WIN TRAVEL’S BIGGEST, BADDEST BUCKET LIST WITH MYDESTINATION.COM/EDINBURGH 

Edinburgh globetrotters are being given the opportunity to win the prize of a lifetime.  Launched in Edinburgh last week, travel’s Biggest, Baddest, Bucket List competition offers one lucky winner a six month, all inclusive blogging trip around the world, taking in a minimum 25 international destinations and $50,000 (USD) prize money upon return to the UK.

The winner of the trip, which begins on 8 June 2013, can choose their own itinerary for the six months and will be expected to blog for website MyDestination.com.

Paul McGlinchey, Managing Director of MyDestination.com/Edinburgh said:-“This is an amazing trip for anyone who has the travel bug.  It is the chance to see all of those places you’ve always wanted to see  – with all expenses paid.  Scots are renowned travellers and I believe that people from Edinburgh can inject a real sense of passion for new places, so I hope many will enter our competition.

“Plus, there’s the life changing $50,000 USD to look forward to when the winner comes home.”

Throughout the trip, the winner will have the opportunity to meet new friends, see the sights and take part in various challenges.  The challenges will be everything from trying out local delicacies to adrenaline pumping activities.

To win this trip of a lifetime, applicants must create a video application in English and up to three minutes in length talking about Edinburgh.  Ten candidates from My Destination sites around the world will make it through to the voting list, five chosen by My Destination and five selected by public votes.

Ben Southall, winner of Tourism Queensland’s ‘Best Job In The World’ competition in 2009, will be judging the entries.

Ben commented:

“Winning ‘Best Job In The World’ was truly a life changing experience for me and I can’t wait to help pick out a winner for the Biggest, Baddest, Bucket List and help give someone else an opportunity that could very well be life changing for them. I haven’t looked back since winning in 2009 and I’m delighted to see an amazing travel blogging opportunity that really looks to get under the skin of so many destinations around the world.”

MyDestination.com/Edinburgh is part of My Destination, the global travel resource powered by a community of local experts. The competition is in partnership with a series of international associates including Hotels.com, Travelex and Viator, and closes on 31 March 2013 with the winner being announced on 7 May 2013.

‘Fluffy Bobbles to invade Edinburgh Age Scotland shops this week

On Friday 8 February 2013 Age Scotland’s charity shops in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge area and on Nicolson Street will be invaded by colourful Fluffy Bobbles looking for new homes.  To mark national Bobble Day, shoppers can adopt and wear a Bobble, for a suggested donation of £1, to support Age Scotland’s work to make Scotland a better place for older people.

Stockbridge Shop Manager Amanda Lawrie said: “Wearing a Bobble is a great way to brighten up an outfit, and show your support for older people in Scotland.  And when you collect yours, you can also browse some great offers we’ve got in the shop.”

Charity fundraiser Joyce Sperber said: “The Age Scotland Helpline answers around 230 enquiries a week from older people, their friends, families and carers.  Our Community Development Team is supporting 58 older people’s clubs and groups in the Edinburgh area.  And we’re campaigning with and for older people on the issues that matter to them; from health to transport.  All this is only possible with the support and generosity of the public, so please wear your Bobble with pride on 8^th February and help us to continue our work.”

Help to create a new look for the MS Therapy Centre

The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Therapy Centre in Leith is undergoing a makeover this week on  8-10 February 2013 and is looking for around 20 volunteers who can spare a few hours to help with decorating.

The refurbishment is the first in more than a decade and has been made possible thanks to the generosity of local tradesmen. Johnstone’s Paints, Edinburgh and Ideal Carpets, Musselburgh are among the local businesses that have donated materials and given their time free of charge.

Nancy Campbell, Operations Manager, MS Therapy Centre said:

“The place needs brightened up.  We haven’t been able to afford to for the past ten years, as the centre costs so much to run, but thanks to the support of local tradesmen, we are about to see a transformation.

“We are, however, looking for people who are handy with a paintbrush and don’t mind helping out for a few hours.  There is a lot of painting to be done, but  I am sure it will be worth the effort and that our clients are going to love the new look.

“We are trying to create a more welcoming and therapeutic environment.  “

One of the services offered at the MS Therapy Centre is hyperbaric oxygen therapy.  This takes place in a large decompression chamber, similar to the ones divers use.  This is also part of the make-over plans as Nancy explained:

“We’ve commissioned a local artist to paint the outside of the chamber and create a ‘bubbles’ effect.  Our clients talk about ‘going for a dive’ when they head into the chamber, so we have used this idea and I think it will make everybody smile when they see it.”

Once the internal makeover is complete, the centre is hoping to start on the outside of the building and is looking for a local artist to help in creating a graffiti-style mural for the steel shutters.

Volunteers who can help with the repainting are asked to contact the MS Therapy Centre on 0131 554 5384.

The University of Edinburgh has launched a new audio series called The Big Idea.

Bringing together Edinburgh’s brightest minds to discuss topical and though-provoking issues, the podcast’s launch show offers experts the chance to discuss next year’s referendum on Scottish independence.

During the show, academics will seek to answer questions about whether the wording of a referendum question can change people’s minds, what the main events of 2013 will be in shaping the independence debate, and whether Scotland will be better off as part of the United Kingdom or as an independent nation.

The Big Idea Podcast is available to download now for free from iTunes and iTunes U:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/itunes-u/the-big-idea/id598311327?mt=10

http://podcast.is.ed.ac.uk:8080/Podcasts/candm/2013-02-01/The_Big_Idea-audio.mp3 

Taking part in this month’s panel are Dr Nicola McEwen, director of public policy at the Academy of Government, Dr Simon Clark, head of the School of Economics, Professor Stephen Tierney, director of the Edinburgh Centre for Constitutional Law, and Professor Ewen Cameron, the Sir William Fraser chair of Scottish History.

SCOTLAND’S MOST POLLUTED STREETS REVEALED

Friends of the Earth Scotland say that their new analysis report shows that air pollution targets are still being missed across Scotland, despite targets which were supposed to have been met eight years ago, and includes three Edinburgh streets on the list.

Dr Richard Dixon, Director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said:-

“Air pollution is the biggest environmental threat to people’s health, with fumes from cars, lorries and buses, killing off at least 10 times the number who die in road crashes every year.

“Some of these targets were set in the late nineties and supposed to be met in 2005, yet we still have air pollution at dangerous levels on streets across Scotland.  Both the Scottish Government and our local authorities have failed to take this issue seriously for years and between them they need to do more than make promises they don’t deliver.  We need action on traffic levels and the types of vehicles allowed on our most polluted streets.”

