Lichtenstein Easter Art Explosion! Drop in and join in a range of activities exploring the work of American Pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. Make an artwork out of musical notes and hear your crazy composition performed. Have fun designing a comic strip and create your own personal ‘Wall Explosion‘ – the perfect adornment for any home! 2-4pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Treasure Hunt with Sooz. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Puppet Animation Festival: The Puppet State Theatre Company Presents The Man Who Planted Trees. This multi-sensory theatrical adaptation of Jean Giono’s environmental classic tells the inspiring story of a shepherd who plants a forest, acorn by acorn, transforming a barren wasteland. As much a touching tale as it is an hilarious puppet show, this beautiful, award-winning production shows us the difference one man and his dog can make to the world. ‘Perfect for children and adults’ (The Guardian). For ages 7+. 2pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8.50/£6.50 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Puppet Animation Festival: The Man Who Planted Trees. A special screening of the classic Oscar-winning animated film about the shepherd Elzeard Bouffier, who over 35 years quietly cultivated a magnificent forest in a desolate area of France. 4.30-5pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Gallery of Modern Art Highlight Tours: monthly tours of the Gallery’s collection, focusing on key works. 2-2.45pm or 3-3.45pm, meet at Main Entrance, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

Edinburgh Comic Con 2015: an extensive selection of talent and traders, numerous special guests, lots of events and (on Sunday) a cosplay competition. 10am-5pm today and Sunday 12th April, Potterow, Bristo Square. Tickets may be purchased for one or both days: prices vary, children under 10 years free but must be accompanied by a paying adult. To book see website here, or pay on the door (cash only).

Spring Into Leith: Easter Crown Making. For children aged 5-12 years. 3pm, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Edinburgh College of Art Illustration: an exhibition by 4th year students, staff and alumni. 12 noon-5pm today, then 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, 12 noon-5pm Saturdays, Doubtfire Gallery, 3 South East Circus Place. Ends 2nd May 2015,

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Dr Bunhead’s Exploding Easter Egg Show! Witness the world’s biggest Easter Egg explosion, rainbow foam fountains, the Easter Bunny bazooka and loads more Easter science shenanigans with the world’s favourite TV stunt scientist. Dr Bunhead ‘turns the science curriculum into a burning, bubbling, exploding ball of fun’ (Sunday Times). For ages 7+. 11am-12 noon, George Square Lecture Theatre, University of Edinburgh, George Square. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked online here or by calling 0844 557 2686.

Possibilities of the Object: Amplified Tour. A special tour of this new exhibition, with portable FM loops for the hard of hearing. 2-3pm, Fruitmarket Gallery, Market Street. Free but please book by calling 0131 225 2383 or emailing info@fruitmarket.co.uk.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Eco Drama Presents The Worm: An Underground Adventure. Underneath your feet in the muddy brown soil squirms the world’s best kept secret…a wonderful, magical creature called The Worm. Join two nature lovers, Wilma and William, on a journey underground as they discover a family of friendly musical worms and their colourful miniature world. With laugh out loud songs, including one about worm poo, The Worm is a fun-filled musical tale guaranteed to make everyone giggle, wiggle and love the squirmy wonders beneath our feet. After the performance the audience is invited to see some real worms in a specially designed wormery. For ages 3-7 years: please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult. 11am-12 noon, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Tickets cost £4/£3/£2 and can be booked by calling North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 315 2151, emailing admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk or in person. The performance will be followed by a free garden workshop, to which everyone is welcome. Come and learn about composting, and enjoy some free soup!

Raoul De Keyser’s Early Works: a talk by Professor Stephen Jacobs (Ghent University). Professor Jacobs, author of Raoul De Keyser: Retour 1964-2006 will focus on De Keyser’s early works featured in the current exhibition in the context of the artist’s oeuvre, demonstrating the way in which certain themes and motifs, which were developed early on, remained important throughout his career. 2pm, Inverleith House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Arboretum Place. Free but booking is required as places are limited: tickets may be obtained from Inverleith House or via eventbrite here.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: The Incredible Power of Light – Lasers and the Search for Alien Worlds. Over the last decade astronomers have identified hundreds of planets outside our solar system – however planets that could support life are relatively small, so finding them is a massive challenge. This talk will look at how research which began in laser laboratories is making an impact on planet hunting! For ages 15+. 2-3pm, The Scottish Parliament, Holyrood. Free: to book a place please call 0131 348 5200 or email spbookings@scottish.parliament.uk.

Organ Recital: Hannah Gibson (Birmingham Conservatoire) plays Nicholas Bruhns Praeludium ‘The Great’ in E Minor, Robert Schumann Four Sketches for Pedal Piano Op 58, Olivier Messaien L’Ascension (complete), Gabriel Faure Pavane Op 50 and Louis James Alfred Lefebure-Wely March in F Major. 7.30pm, Palmerston Place Church, Palmerston Place. Free.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Faux Theatre Presents Celeste’s Circus. Come and join the circus! A first trip for little ones to experience and enjoy the magic of the big top. Thrills and spills, ooohs and aaahs, for ages 0-5 years.  2pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets.

Bruncheon! featuring The Sound of Muesli: local musical talent and DJs creating a chilled out atmosphere, alongside delicious home-made cafe food in the open space of the Drill Hall. Kippers, morning rolls and sweet treats a-plenty! 11.30am-3pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Free entry.

Holyrood Art Club Annual Exhibition: the Holyrood Art Club is one of the oldest – and certainly the largest – art clubs in Edinburgh. It was founded in 1957 and currently has over 100 members. Submissions for its exhibition are selected by an independent professional artist, with approximately 200 being hung. 11am (official opening)-5.45pm today, 10.30am-5.45pm Monday 13th, Tuesday 14th, Thursday 16th and Friday 17th April, 10.30am-4.45pm Wednesday 15th and Saturday 18th April, and 2pm-5.45pm Sunday 12th April, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Ends 18th April 2015.

CoderDojo: a programmers’ coding club for ages 10-16 years – learn all about programming in a fun and sociable environment. 2-4pm today and fortnightly, Drumbrae Library Hub, 81 Drumbrae Drive. Free: for more information, please contact the library on 0131 529 5244.

Buzz Around the Botanics: join the hunt for bees and other minibeasts. Take your ID guide and recording sheet into the Garden, then record your results on the big map. All young scientists will receive a pack to take away. For ages 5+. 11am-4pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required. With the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Open Air Laboratory.

Spring Fling 2015! If you are 50+ and looking for inspiration, a new hobby or interest, a volunteering opportunity, ways to get involved in your local neighbourhood – or something else – the Spring Fling is for you. Over 45 stalls (including Scottish Ramblers, Edinburgh Quilters, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, MECOPP, Police Scotland, Edinburgh Leisure and LGBT Health & Wellbeing) plus giveaways, tasters and music. Refreshments available in the cafe. 11am-4pm, Eric Liddell Centre, Holy Corner, Morningside Road. Admission free.

Edinburgh & Lothians Rock Garden Club Spring Flower Show. Displays of bulbs, alpine and rock garden plants, stalls from six leading nurseries, seeds, sundries and refreshments. 10.30am (show hall opens 12 noon)-4pm, Fairmilehead Parish Church, Frogston Road West. Admission £1. All very welcome!

CANCELLED: Pentland Scout Group Ceilidh with The Robert Fish Band. 8pm-12 midnight (doors open 7.30pm), St Brides Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Tickets cost £8/£6 in advance from the Centre on 0131 346 1405 or £10/£8 on the door (STA).

Portobello Open Door Film Night: The Imitation Game (12A). Based on the real life story of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch), the film portrays the nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant band of codebreakers at Bletchley Park during the darkest days of World War II. 7pm, The Wash House Community Centre, Adelphi Grove. Tickets cost £6/£4 and are available from Popeye’s Sandwich Shop, 132 Portobello High Street, or on the door (STA).

Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Tom Pow and Wendy Stewart. Writer Tom Pow and harper Wendy Stewart will talk and play with music and words. These two art forms can express the same emotion in so many different ways yet influence each other dramatically. How can we marry the two without one detracting from the other? Come, listen and reflect. 11am, Merchiston Castle School, 294 Colinton Road. Tickets cost £8 and may be booked online, by phone or in person: see the Edinburgh International Harp Festival’s website here for full details.

Simple Minds were the archetypal 80’s band: their emphatic, stadium-sized, harmonic and synth-filled hits meant that their studio energy transcended and inflated into a live phenomenon. Their friendly rivals, U2, pipped them to the post in terms of more convincing live vigour and studio experimentation. Ultimately, U2 became the biggest band in the world, and Simple Minds died off amid some repetitiveness.

Tonight, at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall, a venue Simple Minds have played several times in their lengthy career – in fact, it’s the 37th anniversary of Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill beginning their musical journey – it feels as if we’re back to their youthful energy.

With no support act and a mountain of a back catalogue, Simple Minds were predicted to play a lengthy set. Actually the band played two sets, with a 10-minute intermission splitting them. Their first set was geared towards the more casual Simple Minds fans, with the inclusion of two acoustic numbers and a solo piano performance by female backing singer, Catherine Davies. Their second set is shorter yet more alternative, with a change in backing vocalist and more modern material.

