‘This is Edinburgh’ to put spotlight back on capital’s city centre

Real Edinburgh people (L-R Rianne White(22), Majella Flower (51), Jackson Ramsay (11), Benjie Bateman (38) spell out what a new marketing campaign for the city means.  The four  appear in the TV advert for the new ‘This is Edinburgh’ campaign which airs next week.

The new £1m campaign aimed at bringing families and shoppers back to the heart of the city has been launched today to try and attract additional spending in the city centre.

Targeted at residents of Edinburgh and people who live within a two-hour drive time of Scotland’s capital, ‘This is Edinburgh’ aims to increase footfall to the centre by two per cent above the national average. Running for the next two years, it is projected that the campaign will stimulate an additional £50 million spend within the city centre over that time.

Promising a ‘contemporary and cosmopolitan’ approach that avoids cliché and reflects the city as it really is, the campaign has been developed by Marketing Edinburgh, Essential Edinburgh business improvement district and City of Edinburgh Council, who are working together to boost the economic development of the capital.

TV, outdoor and online advertising will appear from Monday, focusing on the diverse and unique range of family attractions, shops, restaurants, nightlife and hidden gems that Edinburgh has to offer people of all ages.

Organisers will be extending the campaign to social media to encourage residents of Edinburgh to get involved and share their favourite places to see and visit. New city centre fashion and food events and exclusive discounts for local people on a range of shopping, days out and dining experiences will also be key to the campaign.

Celebrities including cyclist Chris Hoy, actor Freya Mavor, singer Nina Nesbit and chef Martin Wishart are also involved, sharing their own Edinburgh insider tips on the dedicated website. You can also follow the campaign on Facebook.

City of Edinburgh Council leader Andrew Burns said:-“Edinburgh is such a wonderful place to visit and this campaign quite rightly lets the city speak for itself, reminding people of the many fantastic and diverse reasons to spend time in the city-centre. The timing is ideal and it will act as great boost to the local economy.”

A survey undertaken last year revealed that whilst the quality of Edinburgh’s shops, restaurants and pubs were rated highly, 92% of residents questioned felt that the tram works had affected their enjoyment of the city centre. 28% said they had chosen to shop there less than a couple of years ago – but, in a recent questionnaire, 87% said that they were now open to coming back into the city centre more often.

“There’s no doubt that the disruption Edinburgh’s experienced over the last few years has had an effect on its city centre,” said Andy Neal, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh. “But that’s all in the past now. Edinburgh’s back to looking its best and this campaign emphasises the many reasons why people should come and enjoy what’s on offer here.

“We think that those who live and work here will instantly recognise ‘This is Edinburgh’ as a real representation of the city centre; diverse, original and a unique experience.”

New events and activity are planned, including a fashion map of the city to be released in March, plus ‘dress-up stores’ where shoppers will be professionally styled and photographed. There will also be new film and fashion events over the coming months.

John Donnelly, Chief Executive of Marketing Edinburgh added:-“When we set out to create the campaign, we spoke with lots of different groups, listening to their opinions on Edinburgh. Overwhelmingly our research found that residents had become very resistant and unresponsive to what they see as adverts of Edinburgh for the tourists. What did excite them however was the idea of rediscovering their city, finding its hidden gems and engaging in that conversation through social media.

‘This Is Edinburgh’ advertising was created by Edinburgh-based agency, The Lane. The first TV advert will air on Monday 24 February 2014 at 7.45 on STV during Coronation Street.

From the off, Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel resembles a stunningly crafted watercolour postcard, plucked lovingly from the depths of your grandmother’s relic box. Its numerous characters fit almost like paper dolls on to the lustrous landscapes.

The story is this: in between the two world wars of the 20th century, M. Gustave H. (played by Ralph Fiennes) is the faithful concierge of the Grand Budapest Hotel, a finely decorated establishment perched on a mountain in Eastern Europe. Charming and a little camp, Gustave has managed to make an aged Duchess (Tilda Swinton) fall madly in love with him. When she dies, and the will states that Gustave inherits an expensive painting, he is blamed for her murder and imprisoned. With the help of his trusted lobby boy Zero (Tony Revolori), Gustave must escape from prison and prove his innocence.

Anderson deserves a firm pat on the back for this one. Whilst recognisable faces appear on screen, scene after scene, he manages to hone the film in with an expertly funny script and some gorgeous cinematography. The cast do a wonderful job, turning their enthusiasm up to one thousand and giving it their absolute all in this gratuitous, over the top picture that’s great fun to watch. Particular credit must go to the costume and set design teams too. Not only is it funny, but it’s dazzling and alluring on the eye.

The huge cast that festoon the posters in your local cinema, and the honourable Wes Anderson? Both deserve a rapturous round of applause for this. Lurid, funny and whip-smart, The Grand Budapest Hotel is an absolute cinematic riot in all the right ways.

The Grand Budapest Hotel opened the Glasgow Film Festival 2014. It has its UK nationwide release on 7th March

Scotland Women head coach, Jules Maxton, has reshuffled her squad for their game against the Azurri at Campo del Parco Urbano, Santa Maria Capua Vetere, on Sunday (23 February 2014).

Despite losing to England in the last round of the competition, Maxton, is optimistic that her squad can takes the positives from that game and cultivate them against the Italians this weekend.

Maxton, said: “Instead of looking at what our opposition has to offer, we’re focussing on developing our own game and maturing as a team.

“We were pleased with some of our play against England. At times we looked extremely dangerous against a strong outfit, yet we just lacked that ability to be clinical when in a good position, as well as the ability to compete for the full 80 minutes.

“If we can get our set piece to function to its full potential, then I have no doubt that we can do some serious damage to our opposition.”

Karen Dunbar and Emily Irving of Watsonians and Ayr respectively, have been named in the 23-person squad, with the possibility of making their Scotland debut.

Maxton, continued: “We’re giving some other girls a chance this weekend, we feel this is the right time for them to come into the squad and show us what they can do.

“Emily has been on the periphery for a while now, so we look forward to giving her a shot. She’s a really exciting prospect and she has a great future ahead of her on the international stage.

“Karen is another player who we’ve been looking at all this season. She’s a good front-row option and we hope that we can utilise her in the setpiece against the Italians.

Melrose utility forward, Lana Skeldon, has been named on the bench with the possibility of gaining her second cap. Skeldon, debuted for Scotland in their 33-10 win against the Netherlands in 2011, and hasn’t appeared for the national team since. Her inclusion in the squad, promotes Lindsey Smith to the starting XV, with both Sarah Quick and Nikki McLeod not named in the travelling squad.

