Edinburgh woman is wheely excited about video message from Irish star Daniel O’Donnell in support of her dream wedding day for charity

Die-hard Daniel O’Donnell fan June Reynolds was speechless after receiving a video message from the Irish star in support of her fundraising efforts for a charity that has helped her to live an independent life.

The go-getting 60 year old who has cerebal palsy is doing her very own sponsored ‘walk’ for health and wellbeing charity, the Thistle Foundation, today.

The Edinburgh Reporter was there to see her being sent on her way with cheers from Edinburgh’s only seaside primary school – Towerbank Primary School – who filed out to watch June leave on her challenging sponsored trip in her wheelchair.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXLsdTZU9KM]

June has been amazed by the support she has received from everyone over the past few months – but it was a video message from Daniel O’Donnell, Irish singer and television presenter, that left her speechless.

June, who was born in Musselburgh, will take on the two mile challenge along with her bridesmaids, who will also be dressed up in their finest, and is looking forward to being waved off by the local pupils.

It will be the first time June has ever worn a wedding dress. Big hearted June decided to make a dream come true and give something back to the Thistle Foundation, the Edinburgh based charity that has helped her for over 16 years.

Thanks to Thistle’s support June now lives in her own home within the charity’s housing estate in Craigmillar after years of living in supported accommodation.

The bride and her team of three bridesmaids will undertake the two mile challenge from Noble Seaside Centre in Portobello to the Ship inn at Musselburgh.

June, who has been in a wheelchair all her life and is determined to live her life to the full, said: “The sponsored walk is something that I really want to achieve this year. Thistle has been great and there is always someone there to help. They have been with me on my journey and now I can do something for them.

“I’ve never had the opportunity to wear a wedding dress so I really wanted to put one on. And I thought it would make people laugh!”

The ‘wedding party’ was made up of June’s support workers. June’s family and friends have been helping her to adapt the wedding dress so she can wear it.

Kerryn Kirkpatrick, Head of Communications at the Thistle Foundation, said: “We’re delighted that June is undertaking this challenge to support Thistle. It will be a great achievement for her and the money raised will help us to continue our vital work in making sure people living with long term conditions receive the support they need.

She added: “Two miles is a big challenge for June as she will have to control her wheelchair for at least an hour which takes a lot of concentration and hard work. We know she can do it and we wish her all the best. We will be there as guests on her big day!”

You can support June’s challenge by making a donation via her fundraising page – www.everydayhero.co.uk/event/junesevent

Duty: local author Joan Rowe talks about her book, ‘ an epic story about love, loyalty and the winds of war.’ 6pm, Far From The Madding Crowd bookshop, 20 High Street, Linlithgow. The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about Joan’s earlier appearance at Morningside Library can be found here.

Easel Sketching in the Gallery: inspired by the Titian exhibition and working from a costumed figure. 2-4pm, Scottish National Gallery, (Main Floor of the Gallery) The Mound. No booking required.

St Mary’s RC Cathedral Bicentenary Lecture: Sir Tom Devine OBE ‘Catholics in Scotland: The Silent Revolution 1960-present.’ 7.30pm, St Mary’s RC Cathedral, York Place. Free, but tickets should be obtained in advance from the Cathedral Office on 0131 556 1798 or by emailing monica.davidson@virginmedia.com

Bring a Bear Bug: special bear-themed bookbug session featuring bear stories, rhymes and movement! 10.30-11.30am, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court. Bring your own teddy!

STILL: new works by Deb Marshall and Arran Rahimian. 11am-5pm from today until 14th September 2014, closed 8th & 9th September. Patriothall Gallery, 10 Patriothall, off Hamilton Place, Stockbridge.

Eco-Kidz: turn recycling into crafty, sellable items. Learn a variety of skills in these fun sessions including art, design, craft, marketing and retailing. The group will eventually go on to sell items made in the sessions. 1.45-3.15pm, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Free.  More information here.

Napier University Campus Tours: view the facilities and chat with Napier’s Student Ambassadors about life at the university. Tours will start simultaneously at 2pm at each of Napier’s three campuses, Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill.   Places must be booked in advance: click here for booking form.

Feely Friday: explore real and replica objects from the fascinating handling collections of the museum. From Vikings and Victorians to all sorts of animals, mammoths, meteorites and more! What will you get to grips with? 1.30-4.30pm today and every Friday until 19th December 2014, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street (check information screens on the day to find the location.) Free drop-in event: children must be accompanied by an adult.

Karaoke Club: if you’re bored with the TV on a Friday night, why not experience some real live Craigmillar entertainment while boosting your confidence and developing your vocal cords? 7-10pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. £1 per person.

Food Co-Op: buy cheap, quality food from Green City (Scottish Wholefood Collective Warehouse.) 3-6pm, Forest Cafe, Lauriston Place.

Opera at Rosslyn Chapel 

Clean up on the beach

Ryder Cup

HMS Edinburgh

M & S fundraising

An international operatic singing star is coming home to Midlothian to perform at Rosslyn Chapel for Midfest 2014.

Iain Paton, who is originally from Mayfield, is an internationally acclaimed opera singer who shot to fame replacing Plàcido Domingo as tenor soloist in Lloyd Webber’s Requiem in Australia, New Zealand and Norway.

Some of his other singing career highlights include; TAMINO Magic Flute and SHEPHERD Tristan und Isolde for Scottish Opera, as well as recording the role of EURIMACHOS in Dallapiccola’s Ulisse for the BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Andrew Davis.

Now, the singing sensation is to take centre stage in the iconic Chapel, which is part of this year’s Midfest – Midlothian’s own arts and music festival.

The intimate one-off performance will take place in the candle-lit setting of the chapel where the singer will be joined by The Edinburgh Kevock Choir.

Ian Gardener, Director of Rosslyn Chapel, said: “It’s great to have Rosslyn Chapel included in the Midfest programme for 2014, following the success of last year’s event. The acoustics in the Chapel are renowned and this looks set to be an unforgettable evening of music.”

