Nick Montgomery’s men fell to a 2-1 loss away to Ross County, heaping further pressure onto the Hibs’ boss.

Myziane Maolida initially put the Leith side 1-0 up, but a first-half equaliser from former Hibee Simon Murray and a late Jordan White winner sealed the three points for County, which were enough for them to climb out of the relegation play-off place.

Hibs dominated the early proceedings and were rewarded after 15 minutes, Rocky Bushiri’s effort cannoned off the post and Maolida could not miss as he tapped home.

Only moments later County had equalised, Bushiri, involved again, attempted to clear a cross from the right, but his poor header only fell to Murray whose first-time finish flew into the bottom corner.

Both sides had chances to take the lead throughout the contest, with Eamonn Brophy and Maolida coming closest.

Then, with 88 minutes on the clock, it was déjà vu in Dingwall for Hibs as they conceded late on again.

It was another gift from the away side, Theo Wollacott gave the ball away with a poor pass and was punished as substitute Jordan White fired home to clinch a huge three points for the Staggies in their relegation battle.

Another disappointing away result for Nick Montgomery who faced some angry Hibs fans in the away end as he went over to applaud the travelling support.

After the Hibs board issued a statement demanding an improvement in the final five games post-split, the Head Coach will hope his side can put on an improved performance next Sunday at home to Aberdeen.

Captain Tom Swarbrick held the Scottish Cup aloft to signal wild celebrations for underdogs Watsonians at Glasgow’s National Hockey Centre.

They turned the form book upside down to edge newly-crowned Premiership champions Grange 3-2 with a goal inside the final two minutes.

Watsonians, beaten on three previous occasions by their Capital rivals this season, opened the scoring in the second quarter of the game through Fraser Sands who guided a pass from Owen Hunter into the bottom corner, but Grange levelled minutes later via a penalty corner from Robbie Croll and the scoreline stayed that way at half-time.

Grange then took the lead half way through the third quarter, Dylan Bean netting a drag flick, but two goals in the final session, one from Dan Coultas, who fired the ball low into the backboard to level and another from Nathan Liggett, who forced the ball home from close range, secured the silverware.

Watsonians finished fourth in the Premiership table with 20 points, 23 points adrift of Grange. In fact, Watsonians only won six games out of 16 in the league while Grange won 14 and lost only once.

The defeat is a major blow for Grange who only weeks ago eyed a glory treble but also lost to Western Wildcats in the play-off final.

On Sunday, Watsonians women face Western Wildcats in the women’s Scottish Cup Final and victory for them, and they are outstanding favourites, would secure a memorable double for the Edinburgh club.

In the men’s Scottish Plate Final, The University of Edinburgh won 5-1 against Dundee Wanderers but Erskine Stewart’s Melville lost 3-1 to Grove Menzieshill in the men’s District Plate Final.

And in the District Cup Final, Hillhead 2s lost 4-1 to The University of Edinburgh 2s.

PICTURE: Watsonians in action against Western Wildcats at Tipperlin earlier this season. Picture Alex Rose

Hearts travelled to Parkhead in confidence having won their two previous clashes with Celtic, but they returned along the M8 after a 3-0 defeat by The Bhoys who continue to lead the cinch Premiership.

Kyogo Furuhashi netted twice after four and 21 minutes, the first time that he has scored more than one in a game in a year, and Matt O’Riley scored from the spot after 87 minutes to move on to 84 points from 35 games and heap pressure on Old Firm rivals Rangers who are now six points behind but who host Kilmarnock at Ibrox on Sunday (13.00). 

Earlier, the Jambos took the game to Celtic from the first whistle, defender Dexter Lembikisa whipping the ball towards goal and Lawrence Shankland fired for goal. The ball was turned behind for a corner.

Three minutes later Celtic went in front from a corner. O’Riley’s ball was met by Kyogo who headed into the net for 1-0 and the visitors responded when Cammy Devlin’s volley forced former England international Joe Hart into a fine save.

Then Cameron Carter-Vickers sent a header over the bar from a corner and it was no surprise when the home side went 2-0 ahead and Kyogo did the damage after 21 minutes.

Then goalkeeper Zander Clark kept Hearts in the game saving from Greg Taylor and O’Riley and the international stopper also saved from Kyogo as the first-half ended.

Then central defender Kye Rowles saved Hearts with a timely tackle before Clark was called upon again to deny Reo Hatate and Nicolas-Gerrit Kuhn.

Steven Naismith, Hearts’ head coach, rang the changes with Jorge Grant and Lembikisa off and Scott Fraser and Nathanial Atkinson on. Later Stephen Kingsley and Devlin were taken off and Yutaro Oda and Barrie McKay introduced.

Soon after, Oda forced Hart into another fine save and more there were more changes for Hearts as Vargos exited and Kyosuke Tagawa entered the fray.

It was, however, Celtic who counted when they were awarded a penalty for handball by Shankland after a VAR check. O’Riley did the rest from the spot and in-form Celtic, who impressed throughout, coasted to victory. 

Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s manager, told BBC Sport Scotland, there was real energy in the stadium and he added: “In a big game we had big performances and big contributions.”

Naismith said: “The result is disappointing, poor and frustrating but, in the performance, there was loads of good stuff.”

Celtic now host Rangers next Saturday (12.30) while Hearts entertain Dundee (15.00).

PICTURE: Library picture of Lawrence Shankland in action

A model railway exhibition will return to Edinburgh after many years.

Rainbow Railways, the Linlithgow-based model shop responsible for organising the recent Linlithgow Model Rail show, will head for Edinburgh on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June 2024. The business will support the first model railway exhibition to be run by the Edinburgh and Lothians Miniature Railway Club (E&LMRC) for some time.
The exhibition will be held in the Senior School Assembly Hall at George Watson’s College, Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH10 5EG on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June 2024 between 10am and 5pm each day.

Rainbow Railways are just one of six traders supporting the new venture.

