Members of the all-conquering Murrayfield Racers ice hockey team who dominated the Northern League during its 16-year existence from 1966-’82 got together at the capital rink to plan a League re-union at the same venue on Friday, 22 March.

They are, left to right: Willie Kerr, Denis Clair, Scott Neil, Derek Reilly and Dean Edmiston some of whom also shared in eight Racers triumphs in the prestigious Icy Smith Cup.

As well as former Racers goaltender Willie Clark, now 93-years-old and skipper Gordon Inglis, former GB rep Terry Matthews is expected to attend leading a group from Whitley Bay. Others are expected to travel from the now defunct Durham team and Ayr as well as East coast sides Fife Flyers and Dundee Rockets.

Derek Reilly, now 76, spent his entire career with Murrayfield playing 882 games and was inducted into the British Ice Hockey Hall of Fame in 1987. He played for team GB at three world championships.

Anther likely attendee will be Freddie Wood who, in the Racers first recorded match against Ayr Bruins, scored seven goals in an 8-1 victory!

Organiser Denis Clair joked: “The re-union will include one opposition player I got to know when we had a fight on the ice all those years ago. We’ve been friends ever since and I look forward to seeing him!”

The Northern League was won in its first three years by Paisley Mohawks but subsequently Racers won seven times with a couple of successes each for Whitley Bay, Fife and Dundee.

Western Wildcats were crowned Scottish indoor champions for the third year in a row and the fourth year in five when they beat Inverleith 5-2 at Dundee in the Grand Final.

The Glasgow side were 2-1 down when the Capital combine scored from a penalty corner with seconds left of the first quarter but they levelled just after the restart and the sides were locked at 2-2 after an even first-half.

The Auchenhowie combine upped their game in the second and it was all over, according to captain, Rob Harwood, after they extended their lead to 3-2 from a penalty corner deep in the third quarter, and they extended that to 4-2 with eight minutes remaining.

Fraser Moran top scored with a treble while Andrew McConnell and Dundonian Jamie Golden, who was recruited by Western for the indoor season, both netted singles.

Harwood added: “It was fairly even in the first half but we took the score to 3-2 and then 4-2 with eight minutes left and that was that.”

Western went through the whole tournament unbeaten and Harwood said: “Finals are about getting the result and the final performance was not what we wanted. We knew it was going to be tight as we drew 4-4 with them last weekend. It was about keeping them at bay.”

He added: “This is the first major trophy available to win in the season and we wanted to make a successful defence. That’s three in a row now and four in the last five and this was undoubtedly one of our targets this season.

“Now we have one trophy in the cabinet so we can concentrate on winning the Scottish Cup and also the championship.” 

There was better news for the Capital in the women’s Grand Final as Watsonians edged a tense tussle against Clydesdale after a shootout.

The sides were level at 2-2 after normal time, the Edinburgh club leading 1-0 at the break, after scoring with two minutes left of the half, but Clydesdale equalised with four minutes left of the third quarter.

Watsonians went 2-1 ahead but the West of Scotland side levelled with one minute left to take the game into the shootout.

Uddingston men secured promotion to Scotland’s top indoor league with a narrow, 3-2 win over Dunfermline Carnegie in the play-off final at Dundee after missing out on automatic promotion by a point.

And the ambitious Lanarkshire club made it two promotions in one day as the women beat Inverleith 5-1 to move into their top flight for the first time having missed out on automatic promotion by two goals.

Gareth Ikin, the Lanarkshire club’s director of hockey, said that it was tremendous that the men and women took their form during the season into the play-offs and it is exciting that both are now in the top division.

Ben Young fired Uddingston ahead and Bein Wilson made it 2-0 before Dunfermline staged a comeback to level at 2-2 but captain Stephen Mackenzie netted with a minute to go to secure the promotion. They were relegated last year so have bounced back at the first attempt.

Mackenzie said: “It was a tough league with a lot of good teams in it but the boys put a lot of good work in each week and it feels great to get back into league one.

“First half was great but the second half was a bit nervy and we did not make it easy for ourselves but it was a good way to win it now we’re looking forward to giving it a go with the top teams.”

And Olivia Mullen and Kirsty Wratten both netted doubles as the club’s women’s team comfortably beat Inverleith with Lucy Hogarth netting a single.

They were 2-0 up but the Edinburgh side earned a penalty stroke following a corner and it was 2-1 at the break but two goals in the third quarter and a single in the fourth ended the contest.

What safety work has been done on the most dangerous junction in Edinburgh for cyclists over the last six months? None, it turns out. 

Despite the deaths of Stuart Elliot in 2019 and Heather Stronach in 2020 on their bikes at the Portobello High Street junction with Sir Harry Lauder Road, we are still no further forward than the emergency measures put in in 2022 that ban HGV drivers turning left off Portobello High Street. 

Spokes believed, following the Transport and Environment Committee decisions, that work would commence last summer. We now know that there were ‘resource pressures’ and the work didn’t start. 

The original delivery timetable of summer 2024 now looks to be more like spring 2026. This will be a £1 million pound project that removes some traffic lanes and introduces a single crossing for pedestrians and cyclists between Portobello High Street and Inchview Terrace.

Many who live in Portobello and beyond are shocked and disappointed by the lack of progress. Spokes worked in good faith with the Council and the local community on proposals to redesign the junction in a way that will make it safe, easy, and comfortable for people walking, wheeling, and cycling. This involved detailed work on the current temporary scheme and its diversion route for HGVs through Northfield. 

While we welcome the existing emergency measures, they are not ideal, and were only ever supposed to be temporary. The junction remains hostile to people walking, wheeling, and cycling. Fishwives’ Causeway cannot be considered a viable alternative route for all as it only suits some routes and is not considered safe by many women in the dark.

It’s not just Portobello. We are also concerned about the other dangerous junctions in the city, including the West End of Princes Street where Zhi Min Soh was killed on her bike in 2017.

Nobody should be killed going out on their bikes in Edinburgh. It’s time for cycling safety to be taken seriously. This means prioritising resources to get well designed, future proofed schemes on the ground, and keeping communities informed about their progress.

Adam Cross, chairman of Cramond Angling Association, welcomed the new season on The Almond with the first cast and said: “It is a good river and we hope we have another good season.”

The club had over 100 members last season and also sold a number of day tickets. Cross is encouraged and he was delighted to welcome old and potential members to the opening BBQ at Cramond.

Permits for this season are only available via the Fishing Around the Forth website with an adult ticket costing £40, senior citizens (65 and above) £30, full-time student £15 and child (under-16) £5.

Day tickets are on sale at Barnton Post Office and The Edinburgh Angling Centre for £10 (adult), £5 (senior citizen and full-time student) and £2 for a child under 16.

The club have around eight miles of water from the foreshore at Cramond to near Kirkliston and Cross said that buying a ticket means you can fish for salmon, sea trout and brown trout.

He added: “There is plenty of wildlife in the water and further upstream brown trout were caught last year. I love it and most of the river is accessible by bus from anywhere, two buses if you are out Dalkeith or Gorebridge area.

“Parking areas are in a number of locations and you can walk the whole stretch of the river to the back of the airport. You can park at Kirkliston and walk upstream from there.

“There are a lot of good beats. A lot of good beats are in areas where it is difficult to get into, you can wade, and some of the best beats are where some of the big fish hide.”

Cross urged anglers to have the correct safety equipment like a life jacket and wading stick. He said: “The river bed can be quite rocky and you have to watch where you are stepping.”

He was asked for the best patterns to use and said: “To be fair I come down with a box and you can try a fly which everybody has been using and it does not work so get used to tying knots as you will be changing flies regularly.

“Fishing here is well worth the money. If you were going to a stillwater it could cost you over £30 for a day and you come here and you get a season ticket for just a little bit less. To me, it is a no-brainer.

“People in the river are all good guys, you can get a good conversation, people will help you out and, if you are a new member, a member of the committee will come with you for a walk and explain things, particularly areas which are unsafe to fish.” 

PICTURE: Adam Cross making the first cast of the season at Cramond. Picture by Nigel Duncan

PICTURE: Adam Cross making the first cast on The Almond to open the season. Picture Nigel Duncan

PICTURE: Members and potential members chat at the opening BBQ. Picture by Nigel Duncan

Nomadic Royal Amateur Boxing Club have finally found a home and will be putting down roots at Holyrood Business Park.

