Foysol Choudhury MSP is following up support for children with additional support needs. 

Mr Choudhury hosted the ASN Reform Scotland Group’s drop-in session for MSPs at The Scottish Parliament, after meeting the group earlier in the year and offering his assistance to them. 

The Lothians MSP said it was saddening to hear about the lack of appropriate support some children are getting at school, with some parents reporting having to take on the burden of teaching their own children. ASN Reform Scotland have a mission to raise awareness about the issues that children with additional support needs (ASN) and their parents are facing, how to improve ASN education in Scotland, and to help raise awareness of the children and their educational needs.

Training for people who work with children and young people with complex additional support needs emerged as a key theme from The Scottish Government’s recent 2023 report, ‘Pupils with complex additional support needs: research into provision’. 

These findings about challenges in accessing training were echoed by parents in the ASN Reform Scotland Group, who raised concerns that the environment provided by mainstream schools is often not appropriate for children with additional support needs due to, for example, a lack of appropriate training for teachers.

Mr Choudhury said: “It was made clear at the drop-in session that parents feel unsupported. 

“The group are calling to increase ASN provisions in Scotland and ensure all teachers get specific ASN training to bring the best for all our children. 

“There should be support for children with ASN in school along with school staff members getting provided with the correct training in all types of schools, so parents can feel they are sending their children to a safe and beneficial environment.”

Parents from the ASN Reform Scotland group also raised with Mr Choudhury their concerns over-stretched funding and called for accountability over how funds are spent to support their children. The group said this will not just benefit the children’s development but will also help their families, as parents will be assured are that their children are getting the right support and care when they are at school.

A rolling presentation was played at the meeting, to convey the concerns of parents of children with ASN across Scotland. One parent noted they want “All teachers to have ASN training in mainstream schools”.  Another noted: “My child deserves to thrive, not just survive in school”.

Mr Choudhury says he will continue to support the ASN Reform Group whenever he can.

The Scottish Government’s recent 2023 report ‘Pupils with complex additional support needs: research into provision’ can be read at this link: https://www.gov.scot/publications/research-provision-pupils-complex-additional-support-needs-scotland/pages/2/

Haddington Athletic Community Football Club will be sponsored for the next two years by Lamp of Lothian.

The deal will see the local charity’s logo emblazoned across the training kit of over 85 youth players plus coaches spanning every age group from under-8 to under-16. They will also become the match kit shirt sponsor for the under-14s.

As per the agreement, the Haddington-based charity will support the club’s end of season ‘Haddy Social’ whilst the Lamp will also have use of Haddington Athletic’s clubhouse at Whittinghame Drive for events.

Lamp of Lothian was founded in 1967 by the late Elizabeth, Duchess of Hamilton. to support a wide range of cultural, artistic and social activities from its collection of listed buildings at Poldrate Mill in Haddington.

Haddington Athletic now has over 400 youth players and 97 volunteer coaches across 26 teams

Pictured, left to right, are: Colin Bowsher (youth section chair), Eve Mercer (under-14s), Jenny Harper (Lamp of Lothian chair), Amy Diggins (under-12s), Jane Haydock.

Pic credit: Iain Mercer.

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

If you see anything on the roads which is not on the list then let the travel team know on Twitter @EdinTravel

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

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Buckstone Primary and Nursery Schools have been commented on favourably following a recent inspection by Education Scotland.

The inspectors found that the headteacher offer strong compassionate leadership to her senior leadership team, and that together they provide direction and encouragement to ensure the well-being and improvement of children and the staff. With good and very good results noted throughout, the inspectors also commented that the staff feel very well supported by the senior leadership which then translates into a “welcoming environment characterised by positive relationships across the school”.

A couple of areas were mentioned which could be improved: that the planning of learning in nursery class should be developed to ensure it is of the highest quality, and senior leaders and staff should continue to develop the “quality of teachers’ practice”.

But inspectors said they do not plan not make any further visits to the 409 pupil school where there is a 96.8% attendance rate which is above the national average.

The full report can be read here.

A record number of families have had to make the difficult decision to give up their pets this year.

With a rise in the number of households welcoming new pets to their family during Covid, coupled with the increased costs of living, 2023 has been a busy year for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home (EDCH) which has taken in more pets than ever before.

So far this year, the Home has received 1,208 surrender requests (898 dogs and 479 cats). The increase in demand has left the Home unable to take in almost 9 in 10 of the requests it receives.

Additionally, since January 2023, more than 561 enquiries, a 33% increase from last year, have been made by families struggling to make ends meet and subsequently seeking support to help keep their pets at home, and there has been an increase in demand for the Home’s food bank service in East and Central Scotland.

But the EDCH team has already supported 148 dogs and 72 cats to find new loving homes for life this past year and has managed to keep over 4,500 pets with their owners through community support services such as pet food banks, educational content and training, and other outreach services.

The Home has also delivered a fantastic 85 emergency dog first aid courses and an additional 144 full dog first aid qualifications to pet owners in Edinburgh, helping to keep the city’s pets safe and healthy.

Piper is one pet which came into the Home earlier this year, heavily pregnant and living outside as a stray.

Piper was brought to the Home by a couple who had seen her around their neighbourhood for a couple of months. They had tried to find her owner by posting on Facebook to no avail. When they noticed that Piper’s belly was getting bigger, they put it down to a potential health problem and decided to bring her to the home – luckily just in time.

Piper gave birth to 4 healthy kittens on her very first night in the Home, without which, she would have had to try and find a safe space to give birth outside and her kittens might not have survived. The team had settled the cat into the Home quickly on the night she arrived and she was able to give birth to her kittens in a safe environment. By the morning.

Just a few months later, Piper has been happily rehomed with vet nurse Lauren, who fell in love with Piper when she visited Lauren’s vet practice for mastitis treatment after giving birth, and then again to be spayed.

Lauren and her partner visited Piper a couple of times at the Home and enjoyed playing with her and getting to know her. From the first night they took her home, she was snuggled up on their bed, enjoying head scratches and cuddles and is slowly gaining trust to come up to them and sit on their laps.

Lauren said: “It just feels like my life wasn’t complete without having a cat and she’s just fitted in so well, I feel like it was meant to be. She’s honestly amazing. I love her little personality, she’s independent but so friendly and affectionate as well, she’s the perfect cat.”

Pipers kittens; Snowflake, Calico, Atreyu, Maya are are all doing well and have recently gone to their own homes.

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home said: “Thanks to the hard work of our team, the support of volunteers who have donated almost 2,000 hours over the course of the past year, and the generosity of the people of Edinburgh and beyond for their kind donations, we have been able to help many pets through preventative community work and by caring for and rehoming animals who come to us. However, to help us keep on top of the unprecedented increase in demand, now more than ever we’re relying on funding from public donations to enable us to support owners going through hard times to stay together with their pets, or rehabilitate and rehome pets like Piper.”

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home finds winter a difficult time as higher costs drain funds while demand for their services increases. To help get through the winter months, the Home recently launched a Winter Appeal, seeking donations to help cope with the increased demand, continue providing support to animals in need and help people to keep their pets at home.

To make a donation and to read more of their life-altering stories please visitwww.edch.org.uk/winterappeal OR text SURRENDER to 70560 to donate £5.

