The founders of Queen Margaret College and the Edinburgh School of Cookery, Louisa Stevenson (1835 – 1908) and Christian Guthrie Wright, (1844 – 1907) are to be celebrated with Scottish colourist Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, (1883-1937) in the first year of Scotland’s Commemorative Plaque Scheme.

The announcement was made by Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs.

The Commemorative Plaque scheme is designed to celebrate the life and achievements of significant historic figures, through the erection of a plaque on their home where they lived, or the building that was particularly synonymous with their achievements.

The nominations were submitted by the public and the final twelve chosen by an independent panel of experts with the first year of the Commemorative Plaque Scheme celebrating the Year of Creative Scotland.

Ms Hyslop said: “The Commemorative Plaque Scheme highlights the range of incredible creativity shown by the talented people of Scotland, celebrating individuals such as Cadell, one of ‘The Scottish Colourists, renowned for his stylish portrayals of Edinburgh New Town interiors and paintings of Iona.

“Louisa Stevenson and Christian Guthrie Wright were pivotal women who not only founded Queen Margaret College and the Edinburgh School of Cookery, but they also had a vision for a creative, fairer and healthier society.”

Professor Petra Wend, Principal, Queen Margaret University commented: ”Louisa Stevenson and Christian Guthrie Wright were two remarkable women who essentially founded Queen Margaret University in 1875 when they created the Edinburgh School of Cookery. Supporters of the mid-Victorian women’s movement, they campaigned for improved career opportunities for women who were at that point excluded from higher and technical education, with an inevitable consequence being widespread female poverty.

“Their vision for a fairer and healthier society and their contribution towards enhancing the lives of others has survived and flourished to this day.”

Alan Welsh, who nominated Cadell said: “Cadell revelled in the northern light of the Scottish capital, the beauty of its architecture and the elegance of its inhabitants, making them the subject matter of his art.

“After the war, Cadell was no longer attempting to capture images of fashionable society, but instead was concerned with an almost abstract concept of space and perspective, creating some of the most remarkable paintings in British art of the period. These are unprecedented and are the most colourful paintings of any of the Scottish Colourists.”

Ms Hyslop continued: “The Plaques Scheme also commemorates historic figures who have made a significant contribution to Scotland and the world including television pioneer John Logie Baird, steam pioneer James Watt and Archibald Findlay, Fife potato geneticist who produced the first blight-resistant potato, making the food safe from disease.”

Cruise and Maritime Voyages (CMV) have increased their number of departures out of Scotland in 2014 to 13 from 5 this year.

The CMV ship Discovery will sail from Rosyth, Glasgow Greenock and Edinburgh Leith in 2014. There are cruises to Iceland, Baltic Cities and Russia, Norwegian Fjords, the North Cape, Scottish Islands and Faroes to choose from.

Discovery is a traditional smaller ship with wooden decks, carrying up to 700 passengers, and able to reach more remote ports of call. She provides the unique country-house style experience on board that Cruise & Maritime Voyages is well known for. Most of the passengers are British and the currency on board is sterling.

Mike Hall, Head of Marketing at CMV said “Our Scottish passengers have made it perfectly clear that if we operate cruises closer to where they live they will book them. Currently, we have a Buy One Get One Free (BOGOF) campaign. This includes many of our Scottish departures. This current campaign is due to end on 7 December 2013.”

Cruises from Scotland some examples of the ‘Buy one get one half price.’

Majestic Fjordland departs Rosyth 6 April for 7 nights visits to Shetland Islands, Eidfjord, Flåm, and Bergen. Prices from £829pp with the second sharing passenger travelling free.

Scottish Isles & Faroes departs Greenock 29 June for 5 nights visiting Ullapool, the Orkneys, Faroes, and the Outer Hebrides. Prices from £619pp with the second sharing passenger travelling free.

North Cape & Land of the Midnight Sun departs from Edinburgh – Leith 2 August for 10 nights. Cruising to the Top of the World, visiting Hellesylt, view the Svartisen Glacier and the stunning Lofoten Islands. You cruise deep inside the Arctic Circle to the North Cape, and if the weather holds out, the chance to see the Midnight Sun. Other ports include Hammerfest, Honningsvaag, Tromsø and Ålesund . Prices from £1229pp with second sharing passenger travelling free.

Find out more about these itineraries and other options for sailing from Scotland www.cruiseandmaritime.com  0844 414 6185

Prices are from and per person based on two people sharing an inner cabin on a full board basis with afternoon tea and late night snacks included. Also included in the fare are daytime activities, guest speaker programme, evening ‘big show’ entertainment, complimentary tea and coffee (6am – 10pm). Sterling is the on board currency. Gratuities at £5pp per night will be added to on board accounts

Around 600 students in the creative sector will benefit from Commonwealth Games broadcast training and work experience thanks to a half million pound funding package.

The Host Broadcaster Training Initiative (HBTI), a key Legacy 2014 programme of Glasgow 2014, will see over 200 students receive work experience at the Commonwealth Games, with a further 400 students and lecturers taking part in world-class training.

Financial support of £534,000 from the Scottish Funding Council and Skills Development Scotland has been confirmed today.

The initiative will be jointly managed and delivered by SVGTV, the Host Broadcaster for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and Creative Loop, Scotland’s talent development hub for the creative media industries.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop, who today met some of the students involved and unveiled the Legacy 2014 Outside Broadcast truck, said: “Working at Scotland’s biggest ever sporting event will be an exciting and rewarding experience for these students. The benefits for Scotland are a new generation of talent, giving Scottish firms a wider pool of experienced staff to cover other major sporting or music events. There will also be a greater ability for our colleges to teach new skills in the creative industries. That is a tremendous, tangible and long lasting legacy from hosting the Games.”

David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, said: “Sunset Vine and Global TV, Glasgow 2014’s Host Broadcaster, will showcase the XX Commonwealth Games to the world. In doing so, they will implement a training initiative that not only delivers great coverage of the Games, but makes an investment in Scotland’s media industry by creating opportunities for hundreds of students who will gain valuable skills and experience at a vital time in the beginning of their careers. Its positive impact promises to be felt for many years to come.”

Alistair Shirlaw, 27 is at the Glasgow Clyde College Cardonald Campus. He said: “I have been working as a freelance camera operator for over a year and I have spent my life chasing the dream of being able to work in the industry. Being involved in the Commonwealth Games would not only be a dream come true, it would also hopefully get my foot firmly in the door of the television industry.”

Student Andrew Richardson, 22 is taking the Masters Course in Broadcast Journalism at the Hamilton Campus of the University of the West of Scotland. He added: “Sport is a massive part of my life, so the chance to work at the Commonwealth Games with the HBTI is a fantastic opportunity. For those who are just starting out and trying to break into the industry, it’s the first step on the ladder and a foot in the door. Not many students in broadcasting are lucky enough to experience such an important event coming to their home town as they try to develop a career.”

Laurence Howells, interim Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity for students to get training and hands-on experience before putting their skills to use as part of the teams who will be bringing us broadcast coverage of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. We are delighted to provide the funding to allow these students to get the skills and experience they need which will give them the best chance to get many of the jobs on offer with host broadcasters next year.”

Educational institutes involved include Dundee and Angus College, North East Scotland College, Edinburgh College, West College Scotland, Perth College UHI, Glasgow Clyde College, Glasgow Kelvin College, City of Glasgow College, Fife College, Edinburgh Napier University, University of Stirling, Glasgow Caledonian University, University of West of Scotland.

Jeff Foulser, Chairman of Sunset+Vine, said: “The HBTI will see participating students given real skills training in how to use the latest Outside Broadcast (OB) hardware equipment and technology, as well as real work experience in live broadcast, creative production. The intention is that these students will reach sufficient proficiency through their pre-Games education to be deployed during the Games itself, providing an invaluable skills legacy for the broadcast and television production industry in Scotland beyond Glasgow 2014.”

Grant Ritchie, Creative Loop Chairman, said: “Creative Loop is delighted to be delivering this world-class training for young broadcast specialists from colleges and universities across Scotland. Participation in the HBTI will be limited to those students already enrolled on designated courses within the institutions, but this is a very exciting opportunity for anyone who gets Involved.”

Damien Yeates, Chief Executive of Skills Development Scotland said: “SDS is delighted to support this initiative. TV production in Scotland is expected to grow over the coming years so it is crucial that we develop the skills in our young people that will enable them to take up opportunities in this exciting industry.”

Children, young people and students are being encouraged to get animated in a competition launched last week by Edinburgh Museums & Galleries and Red Kite Animation.

Inspired by artist Qian Shi’s award-winning animated short film about a toy shoe, the ‘Hidden Stories’ animation competition is designed to celebrate Edinburgh’s rich heritage and the art of animation.

Inspired by a visit to the Museum of Childhood in 2006, the Chinese artist Qian Shi made the film ‘Shoe’ while she was studying for a bachelor degree in animation. She was so inspired by the Shoe Doll, which has been on display in the museum since the 1920s, that she made it the subject of her degree film. It went on to win the Best Student Film in the 2008 Bradford Animation Festival and a MX Award at the Tokyo Animé Fair in 2010.

Budding animators from across Scotland have until the end of March 2014 to submit short films based upon either a real or imagined back story of an object of their choice, housed in one of Edinburgh’s Museums & Galleries.

Last year, winning entries were showcased in a red carpet screening at the Cameo Cinema with a judging panel made up of representatives from the Edinburgh International Film Festival, Edinburgh College of Art, Red Kite Animation and BAFTA Award winner Will Anderson.

Councillor Richard Lewis, the city’s Culture & Sport Convener, said:- “The many and varied exhibits on display in Edinburgh Museums & Galleries have provided artists with inspiration for decades and the animation competition is a very 21st Century take on this theme. In previous years the judges have been overwhelmed with the high standard of entries, the excellent production values and imagined back stories. The competition continues to go from strength to strength and this year I’d encourage all budding animators enter for a chance to showcase their work to many of the Capital’s industry experts.”