There will be 13 layouts on display from all over Scotland in five different scales/gauges with six traders and two societies also attending.

The Club’s secretary said: “I’m grateful to all our traders for their support and confidence in helping launch this new exhibition in Edinburgh, but particularly Rainbow Railways who were the first business to get behind this new venture for us, which has allowed us to create a fun day out for collectors, enthusiasts, and families alike, with something on offer for all ages and interests.”

Colin Rae one of the directors of Rainbow Railways said:“It’s been a very busy few years for us building up our business in Linlithgow and expanding our local and national show calendar, which we support and attend.

“The number of Model Rail Exhibitions in central Scotland has never been stronger with great exhibits on show for those looking for a fun day out. It’s also great to see an exhibition return to Edinburgh and we are very pleased to be a part of this return.”

There will be a chance to operate one of the layouts yourself thanks to the Dundee Model Railway Club, who will be bringing ‘Dain’s Yard’: a small layout to allow attendees to practise shunting skills.

The venue is fully accessible for all and there will be an on-site café serving a selection of hot and cold food and drinks to allow you to make this a great day out.
There will also be a raffle with over £400 worth of models from Rapido Trains UK as prizes, with the star prize being a Great Eastern Railway tram pack. The prototype was the inspiration for Toby the Tram Engine in the books about Thomas the Tank Engine: a character known to and loved by millions.
Tickets can be purchased on the day at a cost of £8 for Adults (16+), £3 for Children (5-15), and a Family ticket (2+2) will cost £18. However, advanced tickets can be purchased on-line at a discounted price through https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/elmrc until 31 May 2024.

Full details of the layouts and traders that are attending are on the club’s website at https://elmrc.org.uk/elmrc-exhibition/.

Oil Train passes a passenger train to Fort William at Tulloch Bridge
© Martin Stewart

This weekend until Monday the Seafood Festival has returned to St James Quarter.

Enjoy the world of Scottish seafood in the heart of the city with live cooking demonstrations, supper clubs with only a dozen seats available at each meal, original one off menus and a fresh produce market.

Some of the best chefs from Scotland will be showing off their skills like John Maltby from SUSHISAMBA, Teddy Lee from Maki & Ramen, Sandy Browning from Ka Pan, Jimmy Lee from Salt & Chilli and Leith Woks, Max Terheggen from Duck & Waffle, Roberta Hall-McCarron from The Little Chartroom and Dan Ashmore from ASKR.

In the marketplace there will be other foods from local artisans such as smoked fish from Harris & Lewis, macarons from Lozzie Bakes, Isle of Mull Seaweed Chutney and doughnuts from Seriously Dough. There will be pop up bars and the Nae Bother Foods food truck will be on Register Square with its fresh fish and chips.

Susan Hewlett, St James Quarter Brand and Marketing Director, said, “We are delighted to welcome back such a great event which we know really resonates with our guests. Edinburgh Seafood Festival offers us the opportunity to not only celebrate the ‘great taste on every level’ here, but also the wonderful abundance of seafood from around Scotland as well as supporting greater awareness of the importance of protecting our seas and coastline.

“Hosting the Edinburgh Seafood Festival allows guests to enjoy some of the most exciting Seafood experiences, from exquisite Supper Clubs to renowned local chef demonstrations along with market stalls selling great Scottish produce, visitors can watch, learn, buy and hopefully experiment at home. There is something for everyone.”

More information here.

Three care homes in Edinburgh have teamed up with local children joining a nationwide campaign to save traditional recipes from being forgotten.

A poll of 2,000 adults carried out by Care UK, which operates Cairdean House, on Redford Road, Lauder Lodge, on Wakefield Avenue, and Murrayside, on South Beechwood, found almost two-thirds (65%) of the nation no longer use family recipes that have been handed down through the generations, however, 43% of people surveyed are keen to save them.

In a bid to prevent family recipes passed down through generations from being lost forever, Care UK has launched a free downloadable recipe book – Recipes to remember, which features recipes shared by care home residents across the UK. From food enjoyed during World War Two to quirky desserts from the 1970s, the book includes residents’ favourite foods, alongside recipes tailored to support older people by Care UK’s award-winning chefs.

Keen to keep their recipes bubbling away in Edinburgh for many years to come, residents from Cairdean House have rolled up their sleeves and donned their aprons, to go head-to-head with pupils from Colinton Primary School in a special baking competition to show just how tasty their food favourites from the past are.

At Lauder Lodge, residents and grandchildren joined forces for a special cooking afternoon, preparing some of the residents’ favourite recipes – all while donning chefs’ hats and aprons.

Meanwhile, residents at Murrayside welcomed children from Bright Sparks Nursery. Together, they prepared and decorated tasty shortbread biscuits, while discussing their favourite foods with each other.

The shortbread recipes came from Murrayside resident Jean Wishart, who said: “I was delighted that the children showed such interest in my family’s shortbread recipe. It tasted just as good as I remembered!”

Kat Barnwell, Home Manager at Cairdean House, said: “Spring is in the air – and so too are the smells of some incredibly tasty home-cooked recipes adored by residents and their families for generations.

“Just like a photograph, a family recipe can be a way to revisit the past and reminisce on a cherished memory or loved ones. How something tastes or smells can be a powerful tool for triggering memories and positive feelings, especially for those living with dementia, which is why we’re delighted to be taking part in Care UK’s Recipes to remember campaign.

“From jam roly-poly to shortbread, it’s been wonderful seeing the residents revisit some of their favourite foods from across the decades with pupils from Colinton Primary School. Arctic rolls might be out of flavour but it’s clear from how well the resident’s recipes were enjoyed that there’s still a hunger for foods from the past today – so donut give up on them!”

To find out more about Care UK’s Recipes to remember initiative or to download your copy of the recipe book, please visit: careuk.com/recipes-to-remember

Cairdean House, Lauder Lodge and Murrayside care homes have been specially designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care homes incorporate space for hobby and leisure activities, and have their own cinemas, hair salons and cafés.

