SGB Championship: Berwick Bandits 41, Leicester Lions 49; Knockout Cup quarter-final, second-leg: Glasgow Tigers 52, Edinburgh Monarchs 38 (agg: 89-91).

Under-strength Edinburgh Monarchs secured a slot in the semi-final of the Knockout Cup after edging arch rivals Glasgow Tigers by two points over two legs.

And it was Monarchs two guests, one of them a former Tigers star, who kept their cool to secure a 3-3 draw in the final heat to secure a berth in the final four.

Richard Lawson, son of Tigers legend Steve, and former Monarchs rider, Justin Sedgmen, came second and third to Tigers’ No 1 Craig Cook, a former Edinburgh captain, with Tom Brennan trailing home fourth.

That secured an aggregate of 91-89 in Edinburgh’s favour to take them through.

Lawson top scored with ten points and Sedgmen with seven and another guest Dillon Ruml chipping in with a valuable six points from seven rides.

Brennan was best for Glasgow with ten points and Broc Nicol collected nine with Cook disappointing on the night with only six points.

Elsewhere, rising star Leon Flint powered to 13 points and veteran Chris Harris collected 12 but Berwick Bandits skidded to a 49-41 defeat to SGB Championship leaders, Leicester Lions, in the Borders.

Kyle Howarth top scored for the visitors with 13 points while Nick Morris and guest Jason Edwards both collected 11 points in the road win.

PICTURE: Flashback to previous Monarchs v Tigers clash

To coincide with the Edinburgh Art Festival, Stills will present a solo photography exhibition by Ishiuchi Miyako – an influential post-war Japanese photographer whose work has rarely been seen in the UK.

It will be the first time Miyako’s work has been exhibited in Scotland.

The show which runs from 28 July to 8 October 2022 will consist of a selection of work from some of her most celebrated series including, Mother’s, the series with which she represented Japan at the Venice Biennale in 2005, work commissioned by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in 2007 – to capture everyday objects which had belonged to victims of the atomic bomb – and photographs from the series Frida, made at The Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City where Miyako photographed Kahlo’s garments such as corsets, cosmetics and shoes.

The artist will be in Edinburgh for a rare visit to the UK in late July.

More recently, Miyako’s work has continued to record material traces of the passage of time, turning her lens away from locations towards the bodies and personal belongings of people. Her series Mother’s (2000-05), in which she documented her mother’s possessions as a means of coming to terms with their relationship and her mother’s death, was selected to represent Japan at the 2005 Venice Biennale. This led to a publisher inviting Miyako to capture the everyday objects which had belonged to victims of the atomic bomb and are held in the collection of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The Frida Kahlo Museum later commissioned Miyako to photograph Kahlo’s objects at the Blue House in Mexico City (Frida, 2012).

Miyako’s work has been exhibited and collected by numerous prestigious collections and institutions around the world. Exhibitions of her work have been held at J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles (2015) and the Yokohama Museum of Art, Japan (2017). She was the recipient of the 2014 Hasselblad Award.

Berwick Bandits face Leicester in both Championship and National Development League (NDL) in a double-header at Shielfield Park (Saturday, 6.30pm).
Bandits face the SGB Championship leaders with rider replacement in operation for Jye Etheridge whilst Lee Complin guests for Ty Proctor.
Lions bring in Jason Edwards at Reserve with Anders Rowe having left the club and they continue with rider replacement for Connor Mountain whose partner is giving birth.
Bandits boss Gary Flint said: “We are determined to get ourselves back into the battle for a play-off spot and get points on the board – home and away.”
Leicester manager Stewart Dickson (pictured) said: “June is a very busy month for us and Berwick is never an easy place to go. They’ve lost a couple of matches so far this season at home already and I put that down to Jye Etheridge being missing because he’s been scoring big points.
“He’s missing again on Saturday so there is a chance for us to get something there, but it won’t be easy.”
In the NDL, Berwick are at full-strength and lead the table, whilst second-placed Leicester bring in Kyran Lyden at Reserve as Kai Ward was injured in a grass track crash last weekend.
Lion Cubs boss Dave Howard said: “This weekend will be the Cubs’ biggest challenge of the season so far. Berwick have a strong and solid team from one to seven, but we will also be looking to continue our really positive start to the season.”

What the Fork Monarchs defeated Glasgow 53-37 in the first-leg of the Knockout Cup quarter-final at Armadale and the sides meet again in the West of Scotland on Saturday (7pm).

Glasgow won by 12 points on their previous visit to Armadale but Monarchs bosses felt it was a fully-merited result with the whole team contributing.

The visitors only managed three race winners – two to Craig Cook – and inspirational skipper Sam Masters led the way for the home side, scoring a full maximum, with Josh Pickering (pictured by Jack Cupido) only beaten once.

Kye Thomson had his best night of the season and, after his customary slow start, Paco Castagna collected eight points from his final three rides. Guest Dillon Ruml, standing in for James Sarjeant, also did well with seven points.

Tigers’ team boss Cami Brown praised Monarchs’ performance and Edinburgh’s team manager Alex Harkess said: “That was a determined performance. There were some really tough first corners out there tonight and there were also some excellent overtakes, especially by Josh Pickering and our guest Dillon Ruml.”

Edinburgh Monarchs (53): Sam Masters 15+0, Lasse Fredriksen 0+0, Kye Thomson 9+1, Paco Castagna 8+0, Josh Pickering 12+2, Jacob Hook 2+0, Dillon Ruml 7+1, Gregor Millar 0+0

Glasgow Tigers (37): Craig Cook 8+0, Connor Bailey 5+0, Ulrich Ostergaard 7+1, Benjamin Basso 6+2, Tom Brennan 6+1, Danyon Hume 2+0, Broc Nicol 3+1

Two Rangers substitutes scored goals which led to Hearts missing out on Scottish Cup glory at Hampden last month. It was ironic, since in spite of a successful season, it hammered home just how far the Jambos have to go if they want to close the gap with Scotland’s two top teams.

Hearts huffed and puffed for the first 45 minutes and succeeded in nullifying the Europa League finalists and had Ellis Simms buried the golden opportunity that fell his way after just ten minutes, then the outcome might have been a completely different one. 

In the end, Ryan Jack and Scott Wright came off the bench to see Rangers end an emotional week on a high. The Scottish pair, along with fellow outfield substitutes Glen Kamara and Fashion Sakala highlight the quality that the Old Firm sides have at their disposal. 

It was the same story when Hearts visited Celtic Park last month. The men in maroon were playing well until Celtic brought on Georgios Giakoumakis, Liel Abada, Reo Hatate, Tom Rogic and James Forrest, who took the game away from the visitors. 

