The council is responsible for around 140 parks in the city. You can find out where they all are and what you can do in them on the Edinburgh Outdoors website or by using the Edinburgh Outdoors App. 

New research has revealed just how much the parks are worth to the city.

Analysis carried out on behalf of the Council by Carrick Associates demonstrates for the first time the impact of the city’s green spaces.

The study, which uses a Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach, has valued their benefits at an impressive £114m.

By measuring the social, environmental and economic change experienced by those who use Edinburgh’s parks, researchers were able to apply a monetary value to the effects. This is similar to the approach taken by The Scottish Forum on Natural Capital.

Environment Convener, Councillor Lesley Hinds, said: “This research demonstrates just how important parks are for our health, well being, environmental awareness and even local economy.

“Our parks are the gem in Edinburgh’s crown and are a real success story for the capital, as recent awards from Britain in Bloom and Entente Florale have recognised. But more than that, they are at the heart of many of the city’s communities.”

As part of the analysis, parks were divided into different categories – Premier, City, Natural Heritage and Community – and their stakeholders and benefits assessed.

Amongst these were the community, whose gains varied from enhanced fitness levels to well being, local employers, who could benefit from a more productive workforce, and school pupils, who are expected to build environmental awareness from a visit to the park.

By monitoring and interviewing visitors on their experiences, analysts concluded that, for every £1 spent by the Council maintaining parks, £12 of social, economic and environmental benefits will be delivered. The report also estimates an annual revenue of £51m for local businesses, health and well being benefits worth around £40.5m and outdoor education experiences equating to just under £1m.

Analysis builds on the results of the Edinburgh People’s Survey 2013, which found that the average Edinburgh resident visits a park in the city on 49 days in the year – almost one day a week.

Over the past five years a steady improvement in the quality of parks has been evidenced by annual Park Quality Assessments, as well as a record number of Green Flag Awards, and national and international recognition by Britain in Bloom and Entente Florale.

Edinburgh’s parks: Their value

This analysis has allowed the Council to predict that by using City of Edinburgh Council’s parks:

Individuals will gain health and wellbeing benefits worth around £40.5 million

The impact on social inclusion and community capacity is calculated to be worth over £6 million

Local businesses and the economy will gain additional revenue from visitors to the parks in the region of £51 million

Schools, nurseries and colleges are able to provide outdoor educational experiences that equate to just under £1 million

The awareness and understanding gained by visitors of their local environment is valued at just under £5 million

For an investment of £9,684,000 in parks and green space by City of Edinburgh Council it is estimated benefits worth £114,191,000 are generated.

Scotland run New Zealand close at BT Murrayfield.

New Zealand had been criticised in the press for naming a ’second string’ squad – with 13 changes to the that beat England – to face a Scotland team fresh from victory over Argentina, but a second string All Blacks team equates more to a ‘1.1 string’ as there were only a couple of, relatively, unknown faces in the line-up. Vern Cotter, on the other hand, had kept faith with the previous week’s team and had named the same starters and a couple of enforced changes to the bench. Game on!

With the strains of “We’ll take the High road…” drowning out the ‘message’ from the Haka, Liam Messam put his all into it and set the tone for the next 80 minutes. Or so you would have thought… Dan Carter’s kick-off fell short and gave Scotland the chance to get possession and push the All Blacks back, deep into their own half.

However, New Zealand regained the ball and reversed the play to push the hosts back. The defence held, but an eighth minute penalty award went astray from Carter and the score remained 0-0. Not a great start from the ‘World’s best Stand-off’

From the restart, the ball came back at Scotland and centre, Mark Bennett, almost turned over Richie McCaw on half way, but McCaw held on and got the ball clear. Swinging the play left, Victor Vito slipped a tackle from Alex Dunbar – who took out his own winger in the process – and headed for the line. Stuart Hogg and Greg Laidlaw raced over and caught Vito a few metres out, but the big No. 8 had momentum on his side and crashed over for the try. Referee, Roman Poite, went upstairs for a quick confirmation, but the job was done and the score was 5-0. Carter missed with this kick as well, so no extras were added.

So was that the start of the avalanche? Maybe not… The visitors took the restart ball and, again, worked upfield, but a mistimed pass on halfway from McCaw to Vito was snatched from the air by Tommy Seymour and, with only the posts in front of him, he charged off to dive over under the posts for Scotland’s try and an 8-5 game. However, with Bennett stretched out on the pitch suffering a hamstring pull, a comedy of errors ensued, with nobody ‘available’ to take the tee out to an increasingly frantic Laidlaw. With Poite pointing out that the seconds were running out, he took the only other option and drop-kicked the conversion to make it an 8-7 scoreline with 12 minutes played.

The following 15 minutes or so were dominated by the All Blacks and they gave cause for concern on a couple of occasions. The first of these followed a typical New Zealand change of direction and the ball was swiftly moved across to Vito, who pulled in Seymour and left Charles Piutau free on the wing. However, Bennett had kept going and, with the aid of Hogg, forced Piutau to release the ball. Coming back from this, it was Man-of-the-Match, Jeremy Thrush’s turn to charge it the home defence and he almost made it through, dragging Laidlaw with him, but Alex Dunbar stepped in and the pair hauled him down a few metres short. A quick recycle and the ball was out on the right wing and again heading for the Scot’s line. This time it went over, but in the pile of bodies, the TMO unable to confirm whether the ball had contacted the turf, so Poite went back for a penalty, which Carter again pushed wide! He managed to redeem himself five minutes later, however, as another All Black’s attack ended with another penalty, which he knocked over to extend the lead to 11-7.

The final few minutes up to half time saw both sides being awarded, successfully kicked, penalties and they went into the break with the score at 14-10.

Scotland were, more than, holding their own up to this point so it was with far less trepidation than normal that the second half was welcomed. And it looked like business as usual as the visitors were straight onto the offensive and pushed the game deep into the Scot’s 22. But the defence held out and reversed the play, driving New Zealand back into their 22 with a well worked passing game which had the defence scrambling on a couple of occasions. Reward came in the form of a penalty which Laidlaw saw over to pull the team up to within a point at 14-13.

The next 20 minutes of the match were fairly evenly matched with both sides defending well and turning to the attack. However, they had to be content with a penalty apiece and the match went into the final 15 minutes with the score at 17-16 and either team capable of taking the win – not something that could have been said of a Scotland-New Zealand game in recent years. And it was the Scots who came up with the first chance. With a penalty advantage in his pocket, Laidlaw put a high ball into the goal area and, with Duncan Weir and Seymour contesting with Sonny Bill Williams and Ben Smith, the hope was there. Smith did the full back thing, however and came down with the ball, but Scotland still had their penalty. Right footed kicker, to the left of the goal – ideal to naturally swing the ball in. Job done? Well, no…. Somehow the ball stayed arrow-straight and Laidlaw had shaved the right hand post to miss the opportunity to take a historic lead.

Staring defeat in the face, the All Blacks seemed to grow in stature – if that was possible – and it took them just over five minutes of play to get the winning score. A close-in lineout was won in the air by Thrush and he fired over to touch down, much to the relief of his team mates, to push the score out to 22-16 and then Carter dealt the death blow with a successful kick that made it a two-score lead at 24-16.

The final six minutes of the game were fairly well dominated by the home side, but they couldn’t get the final break to score and the match finished in overtime with a penalty award to the All Blacks and thus ended the best chance that the Scots have had for ages to win.

Overall the New Zealander’s were the more clinical of the two, with a few too many mistakes still happening in the Scots game, but Cotter seems to have instilled a bit of confidence and fire in the team which may have been lacking a touch in the recent past.

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

MONDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2014

Delighters: Hula Hooping  – taster session. For ages 14+, beginners or beginners + – session will be tailored to the abilities of the participants. 6.30-7.30pm, Forest Centre +, 38 Castle Terrace. Free but booking required: email info@delighters.co.uk or call 077461 43324.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Adult Book Group: join this monthly group for lively, friendly book chatter. Discuss everything from fiction to non-fiction, contemporary to classics, prizewinners to cult heroes. Currently reading Sarah Waters’ The Little Stranger. Next month: John Irving’s The Cider House Rules. 6-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. To join the group (it’s free!) email events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

LGBT: HIV Home Testing. Testing kits for HIV that you can use at home were introduced in Scotland this year; find out about their advantages and limitations from HIV Scotland staff. 6.30-8pm (within weekly drop-in session), LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information call 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.uk.

Scottish Geneaology Society: Ken Nisbet will talk about Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen of Rosebank Cemetery (Edinburgh). 7 for 7.30pm, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. For more information contact the Society at 15 Victoria Terrace, tel: 0131 220 3677 or email enquiries@scotsgeneaology.com.

Toddler Time: each programme is designed to introduce small children to the big screen, featuring 30 minutes shows for pre-school children and their parents and carers. This week: Olly the Little White Van: Programme 10 ‘a fun and charming animated show with a great message…’ 10-10.30am, Cameo Cinema, 38 Home Street. £3 per child, accompanying adults free if they join the Toddler Time Club (free – ask at box office). Free for babies under one year old. No adult unaccompanied by a toddler will be admitted.

Karma Club: live music and DJs in aid of Save The Children’s Syria Appeal. 7pm till late, Cabaret Voltaire, 36-38 Blair Street. £6 per person.

TUESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2014

The Football Cronicas: Jethro Soutar (who co-edited the book with Tim Girven and is a founder of Ragpicker Press) and translator Rachael McGill discuss all things literary, Latin American and football, plus translation and the setting up of a small business. A prison team in Argentina, a transvestite team in Columbia, Quechua women playing in bowler hats in the Peruvian Andes…The Football Cronicas showcases fifteen pieces of short-form writing that take football as a starting point on a a journey to the heart of Latin American society. This book is not-for-profit (proceeds will be donated to The Bottletop Foundation) and its publication was financed via crowdfunding. 6.30pm, Word Power Books, West Nicolson Street. Free, all welcome: donations also welcome!

The Golden Rule Quiz Night: one of Edinburgh’s most popular pub quizes. 6 rounds, ranging from general knowledge to sport, pictures, music, anagrams and much more. Lots of prizes! 8.30pm (arrive early to nab a comfy seat) tonight and every Tuesday, The Golden Rule, 30 Yeaman Place, Polwarth.

Kirkliston Kiddy Walks: a weekly walk through the village followed by crafts and a story at Kirkliston Library. 10-11.30am today and every Tuesday, usually starting at Allison Park but please check the group’s Facebook page for weekly details. For ages approximately 0-4 but if you have older children too they are also welcome.

The BJP and the Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy: Chris Ogden (St Andrew’s University) launches his new book, the first ever analysis of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s security policy. With their victory in the 2014 elections, understanding the foreign (and domestic) policies of the BJP has never been so critical. 5-6.30pm, Conference Room, David Hume Tower, University of Edinburgh. Organised by the university’s Centre for South Asian Studies.

Bookbug: rhymes and songs for pre-school children. 10.30-11am, Corstorphine Library, 12 Kirk Loan.

Salvation Army Shop Christmas Extravanganza! The shop has spent months selecting and saving special items to give you this opportunity to buy your Christmas presents and help a worthwhile cause. Stock is limited so come early! Doors open 9.30am, Salvation Army shop, Forrest Road.

Being Human Festival: the first UK-wide festival of the humanities. The National Museum of Scotland is holding a day of events as part of the festival: I am Breathing is a film about a 30 year old man with motor neurone disease. The film we be shown at 12.45pm and will be followed by a Q & A session with director Emma Davie. The Edge of Dreaming is a film about dreams and neuroscience. It will be shown at 3pm and will be followed by a Q & A session with director Amy Hardie. At 6pm both directors join producer Sonja Henrici for Visualising Voices, a panel discussion to look at the ways in which documentary film can help people with serious, often terminal, illnesses to find and articulate their own voices, making those voices heard in new ways. A drinks reception will follow the event. The films will be shown on a drop-in basis but tickets (free) are required for Visualising Voices; these can be booked via eventbrite. From 12.45pm, Auditorium, Level One, National Museum of Scotland (Lothian Street entrance). All events suitable for ages 18+.

Lunchtime Concert: Rohan de Saram (cello) and Tanya Ekanayaka (piano) perform Tovey Elegiac Variations Op 5, John Mayer Prabhanda and the world premiere of Tanya Ekanayaka’s Nim-Him and Haar (a duet for solo piano and semi-improvised solo cello). 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Watt Wonderful Women: an illustrated talk by Ann Jones. Did you know that Heriot-Watt University was a pioneer of equal opportunities? Thanks to Mary Burton, women were welcomed as early as 1869: come and hear some inspiring stories of Heriot-Watt’s trailblazing women. 12.20-1.20pm, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton, Currie EH14 4AS. Free tickets should be booked via eventbrite, and visitors should report to the university’s main reception for directions to the talk. Part of Previously…Scotland’s History Festival.

The Russian Word in Edinburgh: an evening with Diana Arbenina. At this literary event, prominent Russian singer, guitarist, songwriter and leader of The Night Snipers Diana Arbenina will present her new book The Sprinter, a collection of poetry and prose. There will also be music and discussion. Please note that this event will be in Russian. 6-7.30pm, Lecture Theatre G.03, University of Edinburgh, 50 George Square. Book online here. Organised by the Princess Dashkova Centre and Academia Rossica.

