An 83-year-old male pedestrian was taken to The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment after being struck by a car which was being driven on Princes Street around 5.35pm on Friday, 21 June 2024. 

Officers are now appealing for information and are asking anyone with dashcam footage of the area to come forward. 

Constable Chris Beddows said: “Our enquiries are ongoing and we are now appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash to contact us. 

“We also ask motorists with dashcam footage of the area at the time to come forward.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident 2965 of 21 June, 2024. 

Let them eat cake at Leith Victoria

To celebrate the 125th anniversary of Leith Victoria Swim Centre which is one of the capital’s five Victorian pools, Edinburgh Leisure’s Acive Communities section has put out a call for any keen bakers to submit cakes and tray bakes for a fundraising event this Friday.

The Bake-Off judging will take place at 11.20 – 11.30am following a busy Aqua and yoga class that takes place earlier in the building, when participants often congregate for a coffee and a blether after. Prizes will be awarded to the best bakes.

June Peebles, Edinburgh Leisure’s previous Chief Executive, who retired in March after 38 years’ service, will be Chief Judge, along with Jen Holland, their new CEO and one of Leith Victoria’s regular customers Christine, 71 years-old, who attends 19 classes a week at the pool.

If there are any keen bakers who would like to contribute a traybake, biscuits, cookies or cake for the event, the team at Leith Victoria would love to have your support.  Get in touch with susanmcintosh@edinburghleisure.co.uk or juliaadams@edinburghleisure.co.uk 

Hustings on Friday

The Edinburgh Climate Hustings, organised by Friends of the Earth for all Edinburgh consituencies, will be held on Friday at Augustine United Church on George IV Bridge at 6pm.

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The Meadows Croquet Club AGM

The Meadows Croquet Club are holding their AGM on Friday at the club on Melville Drive. Details below.

DOOH

Keep your eyes peeled in St James Quarter.

DOOH means Digital Out Of Home – and it refers to new portrait screens provided by Ocean Outdoor set up on Multrees Walk and in St James Quarter. These “pedestrianised full motion” screens will be used to broadcast a series of summer sporting fixtures for shoppers to watch, including the Paris 2024 Olympics. St James Quarter (SJQ) has attracted around 19 million people each year since it opened in 2021.

There will also be an official fan zone set up in SJQ during the Paris Olympics when sports fans can support Team GB.

Anne Ledgerwood, estate director, St James Quarter, said: “The addition of the large format screens not only supports Ocean Outdoor bringing captivating advertising creative to the Galleria, but also provides an opportunity to enhance internal enlivenment via the live streaming of our fashion and music events or brand gamification from pop-ups and activations. We are constantly looking at ways of bringing the unexpected to the Quarter and the addition of these screens will provide another channel to engage and excite our guests.”

Former Hibs boss Nick Montgomery and his number two Sergio Raimundo have joined Ange Postecoglou’s coaching team at Tottenham Hotspur. 

Montgomery was sacked by Hibs in May just eight months after replacing Lee Johnson as head coach.  

Despite failing to make the top six at Easter Road, Montgomery remains highly thought of in the game after his success with Central Coast Mariners, where he guided the club to the A-League title in 2023. 

The pair will begin work at the start of pre-season. Raimondo’s appointment is subject to a work permit. 

Head Coach Ange Postecoglou said: “It’s also great to have Nick and Sergio join the Club, and they will add to the talented coaches we already have on the staff here. 

“Both Nick and Sergio have a wealth of coaching experience over a number of years. They have already demonstrated a strong desire to both develop young talent and implement a football style that I believe will further strengthen the environment we have established. I’m looking forward to working with them.” 

Hibs have announced the pre-contract signing of Crystal Palace midfielder Kirsten Reilly on a two-year deal until 2026. 

Reilly re-joins the club for a second time, having previously played in green and white between 2018 and 2019. 

During her first stint with the club, she played under Grant Scott and was part of the side that won a cup double in 2017/18, lifting both the SWPL Cup and Scottish Cup.  

A year later she lifted the SWPL Cup once again to claim a trio of trophies! 

Reilly also helped her side to finish second in the SWPL in 2018/19, helping the Club to qualify for the Champions League in the process. 

After her time with Hibs came to an end, she joined Bristol City – before returning to Scotland to play for Rangers where she helped the Glasgow side to their first SWPL title in the 2021/22 season. 

She then made 35 appearances for Crystal Palace across two years, helping them promotion to the WSL for the first time in their history in 2024. 

She will once again wear the number 32 shirt for the Hibees.  

She said: “I’m so excited and so glad to be back, I’ve supported the Club all my life and playing for the badge again is going to feel great. 

“The last time I was here, we won a few trophies, and that feeling was really good. It’s our aim to start doing that again!” 

Grant Scott was also delighted to work with Reilly for a second time: “I’m thrilled to have Kirsten back with us here at Hibernian. Her talent, experience, and passion for the Club makes her an invaluable addition to our squad.  

“We look forward to seeing her make an impact over the next two years.” 

An estimated 200,000 Tartan Army supporters descended on Germany for Scotland’s first overseas major tournament since 1998 and left a positive impression on the locals in the process.

The Scottish faithful supporters followed the team around the host nation for Scotland’s three group games in Munich, Cologne and Stuttgart.

Despite the team’s poor performances and failure to get out of the group stage, again, it was off the park where the Scots did their country proud.

Scotland was voted as the country with the best fans at the tournament, winning with a landslide 52% of the vote in a poll conducted by German media outlet RTL.

The mayor of Cologne – where Scotland played out a 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their second game – Henriette Reker, said: “Dear Scots, these have been a wonderful couple of days with you. I could not have been a happier mayor. You are always welcome back to Cologne!”

In fact, many locals and officials from the city located on the Rhine River hoped that Scotland would return to the city for the knockout stages and were actively cheering for Steve Clarke’s men in the final group game, which – brutally – ended in disappointment.

A local bartender said: “The Scottish like to drink so much, but they are so kind and so peaceful. They are very well behaved, and spread good vibes”

And the travelling Tartan Army have been impressed with the welcome they have received from their German hosts. 

Stuart Turner, a travelling Scottish fan, said: “From the minute we landed, we have had a hero’s welcome. The locals did not need to give any consideration to us, but they have shown us great hospitality, exceeding our expectations. We have even had instances of locals approaching us to praise our behaviour and support for our country”

The Scots returned the favour too, a video of two fans assisting an older gentleman through the rain in Cologne by holding umbrellas over him went viral and has since been advertised on German public transport.

There has also been a petition launched by a German fan, requesting an annual friendly between the two countries following the Euros.

The petition currently has more than 25,000 signatures, and while there is clearly an appetite for a regular gathering between the two supports, the Tartan Army will hope the team on the pitch can match their own heroic effort off it by improving on the 5-1 defeat in the opening game.

An historic pub saved from closure by its local community has won the fight to create a beer garden on ‘open space’ behind it. 

The Tower Inn, in Tranent, which first opened in 1902, was described as ‘the hub’ of its local community by local councillors during a meeting of East Lothian Council’s planning committee. 

The committee heard from owner Dominic McNeill how he, as a regular of the pub, and others came together to save it when it was threatened with closure two years ago, eventually leading to him taking it on. 

Plans to extend an outside drinking area on decking at the back of the pub however came to a halt after council officers said it required planning permission. 

But at today’s planning meeting, councillors heard that while the land at the back of the pub was described as open space and used by the public it was privately owned – and the owner had given Mr McNeill permission to use it for the garden. 