Emma Wassell, will make her first start for Scotland after strong performances off the bench against Ireland and England, as Katy Green has been given the nod ahead of Megan Gaffney, who will not feature in this game.

Scotland squad:

15. Steph Johnston (Worcester)

14.Annabel Sergeant (Richmond)

13. Gillian Inglis (Melrose)

12. Laura Steven (Murrayfield Wanderers)

11. Katy Green (Darlington Mowden Park Sharks)

10. Lisa Martin (Murrayfield Wanderers)

9. Louise Dalgliesh (RHC Cougars)

1. Heather Lockhart (Hillhead-Jordanhill)

2. Lindsey Smith (Hillhead-Jordanhill)

3. Tracy Balmer (Worcester) CAPTAIN

4. Deborah McCormack (Richmond)

5. Emma Wassell (Murrayfield Wanderers)

6. Ruth Slaven (Murrayfield Wanderers)

7. Tess Forsberg (Richmond)

8. Anna Stodter (Loughborough University)

16. Lana Skeldon (Melrose)

17. Lisa Robertson (Murrayfield Wanderers)

18. Karen Dunbar (Watsonians)

19. Jade Konkel (Hillhead-Jordanhill)

20. Rachael Cook (Murrayfield Wanderers)

21. Sarah Law (Murrayfield Wanderers)

22. Tanya Griffith (RHC Cougars)

23. Emily Irving (Ayr)

If there’s a topic that Richard Ayoade tackles with impeccable skill, it’s infatuation. In his break out hit, the 2010 coming-of-age drama ‘Submarine’, he created a film about two young teenagers hopelessly in love but surrounded by break up and melancholy. In his latest feature, The Double, he once again creates an unrequited infatuation, but never veers into the obsessive.
It tells the story of Simon, a timid man who day by day is ignored and forgotten by his co-workers and mother. As all he yearns for slips from his hands, a man walks into the office. His name is James. Confident and daring, he could not be more different from Simon, apart from the fact that he looks identical to him. As James teaches Simon the ways to entice the woman he loves, James carries out a deceitful act of sabotage that drives Simon to insanity.

The Double presents itself as a ‘comedy’ on paper, and bar the few and far between lines of dark humour, it could not be further from it. Haunting and psychotic, it verges on this fine tightrope of insanity that drags you with it as it teeters off either side. It’s a bizarre turn for Ayoade, whose comic background would suggest he couldn’t make a thriller as fine as this, but to his credit he does it seemingly effortlessly, and with a sensational amount of skill. In fact, it wouldn’t be ridiculous to suggest that Ayoade’s effort here makes him one of Britain’s best modern directors. It lends itself, through its harrowing score and masterful cinematography, to the horror greats of the seventies and eighties. It’s bizarre, at times terrifying but with each and every frame drags you into the pit of your seat.

The performances, particularly Jesse Eisenberg as the both shy and vindictive leads of Simon and James, are scarily good. Eisenberg gives a career defining performance. The dual aspect of it also gives Mia Wasikowska, as the Simon’s love interest, a character that’s both caustic and charming. She’s a fine young actress and gives a performance that’s one of her own personal bests. There are numerous other cast members that crop up over the ninety minute runtime, both Wallace Shawn and Noah Taylor make great appearances as delusional co-workers, and Ayoade has even squeezed in roles for his Submarine alumni Yasmin Paige and Craig Roberts too.

The Double owes just as much to those in post production as it does to those during the filming of it. With an impeccable British direction, great international performances and a script and score to die for, The Double is truly one of the most enticing, interesting and genuinely excellent films of the year so far.

The Double plays at the Glasgow Film Festival on both Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February

Contributed Article

Home Energy Scotland is inviting private sector landlords across South East Scotland to an information evening in Edinburgh, Thursday 27 February 2014, to learn what energy efficiency can do for them and their tenants, and what grants, loans and government schemes are available to help.

The event will take place 6-8pm at the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation, Old High School, Infirmary Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LZ.

Some Edinburgh landlords recommend Home Energy Scotland, as they have all benefitted from the Landlord Green Appliance Scheme as a result of the information Home Energy Scotland provided.

Landlord Green Appliance Scheme provides grants of up to £500 for landlords who want to replace old, inefficient kitchen appliances with new energy efficient ones.

Landlords Daphne and John also took advantage of the Green Homes Cashback Scheme, which offers private sector landlords, amongst others, up to £1,200 towards energy efficiency measures, including up to £500 for insulation, up to £400 for a boiler and up to £300 for other measures such as glazing, LED lighting and heating controls.

Daphne said:- “Getting my property assessed by Home Energy Scotland helped me to decide what measures I wanted to implement. Everyone has been very willing to help and good advice was given.”

Speakers at the information evening will include Tristan Compton of the National Landlords Association. Tristan, the Local Representative for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, says,

“As a landlord of 10 years, with residential lets in different sectors and property types, I have first-hand experience of installing energy efficient measures. It makes good financial sense to make the most of the advice and money on offer.”

Kenneth Fraser, Technical Advisor – Private Sector Landlords, Home Energy Scotland, agrees adding:-“Having a higher energy performance certificate can increase the value of your property as well as reducing your tenants’ energy bills. Warmer, more affordable accommodation can mean tenants are more likely to stay and less likely to fall into rent arrears.”

Home Energy Scotland is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by Energy Saving Trust. They offer free and impartial advice to householders as well as landlords through their helpline, 0808 808 2282 and website, http://www.homeenergyscotland.org

Services to landlords include one-to-one visits to rental properties to produce a detailed report on energy efficiency and grant availability.

For further information or to register for the information evening, you can book through Eventbrite, or contact Kenneth Fraser, Home Energy Scotland. Tel 0131 555 7866. Email kenneth.fraser@se.homeenergyscotland.org

Submitted by Heather Walker

The Scottish SPCA is asking animal lovers to get on their bikes to raise vital funds for local animals.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity is encouraging cyclists to sign up for the Edinburgh Night Ride, a 50 mile route through the capital which takes place from 21- 22 June.

Participants are promised stunning moonlit views of iconic sights such as Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument and Arthur’s Seat during the challenge.

Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “This is the first year people can take part in the Edinburgh Night Cycle for the Scottish SPCA and we’re really excited about this.

“We know 50 miles is a huge task but there’s still plenty of time for people to train if they sign up now.

“The minimum age to participate is 18, although 14 to 17 year olds can join in if they’re with an adult. Groups are also welcome so this could be ideal for those looking for an event they can complete with their friends.