Number of sites failing nitrogen dioxide standards in 2012 – 15, in 2011 – 13

Top 15 most polluted streets for nitrogen dioxide in 2012 (figures in microgrammes per cubic meter, European standard 40)

Glasgow Kerbside – 72.5
South Lanarkshire Raith Interchange – 62.9
Aberdeen Wellington Road – 58.8
Edinburgh St John’s Road – 57.9
Dundee Lochee Road – 55.4
Perth Atholl Street – 55.1
Aberdeen Union Street Roadside – 55.0
Edinburgh Queensferry Road – 54.5
Dundee Meadowside – 54.5
Paisley Central Road – 50.7
Dundee Seagate – 50.4
West Lothian Broxburn – 47.4
Aberdeen Market Street 2 – 46.8
East Dunbartonshire Bearsden – 43.6
Dundee Whitehall Street – 43.0

These are the annual mean levels at these sites in 2012.  The EU and UK standard is 40 micrograms per cubic meter, so all these sites fail the standard.  We were supposed to meet this standard in 2005.  In Glasgow at least we are unlikely to meet it even in 2020.

Number of sites failing particulate matter standards in 2012 – 10, in 2011 – 18

Top ten most polluted streets for particulate matter (PM10) in 2012 (figures in microgrammes per cubic meter, Scottish objective 18)

Aberdeen Wellington Road – 27.6
Edinburgh Salamander St – 26.7
South Lanarkshire Raith Interchange – 25.5
Aberdeen Union Street Roadside – 25.0
Perth Atholl Street – 24.9
Glasgow Kerbside – 23.6
Falkirk West Bridge Street – 22.1
Aberdeen King Street – 22.0
Glasgow Dumbarton Road – 21.0
Aberdeen Market Street 2 – 20.7

These are the annual mean levels at these sites in 2012.  The Scottish air quality objective is 18 micrograms per cubic meter, so all these sites fail the objective.  We were supposed to meet this objective in 2010 according to Friends of the Earth Scotland.

Data analysed by FoEScotland from this site http://www.scottishairquality.co.uk/index.php

The report produced on air quality in December 2012 is here http://www.scottishairquality.co.uk/documents/reports2/462130114_Scottish_Air_Quality_Database_Annual_Report_2011_V3.pdf

Detoxing Breaks: Where to Go in 2013 

If you’ve made it through the party month of December, even after January has ended the chances are you’re badly in need of a detox. What better way to recharge the batteries after the hectic festive season, and start the year off  than with a relaxing and revitalising trip abroad? Best all of with the great range of cheap all inclusive holidays available, a detox break can be an easy and inexpensive way to recharge the batteries for 2013.

The holiday experts at Direct Holidays have put together three inspirational break ideas that are the perfect way to start the year off.

Goa

Cheap holidays to Goa are plentiful at this time of year and while it may not be the height of summer, there is guaranteed to be plenty of sunshine. The west India coastal region is known for its pristine sandy beaches and beautiful clear waters. It also attracts yoga enthusiasts, so you can stretch to your heart’s content and make your body a temple in January.

Also being one of the country’s most affluent regions, travellers can expect plenty of luxury hotels – all at fantastic value. But what really differentiates Goa from other beach destinations this winter is the varied cultural highlights available. Explore hundreds or years of history at the many temples and shrines to gods.

If it’s a detox you’re after – there’s nowhere like Goa.

Egypt

Whether it’s the historic wonders or the sandy beaches that attract you to Egypt, it’s an ideal place for a detox. An Egypt holiday will often start in the hustle and bustle of Cairo. Spend a few days in the museums and galleries before heading out to the breathtaking pyramids of Giza. Here your detox can really start with a cruise down the Nile to the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings.

Walk off that excess Christmas weight as you weave through some of the most important ancient historic sites in the world. If relaxing is more your thing then head straight to Sharm el Sheikh where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for poolside relaxation. When it comes to relaxation, Egypt is hard to beat.

Mexico

Mexico isn’t all about colourful street life and festivals, there are also some beautiful and serene beaches as well as a wealth of fantastic local architecture. If you’re hoping to get back in touch with nature during your trip then a stop in Cancun with its white sandy beaches, great restaurants and clear seas is a must. In this beautiful part of the world you can also realise a lifelong dream and seize the opportunity to swim with bottlenose dolphins.

To work off those Christmas indulgences take a stroll or a jog along the soft sands before feasting on locally grown avocados and other fresh produce.

Two Leith based premises have been shortlisted to represent Edinburgh in Best Bar None national awards

Edinburgh licensed premises Victoria and The Leith Beer Company have both been shortlisted for the national finals of the Best Bar None awards to be held at The Sheraton Hotel, Edinburgh on 3 March.  The prestigious event will be hosted by radio star and comedian Fred MacAulay.

Anna Christopherson from Victoria commented:- “I am so happy to be through to the national finals for the first time.  It means a great deal for the team at Victoria to be recognised for the hard work we do, to keep trouble from our pub and create a safe environment for our customers.  I am really looking forward to the event next month.”

Ashley Kellock, Scottish Co-ordinator for Best Bar None, commented: “Being shortlisted for the national awards is a real accolade for these premises and they will be judged with other successful bars and clubs from across Scotland.  It has been heartening to see how many licensees and their teams really care about customer service and safety.”

The Best Bar None scheme is aimed at promoting responsible management and operation of licensed premises in Scotland.  It rewards safe and well-managed licensed venues with the issue of a certificate, plaque and the chance to go forward to the national awards ceremony.

Best Bar None is sponsored by Diageo, Molson Coors and Heineken and is supported by The Scottish Government and the Scottish Business Crime Centre.

EDINBURGH LIBRARIES WELCOME BACK BOOK LOVERS WITH FINES REPRIEVE

As part of National Libraries Day celebrations on Saturday 9^th February 2013, Edinburgh City Libraries are holding a week-long fines amnesty to encourage people with outstanding fines to come back to their local library.

Anyone who comes into one of the city’s public libraries between 9-15 February to return overdue books, CDs or DVDs will have their library fines written off – allowing them to borrow books again.

The capital’s libraries will also be holding a drive over this period to encourage people living or working in Edinburgh to sign up and join the library.

A host of free events and activities aimed at children will also be taking place in libraries across the city to mark National Libraries Day – including author and storyteller Viv French at Craigmillar Library and children’s writer Lari Don at both McDonald Road and Leith libraries.

Councillor Richard Lewis, the city’s Culture and Sport Convener, said: “National Libraries Day is the key date in the calendar for our public libraries service and next week we want everyone to rediscover the joy of visiting their local library. We’re hoping to welcome back as many people as possible to Edinburgh’s libraries and hope that everyone takes this opportunity to start afresh with us.”

National Libraries Day is an annual event in the UK dedicated to the celebration of libraries and librarians. Celebrations are held in schools, colleges, universities, workplaces and public libraries across the UK.

Dead by Dawn, Scotland’s International Horror Film Festival, returns for its 20th Anniversary this year (25 – 28 April) at The Filmhouse

All-inclusive Passes priced £75  

This year’s festival is the 20th Anniversary and to celebrate in the run-up, there will be a screening of a season of some of the favourite movies from past festivals.  The Dead by Dawn Prelude season will show:

KILLING WORDS – Sunday 10 February only

Spain / 2003 / 89 mins / Laura Mañá  / starring Darío Grandinetti, Goya

Toledo, Fernando Guillén

Psychological thrillers abound, but few are as genuinely tense, atmospheric and unsettling as this. Goya Toledo is Laura, a psychiatrist, who regains consciousness bound to a chair, an unwilling viewer to Ramon (Dario Grandinetti in sublime form) explaining what trail of crimes has led him to this point in his life, where he goes from here, and how she will figure in it. The stage is set for a charged and utterly engrossing encounter between two players, neither of whom is used to losing even the most innocent of games, let alone one where the stakes are so high.