Musselburgh go into the 78th staging of their own seven-a-side rugby tournament at Stonehill on Saturday 4 May looking to complete a “hat-trick” in local events.

The Honest Toun men followed up their success at North Berwick by defeating Hearts and Balls in the final of the Haddington tournament last weekend.

Heriot’s are defending and they will kick off the tournament with a Pool A tie against Watsonians. Dunbar complete that group.

Pool B features the hosts, Edinburgh Accies and Murrayfield while Group C comprises King’s College, a President’s V11 and Haddington.

Completing the line-up will be Highland, Young Barbarians and North Berwick.

At stake over the afternoon will be the Festival Shield and the Calum Veitch Memorial Trophy with Musselburgh expected to draw from the following pool that has proved successful so far on the Spring circuit: Paul Bogie, Gavin Inkster, Matthew Crawford, Matthew McMillan, Paul Bogle, Rory Smith, Ollie Craig, Jordan Lister, Robbie Reid and Finlay Craig.

Stellar Monarchs’ No 1 Josh Pickering stands in for crocked Lewis Kerr as the tapes go up for Berwick Jewson Bandits in their Cab Direct Championship campaign at home to Poole Pirates on Saturday (7pm).

Pickering top scored for Monarchs against Poole in the Knockout Cup, quarter-final, second-leg at Armadale on Friday, scoring 13 points including three heat wins in five starts in a 47-43 win.

The popular Aussie also recently accumulated 16 points at Shielfield Park for Edinburgh. Bandits, incidentally, normally track Richard Lawson as guest but he lines up at No 1 for the Pirates on the night.

Jye Etheridge is fit to return for Bandits after missing their last meeting with back and neck injuries and Berwick team manager, Stewart Dickson, said: “Poole are many people’s pre-season favourites and they are a good side, but I also think there are areas where we can hurt them.

“We need the Drew (Kemp) who scored 12 points against Scunthorpe and we need Jye to rediscover his early season home form as well as everyone else doing their jobs.

“This is one of those meetings that you just want to win to set the tone for the season. It doesn’t matter whether it’s by two points or ten, just get the points on the board.”

Pirates promoter Dan Ford said: “We might have something of a ‘secret weapon’ in that Richard has always gone well there and only last week he scored an impressive maximum when he covered for the injured Lewi Kerr, but one man can’t win a meeting on their own.

“The lack of meetings as a unit has not helped us and we would have preferred to have gone into this schedule with more meetings behind us, but the weather has just been foul and we can now only hope that we are through the worst of conditions and look forward to a flurry of meetings.”

PICTURE: Josh Pickering and his pit crew before a meeting at Armadale. Picture Nigel Duncan
 

Royal Forth Yacht club at Granton invite anybody interested in sailing to come to their Discover Sailing event on Sunday, May 5 from noon to 4pm.

It’s an annual event and is said to be popular and anybody interested is advised to arrive early if they are keen to experience the sport and are potentially interested in joining the club.

A spokesman said: “No experience required. Everybody welcome. There is no need to book in advance, simply come on the day, register at the door and get on the water.

“We will, of course, keep an eye on weather developments and make all judgements on the day.”

If you have any questions about the event contact discoversailing@royalforth.org and the club telephone number is 0131 552 8560.

The club is at Granton Harbour and the address is Middle Pier, Edinburgh EH5 1HF.

PICTURE: from our library

Edinburgh’s Waverley Bridge will reopen to buses after four years.

The council will allow limited traffic to return to the bridge during Jenners’ redevelopment, relocating airport buses from their current city centre stop on South St David Street by the former department store which is being converted into a hotel.

However the council said the move would only be “short term”.

The throughfare became largely pedestrianised in 2020 in response to Covid restrictions, with the Princes Street junction shutting completely to vehicles and access for taxis maintained only at the Market Street end.

An update shared by Transport Convener Scott Arthur confirmed that a new traffic order, which will be in place for up to two years, would create a ‘bus gate’, reopening the bridge for to the airport bus services provided by Lothian and McGill’s buses.

The council said: “Bus operators are aware of this change, and they are in the process of applying to the Traffic Commissioner for permission to amend their services for this period.

“Bus operators understand that the reopening of Waverley Bridge is a short-term measure, and that the expectation is that they will return to their current stops once the work at Jenners is complete.

“No other traffic will be permitted to access Princes Street from Waverley Bridge.

“The Placemaking, Events and Public Safety teams have been consulted about this change to ensure that we can safely facilitate pedestrians, cyclists and maintain the functionality of the area for the summer and winter festival periods.

“The new design will incorporate footway widenings at the north and south pedestrian accesses to Princes Street Gardens, bus access points and the flexibility to install hostile vehicle mitigation apparatus when required. The design for the new layout is still being progressed but once ready, will be circulated.”

The changes will come into effect from Monday, 24 June.

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Edinburgh City under-16 footballers will attempt to complete back-to-back Scottish Cup triumphs when they take on  Glasgow side Hampden Boys’ Club in the final at Excelsior Stadium Airdrie on Sunday 19 May.

Last year the team competing in a younger age-group and captured the trophy with a final victory over local rivals, Musselburgh Windsor.

With a couple of players added to their squad City took off on the glory trail once again and in reaching the final have seen off SEVEN opponents for the loss of just ONE goal.

That was in a 1-1 draw with Broxburn Athletic Colts before City prevailed 5-4 in a penalty shoot out.

Other teams overcome are Polbeth, North Berwick/Gullane, Milan FC (Coatbridge), Portlethen, Letham SC Reds and, in the recent semi-final when Tommy North was player-of-the-match, Luncarty.

The team are coached by Mark Quinn, Chris Jackson and Stephen Moffat.

