Dame Elizabeth Blackadder – Child bitten by dog – Tonight at the Queen’s Hall – Portobello High School – Cycling improvements 

Dame Elizabeth Blackadder has been nominated for the prestigious Edinburgh Award. Read more here.

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Lothian and Borders Police are appealing for information following an incident where a dog bit a child in Craigmillar on Thursday 20 December.

The two-year-old child had just been picked up from nursery at around 4pm by her mother and taken to the playpark at Castlepark Green.

As they left, they were approached by the dog which wasn’t on a lead and had no owner immediately present.

Without provocation the dog bit the little girl, causing facial injuries.

A man who was walking in the area ran to the assistance of the child, forced the dog off the child and the dog ran off.

The child was taken to Craigmillar Medical Practice where she was treated for a facial cut and scratches.

Now, officers are trying to trace the dog responsible, which is described as being a brown Staffordshire Bull Terrier with black spots and a heavy build.

They are also looking to trace the person who came forward to help the family.

Inspector Roddy Hardy said: “This was a traumatic incident for the child and we are grateful that there was a member of the public available to help them.

“The dog responsible had no owner that the mother could see, and ran off in an unknown direction. As such, we are keen to trace the animal as a matter of urgency to ensure no further incidents occur.

“Similarly, we are keen to trace the good Samaritan who came to the aid of the little girl to see if they have any further information to help with our enquiries.”

Anyone with any information that can assist our enquiries should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers, where information can be reported anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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Tonight at the Queen’s Hall there is The Christmas Songwriters Club starting at 7:00pm and starring local groups like Withered Hand and our own favourites, The Machine Room. Tickets are £10 here.

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People in Portobello are still campaigning both for and against a new High School being built in the park. Both sides agree that a new school is necessary, but one side wants to preserve Portobello Park and the other wants the school built there saying that it is the best option.

Here is the latest in a string of videos on the subject:-

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f98pQg5JK0U]

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One of Scotland’s most popular artists is to receive the much-coveted Edinburgh Award.

Elizabeth Blackadder, who is the Queen’s Painter in Scotland, will be presented with an engraved Loving Cup at a ceremony in early 2013.

She will also have a mould of her handprints taken, which will be engraved – and immortalised – on a flagstone in the City Chambers quadrangle.

Lord Provost Donald Wilson said: “The Edinburgh Award enables the people of Edinburgh to pay a lasting tribute to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the city through their work or achievements.

“I am delighted to present this year’s award to Elizabeth Blackadder who has devoted her life to education and the creation of wonderful pictures that bring pleasure to all who view them.

“She has enriched the lives of Edinburgh’s citizens and those of countless visitors to this city and is a deserved winner of one of our most prestigious civic awards.”

The first woman to hold the post of Queen’s Painter and Limner in Scotland, Mrs Blackadder is also a Dame of the British Empire. She was honoured last year by the National Galleries of Scotland with a career retrospective exhibition of her work.

Following her education at Edinburgh College of Art and the University of Edinburgh, she spent her working life in Edinburgh while exhibiting widely with major shows in London, Florence, Berlin and Tokyo, greatly enhancing her reputation and that of the City of Edinburgh.

The Award decision was taken by a judging panel chaired by the Lord Provost, with representatives from all political groups on the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

First launched in 2007, the Award is a way for Edinburgh citizens to pay a lasting tribute to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the city through their achievements.

Elizabeth Blackadder biography in brief
1931 Born in Falkirk, Scotland
1936–1943  Strone Village School & Dunoon Grammar School
1943–1949  Falkirk High School
1949–1954  Joint fine art degree, 1st class hons, Edinburgh University & ECA
1954  Andrew Grant Post Graduate Scholarship
1955–1956  Travelling Scholarship – Travelled in Italy
1956  Married John Houston
1958  Librarian, Fine Art Department, Edinburgh University
1962  Full time teacher, ECA

Awards
1963   ARSA
1971   ARA
1972   RSA
1976   RA
1982   OBE
1988   D.Litt, Heriot Watt University
1990   Hon Doctorate, University of Edinburgh
1992   Hon Member, RSW
1994   Hon Fellow, Royal Society of Edinburgh
1997   Hon Doctorate, Aberdeen University. Further Hon Doctorates: Glasgow, St Andrews, Stirling and Strathclyde Universities
2003   Dame

Lothian and Borders Police have released a CCTV image of a man they wish to speak to in connection with their enquiries into a theft from a car park in Edinburgh.

The incident happened between 1.30pm and 2.10pm on Saturday, October 20, at the NCP car park in Greenside Place.

A car was broken into and a number of items were stolen. A number of similar incidents have taken place in recent months at car parks across the city centre.

The image shows the man who police wish to trace at the NCP car park in Greenside Place, carrying an orange bag.

He is described as white, 65 to 75-years-old, 6ft tall, slim build, grey hair, and wearing glasses. He is wearing a dark coloured baseball cap, a white shirt with dark tie, and black jacket and trousers.

Inspector Gary Dickson, from Lothian and Borders Police, said: “A number of items were stolen in this most recent incident, and we are keen to speak to the man in the CCTV image as part of our enquiries.

“Anyone who recognises him, or can provide any information regarding his present whereabouts, should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or contact the charity Crimestoppers, where information can be passed on anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

RNLI rescue a Christmas tree – Happy Christmas from Lothian Buses – Free Football in Gorgie and Dalry – My Place Awards – Reminder about your bin collection

In Anstruther the RNLI were called out to save the day when the town’s Christmas tree toppled into the sea! Watch the rescue here:-

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELmrvTLG0Sg]

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Lovely video Christmas card here from Lothian Buses!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKR-6ED3Yik]

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Tomorrow morning Saturday 22nd December at Dalry Park from 10am-2pm

If you’re aged 8-18 and live in the Gorgie/Dalry Area, come and have a game! As part of Operation Cipher Lothian and Borders Police and Dunedin Canmore are holding free football sessions through December and the New Year. Girls and boys welcome, just bring comfortable clothes and trainers, and an emergency contact name and telephone number.

Christmas is the time of year for the whole family and the latest partnership project with the Police, the Council’s South West Neighbourhood Team, the Fire Service, Dunedin Canmore Housing and Castlerock Edinvar are keen to include all age groups in their events too.

Based in Gorgie, Dalry and Fountainbridge, Operation Cipher 2 follows on from the recent success of the first Operation Cipher, which was based in the Calders area of the city. The aim of the project is to speak with local people and encourage them to work with the different agencies involved to improve the area. Since this project started in November the teams have been dealing with antisocial behaviour issues in the area such as dog fouling, fly tipping, smoking related litter, graffiti and noisy neighbours. However, what really marks out this project though are the different methods by which the teams are engaging all sections of the community.

From hosting games of football with local teens on a mobile pitch to meeting with older reading groups in the local library the teams have been working hard to make sure that they engage as wide a range of residents as possible.

“What we want to do is speak to as many local residents as possible. We want them to tell us where the problems are in the area and how they want to see us deal with them. All the agencies involved are professionals at what they do but what we’re looking for are local residents to give us their local knowledge of what’s going on in the area. Rather than waiting for people to come to us we’re going out into the community, to local supermarkets, local youth clubs and the local library to make it as easy as possible for people give us their thoughts.”

If you live or work in Gorgie, Dalry or Fountainbridge and want to get involved in this project contact the South West Neighbourhood Office on 0131 527 3800 or email  southwestteam@edinburgh.gov.uk

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The Scottish Civic Trust is inviting entries and nominations for their My Place Awards. Community based group including civic societies, amenity groups, history and heritage societies, preservation trusts, community councils, development trusts, and other local voluntary groups can enter. The winner in 2012 was the Maryhill Burgh Halls in Glasgow.

For the past few months, The Edinburgh Reporter has highlighted the activities of many incredible people who have given their time and effort to raise money for worthy causes. People such as Andrew Dickson, who cycled across Australia on behalf of the Craig Gowans Memorial Fund and Radio Lollipop, Gordon Smith who cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats for the Marie Curie Centre and Shona Pryde who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro for FACE (Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh), to name but a few.

On Sunday I had the privilege to see at first-hand how some of the money raised by all these efforts was spent, when I was invited to accompany volunteers from FACE along with children, teenagers and adults who have been touched by cancer, in one way or another, to visit Santa Claus in his home in Lapland. This year, sadly, a number of the youngsters had experienced the death of a parent within the last three months, and this trip meant that, at least for one day, they could turn their minds to some happier thoughts.

The trip is an annual event, paid for by the efforts of many fundraisers, and I was delighted to take up their generous offer.

Throughout the year FACE Convenor, John Macaulay MBE, who is also involved with Radio Lollipop at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, meets with medical staff who identify suitable patients from both hospitals.

Our group included 18 children, teenagers and adults aged from two to forty six who have experienced illness or grief. The party also included many volunteers, who act as helpers for the children throughout the day.

Arriving at Edinburgh Airport at 5.45am, there were a few bleary eyes among the adults as we boarded the three hour flight to Kittila Airport in the North of Finland.

