TV pundits Greg Blair and Adam Roynon (pictured) can expect their own performances to be dissected when Berwick and Monarchs Academy clash in a National Development League (NDL) double, writes George Dodds.

Instead of adding colour to the action on livestream channel BSN, they captain their respective sides as Berwick Bullets and Edinburgh Monarchs’ Academy look for points to haul themselves away from the foot of the table.

The sides also meet at Armadale on Friday but Roynon is missing, riding for his Championship side Poole in the first leg of the BSN Series Final at Glasgow. Belle Vue’s Jack Smith guests before the Cumbrian returns when the action crosses the border to Shielfield Park.

It is repeat of the fixture which launched the Bullets in 2021 when, in the last days of COVIC-19 lockdown a worldwide audience tuned in via livestreaming to watch the first competitive team event on a British speedway track for almost 18 months.

Current Bandits’ skipper Leon Flint wrote his name into history as he led Nathan Greaves, Ryan McDonald and Sheldon Davies home in heat one, the Bullets winning on 50-40 but six days later – still behind closed doors – Armadale got their revenge with a six-point victory.

Last season the Bullets did the double – current Workington and Glasgow star Ace Pijper making a memorable professional debut as a 15-year-old at Armadale and winning the return comfortably thanks in no small measure to Kyle Bickley’s maximum for the visitors.

Danny Phillips is an ever-present in the four previous fixtures – as a Devil – but he will sport the Bullets’ number one at Armadale before Connor Coles reverts to the top of the team sheet the following night courtesy of the new greensheet averages.

Josh Embleton was also in the 2022 Armadale side but continues to be sidelined by injury, Berwick operating rider-replacement to cover for him while another to have appeared in all previous encounters, Kieran Douglas, returns to the Bullets’ line-up.

He replaces Ben Rathbone, himself a 28-day stand-in for Archie Freeman, and renews what was a prolific reserve partnership with Mason Watson.

Watson has bounced back from a torrid start to the season and over the past two home meetings in particular has been giving Blair a run for his money in the previously rarely contested “most entertaining rider” category using racing lines that few – often with good reason – others dare.

Max Clegg replaced the retired Bickley in the Edinburgh line-up along with the latest from the conveyor belt of Cumbrian Moto-X talent making the switch to speedway, Mark Parker.

Monarchs also use rider-replacement to cover injured winter signing Alex Spooner. Mickie Simpson, initially dropped to accommodate Clegg’s near 12-point average, is back at reserve with Parker named as number eight. Bullets name a rather more experienced number eight in the shape of ex-Kent man Jason Garrad who impressed Berwick management while guesting against the Kings at Iwade last month.

Jacob Hook was a dual Monarch but is now a Championship Bandit after being released by the Championship side but retained by the Academy while Kieran Lyden, promoted to number two, is a familiar face to supporters of Northern Junior League racing.

A first-time visitor to Shielfield will be Dayle Wood the 28-year-old Aussie who decided to follow his dream of racing in Europe, emailing clubs around Britain last October in his quest for a team berth.

Qualifying for dual nationality meant Edinburgh could bring him in on an assessed three-point average but Wood then hit the headlines after three-times World Champion Tai Woffinden sold-off the trophy he had just won at Mildura sparking a post-meeting auction which raised $3,000. Wood used some of that unexpected windfall to buy equipment from former Shielfield and Armadale favourite Aaron Summers who was heading in the opposite direction, returning to Australia with his young family.

A promotion into the Championship side in the reshuffle which saw Hook replaced capped a surreal season for the man from Wagga Wagga.

Home victories over Belle Vue and Kent got Edinburgh’s campaign off to a flying start but since then they have struggled, the latest of five successive defeats coming at Leicester on Saturday night, Hook scoring 12 of their 37 points in the East Midlands.

Connor Coles scored seven guesting for the Cubs having had a Championship outing as Jake Mulford’s stand-in for Redcar against Plymouth the previous night.

Friday’s action gets underway at 7.30pm with the Shielfield Park meeting starting at 7pm.

Academy:  Friday: Max Clegg, Kyran Lyden, Jack Smith, Alex Spooner R/R, Jacob Hook, Mickie Simpson, Dayle Wood, Mark Parker. Saturday: Clegg, Lyden, Spooner R/R, Adam Roynon, Hook, Simpson, Wood, Parker.

Bullets: Friday: Danny Phillips, Josh Embleton R/R, Jamie Halder, Connor Coles, Greg Blair, Kieran Douglas, Mason Watson, Jason Garrad. Saturday: Coles, Embleton R/R, Phillips, Halder, Blair, Douglas, Watson, Garrad

“LOCH LOMOND” LODGE IS LODGE OF THE MONTH in CRIEFF

Scotland’s newest five star residential park is offering the Loch Lomond Lodge (from £99,000), as its current Lodge of the Month.

With a full residential licence, the park is geared up to cater for a downsizing community keen to enjoy an easier pace of life and a low maintenance lifestyle.

The park enjoys a picturesque location, just outside Crieff, and offers buyers a rural setting in which to enjoy their new lifestyle, but still within easy reach of Scotland’s major cities.

The owners visualise the site becoming a proper community of like-minded people living together and enjoying benefits such as on-site maintenance and a fully engaged customer service team.

Available in both a two or three bedroom design, the Loch Lomond is a spacious double lodge from top manufacturer, Omar which offers an ideal, energy efficient, downsizing home with no compromise on comfort or luxury.

As fully specified and constructed as a new build bungalow, but at a fraction of the typical cost, the Loch Lomond is a lodge with a list of features. Included in its specification is a spacious open plan layout, a fully fitted luxury kitchen with an island unit, alongside top of the range integrated appliances, a private monoblocked driveway, an en-suite, utility room, and fully decked outside space from which to admire the stunning views of prime Perthshire countryside.

Additional touches include a freestanding American style fridge freezer, a recessed electric fire and DVD unit, a stylish lounge suite, a 5ft divan in the master bedroom, and a cosy snug area off the main lounge. Wifi is also included in this home. PVCu double glazing will ensure the property is warm, and a Gas combi central heating system with thermostatic radiator valves, will ensure the lodge is affordable to run. As these luxury lodges are aimed at over 55s thinking of downsizing who may already be fully or semi retired, keeping running costs as low as possible is an essential so that the occupants can enjoy life to the full in this fantastic part of Scotland, indulging in hobbies and pastimes such as golf, fishing, hill walking.

As befits a five star park, West Lodge Estate is private and secure with a fully gated entrance.

Scotland’s finest Hotel, Gleneagles, is within easy reach, with Crieff Hydro just up the road. The charming market town of Crieff has a wealth of local amenities to offer, including luxury restaurants, delis, award winning fishmongers, and farm shops. It also has its own Distillery, Glenturret.

West Lodge Estate is making it as easy as possible for current buyers to access their retirement dream with two years of site fees covered by the park, on lodge sales secured by the end of August, plus moving and relocation costs additionally covered by the park.

An additional exclusive enclave of properties will be added to the park in the coming months.

Your Move Stirling (01786 451555) are handling sales, with all interested parties offered a bespoke tour of the luxury show lodges.

The estate can be contacted direct on 01764 670354.

www.westlodgesestate.com

Tom Coolen has been confirmed as the new head coach of Fife Flyers and he declared: “I look forward to icing a team that Fife Flyers fans can be proud of.”

The Canadian-born coach comes to Kirkcaldy with over 15 years experience as head coach in various leagues across Europe and North America. 

And Coolen is a two-time winner of the Canadian Inter-university Sport (CIS) Coach of the Year award and a three-time Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Coach of the Year recipient. 

He built two national championship teams at Acadia University and he has also been an assistant coach at national hockey level with the Polish and Latvian squads.

Indeed, he coached Latvia at the 2014 Winter Olympics and in three World Championships. 

The new playcaller has also been an assistant coach for the Buffalo Sabres of the National Hockey League and he said: “I have followed the Elite League more closely over the last few years and I competed against Belfast (Giants) in the Continental Cup three years ago. I am familiar with the caliber.” 

Tom Muir, Fife Flyers’ director, said: ”We are excited to welcome Tom to Flyers. Throughout our search for a head coach, we knew we wanted someone with previous coaching experience.

“Tom comes to Scotland with an extensive amount of experience and a vast network of contacts at all levels.”

Meanwhile, 26-year-old American left-wing Charlie Combs, formerly of Dundee Stars, has signed for Glasgow Clan and he netted 30 goals in 52 appearances for the Tayside team in the 2021-22 season. He also registered 35 assists.

The Braehead side have also confirmed that Fife will be their opponents on opening weekend.

Clan host Fife on Saturday, September 23 in the Challenge Cup (7pm) and then travel to Kirkcaldy on Sunday, September 24 (6pm) in the return.  

PICTURE: Fife Ice Arena by Nigel Duncan

SNP mismanagement has left policing in Edinburgh at breaking point as new figures reveal the majority of housebreakings go unsolved, says a Lothian MSP. 

Latest recorded crime statistics show that in 2022-23 there were 1,449 housebreakings recorded in the City of Edinburgh.  

In the same year 80 per cent of housebreakings were not solved or “cleared up”. 

A crime or offence is regarded as “cleared up” where there exists a sufficiency of evidence under Scots law to justify consideration of criminal proceedings – meaning the majority of housebreakings in Edinburgh have gone unsolved. 

Labour MSP Sarah Boyack has said these figures expose the pressure policing in the City of Edinburgh is under, and warned the SNP-Green government against cuts in the area. 

Ms Boyack said: “The revelation that 8 out of 10 housebreakings in Edinburgh remain unsolved is nothing short of a disgrace.

“These shocking figures reveal the pressure police in Edinburgh are under, with years of SNP mismanagement pushing services to breaking point.

“Housebreaking can cause its victims both financial loss and serious distress, and it will add insult to injury that so many perpetrators get off scot-free.

