Danny Handling is the latest Hibs’ player to fall foul of the right midfield jinx after manager Pat Fenlon confirmed that the teenager will be missing from the squad to face St Johnstone in Perth on Saturday, whilst previously, winger Alex Harris suffered an injury against Motherwell in the opening game of the season, and Paul Cairney’s leg has been in plaster since a training ground accident in pre-season.

Speaking at the weekly press conference, Fenlon said: “That right-sided position seems to be jinxed at the moment, as we had Paul Cairney, Alex Harris and Danny Handling in there and they’ve all been injured.”

He revealed that new signing Abdellah Zoubir will definitely be in the squad although he did concede to be taken aback by the expectations of the fans who have yet to see him play, following his double against Rangers in a closed door game at the club training ground.

“It’s amazing how football works these days, as the fans haven’t seen the player yet, but they know all about him. He’ll be a great addition, and he’s a different type of player to what we have at the club. He’s a good player, and when the Hibs supporters do see him they’ll get excited by him. Zoubir has got great balance and two great feet, and his ball control and awareness and positional sense are very good. He’s also direct, and he likes to take people on and have a go and he’s really different to any of the ones that play in that position.

“When you’re looking for wide players it’s good to have someone like that, and he can play on both sides and we knew he could score goals as well. He’s chipped in with a few goals and he’s a calm finisher, not a slasher of the ball. He has good feet, and the goals he got against Rangers were both cool finishes. Zoubir can help create goals for the strikers and he’ll provide plenty of ammunition for the players that we have up front.”

“We had ten new players at our team photo, and it takes time for everything to gel. But that’s the same for a lot of clubs: there seems to be a fair bit of turnover, just by the way things are.

“It’s a strong squad, but everything can look great on paper: we’ve got to do it on the park. We have great competition and if we can get everyone fit it will give me a real headache. It’s healthy competition, with a good balance between younger ones, middle-aged players and real experience. I’m pleased with the make-up.”

“We’re on a half-decent unbeaten run. Winning games will breed confidence and help players settle in that bit quicker. We have a really good squad here, although we seem to be getting people back then lose one or two, but I am very pleased with the squad we have. We now have to kick on and make sure that, with the quality of player we have, we get ourselves into a good position in the league.

Tomorrow’s game will mean a return to Perth for Rowan Vine and Liam Craig whilst David Wotherspoon made the reverse trip to join his boyhood heroes, and Fenlon revealed that the club tried to keep him at Easter Road.

“I’m wary about St Johnstone as a whole, but David is a good player and we know lots and lots about him,” he continued.. He’s a player we tried to keep, and he decided to move on. I’m delighted he has had a good start to his career with St Johnstone because he is a fabulous professional and always worked tremendously hard. There’s a fair bit of movement in football and you often get players going back to their old clubs and playing against them. You would have to ask David why he moved on: it’s his hometown club, so maybe that is something he factored in.

“As a manager, you pick the team based on who you think will win the game. Very, very few players stay at one club for their whole career and most players know what playing against their former club is about, whether you leave on good or bad terms.”

Although skipper James McPake played the full 90 minutes against Motherwell in the Under 20s 2-1 win this week, neither he, nor Tim Clancy are likely to feature in Perth, whilst Handling Cairney and Northern Ireland internationalist Ryan McGivern will definitely miss the game through injury.

Council announce their draft budget this morning – Lazarowicz solving the broadband problem in Edinburgh – Casio Music Masterclass with Natalia Posnova – Enter the Race for Life – Edinburgh Ceilidh Club

The Capital Coalition will announce their plans for their draft budget later this morning. This will then be discussed at next week’s Finance Committee meeting and there will be a period of consultation when they want you to have a look and make some suggestions on how to spend their £1bn budget across the city. Finance Convenor Alasdair Rankin is adamant that there will not be cuts, but that savings have to be made by improving procurement across all departments of the council, and also selling off some surplus property to plug the £35m gap.

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After Mark Lazarowicz MP raised the problems that constituents in central Edinburgh are having in getting access to super-fast broadband, a Minister has promise to work with him to try and find a solution.

Mark took the issue up after being contacted by a number of constituents who complained of very low broadband speeds and commercial providers had no plans for their area to be connected to super-fast broadband.

Mark said:-“Super-fast broadband access is vital for businesses and especially SMEs that are key to economic recovery and we have to ensure that the basic infrastructure is there for them to succeed as well as for anyone else who wants to email, tweet or watch programmes.

“Yet parts of my constituency cannot get access to it because on the one hand commercial providers have no plans at present to connect them whilst on the other it is unclear whether EU state aid rules would allow public subsidy to be used to do so as it prohibits that where areas that can be developed commercially. The Council has led the way in spite of that, using welcome funding from the Government to increase public wi-fi access and most recently a new voucher scheme to help businesses cover the costs of connecting to super-fast broadband.

“The Scottish Government has announced new funding but like the bulk of UK Government funding it is targeted at rural and remote areas. That has left ‘not-spots’ in the centre of Edinburgh and I will be writing to the Minister to find out exactly what he now intends to do.”

Edinburgh was awarded funding of £10 million back in autumn 2011 to increase access to super-fast broadband under the UK Government’s super-connected cities programme. In July this year the Council announced new plans to use the funding to increase broadband access in Edinburgh including £2.7m for public wi-fi public access, £3m for vouchers for small businesses; £4m to support start-ups and £1m for an online festival archive.

It originally planned to roll-out super-fast broadband to 90% of the capital’s homes and businesses but this had to be abandoned because it seemed likely to fall foul of EU state aid rules which do not allow government support in areas where super-fast broadband could be developed commercially.

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Calling all music lovers! This coming Thursday, 19 September 2013, acclaimed pianist Natalia Posnova will be performing a special classical cross-over set of Queen songs live at Rae Macintosh Musicroom in association with Casio.

This FREE evening event is ideal for music lovers, teachers, parents and students with a live recital, demonstrations and the opportunity to get involved in a Q&A with Natalia and the Casio team on offer. The Casio team will also give attendees the chance to sample the latest Casio digital pianos and product and one lucky person will WIN a Casio Digital Piano! Every participating piano teacher will receive a FREE gift of a Casio Watch for attending the event which is set to be an evening not to be missed.

Register with the details below to come along and hear for yourself why Queen’s Brian May described Natalia as a “marvel” and claims to have “never seen or heard anything like this”.

The event is part of a six tour around the UK so be sure to sign up below to get involved in what is set to be a great evening in Edinburgh!

Event details: Thursday 19th September Rae Macintosh Musicroom, 41 Shandwick Place, Edinburgh EH2 4RG

For more information and to register your attendance visit: www.casio.co.uk/musicmasterclass
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An Edinburgh cancer survivor is urging local women to reach for the stars and hit cancer where it hurts by signing up for Cancer Research UK’s new evening event, Race for Life Twilight.

Julie Rattray, 30, posed in a deep pink, star patterned ‘onesie’ and brightly coloured walking boots to convey the fun but feisty spirit of the event and encourage more women to take part.

Race for Life Twilight is Cancer Research UK’s new 5k women-only evening fundraising event which will take place in Edinburgh for the first time on Saturday 26 October at Holyrood Park. It will also take place in Aberdeen for the first time on Saturday 19 October.

Julie, who is taking part in the Edinburgh event, said: “I want to invite the women of Scotland to join together as a formidable army this October and stomp all over cancer at the new Race for Life Twilight.”

When Julie Rattray first discovered a lump on her neck, her initial reaction was to make an appointment to see her GP. However, as the appointment approached, the then 26-year-old decided she didn’t want to waste her doctor’s time and she cancelled it.

Six months went by and the lump grew bigger and eventually, during a family Christmas celebration, Julie’s sister, who is also a doctor, noticed it and insisted she should go to her doctor.

It was to be an appointment that saved her life as tests eventually revealed that Julie was suffering from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.

Julie, a student, of Edinburgh, who has been in remission since November 2010, said: “When I first discovered the lump, I thought it couldn’t be cancer because I was too young. I was also reluctant to go to the doctor because I really didn’t want to waste their time. I just thought it was something that would go away by itself.

“Luckily my sister spotted it and, being a doctor herself, she persuaded me to go and get it checked out. By this time, the lump was much bigger and more noticeable and so I was inclined to agree that something needed to be done.”

Unfortunately, and because Julie had left it so late before seeking help, she required eight months’ of chemotherapy, treatment that made her particularly unwell.

Julie added: “I was told that had the cancer been caught early, it’s likely that I would have only needed two months’ of chemotherapy.

“As it was, by the time I was diagnosed, the cancer had progressed to stage three and I needed eight months of chemotherapy. Now that I’ve recovered, I am absolutely determined to get my own back on cancer. That’s why I feel so passionately about recruiting more women to join me for Twilight on the night.  Research saves lives and I want everyone to know it.”

But with help from the people of Scotland, Cancer Research UK intends to make sure the sun sets on cancer for good.

Just like its traditional sister event, Race for Life Twilight is open to all women regardless of age, shape or fitness level. Most women are able to walk 5k in an hour while chatting and having fun. Or they can choose to jog, run or even dance around the course if they prefer.