Alarmingly, the plane was too heavy to take off, and the Captain asked us to all flap our arms up and down, which eventually did the trick. The time passed quickly as volunteers Liam and Martin organised a sing-a-long of Christmas carols, including ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer,’  ‘Away in a Manger’ and ‘When Santa got stuck up the Chimney.’

After running out of volunteers, Martin suggested a singing contest between the left side and the right side of the plane, and whilst the right side were louder, without being biased, we on the left were more in tune. When the songs eventually dried up, a number of young budding Christmas Cracker joke writers kept us entertained with a steady supply of jokes and  riddles such as  ‘What is an Ig?’ and ‘Why does a golfer wear two pairs of trousers?’

With about half an hour left on the flight there was a scare when the worsening weather conditions meant that the captain could not see through the thick fog, so an emergency call was put through to Lapland Air Traffic Control.  Santa immediately scrambled Dasher, Dancer, Prancer,  Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen to locate our plane and guide us through the fog. Thankfully Rudolph was available to lead the reindeers and they quickly tracked us down before hooking onto the aircraft and guiding us to the airport, as Lapland Aviation rules forbid fights landing at the village as it disturbs the elves who are busy making toys.  Santa unhooked the sleigh just as we were descending and waved us off with a cheery goodbye.

When we touched down, the snow had just started and the temperature was minus 11 degrees, although it eventually warmed up to a balmy minus 10.

Thankfully, we were taken to a warehouse and given warm clothes, including fur lined boots with extra thick socks, a padded one piece suit, padded gloves and a balaclava. Outside we were given a crash helmet and directed to a ‘Skidoo’ and eight-seater sledge.

Each compartment of the sledge contained a blanket which came in handy during the 35 minute sleigh ride through the forest to Santa’s Village where we were greeted by some of his Special Elves, including Tricky Dicky who (mistakenly) thought it would be funny to pelt us with snowballs.

In an effort to thaw out, I headed straight to a log cabin advertising hot drinks, and an Elf named Asta (or Pasta without the P as she explained) supplied mugs of berry juice. I had three before discovering that there was no alcohol in it, and then decided to explore the village along with the children.

First stop was another sledge ride, but this time we were pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies instead of the skidoo. Next was a visit to the souvenir shop and a wander round the reindeer enclosure. Dozens of everyone’s favourite Christmas songs, (and also Cliff’s ‘Saviour’s Day’) continually blared out from a cabin in the village, and some more of Santa’s Special Elves, namely Noisy Nod and Steely Sam were on hand to entertain the adults and kids.

After some more hot berry juice and a peaceful 10 minutes in a wigwam with a roaring fire, it was back on the sledge, but this time we were pulled by Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and the rest of the gang who had thankfully arrived back safely.

The highlight of the day for everybody was without doubt meeting Santa, and his personal assistant ‘Snowy Bowy.’ Unbeknown to me, Santa is a big supporter of FACE, and even attended their Christmas Ball last month. When he was there, he happened to mention that in his spare time, after a hard day making toys, he liked to put his feet up and read about Detective Inspector Rebus’s latest adventures. When Ian Rankin, who is also a great supporter of the charity, found out, he handed over a copy of his latest book ‘Standing on another man’s Grave’ with a personalised message inside, so the guests witnessed the unusual sight of Santa receiving a present from John Macaulay.

All too quickly, time was up and we all headed back to the Airport, although, to my relief, instead of the skidoo and sledge, a warm bus was waiting. There were a few tired faces on the flight back, and I suspect that one or two schools would be missing the odd pupil on Monday morning, although John Macaulay was in Foresters High School at 7.20am.

All in all it was a fantastic day I would like to pay a personal tribute to everyone involved, including the volunteers, Liam, Martin, Fiona, Anne. Jim B, Jim P, Kat and Rachel. the medical team, Doctor Trevor, June, Fiona B and Barbara, and Alex the photographer. One volunteer who deserves a special mention on her first Lapland trip was sixteen year old Lizzie Arnot. This was the culmination of an unforgettable year for the Corstorphine teenager who made her debut for Hibs Ladies in a 19-1 victory over Kilmarnock, became the Edinburgh Sports Academy ‘Athlete of the Year,’ and carried the Olympic Torch in Bread Street.

Every single one of them has my utmost respect and admiration, and it was a tremendous honour and thrill to witness their efforts during a long and tiring day.

The bravery of the children, teenagers and adults was humbling, and there was many a tear shed. Several times my own thoughts turned to my beautiful niece Dawn who lost her brave fight with leukaemia over 25 years ago. Such trips were not available at that time, but I know she would have loved every minute of the day, and when I closed my eyes, I could picture her happy smiling face amongst the revellers.

FACE was founded in 1990 and originally stood for Fighting Against Cancer in Edinburgh but has now come to represent the activities of a group of people working throughout the South East of Scotland.

The charity is based in the Western General Hospital and raises money to improve the facilities for the benefit of patients there and the peripheral clinics in Fife, Edinburgh and the Lothians, the Borders and Dumfries. It differs from other cancer charities such as Cancer Research UK,   which provides money for major enhancements in cancer care in the form of new Buildings and Research.

Throughout the year FACE undertakes many projects at both the Western and also at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh, where they continue to provide Aromatherapy sessions for patients within the wards of the hospitals.

The highlight of the year for many is the Lapland trip, but the costs increase every year, and such days are only possible with the generosity of the public, and the hard work of dedicated fundraisers. The trip costs in the region of £20,000, and fundraising is an on-going necessity. Last month, the first charity ball at the Balmoral Hotel, sponsored by Tickets Scotland, raised nearly £8000 and the Christmas Fair held at the Western General raised another £11,000.

Back in the relative warmth of Edinburgh, John Macaulay MBE thanked the many volunteers who helped make the day an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. He told the Edinburgh Reporter: “I am indebted to volunteers who are associated with the charity, who give up their time in travelling to make simple journey more magical. We have friends who have experienced cancer to nurses and doctors who are involved at both hospitals and are keen to help the travellers. Our aims are to make and support friends and families affected by cancer in a positive way.

“We have received many e mails of thanks to the FACE team ranging from comments like “Thank you John and the team for making the Impossible Trip Possible “to a mother of two young children who comments what a fantastic experience our little girl had a wonderful time and I would love to help in your fundraising thank you.

“This is my 19th year in taking that journey north to see our special Santa in his Arctic Home in Kittila in Lapland high up in the Arctic Circle in Finland.   We have had some wonderful memories and at times some sad stories but seeing the smiles on everyone’s face as they arrive home to their families, this is truly SPECIAL and I suppose that why I do it.”

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so at the website www.facescotland.org.uk or to the Edinburgh Cancer Centre at the Western General Hospital.

PS An ‘Ig’ is an eskimo’s house without a toilet, and a golfer wears two pairs of trousers in case he gets a hole in one!

In a world of urgency, music that has been brewed over time has the power to stop you in your tracks.

After spending the last year and a half honing their sound and gigging across the country, the Edinburgh four-piece’s third single comes with more than just promise. Fully formed with Fender’s firing on all cylinders, ‘Gezellig’ is the cherry on top of the charming catchiness of their first two releases.

Straight to business with from the very first chord, lead singer Raff Eragona’s velvet voice sits seamlessly with the band’s upbeat indie. Continually complementing each other, ’Gezellig’ is the perfect blend of highs and lows.

Chris Finn’s solos never linger longer than is needed whilst drummer Jordan Harvey’s backing is driving but never overbearing. The song’s peak comes in a few fleeting seconds of calm mid-way through, when Eragona’s voice rises above this temporary lull to assert the chorus of  “Darling I was a sorry state when you found me/You shook me up and you spun me round/I will always remember that”. Perfectly in control before launching back into their freewheeling riffs – it builds not only momentum but anticipation for more.

Alas, but in just over three minutes The OK Social Club manage to throw out the kind of aerodynamic, adrenalin-fuelled sunshine rock that most bands flounder about on a whole album trying to achieve. Crucially ‘Gezellig’ has an all-important intangibility about it – combining Beach Boys vocals with Dave Davies guitars to create something completely alluring.

With debut album Nothing in Common out early next year and a prestigious spot at this year’s Edinburgh Hogmanay celebrations, The OK Social Club are doing more than just alright.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krz2GHPUjaI]

£10,000 worth of drugs were  recovered following a joint operation between Lothian and Borders Police and British Transport Police in Edinburgh yesterday.

The activity took place at Waverley Train Station and Edinburgh Bus Station and is part of Operation Astrodome, the festive anti-crime initiative in the city centre. Specialist officers and police search dogs conducted a number of searches of people and property throughout the day.

At one point during the activity, a man who was carrying two bags spotted officers and made off from the station, leaving the two bags behind. Around £10,000 worth of herbal cannabis was found within the bags, and further enquiry is now ongoing to trace the man who made off. He is described as being a black male aged between 20 to 30 wearing tan/ fawn coloured shoes and a dark jacket and trousers.

Inspector Gill Geany from Lothian and Borders police said: “This operation was put in place to ensure people coming into Edinburgh can enjoy all that the city has to offer safely.