Successful entries from the 2013 competition will be on display at the City Art Centre in a free exhibition running until 12 January 2014.

Fiona Henderson, Red Kite Animation, said: “We are thrilled to be part of this exciting project, collaborating with Edinburgh Museums and Galleries once again. It is so important to nurture young animation talent in Scotland to support our thriving animation community. We are delighted to host the Animation Competition 2014 and cannot wait to see all the fantastic, innovative and creative entries.”

More information:

Submissions are being invited from three categories: primary school, secondary school and students/young people (18-24 years). The closing date is 28 March 2014.

Further information on how to enter the competition is available from the website here.

Red Kite Animation is an award-winning production company specialising in children’s animated programmes for international television broadcast.

2013 Winners:

Category: Primary School

Winner: Auld Reekie by Stockbridge Primary (inspired by a wooden rattle and glass trumpet at the Museum of Childhood)

Auld Reekie from margaret renton on Vimeo.

Runners Up: Leerie by Hermitage Park Primary School (inspired by a book sculpture at the Writer’s Museum) and Baby of Waterloo by Howden St Andrew’s RC Primary School (inspired by a medal)

Category: Secondary School

Winner: Lobster Tail by Bathgate Academy (inspired by lobster tail helmet)

Category: Student

Winner: Reclamation of Walter Scott’s Hair by Mark Boston, Edinburgh College of Art, (inspired by Sir Walter Scott’s letter in the Writer’s Museum)

Runners Up: To My Pipe by Scott McHenry, Edinburgh College of Art, (inspired by R L Stevenson pipe in the Writer’s Museum) and Marvellous Adventure of Two Frozen Charlotte by Vera Babida, Edinburgh College of Art, (inspired by black frozen charlotte in the Museum of Childhood)

A grandmother of two from Edinburgh has raised thousands of pounds for children with cancer after scaling Kilimanjaro last month.

Lynne McNicoll, 56, and her team of 30 volunteers, raised over £120,000 for local charity ‘It’s Good 2 Give.’ The charity, which Lynne  founded in 2010, has already raised over £400,000 for local young people with cancer and their families.

Lynne, who had previously worked in administration for most of her life, only began fundraising for charity on the run up to her 50^th birthday. She said:- “I knew I didn’t need presents, so I thought, what could I do that’s different? I’m going to raise money for charity.”

As her husband had suffered from cancer two years before, they decided to look into fundraising for cancer charities, but for young people. She said:- “We read about Teenage Cancer Trust and I said ‘I’m going to raise £5,000’. But my husband said ‘You can do better than that! Why don’t you do £1000 for each year of your life?’ And so my £50,000 challenge was born.”

Over the next three years, Lynne raised over £650,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust, and was awarded Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year in 2009. After setting up ‘It’s Good 2 Give’ in 2010, and having previously trekked across both the Sahara and the Himalayas, Kilimanjaro was her most difficult challenge yet.

The Kilimanjaro team was comprised of 31 trekkers: 28 women and three men. Of this group, four of the trekkers were parents of young cancer patients, two were related to young people who died from cancer, one was a former young cancer patient herself and a nurse from the local childrens’ oncology ward also volunteered.

24 out of the 31 who trekked (unfortunately not including Lynne) made it all the way to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Describing herself as the ‘granny of the group’, McNicoll said:- “It was horrific. The air, it’s so light on oxygen. I saw things. I thought I saw cows, and I definitely saw butterflies, and a black cat. And there’s none of that up there.”

“Lots of us felt like that. One girl was really sick. She was literally just throwing up at the side of the path and keeping on walking. I don’t know how she did it.”

The second day of the trek was particularly tough. McNicoll said:- “It was literally climbing, not walking. We were having to walk along little ledges, and hold onto stuff, and I thought  ‘I didn’t expect this!’ There were moments when I thought, what I would do to just curl up in a corner and have somebody just come and get me.”

One of the group broke her leg during the trek and came back on crutches which meant time spent in the local hospital, and time spent on insurance matters to get her back home. So it was clearly not all plain sailing.

Louise Caithness, Director of Zest Skin Spa, was one of the 24 who made it to the summit. Louise said:- “Summit day was by far the toughest yet proudest day of my entire life and made me think about the tough challenges faced by our young cancer patients and their families. No matter how hard it was for me, it was nothing like chemotherapy. I repeated this mantra in my head until I reached the very top.”

One of the only men in the team, Graham Lawson, has a 6 year-old daughter who was diagnosed with leukaemia just before Christmas 2011. Lawson said:-  “Kilimanjaro was hard – but pales into insignificance when compared to the mountain that children with cancer have to face. My daughter has another 6 months of chemotherapy to go, and she inspired my every step to the top.”

Fiona Bruce, a Staff Nurse working in Edinburgh’s Sick Kids Oncology Ward, also made it to the summit. She said: “On summit day, walking in the dark, following all the little lights in the distance made me think about all the children we have lost and reminded me why we were doing it.”

It’s Good 2 Give has recently begun working with Breaking Strain events for their physical challenges. They are taking part in their first ever 5k run, ‘The Red-Faced Run’, sometime in 2014, as well as their annual Pedal 4 Paul bike ride. Another overseas challenge is also set for 2015.

McNicoll said that, by the end of the climb, the team had all become much closer as a result of some of the more gruesome aspects of the trip, but wasn’t giving too much away. Lynne and her team are standing by their Kilimanjaro mantra. “What goes on trek, stays on trek!” said McNicoll.

Following reports of alleged bogus workman activity in the Wester Drylaw area of Edinburgh last week, a man has been arrested and charged in connection with this.

The 41 year old is appearing in court today (Monday 11th November.)

Police are continuing to investigate further reports of bogus workmen in the area.

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

Police in Edinburgh and their partner agencies are carrying out a month-long campaign to make communities safer and improve the quality of life for members of the public in Pentlands area.

As part of Police Scotland’s commitment to keeping people safe, local officers in Wester Hailes will be conducting targeted action across the area as part of the on-going Operation Cipher.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and City of Edinburgh Council will support activities aimed at deterring crime, identifying local offenders and engaging with the public.

Partner agencies will also work within the area to address utilities and facilities in need of repair.

The first week of the Operation Cipher action begins in the Dumbryden Gardens and Longstone Street areas on Monday 11th November.

Police will mark the beginning of the initiative by hosting a mobile surgery in these streets.

During this time, officers will discuss community policing matters with the public and offer advice and guidance on a range of crime prevention issues.

Further activity across the week will include high-visibility foot patrols, leaflet drops promoting the Police Scotland “Made From Crime” campaign and executing arrests for those currently with an outstanding warrant.

Throughout this phase of Operation Cipher, all agencies involved will tweet about the actions being undertaken to benefit the local communities.

The public can keep up to date with the progress of the operation by following:

* @PentlandsPolice

* @SouthWest_Neighbourhood

* @Scotfire_east and @Scotfire_Edin

Followers on Twitter can also join the discussion using #Cipher.

Inspector Stevie Dolan said: “Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe and we are looking forward to once again working with our partners to identify and address the issues affecting the Pentland communities.

“During this phase of Cipher we are carrying out numerous activities, which we hope will make the area safer, cleaner and stronger and are keen to engage with the public throughout the month.

“We are keen to hear from the public about how Operation Cipher can improve their community, and would urge anyone wishing to raise a local issue to come to one of our engagement opportunities in the coming weeks or get in touch via twitter using #Cipher.”

Community Safety leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day, said: “Joint initiatives like Operation Cipher have been hugely successful in other parts of the city and I am sure that this one will be of great benefit to Wester Hailes. It is a great opportunity for our Community safety teams and partner organisations to get feedback from the local community so that we can use to tackle serious issues such as anti-social behaviour.

“I would urge residents to come forward if they have any information that might be helpful as this can make all the difference in making neighbourhoods safer, better places to live.”

Crew Manager Bruce Nisbet from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said “Partnership working is key to making the Community we serve a safer place for all who live, work and travel within it and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are proud to be a partner agency in Operation Cipher. As part of this phase of the operation the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will be seeking to identify improvements which will aid the operational response to an incident, particularly the ability to access streets within housing developments. It is vital for the emergency services to reach those who are in in urgent need of help as soon as possible, whether that be for a fire, medical emergency or an incident which requires the response from the Police and a delay in attending an incident due to poorly parked cars is unacceptable.

“As part of our commitment to building a safer Scotland we offer everyone in Scotland a free home fire safety visit. We can also fit smoke alarms free of charge if your home requires them. You can get in touch via the following options:

Visit our website http://www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/for-householders/home-fire-safety-visit.aspx or  call 0800 0731 999 text “Check” to 61611 from your mobile phone.”

Police in Edinburgh are today launching a two-week road safety initiative to promote safer driving and cycling in the city centre.

The initiative will see police provide advice to both groups on appropriate road behaviour, and take action against those who break the law by driving or cycling in a manner that puts other road users, and pedestrians, at risk.

Officers will be on cycle patrol in locations throughout the city centre, particularly at busy times of the day where traffic is at a peak.

They will be keeping an eye out for common offences such as failing to obey traffic lights, illegal parking or stopping on main commuter roads, cycling on pavements, and cycling without lights during hours of darkness.

While initially officers will seek to provide corrective advice if they spot minor infringements, tough action will be taken against motorists or cyclists whose behaviour puts themselves and other road users at risk.

PC Stephen Kirk, from Police Scotland, said: “This fortnight-long initiative will have two phases, with the focus over the first week being on educating city centre road users on how they can keep themselves and others safe, at a time of year when hazards increase, not least because of darker evenings.

