Fife Flyers are second in the four-strong Challenge Cup group dominated by last season’s Grand Slam winners, Belfast Giants, sponsored by Stena Line, who are running away from the rest with eight points from four games and with a goals for total of 15 with only five against.

Coach Tom Coolen’s men are second with two points from three outings. They have scored five goals and let in six. Glasgow Clan, sponsored by Aspray Glasgow West are third also with two points from three games and a goal difference of minus two, having scored seven and lost nine.

Dundee Stars, backed by Trade-Mart, prop up the table with zero points from two outings and they have scored three goals and shipped ten so this weekend’s two games are vital for the Tayside team’s coaching staff and players and their fans.

Coolen said: “We have a full compliment right now and we will be doing everything we can to get a result. Our concentration is in playing our game, but having a full compliment is a good problem to have.

Both teams go into the clash on a high, Stars having edged Manchester Storm 3-2 in a shootout on Tayside on Sunday, reversing a 4-2 road defeat at The Storm Shelter in the North-West on Saturday, while fired-up Fife came from behind to earn a victory at Coventry Blaze. Both games were in the Elite League.

This weekend’s games are in the Challenge Cup and the clash at Kirkcaldy is at 19.15 on Saturday with the return at The Dundee Ice Arena at 17.00 on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Glasgow Clan are at home to Coventry Blaze on Saturday (19.00) in the Elite League.

PICTURES: Flashback to games v Dundee earlier this season courtesy of the Elite League and Dean Wooley

Steven Naismith admitted that in the last Hearts v Hibs clash in the cinch Premiership the Tynecastle team did well to get a result.

The pair meet for the first time this season at Tynecastle on Saturday (kick-off 15.00) with the Jambos fourth in the table with ten points and Hibs are tucked in behind in sixth position and only two points adrift.

Hearts have two wins in the last five fixtures between the Capital rivals and Hibs have one with two draws but Nick Montgomery’s (pictured) improving side come into the fixture on a five-match unbeaten run.

The new Hibs manager, who is facing his first Edinburgh Derby, has no fresh injury worries. Striker Dylan Vente and Adam Le Fondre could make their Derby debuts and they are danger men as they have scored ten goals between them this term in all competitions.

Naismith wants to harness the passion of the home fans and last weekend’s narrow win at Ross County, he said, was achieved by what the head coach called “a professional performance”

He told Hearts TV that as the game wore on the players became more comfortable and patient and Naismith added: “We made the right choices and were waiting for that moment and then it came at a really good time for us.”

He reminded fans that you can’t win a game in the first minute and Naismith added; “It is about managing the game properly so that when those chances come you take them.”

Hearts are still “work in progress” and Naismith added: “As long as we can keep picking up results, while we’ve got a lot of injuries, and the team is growing, that is the most pleasing aspect.”

And the former Scotland international added: “We go into the game like we do any other game, expecting to win, wanting to win and we will do everything we can to win.”

Meanwhile, Hearts have confirmed that tickets are now on sale for the cinch Premiership match at Rangers on Sunday, October 29 to supporters with 50 or more loyalty points. One ticket per account will be made available and fans will be seated in the Sandy Jardine stand. 

PICTURE: Nick Montgomery by Ian Jacobs

Some of the winners of the annual Dean Tennis Club championships display an exquisite array of trophies.

Left to right: David Robb, Russell Whyte, David Tweedie, Morag Houston, Jennifer Ayers and Russell Jones.

Also pictured with club president Moira Little are singles winners Morag Houston and David Tweedie, who both retained their titles.

 Results:

Gents singles : David Tweedie beat Tom Collins 6-4, 6-0

Ladies singles:  Morag Houston beat Jennifer Ayers 7-6, 6-4

Mixed doubles; Stephen Jones and Jill Walker beat Russell Whyte and Morag Houston 5-7, 6-0 (10-1).

 Gents doubles: David Robb and Russell Whyte beat Stephen Jones/Guy Ridley 0-6, 7-6, (11-9)

Ladies doubles: Jennifer Ayers and Cansu Beril beat Sheila Graham and Jill Walker 6-1, 7-5

Gent’s handicap singles:  Stephen Jones beat Kyle McEnery 6-2, 6-2

Ladies handicap singles: Eilidh Mackenzie beat Fiona Laing 6-1, 6-3

Veterans mixed doubles: David Robb and Ann Dickson beat Alasdair Humphery and Pascale King 7-5, 6-1

Tournament organisers and referees – Emily Anderson and Tom Collins.

Scottish international Chris Empson won the first leg of the Bass Rock Shore Angling League’s winter series at North Berwick.

Dunbar-based Empson, who recently won the club’s summer series, hooked into three fish near North Berwick Harbour in flat calm conditions.

A stiff westerly breeze prevailed during the three-hour match but only four anglers weighed in with fish over the size limits with codling and rockling presented.

Empson’s haul totalled 3lb 13oz and second was Steve Biskup (North Berwick) with two fish for 1lb 14oz with Neil Anderson (North Berwick) a close third with three fish for 1lb 13oz.

Jamie McHale from Gifford was fourth with a fish weighing 1lb 2oz.

Empson won the heaviest bag prize and Biskup the heaviest fish and the second leg will be on Wednesday, October 11 at a venue to be decided by the committee over the weekend but it is likely to be a Dunbar Rover.

New members are welcome and information on the next match will be posted on the Bass Rock Shore Angling League Facebook page.

PICTURE: Keith Forbes waiting and hoping off the sea wall at North Berwick. Picture Nigel Duncan

James Ogilvie (left) and Keith Forbes waiting and hoping for fish at North Berwick. Picture Nigel Duncan

Keith Forbes baiting up. Picture Nigel Duncan

North Berwick Harbour at night, packed with boats. Picture Nigel Duncan

Chris Empson who won the summer series and the first leg of the winter series in an earlier match at Musselburgh. Picture Nigel Duncan

An Edinburgh cabbie living in one of the city’s most expensive postcodes has been refused permission to use his garage as a short-term let – despite arguing it would not become a “party flat”.

The council raised concerns that the small holiday accommodation unit in the Grange would result in too much disturbance to neighbours as visitors could “come and go frequently throughout the day and night”.

It comes just after with legislation requiring licensing and planning permissions came into effect at the weekend.

In line with the new regulations taxi driver Douglas Peden sought change of use of a garage in the back garden of his St Catherine’s Place home to a short-term let (STL) including minor internal and external alternations.

In a letter to the council supporting the application someone claiming to be his friend of 10 years said he would “run this business very well” and have the “utmost consideration for his neighbours”, adding the garage was “well tucked away”.

This was rejected by local community group Grange Association however, who disputed the applicant’s claims that the area was suited to visitor accommodation as it was “not some sleepy suburb, but a central district of the capital”.

An objection from the Association argued the street “retains a residential ambience…and remains predominantly residential and is quiet in the evenings and weekends”.

Plans submitted to the council Mr Peden said the one-bed garage provided a “rare self-catering option in the city”.

The existing lock-up replaced one demolished in 2013 and was initially intended for taxi storage and maintenance, but was no longer needed for this purpose.

Plans added guest numbers would be limited to two people for a minimum of two nights per visit – saying this would “safeguard against the highly unlikely outcome that the proposed one-bedroom STL property might somehow be used as a ‘party flat’”.

Mr Peden also said anyone looking to book a stay with “a less than excellent or silent review history” would “simply be declined”.

However the arguments made did not stack up for planners or councillors, who rejected the proposals at the Development Management Sub-Committee on Wednesday.

