Plans to simplify and overhaul Scotland’s allotment rules were announced today by The Scottish Government.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead has launched a consultation to consider the shape of future allotment legislation.

Among the questions being asked are:

Should councils be required to provide people in their area within a specified timeframe

Should councils have a duty to provide a specific number of allotments in their area per head of population

Mr Lochhead said:-“Growing your own food is continuing to grow in popularity in Scotland and this goes hand in hand with an increasing desire to know where our food comes from.

“Allotments provide a range of benefits including better health, an opportunity to learn new skills, and an understanding of where food comes from – not forgetting the chance to eat the fruits of your labour. We’re committed to helping people to grow their own food and this consultation will consider what changes should be made to the existing legislation to make it simpler and fit for today’s community needs.

“Many communities have expressed a desire to get back to nature and more involved with growing their own food and that’s exactly what we’re working to make possible.”

Allotment consultation

Here in Edinburgh the council is currently working in terms of  the allotment strategy which was agreed upon and published in 2010. New allotments have been opened at India Place, in response to the finding that there were at least twice as many people on the waiting list as there were plots. However now there is a four year waiting list for the 22 raised beds which were formed there. One of the main presumptions in the new council strategy was to presume against allotment holders using vehicles to get to their allotment site, so this gets rid of any need to provide car parking.

There are other initiatives to provide more space in the city for gardeners who do not have their own land. The Edinburgh Garden Share Scheme is an arrangement for a gardener to take over a garden where perhaps the owner is older and is not able to keep the garden any longer. This promotes gardening and also some social interaction. The prospective gardeners are subject to a Disclosure Scotland check.

There are also community gardens projects across the city funded by the Climate Challenge Fund, who have also recently announced substantial funding for a new scheme in Wester Hailes called Edible Estates.

In September last year the council’s Transport and Environment Committee agreed:- “That land already in the ownership of the Council be used to establish new allotment sites before additional land on the outskirts of the city was purchased and that regular progress reports be presented to Committee.”

There have been no further reports on this matter since last September.

There is information for prospective allotment holders here on the council website, but don’t get out your spade just yet there is  still a long waiting list.

Normally the Edinburgh Reporter’s Weekly Sports Round-up starts with rugby, but not this week as we send out congratulations to Pat Fenlon and his players for reaching the William Hill Scottish Cup Final after a sensational comeback from 3-0 down to beat Falkirk after extra time at Hampden Park on Saturday. This result means that Hibs will play in back to back Scottish Cup Finals for the first time since 1923/24.

Also a big ‘well done’ to everyone who braved the inclement weather to take part in the Rock and Roll Half Marathon. 

Football

Over 17,000 Hibs fans made the trip to the national stadium, but they were stunned to be three goals down after 30 minutes, however a spirited second half performance with goals from teenage winger Alex Harris, Leigh Griffiths and Eoin Doyle levelled the score-line, before man of the match Griffiths sealed a famous victory with a stunning 30 yard strike near the end.

After the game, an emotionally drained Pat Fenlon said:-  “It was a horrendous first half, but we showed tremendous character and played really well after that.  It wasn’t much of a team talk and more of a rant, but it worked. But, in fairness to the players, they knew they’d let themselves down and the fans. I felt like leaving myself at half-time. It was difficult to watch and difficult to take and I apologise to the supporters for that first half – and that’s down to me.”

“We put everybody through the wringer today but have shown tremendous character. The players themselves had plenty to say at half-time, but it was a tremendous comeback.”

“But what they have shown is that there’s massive, massive character within the group and they’ve shown that in spades – and that end of the game was different class.”

“Young Danny (Handling) and Alex (Harris) were different class for us and it was difficult for them to come on when we were chasing the game. Leigh Griffiths doesn’t miss too many penalties, but we just got back to passing the ball after that. Today wasn’t Leigh’s best game for us, but the finish for the goal, that’s him. He doesn’t let things like that bother him and he’s got a great attitude. I’m delighted for him too because he’s Hibs-daft and wanted to be in the final; we’re there now.

“We’ve got five big league games to show that desire again too. We’ve had some tremendous games this year: Hearts in the first round and Aberdeen, Kilmarnock and now Falkirk; we’ll worry about the final and see what happens then.”

Hibs will face Celtic in the Final after another epic semi at the national stadium on Sunday. Kris Commons gave the Hoops an early lead, but Dundee United fought back and took the lead through goals from Gary Mackay-Stevens and Jon Daly. Celtic equalised through Victor Wanyama, before Commons added his second and Celtic’s third, but a late Jon Daly header sent the tie into extra time.

Former Hibs striker Anthony Stokes scored Celtic’s fourth with a bullet header in the 11th minute, and Celtic held on to make the final an all green affair.

Jamie Walker was voted Hearts’ Young Player of the Year at the club’s 
annual awards ceremony at Tynecastle.

The winger, who has broken into the first team this season and earned a call-up to the Scotland Under-21 squad, was presented with his award by Hearts manager Gary Locke, above. The Under-20s prize went to midfielder Callum Tapping, while Angus Beith took the Under-17s player of the year award.

Gary Stoddart received the George Nicolson Recognition Award for his coaching role with the club’s Academy despite battling serious illness.

Hearts are bidding to fill Tynecastle for their next home match by dropping all ticket prices to £5 for the visit of St Mirren on Saturday, May 4.

East of Scotland Football

In the Central Taxis Premier Division, Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale beat Edinburgh University 2-0, whilst Heriot Watt went down by the same score-line away to Gretna.

Civil Service Strollers lost 4-0 away to Vale of Leithen, and Edinburgh City lost 2-0 to Whitehill Welfare.

In the First Division, Leith Athletic travelled to the Borders and returned with full points after beating Kelso 4-2, and Craigroyston beat Selkirk 2-1.

Spartans secured their place in the Central Taxis’ League Cup semi-final with a convincing 5-1 victory over Tynecastle at Ainslie Park.

Spartans took the lead in the 13th minute, when Mark Whatley’s shot hit Robbie Manson who slotted the ball home. Willie Bremner doubled the lead in the 20th minute when he rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into the net, before Tynecastle got themselves back into the game in the 38th minute when Daryl Burdett headed into the net from a corner kick. Tynecastle’s Nyancho Manneh was shown a straight red card in the 62nd minute after slapping Kevin Motion, and with 15 minutes remaining Gary Cennerazzo sealed the win when his shot beat Banaszynski in the Tynecastle goal.

Three minutes later Donal Henretty pounced on a mistake by the Tynecastle keeper to score a fourth then sub Andy Martin poked the ball home from a few yards out for a fifth.

Malt & Hops Man of the Match: Gary Cennerazzo

Women’s Football

Spartans beat Falkirk 4-0 at Ainslie Park. Reilly opened the scoring with a header from a Ewens’ cross then added a second from a Barry pass. Reilly got her hat-trick in the 56^th minute after heading home a Marshall free-kick and Marshall completed the scoring firing into the bottom corner from a Jenkins’ through ball.

Elsewhere, Hibs Ladies beat Celtic 3-2 thanks to goals from Caroline Weir, Siobhan Hunter and Susan Fairley. After the game a delighted Joelle Murray tweeted; “So proud of my team-mates today. They battled together and kept running until the final whistle and showed great team spirit.”

Louise Kerr, Toni Bertram and Lia Tweedie scored for Hibs Development team who beat Boroughmuir Development 3-1 in the League Cup Division Two at Meggetland

Rugby by John Preece

…will start off with a correction to last week’s report where it was stated that Edinburgh Accies finished third in the Premier Division. They did, in fact, finish in fourth place, but still qualify for the British and Irish Cup. Apologies to Stirling County who actually finished the season in third.

And a bit more action this week as Edinburgh played their second last home match of the season against Connacht. The big question was ‘Could they make it three in a row?’ The big – and short -answer was ‘No!’ Connacht have come a long way in the last few years and are no longer the whipping boys of the ‘Celtic’ sides. They had Edinburgh on the back foot for long periods and were really the only side that looked likely to score a try. This feat they managed twice to Edinburgh’s none on the way to their 32-24 victory, in spite of Greg Laidlaw’s eight from nine penalty success. Lion’s call-up?

This result was in league with that of The Highlanders from Dunedin in New Zealand, who were soundly beaten by the Brumbies 30-19 in the Super 15’s but managed to retain their fifteenth place in the table.

A great day’s seven-a-side rugby was on offer on Saturday at the Melrose Sevens (http://www.melrose7s.com/and is where the results, etc. can be found. With no Southern hemisphere teams making the trip this year, it fell to Europe to supply the ‘class acts’ with Saracens, Worcester and Clermon Auvergne all entering teams. In addition, India had entered a development team with an eye on next year’s Commonwealth games. In all, 24 teams went into the draw, including all six of Edinburgh’s major clubs, with only Heriots making it through in the draw to the second round, the other five teams having to go through preliminary first round matches.

Boroughmuir and Watsonians went through to join Heriots, but only Heriots made it any further. Boroughmuir went down fighting to Worcester and Watsonians lost out to hosts, Melrose.

In the Quarter-finals, Heriots came up against English Premiership side, Saracens, and were comprehensively beaten 31-10.

At least they can say they were beaten by the overall winners. Saracens met French side, Clermont Auvergne in a thrilling final, which the English team won 24-22 with an overtime try and conversion.

Edinburgh Rock and Roll Half Marathon.

A huge ‘well done’ to everyone who braved the dismal weather conditions and ran in the Edinburgh Rock and Roll Marathon on Sunday.

The race was first run in 2010 as the Chris Hoy Edinburgh Half Marathon and was a great success, raising money for numerous local and national charities. The race looks set to be a regular annual feature, allowing runners to enjoy the scenery of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth coastline. It started in Meadowbank Stadium, and from there the route took the runners away from the centre of Edinburgh towards the coast at Portobello before heading southwards to the finish line at Musselburgh Racecourse.

The first man home was Bryan Mackie in a time of 1.15.24, followed by Robert Watson on 1.18.24 then Robert Weston on 1.19.00

The winning woman was Holly Rush who completed the course in 1.21.52. Second was Christy Gelineau on 1.23.14 and third Danielle Sansonetti on 1.28.44

Speedway

Edinburgh Scotwaste Monarchs took a 27-point lead in the first leg of their knockout cup tie against Leicester, on a cold, wet night Friday night in Armadale.