Squad: Rory Campbell, Ross Lang, James Barrett, Jaden Riddell, Thomas Scott, Finn McLennan, Aiden Burgess, Lucas Quinn, Tommy North, Matthew Murray-Smith, Daniel Jackson, Isaac Mukaro, Kristofer Bjarnason, Dillon Thomson, Arran Matheson, Lewis Service, Jack Bathgate, Rhys Berry,  Riyard Elmrabty, Jack Richardson and Harry Moffat.

Murrayfield Wanderers men and Lismore women were trophy winners at the annual Penicuik rugby sevens sponsored by McKenzie skip hire.

Wanderers defeated the hosts 20-14 while Lismore followed up recent success in the Edinburgh Northern sevens by overcoming Peebles to lift the Centenary Cup.

Nathaniel Atkinson comes back into Hearts’ squad ahead of their trip to cinch Premiership leaders Celtic on Saturday (kick-off 15.00).

The Jambos have won two games against The Bhoys this term and Steven Naismith (pictured), Hearts’ head coach, said: “All season we have had confidence going into every game and we have no fear about what we are coming up against.

“Having the results against Celtic certainly helps and builds confidence. It will be slightly different (this time) because of where it (the game) sits in the season.

“The outcome of these games has a massive impact and I am sure Celtic being in the pole position for the title will want to come and get a result, but in a title race one slip can cost you.”

Naismith added that when you play against the Old Firm you have to be comfortable and understand the whole game and the dynamic of the crowd.

He added: “You have got to manage the game you have to understand that you are going to have to defend as they are a good team. If you get a goal and you start controlling the game you can turn the crowd.” 

Edinburgh Stellar Monarchs exited the Knockout Cup on a 92-87 aggregate despite winning the second-leg of the quarter-final 47-43 at Armadale.

The nine-point deficit from the first-leg in Dorset proved too much for the home side to make up but Monarchs did gave their fans hope with a bright opening.

Josh Pickering and Lasse Fredriksen combined for a 5-1 in the first race. Monarchs also won the next three three to move eight points ahead on the night at 16-8 and one behind on aggregate. 

Poole upped a gear to win the next six races and put the tie to bed with Tom Brennan top scoring with 11 points and skipper Ben Cook colecting ten.

Josh Pickering totalled 13 to top score for the home side with Justin Sedgmen next best on ten and captain Paco Castagna scored eight points but Kye Thomson could only manage four in the defeat.

Monarchs gave their fans something to cheer with a 5-1 in the final race thanks to a win from Pickering with Sedgmen second ahead of Cook and Brennan but the first-leg deficit proved too much to make up.  

MONARCHS: Pickering 13, Fredriksen 5, Thomson 4, Castagna 8, Sedgmen 10, James 4, Coles 3.

PIRATES: Lawson 7, Thomson 7, Brennan 11, Zach Cook 5, Ben Cook 10, Hagon 2, Perry 1.

RESULTS: Cab Direct Championship: Glasgow 47 (Chris Harris 15), Workington 43 (Craig Cook 10+1); Redcar 44 (Charles Wright 14), Scunthorpe 46 (Michael Palm Toft 10). Cab Direct KO Cup, quarter-final, second-leg: Edinburgh 47 (Josh Pickering 13), Poole 43 (Tom Brennan 11). Poole win 92-87 on aggregate

PICTURE: Action from Armadale by Nigel Duncan

SIGN HERE PLEASE: Josh Pickering signs a plaster cast in the pits for a delighted young fan. Picture Nigel Duncan

BUSY BOY: The same fan gets Lasse Fredriksen to add his signature. Picture Nigel Duncan

Officers are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 61-year-old man reported missing in Edinburgh.

Graham Forrester was last seen outside shops on Leith Walk around 8.45pm on Thursday, 2 May, 2024. 

He is described as around 5ft 8ins, of medium build with mid-length brown hair. When last seen he was wearing a blue jumper, black puffer jacket, jeans, and a black rucksack.

Graham is known to often visit the city cente and the Leith area. 

Inspector Mairi Creanor said: “Concerns are growing for Graham’s welfare and we are keen to trace him to make sure he is safe and well.

“If you have seen Graham or know where he is please get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting reference number 1414 of Thursday, 2 May, 2024.

The City of Edinburgh Council is exploring options to keep The Royal Mile’s tourist information open after VisitScotland announced the closure of this and other tourism offices.

The organisation plans to shut its 25 ‘iCentres’ across the country due to “significant” changes in the tourism landscape.

The Edinburgh branch, located at 249 High Street adjacent to the City Chambers, operates within a leased space provided by the council and shares facilities with its customer hub.

It’s winding-up is part of a phased two-year closure programme and no date has been set for VisitScotland to vacate the premises.

Councillor Alys Mumford said as the capital city it was “right that we have a physical place that people can come and find information”. 

VisitScotland chairman Lord Thurso said the demand for iCentres had “reduced while the demand for online information and booking has continued to grow”.

But Cllr Mumford said “not everyone still wants to book online,” adding: “Sometimes information isn’t available online.” 

Tabling a motion to explore options for ‘future use of the property as a visitor centre, including through providing a service ourselves’ – which was passed unanimously by the finance and resources committee this week – she said officials had already begun talks with VisitScotland chiefs “about what can be done with this space”. 

The Green councillor added: “This is an attempt to give a mandate to that, to say this is something the council supports. 

“That there might be other uses for this building still within the visitor economy that fit in well with the council’s aims.”

She said this could include a base for the city’s ‘Night Czar’ once the role is properly established, or for third sector charities and independent tour guides “who need somewhere to put bags”. 

Supporting the motion at the meeting on Tuesday, Cllr Alex Staniforth said: “A visitor centre isn’t just an area where tourists go for information such as where they can get a coffee or such like. 

“There’s actually a big humanitarian element to what a visitors’ centre does, because when tourists come here they come into an unfamiliar city and problems may arise. 