Nothing But The Poem: Thomas Lux. Read and discuss a selection of poems from this month’s poet (please note that the poet will be present on paper only). Thomas Lux is one of America’s leading poets, known for his highly entertaining and provocative poetry. 6pm, Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton’s Close. Tickets £5/£4: book via eventbrite. This event is repeated at 11am on Saturday 22nd November.

Bookbug: songs, rhymes and stories for babies, toddlers, pre-school children and their families. 10.30-11.15am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Cramond Community Choir: anyone who enjoys singing is welcome to come along to this choir, which sings everything from unaccompanied Scottish song to 4-part ABBA harmonies and songs from the shows! ‘Most of all we have fun’. 7.30-.9.30pm tonight and every Tuesday, Kirk Hall, Cramond Kirk, Cramond Glebe Road. Contact eleanor@loganpm.co.uk for more information. £1 per week.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Michael Meighan. Edinburgh resident and local historian Michael Meighan will talk about his two books, The Forth Bridges Through Time and Edinburgh Waverley Station Through Time. 6.30-7.30pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets available from Blackwell’s front desk or by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

University of Edinburgh Guest Writer Series: Tony O’Neill. New York musician and writer Tony O’Neill will be in conversation with author, poet and University Writer-in-Residence Jenni Fagan. O’Neill’s first novel Digging the Vein became a cult hit in North America, where he was hailed as the ‘new Off-Beat Generation’. He has since written three more novels, including the latest, Black Neon, and has gradually gained recognition in Europe as ‘a brilliant writer who avoids the cliches of the mainstream thriller’. ‘A pitch-black classic slice of neo-noir’ (Irvine Walsh).  6pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson Loan, Quartermile. Free and unticketed.

Golden Hare Books Presents Victoria Hendry: A Capital Union. Set in Edinburgh during the Second World War, A Capital Union is Victoria Hendry’s first novel, already nominated for the Historical Writers’ Association Debut Crown Award 2014. An historical story with a very contemporary resonance, A Capital Union deals with the schism over conscription that threatened to tear apart the SNP. The novel takes the reader back to wartime Edinburgh while raising profound questions about the nature of union, both political and personal, that are still as relevant today. 6.30pm, Golden Hare Books, St Stephen Street, Stockbridge. Free but booking recommended via eventbrite.

Projections, Constructions, Corruptions: The Work of Stan Douglas. A panel discussion with Dr Maeve Connolly (IADT Dublin), Professor Simon Kirby (University of Edinburgh) and Isla Leaver-Yap (LUX Scotland/Walker Art Centre, Minneapolis), exploring different aspects of Stan Douglas’s practice. Chaired by Dr Sarah Cooke (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Dundee). 6.30-8pm (refreshments from 6pm), Fruitmarket Gallery, Market Street. Tickets £6/£5 available from eventbrite. Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s review of the Fruitmarket’s current Stan Douglas exhibition here.

McNaughtan’s Christmas Exhibition: works (mainly smaller pieces, suitable for gifts) from Alison Burt, Lizzie Findlay, Rachel McKean, Laura Magliveras, Filly Nicol, Susie Reade, Luci Sim, Elizabeth Strong, Hazel Vellacott, Rosemary Walker and Jack Wiberley. McNaughtan’s Bookshop and Gallery, 3a and 4a Haddington Place: contact gallery for times.

In The Company of Nurses: Yvonne McEwan talks about her new book, the authorised history of the British Nursing Service in the Great War, which tells the much-neglected story of Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service (QAIMNS). Yvonne’s ground-breaking original research moves away from the long-held, uncritical and overly-romanticised views of First World War nursing and addresses the professional, personal and political consequences that arose for nurses in the pivotal years 1914-18. 2.30-3.30pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free tickets should be booked via eventbrite.

Bookbug: songs and rhymes for children under 3 and their families: 10.30-11am or 11.30am-12 noon, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

Jo Caulfield Presents …The Speakeasy: a cross-section of performers, hosted by Jo Caulfield. An evening of insightful humour and storytelling, mixed with theatre, music, song and poetry, ‘a truly enjoyable night out’. For ages 16+. 8-10pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets £6.

WEDNESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2014

Soutra: the ‘once powerful’ hospital in the Bannockburn years – a talk by archeo-ethno-pharmacologist Dr Brian Moffatt, Director of SHARP. Soutra was the site of the greatest medieval hospital north of York – archaeologists are now discovering the medical secrets of the Augustinian monks who practised there. 6.30pm, Corstorphine Library, 12 Kirk Loan. To book your place contact the library on 0131 529 5506.

Bookbug: songs and rhymes for very young children and their families. 2pm, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace.

Work in Progress: MZA. A night of comedy with a difference – headline comedians trying out their brand new material – off notes and off adrenalin! For over 18s only. Come expecting nerves, a bit of chaos and lots of laughs: this is definitely a work in progress, not a slick, finished show. 7.30pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £3: book via Summerhall website or call 0131 560 1581.

Representing British Muslims in the Noughties and Beyond: Challenges, Contentions and the Future. The formalised representation of British Muslims to the government and other official channels reached a landmark in the late 1990s with the establishment of the Muslim Council of Britain. Since then the question of whether there is a need for such representation of Muslims, who should do it, how, and to what end have been constant topics of debate. Dr Khadija Elshayyal, Postdoctoral Fellow on Muslims in Britain at the Alwaleed Centre at the University of Edinburgh, looks at how Muslims have fared in Britain over the last two decades, and provides some perspective on these debates. The Alaweed Centre is part of a unique network of Centres at prestigious universities around the world, committed to encouraging a better understanding of Islam and Islamic Culture through ground-breaking research and innovative outreach projects. 1-2pm, Seminar Room 1, Chrystal Macmillan Building, 15a George Square. Open to all.

Legacies of the 20th Century and Challenges for the 21st: Our Changing World Enlightenment Lecture. Professor Sir John Beddington will discuss Climate Change and Food Security.  6.30 (doors open 6.15) – 8pm, McEwan Hall, Teviot Place, University of Edinburgh. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

War Poets Collection Guided Tours: Catherine Walker leads a guided visit and talk about the many interesting characters who have had links with Napier’s Craiglockhart campus over the years. (The exhibition is open during usual campus hours and all are welcome to visit). 11am-12 noon or 2-3pm, War Poets Collection Exhibition Area, Edinburgh Napier University, Craiglockhart Campus, EH14 1DJ. Free but booking required (max. 12 people per tour): call 0141 455 4260 or email events@napier.ac.uk. Also available at same times on Friday 21st November.

Animal, Mechanical and Me: Dr Gill Haddow asks ‘If you had to make the choice, would you opt to have something human, animal or mechanically-made placed inside you?‘ and ‘Does having parts of your body replaced with materials from other sources make you feel any different?’ One of a series of public lectures presenting leading international research and ideas in the history, politics, philosophy and sociology of technology, presented in cooperation with the Institute for the Study of Science, Technology and Innovation, University of Edinburgh. 3pm, Seminar Room, Learning Centre Level 1,  National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free but please register with Maureen Kerr on 0131 247 4274 or m.kerr@nms.ac.uk.

Carbon Conversations at the Himalayan Centre for Art and Culture: the second of six free weekly sessions to reflect on what a greener lifestyle means for us and our community. Each session will focus on an area of our lifestyles and will come up with effective, individual plans to help reduce our environmental impact: this week: Energy in the Home. Share your experiences and be part of a collective initiative. 6-8pm, 46a Suite 5, Constitution Street, Leith. For more information and to book, contact victoria@himalayancentre.org or call 07851 802 002.  Free and open to all.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents David Forsyth and Stuart Allan: Common Cause: Commonwealth Scots and the Great War. Based on the recent exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, this book explores how military service was related to other expressions of Scottish identity. Personal stories will reinforce the main themes of migration, multiple identity and loss. David Forsyth and Stuart Allan are Principal Curators in the Department of Scottish History and Archaeology at the National Museums. 6.30-7.30pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets available from Blackwell’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival. Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the NMS exhibition here.

Sali Hughes – Pretty Honest: The Straight-talking Beauty Companion. Britain’s top beauty writer discusses her new book with Edinburgh author Angela Jackson. 6pm, Waterstones West End, Princes Street. Tickets £5 or £3 with Waterstones loyalty card, available from the shop. For more information call 0131 226 2666.

Visually Impaired Tour and Workshop: Remembering the Great War.  A free visually descriptive tour and practical workshop for the visually impaired. 10am-3.30pm, Farmer Education Suite, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: to book a place call 0131 624 6560.

The Speculative Society: 250 years of Debate, Argument and Delight. George III was on the throne, the Seven Years’ War was over, Mozart was in London and David Hume in Paris, when ‘The Spec’ was born into Enlightenment Edinburgh. William Creech Esq, publisher of Burns and later Lord Provost, laid out the society’s objectives; these were – and remain today – the promotion of excellence in public speaking and debating, and in prose composition. Spec Men included the young Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Professor David Purdie tells The Spec’s story. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Beauty By Design: Fashioning the Renaissance Opening Talk. Participants Tricia Allerston (SNG) and Jill Burke and Mal Burkinshaw (Edinburgh College of Art) will introduce the Beauty By Design research project which gave rise to this new exhibition, focusing on body image. New works created for the exhibition will also be discussed. 6-7.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Drumbrae Library Film Club: this month: Belle (PG). 6.45pm, Clermiston Room, Drumbrae Library Hub, 81 Drumbrae Drive. Please contact library staff for details of how to join. Free.

Morningside Community Council: ever felt that your voice cannot be heard? Concerned about any local issue – planning, licensing, roads, parks, walkways, cycle paths, open ground, refuse, recycling, local traders – or something else that affects the Morningside area? Morningside Community Council meets today and every third Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm, The Open Door, 420 Morningside Road. Local police officers hold a surgery for 30 minutes before the start of the meeting, at which residents can speak to them in confidence. All welcome. For more information call the Secretary on 0131 447 5976 or email secretary@morningside.org.uk. Also see the Community Council’s Facebook page.

LGBT Bi and Beyond: a fortnightly social gathering for people who identify as bisexual and non-monosexual. Organised social activities, refreshments provided: whatever your label or lack of label, we welcome you. 7-9pm, LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information call 0131 523 1100 or email biandbeyondedinburgh@gmail.com.

Morningside Justice and Peace Group: Andrew Milne, Project Director of the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, will talk about the redevelopment of the hospital – plans and progress. 10.30-11.30am, The Open Door, 420 Morningside Road. All welcome. £1 per meeting. For more information contact b.darcy20@gmail.com or call 0131 228 1807.

Health in Mind – Over 65s Coffee Morning. 10.30am-12 noon, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

Morningside Library Craft Group. 6.30-7.45pm, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road. No booking needed – just turn up! More information from the library staff.

THURSDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 2014

With Nerve and Heart and Mind: in her poem The German Ward, Vera Brittain wrote of how she worked with ‘nerve and heart and mind’ to match the courage and skill of the sister-in-charge, the only trained nurse in the understaffed ward caring for prisoners of war at No 24 General Hospital at Etaples. Professor Christine E Hallett’s presentation will explore the hidden work of nurses with emotionally damaged patients during the First World War, examining some of the ways in which nurses enabled patients to process their experiences, resolve their trauma and regain a sense of their own humanity in the highly-charged environment of the military hospital. The Craiglockhart Exhibition will be open from 6pm and the Librarian will be on hand to talk about the fascinating history of this historic site and the work that went on there in World War One. 6.30-7.30pm, Lindsay Stewart Lecture Theatre, Edinburgh Napier University, 219 Colinton Road. Free but booking required via Edinburgh Napier’s website.

Edinburgh Napier University UK and EU Postgraduate Webchat: if you are from the UK or EU and have questions about studying with Napier at postgraduate level, join this webchat and talk to staff and other potential students. 4-6pm: registration required here.

A Witch Among the Gooseberries: Ian McDonough launches his latest collection. Ian was born and brought up in Brora; he now lives in Edinburgh and is a member and former convenor of The Shore Poets. Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton’s Close. Free but please book a ticket via eventbrite.

South East Scotland Wargamers’ Club: every Thursday from 7pm, Royal Navy and Royal Marine Association, Heriot Hill House, 1 Broughton Road. For more information contact admin@seswc.co.uk.

Ecumenical Friends of St Cuthbert’s: Mark Wilson – My Last Visit to India? All warmly welcome: bring your own sandwiches, tea and coffee provided. 12.30-2pm, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church Hall, Lothian Road. £1.50 per person. Organised by Edinburgh City Centre Churches TOGETHER.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Quintin Jardine: Mathew’s Tale. In his landmark 40th novel Quintin Jardine tells the story of a man’s quest for justice – at any price. Best known for his crime series featuring Bob Skinner, Primavera Blackstone and Oz Blackstone, Mathew’s Tale, set in 1818 Carluke, is Quintin’s first foray into historic fiction. 6.30-7.30pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets available from Blackwell’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Bookbug: songs and rhymes for very young children and their families. 11am, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace. Free: no booking required, just turn up!