BUBBA HO-TEP – Sunday 24 February only

USA / 2002 / Don Coscarelli / starring Bruce Campbell, Ossie Davis, Ella

Joyce, Heidi Marnhout, Bob Ivy

Elvis and JFK, languishing in an East Texas rest home, sally forth to battle an evil Egyptian entity who has chosen their long-term care facility as his happy hunting grounds. Don Coscarelli handles the bizarre material (based on a short story by Joe R Lansdale) with precision and care, treating the characters, and old age for that matter, with such respect that no matter how absurd things become, you are with them all the way. An engaging, laugh-out-loud funny, bittersweet story of redemption, courage and friendship.

DEAD BIRDS – Sunday 10 March only

USA / 2004 / Alex Turner / starring Henry Thomas, Patrick Fugit, Nicki

Aycox, Michael Shannon, Muse Watson

It’s 1863, and William (Henry Thomas), an ex-Confederate soldier, has come into some gold via the bloody robbery of a bank. He and his gang hightail it to an abandoned plantation out in the middle of nowhere, the ultimate goal being to reach Mexico where they plan to live the good life. Or at least a richer life. There’s a feeling of dread that immediately seizes the film once the bank robbers reach the plantation, and this feeling continues throughout.  Dead Birds comes highly recommended, especially for those seeking a horror film that can actually scare!

END OF THE LINE – Sunday 24 March only

Canada / 2007 / Maurice Devereaux / starring Ilona Elkin, Nicolas

Wright, Neil Napier, Emily Shelton, Tim Rozon

Karen, a psychiatric nurse, struggles through the final hours of a hellish shift. It’s a full moon, the weirdos are out in force, and she’s just found out that an unstable patient discharged against her recommendations threw herself under a subway train. Karen’s journey home starts in an almost deserted underground station where she finds herself receiving too much attention from a seriously sinister guy. Rescued by another passenger, her night gets worse when her train stops suddenly in a tunnel. Darkly funny and genuinely creepy, this movie is a thrilling ride!

THE DARK HOURS – Sunday 7 April only

Canada / 2005 / Paul Fox / starring Kate Greenhouse, Bruce McFee, Jeff

Seymour, David Calderisi, Trevor Hayes

On a weekend at their cabin, psychiatrist Dr Samantha Goodman, her husband and her sister get a surprise visit from one of Sam’s ex patients. Having had enough of having his head shrunk by the good doctor, Harlan’s purpose runs deeper than just a simple desire for revenge… While it’s possible to watch The Dark Hours strictly as a tense as hell thriller, there’s a lot more going on here than meets the eye. It manages to include explorations of infidelity, accountability, gender politics and modern psychiatry. Add in some beautiful moody cinematography, disconcerting sound design, a great supporting cast and an ambiguous and thought provoking finale, and you’ve got a rarity – a smart, harrowing film relying (mostly) on nuance and intelligence to make you squirm

Buying three or more tickets at the same time gives a 15% discount otherwise individual tickets are sold at regular Filmhouse prices.

Tickets can be bought from Filmhouse in person or by phone on 0131 228 2688 or through the website at www.filmhousecinema.com

Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, owned by Ian Macleod Distillers, presented a boost to the funds of military charity Help for Heroes.

Glengoyne raised £15,000 in partnership with 1879 Events – organisers of events in support of military charities – through two key events in 2012: the Auld Enemy Dinner, an annual event stage on the eve of the Calcutta Cup and the Auld Enemy Golf Day, a Scotland v England tournament which took place at Fairmont St Andrews.

Alan Wardrop, UK Sales Manager of Ian Macleod Distillers, presented a cheque to Major (Retd) Tim Grantham on behalf of Help for Heroes, at the Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh, home to The Royal Scots Borderers (1 Scots), 1^st Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland. Captain Bob Stuart MBE – 1 SCOTS, Lieutenant Commander Billy Adams MBE – Royal Navy and Squadron Leader James Lafferty – RAF Leuchars was also be in attendance.

Pic by Rob MCDougall

www.RobMcDougall.com

07856 222 103
info@robmcdougall.com

Copyright Rob McDougall 2013

Caption shot 1:

Glengoyne joins forces with Help for Heroes for a boost for much needed funds totalling ￡15,000 presented at the Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh (Wednesday 30 January 2013).

From left to right Major (Rtd) Tim Grantham H4H, Alan Wardrop, UK Sales Manager for Ian Macleod Distillers and Captain Bob Stuart, MBE 1 SCOTS

Caption shot 2:

Glengoyne joins forces with Help for Heroes for a boost for much needed funds totalling ￡15,000 presented at the Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh (Wednesday 30 January 2013). The presentation was made at the Memorial site chosen in honour of the late Captain Walter Barrie, a member of 1 SCOTS who was killed in Afghanistan on Remembrance Sunday last year, 2012.

From left to right Private Vunisarati, 1 SCOTS; Private Allison; 1 SCOTS; Squadron Leader James Lafferty ? RAF Leuchars; Major (Rtd) Tim Grantham H4H; Private Wilson, 1 SCOTS; Alan Wardrop, UK Sales Manager for Ian Macleod Distillers, Lieutenant Commander Billy Adams MBE ? Royal Navy; Captain Bob Stuart MBE, 1 SCOTS and Derek McCulloch WO2, 1 SCOTS

Caption shot 3
Glengoyne joins forces with Help for Heroes for a boost for much needed funds totalling ￡15,000 presented at the Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh (Wednesday 30 January 2013).

From left to right Alan Wardrop, UK Sales Manager for Ian Macleod Distillers, Captain Bob Stuart, MBE 1 SCOTS and Major (Rtd) Tim Grantham H4H

HEALTH MINISTER HELPS SET SAIL TO DAME ELLEN’S DREAM

Dame Ellen MacArthur Celebrates Trust’s 10^th Birthday With Scottish Hub

It’s ships ahoy for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, as founder Dame Ellen MacArthur meets Health Minister, Alex Neil MSP, to discuss plans for a Scottish hub.

Celebrating its tenth birthday this year, the Cancer Trust is looking to expand its services and make their dream of a Scottish sailing hub a reality, all thanks to the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery. In a meeting with Alex Neil today, Dame Ellen was keen to discuss how important the Trust will be for the Scottish youngsters living with or recovering from cancer or leukaemia.

Dame Ellen said: “Being here in Scotland to discuss plans with Health Minister, Alex Neil, for our Scottish hub is very exciting. We have already worked with over 29 Scottish young people so we know that what the Trust does is an integral part of their recovery. Having our services on their doorstep will make such a difference, allowing us to reach even more young people across the country.

