Rachael Hamilton MSP is the Scottish Conservatives spokesperson on rural affairs and she was at the Royal Highland Show to launch the party’s rural manifesto.

Ms Hamilton said The Scottish Government have “repeatedly let Scotland’s farmers, crofters and agriculture sector down” during their 17 years in office and that only the Scottish Conservatives are on their side.

Other measures to support farmers in the rural manifesto include:

• Supporting an increase of the UK-wide farming budget by £1 billion over the course of the next Parliament
• Giving Scottish farmers the green light to use game-changing gene editing technology
• Introducing a Young Person’s Agri-Enterprise Fund to support new entrants into the sector
• Tackle rural crime with a Rural Theft Bill

The rural manifesto also pledges to deliver a ‘Rural Charter’ to enshrine in law the rights of rural and coastal communities when it comes to policy making.

The Scottish Conservatives would also reverse the planned closure of Visitor Information Centres across the country, while they would support rural healthcare services through a new funding formula that considers the issues they face.

Funding to help provide new health care facilities could be sought from housing developers under new planning rules. 

The change could break the deadlock facing communities across Scotland where thousands of people have trouble seeing a GP or accessing primary health care. 

While there’s a national shortage of GPs, the main problem facing towns and villages in West Lothian is cramped and crumbling surgeries and health centres. 

West Lothian Council’s Economy, Community Empowerment and Wealth Building PDSP heard that planning officers are in early discussions with counterparts in NHS Lothian looking at ways to take new policies forward. 

A council spokesman confirmed that the council has no powers  to seek developer funding but could have under a new local development plan as part of the new national planning framework – known as NPF4. 

The spokesman told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “As part of the preparation of the next Local Development Plan, the council is examining the potential for seeking contributions from developers towards healthcare infrastructure, primarily primary care infrastructure.  

“The council continues to work with NHS Lothian to demonstrate a robust evidence base to secure developer funding for primary care infrastructure investment. Currently there is no mechanism to allow the council to seek developer contributions for health services.” 

Such contributions could come on top of the existing  Section 75 contributions which pay for education facilities and roads infrastructure on the back of new housing development.  A recent example is a £9m extension to West Calder High School which is being paid for by developer funding. 

A report to the PDSP said: “National Planning Framework 4 (NPF 4), requires planning authorities to address the following matters relating to health:  Tackling health inequalities, particularly in places which are experiencing the most disadvantage; Identify the health and social care services and infrastructure needed in the local authority area; and create healthier places.” 

One councillor had already suggested seeking  developer funding to solve the problem at East Calder, which has seen a 20 year campaign  for an improved  health care centre. 

The problem there has been exacerbated in the village because of the huge Core Development Area housing site at Calderwood which will double the size of the village. 

The building was built in the 1970s to support 5,000 patients. The current  patient list is almost 15,000 and the forecast is that the numbers will grow by a further 5,000 by 2028.  

At a recent meeting of the Integration Joint Board (IJB) which oversees primary and social care joint operations between NHS Lothian and West Lothian Council, cross party councillors and voting members backed a letter to the Scottish Government ministers calling for action. 

East Calder Conservative Damina Doran-Timson added a suggestion that the IJB consult with West Lothian Council on whether Section 75 funding from developers could go towards improving health facilities in East Calder. 

 The IJB wrote to ministers protesting that spending on NHS capital projects have been stalled for at least two years. There are also problems with practices struggling with growing patient numbers in growth areas around Livingston, Bathgate, Armadale and Blackridge. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Three first editions sold for almost £100,000 at Lyon & Turnbull’s Rare Book, Manuscripts, Maps & Photographs auction yesterday (Wednesday 19 June). 

An exceptionally rare hardback first edition of J.K. Rowling’s debut novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone went for £45,201. 

Rowling’s first book in her bestselling series about a boy wizard was famously written in Edinburgh when the author was a hard-up single mother.  

Much of the novel was written in a local cafe as the author’s baby slept. 

Only 500 first edition hardcovers were printed in 1997 thanks to publisher Bloomsbury’s uncertainty about whether or not the book would prove popular. It went on to sell more than 120 million copies, making it one of the bestselling books in history.  

According to Cathy Marsden, Head of Books & Manuscripts at Lyon & Turnbull, around 300 copies were said to have gone to public libraries. “They were much read and are often found to be in fairly tired condition if they have survived at all. A further 200 copies were sold through retailers.” 

In the same auction, a signed first edition of Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale, published in 1952 and the first novel in his bestselling James Bond series, sold for £38,951. 

Fleming’s inscription, which contains a grammatical error, was to his friend and boss at Kemsley Newspapers (owner of the Sunday Times), Ion Smeaton Munro (1883-1970). 

Munro, who was of Scottish origin, was a much-decorated army officer who served in both world wars. 

The inscription reads: To I.S.M, who’s [sic] staunch keeping of the night watches freed the author for this extra-mural opus, Ian Fleming, April 1953. 

A copy of A.A. Milne’s When We Were Very Young, which features the first ever appearance of Milne’s much-loved bear, Winnie-the-Pooh, also sold for £15,120 in the sale. 

Ms Marsden added: “We are delighted with the results of today’s auction, which show the strength of modern first editions in today’s market.  

“Works by literary giants, such as Ian Fleming and J.K. Rowling, continue to prove very popular at auction and I hope that these books are much enjoyed and treasured in their new homes.” 

A 72-year-old man reported missing from Edinburgh has been traced according to police. 

Officers issued an appeal last night to hep find Gary Hardie, who had been last seen in the Mountcastle Loan area of Edinburgh around 6.20pm on Wednesday, 19 June, 2024. 

Earlier today police thanked the public for sharing their appeal. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “72-year-old Gary Hardie missing from Edinburgh has been traced. 