“Donations are all we have and we’re always extremely grateful when people agree to push themselves to their limits to raise much-needed funds for us.

“In 2013 our Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre took in a staggering 1,365 pets and we are expecting 2014 to be just as busy.

“Hundreds of animals in the local area have already needed our help this year and anyone who decides to take part in the Edinburgh Night Ride really will be helping save lives.”

For more information on the Edinburgh Night Ride please email

fundraising@scottishspca.org.

The tram took to Princes Street yesterday….here is a video produced by Edinburgh Trams from the cab!

Jason Cummings has been called up into the Scotland under-19 squad for next month’s friendly against Switzerland at the Energy Asset Arena (Wednesday 5 March, kick off 2pm).

The 18-year-old has been in prolific form for Hibernian under-20s so far this season and has contributed an impressive 17 goals in the SPFL U20 League.

As a result, the former Hutchison Vale forward has been handed a call-up into Ricky Sbragia’s squad ahead of the UEFA under-19 European Championships, which take place in England in May.

Cummings said: “I’m really pleased to get called up for Scotland under-19s and I’m really looking forward to being a part of the match in two weeks.”

The Hibs’ youngster joins Hearts’ teenagers Sam Nicholson and Gary Oliver in the squad along with former Hearts’ midfielder Adam King who joined Swansea City during the January transfer window.

Scotland Under-19 coach Ricky Sbragia has named a 22-player squad for the forthcoming Vauxhall Under-19 International Challenge Match against Switzerland being played at The Energy Assets Arena in Livingston on Wednesday, 5th March.

Scotland will use the match to prepare for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship elite round which takes place in England in May.

As well as the group hosts, Scotland will also face Ukraine and Montenegro, with the group winners advancing to this summer’s finals to be held in Hungary.

The match will kick off at 2pm and tickets are available on the gate at £5 for adults and FREE* for under-16s.

Scotland Under-19 squad:

Goalkeepers

Mark Hurst (St Johnstone)

Liam Kelly (Rangers)

Ross Stewart (Motherwell)

Defenders

Ryan Sinnamon (Rangers)

Coll Donaldson (Queens Park Rangers)

Cameron Burgess (Fulham)

Scott McKenna (Aberdeen)

Stephen Hendrie (Hamilton Academical)

Craig Halkett (Rangers)

George McLennan (Reading)

Midfielders

Liam Henderson (Celtic)

Jamie Lindsay (Celtic)

Darren Petrie (Dundee United)

Adam King (Swansea City)

Charlie Telfer (Rangers)

Forwards

Fraser Aird (Rangers)

Cameron Smith (Aberdeen)

Sam Nicholson (Heart of Midlothian)

Gary Oliver (Heart of Midlothian)

Jordan Preston (Blackburn Rovers)

Fraser Murdoch (Crewe Alexandra)

Jason Cummings (Hibernian)

Photo by John Preece

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

Hearts’ manager Gary Locke insists that he is looking forward to this weekend’s visit from champions Celtic, despite that result that last time they played in Gorgie when they scored seven goals without reply.

With the league title all but wrapped up, the hoops have publically stated that they want to go through the season undefeated, and few expect them to drop even one point at Tynecastle.

Speaking at the weekly press conference at the Riccarton Training Centre, Locke said: “I think it’s a game you’ve got to look forward to. It’s a great one to be involved on whether you are a coach, manager or player. There will be a great atmosphere and a big crowd.

“There was a big improvement in the cup game when we went to Parkhead. Being the away team we could kind of sit back. It’s always slightly different when you are the home team as you’ve got to try and have a go. We might have to change that a little bit. But it’s one we’re looking forward to. There’s no real pressure on us – Celtic are undefeated in the league and have hardly conceded any goals.

“We’re probably going into this game in a better frame of mind than we did for that one.I feel we’ve played well recently in the league. As I say, it’s a difficult game. There’s no doubt about that. They have great players – top internationals – but that should make it one to look forward to.

“After the game you don’t think it’s been beneficial but once you look back it is. I said at the start of the season that a lot of people expected us to be on the end of one or two results like that. It certainly wasn’t great at the time, but I think especially the younger players in the squad learn from games like that and the mistakes they made.

“They will know when they’ve not switched on against top players. When that happens, they punish you. That’s what happened. We certainly can’t afford to switch off at any stage because they have got players who, if you switch off for one second, they will punish you.

“You know they might well go the whole season undefeated. We don’t know. But it would be nice to be the team that stops them. For that to happen, we know we’ll have to be switched on for 90 minutes, for us to have a great day and for them to have an off day.

“We know that can happen. It’s a big game everyone to be involved in and hopefully we can put in a performance.”

With Callum Tapping likely to miss out due to injury, there was some good news for Locke with the return of influential midfielder Jason Holt who completed 90 minutes in the Under 20s defeat to St Mirren on Wednesday night. Holt’s comeback is even more significant as he is one of the few players this season to score past Fraser Forster who is on the brink of beating Bobby Clark’s 43 year record after going 12 consecutive league games without conceding.

Locke continued: “Jason played last night; he got through 90 minutes so we’ll see how he is. I put him on the bench last week which really I shouldn’t have done.

“That was through a lack of numbers. He’ll be involved on Saturday, whether that’s on the bench or not I don’t know but hopefully he’ll get some minutes on the pitch.

“There are not many players who have scored against Forster this season. That’s why, for me, the pressure is off us a bit. I think Celtic are strong favourites – everyone expects them to win. We can go and enjoy the game and if we play the way we have been the past month or so we can cause them problems.”

There’s a tram on the line! –  Try Curling! – Street Soccer – Photography exhibition – Clean Leith Forum

We reported recently that tram testing is about to step up a gear, but it appears that yesterday one tram went all the way along the line from the depot at Gogar to York Place.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener, said: “Like a lot of people who were tweeting about it, I was very excited to spot the tram from my office window as it travelled along Princes Street and back again today. It’s a historic moment for Edinburgh and reflects a key moment in the project where we’ll now begin to see more and more trams out on the full route during the day as we push on with the testing, commissioning and driver training programme.”

Tom Norris, Edinburgh Trams Director and General Manager, travelled on the tram as it made its way through the city centre to York Place today.

He said: “It was quite something being on board as we brought the tram into the on-street section for its first daytime test. Like the first night-time tram, it seemed to generate lots of interest – most people’s first response seemed to be to reach for their phone or camera and get a picture. Today’s test is the latest in a comprehensive programme of system testing and driver training; we’re looking forward to getting more and more drivers used to daytime on-street road and traffic conditions over the coming weeks.”