Coach and former Army champion Junior Burton has been at the heart of fund raising including running three ultra marathons in three days to raise around £2500 for funds.

And that has helped provide a permanent base for around 30 boxers who train on three evenings each week with fitness classes completing the midweek schedule. Until now they have been training at various rented venues.

Among those who will benefit will be unbeaten junior champion Lachlan Ross while Burton, who is assisted by Michael Wood, says “Zac Dillon, from Gilmerton, is another young boxer to keep an eye on.”

The club staged a successful show at Oriam last year and plans are afoot to organise a follow up event, possibly nearer the Holyrood Business Centre headquarters which are due to operational soon.

Burton insists the premises will be expertly kitted out.

“We have spent a small fortune on kit including £3,000 on (punch) bags alone” he says.

Hibernian FC hosted St Mirren at Easter Road on Saturday but added to their losing streak and are now without a win in six league games.

In his match report which you can read in full here Callum Napier wrote: “St Mirren thumped Hibernian 3-0 in Leith after a dismal first half performance from the home side.

“Hibs conceded three goals in the opening 45 minutes and the Easter Road faithful failed to hide their feelings, booing the side throughout.”

A dismal result in Leith, even with their recent signings – but Ian Jacobs as always produced colourful photos.

Edinburgh’s Connor Mollison has dipped his toe into ice water swimming and emerged with two gold medals from British Championships.

The 31-year-old photographer, who has been training with the Warrender Baths Masters group and outdoors at Foxlake Adventure Centre, East Lothian, travelled to Cheltenham Lido and turned up trumps in both the 50m backstroke and freestyle events.

Also successful was Edinburgh-born swimmer Dan Wallace, the former Olympic silver medallist and world champion who took the 50m butterfly and 100m freestyle events.

With Dan pipping Connor in the 50m butterfly event it made for an interesting car journey home for the two friends who, last year, were part of a quartet who raised over $200,000 for Ukranian Relief and Cancer Support Charities with a sponsored English Channel swim.

Now, though, the focus for Connor is on ice water swimming.

The one-time Scottish junior squad representative said: “Ice swimming is a fairly new sport with ambitions to one day achieve Winter Olympic status.

“I had been out of competitive swimming for about 10 years when I decided to give it a go as a way back into competing and things worked out well in Cheltenham.

“Rules state that water temperature has to be under five degrees and it was slightly above that but it was still cold and organisers pressed on with the competition.

 “Hopefully I’m swim-fit enough to have taken a step towards representing GB having missed out on becoming a Scottish senior internationalist back in the day when it was my goal to compete in a Commonwealth Games.”

With a new challenge ahead of him Connor added: “Part of the exercise is learning how to handle the cold as well as race – it’s a balance – and compared with sitting in cold water muscles can seize up more quickly when racing – something I’ve had to get used to.”

As well as winning the 50m butterfly Dan Wallace finished runner-up in both the 250 and 500m freestyle events.

New phase of Industry leading holiday homes take centre stage at Camelot Holiday Park.

Camelot Holiday Park at Longtown in Cumbria has released a new phase of luxury holiday homes to buy – at last year’s prices.

Prices are from £55,000 for the three bedroom Willerby Manor, a spacious and contemporary static caravan holiday home with a fully fitted luxury kitchen with integrated appliances. All of the holiday homes are complete with decked areas and driveways. Airy and roomy, they offer open plan layouts with modern touchesl. Master bedrooms are complete with en-suites, and the holiday homes have an abundance of storage space.

Along with the Willerby Manor, buyers can choose from three models from leading manufacturer, ABI, a spacious Beverly at £59,000, a holiday home complete with a stunning open plan living area, the St David at £62,000, which features statement kitchen lighting and a kitchen sink with a view.

The ABI Ambleside is priced at £90,000. Finished with a luxury décor, the ABI Ambleside features a well-designed interior, fresh colour scheme, and a whole host of practical necessities, including an integrated living room fire. It is one of the most impressive properties in ABI’s current range. All of the homes are fully furnished and decorated ready just to move in.

Family run Camelot Holiday Park is secure, gated and open for 12 months of the year. Buying a staycation holiday home at Camelot Holiday Park offers easy access to the Scottish Borders and North Lake District for day trips and excursions.

Owner William Stewart said: “These are beautiful holiday homes with top class specifications, ready to enjoy straight away, and indeed all year round too, as we are open a full twelve months at the park.

“We are a well established, family run holiday park where you can buy with confidence. We are delighted to be releasing more holiday homes in 2024, as we look forward to a new season here on our picturesque park in which we take great pride.

“Come and see us now and enjoy a tour of the properties. Buy at 2023 prices before our prices are increased in the spring. They all enjoy an ideal setting on the park with some of the best views.”

Call the park on 01228 791248 to arrange a guided tour.

www.camelotholidaypark.co.uk

Strathmore Golf Centre, at Alyth is back on the market at offers over £1.5 million.

Set in stunning parkland, the Golf Centre comprises two golf courses, the Par 72, multi award winning 18-hole Rannaleroch Golf Course, together with the Par 27, 9-hole Leitfie Links Course. The club extends over approximately 150 acres with practice facilities, including a 10-bay floodlit driving range.

The centrally located clubhouse includes a bar and restaurant with covers for 120 guests, with the conservatory offering views out over a newly installed large patio area to the 18th Green and across the valley below.

The restaurant lies at the very heart of the club, is well established and is popular with both members and customers from all over the area.

The clubhouse also has male and female changing and shower facilities, a pro shop, and a small office.

Remaining fully operational and pro-active whilst on the market, the Golf Centre has a busy year ahead scheduled. In addition to several high-profile amateur events which it hosts, the Centre continues to be a popular venue for the hosting of PGA Scotland professional golfing events. This has helped to enhance its reputation and project Strathmore as a prime venue to visit.

David Norman, Director of Operations said: “We have another very busy year in prospect here at Strathmore Golf Centre.

“Any prospective buyer coming to view the Club – and we’re pretty sure they’ll be a lover of the game – will see everything fully operational and in full swing – pardon the pun’. We have been operating this business for 17 years. We are well established and enjoy an enviable reputation, consistently achieving a level of excellence that keeps members, visitors, PGA professionals, and our entire customer base, very happy.
“We are very fortunate to be situated in prime Perthshire countryside, close to many amenities and local visitor attractions. Our spectacular setting is enjoyed by many visitors from all over the UK and beyond, even if they don’t play golf, which of course, many of them do. Perthshire offers many activities for visitors to enjoy and there is a high demand for accommodation in our area for both golfers and general visitors alike.”

David was also keen to point out that a new owner could consider the development of holiday lodges and leisure facilities on the site, with the centre in the past having obtained planning permission for a hotel, self-catering holiday lodge park, and leisure facilities.

He said: “Current indications are that permission for this business diversification would be granted again.

“We feel that this scope for further income and development is certainly worth pointing out to any interested buyers who may, or may not, already own golf related businesses, or indeed leisure businesses.
“We’re also delighted to announce that we’ve been shortlisted as a finalist for the Best Golf Course Under £100 category at the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards in March, awards in which we have always performed very well.
“Seventeen years ago we were extremely lucky – the chance to own a place like this doesn’t come every day. Now it’s time to retire and hand Strathmore over for its next phase of development.”
To find out more about Strathmore Golf Centre, and to enjoy a full tour of the Club & its facilities, please contact Robert Smithson at Agents for the sale, Colliers, on +44 113 200 1876, email Robert.Smithson@Colliers.com

Lawrence Shankland netted twice in eight sensational, second-half minutes as Hearts came from behind to edge Dundee and extend their unbeaten run in the cinch Premiership to eight games.

The 28-year-old Scotland striker scored from the penalty spot to level at 2-2 with 11 minutes of regular time remaining and then latched onto a Kenneth Vargas pass with three minutes left to claim the game-winner.

The jubilant Jambos now move 12 points clear in third spot in the 12-strong table after results elsewhere and Dundee must wonder what they have to do to beat the Tynecastle team.

They led 2-0 at rain-soaked Tynecastle recently only to go down 3-2 and they suffered again by the same scoreline at Dens Park.