The concert will take place on Saturday 13 September at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £15 for concessions and are available on: www.rosslynchapel.com or in person from the Chapel.

There are more than 60 events going on across Midlothian for Midfest 2014 which runs from Saturday 6 September to Sunday 14 September. Get your tickets here: http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/midfest-6764622193

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The UK’s leading marine charity says it hopes people who love the coast around Scotland will take part in a nationwide beach clean event which includes clean-ups all the way down the Scottish east coast but especially Portobello. Click here to register as a volunteer to help clean up Portobello Beach.

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) runs regular beach cleans around the UK which this year will culminate in the Great British Beach Clean over the weekend of the 19^th-22^nd September.

MCS says it hopes to get a record number of people cleaning beaches around the UK during its Great British Beach Clean weekend and is looking for volunteers in Scotland.

Tom Bell, MCS Campaigns Manager, says the event hopes to return many of Britain’s beaches to their halcyon days of the 50’s and 60’s, before we became a throw away society resulting in thousands of pieces of litter, including vast amounts of plastic, along every kilometre of the UK’s coastline.

“Our domestic habits over the last 50 years or so have resulted in dirty beaches. We throw more stuff away than ever. Plastic in the marine environment may take hundreds of years to break down and it washes up or is blown onto beaches in bits from micro pieces to larger chunks.

We flush stuff down the loo we shouldn’t, and that ends up in our water ways and then our beaches. We want to see people turning out to clean up their favourite or local beach during our Great British Beach Clean weekend – please don’t turn your back out beaches.”

There are beach clean events in Scotland from Aberdeenshire to Angus and Edinburgh to East Lothian. The full list can be found at www.mcsuk.org.

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The Ryder Cup was in Edinburgh yesterday. Did you catch a glimpse of it? We have photos and video here.

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The Council commissioned PWC to carry out an economic impact study for HMS Edinburgh to be used as a floating museum in Edinburgh. You can read the study below. The council have now decided it is beyond their means.

http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/06_03_HMS_Edinburgh_Final_Report.pdf

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M&S Edinburgh has raised the sum of £5,139.58 for Care and Repair Edinburgh; the store’s chosen Charity of the Year.

Over the last year, the store’s fundraising efforts have involved employees who took part in a sponsored walk, a bungee jump and a silent auction.

Each year, M&S stores around the country select one charity to support for the full year, hosting fundraising events with customers and employees.

Care and Repair Edinburgh is an independent charity offering advice and assistance to people who are older and/or have disabilities. They provide a range of practical services to help people repair, improve or adapt their homes so that they can live independently in their own homes in comfort for as long as possible.

Jenny McPartlin, M&S Edinburgh Store Manager, said: “Each year we commit to working with a local cause and this year we have been working closely with Care & Repair Edinburgh as it offers a great source of support for people throughout the city.

“We would like to thank all of our customers who have helped support our fundraising efforts over the last year and we hope that the funds raised go some way towards helping the charity continue their great work.”

Employees from M&S Edinburgh were also recently invited to the grand opening of Care and Repair’s new premises, at Osborne Terrace, Edinburgh.  The plaque was unveiled by Alex Neil MSP and was attended by Eddie Thomson and Alison Barbour from the store’s Business Involvement Group.

One of the Capital’s leading hotels has been shortlisted for an international design award following a £4.2m transformation earlier this year.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre – located on Bread Street – has been shortlisted for top honours at the Restaurant and Bar Design Awards.

Following initial judging, the hotel’s Bread Street Brasserie and Monboddo bar have been listed as finalists alongside venues from London, the USA and Australia.

Opened in March 2014, the hotel, bar and restaurant transformation was project managed and is operated by Redefine|BDL Hotels while the interiors were designed and created by Glasgow and London-based ICA.

Ronald Little, general manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre, said: “Since we launched in March this year, our guests and visitors have been extremely complimentary about the quality and unique design of the hotel, Bread Street Brasserie and Monboddo bar.

“To be shortlisted for this fantastic accolade alongside some of the world’s top bars and restaurants is a real honour in itself.”

Ross Morrow, chief technical officer of Redefine|BDL Hotels, said: “DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre is a truly unique hotel with a wonderful design and vibrant atmosphere. It has set a high standard among other venues in the city and is clearly finished to a world class standard. We look forward to the winners being announced on 25 September.”

Almost a year after it was here with the two Ryder Cup captains on its way to Gleneagles the Ryder Cup is back in town today.

Earlier at the Omni Centre we met up with officials from VisitScotland and the Ryder Cup to find out what it means to Scotland to have the golf tournament here this year.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxUanS1tGNA&w=420&h=315]

Meantime get along to the Omni Centre today to take a photo with the cup.

The Ryder Cup Trophy is visiting ‘the four corners of Scotland’ on an Official Trophy Tour, bringing the iconic trophy to the doorsteps of fans and members of the public across Scotland. The first stop for the world-famous trophy will be Edinburgh’s OMNI Centre today.

The launch event at Edinburgh’s OMNI Centre will also incorporate the unveiling of a large-scale installation welcoming The Ryder Cup back to Scotland. The striking image of one of Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ – a Golden Eagle – carrying the iconic Ryder Cup trophy ‘back to Scotland’, will adorn the exterior of The OMNI Centre in Edinburgh until the end of September.

During the day, there will be an opportunity for the general public to get a picture next to The Ryder Cup Trophy.

The trophy will then, travelling by helicopter on a week-long tour, take in the nation’s spectacular scenery at the most Northern, Eastern, Southern and Western courses participating in the ClubGolf programme. The wider legacy of The 2014 Ryder Cup is also important with participating courses also being chosen for their tourism and environmental connections.

VIDEO HERE SOON!

Police in Edinburgh confirmed this morning that a 21-year-old man was arrested and charged in the city earlier today in connection with a rape which took place in the Swanfield Industrial Estate area of Leith on Saturday morning.

