An Edinburgh business owner has spoken out after his clothing shop was stolen by a balaclava-clad burglar, as concerns grow about a surge in local break-ins

David Ferguson, owner of the Andiamo clothing shop in Bruntsfield, said a burglar broke through the bottom pane of his shop door at 9pm on 1 March, escaping with the shop’s till.

He said: “The bottom pane of the door was kicked in, it was a smash and grab.

“The first thing I saw getting to the shop was the lights of two police cars. Thankfully, I came up with the keys, so they didn’t have to break the glass to get in.

“I’m concerned that it’s going on. Several other businesses in the area have been affected.”

CCTV images seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service showed the balaclava-clad thief kicking in the panel on the door, then escaping with the till, with a trail of receipt paper blowing in the wind from the machine as he ran.

Other businesses in the area have seen break-ins in recent weeks, including Japanese restaurant Aki, which saw £100 in cash and a company credit card taken from the till on 25 February.

The card was used at the Sainsbury’s in Bruntsfield soon after the break-in. The thief was caught by police soon after, but released on bail.

Marie-Clair Munro, the Conservative councillor for the local area, said: “I am horrified by the recent surge in break-ins. Such actions are unacceptable and have a detrimental impact on the livelihoods of our local businesses and the well-being of our residents.

“I will persist in raising this issue with the authorities and work towards implementing effective strategies to restore safety and peace to our community.

“These incidents have not only caused financial harm to business owners but have also instilled fear within the businesses. Residents and business proprietors deserve to feel secure in their daily lives, free from the threat of such disruptive behaviour.”

Under £100 was in the Andiamo register when it was taken, but the total cost of boarding the door, replacing the glass and buying a new till ran up to £600.

Several sets of shop keys were also taken, as were a customer credit card left behind, though the till itself was found dumped behind a nearby pharmacy.

Ferguson said that Police Scotland had advised him to purchase roller blinds or metal grids to cover his shopfront.

But he said that the cost of doing so would be prohibitive, and that it would harm the appearance of his business.

By Joseph Sullivan Local Democracy Reporter

City of Edinburgh councillor, local business owner, and community campaigner, Euan Hyslop, today announced his bid to become the SNP’s candidate for the newly configured Edinburgh Northern constituency for the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election.

He is a resident of the area with his partner and their four-year-old son, Euan believes he is well placed to represent local people in the area and that he is ready to make the case to the electorate that they should put their faith in him to represent their interests at Holyrood.

The SNP councillor’s commitment to Edinburgh Northern spans both his professional and personal life. As co-owner of a group of cafés in Edinburgh he says he has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of running a business in the constituency. Prior to being a councillor and running his own business he served as a support assistant in local schools, working with children with additional support needs, and later as a support worker guiding care-experienced young people toward independent living.

Euan said: “North Edinburgh isn’t just where my family and I live, it’s where I have chosen to build a business, it’s where my son attends nursery – and soon school – and it’s where I gained invaluable experience and precious memories supporting numerous wonderful young people with additional support needs as a pupil support assistant in two of our local schools.

“Too many families here are stretched to their limits by the cost-of-living crisis, and our communities deserve a representative who will fight relentlessly for their priorities. I’m ready to be that voice.

“Through my work in local schools and later as a support worker with young adults trying to live independently after leaving care I’ve had many experiences which have been a stark reminder of the devastating impact of poverty and child poverty in our communities here in north Edinburgh.

“Local people and families here deserve a representative that understands the day-to-day struggle and who will dedicate their energy to lifting our communities up, ending child poverty and creating opportunities for local people here.

“I started my first hospitality venture four years ago and my partner and I now have three cafés in the city. That professional, entrepreneurial journey has been incredibly challenging but the experience gives me first hand insight into the challenges that our small businesses and local high streets are facing here in the constituency. That is only going to get tougher in the immediate future with a bleak economic outlook for many local industries. Our business community here in north Edinburgh has to be supported by local representatives and national policymakers who understand the challenges they’re facing, I can offer that here.”

The nomination period for SNP candidates begins Monday 17 March with ballots due to go out to local members on the 21st of April with a deadline to submit votes by 5th of May.

“I’m asking SNP members in north Edinburgh to put their faith in me to be their candidate”.

Kate Campbell has announced she will stand for selection as SNP candidate in the Scottish parliamentary election next year in the Edinburgh Eastern, Musselburgh and Tranent constituency.

Ms Campbell became involved in the SNP ahead of the 2014 independence referendum and was first elected to the city council in 2017.

She has held several positions including Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener.

She said: “I’m excited to announce that I’m putting myself forward for selection to become the SNP candidate for Edinburgh Eastern, Musselburgh and Tranent. The next Holyrood elections will be critical to our journey towards independence and we need make sure we have a strong cohort of MSPs who will fight for our right to decide our own future.

“And with the damaging decisions being made at Westminster, punching down on some of the most vulnerable groups of people, we need MSPs who will do everything they can to prevent the harm being done by the Labour party to ordinary people in Scotland.

“I already represent a big chunk of the constituency, and I absolutely love the part of East Lothian that is being joined up with my council ward of Portobello Craigmillar – it’s an area I spend a lot of time in, usually going for long walks – so I was actually delighted when I saw the boundary changes – it’s a constituency I love and it would be privileged to represent.

“I also know that there have been a lot of prominent female MSPs standing down, and it’s vital that lots of new female MSPs come forward – it was a big incentive for me when weighing up whether to stand.”

The nomination period for SNP candidates begins on Monday 17 March with ballots due to go out to local members on the 21 April. The deadline for members to submit a vote is 5 May.

Fire on Sunday is latest in gang turf war

An early morning inferno at an Edinburgh garage is the third blaze in two weeks to be linked to a dangerous gangland vendetta.

Firefighters were called to the property at Milton Road East near Portobello early this morning after reports that a car repair business was ablaze.

The garage and the adjoined home is owned by an individual linked to a jailed gangster – as are two other properties which were set ablaze in Musselburgh and Leith.

Read more here

This morning residents on Milton Road East awoke to a third fire in Edinburgh in 10 days linked to two gangs – amid fears there could be more theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2025/03/thir…

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— The Edinburgh Reporter (@edinreporter.bsky.social) 16 March 2025 at 18:09

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Time for the Edinburgh South Sub?

Event tonight by Heriot Watt students who want to revive the Edinburgh South Sub

There will be a presentation on Monday 17 March at 7pm  at The Waiting Room pub just opposite Morningside Clock. This will be followed by a Q&A. 

Please notify the Heriot-Watt comms team on mediaenquiries@hwac.uk if you wish to attend. 

Read more here.

The Big Wheel – to be or not to be

There has been much talk over plans to extend the time the Big Wheel is sited in East Princes Street Gardens from three months to the period from 1 June 2025 to 3 January 2026.

The Edinburgh Reporter has been told that this was not an application as such, but an idea that event producers, UniqueAssembly, wanted to explore with the council to find out if it was viable. The viability of such a project would be relevant to both the council and the producers. Instead the council sent out details as though it was a planning application of some kind to various stakeholders.

A spokesperson for Unique Assembly said: “A proposal to discuss the feasibility to present the Edinburgh Big Wheel during summer was submitted through the Public Spaces Application process, but we appreciate there are many factors which need to be considered to see if this is a viable proposition for the city as a summer attraction.

“As part of our feasibility exercise, we await feedback from the application process next week, to see if there is any desire from The City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) for further dialogue.”

We heard from Tollcross Community Council, one of the stakeholders, who were contacted by the council about the idea, and the community council has lodged an objection with the department which deals with events in public spaces.

Their objection states that the construction of the big wheel would “seriously detract from the views” of listed buildings or national monuments and that to place such a structure of similar size next to the A listed Scott Monument would be “cultural vandalism”. In addition the community council feel that the loss of space for the public in East Princes Street Gardens for six months is “unacceptable”. They believe that to site the structure for this long is very different from the length of time it takes to set up and take down the Christmas structures which in all is about three months.

Read more here.

MPs debating WASPI compensation

MPs will have the opportunity later today to debate compensation for women affected by pension changes. All affected are asked to email their MP with their views and comments.

MPs will debate a petition relating to compensation for women affected by state pension changes.

• Watch the debate (from 4.30pm, Monday 17 March)
• Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).
• Follow the Committee on X

Roz Savage MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond. As this is a petition debate there will be no vote at the end – the intention is to get a response from the government.

Cyrenians Community Pantry

This takes place every Friday at Southside Community Centre 117 Nicolson Street from 10am to 11am. There is a £1 membership fee payable on the first visit and £2.50 per shop after that.

