Jimmy Page & The Black Crowes – Live at the Greek 

I once asked Black Crowes guitarist Rich Robinson what it was like to work with Jimmy Page from one of the greatest bands of all time, Led Zeppelin. “I was on cloud nine”, came the reply”. He’s the architect”. While the band’s frontman, Robert Plant, continues to tour, it’s been a while since we’ve seen Page get behind a Les Paul. You can almost hear his sweat hit the ground in this thrilling dirt-behind-the-fingernails performance.

The Brothers Robinson were match fit and ready for these two shows recorded on October 18th/19th at the Greek Theatre in 1999. The original album was released in February 2000, when the Crowes were arguably at their peak after becoming one of the best live rock acts of the 90s. 25 years on, the sound is better than ever, Jimmy Page suggests: “The new mixes capture the collaboration of those historic encounters and provide the full explosive passion and exciting energy of those alchemical moments.”

A typical example is during a potent Custard Pie, a real highlight with its stop/start funky riff and the late Eddie Harsch on keys who gets stuck in. Page’s idiosyncratic solo has never sounded quite like this. Chris Robinson’s soulful harmonica plays over a sonically tuned in Page and Rich Robinson, who delve into a melodious sonic soup of licks and riffs. The same bubbling energy filters into Sick Again, “How you doin’, how you doin'” Chris Robinson asks the audience before Page and his brother riff on the Crowes’ favourite No Speak No Slave. Gorman’s drumming takes everything to another level.

The band knows exactly when to pull back, breathe and let Page go during a bright performance of Your Time Is Gonna Come with its electric country riffs. It’s also a joy to hear Page’s distinctive tones during She Talks To Angels, he brings another dimension to an already classic song.

The flexibility between Audley Freed, Rich Robinson and Page continues during a memorable version of The Wanton Song. The material from Physical Graffiti, such as this and Ten Years Gone, lends itself well to the Crowes; not many could interpret some of Zeppelin’s finest work with the same colour and tone. Page with his dark rumbling riffs and brighter moments might suggest the right amount of light and shade. The 36-track anniversary album was produced, mixed, and remastered by Kevin Shirley and includes the addition of unreleased cuts such as the Crowes’ timeless hit Remedy from 1992.

The swing and rock groove is a boon to Eddie Harsh, who is dominant on keys. The band’s instincts are spot on during the triple Les Paul assault of Whole Lotta Love, Chris Robinson’s soulful, unyielding vocal delivers the goods, and there are not many who could take on one of Robert Plant’s finest moments and do it justice.

A much-needed reminder of how vital rock n’ roll collaborations can be when done as well as this.

David Gray aims to end the season as strongly as possible with a victory over Rangers in the final game of the William Hill Premiership season.

Hibs confirmed third place on Wednesday night at the SMiSA Stadium, but Gray wants his players to be right at it this afternoon.

When speaking to Hibs TV ahead of this weekend’s tie, he explained his message to his squad.

“We want to end the season as strongly as possible. It’s been a long time since we beat Rangers at home in the top-flight, so it’s a difficult thing to do. We want to keep momentum going, finish on a high, and the players would deserve that for their efforts this season.

“We go into the game full of confidence, knowing the fans will be right behind us, it’s almost a sell-out, and these are the games every player wants to be involved in.”

Hibs beat Rangers at Ibrox in the last meeting between the two sides, and performed admirably in a 3-3 draw at Easter Road back in January, and Gray expects his players to take belief from those games.

“They’ve been very close games, and our players will take a lot of confidence from the recent results. Rangers will want to put that right, though. We’re expecting a reaction from them.

“There’s no such thing as a nothing game, especially when these two teams meet, the magnitude of the game and everything at stake.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity for the players to test themselves again. It’ll be a brilliant game to finish with.”

Fuselage, a powerful new play by Annie Lareau, rooted in her own experience of the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing over Lockerbie, is to receive its global premiere at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

It will be playing at the Pleasance Courtyard from Wednesday 30 July to Monday 25 August.

Continue reading here.

This is the most up to date list of roadworks, road closure and events leading to road closures or diversions for traffic in Edinburgh for the next week or so.

Unbelievably the closure of one lane on Calton Road has been shut since 2018 according to this list.

And on George IV Bridge while the closure of one lane for work on the former G & V Hotel (previously the Missoni) is said to have begun on 6 May 2025, this area has been narrowed and encroached on by building work for several years now. In January this year an announcement was made that the scaffolding would be coming down by November 2025. In recent days there has been some movement on the ground, but the scaffolding remains in place.

If you see anything on the roads which is not on the list then let the travel team know on Twitter @EdinTravel or otherwise you can check on the Scottish Roadworks register which is a comprehensive list of places to avoid.

Updated versions of the listings are posted to the website most weekday afternoons, these can be found by going to https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/edintravel

Any new works or events are marked in blue.. Read the full list below – which is arranged according to council Ward.

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Lana Taylor, Dione Roberts and Sam Hayhurst, who are all based in the Lothians, head for Ireland on Sunday with Scotland’s ladies fly fishing squad, determined to lift the team up the home international rankings.

They completed their group training sessions at the Lake of Menteith last Sunday and are confident they have a quality mix of youth and experience.

Their coach heads out from Stirling early on Sunday morning bound for Lough Lene and the journey, including the ferry, is expected to take around nine hours.

In their luggage are over 1,000 flies tied specially after doing their homework on the lough. The squad expect to use floating lines with dry flies, but as things can change in fishing, they are prepared for all eventualities.

Taylor is confident the Scots have put in the preparatory work and said: “It has been hectic leading up to now, but moral is high and the squad are determined.

“We have several members who are excellent fly tyers, so they have been kept very busy.”

The captain added: “My job now is to put the flies into boxes and we hope the patterns we have will do well on the day. We can catch fish in practice, but it is all about what happens on the actual day.”