Easel Sketching in the Gallery: November. Sketching in the Gallery, led by artist Damian Callan. A different subject each month, sometimes with a model. All materials supplied. 2-4pm, Main Gallery Floor, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed. Also available at same times on Friday 21st November.

The Scottish Traditional Music Players: Alan John (fiddle) and Graham MacKintosh (piano) present a rich and varied programme, drawing on the slow airs, strathspeys, reels, jigs, hornpipes and marches that have become a part of Scottish culture. Readings from Scottish literature are inserted to underline the message of the music. 6-6.45pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

Bookbug: songs and stories for pre-school children. 10.30-11am (fortnightly – next session 4th December), Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. Also on Saturday 22nd November.

LGBT: Self Help for Scarring. Hosted by Merrick Pope, coordinator of Edinburgh’s Skin Camouflage Clinic, this workshop offers information and support on how to manage scars and improve their appearance no matter how old they are or what type they are, in addition to offering tips on how to feel more confident and answering questions on scarring. The last half hour will provide an opportunity to speak to Merrick individually regarding personalised support. 6.30-8pm, LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. Free but booking is essential: contact the Centre on 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.

Under Fives Storytime. 10.30-11am, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

Bridgend Growing Communities: weekly free gardening workshops for adults in the garden behind the library. 12 noon-2pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. All welcome!

LGBT Learning Disabilities: Social Circle. A monthly group for LGBT people who also identify as having a learning difficulty or disability. Today’s topic: information about People First and Speak Out discussions about bullying. 2-4pm, Lifecare Centre, 2 Cheyne Street. For more information call George on 0131 523 1100 or email george@lgbthealth.org.uk

FRIDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2014

Bon Papillon Winter Exhibition: Ingrid Nilsson with Senja Bownes, Lynne Harkes and Melanie Williamson. Open preview 5.30pm tonight, then 10am-5pm Wednesday to Sunday, closed Mondays and Tuesdays, Bon Papillon, 15 Howe Street. Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s choice of the Top Five Scones in Edinburgh here – and see why Bon Papillon won!

Jamboree Fundraising Ceilidh: a family night to help raise funds to send five Young Explorer Scouts to the World Scout Jamboree in Japan in 2015. The scouts all belong to Craigentinny Scout Unit: this will be a fantastic opportunity and a once in a lifetime experience for them, and part of the event’s proceeds will also be used to assist scouts in developing countries to attend the Jamboree. A professional ceilidh band will play and supper is included in the ticket price; a bar service will be available. 7-11pm, Portobello High School, 10 Duddingston Road. Tickets £7 (£5 for ages 5-15), £20 for a family of 4. Email joan.m.thomson@btinternet.com for more information.

Storytime: for young children. 10.30am today and every Friday, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace.

Lunchtime concert: Gordon Bragg (violin) and James Willshire (piano) perform Mozart Sonata for Violin and Piano in G major K301, Respighi Sonata for Violin and Piano in B minor and Bartok Romanian Folk Dances. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Freeze Frame Film Club: an informal evening of flickering images from classic old favourites.  This month: Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot, with Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe. Come early and enjoy a three course meal before the show, or simply come for the film. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 8pm, Out of The Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Film £2.50/£2, payable on the door or in advance from the cafe: meal £15 per person, must be booked in advance via the Drill Hall Cafe on 0131 555 7100.

Crafty Friday: arts and crafts afternoon for children aged 4+. 2pm, Blackhall Library, 56 Hillhouse Road. Free, no booking required – just turn up!

University of Edinburgh Postgraduate Open Day: an opportunity to learn  more about the university’s postgraduate programmes and meet staff and current students. General information (funding, accommodation, facilities, life in the city, employability, etc) plus special sessions in each School: see website for details and full programme. Coffee from 9.30am; drinks reception 5-6.30pm, and lots of events in between. Booking required: click here. For more information contact Student Recruitment and Admissions on 0131 650 4360, on Facebook or via online form.

Bookbug: songs and rhymes for very young children and their families. 10.30-11am, Oxgangs Library, 343 Oxgangs Road North.

Edinburgh College of Art Friday Lecture Series: Lucy Soutter, contemporary art photographer. 11.30am – contact College of Art for venue. All welcome.

Fiddle 2014: the Scots Fiddle Festival starts today!  Recitals, ceilidhs, sessions, workshops, concerts, stalls and talks at two venues, the Queen’s Hall and Summerhall. You can go on a Fiddle Walk and delve into the fiddle history of Edinburgh, try step dancing, learn some tunes from Shetland, see top fiddlers perform, ceilidh the night away or learn some Gaelic with last year’s winner of the An Comunn Gaidhealach Gold Medal for Ladies Solo Singing – and there’s plenty more!  For full programme see the festival website. Opening concert tonight; Orkney Folk: The Fiddle Gathering,  7.30pm, Queen’s Hall, 85-89 Clerk Street. Festival continues on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November. All tickets available from Queen’s Hall box office, in person, by phone (0131 668 2019) or online.

War Poets Collection Guided Tours: Catherine Walker leads a guided visit and talk about the many interesting characters who have had links with Napier’s Craiglockhart campus over the years. (The exhibition is open during usual campus hours and all are welcome to visit). 11am-12 noon or 2-3pm, War Poets Collection Exhibition Area, Edinburgh Napier University, Craiglockhart Campus, EH14 1DJ. Free but booking required (max. 12 people per tour): call 0141 455 4260 or email events@napier.ac.uk.

Edinburgh Napier University Campus Tours: come along, view the fantastic facilities and meet the Student Ambassadors. Tours will run simultaneously at 2pm at each of the Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill campuses. Online booking is required and early booking is highly recommended as tours fill up fast. For further information contact studentrecruitment@napier.ac.uk.

Royal Botanic Garden Photography Competition Exhibition: see the work of the winners and finalists in this competition, run by the Friends of RBGE. 10am-3.45pm, Gateway Gallery, upstairs at the John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free. Closes 8th February 2015.

What Nourishes Us?An Inter-faith Evening. Sharing  in a nourishing supper, sharing thoughts on what nourishes us spiritually,and sharing a common path of contemplation (walking the labyrinth). Please bring some food to share. 6.30pm, Polwarth Parish Church, 36-38 Polwarth Terrace. For more information contact Margaret at labyrinth@polwarth.org.uk. Part of Scottish Inter-Faith Week.

Easel Sketching in the Gallery: November. Sketching in the Gallery, led by artist Damian Callan. A different subject each month, sometimes with a model. All materials supplied. 2-4pm, Main Gallery Floor, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Landscape with Apollo and the Muses by Claude Lorrain (1652): Lorrain was a pioneer of the classical or idealised landscape of the 17th century, and Landscape with Apollo and the Muses is a grand, definitive statement of his supremely poetic style. Art historian Andrew Paterson considers the qualities that made Claude so influential on later landscape painters such as Turner and Constable, and even on the origins of rural tourism. 12.45-1.30pm, (gallery floor) Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

Collette Rayner: Access As Idiot Distraction. A new film created by the artist based on research into the Principality of Sealand, a former World War II sea fort located six miles off the port of Felixstowe, claimed by its owners as a sovereign micro nation in 1967. Working with digital animation, sound and text, Collette reclaims an unsuccessful attempt to gain access to Sealand in 2013. Preview 6-8pm tonight, then 10am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday until 25th January 2015, Collective Gallery, City Observatory and City Dome, Calton Hill.

transFORM: a new exhibition drawing together a group of four artists, Nathalie Cortada, David Henderson, Robert Mach and Keiko Mukaide, who produce diverse work with a shared underlying passion, a fascination with the human made world – the things people make, the processes used to make them and how an object’s life affects how we see it and react with it. Open preview 6-8pm tonight, then 12 noon-7pm Tuesday to Friday, 11am-6pm Saturday and 11am-5pm Sunday until 30th November 2014, Patriothall Gallery, Wasps Studios 1d Patriothall, off Hamilton Place, Stockbridge.

Julius Koller: Galeria Ganku: book launch.  Ganek Gallery or Galeria Ganku is the name of an inaccessible rock formation in the High Tatras, a mountain range on the border of Slovakia and Poland. Koller co-opted this as a site for a fictive institution, initially beginning in 1971 by drawing on pages from the natural history magazine Vysoke Tatry (High Tatras). Ganek Gallery grew up around a small group of members, had a constitution and a set of articles, and served as an umbrella for the imaginative activity of the group. This book, written and edited by art historian and writer Daniel Grun in Slovak and English, includes magazine papers, photographs, photomontages and textual documents by Koller, an essay on the origins and context of the gallery, and interviews with the key participants. 6-9pm, Rhubaba, 25 Arthur Street.

Laurel Gallery Christmas Exhibition: works by gallery artists in 2D and 3D media, with new glass work by David Flower. From today until 10th January 2015, Laurel Gallery, Stephen Street, Stockbridge. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Nitekirk: a welcoming sacred space for all, ‘a place of welcome, a space for stillness, a pause on your journey, an open door’. This month: Threads of Memory, with music by Justin Nash. Come and go as you like, join in songs, create art, read poems, have quiet conversations – or just sit in silence and enjoy the space. 8-11pm (drop-in), Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. This ministry is rooted in Greyfriars Kirk and supported by its ecumenical friends. A different venue each month; all welcome. More information here.

SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2014

Edinburgh Steiner School Christmas Market: handmade gifts and crafts, puppet shows and fairground games, raffle, tombola, complementary therapies, live music, King Winter’s Grotto, Viennese Cafe, world food market, craft workshops, star hunt and more. 11am-4pm, Edinburgh Steiner School, 60 Spylaw Road. £2/£1 (£5 for family of 4).

Flamenco Fun! An exciting performance of dance and music from Imma and friends, followed by a workshop for all ages, covering the basic steps of flamenco. Refreshments provided. 12 noon-1.30pm, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace. Free: no booking required, just turn up!

Portobello Expectant and New Parents Event: if you have just had a baby or are expecting one, come along and learn about the great range of local groups, classes and services. From ante-natal classes to baby groups, breastfeeding support, nappy services and tumbletots – there’s something for everyone, and group representatives will be on hand to tell you more. The first 50 people will receive a free PlayTalkRead goody bag! 12 noon-2pm, Dalriada, 77 Promenade, Portobello. Free: more information from Sarah at Sarah@birthandbeyond.org.uk.

All Night Live Extravaganza: The Valeetahs, Fast Girls, The Twistettes, Babylon Dub Punks, The Phelgm and Dirty Red Turncoats. 7pm-3am, Henry’s Cellar Bar, 16a Morrison Street.

Bookbug: songs and stories for pre-school children. 10.30-11am today and every Saturday, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street.

In Praise of Food: Choir Cookbook Launch. The choir will launch a new book of their favourite recipes; you are invited to a lavish afternoon tea with entertainment from the church’s musicians. 2.30-4.30pm, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, George Street. £5 per person: all profits will go towards the choir’s 2015 trip to Germany.

The Vintage Kilo Sale: over 5 tonnes of quality mixed vintage fashion and accessories – £15 per kilo! Stock is replenished throughout the day. 11am-4pm, Out of The Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Entry £1.

Meet Your Maker: Textiles and Ceramics. Join craftmakers in celebration of Scottish craft as they showcase the design, processes and techniques behind their work. Independent designer Laura Spring invites you to drop in during the morning to have a go at producing a two colour pattern sample onto fabric, using the Museum’s collection as inspiration. Ceramicist Frances Priest will answer your questions on working with clay and get creative in the production of a large-scale collaborative artwork – experiment with drawing and mark-making on clay. Ursula Hunter will introduce you to the craft of lino-printing.  Also available on Sunday 23rd November, but please note times will vary and some artists will not be available at certain times – see website for details. Textiles and ceramics sessions are free and offered on a drop-in, first come, first served basis. Lino printing session costs £20 and will run from 1-3.30pm on Saturday only: tickets can be booked online or by contacting NMS. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street.

Family Cinema: see your favourite films for free! Adventure, excitement, fun and laughs: choc ices and juice available to buy for 50p each during the interval. Best for children up to 10 years: all children must be accompanied by an adult. This week Hoodwinked! (2005).  10.30am-12.30pm (inc. interval), St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace.

Nothing But The Poem: Thomas Lux. Read and discuss a selection of work by this month’s poet (please note that the poet will be present on paper only). Thomas Lux is one of America’s leading poets, known for his highly entertaining and provocative poetry. 6pm, Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton’s Close. Tickets £5/£4: book via eventbrite.

St John’s Craft Fair: handmade arts and crafts, including stationery, jewellery, upcycled furniture and knitted jumpers, scarves and hats. Proceeds to St John’s Development Fund. 2-4pm, St John’s Episcopal Church Hall, Princes Street.

Botanical Treasures: join RBGE staff to view some of the hidden gems from the Garden’s collections, and hear the stories behind the objects chosen for the latest RBGE publication, Botanical Treasures. For ages 12+. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free. Also available at same times on Sunday 23rd November.

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Garden, discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants.For ages 14+.  2pm, meet at John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. £5 per person; no advance booking needed. Also available at same time on Sunday 23rd November.