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce has come under fire for failing to take action over a debt-ridden business which was nominated for a top honour in its prestigious business awards.

The Capital’s leading business organisation dished out a Rising Star Award to Alexander Galpin in 2024, and at its glitzy 2025 ceremony held at the EICC on 27 February, his Luxford Burger chain was shortlisted as a potential winner in the High Growth Business of the Year category.

Mr Galpin, who operates two Luxford Burgers restaurants in Edinburgh, had earlier boasted: “Incredibly proud that we have been nominated for the High Growth Business of the Year by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce for the second year running! Let’s hope we smash it this year.”

But days before the awards ceremony, The Edinburgh Reporter revealed to the Chamber that Mr Galpin had crashed the parent company of Luxford Burgers with debts of almost £120,000 – including £78,000 due to HMRC for unpaid VAT and corporation tax.

Secure Kitchens Ltd was placed into liquidation on 9 January with debts of just under £135,000 due to 17 creditors including a number of small local suppliers. According to a report by the official liquidator, Begbies Traynor, the company had assets of £48,768 so the estimated deficit due to creditors was £118,869.

We asked Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce five times to comment on whether it was appropriate that Luxford Burgers was shortlisted in the awards, and if in light of the information provided would it review its award application procedures.

It took the Chamber of Commerce two weeks to respond – and then it passed the buck to “senior business figures” – who it said judge the awards independently. The Chamber claimed it had received no complaints or notes of issue.

However, one creditor listed in the Begbies Traynor report and who is owed thousands of pounds by Secure Kitchens Ltd, said: “I would have thought it should have been a prerequisite of any award nomination that a business should be financially and ethically sound. It is wrong that Luxford Burgers was shortlisted in these awards, especially when it has put other businesses in the area at a financial disadvantage.

“The fact this information was brought to the Chamber’s attention prior to the awards ceremony makes it worse.”

The creditor, who asked not to be named, added: “Alex Galpin seems to think it is ok to leave all this debt behind and carry on in the same premises under a similar trading name as if nothing has happened. There is no doubt he exudes an arrogant persona and does not lack confidence.”

The award nomination fiasco was also criticised by an ex-employee of Mr Galpin, who won an Employment Tribunal ruling against one of his other companies for unpaid wages.

The woman said: “It is unacceptable that individuals like him (Alexander Galpin) continue to operate businesses, win awards, and receive public recognition while their former employees struggle to get the wages they rightfully earned. He should be held accountable for his actions.”

Luxford Burgers was started from a shipping container in Leith in 2020 as a “click and collect” and delivery service before opening its first restaurant in St Leonard’s Street in March 2022. A second restaurant in Brandon Terrace opened last September and “dark kitchen” units operated in Glasgow, Manchester, Nottingham and Leeds.

Mr Galpin’s LinkedIn profile states he is Executive Director of hospitality management business Galpin Group which “owns and operates a portfolio of restaurants across the UK, with a combined gross turnover of £6m+ per annum”.

But behind the grandiose claims of a multi-million-pound business empire – and in addition to the publicly available information on the liquidation of Secure Kitchens Ltd liquidation – brutal reviews by customers and former employees paint a different picture.

Out of 33 customer reviews on the respected Tripadvisor site, more than half rated the burger business as “terrible” or “poor” with only one or two star ratings, while on the Indeed recruitment/employment website one ex-staffer who left a one star review said: “If I could give them zero stars I would.”

One Tripadvisor visitor last November pledged to “never go back” after “one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had”. Another in September 2024 said: “Grubby toilet – in fact the whole place, including staff, could do with a scrub”, while a third commented that they waited so long for service that they left before ordering any food: “Luxford – if you don’t like hospitality, you shouldn’t have opened your doors to guests – you should have remained as a dark kitchen and only sell on Deliveroo.”

Reviews on Indeed left by former members of staff were equally scathing with one stating: “No breaks, terminally understaffed, you won’t receive the correct training, your employment rights will be disregarded” before adding: “Hardest part of my job was not quitting as quickly as I wanted to – most enjoyable part was handing in my notice.”

A former front-of-house manager at the Canonmills restaurant said: “If you dare to stand up to the regular gaslighting from management, you can expect to be shown the door. If you value your well-being and self-worth, I urge you to think twice about applying.”

Another former employee in Leeds said the company culture and work environment was “toxic, disrespectful and uses staff like slaves”, adding the most stressful part about working for Luxford Burgers was “getting paid properly and on time”.

A statement from Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce said: “The Edinburgh Chamber Annual Business Awards are free to all members to enter, and it is important to note they are judged independently of the Chamber by senior business figures.

“They are well-regarded, although we constantly seek to improve. This year the awards had record entries across 15 categories, with our highest on-the-night attendance. We have received no complaints or notes of issue since the event took place.

“You will understand the Chamber has no locus to comment on legal matters involving any business, member or not, that the Chamber is not a party to. We note that the business concerned provided a full response to your initial questions, and the Chamber has no further comment to add.”

The Edinburgh Reporter made several attempts to obtain a comment from Mr Galpin but he failed to respond.

Earlier, he told us that Secure Kitchens Ltd had experienced cash flow problems in March 2023 and was found to be trading at a loss. Cost cutting measures had included closing operations in Nottingham and Leeds and Mr Galpin claimed he had “cut off a limb to save the body” which had safeguarded 37 jobs, 27 of which were in Edinburgh.

Luxford Burgers’ two Edinburgh restaurants and dark kitchens are continuing to trade through Got Buns Ltd, a company set up on 14 June 2024 with Mr Galpin and Alexis Bedetti-Dato listed as directors, and Mr Galpin as the majority shareholder with Andrew Hinchcliffe named as a minority shareholder.

Engineering students from Heriot-Watt University are calling for the reopening of the Edinburgh South Sub rail route that last served neighbourhoods in the south of Edinburgh more than 60 years ago.   

The six-strong team of civil engineers, all based in Edinburgh, have set up an online petition urging policymakers to integrate Edinburgh’s South Suburban Line into the city’s existing tram network. This would create a new off street transport corridor in the capital and would be the answer for those who have been campaigning for its reinstatement for many years.

In addition to the petition, which has already gathered almost 1,500 signatures since it was set up, the students have conducted a public survey. This revealed significant support for their proposals from local communities and potential passengers.

The Edinburgh South Sub was opened in 1884, but the line then closed to timetabled passenger services in 1962.

Spanning 12.3km, the line runs west to east between Scottish Gas Murrayfield stadium to Portobello, passing through key neighbourhoods of Craiglockhart, Morningside, Newington, Cameron Toll, Craigmillar, Fort Kinnaird and Brunstane. The line currently has six platforms lining the route which the students acknowledge would require some renovation work. Their plans also propose a further four new platforms at Portobello, Fort Kinnaird, Niddrie Bingham and Cameron Toll.

While the line is maintained by Network Rail and used today for freight transport, the students argue that it is an underused asset. It would not only benefit passengers but would also assist The City of Edinburgh Council in meeting its targets to reduce car miles travelled by 30% by 2030.

Corey Boyle, one of the final year MEng students who has conducted the research told us the idea was initially his for a final year project for himself and others studying Civil Engineering at Heriot-Watt. He lives nearby so it was an obvious topic for the project which had to built on some sort of infrastructure. He had previously been in contact with local MSP, Daniel Johnson, and also Ian Murray MP about the South Sub so he felt they would have a head start knowing what the issues were.

Corey said: “There have been past studies focused purely on heavy rail, and there has been no feasibility study conducted since the tram opened in 2014. We believe tram trains are a new viable option to reinstate passenger services.

“A tram train walks like a tram, talks like a tram but is not a tram. It has to be sturdier than a tram, it has to also run on a railway. But Corey said it would look like an Edinburgh tram and would carry the same number of people. The difference between an Edinburgh tram and a train is the wheel profile.”

Corey continued: “Because it is a heavy rail, and trams operate on light rail, you have to have different wheel profiles.”

He also said: “The system we propose is called discontinued electrification. That’s an alternative to a full route electrification like we see used on the Edinburgh Trams. As they’re battery electric vehicles, they can run on sections using battery alone and then switch to overhead lines at certain points. This way, it helps keep costs down and gets round any potential obstacles, such as low bridges that might otherwise prevent a tram train from receiving power.

“It is a low-carbon and viable transport option that would see greater connections between homes in the south of the city with the city centre and beyond.”

The group of students say their proposal will help reduce capacity concerns at Edinburgh’s two busiest railway stations, Waverley and Haymarket.

Corey, continued: “Ultimately, we want our work to result in the commissioning of a new feasibility study which looks into reopening the South sub. The last one was in 2008, which was before the trams were even opened and it never looked into the use of tram trains. Since then, there’s been a lot of new developments and there’s a strong case for a new feasibility study to be carried out.”

