The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service attended a report of smoke coming from the basement of the Bar Napoli in the city centre yesterday, and one of our readers was on hand to photograph the incident.

Thankfully the cause of the smoke was quickly identified and no-one was injured.

A spokesperson for the service told the Edinburgh Reporter: We received a call at 11.51am to the Bar Napoli in Hanover Street regarding smoke in the basement.

“Crews from Macdonald Road, Tollcross and Marionville attended and used a Thermal imaging camera to detect the source of the smoke which was a faulty light in the ladies toilet.

“An electrician was then called out.”

Two women have been arrested and charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act after police in Edinburgh recovered Class A drugs from an address in the west of the city.

Officers carried out a search of a property in Hailesland Gardens on Tuesday morning and seized £2,100 worth of heroin.

The pair aged 32 and 37 are due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Wednesday 4th December).

Detective Inspector Stuart Harkness said: “Drugs can have a devastating impact on our communities and as a result of police enquiries, we were able to recover this heroin before it could be distributed on our streets.

“We have listened to our communities and will continue to target serious organised crime in Edinburgh.

“The public play a vital role in helping us take drugs off our streets by coming forward and providing us with information.

“I would urge anyone wishing to report drug crime, or associated offences in their local area to contact us immediately.”

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

Police officers investigating a series of fires in the Portobello area have arrested and charged a 16 year old male.

The fires occurred between Sunday 1 December and Monday 2 December in Bath Street, Kings Place and Ramsay Place,

A number of flats were evacuated although no-one was injured.

He is scheduled to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court tomorrow (Thursday).

Hibs boss Terry Butcher has confirmed that the touchline altercation with has been ‘put to bed’ after the youngster apologised for his behaviour at the end of the game against Ross County on Saturday. With seconds remaining, Butcher substituted Caldwell who had only been on the pitch for 13 minutes, much to the annoyance of the striker who refused to listen to his explanation.

Speaking at the club’s training centre, Butcher said: “I spoke to Ross, we had a good chat today, and he apologised and knew he had done wrong and we’re moving forward together. He is a good kid and he has a good future at Hibernian. I read how I was going to read him the riot act and I was going to do this and that. It was a simple case of having a chat and putting it to bed. I have two sofas in my office and I sat on one couch and he sat on the other and we had a good chat. If anything, that has brought us even closer together.

“Sometimes you cannot get your second wind on a pitch and there are times when you have to make decisions like that and it is not a nice decision to make. You do not like to substitute the sub and it is history now and we will learn from it. Ross accepted my explanation as he is a clever boy and he is just so desperate and keen to play for Hibs.”

Hibs will take on Raith Rovers in the next round of the competition, and Butcher insisted that the Championship team will be no pushovers, having played against them in a pre-season friendly with Inverness. He continued: “We will be a different team when we play them; it’ll be after the transfer window so we’ll see how many we get in. I don’t know if we will get any, but we will be different because we will have had a lot of games under our belts. With the progress we’ve been making we’d hope to be a better team all round.

“We played them at Inverness in pre-season and they murdered us for an hour in a 2-2 draw. It’s another one of my clubs. Jimmy Nicholl got me back in and I loved the club, it’s great.”

Butcher also revealed that former captain James McPake will undergo surgery on his long standing back injury, and praised the big defenders attitude. He said: “He needs this operation. He is 29 now and has a young baby and is looking to get his career back on track. He has had quite a few injections this season and it has come back to the scenario where an operation is hopefully going to sort things out and he can get back to action next year and we are looking forward to that very much.

“He has been a very good captain for Hibernian Football Club. Now he is not the captain and Liam Craig is, he has helped Liam out enormously with tasks and what to do. He has been fantastic.”

Christmas light switch on in Corstorphine tonight – Calling all blood donors – Gone with the Wind – Tonight at Drummond CHS – Hot Dub Time Machine

Corstorphine Christmas Tree Switch On at 6.30pm.
“Come and join us on the village green beside Corstorphine Old Parish Church, Kirk Loan to welcome in the festive season with the lighting of the Corstorphine community Christmas tree and a visit from a special guest on his sleigh.”

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Today you can give blood at Northfield Community Centre,  Northfield Road, EH8 7PP

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The Cameo is screening Gone with the Wind on 9 December 2013.  How fabulous to see this iconic movie on the big screen!

More details and get your tickets here.