This is now the challenge that Hearts manager Robbie Neilson has to deal with this summer. With Hearts’ third-place finish guaranteeing group-stage European football of some form until December, Hearts must begin next season with a bigger squad to help cope with the hectic Thursday-Sunday fixture schedule. 

Fortunately, for achieving that third-place finish they will receive a substantial financial reward and with any luck, former Hearts man, Aaron Hickey will finalise a move away from Bologna for roughly £15-20 million pounds, of which, Hearts are entitled to a sell on clause which is reported to be at least 10%. 

The excellent recruitment Hearts have made in the last two summer windows means that they will be recruiting from a position of strength and with the money earned from their efforts this season, sporting director Joe Savage and manager Robbie Neilson will be backing themselves to find the right additions. 

John Souttar pulled on the maroon jersey for the last time at Hampden and was arguably Hearts’ best player on the day, despite the external noise about him featuring in a match against his future employers. 

Ball-playing centre backs are very difficult to find in the modern-day era, which is why Souttar will be very difficult for Hearts to replace and at this moment in time Peter Haring is yet to agree on a new contract which would keep him at Tynecastle. 

Despite all that, Hearts have had a magnificent season and although they failed to cap it off with some silverware, the transformation at the club in the last twelve months shows that they are on the right track. 

Musselburgh Racecourse is rolling out the barrel for The Queen’s Jubilee with a packed programme of events and top quality racing on Sunday. (5 June).

The £200,000 Sky Bet Sunday Series Race Day has quality entries from across the UK in a seven race fixture, and for families looking to get into the Royal spirit of the occasion an eventful afternoon is in store with the Jubilee Family Fair.

Highlight of the day will be the “Corgi Derby”, a special corgi race featuring local canine Paddy, from Port Seton, a distant relative of one of Her Majesty’s favourite dogs (1.45pm).

Louise Marshall, known as “Scotland’s National Piper” and Resident Piper on ITV’s Good Morning show, will pay homage to the Queen’s well known love of Highland Games and Scottish musical tradition, and will play throughout the race day.

Fairground rides include a Ferris Wheel which will give racegoers thrills and an eagle’s eye view over the racecourse, while the Herald Trumpets will add a regal feel to the proceedings, and there will be a stilt walker from Urban Circus.

The princesses Anna and Elsa from the hit Disney movie Frozen will pose for selfies with children during a course walk-about and there will be a prize for the youngster who comes dressed as the best Prince and Princess.

Other attractions include a 360 degrees photobooth, face painting, and for those looking to dance away the afternoon FunkWagen will get the Royal party started from 1.30pm and will be playing until an hour after the last race which is at 6.45pm.

All the attractions are free and children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Racegoers booking their ticket before midnight on 4 June can enjoy a £5 discount on the race day admission price of £30.

Concession tickets are available at the gate on Sunday priced £15 per person. Valid concession I.D. must be shown and the ticket can also be used to receive 10% off in the cafe at S.Luca’s Musselburgh branch.

Musselburgh Racecourse marketing manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “There is a lot of excitement about the Corgi Derby, which we believe to be the first of its kind in the UK and that will set the tone for what is sure to be a brilliant Jubilee Fair.

“The weather is forecast to be sunny and warm and what could be a better way to mark the Queen’s Jubilee and her huge love of horseracing by coming to Musselburgh for a packed day of fantastic racing, fun and festivities?”

Gates open on Sunday a 1.30pm and the first race is off at 3.45pm. For more information and to book tickets please visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

BT have applied for planning permission to remove the telephone kiosk at the foot of Dundas Street, asking the planners to allow them to replace it with one of their street hubs.

Actually the planning application 22/02528/FUL asks for permission to remove two phone boxes, but that would seem to be an error as we only found one.

A street hub is described in the accompanying leaflet as a “free to use accessible community asset”. It is an upright advertising structure which uses up much less pavement space than a phone box and gives access to free phone calls, WiFi and 999 calls as well as showing maps of the area and way finding boards. It also includes environmental sensors which measure air quality noise, and pedestrian,bike and vehicle traffic.

As well as all this it allows the council 876 hours of free advertising each year and charities can be reached through the tablet which is integrated at one metre high so that it is accessible. With a hearing induction loop and high contrast large type labels it is designed to be accessible for those who are hearing or sight impaired. There is room for a community notice board promoting events and activities and other groups such as Business Improvement Districts and Chambers of Commerce get discounted advertising rates. Business rates may be payable to the council for the structure.

Earlier this week Cllr Ross McKenzie who represents Sighthill/Gorgie explained to the Local Democracy Reporting Service that BT would not remove the dilapidated phone boxes on Dalry Road as they continue to make advertising revenue from them, despite their unsightly condition.

Local Democracy Reporter, Donald Turvill, wrote that “city planners have ruled the renewable energy-powered, 75-inch street displays would be an “unacceptable and unnecessary intrusion into the streetscape” which would result in “advertisement clutter”.

“Last month the council refused plans for the removal of 15 phone boxes and subsequent installation of seven Street Hubs across Edinburgh including the ones flagged by Cllr McKenzie on Dalry Road. Unsuccessful applications lodged by BT also related to dilapidated call boxes on Morrison Street, Nicolson Street, Dalkeith Road and Crichton Street.

“A BT spokesperson said: “We are progressing plans with Edinburgh City Council to remove around 50 payphones across the city and replace them with around 26 new BT Street Hubs which will provide local people with free Wi-Fi, free calls, free mobile charging, allow environmental monitoring and provide free digital advertising space for the council and local businesses.

“We continue to discuss our plans with the council and we hope that Edinburgh will join other cities, such as Glasgow and Birmingham, where our new Street Hubs have been welcomed by local communities and small businesses.”

So it could be unlikely that these two boxes will be removed in favour of the 21st century Street Hub unless the planners change their view.

I met up with the council leader, Cllr Cammy Day, at a Jubilee event on Wednesday and we recorded the podcast episode below.

This will give you a flavour of his first week in the new role – and how he hopes matters will unfold at the City Chambers in the next five years.

There is a transcript of the conversation below.

Cllr Day said: “It’s hard work. It’s a real challenge. It’s exciting. You know, I’m proud and privileged to be the leader, in the city that I live in and have all my life. But yes, it’s hard work, it’s going to be a challenge to get decisions through the council. But I think me and my administration are keen to work with all parties.

“And I genuinely mean that that – there’s no majority of any grouping in the council. So we’ll work proactively with all the groups and try and get the best we can for the city, In some ways we have to put politics aside to get the best for the city. We will have to do that to get decisions through the council. So whilst we have a manifesto we want to deliver, we accept there’ll be compromises in some areas to make sure we can get the best for the city.”