Taylor and Roberts are from Edinburgh and Hayhurst is from Dalkeith. The rest of the squad are Helen Philp (Milnathort), Kathleen Shepherd (Forfar), Jane Wright (Cove), Morag Wallace, the current national champion, from Leslie in Fife, Jean Ferguson (Ayrshire), Dierdre Dunbar (originally from Annan), May Anderson (Bonnybridge) and Kirsty Murray (Dunfermline).

Liz Stringer (Glasgow) is the only debutant with Leanne Andrew as the travelling reserve. (Dumbarton)

The team manager is Gary Hamilton from Lanarkshire who has taken over from Iain Earle.

Taylor said: “We have experienced anglers and also some new team members who have really come on in the past year. They have learnt so much and we are really confident as a group.

“Our final group practice at the Lake of Menteith went very well with everyone catching fish. Next week we will be in Ireland, fishing for rainbows and brown trout and we have three practice days to learn about the water and the best places to fish before the match day on Thursday (May 22.”

Taylor, one of the more experienced anglers in the party, said: “We are determined to give it our best, we can do no more than that, but we are all feeling very positive and really looking forward to the competition.”

Locally, Bowden Springs near Linlithgow report that they have re-stocked and Graham Munro had nine including a 10lb brown, and Ian Hunter had seven, biggest 5lb.

Also in West Lothian, Linlithgow Loch say Gavin Green returned 24 fish and Tam Robinson and Marty Nelson both returned 17 trout and Mr Green 15. They have been visited by clubs including Waders, Bank of Scotland Glasgow District, and Rosyth Civil Service and Kelvinside Academicals.

Millhall near Polmont report mixed fishing but B Dewar and D Cooper switched between pulling snakes to buzzers and eggs to record 16 and 17. Dry flies orked bgest with overcast conditions and in th evening with yellow owl and other CDC’s catching.

Allandale Tarn say some nice fish are being hooked regularly, and Morton Fishings near Livingston have restocked with another full tank with Drumtassie near Blackridge also fishing well with Eric Gibson catching eight on Shipman’s buzzer and black spider patterns.

Loganlea near Penicuik report another productive week on the water with double-figure returns and neighbouring Glencorse have started improvement work to help anglers step in and out of boats easier.

Jock Kettles from Bonnyrigg and Lindsay Simpson, well known for his fly tying tutorials on YouTube, had what they called “a fantastic days sport” at Glencorse as they resume their KitKat Cup Challenge.

In East Lothian, Newlands Tweeddale confirm that regular Kevin Walkinshaw (Gorebridge) had 26 on FAB and buzzer patterns with Ron Macdonald (Haddington) 13 on the Vicar buzzer, Alex Rowley (Dalkeith) 12 on dry flies and James Fleming (Elphinstone) 11 on top hat and buzzer.

A date for your diary. Scotland’s bank team host a fund-raiser at Drumtassie on Sunday, May 25 with prizes for the first three places. There is a £40 entry fee.

Sea fishing now and Craig Ogilvie was top rod with five fish for 107cm in round three of the Bass Rock Shore Angling League’s summer series in a pegged match at Pease Bay.

There was a good surf running but quite a bit of weed in the water.

Second was Alan Brown (West Barns) with one fish for 30cm – he won the longest fish prize – and third P Grindley only 3cm behind with T Davanna fourth win 23cm and Graham Meadows (St Boswells) fifth with a fish of 18cm. Their next match is on Wednesday, May 21 at a venue to be decided.

Coarse fishing now and the Edinburgh and Lothians Coarse Angling Club host the second match of their summer series at Orchil near Auchterarder on Saturday, May 17. The first round of the Knockout Cup will also be held.

Finally, the Scottish Federation of Coarse Anglers hold the Strathclyde Open at Strathclyde Park on May 18. The draw is at Car Park 4 at 9am and fishing is from 11am to 4pm. Entry will be capped at 40 anglers and pike, eel, grayling and trout do not count.

PICTURE: Some of the team during a recent fund-raiser at Pottishaw. Picture Nigel Duncan

Livingston march on in the play-offs and remain on course to reclaim their place among the elite of Scottish football, a year after relegation.

David Martindale’s men beat Partick Thistle 2-0 in the Scottish Premiership play-off semi-final, second-leg, at the Set Fare Arena thanks to an opener from Jamie Brandon after 40 minutes and a superb chip from the edge of the box by Stevie May 37 minutes later.

That wrapped up a 4-0 aggregate over the Maryhill men and the West Lothian club now await the outcome of Sunday’s final Premiership bottom-six games to decide who they face in the play-off final.

Ross County currently occupy second-bottom spot in the William Hill Premiership with Dundee two points ahead of The Staggies.

Dundee, who drew 1-1 with County on Tayside on Wednesday, travel to now-relegated St Johnstone, who lost 2-1 at Hearts in midweek, while County host Motherwell who beat Kilmarnock 3-0 at Fir Park on Wednesday. Both matches kick-off at 15.00.

The other fixture in the bottom six sees Hearts at Kilmarnock (15.00).

Martindale’s fired-up side how have a chance of a quick return to the Premiership and the Almondvale-based club have a new majority shareholder and chairman. American businessman Calvin Ford is that man.

He told BBC Sport Scotland that he wants to engage with the fans.

Martindale said: “Two clean sheets and four goals. I’m delighted we’re through.”

Partick co-manager Mark Wilson said: “The boys were brave enough in the second-half to keep playing, but it just wasn’t enough in the end.”

PICTURE: David Martindale in the dugout at Easter Road. Credit Ian Jacobs

A dazzling century from skipper Dan Da Costa propelled Carlton to an 80 run victory over Grange in the Masterton twenty:20 cricket trophy at Grange this week.

Da Costa’s knock of 109 included 3×6’s and 14×4’s and was compiled off just 64 balls going in at first wicket down.

It was also a good night for teenager James Stronach whose unbeaten 22 came after he had amassed 75 not out in a 2^nd X1 match last weekend.

Chasing a formidable target of 174-6 was always going to be difficult for a young Grange side which included Ben Hodge, 14-year-old son of former Scotland rugby star Duncan Hodge.