In a report the council said: “The change of use of this property to a short term let (STL) will have an unacceptable impact on neighbouring amenity.

“Whilst it is recognised that there is an economic benefit to the city as a whole from the provision of tourist accommodation, in this case it does not outweigh the adverse impact on residential amenity.”

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Sandy Mabon has just confirmed the date of the first competition to be held at Morton Fishings near Livingston since he took ownership earlier this year.

The date for your diary is Sunday, October 29, and, within hours of the announcement on social media, over 20 anglers had signed on.

Mabon, who took over in March, has put over six tonnes of fish into the lake since March and has made extensive on-shore alterations to the fabric.

He’s recently opened a tackle shop and has thousands of new flies for sale.

Mabon (pictured beside the new boat platforms at the fishery by Nigel Duncan) said: “The fishing will be from 8am to 4.30pm and there will be a break at 12 noon for soup and sausage rolls, tea and coffee, whatever you want, and back out and it is the first three caught at counted, it does not matter what size they are.

“You come in get them weighed and then you can go back out to fish and enjoy the rest of your day on a catch and release basis.”

He added: “Everybody else is doing competitions and so I thought we will try it and see what happens. We have over 20 people signed already and we only opened bookings 24-hours ago.

“If the bank is full and the boats are full then we will have around £1,000 in prize money. That will be £500 for first place, second £250 second and £150 third and we have prizes for the first fish and biggest fish. If it works we will do more.”

The newly completed boat docking platforms at Morton Fishings. Picture Nigel Duncan

A view towards the woods at Morton Fishings. It was unfortunately raining when this was taken. Picture Nigel Duncan

Edinburgh’s most famous penguin Sir Nils Olav is the world’s highest-ranking penguin, and now the Guinness World Records title has been revised to take account of his promotion from Brigadier to Major General.

Sir Nils lives at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo where keepers welcomed the updated record title.

Guinness World Records Editor in Chief Craig Glenday visited the zoo to present the zoo’s penguin keeper team with the updated world record title. 

Michael Livingstone, Senior Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We are so proud to receive Sir Nils’ updated world record title.

“He was promoted to Major General in recognition of his good conduct and for being a superb example for the rest of our penguins.

“It is an incredible privilege to not only work with a knighted penguin, but a Guinness World Records title holder as well.”

Craig Glenday, Editor in Chief at Guinness World Records, said: “I’ve been lucky enough to encounter a number of Knights in my time at Guinness World Records – Sir Richard Branson, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Sir Christopher Lee, to name just three – but only one could swim to a depth of 50 metres at eight miles an hour with a mouthful of fish.

“Sir Nils is member of a rare club of creatures that have been promoted to positions of seniority, alongside the likes of Reserve Deputy Sherrif Bert the camel, Major Perseus the horse, Lance Corporal Derby the sheep and Master Corporal Juno the bear.

“I am greatly honoured to be able to confer on to Sir Nils another promotion, upgrading his Guinness World Records title to reflect his exalted position as Major General.”

His Majesty the King’s Guard Band and Drill Team of Norway visited the zoo in August to promote the king penguin to the third highest rank in the Norwegian armed forces, Major General. Following an inspection of 160 uniformed soldiers, Sir Nils was awarded his new badge of honour at a special ceremony.

Sir Nils Olav is named after two people, Major Nils Egelien, who organised his adoption by the army in 1972, and the then-King of Norway, King Olav V. The special penguin has a more recent connection with Norwegian royalty after being made a knight and Baron of the Bouvet Islands in 2008 by King Harald V.

Visitors to Edinburgh Zoo can find the world record holder, Sir Nils, at Penguins’ Rock where he lives with four other king penguins and over 100 gentoo and Northern rockhoppers.

UniqueAssembly, the organisers of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, have announced on Thursday that Björn Again the parody ABBA show will headline the Night Afore Disco Party in Edinburgh.

In addition there will be a four day long party with the New Year’s Revels at Assembly Rooms on George Street.

Everyone will be dancing to the music of the Swedish tribute band on 30 December when they appear on the stage at Princes Street Gardens. Australian entertainers Björn Again have performed more than 5,500 times in 72 countries and first appeared in the capital at Hogmanay in 2000/01.

The Night Afore Disco Party with Björn Again and Massaoke will take place on Saturday 30 December, 6.30 – 10.00pm in West Princes Street Gardens, Doors 17.30. The live singalong band Massaoke will be the support act to laud the 30 years of Hogmanay with some hairbrush anthems.

The DJ Ewen Cameron from Greatest Hits Radio will keep the evening together with his own brand of chat for the singalong party evening.

Founding member of Björn Again, Rod Stephen, said: “I have toured the Björn Again show around the world since the late 1980s. There have been many shows with amazingly responsive audiences but I don’t think you can ever top an Edinburgh Hogmanay crowd. These guys are just on a whole different level. I can’t wait to see this again!”

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day said: “It’s fantastic to see another great addition to this year’s already stellar lineup for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. I’m sure that Björn Again will make sure that there are no shortage of dancing queens when they take to the stage for the Night Afore Disco Party in Princes Street Gardens.

“This year there is a new four-day programme of events for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay at the Assembly Rooms which is really exciting. I’m really proud that we’re able to offer such an exciting and eclectic programme for our residents and visitors as part of our Winter Festivals celebrations.”

A new four day programme of indoor events will include the Assembly Rooms which will become Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival Club and its packed programme of live music, comedy, dancing and family events.

Events at the Festival Club will include:

• 29 December Ho-Ho-Hogmanay – a live comedy show
• 30 December Night Afore Hoolie with Blue Rose Code, Bairns New Year Revels
• Hogmanay – New Year Revels
• New Year’s Day – a programme of free live music and ceilidh dancing will be part of the First Footin’ culture trail.

On Hogmanay Massaoke will provide the inspiration to get the audience singing their way into 2024 at the Midnight Moment.

During the day there will be Bairns New Year Revels when young people have a chance to join in the family friendly show with Massaoke and a ceilidh.

And on Hogmanay there will be a Candlelit Concert at St Giles’ Cathedral heralding the 900th year of the High Kirk with the first three cantatas from J.S.Bach’s Christmas Oratorio from 6.30 to 8.00pm. Doors at 6pm.

Tickets and further information for these 30^th Anniversary events will be available from 10.00am on Friday 6 October. 

Tickets for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay world-famous Street Party and Concert in the Gardens with Pulp are available now.

www.edinburghshogmanay.com

Edinburgh based producers Unique Events & Assembly Festival collaborated in 2022 to form UniqueAssembly, and are contracted to create and produce the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival until 2024. 

Businessman William Gray Muir has stepped down as Chair of the Royal High School Preservation Trust just as it is announced that revised plans to create a National Centre for Music and Concert Hall in the building on Regent Road are being drafted.

The history of the building is long and tortuous, and came to an abrupt stop recently when it was announced that St Mary’s Music School would not be moving from their extensive West End premises to the East end. The reasons were said to be financial. The building has now been empty for almost 60 years since the Royal High School itself moved out to a new campus in Barnton.

The project is directed by The Royal High School Preservation Trust (RHSPT) set up to do just that – preserve the council-owned building for the future who are now tenants in a long lease from the council. Meantime uses have included storage of ballot boxes and as a one off venue for Hidden Door Festival. The National Centre for Music element was always included in the Music School plans but now it will become the sole use. In terms of the lease entered into between RHSPT and the council there has to be an educational element.

