Hibs defeat to Rangers at Easter Road this afternoon means that city rivals Hearts can’t be caught in the race for the Championship.

Second place is likely to go down to the wire however with Hibs three points ahead of Rangers who have a game in hand.

Goals from ex Hearts’ full back Lee Wallace and former Hibs’ striker Kenny Miller secured the three points in a hard fought encounter.

Head Coach Alan Stubbs made two changes to the starting XI that beat Cowdenbeath last Saturday with Paul Hanlon replacing Keith Watson whilst Dominique Malonga took over from the injured Jason Cummings.

Hibs started brightly and Liam Fontaine almost grabbed an early opener after a fantastic cross from Dylan McGeouch, but the big defender’s header went inches past the post.

Dean Shiels fired over the bar then Lewis Stevenson did well to prevent a Nicky Clark cross.

David Gray was shown a yellow card for bringing down Lee Wallace just outside the box but Nicky Law’s free kick flew well over the bar.

Just before the break, Rangers took the lead against the run of play when Bilel Moshni took a quick free kick which found Clark on the left wing. The youngster crossed the ball into the path of Darren McGregor but Stevenson managed to block his shot. The ball however fell into the path of Wallace who slammed it into the top corner of the net.

Keith Watson replaced the injured Gray at half time then Hanlon headed wide from a Scott Allan corner as Hibs pressed for an equaliser.

Rangers continued to look dangerous on the break and Moshni did well to find Kenny Miller who slid the ball into the path of Clark but some great defending from Hanlon kept the score at 1-0.

Moments later a mistake from Moshni gave Franck Dja Djedje an opportunity, but instead of shooting he elected to pass to Malonga and Lee McCulloch managed to clear the ball.

Watson and Allan both had chances before Rangers wrapped things up in controversial circumstances.

Miller sent a hopeful cross into the box and Hanlon was clearly fouled as he attempted to clear the ball. Everyone waited for the whistle apart from Miller who pounced on the loose ball which he calmly slid into the net, sparking a furious reaction from the Hibs’ fans and players.

Hanlon was then booked for his protests and Miller for his celebrations as Rangers held on to secure a valuable three points.

Hibernian: Oxley, Gray (Watson 46’), Hanlon, Fontaine, Stevenson, Robertson (Stanton 77’), Fyvie, McGeouch, Allan, Malonga, Dja Djedje (Boyle 68’). Substitutes not used: Perntreou, Forster, Craig, Handling.

Rangers: Bell, Moshni, Wallace, McCulloch, Law, Clark, Miller (Vuckic 83’) Shiels (Black 74’), McGregor, Zaliukas, Murdoch. Substitutes not used: Robinson, Hutton, Daly, Templeton, Sinnamon.

Referee: Willie Collum.

Attendance: 14,075.

MONDAY 23RD MARCH 2015

Breakthrough Breast Cancer Dominion Film Night: a special showing of Meet the Parents (12) to raise funds for Karen Maitland’s trek to benefit this charity. There will also be a raffle on the night. 6pm, Dominion Cinema, 18 Newbattle Terrace. Tickets cost £10 and should be purchased in advance from the event’s Facebook page or by emailing dominioncinemanight@gmail.com. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to stopping breast cancer for good by improving early diagnosis, developing new treatments and preventing all types of the disease.

Divided City, Divided Self: Muriel Spark in Jeruslaem. In this lecture Dr Nina Fischer, Edgar Astaire Fellow in Jewish Studies, will argue that Muriel Spark’s novel The Mandelbaum Gate takes a stance against orthodoxies, whether they are religious or national, and proposes that seeing more than one story in and of Jerusalem might be a way of overcoming division, a suggestion that is as wise today as it was in 1961. The lecture will be followed by a wine reception. 5.30-6.30, Martin Hall, New College, 1 Mound Place. Free but please book via eventbrite here.

Sofi’s Cult Movie Mondays: popular classics on the silver screen in the cosy, darkened backroom. Free popcorn! This week’s film: The Lego Movie (U): for more information see Sofi’s Facebook page. 8-10pm, Sofi’s Bar, Henderson Street.

It Was Happy Hour at the Nutty Nun: local author Stephen Barnaby launches his second collection of 50-word epics. Thrill to tales of flawed grandmothers, anxious farm animals, cross-dressing clergymen and meglomaniacal dairy products. Swoon to the musical interlude provided by the excellent and equally local acoustic ensemble Tomfoolery. Wine, juice and nibbles will be served – bring your friends! 6.15pm, Portobello Library, 14 Rosefield Avenue.

Cameo Toddler Time: short screenings exclusively for pre-school children and their parents and carers. This week: Toot the Tiny Tugboat (U) – life on the high seas is a whirl of fun and adventure when you’re a little boat with big ideas. 11am, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets cost £3 per child for members of the Toddler Time Club, with accompanying adults admitted free. Membership of the club is free – please ask at the Box Office.

Your Neighbourhood: City Centre & Leith. Come along and find out more about care and support services in your area. 10am-4pm, Craigmillar Library,  101 Niddrie Mains Road. Also at same times at Wester Hailes Library on Tuesday 24th, Leith Library on Wednesday 25th, Drumbrae Library Hub on 31st March and Central Library on 1st April. Organised by Edinburgh City Council and NHS Lothian.

For Crying Out Loud: special screenings for parents/carers and their babies under 12 months. Bottle-warming, baby-changing and buggy-parking facilities available. Maximum 2 adults per baby. This week; The Tales of Hoffman (U) ‘a remarkable Technicolor restoration of Powell and Pressburger’s 1951 musical phantasmagoria..the stuff of beautiful nightmares’. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4.50/£3.50 per adult.

The Happy Lands: The General Strike 1926. A Theatre Workshop Scotland film by Robert Rae, inspired by true stories from local families in Fife, and the second of two films being shown to coincide with the anniversary of the end of the Miners’ Strike in the 1980s. 5.30-7.30pm, George Washington Browne Room , Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free but booking is required and can be made via eventbrite here.

The Edinburgh Philosophy & Psychology Group: meet other people who feel that the world is worth debating in a friendly context. Discussions are non-academic and group members come from a range of ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Attendance is usually around 20 members: topics are chosen by members voting in advance. 8-9.30pm, The Links Hotel & Bar, Alvanley Terrace, Bruntsfield. Non-members welcome. Free – with free sandwiches. See website for more information.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Alex Gray: Keep the Midnight Out. When the body of a red-haired young man is washed up on the shore of the Isle of Mull, Detective Superintendent Lorimer’s tranquil holiday away from the gritty streets of Glasgow is rudely interrupted…as the story switches dramatically between the Mull murder and a Glasgow cold case two decades earlier, DS Lorimer tries desperately to catch a cold-hearted killer. 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets can be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218, emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk or via eventbrite here.

LGBT Spiritual Space: Maxwell Reay, NHS Mental Health Community Chaplain, offers a supportive space for people to discuss and develop ideas of spirituality and identity. For people of all faiths or no faith at all. This month’s session will offer opportunities for individual conversations and information regarding spiritual needs. 6.30-7.30pm (within weekly Drop-In, which runs 5.30-8pm), LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact Alison on 0131 652 3283 or email alison@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Resonate 2015 Strings & Guitar Night: featuring Edinburgh Schools Classical Guitar Ensemble (ESCGE) Edinburgh Primary Sevens String Orchestra (EPSSO), The City of Edinburgh Music School and various Edinburgh Schools Ensembles. This is your chance to see Edinburgh’s budding Benedettis and hopeful Hendrixes all playing together under the expert guidance of instructors from The City of Edinburgh Council’s Instrumental Music Service and The City of Edinburgh Music School.  7pm, The Queen’s Hall, 85-89 Clerk Street. Tickets cost £8/£4 and can be purchased from the Box office in person, online here or by calling 0131 668 2019. Transaction fees apply to online and telephone bookings. Resonate is a collaboration between The Queen’s Hall and the City of Edinburgh Council’s Children and Families Arts & Creative Learning Service, taking place at The Queen’s Hall 9-30th March 2015. It is made possible by support from the Inches Carr Trust.

Katarzyna Kosmala, editor of Sexing the Border: Gender, Art and New Media in Central and Eastern Europe, in conversation with Maria Hlavajova and Rael Artel. Katarzyna Kosmola is Professor of Culture, Media and Visual Arts at the University of the West of Scotland and writes regularly about video, performance and new media art; Maria Hlavajova is founder and artistic director of BAK and artistic director of FORMER WEST, an international collaborative research, education, publication and exhibition project; she is engaged in rethinking the post-feminist /critical histories of the last decades in dialogue with post-Communist realities and postcolonial thought. Rael Artel is a contemporary art curator, and since 2013 Director of Tartu Art Museum, Estonia; her many projects have reflected on socio-political conditions across Europe, and in doing so tested the critical capacity of the arts as comment on and intervention into political, cultural and economic events. 6pm, Word Power Books, West Nicolson Street. Free: donations welcome!

Scottish Shorts 2014: award winning short films from Digicult, Scotland’s internationally renowned new talent studio, working in partnership with Hopscotch Films. Ian Waugh’s As He Lay Falling, Cara Connolly and Martin Clark’s Exchange & Mart, Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson’s Monkey Love Experiments, Martin Smith’s Seagulls and Rory Alexander Stewart’s Wyld. The screening will be hosted by Claudia Yusef, Development Executive of the Scottish Film Talent Network, and director Martin Smith will be on hand to answer questions about his films and any other questions about writing and directing in Scotland. 6.10pm,  Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets can be purchased in person, on line here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688.

TUESDAY 24TH MARCH 2015

David F Ross: The Last Days of Disco. The author will discuss his new novel, ‘ a eulogy to the beauty and power of the 45rpm vinyl record and the small but significant part it played in a small town Ayrshire community in 1982’ with actor and composer Bobby Bluebell. ‘Warm, funny and evocative. If you grew up in the 1980s, you’re going to love this’ (Chris Brookmyre). 6.30pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson’s Loan, Quartermile.

The Hermitage Golf Course Redevelopment Public Consultation: 12 noon-8pm, with presentations at 1.15pm and 7pm, Hermitage Golf Course Cafe, 11 Braids Drive, EH10 6GZ. The Hermitage is an Autism Initiatives Scotland social enterprise.

The Edinburgh Police Choir at Maggie’s: made up of police officers, support staff, employees of the Scottish Police Services Authority and members of the local community, the choir has been performing since 2008, in venues from Edinburgh to New York. ‘A unique mix of musicality, performance and music’. Musical Director: Ben Jones. 6pm, Maggie’s, The Stable, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road.

Your Neighbourhood: City Centre & Leith. Come along and find out more about care and support services in your area. 10am-4pm, Wester Hailes Library, 1 Westside Plaza, Wester Hailes. Also at same times at Leith Library on Wednesday 25th, Drumbrae Library Hub on 31st March and Central Library on 1st April. Organised by Edinburgh City Council and NHS Lothian.

Lunchtime Concert: The Edinburgh Quartet: Tristan Gurney (violin), Gordon Bragg (violin), Fiona Winning (violin) and Mark Bailey (cello) play Purcell Fantasias and Beethoven String Quartet Op 18 No 3. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Garden Buddies Club: a new weekly club for 5-12 year olds – come along today to find out more! Make fun felt bees and mini-insect hotels, Get Fruity – make seriously funny fruit faces, meet Community Gardener Tom who will help run the club, read some magical stories from the Granton Primary Garden Storymakers – AND share your ideas and drawings for what you think the new Awards For All funded library garden should have in it! 3–4pm (time to be confirmed, please check with library in advance), Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace.

Dyslexia-Friendly Library Services for Adults: an informal guide to the accessible services available from Edinburgh City Libraries,with input from Dyslexia Scotland. Come and find out how the libraries are helpful and accessible to people with any level of dyslexia , see how to use the eBooks and emagazines, find out how to fine tune the text to suit you, and learn about audiobooks. The team will try to answer all your questions, or refer you to someone who can! 6.30-8pm, Oxgangs Library, 343 Oxgangs Road North. To book your free place ask at the library, or book online via eventbrite here.

Scottish Poetry Library Workshop: Jennifer Williams, poet and SPL programme manager, facilitates this writing workshop, in which poems are read, discussed and written. Please bring paper and pen or pencil, or laptop if you prefer. Please note change of venue owing to building works at SPL. 6.30-8.30pm, Golden Hare Books, St Stephen Street. Tickets cost £5/£4 and can be purchased via eventbrite here. For more information contact jennifer.williams@spl.org.uk.

Click Clack feat. Steele plays Zappa: a monthly night of live music and other performing arts of an experimental nature…’think Zorn and Ornette meet Beefheart, James Brown and Phillip Glass in a basement bar’.  7-10pm, Henry’s Cellar Bar, Morrison Street.  £6/£4 on the door.

50 Square: a group of young Scottish and international writers based in Edinburgh, offering a range of styles to satisfy any palate. Humour, dark fairy tales, kitchen sink drama, abstraction and everything in between. ‘Don’t miss the next generation of ScotLit!’  7-10pm, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. Free entry! The Bongo Club is a nightclub, live venue and all-round artistic hub owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue.

La bataille de Solferino (2013): Sunday 6th May 2012. Francois Hollande is about to be elected President of the Republic. The Rue de Solferino, HQ of the French Parti Socialiste, is full of militants ready to celebrate their victory. At the same time another battle is in progress: Laetitia, a TV news reporter covering the event, and her former boyfriend Vincent are fighting each other for the custody of their children. When personal stories meet history, the situation worsens. In French with English subtitles. 6-7.30pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Free. Also showing at 1pm on Wednesday 25th March.

The Creative City: It’s War! (‘How to Write a History of the So-Called Creative City: History, Theory and Practice from WW2 to the Present’). A seminar led by Professor Richard Williams (Professor of Contemporary Visual Cultures, University of Edinburgh) as part of the Architectural Theory/History Seminar Series. Professor Williams writes and teaches on cities; his exceptionally wide-ranging work draws on sociology, psychology and film studies as well as the history of art and architecture. His research questions have remained constant: why do cities look the way they do? And what does it feel like to inhabit them? 5.15-6.30pm, Common Room, Minto House, University of Edinburgh, Chambers Street. Free and open to all.

Coffee Break: a new cafe for parents with children up to 18 months old – a space for parents to enjoy a hot drink and home-made treats while getting to know other local parents. 10-11.30am, Church Hall, Portobello & Joppa Parish Church, 1 Brunstane Road North. For more information contact the church’s Children and Youth Worker, Michelle Brown at childrenandyouth@stphilips.co.uk.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Helen Grant: Urban Legends – the launch of the final instalment in the Forbidden Spaces trilogy. A group of storytellers are disappearing one by one. A young woman is haunted by her past. A serial killer has one target he is desperate to hunt down, Veerle is trying to lie low, to live as ‘normal’ a life as she possibly can – but when you’ve thwarted a serial killer it’s hard to do this. Especially when he wants revenge… 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets can be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218, emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk or via eventbrite here.

Love Music Community Choir: hear the world’s biggest community choir on one of its finest stages! Love Music Community Choir will inspire and entertain you with folk tunes, love songs and classic favourites. Pinao: Dave Milligan, Musical Director: Stephen Deazley. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the work of Love Music. There will be a collection after the concert for the charity Scottish Love in Action which cares for and supports vulnerable and destitute children in India. 7.30-8.10pm (approx), Usher Hall, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £5 (free for under-16s and other concessions – see booking site) and can be purchased from the Usher Hall Box Office in person, online here or by calling 0131 228 1155.

Cameo Silver Screen: if you are 60+ you can join the Silver Screen Club for free and enjoy a free tea or coffee and biscuits at the weekly Silver Screen shows, for which your ticket will cost only £5. (Non-members can also attend these screenings but pay normal ticket prices). Today’s films are The Tale of Princess Kaguya (U) at 12.15pm and 3.30pm and Still Alice (12A) at 3.30pm and 3.45pm. For details of how to join the Silver Screen Club ask at the Box Office, Cameo, Home Street.

WEDNESDAY 25TH MARCH 2015

Ceol-Cluaise Presents A Taste of Scottish Talent: a night of up and coming unsigned Scottish music talent, with all proceeds going to Nordoff Robbins, a music therapy charity dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children and adults. Performances from Bella and the Bear, The Irresistible Urges, Newtown Street Locals, The Fed Peasants and No Quarter. Raffle prizes to be won! Over 18 years only. 7.30pm, The Voodoo Rooms, 19a West Register Street. Tickets cost £4 (+ booking fee) in advance (£5 on the door) and can be booked here. For more information see the event’s Facebook page.

The Hugh MacDiarmid Lecture: Alexander McCall Smith discusses Images of Nature and Human Nature in Auden. 7.30-9.30pm, The Saltire Society, 9 Fountain Close. Tickets cost £5/£4 (free for Poetry Association of Scotland members, who should still book) and can be purchased via eventbrite here. This event is organised jointly by the Poetry Association of Scotland and the Scottish Poetry Library. For more information contact jennifer.williams@spl.org.uk.

Your Neighbourhood: City Centre & Leith. Come along and find out more about care and support services in your area. 10am-4pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. Also at same times at Drumbrae Library Hub on 31st March and Central Library on 1st April. Organised by Edinburgh City Council and NHS Lothian.

