There was a Sunday morning service at St Giles’ Cathedral, when the new Moderator, Rt Rev Dr Shaw James Paterson attended along with His Grace the Duke of Edinburgh.
All photos Andrew O’Brien
The riders get together to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.
The Edinburgh ride has raised in excess of £96,000 with more than 290 riders taking part.
The move to close tourism information centres comes as Visit Scotland claims tourists now look online for information.
As there are no VisitScotland offices in the county, these closures will have no direct effect.
However, Linlithgow LibDem councillor Sally Pattle argued that community-led management and promotion of tourism sites and venues in the county was another way to develop underused venues and boost visitor numbers.
It was reported earlier this year that the council owned Burgh Halls in Linlithgow had made a loss in excess of £70,000 this year.
A propopsal from the Lib Dems and Labour acknowledged that “while West Lothian Council is not the driving force behind a tourism strategy for the area, it is certainly a key strategic partner in ongoing work by Visit West Lothian (VWL), the county’s business led Destination Management Organisation, to enhance and develop any strategy that will contribute to a sustainable long-term vision for tourism in our area”.
A report from VWL on the current strategy is to be discussed next month.
Councillors agreed the three requests: for training of elected members on the Community Asset Transfer process for West Lothian; a call for a report on future plans for a West Lothian-wide tourism strategy to come to PDSP and for officers to bring a report to Local Area Committees identifying heritage sites within each ward area and highlighting any assets at risk.
An SNP amendment argued the council should become the driving force, highlighting the party’s budget proposals to employ staff to promote tourism. This would “mirror successful tourism development strategies put in place by other, more forward-thinking councils in Scotland.”
Linlithgow councillor Pauline Orr said the council should take the lead in driving a policy to promote the county, and urged the set up of a working group to promote public awareness and use of the Community Empowerment Act to improve conservation of sites across West Lothian.
The SNP proposal was defeated 18-14, but Councillor Moira McKee Shemilt asked why the initial ”really good” original proposal on the agenda from the two Linlithgow councillors Pattle and Orr had been replaced with a composite plan from Labour and the LibDems.
She added: “Someone has sharp elbows here.”
Council leader Labour’s Lawrence Fitzpatrick said the composite motion was a “positive way forward ” and added that the SNP had opposed it for sake of opposition.
Councillor Pattle said: “I thought we would be able to work across the chamber. As a council we are able to highlight the work that is being done to promote tourism, but also identify the areas in which we could do a lot better because there are a lot of areas where we could do better.”
By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter
Council officers hoped the changes which will see vehicles banned from entering the North and South Bridges corridor and The Mound introduced as soon as next Easter, however it is now expected these plans will not be in place until at least a year after that in 2026.
Transport Convener Scott Arthur blamed the setback on a lack of Scottish Government funding needed for the project.
He said “uncertainty” around funding had a “significant impact on delivery timescales”.
The road closures – part of the council’s wider City Centre Transformation plan – were approved by councillors in February and are central to the local authority’s goal to cut car kilometres driven in the city by 30 per cent and reach net zero emissions, both by 2030.
A proposed trial closure of the Cowgate and Lawnmarket will go ahead as planned later this year however, although it has not yet been decided whether the Cowgate will become one-way or will be fully closed to through traffic.
Cllr Arthur said he had hoped to see these restrictions introduced in time for the summer festivals, but it was now likely to be later than that.
He said: “A lot of design work has to go into the wider project for the city centre, and in particular understanding how traffic is going to react to some of the changes and really in particular protecting the movement of public transport and making sure pedestrians and others are safe as they move through the city centre.
“So there’s a lot of work to do, it’s not just as simple as putting planters in.
“I think my preference would be for that complete closure [of the Cowgate] and I think that’s what the committee is expecting.
“But we have to be realistic and if the data we get back, both in terms of traffic modelling and also input from businesses. If it’s suggesting we can’t do that in one step and initially maybe we look at a one-way closure then that might be what we have to accept.
“The problem with making streets one-way though is I think often you end up with faster vehicles because they know nothing’s coming in the opposite direction. So we might have to look at measures along the right to ensure everyone’s safe.
“We’ve got a huge ambition for the city, but the funding we need from the Scottish Government is just not aligning to it.”
by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter
Conservation charity, Woodland Trust Scotland, has suggested over 20 top bluebell woods where people can celebrate the annual natural spectacle.
Stunning displays of the violet-blue flowers can now be found from the Highlands down to the Borders, including locations near Edinburgh.
The charity, which cares for over 8000 hectares of land in Scotland, recommends its sites at Glen Finglas in the Trossachs, Keil’s Den in Fife, Dunollie at Oban, Aldouran Glen by Stranraer and Crinan in Argyll as among the very finest.
Other top bluebell locations on the list include Pepper Wood at Kirkliston and Dalkeith Country Park.
Woodland Trust Scotland spokesman George Anderson: “This is one of Scotland’s big natural spectacles. Most of these woods will have floral displays throughout the season but the bluebell display at its peak is not to be missed — these are nature’s fireworks.”
Bluebells — also known as wild hyacinths — thrive in old broad-leaved woodlands where trees are far enough apart to allow light to reach the ground.
The iconic blue-purple flowers traditionally begin blooming in the warmer south around April and the shimmering carpets spread further north as the season progresses.
Around half of all bluebells in the world are found in the UK and Scotland’s native species (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) is protected.
Woodland Trust Scotland has urged people to look after the displays and not trample on them in search of selfies and picture perfect picnic spots.
It can take up to seven years for a trampled area to recover.
Mr Anderson added: “There really is nothing to beat a walk in a bluebell wood, and we love welcoming people to our sites at this time of year. But it would be a pity if there is less of a display in future because people have been careless.
“The plants must pack a lot of work into a very short few weeks and it can be catastrophic for them to be crushed or trampled now.
“Between emerging in spring and the trees above coming into full leaf that shades them, bluebells must get enough energy from the sun to sustain them throughout the year.
“They are also racing to make the most of their time in the sun before other plants such as bracken overtake them.
“In the same short window, they must blossom and reproduce too. So, we ask everyone enjoying bluebells to keep to existing paths and leave them to do their glorious thing undisturbed.
“Don’t wade into the blossoms to take a photo and don’t stand among the plants to have your photo taken. You can get great photos staying on the path.
“Keep dogs on paths too and let them run around somewhere else while the bluebells are out.”
Spanish bluebells also flower at this time of year but are simple to differentiate from native species. The Spanish bluebell is more upright with flowers on both sides of the stem, while the British bluebell leans over, weighed down by its flowers all on one side.
In Scotland, the harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) is also referred to by many people as the “Scottish bluebell”.
The list of favourite bluebell woods includes locations cared for by a range of organisations including Woodland Trust Scotland, RSPB Scotland, The Scottish Wildlife Trust and the National Trust for Scotland.
Twenty-one woods for you to explore in Scotland with spectacular bluebell displays:
Glen Finglas (Brig ‘o’ Turk) Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park
Carstramon Wood, Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway
Dunollie Hill, Oban, Argyll and Bute
Keil’s Den, Leven, Fife
Crinan Wood, Argyll and Bute
Aldouran Glen, Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway
Cumbernauld Glen, North Lanarkshire
Fairy Glen, Fortrose, Highland
Dalkeith Country Park, Midlothian
House of Dun, Brechin, Angus
Carron Glen, Denny, Falkirk
Baron’s Haugh, Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
Cathkin Braes Country Park, East Kilbride
Urquhart Bay, Loch Ness, Highland.
Balmacaan Wood, Inverness, Highland
Glasdrum Wood, Oban, Argyll & Bute
Binn Wood, Perth & Kinross
Loch of the Lowes, Blairgowrie, Perth & Kinross
Brodick, Isle of Arran, North Ayrshire
Pepper Wood, Kirkliston, Edinburgh
Corsehillmuir Wood, North Ayrshire
New figures have revealed the extent of pressures on the city’s planning service following the introduction of new regulations for second homes which owners want to use as holiday lets.
The numbers show that at the end of March a total of 2,546 short-term let (STL) applications had been lodged since 2018, with 880 of these granted, refused or withdrawn so far – leaving 1,666 which are yet to be issued with a decision. More than two-thirds of the backlog is made up of requests for certificates of lawfulness.
Previously the council said this route was only available to those who could prove their property had been used as an STL for more than 10 years.
However, after a judicial review last year found the authority could no longer demand ‘change of use’ applications for all other holiday lets, an increasing number of landlords have sought lawful certificates in a bid to avoid the full planning permission process – and just one in three have been approved, of those determined so far.
Cllr Chas Booth, Edinburgh Greens’ spokesperson on planning, said: “I’m extremely concerned that more than 8 of every 10 applications for an STL certificate of lawfulness have not yet been determined by the council.
“It’s important that these applications are processed swiftly and fairly, not just for the applicants, who deserve a clear decision, but also for neighbours and communities who might be impacted by some of these applications.
“This raises serious questions about whether the council has sufficient resources, and enough planning officers, to cope with the number of STL applications.”
Fiona Campbell, CEO of trade body the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC), said: “Industry repeatedly warned about the resource implications for local authorities stemming from short-term let regulations.
“The status quo is a lose-lose situation for all concerned as planning departments are overwhelmed while small business owners face crippling uncertainty.
“Taking a proactive approach to address these challenges, the ASSC has presented legally sound and mutually beneficial policy solutions to City of Edinburgh Council.
“This would help enable a sustainable future for the remaining self-catering businesses in the capital and reduce the administrative burden for the Council.
by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter
The first page came at 9.45pm on Friday 17 May when members of the public spotted an object in the water off Gullane bay, three nautical miles to the west of the station. North Berwick Coastguard Rescue Team (CRT) arrived on scene as the lifeboat was making way to Gullane, but due to the rapidly fading light and incoming haar were unable to determine what the object was.
The lifeboat made good speed to the scene and were guided onto the object by members of North Berwick CRT. The object turned out to be a marker buoy attached to a creel.
Helm, Hamish Barbour said “The first informant did exactly the right thing by calling the Coastguard, the visibility on scene wasn’t great and fishing buoys can very easily look like a persons head bobbing in the water. If in doubt, call 999 for the Coastguard.”
The second call out came at 1.56pm on Saturday 18 May after members of the public reported concerns for a group of stand up paddleboarders who had been seen by Craigleith Island, approximately one nautical mile offshore, when the haar once again blanketed the area.
With visibility dropping below 100m at times the lifeboat launched and started a systematic search of the area between Craigleith Island and the shore, before starting a shoreline search as new information became available.
After two hours with nothing found the lifeboat was stood down as investigations on shore had identified the paddleboarders involved and established that they had made it safely ashore.
Helm Callum MacLeod said: “This was a search based on minimal information in tricky conditions. Thankfully the paddleboarders were safe and well. We thank the members of the public and other water users for the information they gave us.”
“At this time of year the Firth of Forth is prone to sea fog, or haar as it is called on the east coast of Scotland, when relatively warm winds blow over the cold sea. If you’re headed out on the water always check the weather forecast, wear an appropriate buoyancy aid or lifejacket and carry a waterproofed means of calling for help”.
An injury setback for Berwick Jewson Bandits’ No 1 Lewis Kerr took the gloss off the Borders side’s 47-42 victory over a dogged Plymouth Gladiators outfit.
Kerr, who returned on Friday after five weeks on the sidelines with a fractured ankle, fell in the Heat One rerun after clashing with Connor Mountain.
The damage will be discovered by scans early this week, but his meeting was over and Berwick operated injury rider replacement.
It was a decision contested by Plymouth who felt that he had aggravated a previous injury and they plan to ask the Speedway Control Bureau to investigate.
As it happens Schlein’s heat one victory was the only points the facility yielded – Jye Etheridge falling, Drew Kemp suffering engine problems and Danyon Hume finishing last in the other IRR rides.
Bastian Borke – cheered on by his parents and a contingent of relatives and Danish friends – put down an early marker with a tapes to flag victory in the second heat.
Kemp came out on top after trading places with Kyle Newman to follow Etheridge home in three and the home side opened up an eight point lead as Schlein headed Ben Barker home, Borke’s third place pushing the home side further ahead.
Mountain rode a brave back straight to beat the fast-starting Etheridge before Plymouth pulled themselves right back into contention in bizarre heat six.
At the first time of asking Etheridge fell battling with Barker on the second bend and, to his annoyance, was excluded. Hume then broke the tapes as did his replacement Borke in the second restart leaving Mountain and Barker to race unopposed to a 5-0 which cut the gap to three points.
Extensive track grading following rider complaints interrupted the flow of a meeting also dogged by starting gate problems.
All the niggles and complaining seemed to play into the hands of the visitors and Alfie Bowtell produced a tapes to flag victory in eight and first Hume and then Borke had to find a way around Joe Thompson to prevent Plymouth from taking the lead on the night.
It was the first of four shared heats as Plymouth doggedly stuck to their task, Hume and Schlein both having to ride the boards to force their way to the front.
Borke’s new-found gating prowess was to the fore again in 12 and with Etheridge finally getting the better of Dan Thompson after the pair traded places, the Bandits had some breathing space.
A 4-2 for Barker and Mountain as Schlein dropped his first point of the night in 13 – heat six apart their only other heat advantage to this point – whittled away the lead, but Borke was electric from the gate again in 14 and with Kemp following his team-mate home the destination the match was settled.
Indeed there was enough breathing space for Barker and Mountain’s last heat maximum over Schlein to be no more than a slight blip.
Bandits: Lewis Kerr 0, Danyon Hume 6, Jye Etheridge 7+3, Drew Kemp 8+2, Rory Schlein 15, Freddy Hodder 0, Bastian Borke 11+1
Gladiators: Connor Mountain 13+1, Alfie Bowtell 5, Dan Thompson 5, Kyle Newman 4+2, Ben Barker 12+2, Joe Thompson 2, Jacob Hook 1+1
PICTURE: Rory Schlein
Many people took to the gardens to sunbathe or have a picnic, and there was a constant queue at the ice cream van parked by the Royal Scottish Academy.
Later in the day the weather took a turn for the worse as the haar rolled up from Leith enveloping the city centre.
The Governor of Edinburgh Castle, Major-General Alastair Bruce, showed the advancing mist from the castle.
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
PHOTO Alan Simpson
There appeared to us to be more people filing down the Royal Mile than in past weeks and months. The protesters had been called to action in a national demonstration by the Gaza Genocide Emergency Committee among other groups. On their Facebook page they had expressed a wish to ask as many people from all over Scotland to come to Edinburgh and take part to show solidarity for Palestine.
It took around 20 minutes to pass by, although it is always difficult to estimate exact numbers.
The protesters walked to The Scottish Parliament where there is an encampment.
Others present included the Rt Hon Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge and the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney. Mr Swinney said on Twitter: “A great pleasure to attend the opening of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. I wish the Commissioners well as they address the Moderator’s theme of Building Together.”
The outgoing Moderator Very Reverend Sally Foster-Fulton passed the baton to Dr Paterson during the ceremony.
Team Mouat has joined forces with the country’s only Scotch malt whisky cream liqueur, Magnum, to unveil the new venture at the Cold Town House in the Grassmarket.
Created especially for the spring and summer social scene, the ‘Magnum Summer Terrace’ on the rooftop of Cold Town House and on the Grassmarket will offer people the chance to drink in some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle.
Magnum has made the bold move to shake up demand for the Scotch cream liqueur during the warmer summer months by adding its own special blend of cool creative magic, complete with branded sun loungers, parasols and festoon lighting.
Typically seen as a festive drink to enjoy at Christmas time, Magnum has teamed up with the mixologists at Cold Town House to create an exclusive choice of three new iced cocktails made with Magnum to help keep people keep cool outdoors, including the Banana Colada, Choc N’ Chip and Strawberries N’ Cream.
A new summer-inspired Magnum Shooter Board and an individual selection of Magnum flavoured shots are also up for grabs, including a fruity Peaches N’ Cream, Banana Split, Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Mudslide, as well as a Magnum Baby Guinness.
Magnum is contained in a unique, stainless steel flask, which is designed to be reusable and recyclable. It also keeps the liqueur chilled at the optimum temperature, which means it can also be enjoyed as a straight serve outdoors without the need for ice.
The innovative drinks brand is now the only cream liqueur exclusively crafted and bottled in Scotland using single malt Scotch whisky from Speyside, so people are now able to raise a glass Magnum at Edinburgh’s Cold Town House this spring and summer.
Magnum Director, Lee Schofield said: “With the warmer spring and summer months fast approaching, we’re really excited to be teaming up with Team Mouat and Edinburgh’s Cold Town House to launch our two new outdoor bar experiences.
“We’re here to show the world that cream liqueurs like Magnum are no longer just for Christmas, but can be enjoyed all year round. Our exclusive range of iced Magnum cocktails are a cool new addition to this season’s alfresco social scene in the capital.
“We’re confident that people are going to love chilling with a glass of Magnum whilst drinking in the views of Edinburgh Castle. It’s an incredible backdrop to capture those perfect moments with family and friends on Instagram or TikTok too.”
Since winning the World Curling Championships in 2023 and the Europeans in 2024, Team Mouat have been the official brand ambassadors for Magnum. Led by Edinburgh-born skipper, Bruce Mouat, the team of four men also took home the silver medal at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.
Bruce Mouat, said: “As Scotland’s world champion curling team, we’re proud to be supporting Magnum as a pioneering Scottish brand this year.
“Edinburgh is my hometown, so there’s no better place be launching Magnum’s new spring and summer campaign than with the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle at Cold Town House.”
Magnum is a fusion of single malt Scotch whisky and cream. Its superior ingredients and contemporary design sets it apart from traditional liqueurs. Smooth, creamy caramel notes play off single malt Speyside whisky for a balanced taste with a warming ginger afterglow.
The new ‘Magnum Summer Terrace’ on the rooftop of Cold Town House provides space for up to 60 people.
The new ‘Magnum Summer Terrace‘ on the Grassmarket opposite Cold Town House provides space for up to 48 people.
Located at Cold Town House, 4 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, both Magnum Summer Terraces are now open seven days a week from 11am to 1am Friday to Sunday, and 12noon to 12am Monday to Thursday.
He began: “I caught the sleeper train up here – never the best night’s sleep, but I imagine I had a better one than anyone in the SNP has recently.
“There’s been so much chaos and upheaval that I did find myself wondering who the First Minister would be by the time we pulled in to Glasgow.”
He then went on to attack the Conservatives – his party’s previous coalition partners at Westminster – listing their faults. He said: “A succession of disappointing leaders, mired in scandal. Playing pathetic political games instead of getting things done. Desperately clinging to power by any means possible. All while letting ordinary people down and taking them for granted. It’s all sounding a bit too familiar for the people in this room, isn’t it?
“Because, Conference, whereas we, and the rest of the UK, see the Conservative party as a disgrace…
“The SNP see them as a role model – Tartan Tories indeed.
“Amidst all the uncertainty that this year brings, with no date for an election, we have to watch as the Conservatives tear themselves apart in Westminster and the SNP do the same in Holyrood.”
He then called for both the Conservatives and the SNP to go, meanwhile lauding the efforts of all four Scottish MSPs and the remainder of the Liberal Democrat politicians at Westminster – 15 are MPs and 84 are members of the House of Lords.
But despite these low numbers Sir Ed said they are: “Strong local champions working hard for their communities, and leading the charge on national issues too.
“Just look at the incredible difference that Wendy Chamberlain has made for family carers across the UK with her Carer’s Leave Act, which came into force last month.
“It’s an issue close to my heart. I’ve been a carer for much of my life – first for my mum, then for my Nanna, and now for my son John.
“And I’ve had the privilege of meeting carers across the country, hearing about the amazing work they do looking after their loved ones, but also the massive challenges they face every day.
“So I know how big a difference Wendy’s law will make – to millions of people.”
After citing the case of an an individual carer and her problems with allowances and the UK Government, he turned to The Scottish Government and ferries.
He continued: “Scotland needs change. The UK needs change. And simply installing a new Prime Minister, or a new First Minister, just won’t cut it.
“I would accuse the SNP of rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic… But that would imply that they’re any good at building and launching a seagoing vessel in the first place!
“Liberal Democrats have always been the party of real change.
“Ever since we were founded, our Scottish Party led the campaign for a Scottish Parliament – and twenty-five years ago those dreams were realised.
“In the twenty-five years since, we have led the charge for change in Holyrood – from fair votes to free personal care.
“And it makes me so proud to see Alex and his team continuing that brilliant legacy today.
“Fighting for a fair deal – on the NHS, on schools, on our precious natural environment.
“Alex is the campaigner’s campaigner, and in West Edinburgh they have built the strongest campaigning force in Scottish politics.
“The Scottish Liberal Democrats are the only party fighting for real change for Scotland. And we are the only party fighting for real change right across the UK.
“And that’s why our role is so important. Why it’s crucial that we have more Liberal Democrat MPs, strong in the next Parliament.
“Conference, this is a big year. The SNP and the Tories have shown the Scottish people that they cannot be trusted with the economy, their health, the environment or our place in the world. It has been a long time since either of them represented our proud British values of decency, tolerance and rule of law. And people have had enough. Two tired old parties – out of touch, out of excuses and out of time. And it’s up to us to get them out of office.
“With your help, I firmly believe that we can make this a once-in-a-generation election. Electing a whole new generation of Liberal Democrat MPs…
“To work hard for their communities…
“To lead the charge for real change…
“And to fight for a fair deal.
“I know we can do it. I know you’re up for it. So let’s keep at it. And bring on the General Election!”
This was part of a mass event from Cornwall to Scotland with protests held in at least 30 places on the coast.
Charlie Allanson-Oddy, SAS spokesperson for Scotland, led the Edinburgh protest, and outlined the group’s goals saying they were “calling for a complete stop on sewage release into bathing water areas and areas of particular natural interests”.
He said: “Across England, Wales, and Scotland, there’s been a fifty per cent increase in the amount of sewage pumped into our waters.
“We are demanding that all bathing water areas, and particular areas of wildlife are protected from sewage by 2030.”
There are three points along the beach at Portobello where rainwater and sewage is discharged onto the beach when heavy rainfall occurs. According to Scottish Water’s data, the number of these spills has increased by around 10% from 2022 to 2023. However, the total number is not known because only four per cent of sewage overflows in Scotland are monitored by authorities. SAS claim this could mean the real number of sewage spills for Scotland could be in the hundreds of thousands.
This year, SAS raised more than £200,000, with some funding invested in Scotland. Charlie said: “SAS have been backing a local initiative called the Porty Water Collective. So they’ve been funding us to do weekly water quality tests… And 81% of those results have shown unsafe levels of E-Coli by SEPA standards.”
This group made headlines last year when they discovered these levels of E-Coli in the waters off Portobello Beach. Charlie also announced a new partnership, where the University of Edinburgh will be doing “in-depth testing of the samples in the hope of establishing the source of the E.Coli.”
These tests are due to start next week, and the results will be posted on the SAS and Porty Water Collective social media pages.
Charlie agreed that it will take time to fix the “Victorian” era sewage system saying “but clearly, it’s unfit for purpose”.
He said: “There is no quick fix to the situation we have. However, what we do demand is commitment now to start to change it. There needs to be a proper plan with a considered framework.”
The Japanese striker latched on to a flick after Zander Clark had punted the ball up the pitch and he made no mistake five minutes into injury time to lift the home faithful who feared a sixth straight defeat by the Ibrox side in all competitions this season.
Earlier, Fabio Silva scored after a defensive lapse with 11 minutes of regulation time left and it looked all over for Steven Naismith’s men.
But Dexter Lembikisa provided a lifeline three minutes later, vollyeing the ball home after being fed by Kenneth Vargas, to set up a grandstand finish.
Lawrence Shankland (pictured) opened the scoring, netting for the 31st time this season to break the deadlock after 33 minutes, but Rangers hit back to score twice and take a 2-1 lead.
Ross McCausland scored a fine goal off a post after 52 minutes and Todd Cantwell added a third after 69 minutes, beating Zander Clark after fine build-up play from Cyriel Dessers.
Hearts players, apart from those called up for international duty, can now head for the beach but Rangers boss, Philippe Clement, has much to ponder ahead of the Scottish Gas, Scottish Cup Final at Hampden on Saturday against double-chasing Celtic.
Of course, Rangers are also on a double having won the Viaplay Cup.
I must be in the minority – I can count on one hand the last time I have ordered a takeaway in the 25 years I have been living in Edinburgh, and secondly, as many of my friends know, pizza is one of the last cuisines I would choose if dining out. There’s no real reason – I’d just rather have the constituent parts of the pizza toppings devised into a proper meal.
However, Stanley Tucci with his Searching For Italy TV programme which I devoured during lockdown and a trip to Naples in 2022, when we could finally travel again, changed all this. So, when Franco Manca invited The Edinburgh Reporter to try their new spring-summer menu, it was time to put my prejudices aside and give pizza another go.
From the sourdough pizza pioneers, there’s a host of delicious newness including pizzas, starters, salads and desserts and specials which grace the blackboard in each establishment. Franca Manca’s Pizzaioli team create pizza made from seasonally, locally sourced ingredients, and fresh, handmade dough proved over 24 hours from an 18th-century starter.
We were eating at the South St Andrew’s Street branch, but there’s also another brand at Deanhaugh Street in Stockbridge which used to house Pizza Express with great views over the Water of Leith.
The vibe was buzzing on a Friday night with couples, single diners and tables of four, and friendly, attentive staff seeing to the diners’ needs, dressed in stylish branded t-shirts, and chefs working behind a visible pass, behind which was a beautifully tiled pizza oven.
There are 70 Franca Mancas across the UK. Although a chain, Franco Manca’s ethos is that good food takes time, but they don’t mean between their ovens and our plates. Service is incredibly quick but not rushed. What they mean is everything in between. From opening their first establishment in 2008 to fresh harvests plucked, they believe in knowing where your food comes from and their menu celebrates the ingredient’s provenance, which gives it an authentic touch.
For starters, we shared one of their blackboard specials, a creamy Burrata with rocket leaves, sun-dried tomatoes and the most beautifully presented grilled artichoke, which was like a flower and a platter of Italian smoked beef, wild rocket, Franco’s grana, capers from Salina, black pepper & lemon dressing. The portions are very generous, and while we weren’t able to finish everything, it wasn’t because of a lack of flavour. Quite the opposite, both dishes were well-balanced and beautifully presented.
For the main event, Franco Manca has introduced four new pizzas to its famous lineup. There’s the No.3, a delight for veggies, with traditional halloumi D.O.P. cheese, organic tomato, mozzarella, roasted peppers cooked with garlic and capers, caramelised red onions and watercress pesto.
Next up they have the controversial No.8, with free-range chicken marinated with spices, roasted courgette base, mozzarella, Franco’s grana, fresh mixed chillis and crunchy tarallini crumbs. And because I like to be controversial, this was a pizza that had to be tried. The chillis certainly packed a punch and took both of us by surprise by the heat of the chillies, but thankfully we had the Pinot Grigio: Nativo to wash the heat away!
Our smoked beef starter also comes as a pizza, the No.9, apparently a fan favourite but in my opinion, it was better without a pizza base.
And back by popular demand was the last pizza we opted to share – the No.10, with wild mushrooms, truffle pesto base, mozzarella, smoked burrata, truffle oil & fresh basil. I also ordered one of their dips, a seasonal wild garlic pesto, which was vibrantly green and fresh and the perfect accompaniment to dip the crusts of the sourdough pizza into. This was most definitely our favourite although we couldn’t quite do justice to it all. But the staff will helpfully give you a box to take anything you can’t eat away, which I promptly gave to one homeless person sitting outside a well-known burger takeaway down the road. He and no doubt his dog was delighted, saying it looked ‘very posh’.
For our post-pizza treat, I opted for a scoop of Salted Caramel ice cream, which is possibly one of the best I have ever consumed while my dining companion opted for a digestif, an Amaro, a bitter, spicy, and herbaceous spirit.
If you’re looking for affordability, and laid-back dining where everyone is welcome, Franco Manco has definitely cracked the Neapolitan café culture and they may finally have got me to re-evaluate my pizza prejudice!
Franco Manca
The Mint Building
19-23 South St Andrew Street
Edinburgh. EH2 2AU
Tel: 0131 560 1329
The Old Manor Hotel at Lundin Links, now under the ownership of the Wallace family of Pettycur Bay Holiday Park, still displays a plaque proudly proclaiming that the famous author opened its brand new conference and banqueting suite in 1999.
“The plaque has never been taken down, and to be honest, why would we,” said Stephen Carleschi, Operations Director at the Old Manor Hotel. “We realised the other day, whilst it was being dusted actually, that it was twenty five years ago since it went up. We’re sure at the time that it was a huge coup for the Old Manor to have Ian Rankin come and make a personal appearance.”
“Over the past twenty five years, the function suite has held many hundreds of weddings. Now that the Wallace family has invested a great deal of money in the Hotel, carrying out a huge refurbishment, we hope to hold many more! We have selected dates left for this year, with various great value packages available. Contact our Wedding Co-Ordinator to find out more. This may suit a couple who have not yet managed to book a venue, or indeed are huge Rebus fans!”
“We will give you the full tour of the facilities, and can discuss the wedding packages in more detail.”
Further details www.theoldmanorhotel.co.uk
The City of Edinburgh Council will begin enforcement of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) from 1 June. Broadly any cars registered before 2006 will not comply with the rules on emissions and buses registered before 2013. There is a checker based on registration numbers. The link is below.
There are 41 vehicles in the council fleet which do not comply and these include specialist vehicles – for example buses with special wheelchair lifts which are used in the city centre. The council says it has proven difficult to replace these and the only alternative, since they do not want to grant exemptions even to their own vehicles, is to rent replacements.
There are no details of the likely costs involved and the council believes that some of the replacements will arrive by September.
A further 35 vehicles will be replaced in due course but are not used within the LEZ meaning that there is no need for immediate replacements.
The LEZ covers most of the City Centre from Queen Street to the Commonwealth Pool.
Check compliance of any vehicle on the council website:
https://lowemissionzones.scot/vehicle-registration-checker
Asking members of the public to nominate their favourite local restaurants, the scheme aims to recognise the best independently run establishments in the country. Criteria it looks for includes having hands on owners and chefs, regularly changing seasonal menus at affordable prices, and strong relationships with local suppliers.
The restaurants must also foster good relations with local communities, and provide a genuine warm welcome to customers.
Having been notified by email that it’s through to the next round of voting, the Dalmore Inn will continue to ask its customers for even more nominations,
“We are really pleased to have been nominated in this – It’s just the sort of recognition we are after as it’s specifically for independently run restaurants, not big chains,” said General Manager, Arnaud Merrouche.
“We are very much in the heart of the community, in a rural location, using seasonal produce and local suppliers every day, so things like that really matter to us as do the fact that many of our customers are local. We see the same faces time and time again and we really appreciate the support they give us, ” added Arnaud.
“Ticking the box for additional affordability, at the moment, we have our 20% off all food purchases Monday to Thursday throughout May and June, ” finished Arnaud.
Further details www.dalmoreinn.com
Under the plans the routes would be The Gyle to Hermiston Park & Ride via Ratho; Queensferry to The Gyle; Cramond to Balerno; Wester Hailes to Chesser and The Gyle to Clermiston.
There are currently three existing bus services operating in the west of the city that are fully financially supported by Edinburgh Council – services 20, 63 and 68 – operated by McGill’s Bus Services but these are to be withdrawn on 14 July this year.
Four of the new routes would be run by Lothian with the The Gyle to Clermiston route being operated by Handicabs Lothian.
Before the revised contracts went out for tender the Council consulted with local communities and operators to help develop route specifications and help balance community requirements within the available budget.
The new services will improve bus provision in the west of the city with some of the routes amended and a new connection to Cramond being provided by utilising a developer contribution from new housing in the area.
Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is fantastic news for residents in the west of the city as it’s really important to make sure the areas they live in are connected with the rest of Edinburgh. There are some parts of the city that are just not well-connected which is why these supported bus services are so important. I’m pleased that the community and bus operators also fed into the proposed routes allowing us to amend some services, which should improve reliability and connections to the wider public transport network.
“I’m delighted to be proposing that these services will be operated by Lothian Buses and Handicabs and once these contracts are awarded better connecting Lady Nairne and Dumbiedykes will become our top priority.”
If the proposals are approved next week then the Council will immediately move to award contracts so the new services can be registered with the Traffic Commissioner and be ready to operate as soon as McGill’s services stop. The proposed contract lengths are for two years, with two one year optional extensions.
The Council will also work with the successful operators to update all available passenger information on each route and keep community groups updated on the changes to services in their area.
Tendering for the new service provision for the Lady Nairne and Dumbiedykes areas will now start to be progressed.
The 41-year-old goalkeeper, who still hopes to make the squad for the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany, feels he is in a good place and said: “There is no mental block about beating Rangers, absolutely not.
“I have heard this so many times. It is a lot of nonsense we have come close. We were close at Ibrox. We played well in the semi-final and I think that is a crazy thing that has come up over the last year or so.
“We are going all out to beat them at Tynecastle in the last game of the season. If there was to be any extra motivation (for Saturday) then it is certainly that as we do not like it.”
He conceded that a win would be a good way to end the season, and added: “We have had a good season, we have said over the last few weeks that we have wanted to finish with 70 points.
“We can still do that going into the last game and it would be nice to get that win and that would mabey shut a few people up but it is up to us. We will go out there and stick to our game plan.
“Our game plans have been good against them but we have not executed them as well as we could have to win the game.
“They (Rangers) are still a very good team in their own right and you have to give them the respect that they deserve as well, but it is not easy to beat every single team in this league.
“If we manage to beat Rangers (on Saturday) then we will have beaten everybody in this league at some point this season. We will give it our best shot to do that.”
Gordon also batted aside any notion that Rangers will be on a downer after Celtic were confirmed as champions in midweek.
He said: “They are Rangers. There is a certain pride and responsibility that comes with being a player at a top club and they will want to continue their momentum into the cup final and into next season.”
PICTURE: Craig Gordon photographed by David Mollison
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
Picture Alan Simpson
Fire at the Barnton Council Depot.
While the negotiations have continued designed work was put on hold, to restart when an agreement was near which council officers now say it is.
The rail infrastructure company had a long term lease with the former operator of the old waste transfer station and Network Rail have to end that to allow the council to acquire the land under a lease.
A spokesperson for The City of Edinburgh Council said that talks have been positive although the land has yet to be valued.
Transport Convener Cllr Scott Arthur said it is a real possibility and will allow the council to create a direct active travel route from Piershill to Powderhall. He said: “I think that will be very welcome, and if we can get funding to deliver that route it could be transformative in that area. A lease from Network Rail would just be a first step. Following that we would have to consult on it, design the route and we would then have to get the cash to deliver it. So there will be no short term changes here.”
There is a housing regeneration project on one side of Powderhall so the discussion seems to have come at the right time. Below is a map investigated by the recent feasibility study.
Section 1 – New Lochend Butterfly overbridge to Broughton Road overbridge
Section 2 – Broughton Road overbridge to Chancelot Path / Warriston Path junction
Section 3 – Marionville Road overbridge to: A) New Lochend Butterfly overbridge; B) Abbey Lane; and C) Crawford Bridge.
While the consultation carried out last year attracted a mixed response and so council officers have proposed a trial on the route of the Lothian bus service 44 which travels from Balerno to Wallyford, a journey of one hour and 16 minutes.
The bus signage will be altered along the route and then the time plates advising drivers that it will be enforced all day will be put up.
This will run for 18 months under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), and will be monitored and evaluated before any other 7-7-7 bus lanes are introduced. The council would look at passenger numbers and vehicle speeds, bus reliability and reduced journey times.
Cllr Scott Arthur Transport Convener said: “If you live somewhere like Balerno where it can take so long to get into the city using public transport. With or without 7-7-7 improving public transport connectivity into the city right along that Lanark Road route is really important. It can be a real bottleneck in parts, and it only takes one set of roadworks and the whole thing grinds to a halt. A lot of people don’t have alternative routes so improving public transport along that route is absolutely key.”
Bus lanes also feature in the West Edinburgh Transport Improvement Plan where they will be a core part of the £36.6 million public transport and active travel improvements which itself is a part of a larger scheme costing £72.3 million. It is recognised that bus lanes and bus priority would improve access to several rural areas on the outskirts of the city. It is hoped that bus journey times would also be reduced.
There are 46 planters made of COR-TEN steel placed on Leith Walk as part of the tram project. The finish which gives them a rusty look, and which means the surface never requires to be painted, has been the subject of much comment on social media, and mainly as a result of the public reaction, most of these will now be replaced.
But the sad news is that of the 46 trees planted, 16 have been snapped in half – and the council accuses members of the public.
The planters are also filled with litter and cigarette butts, they have been covered in graffiti – although some locals have used them to plant vegetables and herbs.
Following a discussion with the parks team it has been decided to move the planters to park locations and to disused bowling greens where they can be set up as mini allotments. Possible locations include Leith Links, Inverleith Park, Saughton Park, Inch Park, and St Mark’s Park. Some may however be left in place if locals can help to maintain them.
Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport Convener, said: “With the level of vandalism that these are attracting the council cannot continue to support them, so we have made the decision to remove them. They will then be used elsewhere as allotment space where there is demand. There are some smaller planters in this style in my ward in Colinton and they have been there for many years where I think most people like them.”
The council will also look at ways of introducing additional trees on the route adding to their contribution to the Edinburgh Million tree project. And the council will also work with community councils to find alternatives for Leith Walk.
The council contractor SFN used planters as council officers say “utilities under pavements made it impossible to install tree pits and trees”. The tram route was dug up not once but twice and it appears that the contractors failed to identify suitable locations for any trees during those excavations.
This will be achieved by way of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), and it is hoped it will alleviate congestion. The present arrangement of blocking the left hand turn forces traffic onto the Picardy Place roundabout which is adding to congestion.
Officers have found about 10 seconds from the traffic light sequence which will allow this move. In 2020 the ban was introduced to allow for a single phase pedestrian crossing. While the single phase can be maintained officers have now modelled a solution which will allow traffic to veer off Leith Walk before arriving at the roundabout. It is hoped that the change will “benefit the overall operation of Picardy Place.
Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “It was important for us to give the successful new tram line to Newhaven time to bed in, and, as with any major transport infrastructure project we continued to review the traffic management arrangements in the area.
“After this monitoring process, and in response to public feedback and discussions with Lothian Buses, we’re proposing to re-introduce the left hand turn from Leith Walk onto London Road. Importantly thanks to the plans we’re also maintaining single phase crossing for both pedestrians and cyclists crossing over from London Road.
“The overall positive impact of these changes will support Lothian Buses and their operations while also easing congestion in and around Picardy Place and associated streets.
“The previous Transport and Environment Committee made the decision to close the turn in good faith some time ago, but it is now clear the prohibition has been detrimental to the flow of public transport through the area.”
If the plans are approved next week then the statutory process will begin under the Trams to Newhaven Temporary Traffic Regulation Order.
Transport Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur confirmed that Lothian Buses has now installed bus trackers on at least 550 of their fleet of 700 buses, but testing continues for now. It is envisaged that the system will show live information for Lothian by the middle of next month.
Council officers continue to speak with bus operators to ensure that the data displayed is accurate. The bus tracker system will also be used by other local authorities in the area.
Any disruption to services will not be displayed until August this year.
Paul McNaughton, 29, previously pled guilty to murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice at the High Court in Glasgow on Wednesday, 2 August, 2023.
Dr Coshan, of Edinburgh, was last seen in the Seafield Road area of Leith, on Thursday, 11 August, 2022 and was reported missing the next day.
Following extensive enquiries by Police Scotland’s Major Investigations Teams, and our partners, his body was found on land close to the A696 near the village of Kirkwhelpington, Northumberland on Sunday, 4 September, 2022.
Dr Coshan’s family have released the following statement via Police Scotland: “Firstly, we would like to thank Police Scotland, including our family liaison officers, for the support they have given us since Peter went missing in August 2022.
“We would like thank everyone who took part in the search for Peter and the investigation that took place afterwards.
“So many people have been involved in this process and too many to mention.
“Our appreciation also to the court service for their support and ensuring we were kept in the picture about the progress of the case.
“We have been grateful for the constant support from our own family and friends, along with Peter’s friends from Fettes College and his university days, amongst others. Their continued support has without doubt helped us through this nightmare and has been an amazing display of the best of human nature.
“This is in stark contrast to the worst of human nature, which was displayed by the individual who took Peter’s life.
“We remain horrified that anybody could have treated a vulnerable 75-year-old in such a despicable manner. Our life will never be the same and we will always ask the question – ‘What if?’.
“There is of course no answer to ‘What if’, as events have overtaken us and there is no going back in time.
“However, we have happy memories of Peter and can reflect on the positive impact he had on so many people’s lives. We would ask that our privacy is respected at this time.”
Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, senior investigating officer, said: “This was a horrendous crime which has left Dr Coshan’s family absolutely devastated and our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.
“Not only did McNaughton brutally take Dr Coshan’s life, he then set out to get away with his crimes by callously disposing of his body at a layby almost 100 miles away from his home.
“His despicable actions showed no regard for his life, or for the suffering and anguish he caused his relatives and friends.
“This was a challenging and complex investigation involving a range of specialist officers working closely with Northumbria Police and our partners in forensic services.
“I would also like to thank the public for their support throughout the investigation.”
The Southside venue – one of the city’s busiest during the Fringe – was put up for sale earlier this week, casting doubt over its future.
While managers say they are committed to Summerhall’s “long-term survival”, the property listing with CuthbertWhite states the former vet school offered “significant redevelopment” options including as a hotel, offices or student housing and this has exacerbated fears its days as a major cultural hub aremnumbered.
However the selling agents also state the building – which is home to over 110 businesses – is being sold with the current leases intact.
An emergency motion tabled by Edinburgh Council’s SNP group on Thursday and passed unanimously, highlighted the importance of the centre’s “role to the cultural fabric of Edinburgh as a capital city”.
Councillors agreed the local authority would “open a dialogue” with owners Oesselmann Estates Limited “to ascertain what support the city council can offer that would help secure the sustainability and future of Summerhall and its vibrant programme of events, community projects, visual arts and exhibitions”.
A similar Green Group motion, also backed by all members of the culture and communities committee, added that any change of use of the venue would be a would be a “severely negative development” but noted the recent effort to save the Filmhouse was a “welcome precedent”.
It requested that culture and communities convener Val Walker and council leader Cammy Day “meet urgently with the owners of the building to explore how they can ensure Summerhall continues to provide outstanding culture and events space, and homes to businesses”.
Meanwhile a petition to ‘preserve Summerhall as a cultural hub in Edinburgh’ has amassed almost 10,000 signatures in under a week.
Summerhall said its 2024 Fringe programme would go ahead as planned, and promised that any sale would “ensure the arts are front and centre of any decisions that may be made in the future”.
SNP councillor Finlay McFarlane, who tabled the emergency motion, said: “I am delighted that my emergency motion found unanimous political support at committee. As when the Filmhouse entered difficulties it is vital that we are using our civic voice to express the cultural importance of Summerhall remaining a centre for community and the arts.
“Any potential future owner of Summerhall should be playing close attention to the outpouring of support and strength of public feeling about its future.
“The motion also means that our council officers can start a dialogue to establish any ways in which we can contribute to support the tenant organisations and play our part in planning for a long-term sustainable future.
“In the meantime, Summerhall is open for business and the best way we can practically all rally around it is to visit, buy a coffee or tickets to their fantastic upcoming Fringe season. I know I will be!”
Cllr Day said: “I was disappointed to see the news that Summerhall is set to be sold and I understand the concern for the future of this well-loved cultural institution.
“We’re monitoring the situation closely and will continue to do so alongside our partners. I’m encouraged to see that this matter will also be raised by the Member for Edinburgh East with the Scottish Government.
“We remain in dialogue with the operators and have an emergency meeting in place to discuss these new developments.
“We’re committed to preserving and enhancing the capital’s wider cultural sector going forward and the Summerhall site forms an important part of this.”
At Pianodrome this weekend there will be a free concert by Sophie Joint. The concert begins at 4pm on 18 May at the Warehouse 28 West Harbour Road EH5 1PN.
Sophie Joint is a piano player from Glasgow who has been brought up playing both Scottish and Irish traditional music. Having recently graduated from The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, she is enjoying a career of performing and teaching within the Scottish music scene. With strong traditional roots, Sophie draws influences from other styles including classical and jazz shaping her own unique sound. She was recently a finalist in the BBC Young Traditional Musician of The Year competition in 2022, and has been a winner of the Danny Kyle award at Celtic Connections.
She has recently released her debut solo album ‘Light on Water’. The album encapsulates the inspiration she finds from Scotland’s unique and varied seascapes – the music reflects the different moods created by the constantly changing textures and sounds of the sea. The music video for the single ‘Apricity’ was filmed at Wardie Bay thanks to the team at Pianodrome. They wheeled a grand piano out onto the pier on one of the coldest days of the year. Sophie is looking forward to coming back to Granton to play some of the album live at the Pianodrome’s lunch time concert.
Journalism students at Edinburgh Napier were among the winners at The Herald 2024 Student Press Awards
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.
On Saturday there will be a free pollinator picnic from 12.30 to 2.30pm at Lauriston Farm – all part of the Lauriston Farm Agroecology Open Day and a chance to eat fresh fruit and picnic food “made possible by the secret helpers in our food system”.. It will be run by artist Natalie Taylor who is responsible for seeding the grassy area opposite the red bridge on Ferry Road making it a haven for bees.
The whole vinyl collection amassed by DJ, radio presenter and music lover, Lenny Love, during his lifetime will be sold on Sunday at Voodoo Rooms. Lenny sadly died earlier this year.