A report is being submitted to the Procurator Fiscal and the man is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court tomorrow (Friday).

If you are out at Edinburgh Airport you may be forgiven for rubbing your eyes in disbelief. There really will be Mercedes cars racing down the tarmac. But it is all for a good cause.

Aeroplanes are not the only machines taking off at the Edinburgh Airport today as some of the world’s fastest cars will be hitting the runway for ‘Race the Runway’ – a charity drag race raising funds for the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow. The cars were spotted this morning at the Dakota Hotel – perhaps they need to spruce up their parking skills?

The event, which invites members of the public to pay £300 for the opportunity to race their high-performance cars on the 1,800 m auxiliary runway, is staged as a series of heats throughout the day, with the fastest models progressing to each successive round. Last year, the finalists released speeds of up to 180 mph as they competed against the clock.

As the sponsor of this exciting event, Mercedes-Benz will also be heading to Edinburgh with seven of its most powerful AMG models in tow. Among them will be the A 45 AMG, the new 360 hp GLA 45 AMG, the C 63 AMG Black Series, the SL 63 AMG Roadster, the E 63 AMG S Estate and the mighty SLS AMG Black Series.

Also tearing up the tarmac will be the iconic Silver Arrow MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 W03 Formula One car – last raced to victory by Nico Rosberg in the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix. Piloted on the day by Sky Sports Presenter Anthony Davidson, spectators will witness the full power of the magnificent V8 engine, developing up to 750 hp, as it powers the 600 kg vehicle up the runway.

“We’re delighted to be back at Race the Runway,” said Rob Halloway, Communications and Events Director Mercedes-Benz UK.  “It’s great fun and a real privilege to thunder along the tarmac at take-off speeds in a car – and of course it’s all perfectly legal! But best of all this remarkable day raises awareness and funds for a terrific cause.”

Big Issue Seller John White died in the Western General Hospital on Monday following a ‘cancer related illness’, as reported in the Big Issue. 

He was a one-off and we met him earlier in the year when filming the Lord Provost who was being shown by the expert how to sell the magazine on the street.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X1DiqOSEx0?list=UUpyjaNvEF_ryiKTJ6QxCkIA]

The Lord Provost, RT Hon Donald Wilson, said: “Earlier this year I was a guest Big Issue vendor for a day, and I was fortunate enough to meet with John and speak with him about life selling the magazine. I am very sorry to hear the news of his passing.

“It is clear that John’s spirit boosted Big Issue sales in the Meadows, and through his role he raised countless funds for its charities. His story raises the issue of homelessness in Edinburgh, and it’s important people and organisations do everything they can to raise awareness of homelessness in Scotland and that we work together to make it a thing of the past.”

Magic Carpet Minis: introducing very little ones to the fantastic objects in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Suitable for very young children (ages 0-2) with their parents or carers. 10.30-10.50am or 11.30-11.50am today and every Thursday until 18th December 2014 – meet at the Lighthouse Lens, Grand Gallery, Level One, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free – sign up on the day at the Information Desk in the Entrance Hall.

Tom Palmer: ‘Over the Line’ – even in the trenches, football lives on! Tom Palmer discusses his brilliant book about a real footballer’s experience in World War I. Children in P4 upwards are especially welcome. 6.30-7.30pm,  Central Children’s Library, George IV Bridge.

Teen Scream: magazine making club. If you’re interested in photography, music, art, cinema, comics, books, sport, computer games, journalism or local news – join the brand new editorial team! For teenagers. 3.30-4.30pm today and every Thursday, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Titian Uncovered: Venetian-themed evening exploring Titian, including pop-up talks, painting demonstrations and live music from Stephen Morrison and Gordon Ferries and the Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers. 6-8pm,  Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, free.

Aye Eye: a solo exhibition by Skye based artist James Newton Adams. ‘An impressive and coherent exhibition that will see James’ sculptures exhibited alongside his distinctive paintings.’  Today until 1st October 2014 (contact gallery for opening times), Union Gallery, Broughton Street.

Peter Burnett: Scotland or No. Peter Burnett launches his latest novel, a sequel to #freetopiary: An Occupy Romance. ‘Scotland or No sucks its young hero to the depths of the blogosphere, where the lines between the fake and the real have been smashed forever….fake jobs, fake people, fake places…from the gloom of Old Town closes emerges an underworld of smears and lies spread by feral bloggers and persona managers who will stop at nothing to ensure the success of their political cause..this army of fake profiles has more than just friends and likes.  These profiles can vote.’ 6-8pm Waterstones, George Street. Free tickets available from the shop. Call 0131 225 3436 for more information.

Easel Sketching in the Gallery: inspired by the Titian exhibition and working from a costumed figure. 2-4pm, Scottish National Gallery, (Main Floor of the Gallery) The Mound. No booking required. Also available on Friday 5th September.

Undercurrents: a group exhibition bringing together artists and artworks employing a contemporary approach to the traditional subject of seascape.  Private viewings 6-9pm today and Friday 5th, then normal opening hours until 8th October 2014, Arusha Gallery, 13a Dundas Street.

Fruitmarket Gallery: Descriptive Tour. A tour designed for visually-impaired visitors, including detailed descriptions of Jim Lambie’s work and practice. 6.30-8pm, Fruitmarket Gallery, 45 Market Street. Free and open to all but places limited to 10.

Gayfield Twilight Talks: Cloth and Memory – placemaking and materials in contemporary exhibitions. Sarah Saunders, Head of Learning and Programmes at V & A Dundee, introduces a conversation between leading UK textile creator Lesley Millar and independent curator Amanda Game on the subject of traditions of cloth-making and textile design in different cultures and  how that can connect us to both places and memory in ways which animate our experience of daily life.  The conversation will be accompanied by a special display of printed textiles by Professor Norma Starzakowna. 6-8pm, Lyon & Turnbull, 33 Broughton Place.  Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

LGBT Health and Wellbeing Learning Disability Project: Visit to Gorgie City Farm. For LGBT people who also identify as having a learning disability/difficulty. Come and see the animals, look around the farm, then visit the cafe for tea and chat. Meet at LGBT Health & Wellbeing Centre, 9 Howe Street at 2pm or later at Gorgie Farm, 51 Gorgie Road. Visit will end at 4.30pm. Booking essential by Monday 1st September: call 0131 523 1100. Please bring a carer or supporter if you need help to take part in the visit.