Donations of £20 can provide a cat with the vaccinations they require to be rehomed or £100 could keep a dog warm in the Home for three months.

 
Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message, and you will be opting into hearing more from Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home. If you would like to donate but don’t wish to hear more, text SURRENDERNOINFO instead.

The support of generous donors has kept Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home open for 140 years and given Piper and hundreds like them a safe place to recover and find love. The Home has become an important part of the city and to bring this to life Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has photographed some of its former residents that have now been rehomed Reggie, Truffle, Martha, and Toffee, at some of Edinburgh’s other well-known locations including the Forth Bridge, Greyfriars Bobby and Edinburgh Castle.

All Back to Vinyl Mamouna by Bryan Ferry

Bryan Ferry’s 1994 album remains intriguing for several reasons, he spent six years working on the project and would invite various members of Roxy Music to collaborate on the project including Brian Eno. The album would even feature their first co-write on Wildcat Days and also includes one of two appearances on the album from their former band-mate Andy McKay.

Eno’s ‘sonic treatments’ bring a haunting atmosphere to Mamouna while allowing it to stand on its feet as one of Ferry’s most ambitious solo outings to date. Opening cut Don’t Want To Know has a Lynchian quality that segues into the moody NYC perhaps summing more nostalgic images of the Big Apple.

In many ways the album is relatable to David Bowie’s Outside released a year later, also featuring Brian Eno. Perhaps Bowie’s most criminally underrated it features similar sense of an artist pushing themselves in a more challenging direction while channeling the power of a talented team of players. Much like Bowie on Pin-Ups and later Toy, Ferry’s covers album Taxi had helped get his creative juices flowing again. The musicians he worked with on that album would continue the relationship on Momouna.  

Originally titled Horoscope, his ninth album includes the hypnotic Which Way To Turn featuring Ferry’s former Roxy Music bandmate Phil Manzanera. His distinctive playing lifts the track to another level. This is an album that benefits repeated listens, allowing it to gradually get under your skin and sweep you away under a moonlight tide, such is the emotional power of the music, melody and atmosphere on tracks such as Your Painted Smile.

The deluxe vinyl edition is presented as a gatefold 2LP edition on 180 gram heavyweight vinyl cut by half-speed mastering at Abbey Road. It features the original Horoscope album which includes an almost 10 minute version of Roxy Music’s Mother of Pearl from their 1973 long-player Stranded. This is an artist at his peak not allowing record company deadlines or the corporate world to define his output.

A mesmerising piece of work.  

Scotland host the Civil Service Sports Club shore angling championships next year and they are determined to make home advantage count.

The three-man squad of Dunfermline-based Gus Brindle and Peter Smalls and David McKervail (Inverkeithing) finished fifth on the River Tyne near Newcastle in the event won by North-West of England with Eastern second and hosts North-East third.

But Scotland at least they had the consolation of Smalls who fished a brilliant second-half of the match to finish in second place in his section.

Ten regional teams from across Britain took part in the six-hour match with high tide at the half-way point. 

Brindle (pictured), who is chairman of the Scottish Federation for Coarse Angling, said: “The River Tyne normally fishes well when the tide is coming in (flood tide), with bites slowing over high water as the flow slows and then changes direction (into the ebb tide). It traditionally fishes harder as the tide goes out. 

“You really needed to hit the ground running and get straight into fish to stand any chance.  On the ebb, the river really pulls and you needed up to 8oz grip leads to hold bottom out towards the middle.  

“Conditions in the river were also not ideal as their was lots of debris – leaves, grass, twigs and branches – in the water and these quickly coated lines and hooks and dislodged grip leads making it difficult to get good presentation or keep baits in the water long enough to get bites.  

“That said, there were plenty of fish to be caught with cod, whiting the most prolific, along with the odd flounder, eel and even a couple of haddock making an appearance.”  

Brindle admitted: “Sadly, as a team, we struggled at the start as we worked to get to grips with the conditions and were therefore playing catch-up.”

Next October, the Scottish Region hosts and Brindle said: “We now have a year to prepare and try to regain the title on home soil.  The 2024 event will be on Elliot Beach Arbroath with Riverside Drive, Dundee, the back-up venue.”

Fife Flyers meet Guildford Flames in the knockout quarter-final of the Challenge Cup and the dates have been confirmed.

Fife host the Surrey combine on Wednesday, December 6 (19.30) and travel to The Spectrum on Wednesday, December 13 for the return.

Coach Tom Coolen and his men had the option of home-ice advantage as the fourth seeds. Guildford were seeded No 5.

For the record, the teams were tied on win percentage but were separated on tie break.

The remaining three fixtures will be confirmed after the final group stage match on Wednesday.

Tickets for the opening clash at The Fife Ice Arena are £16 for adults, £11 for concessions and £8 for children and season ticket holders have a priority purchase period which runs until 6pm on Wednesday, November 29.

Any season ticket seats not purchased will go on general sale along with the rest of the tickets on Thursday, November 30 at 8am. 

PICTURE: Cardiff Devils v Fife Flyers last Sunday. Picture by James Assinder courtesy of the Elite League

They are a symbol of fertility, associated with love and marriage and make an exquisite, jewel-coloured jelly.

Now Scotland’s “wildest wild crab apples” have been gathered by a conservation charity to create a “gene bank” orchard to prevent them being “lost forever”.

Woodland Trust Scotland says the scheme established at its Glen Finglas Estate in the Trossachs will provide a “genetic refuge” for the wildest of the nation’s crab apples.

A seed stand of 59 trees was planted by staff and volunteers beside Loch Venachar after a five-year search to find the wildest crab apples around the country.

Twigs cut from pure wild apple trees in Galloway, Argyll and Ross-shire were grafted to root stock to create the new orchard.

Truly wild crab apple (Malus sylvestris) is one of the rarest trees in Scotland. Precise details are known for only around 300, and their future has been in doubt due to hybridisation with other apples.

The Trust wants a source of truly wild crab apple seeds to plant as part of woodland creation schemes.

It has been working in partnership with forestry consultant Rick Worrell to gather the wild stock to establish the seed stand at Loch Venachar.

Mr Worrell said: “Most apple trees people see in the countryside are not truly native. They are often the result of cores from eating-apples being discarded.

“Apples love to hybridise so there is a wide spectrum of trees out there with varying proportions of wild and domestic genes.”

The new orchard was planted using grafts from truly native trees, which had undergone genetic testing at The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. 

Players of People’s Postcode Lottery helped buy the land where the orchard has been planted.

The seed stand has been established with no domestic or hybrid apple trees nearby, to avoid the chance of cross pollination.

Woodland Trust Scotland volunteers will look after the site where 29 more trees will be added next year.

Matilda Scharsach, the Trust’s Volunteering Development Officer, said: “We can’t wait to see the apple trees blossom in the spring, and to begin to harvest the seed in years to come, to grow on for our planting projects.

“If we hadn’t taken steps to create this new orchard preserving the wildest native stock, there was a real prospect of losing them forever.”

The crab apple (Malus sylvestris) has been described as “a symbol of fertility and a forager’s delight”.

One of the ancestors of the cultivated apple — of which there are more than 6000 varieties — trees can live to up to 100 years.

Mature trees grow to around 10m in height. They have an irregular, rounded shape and a wide, spreading canopy. Their gnarled and twisted twigs give them their “crabbed” appearance that may have influenced the common name, “crab apple”.