From the start, the Usher Hall was vibrant and spirited. Jim Kerr’s Bono-esque stagecraft dominated the show, utilising the entire stage set-up while making sure his dedicated fans are right at home. It could not get any better for the paying customers, their first set ending with ‘Waterfront’ and ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’ back-to-back, and fan favourites such as ‘Glittering Prize’ and ‘New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)’ entertaining the top-end of the first set. As it concluded, Jim Kerr mentioned that “most bands would be off now on their private jets and eating sushi, but we’ve got plenty more music to play.”

The second set didn’t gather just the same momentum as the first, with some lack of interest from a crowd that were previously eager, now appearing disenchanted. But all of that changed with the final two songs, ‘Big Music’ and ‘Sanctify Yourself’. The show went on for more than two hours and the 55-year-old band return to the stage for the second time to play a mixed encore, including a baffling rendition of ‘Riders on the Storm’ and a jubilant finale of ‘Alive and Kicking’.

“Glasgow gave us our break but Edinburgh made us,” Kerr stated mid-show, clearly in awe of the joyful Usher Hall crowd that was staring right at him. Even when the show ended 150 minutes later with the house lights rising, half the band want to stay on stage. Kerr, Burchill, and the long-time mighty drummer Mel Gaynor graced the stage, applauding the resounding audience, while dancing to Kingsmen’s ‘Louie Louie’ that blared over the PA.

But that last minute exemplifies one thing for Simple Minds: that they never know when this musical adventure is going to end. It could end tomorrow, or one of Scotland’s longest-running outfits could record and play live for another 10 years. The prolonged salutations showed that Simple Minds want to savour such moments.

As Jim Kerr said at the end of ‘Alive and Kicking’, “We’ll never forget this.”

Cullen Property management is expecting a rise in ‘silver landlords’ looking for property in Edinburgh at this year’s Property Investor & Homebuyer Show 2015, being held in London later this month.

From Monday 6th April (Pension Freedom Day) people can spend their pensions as they wish, and are no longer forced to convert their pension pots into annuities – resulting in an increase in those reaching retirement age opting to invest in property instead*. As a result, Cullen Property management is predicting a surge of interest in Edinburgh property at this year’s Property Investor & Homebuyer Show, and is receiving more and more enquiries from older property investors with previous links to Edinburgh.

This follows last week’s news that Nationwide is now lending to investors up to 70 years of age, with a maximum loan term of 35 years, meaning the investor can theoretically be a BTL landlord up to the age of 105.

Cullen Property’s operations director Steve Coyle says: “It is interesting to see the rise in silver landlords and we are receiving more enquiries from older people, many of whom used to study in Edinburgh and who consider the city fondly as a result, particularly if their children now study here, too. More mature property investors are interested in securing not just a buy-to-let flat but a long-term home for their children and even grandchildren.

“It will be the fourth year in attendance at the Property Investor & Homebuyer Show for us and every year we discover a new focus. The first year (2012) we were the only Scottish exhibitors but gradually, over the last few years, we’ve seen a real boost in profile for Edinburgh, with more interest shown in purchasing high quality property in the city – particularly in historic and traditional stone buildings. We will be on hand to inform the show delegates about the many excellent and affordable investment opportunities available here.”

The Property Investor & Homebuyer Show is the UK property sector’s main event of the spring season, and the largest landlord and investor networking hub in the UK. The show organisers are expecting over 5,000 delegates over the two day event, which takes place at ExCeL London on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th April.

Cullen Property will be at Stand 242 on both days of the show, opening at 10am and closing at 6pm on Friday/5pm on Saturday.

Visitors can book individual appointments with Steve Coyle or Cullen Property managing director Malcolm Warrack: steve@cullenproperty.com / malcolm@cullenproperty.com / Tel: 0131 221 1818.

Submitted by Samantha McKay-Challen

Edinburgh is brilliant for our favorite four legged friends with loads of great parks and hills both in the city centre and nearby for a walk to blow the cobwebs away.

Here are some of our favorite places for a daunder and some fabulous views of Auld Reekie too!

1. Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags

One of the seven hills in the city and the most impressive with the looming Salisbury Crags cutting through the skyline, Arthur’s Seat is definitely one of my favorite walks. The views from the top are stunning looking west to Edinburgh Castle and the Forth Road Bridge and East to East Lothian and Berwick Law. There are many routes up to the top – the easiest is probably to park at Dunsapie Loch or Park round at the Palace of Holyrood and do the full walk past St Anthony’s Chapel and up to the summit. Your dog can run wild through the ponds between the crags and the summit and tire them out properly with a hike to the top!

If it is sunny a nice pint in the beer garden at the Salisbury Crags pub is highly recommended! (no dogs inside unfortunately)

2. Blackford Hill and The Hermitage of Braid

The Hermitage walk is absolutely beautiful with a gentle stream bubbling along beside the path and it and is accessible for wheelchairs, prams and bikes too leading to the Hermitage visitors centre. There are many paths around the stream that lead up to Blackford Hill (Observatory Hill to some) which has a fabulous view of the whole city as well as to Arthur’s Seat. Dogs love paddling in the stream and chasing rabbits up the hillside. Wild garlic is in season in spring and grows in the glen!

It is an important part of Edinburgh’s natural heritage, and is classified a Local Nature Reserve. Blackford Pond and the surrounding wetland are important for water birds such as swan, little grebe, heron, pochard, mallard and tufted duck. Moorhen and coot nest at the edge of the pond amongst the reeds. Friends of the Hermitage often organise tours to learn more about the flora and fauna – more information here.

After your walk head along Morningside road for lots of lovely pubs and coffee shops – almost all of them are dog friendly.

3. Cramond Island

Edinburgh is right on the coast making for some fabulous walks all along its coastline. Portobello beach is great for dog walkers in the winter months for a brisk stroll and then a warming hot chocolate in the Espy. It’s a great day out to wander along to Cramond Island. It is a tidal island in the Firth of Forth that can be reached at low tide by a causeway from the village of Cramond. There is a noticeboard at the landward end of the causeway setting out the times when it may safely be crossed.

A text service introduced last year may also be helpful.

Cramond Island is a fascinating place, and also a very popular one. The island offers a touch of wilderness almost on Edinburgh’s doorstep: though the liberal application of graffiti to most standing structures and remains of camp fires suggest it is not as respected by all its visitors as might be hoped but this does not dampen the spirits of the many visitors and their pups!

Take note, and make sure you allow yourself the time you need to explore an island that turns out to be larger than it looks, and the time to get back along the causeway before the waters close over it.

4. Corstorphine Hill

The hill is only 531 feet (161 metres) high. However, from all angles it presents a long low wood-covered ridge, rising above the western suburbs of Edinburgh: Corstorphine, Blackhall Murrayfield and Balgreen. Corstorphine Hill is readily identified by its distinctive Tower with many walking routes criss-crossing over it you are sure to find something new every walk!

We love wandering up behind the Zoo for a glimpse of some more exotic animals. Look out for zebras, ostriches and antelopes in the African Plains enclosure of the Zoo. Closely spaced are fine view points to the north, east and south, the latter known as Rest-and-be-thankful, where travellers paused to take in their first glimpse of Edinburgh and before the last leg of their journey.

5. The Union Canal and Water of Leith

The towpath on the Union Canal forms a great route for regular walking in the city, to get to work, to walk the dog or get some exercise. It’s 32 miles along the Union Canal from Edinburgh Quay and it con with the Water of Leith. A perfect way to escape the city streets for a while and enjoy a new perspective on the city.

The Water of Leith walkway passes through many areas of interest including: Colinton Village and Dell, the Union Canal, Saughton Winter Gardens, Murrayfield Stadium, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village, Stockbridge, the Royal Botanic Garden and Leith. Ideal for family and doggy walks, the walkway is a delightful afternoon’s stroll, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The route is suitable for cycling and is accessible in part by wheelchairs and even on horseback.

Inverlieth Park is a great place for a detour where a huge expanse of grass is waiting for your dog and his frisbee, spectacular views of the castle from the North side and a great place for watching fireworks (without your dog!).

Just outside the city:

6. North Berwick

Just a short 30 minute train journey (or drive) away from Edinburgh and is a fabulous little seaside town with some of the best fish & chips or lobster & chips in Scotland, and some cosy seaside dog-friendly pubs and a great ice cream shop.

North Berwick has a long stretch of beach as far as the eye can see so you can stretch out the walk as long as you’d like. We usually walk up the beach past the golf course for about 2 hours before turning around and heading back to the centre for lobster and chips at the Lobster Shack (and penny sweets too!). The beach is extremely clean and tidy and again is a very popular walk with other dog owners, especially if they are fond of a good splash in the sea.

Nearby Tyninghame, Yellowcraigs and Gullane Bents are also brilliant dog walking beaches.

7. Pentland Hills Regional Park

Head out the Southside of Edinburgh and you will find the Pentlands – a fabulous place for a walk with the dog! With 100km of waymarked routes that are suitable for all levels of fitness, there is something for everyone.

When planning your trip to the Pentlands be aware that many places become busy very quickly, in particular, Flotterstone, Harlaw and Threipmuir car parks so get there early! I love the walk up from the Flotterstone pub along the ridge and back by the reservoirs and so does our dog! Don’t forget to look up on your climb and take in the lovely views.