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Now that you know all the rules of curling you might want to try it.

Murrayfield Curling Club have a Try Curling session on 2 March 2014 at either 9am or 9.50am. If you wish to be booked in, please email Debbie Kerr at info@murrayfieldcurling.co.uk

For those already hooked on the Scottish sport, Edinburgh Curling Club have  drop-in sessions on a Thursday lunchtime from 12:30 to 2:35pm.  These sessions are for those wishing to have a coaching related to a specific area of their game.  Each session is £5 per person.

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An exhibition is coming to the Royal Highland Showground next month which might be of interest to the photographers among you.

 More information about the Photovision Roadshow is here.

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Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following an armed robbery at a post office in Drumbrae this afternoon.

The incident took place at 1.10pm at the Duart Crescent post office when a customer was robbed of a three-figure sum at knifepoint by two men. They made off in an east direction towards Dochart Drive.

The two males are described as white, early 20s, with hoods up and a tan substance or tan tights over their face, and one in a grey hoodie and jogging bottoms.

Detective Inspector Rory Hamilton said: “This has been a frightening experience for the customer as well as the staff in the post office.

“If anyone saw anything suspicious in the area at the time of the incident or recognises the description of the suspects, then they should contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or make an anonymous report through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Final year Painting students from Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen will showcase their work at an interim exhibition in Edinburgh this week. There is a private view tomorrow from 6 – 9pm and then the exhibition opens on Saturday.

The exhibition, organised by students at Gray’s School of Art, will run from 22 February till 1 March 2014 at Gallery 1, St. Margaret’s House.

It is the fourth consecutive year that the event has been held, offering the public the chance to view the students’ work before their Degree Show in June.

Keith Grant, Head of Painting at Gray’s, said that the show not only provides an opportunity for the students to showcase their work, but also for the audience to get a sense of the range of work currently being produced in the department.

He said: “It can be difficult for a student in their Honours year to gain perspective on how their work is progressing, when the only opportunity they have to make a critical judgement takes place within the confines of their studio.

“It is for this reason that the exhibition is so important for the students, coming as it does at such a significant juncture in the academic year.”

Painting student Jana Jiraskova (23), who will be displaying her work at the show, said: “This is a transitional stage for us, before our final graduation and emergence into the art world, and is an opportunity to gain relevant skills and experience relating to professional practice.”

Although all the students involved in the exhibition specialise in painting, Jana said each individual has a unique method and perspective.

She said: “Included in the collection we have model-making, installation, photography, sculpture and salvaged objects. Each artist plays a different role which contributes to the overall versatility and energy of the show.”

The students have organised all aspects of the exhibition themselves and for many of them it will be the first time that they have exhibited a piece of their own work in a gallery situation.

Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm, and 12pm to 7pm at weekends.

To see more of the work from the students involved in the exhibition go to http://grayspainters.tumblr.com/

A 53-year-old man has been charged following a high-value housebreaking in the West of Edinburgh last year.

Around £100,000 worth of antiques were stolen from the Shapes auction house in Bankhead Medway in the early hours of Saturday 7th December.

Following a thorough investigation by officers as part of Operation RAC the male was subsequently detained before being charged yesterday (Wednesday). He appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court yesterday and was remanded in custody.

Enquiries are ongoing to locate the stolen goods and anyone who can assist officers with their continued investigation is asked to come forward.

Detective Inspector John Kavanagh said: “Since these items were stolen during a break-in last year, officers in Edinburgh have been pursuing numerous lines of enquiry to identify those responsible

. “These enquiries, undertaken as part of Operation RAC, have culminated in an arrest, while we continue with our efforts to trace the stolen antiques.

“Anyone who believes they have information that can assist with our investigation should contact police immediately.

“Operation RAC will continue to target those involved in housebreaking and associated acquisitive crime and you can rest assured that if you engage in these offences, we will use all resources at our disposal to find and arrest you.”

Running from Saturday 22nd Feb – Sun 9th March there will be an exhibition of works by Scottish artist Stuart McAlpine Miller at Castle Fine Art.

McAlpine Miller was the artist in residence at the Savoy in London, where he was commissioned to produce paintings of former guests for the exhibition Time For Reflection.

Estelle Lovatt who is art critic for BBC Radio 2’s Art Show has recommended him as the artist to invest in at the moment.

There is currently a vast waiting list for Miller’s original work which now starts at £35,000 upwards.

This is the first time the gallery has held an exhibition of his work here, and they are very excited at the prospect.A spokesman for Castle Fine Art said:-“Be the first to see and buy these incredible pieces when they are unveiled this Saturday 22 February 2014 at 10am.

“The collection is formed of seven works in edition sizes of nine. Due to the limited availability of this collection we anticipate that this will be a very popular sell out event for us.

Edinburgh Gallery | Castle Fine Art
20 Multrees Walk
St Andrew Square
Edinburgh
EH1 3DQ

E:  edinburgh@castlefineart.com
T: 0131-261-9181

Contributed Article

This week there have been a variety of developments on referendum issues. From the currency ’debate’ to the fleeting intervention by Jose Manuel Barrosa on the matter of joining the EU. Both of these rather unfortunately were again simply scare stories and posturing. This tact is increasingly common, most unfortunate and does not do the seriousness of the debate any justice whatsoever.

Behind the scenes, in the real world, the two governments know there will be a currency agreement. At this stage Westminster are simply maneuvering to their start point for negotiations. A fairly understandable move but strange in the sense of the tactless manner and their bullying nature.

With regard Sr Barrosa’s involvement it is not the first time he has chipped in. Coincidentally it is not the first time he has immediately been left in solitude by the EU and his own government. There is the small matter of the EU Commission not actually being responsible for who is accepted to the EU. There is the small matter of his comparisons not applying to the case of Scotland remaining in the EU, especially his inappropriate liking of us to Kosova. And there is the small matter of again the Spanish Foreign Minister immediately distancing himself and the Spanish gobierno from the view opined.

As topical as they are, however, those rebuttals are not the point of this article. The impact on the doors and in conversation is of most interest in the aftermath.

There is the general perception that the male psyche is predominantly the one that will refuse to be threatened and object to the bullying tone from Westminster – or perhaps we are simply more vocal in our disdain. Indeed there are polls and research to back this up. If we are to presume that is the norm then actions like the Cameron ’lovebomb’ followed by the Osbourne currency bluff might not show any great level of movement to Yes in the male voter group. After all, the last week is not the first we have been lectured and browbeat with empty rhetoric to date.

