Three Edinburgh volunteers have been presented with the British Empire Medal today in recognition of their dedication to caring and volunteering and for their communities.

The Lord Provost, acting as the Queen’s representative for the City of Edinburgh, presented the medals to the three female recipients from the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List at a special ceremony at the Capital’s City Chambers.

The 2014 recipients are Mrs Jeanette Agnes Barton for services to Community Care, Mrs Margaret Collinson for Voluntary Service in Edinburgh, and Mrs Elizabeth Agnes Macdonald for service to NHS Medic 1 Trust.

The British Empire Medal is awarded for a sustained, local contribution of innovative, high-impact work worthy of recognition by the Crown. Awarded from 1922 until 1992, it was brought back in June 2012 in celebration for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Donald Wilson, said: “It is my honour and privilege to bestow, on the Queen’s behalf, the British Empire Medal to these very worthy recipients.

“Each of these women are inspirational role models for our city, proving that hard working and caring volunteers are at the heart of building positivity within communities.”

Creative Scotland are supporting Edinburgh based twenty four year old producer Leon T Pearl so that he can join five other Scottish bands appearing at The Great Escape 2014 in May.

He will join Prides, Honeyblood, Baby Strange, Neon Waltz and RM Hubbert at two Showcasing Scotland Concerts being presented on 8 and 9 May at the Dome Studio Bar in Brighton.

Pearl released his debut single Take You To Market on Method Records.  His early musical adventures brought together a love of electronic music, club culture and classical piano.  Time well spent travelling brought more inspiration: a mutual friend led to studio sessions with Nicolas Jaar in New York and a rudimental grasp of Japanese resulted in a young Leon residing in Tokyo for a short while.

Listen to his music here

Alongside live music The Great Escape is also a leading music business convention and this year is set to attract 3000 music industry delegates.

Creative Scotland is also hosting a networking event on 9 May to help promote the profile of Scottish music with those people attending the convention.

You can find out more about Leon Pearl here.

www.facebook.com/leontpearl

www.twitter.com/leontpearl

A Woman Without Secrets, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art’s Louise Bourgeois exhibition, will end next month.  It’s a show that inspires strong feelings; I’ve seen it three times and I’m still discovering new things about this fascinating artist.  On Monday in Modern Art One’s Studio, Elizabeth Manchester, PhD Researcher at Chelsea School of Art and Lipman Writer in Residence at Newcastle University, gave an enlightening talk, ‘ Spiraling Anxiety; hysteria transformed in the work of Louise Bourgeois.’

Bourgeois, says Manchester, was an anxious woman who feared many things; silence, the dark, falling down, insomnia.  Bourgeois once said that life consisted of  two opposing emotions, love and fear; the fear of not being loved and the fear of abandonment.  She saw art as a ‘guarantee of sanity; it gave her a way to cope with her sometimes terrifying feelings.

While Bourgeios was studying at the Sorbonne, her mother died.  This had a profound effect on her, and many of her later works focus on the mother as a protector – the huge spider sculptures on display at the gallery are representative of maternal bounty and maternal terror; they guard against evil, but they also consume.  Bourgeois had three sons, but felt that she could never match up to her mother in maternal ability. One of her spider sculptures is called Maman, another Ode a ma Mere; Bourgeios once referred to spiders as ‘helpful and protective, just like my mother.’

In 1938, the International Surrealist Exhibition was staged in Paris.  It was curated by Marcel Du Champ; Salvador Dali and Maz Ernst were its technical advisers, Man Ray its lighting technician.  On the opening night, Helene Vanel performed a dance, ‘L’acte manque’ – the Unconsummated Act, in a room called ‘the hysterical bedroom.’  It was described as a realistic portrayal of an ‘hysterical attack’, something that greatly interested the Surrealists.   At that time, hysteria was a blanket term used to define any woman who showed signs of nervous disorder; doctors subjected thesm to all manner of horrendous physical ‘cures’ , ignoring the social and political causes of their suffering.  It is likely that Bourgeois attended this exhibition, and although she later claimed to loathe Surrealism her work was deeply influenced by it, perhaps especially by Marcel Duchamp.

It took Freud and Breur to see that ‘hysterical’ women were neither stupid nor physically ill; rather, they were highly intelligent people frustrated by the social rules of their day.  Feminism and hysteria began to collide, but even Freud was not prepared to allow women to subvert the social order, famously asking ‘What does woman want?’ and failing to provide an answer.

Bourgeois’s father’s bullying, his serial philandering and most especially his affair with her governess (which her mother knew about but preferred to ignore) were central issues in her life.  On his death she entered psychoanalysis, something she continued to explore for the rest of her life although her attitude to it and to hysteria was ambivalent.  Many of her works are representations of body parts – she distrusted words, feeling that their purpose was often to hide things;  ‘The body does not lie.’  Her rage against her own powerlessness could only be overcome by taking control.  At the Sorbonne, she first studied mathematics and geometry because ‘I got peace of mind only through the study of rules nobody could change’; in later life she frequently drew rows and rows of spirals and other patterns (the Insomnia Drawings, shown recently at the Fruitmarket Gallery, are examples) , again finding structure in a sea of free-floating ideas. She once said ‘I have to control space because I cannot stand emptiness.’

Bourgeois made many hanging sculptures; these have several interpretations in her work.  ‘Spiral Woman’, one of the best known, swings and turns; she is hanging, waiting, not knowing what she is for, both protected and vulnerable; Bourgeois explained that ‘She is Louise.’ The spiral is a protection against chaos, but also an expression of trust, a reaching out.

The power and affirmation that Bourgeois gained from psychoanalysis allowed her to express her fears.  The only powerlessness for her was terror of her own feelings, and she harnessed these in her greatest works of art.  In her own words, her work began as the fear of falling, grew into the art of falling, and finally evolved into the art of hanging in there.  Bourgeois died in 2010, aged 98.

A Woman Without Secrets is on at the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art (One) until 18th May, admission free.

A richly illustrated book ‘Artists Rooms: Louise Bourgeois, A Woman Without Secrets‘ accompanies the exhibition.  It is published by the National Galleries of Scotland and is available from the gallery shop at £12.99.

Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has just announced Simon Helberg’s romantic comedy WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS, co-directed by Jocelyn Towne, as the Closing Night film at the 68^th edition of the Edinburgh International Film Festival on Sunday 29 June. The Festival runs from 18 to 29 June 2014.

Released in the UK by Metrodome, WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS is written and co-directed by Helberg (The Big Bang Theory), who also plays the lead, and co-directed by actor/director Jocelyn Towne (I Am I). The film also stars Zachary Quinto (Star Trek), Alfred Molina (The Da Vinci Code, Spiderman 2), Melanie Lynskey (Up In The Air, The Perks Of Being A Wallflower), Jason Ritter (Parenthood, Joan Of Arcadia) and Maggie Grace (Taken, The Twilight Saga).  WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS is produced by Robert Ogden Barnum (All is Lost, Lawless, Margin Call) and Katie Mustard (The Greatest, Night Catches Us), along with Helberg and Towne.  International sales are handled by K5 International.

Chris Fujiwara, EIFF Artistic Director, said: “With WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS, a funny and very personal romantic comedy, we’ll be able to close this year’s festival on a real high note. It’s a film of great charm and considerable intelligence, and Simon Helberg is brilliant in it.”

WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS will receive its International premiere at Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre on Sunday 29 June with Simon Helberg in attendance, and will open nationwide in August 2014.

Simon Helberg, Director, said: “It is an unbelievable thrill to be picked as the coveted closing night film at such a legendary festival. We hope the people of Scotland will find our pain and suffering as funny as we do.”

Based on Helberg and Towne’s real life romantic history, WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS is a candid tale of a neurotic young man rattled by the sudden declaration of love he receives from an attractive co-worker (Grace) moments before he is about to propose to his girlfriend (Lynskey).  Heartbroken, she flees to Paris, and he must now race across the Atlantic to win her back. But will he be too late?

As previously announced, this year will see a FOCUS ON GERMANY strand at the Festival which aims to shine a light on Germany’s most inventive filmmakers with screenings of new and retrospective films. In partnership with German Films, with additional support from the Goethe-Institut, EIFF will offer festival-goers the opportunity to sample a broad range of titles from the most intelligent and inspiring auteurs in German cinema.

Highlights of the programme include hard-hitting family dramas ‘Daughters’ by Maria Speth; ‘Parents’ directed by Robert Thalheim; and Edward Berger’s stirring tale of courage and responsibility, ‘Jack’. ‘Stations Of The Cross’  from Dietrich Brüggemann  charts a teenage girl’s struggles with questions of life, death and faith, while ‘A House In Berlin’ directed by Cynthia Beatt  explores a woman’s personal journey of self-discovery as she delves in to the history of 20^thcentury Germany. The FOCUS ON GERMANY will also include expansive works such as Edgar Reitz’s historical epic ‘Home From Home – Chronicle Of A Vision’; Thomas Heise’s powerful documentary observing juvenile offenders in Mexico ‘Staedtebewohner’, Bruce LaBruce’sexperimental adaptation of Arnold Schönberg’s song cycle ‘Pierrot Lunaire’  and the UK premiere of Dominik Graf’s ‘Beloved Sisters’.  Shorts programme ‘Small Revolutions’ will showcase four striking examples of short-form cinema from contemporary Germany.

In addition the FOCUS ON GERMANY will present ‘Secret Master: Dominik Graf and the Hidden History Of German Cinema’, a celebration of director Dominik Graf who has long been one of the best kept secrets in German-language cinema – mainly because he found his niche in television production. In his native country, Graf is a prolific and inventive filmmaker who is celebrated as the country’s foremost specialist in crime and melodrama. A special feature of the programme is a carte blanche of German TV thrillers which Graf himself, an ardent cinephile, has selected for EIFF.

EIFF is also proud to be working for the first time with Edinburgh-based events company Neu! Reekie! on ‘Achtung! Maybe!’ which will be held on 27 June at Summerhall in Edinburgh. Curators Michael Pedersen and Kevin Williamson will present a special German-themed Neu! Reekie! of Weimar Republic animation and films,  accompanied by live music and performance adding a uniquely immersive element to the FOCUS ON GERMANY programme. Music includes new work from Edinburgh-based bands Found and Birdhead and will showcase previous winners of EIFF’s McLaren Award for Best British Animation.

Hibs have announced that Motherwell Chief Executive Leeann Dempster has joined the board of directors at Easter Road.

The announcement was made in the following statement on the Club Website earlier today.

“The Board of Hibernian FC is delighted to confirm the appointment of Leeann Dempster as Chief Executive – with a remit to lead the Club as it plans for success on the pitch and wider engagement with the Hibernian Family.