“The second week will focus more heavily on enforcement, particularly against those who we identify as repeat or blatant offenders whose behaviour warrants action.

“The ultimate aim of the initiative is to reduce road casualties in the city centre at a time of year where casualty numbers rise, particularly among cyclists.

“Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe, and our aim is to improve the safety of road users in Edinburgh city centre through a combination of education and targeted enforcement.”

The Capitals finally ended a dismal run of 10 straight home defeats with superb victory over reigning league champions Nottingham Panthers at Murrayfield last night, but after going four-nil up midway through the second period and seemingly coasting, the Caps had their fans on the edge of their seats before finally securing the win after overtime.

Nottingham brought a large contingent of fans for their second match in Scotland in two days, having lost to Fife Flyers in Saturday, and they were in confident mood but it was the Edinburgh side that grabbed an early lead when Tomas Horna fired home at 3.52 following an assist from Curtis Leinweber, to the delight of the home supporters.

Horna was then ordered to the penalty bench at 15.29 and was followed by Marcis Zembergs at 18.08 for hooking, but the Capitals held firm and ended the first period in front.

The Capitals then doubled their lead with a fine strike from Marcis Zembergs at 21.28 following a double assist from Martin Cingel and Jade Portwood before the Panthers had the puck in the net only to see the ‘goal’ ruled out.

Nottingham were down to four men when  Zembergs scored his second at 31.22 following assists from Michal Benadik and Marc Fowley then then Curtis Leinweber added a fourth on the powerplay at 32.07 with assists from Tomas Horna and Daniel McIntyre.

The visitors pulled one back as Tom Norton opened their account at 35.19, then McIntyre was binned for tripping at 36.19.

With the Caps down to four men, Nottingham added a second from Joe Jenson on the powerplay at 36.19 but Peter Holecko restored the three goal advantage at 38.54 with assists from Curtis Leinweber and Richard Hartmann and the second period ended with the Caps 5-2 in front and seemingly coasting.

Backed by an enthusiastic travelling support however, the Panthers fought back and levelled the scoring at 5-5 following three goals in six minutes.

A double from Jonathan Boxill at 44.22 and 49.19 followed by a powerplay goal from Chris Murray at 50.14silenced the Caps’ fans and set up an exciting finish.

Once again Curtis Leinweber put the Scots ahead at 54.13 with assists from Jan Safar and Jade Portwood but Nottingham responded immediately through Jonathon Weaver at 54.38. This was the Nottingham player’s 500^th career point in all competitions.

Both sides had chances to win the game but when the whistle blew to signal the end of the third period, the scores were tied at 6-6.

The game then went into overtime and at 61.44, the Capitals were awarded a penalty shot which Jade Portwood calmly slotted home to give the hosts the much deserved win.

Both sides left the rink to a standing ovation from the breathless spectators as a thank you for a fantastic night’s entertainment.

The Capitals host Belfast Giants next Saturday night at Murrayfield.

Photographs by John Preece http://www.jlp-photography.co.uk/Sports-201314

Measures aimed at making it easier for local authorities to recover money spent when repairing dangerous buildings are to be examined by the Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Regeneration Committee.

The Committee want to hear from those who would be affected by the Bill including business, local authorities and other organisations about whether the legislation goes far enough and will work in practice.

Introduced by David Stewart MSP, the Defective and Dangerous Buildings (Recovery of Expenses) (Scotland) Bill seeks to bring in ‘charging orders’ which will allow local authorities to recover their costs and expenses where they have carried out work to defective and dangerous buildings.

Committee Convener Kevin Stewart MSP said:-“Safeguarding the public from defective and dangerous buildings is an important role for local authorities across Scotland. Clearly any measures which seek to improve the ability of local authorities to undertake these repairs are to be welcomed.”

“However, what our Committee wants to know is whether the proposals contained within the Bill will work in practice and if this is really the best way to ensure that local authorities are confident they can recover costs of bringing buildings back into a good state of repair. Only by hearing from those who would be affected can we ensure if this is indeed the case.”

The Committee is keen to hear from all those who have an interest in the Bill. In particular, the Committee would like to know:

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed Bill?

• Whether the Bill will improve local authority’s ability to undertake repairs to dangerous and defective buildings.

• Where the initial capital required can be found?

• Where the owner of a building is not known how will the Bill improve on the current situation?

• Why is the approach in this Bill preferable to that of the Scottish Government in their recent Community Empowerment consultation?”

The Defective and Dangerous Buildings (Recovery of Expenses) (Scotland) Bill was introduced to the Scottish Parliament on 30 October 2013. Information about the Bill can be found via the attached link:

http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/69042.aspx

The main principles of the Bill will allow local authorities to make charging orders (which secures the debt to the property) for recovery of expenses incurred where they have carried out work on defective or dangerous buildings.

The closing date for submissions is 31 January 2014

Submissions should be limited to no more than eight pages of A4. Responses should be sent, wherever possible, electronically and in MS Word format to: DDbuildingsbill.lgrc@scottish.parliament.uk

Responses can also be sent by post to:

Clerk to the Local Government and Regeneration Committee
Committee Office
Room T3.40
Scottish Parliament
Edinburgh
EH99 1SP

Our friends at Greener Leith have alerted us to the possibility of a big citywide clean up on 29 November. There has been no real official word from the council except on these pages here.

If you know of any areas which need to be attended to then get in touch!

View Clean Up Edinburgh in a larger map

All eyes will be on Easter Road today with Hibs’ fans awaiting news of a managerial appointment to replace Pat Fenlon.  Elsewhere well done Hearts following a dramatic comeback at Pittodrie and congratulations to the Edinburgh Capitals for ending a dismal run of results.

International Rugby

Scotland 42 Japan 17

Tries Scotland: Seymour 2, Laidlaw, Dickinson, Weir, Lamont Cons: Laidlaw 2, Weir Pens: Laidlaw 2

Tries Japan: Fukuoka 2Cons: Goromaru 2Pen: Goromaru

Rugby Round-up by John Preece

With the International at Murrayfield, it was a fairly depleted club weekend with the opening round of the Edinburgh District competitions being played.

In Pool 1, a weakened Watsonians still managed to put Musselburgh to the sword, 59-23, under the lights at Myreside on Friday night, while, on Saturday, a probably equally depleted Boroughmuir side defeated Haddington 32-19 in Haddington.

In Pool 2, Currie disposed of Biggar 34-12, again under lights, at Malleny Park in Balerno.

Pool 3 had Heriots away at Livingston for their 41-10 win, at the same time as Stewarts-Melville were edging Murrayfield Wanderers at home 25-20.

So the expected sides won through against lower division teams, but it gives them a chance to test themselves against superior opposition, although usually not at full strength, and to see what life could be like higher up the echelons of Scottish Rugby.

One point that might be worth making is regarding the scheduling of fixtures on International match days. As the club calendar appears to be fairly crowded, then not having matches may not be feasible, but how players/officials/spectators are expected to get from even Inverleith to Murrayfield from a 12:30 start, never mind Haddington, in time for a 2:30 kick-off at Murrayfield is beyond comprehension. Yes, if the club has lights – e.g. Watsonians and Currie – Friday night matches are possible, but surely the others could be played to 11:00 am or on even the non-match day, be that Saturday or Sunday. Could boost the crowds… A bit…

Heriots were also playing on the Murrayfield back pitches where the Under-18 school side were playing their counterparts from Dundee for a place in the Brewin-Dolphin U-18 Cup Final. But is was to be the Tayside team that won through, taking the match 27-12 in, sometimes, trying conditions to their place in the final where they will meet the winners from the meeting between Watsonians and Strathallan, which will be played on the 11th November. The ER photographer/reporter was present at the Heriots-Dundee match for a short time before the International and managed to capture a Heriot’s run-away try which drew them level at 12-12, but, unfortunately for Heriots, Dundee took a stranglehold on the match and racked up another 15 points for the win.

SPFL Football

Mixed fortuned this weekend for the capital clubs. Hearts travelled to Pittodrie where they went one nil down to a 26^th minute Niall McGinn. Twelve minutes later Jamie MacDonald produced a fine save to deny McGinn a second from the penalty spot.

Nine minutes after the break, Barry Robson was sent off after tripping Jason Holt and Hearts took full advantage. Danny Wilson flocked on a Jordan McGhee free-kick and Jamie Walker was on hand to equalise.

Walker then found Callum Paterson who tapped in for Hearts’ second then Ryan Stevenson secured the points in injury time.

At Easter Road, Hibs produced a dismal display in front of the lowest home league crowd of the season which included management target Terry Butcher who watched from the West Stand.

James Collins gave away a penalty after 14 minutes which Nick Ross converted then three minutes later Billy McKay added a second.

Congratulations go to Jason Cummings who made his first team debut coming on as a second half substitute for James Collins.

An announcement on the vacant manager’s post is expected early this week.

Lowland League

A  Keith McLeod goal was enough to secure the three points as Spartans beat Edinburgh City in a hard fought encounter at Ainslie Park.

The goal came on the half hour mark when Kevin Motion played an inch perfect pass to the feet of McLeod who took a touch before slotting the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

Dougie Gair had a chance to equalise for the visitors just before half time but his shot flew just over the bar from just a few yards out.

City piled the pressure in the latter stages but Spartans were able to hold on, much to the delight of the noisy home crowd and move further clear at the top of the Lowland League.

Malt & Hops Man of the Match: Danny O’Donnell.

