Bewick Jewson Bandits skipper Rory Schlein was left with shoulder and rib injuries after a Heat 5 crash in a big defeat at in-form Scunthorpe Scorpions.

The Aussie racer was transferred to hospital and his team-mates found themselves on the wrong end of home heat advantages in all but three races.

Scorpions move to the top of the Cab Direct Championship after picking up all five points from Berwick in six days. The result on Friday was Scorpions 62, Bandits 28.

It was a disappointing away display for Berwick was compounded by a heat five crash which left skipper Rory Schlein nursing shoulder and rib injuries.

Stewart Dickson, Berwick’s team manager, saw Lewis Kerr return from injury but that was overshadowed by the injury to Schlein who a Bandits spokesman said will be struggling to play any part in the Bandits’ remaining league fixtures.

Bandits have now slipped out of the last play-off spot and the trip to Plymouth Gladiators on Tuesday takes on extra significance with Jye Etheridge due to return but guests are now required to cover for Schlein (pictured) and crocked Bastian Borke.

Scorpions: Kyle Howarth 18, rider replacement for Michael Palm Toft, Simon Lambert 10+1, Connor Mountain 8+2, Jake Allen 14+2, Nathan Ablitt 5+1, Luke Harrison 7+2

Bandits: Lewi Kerr 9, Danyon Hume 2, Dan Gilkes 3, Drew Kemp 8+2, Freddy Hodder 1, Paul Starke 3

Stellar Monarchs claimed their first win in the Cab Direct Championship this season, taking the lead in Heat 3 and were never behind but never more than four points ahead.

The home side held their nerve in Heats 13 and 15 against the powerful duo of Sam Masters, a former Monarchs skipper, and British star Scott Nicholls, to take the points with a 46-44 win.

Last heat hero was Josh Pickering (pictured) with a last to first burst, but full credit also to Justin Sedgmen who made the start in that finale and prevented Masters and Nicholls getting ahead for what might have been a match-winning 5-1.

Alex Harkess, Monarchs’ team manager, said: “A bit too tight for my liking, though it was always going to be tight. I was certainly happy with the determination the team showed, throughout the side from 1 to 7.

“Paco Castagna kept his excellent form going, Kye Thomson and Lasse Fredriksen won heats when it mattered, and Sedgy (Justin Sedgmen) played a full part in that last race, an incredible ride by Josh.”

Edinburgh Monarchs (46): Josh Pickering 11+0, Lasse Fredriksen 5+1, Kye Thomson 5+1, Paco Castagna 10+0, Justin Sedgmen 9+0, Max Perry 1+1, Connor Coles 5+1

Oxford Cheetahs (44): Sam Masters 13+1, Luke Killeen 2+0, Jordan Jenkins 4+2, Cameron Heeps 8+0, Scott Nicholls 11+0, Jacob Hook 6+1, Jody Scott 0+0

The deadline for standing as a candidate in the General Election 2024 was 4pm on Friday and this is the official list of candidates in Edinburgh.

If your name is below then we want to talk to you – you will be given one minute to explain what you will do for constituents if you are elected as MP.

Otherwise you are free to send us your statement here.

Edinburgh East and Musselburgh

• Scottish Liberal Democrats – DUNDAS, Charles
• Independent – GOULD, Jane Mackenzie
• Scottish Greens – GRIMM, Amanda Faye
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – MUNRO, Marie-Clair
• Scottish Labour Party – MURRAY, Chris
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – SHEPPARD, Tommy
• Reform UK – WINTON, Derek Steven

Edinburgh North and Leith

• Scottish Liberal Democrats – ANDERSEN, Mike
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – BROCK, Deidre
• Scottish Family Party – Defending Traditional Values – DEEPNARAIN, Niel
• Scottish Labour Party – GILBERT, Tracy
• Socialist Labour Party – JACOBSEN, David Don
• Reform UK – MELVILLE, Alan Gordon
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – MOWAT, Joanna
• Scottish Greens – O’NEILL, Kayleigh Ferguson
• Communist Party of Britain – SHILLCOCK, Richard Charles
• Independent – WATERLOO, Caroline

Edinburgh South

• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – COWDY, Christopher
• Scottish Family Party – Promoting Traditional Values – HOLDEN, Phil
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – KUMAR, Simita
• Alba Party: Yes to Scottish Independence – LYON, Lynne
• Independent – MARTIN, Alex
• Scottish Labour Party – MURRAY, Ian
• Scottish Greens – PHILLIPS, JO
• Reform UK – ROSE, Cameron
• Independent – ROWBOTHAM, Mark
• Scottish Liberal Democrats – WILLIAMSON, Andy

Edinburgh South West

• Scottish Labour Party – ARTHUR, Scott
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – CHERRY, Joanna
• Reform UK – HARPER, Ian
• Scottish Greens – HEAP, Dan
• Scottish Family Party – LUCAS, Richard Crewe
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – WEBBER, Sue
• Independent – WILKINSON, Marc Richard
• Scottish Liberal Democrats – WILSON, Bruce Roy

Edinburgh West

• Scottish Labour Party – DAVIDSON, Michael Colin
• Independent – HENRY, David
• Independent – HORNIG, Nick
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – HYSLOP, Euan
• Reform UK – INGLIS, Otto
• Scottish Liberal Democrats – JARDINE, Christine Anne
• Scottish Libertarian Party – LAIRD, Tam
• Scottish Greens – PUCHOWSKI, James Konrad
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – SHIELDS, Alastair

Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Andrew Kerr said: “Today marks one step closer to the Capital going to the polls, and we now crucially know who our residents will have the opportunity to vote for on 4 July.

“We want everyone to be able to exercise their democratic right and vote in this General Election. Due to its timing, we’re expecting increased demand for postal and proxy votes and I’d encourage everyone to make the appropriate arrangements as soon as possible – whether that’s registering to vote, applying for different ways to vote or ensuring they have the correct photo ID.

“I want to thank our colleagues who are working hard to ensure this election runs smoothly and efficiently for the people of Edinburgh.”

Detailed advice on registering to vote, the use of postal and proxy votes and other guidance is available on the Council’s website.

This is the first General Election where voters must show a form of photo identification (ID) to cast their ballot. A list of approved forms of ID and information on how to obtain a free voter ID are also available on the website.

Residents in East Lothian who missed the deadline to sign up to a new garden waste bin collection will be given a second chance later this summer. 

East Lothian Council scraps its free garden bin service at the end of this month with an annual fee of £35 for people who want to continue using it. 

The local authority said the ‘vast majority’ of users of the brown bins had already signed up for a permit with 19, 600 people paying for it and an estimated 22,000 bins regularly put out for collection across the county. 

Now it aims to give those who may have missed the May deadline to sign up a second chance with a second window opening at the end of August. 

The second registration period will be open from August 26 to September 6. 

A council spokesperson said: “The council is in the process of finalising the routing and schedule for those who have already signed up. Residents who have registered during this period will shortly receive their permit sticker and collection calendars. 

“Residents wishing to sign up for the service between August 26 and September 6 will be able to do so online until 3.30pm on Friday, September 6. 

“Those who sign up during this window will have their collections run from October 21, 2024, to September 1, 2025.” 

The local authority recently moved household waste collections from fortnightly to every three weeks and will change garden waste collection from monthly to fortnightly. 

Residents in the county also have a food recycling caddy, separate boxes for glass and paper and a white bag for plastic, tins and cartons which are collected weekly. 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Runners of all standards are invited to The Meadows on Sunday from 5-6pm to join passionate climate change advocate and Barkley Marathons history maker, Jasmine Paris, in a special event.

“Running Out of Time” features a baton being carried 2,436 km from Ben Nevis to the London landmark of Big Ben to draw attention to the need for action.

Leading the run as the baton passes through Edinburgh will be Jasmine who, earlier this year, became the first woman ever to complete the Barkley Marathons – the world’s toughest race.

Completed by only 20 people since its inception, Jasmin made sporting history and further raised the profile of the growing sport of ultrarunning. 

In an exclusive interview with The Edinburgh Reporter afterwards Jasmine also told of how she hoped her achievement would focus more attention on the green agenda.

 A co-founder of ‘Green Runners’ which, according to the website, encourages “putting the planet first when making decisions”, Jasmine said:“If I have a better platform now for putting that message across so much the better.

“I have a real love of the natural world and that is part of the reason I run.”

An opportunity now arises in a city just a few miles from her home in Midlothian with the people-powered relay calling for action to cut emissions, restore nature  and support those hardest hit by climate change.

Joining Jasmin on the 5.9 Edinburgh leg of a relay claimed to be the country’s only sporting event for climate is easy and free.

Sign up at www.running-out-of-time.com 

The relay concludes in London on 4 July, the culmination of 210 stages.