Norman Irons, CBE, who was the Rt Hon Lord Provost of the city of Edinburgh between 1992 and 1996, has died.

He was the first SNP Lord Provost, and one of only two SNP councillors in the City Chambers at the time, backed by Labour councillors who voted him into the position.

Then Cllr Irons was preceded in the role by the first woman Lord Provost, Eleanor McLaughlin and succeeded by Eric Milligan the Labour Lord Provost.

He was appointed CBE in the 1995 New Year Honours and was latterly the Honorary Consul for Hungary.

SNP group leader Cllr Adam McVey said: “Norman Irons was an outstanding champion for his community in Corstorphine. It says a lot about his personality, integrity and force of will that he became Edinburgh’s first ever SNP Lord Provost, more than 20 years before the SNP became Edinburgh’s biggest party. In the SNP we must never forget that we stand on the shoulders of people like Norman Irons. People who stood in elections for our party despite the odds being stacked against them,  because they believed in the better future for Scotland that could be built with independence.

“His more recent work in the consular services further cemented Edinburgh’s position as a European Capital and helped link communities together across the city. He’ll be sorely missed and we’re ever grateful for his enormous contribution to our capital and to the independence movement.”

Former Lord Provost Lesley Hinds said: “I was saddened to hear of the death of Norman Irons. My thoughts are with Ann, his wife, his family and friends. 

Norman became Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh in 1992 as a result of an agreement between the SNP and Labour. I worked closely with him when I was Leader of the Council as part of a minority administration and found Norman to be a diligent and hard working Lord Provost. He always had the best interests of Edinburgh at heart and represented the city with pride and dignity. 

“He won a by-election in Drumbrae/North East Corstophine in the 70s and such was his reputation he retained his seat until he retired in 1996. 

“He was a staunch supporter of Scottish independence, which on many occasions caused a debate between us owing to our different views on the future of Scotland, he was always willing to listen to others’ points of view.

“He was proud to be the first Scottish National Party Lord Provost of Edinburgh and I am sure he will also be missed by his party.”

Donald Wilson who was Lord Provost from 2012 to 2017 told The Edinburgh Reporter: “Norman was an excellent Lord Provost. He chaired the Full Council well through difficult times. He also however understood and enhanced the civic role which is so important to the City. He will be greatly missed.”

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge said: “I was saddened to hear the news today of the passing of former Lord Provost Norman Irons. Norman was a truly dedicated public servant as a ward Councillor for over 20 years and was a fantastic ambassador for the city during his time as Lord Provost between 1992-1996. 

“My thoughts and condolences are with his wife Ann, his family, and friends at this difficult time.”

Spartans FC knocked Scottish Championship strugglers Arbroath out of The Scottish Gas Scottish Cup and their effort was rewarded with a plum draw against Capital side Hearts in the fourth round.

The match is due to be played on the weekend of Saturday, January 20 and the Tynecastle team travel to Ainslie Park to face a club formed in 1951 by former players of The University of Edinburgh.

Spartans are fourth in Scottish League two with 20 points from 13 starts, eight points adrift of leaders Stenhousemuir, but two points and a place above Bonnyrigg Rose who have played the same number of games. Rosey Posey host Falkirk who are top of Scottish League One with 33 points from 13 starts, three clear of second-placed Hamilton.

Hibs travel to Forfar Athletic, who are currently eighth in Scottish League Two with 12 points from 13 games and with only one league win in their last five starts and a goal difference of minus four, and cinch Premiership club Livingston host Raith Rovers, who are second in the Scottish Championship six points behind leaders Dundee United but with a game in hand.

Cup holders Celtic begin their defence at home to Highland League side Buckie Thistle who are fifth in their table and last year’s beaten finalists, Inverness Caldeonian Thistle, have been drawn at home against Dumbarton-based Broomhill from the Scottish Lowland Football League, the fifth tier of Scottish football.

The full draw is: Airdrie v St Johnstone; Ayr v Kelty Hearts; Bonnyrigg Rose v Falkirk; Brora Rangers v Cove Rangers; Celtic v Buckie Thistle; Clyde v Aberdeen; Dumbarton v Rangers; Forfar Athletic v Hibs; Greenock Morton v Montrose; Invernes Caldedonian Thistle v Broomhill; Kilmarnock v Dundee; Livingston v Raith Rovers; Motherwell v Alloa Athletic; Ross County v Partick Thistle; St Mirren v Queen of the South; The Spartans v Hearts.

PICTURE: Liam Boyce shoots for goal as Hearts edge St Johnstone. Picture Ian Jacobs

Foysol Choudhury MSP, Scottish Labour’s Spokesperson on Culture highlighted the importance of providing sustained funding for local community groups in the arts and culture sector.

The debate included discussion of the challenges faced, and opportunities to be found, in delivering a place-based approach to culture.

This followed the conclusions and recommendations made in the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee’s Report, Culture in Communities: The challenges and opportunities in delivering a place-based approach. The report found that the ongoing impact of budgetary challenges placed limits on the ability of cultural organisations to “deliver place-based and participatory cultural projects with communities”.

Mr Choudhury said: “Scotland’s cultural sector hangs in the balance, especially for community arts and culture organisations. 

“We need long-term funding for a successful place-based approach to culture in communities. 

“Without it, community organisations cannot plan ahead, commit to cultural events or ensure progress for culture in their communities.” 

The Lothians MSP said that whilst commitments from The Scottish Government to boost arts and culture funding by 2028 are welcome, key questions regarding sustained funding still remain, as he says was made clear by the committee’s report.

Earlier on Thursday, Mr Choudhury had used Portfolio Questions to ask The Scottish Government what action it is taking to help schools to support children who wish to pursue a career in the arts and culture sector. Mr Choudhury said that whilst the recent funding announcement of £6.68 million for the culture sector in 2023-24 was welcome, long-term and sustained funding for courses and qualifications must come hand in hand with this to ensure that the culture sector has the skills and talent it needs to be sustained.

Mr Choudhury wants a transfer of decision-making power back into the hands of local communities.

He said: “A place-based approach must acknowledge the unique cultural heritage and history of individual communities, giving them the sufficient funding and freedom to cultivate their own cultural landscapes in ways appropriate for their needs.  

 “We must recognise the multicultural heritage and make up of many communities across Scotland and work towards meeting the needs of the many, not the few.  

“Decentralisation will put decision making closer to home and give communities a choice in shaping the cultural life of their communities, helping to strengthen and improve multiculturalism and Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. ” 

Culture in Communities: The Challenges and Opportunities in Delivering a Place-Based Approach Report:

https://digitalpublications.parliament.scot/Committees/Report/CEEAC/2023/9/14/4c816e37-a817-4de7-b22e-4b4c924d81fd

The competitive tennis year is coming to a successful end for Matt Rankin, 19, from Edinburgh, as he adapts to life at his American university.

Matt, the 2022 Scottish junior player of the year, signed off by reaching the final of the doubles event in a $15,000 Futures tournament at Lansing, Michigan.

He was partnered by Alafia Ayeni, an American alumni of the same Kentucky university where Matt is studying Business and Economics.