I observed that Labour are being criticised by some commentators saying the party will always have to look to the Tories and the Lib Dems for assistance in getting any policies passed and asked Cllr Day if he agreed with that. He denied that Labour would continually go to the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives for their support.

He replied: “Never – I mean, for me, we’ll be working cross party. I’ll be meeting with the group leaders quite soon to put our pitch across, about how we would want to work with the group leaders.

“And the same will be happening with my Transport Convener, with my Education Convener etc etc. They’ll all be looking to have a cross party consensus on the way forward, That’s not going to happen all the time, we accept that. But I suppose our stall will be set out that we want to work cross party with whoever will support us to get the best we can. And given that the Labour group, the SNP, the Greens and Lib Dems manifestos are probably more aligned, these will be the parties that we go to.

“But I’m not going to shut out the Tories, because there’ll be some parts of their manifesto that we might support or they might support ours. So it’s a genuine approach to say, let’s get as many of the parties as we can in the council. And if some parties are not happy, don’t want to play that game, then that will be their decision, and we’ll work with other parties who are prepared to be a bit more progressive and put differences aside and get on with running the city – this capital city the best we can.”

I asked for a rundown of Cllr Day’s first week as leader of a minority coalition of just 13 councillors.

He replied:”So you know, I’d like to argue that it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. I’ve got 13 amazing councillors, a number of them with senior roles, who will lead that portfolio for the next five years, hopefully. And as I said, work across the, across the political bounds to try and get the best.

“Some are very new, but very ambitious and very keen. And of course, they’ll do a great job. And then along the way, they might make some mistakes, and they’ll learn and do better next time. So we accept that. We’re not coming in to say we’ll be perfect. I think the Labour group’s got a long standing tradition in the chamber that they’re progressive, they will work with parties and will do what they can to be the best for the city.

“So on Thursday morning I was appointed to this role and the Lord Provost as well from the LibDem group. It was exciting because I think you know, there was there was some interest in what was being discussed behind the scenes.

“Genuinely until we sat down we probably weren’t entirely sure it was going to go through. So yeah, I am pleased with it. And then since then, it’s been a roller coaster for me in my new role as the council leader. And every day has been genuinely different and not a week into it yet. But it’s been an exciting – I speak today here at the my first official outing as the leader to the Jubilee party at Drylaw Rainbow Club. And it’s exciting to be here today. One of my many things I’ve done in the last five days or so.

“On Friday morning I was at COSLA leaders’ meeting standing up for the city arguing for more resources for Edinburgh, for a better paydeal for our workers, for the Tourist Tax to come in quicker and a better deal from the government to support the Ukrainian community here in Edinburgh.

“On Saturday. I went up the hills to clear my head and had a day out of council things but chased up some emails.

“On Sunday I was at the Kirking of the Council with some of my colleagues representing the city.

“There was a good representation across most, if not all the parties. So I hope that it’s a start about how we will work in the future. Monday, I called the first meeting with all the executive directors and leadership team and the key conveners to have a discussion about how we’ll work together, how we go forward.

“Yesterday, I spent my day at the refugee hub, talking to Ukrainian people and our officers who are supporting people who have come come through the system to get relocated into Edinburgh or into Scotland in some cases. And today, here I am at the Jubilee party at Drylaw Rainbow Club. And later on today, I’ll be down to Lothian Buses to reassure them of our commitment to keep them in public ownership. And then more events tomorrow and Friday.

“Hopefully, I’ll have Saturday off, in fact, no – I have to go to HMS Albion on Saturday morning to join the Captain to have some lunch – along with some other people I’m sure.

“So yes a full on week, one week into it, and it’s tiring, but you know, we’re excited to bring something new and I hope a different working relationship to the parties across the chamber.”

Work began a month ago today in Roseburn Park on the new community café which is being created from the old toilet block there.

The Friends of Roseburn Park (FoRP)are reporting on progress every few days on their website where they say that the internal walls have now been demolished to make way for the new facilities.

This project has been a decade in the making and is designed to attract more visitors to the park just next to Murrayfield Stadium along with the Armoury mural created three years ago.

The council contributed £66,000 to the project which supplemented the Friends ‘buy a brick’ campaign along with other grants.

The derelict building was built in 1903 and designed by the city architect, Robert Morham as a pavilion. It has been closed since 1982 and with the roof about to collapse this is a just in time refurbishment.

The FoRP as a voluntary group have pushed the project forward with assistance from architectural designer Craig Proudfoot of One Foot Square, who will also be project manager, and technical input from Paul Harding.

Jim McDonaugh said ”At last! This is exactly what our community and park visitors have been waiting for! The refurbished building will be so better than the present eyesore – FoRP are returning the exterior to the way it would have looked when it was first built, 116 years ago- and the interior into a warm and inviting café. Visitors will have somewhere to go for a hot drink and a snack – maybe even a light meal- when the work is complete.

“It has not been a straight forward project, but working with experienced café managers FoRP have come up with a design that gives 30 square metres of floor space as well as a spacious public toilet, kitchen and storage.”

Pete Gregson said “It’s been a rollercoaster- on so many occasions I thought we had taken on the impossible; I can’t believe there will still be something to show to my kids in the park that will be there long after I am gone.”

Former Lord Provost and Ward Councillor Frank Ross said: “Converting the old toilet block into a café for the whole community to enjoy is a great idea. It will help to support local jobs and volunteering opportunities, while providing a warm and accessible space for local people to meet up. 

“The conversion, which will include an accessible toilet,  has the backing of local residents and I was delighted to secure the Council funding for the FoRP to allow it to proceed.

“Additionally, income from the café will help to support other projects led by the Friends of Roseburn Park to improve the overall amenity and quality of the Park.”

Sir Angus Grossart, CBE, Chairman of Noble Grossart has died aged 85.

A long time resident of the New Town, we photographed him most recently at the Sir Walter Scott Pageant in autumn 2021.

The two knights of the realm shared a similar career path since both went to the Bar to become Scottish advocates, and both loved the capital. Others have recounted his successful route to becoming the man who had his own bank, but we turned to people who knew him well to get a sense of who Angus Grossart was.

Sir Tom Farmer told The Edinburgh Reporter that he first met Sir Angus in the airport car park in 1968.

He recounted: “It was midnight. I had just come off the last flight from London, and heard someone trying to start a car, but the battery was flat. I went over to see if I could help, and offered him a lift into town. I asked for his car keys and said I would get his car fixed and delivered to him the next day. He was impressed that I sold him a battery for his car – even that late at night.