Leeann joins from Motherwell FC which under Leeann’s leadership has become a model community club whilst enjoying strong sporting success. Leeann takes up her position with Hibernian with effect from 1 June 2014.

Chairman Rod Petrie said: “We are delighted that Leeann is joining Hibernian. I am certain she will be a tremendously important ‘signing’ and will provide the daily leadership needed next season to help achieve the Board’s plans and meet the aspirations of supporters.

“Leeann is an outstanding football leader with a proven track record. In addition to a desire for sporting success, I know from our numerous discussions that there is a shared belief in the direction of travel towards increased involvement of supporters and greater community engagement.”

“Rod Petrie stands down as interim Chief Executive on Leeann’s appointment but continues in his role as non-executive Chairman of Hibernian.

“Leeann added: “I believe that to succeed in a sustainable way in the long term we need to grow club resources, re-engage lapsed supporters and strengthen the club collectively. As a big city club, Hibernian has a fantastic opportunity to build on the great physical assets and grow attendances through increased engagement and success on the pitch. I am looking forward to the challenge.

“There are a number of initiatives that we will be able to announce to supporters in due course and that will show we want to meet the shared ambitions of supporters. We want a vision that everyone can buy into so they can play their part in the future of our club.”

Leeann’s appointment is the first major step on the road to delivering a vision developed in collaboration between club management and supporters through the Let’s Work Together project.

The vision seeks to create a virtuous cycle through three main drivers – developing the Club; developing players; and success on the pitch. The ultimate aim is to create a Club which will be competitive in every match and where winning becomes a habit, but it is done so with the club operating in a sustainable way.

Motherwell FC has enjoyed a period of almost unmatched consistency with four successive top-six finishes, and qualified for Europe in four of the five seasons, playing in both the UEFA Cup and, latterly, the newly formed Europa League as well as representing Scotland in the UEFA Champions League.

During her tenure, Motherwell FC also appeared in three national Cup Semi Finals and one Scottish Cup Final, and in season 2012/13 finished 2nd behind Celtic

Police are appealing for information to help trace a man reported missing in the Drylaw area of the city.

Mark Henderson was last seen around 2.30pm on Sunday 27th April leaving his home address in Muirhouse Park, however, the 51-year-old has not been seen or heard from since and concern is now growing for his welfare.

Mark is taking blood-thinning medication and it is believed he does not have this in his possession.

Anyone who can assist police with their enquiries is asked to come forward.

He is described as white, 5ft 9ins tall with a stocky build, short grey/white hair and moustache, and a 3ins scar on the right side of his neck. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, black Lyle & Scott duffel jacket, black and white Adidas Samba trainers and carrying a blue plastic bag.

Inspector Allan Symington said: “There is concern for Mark as it is out of character for him not to return home and that he appears not to have his medication with him.

“Anyone with information that can help us in finding Mark is asked to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.

Grant Thornton UK LLP, the leading business and financial advisory firm, has sponsored the production of ‘Pressure’ which opens at The Lyceum in Edinburgh this May.

The firm has offered its backing to bring the show, written by four time nominee and Olivier Award winning actor, David Haig, to life.

Its sponsorship has supported The Lyceum in developing everything from the set to costumes ahead of the play’s world premiere on Thursday 1 May 2014.

Described as an intense real-life thriller centred around the most important weather forecast in the history of warfare, ‘Pressure’ is the little known story of a Scot who changed the course of war, and our lives, forever.

Scottish meteorologist, Group Captain James Stagg, the son of a Dalkeith plumber, must advise General Eisenhower on when to give the order to send thousands of waiting troops across the Channel in Operation Overlord. In ‘Pressure’, thefuture of Britain, Europe and our relationship with the United States, rests on the shoulders of one reluctant Scotsman.

Ewen Fleming, Partner at Grant Thornton UK LLP in Scotland, has led on the sponsorship deal. He said:“The play’s storyline resonates with our brand ethos. Business decisions are rarely black and white and dynamic organisations know they need to apply both reason and instinct to decision making.

“This is what we assist our clients with every day helping them to unlock their potential for growth.

“The subject of this play, Scottish meteorologist Group Captain James Stagg, embodied the application of both reason and instinct in his decision making and as a result changed the course of history.”

The show is set in the summer of 1944 with every part of the set and props created from scratch.

Zuleika Brett, Development Director at Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, said:-“Without Grant Thornton UK LLP’s support we would really have struggled to put on the production.

“As a producing theatre, we make all our own productions – that includes designing and making our costumes, and building the sets in our workshops in Roseburn, we also hire the cast, commission the writers and use our technical teams to bring a play to life.

“As a registered charity 50% of our income is from public sector grants (City of Edinburgh Council and Creative Scotland) and the other 50% is generated through ticket sales, venue hire and sponsorship and donations.

“Therefore corporate supporters such as Grant Thornton UK LLP are vital in helping make our work possible.”

The funding provided by Grant Thornton UK LLP has been matched by Arts & Business Scotland.

The play will run from 1^st May -24^th May and tickets are available now at lyceum.org.uk or by calling 0131 248 4848.

Watch the trailer here:-

Rose Street fire – Canny Families – Bridgend Farm – Gumball Rally coming to Edinburgh – Dig in Bruntsfield opens on Thursday

A man had to be taken to hospital on Sunday following an early morning fire in his kitchen in Rose Street, Edinburgh.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) appliances responded from Tollcross and McDonald Road following a 999 call at 4.04am from a neighbour on hearing the smoke alarm sounding.

Crews quickly extinguished the fire and ventilated the property.  The cause of the fire was a pan of food left unattended.

One male casualty suffered with the effects of smoke inhalation and after being assessed by paramedics, was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “Many kitchen fires happen when people are not paying attention or they leave things unattended but there are several things you can do to prevent fires in the kitchen.

“Don’t leave pans unattended. Take them off the heat if you have to leave the room. Fire starts when your attention stops. When you have finished cooking, make sure the cooker or oven is turned off.

“The kitchen can be the most dangerous place in the home. Fire can cause damage not just to your property, but more seriously can put family and loved ones at risk.

“Thankfully this home was protected by a working smoke alarm. We urge every household to have working smoke alarms and test them every week. We provide free home fire safety visits and fit smoke alarms where required. If you or someone you know could benefit from a visit, please join Scotland’s fight against fire and request a visit by calling the SFRS freephone number 0800 0731 999, or by contacting their local fire station.”

A wide range of tips on how to keep yourself and your home safe from fire are available on the SFRS website.

***

Edinburgh Community Food are currently working in partnership with Changeworks and Citizens Advice Edinburgh to deliver a city wide programme which supports families with children to better manage rising energy/food costs and to maximise income. This project is funded by Big Lottery Support and Connect Fund.

The Canny Families Project involves a programme of affordable cooking courses across Edinburgh, with each course run over a six week period. With a focus on a different topic each week participants will not only learn practical cooking skills and how to make affordable and healthy family meals but will also improve their knowledge of nutrition and learn how to reduce food waste. Participants will also be offered affordable warmth advice from Changeworks as well as fuel poverty advice from Citizens Advice Edinburgh. The programme is open to parents with children under the age of 16. Childcare will be available for participants at all sessions.

We are now recruiting participants for upcoming courses at the following venues:

Castlebrae Community High School : Wednesday mornings from 9.30am until 11.30am from 30^th April 2014.

Pentland Community Centre: Friday mornings from 9.30am until 11.30am from 2^nd May 2014.

South Bridge Resource Centre: Thursday mornings from 9.30am until 11.30am from 29^th May 2014.

If this is something that you would like to find out more about please contact Stephanie at Edinburgh Community Food on 0131 467 7326, or by email: sscott@edinburghcommunityfood.org.uk

***

A deputation from Bridgend Inspiring Growth (BIG) will attend the Economy Committee this morning at the City Chambers to protest about the council’s apparent intention to sell Bridgend Farm and Steadings to a third party. The property was marketed a the end of last year when an unconditional offer of £205,000 was received. A separate offer from BIG asked for transfer of the property to them for nil consideration so that they could start fundraising on the basis of the asset.

BIG had thought they were to be the favoured party, and confirmed that they would then make an application to the Big Lottery Fund  and other funders for a grant to refurbish the house which they proposed to use as a social enterprise.  As well as grants they also set up their own fundraising. The property has been vacant for about 14 years, and marketing of the property delayed to allow BIG to raise funds or firm up on a funding proposal.

A spokesman explained:-“We have received support and funding from Big Lottery Fund Scotland’s Growing Community Asset’s programme to further develop plans for the renovation of Bridgend Farmhouse, on the Old Dalkeith Road. A community group in South Edinburgh we are hoping the City Council will hand over the derelict farmhouse on the edge of Craigmillar Castle Park so that it can be restored and opened as a centre for local communities specialising in outdoor and environmental activities.

This afternoon, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost joined UNISON City of Edinburgh branch in remembering the TUC organised International Workers Memorial Day – a commemoration of the workers across the world who are killed at work.

He made a short speech and laid a wreath at the foot of the Workers Memorial Tree in West Princes Street Gardens.

International Workers Memorial Day is supported by the The City of Edinburgh Council and The Scottish Goverment who flew their flags at half mast today.

This year they are remembering everyone who has died this year through work and marking the:

·         10th Anniversary of Stockline (9 dead);

·         30th Anniversary of Bhopal (25,000 dead);

·         1st anniversary of Rana Plaza (1,129 dead)

When compared to the rest of the world, Scotland has one of the highest populations of MS sufferers, per head of  population.

In trying to increase awareness of the debilitating disease, the MS Therapy Centre Lothian, situated in Leith, invited filmmaker Jason DiSilva to show his documentary, ‘When I Walk’ at Filmhouse Cinema, Lothian Road.

When I Walk documents DiSilva as he is diagnosed and lives with MS. Filmed over the course of five years from 2006-2011, it it follows him through his initial symptoms, diagnosis and how he uses his condition as inspiration for film making. Whilst being a painful, honest insight into this man’s talent and relationship being dragged from his grasp, DiSilva has also crafted something beautifully warm and funny. The people who surround this impeccable film maker, notably his girlfriend and mother, are the philosophical drivers of the film, trying to teach him how life should be lived as he is consumed by this confrontational disease.

DiSilva has persevered unbelievably well, his motor skills deteriorating during the making of When I Walk. Segments of the film study how he edits the film you are watching with the assistance of his girlfriend. It’s a disorientating experience; but intriguing and eyeopening nonetheless.