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The Winter Warmer Concert will take place on Wednesday 4th December at 5.45pm, to start at 6pm. Tickets are on sale from the school office

— Drummond CHS (@Drummond_CHS) November 21, 2013

 

 

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Tonight at Summerhall there is the first of a series of Hot Dub Time Machine, all part of Edinburgh’s Christmas festivities.  Booking details here on Edinburgh’s Christmas website but it seems that most Saturday events may already have been sold out – get on to the website or the Facebook page to find out more!

“All aboard Hot Dub Time Machine at Summerhall! DJ Tom Loud presents the
world’s first time-travelling dance party! Travel back in time to 1954,
then boogie back to 2013, with a song for each year powered by YOUR
dancing.

An international festival hit, Hot Dub Time Machine returns to Edinburgh
after a huge sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.”

Hibs’ new coach/scout Steve Marsella, the man credited for discovering many of the Inverness Caledonian Thistle players who took the Highland club to the top of the league earlier this season, insists that he has not been given any specific instructions to identify new targets for the January transfer window, as Terry Butcher continues to asses his current squad.

Having said that, the Englishman continues to take in lower league matches in England, driving over 1000 miles per week, so if and when the manager decides that he wants to strengthen a certain position, he will have someone in mind,

Marsella has been a coach for over 20 years with Huddersfield Town, Barnsley, Notts County and Crewe Alexandra as well as working with the SFA and in Iceland. He first worked with Terry Butcher at Brentford before the pair linked up again together – alongside assistant boss Maurice Malpas – at Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2009.

Marsella told the club website: “To be honest, the games you watch down south would be Conference, Conference North, Conference South, League Two, League One and I would see a lot of under 21 games and sometimes you would get bounce games which are played behind closed doors. I’ve not really been looking at the Premier League because of the money the boys are on.

“I’ve travelled between 50-60 thousand miles a year at Inverness but at least now I’ll be missing out the A9 because that could be daunting at this time of year. From here you can get down to the central belt in England in four hours no problem.

“The first thing I look at in a player is ‘Can Hibs afford him?’ There’s no point in looking at players we can’t afford although sometimes you do look at players outwith your price range to see of you can get him on loan.

“At the moment we are not really looking at anyone because everyone is still playing here. The manager’s not told me that he wants this position or that position so I’m just looking at players.

Marsella certainly has an eye for talent and his list of ‘discoveries’ is impressive as he modestly confirmed: “At Crewe we brought John Ruddy in whose doing really well right now at Norwich and Gylfi Sigurdsson who is doing really well at Tottenham.

“At Inverness, Gary Warren came in from Newport County and Marley Watkins from Hereford and both have done a great job up there.

“Billy McKay was League 2 with Northampton and we all know about him, whilst Dean Brill has been absolutely outstanding. He was third choice at Luton Town and now he’s fighting for the first team spot. “I could go on and on, Aaron Doran came from Blackburn Rovers reserves and he’s done really well as well.

“Once they sign the papers, Maurice and Terry make them players, but they have to have something in the first place.

“When you watch the Conference you see boys that are hungry and you think of they come to Inverness they could make it and we’ve been lucky. Sometimes you bring in players that no-one has heard of and they gel.”

Hibs’ defender James McPake will undergo surgery on a recurring back injury.

The former Livingston and Coventry player last played for Hibs in Pat Fenlon’s final game in charge against Hearts in the League Cup, and was sent off near the end.

He was due to start Terry Butcher’s debut match against St Mirren but was forced to withdraw with a back problem.

Butcher told the club website: “James trained two weeks ago and his back flared up again. He was going to have an operation at the end of last season but it was felt perhaps rest over the summer would be good. It hasn’t been the case.”

“He has had quite a few injections this season and it has come back to the scenario where an operation is hopefully going to sort things out and he can get back to action next year.”

“He has been a very good captain for Hibernian Football Club. Now he is not the captain and Liam Craig is, he has helped Liam out enormously with tasks and what to do. He has been fantastic.”

Meanwhile, Kevin Thomson is expected to return to training on Thursday after missing the Scottish Cup win at Ross County while fellow midfielder Scott Robertson should be fit for Saturday’s Scottish Premiership meeting with Partick Thistle after coming off with a tight hamstring in Dingwall.

Long term injury victim Tim Clancy continued his comeback for the under 20s in the 7-1 win over Dunfermline at the Energy Assets Arena in Livingston.

At the High Court in Glasgow today (Tuesday) 35-year-old James Doran and 49-year-old David Neil were both sentenced to five years and three months in prison after Police Scotland recovered cocaine and amphetamine from an address in Linlithgow last year.