In an earlier statement RHSPT said: “Under criteria set by City of Edinburgh Council, any proposals for the future of the building had to ensure a sustainable long-term future for the old Royal High School and be of the highest architectural quality. 

“Councillors agreed in October 2021 that the RSHPT’s plan to create a new National Centre for Music on the site amply fulfilled those criteria, while offering a shared vision for the creation of a new platform for musical collaborations, both within the building, online and out in the wider community.”

Plans will show a 300 seat concert hall with performance, rehearsal and break out spaces. New public gardens and a restaurant café are also included.

With a new chair the building will no longer be the venue for a private music school for less than a hundred pupils and instead will be offered for public use. The £45 million financial backing (with a further endowment of £10 million towards running costs) comes from Carol Grigor of Dunard Fund who is also contributing multi millions to the new Concert Hall just off St Andrew Square.

Ms Grigor said: “The National Centre for Music will take its place confidently in Edinburgh’s cultural landscape, building on the city’s world-leading strengths as a UNESCO World Heritage City, a Festival City and a forward-looking city that creates opportunity. Dunard Fund is delighted to fund such a culturally significant project and one that will leave a lasting legacy not just for the Edinburgh region but for Scotland as a whole.”

Colin Liddell, trustee added: “Dunard Fund and the Board are very grateful to Willie Gray Muir for his leadership in creating the amazing opportunity and setting our vision for the future.”

Grant Mackenzie, CEO of the Royal High School Preservation Trust said: “Our aspiration is for the National Centre for Music to become a world leading cultural venue for musicians, no matter their background. The new National Centre for Music will engage teachers, community music organisations and professional performers to inspire the joy of music, nurture skills and foster innovation. Thanks to the generosity of Dunard Fund, we’re progressing to make this vision a reality.”

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “We are aware of the proposed change to the scheme and remain supportive of a project which will preserve a key historical building in the city.”

New plans will be lodged with the council in early 2024.

Spartans FC has received support from Howdens and The Scottish Football Association in the form of a new kitchen at the club.

In the £3 million Game Changer programme the trade kitchen company Howdens will provide grassroots clubs with improved clubhouse facilities, aiming to bring communities closer together. Founded in 1995 Howdens has depots all over the country and supplies kitchens, flooring, joinery and hardware.

Spartans FC is one of 450 clubs which will benefit from the improvements.

Home to the Spartans Men’s, Women’s, under 20’s, National performance teams and 29 youth teams, the Foundation was chosen due to its commitment to make a difference in the local area. Under the umbrella of the Spartans family, the site also hosts the largest para-football section in Scotland, Spartans Connections. In addition to their football development delivery, Spartans Community Foundation, the charitable arm of Spartans FC, provides free meals to everyone within their education and youth programmes. 

Daniel Gerrard, Commercial and Partnerships Manager at Spartans Community Foundation said: “Pilton in Edinburgh is home to some of the most disadvantaged areas in the UK and food poverty is still a big issue here. For some children, their school meal is often the main meal of the day. With our new kitchen from Howdens, we will be able to continue supporting those children when they’re not at school with our weekend FooTea, Breakfast clubs and fun-fuelled holiday clubs.

“Spartans Community Foundation not only supports football and para football teams, but the wider community too. Our motto is ‘here for good’ and we exist to make a positive impact in North Edinburgh. Our programme’s focus is on education, youth work, physical and mental well-being with a host of activities taking place throughout the week. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has caused increasing demand for our services and is one of the reasons we always provide a nutritious meal at every one of our clubs. The new kitchen from Howdens will be a real boost, it will allow us to keep up with demand and to continue providing meals for all who need them.” 

Miller Gillespie, Depot Manager, Howdens Edinburgh, added: “An important part of what we do at Howdens is aiming to make a positive impact on local communities, which is why we are delighted to be able to support Spartans Community Foundation.

“There is a lot of attention on grassroots football and what happens on the pitch, but we believe that the off-pitch facilities are just as important. Clubhouses are often the hub of the community, which is why we’re incredibly excited to see the new installation once it’s complete and how it will benefit the club.”

The work will begin later this year.

NuGen Waste Property Clearance & Recycling will hold its 11th Salvage Yard Day on 7 October at the Midlothian Innovation Centre in Roslin.

The event will offer a diverse range of vintage furniture, collectibles, household essentials and bric-a-brac at unbeatable prices, with profit from the sale passed on to supporting local charities, food banks and community projects.

Based in Edinburgh, NuGen Property Clearance & Recycling has been dedicated in its commitment to sustainable waste management practices. NuGen Waste Recycling is committed to Scotland’s Net Zero targets by:

• Operating with a ‘zero to landfill’ philosophy
• Salvaging items from property clearances
• Harnessing waste for renewable energy

The company’s commitment extends beyond their operational practices. They collaborate closely with charitable organisations and non-profits to divert items away from landfills and into new homes. This dual effort not only minimises waste but also supports local communities and bolsters social welfare.

“We are thrilled to host our 11th Salvage Yard Day and invite everyone to join us for this unique event,” said Andrew Irvine, founder of NuGen Waste Recycling. “Not only will you find great deals on quality items, but you will also help us make a positive impact on our community and our planet.”

Join the Movement: Salvage Yard Day

The Salvage Yard Day will offer:

• A diverse range of furniture, accessories, and collectibles at unbeatable prices
• A chance to align your values with your actions and embrace sustainable living
• A direct impact on local communities and environmental initiatives

www.nugenwaste.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/Nugenwaste

Scotland’s hopes in the EuroHockey League (EHL) in Barcelona this weekend are with Western Wildcats and they face T J Pizen Litice in their opening match on Saturday (13.15). Coach Steven Percy believes it is a “dream draw”.

Percy acknowledged that it will be a difficult game but also very winnable and added: “So, it is a great opportunity to get a first win at the European Hockey League.”

The second game, he said, will be much tougher and added: “It’ll be a glamour tie against Kampong or Bleomendaal, two top Dutch teams who contain world class players and icons of our sport.

“Success at the EHL would be at least one victory and a competitive nature to our performances.”

Western go into Europe’s elite club tournament after a disappointing home defeat to Scottish champions, Grange, last weekend, scoring their consolation goal late in the game from Fraser Moran from a penalty stroke.

The Auchenhowie-based combine travel minus two players, AJ Lochrin who broke his collar bone in pre-season, and Hamish Galt who is taking a break from hockey but is due to return to action in November. 

They have also lost striker Andrew McConnell to German club Harvestehauder but everyone else is available including new recruits Iain McFadden, Craig Wallace and Fabian Goldie.

T J Pizen Litice are the 82nd club to compete in the league and only the second from the Czech Republic but they come into the competition as double winners in their native country.

The club, coached by Tomas Levy, a job he has held for five years, won the national indoor and outdoor titles and and they are in-form having won their four league games so far this season, claiming 26 goals in the process.

And they have left nothing to chance as they hosted a pre-season camp in Germany to held in their build-up to the EuroHockey League.

Reinhard Nicklas knows something about Scottish hockey having played North of the Border as well as in Italy and Belgium.

Adam Uhlir skippers the side and he doubles as captain of the Czech Republic side and he has twice been named best outdoor player in the Czech Republic.

Jakub Korytak has previously played in England and Italy and has European tournament experience and has also played in the world indoor.

Lukas Bendra captained the country’s under-21 side and they have recently recruited Slovakian international Adrian Augustinic. 