Mr McNeill told the committee the aim of the outdoor drinking area was to allow all people to come to the pub. 

He said: “It is a community pub which was demonstrated by the campaign to stop it closing. The aim is to create a garden space for everyone to come.” 

Planning officers had recommended the application for the beer garden, along with a fence and gate, should be rejected as it is within Tranent Conservation Area . 

Recommending the committee refuse planning permission officers said: “The change of use of the area of open space to a beer garden and its enclosure with a 1.8m high timber fence and gates would separate that area of land from the larger area of open space of which it is currently a part. 

“This would harm the landscape setting of the area and undermine the contribution this area of open space makes to the visual amenity of the area.” 

However ward councillors said they had been approached by local residents who were concerned that the pub was facing refusal and wanted to see it thrive. 

Councillor Lee-Anne Menzies said describing the land as ‘open space’ was not accurate adding: “It is just somewhere people let their dogs off.” 

Councillor Menzies called in the application for the committee to decide along with fellow ward Councillor Colin McGinn, after officers recommended it for refusal. 

Councillor McGinn said: “We are losing good community pubs hand over fist across the county and this one would have shut without the intervention of Mr McNeill and another businessman and the community who supported them. 

“He has brought it back to life and it is a focal point. I am really pleased to support this business.” 

The committee unanimously agreed to reject their officers recommendation and grant planning permission for the new garden, fencing and gate. 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Candidates vying to be the next MP for Edinburgh North and Leith have clashed over Gaza, net zero and their stance on the two-child benefit cap. 

An election hustings hosted by the Brougton Spurtle community newspaper on Monday, June 24 saw a lively audience field questions to hopefuls standing in the constituency, which has been held by the SNP since 2015 but which polls indicate could be re-gained by Labour next week. 

The most heated point of the evening came when a member of the audience in the packed-out Brougton St Marys Parish Church asked what each party would do about the “ongoing genocide in Gaza”. 

Labour’s candidate Tracy Gilbert – who introduced herself as a lifelong resident of the area who would would work “tirelessly” if elected – said as a trade unionist she had campaigned for a two state solution for decades. 

She said: “We have called for an immediate ceasefire…clearly the atrocities we see unfold on our screens are just awful. What we must do is provide a lasting peace for both the Israeli people and the Palestinian people and I hope that happens.” 

Deidre Brock, the contituency’s MP for nearly a decade, said the only reason Labour had called for a ceasefire in Gaza was “simply because the SNP forced them to that position” 

She said: “I am really disappointed to think that if the whole of the parliament had united behind that first motion the strong message  the UK parliament could have sent to Israel was lost.” 

Reform UK’s candidate Alan Melville – who admitted he hadn’t read his own party’s manifesto despite it being released over a week ago – was met with heckles as he was handed the microphone and asked “what genocide?”. 

Responding to a heckler, he said: “I do not care, sir,” adding: “Israel  is attempting to wipe out an organisation that will never, ever compromise” which received some applause from the audience. 

Jo Mowat from the Scottish Conservatives, who is an Edinburgh City Centre councillor, said: “A ceasefire requires both sides to lay down their weapons and agree not to kill the other side. So until Hamas can make that commitment, we can’t expect there to be a ceasefire.” 

An audience member interjected asking if she thought Israel should make the same commitment, to which she replied: “Yes, both sides should make that commitment so we can deliver a two-state lasting peace.” 

While Liberal Democrat candidate Mike Andersen said: “We want those who have committed atrocities to be investigated and held responsible for their actions. 

“Furthermore we want the UK to stand on the right side of history on this and that’s why we also support an immediate ban on the sale of weapons to countries that do not uphold human rights.” 

Another hot topic during the two-hour hustings was net zero and how the country should make the transition to cleaner energy. 

“How will your party prioritise and fund practical measures to address this?” candidates were asked. 

Touting one of her party’s flagship manifesto promises, Ms Gilbert highlighted Labour’s commitment to delivering GB Energy “which will be a publicly-owned energy company that will invest £8.3 billion of public investment in that to partner with the private sector to deliver better green jobs”. 

She added under a new Labour government there would be no new oil and gas licenses, the use of onshore wind doubled and solar power tripled. 

Ms Brock said nuclear power was not a viable option currently. “There are about 80 examples of nuclear modular reactors in production at the moment but nothing actually working at this time. It will be 10 years before that comes on stream,” she said. 

“In the meantime, we could be investing in wind, solar, in tidal and also retrofitting insulation into our leaky houses. Actually reducing our reliance on energy is a really important way forward as well.” 

Earlier in the debate Mr Melville said he was “unique” among all candidates “because we don’t agree with things like net zero”. Responding to the question, he called it “nonsense”. 

He added: “I do not believe there is an issue with carbon dioxide levels, I think they are overstated as a factor of the changing climate. 

“Are we accelerating it? yes. Should we deal with environmental degradation? yes. But I am not certain I want to go down the net zero path which will lead to the job losses of all the tens of thousands of people in the North Sea, all the people working in power stations and all the industries we have simply offshored.” 

Mr Andersen – a self-described “accidental politician” who moved to Scotland from South Africa a few years ago – said: “A lot of people are doing their best and are trying what they can and we need to be there to support that move. 

“We need to move towards net zero which we have set a target of 2045, we also want to move towards zero emission by 2030 and put a lot more charging points around to make electric cars more affordable to people. 

“We want to help people in their homes with heat pumps and solar so we want to be there to help people to make the decisions and choices they can to help to the environment.” 

Ms Mowat said the Tories “have committed to net zero” and “how we get there without ruining the economy”. 

She added: “There’s no point in having no economy and net zero.” 

They were then questioned if they had led by example by changing their own gas boilers to a more energy efficient system such as a heat pump, however while some said they were exploring options none had yet taken that step. 

Hopefuls were then asked if their party would scrap the controversial policy introduced by the UK Government in 2017 that limits the amount of benefits families can receive if they have more than two children. The Institute for Fiscal Studies says this has helped drive up the number of children in large families who are in poverty from 35 per cent in 2014 to 46 per cent in 2022. 

Ms Gilbert said: “We oppose it, we are right to oppose it and will continue to oppose it.” 

However she added: “It’s not written into the manifesto… that alone will not be enough to lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty. 

“We have a commitment in this manifesto to look at Universal Credit and as part of that that will also lift children out of poverty along with the new deal for working people which will lift 200,000 families out of poverty.” 

Taking aim at Labour’s position Ms Brock said the party retaining the two-child benefits  cap, but removing the cap from bankers’ bonuses “sends quite a strong message to people about where Labour’s priorities are”. 

She said: “I think the Scottish Child Payment the Scottish Government has been brought in – and which has been lauded by organisations like Joseph Rowntree – is making a huge difference to child poverty statistics. 

“The two child benefit cap is likely to see many hundred thousand more children slide into poverty as a result of it, it has to be stopped.” 

Mr Andersen said: “A lot of people are one pay check away from poverty, we need to be there with a safety net for that, so the simple answer to the question is we would scrap the two child limit, we’d scrap the benefit cap and we would remove the bedroom tax.” 

Keeping things concise, Ms Mowat said: “No we don’t plan any changes to these policies” which was met with some cries of “shame” from the audience. 

And Mr Melville said Reform “have not made any commitment either way”. 

He added: “Is it wrong? It’s probably wrong but at the same time can the country afford to make the change? That has to be looked at because that’s what grown up politicians have to do.” 