MS Awareness Week runs from today, April 28th to 4th May. Events will be taking place across the Lothian, Borders and Fife area all week, including coffee mornings and parliamentary debates as well as several others. For more information, visit the links below:

MS Awareness Week
Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre, Lothian
Leuchie House – a respite home for sufferers of MS

He has been described as the next Derren Brown – but forensic mind reader Colin Cloud says he is more like Sherlock Holmes. However you wish to describe him, one word springs to mind – genius.

He reads minds. He can read your mind. He reads it just like the imaginary book you just made up. The press release for his show said Uri Geller described him as “one of the greatest thought readers of all time”. Against that, it also said Ant and Dec screamed in disbelief at his act although, to be fair, the Geordie duo scream in disbelief most Saturday evenings. Most impressive, though, was that Cloud once left Jonathan Ross speechless, something than endeared me to Cloud even before I went to see his show in Edinburgh on Saturday. Having now witnessed the man from Harthill in action, I suspect Jonathan Ross wasn’t the only person to be left speechless.

The pre-show blurb described him as entertaining and endearing, and that’s exactly how I felt watching Cloud in action.

In the rather intimate atmosphere of Dynamic Earth, in the shadow of the Scottish Parliament building, Cloud astonished his audience with a mesmerising performance that really was mind-boggling. Some mind-readers can be rather serious about their profession which is understandable given it can be quite a serious subject. However, seconds after taking the stage, Cloud immediately struck a rapport with his audience with humorous quips which set the tone for a hugely entertaining evening. Naturally, this kind of show involves audience participation and, inevitably, there were some in Saturday evening’s audience who were hoping Cloud didn’t select them as part of his act. However, Cloud’s humour and affable approach set those he did select at ease and, unlike some other performers of his ilk, he didn’t make fun of them; rather he laughed with them and they with him.

Now, I won’t go into detail about the contents of the show for obvious reasons. Nonetheless, I guarantee anyone going to see the great man will be truly amazed by what they have witnessed. How he managed to delve into people’s minds the way he did was quite incredible to witness and brought gasps of astonishment from some in the hugely appreciative audience. At the end, just as Cloud was declaring his thanks to those who came along and the audience eased into their coats to head home, the great man delivered a pièce de résistance which nearly took my breath away.

On a Saturday evening when millions of people are slouched on the sofa watching Britain’s Got Talent on the small box, Colin Cloud proved without question that Scotland not only has talent – it has a gifted performer. Cloud will be appearing in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe from 31 July and throughout August. I urge you to go and see him – you literally won’t believe your eyes.

Edinburgh Reporter Rating – 5 Stars (as well as a rapidly rising one)

On Wednesday 30 April 2014 “Your” community shop in Muirhouse will have been open for a whole year!

Who can believe it, to think we we started off opening for three hours every other day we are now open 6 days a week. It has been a great year for the shop, we have welcomed in many groups and companies

We have had many fun days including the one above which sees numerous residents join in and have a good time.

When we teamed up with Pilton Community Health Project to introduce weekly cooking demonstrations we never thought for one second they would be so popular. (Don’t worry we are (trying) to bring them back!)

Our charity days have allowed us to raise over £1,000 in cash! – The cake sale and tombola are always a favorite

The main reason we opened the community shop was to offer local residents good quality affordable fruit and vegetables, but we have now teamed up with Edinburgh Community Food to ensure we have the best quality of fresh fruit and vegetables available. We accept daily deliveries from them. As we work with ECF we can also accept Fresh Start Vouchers.

We have a wealth of information on the walls, the latest plans of your new estate are also available to view and our volunteers are always on hand to help were possible.

To celebrate our success we are having a small party this Wednesday and you are invited!

We really want to hear what you think of the shop, how can we improve etc

Card Making sessions are:

Adults 1pm – 2.30pm

Children 3.30pm – 4.30pm

Tea, Coffee, Juice, Light refreshments and cake will be provided thanks to Centipede Project.

 You can have a look at the Community Shop’s Facebook page here.

 Submitted by Robert Pearson

Police are appealing for witnesses following a large-scale disturbance outside a Tollcross pub.

Officers were called to the International Bar in Brougham Place at around 7.30pm on Sunday 27th April after a brawl in the street that left two men injured, one seriously.

Two men have been arrested. They appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Monday) and were released on bail.

Chief Inspector Richard Horan said: “This was a large-scale incident outside a city centre pub and Police Scotland would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the fight or may have information regarding the identity of some of the other men involved.”

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

EVENT AT THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY LATER THIS WEEK

Whisky club opens its doors for Clans & Drams, a month-long celebration of flavour during Homecoming Scotland’s Whisky Month

Clans are famously associated with territorial battles and bloody skirmishes. But this May, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is putting ancient rivalries aside with the launch of Clans & Drams – a month-long celebration of ‘whisky clans’ based on flavours that takes place during Homecoming Scotland 2014’s Whisky Month.

The Society, which bottles single cask malt whiskies from a huge range of distilleries, has created 12 special whisky clans based on flavour profiles. Every traditional family clan has a reputation that defines them, with attributes such as bravery, honesty or dexterity. The Society have taken real clan mottos and personalities and attributed these to their flavour clans. Whether you’re the fiery ‘Spicy and Sweet’, or the majestic ‘Deep, Rich & Dried Fruits’, there is a whisky clan for everyone.

The Society has launched its Clans & Drams activities with the creation of a unique wooden kilt – hand-made by furniture maker Anselm Fraser from pieces of wood from a single cask of whisky. The sporran area of the kilt represents the Society’s 12 whisky clans – with each clan represented by a colour. The Society’s three venues in Edinburgh and London will also be transformed with whisky clan badges and an array of props.

As well as opening its doors to non-members throughout May and pairing its latest release of whiskies to the 12 flavour clans, The Society is hosting a number of events at its Edinburgh venues – these include:

– ‘Clan Whisky Feast’, Thursday 1st May, The Vaults – featuring unique kinships of delicious whisky and food pairings
– ’Clan cocktails’ night, Friday 2nd May, 28 Queen Street – hosted by Edinburgh cocktail innovator Stuart McCluskey of The Bon Vivant and The Devil’s Advocate fame
– Hauf ’n’ Hauf beer & whisky tastings, The Vaults (10th May) and 28 Queen Street 23 May) – the Society is teaming up with Inveralmond Brewery to revive the Scottish tradition of a half pint of beer and a dram of whisky

Mark van der Vijver, UK Sales Manager for The Scotch Malt Whisky Society said: “Here at the Society, we believe it’s really important for our members not to have any preconceptions based on traditional whisky regions or distillery brands when choosing a whisky; we encourage everyone to focus on the flavours within each whisky so they don’t miss out on discovering something they may not usually try. Clans & Drams embodies this concept by taking a playful approach to traditional clans and creating our own flavour-based whisky clans.”

A full list of the experiences throughout Clans & Drams month can be found on their website.

Photo courtesy of Rob McDougall.

Submitted by Jim Byers

Scotland lose out to Belgium and, favourites, South Korea beat India into submission

The stands had been gradually filling up during the day and, for ‘The Big One’ – or, at least, ‘The Most Anticipated One’ – they were almost full. Scotland v Belgium was next up on the pitch and hopes were high. However, Belgium had most of the early play, and forced a fine penalty corner save out of the defence early on. But it was the Scots who were first off the mark with a well worked goal. The ball was carried along the baseline and passed to Ali Bell. With her back to goal, the No 5 turned quickly on the ball and lashed the close-range shot past the Belgian ‘keeper for the first goal of the game. Belgium came back strongly and piled on the pressure.

They hit the back of the goal from a late penalty corner, but the umpires decreed the shot had gone too high and the goal was disallowed. That changed five minutes into the second half as another penalty corner for Belgium was put away by No 9, Liesolette van Lindt, who took advantage of Scottish ‘keeper, Nicky Cochrane’s ‘habit’ of going to ground early. Van Lindt then only had to deflect the initial strike over the sprawling Cochrane for the equaliser. The next 20 or so minutes of play saw no further scoring, but it was still end to end stuff, Scotland managing to exert a bit more pressure on the Belgian side than they had earlier in the game.

But it was the visiting side who scored the next goal. Picking the ball up on halfway, Barbara Nelen proceeded to evade all the defending players before slamming a reverse stick shot past Cochrane for the lead. They then lost a player to a yellow, which gave Scotland the edge and the final ten minutes saw a sustained assault on the Belgian goal. Two ‘nearlies’ went a-begging as first no 13, Ailsa Wylie just slid past a loose bal in front of goal and then captain, Linda Clement denied by a fine save. Two other chances were kept out by a magical performance from the Belgian ‘keeper to give them the match 2-1. Another injured player was forced off the field during this match as the Scottish was struck in the face by the ball. She did manage to make her own way to the sidelines – no footballer, then – but wasn’t able to continue.

And then it was time for the fourth and final match on a day of fantastic play. Unfortunately, the crowd had seen the game they came to see and gradually drifted off and, as a result, missed a dominant display by the predicted winners of the tournament, South Korea, as well as some late afternoon sunshine. Memories of the Olympic Football flag debacle were swept aside as the opening went off well and the match commenced. And it commenced with a bang. India had virtually no answer to the Korean’s powerful style of hockey.

Cross after cross was rained in on the Indian goal from all angles and it was only the athletic keeper and, it has to be said, the marginal lack of ability by the Korean’s to latch onto to the fierce hits that kept the match scoreless. In fact, such was the quality of the hitting that many men’s teams would have struggled to cope. However, it was India who took the early lead with a well struck shot from the edge of the area by Vandana Katariya. Two minutes later, parity was restored as No 10, Park Mi Hyun, took advantage of  a tangle between ‘keeper and defender to slot the ball home for the equaliser. And so the assault continued. India were struggling to cope, and two penalty corners in quick succession were rewarded as No 11, Kim Ok Ju converted the second attempt. The Indian ‘keeper, Savita Savita was played and absolute blinder, but pressure eventually told in the 28^th minute and South Korea found the net again from No 32, Cheon Eun Bi.

This was when the very poorly dealt with injury to Sushila Pukhrambam happened and details can be read in the Weekly Sports round-up, so won’t be repeated here. The second half was, again, an assault on the senses as attack after attack was fired in on the Indian goal but, somehow they were mostly kept out. A fourth goal was scored seven minutes in by Lee Young Sil, but how another four or five didn’t get chalked up is testament to the Indian defence, especially substitute goalie, Yogita Bali. The continual hammering eventually told, but it told on Korea as India managed to break away in the final 10 minutes and were awarded with a second goal, this one from Poonam Rani, but it was always going to be  a South Korean victory and the match ended with the score 4-2.