DDS Monarch of the Match award was won by Hungarian Jozsef Tabaka. was unbeaten from his first five rides, including the race of the night against Lasse Bjerre in heat 12.

Claus Vissing had another excellent meeting, as did Craig Cook.

The following night, the Monarchs travelled to Leicester where they lost by two points to take the tie comfortably 102-77.

Their away fixture against Glasgow Tigers, scheduled for Sunday night was postponed.

Meanwhile the Monarchs’ hopes of gaining a visa reprieve for stranded Australian star Sam Masters are diminishing fast. His visa expired in November and he must wait 12 months before applying for a new permit.

Basketball

City of Edinburgh Kings will meet Edinburgh Lions in the Lothian Men’s Basketball Cup Final on Saturday, May 4, after both sides won their semi-finals at Portobello High School last weekend.

Kings defeated Wolves 73-66  whilst the Lions disposed of Edinburgh and Borders Police 75-41.

In the Women’s tournament, City of Edinburgh Kool Kats lost 55-48 to Comets who will play Midlothian Saints in the final.

On Sunday the Kings beat Glasgow University 81-54 at the Emirates Arena in the Senior Men’s League.

Elsewhere, basketballscotland have announced a new partnership with The University of Edinburgh to deliver a High Performance Basketball Programme for female athletes in the 2013-14 season.

The partnership will create the first High Performance Basketball Programme for University-aged female athletes here in Scotland, giving players the opportunity to develop their skills alongside completing their academic studies at one of the world’s leading Universities. For the first time, Scottish female athletes will have a structured, progressive and well-resourced home-based alternative to other programmes in the UK, Europe or the rest of the World, if they are serious about continuing their improvement in basketball at university.

Details of the programme will be developed over the coming months, in advance of the 2013-14 season.

Athletics

Professional athletics is returning to Meadowbank, with promoter Frank Hanlon launching a new meeting, the Meadowbank Games, to be held on the evening of Friday, June 21.

Prizes range from £250 for first in the 100 metres open handicap and £200 for first in a scratch 110 metres race to £75 for first in five youth handicap races, ranging from 100 metres to 1600 metres. In all there are 17 events and entries will close on June 1.

The famous New Year Sprint which moved briefly to Meadowbank from Powderhall then moved to Musselburgh Racecourse in December 1999 due to the cost of hiring the facilities.

Boxing

Edinburgh boxer Craig McEwan has signed a three-year contract with New York boxing promoter Lou DiBella. Craig lived in Los Angeles for seven years before returning home to his native Scotland last year.

The 31 year old middleweight’s fight with Huddersfield’s Alastair Warren at Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall on Saturday ended in a draw after the Englishman picked up a cut after an accidental clash of heads in the first round.

Golf

Lothians did well to earn a 5-5 draw with Stirlingshire at Glenbervie.

Graham Robertson, (Silverknowes), Anthony Blaney (Liberton), Calum Hill (Tantallon) and Gary Corrigan (Greeburn) all won for the visitors with Benn McLeod (Musselburgh) and Ross Noon (Craigielaw) both earning half points.

Hockey

Inverleith lost 3-0 to Grovehill Menzies at Peffermill on Saturday in the semi-finals of the Men’s Arthur McKay Scottish Cup Final. Menzies will play Glynhill Hotel Kelburne in the final on Saturday 25 May.

Inverleith had appealed to Scottish Hockey to change the date of the game but a compromise was reached with a noon start which allowed several players to attend a wedding.

Volleyball

The inaugural Final 4 Playoffs took place at Wishaw Sports Centre, featuring a total of 14 matches with Division 1 and 2 Teams fighting for the right to call themselves Playoff Champions

On Saturday, in the Men’s Final 4 Playoffs, Edinburgh Jets beat Kilmarnock Blaze 3-2; 25-22, 22-25, 20-25, 25-21, 13-15. City of Edinburgh beat Bon Accord 3-0; 25-12, 25-14, 25-19

In the Women’s Final 4 Playoffs, City of Edinburgh beat Edinburgh Jets 3-1; 25-22, 16-25, 25-19, 25-11.

In the Division 2 Final Playoffs NUVOC lost 2-3 to Dundee; 25-20, 25-21, 10-25, 16-25, 13-15. Edinburgh Jets II beat Glasgow International 3-1; 23-25, 26-24, 25-14, 25-23. City of Edinburgh II lost 3-2 to Bellshill Cardinals; 25-21, 25-20, 22-25, 22-25, 12-15.

American Football

The Edinburgh Wolves American football team celebrate their tenth anniversary this year and look to mark the occasion by bringing home the 2013 national championship title.

The Wolves beat Clyde Valley Blackhawks 26-0 onSunday at Meadowbank Stadium. in the first game of the new season.

They, who compete in the National Northern Division of the British American Football Association National League (BAFANL), and are current Division champions, but fell to defeat in the play-off semi-finals to eventual winners the Sheffield Predators last August.

Swimming

Fifteen year old Duncan Scott set a new Scottish junior and British age group record in the 50m freestyle at last night’s Scottish Gas National Championships at Edinburgh’s Royal Commonwealth Pool.

The youngster set a new mark of 23.75 in the one length race, having minutes earlier won the 200m backstroke in 2:09.80

Elsewhere, three-time Olympian Caitlin McClatchey (Edinburgh University) also had to settle for silver in the 50m freestyle (26.54) behind Carnegie’s Eloise Barber (26.48).

Warrender’s Craig McNally took the 17 and over 200m backstroke (2:02.45), while Katie Stark won the 14 years (27.36) and Richard Schafers the 17 and over (23.23) 50m freestyle

High Jump

High Jump athlete, Allan Smith, currently in America completing his winter training in a warmer climate, has won his first outdoor competition of the season at the US National Training Center Throws & Jumps Meet #6 in Clermont, Florida.

His winning leap of 2.17m was also the Scottish team qualifying standard height for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2014.

Monday holiday – Planning – Baby Charlotte – Salaries for University bosses criticised – People’s Postcode Lottery Seed Truck

Today is officially a Monday holiday in Edinburgh. Are you on holiday? What are you doing with your day off? Do you think that local holidays are useful? Or would it be better if we had national holidays?

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From the planning Weekly List we have noticed a couple of applications. Changes are afoot at Odeon Lothian Road where the owners would like to alter the entranceway. All of the planning papers are here including a drawing of the proposed elevation. They plan to have two sets of automatic sliding doors.

Out at Asda at Chesser they plan to build a drive through area for shoppers to collect their groceries.

And perhaps in some good news for Leith, on Leith Walk there is an application for a mixed use development of a site at Shrub Place previously used as a tram/bus depot.

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Police have traced 37-year-old Cliff Steel, who was reported missing from his home in Edinburgh on 3 April 2013.   He was found safe and well yesterday in Kent.

Police are however still looking for the mother of baby Charlotte who was found at Hailesland Park on Thursday afternoon and there will be a photo call later today at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary to show the baby off again, in the hope that the mother may come forward.

The baby was named after PC Charlotte Work, who carried her to the hospital, who said: -“I am delighted that baby Charlotte is doing well and that there are no concerns for her health. As part of my duties it was important that an officer accompanied the child to the hospital, but it is very flattering that the staff chose to name her after me.

“What is more important, however, is for us to trace Charlotte’s mother and ensure she receives all the necessary medical attention and support she requires.

“I would urge her to get in touch with her doctor, attend at hospital or contact police so we can make sure she is safe and well.

“Similarly, we would like anyone with information that can assist us with our enquiries to contact Police Scotland on 101 immediately.” Our main photo today shows a rear view of Hailesland Park where baby Charlotte was found on a bench.

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In advance of the expected publication of the proposed code of good governance for Scottish universities this week, National Union of Students, NUS Scotland, has produced a report showing the worrying levels of high pay among senior staff atScottish universities.

The report collated figures taken from the most recent university financial statements and existing freedom of information requests, and found:

• Average basic pay (before pension contributions and benefits in kind) is over £200,00
• Just two principals have a salary below that of the First Minister
• Across 18 institutions, 88 individuals earn more than the First Minister
• On average, across Scotland the highest university earner receives 16.10 times the lowest (full-time equivalent)

In its submission to the consultants undertaking the development of the governance code, NUS Scotland has called for an explicit maximum ratio between highest and lowest earners, staff and student representation on university remuneration committees, and greater transparency in the setting and reporting of senior level pay.

Robin Parker, President of NUS Scotland said:- “It’s unjustifiable for university principals and other senior staff to routinely be paid such large sums. There are 88 senior staff members at Scottish universities who earn more than the First Minister, and across our institutions the gap between the lowest and highest paid is too large, with some receiving almost 20 times that of the lowest paid university employee.

“Universities need academic autonomy, but they should not have the freedom to pay such large salaries and to allow large gaps between those at the top end and the lowest paid. There are hundreds of millions of pounds of public money quite rightly going into universities over the next few years, we must make sure that this money is used on the front line, not on increasing already substantial senior salaries.

“At a time when everyone is feeling the pinch it would be completely out of touch for university principals to think we didn’t need to have greater controls on such high levels of pay. Last year’s review into university governance was absolutely right to recognise that controversies over high pay undermines the trust we put in our universities. When there are senior managers getting paid far above and beyond what even the First Minister does, while the tens of thousands of staff below them receive a fraction of that, you can see why.

“The forthcoming governance code for Scottish universities provides the opportunity to start addressing the imbalance we see in university pay. A maximum pay ratio between highest and lowest earners and greater staff and student input into pay decisions are just two ways we can tackle inflated pay. These need to be defined in to code to ensure that we have that vital trust in our universities and those who are leading them.”

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Tomorrow there is a mini-Seed Truck event organised by People’s Postcode Lottery on Castle Street. The Seed Truck visits schools and community groups across Scotland, educating visitors in growing their own produce and taking action on climate change.

Their expertise has led to an increase in urban community gardens across the country. The branded van (which we are told looks really cool!) will be on Castle Street from 11am – 2pm and will be open to the public to go along and see / learn how they can create their own urban garden spaces.

Meantime there has been another Edinburgh winner…..! See our article here.

The People’s Postcode Lottery has announced another Edinburgh winner.

Elaine from Gyle Park Gardens  won £20,000. Well done!

Gyle Park Gardens resident, Elaine Brown, was the lucky player to win the impressive sum, after her postcode, EH12 8NQ, was drawn as the Saturday Street prize winner. ‘Gobsmacked’ at having won, 51-year-old Elaine was left ‘feeling wonderful’ after she revealed her winning cheque and saw the £20,000 figure.