PICTURE: Action from Erskine Stewart’s Melville v Western Wildcats last season. By Nigel Duncan   

Tech firm strikes major deal to leap towards Southeast Asian market

A Scottish health tech firm has partnered with one of the top aesthetic equipment distributors in Singapore to expand the global reach of its innovative microwave device.

Since launching Swift® in 2016 for the treatment of stubborn skin lesions, Emblation has secured distribution agreements across 24 different countries, with Servicom Medical (Singapore) Pte Ltd marking the first of its Southeast Asian partners.

Adina Joanne, CEO of Servicom Medical said: “With Swift®‘s significant success across other regions, we were eager to offer the device to our clinicians in Singapore, who were keen to get their hands on it.

“We believe Swift® answers a serious need for patients suffering from stubborn skin conditions and will be a perfect addition to our portfolio.”

The agreement with Servicom Medical signals the launch of Swift® in Southeast Asia, while already available in clinics across the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and mainland Europe.

Jonathan Williamson, Chief Commercial Officer of Emblation said: “With a growing global footprint, our expansion into Asia needs to be led by partners with experience of bringing market-leading products to the local region.

“Servicom Medical has been innovative in its field, sharing revolutionary medical advancements in one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, so there really was no place better to fly the first Swift® flag in Asia.”

Emblation’s growth has led to more than 1200 Swift® systems in place worldwide, with over 280,000 treatments carried out.

The firm is also growing its research and development capability to build on promising early results which could result in breakthroughs in the treatment of skin cancers and pre-cancers.

Jonathan added: “As a company, we have gone from strength to strength and this is just the start. Singapore is yet another development in our steps towards international expansion.

“Major new distribution deals, clinical partnerships and other opportunities are progressing quickly across Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

“We are also awaiting regulatory approval to launch in several other Asian markets – it’s a really exciting time for Emblation.”

Emblation was founded in 2008 by Gary Beale and Eamon McErlean, who met during post-graduate studies at University in Edinburgh.

They were both driven to create more accessible, reliable and compact medical microwave systems and to develop therapies that could be used in dermatology and podiatry to overcome the shortfalls in traditional treatments for skin lesions. They went on to launch Swift® in 2016, as a radical new treatment in the podiatry sector.

In May 2021, the firm secured major second round investment from London based specialist healthcare investors, Apposite Capital with their eight-figure injection of capital already seeing headcount growth of more than 50%, with staff numbers expecting to double again in the next 18 months.

Currently based in Central Scotland, the firm is in the process of fitting out a new purpose-built, 20,000 sq ft headquarters at Castle Business Park against the idyllic backdrop of Stirling Castle, which is due to open later this year.

https://emblation.com

Leith Comedy Festival

Three years late, eventually this weekend the Leith Comedy Festival takes place all around Leith in different venues. There will be walking tours, an Opening Night Gala at Leith Arches, an introduction to Laughter Yoga and after many other events a Closing Night Gala at the Biscuit Factory.

At the opening evening gala Billy Kirkwood will be the host of a show featuring among others, Joe McTernan and Marjolein Robertson.

On Saturday there is a family event for everyone to enjoy a good laugh. Soup Group begins at 3.30pm at Leith Depot. Tickets here.

While some one-off events have taken place this is the first proper weekend festival.

Comedy for good. Laughter for all.

Sign up to a gardening group

The gardening group which meets at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre is looking for new members.

Turn up from 1pm on Mondays. Scan the QR code on the poster for a map.

Edinburgh Community Food AGM

The Edinburgh Community Food AGM will be held on 10 October from 11.30am until 1.30pm at Out of the Blue Drill Hall on Dalmeny Street.

This organisation is a food and health charity which puts on cooking courses, hygiene and nutrition training, fruit and veg sales.

Everyone is welcome. booking of free places is essential.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/edinburgh-community-food-agm-2023-tickets-705830878157?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR32ftdS3uCl1pJcBiAu9UqwyVOC7DVDeYZf6s5G1Gc-1lSACNhCicPBGug

Something for Monday

Edinburgh and Lothians Greenspace Trust would like to take you on a bat walk on Monday 9 October at 6pm. Meet at the playpark at 6pm.

Subscribe to The Edinburgh Reporter

Our October issue is now published. You may subscribe to receive your own copy by mail by clicking on the image below.

Three years late, eventually this weekend the Leith Comedy Festival will take place all around Leith in several different venues.

There will be walking tours, an Opening Night Gala at Leith Arches, an introduction to Laughter Yoga and after many other events a Closing Night Gala at the Biscuit Factory.

At the opening evening gala Billy Kirkwood will be the host of a show featuring among others, Joe McTernan and Marjolein Robertson.

Rosalind Romer, Director of Leith Comedy Festival said: “I’m so excited the first weekend Leith Comedy Festival is finally happening. I have been planning it for so long, and all the events I put on during the pandemic have been leading up to this. The Leith community has been so supportive, and I believe the programme reflects the creativity and humour of Leith. They’ll be the first to tell me if it doesn’t.”

Life is expensive at the moment so it’s important that there are pay-what-you-can tickets for every show. Organisers are encouraging those who can afford it to use the pay-it-forward option when buying tickets. This creates more pay-what-you-can tickets across the whole festival.

This festival has been built from the ground up from within the community, rather than picking a place and bringing in some comedy. This festival only works in Leith. The suppliers are here. The profits stay here, in Leith itself where possible.

Leith Comedy Festival has been made possible by the support of The National Lottery through Creative Scotland and Firstport.

Head of Theatre at Creative Scotland, Laura Mackenzie-Stuart, said: “Events such as Leith Comedy Festival which are firmly rooted in their local community are the bedrock of cultural celebration.  More than ever, we are drawn to live performance in the company of others, energised by the collective experience.  

“Thanks to support from The National Lottery players, Leith Comedy Festival’s programme has something for all ages, whether that’s discovering the latest comedy talent, diving into a session of laughter yoga or teaming up for a themed quiz night.  This showcases the variety of activity and local-level investment that the Creative Scotland Open Fund supports throughout the year.” 

On Saturday there is a family event for everyone to enjoy a good laugh. Soup Group begins at 3.30pm at Leith Depot. Tickets here.

While some one-off events have taken place this is the first proper weekend festival.

Comedy for good. Laughter for all.

https://www.leithcomedyfest.com

Leith Comedy Festival Programme

Abandoned World War One premises in South Queensferry which have stunning views of the bridges, will be converted into nearly 50 new affordable homes.

Work will begin to redevelop buildings at the derelict naval base at Port Edgar, under the Queensferry Crossing, after the plans were given the go-ahead by councillors.

As part of the project the old guard’s house will be turned into a serviced holiday apartment, while the former air raid shelter will become a ‘children’s play feature’ in a bid to retain elements of the site’s historical significance.

Some small buildings will be demolished to achieve an “acceptable residential layout” however all the main two-storey accommodation blocks will be kept in place and renovated to form 49 mid-market flats and a ‘café/restaurant’.

The brick built barracks were in use by the navy until 1927 and thereafter were repurposed as a holiday camp for unemployed people, a minesweeper training base, storage and assembly for the construction of the Forth Road Bridge until it was completed in 1964, and a storage site for the Museum of Scotland before it was completely vacated while the Queensferry Crossing was built. The site has also been “subject to vandalism”.

Developers Lar Housing based in Dunfermline, which specialises in providing “affordable rent housing specifically in high demand areas”, said it had held discussions with the police about installing “temporary measures” to address “historic anti-social behaviour in and around the site”. The company was set up in 2015 with government funding and is now chaired by former MSP and Presiding Officer, Ken Macintosh.