“We’ve already seen what an impact our work on the Isle of Wight has had, so we know our hub in Largs will be just as life-changing. Yet, none of this would be possible without fundraising and support like that provided by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Without this funding we simply wouldn’t have had the means to make our dream a reality and, as you can imagine, we are delighted to get it all started.”

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has received funding of £40,000 from People’s Postcode Trust, a small-grant giving charity funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The funding will allow the charity to charter sailing boats from Largs on the West Coast of Scotland. Giving young cancer sufferers the chance to build their confidence, have fun and enjoy sailing.

Minister Alex Neil was keen to learn more about the Trust and its work across the country. The Cancer Trust is an integral part of the Scottish community, having already worked with Teenage Cancer Trust and CLIC Sargent, who provide a lifeline for the young people and encourage many of them to access the experiences provided by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

Echoing the support previous Health Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, had shown for the project, Minister Alex Neil said: “I am delighted to learn that the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust will be bringing their dream of a Scottish hub to life this year. It’s inspiring to see a charity work hard to make a young person’s experience of cancer or leukaemia as positive as possible. Simply being involved with the Cancer Trust gives these youngsters the confidence to be young people again, to be around each other and find the strength to get their lives back on track.”

Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £22.6 million to date, £6 million of which has been awarded by People’s Postcode Trust to organisations and charities, like the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, that are making a big difference to grass root projects.

The Scottish Parliament is advertising a Project Manager’s job on their website which is open for applications until 11 February 2013.

The advert reads:-

Project Manager (Ref: P7353)

“The Scottish Parliament’s Business Information Technology (BIT) Office is responsible for developing and maintaining the IT solutions and underlying infrastructure which support and enable the business of the Parliament and its Members.

As part of the BIT Programme Management Office you will manage the successful delivery of a variety of IT projects and programmes. You will ensure that formal methodologies are applied and that relevant communication with key stakeholders occurs. You will also contribute to the development of BIT plans, policies and processes.

You will need:

• extensive project management experience, including the successful delivery of a variety of medium scale projects, an in-depth understanding of project methodologies and good change control and risk management capability
• an understanding of the fundamentals of programme and portfolio management
• a relevant degree or professional qualification would be desirable
• the ability to develop policies and processes based on business requirements and technical considerations
• experience in finance and budget management, , along with procurement processes and delivering value for money solutions
• excellent problem solving and decision making abilities, including multi—tasking on high priority activities simultaneously and a willingness to take ownership of issues and deal with difficult situations
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to lead project teams, negotiate with and influence stakeholders, and convey both technical and business concepts

Salary range is £30,814 to £37,466.  Benefits include 40.5 days’ leave (including public holidays) and the opportunity to join the Civil Service pension arrangements.

To apply, read the full information about the job send your CV and a covering letter demonstrating the qualities described above to jobs@scottish.parliament.uk by 5pm on Monday 11 February.

The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and treatment and to eliminating unfair discrimination in its employment practices. We are committed to building a diverse and representative workforce and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people and members of the black and minority ethnic communities.”

Edinburgh Napier Knights v Edinburgh University Predators, Varsity Match 3 February 2013

Report and Photos By John Preece

Someone once famously said that a football match was ‘a game of two halves..’ Well the American version – which relies on very little ‘foot’ball – could be said to be a game of four halves. Or, more accurately – a game of two halves split into two halves. Or four quarters…

For the uninitiated, that’s only the start. The rules are many and complex, but, essentially, the point of the game is to move the ball up the field of play in a succession of, at least, ten yard (yes, ‘yard’) chunks. For this, the team is allowed four chances – or downs. The two teams line up facing each other in attack and defence formations as a scrimmage, and the ball is passed back to the quarter-back, the ‘main man’ in any AF team, who will throw, or pass, the ball forward to one of the ‘receivers – only one forward pass is allowed per down – or hand the ball to a running back, who, as his title suggests, will attempt to run the ball upfield.

If they succeed in gaining ten yards, they get another four downs, the object being to score a touch-down over the opposition’s goal-line. Except that, unlike rugby, the ball doesn’t have to touch the ground, but only to break the ‘plane’ of the goal line. So why ‘touch-down? Who knows? Once this achieved, and six points scored, a ‘conversion’ is attempted – always from the centre of the field, not from where the line was crossed – for one point.
If – it’s a game of ‘ifs’ –  the team in possession fails to gain the ten yards after three downs then the ball is usually kicked. As a set-piece field goal if thought to be within the kicker’s range, for three points, or somewhere toward the opposition as a ‘punt’, from hand, if they are too far away. Still with it? There are, indeed, many, many rules, which, to the casual observer, are just too complicated to follow, so you just have to trust the 4-6 officials! And just how does a game which is scheduled for four 15 minute quarters, take up to three hours to play? And how did it go?

Boroughmuir RFC’s Meggetland was the host for this encounter and a full programme of events was planned. From come-and-try sessions to a brass band and cheerleaders, it was all there to keep the crowd entertained before, during and after the match.

With only two match weekends to go, and the two Edinburgh teams in 4^th and 5^th places in the five team BUCS–Scottish league, the game was only really for bragging rights – and a very nice trophy.

The match started badly for Napier. Playing into a stiff Northerly wind, it was difficult to move the ball upfield and a couple of minutes in, they were forced into their own goal area in possession of the ball for a ‘safety’ and two points for Edinburgh. Forced to kick from their next period of possession, they were under the cosh straight away as Edinburgh battled their way deep into Napier’s half and ran in the first touchdown of the match from close in. Six points and, with the kick going over, the extra point gave Edinburgh a 9-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. By the end of the half they had stretched this out to 17-0 with another touchdown and another safety.

And that was the story of the match. Edinburgh dominated possession and territory and, using their running backs more effectively in the blustery conditions, ran in another two touchdowns, one of which was converted, and forced another safety to finish the match 30-0 winners. Napier rallied a bit in the final quarter, puting together some nicely constructed plays, but were foiled by a solid defence and, it has to be said, far too many mistakes. From the first quarter there only looked like being one winner as Edinburgh seemed the more competent, but Napier are a new, young team and, given time, should improve hand over fist in the coming seasons.

Report and Photos – John Preece

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

Tenant evicted – 20mph limits – Skyscanner opening US office – Borgen fever – Community Council meeting

A 44-year-old man has been evicted from his Council flat in the south west of Edinburgh after continued breaches of an anti-social behaviour order.

The Edinburgh Reporter’s weekly sports roundup features the Scotland Rugby team’s defeat in the Calcutta Cup at Twickenham and also the women’s heavy loss to England at Esher. Hearts lost a late goal to deny them victory over Ross County in Dingwall, while Hibs marched through to the quarter final of the William Hill Scottish Cup with a 1-0 win over Aberdeen.

There was better news for the Capital teams in the Kings Cup with Spartans, Leith Athletic, Craigroyston and Heriot Watt all progressing to the next round.