South Neighbourhood Office and Library Book Group: currently reading The Milkman in the Night by Andrey Kurlov –  ‘a glorious epic, eccentric and often hilarious satire’ (The Times). If you would like to join the group, call into the library to pick up a copy of the book. 1.30pm, South Neighbourhood Office and Library, 40 Captain’s Road.

Figures and Fictions: Contemporary South African Photography. Photography was introduced into South Africa in the mid-19th century; early depictions of people ranged from portraits to anthropological and ethnographic studies. During apartheid (1948-94), photography was used by the state to manage racial classification, but it was also a tool documenting resistance. Martin Barnes, Senior Curator of Photographs, Victoria and Albert Museum, considers how South African photographers address this history today, questioning, manipulating and revitalising its visual codes. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Strange Town Youth Theatre Presents All I Want for Christmas is the Head of Johnny Murdock: a play by Sam Siggs. Amy ‘Squeaker’ Benson has an unusual Yuletide request. She’s taken out a contract on her stepfather – and not for the reasons you might think. For ages 14+ – contains strong language. 7.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £3.50 and can be purchased online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579.  Strange Town is a theatre company that aims to enable young people to fulfill their creative potential, and seeks to offer quality theatre provision for 5-25 year olds in Edinburgh. The company’s directors and leaders also offer their skills and experience as a resource to local communities and schools. Strange Town can be contacted via Out of the Blue, 36 Dalmeny Street or by calling 0131 629 0292.

La bataille de Solferino (2013): Sunday 6th May 2012. Francois Hollande is about to be elected President of the Republic. The Rue de Solferino, HQ of the French Parti Socialiste, is full of militants ready to celebrate their victory. At the same time another battle is in progress: Laetitia, a TV news  reporter covering the event, and her former boyfriend Vincent are fighting each other for the custody of their children. When personal stories meet history, the situation worsens. In French with English subtitles. 1-2.30pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. Free.

Botanic Cottage Update and Stories: an informal talk about the cottage, as it is rebuilt stone by stone. For ages 10+. 1-1.30pm, Blue Shed, Demonstration Garden, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free and unticketed.

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

LGBT Icebreakers: if you are new to Edinburgh, want to meet new people, or are just coming out, Icebreakers is an informal, fun and social group for LGBT people and those questioning their sexuality or gender identity. For ages 18+. 7.30-9.30pm, The Regent Bar, 2 Montrose Terrace. For more information email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Braw Gigs Presents Sacred Paws, Wounded Knee & DJ Yves: Sacred Paws, featuring members of Trashkit and Golden Grrrls, Rachel Aggs and Eilidh Rodgers create ‘a seriously unique combo of angular post punk and African highlife stomp’. Wounded Knee (Drew Wright)  ‘Leith’s very own shamanic soothsayer…performs his very own brand of homebrewed yarns with either a loop pedal or a t’wa string guitar’ and DJ Yves ‘the outernational nationalist that capitalises on existentialist extra-terrestrial sounds…expect tantric rhythms before, during and after’. 7-10pm, Sneaky Pete’s, 73 Cowgate. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked online here (transaction fee applies).

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Karen Campbell: Rise. Justine is running for her life, escaping a city and a man who have almost broken her, she heads north to the valleys and the mountains of the Highlands, looking for somewhere to hide. Michael and Hannah are also running, With their two sons and their tattered marriage, they have come to the village of Kilmacarra, looking for somewhere they can once again call home. In a place of standing stones – an ancient landscape in a country on the brink of change – a shocking accident causes their lives to intertwine. Tangled together in threads of guilt and love, with Scotland rushing towards a Referendum and the community around them fracturing, each must question where they truly belong. ‘On the strength of Rise I will certainly be going to the backlist’ (James Robertson). 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets can be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218, emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk or via eventbrite here.

Lunchtime Concert: Pianists from Edinburgh Napier University. 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Queensferry at War: Queensferry Local History Group presents a talk on the impact of World War One on South Queensferry. Suitable for all ages. 6.45-7.45pm, South Queensferry Library, 9 Shore Road. No booking required – just come along.

Lyceum Youth Theatre Group Presents Pick ‘n’ Mix: a selection of scripts performed as a rehearsed reading. 5pm, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Free. Lyceum Youth Theatre is one of Scotland’s biggest youth theatre companies, renowned as a producer of high quality contemporary theatre by young people. It enables young people aged 5-18 years to get involved in drama, providing a broad range of high quality theatre experiences in a positive and supportive environment.

BAFTA Shorts: a feature-length selection of short live action and animated films from the EE British Academy Film Awards, including Daisy Jacobs’ The Bigger Picture, Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson’s Monkey Love Experiments, Marcus Armitage’s My Dad, Michael Lennox’s Boogaloo and Graham, Rachel Tunnard’s Emotional Fusebox, Oscar Sharp’s The Karman Line, Nick Rowland’s Slap and Aleem Khan’s Three Brothers. 8.35pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets can be purchased in person, on line here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688. Also showing at 8.15pm on Thursday 26th March, when the screening will be followed by a Q & A session with Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson.

Resonate 2015 Traditional Night: a night of music as Scottish as haggis, neeps and tatties, featuring the Edinburgh Schools Clarsach Ensemble (ESCE), Edinburgh Schools Performance Pipe Band (Youth Music Initiative) and a variety of other traditional ensembles. 7pm, The Queen’s Hall, 85-89 Clerk Street. Tickets cost £8/£4 and can be purchased from the Box office in person, online here or by calling 0131 668 2019. Transaction fees apply to online and telephone bookings. Resonate is a collaboration between The Queen’s Hall and the City of Edinburgh Council’s Children and Families Arts & Creative Learning Service, taking place at The Queen’s Hall 9-30th March 2015. It is made possible by support from the Inches Carr Trust.

THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2015

Cameo Big Scream: screenings exclusively for parents and carers with a baby under 12 months. This week: The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (U). 10.30am, Cameo, Home Street. Membership of the Big Scream Club allows you to buy tickets at Picturehouse members’ rates, with babies admitted free; club membership costs £5 and lasts until your baby’s first birthday – ask at the Box Office for details.

On Painting: the first in a monthly series of critical group discussion sessions where artists can present their current painting practice. 7-9pm, The Gallery on the Corner, 34 Northumberland Street. Free but booking is essential: please contact the gallery on 0131 557 8969 (closed Sundays and Mondays).

Spokes Spring Public Meeting: Edinburgh City Centre + Bikes. Spokes is the cycle campaign for the Lothians. Tonight’s speakers will be Cllr Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener, Edinburgh City Council, Richard Darke, Projects Manager, Essential Edinburgh and Professor Tom Rye, Director, Napier Transport Research Institute. The meeting will look at big city-centre decisions due in 2015 – will we see a more people-friendly, less traffic-filled, public realm? How bold will the Council’s east-west city centre route be? Will Princes Street get a traffic-free side (or two)? Will Leith Street get cycle provision? What happens when the experiment in George Street ends? Is a bike-share scheme likely soon? 6.45pm for 7.30pm, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge – there will be an opportunity for coffee and chat and to browse the stalls and exhibition, with the speakers taking the stage at 7.30pm, followed by a Q & A session. For more information please contact mknottenbelt@gmail.com or call 07501 381018.

Guilty As Sin. 9pm, Old Chain Pier, 32 Trinity Crescent. To avoid disappointment advance booking of a table is advised.

BAFTA Shorts: a feature-length selection of short live action and animated films from the EE British Academy Film Awards, including Daisy Jacobs’ The Bigger Picture, Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson’s Monkey Love Experiments, Marcus Armitage’s My Dad, Michael Lennox’s Boogaloo and Graham, Rachel Tunnard’s Emotional Fusebox, Oscar Sharp’s The Karman Line, Nick Rowland’s Slap and Aleem Khan’s Three Brothers. 8.15pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets can be purchased in person, on line here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688. The screening will be followed by a Q & A session with Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson.

Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church Thursday Club: this week Dr Jack Thompson talks about David Livingstone and His Children. Visitors of any age very welcome. 2-4pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 18 West Mayfield. For more information please contact Florence Smith on 0131 663 1234.

Sisters! A screening of Petra Bauer’s 2011 film made with Southall Black Sisters, an organisation providing support for black and ethnic minority women experiencing gender-related violence and inequality. The film is shown as part of Machine Room, Georgia Horgan’s research project about how the proliferation of the textile industry in Scotland affected patterns of witch hunting in the 17th century, and is part of a series of events exploring how women, the body and labour are implicated in contemporary capitalism. 6pm, Collective Gallery, City Observatory, 38 Calton Hill. Machine Room, which takes the form of a workroom containing writing, images and artifacts, continues at Collective until 19th April 2015.

History of Art Thursday Research Seminar Series: Rosetti on Paper. Chaired by Dr Colin Cruise (University of Aberystwyth). The seminar will be followed by drinks in the Minto House Common Room. 5.15pm, Lecture Room 1, Minto House, University of Edinburgh, Chambers Street. Free and open to all.

Resonate 2015 Bands and Orchestras Evening: if you like the big orchestra sound, this concert is for you. Come and listen to the extraordinary sounds created by massed musicians of the Edinburgh Secondary Schools Orchestra (ESSO), Edinburgh Schools Wind Ensemble (ESWE) and Edinburgh Schools String Training Orchestra (ESSTO) 7pm, The Queen’s Hall, 85-89 Clerk Street. Tickets cost £8/£4 and can be purchased from the Box office in person, online here or by calling 0131 668 2019. Transaction fees apply to online and telephone bookings. Resonate is a collaboration between The Queen’s Hall and the City of Edinburgh Council’s Children and Families Arts & Creative Learning Service, taking place at The Queen’s Hall 9-30th March 2015. It is made possible by support from the Inches Carr Trust.

Nothing Ever Happens Here Presents Broken Records + Garden of Elks + Fuzzy Star. Broken Records is an Edinburgh-based band whose third album was released in 2014; its music has also been used on TV dramas including Skins and Lost. For over 18s only. 8pm-1am, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £10 and can be booked online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 560 1581.

LGBT Age (Edinburgh): Spring Into Action with Green Elders. An active outdoor event assisting the park rangers at the Hermitage of Braid. Wear waterproof clothing and boots. Tea and snacks will be provided but please bring your own lunch. A free minibus will be provided from Tynecastle High School to the Hermitage. 10am-3pm – meet promptly at Tynecastle High School, 2 McLeod Street for the bus. Booking is essential: contact Lynda Peachey on 0141 271 2330 or email lynda@lgbthealth.org.uk. The Green Team is an environmental organisation based in Edinburgh.

Ribbon of Wildness: author Peter Wright MBE will be in conversation with geologist Angus Miller as he talks about his epic walk along the Watershed of Scotland in 2005 and the book he has written about it. It took Peter 64 days to cover the entire 745 miles on his solo journey through the majesty of this magnificent landscape. 7-9pm, St Martin’s Church Hall, 232 Dalry Road. Entry £5 (includes tea/coffee and biscuits). All proceeds will go to The Green Team minibus fund. The Green Team is an environmental organisation based in Edinburgh.

Eigg Island: Launch Event. Eigg Island is a collaborative exhibition of art, music and poetry inspired by the landscape and story of the island. New visual arts will be presented, including a series of large-scale paintings by Rose Strang, works by photographer Simon Nicholas White and craftmakers from Eigg, including Catherine Davies, Libby Barnden and Jenny Robertson. In the mid-1980s Eigg’s inhabitants decided to buy out the island before installing an award-winning 100% renewable energy system in 2011. The launch evening will include new music and poetry inspired by Eigg, including a piece for string quartet by composer Atzi Muramatsu and a series of poems created and read by Jennifer L Williams. 7.30pm, Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £6/£4 and can be purchased online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579. The Eigg Island exhibition will continue at the centre until 21st April 2015 and is free to enter.

Pier Paolo Pasolini: The Gospel According to St Matthew (PG) (In Italian with English subtitles). Special screening in association with the Italian Cultural Institute and the University of Edinburgh, as part of a season of events celebrating the work of Pier Paolo Pasolini.  Pasolini’s vision of the life of Christ is astonishing in its inventiveness and understated, hypnotic power. Using non-professional actors, the film was shot near the southern Italian city of Matera, the same location that Mel Gibson would later use for The Passion of Christ. The screening will be introduced by Professor Robert Gordon (University of Cambridge). 5.45pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets can be purchased in person, on line here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688.

Herb Study Group Monthly Meeting: Sage. 8-10pm, Autonomous Centre of Edinburgh, 17 West Montgomery Place.

FRIDAY 27TH MARCH 2015

Easter Bunny Treasure Hunt: with crafts too! For ages 5-8 years. 2-3pm, Blackhall Library, 56 Hillhouse Road.

Craft Afternoon: 3pm today and every Friday, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free: no booking required.

Zoo Arts Extra: Spring Art Walk and Gallery Visit. An art and wildlife walk along the cycle path and Water of Leith from Muirhouse to the Gallery of Modern Art, drawing, foraging and picnicking along the way. For ages 9+ or under-9s accompanied by a responsible adult. 1.15pm (depart from North Edinburgh Arts, Pennywell Court), arriving back by 5pm. For more information and to book, call North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 315 2151 or email admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk. Zoo Arts Extra is a project based in Muirhouse to bring together people of all ages to enjoy, explore and produce visual art locally and across the city.

Edinburgh University Music Society Spring Concert: Stravinsky Firebird Suite, Borodin Polovtsian Dances from Prince Igor and Bartok Concerto for Orchestra. Conductor: Russell Cowieson. 7.30pm, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Tickets cost £10/£5 (concessions)/£3 (members) and can be purchased online here or on the door, subject to availability. Door open 7pm and early arrival is advised.

Kathleen Jamie, Costa Poetry Book Award 2012 winner, in conversation with Jenni Fagan, University of Edinburgh Writer in Residence: 6-7pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson’s Loan, Quartermile. Free.

Sophie Ploeg: The Lace Trail. The Dutch artist, art historian and BP Travel Award winner explores the lavish world of early 17th century Dutch and English portraiture. These portraits and the development of lace and ruffs as a fashion accessory have inspired Sophie to create a series of new paintings which are currently on display within the BP Portrait Award 2015 exhibition. In this talk Sophie will discuss early 17th century portraiture, the development of 17th century lace, and how she was inspired to create the costumes for her paintings. She will also share studio images of the works in progress and explain her working method. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Book and a Brew: borrow some books or take out library membership on the last Friday of the month, and you’ll be invited to join the staff for tea, coffee and cake. 10am-12 noon, South Neighbourhood Office and Library, 40 Captain’s Road.

Gorgie Youth Choir Spring Concert: director Norda Barber. 7pm, Gorgie Dalry Church, 190 Gorgie Road. £3/£1.50. – includes refreshments.

Lee Paterson: 8.30pm, The Skylark, 243 Portobello High Street. Free admission.

Gallery Social: BP Portrait Award. A relaxed and informal guided tour with refreshments for anyone affected by dementia and their relatives, friends and supporters. 10.30am-12 noon, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. To book please call the Information Desk on 0131 624 6560. Supported by the Friends of NGS.

Electrikal: Newham Generals + Blackwax. Grime scene veterans Newham Generals are amongst the most respected and critically acclaimed underground acts in the UK today, having consistently forged new styles and concepts throughout a career spanning three decades. Blackwax’s ‘dark rugged productions…are informed by the UK’s rich heritage in underground electronic music as well as noticeable influences from further afield’. 11pm-3am, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. Early booking is advised: tickets cost £10 in advance (£12 on the door, subject to availability) and can be booked online here. The Bongo Club is a nightclub, live venue and all-round artistic hub owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue.

Neu! Reekie! This time featuring Holy Esque (‘Glasgow’s most exciting and inventive new band’ NME), Edinburgh-based writer, poet, filmmaker and artist Sandra Alland, BAFTA-nominated animator Claire Lamond, singer-songwriter Bill Ryder Jones, and poet, editor and singer Kevin Cadwallender. 7-10.30pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £9/£7 and can be booked online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 560 1581.

Edinburgh Palette Presents Breathe: paintings by Henry Fraser. Preview tonight 6-9pm, then 10am-7pm Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm Saturdays and Sundays, Gallery 1, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Ends 12th April 2015.

Edinburgh Palette Presents Kilns and Cranes: part of a series of large and smaller-scale paintings related to the tanker/frigate image by SSA member Jacqui Higgs. Jacqui’s work captures the changing lights, depths and colours of the North Sea, which lash onto her everyday walks in Edinburgh and beyond. Preview tonight 6-9pm with live music from LouRay2, then 11am-5pm daily, Gallery 2, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Ends 12th April 2015.

Edinburgh Palette Presents Bruce Eckhart: past and present works. Remarkable for their luminous forms and flares of brilliant colour, at first glance Erkhart’s paintings embody abstract expressionism – but the artist reveals, often through his chosen titles, that each imaginative composition contains concrete shapes and figures which he summons from a varied range of sources. Preview tonight 6-9pm, then 10.15am-6pm daily, Gallery 3, St Margaret’s House, 151 London Road. Ends 12th April 2015.

Gerda Stevenson: actress, director, singer and songwriter Gerda Stevenson was nominated for Scots Singer of the Year in the 2014 MG Alba Trad Music Awards and has also been nominated as one of the Saltire Society’s Outstanding Women of Scotland. She has recently released a highly acclaimed debut album Night Touches Day. Gerda will be accompanied by outstanding traditional musicians in an entertaining night of song, music and banter. 7.30-9.30pm, West Street Arts Centre, 4 West St, Penicuik. Tickets cost £10 (£8 for Penicuik Community Arts Association members) and can be purchased online here or from the Gift Shop at 4 West St.