“This just isn’t something you imagine will happen to you,” said Elaine. “I have to keep pinching myself to realise that it’s true. It is such a surprise, but a lovely surprise nonetheless.

“We haven’t been on holiday abroad for about seven years or so, so this will definitely be used for myself, my husband, Hugh, and our daughter Sarah to jet off on holiday somewhere and get some sun.”

Although the couple has had a few ideas of where they will go, they are planning on keeping the holiday plans a secret from their 11-year-old daughter, Sarah.

“We have a few ideas of where we would like to go, but we’ve not told Sarah,” continued Elaine. “The last time we went away we went to Portugal, so she will probably think we’re going there. But we’ll keep it a surprise for her for a wee while.”

And although it was their Edinburgh address and lucky postcode that won Elaine and Hugh the fantastic sum, the couple are both originally from the West Coast, from Cumbernauld and Bishopbriggs respectively. They both moved to Edinburgh for work, where Hugh works in communications for CrossReach and Elaine has been working as a project worker for Barnardos for 24 years.

Both working in the charity sector, Elaine and Hugh appreciate how important it is to raise money for charities and good causes all across the country. In fact, together, players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £24.7 million to date, with more than £614,000 being awarded to good causes throughout Edinburgh city.

People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador and Street Prize Presenter Judie McCourt said; “It was great to meet Elaine and find out more about how she and Hugh are going to spend their winnings. We’re sure they will have a wonderful time on holiday, wherever they go. Congratulations again and thanks to players for their continued support of the many fantastic good causes all across the country.”

2013 Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens

A great day’s seven-a-side rugby was on offer on Saturday at the Melrose Sevens and, as usual, a great day was to be had. With no Southern hemisphere teams making the trip this year, it fell to Europe to supply the ‘class acts’ with Saracens, Worcester and Clermon Auvergne all entering teams. In addition, India had entered a development team with an eye on next year’s Commonwealth games. In all, 24 teams went into the draw, including all six of Edinburgh’s major clubs, with only Heriots making it through in the draw to the second round, the other five teams having to go through preliminary first round matches.

First up in the Edinburgh batch were Currie and Boroughmuir. With this draw, at least one Edinburgh side were going to suffer a very short involvement in the tournament. And that dubious ‘honour’ went to Currie as ‘Muir went through in a convincing 22-5 victory. Stewarts-Melville were next in line against Gala and the Borders side did the business with an even more convincing 33-7 win. Two down four to go. It was then Watsonians turn to keep Edinburgh’s heads up and this they did, again convincingly, 26-5 against Glasgow Hawks.

So far so good. Edinburgh Accies then had a potential banana skin match against Howe-of-Fife, a team three divisions below in the grand scheme of things, and a banana skin it nearly proved to be. 19-14 ahead, Accies just managed to hold out in the dying seconds to take the win.

So that took care of Round 1.

Boroughmuir had the first go with a mouth watering match-up with English Premiership side, Worcester Warriors. And they pushed the visitors all the way with some superb play, but just failed to take the match, going down 22-21 to the Pro side. Watsonians had won through to meet host side, Melrose, and in another close match, Melrose eventually won that one, 24-19. The final Edinburgh involvement in Round 2 was down to Heriots, who had fellow Premier Division side Edinburgh Accies to face. This one wasn’t so close. and the Goldenacre men ran out, relatively, easy 31-7 victors and went on to face Saracens as the only Edinburgh representatives in the Quarter-finals.

And the Quarter-finals is where local involvement ceased. Saracens, having disposed of Peebles – and who thought that would ever be announced as a fixture – outscored Heriots 31-10 to face Aberdeen in the Semi finals.

The four Semi-finalist were Ayr – who beat Worcester 33-17 in the Quarter’s – were up against French Super-team, Clermont Avergne, and the aforementioned Aberdeen and Saracens. As, probably, expected, the matches went the way of the respective Professional teams with Ayr losing out 22-12 and Aberdeen giving Saracens more than a bit of a fright in their 24-19 defeat.

Which left the Final. Clermont v Saracens. A fitting match-up in the final round of the oldest seven’s tournament in the World. And what a match it turned out to be. With Saracens taking an early 12-0 lead in first two minutes of the first half, it was looking like a none-event, but Clermont were only warming up it seemed. Scoring three unanswered tries of their own, the half time score stood at 17-12 to the French team.

Saracens soon gained possession in the second half and pushed Clermont back, eventually coming up with the equalising try, which was answered almost immediately by the men in yellow, who scored a controversial touch down. With no TMO available it was down to the official in the goal area to award the try. A close look on the BBC’s big screen, however, appeared to show that the ball was grounded on the dead-ball line, but the decision had been made and the score stood. In a hopeless display of drop kicking from both teams, the kick was once again missed and the score was 22-17 to Clermont. The last couple of minutes were edge of the seat stuff, with Clermont trying to hold on and Saracens trying to catch up. However, a final minute attack saw Saracens upfield and engineering a bit of space, which saw them over the line for the try (pictured). A collective holding of breath for the kick saw a hush descend, and it seemed to work as the final touch of the ball saw it through the posts to give Saracens the win with a very close run 24-22 victory.

What a fitting way to end the 123rd running of this tournament, which goes from strength to strength each year, with bigger sponsors allowing the addition of ‘bigger’ taems, but not at the expense of the likes of Peebles and Howe-of-Fife. It’s also fairly certain that Melrose will be ‘tidying’ up for a few days to come!

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

Baby Charlotte doing well at Simpsons – Fire in West Lothian – Edinburgh High Jumper on way to Commonwealth Games – Rock n Roll – Today at The Cameo

Our main photo today is provided by NHS Lothian and shows the baby found next to a block of flats known as Hailesland Park being cuddled by the nurse looking after her at the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh. Police remain concerned for the welfare of the baby’s mother who it is presumed left her on a bench on Thursday afternoon. The baby has been named after the police officer who carried her to the hospital.

Some of the bigger newspapers such as The Telegraph have displayed their lack of local knowledge by claiming that the baby was left in a park. The nearest park is Hailes Quarry Park further along the canal, where there is an outdoor gym, but the baby was left on a bench near flats which are only a couple of hundred metres from Wester Hailes Police Station.

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A fire this morning at the Five Sisters Zoo in Polbeth has been brought under control, but some animals have perished in the fierce blaze.

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High Jump athlete, Allan Smith, is currently in America completing his winter training in a warmer climate. He won his first outdoor competition of the season at the US National Training Center Throws & Jumps Meet #6 in Clermont, Florida.

His winning leap of 2.17m was also the Scottish team qualifying standard height for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2014. The qualification window opened on 1 April 2013. We interviewed Allan earlier in the year which you can watch here.

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The Rock n Roll Half Marathon began this morning just after 9. It finishes in Holyrood Park where there is supposed to be a Finish Line Festival with live music. It may be that the weather will finish that off this morning….

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Loads of good things on today at The Cameo. You can get in out of the rain here. The Cameo is our favourite because of the snacks they serve – which are a cut above some others… Do you have a favourite cinema?

Today they are screening Trance which has had some mixed reviews….. What is your view?

Firefighters have controlled the fire at the Five Sisters zoo which broke out just before 4am this morning. Resources have been scaled back to two fire appliances and crews remain on site dealing with small pockets of fire and assisting zoo and vet staff.

The alarm was raised at 3.50am this morning to reports that the tropical house at the zoo was well alight.

Five fire appliances were mobilised to the scene and a number of specialist appliances including a turntable ladder which was used as a water tower. The water bowser was also requested from Larbert to assist with water provision. Firefighters were able to help them rescue two dwarf crocodiles and an otter, but sadly some animals have perished in the fierce fire.

Full details of the animals affected will not be available for some time until it is safe for zoo staff to access affected areas.

The tropical house were the fire broke out was well alight when crews arrived on scene. High winds made firefighting conditions more difficult but crews successfully battled to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring animal enclosures.

Fortunately the fire is now predominantly out and firefighters are checking to ensure no fire spread and help zoo staff on site to assess the damage.

No people were injured as a result of the fire.

An investigation into the cause of the blaze will now take place.

SNP MSP WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

Warnings from the cruise industry of the chaos being caused by the UK Border Force’s new procedures – which have so far fallen on deaf ears – are being reinforced by the Scottish Government to in the form a letter to the UK minister of state for immigration.

The agency’s new interpretation of the rules is causing significant problems to the industry, with every cruise ship passenger now subject to a face to face interview upon arriving in anywhere in the UK.

Previously cruise ship passengers and crews were cleared in advance with manifests checked via agents.

With large cruise ships potentially carrying thousands of passengers at a time, the delays and increased costs associated with the move are causing fears that operators will become increasingly reluctant to visit Scotland, reversing the rapid growth that the industry has seen in recent years.

Last year visitors to Scotland from cruise ships were estimated to have generated £41 million for Scotland’s economy.

Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism Fergus Ewing MSP wrote: -“This is very damaging: it reduces the length of time available on-shore and makes cruise companies less inclined to call at UK ports – both are highly detrimental to local economies.

“We believe it is also functionally redundant as these checks duplicate the rigorous controls performed at the port of embarkation when passengers initially check-in for cruise embarkation.”

Stuart McMillan MSP wrote to the Westminster Government in early December highlighting the problems that the new approach, but received no reply. Mr McMillan, who convenes the Cross Party Group on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism, also spoke with Cruise Scotland Chairman Richard Alexander who is equally concerned about the changes.

Mr McMillan said:-“The cruise ship sector is increasingly important to Scotland’s economy, with passenger numbers growing rapidly as more and more people visit our shores via cruise ship. I am delighted that Fergus Ewing has made contact with the UK government – they can no longer stay silent on this issue which has a profound impact on Scotland’s economy.

“We should be doing everything we can to boost and support the tourism sector, not putting ill-considered obstacles in its path as Westminster seems determined to do. It is completely unacceptable for Westminster to simply ignore the repeated warnings that the cruise industry has given them. These latest calls must act as a wakeup call to Westminster that can no longer simply be brushed aside.

“Instead of continuing to put the arbitrary goals of the Tories ahead of the needs of this multi-million pound sector of the tourism industry, Westminster must listen to the evidence and bring an end to this chaotic new approach as a matter of urgency.”