Elsewhere:

Dalbeattie Star 3-3 Preston Athletic FT

East Kilbride 1-2 University of Stirling FT

Gala Fairydean Rovers 3-0 Whitehill Welfare FT

Gretna 2008 2-3 Vale of Leithen FT

Threave Rovers 0-0 Selkirk FT

Central Taxis East of Scotland League Premier Division

Coldstream 1-4 Tynecastle

Craigroyston 6-1 Stirling University

Edinburgh University 1-3 Leith Athletic

Heriot-Watt University 0-0 Spartans

Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale 2-0 Civil Service Strollers

First Division

Duns 0-1 Berwick Rangers Reserves

Eyemouth United 3-3 Burntisland Shipyard

Ormiston 2-3 Kelso United

Peebles Rovers 3-2 Hawick Royal Albert

Easthouses Lily MW 4-1 Hibernian

Women’s Football

Congratulations to Hibs Under 15s who beat Glasgow City 1-0 to win the Scottish Cup on Saturday.

Ice Hockey

Congratulations to Edinburgh Capitals for ending a poor run of results with a fantastic 7-6 win over Nottingham Panthers in overtime at Murrayfield last night.

The Caps stormed into a 4-0 lead before the Panthers fought back and levelled the scores at 6-6 with minutes remaining.

A penalty goal in overtime secured the win. I full match report including some excellent photographs by John Preece will appear on the Edinburgh Reporter website later today.

Speedway

The Scotwaste Monarchs team of 2013 all gathered together last Sunday at the Edinburgh Capital Hotel to celebrate a fine season along with 180 supporters.

All the riders were present with the biggest cheer of the evening going to Jozsef Tabaka who was still smiling, although clearly struggling to walk on crutches.

Craig Cook also received a huge ovation when he came to the floor to speak and what came across loud and clear was the fantastic team spirit that the team has generated over the past few weeks.

The evening was a fund raiser for the Air Fence Fund and produced a contribution of more than £1000 to that Fund. John Campbell announced during the evening that the Fund stood at £3259.94 with a large part of that coming from Bob Miller’s sponsored swim. The sale of 2013 Monarchs calendars are also producing a good income for the fund and these remain on sale through the Club’s website.

The next event on the agenda for Air Fence fund raising is “An evening with Craig Cook” which takes place on Friday 29th November. More details of this very special event will follow later this week.

Basketball

Dunfermline Reign SM   64-108   Glasgow Rocks SM

Boroughmuir Blaze SM   60-63   Glasgow University SM

Stirling Knights SM   54-109   St Mirren West College Scotland SM

Cup Quarter Final Glasgow University SW   33-73   City of Edinburgh Kool Kats SW

Cup Quarter Final Clark Eriksson Fury SW   90-32   Aberdeen University SW

Policing plan – Planning at Newcraighall – Toddler Time at the Cameo – The Edinburgh Reporter – Field of Light

Police Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council Community Safety staff and Fire Scotland want your help creating the next Edinburgh Local Policing Plan, so are asking people ‘What 3 priorities would you like your local Police to focus on?’

Drop in sessions are being held in libraries across the City including

• Mon 11 November  12-2pm Central Library
• Wed 13 November 2-4pm McDonald Road Library

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Councillor Maureen Child tells us that Barratt Homes has submitted a revised planning application to build 220 homes and 2 commercial units on land atNewcraighall North.  “Portobello Community Council is asking for you to give the a steer on how they might best represent local people’s views. Click on http://www.portypeople.co.uk/NewcNorth  for information and to feed back direct to them. They have a tight deadline to get a response in, so if you want to have your say at this stage, please do it as soon as you possibly can.”

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Toddler Time at the Cameo is especially designed to introduce children to the big screen, featuring 30-minute shows for pre-school children and their parents / carers. And it’s on today at 11:00am! More details here.

Admission is just £3 per child, accompanying adults free, when they become members of Toddler Time (free to join – please ask at the Box Office or call 0871 902 5747). Otherwise the usual adult matinee and child prices apply. Toddler Time is free for babies under one year old.

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We know this is a tough time of the year. Only one more payday till Christmas after all….. But here at The Edinburgh Reporter we could do with some of your help. Yes money.

We offer advertising for businesses which you can get details about over here…..

But if all of you would donate £1 to us this month then we would have enough funds to make really big changes to the way we provide your news. Could you perhaps think about it?

We will have some exciting news for you pretty soon anyway but some funds would help us enormously. We love doing what we do, but we could do with making a bit more of a living at it….:) And if you do feel able to donate, then thank you! The button is below….

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Scotland on Sunday alerted us to the fact that Bruce Munro’s Field of Light is coming to St Andrew Square next February.

We saw a light installation in a very muddy field in Bath last December and were a little disappointed then, but are pleased to see that the one coming to Edinburgh was not by the same creator.

Circuit: A Light Labyrinth was installed in the back garden of the Holburne Museum, Bath following the success of Bruce Munro’s Field of Light installation the previous year. The 2012 exhibition was created by award-winning artist Martin Richman, whose previous work includes Bristol Bridge and London 2012m, but you will see from our photo above that it was simply a string of fibre optic cables, and the torrential rain had made it difficult to walk through.

The short video below shows you that Mr Munro’s installation is quite different and looks stunning, and we are looking forward to it very much!

Bruce Munro Field of Light (Short version) from Bruce Munro on Vimeo.

The 9th edition of the EDINBURGH ART FAIR will open its door at the Corn Exchange, Edinburgh between the 15th and 17th November. This is a unique opportunity to see such a wide variety of art. 50 galleries from Scotland, the rest of the UK and Europe will present art from renowned artists as well as recent graduates working in the widest range of media including: oil painting, sculpture, printmaking and street art. The Fair is open to every one: from seasoned collector to those considering buying art for the first time and caters for all tastes and budgets. The Fair is also a great day out and a full experience. There will be artist talk, printmaking workshops, painting classes as well as demonstrations by artists. In particular a giant drawing of the Fair itself will be created before your eyes and street artists will be let loose on a wall. Families are particularly welcome at the Fair, there is a complimentary creche offering children many hands-on art activities.

A fully licensed cafe offers light meals and teas and the champagne bar operates in the main hall.

The Fair is open Friday 15th to Sunday 17th November: from 11am until 6pm (5pm on the Sunday). Tickets are £5 (£3 concession), children under 16 are free when accompanied by an adult. The Corn Exchange, 11 New Market Road, Edinburgh EH14 1RJ, is a two minute walk from Slateford station.

Submitted by Laura Gressani

Scotland score six tries in their win over Japan at Murrayfield

Scotland played Japan in the opening match of the 2013 viagogo Autumn Test series at Murrayfield and overcame, what has become, a much stronger opponent than their World ranking would suggest.

The match started well for the hosts, pinning their opponents back in their half early on and they were awarded a penalty from a scrum infringement after six minutes which Greg Laidlaw converted for the lead. The Japanese side came back strongly, however and went on an attack of their own, pushing the Scotland side back and it was only a massive tackle from, eventual Man-of-the-Match, Tim Swinson, that put paid to any further possession. From the ensuing scrum, the visitors pushed Scotland off the ball, but had, again, managed to attract the referee’s attention for foul play. The next few minutes were fairly even, with Scotland just gaining the upper hand and they were awarded another penalty, which, this time, Laidlaw rattled of the upright, but he was to come up trumps a few minutes later with a successful kick which took him to 199 points for his country and put his country ahead 6-0.

The following period of play had both sides on the attack and defence with Japan almost exploiting an overlap due to, what appeared to be, a serious injury to Ryan Grant. It was at this point that some the crowd showed their ‘football credentials’ as they started to whistle and boo because the Japanese wouldn’t kick the ball dead to stop the match! Strange game that football…. But, it was to be the hosts who scored the opening try. The pack took the ball up the centre of the pitch, coming to within a few metres of the line, but quick recycling from Laidlaw had the ball out wide to Tommy Seymour, who beat his man on the outside to go over in the corner for his debut International try in only his third match for Scotland. Laidlaw missed the conversion, but the Scots now had an 11-0 lead. Japan went on the offensive straight from the kick-off and drove and ran the ball up the Scot’s five-metre line before being stopped. The ref, however was playing a penalty advantage and the visitor’s full back, Ayumu Goromaru, scored to put them on the board with three points. With less than five minutes to go in the half, it was Scotland’s turn to gain the upper hand. A pass to Nick De Luca in heavy traffic appeared to put the Edinburgh player through a gap in the defence and he broke through and gained 20 metres or so. A last ditch tackle from two defenders brought him down, but the ball ended up with Sean Lamont who powered through to score next to the posts. Or had he? Referee JP Doyle was alerted to a possible obstruction at the initial pass and detailed analysis of the footage by the TMO showed this to be the case. No try, penalty to Japan. That more or less ended the half with the score at a, non too comfortable, 11-3.

The second half started badly for the Scots as, almost from the kick off, Japan were awarded an early penalty which scrum half, Fumiaki Tanaka, took quickly giving the visitors a quick advantage, An advantage which they exploited to the full, the sudden start, and quick passing, giving wing, Kenki Fukuoka, a clear run in to the touch down. Goromaru scored the conversion and the score was now, an even more uncomfortable, 11-10. It was now the home side’s turn to score from the restart. Lamont managed to bat the ball back from the kick off, puting the Scot’s on the front foot, which they used to blast up the middle. setting up a ruck a couple of metres out from the line, Laidlaw gathered the ball and seeing that there was a ‘Laidlaw’ sized gap in the defence, dived under the tackle to score his try and take his Scotland points tally to 203 – a tremendous milestone. He then scored the conversion to pull the home side two scores clear at 18-10.

