare with our annual tourism monitoring.”

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Edinburgh tennis player Jacob Fearnley, 23, has soared from 225 to 162 in the world rankings after another success in the ATP Challenger series.

Jacob, a product of the Merchiston Castle tennis academy who moved on to spend four years at College in Texas, defeated Hong Kong’s Coleman Wong 6-4,6-2 in the final of the Lincoln (Nebraska) tournament and now intends to return to the practice courts to prepare for US Open qualifying, starting next Monday.

Of a qualifying entry of 128 only 16 places will be available in the event itself and having competed in the Championship proper at Wimbledon Fearnley is keen to be involved on the grand slam stage once again.

Earlier this summer Jacob triumphed in the prestigious Nottingham Challenger previously won by compatriot, Andy Murray.

Interviewed by a local television channel after his Nebraskan success, Jacob said: “It was a great week. My goal was to reach the final and I am super grateful. The atmosphere was great.”

This dance piece is based on an ancient Sufi myth about a captured, common songbird of Africa and Asia, the bulbul, which sings an exquisite tune before perishing from despair. The routine combines Indian classical dance (known as Kathak) and Islamic poetry. Kathak is one of the nine major forms of Indian classical dance – Its origin is attributed to the traveling bards in ancient northern India known as Kathakar (“storyteller”), who communicated stories through dance, songs and music. And Sufi Kathak combines that tradition with that of Sufism.

The score of Rushil Ranjan was enveloping, the tabla particularly noticeable in an exciting, invigorating way; it combined aspects of both Western & Eastern musical conventions in a seamless blend allowing the choreography of Rani Khanam full expression. The execution of the moves by Aakash Odedra were sublime, moving from the hatching of the bird through the phases of freedom, caging, and ultimate demise. The movement had reminders of the dervish as well as the peace of the yogi.

This world premiere illustrates once again why the EIF deserves and enhances its reputation as a platform for the greatest performing arts from all parts of the globe.

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/songs-of-the-bulbul

Janet is a writer with student debts. Miss Branch directs a theatre that’s struggling for funds.

Enter Grant, e-commerce billionaire and the friendly face of capitalism. Or is he?

Grant wants the plays of Shakespeare ‘translated’ into modern English. And Janet is his translator of choice.

In Brian Dykstra’s clever play Polishing Shakespeare, directed by Margarett Perry, we are asked to consider the thorny issue of arts funding. As traditional sources of money – the government, charitable foundations, trust funds – dry up, how far should organisations compromise their principles to shore up their battered bank accounts? As pressure grows to avoid offers from not only (eg) fossil fuel behemoths but any company with links to them, what are theatres, opera houses, concert halls, festivals, galleries and arts centres to do? And even if a potential funder doesn’t have obvious connections to questionable sources, what, exactly, is their agenda? Just what return are they expecting on their investment?

To illustrate this problem, three characters engage in a battle of wits and wills. Grant is determined to have his way (but why?), Miss Branch is determined to save her theatre, and Janet wants to hang on to her artistic integrity….but there’s still the small matter of those student debts.

Written entirely in iambic pentameter, Polishing Shakespeare is hugely entertaining, with some visual jokes and a great many more hidden in the text (just like Shakespeare’s originals in fact.)  All three actors inhabit their parts; Kate Siahann-Rigg’s Janet is smart and feisty, Kate Levy’s Miss Branch conflicted and desperate, and Brian Dykstra’s fabulously villainous Grant a sexist slimeball who’s so used to getting his own way that he simply cannot believe anyone can stop him. (Sound familiar?) These actors ping pong words about with an expertise that only the truly adept can pull off; they manage to act – and act well – while remembering complicated verse and long soliloquies. And yes, I know Shakespearean actors do this all the time, but they’re not often working in a portacabin in George Street.

Grant says his argument is this: Shakespeare’s language is HARD, no-one understands it. Audiences get frustrated and leave, never to return. Isn’t everyone entitled to be entertained? Going to the theatre shouldn’t feel like work.

Janet counters this by blaming directors, especially those who put the plays into bizarre modern settings and corrupt the plots to ‘make them relevant.’ It’s the words, the poetry, she says, that count,

Grant and Miss Branch appear at first to be in cahoots. They exchange knowing looks, they patronise Janet, they tell her they’re not criticising Shakespeare, oh no – it’s the audiences who are stupid! And they somehow work their argument round to conclude that it’s only fair to Shakespeare himself to create an ‘accessible’ version of his works. After all, nobody thinks it’s wrong to translate Moliere or Chekhov, do they?

But Janet is suspicious. Why is Miss Branch so in favour of taking Grant’s money? Does she really think he’ll fund more than a couple of her highbrow productions, or the plays by new writers that she wants to support, before he turns her programme into a string of anodyne Broadway musicals?

Grant offers Janet more and more money to do as he asks,

(Sound familiar now?)