Grange did bat out their overs but finished on 95-8.

In other Masterton Trophy matches played this week there were wins for Heriot’s, Edinburgh Accies and Watsonians against, respectively, Edinburgh South, Morton and Drummond Trinity.

Scheduled fixtures next week include:

Tuesday – Grange v Watsonians; Stewart’s Melville v Drummond Trinity.

Thursday – RHC Corstorphine v Morton; Heriot’s v Edinburgh Accies.

The dry weather in the past few weeks is evident in Stockbridge where the Antony Gormley statue is just paddling rather than wading in the Water of Leith.

The statues are modelled on the sculptor and there are six in the 6 Times installation which begins at the main pedestrian entrance to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art on Belford Road.

The next four are within the Water of Leith and are intended to show the seasons which “ebb and flow”.

Three other figures are downstream at Stockbridge, Powderhall and Bonnington. The final one is at the end of an abandoned pier at Leith Docks where the Water of Leith meets the Firth of Forth.

Police are asking for help from the public to trace a 24-year-old man reported missing from the Clackmannanshire area who has links to Edinburgh.

Adam Busby was reported missing on Saturday, 10th May 2025.

The last confirmed CCTV sighting of Adam was in Glasgow City Centre on Saturday, 10th May 2025.

He is known to frequent Glasgow city centre, Dumbarton and Kilsyth areas but also has associates in the Edinburgh area.

He is described as 6ft 2 in height, medium build with dirty blown hair in a skin fade. He was wearing a black top with blue jeans. He has a scar on the left side of his face.

Sergeant Anthony O’Reilly, Alloa Police Station, said: “We would ask anyone who has seen him, or knows where he might be to get in touch. I would also like to appeal to Adam himself to contact family, friends or our officers.

“Anyone with information about Adam’s whereabouts should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0954 of 10 May 2025.”

People in Edinburgh and the Lothians have been warned to look out for hedgehogs while gardening after a surge in injuries caused by garden tools such as strimmers.

The Scottish SPCA’s dedicated small mammal team is currently looking after 14 hedgehogs at its National Wildlife Centre in Fishcross, Clackmannanshire.

But they warned the number “is growing every day” as people take advantage of the warm weather to take on garden tasks.

Jenna Lister, triage assistant at the charity’s National Wildlife Centre, said: “With the arrival of warmer weather, we often see an increase in injured hedgehogs being brought into the centre — many of them hurt during gardening activities.

“Strimmer injuries can be devastating, ranging from infected wounds to broken or missing limbs, and in some cases, can be fatal.”

The West European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) has suffered a 30% population decline of in the past decade.

Last year, its conservation status was raised from Least Concern to Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, meaning it has moved one step closer to extinction.

Key factors driving the decline of Britain’s only spiny mammal include habitat fragmentation from urbanisation and agricultural expansion, vehicle collisions, pesticide use and garden mismanagement.

The Scottish SPCA cared for 89 hedgehogs in the first quarter of 2024, with 59 of the prickly mammals already finding refuge with the charity so far this year.

The charity frequently admits hedgehogs found out during the day in poor condition, which is usually a sign they’re unwell and in urgent need of specialist care and encourages people to employing wildlife-friendly garden management practices.

These include leaving natural materials like leaves, logs and moss, which make ideal nesting spots for hedgehogs; removing hazards such as netting and plastic and creating safe spaces for the animals to explore.

Gardeners are urged to check carefully before strimming, digging, or doing other work as hedgehogs often hide in undergrowth or leaf piles, and support the creatures by putting out shallow dishes of water and offering cat food or specially formulated hedgehog food — but never bread or milk.

Anyone who comes across a nest should check for signs of injury but avoid disturbing it and gently cover it back up if all seems well.

Anyone who finds a hedgehog showing signs of distress — such as lying on its side, wobbling, limping, or walking in circles, trapped in netting, drains, or holes – or showing visible injuries should call a wildlife rescue centre or the Scottish SPCA’s animal helpline 03000 999 999.

Former Hibernian and Raith Rovers defender Shaun Dennis has died at the age of 55.

Raith Rovers announced his death “with great sadness” and said he “had passed away peacefully” on Friday morning.

Signed by Jim Duffy from Raith Rovers in an effort to strengthen the Hibs defence he made his debut against Motherwell in January 1997.

He retained his place under Alex McLeish and helped the club win the First Division. Dennis was also at the heart of the defence in the famous Millennium derby victory at Tynecastle.

After 74-games and four goals he returned to Raith Rovers initially on loan. He subsequently was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame.

In total he played more than 400 games for the Kirkcaldy club and was capped once by Scotland Under-21s in 1991.

He twice helped Raith secure promotion to the top flight, and contributed to a promotion to the second tier .

He was also part of Jimmy Nicholl’s 1994 Scottish League Cup-winning side that beat Celtic on penalties in the final at Ibrox.

In a statement, Hibernian FC wrote:”Hibernian FC are saddened to learn of the passing of former Hibee Shaun Dennis.

“Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.

“Rest in peace Shaun.”

Raith Rovers FC said: “Everyone at Raith Rovers Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Rover Shaun Dennis.

“Shaun played 453 games for us and has won more winners’ medals than any player in Rovers’ history.

“Our thoughts are with Shaun’s loved ones at this sad time.”

EDINBURGH 40 ULSTER 17

The intensity was apparent from the start, with Edinburgh using their kicking to apply pressure to a tough Ulster defence.

Hive Stadium was treated to early action after Goosen gathered a kick through by Ulster, weaving through the defenders. In usual fashion he was able to offload the ball to find an invigorated Darcy Graham who broke free to score a 50m try.

It was a dream opening twenty minutes for Sean Everitt with his side extending their lead further. A strong lineout after botching two previously, Edinburgh broke off from the maul, a delayed pass from Price found Bradbury who smashed through two defenders to score at 15″.

Favour swung in Ulster’s way as they received a penalty try from Darcy Graham knocking the ball on in a 2v1 scoring opportunity. The Irish attack was clearly energised by this, and began to take form while Edinburgh seemed to be on the wrong side of everything.