In plans lodged with the council the company said all the two-storey accommodation blocks were “of robust construction” and “in reasonable structural condition”.

It added: “The site and existing buildings have been carefully analysed and the design carried out to achieve a successful residential development by reusing the existing buildings, prioritising retention of listed buildings in favour of demolition and new buildings.

“The selective demolition is proposed only where absolutely necessary to meet the requirements of the Edinburgh Design guide to make a successful residential use of the site.

“Lar has received extremely positive feedback so far from the local community, local, and national organisations for the proposed redevelopment of this site.

“As a conversion of existing derelict buildings, this site can be delivered in much shorter time-scales than new-build developments, which will assist in the much needed delivery of new, affordable, energy efficient homes, whilst delivering green homes by removing carbon emissions from construction by retaining the embodied carbon in the existing buildings rather than demolishing and constructing new buildings.”

Council planners recommended the plans for approval with a direction that the developers pay nearly £800,000 towards local education, healthcare and transport infrastructure.

Councillors on the Development Management Sub-Committee unanimously granted planning permission on Wednesday.

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Scottish Premiership: women: Friday: Grange Edinburgh Ladies v The University of Edinburgh (20.00, Fettes Playing Fields); Western Wildcats v Clydesdale Western (20.15, Auchenhowie).

Saturday: GHK v Gordonians; Watsonians v University of St Andrews; Hillhead v Inverleith (15.30); Uddingston v Glasgow University (16.00, Uddingston Cricket and Sports Club).

Early action this weekend for The University of Edinburgh who travel to Grange Edinburgh Ladies at Fettes Playing Fields on Friday (20.00) while Western Wildcats host Clydesdale Western at Auchenhowie (20.15).

The students are fourth in the 12-strong table with six points from three games, winning two and losing the other, with 12 goals scored and four shipped.

Grange also have six points and and identical record but they have plundered 17 goals, the second highest total in the division, and let in three for third spot in the table.

Wildcats are second with nine points from three starts and have scored 14 goals and let in one and Clydesdale Western are seventh with three points having only played two games, winning one scoring two goals and losing two goals.

On Saturday, GHK host struggling Gordonians who have lost all three of their games and let in 30 goals and scoring five, second bottom Hillhead are in against third-bottom Inverleith in a key basement battle and fifth-placed Uddingston host Glasgow University who are eighth.

Pace-setting Watsonians host sixth-placed The University of St Andrews and the Edinburgh side, champions last season, have claimed 19 goals and lost only thee in their three games so far. St Andrews have three points having lost one and won won and have scored four and lost three goals.

Keith Smith, Watsonians coach, said that a number of players have missed training this week because of injury and illness and two are unavailable this weekend so it is unlikely the club will be at full-strength for the game.

PICTURES: taken at recent Watsonians game againt Gordonians. Pictures by Nigel Duncan

Scottish Premiership: Erskine Stewart’s Melville v Inverleith; Clydesdale v Grove Menzieshill; Dundee Wanderers v Watsonians (noon); Grange v Kelburne (13.00); Uddingston v The University of Edinburgh (14.00).

The University of Edinburgh can consolidate top spot in the men’s Premiership hockey if they beat Uddingston in Lanarkshire on Saturday and they go into the game with an unblemished four-game record.

Plus, the students are the top scoring side in the 12-strong division with 23 slammed into the opposition net in only four games. The university side have shipped three and they came last Saturday when they won 7-3 against a young Inverleith squad at Peffermill Playing Fields.

Uddingston are fourth in the table with two wins and two defeats so far having scored nine goals and let in six.

It’s been a busy week for the students who had a tough midweek clash with British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) against The University of Birmingham at Peffermill but coach Hamish Imrie has they firing.

They came back from 2-0 down against the Midlands combine, scoring in the final quarter, to draw.

Second-placed Grange are at home to struggling Kelburne on Saturday (13.00) at Fettes College and they have also won four straight to collect 12 points, scoring 12 goals and letting in six in the process.

Coach Stevie Grubb said they have a number of players returning from injury so selection will be challenging, but a nice challenge to have and he added: “We have been working on a few areas to strengthen our play going forward.”

Tenth-placed Kelburne are, however, boosted by their narrow 4-3 victory over FSEG Clydesdale last Saturday, a welcome three points against a side which went into the game on the back of a 2-1 win at Watsonians the previous Saturday.

Western Wildcats are third but they are on duty in the Euro Hockey League in Barcelona and so miss a Saturday while Watsonians, who are ninth travel to second-bottom Dundee Wanderers having lost three and won one so far.

Erskine Stewart’s Melville are seventh have lost their last two games and host city rivals Inverleith who are eighth with both teams having four points.

Paul Taylor, Inverleith’s coach, said that his men learned a lot from the first four games and he added: “We are looking to ensure that we build on these towards a positive result on Saturday.”

Fifth-placed Clydesdale who have six points host Tayside-based Grove Menzieshill who are one place and one point behind them.

Ciaran Crawford, Clydesdale’s coach, said: “We’re looking to bounce back after a disappointing result against Kelburne who defended well and took their chances.

“If we can convert the chances we make this weekend we will hopefully be finishing with a positive result.”

PICTURES: The University of Edinburgh v Inverleith at Peffermill. Pictures by Nigel Duncan

Tom Coolen, Fife Flyers’ head coach, has no injury worries ahead of Fife Flyers’ double-header with Dundee Stars in the Challenge Cup this weekend with the first game at Kirkcaldy on Saturday (19.15) and the return on Tayside on Sunday (17.00) with points critical in the race to see who can qualify for the knockout stages of the first major competition in the Elite League this season.

We popped into training to see what Flyers were up to and here are some pictures from Nigel Duncan

Mid-ice action. Picture Nigel Duncan

On the bawl: Head coach Tom Coolen on the ice directing training at The Fife Ice Arena. Picture by Nigel Duncan

A general view inside Fife’s atmospheric ice arena. Picture Nigel Duncan

In the aftermath of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s speech to the Conservative Party conference, cancelling the extension to the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail link, there may be some good news for Scotland.

The £36 billion which would have been spent on the High Speed rail link north of Birmingham will now be spent all over the UK.

Mr Sunak said: “We will deliver HS2 between Birmingham and Euston as planned but we will extend it no further.

“Instead we will take every pound that would have been spent extending HS2 and invest over £36 billion into Network North – a new programme of transport improvements that will benefit far more people, in far more places, far quicker.”

This is what Network North will mean north of the border:

In Scotland 

• Reducing congestion for the communities of Ashington, Felton, Alnwick, and Amble: by delivering the long-awaited upgrade to A1 coastal route between Newcastle, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Edinburgh.  
• Faster journey times, increased capacity, and more frequent, reliable services: Network North will build better connectivity across the North and Midlands. 
• Pinch points on the A75 solved: providing better links between the Cairnryan ferry terminals serving Northern Ireland and southwest Scotland. 
• Further investment in the M6 and Cumbria, and the A77 towards Glasgow.

The shared-use path along The Water of Leith has been upgraded, and has been declared officially open by Minister for Active Travel, Patrick Harvie.

The work was supported by funding from The Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Network Development Fund designed to encourage walking, cycling and wheeling. The project was led by Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust (ELGT) in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council. Other bodies involved included The Water of Leith Conservation Trust and The City of Edinburgh Council Natural Heritage Service.