Susan Johnstone, Cancer Research UK’s Scotland Events Manager, said:

“Race for Life Twilight is an amazing way to celebrate life but also remember those who have been lost to the disease. Like Julie, participants may be decked out in pink onesies, they may plan to prance around the route in their pyjamas or to layer on the Lycra – but what’s inescapable is the power and strength that comes from thousands of women joining together to confront cancer.

She continued: “Thanks to research, hundreds of thousands of lives have been saved. But there are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all. So ladies in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, please join us now.  Show cancer who’s boss by signing up to Race for Life Twilight today.”

Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, Cancer Research UK was able to spend over £33 million last year in Scotland on some of the UK’s leading scientific and clinical research.

Cancer Research UK receives no government funding for its ground-breaking research.  So funds raised through Race for Life Twilight is crucial to the work of doctors, nurses and scientists who work day and night to fight cancer on all fronts.

To enter Race for Life Twilight today go to www.raceforlife.org/twilight  or call 0845 600 6050.

(Photo Gareth Easton)

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The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club have been in touch about their ceilidh tonight:-“We are keeping the fun going this Friday, with the ceilidh club @ The Picture House on Lothian Road.

Teannaich will be providing the music with everything kicking of from 7pm. If you don’t already have yours, you can get your tickets online from www.edinburghceilidhs.com or in person from the Picture House box office, Tickets Scotland (Rose Street) or Ripping Records.

Following that we are back at Summerhall on Tuesday where we have Heeliegoleerie. Tickets are £6 on the door or in advance from www.edinburghceilidhclub.com/tickets opening with everything kicking off at 8pm. Although the advanced tickets have already sold out for this ceilidh, the remaining tickets will go on sale at 10am on Tuesday.

This week’s photo comes from Kathleen McGovern, who visited the Edinburgh Mela and captured some of the performers. Kathleen is a social worker for Edinburgh City Council and enjoys photography and hill walking.

The Stockbridge Photography Club is a non-profit photography club that aims to operate in a different way from the traditional photography club mould. They have informal monthly meetings where they discuss their photos over a cup of coffee and learn about the month’s theme – this month they are meeting in LifeCare, Stockbridge.

Outside of this, they arrange photowalks and trips to various locations and landmarks in and around Edinburgh, providing their members with something interesting to photograph, whilst always having someone on hand to answer any questions.

Currently they are preparing for their upcoming exhibition as part of Stockfest , which will be taking place in Rosie McKenzie Art on St Stephen’s Street. Everybody is welcome!
More info about the club, and their upcoming exhibiton, is on their website

Submitted by Stockbridge Photography Club

This article has been contributed by Sean Watters, Chair, Portobello For A New School

The Portobello Park Private Bill that is currently being considered at Holyrood will no doubt generate much discussion, but in that discussion to is important to remember the core issue at the heart of this: Portobello High School.

Portobello High School is an excellent school that has served the local community for over 100 years. But 50 years ago a problem was created when the largest secondary school in Edinburgh was built on a site fundamentally too small. The building is not fit for purpose, at the end of its useful life, on a site that is grossly undersized, and in urgent need of replacement.

From the outset it was clear that there was no easy option for replacing the school and that compromise would be required. The core dilemma has stemmed from two sincere aims; obtaining the best new school on one hand and preserving open green space on the other. Everyone can support those goals, but balancing priorities is the challenge.

There is no doubt that by far the best site for Portobello High School is Portobello Park. In terms of size, location, and the environment it can provide, no other site comes close. It would finally establish the school somewhere large enough to accommodate all the necessary facilities, and turn an underused space into a valued community asset. What few alternatives exist would not only result in a poorer school, but would take far longer to deliver and cost far more, depriving other Edinburgh schools of much needed investment.

The school on the park alongside public, all-weather pitches, as well as a new park on the existing school site alongside a larger St John’s campus, offers the best possible outcome. The proposals have long been contentious, and a number of people remain firmly opposed. However, there is far more support than opposition within the local community as demonstrated by the unprecedented response to the consultation on the proposed Private Bill: 10,000 respondents across the city with local responses indicating 76% support.

It should also be recognised that the legal bar preventing the school being built on the park is not based on any fundamental principle. Instead it appears to be an accidental omission in the wording of the legislation. A Council can sell inalienable Common Good land. It can apply to a Sheriff Court or the Court of Session who, if convinced of the merits and the benefit to the public, can give authorisation, as has indeed happened in various instances.

However, the ruling of the Inner House last September established that there is no legal means to simply change the use of such land, regardless of the merits, regardless of public benefit, regardless of public support. Three legal experts submitting evidence to the Private Bill Committee have variously described this situation as “odd”, “illogical” and “bizarre”.

Given this odd, illogical and bizarre state it seems likely that Parliament will have to look again at the legislation surrounding Common Good, but that could be a long process. In the meantime this Private Bill seeks a remedy that would apply to part of Portobello Park alone. By reclassifying part of the park as alienable, for the purposes of education alone, the badly needed new school could be built. The land would remain as Common Good and there would be no change to the status of Common Good land or open space anywhere else in Scotland.

If the law on Common Good is not revised then other Councils may pursue Private Bills should they wish to change the use of inalienable Common Good land. If they do so they will have to go through the same lengthy process of convincing the Scottish Parliament of the merits of what they propose, demonstrating both public benefit and public support. A Private Bill is neither a quick nor easy option, but for Portobello it is the only way to deliver the school that our young people need, on a site where most of the community want to see it, as quickly as possible and at the lowest cost.

The Common Good exists for the benefit of a community, a new Portobello High school on Portobello Park is in the best interests of our community, and the Portobello Park Private Bill is the means to achieve that.

Submitted by Sean Watters

Councillor Maureen Child represents Portobello and Craigmillar Ward for the Labour Group. She has been very involved in the council proposal to rebuild the Portobello High School and has written to The Edinburgh Reporter about this.

As you may know Portobello Community Council voted on Monday 26 August, by a narrow margin, to write in support of the refresh of the planning application for Portobello High School to be built on Portobello Park. This reflects the will of the 76% majority of those local people who voted in support of the Council’s move to take the Portobello Park Private Bill to the Scottish Parliament.  The Scottish Parliament Committee sat to consider the matter for the first time yesterday and has three further meetings scheduled before the end of October.

The application the Portobello Community Council was considering is: 13/03200/FUL | Renewal of consent 10/02830/FUL for the erection of the new Portobello High School and associated ancillary buildings, site works, car parking, landscaping, pitches and floodlighting. | Portobello High School 1 Milton Road Edinburgh EH15 3BY.  Go to the ‘view planning applications’ on the Council website to get details

This renewal of the planning consent is a live planning application and I have been careful – up until last night – not to comment, as I was assuming I would take part in the decision process. On reflection, I really was kidding myself!   And last night, I commented favourably on the Portobello Community Council decision at the Portobello/Craigmillar Neighbourhood Partnership Meeting.  In doing so, I felt myself stepping well over the line.

On reflection, it must be abundantly clear to all my friends and family, and many local people well know, that I very strongly support the building of a new Portobello High School on Portobello Park.  I have four grandchildren who might well all be lucky enough to go to the new school, which could be open January 2016. I want the school building to be the best we can ever possibly have, as quickly as we can possibly deliver it.  There is absolutely no truth in the rumour that the Council has succeeded in its bid for the Baileyfield site.  Even if it does succeed, the much preferred option – by a very long margin – remains Portobello Park.

So now, I will take no part in the decision on this particular application when it comes to the Development Management sub-committee of the Planning Committee and will not be in the room when it is being considered by Committee, probably in November.

For me, the good thing is that by sitting this one out I am free – as other Councillors, MPs and MSPs who do not serve on the Planning Committee always are – to forward you the details of how to support the application and back the Bill currently being considered by a Committee of the Scottish Parliament.  If  you are so minded you might equally take the opportunity to object to the proposals.   Whether you are for or against, the deadline for comments to the Head of Planning is 20 September, a week tomorrow.  All the details and links are below.

Kind regards

Maureen

Your support needed for school planning refresh

Supporters of a new high school for the east of Edinburgh are being asked to spare a few moments to back the city council’s application to extend planning permission for the new building.

City of Edinburgh Council’s current planning consent for a new Portobello High School expires on 23 February 2014, and whilst officials believe the Private Bill process can be concluded before then, renewed permission is being sought as a precaution.

Residents, families and business owners are asked to write in support of those plans before the deadline on Friday 20 September.

You can still back the Bill

The committee of MSPs appointed to examine the merits of the City of Edinburgh Council’s private bill are due to hold a series of sessions in September and October.

Evidence will be heard from the promoter (City of Edinburgh Council), legal experts and from those in the community both for and against the proposed legislation.

Council officials have proposed the bill in a bid to resolve the legal issues which have prevented the new school being built at Portobello Park.

You can give your backing to the Bill by signing an Open Letter. 

Scottish Food and Drink provides recipe for success

VisitScotland launched a new food and drink quality assurance scheme today to promote Scottish produce.

A new joint initiative between VisitScotland and the Scottish Government has the potential to increase revenue for food and drink businesses by up to 20%. The Taste Our Best Food and Drink Scheme was launched today (Thursday 12 September) at Craigie’s Farm Deli and Café near Edinburgh by Rural Affairs Secretary, Richard Lochhead (right) and Visit Scotland’s Ridell Graham, pictured with Shirley Spear (owner of the world famous Three Chimneys restaurant on the Isle of Skye.

