Local politicians continue their call to “Keep Leith”
Local politicians are running a petition to keep Leith in the Scottish Parliamentary constituency name and invite locals to sign it.
But Ben Macpherson MSP and Deidre Brock MP have also called out for locals to tell Boundaries Scotland what they think before the consultation ends on Wednesday. This will support the campaign to have the Scottish boundary commission revise their plans on changing the name by removing Leith from the name.
Boundaries Scotland have a proposal to split the constituency of Edinburgh Northern and Leith which Mr Macpherson represents and replace it with two: Edinburgh North Eastern and Edinburgh Northern.
Ms Brock said: “It’s a daft suggestion to take Leith away from the name of this constituency. Previous attempts to wipe ‘Leith’ from the electoral map have never gone down well so I hope Boundaries Scotland will rethink this decision too – but the more folk that let them know the better.
“Keeping the name Leith is not just symbolic; it represents our shared history, our heritage and our community’s unique identity. Leith was an independent burgh until 1920 and retains its own distinct sense of place. As a historic docklands, Leith has always welcomed people from all corners of the globe and we are rightly proud of being part of this diverse community.
“I’ve put in my objection and I encourage others to do the same.”
Ben Macpherson said: “Boundaries Scotland’s current proposals would split my current Edinburgh Northern and Leith constituency across two new constituencies – Edinburgh Northern and Edinburgh North Eastern, from 2026.
“Leith’s distinct identity, culture and community is not only historically important but continues to matter today. I believe that dropping ‘Leith’ in the constituency description is a mistake, and it should be added back into the name for the constituency that would include Leith – so something like Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith.
“I urge Leithers to share their views regarding these changes by responding to the consultation, which closes on 15 May.”
L-R Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Deidre Brock MP for Edinburgh North and Leith and Cllr Stuart Dobbin (Forth Ward) at the North Edinburgh Community Festival
Hibs sack Montgomery after poor run
Hibernian FC have announced this morning that Nick Montgomery has been “relieved of his duties as Head Coach”.
Sergio Raimundo and Miguel Miranda have also left the Club with immediate effect.
Hibs are removing the manager after a 4-0 drubbing by Aberdeen at the weekend. The writing was already on the wall but now confirmed in today’s announcement. The club lost for the 13th time, having also done twelve and drawn 12 matches.
On Sunday after Aberdeen scored the third goal just after half time fans started leaving the stadium.
The Gordon Family said: “As a Board this was not a decision we made lightly, but felt it a necessary one to move the team forward. Although Nick and his coaching team worked tirelessly, their efforts didn’t deliver the results we had hoped for.
“We’d like to thank Nick, Sergio, and Miguel for all of their hard work and dedication, and wish them all the best for the future.”
David Gray will take charge of the First Team for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign.
The club say that no further comment will be made at this time.
Nick Montgomery was a former player with Sheffield United and also moved to Australia to play for Central Coast Mariners. The 42-year-old became coach at Easter Road last year.
The Easter Road weather mirrored the game as Hibs started off brightly with the fans in full voice and ended in the pouring rain and a half empty stadium as they went down 4-0 to a thoroughly professional Aberdeen side.
Credit: Ian JacobsThe Easter Road weather mirrored the game as Hibs started off brightly with the fans in full voice and ended in the pouring rain and a half empty stadium as they went down 4-0 to a thoroughly professional Aberdeen side.
Credit: Ian Jacobs
Five things you need to know today
Short term lets
The question of The Scottish Government’s legislation on short term lets and how they are then regulated by Scottish local authorities will come under the spotlight today at The Scottish Parliament.
The Edinburgh Council Chief Planning Officer, David Givan, and Claire Daly of Sustains will both be giving evidence when the Local Government Housing and Planning Committee meets at 9am at Holyrood.
Charity Living Streets which aims to make the city better for pedestrians is holding a public meeting on Thursday when they say new faces will be very welcome. It is at 6pm at Friends Meeting House on Victoria Terrace.
“Fiona Hutchison and Joanne Soroka are two prominent tapestry weavers who are showing new work at the Patriothall Gallery this May. While women’s art, and in particular textiles, has historically been sidelined by mainstream culture, today it is increasingly valued and celebrated.”
Patriothall is in Stockbridge at Wasps Patriothall EH3 5AY.
One for your diaries. OOTB at Abbeymount will open its doors on 1 and 2 June from noon until 5pm each day allowing visitors to meet the makers and buy original art and gifts. There will also be a free prize draw.
This is part of the Out of the Blue 30th anniversary celebrations. Find out more.
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First Scots coin sold at auction
ONE OF Scotland’s first ever coins, struck almost 900 years ago, has fetched £1,500 at auction.
The “very rare” silver penny was struck some time after 1136, in the reign of King David I.
The coin showed a profile bust of the King holding a sceptre, and a cross with fleurs de lis on the reverse.
It went under the hammer at Noonans auctioneers in London, where it attracted international interest. It was sold to a bidder in Scotland, after a bidding battle.
King David I was the first Scottish monarch to issue coins, following the capture of Carlisle in Northumbria, which gave him the city’s mint and nearby silver mines.
The silver penny sold is thought to have been struck in Berwick — then part of Scotland — or Roxburgh in the Borders or possibly in Edinburgh.
Jim Brown, Noonans’ coin specialist, said: “The David I silver penny was the first coin made in Scotland and shows the king holding a sceptre.
“It sold at its top estimate of £1500 to a Scottish collector and we are very pleased that it is going home during the 900th anniversary year of David I’s Coronation.”
The coin was among the highlights of a large collection spanning the history of the Scottish coinage from King David I to Queen Anne, who was on the throne when the Edinburgh Mint produced its last batch in 1709.
David 1 Silver penny PHOTO Noonans
Scottish art on sale in Edinburgh on Wednesday
Paintings spanning 300 years by some of Scotland’s leading artists could fetch more than £1 million at an auction in Edinburgh on Wednesday.
Bonhams Scottish Art Sale includes work ranging from 18th century portraitist Sir Henry Raeburn and 19th century Glasgow Boy Edward Atkinson Hornel to the four Scottish Colourists and the late Joan Eardley, John Bellany and Paisley polymath John Byrne to living artists including Peter Howson, Jack Vettriano and Alison Watt,OBE, whose summer exhibition has just opened at Lévy Gordy Dayan in New York.
The sale is led by the only known self-portrait by Paul McPhail with his wife and fellow artist, Jenny Saville, a huge oil painting inspired by Michelangelo’s marble La Pieta in St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.
Mother & Child, which is expected to fetch £30,000-50,000, was painted by McPhail in 1992, shortly after the completion of the couple’s studies at the Glasgow School of Art, and depicts the artist in the arms of his partner, and now wife, Saville.
The giant 183cm x 172.5cm oil on canvas was also painted in the same year that Saville painted her own self-portrait Propped, which later made £9.5 million at auction in 2018.
Leo Webster, Picture Specialist at Bonhams Edinburgh, said: “We are delighted to be offering this work in the Scottish Art Sale alongside an exceptional selection of works from rare pieces by artist and playwright, John Byrne, to outstanding works by the Scottish Colourists.”
Work by all four of the Colourists – George Leslie Hunter, Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, Samuel John Peploe and John Duncan Fergusson – will be offered in the sale.
Among the highlights are three still life paintings spanning Hunter’s career as well as Peploe’s landscape painting of “New Abbey, Dumfriesshire”, estimated at £25,000-35,000 and Cadell’s rare Ben Cruachan across the Sound of Mull, which could make £30,000-50,000.