Steven Naismith, Hearts’ head coach, said: “We started well and had a lot of control but the goals we conceded were poor. Second-half we showed more urgency and put more pressure on.”

His opposite number, Tony Docherty, was angry at the final whistle and protested to referee Graham Grainger about the penalty award which allowed Hearts to level but, once again, super Shankland proved the difference.

His game-winner showed his footwork and calmness after picking up the ball from Vargas before sending the ball into the bottom corner out of the reach of Dundee stopper Trevor Carson to claim the three points.

The double moves Shankland on to 21 goals for the season, but it would be wrong not to mention the contribution of Alan Forrest who opened Hearts’ account after 55 minutes.

Earlier, Jordan McGhee fired Dundee in front after 26 minutes and Lyall Cameron finished off a fine move involving several players to score after 59 minutes and edge Dundee into a 2-1 lead.

They looked to be on course for a confidence-boosting win before Shankland intervened to help Hearts claim their fourth straight win, the first time they have achieved that in away games since 2011.

The Capital combine now have 45 points from 24 starts while fourth-placed Kilmarnock have 33 points from the same number of starts with St Mirren fifth on 32 points also from 24 games.

Hearts are next on duty at St Johnstone on Wednesday (19.45) before their Scottish Cup fifth round clash with Airdrie on Synday, February 11 (17.00) in the West of Scotland, but they must beware of Caig Levein’s men who earned a 1-0 win at Ross County through a Kimpioka goal after 34 minutes and are now in ninth position, only two points out of sixth spot.  

St Mirren thumped Hibernian 3-0 in Leith after a dismal first half performance from the home side.

Hibs conceded three goals in the opening 45 minutes and the Easter Road faithful failed to hide their feelings, booing the side throughout.

It was a nightmare start for the Hibees as former player Alex Gogic thundered a header past David Marshall within ten minutes, getting on the end of a beautiful cross from Caolan Boyd-Munce.

Hibs’ performance didnt improve, they continued to struggle creating chances as they failed to muster a single shot in the first half.

St Mirren then double their lead on the 34th minute; Greg Kiltie converted from the penalty spot after Willie Columm gave a controversial handball against Hibs’ deadline day signing Nectarios Triantis.

The half ended the same way it began, with Hibs conceding a header, this time it was Caolan Boyd-Munce scoring at the back post from a corner with all the space in the world.

That was the final action of the first half as the side walked off to a chorus of boos from the home stands.

Nick Montgomery made a triple substitution at half-time in an attempt to change the game, however, they never looked like overcoming the first half deficit as St Mirren professionally saw the game out.

Hibs did create a handful of half-chances but never truly threatened the Buddies goal.

It was a truly worrying performance from Montgomery’s men, after a busy January transfer window more would’ve been expected from their new singings.

Hibs are now without a win in six league games, and their upcoming run of fixtures isn’t easy, first up is Celtic at home on Wednesday night.

Former MSP and SNP President, Michael Russell, has joined the Scottish Land Commission as Chair

The Scottish Government announced the appointment of the new Chair and two other new members to the Board of the Scottish Land Commission.

Michael Russell replaces the outgoing Andrew Thin, while Dr Craig Mackenzie and Professor Deb Roberts have also been appointed as Commissioners.

Mr Russell, served as a Scottish Government Minister and Member of the Scottish Parliament at various times between 1999 and 2021. He has had long-term involvement in the topic of land reform, and was Environment Minister from 2007 to 2009.

He said: “I am honoured and excited to be appointed as Chair of the Scottish Land Commission after an independently scrutinised competitive recruitment process.

“Land is a vital resource for every citizen of our country and how we share it, care for it, and use it is a key issue at the heart of Scotland’s continuing story.

“I am strongly committed to a process of land reform which ensures that all communities benefit from this national asset and that it contributes to our sustainable well-being as a vital part of the process of building a fair and equitable Scotland.”

Michael was a member of the Scottish Parliament Committee which scrutinised the Land Reform Bill in 2015, and an MSP for the South of Scotland Region for two terms before being elected in 2011 to serve the constituency of Argyll and Bute.

He retired from representational politics in 2021 but remained SNP President until 2023. He is the author of seven books and has worked as a columnist and commentator as well as a television producer and director and founded the Celtic Music Festival. Mr Russell was also a part-time Professor in Scottish Culture and Governance at the University of Glasgow and is the trustee of several charities.

He added: “The first Chair and Commissioners, appointed as a result of the 2016 Act, have done a superb job and created a huge resource in terms of research and positive practice and helped to develop a strong staffing base with an enviable reputation for openness and fair dealing.

“Andrew Thin has led the organisation with dedication and enthusiasm and I am very aware of the legacy to which I and the new Commissioners will have to live up as they learn from those still in office.”

Andrew Thin was appointed as the first Chair of the Scottish Land Commission in 2016 and has led the organisation through its establishment as a new public body and since. Andrew’s leadership has brought challenge and openness to the Commission’s approach, developing clear recommendations for changes in law and policy as well as a strong focus on culture change in responsible land ownership.

Michael Russell is joined by Dr Craig Mackenzie and Prof Deb Roberts who replace the outgoing Megan MacInnes and Professor David Adams.

Craig is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh Business School who brings over 20 years of experience in investment management, combining financial and sustainable investment roles.

Over his career, he has shaped good practice standards on corporate environmental and social responsibility, serving on advisory boards for the Global Reporting Initiative. As an academic, he founded the Centre for Business and Climate Change (now BCCaS) at the University of Edinburgh and helped launch carbon management and climate finance MSc programs.

Dr Mackenzie’s PhD is in behavioural finance and he has published papers on sustainability and corporate responsibility. He said: “I am excited to join the Scottish Land Commission as a Commissioner and look forward to using my financial and standards-setting experience to contribute to more sustainable and equitable land use and development. Scotland’s landscapes hold immense potential, and I am eager to play a role in helping to achieve it.”

Professor Deb Roberts is Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Science at the James Hutton Institute.

Professor Roberts trained as an agricultural economist and, before moving into her current position, her research focussed on understanding how agricultural and environmental policies affect economic development and social well-being in rural areas. She holds an Honorary Chair in Real Estate at the University of Aberdeen.

She said: “It is a huge honour and privilege to be joining the Scottish Land Commission as a Commissioner and to have the opportunity to build on the progress made by my predecessors.

“The importance of land for Scotland’s economy, environment and society has never been clearer and we are at a critical stage in the Land Reform process. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in shaping Scotland’s land policies for the benefit of all.”

Hamish Trench, Chief Executive at the Scottish Land Commission said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming such a breadth of experience to our board.

“Of course, it does mean that we have to say goodbye to Andrew, Megan and David – who have been incredibly valuable to the Commission during their time here and made significant leadership contributions over the last seven years.

“It marks another key milestone for our work as a Commission though, and we’re looking forward to the fresh thinking and knowledge the new board members will bring in shaping land reform.”

The Scottish Land Commission is a public body established on 1 April 2017 by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016 and wholly funded by the Scottish Government to advise on changes to law, policy, and practice. The Board of Commissioners sets the strategic direction of the organisation and is supported by a team of staff based in Inverness.

These appointments will be for five years and will run from 01 February 2024 to 31 February 2029 and are regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
Michael Russell’s appointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £279.52 per day for a time commitment of 48 days per financial year.

Deborah Roberts and Craig MacKenzie’s appointments are part-time and attract a remuneration of £224.48 per day for a time commitment of 24 days per financial year.
Michael Russell, Deborah Roberts and Craig MacKenzie do not hold any other public appointments.
All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public:

Michael Russell was MSP for Argyll and Bute from 2011 – 2021 and a Member of the SNP from 1974 – 2023. He was Cabinet Secretary for Government Business and Constitutional Relations from 2018 – 2020 and Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, Europe and External Affairs from 2020 – 2021. Michael Russell was formerly President of the SNP from 2020 – 2023.

Deborah Roberts and Craig MacKenzie have had no political activity within the last five years.

The Scottish Land Commission is an executive non-departmental public body established on 1 April 2017 by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016. The Commission is led by a Board of Commissioners comprised of five Land Commissioners and the Tenant Farming Commissioner, who are appointed by Scottish Ministers. The Board of Commissioners was chaired, until 31 January 2024, by Andrew Thin, and from 1 February 2024 by Michael Russell, and is supported by a team of staff led by Hamish Trench, the Chief Executive.

