The popular Alive After Five campaign starts in the heart of Edinburgh today with city centre shops opening later than usual and parking charges waived on many streets from 5pm.

Scotland’s most senior medical officer has called on people with underlying health conditions in the Lothians to get protected from flu following the release of new figures showing that over half of people in this group were still to be vaccinated this year.

Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, Sir Harry Burns made his plea as new figures were released for flu vaccination uptake since the campaign started on 1 October 2013. The figures show that a number of people have yet to be vaccinated in the Lothians NHS area, including:

– 54 per cent of people under 65 with underlying health problems such as asthma and diabetes

– 58 per cent of pregnant women

– 56 per cent of two and three year olds

Getting protected from flu is important for individuals with underlying health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, MS and other heart, lung and liver problems and  those suffering from lowered immunity) as well as pregnant women. These groups can be hit harder with flu and can suffer more serious complications, even if they previously felt fit and healthy.

Catching flu can cause unnecessary worry for friends and family as well as posing a risk of spreading the virus.

Sir Harry said, “Flu strikes suddenly and it’s important to be prepared. If you have a long-term medical condition, the best way to protect yourself is to get the vaccine. It is not too late for those who have not received their flu vaccine to do so.

“The flu vaccine only takes a few minutes, but will offer protection for around 12 months.”

“It is equally as important to ensure that if your child is invited to get vaccinated against flu, you take up the offer as children are unlikely to have built up immunity from previous infections. In fact, youngsters are two to three times as likely to be ill with flu than adults.

Dr Lorna Willocks, Flu Immunisation Co-ordinator at NHS Lothian, said: “Flu survives better in a cold environment and flu viruses will circulate across Scotland as we move deeper into winter.  People need to be aware that flu is much worse than a bad cold and can make adults and children very unwell.

“If you are in an eligible group then it’s very important to ensure that you are vaccinated to reduce the risk of you catching flu and suffer serious complications. I would like to urge all remaining local people who are eligible for the flu vaccine to speak with their GP practice to arrange to get their free vaccination.”

If you would like to find out more information about the flu vaccine, contact NHS Inform on 0800 22 44 88 or log on to www.immunisationscotland.org.uk.

Police Scotland has launched an online survey that aims to give members of the Edinburgh business community the opportunity to shape policing in the Capital in the future.

The survey, which from today is available to complete on the Police Scotland website, seeks the views of businesses on how policing should be delivered across the city over a three-year period.

The Edinburgh Policing Plan 2014-2017 will outline the approach that will be taken in communities across the Capital, based on local priorities.

Police want the business community in the city to have their say on the plan, and are making contact with them in order to canvass views.

The consultation process gets underway today with the launch of the online survey, which can be accessed through the following link

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/EdinburghBusinessPolicePlan2014-17

There has also been a series of community sessions held across all city neighbourhoods, as well as a stakeholder summit planned for early 2014.

Superintendent Matt Richards, from Police Scotland, said: “The policing plan will be fundamental to our approach to policing Edinburgh over the period 2014-2017, and it is vital that people play their part in helping to inform the content of the plan.

“The online business survey is a great opportunity for business people to have their say in how policing is delivered in the Capital, and we want as many as possible to get involved, so that we can shape our plans around what is important to our local business community.

“Last year our consultation highlighted that both local businesses and large international corporations wanted more communication around priorities, trends and operations so as to work in partnership with the police to ensure a safer and prosperous city. The survey offers this opportunity.

“Policing our communities and keeping people safe are enduring priorities for Police Scotland, and we are committed to ongoing engagement with those who live and work in Edinburgh as we follow a common path to make our communities safer and stronger.”

One of Scotland’s largest colleges has received a string of accolades at a national competition recognising the most talented students from across a variety of subjects, from beauty therapy to building crafts and carpentry.

A group of Edinburgh College’s top performing students was invited to compete in World Skills 2013, the UK’s largest skills and careers competition. The event allows students to build on their skills, test their knowledge against their peers and showcase their potential to current and future employers.

The two-day competition, which was held at the NEC in Birmingham, saw four Edinburgh College students take to the stage to compete in skills performances and live competitions under the watchful eyes of the judges.

After two days of intense competition, Maria-Dolores Lopez-Fernandez from the Hairdressing, Beauty and Complementary Therapies Team was awarded a Highly Commended Award in the Aromatherapy Open Competition for her outstanding skills.

Maria-Dolores Lopez-Fernandez said: “After winning first place in the Scottish heats, I was excited to have the opportunity to experience the Birmingham finals. My love for aromatherapy and the fabulous teaching I experienced at Edinburgh College has given me the determination and passion to do this for the rest of my life.”

In a closely fought competition, Edinburgh College carpentry student Oliver Beatson and electrical student Alexander Gardiner managed to claim the Highly Commended Award in their categories. Both Oliver and Alexander managed to achieve second place in the Scottish World Skills competitions held earlier in the year.

The computing team at Edinburgh College, which has won gold at the awards for the last two years, gained another accolade thanks to former student Lorenz de Wilde who was selected for the Microsoft Network Administrator Advanced category.

Lorenz studied HND Computer Networking and Internet Technology and now studies at Edinburgh Napier University. He said: “My lecturer encouraged me to go for the competition and I’m pleased to have been given the opportunity to take part in such a huge event.”

“We were given a scenario on a virtual machine at the competition and we had four to six hours each day to compete the task. The judges then examine the machines to assess how you have tackled the issue. It’s very hands-on and it was a great experience to compete.”

Mandy Exley, principal at Edinburgh College, said: “We are delighted to have been given the honour to compete in such a high profile event. World Skills really showcases the brilliant work of students across the UK and highlights the next generation of talented and skilled employees. We’re incredibly proud of all of our students who have taken part in the competition.”

BT is appealing to schools across Scotland to help people in their local communities get online in time for Christmas.

BT has teamed up with children’s charity, The Transformation Trust, to run BT Digital Champions, a free initiative for schools which enables students to share their internet skills and help people get online for the first time or improve their existing skills.

BT Digital Champions aims to help 20,000 people in the UK improve their online skills. Students across Scotland can compete to get the most people online.

As a reward for completing BT Digital Champions activity, schools will receive free tickets for Rock Assembly 2014, which takes place at Wembley Arena in London on July 9 2014. As an extra incentive, The BT Digital Champions Christmas Challenge will reward the top three schools that help the most people to get online this term with some amazing prizes, including all-in-one computers and VIP seats at Rock Assembly. The highest performing student will get the chance to meet some of the celebrity music acts at the concert.