“Partnership working with colleagues from the British Transport Police was crucial to its’ success and the recovery of the drugs found. This is a great result and I hope that, with the public’s help, we will trace the suspect who these drugs belong to. Operation Astrodome is now in its 5th year and is so far proving successful in tackling crime in the city centre.

“We will continue to carry out high-visibility patrols, while also using CCTV and other crime detection and prevention techniques in order to deter criminality and ensure members of the public are kept safe.

Anyone who recognises the description of the suspect should contact Lothian and Borders Police immediately on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 26-year-old man has today been found guilty of murdering a Polish man in his own flat in Edinburgh.

Maciej Ciania (34) picture above, was found dead in the address in Dickson Street on 14th January 2012. He had suffered multiple stab wounds during an attack by his former friend. At the High Court in Edinburgh today, Grzegorz Gamla, also a Polish national was found guilty of his murder.

Following the discovery of the body of Mr Ciania a murder enquiry was launched, and over 60 officers from across the Force worked with communities across Edinburgh to find the person responsible. In particular, officers worked with Eastern European communities in the city as well as Polish authorities both in the UK and in Poland.

Grzegorz Gamla was also found guilty of assault to severe injury in relation to a previous assault on Mr Ciania.

Detective Inspector Stuart Houston from Lothian and Borders Police said: “Maciej Ciania’s family have lost a much-loved son and brother and experienced a truly terrible and life-changing ordeal. I am extremely grateful to the Polish authorities who, along with Lothian and Borders Police and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, assisted in securing the timely arrest of Gregorz Gamla in Poland. The investigation involved a great deal of partnership working with Scottish police and other law enforcement agencies across Europe and I have no doubt that this went a long way to securing Mr Gamla’s swift return to Scotland.

“The support provided to the Force from the Polish community in Edinburgh, particularly from local churches and Polish support organizations, was crucial in our investigation and I would like to thank them publicly today.”

Maciej Ciania’s sister, Aleksandra Poprawska, said:- “Maciej lived in Edinburgh for ten years and from the very beginning he regarded the city as his second home. We would like to thank wholeheartedly all those who have been helping us since my brother’s tragic death, including the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service – they were like a light in the darkness surrounding us and did everything they could to ease our pain.

“We would also like to thank Lothian and Borders Police. From the very start of the enquiry we were impressed by the way they combined the highest standards of professionalism with a warm, personal approach – like a perfect mechanism with a heart.

“Nothing will bring Maciej back but we are relieved to know that the person who committed this terrible crime will probably never hurt anyone again and no other family will suffer like we do.”

The Traverse Theatre has announced highlights from its 50th anniversary season, which includes two new productions produced by the Traverse, and an ambitious year-long project that brings together 50 international playwrights.

The Traverse Fifty were selected after entering a playwriting competition held by the Edinburgh new-writing theatre in September 2012 called 500-word Plays for Edinburgh. Writers from across the globe submitted 630 scripts, and the 50 winning writers come from Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Croatia and Australia.

The winning 50 short plays will be performed together on 26 January, and the Traverse Fifty project will culminate in a new-writing festival at the theatre in the autumn.

The first of the two new plays produced by the Traverse is Found at Sea, adapted by David Greig from a sequence of poems by the novelist and poet Andrew Greig. It tells the tale an odyssey to Orkney by two old friends, and will star Tam Dean Burn and Lewis Howden (19-23 February).

In the second Traverse production, Rob Drummond makes his main-stage debut with Quiz Show, following huge critical acclaim for his 2012 Fringe show Bullet Catch. Drummond’s new play runs from 2 to 20 April.

The Traverse also hosts the sixth annual Manipulate visual theatre festival, which presents its biggest programme of puppetry, physical theatre and film to date (3-16 February). And the highly successful A Play, A Pie and a Pint series returns, also for its sixth season (19 February-23 March).

Among many productions from visiting companies are Mull Theatre’s My Name is Rachel Corrie (2 March), Firebrand’s production of White Rose by Peter Arnott (13-16 March), Lyceum Youth Theatre in What Are They Like? by Lucinda Coxon (14-16 March), and Jenna Watt’s Fringe First-winning Flâneurs (23-24 May). Ireland’s Gare St Lazare returns to the theatre with an adaptation of Samuel Beckett’s First Love (23-25 May).

Speaking about the anniversary, artistic director Orla O’Loughlin and executive director Linda Crooks said: ‘We are honoured to be at the helm as the Traverse embarks on its 50th year. The Traverse was conceived in 1963 with a desire to present world-class new work to the people of Edinburgh and beyond, and this still holds true today. This year our passion for new writing and commitment to presenting new work is as strong as ever, and we are delighted to launch a spring season jam packed with the very best theatre around. We are especially thrilled to be investing in 50 brand new theatrical voices with our Traverse Fifty project.’

Read more details at the Traverse Theatre‘s website.

Oaklands Special School – Last minute Christmas presents – Have a WHALE of a Christmas – Traffic Free Holyrood Park for Christmas -Videos

Staff and pupils at Oaklands Special School on Ferry Road were celebrating this week when they were awarded the MOVE quality mark and a lovely flag to show off the fact! Read more here.

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There is always something to be bought at the last minute. Even in the days of tightening belts chocolate always goes down a treat…. Read our advertorial here for inspiration! (and news of a shop which is open on Christmas Day!)

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WHALE Arts in Wester Hailes is a community arts organisation which really does make a difference. And here they wish you a Happy Christmas in their own unique way!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVUvr0pZ7P4]

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Visitors to Holyrood Park in Edinburgh will be able to enjoy a safe, traffic-free environment during four days of road closures over the festive season.

There will be road closures on December 25th, December 26th 2012, January 1st and January 2nd 2013.

There will also be additional road closures on Saturday January 5th and Sunday January 6th for the International Cross Country races and 5 Km public races.

The closures, which operate from 8am till 4pm on the 25th and 26th and 8am till 5pm on the 1st and 2nd, will be put in place at Queen’s Drive and Duddingston Low Road.

Martin Gray, Ranger and Visitors Services Manager for Historic Scotland at Holyrood Park, said : “These closures follow on from the success of previous years closures, encouraging people to use the Park in a safer, traffic-free environment and to take their new bikes and other Christmas presents outside for the first time.

“The closures will also allow us to welcome back several popular events as part of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations including Dogmanay and the Tri-athlon. In addition we are also closing the Park over the weekend of Saturday 5th January to accommodate the International Cross Country and public 5km race.

“We would like to thank drivers for their understanding, particularly during the festive season when the Park is so busy.”

The High Road loop will remain open to cars on the 25th, 26th and 2nd, weather permitting, and drivers can leave their vehicles as usual at the Park’s Holyrood Palace, Meadowbank and Duddingston car parks which are free of charge on these dates.

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The Reporter has been having a bit of a video fest over the last week or so and in particular yesterday when we were out at Gogar watching the tram being put through its paces. We have also just found this rather long but very interesting video on YouTube of Edinburgh trams in the 1950s. Scroll to about 54minutes and you will see a tram on Princes Street. It will be 2014 before the tram is on Princes Street again.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9nMwT_aYgM]

If you have a story that you think would be best told on video then get in touch with us and we will happily film it for you. You can see our other videos on our YouTube channel but here is a short one of the Galloping Horses to keep things festive.

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

And Edinburgh’s Queen Margaret University lecturer, Walid Salhab, has published his lovely time lapse video of Edinburgh on Vimeo by way of a Christmas card to everyone in Edinburgh. How lovely this is!

[vimeo 55841951 w=500 h=281]

Kinetic Edinburgh II from walid salhab on Vimeo.

Oaklands Special School welcomed VIPs this week to help them celebrate the coveted MOVE (Movement for Learning Life) quality mark which has been awarded to them.  Jim Anderson OBE unveiled the flag which signifies this award.

Nigel Carter, CEO of The MOVE Partnership was extremely impressed with the results of the assessment of Oaklands School and how it has developed and integrated the MOVE programme as well as the impact it has had on the pupils.  He said “Oaklands School showed the best evidence of good practice I have ever seen”.
The assessment took place on 18 September this year, to assess the implementation and quality of the MOVE programme in the school.  It is an inclusive award that recognises good practice and progress in the MOVE principles. Consequently, Oaklands was awarded the MOVE Quality Mark and invited to become a MOVE Regional Centre of Excellence, the 18^th in Europe and 3^rd in Scotland.

Councillor Paul Godzik, Education, Children and Families Convener said, “This really is an outstanding achievement for Oaklands and I would to congratulate everyone involved for this and all the hard work put in by pupils, staff and parents.  To be the first in Edinburgh to receive this award is a fantastic achievement I and hope other schools will look to follow in their foot steps.”

Nigel Carter, CEO of The MOVE Partnership said, “When we visited here to assess the school in September I was really impressed; Oaklands School showed the best evidence of good practice I have ever seen.  We have awarded them the quality mark to recognise this and I would like to commend them for their efforts as we look forward to working together further in the future.”

Jim Anderson, former paralympian swimmer was on hand to help with the unveiling of the MOVE flag today and spent some time speaking with pupils and staff after the event.