“We developed a friendship from then on, and he became someone who I could speak to and ask for advice. He had a tremendous impact on Scotland in many ways including in the fields of arts and culture. He has made his mark here and will be impossible to follow. It was largely as a result of our friendship that I became involved with the art galleries. He has left a great legacy and many people will not know that some things only happened because of Angus. The best tribute to him will be for others to carry on doing good things.”

Author Alexander McCall Smith remembered him fondly and said: “Angus was a towering presence in Edinburgh. He made a major contribution to the arts and always did that in a modest and unassuming way.

“I shall remember him for his kindly manner, for the twinkle in his eye, and for the quiet way in which he did the things he did. Sometimes you had to listen very hard to catch his words, but it was always worthwhile. He brought light and fun to Edinburgh and all Scotland. He leaves behind him a great and inspiring legacy.”

Sir Angus backed the recent Sir Walter Scott Pageant which took place last autumn.

The then Rt Hon Lord Provost, Frank Ross said: “Sir Angus was very much an unsung hero of Edinburgh and Scottish society. In addition to his business interests his support for the cultural and civic elements of the capital was immense.

“A fitting tribute for his work was the Sir Walter Scott 250th anniversary event which Sir Angus was the driving force behind. Without doubt the most significant civic procession Edinburgh has seen for several generations.”

Ben Thomson, Chairman of Inverleith Capital and former Chairman of National Galleries of Scotland, said: “Angus was a colossus in the Edinburgh financial community and his name will be written in stone for his contribution to Scottish business and culture.”

Rory Knight Bruce, an author and journalist who considered Sir Angus a “kind and good friend” portrayed Dandie Dinmont in the pageant at the personal request of Sir Angus.

Knight Bruce said: “Having known Sir Angus and his wife Gay for more than forty years of good friendship, it was the greatest privilege to be invited to take part in Angus’s wonderful commemorative service at St Giles Cathedral to honour Sir Walter Scott last October.

“Between us we hatched that I should come dressed as Scott’s Dandie Dinmont (the character of the Border farmer in ‘Guy Mannering’ who kept Dandie Dinmont terriers). We then managed to get forty-seven Dandies and their owners into the cathedral, and to process them afterwards down The Mound to The Scott Monument with not a cocked leg or snarl in sight. If the poet Philip Larkin once wrote that there are in any man’s life only twelve good days, this was truly one of mine.

“The day before, by chance, I was in the New Club having lunch and so was Angus. After our respective lunching partners had departed, we sat together on the balcony alone looking out over towards the castle, a misty haar wreathing the battlements. It was then he told me, which I did not know, that he had been a junior counsel in the celebrated Argyll v Argyll divorce case. Newspaper photographs at the time show him walking into court. “I wonder who will play me in the forthcoming television drama of the case,” he asked. Sadly he did not make the cut.

“On another occasion last summer, I sat with Angus and Gay in their sun filled glorious New Town garden. When I pointed out that my wife was from Mull and the 1943 Pressburger film ‘I Know Where I’m Going’ was partly filmed at her home, Angus struck up. He sang to a word and note the song from the film, taking the heroine’s singing part with éclat.  

“There is no doubt that Angus strode Scotland like a quietly spoken Colossus, be it in banking, philanthropy, culture, public positions and the arts. In private I never enjoyed better conversation sprinkled with the occasional mischievous enquiry. Angus trusted people he respected and we in turn respected him. “Would you care for a cheeky red or white,” he would say to me. What would follow was warmth, wisdom, sagacity, intelligence, advocacy, friendship, interest in all matters of world affairs and people high and low (particularly the young or younger) and a love of Gay and great pride in their daughter Flure. “We are all Jock Tamson’s bairns,” Angus was fond of saying.

“That was also his genius: To make you feel equal to him as a man nothing short of a genius himself. Our weakness was, for a moment, to believe him.”

Sir Angus Grossart Born 6 April 1937. Died 13 May 2022.

Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) have unveiled a new-look women’s league structure on Friday ahead of the 2022/23 season..

With the SWPL 1 and 2 being administered by the Scottish Professional Football League from next season, SWF’s top tier will become the Championship, a competitive national league made up of eight teams, the membership of which is determined by specific criteria, such as commitments to youth pathways and player wellbeing.

Under that, a national League One will be made up of 14 teams.

There will be no relegation from the Championship after the first season, with two teams who have met minimum requirements promoted from league one to create a Championship League of ten criteria-compliant teams.

The new criteria will require clubs to provide sanitary products at games and work to support the wellbeing of players.

A meeting of the new league structure will take place on 4 July.

SWF CEO Aileen Campbell said: “Women’s football in Scotland is growing and reaching every part of the country.

“Our new Championship will represent an exciting and competitive contest among eight teams from right across Scotland, culminating in a prestigious trophy in its own right. I’m delighted that participating clubs have shown a commitment to the wellbeing of their players – things like ensuring sanitary products are available at training facilities – and providing player pathways, to give girls opportunities to play at a grassroots level.

“League One will also be a fiercely competitive league, with the prize of two places in the Championship up for grabs. As professionalism grows at the top of the game we need to ensure a route is there for every woman in the country to have the opportunity to participate and reach the top, and I’m confident the new structure will showcase the best our clubs have to offer.”

The new SWF Championship participating clubs: Ayr United, Dryburgh Athletic Women, Hutchison Vale WFC, Inverness Caledonian Thistle WFC, Livingston WFC, Morton FC Women, Rossvale FC Women and Renfrew Ladies FC

The new SWF League One participating clubs: Airdrie Ladies FC, Bishopton FC Ladies, BSC Glasgow Women, Buchan Ladies FC, Dundee City West WFC, Edinburgh Caledonia FC, Edinburgh City Women, Falkirk FC Women, Giffnock SC, Grampian Ladies FC, Gleniffer Thistle Ladies, St Mirren Women, Stenhousemuir Women FC and Westdyke Ladies FC.

The University of Edinburgh has inducted three leading female figures from the worlds of hockey, hill and trail running, and rugby officiating into their Sports Hall of Fame.

Edinburgh alumni Sarah Robertson, Angela Mudge and Hollie Davidson have been honoured for their success at the highest level of their sport.

Scotland’s most decorated hockey player, Sarah Robertson, has achieved success at club and international level, including medal glory at the Olympics. She has been selected as captain for the Scottish Women’s Hockey Team at this year’s 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

Despite coming late to mountain racing, and a physical disability in childhood, Angela Mudge has won Scottish, British and World Champion titles in hill and trail running. She works for Scottish Athletics to help develop the sport at a national level.