Lothian Basketball Association wind down the curtain on their season with annual finals at Oriam on Saturday.

Proceedings get underway at 10.20am with the senior men’s Division Three play off between Dragons and Old Foxes.

This is followed at 12.40 with the Division Two encounter between Edinburgh Warriors and Polonia Phoenix Masters while the under-16/under-18 showcase involving North v South is at 2.50.

Highlight could be the women’s final (3.50) in which Boroughmuir Blaze tackle Sony Centre Falkirk Fury.

The finals day will finish with the men’s Division One final between the Edinburgh King’s Academy and Edinburgh Lions at 6pm.

Edinburgh’s Mr Entertainment picks his hot tickets to see in the capital and beyond

An epic journey, a life-changing holiday, a Fifties’ whirlwind romance and a dive into London’s clubland with Pet Shop Boys are just some of the stories waiting to be told on Edinburgh and London stages in June.   

At its heart, no matter how you dress it up, theatre is simply storytelling. It’s about the ability of a writer and a performer to share an adventure, an emotion, a happy ever after. The best can do this with words alone. Of course, with the right dressing, whether that be staging, lighting or sound design, a great story can become even more magical and that is exactly what you’ll find at the Festival Theatre later this month when Life Of Pi (25-29 June) sails on to the Nicolson Street stage.

Based on the Man Booker Prize winning book by Yann Martel, which has now sold more than 15 million copies worldwide, and having conquered the West End and Broadway to great acclaim, the Olivier Award-winning play comes to Edinburgh as it embarks on its first-ever UK tour. The story revolves around 16-year-old Pi Patel. After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, the teenager finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger called Richard Parker.

As they coexist on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean for 227 days, Life of Pi uses jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry to create a magical piece of storytelling that has been described as ‘a wonder to behold’ as it regales audiences with an epic journey of endurance and hope. Must See Theatre, indeed. 

Running time 2 hours 10 minutes, including interval. Tickets £28.50-£52.50 https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/all-shows/life-of-pi/2135

Over at the Lyceum right now, they’re planning the launch of their 24/25 Season. All is revealed at the beginning of June and, shortly after those revelations, another well loved play, Shirley Valentine (12-29 June), checks into Grindlay Street for a 17 night stay. Bringing the hit Pitlochry Festival Theatre production of Willy Russell’s bittersweet classic to the Lyceum finds Sally Reid reprising her award-winning, ‘outstanding’ performance in the title role in a piece that has been called ‘a celebration of women, freedom and what it means to find yourself again’. 

We meet Shirley, a bored, middle-aged wife and mother as she contemplates what has happened to her youth. She feels lonely, disenchanted and in a rut. Her children are all grown up and she’s stuck at home with only the kitchen wall to talk to. Shirley dreams of a better life, free from the chains of her domestic boredom and an unappreciative husband. When her best friend suggests a trip to Greece, Shirley packs her bags, leaves a note on the cupboard door and heads off for a fortnight of rest and relaxation. However, in Greece, she meets Costas, rediscovers herself, finds happiness and everything she has been missing. She realises that there is more to life than the dull, mundane existence she leads back home. Now, Shirley has a big decision to make… Funny and beautifully observed, 

Running time TBC (The piece usually runs approx 2 hours 10 minutes with interval). Tickets £14-£35 from https://lyceum.org.uk/events/shirley-valentine#dates-and-times 

Edinburgh’s very own Doody, local actor Kieran Lynch (you may have seen him as Peter Pan in last year’s panto at the Festival Theatre) rolls into The Playhouse this month, or should that be ‘rock’n’rolls’, as a new ‘grittier’ explosion of summer loving comes to town. Yes, we’re heading back to Rydell High where there may be a new term starting but Grease (25-29 June) is still the word. When has the story of Sandy and Danny ever not had us under its spell?

After a whirlwind holiday romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for her senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more? It doesn’t really matter that everyone knows the answer already, Grease is now one of the world’s best-loved musicals. Actually, it has always been, just ask anyone of a certain generation who will remember queues outside the ABC and other cinemas for weeks on end to see the movie when it was first released. Forty-six years on, Danny Zuko and Sandy Olsson are still stealing hearts. 

That said, the great thing about Grease is the fact it’s another of those musicals where it doesn’t really matter who lands the leads roles, the songs, as they say, are the stars so expect Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want… but don’t sing along, I know, it’s difficult, but try to restrain yourself until the medley at the end. There’s always a medley at the end, isn’t there? So, round-up your T-Birds, pick up your Pink Ladies and re-discover why Grease really is the one that you want… after all, you wouldn’t want to be left stranded at the drive-in. 

Running time 2 hours 20 minutes including interval. Tickets £28.50-£89 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/grease/edinburgh-playhouse/

Right now, Pet Shop Boys Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe are undergoing a bit of a renaissance with a their new album, Nonetheless, charting at No 2, their Greatest Hits world tour, Dreamland, is still going strong and now the return of their West End musical, Closer To Heaven (until 30 June) is upon us. It’s a brand new production by Turbine Theatre, starring Frances Ruffelle, and it’s my ‘Theatre Break Hot Ticket’ for June, but it’s selling fast so get in quick.

Narrated by iconic, retired rock legend and actress, Billie Trix, Closer to Heaven is the story of Dave, just arrived in London from Ireland and looking for a job… which is how he comes to find himself behind the bar of successful gay nightclub, Vic’s Club, where he dreams of being a singer while quickly falling in love with the eponymous owner’s estranged daughter, Shell. However, the path of love is never easy and when Dave meets drug dealer Mile End Lee in the club, his life can never be the same again.

The new production boasts an impressive cast led by Tony Award winning Frances Ruffelle as Billie Trix, who already has two iconic musical theatre roles to her credit – Ruffelle originated the roles of Eponine in Les Misérables and Dinah in Starlight Express. 

Also in the cast as Dave is Glenn Adamson, last seen in Edinburgh as Strat at The Playhouse in Bat Out Of Hell.

With a book by one of Britain’s most celebrated writers, Jonathan Harvey, and the iconic sounds of Pet Shops Boys, Closer To Heaven will see the Turbine Theatre transformed into Vic’s Club and seating for this immersive production will be allocated on arrival. Doors will be open one hour before each performance where you will be assigned a seat. An exciting concept. 

Running time TBC. Tickets £42.50 and more details at https://mustseetheatre.com/news-pet-shop-boys-closer-to-heaven-ready-to-charge-the-imagination-at-londons-battersea-power-station-everything-you-need-to-know/

That’s me for another month, as always I’d love it if you could check mustseetheatre.com for all the top news, views and reviews from Edinburgh, London and beyond and just a reminder that you can access all my Edinburgh reviews online via the Edinburgh Reporter website. 

Until next time, happy theatre-going,

Líam

Scotland played a major part in preparing for the Normandy Landings 80 years ago. 

We had the wide open spaces and the beaches for military training, far from the vulnerable cities of southern England. This week the leaders of the free world gathered to remember the heroic events of those days in early June 1944 when 130,000 troops and 7,000 vessels mounted the largest seaborne invasion in human history.

A year before, Lord Mountbatten called a hundred senior commanders and military specialists to a meeting in Largs on the Ayrshire coast to begin planning the operation. In the months that followed thousands of soldiers would undergo training on the beaches and in the hills of Scotland.

This week we’ve been hearing how the temporary “Mulberry” harbours were developed at Garlieston on the Galloway coast. The Duke of Argyll’s castle at Inveraray become a training centre for troops of many nationalities: British, Canadian,  Australian, New Zealanders, Americans, Free French, Polish, Czechs and Dutch.  Up on the Morayshire coast. Lord Lovet was training his Commandos who would lead the assault on Sword Beach.

It’s difficult for us to imagine the huge national effort that was required to defeat the Nazi. It’s like contemplating the size of the universe. Yet our parents or grandparents did it.  They would be somewhat depressed to learn that we have a war in Europe yet again and the world is once again a dangerous place.

So as another of our “peace-time” elections rolls on, it’s not surprising that this week both Conservative and Labour parties have been talking about defence. Both have pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of national income, up from 2 per cent.  Rishi Sunak also wants to introduce National Service which would see 30,000 training places in the armed forces for 18 year-olds.  Sir Keir Starmer has promised to replace the aging nuclear-armed submarine fleet based on the Clyde and, yes, he would be prepared to press the nuclear button.

I find it depressing that they don’t promise much on how to prevent wars happening in the first place, like boosting the power and finances of the United Nations, or re-joining the European Union, which is one of the most important peace projects to come out of the Second World War, tying our economies together.    