And then deja-vu broke out all over again, as the Japanese played a repeat of their opening try to score through the same combination of players, with a little more resistance this time, to draw them up to within a point once more. But that was to be the last they saw of the score board as Scotland exerted their growing dominance on the match scoring a further four tries to put the match out of sight. The first of these came from the backs less than two minutes after the Japanese try. Another restart ball win and drive gave the Scot’s a scrum on the left. Quick ball had the defence scrambling across to, ultimately, fail to stop Seymour from scoring his second try of the match, again in the right corner. Laidlaw missed this kick as well, but the score was 23-17 with 25 minutes left. Next try was started from a ruck. Kelly Brown carried the ball up to within five metres of the line, but the Japanese infringed, which earned No. 8 Ryu Koliniasi Holani a yellow. Winning ball, the Scots then promptly lost it, and the visitors cleared. But, they cleared to a side with their tails up and the ball was run straight back. The backs had the first go and were soon up to near the line. A couple of plays later, Alistair Dickinson was passed the ball in front of the posts and he was off, dragging two opponents with him to score Scotland’s fourth try under the posts. Laidlaw couldn’t miss this one and the score was now a healthy 30-17 with still 15 minutes left on the clock.

The fifth try was scored by sub, Duncan Weir, after less than five minutes of him coming on the pitch. Again the ball was carried up to the 22 by the backs, and Sean Maitland ran the ball up the line, only to be tackled by three defenders. He released the ball ‘into the wild’, but a defender got in the way and knocked the ball away. The loose ball was then pounced on by Weir who slid over in the corner for the try. Again, the ‘was-it-a-try’ committee had a wee chat, but this time the decision went in favour of Scotland and with Laidlaw having  a bad-ish day at the office, and missing the kick, the score was now 35-17. The sixth and last try was to be another scrambled affair. Following a good bit of possession and play by the visitors, Lamont chased a cleared ball into the 22. However he was tackled off the ball, which resulted in a yellow card for Goromaru. From the line out win, the rolling maul was stopped, but again, quick thinking by the Scots saw new scrum half, Henry Pyrgos, chip the ball over the pile up for Lamont to run onto. One of the defenders got to the ball first but just failed to touch the ball down, leaving Lamont no option, but to do it for him. Another conflab resulted in another try, and with just a minute or so left, Weir converted to take the final score up to an impressive 42-17 for Scotland.

Memories of the 100-7 win in Perth 10 years ago were suppressed by the Scotland management team well in advance as the Japanese have come a very long way since then. They currently lie 15th in the IRB rankings and have a couple of players playing Super Rugby in the Southern Hemisphere. However, nothing should take away from, what was, a mighty impressive performance – albeit with a couple of defensive glitches – by a Scottish side in the process of being built for the forthcoming World Cup in 2015, which in sporting terms, is just around the corner…..

On a final note, there was a young man in the crowd who celebrated his 10th Birthday on the day up in Perth. He celebrated his 20th at Murrayfield. Happy Birthday, Allyn.

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

A bike loan scheme is making it easier for pupils to receive on-road cycle training in schools in Edinburgh.

Fresh from their success at the ECDX tournament in Philadelphia last year, Auld Reekie Roller Girls’ Twisted Thistles team has been invited to play in ‘The Big O’, a major derby tournament held annually on the West Coast of the USA. This year it’s taking place on 2 – 4th May, and Auld Reekie will be winging their way to take on some of the finest teams in America!

The Big O, hosted by the Emerald City Roller Girls of Eugene, Oregon [link: http://www.thebigotournament.com/about.html], is an annual flat track roller derby invitational tournament featuring women’s, men’s and junior roller derby. Established in 2012, last year’s tournament featured teams travelling from as far afield as Australia, Canada and the UK. A WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby Association) approved event, the scores will influence Auld Reekie’s place in the global rankings. Currently ranked number 3 in Europe and 103 in the world, this tournament will be a vital opportunity for Auld Reekie to take on some of the USA’s toughest teams, gain some valuable experience and raise their profile in the worldwide roller derby community.

The bouts will be streamed live on the internet, meaning Auld Reekie’s loyal supporters can cheer their team from afar, and Scotland can get behind one of their most successful sporting exports.

Auld Reekie took the USA by storm at ECDX this year, winning all three of their sanctioned bouts and coming out of the blue to surprise the American roller derby community with their success. Can they do it again in 2014 and – along with Glasgow Roller Derby – raise Scotland’s profile as a major presence in the international roller derby scene?

Roller derby is an all-female sport that involves teams competing on an oval track in a series of ‘jams’ – two minute periods that see teams of five players each battling to score points. During each jam, one player on each team is designated as the ‘jammer’ who scores a point for every member of the opposing team she passes.

The sport requires a punishing array of agile and athletic skills, from zig-zag blocking moves to body slams to all-out speed-skating. To perfect these manoeuvres, skaters commit to several hours of practice every week, paying for gear and practice space out of their own pockets.

While it has its roots in sports-entertainment-style exhibition bouts going back as far as the 1930s, modern roller derby has reinvigorated the game with a grass-roots DIY ethos that puts the passion for athleticism front-and-centre.

The trend finally reached Edinburgh in 2008, when a small group of women founded the Auld Reekie Roller Girls. The Edinburgh league now averages over 80 skaters, and is run purely on the volunteer efforts of its members. ARRG became full members of the Women’s’ Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) in 2011.

Are you a derby skater who is aiming high and wants to improve their skills? Want to play in America yourself some day? Some of Auld Reekie’s finest skaters will be coaching at the ‘School of ARRG Knocks 2 – Even ARRGER!!!’ roller derby bootcamp in Edinburgh on Saturday 23^rd November. Take advantage of the expertise on offer and come along!

http://arrg.co.uk/events/event/school-of-arrg-knocks-2-even-arrger/

 Remembrance Day  marked today in Edinburgh and across the Commonwealth

This morning many people will gather at services across the UK and the Commonwealth to mark Remembrance Day.

The Lord Lieutenant and Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, The Rt Hon Donald Wilson will lead his wreath laying party to join the Remembrance Parade for a short open air ceremony at the City Chambers with Armed Services and official figures including Scotland’s First Minister.

The Presiding Officer, the Rt Hon Tricia Marwick MSP, will lay a wreath on behalf of the Scottish Parliament at the Royal British Legion Scotland’s Edinburgh Parade and Service of Remembrance today at Edinburgh City Chambers. Following this, she will also attend the church service at St Giles Cathedral.

The Gun will be fired from Edinburgh Castle and a two minute silence will be observed, marking the ending of the anniversary of the First World War.

The Royal British Legion Scotland Remembrance Day parade of veterans, serving military detachments and cadets will begin at St Giles Street and will march to the Stone of Remembrance at the City Chambers where it will be met by official figures including the Lord Lieutenant and the First Minister.

The Lord Lieutenant and the First Minister will take part in the Act of Remembrance and wreath laying ceremony along with Lieutenant General Sir Alistair Irwin, KCB, CBE, MA, National President of The Royal British Legion Scotland, and the Secretary of State for Scotland Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP. The parade and ceremony will be followed by a Service of Remembrance at St Giles Cathedral.

The Edinburgh Parade is one of over thirty events across Scotland on Remembrance Sunday organised by hundreds of volunteers for the Royal British Legion Scotland.

Kevin Gray MM, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal British Legion Scotland said:-“On Remembrance Sunday, our heartfelt tribute will be paid to every single serviceman and woman that has fought and died to keep us safe. On this momentous day our thoughts will also be with those who still serve in our Armed Forces and all their loved ones. As we approach the centenary of the start of World War I in 2014 we are reminded especially of all those who lost their life in that conflict.

“We organise events around Scotland for Remembrance Sunday giving people the chance to pay their respects. Whether it’s in a moment of quiet reflection at a ceremony or an official parade, we can all join together to show our immense gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made on our behalf by so many brave men and women.”

The Royal British Legion Scotland plays a lead role in organising Remembrance events across Scotland and helping to preserve Scottish war memorials. The charity also works with schools to educate children about Remembrance.

This year the Royal British Legion Scotland has launched a competition for primary schools to encourage them to research the stories behind the names on their local war memorial.  The charity also launched the Voices of Veterans campaign to preserve stories of ex servicemen and women and their families in the lead up to the centenary of the start of World War One.

• Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the end of  World War I on that date in 1918.
• King George V specially dedicated this day in 1919 when he held the first remembrance day service in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.
• Poppies became a symbol for Remembrance Day as a result of the poem Flanders Fields.
• Two minutes silence is also observed on 11 November itself at 11 am.
• Scottish Poppy wreaths are made at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh set up in 1926.

Photos of the Garden of Remembrance in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens by John Preece available online at  http://www.photoboxgallery.com/jlp-photography

SPFL, Saturday 9 November 2013 – Pittodrie

Not too long ago, Aberdeen couldn’t score against Hearts, far less win a game against them. Today, some bookmakers were offering odds of 6/1 for a Hearts win – a sure sign that the times they-are-a-changing. As events in the Granite City on Saturday afternoon proved, however, the bookies got this one completely wrong.

Hearts have struggled badly in the league of late and only the most dyed-in-the-wool Jambo heading to Pittodrie could have held much hope of seeing their team take anything from high-flying Aberdeen who are second in the SPFL and are League Cup semi-finalists. However, Gary Locke’s youngsters showed a maturity which belied their status by coming from behind to record their first SPFL win away from Tynecastle this season – and their first league win since they last played Aberdeen in Gorgie in August.

Despite losing at home to St. Johnstone last Saturday, Hearts manager Gary Locke went with the same starting eleven, having said pre-match that he had ‘had words with one or two of the youngsters during the week’. Whatever the former full back said to his charges seemed to have had an effect as Hearts created two early chances. After 17 minutes, good work from Kevin McHattie found Ryan Stevenson at the back post but the former Ayr United man fired his effort straight at Dons keeper Langfield and a golden chance was gone. Shortly after, Jamie Walker unleashed a ferocious shot from 20 yards and while his strike on goal had plenty power, it was, again, straight at the Aberdeen custodian. Nonetheless, this was a promising start for Hearts, albeit it was the home side who enjoyed most of the possession.