More than 7 million UK adults have never been online. BT Digital Champions, which is part of BT’s Connected Society programme, aims to build the confidence and skills of individuals to get online and get more out of life whether they are trying simple activities, such as keeping in touch with family, or using the internet to make major changes to their lives, such as finding a new job.

Liz Turner, BT Scotland’s head of corporate responsibility, said: “This initiative not only provides huge benefit to our local communities but also gives students the opportunity to win fantastic prizes for themselves and their school – simply by sharing their knowledge with others and volunteering their time and skills to help someone get online. It would be great to see Scottish schools sign up to help get people in their community online.”

Students who took part in BT Digital Champions previously reported that, as well as helping their local community, they benefited personally from getting involved.

Around 78 per cent of students said they felt more confident, 81 per cent said they had learnt something new, 86 per cent felt they had achieved something worthwhile and 88 per cent felt more motivated to do better at school after taking part.

All students taking part receive a certificate and wristband in recognition of their volunteering efforts.

Amy Leonard, chief executive of The Transformation Trust, said: “Our mission is to help students to become their ‘best selves’ and BT Digital Champions presents a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain valuable skills and experience for the workplace whilst helping others.

“We will be rewarding schools with some brilliant Christmas prizes, and of course, are looking forward to celebrating with everyone at The Transformation Trust’s end of term concert, Rock Assembly 2014.”

Students can spend their own time training a family member or friend as homework or schools can organise group training sessions with full resources and support provided.     Teachers are invited to register for the programme at www.btdigitalchampions.com or call 0207 993 3516.

Firefighters have attended a number of fires in the Portobello including a tenement block of flats in the Bath Street.

Ten residents which included two children were treated at the scene by Firefighters and Ambulance personnel for ‘mild’ smoke inhalation following a fire within the tenement block of flats in Bath Street.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to the incident at 6:30pm on Sunday evening (1st December), to which local fire crews from Musselburgh, Newcraighall, Liberton and Marionville were immediately dispatched. Upon their arrival, crews were met with a fire within the common stair of the five storey tenement property, which caused heavy smoke. Firefighters used ladders and specialist high reach equipment to remove six residents, which included the two children from upper floors, leading them to a place of safety as well as leading four residents from ground level. The fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, using main water jets and none of the residents required hospital treatment.

Group Manager Jimmy Melvin from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “The heavy smoke logging within the common area of this block of flats which caused the residents a great deal of distress and disruption. The first attending crews worked quickly to lead 10 residents to safety whilst the fire was extinguished and the area made safe. Some residents were re-assured by Firefighters at the scene and remained within their homes, taking advice from Firefighters to conceal doorways to prevent smoke entering and to move to a safe room within the flat.”

At 6.50pm the first crew were also called out to Bridge Street where a bicycle was set alight in a stair.  Firefighters out the fire out using breathing apparatus and one high pressure hose.  One woman was treated for smoke inhalation but didn’t need hospital treatment.

At 7.20pm crews were called to a third fire in a four storey block at Kings Place at the foot of Kings Road. The fire was extinguished using a high pressure hose and six firefighters using breathing apparatus.

Two wheelie bins were also set on fire in a stairwell at Loganlea Place.

The fire service are carrying out their investigations into the causes of these fires.

With the fire starting in the common entrance to the property, Group Manager Melvin also gave some sound advice: “Residents should avoid placing refuse or any combustible material in these common areas, as this increases the risk of fires starting.”

Inspector Neil Clyde from the local police team has also been in touch with local Councillors. CID officers are carrying out the investigation in conjunction with the Fire Service’s fire investigation team. In addition to the initial door to door enquiries, community police officers in the area are doing letter drops to establish whether we might have seen anybody suspicious hanging around?   High visibility patrols will be carried out this evening in the area.  Police are also linking in with the local Council community safety manager Derek McGowan and his team.

If you have any information that would help identify culprits, please do contact the police through 101 (directly) or face-to-face as officers are on patrol or knocking on our doors or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (anonymously).

To arrange a free Home Fire Safety Visit for you or someone you know, call The Scottish Fire & Rescue on 0800 0731 999 or text “check” to 61611. You can also get in touch by calling your local community fire station.

An Edinburgh swimming programme which has boosted the number of children able to swim has won recognition for its success working with diverse communities.

Swimming Top Up, which is delivered by Edinburgh Leisure in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council, has been Highly Commended by the Children & Families Achievement Awards.

The Swimming Top Up programme, supported by Scottish Swimming,  aims to increase the number of children who can swim by providing high quality coaching targeting youngsters who may not have otherwise had the opportunity.

Scottish Government funding has enabled teacher/pupil ratios to be reduced, helping a further 500 children learn this vital life skill.

The programme runs across Scotland’s local authorities to support Scottish Swimming’s aim to see all children able to swim by the time they leave primary school.

Award success is not new to the Edinburgh programme, which won the Scottish Swimming National Top Up Award in 2012.

Edinburgh Leisure research shows that children from lower income families are far less likely to participate in swimming and other coached activities.

Debra Taylor, Swimming Education Co-ordinator at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “We are delighted that this excellent partnership with City of Edinburgh Council has been recognised again.

“Swimming is more than just sport; it is an essential life skill that keeps us safe, as well as providing countless opportunities for fun, fitness and friendship throughout our lifetime.

“Reducing teacher/pupil ratios allows more individual attention and encouragement to be given, which can have a profound impact on the rate at which children progress.

“It is fantastic to see how team Top Up is taking us closer to the goal of enabling as many children as possible to learn how to swim by the end of their primary school years.”

Hibs will face Raith Rovers at Easter Road in the fifth round of the William Hill Scottish Cup. The tie will be played on the weekend of 8/9 February 2014 and ticket prices will be announced in due course.

The Starks Park outfit currently sit third in the SPFL Championship table and are managed by Grant Murray.

The draw was made at Hampden Park at 2pm by former Hibs star Kenny Miller.

The full draw is as follows:

Alloa Athletic v Dumbarton

Clyde or Stranraer v Inverness Caledonian Thistle

Hibernian v Raith Rovers

Albion Rovers v Stenhousemuir

Brechin City or Forfar Athletic v St Johnstone

Celtic v Aberdeen

Dundee United v Queen of the South or St Mirren

Rangers v Ayr United or Dunfermline Athletic

The Marchmont & Sciennes Community Christmas tree will be lit next Saturday at 4pm.

Special Guest Ron Butlin, the Makar of Edinburgh, will preside. Join with James Gillespies High School Brass Ensemble and the JG Primary School Choir to sing traditional carols.

The ceremony will take place where Marchmont Crescent meets Warrender Park Road.

Take part in the Local Shops’ T O M B O L A – Buy something and enter each shop’s Lucky Dip From 1pm to 5.30pm on Saturday 7 December only.