Photos by

Colin Hattersley Photography

Public Relations  –  Press  –  Corporate  –  Charities  –  Arts & Entertainment

07974 957 388
colinhattersley@btinternet.com
www.colinhattersley.com

A quartet of students and academics from Edinburgh will battle it out with entrepreneurs from other Scottish universities in a bid to become winners of the Converge Challenge – a competition open to students and staff of any Scottish university, giving them a chance to develop the commercial potential of their inventions.

Universities in Edinburgh are well represented, with four of the Converge Challenge top six finalists coming from The University of Edinburgh and Heriot Watt University.

Through to the Converge Challenge final from the capital are – University of Edinburgh trio Kanika Bansal, an RSE Enterprise Fellow from the Department of Biomechanical Engineering, third year PhD student Liita Lyaloo Naukushu from the School of Political Science, working with Helen Fisher a Santander Entern from LAUNCH.ed. Also in the final are Dr Colin Simpson, a reader in Population Health Sciences and Heriot Watt University’s Dawn Maskell, a Post-Doctoral Research Associate.

They are all looking to impress the judging panel with their inventions in a bid to land the £60k cash and in-kind support first prize.

Each of the five has created their own start-up business with a strong emphasis this year on providing solutions across the medical device and healthcare sectors.

Kanika has developed IV Prev, a non‐invasive, disposable device which offers a 99.4% reduction on skin bacteria to prevent infection from IV needle punctures. Likewise, Liita’s and Helen’s business – Beckdales Ltd is a company developing a range of home and industrial cleaning products to dramatically reduce the spread of infections.  Colin Simpson’s business is TriScribe is described as a ‘BigData’ spin‐out from Edinburgh BioQuarter. It analyses data relating to drug by linking prescription information to clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, Dawn Maskell’s business, Horizon Proteins, is developing a sustainable source of proteins for food industries, whereby co‐products from Scotch whisky, as an example, might be converted to a high‐quality protein feed for the Scottish aquaculture industry.

Olga Kozlova, creator of Converge Challenge, commented:-“The Converge Challenge is about equipping people with the right skills and support they need to turn their academic research into a successful commercial venture. New businesses like these set the tone for Scotland’s continuance as a centre of excellence for aspiration and innovation.

Kanika, Liita, Helen, Colin and Dawn, together with the other two finalists from Dundee and Aberdeen, have demonstrated impressive commercial acumen and business planning throughout the entire process leading to this stage.”

The final of the Converge Challenge takes place in Edinburgh on Tuesday 24 September at the Edinburgh Conference Centre, Heriot-Watt University, where the keynote speaker will be John Swinney MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth in the Scottish Government.

United Airlines will introduce non-stop flights between Edinburgh and its Chicago hub, O’Hare International Airport, during the period 23 May – 6 October 2014 (both dates westbound), subject to government approval. It will be the first scheduled non-stop service between the two cities.

The frequency of the service will be five times weekly during the period 23 May – 12 June and  daily between 13 June and 2 September and then four times weekly between 3 September and 6 October (all dates westbound).

The Edinburgh-Chicago flight, UA119, will depart Edinburgh at 10:25 a.m., arriving in Chicago at 1:00 p.m. the same day. The return flight, UA118, will depart Chicago at 6:00 p.m., arriving in Edinburgh at 7:45 a.m. the following day (all times local). Flight times will be eight hours 35 minutes westbound and seven hours 45 minutes eastbound.

Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmond, said:- “I’m delighted that United Airlines has decided to invest in a new route and enhance its existing service between Scotland and the USA. By improving direct routes overseas, we can help reduce the need for travellers to make extra connecting flights via London or the continent, support tourism, trade and investment and so further strengthen Scotland’s economy.

“The eyes of the world will be on Scotland in 2014 and, as we host international sporting stars at the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup and celebrate another Year of Homecoming, we hope to welcome visitors from across the world, not least from the United States with whom we share strong and enduring bonds.”

Bob Schumacher, United’s Managing Director Sales – U.K. & Ireland, said:- “Having recently celebrated 15 years of operations in Scotland, we’re delighted to expand our schedule with seasonal non-stop service to Chicago, United’s home town. Next year’s Homecoming promotion and Ryder Cup at Gleneagles make it the ideal time to launch these flights, which will offer our customers an increased range of travel choices and opportunities.”

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “The announcement of this direct route to Chicago is a fantastic validation of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole.We are delighted to have played our part in developing this route with the other agencies and Government departments that make up ‘Team Scotland’.  This collaborative approach works and we look forward to bringing many more international routes to Edinburgh in the coming months.”

SNP MSP for Edinburgh Western Colin Keir, who is also the Convener of the Scottish Parliament Cross Party Group on Aviation said:-“Once again we have terrific news from the aviation industry. Every time there is a new route introduced the economy of the city improves. Travellers from our capital get more choice of international destinations. Business and tourist alike have the opportunity to avoid the major southern hubs such as Heathrow and Gatwick.

“Not only do direct flights shorten the journey but travellers pay slightly less in Air Passenger Duty (APD). Given the on-going problems related to ridiculously high levels of APD on international flights and the cost to the traveller, the management team at Edinburgh Airport have done a remarkable job in bringing such a prestigious carrier to the city. Edinburgh and Scotland is internationally accepted as a great destination for business”.  Yet another major company is showing confidence in Scotland prior to a Yes vote next year.”

The flights will be operated by Boeing 757-200 aircraft with a total of 169 seats – 16 flat-bed seats in United BusinessFirst and 153 in United Economy, including 45 Economy Plus seats with added legroom and increased personal space.

The new flights are conveniently timed to provide connections beyond Chicago to more than 125 destinations across North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. United offers more non-stop service to more destinations from its Chicago/O’Hare hub than any other carrier.

United currently operates year-round non-stop services from both Edinburgh and Glasgow to its New York hub, Newark Liberty International Airport, having started service to Scotland in 1998.

For more information and to book flights visit united.com or call 0845 6076760.

Public Art on Leith Walk – National Performance Centre for Sport – Edinburgh Reporter Rewards – Edinburgh Council and Solar Power – Cancer Research have your new shoes! – 

We took a look at the public art being completed on Leith Walk yesterday and for our full report with video click here.

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The brand new National Performance Centre for Sport is to be sited at Heriot-Watt University campus, following a successful campaign led by the council to fend off competition from other cities across Scotland. Conservative Group Leader Councillor Cameron Rose, said:- “This is excellent and exciting news for the Capital City. The new centre will not only bring sporting benefit but economic benefit to the city as well. I want to congratulate the whole team for their hard work and achieving an excellent result.”

More here…

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In August 2013 The Edinburgh Reporter hit a huge milestone. The number of hits on our site went through the roof. To thank those of you who are our regular readers we have some Edinburgh Reporter Rewards to hand out over the next while. Today you will find the rewards in articles under our Culture & Business Sections……You just need to look around – as there may be more than one….(In fact there are three!)

Good Luck! The reward in today’s article must be claimed by email before 15 September 2013 at 5:00pm.

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The council is being urged to support the renewable energy industry in the city, both to help employment levels in Edinburgh and also to help the council achieve the aims set out in its Sustainable Edinburgh 2020 strategy. In that document the council has a stated goal of aiming to use renewable energy technologies for at least 40% of the energy used in the city by 2020.

One of the ways that the council believes it can do this is to positively support the development of solar arrays and any other sustainable technologies. Already the council is developing Millerhill along with Midlothian Council in a ‘waste to energy facility’ in a bid to ensure Zero Waste.

The council is a major landowner in the capital and as such it can use land for the construction of solar farms which it believes offer considerable economic potential, although the report to be considered by the council’s Economy Committee next week admits that the council will have to give equal opportunity to other forms of renewables.

With the Capital Coalition draft budget due for release tomorrow it is interesting to read of one of the ways that the council is already trying to increase its revenue stream while at the same time achieving its sustainability aims.

The council’s Economy Committee meets on Tuesday 17 September 2013 and all the papers to be considered at the meeting are available online by clicking here.

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Shoppers in Edinburgh could get more than they bargained for as designer creations by some of the biggest names in the fashion world arrive at Cancer Research UK stores this September.

Shoes, scarves, clothes, handbags and other stunning creations will be hidden in stores across Scotland alongside items donated by the local community as part of the first Tatler Treasure Hunt.

Tatler magazine has joined forces with the fashion elite to donate pieces which will be sold in the charity’s shops, for a fraction of their usual price.

The products will be dropped off at random and so shoppers are being encouraged to keep popping into their local store for the chance to nab a designer creation at an incredible price.

More than thirty influential designers have pledged to donate one piece a season for the next three seasons to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK.

Linda Summerhayes, Cancer Research UK spokesperson in Scotland, said:- “Our charity shops are full of amazing hidden gems just waiting to be discovered and thanks to the Tatler Treasure Hunt this has never been more true.

“This is the perfect time for shoppers who lust after labels and coo over couture to visit their local Cancer Research UK shop, rummage through the rails and see what surprises are in store.

“These generous gifts will raise much needed money for life-saving research to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.”

