The Christmas Pop-up is now open at Art & Craft Collective.

The Edinburgh Boiler Company (EBC) is expanding with the creation of a dedicated air source heat pump division which will create up to 15 jobs in the coming year due to rising demand for renewable sources of heating.

Graeme Porter has been appointed as operations manager to lead the new arm of the business as the firm increases its focus on transitioning towards more sustainable heating solutions.

A former area heating manager for Polypipe and business development manager for PDM in East Kilbride, he arrives from Richmonds Plumbing & Heating Merchants in the capital where he was technical sales manager.

Tranent-based Porter will oversee every part of EBC’s heat pump operations, managing a team of surveyors, installers, and office staff to ensure that EBC’s customers experience the highest standards of service, from the initial inquiry through to project completion.

He will also play a pivotal role in ensuring that EBC meets all the necessary MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) standards, solidifying the company’s reputation for quality and reliability in the renewable energy sector.

He said: “I’ve been working in the industry since 1990 and am delighted to have joined such a progressive and fast-paced company at what is a key time for the sector.

“I’ve joined a strong team and there is a real feelgood factor in the company. Coming in at the start and being able to build and lead the heat pump division is a really exciting opportunity for me, particularly with so much funding being made available by Home Energy Scotland.”

EBC’s operations director Dougie Bell said: “We are well positioned to become a prominent player in the heat pump industry and are delighted to have Graeme as part of the team.

“His role is integral to our ongoing expansion and as the demand for heat pumps grows, he will work closely with our leadership team to identify areas requiring additional recruitment which will allow us to adapt accordingly.

“Sustainable energy solutions will not just be a preference in the future but a necessity and thanks to his unparalleled understanding of heat pumps, I’m confident Graeme will help drive the business forward.”

https://theedinburghboilercompany.com/renewables/

Public sector organisations across Scotland are being invited to attend an event that will share vital information on a major framework geared towards improving the safety of social housing and public buildings.

Taking place at the Scottish Procurement Alliance’s (SPA) headquarters in Livingston on 23 November, those attending will gain vital information about the new framework that launched in September this year.

SPA’s new framework aims to support public sector organisations in safeguarding their buildings, covering a range of works like asbestos removal, gas works, fire safety and water hygiene.

Known as the Asset Safety and Compliance (ASC1) framework, SPA’s 120+ partners will learn how the framework can help them meet government regulations and initiatives in the most cost-effective way.

Lesley Anderson, Regional Director at SPA, Scotland’s largest free to join procurement organisation said: “There is a huge mountain to climb for the public sector right now. With major government targets looming, it’s important we are bringing valuable and accessible frameworks to the fore at the right times.

“The timing of this framework has aligned perfectly with ongoing consultations on social housing regulation in Scotland and its very much at the forefront of our partner’s minds.

“With rising inflation and broader cost pressures stemming from rent freezes, contractor sustainability issues, slowing private housing sales due to mortgage rates, and increased demand for social housing, public sector organisations face significant challenges ensuring their buildings comply with safety and property protection regulations.”

“By bringing together life safety and property protection requirements, as well as maintenance needs, this framework is designed to enable public bodies to achieve compliance at scale while achieving the best value for money.”

ASC1 consolidates three existing frameworks and encompasses five critical public sector safety and compliance workstreams.

It will run until 3 September 2027 and is valued at up to £100 million in England, £20 million in Scotland and £15 million in Wales.

The latest framework covers five workstreams including asbestos consultancy and removal, property protection and associated services, water testing, treatment, and management, heating and air conditioning compliance and electrical testing and services.

Lesley added: “Theres been a host of field research and insight analysis from our regional business units across the UK to help shape this framework and we’ve been working closely with specialist suppliers and public organisations in Scotland from the outset to get the right end product.

“By incorporating what we’ve learned from on-the-ground studies as well as gaining an understanding of local and regional requirements, we’re certain this framework delivers the best possible results for the construction industry as well as communities across Scotland.

“The launch event will offer a brilliant chance to learn more about the framework and the suppliers that have been awarded a place. With presentations offering valuable information on essential aspects of housing and building compliance requirements, delivered by the framework suppliers.

“The presentations will cover asbestos, property protection, water safety, HVAC and electrical with the aim of helping asset managers and building owners understand their responsibilities.

“We want to give partners the information they need on this framework so they can take full advantage of it and help keep social housing and public buildings in Scotland as safe and secure as possible.”

As a committed not-for-profit organisation, SPA reinvests its surpluses into local communities through its Community Benefit Fund (CBF), in partnership with the dedicated charity Lintel Trust.

SPA currently has more than 600 active projects valued at £1.1 billion, benefiting the 300 suppliers that offer works and services to its associates.

Additionally, these partners have complimentary access to a range of value-added services, such as expert technical, procurement, and social value advisory support.

Since 2017, the CBF has distributed more than £1.7 million in grants and matching funds, assisting community groups, charities, and various causes. This initiative has generated a social value exceeding £3.9 million.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/asc1-framework-launch-partner-invitation-tickets-743400319367

Social Print and Copy CIC (SP&C), the Edinburgh-based social enterprise, has become the latest accredited Living Hours employer in Scotland.

Living Hours accreditation requires employers to pay the real Living Wage to all their employees over the age of 18 and commit to providing at least four weeks’ notice for every shift, with guaranteed payment if shifts are cancelled within this notice period.

Living Hours employers also provide a guaranteed minimum of 16 hours every week (unless the worker requests otherwise), and a contract that accurately reflects hours worked.

SP&C, a gold partner at this week’s SCVO-organised The Gathering, the largest free voluntary sector event in the UK being staged at the EICC, is helping lead digital change in Scotland by providing technology solutions through its community well-being programme.

It is also a trusted training platform and expanded earlier this year with the opening of a new Glasgow hub where it hopes to create up to 30 new jobs by 2025.

The firm, which was shortlisted in the Tech For Good category at the recent Social Enterprise Awards Scotland, has been an accredited Living Wage employer since 2021 and the new recognition underlines the company’s commitment to setting standards for fair work.

The announcement comes as the country marks the start of Living Wage week and Ian Gray, SP&C chief executive, said: “I’m very pleased to now have Living Hours accreditation as this is something we have been aligned to since the inception of the company four years ago.

“We pride ourselves on our values at Social Print & Copy and it’s important for us to deliver not just the minimum wage but the living wage or above for our employees.

“Part of what we wanted to do was deliver fair work, space, skills and remuneration for people as they come through their training so they don’t have to worry about the monetary aspect outwith coming to work.”

Claire Brownlie, SP&C’s finance and office manager said: “Although Social Print & Copy has always provided regular hours that haven’t changed, it is of great security to me as an employee that this cannot be changed from one week to the next. This makes me feel even more a part of the Social Print & Copy family.”

Living Wage Scotland was established in April 2014 by the Poverty Alliance, the national anti-poverty network in Scotland, with the aim of increasing the number of employers in Scotland who are recognised for paying their staff the real Living Wage.

It is a partnership with the Living Wage Foundation and is funded by the Scottish Government.

Recent research published by the Living Wage Foundation showed that over 9% of workers in Scotland (approximately 250,000) are in insecure work and paid below the Living Wage.

The Living Hours standard was created to ensure that people have predictable working patterns and income, enabling them to better plan their lives.

Christine McCaig, Living Wage Scotland’s Projects Co-Ordinator, said: “There are over 3000 Scottish-based employers that are committed to paying at least the real Living Wage, and it’s fantastic to see Social Print and Copy CIC take further steps to protect their workers from low pay and insecure work by becoming Living Hours accredited.

“The values that led them to commit to the real Living Wage are the same values that have led to their expanded commitment to fair work at a time when workers need it most.”

Accredited Living Wage employers in Scotland span private, public and third sectors, with SMEs making up 75% of the total number of employers. The UK Living Wage is currently £12 per hour, with a separate London Living Wage rate of £13.15 per hour.

The Saltire Society has announced this year’s recipients of the five 2023 Fletcher of Saltoun Awards. 

Dr Scilla Elworthy, three times Nobel Peace Prize nominee for her work with Oxford Research Group receives an award for Public Life.

Great Tapestry of Scotland designer, Andrew Crummy, receives an award for Public Life.

Zoe Shipton, Professor of Geological Engineering in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, receives an award for Science.

Actor Maureen Beattie and poet Rab Wilson receive awards for Arts & Humanities.   

The awards will be presented in a ceremony at Òran Mór in Glasgow on Tuesday afternoon.

The Fletcher of Saltoun Awards, established in 1988, recognise and celebrate the innovators and entrepreneurs who shape the cultural landscape of Scotland in the fields of Science, Arts & Humanities and Public Life.  Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun (1655-1716) was an accomplished patriotic Scots writer, politician, soldier, Commissioner of the Old Parliament of Scotland and an innovative thinker and intellectual visionary.   