Participating shops (in order from lower Argyle Place to top of Marchmont Road): Meadowlark Café, The New Leaf, Bodywell, Marchmont Hardware, Ishii Hair, Bohemia, Doodles, Pastures Café, March Hair, Marchmont Gallery, Marchmont Pharmacy (closes 3.30pm), Save the Date, Cork & Cask, Right Pharmacy (round corner in Grange Road)

LOTHIAN BUSES GROTTO BUS HITS THE ROAD

Lothian Buses Launch Christmas in Style

A special Christmas grotto bus designed to spread joy to families across the city has been launched today by Lothian Buses to support its charity of the year.

The special bus which was officially opened by Chief Executive, Ian Craig and the Lothian Buses family, the Walkers will travel the city in December to help spread Christmas cheer and raise funds for children’s cancer charity It’s Good 2 Give.

On Sunday the 8th, 15th and 22nd of December, between 12pm and 4pm, the Grotto bus will be stationed on Waverley Bridge, where children will have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive a token gift donated by sponsors Aldi and Tunnocks for a charitable donation which will go to It’s Good 2 Give.

As part of the festivities, the bus will also go on special trips to local schools across Edinburgh to visit children including Kaimes Special School in Gilmerton.

Ian Craig, Chief Executive of Lothian Buses, said:- “We are delighted that once again we can bring some festive cheer to the residents and visitors of Edinburgh. We hope that the young and old will enter into the Christmas spirit and join us at one of our events across the city to support our admirable Charity of the Year, It’s Good 2 Give.”

Lynne McNicoll, Founder of It’s Good 2 Give, commented:- “Lothian Buses Santa’s grotto bus is a great way for families across Edinburgh to get into the Christmas spirit. We are extremely grateful for the support the bus will provide our charity, with donations going towards helping young people with cancer and their families in Edinburgh and the Lothian’s.”

On Saturday 7 December, the bus will pop up in Midlothian as part of the Dalkeith Christmas light switch on. This will be an opportunity for local residents to meet Santa and find out information on the New Year’s Day services that have been introduced to and from Midlothian for the first time.

Lothian Buses will also be selling It’s Good 2 Gives’ Christmas cards in their Travelshops and online throughout December.

Police in Edinburgh are continuing with their appeal for information following a firearms incident in the west of the city on Monday 25th November 2013.

Tonight, a week after the event, officers from Police Scotland will be conducting enquiries in the Glasgow Road area at Ratho Station and will be stopping vehicles that may also have travelled the same route one week ago.

Officers are now keen to trace a motorcycle that travelled along the A8 following shots being heard and made its way onto the city Bypass, via the Gogar roundabout.

It is believed that this motorcycle may have also travelled on both carriageways of the A8 prior to the incident as well.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston, who is leading the investigation, said: “The investigation has established that following the sound of shots a dark coloured motorcycle made its way at speed, along the A8 dual carriageway past the entrance to the Royal Bank of Scotland, and thereafter towards the Gogar roundabout, before makings its way onto the City bypass.”

“I am keen to trace the occupants of a dark coloured seven-seater vehicle which was also travelling on the roundabout at this time and may have had to take evasive action to avoid a collision with this motorcycle as it entered the roundabout.”

“Officers tonight will be re-visiting the scene a week on with a view to speaking to as many people as possible who may have been on the road at this time. I appreciate the patience of the public, who may be stopped and spoken to this evening, but this is essential to further our enquiries and I would ask if anyone has any information to the officers tonight or contact us on 101. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Police Scotland is appealing for witnesses following a robbery at an Edinburgh convenience store.

The incident happened around 11am on Saturday (30th November) at the Marionville Newsagent, Marionville Road.

A 63-year-old man was working alone inside when a male entered and threatened the staff member. He then proceeded to steal a quantity of cigarettes, with the help of a second male who had entered the store.

A third male was outside the store as a lookout.  All three then made off into Dalgety Avenue and were lost to sight.

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

The first suspect is described as white, 25-30-years-old, 5ft 10ins tall, medium build, wearing a black beanie hat, black gloves, black top with white toggle, grey jogging bottoms and white trainers.

The second suspect is described as white, 17-19-years-old, 5ft 7ins tall, slim build, dark coloured top with hood, dark tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

The third suspect is described as white, 17-19-years-old, 5ft 7ins tall, dark hair, wearing a grey hooded top with “OSAKA” written on the front, dark tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

Detective Sergeant Graham Grant said: “The member of staff was not injured during this incident, however is understandably shaken up.

“We are keen to trace the suspects as soon as possible and would ask members of the public to get in touch if they remember seeing any suspicious activity in or around the Marionville Road area on Saturday morning.

“Anyone who can help us identify the male responsible for this robbery is also asked to contact police immediately.”

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

Edinburgh’s West End is the ideal place to shop for those special gifts this Christmas whilst enjoying a festive drink and mince pies. Join us with your family and friends on Thursday 5 December 2013 from 3.30 onwards and savour the festive atmosphere.

The late night shopping experience will include a life size live ice carving of a Polar Bear on the corner of William, Stafford and Alva Streets. This wonderful piece of art will unfold before your eyes as it takes an estimated 4 hours to create the magical beast. The carving will start at 3.30pm and continue until completion at around 7:30pm so that the Polar Bear can be admired by all at the end of the evening.

Sponsoring the Polar Bear is CoolSculpting and Face & Body cosmetic clinic who specialises in using the CoolSculpting fat freeze technique to permanently eliminate stubborn fat areas for body contouring.

Enjoy Christmas carols with a live choir which will spread some festive cheer along with mince pies supplied by Nikki’s Sandwich Bar. Plus many of the retail outlets will be serving mulled wine to chase those winter chills away making for a very special West End Evening.

Watch out for the Ad Bike that will be zooming around Edinburgh spreading the festive word of the special late night shopping event in the West End for all the family.

Victoria Dobbie Medical Director of Face & Body said:- “The West End is filled with great independent retailers who can make your Christmas shopping easier and more of a delight and fun for all the family. Face & Body with CoolSculpting are proud to be supporting the West End as a destination to explore and discover this Christmas”.

The West End has everything you need this Christmas from; boutiques, jewellers, hairdressing salons for that all important Christmas haircut, the best in cosmetic clinics and beauty treatments to leave you feeling extra special as well as merry bars, pubs and restaurants to enjoy the best party season yet. So make your Christmas a West End one.

Tattoo tickets on sale today – Need some plants for your garden? – New exhibition at Open Eye – RNLI fundraising this Christmas – Blackwell’s Book Quiz tonight!