Christian Aid Christmas Craft Fair: enjoy a cup of coffee and some home baking and pick up some Christmas presents. Crafts plus Christian Aid cards and gifts, preserves and cakes.  10am-12 noon, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 18 West Mayfield. £3 per person.

GENERATION Tours at Modern One: free, discussion-led tours of the GENERATION exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed.

Live Music with Baby Taylor: Baby Taylor began touring the Glasgow music scene at 17; her album A Moment of Sympathy for All My Enemies was completed by the age of 19. She combines her acoustic-alternative style with a classic rock edge, pairing often sad or angry lyrics with a soft and uplifting vocal to create a refreshingly different sound. 12 noon-3pm (with breaks), City Art Centre, Market Street.

The Highland Malawi Trust Coffee Morning: come along and find out more about this worthwhile charity whilst enjoying home baking and refreshments. The Trust is especially appealing for knitters who could make new-born baby clothes, particularly blankets, hats and ‘fish and chip’ jumpers, for the Mzuzu General Hospital. Feel free to use your own patterns or ask your local library for some: completed items may also be dropped of at your local library. 11am-1pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street. Contact Maria on 0131 258 8052 for more information.

SUNDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2014

Scottish Inter-Faith Week begins today; its theme this year is Journeys, and the programme includes films about young women from different faiths and about the journey of the soul, a mindfulness session, talks on religious freedom and on Middle Eastern Art at the British Museum, a discussion about the role of meditation in religion, an inter-faith Shabbat service, Faith Exchange – and a perennial favourite, The Big Inter-Faith Quiz. The opening event is today at the University of Edinburgh Chaplaincy and will feature a variety of speakers and performers; 4.30-5.30pm, 5 Bristo Square. It will be followed by a dinner reception open to all, 5.30-6.30pm at the same venue. Please email Sakina@eifa.org.uk if you wish to attend the dinner. Full week’s programme here.

Marchmont Playgroups’s Christmas Fun Day! Free Monkey Music sessions, Meet Santa, mulled wine, chocolate and bottle tombolas, raffle, face painting, games, lucky dip, biscuit decorating, children’s tattoos, refreshments. 2-4.30pm, Marchmont St Giles’ Church, Kilgraston Road. Entry £2, children 5+ £1.

Filmhouse Junior: films for a younger audience. Today: Belle and Sebastian (PG). 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets £3.50 per person, big or small.

Storytelling – Stargazing Stories: throughout the world people tell stories about the stars in the sky, why they have particular names and how they got there. Join storyteller and musician Marion Kenny in the Great Hall of the Portrait Gallery, gaze up at the constellations on the ceiling overhead whilst being transported through the cosmos with traditional tales and tunes from around the globe. For ages 7+. 2pm or 3pm (45 minute sessions),  Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

Meet Your Maker: Textiles and Ceramics. Join craftmakers in celebration of Scottish craft as they showcase the design, processes and techniques behind their work. Independent designer Laura Spring invites you to drop in during the morning to have a go at producing a two colour pattern sample onto fabric, using the Museum’s collection as inspiration. Ceramicist Frances Priest will answer your questions on working with clay and get creative in the production of a large-scale collaborative artwork – experiment with drawing and mark-making on clay. Ursula Hunter will introduce you to the craft of lino-printing.  From 2pm to 3pm Laura Spring and Ursula Hunter will be in conversation with the Museum’s Assistant Curator, Art & Design, Sarah Rothwell. Please note times of demonstrations will vary and some artists will not be available at certain times – see website for details. Textiles and ceramics sessions are free and offered on a drop-in, first come, first served basis; the ‘in conversation’ event is also free but booking is required via the NMS website or by contacting the information desk. 10am-4pm, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street.

Winter Guided Walk: join a Garden Guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Garden, discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the Garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, meet at John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. £5 per person; no advance booking needed.

Botanical Treasures: join RBGE staff to view some of the hidden gems from the Garden’s collections, and hear the stories behind the objects chosen for the latest RBGE publication, Botanical Treasures. For ages 12+. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio,  John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free.

St Giles’ at Six: Festal Evensong sung by the combined choirs of St Giles’, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral and Paisley Abbey. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

Hibs passed up a great chance to leapfrog Queen of the South into third place in the Championship yesterday at Easter Road, and afterwards Head Coach Alan Stubbs expressed his disappointment with the result.

Speaking to Hibernian TV, the Englishman said: “We need to do more as individuals and as a team. For the amount of possession we have had, I thought the lads at the back have had a relatively comfortable game but I think from the midfield going forward we just haven’t done enough, especially when you have had that much possession.

“I thought at time we were waiting for something to happen rather than making something happen.

“I would like to have seen more players look to be the one to do something whereas we just waited and hoped that something was going to happen.

“We’d worked on getting into the box. We knew that Queen of the south defended along the six yard line so we worked on cut backs.

“We had one or two opportunities. Heff (Paul Heffernan) had a great opportunity and usually scores them eight time out of ten but it was going to be one of these games. It was just a matter of taking that one chance, but it’s not his fault that we haven’t won this game.

“We can’t have that much of the play and not be more creative in the final third. There was one or two who could have done more.

“I thought Scotty Allan was head and shoulder above anyone on the pitch but he can’t fetch and carry so it’s important that we all have to muck in and give a little bit more that we gave today.

“Listen, they have done really well recently and we haven’t lost the game but it’s a game we should have won.

“I felt like we were going to score a goal but earlier on this season I would have felt that we would have lost the game 1-0. From that point of view we are coming on but I’m disappointed because we have dropped two points today but we will keep going and keep working in training.”

Transplant list shortens

Council offices on the move

Lunchtime concert

Sleeping in Temples

Locanda de Gusti Street Food Night

The number of people waiting for a transplant has fallen to its lowest level since 2006, a report detailing Scotland’s organ donation record has shown.

The average number of people waiting for a transplant has fallen by a quarter in the last seven years – from 793 in 2006/7 to 595 in 2013/14.

The figures, detailed in a ‘report card’ published this week by The Scottish Government, shows marked improvement in nearly all areas of the organ donation process – with donor and transplant numbers up significantly in the last few years.

This is the first time the Scottish Government has published a report card on NHS performance in this area and it is to be widely distributed to staff and patients across the country annually.

It fulfils a commitment made in the Scottish Government’s A Donation and Transplantation Plan for Scotland 2013 – 2020, to publish an annual report card on four or five key national measures on organ donation and transplantation.

The report shows that the number of living and deceased donors rose by almost 60 per cent between 2011/12 and 2013/14 and, over the same period, the number of transplants from living and deceased donors rose from 345 in a year to 425 in a year.

In addition the number of patients referred to the organ donation service has more than doubled in the last three years, meaning more patients who have expressed a wish to donate their organs after death have had those wishes honoured.

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: “Over the last few years we have made important strides in raising awareness of the importance of organ donation in Scotland and we have been encouraging more and more people to make their wishes known to friends and family.

“We want Scotland to be amongst the best performing countries in the world for donation and transplantation, and this year’s report shows we are continuing to make excellent progress towards this goal.

“This is thanks to every donor and every donor’s family who have demonstrated such compassion and generosity in the face of tragic and difficult circumstances. It is also testament to the work of staff across the NHS in Scotland who work tirelessly to ensure that people’s organ donation wishes are respected and that every donation counts.”

The publication also highlights the need to increase the number of families who agree for donation to go ahead – which has seen a gradual rise from 57.1 per cent in 2010/11 to 61.6 per cent in 2013/14. Around 90 more lives each year could be saved if this figure rose to 80 per cent.

Mr Matheson added: “This year our public campaign focuses on encouraging people to talk to their friends and family about their decision to donate. Letting those closest to you know your decision makes it easier for them to honour your wishes if they ever need to.”

***

Some council services are moving from 1 Cockburn Street on 28 November 2014

Housing and homelessness support – moving to 1A Parliament Square

• housing advice
• housing options
• temporary accommodation
• support to remain in your own home
• immigration and asylum support

City Centre & Leith Neighbourhood Office – moving to the Customer Hub, 249 High Street

• paying Council Tax and rent
• housing, including bidding on properties through Key to Choice
• reporting anti-social behaviour or environmental crime
• parks and green spaces
• roads issues

These services are currently based at 1 Cockburn Street but the office will be closing on 28 November.

***

This Friday 21 November 2014 at 13.10 you can get along to the Reid Concert Hall in Bristo Square to listen to Gordon Bragg on the violin and James Wilshire on piano playing Mozart, Respighi and Bartók. This free concert is part of the University series.

***

Susan Tomes is a classical pianist who also writes about performance.

Her new book, Sleeping in Temples, is a collection of personal essays about performing classical music and being a musician. It covers a wide range of topics from ‘what is interpretation?’ to what to wear for concerts, and from the value of long-form music to the link between music and health.

Susan told The Edinburgh Reporter: “I grew up in Edinburgh, lived in London for over 30 years, and recently moved with my husband from London to Edinburgh (a first for him, and ‘back’ for me). Therefore I’m now an Edinburgh-based author and would be delighted if people in Edinburgh got to know about my book. I will be talking about it at the Central Library on 20 January 2015 at 6.30pm.” Put the date in your new 2015 diary now!

***

Sing Out! featuring Brightons Praise Group. Come and sing out for homeless people! Organist: Robin Gardiner. Refreshments will be served in the Undercroft Cafe following the Sing Out! 7pm, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, George Street. Retiring collection for Scottish Churches Housing Action.

Roddy Simpson: Victorian Scottish Photography. Roddy Simpson, photographer, photohistorian, author, Open Studies tutor at Edinburgh University and Honorary Research Fellow at Glasgow University, will talk about the photography of Victorian Scotland – its processes, personalities and popularity. 4-5pm,  The Saltire Society, 9 Fountain Close, 22 High Street. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Hidden Haiti: Fourth World Art. Discover more about how Haitian artists recycle materials by turning them into beautiful artwork and homeware at this launch exhibition, and learn how Fourth World Art is supporting artisans to rebuild after the crippling 2010 earthquake. 1am-5pm, The Old Lab, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Free.

Bags of Art: cool and creative fun for ages 4-12 with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. 2-4pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Hearing Impaired Tours: Remembering the Great War. A free tour with portable loops for the hearing impaired led by artist Tessa Asquith-Lamb. 11am-12 noon, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. To book your free place contact the Information Desk on 0131 624 6560.

St Giles’ At Six: Sang Scule. A Garden in the North: Warrior Kings and Holy Men. Choral music for Robert The Bruce by Ben Parry, and for James IV by Sheena Phillips, with plainsong for St Columba, St Ninian and St Kentigern and Scottish Renaissance motets by Peebles, Douglas and Anon. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.

SPFL Championship, Saturday 15 November 2014 – The Falkirk Stadium 

After last week’s struggle to overcome Raith Rovers by a single goal at Tynecastle, I looked at this weekend’s fixtures and felt there was the distinct possibility of Hearts lead at the top of the SPFL Championship being reduced. Robbie Neilson’s men faced a tricky visit to Falkirk and the Maroon’s record at the Falkirk Stadium has hardly been impressive of late. With Rangers playing Alloa Athletic at Ibrox, I suspect I wasn’t alone in thinking Hearts lead at the top of the table might be reduced to two or even a solitary point. At the end of Saturday evening, I needn’t have worried. Not only did Hearts record another victory to extend their unbeaten run to a highly impressive 13 games, thanks to Rangers only mustering a draw against the Wasps, the table-toppers actually increased their lead to six points. And with fellow promotion contenders Hibernian also dropping points, it was a good afternoon for Robbie Neilson’s side.

Neilson had spoken during the week about not rushing injured stars Danny Wilson and Osman Sow back too early and about utilising the squad. Thus, the skipper and the striker remained on the sidelines while Miguel Pallardo replaced Sam Nicholson and Kevin McHattie came in for the injured Adam Eckersley.

As has been the case so often this season, Hearts began the game on the offensive. El Hassnaoui brought out a fine save from former Jambo keeper MacDonald in the opening minutes before Prince Buaben fired an effort into the side net. Falkirk were defending resolutely but the breakthrough for Hearts came in the 27^th minute. The ever-dangerous Billy King set off on a mazy run before passing to Kevin McHattie. The young full back showed the composure of a seasoned striker as he turned inside the penalty box before firing the ball high into the net past a startled MacDonald to give the visitors a deserved lead.

Ten minutes later, Hearts doubled their lead. Jamie Walker sped down the left wing and sent over a dangerous cross into the Falkirk penalty box where El Hassnaoui got to the ball first to poke it home. Half-time arrived with Hearts fully deserving of their 2-0 lead. Half-time Falkirk 0 Hearts 2

Hearts fans know full well, however, that their team seldom do anything the easy way (apart from Scottish Cup finals against their city rivals) If the first 45 minutes belonged to the visitors, the second period was, in the main, dominated by the home side whose half-time substitution which brought about the arrival of Cooper brought an immediate change. He forced a fine save from Neil Alexander and the Hearts defence were struggling to keep Cooper at bay. That said, Jamie Walker should have secured victory for Hearts with just over 20 minutes left when he intercepted a poor pass back from Biabi but found his effort on goal well saved by MacDonald.