Congratulations go to Edinburgh Basketball teams, winning three trophies, and good luck wishes go to Granton snooker player Craig MacGillivray who will be representing Scotland in Russia, and congratulations go to Edinburgh’s badminton star Jilly Copper who won the women’s doubles along with Kirsty Gilmour at the Yonex Scottish National Championships in Perth.

The Edinburgh Monarch’s fixture dates have been released, and the Edinburgh Reporter joins fans in paying sympathy to the friends and family of former star Arty Fisher who passed away last week aged 83.

We also follow the fortunes of the Edinburgh Capitals who started the weekend with a defeat to Fife Flyers but redeemed themselves with a victory over Braehead Clan last night.

International Rugby

Scotland’s dismal record at Twickenham continued on Saturday, although the final score-line of 38-18 flattered England in the first game of the Six Nations campaign.

Sean Maitland’s 10th-minute try gave the Scots a brief lead, however  try on debut from Billy Twelvetrees and tries from Chris Ashton, Geoff Parling and Danny Care, in addition to 18 points from the boot of man of the match Owen Farrell,  meant that the Calcutta Cup remained south of the border.

A late rally after a superb break finished by Stuart Hogg narrowed the margin to 13 points and with six minutes remaining Scotland had a line-out within five meters of the England line.Had they taken advantage of this, it could have been a different result, but in truth England deserved the victory.

Scotland Women got their Six Nations defence off to a disappointing start in Esher, losing 76-0 to high flying England who notched up 12 tries.

Sarah Hunter, Ceri Large, Sally Tuson and Abigail Chamberlain all scored two apiece, for England while Hannah Gallagher, Amber Reed, Kay Wilson and Rochelle Clark also went over the try line.

The victory means England have now won 37 of the last 38 Six Nations games.

Club Rugby

Heriots travelled to Tayside but lost 30-25 to Dundee High School Former Players in a free-flowing game at Riverside Park. Tries by Fraser Brown, CJ Osazuma and Russell ensured a losing bonus point for the Edinburgh team.

Football

The transfer window finally slammed shut on Friday, with Hearts bringing in Scotland international Danny Wilson and Michael Ngoo from Premiership side Liverpool, replacing Ryan McGowan and Peter Enckleman, whilst Hibs retained loan trio Leigh Griffiths, Ryan McGivern and Jorge Claros as well as signing Scott Robertson on a two and a half year deal from Blackpool and Matt Done on loan from Barnsley.

Hearts travelled to Dingwall to play Ross County in a re-arranged game following the contravertial postponement of the fixture last month. County took the lead through Rocco Quinn before new cult hero Ngoo equalised before half time. Jamie Walker gave John McGlynn’s men the lead with a six yard header however they were denied the three points by a late Iain Vigurs goal in injury time.

A stunning 30 yard strike from Gary Deegan gave Hibs a 1-0 win over Aberdeen in the William Hill Scottish Cup at Easter Road on Sunday, although Pat Fenlon’s men have keeper Ben Williams to thank after the former Manchester United star saved a late penalty to secure a quarter final tie against Kilmarnock at rugby Park.

In the Kings Cup, two goals apiece from John Ferguson, Keith McLeod and Donal Henretty, his hundredth for the club, plus strikes from John Grant, Sean Wringe gave Spartans a comfortable 8-0 win over Hawick at Ainslie Park. Malt and Hops man of the match went to Kevin Motion for a fine performance controlling midfield.

Elsewhere Craigroyston beat Vale of Leven 2-1 away from home, whilst Tynecastle travelled to Condstream and won 5-2.

Leith Athletic beat Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale 3-0 whilst Heriot Watt ran out comfortable winners against Peebles, beating the Border outfit 7-1 at Riccarton.

Basketball

Congratulations go to the City of Edinburgh Kings who beat the University of Glasgow 81-62 in the Senior Men’s Scottish Cup final. The Kings had to come from 21-17 behind at the end of the first quarter, but fought back strongly in the second to lead 42-30 at half time. Another strong quarter saw them going into the final stage 61-41 ahead and eventually ran out comfortable winners.

More congratulations go to City of Edinburgh Kool Kats who beat Tayside Muskateers 77-62 in the Senior Woman Scottish Cup Final, and  well done to Boroughmuir Blaze who won the Junior Men’s Scottish Cup, beating Tayside Muskateers 63-51. MVP was Blaze’s Malcolm Winning.

Commiserations however go to the City of Edinburgh Kool Kats who went down 46-72 to a strong St Mirren reid Kerr College in the final of the Under 18 Scottish Cup Final. The Saints dominated the match and led 33-19 at the half time break.

Ice Hockey

The Capitals weekend got off to a dismal start losing 7-1 to arch rivals Fife Flyers in Kirkcaldy on Saturday night, before beating Braehead Clan 5-2 on Sunday.

Speedway

The Premier League fixtures have been released with  Monarchs starting with a two-leg challenge against Berwick Bandits, at home on Friday 29 March then at Berwick the following night in the Cock of the North trophy. On Sunday, the Monarchs take on rivals Glasgow Tigers in the Spring Trophy.

After meeting their two local rivals, the Monarchs then compete in a shortened League Cup qualifying section, with the British Championship semi-final on the 19th April.

There’s also an early start to the KO Cup as Monatchs  initially race Leicester away from home on Saturday 27^th April.

Champions Scunthorpe are Monarchs  first Premier League opposition in Friday 3^rd May at Armadale.

The David Harrison Ford Scottish Open is on 2nd August and captain Derek Sneddon has his well deserved Testimonial on 13th September.

Meanwhile the Monarchs  broke the sad news that Arty Fisher, former junior rider, has passed away aged 83.

Arty rode in the second halves of the 1950s at Old Meadowbank, and continued to have a spin during the practise sessions of the 1960s, although he was more influential in those days as a mechanic and friend of many riders, both Monarchs and opposition.

Snooker

Granton snooker player Craig MacGillivray will represent Scotland alongside representatives from 15 other European nations against top Russian players in the 2013 World Pyramid (Russian Billiards) Championship held at Kemerovo Russia. The tournament last four days and begins on Wednesday.

In total 64 players will be competing for a share of the $50k prize fund with $10k going to the winner.

Pyramids is played on a full sized table. There are 16 balls but 15 racked in a pyramid are white and numbered. The object of the game is to pocket eight balls although the pockets are only marginally wider that the diameter of the balls requiring greater precision. Craig is delighted to have been selected although he anticipates that the Russian players will dominate and his aim is to win at least one match.

Badminton

Congratulations to Edinburgh’s Jilly Cooper who won the Woman’s Doubles along with Kirsty Gilmour in the 2013 Yonex Scottish National Championship at Bell’s sports Centre in Perth.

LARGE HADRON COLLIDER EXHIBITION  from Saturday 2 February 2013 – Friday 8 February 2013

The Scottish Parliament, Free Exhibition

A travelling exhibition showcasing the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the world’s largest science experiment will be on public display in the Main Hall of the Scottish Parliament.