“Thanks for the likes and shares.” 

The 2024 Royal Highland Show is underway and expecting to welcome around 220,000 people through the gates over the next few days.

Here is a gallery of photos of animals, tractors (some very big ones) and the people at the show which will be added to during the day.
This is a big business event with around £500 million of business deals entered into over the duration of the agricultural showcase which has something for everyone.

Andrea Geile’s exhibition Amongst the Trees, at The Scottish Gallery on Dundas Street will celebrate the long-awaited turn of the seasons with the Summer Solstice on Thursday 20 June.

The exhibition is set up within The Scottish Gallery’s gardens with Geile’s man-made trees.

The trees are contrasted against the soft foliage and flora, and Geile’s striking work evokes an industrial style, using Corten steel to create standing sculptures that are free to walk through and explore.

Hardened bronze steel interacts with the moving conditions to look at the relationship between the two environments when they are so often pressed together.

The exhibition runs until 27 July.

All photos courtesy of Brian Anderson

All photos courtesy of Brian Anderson

Edinburgh International Book Festival – tickets go on sale today at 10am

The first day when tickets for the Book Festival go on sale is always busy and EIBF have produced guidelines to help anyone trying to get their choices.

1. Make sure to register for an account at edbookfest.co.uk 

2. There will be a queuing system on the website on opening day – this is usually the busiest day. The queue will open at 10am.

3. Log in to your account at edbookfest.co.uk before booking opens at 10am

4. Once you are logged in, the “Join the Queue” button will appear automatically when the countdown finishes at 10am. Click the “Join the Queue” button to secure your place in the queue.

5. Once you have clicked the button to join the queue, you don’t need to keep your browser open – you will get an email notification when you have joined the front of the queue and are able to book tickets.

6. Watch the How to Book  video on the EIBF YouTube channel for full details – or watch it below.

The Royal Highland Show opens today

Tickets are selling fast for the biggest event in the city this weekend. The Royal Highland Show is 240 years old this year and will be a meeting place where £500 million of business is carried out according to the organisers.

Jim Warnock, the Chair of The Royal Highland Show, explained the tender loving care given to the grass in the main ring. He said it is rested before the show and then well fed with fertiliser and they try to time the last fertiliser before the show at the optimum moment to get the really green effect. And it looks as though it has worked. He said this is one of the first things that people notice when they come to the show.

The magic machine is called an equivator which is used to pierce and allow the ground to aerate and drain. Mr Warnock said: “There are some big show-jumping classes in here during the week and they are quite particular that they want it just to be perfect. So we aim to please.”

Edinburgh Climate Festival 2024

This festival takes place on 29 June at The Meadows and organisers hope to inspire climate action in local communities.

Transport and Environment Committee

The council’s Transport and Environment Committee meets this morning at 10am. There is a shorter agenda than usual, we are told it is to accommodate the fact that the Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur, is a candidate in the upcoming General Election.

The papers and how to watch online – either live or as a recording are all here.

These papers include a lengthy deputation by Cargo Bike Movement which is facing a funding shortfall and which is hoping for some support from the council.

Their deputation states: “Cargo Bike Movement is facing a funding shortfall. We have reserves to meet payroll for current staff until 31 July 2024. All staff were put on notice of redundancy on 30 May 2024 as part of the board’s crisis management plan.
“We currently have a pending decision on a grant from Paths for All. The £200k funding it offers (of which £50k is match-funding) represents the best value for money for CEC to support Cargo Bike Movement.

“A plan if we miss out on funding
“If we are unsuccessful in our application to Paths for All and/or do not receive support from CEC we have a financial plan that will allow us to keep the organisation on life support until the end of the year, scale down our work, find suitable locations to store 2-4 cargo bikes.
“This plan protects our core food distribution work, while losing staff, closing the hub,
ending outreach work, selling bikes, curtailing bike lending, minimising mechanical support and slimming down broader public engagement work.
“We will however work to protect our core work supporting food banks and organisations
such as Refugee Community Kitchen, Empty Kitchens Full Hearts and Shrub Zero Waste
Co-Op, delivering food from supermarkets throughout the city every weekday evening. To date we’ve delivered 75 tonnes of food, saving 78 tonnes of CO2e from landfill waste.”

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The Friends of the George (FoTG), a group which is trying to get The Royal George Cinema reopened in Portobello, has appointed Glasgow-based architects, Loader Monteith, to lead a design team undertaking detailed feasibility work with the award of a grant from The Architectural Heritage Fund.

The work will enhance the in-depth commercial and operational assessment being undertaken by independent cinema consultants, Mustard Studios, whose work is being funded by a grant from the Scottish Land Fund.

Loader Monteith approached Stefanie Fischer, a leading cinema architect within the UK’s independent cinema sector to join their team as a subconsultant. Her expertise as a cinema architect complements the expertise of Loader Monteith Architects as conservation architects.

The appointment of the Loader Monteith led team is another step in the long running campaign by FoTG who have been working to save the art deco former cinema from demolition. With support from the community, FoTG hope to acquire and restore the C-listed building, and operate it as a cinema for the community. These latest commissions will develop and refine the group’s ambitious plans and will also include input from educational and film industry partners.

Mike Griffiths, Friends of the George Chair said: “We are delighted to be able to appoint such an expert team of professionals to develop and refine our proposals as we continue to point the way towards a positive future for The George not only in the heart of the community of Portobello, but more broadly, to play a role in the cinema sector in Scotland. The consultants we have working on this bring extensive expertise and experience to the project and will be led by a firm of architects with a burgeoning reputation for exciting contemporary architectural design, deployed to breathe new life into historic buildings. We’re extremely grateful for the financial support we have received from the Architectural Heritage Fund, the Scottish Land Fund and our benefactor Victoria Schwab.”