The sale, which also coincides with the 150th anniversary of the birth of painter and sculptor Fergusson, includes his 1914 portrait “Head of a Girl”, which is expected to fetch £20,000-30,000, and several of his sketches on paper.
Rare works by Scots artist and playwright Byrne, who died last year aged 83, include Study of a Rabbit, from 1960, valued at £8000-10,000, and a portrait of Bomba from Tutti Frutti in ink, gouache and gesso on card, which could make £800-1200.
A small Glasgow painting of “Children playing and boarded up shop” by Joan Eardley could fetch £20,000-30,000, while Alison Watt’s large portrait “The Cherubic One” is also estimated at £20,000-30,000.
Some of the most recent paintings in the sale are three studies by Jack Vettriano completed in the mid 2000s, including The Illustrated Man (£15,000-20,000), the Awful Truth (£12,000-18,000) and The Man in the Navy Suit (£8000-12,000).
May Matthews, Bonhams managing director, Scotland, said: “The beauty of working within the Scottish Art market is we have everything from (Sir Henry) Raeburn and (Allan) Ramsay right up to (Jack) Vettriano and Alison Watt.”
“The Scottish Art Sale represents a great span of the centuries and of genre. There is something for every collector in this sale. It is a real pleasure to view and I would urge the public to do so.”
The Scottish Art sale at Bonhams Edinburgh
May Matthews with FRANCIS CAMPBELL BOILEAU CADELL RSA RSW (1883-1937)
Ben Cruachan across the Sound of Mull signed ‘F.C.B.Cadell’ (lower right), inscribed and initialled ‘Absorbent Ground – never varnish – F.C.B.C. (verso) oil on panel
38 x 45cm (14 15/16 x 17 11/1 6in).
£30,000 – 50,000
€35,000 – 59,000
US$37,000 – 62,000
Leo Webster with
JOHN CRAVEN
65
GEORGE LESLIE HUNTER (1877-1931)
Still life with roses in a Chinese blue and white jar signed ‘Hunter’ (lower right)
oil on canvas
49 x 39cm (19 5/16 x 15 3/8in).
Painted c. 1916
£40,000 – 60,000
€47,000 – 70,000
US$50,000 – 75,000
Rebecca Bohle with
Head of a girl John Duncan Ferguson
Danny McIlwraith with
Samuel Peploe New Abbey Dumfriesshire
PHOTO Alan Simpson
The Scottish Art sale at Bonhams Edinburgh
May Matthews with
Head of a girl John Duncan Fergusson
£20,000-£30,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
The Scottish Art sale at Bonhams Edinburgh
Rebecca Bohle with
Head of a girl John Duncan Ferguson
£20,000-£30,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
The Scottish Art sale at Bonhams Edinburgh
PHOTO Alan Simpson May Matthews and Leo Webster
The only recorded self-portrait of Paul McPhail with fellow artist, Jenny Saville, to whom he is married,
PAUL MCPHAIL (BORN 1966)
“Mother & Child’
titled, dated, signed and inscribed with the artist’s address ‘1992/Paul McPhail’ (verso)’, further signed and dated by the artist (verso) oil on canvas
183 x 172.5cm (72 x 68in).
£30,000 – 50,000
€35,000 – 59,000
US$37,000 – 62,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
May Matthews with
JOHN BYRNE (1940-2023)
The Rabbit (1969)
signed ‘Patrick’ (lower right), further titled and signed (to backboard, verso)
oil on panel
59.5 x 75cm (23 7/16 x 29 1/2in).
£8,000 – 12,000
Û9,400 – 14,000
US$10,000 – 15,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
GEORGE LESLIE HUNTER (1877-1931)
Peonies in a Japanese jar signed ‘Hunter’ (upper left)
oil on canvas
55.9 x 45.7cm (22 x 18in).
Painted circa 1913-16
£20,000 – 30,000
Û23,000 – 35,000
US$25,000 – 37,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
FRANCIS CAMPBELL BOILEAU CADELL RSA RSW (1883-1937) Ben Cruachan across the Sound of Mull signed ‘F.C.B.Cadell’ (lower right), inscribed and initialled ‘Absorbent Ground – never varnish – F.C.B.C. (verso) oil on panel 38 x 45cm (14 15/16 x 17 11/1 6in). £30,000 – 50,000 Û35,000 – 59,000 US$37,000 – 62,000
PHOTO Alan Simpson
Rare Bonnie Prince Betty print is sold
A VERY rare 18th century print of Bonnie Prince Charlie dressed as an Irish maid fetched £1,100 at auction in Edinburgh.
The mezzotint print showed the Young Pretender in disguise as Jacobite heroine Flora MacDonald’s maid Betty Burke after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Flora famously helped Charles evade Hanoverian troops by taking him, in disguise as Betty, by boat from Benbecula “over the sea to Skye”, from where he was able to return to the mainland and make his escape to France.
The print, by portraitist John M Williams, produced later in 1746, shows Bonnie Prince Charlie in Betty’s dress and bonnet.
The rare portrait went under the hammer at Bonhams as one of the highlights of the David McFarlan Collection of antiques and other rare objects, where it was sold to an online bidder.
Gordon McFarlan, Director, Bonhams Scotland, said: “After his defeat at Culloden, Prince Charles went on the run with a £30,000 bounty on his head — the equivalent of around £1 million today. Despite this enormous sum, nobody turned him in.
“In one of the most famous episodes, Charles was aided by Flora MacDonald, who helped him sail to Skye disguised as her maid Betty Burke. This satirical print was produced shortly afterwards.”
Charles Edward Stuart — Bonnie Prince Charlie — led the romantic but ill-fated Jacobite Uprising of 1745 to restore the Stuart monarchy to the throne. Following his defeat at Culloden on 16 April 1746, he went into hiding.
The part that Flora MacDonald played in the escape was immortalised in the “Skye Boat Song”, published in 1884.
Despite his renowned pretty looks and the ultimate success of his disguise as Betty Burke, it is said that Charles was unconvincing as a woman, and joked that if the soldiers searched him, they would find more than pistols about his body.
Bonnie Prince Charlie as Betty Burke Saltire News and Sport Ltd Bonnie Prince Charlie as Betty BurkeBonnie Prince Charlie as Betty Burke
Health Walks pave way for mental health conversations in Edinburgh
Scottish walking charity shines spotlight on walking and mental wellness
SCOTLAND’s walking charity is supporting the Scottish Health Walk Network (SHWN) to raise awareness of mental health and encourage open conversations during Mental Health Awareness Week.
Paths for All has been working closely with a group of SHWN members to design and deliver a mental health campaign.
The campaign will offer the network a range of useful tools and resources to acknowledge, celebrate and enable discussions around mental health during Health Walks in the Edinburgh area.
It is hoped that the campaign will inspire longer-term conversations beyond Mental Health Awareness Week to reduce stigma, and promote safe, welcoming and accessible opportunities to move more for wellbeing.
Kevin Lafferty, CEO of Paths for All, said: “Walking has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, and these walks provide a supportive environment for open and honest conversations about mental wellbeing.”
“By equipping the network with resources and tools, we hope to encourage more discussions around mental health and further raise awareness of this important issue.
“With Mental Health Awareness week also happening during the National Walking Month of May, it’s relevant more than ever to encourage Scots to get out walking.”