What has been more noticeable in recent conversations has been the reaction from females. Far more have commented on their dislike of being spoken down to and especially the manner and tone used. The feelings alluded to have been expressed in far more vocal terms than I have previously come across in the campaign. When canvassing or conversing, the women engaged with have tended to be slightly more reticent, reserved in their strength of feeling and looking for more substance to both the ’yes’ and ’no’ arguments – a little less emotive if you like. Not in the last week it hasn’t been though. I guess nobody likes to be talked down to and treated like they are daft.

I’m not saying that suddenly every female voter has suddenly jump up from an undecided ’4’ to an ’8’ in favour in independence. I’m not claiming that a plethora of women have come forward wanting to actively campaign now though some of both have occured. I am, however, saying that not a single person has said that they are now moving towards a ’no’ vote – not one. Of those with a more open mind every comment has been to the contrary and in favour of a ’yes’ come September 18th.

What else is striking is the number of women wanting to see and hear debate that relates to what they feel are a women’s perspective on issues and matters. It seems the perception is that this is a male dominated debate still and their questions are not being heard. To this mind it was good to see that Better Together put up two female MSPs in the BBC ’debate’ from Kelso this week. Again though, it was unfortunate that the content from Ruth Davidson and the normally much better Jenny Marra was rather weak. If the best case for the Union status quo is that the English and the Welsh will be spiteful towards us then that’s hardly a reason to stay attached.

In the ’Yes’ campaign events around Edinburgh there has been a fairer gender balance with the likes of Fiona Hyslop MSP, Alison Johnstone MSP, Kathleen Caskie, Margo MacDonald MSP, Jill Murphy, Nicola Sturgeon MSP, Jeane Freeman etc contributing considerably. These have tended to be talks in public halls where the stage is shared with other speakers, each getting about 10 minutes. Whilst this is great for diversity of gender, race, politics, age etc what I am being told is that they are not specific to the female voter in an environment allowing questions that relates to pertinent issues and questions.

With this specifically in mind we are holding an event in the Northfield Hotel on Lasswade Road. Whilst it is billed as a ’Business Lunch’, the main speakers are quite specifically chosen after listening to the feedback and there will be considerable time allocated to a question and answer session with no subject taboo.

Angel Constance MSP and Minister for Youth Employment will be in attendance along with Michelle Thomson of both Business For Scotland and Women For Indy. These are both high caliber speakers who are open in discussion and very well versed in the positive case for independence.

The event is for anyone who wishes to attend but obviously the hope is a significant number of undecideds attend and air their views. When it comes to the female perspective on the debate this is an excellent opportunity to raise questions and enjoy discussion.

The link for it is here and it includes how to access tickets –
Yes Edinburgh South Business Lunch – http://yesscotland.nationbuilder.com/neilhay/yes_edinburgh_southern_business_lunch

Submitted by Neil Hay

Scotland make three forward changes to face Italy

Scotland have made three changes to their forward line up for Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Italy in Rome.

The alterations see the 40-times-capped Scott Lawson win the nod over Ross Ford at hooker; Richie Gray brings his 6ft 9ins presence to the second-row instead of Tim Swinson; and Johnnie Beattie lines-up at No 8 with David Denton moving to the bench.

“I was not involved against England but I think the guys were pretty down and they did not manage to show what they can do.  So I think this weekend it’s really about showing what we can do.”

“We’re all hurting at the results of the first two games but the players we’ve chosen have the chance to do something that can make our supporters proud this weekend.”

Scotland team to play Italy in Stadio Olimpico, Rome, on Saturday 22 February 2014 in the RBS 6 Nations Championship, kick-off 2.30pm local time (1.30pm UK time)

9 Greig Laidlaw (Edinburgh Rugby) CAPTAIN 26 caps, 3 tries 23 conversions, 56 penalties, 229 points

8 Johnnie Beattie (Montpellier) 28 caps, 3 tries, 15 points

23 Max Evans (Castres) 39 caps, 3 tries, 15 points

Photo – JLP-Photography

Hearts and 442 Sports Marketing are celebrating the supporters’ #createhistory movement with a special, limited edition matchday programme for this Saturday’s (22^nd February 2014) Scottish Premiership match against Celtic at Tynecastle.

As momentum to save the club gathers off the pitch, with BIDCO revealing details of its rescue package with the Foundation of Hearts, and Executive Chairwoman Designate Ann Budge addressing the Hearts’ support for the first time, this unique matchday programme will provide a celebration of the momentum behind the club’s push for survival.

This one-off print run, never to be repeated, features an exclusive interview with Foundation of Hearts chairman Ian Murray MP, as he looks towards a bright future at Tynecastle. Also included in the programme is a free, collector’s item A2 double sided poster, along with the regular content and columnists that has seen the publication pick up multiple industry awards.

To complete this remarkable programme, 442 Sports Marketing has agreed to make a sizeable donation to the Foundation of Hearts for every copy sold.

Foundation of Hearts chairman Ian Murray MP said: “We’d like to thank 442 Sports and the club for getting behind the idea of this very special #createhistory matchday programme.

“It looks stunning visually, and the best bit is we are sure it will sell a lot of copies which will benefit the club and Foundation of Hearts alike. My message is: don’t miss out, grab your copy!”

442 Sports Marketing Creative Director Brian Stock said: “We wanted to play our part and do all we can to help this great club. The #createhistory campaign has been so powerful and hopefully this will be a publication that marks a special time in the club’s history.

“We are only making one print run and hope to sell out the 3000 copies being produced for the match. Subscribers are guaranteed their copy in the post along with all pre-orders from our programme site. We thank the fans for their support in the programme and hope they enjoy this very special publication.”

The matchday programme will be available for purchase in the Hearts Clubstore & Ticket Centre on McLeod Street from Friday (21st February 2014) lunchtime, online at www.442shop.bigcartel.com and at various vendors around the Tynecastle area on matchday. It is priced at £3.50.

#createhistory has been the Foundation’s social media campaign slogan

The times are most certainly a-changing at Tynecastle. For the best part of a decade, Hearts supporters have often cringed with embarrassment when a press release from erstwhile club owner Vladimir Romanov hit the headlines – usually for all the wrong reasons.

Romanov, of course, has long since departed but the financial catastrophe he left behind caused Hearts to enter administration last summer. Now, nearly nine months later, the Foundation of Hearts group is poised to take over Edinburgh’s oldest football club with the club’s loyal supporters contributing towards its financial salvation.