Letter From Scot Govt to Min for State for Immigration – Passport Checks – 28th March 13

A survey for the Scottish Greens shows a strong appetite among Scots for the Government to set a target to ensure all school leavers are able to cook a basic meal from scratch.

By contrast the major supermarkets, who already control three-quarters of our grocery spending, are encouraging the growth of the ready meals sector through advertising campaigns, broadcasts and billboards. The UK ready meal market, which has been at the centre of the horsemeat scandal, continues to grow at five per cent a year and is now worth £1 billion a year.

The Panelbase survey for the Scottish Greens shows 79 per cent of 1,000 Scots agreed with the need for a target for school leavers, while only 7 per cent disagreed.

Other research suggests the majority of 18-25 year olds leave home without the ability to cook a simple recipe such as Spaghetti Bolognese, with many relying on ready meals and takeaways.

Alison Johnstone, Green MSP for Lothian and spokesperson on food and education for the Scottish Greens, said:

“We have a growing problem with obesity and ready meals are nutritionally haphazard.  It’s time the Scottish Government challenged the big manufacturers and retailers. The inconvenient truth about many convenience foods is they make big firms big profits while public health pays dearly.

“Curriculum for Excellence has great potential and I would urge the government to recognise the appetite there is for ensuring school leavers are able to cook. As more people question what’s in the food they’re buying due to the horsemeat scandal it’s important we establish a balanced food culture from the start.”

Hibs staged perhaps the greatest comeback in their 138 year history on Saturday to beat Falkirk 4-3 and secure a place in next month’s William Hill Scottish Cup Final.

In doing so however, the players took the fans from the depth of despair to absolute delirium in a pulsating 120 minutes of football from both teams.

Three goals down in 30 minutes, Hibs were loudly booed off the park at half time, but the players responded with a fantastic second half performance to take the game to extra time before Leigh Griffiths sealed the win with a stunning 30 yard drive near the end.

The result creates a little bit of history for the manager and players who now become the first Hibs side in almost 90 years to reach back to back Scottish Cup Finals.

Over 17,000 Hibs fans made the pilgrimage to the national stadium in confident mood, despite the poor form displayed this year, but their journey was rewarded by a dismal Hibs first half performance which saw them 3-0 down within half an hour.

The supporters were in good voice and produced a spectacular display when the teams emerged from the tunnel, including a large banner to commemorate Canon Hannon.

Fenlon had a full squad to pick from and made two changes to the team who lost to Celtic last weekend, with Paul Cairney and Scott Robertson replacing David Wotherspoon and Gary Deegan.

The Bairns took the lead in the 6th minute when Craig Sibbald latched onto the end of a Lyle Taylor cutback and slotted the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.

Hibs should have equalised three minutes later when Leigh Griffiths cross found Scott Robertson unmarked at the edge of the six yards box, but the former Dundee United midfielder’s mishit his shot badly.

Sibbald took a free-kick from just inside Hibs’ half, which was headed on by Flynn to McGrandles whose cross was headed into the net by Jay Fulton to the delight of the Falkirk fans including dad Stevie who was the man of the match for Celtic the 1989 Scottish Cup semi-final win over Hibs.

In the 28^th minute, another Falkirk attack resulted in a third goal, when the ball fell to Taylor whose early shot was parried by Williams into the path of Blair Alston who slid it into the empty net.

Pat Fenlon immediately replaced Robertson with Danny Handling as some Hibs fans started to leave the stadium to the chants of ‘Cheerio Cheerio’ from the jubilant Falkirk fans.

Hibs left the field to a chorus of boos and Fenlon replaced Cairney with Chesterfield bound Eoin Doyle but it was the Bairns who started brightly with both Taylor and McGrandles going close in the first two minutes.

Hibs almost pulled one back in the 49th minute when Doyle found Harris but his volley was well saved, then from, the resulting corner Hibs were denied a penalty when Clancy was upended in the box, but the constant pressure finally paid off and a goal came one minute later. Alex Harris picked up a loose ball in midfield and sent a sensational 30 yard shot into the top corner to give the Hibs’ fans some hope.

Hibs missed the chance to score in the 71^st minute when Danny Handling was brought down in the box by Stewart Murdoch, but McGovern saved Griffiths’ penalty then did even better by saving at the feet of Doyle who was following up.

With 13 minutes remaining, Hibs pulled back a second when McGivern split the Bairns defence and found Harris who cut the ball back for Griffiths to score to set up a breathtaking finish.

A minute later, Doyle found Griffiths with a long ball, but he was crowded out by three defenders, then Hampden erupted when McGivern’s long ball was chested into the path of Eoin Doyle who ran 20 yards with the ball before unleashing a sensational shot into the bottom right hand corner of the net.

Hibs should have had a penalty with two minutes left when Dods clattered into Griffiths, but referee Brines waved away the appeal.

Extra time was delayed as the stadium announcer asked for replacement official for Brines who was replaced by 4th official John Beaton.

The first period of extra time finished all square, although Hibs were the more likely to score, and sure enough, with six minutes remaining Griffiths scored a wonder-goal. He took a corner on the left wing which was cleared by the former Hibs’ defender Darren Dods. The ball returned to Griffiths who took a sensational first touch before smashing the ball into the top corner of the net from 30 yards, causing mayhem in the Hibs end.

With two minutes left, Taylor was wrongly adjudged to be onside and found himself one on one with Williams, but the big keeper made a fantastic save to deny the striker and Hibs held on for a famous victory.

At the final whistle, the players, management and fans celebrated as Sunshine on Leith blared out of the Hampden PS system.

After the game a delighted Pat Fenlon said: “The first-half performance was very poor and I apologise to the supporters for that because it’s not good enough. We put everybody through the wringer today but have shown tremendous character. The players themselves had plenty to say at half-time, but it was a tremendous comeback.”

“It was a horrendous first half, but we showed tremendous character and played really well after that.  It wasn’t much of a team talk and more of a rant, but it worked. But, in fairness to the players, they knew they’d let themselves down and the fans. I felt like leaving myself at half-time. It was difficult to watch and difficult to take and I apologise to the supporters for that first half – and that’s down to me.”

“But what they have shown is that there’s massive, massive character within the group and they’ve shown that in spades – and that end of the game was different class.”

“Young Danny (Handling) and Alex (Harris) were different class for us and it was difficult for them to come on when we were chasing the game. Leigh Griffiths doesn’t miss too many penalties, but we just got back to passing the ball after that. Today wasn’t Leigh’s best game for us, but the finish for the goal, that’s him. He doesn’t let things like that bother him and he’s got a great attitude. I’m delighted for him too because he’s Hibs-daft and wanted to be in the final; we’re there now.

“We put everybody through the wringer today but have shown tremendous character. We’ve got five big league games to show that desire again too. We’ve had some tremendous games this year: Hearts in the first round and Aberdeen, Kilmarnock and now Falkirk; we’ll worry about the final and see what happens then.”

Eoin Doyle and Danny Handling spoke to the Edinburgh Reporter after the final whistle. Handling said: “I thought at half time we still had a chance and we proved it in the second half and after extra time. I didn’t expect to get on so quick but Liam called me over and I went on. At 3-0 I didn’t think there was a lot of pressure. I had a good chance on my left foot and thought I should have scored with that, but we got the result and that’s what matters.”

Doyle said: “My goal was a bit of a shank. I’m glad I didn’t hit it clean because when I hit the ball clean it normally goes into the keepers hands. I’m delighted to get a goal. At 3-0 down the manager had a few strong words and the players did as well, and he wanted to change things so he put me on and I managed to play a part. He came up with a plan and we deployed it in the second half and it worked. It was nice to get back on the score sheet, as I haven’t scored since Christmas. There’s a lot of games between now and the final and we are looking forward to next Monday night and we’ll see what happens.”

Hibs: Williams, Clancy, McGivern, McPake Hanlon, Claros, Cairney, Robertson, Harris, Thompson, Griffiths. Subs Murdoch, Doyle, Stevenson, Taiwo, Handling.

Falkirk:  McGovern, Duffie, Kingsley, Dods, Flynn, Murdoch, Sibbald, McGrandles, Taylor, Fulton, Alston. Subs Bowman, Grant, Higgins, Dick, Weatherston.

Attendance 22410

And of course the fans were in good voice….

Murder enquiry  – Leith Festival – Royal Mile Consultation – Preston Lodge RFC – Edinburgh Mod

Police have confirmed the death of a man whose body was found in the car park of Edinburgh Royal Infirmary last Sunday 7 April 2013 is being treated as a murder.

A number of officers, both in uniform and plain clothes, were returning to the hospital last night exactly a week on from the last known sighting of the 43-year-old.

The man, who is Polish, was last captured on CCTV getting off a number 33 bus with a group of four other men near the A&E department of the hospital at about 10pm on Friday 5 April.

Police revisited the area between 9 and 11pm last night in an effort to trace more witnesses who might have seen the group of men getting off the bus.

The man was found dead with significant injuries in the car park at the hospital, and inquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what happened to him.

Detective Chief Inspector David McLaren from the Specialist Crime Division Major Investigation Team said:- “We hope by returning to the hospital tonight we might catch people working shifts as they head to and from work who might be able to provide information about the group of men after they got off the bus.

“We have had a lot of support from the public so far, and we are grateful to everyone who has come forward with information already, but we would ask anyone who might not have spoken to police yet to get in touch on 101 as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Now would be a good time to get involved with Leith Festival. It takes place from 8-16 June 2013 and starts with a pageant on 8 June.  The organisers explain:-“This annual Pageant/Parade dating back to 1907, once again returns to Leith walk on Saturday June 8th. If you wish to take part in any way, shape or form, then all you have to do is email the Leith Festival office.”

 office@leithfestival.com

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A series of workshops discussing the future of one of Scotland’s most historic streets – the Royal Mile – are to be held over the next two weeks. But there will be an interactive, family-friendly Community Engagement Day held today Saturday 13 April, at the Canongate Venture. Drop in between 10am – 4pm.

The City of Edinburgh Council has organised the workshops as part of its consultation on the Royal Mile Action Plan, which contains proposals for improving the street, from how it is managed, to how the traffic flows and whether the street has the right retail mix.

These workshops will give local residents, businesses and community groups a chance to have their say on the Action Plan, and to shape the final content. Responsibility for delivering the plan will be shared between the Council and various local stakeholders.