Independence and the Currency: how can Scotland change the banking and monetary system? Come and explore the questions around this issue in an evening of talks, film and discussion. A simultaneous documentary screening here and at the CCA in Glasgow will be preceded by a short talk and followed by a live video link-up between the two audiences for a Q & A session directed to a panel hosted in the Positive Money head office. Suitable for all ages. 7.30-9.30pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Free. Positive Money is a movement to democratise money and banking.

Painting with Bill: learn to paint with CCA’s resident artist Bill Jessiman. If you’ve never tried painting before, here’s your chance to give it a try in a relaxed and informal setting. Bill will talk you through the steps to producing an original oil painting. 1.30-4pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road.

Create: creative messy play session for 0-5 year olds and their parents or carers. Drop-in sessions demonstrating resourceful and inspiring ways to learn with your child. 10am-12 noon, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court.  50p per child per session.  More information here.  Also at same time on Saturdays.

Craighouse Development

Cycle to Work Day

Forth Road Bridge celebrations

Colony of Artists

Ryder Cup

Yesterday the council’s Development Management committee decided upon the application by The Craighouse Partnership to develop the listed buildings and land at Craighouse and approved it by 9 votes to 6. There is still a chance that the decision could be called in by Scottish Ministers but certainly the developers are ploughing ahead with their plans.

Our video here shows the comments by the planning convenor and others involved in the decision making process.

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Today is Cycle to Work Day when employers are encouraged to offer those cycling to work a free coffee and croissant when they get there. This is a national event across the whole of the UK championed by Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey hoping that others might be persuaded to take to two wheels.

As a cyclist you can pledge your miles and share this on social media to offer advice and information to those who do not yet know about the cycle to work scheme. Click here to offer your pledge.

Sustrans offer some confidence boosting advice on ways to travel to work on a bike. Click here for that information.

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50 years ago today the Queen opened the Forth Road Bridge on a very foggy September day. Accompanied by Prince Philip she drove across the bridge for free although every eligible vehicle after that had to pay until tolls were scrapped on bridges across Scotland by the SNP government in 2007.

The Forth Bridges Festival is about to start and you can get more information on that here. There is lots to do in South Queensferry this weekend!

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http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Abbeyhill-School-Artists-Email.pdf

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Today you could have your photo taken standing next to the Ryder Cup.

The Ryder Cup Trophy is to visit ‘the four corners of Scotland’ on an Official Trophy Tour, bringing the iconic trophy to the doorsteps of fans and members of the public across Scotland. The first stop for the world-famous trophy will be Edinburgh’s OMNI Centre today.

The launch event at Edinburgh’s OMNI Centre will also incorporate the unveiling of a large-scale installation welcoming The Ryder Cup back to Scotland. The striking image of one of Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ – a Golden Eagle – carrying the iconic Ryder Cup trophy ‘back to Scotland’, will adorn the exterior of The OMNI Centre in Edinburgh until the end of September.

During the day, there will be an opportunity for the general public to get a picture next to The Ryder Cup Trophy.

The trophy will then, travelling by helicopter on a week-long tour, take in the nation’s spectacular scenery at the most Northern, Eastern, Southern and Western courses participating in the ClubGolf programme. The wider legacy of The 2014 Ryder Cup is also important with participating courses also being chosen for their tourism and environmental connections.

The Development Managemnt committee met today for eight hours in the City Chambers to hear both sides of the argument about the development planned for Craighouse.

The final decision was to grant all three planning applications made by The Craighouse Partnership which accords with the advice from planning officials. The decision was 9-6 in favour.

The developer still has to enter into a Section 75 agreement with the council but it will contain a developer contribution of £336,000 to the education budget.

The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to some of the key people after the meeting ended.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuOGN4JWgtY]

Local Greens have signalled dismay over the decision by planning committee to grant permission for new high-cost housing at Craighouse. While Green planning committee member, Nigel Bagshaw, voted against permission, the committee as a whole voted in favour.

Local Green councillor Gavin Corbett slammed the decision, claiming:

“This is nothing short of a betrayal of the thousands of people who have submitted objections to the massive over-development of Craighouse as one of the most special places in the city.”

Neighbouring Green councillor Melanie Main added:

“In deciding to ride roughshod over a host of planning protections, those members of planning committee who supported the application have not only signalled a dramatic change at Craighouse, they have utterly undermined their future credibility as custodians of the city”

And Green MSP Alison Johnstone, who lives locally, said:

“One of the biggest disappointments in today’s decision is that it has closed the door on exciting plans to re-invent Craighouse as a hub for community enjoyment and local businesses in favour of bland and exclusive private housing. What a failure of the imagination!”

The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches is an event that the Lord Provost has described as one of the most visually arresting of his tenure thus far. It takes place this Sunday so you would be well-advised not to miss it!

This year the event will commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War. In partnership with leading veterans’ charity Poppyscotland, over 270 riders led by the Edinburgh Captain, Captains Lass and the First and Second Officers will inspect the city boundaries before making their way to the Royal Mile to stage a spectacular mounted cavalcade.

The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches takes place on Sunday 7  September 2014 and will attract representatives from the 30 riding towns of Scotland from as far afield as Shetland in the north to Annan in the south.  The event attracts around 15,000 spectators throughout the city.

The contribution to the First World War by horsemen and horses alike was profound.  In the region of 6,000 horsemen lost their lives in cavalry attacks and a further 16,000 were injured.  A total of 1 million horses were sent to the front with only 65,000 returning to Britain.  To this day, horses are still used within the military in ceremonial parades and in the rehabilitation of ex-Servicemen and women. This is reflected in the representation of HorseBack UK in the ride, an equine therapy charity which has received funding from Poppyscotland.