Caitlin Cummings worked on the project as part of her fifth year coursework in Civil Engineering. She explained they visited a pilot project in Sheffield. She said: “Breathing new life into Edinburgh’s South Suburban Railway will make travel easier for all and encourage people to leave their cars at home in favour of this transport link.

“We do have a second phase to this project that would see a separate line extend from Portobello to Leith using a disused railway line. This would also reduce public disruption by preventing roads from being dug up and minimise impact to business and the environment while helping encourage people onto public transport.”

Efforts to reopen the Sub line have been discussed previously but dismissed due to high costs related to increasing rail passenger capacity at the stations. But Edinburgh’s increasing population is placing greater demands on existing public transport services, and the students believe they have found a “practical and cost-effective” solution. The likelihood of any extension to the tram network – even to the north of the city where there is already statutory consent – has to be calculated as around ten years away according to councillors we have spoken to.

After months of research using the knowledge gained during their studies, the students have tabled a proposal to introduce Scotland’s first battery-electric tram-train network. Tram-trains have been in use in Europe for decades and already operate in Sheffield with more planned elsewhere in the UK.

It is a proposal the campaign group hope will trigger interest from The Scottish Government, Edinburgh City Council and Network Rail.

Edinburgh City Council’s Transport and Environmental Convener, Cllr Stephen Jenkinson thanked the students for organising the petition and supported calls for Edinburgh to have an interconnected public transport system. 

He said: “The South Suburban Railway network has been an issue that has appeared many times over the years and represents a potential future opportunity for development.  

“Edinburgh requires an efficient, innovative and interconnected public transport system to allow us to deal with projected population growth, fulfil our climate responsibilities, drive economic growth, and accelerate developments to respond to our housing emergency.

“I’ve been clear that the North-South tram route is a key part of this and I’m looking forward to seeing the final Strategic Business Case when it is ultimately presented to committee. In addition, we are working with partners on how a North-South tram route can connect with other public transport options across the city and the surrounding local authorities and South Suburban Railway is part of this.   

“We’ll continue to keep Edinburgh moving and encourage all our residents and visitors to use public transport wherever possible.”

Change.org petition set up by students is here

These are plans for the reinstatement of passenger rail services on the Edinburgh South Sub which runs through Morningside. An event on Monday evening will be an opportunity for the students behind it to present more information

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— The Edinburgh Reporter (@edinreporter.bsky.social) 16 March 2025 at 19:33

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Edinburgh South Sub

The Edinburgh South Sub as an entity has had its own social media presence for a few years now, and the individuals behind it have made many efforts to bring the idea of bringing the line back to life with comments on social media.

A spokesperson for Edinburgh South Sub said: “In a time of financial constraints it makes sense to utilise existing infrastructure as much as possible. Given the likely high cost (funding, time, disruption and CO₂) of a new tram line via the Bridges and to the Royal Infirmary the South Sub proposal needs to be seriously evaluated in comparison of cost and benefit.   

“Using “battery” tram trains may be pushing technology limits as surely proper electrification in the long term would be best for the sustainable use of the line especially for freight trains. But it does seem like a viable proposition.

“The idea to connect the TramTrain back to the Newhaven line via Seafield is a great one and we fully support that with new housing it could make the development low car/car free. @EdSouthSub will be here on the sidelines supporting.”

The Edinburgh South Sub’s petition has gathered almost 5,500 signatures in the five years since it was set up.

The statement running alongside the petition reads: “The City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) has launched a consultation on the draft City Mobility Plan 2030. Within this document CEC have ruled out reopening stations on the Edinburgh Suburban and Southside Junction Railway sometimes affectionately known as the “Ed South Sub”. This petition is to provide a voice for the line’s potential users and quantify the support for full feasibility study and business case to be prepared for reopening the stations. This study would assist in identifying routes for connections to either the Scotrail / National Rail and/or Edinburgh Trams network, maximising the impact of the City Centre Transformation and Net Zero Carbon 2030 objectives.

“This decision by CEC comes with a backdrop of decreasing budgets and trying to reduce city centre congestion, implementing a “to not through” transport policy and reducing car use. 

“The #EdSouthSub provides an existing cross city route avoiding the city centre for some journeys, as the route passes several shopping, education, healthcare and residential destinations. This double track route is currently only open for freight and the occasional empty passenger services. The line was opened in 1884, with passenger services withdrawn in 1962 but is still maintained to this day by Network Rail Scotland, therefore if the stations were reopening or new ones constructed it could be utilised by services provided by either;

• “TramTrains that join the Edinburgh Trams network from Haymarket providing routes to the Airport or Newhaven to South Edinburgh as well an east/west link across Edinburgh.
• Scotrail Trains to connect South Edinburgh to the wider National Rail network and recent EGIP improvements. Speeding journeys elsewhere, thus reducing congestion on the A720/M8 whilst also providing east/west cross city journeys.
• or a combination of both? 

“By using either Trains and TramTrains this route could still be used by the infrequent freight services that bypass Waverley Station. The TramTrain technology has been proven for decades in Karlsruhe, Germany and is already being used by Network Rail for the Sheffield to Rotherham TramTrain service. There is so much potential for joined up journeys that are off-street, reducing congestion, faster and allow more local connections to either the Edinburgh Trams or National Rail network.

“The fact that this line passes through one of only 6 Scottish UK Parliament Constituencies without a railway stations indicates something isn’t right, especially as this is an urban not island / rural constituencies. It means for Edinburgh South residents all journeys by rail are extended with bus connections to the city centre and less convenient than using a car.

“All it would need is for CEC, Transport Scotland, Network Rail Scotland / Scotland’s Railway, Transport for Edinburgh & SESTran to work together as seen with the Borders Railway reopening project. With the aim of providing a cost effective solution for low CO₂ public transport with less disruption by simply reopening stations on an existing rail line. This could complement new on street tram lines in the city centre and elsewhere to east and south of Edinburgh and the Lothians in the longer term. 

“Taking into account CEC’s City Centre Transformation, proposed electrification of the line planned by Network Rail Scotland in coming years and not least the Climate Emergency declared by Edinburgh, Scottish & UK governments in 2019, it seems this project would be a great opportunity to put these words into action.”

Summerhall Arts is presenting two notable exhibitions this month, showcasing work by an established and noted sculptor, and the other casting the audience back to the pandemic.

Sculpture in Plaster, 1980 – 2024 includes work by Gareth Fisher and runs until 6 April at the Summerhall Lab Gallery. This major retrospective traces Fisher’s five-decade career, focusing on his enduring relationship with plaster as a sculptural medium. Born in Cumbria in 1951, he studied at Edinburgh College of Art before becoming a significant figure in Scottish art, eventually being elected President of the Royal Scottish Academy in 2022.

The exhibition highlights plaster’s unique qualities of immediacy and fragility that characterise Fisher’s work. Many pieces are displayed in protective cases, preserving both their delicate surfaces and honouring their original exhibition contexts. This thoughtful presentation creates an immersive experience that emphasises the quiet power of Fisher’s sculptural forms.

Summerhall Arts first Associate Exhibition of 2025 is Strange Times Pandemic Art Exhibition from March 21- 23, 2025 in the Meadows Gallery.

Commemorating five years since the beginning of UK lockdown this is a showcase of up-and-coming artists and creatives reflecting on their Covid-19 pandemic experiences, with presentations from local mental health charities.

“Let’s face what we went through.”

• Sculpture in Plaster
• Gareth Fisher
• 1980 to 2024
• Mar 8, 2025 – Apr 9, 2025
• Lab Gallery
• Strange Times
• Summerhall Arts Associate Exhibition
• Mar 21, 2025 – Mar 23, 2025
• Meadows Gallery
• Exhibitions are open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm.
• www.summerhallarts.co.uk

Fife Flyers suffered a 9-3 defeat at high-flying Nottingham Panthers after being blitzed by five goals in the opening 20 minutes.

The Kirkcaldy club bounced back to win the middle session 3-2 but lost the final period 2-0.

The 6,722 fans in the Motorpoint Arena saw their favourites outshoot Fife 38-30 and it took the home side only 4min 08sec to open their account when Hugo Roy beat Fife netminder Janis Voris.

On Saturday, Scott Conway netted the game-winner but Elite League pace-setters, Belfast Giants, had to hang on as basement club Fife Flyers took them to the wire at Kirkcaldy.

Conway’s goal came after 45min 25sec when he was set up by David Goodwin and Gabe Bast for a 4-2 scoreline, but Charles-Antoine Paiement scored Fife’s third to set up a grandstand finish against a club buzzing after winning the Challenge Cup in midweek.