The City’s Planning Convener, Councillor Ian Perry, said: “These workshops are a collaborative effort. Shaping the future of the Royal Mile means listening to the people who know it best – local residents, businesses and community groups – and having a constructive discussion about the best way forward.

“We need to strike the balance between ensuring that the Royal Mile remains one of the primary destinations for visitors coming to Scotland, while meeting the needs of the many residents and businesses who use it every day. If we get that right, we can ensure this ongoing project maintains the long-term future of the street.”

Workshops will be held on:

Wednesday 17 April 2013 – 6.30pm – 9pm, Trinity Apse. This workshop will focus on issues impacting on the High Street.

Tuesday 23 April 2013 – 6.30pm – 9pm, Riddle’s Court. This workshop will focus on issues impacting on Castlehill and The Lawnmarket.

Comments on the Action Plan can be sent via e-mail to: euan.mcmeeken@edinburgh.gov.uk
The consultation will run until 17th May. Further information about the Royal Mile Project can be found on the Council’s website.

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Preston Lodge RFC are opening their new clubhouse today, and are celebrating along with the nearby bowling club with a music and curry night tonight. Tonight’s event is already a sell out but you can go along and have a look this afternoon. They promise us photos…..

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Today the Edinburgh Provincial Mod is taking place at Liberton High. Are you going? Could you tell us about it afterwards? Use our Submit your Story feature to tell us who wins. Your own photos would be good too.

Two ships from the Canadian Navy sailed into the port of Leith yesterday afternoon, accompanied by two harbour tugs. First in was an Iroquois-class destroyer named HMCS Iroquois (DDG 280), followed shortly thereafter by a Halifax-class frigate called HMCS St. John’s (FFH 340).

Here are my photos.

Submitted by Justin MacArthur

A greenspace project in Edinburgh has received over £38,000 funding from the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Development Fund to deliver strategic environmental and access improvements in the area.

The CSGN is Europe’s largest greenspace initiative which seeks to transform Central Scotland into a place where the environment adds value to the economy and where people’s lives are enriched by its quality.

The Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust has been awarded £38,079 to deliver a programme of habitat improvements at priority locations along the city’s off-road cycle network. The project will be delivered using a combination of contractors and local volunteers.

Nine greenspace projects right across the central belt have received a share of almost £500,000 from this year’s Development Fund to enhance access to a high quality environment.

The nine new ventures will join 19 existing projects from a previous round of applications awarded funding in 2013 to 2015, taking the total fund value to £1,621,339.

Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Paul Wheelhouse, said:-“The Central Scotland Green Network is the biggest greenspace project of its kind in Europe. The long-term plan is to transform the central belt into a more vibrant place for people to live and work in, with better access to greenspace, and all the health benefits that come from that, and improved economic potential for business.

“Today’s funding announcement will help kickstart work on a number of new projects which will make a real difference to the lives of people across the central belt. Added to the projects announced this time last year, they will represent an ambitious programme of work to deliver our vision for a greener, healthier, more vibrant Central Scotland.”

Keith Geddes, Chair of the CSGN Partnership Board, said:- “This significant extension to our Development Fund will ensure we continue to make a vital contribution to projects working towards improving the central belt.

“The successful recipients will help us to deliver the CSGN on the ground, to improve the landscape of the area and make a real and lasting benefit to people, communities, businesses and the environment across Central Scotland.”

As one of the Scottish Government’s 14 ‘National Developments’ for Scotland in the second National Planning Framework, the CSGN will change the face of Central Scotland, by restoring, transforming and greening the landscape of an area stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west, to Fife and the Lothians in the east.

The CSGN encompasses 19 local authorities across 10,000 sq km and has the potential to benefit 3.5million people, equating to 70 per cent of Scotland’s population.

For further information about the CSGN Development Fund, please visit http://www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org

Submitted by Central Scotland Green Network

Creative Cookware in Rose Street is the only business in Scotland to launch a revolutionary new cooker which saves time, money and fuel while helping African families in need.

The Wonderbag is a non-electric heat retention cooker which allows food that has been brought to the boil in a pot to continue cooking for six to 12 hours after it has been removed from the heat source.

This insulated bag can be used to cook anything from stews and curries to simple rice and soups. You heat up your pot of food on the stove to kick-start the cooking process and then simply place it in the Wonderbag until it is ready.

Created in Africa, the Wonderbag is now being used in 600,000 African homes and has created 2000 jobs in the last five years. For every Wonderbag purchased one will be donated to an African family in need – saving 30% on fuel consumption each year – so Scottish consumers can be safe in the knowledge that their purchase is doing good elsewhere.

As well as saving time, money and fuel, the Wonderbag uses 50% less water in the cooking process, and even cheaper cuts of meat have time to tenderize and absorb flavours due to the prolonged cooking time.

Using a Wonderbag also means that Africa families no longer have to risk their safety and health while collecting and burning firewood.

Creative Cookware owner Lin Cherrington is delighted to be the only Scottish business to sell the Wonderbag.

Lin says: “The Wonderbag is such a brilliant idea as it benefits both the consumer and the African families each sale will help. I’ve used the Wonderbag myself and was very impressed as it allows you to make amazing one-pot meals with minimum fuss and maximum flavour. It’s a revolutionary new way of cooking which is making a positive impact on people’s lives and I hope sales will really take off.”

The Wonderbag will not be available in larger retail outlets for at least six months so until then Creative Cookware, on Edinburgh’s Rose Street, is the exclusive stockist in Scotland.

Priced at £70 the Wonderbag is available in a range of reversible hardwearing colours and there is also a camping range suitable for outdoor activities.

For further information on the Wonderbag please visit: http://www.nb-wonderbag.com

Submitted by Samantha Mckay-Challen

Hibs skipper James McPake insists that last May’s cup final defeat to Hearts will be the last thing on his mind when he lines up against Falkirk in this weekend’s William Hill Scottish Cup Semi Final. Speaking at the weekly press conference, the defender said:- “We can’t think about it. That’s in the past. We can’t think about that game or we will struggle. It was a hard one for everyone, there is no hiding from that. No-one is going to say it didn’t bother us. To lose any final is hard to take. That was my first final, I still don’t know if I’ll ever get to another. To have the chance again is good. It’s what you play football for, but we have to focus completely on Falkirk, and not look to the final.

“There is a bigger thing here than losing that final in May. That is the 111 years since we last won this Cup. I’ve never won a cup, maybe Kevin Thomson will have some trophies but I can’t think of too many others in the team who have medals. So there are a lot of different things going on, a lot more than just that final in May. Yeah, it was a bad day for everybody involved and the fans are probably still hurting.

“But we’d be as well quitting if that’s the only game we look back on. Am I going to look back on my career and say, ‘I was a footballer, but that day in May, that was my career?’ I’m not going to do that. What we’re looking at is changing the history of this football club. If we do that, yeah, it’ll take care of that day in May.

“The main aim is to change everything. Making up for last year is the small part of it. The bigger part is going on to win this Cup for the club, as it’s been so long. We’ve had a tough run – Hearts, Aberdeen and Kilmarnock in that order in the Cup. It’s not been easy. We’ve done well in the Cup so far but probably our hardest game is the one coming up. It’s the semi-final.

Despite the fact that Hibs have had to beat three SPL teams, Hearts, Aberdeen and Kilmarnock to reach this stage, McPake believes that Falkirk will provide their toughest test to date.

He continued: “There’s a lot of expectation on us but it’s a massive game for them as well. I expect Falkirk to be lively. They’re a decent team. There isn’t too much between the First Division and the Premier League in my eyes.

“Dundee have come back and although they’re going back down they beat us up there and got a point at Easter Road. That’s our gauge on what the First Division is like. Falkirk will want to impress the new manager and will be up for it. I don’t think what division you’re in counts for anything in a game like this.”

With the possibility of relegation long gone, most fans believe that defeat on Saturday would all but end the season, with five relatively meaningless games remaining, but McPake is adamant that failure to reach the top six has resulted in a new objective: He added: “We wanted to finish in the top six. We haven’t done it but we can’t dwell on the fact. Our aim now is to finish seventh and win that mini-league, then go on and try to win the cup.”

Photo www.jcmackintosh.co.uk

Kung Fu Academy definitely like to keep you on your toes.

Gyrating through more genres in one song than many bands manage in their career, the Edinburgh four-piece’s latest release begins with a guitar rift that wouldn’t sound out of place on a Caribbean beach.

And to throw a little more unpredictably on the fire they end it with some towering early 90s vocals.  Bobby Osborne’s voice seamlessly strides on top of Kung Fu Academy’s funk-powered rhythm section throughout, not allowing the song to dawdle but instilling it with a progressive drive.

Expansive without sounding overdone, ‘Super 8 Flashback‘s highpoint is undobtedly the honey-sweet harmonies spread over its chorus. Blending together like a fine cocktail, the call and response vocals of “You’re a ghost that could have been/Tragically you’ll always haunt me here/My flashback super 8/Every frame has a picture of you” comes steeped in emotional weight.

The final Edinburgh derby of the season will take place at Tynecastle on Sunday 12 May  2013 with a midday kick off, and will be shown live on ESPN,

The fixture lists for the remaining games in the top and bottom six were due to have been announced by the SPL on Monday, but this was delayed due to protracted discussions with Police Scotland and TV companies.

With only three points separating the teams, the game could decide who has bragging right over the summer, and it will also provide some much needed extra funds into the Hearts’ coffers, whilst giving Hibs the chance to end their dismal run of SPL derbies without a win, reaching back almost four years.

The remaining fixtures are as follows.

Hibernian

Hibernian v Aberdeen, Monday 22 April, kick off 7.30pm (live on ESPN)

Hibernian v St Mirren, Saturday 27 April, kick off 3pm

Kilmarnock v Hibernian, Sunday 5 May, kick off 3pm (live on Sky Sports)

Hearts v Hibernian Sunday 12 May, kick off midday (live on ESPN)

Hibernian v Dundee, Saturday 18 May, kick off 3pm

Hearts

Kilmarnock v Hearts Saturday 20 April, kick off 3pm

Dundee v Hearts Saturday 27 April, kick off 3pm

Hearts v St Mirren Saturday May 4 kick off 3pm

Hearts v Hibs Sunday May 12 kick off midday (Live on ESPN)

Aberdeen v Hearts Saturday 18 May kick off 3pm

Police in Edinburgh have issued CCTV images of a man they wish to trace in connection with their enquiries into a serious assault that happened in the Capital in the early hours of Sunday, March 31st 2013

The incident happened in Black Walk, in the vicinity of Holyrood Palace, around 4.30am.