Julia McNairn White: Scottish Seascapes. Following on from Julia McNairn White’s sell-out exhibition last year, The Sutton Gallery presents a new suite of work by the Edinburgh-based artist, featuring oil paintings and pastels depicting the dramatic coastline in and around North Berwick, East Lothian. Open preview tonight 6-8pm, then 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday), The Sutton Gallery, 18a Dundas Street. Ends 25th April 2015.

Guid Crack: Glamourie.  Enchantment can take many forms: wrap yourself in the cloak of a story this evening and leave time itself waiting outside, with storyteller Beverley Bryant. Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling night, upstairs at the Waverley Bar. 7.30pm, Waverley Bar, St Mary’s Street.  No booking required; free – suggested donation £3 per person. Accompanied young adults welcome.

Trad Talk: Nae Plans. Taking their cue from the spontaneity of the trad music session, two of Scotland’s finest folk musicians Hamish Napier (piano, flute, whistle, vocals) and Adam Sutherland (fiddle) sit down on stage without knowing what they will play. The results will thrill, astound and move you. ‘Marvellously organic and intensely alive’ (Sue Wilson, Scotsman). 8pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £10/£8 and can be purchased by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579.  Attendees of Trad Talk may be entitled to a discount – ask at the Box Office.

SATURDAY 28TH MARCH 2015

Family Saturdays: Dessin-moi un petit phantome. At this third all-in-French Family Saturday event your children will be introduced, through cartoons, stories and drawings, to the wee ghosts created by Jacques Duquennoy. As ever there will also be a ‘gouter’ for everyone! For children aged 3-10 years. 12 noon-2pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent. £5 per child (£3 for members): advance booking is recommended and can be made by emailing accueil@ifecosse.org.uk.

St Brides Family Cinema: see your favourite films for free! Juice and choc ices available during the interval for 50p each. Please note: all children aged under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This week: 101 Dalmatians (U) (original 1961 version). 10.30am-12.30pm (includes interval), St Brides Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry.

Institut francais d’Ecosse Open House Spring Session: explore the Institut’s activities, find out about courses for spring, meet the teachers, try a mini-taster course and enjoy a cafe gourmand – children can attend the Family Saturday (see above) at the same time. 12 noon-3pm, Institut francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent.

Children’s Spring Flower Show: the Eco-Schools Daffodil Competition is part of the RCHS Spring Flower Show. Come and see the floral displays and get involved in hands-on activities. 12 noon-5pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free. Also at same times on Sunday 29th March 2015.

Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society Spring Flower Show: 12 noon-5pm, Fletcher Building, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Entry £2, children and students with ID free. Also on Sunday 29th March 2015.

Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt: hop around the Gardens with the family this Easter, answer clues along the way and be rewarded with a delicious Easter chocolate treat. Pick up a trail map from the John Hope Gateway reception desk. From 10am today and every day until 6th April 2015, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. No booking required.

Earth Hour at Boda’s: a totally unplugged acoustic set from Lucas, illuminated only by candlelight. 8.30-9.30pm, Boda’s Bar, 229 Leith Walk.

The Rhubaba Choir Singing Workshop with Christopher Bruerton: Christopher Bruerton is a laid-back Kiwi who also happens to be a member of the internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble The King’s Singers. He is always keen to share his knowledge of ensemble singing with interested listeners: this session will focus on the key aspects of listening, breathing together and engaging with an audience. Using traditional Maori waitata and other folk songs, this will be an interactive day for everyone to participate in and enjoy! It doesn’t matter if you have been in a choir before or only sing in the shower – if you enjoy singing please come along and lend your voice. All are welcome, and lunch and refreshments will be served for everyone involved. 11am-3pm, Basic Mountain, 1a Hill Street. Suggested donation £5.

Tabla Alba and Students from the Sitar Project Present Mehboob Nadeem (sitar) and Vijay Kanguthar (Tabla) in an evening of the very best in Indian classical music, featuring two exceptional artists, both well known to Edinburgh audiences. 7.30pm, Reid Concert Hall, Bristo Square. Tickets cost £10 on the door or in advance from deepchandi108@gmail.com. Tabla Alba has been promoting Indian classical music in Scotland for over a decade; it promotes concerts, teaches in schools, runs evening classes and organises workshops. The Sitar Project began in 2005 and aims to support people who want to learn sitar in Scotland: it meets on Fridays at Tollcross Community Education Centre.

Calton Consort: Herbert Howells Requiem, Gyorgy Ligeti Lux Aeterna. 7.30pm, Canongate Kirk, 153 Canongate. Tickets cost £9/£7.

National Gallery Highlights Tours: an introduction to and tour of the National Gallery’s permanent collection, focusing on key paintings. 2-2.45pm or 3-3.45pm, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

LGBT: Trans* and/or Non-Binary Practical Skills Day: a relaxed and fun opportunity for anyone who is trans* and/or non-binary to take part in some practical activities and workshops in a safe and supportive space. Boost your confidence and explore your gender expression with the opportunity to socialise and meet new people. 11am-3pm – free but booking is essential and the location will be given to you when you book – contact jules@lgbthealth.ork.uk or click here to find out more and reserve your place.

South West Edinburgh Community Learning Partnership: ‘Legal Highs’.  A drugs awareness information session for parents and carers, at which experts will help you to separate the myths from the facts about new psychoactive substances (NPS), many of which can be bought over the internet or in high street shops. 10.30am-12 noon, Community Room, Wester Hailes Library, 1 Westside Plaza, Wester Hailes. Free but please book by calling Anne or Christine on 0131 458 5959.

Linlithgow Green Film Festival: inspiring films and documentaries highlighting issues on the environment, climate change and sustainability. Today: Powerful: Tackling the spin of the big energy lobby and equally dispelling the myth of a ‘green utopia’, Powerful is a candid examination of what a sustainable future may actually look like. From amazing innovators and eccentric eco-activists to average communities completely powered by renewable energy, green economy educator David Chernushenko embarks on a global journey, discovering that the implications for political, economic and democratic change are right here on our doorsteps – or just above them. 7pm, Linlithgow Palace Undercroft, Linlithgow. Admission by suggested donation of £5. Soft drinks and locally made cakes will be available. This screening coincides with Earth Hour and will conclude with the switching off of the lights at Linlithgow Palace. Transition Linlithgow is a community-led charity that aims to make Linlithgow a more caring, sharing and resilient place to live, with a focus on finding a beneficial pathway towards a low-carbon future.

Out of the Blue Flea Market: over 45 stalls – small furniture, clothes, jewellery, books, music, bric a brac and more. Delicious coffee, cake and lunch available to purchase from the Drill Hall Arts Cafe. 10am-3pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street.

Trad Talk: Crossing Points. Two of Scotland’s finest traditional singers, Kathleen MacInnes and Fiona Hunter, find musical crossing points, echoing across landscapes and centuries. An enchanting night of exchange and celebration between Scots and Gaelic, accompanied by multi-instrumentalist Mike Vass.  8pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £10/£8 and can be purchased online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579. Attendees of Trad Talk may be entitled to a discount – ask at the Box Office.

Frank Walter: a major solo exhibition of the Antiguan outsider artist and self-styled ‘7th Prince of the West Indies, Lord of Follies and the Ding-a-Ding Nook’. Walter was born in Antigua in 1926; prodigiously talented as both an artist and writer, his undeniable genius was flawed by delusions of aristocratic grandeur. His gifts were the product of a fertile but fragile mind, and he spent the last 25 years of his life in an isolated shack on an Antiguan hillside, surrounded by his writings and the extraordinary paintings and carvings that speak with such an unmistakable voice and which announce the discovery of one of the most intriguing and distinctive Caribbean artists of the last 50 years. This exhibition will present the most comprehensive view yet of Frank Walter the artist, assembled from private collections and from the artist’s estate. 10am-6pm Monday to Saturday, Ingleby Gallery, 15 Calton Road. Ends 23rd May 2015.

Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers: German Music for Holy Week and Easter. Compositions by Lassus, Praetorius, Scheidt, Schein and Schutz, performed with period wind instruments. Director: Dr Noel O’Regan. 7.45pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Tickets cost £8/£5.

Scots Music Group Ceilidh with Da Hooley. 7.30pm (dancing from 8pm), St Brides Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Tickets cost £8/£6 in advance from St Brides (0131 346 1405) or The Scots Music Group (0131 555 7668), £10/£8 on the door. Please note there will be a licensed bar and only alcohol purchased from it can be consumed on the premises: water will be freely available.

SUNDAY 29TH MARCH 2015

Fiona Baird: how to train your puppy. A free advice session! Fiona Baird grew up in the Ashdown Forest in Sussex, surrounded by well-behaved golden retrievers. Using her successful no-nonsense methods she has now trained over 25 breeds of dog. 2.30pm, The Edinburgh Bookshop, 219 Bruntsfield Place. Free – but please book by calling the shop on 0131 447 1917.

Water of Leith Conservation Trust River Clean-Up: join the volunteer team this morning as they launch the Water of Leith Spring Clean. Wear old clothes! 10am, Water of Leith Conservation Trust Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road.

Kenny Herbert: the singer, guitarist and entertainer performs. 7-9pm, Cafe Grande, 184 Bruntsfield Place. Free entry.

Children’s Spring Flower Show: the Eco-Schools Daffodil Competition is part of the RCHS Spring Flower Show. Come and see the floral displays and get involved in hands-on activities. 12 noon-5pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free.

Filmhouse Junior: films for a younger audience. This week: Big Hero 6 (PG). 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4 per person, big or small.

Celebrating Your Story: the joy of sharing stories with others. ‘There is no greater burden than bearing an untold story within’ (Maya Angelou). A story sharing event with Dr Michael Williams, a professional story-coach and storyteller with over 30 years experience, and the Playback Edinburgh Theatre Company. No experience needed. 3.30 (registration from 3pm)- 6pm, Sanctuary, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. Fee: £8/£7. For a registration form contact Neill Walker at mesp2015@hotmail.com or 0131 331 4469. Part of The Edinburgh International Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Festival (MESP) 2015. 

Shore Poets – March: live readings from John Glenday, Molly Vogel and Hamish Whyte, plus live music and the lemon cake raffle! 7.45pm, Henderson’s @ St John’s, St John’s Terrace, 3 Lothian Road. Admission £5/£3 on the door. For more information contact publicity@shorepoets.org.uk.

Rock and Roll Ping Pong with DJ Ding and DJ Dong: free, silly ping pong games and music from every genre to play along to, plus a strictly optional and amateur tournament (£1 to enter, winner takes all). 7-11pm, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. Free entry. The Bongo Club is a nightclub, live venue and all-round artistic hub owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue.

Cameo Vintage Sundays: The Philadelphia Story (U). ‘Classic films back on the big screen where they belong’. A beautiful new digital restoration of one of the greatest romantic comedies ever made. Katherine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart star in the fast-talking tale of a society wedding threatened by a scandal. 12 noon, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0871 902 5723.

St Giles’ At Six: Music for Passiontide. St Giles’ Cathedral Choir, conducted by Michael Harris, performs Brahms Requiem in the original piano duet version, with Carine Tinney (soprano), Hugh Hillyard-Parker (bass), and Peter Backhouse and Chris Harding (piano). 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

A Night of Music in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust with some of Scotland’s finest up and coming talent. Performers include Lewis Webster, Caitlyn Vanbeck, Dionne Hickey, Jamie Lee Morley, Saskia, Shinade Demarco and Jade Burke, with DJ support from New Level Entertainment, + raffle, games and disco. 7pm, The Baron Suite, Corn Exchange, 11 New Market Road. Tickets cost £5  and can be obtained by calling 07969 366283

Balerno Branch Railway Weekend: Colinton Local History Society, Colinton Village Events and The Water of Leith Conservation Trust host a model railway exhibition of Colinton Station and the surrounding area (including the adjacent Scott’s Porage Oats mill), created by enthusiast Alistair Dickson, along with other displays of maps and photographs of the Balerno Branch Line. During the heyday of the Caledonian Railway’s Balerno Branch up to 21 passenger trains ran daily, carrying over 250,000 passengers a year. The line closed in 1943. Alistair will give a talk about the creation of the model at 11.30am today, and there will be a guided Railway Ramble at 1pm (see below for details). 10am-4pm, Water of Leith Conservation Trust Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road. The exhibition is free to visit, but donations would be much appreciated.

Railway Ramble: join this special guided walk to discover the route of the old railway from Colinton to Slateford. Meet at 1pm in the car park under Gillespie Bridge in Colinton, off Bridge Road. £4/£2 (members). Booking is essential. The walk will end at the Water of Leith Conservation Trust Visitor Centre, where you can see the Balerno Branch Line exhibition. For more information or to book, please call Helen Brown on 0131 455 7467 or email admin@waterofleith.org.uk.

Filmhouse Junior: films for a younger audience. This week: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (PG). 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4 per person, big or small.

Storytelling: Macastory’s Jacobites, Fights and a Prince in Tights! Macastory are off to Jacobite times, sharpening their claymores and marching south with Bonny Prince Charlie! Come along, join up with the Jacobite army and hear tales of daring adventure, brave battles and incredible escapes. Meet the clansmen who fought for the Prince and listen as they tell their stories…you’ll even have a chance to take part  in a Highland charge! Lots of songs too. For ages 7+. 2pm, 2.45pm or 3.30pm (30 minute sessions), Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed. Supported by the Friends of NGS.

The Big Screen Movie Day: this month family favourite The Goonies (12A). Free popcorn! 2pm, Boda’s Bar, 229 Leith Walk.

Science Sunday: come and enjoy an afternoon of demos, activities and mini-challenges as part of British Science Week. 12 noon-4pm, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free, drop-in.

Edinburgh Printmakers’ Clearance Sale: amazing pieces of art grouped by price and starting at just £10. This one-off fundraising event allows you to pick up rare and unusual fine art prints at a fraction of their original price. 11am-4pm (unless sold out earlier), Edinburgh Printmakers, Union Street.

LGBT: Me & T Monthly. A supportive space for people who have friends, family or partners who are transgender or exploring their gender – an opportunity to meet other people who may have similar experiences, questions or concerns. 2-4pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information email me.and.t.edinburgh@gmail.com.

Resonate 2015 Jazz & Rock Night: rock ‘n’ roll the night away with the Edinburgh Schools Jazz Orchestra (ESJO) and the Edinburgh Schools Rock Ensemble (ESRE). ESJO is celebrating its 25th birthday; ESRE may be younger, but it is just as entertaining! 7pm, The Queen’s Hall, 85-89 Clerk Street. Tickets cost £8/£4 and can be purchased from the Box office in person, online here or by calling 0131 668 2019. Transaction fees apply to online and telephone bookings. Resonate is a collaboration between The Queen’s Hall and the City of Edinburgh Council’s Children and Families Arts & Creative Learning Service, taking place at The Queen’s Hall 9-30th March 2015. It is made possible by support from the Inches Carr Trust.

St Giles’ At Six: Edinburgh Napier University Chamber Choir ‘Evening‘. Elgar: My love dwelt in a northern land, Brahms: In stiller nacht, Coleridge Taylor: The Evening Star, Sullivan: The long day closes, Robin McLeish: Three Songs (first performance) and Ivo Antognini: There is another sky. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

Edinburgh MSP congratulates University of Edinburgh

100 years of planning

The Great War – a Commemoration

Edinburgh travel companies to take part in VisitScotland expo

Award winning gin from North Berwick

Jim Eadie, MSP for Edinburgh Southern, has tabled a parliamentary motion congratulating the University of Edinburgh on rising 17 places to 29th in the 2015 Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings.

The University of Edinburgh is the only Scottish institution to make it onto the rankings, which incorporate the 100 most powerful global university brands.

In a statement, Jim Eadie said:

“It is fantastic to see the University of Edinburgh rise 17 places to 29^th in these latest rankings, consolidating its position as one of the world’s leading research and teaching establishments.

“The University of Edinburgh is truly world class and is a credit to Scotland’s education system. I am delighted to be able to pay tribute to the quality, hard work and dedication of the university’s staff and students.”

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The 100 Years of Planning temporary display, which launched at the Council’s Waverley Court in September before touring different corners of the city, takes the visitor through ten decades of the Edinburgh skyline from 1914 to the present day.

From the father of modern town planning, Sir Patrick Geddes, to the man who designed Edinburgh’s iconic police boxes, Ebenezer James Macrae, the exhibition takes a look at the personalities who have made significant contributions to the cityscape of the Capital.

The Museum of Edinburgh is housed in a series of 16th to 18th century buildings arranged around a close off the Royal Mile, making parts of the site up to 500 years old. The exhibition is free to enter and will remain in the Museum until 20 June 2015.

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At the Signet Library on Thursday there was an evening of Great War entertainment. Sparked by the publication of Edinburgh lawyer Alastair Shepherd’s new book investigating those Writers to the Signet who had perished in the First World War, the evening included both music and theatre. There was a performance by David Clarke who portrayed a war survivor, and music from the WS Orchestra who played the Cecil Coles piece Sorrowful Dance for the first time in Scotland.