Watch out for sheep though it is lambing season and the farmers can get annoyed if your dog is prone to sheep worrying.

Tell us your favorite places so we can add to our list!

I’ve spend much of this week wandering lonely as a cloud over the fields and hedgerows of England.  On family visits in Norfolk and Hertfordshire I saw ten thousand daffodils, weeping willows just come into leaf and gorse bushes flowering a dazzling yellow.  And as we cycled along, there would be the occasional election poster peeking out from newly trimmed gardens to remind us that there was an election on.

When I arrived back in Scotland I found that spring had arrived here too. The daffodils were in full bloom. It was even slightly warm, in the sunshine.  But the election posters have not yet flowered and the news is all about that old autumn constitutional chestnut of “full fiscal autonomy”.

It seems to have come as a surprise to the press and the unionist parties that the SNP want Scotland to raise all its own taxes and spend all its own money.  Of course their MPs would vote for it, if offered the chance.  (And so should the Liberal Democrats for that matter, along with new converts to the federal faith like Gordon Brown.)

But Westminster is not going to offer anyone the chance to vote for full fiscal autonomy, at least for the foreseeable future.  All parties there, except the SNP, insist the independence referendum last year settled the issue and everyone is getting on with implementing the increased devolution the majority of Scots wanted in the first place.

It’s also become clear during the leaders’ debates on television that the SNP and the Greens are offering voters a very different vision of the future from the unionist parties….NO to further “austerity” and NO to the renewal of Trident nuclear weapons.  Both are probably minority views but they are held by a sufficient number of committed voters to make the election too close to call.  At least though, the campaign is coming down to substantive issues and is not just a series of small one-upmanship bids on health spending or childcare  and dubious claims about the economy.

Happily, some people in Scotland are thinking slightly longer-term.  Researchers at Edinburgh University have been studying the Great Extinction, some 250 million years ago. They’ve discovered that a series of volcanic eruptions caused so much carbon dioxide to enter the atmosphere that two-thirds of land animals died out and 90 per cent of marine life perished in the acidic seas.   It’s only slightly reassuring that even if we continue to burn all the known oil reserves in the world it would not produce as much carbon dioxide as the ancient volcanoes but it is a warning that CO2 is bad for our health.

Having completed my own cycle journeys this Easter, I take my helmet off to Scots adventurer Mark Beaumont who is setting off on a 10,000km cycle ride through Africa. His aim is to cycle from Cairo to Cape Town in less than 50 days.  This is a man who has already cycled round the world and from the north to the south of the Americas, so for him this latest ride must seem like a Saturday afternoon jaunt.

Another handsome Scot with a Saturday afternoon engagement is Andy Murray.  He gets married tomorrow in his home town of Dunblane to the lady who has cheered him through many a triumph and disaster Kim Sears.   The town has apparently gone delirious with pubs and high street shops all selling Andy/Kim themed products and the golden post-box in honour of Andy’s Olympic medal has been given a new lick of paint.  And so the town with pleasure fills and dances with the daffodils.

So I have to confess I love Latin American food of all types, from the quick and easy street food through to the really exciting cooking coming out of many new places these days. For me Mexican food is all about having lots of fun while enjoying tasty food you can share with your friends and family. At Las Iguanas you can certainly do that – we visited the restaurant on a Wednesday night last week and the place was packed with people enjoying a margarita or two and having a feast!

The restaurant is a very slick chain but seems to have retained a degree of independence and fun that is often missing when they grow so big. Our server was super friendly and really helpful with recommendations of new dishes to try. The décor is quirky with some cool pictures and trinkets from across South America and regional specials on the menu.

The menu is also huge and what’s more they cater for all kinds of allergies and eating habits including gluten free, vegetarian and vegan.

Las Iguanas is committed to serving freshest food, and the highest quality ingredients and try to be GM free – yay. They pride themselves on their native South American suppliers like their coffee supplier, Daterra (who are Rainforest Alliance certified), and cachaça partners, Magnifica, who grow our very own organic sugar cane – mixed only with local spring water during distillation.

So what about the food? Well we certainly enjoyed it! I started with a Brahma which is one of my favourite beers (resisted a margarita as it was a school day!). Sunday to Wednesday all classic cocktails are £3.90 and they have a fab starter deal where you can choose 3 for £14.40 or five for £24. We decided to share nachos of course, calamares and a duck taquito. All three were very good, I liked the nachos a lot and our lovely server brought us extra guacamole too. To be honest as a couple you could easily order this deal for lunch as we were quite full!

Sizzling fajitas were next on my menu and they were a sizzling skillet of food joy! The steak was very tasty and the dips good. I added refried beans to my order too so had lots to pack into the tortillas. My partner in crime ordered one of the new specials XimXim which is a peanut based curry with chicken and crayfish. He said it was very nice but could have done with a bit more spice for his taste! We were far too full for desserts I am afraid so cant comment on that but the table next to us had a plate of churros (donuts) with dipping sauces that looked very tempting.

I think it’s a great place to have a catch up with friends and very well priced, especially with all the fab midweek deals on drinks and food.

Las Iguanas

www.iguanas.co.uk

141-143 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JY
0131 226 2107

The Sick Kids Friends Foundation is calling on sports fans to pit their knowledge against rival teams at an Ultimate Sports Quiz to help the charity raise funds for the vital Drop in Centre at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children (RHSC) in Edinburgh.

The charity hopes to raise more than £18,000 for the centre which benefits thousands of families each year including the Harnwells who are photographed here.

These two young children visit the hospital regularly.

7-year-old Olivia receives treatment and her 9-year-old brother Ben visits the hospital for chemotherapy to treat leukaemia.

The Foundation is looking for supporters to enter teams of five or ten to battle it out at The Ghillie Dhu on Thursday, 23 April, after last year’s event raised £10,700 for the hospital’s Wayfinding signpost system.

This year the charity will aim to raise £18,500 for the SKFF Drop in Centre, which provides a non-clinical atmosphere where patients, siblings, families and friends can spend time together away from the hospital.

Last year the centre welcomed more than 650 patients and 1,700 parents.

Michelle Harnwell visits the Drop in Centre regularly when accompanying her two children to appointments at the RHSC.

Michelle said: “Olivia has cerebral palsy and as a result visits the Sick Kids regularly for crucial orthopaedic appointments. My son Ben also has acute lymphoblastic leukaemia so we visit the hospital every month so he can receive life-saving chemotherapy treatment and blood and platelet transfusions.

“During these worrying times the Drop in Centre is a haven – it’s somewhere you can go for a relaxing, reliable chat located within the hospital grounds. The team are second to none and their professional, empathetic and approachable nature always puts me at ease.

“As well as having the opportunity to meet with other parents who are going through a similar experience, the centre provides complimentary therapy which helps keep you sane after spending hours in the hospital ward worrying about your little one.”

The SKFF’s Drop in Centre was the first of its kind in the UK when it opened its doors in 2006 and the funds raised from the Ultimate Sports Quiz will help to meet the £135,000 the charity invests in the centre each year.

SKFF supporters and sports buffs attending this year’s quiz will be treated to a drink and tasty supper before having the opportunity to get their hands on priceless sporting items at the event auction.

The quiz itself will be hosted by Scottish sport pundit Scott Wilson and quizmaster Johnny Craig.

Rachel McKenzie, head of voluntary fundraising at the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, said: “We’re very excited to welcome quiz teams from across Edinburgh to join long-time SKFF supporter Scott Wilson at the eighth annual Ultimate Sports Quiz.

“I know Scott will have no problem putting attendees’ sporting knowledge under the spotlight on what is sure to be a great night of fun and fundraising. There’s still time to secure your place and help us continue to fund a fantastic facility which benefits thousands of families each year, including the Harnwells.”

The SKFF’s Ultimate Sports Quiz will take place from 7pm on Thursday, 23 April at The Ghillie Dhu, 2 Rutland Street, Edinburgh.

Tickets are priced at £45 per person, £225 for a team of five or £450 for a team of ten and can be purchased from Linda Cameron on 0131 668 4949 or linda.cameron@luht.scot.nhs.uk.

Submitted by Corrie Campbell

An Edinburgh filmmaker has teamed up with BAFTA nominated producers to create a bold new drama set in the capital that features a homeless man as the main character.

Stray Dog is a bleak drama set against the gritty Edinburgh milieu featuring a vagrant who is not what he seems.

The solo-penned script by Fender puts issues like homelessness, addiction, gambling, violence and bullying, and isolation under the spotlight through the struggles of its main characters.

Douglas Fender, 25, has secured the talents of Alan McLaughlin and Craig McKenna the team behind Newcomers BAFTA nominated short film When the Tide Comes In, and acclaimed Scottish actors Gary Lind and Michael Daviot who both starred in the hit American TV Show – Outlander.

The team headed up by Fender has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise a budget of £10,000 for the film and are calling on the public to back it and help bring the story to the screen. If the target of £10,000 is reached Douglas will donate 5% to a homelessness charity or shelter.

Stray Dog follows a down on his luck, widowed comedian struggling with a gambling addiction who is saved from a beating by a vagrant whose bite seems more terrifying than his bark.