Officers carried out a search of the property in Acredales on the 12th December 2012 and recovered high purity cocaine and amphetamine, which had the potential to realise eight and a half kilos of amphetamine and over three kilos of cocaine from inside.

Equipment used for the cutting of drugs was also found within and taken as part of the police investigation.

The total value for the drugs recovered in around £220,000.

Both men were identified as part of an operation to target serious and organised crime within West Lothian and bring those involved in drug crime to justice.

The pair previously pled guilty to drug offences at the High Court in Edinburgh

Detective Superintendent David Gordon from the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit said: “The high purity of the substances seized from the property in Linlithgow indicate that both Doran and Neil were heavily involved in drug supply within the region.

“Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe and ensuring drug dealers and organised criminals have no place to hide.

“The search we carried out came as a result of significant investigations and vital intelligence received from the local community.

“Their sentences are testament to the joint commitment from police and the Crown Office Procurator Fiscal Service in removing serious and organised criminals from our streets and safeguarding our communities from harm.

“The success of our operations are dependent on the support of the public and I would ask that anyone with information relating to ongoing criminal activity in their area contacts Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

 

7 Spey Terrace

Edinburgh

EH7 4PX

Telephone: 0131-550 0895

E-mail: JohnEDouglas@gmail.com

3 December 2013

Dear Sir/Madam,

HAYMARKET MISERY

It seems that scaremongering by the pedal cycling minority is now to further inconvenience Edinburghers and in particular those who are mobility challenged.

The closure of the taxi rank at Haymarket will impact those who have difficulty in walking to “nearby” cab ranks.

But if it saves one cyclist…

John Eoin Douglas

As retailers gear up for the busiest shopping weekend of the year, Alison Johnstone, Scottish Green MSP for Lothian, is encouraging people to do what they can to support local firms.

Alison, a member of Holyrood’s economy committee, is backing the Small Business Saturday campaign which is urging the public to shop local on 7 December.

Alison said: “High streets and small businesses across the Lothians are under sustained pressure from the big chains, so it’s important we do what we can to level the playing field. As people gear up for Christmas I’d urge them to consider how their spending decisions affect local firms and their local communities.

“And for those going online I’d encourage seeking out local alternatives. Longer-term I will continue to campaign for greater support for small and micro businesses in Lothian region, both in terms of revitalising our local high streets and improving access to public procurement.”

Police Scotland is appealing for witnesses following a number of deliberate fires within stairwells in Portobello.

Between Sunday 1st December and Monday 2nd December, six incidents were reported to police.

Local officers and the fire service responded to four fires at flat blocks in Bath Street, which all occurred between 4.55pm and 6.50pm on Sunday.

Around 40 minutes later a similar report was made at an address in Kings Place resulting in emergency service attendance.

The following day a further fire was reported within a common stair in Ramsay Place at around 3pm.

On each occasion, the flats had to be evacuated and some were treated for smoke inhalation. However, no one was injured.

Police are now conducting high-visibility patrols throughout Portobello and are urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

Inspector Roddy Hardy said: “Miraculously no residents in any of the addresses affected suffered any injury. However, the consequences could have been far more serious if the fires had prevented people from escaping, or if they had spread further.

“Anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in or around these streets on Sunday or Monday is asked to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone who can help us identify those responsible is also asked to get in touch.”

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

Police Scotland have now confirmed the identity of a man who died following a road collision on the City Bypass as Brian Bulloch from Edinburgh.

The 47-year-old was walking on the eastbound carriageway when he was involved in a collision with a Vauxhall Insignia at the Straiton Junction on Thursday 28th November.

Mr Bulloch sustained serious injuries and passed away while en route to hospital.

Enquiries into the full circumstances surrounding this incident are ongoing and anyone with information that can assist police with their investigation is asked to come forward immediately.

Scotland’s Paul di Resta might be forced to look elsewhere in order to continue with his motorsport career, as the F1 driver market begins to heat up.

Pastor Maldonado, along with his significant financial backing from Venezuelan oil-company PDVSA, has signed for Lotus, meaning that it is looking increasingly likely that Nico Hülkenberg will make the switch from Sauber to Force India. Hülkenberg, who beat di Resta by 3 points in the World Drivers’ Championship this season, was widely-tipped to make the move to Lotus. However because of the financial difficulties that the Enstone team face, they have opted to sign Maldonado instead, which leaves Hülkenberg free to rejoin his old team Force India.