Yes, Fife were outshot 33-14 over the 60 minutes, but interim head coach, Johnny Curran, felt his men put in a good performance after what he described as a slow start by both teams.

PICTURE: Michael Cichy battles for the puck v Belfast Giants at Kirkcaldy. Picture by Jillian McFarlane and courtesy of the Elite League

Pupils from all over Edinburgh are coming together on Monday to demand tough new measures on air pollution to improve air quality in their communities and to call for a safe commute to school, free from the harmful effects of toxic gases.

At an event taking place in the City Chambers young people, parents and teachers will deliver a strong message to politicians asking for more School Zones, more space on the streets for cycling, walking, wheeling and scooting and free public transport for parents and carers travelling with children. 

The event will be hosted by CBeebies presenter Rory Crawford. 

Twenty schools recently took part in an Air Pollution Programme facilitated by charity Parents for Future Scotland, which encouraged them to learn about what causes air pollution, to research the effects it has on our health and wellbeing, and to come up with suggestions and changes that would improve air quality in Edinburgh. 

One P7 pupil from St Peter’s RC Primary School said: “Air pollution causes diseases and cancer. We must start taking action against air pollution and we have to put every ounce of energy into finding new ways to battle for our planet and the future of Scotland. Pupils at our primary school are striving to make everyone’s lives better. We have already laid out our strategies for success, and you should too.”

Councillors, MPs and MSPs are being invited to hear first hand what children in their wards and constituencies have discovered and what changes they would like to see at legislative level. During the programme pupils and parents were asked to rank a number of policies in order of preference. The results showed that the three most popular choices were: 

• School zones where vehicles are not allowed on roads outside school entrances during school hours, and have this enforced. Shutting off roads outside schools before, during and after the school day and having this monitored by traffic wardens and police to ensure that cars are not breaking the rules. This could be extended to a permanent closure where schools take over the streets and incorporate them into the playground area. 

• Building on the alterations made through the Spaces for People scheme initiated over Covid-19 to dedicate more space on our roads for walking, cycling, wheeling & pushing a buggy. Looking at ways to widen pavements, give bikes and pedestrians priority over vehicles and generally make it safer for those choosing to travel to school without a car. 

• Free public transport for carers travelling with children. While children can already travel for free with their bus card, this initiative would allow adults travelling with children to also access buses and trams free of charge, providing an incentive to use public transport rather than travelling by car.

Claire Larkin, Director or Parents for Future Scotland, said: “Air pollution just isn’t talked about and yet it has been linked to heart disease, dementia and strokes. Children and parents in Edinburgh want a safe commute to school, but for this to be possible we need to cut our traffic emissions. We have engaged with one fifth of primary schools in Edinburgh and these are the legislative changes children and parents believe will be most effective at reducing emissions in their neighbourhoods. Communities have the solutions to their own problems and we are delighted to facilitate children and parents to ask for these changes from the council. We hope that they will be taken into serious consideration.”

Police are appealing for information following a hit and run in Edinburgh on Saturday, 15 March, 2025.

The incident involving a cyclist and the driver of a black BMW happened on Colinton Road at the junction with Tipperlinn Road, Edinburgh, around 1.30pm on Saturday afternoon.

The BMW left the scene prior to officers attending and headed south along Tipperlinn Road and enquiries are ongoing to trace it.

The 55-year-old male cyclist was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment.

Constable Neill Sage said: “Our enquiries into this incident are ongoing and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash and who have not already spoken to officers to get in touch.

“I would also appeal to anyone who was in that area around the time and who may have dash-cam of private CCTV footage which would assist us to contact us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 1644 of 15 March, 2025.

An early morning inferno at an Edinburgh garage is the third blaze in two weeks to be linked to a dangerous gangland vendetta.

Firefighters were called to the property at Milton Road East near Portobello early this morning after reports that a car repair business was ablaze.

The garage and the adjoined home is owned by an individual linked to a jailed gangster – as are two other properties which were set ablaze in Musselburgh and Leith.

On Sunday afternoon the scene was cordoned off with number of burnt out vehicles lying abandoned while a Police Scotland van and officers remained on site. The main home did not appear to be affected and it appears the blaze was yet another warning.

The Edinburgh Reporter understands a fourth commercial property in the south of the city is also linked to the same family and neighbours are fearful that it could also become a target. The shop unit is in a quiet residential area is located below traditional tenement flats.

This morning residents on Milton Road East awoke to a third fire in Edinburgh in 10 days linked to two gangs – amid fears there could be more theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2025/03/thir…

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— The Edinburgh Reporter (@edinreporter.bsky.social) 16 March 2025 at 18:09

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A source said: “If the thugs behind these fires have known about the properties in Leith, Musselburgh and Portobello then there is little doubt they will also know about the other location.

“There has been no police presence and if this becomes a target then the families living above will be at serious risk. Police Scotland really have to get a grip of this before innocents are killed.”

The first incident on 6 March led to residents being evacuated in the early hours of the morning after a hooded thug firebombed the Belle Chevaux salon in Albert Street, Leith.

This was followed by a major fire on 11 March at a warehouse at Eskmills Road in Musselburgh which required nine fire appliances and 45 firefighters to deal with the incident. No one has been injured in the three incidents but major damage has been caused to all three properties.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 6.05am on Sunday, 16 March, 2025, we received a report of a fire at a property on Milton Road East, Edinburgh. Emergency services are in attendance and there are no reports of any injuries. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause.”

France won the 2025 Guinness Men’s Six Nations title with a 35-16 victory over Scotland at Stade de France in Paris last night. 

The hosts got on the scoreboard with a Thomas Ramos penalty in the fourth minute.  

15-minutes later Yoram Moefana touched down under the sticks with Ramos converting to make it 10-0 to the hosts. 

The Scots responded with a Finn Russell penalty after hooker Peato Mauvaka was correctly shown a yellow card. 

But the three points were clawed back in the 25th minute with another Ramos penalty. 

White was in the thick of it, this time at the other end when he pipped opposite man Maxime Lucu to the try line with a brilliant piece of cover defence. 

But moments later Russell sent an inside ball to Darcy Graham whose finish was made to look easy. 

  Russell converted to bring the difference to three. 

Then in the 36^th minute Russell tied the scores with another penalty but two minutes later Ramos added his third penalty from right in front of the posts to give his side a slight advantage at the break. 

The French started the second-half on the front foot and added to their lead with a converted try from young winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey. 

A Russell penalty moments later reduced the deficit. 

Ramos then scored and converted a try to extend the home side’s lead. . 

A few minutes later Emmanuel Moefana bulldozed his way over after some more magic from Bialle-Biarrey and the title was all but secured.  

That was the last of the scoring. 

France: Thomas Ramos, Damian Penaud, Gael Fickou, Yoram Moefana, Louis Bielle-Biarrey; Romain Ntamack, Maxime Lucu; Jean-Baptiste Gros, Peato Mauvaka, Uini Atonio, Thibaud Flament, Mickaël Guillard, François Cros, Paul Boudehent, Grégory Aldritt (captain). 

Replacements: Julien Marchand, Cyril Baille, Dorian Aldegheri, Hugo Auradou, Emmanuel Meafou, Oscar Jégou, Anthony Jelonch, Nolann Le Garrec. 

Scotland: Blair Kinghorn (Toulouse), Darcy Graham (Edinburgh Rugby), Huw Jones, Tom Jordan  (both Glasgow Warriors), Duhan van der Merwe (Edinburgh Rugby); Finn Russell (Bath Rugby) (co-captain), Ben White (Toulon); Pierre Schoeman, Dave Cherry (both Edinburgh Rugby), Zander Fagerson, Gregor Brown (both Glasgow Warriors), Grant Gilchrist, Jamie Ritchie (both Edinburgh Rugby), Rory Darge (co-captain), Matt Fagerson (both Glasgow Warriors). 

Replacements: Ewan Ashman (Edinburgh Rugby) (for Cherry, 56 mins), Rory Sutherland (Glasgow Warriors) (for Schoeman, 66 mins), Will Hurd (Leicester Tigers), Ewan Johnson (Oyonnax) (for Gilchrist, 72 mins), Marshall Sykes (Edinburgh Rugby) (for Brown, 56 mins), Ben Muncaster (Edinburgh Rugby) (for Darge, 66 mins), Jamie Dobie (Glasgow Warriors) (for White, 66 mins), Stafford McDowall (Glasgow Warriors) (for Jones, 66 mins), 

Martin Boyle was left disappointed after Hibs were held to a 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. 