Previous recipients include Professor Sir Ian Boyd, John Byrne, Dame Evelyn Glennie and Professor Devi Sridhar.

Sarah Mason, Executive Director of the Saltire Society, said “We are delighted to have this opportunity to celebrate the innovators and Authorities in their fields we have in Scotland, and to recognise their impact.   Since 1936 the Society has worked tirelessly to ensure Scottish culture is recognised, lived and fought for.  The 35 years the Fletcher Awards have been running has seen over 65 people recognised and we are pleased to see five more exceptional people celebrated in 2023.”

Dr Scilla Elworthy has been nominated three times for the Nobel Peace Prize for her work with Oxford Research Group in developing effective dialogue between nuclear weapons policymakers worldwide and their critics. She now leads The Business Plan for Peace to help prevent violent conflict and build sustainable peace throughout the world.  Elworthy founded Peace Direct in 2002 to fund‚ promote and learn from local peace-builders in conflict areas‚ was awarded the Niwano Peace Prize in 2003 and the Luxembourg Peace Prize in 2020.  She has recently been named the recipient of the Goi Peace Award.

Andrew Crummy trained as an illustrator at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee before completing an MA in Design from the Glasgow School of Art.  He became an illustrator and lecturer based in London until 2000. His work developed into large scale murals and since 2013 he has been the designer of 21 tapestries including The Great Tapestry of Scotland. Over the years his work has developed into large-scale community art projects that are rooted in his childhood experience in Craigmillar.

Andrew Crummy said, “It is an honour to receive this award. As a community artist I am very aware that these tapestries are created by many people, bringing their knowledge, creativity and pride to my drawings and taking them to another level. It has been an honour to be part of these projects and to have worked with so many wonderful people.”

Zoe Shipton is Professor of Geological Engineering in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde. Her early career focussed on the structural and permeability architecture of fault zones, geological processes of earthquake rupture propagation and constraining uncertainty in geological models. Her recent research focuses on applying geological understanding to engineering the subsurface: for instance in geothermal energy, energy storage and Geological carbon storage. She, together with colleagues from academia and industry across Scotland, is exploring the use of abandoned and flooded coal mines in Scotland for geothermal heat extraction and energy storage, for use in domestic and industrial heating and to also generate jobs and income.  

Zoe Shipton said “I am delighted to receive this award, and slightly start-struck by the calibre of the other award winners!  I am particularly delighted to see that the nomination mentions that the work I do is part of a team. Achieving the large-scale changes in our energy system and society that are needed to meet (and ideally exceed) our net zero targets requires close collaboration between academia, industry, government and civil society across a very wide range of disciplines. My work has been supported by excellent researchers and colleagues from across science, engineering, social science disciplines and end-users from a wide range of applications. Without this partnership approach I could not have achieved the research and research outcomes  honoured in this award, so I consider this as an award  for the team”. 

Maureen Beattie trained at what is now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland graduating in 1974 with the James Bridie Gold Medal. Her most recent work was in Duet for One at the Orange Tree theatre in Richmond; playing Celia in As You Like It at the RSC; and she has just finished work in a new play, Disfunction, for A Play, a Pie and a Pint at Òran Mór and the Traverse. She was President of Equity until July last year and was made OBE in the 2020 Honours List for services to the entertainment industry. She received an Outstanding Woman of Scotland award from the Saltire Society in 2018. She is the daughter of the late Johnny Beattie, the comedian and actor, and on 22nd October this year she took over from her father as Patron of the Gaiety Theatre in Ayr.

Maureen Beattie said: “My award as an Outstanding Woman of Scotland from the Saltire Society in 2018 was one of the highlights of my life and career. To find myself in the same company as the present and past recipients of the Society’s Fletcher of Saltoun Awards seems almost unbelievable. I will endeavour to prove myself worthy of the faith the Society has placed in me.”

Rab Wilson is an authentic and original Scottish voice who has written poetry including transliterations of The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam and the Odes of Horace into Scots.  His poetry ranges from lyrical verses to political satire and frequently uses classical forms.  His latest book, published in 2019, was ‘Oor Big Braw Cosmos’, a collaboration with the then Astronomer Royal for Scotland, the late Professor John Brown. His work appears regularly in poetry magazines and periodicals and in the daily poetry column of The Herald newspaper. Rab is also a very active social justice campaigner and ex-NHS whistle-blower; for this work he was was nominated for the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award. He has been a previous Robert Burns Writing Fellow in Dumfriesshire and was, until recently, ‘Scots Scriever: Writer in Residence’ at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, Ayr.

Rab Wilson commented “Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun is described online as a ‘Patriot’. In September, 1716, his last words were ‘Lord have mercy on my poor country that is so barbarously oppressed’. Fletcher leeved his life as an advocate fir the country o Scotland, and the people o Scotland. In accepting this year’s Fletcher of Saltoun Award, sae generously awarded bi the Saltire Society, ah’d like tae think ah’m acceptin it in the spirit o the man fir whom it’s named eftir. Ah’d alsae like tae think that wi ma poetry, an activism fir social justice, that ah in some sma wey alsae act as an advocate fir Scotland and its people. Oor Makars still aye-an-oan scrieve fir the ‘sma fowk’… lang may their lums reek!”

The Fletcher of Saltoun Awards have acknowledged over 65 individuals in their thirty-five year history, advocating the brilliance, significance and impact of Scottish Culture. 

Nominations are taken from across the Saltire Society membership to ensure a broad spectrum of individuals.  

The Trustees of the Saltire Society, with the help and advice of independent experts in each field, select the recipients.   

https://www.saltiresociety.org.uk/pages/category/fletcher-of-saltoun-awards  

After making extensive enquiries, police officers have arrested and charged a 45-year-old man in connection with two robberies and an attempted robbery in the Colinton area of Edinburgh.

The incidents took place at premises on Bridge Road, Colinton Road and Ashley Terrace, between Saturday, 7 October, and Sunday, 8 October, 2023.

The man is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 7 November, 2023.

Detective Constable Peter Lyons said: “We’d like to thank the public for their assistance with our enquiries following our earlier appeal.”

Our main photo today shows that Edinburgh’s Christmas is making progress ahead of the start date on 17 November.

And now that it is autumn, the usual annual disruption on Bonfire Night has come to the fore.

Bonfire night disorder

Police Scotland have issued an appeal for information either to them direct or through Crimestoppers to find out who was behind the violence in Niddrie on Sunday evening.

Officers are convinced that the acts were “orchestrated” by adults although carried out by masked youths.

Read more here.

Local MP Tommy Sheppard said he was appalled by the scenes from Sunday night:

Taco Bell refused permission for a cheese melter

Yes you read that right. In a decision which will be discussed on Wednesday the council looks likely to refuse Taco Bell permission to change a previous planning approval for certain kitchen equipment to be used in its new outlet on Picardy Place. Planning officers say the cheese melter would cause smells which could not be extracted and would annoy neighbours.

Read more here.

SCVO The Gathering

The Gathering 2023 staged by The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) takes place at the EICC today and tomorrow. Among many sessions for social enterprises of all sizes, there is a Paths for All walk at lunchtime and Taiko drumming by Nemo Arts to entertain. This is a couple of days for networking and getting to know what government – both Scottish and UK – can offer.

The full programme is here for today’s sessions.

Pedal on Parliament AGM

The AGM of Pedal on Parliament, the cycling infrastructure campaign group, will be held on 9 November at 7.30pm at the Augustine United Church George IV Bridge EH1 1EL.

The organisation is looking for new people to help run any future campaigns, and the meeting will be an opportunity to assess whether POP is still needed and whether it should still continue.

“If you have ideas, energy, enthusiasm and a reasonable amount of spare time (especially during the months of February, March and April), and want to make a difference to cycling in Scotland, then please come along if you can, or join us online – either way, please do book to let us know you’re coming. Because a cycling-friendly Scotland won’t organise itself.”

Booking details here – you can also book online.

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Riding Lights Theatre Company is presenting ‘Give It Back, Mak!’  their Christmas play for all the family at St Thomas’ Church, Glasgow Road. With puppetry, hilarity and extraordinary story-telling, ‘Give It Back, Mak!’ is the quintessential Riding Lights Christmas Experience. 

Out on the hills, under a sky full of stars, it is most bitterly cold. The twinkling lights of the town look very inviting. But no such luck for the shepherds who must keep an eye out for all kinds of unusual predators at winter lambing time…

The Lamb Chop Inn is full to bursting. Worst still, they’ve nothing to serve for Sunday roast. Mak, who runs the place, has put up a sign, ‘NO VACANCIES AT ALL’. Another underneath says: ‘ NOT EVEN THE TEENSIEST ONE’, but a young couple whose car is stranded in the snow knock on the door anyway…

The production lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for age five and up. 