If this move goes ahead, the second seat alongside the German will be sought after not only by di Resta, but also his 2013 team mate Adrian Sutil and Sergio Perez, who was dropped by McLaren. Di Resta faces a tough challenge, despite outscoring Sutil and being pipped by one point from Perez in the final race of the season. The 27-year-old Scot doesn’t bring a significant sponsorship deal to the table, unlike Perez with Telmex or Sutil with Medion and Capri Sun. In a sport where even the big teams need big money, more and more of the midfield outfits are opting for so-called ‘pay drivers,’ even when there might be a more talented driver available.

If a future in F1 is no longer an option, then di Resta may look at other forms of motorsport to continue his career. His career in DTM (German touring cars) saw him win the 2010 championship, and a return to the series might give the Bathgate-born driver a chance to reinvigorate his career with a view to returning to F1 in the future. IndyCar is also an option, and there have been many rumours surrounding the possibility of di Resta taking the vacant seat at Gnassi Racing after the retirement of his cousin Dario Franchitti.

With Force India owner Vijay Mallya set to wait until the Christmas party to confirm his drivers for the 2014 season, di Resta’s future could be confirmed in the next few weeks. It may be time for the Scot to bid goodbye to F1, at least for the time being, but if he leaves, another series will have picked up a talented and capable driver.

Cristina is  a fully qualified reflexologist who works at Muirhouse Millennium Community Centre.

She is making our readers a Special Christmas Offer – £25 for a 20 minute Neck Back & Shoulder, 20 minute Indian Head Massage or a Reflexology session.

Book Your Christmas voucher today- Valid until end Feb 2014
Cristina’s Reflexology Room @ Muirhouse Millennium (Community Centre)

Phone Cristina on 07564 717023

Submitted by jJim mcGinty

Three men have been arrested and charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act after police in Edinburgh recovered Class A and B drugs from an address in the west of the city.

Officers carried out a search of a property in Broomhouse Grove on Friday evening and seized £17,500 worth of cocaine along with over £700 of diamorphine and a small quantity of cannabis.

Two of the men, aged 27, and 22 appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday and were remanded in custody, while a 48-year-old appeared in court and was released on bail.

Detective Inspector Stuart Harkness said: “Police Scotland continues to target serious organised crime in Edinburgh and officers have again seized harmful drugs before they could impact upon our communities.

“The public play a vital role in helping us take drugs off our streets by coming forward and providing us with information.

“I would urge anyone wishing to report drug crime, or associated offences in their local area to contact us immediately.”

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

Eileen Murray from Linlithgow, West Lothian, has been crowned a winner in Central Scotland Forest Trust’s (CSFT) Greatest Greenspace Competition 2013.

The retired nursing sister battled it out with her rakes and spades to win the Green Garden category of the eco-contest.  As well as achieving the accolade, Eileen won £100 gardening vouchers to help maintain the green space all year round.

The competition provided aspiring horticulturists across the Central Scotland Forest area with the opportunity to enhance their green credentials and increase the biodiversity of the local area by planting wildflowers in their gardens or allotments.

Eileen has been working on the public gardens at Wateryett in Linlithgow for almost ten years to help create a wonderful greenspace resource and gardening site for local residents.

As well as planting perennial wild flower seeds with local Beavers and Cubs groups to create a diverse array of flowers and provide a wildlife haven, Eileen has been involved in the creation of land art and willow structures to make the garden an attractive focal point for the local community to enjoy.

Eileen Murray said: “I’m thrilled to have been selected as the winner in the Green Garden category of Central Scotland Forest Trust’s competition.  I have been working on the garden for over nine years and it’s nice to be recognised for something that I enjoy and feel passionate about.

“I’ve received fantastic support from West Lothian Council and the local community, and with their help, I plan to continue to develop the garden for the benefit of the environment.”

Simon Rennie, Chief Executive at CSFT, said:  “We’d like to congratulate Eileen Murray for her fantastic entry to our Greatest Greenspace Competition which aimed to engage locals in protecting the environment.

“We received a number of impressive entries to the contest and it is pleasing to see so many people keen to take part and better their local environment.  Eileen Murray’s passion and enthusiasm for gardening and creating a community space is fantastic.”

The other winner in the Greatest Greenspace Competition is Falkirk based Avonbridge Primary School which won the Educational Environment category.