Hollie Davidson made headlines when she became Scottish Rugby’s first full-time female professional referee in 2017. Since then she has officiated at the highest level of the game including the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games and United Rugby Championship and will be the first female official to referee a men’s Six Nations team in a test match with the Portugal v Italy game on 25 June.

The Hall of Fame inductees were welcomed by the University’s community of leading student sports stars during last night’s (Thursday 2 June) Blues and Colours Awards Dinner – Edinburgh’s annual celebration of sporting excellence.

Jim Aitken MBE, Director of Sport and Exercise at University of Edinburgh said: “It’s an honour to welcome these three inspiring women into our Sports Hall of Fame. Each has contributed immeasurably in their chosen sport and demonstrate the University’s place as a leading destination for gifted students wanting to pursue their academic and sporting ambitions.”

Launched in 2008 to honour and celebrate Edinburgh’s distinguished sports people, Edinburgh’s Hall of Fame now boasts 44 world-class athletes across 20 sports.

Previous inductees include six-time Olympic gold medal-winning cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, Olympic gold medallist rower Dame Katherine Grainger, and Olympic 400 metre running champion Eric Liddell.

The University’s Performance Programme has supported many of Edinburgh’s elite athletes. The programme provides funding, tailored fitness conditioning and sports medicine care, access to top class competition and training facilities, alongside advice and flexible study options to help students succeed on the world sporting stage.

“The occasion of the Platinum Jubilee is not just about an institution. It is, above all, about the life and service of an extraordinary woman.”   Nicola Sturgeon chose her words carefully. 

The words “woman (not person), “life and service” are placed “above” the institution.  Because in Scotland, the monarchy has only 45 per cent support, according to the latest opinion poll (by the think-tank British Future).  It’s another dividing line between Scotland and England, where the monarchy enjoys over 60 per cent support.

It won’t, of course, stop us celebrating the Jubilee. There are public events, street parties, afternoon teas, a service of thanksgiving in Glasgow Cathedral and the lighting of beacons. The highest one of the 2,000 or so across Britain on Thursday night was on Ben Nevis.    

In the British Future poll, 48 per cent of Scots said they were not interested in the Jubilee. 36 per cent said when the Queen dies, it would be suitable time to become a republic with an elected president, as happens in Ireland.  So Nicola Sturgeon is treading a careful line here, as she is over independence, where, interestingly, the country is almost equally divided. 

There is also a clear division of opinion between the young and the old. The young tend to favour independence and a republic and the old want to keep things are they are. For the moment, the official SNP policy is to keep the House of Windsor as monarchs in an independent Scotland.   

But the Jubilee itself is more than about the life and service of an extraordinary woman. It’s a time to reflect upon our times. What sort of country we have been in the last 70 years and the contrast between that and what we would like to be, now and in the future.  Do we want to be more equal, more green, more tolerant? Those are tough questions, when it comes down to it. 

Just take the examples we faced this week – the railway dispute, the government’s spending plans and the football match against Ukraine.

Should train drivers be offered a pay rise of more than 4.2 per cent? That’s the question facing the Scot Rail management and the government. The drivers are already paid a salary of £50,000 a year. But there’s a chronic shortage of them because there has not been enough recruiting done over the last few years. Members of the union Aslef have been refusing to work overtime which has forced Scot Rail to cut its services by a third. So should Scot Rail increase its fares to pay the drivers more? Or should the government increase its subsidy, which would set a precedent for higher pay settlements across the whole public sector?  There are questions of fairness and of commitment to a greener economy mixed up in the answer.

The same is true of the finance secretary’s spending plans for the next four years. Kate Forbes told parliament she was “re-shaping and re-focusing” government spending.  Reshaping, apparently, means cutting public sector jobs back to pre-pandemic levels. That would see a fall of 30,000 out of the total of 440,000.  Re-focusing means increased spending on health and care services and welfare benefits.  But to balance the budget, there have to be  cuts to other departments of around 8 per cent in real terms –  local councils, police and the courts, higher education, business promotion and tourism.

As for the football, the game against Ukraine on Wednesday evening was a test of our national spirit.There were those who argued Scotland should give Ukraine a free pass towards qualification for the World Cup.  But as it was, the Ukrainians were given a warm welcome to Hampden with the uneasy compromise of “best wishes – except for the 90 minutes of the game”.

In the end, Ukraine were the better team, winning 3 – 1, even though half the team had not played a competitive game since the Russian invasion in February. That leaves Scotland out of the World Cup. But we are as well not going to Qatar anyway, in my view. It has a shocking human rights record and the skulduggery that surrounded the way it won the competition to stage the event gives monarchy a bad name.

At least our monarchy is “constitutional”, tamed by parliament, the rule of law and public opinion. Whatever you think of the institution, Queen Elizabeth herself has accompanied us through the ups and downs of the last 70 years with grace and earnest service. We should thank her for that, quietly, or with the razzmatazz of this weekend. 

Mackays Hotel in Wick is on the market for sale. The hotel has been owned and operated by the same family, the Lamonts, for nearly seventy years.

The property is situated on Ebenezer Place in Wick, the world’s shortest street at just six feet, nine inches long and has been a cornerstone of Caithness community life for six decades. Now the award-winning destination is looking for a new owner as third generation owner, Murray Lamont, and his wife, Ellie, have put it up for sale.

Situated on the North Coast 500 route, Mackays has 30 en-suite modern bedrooms, plus exclusive event space for weddings, corporate events, meetings, private functions and other special occasions. Six self-catering apartments are also included in the sale, just next door to the hotel in a separate residential block.

Additionally, the business, which employs around 30 staff, has an established food and drink brand in Mackays Hotel No 1 Bistro, located by the river Wick and Wick harbour. Celebrating and supporting the best local and seasonal Highland food and drink, the menu showcases Mey Selections beef and lamb, Caithness Smokehouse and Scrabster Seafoods. 

Since taking on the management of Mackays Hotel in 1983, followed by full ownership in the 1990s, Murray and Ellie have collected numerous accolades for the Hotel, including ‘Caithness Business of the Year’ in the Highland Business Awards 2016, overall winner of the ‘Developing the Young Workforce’ category at the Highland Business Awards 2017, an AA Rosette for No.1 Bistro at Mackays Hotel in 2014, and a Gold Tourism Award as part of The Green Tourism Business Scheme. 

This unique sale of a truly iconic Highlands Hotel also presents buyers with the opportunity to develop the hotel’s grain store, which previously had planning permission for a new three-story extension with the potential to add further bedrooms. 

Mackays Hotel is being marketed by specialist commercial property agents, Drysdale & Co, in three lots. The three lots include the 30-bedroom Mackays Hotel, six self-catering apartments (supplementary letting accommodation) and a vacant Church building for separate negotiation.