It’s also difficult to imagine the effort required to rebuild Britain after the war. But somehow the new Labour government did it, under the quiet leadership of Clement Atlee, who had as much charisma as Keir Starmer.  We have to hope if Labour is elected, they will find the strength and the policies to do it after 14 years of austerity.

In Scotland, the opinion polls are still looking good for Labour. One, a particularly large one by You Gov, interviewed 50,000 people across Britain and 5,000 in Scotland. It suggests that Labour are going to win by a landslide, bigger than any of Tony Blair’s. In Scotland it predicts Labour will win 34 seats, the SNP just 17 (down from 43), the Conservatives 5 and the Liberal Democrats just 1.   

The SNP leader John Swinney came a little unstuck during a “four leaders” TV debate on Monday when he couldn’t answer directly if he was in favour of new oil exploration in the North Sea. The SNP have been trying to explain ever since that each application should be treated on its merits and judged against strict environment standards – which all opposition parties, Green, Red and Blue, say are weasel words.  “Transition” has become a very flexible word when it comes to climate change.   

The commemorations in Normandy have been a useful interruption to the general election campaign, reminding us that politics is only a part of our national story.  Next week, Scotland’s men’s football team go to Munich to play Germany in the opening game of the European Championships. Nothing could better illustrate the peace dividend in our part of Europe. The 200,000 strong Tartan Army will be going to Germany to cheer on our team but also to celebrate our common humanity.  

Residents in Midlothian are being offered help ensuring they have the proper ID to vote in next month’s general election. 

Midlothian Council is holding drop in sessions for people who do not have accepted photo IDs which will be required to be shown at polling stations when the nation votes on July 4. 

The sessions will provide people with help applying for a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) which can be used as an alternative. 

Photo IDs are required to vote in UK General elections and by-elections in Scotland after the law was changed two years ago but are not required at Scottish Parliament or local authority elections. 

They can take the form of driving licences, passports, Blue Badges and Scottish National Entitlement Cards. 

Anyone who does not have an accepted ID, has until June 26 to apply for the VAC if they want to vote in next month’s election. 

The first drop in was held last night at Penicuik Library with further sessions planed at Loanhead Library on Tuesday, June 11 between 2pm and 3pm, Newbattle Library, on Tuesday, June 11 between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, and Dalkeith Library on Thursday, June 13 between 5.30pm and 6.30pm. 

Anyone can go along and will need to bring their National Insurance number with them to receive help registering. 

Midlothian’s sitting MP Owen Thompson is standing for re-election in the seat which he regained from Scottish Labour in 2019 after losing it in 2017 by just over 800 votes. 

This time around Scottish Labour has announced charity executive Kirsty McNeil as their candidate for the seat with former Scottish Borders councillor Keith Cockburn standing for the Scottish Conservatives and Ross Laird for the Scottish Liberal Democrats. 

A full list of candidates is expected following the deadline to register closing at 4pm today. 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Police in Edinburgh are advising fans attending tonight’s Taylor Swift concert at Murrayfield Stadium to avoid the Westfield Road area. 

Westfield Road is currently closed between Stevenson Road and Gorgie Road, following a report of concern for a man at a property, which was reported at 12.55pm on Friday, 7 June. 

Officers are at the scene and enquiries to establish the circumstances are ongoing. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Please avoid the area. Drivers and concert-goers are urged to use alternative routes.”

Adverts for cars, cruise holidays and other “high carbon products” could continue to appear on bus shelters across Edinburgh until 2030 despite a ban by the council. 

Last week city councillors voted overwhelmingly to crackdown on promoting companies linked to the extraction and consumption of fossil fuels, in a move that could cost the local authority £200,000 a year in revenue. 

As a result airlines, airports, oil giants and car manufacturers – including electric sports utility vehicles (SUVs) – will be prohibited from purchasing advertising on council-owned spaces and other assets. 

However such firms will continue to be able to buy-up billboards at bus and tram stops for another six years, it has emerged, as the council’s advertising and street furniture contract is not due to come to an end until 2030. 

Councillors approved a seven-year extension to the deal with JC Decaux in January 2023, which led to calls for radical changes to the authority’s position on advertising, which was eventually backed by 15 votes to 2 at last Tuesday’s policy and sustainability committee. 

Details of the deal had not been made public due to commercial sensitivity, however a report before councillors last week said the impact of the new restrictions “could result in reduction of £200,000 per annum in revenue from 2030 onwards”. 

Council leader Cammy Day said: “We fully support well-managed advertising and sponsorship arrangements, so I welcome this revision of our policy in line with our net zero ambitions. 

“The new policy won’t impact existing contracts and will only apply to new contracts at the point of re-tender.” 

The advert ban on fossil fuels was pushed for by the City Chambers’ Green Group, who successfully tabled an amendment for it to apply to weapons manufacturers as well. However councillors stopped short of including meat products as officials warned this would be “highly controversial”. 

The council said the promotion of “high-carbon products” was “incompatible” with the its goal to reach net zero by 2030. 

“Reaching this target requires a shift in society’s perception of success, and the advertising industry has a key role to play in promoting low-carbon behaviours,” a report said. 

Greens councillor Alys Mumford said: “As a council we believe in climate justice, we believe in emissions reduction and we believe in making Edinburgh a better place to live and work. 

“We know that climate anxiety is very real and having a massive impact on the mental health of our young people. This is about what we say about ourselves as a council and as a city.” 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

It could be almost a year before the Lanthorn community centre reopens it was claimed this week after it was revealed work on the site had descended into a shambles. 

Scheduled to reopen at the start of this year, work at the Livingston landmark is now six months behind and more than £1m over budget.  

RAAC roof panels were removed in the Autumn and the building left open to the elements over winter, causing major structural damage. 

What started as straight-forward removal and replacement of RAAC roofing has become a major refurbishment of the entire building – adding millions of pounds to the final bill. 

A firm awarded a £2m contract in October 2022 were scheduled to have finished the work by January. 

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has been told that the firm was given an additional £450,000 to accelerate the works, but finally had their contract terminated in April. 

A new £1m contract had been awarded to another firm to complete the refurbishment- with an indicative end date of 1 November.  

And an architectural services contract of more than £25,000 will  run until April 2025. 

It was claimed this week the Lanthorn has become a money pit for the council, with sub contractors  being paid weekend rates to do work which will only need to be redone. 

The LDRS has been told of aluminium framework for suspended ceilings being put in while the building remains without a roof and open to the elements. The work was branded as “crazy stuff”. 

Serious water damage has affected the building meaning a full electrical refit is needed, and specialists have been brought in to do  structural surveys of the concrete floor and water damage to the gymnasium. It could be months before  the fungal damage to the gym dries out. 

A source told the LDRS: “It’s been a total waste of council money. They’ve had people working there just trying to make things look good, but nothing’s really been achieved. 

“They’ve basically done stuff back to front. They stripped the roof off in  September and left it open to the elements. They didn’t make it watertight. The water was pouring in. It just beggars belief. There was crazy stuff being done.  

“The Lanthorn now needs a total refurb they’ll probably not get change out of £4m. The user groups will be lucky if they’re in for next January – maybe March. 

“The building’s starting to dry out but the chapel is still soaking.” 

The source added: “The contractors were running miles behind and they were given an extra £450,000 to accelerate the programme.” 

User groups had expected to be back in the building in January this year.  They were told in April of the delays. 

Local Conservative councillor  and depute Provost, Peter Heggie told the LDRS: “The user groups are frustrated by the delays and are currently located in various locations around the community.  

“I must give real praise and credit to the user groups who have continued to support our community during the closure.” 

The council said that a new contractor was in place following “performance issues and missed deadlines”.  

It confirmed that there was water damage to the building but said that extra work needed would be accommodated “within the overall capital budget.”  

A spokesperson for the council told the LDRS: “The work is being undertaken by an external contractor. Following discussions with the original contractor on performance issues including missed construction deadlines and a lack of clarity on when the works would be completed, the council took steps to appoint another external contractor to complete the current contract with the objective that the project be completed as quickly as possible. 

“This will enable the building to be reoccupied and back in operation for the user groups and wider community. 

 “The new contractor took over the project earlier this month and work has been progressing since then to assess the scope of the works remaining to be complete, including rectifying areas where water ingress occurred due to the previous contractor failing to adequately protect the works in line with their contractual obligations. 

“ On completion of this exercise, which is anticipated in the next couple of weeks, the new contractor will be providing the council with a programme of works and estimated timescales for completion of the project.   

“It is envisaged that after taking account of payment for works that have been completed to the required standard by the previous contractor, the cost of the remaining works required will be accommodated within the overall capital budget available.” 

The Lanthorn Community centre was the first of the council’s public buildings to have problems identified with RAAC roof panels – in April 2021. User groups were moved out and the library was relocated.  