Contributing designers include Alberta Ferretti, Anya Hindmarch, Belstaff, Bulgari, Burberry, Chanel, Charlotte Olympia, Christian Louboutin, Daks, Diane von Furstenburg, Dolce & Gabbana, Emilia Wickstead, Erdem, Fendi, Jenny Packham, Jimmy Choo, Maje, Manolo Blahnik, Matthew Williamson, Miu Miu, Moschino, Mulberry, Nicholas Kirkwood, Paul Smith, Ports 1961, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Roksanda Ilincic, Roland Mouret, Rupert Sanderson, Stella McCartney, Temperley, Tod’s and Tommy Hilfiger.

Kate Reardon, editor of Tatler and long term supporter of the charity says: “With the Tatler Treasure Hunt more than 30 of the world’s top designers have committed to donating one piece a season for the next three seasons to be sold in Cancer Research UK shops all over the country.  These will be delivered to random shops at random times, so it’s always worthwhile popping in – shoppers might just find something spectacular!”

Cancer Research UK receives no government funding for its ground-breaking research.  So money raised through its shops is crucial to the work of doctors, nurses and scientists who are fighting cancer on all fronts.

The charity relies on the generosity of its supporters to keep its shops stocked and is always in need of good quality donations of clothes, shoes, bags, homeware, books, CDs and DVDs.

To find the nearest Cancer Research UK shop, visit www.cancerresearch.org.uk/shops

Tennis star Jamie Murray – the US Men’s Clay Court doubles champion has agreed to become Patron of the Hibernian Community Foundation.

Jamie, a former Wimbledon mixed doubles champion, is one of the most successful British doubles players recording tournament wins around the world.

Scott Lindsay, Foundation Director, said: “Jamie has been supportive of the Foundation and has shown genuine interest in the work we do in the community. We are delighted that he has accepted our invitation to become our Patron, and we look forward to working with him in future.

“Given his status as a top sportsman, it is appropriate because Jamie understands the power that sport has to touch and change lives for the better.”

Jamie said: “I was very happy to help when I was approached. Clearly the Club is close to my family and we are also keen to harness sport to improve things for people. I am looking forward to working with the Foundation in the future.”

Jamie, and his brother – newly crowned Wimbledon champion Andy – are both Hibernian fans because their grandfather, Roy Erskine, played matches for the Club in the 1950s behind the Famous Five forward line.

His agreement follows soon after Kirsty Gallacher’s decision to become Patron of Hibernian Girls and Ladies, another key part of the Foundation’s activities. Kirsty, the leading Sky Sports presenter, was also following a family tradition in supporting Hibernian.

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a road collision in the city centre last night (Wednesday).

The incident happened around 11.20pm on South Bridge.

A black cab was turning onto the High Street when it was involved in a collision with a Honda motorcycle that was travelling in the opposite direction.

The 20-year-old male rider sustained a serious leg injury and was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he continues to be treated.

Road Policing Officers responded and closed the road for around two hours while they carried out an investigation at the scene.

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

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Despite the time of night at which this incident occurred, the High Street and surrounding area is continually busy and any motorists or pedestrians who witnessed the collision are asked to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone with any other information relevant to this investigation is also asked to get in touch.”

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

To recognise our fabulous August visitor numbers we asked some of our contacts to offer our readers something as an Edinburgh Reporter Reward.

Our unique users in August were over 100,000 which is an amazing number of people – and two and a half times the number of people reading our site in January 2013.

Today the Edinburgh Reporter Reward we have on offer  15% off all marshmallows ordered from The Marshmallow Lady

What you have to do is send us an email to theedinburghreporter@gmail.com with Edinburgh Reporter Rewards in the subject line giving us the answer The Marshmallow Lady to arrive by Sunday 15 September 2013 at 5:00pm. Good luck!

She will then hand bake gourmet marshmallows for you and you will pay only the discounted price. We will choose the winner from all correct entries and you will get a voucher to present to The Marshmallow Lady. Nicola Roberts who is behind the business is at Stockbridge Market each Sunday as well as working from her shop in Rodney Street.

Nicola says:-“I use Fair Trade sugar, Scottish butter & cream and Scottish berries in my Marshmallows. I also used recycled and recyclable packaging. The majority of the Marshmallows are not only delicious but gluten-free, dairy free and low-fat!”

A sample of the flavours available are described below, there are so many more in the shop, so click on the online store to see the full range. The marshmallows can be used as wedding favours, or simply as a sweet treat to reward yourself.

Vanilla bean: Real vanilla bean and vanilla extract is used to infuse a seriously aromatic take on the old fashioned “pink and white”

Raspberry: We use the best berries in season to give an experience similar to that of a fresh home-made yoghurt smoothie only sweeter and with the mallow texture.

Key Lime Pie: An interesting twist on this classic dessert. A crumbly biscuit base combined with a bitter-sweet lime mallow. Freshly squeezed Lime juice and topped with crystallised lime zest.

Millionaire Shortbread: An experience to be had. Subtle creamy notes give way to the sweet buttery texture of shortbread finished off with the rich chocolate and caramel of the real millionaire shorty.

Lemon Meringue: A light, refreshing citrus treat with a lovely zing to it. Made with Freshly squeezed lemons and zest.

Beer: Yes, you read that right. Beer Marshmallows are a revelation! Using the delicious ‘Innis & Gunn Rum Cask’ Beer these Marshmallows have to be tried to be fully appreciated.

You can find out where The Marshmallow Lady is by having a look at her Facebook page here. She will also tell you how many marshmallows she has baked and sold – 10,000 one weekend!

The National Sport Performance Centre is to be built at Heriot-Watt following a successful campaign led by the council. 

Edinburgh has won the race to be the location for the new national sport performance centre, beating off strong competition from Stirling and Dundee.

The successful bid by Heriot-Watt University, in partnership the City of Edinburgh Council, to host the £30m facility was announced today by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. £5m will be paid by the council and the balance is being provided by the government.

Professor Steve Chapman, Principal of Heriot-Watt University, said: “This is tremendous news, for the bid team and, I believe, for the future of performance sport in Scotland.

“We have the go-ahead to create a world class sporting facility, combining the expertise we already have at Heriot-Watt, with a tremendous location, design and setting which have proved a winning formula and will continue to do so for Scotland’s up and coming sports men and women.

“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in our bid, at Heriot-Watt, at the City of Edinburgh Council and all of our external partners, consultants  and backers. Our real reward, however, isn’t winning the bid, but will come when the Centre is up and running and we can see it making a real difference to Scotland’s sporting future.”

Cllr Richard Lewis, the Council’s Sport convener, said: “This is absolutely fantastic news for Edinburgh and all those who love sport across Scotland. Heriot-Watt University and the capital will provide an excellent home to the next generation of top athletes and those involved in helping them achieve their aims. Our bid enjoyed great support from the community and local sport groups will also be able to take advantage of this world-class facility on their doorstep. I’m really looking forward to working with Heriot-Watt as they develop their plans in detail ready for future Olympians and cup-winners in 2016.”

The new National Performance Centre for Sport will be built in the parkland setting of Heriot-Watt University’s extensive campus in the west of the city. It will feature a Hampden replica pitch, an outdoor synthetic pitch, four outdoor natural football and two rugby pitches, nine court sports hall,  a 3G indoor football pitch and a fitness suite, and world class facilities for sports science and medicine all linked together by a spectacular sports promenade.

One of the main features, created by top Scottish architects Reiach & Hall, is the centre’s roof, inspired by the angle and trajectory of what is recognised as one of the greatest goals in football history, Brazil’s Roberto Carlos’ strike against France in 1997.

The design has also been developed ‘around the athlete’, providing world class sporting facilities and services that will have a positive impact on the preparation and development of athletes, coaches and volunteers.

The site’s excellent transport links providing easy access to the city, Edinburgh Airport and the wider surrounding area, were also a key feature of the Edinburgh bid, which enjoyed the backing of top sporting celebrities including Olympians Sir Chris Hoy and Sir Steve Redgrave, rugby legend Gavin Hastings, footballer Michael Stewart and Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson.

The Edinburgh bid partnership would also like to thank the public who provided their support, with Go Edinburgh website registering nearly 5000 pledges, as well as Edinburgh Airport, other local authorities, local sport organisations, and the many other partners that gave their backing.

Local MSP Gordon Macdonald commented:

“The decision to locate the National Performance Centre for Sport is excellent news for the local community, Edinburgh and Scotland. Having this facility on the doorstep will encourage our athletes towards achieving the highest standards of performance on the international stage.”

“Thanks are due to the winning bid team in persuading the NPCS Steering Group the benefits of locating the new performance centre in my constituency. The campus’s excellent transport connections and its vicinity to two major cities place it in easy reach of the majority of the population.”

“I’m sure that when it opens in 2016 it will prove to be a world class venue that will not only inspire coaches and athletes to maximise their potential but also future generations of youngsters.”

BIN IT AND WIN A TABLET COMPUTER

We all know the student thing to do is actually to keep your empties on top of the kitchen cupboards, but now the council is keen to get them into the habit of recycling in their new homes.

A campaign to raise awareness amongst Edinburgh’s student population about the importance of recycling has been launched – with a tablet computer to be won as part of the promotion.

The aim of the campaign is to make it as easy as possible for the average 95,000 students who live in the Capital to recycle their rubbish, whether they live in student flats or private accommodation.

Recycling advisers from the City of Edinburgh Council want to make sure that students know as much about the facilities and services available and to encourage them to dispose of rubbish responsibly.