“It is high time for our government to prioritise public safety, allocate adequate funding, and ensure that police have the resources they need to tackle crime and keep our city safe. 

“The residents of Edinburgh deserve better.”

Corstorphine Low Traffic Neighbourhood

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods seem to attract controversy and a divergence of opinions. There was a meeting last night in St Margaret’s Park in Corstorphine when around 400 people listened to several speakers, all of whom are opposed to the introduction of the measures such as one-way streets and bus gates in Corstorphine as part of Corstorphine Connections where there is an opportunity to comment on the measures until 23 November 2023.

Read more here

Porty Pride Film Night

Porty Pride are holding their first film night on 7 July from 7pm to 10pm in the recently opened Porty Town Hall.

Join them for a showing of Rebel Dykes including a short Q&A with the producer Siobhan Fahey and an exclusive introduction by Val McDermid.

This is a ticketed event.

https://www.outsavvy.com/event/14781/porty-pride-film-night

Granton Goes Greener

The group are running free sewing classes on Monday and Thursday evenings between 6 and 8pm. Email anna@grantongoesgreener.co.uk to book your place. They provide fabrics and patterns as well as a sewing machine.

Edinburgh International Book Festival 2023

Tickets for the book festival go on sale on Thursday at 10am on the Edinburgh International Book Festival website.

This will be the last programme under the direction of Festival Director Nick Barley.

The programme is listed in full here for you to sift through and bookmark the events you may want to see in person. There are also some streamed events, and there will be a big screen outside in the garden at Edinburgh College of Art for anyone who does not have a ticket to watch along. More details about the programme here

Read more about the new Festival Director, Jenny Niven, here.

How to subscribe to The Edinburgh Reporter

All of our content is free to access but if you would like to support us and also get your own copy of our monthly paper delivered to you each month then you can subscribe here. The paper is always on the streets on the 1st of each month and the July issue is going to press today – hooray!

Click on the front page below. And if you have any stories then do get in touch.

More than four hundred people congregated in St Margaret’s Park on Tuesday evening to hear views from several speakers all opposed in some way to the trial Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) which The City of Edinburgh Council has introduced.

The council says that the moves will create a safer more comfortable environment for residents moving about or spending time in the streets and outdoor spaces in Corstorphine.

The trial involves practical measures and six months of open public consultation, although it is unclear how many of the people in St Margaret’s Park on Tuesday evening were aware of that.

There were demands from most in the audience that the LTN should either be changed or scrapped. Allison Thomas said she was there to protest that the council was proceeding despite the outcome of the consultation. She said: “We said no. I think you can see that the population of Corstorphine feels quite strongly.”

A Wester Broom resident said that he now has to drive up Drum Brae to Clermiston to come back down to Rowlands the chemist on Featherhall Avenue where it is blocked off. He said he had had to walk to the park on Tuesday night which took about an hour.

A St John’s Road resident said she needs to get about for her mobile business and is finding it very difficult to do so with the changes on the streets.

A resident of the sheltered housing complex on Claycot Park said she now has to shut her windows due to the increased pollution outside in Corstorphine High Street.

One member of the audience asked which councillors had implemented these changes and asked what changes they had made in their own constituencies. Another whose wife is a wheelchair user said that the one way streets being imposed would increase the cost of taxi journeys.

A member of the audience told The Edinburgh Reporter that the 20 minute neighbourhood is a “UN sustainable development goal, a global plan which has been communicated and it is in the public domain. 20 minute neighbourhoods, smart cities there are lots of terms they are using interchangeably, to mean the same thing where they are trying to create zones where people will be housed and settled in, and then further restrictions will be brought in, in terms of people being able to move outside of that zone. That is the incremental changes which could come with these plans”.

A Meadowhouse Road resident said that cars are now driven along the pavement during rush hour, something which has only happened since the measures were implemented.

Local MSP Alex Cole Hamilton said that it was shameful that Cllr Scott Arthur was not at the meeting. He said: “He should be here to hear what you think.”

The Edinburgh Reporter has already been advised that the Transport Convener and the Council Leader have invited some of the group to a meeting at the City Chambers.

Mr Cole Hamilton said he is not opposed to the idea of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and said he really liked what they have done in Waltham Forest and commended that council for the “five iterations of consultation”. He said: “That consultation didn’t happen at all in East Craigs, we got to this space where people were getting letters through the door saying this is happening to you, effectively kettling 7,500 homes.

“There was a consultation for this, but as we’ve heard, there was a secondary consultation which overrode the first, and people rightly are concerned that they’ve not properly had their voice heard. So my function is your parliamentary representative – as your neighbour – is to make sure that your voices heard in the corridors of power.

“And I fear that because of what they did in East Craigs because of what is happening here, what I’m getting from people in Corstorphine is this is actually setting back the active travel agenda.”

Mr Cole Hamilton convened a meeting in Gyle Park in August 2020 about a possible LTN in East Craigs. He claims now that there was a special dispensation from the Cabinet Secretary for Justice to breach Covid rules for the “function of duty and democracy” and around 800 people were present at the meeting. But the measures being considered then were under special Covid rules, and while the effect might be similar, the process was completely different. The UK Government which funded the scheme and The Scottish Government which allocated half the national funding to Edinburgh, did not lay down any requirements for consultation at that time. The idea was to put in measures for public health reasons just as quickly as possible.

The Scottish Liberal Democrat leader concluded: “My goodness, tonight is the start of something where they can’t ignore the democratic views of the people who have to live in Corstorphine, who love to live in Corstorphine. It’s a beautiful community to live in, but they have made this issue a divisive one, and yet still turn their back on being willing to hear from you.”

[vimeo 842255654 w=640 h=360]

St Margaret’s Park – the speeches from The Edinburgh Reporter On Vimeo on Vimeo.

Grant Douglas, MBE, is a local resident awarded an MBE for services to disabled people after inventing the S’up spoon – a spoon for people who have shaky hands.  Grant is experiencing negative impacts of the LTN restrictions and has asked the Council to consider providing an exemption for blue badge holders, but says his request has been refused.

Jackie Connor who is one of the people behind Accessible Corstorphine for Everyone (ACE) explained how the group came about. She said: “This all started only five weeks ago with a Facebook page created to give a platform to express people’s views on the Corstorphine LTN. Within a remarkably short time span, the page has rapidly grown. And we now have over 1700 supporters In addition we have successfully formed a community group known as ACE or Accessible Corstorphine for Everyone. I acknowledge there are strong feelings in the community, both in favour of and against LTN.”

Ms Connor set out her demands to Edinburgh Council to reverse Experimental Traffic Regulation Order 2121 and restore the affected areas. She also asked for a “fair and non-biased consultation clearly describing proposed measures” with implementation of changes based on the majority view. She conceded that promoting alternative modes of transport is essential but “that should not come at the expense of hindering the movement and accessibility of others. We must find a balanced approach that respects the needs of all community members.” She referred to carers who have less time to offer care due to the effect of the LTN.

Peter Roberts has lived in Corstorphine for 23 years. He admitted that at first he was not in favour of the LTN proposals claiming that journeys would be longer with traffic jams more frequent which was “the exact opposite of the council’s stated aims”.

He also attacked the consultation itself.

He claimed that three out of seven organisations consulted were “pressure groups supporting low traffic neighbourhoods”. He queried why the council did not consult Get Edinburgh Moving which had “great experience of fighting the East Craigs LTN”, and said the result was a “loaded group which was only ever going to give one answer”.

He said that a council officer, Martin Lings, had told him that the face to face street survey was not used to make any decisions about proceeding with the changes and continued: “One justification that Mr. Lings and Councillor Arthur the transport convener have made for ignoring the majority is that a minority don’t feel that the streets are safe enough.” Mr Roberts agreed that streets need to be safe for everybody not just most people but “you do not achieve that by bulldozing through a programme of changes, which the overwhelming majority have explicitly rejected. You do it by finding a programme of changes which can gain broad support”.

Mr Roberts contended that the experimental measures restrict a huge number of streets which were never mentioned in the original consultation and that there are others – parking bans, one way roads and even complete road closures which could be “implemented tomorrow with no further notice”.

He said that by the time the six month consultation is over the “damage will have been done, businesses will have been ruined and lives turned upside down”. He urged everyone to keep contacting their councillors making it clear “that we are not going away and that we won’t forget”.

Grant Douglas spoke to the audience to point out that his journeys were now much longer and more difficult, and that he is wholly dependent on his car due to disability.

David Lowe read out a statement by the manager of The Gift Tree which is a local shop. The statement asserted that the limited amount of consultation was an “absolute joke”. The “fonts used are tiny making them difficult to read, not easily accessible and you have to know where to find them or read the tiny print strapped to a lamppost”. It was also pointed out that Station Road is suddenly becoming a cul de sac, that areas were added without consultation and that car users are just not welcome.

David Madine had also helped to set up the LTN Facebook page and claimed it has more than 1,800 members. He is a cyclist, commuting daily and, despite serious injury following a hit and run in September, he said this is not a motorist v cyclist debate. He also said that most people would love to have less traffic on the roads, but that this LTN is not the solution to that, that traffic has just moved to previously quieter roads including the road where he lives. He said: “A primary aim of the LTN is to reduce traffic. more traffic than ever now goes past the front of Corstorphine Primary School and more traffic than ever now travels on Meadowplace Road and Station Road. And residents have photographic proof of this. It is fact it’s not hearsay.”

He concluded: “What has been imposed on us has produced the polar opposite of community improvement.”

Cllr Fiona Bennett said: “I think that they need to listen to the community. I think the turnout tonight has been fantastic and certainly indicative of very strong feelings in the community. The decision makers need to listen to the people that they are representing.”