Hearts executive chairwoman designate Ann Budge – the sole director of BIDCO 1874, the company that is poised to complete a deal worth £2.5m with the club’s administrator BDO – has this week communicated with those supporters to urge them to continue to pledge their help to realise fan ownership of the club. Here is the content of her email to those fans:

“It has been a very busy few days since we announced some of the plans for trying to secure the long-term future of Heart of Midlothian Football Club.

Hopefully, the statement made last week has provided some degree of clarity, albeit we recognise the need to provide more details. Please be assured we will furnish more information as soon as we are in a position to do so.

We all know the task ahead. Firstly, to ensure the Club survives; secondly to ensure it is re-stabilised financially, with the strongest possible foundations to ensure its future. These are the tasks I am offering to take on; but I will not succeed without your continued support.

My task, as I see it, is to ensure that when I hand the Club over to you, the supporters, I will be handing over a Club in good shape and with sufficient resources to face the challenges of the future. To achieve this the Club needs investment over the next two years to stabilise and then build a solid financial base.

Some of you are asking how long you might be asked to contribute. Right now, the Club needs your financial support to see us through the next two years. Thereafter your contributions are required to secure supporter ownership.

Beyond that, and once ownership passes to the fans, it will be for you, the supporters, to agree the financial priorities of your Club.

To all the supporters who are helping the Club, either by attending games, contributing to the Foundation of Hearts, buying merchandise, fund raising – the list goes on – I thank you.

It has been said many times over the last few months, but it is absolutely true that without this support we would not be here today.

To those of you who have already pledged, I thank you.

To those of you who have not yet done so, I would simply say that if you believe in the journey we are about to undertake, and only if your financial position allows it, please consider joining your nearly 8,000 fellow supporters, who are contributing.

These supporters have started to build the cash reserves to enable fans ownership to become a reality, which will ultimately put an end to private ownership of our club.

I will do my part to the best of my ability.

Thank you, in advance, for continuing to do yours.”

BDO recently agreed a deal with BIDCO 1874 for the purchase of the shares from the club’s majority shareholder UBIG, the bankrupt Lithuanian institution which holds a 78.97% stake. This deal needs to be ratified at a UBIG creditors’ meeting, scheduled for late March, after which it is envisaged Hearts can come out of administration.

After a prolonged spell of considerable turmoil, it’s heartening to read the Budge’s words. No mention of corruption or media monkeys as was the way of Romanov. Instead, words that offer considerable hope for the future of an Edinburgh and, indeed, Scottish football institution.

Thanks to the generosity of the Hearts support and the vision of Ann Budge, credibility is back on the agenda at Tynecastle.

Scotland make four starting changes from England defeat

At the halfway point in their 6 Nations campaign, Scotland’s under-20 players travel to northern Italy today to prepare for their third match of the championship on Friday 21 February 2014 (kick-off 6pm GMT, 7pm local).

Looking for their first win, after defeats to Ireland and England, the Scots prepare to meet their Italian counterparts with four changes to the starting XV who took on the English at Netherdale earlier this month.

Edinburgh College of Art Fashion Show – Animation film competition – Portobello Beach Clean up – Little Ox Gallery – Citizen Curator 

Get ready for tickets to the Edinburgh College of Art Fashion Show becoming available in mid-March. It takes place at the McEwan Hall from 23-25 April 2014. Our photo

More details here.

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Hidden Stories are running an Animation Competition

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​This year, both Hibernian Football Cub and Heart of Midlothian Football Club have formed partnerships with Edinburgh College and The Prince’s Trust to deliver employment programmes that provide young people aged 16 and over with opportunities to gain valuable skills, qualifications and experience to get started on a career path or college course.

This season at Big Hearts, a 7 week programme for young people has been introduced at Heart of Midlothian Football Club.

Funded by Skills Development Scotland, the programme includes an employment qualification, early touches coaching qualification, volunteering opportunities and one week’s work placement.

This is an exciting new course that is being piloted with 3 other clubs across the premiership already, including the new Hibernian Recruit course. Applications are now being taken and a selection day took place at the beginning of February, but if you are really good you might get on the next course!

This course is a fantastic opportunity for young people who are struggling to get onto the employment ladder, to develop their skills and hopefully get the opportunity to move further up the employment ladder.

If you would like to find out more information about this course or would like to apply, please contact Benedict Craigie-Sharland on 0131 200 7204, or email him at benedict@bighearts.org.uk

Two brand new courses are also on offer this season at Easter Road Stadium.

Hibernian Recruit is a 12 week long programme offering individual and team challenges to give your career a kick start. The courses aims to help you find out what employers are looking for. You will learn how to handle new situations, gain skill on working with others and be able to present yourself with confidence to potential employers.

Starting in February 2014 and running until April 2014, the course also provides opportunities to engage with employers and visit a variety of workplace settings, as well as the chance to earn SVQ Level 4 in Employability and Enterprise or Core Skills, and to ‘win’ a paid work placement at the end of 12 weeks.

Once completing the 12 week course, you can move on to the Hibernian Hospitality and Events Management Academy, where you can take your career further. This 18 week course includes:

•    An introduction to a variety of employment in the fields of hospitality and events management;
•    An opportunity to earn SVQ Level 5 in Tourism and Events Management;
•    Real experience in planning and running an event;
•    A work placement in hospitality, tourism or events management.

This course will commence on the 23rd April 2014 and runs until 9th July 2014.

Whilst each Hibernian course stands on its own, you may be eligible to progress through both. Spaces are limited to 20 in each course and will be allocated based on participation in the selection process.

If you would like to find out more information about either of these courses or you would like to apply, please contact the Hibernian Community Foundation on 0131 661 2159, or email info@hibernianinthecommunity.org.uk

The major annual survey of Edinburgh residents has shown record levels of satisfaction with local services, continuing a steady upward trend for the second year running.

Overall, the figures show that 87% of Edinburgh residents are satisfied with the way the Council is managing neighbourhoods, a 20% rise on 2008.

The survey also shows that 96% of residents are satisfied with Edinburgh as place to live and satisfaction with how the Council manages the city overall has increased to 74% from a low of 35% in 2009.

The public’s top priorities for improvement, meanwhile, include roads maintenance, street cleaning and refuse collection, and tackling dog fouling.

In a sign of growing confidence in the economy, over half of respondents feel confident about their job prospects in Edinburgh, with those feeling ‘very confident’ more than doubling in a year.