Riding Lights is a professional theatre company based in York. 

Give It Back Mak! is touring primary schools, churches and arts venues around the UK from 20th November to 23 December 2023.

Tickets are £5 for adults, £3 for children or £10 for a family, from churchoffice@saintthomas.org.uk or at the door.

Sunday 2 December 2024 at 4.30pm

Ondine Oyster & Grill restaurant in Edinburgh  are delighted to be celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau this year with Philippe Larue from l’Art du Vin who will join them for lunch on Sunday 19 November with a special menu created by Ondine’s chef and owner, Roy Brett, with matching wines from l’Art du Vin.

Philippe Larue will bring with him the 2023 vintage of Beaujolais and guests can also taste some other Beaujolais which might not be so familiar.

Beaujolais Nouveau is celebrated on the third Thursday of November every year, when the new vintage of wine which is bottled only weeks after harvest, is released to the market.

Roy Brett and his team from Ondine have worked on a special menu that will showcase these wines in their true form and transport you to a gite in France. The rustic menu alongside these stunning young wines is a match made in Burgundy, with a wee nod to Scotland with an apéritif of Lagg whisky, Pommeau Normandie, spiced apple and cinnamon sugar on arrival.

Lunch will be priced at £55pp with 3 matching wines and an aperitif cocktail from Lagg whisky on arrival.  The lunch will start at 1pm, please arrive at 12:30pm.

Please book ahead of time on the website – www.ondinerestaurant.co.uk or by telephone – 0131 226 1888

• Menu:
• APÉRITIF 
• LAGG WHISKY, POMMEAU de NORMANDIE. SPICED APPLE, CINNAMON SUGAR
• COMTÈ GOUGERES,
• Gougères au Comté
• WHIPPED CHICKEN LIVER PARFAIT, WILTSHIRE WINTER TRUFFLE, TOASTED BRIOCHE
• Parfait de Foie de Volaille, Truffle d’Hiver du Wiltshire, Brioche Grillée
• Axiome Beaujolais Blanc, Domaine des Capréoles 2021 
• COD AU VIN, PUY LENTILS, VENTRÈCHE, POMME PURÉE
• Cabillaud au Vin, lentilles du Puy, Ventrèche, Pomme Purée
•  Moulin-à Vnet, Yohan Lardy 2021
• VACHERIN MONT d’OR, BRILLAT SAVARIN, APPLE & FIG TARTE TATIN
• Vacherin Mont d’Or, Brillat Savarin, Tarte Tatin aux Pommes et Figues
•  Beaujolais Nouveau, Domaine Lapalu 2023
• £55 PER PERSON

l’Art du Vin

Since 2007,  l’Art du Vin has built a reputation for being one of the top independent operators in Scotland.

They currently operate from their own warehouse and office facility in Dalgety Bay in Fife, ideally located for servicing their customers all over the country.

l’Art du Vin are passionate about wines made by artisan producers that express their terroir. Their portfolio includes wines that are made with passion, integrity and uniqueness of origin while remaining true to environmental and ethical issues.

They stock a wide range of biodynamic wines and organic wines alongside their very own range of micro fair trade wines, and they take great pride in being the first Scottish wine merchant to be a certified member of the Soil Association.

Originally from Lyon where Philippe Larue, Managing Director of l’Art du Vin studied business, Philippe arrived in Scotland in 1997. Responsible for the strategic direction and management of the business, Philippe also looks after a portfolio of key clients.

Over 25 years of experience in the fine wine industry, having first worked for justerini & Brooks. Philippe is responsible for business development and is one of the key buyers for L’Art du Vin. His areas of expertise are Champagne, Rhone, Italy and South Africa and of course his beloved Beaujolais.

www.aduv.co.uk

A new Taco Bell in the city centre will likely be refused permission to use a “cheese melter” amid fears that it could create unwanted smells for neighbours.

The Mexican fast food outlet has already been given approval to open its second restaurant in the capital in the old Picardy Place Bank of Scotland building – but now owners are at odds with the local authority over what cooking equipment can be used.

Approving plans almost two years ago, officials said plans were “acceptable” but demanded that cooking operations “shall be restricted to the use of one microwave oven, one panini machine, one soup urn, and one toaster only”.

The condition was added as the applicant “did not propose to use a ventilation system that would expel cooking effluvia to a suitable height,” they added.

Taco Bell has applied to have it altered to allow “a cheese melter, a split lid grill, a flat top grill, a rethermaliser and a fryer” in the kitchen.

It said staff would ensure that a recirculation system installed instead of ventilation would operate “at maximum efficiency”.

But the council does not support the move and planners have urged councillors to reject the bid to alter the permission already granted when they meet on Wednesday.

Environmental protection officers “could not support the proposal by virtue of the likely detrimental impact on residential amenity.

“Specifically, the ventilation system would be unable to achieve a consistent standard without regular maintenance.”

The environmental protection officers added that recirculation systems “do not necessarily operate as efficiently as claimed” and that even if maintained well it would not be guaranteed that residential amenity would be “suitably protected”.

The application will be heard by the council’s Development-Management Sub-Committee on Wednesday after a councillor requested it be dealt with by elected members rather than planning officials.

Read the papers for the meeting here.

Watch online here.

by Donald Turvill, Local Democracy Reporter.

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home (EDCH) has issued an appeal for help from the public as the number of people having to give up their pets has increased.

The charity has begun its winter appeal asking for donations so that they can continue to help the animals in their care, and also to stop people having to give up their pets in the first place.

In the summer the home experienced a surge in demand and between January and August they rehomed 167 dogs and 81 cats. Due to the high number of animals which are surrendered to them, EDCH have only been able to take in around 8.8% of the surrender requests.

The charity reminds everyone that there are food banks in Edinburgh which help support pet owners to keep their pets with them, and would relieve some of the pressure on EDCH.

Depending on the funding from public donations and the assistance of volunteer support to help staff, The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home finds winter an especially difficult season as high energy prices drain funds while demand for their vital services increases. 

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, explained, “We have seen a devastating increase in the number of surrender requests that we have received this year.  This is due to various factors, including financial difficulties, behavioural issues and personal circumstances. We have supported pets for 140 years and it’s so important now, more so than ever, that we continue to receive donations and help provide dogs like Bagel with a safe place to recover, find love and also enable owners going through hard times to stay together with their pets. 

“We don’t judge anyone or their circumstances and know that the rise in the cost of living has caused some to struggle to make ends meet. Winter can be especially tough and we are appealing to those who can to make a donation. £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.”   

To make a donation please visitwww.edch.org.uk/winterappeal OR text SURRENDER to 70560 to donate £5. 

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. 

SUCCESS STORY

EDCH has reported a success story with Bagel a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was a victim of years of neglect. The dog came to the home in an emaciated condition, blind due to a dry eye condition, deaf due to sever ear mites, anaemic and malnourished. EDCH vet Bridget said: “Poor Bagel was in a sorry way when she came to us.

“Years of dirt and grime were matted in to her fur and because she was so sick her body had stopped producing hair so she had bald patches all over. Incredibly, with months of constant treatment and care, Bagel made a full recovery. It has been incredible to see her gain the energy and newfound confidence to enjoy life.” 

Police Scotland has issued an appeal for information following events on Bonfire Night in Niddrie. The inquiry is particularly directed towards adults who are thought to have directed the violence against police and other emergency workers.

On Sunday, 5 November, 2023, there were several serious disturbances that required a response from specially trained public order officers.

In Edinburgh officers received reports of a large group of youths and adults gathering in the Hay Avenue area in Niddrie around 4.40pm. Around 50 youths were throwing fireworks at vehicles and buildings.

When officers arrived they came under attack from youths throwing fireworks, petrol bombs and other projectiles. Four officers sustained minor injuries but did not require hospital treatment.

There is a continued police presence in the Niddrie area and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.

For disorder in Edinburgh there is a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) that allows members of the public to send information directly to the police that can be accessed here.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “Last night we experienced significant disorder, in particular in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh, and in the Quarrywood Avenue area of Glasgow.

“Our priority during the disorder was to protect our communities and our emergency workers, and now we are looking to carry on our police work and use the evidence we gathered to carry out the necessary arrests.

“The level of disorder we faced was unacceptable and looking at the evidence we have already gathered, we don’t believe this incident was spontaneous. Although many of those involved were youths, there were undoubtedly adults involved in orchestrating that behaviour.

“We took a robust stance and I am proud of the courage, discipline and professionalism that officers showed in the face of the violence last night.