Planning meeting to be webcast tomorrow – Community Workshops with The Fruitmarket Gallery –  After Independence – Speakeasy – Newhailes goes Christmassy

The Development Management Committee will meet in the City Chambers tomorrow and this will be the first time that the proceedings at this committee have been webcast. You can join in here. The Development Management committee has a role in the planning process to approve or refuse certain decisions. Recommendations may be made by the council officials but councillors can refer a particular application to a hearing as they did in the case of the recent application to convert a church in Rose Street to a mega pub. The papers for the last meeting of this committee are here.

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Free workshops for community groups at the Fruitmarket Gallery.

An idea for your group to be entertained by art.

Two-hour sessions, in your setting and the Gallery. Max 12 places.
Take part in artist-led workshops in your community setting and on a visit to The Fruitmarket Gallery. Based around our latest exhibition, two-hour sessions include making, looking at and talking about art. Visits to your setting introduce themes and activities and help inform the content of the Gallery workshop. Sessions are fun and informal and planned to meet the needs of your group.

Workshops are available for community groups of all ages from Edinburgh and the Lothians. Participants don’t need any prior experience.

For booking enquiries call 0131 226 8186 or email caitlin@fruitmarket.co.uk

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An event being held in Blackwells this evening hopes to inform you about the independence referendum.

At the height of the Scottish Independence debate, After Independence offers an in-depth and varied exploration of the possibilities for Scotland, from both pro and anti-independence standpoints.

Drawing together over two dozen leading minds on the subject, After Independence offers a comprehensive and balanced analysis of Scotland’s current and prospective political, economic, social and cultural situation.

More details about the event which starts at 6.30pm here. 

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Edinburgh-based comedienne, Jo Caulfield will convene the Speakeasy at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on 10 December 2013.

“A cross section of artists present dramatic and often hilarious storytelling insights into their varied worlds. Featuring Janey Godley, Professor Richard Wiseman, Juliette Burton and many more.”

Booking details here.

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The Christmas spirit is alive and well in the National Trust for Scotland property at Newhailes near Musselburgh, which is staging several events to celebrate the season.

One of the most popular events is back for a fourth year – the Nature Nippers is especially for the under fives and their parents. On 5 December, those taking part explore the wonderful grounds and enjoy the natural world it offers. Then there’s a chance to make some decorations that can be used to celebrate one of the many lovely trees.

On 7 December, for older children and adults there’s a session making Christmas wreaths – a really seasonal event accompanied by hot a drink and mince pie. A chance to let your imagination run free, and all the tools you need will be provided.

Meanwhile the Newhailes Nature Detectives Club will be active again later in the month – on 14 December they’re holding a seasonal quiz and craft session. If your child is into wildlife, the outdoors or environment then this club is for them with meetings every third Saturday. New members are always welcome. On this occasion as well as the fun knowledge testing there’ll be the creation of some natural festive decorations. Run by the Lothian Ranger Service the club explores the natural world locally and further afield and is a great way to introduce youngsters to the world around them.

Newhailes is a lovely place to visit at this time of year, with its atmospheric grounds; an 18^thCentury designed landscape, which provide wonderful walks. Take one of the paths through acres of shady woodlands and grasslands, and see if you can find the remains of the 18^th century teahouse, and the enchanting and mysterious shell grotto.

Dates and Tickets:

Nature Nippers – 05 December 2013 1000-1100

£3 per child (Children must be accompanied by an adult)

Booking essential For more information please call: 0844 493 2124

Or email lothianranger@nts.org.uk

Christmas Wreath Making – 07 December 2013 1000-1200 and 1400-1600

Making £20 Adults and Children (Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)

For more information please call: 0844 493 2125

Or book online at www.nts.org.uk

Newhailes Nature Detectives Club, Festive Decorations and Christmas Quiz –

14 December 2013 1000-1130.

Annual subscription £15 per child. Booking is essential

For more information please call: 0844 493 2124

On average, we will consume around 6,000 calories (kcal) on Christmas day alone (versus the recommended daily amount of 2,000 kcal for women and 2,500 kcal for men)¹!

Not only that but, over the festive period, which seems to kick off earlier and earlier every year, the average person could consume an extra 500 kcals per day, equating to a weight gain of around 5lb by the time we reach the beginning of the New Year².

The British Dietetic Association (BDA) is on hand to highlight some handy tips to ensure the only thing that gets really stuffed this Christmas is the turkey!

The BDA, founded in 1936, is the professional association for registered dieticians in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It is the nation’s largest organisation of food and nutrition professionals with over 7,000 members.

Forward Plan:  If you’re going to eat out, eat smaller meals in the run up and the next day and cut out any other treats beforehand.  Only open one box of chocolates at a time rather than having five on the go and put unopened boxes away.  Out of sight, out of mind.