Matt said:  “This was my last Futures tournament of the year and I wanted to finish on a high. So, it was good to reach the final of the doubles. We had a tough draw and had to beat the top seeds in the quarter finals – two Australians one of whom is ranked in the top 500 and won the NCAA doubles championships a couple of years ago.

“I met Alafia a few times when I visited the University before starting but we had never played together before the tournament in Michigan. 

“I feel my tennis is developing well as there are always good players to train with. The facilities are great and plenty of courts are available all the time allowing me to train or hit anytime I want. The coaches are always there for you and willing to help whenever you ask. The standard is exceptionally strong in the US College system.

“We train as a squad every morning from 8-10am then do fitness after that for 1-1.5 hours. We then do a more individual session later in the day to work on specific things with the coaches. Training happens Monday to Saturday. We have our classes in the afternoons and study and complete assignments in the evenings so days are long and tough.

“Kentucky is a huge sports school with an excellent tennis programme and fantastic coaches.

“I was very fortunate to have a number of options and it was an extremely tough decision choosing a school but Kentucky had everything I was looking for.”

One of several Scots in the USA college system – these include Jake Fearnley (Texas Christian University), Connor Thomson (South Carolina) and Euan Mackenzie (Delaware) while Vincent Gillespie is coaching at Wake Forest Uni in North Carolina – Matt  has found time to indulge in some local sporting culture.

“I’ve managed to get to quite a few American Football games at Kentucky (UK) with attendances of over 70,000. I’ve also managed to get to men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, softball and an ice hockey match.”

Matt will be back in Edinburgh for Christmas before returning for the start of the US College tennis campaign in January.

Edinburgh artist Damian Callan has a short exhibition of unusual paintings which runs until Tuesday at Dundas Street Gallery.

As well as being able to see the exhibition in person, you can also see what he has painted (and on what things…. including an OS map of eastern England) online. All works are available to buy from the artist.

• Damian Callan – Exhibition: Painting On Things
• Dundas Street Gallery, 6 Dundas Street, EH3 6HZ
• until 28th November 10 – 6pm

damian.callan@gmail.com

The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra brings a new programme of jazz master Duke Ellington’s music, In an Ellington Mood to the Queen’s Hall on Sunday 10 December.

The music of Ellington and his co-writer, Billy Strayhorn has become one of the SNJO’s specialisms and has earned the ensemble recognition internationally for faithful interpretations such as its enthusiastically received in-concert recording from 2012, In the Spirit of Duke.

In a break from the orchestra’s previous Ellington concerts, this latest celebration of Ellington’s genius will see the orchestra joined for part of each concert by the exceptional young vocalist Lucy-Anne Daniels.

Still in her early twenties, Leeds-born Daniels has already appeared at prestigious jazz venues including Ronnie Scott’s in London and Dizzy’s Jazz Club in New York and her background in gospel music is a particularly apt asset for singing Ellington’s songs.

“Duke Ellington has been a key figure in jazz for almost a hundred years,” says SNJO musical director, saxophonist Tommy Smith. “His music has been an inspiration across numerous eras, from providing the rhythm for dancers in the 1920s and popularising jazz during the swing era to playing with the then younger generation including Charles Mingus and John Coltrane in the 1960s and beyond. He continues to challenge and reward the young musicians who are emerging today.”

To deliver the authentic Ellington experience for its audience, the SNJO will again apply meticulous attention to period detail. This includes recreating the Ellington Orchestra stage set-up, showing the same sartorial elegance, using specially sourced period brass mutes and playing musical scores specially transcribed from Ellington concerts.

“We want to involve people in as close as possible to a genuine Ellington performance,” says Smith. “There are obvious differences in personnel, of course, but the intention is to make the music come alive similar to the way it blossomed whenever the Duke Ellington Orchestra rolled into town.”

https://www.thequeenshall.net/book/193401

Netball Scotland has announced the appointment of former EIFF boss Ken Hay as Interim Chief Executive Officer, on Monday for a one year term.

Ken Hay is described by his new employer as an “experienced leader with a rich and varied career leading people, organisations and sectors through challenge and change”. His expertise is considered pertinent as Netball Scotland aims to “forge a strong path forward in a rapidly evolving sports environment”.

Lucy Faulkner, Chair of Netball Scotland said: “Ken brings exactly the kind of strategic vision and operational excellence that Netball Scotland requires at this pivotal moment.

“His leadership is set to propel us towards achieving our ambitious objectives and enhancing our impact both on and off the court.”

Ken Hay said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Interim CEO at Netball Scotland. I am passionate about sport and the transformative impact it has for individuals and communities across the country. It’s a time of great potential for netball as a sport and this organisation, and I look forward to applying my experience in strategic development and change management in driving forward our mission.”

Netball Scotland believe that Ken brings with him a wealth of experience, “demonstrating his ability to drive strategic development, business growth, and operational excellence”. Mr Hay’s previous roles include leading the Edinburgh International Film Festival and Filmhouse Cinemas until the pandemic, Accountable Officer of Scottish Screen managing the transition to the establishment of Creative Scotland in 2010, and chairing sector bodies, Festivals Edinburgh and Culture Counts.

He is said to have a strong commitment to the principles of “diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI), fair work, and environmental sustainability”, values which resonate with the ethos of Netball Scotland.

Lucy Faulkner said: “Ken’s entrepreneurial approach and proven track record in leadership are what Netball Scotland needs to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. We are thrilled to have him on board.”

Netball Scotland is enthusiastic about the direction Ken will provide as the organisation continues to champion the growth of netball and its community throughout Scotland and convert its strategy ‘D27: Closing the Gap’ into reality.”

This week at the council

On Tuesday at 10am the council’s “audit” committee meets. It is called the Governance, Risk and Best Value Committee and it exists to oversee what the council is doing. The convener is an opposition politician.

The papers are here with details of how to join the webcast.

There is little else happening except the usual planning meetings and then a meeting of the Edinburgh and South East City Region Deal Joint Committee. All of the surrounding local authorities are involved in this funding deal involving both the UK and the Scottish Governments including the building of the new concert hall between St James Quarter and St Andrew Square. This is now underway with calls upon the local authority in Edinburgh to pay more than the first agreed £5 million due to spiralling building costs.

Infrasisters

On Friday night the Infrasisters will ride the city streets…calling for better cycling infrastructure for cyclists – and women cyclists in particular.

Read more here about why you might join them.

Fitness Open Day

There is an open day at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre on Saturday 2 December when you can try before you buy.

More details here.

Billboards

A heads up that from 11 – 17 December 2023 artworks by Scottish Barbadian artist Alberta Whittle are to be exhibited across Edinburgh on a series of large scale billboards and advertising spaces as part of BUILDHOLLYWOOD’s UK-wide ‘All About Love’ commission curated by Zarina Rossheart. The public art project celebrates the legacy of All About Love, the seminal text by cultural critic, feminist theorist and author bell hooks. The exhibition with Alberta Whittle is staged in collaboration with the National Galleries of Scotland.

Against the backdrop of political and social turbulence, Alberta invites us to come together to confront difficult truths from both the past and our present times, in order to find collective healing. Often drawing on profoundly personal materials, poetic imagery, and intimate stories, Alberta’s message is ultimately one of hope; hope for a different future, and a call for us to ‘invest in love’.