“Our visitor centre in Edinburgh is always busy, it’s always got people inside it, 

“I don’t understand the decision of VisitScotland to close it down, but I think in order to keep tourism to the city safe, to maintain a tourist sector that has an international reputation and in line with our aims to make the tourist sector greener a visitor centre is useful and we should therefore do everything we can to keep some kind of visitors centre going in that spot.”

Announcing the iCentre closures in March, VisitScotland said there will be no compulsory redundancies as a result of the shift to a “digital first” strategy.

Lord Thurso said research showed the organisation “have a greater and more impactful role to play in providing information before visitors travel”.

He added: “Prioritising a digital first model of information provision allows us to reach potential visitors at those early planning stages when we can shape their future travel decisions.”

UK Minister for Scotland John Lamont said the move was a “blow to our towns”.

by Donald Turvill, Local Democracy Reporter

Royal High Corstorphine cricket club have appointed Emma Turner to the role of ‘Junior Activator’.

Currently a pupil support assistant at Craigroyston Primary School, Emma previously worked as a rugby coach for The Royal High School and RugbyTots. Emma is captain of Corstorphine Cougars RFC and was recently selected to represent Glasgow Warriors in the Celtic Challenge.

Emma said: “I’m really looking forward to getting started with the cricket club and I can’t wait for the new challenge of working with the girls.”

Club secretary, Robert Drummond, added: “The majority of RHC players are under 25 and as such we lack players who have children aged 7-10. Traditionally parents are the organisational bedrock of junior cricket.

“Given that we have very few parents we feel we need the input of an Activator – someone who can relate well to children, meet and talk with parents, communicate with schools, etc. Emma is a schoolteacher, and together with her sporting prowess is ideally suited to this role.

“Her initial role has a focus on under-12 and under 15 girls cricket. At present we have four men’s teams but only one women’s team. One of our top ambitions is to add a second women’s team and the key to making that happen is to produce our own pathway that allows teenage girls to join RHC. We are particularly keen to develop our girls’ under-12 coaching and playing this coming year.”

If you would like to give cricket a try at RHC get in touch through the website https://royalhighcorstorphine.play-cricket.com/home

Megan Ormond who has had diabetes since she was a teenager has taken part in a medical study of a new “closed loop” diabetic pump technology since last year having been told that taking part would mean she could get this system more quickly.

Now Megan has been told that because of budget cuts she will no longer be able to access the pump after the study ends. The system which checks HBA1C – a measure of glucose levels – has identified that Megan’s results are the lowest they have been since she was diagnosed. The system has been made available in England since 1 April 2024 by NHS Lothian is unable to roll out the system as they had hoped.

Ms Boyack said:“Megan’s case shows the absolutely shocking state the SNP Government has allowed NHS Lothian to fall into.

“Life changing technology and treatment are being denied to patients due to a lack of funding.

“That is unacceptable anywhere in Scotland, never mind our nation’s capital.

“The Scottish Government must act to ensure Megan and other diabetics are able to access this ground-breaking treatment as they were promised.

“There is real opportunity to improve the quality of life for diabetes patients in Edinburgh, but that opportunity isn’t just being denied to my constituents its being snatched away.”

Megan said: “When I got told that there is potential no funding for me to remain on the system, I felt let down and upset.

“It’s like dangling a sweet in front of a child and then taking it away.

“I was informed a few months back that it was highly likely that I would remain on the system but that’s clearly not the case.

“Part of my job of being a nurse is advocating for the most vulnerable in society but who is advocating for us type 1 diabetics?”

Michelle Carr, Chief Officer, Acute Services, NHS Lothian said: “All Health Boards, including NHS Lothian, are under significantly increased financial pressure. This means that difficult decisions are being considered and must be made.

“We are currently reviewing the provision of our Diabetes Technology, specifically the hybrid closed loop system which combines an insulin pump with a linked continuous glucose monitor, as funding for starting new patients on this system in 2024 is very limited.

“We will communicate to all patients currently on a waiting list for Diabetes Technology as soon as this review is complete.

“Where patients are on a clinical study, such as ones for this type of equipment, they will be informed about what happens when the study ends. In this instance, information was provided to all patients as part of the clinical study documentation. This clearly stated that when the study came to an end, the patients would stop using the combined system (insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor) and would return to what they had previously been using.”

The art sales exhibition Inception Art Show with a catalogue sponsored by Anderson Strathern will take place from 3 to 12 May at Dalkeith Palace.

The art on display includes work by more than 30 sculptors, artists, photographers and painters with ten new artists also exhibiting for the first time. With a focus on contemporary art and sales, Inception Art Show promises an enriching experience for art enthusiasts. This year, 35 modern and contemporary artists will ‘take over’ the Palace, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with the artists and their creations over the course of 10 days.

Families will be welcomed on a special Family Day on 11 May sponsored by Savills when there will be family-friendly workshops and demonstrations and there will be other events included in the programme with an online charity auction of the art raising funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

Walter Dalkeith who helps curate the show with Taisir Gibreel and Charlotte Rostek said: “Working alongside the artists, we hope to create an immersive cultural experience that showcases the art at its best and engages directly with visitors.

“We are proud to create this platform for visitors to purchase artwork and support the incredible creativity and talent on show”.

Charlotte Rostek who directs development at the palace said: “I am delighted to see Inception return to Dalkeith Palace again this year. It has really become our flagship show signalling a whole new chapter in the story of this remarkable building and one we are excited to see unfold over the coming years.”

Edinburgh-based Judy Clark Fashion Designer and her sister Christine Clark the artist have some new work on display. Christine has returned to fashion illustration along with her beautiful fashion pieces and Christine has just designed the album cover for Kelly Jones of Stereophonics, an excerpt of which forms part of the display.