As well as halls of residence, many students move into private rented accommodation and they need to be aware of the negative impact that inappropriate disposal of rubbish, such as overfilling bins with waste most of which can be recycled or dumping large items out on the street or by communal bins, can have on the local communities in which they live.

An Asus Nexus 7 tablet is up for grabs as part of the campaign – all students have to do is to “like” the Bin It and Win It Facebook page for the chance to win. Recycling officers are also hosting stalls at Freshers Fairs this month.

Councillor Jim Orr, Environment Vice Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said:-“This competition is an ideal way of making the estimated 95,000 students living in Edinburgh aware of the wide range of recycling facilities which are available to them.
“They make up a significant and very welcome part of our population, and therefore it is imperative that the Council works with the student community to reduce the amount of waste generated and help them recycle as much as possible.

“By working together we can send less waste to landfill and move towards a more sustainable waste policy. We will continue to offer advice and support for residents who would like to further reduce and recycle their household waste.

“I would also like to congratulate the students of Edinburgh University on the successful establishment of SHRUB, a swap and reuse hub based in Guthrie Street which started as a “Fresher’s Freeshop”. SHRUB received a local Neighbourhood Partnership grant last year and is a great example of the Council working with other partners to reduce waste.”

As the professional rugby season gets under way, I thought it might be an idea to do a ‘piece to internet’ about how the words and images get from there to here…

I have chosen, for my illustration, one of last season’s Autumn International matches involving Scotland and one of the Southern Hemisphere’s Fantastic Four– New Zealand – which was played on the 11^th November 2012.

nd October – Accepted!

Back to the car, get my ‘stuff’ and off across the outfield car park, through the security checks and into the room to find myself a wee corner out of the way, so assemble my equipment, check it out – again – stick my bib on and go for a wander to see who’s about and take a few shots. Just to check, you understand…

12:00 – 12:30-ish and it’s time to wander – you do a lot of ‘wandering’ – off to lunch. Same old roast beef, salmon, roast pork, smoked mackerel, gammon, potato or prawn salad, green salad – you get the idea – after which it’s about time to get sorted, bib on again and out to the pitch.

Put my metaphorical towel on a suitable spot and off I go to do the rounds of the warm-up, the various TV stations doing their set-ups and run throughs with their presenters. The BBC ones are always familiar, Jill Douglas, John Inverdale and a variety of former players, now ‘punditting’ for their crust. Pre-match entertainment is provided, again, by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers playing an all too familiar selection of their tunes, again, to the gathering crowd. I like them, but they must have a wider repertoire. They must…

I have a friendly exchange with a supporter who thinks I’m mad for doing all this for no pay. He has paid £50 for his ticket, plus travel and food and drink to sit up in the sky. I’ve accessed all over, had doors and gates opened for me, had a wee chat about hockey with Scott Hastings, I’m down at the end of the pitch and have been fed and watered. For the price of a gallon (that’s 4.56 litres to you youngsters!) of petrol. Who’s mad?

Getting close now and kick-off is preceded by some of Scotland’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes who are formed up into a guard of honour to usher the players onto the pitch to line up for…

The Anthems. Both New Zealand versions and then ‘Flower of Scotland’. Belted out by 50,000+ voices in an enclosed arena… Wow! is the only word to describe the volume, the passion, the sheer feeling of a wall of sound battering away at your body and your senses… Fantastic! It’s almost enough to make you rush out and vote for President Alex… Almost… You can never tire of it. Ever. Then it all goes quiet as the All Blacks get in position for ‘Ka Mate’ – The Haka! I defy anyone not to feel the hairs on the back of your neck tingling – even now as I write this – when the Haka is performed.

The Scots take up position, arms linked on their 10 metre line and scrum half, Piri Weepu, leads off.

As we’re all concentrating on the Haka, the noise from the crowd starts to build, so curiosity and all that, takes over and there we have it. Scotland are slowly advancing in a line toward the All Blacks with the referee trying to, at least, slow them down a little. That’s it. Challenge accepted and met. Sir Chris Hoy delivers the match ball and 14:33, GAME ON!

16:19. GAME OVER! 51-22 to the All Blacks. A sound beating? Nothing else than a win for the visitors was expected, however, Scotland played out of their skins, taking the opposition on and generally giving an excellent all-round performance. And, in the process, becoming the first team in a long while to score three tries against the World Champions. Job done – for them.

For me, it’s back to the ‘cosy’ room, pack away my kit, curse quietly as someone has run off with my programme and fight my way back to the car. Luckily, the vehicles in the car parks are held until the foot traffic eases a bit, so fifteen minutes from the final whistle and off I go home, my head swirling with details and scores and statistics to try and remember for the match report.

I usually write the report, backing up my memory of the match by working through the images, using those taken of the scores and scorers to build the story and inserting small snippets I might have remembered. Once that’s done, usually by the next morning, I check what I’ve written against the official SRU match report, just to ensure that I have the correct details – and no, I don’t ‘paraphrase’ or plagiarise as the writing journalists have a different ‘view’ and experience to fall back on, so it would just turn into a poor rehash – and off it goes into cyberspace for our Editor, to collect at her leisure!

But, I’m still not done as I now have my editing to do…  Firstly, get rid of all the ‘dead’ images. No ball, blurry, near duplicates, etc, all go to whittle the numbers down to about 700-odd. Another round of selection nets me 178 images ‘suitable’ for final editing. This bit takes a while…… While over and successfully saved, now is the time to upload to my on-line gallery – as ‘advertised’ at the bottom of all my match reports – and before I know it, it’s Monday lunch-time, and time for ‘Neighbours’ – we all have our secrets – as the wheels of the internet churn away. Album saved, made public, job done. Coffee… 

 So there we have it. When you guys out here – there are some, yes? – access The Edinburgh Reporter and see ‘Rugby – Scotland v New Zealand’ on the Sunday, you now know – you might not care – what goes into the preparation for the eventual report and why the gallery of images, infuriatingly, lags a day or so behind.

And all for the love and the glory. And a very nice buffet….

Web – http://www.photoboxgallery.com/jlp-photography/collection?album_id=1562533375

Now that the new bridge which is to be built in the Firth of Forth has a name, it seems only fair to talk about it more. Finance Secretary John Swinney has today revealed that the overall cost of the Queensferry Crossing is set to be £145 million lower than previous estimates.

Hearts have announced that Billy Brown, currently assisting manager Gary Locke, is to continue at Tynecastle until January 2014 – with the likelihood that the former East Fife manager will be in Gorgie until at least the end of the season.

Brown, 62, is in his third stint as Hearts assistant having been Jim Jefferies right hand man on two previous occasions from 1995 to 2000 and 2010 to 2011. The former Hibernian assistant manager spoke of his delight at staying on at the club which is his first love.

‘I came here at the start of the season to help Gary and I’m delighted to be staying on. I’m very excited about what is happening here.’

Gary Locke was equally delighted to know his mentor was not planning on leaving any time soon. ‘I have the utmost respect and admiration for Billy. He has an enormous knowledge of the game and having someone with his experience is a huge help to me’.

Hearts face Celtic at the weekend in the SPFL and as well as being boosted by retaining Brown’s services, will be able to recall defenders Danny Wilson and Kevin McHattie from suspension as well as having Jamie Hamill able to play after his red card received at Inverness Caledonian Thistle ten days ago was rescinded by the SFA.

Portobello Park Action Group warns MSPs of setting dangerous precedent over Portobello Park

Portobello Park Action Group (PPAG) is urging MSPs to vote against a Private Bill that would allow the City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) to build a new school on the inalienable common good land of Portobello Park.

As the Scottish Parliament’s Private Bill Committee is getting ready to hear evidence from the proposer’s side today, campaigners have sought legal advice which they say confirms appropriation of the land would set a dangerous precedent with consequences reaching far beyond Edinburgh.

“We want a new high school for Portobello just as much as everybody else, but the Court of Session ruled in September 2012 that Portobello Park is inalienable common good land, making it illegal to build on the land”, says PPAG spokeswoman Alison Connelly.

“We find it very strange that a new planning application has been submitted for Portobello Park when it is currently illegal to build on the land.

“It is inconceivable why the council would continue to waste money to pursue these plans, especially when alternative sites are readily available.

“The parliament’s own legal experts reviewed the case and found that the park is indeed inalienable. Changing its status to allow the City of Edinburgh Council to build on it will open the door to the appropriation of more parks throughout Scotland.

“Cash-strapped councils could quite simply use valuable green space to help fill their pockets by selling these prime sites to developers.”

Other parks being threatened by similar plans include Bogton Park in Forres, Coo’s Green in North Berwick and Cowan Park in Barrhead.

“We are also concerned about the Scottish Government getting involved in and deciding what is currently a local issue. This high-level involvement ensures that other councils can use the Government’s decision when facing similar issues in the future, leading to further loss of green space in our cities.”

PPAG has campaigned against building on Portobello Park since 2006. A full timeline and more detailed comments from PPAG of the Save Porty Park campaign can be found at www.portygreenkeepers.org.uk

You can read about the need for a new school here on the  Council website.

Young people will take on ‘The Apprentice’-style job challenges at Hibernian FC’s Easter Road Stadium as part of a new community education scheme to tackle youth unemployment in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Hibernian Community Foundation and Edinburgh College have teamed up with local businesses to run new education programmes over the next three years to give young people the skills, experience and confidence to get on the jobs ladder or prepare for college. The aim is to ensure local youngsters have more opportunity to gain access to education and employment opportunities.