The tickets for the 2014 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo go on sale today. Here is the advert.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iM5hmM1ajG8?list=UUhGDi6d3B3yAY3GRQjokQZA]

***

Date for your diary! Inch Nursery winter plant sale will run Mon 2nd Dec- Mon 19th Dec, 10am-2pm each day.

— Edinburgh Outdoors (@EdinOutdoors) November 22, 2013

***

There is a new exhibition at Open Eye Gallery from today until 23 December 2013.

The Christmas Exhibition, On a Small Scale, comprises a show of over 600 paintings, drawings and prints all at A5 size.

In the other spaces in the gallery there will be recent works by John Byrne, Allan Davie, Ian Hamilton Finlay and Philip Reeves. More information here.

***

The lifeboat at South Queensferry is the busiest inshore lifeboat in the UK. The RNLI depend on fundraising so have a look at this video here.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBzxNQd0T3I]

***

Tonight at 6:00pm there will be a book quiz in Blackwells on Nicolson Street.

Join us for Blackwell Bookshop’s monthly BOOK QUIZ. We will quiz you on anything from Classics to current Bestsellers, Booker Prize winners to Celebrity Biographies.

Teams of up to five people can take part.

It is FREE to enter, but seats are limited so please come early to secure your place. There are no tickets required for this evening of fun!

More details here.

Rugby by John Preece

It was back to the day job for the International players this weekend and Edinburgh took advantage of having their players return with a comprehensive 43-10 win over Connacht in the 9th Round of the RaboDirect PRO12 League. Just sneaking ahead at the break with a 42nd minute try, Edinburgh scored themselves out of site with three tries in the final eight minutes of play. The win moves them up to eighth in the table, sandwiched between the Scarlets and the Blues with 17 points. (Photo – Ross Rennie getting pulled up inches short of scoring)

The club season returned to a full programme with all three of Edinburgh’s Senior clubs in action in the Premiership. Heriots were in Ayr where they beat the current champions 17-5. In the only other match to feature local teams, Currie squeezed past Edinburgh Academy 40-39 at Raeburn Place to take their second top-team scalp in as many rounds.

The table now stands with Heriots still in third with 46 points, Accies climb a place to fifth – courtesy of try and losing bonus points – with 30, but Currie doggedly remain at the bottom, in spite of their recent good form, with 19 points.

In the National League, Boroughmuir, Stewarts-Melville and Watsonians all won. ‘Muir beat Peebles 27-10 at Meggetland, Stew-Mel beat Selkirk 16-13 at Inverleith and, in the highest score of the day – anywhere – Watsonians saw off Hillhead/Jordanhill to the tune of 85 (eighty five)-10.

In the league table, Boroughmuir, Watsonians and Stewarts-Melville are still in the top three places with 55, 47 and 46 points respectively.

With only five league weekends to go, only Heriots look like being able to do anything about the top two teams in the Premiership, Gala and Melrose, but in the National League a couple of bad results from Boroughmuir and there is a three-way chase for the title. Then, there is always the PL 9th v NL 2nd play-off…..

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AXEGXnMRKU?list=PLclPnIJd8nRvOMif68Ox5tx9ldaYsuaKU&w=560&h=315]

Football

Mixed fortunes again for the Edinburgh clubs in the William Hill Scottish Cup this weekend. On Saturday Hibs travelled to Dingwall where they recorded their first ever win against Ross County thanks to a Danny Handling goal, then the following day, Hearts slumped to their worst home defeat in 40 years when Celtic scored seven without reply at Tynecastle.

Hibs face Partick Thistle at Easter Road whilst Hearts travel to Tayside to play on form Dundee United at Tannadice next Saturday.

Scottish Sun Lowland Football League

Dalbeattie Star 4-1 Gala Fairydean

Edinburgh City 1-5 Gretna 2008

Preston Athletic 1-2 East Kilbride

Whitehill Welfare 4-1 Threave Rovers

Central Taxis EOS Premier Division

Civil Service Strollers 0-3 Coldstream

Spartans EOS 2-3 Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale

Leith Athletic 1-1 Edinburgh University

Central Taxis EOS First Division

Hawick Royal Albert 1-3 Easthouses Lily MW

Hibernian 7-1 Eyemouth United

South Challenge Cup, Second Round North & East Zone

Vale of Leithen 6-0 Kelso United

Heriot-Watt University 3-1 Craigroyston

University of Stirling 4-1 Tynecastle

King Cup, First Round

Selkirk 5-3 Ormiston AET

Peebles Rovers 3-2 Duns

Friendly

Spartans 0-1 East Stirlingshire

Basketball

Troon Tornadoes SM   76-59   Glasgow University SM

City of Edinburgh Kings SM   61-77   Clark Eriksson Fury SM

Boroughmuir Blaze SM   62-80   Glasgow Rocks SM

Glasgow Storm   65-102   St Mirren West College Scotland SM

Stirling Knights SM   72-56   Dunfermline Reign SM

Volleyball

Division One Men

Bon Accord 1 3 City of Edinburgh 18 – 25 21 – 25 25 – 21 20 – 25

Beacon Fire 0 3 City of Glasgow Ragazzi 15 – 25 18 – 25 14 – 25

South Ayrshire  3 0 Dundee 25 – 15 25 – 19 25 – 18

Edinburgh Jets 3 2 Glasgow Mets 25 – 23 21 – 25 26 – 24 19 – 25 17 – 15

Division One Women

Edinburgh Jets II 0 3 Su Ragazzi 14 – 25 9 – 25 6 – 25

Edinburgh Jets 3 1 QTS Troon Team Ayrshire 25 – 23 21 – 25 26 – 24 25 – 16

Aberdonia 0 3 City of Edinburgh  14 – 25 10 – 25 6 – 25

North Lanarkshire 3 0 QTS Kyle TA 25 – 12 25 – 14 25 – 15

Division Two East Men

Bellshill Cardinals 0 3 Su Ragazzi II 15 – 25 20 – 25 24 – 26

Beacon Flame 1 3 Edinburgh Jets II 25 – 20 18 – 25 22 – 25 19 – 25

NUVOC 1 3 City of Edinburgh II 17 – 25 25 – 11 22 – 25 19 – 25

Division Two Women

South Ayrshire 0 3 Dundee 0 – 25 0 – 25 0 – 25

NUVOC 3 0 Glasgow International 25 – 16 25 – 22 25 – 10

Ice Hockey by John Preece

The Edinburgh Capitals came back from 3-1 down at the end of the first period to score in overtime to beat The Braehead Clan 5-4. 4-3 up with 11 seconds to go, it was looking like a win, but a goal from the Clan meant that the Capitals’ supporters had to endure a nail-biter of a sudden death overtime period. Still, it all worked out well…

On Sunday, the Caps beat Coventry Blaze 5-4 at Murrayfield.