All candidates standing in Edinburgh North and Leith are:  

• Scottish Liberal Democrats – ANDERSEN, Mike 
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – BROCK, Deidre 
• Scottish Family Party – Defending Traditional Values – DEEPNARAIN, Niel 
• Scottish Labour Party – GILBERT, Tracy 
• Socialist Labour Party – JACOBSEN, David Don 
• Reform UK – MELVILLE, Alan Gordon 
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – MOWAT, Joanna 
• Scottish Greens – O’NEILL, Kayleigh Ferguson 
• Communist Party of Britain – SHILLCOCK, Richard Charles 
• Independent – WATERLOO, Caroline 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Sports brand, adidas, will open a new store at Fort Kinnaird on Friday.

The new 11,000 sq ft store, located near to TK Maxx, Hotel Chocolate and Pandora, is the brand’s first ‘The Pulse’ store in the UK, giving visitors the chance to shop a broad range of adidas’ most popular products.

This includes everything from trainers and gym wear to running gear and accessories. The new Pulse store reflects commercial demand and consumer need. From uplifting design treatments to digital content, Pulse sets a new benchmark across the adidas retail store landscape without compromising on the well sought after product our consumers love.

The grand opening of our new store promises to be a memorable experience, with a lively atmosphere featuring a DJ to entertain shoppers. Consumers can enjoy branded snacks and receive branded bags upon purchase while having the chance to win exciting prizes and gift vouchers.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s incredibly exciting that adidas has chosen Fort Kinnaird as the first location in the UK to open its new Pulse store. It’s no secret how popular the brand is and we have no doubt the store will prove to be successful with our shoppers – whether they’re looking for a pair of new trainers or getting some of the latest gym wear.

“It’s a really exciting time for us, with Mango also opening recently, our different options for fashion are really growing.”

adidas will join Next, Pandora, H&M and JD Sports already based at the centre.

www.fortkinnaird.com

The council runs the election count and has advice on how to vote on its website.

If you applied for a postal vote by 7 June, then it will have been posted out and should arrive soon if you have not already received it.

If you applied for a postal vote between 8-19 June it will be sent out by this weekend. Further information can be found on the council website.

Please fill your postal vote in as soon as possible once you receive it and post it back to the address on the envelope.

When filling out your postal vote if you have separated the statement from envelope the advice is that this is not an issue – just send everything back in the envelope – and while the advice is to use black ink, don’t worry about using blue ink.

If you need a proxy vote, where someone votes on your behalf, the deadline for new applications is tomorrow Wednesday 26 June at 5pm. Guidance on proxy votes is available on the council website.

If you are going to vote in person, this is the first UK General Election where voters must show a form of photo identification (ID) to cast their ballot. A list of approved forms of ID and information on how to obtain a free Voter Authority Certificate are also available on the website.

The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate to vote in the 2024 General Election is also tomorrow Wednesday 26 June at 5pm.

There is a full list of candidates standing in Edinburgh’s five parliamentary constituencies here.

Two teenagers aged 17 and 18 and a 54-year-old man have been arrested following a serious assault on Great Junction Street Edinburgh  which took place around 10.05pm on Monday. 

As a result of the incident two men, both aged 35, were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. 

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and officers remain in the area.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 10.05pm on Monday, 24 June, 2024, we received a report of two men seriously injured in the Great Junction Street area of Edinburgh. 

“Emergency services attended and a 35-year-old man was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment. 

“The second man, also 35, was traced a short time later at Bellevue Place and taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. 

“A 17-year-old male youth and two men, aged 18 and 54, have been arrested in connection with the incident and drug offences. 

“Enquiries are ongoing. 

“Officers remain in the area and anyone with any information or concerns can approach these officers.” 

Hibs midfielder Dan MacKay has joined Partick Thistle on a free transfer. 

Since joining the Hibs in summer 2021, MacKay has gone on to make seven competitive appearances for the Club, scoring one goal. 

MacKay has spent the majority of his time out on loan.  

Initially he was with Kilmarnock FC before spending the 2022/23 season at Inverness Caledonian Thistle – where he scored five times in 40 appearances for the Championship side.  

Last season he turned out 29 times for Livingston in the Premiership, having five goal contributions. 

A Hibs spokesperson said: “Everyone at the Club wishes Dan the best of luck for the future.” 

The leader of the Scottish Conservatives has said his party will “absolutely” cut the number of homeless people in Edinburgh if it wins the election. 

Douglas Ross said homelessness was “one of the biggest issues” – despite not mentioning it in his speech unveiling the Scottish Tory manifesto in Edinburgh on Monday, June 24. 

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service after the launch he said it was a “blight” in the capital, where there are now a record 5,000 households registered as homeless, “and indeed many other parts of the country.”  

While the number of people in the city without a permanent residence has soared by more than 50 per cent under successive UK Conservative governments since 2010, the manifesto lays the blame firmly at the door of the party which has held power at Holyrood even longer. 

“Scotland is facing a housing emergency caused by the SNP,” it says, citing the Scottish Government’s rent cap “backfiring just like we warned it would”, and a failure to build enough affordable homes. 

So after almost a decade and a half in power what would the Tories do in the next parliament to end homelessness once and for all in Edinburgh? 

Mr Ross said the key was to strengthen links between the government and local councils “to make sure there are properties available for people to get into housing and to get out of homelessness”. 

He said: “One of the things we’ve seen is people who are continually becoming homeless don’t get the support they need from every local authority across Scotland.” 

In terms of concrete steps, the manifesto proposes setting up a “Scottish Housing Delivery Agency to increase builds of all types, especially affordable homes”. 

It includes a promise to “build more homes, while ensuring the Green Belt is protected”. 

However construction would only take place “where there is clear community consent” – a position which critics argue would prevent the level of housebuilding needed to be progressed. 

The party also wants to set up a “national Housing First programme” which it says could work to “end homelessness in Scotland”. 

Mr Ross said: “What we’ve got in the manifesto is a commitment to roll-out that scheme across all 32 local authorities to tackle homelessness because it’s not just the individuals themselves but it’s the families that are affected.” 

Asked if he could guarantee a vote for the Scottish Conservatives would bring homelessness down in Edinburgh, Mr Ross replied: “Yes, absolutely, we’ve got to focus on this issue. It’s a blight here in Edinburgh and indeed many other parts of the country.” 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Hibs midfielder Murray Aiken has joined Airdrieonians on loan until 1 January, 2025. 

Aitken re-joins the Diamonds where he spent the duration of the 2023/24 campaign. 

Last season, the midfielder got off to a great start winning the Club’s Player of the Month Award in September 2023, featuring 18 times in total and helping Airdrieonians reach the play-off semi final. 

The 19-year-old will now return to Rhys McCabe’s side for the first half of the 2024/25 campaign. 

On the loan move, Hibernian FC Sporting Director Malky Mackay commented: “This is another good opportunity for Murray to gain more experience playing senior football at a good level and a club that he knows well. 

“Murray impressed during his first loan spell with Airdrieonians last season, and this is a good chance for him to build on that and get more minutes under his belt between now and the end of the year. 

“I’d like to thank Airdrie for the smooth handling of the loan and we look forward to seeing how he progresses.” 

Midlothian councillors have backed a call for schools to be banned from demanding children wear uniforms with school logos on them. 

A motion brought to a meeting of the council said the cost of a uniform with a school emblem sown on can be more than three times the cost of a basic unbranded version. 

And it called on councillors to help families cut the cost by backing an immediate stop to schools being able to demand parents buy the more expensive outfits. 

The Labour group motion brought by Councillors Kelly Drummond and Stephen Curran was backed by SNP council leader Kelly Parry. 

It  aid: “One of the main reasons for the introduction of school uniforms was to reduce the financial pressures on families. 

“Over the years the cost of embroidered jerseys, sweatshirts, polo shirts and tee shirts has become far more expensive than buying plain coloured ones from retail or online stores. This is partly due to the fact that there is little competition in this market.” 

The motion gave  as an example the cost for families of buying six red polo shirts for a 9-10year-old from Marks & Spencer at £24 and six red sweatshirts for the same age at £36 – a total cost of £60. 

It said buying the same six polo shirts with an embroidered logo would cost £88.20 with a further £103.20 for six branded sweaters – a total of  £191.40. 

Many schools across the county already make the school logo optional with some promoting supermarket chains as possible suppliers on their websites. 

Low income families in Midlothian can also apply for a school uniform grant from the local authority which  is worth £120 for primary aged children. 

Councillor David Virgo, Conservatives, raised concerns that bringing in the ban after many families had already forked out for embroidered clothing would create an inequality among pupils. 

He said: “Many of the events where uniform requirements are discussed have already taken place for the coming year.” 

However Councillor Derek Milligan said there were some families who could not afford to pay for the more expensive uniforms and were already being identified by the demand. 

He said: “There is a small cohort of families who cannot buy the embroidered uniforms or have to go without food or heating to buy them so they are already being identified.” 

Councillors unanimously agreed to back the motion. 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Kirsty Morrison has signed a one-year contract extension with Hibs Women. 

Morrison made her 100th appearance for the Club last season and marked the occasion by wearing the captain’s armband for the Scottish Cup match against Rangers. 

Returning from injury in the second half of the 23/24 season, Morrison came into her own, scoring the opening goal in the mammoth 10-0 Scottish Cup victory against St Johnstone, also netting in an empathic 7-0 victory against Aberdeen in the SWPL. 

Contributing a further five assists to the team in the last campaign, she proved herself to be a valuable asset for Grant Scott’s side. 

The number 29 made her first team debut in 2019 after spending over a decade at the club, progressing through the Girls Academy. 

On her new extension, Morrison  was delighted to extend her stay at the club: “I’m thrilled to continue my journey with Hibernian. The support from the Club and the fans has been great, and I look forward to contributing to the team for the upcoming season.” 

I’ve been at this club for a long time, so I’m looking forward to another year and looking forward to what that brings.” 

Grant Scott commented on having Morrison for the 24/25 season saying: “Securing Kirsty for another year is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to the team. 

Her commitment and consistent performances have been invaluable following her return from injury, and we’re pleased to have her continue to be a vital part of the squad.” 

Growing numbers of children in West Lothian have been identified with Additional Support Needs – as the council was praised for the help it provided. 

Across primary schools in the county 31% of pupils have ASN and in high schools it’s 46%.  

The figures have risen by 10 % in the last five years. 

They cover a broad spectrum of needs and present the council with higher demands and greater parental expectation. 

Service Manager Kristyna Macsween told a meeting of West Lothian Council’s Performance Committee: “The service is facing significant pressures and growing demand on resources due to an increased number of pupils with additional support needs.” 

It came as councillors heard that the partnership and multi service approach in the county has made it a front runner in local authorities in providing inclusive education. 

Recent surveys of head teachers and families returned overwhelmingly positive responses to the work of the service within schools and with parents and families. A survey showed positive responses in excess of 90% from schools and – families. 

This has seen a drop in placement appeals and tribunals and a service more centred on pupil needs. 

That recognition of the breadth of support offered has seen the council drop the term Additional Support Needs in favour of Educational Support Needs. 

West Lothian has led other authorities with a presumption in favour of mainstream education for the last 19 years to bring children into schools to help build peer relationships as part of their education. This is done through additional work with staffing in schools and extra help through ASN staff. 

Mrs Macsween told councillors  that schools worked hard to develop inclusivity into daily life. The programme is very family focused, with the emphasis on doing what was right for each individual child.  

 She said: “When it’s right it’s right, and when it’s not we know that too. We need to make sure we give every opportunity to a child. It is challenging, but we are here to support the child.” 

Councillor Tony Boyle asked: “Are there any other local authorities starting to follow the West Lothian example?” 

Mrs Macsween said there had been “reach out from several local authorities”. Inter-service links between local council already exists. 

A report to the Performance Committee said that as a result of growing numbers of children and young people being assessed with ASN: “The service has expanded significantly over this period, building capacity and broader skills and expertise in order to meet the needs of families in West Lothian.  

“The service has been rebranded as the ‘Education Support Service’ from ‘Additional Support Needs’ to emphasise the importance of supporting every child and inclusion across the whole of West Lothian communities.” 

Chairing the meeting, Councillor Peter Heggie asked why there was wide variation in ASN figures in some schools. Deprivation is a major contributory  factor.  

The report added: “The service recognised there are opportunities to increase the level and quality of feedback from customers. This includes improving response rates to customer perception surveys in order to ensure that the service has a clear understanding of customer experience at each stage of their journey. 

“The service recognised there are opportunities to increase the level and quality of feedback from customers. This includes improving response rates to customer perception surveys in order to ensure that the service has a clear understanding of customer experience at each stage of their journey.” 

Councillors praised the efforts of the team and thanked Mrs Macsween for her comprehensive report. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Professional services firm Pinsent Masons has appointed two Edinburgh-based partners as global sector heads, underlining the depth of legal talent available throughout its offices in Scotland.

Julia Maguire, previously Head of Client Relationships in the energy sector, takes on the global sector head role for Energy, while John Maciver, formerly Head of Banking for Scotland and Northern Ireland, has been named the firm’s global sector head for Financial Services.

Maguire is a transactional construction specialist focused on energy projects in the UK and overseas, advising clients on procurement and contracting strategy

implementation. She leads multi-disciplinary teams delivering critical support for clients on major energy infrastructure schemes globally, including current advisory roles on multiple offshore windfarm projects in the ScotWind leasing round and the Crown Estate Round 4 leasing round.

Maciver is an experienced transactional finance lawyer specialising in all aspects of banking and finance work, acting for lenders, borrowers and other loan market participants. High-profile mandates he has advised on recently include acting for NatWest on their financing of Lone Star’s £111 million acquisition of Union Square retail mall in Aberdeen, and advising Scottish National Investment Bank and UK Infrastructure Bank on a £100 million joint credit facility for Ardersier Port owners Haventus.

Katharine Hardie, Chair of Pinsent Masons in Scotland, said: “The appointments of Julia and John to these globally significant leadership roles demonstrate the quality of legal expertise we have in Scotland and a deep sector knowledge and understanding of the markets they operate in.

“Both have made enormous contributions to our practice over many years and I have no doubt they will be a great success in helping drive our global offering in energy and financial services respectively.”

Pinsent Masons employs more than 3,300 lawyers and support staff in 26 international offices, of which approximately 550 are based at the firm’s offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Leading Edinburgh based charity Salvesen Mindroom Centre that champions all forms of neurodiversity and supports all kinds of minds, has appointed investment veteran Ed Troughton as the new chairman of its Board of Trustees. 

A former Army officer who has also chaired Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre, Ed brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing the mission of  Mindroom.  

Commenting on his appointment, Ed said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been asked to chair such a wonderful organisation as Mindroom. Neurodiversity affects us all in so many different ways, whether it be directly or indirectly, within our families or at our workplace.  

“Mindroom has already helped so many individuals and families but there is so much more that can be done. The charity is ideally placed with its ability to call on world leading research from Edinburgh University and I am looking forward immensely to working with an impressive group of Trustees and a talented executive to help improve the lives of so many who are affected by neurodiversity.” 

With a distinguished professional life spanning almost 40 years in the investment industry, Ed started his career with Barings Asset Management in Hong Kong following a commission with the Royal Hussars. 

He has held significant roles in business development and client relations, including an eight-year stint as Managing Director with asset managers BlackRock where he was responsible for institutional relationships and business development across Asia, the UK, and the Middle East.  

Alan Thornburrow, CEO of Salvesen Mindroom Centre, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ed as our new chairman. His extensive experience and dedication to our cause will be invaluable as we continue to develop our service and advocacy efforts. Ed’s leadership will be crucial in guiding our strategy and ensuring we make a positive difference in the lives of those we support.” 

Ed takes over the Chair role from former Chief Executive and Chair of Johnston Carmichael, Sandy Manson, who assumed the role in early 2020. Sandy said, “Salvesen Mindroom has been one of the most impactful and pioneering charities I have had the good fortune to be involved with. The value of Mindroom’s work on neurodiversity is priceless and the opportunities for supporting individuals, families and employers the length and breadth of the country is greater than ever. Ed’s leadership of the existing highly capable team will I know take Mindroom from strength the strength on the next stage of its exciting and impactful journey. 

Mindroom has been at the forefront of advocating for and supporting people with all forms of neurodiversity across Scotland. Under Ed’s chairmanship, the charity aims to further enhance its programmes, expand its outreach, and strengthen its partnerships within the community. For more information on Salvesen Mindroom Centre go to  https://www.mindroom.org/ 

Alastair Shields is the Scottish Conservatives candidate for Edinburgh West in the July UK election.

Here I speak with him about the reasons for his candidacy and the main issues he believes impact the constituency.

Mr Shields grew up in West Edinburgh and represented the Almond Ward on The City of Edinburgh Council, albeit as a member of the Liberal Democrats and subsequently as an independent councillor, from 2012 until 2017. He has since become chairman of the Edinburgh West Conservative branch.

I asked him what he felt were the big issues on voters’ minds in Edinburgh West, and he was quick to note population growth, and its threat to green spaces, as one of the most important. He argued that these green spaces are an important reason why people have moved to areas like Cammo, Dalmeny, Cramond, South Queensferry and Kirkliston.

He said: “There’s nothing wrong with population growth as long as it’s managed well, but I don’t think it particularly has. The need for the explosion of housing has meant that our schools are full. Some struggle to get their GP appointments because there’s so many people and not enough GPs or GP practices or services, or dental services.

“The green spaces are valuable for so many things. People might say, “Oh well, they’re just there to look at, no one uses them”, but that’s not the case. Edinburgh West has a plethora of clubs, societies, and organisations that work towards natural heritage and fishing clubs and sports groups that want to make the very best out of these kind of things.

“If you look at an area like Cammo, people like the hybrid setting of having suburbia and rural territory around them. But that’s all kind of been destroyed if all you’re doing is building over that, and then you have this cluster of housing – where you’ve just got no real thought in advance about it other than just housing, housing, housing – everyone bunched in together, and then no space for people to grow their family, expand their family, or have opportunities for their children to do more.”

“I think that is something quite unique to Edinburgh West compared to other parts of the city. I do appreciate, though, that that is something that other parts of the city have experienced themselves as well, but more so from my experience here, it’s particularly acute here.”

But Mr Shields will have to deal with more than the local issues to get round the controversies of the national Conservative government of the last fourteen years. I asked him how voters have responded to him and his campaign on the doorstep as the constituency’s Tory candidate.

He told me that it’s been “mixed bag”, largely due to those national issues that are not in his control.

He said: “It depends largely on the area that you’re canvassing in and where we’ve got a stronghold where whatever happens, we’ll always have that support. And then we have wavering support where people have supported us for years, and the situations which we know have happened – and we’re not trying to say didn’t happen – you know, the issues that happened in the last couple of years in Westminster with the Conservative change from Boris Johnson to Liz Truss to Rishi Sunak. Then, we’ve got people who are just Lib Dem because it’s the best option.”

Mr Shields also argued, however, that voters’ minds are on the prospect of a UK Labour government and what it will mean to them. One of the concerns raised to the candidate on the doorstep was a Labour government’s impact on private schools.

He said: “In some of the areas near the private schools within the constituency – thinking of areas like St. George’s School for Girls – there are some Murrayfield residents around there that are concerned about the Labour proposal for VAT on private school fees and that’s come up quite a lot quite a lot. So people are less thinking necessarily always about SNP and Lib Dem, they’re thinking about the threat of a Labour government and then thinking well actually, is a Conservative government so bad? No one’s necessarily said that, but it does allow you to think a little bit about maybe the reason about why this election has been called.

“Yeah, we’ve been in power for 14 years, but you can think about stability in the sense that we’ve managed to get the economy back on track. You’ve got two chancellors from Downing Street, in the sense that Rishi was one and you’ve got Jeremy Hunt as incumbent – and they’ve done extremely well in reducing that inflation rate figure from what it was. People are more conscious of that and I think, as we lead to polling day – when you heard about Reform being one point ahead of Conservatives from the polls – well, that’s now, but it’s a different story when you’re actually coming to the reality of going to that ballot box or polling day. Are you going to vote Reform? And it’s the same kind of thing we said of people that would lambast the Conservatives and say, “get them out, they’ve caused chaos,” I think people will think about their homes, their mortgage, their families, their children’s education, their own health, the health of others around them, the state of their roads and repairs and act on it.”

At Mr Shield’s reference to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the memory of his numerous gaffes since calling the election under the pouring rain in late May came flooding back to me. Does the candidate still have faith in the Prime Minister?

He replied: “I believe so. As I say, he’s made some misjudgments and things that he’s been open about. He has served as chancellor. He did that job very well during Covid times – the furlough scheme, particularly. The public can be unforgiving at times, and sometimes rightly so, sometimes harshly. But I think that he is somebody who’s got that background and I think he’s developing that resilience and I think that a lot of people just aren’t sure about Keir Starmer as well at this particular time. I think you’ll see a different type of Conservatives in the next Parliament as the continuing government, if we have the fortune of winning.”

When I asked about his change of allegiance from the Liberal Democrats to the Conservatives, Mr Shields denied there was “an ideological sort of motive” to having joined the Liberal Democrats to begin with – they were just the only game in town.

He said: “When I was 24, I joined the Liberal Democrats, so that was 15 years ago, and I was living in Corstorphine. I wanted to get politically involved and I thought that they’ve got an office just up the road. It was just becoming active in the community. By that point, they’ve been holding the seat for 12 years, and by fairly seismic kind of votes.

“I got involved with them to the extent of becoming a Council candidate a few years later, which I didn’t expect to win but did so and I became a councillor, which was a fantastic experience. Three years in, a very early-on selection opportunity came up to which I lost quite heavily and it was a bit deflating.

“It’s never really been truly explained to me by membership or others as to why I was no longer favoured. I thought I’d done things to a reasonable standard and been fairly involved, so I thought the most respectful thing on both sides is to stand down from the party, just becoming independent, if I’m not really a fit for the party. I was an independent for about 18 months before my Council term ran down.