Good fortune struck once more as South African winger Werner Kok found himself on the end of a Gossen fumble who was attempting to regather a kick through. Ulster were making good use of Edinburgh’s yellow card.

Further success came at the corner for the home side as Ewan Ashman showed immense power to make his way through a collection of defenders and put Edinburgh back in front.

The possession and momentum was well shared in the opening half with both teams showing what they can do in attack.

HT: EDINBURGH 19 – 12 ULSTER

Both teams returned to the field with continuity as each created opportunities, but to no avail. As at half time Edinburgh had secured their place in the top eight but they still had a long way to go with a tough second half.

A first real scoring opportunity of the half for Edinburgh was snuffed out by Kok with an excellent last-ditch tackle to put Graham in to touch.

Magnus Bradbury really found his feet in this game as he was bundled over with two supporting forwards propelling him securing a bonus point and sending Edinburgh closer to a play off spot.

The pressure was beginning to show for Ulster as mistakes seemed to be the only constant in their game. Pierre Schoemann was more than happy add to Ulster’s woes as he crashed over after multiple attempts at the line.

What was a tremendous break turned into a counter attacking masterclass from Ulster as they shifted it wide to Poselthewaite who went the whole way to score their only points of the half. This kind or any scoring opportunities came very rarely for Ulster combined with multiple errors was their downfall.

Not one, not two but three tries for Darcy Graham as he secured Edinburgh’s spot in the play offs, and surely his spot as a reserve in Andy Farrell’s lions squad this summer.

With that win Edinburgh have secured their spot in the URC quarterfinals with their opponents to be confirmed following the conclusion of all rounds 18 fixtures.

A well-deserved win for the capital men as they bested a stunned Ulster.

Scoring Sequence (Edinburgh first): 7-0, 12-0, 12-7, 12-12, 19-12, HT, 26-12, 33-12, 33-17, 40-17, FT

Yellow cards –

Edinburgh: Darcy Graham (24”)

Ulster:

MOTM: Magnus Bradbury

Attendance: 7,989

Teams:

Edinburgh: P.Schoemann(R.Hislop 74”), E.Ashman(P.Harrison), D.Rae(J.Sebastian 62”), M.Sykes, S.Skinner(G.Young 74”), B.Muncaster(J.Ritchie ), H.Watson, M.Bradbury (C), A.Price(C.Shiel 72”), R.Thompson(B.Healy 72”), H.Paterson, J.Lang(M.Bennett 68”), M.Currie, D.Graham, W.Goosen

Ulster: A.Warwick(C.Reid45”), R.Herring(T.Stewart 53”), T.O’Toole(S.Wilson 53”), K.treadwell, I.Henderson (C)T.Sheridan (65”), C, I.zuchukwu, N.Timoney, D.McCann, N.Doak(D.Shanahan 55”), J.Murphy(A.Morgan 51”), J.Stockdale(S.Moore 56”), S.McCloskey, J.Postelthwaite, W.Kok, M.Lowry

Hibs have triggered the one-year extension clause in Martin Boyle’s contract – keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Socceroo has scored 98 goals for the Club across the best part of 11 seasons – totalling 361 appearances to date. 

The 32-year-old first joined the Club on loan in 2015 before his move was made permanent later that year.

Since then, the ‘Starman’ has had many iconic moments in Hibs green and white – playing his part in the Scottish Cup 2016 triumph, before helping Hibs gain promotion back to the Premiership the following season. 

Boyle has gone from strength-to-strength ever since, with memorable moments in the Edinburgh Derby and against both of the Old Firm.

This season, the forward has had another standout campaign – registering 29 goal contributions (19 goals and 10 assists) – his best return in front of goal for Hibs. 

On triggering Boyle’s contract extension, Hibs head coach David Gray said: “We’re delighted to extend Martin’s contract, and this decision makes complete sense for the Football Club.

“Boyler has been an outstanding servant to Hibernian FC and his contribution on the field has been demonstrated yet again this season with his invaluable goals and assists. Not only that, he has also stepped into the role of Captain in Joe’s absence and has demonstrated his leadership qualities with extra responsibility.

“Having played with him and coached him, he is the type of player that knows exactly what it means to play for Hibernian FC, and he will be a real asset for us next year.”

Hibs Sporting Director, Malky Mackay added: “Martin has had an excellent campaign in front of goal, and he has played a key role in helping the Club achieve European football for next season.

“He’s an influential member of the dressing room and has grown as a leader this season with the added responsibility of being vice-captain. Martin’s got a long affiliation with the Club – his wife is the Captain of the Women’s Team – and he has a young family here too, so the extension made perfect sense for all parties involved.

“We’re looking to the future, having Martin as part of next year’s squad, as we enter an exciting time for the Football Club.”

BBC ALBA is bringing an action-packed weekend of football to viewers across the country with the final SPFL and SWPL fixtures of the season. 

Expect highs and lows as teams compete for survival or a place in the higher division next season in the SPFL Championship and League One play-offs –  

Watch the second-leg fixture unfold tonight (Friday 16 May) on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer (7.20pm ahead of 7.30pm kick-off) as Annan Athletic take on East Fife in the League One play-offs.  

The final Championship play-offs then take polace tomorrow (Saturday 17 May) as leading Airdrieonians face Cove Rangers, with live coverage on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer 8pm ahead of kick-off at 8.10pm. 

Fans can also catch the action from the SWPL on Sunday (18 May) as third-placed Glasgow City play against Heart of Midlothian. Live from Petershill Stadium, fans can watch on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer from kick-off at 12pm.   

Dwight Gayle has shared his sense of pride to play for Hibs and help the team secure third place in the William Hill Premiership this season.

The veteran forward has played an important role for Hibs this season, providing 10 goal contributions in 28 games – including a memorable winning goal in the Edinburgh Derby on Boxing Day.