Council Leader Cllr Andrew Burns said: “The top line figures continue to offer great encouragement and reassurance that, broadly speaking, residents believe we are managing their city well.

“What’s even more impressive is that this has been achieved against a backdrop of real pressure on public finances and the need to make efficiencies throughout the Council.

“Our recent budget clearly shows we have listened to residents, with a further £16m going into the budget for fixing potholes and pavements, as well as investment in other facilities and services that the public value.

“But we will, of course, make sure that we tackle those areas where the survey shows we need to do more. That’s essential for the people who live and work here, but also for maintaining our reputation as a world-class capital city.”

Deputy Council Leader Cllr Steve Cardownie added: “We know from the many awards that the city receives each year what visitors think of Edinburgh but what these results demonstrate is that residents agree; it’s a great place to live.

“It is particularly encouraging that they believe that our world-famous festivals make the city a better place to live and that they are attending ever more performances and events right here on their door step.

“We are ambitious for the city and there is much work yet to be done, so we simply need to continue delivering the pledges we made to Edinburgh residents and look for that to be reflected in future surveys.”

Key findings in the Edinburgh Peoples Survey 2013 include:
– Edinburgh continues to be highly regarded as a place to live with 96% expressing satisfaction, continuing a year-on-year increase since 2010. Satisfaction with neighbourhoods as place to live has also stayed very high at 93%, up by 7% since 2008.

– Satisfaction with nursery, primary and secondary schools reached its highest recorded levels

Satisfaction has reduced in refuse collection (to 75%) and recycling (to 80%).

– Road maintenance continues to have a lower satisfaction score than other services (53%), staying about the same over the five year period.

– Satisfaction with library services remains very high at 93%, well above the long-term average of 87%

– Over three-quarters (77%) of residents felt Festivals made the city a better place to live, up 9% on last year, with almost two-thirds (64%) having attended a performance (up 7%)

 

More detailed analysis will be carried out by the council to help them understand the reasons underlying the changes in satisfaction. The research will also be used by managers and staff to develop action plans for maintaining high performance and addressing areas for improvement.

The Edinburgh People Survey (EPS) is the Council’s annual citizen survey, measuring satisfaction with the Council and its services, identifying areas for improvement and gathering information about residents which is not available through other sources or at neighbourhood level.

The survey is undertaken through face-to-face interviews with around 5,000 residents each year, conducted in the street and door-to-door.

A “MAMMOTH” NEW EXPERIENCE AT THE SHERATON GRAND HOTEL & SPA

Perfect for PANKs – Professional Aunts No Kids – the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has partnered with National Museums Scotland to offer an aunt-friendly package

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh has launched a “Mammoth” package to entice the lucrative PANK demographic with luxury accommodation and tickets to the Mammoths of the Ice Age exhibition.

The PANK trend – currently hot in the US where around 42% of women up to 44 years old do not have children – is generally reflective of women choosing to have children later in life, or not at all, who enjoy a close relationship with relatives’ children. Travel firms in the US have become increasingly aware of the power of the PANKs, with their love of travel and levels of disposable income, and are targeting this sector. It is a trend that’s set to grow in the UK and the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has partnered with National Museums Scotland to offer PANKs an opportunity to get up close with woolly mammoths and share quality time and experiences with their cherished nieces and nephews.

The Sheraton Grand’s package includes accommodation in a luxury bedroom, tickets to the Mammoths of the Ice Age exhibition, unique in-room amenities including a chocolate Mammoth lollypop with a Mammoth milk-shake, plus a Mammoth badge, wall planner and activity leaflet.

The Mammoths of the Ice Age exhibition has travelled to the National Museum of Scotland for the first UK showing of this interactive and family-friendly exhibition which was created by the world-renowned Field Museum in Chicago. This major exhibition explores the remarkable animals of the Ice Age and showcases an extensive collection of significant objects from this era, from real woolly mammoth hair and preserved dung to rare mammoth fossils and enormous life-size replica models. The exhibition, which runs until 20th April 2014, is accompanied by a series of fun events and activities for children at the National Museum of Scotland, including Trunks and Tales themed story sessions on Saturdays and Sundays throughout March.

At the end of a fun-filled day, the children can flop on their Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and chill out with their favourite movie.

Tristan Nesbitt, the General Manager at the Sheraton Grand said: “We have created a unique experience that is sure to appeal to the PANK demographic. Our Mammoth Package will provide a fascinating experience for the children while their aunt can enjoy the relaxing facilities at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, ensuring happy memories that will last a lifetime.”

The Mammoth Package starts at £205 per room per night which includes twin-bedded accommodation, special in-room amenities and access to the swimming pool in One Spa. Special family highlights include a complimentary late check-out (up to 4pm), a complimentary children’s in-room movie and kids under 12 eat free in One Square. As an added incentive, the hotel will offer a 50% discount on a second room that is booked for a family. The ticket costs for the Mammoths exhibition will be added on at point of reservation (starting at £9 per adult and £6 for children, aged 5-15). View the website for full details, ticket prices and terms and conditions. For reservations, please call the Resort Sales Team on 0131 229 9131 or email grandedinburgh@sheraton.com

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR

Submitted by Emma Offord

Macmillan Cancer Support is urging people to look out their trainers and sign up to the Scotland Kilomathon on Sunday 16 March.

There are three Kilomathon distances to choose from – the 13.1k is an excellent distance for those looking to step-up from a 10k and training for a half/marathon, or looking for a bridging gap between a 10k & a half marathon.  The 6.55k is an ideal step-up from a 5k, or as a stepping stone to the 10k distance.  The 2.62k junior race is a fun race for kids and takes place in Murrayfield Stadium, the home of Scottish Rugby.

Runners take in the historic Royal Yacht Britannia, picturesque Victoria Park and enjoy tranquil cycle paths before a fantastic finish in front of the West Stand at Murrayfield Stadium.

Fundraising Manager for Edinburgh, Jayne Forbes, said: “The Kilomathon is a fantastic way to support Macmillan and there is a choice of distances for all the family.

“Knowing that every mile you cover is raising money for people affected by cancer will give you real motivation to keep going with your fitness programme.”

“We provide comprehensive training, nutrition and kit advice, as well as very simple ideas to raise money.”

All the money raised from the run will be used to fund Macmillan’s vital cancer services, from specialist nurses and doctors, to help and advice for people who have financial problems as a result of their cancer.