Aberdeen were dealt a blow when influential midfielder Wilo Flood went off injured after 23 minutes to be replaced by his former Dundee United colleague Barry Robson. The former Celtic player’s impact was soon felt as, three minutes later, his corner kick found McGinn who fired the ball past Hearts keeper Jamie MacDonald for the opening goal. The huge travelling support collectively shook their heads, having witnessed this scenario so many times already this season.
Towards the end of the first half, there were loud claims for a penalty from the Aberdeen players and fans alike when Zola’s shot appeared to be blocked on the goal line by Dylan McGowan. Referee Iain Brines refuse to consider the home pleas for a spot kick but, ironically, he did award one minutes later when Hearts Callum Paterson was penalised for hand ball inside the penalty box – the irony being Paterson certainly didn’t handle the ball deliberately and it seemed less of a penalty kick than the one the referee didn’t give. McGinn stepped up and as the home support anticipated their team doubling their lead going into half time, they reckoned without Hearts keeper Jamie MacDonald, who pushed McGinn’s effort past the post. Although the Dons led 1-0 at half-time and felt, perhaps, they should have been further ahead, Hearts had given a decent account of themselves and were far from out of the game.

Aberdeen, who demolished Partick Thistle 4-0 on Monday evening, started the second half seeking another goal but the game changed soon after the re-start when the highly combative Robson, having already been booked in the first half, lunged in on Jason Holt and was sent off by referee Brines. Against ten men, Hearts sensed their chance to get back into the game and wasted little time in doing so.

In 66 minutes, Jamie Walker, having come close moments earlier, jinked into the Aberdeen defence and pushed the ball beyond the despairing Langfield to level the score at 1-1. Joy among the always magnificent Hearts support.

Aberdeen’s Scott Vernon was causing the Hearts defence more than a few anxious moments and his header from a Hayes cross with 20 minutes left almost put the home side back in front. Two minutes later and a goal did come – and it was for Edinburgh’s finest. The ever dangerous Jamie Walker raced past the Aberdeen defence and delivered a fine cross for Callum Paterson to fire home and put the Jambos ahead at 2-1.

The home side were pressing for the equaliser with Hearts content to hit on the break, something they did with almost devastating effect four minutes from time when that man Walker delivered another teasing cross into the Aberdeen penalty box which fell perfectly for Paterson whose first time volley flew into the crowd.

Those Hearts supporters of a pessimistic nature hoped their team wouldn’t rue that opportunity as Aberdeen stormed forward in search of the equaliser. They needn’t have worried – in stoppage time, Hearts Ryan Stevenson surged forward fully 30 yards before firing an unstoppable effort past Langfield to seal a remarkable victory for the Jam Tarts. The game ended with a score line few would have predicted two hours earlier – Aberdeen 1 Hearts 3.

At the final whistle, the Hearts players celebrated with the huge travelling support who, yet again, had given their team magnificent backing. It was, without doubt, Hearts best result of the season thus far and with Kilmarnock losing, meant the gap at the bottom of the SPFL is now 13 points. Still a considerable one, but one which, following this hugely impressive victory, is one which Hearts fans will still feel can be addressed.

Hearts manager Gary Locke was full of praise for his players afterwards. “The players have responded to last week’s criticism and every Hearts player out there was fantastic. The effort was superb and we’re delighted to finally get a result our play deserved.”

They say confidence is all important in football. A pity, then, that Hearts now have to wait a fortnight until their next SPFL game – the youngsters would take on Ross County tomorrow if they could.

Those writing Hearts’ obituary – including, it must be said, this writer – may, on the basis of this showing, need to have a rethink.

Aberdeen: Langfield; Jack; Considine; Anderson; Hector; Reynolds; Hayes; Flood; Zola; Pawlett; McGinn.

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

Referee: Iain Brines

Att: 13,940

Top man: Unquestionably, Jamie Walker who ran the Aberdeen defence ragged at times.

The enormity of the task facing Terry Butcher both on and off the pitch became apparent yesterday as he sat in the West Stand along with his wife and agent Jim McArthur watching his Inverness Caledonian Thistle team outplay a Hibs side lacking in confidence in front of a stadium less than half full, or judging by the mood of the supporters, more than half empty.

Most observers assumed that the former England captain would stay away from the ground given the circumstances, so there was an air of excitement in the concourse just before 2pm when he turned up. When asked about his position, he initially responded by saying that he was a neutral before correcting himself and pointing out that he was still the Inverness manager.

BBC tweeted that he would watch the game from the directors box and all the cameras were focused there, but just ahead of kick off, he emerged from the direction of the players’ lounge accompanied by Hibs director Gary O’Hagan who showed him to his seat then sat strategically at the end of the row to prevent the press and supporters getting access to him.

Butcher showed no emotion when Inverness scored twice within a few minutes then created chance after chance whilst the Hibs players seemed unable to trouble their opposite numbers.

The 401 Caley fans who made to long trip to the capital however launched into a rendition of ‘Butcher Butcher what’s the score’ then the Hibs fans responded briefly with a subdued version of ‘Terry Butcher’s Green and White Army.’

Had Pat Fenlon still been in charge, fury would have rained down from the stands, however the Hibs fans could barely muster a half time ‘boo’ as the teams left the pitch.

Interim manager Jimmy Nicholl made two half time changes, bringing on attackers Rowan Vine and Abdellah Zoubir to replace the off-form Ryan McGivern and Tom Taiwo, but the second period continued in the same vain as the first, with the Highlanders always looking the more likely to score.

Throughout the second half the Caley fans sang ‘Oh Inverness is wonderful’ which must have given Butcher food for thought as thousands of Hibs fans left early.

After the game, no-one from Hibs would commit to a timescale or even confirm whether the two chairmen had discussed compensation, although Jimmy Nicholl seemed in no doubt that Butcher would be the new manager sooner rather than later.

After the game he said: “For a team that haven’t been taking their chances in the last two or three games, the last thing we needed was to be two down after 20 minutes, so it was always going to be difficult. All we were hoping for in the second half was to show a bit of character and a bit of commitment to see if we could turn things around. There is not much more that you can ask. If they had made it 2-1 would that have made a difference to the game and the outcome? I don’t know, but they are just lacking a wee bit of belief and a bit of confidence and to be two down after 20 minutes against a good team and an organised team who go about their job properly, it was always going to be difficult.”

When asked whether he thought that this would be his last game, Nicholl replied “God aye. I cleared my desk yesterday and took my boots in case somebody else nabs them. I expect things to happen over the weekend but until I get a phone call I’ll have to be in on Monday morning.”

Ironically, Nicholl played a major part in Butcher’s return to the game following an unsuccessful period as a player / manager at both Coventry City and Sunderland as he explained.

“He came back up to Scotland and had a hotel in Bridge of Allan. He’s a great big fella and the most humble man. He wrote me a letter so say that of a position ever comes up will you consider me?  I phoned him and said ‘What are you doing writing?’ Me and Alex Smith were at Raith Rovers and John Brownlie was looking after the youth team. I said to the directors at the time that I would love to have him. John Brownlie and big Terry Butcher would have had the kids in the palm of their hands. Brilliant. I wanted him in but there was nothing I could do financially. He asked if I got my petrol paid for and I said ‘Aye’ so he said if we filled his motor up, £50 per week, he would come in and work and that’s what he did. Where he’s got to now, he has worked for it. People said that he lived off his legendary status in England but it’s not like that at all, he just mucks in does what he does. It was a great period. He’s a big football man and I am glad things have worked out for him. He had a bad time in England and now he is having a good time, but he’s going to have to prove that he is the right man to come in here and has what it takes to turn things around here and get them going.

“We didn’t know he was sitting in the stand today and before the game I said to the players, ‘listen you are on a 90 minute audition, it’s like being on the X factor, so go and prove that you are good enough to be in his plans for the future and if big Terry’s not here you are playing in front of the staff so be fully committed and go and win the game and give yourself an opportunity to be in his thoughts for the future.’

“You have to go and do it for yourself. You can’t wait for older ones to make it happen and to be in the position we are in, with James (Collins) coming back it’s the last thing you want to lose two quick goals, Confidence isn’t great and we are not taking out chances. Whenever confidence is high, I’ve seen myself when we were 1-0 or 2-0 down and I’ve said to myself we’ll be all right because I know what’s on the dressing room and we could get back to 2-2 or even go on and win it, but we are not like that at this minute because we are not taking chances or playing with 100% confidence.

“I hate that, because you would think we were bottom or second bottom of the league but there are times when players are thinking ‘I’m going to pass that ball forward and he’s looking and looking then thinks oh no and he comes out the other side and delivers a wee square pass, but they have got to keep doing the right things and I just hate it when they are frightened to make mistakes but because of the circumstances of the crowd they don’t do it, but they are a wee bit fragile at the minute.”

Hibs’ miserable run of form continued as two early goals from visitors Inverness saw the Easter Road side soundly beaten in a performance that would have shown Terry Butcher just exactly how much work needs to be done should he be confirmed as the next manager. Butcher took in the game from the west stand, all but confirming the rumours, but even his absence in the dugout couldn’t dishearten his Inverness side who were composed, clinical and comfortable in their win.

The home side got off to a bad start when James Collins gave Graeme Shinnie a clumsy push in the box to give Inverness a penalty after just 14 minutes. Nick Ross stepped up, and despite keeper Ben Williams’ prowess at saving penalties, he could only get a slight touch to it which wasn’t enough to keep his side from going 1-0 down. Hibs’ misery was compounded only a few minutes later as Inverness doubled their advantage with a well-worked goal involving Shinnie and Billy McKay. Shinnie threaded the ball through to the on-form striker who rounded Williams and slotted the ball home to make it 2-0.