Iain King, Specialist Conservation Architect and Director at Loader Monteith: “We are pleased to have been selected as the lead architects, alongside our expert team of consultants, to support the Friends of The George in developing the proposal for the George Cinema. Despite the building currently being on the Buildings at Risk Register, it benefits from strong community support and the dedication of the Friends of The George, a group committed to preserving this Art Deco gem and restoring it as a sustainable, independent cinema. We look forward to collaborating with them on this important project.”

Last year, Friends of The George Limited had the cinema building formally valued by a firm of professional surveyors and made an offer to purchase it as a “restoring purchaser”, based on that valuation. Funds for purchase were very generously offered by benefactor, writer V.E Schwab.

This offer was rejected by the current owners of the building who have tried – and failed – twice in recent years to secure consent to substantially demolish The George and develop the site with luxury flats.

Most recently, last October, the owner tried to force Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to delist the building.  HES confirmed that the building continues to meet the criteria of special architectural and historic interest and so there will be no statutory change to the current ‘C’ listing designation.

Recent silent, community protests, independent of the FoTG group, have called on the current owner of the building to clear up the mess outside of the cinema and to address the continued neglect and dereliction of the building.

David Jacobsen is the Socialist Labour Party Genera Election candidate for Edinburgh North and Leith.

He has 20 years experience as a healthcare worker in the NHS and says he is committed to “a National Health Service available to all at the time of need, on demand and free of all charges – including prescriptions, dental care, and eye care”.

The Socialist Labour Party wants all NHS workers to receive wages and terms and conditions that reflect the social importance of their jobs.

Mr Jacobsen said: “Our objectives include the provision of NHS nursing homes free of charge for people who need them and care homes owned and operated by local authorities and not by private companies chosen by a centralised power controlled by the Scottish government.

“In February this year The Scottish Parliament passed the National Care Service Bill. This allows Scottish ministers to transfer social care responsibility from local authorities. This could include adult and children’s services as well as areas such as justice and social work. I urge consituents to stop the transfer of healthcare functions from the NHS to the new centralised National Care Service.”

The Royal Highland Show expects to welcome 217,000 or so visitors from today until Sunday. Already tickets for Friday and Saturday are sold out with higher sales recorded than previous years.

This is where you will find the biggest cattle shed in Europe for the next few days, with dairy cows and beef cattle all looking their best. There are 110 stands in the food hall of which a quarter are alcohol retailers ready to sell their wares. The Royal Highland main ring is looking fabulous and ready for the main event of the year.

While tradition remains at the heart of the Royal Highland Show, the event is far from conventional. Sitting alongside the traditional aspects including livestock competitions and parades – around 6,000 animals are brought to the Show over the four days – visitors can expect to see daredevil BMX riders Showing off their flips and tricks and be on the edge of their seats in the forestry arena as they are entertained by axe throwers, live chainsaw carving, and pole climbers.

The dedicated kid zone located in the Countryside Area will include live Sealpin Gundog and birds of prey flying demonstrations. The RHET Discovery Centre will also allow young visitors to turn their hand to milking Mabel the (fibreglass) cow and take part in honey tasting and candle making.

After the Show on Friday and Saturday, legendary country music promoters, Farmers Bash present the Royal Highland Hoolie which brings together some of the very best of Scotland and Ireland’s homegrown talent to the Royal Highland Centre. Eight live folk and country music acts will perform including headliners Tide Lines and Derek Ryan. Limited tickets are still available for the Hoolie which can be purchased from www.royalhighlandShow.org

David Tennant, Head of Show for RHASS, said: “We’ve officially sold out across two days! The site transforms into the sixth largest population in Scotland the week of the Show; effectively we transform the venue into a mini town which is no mean feat, but our dedicated team have been working around the clock over the last three and a half weeks to ensure visitors have the best experience possible when they visit us this weekend.

“Our traditional Show elements very much remain at the heart of the weekend, with the best of British livestock and equine competing but we also have so many unexpected and family-friendly activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. From music to BMX stunts, cookery displays, the farrier competition, sheep sheering and birds of prey and sheepdog demonstrations, there really is something for everyone.

“With large crowds anticipated, we are encouraging those travelling to the Show to consider using public transport whenever possible. The Show is located just minutes from the tram and dedicated Lothian buses will drop you right at the door of the event. We’re looking forward to welcoming this year’s Show-goers through the gates come Thursday.”

The Scottish Conservatives will publish their manifesto for rural Scotland on Thursday – which the party says has been “shamefully neglected” by the SNP Government.

Shadow rural affairs secretary Rachael Hamilton will launch the manifesto at The Royal Highland Show where she will highlight her party’s commitment to delivering a “new deal for farmers.”

She says The Scottish Government have “repeatedly let Scotland’s farmers, crofters and agriculture sector down” during their 17 years in office and that only the Scottish Conservatives are on their side.

Other measures to support farmers in the rural manifesto include:

• Supporting an increase of the UK-wide farming budget by £1 billion over the course of the next Parliament
• Giving Scottish farmers the green light to use game-changing gene editing technology
• Introducing a Young Person’s Agri-Enterprise Fund to support new entrants into the sector
• Tackle rural crime with a Rural Theft Bill

The rural manifesto also pledges to deliver a ‘Rural Charter’ to enshrine in law the rights of rural and coastal communities when it comes to policy making.

The Scottish Conservatives would also reverse the planned closure of Visitor Information Centres across the country, while they would support rural healthcare services through a new funding formula that considers the issues they face.

Scottish Conservative shadow rural affairs secretary Rachael Hamilton MSP said: “Rural Scotland has been shamefully neglected by a central-belt focused SNP Government over the last 17 years.