Murray Lamont said: “Our family is incredibly proud to have been the caretakers for our family-run hotel for 67 years. During that time Mackays Hotel has become an integral part of local community life here in Caithness. The hotel has gone from strength to strength, winning a number of industry awards and accolades and welcoming over 50,000 global visitors to the north Highlands and famous North Coast 500 each year.”

“We’ve always prided ourselves on our warm Highland welcome to guests from across the world every single year and have some very happy memories from our time as owners of the hotel since the 1990s. We’d like to thank all our guests, staff, suppliers, local community and friends for their continued loyal support over the decades.”

“We now feel the time is right to hand over the reins of Mackays Hotel to new owners, presenting them with a chance to really put their own stamp onto this amazing business which has scope yet to achieve even more.”

More information about Mackays Hotel in Wick, visit www.mackayshotel.co.uk

Potential purchasers should contact Stuart Drysdale at Drysdale & Co on 07851 317 186 or email stuart@drysdaleandcompany.co.uk

Hazel and John Boath were decorating their garden at Salvesen Terrace when we met them.

They were preparing to celebrate HM the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in their garden of the house where they have lived for 30 years.

Hazel is a strong royalist. John says he respects the Queen but he is not so bothered about royalty. John explained that he was ten years old at the time of The Coronation and he has a shield and flags from 1953.

A former lighthouse keeper, one of the flags also has a lighthouse on it – it came from Bell’s Rock Lighthouse.

The Salvesen houses in Muirhouse were built for retired army personnel and lighthouse keepers, on land gifted by Christian Salvesen the Scottish whaling and shipping company which has a long history associated with Edinburgh with offices in Bernard Street in Leith.

The following article is submitted by former councillor Ashley Graczyk.

Ms Graczyk was first elected in 2017 in Sighthill/Gorgie as a Conservative councillor, but resigned from the party and continued until the recent elections as an independent. While she stood at the elections her bid to become an independent councillor was not successful – there are indeed no independent councillors in Edinburgh.

Here she offers her views on the election and the new council administration:

“Edinburgh Labour now has control of the City of Edinburgh Council following its election as a minority administration, thanks to support from Tories and Liberal Democrats. This minority takeover is the worst example of self-interested, power-hungry local politics, spiting the intentions of voters across Edinburgh.

“The people of Edinburgh voted collectively for a progressive left alliance of SNP, Labour and the Greens. The previous Council administration in 2017-2022 was SNP/Labour. In the recent May 2022 local elections, the people of Edinburgh once again gave the SNP the biggest mandate. The Conservative Party, by contrast, received their worst ever result and halved their number of elected councillors. They were roundly rejected by the electors, while the Lib Dems proportionately increased their number of votes. 

“Edinburgh Labour is seeking to run The City of Edinburgh Council with a group of just 13 out of 63 Councillors (two of whom abstained on the associated vote, and half of whom have zero experience). This is unfair on the electorate and utterly unrepresentative of the electoral outcome.

“Many people voted Labour to secure a progressive left alliance to keep the Tories out of power. It is an insult to these voters that Labour representatives have offered Conservative Councillors key positions in the administration. Labour choosing to align with the Tories to keep a progressive centre-left alliance out of power is party politics at its worst and most cynical. 

“The Labour councillors involved have sold their soul to the Tories for a minority power share that Edinburgh did not vote for. They will now have to rely on right wing Tories for Every. Single. Vote. They have also disfranchised most of their own rank and file party members and affiliated trade unionists, who all understandably voted against any deals with the Tories.

“Only two recently-elected Labour Councillors continue to honour traditional socialist Labour values: Cllr Ross McKenzie and Cllr Katrina Faccenda. Both abstained from voting in the administration arrangement vote at the relevant Council meeting, choosing to put their own members, unions, Labour values and their ward first, before a power-hungry Labour clique who only care about their own self-interest at the expense of the people they claim to represent. 

“Just as Labour MSP Mercedes Villalba rightly said, “No Labour worth the name would ever put the Tories in power.” Edinburgh Labour members are seeking power without principles; sacrificing a progressive left alliance to align with the Tories; conceding key decision-making positions to the Tories and Lib Dems. 

“There is nothing progressive or socialist about putting the Tories into power. Edinburgh Labour will pay the price, both with disenchanted Edinburgh voters and with every single compromised Council vote.”

Andrew Morrison, founder of Scotland’s largest bid and tender specialist AM Bid, has been named Global Thought Leader of the Year by the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP).

The inaugural award, which was presented at the association’s annual conference in Dallas, Texas, recognises individuals who push the bid and proposal industry forward through innovation and educational contributions.
Andrew beat off stiff competition from around the world to land the prestigious accolade, the first time the Edinburgh-based company has won global recognition since forming in 2014.
“It’s an incredibly proud feeling to pick up this award, particularly as it has been selected by professional peers from around the world,” said Andrew, a former IoD Scotland director of the year.

“It’s the first time we have been recognised on the global stage and I’d like to express my gratitude to the judging panel. It’s an achievement I will treasure and provides a real boost for the business as we continue our scaling journey.”
Embracing social media, particularly the professional networking platform LinkedIn, in a bid to cope with the challenges of Covid, struck a chord with the judges, as did Andrew’s role in developing Ultimate Tender Coach, the UK’s first digital bid training programme aimed at winning SMEs more public sector contracts.
“I was the first bid professional in the world to be given a LinkedIn Live broadcasting licence to talk about bidding,” said Andrew.
“In the early stages of the pandemic I decided that video was the best way forward with in-person conferences and events off the agenda and since July 2020 I have delivered more than 100 live broadcasts on LinkedIn which have been seen by over 132,000 viewers.
“I find people are initially more interested in what I know rather than what I do. Our 80% bid win rate is independently audited every quarter and I was happy to share some of the secrets, so to speak, of that success, with the business community.
“Ultimate Tender Coach was also born out of the pandemic. The UK public sector tenders out £290bn worth of work a year. In Scotland alone, there is more than £12bn worth of work out to tender so there are a lot of opportunities for SMEs to get a share of that market.
“We wanted to develop something to give them a better chance of competing with the larger organisations. It’s great these innovations have been recognised by APMP as helping drive the industry forward.”
Andrew added: “I think there will be also recruitment and retention benefits going forward for us.
“People, at all stages of their career, want to work for an organisation that is going to develop them and I’m proud of our track record on that front to date. Colleagues join AM Bid with an expectation that they are going to get great career development and I see that being a strength of the firm going forward.”

Residents at Edinburgh home to have bumper weekend of celebrations.