Boyle opened the scoring for Hibs in the first half, but the team were pegged back late on with Kilmarnock equalising through former Hibee Fraser Murray in stoppage time. 

Speaking after the match Boyle told Hibs TV: “It is disappointing, especially considering how it ended and the way we conceded the goal 

“It is slack from our point of view – particularly because we have been good defensively in the last few weeks.  

“We knew their threats would be from long throw-ins and set pieces. They were throwing everything at it towards the end, but we know we need to defend that better.  

“Looking at other results today, it is a sore goal to lose – but it could be a good point come the end of the season. 

“We couldn’t kill the game off, we had a few half chances here and there. We dominated large parts of the game, but the second goal wasn’t there for us and we were sloppy defensively at the end.” 

The result means Hibs stay third in the William Hill Premiership – a point clear of Aberdeen with eight games to go and everything still to play for. 

“It could be a point gained on the road, looking at results – we could’ve extended our lead in third, so it’s frustrating on that front. The lads will get a well-earned rest over the international break and I’m sure we will come back firing after that. 

“I am sure there are a lot more twists and turns to come. We have a lot of home games coming out, so hopefully we can take a lot of points from them – but we need to earn the right to do that. 

“We have a lot of belief in the dressing room, which the manager has installed here and we will take it game-by-game between now and the end of the season.” 

The Rare Cancers Bill had its first formal debate on Friday and passed the second reading. The bill has been introduced by Edinburgh South West MP Dr Scott Arthur. His was one of the Private Member’s Bills chosen last year.

His intention is to address the challenges facing people diagnosed with rare and less common cancers, and part of his inspiration was his father-in-law, Ivor.

He explained: “Glioblastoma is typical of so many rare cancers, and it started me on this journey so I want to talk about it further. My father-in-law, Ivor Hutchison, was a dignified man but glioblastoma did not respect that. He was a technical teacher at Bell Baxter high school in Fife. He was married to Sylvia and they have four daughters, Denise, Iona, my lovely wife Audrey who is in the Gallery – I have just embarrassed her – and Sarah. In time, Ivor and Sylvia had grandchildren: Andrew, our daughter Ruth, Hannah, Matthew, our son Ben, Rory and Sophie. Ivor was not a passive grandfather; he worked hard to ensure his grandchildren flourished.

“In September 2017, Ivor began having problems with his speech. My wife Audrey, an NHS nurse, was concerned that it might be a sign of dementia. We all hoped that that was not the case. Following an MRI scan in the November, we received the devastating news that Ivor had glioblastoma. At Christmas he was still very much himself and enjoyed the festivities. Ivor never had a pound of fat on him, but when it came to Christmas time he really did hoover up the food and enjoyed the Christmas meal. It was great to see him that Christmas, but we did feel that it would be his last. Once we entered the new year, he began to lose his mobility, and eventually he was admitted to Adamson Hospital in Cupar. In 2018, surrounded by his wife and daughters, Ivor died peacefully, eight months after his first symptoms. He had a good life and his daughters are a fantastic legacy to him, as well as all the pupils he taught at school.”

Watch the full debate here on Parliament TV.

Dr Arthur also mentioned four year-old Tilly Anderson who died of neuroblastoma, a rare cancer.

Tilly lived in the constituency and her father, Jonathan Anderson, is a head teacher there. Mr Anderson attended the second reading at Westminster, seeing for himself the support for the new law.

He said: ““I am so happy to see MPs choose to back Scott’s Bill. It’s an essential bit of legislation that will do so much to help prevent what happened to my family happening to others.

“People often see parliament as a ‘boo ya’ shouting club. Scott, by dint of his Bill, unified and dignified the House and provided a catalyst for real change.”

One difficulty s faced by those with rare cancers is that there is a small market for trialled drugs to treat them. Drugs companies naturally are more attracted to developing treatment for those who have a more common cancer where there is more need. The lack of investment means that 82% of rare and less common cancer patients were not offered a clinical trial last year according to a Cancer52 survey.

Dr Arthur said “I am overwhelmed by the support for this Bill across the House. We heard many moving testimonies in the debate about why these changes are so important and how urgent action is needed to make sure that rare cancers are left behind no more”.

Cross-party support

During the debate, more than 20 MPs talked of their personal experiences with cancers, and of how their constituents have been impacted.

Katrina Murray (Labour, Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch) added to the debate, who lost her father to a brain cancer earlier this year added to the debate, “There is hardly a family in the UK who have not been touched by cancer in some way—this morning’s debate has shown how much we reflect the population—and the feeling of fear, anxiety and heartbreak that comes with it.

“Somebody said to me many years ago that the greatest gift that any of us can give is the gift of time. No matter our political differences on other things, we have a chance today to give others the gift of time and to make sure no other families have to experience what we have had to go through.”

Josh Fenton-Glynn MP (Labour, Calder Valley) shared the story of his brother Alex English who died in January from salivary gland cancer. He said of his brother, “A lot of us think that our elder siblings are rock stars, but in my brother’s case that was literally true. The band he joined at university, called Pure, toured with bands like Soundgarden and reached the top 10 in Japan.

“That is what this Bill is about: giving people more time with those they love, perhaps even a full lifetime together. In cases where the cancer is worse and it cannot be treated or cured, it is about giving people more time, better health and an understanding of the journey that they are on”.

Rare cancers

A rare cancer is a cancer that affects no more than 1 in 2,000 people. Whilst individually each cancer may be rare, together these cancers make up 47% of all UK cancer diagnoses and 55% of all cancer deaths.

The Bill, backed by over 35 cancer charities, will make changes to the law to provide greater incentives for pharmaceutical companies to invest in researching treatments for rare cancers.

It will do so by:

• Establishing a tailored service that streamlines patient recruitment for clinical trials, removing barriers to both patients and researchers

• Introducing a new responsibility for the Government to delivery rare cancer research and appointing a National Speciality Lead for Rare Cancers

• Triggering a review of the UK’s “Orphan Drug” regulations, that provide

incentives for companies to test new drugs for common cancers against rare cancers too.

The full debate can be read here.

UPDATE: POLICE SCOTLAND Milton Road East, Edinburgh has re-opened following a report of a fire at a property around 6.05am on Sunday, 16 March, 2025.

There were no reports of any injuries and enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.

Emergency services are at the scene of a fire on Milton Road East.

The fire was reported just after 6am this morning.

Police have advised motorists to avoid the area as Milton Road East is currently closed.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 6.05am on Sunday, 16 March, 2025, we received a report of a fire at a property on Milton Road East, Edinburgh.

“Emergency services are in attendance and there are no reports of any injuries.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause.

“Milton Road East is closed and drivers are asked to avoid the area.”

Hibs head coach David Gray said that yesterday’s draw with Kilmarnock “feels like two points dropped.”

Martin Boyle gave Hibs the lead in the first half, but we were denied all three points by a 92^nd minute strike from Fraser Murray.

When speaking after the game, Gray described his emotions.

“Immediately frustration is there because it feels like two points dropped, especially when you concede a goal right at the very end of the game, and because of how I felt we played.

“I thought we were very good; we played at the right times and showed bravery on the ball, especially on a difficult pitch. This is a tough place to come and play.

“When you’re only 1-0 up you run the risk of being pegged back, and unfortunately, we got hit at the very end there. We needed to defend that action better.

“For 90 minutes or however long we were in front, I felt like we were in complete control. It feels like two points dropped, but like I said, this isn’t an easy place to come, their home record speaks for itself, so a point here is never a bad point.

“Hopefully it’s a point closer to where we need to be, and at the end of the season it might be a massive point. We need to look at the positives.”

That draw means Hibs are now 14 games unbeaten in the Scottish top-flight, and it’s another point on the board as we move closer to the split.

“When you look at the other results today, it is a point closer to where we need to be. Saying that, because of the other results, there’s still that feeling that you’ve dropped two points.

“There are now three games to go before the split, two at home, and one away, we’re in a strong position, and need to keep moving forward.

“14 league games unbeaten is a fantastic achievement, but we want to make that 15.

“We have a break now, so we will use that to get a bit of freshness into the players’ legs because it’s been a gruelling period. We go into the break in a positive vein of form.”

Every country western song has heartbreak somewhere in its genetic make-up and this Wild West hoolie of a musical follows that tradition, even if the Wild West in question is Glasgow’s Priesthill.

There we find aspiring Grand Ole Opry star Rose-Lynn Harlan returning home after a year banged-up for supplying heroin.

Continue reading here

At The Royal Lyceum Theatre

Political leaders, arts representatives, and community stakeholders have convened to address the future of the Brunton, Musselburgh’s cultural venue.