The hockey continues at the National Hockey centre all week with the Men’s tournament coming to a conclusion today (Monday) and the women going on until Sunday, with rest days on Tuesday and Friday. Hopefully, The Edinburgh Reporter can get back ‘on-site’ for another couple of days to keep abreast with proceedings.

Images from the matches will be available here…. sometime. (Eight matches over three days = lots of photos. Bear with us)  

USA beat Spain, but South Africa and Ireland draw

Sunday was the opening day of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Women’s Champion’s Challenge in Glasgow. Running alongside the men’s tournament, eight teams are involved – Scotland, Ireland, USA, Spain, South Africa, Belgium, India and South Korea and they are playing in two pools of four teams. The prize for the winners is a place at the top table competition – The Women’s FIH Champions Trophy in 2015.

The first match played was between USA and Spain and the USA started much the better with an early drive into the Spanish 25. Spain came back at them, but couldn’t break down the USA defence, which held fairly firm for the entire match. The first goal came five minutes before the break from No 16, Katie O’Donnell. O’Donnell fought her way into the ‘D’ and struck a reverse stick shot past the Spanish ‘keeper, Maria Lopez de Eguilaz Zubiria, for the opener. The second half was much of the same, with USA pressing and Spian defending. The breakthrough came in the 47^th minute. Despite two fine saves by the Spanish ‘keeper from penalty corners, a shot from open play found its way into the net for the second goal. Another open play goal was scored by Melissa Gonzales less than ten minutes later to give USA a 3-0 lead. The final ten minutes of the match were dominated by Spain, as the USA settled back to defend their lead, and in the 62^nd minute, the reward came with penalty corner goal which was scored by Maria Gomez to leave the final score 3-1 to the USA.

South Africa v Ireland was the second match on and early pressure from South Africa caught Ireland on the back foot and 11 minutes in, No 30, Sulette Damons had an easy tap in following a fine attacking run through the centre of the Irish defence. They were nearly on the score board again after another six minutes of play, but No 19, Ayeisha McFerran, in the Irish goal forced the play wide and the sliding Celia Evans saw the ball pass agonisingly past the post. Ireland then started to get the measure of the South African attack, and managed to force RSA’s ‘keeper into a fine, late save to ensure the half finished finished with that 1-0 lead to RSA. It was during the first half that Ireland’s No 10, Shirley McCay was injured. Diving to block a shot, she collected the attackers follow through full in the face. From the sidelines it looked a very serious injury, and the player was taken from the field to be treated as the officials cleaned up the spilt blood from the pitch. The second half started much more brightly for Ireland and they exerted a great deal of pressure on the South African goal. Their reward came in the 44^th minute when Anna O’Flanagan fired home a cross field pass from Naomi Carroll to draw the sides level. A few minutes later, however, South Africa were back on the score sheets, and back in the lead, with a goal from a crossed ball, deflected into the net by Dirkie Chamberlain. Ten minutes later, the scores were level again as another Irish attack was presented with a penalty corner, which No 18, Audrey O’Flynn converted for the equaliser. Despite the rest of the match being a to-and-fro affair, neither team could secure a clear-cut chance at goal and the match finished 2-2.

Images from the matches will be available here…. sometime. (Eight matches over three days = lots of photos. Bear with us)

There are so many interesting things to do in Edinburgh this week!  Here are some to choose from:

Monday – the Woman Without Secrets:

Spiralling Anxiety: Hysteria Transformed in the Work of Louise Bourgeois: a talk by Elizabeth Manchester in the Studio, Modern Art One (Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art): 12.45 to 1.30.  Free, but please call 0131 624 6200 to check details before setting off.

Tuesday – books, talks,  and a question asked by  many people: ‘What is Grammar For?’

Leo Du Feu introduces his new book, ‘Landscapes & Birds of Scotland: An Artist’s View’ at Blackwell’s, South Bridge, 6.30pm.  Free: call Blackwell’s on 0131 622 8218 to book your place. (Leo will also be exhibiting at Bon Papillon Gallery with Susan Smith from 2nd May to 1st June.)

Edinburgh’s Trams & Buses: memories of the city’s transport with local author Gavin Booth: Piershill Library 6.30pm.  To book your free place call the library on 0131 529 5685 or email them: piershill.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Professor Nikolas Gisborne gives his inaugural lecture, ‘What’s Grammar For?’ at the University of Edinburgh, Lecture Theatre 175, Old Court, South Bridge at 5.15pm.  Free.

What is socially responsible investment?  A panel discussion chaired by Dr Kieran Oberman from the Just World Institute: 5.30 – 8.30pm at G.07 Meadows Lecture Theatre, Doorway 4, Medical School Teviot, Teviot Place.  To book a free place, follow this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

JD Fergusson and Margaret Morris: The Dance Behind the Movement.  Alice Strang, Senior Curator at the Gallery of Modern Art, will be in conversation with Sara Lockwood and Kay Morrison, practitioners of the dance technique developed by Fergusson’s partner, the dance pioneer Margaret Morris.  12.45 – 1.30pm in the Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Gardens Entrance, Scottish National Gallery (not the Modern Art Gallery) To obtain a free ticket call in at the Information Desk in the National Gallery, The Mound.

Wednesday – Art and the politics of art, the Qur’an, and – just Who is Tom Ditto?

Titian in Ten – a free, unticketed, ten minute talk delivered by NGS staff.  2pm at the Scottish National Gallery.

Tradfest & Blackwell’s Edinburgh present Alexander Moffat and Alan Riach, who will talk about their new book ‘Arts of Independence‘ in which they ‘take a hard look at the most neglected aspect of the argument for Scotland’s distinctive national identity: the arts.’  6.30 – 7.30pm.  To book your free ticket call Blackwell’s on 0131 622 8218

Professor Angelika Neuwirth: The Qur’an as a Text of Late Antiquity: Room G2, 19 George Square (University of Edinburgh): 5.30 – 7pm: free and unticketed.

Who is Tom Ditto?  Find out by coming along to meet the author of this book, Danny Wallace, at the Mitre Bar, Royal Mile, 6.30-8.30pm. Danny Wallace is a Sunday Times best-selling author and a columnist for ShortList magazine; his previous books include ‘Join Me’ and ‘Yes Man’, the latter being made into a hugely successful film with Jim Carrey in the leading role.  Who is Tom Ditto? has been described as ‘Gone Girl meets Nick Hornby with a dash of the IT Crowd on the side.’  For more details, call Waterstones Ocean Terminal on 0131 554 7732.

Thursday – busiest day of the week, so take a break with the Wild Myrtles

At Morningside Library Lin Anderson will introduce her new private detective Patrick de Courvoisier as he investigates The Case of the Black Pearl.  6.30-7.45pm.  Free but please call the library in advance to book a place, as seating is limited: 0131 529 5654 or email: morningside.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Meet author Lindsay Davis at Leith Library, Ferry Road 10.30 – 12.  To book a free place call 0131 529 5517.

Lindsay Davis is also appearing at the Central Library, George IV Bridge, 7-8pm.  She will talk about her Roman detective Falco, her new quick read ‘A Cruel Fate’, and her latest novel ‘Enemies at Home’ which was published earlier this month.  To book your free ticket, follow this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Doug Johnstone launches his new novel, ‘The Dead Beat’ an Edinburgh-based thriller, at Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson Loan, Quartermile (just off the Meadows.)  A freelance journalist, musician and songwriter, Johnstone is the author of four books.  Call 0131 229 2902 for more information.

Blackwell’s presents Patrick Richardson for the launch of his new book, In Search of Landfall ‘one man’s search for the answers to the questions we are all faced with,: who are we, what are we doing here and where are we going?’  Richardson writes about his childhood in 1950s Edinburgh, his life as a radical student here in the 1960s, his experience of the Amsterdam counterculture in the 70s and 80s, and his encounters with such diverse characters as Indira Gandhi and Robin Cook, Norman McCaig and Jorge Luis Borges.  To book your free ticket call Blackwell’s on 0131 622 8218 or call in to the front desk of the shop.

Books in Focus: Wassily Kandinsky: the works of the Russian born artists and pioneer of abstraction,, examining copies of Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) and Klange (Sounds.)  11.30-12.30 Modern Art Two.  Places are free but limited and must be booked on 0131 624 6268 or by emailing: gmainfo@nationalgalleries.org.  One of a series of sessions focusing on artists’ books held in the special collections of the Gallery of Modern Art.

Easel Sketching on the main gallery floor of the Scottish National Gallery.  Inspired by the Titian exhibition and working from a costumed figure.  Free, no booking required.

Why Penelope was Right about Music, Marriage and the Gods: What it means to be a person in Homer – Professor Edward Mendelson gives the Isabel Dalhousie Lecture.  6.15-7.45, St Cecilia’s Hall, Niddry Street.  Free, but booking essential via this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Will Scottish Independence Help Us to Create Better Leaders for Business?  An opportunity to put your questions direct to leading figures on both sides of the argument.  This is a joint event with ACCA and the Institute of Directors.  6.30 – 7.45pm, Auditoriu, University of Edinburgh Business School, Buccleuh Place.  Free but registration required via this link: www.business-school.ed.ac.uk

The unaccompanied voices of Edinburgh’s Wild Myrtles bring you songs of love, sweet lullabies and songs to lift the spirit – from Germany to Georgia, Sweden to Shetland.  6-6.30pm, National Portrait Gallery, Queen Street. Free, unticketed.

Alice Greenway will launch her new book,  The Bird Skinner, at Waterstones West End (Princes Street.)  6pm, free tickets available from the shop.  More details on 0131 226 2666.

Friday – winding down with one more book, and some sketching

Easel Sketching at the Scottish National Gallery – see Thursday for details.

Blackwell’s, South Bridge presents the launch of  ‘The Oversight‘, a new gothic fantasy novel for adults. Author Charlie Fletcher is a screenwriter and children’s author living in Edinburgh.  His children’s books the Stoneheart trilogy and Far Rockaway have received great critical acclaim.  The oversight is ‘ a dark Dickensian fantasy spinning a tale of witch-hunters, magicians, mirror-walker and the unlikeliest of heroes drawn from the depths of British folklore.’  6.30-7.30pm: ticketed but free – call Blackwell’s on 0131 622 8218 to book your place, or call in to the front desk at the shop to collect a ticket.

Saturday – The Power of Portraiture

The Power of Portraiture: Portrait Gallery Thematic Tours.  This month, Susanna Kerr, former Senior Curator, will demonstrate how symbols, style and composition in portraiture capture the essence of a person, revealing their status, fame and profession. 2 – 2.45pm and 3 – 3.45pm.  Free and unticketed.