An Edinburgh care home is celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with a jam-packed events calendar – including a visit from a local DJ and themed cocktails.

To mark the occasion, residents at Cramond Residence will be treated to a themed party with family, friends and members of the community invited to a grand garden celebration.

A DJ and singer will take to the stage throughout the afternoon, with food and drink stalls, themed cocktails, home-baked delicacies and weather permitting, a garden picnic.

In the lead up to the main event, residents have been making Union Jack hand held flags and will enjoy a Jubilee themed quiz coordinated by the home’s dedicated Lifestyle Coordinators. Residents will also be invited to help decorate the home with banners and bunting ahead of the event.

Client Liaison Manager and registered nurse at the 74-bedroom home, Christian Daraio, said: “The majority of our residents can remember exactly where they were when the Queen was coronated 70 years ago in 1953.

“It’ll be a special memory for not just out residents but staff and the wider community which is why we wanted to mark it properly – what better way to raise a toast to the Queen than with a party?

“We strive to make sure that our calendar of activities provides something for everyone, giving our residents endless possibilities to enjoy all the things they want to do on their own terms.”

The celebrations will coincide the launch of Cramond Residence’s Garden room – an area that will allow residents to spend time in the fresh air and surrounding nature whilst also socialising with others.

Christian added: “The garden room will be a great addition to the home’s existing high-end facilities and can be enjoyed by our residents for the first time as part of the celebrations this weekend. Fingers crossed the sun will be shining!”

A tombola and raffle will also take place on the day to raise funds for CHAS and Downs Syndrome Scotland.

Alison Newton, Operations Manager at Cramond Residence, said: “The Jubilee party will consist of a number of family-friendly activities, including face painting, a ‘pin the jewel on the crown’ and even a DJ. On arrival, kids will also receive a Jubilee goody bag.

“We have staff volunteering to come in and help on the day – even though they should be on their days-off – which we’re really grateful for!

“It’s shaping up to be a really great event and we’re delighted to be able to welcome family members and the local community back into the home after socialising was limited for the last two years”.

Established in 2018 at a cost of £8million and spread across three floors, Cramond Residence provides a range of activities specially designed to give residents a richer and more satisfying life, with specialist facilities and trained staff on hand to provide support & relief.

Aside from its tailored activity programme, the home also provides bespoke physiotherapy sessions with boutique experts, as well as specialist dementia care which is delivered in an environment that combines luxury hotel living with the reassuring feeling of being in your own home.

Cramond Residence offers high quality care for up to 74 residents offering a small-group living concept in nine houses, with all residents enjoying an exceptional range of amenities and activities, delicious food and bespoke care from a highly-trained team.

Prices at the home start from £1,950 per week.

cramondresidence.co.uk/

Edinburgh’s newly-elected councillors have been urged to work together and “seize the mandate for action” to deliver on the city’s ambitious climate targets.

Dr Sam Gardner, chair of the Edinburgh Climate Commission, said the council’s new policymakers have “no reason to pause” following last month’s election, after which Labour formed a minority administration with initial support from the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives.

During the last decade the city council has been run by SNP and Labour groups, first with Labour Leader Cllr Andrew Burns at the helm and secondly with SNP leader Adam McVey in charge.

Prior to the election, the Commission – an independent group made up of 15 climate change experts sponsored by The City of Edinburgh Council and the University of Edinburgh’s Climate Change Institute – wrote to all parties asking them to outline their climate commitments.

“We found strong cross-party support from the Green Party, Labour, Liberal Democrats and the SNP to many of the actions we need to see in the coming months,” said Dr Gardiner, who is Head of Climate Change and Sustainability at Scottish Power.

The group received no response from the Conservatives, who are the only group on the council not committed to Edinburgh’s 2030 Climate Strategy, which has set a target of delivering a net zero city by the end of the decade.

Dr Gardiner added: “The latest global scientific report from the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC)  reminded us, if we needed reminding (and we really shouldn’t), that the climate crisis isn’t on hold.

“At its publication, the UN Secretary General said: “We are on a fast track to climate disaster: Major cities under water. Unprecedented heatwaves. Terrifying storms. Widespread water shortages. The extinction of a million species of plants and animals.  

“This is not fiction or exaggeration. Climate promises and plans must be turned into reality and action, now. It is time to stop burning our planet and start investing in the abundant renewable energy all around us.”   

“With this warning ringing in our ears, Edinburgh now faces the challenge of turning its targets and commitments into meaningful action.”

Election manifestos published by Labour, SNP, Lib Dem and the Greens this year included pledges to take action to implement the Climate Strategy, with commitments to ensure new housing developments and schools are built to maximise energy efficiency, and invest in the sustainability of existing homes.

Labour, now leading the local authority’s response to the climate crisis, has promised to invest £700 million in the next five years to ensure council tenants “have the lowest bills possible”.

The SNP, who are likely to pursue plans for a workplace parking levy and congestion charge and will have to see if these are supported by the new administration, said it will work to see investment in defences in response to the impact of extreme weather events linked with climate change to upgrade gullies and other drainage infrastructure.

The manifesto published by the Lib Dems stated global warming is the “single most pressing and important issue facing humankind” and, like other groups, pledged to deliver a more integrated public transport network, active travel routes, park-and-ride sites and electric vehicle charging. 

And acting on the recommendations of the 2030 Climate Strategy was a key focus of the Greens’ election campaign. The group said the council must “invest in the skills and capacity required” to meet the ambitious target and take steps to cut emissions including planting more trees, decarbonising the council’s light and heavy vehicle fleet and establishing an ‘Edinburgh Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy’ that “assists and facilitates building owners and tenants to improve the fabric of their buildings”.

The Conservatives in Edinburgh are unapologetically critical of the city’s current climate targets.

The 2030 net zero goal was criticised for having “no detailed costings or delivery plan” by the Tories ahead of the election.

“Without billions of pounds the council doesn’t have it is physically impossible to achieve in eight years,” the group’s manifesto stated.

It pledged to create a “realistic plan to address the council’s own carbon emissions” that is “both physically and financially achievable”.

Dr Gardiner continued: “With all the main political parties bar the Conservatives, committed to the published Edinburgh’s 2030 Climate Strategy there is no reason to pause, every reason to seize the mandate for action, and for all parties to work together to deliver positive change for our Capital.

“We know what steps we need to take for Edinburgh to get on track for net zero.  We know we have the technology. And we now know we have the public support for change.

“Edinburgh’s new Council administration must work across the Chamber to push forward the positive changes citizens of Edinburgh overwhelmingly voted for.”

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency: funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector, and used by qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

Modern apartments bring cosmopolitan living to the banks of the Esk.