It was a hammer blow for Hibs, and the two goal advantage meant that Inverness could control the rest of the game with ease. Despite some early shaky moments from Inverness keeper Dean Brill, who was struggling to deal with backpasses, the home side never looked capable of causing the Inverness defence any problems, and most of the attacks from the Easter Road side fizzled out before they could threaten the goal.

Inverness could have made it three when Alan Maybury slid in to block a cross, almost scoring an own-goal. Fortunately for the home side, the ball came off the post and bobbled along the line where Williams was able to collect it.

The second half saw two changes for Hibs, with Tom Taiwo and Ryan McGivern being replaced by Abdellah Zoubir and Rowan Vine. The changes saw a brief spell in which Hibs played with more confidence, but they still failed to trouble the visitors and were restricted to shots from distance. The closest Hibs came to scoring was through Collins, whose header was cleared off the line by the impressive Shinnie, but ultimately Inverness proved too strong to break down.

Speaking after the game, caretaker manager Jimmy Nicholl said:- “For a team that haven’t been taking their chances in the last two or three games, the last thing we needed was to be two down after 20 minutes, so it was always going to be difficult. All we were hoping for in the second half was to show a bit of character and a bit of commitment to see if we could turn things around. There is not much more that you can ask. They are just lacking a wee bit of belief and a bit of confidence and to be two down after 20 minutes against a good team and an organised team who go about their job properly, it was always going to be difficult.”

When asked whether he thought that this would be his last game, Nicholl replied:- “God aye. I cleared my desk yesterday and took my boots in case somebody else nabs them. I expect things to happen over the weekend but until I get a phone call I’ll have to be in on Monday morning.”

Inverness will head back to the Highlands with all three points and an impressive performance, but it seems certain that Terry Butcher will remain at Easter Road, knowing he will have his work cut out for him at his new club.

Hibs player/coach Alan Maybury has insisted it’s business as normal for Hibs as they prepare to welcome Inverness Caledonian Thistle to Easter Road this afternoon. With speculation surrounding the vacant manager’s position at Easter Road, and Inverness boss Terry Butcher regarded as firm favourite to take Pat Fenlon’s place, there is an extra layer of intrigue about the match this afternoon.

Maybury acknowledged that the timing was a strange coincidence, but was adamant that the home side are focused on the match and not the manager:- “Fate has thrown up that we play them and it’s a bit of a disruption for both clubs but these things are out of our hands. Jimmy [Nicholl] was told earlier in the week that he’d be in charge for this game so we’ve prepared as best as we can, as normal as we can.”

While admitting there is always a period of uncertainty when a new manager comes in, Maybury said that the players just have to get on with their own jobs:- “I’ve been through this quite a few times. Maybe for one or two of the others who haven’t it can be a bit unsettling and you start to wonder how it’s going to affect yourself. But I find you can waste a lot of time and energy worrying about things you’ve got no control over. The chairman will ultimately decide who he wants to bring in and whoever that is they’ll decide what staff he is bringing in and who’s leaving and what players are getting changed.

“It’s a little bit different facing it as part of the coaching staff rather than a player. When Pat left we tried to galvanise and see where we’d go from there – it was more that than worrying for myself. Whoever comes in will have their own ideas and they’ll quickly make an assessment of what they want and don’t want here. So it’s been more trying to rally round with Jimmy and get our heads together and see what we’re going to do this week and how we go on from here and try to keep it as normal as possible.”

Longest-serving player Lewis Stevenson, who has seen seven managers come and go in his time at Easter Road, echoed Maybury’s thoughts:- “It probably gets harder to deal with this situation when a manager leaves. When I was younger I was probably more blase and I just got on with it. To be honest, it’s all I’ve known, I went from year to year with a new manager. I know what you’ve got to do, you’ve just got to be yourself, work hard and make sure you’re in the manager’s plans. If not, you have to fight your way in.

“Players do talk about the next manager, it’s the natural thing to do, but you can’t really do anything until the new manager’s in place and you see what he’s actually like. We can’t really do anything until he comes in, and then we can take things from there.”

With Terry Butcher tipped to be the next man in charge, Stevenson pointed out some of the qualities of his Inverness side that Hibs could learn from:- “We know he’s done a great job at Inverness. We always hate playing against his teams – they’re always well organised, work hard and I think they do play better football than they’re given credit for.

“It would be good to play for a team that people hate playing against. Easter Road has been a place in the last few years where teams enjoy playing against us. So it would be nice if it was a place where teams didn’t like playing against us. It’s pretty much up to us to try and make it like that, and we’ll see what we can do.

“We’ve got everything in place. We’ve got a great stadium, the fan-base, the training ground – everything’s there. It’s maybe just the team that people are saying is not in place. Hopefully we can change that, but I do feel we’ve got a good enough squad to be competing higher up the league. It’s easy saying it, we just need to go out and do it.”

Meanwhile, Hibs striker Rowan Vine faces disciplinary action after being charged with “offensive comments on Twitter suggesting the use of violence”. Vine, who was involved in a spat with Celtic manager Neil Lennon on the social networking site last month, has until 15th November to respond, with the hearing date set for 28th November.

How to deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for a happy winter season

The nights are drawing in, and it’s only a few days since the clocks changed. While some of us are starting to count down to Christmas, for others it’s the start of an unhappy time of a seasonal depression called SAD.

“Many of us feel a bit less energetic during the winter months which is often called winter depression”, said Professor Ewan Gillon, Clinical Director of First Psychology Scotland.

“But its more severe form, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), can lead to strong symptoms of depression and some people may even need professional help. NHS figures show that about two million people are affected in the UK.

“For the majority of us, though, a number of subtle lifestyle changes will help get you through the darker months more happily.”

First Psychology’s practitioners have compiled their top five tips to combat winter depression:-

1.Make time for daylight: spend your lunch hour outdoors or make time for an afternoon walk to ensure you spend some time in daylight.

2. Keep up any regular exercise you do and eat well: while it’s tempting to curl up in front of a fire with a chocolate bar, exercise helps release endorphins which brighten your mood. If possible, exercise outdoors.

3. Work in a well-lit environment such as close to a window, allowing you to enjoy as much daylight as possible.

4. Talk to family and friends: letting those close to you know what is happening to you allows you to build a support network. Making time to meet friends also helps lighten your mood.

5. Book a cheeky week away in the sun or consider re-decorating your home in bright colours which reflect a lot of light

“People with more severe symptoms may find light therapy helpful, and placing a specialist daylight lamp on your desk can make a huge difference to your mood”, explains Ewan Gillon.

“It’s also worth reminding yourself that the days start to lengthen right after Christmas and Spring is just around the corner.”

For more information on low mood and depression, visit www.edinburghtherapy.co.uk.

Festival of Remembrance – Film in Portobello – Cleaning up the Water of Leith – Film in Balerno – Traverse looking for a Writer in Residence

Tonight at the Usher Hall there is the official Festival of Remembrance featuring the Royal Marines Corps of Drums, Jubilo Choir and the Phoenix Band.

Tickets may still be available here.

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This evening you could go and watch a film in Portobello.

Portobello Open Door is showing the film Local Hero (PG) at The Wash House community centre, 3 Adelphi Grove this  evening 9 November at 7:00pm.  Watch out for the Northern Lights!

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Tomorrow morning you could go out to help clean up the Water of Leith

Sunday 10th November 2013. 10AM – 12.30PM – Clean-up and path work between Warriston Viaduct and Redbrae’s Meet at CEC car park in St Marks Park (near Craigroyston FC club house) off Warriston Road (Just before the single lane bridge that goes over the Cannonmills cycle track).  Free Parking.    See map on reverse or Streetmap Link.

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In Balerno on 30 November they are showing Angel’s Share which features the real life whisky expert Charlie MacLean at Balerno Village Screen.

More details here.

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The Traverse Theatre is looking for an artist in residence for next year.

The Fellow will be a professional playwright with at least two previous professional productions. The tenure of the Fellowship will be between 6 and 10 months, by agreement, with the intention that the playwright will submit a complete play to the Traverse at the end of 2014. During the period of the fellowship the playwright will have access to dramaturgical support from the Traverse’s Artistic team and we hope would also play a part in the life of the theatre.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a cover letter outlining why they would like to take up this Fellowship and how it will be of benefit to them and their writing by 10 am on Monday, 25 November 2013.  Interviews will be held on Friday 6 December at IASH.

More details here…

Small businesses, infrastructure experts and politicians have criticised a Scottish Government plan to revitalise town centres.

The ‘Town Centre Action Plan’ was launched by Local Government Minister Derek Mackay yesterday, and it promises a ‘Town Centre First Principle’ with £2m funding to turn empty properties into affordable housing, and tax cuts for pubs, hotels and restaurants.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Mackay said:- “The Scottish Government is determined that our town centres should be vibrant, attractive and safe places where local people and visitors alike want to spend their time and money.”

However, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Scotland voiced frustration with the plans. Colin Borland, head of external affairs at FSB Scotland, said he was “underwhelmed” and disappointed at the “vague” proposals put forward.

Derek Halden, an infrastructure consultant who conducted research for Transport Scotland’s ‘Smarter Choices, Smarter Places’ project, expressed disappointment the plan did not include any immediate investment in paths and streets. He continued:-“The paths to the shops, the street furniture like benches, pedestrian crossings, cycle parking, new paving and public art projects are just a few of the things that would make accessing town centres easier and more pleasant.”

“Until people have safe pleasant routes to their local centres they will just jump into their car and go elsewhere, which does nothing to reinvigorate local town centres,” said Mr Halden.

His research shows this investment could save Scots £279m each year in transport costs, money which could be spent in local shops and businesses.