The roundtable, which drew cross-party political support from MSPs including Martin Whitfield, Colin Beattie, Alison Johnston, Jeremy Balfour, Paul McLennan, and MP Douglas Alexander, heard that the building’s top floor has been deemed unsafe since the pandemic, and complete mothballing is planned by June.

One person attending the meeting said: “There’s no point having an International Festival City if there is nothing offered in Musselburgh, highlighting the venue’s regional importance.

The estimated demolition cost stands at £3.6 million – although this figure is expected to rise – prompting urgent discussions about alternatives.

Douglas Alexander MP said: “In these often polarised times it was good to join with local representatives in a genuinely constructive cross-party meeting in North Esk Parish Church in Musselburgh to discuss the future of the Brunton Theatre site.”

Sarah Boyack MSP, Cllr Andy Forrest and representatives from The Brunton Trust and Creative Scotland led conversations on potential redevelopment scenarios, with a consensus forming around a community-driven approach.

Ms Boyack said after the meeting: “It was great to host a roundtable on the future of Musselburgh’s Brunton Theatre. It is critical that we ensure that Musselburgh continues to have a theatre to support art and culture across East Lothian.”

Jeremy Balfour MSP said after the meeting: “It was encouraging to have so many different voices around the table.”

Another representative said: “There will be someone in the public that will have an idea that no one has thought of yet,” underscoring the upcoming public consultation scheduled to begin within the next month. This open forum will gather community input and explore creative solutions for the historic venue.

Discussions centred on reimagining the Brunton as a multi-use arts facility which could support local artistic initiatives while attracting major productions. Additional revenue streams, including weddings and touring shows, were explored as potential sustainability measures.

The building’s deterioration has already forced staff relocations to neighboring Haddington, increasing pressure to develop a viable plan. Creative Scotland representatives acknowledged funding challenges but expressed cautious optimism about support possibilities if a cohesive strategy emerges.

Stakeholders emphasised that preserving the Brunton’s cultural identity regardless of physical changes, recognising its significance as a community cornerstone.

The meeting concluded with commitments to transparency, communication with the local community and continued collaboration as feasibility studies progress.

Additional roundtable sessions will be scheduled in coming months, ensuring the community remains informed and engaged in shaping the future of this vital cultural institution.

Foysol Choudhury MSP said after the meeting: “The Brunton has always been known for being a vibrant community hub. Finding venues can be tough, and it is very important, as the Edinburgh International Festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, that we prioritise areas like Musselburgh.”

The Scottish Government will host a major investment event in Edinburgh on Monday which is aimed at unlocking new private investment in Scotland’s rapidly growing offshore wind industry.

More than 100 stakeholders, including investors and developers, will attend the Global Offshore Wind Investment Forum, to be hosted by First Minister, John Swinney. The government has analysed the total global capital expenditure, and says that if all ScotWind and Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas (INTOG) projects along with port and supply chain deals were totted up the value could be around £100 billion.

The Forum follows a Green Industrial Strategy commitment to raise the profile of Scotland as a destination for capital investment. The Strategy identified offshore wind as one of five priority areas for Scottish Government resources and investment.

The Scottish Government is investing up to £500 million over five years in the Scottish offshore wind supply chain to leverage an expected £1.5 billion of private investment.

As well as the First Minister, the Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, Gillian Martin, and Employment and Investment Minister Tom Arthur will also attend the event.

Before the event the First Minister said: “The growth and success of Scotland’s offshore wind industry is not only an ambition of my Government, it is a priority for me personally. Delivering on its promise will not only deliver our global climate obligations, but create significant new jobs and economic opportunities.

“History has shown that success stems from choosing the right time and place to capitalise on the next innovation of the era. We have already gained a significant first-mover advantage and laid the groundwork for success.

“Now we are poised to move to the next stage of development and growth and reap the rewards of what we estimate could be a £100 billion market.

“The Global Offshore Wind investment Forum is about “Team Scotland” showcasing the offer that Scotland’s offshore wind sector offers to global investors. We have a compelling story and a clear message that Scotland is open for business.”

The Scottish National Investment Bank has a pipeline of around £4 billion.

Substitute Jorge Grant slid in at the near post to secure three valuable points for a Hearts side which squeezed into the top six in the William Hill Premiership.

His strike came in the final minute against gritty opponents who frustrated the Jambos by basically massing players behind the ball.

Give Ross County their due, they collectively worked extremely hard to subdue the Men in Maroon who enjoyed most of the possession and territory, particularly in the first 45 minutes, at sun-kissed Tynecastle on an ideal day for a game.

Sadly, the sparkling weather was not matched by the game as Hearts toiled to break down their visitors.

The 300-plus Ross County fans in the 18,000-plus crowd saw their hard-working defence breached for the first time after 25 minutes.

Beni Baningime sent an inch-perfect pass into the path of busy Elton Kabango and the dangerous on-loan striker prodded home for his eighth if the season. Time 25 minutes.

Craig Gordon was a virtual spectator as his team-mates probed for another opening and chances were few and far between.

Jambos boss Neil Critchley made changes is midfield, bringing on Calem Nieuwenhof and Jorge Grant for Sander Kartum and Blair Spittal and the head coach conceded in the post-match briefing that the pair made a difference.

The game opened up in the later stages and chances came, none greater than the one presented to substitute Musa Drammeh.

He received the ball in the centre of the penalty box about 12 yards from goal and his shot was saved by County goalkeeper Jordan Amissah with a strong right hand.

Frustration for the Spanish striker and home fans, but joy for the Staggies faithful who made the long trip from Dingwall.

It appeared that Hearts would have to settle for a 1-0 win until the dying minutes however a slick move down the Main Stand side saw Drammeh send a low cross into the danger area and Grant did the rest with a neat finish from close in for his third of the season. Game over.

Hearts are sixth with 39 points from 30 games, one ahead of Motherwell and four in front of St Mirren. All have played 30 games.

Above them are Dundee United with 41 points from 29 fixtures, Aberdeen on 43 points from 30 games and Hibs with 44 points from 30 starts.

Critchley (pictured) said: “We were in control for long periods but Ross County made it difficult for us with basically 11 men behind the ball.

“It is not easy to break down and they had a threat on the counter attack.”

Don Cowie, County’s manager, said: “The work ethic was there we just didn’t create enough opportunities.”

In a classic example of ‘rags to riches’ Prestonfield have been crowned Scottish golf club of the year.

By their own admission Prestonfield were in a challenging financial state five years ago and this was acknowledged after the ceremony by captain Lynn Abernethy who also paid tribute to the two other short-listed clubs – Castle Douglas and Mearns Castle.

Lynn said on social media: “This award means a lot to us. Our members know all too well that Prestonfield has faced more than its fair share of tough times over the past few years. We’ve taken this club from a position of financial hardship, through Covid, flooding – and the perhaps more predictable challenges of good old Scottish weather to a flourishing, welcoming community and stunning golfing experience. And by “we” I mean members, staff and volunteers who consistently go above and beyond to help build this club.”

The citation for an award, sponsored by Pin Visio, said: “They (Prestonfield) have gone above and beyond to create a welcoming community, grow the game and positively impact membership.”

What also counted was an emphasis placed on cultivating wildlife as summed up by Head Green Keeper, Shaun Cunningham, who said: “We feel that our golf course plays a vital role preserving our natural environment as it provides a stable habitat for the local wildlife and biodiversity.

“It is the greenkeeping team’s duty to work with nature to maintain, conserve and enhance an environment that will promote biodiversity on the course. With this in mind we have created a more natural setting for golf by increasing areas of unmown grass, providing habitat via bird boxes, bee homes and bug hotels, along with greatly reducing chemical applications. All of which were delivered without affecting golfers’ experiences.

“All the good initiatives we have introduced have resulted in us being chosen as a rehoming site for the Scottish SPCA. The natural areas we have on the course are a perfect site to release rehabilitated mammals and birds back into the wild. Our first rehoming were four hedgehogs who made themselves at home very quickly.”

Key initiatives include:

·        The introduction of conservation rough areas, which have increased biodiversity while reducing maintenance costs and fuel usage.

·        Installing bee homes, bird boxes, and a bug hotel to promote local wildlife.

·        Eliminating herbicide and insecticide use while significantly reducing fungicide applications.

·        Upgrading to electric golf buggies.

·        A newly created vegetable garden that supplies fresh produce to the clubhouse kitchen.

·        Partnerships with local wildlife groups, including the Scottish Raptor Group, which monitors raptor boxes on-site.

·        Official rehoming site for SSPCA for hedgehogs

The club has also encouraged the return of native wildlife, including deer, peregrine falcons, kestrels, and owls, as a result of its sustainability efforts.