The courses will be hosted at Easter Road’s Hibernian Learning Centre, and delivered in partnership with Edinburgh-based firms TCMO and Xpress Recruitment.

The courses on offer this year include: My Club – Delivered in partnership with The Prince’s Trust, a seven-week course offering a Level 1 football coaching badge and Employability Skills qualification alongside health and fitness activity, work placement and volunteering experience; The Recruit – A 12-week course based on the popular television series ‘The Apprentice’ (without the threat of being fired and ejected from the course), including individual and team challenges in the area of sport, events management and hospitality alongside employability and enterprise skills and the opportunity to ‘win’ a paid work placement and  Hibernian Events Management and Hospitality Academy – An 18-week course with a focus on hospitality and events management qualifications and an extended work placement. The courses engage with local employers and Hibernian sponsors and supporters to help set the individual and team challenges and provide young people with meaningful work experience and access to different workplaces.  Participants will be provided mentors and job coaching to learn what employers are looking for, how to handle new situations and how to present themselves with confidence to potential employers as they gain skill working with others. Each course stands on its own, but participants may be able to progress through all three.

Executive Director of Hibernian Community Foundation, Kris Von Wald, said: “Our partnership with Edinburgh College and these new courses demonstrate our commitment to the community for the long haul. The Hibernian brand and Easter Road have a strong appeal in the community and daily activity in and around football is a natural fit with hospitality and events management. The full-year offer is a unique and joined up way to introduce young people to the world of work and help them engage with education, employment or training – working with delivery partners we can achieve so much more.”

Ray McCowan, Vice Principal at Edinburgh College, said: “Edinburgh College is really excited to be working with Hibernian Community Foundation on this innovative education programme. Helping young people get a good start in life once they have left school is so important. Education and employment play a huge part in that. Football is also hugely influential in young people’s lives and we are hoping that pairing up education with the Hibernian brand will be the catalyst for many young people who may never have previously thought about going to college. We are also really grateful to the local employers and Hibernian supporters who are key partners for this project by making work placement and internship opportunities available. Hibernian FC is very much a family club, and we are pleased to be working together to do what we can to provide a positive start for the younger members of the Hibernian family.”

Raymond Currie, Director of TCMO, said: “Supporting individuals, especially young people, to overcome the barriers to employment has been an integral part of the TCMO / XPRESS vision. In giving back to the community, we help young people achieve their potential and prepare them for the journey to career success. Overcoming barriers requires perseverance and a positive attitude, and working with our partners in the innovative setting of Easter Road Stadium provides the perfect setting for all participants to achieve their career goals”.

The unique and innovative partnership between the Foundation and the college saw the opening of Hibernian Learning Centre in January of 2010. These new courses build on the success of matching up learning opportunities with the appeal of Scottish Premiership football and Hibernian FC.  More than 500 learners have accessed the Hibernian Learning Centre since its opening, and the Learning Centre continues to offer core IT skills and European Computer Driving License (ECDL) independent learning courses.

The Hibernian Community Foundation aims to harness the power and passion of football to improve health, promote learning and enhance opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives and in the local community. In the past year the Foundation’s activities created more than 10,000 opportunities for engaging with people in the community.  These activities range from courses to improve literacy and IT skills to projects to help fans with fitness and weight loss.

Road Safety event for sixth year pupils – Edinburgh Reporter Rewards – By Election Date set – Children’s Panel roadshow comes to Edinburgh – Today at The Filmhouse

There is a road safety event being held at the Corn Exchange this week. The photo shows the slide by which teenagers can be shown the impact of a car at less than 10 mph. The idea is that they should be shown it is best to wear a seatbelt. They are usually given a plastic cup of water to hold which is a graphic demonstration of an impact at even very low speed.

All schools in Edinburgh have been invited to the event organised by Streets Ahead. Read more here.

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In August 2013 The Edinburgh Reporter hit a huge milestone. The number of hits on our site went through the roof. To thank those of you who are our regular readers we have some Edinburgh Reporter Rewards to hand out over the next while. Today you will find the rewards in articles under our Culture Section……You just need to look around – as there may be more than one….(In fact there are two!)

Good Luck! The reward must be claimed by email before 14 September 2013 at 5:00pm.

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The vacancy caused by former MSP Bill Walker resigning on Monday will be filled next month. The Dunfermline by-election will be held on Thursday 24 October, it has been announced.

Under the Section 9 of the Scotland Act 1998, the date of the poll is fixed by the Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament.

Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick has this morning written to Steve Grimmond, Chief Executive of Fife Council, as Returning Officer, to confirm her choice of date and ask for arrangements for the by-election to be put in place.

Section 9 of the Scotland Act 1998 refers:

9 Constituency vacancies
(1)Where the seat of a constituency member is vacant, an election shall be held to fill the vacancy (subject to subsection (4)).
(2)The date of the poll shall be fixed by the Presiding Officer.
(3)The date shall fall within the period of three months—
(a)beginning with the occurrence of the vacancy, or
(b)if the vacancy does not come to the notice of the Presiding Officer within the period of one month beginning with its occurrence, beginning when it does come to his notice.
(4)The election shall not be held if the latest date for holding the poll would fall within the period of three months ending with the day on which the poll at the next ordinary general election would be held (disregarding section 2(5)).
(5)For the purposes of this section, the date on which a vacancy is to be treated as occurring shall be determined under standing orders.
(6)A person may not be a candidate at such an election if he is a member of the Parliament or a candidate in another election to fill a vacancy.

Here in Edinburgh the vacancy caused by the death of David McLetchie was filled without the need for a by-election. As Mr McLetchie was a list MSP the vacancy was filled by the next person available, Cameron Buchanan who took his seat at Holyrood last week will now represent Lothian for the Conservative and Unionist Party.

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CHILDREN’S PANEL VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT AS NATIONAL TOUR HITS EDINBURGH

Search underway for the 50 new panel members needed in capital

People in Edinburgh who think they can help young people in need of care are being urged to find out about becoming a Children’s Panel member as a tour visits the city from tomorrow.

Over the next three days, locals will be encouraged to sign up as the tour hits Edinburgh’s Omni Centre (12 September), Gyle Shopping Centre (13 September) and Ocean Terminal (14 September). 

Panel members and staff will be on hand to explain what the role involves in a bid to find the 50 volunteers needed to ensure the Children’s Panel offers the best possible support to vulnerable children and young people living in Edinburgh.

Scotland has a new single national Children’s Panel, made up of 2,500 volunteer panel members who regularly attend hearings to address the needs and behaviour of children and young people who face serious problems in their lives. Problems which can include being abused, failing to attend school, parents having difficulty looking after them, or committing an offence.

New volunteers are needed every year and the national tour is part of a three week long recruitment drive, led by Children’s Hearings Scotland (CHS), to attract people from all walks of life to this unique role.

Existing panel member Kingsley Dawson, 62 from Edinburgh, has been a Children’s Panel member since the beginning of 2013. 

Backing the campaign, he said:

“I think the ideal Children’s Panel member would be a compassionate person who is able to make a child feel comfortable in what is often a daunting environment. The most important thing is that the children involved in a panel are listened to – we are there for the children, not the adults and this should remain at the centre of what we do.

“When it comes to volunteering, people often have more to give than they think and get more out of it than they expect. This has certainly been the case for me with the Children’s Panel and it’s good to be part of something so meaningful and worthwhile. I would definitely encourage others to think about getting involved.”

Bernadette Monaghan, National Convener, Children’s Hearings Scotland, said:

“The Children’s Hearings System has the best interests of Scotland’s children and young people at heart. As this national tour gets underway, we’re appealing to those who want to help improve the lives of vulnerable children and young people to consider becoming a panel member.

“Having served on the Children’s Panel for nine years, I know from experience the valuable role the 2,500 volunteers play in helping children at risk out of dark places. It’s a unique role, and a unique system which ensures children in need or at risk are heard, respected, valued, cared for and, above all, protected. 

“It won’t just change a child’s life, it’ll change yours too.”

The deadline for applications is Friday 27 September.  To find out more about becoming a panel member, call 0844 848 3407, text CHILD to 61611 or visitwww.childrenspanelscotland.org. 

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A host of films on offer at The Filmhouse today including What Maisie knew (we told you about this yesterday) and a single showing of a documentary film called Nostalgia for the Light which the cinema describe as follows:-

Master director Patricio Guzmán travels 10,000 feet above sea level to the driest place on earth, the Atacama Desert, where atop the mountains astronomers from all over the world gather to observe stars. The Atacama is also a place where the harsh heat of the sun preserves human remains of political prisoners ‘disappeared’ by the Chilean army after the military coup of September 1973. So while astronomers examine the most distant and oldest galaxies, women, surviving relatives of the disappeared whose bodies were dumped here, search for the remains of their loved ones. 

Booking details here.

Prostate Cancer UK chosen as Scotmid Co-operative’s new charity partner

Prostate Cancer UK is to receive a welcome boost after being chosen as the new charity partner for Scotmid Co-operative. The independent co-operative Society, which includes Scotmid stores, Semichem stores, The Fragrance House stores, funeral branches and post offices, has set a fundraising target of £150,000 over the next year.