When a local hard-man debt collector attacks the comedian the mysterious homeless man comes to his aid and sparks an unlikely friendship, setting off a catastrophic chain of events that will test their friendship and irrevocably change their lives.

The tragic story is the first feature film from up and coming independent filmmaker Douglas Fender, from Saughton, and will be shot in Edinburgh over the summer of 2015.

Douglas Fender said, “Violence is never far from the surface in Stray Dog but it is a story that is full of heart. Tragedy is brewing. It’s also a story that reminds us of the destructiveness of rage and grief but also of the power of simple acts of compassion, and how friendship can change people as they face their own demons.”

Supporters of the crowdfunding campaign can bag a walk on part in one of the movie’s violent scenes. There’s other perks up for grabs, depending on the amount of the donation.

Fender’s previous short films include Open Lines, which featured a cameo from independent cult horror icon Lloyd Kaufman. The 30-minute short was created on zero-budget and highly rated on IMDB, the Internet movie database.

Douglas says he hopes to continue putting Edinburgh on the map with high quality, independent filmmaking, hot on the heels of the success of Box Office hits like ’Filth’ and ’Sunshine on Leith’.

“Stray Dog does have a very bleak tone like so many films set in Edinburgh, presenting the city as a wonderfully gritty backdrop to the story but it’s not the focus. It doesn’t shout ‘Scottish’. ‘Stray Dog’ is woven from that unmistakable fabric of Edinburgh but I hope it’s a universal story that focuses on the characters own personal stories and growth.”

You can support the film here on indiegogo

Submitted by Douglas J. Fender

Police  yesterday recovered a significant quantity of drugs from a property in the south west of the city.

In an intelligence led operation, officers executed a warrant on the premises on Lanark Road and found around 180 cannabis plants worth a maximum street value of £90,000 in the living area.

This recovery was part of Police Scotland’s commitment to tackling serious and organised crime in the Edinburgh area and involved both local and specialist resources, including officers from the Organised Crime & Counter Terrorism Unit.

Police are currently pursing positive lines of enquiry to establish those responsible for the cultivation.

Detective Inspector Arron Clinkscales said: “There have been a number of successful operations carried out in the Capital in recent days resulting in a significant quantity of illegal drugs being removed from our communities.

“This latest operation is no exception. Police Scotland ‘s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit is committed to targeting those who deal in drugs, which has a huge impact to families across the country and is completely unacceptable.

“If you have any information about this incident, or want to report drug offences in your area, please contact Police Scotland 101 or, alternatively in confidence via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Police  are appealing for further witnesses following the attempted murder of two men in the Wardieburn area on Wednesday.

The men, aged 43 and 45, travelled from the Aberdeen area and were attacked within a common stairwell on Wardieburn Street West around 6.10pm.

The victims made their way to Wardieburn Place West, and a passer-by alerted police.

The two suspects departed the scene, possibly via the large grass area at the rear of the block.

The first suspect is described as a white man, aged 17-19 years. He has a central Scotland accent and light-coloured short hair, which is shaved at the sides. He was wearing a light-coloured sky blue hooded sweatshirt and grey jogging bottoms.

The second suspect is a white man in his mid-twenties. He has a stocky build and was wearing a striped top.

Both victims were conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and the 45-year-old was discharged from hospital yesterday. The 43-year-old man is now considered stable.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston said: “We’d like to thank the public for their assistance and patience so far and I would urge anyone who may have further information which can help with our enquiries to come forward.

“We’re currently pursuing various lines of enquiry to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and I would like to reassure the public that there will be an increase in high visibility patrols in the local area over the coming days.”

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

Hibs are backing a national campaign which urges Scots to discuss their organ donation wishes with loved ones.

Seven players donned number 7 shirts in a bid to raise awareness of how the seven words, ‘I’d like to be an organ donor’ can save up to seven lives, and Organ Donation Scotland street teams will be at Sunday’s Edinburgh derby chatting to fans as they head to Easter Road.

Research has shown almost half of people in Scotland (45 per cent) haven’t discussed their organ donation wishes with their family and other football clubs including St Johnstone, Hamilton Accies and Rangers have got behind the number 7 drive in a bid to get more people talking.

Although many think that joining the NHS Organ Donor Register is enough, sharing organ donation wishes remains fundamental to relatives honouring a loved one’s choice in the event of their death.

It’s a subject close to the heart of Hibs fan Claudia Bell, 51, from Edinburgh, whose life has recently been transformed by organ donation.  Claudia received a kidney transplant this January after living with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) for almost thirty years.

Due to her deteriorating kidney function, Claudia began dialysis in 2010 and underwent surgery to have a kidney removed in 2011 – meaning she was able to go on the transplant list later that year.

Claudia’s kidney transplant was made possible thanks to an altruistic donor coming forward, and the Hibs fanatic is now making a steady recovery.

Claudia said: “I can’t believe that a total stranger would show such generosity and offer the most amazing gift to me.  The difference in how I feel after my transplant to how I felt before is remarkable.  I have so much more energy and I don’t have to dialyse anymore which gives me so much more freedom.

“It’s the best gift I’ve ever received.  People need to be aware of the huge difference organ donation can make to someone’s life.  If your family know what your organ donation wishes are, then should they ever have to make that decision, they can maybe make a positive impact on someone else’s life.  This is why it’s so important to discuss your wishes.”

Speaking about her love of Hibernian FC, Claudia said:“I’m a massive Hibs fan.  When I was on dialysis, I actually changed the days I was in hospital so I’d still be able to watch their matches.

“I think getting football clubs on board with this campaign is a brilliant idea.  It’s going to reach a whole new audience of people and a real cross-section of society who might not really have thought about organ donation before or have discussed it with their family.

“Going to the football is something people often do with their families, so it’s the perfect opportunity for them to have the discussion.”

An Hibernian FC spokesperson, said:  “Claudia’s story is inspirational and underlines how important joining the NHS Organ Donor Register really is.  That’s why Hibernian are happy to fully back the campaign, and we hope the involvement of our seven players will urge fans to say those important seven words.”

To find out more about organ donation and to join the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.organdonationscotland.org

Picture by Gareth Easton.  L-R: Martin Boyle, Keith Watson, Paul Hanlon, Mark Oxley, Farid El Alagui, Scott Robertson, Lewis Stevenson

Scotland will prepare for their crucial UEFA Euro 2016 Qualifying match against Republic of Ireland with a Vauxhall International Challenge Match against Qatar on Friday 5 June Easter Road Stadium.

The match will kick-off at 7.45pm and Scotland boss Gordon Strachan who used to attend games at the stadium as a youngster is keen to give his players some match time before travelling to Dublin for one of the biggest games of his tenure.

Strachan said: “We are all looking forward to the next fixture in the European Qualifiers and given the June fixture arrives at a difficult time for ourselves and the Republic of Ireland, essentially between the end of the current season and prior to the start of next season, it is important we plan as meticulously as we can while realising that we won’t know the full picture in terms of our squad’s individual circumstances until May.

“We will ensure those whose seasons finish in early May will have a fitness programme to work on over the break, those involved in play-offs have adequate recovery and maintenance and those who may be involved in Scottish Cup final or FA Cup final also have a programme tailored to their needs.

“The match against Qatar will give us an opportunity for competitive match time before playing the Republic of Ireland and we look forward to playing in front of the fans at Easter Road in June.”

The last time Scotland played at Easter Road Stadium was against Australia on 15 August 2012.

Identity: an exciting new exhibition based on a collaboration between Art in Healthcare’s Outreach Programme and the NHS Lothian’s Parkinson’s Service. A wide range of artworks will be showcased, all created by service users of different healthcare settings in and around Edinburgh. 10am-5pm, St Mary’s Cathedral, Palmerston Place. Ends 22nd April 2015.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Easter Penalties with Joe T. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Yugen Puppet Company Presents Little Princess Goldtree. A wicked stepmother, a beautiful princess and an all knowing, all seeing, magical trout – just the ingredients needed for a fairy tale! For ages 4+ years. 2pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets.

The Edinburgh Science Festival Busking Bike! A great opportunity for children to get involved in some mind-boggling science experiments and dazzling demonstrations as the Edinburgh International Science Festival zooms into the library. 10am-4pm, Stockbridge Library, 11 Hamilton Place.

Puppet Animation Festival: Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot. ‘A strapping tale, filled with shoes, which promises to be a load of old cobblers’.  Garlic Theatre takes you on a fantastical journey to the island of lost shoes, with clowning, mime and beautifully crafted puppets. For ages 4+. 2pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8.50/£6.50 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Lichtenstein Easter Art Explosion! Drop in and join in a range of activities exploring the work of American Pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. Make an artwork out of musical notes and hear your crazy composition performed. Have fun designing a comic strip and create your own personal ‘Wall Explosion‘ – the perfect adornment for any home! 2-4pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required. Also at same times on Saturday 11th April.