RAAC refurbishment work has already been completed on some primary schools where problems were identified months after the issue was first discovered at the Lanthorn. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Police have arrested a second man in connection with an attempted murder, which happened Groathill Road North, Edinburgh. 

The incident took place around 2.30pm on Wednesday, 29 May, 2024.

A 41-year-old man was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment. 

The arrested man, aged 39, is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 10 June, 2024. 

This follows the previous arrest of a 34-year-old in connection with the same incident

A man has been sentenced to nine years in prison for serious sexual offences in the Edinburgh area and placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely. 

Haydn Edmonds, 37, was sentenced today, Friday, 7 June for a series of crimes, including rape, committed between June 2016 and June 2019. 

He was previously found guilty following a trail at the High Court in Edinburgh. 

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Brown said: “The investigation revealed Edmonds to be a manipulative and sexually violent individual who poses a significant risk to women.  

“It is due to the courage of those came forward to report his abuse that he has been held to account for his actions. 

“I would urge anyone who has suffered sexual violence to come forward and report it to us, regardless of the passage of time.  

“Working alongside our partner agencies, we will support you through the process, investigate thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice. 

“Anyone with information or concerns should contact Police Scotland on 101, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.” 

West Lothian’s charities have seen income drop by 19% in a year when demand for their work is relied on ever more by the public and local government. 

Charities spend £90m a year operating in the county with almost half that funding coming through the council and health providers. 

Income dropped from £110m the year before to just £84m last year. 

The bulk of funding comes from a variety of sources, all of which have seen demands grow as the pot of money shrinks. 

Alan McCloskey, the chief executive of the Voluntary Sector Gateway (VSG), the Third sector umbrella group in the county, told councillors the falling income stream was a “concern”. 

Discussing the annual report of the VSG he told councillors in a meeting of the Economy, Community Empowerment and Wealth Building PDSP: “The report captures the vital role and essential services provided by charities, social enterprises, and community groups across West Lothian, as well as the incredible role played by volunteers. This is all set against the backdrop of the ongoing cost of living crisis.  

“Of particular note and concern is the 19% drop in income experienced by the sector from the previous year, while costs have remained constant and demands on services have increased.  

“The report highlights the size and scale of the third sector both locally and nationally, along with case studies that pay testimony to the amazing difference small grass roots organisations are making to help those in most need.” 

Many areas have seen increasing demand in the wake of the pandemic.  A Scottish Government grant of £450,000 made each year to the VSG for community mental health projects has been met with bids of more than £1.5m each year.  

During 2023/24 the VSG has continued to support the West Lothian Food Network and its members, by providing independent governance support to the network. VSG receive and pays out funds on behalf of the Food Network in the interim until the its’ own charitable status as an SCIO is established as a legal registered entity and has its own bank account. 

The Food Network is a coalition of charities and social enterprises which in the last year provided food support to more than 73,000 people in the county. 

Presenting the annual report during National Volunteer week, Mr McCloskey praised the significant amount of work provided  by volunteers on a daily basis. 

 “The report highlights the incredible amount of work volunteers do, he told councillors. 

There are 502 registered charities operating in the county, slightly down on last year’s number. Of these 86% are locally based, 9% are national and 5% international. 

Of the top five activities concentrated on the bulk, 163 charities, are involved in social care. Other sectors include community, economic and social development, sport and culture, religious activities and research and education. 

The VSG provides training and support to charities across the county. Mr McCloskey fears that many charities will struggle to sustain themselves in the face of growing demands and shrinking income. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Four men have been jailed for a total of over 18 years after pleading guilty to being involved in serious organised crime in Edinburgh. 

Dale Cleeton, 31, was jailed for seven years, Calvin Begbie, 30, for six years, Fraser Boyd, 51, for three years and Mitchell Whyte, 24, for 32 months. 

Cleeton and Begbie were also given Serious Crime Prevention Orders for three years.  

They were convicted on Friday, 3 May, 2024 at the High Court in Glasgow and were sentenced there on Friday, 7 June, 2024.

Detective Inspector Mark McCullagh, senior investigating officer for the case, said: “These men and their organised crime group were a significant factor in the trade of illegal drugs in Edinburgh and The Lothians. 

“They caused nothing but harm in pursuit of their own gain. 

“Their activities were uncovered by an intelligence-led operation by specialist officers working in Edinburgh. Disrupting the activities of organised crime groups and making the country an extremely hostile environment for them to operate is one of Police Scotland’s top priorities.  

“There is no place for serious organised criminality in our society and, working in partnership with the local communities we serve, law enforcement agencies and the members of the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, we will continue our fight against those involved in serious and organised crime to keep our communities safe.” 

Shannon McGregor will leave Hibs following the expiration of her contract this month (June 2024).  

McGregor joined Hibernian in December 2017, quickly establishing herself as a key player in midfield –despite her injury troubles and has gone on to make 125 appearances for the Hibees during the past seven years with the Club.  

During her time in Leith, she has lifted the League Cup on two occasions in 2018, and 2019 and the Scottish Cup in 2018.  

After several years of dedicated service, the 24-year-old has decided to take the next step in her career and explore new opportunities. 

McGregor said: “Leaving Hibernian is one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make. This Club has been my home for the past seven years, and I am incredibly grateful for all the support I’ve received from the fans, my teammates, and the staff.  

“I have grown immensely as a player and as a person, and I will always cherish the memories we’ve made together. Thank you for everything.” 

Hibernian FC Women’s Head Coach, Grant Scott added: “Shannon is a player that I have thoroughly enjoyed working with over my two spells at the Club, a top professional both on and off the park.  

“We have been in dialogue with Shannon since the turn of the year about extending her terms but following multiple conversations, Shannon feels that now is the right time for her to explore a new challenge.  

“While we are sad to see her go, we are proud of her efforts and all she has achieved during her time at Hibernian.” 

Everyone at Hibernian FC would like to wish Shannon all the best for the future, and thank her for her efforts. 

An Edinburgh community youth project set up to help disadvantaged kids being targeted by criminal gangs has been expanded into other parts of the city after police said it “contributed to a 25 per cent reduction in antisocial behaviour”. 

‘Friday Night Lights’ was launched at Leith Community Sports Hub and has been hailed as a huge success one year on. 

The initiative invites youngsters aged nine to 14 to take part in sports activities and build their communication skills on Friday evenings as an alternative to being out on the streets. 

And it is now being offered to youngsters in Niddrie and Gorgie as well. 

The club was started up after community police officers became increasingly concerned about a “rise in criminal activity among youngsters”. 

As well as organising games and providing food at the sessions, youth workers from local charities YMCA and Pilmeny Development Project build relationships with participants and can offer them further support through other services available through their organisations.   

The scheme is made possible through funding from Places for People Scotland, while the Sport Hub is run by sportscotland and funded by the National Lottery. 

An update to Edinburgh Council’s education committee said young people have gone on to employment directly linked to the local charities involved. 

It said: “Our evaluation for year 1 showed us that: Our project contributed to a 25 per cent reduction in antisocial behaviour in the local beat areas where our young people live; 86 per cent have improved their connections with community police since the start of the 
project; 92 per cent want to influence the area more positively, and 79 per cent feel less inclined to undertake anti-social behaviour.” 

The Sergeant from Leith’s community policing team said: “This level of engagement is really important for us as community police officers because not only can we deter people from antisocial behaviour, but we can actually engage on their own level and get to know the young people in their own environment. 

“And then when we see them out on the street, we can engage in a friendly, sociable way, without necessarily coming across as just another uniform that they have to deal with.” 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Edinburgh Bus Users’ Group AGM

The Edinburgh Bus Users’ Group held their AGM on Thursday evening with guest speaker David Biggs the former Transport Convener.

Professor Begg said that bus journey times are adversely affected by longer journey times which have risen by about 20 per cent in the last decade.

Read more here.

Swiftmania

Taylor Swift fans were already queuing up in the early afternoon on Thursday to again access to Scottish Gas Murrayfield for the full concert experience. If you are going tonight or tomorrow you may wish to get there early to be ahead of the crowds.

For more information have a look at the Forever Edinburgh website here.

Were you there? Tell us about your experience.

David Gray appointed at Easter Road

As our Callum Napier predicted in the June issue of our paper David Gray has been appointed manager at Easter Road on a permanent basis. Read more here on Page 22 – and read the announcement of the new appointment here.

Support local independent news

Today is the final day of Indie News Week in the UK. Many of our colleagues running news outlets similar to The Edinburgh Reporter have been involved in events this week. We are taking part in the Scottish Beacon event at the Grassmarket Community Project all day today when we will be part of the discussion about the role of local news in Scotland’s communities.