The Bairns gave themselves a lifeline when Vaulks was allowed to run through the Hearts defence before passing to Biabi who was given too much time to turn the fire the ball past Alexander. From looking comfortable, Hearts were now having to defend although substitute James Keatings had a great chance to finish the game near the end when he latched on to Walker’s cross only to fire his effort wide of the post.

The game did finish moments later and Hearts had clinched an impressive three points at a venue where they have often struggled. With Rangers unexpectedly dropping two points at home, Hearts lead at the top of the league is now six points and with Rangers visiting Tynecastle next Saturday for an eagerly-anticipated clash, another home victory – and Hearts have won every home game so far this season – would extend that lead to nine. Hearts other main contenders for promotion – Hibernian – are now 16 points behind.

‘We shall not be moved’ bellowed the Maroon Army who made up about half of the 7,000 crowd on Saturday. Another three points next Saturday and they may be proved correct…

Falkirk: MacDonald, Shaughnessy, McCracken, Vaulks, Taiwo, Alston, Smith, Sibbald, Grant, Leahy, Loy.

Hearts: Alexander, McHattie, Ozturk, Gomis, Walker, El Hassnaoui, King, Pallardo, Buaben , McKay, McGhee.

Referee: Calum Murray

Att: 7,003

Top Man: Morgaro Gomis – yet again, the wee man was everywhere.

The First Minister Alex Salmond has given a parting gift to secure the future of Scotland’s national youth theatre. He announced a £1 million package of public and private funding to engage more young people in culture and the arts.

The three-year investment will support Scottish Youth Theatre, the National Youth Choir of Scotland, National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and YDance to deepen youth arts participation in the run up to Scotland’s Year of Young People in 2018.

The funding will strengthen and support the national youth arts companies’ work to deliver the ambitions set out in Scotland’s first ever youth arts strategy, ‘Time to Shine’.

The First Minister said:

“The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and the accompanying cultural programme was an incredible showcase for our country, and in our glittering Games the Scottish Youth Theatre were one of the true stars of the show.

“I am delighted to announce that with generous private sector support from Clyde Blowers, the Scottish Government will provide £1 million over the next three years to secure the future of the Scottish Youth Theatre and to support our other talented national youth companies as we count down to the 2018 year of Young People.

“Our national youth performing arts companies deliver incredibly important work and have helped to identify and nurture some of Scotland’s greatest cultural talent. This funding will ensure we continue to deepen our young people’s engagement with culture and the arts, providing a pathway to professional arts careers – with all the benefits that such participation can bring in terms of education, confidence and self-esteem.

“It will enable our national youth arts performing companies to play an even greater part in the implementation of Scotland’s first ten-year youth arts strategy, which will establish Scotland as an international leader in children and young people’s art by 2023.

“Our ambition is for Scotland to be the best place in the world to grow up. One of the ways we can achieve this is by creating the conditions in which all our children and young people have the opportunity to access and engage in culture and the arts.”

Today’s funding will support Scotland’s four national youth performing arts companies – Scottish Youth Theatre, the National Youth Choir of Scotland, National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and YDance – to sustain and extend the breadth and depth of their engagement across Scotland and internationally. It will support each company to build on the legacy of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, engage with the Scottish First World War centenary commemorations programme, and work more collaboratively with the rest of the sector and each other.

Last night  (Friday 14 November 2014) at around 11pm three men aged 16,18 and 22 were walking down North Fort Street towards the cycle path when they were approached and threatened by three men, one of whom produced a knife.

The suspects then made off with the males’ personal belongings.

Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

The first suspect is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall with a slim build and wearing a black scarf over his nose and mouth and a dark hooded top with the hood up.

The second suspect is described as white, 6ft tall, late teens to early twenties with a slim build, short dark hair with a gaunt appearance and lines around his mouth. He was wearing dark jogging bottoms and a grey hooded top.

The third suspect is described as white 5ft 8ins tall with a clean shaven face and wearing dark jogging bottoms and a grey hooded top.

Detective Constable Mark Seymour said: “Fortunately, none of the victims were injured during this robbery but were understandably upset at the theft of their belongings.

“We are now keen to hear from anyone who was in or around North Fort Street on Friday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious.

“Anyone who recognises the description of the suspects or who has any other information relevant to this investigation is also asked to contact police immediately.

“Officers are currently pursuing a number of lines of enquiry to trace the stolen goods. A number of phone apps and property marking kits are available to the public and we would advise people to utilise these where possible to aid in the recovery of any stolen items.”

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

In the early hours of this morning (Saturday 15 November 2014) a man was seriously assaulted while in a nightclub in Frederick Street.

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following this incident at the SUVA venue.

A 28-year-old man was standing at the side of the dance floor when a male struck him to the face with an unknown object.

As a result, the victim was taken to hospital but was later released.

The suspect, who is described only as being white, in his twenties and wearing dark clothing, then ran from the club and was lost to sight.

Anyone who can assist officers with their ongoing enquiry is now asked to come forward.

Detective Constable Douglas Mogg said: “The victim suffered a painful injury to his face and we are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry to trace the male responsible.

“Anyone who was in the club and witnessed the attack or who has information that can help us trace the suspect is urged to contact police immediately.”

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

Edinburgh Police have put out an appeal for any witnesses to an incident which took place in The Meadows on Saturday morning between 6.50 and 7.10am.

This was the time that a young woman was subjected to a serious sexual assault on Middle Meadow Walk.

A 19-year-old woman had been out with friends in the Cowgate and Niddry Street area and was returning home when she made her way through the Meadows.

As she reached Jawbone Walk, a male approached the victim from behind and knocked her to the ground before attacking her.

The male then made off from the area before a member of the public came to the woman’s aid.

Officers are now conducting various local enquiries to trace the suspect and anyone who can assist in identifying him is asked to come forward.

He is described only as being white and wearing dark clothing and a dark coloured hat.

Detective Chief Inspector Alwyn Bell said: “This has been a horrific attack on a young woman and she is understandably extremely distressed at this time.

“Specially trained officers are currently working alongside our relevant partner agencies to offer the victim all the necessary support and assistance she requires.

“This incident took place in an area that is often busy with joggers, dog walkers and other members of the public, regardless of the time of night and I would urge anyone who was in the Meadows on Saturday morning and remembers seeing anything suspicious to contact police immediately.

“We will have high-visibility police patrols deployed within the Meadows for the time being to offer reassurance to the public and to engage with anyone who may have information relevant to this enquiry.

“If you believe you can be of assistance to our investigation please approach one of these officers or call us on 101. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous report via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. “

A two goal win against Queen of the South would have seen Hibs leapfrog the Doonhamers into third place in the Championship this afternoon, but despite dominating throughout they were unable to breach the visitors defence and the hard fought encounter ended all square.

Head Coach Alan Stubbs was forced into making a number of changes with Mark Oxley, Dylan McGeough and Scott Robertson all missing through injury and Dominique Malonga away on international duty.

Matt Kennedy, watched by Everton manager Roberto Martinez and Alex Harris both started with Jake Sinclair returning to the bench.

Hibs started brightly and Matthew Kennedy’s cross picked found Jason Cummings but his header went over the bar.

Cummings hen produced a fierce drive from 30 yards which Queen of the South goalkeeper Zander Clark managed to parry away.

Whilst Hibs dominated possession, Queen of the South had the chance to score against the run of play when Kevin Holt set up Derek Lyle who fired wide of the post.

Clark then did well to save a powerful strike from Cummings at the near post before spilling a shot from Scott Allan which was cleared before Cummings could pounce.

Shortly after the restart Cummings had the chance to open the scoring but hammered the ball high and wide from the edge of the box.

Hibs continued to dominate but Stubbs’ side was unable to penetrate the Queens’ defence.

With time running out, David Gray did well to find substitute Paul Heffernan in the box, but the normally reliable striker blazed his shot over the bar and queen of the South held on to secure a share of the points.

Hibs: Perntreou, Gray, Hanlon, Fontaine, Harris (Sinclair 60’), Craig, Stevenson, Handling (Heffernan 60’), S. Allan, Kennedy, Cummings (Stanton 69’).  Substitutes not used:  Combe, Booth, L. Allan, Crane.

Queen of the South: Clark, Dowie, Duman, Higgins, Holt, McShane, Kerr, Carmichael, Russell (Kidd 75’), Lyle (Reilly 60’), Baird (Dzierzawski 84’). Substitutes not used: Atkinson, Dzierzawski, Fowler, D. Smith, A. Smith.

Referee: George Salmond.

Attendance: 10,069

Edinburgh art gallery showing art good enough for a pope?

Urbane Art Gallery on Edinburgh’s Jeffrey Street is exhibiting work by international artist Marta Czok, who was once commissioned to paint a triptych for Pope John Paul II. Her paintings are part of the gallery’s winter exhibition called XmArt which starts on November 22nd.

Alongside Marta’s work will be Edinburgh artist Paul Charlton, who has regularly exhibited at the RSA, and new work from gallery regulars Rosie Playfair, Louise Giblin, Niki Hare, Corinna Wagner and Colin Brown will also be part of the exhibition.

Urbane Art Gallery Director Tracey Robertson said:

”We are really excited about this, our first winter exhibition, and we have some cracking art to show. Marta’s work is full of symbolism and wry humour and is utterly charming, Paul’s pieces are emotive and full of impact, and our other artists never fail to delight, having been selling well over the summer. We are hoping that the public will enjoy our diverse and eclectic mix of art. There are some amazing Christmas presents to be had…”

The winter show runs from 23rd November to 31st December with a private view on the evening of 21st November. Anyone who would like an invitation to the private view can contact the gallery on info@urbaneart.co.uk

Pics are: ’A walk in the snow’ by Rosie Playfair and ’Future mothers-in-law’ by Marta Czok

Further information: Tracey Robertson, Urbane Art Gallery, 0131 556 8379

Submitted by Rosemary Walker

by Marco Biagi MSP for Edinburgh City Centre

I called him ‘Shadowfax’. With Barcelona’s ‘Bicing’ on-street municipal hire scheme closed to me as a non-local, he was the bike I hired from the extremely friendly Green Bikes in Plaça de George Orwell.

Amidst enjoying the culture, architecture and febrile political atmosphere of a recess break I had decided to put to the test what I’ve said – that if the city I was in had a network of off-road cycle paths I would be happy to get off my two feet and onto two wheels. But I also wanted a practical lesson in street design to take back to Edinburgh, and to experience the challenges faced by so many of the people who write to me, in a place whose infrastructure may (or may not) have been developed enough to cushion my unfamiliarity with the mode of transport.

My first leg was an 8km cycle northward from the city’s centre to a park in the lower part of the hills that surround Barcelona. Well, it should have been an 8km cycle. The moment the segregated path along the great boulevard of Ave Meridiana ended I was lost, and cycled in so many circles through a residential area I felt like I was on a fairground roundabout. After rejoining a main thoroughfare at the eyebrow-raisingly named Plaça de Karl Marx, a concrete homage to visions of automobile futures past, I reached my destination.

On the next leg I tried to do completely the opposite of what I’d done the last time but still managed to get lost at the same point, just in a different way. Shrugging, I followed the example of Newton’s apple and let gravity guide me downwards until reaching the waterfront. After a break for feeding and watering I was one of many taking the long, leisurely cycle along the series of artificial beaches that had been built for the 1992 Olympics and have now become an enduring part of the city’s seascape.

My final leg was successfully racing the hire shop’s opening hours back to where I’d started, with one accidental if scenic detour through the cruise ship-laden harbour. There was only one Euro in it if I returned Shadowfax the next day, but hey, I’m Scottish. I also needed the satisfaction of getting back on time, and by then frankly I definitely also needed a shower.

As someone who is fairly fit but hadn’t been on a bike in eight years, the segregated cycle lanes along Barcelona’s great boulevards suited me perfectly. The least substantial of barriers between myself and the rather energetic local drivers was a set of oversized cats eyes. I would rather have dismounted and walked than share a space with a ton of metal moving at forty miles per hour without some form of barrier between us – and a line of paint or different-coloured road surface never counts.

Could Edinburgh do this? While we’re noted more for narrow streets than great boulevards, there are many large main roads that feed into the city centre like tributaries into the Amazon. And our narrow streets are nowhere near as narrow as the ten-foot wide passages in the Ciutat Vella. I see no obstacle of engineering that would prevent Edinburgh doing likewise. Crucial for me though too as a nervous newbie were the junctions, where cyclists moved with the pedestrians rather than the motorists and remained off-road at all times.

One stark difference was that in Barcelona when the cycle paths were absent bikes were expected to cohabit on the pavements rather than the roads. Pedestrians did not seem fazed by cyclists on pavements, though this cyclist was often fazed by pedestrians, especially the thirty-strong pack of roller-bladers who came at me like TIE fighters in Luke’s final run on the Death Star. Cycle paths are built with money and concrete – this sort of relationship is only built with time and respect.