Spring Into Leith – Bookbug: for children aged 0-5 and their parents and carers. 10.30am, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Projection: David McDiarmid. David McDiarmid’s studio practice seeks to examine the concept of megalomania in architecture and the means by which the built environment is often designed, constructed and used as a tool for both power and propaganda. In this exhibition the Glasgow-based artist presents a body of work as a culmination of the last three years of research, featuring a new ambitious site-specific installation involving the large-scale projection of miniature scale models. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 2-7pm Wednesday to Friday, 11am-2pm Saturdays, Interview Room 11, 38 Castle Terrace.  Note your intention to attend the preview here. Ends 25th April 2015.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Vision Mechanics Present Twitawoo Puppet Show. A host of fabulous Scottish woodland creatures are brought to life – come and share their fun and mischievous adventures and help them look after their home. For ages 4-8 years and their parents/carers. 10.30am, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Please call WHALE on 0131 458 3267 for tickets.

Eighties Autism Bash! A fun night in aid of No 6 One Stop Shop – Autism Initiatives Scotland. Performances from Kieron Colville, Xena Gabriellefan Jenny Emma Bruce and Mitchell Noble, a Disco Quiz and a chance to dress up in true 80s style. 7pm-12.30am, Shandon Snooker & Pool, 99 Slateford Road. Tickets cost £5 and are available from The Cafe on the Corner, 24a Hill Street or on the door STA. For more information please contact Autism Initiatives’ Community Fundraiser and PR Officer: Holly.Child@aiscotland.org.uk.

Spring Into Leith – Creating Leith: 3D Mapcraft. For children aged 5-12. 3pm, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Family Treats: Animated Short Films. Enjoy an eclectic mix of beautiful visual styles and intriguing animation techniques in this collection of short films, all created within the last 18 months. See some musical seals singing for their supper, a delicate friendship between a rabbit and a deer, a cat and dog who fight in a very unusual way, and a workaholic whose dream holiday is interrupted by some very ancient animals! 4.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings. This screening is part of the Puppet Animation Festival 2015.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 10.30am, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Easter at Leith Library: help to make a 3-D map of Leith. For under 12s. 2.30-3.30pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Wolfblood: live DJ set. 9pm, Victoria Bar, 265 Leith Walk.

Puppet Animations Festival 2015: Lens On Legs – Life On Mars Animation Workshop. Uncover extraterrestrial life in this two-day event – explore storytelling, model making (claymation) and camera handling techniques to build your own stop-motion film. For ages 10+. 11am-3.30pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets. Booking is essential as there are just 10 places. Part Two is at the same times on Saturday 11th April.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Badge Making For all ages. 2.30pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Dr Bunhead’s Exploding Easter Egg Show! Witness the world’s biggest Easter Egg explosion, rainbow foam fountains, the Easter Bunny bazooka and loads more Easter science shenanigans with the world’s favourite TV stunt scientist. Dr Bunhead ‘turns the science curriculum into a burning, bubbling, exploding ball of fun’ (Sunday Times). For ages 7+. 2-3pm, George Square Lecture Theatre, University of Edinburgh, George Square. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked online here or by calling 0844 557 2686. Also 11am-12 noon on Saturday 11th April.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Bookbug. For ages 0-4 years. 10.30am, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Whose Birthday Is It Anyway? A night of fantastic free folk and falafels! With Grant McNeil, Chris Van Tastic, Jordan Moncrieff, Pete Nicholson, Simon Patchett, The Victor Pope Band and The Mean Reds. 5.25-10pm, Area C Coffee House, 239-241 Leith Walk. Please note venue is cash only. BYOB (corkage applies).

Astronomical Society of Edinburgh: Dr Giles Hammond (University of Glasgow) will speak on The International Year of Light 2015. 8pm, Church Centre, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. Non-members welcome: admission free.

Hive Story: Bee-keeping has been enjoying a revival of interest: a new generation of beekeepers is taking advantage of the fact that our cities can provide good foraging for bees. Join members of the Edinburgh & Midlothian Beekeepers’ Association to find out more about bees and what they do for us. For ages 5+. 11am-4pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required.

Fully Fashioned: The Pringle of Scotland Story. Scotland is the birthplace of the knitwear; it was in Hawick in the Scottish Borders that Pringle of Scotland became one of the first luxury knitwear manufacturers in the world. Marking the company’s 200th anniversary, this exhibition traces Pringle’s history from a small hosiery firm making undergarments to an international fashion brand known for its outerwear. 10am-5pm today and daily, Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free. Ends 16th August 2015.

Edinburgh International Harp Festival starts today! Courses, workshops, concerts, open platforms, therapeutic massage, late night sessions, children’s events and an exhibition all feature in this 34th festival, which covers everything from traditional playing to the role of the harp in healing, and the greater prominence of the jazz and pedal harps. The Festival begins tonight with its Opening Gathering, 7-10pm, Memorial Hall, Merchiston Castle School, 294 Colinton Road. The Gathering is free but numbers are limited: tickets will be distributed on a first come, first served basis at the door (open from 6.45pm). Most of the Festival events will take place at Merchiston, with some at the Scottish Storytelling Centre; ticket prices vary (concessions and discounts are available), see website or brochure for details. Bookings can be made online here, by calling 0131 473 2000 or in person at The Hub, Castlehill. Transaction fees apply. Once the Festival has started, tickets will be available to buy (STA) from the Festival Box Office at Merchiston.

Spring Fling!

Oxgangs Film Academy

Family Day at Queensferry Crossing

Record Store Day

Edinburgh Makar’s website

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Forth Replacement Crossing (FRC) Project  Contact and Education Centre are holding a Family Day on 17 April 2015, to allow you to learn more about the Forth Replacement Crossing project, including the Queensferry Crossing.

The family day is free.

Further information on the project can be found on the website at www.queensferrycrossing.info.

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A reminder that Record Store Day takes place next weekend on 18 April 2015. This film will explain to you the fervour with which some fans view the day! Which Edinburgh record stores are you going to visit?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kvn1aXCoc0]

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Have you visited the new website set up for the Edinburgh Makar, Christine de Luca?

It is here.

And here is the Makar reading one of her poems on Soundcloud.

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The candidates nominated to stand in the City of Edinburgh’s five constituencies in the UK Parliamentary Elections on May 7th have been announced.

Nominations for candidates closed on Thursday. 

The nominated candidates for each constituency are listed in full below and on the Council website:

We aim to interview the whole list. Contact us now to arrange a slot!

Edinburgh East Constituency
CORBISHLEY, Oliver John – UK Independence Party (UKIP)
GILMORE, Sheila – Scottish Labour Party
MCCOLL, Peter Andrew – Scottish Green Party
MCMORDIE, James Frederick John – Scottish Conservative and Unionist
SALEEM, Ayesha – Scottish Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition
SHEPPARD, Tommy – Scottish National Party (SNP)
UTTING, Karen Jane – Scottish Liberal Democrats

Edinburgh North & Leith Constituency
BEATTIE-SMITH, Sarah Elizabeth – Scottish Green Party
BROCK, Deidre Leanne – Scottish National Party (SNP)
LAZAROWICZ, Mark – Scottish Labour Party
MCGILL, Iain – Scottish Conservative and Unionist
MELVILLE, Alan Gordon – UK Independence Party (UKIP)
VEART, Martin – Scottish Liberal Democrats
WHITEHEAD, Bruce – Left Unity – Trade Unionists and Socialists

Edinburgh South Constituency
BRIGGS, Miles Edward Frank – Scottish Conservative and Unionist
FOX, Colin Anthony – Scottish Socialist Party
HAY, Neil William – Scottish National Party (SNP)
MARSHALL, Paul – United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP)
MEYER, Phyl Stuart – Scottish Green Party
MURRAY, Ian – Scottish Labour Party
SUBBARAMAN, Pramod – Scottish Liberal Democrats

Edinburgh South West Constituency
CHERRY Joanna Catherine – Scottish National Party (SNP)
DOHERTY Richard Alan – Scottish Green Party
FARTHING-SYKES Dan – Scottish Liberal Democrats
HENDERSON Ricky – Scottish Labour Party
LINDHURST Gordon John – Scottish Conservative and Unionist
LUCAS Richard Crewe  – UK Independence Party (UKIP)

Edinburgh West Constituency
BLACK Pat – Scottish Green Party
CROCKART Mike – Scottish Liberal Democrats
DAY Cammy – Scottish Labour Party
INGLIS George Grant Gordon Otto – UK Independence Party (UKIP)
PATERSON Lindsay Sheila – Scottish Conservative and Unionist
THOMSON Michelle Rhonda – Scottish National Party (SNP)

The Edinburgh Reporter’s Mike Smith had the joyful experience of waiting for a parcel delivery. Clearly, he enjoyed the experience so much he felt he had to share it with our readers…

It seemed like a good idea at the time. The newly appointed Mrs Smith – it’s been nearly two months since we got wed – saw a few things we needed for the house and decided to make the purchases on-line. I’m not one for trailing around the shops, as the new Mrs Smith is beginning to discover, so I encouraged her plan to purchase the goods via t’internet and arranged for a suitable delivery date. As I say, it seemed like a good idea at the time…

My good lady ordered a microwave oven, kettle, toaster, pedal bin, toilet roll holder and electric toothbrush (they were out of cuddly toys) Just as she completed the order Bruce Forsyth appeared with his glamorous assistant and checked the scores on the doors (it’s a Generation thing, younger readers – ask your parents)

Order complete, a delivery date was arranged for Thursday. So far, so good.