As the penny finally drops for poor Miss Branch, Janet considers whether selling out just this once will leave an indelible stain on her career. After a few choice comments about the widespread tick-box casting of a person of colour and/or a woman to ‘create balance’ aka secure funding, she eventually comes up with something that might just beat Grant at his own game – but will it work? As the play reaches its climax, Grant shows his true colours, the real motivation behind his so-called philanthropy,

Miss Branch rediscovers her bottle, Janet hoists Grant by his own petard, and all’s well that ends well. Or is it? Like a certain politician of orange hue, we can’t help but fear that there’ll be a Part Two to Grant’s story. But as another woman of colour charms a nation on the other side of the Atlantic, so we feel that Janet will welcome further debate with her nemesis. In fact she’ll enjoy it. For as Miss Branch concludes,

Polishing Shakespeare is a fast-paced, skilful piece of theatre.  Dykstra and Perry’s writing is a sharp as a knife; their wordplays are brilliant (it was a touch of genius to call Grant Grant, and what a lot of hilarious tongue twisters that little word provides.) To enjoy the very funny jokes I do think some familiarity with Shakespeare’s style is essential, though you certainly don’t need to know any particular work in depth. Towards the very end of the play, I did feel that points were perhaps made just a little too heavy handedly, but for the most part Polishing Shakespeare is an exhilarating, entertaining rollercoaster of a ride through a very topical and challenging issue.

And here’s the final twist. It’s based on a true story.

Polishing Shakespeare is a Twilight Theatre Company production. It is at Venue 20, Assembly Rooms (Front Room) at 15.30 every day until 25^th August. Please note that there is no performance on Monday 19^th August. Tickets here.

Twilight Theatre Company is based in New York. It is a non-profit, no-overhead operation and all money raised goes into the work itself. It is also working with UK artists to bring their work to the United States.

Andy Burnham & Steve Rotheram were discussing Another Way – Politics Post-Westminster.

25 years since the Devolution Act, two English city Mayors come together to offer rare insight into politics from outside the Westminster bubble.

In Head North, the Mayors of Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region, Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram, propose an ambitious ten-point plan to rewire and reimagine the UK beyond Westminster, putting equality at the fore. In conversation with Kezia Dugdale.

Some Edinburgh bus lanes are set to be enforced 12 hours a day, seven days a week from early next year in a bid to make services faster and more reliable.

It comes as the council prepares to approve a trial of ‘7-7-7′ bus lanes along a key bus route, potentially tripling the weekly hours of operation.

Most across the city currently allow all vehicles outwith peak times of 7.30am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6.30pm, and don’t operate on weekends.

If the trial is given the go ahead by the authority’s transport committee this week, bus lanes between the Gillespie Crossroads in Juniper Green and Musselburgh – a route which mirrors Lothian Buses’ 44 service – will be active from 7am to 7pm, Monday to Sunday.

It’s anticipated an 18-month pilot would commence in the first quarter of next year and cost the council £80,000 over the next two financial years.

A report to councillors said increasing bus priority measures on the roads would improve the reliability of public transport for the city’s population, which is growing six times faster than the national average.

It is anticipated the changes would “result in a decrease in private car journeys,” it added.

Once implemented the trial will be “extensively monitored,” and the start and end times of operation will be “examined to evaluate whether they remain optimal”.

While taxis, but not private hire cars (PHCs) such as Uber, are exempt from peak hour bus lane rules, PHCs will be allowed to use the 7-7-7 lanes during the experiment.

The move has angered the Edinburgh Bus Users Group (EBUG) which said the inclusion of PHCs represented a “worrying watering down” of the scheme.

A spokesperson said: “It’s exasperating when a step forward for bus users leads to two steps back.

“The whole point of bus lanes is to provide priority through congestion for the most efficient ways of moving people about. The more vehicles are allowed in bus lanes, the less they do that.

“Over two council terms, we’ve had the length and hours of bus lanes cut back. Motorcycles were allowed into bus lanes; we were told that was the end of it.

“Earlier this year the Scottish Government cut funding for bus priority schemes. Now, for the first time in years, Edinburgh had a plan to reinstate bus lane hours on one route (ONE ROUTE!) and it’s compromised by allowing PHCs into it.

“A host of transport sectors have sought to get into bus lanes. If the council concedes this now, after giving way on ‘red lines’, why would we believe it’s the end of it?”

The council report said dialogue with the private hire car trade during the development of the Meadows to George Street active travel project has “resulted in access being permitted to private hire cars through the bus gate being implemented on Market Street.

“Furthermore, the George Street and First New Town operational plan also proposes the testing of access for private hire cars.”

If approved at the transport and environment committee on Thursday, August 15 work would commence to prepare the trial, launch an awareness campaign and change signs and road markings along the route.

The report said: “The majority of waiting and loading restrictions within bus lanes along the corridor will be harmonised with the new times of bus lane operation. This will ensure that buses are not impeded when the bus lanes are in effect.

“Loading surveys will be arranged to quantify loading requirements in locations where local exemptions for loading and parking may be permitted to support business (for example at Dalry, Abbeyhill and Jock’s Lodge).

“Where amendments to parking and loading are to be implemented, the configuration of potential alternative arrangements will be informed through engagement with locally affected stakeholders.”

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter