For many of us the thought of loosing our hair is something that we worry about, however, for people going through cancer treatment losing their hair is one thing that will almost certainly happen to them. Eight year old Casey Gorrian has already lost her auntie to this disease this year and her Papa is currently recovering from throat cancer.

After watching a programme on the TV one night about children having cancer the youngster decided she was going to raise some money for children who are being treated for it. Casey decided she was going to try and raise £2,500 for the Sick Kids hospital in the capital, and how is she going to do it, yes, you guessed it, by cutting her hair which she has been growing for four years.

As well has having 15 inches of her hair cut off to raise money the hair will then be used to provide wigs for children who have lost their hair as a result of cancer treatment.

Her dad, Tom, said:- “Casey has lost her aunt this year and her paps is currently recovering so this is something thats very close to her heart”.

As well as cutting her her Casey has also organised a bag packing day at Asda, as well as packing bags, holding a raffle and getting donations. A variety of local business have already donated to his cause as well as Hibs and Hearts Football Clubs.

Casey will have the fifteen inches cut this coming Saturday at 12.00pm at March-Hair on Marchmont Road.

A meeting will take place tonight to gauge the level of interest in setting a community radio station in North Edinburgh.

The meeting was called by local community worker Allan Hosey last week and he hopes that folk who have an interest will come together to discuss the options for setting it up.

Allans advert said:- “Various people have suggested that a local radio station for Muirhouse/West Pilton/Drylaw and the surrounding area might be a positive development. Some of the positive aspects of this proposal might be:-

Training opportunities for local people in radio and media (with possible links between local high school and Edinburgh College)

Opportunities for local bands and individuals to gain experience produce demos and be given air time

Opportunities for local projects to get their information across to the local communities

Slots throughout the week with different types of themes ie music, younger and older audiences, new migrant communities etc

An overall increase in artistic and creative activity in the area”

If your interested please pop along to the Arts Centre tonight or you can call Allan on 0131 551 3194

Edinburgh College student Jonathan Walton was chosen as Creative Student of the Year at the Marketing Society Star Awards held in Glasgow last night.

Former physicist Jonathan fought off competition from five other nominees – including fellow student Katy Johnson – to take the coveted award thanks to his impressive campaign encouraging 16-25 year olds to visit and responsibly use Scotland’s Natural Nature Reservations.

The brief was to increase the number of young people visiting NNRs in a fun, engaging and inspirational way and Jonathan’s campaign ‘U in the Wild – Your Own Festival Outdoors’ focuses on experiencing your own ‘sensory festival’ in Scotland’s great outdoors in a clever spoof of the T in the Park music festival campaign.

Jonathan recently completed his HND in Visual Communications at Edinburgh College and is now planning to set up his own marketing design business in the city.

He said:-“I’m interested in how marketing, design and communication can help address environmental and social issues in the digital age. I’m so pleased to have won as the competition was tough and of course it’s great to have your creative ideas acknowledged in this way. It’s all thanks to the fantastic quality of the training provided by Edinburgh College that I’m in this position at all so I’m very grateful to the college.”

Jonathan is now moving into Leith’s Creative Exchange, a new business incubator for start-up creative companies set up by Edinburgh College and City of Edinburgh Council, after also recently winning a year’s free space at the facility in a competition to design the new Creative Exchange brand.

Jonathan’s tutor Helena Good says: “The Marketing Society Star Awards are an important demonstration of Scotland’s marketing talent. I’m so proud of Jonathan and Katy for being nominated and it is wonderful news that Jonathan was successful last night. Their success is an illustration of the highly motivated and employable students that we are dedicated to producing here at the college.”

An Edinburgh College student, Steven Brown, also won the prize last year and Edinburgh College is the only one in Scotland offered the chance to submit students to the awards, with all other nominees being at degree or post graduate level. The other nominees included three from Dundee DJCAD and one from Glasgow School of Art.

Peter Sandstrom, Chair of the Marketing Society Star Awards, said: “The judges faced some incredibly tough decisions this year because of the outstanding examples across all categories. This year’s winners were those who burned the brightest and really showcase just how vibrant and creative the Scottish marketing sector is. Their exceptional campaigns reflect the central role marketing plays within business and the community in Scotland – congratulations to all our winners!”

The award sponsor is Union Direct.

– Submitted by Samantha McKay-Challen

Scotland’s finest young debaters to test their skills at Holyrood and two Edinburgh schools, Craigmount High and St Mary’s Music School, will be taking part.

‘This House believes that the internet encourages democracy’ will be the topic debated on Thursday at Holyrood when more than a hundred of Scotland’s finest high school debaters gather to compete against each other in the Grand Final of the Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament 2013.

This year, 128 teams from across Scotland have sharpened their debating skills and come through a series of heats on subjects including the banning of extremist political parties and the introduction of a 100% inheritance tax.

Established in 1999, Scotland’s largest annual schools debating tournament is open to pupils in all Scottish secondary schools. The competition aims to promote an understanding of the importance of debate, advocacy and communication to the legal profession, democracy and society at large. Organised and run by The Law Society of Scotland, the tournament is dedicated to the memory of the late First Minister Donald Dewar MSP, who died in 2000.

Deputy Presiding Officer John Scott MSP, who will chair the final said:

“The annual Dewar Debate provides an opportunity for young people from across Scotland to express their views on topics affecting them and to test their debating skills in the Scottish Parliament’s Chamber. With 128 teams taking part in this year’s competition, the four finalists have done extremely well in getting this far and I look forward to what promises to be lively and topical debate in the grand final.”

The four teams in this year’s final are:
1. St Margaret’s Academy, West Lothian – Caitlin Sutherland and Shannon Russell.
2. Kirkcudbright Academy, Dumfries and Galloway – Iona Bonaventura and Lydia Reilly.
3. Glenalmond College, Perthshire – Simon Boedermaker and Marcus Buist.
4. Robert Gordon’s College, Aberdeen – Tom Sanders and Morag Forbes.

Also taking part in a debate on the floor of the Chamber are students from 9 schools that took part in the tournament this year:

* Craigmount High, Edinburgh
* The Glasgow Academy, Glasgow
* The High School of Dundee, Dundee
* Lanark Grammar School, South Lanarkshire
* Linwood High, Renfrewshire
* Menzieshill High School, Dundee
* St Aloysius’ College, Glasgow
* St Mary’s Music School, Edinburgh
* Trinity High, Renfrewshire

Heather McKendrick, The Law Society of Scotland’s education and training and development officer, added:

“It has been a fantastic tournament once again and all the teams who have reached the final are to be congratulated, particularly when you consider the number of teams taking part in the opening rounds and the calibre of our competitors.

“It’s a real honour to be able to host the tournament final in the debating chamber of the Parliament for the seventh time and I’m sure it will be a very exciting and memorable experience for all those taking part.”

The winning school will receive a trophy and prize of £1,000, donated by the Law Society of Scotland, and runners-up will receive £250, donated by The Glasgow Bar association. All finalists receive individual Quaiches and certificates to commemorate their success and this year’s sponsors Hodder Gibson Publishers will donate educational books to the value of £500, to be shared by the winning and runner-up school.

The judges for the event are:

* Jon Dye, Former Chairman of the English Speaking Union (Presiding Judge).
* Irene McGrath, Chair of the Scottish Schools International Debating Council
* Neil Stevenson, former Trustee of the English Speaking Union
* Aissa Watson, former Head of Speech and Debate at the English Speaking Union
* and Adam McKinlay, Coach of the Scotland team, World Schools Debating Championships

 Portobello Beach – Carers Week – Ministers visit Tollcross Primary today – Arrests for housebreaking – Inconsiderate parking 

Portobello Beach has been awarded a Resort Seaside Award by leading environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.

The award, given annually, recognises excellent litter management, safety procedures and water quality – this is the second year in a row that Portobello beach will proudly fly the Seaside Award flag.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport and Environment Convener of the City of Edinburgh Council, said:- “I am delighted that Portobello Beach has been granted this coveted award for the second year in a row.  The people who use this beautiful beach can be assured once again that it is officially a clean and safe environment for us all to enjoy.

“The award recognises the quality of the surrounding area too, and a lot of effort has been made by the Council to encourage people to visit local shopping centres such as Portobello. And of course, the community must be thanked for their help in disposing of litter and generally looking after this much-loved destination.”

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said:-“Keep Scotland Beautiful is working to improve the quality of our local environment across the country, so I’m delighted to announce so many Seaside Awards for Scotland, including Portobello Beach, all of which recognise the incredible diversity of our beaches.

“Our new Clean Up Scotland campaign aims to engage with individuals and communities who love their beaches, encouraging them to organise clean up events of their own.  Over 100 community clean ups have already taken place on beaches this year as part of the campaign, including many of the award beaches.

“We know that beach users, whether they are local or visitors from near or far, want to enjoy clean beaches, with well-maintained facilities and access. Our awards flags now fly proudly all across Scotland and are your guarantee of high environmental standards. Choose a seaside award beach on our online map, and enjoy a great Scottish day out by the sea!”

***

This is Carers Week! If you are a carer then you can get some information and perhaps some help here on the Carers Training website for Edinburgh, but there are also lots of activities. Tomorrow for example there is a FREE Tai Chi taster session at the Taoist Tai Chi centre on Marionville Road.

In Edinburgh the Carer’s Champion is Councillor Norman Work who is passionate about his role to help those who are helping others.

***

Two Scottish Government Ministers will visit an Edinburgh primary school today to find out how innovative physical education lessons are helping to drive pupil participation and improve competition.

Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages Dr Alasdair Allan and Commonwealth Games and Sport Minister Shona Robison will visit Tollcross Primary School, which is one of hundreds of schools across Scotland using Education Scotland funding to raise the quantity and quality of PE in schools.

The visit will come ahead of a Scottish Government debate on youth sport in the Scottish Parliament later this afternoon. You can follow this online on the Scottish Parliament website

The Scottish Government is committed to delivering in partnership with local authorities at least two hours PE per week to pupils in primary schools and at least two periods of PE per week to S1-S4 pupils in secondary schools by 2014.

***

Several people have been arrested and charged in connection with a number of alleged housebreakings and attempted housebreakings across Edinburgh last month.

Officers from the city’s Community Investigation Units conducted enquiries following various reports of break-ins and thefts from addresses throughout the city during May.

The CIUs were formed following the launch of Police Scotland to investigate a range of offences, which impact upon our communities and as a result of their enquiries several incidents have now been solved.

On Wednesday 8th May officers responded to an address in Drylaw Crescent, where various goods had been stolen from inside. A 16-year-old youth was subsequently identified and charged in connection with this crime.

Officers were next alerted to two attempted break-ins at newsagents in Great Junction Street and Newkirkgate, which happened on Thursday 9th May. Forensic investigation was carried out at each premises and a 34-year-old man was charged in connection with both incidents.

A Citroen C1 car was then stolen along with a laptop from a property in Wemyss Place Mews on Tuesday 28th May and the North and Central CIU carried out local enquiries to identify those responsible. As a result, two males aged 18 and 33 were arrested and charged before pleading guilty in court.

A 26-year-old man has also been charged following a break-in at a property in Lorne Street on Thursday 30th May. Jewellery and electronic items worth a four-figure sum were taken. All goods have since been recovered and returned to the rightful owner.

During May, Police Scotland investigated a spate of housebreakings in the Liberton area.

After responding to a report of a break-in in progress officers from the South and East CIU arrested a 25-year-old man and as a result of follow-up enquiries, he was charged with 38 offences, including the recent housebreakings.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Cunningham said:- “Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe and recognises that crimes such as housebreakings, antisocial behaviour and drug offences have a serious impact on our communities.

“As such, our Community Investigation Units were formed to provide a focused and targeted approach to addressing these issues and bringing those responsible for offences of this nature to justice.

“Rhe recent results of the unithave been good. However, we cannot be complacent and will continue to robustly investigate whenever a crime is reported.

“Similarly, we will maintain our commitment to community engagement and crime prevention through sustained dialogue with Edinburgh’s residents and businesses – offering advice and guidance on appropriate security measures wherever they are required.”

***

A resident from Royal Park Terrace has been in touch to show us some examples of inconsiderate parking. We do not want to take over from Edinburgh’s Worst Drivers but these examples are pretty awful.

The worst part however is that the communal bins could not be collected by the council when they called round yesterday morning…..!

A last minute goal from Ireland from Lisa Jacob secured a draw with Scotland after a hard fought encounter at Peffermill today, in both countries first build up game to August’s European Championships.

Ireland started strongly and could have taken the lead within a minute when Jacob’s effort was well saved Scotland keeper Cochrane, then after two minutes, Audrey O’Flynn opened the scoring with a well struck shot from a short corner.

The Scots fought back and came into the game, but Ireland continued to look dangerous and a reverse stick attempt by Jacob was deflected inches past the post.

At the other end, a Scotland counter attack almost lead to an equaliser, but Brodie who was unmarked at the back post was unable to connect with a dangerous cross ball and the chance was lost.

After 15 minutes, another Ireland short corner led to the ball entering the net, but Nicola Gray’s well struck effort was ruled out for dangerous play.

Scotland then forced three short corners in a row, with Marshall and Ralph both coming close, but the Irish defence held firm.

Two minutes later, a great save by Cochrane from a Nicola Small shot kept the score at 1-0, and then Fawcett cleared an O’Flynn strike off the line.

Scotland finally levelled the scoring in the 30^th minute thanks to a fine Nikki Kidd drag-flick which flew past Smithwick in the Irish goal.

Four minutes later, Cochrane again came to Scotland’s rescue with fine save from O’Flynn, and the half finished with the teams all-square.

Vikki Bruce did well to beat several players, but her shot was cleared off the line then Kidd went close from a short corner as both sides created chances.

Good interplay between Brodie and Robertson led to an Irish foot in the circle and Marshall came close from the resultant short corner.

Two minutes later, Kidd scored her second goal of the day to give the Scots the lead, with a carbon copy of her first.

With five minutes remaining, Cochrane once again saved her colleagues with a fine save from an O’Flannigan strike and it looked as though the Scots would record a fine victory, but with one minute remaining, the Irish grabbed an equaliser after good work down the left from Dillon left Jacob with a tap in.

After the game, Scotland manager Gordon Shepherd praised the efforts of his team and his interview can be heard here:

Ireland manager Darren Smith told The Edinburgh Reporter: ““We got out of the blocks pretty quick and put a bit of pressure on Scotland and deservedly took a one-nil lead, then I actually thought that the Scotland team controlled some periods of play. Them I thought in the second half we played well and got on top and ended strongly. It was nice to see four goals and two teams trying to play some attractive hockey and hold onto the ball and we were happy with the day.”
“We are here for three days, with two tests and we are back here tomorrow utilising this fantastic facility.”

The two meet again on Tuesday at 2pm.

Photographs by John Preece

Councillor Jim Orr is the Vice-Convenor of Transport and Environment for the City of Edinburgh Council, and represents the Southside/Newington Ward for the SNP Group.

He is in Amsterdam this week on a fact-finding mission about transport and he is particularly interested in their cycling culture and how the best bits of their systems could be introduced here.

Councillor Orr is writing a blog for us from Amsterdam and this is his second post:-

Formalities started on Sunday evening with a talk by Steven Schepel on recent decades of cycling investment and who was the president of the famous “Stop Child Murder” campaign for road safety in the 1970s.  We then heard from Marjolein de Lange, a transport consultant connected to the Dutch Cycling Embassy and the Dutch Cycling Union.  This latter body campaigns to promote cycling investment and is a hugely important stakeholder, a little like Spokes is in Edinburgh but much larger and with paid staff.  (That reminds me: everybody should JOIN SPOKES)

The Dutch planned to expand road networks through large towns (like the UK did) but turned their back on this policy in the 1960s in favour of more sustainable transport policies.  “Make cycling safe for all and easy and fast” was, and remains, an important policy objective as de Lange simply considered cycling as the best way to move masses of people around urban areas.  She commented that whenever a by-pass or ring road is built in the Netherlands, that equivalent restrictions are put in place through the town in question, in order to maximise the benefits.  All very interesting.

In the afternoon we went to Houten.  A town of 50,000 which was 40 years in the planning and which must be one of the most cycle-friendly towns in the world.  The town is divided into neighbourhoods and car drivers can only drive to another neighbourhood via the ring road.  This leaves most of the town connected by a wonderful network of cycleways which are completely safe and pleasant and where all cycle journeys between neighbourhoods are always faster than by car.  Some residents have disabilities and they also appreciate the tranquility and ease of movement without cars.  Like the elderly the disabled often use electric buggies and these can go anywhere that bikes can. Cars are simply not allowed into the city centre, except in small parking lots behind the shops.  The train station is well integrated to the bike parking facility.  It feels a little too quiet and modern for some tastes but it  is still a super town for safe, sustainable living.  Very fresh air, very friendly, pleasant atmosphere.

 

We visited Utrecht on Monday evening and had a lecture from Transport expert Professor Bert van Wee (and which is pronounced “van Way”, I’m told.)  He spoke a lot about the difficulties in estimating cost/benefit analysis in cycling spend (how to measure social exclusion, health benefits or the cost of a death?  What value do you put on time?).  One estimate of benefits being 4 to 5 times the costs (Saelesnminde, 2004) was not univerally accepted but seemed broadly reasonable (if perhaps slightly overestimated according to critics).  We need to account for long term policy objectives when doing the first cycle lanes as these are particularly important.  He writes books on this stuff.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oafMXRcsid0]

A man and woman have been found guilty of brothel keeping following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Sixty year old Margaret Paterson and 61-year old Robert Munro were convicted of brothel keeping, living off immoral earnings, aiding and abetting prostitution and money laundering.

Their accomplice Ian Goalen (59) had earlier pled guilty to living off immoral earnings.

All three were arrested following a police surveillance operation that led to a raid on a property in Grosvenor Street, in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh, on September 7th, 2011.

Officers discovered three women working within the address.

A further search was carried out at Margaret Paterson’s home address, which was packed from floor to ceiling with high value goods including designer shoes, handbags, jewellery and electrical items.  In addition, over £200,000 in cash was seized from the address.

These goods, along with other significant financial assets, have now been referred to the Crown Office for confiscation under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Detective Superintendent David Gordon, of Police Scotland’s Specialist Crime Division, said: “Margaret Paterson, Ian Goalen and Robert Munro were involved in a criminal conspiracy that saw them make significant profits through the sex trade over a period spanning ten years.

“They enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle through these profits, which were made as a result of controlling a network of girls throughout Scotland.  Paterson and Munro managed the criminal business, which was organised, planned and used specialist resources to make significant criminal profits. The serious organised crime aggravator was included in these charges and it acknowledges the nature of the business in which they were involved.

“Police Scotland aims to minimise the impact of prostitution through reducing or eliminating the harm experienced by people working within the sex industry, or those who are exploited for sexual purposes.

“We will aim to disrupt and dismantle organised crime groups engaged in sexual exploitation, identify offenders and bring them to justice, while supporting work to reduce demand through enforcement, education and prevention.”

FASHION SUCCESS FOR UNDERWEAR ENTREPRENEUR

A young Edinburgh businessman is celebrating the success of his smalls which he launched thanks to support from the Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland and the BT Scotland Young E-ntrepreneurs scheme.

Hamish Lawson, 28 from Broughton in Edinburgh set up DaDa Underwear Ltd in 2012 after spotting a gap in the market for luxurious, yet comfortable men’s underwear made from bamboo and organic cotton.

Having previously worked in sales management for three years, Hamish had a desire to start his own business.

He saved up most of the money himself and approached The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland for additional funding to get his business off the ground. And securing a BT Scotland Young E-ntrepreneur Award will enable DaDa Underwear to produce further lines and collaborations which will be available through www.dadaunderwear.com

Through vital start-up funding and mentoring support, The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland supports young people aged 18 to 30 years old to set up and continue in business. Working in partnership with BT Scotland, the Young E-ntrepreneur Awards support young people to develop online tools for developing their business.

In the last 12 years, BT Scotland has invested in excess of £570,000 in the Young E-ntrepreneur programme, helping more than 170 young people to start up in business.

Hamish commented:-“The Youth Business Scotland programme has enabled me to set up my business – something I have longed to do for a number of years and I’m delighted my dream has come to fruition.

“At the same time, the BT Scotland Young E-ntrepreneur Award is a godsend as it will help make my business grow and reach out to new markets. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Dada Underwear.”

Hamish credits his business mentor as a valuable source of support during his journey and said:-“The support from The Prince’s Trust and in particular my business mentor has been great. As a sole trader it helps me to feel like I’m not alone.”

James McClafferty, Partnership Director at BT Scotland, said:-“Our E-ntrepreneur scheme gives a helping hand to fledgling businesses of all kinds. Hamish’s take on his product is innovative and contemporary and we’re delighted to support his venture.

“Young entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the local economy and it is imperative their businesses are nurtured to enable them to grow.”

At 10:30pm on STV tonight an extract from new play ‘The Confessions of Gordon Brown’ followed by a panel discussion will be aired.

In a candid portrait of life inside Downing Street, Gordon Brown ‘hilariously’ exposes the darkest secrets of being Prime Minister, the stab-in-the-back plotting, the betrayals and most importantly – the hair gel.

The company producing the play said:- “Love him or loathe him, Gordon Brown was our greatest failure at being Prime Minister in 200 years. In this searing satire of the hidden arts of modern political leadership, Gordon at last reveals what it takes to knife your way to the top and rule a nation. And how his dream of power ran awry.”

Starring Ian Grieve as Gordon Brown the brand new one-man play by acclaimed Emmy nominated Scots writer and director Kevin Toolis is on from 31July – 26 August 2013 at The Pleasance Courtyard (13:45)

EDINBURGH SCHOOL TAKES HOME GLITTERING EDUCATION AWARD

Prospect Bank School wins top accolade at Scottish Education Awards

An inspirational Edinburgh school is top of the class today as they claimed a top accolade at the Scottish Education Awards 2013.

Prospect Bank School collected the Learning Through Technology Award at the award ceremony at the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow.

The school, which caters for primary age learners with complex, long term additional support needs where the presumption of mainstream can not be met, won the award thanks to the many ways that technology is exploited in the school to the benefit of the children.

Technology is an integral part of the school curriculum and has an extremely positive impact in engaging and motivating the children. Staff use technology to support and enhance learning and teaching, removing significant barriers to learning by providing alternative access to all areas of the curriculum. 

Photo and video plays a major part in supporting the curriculum and assessing learners. Many children have communication difficulties, and visual supports are incredibly important in helping them to become effective communicators. Photos and videos are also used as a means of recording achievements. They are shared across the school in wall displays and assemblies and then further shared through the website and class blogs.

The school’s aim is to maximize the potential of every child, and through the exceptional work done with technology, the children have a wonderful range of exciting opportunities to shine and show their full potential.

City of Edinburgh Council Education Convener, Councillor Paul Godzik, said: “I’m delighted that Prospect Bank School has been successful in the Learning Through Technology Award category of the Scottish Education Awards. Their win just shows the wealth of talented teachers we have working in our great schools. Well done to our other finalists who also all came from the special schools sector. Their success is a tribute to all the hard work and dedication of all our teaching staff.”

The Scottish Education Awards are open to all publicly funded schools and provide the opportunity to showcase the hard work and achievements of all education staff in Scotland. There are categories to recognise and reward the dedication of teachers, head-teachers and support staff across the country.   

For further information visit www.scottisheducationawards.org.uk

Detectives are now able to confirm that the body, which was found on Thursday (June 6) on Corstorphine Hill by a passer-by, belongs to a female.

They are also able to say that, contrary to earlier speculation, the remains are not those of Suzanne Pilley, who went missing from her Edinburgh home two years ago.

Detective Chief Inspector Keith Hardie, of the Major Investigation Team, who is leading the inquiry, said: “Good progress was made over the weekend with a lot of support from a wide variety of specialists.

“The remains have been fully excavated and the detailed examination of the site will continue over the next few days. Our focus is now on trying to identify the victim and then determine the circumstances surrounding her death.”

If you have any information regarding this incident then please call 101, or report to your local police station.

Edinburgh Bus Tours Wins Big at Regional Thistle Awards

A partnership which has successfully promoted Edinburgh as a world heritage site was honoured last week at a regional awards ceremony.

Edinburgh Bus Tours was awarded the Partnership in Tourism award at the Central South East Scottish Thistle Awards for its work with Edinburgh World Heritage.

To help promote Edinburgh as a world heritage site, the two organisations initially partnered up for World Heritage Day in 2011 when they came up with a series of activities centred on the city’s UNESCO status.

Following the success of the collaboration, the two then worked together to create the Official World Heritage Tour in 2012, a hop-on, hop-off open top bus tour which allows both locals and visitors to explore UNESCO world heritage sites of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns.

Tim Armour, General Manager at Edinburgh Bus Tours said: “Winning the regional Scottish Thistle Award for our partnership with Edinburgh World Heritage is a testament to the great work that we have produced together.

“Our first bus tour in a partnership was a great success and has led us to develop the tour for 2013. We have created a more thematic experience with the Official Edinburgh World Heritage Tour: City of Contrasts.”

David Hicks, Communications Manager for Edinburgh World Heritage said: “Congratulations to Edinburgh Bus Tours for their success at the Regional Thistle Awards. The partnership has proved to be a great success, offering visitors a brand new perspective on the city’s heritage and encouraging them to explore more of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site.”

The Partnership will now go through to the national finals of the Scottish Thistle Awards due to be held in November.

Firstly congratulations go to Hibs stars Ben Williams, Lewis Stevenson and Owain Tudor Jones who all married during the last week. Further congratulations go to Gordon Strachan for masterminding Scotland’s win against Croatia who are ranked number four in the world.

Off the field, all eyes will be on Tynecastle as once again Hearts face legal action over an unpaid tax bill.

Rugby by John Preece

Mixed bag of fortunes this week for Scottish rugby at home and, mostly, abroad. Ranging from the baddish to the really bad, it’s probably a week best left in the memory banks.

Baddish was the news that Vern Cotter, the future Scottish head coach, was to become the future Scottish head coach… This was the news that his current employers, Clermont Auvergne, were less than pleased with, what they saw, as Cotter’s negotiations with Scotland. It had been claimed that he had offered his resignation, which Cotter denied, so a board room meeting was called for. The outcome of this meeting appeared to satisfy the Clermont bosses and as a result, Scotland will not be getting their new coach until next June.

Badder news was the Women’s Seven’s performance in Brive last weekend. Playing to retain their Grand Prix status, the women played Ukraine, Italy, Ireland and France on Day 1, going down 27-0, 38-5, 24-0 and 38-5 respectively. Only two tries were scored, both in the dying seconds, against Italy (Megan Gaffney) and France (Sarah Smith).

Day 2 was just a re-run of Day 1, performance-wise. Defeats against Spain, Portugal and the Ukraine – 40-0, 26-5 (Tess Forsberg) and 19-0 – means that the Scots finished a distant twelfth and last and must improve out of sight to have any chance of finishing in the top ten in Marbella. (Photo – Megan Gaffney in action against Ireland in the 2013 Six Nations)

Baddest of all news was that from South Africa where men were beaten in Durban for the first time by Samoa in the quadrilateral Summer tournament. 14-3 down after twelve minutes, both Samoan tries scored with the assistance of glaring defensive errors, the Scots were battered into submission by the huge Samoan wingers (and centres, props, etc, you name it…) and finished the first half 14-9 down and with a couple of players on the injury list.

Just after the restart, Laidlaw scored to pull three points back, before Lamont scored a try on the 50 minute mark. Laidlaw missed the kick and with Samoa drawing level at 17-17 another Tuilagi try and a couple of successful kicks saw the Samoans home 27-17.

Next match up for the Scots is against South Africa, who beat Italy 44-10, next weekend with a busy week for the medical staff in between.

International Football

Congratulations go to Edinburgh’s Gordon Strachan on Scotland’s historic win against Croatia in Zagreb. The Croats are currently ranked fourth in the world and were huge favourites to win the World Cup qualifier, but the Scots, who included Edinburgh born Allan McGregor and Leigh Griffiths in the starting line-up, took all three points thanks to a Robert Snodgrass goal in the first half.

This result is on a par with the famous 1-0 win over France in Paris a few years ago, and ensures that Scotland will not drop into the 5^th seeding pot for the next major tournament.

Football

Hearts could face a winding up order unless they settle a PAYE bill of £100,000 to HMRC by the end of Monday 10 June.

The money should have been paid last Monday, and the club were given seven days to pay the outstanding debt.

A Club spokesman said:- “We are in dialogue with HMRC and expect to make the payment in the very near future.”

Meanwhile Lithuanian prosecutors have threatened to issue a European arrest warrant for Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov after he failed to appear for questioning over the alleged embezzlement of more than £12 million.

The Lithuanian Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS) started proceedings at the end of April, concerning the embezzlement of £12.3m relating to the collapse of Ukio Bankas.

The 67-year-old failed to turn up for questioning and is now thought to be in Russia, reportedly recovering from a heart attack.

Across the city, Hibs unveiled their new home strip for next season, which sees Nike replace Puma as manufacturers. Teenage striker Danny Handling was on hand to model the top.

Hibs will field a team in next season’s Central Taxi’s East of Scotland League First Division after the current 26 clubs unanimously approved the Easter Road side’s application to join at their annual meeting.

Andrew Waddell, vice-chairman of the Seniors’ set-up, confirmed that Hibs had been successful in their bid and will start in the league’s bottom tier, the First Division, which already includes Berwick Rangers’ reserve team

On Sunday, an estimated 2000 took advantage of the Hibernian Historical Trust free stadium tours as part of the Leith Festival. The tours visited the Player’s Lounge, the Gallery area, the Board Room and Directors Box, the Home and Away Dressing Rooms before guests were invited to walk down the tunnel and sit in the dugouts.

http://www.tout.com/m/s167x2

East of Scotland League

The East of Scotland League has been advised that a decision regarding the commencement of the Scottish Lowland League is expected on 13th June.  The proposal to form the league will be made to the SFA AGM on 11th June.  If the SFA approve the proposal it is anticipated that there will be a meeting of all East of Scotland League clubs before the end of June to discuss any changes resulting from the new league.

Following Spartans Kings Cup triumph, the club held their player of the year awards at the Academy where the winners were announced as follows:

Seniors: Players player: Willie Bremner, Coaches player: Gary Cennarazzo, Supporters player: Gary Cennarazzo.  The Malt and Hops winner of the most man of the match awards: Keith McLeod, and the Goal of the season: Willie Bremner vs Tynecastle, league game at home to Tynecastle.

Juniors:  Players player: Matty Cunningham, Coaches player: Matty Cunningham

Amateurs: Players player: Robbie Laird, Coaches player: Robbie Laird

Under 19:  Players player: Brad Raiker, Coaches player: Brad Raiker

Top Goalscorer: Matt Underhill

Mr Spartans Ronnie Swan and Chairman Craig Graham we inducted into the Spartans Hall of Fame to complete a great night.

Women’s Football

Spartans travelled to Kilwinning and returned with three points thanks to a 6-0 victory. Mason gave them the lead in the 10^th minute, before a Lou Paterson header made in 2-0 just before the break. Second half goals from Louise Mason, Kirsty McLaughlin, Ellis Jenkins and Lana Clelland with her first goal since her return from injury secured the victory.

At Albyn Park Broxburn, Hibs ladies easily defeated Falkirk 11-0 thanks to goals Susan  Fairlie (3), Kirsty Smith (2), Claire Emslie (2), Zoe Johnston, Lizzie Arnott, Sammy Hare and an own goal.

Cricket

Scotland lost by 360 runs against a strong Australia A side at the Grange.

Australia A started the 4 day contest with Scotland, with an impressive 335 for six, thanks to a 113 from captain Brad Haddin. The visitors took their overnight tally to 372 for eight and declared once Peter Siddle reached his century.

Scotland were then  bowled out for 149 on the second day after struggling with the pace of Australia’s bowling, with only Calum MacLeod (51) and Iain Wardlaw (33 not out) offering any resistance.

Australia A closed on 165 for four to lead by 388 runs with six wickets remaining.  The following day, they increased their lead to over 450,and declared on 230 for five before handing the bat to Scotland, however the Scots were bowled out for 93.

Speedway

The Scotwaste Monarchs suffered a one point defeat to Redcar on Friday night.

With Theo Pijper missing, the Monarchs built up a 12-point advantage however things went badly wrong from that point.

Redcar then took their chances and grew in confidence and took an 8-1 in heat 11, followed by a 4-2, and a 5-1 in heat 14, as well as sharing heats 13 and 15 behind Cook.

Monarchs’ teenager Max Fricke had wins in his first three races, pushing past Max Dilger in heat 2 and heading Aaron Summers in heat 4.

Bowling

Tanfield went top of Division One of the Alpha Trophies Edinburgh Bowling League with an 8-1 win at home to Northern in the fifth round. Defending champions Parkside are only one point behind.

Snooker

Granton’s Craig MacGillivray’s bid to win the European Masters Snooker Championship ended at the last-16 stage when he lost to Wales’
Darren Morgan.

Hockey

Scotland Senior Women will begin their preparations for the Euro Hockey Nations Championship in Belgium this summer with five international matches at Peffermill, Edinburgh from 10-18 June.

Gordon Shepherd’s side will play a single match against Ireland (10 June) before taking on South Africa in four encounters in the capital (13/15/16/18 June).

CATS Awards 2013 (Critics Awards for Theatre in Scotland), Traverse Theatre, 9 June 2013.

Film-maker John Byrne (centre), who made the awards at the CATS (Critics Awards for Theatre in Scotland) with Blythe Duff after the awards ceremony at Edinburgh’s Traverse Theatre, Sunday 9 June 2013.

Photos by

Colin Hattersley Photography

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

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

Thousands of men, woman and children from all ages and all parts of the country pounded the streets of Edinburgh last night taking part in the 2013 Edinburgh Moonwalk. The walkers left at 11pm last night from Leith Links and some walkers where still out on the route at 10am today.

Before the walk participants could get massages and ‘The Beatles’ wowed the crowds with a variety of hits. Comperes for the evening weere Grant Stott & Arlene from Forth One.

Work to install overhead and underground tram cables is set to get under way in the city centre from this week.

Information about overnight working for the cable installation and any impact on traffic management has been communicated to residents and stakeholders and posted to the Council’s tram web pages.

Broughton Street

• Works to install overhead cables at the junction of Broughton Street and Picardy Place will be carried out on the night of Monday 10 June, between the hours of 22:00 and 05:00.
• In order to carry out these works, the road junction will be closed during the hours of 22:00 and 05:00.
• Local traffic management arrangements will be installed, including a local traffic diversion route.

Princes Street

• Princes Street will be closed between the hours of 20:00 and 06:00 between South Charlotte Street and South St David Street during these cabling works:
• Tuesday 11 June to  Friday 14 June: four nights, to install overhead cables
• Monday 17 June to  Saturday 13 July: This is a four-week programme, with the contractors working four nights each week to install underground cables
• During the road closure times, services buses will be diverted along George Street.
• Every effort will be made to minimise any disruption to the local area.

In addition to the information about the above cabling works, a letter has also been sent to residents and businesses in Morrison Street, concerning essential works there to build a new signalised junction.

These works will be carried out in three phases over a period of seven nightshifts. The schedule of works has been planned as follows:

• Monday 10 June – Wednesday 12 June from 19:00 to 06:00
• Thursday 13 June and Monday 17 June – Tuesday 18 June from 19:00 to 06:00
• Wednesday 19 June -Thursday 20 June from 19:00 to 06:00

Every effort will be made to complete any noisy operations by 22:00.

ENHANCED DESIGN FOR LEITH WALK GETS THE SUPPORT OF LOCAL STAKEHOLDERS

An enhanced design for Leith Walk as part of the Leith Programme has been given the seal of approval by local residents and organisations.

Following a comprehensive public consultation earlier this year, the Council announced it would be seeking additional funding from the Scottish Government in order to give Leith Walk the best possible revamp.

At a meeting in Leith’s McDonald Road Library last night, an enhanced design, which would make the thoroughfare more cycle and pedestrian-friendly, was presented by the Leith Programme team to local residents, business leaders and community groups.

Features of the enhanced scheme include:

– clear pedestrian priority over 1.8km, including safer crossing points;
– significant sections of uninterrupted cycle space (both dedicated on and off road sections);
– redesigned, simplified junctions;
– largely segregated cycle provision from Pilrig Street uphill for around 1km to Picardy Place;
– two-way segregated cycle provision from Annandale Street to the Omni centre;
– replacement of London Rd roundabout with a signalled junction to significantly enhance conditions for both pedestrians and cyclists;
– 1.75m wide cycle lane provision on the road in both directions between Foot of the Walk and Dalmeny Street (into town) Pilrig Street (out of town);
– Narrower road environment with frequent zebra crossings, with a design that supports slower vehicle speeds;
– a simplified streetscape more conducive to community activity, trading and business; and
– better connectivity for sustainable forms of travel between the waterfront and the city centre.

Given the scope of this new design and the need to obtain a Traffic Regulation Order to implement the changes, local stakeholders were advised that opting for the enhanced design would affect the timescale.

For anyone wishing to view the designs in detail and speak to the project team about any aspect of the programme, a drop in session will be held at McDonald Road Library on Tuesday 23 July, from 2pm and 8pm.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “It was very useful for us to be able to present this potential enhanced design for Leith Walk to local stakeholders tonight. It prompted a lot of interesting debate and we are pleased that there was such overwhelming support for the plans from those present.”

Sustrans Scotland Director, John Lauder, said:
“Sustrans Scotland wants to see Leith Walk reach its full potential as a busy, vibrant shopping and residential street.  In order to achieve this aim, the City of Edinburgh Council, in partnership with ourselves, has put forward an ambitious proposal to Transport Scotland for the full 2.2km length of the street.

“Sustrans strongly backs the features of this ‘enhanced design’ for Leith Walk, including the addition of new crossing points, wider pavements and better cycle lane provision.  We now call on the Scottish Government to carefully consider the Council’s ‘enhanced design’ proposal and fully back its implementation.”

Keith Hales, Vice Chairman of the Leith Business Association, who attended the meeting, said: “This is a massive improvement on what we thought the designs were going to be and we will be commending the designs to the membership.”

Charlotte Encombe, Chair of Greener Leith, said: “Greener Leith welcomes the improvements shown in these exciting new draft designs for Leith Walk, which will give pedestrians and cyclists a vastly improved public realm and help to revitalise the economy of the area. We are also delighted that officers and councillors have included local people’s priorities for the street and have made real changes to the design.  We look forward to collaborating on the detail of the designs as the project moves forwards.”

Constitution Street has been the focus of attention over recent weeks and the photos below show the current upgraded condition of the street and pavements. We think it looks good – what do you think?

Leith Walk plans well received – Save Stockbridge – Curriemuirend Park – Our Competitions –  Today at the Cameo

It appears that the council’s Transport Convenor has had a bit of a coup this week in presenting plans for the redevelopment of Leith Walk which have reportedly surprised some stakeholders by surpassing their expectations.

Councillor Lesley Hinds and a team of female councillors are taking part in the Moonwalk this evening fundraising for breast cancer charities, along with thousands of others expected on the streets after midnight. Moonwalk is starting from Leith Links this year as Inverleith Park is still damaged from last year’s flooding.

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In Stockbridge plans were originally lodged in October 2012 to develop the Accies ground to form a 5,000 seater stadium along with a retail offering.Some changes were made and the plans have been relodged.  Locals have objected on each occasion. There are 1525 public comments on the council’s planning page here.  The only problem is that you cannot read what each individual has said in their comment, so what you are left with is a list of names.

There are two Facebook pages of interest: the first is for Save our Stockbridge and the other is the page where you can support the development called Supporting a Flourishing Stockbridge.

The developers are keen to point out that the project is for 9 retail units and not a massive supermarket. Those opposed to the project want to ensure that the correct procedure is gone through, particularly in relation to traffic surveys.

Planning officials and councillors visited the site on Thursday and a decision is expected later this summer.

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Another area of the city where there is some development afoot is at Curriemuirend Park which is a green area between Wester Hailes and Juniper Green. Any objections to this plan to redesignate the land from green belt to housing have to be made by 14 June 2013. There is some information here on the Curriemuirend website  and on how to have your say.

Councillor Bill Henderson said in his newsletter:-“Even now, many people in Baberton Mains and Juniper Green remain unaware of the plan.  Even fewer people know how to lodge an objection to the planning department and the timescale for doing this.”

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Time on your hands this weekend? Then use it to enter one of our three competitions….

We have tickets for the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling talk by Juliana Buhring the fastest woman in the world, for a talk on the Copenhagenizing strategy for city streets and a performance at Summerhall by Nile Rodgers.

Have a go and you might win free tickets!

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There is a wide variety of films on offer today at the Cameo. Everything from Michael Douglas in the Liberace film Behind the Candelabra to Shane Meadows documentary on the Stone Roses. Something for everyone!

[vimeo 66389802 w=500 h=281]

BEHIND THE CANDELABRA: OFFICIAL TRAILER from total:spec on Vimeo.

Police Scotland is investigating after human remains were discovered in Edinburgh.

Officers were called to woodland in Corstorphine Hill at around 5.30pm on Thursday evening after a member of the public had discovered the remains in the area.

The scene has currently been cordoned off while police and partner agencies begin a full forensic recovery.

As a result, the bus lane on Corstorphine Road will be closed for a period of time to allow specialist vehicles access to the area.

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding this discovery are at an early stage and anyone who can assist officers with their investigation is asked to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Keith Hardie said:- “At this time we are providing a presence in the woodland area around Corstorphine Hill to assist colleagues from other agencies in recovering these remains.

“Following this, they will be taken for analysis to determine identity and establish a cause of death.

“This enquiry is in its infancy and there is no further information at this time as to how this individual came to be in Corstorphine Hill.

“Anyone who believes they have information relating to this matter is asked to contact police immediately.

“I would like to thank the local community, including motorists for their patience and co-operation while we deal with this enquiry.”

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

Our city’s streets will be transported back to the Swinging Sixties this Saturday!  After months of training, thousands of women and men wearing brightly decorated psychedelic bras will Power Walk through the streets of the capital at midnight.

Organised by grant-making breast cancer charity, Walk the Walk, The MoonWalk Edinburgh Scotland has raised in excess of £15.5 million since 2006, with most of the money being distributed in Scotland, to help improve the lives of people with cancer.

This year’s theme is “Psychedelic Extravaganza”, where anything groovy goes, as long as it’s bright and bold –a Magical Mystery Tour from the Swinging Sixties, full of Flower Power!

The walkers will start their amazing challenges from Walk the Walk’s huge Pink Tent at its new venue at Leith Links. Uniting against breast cancer, many iconic buildings across the city will be lit pink on the night, giving the walkers a huge collective hug. Amongst others, Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Yacht Britannia and Lloyds on The Mound will all be basking in a pink glow!

The charity’s walkers will be taking on two new Power Walking challenges this year. Anyone aged ten and over can do the quarter marathon New Moon (6.55 miles). For those seeking an extreme challenge, Walk the Walk has introduced the double marathon Over the Moon (52.4 miles). The famous Half Moon (13.1 miles) and Full Moon (26.2 miles) challenges are both still available.

STV Entertainment correspondent Laura Boyd will be taking on the Full Moon – Laura was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2009  and uses Maggie’s Cancer Care Centre at Gartnavel Hospital in Glasgow, which is funded by Walk the Walk. Singer/songwriter Carrie Mac is also walking and five MSPs have signed up for The New Moon – Jackie Baillie (Dumbarton), Sarah Boyack (Lothian), Siobhan McMahon (Central Scotland), Mary Scanlon (Highlands and Islands) and Drew Smith (Glasgow). 

Entries for all the walking challenges are now closed, but Walk the Walk still wants more volunteers to sign up – a thousand are needed to help the event run smoothly. There’s a variety of roles available, including route marshall, cycle marshall, water crew, clean and recycle team, and directional team (helping direct walkers, and other jobs on The MoonWalk City site).

To sign up as a volunteer, and for more information, go to www.walkthewalk.org/volunteer

Nina Barough CBE, Chief Executive and Founder of Walk the Walk said:
“The MoonWalk Edinburgh is a unique and very wonderful experience that will see thousands of ordinary women and men achieve something quite extraordinary. Not only are those taking part reaching their own personal goals, but they are also succeeding in really making a tangible difference for cancer patients in Scotland.  With walkers coming from all over Scotland, the UK and indeed, the world, it is wonderful that this beautiful city welcomes them with a huge pink smile”.

“We are also all very excited to be introducing two additional challenges to the night, The New Moon, 6.55 miles, which is open to everybody over the age of 10 years, so we will be seeing lots of families taking part, which for many will be their first Power Walking challenge…and The Over the Moon, 52.4 miles and 2 marathons back to back!

The MoonWalk is an amazing phenomena which to date has raised over £15.5 million….keep on supporting it everybody, whether people Volunteer for us or Walk, we are making a huge difference to the lives of cancer patients in Scotland, and we could not do it without you”!  

Dozens queued outside the Hibs shop this morning in advance of the unveiling of the new home kit for Season 2013/14. They were quickly joined by hundreds more and shop staff struggled to cope with the initial demand.

Produced by the leading global sportswear brand, Nike, the new home kit is a classic Hibernian design with a ‘Forever Green’ applique branded onto the back.

The kit is completed with white shorts and green-and-white socks – a traditional look for the forthcoming season, and first to buy a top was East Stand Season Ticket Holder Jamie Douglas from Blackford in Edinburgh, who was actually at the back of the queue when the doors opened, but showing some nimble footwork that Danny Handling would have been proud of, he was first to reach the tills.

The strip returns to the more traditional lighter green after last year’s successful ‘bottle green’ top which was popular with the fans.

Teenage striker Danny Handling was on hand to model the strip, after returning from the Den Haag Under 20s tournament where he helped Scotland to 4^th place, scoring twice in the opening game against Cruzeiro.

This will be an important year for the youngster and he is determined to be in the manager’s plans, particularly as he is one of only two strikers in the first team squad at present following the departure of Eoin Doyle to Chesterfield and Leigh Griffiths who has returned to parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Earlier this year Hibs main sponsors, Crabbie’s announced a search for five deserving supporters to be the face of this season’s Home kit launch.

Today the club introduced the ‘Famous Five’   all local community heroes and deserving supporters who have all showcased in their own ways, an all-encompassing commitment and great affection for Hibernian F.C.

The five chosen from the Hibernian community are Hugh Cockburn, Darren Stenhouse, Lex Sheils, David Fulton and Glen Milne.

Ron Young, Country Manager of Scotland at Halewood International, said: “We are very excited to have these local community heroes and huge Hibernian supporters launch the kit for the first time with Hibernian.

“When we became involved with Hibernian two years ago we were clear that this was an opportunity to give something back to the area where John Crabbie formulated the original ginger wine nearly 200 years ago.”

Russell Smith, Head of Commercial, said:- “We are delighted to work alongside Crabbie’s as we launch Hibernian’s first home kit by Nike with the five modern day community heroes, Cockburn, Stenhouse, Sheilds, Fulton and Milne.

“This is special gesture from the club and Crabbie’s to our supporters, who we value and appreciate and it highlights the unsung heroes from the stands at Easter Road.

“This is the first time we’ve asked supporters to help unveil our new home kit. There are thousands of deserving heroes within our community and we hope by recognising Your Famous Five, as we launch the Hibernian home kit for next year, we can further strengthen the bond between our supporters and the club.”

The ‘Famous Five’ stories are as follows:

As a supporter of Hibs for well over 40 years and despite now living in Sunderland, Hugh Cockburn recently helped raised over £2,000 for the Dan McMichael headstone fund. When planning his charity cycling trip from London to Edinburgh, Hugh heard about the efforts of the St. Patrick’s Hibernian Supporters’ Branch to give McMichael, Hibernian’s legendary cup-winning manager, the fitting tribute he deserves by giving his final resting place a proper headstone.

Almost six years ago, Darren Stenhouse began dedicating his time to help two local Edinburgh institutions. St. Mary’s School, which is situated very near to Easter Road and boasts current club owner Sir Tom Farmer amongst its former pupils, has been benefiting from Darren’s dedication and SFA Level 3 football coaching expertise for over half a decade now.

Leith Athletic FC also reaps the rewards of Darren’s motivation, love for the sport and dedication to his community. As a loyal Hibs supporter of over 40 years, Darren has followed his side across Europe, including their successful tie against Videoton, Hungary in the 1989/90 season.

However, it is his work closer to home that has caught the attention of the club and the surrounding area. Darren manages his St Mary’s side on a Saturday, Leith Athletic FC on a Sunday and their respective training sessions, which take up another two days of his week. It is this prolonged period of dedication that prompted some of his fellow Hibees to nominate Darren as one of the ‘Famous Five’ local heroes.

He uses his time at St. Mary’s, to not only improve the football skills of Edinburgh’s next generation but also to teach them about respect, fair-play, teamwork and the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle.

Lex Sheilds has been involved with Hibernian since a very young age; he was a schoolboy player for Hibs and is today still involved with some of the Hibernian Foundation’s partners. After a successful junior football career and a spell in management, Lex saw his football knowledge and experience as an opportunity to help others in the Edinburgh community. He began working for the Lothian Special Olympics and became a learning assistant for adults and children with learning difficulties.

Lex has been helping Elaine McKenna (head football coach) and the rest of the Lothian Special Olympics team for over 17 years. The movement was founded over 40 years ago and looks to give confidence and hope to people with learning disabilities. Lex dedicates his time and applies his management and playing skills to help run the football elements of the organisation.

Since his playing days, Lex has always been drawn to helping others, particularly those with learning disabilities as well as those who care for them. He finds the work very rewarding and feels that often he enjoys the coaching experience as much as they do. Lex’s long-term commitment to helping those that perhaps don’t always feel included in group or sporting activities is truly inspirational.

Two of Lex’s sons have played in the Hibernian setup, so the Sheilds’ family truly are a Hibs institution and it seemed very fitting for Lex to be nominated as one of the ‘Famous Five’ local heroes for his prolonged support and dedication to his club and community

As an avid Hibs supporter for over 50 years, David Fulton recently walked from Edinburgh to Hampden Park steps to raise money for the widow of his long-time friend, Charlie Adams. After Charlie passed away suddenly four weeks ago, David took it upon himself to walk the 45 mile journey, a mile for every year of Charlie’s life, prior to Hibs’ appearance in the Scottish Cup Final against Celtic.

With the great support of his friends, the club and the media, David completed the journey in less than ten hours and was greeted by the staff at Hampden Park at 6pm, the evening before his side was due to appear in the 2013 Scottish Cup Final. Without much notice or any preparation, the task was physically daunting. David described it as “the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, even harder than completing the Edinburgh Marathon”. Having known Charlie and his family for over 20 years, David was motivated during his journey by the thought that whilst his physical pain would go away, their grief would not.

Charlie’s family are overjoyed with David’s inspirational effort and eternally thankful for both the emotional and financial support that the walk has generated. To date, David estimates that he has raised over £3,000, all of which will be donated to Charlie’s widow, Anne Marie.

The journey that led Glen Milne to be nominated as one of the ‘Famous Five’ local heroes began in 2009. Having recently retired, Glen’s pension payments were unexpectedly cut. Understandably upset, he realised the only way to get the money back was to try and get healthier and down to an ideal weight in order to increase his life expectancy.

Despite having lost 5 stone in recent years, in 2009 he still weighed 19 stone and was struggling to lose any more. Hibernian Community Foundation had just begun their ‘Fit Fans in Training’ programme as part of their Men’s Health initiative. Glen signed up, and after the initial 12 weeks, he had lost over 2 stone in weight. The Community Foundation decided to have a further course for the ‘FFiT’ graduates – Fit for Change, and another 12 week session started. By the end of that initiative, Glen’s weight was down to 14.5 stone, just over what is considered a healthy weight.

By his 52nd birthday in April 2012, Glen had lost almost 7 stone since beginning the ‘Fit Fans in Training’ programme. For the first time since he turned 15, he can now fit into 32″ waist jeans. Since then, Glen has continued to remain healthy and active, subsequently he is now off high blood pressure medication, his cholesterol levels are down to the low side of normal and he was able to run for 2 miles for the first time since 1979. He continues to play his much loved 5-a-side football, but can now play outfield, and he’s even managed a couple of 11-a-side matches including captaining the Hibernian Fit Fans team.

The club shop will be open on Sunday and hopes business will be brisk as fans take advantage of the free stadium tours provided by the Hibernian Historical Trust between 1pm and 4pm.

Police in the north of the city have appealed for witnesses following an alleged racist attack that took place on Tuesday 28 May 2013 at around 06:00 pm in the Muirhouse area.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the incident or a group of youths described as white, aged 14-15, slim build wearing grey tracksuits tops and bottoms.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said:- “We are currently investigating an incident on 28 May 2013 when a female cyclist was racially abused by a group of youths in Muirhouse Park.  Anyone with any information is urged to contact the police.”

Locally Police have distributed letters asking folk who may have information to come forward.

if you have any information please contact the police on the non emergency 101 number, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or call PC Carr at Drylaw Police Station on 101.

This weekend Craigies Farm on the outskirts of the City is having an open weekend. There is sure to be plenty of fun for all the family. Activities include:-

– big, new farm machinery
– see a shepherd shear his sheep on Saturday
– meet the pig farmer and learn about his pigs
– learn how they grow the fruit
– splat the rat and other games
– great food, local meats and fresh salads
– lots of tastings in the shop

As well as that there will be plenty of chances to win some excellent prizes.

For more information visit their website at www.craigies.co.uk

Children, community groups and the elderly will be coming together next week for a major clean-up of Leith Walk, as part of Police Scotland’s commitment to community engagement.

Ship Shape Leith Walk will take place on Monday 10th, Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th June, between 10am and 3pm.

Residents of the Port of Leith Housing Association Jamieson Place Supported Accommodation, St Mary’s Star of The Sea Parish Church and pupils from Pilrig Park will be helping over the course of three days.

Over 50 pupils from St Mary’s Primary School will be assisting on Monday afternoon between 1pm and 3pm.

The main aim of the initiative is to tackle the ‘eye-sore’ issues of vandalism and graffiti.

Volunteers will be given cleaning and graffiti removal equipment from the City of Edinburgh Council, and will progress work from Leith Walk all the way up to Elm Row.

Specialist cleaning teams from the council will handle large scale graffiti vandalism through chemical removal.

As each block is completed, ‘We Love Leith’ will be stencilled on paving stones to indicate that the work has been completed.

Police Constable Andy Higgins said:- “We are delighted to work on worthwhile projects such as this with our partners and our community who are volunteering to remove illegal graffiti and defacing of street furniture in the Leith area.

“Police Scotland is committed to tackling all forms of anti-social behaviour and will deal robustly with any person who is in involved in any acts of vandalism.

“We hope that community projects like this will really help to revitalise the community spirit of Leith.”

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Environment Convener, said:-“Ship Shape Leith has proved to be a huge success with the local community with residents and businesses coming together to tidy up their streets. I am sure the work planned next week will have a positive impact and will prove to be somet

hing everyone can take immense satisfaction and pride from. One of our key partnership commitments of the Capital Coalition is to maintain and improve the quality of life in Edinburgh and Ship Shape Leith is a fine example of this in action.”

Summerhall is hosting music legend Nile Rodgers for ‘Indigo Night’, a unique collaboration between Rodgers and Belgian artist, Jean Pierre Muller on 21 & 22 June 2013. And The Edinburgh Reporter has two tickets to give away in our exciting competition!

These tickets have been selling like hot cakes and cost £30 each. This is a real exclusive for The Edinburgh Reporter and we are excited to offer this to you…

Nile Rodgers has written more hit songs than you can believe, and his impact on popular music of the last forty years is inestimable. Classics include Chic singles like Le Freak and Good Times, and his collaborations take in the likes of David Bowie (for Let’s Dance), Sister Sledge (for He’s the Greatest Dancer and others), and this year’s biggest selling single so far, Daft Punk’s Get Lucky.

The event – featuring spoken word, visual art, and music – is a world premiere, and an important development of the major 7×7 project shown to acclaim during the Summerhall 2012 Festival.

The question is this:- Name two artists, apart from Nile Rodgers, who collaborated and were involved in the 7×7 project at Summerhall in 2012.

CLUE – Answer will be found on the Summerhall website…

Please send your answer by email to theedinburghreporter@gmail.com with ‘Competition Nile Rodgers’ in the subject line to arrive no later than 10:00pm on 16 June 2013.

The winner will be notified by email and will receive two tickets to attend the event at Summerhall. There is no cash alternative.

GOOD LUCK!

A driver had a lucky escape this morning when a crane dropped the load it was lifting onto the vehicle. The accident happened this morning on Great Junction Street.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said:- “The crane dropped its load onto a car that was being driven along Great Junction Street. The road was closed and the area was made safe.”

Two people were treated for minor injuries according to reports.

The Reporter was down on Great Junction Street just yesterday at the ground-breaking ceremony for the Himalayan Centre. The crane was working away yesterday afternoon lifting what appeared to be a window or door for the new mixed housing/retail development high above the street.

Photographs from today: Courtesy of Danny Hardwick

Scotland’s first multi-disciplinary craft workshop, gallery and shop are nearing completion thanks to over 1000 hours spent by volunteers renovating new premises in the Old Town.

Edinburgh Contemporary Crafts (ECC) is now open for business on Blair Street with a range of exciting craft courses available to the public. Volunteers have spent the last three weeks restoring the derelict premises, including stripping everything back to the original stonework and features and creating specialist workshop facilities.

The concept is the vision of Louise Smith who established ECC in 2011, providing workshop space on Home Street for nine resident makers who taught more than 200 would-be crafters over 18 months. Having outgrown its former home, Louise found the new Blair Street premises and launched a crowd-funding campaign which has already raised £8,000 locally towards refurbishments. The new multi-disciplinary craft workshop – offering courses in screen printing, illustration, crafted textiles, book binding, dressmaking and upholstery – is now open to the public.

A taster day of workshops will take place from 10am – 5.30pm tomorrow Saturday 8 June 2013, with workshops including textiles, print making, pottery, book binding and jewellery. Each workshop lasts for 1.5 hours so attendees will have chance to try out at least three processes, and there will be demonstrations from the ECC resident makers throughout the day. Lunch is included and there will be a bar and live music afterwards. Tutors are giving their time for free so that any profits can go towards renovating the gallery space.

Tickets cost £55 (which covers all materials used and lunch) and are available to purchase online: http://www.edinburghcontemporarycrafts.co.uk/coursebooking.html.

The permanent gallery, which will showcase local craft talent, is due to open at 7:00pm on Thursday 27 June and the shop opening is planned for July.

Louise Smith said:-“I’m delighted and slightly overwhelmed by what we’ve achieved in one month. It’s all been possible thanks to a group of really hard-working and competent volunteers who’ve been able to turn their hands to many things. We’ve demolished walls and stripped back years of layers to reveal original stonework, laid a new floor and constructed studio spaces for 28 residents, plus jewellery benches, a six meter textile print table, a pottery area, and huge communal work spaces.

“It’s been exhausting but a lot of fun and already you can feel the creative energy as everyone begins to move in. We’re all really looking forward to the opening and the following months as the next block of courses start and the gallery begins to take shape.”

All those involved in running Edinburgh Contemporary Crafts are practicing makers who are passionate about their craft, enjoy teaching, and believe that craft can be a catalyst for social and personal change. The move to Blair Street will now help to support new and established makers and encourage public appreciation and enjoyment of quality Scottish craft.

• Before and after pictures of the premises are available to view here: http://www.edinburghcontemporarycrafts.co.uk/renovations.html

Edinburgh Contemporary Crafts

• ECC provides a multi-disciplinary workshop which supports new and established makers and encourages collaboration and innovation while developing a thriving craft community

• ECC engages all areas of the community through courses, projects and membership while promoting public appreciation of craft through a permanent gallery and shop and a changing exhibition programme

• ECC has already attracted wide support in the form of donations of time and expertise in exchange for courses and membership, so far including: website development; public relations; photography; architectural planning; a structural engineer; a plumber, and a carpenter. A ‘skills bank’ will soon be launched to allow for trades (such as landscape garners and hairdressers) or services (such as restaurants or childcare) to exchange their skills and services for courses and/or membership

• For details on business sponsorship opportunities visit: http://www.edinburghcontemporarycrafts.co.uk/sponsorship.html

Submitted by Samantha McKay-Challen

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses after a blind woman was assaulted last week.

The 48-year-old was walking in Hutchison Crossway at around 2.30pm on Saturday 1 June 2013 when she heard a group of youths behind her.

At this time the victim heard one of the group making an offensive remark about her disability before she was struck to the back and fell to the ground.

A member of the public came to the victims aid and she returned home then contacted police the following day.

Officers have since been conducting local enquiries to identify those responsible and are now keen to hear from anyone who can assist with their investigation.

A Police Scotland spokesman said:- “This was a cowardly assault on a defenceless woman who was unable to identify her attacker.

“As such, we would ask anyone who was in the area on Saturday afternoon and remembers seeing anything suspicious to contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone with more information that can help officers with their enquiries is also asked to come forward.”

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