The works in this outdoor exhibition, taking place at 12 locations in Edinburgh include Market Street, Newhaven, Haymarket and Leith. They are drawn from original watercolours featured in Alberta Whittle’s largest solo exhibition to date at the National Galleries of Scotland. Free to visit, Alberta Whittle: create dangerously is open at Modern One until 7th January 2024.

December issue

It is already the last week of November and we are working hard on producing the December edition of our newspaper.

If you have any last minute stories for us then wing them to us immediately. And if you would like to make sure of your own copy of the paper then please sign up.

Please do subscribe to our monthly newspaper if you can – we deliver by mail in compostable envelopes, and the subscription helps us to keep on bringing you the news for free. So far this year we have produced these ten issues.

Sign up here.

Property experts bring 16 years of experience to their top legal team.

A city law firm has appointed a new Legal Director to support its surge in growth across its legal services.

Gibson Kerr has appointed Jamie Robertson to join the firm’s property department strengthening the company’s residential conveyancing team in Edinburgh.

Jamie makes the move from the firm Blackadders LLP, where he worked his way from Senior Solicitor to Legal Director in just three and a half years.

The Aberdonian studied law at Robert Gordon University attaining a number of academic awards during his time there and is still involved with the university, tutoring the next wave of budding lawyers.

Qualifying in 2014, Jamie brings with him extensive knowledge of the property sector, with more than a decade of experience in the industry and is particularly skilled in all aspects of residential conveyancing.

Jamie said: “There was a real synergy to what I was looking for and what Gibson Kerr are striving towards. They have a clear plan and strategy which is coupled with a real hunger to succeed. It made for a really attractive prospect for me.”

“Gibson Kerr have recently recruited a host of talented new staff and the firm has ambitions for expansion. To be at a firm that has such an appetite makes complete sense to me and I am happy to bring my experience to the table to help Gibson Kerr flourish.”

Jamie’s enthusiasm for the industry doesn’t stop at 5pm. He has even set up his own TikTok account, ‘propertylawyerjamie’, to discuss notable updates and trends, as well as cutting through the legalese behind  property work.

Jamie’s appointment follows news of Gibson Kerr adding five new members of staff to its personal law and family law departments as the firm eyes up expansion opportunities.

Scott Rasmusen, Managing Partner and Head of Propertyat Gibson Kerr said: “Jamie has the perfect blend of experience, knowledge and management skills that we’re looking for and we are sure he will add an abundance of value to our growing team.

“By adding fresh talent to our Edinburgh and Glasgow bases, we’re building strong foundations for continued growth. These are certainly exciting times for Gibson Kerr and we expect our clients to benefit from the skills and professionalism of our talented team.”

Gibson Kerr dates back more than 100 years and was acquired by Partners Scott and Fiona Rasmusen in 2005. Fiona is Head of Family Law, Partner Lindsay Maclean, who joined the firm in 2007, is Head of Personal Law, and the Property team is headed by Scott Rasmusen.

https://www.gibsonkerr.co.uk/

Elite League: Cardiff Devils 6, Fife Flyers 0

Fife Flyers’ winning run skidded to a halt when they were shutout at Cardiff Devils. The Kirkcaldy club kept the game tight for the first two periods, losing both 1-0, but the flood gates opened in the third.

And the Scots were outshot 49-20 on the night.

It took Devils 7min 19sec to open their account when Cole Ully netted but it was not until the 33rd minute that the home side went 2-0 up, Cole Sanford scoring.

The scoreline stayed the same until the second break but Devils added to their total 46 seconds into the final session, Ully scoring his second.

Joey Martin added No 4 less than three minutes later and Ully completed his treble for 5-0 with less than seven minutes remaining.

And the home side, cheered on by over 3,000 fans in the Vindico Arena, added the sixth from Joshua Waller with under three minutes left.

PICTURE: Jillian McFarlane captured this moment as Fife entertained Manchester on Saturday. Picture courtesy of the Elite League

The new production at the Lyceum adds a Scottish twist to the classic fairytale

There’s no better antidote to a dark and gloomy winter’s night than huddling together in the warm glow of live theatre. This year the Lyceum has a brilliant new production of the Snow Queen to offer cheer in the Edinburgh chill; a proper old good-versus-evil fairytale, brought to the stage with sparkle and style.

The enduring classic from Hans Christian Andersen follows Gerda on a perilous journey north to save her best pal Kei from the evil clutches of the Snow Queen – who may be wicked but rocks her costumes with dazzling icy glamour. Gerda soon learns she doesn’t just have to save Kei, but foil the Snow Queen’s dastardly plan and save the whole of humanity from the grips of an eternal winter. Not exactly a simple job, but Gerda is a resilient sort, fiercely loyal to her friend, and takes to the quest with determination and gusto. We are rooting for her as she flies, sails, skis and rides her way across magical lands, meeting all sorts of curious characters who help or hinder her along the way.

The Snow Queen has inspired countless retellings, most famously Disney’s Frozen, but it seems very much at home in the Scottish setting of this new adaptation from writer Morna Young. The landscapes, both menacing and full of wonder, are easy to re-imagine as the Scottish Highlands. The people are spirited and hardy as they struggle against adversity and some terrible weather. It’s re-told in Scots language too, exploring different dialects which adds an interesting dimension to the story.

There is a lot of talent on display in this production. The set itself is a joy to the eyes, beautifully wrapping the theatre auditorium around the stage to transform it seamlessly into the Snow Queen’s Palace, and all the magical lands in-between.

The musical score steps in perfectly to add zing to the drama. There’s everything in there, from the big singalong numbers to a big-licks, rock guitar sword fight and a heart-wrenching cello solo from imprisoned Kei (with Sebastian Lim-Seet frighteningly convincing as the tortured captive). There are some powerful scenes where music, movement and lights come together perfectly. It may be a classic tale but the creative team have added a generous dash of rock and roll spirit to this production – even Corbie the crow has a whiff of German industrial metal in his manner. From acting to costumes, music and staging, it’s a strong collective effort but you can sense the influence of Director Cora Bisset at the helm, star of the huge Fringe hit “What Girls Are Made of”.

On the critical side, the story does take a little while to get going as the stage is set. There are some moments in the first half when it feels a little tinny, lacking in the big show ‘oomph’ that it promises to deliver – like listening to an epic song with the speakers unplugged. The various Scots accents and dialects can be a bit grating at times and some of the jokes are just a little too cheesy to land – but then that’s all part of the DNA of a Christmas family show.

The production really hits its stride and takes off into the stratosphere after the interval. Be prepared for lots of magical surprises, great music and a cheeky double-entendre packed performance from Hamish the Unicorn, bringing it all back into the fun zone.

All in all this is great theatre and a splendid new production of a family favourite. Even the most cynical of Christmas critics will be unable to leave the show without cracking a smile or two. Do yourself a favour, get out of the cold for a few hours and wrap yourself in the warm embrace of this magical story.

Catch the Snow Queen at the Lyceum Theatre until 31 December. Book tickets at https://lyceum.org.uk/events/the-snow-queen-23-24

Christmas shopping is in full swing in Edinburgh as you can see from these photos showing people out picking presents for their loved ones ahead of Christmas.

This Black Friday weekend shoppers were taking advantage of any bargains to be snapped up to make the last wages before Christmas go a little further.

Winter is coming. More specifically, the winter solstice is coming.