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Leith Gala Day

Leith Gala Day takes place on Saturday with a parade, the opening of the Victorian Swing Bridge and entertainment in Leith Links.

The Gala Day also marks the beginning of the week-long Leith Festival 2024.

There is more information here about some of the events.

The plans for the proposed 8,500 seat Edinburgh Arena to be built at Edinburgh Park have been recommended for approval by planning officers.

The plans for the bowl auditorium will come before councillors at a meeting next Wednesday when there will be a full hearing expected to last around three hours.

Alistair Wood, Executive Vice President, Real Estate and Development, AEG Europe said: “We’re delighted that the proposals for a new Arena in Edinburgh are recommended for approval, and we look forward to presenting the facts about the proposals at committee and answering any questions elected members may have. This reflects months of consultation and discussion with the public and key stakeholders prior to the application being submitted and a positive ongoing dialogue with all throughout the application process. This is the most sustainable site available, and we’re determined to enhance Edinburgh as a venue for live music and other events. We are hopeful the Planning Committee will support the officers’ recommendations.”

The plans include an arena next to road, tram, bus and rail links with associated restaurants, cafés and hot food concessions. It is expected that around 245 jobs could be created by erecting the new building on this gap site.

The plans include 78 cycle parking spaces in Sheffield Stands and the plan is to have a canopy cover or enclosure over the cycle park.

The planners conclude as follows: “

The proposal complies with the development plan and the principle of development is
acceptable in this location. The proposal will be in a sustainable location and will
contribute to compact urban growth, local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods. A
wider mix of uses will be achieved in Edinburgh Park. It will contribute to climate
change and mitigation and will be energy efficient. There will not be an unreasonable
loss of neighbouring amenity and future occupiers will have a satisfactory environment,
with the use of conditions. There are no issues regarding archaeology or airport safety
with the use of conditions. The proposal will encourage the use of sustainable transport
modes and the use of conditions relating to cycle and pedestrian paths and queue
management will mitigate the impact on roads and paths and at the public transport
stops. Public safety and equalities matters have been considered and mitigation
secured through planning conditions. The proposal is acceptable. There are no other
material considerations that outweigh this conclusion.”

Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrats have been slammed for handing out “fake newspapers” during their campaign for the upcoming general election. 

The party has come under fire after voters in Edinburgh West received a newspaper-style leaflet titled the ‘Edinburgh West Herald’. 

A headline said the choice was between the Lib Dem’s Christine Jardine, who has been the constituency’s MP since 2017, or “more failure with the SNP”. 

SNP’s Edinburgh West candidate Euan Hyslop described it as “misleading propaganda disguised as journalism” and said there were already “enough bad faith actors in our public realm spreading opinion as fact”. 

However a Scottish Lib Dem spokesperson argued that “all political parties use this form of communication”. 

They said the party was “proposing and rolling out guidelines for these campaign leaflets which will see all of them clearly identified as being from and paid for by the Liberal Democrats on the front page”. 

They added: “This goes further than political parties’ legal requirements which only state that a tiny imprint is needed. It’s crucial that this campaigning literature states clearly it comes from a political party. 

Hyslop, who is also a city councillor for Drum Brae/Gyle, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “It’s an ongoing issue that we have to deal with in west Edinburgh. 

“However, I know that many local people have complained in the past and nothing has been done to prevent it and nothing will change when they receive complaints this time either. 

“I feel sorry for the volunteers who deliver them, many of whom I know as good local people that care about their community. In conversation with them many believe that they’re doing a local service, delivering a local update with local information about the community.” 

The paper in question’s front page features a photo of Jardine, urging readers to “re-elect a strong voice as our MP”. 

The party has previously faced criticism for distributing campaign material which have the appearances of newspapers, including in Edinburgh during the 2021 Holyrood election. 

Earlier this year the Society of Editors vowed to “name and shame those who continue to attempt to pull the wool over voters’ eyes” by disguising leaflets as newspapers. 

It said: “Not only does this absurd practice damage democracy and undermine public trust in both politics and the news media, it is also insulting to the electorate who are not stupid and expect officials and candidates to communicate with them in an open and transparent manner.” 

Mr Hyslop said: “We know the Lib Dems won’t change tack on this, so we are focused on running our own positive campaign and speaking to residents on doorsteps across west Edinburgh. 

“From the conversations I’ve had, many former Lib Dem voters here are switching to Labour and the SNP because they want change here in west Edinburgh. 

“Handing out fake newspapers is one thing, actually fighting to improve services is another entirely. At the minute, Edinburgh West residents only get one of those from their local MP.” 

A Scottish Lib Dem spokesperson said: “The Lib Dems are the only party with a clear plan to save and protect local journalism from the existential threat they face from big tech companies, social media and the shift towards online news. We’re calling for a levy on very large social media companies to provide financial support for local journalism. We have a duty to lead by example and promote a diverse and high-quality news ecosystem.” 

The candidates standing in Edinburgh West so far are as follows: 

• Christine Jardine – Scottish Liberal Democrats 
• Euan Hyslop – Scottish National Party 
• Michael Davidson – Scottish Labour 
• James Puchowski – Scottish Greens 
• Michael Banks – Reform UK 
• Tam Laird – Scottish Libertarian Party 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Dan Gilkes, a newcomer with Redcar Bears, and former Berwick racer, Paul Starke, have been recruited as the Jewson Bandits attempt to get their season back on track.

The Borders club face a tough task at Scunthorpe Scorpions on Friday as they look to bounce back from the Lincolnshire side’s 46-44 victory at Shielfield Park on Saturday night in the Cab Direct Championsip.

However, Scorpions have lost only three league fixtures on home shale in as many seasons and thrashed the Bandits 62-28 there three weeks ago.

Michael Palm Toft, almost unbeatable around the Eddie Wright Raceway, is out with the broken collarbone after a Heat six crash at Shielfield last weekend and Scunthorpe will operate rider-replacement for the Dane.

Berwick’s Lewis Kerr will be hoping it’s third time lucky as his previous two meetings in Berwick colours have seen him crash out in the first heat both times.

His right leg stood up to a stern test in Monday’s Premiership clash between Oxford and Leicester Lions where he completed all four races on his Spires’ return and looked very much on the pace.

Gilkes, who began the season concentrating on the Premiership with Sheffield, signed for Redcar in place of former Bandit Jonas Knudsen and made his Bears’ debut at Scunthorpe last Friday.

He has a decent record around the track from his time with Plymouth, although it was also the scene of a season-ending April 2022 crash when he suffered arm and chest injuries on a night when the Gladiators won by six points.

Gilkes takes the place of Jye Etheridge who is still sitting out his mandatory nine-day concussion protocol and Starke replaces Danish Bastian Borke who will be watching the action on the British Speedway Network from his hospital bed in Denmark after crashing at Poole.

Stewart Dickson, Berwick’s team manager, said: “No-one is doing what Bastian did before his crash, scoring eight and ten on a four-point average, but Paul is a solid scorer with a decent record around Scunthorpe.”

He added: “We are up against it because the home side are flying at the moment but we have to go there determined to make something happen.

“Amid all our recent problems, Rory (Schlein) and Drew (Kemp) have been in top form and we need them to lead from the front again along with Lewis (Kerr).”

Friday is the first of three away meetings before the Bandits return to Shielfield Park on June 22 and this Saturday the only action is the Attis Sports Division British Final at the National Speedway Stadium.

Schlein, the champion in 2020, and Kerr fly the Berwick flag with Kemp still waiting to hear whether he will be called up from the reserve berth.

Scunthorpe: Kyle Howarth, R/R for Michael Palm Toft, Simon Lambert, Connor Mountain, Jake Allen, Nathan Ablitt, Luke Harrison

Berwick: Lewis Kerr, Danyon Hume, Dan Gilkes, Drew Kemp, Rory Schlein, Freddy Hodder, Paul Starke

PICTURE: Drew Kemp in action for Bandits

Leith Festival begins on Saturday and Citadel Youth Centre invite everyone to join them.

Events will include the official opening of Victoria Swing Bridge after a lengthy period of restoration.

The bridge will be officially opened at 10.00am with a flag unfurling ceremony and a piped procession led by Scotland’s National Piper, Louise Marshall.

Forth Ports have commissioned the production of three amazing silk flags representing Leith Past, Leith Present and Leith Future. Over the last 12 weeks, members of the local community have been contributing to the design of each of the flags. Parents and children at the Citadel have designed the third flag ‘Leith Future’ and this flag will be proudly paraded across the Victoria Bridge at 10.00am.

Everyone is invited to go along and cheer on the Citadel youths at the local historic event.

Leith Gala: The 2024 Gala Parade will set off from Lochend Park at 10.30am to join the main stage in Leith Links, launching the opening of the 2024 Leith Gala.