Sections of the path had to be upgraded to enable everyone to use it. Many sections were very muddy and difficult to navigate along, and the new surface with new bridges should make that easier.

Approximately 6.7km of the path surface was upgraded on the National Cycle Network Route 75 (NCN75) from just upstream of the Union Canal at Lanark Road to Balerno. The construction was phased and uses a multi-use porous surface that will improve drainage and allow different users access during winter months and in adverse weather conditions. 

Another core focus of the project was sustainability. By incorporating a new innovative rubber crumb surface using more than 49,000 recycled tyres, the carbon footprint of the project was reduced by 1,097,087kg when compared to standard tire disposal methods.

As well as improving the drainage and quality of the path, the project also removed physical barriers to improve accessibility for everyone. This involved the re-design of 21 bollards, the removal of a chicane, and a new ramp to provide easy access to Lanark Road.

The NCN 75 links Scotland’s two largest cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow through Currie, Bathgate and Livingston. It is 158km long and runs from the Port of Leith to Gourock. Part of the route includes the UK’s largest continuous mural at the Colinton Tunnel, which has led to increased use of the route.

The path runs along the unique Water of Leith green corridor past several cultural and historical sites and will improve the links to the path network in the area.

Charlie Cumming, Chief Executive, Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust said: “ELGT are delighted to have completed the upgrading of the path that will enable more people to benefit from accessing a wonderful walkway which links the city to the countryside and surrounding hills. The improved surface provides everyone a great way to explore the local area and will bring communities across the city and beyond together. The trail offers the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors to get out, exercise and try something new while enjoying some fresh air along the route of the Water of Leith, whether it is completing the entire length, or some of the more local circular routes”.

Chris Brace, Senior Network Delivery Manager at Sustrans Scotland said: ‘We are delighted to see the completion of a major upgrade to a section of Route 75 on the National Cycle Network.

“The new surfacing and sustainable measures ensure that walking, wheeling, and cycling can be an attractive and enjoyable option year-round, reaffirming our commitment to providing accessible infrastructure for everyone.

“We hope the new shared-use path will be a vital amenity for the local community in Edinburgh West, making it easier and safer for everyone to make healthier, happier and more sustainable choices for their everyday journeys”. 

Minister for Active Travel Patrick Harvie said: “I’m pleased to see the improvements to the Water of Leith path, which is part of the National Cycle Network route 75. Over £1.7 million from the Scottish Government has been invested here to make walking, wheeling and cycling easier for all and I know the path is particularly popular for families and people undertaking more leisurely journeys. 

“During Scotland’s Climate Week, it’s particularly welcome to see that almost 50,000 old tyres have now been reused to make the new path.

“These improvements have been delivered as part of our record funding for active travel this year. For our health, wellbeing and environment, the Scottish Government has committed to invest £320 million to support make walking, wheeling and cycling easier for shorter everyday journeys.”

Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “I’m really pleased to see this section upgraded and resurfaced for everyone to enjoy. This is already a popular path – in part thanks to the addition of the wonderful Colinton Tunnel mural – and the improvements will help even more people to benefit from a safe, off-road walking and cycling route. 

 “This accessible and attractive path not only links to our extensive network of paths, and further afield to the west of the country, but also lets people enjoy the biodiversity and wildlife along the Water of Leith green corridor.”

Helen Brown, Trust Manager, Water of Leith Trust said: “The improved access along the Water of Leith Walkway will hopefully mean it can be enjoyed by all and our volunteer team will have less maintenance work to carry out. The use of recycled materials is a bonus and makes for a flexible permeable surface”.

Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with a number of break-ins and thefts at premises in Edinburgh.

The men, aged 42 and 29 were arrested and charged in connection with a number of incidents dating from 25 August to 1 October, 2023.

They are due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Detective Constable David Sandison said: “I would like to thank the public for all their help and support during our enquiries. We appreciate the impact this has had on the local community and we will continue to tackle these crimes.”

Jack O’ Bryan’s bar and kitchen in Dunfermline is well worth a trip over the Queensferry Crossing to Fife close to Dunfermline Abbey in the centre of the town.

Head chef Jack Coghill runs the restaurant – which specialises in Iberian food with South American and Asian twists, prepared with the finest Scottish ingredients.

Jack, an accomplished head chef at just 23, is also a skilled chocolatier and pastry chef while his father Bryan who trained him is writing a family cookbook, detailing 40 years of favourite recipes and he provides this midweek recipe for delicious Singapore crab.

Singapore Crab Serves 4

8 Large Cooked Crab Claws from a good quality Fishmonger

1 Large White Onion
1 Green pepper
1 Red pepper
6 Garlic cloves
2 tbs mixed herbs
2 tbs white wine vinegar
2 Veg bouillon stock cubes
2 400g tins of tomatoes
1 handful of fresh coriander
1 handful of fresh basil
2 tsp of red curry paste /add more if more heat is preferred.
2 tbs brown sugar
Salt & Pepper to season
1 Vietnamese Rice Paper
1 Small tin of Crab meat
1 Artisan Crusty Baguette or Sourdough

METHOD

In a medium to large pot sweat off the garlic, onions and peppers until soft. Then add the preferred amount of red curry paste starting with 2 tsp first, then the mixed herbs, white wine vinegar and tomatoes. Lastly adding the stock cubes and the brown sugar. Simmer this for around 30 minutes or until it resembles a thickish stew.
While the sauce is cooking prepare the Crab claws, doing this by gently evenly cracking open the shells with a small hammer, lobster crackers or with the back of a large kitchen knife, once this is done set the claws aside and prepare the rice paper garnish.
Heat the vegetable oil up to 180°C then fry the rice paper in an electric fryer for around 5 seconds each side this will resemble a prawn cracker then drain on some kitchen paper.
Once the sauce resembles a stew, blend it down with a hand blender until the sauce is of a smooth consistency, season to taste with salt & pepper and add a good handful of chopped coriander and a good handful of ripped basil leaves, leaving some for the end garnish, add more red curry paste if you prefer more heat. (Chefs tip, remember for a good spicy sauce you should taste all the ingredients first with the heat coming in at the very end).
Into the Singapore Sauce add the Crab Claws so that the claws are covered by the sauce, place the pot with a lid back onto the cooker and gently heat up to a simmer for around 5 minutes. Then take off the heat and add the tinned crab meat and the remaining basil and chopped coriander.
To serve, place all of the ingredients in a warmed serving dish of your choice with garnish, or if it’s a midweek supper just serve in the pot, with oven warmed artisan bread to mop up all that delicious sauce.
Accompany with a glass of a good quality Riesling and enjoy.

© Jack ’O’ Bryan’s Cookbook

www.jackobryans.com

Peter Johnstone is used to appearing on the Queen’s Hall stage but the concert he’s playing at the Clerk Street venue on Friday 20 October is a bit different from usual.

The award-winning keyboardist, who plays piano with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, will be focusing on Hammond organ in a new “dream team” of world class jazz talents that features New York-based vibes virtuoso Joe Locke, saxophonist Tommy Smith and drummer Alyn Cosker.

The Queen’s Hall date is part of a tour that also calls into Aberdeen, Glasgow, Perth and Ambleside before heading to London where the quartet plays at the iconic Ronnie Scott’s jazz club on Tuesday 24 October.

A graduate of the jazz course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Johnstone won the Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year title in 2012 and went on to win the prestigious Peter Whittingham Jazz Prize with the band Square One in 2015. He is also the recipient of a Yamaha Scholarship.