“A number of our officers sustained minor physical injuries, however we are also aware of the mental impact that dealing with such significant levels of violence/disorder can have and will continue to support all officers affected.  Nobody deserves to be injured in this way for doing their job. An emergency worker is also someone’s son, daughter, husband or wife.

“If anyone has any information that can help us in our investigation then please contact 101, or send it in via the respective portal link.”

In addition, anyone with any information that can assist officers is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 or make a call to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Meet Gabriela Aguado, the President of the Rotary Club of Portobello, who is keen for anyone who lives or works in the area to consider joining their club.

Gabriela is a very engaging and charismatic Mexican woman. She describes herself as creative, and always interested in knowing more about different cultures, traditions and religions.

She enjoys art, writing, walking nature and meditation and she says she is interested in emotional well-being, self-knowledge and emotional healing. Gabriela works as an art therapist and is also an Interior Designer.

She said: “I am an entrepreneur, with diverse business experiences, nowadays, in charge of Yekta a unique shop in the Old Town on South Bridge.

“I first started in interior design in 1991 when I set up a business there. But I have done a lot of different things – I am the author of the novel “La historia equivocada de Wanda Petunias”, (Awareness of sexual abuse) published in Spanish, in 2012 and I am now working on its translation.”

Gabriela is the former CEO of IFIP Instituto de Finanzas Personales (Personal Finances Institute) in Mexico City, from 2009 and is well used to media interviews about using Personal Finance advice to empower people.

In a past life she worked with people, especially single mothers – and many of them girls or teenagers – living in poverty, homeless and/or struggling with drug and sexual abuse. She has used art therapy workshops as part of their healing process and recovery.

Her Rotary career has been a long one. She said:”Rotary is in my veins, my grandfather was a Rotarian. I became a Rotarian in 2000.

“I have been the representative for Community, dealt with the Club’s administration and PR, been the Rotary Foundation Officer, and also the Secretary. I was president four times at my former Club Rotario Contreras in Mexico City. I have served as Diplomatic Relations and Peace and Mediation District Officer in D4170 in Mexico City, at “Revista Rotary Mexico” (Mexico’s Rotary Magazine) in charge of Rotary Diplomatic Section, interviewing diplomats in Mexico City, and am now happily President 2023-2024 of Rotary Club of Portobello D1320.”

Gabriela came to live in Edinburgh when she found love, and became involved in Rotary in Portobello.

She said: “Rotary is a way of living that brings me a lot of nurturing moments when I am able to change forever the lives of others. Rotary gives me satisfaction while being able to draw smiles, touching people’s hearts and making a better world. Rotary is part of my ‘Ikigai’. We base our ethics on the Four Way Test, from what we think, feel and do, either with personal or social matters, family or business:

Is it the truth?

Is it fair to all concerned?

Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Gabriela explained more about the Rotary Club and what members get involved in. She said: “The Portobello club has participated in several very important projects. Locally, with the CBS at Newcraighall Station Park & Ride every last Sunday of the month (from March to October), we contribute to allowing people to make an income and to recycle unused things. The income that we earn, we donate to charities like VOCAL, which cares for un-paid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

“Lend with care is an international micro-loan project that supports entrepreneur families, Polio Plus, which is a Rotary International world-wide programme, to eradicate polio, we vaccine every child in remote places, and Children’s Visual Health in Mexico City involves eye tests for students from very low-income schools and delivering spectacles to the ones who need them. This year, along with other clubs in Scotland and Mexico, we have delivered more than 500 lenses. Our vision is to improve their vision and to change their lives forever.

“Service above all” is our motto and we would welcome new members at our club – for example someone who would like to contribute to create a better world while having fun with new friends all over the globe.”

https://www.facebook.com/portobellorotary

Gabriela welcomed three international scholars, two of whom are studying at the University of Edinburgh Business School, ( l-r below Miranda, Yoko and Riane) to the club’s International Night at Ravelston House in Musselburgh where funds were raised for the club’s visual health programme in Mexico.

A picture speaks louder than words

This is the top level of the W Edinburgh which is about to open this month. The council refused planning permission for an illuminated sign which had been evident in all of the architects’ visualisations since the plans were first lodged, but planners refused it as it would be “too prominent” on the skyline. Read more here about the decision. Almost all other W Hotels across the world have illuminated signs, and a good number of others in Edinburgh have too – for example the Sheraton Grand, the Moxy and the Hampton.

Instead, the owners of St James Quarter, Nuveen Real Estate, have lodged a planning application to put up a sign which is described as: “Fascia sign comprising upper class letter ‘W’. Bronze Rimex (to match ribbon) to front and sides folded around galvanised steel/aluminium frame attached to central hotel ribbon structure via 6no. brackets. Max width 2516mm x Max height 1800mm x Max thickness 75mm.”

Nuveen must be reasonably confident that this application will be approved – they have after all taken advice from the planners on what would be acceptable. And now, the developer has a place to hang the sign as soon as it is approved.

We shall keep an eye on the Development Management Committee meetings in the next couple of weeks and let you know.

Winner of Public Sculpture award

If you have ever peeked into the courtyard at the College of Surgeons then you will have spotted the Covid memorial there sculpted by Kenny Hunter.

Mr Hunter has won the 2023 Public States and Sculpture Association Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture for the work entitled “Your next breath, a Covid Memorial”.

The sculptor said: “Before I began work on the memorial I was able to meet with a range of frontline healthcare workers to discuss their working conditions, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the physical and psychological impact on NHS staff. What emerged from these dialogues was a sense that this memorial should contain a mixture of light and dark to truthfully reflect their experience. Certain words seemed to recur through these collective testimonies and I kept them at  the forefront of my mind as I developed the sculpture.

“Exhaustion from the intense shifts compounded by the fact that many had contracted Covid and so were fatigued with post viral symptoms.
“Reflection throughout the NHS, on working with dedication at such a globally significant moment in history.
“Resilience in the face of stressful working conditions straining the emotional and physical well-being of staff.
“Compassion, of the NHS staff who despite all the difficulties and challenges they faced continued to put themselves in harm’s way to deliver care to those in need.

“The memorial depicts four healthcare workers in scrubs at the end of a shift on a Covid ward. They are sited close to ground level, instead of the traditional plinth, encouraging from the viewer empathy over reverence. You can move among them and return their gaze. They are a group but are isolated on their own base, the space or distance between them being such a significant and relatable experience for everyone who lived through this period.”

We are very glad that our photographer, the late John Preece visited Surgeons Hall last year to photograph the sculpture for us.

Filmhouse

The crowdfunder for Filmhouse (Edinburgh) Ltd is moving towards £200,000 out of a target of £250,000 and the charity which wants to open the doors has meantime had an enormous boost from Screen Scotland. The film body has promised £100,000 which will go towards the secondary target of £1.25 million which Filmhouse need to raise by the end of February 2024. This would allow the charity to open the doors, take on a long lease of the building and continue to raise grant funding to conduct some works to the cinema and café.

The directors behind the move are all previous employees of Filmhouse and are particularly pleased at the number of people coming forward with anything from a small to a large donation. On Crowdfunder the body states their aim: “The goal is to open a new Filmhouse that continues to deliver the same sheer diversity of film programming as was ever the case; the most exceptional range of cultural film all year round – in a revitalised cinema building.

“We are now in advanced negotiations on a long lease with the new owners of 88 Lothian Road, Caledonian Heritable, and have entered into an interim six-month agreement with them to enable a period of fundraising, aiming to re-open in 2024. Currently, Caledonian Heritable are making a significant investment in much needed repairs to the fabric of the building.”

A spokesperson for Filmhouse said: “We have been deeply moved by the huge groundswell of support shown by supporters from Edinburgh and around the world. The strength of feeling is clear; Edinburgh needs a world-class cinematheque. Screen Scotland’s support represents a significant commitment to and endorsement of our plans, and another huge step in realising the dream of reopening Filmhouse.

“As the Crowdfunder is an excellent way for people to donate whether it be £5 or £5000 we have taken the decision to extend the deadline to the end of January 2024.”

If you read nothing else today then read the comments on the Crowdfunder – they are truly life affirming – particularly the references to garlic bread and chickpea curry.

Donate to the crowdfunder here.

The Opening of Parliament

King Charles III will open parliament on Tuesday for the first time since he ascended the throne. This session of parliament may be the last before a General Election is called by Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, although the agenda may not be truly inviting. Sunak has promised to undo some of the more eco-friendly government policies and may even put some kind of boundaries around Ultra Low Emission Zones.