Join the Citadel parents group, the children and the youths as they sing their way along the route. Do cheer them on from the pavement along the route.

Leith Jazz and Blues Party: After last year’s initial ‘Jazz Tea Dance’ there is an even bigger and better event lined up on Saturday. Rosy Blue will kick things off with a full set at 1.30pm. Returning for a second year with popular classics that will get everyone up to dance.

The Blue Hyenas will then take the stage with some traditional Chicago Blues interspersed with covers from the Rolling Stones, Beatles and Hendrix!!

And everyone can enjoy some free Tacos prepared and served by the Scran Academy Food Van staffed by Citadel youths from the careers café.

Josh Pickering, Stellar Monarchs No 1, returns to the team after injury for their Cab Direct Championship clash at Armadale on Friday against the powerful Oxford Cheetahs who feature their former skipper, Sam Masters, and top British rider Scott Nicholls.

Teenager Max James suffered a broken rib in a crash in last Friday’s victory over Glasgow Tigers and Max Perry stands in as a guest for Monarchs.

The Armadale combine are keen to build on last week’s BSN Series victory over arch rivals Glasgow which earned them a place in the semi-final. They will face Scunthorpe Scorpions at a date to be arranged.

Focusing back on Friday and it will be a tough night against an accomplished team which also includes with former Monarchs rider Cameron Heeps.

Kye Thomson, who played a big part in the victory over Tigers, said: “Their (Oxford’s) top two are strong and Cameron knows his way around. All we can do is out gate them. It’s all about self-belief and I believe we can do it.”

Oxford beat Monarchs by 18 points on their own circuit last week so the home side would need an exceptional performance to take the aggregate bonus point.

STELLAR MONARCHS: Josh Pickering, Lasse Fredriksen, Kye Thomson, Paco Castagna (captain), Justin Sedgmen, Max Perry (guest), Connor Coles.

MONARCH OXFORD CHEETAHS: Sam Masters, Luke Killeen, Jordan Jenkins, Cameron Heeps, Scott Nicholls (captain), Jacob Hook (guest), Jody Scott.

PICTURE: Josh Pickering

“I never really thought about it before. How brief life is. How it can be there one moment, and gone the next. Over in a flash, I suppose.”

What happens when we die? And can we alter an ordained course of events – can we cheat death? Is that what happens when people ‘come back from the brink’?

These are questions that have long fascinated Edinburgh author Emma Steele, whose debut novel The Echoes of Us is published this week. It’s about the lives we choose to lead, our mistakes and misunderstandings along the way, and whether the power of love can ever be strong enough to help us put those right.

Jenn, a doctor, and Robbie, a chef, have lived together in a tenement flat for some time. After the initial euphoria their relationship has gradually started to deteriorate. She’s a driven, uptight medic with an overwhelming need to look after everyone and make everything all right. He’s a hedonistic guy from a privileged background who lives for the day and parties through the nights. They love one other, but does Robbie love her enough to change his selfish ways? And does she trust him enough to tell him everything?

As the story begins, the couple, newly reconciled after a separation, are driving home through Edinburgh when they jump a light. A truck is bearing down on them. It’s approaching the passenger side of their car. Will they die or will they live? Or will one of them die and one of them live? And can either of them change that?

To find out what happens, and why, Steele takes us back through the years. We see the past through Robbie’s eyes. But why is he seeing it? And is he a reliable guide?

It’s 1999; Jenn is on the beach with her beloved father and slightly vague mother. They are a happy family.

It’s 2014; Jenn and Robbie meet for the first time in a seedy Cowgate bar. Robbie’s there but he’s not there; he sees himself as he was then, but Jenn can’t see him as he is now. Is he dreaming? Or is she?

As we move backwards and forwards through the years (this may feel a little confusing at first, but stick with it, it soon makes sense) we observe Jenn and Robbie together and apart. Robbie begins to learn what has made Jenn the complicated, reticent person she is today – and to see what an entitled jerk he has been, from his comfortable childhood to his irresponsible laddish existence – something he’s been loath to give up even having met the love of his life. Steele creates a convincing picture of the immature man-boy, the one who wants to care, but only when it suits him, who wants to be loved, but can’t resist flirting with other women, and who switches into automatic sulk mode if Jenn won’t fit in with his party plans.

In the present moment, Robbie is desperate to save Jenn from the oncoming lorry – but he also really wants to know why she left him so abruptly eight months earlier. And it turns out that her reasons were not all to do with Robbie.

Emma Steele has written a gripping, clever and unusual novel. It’s a romance, but it’s also a lot more. As she slowly reveals Jenn’s story and (but not only) Robbie’s part in it, we find ourselves questioning our own version of the past. Do any of us remember things clearly? Can a personal memory ever be objective, especially when it refers to childhood events about which we were probably ill informed? And can we ever let go of the effects these questionable memories have on us? Are our ideas about ourselves valid – do we ever see ourselves as others see us? For the moment, Robbie is afforded that chance, and he’s shocked by what he sees.

Jenn is locked into her certainty that her father deserted the family for a reason, and that that reason can only have been her mother. Her mum must’ve driven her beloved dad away – why else would he have abandoned her? Why did she end up, still a schoolgirl, having to look after her mum, make sure she ate, keep the pair of them on their tiny budget, avoid going out in case her mum couldn’t cope? And why has her mum now taken herself off to Cornwall? Jenn feels deserted over and over again, but it can’t be her dad’s fault.

Robbie is locked into his own certainty – that he has always been a great mate (then he is forced to revisit a holiday with his best friend Marty, and face the almost tragic consequences of his own actions), that he’s the life and soul of every family party (until he sees how fed up everyone is with his heavy drinking, and how worried his parents are about his behaviour) and that Jenn’s taking her exams seriously is just her spoiling his fun;

What if both of them were wrong?

Although Robbie is the more obvious villain of this story, The Echoes of Us makes it clear that life isn’t as simple as that. Yes Robbie is a self-indulgent idiot, but as his long suffering mother says to Jenn, being the youngest child and only boy in the family meant he was spoiled rotten; he grew up thinking the world revolved around him – because it did.  Similarly, although Robbie certainly doesn’t treat her well, Jenn doesn’t help with her somewhat obsessive, secretive nature. Yes, she’s suffering, but she too needs to interrogate her past. We can’t let our childhoods, good or bad, become an excuse for everything that comes after.

Steele has also created a cast of interesting secondary characters; Robbie’s sister Fi, trying to put a brave face on her crumbling marriage while navigating motherhood and career, Jenn’s friend Hilary, desperate to meet Mr Right, Jenn’s old boyfriend Duncan, who tries so hard to please her (and I must admit when I read the description of the house he ends up in, I did think I could probably have set aside any scruples about love….but I am old and cynical and should be ignored…) Jenn’s parents are, neither of them, straightforward either – a fact with which Jenn has eventually to come to terms.

As Robbie observes key events from his own life and from Jenn’s, he’s still in that car, they’ve still jumped the light (‘ambler gambling’ being an Edinburgh tradition), that truck is still skidding towards them. Is he going to have the chance to put everything right? Steele keeps us wondering till the very last pages of this moving, thought-provoking novel.

The Echoes of Us is published by Mountain Leopard Press (an imprint of Headline) on 6 June 2024.

Emma Steele grew up in Helensburgh, studied law at the University of Aberdeen, and now lives in Edinburgh with her husband, children and a dog called Sunshine. Read more about her here.

The Edinburgh Bus Users Group met on Thursday evening for their AGM and have issued a demand to the council to take action on increased journey times.

The voluntary body heard from David Begg the former Edinburgh Transport Convener who said that bus journey times have increased in the last decade by up to 20 per cent. He claimed that the main reason is congestion.

Harald Tobermann, Chair of the Edinburgh Bus Users Group, said: “Public transport systems thrive if they deliver frequent services reliably and consistently.

“I am therefore extremely concerned about congestion in our city and the resulting increase in public transport journey times.

“Unless reversed, this negative trend will wipe out any ‘net-zero’ gains from other measures such as LEZ, active travel, electric vehicles, and 20 minute neighbourhoods.

“We therefore call on Edinburgh Council to roll out 7-7-7 bus lanes on all major routes; and on the Scottish Government to reboot their fund for bus priorities measures and to enable bus-mounted bus lane enforcement cameras.

” A sustained commitment to bus priority from all authorities creates a virtuous circle: the (publicly owned) bus company will be able to invest in new vehicles, smarter ticketing, and more frequent services; which in turn will encourage more people to use the bus.”

7-7-7 bus lanes operate from 7am to 7pm 7 days a week, reflecting actual demand. The council is operating a trial on the number 44 bus route on this basis.