Entrance tickets to the Inception Art Show cost £3 and are now on sale. The exhibition is open daily from Friday 3 May to Sunday 12 May, from 10.00am to 4.00pm. There will also be daily, pre-bookable guided tours of the Palace.

www.dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk/event/inception-art-show/

Jupiter Artland will have an extraordinary installation of new sculptural works by Glasgow-based artist Laura Aldridge this year, “bringing together the cosmic with the everyday, building a world indoors and outdoors filled with fictions, songs, luscious colour and sensual texture”.

The exhibition will be open from 11 May to 29 September, and spans indoors and outdoors at Jupiter Artland.

This year the sculpture park and Café Party at Jupiter Artland will be open seven days a week until 29 September allowing visitors every opportunity to see the works on display and enjoy a coffee or a meal during the visit.

LAWNMOWER creates a space “where materiality might absorb or encourage certain feelings”. Aldridge’s varied artistic activities are imbued with a sense of freedom and play, leaving space for audiences’ own interpretations and feelings.

Also opening at the same time this Spring are Andrew Sim’s new paintings that will transform The Ballroom space at Jupiter into a dreamlike forest, with plants and trees growing beneath rainbows and star-studded skies. Sim lives and works in New York drawing on everyday experiences representing their experience of Queerness. This exhibition of brand new work continues Sim’s exploration of trees, with works made on-site at Jupiter and at the artist’s London studio. It will be the artist’s biggest exhibition to date in Scotland.

Glasgow-born artist Andrew Sim draws upon their everyday experience, conscious and unconscious, creating forms and characters that represent their experience of Queerness. Sim depicts archetypes and cultural images in the foreground of their paintings, carefully considering the pivotal time to use certain imagery. These autobiographical moments and symbols document the duality and evolution of Queer lives. Winged horses, flowers, rainbows and werewolves have all featured in this painted mythology.

Laura Aldridge’s work combines luscious colour and sensual texture with handmade and collaged qualities. Richly glazed ceramics, elements sculpted in modroc and fishing floats are illuminated among soft folds of fabric. Aldridge creates a “Push and pull between dualities, such as
synthetic versus natural and object versus subject, whereby the tension lies in the viewer’s very own experience.” Working across textile, ceramic, glass and found objects, Aldridge does not spoon feed, she has a clarity about how much should be laid bare and visitors should be prepared to embark on a journey through their own experiences and senses. LAWNMOWER will also premiere a series of new
video works that Aldridge has made in collaboration with artists and musicians from her creative community.

Edinburgh Art Festival 2024

JUPITER RISING the Scottish artist-driven art and music festival returns to Jupiter Artland this summer and there will be a collaborative event with Edinburgh Art Festival (EAF) on 17 August 2024.

The festival is curated by Jupiter and EAF,
to create an innovative programme of live-music and sound. Expect unique site-responsive
performance, artist moving-image and film programmes, talks and discussions, artist-led workshops
and all-ages programmes, plus the return of the infamous late night stage showcasing progressive
club nights with the best of Scottish and international DJs.

Great British Menu The Dinner

One of the best kept secrets is the outdoor dining evenings at Café Party. Every Friday from 24 May. £80 per person. More details here.

The founder of charity Invisible Cities, Zakia Moulaoui, joined the Duke of Sussex as he spoke to the online Travalyst Convening.

Prince Harry urged the industry to put sustainability at the heart of its tourism bookings and gave special mention to the Edinburgh-based charity.

Travalyst is a not-for-profit organisation founded by Prince Harry. The gathering brought together some of the biggest brands in travel and technology, as well as world-renowned experts to discuss sustainable and regenerative tourism. 

A key part of this year’s event was the roundtable discussion focused on communities, speaking to a range of people including Zakia who talked about the impact that conscious travellers have on communities.

She said: “We are increasingly seeing people making even more conscious decisions when they are travelling and visiting new places.  People want to see the money they spend directly benefit communities.”

Prince Harry said: “Travel and tourism relies on destinations, held together by communities, without which we have nowhere to travel to. Communities are the beating heart of travel, and we must do better by the people who are the custodians of the places we visit. We’ve heard from some fantastic organisations like Invisible Cities who train people affected by homelessness to be tour guides in their own city.”

Travalyst has focussed on accommodation and aviation but is working to bring a clear message to help people make more informed choices.

Invisible Cities train people who have experienced homelessness to be tour guides of their own cities.  The charity currently runs tours in six cities, expanding to more this year and beyond. All of the guides are paid the living wage and employed by the charity.  Each of them carefully researches, plans and practices their tour, based on their own interests, observations and life stories, with our support. Invisible Cities also help many more people with valuable employability skills such as confidence, public speaking and storytelling. They also work closely with many other community outreach support services who work with people who are struggling with homelessness.

The new bowling season is up and running at Edinburgh and Lothians’ clubs among them Maitland BC, at Davidson’s Mains.

Club president Mark Patrizio and vice president Jackie Johnston played the opening shots and this was followed by a match held over six rinks in glorious weather.

Pictured are members lined up on the petanque area.

Swinney for First Minister

The SNP’s John Swinney declared his intention to run in any leadership contest on Thursday morning, and having said during his speech that he would bring Kate Forbes into any cabinet, Ms Forbes announced later in the day that she would not stand. This allows for a coronation of the former Deputy First Minister who was leader of the SNP some two decades ago, but for whom this time the top job is in reach.

Unless a late candidate throws their hat into the ring by Monday at noon, it is virtually certain that Swinney will be announced as leader of the SNP on Monday and then the next – the eighth – First Minister.

Who were the others? Humza Yousaf, Nicola Sturgeon, Alex Salmond, Jack McConnell, Henry McLeish and Donald Dewar and not forgetting Jim Wallace who became First Minister on the death of Donald Dewar for just 16 days and on the resignation of Henry McLeish for just 19 days.

Read more here and here

At Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

On Saturday at ESW everyone is invited to a workshop, book in for a tour or explore the artists’ studios.

It is also a family day – no need to book just turn up between 1 and 3pm.

MILK, the on-site cafe will be open all day and have lots of lunch options, cakes and a special pancakes offer for kids this Saturday.