So, if Edinburgh somehow copied Barcelona’s infrastructure and on-street ‘Bicing’ hire scheme, would I start travelling by bike? In absence of also copying Barcelona’s also more extensive public transport network, possibly. The city’s warm weather may help its café culture, but for me would hinder a personal cycling culture. On those five uphill miles that broke me in (and almost broke me full stop) I was longing for a bit of Edinburgh haar and smirr. And that was in October. Topographically, cycling in Edinburgh and Barcelona at that point also seemed more similar than I had ever imagined. But the appeal for me of Barcelona’s network is not just its greater comprehensiveness in providing routes from where I would be to where I would want to be to but also what feels like a greater emphasis on wholesale separation from motor traffic than Edinburgh has put in place so far.

I left thinking that while the Netherlands and Denmark may the elder statesmen of cycling investment, under the Mediterranean sun Barcelona’s growing reputation is well-deserved. The Copenhagenize table regularly lists the Catalan capital as one of the new emerging cycling cities in Europe. But Barcelona’s network has come about because of determined action over less than decade by the city’s leaders – ‘Bicing’ only started in 2007. If Edinburgh wishes to follow there are lessons to learn. Just one thing though – a few more signposts, please.

For more information (and more photos than I had the foresight to take), see this excellent article from earlier this year by Robin Lovelace on the CTC blog.

If a peaceful transition of power from one leader to another is the sign of a mature democracy, then Scotland has grown up. This weekend the grand master Alex Salmond hands over to his able assistant Nicola Sturgeon. She’s been his understudy for the last seven years as the SNP has come to dominate Scottish politics. But what is Nicola Sturgeon like ? And will she take the SNP and Scotland in a different direction ?

The cartoonists have given us a picture of Alex Salmond as a large and cuddly panda, usually getting the better of his opponents. Nicola Sturgeon they’ve portrayed as a “nippy sweety”, one of those clever wee women from Glasgow with an annoyingly lot to say. She is indeed from the West, from Ayrshire, and she is undoubtedly clever. But what she has to say is delivered cheerfully, with precision and force but often with an ironic chuckle at the foolishness of the opposition.

Folk south of the border must see her as a Boadicea or Joan of Arc, determined to fight any foe and lead her people to freedom, if not next year, then in five or ten years time. She has refused to rule out another referendum on independence…when the time is right. Scots are more inclined to see her as “a lass o’ pairts” – self-made, from a humble background, lawyer and political activist from the start. She joined the SNP when she was 16 and after several tries, was eventually elected as an MSP for Glasgow Region and then Glasgow Govan.

Her sheer ability and application saw her rise quickly inside the party. She even put her name forward for the leadership before teaming up with Alex Salmond for his “second coming.” She is married to the party’s general secretary, Peter Murrell, a modest behind-the-scenes man who is strong on organisation and strategy.

A young-looking 44, Nicola Sturgeon allows the SNP to renew its image for the next generation. She successfully appealed to women and the young during the referendum campaign – bringing enough of them on board to come within touching distance of independence. Her own political philosophy was formed by opposition to Mrs Thatcher and it’s clear that greater “social justice” or equality will be a major part of her agenda.

Alex Salmond, at his final outing at first minister’s question time on Thursday, was asked what he thought were his greatest achievements in government. His choice was interesting – “free education” by which he meant no student fees, and free school meals for children in the first three years of primary school. I thought he might have mentioned standing up to the UK government’s austerity measures or the move towards renewable energy or creating more apprenticeships, or the lowest crime figures for 40 years. But no, he chose “social justice” measurers.

It will be interesting to see if the SNP can hold on to this traditionally Labour agenda as the Labour Party tries to re-build itself in Scotland under its soon-to-be-elected new leader.

It will be interesting to see, too, if the SNP can stay as united under Nicola Sturgeon as it did under Alex Salmond. Will she be able to find new talent and bring them into her team ? And will she connect with ordinary people, as Alex Salmond was able to do with his folksy, Burns-quoting style.

Nicola Sturgeon will be beatified this weekend at the SNP conference in Perth. She will be elected first minister at Holyrood on Tuesday, thanks to the SNP’s overall majority.

She takes the helm when the tide is running in the SNP’s favour. It’s riding high in the polls, party membership is at record levels (84,000, dwarfing every other party in Scotland). The economy is showing signs of recovery at last – figures out this week show unemployment down to 5.9 per cent and real wages increasing for the first time since the great crash.

But there are still more “austerity” cuts to come. Will Nicola Sturgeon be able to blame Westminster in the same way as Alex Salmond was able to do ? And will the home-rule negotiations over the winter produce a settlement which benefits the SNP or will it take the wind out of its sails ?

Just as Joan of Arc famously prayed for wind to take the French fleet down river to face the English invaders at Orleans, the newly sainted Nicola will be praying for a fair wind as the SNP sets out on its new journey.

The Tamdhu Tash Off Party will be held at Ruffians in Edinburgh. Victorian barbers will be offering clean shaves and a glass of Tamdhu to customers in exchange for a donation of £10 towards the Movember cause.

This event is for people aged 18+. If under 18s want to come along, they can however they can only take part in the clean shave and no discount will be given.

Date: 30th November
Time: 12pm-4pm
Location: Ruffians, 23 Queensferry Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4QS

Submitted by Emma Craig

Our Edinburgh Gin Club returns on 23rd November with a Gin and Cheese Pairing featuring the finest fromage from Edinburgh’s iconic cheesemonger, IJ. Mellis.

Each cheese will be married to a specially created gin tipple, ensuring gastronomic bliss for the entire congregation!

Perfect for inspiring festive digestifs and after-dinner nibbles, the afternoon of Edinburgh Gin and IJ. Mellis artisan cheeses will include:

– Four distinctive cheeses (including a Stilton and goat’s cheese) paired with four Edinburgh Gin libations
– The opportunity to try our festive new Christmas Edinburgh Gin with frankincense and myrrh botanicals
– A tour of the Edinburgh Gin Distillery
– Insights into the history and botanicals of Edinburgh Gin
– The opportunity to meet our Edinburgh Gin distillers

Date: Sunday 23rd November
Time: 13:30-15:30

Tickets: £25.00 plus £2.15 booking fee
Box Office: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-edinburgh-gin-club-gin-cheese-pairing-tickets-14217580165

Location: Edinburgh Gin Distillery, 1A Rutland Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2AD

Contact: info@edinburghgindistillery.com or 0131-656-2810

Notes: This event is for people aged 18+ only.

Submitted by Rebecca Harvey

Medieval music and historic tales are all on offer at Rosslyn Chapel this month, as part of the Chapel’s contribution to Scotland’s History Festival.

Today, during opening times, visitors can meet a medieval musician from Sir William St Clair’s court; Jim Tribble, our musician will be on site throughout the day to answer your questions and give you information about his medieval instruments. He will be playing the instruments at 11.20am, 1pm, 2.20pm and 3.20pm included within admission price for visiting Rosslyn Chapel.

On Tuesday 18 November, 7pm, To watch the bow dance…. will be a memorable concert featuring a single violin, dancing as it is played in the hands of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra assistant leader Tamas Fejes in an intense and emotive solo performance.

On Friday 28 November, 7pm, delve into some of the tales of the Chapel by the candle’s light. Further detail and prices are available at http://www.rosslynchapel.com or by calling 0131 440 2159.

All events at Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin, Midlothian
http://www.rosslynchapel.com

Submitted by Ian Gardner

Lord Provost’s message to the Scottish Rugby team

SNP to oppose UK plans on fracking

Crockart takes part in Parliament Week

Council pledges

New shop at Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, the Rt Hon Donald Wilson, is supporting the Scottish Rugby Team for their match against New Zealand on Saturday. The Lord Provost will be attending the event in his role as Lord Lieutenant – the Queen’s representative in Edinburgh – with members of the Royal family.

The Lord Provost, RT Hon Donald Wilson, said:  “As the competition continues, I wish Team Scotland the best of luck for Saturday’s rugby playoff on behalf of everyone in Edinburgh.  Following a fantastic performance against Argentina last weekend, I have high hopes for our national team as they play on Capital soil.

“Over 100 years ago, Murrayfield was home to the first ever rugby match between the All Blacks and Scotland in 1905. Saturday’s match will be the 30^th competition between the teams, and this year also marks 40 years since Edinburgh became twinned with the beautiful city of Dunedin.

“Edinburgh has long held ties with New Zealand and it is great to have the All Blacks in the city where the competition between the teams all began.”

Rugby fans heading to watch Scotland in the viagogo Autumn Tests 2014 this weekend are being advised to take note of traffic and travel information. Temporary road closures and parking restrictions will be in place in the Haymarket area for a number of hours on Saturday afternoon and evening.

***

Welcoming SNP plans to oppose UK plans to make fracking easier, Dr Richard Dixon, Director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said:

“The UK Government has ignored over 99% of responses to its consultation, and the objection of the Scottish Government, that the removal of people’s rights to object to fracking underneath their homes is simply unacceptable.

“We welcome the SNP’s plans to oppose sections of the UK Infrastructure Bill which would give the fracking industry carte blanche to drill wherever they like, and to leave toxic drilling and fracking chemicals behind.  It will be very interesting to see how Labour and LibDem MPs vote on these issues.

“Cameron and Osborne’s blinkered dash for gas risks putting the UK on course for climate catastrophe and endangers the health and wellbeing of communities across central and southern Scotland.  We urge the Scottish Government to go further and use their existing powers to ban all forms of unconventional fossil fuel extraction in Scotland.”

***

As part of Parliament Week 2014, Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart has visited Craigmount High School.

Mike ran a session with third year Modern Studies pupils at Craigmount High School where they discussed the role of an MP and what it is actually like to work in Parliament.

Parliament Week is a programme of events and activities that connects people with Parliament and democracy. Thousands of people from across the United Kingdom are taking part in a variety of activities including; historical walks, art exhibitions, online debates, panel discussions and Q&A’s.

The theme this year is ‘Do Democracy’ where young people are being encouraged to tweet, Facebook or Instagram the things that matter most to them.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“It is really encouraging to see pupils at Craigmount High School getting involved in politics. The pupils had a lot to say about the issues which matter most to them and it was great to hear them debating so passionately.

“For too long there has been a myth that young people are apathetic and don’t care about politics, however this myth was proved wrong when close to 100% of those under 18 who were eligible, registered to vote in the Scottish independence referendum.

“The pupils I met today asked some extremely thought provoking questions and the discussion was lively. It was great to be able to explain how varied and interesting my job can be, as this is something which is not often shown in the media.

“Parliament Week is an excellent initiative and I would urge all schools in my constituency to get involved and encourage their pupils to take part in #DoDemocracy.”

Christina Gordon S3 added:

‘’It was a good and valuable experience and made me more likely to engage  in the parliament as sometimes it can feel a bit distant for people our age.’’

Hamish Hartley S3 also added:

“It was a great insight into the life and workings of the parliament.”

***

When the Labour Group came to power with the SNP group in 2012, they were able to put into place their manifesto pledges. Now two and a half years into their five year term they are updating their progress with the 53 pledges. In his Leader’s Report Councillor Andrew Burns said:

***

A brand new store at Edinburgh Airport looks set to offer passengers an answer to all their luggage needs.

Hidden Haiti: Fourth World Art. Discover more about how Haitian artists recycle materials by turning them into beautiful artwork and homeware at this launch exhibition, and learn how Fourth World Art is supporting artisans to rebuild after the crippling 2010 earthquake. 1am-5pm, The Old Lab, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Free. Also open at same times on Sunday 16th November.

Amnesty International and Relief Theatre Present Even If We Lose Our Lives, exploring the difficulties faced by women in modern Afghanistan through the stories and words of Parween, founder of the only girls’ school in Laghman province, Manizha, the American-raised organiser of a women’s shelter, and Dr D, an anonymous gynaecologist operating in an unnamed province. Interviews were conducted by actor and human rights activist Christine Bacon. Each peformance will be followed by a short talk and Q & A session led by Amnesty activists and other guest speakers. All proceeds will go to Amnesty International. Please note: this play includes references to violence and domestic and sexual abuse. 8-9.15pm, Cairns Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £6/£5: book via Summerhall’s website or at the box office (0131 560 1581).