With just one game of the 2024/25 season remaining, Hibs have wrapped up third place – bringing European Football back to Easter Road for the 2025/26 campaign.

Reflecting on the season as a whole, Gayle admitted how proud he was to be part of this Hibs team.

“I am buzzing for the Club to involved in European football next season and it has brought me nothing but pride to be involved in the team that has achieved that for the fans.

“Coming up here, I wanted to be involved in something and the way the season has gone has made it even more special. We were obviously struggling at the start, and things weren’t too great – but now I am leaving the Club in a much better position, there is a real buzz around the place, there is a great core to the group and I am sure they will start next season very bright.”

This Saturday’s William Hill Premiership clash with Rangers will likely be Gayle’s last in a Hibs shirt, with his contract up at the end of the season the 35-year-old plans to retire and he is eager to end on a high.

“I am still fixated on retiring and getting back to my family,” Gayle continued.

“The most important thing for me is my family and spending time with them, especially while they are at a young age.

“I am going to come to the games as a fan next season for sure, and bring my little man to the away games abroad.

“The boys were buzzing to get the result on Wednesday and to get the job done. Now the fans can enjoy the day, get behind us and we can finish the season with a good result for them.

“You can see what every game means to the boys – we are all desperate to win. Our mindset hasn’t changed in terms of how much we want to win, we know how much it would mean to beat Rangers at home so I am sure the boys will be fully focused on doing that.”

Police have arrested and charged an 18-year-old man in connection with a series of car thefts and attempted car thefts in West Calder, Whitburn, Edinburgh, Falkirk and Harthill.

The incidents took place between Wednesday, 9 April, and Thursday, 8 May, 2025.

The man is expected to appear at Livingston Sheriff Court on Wednesday, 11 June, 2025.

Detective Sergeant John Irvine, from West Calder Police Station, said: “We’d like to thank the public for their assistance with our enquiries.”

A 17-year-old male has been arrested and charged with multiple offences today Friday May 16 2025 following joint enforcement action by North West officers and the Edinburgh Violence Reduction Unit.

As a result of the operation officers said that another illegal electric motorcycle has taken off the streets.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers across the city are working daily to track down and seize these vehicles, recognising the impact they have on communities and their use in criminality.

“We continue to appeal to anyone with information that can support these efforts to contact us directly on 101 or through the Police Scotland website.

“You can also contact CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at https://orlo.uk/vkPb6“

Businesses in Edinburgh are set to be able to apply to use tables and chairs on the pavement for longer during the day.

At present, businesses outside of the Grassmarket area can keep tables and chairs in use from 9am to 9pm, with an extension to 10pm possible with a one-time fee and an environmental assessment.

But under new plans being put before councillors, businesses could become able to apply to use them between 7.30am and 9am, as well as from 9pm to 10pm.

The rules for the Grassmarket, where businesses can only use outdoor furniture from 12 noon to 9pm with no extensions possible, would remain the same.

Transport and Environment Committee convener, Labour councillor Stephen Jenkinson, said: “So currently, at the moment, if you have a business and you’re looking to have outside seating space, you can only operate it between about 9am until 10pm.

“The proposal is to change that. We’ve been listening to businesses, we’ve heard a lot of feedback from businesses that the 9 o’clock start is a bit of a problem.

“It’s impacting on the service they’re aiming to provide to their customers, and at certain times of the year – predominantly in the summer months – there’s a real desire from customers to actually utilise that outdoor space a little bit better.

“We’ve got a proposal in front of us to change that from a 9am start to a 7.30am start.”

Officers said the change was being sought to respond to requests from businesses, and to get more use out of the benefit offered by street furniture.

According to a report before the committee, outdoor seating helps provide ‘natural surveillance’ of city streets. And, it says it provides ‘vibrancy’ to areas where they exist.

The council’s policy on outdoor tables and chairs was last revised in 2007, though application fees have been since updated, with a cost of £206 per square metre in the world heritage site area and £163 per square metre elsewhere.

Cllr Jenkinson continued: “Certainly from a customer, a business point of view, I think that will be very well received.

“We’re hoping that creating that degree of flexibility will enhance the offering that businesses will be able to offer.”

He said that the council had not faced pressure to expand the 10pm end time of the use of outdoor furniture.

By Joseph Sullivan Local Democracy Reporter

Supermarket giants Lidl have lost their bid to put a store sign on top of a flagpole after it was ruled it would clash with an historic cemetery.

The food chain appealed to Scottish Ministers to allow the 6 metre high totem style sign at their store on St Kentigern Way, Penicuik, after Midlothian planners rejected it saying it was not in keeping with the nearby conservation area.

The appeal came after they successfully overturned planners objections to an illuminated sign on the store itself which had been described as ‘garish’.

But while Scottish Ministers had agreed the store sign was an acceptable, and expected, addition to the supermarket building itself, they drew the line at the flagpole advertising sign at the edge of its car park.

Throwing out Lidl’s appeal over the flagpole, the Scottish Government Reporter said its height would make it stand out.

He said: “The visual environment to the east of the location of the supermarket and the car parks includes the buildings of the historic town cemetery on Kirkhill Road.

“The cemetery includes a number of significant vertical elements, including the unusual square tower of Old St Mungo’s church.  I consider that a tall illuminated sign at the proposed location will be experienced as a significantly discordant element in views of the cemetery buildings and surrounding trees, and will substantially detract from the interest and visual
amenity which these buildings and the cemetery location gives to the town centre.”

He added that local residents who overlooked the store and car park would also be affected by the sign adding: ” in my view, it is probable that an illuminated sign on a 6 metre pole at the proposed location will be visible
from their windows, particularly in lower daylight levels, and when the trees are bare.

“I take the view that the tall illuminated sign is likely to adversely affect the amenity of these houses, even if none of the residents have objected to the proposed sign.”

The flagpole appeal is the latest round in a battle over signs at the Lidl  store which has spanned more than 15 years, and comes months after the store won an appeal to put illuminated signs on the shop front, which planners had also tried to ban

Midlothian Council repeatedly refused to give the food chain permission to replace the standard sign at their Penicuik store with ones which lit up with planners describing the illuminations as ‘garish’.