The cavalcade of 270 horses will leave Holyrood Park at 3.30pm and then make its way up the Royal Mile to the Mercat Cross, opposite the City Chambers, where the city banner will be returned by Captain for 2014, Stuart Mitchell.  This will take place from 4pm.

The Riding of the Marches commemorates the tradition of inspecting the city’s boundaries first recorded in 1579, although the tradition is likely to have been carried out for centuries before.  In times of peace after the Union of Parliaments in 1707, the annual inspection ceased until 1946 when a ride was held to celebrate peace after the Second World War.  It returned in 2009 and has grown into one of the city’s major annual events.

A collection will take place for Poppyscotland on Sunday, with volunteers from the charity on the Royal Mile offering the public the opportunity to make a donation to support those who have served, those still serving and their families.

Further information can be found at www.edinburghridingthemarches.co.uk

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for information to help trace a woman reported missing from Edinburgh.

Yaye Ndoye, was last seen on 23rd and 25th June when she attended a medical appointment at a local hospital however she has since failed to attend future appointments.

Members of the public are now asked to come forward if they can assist in locating her.

Yaye originally comes from Senegal and is believed to be seven months pregnant.

Inspector Murray Starkey said: “We are concerned as Yaye has not accessed local medical services and we are keen to trace her so that we can confirm her welfare.

“Yaye has previously visited a number of places within the UK including Glasgow and London and we are currently engaging with our colleagues in these areas as part of our ongoing enquiries.

“Anyone who knows or has seen her in the last three months is asked to contact police immediately.

“In addition, I would ask that Yaye get in touch and let us know she is alright.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.

A serious assault last night has led to an appeal by Police Scotland for witnesses.

The incident happened between 9.30pm and 9.40pm yesterday in Gilmerton Dykes Crescent.

An 18-year-old man was within his home when three men forced entry to the address before attacking him.

The men then made off from the property before fleeing on a motorcycle towards Gilmerton Dykes Street.

As a result, the victim sustained serious facial injuries and was taken to St John’s hospital where he continues to be treated.

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

The first suspect is described as white, around 5ft 11ins tall with a heavy build and wearing a black hooded top and balaclava.

The second suspect is described as white, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins tall with a medium to stocky build and wearing black clothing and a black balaclava.

The third suspect is described only as being of stocky build and also wearing black clothing and a black balaclava.

Detective Constable John McShane said: “This has been a terrifying ordeal for the victim, who was left with painful injuries to his face after being attacked within the property.

“We are now keen to speak with anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in or around Gilmerton Dykes Crescent on Tuesday evening.

“In particular, if anyone remembers seeing a dark-coloured motorcycle either entering or leaving the area between 9.30pm and 9.40pm, is asked to contact police immediately.

“In addition, anyone with information that can help us identify and trace the suspects is asked to get in touch.”

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

Today is a big day in the development of Edinburgh’s first community owned renewable energy project, located at Harlaw Reservoir near Balerno.

Harlaw Hydro raised over £300,000 with a community share launch. There are now 232 shareholders who own the project, 71% of them in the local area.

For the last year the Harlaw Hydro technical team have been project managing the pre-build stage, satisfying all the technical and legal issues and we are now ready to bring in the diggers!

To celebrate this the Lord Provost wielded the Golden Spade in a sod cutting ceremony.

The Edinburgh Reporter was there to capture it all on film:

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

Danny Alexander is LibDem Chief Secretary to the Treasury, a job he has held since 2010. Clearly a Better Together supporter this is his view on the vote on 18 September.

Oxgangs Primary School gathered out in the playground and in the environmental garden for a short speech and a symbolic green flag raising ceremony at the end of last week. Our photograph shows Leah (11) Beth (11) and Tiah (11)  all members of the Eco Council at the school after they had successfully hoisted the flag in their eco garden at the school.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3EaolioX9k]

Eco Lead Coordinator Janet Buckle explained: “To gain our first green flag, we created an action plan in three areas. In our first area ,which was litter, we tried to reduce the amount of litter in the school buildings and within the school grounds. The children promoted this at Assemblies and we learned anti- litter songs. Our Primary three pupils took part in the annual Spring clean campaign and helped clean up our school grounds and the area around it. Litter surveys were completed to identify the litter ‘hot spots’.

“Our second area was energy and our target was to become more aware of energy conservation. Each class appointed energy monitors to switch off lights when leaving the class, energy reminder labels were made and displayed. The children created and promoted a Green Christmas campaign to encourage energy conservation at home. Each class took part in the school run Eco Day of Action and learnt about energy creation and conservation.

“The last area was transport, and the target was to encourage the children to walk to and from school and to promote safe cycling and scootering. Bike ability 1 practical workshops were delivered to all our middle years pupils last year and Bike Ability 2 was rolled out to all Primary six pupils. We created  a new scooter storage facility. Edinburgh Council donated one free scooter pod and a successful Sustrans funding grant helped fund half the costs for a second pod. Our Parent Teachers Association and our Playground Development Group kindly donated the rest of the money and we now have a seconds pod. This has helped make scootering more popular and free up spaces in our bike shed for more bikes.

“All of our school community has been on an Eco journey and we are delighted to receive our green flag for all our hard work and continuing commitment and we are already working towards our second green flag with enthusiasm.”

Magic Carpet: introducing little ones to the fantastic objects in the museum through 25 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Suitable for ages 2-4 with an accompanying adult. 10.30-10.55am or 11.30-11.55am today and every Wednesday until 17th December 2014 – meet at the Lighthouse Lens, Grand Gallery, Level One, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free – sign up on the day at the Information Desk in the Entrance Hall. A similar session for ages 0-2 is held on Thursdays at the same times.