MOVE (Movement for Learning and Life) helps children who have complex disabilities to:

• Acquire and maintain increased independence in sitting, standing, walking and transferring,
• Learn, gain and maintain more mobility through transference of skills and
• Experience better health, enhanced personal dignity, improved communication skills and access to education.

Increased abilities in sitting, standing and walking decrease the burden of care for families and care providers. These increased abilities also bring new opportunities for greater participation and involvement in family life and for inclusion into the wider community.

MOVE is a programme shown to improve functional mobility skills and empower children and adults who have complex physical and learning disabilities to better direct their own lives. The MOVE Programme uses a family/person centred approach to develop functional mobility, based on current theory and research in education, therapy, biomechanics and motor science.

The weather no longer prevents pupils at Prospect Bank Special School in Edinburgh from going outside, as a recent funding boost has enabled the purchase of waterproof clothing. The school was awarded £350 from the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Learning Outdoors Fund to increase participation in outdoor learning and natural play, regardless of the weather conditions.

Supported by Forestry Commission Scotland, the CSGN Learning Outdoors Fund promotes learning and play outdoors and healthier lifestyles amongst the education community.

Susan McLaren, Principal Teacher at Prospect Bank Special School, said: “We are extremely grateful for this much needed financial support from the CSGN Learning Outdoors Fund, which has allowed us to buy a full class set of good quality waterproofs which should last us for many years to come.

“A trip to the woods on a rainy day last year was a great success – the children loved the sensory experience of splashing in the puddles and squelching in mud, but with no waterproofs we had some very soggy children to bring back to school. It’s great that we can now continue with our outdoor trips, whatever the weather.”

Schools and nurseries across Central Scotland are invited to apply for a grant of between £200 and £350 to develop the outdoor educational space within their grounds and beyond, or to purchase equipment to use for learning and play outside. Funding is also available to support training or other educational resources to enable staff to lead outdoor learning and natural play.

An audit tool, developed in partnership with Grounds for Learning, enables schools and nurseries to identify potential gaps in their provision of learning outdoors so they can prioritise areas of improvement.

Keith Geddes, Chair of the Central Scotland Green Network Partnership Board, said: “Our Learning Outdoors Fund seeks to promote healthy lifestyles by facilitating the improvement of outdoor education spaces, thereby enabling children and teaching staff to spend more time outside.

“Prospect Bank Special School is a fantastic example of how some support can really transform the learning experience for children by allowing them to enjoy the outdoors in all weather conditions.”

Karen Boyd, Education Officer at Forestry Commission Scotland, explains: “Learning outdoors is such an enriching experience for children and can make a real difference to their development. When children learn outside they naturally use their senses to pick up new concepts, and, of course, this energy of being outdoors comes back into the classroom with them and helps concentration.

”The funding can be used for outdoor equipment, like wet weather gear to make sure that weather isn’t a barrier to getting outside, and can take place within school grounds or at local woodlands nearby.

“It can also be used to support training or other educational resources to enable staff to lead outdoor learning. Once you’ve witnessed a group of teachers enthusiastically taking part in an outdoor training session – doing den making and symmetry work – in cold, wet November, you become a firm believer about the positive benefits this type of learning has on children!”

For further information on the CSGN Learning Outdoors Fund, please visit http://www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org/Funding/csgn-learning-outdoors-fund

Submitted by Central Scotland Green Network

WHO ARE YOU AND WHERE DID YOU COME FROM

My name is Clemens Hoss d’Estenfeld, owner of The Mulroy restaurant on William Street, which we launched last September.  This is my first venture as a restaurateur, although I have many years’ experience in managing country house hotels.  The Mulroy specialises in high quality dining, at affordable prices and I have been delighted by the response we have had from both local diners and visitors from further afield.

WHAT IS THE BUSINESS BOOK YOU RECOMMEND THAT EVERYONE SHOULD READ

It’s not a book as such, but I believe that the most important reading material for a business owner is their business plan.  Reviewing it regularly helps ensure you continue to achieve your goals.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE YOUR BUSINESS STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

One of my strengths is that I always focus first and foremost on the customer – I want to make sure that The Mulroy not just meets but exceeds their expectations, wherever possible.  I am not sure it is a weakness, but I find it hard to switch off, as running a restaurant means there is always something to think about.

WHAT WAS THE DEFINING MOMENT ON YOUR CAREER PATH THAT HAS GOT YOU WHERE YOU ARE NOW

Sadly it was a family bereavement.  It made me realise that life is short and that I should pursue my long-standing ambition of opening my own restaurant as soon as possible.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME

I don’t have much spare time, as the hours can be very long, when you are running a busy and successful restaurant.  When I am not working, I like to spend my spare time with my wife, who is an interior designer.   I also enjoy writing and am currently writing a novel, which is semi-autobiographical – it helps me unwind from the pressures of the day.

DO YOU THINK YOU ACHIEVE A GOOD WORK/LIFE BALANCE

It is not easy to achieve a good work/life balance as a restaurateur, especially in the first few years, but I am trying and ensure I have at least one day off per week now that The Mulroy is up and running.  When you are passionate about your business, it can take up more of your time than you planned, but I am lucky that my wife is very supportive and involved.

WHAT MAKES EDINBURGH THE BEST LOCATION FOR YOU TO LIVE AND/OR WORK IN

Edinburgh offers a quality of life that is hard to find in other cities.  It’s big enough to offer everything you would expect to find in a capital city, but small enough to retain its unique personality.

WHAT IS YOUR SPECIAL AREA OF EDINBURGH OR SPECIAL PLACE IN EDINBURGH AND WHY

My favourite area of Edinburgh is the West End, for its village atmosphere.  It has a selection of great restaurants, shops and cafes for both visitors and residents and deserves to be even more popular than it is already.  I would like to see a farmer’s market in this part of town, similar to the one in Stockbridge – I think it would be a big attraction here too.

WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE PINNACLE OF YOUR CAREER

After many years of dreaming of having my own restaurant, seeing it become a reality and being fully booked on a regular basis has been the pinnacle of my career so far.

IF YOU HAVE A MENTOR, TELL US WHO THAT IS AND ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP

I have a wide range of mentors – some are in business and some are not, but what they all have in common is the ability to give good advice, that I value and trust.

WHICH NETWORKING GROUPS IN EDINBURGH HAVE YOU FOUND PARTICULARLY USEFUL

I have not yet had the chance to join any networking groups.  I have already met lots of people through the restaurant and contacts within the trade, but you can never have too many good contacts.

WHO ARE YOUR BUSINESS HEROES

I believe that anyone who runs a small business is a hero – it is one of the most challenging things you can do.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE NEXT YEAR

I have lots of exciting plans for next year, some of which are already being implemented.  The launch of the Mulroy Club has attracted a lot of interest – it’s an offshoot of the restaurant and provides special offers and events, exclusively to members.

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY FOR US

My typical day is around 12-14 hours long, so it is just as well that I don’t need a lot of sleep!

BEST JOB ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED

Be flexible and take risks – providing that what you are taking a risk on is something that you believe in passionately.

The Mulroy restaurant (www.themulroy.co.uk) is at 11a-13a William St, Edinburgh (0131 225 6061)

The Reporter braved the cold this morning to meet up with the Transport Minister,Keith Brown MSP and Edinburgh Council Transport convener Councillor Lesley Hinds to witness one of Edinburgh’s trams being tested at full speed. First of all it crept past us a couple of times to get warmed up and then hurtled past at full speed of just over 40 mph as you can see in our video.

The test took place out at Gogar on the section of the tram route which has been electrified. The tram runs and system tests are the final part the development of this section of the route. The 2.8km stretch will be handed over by contractors to the Council in March following testing and commissioning. It has to be said that the tram was fairly quiet as it passed us by.

The contractors are now taking a break from the end of this week until 7 January 2013. Over Christmas and New Year there are plans to reduce the congestion from road works. Access at the West End has been changed and crossing points for pedestrians improved. The site fencing is being moved so that pedestrians have as much room on the pavement to pass by as they can.

The council say that the tram project remains in line with the revised budget (£776m) approved by the Council in September 2011, with work either ahead of schedule or in line with the revised timescale reported in December 2011.

Passenger services are expected to run by summer 2014 and it is anticipated that full route tram testing will take place from Edinburgh Airport to York Place in late Spring 2014.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFeafS-7akE&w=560&h=315]

Trams Trams Trams – Blondie & Kenny Rogers – Sunday Post closing Edinburgh office – Bogus callers -Labour MP worried about benefit cuts

The Reporter is off to catch a tram this morning in the company of the Transport Secretary, Keith Brown and the council’s Transport Convener, Lesley Hinds, and is looking forward to telling you all about it when she gets back! The overhead power lines between the Gogar depot and the airport are now live and hopefully a wee hurl on the tram will be on offer…..

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Both Blondie and Kenny Rogers are playing The Usher Hall next year and tickets go on sale here at 9:00am. So you may have to be quick!

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Lothian and Borders Police are appealing for information following two bogus workmen incidents in Edinburgh on Monday.