The role of the Scottish Land Commission is to advise Scottish Ministers on an ongoing programme of land reform. In addition, it provides leadership for change in culture and practice, conducting a programme of engagement, producing guidance and supporting good practice in land ownership, management and use. The Tenant Farming Commissioner also has a range of statutory powers and has a vital role in improving relationships between tenants and landlords.

The Commission published their Strategic Plan 2023 to 2026, in September 2023, which sets out their key priorities over the next three years with a focus on people, power and prosperity. The Strategic Plan reflects the commitments on land reform in successive Programmes for Government, is consistent with the Scottish Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement, and supports work to deliver a green and inclusive economy and meet climate change targets.

From Friday 9 February until Sunday 18 February, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh are offering a special-edition Valentine’s menu which they say is guaranteed to get the romance sizzling.

The menu will feature a main dish of Surf & Turf – an 8oz Filet Mignon with grilled shrimp, creamy mash, roasted root vegetables and a decadent Diane sauce.

For dessert, the Cafe will serve up Sweetheart Sundaes, combining scoops of strawberry and vanilla ice cream with lemon pound cake and mixed berry compote, garnished with whipped cream and fresh fruit. The sundaes are perfect for sharing, priced at £9.95.

Hard Rock’s renowned mixologists have even crafted a cheeky cocktail for the occasion. The vodka-based ‘Pure Passion Martini’ is sweet, fruity, and designed to have you falling in love all over again.

Cocktails will be to the fore along with sharing platters on 13 February which is officially Galentine’s Day.

For £30 per person, you get up to three martinis each and a selection of food with highlights including haggis spring rolls and balsamic tomato bruschetta.

Bookings are available throughout the day for a minimum of 2 people, and can be made here.

The same package is available for Valentine’s Day on 14 February between 12-4pm. 

The perfect daytime double-date, or the start to a romantic evening out in Edinburgh, bookings should be made here.

From Hamilton to Hollywood’s Broderick and Parker, new writing to bite-size drama and a magical trip along the Yellow Brick Road, February has it all. 

What better way to open a new monthly theatre column than with the arrival of, arguably, the hottest ticket on the planet right now, Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s blockbuster musical, which comes to the Festival Theatre for a nine week season (28 February-27 April).

Welcome to ‘Líam Rudden – Must See Theatre’, my new monthly column exclusive to The Edinburgh Reporter in which I shall be recommending the best shows to see in Edinburgh, and beyond, in the coming weeks. Each month, I’ll select my Must See shows coming to the city and picking one Hot Ticket to catch if taking a London theatre break, along with production news and maybe even the odd bit of showbiz gossip.

Right, back to Hamilton, the story of one of America’s founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton, ‘an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today’.

After seeing the original London West End cast in 2018, I wrote, ‘Hamilton is a magical, engaging spectacular laced with a dark vein of humour that makes for a glorious fun evening’. Sung-through, the score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway ensuring the story fairly rolls along. I also noted at the time, ‘The raps are insanely catchy and the energy and talent on stage, mesmerising’. If you have tickets, you’re in for a treat. If not, there are limited seats still available at many performances.

Running time 2 hours 45 minutes including interval. Tickets £25-£99.50 https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/all-shows/hamilton/2158 

Two very different musicals tour to The Playhouse this month, the first of which has one of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s most powerful compositions, I Don’t Know How To Love Him. Sung by Mary Madeline. For me it is the highlight of any production of Jesus Christ Superstar (6-10 February), so I’m looking forward to seeing Timothy Sheader’s new production which was originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.

Set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas, if any musical should carry the tagline ‘a tale as old as time’ it is perhaps this one, other showstoppers to listen out for are Gethsemane and the anthemic Superstar. 

Performances Tuesday-Saturday, 7.30pm, Wednesday & Saturday 2.30pm. Running time 1 hour 50 minutes including interval. Tickets £13-£68

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/jesus-christ-superstar/edinburgh-playhouse/

Just close your eyes, click your heels and think, ‘There’s no place like home’ and you may well find yourself back at The Playhouse a week later as, direct from London’s West End, comes Michael Harrison’s brand new production of The Wizard Of Oz (13-17 February). 

Yes, it’s time to follow the yellow brick road with Dorothy, Toto and her unlikely friends as they determine to defeat The Wicked Witch of the West, played by RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne. 

Watch out too for the ever popular Gary Wilmot as The Wizard – last time I saw him on The Playhouse boards was as Bill Snibson in the 1983 tour of Me And My Girl. His casting might just assuage the fact I’ve never been a fan of L Frank Baum’s psychedelic fantasyland. Generations are, however, so I’m hoping this is the production to change my mind. Altogether now, We’re Off To See The Wizard…

Running time 2 hours 5 minutes including interval. Tickets £13-£79 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-wizard-of-oz/edinburgh-playhouse/ 

If drama is your thing, The Lyceum it always the place to be and this month, a new play by the theatre’s artistic director David Greig, starring Shauna Macdonald, Jess Hardwick and Erik Olsson receives its premiere.

A co-production with Malmö Stadsteater, Two Sisters (10 February-2 March) reflects on who we were at 16, who we became, and the gap between these expectations: Emma and Amy return to their childhood paradise, a seaside caravan park. The park has changed and childhood is now a distant memory. With career anxieties and romantic complications, resurfacing memories remind them how far, or not, they have come from their teenage selves.

If you’d like a deeper insight into the work, there’s a post show discussion after the evening performance on 27 February with members of the cast, creative team and writer. 

Running time TBC. Tickets £16-£38 (Previews £15)  https://lyceum.org.uk/events/two-sisters#dates-and-times   

Thinking of taking a theatre break? February’s London Hot Ticket, is a Must See for fans of Ferris Bueller and Sex And The City, Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite (until 31 March), stars real-life husband and wife Matthew Broderick, Sarah Jessica Parker as not one, but three different couples in one famous hotel room. Karen and Sam are a long-married pair whose relationship may be headed for an early checkout. Muriel and Jesse are former high school sweethearts who seem destined for an extended stay. And Norma and Roy are the mother and father of the bride, ready to celebrate their daughter’s nuptials – if only they can get her out of the bathroom.

In New York, Plaza Suite became the must-have ticket for Broadway audiences playing to sold-out houses and shattering multiple box-office records at the Hudson Theatre, in London, see it at  The Savoy Theatre.

Running time TBA. Tickets £40 (daily lottery)-£300 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/plaza-suite/savoy-theatre/ 

Finally, if you’re hungry for a bite-sized slice of lunchtime theatre, A Play, A Pie, And A Pint returns for another season at The Traverse with Jack, by Liam Moffat (22 February-2 March), a darkly comic monologue exploring life, love, loss and hope, all with the help of man’s best friend. When newly christened puppy Jack’s reluctant owner’s life spirals into self-destruction, booze, hook-ups, and the Virgin Mary, can Jack come to the rescue?

Running time 50 minutes. Tickets £17.50 (Play only £12) https://www.traverse.co.uk/whats-on/event/a-play-a-pie-a-pint-jack-spring-24  

Reviews of all these productions will appear on my Must See Theatre Substack subscribe free at líamrudden.substack.com and each review will be delivered straight to your inbox as it goes live.

Thanks for reading, until next month, happy theatre-going. 

Líam

• Líam Rudden
• Writer. Broadcaster. Director.
• Liam Rudden Media | Must See Theatre
• Website www.liamrudden.com 
• X (formerly Twitter) @LiamRudden
• Instagram @liamruddenofficial

Soundhouse are bringing Cahalen Morrison to Edinburgh for a one off gig at Traverse.

Originally from New Mexico the Americana musician and songwriter has settled in Scotland after a decade of touring. Equally at home on guitar, banjo, mandolin, singing three part harmony or unaccompanied, he has carved out a place for himself as a unique voice in American music.

Cahalen Morrison said: “After a lengthy process, at the end of 2023 I relocated from the States to Edinburgh. Since the beginning of the pandemic I have spent a lot of time here so it feels great to finally make it official. I have always been deeply drawn to the music, arts, people and culture, so (despite the weather) it is a very warm feeling to finally be a resident. I played my first gig in Edinburgh in 2011 for  Douglas and Jane-Ann, so it feels full circle to start my musical journey as a resident in Scotland with them.  I am thrilled to be kicking off the new Soundhouse season at the Traverse Theatre.  I hope to see some new and familiar faces there.”  