Scottish walking charity, Paths for All, have formally launched their All Ability Health Walk training which is designed to include people with disabilities and long-term health conditions on Health Walks.

One fifth of the Scottish population has a disability. Among that one fifth taking part in physical activity is very low despite the fact that four in five people living with a disability would like to be more physically active This training aims to support more inclusive and welcoming opportunities for those in local communities living with disabilities to enjoy the benefits of getting outdoors and joining a sociable walk and wheel.

Working in partnership, Scottish Disability Sport and Paths for All have developed the free training course for members of the Scottish Health Walk Network (SHWN). The Scotland-wide network, which includes over 440 member organisations and community groups supported by Paths for All, deliver over 850 regular Health Walks. The free course consists of an e-learning module and in-person classroom session and offers the necessary knowledge and skills an organisation or group may need to identify barriers and challenges to those living with disabilities enjoying physical activity.

Zoë Niven, Senior Development Officer in the Walking for Health team at Paths for All said, “This new training really is a positive step in the support Paths for All offer to Walk Leaders across Scotland. The expertise and insight provided by Scottish Disability Sport means we’re better equipped to understand the barriers those with disabilities experience, and how we can create inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable walking and wheeling experiences that everyone can take part in.

“Regular walking and wheeling outdoors is incredibly beneficial to physical, mental and social wellbeing – we want everyone to have the opportunity to confidently take part and enjoy it. We’ve seen a positive reception in members of our Network, with several organisations having already completed the training. These organisations and community groups already deliver a wealth of Health Walks open to people of all abilities, this training really looks to strengthen how we do that, and broaden the reach to those who need it.”

Health Walks are free, safe and welcoming low-level walks, generally lasting 30-60 minutes, are designed to reduce health inequalities by boosting physical activity opportunities in local communities where people are more likely to experience long-term health conditions, disabilities and social isolation. Once the training has been completed, members will have the confidence to explore solutions and deliver effective communications to make their Health Walks even more welcoming and inclusive.

Whilst the All Ability Health Walk training is only available to members of the Scottish Health Walk Network, community groups and organisations keen to get involved can ask about joining the Scottish Health Walk Network.

www.pathsforall.org.uk/walking-for-health

ScotRail’s Highland Explorer scheme has landed a top award at the Scottish Transport Awards 2023. 

The carriages which carry bikes and other sports gear for those cycling and walking on the west coast won the award for Excellence in Transport Design at the ceremony on Thursday.

ScotRail began operating the specially designated active travel carriages – a first of their kind for the UK rail network – in July 2021.  

The redesigned carriage has space for 20 bicycles and other bulky sports gear, including ordinary bikes, a limited number of tandem cycles and an e-bike charging socket – which is a unique feature on any UK train. 

Prior to their introduction, the carriages were renovated inside and out and work included the installation of larger cushioned seats, USB sockets, and plug charging points.  

The carriages also have table maps detailing the route, with recommendations on where to walk, cycle, and visit. QR codes at each table provide links for further inspiration on places to visit in Scotland. 

Services with the Highland Explorer carriages initially operated on the West Highland Line between Glasgow and Oban, but more recently, were introduced to the Mallaig branch of the route. 

The rollout of the carriages on that part of the line benefits local communities as well as cyclists, as the addition of the carriages on the route means that customers benefit from 15 per cent more seats, more luggage space, and access to an additional toilet on board. 

Tom Smith, ScotRail Head of Fleet Technical, said: “It’s fantastic to see the hard work of all of the partners involved in the introduction and delivery of our Highland Explorer carriages recognised at such a high level within the transport industry. 

“The successful delivery of these carriages on the world-famous West Highland Line has been a welcome economic boost for rural communities, many of whom depend on tourism for their livelihoods. 

“Since their introduction, we’ve listened to feedback from both customers and stakeholders on how make the most of these fantastic carriages and deliver the best possible service, while supporting active travel and our continued recovery from the pandemic.” 

Barratt Developments Scotland (which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes) has donated £30,000 to help provide support for children and adults impacted by food inequality.

Edinburgh’s Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, Glasgow’s Launch Foods and Dundee Bairns are three of five Scottish charities which will benefit from the housebuilder’s fund. All three support low-income families to provide meals for their households.

Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, based in Edinburgh has provided more than 1.6 million free meals since its launch in 2020. The charity turns surplus food into nourishing meals for people that need them, reaching the most marginalised people across the city.

Emily Gifford, Fundraising Manager at Empty Kitchens Full hearts said: “This generous support from Barratt Developments Scotland will go directly towards cooking, packing, and delivering meals to people in need across Edinburgh, as well as signposting towards other relevant support services.

“At the moment, we’re working with around 700 people each week who are facing diverse challenges including poverty, short and long-term physical and mental health conditions, social isolation, unemployment, and debt. We are looking forward to working with the Foundation over the coming year to provide support to people throughout the city.”

Douglas McLeod, regional managing director for Barratt Developments Scotland, said: “As Scotland’s leading housebuilder, with a national footprint, we’re committed to giving back to the areas in which we build.

“Charities like Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, Launch Foods and Dundee Bairns are providing vital support to families and individuals facing food poverty during a period where food prices among costs of other everyday items are increasingly rising.

“From tackling food poverty and supporting those with cancer, we’re pleased to be able to provide some support to help these charities continue their life-changing work.”

https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/

Tony Hadley opened the show but for many his appearance at 11am was too early in the day with many saying he should be headlining.

I arrived during Livin’ Joy’s banging performance of Dreamer. The Italian house classic got bodies moving and the retro 90s vibe was in full flow. 

Betty Boo has made a successful return to music after a long break from the industry. With tracks such as Doin’ The Doo, complete with 1960s dance moves, and Where Are You Baby? Now in her early 50s, Boo has changed little and is constantly on her toes during this exuberant performance that was both joyous and lively. She stops to take a breath and tells us about her Edinburgh roots around Portobello and Musselburgh. The more recent Get Me To The Weekend featured a Sample from headlines Human League. 

Dr and the Medics fronted by Clive Jackson very much brought the rock element of the day. Jackson is a fun performer and their set closer Spirit In The Sky was an emotional moment after being dedicated to Jared, a friend of Jackson’s who recently passed away. 

Hue and Cry delivered a smooth performance with Pat Kane in stunning voice, they opened with their 1989 hit Looking For Linda striking an immediate rapport. It was as if no time had passed for the slick Coatbridge brothers who cemented politics with Sinatra-style jazz. Hits such as I Refuse were lyrically ahead of their time, Kane dedicated the song to fathers and daughters. Violently is another track that mainlines straight to the heart all these years later. A foot-stomping Labour of Love let the soul, funk and jazz out into the open and was a reminder of the strength of the quality of music coming out of Scotland during the 1980s.

Liverpool’s The Farm took the stage for the hottest part of the day, front-man Peter Hooton in sunglasses even removed his anorak before the Scottish crowd during a set that included their hits Groovy Train and All Together Now.  

The Glasgow band Wet Wet Wet, even without their original line-up, charmed the crowd with the same kind of energy that brought them much success in the 80s and 90s. The Let’s Rock audience loved every moment but Wishing I Was Lucky was the runaway highlight.

The Human League have significant links with Edinburgh, their first classic single Being Boiled was released by the capital’s independent label Fast Product back in 1978. Tonight it’s more about the hits that defined them such as their 1982 hit Mirror Man and the definitive smash Don’t You Want Me Baby.

For many they were the highlight of the day. The festival continues to thrive in Scotland, aided by the weather this was one of the most memorable.

Let’s Rock at Dalkeith Country Park.

Young goalkeeper Maksymilian Boruc has joined Hibs.

The 20-year-old comes from the Polish side Slask Wroclaw on undisclosed terms, although it has been confirmed that the player has signed a two-year deal.

The highly-rated youngster signs after impressing on trial back in March 2023.

Known as Max, the keeper began his career with Swedish side Husqvarna FF, before having spells in England with Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion. He then made the switch to his hometown team, Slask Wroclaw who compete in the top-tier of Polish football.

Coming from a footballing background, Max is the cousin of former Celtic goalkeeper, Artur Boruc.

Hibernian FC Manager Lee Johnson commented: “We had the pleasure of having Max on trial last season and we could see that he has a lot of potential.

“We really liked him as a character and look forward to helping develop different attributes in his game.”

Olympic star teaches crucial water safety classes at local pool.

Young swimmers in Portobello received a day of vital water safety lessons alongside an Olympic medallist to mark Drowning Prevention Week.

Former Olympian Stephen Milne made a star appearance during a Learn to Swim event held at Portobello Swim Centre, with safety lessons offered to 77 children as part of the awareness week.

Nine swim classes were delivered across the day by local swim teachers and the Olympic swimmer, teaching crucial water safety skills, from floating techniques to the Water Safety Code. The event helped build on Learn to Swim’s foundations of creating ‘Generation Swim’ – a generation of safe, competent and confident swimmers.

Portobello Swim Centre, part of Edinburgh Leisure, is one of more than 160 pools in Scotland to offer Learn to Swim lessons as part of a National Framework made possible through a partnership between Scottish Swimming and Scottish Water.

Stephen Milne said: “No one should ever have to feel unsafe or uncomfortable in water, that’s why days like these are so important to reinforce the importance of water safety. One reason why Learn to Swim events like this are so important is to energise young swimmers to continue to learn and improve what is a vital life skill.

“It’s always a thrill getting back in the pool but particularly when it can leave a real impact on future generations.”

Stephen won a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil and has 5 Commonwealth Games medals having competed in three separate Commonwealth Games since 2014. He is also a world and European champion.

Following the lessons, Stephen hosted a captivating Q&A session to engage with all attendees. To commemorate the day, he presented aspiring swimmers with autographed swim caps and t-shirts, leaving a lasting impression with budding swim stars.