The musicians in his International Organ Quartet are all players Johnstone has enjoyed working with previously. He invited Locke, widely recognised as one of the world’s leading vibes players, to join the group after they shared stages during concerts with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra.

“Joe’s always so positive,” says Johnstone. “When I started writing for a new quartet, I could hear organ and vibes working well together in my imagination. So I got in touch with Joe and he immediately agreed to come on board.”

Johnstone already works regularly with Tommy Smith, both in the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, which Smith directs, and in a saxophone-piano duo, and he and Alyn Cosker also work together in the SNJO and other groups.

“Joe, Tommy and Alyn bring a fantastic range of experience to the group,” says Johnstone. “Joe has played with everyone from the master jazz pianist Kenny Barron to the Beastie Boys. Tommy has an incredible CV. His international reputation attracts world leading jazz musicians to work with the SNJO, and Alyn is so versatile, he can play in any style of music, not just any style of jazz. I’m really looking forward to hearing what we sound like together.”

Glasgow Tigers team manager Cami Brown said his men showed great “character” to reach the Championship Grand Final thanks to a 52-38 victory over Oxford Cheetas in the Cab Direct Championship play-off, Group B.

The Allied Vehicles Tigers grabbed the vital aggregate bonus point by 92 points to 88 at Ashfield and Glasgow have now reached their third Grand Final in four years and are scheduled to face defending champions Poole in the first-leg at Ashfield on Friday (7.30pm).

Brown said: “We had a team meeting just before Heat 11. I said to the boys we need four heat advantages. We can do this, we’ve done it all season. 

“To be honest, I didn’t see us getting a 5-1s in Heat 12 and 13. Before we knew it, we were in the box seat. Oxford rode really well all night. Towards the end they wobbled a tad because that was the first time we had put pressure on them over the two ties.” 

He added: “They played Scott Nicholls early in the rider replacement. It certainly didn’t backfire because they got the 5-1 but it perhaps made them weaker later in the meeting. 

“We never gave up. This team never gives in. They have proved they have the character to go all the way.” 

Now the Tigers have another clash with the Pirates who beat them in the 2021 Grand Final and last year’s semi-final and Brown added: “This is only half the job. There’s no more emotion now. It’s about getting the final push right. We’ve got a few days before the home leg. Then we need to focus on doing the same job to Poole. 

“Winning the league is everything. That’s the ultimate goal. We now need one final push.” 

GLASGOW 52: Benjamin Basso 13, Tom Brennan 11+1, Chris Harris 10+2, Lee Complin 9+4, Vadim Tarasenko 8, Ace Pijper 1.

OXFORD 38: Scott Nicholls 13+1, Sam Masters 8+1, Lewis Kerr 6+1, Cameron Heeps 5, Henry Atkins 4, Ashton Boughen 2+1.

PICTUER: Tom Brennan leads Scott Nicholls. Picture by Taylor Lanning. 

Have your SAY

The public can vote for the artist of their choice on the longlist for the Scottish Album of the Year Awards (SAY) until midnight tonight.

The winner will receive a substantial prize of £20,000 to help them with their musical career. All artists who go through to the Shortlist will receive at least £1,000.

The list is:

Andrew Wasylyk Hearing The Water Before Seeing The Falls

Becky Sikasa Twelve Wooden Boxes

Bemz Nova’s Dad

Brìghde Chaimbeul Carry Them With Us

Brooke Combe Black Is the New Gold

Brownbear Demons

Cloth Secret Measure

Comfort What’s Bad Enough?

Eyes of Others Eyes of Others

Free Love Inside

Hamish Hawk Angel Numbers

Joesef Permanent Damage

Juliette Lemoine Soaring

Kapil Seshasayee Laal

LVRA Soft Like Steel

Paolo Nutini Last Night in the Bittersweet

Scott William Urquhart & Constant Follower Even Days Dissolve

The Snuts Burn The Empire

Su-a Lee Dialogues

Young Fathers Heavy Heavy

Fans can vote for free, once per person, at www.sayaward.com until midnight Wednesday 4 October. 

this year’s judging panel, chaired by esteemed culture journalist Arusa Qureshi, also recently announced as Summerhall’s new Music Programme Manager.

Robert Kilpatrick, Interim CEO and Creative Director of the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) said, “The SAY Award public vote is the chance for music fans to have their SAY in the determination of the Shortlist. From the 20 outstanding Scottish albums that made this year’s Longlist, the public’s choice will automatically be guaranteed a place in the 10-strong Shortlist along with a minimum prize of £1,000.

“In any year prize money is important for artists, but as Scotland’s music industry faces yet another devastating blow with the recently announced Government cuts to culture funding, The SAY Award prize fund remains vitally important as wider support erodes at an alarming rate. The myriad of financial challenges currently facing the sector is impacting artists at all levels, so now’s the time to get behind your favourite Longlisted record and secure its place in the Shortlist.

“The SAY Award winner will receive a £20,000 prize, and the SMIA is proud of its ongoing key commitment to the value of music in Scotland; made possible through the support of our long-term partners Creative Scotland. Best of luck to each of this year’s nominees – we eagerly anticipate which records will make the Shortlist, and we look forward to the exclusive announcement of this year’s winner as we celebrate the cultural impact and contribution of incredible Scottish music at The SAY Award Ceremony later this month.”

This year’s judging panel is chaired by esteemed culture journalist Arusa Qureshi, who was recently announced as Summerhall’s new Music Programme Manager. The panel will choose the other nine albums on the shortlist.

Robert Kilpatrick, Interim CEO and Creative Director of the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) said, “The SAY Award public vote is the chance for music fans to have their SAY in the determination of the Shortlist. From the 20 outstanding Scottish albums that made this year’s Longlist, the public’s choice will automatically be guaranteed a place in the 10-strong Shortlist along with a minimum prize of £1,000.

“In any year prize money is important for artists, but as Scotland’s music industry faces yet another devastating blow with the recently announced Government cuts to culture funding, The SAY Award prize fund remains vitally important as wider support erodes at an alarming rate. The myriad of financial challenges currently facing the sector is impacting artists at all levels, so now’s the time to get behind your favourite Longlisted record and secure its place in the Shortlist.

“The SAY Award winner will receive a £20,000 prize, and the SMIA is proud of its ongoing key commitment to the value of music in Scotland; made possible through the support of our long-term partners Creative Scotland. Best of luck to each of this year’s nominees – we eagerly anticipate which records will make the Shortlist, and we look forward to the exclusive announcement of this year’s winner as we celebrate the cultural impact and contribution of incredible Scottish music at The SAY Award Ceremony later this month.”

The SAY Awards take place in Stirling on 26 October.

The SAY Award is a Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) production and has distributed over £330,000 in prize money to Scottish artists since its inception in 2012.

To skate or not to skate?

The council are running a consultation on what everyone would like to have in Leith Links and are particularly asking for views on the creation of a new outdoor city skatepark.

Read more here.

Planning news – Princes Street hotel set for approval

Proposals for a luxury hotel on Princes Street will be considered by the Development Management Sub Committee of The City of Edinburgh Council on Wednesday. Four major reports outlining the proposals for 104-108 Princes Street will be considered with plans for a 300-room hotel in the spaces previously occupied by Next, Zara, and Russell & Bromley. 

The reports recognise that within the proposals there is an opportunity to, ‘Preserve the special character and appearance of the Conservation Area’, and ‘..an opportunity for conservation gain’. The proposals have been subject to extensive public consultation and discussions with the council’s planners. 