Edinburgh College Recruitment Day: an opportunity to talk to lecturers about each programme area and interview/audition and apply for courses online (bring whatever equipment you may need.) Places available to start now on a wide range of courses from access to degree level, vocational training and professionally accredited qualifications. 3-7.30pm, Edinburgh College, Granton Campus, 350 West Granton Road,

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Charlaine Harris: Midnight Crossroad. Harris, queen of fantasy, celebrated mystery writer and author of the hugely successful Sookie Stackhouse novels (which were made into HBO’s True Blood series), will introduce her new novel, Midnight Crossroad, ‘a chilling small town murder with a jaw-dropping twist.’ 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets available from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218 or by emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk

Titian in Ten: ten minute pop-up talks delivered by NGS staff.  Gain an exclusive insight as staff from across the galleries offer different perspectives on Titian’s masterpieces. 2pm, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound.  Free and unticketed.

Behind the Scenes: Your Chance to Explore the Archive. Have you ever wanted to see what lies in the Gallery of Modern Art’s Archive, and to have a chance to make your own selection from the materials held there? In conjunction with artists Carson & Miller, NGS are offering you the chance to do just that. Carson & Miller will play ‘An Archive Game‘ in the Gallery of Modern Art’s archive store – part of the gallery that is usually unseen by visitors.  Come by yourself or bring a partner to join in. The selection you make when you play could form part of a forthcoming gallery exhibition in the Keiller Library. There will be five events throughout the day, each lasting 30 minutes, at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm, all at the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art TWO, Belford Road. Free places should be booked by calling 0131 624 6268.

Hospices of Hope Open Meeting: Carolyn Perolls, Chief Executive of Hospices of Hope Trading, will talk about the wonderful work undertaken by Hospices of Hope’s teams of health professionals in Romania, Serbia and Moldova to improve the lives of adults and children with life-limiting conditions – work that could not be carried out without the generosity of Hospices of Hope’s customers. Come along and learn about the satisfaction of raising funds for these very necessary causes. 2-4.30pm, Royal Overseas League, 100 Princes Street. All welcome – tea, coffee and cake provided!

Lunchtime Concert: Liedertafel 1878 Male Voice Choir from Goddelsheim, Germany. 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Walk The War: join Andrew Grant on a tour of Leith. 10am-1pm, starting at Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.  Free but please book in advance by emailing the library at leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk or calling 0131 529 5517. Part of the Leith in World War One season.

Charity Cake Extravaganza: Edinburgh Bakers, It’s Good 2 Give and Lauriston Castle host this charity event, with all proceeds going to It’s Good 2 Give. Magician, raffle – and four slices of cake per ticket! Pledges of cakes required: tickets cost £5 if you pledge a cake, £10 if you just want to eat it. 6.30-8.30pm, Victorian Glasshouse (outside if good weather), Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road South. See Edinburgh Bakers’ website for more details and  how to obtain tickets – NB numbers limited.

After School Art Club: a chance to experiment and learn from others, be creative and above all have fun. For children aged 4-12. 5-6.15pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. £1 per person.

Zoo Arts: visual art sessions for local young artists who would like to improve their skills and be inspired and involved with exciting  projects that run on a 2-4 week basis. For ages 9-14.  4-5.30pm, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court.  50p per session, includes healthy snack. More information here.

Gaelic Workshop: free, very informal language class/workshop for total beginners. 2.30-3.30pm, Forest Cafe, Lauriston Place.

Free The Technics Two (vinyl session): ‘not only do we demand a revolution we can dance to, we want to dance to our own tunes.’ 4-7pm, Forest Cafe, Lauriston Place

Samba Drumming Workshop @ FC+: 5.50-7.30pm, Forest Centre Plus, 38 Castle Terrace.

Leith Community Safety Surgery: tenants and homeowners welcome to come along and meet local officers from the police and council. Seek advice, raise concerns or chat about your community. 12 noon – 2pm, McDonald Road library, McDonald Road. No appointment needed.

Craighouse Planning Application

RSNO

Real Nappy Project

Harlaw Hydro

Edinburgh is number 2!

Today the council’s Development Management Committee meets for a whole day devoted to one planning application, the redevelopment of Craighouse which was previously owned by Edinburgh Napier University and run as part of their citywide campus.

The current owners now wish to develop the site for housing, but there have been many objections and everyone who wishes to have their say should have their opportunity today.

Despite the fact that the planning officials have recommended the applications be granted, there will no doubt be some heated words over the important site to the south of the city.

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Get your tickets now for the opening of the RSNO season. The RSNO’s 2014:15 Season opens with Oundjian Conducts Scheherazade, at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh on Friday 3 October For more information please visit www.rsno.org.uk

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The Changeworks Real Nappy Project will be hosting a new Nappuccino at the Pregnancy and Parenting Centre in Tollcross on Friday 5^thSeptember. Parents and parents-to-be are welcome to drop in anytime between 10 and 11.30am to receive free information and advice from the knowledgeable volunteers, see a demo of real nappies and to buy some good quality second hand cloth nappies in a friendly coffee morning setting. More information at: http://www.changeworks.org.uk/shared/edinburgh/536/.

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This morning the Lord Provost will wield his Golden Spade at the event to mark the building of the Harlaw Hydro project. This successful community based project has raised

We hope to bring you more about this which is billed as one of the Capital Coalition’s cooperative projects later today.

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The Bo’ness Hill Climb takes place over Saturday and Sunday 6-7 September 2014. The event has been going for 80 years but had a break and was then revived about 7 years ago. The racing action takes place at the western end of the town at Kinneil Estate.

This is now a real weekend of fun for all the family with lovely cars of all vintages and many which are the sole survivor of their type and make. You can bring your own classic car to join in the fun and there will be an air show and pipe band to round off the weekend’s entertainment.

Lots more information here and some great photos here.

Here is a video of the action from last year.