Much more information here.

Edinburgh World Heritage event

THURSDAY 16 MAY 2024
at: Riddle’s Court
322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG

Most medieval cities and towns had several churches, of different sizes, serving the population.  Edinburgh was no exception, and while several have vanished, more remains than is realised.  This talk will describe what was and what remains as well as look at some later developments.  It will cover well-known survivors, such as St Giles as well as those much less well known, like Trinity College and the Magdalen Chapel.

Prof Adam Cumming has worked as a research scientist for over 40 years in the defence field. He was made an Honorary Professor in the University of Edinburgh School of Chemistry.

Book here.

Our May issue is out now

Click on the image below if you would like to sign up for an annual subscription to have the paper delivered to you each month.

Meadows to George Street plans

The next public drop in when you can have a look at the plans for the route from Meadows to George Street is on 9 May. See more below.

Trojan Swimming Club has become first club in West Lothian to achieve the Aquamark Standard.

One of the county’s longest running swimming clubs, Whitburn based Trojan ASC have recently being awarded Scottish Swimming’s Aquamark Level 1 accreditation.

Club Secretary, Colin Matthews, said: “The accreditation is awarded by the sport’s governing body, Scottish Swimming, to ensure clubs are strong, sustainable, and inclusive to help grow the sport. The main aims of the Aquamark accreditation are to provide a nationally recognised standard that will enable clubs to: 

·        *Be inclusive, adhere to equality standards and engage with the local community.
·        *Develop safe, effective, well governed, welcoming, and friendly environments, based on good practice.
·        *Improve the club experience for all members by having an agreed vision and culture.
·        *Strive to be a long-term sustainable club focused on developing pathways for all.

Colin added:”This is a great achievement for our club and demonstrates to both existing and future members that we are a sustainable, well governed club operating to the highest of standards.”

Interested in learning more about the club or join via email : trojanasc@outlook.com

It’s been a topsy-turvy week for three of our national leaders. Humza stepped down, John stepped up and Kate stepped aside. The result is a new and much- chastened government.

Poor Humza Yousaf (39) had only been First Minister for a year, and, seeking to keep everyone happy, he u-turned so many times he ended up going round in circles. It’s sad, because he is a lovely, calm, quietly-spoken man, Scotland’s first Asian leader. He took over the SNP/Green government after the sudden, and quite unnecessary, resignation of Nicola Sturgeon.

He made three big mistakes, in my view. One was to impose a council tax freeze on Scotland’s 32 local councils, depriving them of much-needed funds and their democratic dignity. The second was to abandon Scotland’s 2030 climate change targets. And the third was to double down on gender and hate crime laws. The first two annoyed the Greens. The third annoyed a large part of his own party. So he opened up an ill-tempered rift that led to the end of the coalition government last week. On Monday Mr Yousaf was forced to announce his resignation.

So who could put the delicate Humpty Dumpty government back together again ? All the king’s men seemed to favour John Swinney (60), the wise man of the party. He’s been in the SNP since he was 15 and in government for 16 years, serving in both Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon’s cabinet. He was even leader of the party from 2000 to 2004, which now looks like a previous existence.

To pull the left and right of the party together, however, he needed the backing of Kate Forbes (34), a clever and articulate Highland accountant and former finance secretary, who, last year ran Humza Yousaf a close second in the leadership race. But there’s unlikely to be a race this year. Just hours after John Swinney declared his intention to stand for election again, and called on Kate to join him in a government of all the talents, she agreed not to stand herself but to support Mr Swinney.

Both had hesitated for three days, saying they were balancing family commitments against political duties. John Swinney left the government last year, heading for retirement. Kate Forbes has a young child. Whether Ms Forbes could have beaten “honest John” we shall never know.

The contest would, though, would have exposed the divisions that have been growing in the party for the last few years. There are different views on the road to independence, climate change, the future of oil and gas, marine protection zones, progressive taxation, local authority finance, and a range of “social” issues, such as gender identity, puberty blockers and hate crime.

There’s also the strange controversy over Kate Forbes’ religion – as if she is the only MSP to belong to a church. Her church, the Free Church of Scotland, does not believe in sex before marriage or gay marriage, or trans-gender rights. But then neither does the Roman Catholic Church or the Muslim religion and yet many MSPs are members of these churches, including Mr Yousaf himself who was forcing the social agenda through.

As for the Greens, they have branded Kate Forbes as anti-gay, and part of a “right wing faction” of the SNP who they vehemently oppose. Now that they are free of the coalition, their seven MSPs have the balance of power in The Scottish Parliament. They can block any policy they don’t agree with, like the retreat from climate change measures, or more money for road-building and they can insist on environmental measures being included in the budget before they will vote for it.

The wonder is that the SNP has stayed afloat for so long. They are, of course buoyed up by the dream of independence, which still commands support from half the population. But, like any other single issue party (including the Greens), it is hard to keep a tidy cupboard on other issues.

With the new Swinney/Forbes coalition, it looks like we are in for a more cautious Scottish government, waiting for the tide to turn in its favour and dreading the sound of Labour’s marching bands.

Grange are unbeaten against Watsonians this season but the newly-crowned Premiership champions are leaving nothing to chance ahead of their Scottish Cup Final clash at Glasgow’s National Hockey Centre on Saturday (16.00).

Last weekend’s disappointment in losing to Western Wildcats in the play-off final was a major blow and killed hopes of a domestic treble.

Two unnamed players are injured and will not play in Saturday’s showpiece but Grange have depth in their squad and remain confident as they accounted for Watsonians 3-0 in last weekend’s play-off semi-final.

Previous scorelines between the clubs have been 1-0 and 3-2 but Martin Shepherdson, Grange’s team manager, said: “Although we have won all three games we have played against Watsonians this season, all of them have been tight.

“We know they can be difficult to break down but we go into the game feeling confident that if we play to our best we will beat them.”