Staff are now planning a number of exciting fundraising activities to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, with many male team members getting ready for Movember and others planning sponsored zip slides, abseils, marathons and cycles. All of Scotmid’s stores will have Prostate Cancer UK pin badges available for a suggested donation of £1. A key part of the charity partnership will also be about raising awareness of prostate cancer among staff members.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK and every hour one man dies of the disease. Prostate Cancer UK fights to help more men survive prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life, providing support, raising awareness and funding research into prostate cancer.

Malcolm Brown, Head of Corporate Communications for Scotmid said: “We are really excited about our new charity partnership with Prostate Cancer UK and our team is already full of ideas for raising as much money as possible. Prostate cancer is a cause that is very close to the hearts of many of our staff, customers and members and we are delighted that we can help.”

Fiona Dunlop, Fundraising Manager at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen as Scotmid Co-operative’s new charity partner. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and is predicted to be the most common cancer overall by 2030. We desperately need to raise funds and awareness to beat this terrible disease. Having the backing of Scotmid Co-operative’s staff and customers is an enormous boost as we fight to do exactly that.”

The new partnership with Prostate Cancer UK comes after Scotmid announced that it had raised a record amount of £267,000 for its 2012/2013 charity partner, Maggie’s. The Society’s charity partnership scheme, which began in 2001, has raised more than £1 million for charities since its initiation, including for The Princes Trust, RNLI and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Image attached: Prostate Cancer UK volunteers David Sinton (front left) and Iain Robb (front far right) celebrate the start of their partnership with the Scotmid Co-operative team.

Prostate Cancer UK fights to help more men survive prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life. We support men and provide vital information. We find answers by funding research into causes and treatments. And we lead change, raising the profile of the disease and improving care. We believe that men deserve better.

Anyone concerned about prostate cancer can call Prostate Cancer UK’s confidential Helpline on 0800 074 8383 or visit http://www.prostatecanceruk.org. The helpline is staffed by specialist nurses and open from 9am to 5pm on Monday to Friday and from 7 – 9pm on Wednesdays.

• Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men in the UK.
• Over 40,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year.
• Every hour one man dies from prostate cancer.
• African Caribbean men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men of the same age.

Submitted by Alistair Haw

The Haven Cafe was set up by Natalie Kwek and her business is supported by the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust. You can follow them on Facebook where they urge you to come on down to the cosy cafe in Newhaven. “Come visit us for a cosy cuppa, a yummy all day breakfast or a delicious homemade cake or three!!” Natalie and her staff at The Haven were selected as a Regional Business Award winner last week by PSYBT.

The Haven Cafe is open daily

DRIVING HOME ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES TO YOUNG MOTORISTS

The Edinburgh Reporter was invited to attend part of an event promoting road safety to 6^th year pupils at Edinburgh Corn Exchange earlier today. First of all we listened to a very sobering and moving account by Sarah Irvine of her experience when she took off her seat belt for a moment and had a serious accident with her beloved car, George. The shock of this story clearly impacted on the young audience too.

Sarah Irvine said:-  “One mistake in not putting my seatbelt on during a short journey led to ten days in high dependency and a life changing experience for me. I lost my dream of swimming competitively and my beloved car was written off. My advice would be, no matter how short the journey or the excuse not to, always wear a seatbelt. Events like these are great to inform young people of what can happen and how things can go wrong in an instant.”

Councillor Lesley Hinds, the Council’s Convener of Transport was at the event and was very enthusiastic about the effect that an event such as this can have:-

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We spoke to Chief Superintendent Mark Williams of Police Scotland about the need for the safety message to the young audience:-

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The Edinburgh Reporter also met up with an old friend, Dougy Johnstone, who represents Spinal Injuries Scotland. Dougy is in a wheelchair as a result of a motorbike accident, but is positive about the work he does as a Peer Support Manager to help those who suffer life changing spinal injuries getting back to work or going on holiday.

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Edinburgh Young Drivers event is at the Edinburgh Corn Exchange for its third year between 10-12 September, aiming to reduce the number of young people killed or injured on our roads.

The event, organised by Streets Ahead is the biggest of its kind in Scotland and all S6 school pupils in Edinburgh have been invited to attend.

In 2011, 17 to 25-year-olds accounted for nearly a quarter of all road casualties in Edinburgh, with young men being the most likely to commit driving offences. New drivers are most at risk in their first year of driving.

This intervention covers the key issues of drink-driving, speeding and wearing seatbelts, with attendees taking part in various activities designed to teach them how to lower their chances of causing or being involved in collisions themselves.

Young people who have been affected by serious incidents will also share their stories, and a hard-hitting play, ’Friends Disunited’, will highlight the potentially life changing consequences of careless driving and peer pressure.

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Members of the public are being asked to cook up ideas about the best way to set up a Sustainable Food City Strategy in Edinburgh.
A consultation on the proposed Strategy has been launched after the Capital became Scotland’s only member of the new national Sustainable Food Cities (SFC) Network.

Views can be expressed by completing the online survey which accompanies the consultation.
The SFC Network will encourage public and private organisations in 13 UK cities to work together to make healthy and sustainable food a defining characteristic. It will build on the Edible Edinburgh project that is currently being led by the City of Edinburgh Council.

The consultation will also be publicised at the Edible Edinburgh – Feeding the 5,000 event in Bristo Square on 5 October 2013 when chefs will prepare free meals for as many people as possible to promote cutting food waste. Organisers hope to attract up to 5,000 people to the event, the first of its kind in Scotland.

Environment Convener Councillor Lesley Hinds, who is a member of Edible Edinburgh, said:- “We are delighted to be named as a Sustainable Food City. The aim of the programme goes beyond simply encouraging people to eat healthily, but also highlights the wider environmental and social impact of where we buy food from.

“Edible Edinburgh’s vision is that the Capital will become a place where good food is available and accessible for all, making for healthy people, thriving communities and a sustainable environment.

“The Network also supports our ongoing work to encourage the recycling of food waste and reducing landfill, which will lead to a cleaner and greener city.”

Tom Andrews, Soil Association programme manager of Sustainable Food Cities said: “The Network will create cities where every school, hospital, restaurant and workplace canteen serve only healthy and sustainable meals; where everyone has access to affordable fresh, seasonal, local and sustainably produced food no matter where they live; and where people of all ages and backgrounds have opportunities to learn about, grow and cook food.”

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a break-in and theft from a property in the Craigmount area of the city.

The incident happened sometime between midnight and 7am on Thursday 5th September at an address in Stuart Green.

A number of electrical goods along with a distinctive Omega diving watch were stolen from inside while the occupant slept. The timepiece is worth around £2,000 and is bright orange.

Officers have been carrying out local enquiries since last week and are now keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in the area.

PC Ruth Craig said: “The homeowner was obviously very upset to have had his belongings taken while he was asleep within the property and is keen to have these goods, particularly, the watch returned to him.

“Anyone who comes across this distinctive item is asked to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone with information that can help us locate the stolen property or trace those responsible for this incident is also asked to get in touch.”

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

Hibs have announced a profit of £100,000 for the year ended 31 July 2013, following two years of losses. The main factor in this turnaround was an increase in Turnover, whilst operating costs were also kept under tight control.

Turnover increased by £1.1m to £8.0m from £6.9m in 2012. SPL related revenues were the largest factor in this upturn, reflecting the improved seventh place SPL finish compared with 11th place in the previous year.

Staff costs reduced from £4.1m to £3.9m, leading to a wages to turnover ratio of 49%; the lowest since 2007. This was driven by the increase turnover and reductions in both Football and Non-Football staff costs.

The profit before taxation for the year was £0.1m compared with a loss of £1.0m in the previous year.

The Net Assets of the Club, after taking account of all liabilities, amounted to £13.6m at 31 July 2013.

Net debt fell by £0.9m from £6.4m to £5.5m as a result of positive cash flow in the year and the scheduled repayment of bank loans.

Club Chairman Rod Petrie who will meet supporters from the ‘Let’s Work Together’ group at Easter Road on Wednesday night told the Club Website: “The return to profit is a welcome improvement on the previous two years, and gives the Club a solid platform for future sporting success.”

The Annual General Meeting for shareholders will be held at Easter Road Stadium at 7pm on Tuesday 1 October 2013.

On the field, Hibs under 20s beat Motherwell 2-1 at in the SPFL U20 League at the Energy Assets Arena last night, thanks to goals from summer signings Cody Mulhall and Jason Cummings.

Club captain James McPake who has been missing through injury sustained against Malmo played the full 90 minutes playing in the heart of the defence alongside player coach Alan Maybury.

Hibernian under-20s: Dougie Horne, Andrew Black, Callum Crane, Jordan Sinclair, Alan Maybury, James McPake, Euan Smith, David Paul, Ross Caldwell, Cody Mulhall, Jason Cummings. Subs: Kleton Perntreou, Aaron Dunsmore, Gareth McCaffrey, Tom Gardiner, Jamie Beaton, Max Todd, Jay Doyle.

Panda news – Saddle Up for the Mercat’s Charity Race Night – Edinburgh Reporter Rewards – Call for evidence on nuisance calls – Fire stations open their doors

It is often said that no news is good news. But we are all anxious to know what is happening with the female giant panda Tian Tian.