Now we may live in an age of instant communication with the aforementioned internet, mobile phones and ‘smart’ technology. We can transfer money between bank accounts in seconds and instantly converse with someone on the other side of the world through wonderful inventions such as Skype. However, there remain tasks which have yet to catch up with technology – and arranging a parcel delivery where everything goes to plan appears to be one of them.

The date was agreed – but the time of delivery couldn’t be arranged. All we could get from one of the country’s leading retail stores was ‘we’ll deliver between 7.00am and 8.00pm’. Really? You can’t be more specific? Not even indicate if delivery will be in the morning or afternoon? ‘No, sorry, all our delivery vans are packed up first thing in the morning and are out all day’.

Hmm. So taking a half day off work won’t help – it will need to be a full day. And you’ll need to have an understanding boss (you want time off for what?! Don’t you know we have a deadline to meet for that report I asked you for?!)

So it was that I arose from my slumber, bleary-eyed, ready for the remote chance the delivery would be bang on 7.00am. As we say in Scotland when two positives go together to form a negative – aye, right.

In the interests of fairness, I should point out here that the delivery of our goods happened at 12.10pm. Ah, so only half the day gone then. The delivery chap, somewhat lacking in customer service skills, handed over three items – two boxes and a black bag.

‘Is that all six items?’ I asked, curiously.

‘No idea, pal’ came the reply. ‘I was just told to deliver three parcels to this address. Are you Mrs Smith?’

‘Do I look like Mrs Smith?’ I asked, not expecting an answer but getting one anyway.

‘No really. Well you’ll need to sign here’ he replied before thrusting a digital contraption into my hand. I signed and he disappeared into the afternoon.

On unwrapping the delivered goods it soon became apparent there was an item missing. The electric toothbrush. With an air of inevitability, I phoned the shop – sorry, retail outlet – which, after a ten minute delay ‘queuing’ to talk to a customer sales agent, brought the following conversation.

‘Have you got an order number?’

‘Yes’ and I reeled off a long code.

‘Hang on, I’ll check on my computer.’ No words were spoken for a few moments, the only sound I could hear was the tapping of a keyboard.

‘Ah, I can see what’s happened’ said the agent with a Lancashire accent (I got enough of these at work…) ‘Your item has been sent to Wales’

‘Really?’ I asked with rising incredulity. ‘Any reason why, given I live in Edinburgh?’

‘Dunno’ she replied. ‘What I’ll do for you is I’ll contact the depot and arrange for another item to be delivered’

‘I’m grateful, I’m sure’ I said. ‘Will this be this afternoon?’ I asked far too optimistically.

‘Oh no’ came the reply, ‘we’ll phone you sometime next week when it’s ready to be despatched’

‘Next week? No, no, no. Can’t you deliver it to one of the Edinburgh shops? I could collect it from there’

‘Hang on, I’ll just check. Which shop would you like it delivered to?’

‘Well the one in central Edinburgh is the one which is less of an inconvenience’

Silence.

‘Hello?’ I asked with a growing feeling of despair. ‘Are you still there?’

‘Yeah, I’m just checking. You can collect it from our central Edinburgh store after 4.00pm’

‘Grand. I’ll go round later this afternoon’

‘Oh no, not today – Monday’

By now, my irritation level was approaching red for danger but I accepted Monday afternoon and left it at that. Until Mrs Smith arrived home and advised she had received a text message from said retailer confirming that, due to unforeseen circumstances, they were unable to deliver the goods ordered.

But they’ll deliver it on Friday.

Sometimes I ask myself why life is so difficult….

Four males have been arrested and charged following the assault and robbery of three women in the Viewcraigs area of Edinburgh last week.

During one incident victims were threatened with a knife.

A 16-year-old appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on the 7th of April and has been remanded in custody, while three juveniles have been bailed to appear at a later date.

Chief Inspector Chris Scobbie, Local Area Commander for South Edinburgh said: “I would like to thank the public for their assistance in this matter, our officers have worked diligently to identify those involved in these incidents and to ensure the community are provided with reassurance.

“Crimes of this nature are rare, however I would like to reiterate that my officers are continuing to patrol the area where these crimes took place in order to provide additional reassurance.”

Hibs’ Development Squad came from behind to win the mini Edinburgh derby at Newtongrange this afternoon.

Hearts took the lead in the 7th minute through Jordan McGhee but Hibs fought back and equalised just before the break when Jordan McGregor headed home a Connor Duthie corner.

In the 69th minute another Duthie corner was headed back across goal by McGregor and Earlston teenager Lewis Allan headed the ball into the net from six yards.

Afterwards, Joe McBride, Hibs U20 Development Coach, told the club website: “I thought we dominated territorially, we got ourselves into some good positions then there were some misplaced passes or the wrong decision made, but the pitch was difficult today. The park was dry and a little bumpy, the temperature was a little bit higher which perhaps slowed the game down.

“The main thing for me was the age of both teams, there was only one player on the pitch who wasn’t a teenager which is great, we had a 16 year old on the pitch and I’m sure Hearts had a few around that age as well. It is great for these kids to play in an under-20 Edinburgh Derby.”

“Lewis’ goal was an opportunist’s goal, he reacted first to a second ball in the box and headed it home from close in.

“He knows he has to add more goals to his game, he has got a lot of attributes, but he is a centre-forward so he needs to score more goals. So that will do him good today.”

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after almost 60 pet rats and rabbits were cruelly abandoned in the Lothians over the Easter Weekend.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity was first alerted on Good Friday when a member of the public discovered 44 rats in a layby on the A68 between the Edinburgh city bypass and Dalkeith. The charity was then alerted to 15 rabbits abandoned on Saturday in the Langton area of East Calder, West Lothian.

The animals are now in the care of the charity’s Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Balerno.

Assistant manager Kenny Sharpe said, “The rats were left inside a cabinet in the lay-by. There is a mixture of male and female rats, some adults and some newborns.

“Thankfully they are all in good condition despite the circumstances. We will care for the rats until we can find them new homes.

“We think the rabbits were dumped and then spread themselves out as they were scattered over several gardens. It’s likely more than one person was involved given the volume of rabbits.

“There are three adults, two of which are pregnant. There are also six bunnies aged around a week old and five ranging from six weeks old to five months old. Sadly, one baby rabbit had to be put to sleep due to a severely damaged back leg.

“This is possibly a case of breeding gone wrong and we are very keen to identify who abandoned these rabbits.

“Anyone with information relating to the rabbits or the rats should call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

Abandoning and causing an animal unnecessary suffering animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

Police  are hosting a home security event in the south of the city as part of an ongoing operation to tackle housebreaking.

Operation RAC was re-launched within the Capital to address an increase in break-ins and vehicle crime and a key aspect of the campaign is to promote crime prevention within local communities.

The seminar will take place between 7pm and 9pm on Wednesday 29th April at the Mayfield Salisbury Church in East Mayfield.

Members of the public are invited to attend for free and receive a range of advice on guidance on safeguarding their properties.

Chief Inspector Scobbie, Local Area Commander for South Edinburgh and the Neighbourhood Watch Scotland Co-ordinator will be present and will provide inputs at the event.

Sergeant Andy Kerr from the South Community Policing Team said: “While officers in the South continue to pursue those responsible for housebreaking and vehicle crime as part of Operation RAC, we are also committed to ensuring the public have all the necessary information to keep themselves and their homes safe.

“The home security seminar in East Mayfield will allow residents the opportunity to speak with police about the range of measures that can be taken to prevent their properties being targeted. “Those in attendance will also be given an insight into the work of Neighbourhood Watch Scotland, illustrating the importance of communities looking out for one another.

“Anyone wishing to participate should come along to the Mayfield Salisbury Church for 7pm on Wednesday 29th April.”

Police are appealing for witnesses following the attempted murder of two men around 6pm last night in Wardieburn Place West.

The men had travelled from the Aberdeen area on the understanding that they were going to purchase a vehicle. Both were attacked within a common stair by two male suspects, who quickly departed the scene, possibly via the large grass area at the rear of the block.

Both men were left with serious injuries and the 43-year-old man is considered to be in a critical condition.

Officers are now eager to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the two suspects.

The first suspect is described as a white man, aged 17-19 years old.  He has a Central Scotland accent and light coloured short hair, which is shaved at the sides.  He was wearing a light coloured sky blue hooded sweatshirt and grey jogging bottoms.

The second suspect is a white man in his mid-twenties.  He has a stocky build and was wearing a striped top.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston said:  “This was an appalling attack on two men who came to the address in good faith.

“This attack happened in daylight and we believe there may be a number of witnesses who may have seen the suspects in the area.

“Anyone with information that can help with our enquiries is urged to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police are reminding football fans that a robust policing operation will be in place at this weekend’s derby match to identify anyone in possession of alcohol, fireworks or flares.

Over 15000 spectators are expected to be within Easter Road Stadium for the game between Hibernian and Hearts, which takes place on Sunday 12th April.

Officers are reminding fans that anti social drinking in the surrounding streets will not be tolerated and the relevant Edinburgh by-law will be enforced.

In addition, police will assist stewards to carry out searches outside the stadium to prevent illegal or prohibited items being brought into the ground.

Superintendent Liz McAinsh said: “Like any derby day, this Sunday promises to be a great atmosphere with thousands within the city coming along to the match or watching it in the city’s pubs.