In Scotland the Court of Session just threw out the action by garage owner John Paton & Sons Ltd against Glasgow City Council. The garage in Townhead is within the Low Emission Zone(LEZ) and one argument was that the LEZ would adversely affect the business which involves driving vehicles in and out of the garage for repair. Some of the vehicles may not comply with the regulations and drivers would be fined. Another ground for bringing the action was that it would “make no obvious contribution to meeting air quality objectives and standards”.

The Court of Session found that the arguments against the Glasgow LEZ were not well founded, and that the scheme is lawful, which delighted the Edinburgh Council Transport and Environment Convener, Cllr Scott Arthur. He said: “I welcomed this legal challenge – the questions were reasonable and needed answered. The outcome means Edinburgh’s LEZ can now proceed with more confidence. Signage will start appearing soon and we are hopeful that the Scottish Government will help fund the issue of warning notices ahead of the scheme going live on 1 June 2024.” He then went on to say that he was to have a meeting with NHS Lothian to discuss the anticipated health benefits.

The SNP has said “It’s essential Scotland gets full control over cost of living powers to boost the economy and household incomes” – ahead of the King’s Speech.

With Rishi Sunak due to outline his government’s legislative agenda for what could be the final time before the general election, Stephen Flynn MP said “Westminster has failed millions of families across Scotland, who have seen their incomes hammered due to UK government incompetence”.

As the SNP government freezes council tax to help families with the cost of living, the SNP Westminster Leader has challenged Sunak and Starmer to back SNP calls for:

• The permanent transfer of powers over energy, employment and the economy
• A £400 energy bill rebate, mortgage interest tax relief and action on food prices
• The permanent transfer of powers to hold an independence referendum

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Police Scotland report that violence during Bonfire Night reached “unprecedented” levels of disorder. In Niddrie riot police were called in.

While initial police analysis suggests there has been no rise in recorded fireworks offences, compared to last year, on Sunday, 5 November, 2023, there were a number of serious disturbances that required a specialist police response including that in Edinburgh.

Officers received reports from members of the public at around 4.40pm about a large group of adults and young people gathering in the Hay Avenue area in Niddrie.

Around 50 youths within this group were responsible for directing fireworks at vehicles and buildings with members of the public inside and escalated their behaviour when police arrived, attacking both uniformed and Public Order Officers with fireworks, petrol bombs and other projectiles.

Detectives investigating the attacks on officers within Niddrie are actively pursuing a number of individuals, who they believe were providing local youths with fireworks and petrol bombs to target police. Inquiries into this matter are continuing.

In total, eight officers sustained minor injuries during incidents in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

While only a small number of arrests were made on the evening, as a result of the significant challenges officers faced to ensure no harm came to communities, substantial pieces of evidence have already been gathered and dedicated inquiry teams have been established to progress these investigations. It is anticipated further arrests will take place in the coming days.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “The overwhelming majority of Scotland enjoyed Bonfire Night safely and responsibly, but once again, a minority of individuals have been responsible for an unacceptable and frankly, disgusting level of disorder that left communities alarmed and police officers injured.

“We took learning from last year’s operation and enhanced the level of Public Order resources available to local policing divisions to ensure we could get these assets into locations they were needed quicker, providing a more robust response to criminal incidents.

“The lower levels of disorder experienced in other parts of the country demonstrates that this approach was the correct one. Our partnership work ensured that there was a reduction in damage to public property and that, overall, the emergency services and wider communities were better protected.

“However, the violent nature of the situation witnessed in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh is extremely concerning, not least because it is believed young people were being actively encouraged and co-ordinated by adults to target officers while they carried out their duties.

“Investigations into the offences that arose throughout Scotland on Sunday evening are continuing and we will make every effort to ensure anyone who was involved is identified and brought to justice. If any members of the public believe they have information that can assist our inquiries, then please contact us via 101, or make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Police Scotland officers were subjected to unprecedented levels of violence, and yet they continued to demonstrate professionalism and dedication to keeping communities safe. I am both proud of, and grateful to, all of those who were on duty and put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public during this very challenging time.”

Police in Edinburgh have reported ongoing disorder on Hay Avenue in Niddrie where officers “are being attacked with fireworks, petrol bombs and other projectiles”.

Riot police have been deployed to support local police officers.

Police also say that some local roads are closed and advise people to avoid the area. According to reports the disorder began in the late afternoon around 4.30pm.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “I’m appalled to see the scenes in Niddrie this evening. We’ve been clear that this sort of conduct is unacceptable. 

“We’ve been working hard throughout the year with our partners and in our communities to mitigate Bonfire Night related disruption, so it is extremely disappointing to see a minority of people behaving in this way.  

“This reckless behaviour endangers lives and like the majority of people in the community, I share in their dismay and upset at this disgraceful behaviour. I would like to reassure residents that we are working closely with Police Scotland to ensure the community are safe and appeal to anyone who can help identify those responsible to contact police so they can be dealt with appropriately by the justice system.

“Our emergency services have our full support and do a fantastic job of keeping us all safe.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Specialist Public Order resources, deployed as part of Operation Moonbeam, are currently supporting local officers in the Hay Avenue area of Edinburgh, following reports of a large group of youths involved in the antisocial use of fireworks within the area.

“The police response is ongoing at present to keep the public and emergency service workers safe and local road closures are currently in place.

“The public are thanked for their support at this time.”

Police Scotland have set up Dispersal Zone in Edinburgh which are enforceable all night. As well as Niddrie, the same orders are in place for Muirhouse, Craigentinny, Saughton, Liberton, Moredun, Gracemount and Gilmerton. The identification of these zones enables police to instruct groups of two or more people who are congregating and behaving in an antisocial manner in these areas to disperse.

Anyone who fails to comply, or fails to stay away for up to 24 hours, can face arrest.

Police advised that it is illegal to set off fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm and using fireworks in public place is illegal.

Ruairi Lockerbie’s last-gasp goal secured a sensational comeback victory for Edinburgh Capitals at Murrayfield on Saturday night, with just 4.6 seconds left on the clock.

It has been a deeply emotional week for the world of ice hockey following the tragic death of Nottingham Panthers’ player Adam Johnson last Sunday. 

A minute’s silence was held before the game, with both sets of fans applauding in the 47^th minute in honour of Johnson’s shirt number. 

Dundee Comets claimed an early lead in the game, leaving the home side trailing by two goals after the first period.

Aaron Robertson clawed back a goal for Capitals just 32 seconds into the second period, with Chad Smith’s strike in the third drawing the two sides level. 

With five seconds remaining, Capitals broke away and Ruairi Lockerbie’s dramatic winner was met by thunderous roars from the home fans.

Speaking after the game, Lockerbie said: “We had a good pep talk after the first period and then we were all go from there. I don’t want to say it was in our hands, but the momentum shifted.” 

Capitals went into the game looking to turn around a disappointing string of recent performances, culminating in a 4-0 defeat to Paisley Pirates at Murrayfield last weekend.

Lockerbie said: “We were unhappy with our performances over the past few weeks but this week we’ve proven that we are a good team, and we should be up there.”

Head coach Steven Lynch praised his side’s determination: “That’s the team we put together: a team that works for each other, a team that outworks the opponent, a team that never gives up and just keeps going.

“After last week’s poor performance it was really important for us to come back and get a win tonight. We had to battle for it and we got our reward with five seconds to go.

“There are no easy games in this league so it’s important that we take the momentum from this one tonight into next week and make sure that we get another two points.”

Edinburgh Capitals are back in action next Saturday 11 November when they travel to Stevenston to face North Ayrshire Wild.

Capitals Man of the Match: Joel Gautschi

Hibs were sucker punched in yesterday’s ViaPlay Cup Semi Final losing 1-0 to a 10 man Aberdeen team.

It was a rough cup exit for Hibs who despite controlling the majority of the game and having the ball in the back of the Aberdeen net lost to a Bojan Miovski goal who’s team were down to ten men at the time.

The game started as a typical Hampden semi final with both teams looking edgy and failing to produce any real quality.

Elie Youan and Joe Newell has Hibs’ best chances in the opening half but both strikes missed the target and other than that the early stages were largely dominated by poor quality set pieces and sloppy phases of possession.

Aberdeen’s tactics of going long to Miovski weren’t working, Hibs were struggling to find a man with their final pass and the first half finally ended after what felt like a long and slightly torturous 45 minutes. 

Hibs came out after the break the better side and thought they’d opened the scoring after Martin Boyle had done brilliantly to control and finish past Kelle Roos.

However the screens at Hampden Park brought the Hibs fan crashing back down to earth as they flashed with the VAR logo and the goal was to be checked for a possible offside.

The decision was finally revealed after minutes of boos and the goal was chalked off as Boyle was found to be inches offside.

That helped spring the game into life and both teams started to create more chances, Hibs had efforts by Dylan Vente and Jair Tavares saved and Aberdeen were beginning to come into it before Jack MacKenzie received his second booking for a silly shove on Lewis Miller.