Douglas Robertson and Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producers of this year’s Traverse One series said: “Cahalen is one of the most talented musicians and songwriters we have come across in the past two decades. We can think of no one finer to kick off our new Traverse One gig programme in 2024.”

Cahalen Morrison live at Traverse One 
with special guest Cera Impala
Tickets: £16/£13

Date: Thursday 15 February 2024

Doors open: 7:30pm | Music starts: 8pm (bar open from 7pm)

Location: Traverse One, 10 Cambridge Street, Edinburgh

www.soundhouse.org.uk. 

The concert is supported by funding from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

A Scottish boys team, playing as Caledonia, took a silver medal from the Festival of Water Polo in Manchester.

Among their rivals in a tournament won by English side St Ambrose was a secondary Scottish team known as “Storm”.

It was a strange experience for some of the Caledonians as the previous day some Storm players were team-mates in the Scottish under-15 championships.

Caledonian player Bram Stenhouse, 13, a member of the Warrender club, was voted Scotland/Caledonia coaches player of the year on the basis of outstanding improvement over the past 12 months.

Bram said: “It was an honour and an exciting experience to represent Scotland in the Manchester tournament. We all played our very best and were delighted to take home silver medals. Thanks to our coach Ruaridh Henderson who has taught us so much and also to our team managers.”

A total of 25 teams took part in the Manchester Festival.

The successful Scottish squads comprised:

Caledonia – Frank Bacik, Andrew Coulson, Charlie Grey, Fraser Hughes, Alex Hurd, James Lees, Ben Maclean, Dominic Moodie, Bram Stonehouse, John Wilson.

Caledonia Storm – Matt Alborough, Aaron Bayne, Wilf Braban, Ethan Cole, Matthew Cox, Euan Ferrier, Michael Moodie, Kari Patterson, Ben Saywell, Muray Simpson, Caleb Wilson.

Coaches – Alastair Campbell and Ruaridh Henderson. Assistant coaches – Leo Sanders and Keith Bayne. Managers – Nicola Moodie, Peter Wilson and Geraldine Simpson.

Andrew McKinlay, chief executive officer for Heart of Midlothian FC, outlined why the club have opened a new, 25-bed hotel in the main stand at Tynecastle.

He explained that the hotel work has been completed over the past year but the main stand has been on-going for a few years and this was the final floor which would have been finished a few years ago but COVID intervened. 

He revealed that there were a few ideas about what to do on the floor, like office space, but added: “COVID put paid to that as an idea and we came back to the hotel concept which was originally in the plans.”

Some of the fans have argued on social media that the board should spend money on the team and not on a hotel but McKinlay said: “We have never spent as much on the team as we have in the last ten years.

“It is fair to say that our expenditure on the team has gone up and up in my time here, but what is really important is to make sure the income stream is going up and up going forward.

“Yes, we have spent a significant amount of money on the team, but the hotel becomes a significant income stream and all the income we make goes back towards the team.

“Some of our income streams are almost maxed out as we sell our season tickets and there is a finite amount you get from the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) for your league position.

“You cannot guarantee European group stages every year and you can’t guarantee that you are going to sell a player, but what you can do is look at what your offerings are in the stadium when we are not playing football. This (hotel) adds a real string to our bow about what we can offer.”

McKinlay believes that hotel patrons will be a mix of fans and non-football fans, but he argued that the facility is not far from the centre of Edinburgh and the Capital is always looking for hotel rooms for various events.

There are sports and music occasions at Murrayfield and, during the Edinburgh Festival, there are always people looking for rooms but generally, he said, the city is a big tourist magnet and there are always people looking for rooms.

He stressed: “It is not a football hotel, it is a hotel within a football stadium which has some nods to Hearts in the colours etc, but it is a very nice hotel in its own right.”

There will, he said, dynamic pricing as there is with all hotels and McKinlay said: “If you want to stay here on the night that Taylor Swift is here then it will be higher, but if you want to stay here at another time then it will be reasonably priced. 

“We want to get that right as we are a family-owned club and we want a price so some of our fans to come and stay here.”

Parking is an issue in Edinburgh but the chief executive officer said: “There is not a lot we can do about that as car parking is tight here. We will have some car parking spaces available for hotel guests, but you are encouraged in any planning not to have huge amount of carp parking spaces in the big cities. That is the direction of travel these days.” 

PICTURE: Craig Gordon on a bed in the hotel. Picture courtesy of David Mollison and Heart of Midlothian FC

VIPs AT THE OPENING: Graeme Pacitti, Ann Budge, Andrew McKinlay and Craig Gordon. Picture David Mollison

The Tynecastle Park Hotel is open for business, utilising a space in the main stand at Heart of Midlothian FC which has not been used until now, and providing a new revenue stream for the ambitious cinch Premiership club.

Cash generated from the 25-bed hotel, which is claimed to be the first club-owned and operated hotel inside a football stadium in the UK, will be ploughed back into the team and guests and the media were given a sneak preview of the facility only hours before the official opening.

And the verdict? Well, if I had a choice then I would definitely bring out my wallet and pay to stay here. It is beautifully-furnished, modern, far more spacious than I had anticipated, and the Emperor beds look really comfortable. Twin beds can be supplied.

All rooms have en-suite, walk-in showers – no baths – and the rooms are air-conditioned, have large-screen TV (55-plus inch) and complimentary, high-speed, wi-fi, and really do offer comfort. The marble finishings ooze quality and luxury Molton Brown toiletries underline attention to detail.

Selected rooms use the latest technology to provide guests with the option of a live view of the pitch or city skyline and carpeting throughout is tasteful and, despite the hotel being integrated in a football stadium, there is not a plethora of Heart of Midlothian FC material.

Basically, this hotel has been well thought out, and the styled rooms include family, executive and accessible rooms, but there is more.

There are dedicated meeting, conference and event spaces, not big but certainly comfortable, and they appear ideal for executives to host corporate talks with staff and clients.

Heating is temperature controlled. If you are not in a room then the heat is decreased. A great idea in these energy saving days.

The hotel is ideally situated for those taking in a concert of a rugby match at nearby Murrayfield Stadium. A 15 minute stroll. Regular bus services are at the top of McLeod Street and Haymarket Stadium, with links to the busy West and East Coast rail lines, is a short walk or brief taxi ride. Edinburgh Airport is easily accessible.

Tynecastle Park Hotel is also convenient for those who wish to take in the Edinburgh Festival, yes, a wee bit outside of the city centre, but not that far and there are local shops which will provide those extras or help top up what you have forgotten to bring with you.

Prices are extremely competitive. The Plaza rooms are from £90, Roseburn and Accessible from £117 and Executive from £180. The family room is from £180. 

Derek Paterson, the manager, said fans have been quick to buy into the concept and bosses have also reached out to Booking.com where the response has also been encouraging.

The popular Skyline Restaurant sits on the top floor of Tynecastle Park, providing seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients.

Undoubtedly, it will take time for word to filter through, but the Tynecastle Park Hotel is definitely an option for tourists, concert goers and sports fans, and it does have some parking spaces. Take a look on the website. 

An Edinburgh footballing exile is preparing to “live the dream” on Sunday by going toe to toe with Inter Miami and their galaxy of international superstars including Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets.

Just over six months ago Calum Hall, 23, ex-Hutchison Vale, Hibernian Youth and Edinburgh City was playing part-time with Gala Fairydean Rovers in the Lowland League while working on a building site.

But an opportunity to play full-time arose in Hong Kong where he has been chosen as part of a representative X1 to face the MLS tourists co-owned by David Beckham, former England icon and featuring Messi, who captained Argentina to the World Cup last year.

At the same time Calum might have one eye on the opening of the Six Nations Rugby Championship where cousin Cameron Redpath is on the Scotland bench in Wales!

Says Calum, a defender who turned out alongside the likes of Ryan Porteous and Josh Campbell when coming up through the ranks at Hibs: “Games like Sunday’s seemed impossible to imagine playing in at some point even six months ago but here I am just living the dream.