Kate Cramb, Operations Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “To host such a meaningful event is a real honour. Water safety is such a huge issue especially during the summer months when families start to spend more time near water – so these vital lessons genuinely do save lives.

“It was also great to welcome an Olympic star in Stephen, who was brilliant in reinforcing the importance of learning to swim to kids, all the while keeping it really fun and uplifting.”

The event marked the end of Drowning Prevention Week, in which more than 75,000 children were offered vital water safety lessons through the Learn to Swim National Framework across the span of the week.

Euan Lowe, CEO of Scottish Swimming, said: “Swimming lessons are the absolute foundations to ensuring water safety. To have Stephen’s presence and active involvement in them made for an unforgettable experience for the children which will hopefully inspire them to continue their safe swimming journey.

“Drowning is far too common in Scotland, and it is something that we are committed to addressing as a partnership. The event in Portobello allowed us to do that in an engaging way with children.”

Brian Lironi, Director of Corporate Affairs with Scottish Water, added: “We are thrilled with the tremendous success of the water safety event, which undoubtedly left a lasting impact on all participants.

“It is so important to see the next generation of confident swimmers engaging in water safety. Drowning prevention is a topic that needs serious attention all year round but the awareness week gave us another opportunity to reinforce lifesaving skills.”

Drowning Prevention Week, organised by the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS), stands as one of the largest water safety campaigns in the UK and Ireland, specifically targeting the summer season. Its primary goal is to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to make informed decisions regarding water safety, particularly during the summer months.

Learn to Swim is a National Framework committed to creating supportive and quality environments in which children can learn to swim regardless of their age, ability, or skill level. It aims to develop competent swimmers, as well as encouraging youngsters to adopt a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle with sport and fun at its heart.

For more information on the Learn to Swim programme, visit https://learntoswim.scot/

Orocco, the Edinburgh-based high-end renovation specialist, has responded to demand by adding two key hires to its senior management team.

With more than 35 years’ experience in construction, housebuilding and estimating, George McIntosh has joined as Commercial Manager.

He will liaise with clients, architects, site managers and teams on sites. He will be identifying risks and opportunities, proposing appropriate solutions and mitigations as well as managing commercial processes.

Gordon Dickson takes on the role of Contracts Manager as the firm prepares for a busy second half of the year.

He will oversee the development of all projects from pre-construction planning through to completion. Working closely between clients, architects and site managers, he will ensure builds and renovations are delivered to a high standard and on budget.

Both were previously with Laurence McIntosh, the architectural joiners and bespoke cabinet makers.

George McIntosh said: “I’m excited to join such an ambitious team as Orocco. Having seen the inspiring builds and renovations, I’m looking forward to the challenge of working within an innovative team to further grow the business. Supporting clients and architects to fulfil their dream builds is such a satisfying experience and I believe my experience alongside Orocco’s integrity, quality and accountability mean we can deliver even more impressive projects across Edinburgh and the Lothians.”

Gordon Dickson said: “I’m delighted to have joined Orocco as Contracts Manager. I have always been impressed by their high-end finish and the quality of workmanship. I’m excited to enhance such quality and bring my experience to our builds and renovations. As the business grows, I’m determined to be part of its development and contribute to the outstanding craftsmanship.”

The appointments come as founders Jonny Blurton and Mark Ivinson prepare to open the doors to Orocco’s impressive new headquarters in the B-listed West Church located on Old Edinburgh Road later this week.

“It’s brilliant to have George and Gordon as part of Orocco,” said Mr Blurton. “It’s been our ambition since we started in 2012 to grow Orocco to the stage that we can expand our project management team. This means we can give more support to our clients, architects and site managers on the incredible builds and renovations we deliver daily.”

Mr Ivinson added: “The latest appointments are another step in our strategy to create a self-sustaining business. As Orocco continues to grow, we’re building systems to allow the business to operate dynamically that will only improve the clients’ experience.”

Edinburgh Napier University has set up a new Masters degree course in sports journalism and places are available.

The new course will specialise in digital storytelling for sports coverage in print, online and broadcast.

The university has a multi-platform digital newsroom and studios for TV and radio and will offer students the chance to learn and develop practical skills for commentary and punditry – two key parts to being a sports journalist.

The course will include tuition on software such as Burli and Avid for audio and video, with teaching covering all forms of media now required by industry.

The programme is being led by David Tanner. David is well-known in the national media scene, best known for anchoring live football on Sky Sports, he has also hosted on BT Sports, STV News, Sky Sports News and Sky News.  

His career has taken him to more than 30 countries to cover sport, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Alongside his role at Edinburgh Napier, David is Scotland correspondent for talkSPORT, the world’s biggest sports radio station.  

Edinburgh Napier’s long-established journalism programme celebrated its 45^th anniversary in December last year, with a number of its alumni going on to have highly-respected, high-profile careers within the industry.  

In sports journalism specifically, names like David Tanner and his Sky Sports colleague Jim White, Chris McLaughlin, Orla Chennaoui and Amy Canavan have all stepped through the University’s doors at Merchiston campus before going on to be regulars on TV, radio and in newspapers discussing all things topical in the world of sport.  

Last year, Edinburgh Napier was named a top three UK university for journalism, publishing and public relations in the 2023 Guardian University Guide. 

Programme Leader for the new MA in Sports Journalism at Edinburgh Napier David Tanner said: “The new MA Sports Journalism is a wonderful opportunity for people like me who have a passion for both sport and the media. I have been fortunate to travel the world to present live sport to big audiences and cover big sports news stories, enjoying every minute of the work.  

“There are many job opportunities covering men’s and women’s sports for media outlets and, increasingly, within sporting clubs and organisations, so it seems the right time to launch this new sports-centred offering. 

“I am looking forward to working with colleagues in the University, backed-up by well-known external contributors from the media. The MA Sports Journalism is a whole new ball game for the teaching of journalism.” 

Dr Diane Maclean, Dean of Edinburgh Napier’s School of Arts & Creative Industries, said: “Edinburgh Napier’s journalism programme has a rich heritage and has helped to develop many of the country’s finest journalists throughout the past 45 years. The MA in Sports Journalism is an exciting new chapter for the programme and we look forward to nurturing the next generation of sports journalists, reporters, pundits and podcasters in the months and years ahead.” 

Applications for the new MA in Sports Journalism at Edinburgh Napier are now open.  

You can find out more about the course here. 

The first 40 under 40 list has been compiled by the Saltire Society made up of 40 talented creative Scots.

The outstanding talent comes from the areas of Literature and Publishing, Applied Sciences, Languages, Performing Arts and Visual Arts. The Society wants to bring them to public notice during the early to mid stages of their careers. The nominees were judged by a panel of experts with playwrights, singers, poets, climate activists, illustrators, printmakers, actors, musicians and a ground-breaking dentist.

Sarah Mason, Executive Director of The Saltire Society, said “We had an extraordinary number of talented young people nominated from every corner of Scotland, including Shetland, Orkney and Tiree, through Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and into the borders and Dumfries & Galloway across all five categories. It goes to show the incredible range of creative talent living and working in Scotland today. We are thrilled to reveal our ‘40 Under 40’ and celebrate the very best of the best.”

The panel of experts appointed by the Saltire Society to judge the hundreds of names put forward were Rosemary Ward, Alan Bissett, Steve Parkes, Zoe Strachan and Calum Colvin.

Literature & Publishing
Shehzar Doja (Poet & editor)
Harry Josephine Giles (Poet & novelist)
Pauline McKay (Academic specialising in Scottish literature)
Alicia Pirmohamed (Poet)
Maria Sledmere (Poet, editor, educator & critic)
Stef Smith (Playwright)
Roseanne Watt (Poet, film maker & musician)
Alasdair C Whyte (Gaelic singer, presenter & scholar)

Applied Sciences
Beatriz Goulao (Statistician)
Jack-James Marlow (Space Rocket Engineer)
Mhairi McCann (Founder & CEO of Youth STEM 2030)
Niall McGoldrick (Dentist)
Zahra Rattray (Senior Lecturer in Translational Pharmaceutics and Interdisciplinary Scientist)
Yasmin Sulaiman (Head of Partnerships, CodeBase)
Talat Yaqoob (Campaigner, Writer & Commentator)
Laura Young (Climate Influencer / Activist)

Languages
Iona Brown (Gaelic teacher & singer)
Iona Fyfe (Singer)
Emma Grae (Author & Journalist)
Alistair Heather (Journalist)
Linda MacLeod (Gaelic singer & TV Presenter)
Ellen Pennie (Poet)
Lana Pheutan (Gaelic singer, writer & actor)
Ian Smith (Accordion Player & Musician)

Visual Arts
Jennifer Argo (Multi-media artist)
Flora Collingwood Norris (Textile designer)
Michael Doherty (Portrait artist)
Rhona Jack (Multi-disciplinary artist)
Zephyr Liddell (Textile artist)
Sekai Machache (Photographer & multi-media artist)
Lily Macrae (Painter & printmaker)
Joshua Wilson (Illustrator)

Performing Arts
Kevin P. Gilday (Spoken word artist, theatre maker)
Emma Hay (Programme manager)
Kieran Hurley (Writer, performer, theatre Maker)
Danielle Jam (Actor)
Reuben Joseph (Actor)
Isobel McArthur (Theatre maker & actor)
Rachel Sermanni (Scottish folk & indie musician)
Robyn Stapleton (Scots singer)

Two Edinburgh charities, Health in Mind and Edinburgh Women’s Aid which marks its 50th anniversary this year, will benefit from a partnership with St James Quarter (SJQ) for the next two years.

SJQ will work with the organisations to highlight the work that they do and will also support them by hosting fundraising activities. The Quarter’s own team will benefit by improving their own skills on identifying and dealing with issues around domestic violence or mental wellbeing. And their retail and hospitality academy, FUSE, will support people helped by the charities to get into work.