With Aberdeen down to 10 men Hibs pushed to find their winner but after losing the ball in midfield found themselves light in defence and Miovski broke clear in acres of space.

He done well to finish past David Marshall to send the Dons support wild and the team on to the most unlikeliest of victories.

Hibs resorted to hitting the ball long in the closing stages desperately looking for an equaliser but the Aberdeen defence stood firm and held on to their precious one goal lead to progress through to the final next month.

Post match Nick Montgomery said: “Definitely hurting. I thought we controlled the game for large parts.

“I thought we played really well, and I thought we had enough opportunities to win the game…but that wasn’t to be.

“A couple of incidents went against us which we can’t change.

“What we can do is get back onto the training ground and get ready for St. Mirren on Wednesday”

After the match Hibernian announced that one of their supporters had sadly died after the game.

A statement from the club read: “Hibernian FC are devastated to learn of the passing of one of our supporters outside Hampden Park after the game this evening.

“The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with the gentleman’s family, friends and loved ones.

“We send our condolences at this extremely sad time.”

Midlothian-based Mike Kyle won the Iain Reid Memorial sea fishing match over two days at Kirkcaldy and Leven beaches in Fife.

Kyle, a Scottish international, landed 20 fish, 11 on the second day measuring 266cm, to add to the nine he hooked on day one at Kirkcaldy for 227cm. He took home £360.

Second was Neil Cutler from Tyneside who totalled four fish on day one for 101cm and 12 at Leven for 321cm and won £250.

And third was Stuart Cresswell from Ayr with ten fish, seven coming on the second day for 215cm to add to his three on day one which totalled 107cm. He pocketed £150.

Kirkcaldy resident Les Carrington hooked into the longest flatfish over the two days, a 40cm flounder which arrived early on Day One on an end peg just down from the car park, and he won £100.

Lots of flounders were caught at Leven on Day 2, with dabs, coley and bass also carded and anglers did not have to cast far to find fish but peg draw turned out to be key.

Zone winners: Day One at Kirkcaldy: Zone A: 1, Isaac Muir (Glasgow); 2, Sammy Watson (Ayr), Scott McCartney (Ayr); Zone B: 1, Jordan Henderson (Newcastle), 2, Mike Horn (Kirkcaldy); 3, Chris Horn (Kirkcaldy); Zone C: 1, Steve Sergbine (Dunfermline); 2, David Cargill (Dundee); 3, Les Carrington (Kirkcaldy).

Day Two at Leven: Zone A: 1, Stevie Burns (Prestonpans); 2, Willie Stafford (Edinburgh); 3, Gareth Gardiner (Sunderland). Zone B: Chris Horn (Kirkcaldy); 2, Alan Combe (Kirkcaldy); 3, Les Carrington (Kirkcaldy). Zone C: Scott McCartney (Ayr); 2, Steve Richardson (Newcastle); 3, Adam Johnstone (Newcastle).

PICTURE: Kirkcady beach on day one of the event. Picture Nigel Duncan

The University of Edinburgh moved closer to men’s hockey Scottish Premiership leaders Grange with a narrow win at fourth-placed Uddingston and the pair face each other at Peffermill on Saturday in a crunch clash which could define the season for both clubs.

Keir Robb, the student’s captain, admitted they ground out a result in Lanarkshire after a tough week which included a long travel to Nottingham Trent for a British Universities and Colleges Sport clash which they lost narrowly.

Saturday’s 6-4 win over Western Wildcats, another of the title contenders, took its toll on the students and Robb admitted: “We were tired today.”

The influential skipper opened the scoring at Uddingston but the home side levelled. Sam Hunt made it 2-1 but back came Uddingston and it was Irishman Tom Cahalin who netted around seven minutes from time to earn the 3-2 win.

Robb added: “We ground out that win as the guys were tired from three tough games in five days. We played well to bounce back from the Nottingham defeat against Western and this win puts us in a good position to meet Grange.”

Grange coach Steve Grubb was in the stand at Peffermill on Saturday to watch the students and so he is leaving nothing to chance.

Elsewhere, FSEG Clydesdale beat struggling Erskine Stewart’s Melville 4-0 in Glasgow leaving the Capital side second bottom of the table.

PICTURE: Keir Robb on the ball against Western Wildcats. Picture Nigel Duncan

Rangers will play Aberdeen in the Viaplay Scottish League Cup Final at Hampden on December 17 thanks to a 3-1 victory over Hearts in the second semi-final at Hampden.

The Glasgow side, who edged the Gorgie men in the league last Sunday at Ibrox, dominated the first half, sending crosses into the Hearts defence and the Jambos rearguard, who had a height advantage, were able to deal with tactic and repel the attacks.

Hearts were trying to contain and the Glasgow side were also wasteful but Rangers made changes at the break and Scott Wright came on to replace midfielder Todd Cantwell. 

That made a difference and minutes later Rangers appealed for a penalty when a Sam Lammers shot struck the arm of Jorge Grant then Danilo went down in the box after a collision with Hearts’ goalkeeper, Zander Clark, both players targeting the same ball.

A VAR check confirmed referee Nick Walsh’s decision and Rangers skipper James Tavernier scored his ninth of the season by sending the ball into the corner of the net. Time 50 minutes.

Hearts tried to respond and big defender Frankie Kent forced Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland to push the ball wide, but another goal looked inevitable and Rangers broke and Danilo fed substitute Wright who scored in the corner after 55 minutes.

At the other end, Hearts tried to respond and Stephen Kingsley’s drive was touched over the bar by Butland but Jambos fans headed for the exit when Tavanier netted his second and Rangers’ third, curling a free-kick into the top corner, with 64 minutes on the clock.

Steven Naismith made two changes for Hearts to try and salvage the game, Yutaro Oda and Alan Forrest coming on for Grant and Toby Sibbick and Rangers introduced three new players, Tom Lawrence back after a long-term injury, Ben Davis and Cyriel Dessers for Lammers, Leon Balogun and Danilo.

Kingsley was shown a second yellow after a challenge with Davis but the Hearts player protested and the red card was withdrawn after a VAR check.

Then the Edinburgh club were handed a lifeline with just under ten minutes to play when they were awarded a penalty and Lawrence Shankland (pictured) made no mistake from the spot.

Rangers, however, kept on coming and Borna Barasic forced Clark to make a one-handed save at the near post late-on. Naismith made more changes, substitute Calem Nieuwenhof making way for young midfielder Aidan Denholm but Rangers negotiated the final minutes.

Rangers will face a team from the Granite City who defeated them at Ibrox recently in the cinch Premiership. Aberdeen edged Hibs 1-0 at Hampden on Saturday tto earn their place in the showpiece game.

Winner of Public Sculpture award

If you have ever peeked into the courtyard at the College of Surgeons then you will have spotted the Covid memorial there sculpted by Kenny Hunter.

Mr Hunter has won the 2023 Public States and Sculpture Association Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture for the work entitled “Your next breath, a Covid Memorial”.

The sculptor said: “Before I began work on the memorial I was able to meet with a range of frontline healthcare workers to discuss their working conditions, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the physical and psychological impact on NHS staff. What emerged from these dialogues was a sense that this memorial should contain a mixture of light and dark to truthfully reflect their experience. Certain words seemed to recur through these collective testimonies and I kept them at  the forefront of my mind as I developed the sculpture.

“Exhaustion from the intense shifts compounded by the fact that many had contracted Covid and so were fatigued with post viral symptoms.
“Reflection throughout the NHS, on working with dedication at such a globally significant moment in history.
“Resilience in the face of stressful working conditions straining the emotional and physical well-being of staff.
“Compassion, of the NHS staff who despite all the difficulties and challenges they faced continued to put themselves in harm’s way to deliver care to those in need.

“The memorial depicts four healthcare workers in scrubs at the end of a shift on a Covid ward. They are sited close to ground level, instead of the traditional plinth, encouraging from the viewer empathy over reverence. You can move among them and return their gaze. They are a group but are isolated on their own base, the space or distance between them being such a significant and relatable experience for everyone who lived through this period.”

We are very glad that our photographer, the late John Preece visited Surgeons Hall last year to photograph the sculpture for us.

A housing developer who replaced the doors of a Gothic church hall as part of a conversion has been ordered to bring the originals back after carrying out the work without consent.

Midlothian Council issued an enforcement notice on Southfield Homes Edinburgh Ltd, after they converted the listed 19th century building into housing.

But the firm has appealed to the Scottish Government, insisting the changes have improved the look of the building and the surrounding area.

The church hall, which opened in 1843 as a home for the Free Church congregation, was put up for sale by the Church of Scotland three years ago.