History Research: Understanding Language and Handwriting. In family history research you may come across challenging handwriting, Latin, Scots or antiquated English, as well as some unfamiliar terminology. Dr Bruce Durie, author of Scottish Genealogy and Documents for Genealogy and Local History, shows how to understand such documents. 11am-12 noon, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite or by calling 0131 242 8100. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Putting the leaves on the branches: Enriching your family tree. Join Dr Bruce Durie, author of Scottish Genealogy and star of BBC’s Digging Up Your Roots, to discover how to take your research further and enrich your family tree with more than just names, dates and places. 2-3pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite or by calling 0131 242 8100. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Tracing Your Scottish Ancestors: Pop-Up Family History Surgery. Scotland has the best-maintained records and facilities of any country in the world for undertaking family research. Visit the family history surgery and chat with the experts from Scotland’s largest family history centre, Scotland’s People. 10am-4pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free and unticketed. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Be part of the History of the Grassmarket: local artist Chris Rutterford will be incorporating faces of visitors and locals into a 64′ long outdoor mural depicting historic scenes from the area, including the hanging of Maggie Dickson in the 18th century. Have your photo taken by the artist to be included in the scene, watch him paint, and learn about the history of the area through his characterful storytelling. If you have a story to tell relating to the Grassmarket, come to the gazebo, where stories will be collected  to use for future history events and guides. 11am-4pm today and 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th and 30th November 2014, in Grassmarket’s historic central square. Free, no booking required.  Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

David Purdie: Sir Walter Scott’s Heart of Midlothian. Opening with the start of the Porteous Riots in 1736, The Heart of Midlothian is one of Scott’s most famous historical novels, featuring murder, madness and seduction. A new edition of the book has been expertly reworked for modern audiences by David Purdie. 3-4pm, The Saltire Society, 9 Fountain Close, 22 High Street. Tickets cost £5/£2.50 and can be booked via eventbrite. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Getting Started with Family History Research: Ken Nisbet of the Scottish Genealogy Society offers pointers for those beginning their family history research. Find out about the extraordinary resources held in the Society’s family history centre, with the opportunity to explore before and after the talk.  1-2pm or 3-4pm, Scottish Genealogy Society, 15 Victoria Terrace. Free but places are limited; book via eventbrite. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

SCRAN: Explore your heritage online. Find out how photographs, news stories, letters, maps, artefacts and oral histories can bring your heritage to life. Explore the places that your ancestors may have lived and worked. This presentation will offer a tour through SCRAN’s digital collections to sample some of the material on offer for family historians. 11.30am-12.30pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Rei Nakamura: piano, electronics and video. A programme of new works by Raquel Garcia Tomaz, Alberto Bernal and Christian Winther Christensen using electronics, movement and video to create an entirely new type of performance, both visually and aurally examining the interrelation of movement and sound, which are independent, but mutually supportive. 8pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

LGBT: Trans Remembrance Gathering. Annual memorial event in honour of all those killed through transphobic hatred and prejudice in the last year. Take part in reading names, contribute to some arts and crafts, or join in quietly in the space. 2-3.30pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact Jules Stapleton Barnes at jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or on 0131 523 1104.

Crime Prevention Initiative: police officers will answer your questions relating to crime prevention and distribute helpful leaflets. South Edinburgh Crime Prevention Partnership will be offering shed alarms and bike locks for sale. 2-4pm, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.

Adult Learners’ Voice: Have Your Say. Hear about Adult Learning in Edinburgh and have your say in shaping the future. 10am-12 noon, Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket. Refreshments served from 9.45am. To book your free place contact vicky.petrie@ea.edin.sch.uk or call 0131 558 8222. All learners welcome!

Morningside Farmers’ Market: fresh, local, seasonal goods direct from the producers. Meats, fish, vegetables, fruit, cheeses, baking, breads, preserves, jams, chutneys, confectionery, Continental treats, vegetarian foods, kitchen condiments, crafts and more. Hot refreshments available in the market or from The Merlin Pub and Kitchen next door. 9.30am-3.30pm, Merlin Pub & Kitchen car park (rear of Merlin), Morningside Road.

GENERATION Tours at Modern One: informal, discussion-led tours of the exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed.

Portrait Gallery Architecture Tour: monthly architecture tour of the magnificent Arts & Crafts building, designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. 2-2.45pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free, but places are limited and must be booked by calling 0131 624 6560.

Scottish Parliament Guided Tour: a great opportunity to enjoy a guided walking tour of the Scottish Parliament building and to find out more about how the Parliament works. 1.45-3pm, Scottish Parliament, Canongate. Free but places are strictly limited and must be booked in advance: contact Anne or Christine on 0131 458 5959 or email anne.livesey@ea.edin.sch.uk. Organised by South West Community Learning and Development Team, City of Edinburgh Council.

Bohemia Art, Craft and Vintage Christmas Fair: ‘bespoke Christmas shopping event’ – over 35 stalls, winter warmer cafe. 11am-4pm, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Free entry.

Grow Your Own Garden Workshops. A course of six-structured ‘grow your own’ workshops for beginners. Workshop 2: Getting Growing – sowing seeds and creating new plants from cuttings, bulbs and other plant parts. For ages 16+. 10am-12 noon (session is a repeat of the one held on Wednesday 12th November, so you should attend one or the other),  North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Road. Free, no booking required, but you are requested to stay for the whole two hour session, as the workshops are structured. Call 0131 315 2151 for more information.

St Cuthbert’s Christmas Fair: tombola, hampers, baking, preserves, cards, decorations, craft, bric a brac, Jack-and-Jill stall, guess the weight of the cake – come along, find some bargains for Christmas, and maybe win a prize!  10am-2pm, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, Lothian Road. £1 per person. Donations for stalls welcome between 9am and 4pm on Friday 14th November.

Rosy Blue Blues Band: one of Scotland’s most exciting blues bands – early blues through to rock, soul, modern classics and their own compositions. 9pm, Old Chain Pier, 32 Trinity Crescent.

Christopher Orr: The Beguiled Eye. Christopher Orr’s first solo show in Scotland, bringing together new and recent paintings, and featuring for the first time the artist’s remarkable sketchbooks. Orr’s oil paintings and watercolours offer enigmatic glimpses into other worlds where modern characters appear within expansive environments, laden with drama.The intriguing scenes derive from an appropriation of a vast range of visual materials, including National Geographic magazines, scientific manuals, 1950s snaps, art historical images and Super 8 films. Opening 12.30pm today, Talbot Rice Gallery, University of Edinburgh, Old College, South Bridge. Closes 14th February 2015. Free.

A man responsible for the brutal rape and murder of two young women from Edinburgh almost 40 years ago has been convicted in Scotland’s first double jeopardy trial.

Angus Sinclair was found guilty of raping and then killing Helen Scott and Christine Eadie, after the Crown presented conclusive forensic evidence carefully preserved since 1977.

Over the course of the five-week trial at the High Court in Livingston, the jury heard how Sinclair and his brother-in-law Gordon Hamilton (now deceased) met the 17-year-olds at the World’s End Pub on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile on 15th October 1977 before leaving the bar with the pair.

The following day, the teenagers’ bodies were found in separate locations within East Lothian; both had been bound, beaten, raped and strangled. One of the largest investigations in the history of policing in Scotland began to find the killers.

In 1977 the police had no access to the forensic techniques, which exist today and nor could they could have known that years later DNA would be discovered, never the less detectives and scientist meticulously set about recovering and preserving clothing and samples from the scenes.

Instead, they relied upon a sketch of the males last seen with Helen and Christine.

Detectives took statements from hundreds of members of the public. At the time there was no evidence to link any individual to the murders, however, officers took unprecedented steps to store DNA samples for future analysis.

In the late 1980s advances in DNA technology began to develop and the investigation was continually reassessed, leading to a full review in 1996. By 1997 detectives were able to confirm that DNA found on Helen Scott’s coat belonged to two different males. However, no match was found at the time and the case remained unsolved at the start of the 21st century.

A further sample taken from the same coat in April 2004 provided a positive match to Angus Sinclair who was at the time serving a life sentence for a range of sexual assaults that took place in Glasgow.

Sinclair was subsequently charged in connection with both murders and the trial began on 27th August 2007. However, by September the case had been abandoned after Judge Lord Clarke ruled there was insufficient evidence to proceed.

Once again all of the evidential samples and data were appropriately stored so that detectives could continue with their efforts to find justice for Helen and Christine.

Legislative change to the Double Jeopardy Law in November 2011 allowed police to once again present evidence to the Crown Office in relation to the World’s End murders and pursue Sinclair for prosecution.

Further scientific advances meant that forensically only four people could be linked to the crime scene – Sinclair, Hamilton and the two teenagers.

Police Scotland has welcomed the conviction following almost four decades of investigation.

Detective Chief Superintendent Gary Flannigan from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team said: “Today’s verdict is the culmination of 37-years of dedicated police work and continued partnership working alongside the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

“The World’s End murders investigation is a remarkable enquiry. Not only because it is the first where a conviction has been secured following the Double Jeopardy legislation, but also because of the exemplary level of foresight demonstrated by police and forensic scientists during the initial stages of the investigation.

“Over the years we have become accustomed to reviewing historic enquiries from this period and have realistic expectations around the likelihood that we’d be actually able to find the recovered clothing never mind have any hope that it would have been stored and retained in the amazing condition that everything in this case has been.

“Those officers and scientists from 1977 and continuing through the generations are true heroes, for without their care and attention, without their absolute determination to preserve the clothing and samples for some development they could not have dreamt off, then this historic moment could not have happened.

“The actions and the determination of everyone over the years to fight for justice for Helen’s and Christine’s families is ultimately what has led to this moment.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved with World’s End investigation during its 37-year duration.

“My thoughts are with both victims’ families at this time. They have all shown such great dignity and strength during what has been the most horrendous periods of times. I thank them for their continued support of our endeavours to bring Helen and Christine’s killers to justice.

“Nothing can ever bring either of the girls back, but it is my sincere hope that today’s verdict will finally deliver the closure that both families have been craving for the past four decades.”

Former Detective Superintendent Allan Jones said: “It brings a great level of satisfaction to see this verdict rendered. The families of Christine Eadie and Helen Scott have waited 37 years to see justice, and today that has finally been delivered and I hope this will bring them a degree of closure and solace.

“I worked on this case, at varying levels, for 35 years. It was a case that got under the skin of everyone who worked on the enquiry, and indeed, everyone who worked within the former Lothian and Borders Police force.

“After the disappointment of 2007, it brings a degree of personal and professional satisfaction to see a positive result.

“Angus Sinclair is a dangerous man who has several convictions for murder and sexual assault. He should never again be at liberty.”

Speaking following the sentencing of Angus Sinclair at the High Court in Livingston for the murder of two teenagers in 1977, Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said:

“This case came to court after the Scottish Government brought forward the Double Jeopardy (Scotland) Act, which was unanimously passed by Parliament. Double jeopardy is a centuries old principle of Scots law which prevents a person being tried twice for the same offence, but in this day and age, there should be no escape from justice.

“We modernised the law, with safeguards, to make it fit for the 21st century. If new evidence emerges which shows the original ruling was fundamentally flawed, it should be possible to have a second trial. And trials which are tainted by threats or corruption should also be re-run.

“We have acted in the interests of Scottish justice, victims and their families and we hope this news brings some comfort to the families of the victims of these terrible crimes.”

If your home is like mine, with every shelf sagging under the weight of reading matter, you may find it hard to imagine that some children have no books at all.  These children aren’t in far off Third World countries; they live in Edinburgh just like us, but they have probably never been to a library, much less a bookshop.

Many of us find huge comfort in reading when the world gets too much; for these children, the desperate circumstances of their lives can be too much every single day, but they have no escape, no other places to turn to. The Blackwell’s Giving Tree is a way in which you can reach out to these young people, and offer them not only the magic of a book, but a book they have asked for themselves, be it a by specific author, on a particular subject, or just ‘A book that I can take with me on an adventure.’ (This is the wording of one of this year’s tags).

Blackwell’s began this project seven years ago – sales manager James Anderson remembers a tiny tree in a flowerpot with a few tags attached. The response was enormous, the tags were gone in just a few days – and since then the tree, and the project, have grown and grown; ‘it felt’ says James, (with seasonally-appropriate imagery) ‘like an experiment that just snowballed.’

Yesterday, Edinburgh author Nicola Morgan launched the 2014 appeal; there are over 300 tags this year, each of them asking for a special book for a special child. As Nicola says, ‘These children may not receive anything else this Christmas. How can you say no?’

The idea is simple; you read the tags, choose one (or lots!), find the books that the tags request and buy them. Blackwell’s keeps them and kindly gift wraps them for you, before passing them on to the relevant charities – this year these include Edinburgh Women’s Aid, CHAS, Citadel Youth Centre, Edinburgh Young Carers Project and Action for Children. If a child or young person has asked for a type of book rather than a named title, Blackwell’s staff are there to help you find something they know will fit the bill. If you can’t get into the store, you can phone or email the children’s department, and once the other Blackwell’s stores are ready (Edinburgh is of course ahead of the game…) you should also be able to make your donation online via the website.

We all know about running, yoga and herbal tea, but ‘one of the best ways to relieve stress’ says Nicola ‘is to give’ , and she should know, she’s written a book about it (The Teenage Guide to Stress, 2014) – isn’t that great? No more dragging yourself to the gym or pretending you’d rather have some camomile concoction than a strong shot of caffeine and a cake – all you have to do is while away a nostalgic hour in Blackwell’s, hand over your credit card, and come away feeling like serenity itself. Just do it quickly, before all the tags are gone and you end up having to endure something much more painful.

The Giving Tree is in Blackwell’s now; if you can’t find it, you’re not in the Children’s Department – ask at the desk. If you would like to participate but can’t call in, email kirsty.smith@blackwell.co.uk or call her on 0131 622 8225.

You can also follow the appeal on Twitter @GivingTreeEdin and on Facebook.

The Sick Kids Friends Foundation (SKFF) are calling on big-hearted Scots to help their oldest and most esteemed volunteer reach another fundraising milestone by the end of this year.

94-year-old Tom Gilzean collects for the children’s charity and a number of other worthy causes round-the-clock on the Royal Mile. He has to date raised more than £100,000 for the charity.