Edinburgh Women’s Aid provides support and refuge to women and children affected by domestic abuse, helping over 2,000 women and 250 children each year. Through the partnership, SJQ aims to raise awareness of issues relating to domestic violence and the incredibly valuable services the charity offers, including, employability support, legal support, safe refuge and support groups to promote positive wellbeing and recovery.  

Health in Mind is a leading Scottish mental health charity based in Edinburgh, with a vision that everyone in Scotland should have positive mental health and wellbeing, and can access high-quality support if, when and how they need it. Recognising the far-reaching impact of mental health, SJQ hopes that this partnership will shine a light on the many resources and support services that Health in Mind offer, and the real difference they can make to people’s lives.

Alex McGinness, Technical Services Director and Corporate Social Responsibility Chair at SJQ said: “St James Quarter is committed to supporting charities that do incredible and valuable work in the city and beyond and we’re extremely proud to be partnering with Health in Mind and Edinburgh Women’s Aid for the next two years.

“We will support each organisation’s charitable initiatives and work together on exciting events and activations to raise awareness or funds. The partnerships will also open up training opportunities for our employees on important matters relating to mental health and domestic abuse. The charities are truly doing transformative work and it’s a privilege to be partnering with them”.

Wendy Bates, Chief Executive of Health in Mind said: “Health in Mind has been promoting positive mental health and wellbeing in communities across Edinburgh since 1982 and we’re pleased that now includes the St James Quarter community – from its staff to those who visit. 

“St James Quarter is a key venue in Edinburgh and our partnership will have a lasting impact in raising awareness for mental health and wellbeing and our available Health in Mind support.”

Linda Rodgers, Chief Executive Officer at Edinburgh Women’s Aid said: “In our 50th anniversary year, we are absolutely delighted to be partnering with St James Quarter.  Both Edinburgh Women’s Aid and St James Quarter are key actors in life in Edinburgh. 

“This amazing partnership creates an opportunity for us to jointly signal that supporting women and children to live safely and free from abuse is at the heart of Edinburgh’s community values.”

MS Victoria

The ship MS Victoria which is docked in Leith has been home to Ukrainian refugees for the last year. Now the UK Government has announced that it is their intention to use the ship to house asylum seekers. The City of Edinburgh Council discussed the issue on Thursday and the Council Leader will write to the UK Government asking them to clarify their plans.

Council Leader Cllr Cammy Day said: “Over the last year and a half, we’ve shown solidarity with, and support for, thousands of Ukrainian refugees who have fled Russia’s illegal war on Ukraine, as we have for Syrian, Afghani and, most recently, Sudanese refugees. Thankfully most of us will never experience the horrors these communities have faced, and we remain absolutely committed to supporting them in whatever way we can.

“As Ukrainian refugees continue to disembark MS Victoria following The Scottish Government’s decision to end its use next month, we were extremely surprised to be contacted by the Home Office about their intentions to commission the ship to house asylum seekers. All the more surprising given their previous advice that it would be impossible for it to remain.

“We were not consulted on this and urgently require further details from the UK Government on their plans. I know The Scottish Government and COSLA are in the same position and, having written jointly to the Minister of State for Immigration, Robert Jenrick MP, we’ve yet to receive a satisfactory response to our questions and concerns.

“The potential consequences for the Council in terms of the pressures on our services – and the city as a whole – are severe and, barring robust partnership discussions involving NHS, police and other colleagues, we will continue to oppose these plans in the strongest terms. Further, it is our understanding that Forth Ports are also against these proposals.

“Many of these people have risked their lives to make it to Europe and what they need is recognition and rights, not an unknown future without the support they so desperately need. While the MS Victoria has been a place of refuge for many Ukrainian families arriving in Edinburgh, until we have adequate reassurances from the UK Government regarding the welfare and ongoing engagement and support, we cannot allow it to become a floating prison for asylum seekers.”

Meeting in St Margaret’s Park

A meeting is being convened on Tuesday evening in St Margaret’s Park organised by Jackie Connor and Stop the Corstorphine LTN, and promoted by a group called Accessible Corstorphine for Everyone (ACE) who say this will be an important meeting.

There is an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order in place in Corstorphine where the council plans a Low Traffic Neighbourhood or LTN. ACE claim that this will push traffic onto roads which are already over capacity.

They also say on Facebook: “This is our opportunity to make the council listen! Corstorphine said NO, and we won’t back down!

“It’s time to show them that we stand united and will not accept this decision silently. Let’s make history together!”

We understand that both the Council Leader and the Transport Convener will meet a few people representing the group soon. Cllr Arthur also took part in a two hour Zoom meeting of Corstorphine Community Council last week, answering questions about the scheme.

In June 2022 the council published its independent market research about the introduction of a Low Traffic Neighbourhood here which would align with the key objectives of the City Mobility Plan to reduce car dependency, promote active travel and increase the quality of public spaces”.

You can read the research document here.

Edinburgh is not alone in experiencing opposition to change such as the LTN in Corstorphine.

Court of Session to live stream court proceedings

It used to be Perry Mason which took up the daytime TV slots, but now you can watch justice unfold live with a new court streaming service from the Court of Session.

This will be the first court in Scotland to allow cases to be viewed remotely by the public, which it is hoped will lead to more openness about the workings of the court. Read more here.

The first case begins at 10.30am – Lagan Construction Group Limited v Scots Roads Partnership & Ferrovial Construction

Friends of the Pentlands

The Friends are working to renovate the steep section of steps between Bonaly and Dreghorn.

The charity does a lot to preserve the area, and is always looking for new members for volunteering and social events.

Read the latest newsletter here:

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How to subscribe to The Edinburgh Reporter

All of our content is free to access but if you would like to support us and also get your own copy of our monthly paper delivered to you each month then you can subscribe here. The paper is always on the streets on the 1st of each month and the July issue is going to press today.

Or click on the front page below. And if you have any stories then do get in touch.

New broadcasting equipment has been installed in Court 1 at the Court of Session where live-streaming of cases will begin from today.

This will be the first court in Scotland to allow cases to be viewed remotely by the public, which it is hoped will lead to more openness about the workings of the court.

A camera operator will control the audio and visual output to ensure the service is of high quality.

The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) website will also be updated with details of the new service and provide information on upcoming cases, including the first instance opinion, a case summary, and a link to the live feed.

This will allow the public, academics and the media improved access to substantive hearings.

During the pandemic SCTS introduced the facility to live stream cases while courts were closed to the public.

Inner House judge Lord Pentland, who is leading the project, said: “Justice being dispensed in public is one of the most fundamental principles we have in this country and absolutely central to the running of the justice system. It reinforces the independence, integrity and stability of our courts.

“Technology presents us with the opportunity to widen public access and make the courts more visible and accessible. We must seize that opportunity and ensure that the principle of open justice continues to be upheld in a world where almost everything can be done online.

“The launch of Court of Session Live will help to inform and educate the public about the work of the judiciary and the court, and allow interested parties to view proceedings when they are unable to attend in person.

“It will provide the media with greater access to cases to assist with informed and accurate reporting, and allow academics and students to engage with the court process in a more convenient way.

“This is an exciting initiative for the courts and an important step in ensuring justice is seen to be done in a manner fit for a modern court system.”

Eric McQueen, Chief Executive of SCTS added: “Digital innovation is changing the way in which we work and how we communicate. 

“The technology we now have at our disposal means that we can open up the courts to a wider audience – without the need for physical attendance – increasing both access to justice and transparency of the courts. 

“The launch of Court of Session Live is a further significant step along the road, using digital innovation where appropriate to support justice.”

Click here for the SCTS webpage.

Edinburgh University striker Lunjika Nyirenda been a consistent goal grabber this season and has been rewarded by being named in the Scotland women’s hockey squad to face the Czech Republic to Edinburgh this weekend.

The double-header is on Saturday, 1 July, and Sunday 2 July, at Peffermill and the university side have five players included in the squad including emerging talent, Sophie Hinds.

Great international players Sarah Robertson, Amy Costello, Charlotte Watson, Fiona Burnet and Jen Eadie are also included and the games are the last home matches before the EuroHockey Championships in Monchengladbach, Germany, in August.

There, Scotland play the best in Europe and they are in Group B against England, Germany and Ireland. The Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and Italy meet in Group A.

Edinburgh-based Chris Duncan, the squad’s head coach, said: “Playing international hockey at home is a special moment for all of the players and staff.

“To bring international competition to Scotland in July is something that we want to celebrate and the games against the Czech Republic give us the chance to ramp up our final preparations for Europe, but also to play in front of the passionate Scottish crowd.

“These games will see the return of our Great Britain players into Scottish colours before we head to England and France, then ultimately to Germany to compete, so we would love to see a packed stand at Peffermill to cheer the team on.”

Tickets are available at https://www.seetickets.com/event/scotland-women-v-czech-rep-women/peffermill-playing-fields/2689684

PICTURE: Amy Costello (yellow bib) and Sarah Robertson challenge for the ball in training. Picture by Nigel Duncan

Squad

Amy Costello (Surbiton HC)

Amy Gibson (Grove Menzieshill)

Bronwyn Shields (Clydesdale Western)

Charlotte Watson (Beeston HC)

Ellie Wilson (Watsonians HC)

Eve Pearson (The University of Edinburgh)

Fiona Burnet (Wimbledon)

Heather McEwan (Royal Victory)

Jennifer Eadie (Wimbledon)

Jess Ross (The University of Edinburgh)

Jessica Buchanan (Sevenoaks HC)

Katie Birch (Durham University)

Katie Robertson (VC) (The University of Edinburgh)

Laura Swanson (Der Club An Der Alster)

Lunjika Nyirenda (The University of Edinburgh)

Millie Steiger (Clydesdale Western)

Ruth Blaikie (AMVJ)

Sarah Jamieson (Watsonians HC)

Sarah Robertson (C) (Hampstead & Westminster)

Sophie Hinds (The University of Edinburgh)

Just before plastic free July get along to an in person business networking event with the founder of The Refillery.