Sunday – Under 12?  Make a masterpiece.

Art Maker Club at the Scottish National Gallery, the Mound.  Make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.  Drop-in event between 2 and 4pm for children aged 4-12.  Free, sponsored by the Friends of the National Gallery.

There must be something here for you whatever your taste – so pick an event (or ten), go along, and support the writers, artists, singers and other Great Minds that make the city such a stimulating and exciting place to be. Then tell us how you got on!

Spartans Women returned to winning ways with an emphatic 16-0 win over Forfar Farmington at Ainslie Park.

A double hat-trick from Sarah Ewens, taking her career total to 83 from 103 games for the club the pick of the goal scoring feast.

Post-match, an ebullient Ewens said, “I’ve been struggling a wee bit to get goals this season but today has definitely helped boost the confidence.  At half-time we knew we couldn’t afford to be complacent and needed to go out and complete the job and all credit to the girls, we played very well as a unit today, including Rachel with her penalty save.”

Spartans started off with intent and after a couple of close calls from Montgomery hitting the bar before Briggs fired over it.

Referee Erin Cunningham was the unlucky recipient of as size 5 to the back of the head when she inadvertently blocked a Montgomery strike.  The whistler required a moment to gather her thoughts before continuing with the game.

The opening goal of the afternoon came in the 11^th minute after Ewens made her way to the bye-line before pulling the ball back for Pagliarulo to tap in.

Forfar almost immediately responded after Hamilton bundled over Gallacher in the box.  After dusting herself down, the Forfar striker stepped up to take the kick however Rachel Harrison correctly guessing to pull off the save.

From there, it was all one-way traffic with Sarah Ewens scoring two goals in as many minutes.  Kerry Montgomery selflessly crossed the ball to put in Ronaigh Douglas however Keeper Brannan was equal to the task.

Ewens completed her hat-trick on the half-hour mark, followed by Ciara Barnes heading home a Louise Mason pass on the box.  Danni Pagliarulo let fly from a full 30 yards to lift the ball high into the net to make it 6-0 at half-time.

After the break, Spartans refused to take their feet off the gas as Ewens grabbed her double hat-trick whilst Montgomery took her tally to four.  Pagliarulo grabbed her hat-trick whilst Alana Marshall got in on the scoring action too.  The pick of the second half goals perhaps coming from Steph Briggs following some neat one-two play in midfield before the right back grabbed her first goal for the Club.

Final Score: Spartans 16-0 Forfar Farmington

Danni Pagliarulo’s hat-trick was her first for the club and she dedicated it to manager, Debbi McCulloch. “Debbi was giving her some stick recently about not scoring but it’s good to be on the score sheet and I’ll dedicate that to her for sticking by me.  The gaffer has been reminding me that I’ve been firing them in at training but not on the pitch, so I’m happy to repay her back for her belief in me today.”

The result was a welcome boost to Manager Debbi McCulloch, who was delighted with her team’s performance.

“It was an extremely professional performance today by the players however I don’t particularly like winning by those size of margins.  That said, it was good to see six players grab goals and all from open play.

“We switched off celebrating our opening goal and we have to thank Rachel for pulling off a great save from the penalty and keeping a clean sheet and from there we controlled the game and got everything we deserved from it.”

Police in North Edinburgh are urging local youngsters and their parents to heed a safety warning following a recent road accident in the area that has left a 15-year-old in a critical condition in hospital.

Enquiries remain ongoing and police are appealing for witnesses after two males riding on a motorbike collided with a car in West Pilton Gardens at around 5.40pm on Tuesday 22nd April.

Inspector David Happs, who is based at Drylaw Police Station, said: “The dangers in riding a high-powered motorcycle without the relevant training, experience or protective headgear are clear.

“We have charged several young people over recent months in connection with the dangerous and antisocial riding of motorbikes in the area, but a small minority of local young people continue to cause disruption to their local community.

“We are committed to tackling this antisocial and dangerous activity and officers have this week visited a number of local young people and their parents to reiterate this safety message and highlight the danger these young people are placing themselves and others in.”

Police Scotland acknowledges the strong feelings in the local community regarding the motorcycle issue and Inspector Happs is keen to reassure residents that the force is continuing efforts to identify those involved in such incidents and is urging members of the public to report any relevant information to the police.

He added: “Given the increased risk to the rider and other members of the public, the circumstances in which we will pursue a motorcycle in a police vehicle are rare. However, we have and will continue to make appropriate use of the police helicopter, other specialist and plain-clothed police resources, as well as CCTV and other evidential opportunities to identify the riders and investigate any offences committed.

“Many of the bikes involved are stolen from elsewhere in the city and I would also encourage motorcycle owners to take what reasonable steps they can to prevent their bike from being stolen. We continue to respond to calls from the public providing information on the location of hidden motorcycles, and we work with local Council teams to locate the bikes to prevent further misuse.

“There is a wide range of diversionary activities and facilities in the local area for young people and we work closely with these groups, the City of Edinburgh Council, Total Craigroyston and other agencies to develop longer term strategies to reduce the offending behaviour and danger to the local community.”

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

Rugby by John Preece

Three first half tries for Glasgow gave them a lead that Edinburgh got near but couldn’t manage to get past in the second leg of the 1872 Cup at Scotstoun. 11-0 up after 20 minutes, Glasgow’s normally strong defence came in for some severe punishment and Willem Nel drove over in the corner for Edinburgh’s first try. They crossed the line again, but the try was disallowed. However, Laidlaw kicked the penalty to take the score t0 11-10. Glasgow then scored their second try, before another Laidlaw penalty to make it 16-13. The hosts then scored their third try just on the break to leave the field 23-13 ahead.

Glasgow scored their fourth try just after the break during a second yellow card period for Edinburgh. The visitors then scored another try, through Matt Scott to bring the game to 30-20, but Glasgow sealed the win with another from Rob Harley to bring up the 37 points. Edinburgh weren’t quite finished and two late tries, from Tomas Leonardi and – from half way – a first comeback try from Tim Visser. But, it wasn’t quite enough and Glasgow took the win 37-34 and the Cup, and, as a result, went to second place in the table.

Football

SPFL

Hearts won the last Edinburgh derby of the season thanks to two Callum Paterson headers in the first half. Jordon Forster pulled one back for Hibs in the second half but Gary Locke’s men held on to secure the three points.

After the game Locke praised double Paterson. He said: “Callum’s been great. He’s played all over the place. Coming through the youth system, he played every position possible, apart from goalkeeper. Callum, who sees his long-term future at right-back, has done very well there and we’re delighted that he got two goals for us.

“We played well first half. Second half, Hibs were the better side.

“We’ve showed a different side to our character. In the last month, we’ve won games and played really well. Today was more about character and digging in and I think you saw that in abundance.

“Hibs have got good players, they’ve got a good management team. Everybody’s writing them off. I knew that they would make it difficult for us.

“They did make the game physical. I’m delighted that our players have stood up to that because maybe earlier in the season that wouldn’t have been the case.

“You can definitely see that we’re physically better and fitter and the younger lads are handling themselves a lot better now.”

Scottish Sun Lowland League

Dalbeattie Star 4-0 Vale of Leithen

Selkirk 3-6 Whitehill Welfare

The King Cup, Third Round

Gretna 2008 2-0 Easthouses Lily

Central Taxis East of Scotland League Cup, Preliminary Round

Berwick Rangers EOS 9-1 Hawick Royal Albert

Central Taxis East of Scotland League, Premier Division

Stirling University EOS 2-1 Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale

Central Taxis East of Scotland League Cup, First Round

Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale P-P Leith Athletic

Craigroyston 3-3 Edinburgh University (Craigroyston won 5-4 on penalties)

Hibernian EOS 3-1 Berwick Rangers EOS

Stirling University EOS P-P Spartans EOS

Central Taxis East of Scotland League, First Division

Kelso United 1-2 Burntisland Shipyard

Peebles Rovers 4-0 Ormiston

King Cup, Third Round

Gretna 2008 2-0 Easthouses Lily

Women’s Football

Rangers 3-0 Hibernian

Spartans 16-0 Forfar Farmington

Manager Debbi McCulloch, who was delighted with her team’s performance and told the club website: “It was an extremely professional performance today by the players however I don’t particularly like winning by those size of margins.  That said, it was good to see six players grab goals and all from open play.

“We switched off celebrating our opening goal and we have to thank Rachel for pulling off a great save from the penalty and keeping a clean sheet and from there we controlled the game and got everything we deserved from it.”

Speedway

The bad weather at the Armadale track meant the postponement of the visit from Sheffield Tigers this weekend.

No date has been fixed for the rearranged fixture.

The Monarchs fans had been looking forward to seeing new signings Joe Screen and Doug Wyer.

Hockey by John Preece

The Glasgow National Hockey Centre is playing host to two tournaments this week, the FIH 4-Nations for the men and the 8-Nations Champions Challenge for the women.

The men’s tournament started on Friday and full match reports can be viewed in the ‘Sports’ section.

The women’s tournament started on the Sunday and four thrilling matches were played under mostly grey skies, but that didn’t prevent the crowds turning out to see Scotland just loose to Belgium 2-1. In the other three matches, USA beat Spain 3-1, South Africa drew 2-2 with Ireland and South Korea beat India 4-2. A full report will appear in the ‘Sports’ section later on.

Just to outline the dangers of hockey, however… One of the Irish players was carted off when she was struck on the head by a South African stick, a Scottish player was hit on the nose by the ball and – probably the worst incidents – an Indian player was hit on the forehead with the from close range, by a full-blooded strike by one of the Koreans. She went to hospital – eventually – as one of the most pathetic responses to a serious injury was witnessed by all present. Only the Indian team doctor and one of the coaches attended the player – who was lying, screaming, on the pitch – and the first tournament ‘official’ to arrive was the girl to wash the blood off the pitch! It took several minutes to get a stretcher organised and even longer – perhaps 20-25 minutes –  for an ambulance to arrive. Luckily – if that’s the right word! – the hit was above her eyes. Any lower and serious damage could have been done to the player’s eyes, nose or jaw/mouth area. One spectator, sitting over 30 metres away, remarked that he thought the ball had hit her stick! The Edinburgh Reporter photographer was less than five…….

So come on Scottish Hockey – SORT IT OUT!

Photo by John Preece

http://www.photoboxgallery.com/jlp-photography

Mortonhall Petition – Portobello High School – Scotsman moving to Queensferry Road – Edinburgh Marathon – RNLI Queensferry

A new petition has been started by one of the families affected by the ‘babies ashes’ scandal which you will find online here.