Missing two players through injury, he admitted, was a blow but he added: “We pride ourselves on the depth of our squad so we don’t let that affect us.”

Watsonians go in against Western Wildcats in the women’s Cup Final on Sunday (16.00) and they beat the Auchenhowie club 3-0 in their play-off semi-final last weekend.

Coach Keith Smith and his squad eye a glory treble for the second straight season having already annexed the Premiership and the play-off title and they are outstanding favourites.

The Edinburgh club have gone through the domestic season unbeaten so far but Smith said: “Games against Wildcats are always tough and we need to impose ourselves on the game and be controlled about how we achieve that.

Other men’s games being played on Saturday feature The University of Edinburgh 3s playing capital rivals Grange 3s in the men’s Reserve Cup Final (10.00) and student’s second team face Hillhead 2s in the District Cup Final (12.00).

The Scottish Plate Final features The University of Edinburgh against Dundee Wanderers (14.00) and the District Plate Final is between Erskine Stewart’s Melville 2s and Grove Menzieshill 2s (13.00). The men’s Reserve Plate Final is between Watsonians 4s and Watsonians 5s (11.00).

On Sunday it is the women who have pride of place also at Glasgow’s National Hockey Centre. The University of Edinburgh play The University of Edinburgh 2s in the Scottish Plate Final (14.000 and in the District Cup Final, Shetland play The University of Edinburgh 4s (12.00).

Glasgow University 4s are in action in the District Plate Final against Merlin Gordonians 2s (10.00).

PICTURE: Grange v The University of Edinburgh earlier this season. Picture by Nigel Duncan

PICTURE: Watsonians v Western Wildcats at George Watson’s College earlier this season. Picture by Nigel Duncan

Kevin White grew up in South Queensferry watching the RNLI crew setting out to save lives at sea.

He is now combining his admiration for the charity with his work role as Compliance Officer at Scotmid.

He will be raising funds for the organisation which is Scotmid’s charity partner for 2024 by running a 10-race challenge. He has already completed the Supernova Kelpies in March and is preparing for the Scottish Half Marathon in August.

Scotmid’s goal is to raise enough funds to buy an Atlantic 85 lifeboat capable of carrying four crew members and a haul of essential medical and rescue equipment.

Kevin said: “I am incredibly proud to be supporting such an important charity for communities around the UK. My father and grandfather were keen runners, but I only took up running during lockdown, so this challenge is a great opportunity to follow in their footsteps. I am loving the challenge but not sure if my legs will agree by the end of the year.”

To support Kevin’s 10 race challenge, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/scotmidkevinwhite2024

Kirsty Connell, Membership & Community Manager (East) at Scotmid, said: “We are immensely proud of Kevin and his achievements in this challenge so far. Through our partnership with the RNLI, we hope to raise enough funds to purchase a new Atlantic 85 Lifeboat. It’s great to see our colleagues contributing through individual and team challenges. Good luck Kevin!”

Stewart’s Melville Cricket Club have welcomed Kari Carswell on board as a women’s team coach.

Kari previously had a role as Head of Woman’s Cricket at Middlesex and MCC, and has now taken up her new role at Inverleith.

Kari will work alongside Hannah Short to continue the growth and success of the woman’s and girls’ section.

Someone who is becoming part of the furniture at Stewart’s Melville is Shaylen Pillay who is returning for a sixth season as overseas professional.

Stewart’s Melville are due to open their Eastern Premiership campaign on Saturday 4 May at home to Falkland.

Edinburgh’s Deepti Vijayakumar, 15, completed a clean sweep of titles at the Scottish under-17 badminton championships in Perth.

In the singles final Deepti defeated Qing Yang Xiao then teamed up with her to win the girls doubles, beating Anishita Jaiswal and Ingrid Wang in the final.

The mixed doubles saw Deepti partner Lewis Smith to victory over Lingyun Xiao and Qing Yang Xiao.

In the boys’ events Alfie Martin was defeated 13-21 and 11-21 in the singles final against Lingyun Xiao. The boys’ doubles was won by Lewis Smith and Lingyun Xiao at the expense of Ciaron Hope and Alfie Sweeney.

The under-13 singles saw Yingfan Wang beat James Huang while in the girls’ event Emily Jobson came out on top against Akshara Chavan. In the the under-13 mixed doubles final Divyam Goyal and Akshir Chavan defeated Yingfan Wang and Emily Jobson.

The boys’ doubles was a triumph for Yinming Oscar Feng and Yingfan Wang against Divyam Goyal and James Huang while Akshara Chavan and Emily Jobson won the girls doubles against Josie Columbine and Sophie Mackay.

The Brunton is programming arts and entertainment events into alternative venues in East Lothian and The Collie’s Shed is part of the theatre programme.

Based in a local Men’s Shed in East Lothian, the work follows four retired miners as they discover how a review into the policing of the mining strikes in the 80’s by the Scottish Government suddenly affects them, their friendships and their relationships.

The audience hears how one unforgettable and violent day of striking at Bilston Glen Colliery leaves them wrestling with what they think is right, who they are now, who they once were and most importantly, where they stand on the picket line.

A Brunton spokesman said: “With dramatization of real stories and experiences, work brings a powerful and emotional call to arms over injustices and hardships that are arguably still felt to this day.”

The work is written by Lothians-based writer and theatre maker Shelley Middler. Since graduating from the University For The Creative Arts, Shelley has written for Scottish Youth Theatre, Traverse Theatre and Strange Town Youth Theatre as part of their Young Writers Groups.

The Collie’s Shed is touring, marking the 40th Anniversary of the 1984 Mining Strikes. 

EAST LOTHIAN TOUR DATES: Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh, 29 May 7.30pm, Fraser Centre, Tranent, 30 May 7.30pm, Community Centre, Prestonpans, 31 May 7.30pm, Corn Exchange, Haddington, 1 Jun 7.30pm

PICTURE: scene from the show courtesy of The Brunton