Midlothian planners said the developers did not apply for Listed Building Consent before replacing the original storm doors and windows of the hall.

They said: “The works that have been undertaken are considered to result in the unacceptable loss of historic fabric of architectural importance.”

They issued an enforcement notice demanding the removal of the new unauthorised storm doors and windows and replace them either with the original ones or replacements of ‘similar material, finish and detailing’ as them.

In an appeal to Scottish ministers, the agents for Southfield Homes Edinburgh argue the changes were required to meet building regulations.

Their submission said: “There are few who would not agree that the appearance of the building as a result of the alterations undertaken have significantly approved the appearance of the building and the Conservation Area within which it is situated.”

And they have accused the council of failing to serve the enforcement notice properly urging ministers to reject in on those grounds.

They said: “Insofar as we can establish, the council has only served a copy of the enforcement notice on the secretary of Southfield Homes Edinburgh Limited.

“Whilst Southfield Homes Edinburgh Limited are the owners of the application site which is subject of the enforcement proceedings to which this appeal relates, there are six directors of that said company, as noted below, none of whom have been directly served with a copy of the enforcement notice and all of whom have an interest in the building affected by it.”

by Marie Sharp, Local Democracy Reporter

Auld Reekie Roller Derby are hosting a double header of live roller derby at Dalkeith Community Campus on Sunday 19 November.

Roller derby is a fast-paced full contact team sport, played on quad roller skates. It requires speed, strategy, and athleticism, and is one of the world’s fastest growing female sports.

Founded in 2008, this will be the club’s final home game in their 15^th Anniversary year, and they expect big crowds from their loyal fans.

The two-game day, entitled ‘Stranger Spins’, with an 80s ‘Stranger Things’ theme, kicks off at 12:30pm. The first game is between challenger teams, which include skaters playing their first public game, and the second headliner game sees friendly rivals Auld Reekie All Star Reserves take on nearby Dundee Roller Derby.

A family-friendly event, there will also be food vendors, half time games and merchandise sellers. The 80s tunes will be playing and crowds are encouraged to wear their best 80s fashions!

Local Edinburgh skater Annie Bechtel will be playing her first public game and is feeling excited, “I thought it would be at least a year till I was even close to competing with Auld Reekie, so I’m delighted to be on the team. I’m nervous, but there is always such a great atmosphere from the crowd.”

Annie, whose roller derby nickname is Timber, on account of the fact that “I fall down a lot, and I’m tall”, started the Auld Reekie skater training programme in December 2022. She sustained an injury, but that wasn’t enough to put her off the full contact sport, “I’ve recovered, made it through the next round of skater training, and am ready to skate my best!”

Don’t miss out on Auld Reekie Roller Derby’s thrilling home game, book your tickets now at: http://www.universe.com/events/stranger-spins-tickets-7C1D23

Joppa, represented by Emma Devine and Finn McLean, took the venerable Pringle Cup  – 65 years old – when they defeated Musselburgh in a final hosted by Craigmillar Park Tennis and Padel at Cameron Toll.

Musselburgh were represented by James Towlson and Ruiqing Hu.

Some 15 mixed doubles pairings from 13 East of Scotland clubs including the far travelled Kirkcaldy and North Berwick competed in what was a social as well as a competitive event.

Joppa will now host the Pringle Cup in 2024.

The winning pair are pictured with organiser Aly Findlay (centre).

Defending champion Davie Cooper hooked into 36 fish during leg two of the Edinburgh Winter Shore Angling League but he could not keep pace with the leaders.

The self-employed Edinburgh-based painter and decorator was fifth in the field of nearly 30 with 928 points, just ahead of his brother Colin who accumulated 917 points from 38 fish.

The winner on the night was Gordon Lyall, an employee of the Edinburgh Angling Centre, one of the sponsors along with Cox and Rawle, with a staggering 51 fish at Newhaven breakwater for 1,220 match points with Neil Cutler second with 43 fish for 1,106 points.

Third was Gavin Owen with 42 fish for 1,100 points and fourth Stevie Souter with 37 fish for 970 points.

Chris Empson from Dunbar, a Scottish international, was seventh with 37 fish for 908 points and nobody n the 28-strong field blanked on the night with 697 fish caught.

They included codling, dabs, flounder, whiting to 35cms and two haddock at 32cm and 35cm and conditions were favourable with light rain stopping soon after the start of the match.

Anglers from Tyneside and Arbroath as well as Central Scotland were in the field and Ian Campbell, the organiser, said there were multiple bags of over 30 fish and if you did not catch 30 fish you were not in the top ten. He added: “This was only a three hour match.”

The longest fish was shared between Chris Anderson with a 35cm whiting and Chris Empson with a 35cm haddock.

The next leg is at Newhaven on November 17.

Other results: 8, Stevie Burns 33 fish, longest 27cm, points 803; 9, Gordon McLeod 31-29-782; 10, Gus Brindle 33-25-778; 11, Ryan Venters 27-30-678; 12, Stuart MacFarlane 28-30-643; 13, Ian Campbell 25-31-617; 14, Steve Potts 22-32-577; 15, Steve Richardson 24-29-560; 16, Dave McKervail 21-27-518; 17, Steven Barret 21-25-476; 18, Scott Emmerson 19-25-466; 19, Chris Barret 16-29-393; 20, Alan Haggon 15-29-363; 20, Grant Ewing 14-33- 354; 21, Chris Anderson 13-35-323; 22, Mike Gilbertson 13-25-299; 23, James Johnson 11-23-268; 24, Ian Boyd 11-26-263; 25, Stewart Falconer 11-26-256; 26, Buffy McAvoy 10-24-238; 27, Kevin McNish 10-24-235; 28, Ian Ferguson 5-19-119.

PICTURE: One of the entrants baiting his rig at Newhaven before the match on Friday. Picture Nigel Duncan

Fife Flyers let slip a 2-0 lead before going down 3-2 in overtime to Scottish rivals Glasgow Clan in the Elite League at Kirkcaldy when the Braehead club celebrated their first road win since March.

Clan captain Dyson Stevenson claimed the game-winner 1min 26sec into the extra session but Flyers broke the deadlock in 15 minutes through Casey Gilling when his shot from an angle slid under Glasgow netminder Jake Kielly.

Collin Shirley and Troy Lajeunesse came close before Kyle Osterberg netted in the 28th minute on the power play but Clan refused to throw in the towel.

Mike Pelech and Gary Haden combined as the visitors burst into the home zone, with Haden getting the final touch, tucking it past Flyers’ netminder Shane Owen to pull one back after 35 minutes.

Then, just 17 seconds later, Haden’s backhand shot took a nick from Bryce Reddick on the way in to bring the Clan level as the game reached the latter end of the second period.

Gilling saw an opening in the third period as Fife almost made a powerplay opportunity count, but he was denied by an excellent Kielly save.

But both teams couldn’t be separated and it remained level as the game moved into overtime and Stevenson tipped home Jake Bolton’s shot from the blue line to seal the win.

PICTURE: Fife v Clan from our library

Impressive Jamie Green netted a treble as Grange opened up a six point lead at the top of the men’s Scottish Premiership thanks to an emphatic 9-0 victory over FSEG Clydesdale at Fettes.

Green has been outstanding for the Edinburgh combine this season and coach Steve Grubb complemented his men for making a strong start with a good penalty corner conversion in the opening minutes then Green claimed his treble to stretch Grange’s lead to 4-0 at the end of the first quarter.

Grubb said: “This was achieved by a really good team performance, executing everything we had worked on in training.”

Clydesdale, he felt, steadied the ship in the second quarter which Grange dominated but could not find the net.

Grubb added: “During Q3 we tried to force the game a little bit too much and failed to convert any chances. A good discussion during the break saw us restart the game with a better sense of purpose and we managed to score a further five goals coming from both open play and short corners.

Goalkeeper David Forrester had one shot to deal with during the game and Grubb said: “Overall, a really good performance but we still have room for improvement.”

There were doubles for Aiden McQuade and Archie Stephen and other scorers, in a side minus crocked Robbie Croll (shoulder) were Alan Johnston and Dylan Bean.

Grubb made the trip across town to Peffermill and saw The University of Edinburgh beat Western Wildcats 6-4 in one of the games of the season so far.

The fast-running students were in command at 5-1 but Western dug in and piled on the pressure, however Hamish Imrie’s men held on and they play Uddingston on Sunday 12.30). Erskine Stewart’s Melville are at Clydesdale (13.30).

Alex Wilson netted twice for the home side with Sam Hunt, impressive German player, Luca Muller, who was strong in midfield, plus Sam Hunt, Tom Cahalin and skipper Keir Robb scoring the others.