The 27-year-old victim was attacked and taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment.

The individual featured in the CCTV images is described as white, 6ft tall, 20 to 25-years-old, with a slim build.  He was wearing a light coloured denim jacket with a white top underneath, black trousers (possibly with a chain attached), and black shoes.

Detective Sergeant Raymond Gray said: “We want to speak to the man featured in the CCTV images as part of our ongoing enquiries, and we would appeal to anyone who recognises him to contact police immediately.”

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

Royal Scottish Academy – Edinburgh College – Debating next week – Giant pandas waiting for the right moment – #Edinhour

The Royal Scottish Academy is opening a new exhibition from tomorrow, featuring the works of last year’s degree shows. The fifth annual RSA NEW CONTEMPORARIES exhibition will take place at the Royal Scottish Academy Galleries in Edinburgh from 13 April to 8 May 2013. Presenting work across a wide range of media, this carefully curated exhibition offers a unique opportunity to see the best of Scotland’s emerging talent under one roof.

Art graduates have been chosen by exhibition convenor Francis Convery RSA, with assistance from members of the Royal Scottish Academy and representatives from the five main colleges of art. This year the six schools of architecture in Scotland have put forward candidates to work with architecture convenor Neil Gillespie RSA (Elect). The graduates are given the opportunity to launch their career at the prestigious RSA galleries by exhibiting a substantial body of new work; including painting, sculpture, film making, photography, printmaking, architecture and installation.

“The artists we selected this year were all chosen because their degree shows were outstanding in their respective degree shows. From almost 400 graduating artists, we selected 55, who are joined by 5 graduating architects, nominated by their respective schools.
The selecting panel were choosing work that would represent the best of current practice and we responded mostly unanimously, where we could identify a combination of the visually compelling, the use of intelligent skills and materials, where there was a tangible contemporary relevance in the work (or its complete absence in some cases), where there was ambition, energy, courage, humour and subtext, all essential elements of the best contemporary art.
The selection was not about ‘the most hip’, the ‘latest thing’, the ‘most shocking’, it was not about fitting any specific theme or agenda , it was primarily what visually interested us, what skillfully held our attention, made us curious. In some cases the work seemed fully formed but others we thought showed greater potential given the extra time this show would provide. So we did take some risks when selecting those, alongside the more unanimously nominated presentations. However, in spite of our open agenda, a loose theme did emerge from the selection and a ‘unity of diversity’ would appear to accurately reflect the zeitgeist.”
Francis Convery RSA, Exhibition Convenor

Works will be for sale and the exhibition offers a wonderful opportunity to invest in Scotland’s up and coming talent. The RSA is part of the Own Art scheme, allowing buyers to spread the cost of an artwork over ten interest free monthly payments!

RSA NEW CONTEMPORARIES represents the RSA’s commitment to supporting and presenting the best contemporary work in Scotland. The RSA team works closely with the artists and architects towards developing a lasting relationship in the lead up to the exhibition and beyond. With over £11,000 worth of monetary prizes in addition to residency, studio and purchase prizes, the development of this exhibition is an important initiative for emerging artists in Scotland, enabling a ‘first exhibition’ opportunity for some 50+ emergent artists annually. The RSA are delighted to announce that Walter Scott will be Exhibition Patron and, for the fifth consecutive year, The Skinny will be our Media Partner.

“The RSA is to be commended for providing recent graduates with the opportunity to show their work in such a high-profile venue at the start of their careers.” Jim Birrell, Head of Painting & Printmaking, Glasgow School of Art.

The Edinburgh Reporter met Arthur Watson, the President of the Royal Scottish Academy the other week at the Edinburgh Award.

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We were delighted to hear about the Edinburgh College students who fundraised the money to pay for their trip to New York to go and dance on a stage in Central Park as part of Tartan Week. They look as though they had a good time! You can read more here.

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Next Saturday there is a big debate in Edinburgh.

English-Speaking Union Scotland is proud to be hosting debates featuring the best university debating teams in Wales, Scotland, England and Ireland who will battle it out to be crowned the 2012-13 John Smith Memorial Mace Champion. Founded in 1954, the John Smith Memorial Mace is one of the largest and most prestigious debating competitions in the world, featuring over 200 teams across four national championships.

The International Grand Final of the John Smith Memorial Mace will take place on Saturday 20 April at The Royal Society of Edinburgh. The event will start at 6:15pm – doors will open at 5:30pm.

The organisers say this is a fantastic opportunity to watch a high quality debate and take part in a  public floor debate on a controversial topic.

The draw for the debate is as follows:

1st Propostion: England-Kaplan Law School

1st Opposition: Wales-Aberystwyth University

2nd Proposition: Ireland-Trinity College Dublin Historical Society

2nd Opposition: Scotland-St. Andrews University

The motion for this year’s final will be “This House Would Make the Use of Unmanned Military Attack Vehicles a War Crime”. The debate will take place on Saturday 20 April 5.30-8.30pm at The Royal Society of Edinburgh (22-26 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ) Tickets are free and can be bought at http://jsmminternationalfinal-eorg.eventbrite.co.uk/#

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Edinburgh Zoo is keeping a close eye on the two giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang. There is a chance for the two to mate in about ten days time when everything should be just right. This is of course the whole point of the pandas being here, to try and produce a panda cub or two. Apparently twins are very common, although we are sure that the Zoo would be delighted to have just one. The Edinburgh Reporter went out to the Zoo to meet Iain Valentine who has overall charge of the pandas to find out more.

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The first #Edinhour took place on Wednesday, and the organisers say there were about 2000 tweets. The next is on 8 May 2013 and you are invited to join in. The instructions are here.

An hour like this is to set aside a time for people to get together and discuss one particular topic. In our case it is all things Edinburgh. There is also a Scotland Hour…..guess what they talk about….

Students Perform in NYC Tartan Week

Dance students were given a taste of international performance on a recent trip to New York for NYC Tartan Week.  Twenty students from Edinburgh College’s BA Honours and HND Dance courses travelled to New York this month where they performed live on stage in Central Park.

Tartan Week, which was set up to promote Scotland and Scottish events in New York, included a variety of events from Scottish fashion shows to the official Tartan Week Parade. During the six day trip, the Edinburgh College students also took the opportunity to hone their dance and performance skills at a number of dance master classes held at the Manhattan Movement and Arts Centre as well as the esteemed Steps on Broadway dance studios.

Cara Wong, 24 year old BA Honours Dance student from Edinburgh said: “I had a thoroughly enjoyable experience in New York and can’t wait to return. I have the utmost respect for Edinburgh College and the lecturers who have given me the support, foundation and so many opportunities to follow my dreams.

“My time in New York was a huge learning curve for me, I made an abundance of contacts and was inspired by the passion and enthusiasm of the dancers we met. It’s most definitely an experience that will live with me forever.”

Dance students from Edinburgh College spent three weeks preparing a unique four minute routine which fused urban dance with elements of traditional Scottish dancing and was performed in front of a welcoming New York crowd. For many of the students it was their first taste of performing on an international platform.

Central Park was the hub of all things Celtic, playing host to the annual 10k Scotland Run as well as featuring live music from Scottish alternative hip-hop group Stanley Odd and popular folk music band, Breabach.

Ethelinda Lashley-Johnstone, Dance Lecturer at Edinburgh College said: “The trip gave students the opportunity to gain vital practical experience within real parameters, working with an array of professionals in some of New York’s finest dance studios. It really was a once in a lifetime experience for the students involved and I believe it encouraged and motivated them to continue to strive towards performing internationally in the future.

“It also provided them with an opportunity to network and meet some of New York’s best dance teachers – who have already invited us back.”

The students had been fundraising since September for the much anticipated trip, organising car washes and bag packing at local supermarkets as well as hosting a successful Burns Supper Ceilidh.  Students across Edinburgh College benefit from study and performance opportunities unrivalled in the sector. Previous students have performed live at the O2 Arena and collaborated in a concert with Jon Lord at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh while recent students have attended master classes in music and sound production with the producer of Oasis, and the mixing engineer for U2.

Edinburgh College was formed as a result of merger between Edinburgh’s Telford College, Jewel & Esk College and Stevenson College Edinburgh. As a £65m business, it is one of the biggest FE colleges in Scotland and accommodates more than 35,000 student enrolments – the biggest student body in Edinburgh.

A new pitch was formally opened at Meadowbank Sports Centre yesterday, with the local MSP, Kenny MacAskill and Councillor Richard Lewis, Culture Convenor on hand for a bit of football practice with some young Leith Athletic players.

The pitch was paid for by £300,000 from the Scottish Government Cashback for Communities programme and the balance by The City of Edinburgh Council. Cashback for Communities uses monies recovered from proceeds of crime in local communities.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to open the new state of the art facilities here at Meadowbank. It’s fantastic to see first-hand how money seized from criminals has been invested in quality facilities the length and breadth of the country. These will undoubtedly boost the development of grass roots football and rugby in Scotland whilst also offering local communities opportunities to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles.

“CashBack is helping more people than ever before and since 2007, a massive £50 million has been invested. This cash has directly benefited over 600,000 young people and generated over 11,000 volunteers from different backgrounds who are now putting something back into their communities across Scotland.

“By using money taken from those who have caused misery through their illegal activities means we can invest in our young people and make communities safer for the future as well as hitting criminals where it hurts – their pockets.”

Leith Athletic FC successfully bid to become the venue’s ‘home club’, allowing them priority access to the pitch at pre-arranged times. The selection panel, comprising the SFA, the Council and Edinburgh Leisure, was impressed by the Club’s community focus and commitment to developing young players of both sexes.

Cllr Richard Lewis, Culture & Sport Convener, City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We have pledged to support and invest in the City’s sporting infrastructure and I am pleased that, through this partnership with the Scottish Government, we have been able to improve the quality and flexibility of the facilities on offer at Meadowbank.

“I would like to congratulate Leith Athletic on their successful bid, which I understand was very strong, and look forward to the benefits this arrangement will bring to the club and to the local community.”

Edinburgh Leisure will work with the SFA and Leith Athletic to deliver a Midnight League for local young people and, as before, will manage pitch bookings for other users during the remainder of the week. Thanks to its larger size, the new surface will also now be suitable for rugby training.