However Lidl argued that the council had allowed the modern store to be built in the conservation area and should have expected them to want modern signs.

The Reporter allowed the store sign but rejected Lidl’s claim that the flagpole was“to be expected in the town centre location and as part of a retail foodstore to provide awareness of the use of the building”.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Scottish Water staff will resume strikes after unions representing the workers Friday accused management at the company of ‘playing games’.

UNISON, Unite and GMB said negotiations at arbitration body Acas intended to resolve a pay dispute have been ‘fruitless’ as they broke down today when the company made a u-turn a previous proposal.

The unions say that Scottish Water had proposed an improved offer for pay and conditions worth an additional £1.2 million earlier this month, most of which was through a staff bonus scheme.

However, the unions say the additional bonus money was taken off the table today and an inferior offer put forward.

Unions say they are ‘bitterly disappointed’ with the outcome of the talks and have accused senior managers of playing games over pay.

Strike action will resume from Monday 2 June for seven days.

A Scottish Water spokesperson said: “These pay negotiations have been going on for 11 months. In that time Scottish Water has made seven offers.

“Our new proposal would see an average pay increase of around 7% over two years – comfortably above inflation.

“It would mean, for example, a Treatment Operator on a current salary of £31,205 would move to £33,980 (an increase of almost 9%).

“We have also included a minimum increase in each year which, when combined, comes to £2,775. This means some employees could see their base salary increase by 11% in that period.

“This is a good deal. It balances rewarding our hard-working people with investing customers’ money sensibly.

“It is now time for the joint trade unions to put the details to their members in a ballot so that our people can get these above inflation pay increases.

“Our employees have told us that they want this concluded so that they get their pay increases. We believe the offer we have made today can achieve this.”  

On 5 May Scottish Water said that the new pay proposal “is a combined average value of around 7% of salary for 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, well above inflation. Those in lower graded roles could receive total salary increases of almost 11% over this period. 

“All Scottish Water employees are also eligible for an annual out-performance bonus and the business recently reduced the working week to 35 hours from 37 hours previously.”

UNISON Scotland regional manager Simon Macfarlane said: “Unions are bitterly disappointed with today’s talks. After eleven months of fruitless negotiations, there seemed to be some progress.

“But making staff an inferior offer to the one previously proposed is just playing games. 

“Each union will consult its members on this latest offer, but the company should be clear that strike action is back on next month.

“The people of Scotland deserve better. Scottish Water workers want to be out in communities providing a world-class water system at a time when the dry weather is putting the service under strain. But instead they’re having to fight to get fair pay.”

GMB Scotland organiser Claire Greer said: “As the rest of the country basks in the sunshine, management in Scottish Water have once again managed to throw shade at all of their employees.

“An offer was on the table in a bid to resolve this ongoing dispute and it is now clear that it was utterly disingenuous. Once again Scottish Water has absolutely shattered employee relations and has completely misread the situation. 

“Management’s ability to play games with unions and employees is staggering. A second offer that Scottish Water has scattered to the winds has left us with no option other than to continue with industrial action.”

Unite Scotland regional officer Sam Ritchie said: “It is extremely disappointing that Scottish Water management has chosen to place itself in this position.

“We have engaged in wage negotiations in good faith and, as a gesture of that good faith, suspended our planned industrial action. However, the offer presented to the unions nearly two weeks ago now appears to have been disingenuous.

“Scottish Water management continues to disregard the voices of the workforce we represent, responding instead with actions that reflect a concerning disconnect.

“Furthermore, chief executive Alex Plant, whose salary exceeds that of the prime minister, has once again declined to engage directly with the representatives of his workforce.

“This lack of meaningful engagement has left the unions with no viable alternative but to move forward with industrial action.”

The East of Scotland tennis Open gets underway this weekend at Craiglockhart and George Watson’s College courts with a lot to live up to.

Only a few weeks ago the event was named “competition of the year” in the Tennis Scotland annual awards and a bumper entry confirms it is as popular as ever.

Events range from under-8’s upwards and also incorporated will be a wheelchair tennis tournament as well as padel.

Top seeds in the main singles are Katie Gater (women) and Ewan Moore (men).

Much local interest will centre on Fraser Swan (Thistle) who is seeded sixth among the men while Hanna Augustynska, playing out of Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, and Aadya Iyer Chadalawada (David Lloyd, Newhaven) are highly promising teenagers seeded sixth and fourth respectively.

Earlier this year the girls teamed up to reach the semi-final of the Lexus British under-16 doubles.

Another to keep an eye out for the in under-14s is Watson’s College pupil Jack Fair playing out of Grange. Shrewd judges are tipping him for an exceptional career.

Main seedings – Men – 1. Ewan Moore; 2, David Killean; 3. Fraser Watters; 4. Liam O’Brien; 5. Adam Clunie; 6. Fraser Swan; 7. Callum McGinn; 8. Findlay Pratt.

Women – Katie Gater. 2. Heather Barlow; 3. Zoe Moffat; 4. Aadya Iyer Chadalawada; 5.. Kirsty Robertson; 6. Hanna Augustsynska; 7. Anna McKnight; 8. Anna McBride.

The event carries £700 prize money in both men’s and women’s events with £350 earmarked for runners-up.

Finals day on Sunday May 25 will be live streamed via the following links:

Centre Court – https://www.youtube.com/live/LVrs1vB-giE?si=1aVPOCMg99SCten3

Court 1 – https://www.youtube.com/live/wnb1Ye2GwVA?si=Vvbpz56ijUvyPsEH

• Jacob Fearnley, British No 2 male from Edinburgh, is back in action on the pro tour next week contesting the Geneva Open. Jacob’s rapidly improving ranking – world No 58 – has gained him direct entry to the main draw along the likes of Novak Djokovic, Taylor Fritz and recent Madrid Open winner Caspar Ruud without having to qualify.