The campaign is part of Paths for All’s ongoing collaboration with Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) on raising awareness and engagement of SHWN members with the Scottish Mental Health Charter. The Charter aims to change attitudes around mental health and encourage more organizations to promote mental wellbeing.
For the Scottish Health Walk Network, the Charter will support members to design and deliver Health Walks which are even more inclusive of those living with mental health problems.
Robert Nesbitt, Head of Physical Activity and Sport at SAMH said: “We are proud to work collaboratively with Paths for All to reduce barriers to walking for people and communities.
“Recognising the power of walking, together we are creating accessible tools and resources with the Scottish Health Walk Network, so they can continue to play their part in supporting the physical, mental and social health of the people of Scotland.“
The Scottish Health Walk Network is a membership network designed by Paths for All, accrediting and supporting Health Walk provider throughout Scotland. It brings together over 400 organisations with the common goal of creating supportive environments to offer safe, welcoming, accessible walks that meet best practice standards.
Elaine McWilliams is a Group Development Worker at Stepping Stones, a mental health charity supporting people across the West Dunbartonshire area and has been part of the co-working groups supporting Paths for All in developing the campaign.
Elaine said: “We get over 800 referrals every year and currently have 600 active cases and we understand that one size does not fit all when it comes to providing support.
“Walking groups have been part of our services for over 10 years and we have seen it play a massive role in allowing people to be part of a social group and connect with others, allowing people to build confidence.
“This campaign is extremely important to help Health Walk organisers to understand how they can help and start open conversations about mental health and wellbeing up and down the country.”
Paths for All’s mission is to create opportunities for everyone in Scotland to stay active through walking, wheeling, scooting or cycling, contributing to a happier, healthier, and greener Scotland.
For more information about Paths for All’s work with the Scottish Health Walk Network and the Scottish Mental Health Charter, visit: www.pathsforall.org.uk
New tartan registered to mark Edinburgh’s 900th anniversary
A NEW tartan has been created to mark 900 years since Edinburgh was made a royal burgh.
The “Edinburgh 900” tartan includes shades of blue, brown, pink and white to reflect the Scottish capital as “a city of diversity”.
The City of Edinburgh Council commissioned Leith-based Kinloch Anderson Ltd to create the design, which has now been lodged in the official Scottish Register of Tartans.
Registration notes state: “This tartan was designed for City of Edinburgh Council and the Edinburgh 900 celebrations taking place in the city in 2024, which mark 900 years since Edinburgh became a royal burgh.
“This colourway is based on the sett of the original City of Edinburgh tartan and the palette references one of the ten celebratory themes, the 21st century – Edinburgh as a city of diversity.”
King David I created royal burghs as part of his efforts to reform the nation’s economic and political structures.
Edinburgh was one of the first royal burghs, along with Berwick, Dunfermline, Roxburgh and Stirling.
While there is no surviving founding Edinburgh charter, an 1127 Dunfermline Abbey royal charter refers to “my burgh of Edinburgh”.
The city will launch a programme of celebratory events this summer including exhibitions, talks and tours.
THE EDINBURGH 900 TARTAN
Council to scrap library fines permanently
Overdue book fines are to be permanently scrapped by Edinburgh libraries – as the council prepares to write off almost £50,000 owed by library users.
Since the pandemic no overdue fines have been issued in the capital, and now the local authority will join a growing number across Scotland to completely do away with them.
Council officers said the charges are “increasingly viewed as being out of step with a modern, accessible, and welcoming service” and the move could result in increased use of a more “equal” service and help tackle poverty.
If approved by councillors this week, £49,390 outstanding on the libraries management system will be wiped. Due to an existing annual income target for overdue fees, a £114k hole will be created in the authority’s budget.
Prior to the Covid-19 lockdown and resulting closure of libraries, customers were charged 30p a day if a borrowed item was not returned on time, rising to 35p after seven days.
It is hoped that scrapping the penalties will encourage more people to return their late library stock as reports suggest they are “more likely to return their long overdue books to the library without the threat of an overdue fine,” a report said, “and that the practice of levying overdue fines has the opposite effect to what was intended with customers holding on to books because they cannot afford to pay the costs.”
There are currently around 10,000 Edinburgh library books recorded as lost or missing, however this is down from 16,156 in 2019-20 when fines were last charged.
The council said it will “capitalise on the decision to abolish fines” by running a “high-profile communications campaign to encourage lapsed users to return to the library and new customers to join”.
The matter will go before a committee meeting this Thursday.
A report to councillors stated: “Overdue fines have been increasingly viewed as being out of step with a modern, accessible, and welcoming service and in recent years, a growing number of local authorities have taken the decision to permanently end fines for customers. In Scotland, 22 services have abolished fines with a further three suspending them until further notice.
“Evidence suggests fines act as a barrier to access for those who are least able to pay the charges with those who are from lower income households more likely to avoid use of the service which in turn has a wider impact on social disadvantage e.g. digital and social inequality.
“The removal of fines could help to tackle the poverty agenda and promote inclusivity by improving access to service for those who are most in need but who are most likely to be deterred by the potential of a financial penalty.
“Libraries will continue to issue automatic electronic reminders to users for due and overdue items “to act as a prompt for the timely return of items”.
by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter
Dalmeny duo keep Royal and Sun Alliance in the shade
Dalmeny Estate Golf Club edged Royal & Sun Alliance by a point in their annual match played in glorious conditions over the links course on the edge of the River Forth near South Queensferry.
The match was on a knife edge but the final pair of Andy Allan and Kevin Ferguson held their nerve to gain a vital half to secure victory in the 89th year of the encounter.
Ferguson had an interesting round. Playing his third shot to the green on the long fifth he ended up below the bug tree which sits next to the green. When he got there he found the ball had ended up in a pheasant next.
And Ian Arthur, playing the Dalmeny-based course for the first time, fired his second shot from the eighth fairway to the wrong green. His ball ended up just short of the ninth, next to Dalmeny House.
His opponents were so immersed in conversation that they hadn’t noticed that Ian had played to the wrong green.
However, his tricky third shot landed on the eighth green and he bravely sunk his put to win the hole with a four, net three.
Results: Dalmeny Estate Golf Club names first: Robin Hulett and Martin McCuish bt Matt Edwards and Andy Watson 4 and 3; Mark Cottle and Tom Pithie bt Chris Jackson and Callum Jackson 2 and 1; Andy Allan and Kevin Ferguson halved with Ian Scott and Scott Preston; Colin Campbell and Doug Wylie lost to Kenny Fegans and Ian Arthur 5 and 4; Alan Gibson and Chris McPhee lost to Ian Fraser and Collins Moffat 3 and 2; Willie Ruffle and Ian Souza bt George Gray and Ian Ross 5 and 4.
Meanwhile, Ricky Simpson, using a five hybrid, won the One Club event with a net 80, edging Willie Ruffle by a shot with Andy Allan third with a net 84.
Club secretary Ruffle confirmed that the One Club competition is played at Dalmeny to honour Holmes Chapel-born, the late Sir Henry Cotton, a three-time Open champion (1934, 1937 and 1948), who was a great friend of the 6th Earl Rosebery and spent many a timne as a guest at Dalmeny House.
Ruffle added: “During one of his stays, Sir Henry sited new trees on the golf course, thereby lengthening it considerably. The new par for the course was made by Sir Henry using a 7 iron and we have carried on the tradition every since.”
For the record, Ruffle has won the event on several occasions, but not this time.
PICTURE: The teams before the off at Dalmeny Estate
PRIZE GUY: Ricky Simpson proudly holds the One Club silverware
The Culture & Communities Committee will hear about council plans to use the Ross Bandstand.