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The Edinburgh Reporter News from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

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A number of new exhibitors from Edinburgh and The Lothians will be attending Scotland’s biggest travel trade event, VisitScotland expo this year.

*HAGGiS Adventures, Viajar Por Escocia/Scozia Tour, The Rutland Hotel and Apartments, The Splendid Hospitality Group, Village Urban Resort, Scotland’s Churches Trust – The Pilgrim Journeys Project, Spirit of Scotland, Scotland’s Golf Coast and Rosslyn Chapel will all be exhibiting at this year’s biggest travel trade event for the first time.

Also in a first for the trade show Visit West Lothian, Visit East Lothian and Midlothian Council will be partnering as ‘Visit the Lothians’ to showcase the area as a central destination for tourism, as well as launching a new website.

More than £24 million worth of business is likely to be conducted over the two days of VisitScotland expo, which takes place in just six weeks at Aberdeen’s AECC on 22^nd and 23rd April 2015. Scotland will be promoted by over 200 businesses from across the country with a Scottish tourism product to highlight. Compared to 2014’s expo at Glasgow’s SECC, there will be at least a 33% increase in new exhibitors.

Tourism businesses from across Scotland will have the opportunity to showcase the very best the country has to offer, including food and drink, accommodation, entertainment, culture, scenery and attractions.

It was recently announced that Aberdeenshire Council and VisitAberdeen are to be official destination partners at this year’s VisitScotland expo. The partnership with VisitScotland will offer both Aberdeenshire Council and VisitAberdeen stand space and marketing opportunities to further promote Aberdeen City and Shire to tourism businesses.

VisitScotland expo will be attended by almost 380 hosted international buyers and over 200 hand-picked UK based buyers, including tour operators, wholesalers, travel agents and travel media.

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NB Gin has won the ‘Best London Dry Gin’ category at The World Drinks Awards 2015, the results of which were announced during lunch at the Whiskies and Spirits Conference in London last week.

The awards were presented by the Chair and Editor of TheDrinksReport.com, Felicity Murray and were selected by an international panel of experts over three rounds of judging. Felicity says: “The judges of both the Taste and Design categories were extremely discerning – all those who have won an award can be justifiably proud.”

Vivienne Muir, director at NB Gin, says: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won this prestigious award. From the very beginning, our focus has been on quality and we’re thrilled that this has been recognised at The World Drinks Awards. To have come this far in the 18 months since we launched NB Gin is just unbelievable. We’re extremely proud of this achievement and very thankful to everyone who has supported us.”

NB Gin is produced by Vivienne and her husband Steve in a custom-made copper still at their micro-distillery in North Berwick, East Lothian. Using the London Dry Gin distillation process, it’s made from pure British grain spirit and a blend of eight botanicals, all of which have been meticulously selected to produce a smooth and balanced flavour.

The Muirs say that demand for NB Gin has been overwhelming. As a result, they have upgraded their equipment and expanded their premises for the second time in a year to make sure that they’re geared up for more significant production. They have also launched a new website at www.nbgin.com

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Ireland beat Scotland and take the 6 Nations Championship.

However, they had to wait until England failed to beat France by, at least, 26 points before they could be awarded the title. And it was close, as England outplayed France to win 55-35 – just six points short.

Still, it was to prove another hard day at the coalface for Vern Cotter’s men as Ireland were simply too good for the Scots who played well in parts, but just couldn’t get going to any great extent against the team vying for the Championship,

Scotland started well and were up in the Irish 22 early on, but Ireland held out and a quick turnover in the midfield gave them the ball and field position. Winning ball from a scrum near halfway, the ball was whipped across the pitch to the left and it was only a last gasp tackle by Stuart Hogg that prevented the try. But the visitors were now close in and a series of rucks moved the play across the front of the posts to where Paul O’Connoll could dig the ball out and dive over for the opening try. A call for a TMO check delayed the confirmation, but all was well and, with Johnny Sexton adding the extras, Ireland were 7-0 ahead after 5 minutes.

The next five minutes were, essentially, a repeat of the first five, but this time Ireland had to settle for a Sexton penalty which moved the score up to 10-0.

Scotland then seemed to come alive and spent the next seven or eight minutes on the offensive. They won the restart ball and quickly moved the ball along the line, but Ireland managed to turn them over and clear. However, they had done so illegally and Scotland were awarded a penalty. Proceedings were then delayed for a few minutes as first the referee had to have treatment for a blood injury, then Dougie Fife left the field to get sewn back together, closely followed by Euan Murray – also for a blood bin ‘seeing to’. The ref was quickly cleaned up, Visser came on for Fife and Geoff Cross came on for Murray and play resumed.

Scotland won the lineout and then the next for another penalty, which set them up close to the Irish line. Jonny Gray and David Denton both had a run at the defence, but when the ball was moved out to Visser, he was gang-tackled off the pitch. Ireland won their lineout, but O’Connoll knocked on, giving the ball back to Scotland about 10 metres out. Greg Laidlaw’s pass off the back of the scrum found Finn Russell who then put Matt Scott into a gap. But it was a gap that was quickly closed and the ball was eventually won back and cleared by Ireland. Back came the Scots though and this time they were rewarded with a penalty in front of the posts which Laidlaw slotted for a 10-3 score.

The Scots then dominated the next eight or nine minutes, but couldn’t get through and then Ireland had a sniff of the ball and were off. A couple of simple plays later, quick lineout and No 7, Sean O’Brien peeled off the back and fired himself in for the try. Sexton scored the conversion and Ireland were 17-3 up with 26 minutes played.

Then hope for the home side as Jim Hamilton found himself in possession and lumbered off upfield with only Luke Fitzgerald to barge over. However, O’Connell was in an equally lumbering pursuit Usain Bolt has nothing to worry about! – and this distracted the Scot and allowed Fitzgerald to line him up.

But Scotland were on the up and they followed up with fair bit of running play, culminating in a kick into space. Rob Kearney, usually solid under the high ball was forced into an error by Hogg who collected the loose ball, off-loaded to Tommy Seymour who then made ground, but was stopped well short. But, he got the ball away and it ended up with Finn Russell who galloped round the outside of the defence to dot down behind the posts. Adding Laidlaw’s conversion took the score up to 17-10 to Ireland with less than 10 minutes to play.

It was starting to look good for Scotland and they crossed the line again with a few minutes left, but Hogg’s touchdown was disallowed due to Matt Scott’s knock on.

The second half was almost all Ireland. Scotland had a few goes at the line and even managed to get Hogg over again in the 74^th minute, but he had dropped the ball as he was hit hard just as he was about to ground the ball, so ‘No Try’.

A few minutes in and the visitors added to their score with another Sexton penalty – 20-10 – followed up by another and then their third try and conversion on the 50 minute mark, Jared Payne and Sexton combining to make it a 30-10 score line.

Scotland were now under severe pressure and lost Hamilton and Cross in quick succession and nearly lost another three points to Sexton, but the upright came to Scotland’s aid.

A raft of subs then came on to help, but despite a fine period of play, Ireland went a further three points clear, to 33-10, from another Sexton penalty.

With Hidalgo-Clyne – who was to put in a, late on, Hogg-esque try-saver on Tommy Bowe –  on for Laidlaw, Scotland’s recycle play stepped up a gear and they were quickly up near the Irish line, but once again the ball was lost and cleared well into the hosts 22. And, once again, Ireland were on the attack and this time around, their foray into the Scots’ 22 was rewarded with O’Brien’s second try of the match, Sexton’s conversion and an Ireland lead of 40-10. Scotland did get Hogg across the line as described above, but it was all over and Ireland had completed their part of the equation and could do nothing more, but wait and see.

The rest, as they say, is now history. Ireland took the title and Scotland took the Wooden Spoon following a whitewash series – their second since 2012 and while they can, and do, play good attractive rugby, they can’t seem to play it for long enough. Ireland today, however, were out of sight.

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

SPFL Championship, Saturday 21 March 2015 – The Falkirk Stadium 

Hearts march towards the SPFL Championship title continued when Robbie Neilson’s side visited what has become their bogey team in recent years – Falkirk. The Bairns have been the only side to defeat the Maroons in the league this season and, despite knowing that victory would take his side to within one more victory of winning the title and thereby securing promotion back to the SPFL Premiership, Neilson was wary of the challenge of Peter Houston’s side who themselves are hoping to reach the promotion play-offs. In the end, though, Falkirk became the latest victims of Hearts surge towards the title.

As is his want, Neilson made three changes to the side that despatched Raith Rovers on Tuesday evening with Adam Eckersley, Jamie Walker and Osman Sow coming in for Kevin McHattie, Sam Nicholson and James Keatings.

Hearts should have gone ahead in the tenth minute. Genero Zeefuik was set up by Sow but the big striker’s shot at goal was straight at the Falkirk keeper, former Jambo Jamie MacDonald.

Falkirk had some early chances and had a goal chalked off for offside before Neil Alexander saved well from Morgan.

In the 28^th minute Hearts went ahead. Great play from Osman Sow saw him hold off a challenge before the Swede cut the ball back to Jamie Walker who fired home from around 12 yards to the delight of the 3,500 travelling Maroon Army.

It was all Hearts now and Sow fired in an effort which produced a brilliant save from MacDonald. It was thanks to Jamie Mac that there was no further scoring in the first half.

Half-time Falkirk 0 Hearts 1 

Hearts took just two minutes of the second half to double their lead. Adam Eckersley raced past the Falkirk defence before passing to Jamie Walker. The youngster quickly found Zeefuik who made up for his miss in the first half and buried the ball past MacDonald to make it 2-0.

The Bairns tried hard to get back into the game and Vaulks headed wide before Eckersley cleared off the line as Hearts tried to absorb home pressure.

Jamie Walker was proving to be a real handful for the home defenders and he fired in another effort which brought yet another fine save from MacDonald.

It was left to Hearts substitute James Keatings to complete the scoring. He latched on to a Callum Paterson pass before curling a fine shot beyond MacDonald to make it 3-0.

Game over and, to all intents and purposes, league title over as the SPFL can begin franking the parcel that contains the Championship League flag before sending it to McLeod Street, Edinburgh.

A Hearts win against Queen of the South at Tynecastle next Saturday will clinch the league and promotion to Scottish football’s top flight after a year’s absence. Indeed, should Hibernian fail to beat Rangers at Easter Road tomorrow, the SPFL chiefs can send the flag to Gorgie first thing on Monday morning.

Not that this cut much ice with Mr Neilson after the game. “I would like us to win the title in front of our own fans at Tynecastle” said the Hearts boss. “If it happens tomorrow so be it. No matter what, the boys will be in on Sunday preparing for the Queen of the South game” It’s that kind of approach and thorough preparation that has Hearts where they are today.

Party time beckons for Hearts after what has been a magnificent season. Robbie Neilson’s men will grace the SPFL Premiership next season. Roll on August!

Falkirk: MacDonald, Duffie, McCracken, Vaulks, Taiwo, Sibbald, Kerr, Grant, Leahy, Baird, Morgan

Hearts: Alexander, Paterson, Wilson, Ozturk, Gomis, Walker, King, Pallardo, Sow, Zeefuik, Eckersley.  

Referee: Crawford Allan

Top man: Jamie Walker

Att: 7,735

Edinburgh residents are effectively leaving their homes open to burglary because of a naïve attitude to social media, a study finds.

Personal information, crucial for burglars in targeting properties, is being posted on social media accounts through status updates, photographs, and location tags.

An overwhelming 83% of Edinburgh’s social media users admit to tagging themselves at the airport to let their social media followers of their activity. In doing so, they are informing potential criminals of their empty homes.

Once at their sunny destination, Edinburgh residents continue to pass information on, with over half tagging themselves as being abroad, putting their home at further risk.

Over half of residents only privatise certain posts, or leave their profiles entirely public. This means potential criminals can view what individuals own, and be notified when their home is vacant.

Following a spate of high profile burglaries related to social media – notably former boxing champion Ricky Hatton – it seems that though we wouldn’t leave our windows open or keys in the door, we are taking risks like this every day online.

Not only can burglars openly see these social media profiles, but the profiles themselves are rife with further information that help burglars to get their foot in your front door.

The study, by home security company Safe Shop, also found:

• Men are more likely to post photos or tag into locations when out of the house
• Nightclubs and cinemas are also popular for people tagging in on social media

 To see how you can avoid advertising your home and possessions to would-be burglars on social media, see the Safe Shop’s comprehensive guide on how to safe-guard sensitive information online.

Security expert, Anthony Neary of Safe, offers advice:

“It’s worrying to see such a high number of Edinburgh social media users putting their homes and possessions at risk for the sake of updating mates about their holiday. You must be aware of what information you are putting out there. If given the chance burglars now have the opportunity to take advantage of personal information available on social media.”

“Ensure that crime can be prevented by securing your accounts to limit what can be seen of posts, location tags, and photographs.”

“Our advice is simple: Don’t tweet the burglar!”

Mike Hine, Deputy Editor at Infosecurity magazine, commented on the findings:

“There is no doubt that publicising one’s whereabouts frequently, or at all times, is risky if this information is viewable by anyone.

“Criminals can use personal information like this to build a profile of that person’s behaviour which can make them more susceptible to a range of crimes.”

Hibs’ Head Coach Alan Stubbs was at Ibrox midweek to watch Sunday’s opponents Rangers draw 2-2 with Alloa Athletic, a result which leaves the Easter Road side six points clear in second place, but he insists that he is concentrating on how his players perform rather than what happens elsewhere.

Stubbs goes into Sunday’s game knowing that three points would go a long way to securing second spot and the potential to play to less play off ties which could ultimately prove vital in the promotion race.

Speaking to Hibs TV, Stubbs said: “Stuart (McCall) reported that there had been an improvemnet from the Livingston game and if that was the case then so be it. They slightly changed their formation and went with a 4-3-3 at the start and changed near the end when they were chaing the game.

“We will have to wait and see what happens on Sunday but the most important thing is that we will be concentrating on ourselves and what we do.

“We will give Rangers the respect they deserve but we need to make sure that we focus on what we are going to do.

“We are certainly doing the right things and I am pleased with where we are. I think the form and the desire of the team is very good. We are where we want to be, right in the thick of things.

“We are in a good position as we speak and we can make that even stronger on Sunday but we have to make sure that we still have that determination to stay there come the end of the season.

“The most important thing is that wer are still in second position at the end of May.

“From the bigger picture we are not going to win anything on sunday. We have a chance to make it harder for the teams below us to catch us but that’s been the case the last few weeks. We need to concentrate on ourselves and keep picking up three points.

“Sunday is a big game, there’s no denying that but every game is a big game and that is because of the position we are in so as far as I am concerned, yes, the status f playing Rangers is a big game but so was Cowdenbeath last week and so was the game before that, Livingston so they are all big games now. That’s the way we are loking at it and that’s the way we will keep looking at it until the end of the season.”

Despite some injury worries earlier in the week, Stubbs has almost a full squad to choose from in then game which will be shown live on Sky TV.

He continued: “Jason (Cummings) and Dominique (Malonga) have trained today so as long as there is no reaction, we think that they will be OK for Sunday.

“The only other injury to report is Tomas Cerny who has had the mumps so we have had to keep him away from the group for the last nine days but he will be back in on Monday.

“Apart from that everybody is fine.

Yogamix is run by John Campbell and Amanda McKenna and they are currently taking the Edinburgh yoga scene by storm.

Who are you, and where did you come from?

I’m Amanda, born in Ireland, raised in Australia and have been a nomad for a long time until I found beautiful Edinburgh.

I’m John a yoga teacher and remedial therapist. I was born in Edinburgh but have lived all over the world since I was 11, from New Zealand to North Wales and various places in between until recently moving back home.

What do you think are your business strengths and weaknesses?

A – I have a degree in International Business and Marketing and although this has laid the foundations for my business knowledge I believe my best business strength is my ability to build relationships. Actually getting to know someone instead of just seeing them as your client not only breaks down barriers but also sets you up for ongoing business.

One of my bad weaknesses is I don’t switch off. As my partner and I run our own business I always have my phone or iPad near me. It can leave you pretty exhausted.    

What was the defining moment on your career path that has got you where you are now?

A – Handing in my notice at an investment firm in London. I said I would never be stuck behind a desk, swimming in paper work and watching the days slip by, in meaningless work that I had no passion for. It was time to do what I love most – yoga and travelling.

J – There have been two defining moments to get me where I am now. The first moment was the realisation I didn’t want to work in an office environment. 10 months of working in an office, of which during the last three I didn’t have a day to myself I decided to do something that was more than just a way to earn money.

My second defining moment came when I was working in a big boxing gym in Aberdeen as a trainer. I was shocked to find the discomfort my clients went through in everyday life including while exercising and they were ok with it. I took my background in exercise, anatomy and physiology to rebalance the body through corrective exercise and found this unrefined approach had great results for my clients. This led in further study of Remedial Therapy, Yoga and Pilates to help the body maintain balance and fight the strains of modern life and help prevent injury.

How do you spend your spare time?

A – Going on mini adventures, hiking, skiing, cycling, going to gigs, having lots of dinner parties and making raw vegan treats…so more eating!

J – I love to cook but if I’m being honest I prefer eating.  Doing whatever I can outdoors mainly hiking, running, cycling and skiing. Looking forward to the weather getting a bit warmer to get the surfboard out! I love practising yoga and other body weight exercises to constantly progress my personal practice and keep me functional to enjoy life and keep my clients’ practice fresh.