MSPs have also been critical. Green MSP Alison Johnstone said:-“The sums of money being set aside are pitiful and will not give local businesses and residents confidence. We need to see support for local champions who can get things done, not a new title for a minister in Edinburgh.”

Meanwhile, Conservative finance spokesman Gavin Brown said that the £2m pledged, when shared across the whole of Scotland, amounts to just £65,000 for each local authority.

Mr Brown said that while the SNP were announcing plans to “make it look like they’re doing a lot about town centres,” they were also shutting police stations and courts.

“They’ve taken a lot of actions in the last months that actually make it tougher for town centres.”

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following bogus workman incidents in the Drylaw and Craigleith area.

The most recent incident happened around 10.30am on Thursday 7th November.  The 78-year-old victim was in her home address at Queens Road, when the male suspect called there offering to carry out gardening work.  The offer was repeatedly declined, however the suspect managed to gain entry to the house where he was later disturbed and fled the scene empty handed.

The other incidents happened the previous day (Wednesday 6th November) in the Drylaw area.  The first two incidents happened around 1pm in Easter Drylaw Avenue and Easter Drylaw Gardens respectively, again gardening work was offered.  The residents who were approached declined the offer; however during one attempt the suspect falsely told the victim that their gardening work, which is carried out by the council, had been withdrawn.

The later incident happened around 3.15pm at West Pilton Drive.

The suspect is described as white, late-thirties or early-forties; around 5ft 10inches, tall, slim build, short dark hair, of tidy appearance with an Irish accent.  He was wearing a white sweatshirt with navy horizontal stripes, navy coloured jeans, carrying a dark brown shoulder bag.

Detective Constable Ben Leathes from Operation Aristotle, which tackles bogus callers in the Capital said: “The elderly victim has been left very upset that the man had entered her home.

“Bogus workmen target vulnerable members of our community and utilise various methods of deception to do so.

Members of the public are reminded never to allow a caller into their home unless entirely certain of their identity.  If you have any doubts, do not let them in and contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone requiring maintenance or repair work for their home should only use a company or individual whom they trust and never hand over money to anyone who cold-calls at your door.

“Neighbours and family of vulnerable people are also asked to be vigilant for suspicious people in their area and report any concerns for a member of the community to police immediately.

“Anyone wishing advice on crime prevention can dial 101 or contact their local policing team.”

On the 30^th anniversary of his death the Institut français put on a special evening of film and food to celebrate the hero of French comedy Louis de Funès on Thursday 14 November 2013, as part of the 21^st French Film Festival.

The popular French actor of Spanish origin is one of the giants of Gallic comedy alongside Bourvil and Fernandel. His acting style is remembered for its high-energy performance and a wide range of facial expressions that earned him the nickname ‘the man with 40 faces a minute’.

For this special tribute, the Institut français offers to discover or re-discover Claude Autant-Lara’s classic wartime comedy La Traversée de Paris (1956). In one of his first significant role, Louis de Funes plays Jambier, the penny pinching butcher to whom the two heroes Bourvil and Jean Gabin must deliver their precious suitcases.

There is no good French celebration without food so the screening will be followed by a buffet of charcuteries, terrines and wine, served in suitcases, of course.

Written by Marcel Aymée, La Traversée de Paris plays the German occupation for slapstick comedy. The film begins with newsreel footage of the Nazis marching down the Champs-Élysées and ends with the city’s liberation. In between, the odd couple Gabin and Bourvil, who have met by chance in a bar, struggle to move their contraband pork meat sneaked in four suitcases – fending off an assortment of dogs, drunks, and cops.

The French Film Festival tribute to Louis de Funes also features a UK premiere in Edinburgh, London and Glasgow to the documentary Louis de Funès Forever, directed by Gregory Monro and Catherine Benazeth who will attend. There will also be a screening of the classic La folie des grandeurs (Delusions of Grandeur) in London (Sun 17 Nov).

LA TRAVERSÉE DE PARIS

Screening & celebratory banquet

Thursday 14 November 2013, 6.00pm

Institut francais d’Ecosse

13 Randolph crescent Edinburgh EH3 7TT

Telephone: 0131 225 5366

TICKETS: £15 / £13

The Great Tapestry of Scotland, the massive, 143-metre long embroidery project, which depicts the history of our country in 160 panels, caught the public imagination when it went on show in the Scottish Parliament during September, where it was viewed by almost 50,000 visitors.

For those who missed the exhibition in the summer, The Great Tapestry of Scotland can currently be viewed in its entirety at Cockenzie House and Gardens in East Lothian (exhibition running daily until 8 December 2013). But for two days in November, four of the panels will be missing – when they will be displayed in an effort to raise funds and awareness at an annual art exhibition in aid of Cancer Research at Adam House in the Cowgate.

Two of the panels on temporary loan to the art exhibition are completely new to the project as they were not ready by the time of the launch at Holyrood.

One of these depicts Ninian at Whithorn c400 AD and the other, the whaling industry which, between 1909 and 1965 was commanded from Leith Harbour (named after Edinburgh’s port) a whaling station on the northeast coast of South Georgia (near the Falkland Islands) established and operated by the famous Edinburgh-based company, Christian Salvesen Ltd.

Of the other two panels one is by the “Edinburgh Tenners” which depicts the era following the ice age when herds of reindeer, wild horses and other species migrated north to what is now Scotland, which by circa 8,500 BC was covered by wildwood in a vast green canopy. Dwarf willow was first, then came aspen, birch, pine, hazel, elm,oak, and finally lime. Under the dappled shade of the greenwood, animals browsed; red and roe deer, the huge wild cattle known as aurochs, wild boar and elk, and predators such as bears, wolves and lynx – and human beings. The streams swam with fish and in the temperate jungle that was Scotland, there will have been years when the hunting and gathering was good.

The ‘Edinburgh Tenners’ actually consist of 13 females, and they are so-called because all reside in the EH10 postal district of the capital.

The other panel depicts Dundee in its heyday as the world centre of ‘jute, jam and journalism’.

This year’s exhibition is being sponsored by the law firm, Blackadders, whose Edinburgh office is in Rutland Square. All four panels – and other works of art – will be available to view to the public on Tuesday & Wednesday 12th & 13th November from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland was the brainchild of the best-selling author, Alexander McCall Smith, the historian Alistair Moffat and the artist Andrew Crummy. It was created on linen produced by Peter Greig & Co of Kirkcaldy which is Scotland’s only remaining linen manufacturer while the stitching required over 300 miles of woollen yarns from the English manufacturer, Appletons.

Photos ©Alex Hewitt http://www.alexhewitt.co.uk

Scotland’s first national arts strategy for young people launched today

Youth arts to receive £5million over next two years

Time To Shine, Scotland’s arts strategy for young people aged 0–25, was launched today by Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs and Janet Archer, Chief Executive, Creative Scotland.

The strategy – which is centred around the three key themes of creating and sustaining engagement; nurturing potential and talent; and developing infrastructure and support – sets out a vision and key recommendations to enable Scotland’s children and young people to flourish and achieve, in and through the arts and creativity.

At the launch, it was announced that youth arts in Scotland will benefit from £5m new funding from Scottish Government over the next two years and that this funding will support initiatives based on key objectives of the strategy. The initiatives are:

A major new open fund for organisations to develop new routes for young people to participate in and access arts and creative activity. Applications to the fund will open early in the New Year, via the Creative Scotland website.

The development of a new national digital platform to showcase and connect young people engaged in youth arts activity

The establishment of a National Youth Advisory Group (NYAG). A group of young representatives from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland will be tasked with making recommendations on the make-up and role of the NYAG, working in partnership with Creative Scotland

Going forwards, individual organisations will implement additional initiatives based on objectives in the strategy, with all work co-ordinated by a new, soon to be established youth arts programme management team.

The full strategy and accompanying documentation can be accessed here.

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, said:-“The launch of Scotland’s first ever youth arts strategy is an exciting moment. At its heart, the strategy promotes the real benefits and value culture can have on the development of our young people and our communities.
“The Scottish Government recognises the positive impact that arts and creativity can have and the strategy will, for the first time, provide strategic direction, vision and resources so that we can engage and inspire a whole new generation. Time to Shine builds on the well-established links between culture, education, youth employment and personal development.
“It is not only about providing enhanced access opportunities for all of Scotland’s young people but it goes further to support meaningful career pathways for our talent of the future; be it on stage, the screen, behind the scenes or in our world-leading creative industries.
“Perhaps most importantly of all, our aim is that this engagement with culture will nurture personal qualities that will help our young people to grow confidently as citizens and towards realising their ambitions, wherever they lie in the arts or elsewhere.”
Janet Archer, Chief Executive, Creative Scotland, said:

“Today’s launch of Time To Shine follows on the back of amazing work already taking place in youth arts in this country and the skills, dedication and energy of people of all ages involved throughout Scotland.

“Creative Scotland aims to ensure that this work continues and develops through the Time to Shine strategy. Putting young people at the heart of Scotland’s creative future will mean young people’s lives will continue to be enriched through engagement in arts and creative activity across Scotland.”

To read an extract of Janet Archer’s launch speech, click here.

16-year old Tom Strang from Grantown-on-Spey, who takes part in arts activity with Eden Court Theatre and is one of the young people advising on the make up of the National Youth Advisory Group, said:

“The arts give me a way to express myself through music, drama and dance. I hope that this strategy is taken on board by all arts provision providers in Scotland and reaches out to engage people who may not have had the opportunity to access the arts before. I also hope that it will lead to a future of even more high quality art being produced in Scotland.”

20 year old Jocelyn Gowans from Glasgow who works with YDance, said:-“Being involved in the arts means being part of a bigger picture, it expands your horizons. I hope this strategy will bring art forms together so that practitioners can coexist and create a world of endless imagination and inspiration for Scotland’s young people”.

Follow the conversation via #timetoshine