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

William Hill Scottish Cup 4th Round Sunday 1 December 2013 – Tynecastle Stadium

The last two winners of the William Hill Scottish Cup clashed at Tynecastle on Sunday in front of 10,636 fans and several hundred thousand watching on BBC Scotland television. Much has changed for the 2012 winners in the intervening period since their 5-1 triumph over Hibernian and this was evident as the current cup holders put them to the sword in Gorgie.

Hearts were destroyed by a devastating first half display by the best team in Scotland. Kris Commons began the rout with a shot that went in off the post after just three minutes and he added a second in the 21st minute. Former Hibernian player Scott Brown made it three in the 34th minute before Ledley and Lustig added to Hearts woes to make the half-time score an astonishing 5-0 to Celtic.

Hearts were the victim of a harsh decision by referee Willie Collum on the hour mark when he awarded the visitors a penalty after Danny Wilson appeared to handle Commons’ shot in the penalty box – although deciding it was intentional seemed to be stretching things a bit. Commons duly despatched the penalty to complete his hat-trick for Celtic’s sixth. Brown grabbed his double and Celtic’s seventh goal 15 minutes from the end to complete a thoroughly miserable afternoon for Hearts.

Hearts: MacDonald, McGhee, McHattie, Hamill, McGowan, Wilson, Robinson, Smith, Paterson, Stevenson, Walker

Celtic: Forster, Lustig, Izaguirre, Biton, Ambrose, van Dijk, Brown, Ledley, Stokes, Commons, Mulgrew

Referee: Willie Collum

Att: 10,636

Top man: I’ll pass on this. Today was one to forget for every Hearts player and supporter

An exclusive shopping event will take place on Tuesday 3 December 2013, from 6.30-8.30pm, at Crabtree & Evelyn on Hanover Street, Edinburgh, to raise funds for veterans’ charity PoppyScotland.

Tickets cost £10 each and in return guests will receive a goody bag (worth £9), mini hand treatments, beauty demonstrations and refreshments. There will also be a raffle and 15% of all sales on the night will be donated to PoppyScotland.

Although the 2013 Scottish Poppy Appeal is over, PoppyScotland needs to raise money all year round to continue its work, supporting veterans and their families living in Scotland.

East of Scotland Community Fundraiser Kirstie R-Mitchell said: “We are very grateful to Crabtree & Evelyn for giving us this opportunity. It promises to be an enjoyable evening and we hope that people will come along to enjoy some winter pampering, perhaps buy a Christmas gift or two, all the while knowing they are making a contribution to the wellbeing of Scotland’s Armed Forces community.”

To buy tickets call 0131 550 1547 or email k.r-mitchell@poppyscotland.org.uk

Ian Murray MP pledged his support for local shops when he met with local retailer Dennis Williams at the Association of Convenience Stores’ Heart of the Community reception to celebrate the important role that local shops play in our communities.

Heart of the Community is an annual event which brings retailers from across the country face to face with MPs to air their concerns about the future of the sector.

Ian said:- “Local shops provide essential goods and services in our communities and it is vital that MPs show support for these retailers both in Westminster and the local area – they really are at the heart of communities and Government must to everything they can to ensure that they succeed during this difficult economic time.”

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said:- “We welcome the support of Ian Murray MP in recognising the importance of the convenience stores and the services and jobs they provide in South Edinburgh.  Businesses face many competing challenges, from rising rates and energy bills to increasing pressure from small format supermarkets. It is now more important than ever that MPs engage with their local small business community, and work to ensure Government cuts and new regulations will not harm small business or undermine consumer confidence.”

Hibs boss Terry Butcher has played down the altercation with striker Ross Caldwell at the end of the game against Ross County on Saturday after the youngster was substituted despite only having been on the pitch for just over ten minutes.

As he left the field, Butcher attempted to explain his decision; however Caldwell ignored him and walked straight down the tunnel. Butcher then grabbed hold of the player who shrugged him off.

After the game, Butcher spoke about the incident and confirmed that action will be taken against Caldwell but that he remains a key player for the club.

He said: “He wasn’t happy and there were a few words exchanged in the dressing room, but he’s a good player, we like him and I like him a lot. He looked absolutely out on his feet and he ran about but probably  couldn’t get his second wind and we thought we would have to make a substitution and James Collins seemed to grow in confidence all the time and he looked fit and strong and I thought that we need to get somebody on the right hand side of midfield because they were putting a lot of crosses in and Tom (Taiwo) was set to go on and it’s disappointing when that happens but we will address it internally and move on, but I must stress that Ross is a key player for us and one that we like.

“I didn’t like what he did there and there will be action taken. I very rarely substitute a substitute and I don’t like doing it, but he looked knackered while James Collins seemed to find reservoirs of energy from somewhere. We think he is a good player and we will talk about it on Monday.”

Afterwards, supporters reacted angrily on Fans’ forum Hibs-Net, with the vast majority backing the manager’s handling of the situation.

Caldwell later tweeted: “So many people think they know everything, would shock some to know the truth but all entitled to an opinion even if it’s wrong.”

The tweet was believed to relate to criticism he received from Hibs’ fans after the game who questioned his attitude as he was leaving the ground.

Hibs overcame their Highland hoodoo to book their place in the last 16 of the Scottish Cup today, thanks to a Danny Handling first half goal, despite having to play the last 20 minutes with 10 men after after Paul Cairney picked up an undeserved second yellow card for simulation.

Despite the narrow score line however, Hibs dominated throughout and deserved their ninth victory in the last eleven Scottish Cup ties.

Terry Butcher made one change to the side that drew with St Mirren last week with James Collins replacing the injured Paul Heffernan. Michael Nelson was on the bench after his recovery from a broken cheekbone.

Derek Adams kept faith with the same side that drew 2-2 with Hearts, with Richard Brittain still available with his ban yet to begin.

The win was Hibs’ first ever competitive victory over the team from Dingwall and also the manager’s first triumph in the town.

Over 1,000 Hibs’ supporters packed into the away end and cheered throughout the game showing a new found enthusiasm for the ream, following the apathy toward the previous manager.

Ryan McGivern sent an early looping cross into the box which was expertly controlled by James Collins, who found Cairney but his cross was blocked for a corner.

Hibs were organised at the back but it was the Staggies who had in the net through former Hearts striker Gary Glen but his effort was disallowed because of an earlier infringement.

Hibs took the lead on the half hour mark when Craig did well to win the ball just outside the box before sliding an inch perfect pass to Handling, who finished off with a clinical side-foot finish for his first goal of the season.