Day adventure – hiking up our first Munro together. Ben Lomond (974m) #adventure #scotland #benlomond #travel #mybootsstillsuck

A photo posted by Yoga Mix (@yogamixuk) on Feb 19, 2015 at 1:55am PST

Do you think you achieve a good work/life balance?

A – Yes. I’ve made the decision that life means more to me then work so I chose a job that I thoroughly enjoy and on most days I wouldn’t say its work as I love doing it. For instance recently I was really lucky to be able to teach yoga in the morning, go to Glenshee Ski Centre and let loose skiing for half the day and then come back to Edinburgh and teach more yoga.   

J – I definitely do.  The work I do doesn’t feel like work as I’m constantly learning from my clients, my own practise and studying.  I do occasionally find myself at midnight still answering emails or going to see a client or teach a class at the crack of dawn, but it is all in balance. I try to make the most of a good day even managing to get up to Glenshee Ski Centre for 2 or 3 hours of skiing between morning and evening classes.

What makes Edinburgh the best location for you to live and/or work?

A – The sea and mountains are on your doorstep for countless adventures, add in the many festivals this city delights us with and a community that is open to try new things including yoga, you get an amazing location to live and work.   

J – I love the topography, it allows me to enjoy so many outdoor activities. But at the end of the day Edinburgh is my home, my parents only live a 10 minute walk away.       

What is your special area of Edinburgh, or special place in Edinburgh and why?

A – I love Inverleith Park on a summer’s day. Everyone is out having a BBQ, the pipe band is usually practicing and the view to the castle is beautiful. Good friends, music and food with a view is always special.   

J – I love the ruggedness of Arthur’s Seat and the Crags.  Best enjoyed on a clear night looking out over the bright lights of Edinburgh and across the Forth.

Who are your business heroes?

A – Two businessmen top my list of business heroes. Richard Branson founder of Virgin Group and Yvon Chouinard founder and owner of Patagonia Inc. We all know who Richard Branson is and what he does but not as many know Yvon Chouinard.

Yvon is a legendary climber, surfer, entrepreneur, environmentalist and philanthropist. He knows how to combine work, play and social duties and be even more successful as a result. 

Which networking groups in Edinburgh have you found particularly useful?

J – Lululemon and the other yoga teachers in and around Edinburgh.

What are your business goals for the next year?

A – As I‘m still relatively new to this city and our business Yoga Mix is less than a year old in Edinburgh, my business goals for the next year are to continue growing our client base, run successful yoga retreats and really getting our name out there in the Edinburgh community.

We have been extremely fortunate to be a part of some amazing projects last year including the Morning Gloryville Rave at Edinburgh Fringe, Red Bull Foxhunt with Rachel Atherton and teaching classes for the community at lululemon.

I want to continue growing and making yoga accessible to anyone that is willing to have a go and now that Canning Street Yoga has opened I feel we have a great venue to pursue those goals. 

J – To establish a Yoga Mix client base and community in Edinburgh, run retreats and make Canning Street Yoga a yoga and social hub.

Describe your typical day for us.

A – There is no typical day. But if I had to describe what a day might look like it would usually include at least me teaching two yoga classes, spending a fair amount of time doing administration work which can include marketing, client relations or even building websites. I would try and get my own yoga practice in everyday and typically go out for a hike or cycle to get the blood pumping.  

J – I would say I don’t have a typical day, but roughly I have 2 scheduled yoga classes a day and up to 5 treatments which can be spread throughout the day.  Between class and treatment I usually work on sequencing/self-practice and write up clients notes.  I do add to the blog on occasion but Amanda is responsible for most of the great content.    

Best job advice you ever received?

A – “It is better to have a short life that is full of what you like doing, than a long life spent in a miserable way.” Alan Watts

J – A brief summary of Alan Watts as shown in the video below – Do something that you can be passionate about and engage with fully, and if you are good enough at your chosen vocation you will have a market and a living.

Your plan of attack for the next 12 months?

A – Teach, teach, teach!

If you would like to find out more about starting yoga then contact Yogamix here.

Instameets Edinburgh & Glasgow Dates: 21 & 22 March 2015 The weekend of 21/22 March is @Instagram’s WorldWide Instameet weekend for #WWIM11 so @igersedinburgh and @igersscotland have teamed up to bring you two pretty exciting events over the weekend, in both Edinburgh and Glasgow. On 21 March @igersedinburgh will be hosting an #empty meet at The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One (Modern One) in Edinburgh for #WWIM11_Edinburgh.  This will take place on the Saturday evening between 6-8pm and we will have full access to the gallery spaces after closing time with a guided tour of the Lichtenstein exhibition by the curators. Places for this will be limited on a first come first served basis, so make sure you save the date and we will provide details for how you can sign up for a place nearer the time.  Given the location of Modern One we will likely arrange a walk along the Water of Leith before the event and drinks/dinner somewhere close by afterwards – so there will be plenty of options for people to meet up on the day. On 22 March @igersscotland will be touring Glasgow on the #WWIM11_Glasgow meet! Starting at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery at 11am and making our way to where the river Kelvin meets the river Clyde to spend some time at the Riverside Museum from there it’s a walk along the Clyde stopping at some of the iconic Glasgow Landmarks ending up in the city centre. A trip up the Lighthouse for the spectacular view, along to GoMA to visit the Duke from there it’s through the Merchant City to The Necropolis where we will finish up with some food/drink at Drygate Brewery.  People are more than welcome to join us at any point along the route and we will provide more details soon. We think this will be an excellent weekend of events and photo opportunities so we really look forward to seeing you there! #WWIM11_Edinburgh #WWIM11_Glasgow #igersedinburgh #igersscotland #InstaMeet #ModernOne

A photo posted by Instagramers Edinburgh (@igersedinburgh) on Mar 8, 2015 at 12:19pm PDT

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The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to Jemma who is one of the Instagram fanatics behind the #Empty Instameet at the Modern Art Gallery tomorrow evening. She is clearly excited about the prospect!

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We hope to bring you some of the lovely photos they expect to take at the beginning of next week.

Clean sweep for U20’s at home with win over Irish

Scotland’s U20’s won in Galashiels on Friday night to secure third place in the BBS U20 Six Nations Championship – their highest ever.

An early scrum won the Scots territory which they followed up with a lineout win and subsequent penalty. George Horne missed the kick, but from the restart, Scotland were straight back, knocking on the door of Ireland’s defence. Another lineout and rolling maul saw the pack over the line and Neil Irvine-Hess touched down at the back for the opening score with less than two minutes on the clock. Horne then scored with the kick to put the home side 7-0 ahead.

Scotland then weathered a period of Irish pressure with attempts down either wing, Stephen Fitzgerald nearly getting through, but No 10, Rory Hutchinson stopped the Irishman before any real damage could be done.

Then Scotland scored their second try of the night. Another man to watch, Alec Coombes, broke around the outside of the Irish defence and made it up to the 22, only being finally stopped by Ireland’s No 10, Ross Byrne. Ally Miller followed up and collected the ball for Scotland, but he was heaved into touch before he could get going. Winning the lineout, Scotland’s pack resorted to their powerful maul set up and marched Ireland back. They were stopped short, but a couple of recycles saw, eventual Man-of-the-Match, Lewis Carmichael touching down for the second try. This time Horne missed the kick – it wasn’t to be his night – but 18 minutes in Scotland were 12-0 ahead and were probably the better side of the two.

Ireland then seemed to pull themselves together and put in a period of fine play, culminating with a 25^th minute try to put them on the scoreboard with a successful penalty from Byrne.

With the score at 10-3, it was still looking good for Scotland and a couple of line breaks had the defence scrambling, but it was the visitors who scored next. With their backs starting look dangerous a passing move set up near half way by Byrne saw the ball quickly over to the winger, Fitzgerald and he galloped in from a long way out to score under the posts. Byrne knocked the kick over to take Ireland up to within a single score at 12-10.

Once again Scotland returned on the offensive and saw out the half where they had started, deep in the Irish 22.

The second half was an altogether different affair. Whatever it is that some coaches instil in their teams at half time must have been doled out in bucket loads by the Irish coaches as it was a much ‘better’ side that took to the field in the second half. They spent large periods of the early half less than 10 metres from the Scotland line and it was only a knock on and a fine last minute tackle by Zander Farguson that prevented them adding to their tally. But, as they tired, Scotland gradually came back into the game and, with 10 minutes to go, it looked as if they would indeed hold onto their two-point lead

However, that wasn’t to be the case, because inside the final ten, Scotland were up in the Irish 22 and setting up for a lineout. Once again they won the ball and set up their dreaded rolling maul. With Carmichael in charge of the ball, they, once again, steamrollered Ireland back over their line to allow Carmichael to score his second try. Horne missed another kick, but at 17-10 with six minutes left, it was on the cards for another Scottish win.

And that’s how it ended. Ireland had a go, but didn’t look like scoring so Scotland held onto their lead as the referee blew up for full time, giving them a fine win over a decent Irish side and securing third – on points scored difference – in the table between France and Wales.

With the Junior World Cup on the horizon in June, Scotland are looking in a fine position to do well. Their scrum is particularly strong – they pushed Ireland all over the park – and things are looking up in the back division as well. Half the squad are also young enough to carry on next season so it could be a couple of good years for the young Scots, something that’s not been on the cards for a long time.

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

Davy Macdonald: Gothic Edinburgh – a figurative narrative set against some of Edinburgh’s most renowned Gothic architecture. The collection features historic landmarks and revered monuments such as Holyrood Abbey, St Giles’ Cathedral, the Old Town closes and some stunning Gothic Revival architecture. Davy Macdonald is a figurative artist based in Edinburgh. 10am-6pm Dundas Street Gallery, 6 Dundas Street. Ends 28th March 2015.

Balerno Branch Railway Weekend: Colinton Local History Society, Colinton Village Events and The Water of Leith Conservation Trust host a model railway exhibition of Colinton Station and the surrounding area (including the adjacent Scott’s Porage Oats mill), created by enthusiast Alistair Dickson, along with other displays of maps and photographs of the Balerno Branch Line. During the heyday of the Caledonian Railway’s Balerno Branch up to 21 passenger trains ran daily, carrying over 250,000 passengers a year. The line closed in 1943. Alistair will give a talk about the creation of the model at 2pm today and again at 11.30am on Sunday, and there will be a guided Railway Ramble at 1pm on Sunday (see Sunday’s What’s On for details). 10am-4pm, Water of Leith Conservation Trust Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road. Also open at same times on Sunday 22nd March. The exhibition is free to visit, but donations would be much appreciated.

Metaphrog Comic Workshop: Metaphrog are John Chalmers and Sandra Marrs, creators of the multiple-award nominated and acclaimed Louis graphic novels. Metaphrog’s workshops are fun and interactive, showing the process involved in making graphic novels and revealing some of the secrets of character design and story development. There will also be a chance to create your own comic book character. For P7-S3 age group. 2.30-3.30pm, George Washington Browne Room , Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free but booking is required and can be made via eventbrite here.

Light Lab: join artist Kenny Bean in a hands-on workshop to explore light through building a simple portable camera obscura. (Materials required are included in the price). For all ages. 11am-4pm (drop-in – please note the workshop will be closed for lunch 1-2pm), Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row. £3 per person, no booking required.

Morningside Farmers’ Market: buy fresh food from local makers and reduce food miles too. Refreshments available throughout the market and from The Merlin. 9.30-3.30pm, The Merlin, 168 Morningside Road.

Linlithgow Green Film Festival: inspiring films and documentaries highlighting issues on the environment, climate change and sustainability. Today: The Economics of Happiness, a film describing a world moving simultaneously in two opposing directions. As governments and big business continue to press for ‘growth’ in the form of increased global trade, we see an increase in climate chaos, senseless war, fundamentalism, financial volatility, income inequality and the consolidation of corporate power. At the same time, people around the world are resisting these policies, demanding a re-regulation of trade and finance, and coming together to build more human-scale, ecological economies based on a new paradigm – an ‘economics of localisation’. 7pm, Adam Room, Cross House, Linlithgow. Admission by suggested donation of £5. Soft drinks and locally made cakes will be available. Transition Linlithgow is a community-led charity that aims to make Linlithgow a more caring, sharing and resilient place to live, with a focus on finding a beneficial pathway towards a low-carbon future.

St Brides Family Cinema: see your favourite films for free! Juice and choc ices available during the interval for 50p each. Please note: all children aged under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This week: Ice Age 2: The Meltdown (U). 10.30am-12.30pm (includes interval), St Brides Centre, Orwell Terrace, Dalry.

Gallery Ten: new exhibitions. Prints by Cat Outram, paintings by Kirstie Cohen, jewellery by Becky Crow and ceramics by Emma Williams. 10.30am-5.30pm today then Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sundays & Mondays), Gallery Ten, 10 Stafford Street. Ends 2nd May 2015.

Samba into Spring! come and join the Edinburgh Samba School for a ‘funkin’ fundraising event’ in aid of Nordoff-Robbins, a charity providing music therapy for vulnerable children, young people and adults. A variety of Brazilian beats and musical treats, plus a chance to win prizes, including a free place on the Samba School’s next beginners’ course. 7.30-10.30pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £5 and can be booked via eventbrite here (booking fee applies).

Watching: Plants and Sleep. What makes you sleepy? Come and find out about the historical uses of plants to aid sleep, investigate the mysterious Venice Mallow or ‘Goodnight at noon’, learn why some violets were known as ‘heart’s-ease’ and discover why your doctor might have told you to sniff melons but to steer clear of garlic late at night! 1-4pm, Palm House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row.

Harp Music Morning: Janet Annand will play in aid of Marie Curie Hospice Great Daffodil Appeal. 10.30am-12 noon, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

The Green Door: rock ‘n’ roll, rhythm ‘n’ blues, doo wop, surf, soul and garage – with free cake!. 10.30pm-3am, Studio 24, 24-26 Calton Road. £5/£4 (£2 before 11pm).

Ross MacKenzie: The Nowhere Emporium. The Scottish Children’s Book Award winner signs copies of his new book. When the mysterious Nowhere Emporium arrives in Glasgow, orphan Daniel Holmes stumbles upon it quite by accident. Before long ‘the shop from nowhere’ – and its owner Mr Silver – draw Daniel into a breathtaking world of magic and enchantment. ‘Ross MacKenzie unleashes a riot of imagination, colour and fantasy in this astonishing adventure’. 2-4pm (drop-in), Children’s Department, Blackwell’s, South Bridge.

Mighty Mexican Night: Mexican street food, Luchador masks, music, tequilas, margaritas and locally brewed beer. 6-10pm, The Skylark, 243 Portobello High Street. To reserve a table call 0131 629 3037.

Sofi’s Lego Party: Lego building, cupcakes, competitions and prizes! ‘Release your inner child’. 7.30pm, Sofi’s Bar, Henderson Street.

Watching: a new opera for children about sleep. Ada can’t sleep – will the two apothecaries Dewberry and Frostbait have the remedy for her sleeplessness? A promenade performance through the gardens and glasshouses of the Royal Botanic Garden, performed by Music in the Community at Edinburgh College of Art, and children from Leith Walk Primary School. Please note that this is event is partially outdoors: dress warmly. 7pm (entry from 6.45pm), North Gate, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Place. Tickets cost £10/£5 and must be purchased in advance only from Brown Paper Tickets here (transaction fee applies). Funded by The Wellcome Trust.

Spring Celebration: Communities for Conservation – Be the Change! ELREC (Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council’s) special family-friendly event is centered on the environment, food growing and energy efficiency and aims to bring diverse communities together. The special guest will be renowned TED Talks speaker John-Paul Flintoff, who will conduct an inspirational workshop on how to change the world we live in. (TED is a non-profit organisation dedicated to spreading ideas on the internet via short, powerful talks). Other activities include film screening, Zumba class, raffle, make your own natural skin care product, children’s activities, bouncy castle, face painting, live performances, cooking workshop, free refreshments, free organic lunch, and more. 1-5pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. All welcome! The first 150 places at this event are free, thereafter £5 per person (children under 12 years free); places are limited and booking is required via eventbrite here. The contributions of individuals, families and organisations from the Polish, South Asian, Chinese and African communities are especially appreciated.

The Gondoliers: let Portobello & Joppa Parish Church Drama Group take you away from the Scottish weather to sunny Italy with their production of the Gilbert & Sullivan favourite! 7.30pm, Church Hall, Portobello & Joppa Parish Church, 1 Brunstane Road North. Tickets cost £10/£5 and may be purchased by emailing office@portyjoppachurch.org.

Edinburgh University Chamber Choir Spring Concert: Pizzetti Messa di Requiem, Bach Der Geist hilft unsrer Schwachheit auf, Howells Take Him Earth, for Cherishing and Tallis Lamentations of Jeremiah I. 7.30pm, Canongate Kirk, 153 Canongate. Tickets cost £10/£5.