The petition initiated by Lorraine Marshall demands that the First Minister orders a Public Enquiry into the matter. This appears to rest on a belief that the report by Dame Elish Angiolini will have been ‘censored’ by the time it is published; a belief reported by The Edinburgh Evening News in their story published on Friday.

A petition demanding a public enquiry was first lodged last year and that one attracted over 4,000 signatures. This second petition will undoubtedly attract many signatories too. This is an emotive subject which strikes at the very heart of bereavement and bereaved parents. It goes without saying that this is a topic which requires sensitive treatment.

The report which the council chief executive commissioned will be published and delivered to affected parents  and families as well as the wider public later this week. Council Leader Andrew Burns explained to The Edinburgh Reporter that while there will be some necessary redactions made to the report it is his express that these are kept to an absolute minimum.

***

Proceedings relating to The City of Edinburgh Council (Portobello Park) Bill in The Scottish Parliament continued last week with more evidence being brought to the parliamentary committee by the council and by objectors.

One of the objectors, Bill Flockhart, commented on the loss of amenity due to the use of some of the park as a site for the proposed new Portobello High School.  Mr Flockhart explained that synthetic pitches will not replace the park where he and his children all perfected their sporting skills. He bemoaned the fact that the council has allowed the park to become run down over the years, and explained that there is now only one usable bench in Portobello Park.

The council spokesman replied that the regime for maintenance of the park is exactly the same as other parks in the city, and he confirmed that the new park area, planned as part of the development, will definitely be delivered.

Another objector, Beverley Klein, mentioned that there are many children who use the park for a ‘spontaneous play’ area at the moment, and queried whether the council had taken this into account in their future plans for Portobello Park. She mentioned that many children in the area are ‘socially deprived’ and live in low income households meaning that they cannot access play areas further afield.

The council spokesman questioned whether there is much spontaneous play on the park, and claimed he had not witnessed any on his visits to the area. He explained that there will be two areas for play – one is the size of a football pitch and is bounded by Hope Lane and Milton Road – and the other would be made up by the new 3G pitches which will be used by the school or which will be bookable or available for use on a ‘casual access’ basis by others.

Ms Klein also asked about the removal of mature trees in the park, but the council spokesman Billy MacIntyre explained this was due to Dutch Elm disease, and not for any other reason.

The meeting on 23 April 2014 lasted for 4 hours and you can watch all of the proceedings here.

***

The Scotsman is set to move out of Barclay House on Holyrood Road and will relocate in Orchard Brae House, The Sunday Herald confirmed yesterday. Rumours have abounded about potential locations, including  empty offices in St Andrew Square as a possible new home for The Edinburgh Evening News, but that is still to be confirmed.

The Edinburgh Reporter has also heard that there could be some logistical problems with the move as the telecommunications set up might take about six months to sort out. They need many  phone lines for all the staff from journalists to classified ad staff. The agents JLL introduce the building to potential tenants as “iconic”.

“Orchard Brae House is an iconic landmark building on Queensferry Road, a main arterial route accessing Edinburgh City Centre. Conveniently situated 10 minutes walk from the city’s West End, Orchard Brae House offers seven floors of virtually column free floor space with the upper floors delivering stunning panoramic views across the city.

“With 14 bus services stopping adjacent to the building, Orchard Brae House is extremely well connected to all parts of the city via Edinburgh’s extensive public transport network. Whether it’s the M8/M9, Edinburgh Airport, or Haymarket railway station – Queensferry Road allows quick and easy access to the wider region.

Orchard Brae House has been comprehensively refurbished.”

As you can see from our photo there is also a little cycle parking.

Rockstar North, the inventors of Grand Theft Auto are due to take up residence in Barclay House this summer.

***

Last chance saloon for those of you wanting to enter the Edinburgh Marathon. Entries close on 30 April. You can enter by clicking here.

***

Another call out for the RNLI at South Queensferry yesterday when a jet ski packed in leaving its owner to swim ashore.

The lifeboat was summoned to tow the jet ski back to the Hawes Pier.

Art.co.uk, announced this week the three finalist schools in the UK for Art Sparks Learning^TM, an international programme that supports art education to help inspire the artists of tomorrow. Flora Stevenson’s Primary School have made it into the final as the only Scottish school in the international campaign. Art.co.uk have awarded them with 18 pieces of their favourite framed artworks to display around the school in recognition of their achievement to date.

The pupils’ engagement in the selection of these artworks has stimulated a great enthusiasm in Art and Design. This interest has resulted in their planning and delivering additional art workshops across all stages and ages, which are led by local artists. Plus, as a direct result of this development they have now created the “Rainbow Room” a dedicated art space for the whole school to share.

From now until May 23, 2014, family, friends, community members and visitors to Art.co.uk are invited to vote for their favourite school on the Art Event webpage.

A spokesperson for the school said:-“The school with the most votes will receive a grand prize – of £750 in art supplies. This resource would make a massive positive impact on our school’s ability to provide exceptionally high quality art and design lessons.  To be able to continue to embrace the talents of local artists and have the materials to give pupils greater freedom of expression would be amazing.”

Help support the artists of tomorrow by visiting the website and voting for Flora Stevenson Primary School. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, May 27, 2014.

Much has been written about Hearts 15 point deduction in the SPFL Premiership and the embargo on signing new players meaning relegation was likely from the start of the season. This was confirmed a couple of weeks ago and Hearts will play next season in the Championship. However, Hibernian’s astonishing dip in form since the start of the year has opened up the possibility of the Easter Road club joining their Edinburgh rivals in football’s second flight next season, a possibility enhanced by Hearts recording their third league win of the season over Hibs – and their fourth in total if you include the League Cup win at the same venue. While Hearts will remain at the foot of the league until the season’s end, 11th place in the league will mean a nervy two-legged play-off against a Championship team for the right to play in the Premiership next season – and Hibernian are slipping closer to this spot with every passing week.

Two goals in four minutes towards the end of the first half from Callum Paterson put Hearts on their way to victory and although Hibs Jordon Forster pulled one back in the second half, it was too little too late for Terry Butcher’s side.

The game was preceded by a minute’s applause in recognition of two icons of the 1970s and 80s with Edinburgh connections. Politician Margo MacDonald – a passionate supporter of Hibernian – passed away at the beginning of the month while Hearts legend Sandy Jardine who, with Alex MacDonald was responsible for the rebirth of Hearts in the early 1980s, died on Thursday.

However, it has to be said the game itself couldn’t match the class of those two individuals. Misplaced passes, crunching tackles and aimless long punts seemed to be the order of the day – sadly, an all too common feature of recent Edinburgh derbies. Hibs Kevin Thomson had the only effort on goal of note early on – but even this was wayward and rather aimless.
Hearts seemed content to let Hibs come at them but the home side’s nerves were there for all to see although good play from Sam Stanton delivered a cross into the Hearts penalty box only to find there was no one to accept his fine offer. Moments later, Hibs Jason Cummings headed Liam Craig’s cross wide before the youngster tried a long-range effort which Hearts keeper Jamie MacDonald needed two attempts to gather.

Stanton was the one player who looked threatening although it has to be said the game could have been played without a ball and few people would have noticed. Just when it looked like the first half would be goalless, Hearts broke the deadlock eight minutes before half-time. A fine corner from Billy King found Callum Paterson and the utility player’s downward header fell beyond the despairing Hibs keeper Ben Williams to give Hearts the lead – and secure Hearts 500th goal in the Edinburgh derby. It was Hearts first meaningful attempt on goal in the game.
Cue bedlam from the sold-out Hearts end while those Hibs fans who had made the effort to support their team collectively folded their arms and doubtless thought ‘here we go again.’ A feeling intensified just four minutes later when, following a free-kick expertly delivered by Kevin McHattie, Paterson rose high again to head home Hearts second goal. This was the signal for some of the home support to head for the exits as Hearts went in at the break two goals to the good.

Hibs manager Terry Butcher may well have used a few choice words at the interval as his charges looked at lot more determined in the early stages of the second half. Alex Harris’ shot was deflected wide before Jordon Forster’s header was cleared off the goalline. Kevin Thomson then had a chance as Hearts seemed to retreat into a shell. However, Gary Locke’s side did eventually move forward and McHattie rattled in a fierce long-range shot which was well saved by Williams.
Liam Craig’s free-kick then brought a fine save from the Hearts keeper and there certainly seemed more goalmouth action in the early stages of the second half than most of the first. With 20 minutes to go, the home side were given a lifeline when Kevin Thomson’s free-kick caught out the Hearts defence allowing Ryan McGivern to cross to Jordon Forster who headed past MacDonald. 2-1 to the visitors and now it was very much game on.

Kevin Thomson then found substitute Duncan Watmore but the Hibs player was denied by Hearts Australian defender Dylan McGowan. With the home team piling on the pressure for what would be a crucial equaliser, the Hibs fans were ready to celebrate with just five minutes left. Hearts failed to clear the ball which fell into the path of James Collins. Sadly for Hibs, their £200,000 striker completely missed the ball and the chance was gone.

With six minutes of stoppage time added on it was Hearts who had the game’s final chance but Ryan Stevenson’s effort on goal went wide. Seconds later, the final whistle blew and Hearts supporters celebrated yet another win in the Edinburgh derby. For Hibernian, it was another bitter pill to swallow, particularly as their team now face a tension-laden final three games to avoid the dreaded relegation play-offs.

Hibs: Williams, McGivern, Nelson, Harris, Robertson, Craig, Maybury, Forster, Stanton, Cummings, Thomson.

Hearts: MacDonald; Paterson, McGowan, Wilson, McHattie; King, Robinson, Holt, Nicholson, Stevenson; Carrick

Referee: Bobby Madden

Att: 14,806

Top man: Hearts Jason Holt

We are well-used to traffic diversions and disruptions in Edinburgh, and now the Commonwealth Games will affect us with the diving competitions being held at the Royal Commonwealth Pool. Detailed plans for traffic management around the area during this summer’s Commonwealth Games have been revealed this week.

The Edinburgh Reporter thinks it might be a good idea for you to get on your bike or walk to the pool, and there will undoubtedly be a Lothian Bus to take you within walking distance too. But the events will of course affect local residents in the area.

The announcement from Games organisers coincides with a round of information sessions which will be held during May to cover specific plans around what traffic, travel and parking options are available across all Commonwealth Games venues.

In partnership with the Get Ready Glasgow campaign, The City of Edinburgh Council will be issuing an invitation in late April to local residents and businesses to attend a drop-in day on 26 May. At this session, Games officials will host a workshop on crowd management plans for the Royal Commonwealth Pool and will answer key questions on parking and diversions.