Award-winning eco-entrepreneur Kelly Wright, founder of The Refillery, plastic free, ethical grocery stores, unveils her franchise expansion plans at Edinburgh business event on Thursday and ways to adopt a minimal waste lifestyle ahead of Plastic Free July, a global movement to help stop plastic pollution.

Kelly, a former commercial director at an international seafood company, launched her retail business, which sells an extensive range of wholefoods, herbs and spices, detergents and bathroom essentials that can be refilled in existing packaging or other containers, five years ago after witnessing first-hand the overuse of plastic in the world and in particular the food industry.

There are at two shops in Edinburgh at the moment, in Newington and in Waverley Market, and two franchises, one in Corstorphine. The other, which is the first one south of the border and is newly opened, is in Canterbury with plans to launch more franchises across the UK over the next five years.

Kelly’s commitment from day one has been to only sell ethically sourced products and support local producers, including Company Bakery,  Planet Kuku, Earthy Vegan Cheese, Williams & Johnson and Aye Pickled, helping to create plastic free and circular supply systems that encourage, and makes it easier, for shoppers to turn off the plastic tap.

Products are also available to buy on the online store which was launched during lockdown and now has over 1500 products.  In partnership with One Tribe, The Refillery makes a donation every time a purchase is made to help save trees in the rainforest and protect indigenous communities.

Accolades over the years, include the Citi Micro-Entrepreneur Award for Sustainability and regional winner of the Great Britain Entrepreneurship Award Business For Good Category, and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Innovation and Sustainability Award.

he Love Your Business networking event is held monthly at Black Ivy Hotel in Bruntsfield, and was founded by Michelle Brown from the eponymous PR agency in 2018. Michelle wanted to help bring businesses together to help build their network and share contacts and referrals, and support each other. This week Kelly will be sharing the story of her entrepreneurial journey over the past five years and the franchise expansion plans.

She will also explain how we can all do our bit to become more conscious consumers, reduce waste and create a world free of plastic

The networking events have attracted over 160 guest speakers in the last five years, including Marie Owen, founder of LS Productions, Scott Hastings, Larah Bross, founder of Bross Bagels, Paul Tasner, the Californian based eco-entrepreneur and founder of PulpWorks, Alice Thompson, co-founder of Social Bite and motivational coach, and Chris van der Kuyl CBE, chairman and co-founder of 4J Studios.

Kelly said: “It’s never been more important to become a conscious consumer and our vision is to make plastic free and ethical shopping accessible to as many people as possible, which is why I’m delighted to be able to share my story and franchise goals for the future with everyone at Love Your Business this week. Together as a community we can all help make a difference and protect our planet.”

Michelle said: “Kelly has an incredible story to share when it comes to leaving the corporate world and embarking on something which she is incredibly passionate about and educating people on the circular economy and reducing waste.

“Attendees will not only be able to hear about her expansion over the past five years and further growth plans by opening more franchises but also how they can do their bit to become more eco-conscious.”

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/love-your-business-in-june-tickets-507569743767?fbclid=IwAR3rcaTR1lPT0KyTYnCYTZ-1l7qJfotprCtR-qmVaIfHfnh0rdvvOpBtyfM

Tickets for the next networking event at Black Ivy Bar & Hotel on Thursday 29 June, 11-1pm are £20 plus booking, link – https://bit.ly/43sd4lN – 10% of all ticket sales go to the LYB 2023 good cause fund, Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh.

Detectives from the specialist child abuse investigation team of Essex Police have secured justice for a woman who was abused by an Edinburgh man more than 30 years ago. 

Sixty-nine year-old James Boyle was convicted in April of abusing the female between 1986 and 1991 when she was a teenager.

The offences took place in Cambridgeshire while Boyle was a serving Cambridgeshire Police officer. He later retrained to become a barrister.

The victim reported what had happened to her in 2018 following an exchange of messages on social media.

She told the police that Boyle’s abuse had left her feeling upset, ashamed, and guilty.

However, following the investigation Boyle, of Sunbury Place, Edinburgh was convicted of two counts of rape and one of indecent assault following a trial at Cambridgeshire Crown Court.

At the same court on Monday he was sentenced to 16 years in jail. 

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Carla Hillyer, now positioned on the specialist Quest team of Essex Police, said: “James Boyle’s abuse has had a significant impact on the victim, and I want to pay tribute to the bravery she has shown in coming forward and telling us what happened.

“At the time he was questioned in relation to the offences, Boyle was a trained defence barrister. He knew the system, and had support from many professional colleagues, providing character references in his defence. 

“He denied the abuse he subjected the victim to ever happened.

“And yet the jury saw through this and found him guilty.

“No court result will ever turn back time but I hope this helps the victim move forward.

“She has been listened to and she has been believed. It is never too late to get justice.”

DS Hillyer added: “I also want to highlight the work of Detective Constable Adam Clarke who has worked tirelessly on this case.

“I am pleased our efforts have resulted in Boyle’s conviction and justice for the victim.”

Essex Police highlight that support is there for anyone affected by rape and sexual abuse, and no victim or survivor is alone. Synergy Essex provides specialist support for victims and survivors of rape and sexual abuse of all ages and all genders across Essex, Thurrock and Southend.

An NSPCC Scotland spokesperson said: “For more than 30 years ago Boyle had got away with exploiting his position of trust as a serving police officer to sexually abuse a young person.

“His victim has been forced for decades to live with the knowledge that he had never faced justice for his terrible actions. Thankfully, that has changed today.

“We hope the brave woman in this case can now find some comfort in Boyle’s conviction and sentencing.

“It is so important that anyone who has experienced sexual abuse speaks out, no matter who the offender is and how long ago the offence took place, and that they are given all the support they need to move forwards with their lives.

“Children and young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111, and adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 8005000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk.”

Synergy Essex is a partnership of rape and sexual abuse centres in Essex: CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse), SERICC Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis). Synergy Essex is independent from the police and provides support for victims and survivors throughout their journey.  Victims and survivors can self-refer, or be referred by a parent, partner, friend or professional and can access specialist emotional support, counselling and advocacy.  For victims and survivors who report to the police, Synergy Essex provides an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) service, providing support throughout the criminal justice process.  For more information visit the Synergy Essex website: https://synergyessex.org.uk/    

Hainan Airlines has resumed its service from Edinburgh to Beijing, connecting the two capitals with a twice weekly service.

This is the only direct route from Scotland to China and the Airbus 330 will depart Edinburgh on Mondays and Fridays between 26 June and 6 October.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “We’re excited to be reconnecting Scotland and China and deliver yet more destination and experience choices for our passengers.

“Our countries are both steeped in history and heritage, and this Hainan Airlines service will make it easier for people in Scotland and China to experience the very best of our countries. It’s also another signal of strength in Edinburgh as a destination for people across the world.

“We know that there is a deep connection between our countries and this route will help to reconnect friends, families and businesses, as well as allow us to forge new economic relationships to the benefit of Scotland on a national and local level.”

Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:

“I warmly welcome the start of Hainan’s direct service between Edinburgh Airport and Beijing. This direct connectivity is great news for people and businesses in both Scotland and China, building strong links for business and exports, as well as making it easier for visitors and students to come and experience Scotland.

“Our aspiration is for Scotland to be as well connected globally as peer nations and regions and this service is an important boost to our international connectivity, demonstrating growing confidence in the Scottish aviation market.” 

“I wish Edinburgh Airport and Hainan every success with this service.”

Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “I warmly welcome the start of Hainan’s direct service between Edinburgh Airport and Beijing. This direct connectivity is great news for people and businesses in both Scotland and China, building strong links for business and exports, as well as making it easier for visitors and students to come and experience Scotland.

“Our aspiration is for Scotland to be as well connected globally as peer nations and regions and this service is an important boost to our international connectivity, demonstrating growing confidence in the Scottish aviation market.” 

“I wish Edinburgh Airport and Hainan every success with this service.”

On Monday there was a fierce competition being fought out at Holyrood. This one took place in the parliament garden with MSPs and their dogs being put through their paces.

The winner was Winner David Torrance, MSP, and Buster a six year-old Golden Retriever.

Mark Ruskell with Joy, a Greyhound won the Pawblic vote. Presiding Officer, Alison Johnstone and Oakley a Dogs trust dog were in third place and Tess White with Kura a Flat coat retriever won second place.

The Holyrood Dog of the Year celebrates the bond between the owner and their dog. There is continued concern over the cost of living and the cost of keeping a dog, but balanced against the benefits to mental health.

Representatives highlighted some of the advice they offer and how best MSPs can use this information to help concerned constituents continue to provide for their beloved dogs.

Then the MSPs and their pups went for it over the puppy paw-sault course demonstrating their skills at a variety of different exercises and agility tests.

Mark Ruskell won the Pawblic vote with Joy, a four year old three-legged greyhound. Joy is a former racing dog that survived a serious injury as a result of racing. The dog belongs to an animal welfare campaigner and constituent who lives in the Mid Scotland & Fife region that Mark represents.

This is Mark’s second win in a row after he secured last year’s vote with a different former racing dog Bluesy. A few years before that Mark secured the Pawblic vote with his rescued former racing dog Bert. 

Mark has long campaigned for a phase out of greyhound racing in Scotland, and will be working with Joy to make that happen.

Mark said: “I am delighted that so many people have been touched by Joy and her story. She is a beautiful dog and I was proud to take her to Holyrood where she was able to win people’s hearts as well as their votes.

“Joy is super friendly with people and fellow dogs. She has a tail that never stops wagging, and she does not let the fact that she is a three-legged dog get in the way of her running, playing or socialising. 