The word ‘solstice’ derives from the Latin portmanteau Sol (Sun) and sistere (to stand still) as the Sun appears to pause at its lowest point in the winter sky (in the northern hemisphere). The solstice occurs on 22 December at 3:27 am and represents the first day of astronomical winter. In Edinburgh and Lothian the Sun will rise to an altitude of 10.7° at solar noon (12:11 pm local time) on the day itself and you will cast your longest shadow of the year at that time. The shortest day of the year lasts 06:58 (h:m) at our location. More importantly, the evening of 22 December lasts 17:02 (h:m) from sunset through sunrise with 12:16 (h:m) of astronomical dark time (when the Sun is more than 18° below the horizon). Things are topsy-turvy in the southern hemisphere, of course: at their solstice, the Sun will be directly overhead the Tropic of Capricorn at −23.44° latitude and represent the first day of summer.

The Sun starts the month in Ophiuchus and enters Sagittarius on 18 December at 10:44 am. The keen-eyed reader will note that the Sun isn’t in Capricornus at the solstice but Sagittarius. This is because the astronomical co-ordinate system is not fixed in space but moves at a rate of approximately 1° every 71.6 years so the constellations appear to shift position (albeit very slowly). In fact, the Sun will not return to Capricornus for the solstice for another 24,000 years!

Daylight shortens from 07:25 (7.424 hours) on 1 December to 07:03 (7.058 hours) on 31 December so we gain 22 minutes of night time by the end of the month … but that, also, is not the whole story: we actually gain 28 minutes of night time up to the solstice (when the days get shorter) and then lose 6 minutes afterwards (when the days get longer). But wait, there’s more … the earliest sunset of the year is on 14 December at 3:38 pm and the latest sunrise of the year is on 29 December at 8:44 am.

Lunar apogee (furthest from Earth) occurs on 4 December at 6:42 pm and takes the Moon to 404,306 km away from Earth—around 19,906 km further than average—subtending an angle of 29.5 arcminutes. The Moon enters last quarter on 5 December at 5:49 am in Leo. The new moon appears on 12 December at 11:32 pm in Ophiuchus beginning a new synodic (Lunar) month. Lunar perigee (closest to Earth) on 16 December at 6:45 pm finds the Moon some 367,930 km away from Earth— around 16,470 km closer than average—subtending an angle of 32.5 arcminutes. The first quarter of the new cycle shows up on 19 December at 6:39 pm in Pisces. Late in the month, the full Cold Moon makes an appearance on 27 December at 0:33 am in Gemini.

For the inferior planets, Mercury is a strange cove in December as we can identify 7 events in the attached emphemeris none of which are visible from Edinburgh and Lothian because Mercury remains a stubbornly day-time object! We fare better with Venus which still stands out as the ‘morning star’ averaging -4.1 mag (over the month) a couple of hours (or more) before sunrise. It crosses over from Virgo at the start of the month (close to the star Spica), then passes through Libra and edges into Scorpio for the new year.

For the superior planets: Mars is unobservable as, like Mercury, it falls within the Sun’s glare all month. Jupiter, around -2.6 mag, is visible all evening, overnight and sets in the pre-dawn in Aries. It returns to a direct orbit from retrograde in the wee hours of Hogmanay. Saturn, around 0.9 mag, has good visibility in Aquarius, and will pass the meridian shortly after astronomical twilight ends and sets before midnight. Uranus, steady at 5.7 mag, remains in the evening, overnight and pre-dawn sky with excellent visibility in Aries. Neptune, south of Pisces’ circlet during meridian passing (due south) in the early evening, loses altitude as the month progresses. It does return to a direct orbit on 6 December and reaches eastern quarature on 17 December at 3:43 am, when the angle between Sun, Earth and planet equals 90°.

There are 3 (2-body) solar system conjunctions (< 5° apart) visible from Edinburgh and Lothian during December. First, Venus will be in conjunction with the waning crescent Moon beginning on 9 December at 5:59 am and approaches closer as the Sun rises but visibility diminishes dramatically. On 17 December at 4:19 pm, Saturn and the Moon will begin a conjunction, getting closer as both set. On the day of the solstice, the Moon and Jupiter will also be exiting conjunction and best viewed after astronomical twilight whilst both are still rising.

There is a Christmas comet for 2023: 62P/Tsuchinshan, a short-period comet discovered in Nanking in 1965, reaches perihelion on 25 December at 2:36 am and could brighten to 9.0 mag. At that magnitude is may be visible with binoculars. Look near the hind-leg of Leo near M65 on our skymap. December also hosts 2 meteor showers: the glorious Geminids and the less than glorious Ursids.

The highly anticipated Geminids, radiant from Gemini (The Twins), are active 4–17 December and peak on 14–15 December for Edinburgh and Lothian. The radiant point is near the star Castor, one of the heads of the Gemini twins. They are viewable after astronomical twilight ends (around 6 pm) for the next 12 hours and reach high altitude so observability is excellent and they can produce up to 150 meteors per hour! The parent body is not a comet but the asteroid 3200 Phaethon and was the first asteroid discovered by satellite in 1983.

The Ursids, radiant from Ursa Minor (The Little Bear), are a poor show compared to the Gemi- nids but will peak on 22–23 December and are circumpolar so viewable all night. Look near the star Kochab and expect, maybe, 10 shooting stars per hour. The parent comet is 8P/Tuttle discovered in 1858.

Winter is a rewarding time—if the sky is clear, of course—to identify some constellations. The easiest way to do this is using bright stars. Polaris, the pole star, should be easy to spot due north at an altitude above the horizon equal to your latitude, some 55.95°. That should be enough to pick out Ursa Minor (The Little Bear) and this constellation is circumpolar (never sets below the horizon) so is always visible above Edinburgh and Lothian. After you locate Polaris at the time of our skymap, turn around 180° and there should be the highly visible constellation of Orion (The Hunter) easily identified by the 3 stars that line up to make the ‘Belt of Orion’ plus the outlying stars Betelgeuse and Rigel. Orion is also a useful pointer to other celestial objects. Below Orion’s belt is the famous nebula, M42. Follow the belt to intercept the bright star Aldebaran in Taurus (The Bull) and, further along the same path, the ‘seven sisters’ star cluster known as the Pleiades (M45). Following the belt in the opposite direction leads to Canis Major (The Great Dog) and the sky’s brightest star, Sirius (The Dog Star). See if you can spot bright stars in other constellations such as Capella in Auriga (The Charioteer), Procyon in Canis Minor (The Little Dog) and Regulus in Leo (The Lion).

At the time of our skymap, the ecliptic (marked by the dashed green line) hosts Leo (The Lion), Cancer (The Crab), Gemini (The Twins), Taurus (The Bull), Aries (The Ram) and Pisces (The Fishes). Circumpolar constellations—always above the horizon—include Cassiopeia (The Seated Queen), Draco (The Dragon), Ursa Minor (The Little Bear), Ursa Major (The Great Bear) and Cepheus (The King).

A tourist tax could cost Midlothian Council more to operate than it will bring in each year, a new report has revealed.

The visitors levy, which could mean that people charged £2 for every overnight stay, is being considered by local authorities in the South East region with The City of Edinburgh Council leading the way.

However a report to Midlothian’s members yesterday said while Edinburgh could be looking at revenue of up to £14million from an annual charge, Midlothian Council is likely to bring in around £180,000.