Temporary traffic management measures being brought in for the Games are intended to protect residents and businesses around competition venues from informal spectator parking and ensure Games related traffic, including athletes and officials, are able to get to venues in time.

They also manage the flow of spectators to and from venues, ensuring that they arrive and exit events as quickly and as safely as possible and have been designed to make sure that walking, cycling and public transport are the best ways to get to the Games encouraging spectators leave their cars at home.

Within 10 minutes’ walk of a venue, parking restrictions are likely to be in force in order to protect residents and businesses. Some restrictions and diversions may also be in place within 20 minutes.

To help businesses with their planning, a map have been produced to provide a guide of the traffic management and parking measures that will be in place for the Royal Commonwealth Pool in the run up to and during the Games.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “It is our priority to ensure the safety of the thousands of spectators set to flock to the Royal Commonwealth Pool this summer, and to reduce any disruption to local traffic.

“The drop in day in May will be an opportunity for local residents and business owners to air any concerns and to find out more about changes to roads and parking in the Southside and Newington areas.

“It is important that we continue to work with Glasgow 2014 to make sure travel to and from the competition event runs smoothly.”

Michael Renshaw, Glasgow 2014 Director of Transport, said: “The success of the Games doesn’t start and end inside the Games venues, we want to make sure that everyone attending to the Games is able to get around the city quickly, safely and easily.

“We are encouraging spectators to walk, cycle, use public transport or use a park-and-ride site to the venue. The measures in the Local Area Traffic Management and Parking plans are integral to making this as easy as possible for spectators.

“We are also committed to making sure that the people who live, work and operate businesses in this fantastic host city are able to go about their days with minimal disruption. This is central to all our Transport plans.”

Anthony Horowitz has said of Roald Dahl, ‘He finds the adult in the child and the child in the adult, and sticks the knife into both.’  On Wednesday night at Blackwell’s, Jenni Fagan introduced Expect the Unexpected, Dahl’s second volume of short stories, as her choice from the World Book Night 2014 selection.

Fagan, herself a prize-nominated poet and celebrated author of The Panoptican, joined Jim Crumley and Angela Jackson, each of whom had been asked to talk about one WBN book and one of their own personal favourites.

Fagan explained that she has loved Dahl’s work since reading him as a child, seeing his anarchic, funny books as a bridge between children’s and adults’ fiction.  There is, she says, a certain justice in his stories; they are moral but never preaching.  In this collection she especially likes ‘Peg’, the tale of a man hurrying through a foreboding city in a vain attempt to outrun his fate.  Inspired to find out more, Fagan discovered that Dahl had seen a man with a white face running through New York, where he was then living with his family; from this small event had grown a story.

Fagan’s own recommendation was Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand Celine, a novel with such a dense and bizarre plot that ‘no modern publisher would consider it.’  Celine, who fought on the front in World War I, and whose sometimes antisemitic views caused much controversy, was, says Fagan, a stylist who changed the way people wrote, his novel ‘a big adventure story that was the start of nihilism.’

Jim Crumley has been described by the LA Times as ‘the best nature writer working in Britain today.’  A former journalist, he is the author of 26 books: his latest, The Eagle’s Way, has just been published by Saraband; he also writes poetry and contributes to radio programmes., but is not a fan of  much ‘wildlife TV’, which he feels crams years of observation into thirty minutes of distorting screen time.  Crumley introduced his WBN choice, John Boyne’s The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, with a disclaimer: he doesn’t like war, and sees the constant revisiting of it, and particularly the current year-long commemoration of World War I, as a peculiarly British thing.  He would never write about war, nor buy most books about it, but  for him The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas brings the focus down to a few human beings and ‘cuts through the chaos of war.’

When Crumley opened the novel, its language sounded strangely familiar.  He read out the first paragraph of  Winnie the Pooh to the audience to show how Boyne seems to replicate AA Milne’s rhythms and devices: capital letters are used in Significant Phrases, and both Pooh and Bruno’s childish misuse of words gives their thoughts greater resonance, as when Bruno refers to the Fuhrer as ‘the Fury.’  Both stories, says Crumley, are written from a child’s level; Bruno and Pooh are both small, and share a childlike sensibility to their worlds. Bruno walks around the Auschwitz perimeter fence, sees the boy in his striped pyjamas, realises that everyone inside the enclosure is similarly dressed, but does not know why.  He sees the smoking chimney but does not know what it is.  Boyne somehow takes a terrible story and makes it into one that grips children;  Crumley says that he is still unsure whether he sees Boyne as brave or stupid, but he nevertheless highly recommends this novel.

Ring of Bright Water was made into a blockbusting film when I was a child; I never went to see it after my friend told me the otter died. (I had the same trouble with Black Beauty and Bambi.)  Crumley is made of sterner stuff; he first read Gavin Maxwell’s book at the age of 18; ‘by the time I was half way down the first page I was helpless.’  As soon as he got to the end he read it again, and he has loved and admired it ever since, seeing it as an object lesson on how we treat the world and nature.  He describes Maxwell’s writing as ‘astounding but dense, and as challenging as an Islay malt’ and describes it as having a painterly style (Maxwell was also an artist); for Crumley there is no better landscape writer. Before Ring of Bright Water was published, otters were seen as vermin; the book single-handedly changed that attitude and the otter is now one of the best-loved and best-protected animals in the UK.  The book is, says Crumley, the work of a troubled but unarguable genius.

59 Seconds by Richard Wiseman is a book about happiness, and how we can have more of it.  Angela Jackson, (whose first novel  The Emergence of Judy Taylor won the Edinburgh International Book Festival’s First Book Award), is a psychology lecturer who teaches a course at Edinburgh University on this very subject.  Jackson believes that we all have the ability to live more happily, but she also thinks most self-help books are a waste of shelf space.  Wiseman’s book is, she says, different; he does not pretend to have all the answers, but he does look at scientific research and sort out the good stuff from the twaddle.

According to Wiseman, 50% of our happiness is genetically determined, 10% is circumstantial, but the rest depends on how we live our daily lives.  He asks everyone to keep a daily journal with three components: (i) gratitude (ii) future projections and (iii) ‘affectionate writing.’  Wiseman claims that listening to Vivaldi can lower stress levels, spending 30 minutes a day in the sun can improve your memory and having a pot plant on your desk can increase creativity.  He is particularly keen on the value of altruism and says that small acts of kindness to others can increase your own happiness levels by 40%.   Jackson likes this book because it suggests lots of small things that we can all do to increase our happiness and our resilience.  Here in Edinburgh, we may not have too much control over the sunshine, but we can still practise loving kindness.

Jessie Kesson was born to a prostitute in the Inverness workhouse in 1916.  By the time she died in 1994 she had become a BBC producer and worked on Woman’s Hour.  In between was a life of great hardship, but also one of great love.  Kesson’s semi-autobiographical novel The White Bird Passes was Jackson’s second book choice, one she discovered when taking a module on Scottish Women’s Fiction. As a young child Kesson lived in a poor but close-knit community; she was extremely close to her mother – ‘I would myself be blind now if she had not lent me her eyes’, from whom she gained a rich informal education.  When her mother developed syphilis, Kesson was sent to an orphanage in Aberdeenshire, and despite being encouraged by her teacher to apply to university, was refused permission by the institution’s trustees, who made her go into domestic service at a young age.  She lived in Aberdeenshire for many years before moving to London. Jackson sees Kesson as a hugely under-rated author, and particularly admires her writing style, quoting her description of  ‘wildflowers smelling like heartbreak if heartbreak could smell.’

All three authors stressed how important reading is to them as writers.  Both Jackson and Fagan advised aspiring novelists to write whenever they could – Jackson wrote her book from midnight to 3am whilst still holding down a full-time job, Fagan had just had a baby when she wrote hers; she even read the less pleasant bits out to him ‘in a nice voice.’  Both stressed the need to be ‘mercenary’ with time, and to ignore the inner voice telling you that you’re not a valid person unless you’re earning money.  Crumley has not ever had to fit writing round another job, but he too emphasised that a writer needs to want to write more than anything else, saying that having no other means of financial support certainly concentrates the mind.  After 26 years, writing still has the capacity to surprise him.

Three authors, six very different books; an interesting and stimulating evening.  I’ve been thinking about which books I would have chosen; for me it would have to be Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City and Barbara Pym’s Excellent Women.  Which books would you give away on World Book Night?  Share your thoughts with us; as The Reading Agency says, ‘Everything changes when we read.’

Belgium beats Argentina while England take the expected win over Scotland

Another two matches were played today (Saturday) under blue skies and warm sunshine. It was another fine display of hockey from all four Nations with England and Belgium coming out on top.

The first match-up was the Scotland v England game in which England were very much the favourites to win, being, as they were, 20 World ranking places above Scotland, in fourth. And right from the start they controlled the play very well, keeping the Scots mostly pinned back in their own half – although Scotland did put a shot past the English post from a diving Gareth Hall – and not looking as if they were trying too hard. A couple of shots on target were dealt with by the defence, one being deflected over the bar by Kenny Bain. But in the 22^nd minute, the pressure told as across into the area was collected by captain, Barry Middleton, and slammed past Jamie Cachia in the Scottish goal. England missed another chance a few minutes later before being awarded a penalty stroke just after the half hour mark. Normally a certain goal, Ashley Jackson stepped up and struck the ball off the crossbar to the relief of the Scottish camp. Two minutes before the break, Scotland went on a rare attack and a ball struck into the ‘D’ was collected by Chris Neilson and guided past the English ‘keeper. England stepped up the game play in the second half and found the net, after a bit of confusion, with three minutes played when Tom Carson scored from a close in melee. Scotland fought hard, and just missed with another penalty corner, but England sealed the victory with a 65^th minute goal from Simon Mantell to take the win 3-1.

Although not expected to win the match, too many basic mistakes from the Scotland players gave England even more of the ball than they already had, making life even more difficult for the home side.

The second match of the day was a far closer affair between Belgium and Argentina. As in Argentina’s previous match, the men from South America were slow to get going and Belgium dominated the early play, forcing a couple of fine saves from Juan Vivaldi in the Argentine goal, and generally spending too much time than was comfortable in the opposition ‘D’. The pressure eventually told with Belgium opening the scoring through Tanguy Cosyns with nine minutes on the clock as the No 32 fired a powerful drag-flick into the goal from a penalty corner. Indeed most of the half consisted of Belgium driving deep into Argentine territory and being repulsed through some desperate defending. At least, until an unscheduled break in proceedings for a fire alarm halted the match and gave the South Americans time to draw breath. And with 33 minutes on the clock, they equalised with a fine goal from Facundo Callioni who followed up an equally fine penetrating run by Matias Peredes.