“Our dedicated rural manifesto clearly shows how we are the voice of these communities who feel abandoned by ministers in Holyrood.

“That feeling is particularly strong among our farming and agricultural communities. As they descend on the Royal Highland Show, I am delighted to outline our positive vision to support them going forward.

“From delivering a £1 billion increase in UK-wide farming, to allowing them to use gene-editing technology and backing new entrants into the sector, we are on their side. That’s in sharp contrast to the SNP who have repeatedly let Scotland’s farmers, crofters and agriculture workers down over their 17 years in office.

“Rural Scotland has so much potential but is being failed by nationalist representatives who are completely out-of-touch with their needs.

“Whilst the Bute House Agreement has come to an end, in all but name, John Swinney’s SNP Government are still working hand in glove with the extreme Greens who are a threat to rural livelihoods.

“In key seats up and down rural Scotland, if voters united behind the Scottish Conservatives on July 4^th, they can beat the SNP, end their independence obsession for good and ensure the focus is on the real priorities facing these communities.”

Police are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 72-year-old man missing from Edinburgh. 

Gary Hardie, was last seen in the Mountcastle Loan area of Edinburgh around 6.20pm on Wednesday, 19 June, 2024. 

He is described as being around 5ft 8in in height, of stocky build with white hair. When last seen he was wearing a beige jacket with a light brown leather collar, blue jeans and light brown loafers. 

He is known to frequent the Drylaw area of Edinburgh. 

Inspector Grant McCulloch said: “Gary is vulnerable and concerns are growing for his welfare. 

“Our enquiries are ongoing and I am appealing for anyone who has seen Gary or who has any information on his whereabouts to contact us.” 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 3505 of 19 June, 2024. 

Scotland’s first Biometrics in Criminal Justice conference took place in Edinburgh today, Wednesday 19 June. 

Hosted by the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner, Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority, experts discussed the use of biometric data and new technologies, underpinned by ethics and human rights. 

Chief Constable Jo Farrell, who spoke at the conference and joined a panel discussion, said: “Policing has a positive duty to use biometric data and new technology to safeguard the vulnerable and bring offenders to justice. 

“Today’s event is about building on the strong relationships and continuing a public conversation which explores the opportunities and challenges future technologies hold for policing and to ensure we maintain and develop the strong ethical basis for our use of biometric data.” 

Dr Brian Plastow, Scottish Biometrics Commissioner, said: “The purpose of today was to start a national conversation around the use of biometrics and show the important part it plays in policing and criminal justice, and not just from the point of view of identifying guilty people, but also for eliminating innocent people from police enquiries.  

“Biometric data plays an important part in keeping people safe, but also engages us in an important conversation about adopting new technology and human rights.” 

First Minister John Swinney met US Consul General, Jack Hillmeyer, who is leaving Edinburgh at the beginning of July to thank him for his three-year tenure, and the positive impact he has made on US-Scotland relations.

The First Minister said:“The relationship between Scotland and the USA is deep and strong. It is both our largest inward investor, and our largest international export destination.

“I would like to thank Jack and his team for their work supporting the US community in Scotland and enhancing the strong relations between our two countries.

“During Jack’s tenure, he has encouraged many visitors to come to Scotland – I wish him well for his next posting, and hope he will not be a stranger here.

“The Scottish Government is looking forward to working with the incoming Consul General to enhance our collaboration with the USA on areas of shared mutual interest, including climate, green energy, trade, culture and higher education.”

During his time here the Consul General inaugurated a tartan for the US Consulate and he continued the tradition of marking Presidents’ Day in January each year at the Old Calton Cemetery where there is a statue of Abraham Lincoln.

Demolition of the RAAC affected classrooms at St Kentigern’s Academy has now been completed. 

So far West Lothian Council has spent £7m on the major reconstruction project at the Blackburn high school. 

But with building work expected to start by February there has been no confirmation that the Scottish Government will contribute to the final bill of £35m. 

In an update to councillors  on the Executive this week officers said: “It should be noted that the current estimated cost of £35 million as an overall development cost is extremely challenging and officers are continuing to work very hard with the project team appointed through Hub South East and the Tier-1 contractor to maintain that position.  

“Discussions remain ongoing with the Scottish Government around funding support to deliver the works required at St Kentigern’s Academy. To date, no funding support has been confirmed.” 

Councillor Kirsteen Sullivan said: “Can I ask if any monies have been forthcoming as yet and if the Secretary for Education has agreed to visit the school to see the work that’s in progress?” 

Patrick Welsh the finance director responded: “In terms of funding from the Scottish Government I can confirm there has been no confirmation of additional funding. The council has provided updates to the Scottish Government on a regular basis in terms of progress with the project and the shortfall in funding but to this point there hasn’t been any additional funding.  

Dr Elaine Cook, the depute chief executive responsible for education said: “We’ve had nothing from the Scottish Government in terms of asking for another visit to St Kent’s”. 

Councillor Sullivan said: “I’d like to thank officers for their ongoing attempts to keep the situation at St Kent’s under the noses of the Scottish Government. It’s really disappointing that  they haven’t come forward with any financial support and haven’t shown any interest in visiting the school. I think that’s something that would be welcomed by the whole school community, the teachers, pupils and parents, and the wider community.” 

Demolition costs at St Kent’s totalled £730,000.More than 60% of the building  will be rebuilt. The £7m spent so far has gone on enabling works including the provision of temporary  class room spaces. 

The school has managed to maintain timetables; the major disruption has been in PE, where children have to be bussed to alternative sports venues – and in the lack of a large assembly area used for exams timetables. However the school has worked with other council venues to provide suitable exam space. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Hibs defender Kyle McClelland has joined Coleraine FC on loan. 