A group of men called at an address in Campbell Park Crescent about 2.30pm and told the elderly resident that they were there to carry out an inspection of work they had done on the roof some time ago. After carrying out two inspections, and claiming further work would have to be done, they made off after the man handed over around £1500.

Then, around 4:00pm, two men called at an address in Caiystane Terrace claiming to have spotted a loose roof tile, and offering to go into her loft to inspect it. After examining the loft they claimed the repair would cost £900. The homeowner queried this cost, and immediately became suspicious as they claimed she would have to go to the bank to get the money immediately. They left when she said she would call the police.

Inquiries are ongoing into both incidents, and police believe they may be linked as the descriptions of the men involved are similar.

The first man is white, 40-50-years-old, squat build and was wearing a woollen hat/dark baseball cap, blue heavy duty jacket and said his name was Mr Stewart.

The other two men are both described as being white, in their early 20s, 5ft 7ins tall. One of them was wearing a white jacket, the other was wearing a dark waterproof jacket.

Detective Sergeant Ben Leathes said: “These men have preyed upon elderly homeowners in both incidents, and in the first case taken a significant amount of money from the homeowner.

“Door to door inquiries have been carried out in the local area, and CCTV opportunities are being explored.

“We would remind people to always ask for formal identification from any cold callers, and to follow it up with a phone call to their workplace – genuine workers will be happy to provide their details, and this is often enough to deter bogus workmen.

“We are appealing for anyone who may have also been approached by these men yesterday, or who may recognise the description of the men involved, to contact us on 0131 311 3131. We would also be keen to hear from anyone who was aware of people acting suspiciously, or saw a suspicious vehicle in the areas involved.

“Anyone seeking further information or advice on how to deal with cold callers should contact us and ask to speak to their local crime prevention officer, or check the personal safety section of our website (www.lbp.police.uk).”

Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

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It appears that The Sunday Post is to close its Edinburgh office which might have opened here as long ago as the 1920s. The newspaper will continue to have an office in Glasgow working on news analysis according to AllMediaScotland.

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Over 5,000 working families in Edinburgh North and Leith are being squeezed between rising prices and cuts in Government support according to local Labour MP, Mark Lazarowicz, who claims that over 5,000 working families in Edinburgh North and Leith will be hit by the Chancellor’s decision to increase working age benefits by only 1% for the next three years – equivalent to a cut in real terms.

That’s because the latest inflation figures out this week show it remains above the Government’s target of 2% as it has been every month since December 2009 and according to independent forecasts commissioned by the Government it is likely to stay there as far ahead as 2018.

Mark Lazarowicz said:-“In his Autumn Statement the Chancellor tried to pit hard working families against those who have opted for a life on benefits. The reality is very different. Help for working families such as maternity pay and working tax credits will not keep pace with inflation. At the same time they are being squeezed by rocketing fuel bills, rising housing costs and high food prices. The Chancellor’s priority should have been to support them, not a tax cut for people earning over £150,000 a year.

The inflation figures for November show CPI at 2.7% and the forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility – whose work the Chancellor referred to throughout his Autumn Statement – show it failing to fall below 2% before at least 2018 – 19. The Government has said that it wants to make sure it always pays to work but basic working tax credits which aim to make up for any loss of income as people move off benefits into work will be frozen next year – 2013-14. They will rise by 1% in the two years after that but that’s half the rate of inflation forecast by the OBR in 2014-15 and 2015-16.

Of course, it is still better if people are in work but many families on low income depend on working tax credits to help meet basic bills.”

The organisers describe the music venue at 42 Royal Park Terrace on their Posterous blog as a secret venue. But that is the problem. The secret is out, and more musicians have wanted to play there in 2012 than ever before.

The council has now served an enforcement notice in terms of Town and Country Planning Legislation demanding that owner, Douglas Robertson, seeks a partial change of use for the house to allow the concerts to continue. This would trigger other constraints such as a public entertainment licence which might also be required, and the venue would have to comply with fire regulations, even though it is not run as a commercial enterprise. Robertson has said to The Reporter that he will not be applying for such consents. The council say that the notice has been served in response to a complaint made about the venue which they were duty bound to investigate.

Graeme Stephen and Fraser Fifield will appear at what may be the last concert at the House @42 tonight.

The house was formed from a supermarket some 10 years ago. Douglas and his partner live there, but have chosen to open their doors to musicians who need somewhere to perform. Robertson admits that they are probably a victim of their own success as the gigs are now a sellout almost every time.

The musicians who have performed at the house concerts appear to love the acoustics and the atmosphere there. Corran Raa said on their Facebook page advertising their May gig earlier this year that this is an ‘awesome venue’.

Robertson has not made any money from these concerts. Instead, all of the money collected by way of donations from those attending, has been given straight to the bands and musicians who have performed. Alcohol may be consumed but it is not sold there. You have to bring your own.  Douglas claims that the concerts are not a nuisance to the majority of his neighbours who more often attend the concerts as guests, and that there has not been one direct complaint from any local resident, but admits that the council’s planning department say they have had a complaint from a member of the public.

The recent visit from council officials has resulted in the council’s planning department deciding that the house concerts must  stop by the end of the year. The council have offered to assist in finding alternative premises for the musical evenings, including a proposal that Robertson might use the Trinity Apse, formerly the Brass Rubbing Centre, as a stop gap venue, although Douglas Robertson has yet to decide what he might do in the future.

Robertson wrote an article for The Edinburgh Evening News  in which he explained that it was the loss of so many of Edinburgh’s small music venues that resulted in his house being opened up to many bands and singers over recent times.

He speaks to The Reporter in our video here to explain his side of the story:-

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHf74Y4hHnw?hl=en_US&list=UUpyjaNvEF_ryiKTJ6QxCkIA]

He has vowed to find a new venue for these musicians to perform and get the public exposure they need. He has decided that it will be called Sound House, but it is as yet an unfunded and fledgling organisation although A new website has been set up in anticipation. None of this should imply that Robertson is a novice in the musical field. It was he who set up the Wee Red Bar at Edinburgh College of Art some years back, and that venue still goes strong today, but he chooses not to run the concerts as a commercial venture.

Councillor Richard Lewis who is the council’s convener for Culture and Sport said:-“Of course, we want to support those, like Douglas, whose enormous passion for live music already contributes greatly to the scene in Edinburgh – and has the potential to contribute a whole lot more – but this cannot be at the expense of the relevant planning legislation.

“Our planning officials have invited Douglas to get in touch so that they can explain and discuss their concerns and this offer still stands. Separately, myself and colleagues have reached out to him in the hope of finding an alternative venue for Sound House and held a productive meeting last week. We made a number of suggestions and await Douglas’ feedback.”

The Reporter first happened on the House @42 last year when Editor of The Broughton Spurtle, Alan McIntosh, wrote for us about his visit to 42 Royal Park Terrace for a concert in this article here. He expressed the view at that time that the organisers were steering a course designed to keep the venue well below the administrative radar.

Alan wrote then:-“The problem is that house concerts on this scale and at this regularity are probably unsustainable. They’ve had no complaints yet. They’ve broken no laws. But something will inevitably give eventually. If nothing else, the patience of neighbours must surely, finally wear thin. The challenge, then, is to find an ‘equally homely’ alternative, a venue which retains the original ethos and quirky charm, but can do so without constantly looking over its shoulder.”

You can still watch some of the concerts from the House on YouTube here. We particularly like Dean Owens version of Walk The Line :-

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smA42fFNvIw]

Douglas Robertson also runs a professional photography business from his home.

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for information after an elderly woman was assaulted as she walked home near the city centre last night. The incident happened at around 11.20pm outside the Rhema Church on Dean Bridge, opposite the junction of Eton Terrace.

The 78-year-old victim was walking with home from a function with her husband when they noticed the suspect, who was wearing a flashing Santa hat, sitting on the steps at the church door with another male, who was also wearing a Santa hat.

The couple passed them, and a few seconds later the woman was pushed from behind by the suspect, who then tried to grab her bag.

There was a struggle before the suspect ran off empty-handed, however the victim hit her head as she fell and has sustained a significant head injury.

She was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for her injuries and was later released from hospital.

The second man wasn’t present during the assault.

Both men are described as being in their late teens, and the suspect is described as wearing a bomber jacket.

Detective Sergeant Richard Creanor, who is leading the enquiry, said:-“This was an opportunistic and entirely unprovoked assault which has left an elderly woman injured and shaken.

“Both men were wearing distinctive festive hats and this key detail might jog someone’s memory who has vital information about their identity.

“I would appeal to anyone who might recognise the description of the men, or who thinks they might know who they are, to get in touch immediately.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

After the on/off/change venue/off again saga of this match over the weekend, it was quickly rescheduled for Monday night at Myreside under the lights.

The rain started along with the players coming out onto the pitch, so another miserable night watching a game of ‘drop the ball’ was anticipated. But, it wasn’t to be. For the first ten minutes the match was fairly even with just a penalty from either side to have the score standing at 3-3. Then it all seemed to go awry for Watsonians. Having their stand-off yellow carded for tripping, one he denied (and given that rugby players tend to accept the ref’s decision without the hystrionics that footballer resort to, he was probably justified), Watsonians appeared to fall apart.