After the break former Hibs keeper Mark Brown did well to save a Scott Robertson effort then County fought back with Stuart Kettlewell’s low shot deflected away for a corner.

Kevin Luckassen then sent a powerful header goal wards but thankfully for the Hibs’ defenders, the ball cannoned off the post before being cleared away.

Hibs then should have had a penalty when Cairney weaved his way past three defenders before being brought down by Brown but unbelievably the referee issued a second yellow card to the former Partick Thistle player for simulation, a decision that caused fury amongst the travelling supporters behind the goal.

Collins then found Stevenson on the edge of the box, but his well struck shot deflected off Boyd and flew inches over the top of the goal.

There was controversy in the dying minute when Butcher substituted Ross Caldwell who had only been on the pitch for ten minutes and the pair had words before the youngster walked straight down the tunnel.

After the game a delighted Terry Butcher said: “It wasn’t the best of football matches – it was a gritty cup tie, but I’m delighted with the win. The players showed a level of fitness today and they showed some skill as well, when they get the ball down and pass it. We’ve seen different qualities in the side today we didn’t know were there. They keep on surprising us. Ross County had one chance when Luckassen hit the post, while Ben Williams hasn’t got a save to make. For the second week running he’s been kept inactive, and we’ve kept a clean sheet.”

The draw for the fifth round of the competition is scheduled to take place on Monday afternoon at 2pm.

Hibernian: Ben Williams, Alan Maybury, Jordon Forster, Paul Hanlon, Ryan McGivern, Paul Cairney, Scott Robertson (Jones), Liam Craig (captain), Lewis Stevenson, Danny Handling (Caldwell, Taiwo), James Collins.

Subs: Sean Murdoch, Rowan Vine, Owain Tudur Jones, Tom Taiwo, Abdellah Zoubir, Ross Caldwell

Referee Craig Thompson

2,213

St Mary’s (Leith) RC Primary School is holding its Christmas Fair on Friday 6 December 2013 from 9am – 1pm.

Stalls will include good quality books, DVDs, toys, bric-a-brac, tombola prizes and home-baking.

The Christmas Raffle has some fantastic prizes including stadium tours by Celtic and Rangers Football Clubs; pantomime and theatre tickets; family photo shoot; jewellery vouchers, hair styling vouchers, restaurant vouchers, wine and chocolates.  Raffle tickets can be bought on the day.

Hot drinks, mince pies, soup and sandwiches will also be available throughout the morning.

Entry by donation.

Escape from December one night in Auld Reekie but get yourself into the holiday spirit in the company of some entirely individual, accomplished artists as they entertain and enchant you with the most diverse instrument there is – the human voice. What better way to warm up than being transported and captivated by the sweeping sounds of eight diverse singers?

On Wednesday 11 December 2013 a group of musicians will get together to put on an eclectic, one-off performance exploring the expansive capabilities of the instrument at the Voodoo Rooms.

The group made up a class of third year Napier music students have organised the event themselves in an attempt to revamp their technical singing exam and make a night of it! Now you too can get something out of it, and hey let’s face it, the beer’s better than in the exam room!

Doors open at 7.30 and are open to all, general/student admission £4/£3.

See you there to join in the festive fun!

Submitted by Eva Cameron Coutts

Brunch today – World Aids Day – TED talks – Car Boot Sale – Restaurant wins award

Our brunch suggestion for you today is Gorgie City Farm.

“For those with some time to relax, we have a comfy sofa, free wi-fi, newspapers and local information leaflets!

Our breakfast menu includes hot rolls or a full Scottish breakfast and our delicious porridge with a choice of toppings.”

More information here. Cafe open from 9:30am.

***

Positive Help Edinburgh AIDS Memorial clean-up

• When:1 December 2013
• Where: Edinburgh AIDS Memorial, Water of Leith, Edinburgh
• What: As a mark of respect to those who have been lost to this disease, and to raise awareness of the stigma still affecting those living with HIV, Positive Help will be conducting a clean-up of the Edinburgh AIDS Memorial along the Water of Leith. This event is open to all to ensure we have enough equipment for everyone, please call Matt on 0131 225 47 66 to confirm your attendance.

Waverley Care World AIDS Day community gathering – Edinburgh city

• When: 1 December 2013, 4pm
• Where: St John’s Church, Princes Street, Edinburgh
• What: Featuring music, speakers and a time to remember those who have died of AIDS. Free Entry.

ImpAcTAIDS Sponsored Swim

• When: 1 December 2013, 12.30pm
• Where: Portobello Beach (near Portobello Swim Centre), Edinburgh
• What: A sponsored swim on World AIDS Day, raising funds for ImpAcTAIDS. Contact the group for details, to volunteer or to take part.

***

Can’t quite get up the enthusiasm to start Christmas shopping? The desire to procrastinate is a very normal human trait. The nice people at TED have a whole range of talks that you can watch rather than get worked up about who should get what on your Christmas list…

Watch them all here…then get back to the list making!

***

The weekly car boot sale is on this morning at Omni car park on Leith Street from 9 till 1.

More details here.

***

After a frustrating delay, Hearts secured the backing of their creditors and shareholders on Friday for a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) which is the first step for the supporter group Foundation of Hearts to take control of one of Scotland’s most successful football clubs. The CVA to take Hearts out of administration has been approved on condition of the purchase of the club’s majority shareholding. The Foundation of Hearts has offered £2.5m but they are unable to acquire UBIG’s majority shareholding until the early months of next year.

UBIG own 50 per cent of the club but are themselves in the midst of insolvency action and have yet to appoint their own creditors’ committee to rule on whether to hand over their shares to the Freedom of Hearts. And this is something that will not happen until possibly February or even March 2014. Nevertheless, today is seen as a significant step in securing Hearts future and Ian Murray MP, spokesman for the Foundation of Hearts spoke of his delight at the progress made and his gratitude to those Hearts supporters who have pledged financial support to the club.

“We are pleased at the outcome of today’s meetings. It is yet another step towards the road to getting the club out of Administration and back to financial health.

The process of a CVA is extremely difficult and today is merely the beginning of the next part of the process. We are full of respect and admiration for the creditors who have been involved in this process.

Today I’d like to thank our supporters – without them it would not have been possible to get this far.

While the journey is not over yet and there is much work to be done, we can move forward with a degree of optimism that Heart of Midlothian can have a future we can be very proud of.

It is because of you, our supporters that we have achieved this significant step, but bigger challenges lie ahead and there is much to do. We must remain united with purpose.

To that end, we once again call upon supporters who have not yet signed up to make a monthly contribution to the Foundation of Hearts to do so at www.foundationofhearts.org.