The 22-year-old will join the NIFL (Northern Ireland Football League) Premiership side for the 2024/25 campaign. 
  
Coleraine are managed by former Hibs midfielder Dean Shiels, and  finished sixth in the Northern Irish top-flight last season. 

The loan provides McClelland with further senior experience having spent last season with Queen of the South in the Scottish League 1, where he made 37 appearances in all competitions.  

The young centre-half has also had a loan spell at Cove Rangers in the second-tier of Scottish football. 
  
On the loan move, Hibs Sporting Director Malky Mackay commented: “This is a further opportunity for Kyle to gain regular experience of senior football. 
  
“Moving to Northern Ireland and competing in a new league will give Kyle different tests and will provide him with a good platform to work on his game. We look forward to seeing how he progresses.” 

Shiels, who played for both Rangers and Hibs, feels McClelland’s quality will shine through. 

He said: “We are very pleased to welcome Kyle to the club,” said Shiels. “For his age, he seems to be well above his years. In and out of possession he’s very comfortable.

“He came through the academy system at Rangers, his coaches speak really highly of him. Hibernian were delighted to get him and signed him on a long term deal.

“I want to thank David Gray, the head coach at Hibs for being so accommodating with this loan of Kyle. I think he’s going to thrive with his quality” 

Expressing his enthusiasm for the move, McClelland stated, “This is a big step in my career, I think this move is going to make me a better man overall and give me as much experience as I can get.

“I had a good phone call with the gaffer, everything he told me about the club and their expectations and where he wanted the club to go. Everything he said was a big part of why I wanted to come here. Just buzzing to get started to be honest with you.”

Four men have been taken to hospital following an incident at a building site near the Meadows in Edinburgh. 

Emergency services were alerted to the incident on Rillbank Crescent shortly after 11am today Wednesday, June 19. 

Four ambulances, two special operations response teams (SORT), and a critical care paramedic were dispatched to the scene along with police officers and firefighters. 

The Health and Safety Executive have been notified. 

A spokesperson for the Scottish Ambulance Service said: “We received a call at 11:01 to attend an incident on Rillbank Crescent, Edinburgh. 

“Four ambulances, two special operations response teams (SORT), and a critical care paramedic were dispatched to the scene.  

“Four patients were transported to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.” 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 11.05am on Wednesday, 19 June, 2023, we were called to a report of four men injured at a building site in Rillbank Crescent, Edinburgh. 

“Emergency services are in attendance and the four men have been taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Health and Safety Executive has been notified.” 

Hundreds of blue badges in Midlothian were registered with dead people, it has been discovered, costing the council an estimated £202,000 in lost revenue. 

A report on fraud investigations carried out in the county has revealed 311 badges were discovered to have not been cancelled following the death of its holder. 

It said each badge cancelled was equal to £650 in lost parking and potential congestion charge revenue – totalling £202, 150. 

The report revealed the results of Midlothian using the National Fraud Initiative (NFI) to review services last year where its data is compared to national lists to compare and flag up any inconsistencies. 

As well as identifying the dead blue badge holders the results also uncovered 45 ‘errors’ on the housing waiting list which saw names taken off it at an estimated saving of £192,000. 

A report due to go before the council’s audit and governance committee next week revealed that as well as the savings through using the NFI to review 2022/23 services, a further £837,000 in estimated saving had been identified as a result of the council’s own counter fraud activity in the last financial year. 

It said a review of 46 allegations of potential tenancy fraud saw five houses returned to council stock and made available to those “in genuine need’ of social housing. 

And it revealed an investigation into people receiving council tax discounts and referrals saw the removal of one single person discount. 

The report said: “In conclusion, the corporate fraud team in collaboration with other services has been successful in delivering the range of activity set out in the Counter Fraud Annual Plan. Tackling fraud is an ongoing process.” 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Almost half of West Lothian’s communities had no council property to let in the first three months of the year. 

Councillors heard that there were no lets available in 20 of 49 communities in the county between January and April. 

However the number of lets was slightly up on the same period last year and the bulk of the council homes , 111 or 63%, went to homeless people. 

 The Housing Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel heard that the number of permanent lets for the period 1 January to 31 March was 176. compared to the same quarter last year when 152 properties were let.  

This increase in available lets is a result of there being more properties repaired and made available for letting. 

The communities with the highest percentage of total lets were Blackburn and Whitburn with 20 lets each; Armadale with 17 lets and Fauldhouse with 12 lets . 

Four communities had one mainstream property available to let – Philpstoun, Winchburgh, Breich and Longridge. 

Eleven communities had between two and four properties available to let – Bridgend, Linlithgow, Eliburn, East Calder, Mid Calder, Pumpherston, Uphall Station, Addiewell, Stoneyburn, West Calder and Blackridge.  

There were six sheltered housing properties let in the quarter. 

Of the 20 communities with no lets, the bulk were in Livingston neighbourhoods- Craigshill, Alderstone, Livingston Village, Bellsquarry, Kirkton, Howden and  Murieston. Other communities with no lets were small villages across the county from Linlithgow Bridge in the east to Greenrigg  on the western border. 

In a report to the committee Sarah Kelly, Housing Needs Manager said: “The report highlights that there has been an increase in available lets when compared to the same quarter of 2022/23 and that there continues to be some communities where there is no movement in vacant properties at all.” 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Parents of older children in East Lothian have been urged to ensure they know where they are during the summer holiday by the local police chief, amid concerns over anti-social behaviour in the county. 

Chief Inspector Ben Leathes has issued a letter to parents of secondary school pupils across the county asking them to be vigilant. 