Visitors can walk through a life size model of part of the LHC tunnel and learn more about science from the interactive exhibits. The exhibition will help create a sense of what it’s like to be a particle physicist working on the largest science experiment of our generation.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet some of the UK’s top LHC researchers and physics students who are working at the LHC and who will be available to answer questions and help to inspire the next generation of scientists.

For more information about the exhibition go to www.stfc.ac.uk

Opening Hours
10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm) on Monday, Friday, and Saturday
9am to 6.30pm (last entry 6pm) Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Closed Sunday

Middle Eastern Film Festival looks at Palestine through the lenses of Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers  

This year’s Middle Eastern Film Festival, a partnership between the Middle East Festival and the Filmhouse, with support from Creative Scotland, kicks off from the 7th to 21st February 2013 at the Filmhouse, Edinburgh, looking at Palestine through the lenses of Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers, celebrating contemporary Iranian cinema, and providing a platform for festival favourites Nabil Ayouch, Merzak Allouache and Ibrahim El-Batout.

Palestinian cinema provides a visual articulation of Palestinian existence post-1948 and a way of resisting imposed identities. Taken together, this selection of films goes beyond the surface of stereotypes and presents a detailed and insightful look at the complexities, contradictions and human cost of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Opening with Michel Khliefi’s film about marriage rituals and clashing cultures, Wedding in Galilee, and closing with Susan Youseff’s film about forbidden love, Habibi, the festival presents a multi-faceted look at Palestine and the dreams of a nation, the line-up reminding us of the potency of cinema from the region and reading like a veritable who’s who of world cinema, with films by Michel Khliefi, Rashid Masharawi, Elia Sulieman, Jayce Salloum, Hany Abu-Assad, Annemarie Jacir, Avi Mograbi, Erik Riklis and Yoav Shamir and featuring stars such as Mohamed Bakri and Hiam Abbass.

Iranian cinema, despite reports of its demise, remains one of the most enduring of national cinemas and this year we profile six remarkable films from Seyyed Riza Mir-Karimi’s delightful and visually sumptuous comedy A Cube of Sugar to Mani Haghighi’s anarchic Modest Reception.

There will also be a selection of some of the best of contemporary Middle Eastern cinema from other Middle Eastern countries.

Anita Clark, Portfolio Manager – Festivals, Touring and Dance, Creative Scotland commented:

‘The Middle Eastern Film Festival gives Scottish audiences the opportunity to experience the perspective of Middle Eastern film makers and artists in this time of incredible change and current conflux in that area. Creative Scotland is proud to have invested in this inspiring and diverse festival.’

The purpose of the Middle Eastern Film Festival is to provide a focus for the study and promotion of Middle Eastern cinema. The geographic area covered by the Festival broadly covers that outlined in Oliver Leahman’s ‘Companion Encyclopedia of Middle Eastern and North African Film,’ which includes Central Asia, North Africa, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Iraq. Following on from the retrospective on Iranian cinema in 2009, Egyptian cinema in 2010, Turkish cinema in 2011, and Kurdish cinema in 2012, this year’s retrospective will be on Palestine through the lenses of Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers.

The 2013 Middle Eastern Film Festival is part of the Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace. From Thursday 7 February – Sunday 17 March 2013 the 10th Annual Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace, MESP 2013, will bring together people from a wide range of spiritual backgrounds, people working with peace, conflict, reconciliation and justice, educators, teachers, scholars and students, people from artistic and cultural backgrounds, people working with health, wellbeing and healing experiences and concerns, people from diverse cultures, traditions and communities, and people from across Scotland and internationally.

Middle East Festival Website: www.mesp.org.uk

Green councillors in Edinburgh welcomed the City Council decision to continue to back a community bid to re-open Leith Waterworld.

Councillors were presented with a report from officers rejecting the bid from Splashback to re-open the leisure pool. However, after what the Greens regarded as a compelling presentation from representatives of Splashback, the Capital Coalition parties agreed to provide additional funding for the community bid with a view to the pool re-opening. The Green councillors were able then to withdraw their own amendment and back the Coalition.

Green Councillor for Leith, Chas Booth said:

“I am delighted that the Council has seen the wisdom of backing community ownership of this much-loved asset and has seen the social, health and economic benefits of re-opening the pool. We now have a period of almost a year to finalise the business case and get children and other pool users back in the water.”

HELP DECIDE EDINBURGH’S FIVE YEAR TRANSPORT STRATEGY

A six-week public consultation starts tomorrow, 4 February 2013, as part of the development of a new transport strategy for Edinburgh.

For the past five years, the Council’s transport projects, network maintenance and service provision have been guided by the Local Transport Strategy (LTS) 2007-2012, now extended to the end of 2013.

Work has already begun to draw up a new five year policy document, an LTS for 2014 – 2019.  This document will go through a number of stages before being finalised at the end of 2013.

The public consultation being launched on Monday seeks residents’ views on 10 key transport  Issues for Review, including a proposal to introduce parking charges on Sunday and options to reduce speed limits in residential streets to 20mph.

The Issues for Review report is the first stage in the preparation of the LTS. Its purpose is to seek views on the issues where change is needed, or the Council faces a significant choice in future direction.

Many of the policies and objectives in the current LTS are still valid and these will simply be continued or updated for the next LTS. There will be a chance to give feedback on those in a further consultation process later in 2013.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener, urged as many people as possible to take part in the consultation.

She said: “Whether you’re a public transport user, a motorist, a cyclist or a pedestrian – or perhaps you might even be all of these things, depending on the journey – we want to hear what residents and businesses in Edinburgh think about the transport issues in this consultation.

“It’s vital for us to gather as many different points of view as we can so that we can be sure that the final Local Transport Strategy 2014-2019 document accurately reflects the City’s priorities for the next five years.”

Anyone can respond to this consultation using the questionnaire available online at:https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BPRZ5QK

Printed questionnaires are also available from libraries, or on request from: localtransportstrategy@edinburgh.gov.uk

Completed printed questionnaires can be returned to the Freepost address:

FREEPOST – RTCH – JJEK – TCCZ
Local Transport Strategy
City of Edinburgh Council
Waverley Court (C.2)
4 East Market Street
Edinburgh
EH8 8BG

The consultation closes on Sunday 17 March 2013.

A public drop-in session will also be held on this consultation:

Venue: the foyer of the Edinburgh Central Library, George IV Bridge, EH1 1EG

Date: Thursday 6 March 2013

Time: From 9am to 8pm

East Lothian Council’s Archaeology Officers have confirmed that the skull found on Musselburgh’s Old Links Golf Course is a young Iron Age woman.

The skull was discovered ten days ago when council groundkeepers dug up the remains at a bunker on the 4th.

Lothian and Borders Police investigations were stopped after forensic tests proved that the skull was dated at around 2000 years old.

“It was a very populated area during that period,” said an East Lothian Council spokesman, “ and, periodically, bones from similar periods are unearthed in that area.”

It was suggested by the size of the skull and the teeth to be that of a female in her early 20s.

Athough archaeologists are keen on an exploration of the surrounding site, no major excavation is planned.