“When I was independent, I got more involved with the Conservative group and was supportive with them on the Council, supporting them with their budget, sitting in committees and I tended to align myself more with their values. I’m not shy about or embarrassed about the question because it will always come up as long as we’re involved in politics. And I guess sometimes it might confuse people. But there is a narrative behind it. Largely, it’s about the threat of independence. I think the SNP will be out, but that that’s not to say that they couldn’t be back in 10 years’ time with another figurehead who brings it all back up to where it was before. So it’s a case of just being very vigilant around it. And I think that can only be done with the Conservatives. So that’s largely my main incentive for being involved in the party to this extent as well.”

And does he think he can win?

After a moment’s hesitation, he replied that he knows it will be a “challenge” to unseat the Liberal Democrats in Edinburgh West, but that “all bets are off” in this election.

He said: “When Rishi stood outside in the rain at Downing Street, [it looked like] political suicide, and this is a man walking the plank for six weeks. But rationale kicks in and I don’t think the people of Edinburgh West are mugs, and it’s not in me to represent mugs. It’s in me to represent people who are like me who see the same things every day who probably complain about the same things over the dinner table to each other about local things that don’t seemingly get done. I’ve got a couple of hustings events coming up in the next few weeks. If no one turns up, I’ll probably think that’s the Lib Dems again.

“Never write off anything. Who knows? We’ve all seen shocks in politics. I think that I’ve got the right credentials, the right attitude, the right personality to be involved. I think I would be a first class MP, particularly for an area that I know well and have grown up in and lived in and continue to live in to this day. We’ve been Conservative before; things change. Things have evolved over time. Maybe we’re into a time now where people are just a little bit fed up with the status quo.”

Police Scotland has released images of two men they wish to speak to who may be able to assist enquiries into an assault which took place in Edinburgh city centre on Saturday, 16 March, 2024. 

The incident took place inside a premises in Cowgate around 11pm. 

Officers urge the two men in the images or anyone who may know them to please contact Police Scotland. 

The first man (pictured left) is described as white, average build, approximately 5ft 8ins in height with short brown hair.  

He was seen to be wearing a long sleeved brown top and jeans and spoke with a local Edinburgh accent. 

The second man (pictured right) is described as white, average build, approximately 5ft 8ins in height with dark hair.  

He was seen to be wearing a long sleeved blue/grey top and spoke with a local Edinburgh accent. 

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 4107 of 17 March 2024. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously. 

Southside Community Council Hustings – cancelled

The community council was to hold an election hustings tonight but that has been cancelled.

There is another on Tuesday evening at 6.30 at the Greyfriars Charteris Centre, 140 Pleasance when candidates from Edinburgh East and Musselburgh will answer questions.

You can also join by Zoom here.

Corstorphine Community Council will meet this evening on Teams

Edinburgh Tenants Federation drop in sessions

The council and the ETF are running several drop in sessions in the next few weeks all about the Tenants’ Participation Strategy. Have your say by getting along to the session on Niddrie Mains Road today or other venues in a couple of weeks time.

Support local independent journalism

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Click on the image of our front page below.

Edinburgh Trade Union Council Election Hustings

These will take place on Thursday.

TODAY’S Featured image is from Holyrood on Tuesday when Friends of the Earth brought the matter of electrical waste to the attention of politicians discussing the Circular Economy Bill.

The company which is developing the new Edinburgh Arena at Edinburgh Park, AEG Global Partnerships, the award-winning sponsorships arm of the leading live sport and entertainment company AEG Europe, is actively seeking a naming rights partner.

Councillors approved planning permission for the new venue, which will offer a fresh opportunity for brands to engage with live entertainment fans in the capital. The arena will form an important part of the evolving Edinburgh Park development, and is expected to create over 1000 jobs and add an estimated £520 million to Edinburgh’s economy.

Paul Samuels, Executive Vice President, AEG Global Partnerships, said: “Edinburgh residents are one of the most active listeners of music per capita in the UK – even more so than London – and those entertainment fans have been missing an arena for too long. Our team is behind some of the most iconic partnerships in the world, including The O2 in London, and we’re now looking for an ambitious business who can seize this rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with both hands.”

The name of any business which takes up the naming rights will be placed front and centre in the new building.

A naming rights partner usually benefits from an increase in recognition after the first twelve months making it an incredibly powerful addition to any big company’s marketing programme.

In addition to exclusive IP and designation, the naming rights partner will have a rare opportunity to have the brand integrated into the fabric of the venue, both inside and out. Each partnership is different and AEG Global Partnerships will collaborate with the naming rights partner to tailor the right asset mix, with options including:

• Signature experiences – Exclusive lounges and upgrade rights
• Landmark ticketing – Exclusive pre-sale partner rights
• Social impact – Co-created programmes that make a difference to communities and causes
• Digital out-of-home (OOH) – Leading share of voice across the campus broadcast circuit
• Website and database – Branding across website and targeted promotion to databases
• Product integration – Unique integrations at relevant touchpoints
• Engaging experiential – Access to promotional slots in experiential areas across the site
• Impactful branding – Dynamic branding across high traffic static assets

Along with naming rights partners, AEG Global Partnerships is seeking category partners who will be able to elevate the experiences of those visiting the venue, leaving them with memories they never forget.

Nathan Kosky, Vice President, Global Partnerships, AEG Europe said: “Being part of an evening that fans have looked forward to for months, years, or even a lifetime can help build amazing relationships with both prospective and existing customers, as well as ensuring your brand is a household name.”

Once an external contractor has been appointed and finance raised, construction is proposed to begin in 2025 and will continue over the course of two years, with the aim of delivering the first event in 2027.

Campaigners piled electrical waste outside The Scottish Parliament on Monday ahead of the final debate on a new Circular Economy law on Wednesday. 

The Friends of the Earth say MSPs need to do more to improve the way electrical waste is managed and are calling for changes in the final version of the law. 

The circular economy bill is being debated and voted on in the Scottish Parliament this week and this will be the last chance for MSPs to improve the bill. 

 Friends of the Earth Scotland are campaigning for the circular economy bill to include a plan for the materials required in the transition away from fossil fuels, many of which are also used in consumer electronics.

Police Scotland has released images of a man they believe may be able to assist their enquiries into an assault which occurred outside the Ann Rowling building at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh on Thursday, 16 May 2024 at around 1.35pm.  

Officers believe that the man shown in the images may have information that could assist them and would urge the man or any members of the public who recognise him to contact police. 

The man is described as being of Asian appearance, 5ft 9ins in height and of large build with short, black hair and a beard.  

He was wearing a black top, black padded jacket, green cargo trousers with black and yellow trainers.  

Constable Hazel Longworth said “I’m appealing to the man pictured or anyone who has information relating to him to contact police”.  

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 2042 of 16 May 2024. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.” 

When Rishi Sunak took the stage in Edinburgh on Monday it was a bit of a farewell to Douglas Ross as the Prime Minister thanked him for his leadership and standing up to the SNP both now and in the 2021 Scottish election.

Ross has already said he will step down as leader after the election and will quit as an MSP if he is elected to Westminster in the seat recently held by David Duguid.

This was a real contrast to the campaign gathering in 2019 when Theresa May was Prime Minister. Then she leapt onto a stage in the centre of a removal firm’s warehouse in Granton with Ruth Davidson, then Scottish Conservatives leader just a couple of days before polling day. Then her message was all about denying Scotland any more referenda on independence and building a Better Britain with a “stronger more prosperous future” by getting the best Brexit deal. Now nobody is talking about Brexit.