The rest of the half – as the rain got heavier – was dominated by Accies, with Watsonians only popping into the equation to score a try, before Accies closed them down again and scored their fourth try of the half.

Their first three had all come in a five minute period following the yellow card. The first was a forward’s rumble over from a line-out (pictured), the second from open play and the third, under the posts, from ball passed inside after a ruck on the line. The four tries, plus a combination of kicks, put Accies ahead 30-10 when the referee blew up for half time.

The rain, if anything, got heavier as the second half opened. Whatever was said at half-time to Watsonians in the changing room worked wonders and they got stuck in right from the off. It didn’t take too long, however for the superior fire-power of the visitors to, once again, come to the fore.

Again they forced themselves upfield, but the defence held out and stopped the attacks on their line – literally on a couple of occasions. It was, however Watsonians who were to score the only points of the half. A penalty from their scrum-half after 20-odd minutes was added to late on by a duplicate of Accies first try. A kick over the defence saw the full back bundled into touch five metres out and from there the forwards weren’t leaving without the try. With the conversion going over, the home side were within ten points of the visitors. They couldn’t close the gap, though, so the match ended, under slightly lighter rain, 30-20 to Edinburgh Accies.

So another soggy match under lights ended with the expected, but not guaranteed, result for Accies. With three of their four tries being scored when Watsonians were down a, fairly influential, player, it might not have been such an ‘easy’ first half if Watsonians had ‘…kept their head when all about them, etc…’. And as Accies appeared to run out of a bit of steam as the second half progressed, maybe ‘Sonians could have taken the match. Maybe…

Report and photos – John Preece
Web – http://www.photoboxgallery.com/jlp-photography

Council Budget consultation –  Craighouse deadline looms – Tram bye-laws – HMS Edinburgh – Today at the Cameo

Remember to have your say on the council budget process. Here is a helpful video starring Councillors Rankin and Cook who are in charge of the Finance committee. A sub-committee of the Finance and Budget Committee is meeting this morning at the City Chambers. You can read the papers for the meeting here.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4y0d_D3RVY]

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You have until 21 December if you wish to object to the planning proposal for the former Edinburgh Napier University site at Craighouse. There is some information here on the Friends of Craighouse website explaining how to do it.

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You can add your own suggestions to the council consultation on tram bye-laws here.… Much has been made of the rules and regulations but really do you want to hear someone else’s iPod blasting in your ear? Have your say before 21 January.

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We have been on board HMS Edinburgh when she was last here in Leith and we quite like their Christmas video here…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEz0dfCrqaI]

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Today Great Expectations is your Christmas movie at The Cameo at 13:00. Book here.

“We say any increase is TOO much!”

Over the weekend many tenants of Muirhouse Housing Association MHA received a letter which they did not want just days before Christmas. MHA is asking tenants what they think about their proposed rent increase. Tenants contacted the association Tenants and Residents in Muirhouse TRIM highlighting concerns they had and TRIM immediately started to act upon it.

MHA Time table of increases over the past 5 years

2008 – 4.75%

2009 – 3.0%

2010 – 2.5% 2011 – 4.6%

2012 – 4.5%

This year MHA is proposing a maximum increase of 5%

TRIM has written to the board of MHA asking them to consider many factors when deciding what might be an appropriate increase:-

Homelessness – Poverty – High Fuel Bills – High Interest Rates – Salary Freeze

Whilst we fully understand that MHA have to cover costs, We feel that any increase should be kept to a minimum if at all. It is hoped that MHA will not increase their rent charges at all.

With benefit reform looming, many residents will be forced deeper in to a poverty stricken state. We suspect that many residents affected by the ”Bedroom tax” will struggle to pay the difference between their benefit and actual rent. We feel that MHA should do all they can to support their tenants and freeze their rent charges.

Reproduced below is the letter TRIM has sent to the board of Muirhouse Housing Association

”Dear Board Members,

TRIM has been contacted by a few of your tenants regarding the proposed rent increase and they are concerned about the detrimental affects that a high increase will have on their finances and their ability to pay.

Before you make a final decision TRIM would like you to take the time to consider the following points that your tenants have raised and that we, as a Tenant’s Group are concerned about.

As you know in this area we have a high proportion of residents who are in fuel poverty, have increased food bills, have a low wage with little or no pay increase and now we have the Welfare Reform starting to take affect for the people who are on partial or full benefits. We understand that Muirhouse Housing Association is not to blame for these financial decisions but feel that the real and unavoidable financial constraints on your tenants income should be a factor in any decisions that you make.

We are concerned and would like your response regarding the proposed rent increases in view of the lack of understanding regarding the impact that Welfare Reform will have on all your tenants regarding rent increases and how you are budgeting to cover the extra expenses through rent payments.

Will the Welfare Reform lead to higher than previous rent increases to cover the bad debt and increased housing management costs arising from arrears and how will this be taken forward as you plan your next budget and rent increases.

ŸHow will the poorer financial stability of your tenants affect your long term business plan and will this lead to even higher more rent increases in the future .

ŸHave you considered the impact that the proposed higher rent increase will have on the families that have partial or no housing benefit and how that will increase the child poverty and deprivation in the community as the gap between income and expenditure widens.

ŸTenants who have had no rent arrears are worried that they will have problems paying the increases as they have absolutely no disposable/spare income or savings to pay it – and have no option of making up the shortfall. One commented that they couldn’t just conjure up money out of nothing and doesn’t know how they will cope.

TRIM are concerned that a high increase in rent will adversely affect all your tenants – especially the ones who are on partial/no housing benefit and lead them into poverty and reliance on loans and credit to keep them going. This is a situation that must not be allowed to happen to a community that is already struggling with the impact of financial decisions that are not of their making.

We also realise that a higher rent increase will not in itself impact on your tenants who claim full housing benefit but the Welfare Reform changes will – from rental payments and Universal Credits to passport benefits – so we will be working with other Tenants Organisations in order that all tenants and residents in Muirhouse will know how it affects them and to get the relevant information to everybody – not just people who claim benefits.

We do understand that the rental payments is the main income for the Housing Association and that in order to provide it’s services it needs to be realistic in its rental charges – but we would ask you in this hard financial climate for the sake of all your tenants to keep your increase as low as possible. Your tenants are suffering – it will get worst as the Governments spending cuts come into full force and it is up to your Board to take care of your tenants the best as you can and help keep them in their homes. Can you have a look at all your services and participation budgets – is there anything that could be cut to lower the rental increase – is there anything you are doing that doesn’t need to be done?”

TRIM will update their site and Facebook page with any response, In the meantime they are going to contact Forth Councillors, their MSP and MP for the area asking for their backing in this matter.

Submitted by Robert Pearson

The council’s new waste collection arrangements have not gone unnoticed across the city, but in particular residents of West Pilton know all about the changes.

Traci Gaven lives in West Pilton Avenue, and on Bonfire Night the communal green bin which serves six houses including hers went missing. The lid had already disappeared a day or two before meaning that birds had free access to the rubbish which was being scattered around the street, but it appears that the bin may have been stolen and set on fire that night.

So Traci asked the council for a new bin, and she is STILL WAITING! The council apparently advised that the waiting time is 21-28 days for a normal wheelie bin but it would be quicker to get a replacement communal green bin. This has proved not to be the case. Even though Traci and her neighbours have been told they are top of the list they have not been given a delivery date yet.

As well as the missing green bin, there are other aspects of the changes to this rubbish story which have affected the West Pilton residents. It appears that the new teams simply don’t know where to collect the rubbish from.

Where Traci lives the flats can be accessed from two streets, and often their rubbish is simply missed from the fortnightly collections. Traci said:-“Although our green bin is collected from the car park at the back of the property, our red and blue recycling boxes along with food waste collections are taken from the front of the houses.

There are also communal purple bins for mixed glass out the back which are full to bursting. The recycling lorries come to the front and these bins simply don’t get emptied. Now that the purple bins are full they attract youngsters who have been seen and heard taking bottles out and throwing them at each other and at cars.

This is now really frustrating.”

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Lesley Hinds, has replied to Traci by Twitter that she will organise a collection of the glass “as soon as possible”.

According to the council’s website this morning all of their collections are up to date. If you have any problems with your own collection then this is the advice given on the council website:-

“If your bin has been missed but it is not mentioned above, please report it to waste@edinburgh.gov.uk  or call 0131 529 3030 or use our online form.

You can check your collection calendar on the online directory. Bins should be out on the kerbside by 6am, please leave them out until 10pm.”

The council have a Zero Waste strategy and want to reduce what is sent to landfill as they believe this costs too much both financially and for the environment. You can read more about the council’s plan to reduce waste and increase recycling here on their website.

As winter takes hold, people are being urged to take care as they head out into Scotland’s hills and mountains.

Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport Shona Robison has delivered the annual Winter Safety Message, to ensure those planning a trip into Scotland’s countryside are well prepared for any situation.

Joined on the slopes by pupils from Bruntsfield Primary School at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Ms Robison said:

“Scotland has an enviable reputation for having world-class hills and mountains on our doorstep. With some snowsports centres opening with the early arrival of snow, I’m glad that people are enjoying our countryside, getting active at the same time and experiencing some of the most spectacular scenery around.