Those attending the award ceremony also heard organisers say: “Prestonfield Golf Club’s progressive outlook as an ambitious and welcoming venue for golfers of all ages and backgrounds has earned them the honour.

“Judges were impressed by not only the strength of the business but also the sense of community that is felt through all aspects of club life.

“Environmental projects, school initiatives and charity involvement has brought the club closer to local groups outside of the game.

And from being in a loss-making situation just five years ago, the club is now in the black with over 630 playing members and around 100 enjoying social membership.

“With junior and female membership on the rise, planning in place for growth and the club clear in its values, mission and strategy, Prestonfield is well positioned to deal with the economic challenges that lie ahead.”

Prestonfield have previously been recognised for their commitment to junior golf overseen by the convenor, Liz Taylor, who has watched junior membership grow from four when she started out in the role to the present total of 89.

Liz said:“It’s absolutely fantastic to be a member of Prestonfield Golf Club.

“Everyone is so friendly and makes you feel welcome. We have an environment where everyone is included. We create that as a club not just for the members, but the local community as well.”

Still Rollin, a Bay City Rollers fan community, connects more than 1,500 members worldwide through their shared passion for the Edinburgh band.

Led by their coordinators – Gail Shackley in the UK, Susan Rostron, Laura Brady, and Sheila Nittz in the US, and Kat Connor in Canada – the group organises events to keep the band’s legacy alive.

In October last year, the community celebrated the 50th anniversary of the band’s debut album “Rollin” with a Gala at the Caledonian Hotel, drawing 150 fans from across the globe.

The community honours the memory of founding member Alan Longmuir, who died in July 2018, and lead singer Les McKeown, who passed away in April 2021. Following a conversation with Les’ widow, Peko, about his wish for a memorial bench in Princes Street Gardens, the group launched a fundraising campaign. Peko donated items from Les’ stage wardrobe for auction which were displayed at the October Gala.

The initiative expanded to include a bench for Alan Longmuir with his wife Eileen’s blessing. The fundraising gained momentum when Eric Faulkner, the band’s lead guitarist and songwriter, offered previously unreleased music through his “Stars in Your Eyes” EP in exchange for donations. Eric recorded a personal tribute on the record.

Through these efforts, the campaign raised more than £12,000, far exceeding the initial £5,045 target. Eric requested that surplus funds benefit Help Musicians, a charity that supported him during his battle with viral encephalitis in 2015.

The memorial benches are now placed overlooking the Ross Fountain in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, close to the Ross Bandstand – where Alan and his brother Derek first performed publicly as schoolboys at the weekly Saturday Show Time.

Hibs unbeaten league run continued this afternoon but after dominating for the majority of the game, a late equaliser denied the visitors all three points. 

Hibs head coach David Gray made three changes to the side that exited the Scottish Cup last weekend against Celtic. 

Midfield duo of Nathan Moriah-Welsh and Josh Campbell dropped to the bench, with injured wing-back Nicky Cadden absent.  

Junior Hoilett, Jordan Obita and Dylan Levitt all started. 

Killie boss Derek McInnes also made three changes. 

David Watson, Liam Donnelly, and Bruce Anderson all started on the bench with Danny Armstrong and Bobby Wales drafted in, alongside Matty Kennedy. 

The game started in windy conditions with Hibs wearing their third strip of purple and green stripes, kicking toward the travelling supporters. 

The first real chance fell to the home side in the 19^th after a Lewis Miller clearance fell to Marley Watkins but his effort was deflected wide although there was a possible offside in the build up so VAR may have ruled it out. 

Moments later Hoilett fired inches wide from the edge of the area with the Killie keeper stranded. 

Hibs took the lead in the 24^th minute when three players broke clear following a Fraser Murray corner.  

Levitt won possession and ran 60-yards with the ball before slipping it to Martin Boyle who stayed onside and he slid the ball past Robbie McCrorie. 

In the 28^th minute Chris Cadden dispossessed Robbie Deas who responded with a rugby tackle to deny the break and he was corectly shown a yellow card. 

Hoilett almost set up Kieron Bowie with a cut back, but the striker was unable to capitalise. 

In the 42^nd minute Bowie headed over an Obita free-kick and in the last action of the first-half Nectar Triantes first just wide from the edge of the area. 

Just after the restart Boyle tested McCrorie with a powerful effort after some fine midfield play but the keeper managed to push the ball away. 

At the other end Jordan Smith did well to save from Bobby Wales.  

Miller then sent a low powerful cross into the area but Hoilett was unable to get the ball under control and the danger was cleared. 

At the other end Smith did well to save from Danny Armstrong at the near post, 

In the 53^rd minute Armstrong and Deas were replaced by David Watson and Liam Polworth. 

Moment later Boyle got on the end of a Cadden cross but was unable to get the ball from under his feet. 

On the hour mark Bowie was replaced by Dwight Gayle. 

A cross from Hoilett found Boyle but his effort was deflected for a corner. 

Levitt was next to try his luck from 20-yards but his powerful strike was just wide. 

Levitt then did well to spot Triantis unmarked inside the area but the Australian’s shot was well saved. 

Rocky Bushiri almost made it 2-0 after getting on the end of a Boyle free-kick but he blasted the ball wide from close range. 

In the 72^nd minute Calvin Ramsay and Bruce Anderson replaced Watkins and Mattie Kennedy. 

Anderson put the ball into the Hibs net in the 78^th minute but was clearly offside. The ‘goal’ was ruled out following a VAR decision. 

With 10-minutes remaining Levitt and Hoilett were replaced by Josh Campbell and Nathan Moriah-Welsh. 

Then in the 86^th minute Boyle was replaced by Mykola Kuharevich. 

A VAR check decided that Gayle had not been fouled in the box. 

Then in the 92^nd minute former Hibs player Fraser Murray equalised from close range after the Hibs defence failed to deal with a long ball into the box.  

Killie had a late penalty claim turned down in the dying seconds and the game ended all square. 

Kilmarnock: McCrorie, Mayo, Wright, Deas, Ndaba, Armstrong, Lyons, Kennedy, Murray, Wales, Watkins. 

Substitutes: O’Hara, Wilson-Brown, Watson, Cameron, Anderson, Ramsay, Donnelly, Polworth, McKenzie. 

Hibs: Smith, Miller, Bushiri, Iredale, C Cadden, Triantis, Levitt, Obita, Hoilett, Bowie, Boyle. 

Substitutes: Bursik, Ekpiteta, O’Hora, Manneh, Moriah-Welsh, Campbell, Gayle, Molotnikov, Kuharevich. 

Hibs head coach David Gray has set his side the challenge of extending their unbeaten run in the William Hill Premiership.

The team have gone 13 games in the Scottish top-flight without defeat, and have only lost two outings in their last 19 matches – both of those coming away at Celtic Park.

Gray’s men, though, do come into this game off the back of a defeat, having been beaten by the Hoops in the Scottish Cup.

“The players had a reminder of that feeling at the weekend, and it’s not a nice one,” said Gray when speaking to Hibs TV. “We will never accept losing games of football, but we can’t dwell on that.”

“We have everything to play for in terms of our league form. Our full focus is on that. We want to extend our run and get as many points we can before the split. They’re all massive games now.

“Every team in the league has something to play for, so it’ll be really interesting moving forward.

“We’ve got ourselves in a good place and we need to capitalise on that and finish the season strongly.

When we made the trip to Rugby Park earlier this season, we drew 1-1 with Kilmarnock, conceding from a late spot kick.

Gray expects another challenging afternoon this time around.

“It’s a tough trip, but the players are well aware of what they’re going to face.

“We went down there already this season, they play on an artificial pitch, which isn’t an excuse, but it changes things slightly. It’s the same for both teams.

“It’s a difficult place to go but we’re on a brilliant run of form in the league, 13 games undefeated, and we want to make that 14 when we come back up the road.”

A 25-year-old man has been convicted of murder and an attempted murder in Edinburgh in 2023.

On Friday, 2 June 2023, police were called to attend a report of a disturbance on Leith Street near to the junction with Greenside Row. Peter Mullen, aged 30, was found with serious injuries and was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he died a short time later.

Officers subsequently arrested and charged Dylan Curran in connection with the death, and on Friday, 14 March, 2025, he was convicted of murder following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Curran was also convicted of the attempted murder of a 43-year-old man during the same incident.

He will be sentenced at a later date.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson said: “Our thoughts remain with Peter’s family and friends as they come to terms with what happened to him. I hope this verdict will bring some sense of justice for them.

“Dylan Curran will now face the consequences of his deplorable actions.

“Thankfully violent crimes like these in public places are rare in our communities. When such incidents take place, we will use all resources necessary to carry out thorough, rigorous inquiries to ensure we track down those responsible to bring them to justice.