In brief, the plans are that it will be left for the Director of Place – Paul Lawrence who is about to take over as new Council Chief Executive – to negotiate any programme for August 2024 under delegated powers.
There is also a draft programme – which arises from the council deciding that there would only be certain major events held in Princes Street Gardens – including the Edinburgh International Festival which is not going to use its slot this year or next year.
Council officers regard this as an opportunity to allow the gardens to be “animated sensitively and flexibly during the summer”.
The Edinburgh Tartan Parade was launched at the weekend by the Depute Lord Provost, Cllr Lezley Marion Cameron (photographed centre above).
The event will take place next year on 10 May which is World Fair Trade Day. This is no coincidence as the main organiser of the parade is Tania Pramschufer who devised the World Fair Trade Tartan – which you can see various people wearing above – including the piper to the Lord Provost, Louise Marshall.
Anyone may now register to take part (that part is free).
Edinburgh Festival of Cycling (EDFOC) will take place from 31 May to 9 June 2024. EdFoC aims to challenge people’s perception of what cycling is and to put Edinburgh on the map as an international cycling destination.
One of the events is the Bikes for Refugees (Scotland) BIG Charity Auction. The charity provides new Scots refugees and asylum seekers with mobility and freedom of movement with free bikes. The charity says: “Bikes empower individuals and families to explore their new communities, connect with services, boost their physical and mental health, and to meet new people.”
The auction goes live on 31 May and closes at midnight when EdFoC does on 9 June.
AND if you have anything which could be an auction prize then get in touch with Tom before 31 May. bfrscotland@gmail.com
The Edinburgh Reporter print edition is published monthly on the 1st of the month. To make sure of your copy subscribe by clicking on this month’s front page below.
Council makes a u-turn on charges for taxi drivers outing
Edinburgh taxi drivers will no longer be charged by the council to use The Royal Mile on their annual outing.
The cab drivers organising this year’s Edinburgh Taxi Outing in June were quoted a figure understood to be around £1,500 to have planters blocking traffic on the High Street temporarily moved.
Following calls for any fees for the long-running event to be waived, the local authority had said they would be free to shift the large boxes themselves or alter their route by turning left down Cockburn Street. Cockburn Street
However, announcing the u-turn today, council leader Cammy Day said there would be no charge and said the issue “has now been resolved”.
Taxi Outing secretary Keith Bell said: “I was confident this was just a bureaucratic misunderstanding and that once the relevant people became involved the matter would be sorted, and I’m glad it has.”
It is understood that earlier in the week organisers were told the cost could be reduced to £400..
In an initial letter the council told them events wishing to use a route which requires planters to be moved – including the much-loved outing which marks its 77th year this year – then “costs for the work would be at the expense of that organiser”.
The Association of Hackney Carriage Drivers of the City of Edinburgh hit out in response, saying despite efforts to uplift the spirits of vulnerable children, “bureaucratic hurdles erected by the council” threatened to “undermine altruistic endeavours”.
The tradition sees the capital’s cabbies treat local youngsters with special needs, life-limiting conditions and terminal illnesses to a fun day out parading through the city in their balloon-clad taxis, soaking spectators with water pistols.
Originally the convoy, bound for Musselburgh for an ice cream stop and then East Lothian, travelled along Princes Street and Regent Road. However amid tram works the procession was directed along the Royal Mile, and this became the established route for the event. It was also a convenient place to drop off the Lord Provost en route.
The planters were first installed in 2020 as part of a range of measures to make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle during the pandemic, although the council had previously agreed to permanently close the High Street to traffic between North Bridge and St Mary’s Street.
Cllr Day said: “The taxi outing is a highlight every year for the children, drivers and public who love the fun spectacle – and the possibility of getting soaked! – as the cabs and young people travel through Edinburgh.
“It’s an unforgettable day out which lives long in the memories of all the children taking part so I asked officers to waive any fees that may be incurred for the removal of the planters, I’m pleased to say this has now been resolved.
“We recognise how important this annual charity event is for both the young people who take part and the drivers so I’m delighted that they’ll now be able to travel down the Royal Mile.”
by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter
75th Edinburgh Taxi Outing for kids-
Plans for summer events in Princes Street Gardens – maybe
The Culture & Communities Committee will hear about council plans to use the Ross Bandstand and raise some much needed income in the process.
In brief, the plans are that it will be left for the Director of Place – Paul Lawrence who is about to take over as new Council Chief Executive in June – to negotiate any programme for August 2024 under delegated powers – probably due to lack of time.
The Culture Committee only meets every couple of months and the next meeting is not until August.
There is a draft programme of events – which has only been made possible from the council deciding that there would only be certain major events held in Princes Street Gardens – including the Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) – and EIF confirming it will not use its slot this year or next. Council officers regard this as an opportunity to allow the gardens to be “animated sensitively and flexibly during the summer”.
Fifty years ago there was Scottish country dancing on Saturday evenings in the summer months, but that – surely the best representation of authentic Scottish entertainment – has long gone. It was revived a few years back, but the pandemic appears to have put a halt to it.
The Watchtower Group, the company which runs the Fly music events and which has used the gardens in the past, has approached the council expressing the wish to put on a programme of events from April to September. But the company did not want to pay the council’s approved charges, instead seeking a partnership arrangement. It is not clear if Watchtower remain involved in any 2024 programme.
If councillors agree on Thursday then a programme of events could be allowed during August, with final details left to the Executive Director, and subject to being shared with the Festival and Events All Party Oversight Group (APOG).
In future years events might take place in May, during the Summer Festivals (“low impact animation”), in September and also in the winter through Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay contracts.
Earlier this year the council looked into ways of charging a levy on events in the gardens and being able to contribute to a Gardens Fund. A report about this possibility will be discussed in August.
Rockfall
Council officers will continued to talk to Historic Environment Scotland (HES) about dealing with any rockfall from Edinburgh Castle Rock so that the entrance from King’s Stables Road can be opened again. HES have form here as they closed the Radical Road in Holyrood Park for similar reasons of safety, and have simply not reopened it.
The Quaich Project
The concept design for The Quaich Project
In 2016 it was planned to erect a new building in the gardens with the help of a £5 million donation from the boss of Apex Hotels, Norman Springford. These plans halted after an international architectural competition, and also much wrangling over the public use of the gardens versus any perceived private gain, and Mr Springford stepped back in 2020.
One positive which did come from Mr Springford’s philanthropy was that the Ross Fountain was overhauled in a £2 million project – something for everyone to enjoy over these last few years.
On quitting as chairman of the Quaich Project as it was known, Mr Springford, the founder of The Ross Development Trust, said in 2020: “Since we started this project there has been an underlying perception that our intentions are either commercial or to privatise the gardens. This is of course completely untrue.
“In particular, my motivations have been questioned. I believe that this has become a distraction to the project’s ambitions which are honourable and would ultimately benefit all of Edinburgh.
“It is for these reasons, that I have decided to take a step back to allow someone else to lead the project and to give it the best chance of being realised.
“The original vision, which continues to be held dear by the board and team, is purely to improve these loved but underfunded gardens.”
West Lothian Council has new way of cleaning streets
An industrial scale vacuum cleaner which sucks rubbish off the streets is the latest tool being deployed by West Lothian council crews.
Three new teams have been created – redeployed from existing staff – to work their way around towns and villages giving them a deep clean.
And the machine, branded the Glutton, is their secret weapon in the war on grime.