On Monday in the hotel in the Grassmarket security was tight and the organisation a good deal slicker.

Mr Sunak wasted no time in attacking the SNP saying that they have let down Scotland with an obsession over independence which – if they gain a majority of Scottish MPs at this election would mean another five years of campaigning for secession.

He continued: “Their independence obsession means that they’ve neglected everything else, letting down Scotland’s children, letting down this country. All elections have consequences. But this vote in Scotland matters so much, it will determine whether we have MPs focused on the real priorities of the Scottish people, or whether the divisive constitutional wrangling of the last decade continues.”

The Prime Minister sounded genuinely weary when he said: “A vote for the Scottish Conservatives is a vote to put this issue to bed, to move past these tired and stale arguments, and to go forward united and together. Page one, line one of their manifesto. They have put their political obsession on the line. The 4 July is Scotland’s chance to end the decade of division, to put independence on the back burner for a generation, to get back to the issues that really matter to communities up and down this country.”

On other matters he focused on taxation. He said: “We want to give you financial security, so we will cut your taxes and let you keep more of your own money, because you know better than the state how to spend it.” Accusing the SNP of hiking taxes at every opportunity, he said that the Tories are cutting tax for workers here in Scotland and across the UK – by around £900 for the average worker by reducing the national insurance tax. And he promised to cut it completely for the self employed if the Conservatives are returned to government. And he had something for the pensioners by saying that the new state pension will never be dragged into income tax.

He concluded the speech to the party members by saying: “In the next five years, if you ask me to continue as your prime minister, I will do everything I can to deliver for you. I want to make Britain stronger, better, more secure. And we conservatives will always stand for our United kingdom and for our values, for aspiration, for freedom, for opportunity, for security.

“And we Conservatives will always stand for our United kingdom and for our values, for aspiration, for freedom, for opportunity, for security. Our country needs a secure future, not more fostering about independence. Our country wants a clear plan and bold action, and it is a vote for the scottish conservatives that will secure our United Kingdom’s future.”

Douglas Ross, Scottish Conservative Leader said: “We have a unique once-in-a-generation opportunity to change course.

“Because, the SNP have put their political obsession with separating our country on the line.

“John Swinney has produced a manifesto that has on the entirety of its first page “Vote SNP for Scotland to be an independent country”.

“The Nationalists are not even trying to hide it. They are running a single-issue campaign.

“And treating the general election as a proxy independence referendum.

“The SNP are on the backfoot – and they know it.

“They have nothing positive to offer in this election.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Willie Rennie said: “The Scottish Conservatives’ zombie campaign is like something out of Night of the Living Dead.

“They’ve got an out of touch Prime Minister with no leadership qualities, a Scottish leader who can’t wait to quit and a disappointing record of failure stretching back years.

“No wonder morale is so low. By contrast Liberal Democrats are campaigning with a spring in our step and are ready to take seats from the SNP and Conservatives across the UK.”

Shadow Scotland Secretary Ian Murray said: “Douglas Ross and Rishi Sunak are hoping Scots will suddenly forget the last 14 years where a Tory government crashed the economy, sent mortgages and prices soaring and partied during the pandemic. 

“For all that Tories try to change their clothes or even their constituencies, voters can see the Scottish Tories’ empty promises for what they are – the desperate last gasp of an irrelevant party trying to distract and divide. 

“The Tories have had a decade and a half to deliver on their pledges but instead they gambled with families’ savings and put party before country.

“A Labour government will face up to Scotland’s challenges head on with a plan to stabilise the economy, create 69,000 green jobs, make work pay and turn Scotland into a clean energy superpower.”

Edinburgh-based charity project, Vintage Vibes celebrates Wellbeing Week (24-30th June) as the multi-award-winning project’s over 60s singing group, Vocal Vibes is shortlisted for the Creative Lives People’s Choice Award.  

The singing group was created as part of the charity project’s social groups to improve wellbeing and tackle loneliness among older people (known as VIPs) across the city. Vintage Vibes builds confidence and friendships, empowering older people feeling lonely and isolated to live life to the full.  

Now over 20 strong, the singing group meet every fortnight to rehearse, catch up with friends and do what they all enjoy most – sing. From old tunes such as ‘Travel These Ways’ and classics like ‘We Will Rock You’, through to ABBA and The Beatles, the group love to sing and perform. 

The Creative Lives Award celebrates the achievements of community-led creative projects and groups (singing, performing, dancing) and Vocal Vibes have been shortlisted for using creativity to bring people together. 

VIP, George said: “I have been a member of Vocal Vibes since its formation in 2018 and have found it very therapeutic. It’s a most enjoyable part of my life and is an important part of my social life.” 

Georgia Artus, Development Manager at Vintage Vibes said: “This is so exciting for the Vocal Vibes group! They love to sing, and it brings so much joy. As we mark Wellbeing Week, we know how much loneliness can negatively impact a person’s wellbeing, as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and are thrilled that 91% of our members feel that Vintage Vibes groups and activities help improve their mental health and wellbeing. 

“Many older people across Edinburgh face issues ranging from bereavement, lack of confidence, mobility, sudden/ongoing poverty, dementia, mental health challenges, and/or living with a disability, and supporting and celebrating groups such as Vocal Vibes is essential to enriching local lives.  

“Vintage Vibes was created to help lonely and isolated over 60s in Edinburgh to take part in inclusive activities that they enjoy, offering friendship and fun to tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and celebrate individuality.  

“The singing group is part of our wider events, groups and activities across the city to empower older people feeling alone to join together with like-minded volunteers and enjoy life. We’re so happy to be shortlisted – but to win would be amazing! Please vote if you can!” 

Recent feedback from the older people the charity supports has shown that 97% feel that being involved with Vintage Vibes made them feel less isolated, happier and have a better quality of life.  

The group didn’t even let lockdown stop their love of getting together and singing, with Vintage Vibes uniting them on Zoom to continue the group during what was a lonely and difficult time for so many. They even wrote and performed their own song called ‘Tomorrow’ which you can find on our YouTube channel at ‘Tomorrow’ by Vocal Vibes (Vintage Vibes) #TagforTomorrow (youtube.com). 

Judging panels from each nation will choose a winner for Scotland, England, Ireland & Northern Ireland, and Wales, while members of the public can vote for their favourite in the People’s Choice Awards! 

Voting in the People’s Choice Award is open until 29 July 2024. To learn more about the shortlisted projects and to cast your vote, visit https://www.creative-lives.org/2024-shortlist. 

34 creative groups shortlisted from across Scotland, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Winners will be announced at the Creative Lives Awards ceremony in Cecil Sharp House, London on 26 September 2024, partnering with the Everyday Creativity Research Network conference. Winners will receive a bespoke award, framed certificate, cash prize and access to support and training. 

In what has been an amazing month for Vintage Vibes, the project is also celebrating winning the Evaluating Impact Award at Generations Working Together’s Excellence Awards on 11th June 2024 for their work tackling isolation in older people across Edinburgh through intergenerational friendships, groups, events, and constant listening and learning.

A video demonstrating Vintage Vibes vital work in the community can be found at https://vimeo.com/960285360. 

Election candidates in Lothian East are being urged to help end a long running fight to install a safe path for pedestrians and cyclists. 