The zoo know this and have issued an update:-

“In terms of Tian Tian’s possible pregnancy, we’re not out of the game yet although she’s keeping us on our toes. Her hormones are following an atypical pattern, with lots of rises and dips, which make timings much harder to predict. We are continually analysing hormone and protein samples and, based on the latest results, our external experts now believe Tian Tian may have experienced her secondary progesterone spike two weeks later than the results previously available suggested. Predicting pregnancy in giant pandas isn’t straight forward and we’re all rapidly learning that Tian Tian is a panda whose behaviour and physiology appears to be more complicated than most! We are continuing to review results with international colleagues through the course of this week who are joining us for our Giant Panda Research Symposium.”

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On Friday 25 October, at Edinburgh’s award-winning Mercat Bar & Restaurant, the owner is holding a charity race night, in aid of the very worthy CLIC Sargent, which supports children and young people with cancer.

So why not jump out the office that Friday and hoof it down to the Mercat, where for only £5, this covers the entrance fee and a good feed!  Bets can be placed from £1 upwards and all proceeds will go to CLIC Sargent.  The first race will be just after 6pm.

Graham Blaikie, owner of the Mercat Bar & Restaurant said: “We want to get as many people involved as possible to raise vital funds for CLIC Sargent.  It’s a charity very close to my heart, which I’ve supported since my god daughter had leukaemia.  Over the next year, I plan to raise £10,000 from a series of events I’ll be running at the Mercat Bar and at our new sister venue, the Mercat Grill in East Lothian.

“We’d love people to get groups of friends or work colleagues together and come down for what should be a TOTE-ally brilliant evening, whilst helping raise vital cash for this excellent children’s cancer charity.”

Tickets can be booked in advance by contacting the Mercat manager Colin via info@mercatbar.com or 0800 124 4112.

The Mercat Bar & Restaurant 28 West Maitland Street Edinburgh EH12 5DX t 0800 124 4112 www.mercatbar.com

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In August 2013 The Edinburgh Reporter hit a huge milestone. The number of hits on our site went through the roof. To thank those of you who are our regular readers we have some Edinburgh Reporter Rewards to hand out over the next while. Today you will find the reward in an article under our Culture Section……You just need to look around!

Good Luck! The reward must be claimed by email before Friday 13 September 2013 at 5:00pm.

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Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, is calling everyone affected by nuisance calls to submit evidence to the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Nuisance Call’s inquiry into the unsolicited marketing industry.

The APPG, which is made up of MPs from across the UK and the political spectrum, has been set up to help the many thousands of constituents plagued by nuisance calls by investigating existing unscrupulous practices and identifying deficiencies in the current legislation. The Group launched a call for evidence into nuisance calls in July with the aim of finding a solution to the menace affecting everyone in the UK.

The written evidence will complement the oral evidence sessions in October when the APPG will hear from regulators, telecoms providers, consumer groups and solution providers.

Commenting on the inquiry, Mr Crockart said:-“I have been running a ‘No 2 Nuisance Calls’ campaign for over a year and have been contacted by many thousands of people who are sick of nuisance calls and texts. It is obvious that people are tired of being pestered by nuisance calls day in and day out. Whilst my Private Member’s Bill will go some way to reforming and improving the industry, it is not the full and permanent solution.

“I am delighted with the response to the inquiry so far. But I want to encourage as many individuals, organisations and companies as possible to submit evidence to the inquiry by Friday 13^th September; the more evidence we have the stronger the final report and its recommendations will be.

“If you want to submit evidence but you’re not sure how to there are tips on the nuisance calls help page on my website at www.mikecrockartmp.com.”

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The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service tell us that they are taking part in Doors Open Day this weekend  14-15 September 2013 by opening up Dalkeith fire station to the public.

Dalkeith fire station is opening its doors for visitors to look round the station and get the opportunity to see displays and demonstrations for free.

Doors Open Days gives free access to hundreds of fascinating buildings across Scotland. Every weekend in September visitors can explore places that are normally closed to the public. Some open up once a year, some just once in a lifetime. This is your chance to discover the architecture, design, buildings, places and spaces right on your doorstep or explore a new part of the country.

Dalkeith fire station will be open on Saturday 14 September between 10am and 4pm.

There will be various attractions during the day including a rope rescue exercise, a road traffic collision demonstration and a simulated rescue using a height appliance. There will also be the opportunity to wear a breathing apparatus (BA) set and enter our BA training pod, allowing people to get a taste of navigating in zero visibility to rescue a casualty.

There will also be members of the of the Phoenix Crew (junior fire-fighters) helping out and giving a demonstration of the skills they have developed and The British Red Cross will be on hand to offer first aid advice and show off their Fire and Emergency Support Service Vehicle.

They will be raising money for the Fire fighters Charity from donations for tea, coffee and biscuits. There will also be plastic fire helmets, toys, etc. on sale.  Parking is available in Dalkeith town centre, only a short walk from the fire station.

Staff will available to provide fire safety advice and offer free Home Fire Safety Visits.

Free Home Safety Visits, including the free supply and fitting of smoke alarms where required, are available to all households. If you cannot make it along to the Doors Open Day, you can arrange a Home Fire Safety Visit via the following:

Text ‘check’ to 61611

Call 0800 0731 999

Also taking part in Doors Open Day later this month is the Museum of Fire which will be open on 28-29 September from 10am – 4pm.

The Fire Service Headquarters in Lauriston place opened in 1900 serving as an operational station until 1986. It continues today as an administrative centre and home to the ‘Museum of Fire’. The museum holds ‘James Braidwood’s High Street appliance’ and the last remaining ‘Halley’ fire appliance in the world, which served in Leith. The building also houses a mock- up of an Edinburgh close allowing visitors to experience conditions during the great fire of Edinburgh.

Visit www.firescotland.gov.uk

Please note that the fire station is in operation throughout the day, so please do not park in front of the fire appliance bay doors.

 The Filmhouse has been making ’em laugh, cry and smile for about 35 years now. The building on Lothian Road has been altered over the years to accommodate a Cafe/Bar as well as three separate cinemas. The building is a former church and has been home to The Filmhouse since it moved there in 1978 following a spell in Randolph Crescent.

It has a reputation for showing world cinema and the kind of films you will not see elsewhere, and it is the home of the Edinburgh International Film Festival. The EIFF and the Filmhouse  formed the Centre for the Moving Image in 2009 which is a charitable body. The programme includes about 700 films and events each year. A fully accessible building the cinema also received a Go Shop Award from RNIB in 2012 in recognition of good practice.

To recognise our fabulous August visitor numbers we asked some of our contacts to offer our readers something as an Edinburgh Reporter Reward.

Our unique users in August were over 100,000 which is an amazing number of people – and two and a half times the number of people reading our website in January 2013.

Today the Edinburgh Reporter Reward we have on offer is two free tickets for a screening of your choice at The Filmhouse.

You can see what’s on at The Filmhouse this month by clicking here.

What you have to do is send us an email to theedinburghreporter@gmail.com with Edinburgh Reporter Rewards in the subject line giving us the answer The Filmhouse. The winning entry will be selected from all winning entries received by Friday 13 September at 5:00pm.

One of the films being shown this week is What Maisie Knew. Watch the trailer here:-

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwS2BUv_Tmc]

The cafe/bar is well regarded for its freshly prepared food with vegetarian and vegan options, and the good news is you can take your refreshments into the cinema with you, albeit in a plastic glass. The Filmhouse has its programme online, and the Filmhouse Player has been introduced allowing you to stream films online direct to your computer.

The work carried on here is funded by The City of Edinburgh Council, Creative Scotland and Europa Cinema and you can help too by becoming a member. This will allow you £1.50 off every ticket and invitations to special Members events. In addition there are opportunities for individual or corporate sponsors.

Follow the Filmhouse on Twitter or on Facebook.

SCOTTISH GREEN BUS FUNDING ROUND  

Lothian Buses has welcomed news of the Scottish Government’s latest round of funding from the Scottish Green Bus Fund.

Transport Scotland which recently announced the launch of the fourth round of the Scottish Green Bus Fund, is inviting bus operators, local authorities and regional transport partnerships (RTP) together with manufacturers to submit applications for funding from a total fund of £2 million.

Dr Steve Johnson, Environmental & CSR Manager at Lothian Buses said:- “Lothian Buses is delighted to learn of a fourth round of Scottish Green Bus Funding. As a company we are always looking for ways to offer greener and more sustainable travel, both for our passengers and the local environment. With the financial support from the Scottish Government we have been able to continue growing our green fleet. To date we have placed 25 hybrids into service and have a further 20 on order as a result of earlier Scottish Green Bus Fund rounds. These buses have helped trim over 1,000 tonnes per year from our carbon footprint and are persuading a significant number of car users to use the bus instead of a private car for urban journeys.”

Launched back in April, the Lothian Buses hybrid fleet serves passengers on the No. 1 bus route which provides a host of eco-friendly features and save hundreds of tonnes of CO2 emissions. The hybrid technology – powered by electricity and diesel – has a carbon footprint typically 40% lower than a diesel bus. The fleet was partially funded by a £750,000 grant from the Scottish Government’s Green Bus Fund.

A further 20 single-decker hybrids are being introduced in 2014 with Lothian Buses receiving a £1.5 million grant towards the new fleet. More than 60 per cent of Lothian Buses’ fleet now use the latest in carbon reducing technology