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

REVIVAL OF ACCLAIMED STAGE ADAPTATION OF SCOTLAND’S MOST POPULAR NOVEL OF ALL TIME

David Hutchinson and Phillip Rowntree for Sell A Door Theatre Company in Association with The Beacon are proud to announce their 2014 Scottish tour of Sunset Song adapted by Alasdair Cording from Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s classic story, recently voted Scotland’s most popular novel of all time.The tour opens at Perth Concert Hall on Monday 8 September, with dates at the King’s Theatre, Tuesday 7 to Saturday 11 October 2014.

Chris Guthrie is bound to a harsh farming life by her intense love of the land. She dreams of the seductive yet distant world of books and learning, but when war breaks out, Chris suddenly finds herself facing a very different reality as a widowed, single mother in a land altered beyond recognition.

Set in a farming community in the North East of Scotland, Sunset Song charts Chris’s struggle to adapt to her new world and hold together her fragile family. Her survival depends solely on her belief that beyond the sunset lies hope.

Rebecca Elise will play Chris Guthrie alongside Alan McHugh (John Guthrie), Clare Waugh (Jean Guthrie), Craig Anthony-Ralston (Ewan Tavendale), David McKay (Chae Strachan), Fraser Sivewright (Will Guthrie), Jennifer Hainey (Margret Strachan) and Sandy Nelson (Rob Duncan).

Marking a hundred years since the start of the First World War, Sell a Door Theatre Company revives Alastair Cording’s faithful adaptation of Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s novel, dealing with Scottish national identity, the role of women and changes affecting rural farming communities in the years leading to the outbreak of World War 1.

Sunset Song is directed by Artistic Director of The Beacon, Julie Ellen.  Julie has worked extensively as an actor and director in Scotland and London and she became the Artistic Director for the new Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock. Julie has collaborated on several productions with Sell A Door.

The production will be designed by Jan Bee Brown who has designed productions for the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Tron Theatre and Old Vic Theatre.  Sunset Song also marks the return of Alexander Ridgers as Lighting Designer, having worked extensively on Sell A Door productions in the past including Seussical, The History Boys and Sincerely Mr Toad.

Sunset Song is supported by Creative Scotland.

More than twenty fitness classes from Zumba to Bodypump will be part of the Super Saturday event that Edinburgh Leisure are putting on this October at Meadowbank Sports Centre.

This will be the city’s biggest fitness class event and is open to everyone from beginners to fitness gurus.

Tickets are £13,50 and you can get more information on booking your place for the daylong fitness extravaganza on 4 October 2014 here.

For more information on this exciting event please email feelgood@edinburghleisure.co.uk

The due date for Edinburgh’s much anticipated panda cub has come and gone. Any birth was due on Sunday and nothing has happened.

Iain Valentine, Director of Giant Pandas for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said:

“As you are all probably aware, giant panda Tian Tian is now past her due date and the evidence suggests that this may be bad news. She is still displaying some of the behaviours of a pregnant panda, but the scientific data from the urine analysis of her hormones is becoming more atypical. There is still a chance she will give birth to a live cub as her progesterone levels have not yet returned to base.

“I must stress, as there has been a lot in the news recently about pandas ‘faking’ it, that this was definitely not a pseudo or phantom pregnancy. The results of cutting edge scientific analysis have shown that, across the entire pregnancy, Tian Tian had the profile of a pregnant panda likely to carry to full term. We are working with the of the very best panda experts in the world and they were all in agreement. The scientific data extracted by analysing hormones and proteins in her urine was a text book example of what we wanted to see. However, at the very end of last week there were one or two results from the hormone tests that were atypical and that was the first sign something might be amiss. Although it is still very new, the scientific data does suggest that the last point she should have gone into labour was over the weekend, unfortunately this did not happen. “

RZSS experts continue to monitor Tian Tian closely and we will know more towards the end of the week as her cycle comes to an end either way. During this time the panda enclosure remains closed.

For further information visit the Edinburgh Zoo website on www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

The First Movie: Pop-Up Screening for Kurdistan. In 2009 Mark Cousins went to N Iraq (Kurdistan) to make The First Movie, a magical film about children, imagination and storytelling. Ethnic minorities are again being ‘ethnically cleansed’ in the area: this screening is to raise money and awareness for the people of Kurdistan. Donations will be sent via a new Scottish support group, KISS (Kurdistan is Supported by Scotland) to assist a group of Swedish Kurdish doctors to take medical aid to thousands of people sheltering at Zakho Refugee Camp.  The screening will be followed by a talk by Mark Cousins and Aso Fotoohi, a Kurdish refugee now living in Glasgow and a founder member of KISS. For adults and children 12+, 7-9.30pm, Cairns Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Free but donations of £10 per person, or whatever you can afford, invited. ‘A terrifically enjoyable and engaging film’ – Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian.

eBook Surgery: get help with downloading free eBooks, audiobooks and emagazines. 2-3.30pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. No appointment necessary.

Demonstration of Traditional Oil Painting – The Portrait: instructors from the Academy of Realist Art will demonstrate traditional layering process oil painting as used by 19th century academies. 12 noon-4.30pm, Scottish National Gallery, (Main Floor of the Gallery) The Mound. Free drop-in, no booking required.

Impressions: an exhibition of prints by gallery trainees Otis Berry, Lee Mylne, Freya Levy, Carole Simonsen and Calvin McCluskie. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday until 20th September 2014, Gallery On The Corner, Northumberland Street. The Gallery was the first social firm to be developed by Autism Ventures Scotland. AVS was established to create employment opportunities for people with Autistic Spectrum condition in Scotland.

Natural Earth: an exhibition of works by Alice Shaw. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday until 20th September 2014, Gallery On The Corner, Northumberland Street.

Women’s Multi-Art Group: a new group for women.  A chance to do arts and crafts or drawing and painting in a sociable setting. 10-11.30am, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road.

The Drammie Dodgers: Craigmillar’s drama group for all aged over 8 years meets every week to play drama games, enjoy improvisations and rehearse for performances. 6.30-8pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. £1 per person. Contact the Centre on 0131 669 8432 if interested.