The letter, which is also signed by Scottish Fire’s local area liaison officer Steven Tilton and East Lothian Council’s Kenneth Black,  says a series of recent incidents have raised concerns as the school close for the summer break. 

It says: “At times last year various issues of anti-social behaviour developed around the county which were linked to young people behaving irresponsibly through the school holidays. 

“We appreciate the overwhelming majority of young people behave in a respectful and law-abiding manner however, unfortunately there were a minority who were involved in criminal and antisocial behaviour which portrayed a negative image of the areas concerned and caused suffering and inconvenience for people who live and work there. 

“East Lothian Police, Council, Fire and Rescue Service and wider partners want to ensure that this does not happen and that the county is a safe and enjoyable area for all to use during the summer. 

“We are therefore encouraging all those who have young people to ensure they behave responsibly by checking where they are going and what they are doing and more especially that they are not in possession of alcohol.” 

Chief Inspector Leathes first mentioned the plans to send out the letter at a meeting of East Lothian Police, Fire and Community Safety committee last week. 

He told the meeting that additional police patrols and mobile CCTV was being brought in over the summer with a focus on Musselburgh where there had been issues with young people including three boys aged 13 and 14 involved in fire-raising and shoplifting at the local supermarket. 

In Haddington social media was filled with reports of problems involving a group of teenager, mainly girls, in the town’s shops and High Street last week. 

One irate member of a Facebook page posted photographs of youngsters who were alleged to have been shop lifting and hurling ‘foul-mouthed’ abuse at people at the local Tesco store. 

Others reported incidents at other shops in the centre of town claiming police had been looking for a gang of girls. 

The letter to parents asks them to share its content with their children. 

It says: “Our aim is to make East Lothian as attractive and safe to both residents and visitors and we ask you to share the contents of this letter with your child / young person to ensure they are not involved in any antisocial or criminal behaviour, highlighting their own personal responsibility for their actions. 

“We do again acknowledge that the majority of young people behave responsibly, respecting the community and environment and it is hoped by having this conversation you can reinforce the importance of being a responsible young citizen, keeping yourself safe and respecting others.” 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

One of the candidates for the Edinburgh North and Leith consitituencey is Niel Neepnarain who represents the Scottish Family Party – Defending Traditional Values.

He writes: “It’s an honour to stand for Edinburgh North and Leith in these General Elections, I want to represent your views. I will work hard to earn the trust of people, creating positive relationships. I will act on what i say. Together we can forge a better community and make Edinburgh North and Leith an even more wonderful place to live.

“Issues I would fight for – more active policing for safer streets. Good education for all. Look at ways to deal with the local housing issues. Ways to help with the cost of living crisis.  The council needs to step in and help with the alcohol and drug abuse i will work hard on this – will work along side community centres. We need to attract more investment into businesses.

“Let’s resource youth centres properly to help with well-being and life skills, get new ones started. Let’s get creative in converting abandoned buildings and railways into great facilities that meet local needs.  The roads are a mess in Edinburgh and it’s time to get this sorted and make it safe for all. We need a crackdown on dog fouling. We need an end to overflowing street bins and let’s make a difference for those unable to work and whom are out of work.

“There is so much to get done and I know I can make that difference for us, we need each other and we need to stand together for the good of our city and nation. I don’t just talk I will work and make that difference.

“I find it a privilege and honour to be part of the Scottish Family Party as we are standing for truth, we keep to our promises and really want to see a change for people and the good of our Scotland.

“We will always stand for the core principles of promoting our policies as the best foundation for a stable nation.”

Californian Amanda Grimm is already involved with the Scottish Greens as she works in parliament as a researcher for Ariane Burgess MSP.

She outlined that it is time for real change at Westminster. She said: “The UK is the sixth wealthiest country in the world, but for too many it doesn’t feel that way. Decades of Tory governments have worsened inequality and brought our public sector to its knees. Labour promises little change, refusing to cap bankers’ bonuses or bring in wealth taxes. The SNP council tax freeze means less local services for communities in Scotland. 

“Different choices are possible. The Scottish Greens stand for greener, fairer policies that make life better for the majority and protect our shared planet, instead of concentrating wealth and power at the very top.”

Amanda explained her reasons for stepping up as a candidate. She said: “I’m standing for Westminster because I feel like I can’t sit back and watch as the bigger parties, give up on their climate commitments and devastate our public services and continue with business as usual. I want to get Green ideas, values and policies onto the agenda and into the inbox of the incoming UK Government. Only the Scottish Greens are saying we’re adamantly opposed to new oil and gas and a 100% renewable energy transition. And that’s what we want to see.”

She believes that as the local candidate she has an edge in the area. She said: “I live in Musselburgh. I’m quite embedded in the community now. I’ve been there for two years, and I’ve joined lots of local groups like Sustaining Musselburgh, Yes Musselburgh, and Musselburgh Street Clean. I’m a longtime campaigner on climate change and social justice. Since I moved to Edinburgh in 2007, and went to University of Edinburgh here. Before that, I grew up in California, where I was a professional ballet dancer. And then I worked in the arts and culture in Edinburgh, before getting more into politics. Now I work for a Green MSP in The Scottish Parliament so I think I’ve developed a lot of skills and political nouse and knowledge of policy that I can bring to this role.”

The Edinburgh Reporter asked if she thought the SNP representation of the area had been wanting in any respects during the last 10 years.

She was quite clear that the SNP have in her view been less than successful. She said: “The SNP you know, they’re known by some as a party of sort of social democracy, but they’re not really anymore, and they haven’t been able to change Westminster in that regard. They haven’t been able to secure their main objective, which is independence for Scotland – of course, the Greens support that as well.