“Football has so many doors and opportunities so you never know what’s around the corner. Just as long as I keep my head down and never get too high or too low I’ll be proud with whatever the outcomes are for the future.

“Never did I ever think I’d ever get the chance to play against these types of players. The dream was to become a football player and managing to do that last summer was an opportunity that as time went on might never happen so to fulfil that dream was a feeling of pride and a bit of relief I suppose.

“Anything else I achieve in my career I can look at as a bonus as I know how hard I’ve had to work to continue fighting and never giving up on my dream of being able to play football full time for one year or for the next 15 years I can proudly say I got there eventually!

“Sunday has the potential to be one of the best experiences I might ever have in my career so I’ll be making sure I cherish every moment.

 “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. Just a perfect example to any young lad from Edinburgh or anywhere to never give up on their dreams because in football especially you never know how far away you really are.”

Calum signed for the Eastern club and has settled well.

“I love it out here in Hong Kong and with the prospect of staying here for another six years and being eligible to represent the national team that would give me immense pride.

“I’d love to be able to give something back to the place that gave me a place and opportunity to do what I love. “

And with a smile he adds: “That’s unless Scotland come knocking first. Of course!”

The whole footballing scene has proved captivating:

 “Asia’s footballing network is massive, a lot bigger than what people think.

“Experiencing different countries and cultures is something I’m always open to.  I suppose you could say that I’m open to playing football all over the world as long as I’m happy then that’s what it’s all about.

“Living in the moment and making the most of the opportunity you get!”

And opportunities don’t come much bigger than being able to share a pitch with the record setting eight times Ballon d’or winner and his former Barcelona colleagues Busquets, Suarez and Albi.

Meanwhile, Calum’s mum, Billie, will be watching avidly on Apple TV along with younger son Rory, 18, an international gymnast and husband John whose sister, Gill, is married to Bryan Redpath, former Scotland rugby captain and father of Cameron.

Says Billie: “To see Calum picked as one of the foreign players in the Hong Kong team is such a dream for him and, of course, he’ll be hoping to get the Messi jersey in a swap afterwards. But won’t they all!

“Calum’s already bought two Inter Miami jerseys anyway with the aim of getting them signed!”

Mrs Hall doesn’t have to wait long for a reunion with her son as she is flying out next week just in time to see him play in a local Cup Final with an Eastern club that also includes players from Krygyzstan, Ghana, Israel and Spain as well as Chinese players.

Tynecastle Park Hotel, situated in the main stand at Tynecastle, opens for business on February 3 offering 25 stylish rooms, a club lounge and matchday experiences.

Prices are from £90 and the owners aim to give guests more than just a good night’s sleep. It is claimed to be the UK’s first club-owned and operated hotel.

You can stay in the Plaza, named after the Foundation Plaza at the front of the stand in McLeod Street, the Roseburn and Accessible, both advertised from £117, and also the executive from £180.

There is also a family room, two adjacent rooms sharing an interconnecting door. These air-conditioned rooms are fitted with an extra large Emperor bed and can be reversed as a double or twin to suit client needs.

The promotional material says: “We strive to exceed your expectations with our personal approach to hospitality and we want to leave you with lasting memories.

“If you’re here because you’re a Heart of Midlothian fan, then it doesn’t get any better. Tynecastle Park Hotel is the perfect setting for you to enjoy a special weekend at home away from home.

“We’ve got the Ultimate Matchday Experience lined up for you to enjoy, with a stadium tour, museum visit and the club shop on your doorstep.”

If guests are a visitor to Edinburgh, then Tynecastle Park provides an excellent base from which to explore. The promotional material says: “We’re within walking distance of Haymarket Station, with excellent transport links to the city centre and the airport. You are also a stone’s throw from several major event venues, including Murrayfield and the O2 Academy.”

Food is served in The Skyline Restaurant which sits on the top floor of Tynecastle Park, providing guests with hand-crafted seasonal dishes. Ingredients are sourced locally.

Liam Boyce has suffered a setback in his recovery from injury and will need surgery. That’s the latest word from the dressing-room supplied by head coach Steven Naismith.

He told a press briefing at The Oriam that the timeline on recovery is between six and eight weeks and he said: “His hamstring injury proved to be more of a tendon issue rather than purely muscle.”

Peter Haring picked up a knee injury at Livingston and Cammy Devlin has stepped up his comeback after injury. The Aussie is back training with the group but is not ready to be considered for the squad.

Scott Fraser, who has joined on-loan from London club, Charlton Athletic, has been training with the squad this week and Naismith said: “Whether he starts, or is on the bench, we’ll wait and see.”

Looking at Dundee, who were edged recently at Tynecastle, Naismith said: “We are under no illusions, this is going to be another tough game. They are a well coached team, a young ream, but they have a lot of enthusiasm and quality.

“We’re going there on a good run, filled with confidence, and we need to make that count.” 

Meanwhile, fans travelling to Dens Park are advised that there is no cash gate and supporters who do not have a ticket should not travel.

Hearts ticket office staff will be on duty at the main reception at Dens Park from 1.45pm for fans who have still to collect/receive tickets.

Rules on parking around the stadium have changed.

PICTURE: Liam Boyce

Of all the areas in Edinburgh, Fountainbridge is probably the one which has changed the most in recent years. Following the closure of the breweries, it has rapidly transformed into a residential area, packed with new flats. As in other areas of the city (such as that around Salamander Street), a whole new area of the city has emerged with new streets and squares engraved onto the city map. 

At the same time, the number of eateries and coffee spots in the area has multiplied. The most obvious places for coffee in the area are Loudons at the Tollcross end of Fountainbridge and Grow Urban, which offers a now familiar combination of botanical goods and specialty coffee. Edinburgh Printmakers, who have creatively repurposed the surviving part of the once vast North British Rubber Company complex, also serve coffee in their popular vegan café. This is one of the clearest manifestations of change in the area. 

One potentially interesting coffee destination  is the mysterious Main St Beanery at the junction of Fountainbridge and Gilmore Place. This place has been closed for a long time but still seems to be being looked after and kept ready. But, ready for what? This long period of mothballing has prompted all sorts of colourful theories online. Shortly before the festive period, a Christmas tree appeared in the window, which again suggested that it might reopen. But as yet, there is no sign of espresso pouring through the portafilters at this Mary Celeste of a place.

Fortunately, just a few yards away is undoubtedly the top coffee spot in the area. Though small, The Coffee Cave is very much open and has quickly built up a strong reputation since starting business in May 2021. The place is easy to miss, wedged between Hank’s Sandwich Bar and Grow Urban. Don’t miss out.

On my visits there, I’ve been served really well made coffees which have been rich and flavoursome. As they should, their cortados really pack a punch with a satisfyingly thick crema colliding with the textured milk. Just the type of coffee that people need in the early morning – many commuters will pass by The Coffee Cave on their way to Haymarket Station. It’s also ideal for those wanting to follow the canal-side walkway which offers one of the most interesting ‘active travel’ routes in the city. Once a backwater, it’s increasingly busy. Take care as you pass under the bridges – you wouldn’t want to see your skilfully brewed coffee knocked from your hand into the water!

The coffee served by The Coffee Cave is roasted by Linlithgow based Black Dog Coffee. Their coffees include the Kambo which has notes of ‘dark chocolate, caramel, honey and slightly floral scents’. Black Dog and The Coffee Cave have been working together to bring the customers ‘a variety of seasonal coffees, so the selection we have available is grown and harvested at specific times according to its location, to ensure we deliver the best possible taste to you.’ These words are certainly borne out by the positive feedback they’ve consistently received.

The Coffee Cave is takeaway only, selling a selection of sweet treats (such as a raspberry and coconut macaroon) alongside the coffee; as well as offering Black Dog beans for home brewing. They also serve savoury snacks, with their black pudding sausage roll a seeming favourite. Noted by myself and several other customers is the service offered by the baristas; warm and welcoming. As Fountainbridge becomes an increasingly popular area, there’s little doubt that the coffee scene will expand. The Coffee Cave has set a high standard for others to follow. 

• The Coffee Cave
• 158 Fountainbridge 
• Edinburgh 
• EH3 9RX

Capital cyclist Rhys Edwards, 17, a student at James Gillespie’s High School, was awarded the British Time Trialling champion of champions trophy for junior men at a ceremony in Daventry, Northamptonshire.