“Holyrood Dog of the Year is a great initiative. I am sure that Joy will use her win as an opportunity to raise awareness of the concerns around greyhound racing in Scotland, the unacceptable level of injuries and deaths and the need for this gambling led industry to be phased out.  

“Former racing greyhounds make amazing family pets and Joy is a great advert for rehomed greyhounds everywhere.”

An album recorded live at a former Edinburgh jazz venue is one of the inspirations behind a Dublin radio presenter becoming a record company executive.

Dermot Rogers, who hosts a weekly music programme on Dublin City FM was listening to Overdrive by Irish guitarist Louis Stewart when he realised that Stewart’s recorded legacy was in danger of being consigned to history.

Overdrive was recorded in the basement of the Tron bar in Hunter Square, a regular spot in 1990s for jazz concerts organised by a group of enthusiasts including the late Bill Kyle, who subsequently opened the Jazz Bar in Chambers Street.

In February 1993 Kyle booked Louis Stewart with Scottish bass and drums team Ronnie Rae and Tony McLennan. The enterprising Alastair Robertson, of Edinburgh-based Hep Records, was given permission to record the gig and he released it as Overdrive in 1995.

“Overdrive is a great example of what Louis Stewart could do almost as a matter of course during his career,” says Rogers. “He would turn up and play with local musicians and deliver a concert that was good enough to be released on a CD. It didn’t happen all that often, though, and while Overdrive has remained in the catalogue, other recordings of Louis’ haven’t.”

Stewart, who died in 2016, was a musician who deserved a much higher profile. He had become the first Irish jazz musician to play at world class level when he toured with clarinettist-bandleader Benny Goodman. He went on to feature with pianist George Shearing, French swing violin master Stephane Grappelli and saxophonists Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott. He also formed mutual admiration societies with more famous guitarists including Joe Pass, Jim Hall and Martin Taylor.

Rogers used to go and see Stewart whenever he played in Dublin and it occurred to him that there must be other people out there who wished they had Stewart’s records.

“I had no ambitions of running a record company,” says Rogers. “But I thought about the albums that Louis had recorded for Livia Records in Dublin and were no longer available. There was a solo album, Out on His Own, that a lot of people talked about and I thought it would be good for people to be able to hear that again.”

Livia Records was founded by Gerald Davis, a Dublin-based artist, art gallery proprietor, literary scholar and music lover, in 1977. He released Stewart’s Out on His Own the same year. At the time Stewart was playing in saxophonist Ronnie Scott’s quintet and featuring regularly in Scott’s London jazz club. On trips back to Dublin, Stewart would play locally and if there was a chance to record for Livia Records, he’d take it.

Aware that Gerald Davis had died in 2005, Rogers started looking into what had become of the Livia catalogue. He tracked down Davis’ son, Les, in Christchurch, New Zealand and was given Les’ blessing to access the Livia Records vault.

A remastered Out on His Own became the first release of the new Livia era in February this year. It has now been followed by a previously unreleased, and little known, duo recording by Stewart and his friend and mentor, pianist Noel Kelehan, Some Other Blues.

“This album is actually the only known recording by Louis and Noel, who had quite a history of working together,” says Rogers. “People who knew them have dubbed Some Other Blues ‘the holy grail of Irish jazz’ because of its rarity value. Like Out on His Own, it was recorded in 1977 when Louis would fit in gigs with Noel in Dublin on visits home from London.”

Noel Kelehan went on to become a busy composer, arranger and conductor for Irish broadcaster RTE. This reduced the time he had available for playing jazz, but Some Other Blues finds both him and Stewart at the peak of their abilities. The former head of jazz for Sony Music UK and Europe has described the album’s opening track, Yesterdays, as “phenomenal.”

Rogers has plans to release more Louis Stewart albums and has been heartened by the response to his two releases as the new Livia Records boss so far.

“Both Out on His Own and Some Other Blues have had great reviews,” says Rogers. “They’ve also been featured on radio in the US, Canada, France, Belgium, and Australia, as well as in the UK and Ireland, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Louis isn’t around to enjoy this appreciation, but I’d like to think that we can introduce him to generations of new fans through the albums we have released and plan to release. It’s nothing more than he deserves.”

The number of people who visited the Royal Highland Show over the last four days totalled around 217,000, and tickets are already on sale for next year.

Among the visitors, 26,500 school children attended for free whether on a school visit or with their families.

The Flock to the Show campaign ended at the Show with all 38 sculptures on show forming a trail around the ground. There will be a charity auction on 7 September with all proceeds going to the RHASS Bicentenary Fund, supporting rural projects dedicated to mental health, sustainability, succession and women in agriculture.

Celebrating the best of Scotland’s food, farming and rural life, high-profile figures attending included: HRH Anne, the Princess Royal; First Minister of Scotland Humza Yousaf, Minister of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affair, Mark Spencer, Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, Scotland Office Minister John Lamont and Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon.

RHASS Head of Show, David Tennant, said: “As we wrap up another phenomenal Royal Highland Show, we are delighted to have welcomed a record-breaking number of visitors pass through the gates. The strong demand is testament to the fact that the Show has major appeal way beyond the loyal farming community – anyone and everyone can find something to enjoy, no matter your interest.

“Our thanks go out to the hundreds of staff who make this possible, and the RHASS Directors who give up their time year-round to make this incredible event possible. And, if you had a great day out this year, the good news is you can grab a bargain with the Super Early Bird tickets for 2024, on sale now.”

Sponsored by Royal Bank of Scotland, next year’s Royal Highland Show will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, 20-23 June 2024.

For further information and to purchase tickets please visit royalhighlandshow.org.

At St James Quarter on Saturday pre-Pride celebrations took place with the drag queens Sissy Scorpio and Rozie Cheeks who welcomed visitors, striking poses and dancing.

There was glitter face paining for everyone to enjoy and a dance atmosphere with the DJ Trendy Wendy filling the Quarter with Pride anthems until 7pm.

They handed out rainbow flags to guests before heading off to the Pride March to Bristo Square.

Keep up to date with what is going on using the St James Quarter app here.

Leading experts save millions for the third year running.

Scotland’s largest water retailer claims it has saved the country’s public sector a record £2.85 million over the course of the last year, taking total savings over three years to £6.4 million.

Business Stream has supported public sector organisations across the country, including NHS Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland and the Scottish Government with leak detection, water efficiency and smart monitoring services as part of a three-year contract.

As a result of the retailer’s activities, the sector has also saved more than 1.365 billion litres of water over the past year, equivalent to the volume of 546 Olympic swimming pools.

This in turn has delivered energy savings reducing 574,778 kg of carbon – comparable to removing 438 single passenger flights from Edinburgh to New York.

Jo Dow, Chief Executive of Business Stream, said: “We’re really pleased to have delivered significant savings for Scotland’s public sector again this year.

“Our experience in working with the sector has allowed us to develop a suite of services and solutions that are helping the sector to reduce costs, save time and generate environmental efficiencies.  We’re looking forward to delivering further savings in the year ahead”.

Through constantly striving to improve efficiency and service, the 350-strong water retailer has increased public sector savings year-on-year, from £1.4 million in 2021 to £2.2 million in 2022.

As one of the largest water retailers in the UK, Business Stream was awarded the Scottish Government Public Sector Water and Waste Water Framework contract in early 2020. The contract, worth around £200 million over three years, also includes the Scottish Prison Service, universities and colleges and local authorities. In 2022, Business Stream was awarded an additional one-year extension to the contract, which is currently underway.

A spokesperson from the Scottish Procurement and Property Directorate utilities team, said: “Business Stream has continued to work with the public sector to identify water efficiency opportunities.

“This pro-active approach has reduced water consumption and provided financial savings for public sector customers of the Water and Waste Water Framework. Reducing cost and carbon impact is essential for supporting Scotland’s green economic recovery and helping us on our journey to a Net Zero Nation.”

The water retailer recently announced it had delivered £50,000 of funding to six public sector initiatives through its annual Public Sector Scotland (PSS) Water Efficiency Fund.

This year’s successful candidates of the Fund include a Heriot-Watt University initiative to install a water chiller unit to cool, condense and recirculate used water; the installation of modern, electronic low-flow taps at Glasgow Caledonian University; and the fitting of waterless urinals and aerator tap technology at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University.

Jo added: “The Water Efficiency Fund plays a key role in identifying and funding innovative ways to minimise water waste and generate efficiency savings. Our investment in these projects highlights our commitment to supporting Scotland’s public sector.”

Originally created in 2006 to offer best in class water services to businesses in Scotland, Business Stream later acquired the non-household customer base of Southern Water ahead of the planned opening of the English retail water market.

That market change in 2017 paved the way for 1.2 million businesses and public bodies in England to be able to choose their water supplier. In 2019 Business Stream acquired the customer base of its competitors Yorkshire Water Business Services (YWBS) and Three-Sixty, doubling its market share.

Business Stream has its HQ in Edinburgh, as well as a presence in Worthing, West Sussex and in Bradford, West Yorkshire. It is guided by its ambitious vision to make a positive difference to its customers, its people, the environment and local communities.

Since launching that vision in 2019, the retailer has introduced more than 30 initiatives, including a 20% water efficiency pledge to help customers reduce water usage. It has also invested in a tree-planting programme which has delivered an additional 10,000 trees in Scotland.

The savings success comes after Business Stream recently halved its carbon emissions in just one year, exceeding the retailer’s pledge to cut emissions by 20% over the same period.

Last resort anti-social behaviour powers could be harnessed by the police in Edinburgh to crack down on increasing ‘lawlessness and bloody violence’ in the Old Town.

City council leader Cammy Day said dispersal orders could be used to tackle crime in the area, following a desperate plea by businesses for help.

An open letter sent to police chief, councillors and MSPs including the First Minister said “shocking anti-social behaviour and unbelievable levels of theft” had reached “unprecedented and totally unacceptable levels” and were “corroding” the historic city centre streets.