“The vast majority of supporters demonstrate exemplary behaviour and are a credit to their clubs, however, we will have a number of resources in place to target the minority of individuals whose behaviour can put both themselves and others at risk. This includes officers visiting local pubs and areas where groups gather.

“Officers and stewards will be carrying out searches of fans entering Easter Road and anyone found with illicit or illegal materials will be prohibited from entering and may face further police action.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe is advertising positions for the summer as box office assistants here and applications close on 17 April 2015.

The positions will run from 3 to 31 August

The primary responsibility of the Box Office Sales Assistants is ticket sales, both over the counter at the Fringe Box Office and over the phone in our dedicated call centre. Ideal candidates would be personable, enthusiastic and be capable of providing a high level of customer service. This position reports to the Box Office Manager.

In a programme run in partnership with Home Energy Scotland, residents of Dumbiedykes, Moredun, West Mains, South Queensferry and Niddrie Mill will benefit from investment in cavity wall and loft insulation to improve their homes, reduce carbon emissions and lower their energy bills.

The investment is being delivered through Home Energy Efficiency Programmes for Scotland: Area Based Schemes (HEEPS: ABS), which is part of the Scottish Government’s programme to increase energy efficiency and tackle fuel poverty – two key elements of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy.

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The MoonWalk Scotland is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on 13th June at Inverleith Park and organisers breast cancer charity Walk the Walk are inviting everybody to join them by signing up for one of four different challenges all to raise money, raise awareness, get fit and have fun!

The excitement for the Hottest Party in Town is already building with The Red Hot Chilli Pipers set to perform to thousands of women and men as they enjoy the electric atmosphere before they start their Midnight Challenges.

Edinburgh Castle, Lloyds on the Mound and many other iconic buildings in Scotland’s Capital City will be lit up pink on the night in support of the wonderful walkers and volunteers.

Find out more about how you can join in here

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Two Edinburgh-based writers have been named as two out of four recipients of the 2015 Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship.

Lynsey May (32) and poet and playwright Michael Pedersen (30) have been named by Scottish Book Trust as winners of the award which involves a month-long writing residency in France.

Read more here.

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You may see all recent alcohol licence applications here.

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Making Grass Head Characters: for ages 5-12. 3-4pm, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Blooming Marvellous: a spring craft session bursting with life and fun! 2pm, Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road. £4 per child, accompanying adult free. Booking is essential; call 0131 455 7367 or email admin@waterofleith.org.uk.

Red Kite Animation Workshops: create an animation of anything you can imagine! Red Kite is a Leith-based award-winning production company, specialising in the development and production of children’s animated content; these workshops are for primary school age children. 2-4pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. To book call 0131 529 5517 or email leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk. Some drop-in places may be available on the day.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Joe’s Tricks. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: The Folding Theatre Company Presents Jabberwocky. An evil prince is ruining the kingdom; he taxes the people something rotten! To make matters worse, a plague of monsters has descended on the poor benighted people – something has to be done! It falls to (somewhat gormless) Quentin to track and slay the Jabberwock – if only he had heeded his father’s warnings! But Quentin is doing it all for his beloved Cynthia – and the prince has designs on her as well…. For ages 5+. 10.40-11.15am, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Tickets cost £6 (adults)/£4 (children) and can be booked via eventbrite here.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Angus Arts Magical Miniature Marvels Puppet Making Workshop. Using a fabulous array of materials and methods, create delightful, daring, charming and champion, amazing, astonishing miniature puppets. Create your own scenery, sound effects, music and lighting, and help your puppets perform stunning short shows in magical mini theatres. For all ages – children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 2-4pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Tickets cost £6 (adults)/£4 (children) and can be booked via eventbrite here.

Portrait Gallery Curator’s Talk: Beauty By Design. A monthly chance to chat to the curators about the current exhibitions: this time Kate Anderson, Senior Curator, discusses Beauty By Design. 5.30-6pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: no booking required.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Quintin Jardine: Last Resort. In the 25th instalment in the Bob Skinner series, the former Chief Constable faces the possible end of his police career when a quiet trip to Catalunya takes on a different flavour. 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets may be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. or via eventbrite here.

The Drawing Room: informal, artist-led drawing sessions led by contemporary artists and reflecting concerns within the artist’s work. 5.30-6.45pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. All materials supplied, no experience necessary. Free but booking is required: please contact the Education Department on 0131 624 6410 or email or email education@nationalgalleries.org.

Refugee Survival Trust and Scottish Poetry Library Poetry Reading with WN Herbert: Journeys – reflecting the refugee experience. Dundee makar WN Herbert will open the session by reading his own poems for half an hour; he will then invite others to read and discuss their poems. Members of the public are invited to contact Sarah at fundraising_volunteer@rst.org.uk if they would like to read a poem in English or another language. Refreshments will be provided. 6.30-8pm, Lauriston Hall, Lauriston Street. Tickets cost £5/£4 and may be booked via eventbrite here.

Fine Art Society Edinburgh Spring Show: a collection of paintings, drawings, photography, craft and design from 21 Dumfries and Galloway artists. Preview tonight 6-8pm – RSVP via eventbrite here, then 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, 11am-2pm Saturdays, Dundas Street Gallery, 6 Dundas Street. Ends 25th April 2015.

Locating ‘True Buddhism’ in the Modern World: a special guest lecture by Professor Stephen Berkwitz (Missouri State University). 5.30-6.30pm, Martin Hall, New College, University of Edinburgh, Mound Place. Free and open to all.

All The Fun of the Fair: selected gallery artists bring all the sights and sounds of the Fairground. New work by Kevin Low, Henry Kondracki, David Schofield, Annette Edgar, and new to the gallery, Lindsey Snedden. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 10.30am-6pm Tuesday to Friday, 10.30am-5.30pm Saturdays, 12 noon-6pm Sundays, Union Gallery, 45 Broughton Street.

Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church Thursday Club: The Canary Islands – a talk by Boyd McAdam. 2-4pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 18 West Mayfield. All welcome; membership is £3 per year but you don’t need to be a member to come along! Tea 50p per week. Please contact Florence Smith on 0131 662 1234 for further information.

Jewellery Event: meet renowned Scottish jeweller Chris Lewis and enjoy a complementary glass of prosecco whilst viewing his new ranges in the Portrait Gallery shop. The first 50 guests will receive a National Galleries of Scotland goodie bag, and all attendees will receive 15% off purchases made on the night. 5-7pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

AL Kennedy In Conversation: the multi-award-winning author will read from her work and discuss it with Edinburgh University Writer in Residence Jenni Fagan. ‘AL Kennedy’s books should come with a warning: these stories may break your heart’ (The Independent). 6-7pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson’s Loan, Quartermile. Free: all welcome.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Expedition Botanics. Join Expedition Botanics in the search for traditional knowledge about Colombian rainforest plants. Learn how to survive using the resources of the forest and help to discover how the people of the Amazon use plants in daily life. Collect stamps in your passport as you complete activities in Forest Survival, Plant Hunters, Food of the Gods, Amazonian Animals, Gardens in the Forest, Wise People and Incredible Edibles. For ages 4+. 11am-3.45pm today and every day until Wednesday 15th April (drop-in – trail takes about one hour), Palm House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Tickets cost £5/£3 and may be purchased on arrival on the day, booked online here or by calling the Science Festival office on 0844 557 2686.

Cafe Voices: The Woods are Lovely Dark and Deep. Stories from the forests with much travelled storyteller Daniel Allison, at the Centre’s monthly session in the Storytelling Court, with an open-floor section for storytellers. 7pm, Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre Presents 3 Bears.  For ages 3+ and their parents/carers. 1.30pm, Valley Park Community Centre, 37 Southhouse Road. 50p per child, accompanying adults free; please call 0131 664 2210 to book.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Spotlight On Philosophy and the Sciences. How did cosmology evolve from metaphysics to science? How can the laws of cosmology be tested? What are dark matter and dark energy, and what is the evidence for them? Join philosopher of science Michela Massimi and Peter Davidson, senior curator of Minerals and Meteorites, NMS, to ask the big questions about our universe. For ages 14+. 2-3pm (doors open 1.45pm), Auditorium, Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free but booking is required: click here to book online.

Chris Tracy: live acoustic session with a selection of classic tunes, old and new. 9pm, Old Chain Pier, Trinity Crescent.

Voters in Edinburgh are being urged to check their registration details are correct four weeks ahead of the General Election.
With the campaigns in full swing and poll cards already hitting doormats, citizens are reminded that they must be registered in order to have their say on May 7th.

Tenants and recent movers are the focus of a drive to encourage registration.

Members of the public, including students and people who have moved home since the last time they registered, should check they are on the electoral role ahead of the registration deadline on April 20th.

Nominations close today for General Election Candidates, when the final list of those standing for Edinburgh’s five constituencies will be announced.

Sue Bruce, Chief Executive of City of Edinburgh Council and Returning Officer for the Edinburgh constituencies, said: “Interest in the forthcoming General Election is really starting to build up. It is essential that voters’ registration details are up-to-date so they can cast their votes and I would urge anyone who is unsure to check in plenty of time.”

More than 84% of the city’s residents voted in the Scottish Independence Referendum in September, which saw a record-breaking turnout across the country.

But changes to the electoral registration system could mean some electors need to re-register. Anyone who has moved since August can update their address or other details by visiting the GOV.UK website.