Western actually enjoyed much of the possession in the first quarter with experience goalkeeper Gavin Somerville having little to do apart from picking the ball out of the back of the net twice, the home side clinically netting from quick ball.

Urged forward by player/coach Imrie, who seemed to pop up everywhere, and quicksilver skipper Robb, who scored a stunning opening goal, the students scored again to lead 3-0 at the break.

Wounded Western upped their game in the second-half, scoring from a first-time shot from veteran Johnny Christie from the left hand side of the D.

The students bounced back to lead 4-1 and then 5-1 before former Edinburgh player Ian McFadden netted for Western to give a 5-2 scoreline and then Scottish international Callum Duke scored No 3 to increase the pressure on the home side.

The pace was relentless but a sixth for the home side secured the points before Andrew McConnell, back from Germany, scored for Western but, try as they might, they could not find the net again.

Robb said that their clinical finishing was crucial in a tight game in which he said the home side produced some of their best hockey of the season so far.

He added: “Our fitness level is high but we must put on a sound performance again when we play at Uddingston on Sunday otherwise this result will be wasted.”

Duke said: “We did not give up, even at 5-1, but they are well-organised and clinical in front of goal.”

Other scores, Uddingston beat Grove Menzieshill 4-2 and Hillhead edged Erskine Stewart’s Meiville 2-1 with Inverleith winning impressivly 8-2 at Dundee Wanderers, Charlie Jack scoring five goals and was, said coach Paul Taylor, “the catalyst”.

Kyle Taylor, Stuart Hatton and Will James were the other marksmen on the day and the coach said: “We were in full control from the first whistle. It was a good win.”

In the women’s Premiership, Glasgow University were thrashed 8-0 at home by GHK while Gordonians lost 7-0 in Aberdeen to Clydesdale Western and pace-setting Watsonians battered Hillhead 13-0 at Peffermill. University of St Andrews went down 5-0 at home to Western Wildcats.

Uddingston were held 1-1 by Grange Edinburgh Ladies in Lanarkshire. Grange scored on the stroke of half-time through Hannah McKie but the home side levelled when Hasya Saifuddin netted in quarter three.

PICTURE: Keir Robb fired home to open the scoring at Peffermill. Picture Nigel Duncan

The Scottish Liberal Democrats held their conference at the Royal College of Physicians under the leadership of Alex Cole Hamilton MSP.

They passed motions to call on The Scottish Government to deliver funding for local authorities and health boards to deal with the problems of RAAC in their buildings, and also for fairer funding for local authorities in Scotland.

Leader Alex Cole-Hamilton called for taxation on social media firms to treble to pay for mental health care.

He said in his speech: “

“Conference, half of parents say their child has experienced mental ill health. It is a national crisis.

“I have met countless families trying to get their child seen.

“I’m really worried about how much social media is a part of this.

“As a political leader I’ve seen my fair share of its dark side, of online abuse.

“But for young people it can feel like there is no escape.

“97% of them are now on social media, and for big chunks of the day.

“It’s shattering their mental health. It can impact their sense of self-worth and cause them to hate their own appearance.

“When they are telling us it is doing them harm, and they are, we should listen.

“Clamping down on harmful content is essential.

“But we need to look deeper at the damage the social media giants have wrought, at the shattered pieces of childhood that lie in the margins of their profits.

“It’s time for them to pay.

“The Digital Services Tax is paid by the largest social media sites.

“This should be the vehicle to exact proper recompense for the harm they are doing.

“Liberal Democrats would treble that tax to raise £1.5 billion next year alone.

“That could unlock up to £150 million for the Scottish Budget in Barnett consequentials.

“That could help boost mental health support in schools, get more professionals close to where you live, and guarantee that whenever a young person needs help it will come fast.

“This is an opportunity to build world-class mental health services for Scotland.

“Conference, this could save lives.”

The Scottish Liberal Democrats had invited Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Richard Ratcliffe to address them.

Ms Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British citizen from 2013, was detained in Iran from 3 April 2016 until her eventual release on 16 March 2022. Her young daughter was born in June 2014. Both Ms Zaghari-Ratcliffe and her husband talked bout the difficulties they faced during her detention, the campaign for her release which involved both of them going on hunger strike and how difficult it is to adjust to life now. She said: “I underestimated how tough freedom would be.”

It was fair but dull leaving Edinburgh. Crossing the River Forth at Queensferry you could see darker clouds over to the right. The twisty coast road is never appealing, and worse when you think there may be rain in the dark clouds at the end of the journey.

Nearing Kirkcaldy, the mist emerged, shrouding the floodlights at Starks Park, home of Raith Rovers FC. Dropping down to the Promendade through the traffic lights at Morrisons the fog lifted, but the drizzle started.

It was that wetting drizzle and so we drove into the car park at the Promenade and dived straight into the boot for the wet weather gear. A dreich day in Kirkcaldy.

More than 50 anglers, some of them seasoned competition fishermen and international competitors, were already spread along the beach from near the car park to the harbour. The Iain Reid Memorial fishing competition had returned.

Twelve months ago organisers had to find another venue as storms lashed the Kirkcaldy prom. Not this time. This week’s high winds had left their mark, with debris at the foot of the breakwater, but there was hardly a breath of wind and the sea conditions were considered good by experts with light waves.

However, there was that drizzle. Camera gear had to be shielded from the wet and from one angler who objected to my taking pictures on the beach. We moved on.

Towards the town, chilled, soaked fingers had to wrestle with lugworm and mackerel bait for the three hook flapper rigs which many anglers seemed to have adopted.

The first lines entered the surf at 10am and not long after, at the end of the beach near Morrisons supermarket, Steve Sergbine, originally from Sunderland but now a resident of Dunfermline, saw his rod tip jerk. Seconds later pulled a beautiful bass of around 3lb through the waves.

Alan Brown, chairman of the East Lothian-based Bass Rock Shore Angling League, marked Steven’s card and the Tyneside-born angler had another rig ready to cast. Back it went along with hopes of more.

Steve won last weekend’s Arbroath Winter Cod open, fished in “horrible” conditions, and was obviously keen to add another title to his CV. He certainly started this competition well, winning his zone on Day One.

Along the beach the tom-tom drums were beating. Steve’s fish was a talking point and there were reports of a “sizeable” flounder being landed.

Scottish international, Buffy McAvoy, Aberdeen-born but now living in Edinburgh, later confirmed she had hooked into another flounder, measuring 30cm. Things were hotting up, particularly at the Morrisons end of the beach.

Thankfully, the rain relented and the strong field, which included Mike Horn, president of the Scottish Federation of Sea Anglers (SFSA) and Alan Combe, another member of the gold medal winning team in the Home Internationals held in Wales in the summer, kept plugging away, looking for fish.

Dog walkers and cyclists were curious to know why so many anglers had suddenly appeared on the beach. Yes, locals do fish the area regularly, but not in such big numbers.

One elderly gentleman was, however, uninterested. He was more concerned with keeping his home fire burning, collecting wood and coal washed up on the beach by the recent strong winds.

He asked: “Could you do me a favour and take that bucket of coal up to the path?” No problem. As for the anglers, the results arrived late on Saturday from Day One.

Overall, it was a hard day fishing but some good bass and a flounder of 40cm leads the longest flat fish prize. Midlothian-based Mike Kyle had nine fish for 227cm to lead one one with Tyneside-based Neil Cutler second with 101cm from four fish and Gordon Hunter third with three for 76cm.

Mike Horn was fourth with two fish for 66cm and his son Chris fifth with two fish for 53cm.

In another zone, Steve Sergbine leads the way with 178cm from five fish with David Cargill second with five fish for 178cm, the anglers were split by the longest fish.

Les Carrington was third with 122cm and three fish with Buffy McAvoy fourth with three fish for 92cm. Thomas Slow from Portobello firth with three fish for 82cm.

In the third zone, Stuart Cresswell was top with 107cm from three fish, with Isaac Muir second on 103cm from three fish, Sandy Lawson third with two fish for 70cm and Scott McCartney fourth with two fish for 65cm.

The anglers have decamped to Leven for Day Two. First prize is £360, second £150 and third £150 with the winner of Zone winner receiving £90, runner-up £60 and third £40. The longest fish over two days prize is £100.

Mike Horn looking at his rod tip on Kirkcaldy beach during the Iain Reid Memorial. Picture Nigel Duncan

View along the crowded beach at Kirkcaldy. Picture Nigel Duncan

Stevie Burns from Prestonpans measures a fish with James Ogilvie from Haddington ready to jot down the length. Picture Nigel Duncan

Steve Sergbine looks at his rod tip on the way to his section win at Kirkcaldy. Picture Nigel Duncan

Steve Sergbine checks his measure with marker Alan Brown of West Barns in East Lothian looking on. Picture Nigel Duncan