The trophy is named after Chris Boardman, former Olympic and World champion as well as three time Tour de France stage winner.

Rhys rides for Junior development team Trainsharp and previously rode for Edinburgh Road Club.

He won the award for consistent high placings across various British time trial disciplines including short and  long time trials and hill climbs.

Current Scottish Hill climb champion, Rhys received his award from Stirling’s Christina McKenzie, female record holder cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

Yutaro Oda scored the game-winner when Hearts entertained Dundee at rain-soaked Tynecastle just over a week ago and the sides clash again on Saturday, this time at Dens Park (15.00).

Third-placed Hearts, or course, are looking to collect three more points to maintain a healthy cushion between them at the rest of the chasing pack.

Sixth-placed Dundee have 26 points from 21 starts while Hearts have 42 from their 23 games so far in the cinch Premiership.

The Tynecastle team, guided by head coach Steven Naismith (pictured by Ian Jacobs) are unbeaten in their last five games – four wins and a draw – while the Tayside squad have one win and two draws plus two defeats in their recent record.

Hearts have scored 29 goals and conceded 20. Dundee have also scored 29 goals but lost 33 and they are desperate to keep Hibs in seventh. The East Road side also have 26 points from 22 games but have an inferior goal difference.

Statistics show that Hearts have two wins over Dundee in the last five matches but the Dens Park side also have two wins and the sides have one draw between them.

Meanwhile, tickets for Hearts’ Scottish Gas Scottish Cup trip to Airdrie are now on general sale. Prices are adults £25, over 65 are £15 and students £15 with under-16s priced at £10.

Tickets are for collection only.

The Jambos travel to the Excelsior Stadium in the fifth round of the cup on Saturday, February 11 in a 5pm kick-off and the game is live on BBC Scotland.

Resignation follows appearance at UK Covid-19 Inquiry in Edinburgh

Ken Thomson, who only two months ago was appointed as regulatory chief of the global chartered accountancy body The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS), has resigned. He only took up office on 1 January, pledging to promote trust in the accountancy profession through excellence in regulation.

His resignation, said to be for “personal reasons” comes after messages sent by Mr Thomson during the pandemic revealed he advised Scottish Government officials to delete messages – and in one exchange he boasted that “plausible deniability are my middle names”.

Read more here.

Culture and independence

Angus Robertson MSP will unveil the tenth paper in the Building a New Scotland series today – Culture in an independent Scotland – saying it will shine the spotlight on the ways an independent Scotland could achieve greater prosperity with its creative economy and benefit from regaining freedom of movement as part of the EU.

Read more here

Chris Stewart Group have designs on Shandwick Place

Chris Stewart Group which has revived many areas of the Old and New Towns in Edinburgh including the Edinburgh Grand and 329 High Street, has lodged plans to revive buildings at the junction of Queensferry Street and Shandwick Place.

Read more here.

At St Mary’s Episcopal Church on Palmerston Place on Sunday

Join Alexander Armstrong at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh to hear the choir singing Choral Evensong (for Candlemas) at 3.30pm on Sunday 4 February.

There is no need to book for this event. 

MUSIC LIST

• Townhill Lo, God is here
• Matthew Martin Preces & Responses
• Psalm 139; Hymns 54, 56
• Bevan Magnificat Octavi Toni
• Holst Nunc dimittis
• Cecilia McDowall The Presence
• Dupré Lumen ad revelationem

Our February issue

Our February issue is out now. With more on our exclusive story about Chief Constable Jo Farrell revealed in our centre spread and our new columnist to entertain you with news of all the theatre you must see, we are pleased with this month’s issue. We hope you like it too.

If you would like to make sure that you don’t miss any of our monthly newspapers then sign up here. 

A new David Lloyd gym at Shawfair near Dalkeith has come in for a slew of criticism by furious members, with some claiming they have stopped going because it is too busy.

The gym opened in August and boasts luxury gym, pool, spa and recreational facilities but for many members the initial shine of joining the plush club has worn off with a rash of complaints on social media channels.

The litany of issues raised my fed up members include being unable to park, with visitors forced to use a nearby Park ‘n’ Ride facility and walking to the club, abuse of parking spaces reserved for disabled guests, overpriced food, queues to use the spa, overselling memberships and a packed gym area which makes it difficult to train at peak times.

David Lloyd management say some of the issues are down to the post-Christmas January peak demand and they are addressing matters by introducing a waiting list to manage capacity, while some members blame the complaints on “whingers”.

However, in an unscientific poll posted by a member on Facebook, only 56% of those who answered said they would renew their memberships, with 10% saying “cheerio” to David Lloyd, while the remaining 34% were “on the fence” about continuing as members.

The majority of unhappy members say local staff at Shawfair are excellent but blame corporate greed on signing up too many members to boost revenues at the expense of user-experience.

Jay Bee, a member since the gym opened, said: “I haven’t used the gym for the last four months as it’s just too busy now and not enjoyable. My husband and I are just waiting for our 12 months (membership renewal) to be up, then we will move on.

“We were told the cap would be 3,000 members but this clearly was a sales tactic, more fool us. The staff are great but the corporate greed has ruined the place.”

Michael Bryant added: “What was a 5-star facility is now overwhelmed with numbers and has been for months (not January bump) yet still registering members daily. The club is becoming overcrowded, overused and also needs maintenance already.

“Worst of all is the daily and constant abuse of disabled parking that the club management don’t deal with. Greed over member experience it feels.”

Ryan O’Donovan complained that memberships have been oversold, saying: “Majority of times the club is packed, you’re unable to get a parking space let alone use the facilities. This is all despite assurances they would keep membership low to ensure it was not too busy. Not worth spending £150+ per person per month if you can’t use the facilities.”

And Sasha Bey was reprimanded for bringing in her own food to the club. She said: “Absolutely ridiculous. A health club with a restaurant where the food isn’t even remotely macro friendly and is so overpriced for what it is. Maybe work on fixing your food options and pricing before telling people not to eat their own healthy meals in a health club.”

However, member Scott Allan defended the Shawfair club, saying: “I think 90% of the ‘issues’ are folk just being unreasonable whinging melts.”

David Lloyd said they are assessing car parking at the club and will be introducing  a ticketing system to address the complaints around disabled parking, while extra group classes have been added to the timetable in response to high usage.

A spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs said “January is our peak season, and we’d like to thank our members for their patience during this time. We’ve put measures in place to make sure our members have the best experience possible during the busy period.

“There is a waiting list at the club to manage capacity. We’re currently assessing our options for car parking, including more spaces in the future and encourage visits during off peak times where possible. We’re also now hosting extra group exercise classes at quieter times for members. We’d like to remind members that our club General Manager is always on hand to discuss any member concerns.”

Sarah Boyack MSP has been fighting for a new Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh. Here she writes about the latest developments.

Edinburgh is facing massive health challenges: A&E Waiting times are increasing; patients are waiting longer to get vital health operations and access to GPs and NHS dentists is becoming harder.

The Scottish Government’s decision to not fund the construction of a new Edinburgh Eye Pavilion is indicative of these failings and will have dire consequences for Edinburgh’s patients.

I have been campaigning for years to secure a new Edinburgh Eye Pavilion, after the current building was deemed not fit for purpose in 2014. In spring last year, the then Health Minister Humza Yousaf committed to the new Edinburgh Eye Pavilion. 

When I sat down in October with campaigners and patients to meet the current Health Minister Michael Matheson on the urgent need for a new Eye Pavilion, we were assured the decision would be made around the budget. But no mention of the new Eye Pavilion was made in the budget in December, and it has now transpired it will not go ahead due to the Scottish Government’s cuts to capital budgets.

This is a slap in the face to the patients and campaigners who have worked so hard to secure a new Eye Pavilion for the city. With this project not going ahead, patients will be forced to use a building that is unable to deliver the standard of care required from our NHS.

The breadth and depth of support for the campaign has been inspiring.  Hearing from patients, activists, and staff about the severe issues with current facilities has been both shocking and eye opening. After meeting with campaigners in November, myself, and a cross-party group of MSPs from across Edinburgh, wrote to Michael Matheson asking to work constructively towards a new Eye Pavilion. The campaign also garnered the support of Gordon Brown, who has been a patient at the Eye Pavilion for its entire existence. 