This will be the first Ruby Hotel established in Edinburgh and will represent an investment in one of Scotland’s best known streets on Princes Street if approved.

Read more here.

Edinburgh Tenants Federation

The AGM of the Edinburgh Tenants Federation will be held on 20 October from 7pm at the Leonardo Murrayfield 187 Clermiston Road. Book a place by email – click the poster below.

Subscribe to The Edinburgh Reporter

Our October issue is now published. You may subscribe to receive your own copy by mail by clicking on the image below.

Five girls from Castlebrae who had the distinction of being on court at the same time when representing Scotland in a schools basketball international against England met up again at a reunion held in London Road Foundry Bowling Club

The star five are Pauline Sharp (now Jackson), Caroline Myles (now Leslie), Yvonne Strain (now Cairns), Lorraine Nichol (now Robertson) and Sonya Steedman (now Hall).

Not only did they share the Meadowbank spotlight in their under-15 international but they also helped produce a winning result for Scotland back in those heady days of the early 1970s.

Scottish Cup victories were a regular event at Castlebrae during schooldays and afterwards successes continued.

·       Pauline (front row, far right) is now a maths teacher and Depute Head at Drummond School.

·       Yvonne, (middle, 3^rd from right) concentrated on volleyball and gained international honours.

·       Lorraine (back row, left) played basketball for Scotland but retired early and switched to rugby union, playing for Scotland B.

·       Caroline (middle, front), played for Scotland Juniors.

·       Sonya played for the Scotland senior basketball team.

At the same time the Castlebrae boys reached the final of the Scottish under-15 cup with a side including Gordon McCubbin  and Stuart Baillie (pictured back row)  who went on to play senior club basketball

Not present for the re-union were Monty Montgomery also in that team, and the Cropley twins David and James who were in the Scottish Schoolboy under-15  squad.

 Former coach Toni Szifris recalled: “Castlebrae was a hotbed of sport in the ‘70s. The PE department was open morning, lunchtime and night. Basketball, volleyball , table tennis, football and  badminton were all popular and successful.

·       Keith Rodgers and Norman Love went on to play table tennis for Scotland seniors and Charlie Rodgers played Junior level.

·       Willie Davitt went on to play for the Scotland senior basketball team.

·       Alan McLaren (Hearts) played football for Scotland as did Keith Wright (Hibs). 

Teachers in the photo are Brian Findlay who coached football and basketball and Toni Szifris who later

moved to Portobello High School where they coached basketball and the teams there won many trophies at all age groups with the boys winning the Senior Cup six years on the trot  as did the senior girls.

There was also a re-union for an older (1972) Castlebrae age group held at the Jewel Miners Club this year and organised by Wayne Hutchison and Kim Sharp, sister of Pauline.

Professional services firm Pinsent Masons has strengthened its financial services offering in Scotland with the appointment of Legal Director, Caroline Whitten, who has joined from Sainsbury’s Bank.

Based in Edinburgh, consumer credit specialist Caroline will work alongside recently appointed insurance regulatory and commercial Legal Director, Chris Riach, who has rejoined Pinsent Masons after several years in-house with a large life insurer.

Pinsent Masons’ Edinburgh office in the financial district’s Capital Square is also home to the firm’s UK Head of asset management and investment funds practice, David Young, who is adding two associate lawyers to his team.

The financial services team is also bolstered by the addition of two newly qualified solicitors from the firm’s traineeship programme and the recent Financial Services sector appointment of Amie Bain as a pensions Partner in Glasgow.

The appointments mean Pinsent Masons will have 10 funds, insurance and financial services experts working from Edinburgh and Glasgow which are part of a 52-strong group advising financial services clients in the UK, Ireland, Luxembourg and Dubai.

Colin Read, Partner and Head of Regulatory, Insurance & Funds at Pinsent Masons, said: “We are delighted to welcome Caroline to the team and her extensive retail banking and regulatory expertise will undoubtedly improve our overall offering to financial services clients in Scotland and further afield.

“Together with the earlier appointment of Chris Riach in Edinburgh, this signals a clear commitment to strengthening our capabilities in what is a dynamic and competitive market. Our enlarged Scottish team also benefits from Pinsent Masons’ wider London and international presence as we support clients looking to explore global growth opportunities.”

The Scottish Newspaper Society has been renamed Newsbrands Scotland.

This means that for the first time in just over a century the body will not have the word newspaper in its name, indicating a move towards the digital output of news organisations.

Newsbrands Scotland reports that research from the news industry marketing body Newsworks indicates that people are 2.4 times more likely to find news brands reliable than social media, and three quarters believe it is important that their news comes from a “respected and recognised news provider”.

Mark Hollinshead the chief commercial officer of National World which owns The Scotsman and Edinburgh Evening News among others, is the first president of the newly named trade body.

Mr Hollinshead said: ““Our newsbrands reach more people than they ever did in the print-only days and the new name of our trade association reflects the multi-platform reality of the modern newsroom.

“Ever since the advent of the internet, Scottish news publishers have been evolving and innovating to keep their audiences well-served with up-to-the-minute, trusted information and analysis, and the audience figures speak for themselves.

“Scottish newsbrands keep communities across the country well-informed and connected, have a vital role to play in holding national and local politicians to account for the decisions they make, and are an essential means for services, businesses and charities to communicate with their users and customers.”

Newsbrands Scotland director, John McLellan, said “Our titles continue to provide a depth and breadth of coverage that few, if any, networks can match, and the fact that all our members are independently regulated is also vital for maintaining public trust.

“Readers want to know they are being provided with professionally produced news, and our commercial partners benefit because readers recognise they are in a trusted environment.

“News publishers also continue to support and train the journalists of the future, and it’s important for our name to reflect an industry that is always looking forward.”

The rebranding project was a collaborative effort across member companies, with the branding design produced by DC Thomson and the marketing campaign devised by National World, with input from News UK and Newsquest Scotland.

Mr McLellan added: “This was a very good example of publishers working together for the benefit of the whole sector in Scotland, whether society members or not.”

People in Edinburgh are invited to contribute their views on the creation of a new outdoor city skatepark as plans to transform a derelict bowling green begin to take shape.

A council consultation on making Leith Links a ‘flagship skatepark location’ has been launched ahead of designs being finalised.

The council would like to have feedback on a range of other ideas for the park including installing parkour equipment, a street gym, bike trail, basketball court and a ‘play area aimed at teenagers’.

Meanwhile the Links’ bowling pavilion will become a café with toilets and a community space as part of the project.

The survey is running until 21 October and follows engagement on the scheme last year which found that the ‘vast majority’ of respondents supported proposals to turn part of the disused bowling green into a ‘streetscape style skatepark’ which would also incorporate biodiversity enhancements.

The council said: “Designing the skatepark will require input from a specialist skatepark firm, but we will be working very closely with them and the Skatepark Working Group to help shape the ultimate design.

“The skating area is envisioned to be a flagship skatepark location within the city of Edinburgh.

“Taking inspiration from ‘streetscape’ style skateparks around the world, a key objective of the area will be to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere by integrating planting and seating across the space.

“A range of features, facilities and textures, will be used to encourage creative use of the skating space across a broad range of ages, skill levels and skating types.”

Other upgrades to the park could include a woodland walk, sheltered seating, mixed-age swings, bouldering rocks and an outdoor performance space.

The council said once feedback is collected on which designs should be progressed it will seek to secure the funding needed – and the timescale of the project will be determined on the availability of funding.

The survey can be filled out here.