For more information on taking on a run for Macmillan please contact fundraising@macmillan.org.uk or 0300 1000 200.  Please see all our running events at www.macmillan.org.uk/running

Hibs’ stars Ben Williams and Tom Taiwo were guests of the Club’s Community Foundation last night at the celebration event to congratulate the men and women who successfully completed the latest Football Fans in Training and Healthy Hibee courses at Easter Road Stadium.

The event was held within the Edinburgh Suite in the West Stand and compared by Operations Manager Stewart McGuire.

Deputy Director of Institute of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Glasgow Sally Wyke provided an informative presentation regarding the success of the initiative which is ongoing at all 12 SPFL clubs and revealed that the Hibs’ fans’ weight loss was higher than the average throughout the country.

During the latest courses which finished last month, a total of sixteen men and eight women survived the Christmas break in action to finish a total of 12 weeks of health, nutrition and fitness education, resulting in a total weight loss of 82 kg for the men and 18 kg for the women. The men reduced their waist measurement by a total of 1.64 metres and the women reduced their waist measurement almost two-thirds of a metre!

Importantly, both groups were able to monitor their blood pressure and heart rate over the term of the course and were provided additional information about smoking cessation, bowel cancer and heart disease.

Everyone was then presented with a Training Top and  photographed with Ben and Tom before the pair took part in a question and answer session and the fans were keen to learn about the clubs training regime and players diets.

Tom Taiwo said: “Today we spent about 30 minutes in the gym then took part in a 90 minute highly intense training session before going back into the gym for another 30 minutes. As you all know, even half an hour working to your limits is enough to achieve what you need to achieve. Tomorrow is a recovery day and it’s vital to train hard then let your body recover.

“At away matches when we have a long bus ride home, some of the boys will prepare a healthy meal such as pastas and chicken in a Tupperware box to eat after the game to replace the fuel instead of binging on something quick like pizza.

Goalkeeper Ben Williams added: “My training is different and more specialised. Mine is short and sharp and I can probably burn as much energy in 10 minutes doing what I do than the lads do in half an hour or even 45 minutes. We try and maintain a solid diet throughout. I don’t calorie count, for me, everything in moderation, as long as I work hard in training and work it off, I’m happy with that.  Subtle changes in diet have worked for me such as full fat milk replaced by semi-skimmed, no butter on toast etc. Little things make a difference in the long term. On a Friday the meals that we get supplied at the Training Centre will be a lot more carbs based such as pastas.

“To be honest, the manager does push us hard in training but not much harder that Pat did which may be a surprise to a few people. Terry and Maurice have both been honest and said that when they came to the club they weren’t expecting us to be as fit as we were or work as hard in training as we do. We have an honest bunch of lads and every day everyone wants to work hard for each other.

“In terms of facilities at East Mains, the sky is the limit. You can create your own facilities and take yourself down the park but the facilities are there to help you improve as a player and that’s half the battle. We have a great gym and access to sports scientists and great physios and the whole set up is fantastic.

Healthy Hibee is funded by Pfizer Foundation UK and promotes health improvement for men and women of all ages through nutrition, physical activity and basic health screening. FFiT is funded by the SPFL Trust and supports overweight men between the ages of 35 and 65 to lose weight and reduce their waist measurement.　 People who complete the course can become part of Hibernian’s Fit for Change group which meets weekly to help them continue toward achieving personal goals.

Hibs’ youngster Scott Martin has agreed a two-and-a-half year Academy contract with the club.

It’s been a memorable week for the 16-year-old who featured as a substitute in the under-20s’ mini Edinburgh Derby win on Tuesday night before playing for Scotland under-17s against Serbia.

Then the Glasgow-born teenager told Hibernian TV:”It was a brilliant week for me – it couldn’t have got any better.

“I’m just delighted to be a part of the under-20s squad and now I want to kick on and hopefully progress even more.”

Head of Academy Coaching James McDonaugh believes Martin has earned his contract through sheer hard work.

McDonaugh said: “Scott has worked hard to get his contract. After spending a season-and-a-half with the under-17s, he started playing for the under-20s.

“His first start at under-20 level was against Aberdeen and that convinced everybody that he was ready to now make the step up.

“Scott has got a good attitude and work-rate and has already scored goals for the club in the East of Scotland League.

“He is a good addition to the full-time under-20 squad and I look forward to seeing him continuing his progress at Hibernian.”

Photo by John Preece

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

The Dnipro Kids Appeal charity is looking for volunteers to help with a pre-match bucket collection before the Dundee United match next Friday night (28 February, kick off 7.45pm).

Every donation will help to make a significant difference to the lives of the children of Dnipropetrovsk.

As many volunteers as possible are needed to shake a bucket at the turnstiles for around 30 minutes prior to the game.

Anyone interested in making a difference should email steven@dniprokids.com. Buckets can be collected from the Clubstore from 6.30pm.

During Hibs’ 2005 UEFA Cup trip to Dnipropetrovsk, supporters saw the unbearable conditions forced upon the orphans and decided to make a difference.

It all started with a one-off bucket collection, prior to the club’s home UEFA cup game against FC Dnipro, in September 2005, soon becoming a fully-fledged charity within a few months.

Over the following years the generous spirit of Hibs’ fans has raised well over £15,000 for the Dnipro Kids Appeal to aid orphaned children in Ukraine.

Sixteen males have been charged with housebreaking offences following another week of Operation RAC enforcement activity in Edinburgh.

Officers investigating various break-ins, thefts and attempted break-ins across the Capital identified the individuals aged 13-36-years-old over the past seven days and reported them for over 200 acquisitive crimes.

As a result of this activity housebreaking detection in Edinburgh has risen to 61 per cent between 11th and 18th February, with the average detection rate for the city now at over 51 per cent since the beginning of 2014.

Each of those arrested has either appeared in court during this week or is currently subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

Detective Inspector John Kavanagh said: “This has been another excellent week of housebreaking detections across Edinburgh, with 16 people now subject to legal proceedings as part of Operation RAC.

“The public can rest assured that we will continue to pursue all lines of enquiry to bring acquisitive crime offenders to justice and would urge anyone who witnesses a housebreaking, or with information relating to those involved in crimes of this nature to contact police immediately.

“Police Scotland is also committed to crime prevention and is currently involved in a partnership scheme with SmartWater that aims to deter and reduce break-ins in the Grange and Greenbank areas of the cities.

“Other communities across Edinburgh can also play a vital part in preventing acquisitive crime from occurring by taking the necessary security measures to safeguard their homes, businesses and outbuildings.

“Anyone wishing information on keeping their property and belongings safe can speak with their local policing team.”