This year the war veteran has continued his mammoth efforts, collecting £45,000 for a number of charities close to his heart, however the kind-hearted fundraiser is determined to hit the £50,000 mark by the end of the year.

Tom said: “I’m out collecting in all weathers, which can very cold and rainy but I love it. I’m delighted that this is the most I’ve ever collected in one year and I would like to donate £25,000 to the Sick Kids if I reach the £50,000 mark.

“Nothing will stop me from fundraising and I’ve already signed up to be a volunteer next year. This gives me something to look forward to as I approach 95 years old. It’s so important to me that I keep raising money. I’ve been fundraising for 80 years now and I’m determined to keep going until I’m 100. I want to say thank you to everyone who gives so generously – I couldn’t do it without you.”

The money raised by Tom is used to provide world-class equipment such as mini image intensifier scanning equipment worth £53,000 and extra family-friendly services including art therapy and parent accommodation at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children (RHSC) in Edinburgh. Tom also supports several causes to help injures soldiers, pensioners and disabled children.

The SKFF are asking others to step-up and help Tom raise the final £5,000 required to cross his fundraising finish line by 31st December. Sick Kids supporters can back Tom by donating via his first ever online fundraising page.

Maureen Harrison, chief executive of the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, said: “Tom has been one of our greatest supporters for many years and we’re overwhelmed that come rain, shine and even illness Tom continues to work so hard to raise funds for a number of great causes including the Foundation.

“We think Tom deserves to take a break from his tireless campaigning and would love to see as many as people as possible make an online donation to help this legendary volunteer reach yet another ambitious milestone.”

To help Tom raise £50,000 by 31 December 2014 visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TomGilzean.

Submitted by Corrie Campbell

Police in Midlothian have carried out a post-mortem examination on two elderly people, whose bodies were found within a property in Royal Court, Penicuik on Monday, November 10.

There does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding either individual’s death, however further forensic inquiries are still to be carried out.

In line with routine practice a report has been forwarded to the Procurator Fiscal.

Police  are appealing for witnesses after two men were assaulted and robbed in the Capital.

The incident happened around 9.40pm yesterday in Breadalbane Street.

A 21-year-old and 19-old were sitting within a car awaiting a friend when three men approached the vehicle.

Two of the suspects produced knives and threatened the pair, while the third suspect, who was in possession of a metal pole searched the car for valuables.

Both victims were struck to the head with the pole during the robbery before the men responsible made off from the scene with a number of their personal belongings. However, neither required medical attention.

Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

The suspects are all described as being white, 25-30-years-old, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 9ins tall with slim builds and wearing dark hooded tops and dark trousers.

Detective Constable Graham McIlwraith said: “The victims were taken by surprise when the suspects approached their car and produced weapons before robbing them of their personal possessions.

“Thankfully, though, neither of them were injured and we are now conducting local enquiries to trace the men responsible.

“Anyone who was in or around Breadalbane Street on Thursday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately.

“We would also request that anyone who recognises the description of the suspects, or who has any further information relevant to this investigation, gets in touch as soon as possible.”

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

A 33 year old man has been arrested and charged with assault to severe injury after a 28 year old man was found seriously assaulted at Northview Court on Saturday.

He has also been charged with a separate and unconnected serious assault that took place on Elm Row on 28^th October.

The man is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today.

Police have charged a 24-year-old man following a serious sexual assault on a 28 year old woman on a path near Links Place in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The area was cordoned off most of yesterday as forensic officers looked for clues.

Detectives also appealed for witnesses to the attack.

A Police Scotland spokesman said the man scheduled to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.

It is a well-known fact that taxi fares here in the capital are higher than in the west of Scotland, and it looks likely that they are to rise further if the council adopts its officers’ recommendations next week. But the fare structure is to be simplified particularly over the Christmas period.

General fares are set to rise in line with inflation by 2.1%.

It used to be the case that there was a rise at the end of December, but the advisers to Edinburgh Council, the firm Halcrow felt this was too complicated and have proposed a new simpler system to come into effect next year.

The survey into the taxi fare system cost the council £17,000 which included a survey of 500 residents, two meetings with the taxi trade, and consultation with Police Scotland, council officers and other groups. This is not an additional cost, but contained within the sum already set aside for it.

The proposal is that between 24 – 27 December and 31 December to 2 January fares will increase with a starting fare of £3.60 which is £1.50 higher than the normal daytime fare at other times of the year.

The proposed new fare table is reproduced for you below. If agreed this will come into effect in January 2015. Until then the existing fare table continues to apply with a starting fare of £2.10 under the lowest tariff which rises by 25p after each additional 188metres travelled or 40 seconds of waiting time.

The council last looked at fares in the summer of 2013, and must examine them again now as it has a duty to review fares every 18 months. If any taxi driver is disgruntled about the proposed rise they have a right of appeal against the decision by raising the matter with the Scottish Traffic Commissioner.

In addition to the fare increases proposed for next year the council are also likely to approve the installation of cameras in taxis which it is thought will protect passengers and drivers, although the original demand came from taxi drivers.

It will be for the taxi drivers to deal with data protection issues, and the plan is for cameras to record only what happens inside the taxi and not to record anything in the streets outside. It is specifically provided within the proposals that any images must not be used on social media outlets.

Research showed that 62.2% of the public are happy with daytime fares, although not just as many are content with the night time fares. What do you think? Are taxi fares here in the capital too high?

http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/New-taxi-fares-Dec-2014.pdf

A new exhibition begins today at Holyrood Palace. This exhibition of Italian art will be shown in the Queen’s Gallery and tickets are from £6.50.

A good thing about going to the Palace of Holyroodhouse is that if you get your ticket converted into a 1-year pass you can use it repeatedly without further charge for a whole year. This is true for all properties in the Royal Collection which includes Britannia here in Edinburgh.

The Royal Collection describe the artist on their website:

“He was one of the most innovative artists of the Italian Baroque.  Yet Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (1609–1664) was also a violent and impetuous man, who was repeatedly in court for assault, allegedly attempted to throw his sister off a roof, destroyed his own work in front of powerful patrons, and was forced to flee Rome in mysterious circumstances.  The turbulence that characterised his life overshadowed his artistic brilliance, and Castiglione struggled to achieve the recognition that he deserved.  This first exhibition in Scotland dedicated to Castiglione brings together around 100 drawings and prints, and aims to position the artist in his rightful place as one of the greatest creative figures of the Baroque.”

Tickets and visitor information: www.royalcollection.org.uk or +44 (0)131 556 5100.

Castiglione: Lost Genius

The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse
14 November 2014 – 8 February 2015

Spanish Fine Foods and Gifts Open Day: join El Olivo olive oil company for a glass of wine, and taste the oils and other Spanish delicacies. Gifts, oils, chorizos, tapenades spices, antipasti, rice, vinegars and much more! Plus Spanish wines from Calduero Importers, jewellery, baskets, cashmere ponchos and nutritional advice. 11am -9pm (drop in), 1 Dalrymple Crescent. 10% of takings will be donated to local cancer charity itsgood2give. For more information call El Olivo on 0131 668 4751 or email info@elolivo-olive-oil.com Hasta luego!

Caesura #27: Goodnight Press. One of a series of events exploring experimental writing and performance through stripped-back, often anarchic, perfomances. This month’s event features Belfast-born writer and critic Maria Fusco, London-based experimental poet Jennifer Cooke, sound poet and Dada scholar David Hopkins and found poetry duo Ed Smith and Thomas MacColl. For ages 12+. 8-10pm  (doors open 7.30), Demonstration Room, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book via Summerhall’s website or at the box office (0131 560 1581).

Jenni Calder and Sir Walter Scott’s Waverley: a new edition celebrating the 200th anniversary of what is widely regarded as the first historical novel in the western tradition. Come along to hear Jenni Calder discuss the themes of Waverley and her reworking of the text for modern readers. 3-4pm, Scotland’s People Centre, New Register House, 3 West Register Street. Free tickets should be booked via eventbrite. Part of Previously….Scotland’s History Festival.

Amnesty International and Relief Theatre Present Even If We Lose Our Lives, exploring the difficulties faced by women in modern Afghanistan through the stories and words of Parween, founder of the only girls’ school in Laghman province, Manizha, the American-raised organiser of a women’s shelter, and Dr D, an anonymous gynaecologist operating in an unnamed province. Interviews were conducted by actor and human rights activist Christine Bacon. Each peformance will be followed by a short talk and Q & A session led by Amnesty activists and other guest speakers. All proceeds will go to Amnesty International. Please note: this play includes references to violence and domestic and sexual abuse. 8-9.15pm tonight and 15th November, Cairns Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £6/£5: book via Summerhall’s website or at the box office (0131 560 1581).

Storytime: 10.30am today and every Friday, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace.

Edinburgh University Singers: Parry Blest Pair of Sirens, Parry I was glad, Stanford Magnificat Op.164, Finzi Part Songs. Conductor and organist: John Kitchen. 1.10pm, McEwan Hall, Teviot Place. Free and unticketed.

LGBT Women’s Wellbeing Group: Feeling Good. An opportunity to learn about – and try out – relaxation techniques and adrenalin boosters that can make us feel good about ourselves. 2-4.30pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. Contact alison@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0131 652 3283 for more information or to be added to the group’s email list.

Edinburgh College of Art Friday Lecture Series: Michelle Sank. Sank is a photographer whose work reflects a preoccupation with the human condition, encompassing issues around social and cultural diversity. Free and open to all: for details of time and location contact ECA.

Bookbug: 30 minutes of rhymes and songs for very young children. 2.30pm, Corstorphine Library, 12 Kirk Loan.

Macular Society: Macular Degeneration (loss of central vision). If you have MD or know someone who does, drop in for an informal chat and coffee with others who have the same condition and learn more – don’t worry on your own, join the group for friendly support, information and help. 10.30am-12 noon today and on the second Friday of each month, Falcon House, 91 Morningside Road, EH10 4AY.

The Hare and the Tortoise: Recitals for Wrigglers. A concert for babies and toddlers. 10.30am, Charles Smith Room, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road. Tickets £5 for one adult and one child, £2.50 for  each additional child.

Scottish Fair Trade Forum Fair Trade Awards Ceremony and Exhibition Launch: an evening of awards and culture. Browse the stalls, taste Equal Exchange’s new hot chocolate, be the first to hear who this year’s award winners are (awards presented at 6.30pm), and view the Fairtrade Foundation’s photography exhibition Fairtrade at 20: The Power of You. The exhibition will then run in the Chaplaincy Centre until 21st November. 6-8pm, Chaplaincy Centre, University of Edinburgh, 1 Bristo Square.

The Transfer of Science and Philosophy Across Religious Boundaries in the Middle Ages: Professor Charles Burnett of the Warburg Institute, London, one of the world’s leading scholars working on the history of science in the Islamic World, will deliver this special lecture exploring what happens when a scientific or philosophical work is translated from one religious culture to another, specifically from pagan Greece to Islamic Arabic and from Islamic Arabic to Christian Latin culture. 6-8pm, King Khalid Building, Royal College of Surgeons, Hill Square. Free tickets should be booked via eventbrite. For more information contact rosie.mellor@ed.ac.uk.

Quiz Aid! come and have fun and test your knowledge at this Christian Aid fundraiser, and help people in the world’s poorest communities work their way out of poverty. Come with a ready-made team of 4-6 people, or come on your own and join a team on the night. Enjoy a glass of Fair Trade wine or juice. Donations for bottle stall much appreciated. 7.30pm, The Walpole Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral, Palmerston Place. £5 per person, no charge for children.

Indian Encounters: a new exhibition exploring the changing relationships between Great Britain and India during the 18th and 19th centuries through the lives of two men with very different experiences of British Imperial rule, Captain Archibald Swinton and Maharaja Duleep Singh. Duleep Singh became the first resident Sikh in Britain after he, at the age of 10, had to surrender the Sikh Punjab and all his treasures to the East India Company.  Archibald Swinton served in the East India Company’s army at the beginning of its military expansion into India. 18th century miniature paintings and  19th century jewellery, plus Casualty of War, a contemporary work completed in the miniaturist tradition by artists The Singh Twins, reflecting on their personal view of Duleep Singh’s life and their own Sikh heritage in Britain today. 10am-5pm from today, Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free. Closes 1st March 2015.

The Travelling Gallery: GENERATION TG – a group exhibition including five artists working in a range of media, focusing on what it is like to be a contemporary visual artist in Scotland and including a film of artists talking about their work to pupils from Edinburgh schools. 1.30-4pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road.

The Fine Art Society of Edinburgh: Derek Clarke MBE RSA 1912-2014: Portraits of Rocks – Eighty Years of Landscape Painting. The first major exhibition of landscape paintings by the late Derek Clarke to be shown since the artist’s death in February at the age of 101. Inspired by Scottish and Irish landscapes and painted over a period of 80 years, the 25 paintings in this exhibition had, until recently, sat undisturbed in the artist’s Stockbridge studio. Clarke studied at the Slade School of Art (1931-35) and taught at Edinburgh College of Art for 30 years, retiring in 1978. His pupils there included Elizabeth Blackadder, Barbara Rae, John Bellany and George Donald. 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, 11am-2pm Saturday, Bourne Fine Art, 6 Dundas Street,