“However to those climbers and hillwalkers who are not suitably prepared, our countryside can present many hazards.

“Too many lives are lost unnecessarily on Scotland’s hills and mountains each year. I urge everyone, whether you are an experienced climber or walker or not, to check local weather forecasts, plan ahead and have the correct safety equipment before heading out.”

Councillor Bob Constable, Leader of Midlothian Council, said: “Everyone likes to enjoy the great outdoors, but the Winter Safety Message is especially important at this time of year. What better place to launch this important message than at Scotland’s premier snowsports centre.

“If you are trying out some skiing this winter or perhaps taking part in many of the other activities on offer we would urge people to take extra care and attention on the slopes, but above all have some fun.”

Mark Diggins – sportscotland Avalanche Information Service said: “Winter is most certainly upon us now, and we are faced with the normal challenges that a winter in Scotland’s mountains present.

“The beauty of the highland wilderness and the exploration of the hills, mountains and glens provides a great attraction for walkers, climbers, skiers and freeriders. Many thousands of enthusiasts enjoy the Scottish mountains every winter.

“The fast changing weather, with its snowfall, avalanche hazard, strong winds, and poor visibility requires us to be much more prepared when going into the mountains in the winter, good clothing, navigational ability, appropriate equipment, movement skills on steep terrain and use of ice axe and crampons are a necessary requirement for our enjoyment and safety.

“Getting good information helps any mountain goer decide on where to go and what to do. Good information on the avalanche hazard situation can be obtained from the sportscotland Avalanche Information Service website at and weather forecasts from the MET OFFICE and Mountain Weather Information Service.”

Anyone heading out this season is being advised to:

Check the weather forecast before setting off and remember that conditions can change quickly. Localised forecasts are available on the Mountain Weather Information Service and the sportscotland Avalanche Information Service via the Mountaineering Council of Scotland website

Make sure you know your limits and don’t tackle anything that is too ambitious – winter in Scotland’s mountains can be challenging and a route that at any other time of the year is easy, can take longer and be more physically demanding.

Whether going for a relaxing walk or for a challenging climb, be properly equipped and ready to cope with changing ground and weather conditions.

Winter conditions can be serious so carry an ice axe and crampons, know how to use them and practice on less serious terrain.

Tell someone where you are going, what your route is and how long you expect to be on the hill.

Consider joining a hill walking or mountaineering club where advice and access to experience and knowledge is available.

Licensing Board – More rubbish – Cycle path upgrading – Opening hours over Christmas – Rabbie’s Girls

The council’s Licensing Board is meeting this morning under the convenership of Councillor Eric Milligan, who seems to be the last councillor to use paper rather than his council-supplied iPad. You can see the list of licences which are being considered this morning here. One of the licences being discussed is the Historic Scotland licence for Edinburgh Castle and the proposal to “Increase off sales capacity, add recorded music, book signings, food and confectionery tastings.”

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At Reporter Towers, in common with all other Edinburgh residents, we now have to remember a variety of days in the month to put out our Red Bin, Blue Bin , Food Bin and general waste. You can of course get a handy email reminder about your red and blue recycling boxes here on the website Green Box Day.

We had to make a trip to the Community Recycling Centre this weekend as the food waste bin had been left uncollected last week. Even the Deputy Leader, Councillor Steve Cardownie, admitted to us the other week that his own bin had not been emptied as scheduled.   Now once in a while that is ok. But other people in the city have ongoing problems which are becoming quite problematic for them, and are worried what will happen over Christmas when the schedules change.  Find out about the alterations to the schedules here. We will have another rubbish story later today……

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Work is due to  start on 28 January 2013 to upgrade Restalrig Railway Path between Easter Road and the former Eastern General hospital site near Seafield Street.  The council’s Active Travel Action Plan and their Local Transport Strategy support enhanced facilities for walking and cycling in the city, and this is one area where work is due to be carried out. The council say that work on the Restalrig path will last for around eight weeks.

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The council has a useful page on its website telling you all the opening hours for their services here. You can also find out what is on as part of Edinburgh’s Christmas here. We seem to have a Flying Carousel as part of it…and we always thought they were called Chairy-planes…..

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Royal Blind still have some tickets available for their ladies January fundraiser. “Now in its third year, ‘Rabbie’s Girls’ promises to be the perfect evening to vanquish those January blues!

Life is busy and it can be all too easy to allow a million and one other things to get in the way of achieving your goals, ambitions and dreams.

If this sounds all too familiar and you’re feeling unfulfilled, here are some tips that could help revitalise your life.

First of all, make a life plan, listing what you want to achieve within the next six months, year, five years and ten years. Separate it into categories of work, finance, family, health, social, relationships, personal development and any others which are important to you.

The next stage is to take action, by committing to change. Ensure that every day, you take at least one action, no matter how big or small, that will edge you closer to achieving one of your goals.

Self-awareness can also help create a more fulfilling life. So, get to know yourself better. Start by listing some top tens, for instance the top ten places you would like to visit, or the top ten things you want to achieve in life. This provides insight into what makes you happy … and what doesn’t.

Inspiration is important too, to maintain motivation. Invest in a book of inspirational or motivational quotes, or subscribe to a site that provides them. Review them daily and reflect on the wisdom they offer – this is guaranteed to lift your spirits. And why not inspire others too? Create a blog and share your goals and progress towards them.

Finally, adopt an ‘attitude of gratitude’. Before you go to sleep each night, write down a minimum of three things you are grateful for and happy to have in your life. This will put you in a positive state of mind for the next day.

Gillian Dalgliesh is a business and life coach, who recently launched ‘SlimThink’, a new service, which helps people achieve weight loss effectively and permanently. The SlimThink course also enables participants to achieve professional goals and to enhance relationships, through positive thinking techniques. The next course of workshops starts on 8 January 2013. Further information is available at www.SlimThink.com.

On Monday, 10th December 2012, children from Sacred Heart Primary School in Penicuik sang Christmas carols for two hours outside the security area within Edinburgh Airport, all with the purpose of raising funds for Tushinde, which is a school in Nairobi, and has been designated their charity of the year.

You can read more about what Tushinde does here on their website www.tushinde.org.uk

The children sang beautifully and collected a fantastic £307.46 from airport users, and have been bowled over by  a most generous gesture from the owners of Edinburgh Airport who have pledged to match this amount.

Headteacher of Sacred Heart, Mrs Mary Durkacz, said:”It was lovely to see the passengers faces light up when they saw the children. We would like to say Thank you to the choir, as well as Mrs Allan and Mrs Fergusson, for coming along and singing so beautifully.  Thank you also to Edinburgh Airport and Anna Light, for offering us the opportunity to sing and for the very kind donation.”

Christmas is a good time to have fun enjoying all the attractions and traditional markets that the city has to offer, but also a time to sit back and chill out too.

Scotland’s capital offers a wide variety of options to delight cinema lovers, from well-known cinema chains to art-house film venues. Do you need help deciding what to watch? Here are The Reporter’s top five recommendations. Not all of them are typical Christmas-themed films, but here are some of the best films of the year.

 The Hobbit: an Unexpected Journey (2D & 3D)

Release date: 13 December 2012 (Odeon Lothian Road 2D & 3D / CineWorld / Cameo 2D & 3D / Vue 2D, 3D & 3D HFR)

Rating: 12A / Peter Jackson / 2012 / 169 min / Adventure, Fantasy

Peter Jackson’s highly anticipated prequel to the successful ‘Lord of the Rings’ Trilogy is now playing in theatres worldwide and promises to delight the imagination of J.R.R Tolkien’s tales followers. Set in the familiar fantasy world of Middle-Earth, the film follows the adventures of the Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) who is hired by the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) to accompany a group of 13 dwarves on their quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from Smaug, the dragon.

It is the first film in Peter Jackson’s trilogy adaptation of the 1937 novel ‘The Hobbit’ and marks the return to the ‘Lord of the Rings’ universe in a hyper-realistic way as never seen before. Jackson is a pioneer in the use of High Frame Rate (HFR) technology that delivers more realistic viewing experiences to the audience. Opposed to the traditional 24 frames per second (fps), the Academy award-winning director shot ‘The Hobbit’ at 48 frames per second, in order to provide the viewers with, according to his own words, “an incredible and immersive experience”.

‘The Hobbit: an Unexpected Journey’ is currently screened at major multiplexes and independent cinemas across Edinburgh. It can be watched both in 2D and 3D formats.

Cinema details and session times can be found clicking on the following links:

Odeon Lothian Road 2D & 3D / CineWorld / Cameo 2D & 3D / Vue 2D, 3D & 3D HFR

The Impossible

Release date: 1 January 2013 (Vue Cinema Edinburgh Omni Centre)

Rating: 12A / Juan Antonio Bayona / 2012 / 114 minutes / Action, Drama, Thriller

‘The Impossible’ is a mind-blowing drama directed by award-winning Spanish filmmaker Juan Antonio Bayona, best known for directing his acclaimed horror film ‘The Orphanage’. His latest film is based on the true-life story of a Spanish family of five (portrayed as British, in the film) who spent most of their Christmas holiday coping with the devastating consequences of one of the worst natural disasters in modern times: the 2004 great Indian Ocean Tsunami caused by an undersea earthquake in which over 230,000 people died.