“But now we’re trying to take a more realistic tack in calling for full devolution of remaining powers from Westminster. So my priorities are number one action on the climate emergency. We know that many voters want a government that takes it seriously and takes care of people and planet. Another key priority is helping people with the cost of living crisis and actually helping them rise out of poverty for good – not just keep them on the poverty line, as the Tories are doing with more benefit cuts in order to fund tax cuts for the rich.

“And third, we want to create a fairer economy that works for people and planet by bringing in a wealth tax on the richest 1% using that to raise £75 billion in revenue to be invested in public services, the green transition and help with the cost of living crisis.”

The Royal Highland Show 2024

The Royal Highland Show opens on Thursday and runs until Sunday at Ingliston.

There will be more than 800 exhibitors displaying their goods on the 110-acre site.

There are cookery demonstrations with some of the country’s top chefs including Head Chef at The Globe Inn, Fraser Cameron, FutureChef Winner, Phoebe Lawson, and Head Chef at Benugo, Emma Clark-Szabo.

Johnnie Walker are putting on a pop up bar and Innis & Gunn will host guests at their Taproom Bar.

Shopping is varied with clothing, shoes, crafts, gifts, pet supplies, art, toys and a range of premium shopping outlets which can be found at the Countryside Village.

There will be music during the day on the West Stage and on Friday night Tide Lines will appear at the Royal Highland Hoolie.

Children go free at the show with many activities linked to food production and farming.

Circa Alba’s exciting mix of movement and circus skills, including juggling, parkour, capoeira, along with professional face painting and Annie the alpaca and her family from the Alpacas Trekking Centre, will let little imaginations soar. Dive into abstract art where kids can engage in animal-themed arts and crafts, creating personalised keepsakes to take home.  

Oh and there are also many things for farmers to see and do.

David Tennant, Head of Royal Highland Show, said: “This year’s Royal Highland Show is bigger and better than ever and it’s all thanks to the wide variety of exhibitors. The diverse array of trade stands is a true celebration of everything Scotland has to offer in agricultural heritage, artisan crafts and rural communities. We are on track for a sold-out show, so if you’d like to experience a mix of entertainment, sample Scotland’s wonderful larder and see the very best in livestock, from the traditional to the unexpected, it’s worth purchasing your tickets now. It’s not to be missed!”

Get to the show on the tram or by bus. A shuttle bus will run from the Ingliston Park and Ride to the East entrance every 15 minutes between 7am and 9pm.   There is taxi drop off and pick up point at the East entrance and accessible car parks for those driving at the East and West entrances. Advanced Mobility are located at both the East and West entrances and a Quiet Place next to the welfare tent will be available for those who may require time out from the busy event.https://www.royalhighlandshow.org/visitors/accessibility-at-the-royal-highland-show/

Public Rally

There will be a public rally against racism in the election at the Mound on 21 June. The speaker will be Tommy Sheppard the SNP candidate for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh.

Sea Rising Festival

Porty Community Energy will bring together 10 bands, three exhibitions, 10 local makers, 10 local climate organisations, trials of unusual bikes, five workshops, children’s activities and a puppet show on the beach and prom near the bottom of Kings Road.

The theme is Low Carbon Transport and local Climate Action, and the festival takes place on Saturday 22 June in Portobello between 1 and 6pm.

To illustrate the dangers of climate change and the effect it could have on our seaside towns the artists will perform climate themed songs and there will be two stages – one a Landlubbers’ stage which is “dry” and the other, the Selkies Sea Stage where the Earth in Common Choir will perform at High Tide.

More information here

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme

Some private gardens are open to the public and this weekend it is the turn of gardens in Edinburgh.

The garden trail runs between Logie Green Gardens EH7 4HE and Royal Circus Gardens North EH3 6TN. Visit some of the surprising horticultural delights behind the terraces of Stockbridge/New Town and relax in a classic Georgian leisure garden.

Bringing fresh air and wildlife into the heart of the city, the collection provides many creative solutions to urban gardening with year-round interest through a mix of seasonal planting and structural evergreens which the gardeners will be on hand to talk about.

More information about the weekend events here.

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Tracy Gilbert is the Scottish Labour Candidate for Edinburgh North and Leith.

As the Scottish Regional Secretary for the trade union USDAW, she represents more than 37,000 retail and distribution workers in Scotland.

She said: “I grew up in a mining town in Midlothian during the 80s, I saw how politics impacted on my family and our community. I thought things would never be that bad again, but I was wrong. That’s why I decided to stand for election as far too many people living in Edinburgh North and Leith are being left behind, and I want to deliver a better future for my community because we deserve better”.

Tracy, who lives in Leith, also has a wealth of experience in advocacy work in her current role but also from her previous work in housing and in various voluntary roles. 

“Edinburgh is a wonderful city with thriving businesses and world class arts, hospitality and retail. However, Edinburgh is a tale of two cities. Every day I speak to people working hard to make ends meet, to pay the bills, to heat their homes, that’s if they can get a home to begin with. For far too many people work doesn’t pay and so many families are struggling.”

Scots will be holding their breaths tonight when the Scotland team kick off against Switzerland at Cologne Stadium at 9pm local time.

After the awful result on Friday when the team were routed by Germany 5-1, fans are hoping for something much better tonight.

Ryan Porteous was given a red card during the match reducing the team to ten men and will be unavailable on Wednesday as he has been given a two match suspension.

The match will be broadcast live on BBC One beginning from 7.30pm with presenter Gabby Logan, and commentary from Steve Bower and James McFadden.

Fans in Edinburgh include these wee dogs who are all right behind the team tonight hoping for a great result. No Scotland No Party!

The Scottish Green manifesto will, as expected, confirm the position that the party has stated previously on the monarchy and the constitution.