Scotland paid tribute on Thursday evening to the generation who fought in the Second World War, 80 years to the day since more than 150,000 Allied forces invaded beaches in northern France.

More than 1,000 people attended Edinburgh’s Usher Hall for Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland’s commemorative event, titled Scotland’s Salute.

Audience members included Scottish D-Day veterans, dignitaries and military officials, as well as members of the public who wished to pay tribute to the service of thousands of men who secured our freedom.

The event featured music from a range of military and civilian performers and culminated in an act of Remembrance.

Scotland’s Salute was hosted by TV presenter and Royal Marines veteran JJ Chalmers, and first-person testimony of the invasion was provided by former journalist, MEP, and voice of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Alasdair Hutton OBE TD.

This event was one of many taking place across the UK and northern Europe, and was the largest in Scotland.

CEO of Legion Scotland, Dr Claire Armstrong OBE, said: “We are proud to have so poignantly delivered this commemorative event for the heroic D-Day generation.

“The packed Usher Hall fell silent to remember, was moved by the narrated testimony of our Scottish D-Day veterans and was roused by the moving performances of our musicians.

“The sacrifices of this generation are owed an eternal thanks, and we are forever grateful for the achievements of this generation.”

Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, Gordon Michie, said: “Like Legion Scotland, we are supremely grateful for the opportunity to provide this commemorative event to the people of Scotland, but most importantly, to the Scottish D-Day veterans, and their families, who joined us tonight.

“The D-Day landings changed the course of history, and we cannot forget that in less than a year after this massive operation, victory in Europe was declared.

“Our freedoms today are owed to these men, and we too commit ourselves to an eternal gratitude for what they achieved on our behalf.”

An Edinburgh councillor has launched a blistering attack on Historic Environment Scotland, urging it to “wake up and smell the coffee” over the climate crisis. 

The organisation was accused of not adequately responding to the climate emergency after it objected to a heat pump being installed in a New Town home – and of “patronising” residents by telling them to hang “thick curtains” instead of adapting properties with more energy-efficient heating systems.  

Members of the council’s planning appeals committee reviewed an application for a roof extension to create extra space for an air source heat pump on Wednesday, June 5. 

Officials previously refused permission, saying the plans would have a “detrimental impact” on the A-listed Great King Street building. 

It came after Historic Environment Scotland (HES) said in an objection letter it could not support removing the existing Georgian roof as this would be a “considerable loss of original and historic fabric”. 

The government-run body, which was set up to “investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment”, said while it encouraged “investment in renewable energy and air-source heat pumps, we do not consider that the proposed thermal improvements outweigh the negative impact of the alterations”. 

Cllr Chas Booth, Greens, argued that the applicant “should be congratulated,” adding: “If only more of our citizens came forward with an aim to reduce the emissions from their buildings in a sensitive and appropriate way.” 

He said:  “I’m disappointed that Historic Environment Scotland objected to this one. 

“I think, frankly, Historic Environment Scotland need to wake up and smell the coffee – the climate emergency is here. They have not adequately responded to it and we do need to find ways to reduce emissions from historic buildings in a way that respects their character. This is a good example of that. 

“[HES] telling people to install thick curtains and install wooden shutters is patronising nonsense, they should be totally ashamed that they haven’t got adequate guidance in place to genuinely address the climate emergency. 

“I understand that this building is a listed and we have to be absolutely crucial about not doing anything that would undermine the important historical value of that, but I think this application is sensitive.” 

Councillors unanimously agreed to overturn the refusal of planning permission. But despite this, due to an accompanying application for listed building consent being refused and thrown out on appeal to the Scottish Government, the works will not be allowed to go ahead. 

The HES objection stated:  “We would remove our objection if the plant equipment could be discretely located within the existing roof valley. We would need to assess the detail in any amended scheme. In looking at alternatives for the plant equipment, our primary consideration will be the physical and visual impacts of the roof alterations.” 

A Historic Environment Scotland spokesperson said: “At HES we champion the reuse and retrofit of historic buildings for the crucial role this has to play in achieving net-zero, and we encourage investment in renewable energy and air-source heat pumps. 

“We provide advice and guidance to local authorities and developers about how this can be done without compromising the special character of listed buildings. 

“We objected in this case as the proposed alterations would have significantly diminished the special architectural significance of this A listed building, removing an original roof structure to provide a new mansard roof with glazed dormer windows. 

We were most supportive of the renewable energy element, but considered that the desired plant equipment could have been located within the roof valley without requiring the loss of the roof. 

“The Scottish Government Reporter agreed with ourselves and the City Council who refused the application for listed building consent. 

“We would support any new proposals to install renewable energy plant within the existing roof valley.” 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Police Scotland has agreed a national contract to implement body worn video for frontline officers and staff across Scotland, over the next three years. 

Motorola Solutions UK Limited was successful in securing the £13.3m contract and work has already started to design, build and implement this new capability. 

The contract includes the purchase of 10,500, Home Office-approved VB400 cameras and supporting back-office systems. 

Since taking command in October 2023, Chief Constable Jo Farrell has prioritised body worn video. 

The equipment can help to de-escalate incidents, improve public trust in policing and reduce complaints, support officer and staff safety, and bring wider benefits to the criminal justice system. 

Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors said: “The introduction of body worn video will transform policing in Scotland and a national roll-out is a key priority for the Chief Constable. 

“Body worn video can significantly enhance public confidence and support officer and public safety by providing effective and transparent evidence of police and public actions. 

“Body worn video will also improve the quality of evidence presented in court to deliver faster justice for victims by increasing early guilty pleas and reducing time spent at court for victims, witnesses and police officers. 

“We know there is strong public and partner support for body worn video in Scotland and we will continue to explain policing’s use of this important technology, including assurance around data privacy and human rights considerations. 

“Appointing a supplier is an important step and we are working at pace with Motorola Solutions to ensure that body worn video is embedded effectively for frontline officers and staff as soon as possible. 

“We also want to maximise the benefits of body worn video for the wider criminal justice system to improve efficiencies and experiences for victims and we are working with Motorola and partners to that end. 

“This is a complex programme of work, but appointing a supplier is a big step forward and we’ll continue to share details as progress is made.” 

A national roll-out of body worn video was a key recommendation of Lady Elish Angiolini’s independent review of police complaints, published in 2020. 

Our national public consultation on body worn video received more than 9,000 responses and showed overwhelming support for its introduction, with 81 per cent agreeing that it would increase public confidence in policing. 

Chair of the Scottish Police Authority, Martyn Evans, said: “This a welcome development in the project to roll out body worn video to frontline officers as soon as possible. This remains a priority for the Authority in terms of the safety of officers, effectiveness of investigations and in building trust and confidence.” 

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “I am pleased that the Scottish Government’s record police funding of £1.55 billion for Police Scotland this year has meant that a national contract has been awarded which will introduce body worn video for officers and staff. 

“Body worn video can increase public confidence in policing, protect officers’ safety and support the investigation and prosecution of crime, benefitting victims and witnesses and the general public. 

“I welcome the Chief Constable’s assurance that the national roll-out is a key priority.” 

Motorola Solutions was awarded the contract on the basis of quality and value for money and a range of technical requirements. The new system is anticipated to work smoothly in areas with lower quality network connections, including rural locations, and we are also investing in our network capability to support this. 

Mark Schmidl, senior vice president for international sales at Motorola Solutions, said: “We are proud to support Police Scotland with its nationwide deployment of the VB400, an innovative technology solution developed in Scotland, which will play an important role in helping to make communities safer.” 

Every frontline uniformed police officer including Special Constables will be expected to wear a video camera on their uniform while on duty and to activate it when using police powers, whether it be a stop and search, an arrest of a suspect or executing a search warrant. 

Police staff in custody suites will also use body worn video when interacting with people in custody. 

Officers and custody staff will begin using body worn video once the technical infrastructure is established, operational processes embedded, and training is complete. 

Body worn video will be rolled out on a phased basis across the country and more details will be announced at a later date. 

Spokes, the cycling campaign group, held a public meeting to discuss proposed routes for the tram extension to Granton on Wednesday evening with a panel of four, comprising:

• Lesley Hinds who was formerly the Transport Convener who delivered the trams in 2014 after a woeful election result unseated the Liberal Democrats who had previously led on the project
• Euan Baxter who founded the Save Roseburn Path campaign when proposals for the extension were outlined by the council earlier in the year
• Alex Robb who is a member of the Spokes Planning Group, and
• Professor Adrian Davies who heads up the Transport and Health department at Edinburgh Napier University

More than 180 people attended, filling the downstairs and the gallery upstairs at St Augustine’s on George IV Bridge to capacity, with some people turned away at the door according to Spokes. There is a high level of public interest in Edinburgh in the tram extension, but it became evident during questions that some of the finer details have not yet filtered through to all members of the public. That is not their fault. It is one of the problems of the council system that it appears unattainable and indecipherable to many.