‘The Impossible’ tells the real-life tragedy of a Spanish doctor named María Belón (Naomi Watts) who, along with her husband Henry (Ewan McGregor) and their three sons find themselves fighting for their own survival and trying to help tens of thousands of strangers in their same situation. Rather than showing a more panoramic view of the disaster, the film focuses on the family’s efforts to find each other again after they are split apart by the tsunami waves. This emotionally engaging film places the family and the human being at the centre of the story.

Bayona needed four years of preparation, 25 weeks of shooting and a 30 million Euros budget to create this inspiring and heart-breaking story of self-sacrifice, love, survival and compassion where the wild nature stands in as the major antagonist.

The film harvested critical acclaim on its world premiere at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival in September 2012. In Spain, the film was released on 11 October in over 600 theatres, grossing $11,569,306 on its opening weekend (the highest-grossing opening weekend ever for a film in Spain). In October, Bayona received the Emerging Visionary Award at the 48th Chicago International Film Festival for ” bringing fresh insight, dynamism, and humanity to familiar genres”.

This English-language Spanish film is set to be released in the UK on 1 January 2013.

Further details can be found clicking on this link.

Life of Pi (2D & 3D)

Release date: 20 December 2012 (Odeon Lothian Road 2D & 3D / CineWorld / Vue 2D & 3D)

Rating: PG / Ang Lee / 2012 / 126 min / Adventure, Drama

Academy award-winning filmmaker Ang Lee has taken on the big screen adaptation of Yann Martel’s best-selling novel to create a groundbreaking film about courage, endurance and faith. This magical adventure story focuses on a young man, named Pi Patel, who survives a disaster at sea and is hurtled into an epic journey of discovery with an unexpected lifeboat mate, an adult Bengal tiger known as Richard Parker. The plot unfolds with the narrator, Pi, the precious son of a zoo keeper. He tells the story as a grown man and goes in and out of flashbacks of his childhood and his journey across the ocean.

To bring the novel to life, Lee needed an estimated $120million budget and a splendorous combination of the most impressive and breathtaking visual effects.

After hitting theatres across India, USA, Taiwan and China, ‘Life of Pi’ has won nine nominations for the 18th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards and has also received three Golden Globe nominations for Best Picture: Drama, Best Director and Best Original Score.

Ang Lee’s ‘Life of Pi’ arrives in Edinburgh’s theatres on the 20th December both in 2D and 3D formats.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BzowSv5CrU]

Cinema details and session times can be found clicking on the following links:

Odeon Lothian Road 2D & 3D / CineWorld / Vue 2D & 3D

Win a trip to India! To celebrate the release of ‘Life of Pi’, the Odeon is raffling a trip for two to India.  The prize includes return flights from London to Cochin, private transfer, 4 nights in a 4-star hotel including breakfast, private boat tour in the waters of Kerala including private cruise aboard a traditional Kettuvallam. For your chance to win this prize, simply book ‘Life of Pi’ online before 20th December. Full details available here.

Midnight’s Children

Release date: 26 December 2012 (CineWorld / Vue Cinema Edinburgh Omni Centre)

Rating: 12A / Deepa Mehta / 2012 / 146 min / Drama

‘Midnight’s Children’ is an epic film from Oscar-nominated Canadian filmmaker Deepa Mehta, based on Salman Rushdie’s ‘Best of Booker’ prize winning novel of the same name. This Canadian-American production deals with India’s transition from British colonialism to independence and the partition of British India. Considered Mehta’s most ambitious film to date, ‘Midnight’s Children’ is a visually pleasing depiction of significant events in Indian history as they are interlaced with the personal tale of the protagonist: Saleem Sinai (played as an adult by Satya Bhabha), a man with magical capabilities whose destiny was marked from birth.

The film revolves around two boys born at a key historic moment. “At the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, as India proclaims independence from Great Britain, two newborn babies are switched by a nurse in a Bombay hospital. Saleem, the illegitimate son of a poor woman, and Shiva, the offspring of a wealthy couple, are fated to live the destiny meant for each other.” (Source: The film’s official website)

As they grow up, the two boys benefit from a mysterious telepathic bond as their lives become intertwined and are inextricably linked to India’s tumultuous journey of achievements and failures.

The film premiered at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival, in September 2012. The Indian premiere took place on 10 December 2012 at the 17th International Film Festival of Kerala and it is set to be released in the UK on 26 December 2012.

Cinema details and session times can be found clicking on the following links:

CineWorld / Vue Cinema Edinburgh Omni Centre

 “Christmas at our House!” Series of films

Dates: 15 to 24 December 2012 (Filmhouse)

Seven well-known festive titles / Various ratings: U and PG

Edinburgh’s foremost independent cinema celebrates Christmas with a season of seven films being screened under the “Christmas at our House!” theme.

From Friday 15 to Monday 24 December, they will be showing the following all-time festive favourites:

• The Wizard of Oz (1939)
• It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
• The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
• The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
• Arthur Christmas (3D) (2011)
• The Nightmare Before Christmas (3D) (1993)
• The Raymond Briggs Trilogy  (Short Film Programme)

For full details about the exact screening times and ticket prices, click here.

Scots businessman completes Italian ski resort deal with Club Med

Leading Scottish developer Mark Shaw, who last year bought an Olympic ski centre and spa in the Italian Alps, has completed a multi-million euro deal that will see holiday giants Club Med lease the resort for at least the next 15 years.

The Chief Executive of the Edinburgh-based Hazledene Group hailed the link-up with the French holiday giants as a major step in the success story that has helped turn Pragelato Ski Village into a premier Alpine holiday destination. Hazledene has its Edinburgh office in the West End.

‘Pragelato has always had enormous potential as both a winter and all-year-round resort. The partnership with Club Med will undoubtedly help to fully realise that potential,’ said Mr Shaw.

He took over the resort, built for the 2006 Winter Olympics, last November in an acquisition valued at around €30 million. The future of the resort had been plunged into uncertainty after the consortium which originally owned it ran into financial difficulties.

Since completing the acquisition, four new ski runs have been added to the resort which is directly linked to the Via Lattea, the biggest winter sports centre in Italy. It is now a fully-functioning ski-in, ski-out resort.

The village, originally built at a cost of more than €100 million, comprises 280 individual chalets and extensive luxury facilities.

Mr Shaw, took ownership of the resort after more than two years of complex multi-party negotiations, during which time he helped to keep Pragelato open and running.

One of his keenest supporters throughout has been the Mayor of Pragelato, Giovanni Arolfo. He was joined by Club Med’s chairman and chief executive Henri Giscard d’Estaing, son of the former French president Valery, at a grand opening of the resort at the weekend which attracted businessmen from around the world, including a Chinese contingent.

A multi-million euro upgrade of the resort – which sits high in the mountains 50 miles to the west of Turin – was completed last summer in time for the start of the 2012/13 winter season.

Mr Shaw said: ‘When we decided to buy the resort it may have seemed a strange time to invest in Italian real estate but we were confident there was an exciting long-term future for Pragelato.

‘The sales process was very complicated, but during that time we were able to build excellent local relationships, based on a common aim, to see Pragelato finally fulfil its fantastic potential in terms of ski-ing, services and luxury accommodation.

‘It is a very exciting project that will benefit the entire local community and, with Club Med now on board, I am delighted that Pragelato has already become a much sought-after holiday destination’

The purchase of the resort was financed following a number of successful developments that Mr Shaw completed in Scotland, including the award-winning iQ office complex in Aberdeen city centre.

iQ was acquired for more than £50 million by Aerium, the European real estate fund manager, last July. It is now occupied by the Wood Group and by energy giant Centrica and commands some of the highest rentals in the UK.

Mr Shaw currently has several major development projects underway throughout Scotland and is the owner of the Park Inn By Radisson which is part of the £75 million iQ office and hotel development in Justice Mill Lane, Aberdeen.

Hazeldene is a key player in the Inverness Estates consortium and at more than £500 million, the creation of a new town centre east of the Highland capital – straddling the A96 Aberdeen road – is one of the largest single land and property development in the country.

At 1:00pm today the RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat was called out to assist people in the water struggling to get ashore from Cramond Island.

On reaching the scene they found six people up to their chests in water in the fast incoming tide, attempting to reach the shore. Three people, two adults and a child with a slight injury had made it back to Cramond. The RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat crew picked up the six people in the water and found another six people stranded on the Island.

The six children and six adults including a family from Hungary were taken aboard the Lifeboat and landed safely at Cramond. An ambulance was in attendance to treat the injured child, and one woman with a suspected sprained ankle. The Cramond Bistro opened its doors to assist the adults and children rescued from the freezing waters of the Forth.

The advice given to anyone is check the tide tables before setting off and if trapped by the fast incoming tide, stay on the Island and call for assistance as it is extremely dangerous to attempt to wade ashore as the water rises very quickly.