“A limited dig will be carried out to see if there are other bones relating to the skull in close proximity,” the spokeman explained.

“ Whether it be the result of farming or other activity, chances are these bones will have been disturbed considerably over the past 2,000 years.”

For the past month, Hibs boss Pat Fenlon has been linked with dozens of potential new signings, including names that the Irishman has never even heard of. Whilst continually refusing to react to speculation, he has always insisted that his objective for the transfer window was to retain the three loan stars, Leigh Griffiths, Ryan McGivern and Jorge Claros for the remainder of the season. That was achieved after considerable negotiations between the clubs involved, and in an added bonus, a further two midfielders have arrived, Scott Robertson on a two and a half year deal from Blackpool and at the last minute Matt Done from Barnsley on a six month loan. In addition, St Johnstone’s Liam Craig has signed a pre-contract and will join the club in the summer.

Fenlon told Hibernian TV:- “At the start of the window, our main objective was to extend the loan deals of Jorge, Leigh and Ryan, which we’ve managed to do, so it has been very productive.

“Full credit to everybody involved in making those loan deals happen and we’re also pleased to be able to add a player of Scott Robertson’s quality to the squad.

“Finally we were pleased to be able to add another loan signing on the final day, Matt Done, who will offer us another wide option in midfield.

“We’re now looking to press on and generate some momentum in the second half of the season; starting with Sunday’s massive Cup tie against Aberdeen.”

Now the winter transfer window has officially closed, Hibernian FC have confirmed the following player movements during the month of January:

Players in (alphabetical order)

Jorge Claros (loan extension until the end of the season)

Matt Done (loan from Barnsley FC until the end of the season)

Leigh Griffiths (loan extension until the end of the season)

Ryan McGivern (loan extension until the end of the season)

Scott Robertson (transfer from Blackpool FC)

Players out (alphabetical order)

Calum Antell – extended loan at East Fife until the end of the season

Danny Galbraith – contract terminated by mutual consent

Harry Monaghan – extended loan to Annan Athletic until the end of the season

Euan Smith – loan to Arbroath until the end of the season

Scott Smith – loan to Dumbarton until the end of the season

Ivan Sproule – permanent move to Ross County

Sammy Stanton – extended loan at Cowdenbeath until the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Fenlon has confirmed that full-back Tim Clancy is a doubt for Sunday, whilst Ryan McGivern should be available for selection. Matt Done has arrived in Edinburgh and will train with the squad on Saturday and his fitness will be assessed before a decision is made as to his inclusion.

Live! Roller Derby! Auld Reekie Roller Girls’ Home Season starts on Saturday 16^th February 2013, 2-5pm when Skatefast Club will take on the Cherry Bombers at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh. More details on tickets on the ARRG  website 2nd Home Season Bout: Cherry Bombers vs Skatefast Club

Then on Saturday 9^th March 2013, 2-5pm the Leithal Weapons play Skatefast Club at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh All details of this match here on the ARRG site 3rd Home Season Bout: Skatefast Club vs Leithal Weapons

The following month on Saturday 6^th April 2013, 2-5pm there will be a HOME TEAM FINAL at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh and again more details here Home Season Final! – Doubleheader

Tickets: £5 plus booking fee online, £7 on the door.

Available from: Eventbrite

Free for children aged 14 and under!

ARRG have this to say:-

“The next bout takes place on Saturday 16th February 2013 when the Cherry Bombers take on the Skatefast Club. Will they be able to recover from a shaky start and fight their way to a win? The Skatefast Club fought hard in last year’s home season, ending up in the final against the Leithal Weapons – they’ll definitely want to repeat that performance, and a win against the Cherry Bombers would send them on their way. Come and watch the second bout of the Home Season, and see for yourself the sport that everyone’s talking about.

Our clued-up commentators will keep you in the loop about what’s happening on track, so don’t worry if you’re a derby novice. You’ll also have the chance to buy our t-shirts, badges and stickers to show your support for Edinburgh’s one and only roller derby league and its three home teams. Does your heart belong to the Leithals, the Bombers or Skatefast? You’ll know after attending a bout. There’ll be stalls galore in our ‘vendors’ village’ – be sure not to miss the famous cakes, lovingly made by the Auld Reekie Roller Girls community. Whether you’re a derby virgin or a roller veteran, don’t miss the chance to see Edinburgh’s top skaters take each other on. You won’t have seen anything like this!”

What is modern roller derby?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IK68gscUgek]

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

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

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

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

EDINBURGH’S RISING STARS: VOTES TO BE CAST FOR SCOTTISH YOUTH PARLIAMENT

Voting for the new intake of  members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) starts in Edinburgh tomorrow, Friday 1 March 2013.

Sixteen young people will battle it out for the 12 Edinburgh seats – two for each of the Scottish Parliamentary areas.

Organisers hope turnout will be high after a record 10,000 ballots were cast at the last election in 2011.

Young people can register their vote at schools, colleges, universities and community centres until 13 March.

Over the last parliament, SYP members have debated issues ranging from same-sex marriage to the living wage.

Education Convenor Councillor Paul Godzik said: “The record turn-out in 2011 shows that are young people in Edinburgh are switched on, and keen to shape the matters that affect their day to day lives.

“It’s great to see so many candidates putting themselves forward, and I wish them all the best of luck.”

Leith Waterworld – Edinburgh Outdoors -Forestry Commission here to stay – Terence Stamp – Edinburgh Fringe

Yesterday at the council meeting the council decided to throw the campaign group Splashback a lifeline. They now have eleven months to make a go of running Leith Waterworld as a community enterprise.

This feasibility phase will establish whether the facility can be operated within the parameters of a finalised business plan.

The continuation of the bid beyond this phase is dependent on the community group securing the necessary capital funding to invest in the facility and, further, on their business plan meeting with the approval of an independent third party.

The council will release a maximum of £100,000 to help fund the feasibility study and a dedicated Councillor/ Officer Working-Group will be set up to support Splashback in developing their bid.

A report on the results of the study will be considered by councillors once the development phase ends, following which a decision on the facility’s future will be taken.

Councillor Richard Lewis, Culture and Leisure Convener, said: “I want to acknowledge the considerable time and effort that Splashback have committed to their bid thus far.

“While there remains a tremendous amount of work to be done in the months ahead, we want to give the community the best possible chance of success by providing the necessary funding and support toward taking their proposals to the next phase.

“We owe it to the people of Edinburgh to do everything we can to preserve this valuable community asset.”

***

Today the council staff are out and about in the parks tweeting to let you know what is happening out there. This is all part of the launch of the new website and app called Edinburgh Outdoors.

Staff from across the Council will be tweeting and uploading photos to the website with comments about what they are doing while they go about their normal work in the city’s parks and greenspaces. Follow @EdinOutdoors for the latest.

Using the hashtag #edinparks, people can join the conversation on Twitter and get out and about in parks to add what they are doing both on Friday and over the weekend.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PLFlGkRTX0?list=UUpyjaNvEF_ryiKTJ6QxCkIA]

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The UK Government has published details of its forestry and woodland policy in response to the report from the Independent Panel on Forestry.