LGBT: T Time in Edinburgh. An informal monthly social gathering open to all transgender people and their supporters. Come along for tea/coffee and a chat in a relaxed environment. An optional event runs alongside each T Time involving a range of interests, information and activities. Please note: the first meeting of each quarter is family friendly. 1-4pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Dark Matters Gallery Discussion: curator David Faithfull will lead a discussion with artists Alastair Clark and Mike Inglis about their new commissions sited in the galleries at Edinburgh Printmakers. Dark Matters is a partnership project between Edinburgh Printmakers, the UK ATC and Edinburgh University, bringing together artists, astronomers and space engineers to work in collaboration to explore the subject of deep space. 2-3pm, Edinburgh Printmakers, Union Street. This event if free but ticketed: tickets may be obtained via eventbrite here.

Nelson Mandela memorial

Edinburgh Direct Aid

Easter appeal

Food Commission

Campervan King!

The council will confirm next week that the Director of Economic Development can proceed to talk to Henderson Real Estate who own the St James Centre about a new memorial to be incorporated into the new development there. The council already took the decision to put up some kind of memorial for Nelson Mandela who died in 2013, following a motion submitted by the Lord Provost.

The £850m demolition and redevelopment of Edinburgh St James is a threeway partnership among the council, the Scottish Government and the council. The idea is that there will be some kind of lasting memorial there to the anti-apartheid campaigner.

They have not yet decided what form the memorial will take, so watch this space. What they have discovered is information on 15 existing and proposed memorials to Mandela around the world. These include murals, benches and statues. Glasgow has Nelson Mandela Place

***

Making Aid Count In A Hostile World
On Monday 30 March 2015, at the Quaker Meeting Hall 7 Victoria Terrace EH1 2JL

ADMISSION FREE
Maggie Tookey of EDINBURGH DIRECT AID  has just spent 12 freezing nights in a storeroom on the Lebanon-Syria border to distribute essential aid to Syrian refugees enduring severe winter storms in a border town surrounded by militants and sealed off by army checkpoints.

In this vivid and compelling talk she describes her experiences and looks ahead to what now needs to be done.

***

The Newkirkgate Shopping Centre in Leith has teamed up with Edinburgh based charity, Children with Cancer and Leukaemia, Advice and Support for Parents (CCLASP), in an appeal to shoppers to help spread some Easter cheer this year.

Visitors to the centre are being asked to buy or donate an extra Easter egg, and leave them at a specially designed drop-off point at the community centre within the Newkirkgate.

The Easter eggs will be donated to CCLASP which was set up over 20 years ago to help support children with Cancer and Leukaemia and their families across Scotland.

Scott Darroch, centre manager for Newkirkgate Shopping Centre, said: “Each year many of us are lucky enough to receive lots of Easter eggs from our friends and loved ones and often many of these go to waste. This year, we are encouraging those throughout the city to either buy or donate an extra Easter egg and gift it to a superb local cause.

“CCLASP provides an outstanding support service for thousands of children and their families in Edinburgh each year and we would love to help put a smile on the faces of some of these children this Easter.”

***

The decision of the Food Commission to establish a network of local good food champions to encourage the sourcing and selling of locally produced, in-season food in their areas, has been welcomed by Food Secretary Richard Lochhead.

The Commission, who met for the first time in Edinburgh this week, also discussed the next steps to take in helping Scotland become a Good Food Nation and improving the country’s attitude to eating fresh and healthy produce.

Mr Lochhead said:

“I was delighted to welcome the members of the Scottish Food Commission to the inaugural meeting. It’s great to have the commission up and running and I am confident that the conversations had here this week will pave the way towards Scotland becoming a Good Food Nation.

“I have made it clear to the commission that my vision is for Scotland to become a nation where it is second nature to serve, sell and eat fresh, healthy and sustainable food – by 2025 I want people from every walk of life to take pride and pleasure in the food served day by day in Scotland, and there is no better time to begin that journey than now in the Year of Food and Drink.

“The Commission Members are vitally important in helping to make this happen as they will identify the changes that need to be made and champion their actions along the way.

“Our local network will be vitally important to the cause – it is essential to get people out there championing locally sourced products in their area and show people that you don’t need to go far to find exceptional quality produce; it’s right there on their doorstep.

“Scotland is fast becoming one of the world’s leading food and drink nations. We have come a long way in terms of reputation and success in a few short years but with the help of the Food Commission we can do even better. It’s my belief that an increase in Scottish food exports will attract more overseas visitors and the quality of the food we serve will become one of the key reasons to travel to Scotland.

“I want the food industry to become a thriving, well-known feature of local and national economies, with each part of Scotland rightly proud of its culinary heritage, past and present.”

***

An Edinburgh business is celebrating a record performance thanks to salesman, David Miller.

The campervan specialist from Volkswagen Van Centre Edinburgh set a personal best by delivering 40 Volkswagen California vehicles last year and is already well on the way to smashing this figure for 2015.

David’s strong performance has been echoed by figures released by The National Caravan Council who recently announced an 18 per cent¹ year on year increase in Motorhomes registration, which includes campervan sales, illustrating that more consumers are entering the leisure vehicles market.

David has worked for the John Clark Motor Group, who owns the Edinburgh business, for the past nine years but has been dedicated to the campervan sales division  since 2008.

During his time David has witnessed a growing trend for the Volkswagen California as more people want to take advantage of that spur-of-the-moment getaway.

He said: “The iconic Volkswagen Campervan has always had a big following but the California is something completely different. It sets new standards in comfort, performance and safety and is so much more practical for today’s lifestyle. It really does offer the home-from-home comforts, whether you are on your own or a family of six.”

So have you got one of these iconic vehicles? Will you share a photo with us? Get in touch! Send any photos to us at theedinburghreporter@gmail.com

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By Nicola Murray (Student-on-Placement at ECF, Abertay University)

So, what is the big deal about dietary fibre? Is it just to keep us regular? In a word, no – it does so much more!

Fibre is an important part of a healthy balanced diet and has many benefits for our overall health. It can improve not only our digestive health – think constipation, bowel cancer or diverticular disease – but can help reduce the risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes and some others cancers too. High fibre foods keep us feeling fuller for longer by slowing down digestion. This can help us maintain a healthy weight as we are less likely to reach for a high sugar mid-morning snack.

In the UK, the average person consumes around 14g of fibre per day which is much lower than the recommend 18g. Fibre is a complex carbohydrate found only in plant foods. Foods such as meat, fish, and dairy don’t contain any at all. Simple carbohydrates (like sugars) are broken down to provide fuel but dietary fibre has other important roles in the body. While we gain few nutrients or energy from fibre its passage through our digestive system helps remove potentially harmful waste from the body. Moreover, some types of fibre are actually fermented in the lower intestine, producing some important nutrients like vitamin K (which helps our blood clot), B12 (for processing energy) and fatty acids (which are great for our hearts).

There are two different type of fibre: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre – found in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans and pulses – can be digested by our bodies as it is dissolved in water and forms a gel in the gut. It is then passed through the GI tract, absorbing water and slowing down our digestion. What this does is help keep stool soft – making it easier to pass – which can prevent or treat constipation.

Insoluble fibre – found in whole grains, vegetables, high fibre cereals, nuts and seeds – cannot be digested by the body. It passes through our gut without being broken down and helps other foods move through our digestive system more easily. This keeps our bowels healthy and helps prevent digestive problems. If suffering from diarrhoea we should limit the amount of soluble fibre we are consuming and increase the insoluble fibres. On the other hand, if suffering from constipation we should increase soluble fibre (e.g. fruit and veg) and reduce the insoluble type.

Box-out – health benefits of fibre
• Keeps us regular
• Helps reduce cholesterol
• Lowers risk of heart disease, strokes and diabetes
• Assists in removing waste from the body
• May help lower blood pressure
• Keeps us fuller for longer, helping us to maintain a healthy weight
• Produces vitamins K and B12, plus healthy fatty acids in the colon
• Provides food for healthy gut bacteria
• Helps relieve diarrhoea, constipation and haemorrhoids

To increase the amount of fibre in our diets try to incorporate fibre into every meal – aim for 2 portions.

Top tips for increasing your fibre
• Swap white bread, rice and pasta for tastier wholemeal alternatives
• Eat more oat-based foods such as no-added-sugar porridge, muesli or oatcakes
• Try to incorporate fibre into every meal – aim for 2 portions per meal
• Go for whole fruit rather than fruit juice
• Go for more highly nutritious and high fibre lentils, beans and other pulses
• Try going ‘veggie’ a few days a week
• Increase your fibre intake fibre slowly to reduce the risk of bloating and stomach cramps
• Drink plenty of water to help the passage of the fibre in the gut

Submitted by Nicola Murray (Abertay University)

Edinburgh-based Aquamarine Power has today published operational information gathered during months of testing their Oyster 800 wave machine at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney.

The academic analysis examines data generated by the Oyster 800 machine last year – which includes operating during major storms with waves reaching eight metres – and verifies that the Oyster flap generates power as predicted in wave tank and numerical tests.

The initial results have been published in a blog post by the company’s Chief Technical Officer Dr Paddy O’Kane and can be accessed here.

Commenting on the analysis, Aquamarine Power Chief Executive Officer John Malcom said:

“These exceptional results have been gathered in more than 750 distinct sea states encompassing 94% of Oyster’s power matrix and verify, for the first time, that predictions of the energy Oyster can generate in any given sea state are accurate – and in the case of large sea states is actually greater than our original calculations.

“Very few, if any, other wave energy technologies have been able to verify as much data across as wide a range of sea states, including operations through major storms.

“In simple terms, Oyster does exactly what it says on the tin.

“As a business this gives us confidence in Oyster near shore technology, and confirms that future iterations of Oyster technology can be developed at laboratory and test tank scale – secure in the knowledge that subsequent full-scale machines will perform as predicted.

“Our business plan is to continue to develop the next-generation Oyster at laboratory scale and focus on areas of the technology which are less reliable, in particular the power take off system.

“To achieve this we are working with Bosch Rexroth, Carnegie Wave Energy and others to develop WavePOD – a  sealed sub-sea generating unit which can be used by a range of wave energy technologies, including of course future iterations of Oyster.

“We have already built and are operating a tenth-scale WavePOD prototype at the world-leading Institute for Fluid Power Drives and Controls (IFAS) at RWTH Aachen University, Germany, and we will shortly be publishing our preliminary results.”

The WavePOD consortium already includes project founders Aquamarine Power and Bosch Rexroth, along with Carnegie Wave Energy UK and wave technology developers Albatern and M4 WavePower. It also includes Irish utility ESB, the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, IFAS and University College Dublin’s Energy Research Centre.

“We are keen to involve as many industry players as we can in WavePOD, and the consortium is open to all,“ Malcolm concludes.

Councillor Ricky Henderson, the Health Social Care and Housing Convener on the City of Edinburgh Council, is taking up a challenge to sleep out tonight outside the City Chambers with the Bethany Trust as part of their Big Sleep out. This event means people have to leave the warmth and comfort of their home for one night and sleep under the stars. The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to Councillor Henderson who was still at work on Friday afternoon to find out more about his night ahead:

//

Last year 350 participants raised an incredible £56,000 to support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

Cllr Henderson has already raised about £1,000 but you can support him by clicking here 

Ancient peoples believed that a solar eclipse was a sign from the gods. Were they displeased with events on Earth ? Were they were warning us to change our ways ? We now know it’s nothing to do with us……or is it ? On the one hand, it’s just an event of nature that comes around about four times a year, though the last time it was visible in Britain was in 1999 and the next time will be 2026. One the other hand, it’s a reminder that we rather rely on the Sun. Even its slow blink on Friday morning was a slightly chilling experience.

It’s better to be in a crowd when the gods are angry. So I went down to the Scottish Parliament where there was some sort of official public viewing of the event organised by the Astronomy Society and the parliament’s “solar eclipse staff” (to quote from their identity badges). I found five or six hundred people, all with their faces lifted towards the south-eastern sky, watching for the sun to appear over Arthur’s Seat. And it duly turned up, on time, and without much cloud cover.

Then the Moon came stealing across its face, reducing the Sun to a crescent which tipped one way and then the other, turning from yellow to red and back to yellow. Professional sky-watchers had their telescope reflectors, amateurs had their cards or box cameras, the rest of us shared plastic viewing glasses or only looked when the occasional cloud drifted across the show. The Earth did not go dark, just a little duskish and cooler. But there was magic in the air, the crowd murmured, even gasped from time to time. It was a demonstration of nature’s “shock and awe”, and we all knew it.

But even the movement of the stars was not allowed to overshadow our general election campaign, now into its last 40-odd days. On Wednesday the Chancellor George Osborne sought to turn the election into a “historic” event with a budget speech which recalled the glories of the English victory over “an ill-judged alliance between the champion of a united Europe and a renegade force of Scottish nationalists” at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. He’s to spend a million pounds of our tax-money on the 600th anniversary celebrations on St Crispin’s Day later this year. I wonder if the SNP will agree to this if they are the king-makers after May 7th.

On the other hand the Chancellor came to the rescue of Scotland with a £1.3 billion package of measures to help the North Sea oil industry. No one, it seems, had foreseen that the oil price would drop from over $100 a barrel to less than $50 in the last few months, leaving the industry sinking beneath the waves. Nicola Sturgeon, at first minister’s question time, admitted that she, along with the UK Treasury and the Department of Energy, had got it wrong.

The Chancellor also handed Scotland £3 billion over the next 20 years for his Scottish version of the “powerhouses” of the north, the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness. He also poured out a 2 per cent cut in the duty on whisky. But as Ms Sturgeon pointed out, the Westminster austerity programme will continue whether the Tories or Labour win the election, unless the SNP can block them. Instead of a £30bn cut in public services, she wants a £180bn expansion, arguing that that will get the economy growing fast enough not to add to the national debt in the long run.

But if the oil and gas industry is getting a boost in the north, it’s still not clear what will happen in central Scotland. The Scottish government has put off a decision on fracking and “unconventional gas” until after the general election. But this week Ineos, the company which owns the Grangemouth refinery and most of the exploration licences, has launched a publicity campaign to win over local support for the controversial drilling and pumping operations. It’s offered to give 6 per cent of the revenues to the affected communities, worth an estimated £2.5bn over the next 15 years. Ineos argues that fracked gas releases less carbon than conventional gas but it’s still not clear to me how this fits in with the government’s plan to reduce Scotland’s carbon footprint. In fact the footprint is already starting to grow again, at over 5 per cent a year, after a decade in decline.

Global warming isn’t all bad news of course. Huge tuna fish are apparently being attracted to the warmer seas off the Hebrides. Captain Angus Campbell has appeared on American TV catching a 500lb monster. This week he announced he is to collaborate with the University of the Highlands and Marine Scotland to track the movement of these mighty creatures more usually found in the Pacific Ocean. The arrival of the bluefin tuna is also welcome evidence that herring and mackerel stocks are beginning to recover after years of over-fishing.

On Tuesday night I happened to be cycling through the Grassmarket in Edinburgh when I became a little confused. There were crowds of young, slightly tipsy people about, all dressed in green with Guinness top hats on. Were they celebrating Celtic’s victory in the League Cup last weekend or were they rugby fans arriving early for the Scotland-Ireland game this weekend ? Then I remembered to was St Patrick’s Day.

I wonder what St Patrick would have made of the events of Friday morning. In his 5th century view of the world, would we be pagan sun-worshippers or Christian pilgrims looking for a sign from heaven that all will be well?

Or would he have grabbed a pair of those viewing glasses from a member the Scottish Parliament’s “solar eclipse staff”, looked though them briefly and said: “Begorrah”?

Police Scotland today renewed its commitment to eradicating the scourge of doorstep crime and bogus callers.

Victims of bogus callers and doorstep crime are often unaware the crime has been committed, feel so embarrassed they are unable to go to the police, and fear a loss of independence, while facing financial uncertainty in the future.

Operation Monarda drives home the message – “If In Doubt, Keep Them Out”.

If someone arrives to your home unexpectedly:

• ensure your windows and doors are secure
• make use of door chains and bars
• don’t allow anyone entry to your home unless you have verified their identity by telephone.

Operation Monarda brings together public, private and third sector organisations to help minimise risk and prevent harm to vulnerable and older people from criminals who commit doorstep crime. It operates as a preventative project, and encompasses engagement work with the general public, as well as enforcement work to target criminals.

Doorstep crime occurs across Scotland, in every policing division, with more than 1000 incidents recorded between 1 August 2014 and 13 February 2015. Approximately £400,000 was taken from victims in that time. 

Speaking at the national launch in Edinburgh, Chief Superintendent Mark Williams (Local Police Commander for Edinburgh) said: “This campaign is about raising awareness within communities of this despicable crime and offering simple but effective advice to the public on how to avoid falling victim to it.

“Doorstep crime can affect anyone but we know that the over 60’s are particularly vulnerable. Bogus callers and rogue traders can be extremely convincing in how they present themselves and win over the confidence of potential victims. Sadly, many people are convinced by their lies.

“We don’t recommend dealing with cold-callers for any form of property maintenance or repair to your home, so if you have any doubts, do not let them into your house.”

“If you are aware of any suspicious activity taking place at the home of a neighbour, friend or family member, then please contact us immediately.”

Councillor Stephen Hagan, Chair of Trading Standards Consumer Protection Task Group said: “Doorstep crime has been identified as a national priority for Scottish Trading Standards for the last couple of years and it has been again for 2015/16.  Trading Standards and the Police have a long history of working together to combat this issue and I warmly welcome the strong partnership ethos driving Operation Monarda this year.