Edinburgh Leisure Chief Executive, John Comiskey, said: “This excellent new 3G facility will provide an improved experience for our customers on a consistent playing surface, helping to combat the unreliable Scottish weather which has affected so many games on grass pitches this year. The larger playing area will also allow more flexibility for pitch layouts and help us to encourage more people to be more active throughout the year.”

Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: “sportscotland is delighted to have worked in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council to further improve the facilities on offer at Meadowbank Sports Centre.

“The £300,000 of CashBack funding towards this project has helped deliver a high-spec, flexible pitch, which will not only provide a new home for Leith Athletic FC, but will undoubtedly be a real asset to the community as a whole.

“sportscotland is committed to investing in quality facilities as part of its drive towards developing a world-class sporting system at all levels and the addition of the 3G pitch at Meadowbank certainly supports that aim by widening the sporting opportunities throughout the area and helping to increase the number of children involved in sport and physical activity.”

Police concern over mother of newborn baby, Edinburgh

Police in Edinburgh are concerned for the wellbeing of the mother of a newborn baby found on a bench behind a block of flats known as Hailesland Park this afternoon, 11 April 2013.

The baby girl was discovered on the bench behind Kilncroft Stair about 12.55pm by a passer-by who immediately contacted police. There was no sign of the baby’s mother in the area, who medics advise will require urgent medical attention.

The baby has been taken to Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where she is being cared for by staff.

Chief Inspector Richard Thomas said:- “We are greatly concerned for the wellbeing of this baby girl’s mother, and are urging her to seek medical attention.

“We would ask anyone who might know who the mother is to encourage her to see a doctor urgently.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Scotland’s forgotten bloodiest battle is brought back to life

A university has joined forces with local dramas groups to commemorate Scotland’s near forgotten ‘Battle of Pinkie Cleugh’.

The battle between the Scots and English at Pinkie in Musselburgh, is thought to be one of the bloodiest ever to take place on Scottish soil. However, although local historians know that 10,000 Scots died, most people are completely unaware of this tragic historical event which took place in 1547.

The play, which is called the ‘Battle of Pinkie Cleugh’ unveils an important time in Scots history known as ‘The Rough Wooing of Mary, Queen of Scots’. It highlights a period of time when Henry VIII demanded the hand of the infant Queen Mary, for his son, Edward. However, the battle ensued as King Henry’s request was denied.

Community drama students from Queen Margaret University have joined forces with local interest groups to put on the play at the Brunton Theatre. Students on the Costume Design and Construction degree have created stunning period costumes for the drama and the QMU student playwright, Rory Edrington, has developed the script.

Three different community groups make up the cast – The Brunton Players, The Brunton Senior Youth Theatre and the Prestongrange Players.

Irvine Allan, Lecturer in Drama and Performance at Queen Margaret University, has worked with Lesley Smith, East Lothian Council’s Principal Arts Officer and local interest groups to produce the new play.  He said: “The River Esk ran red with the blood of both Scots and English solders, but yet most people know little or nothing about this fascinating event.

“This project has been a real eye-opener. Our playwright researched and wrote the play in association with the Pinkie Cleuch Battlefield Group advisers, so we have made great efforts to ensure historical accuracy.”

English war ships, as well as Spanish and Italian mercenaries, joined the English land forces to take Musselburgh, and seize East Lothian. The aim was to force the Scots into the marriage of the infant Queen Mary to Edward. The resistance led to a vicious battle with heavy casualties, mostly borne by the Scots, who were defeated on the day.

Irvine Allan continued: “The play is a stunning linguistic, visual and musical commemoration of the event. Our students are really proud to be involved in such an interesting collaborative project which will bring an important period of history to the attention of a wider public.”

Councillor Tim Day, Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, East Lothian Council, said: “This project has given our local community drama groups the opportunity to work with students from Queen Margaret University to bring a significant period of Scottish history to life through the medium of theatre. I am delighted that the play will be presented in Venue 1 at The Brunton and make use of the fantastic technical facilities that this refurbished venue has to offer.”

In September 2013, The Pinkie Cleugh Battlefield Group will launch, The Battlefield Trail, which visits the key sites of the battle. It is hoped that the area will develop as a visitor attraction.

The Battle of Pinkie Cleugh will take place in the Brunton Theatre’s newly developed Venue 1 (Musselburgh) on Thursday 18 April 2013, 7.30pm.

Tickets are priced at £6.75.

Box Office: T: 0131 665 2240.

Online booking at: http://www.bruntontheatre.co.uk/webpages/howtobook.php

Man arrested – John Byrne on a new commission – Lothian Buses – Fringe tickets – In Chambers Street tonight –  

A 57-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with an incident that happened at the cash machine outside the RBS branch at the West End of Princes Street on Monday 8 April 2013.  He will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.

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Artist John Byrne is to redesign the ceiling dome at the King’s Theatre. We are sure it will look beautiful when he has finished! More details here. 

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Lothian Buses have been shortlisted for the prestigious title of Green Business of the Year 2013 in the Scottish Business Awards.

Nominated for its work with hybrid buses, exhaust retro-fitting and encouraging modal shift, the company is pitted against seven other businesses for the title which will be announced in June.

Dr Steve Johnson, Environmental & CSR Manager said:-“We are delighted to have been shortlisted for this award. Our work to reduce air and noise pollution along with reducing our carbon footprint is something we believe passionately in and recognition through a national award such as this gives us confidence that our approach is seen to be on the right track.”

The company already holds the 2012 Best Green Large Company (Scottish Green Awards) and 2012 VIBES Transport awards for its work on environmental improvements. To date some 44 buses have been retro-fitted with SCRT exhaust systems and close to 50% of the fleet are at Euro V emissions standard or better. The company launches a further 10 new hybrid buses on Saturday 13 April at Castle Street (11am-3pm) to complement 15 hybrid buses already in service.

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More tickets for Edinburgh Festival Fringe go on sale today. Although the full programme is not going to be available until 30 May you can book some tickets for some shows online here.  And you can pre-order your Fringe programme here.

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Tonight at the National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street

Glenmorangie Annual Lecture: Professor Colin Renfrew

11 April 2013, 19:00 – 20:00

Cost: £6/£5 Concessions and Members, book online here

What can archaeologists learn from contemporary artists? Building on last year’s lecture by artist Andy Goldsworthy, the distinguished academic Professor Colin Renfrew reflects back from an archaeologist’s perspective, exploring the benefits of a dialogue with contemporary art, artists and practice.

And later in the week…

Evening Lecture: The Search for Life Beyond the Earth

16 April, 18:30 – 19:30

Cost: £6/£5 Concessions and Members

Is there life on Mars? Dr Christopher McKay, Planetary Scientist with the Space Science Division of the NASA Ames Research Centre, on the search for life in the universe, including the latest results from the NASA Curiosity Mars Rover.

Our photo today shows John Byrne when he was being interviewed by theatre critic Joyce McMillan recently at Summerhall

POLHA CHIEF EXECUTIVE NOMINATED FOR SCOTTISH BUSINESS AWARD

The Chief Executive of an Edinburgh-based housing association has been shortlisted for a prestigious Scottish Business Award.

Keith Anderson from Port of Leith Housing Association (PoLHA) has been nominated for the Social Entrepreneur of the Year award in recognition for his achievement in helping to address the capital’s lack of affordable homes.

He said:- “Naturally I’m delighted to have been shortlisted for such an honour. Everyone has the right to a home and as a social landlord there is the responsibility to ensure this happens, which is why we are committed to building good quality, affordable properties in north Edinburgh.”

Keith added: -“There is no denying that it is a challenging time for social housing providers. New models of funding are desperately required to meet growing demand; combatting homelessness is high on the agenda, not to mention managing the consequences of Westminster’s welfare reform agenda.

“If the solutions to these problems were easy we would be doing them right now, but we are determined to play a positive role identifying better solutions.”

PoLHA is currently building four new developments this year across north Edinburgh, which will be for social and mid-market rent.

The award ceremony will take place on 21 June 2013 at the EICC with former American President Bill Clinton as keynote speaker.

BYRNE TO LIGHT UP THE KING’S DOME

The Festival City Theatres Trust has commissioned renowned Scottish artist John Byrne to redesign the domed auditorium ceiling of the King’s Theatre as part of the building’s ongoing restoration and redecoration, creating a unique and beautiful new public artwork.

Byrne, equally celebrated for his paintings as he is for his theatrical works, has produced a vivid, colourful design which plays on duality, light and shade, the sun and the moon and features the opening lines from Jaques’ famous monologue in As You Like it ‘All the world’s a stage..’. Rich in theatrical motifs and references, the design – its commission made possible through funding from the Theatres Development Fund and private donations – will be painted onto the dome in July as part of the final stages of the redecoration of the King’s interior. It will be unveiled at the start of August, just in time for audiences to appreciate at performances in the Edinburgh International Festival.

Duncan Hendry, Chief Executive of the Festival City Theatres Trust commented:- ‘I am absolutely delighted that John Byrne has agreed to create a new fresco for the dome of the King’s. As well as having written many of the great plays that have graced the stage at the King’s, John is a superb visual artist and a regular attender at our theatre. I can think of no one more appropriate to provide a beautiful and thought-provoking design for the dome and I’m sure that audiences will enjoy his work for many years to come.”

John Byrne, explaining the genesis of the commission, said:- ‘When my partner Jeanine and I went to the King’s to see the splendid West End touring production of The Ladykillers, we glanced up at the dome and noticed that part of it had been replastered (this prior to the curtain going up on the play, I hasten to add) which made us wonder what was going to happen with it. You can imagine my surprise and delight when a few weeks later I was asked if I would like to accept the commission to provide a new design for the dome – I didn’t even have to think, I jumped at the chance!  Given that it’s a two-minute walk from where we live and we not only stroll past it on a daily basis but we are regular theatregoers there, all I can think to say is “God Save the King’s!’

Culture and Sport Convener, Councillor  Richard Lewis, said: ‘I’m delighted that a local artist, particularly one as talented and accomplished as John Byrne, has been commissioned to redesign the dome and I look forward to seeing the results once the work is complete.’

John Byrne is one of Scotland’s most celebrated artists. A painter, designer, writer and playwright, John’s written work has won numerous awards and his paintings are held in national and private collections.

The Festival City Theatres Trust is an independent theatre organisation which runs two of Edinburgh’s oldest and best-loved theatres – the Festival and King’s Theatres. The King’s Theatre was built by Edinburgh builder, William Stewart Cruikshank and opened in 1906, boasting beautiful art nouveau foyers before opening out onto a tremendously opulent baroque auditorium.