From the bottom of my heart I say – from all at the Foundation of Hearts and the Club – thank you.”

Administrator Bryan Jackson issued a note of caution. “It’s a good news but the uncertainty about when the UBIG shareholding will be resolved means Hearts may have to ask the fans for more donations. There’s nowhere else for us to go if we run into difficulties,” he said.

“The cash flow is fluent, it can change. We’ve had a couple of plusses because of the Cup games against Hibernian and Celtic. We do have funds, on the face of it, to get to the end of February into March. That’s the timescale we initially worked to and we have to see what happens after that”

Hearts face Celtic in the William Hill Scottish Cup at Tynecastle on Sunday, kick-off 3.00pm.

Edinburgh score three tries in the last eight minutes to take a bonus point win.

Connacht were the visitors to Murrayfield on a chilly Friday night in the latest round of the final RaboDirect PRO12 season. With both teams lying at the bottom end of the table, a win either way would boost their chances of a top six finish.

Getting an early break, Connacht were deep in the Edinburgh half right from the start, but the hosts managed to clear the ball upfield. The return kick from Dan Parks caught several Connacht players offside, so giving Greg Laidlaw the first chance of points in the match. Scoring the first of many kicks on the night, Laidlaw gave the home side an early 3-0 lead. A couple of minutes later it was the visitors turn to score when Dan Parks dropped a goal from outside the Edinburgh 22. Eleven minutes on the clock, 3-3. And it was the visitors who took the lead on the 15 minute mark when Robbie Henshaw followed up on a fine passing move, initiated by a kick from Parks, and went over for the opening try of the night. Parks scored the conversion and it was 8-3 to the Irish side.

th a penalty for the visitors. And it was looking as if that would be the half time score when Edinburgh were awarded a penalty in the last minute. Laidlaw confirmed with the referee that they would be able to take the lineout, then went for the line. The ball went in on the 40 minute mark and Edinburgh pressed hard at the Connacht try line, but were held out as the play switched back and forth within the five-metre area. Collecting the ball just to the left of the posts, Harry Leonard passed the ball out to Ben Atiga, who instantly passed it back inside to the rapidly approaching Dougie Fife. With a lot of momentum on his side, Fife crashed through two defenders to reach out and ground the ball in the 42^nd minute for Edinburgh’s first try (pictured). Laidlaw then bisected the posts and the teams went off for the break with Edinburgh 16-10 ahead.

Connacht almost pulled a try back within minutes of the restart when Henshaw ran round the outside of the home defence, with a clear run to the line, only to be pulled down inside the 22 by a flying Dougie Fife. Edinburgh followed this up with a ‘nearly’ of their own when, again, Rennie was stopped short of the line, although this time by nearly half a metre.

By the half way point, Laidlaw had scored another two penalties and Parks had, unbelievably, hit the post again to give the Edinburgh men a 22-10 lead. Connacht had also had a nearly try of their own, but a dropped ball from a cross-kick was touched down by Edinburgh. Then that final eight minutes loomed. First up was Cornell du Preez with his try in the right hand corner. Fife was instrumental in getting the ball to the South African, who charged over for his second try in so many weeks. Laidlaw scored his sixth kick of the match and Edinburgh were 29-10 to the good. Five minutes later, Connacht turned over ruck ball and passed the ball into the centre. Next ball was out to Sam Beard to give the sub a chance to clear. But, the No. 22 was left clutching fresh air as Nick De Luca came out of nowhere to intercept and fall over the line for the third Edinburgh try. Again Laidlaw saw the kick over and it was suddenly 36-10. And they thought it was all over… Well, it wasn’t. Greg Tonks ran the restart kick back upfield and got another attack on the go. De Luca ended up with the ball in the 22 and drawing in the last man, passed the ball to the following Willem Nel, who did his best ‘winger’ impression and outran everyone to dive over for the bonus point try. Laidlaw finished off the match with another successful kick and the Edinburgh crowd went home happy, with the 43-10 win well and truly in the bag.

So, it was only Connacht, was it not..? No, not really as the men from Ireland are not the ‘easy game’ anymore, having given a couple of big teams, including Clermont Auvergne, a fright over the last couple of seasons in the Heineken Cup. They were just blown away by an impressive second half from the hosts which, hopefully, they can keep going.
Hopefully……

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

Hibs’ youngster Danny Handling was a surprise starter last weekend against St Mirren, yet he emerged as man of the match and won praise from his new manager for his efforts. The under 21 internationalist is hoping to retain his place for today’s cup tie against Ross County in Dingwall, a ground that Hibs have never won at.

Speaking at the club’s Training Centre, Handling said: “Terry Butcher has come in and given me an opportunity to show what I can do. Obviously he’s liked what he’s seen so long may that continue.

‘It’s been enjoyable. We only trained once on the Thursday. That was the first time the gaffer had seen me – and I think I made an impression. I felt as if I did quite well. The boss was happy enough to put me in the team against St Mirren and I think he was happy enough. So I’m enjoying my football.  I didn’t score a hat-trick in that training session. I just think the manager likes people who work hard and put the effort in – honest players. I try to be the best I can be. If that’s what the gaffer likes it’s good enough for me.”

“The manager definitely wants the ball forward quicker, he’s more direct. It has to go forward as fast as we can. That’s obviously good for strikers but there is also a lot of pressure and responsibility because you have to keep possession and wait for players to get in support. I’m enjoying it and it’s going well enough so let’s hope it continues.

Hibs players travelled to the Highlands last night to prepare for the game against hoodoo team Ross County whom they have never beaten in a competitive game. The teams met at Easter Road in the Scottish Cup quarter final when John Hughes was in charge, and with Hibs 2-1up, Derek Riordan had a goal chalked off for offside which TV replays showed was a wrong decision, before the Staggies equalised.  County then won the replay and beat Celtic in the semi-finals before losing to Dundee United in the final.

Handling is unable to give a reason for the hoodoo. He continued: “I don’t know why Hibs’ record against Ross County is so poor. We’ve been unlucky but we’re not focusing on that but we’re going there trying to win, we won’t be mucking about. We’ll be positive from the start.

“There is a bit of pressure because we’ve been to the last two finals, obviously without winning – but we want to reach that stage again. Once you get there it’s unbelievable. It’s hugely different to your ordinary games. It’s a massive pitch, a huge stadium as well as a grand occasion and a great experience.

“You get older fans coming up and begging Hibs to win the Scottish Cup as soon as possible. You just have to take it on the chin, listen to them and hopefully please them.

Michael Nelson and Jason Cummings who scored a hat trick for the Under 20s in midweek are added to the squad.