“In some instances, entire life savings are wiped out to pay for often unnecessary work, however, the long term impact of doorstep crime can be much more than the financial loss; often impacting on the health and wellbeing of the victim.  We also can’t forget the knock on effect this crime can have on local business and the economy more widely.

“The message is simple, doorstep crime will not be tolerated in our communities and we all have a role to play in combating it and keeping those around us safe.  If you have any suspicions that you, your neighbours, or family and friends have been targeted by these criminals, report these to Police Scotland or your local trading standards service immediately.”

David Crawley from Crimestoppers said:“Crimestoppers is an independent charity which is committed to helping victims of crime, or those who live in fear of crime, to be able to report, or provide information about crime, anonymously.

As part of this commitment to helping all members of society, we are delighted to support this campaign which is focused on beating doorstep crime across Scotland. This type of crime often sees vulnerable and older people targeted, so if you have information regarding who is responsible, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”

A West Lothian man who poisoned a kitten by lacing tuna with antifreeze has been convicted following a Scottish SPCA investigation.
Charles Coulter, 76, of Harthill Road, Fauldhouse, was sentenced at Livingston Sheriff Court on Thursday.
At a previous appearance, Coulter pled guilty to causing a cat unnecessary suffering by leaving out tuna fish contaminated with antifreeze which contained the active ingredient ethylene glycol. He was ordered to pay £410 in compensation to the owner of the kitten he poisoned.
Commenting on the investigation and court case, an undercover inspector said, “Coulter’s neighbour became concerned when her seven month old cat named Sneaky began vomiting. She noted Sneaky smelled strongly of tuna fish and asked Coulter if he had put anything out to poison him, to which he replied that he had.
“Sneaky was immediately taken to a vets where he was found to have kidney damage. He was discharged from the vets and given medication but tragically died a month later.
“When we conducted a search of Coulter’s garden, we found two pigeon lofts and a shed. Tuna laced with blue liquid was seized and was later confirmed to contain ethylene glycol, an active ingredient in antifreeze which, if ingested by cats, often proves fatal.  We also discovered a large drum containing this substance.
“When we interviewed Coulter he fully admitted contaminating tuna fish with antifreeze and placing it in his garden to deter cats from annoying his pigeons.
“Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning include vomiting, lethargy and, in the latter stages, head-shaking and coma, which ultimately results in renal failure and death.
“The poisoning of animals, wild or domestic, is extremely serious and causes unimaginable suffering.
“Poisoning cases are very complex and we are pleased that as a result of our thorough investigation Coulter now has a criminal record for this cruel and deliberate act.
“Coulter has shown no remorse for his actions which resulted in a family losing their much loved pet and we hope this case will serve as a warning to others that the deliberate poisoning of cats is completely unacceptable.”

Photo by Scottish SPCA

The latest phase of Police Scotland’s efforts to prevent doorstep crime and target bogus callers was launched today.

Operation Monarda will raise awareness of a crime which impacts on many vulnerable members of the community and often leaves many victims too embarrassed to go to the police, fearing a loss of independence, and facing financial uncertainty in the future.

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The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Doorstep crime happens right across Scotland with more than 1000 incidents recorded between 1 August 2014 and 13 February 2015. Approximately £400,000 was taken from victims in that time.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams outlined Police Scotland’s approach to tackling doorstep crime and will be joined by representatives of a number of partner organisations including Crimestoppers Scotland, Trading Standards Scotland, Citizens Advice Scotland, Neighbourhood Watch, Age Scotland, and Care Scotland

Here’s your Friday cue to go awwww….

Edinburgh Zoo has announced the birth of three baby meerkat pups this morning and here they are.

The lively bunch have joined the troop of meerkats at Meerkat Plaza and have started to venture outside the safety of the burrow and are slowly learning the ropes.

Andrew Laing, Carnivore Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said:

“The meerkats are always a favourite with our visitors, so it’s wonderful to see some new additions to the group. At only four weeks old the pups are settling in well and their individual personalities are starting to show.

“Mum Queen and dad Ace are doing really well and are getting plenty of help from other members of the group to raise the pups as meerkats are actually cooperative breeders, which means that all adults within the group will help to care for the young.

“Meerkats have a gestation period of around 11 weeks, so we didn’t have long to wait for them to arrive, but for the first three weeks of life they stay in the burrow being looked after by the adults. At around four weeks old they will start to explore outside of the den. It’s good to see them out and about learning how to catch their own food.”

Meerkats are the most well-known member of the mongoose family. They inhabit dry, open areas with short grass and sparse woody scrub mainly in southern Africa.

In April 2014 Edinburgh Zoo unveiled its new meerkat enclosure, Meerkat Plaza, with the help of legendary Edinburgh author Alexander McCall Smith. The dynamic new enclosure is located at the entrance to the Zoo and features sanded areas for digging, large rock features, caves, heat pads and a meerkat house. Visitors can come face to face with the charismatic creatures with 20 metres of glass panelling running along the front.

As part of the development, the front entrance also includes a large welcome plaza, with ‘where to go’ signage to allow visitors to orientate themselves before starting their day at the Zoo. Four large wooden meerkat benches featuring hand-crafted meerkat carvings, created by a local chainsaw artist Iain Chalmers take pride of place in the middle of the plaza.

We were watching for the eclipse this morning and got a wee bit lucky….

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The Edinburgh Reporter Partial Solar Eclipse 2015 from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

Do you have any photos?

Chief Officer Alasdair Hay has issued a statement apologising unreservedly on behalf of the Scottish Fire and Rescue  Service for any failing which contributed to the tragic death of Edinburgh Firefighter Ewan Williamson who died whilst attending a fire within the Balmoral Bar in Dalry Road on 12 July 2009.

The statement reads: “Our thoughts, first and foremost, are with the family, friends and colleagues of Ewan Williamson. I appreciate it has been a very difficult time for everyone involved whilst the investigation reached its conclusion in relation to the incident which resulted in his tragic death.

“ Our Firefighters are committed to providing a first class emergency fire and rescue service to the people of Scotland and working in dangerous and dynamically hazardous environments is an inherent part of their job as they deliver that commitment to serve their communities. Tragically the dangers faced by our Firefighters on that day resulted in the loss of Ewan’s life, and I apologise unreservedly on behalf of the Service for any failing which contributed to Ewan’s tragic loss.

“Ewan was a very popular and respected Firefighter who died a hero in the line of duty at an incident where 16 people were rescued. His professionalism and sacrifice will always be remembered.

“I will now take time to consider the judge’s comments and ensure that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, through its safer firefighter programme, is addressing the issues raised throughout this investigation and that all lessons are learned to improve the safety of our Firefighters.”

Believe me, my young friend’ said the Water Rat solemnly…..’there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats’ (Kenneth Grahame The Wind in the Willows).

It’s 11am on a Wednesday and we are gliding past banks of daffodils and snowdrops. A spaniel trots past; a little boy and his Mum wave. How lovely to be out of the city on this, one of the first sunny mornings for a while, far away from all the traffic, road works and general hubbub. Except we’re not far away – in fact we’re not even outside the ring road; we are cruising past Harrison Park on the Lochrin Belle, a beautifully fitted widebeam canal boat, as she makes her way towards Slateford.

The Lochrin Belle belongs to Re-Union Boats, a social enterprise set up in 2004 when its founders realised that access to the Union Canal was largely limited to an affluent minority. Anyone could walk along the towpath and admire the then newly-opened Falkirk Wheel, but few could afford to buy their own boat and enjoy the pleasures of life on the water.

Re-Union wanted to change that, to give as many people as possible a chance to share in this very special experience. Funding was obtained, a pilot boat was found, volunteers were sought – and the project soon became so successful that a better boat was needed. In 2008, with the help of the the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Lochrin Belle was bought as an empty hull. Today it is a state-of-the-art resource used for everything from training to hen parties; it can accommodate up to 35 people and is fully wheelchair-accessible.

It took the volunteers, working under the supervision of a professional boat-builder, six months to complete all the cleaning, plumbing and electrics needed to make the Lochrin Belle ‘canal worthy’; once the boat was on the water Re-Union began to train volunteers to act as crew and maintenance staff. People like working on the canal so much that many volunteers have been with Re-Union for years; skipper John is one of them.  As Re-Union Manager Pat says ‘no-one ever wants to leave’.

Retired teacher Sheila is one of several volunteers who have gained their RYA Crew and Helmsman qualifications with Re-Union; like most people on board she is prepared to turn her hand to most things – including the washing-up – and enjoys just being on the canal and meeting so many new people. Another great aspect of volunteering with Re-Union, she says, is its flexibility; each month a timetable is circulated and she can sign up to work according to her availability. Training is ongoing and sessions take place every week, but there is no obligation to attend every time. Volunteers, says Pat, are pivotal to Re-Union’s success, ‘We couldn’t do it without them; they’re a vital part of the organisation’.

The Lochrin Belle hosts many service groups throughout the week; the Royal Edinburgh Hospital has a regular booking, as does the Sorted Project, a charity working with people in recovery; there are Waterways Trust educational trips and even a floating yoga club. Many connections are made through referrals from other agencies, but any group can approach Re-Union with their own proposals. Re-Union also runs a unique 12-week Employability Course for working-age adults on benefits; all sorts of transferable skills are taught, from boating itself to first aid and catering. Being on the water has been proven to be therapeutic, and learning boating skills is a huge boost to self-confidence – and a potential route back into paid work. A new project starting soon will focus on health and wellbeing for referred clients, with walks along the towpath to source plants for food and natural remedies. Community Development Worker Jenny White is looking forward to launching this venture in April.

Although the initial project relied solely on outside funding, Re-Union decided to become an income-generating social enterprise so that it could retain more control over its outcomes and concentrate on its main aims – working with communities and getting as many folk as possible on the water and working with boats. It now achieves this to the tune of 5-6,000 people every year, and it has lots of plans to do more. Funding is of course still needed for specific posts and projects, and the results of various applications are currently awaited.

Business Development Manager Stuart Pownall has been with Re-Union for a year now, having joined from the corporate sector. His children think his job is so exciting that they want to come to work with him (they may have to wait a little bit as they are both under 4…). One of Stuart’s remits is to increase income from ticketed events and boat hire, and he’s certainly getting on with that – from tea and cake afternoons to whisky tastings, the Lochrin Belle offers outings to suit all tastes; last week it was a Mother’s Day Prosecco Cruise, and there are also ghost tours, Santa cruises and history trips – the next one is at 2pm on 6th April, when you can find out all about the history of the canal and the communities alongside it, all for just £10. In the festivals, Re-Union offers very popular ‘Escape from the City’ trips, giving weary visitors (and locals) the opportunity to spend the morning cruising down the canal before heading back into the cultural madhouse. There is no end of uses to which canal boats can be put – cafes, bookshops, art galleries – as Re-Union grows it might even be able to acquire more vessels and start new enterprises.

And if you’re looking for somewhere to hold your children’s party, your hen night or even your orchestra practice, the Lochrin Belle is available to hire at very reasonable rates. Children, says Stuart, spend at least the first hour of the cruise just being excited about being on the water – so that’s half of your party games sorted. Perhaps not surprisingly, the favourite theme is Pirates (Rosie & Jim are so yesterday….) You can bring your own food (the boat has a small kitchen area) or Re-Union can book it for you. Re-Union are very happy to consider any requests for events, so if you’ve got an idea, do get in touch with them.

When you hire the Lochrin Belle, she comes complete with a skipper to do the hard part for you – but what if you want to have a go at skippering yourself? Re-Union now has the Jaggy Thistle, a ‘cute and cosy’ 32 foot narrow boat, that you can take out for a day after a short induction session from one of the staff. Jaggy Thistle is based at Falkirk, can carry up to 8 passengers, is easy to drive and well equipped with everything you need.

Want more than just one day? Re-Union has now entered into partnership with a private investor to run the former Capercaillie Cruisers (now Falkirk Hire Boats) , a company based at Falkirk – you can take a boat through to Glasgow or up to Edinburgh, and you can now also admire the Kelpies at the Falkirk Helix; a percentage of the profits from the business will be ploughed back into Re-Union. There are about 16 locks between Falkirk itself and the Helix; Re-Union is trialling a pilot scheme to take these over from Scottish Canals, with volunteers providing the manpower. It’s another example of Re-Union’s increasing involvement in all aspects of the waterways.

Back in Edinburgh, Re-Union is just as active on land as it is on the water; Pat and her team organise the annual Canal Festival (it will be on 27th June this year), with everything from a raft race to free boat trips, canoeing tasters and market stalls. To keep the canal looking spic and span, Re-Union takes part in a canal clean-up once a month…and on a secret date in the not too distant future you’ll be able to see the results of Craft Bomb 2015; last year the Leamington Bridge was stunningly decorated with textiles of all descriptions.

And away from the towpath, Re-Union is still busy. Fountainbridge is changing rapidly just now; Edinburgh Printmakers have secured funding to transform the old North British Rubber Company HQ in Dundee Street into a hub of artistic endeavour and community spaces, the new Boroughmuir High School is shooting up opposite Fountainpark, STV Edinburgh is broadcasting from the canal basin and Fountainbridge Canalside Initiative is organising all kinds of ‘meantime activities’ on the old brewery site (eventually to be developed by EDI, the City Council’s development group).

The range of innovative temporary projects that this community organisation has come up with is impressive, from the Grove Community Gardens, The Forge (a metal, wood and glass infusion workshop space), a play area and a community pavilion to a Pianodrome – yes, a 100-seater open-air amphitheatre is to be constructed from 48 reclaimed pianos by local artist Tim Vincent-Smith and used as a venue in the festivals. The Initiative is not just about the temporary – it is also closely involved with the long-term development of the area, and Re-Union is a founding member of the group, whose purpose is to make Fountainbridge a vibrant and diverse community. Edinburgh Council, says Pat, is listening.

So if you’re looking for a venue for your party, business meeting or social event, if you’d like to spend a few hours (or more) cruising, are interested in volunteering, or are part of a group who might benefit from a regular slot on a boat – contact Re-Union; they’ll be delighted to help you with your ideas for messing about in boats.

STOP PRESS! Re-Union Boats will be featured on Channel 4’s Great Canal Journeys programme on 5th April 2015 – set your recorders!

Hibs’ Chief Executive Leeann Dempster  presented  a cheque to Dnipro Kids chairman Stevie Carr yesterday to support the outstanding work carried out by the charity founded by Hibernian fans during their trip to the Ukraine ten years ago.

Supporters who visited a local sanatorium and orphanage were so moved by what they saw that they immediately began to raise funds to help, and have been doing so ever since.

The charity now has people working on its behalf full-time in the Ukraine, and the club has agreed to sponsor one of the Ukrainian staff concerned. The presentation was made to Mr Carr when he was a match day guest of the club.

Ms Dempster told the club website: “The supporters involved in this have been magnificent ambassadors for the football club, doing great work and doing it quietly and without a lot of fuss. Stevie and the rest of the team deserve our thanks and support, and we are happy to do our bit.”

For more information about the work of the charity, and how it can be supported, visit their website at

www.dniprokids.com

Young Kato are the ultimate six-piece that notch up hard-hitting melodies incorporated into their list of convincing indie anthems. After coming together as a band in 2011, the band have worked their fingers to the bone to build up a repertoire through ferocious touring with the likes of You Me At Six and 5 Seconds of Summer to releasing a number of singles to showcase their jaunty and vigorous sound.

The band head out on a full-scale UK tour in April and May with Peasant’s King to promote their new album Don’t Wait ’til Tomorrow. The album has been written over the last three-and-a-half years since the band formed. Front man, Tommy Wright, said that the writing sessions for the album were varied.

“It differs for each song, I guess,” said Tommy. “It’s a case of ‘how long is a piece of string?’. All I can say is that it’s going to be fun, colourful, everything you would expect from Young Kato, with a little bit of dark too. It’s just six lads from Cheltenham, and hopefully 11 great songs.”

The first single off the new album is a song called ‘Children of the Stars’, a song written about the band’s youth, where the band alienated themselves during the writing of the song. “We went went away last September and booked a little shed in Devon,” said Tommy. “We slept there and wrote as many songs as we could – trapped ourselves away. We listened to a lot of Australian bands that had heavy synths and a desire for pop music. We wanted to emulate that. For the lyrics, we found it easy to sing about that youth, it was the kind of we wanted to achieve.”

But as the band start to prepare for the debut album release and tour, they only look back and reminisce at their beginnings and how they’ve come so far in the development of the band. “It’s weird, I’m staring at posters of us – it’s kinda funny,” said Tommy. “It has been brilliant. As people, we have matured and professionalism has stepped up. We think we’re ready for everything. It happens a band, though – a lot of trial and error, sometimes you getting things wrong but you learn. We’ve been given a great little ride and it will only get better.

For the 17-date tour, fans can expect a 100% full-on dynamic show. “We can expect ridiculous energy with everyone involved,” said Tommy. “We understand people buy tickets with their hard-earned money so we’re practising very hard, setting up some stuff along with some extra lighting.”

It’s a long, long way until the end of their tour in May when they perform an almost homecoming show in Gloucester, but Young Kato are already arranging plans for what takes place afterwards.

“It will be festival season after May. We’ve already announced Kendal Calling, which is the only one at the moment. Hopefully as many festival as possible, accepting everything we possibly can. It’s exciting, and hopefully we can venture into Europe too.”