The council has invested £50,000 in three machines for the teams. The teams have already been at work clearing town centre areas in Armadale, Broxburn and Uphall, Bathgate, Linlithgow and Whitburn, as well as village centres in Blackburn, Blackridge, East Calder, Fauldhouse, Kirknewton, Longridge, Mid Calder, Seafield, Stoneyburn, Torphichen, West Calder and Winchburgh.
Gluttons are in use across the world as eco-friendly EV street cleaners able to clean street spaces that larger driven sweepers cannot.
Local area committees have been told about the roll out of the new teams. In his report to Livingston North Local Area Committee Simon Scott, an Open Spaces Manager with the council explained the role of the new teams.
“Three new teams, of two, have been created from existing resources. They will work through the main streets of all towns and villages in a cyclic manner.
“These teams will be deployed to provide additional cleansing on top of the routine litter picking and emptying of bins that is already carried out in these areas of high footfall.”
The Gluttons are capable of lifting small items such as cigarette ends and reaching hard to get at areas such as tree bases, around street furniture and road channels where there is no access for the mechanical sweeper.
The machines can also be used to loosen and remove detritus along the edge of footpaths and around street furniture. Removing weeds by scraping them out and lifting them.
This work will be additional to the current weed control carried out by the Grounds Maintenance Teams.
In addition the teams will also pressure wash street furniture, benches and street bins during the summer months.
Executive councillor for the environment and sustainability Tom Conn said: “It’s fantastic to see our new Cleaner Communities team are having an early impact on our town and village centres.
“We are investing nearly £3 million by the council across street cleansing and environmental enforcement during the next financial year, as part of a renewed focus on improving the environment in our busiest areas.
“It’s great to see the positive results of our staff using Glutton machines is already being noticed by some local residents, with the areas where the machines have been used noticeably cleaner and tidier.
“A small investment in the right equipment like this can make a real difference, and enable our staff to have the greatest impact with the limited resources available.”
In northern Livingston many of the road signs in northern Livingston are blackened by what is believed to be the deposit of fungal mould which is carried airborne from the nearby Glen Turner distillery.
The fungal mould, Baudoinia compniacensis is a byproduct of alcohol maturation where what is colloquially known as the Angel’s Share evaporates. The mould is found on buildings, vehicles and even plants around the distillery. It has been called whisky fungus.
Councillor Andrew Miller asked Mr Scott at the local area committee: “ I know the new team are more cleaning paths etc, but I think it’s obvious if you drive through the area that there’s a significant proportion of the road signage contaminated and black. I think we all have our own views on how this is happening, but are there any plans to get them cleaned up?”
Mr Scott replied: “I can take that back to colleagues in Roads Maintenance and highlight the concern.” Road sign maintenance is the responsibility of Roads department crews.
Chairing the committee Councillor Anne McMillan: “I’m looking forward to seeing these Gluttons in action because I’ve heard great things about them from colleagues.”
by Stuart Somerville Local Democracy Reporter
Royal patronage continues for Legion Scotland
King Charles III has been confirmed as the new patron of The Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland).
The charity has held Royal patronage since its foundation in 1921 and The King will be the fourth monarch to serve as patron of the Royal British Legion Scotland following his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and George VI and Edward VIII before her.
King Charles first joined the Armed Forces in 1971 to complete an advanced flying course with the RAF before joining the Navy. He subsequently served in a number of ranks and holds honorary titles across the Royal Navy, Army, and RAF. Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles became Commander in Chief of the British Armed Forces.
Dr Claire Armstrong OBE, Chief Executive Officer of RBLS, said: “As a charity, we are incredibly thankful for The King’s ongoing support as our new Patron.
“This announcement is extremely important to our membership. As veterans of the British Armed Forces, they swore an oath to the monarch, their heirs, and their successors. This oath is of extreme value to our members, and the fact that The King has been announced as our patron signals to Scotland’s veterans’ community that their oath of allegiance is of equal importance to our monarchy. This is extremely valuable, and something we greatly appreciate.
“We thank the Palace for their engagement throughout this process, and we look forward to our future under the guidance of our new patron.”
Royal British Legion Wreath. Photo: Martin P. McAdam www.martinmcadam.com
The scourge of electric scooters
Police chiefs are facing fresh calls to clamp down on the illegal use of electric scooters after 16 recorded accidents in the last year.
Police Scotland said there were 16 accidents in the 12 months up to 31 March involving e-scooters, which are illegal to ride in a public place in Scotland, including any park or town centre, cycle lanes, footpaths or public roads. It is however permissible to ride them on land which is owned by the rider or on private land with permission from the landowner.
Despite the legal position, e-scooters can be bought legally and have become common in towns and cities across the Lothians and Scotland as a whole, sparking concerns about pedestrian safety.
Police Scotland has been criticised repeatedly for failing to enforce the law, with riders of all ages openly flouting the ban, and have insisted that they are not a major issue nationally.
Scottish Conservative deputy justice spokesperson, Sharon Dowey MSP, said: “We know that these scooters could cause accidents and put the public at risk, so it is concerning that their use is becoming more widespread.
“The use of these scooters is illegal and the SNP must provide our police force with the resources they need to stop these crimes and prevent more accidents.”
Unlike in parts of England there are no trial schemes in Scotland, yet youngsters well below driving age are routinely seen riding them in public.
Police Scotland said local divisions across Scotland do carry out operations in relation to e-scooters and related anti-social behaviour within communities.
In a Freedom of Information (FOI) response, they said: “Initiatives to tackle misuse are generally local ones in response to specific challenges and they are generally undertaken by divisional officers, supported by roads policing colleagues where appropriate.”
E-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs) so they are treated as motor vehicles and are subject to the same legal requirements as any other motor vehicle, requiring insurance, a valid driving licence, and compliance with various construction and use requirements.
Use of the machines, which can hit up to 30mph – faster if modified – have resulted in a number of injuries.
In September, a dad criticised reckless e-scooter riders who left his young son in hospital with cuts and bruises after a high speed hit and run in Dundee, while in April last year a man was taken to hospital after a two vehicle crash involving an electric scooter in Edinburgh.
In August an electric scooter crash in Oban, Argyll, led to two men being taken to hospital, with one believed seriously injured, while in July two 15-year-olds were reported to the Youth Justice Assessor in connection with a single vehicle crash in Monifieth, Angus. The 15-year-old rider was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “E-scooters can only be legally used on private land with permission from the landowner.
“Their illegal use can impact local communities and anyone with concerns should contact us so an appropriate policing response can be provided. We also urge anyone purchasing an e-scooter to be aware of the law and the implications of using one in a public place.”
At the City Art Centre – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path
The first major retrospective of work by Adam Bruce Thomson, OBE, in a public gallery is now open at the City Art Centre.
There are more than 100 artworks in the exhibition drawn from public and private collections including the National Galleries of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy.
Thomson (1885-1976) was born in Edinburgh and was among the earliest intake of students at Edinburgh College of Art. Later the artist taught at the College for forty years.
His own work features a range of media including printmaking, drawing in pastels, and painting in oils and watercolours.
The exhibition’s curator, Dr Helen Scott said: “Adam Bruce Thomson was such a talented, versatile artist, who remains mostly unknown, even in his native Edinburgh. Despite making a significant impact on 20th century Scottish art, he was extremely modest about his achievements, and has become something of an art historical footnote, overshadowed by bigger names. For this exhibition I’ve been privileged to gain access to rare archival material and artworks held in private collections, helping me piece together the story of his life and career. I’m excited to share these discoveries with visitors to the exhibition, giving Adam Bruce Thomson the attention he deserves.”
The exhibition is accompanied by a book – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path (Sansom & Company, 2024) ‑ written by Dr Helen Scott with a foreword by Sir Alexander McCall Smith CBE, who says: “Attention to the work of Adam Bruce Thomson is long overdue and much welcomed. Helen Scott is to be thanked for reminding us of a very fine artist who has not received the attention he is undoubtedly due.”
Pic Greg Macvean 10/05/2024
City Art Centre – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path 11th May – 6th OctoberPic Greg Macvean 10/05/2024
City Art Centre – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path 11th May – 6th OctoberPic Greg Macvean 10/05/2024
City Art Centre – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path 11th May – 6th OctoberPic Greg Macvean 10/05/2024
City Art Centre – Adam Bruce Thomson: The Quiet Path 11th May – 6th October
Mavisbank House saved for the nation
Mavisbank has been saved for the nation after a grant of £5.3 million will pay for its restoration.
The house is 300 years and 50 years the building almost burned to the ground.
Campaigners have laboured for decades to save the architectural gem, Mavisbank in Midlothian, Scotland, from collapse following the catastrophic fire. Its terrible condition and its uncertain ownership have left this ‘Category A’ masterpiece in a derelict and highly perilous state.
The National Heritage Memorial Fund has awarded the major grant to the Landmark Trust towards the rescue and stabilisation of Mavisbank.
This grant will enable Landmark to safeguard the house.
Kelly Parry, Midlothian Council Leader Councillor said: “We have long supported the opportunity to restore Mavisbank House, so this is wonderful news. Once the full funding package is in place, we will use our compulsory purchase powers to help secure a future for this important building.”
The Landmark Trust and Midlothian Council will pursue the Compulsory Purchase of Mavisbank, before Landmark embarks on the complete preservation of the standing remains. A second phase is planned to involve the restoration of the house with extensive opportunities for people to learn traditional skills and follow the work in progress. The end use is expected to be a mixture of accommodation for short residential stays and public access, including regular free open days.
Dr Anna Keay OBE, Director of the Landmark Trust said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Mavisbank has hung by little more than a thread for so long, with demolition seriously contemplated on more than one occasion. The Landmark Trust is absolutely thrilled that through this grant from the National Heritage Memorial Fund, and the support and expertise of many others, we can start the process of saving it.”
Anna Eavis, Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund panel added: “Mavisbank House is a building of outstanding importance to Scottish and UK national heritage and the National Heritage Memorial Fund is delighted to make this award to save it from being lost forever. This funding will enable the Landmark Trust to acquire Mavisbank House and safeguard the historic fabric of the Category A building, laying the foundations for a sustainable and brighter future.”
Mavisbank House, just outside Edinburgh, was built by celebrated Scottish architect William Adam in 1723. The house was a summer residence for John Clerk of Penicuik, a leading figure of the Scottish Enlightenment, and signatory of the Act of Union (1707), whose European travels provided the inspiration for its design. Mavisbank was a pioneering example of a neo-Classical style which William Adam’s son Robert Adam and others would develop for Edinburgh’s New Town a generation later. Mavisbank was built by a workforce of outstanding Scottish craftspeople whose names and individual contributions are recorded in remarkable detail in the surviving archive.
To donate or to find out more, including to read a detailed history of Mavisbank House, visit Landmark’s website:
(L-R) Tom Ingres-Counter, Senior Investment Manager National Lottery Heritage Fund, Kelly Parry (SNP) Leader of the Midlothian Council, Dr Anna Keay OBE Director of the Landmark Trust, Anna Eavis Trustee and Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund Panel, Owen Thompson MP and Vanessa Wells Head of the National Memorial Fund.
(L-R) Tom Ingres-Counter, Senior Investment Manager National Lottery Heritage Fund, Kelly Parry (SNP) Leader of the Midlothian Council, Dr Anna Keay OBE Director of the Landmark Trust, Anna Eavis Trustee and Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund Panel, Owen Thompson MP and Vanessa Wells Head of the National Memorial Fund.
(L-R) Tom Ingres-Counter, Senior Investment Manager National Lottery Heritage Fund, Kelly Parry (SNP) Leader of the Midlothian Council, Dr Anna Keay OBE Director of the Landmark Trust, Anna Eavis Trustee and Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund Panel, Vanessa Wells Head of the National Memorial Fund and Owen Thompson MP
Tickets are available for Songs of Praise which is taking place in Edinburgh on 28 May.
A spokesperson said: “Join Scottish singer-songwriter Steph MacLeod as we come together for a celebration of modern Christian music at Charlotte Chapel in Shandwick Place.”
The event is suitable for all ages, and tickets are free.
Barrie McKay picked up a loose ball near halfway eight minutes into the second half, looked up and, in the blink of an eye, sent it slightly to his left, a move which split the determined Dundee defence.
Busy Alan Forrest was the recipient of the inch-perfect pass and did not have to break his stride before touching it with his right foot to evade the rapidly advancing Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken, and driving towards goal, before caressing the ball into the back of the net with his left foot.
It was a sublime moment, arguably the best move of the game, in a fine performance by Hearts who now move on to 66 points in the conch Premiership, 11 ahead of Kilmarnock who edged St Mirren 1-0 in Paisley.
As the clock ticked down towards injury time a neat pass, this time from substitute Scott Fraser, deeper inside the Dundee half, was gobbled up by Lawrence Shankland.
The inevitable happened. Goal No 3 for Hearts as the ball nestled in the back of the Dundee net and the points were secured.
Earlier, Kenneth Vargas had opened the scoring after 35 minutes, steering the ball home after McKay had lifted a cross to the back post from the left edge of the box. VAP confirmed that the Costa Rican striker was onside.
Steven Naismith, Hearts’ head coach, was pleased with the performance and the clean sheet. He added: “When we started moving the ball quicker in the second half we created more chances and scored some good goals.”
Tony Docherty, Dundee’s manager, felt the game hinged on a decision by referee Nick Walsh not to award a penalty against Hearts’ defender Stephen Kingsley when the score was 1-0.
He also indicated that his men had chances which they failed to take but added: “Hearts are a very good team and Steven has done a fantastic job here, but I’m not pleased with the goals we conceded, particularly the first two.”
Nest up for Hearts is a trip to St Mirren on Wednesday (19.45) before their final game of the season at home to Rangers on Saturday (12.30).
PICTURE: Kenneth Vargas celebrates scoring
North Edinburgh Community Festival – a ray of sunshine
This was the third year of the North Edinburgh Community Festival – free family friendly fun in West Pilton Park – and it was the third year of good weather for the event.
More than 100 organisations took part with information about the services they can provide and how everyone could get involved with them. From housing associations to political representatives, North Edinburgh Arts and police and armed services, Spokes, Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust. There truly was something for everyone.
The person who had the initial idea for the festival and parade, Willie Black, had his sleeves rolled up when we caught up with him. Willie was pleased to see so many people attend, estimating there were around 8,000 throughout the day.
Willie Black clearing up the rubbish during the event
The music stage had a constant audience, with Fischy Music earlier and the Ukrainian Children’s Choir later on.
Inside the Neighbourhood Centre the Youth Stage proved popular with many local acts performing and there was a Games Club showcase – an exhibition of games made by young designers.
And there were stalls for other festivals such as the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival and the Book Festival.