“I would like to thank those members of the public who assisted with our enquiries.”

Police officers from the Edinburgh’s south-east community team have identified a male who had been riding electric off-road motor cycles illegally throughout the city centre of Edinburgh.

Officers have now charged a 48-year-old man with six offences.

These offences include – driving with no insurance, driving without a helmet and driving without a valid licence

The bike has been removed from him and and police spokesperson said that the circumstances will be reported to the courts.

A bookshop which is one of the oldest in Edinburgh is closing next month.

B McCall Barbour Christian Bookshop will close on 5 April after 125 years as a retailer and publisher of Christian literature.

The shop was opened by founder Benjamin McCall Barbour in 1900. He worked as a stationery salesman and published a booklet “evangelising Edinburgh’s troubled youth”. After his death the business was passed to his friend James Danson-Smith, and then on to his daughter Miss G.A Danson-Smith. She has decided not to sell the shop but to close it.

Miss Danson-Smith said:  ”I’m not getting any younger – now 94 years old – and I’m not able to go to work now. I have to preserve the testimony that the firm has had over 125 years.

“It isn’t easy. Considering the population of Edinburgh, and the number of local customers, there were not so many locals coming in. There always seemed to be more customers coming from further away; from other parts of Great Britain, from Northern Ireland, and also from abroad. Holland, the Scandinavian countries, North America, and actually all over the world.”    

The bookshop Manager, Chris Wedderburn said: “Working for B. McCall Barbour over the last 4 years has been the most wonderful period of employment in my life so far. 

“Spending the working day in a Christian environment – with the bulk of customers holding to Christian values – makes a noticeable difference in the quality of communications, and lifts the inevitable toil of any working day from a necessary obligation to a pleasurable act of service; a truly remarkable reflection and outcome of what happens when people apply the Bible – the Word of God – to themselves in everyday life.”

A statement issued to customers reads: “We deeply regret that B. McCall Barbour Christian bookshop is moving towards closure on 5th April, 2025, after 125 years as a Bookseller and Publisher in Christian Ministry.

A “Closing Down Sale” is already in effect giving a discount of 50% off all existing stock. This discount is extended to all our customers.

“The bookshop is expecting to close its door for the last time at 6pm on Friday 21 March, 2025, and mail orders will be accepted until close of business on that day. 

“Thank you – every one of you – for your faithful support with both your custom and your prayers over the many years. It has been a blessing to have been in service.”

Yorkshire-born, Amsterdam-based saxophonist Sam Newbould brings his celebrated Sam Newbould Quintet to Scotland for the first time this April.

Newbould and his powerhouse ensemble will perform in Scotland and England on The ‘Homing’ UK Album Release Tour in support of their critically acclaimed third album.

Despite calling Amsterdam home for nearly a decade, Newbould describes this tour as a personal homecoming. “Scotland has always had a special place in my heart. I have childhood memories of cycling through its rugged landscapes and getting lost in the magic of Stirling Castle. Some of my favourite musicians and bands are coming out of Scotland right now, and I’m so excited to bring my original music to these incredible venues.” 

The tour celebrates Homing, an album inspired by a chance encounter with a Polish homing pigeon—mirroring Newbould’s own reflections on building a sense of belonging while living abroad. “Unlike the homing pigeon, my feeling of home isn’t tied to a place anymore. Instead, it’s about relationships, experiences, and moments. That’s what this album—and this tour—is all about.”

More than just a jazz concert, Newbould’s live performances blur the line between music and storytelling, combining humor, introspection, and explosive musicianship. “There’s an energy and joy in our live shows that we hope is for everybody—jazz fans and non-jazz fans alike. The songs are catchy, foot-tapping, but also sometimes dark and emotional. Expect spectacular solos, infectious grooves, and a few unexpected twists.”

Tickets are on sale now here.

Landmark buildings including Edinburgh Castle, Prestonfield House, The Witchery, Camera Obscura, St Giles’ Cathedral and the EICC will join a list of more than 40 which will be lit up in purple on 26 March to mark Purple Day, the international day for epilepsy awareness.

These purple beacons will spotlight a condition which affects more than 80,000 people in Scotland.

Purple Day, established in 2008 by nine-year-old Canadian Cassidy Megan, has become a global event challenging epilepsy stigma and misconceptions.

This year’s campaign promises to be the most extensive yet, with the RRS Discovery, Ness Bridge, and Wallace Tower joining the nationwide purple illumination to support Epilepsy Scotland.

Lesslie Young OBE, Chief Executive of Epilepsy Scotland, said: “These purple displays across Scotland’s skyline do more than catch the eye – they spark crucial conversations about epilepsy.

“By lighting up our most recognised landmarks, we’re illuminating the path toward better understanding of a condition that remains misunderstood by many.”

The charity invites communities across Scotland to get involved and take part in purple themed fundraising activities. 

From sponsored walks to wear purple days or bake sales to community gatherings, fundraising efforts will contribute to Epilepsy Scotland’s annual £700,000 fundraising goal and the charity says it will allow continued delivery of vital, personalised support services to individuals living with epilepsy. 

Everyone is invited to join the purple movement by organising events in school, workplace or in a local community group and share what you are doing using #PurpleDay2025. 

epilepsyscotland.org.uk/purple-day contact fundraising@epilpesyscotland.org.uk

A former social worker who sexually abused several boys at a Barnardo’s residential home in East Lothian has been jailed and placed on the sex offenders register.

Peter Livingstone carried out a “depraved” campaign of physical and sexual abuse while he was employed at the charity’s Tyneholm House in Pencaitland in the 1980s.

Livingstone, 67, indecently assaulted one victim by massaging his naked buttocks and touching his the boy’s penis and testicles on several occasions.

The former residential social worker also groped the testicles of a second child, instructed him to masturbate in his presence and fondled himself, all between April 1981 and November 1982.

Livingstone was found to have attacked a third boy by seizing and dragging him by the hair, forcing him to remove his clothing and making him stand naked facing the corner of a room at the care home.

He denied all the allegations against him but was found guilty by a jury of six offences of assault, indecent assault and using lewd, indecent and libidinous practices following an eight day trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last month.

The jury also found the Crown had not proven a further two charges of indecent assault and one of using lewd, indecent and libidinous practices.

All the offences took place at the former Dr Barnardo’s residential home at Tyneholm House, Pencaitland, East Lothian, between April 23, 1979 and April 15, 1983.

The charity has now released a statement paying tribute to the bravery of the victims and condemning Livingstone’s behaviour towards them. 

Livingstone returned to the dock for sentencing yesterday (FRI) where a sheriff said he had been in “the position of the highest trust” and told him he had “betrayed that trust for your own depraved ends”.

Sheriff Matthew Auchincloss said: “You were found guilty by a jury of the physical and sexual abuse of boys at a children’s home in East Lothian for the period of April 1979 to  April 1983.

“At the time you were employed by Barnardo’s to care for these children, the children were already particularly vulnerable given they were in residential care. 

“Given the nature of the offending there is no appropriate way of dealing with you other than a custodial sentence.”

Livingstone, of Clermiston, Edinburgh, was jailed for 30 months and was placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years.

Advocate James Wallace, defending, said his client continued to deny his guilt and suffers from ill health including “a long standing problem with depression”.

Mr Wallace said Livingstone had worked with the elderly in the NHS for 20 years after leaving his position with Barnardo’s and has no previous convictions.

Martin Crewe, the Director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said: “We would like to pay tribute to the victims who have shown great courage and bravery throughout this process.

“We strongly condemn the actions of this individual.

“Keeping the children and young people in our care safe is of paramount importance to Barnardo’s and we take this responsibility very seriously. 

“We continually review and update our safeguarding training, policies and procedures and will put in place any learnings from this case.”

Tyneholm House in Pencaitland was opened by Barnardo’s as a home for boys in 1948.

The property became a mixed accommodation in 1970 before changing to a home for children with physical and learning disabilities in 1973. 

The home was finally closed in 1985 and the building is currently used as a care home for the elderly.

Lynne Barrie, Procurator Fiscal for Lothian and Borders, said: “Peter Livingstone cruelly exploited a position of trust and power to prey on vulnerable children.  

“These boys should have been safe under his care but were instead abused and assaulted, causing them lasting trauma.   

“I would like to commend the strength and courage of the victims, and to thank them for coming forward. This prosecution would not have been possible without them.  

“COPFS is committed to robustly prosecuting non-recent allegations of abuse of children in care and securing justice.  

“I would urge anyone who has experienced similar offending to come forward and report it, regardless of how long ago the offences took place.”