The candidates have been asked to specify a single decisive action that would ensure the completion of the four-mile Drem-Gullane path. 

Now in its 20th year, the campaign for a safe pedestrian and cyclist route between the East Lothian villages stands as Scotland’s longest-running path initiative.   

The cycling and walking path will protect children and families by providing a safe alternative to the busy B1345 road, reducing the risk of serious injuries. 

Campaigners are optimistic that pressure from election candidates will lead to the eventual approval of the path. 

Drem-Gullane Path Campaign spokesperson Iain V Monk said: “To confront the climate emergency, immediate action is necessary. We have asked candidates to lay their cards on the table, to detail specific actions they will take to help ensure the completion of the eco-friendly Drem-Gullane pathway. 

“Our campaign has attracted considerable support from residents and the business community. That’s why it is essential to provide families and visitors with a healthy alternative that enables safe travel between the villages. The path will connect Drem railway station with the coast, improving the county’s network of green routes.”   

Cyclist Suzi Irvine, an NHS nurse, says she currently feels unsafe using the road. She said: “I live in Gullane and work as a nurse at East Lothian Community Hospital. I like to cycle to work, but feel so unsafe on the main road. This path would give me a safe route for part of the journey to work. It is important to increase the number of people who choose to walk and cycle in East Lothian, but what puts people off is that they feel scared on the dangerous B1345.” 

Retired Gullane resident, Chris Holme, highlighted the dangers of cycling on the B1345. He said: “The community has been campaigning for this vital path for 20 years. In that time the last section of the road into Drem has become even more dangerous. What it needs now is strong political leadership to make it happen … for everyone’s benefit.” 

Scott Runciman, Scotland Advocacy Lead, Cycling UK which has over 70,000 members, including 5,000 in Scotland, said: “We are keen to see all Lothian East election candidates announce their support for this campaign to make certain the four-mile Drem-Gullane path is finally completed.

“The Drem-Gullane Path Campaign has been running for years, and in that time, we could have dramatically improved the safety, health, and environment of the local community. But it’s not too late. With the backing of candidates now, we can highlight how important this issue is to local people and put pressure on local government to make a change that benefits everyone.” 

Hibs have announced the loan signing of Josef Bursik for the 2024/25 season. 

The 23-year-old goalkeeper becomes the club’s first addition of the new campaign, joining from Belgian Pro League winners Club Brugge. 

Bursik already has a wealth of First Team experience as a young no.1 as well as international pedigree with England’s youth teams. 

The 6’3” ‘keeper came through the ranks of the AFC Wimbledon Academy before moving to Stoke City aged 16. 

After a number of successful lower league loan spells, Bursik made his debut for the Potters in November 2020 before making 50 appearances between the sticks for Stoke in the EFL Championship. 

In January 2023, the goalkeeper made the permanent switch to Belgian champions Club Brugge. 

Internationally, Bursik – who also has Czech ancestry – has represented England through the youth levels. He helped England’s Under-17s reach the final of the UEFA European Championships in 2017, and the Under-17s FIFA World Cup that same year. 

He has also featured for England’s Under-18s, 19s and 20s before making his Under-21s debut in November 2020. 

On the signing, Hibernian FC Head Coach David Gray said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring Josef to the Football Club.  

“He’s someone we’ve been monitoring for a long time due to his technical ability, pedigree, and the positive character references we’ve received.  

“My coaching staff and I are looking forward to working with him.” 

Sporting Director Malky Mackay added: “I’m really pleased Josef has decided that Hibs are the Club to showcase his talents. He is a top goalkeeper and a fine young man, and we look forward to seeing him at Easter Road.  

“I’d like to thank Club Brugge for the smooth transition of Josef’s loan deal and wish them the very best in the coming season.” 

More than 13,000 people booked slots at West Lothian’s recycling centres but never turned up with their rubbish. 

Despite the cut in hours introduced last October and the introduction of the booking system there’s been no loss of customers with 191,000 bookings made  between October and April. 

Councillors  heard that officers are finalising proposals to install automatic number plate recognition at CRC sites to speed up the access for drivers. 

The Environment and Sustainability Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel, (PDSP) was told “Officers continue to remind customers of the importance of cancelling their booking if they do not intend to utilise it.” 

In April last year, the Council Executive agreed to reduce the opening hours across the council’s five Community Recycling Centres (CRC) from 280 hours per week to 144 hours per week. 

The changes were to deliver budget savings of £336,000 per year and came into effect from 2 October 2023.  

Controversially it cut opening times  to one day a week and weekends in Broxburn and Linlithgow. 

The first six months showed bookings across the five sites totalled 191,395 from 2 October to 30 April. During that time 219,000 half hour slots were available.  A total of 13,601 bookings were “no shows”. 

David Maule the Interim Waste Operations manager told the PDSP that, given the level of bookings, complaints had been few and far between. 

In his report he said: “A total of 221 CRC enquiries were raised from October 2023 to April 2024 in relation to CRC sites, 41 complaints and 180 enquiries.” 

Complaints about the reduced operating hours topped the list but had tailed off by the end of April. Other subjects which brought the most queries concerned  van and trailer access and booking questions. 

A project is currently under way to install automated number plate recognition cameras (ANPR) at the CRCs. ANPR cameras would be integrated with the traffic barriers and the booking system to fully automate the entry and exit system to the CRC’s. 

This will improve customer service- visitors will not have to wait for a site staff member to manually check their vehicle registration to match it with a valid booking on arrival.  It will also replaces labour intensive check in system currently in place, freeing up operatives for other site management tasks 

Mr Maule’s report promised ongoing review of the sites: “The operation of the booking system is also kept under review. There have been no service disruptions to the system since it went live.  

“There have been some customer requests for the ability to enhance booking slot visibility across all five sites on the booking web page. Initial feedback from the software suppliers is that this is likely to lead to slower performance of the booking system.  

“Regular feedback from customers will continue to be gathered and discussed with software developers to determine whether system improvements are feasible.”  

Conservative councillor Alison Adamson asked: “Has there been any attempt to follow up on no shows? There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence of people booking a slot  ‘ just in case’.” 

She added to the praise she said she   had heard at a recent community council for the way the new system was operating, and how helpful staff at the CRC sites are. 

Mr Maule said the level of no shows   was running at 7% which is similar to other councils which operate similar schemes. “It’s not unusual, but we want to try to reduce it. It is a work in progress.” 

Councillor Diane Calder had asked if Broxburn hours could be extended and added “I do feel the site hours are a bit restrictive in Broxburn and I think if we could extend we might not have as many no shows.” 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

A 54-year-old man has been jailed for seven years following a multi-million pound scam in Edinburgh. 

 
Aasim Johar was sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh today, Monday, 24 June, 2024. 
 
He was previously found guilty on Friday, 24 May, 2024. 
 
Johar defrauded the University of Edinburgh of over £3.3million between 2005 and 2015 through his role as a salesperson.  

The fraudulent scheme saw him earn commission through false and over-inflated invoices for cleaning products that were either not delivered or not required. 
 
Detective Sergeant Gary Dalgleish, of the Financial Investigation Unit, said: “The sentence is the result of a long and complex investigation carried out by our officers. We have worked closely with the University and COPFS throughout the investigation and thank them greatly for their assistance. 
 
“We recognise the significant and devastating impact that financial fraud can have on those that fall victim, which makes us all the more determined to identify and prosecute those responsible 
 
“I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage the public to report fraud to us. We are committed to investigating all reports thoroughly and will bring those responsible to justice.”