Among the claims was that of dead bodies lying in the street for hours ‘with the public walking by thinking they were just sleeping’.

Police said addressing the problem was “an absolute priority” and have widened the Old Town’s bail exclusion zone which can ban offenders from visiting.

The council said that more CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor the situation.

It comes more than a year after a group of local traders warned the council the area had become a ‘no go zone’ for many as a result of the issues faced.

The Tron Area Business Group said: “Fifteen months ago, we expressed our dire concerns regarding escalating crime, including vicious violence, ugly drug and alcohol abuse, drug dealing, and alarmingly high levels of theft in the city centre.

“We find ourselves once again compelled to shed light on these same issues, as the situation has yet to improve.

“The lawlessness and extreme antisocial behaviour, including public indecency, intimidation, and threatening behaviour towards residents, business staff, and visitors to our beautiful capital city, have reached unprecedented and totally unacceptable levels.”

Responding to the comments at a full council meeting on Thursday Cllr Day said: “I’m more than happy to meet with the traders there and I did speak earlier on about the need for potentially the use of dispersal orders.”

A dispersal order is a rarely-used measure which gives the police, in consultation with the council, the power to designate a zone in which officers can direct a person to leave if it’s suspected they are likely to cause trouble.

Cllr Day said they had been used previously but acknowledged they “weren’t popular with the police”.

He added: “I accept that’s only one option, but I would rather meet with city centre councillors and businesses to come up with a solution.”

The open letter said incidents of break-ins and windows being broken were now “commonplace” and staff working in the area had become traumatised after witnessing “drunken and drugged individuals using extreme violence on each other” and people “physically attacking and punching stationary road traffic signs”.

It added businesses were spending “literally thousands of pounds a week” on security in order to feel safe.

The group have called for specific changes to be made such as “greatly increased and sustained police presence” and a review the number off-licences locally as well as relocation of the methadone dispensary on Spittal Street.

They also want members of The Scottish Government, council, NHS, police, courts and the third sector to get together to hold an “emergency summit” to “develop an action plan for change”.

Chief Inspector Murray Tait, local area commander for Edinburgh City Centre, said: “I want to make it clear to all local businesses and residents within the Tron, Hunter Square and Royal Mile area that all incidents of criminality remain an absolute priority for Edinburgh Division and are investigated thoroughly and professionally whenever they are reported.

“Over the last 12 months, my officers have worked with the City of Edinburgh Council and a range of stakeholders to respond to issues of criminality and anti-social behaviour, but also to seek increased support provision in the area and explore potential environmental improvements.

“As well as enforcement, officers are signposting offenders to a range of specialist support to assist with issues such as homelessness, addiction and mental health.

“Working alongside the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, we have established a wider bail exclusion zone to include the Southside corridor, in addition to the existing Old Town exclusion zone.

“We have also just concluded a six month programme which was partly funded by Police Scotland’s Local Community Policing fund, which sought a holistic approach to working with partners to deliver increased individual support.

“In addition, officers chair a regular working group set up to drive improvements in the area, which includes cleaning and re purposing opportunities.

“We continue to engage regularly with residents and all local businesses to tackle the issues raised and this remains an ongoing commitment.”

Cllr Tim Pogson, chair of Edinburgh Community Safety and Justice Partnership, said: “We’re committed to continuing to work with Police Scotland and other partners to address issues of anti-social behaviour in the capital.

“We take incidents around Hunters Square, The Tron and Royal Mile very seriously as the area is a prime public space in the centre of our beautiful city and we want to make sure it’s accessible and inviting to all.

“For example CCTV colleagues have installed a new digital camera within the area that has a pan tilt and zoom camera with an additional four static cameras which are monitored 24/7.”

Calls have been made for community policing to be stepped-up at an Edinburgh primary school where staff “regularly feel threatened and unsafe at work”.

Incidents of parents fighting in the playground and “aggression and violence” toward teachers and support staff have been reported at Ferryhill Primary School on Wester Drylaw Avenue. 

The Drylaw school’s parent council said some fights had involved “dangerous weapons” such as poles and hammers. 

This month members threatened to take their children out of school in protest at a lack of action to address growing safety fears, however called-off the ‘strike day’ following a commitment from the council that new measures would be put in place to stem the anti-social behaviour.

And now a union is calling for a community policing presence at the school to deal with the behaviours of “a minority of parents”.

Pauline Henderson, convener of communities and families for Unison Edinburgh, said officers should be at the school at the beginning and end of the school day “when the behaviours are at their worst” starting after the summer break.

She said: “In the last few months we at Unison have been dealing with members who have been adversely affected by the situation.

“Our members regularly feel threatened and unsafe at work as parents in the playground and the school building display aggressive behaviour towards other parents and staff.”

A statement issued by Ferryhill Primary Parent Council earlier this month said there were also reported instances of infant and nursery children leaving the premises and school grounds unattended “on more than one occasion”.

It said concerns of “bullying, violence, and racism” have led to “fear and apprehension among children and parents” and “reluctance in entering the playground”. 

It added: “Our foremost priority is to support the dedicated staff members of Ferryhill Primary School, who are working tirelessly to overcome these challenges. 

“The school has devised a plan to navigate through these issues, but we acknowledge that this is a complex process that requires time and effort.”

The parents have demanded a time line is drawn up setting out when changes will be implemented by the council and police and said they would not rule out reviving plans for strike action if the situation does not improve. 

Ms Henderson said: “The management team and head teacher within the school are extremely supportive of the whole staff and have put into place various initiatives to try and counteract and stem these behaviours, but unfortunately they have continued throughout the term spilling over into  events where staff children and parents have all been affected.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers in Edinburgh are aware of a small number of incidents reported to police in the Wester Drylaw Avenue area over the past few months.

“We will continue to engage with our education partners to respond to any concerns that are raised, and will focus our attention as required.”

The new Festival Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival (EIBF) will take over in September when Nick Barley steps down after 14 years.

Jenny Niven who is a cultural producer and director has been named as his successor. Niven has worked on a range of literary festivals in Scotland and elsewhere, including Push the Boat Out in Edinburgh.

She founded and directed the award-winning Push the Boat Out, a festival of poetry, spoken word and language, she was Executive Producer of Dandelion, an epic programme of sowing, growing and sharing across Scotland, and was previously the Head of Literature at Creative Scotland.

She is currently chair of Literature Alliance Scotland, and for five years between 2014-2019, was Head of Literature, Languages and Publishing at Creative Scotland, Scotland’s national funding and development agency. In this role, she provided strategic guidance across the sector, and fostered investment in hundreds of organisations and writers. During her time at Creative Scotland, Jenny led in the creation of the sectoral review of Literature and Publishing in Scotland, the Muriel Spark 100 Centenary celebrations in 2018, and Creative Scotland’s first Scots Language Policy. 

In 2016, she was invited by the board of the Edinburgh International Book Festival to lead the organisation on secondment as Acting Director over the winter months of 16/17, winning the Festival a Herald Angel Award for the groundbreaking ‘Outriders’ program. Prior to Creative Scotland, Jenny lived and worked abroad for ten years in Melbourne and Beijing. In Melbourne, Jenny was Associate Director at the Wheeler Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas, and Programme Manager at the Melbourne Writers Festival, developing events and festival programs with a stellar array of Australian and international writers and thinkers. From 2004–2009 she lived in Beijing, where she was inaugural Director of Beijing’s first book festival and literary events program, The Bookworm International Literary Festival, China.

She has participated in festivals all over the world – in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Germany, Australia, Korea, Indonesia, Shetland, and as an intern on PEN World Voices festival, NYC. With a long-term parallel interest in TV and radio, she was researcher on the BBC2 TV series, Writing Scotland, hosted China Radio International’s English language show ‘Voices from Other Lands’, and has been a regular reviewer on Melbourne’s Triple RRR radio station and BBC Radio Scotland. She was on the founding Board of the Stella Prize for Australian Women’s Writing, has judged a range of literary prizes, and has interviewed leading authors such as David Mitchell, Yiyun Li, Jeffrey Eugenides, Kate Grenville, Jennifer Egan, Colson Whitehead, Kathleen Jamie, Andrew O’Hagan, Armando Iannuci and winner of the Nobel Prize for literature, Mo Yan.

Nick Barley, outgoing Edinburgh International Book Festival Director, said: “I am absolutely over the moon that Jenny Niven has been chosen to take over from me as the next Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Jenny has a stellar reputation in the world of literature and culture, both in Scotland and elsewhere. She is open-minded, dynamic and – vitally for this role – a good listener who knows that running a festival is a team game. On top of that, her creativity, connections and enthusiasm will be a huge asset to the Festival.”

Allan Little, Chair of the Edinburgh International Book Festival Board of Directors, said: “We are very excited to welcome Jenny Niven as the new Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Nick leaves incredibly big shoes to fill, but Jenny is no stranger to the Festival or the world of the written word here in Scotland, and indeed further afield, and we look forward to seeing what she brings to this new Book Festival chapter.”

Jenny Niven, the new Edinburgh International Book Festival Director, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed to lead the Edinburgh International Book Festival as its new Director. The Festival has influenced Scottish culture, and shaped the development of book festivals globally, for 40 years. There’s no greater platform to bring together the conversations that we need to have, to celebrate the role of creativity, imagination and story in understanding and reshaping the world around us, and to demonstrate that exploring the world collectively via books and ideas is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences you can have.

“The opportunity to reimagine the Festival in its exciting new home at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, and to lead the organisation at such a pivotal time for Scotland’s cultural life, is an honour. Following the inspirational lead of Nick and his predecessors, I am excited to begin working with the impressive Festival team and board, and the incredible network of partners the Festival has cultivated in Scotland and beyond, to build on the Festival’s stellar reputation and to shape its future.”