The party supports a written constitution and an independent Scottish Republic with an elected head of state.

Mr Harvie will tell a campaign event in Edinburgh on Wednesday that he wants Scotland to have the powers to hold a referendum on our constitutional future and establish a modern democratic republic.

Mr Harvie said: “The monarchy is a badly outdated and fundamentally undemocratic institution. It represents a different era and feels increasingly irrelevant and ridiculous in the 21st century.

“Yet, in a matter of weeks the full pomp and pageantry of Monarchy will be on display when the King does the state opening for a new government.

“We should be able to challenge power and elect or remove our head of state through the ballot box, like most countries do.

“We need a written constitution, drawn up by the people to entrench our rights and our democracy and to avoid the kind of power grabs and stunts that we have seen from Westminster.

“The Scottish Greens are the only party that is calling for an independent Scottish republic where power lies with the people rather than being handed down like a family heirloom.

“There are countries all across the Commonwealth who are asking questions about the way they are ruled and who are reconsidering their relationship with Monarchy. Scotland must have the chance to do the same.”

Police are appealing for information after an 83-year-old female pedestrian was seriously injured in a crash in the Colinton area of Edinburgh. 

The crash involving a red Vauxhall Corsa, happened on Woodhall Road, Edinburgh at the junction with Dreghorn Loan shortly after 3.44pm on Tuesday, 18 June, 2024. 

The 47-year-old female driver of the Vauxhall was not injured. 

The 83-year-old woman was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. 

The road was closed to allow for crash investigations to take place. 

Enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances and officers are appealing for witnesses. 

Road Policing Sergeant Fraser Mitchell said: “Our investigation into this crash is ongoing and I would urge anyone who has information to get in touch. 

“We would be keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the crash or saw the red Vauxhall before the crash occurred. If anyone has any dashcam footage from the area, please let us know.” 

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2168 of 18 June, 2024. 

The Sea Rising Festival will take place on Saturday 22 June in Portobello between 1pm and 6pm.

This is a community organised event led by Porty Community Energy bringing together 10 bands, three exhibitions, 10 local makers, 10 local climate organisations, trials of unusual bikes, five workshops, activities for children including a puppet show on the beach and prom near King’s Road.

The event is themed on Low Carbon Transport and local Climate Action, and is deliberately being held near to the Summer Solstice when there is a full moon and a high spring tide.

To show clearly how the coastline would be affected by rising seal levels there will be two stages for musicians and performers – and one of these will flood at high tide.

The organisers are adamant that everyone must move away from routine, short-term, unsustainable travel. Edinburgh has many local festivals which they believe “nourish communities” and pose the question whether the larger festivals inspire or smother the smaller events.

A festival spokesperson said: “At the Sea Rising Festival we’re trying our best to make choices as sustainable as possible – thinking about how our contributors travel to the festival, supporting local suppliers, not using diesel generators, plant based food and of course the themes and messages that our artists bring with them.” 

More information here.

A Crowdfunder is open for the festival here:

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/sea-rising-festival-2024

A woman has been taken to hospital following a crash on Woodhall Road this afternoon, Tuesday 18^th June 2024. 

The collision involving a car and female pedestrian took place at 3.45pm. 

The road was closed and officers advised drivers to avoid the area. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Woodhall Road is closed due to a road crash involving a car and a female pedestrian at the junction with Bridge Street. 

“Emergency services were called around 3.45pm and the woman has been taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. 

“Members of the public are being advised to avoid the area.” 

Work has begun on a £7.7million project to deliver a range of affordable homes forming a key portion of a popular East Lothian development.

The 38 homes will be built by Cala Homes (East) as part of its Saltcoats Grange development in Gullane and on completion it will become one of the first affordable housing developments in the region to feature full provision of air source heat pumps (ASHP).

Designed to blend in with the wider development, the high specification homes will also feature energy-efficient building materials.

Once complete, Cala will hand the properties to registered social landlord, Places for People Scotland, which is designating 26 homes as available for social rent and a further 12 for mid-market rent.

A wide mix of homes is being provided at the site, including one to three bedroom apartments, cottage flats, semi-detached and terraced homes.

Derek Lawson, Strategic Land Director with Cala Homes (East), said: “This is our largest affordable housing project in Gullane over a nearly 10-year programme of building.

“Being able to start work on these homes takes increased significance given the current housing emergency and the shortfall of quality homes for social and mid-market rent.

“The air source heat pumps will bring meaningful benefit to the people that live here, complementing the wider energy-saving features of the homes and at a much lower carbon cost compared to a gas boiler.

“We look forward to working with Places for People Scotland and ensuring the 38 families that will move in can benefit from excellent, efficient homes.”

ASHP are a low carbon heating system for water and heating that uses the same technology in fridges and freezers, in reverse. Heat from outside air is gathered and absorbed into a loop with refrigerant fluid, compressing the air to create heat.

By using an ASHP instead of a gas boiler to provide heat for the homes, operational carbon emissions are reduced by around 80%. If the occupants choose to use a green tariff the operation of the system will be zero carbon.

Cala anticipates completing work to allow for full occupation by late 2025, at which point it will have delivered 85 affordable homes to Gullane in recent years, steering projects through planning and construction to the handover to families.

David Brotherston, Senior Development Manager at Places for People, said: “We are delighted to be working with Cala to provide 38 new homes in Gullane particularly at a time when there is a huge need for high quality, warm and affordable homes to meet the requirements of those with the greatest need.”

Saltcoats Grange is a continuation of Cala’s successful delivery of homes in Gullane, a period of investment that included the sensitive refurbishment of the landmark Henderson House, the former Scottish Fire and Rescue College.

The delivery of affordable homes at Saltcoats Grange is being supported by Scottish Government funding.