Edinburgh Science Festival L-R Summer (12) and Saoirse (11) were enjoying having their hair braided Saoirse (11) was enjoying having her hair braided Emelia had her face painted and then hair braided – the hairdresser was so fast!L-R Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Deidre Brock MP for Edinburgh North and Leith and Cllr Stuart Dobbin (Forth Ward)Edinburgh Science Festival were demonstrating science magicFun in the sun at the North Edinburgh Community Festival The music stage was popularThe Ukrainian Children’s ChoirThe Ukrainian Children’s ChoirThe Ukrainian Children’s ChoirRhythms of India
Cornel West leads Edinburgh march
Dr Cornel West led the Healthcare Workers for Palestine march from the Mound Plaza on Saturday, adding his high profile to a call for ceasefire in Gaza.
Healthcare Workers for Palestine is a US-based organisation which states on its Instagram profile that it stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Dr West, the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Professor of Philosophy & Christian Practice, Union Theological Seminary, New York, is in town to present the Gifford Lectures for The University of Edinburgh. He is a musician and spoken word artist as well as an academic – and incidentally the independent candidate for the Presidential election in the US.
On Friday at a student led demo held at the East End he said: “You know and I know that this is a global awakening. I am the first to say that my own government suffers from moral bankruptcy by enabling genocide and by enabling ethnic cleansing. If these were Jewish brothers and sisters that this was happening to, we would be here raising our voices.”
There is a Royal Society of Edinburgh Seminar which will be held on Wednesday – Jazz soaked philosophy in our catastrophic times – sadly sold out but there is a waitlist for tickets.
Hillend plans will have to be revised
Ambitious plans to turn Midlothian’s ski centre into a top visitors attraction have been dealt another blow as councillors agreed to go back to the drawing board over its design.
Cost have soared at Destination Hillend since it was first agreed four years ago from £13.8million to £37million.
Last year the local authority approved a revised business plan which reduced the cost to £31 million by scrapping proposals for a glamping site and agreeing to charge people who use its new 412-space car park.
But a meeting of the council yesterday was told that the spiralling costs of construction meant it was time to look at the project again and find ways to make further cuts to costs.
Councillors were asked to agree the new building contract for the site would not go forward.
Instead they were asked to approve a “revised replacement to reduce the footprint of the building with a focus on facilities essential to the wider business case in order to protect the level of revenue to be generated on site.”
A report to members added: “The extent of saving to be made is currently being reviewed by the design team and will be presented to council in the form of a revision to the business case once this exercise is complete.”
When it was first approved in 2019 the original £13.8million council investment was meant to see the redevelopment of the Hillend ski centre, which has the longest dry ski slope in the UK, and included a promise to create the highest zip wire in the UK and create an activity dome, hotel accommodation, a glamping site for wigwams, and shopping and food retail areas.
In 2021 the amount set aside in the capital budget was £24.68m and the hotel plans were scrapped.
Midlothian Council has said Destination Hillend will create around 150 jobs during construction and up to 157 jobs from when the facility is finished adding the project is forecast to bring in just over £1 million a year to the council, helping support other council services and benefiting the wider local economy by up to £3.8million.
At this week’s meeting the changes were put forward as part of a revised Capital Plan Prioritisation.
Councillors were told the Covid pandemic, Brexit and global conflicts had played a part in increasing construction costs with tenders for council projects returning at prices 30 per cent higher than expected.
The report said: “Recognising that in this environment it will not be possible to deliver the agreed plan within the available resources a review to establish options to deliver the council’s priorities has been undertaken. It is proposed to focus the resources we have on our priorities and critical building projects.”
While Hillend’s main building is reviewed, councillors agreed the plan would move forward with school extensions at Bilston and Mauricewood Primaries, and at Hawthornden and Mount Esk to provide dedicated Additional Support Needs provision for Lasswade Community High School and relocate Mount Esk Early Learming Centre provision to Hawthornden Primary school.
by Marie Sharp, Local Democracy Reporter.
Cala begin building second development in South Queensferry
House builder Cala Homes (East) has begun building on the Rosebery Wynd site in South Queensferry.
There will be a selection of one, two and three bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom townhouses created in the Royal burgh.
The builder highlights the green space around the development, but conveniently situated just ten minutes from the High Street.
All homes are also designed to be energy efficient and offer low maintenance living.
Kim Newbigging, Regional Sales Manager at Cala Homes (East), said: “We are delighted to have now launched Rosebery Wynd in South Queensferry. It is an exciting new development and part of a vibrant new community within this sought-after area.
“Our South Queensferry communities have always proved to be popular with families and downsizers alike thanks to the wide range of properties we have on offer, and Rosebery Wynd is no different.
“The location provides the perfect blend of everything you need for a balanced mix of urban city living and coastal life, with plenty of walking and cycling routes along the picturesque Firth of Forth coastline and fantastic commuter links to Edinburgh city centre.
“It’s the perfect place for first-time buyers looking to step away from the Edinburgh rental market, couples who are hoping to grow their families and those who are eager to downsize while staying within easy each of the city.
“We expect demand to be high, so I would urge anyone who is interested in making a move to South Queensferry to get in touch with our sales consultants and discover what Cala can offer them.”
This is the second development in South Queensferry with another already up for sale at Queensferry Heights with two show homes on view.
Prices at Rosebery Wynd start from £195,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, £290,000 for a two-bedroom terraced/semi-detached home and £389,000 for a three-bedroom townhouse.
Lenny Love adored music and following his death in February, the collection of vinyl which he gathered during his lifetime will be sold.
At an event organised by his friends The Lenny Love Vinyl Archive will be offered for sale at the Voodoo Rooms on Sunday 19 May from 2 to 5pm. All monies raised will be used to pay for the Lenny Love After Party which will also be held at Voodoo Rooms.
Tim Maguire is a long time friend who also introduced Lenny to becoming a celebrant. Tim said: “And It’s Goodbye to Love will be Lenny’s way of buying everyone a drink on his birthday. The idea is that people get together have a drink and talk about somebody they knew and loved. We will play music but it will be at a level so that people can talk over it. It could get exciting later if some dancers turn up. Lenny used to DJ for the Edinburgh Swing Society so there may be dancing, although it is not formally that.”
Love chose to do a David Bowie – he had requested a direct cremation when he died – so the party is also a way of friends getting together to lament his passing. Lenny died after a six month stay in hospital following a black out in September last year just after conducting a wedding ceremony at The Balmoral.
Nik Sutherland was a longtime friend, and also a DJ. He was one of the trio who started Vegas with Lenny and Ewan McNaught. Nik volunteered to go through the boxes of vinyl and Ewan – who now runs Voodoo Rooms has generously offered the space for the sale on 19 May. Nik suggested that Lenny just got into music by hanging out with the “cool music guys” in Stockbridge probably in the 70s, and then “punk happened just at the right time for him”.
Lenny was a Sony award-winning DJ working with Radio Forth, a humanist celebrant, and tour manager for Simple Minds. He discovered the Rezillos and set up his own record label Sensible Records in 1977 to set them on the road to fame. He worked in radio in Australia and on his return to Edinburgh worked at Vegas Night club as Dino Martini.
Nik explained that there are around 17 boxes of albums and 12 inch singles but “probably no hidden gems in there”, or hip hop or heavy metal, but these are “records for having a good time to because that’s what Lenny always enjoyed – having a good time”.
He said: “It is an interesting collection. Lenny was a DJ for his whole life and his collection reflects that and the kind of clubs he played like Disco Inferno and Vegas. There’s Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye and Bobby Womack. Then in the 12 inch singles there’s Kid Creole, and The Village People.