Buffet Surfing:  Don’t stalk the buffet table.  If you do indulge, visit only once using a smaller dessert sized plate, avoiding the high saturated fat offerings like sausage rolls and quiche, in favour of fruit, skinless chicken and vegetable crudités.

Office Overload:  Don’t get tempted to hoover up your colleagues Christmas chocolates and other tempting offerings.  Avoid the office communal chocolate/mince pies fest.  Take festive fruit like satsumas into work.

Smart Supermarket:  When going to the supermarket, make a list and stick to it (good advice anytime of the year).  Only buy what you need.  Avoid those aisles of temptation, you know exactly where they are.  If you want some festive snacks, try plain popcorn, pretzels, and vegetable crudités with a yummy low fat dip.

Skin Deep:  Turkey is a great source of protein and a low fat meat.  Most of the fat that is present in a cooked turkey will be found in the skin.  Why not take the skin off before you tuck in?

No Portion Distortion:  At least a third of your dinner plate should be a variety of vegetables, such as unbuttered Brussels sprouts, peas and carrots.  Cook for the shortest length of time possible in the smallest amount of water necessary, steam or microwave to keep all the nutrients in.  Use the veg water for gravy and any leftover veg for a delicious soup.  These make a great contribution to your 5-a-day and they also help fill you up to stop the urge to snack between meals.

Healthy Options.  If you want to go that extra step, try dry roasting potatoes on a non-stick baking sheet or use an oil spray or brush instead of smothering them in goose fat.  You can also make your gravy using vegetable stock instead of meat juices, accompanied by a fruit-based stuffing with bread sauce made with low fat milk.  If using meat stock for gravy, let the fat rise to the top then skim off.

Bottoms Down.  Those who like to indulge in a drink or two, tend to drink more over the Christmas period.  Alcohol is very energy dense (7kcal/g versus 4kcal/g for protein or carbs and 9kcal/g for fat).  Avoid sweet cocktails and creamy liquers.  Try alternating your drink with a glass of water or other calorie-free drinks and if you do enjoy a short with a mixer, stock up on low-calorie mixers and unsweetened fruit juices and beware the home measures and large glasses!

Pie-Eyed.  The average mice pie contains about 250 calories and that’s before it’s covered in cream or brandy butter.  Remove the lid to cut calories.  Christmas is also the time of year when most houses have boxes and boxes of chocolates and biscuits to hand.   While we all like to enjoy the odd treat now and then, balance this with some healthy options, such as satsumas pilled high in a bowl, dried fruit, figs and nuts.  Again, out of sight is out of mind, so put away the biscuits and chocolates.

Speaking about these tips, Sian Porter, consultant dietitian and spokesperson for the BDA, said: “We’re not being killjoys and saying everybody should follow all of these tips, what we are saying is, if you are thinking about your calorie intake over Christmas, these tips may be worth considering.

“Christmas is a time when we all consume a little more than we usually do and that is absolutely fine.  It’s all about the bigger picture and if you are eating a balanced diet in the run-up to Christmas and perhaps in the New Year, you will be fine.  Make sure you have lots of healthy options to eat too, as often treats lose their allure when we’re eating them daily and we can get bored of all the rich food on offer and crave some basic foods like beans on toast or a refreshing fruit salad.

“The British Dietetic Association wishes you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!”

 Super-fast broadband has arrived in Davidson’s Mains, BT announced.

Upgrade hailed by Colin Keir MSP as more than 5,500 local homes and businesses set to benefit from BT’s £2.5 billion roll-out

Around 500 homes and businesses in the Edinburgh community now have access to the high-speed technology – and this figure will increase to more than 5,500 as engineers complete the local upgrade in the weeks ahead.

The BT investment was welcomed by Colin Keir, MSP for Edinburgh Western, who described it as great news for the area.

Mr Keir said: “Better, faster communications boost businesses, helping them grow, and create more jobs. What’s more, local residents can enjoy quicker browsing and downloading at home. This is great news for Davidson’s Mains, and I look forward to fibre being rolled out in other parts of North West Edinburgh.”

 Fibre broadband is now available to around 95,000 city homes and businesses and by the end of Spring 2014 more than 178,000 premises will be able to benefit from BT’s £2.5 billion fibre programme.

Brendan Dick, BT Scotland director, said:- “Our roll-out of fibre broadband continues to spread across Edinburgh, with Davidson’s Mains the latest place to benefit. More than two million homes and businesses across the UK are already using our new fibre network. Davidson’s Mains residents now have the opportunity to join them and find out for themselves why there’s such a buzz about fibre broadband.