Young Kato play Glasgow’s Garage (Attic Bar) on April 25 and Edinburgh’s Electric Circus on April 27. Tickets for both shows, including all other dates on their UK tour, can be purchased here.

Craft Afternoon: 3pm today and every Friday, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free: no booking required.

Christian Aid Fundraiser: Allan Little, for 25 years one of the BBC’s most distinguished foreign correspondents, will be in conversation with Eleanor Naughtie about his career. He has reported from the first Gulf War, the Yugoslavian conflict in the mid-1990s, the Rwanda genocide and the ebola breakout in Zaire, and has also interviewed many prominent world figures such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Mikhail Gorbachev and reported on the Scottish Independence Referendum. 7.30pm, Fairmilehead Parish Church, 1a Frogston Road West. Tickets cost £6 and are available from Bill Reid on 0131 466 3111, Bob Cunningham on 0131 447 4757 and Ruth Henderson 0131 449 6449. Refreshments will be available.

Raoul De Keyser: Paintings 1967-2012 – Curator’s Tour. Curator Paul Nesbitt and Exhibitions Officer Chloe Reith lead this in-depth discussion on the artist’s work and the current exhibition at Inverleith House. De Keyser’s paintings combine elements of both abstract expressionism and figuration inspired by the natural world. His unique approach pushed the boundaries of painting and explored its very nature through the lens of everyday experience. 2-3pm, Inverleith House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free and unticketed. The Raoul De Keyser exhibition continues at Inverleith House until 12th April 2015.

A Night for Malawi: a ceilidh with music and Scottish dancing to support Mulanje Mission Hospital. 7-9pm, Stockbridge Church, 7b Saxe Coburg Street. Tickets cost £10/£8 (including refreshments) and can be purchased from Stockbridge Church and St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street.

The Cinemaatic Short Film Showcase: taking cinema out of cinemas, Cinemaatic showcases cult, rare and classic Spanish feature films and powerful Latin American short film sessions. In this short film night there will be networking breaks for the enjoyment of the audience. ‘A nomad space for films and happenings!’ All films are subtitled in English. For over 18s only. 8-10pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets cost £5 and can be booked online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 560 1581.

Raglans: Irish/indie rock band whose self-titled debut album launched in March 2014, followed by a huge nationwide tour with Strypes, a coveted opening slot at Shepherd’s Bush Empire for the NME Awards Tour, and a headline tour across the UK and Ireland. With support The Moon Kids, a four-piece making music ‘full of neon-lit thrills and rollercoaster melodies’ who ‘blew the doors off at T In The Park and raised the roof at Wickerman‘. Over 18s only. 7pm, Main Room, Electric Circus, 36-39 Market Street. Tickets cost £6.50 plus transaction fee and can be booked here.

Doing Time, Doing Vipassana and Spiritual Wanderings in India: a double bill of short films followed by post-screening discussion and Q & A with Dr Abha Rodrigues (entrepreneur and author of 50 Mantras for the Empowered Woman), Rev Ali Newell (former Prison Chaplain and Associate Chaplain, University of Edinburgh) and Pt Vrajvahari Sharan, (Priest, Edinburgh Hindu Mandir). 6pm Screening Room G.04, 50 George Square, University of Edinburgh. An Edinburgh University Chaplaincy and Centre for South Asian Studies event.

Vegetarian Weekend at Joseph Pearce’s: all specials this weekend will be vegetarian (with the standard menu available for carnivores). 11am-9pm today, Saturday and Sunday, Joseph Pearce’s Bar, 23 Elm Row.

Jonny Fontaine: Funk Delicacies. Local DJ Jonny Murray plays a blend of rare funk, soul, disco and jazz, with the odd classic thrown in. 9pm, Victoria Bar, 265 Leith Walk.

Song, By Toad’s Bad Fun: Viking Moses, Kathryn Joseph + Beam. Viking Moses plays an intimate, piano-based set, supported by Kathryn Joseph (recent album Bones You Have Thrown Me and Blood I’ve Spilled) and Beam, who is best known for singing with King Creosote but has some gorgeous songs of her own. 7-10pm, Henry’s Cellar Bar, Morrison Street.  £5 on the door.

Rally & Broad: Dance While the Sky Crashes Down. Cabaret with RM Hubbert, Alan Bissett, Lynsey May, Elyssa Vulpes and the newly crowned Scottish Slam Champion Bram E Gieben, hosted by resident comperes Jenny Lindsay and Rachel McCrum. 7-10pm, The Bongo Club, 66 Cowgate. £5 on the door, subject to availability. The Bongo Club is a nightblub, live venue and all-round artistic hub owned by local arts charity Out of the Blue.

Lallie Wilson: a collection of bold, vibrant and exciting mixed media artworks and paintings. The first major painting exhibition by the Musselburgh-based artist portrays Lallie’s life story, from a young girl in wartime Britain to a woman who is still painting many years later. Opening tonight 6-7.30pm, then 10am-7pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 1-5pm Thursdays, North Edinburgh Arts, Pennywell Court.

Sivu: Finnish songer songwriter who has been described as ‘a one-man Wild Beasts’. Strictly over 18s only. 7pm, Sneaky Pete’s, 73 Cowgate. Tickets cost £9 and can be booked online here.

Like Leaves in Autumn: responses to the war poetry of Giuseppe Ungaretti. Launch of this new publication, which contains 21 poems by Giuseppe Ungaretti in a new English translation, 21 new poems by contemporary Scottish poets writing in response to Ungaretti, and 21 black and white art works from the Artists Rooms collection, acquired for the nation by NGS and Tate through the generosity of Anthony d’Offay. The publication is part of The Ungaretti Multi-Media War Project led by Carlo Pirozzi, which will be presented at Talbot Rice Gallery, University of Edinburgh. The Project brings together new publications, film, animation, music and sculpture in response to poems written in the Great War by Ungaretti, one of Europe’s greatest modernist poets. The evening will include keynote speeches from Edinburgh Makar Christine De Luca, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute Stefania Del Bravo and Carlo Francini (Florence UNESCO office), and will also feature musical performances, videos and readings by some of the poets featured in Like Leaves in Autumn. The project is intended to commemorate both the centenary of World War One and the fifty years since Edinburgh and Florence were first twinned. 6.45-9pm, Talbot Rice Gallery, Old College, South Bridge. This event if free but booking is required and can be made here.

Lunchtime Concert: Erland Hilden (organ) plays Johan Helmich Roman  Allegro con Spirito from Drottningholmsmusiken, Erland Hilden Toccata from Organ Symphony No 1, Sweelinck Variations on Mein junges leben hat ein end, JS Bach Fugue in E Minor BWV 548, Erland Hilden B-A-C-H mass for organ and Steigleder Toccata on Vater Unser (Tabulaturbuch 1627). 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Habitats for Happy Ageing: Is there such a thing as a habitat for happy ageing? How does where we live affect our mood? Why is it so important to get outdoors in later life? Come along to a free event on the UN International Day of Happiness to hear from experts in happiness and place, take a mood test, browse photos of people’s ‘happy places’, and see how Edinburgh has changed over time. This event will follow Erland Hilden’s organ concert (see above). Open to everyone with an interest in the links between place and health and wellbeing, but of particular interest to older people. Refreshments provided. 2.30-4pm, Reid Concert Hall, Bristo Square. Free but places are limited and booking is essential: call 0131 651 5834 or email OPENspace@ed.ac.uk.

Watching: a new opera for children about sleep. Ada can’t sleep – will the two apothecaries Dewberry and Frostbait have the remedy for her sleeplessness? A promenade performance through the gardens and glasshouses of the Royal Botanic Garden, performed by Music in the Community at Edinburgh College of Art, and children from Leith Walk Primary School. Please note that this is event is partially outdoors: dress warmly. 7pm (entry from 6.45pm), North Gate, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Place. Tickets cost £10/£5 and must be purchased in advance only from Brown Paper Tickets here (transaction fee applies). Also at same time on Saturday 21st March. Funded by The Wellcome Trust.

Freeze Frame Film Club: a monthly film night in Leith – ‘an informal evening of flickering images drawn from old favourites’. Tonight’s film is Ealing Studios classic Whisky Galore (PG). Free popcorn and good company, plus optional celluloid pre-film menu from the Drill Hall Arts Cafe, with dishes inspired by the films themselves. Doors open 6.30pm, film begins 8pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Tickets for the film only cost £2.50 (children £2) and can be purchased in advance from the cafe or on the door. Tickets for the 3 course meal prepared by special guest chef Anna Hamilton (www.alright-treacle.com) cost £15 and must be pre-booked – call the cafe on 0131 555 7100 or email stephanie.haigh@outoftheblue.org.uk. This is the last Freeze Frame night until September.

ECLIPSE (Moon draws Sun/Earth draws Moon): as the new moon eclipses the morning sun at 9.45am today, Northern Europe will be cast into darkness. In conjunction with this spectacular celestial event, artist David Faithfull and Dr Hermine Schnetler from the UK Astronomy Technology Centre have been commissioned by Edinburgh Printmakers to present ECLIPSE at Castle Mill Works, a dramatic visual artwork that mirrors and responds to the phases of this solar/lunar extravaganza. 9-11am, Castle Mill Works (former North British Rubber Company HQ), Gilmore Park, Fountainbridge. Free. This commission is part of Dark Matters (see below). PLEASE NOTE: the sun will not be safe to look at today without proper protection.

Dark Matters: a project comprising of new temporary public art installations that will be presented in various sites across the city over a period of 12 months, and launched in conjunction with this year’s Science Festival theme of Light and Enlightenment. Edinburgh Printmakers has commissioned artists, astronomers and space engineers to create art from space and create installations that explore the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Areas of research for this project include investigations into ancient astronomical almanacs, Einstein’s general theory of relativity, the creation of new constellations, seeing the invisible, transforming the infra red and spectrometric data from distant galaxies and nebulae, and attempting to freeze and unfreeze sound waves. Edinburgh Printmakers and Castle Mill Works, Fountainbridge, will launch the project and present installations by artist David Faithfull and Dr Hermine Schnetler, artist Alastair Clark and Dr Eckhard Sutorius, and artist Mike Inglis working with space engineer Martin Black. Dark Matters is a collaborative partnership between Edinburgh Printmakers, the UK Astronomy Technology Centre and Edinburgh University, and is curated by David Faithfull. It will be accompanied by an ambitious events programme (including a gallery talk on Sunday 21st March). Launch tonight 6.30-8.30pm, Edinburgh Printmakers, Union Street. This installation ends 23rd May 2015.

The Gondoliers: let Portobello & Joppa Parish Church Drama Group take you away from the Scottish weather to sunny Italy with their production of the Gilbert & Sullivan favourite! 7.30pm, Church Hall, Portobello & Joppa Parish Church, 1 Brunstane Road North. Tickets cost £10/£5 and may be purchased by emailing office@portyjoppachurch.org. Also at same time on Saturday 21st March 2015.

Nitekirk: a space for peace in Edinburgh’s heart. One Friday evening each month Nitekirk provides a creative, drop-in experience of church. This month’s theme is Acceptance. 8-11pm (drop-in), St Columba’s By The Castle, 14 Johnstone Terrace. All welcome. ‘A place of welcome, a space for stillness, a pause on your journey, an open door’.

Canal View is a Positive Action school based in Wester Hailes, and they have been working on an opportunity for their pupils to show off their many varied talents and raise their ambitions now and for later life.

An idea came about just before Christmas when the pupils said they were very keen to record their own version of Band Aid. Following a discussion about copyright it was suggested that they write their own song and donate any money that they made to charity. Inspired by their enthusiasm their teacher Rachel Bennett emailed several local songwriters and James at the Listening Room responded immediately, wanting to support them with their ambition.

Caro and James from The Listening Room come along to the school once a week to work directly with the pupils and The Edinburgh Reporter visited today to see how their song is progressing.

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The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.

The class is now halfway through the process of producing a song and getting it recorded. They started in January, and have the bones of a song that is structured around the theme of friendship and has the working title of ‘On the Same Side’.

The next stages are for the pupils to learn to sing and accompany the song before visiting the recording studios at Edinburgh College and then recording a few different versions of the song back at Canal View, all under supervision of the Listening Room.

The pupils are keen to create a CD cover and possibly sell some copies to raise money for a charity. There has even been talk of a music video, live performance to officially release the song and sending copies to their favourite artists for their verdict! For what it’s worth we think it is a lovely song with great lyrics! 

They recently visited the Milton Road Campus at Edinburgh College to see what a professional recording studio looks like and they will be recording their song on 1 April 2015 at the school.

The recording will be produced during the Easter holidays ready for release at the end of April. 

Pets photo call

Gretna – Remembering the Leith Battalion

General Election Hustings

Edinburgh Instameet this weekend

Edinburgh International Festival 2015
This morning the Edinburgh News Cooperative would like you to bring your pets along to the Muirhouse Community Shop for a photo call.
There may be prizes for the most unusual pet!

The founding members of the Edinburgh News Cooperative are The Edinburgh Reporter, North Edinburgh Community News and Tenants and Residents in Muirhouse (TRIM).

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We recently met Bryan Maughan who runs the Pilmeny Youth Project and who is behind all the initiatives in the leaflet below.  He is one of those people who has infectious enthusiasm for what he does and we hope you will take an interest in his innovative scheme.

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This weekend will be Instagrams 11th Worldwide Instameet. Thousands of instagrammers (i.e those who use the social medium of Instagram!) will meet up in many locations around the world during the same weekend to capture and share beautiful photos.

This will be an #empty meet at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One in Edinburgh organised and hosted by two members of the local Instagram community: @jemmacraig (an art pro who loves taking photos of galleries and architecture in Edinburgh and Paris) and @wilde_oates (an outdoors enthusiast, who specialises in photographing the Scottish landscape).

During the evening of Sat 21 March instagrammers will have the gallery completely to themselves as it opens its doors especially for the instameet.

With private access to the empty gallery and time to stroll around at their leisure, the instagrammers will have a unique experience to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding art.

Although it is a little late to get involved at the gallery itself you can follow the content from the comfort of your home by searching for the #WWIM11 hashtag on Instagram.

We hope to have some of the images for you on Monday!

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Although the programme has been launched for the Edinburgh International Festival earlier this week the tickets are not on general distribution till 28 March at 10am.

Still you can look at all the lovely ballets, concerts, plays and operas that are being staged this year. And for the more discerning among you there is Franz Ferdinand……

Click here for the programme.

Sign up here for a daily email from The Edinburgh Reporter !
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The Scottish Youth Parliament will host its 56^th national sitting at the Edinburgh Training and Conference Venue when it convenes later today.

The Scottish Youth Parliament is the democratically elected voice of Scotland’s young people. Nearly 160 Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs), who are elected every two years, meet three times a year at National Sittings to debate policy, select campaign priorities, and host events with stakeholders and other guests.

This weekend is the last national Sitting of the current Membership. Each Membership is elected for a two year term. Following the SYP Elections 2015, which took place earlier this month, the MSYP elects will form the new Membership of the Scottish Youth Parliament from June 2015.

In the evening the SYP Awards will take place. As a youth-led organisation, the SYP Awards is a hugely significant occasion which recognises the outstanding work that Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs) and their Support Workers do to represent Scotland’s young people. This event will provide an important opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the current Membership, and celebrate their commitment to ensuring young people are at the heart of shaping Scotland’s future.

Speaking about the two-day event, the Chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament, Louise Cameron MSYP said:

“The Scottish Youth Parliament’s National Sitting is a fantastic opportunity for elected young people from across Scotland to come together and debate the issues of importance to their constituents. This will be the last Sitting of the current Membership, and I can confidently speak on behalf of the Membership when I say we have been on an extraordinary journey together over the past two years.

“It has been an honour to have represented Scotland’s young people as an MSYP. Since June 2013, SYP has held 6 national Sittings across the country, venturing as far as the Shetland Islands for our June 2015 AGM, and we’ve debated numerous issues that our constituents have told us are important to them, including zero hour contracts, work experience, among many others.

“We have campaigned on a range of issues of importance to Scotland’s young people, and helped foster a stronger, more inclusive Scotland by empowering young people to be truly involved in the decision-making process.

“One of my highlights as an MSYP has been witnessing the huge increase in the level of engagement of Scotland’s young people with politics. Around 80% of 16- and 17-year-olds registered to vote in the independence referendum, and knowing that SYP contributed to this legacy by engaging with over 18,500 young people and registered thousands of first time voters makes me extremely proud to have been an MSYP during this momentous occasion in our country’s history.

“I am particularly looking forward to the 2015 SYP Awards, and having the opportunity to celebrate the work of my fellow MSYPs, and their passion and commitment to ensuring the voices of Scotland’s young people continue to be heard and recognised by our country’s decision makers.”

Terri Smith, MSYP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, will be welcoming her fellow MSYPs to her hometown for the Sitting this weekend. Terri said:

“It’s great to be holding the 56^th Scottish Youth Parliament Sitting in Edinburgh, which I am proud to represent. Following the recent SYP elections, I know my fellow MSYPs are looking forward to coming together for the final Sitting of our term and representing the voices of our constituents.

“SYP’s national elections were a huge occasion for Scotland’s young people, and I am delighted to have been re-elected as a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for Edinburgh Northern and Leith. While this Sitting will mark the final meeting of a Membership who have enjoyed two fantastic years filled with an array of historic achievements, I am looking forward to working with the future Members of SYP and helping drive real change.”