“Lenny’s record collection was very specific to Lenny and although I don’t think there are any rare gems, there are no major artists – no Beatles, no Rolling Stones, The Who, Nirvana or the Smiths. Lenny was interested in a lot of jazz, swing, blues, disco and soul. So there are loads of great records – but they will be of interest to record collectors.”
Grant Stott, the broadcaster and DJ, is a vinyl junkie and as a former Radio Forth colleague he will speak about Lenny at the party.
Grant said: “I think it will be a veritable treasure trove of hidden gems. Knowing Lenny there will be some amazing easy listening classics peppered with many, many groovy bangers. His music taste was vast – so much so I asked to DJ at my wedding. Anyone heading for a rummage through his collection will be guaranteed to be heading home with a gem or two.”
Bruce Findlay who owned Bruce’s Records on Rose Street, and who became manager for Simple Minds knew Love for around half a century.
Bruce said: “Lenny, was first and foremost, a friend. We first met in 1969 when I opened Bruce’s in Rose Street. Lenny loved cars, motorbikes…and music. Working for the coolest record label in the UK (Island Records) Lenny naturally had great taste and knowledge in all of the coolest and most popular artists at that time (1970s).
“Of course when the ‘indie’ scene exploded in 1976/7 Lenny started his own label, Sensible Records, signing the wonderful Rezillos which kick-started an explosion of ‘new wave’ Scottish artists going on to great things.
“His taste in music wasn’t confined to ‘pop’ music however and his love of ‘swing’ and jazz was there for all to see, and hear, when became a mainstay of the fantastic club nights …VEGAS…where Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald would take pride of place, all presented by ‘Dino Martini’ aka.. Lenny Love. He also of course presented his own show on Radio Forth where his eclectic taste in music was much ‘LOVE..d’. “I could go on and on about Lenny, but suffice it to say…I loved Lenny. He was my friend and I’m going to miss him.”
Lenny with Nik Sutherland
Derby memories rekindled – from a Hearts perspective
Stalwart Hearts wordsmith Alastair Stupart is poised to deliver his FOURTH book chronicling events based on the maroon half of the city.
Super-fan Alastair has chosen to analyse Hearts 17 game unbeaten run in the Edinburgh derby from 1983-87 in a book entitled “The Forgotten 17” that will be on sale later this summer with profits once again going to the Foundation of Hearts.
The first book by the prolific Alastar was entitled “Locked Out of our Hearts: Scottish football survives the pandemic.
This was followed by “We went by railway: 45 years of Jambo Away Days.”
Most recently Alastair penned “Playing Football the Gorgie Way.”
The Foundation of Hearts was founded in 2010 and has 800 members who contribute to the financial well-being of the club with approximately £17 million raised so far.
Naismith looking forward to Euro football next season
Steven Naismith believes it is important that his players recharge during their post-season break ahead of next season’s challenges which include European football.
Hearts’ head coach (pictured) said the schedule is really intense and said: “It takes a lot out of the players both mentally and physically, so the break provides a chance for them to relax and take their mind off it.”
Naismith was speaking at the press briefing ahead of Hearts’ home fixture in the cinch Premiership with Dundee at Tynecastle on Saturday (kick-off 15.00) which is followed by a trip to St Mirren in midweek.
The club’s domestic season finishes with a joust against Rangers at Tynecastle on May 18.
Naismith’s thoughts are also on Europe next season and he said: “We’ve got an opportunity with the qualifier to get into the Europa League and, ultimately, you want to play at the highest competition you can, against the best teams.
“Whatever happens, we have group stage European football. It is an opportunity for them to play on that stage and show what they have got.”
Finally, if you wish to move your seat then the window is open now.
Brown admits: ‘we weren’t good enough’
Cami Brown claimed referee Seth Perkins “got it wrong” as Stellar Monarchs snatched a Superheat win at Ashfield over Allied Vehicles Tigers after the BSN Series clash ended 45-45.
Glasgow Tigers’ team manager Brown claimed video evidence shows Tigers racer Chris Harris snatched a win on the line in the deciding heat.
Brown said: “It’s clear that Chris got it on the line, the referee got it wrong, but, to be honest, we weren’t good enough.”
The team boss has told two riders that they need to up their game and he said: “We just can’t get everyone firing on the same night. It’s not for the lack of trying.
“It was a great meeting, but it’s a results game for me. I need to get the team to win. That’s my job. We’ve got to go to Armadale and win to qualify from the BSN group.”
He added: “We’re not out of it yet. We will go there fired-up.”
Kemp and Etheridge steer Bandits to victory over Bears
Drew Kemp and Jye Etheridge teamed up to steer Berwick Jewson Bandits to a 47-43 win, their first victory at Redcar in nine years.
Team manager Stewart Dickson demanded an action replay of that form in the Borders on Saturday (tapes-up 7pm).
Kemp (pictured) and Etheridge helped inflict the fifth defeat of the season on the Bears and support came from captain Rory Schlein’s ten-point haul and young Danish rider Bastian Borke.
Indeed, only a shed chain after he had worked his way into a 5-1 position behind Schlein, denied Borke the chance to join Kemp at the head of the visitors’ score charts.
Charles Wright again led the way with four emphatic race wins for Bears but, crucially, he ran a last in Heat 13 as Schlein and guest Tom Brennan kept their side on course for the victory.
Berwick had to work hard for the win at the Ecco Arena and Bandits go into Saturday’s return with a warning – ringing from team manager Stewart Dickson.
He said: “The boys responded well after we had an earnest conversation during the Poole meeting and I am delighted for them and for the team as a whole. We’ve immediately righted the Pirates’ blemish.
“But it is important that we get consistency of performance week-in, week-out and there is no point doing all the hard work at Redcar and then letting it slip again in the return fixture.
“I’ll be stressing that it’s back to a blank canvas on Saturday and everyone needs to be focussed and concentrated again from Heat One.”
Bears: Charles Wright 12, Jonas Knudsen 3, Connor Bailey 5+2, Jason Edwards 7, Ben Barker 9+1, Jake Mulford 5, Ben Trigger 3+1
Berwick Jewson Bandits’ team manager Stewart Dickson set the bar high for the Borders outfit this weekend, ordering three points at Redcar Bears on Friday night and the same again at Shielfield Park on Saturday (tapes-up 7pm).
Well, his men completed the first part of the job with a fine 47-43 victory at Redcar with Drew Kemp top scoring with 11 for the visitors in this Cab Direct Championship clash and Charles Wright accumulating 12 for Bears.
Dickson (pictured) remains angry that Berwick let a ten-point lead slip against Poole Pirates at Shielfield last weekend, eventually losing by two points after a frantic Heat 15 involving guest Josh Pickering, home skipper Rory Schlein, Richard Lawson and Tom Brennan.
Lawson pulled off a superb pass on Berwick’s skipper to secure the second place needed to give the visitors victory and Lawson guests for crocked Berwick No 1 Lewis Kerr at Shielfield Park on Saturday.
He has already guested in two Bandits’ winning causes in addition to being responsible for their downfall against Poole.
Redcar also call in outside reinforcements with Ben Barker guesting for broken hand victim Danny King while his Plymouth team-mate Dan Thompson lines-up at Berwick as the Bears’ Danish second string Jonas Knudsen is needed by his Polish club and misses out on a return to his former track.
Dickson said: “What is important is that our team all do their jobs.”