And it warned administration costs to operate the tax could cost between £190,000 to £500,000 a year.

Officers told councillors that currently Midlothian is not at ‘visitor capacity’.

It said the county currently has an opportunity to benefit from neighbouring Edinburgh City Council’s policy to refuse licences for short term lets in tenement properties, and should ‘realise an opportunity to increase accommodation demand and provision in Midlothian’.

But it warned introducing a visitors levy on its own would cost more than it would bring in saying: “major tourist hubs such as Edinburgh City attract high volumes of visitors annually, drawn by multiple factors including rich history and cultural attractions.

“The implementation of a Visitor Levy in these areas can yield substantial revenue for needed infrastructure improvements. However, Midlothian experiences a significantly lower volume of overnight stays, the revenue generated from a Visitor Levy in Midlothian would be considerably lower and may not sufficiently justify the associated administrative costs.”

Officers said neighbouring councils had discussed introducing a region wide levy system which would share the costs and burdens increasing the chance of everyone making a profit.

However they said Edinburgh City Council was not keen on the regional model.

Figures for the councils in the South East Scotland region showed Midlothian stood to make the lowest potential revenue from a levy at £196,000 annually, followed by West Lothian who could bring in £285,000.

Edinburgh in contrast could expect over £14million followed by Fife making £3.85million, Scottish Borders £2.5million and East Lothian just over £1million a year.

Midlothian councillors agreed keep a watching brief of Edinburgh’s progress with the visitors levy before making a decision on its value in the county.

They also agreed to a consultation being launched by their economic development team with local tourism and hospitality in the future when the ability to introduce a levy becomes law next year.

Ian Gardner, chair of Midlothian Tourism Forum, welcomed the approach by the council.

He said: “I welcome this decision by councillors to take a considered approach to any potential visitor levy and to commit to further consultation on the issue in due course.

” Midlothian Tourism Forum will support our members to participate in the local consultation to ensure that the impacts and implications of a proposed levy are fully taken into account before final decisions are taken.”

by Marie Sharp, Local Democracy Reporter

The best of jazz will be played and lunch served every Sunday at Le Petit Beefbar, with the initial line up including Glaswegian sax player Konrad Wiszniewski who has previously serenaded the Queen and joined Labrinth on his UK tour.

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh has brought ‘The Nutcracker’ to life with its festive makeover.

The restaurant and bar at St James Quarter has been transformed into a festive Christmas stage complete with Nutcracker displays and nostalgic seasonal fixtures. The display includes giant Nutcrackers to trees with sugar plum fairies, candy canes, ballet slippers and other surprises in signature gold and red brand colours to vintage toy boxes, wrapped presents and a balloon installation designed in collaboration with florist Lesley Strachan, Thrill Events and The Nutcracker Christmas Shop.

At the bar guests can toast the season with limited-edition festive Makers Mark cocktails including Mistletoe Martini with Maker’s Mark, Kahlúa, Crème de Cacao and espresso, Naughty or Spice mulled wine, Holiday Cheer Iced Tea for two or a Duck & Waffle Old Fashioned with duck fat washed Maker’s Mark, orange and cranberry syrup and bitters.

Culinary Director Daniel Barbosa and Executive Chef Lucia Gregusova will present a specially curated 4-course Christmas Day menu made with traditional ingredients to celebrate the season featuring Shetland Coast Crab Chowder with toasted sourdough, Isle of Mule Scallop with buttered brioche, pink peppercorns, Amalfi lemon and tarragon, Whole Roasted Bronze Turkey served with all the trimmings, Roast Halibut with boulangère potatoes, beurre blanc, trout caviar and for dessert Sherry Trifle with Pedro Ximénez jelly, vanilla custard, Chantilly cream and candied almonds.

https://duckandwaffle.com/edinburgh/menu/christmas-day-menu-2023/

You can also celebrate Hogmanay at Duck & Waffle Edinburgh. Guests will enjoy a glass of Champagne to toast the bells accompanied with a chef curated menu offering an indulgent four courses for £75 per person. Guests can dine at any time starting from 5pm on 31 December at an event which will include live performance and DJs as the clock counts down to midnight and a bar open until 1am. 

For more information on NYE and to book visit: https://duckandwaffle.com/edinburgh/whats-on/nye-edb-2023/

Bookings are now open.

Teemu Pulkinnen slotted after 29 minutes to secure a confidence-boosting 2-1 victory for Fife Flyers over high-flying Manchester Storm in Kirkcaldy.

The Finnish star was set-up by Johan Eriksson on the power play as Matt Murphy sat in the sin bin on a slashing call.

And it completed a turn around as Fife were 1-0 down after 17 minutes when Michael Korol slotted.

They levelled six minutes later through Collin Shirley who was assisted by Pulkkinen and Troy Lajeunesse.

The result came despite Fife being outshot 41-28 and it ended a disappointing 24-hours for Storm who lost 4-1 at Dundee Stars on Friday night.

Other scores: Coventry Blaze 4, Dundee Stars 2; Belfast Giants 5, Glasgow Clan 1.

Sunday’s fixtures: Glasgow Clan v Manchester Storm (17.00); Cardiff Devils v Fife Flyers (18.00)

PICTURE: Dundee Stars v Manchester Storm by Derek Black courtesy of the Elite League

French tourism continue to publicise the country as the holiday booking season approaches and Antibes Juan-les-Pins has the distinction of being home to five of the 30 top five-star hotels in the Cote d’Azur.

One of them is Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2020 with a new concept in restaurants. It gained a Michelin star in 2021 for its new restaurant, Louroc, and a hardback book on the history of the establishment, “Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc : A Timeless Legend on the French Riviera” by Alexandra Campbell was published in April 2021.

Then a new perfume, the Eden-Roc fragrance by Dior – inspired by the hotel – was launched in May 2021 and since April 2023 the hotel has partnered with Dior to open a multi-faceted spa which is open to external customers in the morning.

The secret to success, according to Philippe Perd, the general manager, lies in ensuring that the customers perceive every staff member as a maître de maison.

Another of the top establishments is Hôtel Juana, set in an Art-Deco building which dates from 1927 and was designed by architect Georges Dikansky, this building became a hotel in 1931.

Hôtel Belles Rives is another and decorator Olivier Antoine was entrusted seven years ago with the task of giving a new look to the Michelin-star restaurant La Passagère. The Belles Rives hotel is also listed as a historical monument as the Fitzgerald piano bar, renovated in 2023, it is part of the exclusive circle of Cafés Historiques & Patrimoniaux d’Europe.

The sleek lines of the Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel are said to blend in with the scenery. It was designed by the company Brante-Vollenweider and is composed of 35 rooms, Michelin-star restaurant Les Pêcheurs and the outdoor bar restaurant renamed BABA.

The Hôtel Impérial Garoupe is a residence said to have a great deal of character and it situated at the heart of Cap d’Antibes. It has 30 rooms, four suites, one apartment and one private villa.

PICTURE: Antibes and Juan-les-Pins from the air

Lawrence Shankland netted for the sixth time in the same number of matches for Hearts to earn the Tynecastle team a narrow 1-0 victory over St Johnstone.

The strike after 61 minutes came from a deflection following a Liam Boyce shot, but the three points secured a third straight league win and confirmed Hearts in fourth place in teh 12-strong cinch Premiership.