You can check you are registered by phoning the Lothian Valuation Joint Board on 0131 344 2500.
Find out more about where, when and how to vote on the Council website.

Edinburgh-based writer Lynsey May (32) and poet and playwright Michael Pedersen (30) have been named by Scottish Book Trust as two of four recipients of a 2015 Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship, involving a month-long writing residency in France.

Lynsey, who lives in Leith and will attend the residency in June, is a previous Scottish Book Trust New Writer Awardee. She has placed fiction in a variety of journals and publications and has read at a number of literary festivals across the country. During the residency she will work on a new novel set in Leith. Lynsey has lived in and around Edinburgh her whole life, attending university and starting a career in the city.

Commenting on the Fellowship, Lynsey said:

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the wonderful gift of time, space and inspiration the RLS Fellowship offers -and plan to make the most of every minute. I’m particularly looking forward to briefly disengaging with all of the stresses and distractions of everyday life and completely immersing myself in the novel I’m working on.”

Michael, who will attend the residency in November, has published two celebrated chapbooks, and a debut collection Play with Me with Polygon. He is a Canongate Future 40, a 2010 Callum McDonald Memorial Award finalist, the John Mather’s Charitable Trust Rising Star of Literature 2014; as well as a budding playwright and lyricist, and co-founder of the Neu! Reekie! collective. During the residency he’ll work towards a second collection of poetry and on sculpting a feature film script – a collaboration with Scottish Director Robert McKillop.

Commenting on the Fellowship, he said (rather colourfully!):

“I’ve had my lasers set on the RLS Fellowship for a couple of years now but 2015 (for a veritable swarm of reasons) is the paragoning point for it – there’s something more tectonic at play.

“As well as my poetry taking on fresh shapes and forms, I’m exploring a new medium in script writing. Sequel collections and inaugural scripts are both formidable endeavours and what more inspiring a place to tackle such literary behemoths than Grez-sur-Loing. Not only to tackle but to have an arsenal of anointments behind you – those being the RLS Fellowship and its history of lustrous literary and artistic visitants – steam to the engine and then some.

“I was elated to receive the call. There may have been a jump and some sort of rhythmical shimmy that resembled a cumbersome dance-move from decades beyond.”

The Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship was initiated in 1994 by Franki Fewkes, a Scottish RLS enthusiast, and is supported by Creative Scotland. Intended to give writers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives to devote time to their writing, it provides residencies for four writers at the Hôtel Chevillon International Arts Centre at Grez-sur-Loing. Travel and accommodation are paid for, and there is a grant of £300 per week to cover living expenses.

Grez-sur-Loing is situated at the edge of the Forest of Fontainebleau, and was chosen because of its connections with Robert Louis Stevenson who first visited in 1875. It was there, at the Hôtel Chevillon, that he met his future wife Fanny Osbourne. Stevenson found both the place, and its community of writers and artists, highly attractive and he returned to Grez-sur-Loing for three successive summers.

Caitrin Armstrong, Head of Writer Development at Scottish Book Trust, said:

“We’re delighted to offer this fantastic opportunity to such talented, engaging writers. These residencies are a great opportunity for writers to spend time on their work without the distractions of everyday life. I look forward to reading the work Lynsey and Michael produce in such inspirational surroundings.”

The two other successful 2015 Fellows are writer, director and translator Alan McKendrick and debut author Malachy Tallack.

Health Secretary Shona Robison is announcing more funding to allow people to share through an independent website what happens to them when they contact NHS. The Scottish Government hopes this will help them to improve the services.

Patient Opinion is an independent, not for profit social enterprise whose website allows patients to share their experiences, both positive and negative, of health services. Health boards are then able to respond and use this feedback to make changes to improve services.

Health boards will receive a share of up to £180,000 from the Scottish Government each year, until at least 2017, to continue using the website to the best effect.

All health boards respond to experiences shared on the website and since it was introduced in 2011, more than 100 changes have been made to services across Scotland in response to feedback. This includes changes to facilities, signage and food services.

Over the next two years Patient Opinion plan to develop the accessibility of the website, and their work within education to reach health professionals of the future. They have also been in discussions with YoungScot about the best ways to encourage young people to share their experiences of health services.

Ms Robison said:

“I am pleased we can continue to support this service so patients and family members can have their voices heard and in turn, can help improve services across the NHS.

“The website is a valuable resource which has allowed health boards to take direct action in response to patients’ experiences. In addition to suggesting changes, the site also allows members of the public to share their positive experiences of NHS services and thank staff.

“The NHS belongs to everyone and it is only right that those using it should have a say in how it is run. The website is an accessible way for patients and families to give their views, and adds to the range of tools NHS boards use to get feedback from patients.”

Gina Alexander, Director of Patient Opinion Scotland said:

“We are seeing some great connections take place on Patient Opinion which really look as if they are breaking down barriers. These are often the best changes of all.

“People want to know that all their feedback is taken seriously and that it’s acted on, that credit is given where due and that things improve where necessary. Patient Opinion can provide a way for conversations to happen quickly and easily for everyone concerned and for things to be resolved as early as possible.

“We are looking forward to continuing to enable all kinds of voices to be heard in Scotland.”

The cliché used by too many journalists last weekend following Hearts 2-1 defeat at Ibrox was that Robbie Neilson’s men had ‘packed away the tools’. This was a reference to the fact they had clinched the SPFL Championship title a couple of weeks before and so the intensity needed to win in Govan wasn’t there. This irked Neilson who refuted the allegations and anyone who knows the Hearts Head Coach knows he demands a will-to-win approach at all times.

On a balmy spring Wednesday evening Hearts entertained an Alloa Athletic side who had a need-to-win philosophy drilled into them by newly-appointed manager Danny Lennon, the former St. Mirren boss and one-time player of Hibernian.

Neilson rang the changes and seven players from the side which lost on Sunday made way with young goalkeeper Jack Hamilton joining El Hassnaoui, Billy King, James Keatings, Kenny Anderson and two players heading out of Tynecastle Brad McKay and Adam Eckersley who made surprise appearances. With Hearts due to cross the capital city on Sunday to face Hibernian, the Head Coach was clearly resting a few legs.

Despite yet another impressive crowd of more than 15,000, it was one of those games that was difficult to get enthused about. The fans, having celebrated the SPFL Championship title success at games against Queen of the South and Rangers, seemed content to sit back and enjoy the weather. The biggest noise came in the 22^nd minute when a pre-planned appreciation for Shaun Cole, the Hearts supporting soldier who lost his life on holiday the other week was invoked by the home support.

Adam Eckersley was at least trying to gee up his team mates and was clearly heard shouting to those in maroon to *****g move as he tried to instigate an attack. The left back was causing the visiting defence problems with his pace but it seemed no one else in maroon was keen to take advantage.

After half an hour of nothing of note, Hearts almost took the lead when skipper Danny Wilson cut the ball back for James Keatings but the striker’s effort smacked off the post. A huge groan emanated from this reporter who had backed the former Hamilton Accies player to open the scoring…

This seemed to spark some life into the home team as well as the home support. Morgaro Gomis brought out a fine save from Alloa keeper McDowall before Billy King set off on a trademark run before firing his effort from an acute angle over the bar.

If you are wondering what Alloa Athletic were doing at this point the answer is not a great deal. The game looked to be heading for a goalless stalemate as half-time approached – until Callum Paterson drove forward on the right, cut inside the full back and unleashed a brilliant effort from 20 yards which fizzed into the bottom corner of the net. At last, the Wasps resistance had been broken.

Half-time Hearts 1 Alloa Athletic 0

While it took the Maroons 42 minutes to open the scoring, it took them just four minutes of the second half to double their lead. James Keatings swung in a corner from the right and Danny Wilson rose unchallenged to head home Hearts second goal.

A fine flowing move almost resulted in a third goal for the home side but Sam Nicholson’s header from Paterson’s cross was brilliantly saved by McDowall.

There was a rare moment of danger for Hearts when Flannigan fired in a long-range effort which whistled past Jack Hamilton’s post but this merely irked the home side. With 20 minutes left, El Hassnaoui scored a rare goal when he fired home a volley from around 20 yards to seal three comfortable points for Hearts.

Robbie Neilson’s side should have been given the opportunity to make it 4-0 when substitute Gary Oliver was brought down inside the penalty box, However, for reasons known only to him, referee Andrew Dallas – whose father Hugh was such a popular refereeing figure at Tynecastle in the 1990s – refused to award the penalty kick. He did, however send off Alloa’s Docherty a few moments later for a second bookable offence.

Job done for Hearts who can now turn their attention to the Edinburgh derby on Sunday and the clash with promotion play-off hopefuls Hibernian.

Hearts: Hamilton, Paterson, Wilson, Gomis, El Hassnaoui, Nicholson, King, Keatings, Anderson, McKay, Eckersley

Alloa Athletic: McDowall, Ferguson, Docherty, Gordon, Benedictus, Tiffoney, Flannigan, Holmes, McCord, Cawley, Buchanan

Referee: Andrew Dallas

Att: 15,156

Top man: Adam Eckersley – it’s such a shame Robbie Neilson is letting him go. The left back was immense and must have covered every blade of the Tynecastle pitch.