Police community officers, along with specialist departments and resources carried out a day of action yesterday Thursday 15 May 2025 in relation to illegal bikes/Surrons in the south-east of Edinburgh.

Burdiehouse, Lasswade Road, Southhouse were the main areas targeted as well as some other areas that have been highlighted as areas of concern.

A quad bike and off-road bike were seized along with one male charged with various driving offences.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We will continue to make every effort to identify those responsible, but we rely on the public and communities to give us information about the use and storing of these bikes, so please help us to catch them.

“If you have any information regarding the use of illegal bikes, you can call anonymously on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A village shop which was barred from selling alcohol just before Christmas two years ago is bidding to have its licence reinstated.

The Premier store, in Gifford, was ordered to stop selling booze by East Lothian Licensing Board in December 2023 after it was claimed the premises manager was not a ‘fit person’ to operate it.

At the time the board’s licensing standards officer raised concern about staff at the store, training and a lack of management oversight.

Next week the board will hear an application from a new premises manager Prasanth Baskaran to take over the shop and introduce alcohol sales again.

No objections have been lodged by Police Scotland however the licensing standards officer’s report raised continued concern about the operations at the store.

In it she says the former manager remains landlord of the shop and during a visit to it last month staff appeared not to know who their new boss was.

She adds: “I asked the staff member if Mr Baskaran worked at the shop and was told no. He said he was one of three staff members who lived together at the rented property Gifford (at the address of applicant given).

“Currently I’m concerned about the applicant’s apparent lack of involvement in the premises.”

Despite concerns the officer adds the shop is the only convenience store in the village and the application is compliant with the Licensing Act.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE 17/11/25 Liam Smith, who was reported missing from West Lothian, has been traced.

“Thank you to everyone who shared our appeal.”

Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace a missing 28-year-old man.

Liam Smith was last seen in the Lindsay Road area of Edinburgh during the evening of Sunday 11th May 2025.

Mr Smith who lives in the Kirknewton area of West Lothian, has not been seen since and there are growing concerns for his welfare. He has connections throughout Edinburgh.

He is described as male, white, 6ft, slim build, with short brown hair.

He is known to wear a baseball cap and blue furry lined jacket.

Anyone who may have seen him since this time, or who has any information on his whereabouts, is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 1754 of 15th May 2025.

Police are asking for the help of the public to trace a 16-years-old reported missing in Edinburgh.

Kelvin Boamah was reported missing around 0900am on Thursday, 15 May, from the Capella Gardens area.

Please contact us on 101, if you can help, quoting reference number 0832 of Thursday, 15 May, 2025.

Jack Iredale is one of four Hibs players named in a 23-man Socceroos squad for an intensive training camp in Abu Dhabi.  

Iredale joins teammates Martin Boyle, Lewis Miller and Nectar Triantis in the United Arab Emirates. 

Greenock born Iredale who was capped at under-17 level back in 2012 has consistently expressed his desire to force his way into the Australia squad. 

His outstanding performances for Hibs this season has made that ambition come true. 
 
The camp which begins on May 20 will form a key part of Australia’s preparations for the upcoming AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 fixtures against Japan and Saudi Arabia. 

After the camp head coach Tony Popovic will pick a 26-man squad to face Japan in Perth and Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. 
 
The Socceroos will take on Japan at Optus Stadium here in Perth on Thursday, 5 June (kick-off 7.00pm local / 9.00pm AEST) and Saudi Arabia at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Jeddah on Tuesday, 10 June (9.15pm local / 2.15am WST – Wednesday, 11 June). 

Full squad: Maty Ryan, Joe Gauci, Paul Izzo, Tom Glover; Milos Degenek, Jason Davidson, Cam Burgess, Lewis Miller, Ryan Strain, Alex Gersbach, Jack Iredale; Riley McGree, Connor Metcalfe, Keanu Baccus, Anthony Caceres, Max Balard, Nectar Triantis, Paul Okon-Engstler; Martin Boyle, Adam Taggart, Brandon Borrello, Kusini Yengi, Nicolas Milanovic. 
 

What a weekend awaits for Hibs fans.

The Under-18s host Aberdeen tonight as the boys look forward to lifting the CAS Elite Youth League trophy to cap a fantastic season.

The game kicks off at 6pm and fans are invited to attend, free of charge.

Darren McGregor’s side secured the league title last week with a thumping 4-0 win over Kilmarnock at Ayrshire College. 

Tomorrow Rangers visit Easter Road for the final match of the season. With third place secured, a full house is anticipated giving the fans a chance to pay tribute to the team that finished in third place.

The game also allows supporters to remember friends and family that passed away during the season including Sir Tom Farmer.

Then on Sunday Hibernian Women travel to Ibrox for the final SWPL game of the season.

Should Grant Scott’s side avoid defeat, they will win their first title in 18-years.

The newest member of the Herringbone family has just opened its doors on Friday morning.

Herringbone Barnton will welcome its first guests on Friday bringing its cool but casual flair and signature hospitality to the suburbs.

The stylish new bar and restaurant is the fourth Herringbone site to be opened by award-winning hospitality group Buzzworks, joining popular sister venues in Goldenacre, Abbeyhill and North Berwick.

Chris Robinson, General Manager of Herringbone Barnton, said: “We’re so excited to be opening our doors here in Barnton – it’s such a fantastic community, and we really feel we’re bringing something special to the area. 

“The venue looks incredible, our team has been training hard and is full of energy, and we just can’t wait to welcome everyone in.

“There’s a real buzz about the place already, and it’s been amazing to see how excited people are to have a Herringbone on their doorstep.

“We’ve poured a lot of love into every detail, from the menu to the interiors, and we hope our guests are going to feel that from the moment they walk in.”

The food menu has been crafted around daytime favourites, vibrant evening plates and gourmet burgers – all prepared fresh daily – and, for the first time at a Herringbone venue, the team will serve up handmade, sourdough pizzas.

Food will be served from 9am daily, with full breakfasts, coffees, breakfast bowls, toasted croissants, avocado on toast, and much more available.