The Jambos move on to 20 points from 13 starts and remain two points behind St Mirren who beat Livingston 1-0 at Paisley thanks to a Kelly own goal after 37 minutes, but the reverse was a jolt for St Johnstone and their new manager Craig Levein, a former Hearts player, manager and director of football.

The Perth side slip to 11th place having accumulated 11 points, one more than bottom club, Livingston, who have played a game more, with their first defeat in four and the first reverse since Levein took over.

Earlier, Hearts opened brightly, playing high tempo football, and Saints goalkeeper Dimitar Motiv saved twice to deny the eager Jambos, but Saints weathered the storm and Heats goalkeeper Zander Clark, a former St Johnstone player, was forced into two saves. One, in particular, from Luke Robinson close range, was worthy of mention.

But Hearts were dangerous on the break with Boyce and on-loan Alex Lowry both having opportunities but they failed to make them count.

Overall, Hearts had 60 per cent of possession and registered four shots on target with their rivals having three.

Next for Hearts is a trip to Kilmarnock next Saturday (15.00) while St Johnstone host Celtic on Sunday week (12.00).

Hearts’ head coach, Steven Naismith, told BBC Scotland Sport: “We could and should have scored more goals but overall it was really good.”

PICTURE: Lawrence Shankland in training by Nigel Duncan

A crackdown on gift shops on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile operated in properties owned by the council has been backed by a city councillor who says they make him feel “embarrassed” when walking down the historic street.

A discussion over the authority’s powers to dictate how its tenants use commercial units was sparked during a meeting after Marco Biagi proposed not renewing the lease for a gift shop on the High Street.

The decision has now been delayed until January so the legal implications of the move can be investigated.

The SNP councillor said he supported measures to control the proliferation of traders selling souvenirs and trinkets around the city centre – complaining the capital’s “window on the world has a see you Jimmy hat in it”.

Officials said if the council went down the route of using its ownership of commercial properties to dictate what they sell there would be “consequences, particularly financial ones”.

The Royal Mile, where Edinburgh Council owns 46 units, has become awash with gift shops in the last 20 years as rental prices have shot up.

A routine decision to extend the lease of one located at 46 High Street went before the Finance and Resources Committee. A report proposed a 25-year extension of the deal between the council and the Gold Brothers, who run a number of such stores around the Old Town, but with the annual rent increased from £54,600 to £62,400 per annum.

Cllr Biagi said: “The report invites us to approve a 25-year lease extension on the terms outlined therein. Legally and financially, what happens if we don’t?”

After being told this would mean the lease would expire at the end of September next year, he recalled former city centre councillor David Beckett “having serious issues with the proliferation of gift shops on the Royal Mile.

“He and I at that point, myself in a different capacity, were supportive of measures to try and control that. I do note that the strategy states…that local authorities holding an investment portfolio can provide the council with an element of control and influence such as the Royal Mile where the council owns a significant number of commercial properties.”

He asked officials whether it would be competent for the council to seek to “use our portfolio of properties in an area to build a sense of place in that area”.

In response estates manager Peter Watton said the council needed to be “consistent with our tenants across the piece”. 

He said if an existing tenant, respective of who they are, have fulfilled all their obligations set out in a lease they are offered an extension. Mr Watton said the reality was “the man drives the market”. 

He said any action toward changing how the properties were used would have to be part of a “wider debate about the control in relation to the uses that are on the Royal Mile”. 

He said: “If we go down the route of using our ownership to dictate that it has consequences, particularly financial ones.

“What’s happened over time is you’ve seen this change from kind of bespoke offerings of retail, and it started with the coffee shops – when Starbucks moved into the corner of Hunter Square and paid a huge rent the ripple effect of that for the coming years was significant in terms of rental values on the Royal Mile.

“And then came the tartan traders. It always was there but it wasn’t the spike we experienced I suppose maybe 15, 16 years ago that we see today and everything that seems that became available on the Royal Mile. 

“Operators had the ability to outbid other potential users because of the return they could make from what they were doing.”

Mr Watton said the council was “not trying to justify the retail mix on the Royal Mile” but pointed out its leases “do not control what you can and can’t sell”. 

Cllr Biagi proposed rejecting the Gold Brothers’ lease extension but withdrew his position after Labour convener Mandy Watt suggested postponing the decision until January to obtain legal advice.

The committee backed this by seven votes to four with the Conservatives and Lib Dems voting to approve the lease.

After the meeting Cllr Biagi told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I want to walk down the Royal Mile and not feel embarrassed.

“It’s probably the most visited street in Scotland but right now our window on the world has a see you Jimmy hat in it.”

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Adam Cusack says that getting Buddy Dog, Sam, is “the best thing we’ve ever done”.

The 20-year-old from Musselburgh lives with sight loss and other health conditions, and he was assisted by Guide Dogs UK and the players of the People’s Postcode Lottery in the life-changing move. Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised more than £6 million for Guide Dogs since 2018, helping them transform lives through numerous projects and services just like the Buddy Dogs’ service.

Adam now has an incredible companion and he is said to have flourished, growing in confidence and independence.

When Adam was three years old, he contracted Meningitis, a rare, combined strain of Haemophilus Influenza B and D. He was put in an induced coma for two weeks to aid his recovery, but incurred a brain injury which impacted his optic nerve. He lost 25% of his eyesight on the bottom left quadrant of each eye and suffers other conditions, such as epilepsy, as a result.

Growing up, Adam adapted well to his sight loss. But, despite that, his conditions impacted his life, and from the ages of around 10 to 17, he became more insular and isolated.

His family heard about the Guide Dogs’ Buddy Dog service which matches children, young people and families with a dog.

Buddy dogs are former trainee guide dogs that have had a career change. They are pet dogs who support children and young people in building confidence and trust and provide companionship. During the time that Adam’s family applied for a buddy dog, the service was fully funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

In December 2021, when Adam was aged 18, Guide Dogs introduced the family to yellow Labrador cross golden retriever Sam. There was an immediate bond between Adam and Sam. Frank, Adam’s dad, said: “Having Sam has transformed every facet of our family. Adam has a dog he looks after, which has increased his confidence and independence.”

In 2022, Adam suffered a health setback. His condition caused several seizures, which compromised his central nervous system. He was in severe pain, needing hospital treatment, and was confined to a wheelchair for a couple of months. During this time, Sam would rest his head on Adam to try and comfort him. Frank said, “Without Sam’s friendship throughout that period, Adam would be significantly more damaged. Sam provides an emotional point for Adam to anchor himself to. And physically, he’s also better off now being more mobile.”

Adam said: “He’s changed my life for the better. When I was unwell, he helped by just being there for me and comforting me. We always say that getting Sam is the best thing we’ve ever done.”

Robbie Campbell, Buddy Dog Service Lead at Guide Dogs commented, “The bond between Adam and Sam has been incredible from the start. Sam has really supported Adam through some difficult times, which has been great for his physical and mental wellbeing. Having Sam has bought a lot of laughter to the family life.”

Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We are delighted that players have been able to support such a wonderful Guide Dogs service. It’s great to know that buddy dogs provide children and young people with sight loss like Adam much-needed emotional support and build confidence and trust at such a crucial stage in their lives.”