The Lothian Amphibian and Reptile Group (LARG), which is a 15 year-old volunteer conservation organization in Edinburgh, coordinated by the secretary Gary Hovell and other members, have set up the Lothian Toad Watch group. This group helps toads cross roads after their hibernation period each year in the early spring, and reach their breeding ponds safely.

The migration period takes place on warm wet evenings between late February and April, and it is at this time of the year that all the volunteers come together and help the toads. Volunteers are expected to wear high-visibility jackets for their own safety, as well as sporting torches and buckets. During this time the group meets up for 2 hours each night for a maximum of 2 weeks and this with utter dedication.

Gary Hovell said: -“Although the organisation has grown in terms of volunteers over the past few years, there are still many locations in Edinburgh and the Lothian’s which are not covered every year and therefore more volunteers are needed. According to the figures over the past 4 years it is shown that if a large number of toads are saved one year, then the following year there is an increase in population of toads in that location by around 30%”. A grand total of 3000 toads were rescued this April by 15 volunteers and the group is avidly looking for more volunteers to help out with the coming toad watch in 2014.

The amount of Toads saved is very important as toads can live between 10-12 years in the wild and don’t start breeding until their 4th spring, so without this help many local populations of toad species would soon be gone. A network of roads through forests and marshy areas cuts of many of the toads breeding ponds, as during their migration period thousands of them cross the roads at the same time.
Patrolling the breeding ponds and marsh, damp woodlands helps monitor the locations and populations of the toads around that particular area.
These toad patrols also enable us to find out which areas are most affected by the traffic, hence resulting in the highest toad mortality. The fact that toads will return to the same breeding ponds for many generations, helps with keep track with the affected areas and therefore volunteers can target these areas during the migration period.

The group launched its Facebook campaign “Lothian Toad Watch” on the 12th of February this year and has, after a successful start in these months, been on the move to recruiting more volunteers for the “toad watch” in 2014. If you’re interested in helping out please contact the team at LARG at lothianarg@outlook.com
Contact links:

And how best to celebrate that milestone? Well have a concert of course!

USHER HALL PRESENTS 100^TH BIRTHDAY CONCERT A Centenary Celebration : Thursday 6 March 2014

For one night only Edinburgh’s Usher Hall will celebrate 100 glorious years of music and entertainment by presenting a selection of music from the three original opening concerts which took place a century ago.

The programme features the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Edinburgh Royal Choral Union and the magnificent Usher Hall organ that has played a big part in the Hall’s heritage since it was installed in 1913.

Directing this special concert will be two eminent conductors, who know the Usher Hall very well, RSNO Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Søndergård, and conductor Michael Bawtree.  The programme features some much-loved classics from the time that are still very much part of today’s popular repertoire; music from Wagner, Rachmaninov, Mendelssohn, MacCunn, Bach, Parry and Beethoven’s famous Fifth Symphony.  Edinburgh’s popular City Organist, John Kitchen, will also perform.

Originally built with a separate entrance for the rich and with the Temperance movement ensuring no alcohol was served, there was no hint at that time of the social turmoil that was to take place over the coming century.  Despite many new styles of music evolving during that time, the music of the original concert maintains its appeal and will be seen to have transcended the years.

Over the course of the last hundred years the Usher Hall has played host to performers, musicians and conductors a wide variety of music by great artists, and they have also observed a centenary of enormous social change.

Some of the world’s greatest artists have graced the Usher Hall’s stage: Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Cash, Oscar Peterson, The Rolling Stones, Adele and Michael Bublé to name a few.

Richard Lewis, the council’s Convener of Culture and Sport said: “The Usher Hall’s centenary year begins with a wonderful concert of memories. The venue was a marvellous gift from Andrew Usher for the people of Edinburgh and for 100 years it has been a great source of enjoyment and many thousands have entered its doors.  Join us, on what promises to be, a memorable and uplifting occasion.”

RSNO Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Søndergård said: “Since coming to Scotland my experiences of the Usher Hall have been full of excitement, joy and thrilling music-making. It is a wonderful venue with a venerable history and I am honoured to play a part in its centenary celebrations. Both myself and the musicians of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra wish our Edinburgh home another successful 100 years!”

The concert takes place on Thursday 6 March at 7.30pm and tickets are on sale now from www.usherhall.co.uk or 0131 228 1155.

In 1896, Andrew Usher made his historic gift of £100,000 to The City of Edinburgh to found a concert hall.  The building officially opened on 6 March 1914.

Edinburgh Royal Choral Union performed at the original concert in 1914.

The Usher Hall is owned and run by The City of Edinburgh Council and the venue hosts around 200 events each year.  25% of concerts are programmed by the venue.

The Usher Hall is Edinburgh’s key venue for visiting national and international orchestras and has been a core venue for the Edinburgh International Festival since 1947.

It is Edinburgh’s home to The Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

The organ dates back to 1913 and was built by Norman & Beard at a cost of £4000 and is still used in concerts today.

The venue embraces the widest range of music and events, including rock, pop, jazz, world, comedy, school concerts, conferences, award ceremonies and recording sessions.

Forthcoming concerts at the Hall include; Madeleine Peyroux, Eddi Reader, Texas, The Sixteen, James Arthur, Tom Odell, Academy of St Martin in the Fields and Gareth Malone : The Live Tour

On 17 January 2014, Steps to Inclusion are holding a CPD/training workshop in central Edinburgh – Supporting Pupils with Autism Spectrum Conditions. The workshop is aimed at school, nursery and playgroup staff as well as students whose future will involve working with children.

Steps to Inclusion is a not-for-profit social enterprise who raise awareness of Autism Spectrum Conditions and Dyslexia via pupil workshops in both primary and secondary schools, staff training in schools, nurseries and playgroups and through the development of educational resources.

Plans are underway to develop workshops in the workplace for businesses as well as a holiday club for children with additional support needs and a club for their siblings.

Kirsten Duncan and Caroline Bingham are the founders of Steps to Inclusion. Both are experienced teachers, who have worked in a wide-range of settings including support for learning, outreach, special and mainstream education. In addition to teaching, they are also parents of children with additional support needs and so are fortunate in having a more holistic viewpoint to form a basis for their workshops and training resources.

They have set up links with the main Autism and Dyslexia charities in Scotland and have been involved in interviewing young Autistic and Dyslexic adults to gain firsthand accounts of their school lives. This has helped inform their workshops and training even further.

If you would like to book on, or find out more about, the CPD/training workshop Supporting Pupils with Autism Spectrum Conditions in Edinburgh on 17th January, you can do so via the following link:

http://stepstoinclusion.eventbrite.com/

More information regarding the course and about Steps to Inclusion, in general, can be found on their website:

http://www.stepstoinclusion.com

Submitted by Caroline Bingham