“Whatever you’re doing online, you can do it better and faster with fibre. Whether it’s shopping, downloading music and video, watching TV, social networking, studying or researching homework, once you’ve switched to fibre you’ll never look back. Outside the home, it also has huge potential for public services and city businesses.

“Businesses working better with fibre tell us it’s helping them in a wealth of ways, from day to day activities like downloading software, collaborating with clients and moving large data files around to big business decisions like expanding the workforce or introducing better quality IT services at less cost.

 “BT is not just building a national communications network fit for 21st century Britain; we’re doing it at speed, making fibre broadband available to around 80,000 more premises a week.”

He added: “We’ve always said we’d like to work with the public sector to expand the fibre footprint beyond the commercial boundaries. In Scotland we are excited to be doing exactly that through multi-million pound partnerships with the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Broadband Delivery UK, local authorities and others.

“Alongside commercial upgrades, these ambitious projects will see 85 per cent of premises passed by fibre broadband by the end of 2015 and around 95 per cent by the end of 2017.”

BT’s fibre footprint currently passes more than 17 million UK homes and businesses. It’s due to pass two-thirds of UK premises – around 19 million premises – by the end of Spring 2014, at least 18 months ahead of the original timetable.

Openreach, BT’s local network business, is primarily deploying fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) technology, where the fibre runs from the exchange to a local roadside cabinet. In addition to download speeds of up to 80Mbps, FTTC also delivers upload speeds of up to 20Mbps^{2 —} and could deliver even faster speeds in the future.

Openreach has also started to make fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) technology, where the fibre runs all the way to the home or business, commercially available on demand³ in certain areas where fibre broadband has been deployed, and plans to expand access in due course. FTTP-on-demand offers the top current download speed of 330Mbps.

According to the regulator Ofcom, the current average UK residential broadband download speed is 14.7Mbps.

Fibre broadband at home means everyone in the family can do their own thing online, all at the same time, whether it’s downloading music in minutes or watching catch-up TV; streaming HD or 3D movies in the few minutes it takes to make popcorn; or posting photos and videos to social networking sites in seconds. Fibre improves the quality of online experiences and supports exciting new developments in internet services.

The benefits are also considerable for businesses, which can do much more in far less time. Firms can speed up file and data transfers, collaborate with colleagues and customers on conference or video calls or swap their hardware and expensive software licenses for files, processing power and software from cloud computing. Staff can work as effectively from home as they would in the office.

Unlike other companies, Openreach offers fibre broadband access to all service providers on an open, wholesale basis, underpinning a competitive market. For further information on Openreach’s fibre broadband programme visit www.superfast-openreach.co.uk

Hearts’ goalkeeper Jamie Macdonald has apologised to supporters following the seven goal defeat to Celtic at Tynecastle on Sunday. The result was Hearts’ worst home defeat for over 40 years, and Macdonald made a statement on the club website.

He said: “That was as difficult a game as I’ve ever been involved in. I’d just like to apologise to the fans for what happened. It was an embarrassment. We are disappointed for ourselves and for the fans.

“It was a bad day at the office for us and this is probably the most difficult time I’ve had in football. We didn’t do ourselves any favours at the first couple of goals.

“Losing an early goal is the cardinal sin against Celtic. You try to get to 15 minutes and contain them. To be honest, you have to give Celtic a lot of credit. They were phenomenal. If they played like that against anyone they’d have given them a doing.

“We need to bounce back now. That’s the most important thing and we even said that at half-time. We knew we were out of the Scottish Cup but the big thing was to see what the boys were made of and how they would all react.

“You learn a lot about players in these games and we did improve in the second half. We kept our shape better. But it was still one-way traffic and Celtic were fantastic on the day. But the boys have to remember how they feel after this game and make sure they never feel like it again.

“It was a harsh lesson for all the players and especially the young ones but that’s going to happen. It’s character building and it’s now about how we bounce back from this defeat as a team. We’ve had a few losses this season already but today’s result was a different kettle of fish.

“The boys need to take it on board, learn from the mistakes we made and look at how Celtic played – and maybe take something from that. Hopefully we are much improved in the next game.”

Alison Johnstone, Green MSP for Lothian, is backing Amnesty International’s Write for Rights Campaign 2013.

The annual global campaign highlights human rights abuses taking place around the world while others are celebrating the holiday season. Ordinary people everywhere are asked to send a message of solidarity and hope, or to appeal directly to the relevant government in the country where the abuse is taking place.