Royal Botanic Garden Adult Education Open Evening: the Botanic Garden runs weekly classes and weekend workshops in many subjects, from botany and horticulture to herbology, garden history, art and wellbeing, so come along, meet the tutors and discover the latest range of courses. Everything from one day workshops to professional qualifications. 6-8pm, Royal Botanic Garden Conference Room, 20a Inverleith Row.  Free, no booking required, refreshments provided.

The Good Food Guide, published by Waitrose, has today announced four entries from Edinburgh and nine new entries from all over Scotland in the 2015 edition of the Guide, which is published on 8th September. The Guide reflects the high standard of dining in Scotland, with a total of 103 restaurants, pubs and cafés from across Scotland included in the UK’s bestselling restaurant guide.

New entries in Scotland which have landed a spot in Waitrose Good Food Guide 2015 are the Wheatsheaf at Swinton in the Borders; The Cellar in Fife; The Foveran in Orkney; Bistro Moderne, The Scran and Scallie and Timberyard in Edinburgh; Crabshakk, and Grapevine Restaurant all in Strathclyde and Ninth Wave on the Isle of Mull.

But it’s not just new entries making an impact on the Waitrose Good Food Guide 2015, four restaurants from Scotland have made it in to the much coveted Top 50 Restaurants listing – Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles in Tayside at number 11, The Kitchin and Restaurant Martin Wishart in Edinburgh at numbers 22 and 27 respectively, and The Peat Inn in Fife at number 31.

Scotland is also home to some of the longest-serving restaurants in the Good Food Guide⁽³⁾; Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow has appeared in the guide for 43 years withAirds Hotel in Port Appin, Inverlochy Castle in Fort William and Ostlers Close in Cupar all appearing for over 30 years.

Elizabeth Carter, Consultant Editor of the Waitrose Good Food Guide, commented: ‘I really am impressed by the high standard of all Scottish restaurants in the Guide – the country seems to be a magnet for talented chefs. There may be a wealth of top restaurants, but particular acknowledgment must go to the new entries in the Good Food Guide 2015 – it’s great to see restaurants of the quality of Ninth Wave entering the Guide for the first time. Long may this continue.’

Ceilidhkids start pre-school classes today

Funding opportunities

Edinburgh College Open Day

Public conveniences to be closed?

Walk around Leith

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Bus and tram passengers in Edinburgh now have a new way of paying for their journeys, through the new pre-paid smartcard, ‘citysmart’.

Available from 1 September, the transferrable card stores up to 50 adult single journeys for bus and tram, and can be used by friends, family or colleagues. Passengers only need to hold the card against the bus ticket machine or the tram stop card validator to use it.

Ian Craig, Chief Executive of Transport for Edinburgh, said:

“Everyone has their own preferences for getting around the city and how they like to pay. We are constantly improving the fare options available to our passengers so that they can buy and board in a way that suits them best.

“Innovation is at the forefront of our business and along with the introduction of citysmart, we will see our whole fleet fitted with free Wi-Fi and a further delivery of Hybrid vehicles before the end of 2014.”

In November last year, Transport for Edinburgh introduced Scotland’s first mobile ticketing app for public transport. Other ways to pay include the best-value Ridacard season tickets for regular travellers, and a range of DAYtickets for unlimited daily travel.

The citysmart card is available from www.yourcitysmart.com or a Transport for Edinburgh Travelshop. It is valid on virtually all Transport for Edinburgh routes, excluding the airport, NightBus and a small number of other services.

Whether it was modesty, reticence or goodness knows what else, Edinburgh International Festival director – and respected composer – Jonathan Mills had left it until the final concert of his final Festival to programme a piece of his own. In the event, it felt like quite a statement – not only was Mills bowing out with something of his own creation, but it was a deeply serious piece with strong personal connections.

His Sandakan Threnody remembers the Second World War death marches in northern Borneo, where more than 2,000 Australian and British prisoners of war died on the 260km-long jungle tracks that they were forced to walk by the Japanese captors between Sandakan and Ranau. Mills’s father was himself incarcerated in Sandakan, and his moving oratorio was written as a tribute to his experiences there.

There was a lot of curiosity about the piece, and about the performance, and both more than lived up to any expectations. It was a solemn utterance, setting dark texts from Psalm 130 (‘De profundis clamavi’), Russian poet Anna Akhmatova and Australian writer Randolph Stow for tenor, chorus and large orchestra, slow to process, quick to erupt in seething anger, but ultimately consoling and noting resilience.

Tenor Andrew Staples carried the emotional weight of the slow-moving final movement, setting the unmistakably Australian imagery of Stow’s poem Sleep about battling a bushfire, and his impeccably detailed delivery, enunciated with ringing clarity, had just the right balance of emotion and restraint for Mills’s powerful setting.

The Edinburgh Festival Chorus were hugely effective in the quietly anguished wails of the second movement, and conductor Ilan Volkov (pictured) delivered the opening movement’s monolithic evocations of ancient Japanese gagaku with tight ensemble and pinpoint precision. There were nods to Messiaen and Britten in Mills’s music, but its raw yet deeply Romantic musical imagery sounded fresh and entirely individual – and despite its intellectual rigour and profundity, it was astonishingly expressive.

From darkness to light – the concert’s second half, and the music that brought the Festival’s Usher Hall concerts to a thrilling close, was Janacek’s gloriously vivid Glagolitic Mass, a celebration of the wonders of the natural world and the composer’s seemingly unconditional love for a woman almost 40 years his junior. Volkov led a bright, colourful, somewhat brittle performance, quite driven at times (to the extent that some of the composer’s beloved speech rhythms got a little trampled in the stampede), but full of verve and brilliant detail. And the Edinburgh Festival Chorus were grippingly powerful in their all-important role, clearly relishing Janacek’s luxuriously melodic writing in a sonorous performance. It was the ideal foil to the dark seriousness of the concert’s first half, and a resoundingly positive, hopeful end to a serious-minded Festival.