The second half was more to the liking of anyone supporting Argentina as they were much more on the offensive, getting up the field and into the opposition goal are on several occasions. Unfortunately they conceded a second goal, scored by Cosyns in the 56^th minute with a close in shot which he lifted over Vivaldi. Keeping the pressure up, however, Argentina were awarded a penalty stroke seven minutes from time, but the keeper saved the shot with his face mask to keep the Belgians ahead. The match finished with the score at 2-1 and the Argentineans still hammering away at the opposition goal.

Images from the matches will appear here over the next week or so.

Hibs EOS beat Berwick Rangers reserves 3-1 yesterday at the Training Centre to progress through to the semi-final of the East of Scotland League Cup.

Jordan Sinclair gave the youngsters the lead midway through the first half before Berwick levelled the scoring with a penalty kick. A well take goal by Max Todd quickly restored the lead then a second half strike from Jamie Beaton ensured the young Hibees recorded a win over an experienced Berwick side who had a player sent off near the end.

After the game Head of Academy Coaching James McDonaugh told Hibernian TV:  “I didn’t think it was our best performance, but we still managed to control the game and play decent stuff at times.

“We scored three very good goals; Sinclair with a clever finish, Allan with an excellent pass and Todd finished it with great composure, then Beaton with a brilliant finish from 20 yards into top corner.

“The players are on a fantastic run, one defeat in 20 games and it’s now a case of having to try and squeeze every last bit out of them for the last few games. Their effort has been first class all season, but even more so since Christmas.”

Hibernian EOS: Kleton Perntreou, Aaron Dunsmore, Neil Martyniuk, Bob Wilson, Callum Crane, Max Todd, Jordan Sinclair, Dean Horribine, Gareth McCaffrey, Scott Martin, Lewis Allan. Subs: Taylor Hendry for Martin, Jamie Beaton for Todd. Subs (unused): Dougie Horne, Tom Gardiner, Euan Smith

Hibernian under-20s will play their final match of the SPFL U20 League season on Tuesday against Kilmarnock at the Training Centre (kick off 2pm).

Then the young Hibees are back in action again on Wednesday evening against top East of Scotland League side Lothian Thistle in the East of Scotland King Cup (kick off 6.30pm).

Families were to the fore at Pedal on Parliament this year, with a throng of parents and children joining politicians and marchers to lead off the mass bike ride to Holyrood yesterday.

Transport Minister Keith Brown, a last-minute addition to the roster of MSPs, MPs and councillors who had accepted their constituents’ invitation to take part, was one of the many politicians who took to two wheels on the day. The newly installed bike counter on the Meadows cycle path was quickly overwhelmed by the thousands of bikes of all shapes and sizes, with organisers estimating more people joined them than last year, when 4000 pedalled on the parliament, including a substantial contingent on foot, led by the McNicolls, founders of safer cycling charity, Andrew Cyclist. The colourful crowd filled Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and it took half an hour for the last rider leaving The Meadows to cover the short distance to the Scottish Parliament

At Holyrood, children once more played a key role, with the speeches opened by Kyle Thomas (11), Daniel Brennan (8) and Katharine Dorman (7). Kyle said:- ‘I believe cycling is the future for Scotland… Cycling down the High Street I thought to myself that this is how cycling should be, there wasn’t a single car on the road, but lots of cyclists as it should be.’

Daniel said:- ‘I’d love to be able to go for a bike ride without going in the car to cycle with my family. It would be great if Scotland was like Amsterdam where everyone can cycle with their friends.’

Katharine said ‘Let’s make Scotland a cycle friendly country!’

Lynne McNicoll, stepmother of Andrew McNicoll who died while cycling to work in Edinburgh in 2012, said:- “I was at the first Pedal on Parliament and to see so many more people attending today is just fantastic. The children have said it all for us – but I’m here because I don’t want anyone else to feel the way we feel every day since Andrew was killed on his bike.” She urged everyone who attended to talk to their MSPs and get their support.

Replying for the government, Keith Brown said:- ‘We have to educate our children if we’re to make the network safe for children and their parents. We’re unapologetic about investing in education but it’s not the only thing to be done – we’re investing in safer routes to schools. We are making progress on infrastructure with more than £32 million spent on infrastructure. It will take time for Scotland to become as safe as Amsterdam. We have to change driver behaviour as well –  we need to have the same attitudes as Scandinavian countries aiming towards zero deaths.”

Alison Johnstone Green MSP for Lothians said:- ‘This is a growing movement – and it strikes me every year that this is not a niche activity – everyone is here, young and old, fit and not so fit… Cycling will help us cut congestion, improve our woeful health record – it’s a solution to all the challenges we face. We shouldn’t have to pedal on parliament – investing in cycling is just common sense… I will come here every year until we see the situation in Scotland change for the better’

Lib Dem Willie Rennie said:- ‘As I was cycling up Queensferry Road on my bike I could not think of any more thrilling experiences – but it’s not an experience I’d like my son to share. We need to invest so much more in active transport this year and every year from now on.’

Labour’s Claudia Beamish explained:- ‘I’m a rural cyclist who’s experienced how terrifying urban cycling can be. I have to keep getting off and walking – this situation needs to change… We need transformational change. I will push strict liability with my party. I want to emphasise that it’s about how the infrastructure is designed but segregated tracks along busy roads – it shouldn’t just be lines on the roads…. It’s about a good quality of life for the whole of Scotland urban and and rural.’

Regular cyclist Councillor Cameron Rose, Conservative, said:- ‘There is a lot to be done, but we need to celebrate what has already been done, but London’s investment is more than double Scotland’s per head. We need to move on, step by step until Scotland is a good place for cycling.’

Chris Oliver from Road Share said:- ‘Presumed liability is a big ask but we need to protect the vulnerable road users, not just cyclists but pedestrians. Please look at what we’re asking for and support our campaign.’

Pedal on Parliament’s eight-point manifesto asks for 1) proper funding for cycling; 2) cycling to be designed into Scotland’s roads; 3) slower speeds where people live, work and play; 4) cycling to be integrated into local transport strategies; 5) improved road traffic law and enforcement; 6) the risk of HGVs to cyclists and pedestrians to be reduced; 7) a strategic and joined-up programme of road user training; and 8) improved statistics supporting decision-making and policy. More information here.

Photo from the POP Flickr Press Group – Sandy Blair

Grove Community Garden – Review of polling places – Portobello Market – Wildlife Photographer of the Year – Sport

Grove Community Garden are having a party today.

The members have created a mobile mini allotment and now also have a second plot which they are busy working on to create Grove 2. The planters and the soil have already arrived and their community members are setting to work. The new garden is by the canal on land being held by the council through EDI.  Although this is not a permanent site it allows the Grove to become part of the Fountainbridge Canalside Initiative which is trying to encourage a hive of activity along the canal. There are plans for markets, social enterprise, workshops walking groups and pop up cafes.

There are about 125 people or so involved in the community garden which is able to offer some of its produce to a local sandwich shop and to the Bruntsfield Green Grocer. Get along to the Grove for their celebration this afternoon!

***

If you live in the city centre you may already have received notice that your polling place for the European election next month is changing from St Stephen’s Church which has now been sold to the Roxburghe Hotel on Charlotte Square.  The council report that it will cost less to hire the hotel as a venue than it did to hire the church in St Stephen Street.

Otherwise the council will hear this week that the review of South Morningside School as one of the other polling stations for elections has concluded that the school continues to be the best place in the area. The parent council had objected to the continued use of the school building for this purpose and had suggested that Morningside Parish Church should be used instead.

The council say that polling stations have to be accessible, recognisable and spacious enough for the facilities required with available parking.

***

Stockbridge Market takes place today but in Portobello they are getting ready for next week. Councillor Maureen Child who writes to us regularly to keep us up to date with all things Porty explains:-

It will soon be Portobello Market time again! A week on Saturday – 3 May – they fling open the gates of Brighton Park again for another morning of market stall shopping with independent traders. There’s the regular live music band of the Caleerie Buskers and local face painter Annie D will be there. Come and join us and browse everything from handmade soaps, plants, garden furniture and crafts, organic mutton, cheese, condiments, oils, bread to jams, dog treats and African vegetarian goodies!   Check here for a full list of stallholders Portobello Market is open at 9.30am until 1.30pm.

***

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

17 March – 1 June 2014

Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street

Free

Through the lens of wildlife photography this exhibition captures the intrigue and beauty of our planet. These awe-inspiring images, selected from 43,000 entries by amateur and professional photographers in 96 countries, give us a glimpse of the natural world as it has never been seen before. From charismatic animal portraits to dramatic landscapes and provocative photojournalism, this year’s breathtaking exhibition raises the bar of wildlife photography once more, exciting loyal fans and new audiences alike. The 100 award-winning images from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2013 competition are beautifully displayed on back-lit installations, with each image accompanied by its photographer’s story and technical details.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is co-owned by the Natural History Museum and BBC Worldwide.

***

We will have our usual weekly sports round up tomorrow morning but you might have a look at our Sports section for Mike Smith’s appreciation of Sandy Jardine and also John Preece’s photos of the hockey from Glasgow – a forerunner to the Commonwealth Games.

Meanwhile our Hibs man John Hislop will be at the Edinburgh Derby at Easter Road where police will be out in force.

Police Scotland will be carrying out an operation at Sunday’s SPFL game between Hibernian and Hearts, searching for anyone in possession of fireworks or flares.

Officers will be carrying out searches outside Easter Road stadium, and a specialist search dog will also be used to identify anyone trying to smuggle illegal items into the stadium.

Police are warning that robust action will be taken against anyone trying to take flares or fireworks into the ground. The warning follows incidents at matches earlier in the season where flares or fireworks were used.

Superintendent Liz McAinsh, who is in charge of the policing operation on Sunday, said: “The match kicks off at 1245pm, and I would encourage supporters to get there early, as there is limited parking near to the ground.

“There will be search cordons in place around the stadium, and searches will be undertaken as a condition of entry to the ground. A specialist search dog will be used to detect anyone in possession of fireworks or flares.

“We recognise that the majority of supporters are well behaved, however there are a small minority who in the past have put themselves and others in danger by throwing fireworks or flares.

“If this behaviour continues then it will only be a matter of time before someone suffers a serious injury, and we are working with clubs and stewards to do all we can to prevent such dangerous behaviour.

“Anyone who is caught with a flare or firework can expect to be arrested, either at the time, or as a result of a post-match investigation. As well as receiving a criminal conviction, they may very well find themselves being banned from attending future matches throughout the country.”