Alison has written in support of Eskinder Nega, a journalist being held in prison by the Ethiopian authorities for speaking out about the Ethiopian Government’s use of anti-terror laws and for speculating that the Arab Spring could extend to Ethiopia.

Speaking in support of the Write for Rights Campaign, Alison Johnstone MSP said: “I am backing Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign to help them highlight these appalling human rights violations. Amnesty International does a great job shining a light on some of the worst violations of rights across the world, and the Write for Rights Campaign is a simple way in which people can play their part in helping them to do so.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested in taking part to look at Amnesty’s website for details of the cases they are highlighting this year, and discover how easy it is to participate. At a time of year when many of us are celebrating; it is nice if we can take just a little bit of time to help others – together we have the potential to make a huge difference.”

Amnesty International Scotland’s Programme Director Richard Hamer added: “I would like to thank Alison for taking part in our Write for Rights Campaign and helping raise awareness of the cases we have chosen of ordinary men and women who are having their human rights taken from them in the most appalling ways.

“It is a sad fact that the thirteen cases we have chosen to highlight this year are only a very small sample of some of the individual cases that Amnesty International is dealing with. However, we know the power people have when they come together to make a stand and put pressure on governments involved to help those we have identified.”

Details of the Write for Rights Campaign can be found at the Amnesty International website at https://www.amnesty.org.uk/write-rights-2013.

Charity Christmas cards on sale from today in Paper Tiger

An Edinburgh businessman has today launched a Christmas appeal to raise money for the Royal Hospital for Sick Children (RHSC) following his own daughter’s four month stay last year.

Daniel Johnson, Creative Director of the well known Edinburgh stores Paper Tiger and Studio One, was so impressed by the facility and his experience that he has pledged to give something back through a festive fundraising appeal.

Packs of specially designed charity cards, created by the Sick Kids Friends Foundation’s (SKFF) illustrator-in-residence, Cate James, are on sale today in Paper Tiger and SKFF’s pop up shop in Princes Mall from Wednesday to raise much needed cash for the charity, which supports the hospital. The packs will retail for £4.99 with £1.85 from every pack sold being donated to the appeal.

Daniel Johnson’s daughter, Freya, was born prematurely in April last year with a complication to her small intestine. The tiny baby was unable to feed without medical intervention and as a result spent the first four months of her life in the Sick Kids Hospital. Daniel Johnson said: ”The Edinburgh Sick Kids is a superb facility and made an extremely difficult period in our lives a far more bearable and positive experience. Our lives where turned upside down when our precious baby was born with health complications but we couldn’t have asked for more than the commitment, dedication and care that we received in those first fraught months.

”The work that goes on both in the hospital and through SKFF deserves massive recognition and by dedicating Paper Tiger’s 2013 Christmas appeal to the charity we hope to be able to give something back to demonstrate our appreciation.”

The Sick Kids Friends Foundation is a charity dedicated to supporting the work of the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh. The Foundation provides specialist equipment and facilities to improve the hospital experience for both children and their families.

Chief executive of the Foundation, Maureen Harrison, added: “We are delighted to team up with Paper Tiger for the 2013 Christmas card appeal.

“Freya is one of the many children who pass through the hospital doors each year. Without the support of the wider community and our corporate partners we would be unable to continue to provide vital care for sick children.

“Cate has been working alongside children in the hospital to enhance their creative experience there and has designed some wonderful illustrations for this year’s Christmas cards.

“On behalf of the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, I would like to thank Daniel and Paper Tiger for this generous contribution, which will help us provide life-saving care for some of the country’s sickest children.”

The charity cards will be sold exclusively in Paper Tiger on Stafford Street and the Sick Kids Friends Foundation pop-up Christmas shop in Princes Mall.

Submitted by Louise Robertson

As the weather hit a colder spell this week I found myself layering two thin scarves together to stay warm.

It’s probably time to invest in a chunkier coverup especially when snow is forecast this month. Edinburgh based Fashion and Knitwear designer Fiona Somerville has created this cosy patterned Merino wool scarf (£150) finished with satin binding.

It can be worn around the neck or as an evening wrap over a tailored jacket. Its size means not even a hint of skin will be exposed to the elements. Since graduating from Edinburgh College of Art in 2011, Fiona has combined her Scottish heritage with contemporary design. Her knitwear pieces are hand made in Scotland using British wool. Visit her website to view the full collection www.fionasomerville.co.uk

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.