The King’s is now Edinburgh’s home of quality touring drama, bringing the UK’s best productions to Scotland.  Over the years the King’s has played host to some of the world’s biggest stars including Sir Laurence Olivier, Maria Callas, Noel Coward, Leslie Nielsen, Sir Patrick Stewart, Sir Ian McKellan, Penelope Keith, and Simon Callow.

The King’s remains a community theatre at heart, this beloved venue earning its place as ‘the people’s theatre’ by remaining committed to supporting Edinburgh’s long tradition of amateur theatre and operatic groups.  It is also home to the annual King’s Panto which welcomes almost 90,000 people a year.  The Festival and King’s Theatres have a strong learning and participation programme, with over 10,000 people of all ages each year taking part in performing arts activities.

The King’s underwent the first phase of a major restoration in 2012, its first since 1985, which included replacing the stalls and dress circle seats, improving disabled access, creating a new box office and carrying out repairs to the exterior and interior architecture. This new ceiling fresco is being completed as part of an improvement of the auditorium’s overall decorative scheme. The works are being overseen by Edinburgh architects Smith Scott Mullan Associates.

Friday marks the 90^th anniversary of the birth of the man who is considered by many to have made the greatest overall contribution to Hibernian Football Club.

In an unparallelled career, he was a winner of major trophies as both player manager, holds the distinction of being the first British player to score a goal in Europe, was part of what was arguably the greatest forward line ever seen  in Scottish Football, turned down an offer to join Manchester United and hold the record of being the oldest player ever to be awarded an international cap.

Born on 12 April 1923 in the village of Carronshore near Falkirk, Edward Hunter Turnbull was the youngest of five children. His father James was a miner, in the Carronshore pit whilst his mother Agnes stayed at home and brought up the children.

After leaving school at 15, ‘Ned’ got a job as an apprentice gas fitter at the Carron Iron works. He worked there until his eighteenth birthday, before resigning to join the Royal Navy, where he served on HMS Bulldog for the remainder of the Second World War. The ship was part of the Arctic Convoy where the constant danger from enemy submarines and harsh weather conditions left a mark on the young seaman.

After being de-mobbed, in 1946, Ned returned to Carronshore and was picked to play for local football club, Forth Rangers. By chance, the game was watched by the Hibernian manager, Willie McCartney, who saw enough to convince him that Eddie had the makings of a great player. One week later, he was invited to Easter Road where he gladly signed a contract worth £5.00 per week.

Ned quickly made the first team where his aggression, creativity, work rate and thunderous shot made him a favourite with the Hibs fans. Less than a year after joining the club, Ned played in the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden Park where Hibs lost narrowly to Aberdeen in front of 82,140 fans. In 1948, he was selected to play for Scotland against Belgium, the first of eight appearances.

Little did he know it, but this was the start of the most successful period in the clubs history and Ned more than played his part. Over the next four years, Hibs won the Scottish League on three occasions, and the forward line which contained Ned, his best pal Willie Ormond, Lawrie Reilly, Bobby Johnstone and Gordon Smith became known as ‘The Famous Five.’

During that spell, Matt Busby, the manager of Manchester United made an undisclosed bid for Ned, and although the club would have considered selling him, Ned made it known that his heart lay at Easter Road and he declined the offer. Had he gone, there is a good chance that he would have been on the Manchester United plane which crashed in Munich, in 1958, leaving 23 dead.

In 1955, Hibs were invited to take part in the inaugural European Cup, and were drawn to play the German Champions, Rot Weiss Essen in the first round. The first leg was held in Germany on 14th September, and after 35 minutes, Ned opened the scoring with a trademark thunderbolt, becoming the first British player to score in a European tournament. Hibs eventually won 4-0, and progressed to the semi-final where they lost to Reims of In 1958, Ned played three times for Scotland in the World Cup Finals held in Sweden, drawing with Yugoslavia, and losing to France and Paraguay. He retired the following year and after a brief spell coaching Hibs, Ned accepted the manager’s job at Queens Park. His skills quickly brought him to the attention of the Aberdeen board, and in 1965 he was appointed the manager at Pittodrie.

His six year tenure there saw him build an attractive well organised team who won the Scottish Cup in 1970, beating Celtic 3-1 in the final.

The lure of Easter Road however was too great, and a year after winning the cup, Edinburgh builder Tom Hart, who had recently bought Hibs, made him an offer he could not refuse. Ned remained at Easter Road for a glorious nine years and built a team, which won, the League Cup in 1972 and achieved legendary status by trouncing near neighbours Hearts 7-0 at Tynecastle. His teams also won two Drybrough Cups beating Celtic on both occasions, and were runners up twice in the Scottish Cup Finals, in 1972 against Celtic and in 1979 against Rangers after two replays. They also lost the 1974 League Cup Final against Celtic despite striker Joe Harper scoring a hat-trick in the final.

In Europe his Hibs teams beat Sporting Lisbon and Liverpool, and took Leeds United to a penalty shootout after two draws.

In retrospect, Ned admitted privately that he broke up his legendry Tornadoes side too early, however he did bring in some decent players as replacements such as Des Bremner, Jackie MacNamara, Ralph Callaghan and George Stewart.

He retired in 1980 after a fall out with Tom Hart over the decision to sign George Best, and opened ‘ETs’ Bar in Easter Road.

The story did not finish there because in 2006, he became the one of the oldest player to be awarded a Scottish cap. When Ned played, caps were only awarded for games against England Wales and Northern Ireland, so despite representing his country in the World Cup, he never received one. When this became public knowledge, a newspaper campaign ended with the SFA accepting the injustice and awarding caps retrospectively. Ned received his aged 82.

The great man passed away on 30 April 2011,  and his memorial was an all-ticket affair at the Mansfield Traquair attended by the great and good of Scottish Football. Fittingly the funeral cortege stopped outside the new East Stand at Easter Road where hundreds of fans burst into spontaneous applause as his coffin came into view.

Coincidentally, Manchester United celebrated the 90^th anniversary of the birth of the man who tried to sign Ned; Sir Matt Busby; by winning the European Champion’s League on the day in question. Hibs are playing their most important match of the season on the day after his birthday, which hopefully will be a good omen.

Hibs will take around 16,000 fans to Hampden in a repeat of the 1974 League Cup Semi-Final where Eddie led his team to a narrow 1-0 win thanks to a late Joe Harper goal. A similar score line would not go amiss in Leith.

Finally, anyone who thought Ned’s impressive medal haul was complete following his death are wrong, as ironically; his service on the Arctic Convoys would have entitled him to a posthumous medal today.

60 Glorious Years of The Royal Yacht Britannia 1953-2013

The Royal Yacht Britannia, The Queen’s former floating palace, celebrates her 60^th Anniversary this month. Echoing the glamour of the era, Britannia is inviting visitors to come dressed in vintage 50s fashion on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 April, launching a week of celebrations to mark the anniversary of this iconic ship. And there will be prizes of Britannia pink fizz for the best dressed visitors.

The week of celebrations will begin with a vintage 50s theme this weekend 13-14 April 2013, with live music from the American Song Book, performed on the same piano, played by both Princess Diana and Princess Margaret. 50s and 60s Rolls Royce and Bentleys will line the quayside. The Royal Deck Tea Room will be serving classics from the period, including A Manhattan cocktail. A giant replica Britannia cake will be on display and complimentary cake and tots of rum will be served all week.

On the day itself, Tuesday 16 April 2013 at 2.15pm, exactly the same time Britannia was launched at John Brown Shipyard in Clydebank in 1953, a ceremony will take place with Britannia’s longest serving Royal Yachtsmen ‘Yottie’, Ellis ‘Norrie’ Norrell MVO RVM, who served aboard Britannia on her first official tour. Norrie will return, to a fanfare of bugles, and raise a new flag, specially commissioned in honour of all those who served aboard Britannia.

Britannia sailed the oceans for nearly 44 years, travelling over a million nautical miles, calling at over 600 ports in 135 countries and generating excitement and admiration throughout the world.

To The Queen and the Royal Family, Britannia proved to be the perfect Royal residence for glittering state occasions, official receptions, honeymoons and the annual two week family holiday to the Western Isles of Scotland and The Queen famously describedBritannia as “the one place I can truly relax”.

Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh took a leading role in the design of Britannia, personally approving plans and selecting furniture, fabrics and paintings. Each room was filled with their photographs, treasured heirlooms, and much-loved possessions and gifts from across the globe.

No matter where Britannia was in the world, however exotic or remote, stepping back on board was always a homecoming for The Queen. Berthed in Edinburgh, and now rated as Scotland’s best visitor attraction, visitors to Britannia are invited to step back in time, follow in the footsteps of Royalty, and celebrate 60 years of this much loved and most majestic of ships.

Visitors can discover the heart and soul of Britannia with a tour of five decks.  The experience begins in the Visitor Centre where you learn about Britannia’s fascinating story. Then step aboard with your complimentary self-led audio handset, which gives a unique insight into what life was like on board for the Royal Family and crew.  Highlights include the magnificent State Apartments, the Honeymoon Suite, the cramped Crew’s Quarters and the gleaming Engine Room. Visitors can also treat themselves to lunch, or tea and cake in the stunning Royal Deck Tea Room.

Chief Executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia, Bob Downie, is very proud that Britannia is celebrating her 60^th anniversary and commented:-“For such a renowned British icon to be celebrating her 60^th anniversary is a momentous event, a glowing testament to the craftsmen who built Britannia, all who served aboard and those who now look after the former Royal Yacht.”

All photos © Tony Marsh

Two New Managerial Appointments at Edinburgh’s Biggest Bus Company

Lothian Buses announces the appointment of two new members to the Company’s Senior Leadership Team.

In May, Walter Herring will take on the new role of Head of Operational Risk.  He will be joining the Company from Arriva with an extensive experience in the bus industry of insurance, loss adjustment, operational risk and health and safety.

Sarah Boyd joins the company in June from Stagecoach as Head of Operations – Bus, reporting to Operations Director, Bill Campbell. Sarah has a wealth of bus industry senior management experience gained from all around the UK.

Ian Craig, Managing Director Lothian Buses said:-  “We are delighted to welcome Walter and Sarah to the Company.  Each bring significant skills and experience which complement our existing Senior Leadership Team.”