The discussion was a little muted without many up to date details provided, and certainly without the high emotion which has been displayed on social media. The current Transport Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur, is out on the election trail as a candidate, and so could not be on the panel. If he had been – or if any councillors from the Transport Committee had been – then the discussion might, in our view, have been more meaningful and informative and might have produced some solutions or suggestions.

Instead, some of the questions were light on detail, or even basic knowledge of the background of the project. Many answers can be provided from reading the February report by council officers putting forward the Roseburn Path as the preferred route, but it appeared that not everyone had read it. It is available here.

There was no mention of the instances of violence which have occurred on the North Edinburgh paths, there was no mention of the reduced carbon emissions which could be brought about by building on the former railway line, and there was little mention of the fact that this line (whichever way it reaches Granton) would be only a small part of a larger project, and would deliver significant economic benefits. The north-south extension would take the tram to the BioQuarter through Cameron Toll which, according to the council, makes the strategic business case stand up. The Transport Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur, has said in the past that the patronage between the two hospitals would make the line worthwhile.

The council now want to extend the tramline further from Roseburn to Granton along the Roseburn Path or the Orchard Brae route which incorporates the Dean Bridge. Nothing has yet been agreed. There will be a 12-week consultation on both routes and the dates for that have not yet been announced. It is likely to be later in the summer or even the autumn. Until then there is nothing wrong with debating the options, except that the options are not yet drafted in minute detail.

Save the Roseburn Path – Euan Baxter

There was scant mention of the real details of the ecological and environmental impact of using the Roseburn Path for the tram extension – except for Save Roseburn Path speaker, Euan Baxter, who said that some 3,500+ trees would be lost, and that adopting this route would mean losing the “linear park” which it provides. He talked of the active travel benefits of the path, what it delivers as urban green space and also why an on road route would make most sense for mass transit in North Edinburgh and that the path should be retained for cyclists and pedestrians, and children learning to ride bikes. He mentioned that five bridges will have to be “demolished”, but did not say which particular ones, and claimed the existing natural habitat would be “completely removed”. He rejected the idea that the council have confirmed they will build alternative cycle routes as part of the project, although there is one line in this report which confirms the point at 9.5.

Cycling infrastructure

Pedal on Parliament, the group which campaigns to make Scotland a cycling-friendly country, set out their demands in their manifesto: “Well-designed, joined-up cycle routes that keep people away from fast and heavy traffic both enable and encourage people to cycle who might not otherwise take the risk. This is particularly the case for many women, parents travelling with children, older people and disabled people.”

But for many that does not mean sending cyclists and pedestrians along a path which can at times be secluded and often empty – an argument well-rehearsed in speaking up for segregated cycle lanes alongside Lanark Road. Opponents of the cycle lanes first established on Lanark Road during Covid said that there were good alternatives either along the Water of Leith or the Canal. But cyclists argued that these were not suitable for those who want to use their bikes on a commute, and that the Water of Leith path in particular can be both muddy and uninviting on dark winter evenings.

Mass transit scheme

Mr Baxter said that a mass transit scheme “absolutely must be delivered” to deal with “Edinburgh’s three strategic priorities, tackling the housing crisis, reducing inequalities and the push towards net zero”. He argued that what we know now about the mental health benefits of greenspaces was not known when the Roseburn Path option was first mooted 20 years ago, and that in between times the path has increasingly been used for active travel.

But he also said that the council must address what is best for the tram, and said it must align with national transport policy. He argued that the Orchard Brae route would take the tram through a more densely populated area and referred to a report by Jacobs Steer who have advised the council on trams since 2005 where he said that option was preferred. Whether the high density equates to more tram passengers is a moot point, but council officers say that the Roseburn Path route would introduce more reliability in terms of journey times, and it avoids traffic congestion. There is also the possibility of introducing a Granton to Edinburgh Airport route allowing a tram to turn right at Haymarket – or simply allow for an interchange for passengers to get on an airport bound tram.

Mr Baxter said that things have changed in 20 years since the city set out on the tram project, but does not want any change on the Roseburn Path saying that a tram built on the path would risk the key piece of the north Edinburgh network, trees, wildlife and the nature network.

For the Roseburn Path

Lesley Hinds was a councillor when decisions were made about creating the first tram line since 1956 in the capital. She spoke from her own knowledge of the difficulties with the first tram project, and explained that this spur would in fact complete the routes which had originally been called 1A and 1B.

Some of the alignment for the tram route was included in the Tram Act 2006 – the statutory permission from The Scottish Government to proceed to build a tram in the first place. And since 2006 the plans were to build a tram from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven with a spur to Granton.

Mrs Hinds explained that many of the difficulties with the first project came from the discovery of unknown utilities in Edinburgh, remembering meetings with sobbing business people on Shandwick Place where the construction work faltered as a result.

She has lived in north Edinburgh for 40 years and said her personal opinion is that things have moved on since 2006. There is now a climate emergency and that should lead us to consider what we are leaving to the next generation. She outlined that in Edinburgh the increased congestion and associated poor air quality has led to the city setting a target of reducing car kilometres by 30% and to deliver net zero carbon by 2030.

In 2023, Mrs Hinds said that 1.89 million vehicle miles were travelled in Edinburgh and the number of cars have doubled in the last 30 years. This far she had largely agreed with the Save the Roseburn Path campaign.

But she said that Edinburgh is one of the fastest growing regions in the UK, and that the Granton Waterfront development in north Edinburgh is the largest regeneration project in Scotland, and the people of north Edinburgh had long ago been promised a tram.

She explained that trams are the solution for capacity and reliability. Boarding times are around 50% faster than the bus. She said: “What we need in Edinburgh is integrated transport and a mass rapid transport system. I urge everyone to look at the report which went to the committee in February because it is stark as to why it is Line 1B (the Roseburn Path) which should be supported. It’s an off-street tram corridor which will be quicker with reliable greater transport planning and city plan benefits including maximising the potential of the Granton Waterfront. It will serve the Western General, Craigleith Retail Park, heavy rail interchange and the new offices and hotels in Haymarket. It minimises impact on existing streets during construction, ensuring quicker construction, and less impact on other businesses, traffic and residents.

“I believe this project is at no risk to utilities. Anyone who went through the first tram project knows the issue of utilities. And it is important to realise that cycling and walking will be retained – and we need to ensure that it is retained – on line 1B.

“It provides better economic performance with expected lower capital costs and operating costs. It delivers better value for money.”

Mrs Hinds admitted that among the risks and challenges there is concern over the community and wildlife, and conceded this has to be dealt with, as well as the cycling challenges – which may mean demanding a single track in places or lowering the tram bed below bridges.

But she continued that the Orchard Brae option would snarl up traffic and “the construction period would be more complicated. It has not been costed at all and there could be constraints along the route leading to necessary land purchases”. She also said that there would be no parallel safe segregated cycle paths along the route – there is an obvious difficulty crossing Dean Bridge. But she also recited the difficulties in using Queensferry Street and the knock on effect that would have on the city’s bus services. The potential for a tram from Granton to the airport was limited by not being able to make a right hand turn onto Shandwick Place.

She said: “My view is that we should have a phased delivery with line 1B first – we should keep the original plan for a Telford Drive tram stop. For a few hundred metres of difference the cost [of taking it nearer the hospital] is just unsustainable. We should carry out partnership working with cycling and walking organisations to deliver an active travel corridor. We should spend no more time or money on the on road option – in my view it is not feasible. The Line 1B option is the only one which addresses cycling, walking, and public transport links to the waterfront – and it isn’t always going to be that way. Unless we invest in public transport our city will come to a halt and we will have the worst pollution and the worst air quality.”

By 2014 the council built the line from the airport to York Place. In 2023 the council built the line from York Place to Newhaven. Now it proposes to finish the initial project by creating the spur from Roseburn to Granton, but until the consultation goes live the timescale for the next part of the line is uncertain.

When the plans were brought to the Transport and Environment Committee in February the proposal was a single aspiration to recommend the north south line from the Royal Infirmary and Bioquarter in the South to Granton in the North. The ultimate decision was to put forward two options to the consultation phase of the project – to take the tram down the Roseburn Path or alternatively to run it out along Queensferry Street, over Dean Bridge and down Orchard Brae. This latter has not ever been costed, and includes the challenge of finding innovative engineering solutions to take the tram over the historic bridge.

Watch this space. Or watch the next Transport Committee meeting. The papers will be published here a week ahead of the meeting.

This event was part of the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling which runs until 9 June 2024. Find an event to interest you here.