Guests will also be able to enjoy more than 30 wines by the glass, seasonal cocktails, and local craft beer, with stylish interiors, a central bar, and expansive windows creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere.

Chris added: “Whether you’re stopping in for a laid-back brunch, catching up over dinner with friends, or enjoying a relaxed drink at the bar, there’s truly something for everyone.

“We’re here to be a neighbourhood favourite, and we can’t wait for the locals to come in and make it their own.”

To explore the menus, and to book a table, visit: www.herringbone-barnton.co.uk, or stay-up-to-date on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Herringbone is part of the award-winning Buzzworks group, which has been recognised as one of the top 100 companies to work for in the UK and is committed to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment.

The company offers competitive rates of pay, industry-leading training and development opportunities, and flexible working options to help team members achieve a healthy work-life balance.

www.belongatbuzzworks.com

I’ll admit it: when Edinburgh Street Food (ESF) first opened in February 2023, I ran in the opposite direction.

The queues snaking out the door triggered my university canteen PTSD – that dreaded fear your preferred option would vanish before you reached the counter.

Two years later, I’m eating my words (and much more) after giving this vibrant food hub another chance. Tasked with finding somewhere to accommodate an old Bass colleague from 35 years ago and his rugby-mad sons before a Six Nations match, ESF’s location and diverse offerings made it the perfect choice.

In fact, I’ve become something of a convert, visiting twice in just one week. My first return was purely accidental – playing tourist in my own city after the Tartan Day Parade left me famished. Despite the glorious weather drawing crowds to both their indoor and outdoor seating areas, I easily secured a spot.

What struck me immediately was the welcoming atmosphere for solo diners. I found myself sharing a table with a young Australian traveller from Adelaide who had chosen noodles from Harajuka Kitchen. We struck up a delightful conversation that transformed a simple meal into a memorable half-hour exchange.

Service runs with impressive efficiency under George, a familiar face in Edinburgh’s hospitality scene, who expertly commands his energetic young team. The ordering system offers welcome flexibility – scan a QR code, flag down a blue-shirted server, or order directly from vendors.

My positive experience prompted another pre-theatre visit before catching Moulin Rouge at the Playhouse. On a Tuesday evening, ESF hummed with energy without feeling overwhelming. This time I sampled those Harajuka’s Stir-Fry Udon Noodles with Vegetables and Karage Chicken that had tempted me on my earlier visit, while my companion tackled Fred’s Back Your Barbecue’s gloriously messy Texas Whole Hog Sandwich and Fries with San Marzano Ketchup from Fat Patty’s.

The venue isn’t just about everyday dining – it’s becoming an events hub too. Their Eurovision party on Saturday promises European-inspired street food alongside cocktails and big-screen viewing of all those questionable performances and political voting patterns. They’re even taking bookings for groups of 10+ specifically for this glitter-filled extravaganza.

ESF’s genius lies in accommodating diverse tastes within one location. My friends remain baffled by my pizza aversion, but here everyone finds something to satisfy their cravings. The new seasonal menu offers mouthwatering options like Street Food Sessions’ Crispy Shredded Chilli Beef with Szechuan sauce and egg noodles, Bundits’ Instagram-worthy Tornado Potato (a deep-fried spiral-cut whole potato on a skewer), and Antojitos’ Crispy Enoki Tacos.

For meat lovers, The Peruvian’s Lomo Saltado – stir-fried steak strips, spring onions, tomatoes and coriander, served with chips and garlic rice had me hooked and satiated, while Fred’s Backyard Barbecue Alabama White Sauce Chicken Drumsticks with just the right kick, and Street Food Sessions slow-roasted Char Sui Pork Belly in soy caramel glaze, both came a close second choice.

Sweet tooths won’t be disappointed with SoftCore’s  Sundae.  I loved by Miso Caramel and choclate with honeycomb bits or you could go for a diabetic coma and try one of their very sticky, candy floss encased SoftCore’s cones.  Not for me but the kids around me seemed to be loving it.

Whether you’re catching a show at Edinburgh Playhouse, heading to Edinburgh Rugby, or simply seeking somewhere to enjoy sunshine and good food, Edinburgh Street Food deserves another look. I’m genuinely glad I set aside my initial queue-phobia and rediscovered this gem.

In a city renowned for its culinary offerings, ESF has carved out a special niche – casual yet high-quality, bustling yet accessible. It’s the perfect solution when dining with friends who can never agree on what to eat, or when flying solo and open to conversation with fellow food enthusiasts.

So next time you’re in the neighbourhood, do what I didn’t do two years ago – look past any queues and dive into the vibrant world of Edinburgh Street Food. Trust me, this time it’s worth the wait.

Edinburgh Street Food, Leith Street (next to Omni), Edinburgh

Edinburgh-based insurance repair and renovation specialists is expanding with the launch of a new property maintenance service.

INSUREPAIR, the all-trades business, has established a strong reputation in the sector and is looking to build on that with the new division which will offer everyday support from its Morningside base.

The firm is committed to supporting the homes and families of Edinburgh, forging stronger links with the community in the process, and operations director Christina Purves said: “This was the natural next step for us.

“People know us for helping them after a crisis such as flooding or fire, or transforming their space.

“Now, we’re delighted to offer everyday support – from small repairs to regular upkeep – ensuring homes stay safe, sound, and looking their best.

“Our property maintenance service is designed to take the stress out of homeownership, with a friendly and experienced team ready to assist with everything from painting, plumbing and electrical issues to joinery, plastering, and more.”

Employing, electricians, joiners, plasterers, plumbers, painters and decorators, tilers and kitchen and bathroom fitters, no job will be too small for the newly-established department.

“We are now situated in the heart of the community and have been really well received since moving into our new Morningside hub.

“This new arm to the company will help us serve the local area in the friendly, trustworthy and professional manner we are known for. We are a ‘one-stop shop, no job will be too small for us and we’d urge people to pop into our new offices for a chat to learn more about how we can help.”