A new, independent public body will hold in trust the nation’s publicly-owned forests for future generations. Alongside the continuing work of the Forestry Commission, this new body will own, maintain and safeguard our forests on behalf of the public.

Last July the Government confirmed that the Public Forest Estate in England will remain in public ownership after the Liberal Democrats’ campaign. This followed on from a similar successful campaign in Scotland in 2008/9.

Up to 100 jobs at the Forestry Commission’s Edinburgh offices were threatened by the plans to privatise the Public Forest Estate.

Commenting, Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, whose constituency is home to the Forestry Commission’s HQ at Corstorphine said:

“Today’s statement reaffirms the Government’s commitment to keep the forest estate in public ownership for future generations to enjoy.

“The Minister has acknowledged the potential that our forests have to create jobs and growth and I welcome the news that the forestry industry is working on an action plan to ensure that potential is unlocked.

“The Government has increased the Forestry Commission’s budget by £3.5m next year specifically to make up for lost income from sales of woodland. A further £2m has been allocated in recognition of the importance of implementing the commitments made by the Minister today as well as to address the pressures arising from the Chalara dieback of ash outbreak.

“£0.5 million of additional Forestry Commission funding and up to £4 million additional funding from research councils is also available for specialists to carry out in-depth research into tree diseases.

“Whilst the future shape of the Forestry Commission is still to be considered by Defra following the recommendations of the Independent Panel on Forestry’s report I am confident that the Government’s commitment to our forests and the extra funding in place will secure the future of the Forestry Commission’s Corstorphine base.

“There is a huge amount of talent, expertise and experience within the Forestry Commission’s Edinburgh team and I will continue to push Ministers to ensure that these skilled individuals are central to the future of the Commission ensuring the security of Edinburgh based roles now and for the future.”

***

Next Thursday is a date for your diary. Terence Stamp, will be doing a Q & A at the Cameo after a showing of the new film Song for Marion.  Stamp was chosen by Empire magazine as number 59 in the top 100 sexiest stars of film history. Book here!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtQ6cAaMzKs]

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The Edinburgh Fringe programme is not launched until the end of May, but there are tickets on sale already. And you might design the next Fringe Poster… This from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival website..

The search is on for the next Fringe Poster

If you’re an art teacher or know any talented young artists in Scotland, the Fringe needs you! Find all the details of our Schools Poster Competition and download an entry pack and free learning resources here.

A total of over 6000 possible names for the new bridge over the River Forth have been suggested by the public.

Last November members of the public were asked for their opinions on what the new crossing should be called. We have had many suggestions from our readers in response to our earlier article.

The name-gathering process ended yesterday, and a group of business and community delegates will then narrow down the names to a shortlist to be put once more to the public.

The winning name for the bridge will then be announced during the summer.

The £1.6 billion project is said to ‘be on time and on budget,’ according to Transport Scotland. You can read the suggested names here on the Transport Scotland website.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BWE_fWh8bw]

Mercurytide gifts £10k charity website to mark 10th anniversary

A Scottish software development company has donated and built a website worth £10k as the prize in a charity competition celebrating its tenth anniversary.

Mercurytide ran the competition when staff decided that, instead of a birthday party, they wanted to truly embrace corporate social responsibility by giving something back to their local community. It was agreed that £1,000 would be donated to a charity for every year Mercurytide had been in business, resulting in the £10k website prize.

Revive MS Support, which provides support to people with Multiple Sclerosis, was chosen as the prize winner from 400 nominations for 150 charities. The judging process was rigorous and carried out by an impartial and prestigious judging panel including Liz Cameron from the Scottish Chamber of Commerce, Fiona Ballantyne from the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, and TV personality and nutritionist Amanda Hamilton.

The team from Mercurytide, which has offices in Edinburgh and Paisley, has worked closely with Revive to build the new website which launched last week at The Lighthouse in Glasgow.

Both teams have developed a strong partnership which has seen unexpected gains such as team building opportunities, employee engagement and shared learning. Mercurytide staff also completed a zip wire challenge over the River Clyde in aid of Revive, conquering some personal fears in the process.

Mercurytide’s Suzanna Harkness worked on the project and says:- “This is a great example of how even a small organisation such as ours can reach out and create a huge impact. It’s not just about our corporate social responsibility; it’s about making small but significant strides towards improving the lives of those around us, as well as our own.”

Tamlin Roberts, Mercurytide’s MD, says: “Working with Revive has been an eye-opening experience on many fronts. We have seen the impact MS has on people and the ways in which they are fighting back against the symptoms, as well as the passion which both teams have put into the project. Our team feels a great sense of worth and has developed a much better understandingof charities’ needs as a whole. It has been a great project to be part of.”

Revive had previously resorted to using social media for the majority of its messaging as the old website was not performing as they needed it to. The new Revive website www.revivemssupport.org.uk establishes the charity’s online visibility and improves access to its wide range of services available to people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Cara Doran, Fundraising Manager at Revive MS Support, says: “We were delighted to win the competition for a new website as the one we were using was outdated and difficult for both staff and clients to use. The process of developing a new site with Mercurytide has been more than we could’ve asked for, and it has been fantastic building a website which will last and that is designed around the different needs of our service users. The Mercurytide team has made the process fun and interesting, lending us their professional skills in a number of areas and engaging with the charity wholeheartedly. We can’t thank them enough!”

Lothian and Borders Police took an unusual prisoner into custody yesterday when they recovered a snake in the West of Edinburgh.

Officers were on routine duties in Hailesland Grove around 9.15am when they heard a number of children screaming.

Further enquiry revealed that a Cornsnake had escaped and police responded swiftly to catch the animal. After a short time, two officers successfully lured the snake into a kit bag and it was taken to the SSPCA re-homing centre in Balerno to be cared for.

Staff have named him Jalapeno, as he has a fiery character.

Enquiries are ongoing to trace his owner, who is asked to come forward.

Superintendent Dougie Lynch said: “We are used to dealing with a lot of slippery characters but a snake is certainly one of the most difficult captures we’ve had in recent times.

“Thankfully, the officers in attendance proved to be real charmers and the animal was safely caught in a kit bag before being handed over to the SSPCA.

“Anyone who believes their Cornsnake has gone missing should contact police or SSPCA immediately.”

Centre Manager Diane Stewart said, “Jalapeno was very thin and dehydrated on arrival, suggesting he’s been roaming on his own for some time.

“Snakes need heat to survive so he’s lucky to be alive after being found outdoors in freezing temperatures.

“He seems a bit brighter after a night warming up in a vivarium on a heat mat so we hope he’ll continue to improve.  Anyone who recognises
Jalapeno should contact our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.”

The Edinburgh Prison Officers Club have been given notice to quit their premises by today but now they have support from all city councillors and Gordon MacDonald MSP in their bid to stay put.  This is the joint letter which has been sent to the Chief Executive of Scottish Prisons today…..

Joint letter from City Councillors and Gordon MacDonald MSP to Scottish Prison Service by