However, these calls have now been rejected. The Health Minister’s decision means that the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion will fall deeper into crisis. Already, only one of its operating theatres can be used and the problems caused by floods, lifts breakdowns and other facilities, will lead to countless cancelled or delayed appointments.

The Scottish Government must stick to its election promise and fund a new Eye Pavilion. This issue goes far beyond party politics and patients must have access to the best facilities. If the Scottish Government do not reverse their decision, the consequences would be unthinkable.

One of the great adventures of my teenage years was to cycle solo from my home in Aberdeen to the west coast Island of Iona.  It took a week, there and back, camping along the way in a little green tent I’d made for the expedition. Why Iona? I now wonder.  Was it my Irish heritage? Is Iona Scotland’s spiritual home?  

The stepping stone of Iona, linking Ireland and Scotland, has been much on my mind this week as we watch the new political settlement in Northern Ireland unfolding.   

Certainly, Iona plays an important part in Scotland’s history. It’s where St Columba landed from Ireland in 563 to teach the new religion of Christianity to the heathen Picts and Scots.  His early priory became a Benedictine Abbey in the Middle Ages but fell into ruin at the Reformation. It was rebuilt in the 1930s by unemployed workers from Glasgow led by the Rev George MacLeod. The Iona Community he founded is still alive today, campaigning for political peace and religious reconciliation.   

Coming from Ireland myself as a boy, the Scots-Irish connection has been part of my life.  Many Protestant families, like mine, emigrated to Northern Ireland from lowland Scotland in the 17^th and 18^th centuries as part of the Protestant “plantation”.  Then in the centuries since, many Catholic families have come from Ireland to find work in Scotland.  These mass movements still have their reverberations today, in separate schools, football allegiances and class divides.

It’s heartening then, for all Scots, to see progress this week towards reconciliation in Northern Ireland after the turmoil caused by Brexit. The re-establishment of the Assembly puts the Province back in the jigsaw of the Four Nations that make up the United Kingdom.  It also means that comparisons can be made between them. For instance: if Northern Ireland can have special treatment from the European Union over the so-called “green lane” customs checks, why can’t Scotland?

Of course, the whole sad saga of Ireland would never have happened if Gladstone’s dream of “Home Rule All Round” had not been interrupted by the First World War.  I still have a dream of a Federal Britain  – of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland (North and South). And all of us in the European Union.

The other big story of this week has been the UK Covid Inquiry which has been in Edinburgh examining how Scotland, as a devolved nation, handled the pandemic.  Poor Nicola Sturgeon came close to tears explaining how she, as first minister at the time, did her very best to preserve life, and keep society running, through those panic-ridden years. 

In a dark suit, behind a court room desk, she was subjected to five hours of questioning.  Did she delete her WhatApp messages? Did she take decisions without proper cabinet approval? Did she try to politicise the pandemic to make points about Scottish independence? Did she get anything wrong?

Regrets, she had a few: the deaths of those who succumbed to the virus, of course, but also not introducing a lockdown sooner.  She tried to work with the somewhat dysfunctional UK government led by that “clown” Boris Johnson.  The independence campaign was never in her mind. And yes, she did delete her WhatsApp messages but all decisions were officially recorded and always approved by the cabinet.  

Other ministers and medical officials were questioned by Lady Hallett’s Scottish lawyers and she will now take her inquiry to Wales and Northern Ireland to see how the pandemic was dealt with there. The Covid years brought us as close to a war-time atmosphere as Britain has experienced since 1945. Government diktats and huge expenditure (£370billion) were accepted without much question.  It now seems, however, that having won the war, we want to rake over the ashes and blame someone for the inevitable mistakes.

It won’t bring anyone’s loved-ones back and I think we’re in danger of forgetting it was the virus which killed people, not the politicians who are taking the blame. They were doing their best and we don’t know how many lives they saved, probably millions because of the vaccine roll-out.

History is easy, because it’s all done in retrospect.  I don’t suppose Columba, for all his saintly powers, did everything perfectly. And I don’t suppose he imagined that Scotland would become an uneasy part of such a complicated United Kingdom.   

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson will announce a new paper today which states that an independent Scotland could unlock the potential of the country’s culture and creative sectors on the international stage.

The tenth paper in the Building a New Scotland series – Culture in an independent Scotland – will shine the spotlight on how an independent Scotland could achieve greater prosperity with its creative economy and benefit from regaining freedom of movement as part of the EU.

The paper sets out the benefits an independent Scotland could bring to the country’s culture sector and creative industries, including rejoining the EU as an independent member state.

This would allow artists to move freely without barriers like visas and customs requirements, help Scotland’s culture sector and creative industries reach the people, talent and skills they need, and make it more straightforward for Scottish artists to tour, collaborate and exchange ideas internationally.                                                              

Mr Robertson said: “Culture is one of Scotland’s priceless assets and we are determined to protect and enhance it, putting it at the heart of our communities for the benefit of everyone. These strong foundations could help us become a successful, inclusive, vibrant independent nation.

“Our ambition is to rejoin the EU as a member state in our own right as soon as possible. This would mean regaining the immense benefits of free movement of people and the networks that support the exchange of ideas upon which culture thrives.

“It is more important than ever that Scotland has the powers necessary to support and develop our cultural and creative sectors: to ensure that creative professionals can work and collaborate with their peers around the world and ensure that everyone in Scotland can fully benefit from our rich and diverse culture.”

The City of Edinburgh council will consider proposals for regeneration of heritage buildings on a prominent corner in the West End next week.

The site, at the junction of Queensferry Street and Shandwick Place, is a group of dilapidated buildings which were, until recently, home to a lap dancing venue, a backpackers’ hostel, and short-stay residential accommodation. 

Plans for the site, which are due to be discussed by councillors on 7 February, would create a 129-room, carbon net zero hotel, capable of attracting top international hotel brands. Planning officials recommended the scheme for approval by members of the local authority’s development management sub-committee when it meets next week.

Over the past four years, urban regeneration specialist Chris Stewart Group (CSG) – along with its joint venture partner on this project, Souter Investments – have assembled seven historic properties on the corner site, which faces onto the Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street.

The construction and refurbishment activities associated with development are anticipated to stimulate economic activity within a range of professional service sectors. An economic impact assessment carried out by Biggar Economics estimates that, during the construction phase, the proposed development could generate £7.9 million GVA (gross value added) and 139 job years in the city of Edinburgh.

Once the development becomes operational, economic activity will be generated by those employed to run the hotel and from the day-to-day turnover. Furthermore, there will be additional spending and employment in the economy generated by guests staying at the hotel. This includes tourism spending in the local economy at businesses such as retail shops and restaurants. Combining the impact from hotel operations and tourism spending, the proposed development is expected to generate a total economic impact of £7.4 million per annum GVA and support 384 jobs annually in the city of Edinburgh.

Chris Stewart, CEO of CSG, said: “These buildings are of historical note and are in a prime location, but they’ve suffered from chronic underinvestment and misuse over recent years.Our aim is to combine them in one refurbished block, creating a high-quality development that does justice to these buildings and their position within the world heritage site.

“We are excited by the opportunity to add to Edinburgh’s attractiveness as a destination by bringing these historic buildings back into use and providing them with a sustainable, long-term future. 

“Breathing new life into historic buildings is our passion and this project’s viability relies on the buildings being interconnected. As a business focused predominantly on complex projects involving listed assets, often with sensitive heritage considerations, we are very mindful of our responsibilities to protect and enhance the properties we invest in. We take time to understand the properties we develop, referring to historical records to ensure we respect and reinforce their heritage. 

“Crucially, we are committed to regenerating and reusing these buildings in a way that enables a carbon net zero operation once they are up and running. We will also repair and redeploy much of the existing fabric and materials, which minimises waste and energy use as well as retaining the character of the properties.”

Chris Stewart Group was established almost 30 years ago and is one of the UK’s leading property developers and operators of a new class of residential-serviced apartments and select-service hotels. Based in the capital’s Advocate’s Close, which was itself a major regeneration project for the firm, its award-winning portfolio of developments also include serviced apartments at the Old Town Chambers, The Edinburgh Grand mixed-use development in St Andrew Square, and significant restoration of the A-listed Parish Halls in Glasgow.