A new release of apartments has been launched at a modern riverside development in Musselburgh. 

Dundas Estates has brought to market a range of high-spec one to three bedroom apartments at The Wireworks, the long-anticipated £35 million reimagining of the former Brunton Wireworks site on the tree-lined banks of the River Esk.

Offering a choice of sleek high-spec apartments and penthouses the project, designed by Michael Laird Architects, has seen early buyer interest from a broad range of backgrounds, including downsizers and first time buyers.

Private parking provision is available as well as lift-access to all floors. Most apartments offer balcony space or ground floor private garden areas, with open plan interiors providing the flexibility and space to work, relax and entertain from home.

The current availability ranges in price from £186,995 to £339,995 with apartments from 517 square feet to 1,055 square feet in size.

The developer acquired the land through a partnership with Tesco, East Lothian Council and NHS Lothian, after receiving planning permission to regenerate the former site and neighbouring land in 2008.

Craig Fairfoull, Head of Sales and Marketing at Dundas Estates, said: “Given how close we are to the town centre, we’re aware that this development is quite unlike anything ever built here before.

“Early interest is predominantly local, so it’s great to be able to meet a demand that has been unmet for a while. Ultimately, we want to build homes that make people feel great.”

To ensure it builds a welcoming integrated community, Dundas Estates has recently launched a Musselburgh community fund which will offer five businesses, charities and community initiatives in the local area funding.

This is part of their pledge to deliver lasting benefits to the local area, and is separate to its Section 75 contributions of £400,000 towards local schooling and infrastructure.

Of the available properties, plot 34 is a one-bedroom home featuring open plan living, with a Juliette balcony on the market for £186,995. Plot 26, a three bedroom apartment covers 1055sqf with a large open plan living area, en suite and family bathroom and balcony accessed from the living area.

The 140 home development will have the capacity to store 140 bicycles in internal and external bikes stores. Electric car charging facilities will be available throughout the development.

Dundas Estates has a mission to create homes that make people feel great. Headquartered in Livingston and proudly Scottish, it has a track record of building well-designed homes that are higher spec than a vast majority of competitor properties.

The developer is focused on building welcoming, integrated communities, and making the journey of buying a home more straightforward, inspiring and fun.

To learn more about The Wireworks, visit: https://www.dundas.co.uk/developments/the-wireworks

Cammo Meadows investment will help buses reach more homes

Funding provided by developers of new homes in north west Edinburgh, as required in terms of their planning permission, has led to an extension to the popular 41 Lothian bus service.

A new bus terminus – part of the Cammo Meadows development off Maybury Road – is aimed at promoting greater use of the city bus network,

The existing 41 service terminates at Cramond Road North, but from 5 June the route will be changed to start at Cammo, before heading down Whitehouse Road at Barnton junction, before heading down to Cramond and towards Davidson’s Mains via Cramond Road South.

An improved 43 service with more buses will continue to serve the existing section of Queensferry Road. As well as those living in Cammo, residents of Cramond will benefit from quicker and more reliable journeys to the city centre.

Working closely with The City of Edinburgh Council and Lothian Buses, the infrastructure has now been completed at the development, where construction is underway to provide 655 new homes by Cala Homes (East) and David Wilson Homes East Scotland.

Keith Finlay, Business Development Manager for Lothian said: “We are delighted to work with Cala Homes, David Wilson Homes and the City of Edinburgh Council to bring vital bus links to this new community. Working closely with planning teams and developers at an early stage allows us to ensure that the relevant infrastructure requirements can be prioritised for consideration to facilitate the provision of a sustainable transport offering.”

Gavin Pope, Land Director for Cala Homes (East) said: “Many families considering Cammo Meadows as a potential future home will have a strong interest in environmental issues and particularly in reducing their carbon emissions.

“By supporting the building of this new bus terminus and the extension of the 41 bus route, we are providing existing residents and future home buyers with a greater choice in how they travel locally.

“Supporting active travel – using the bus, walking or cycling – was an important element in drawing up the blueprint for Cammo Meadows, and we are delighted to partner with Lothian to deliver this tangible benefit so early in the life of the development. We hope this will be the first service of many utilising this new infrastructure.”

Alan Lyall, Construction Director at Barratt Developments, which includes David Wilson Homes, said: “At David Wilson Homes, our vision is to encourage homeowners to make the most of their homes and communities by leading a sustainable, energy efficient and environmentally friendly way of life. Supporting the building of this new bus terminus at Cammo Meadows and the extension of the 41 bus route will provide a welcome boost to public transport and encourage residents to make less car journeys, helping to lower carbon emissions.

“Cammo Meadows is an extremely popular location among buyers, with plenty of outdoor space right on your doorstep and close links to the city centre. The new bus link will further heighten connectivity, with quick access to the city which will encourage residents to support their local shops and services.”

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “I welcome the provision of the new terminus at Cammo as it will extend the sustainable public transport service in the local area, benefitting new and existing communities alike. This is a huge step in the right direction for this development, and I look forward to working with local Councillors on further improvements.

“I want to encourage people in all corners of our city to choose public transport for daily journeys and this kind of investment helps them take that step. Ensuring new developments are well connected to public and active transport routes is key to our response to the Climate Emergency.”

The Cammo Meadows development will include a range of detached and terraced homes and a collection of apartments of which 164 will be a mix of discounted sale, social rent and mid-market-rent properties.

It is estimated the development, which is expected to complete by Spring 2025, will contribute almost £220 million into the local economy and create 175 construction and supply chain jobs.

Emblation celebrates huge success of its pioneering microwave technology

A health tech firm has completed 100,000 treatments in the UK and Ireland with its innovative microwave device for treating skin conditions.

The milestone achieved by Scottish-based Emblation’s Swift® device has helped clinics across the country bring in more than £11 million in income. The device is now being operated in over 400 clinics across Britain and Northern Ireland with 1000 practitioners now trained in its use.

Gary Beale, CEO of Emblation said: “When we launched our Swift device into UK clinics from September 2016, we promised to bring benefits to the entire podiatry community where there had been little investment or innovation. We believe we have delivered on that promise.

“The UK has been the pioneer for this treatment, with clinicians grabbing the chance to be the first in the world to use the Swift device. We want to thank each and every clinician who has invested in Swift and helped us reach this amazing landmark. It really is thanks to our loyal and supportive customers that we are now in such an excellent position.”

Indeed, Emblation’s stellar performance recently helped it secure an eight-figure investment from London based specialist healthcare investors, Apposite Capital, to support the firm’s growth across Europe and to fund research for further clinical treatments.

Mr Beale explained that success is down to the popularity of the device among clinicians – who often previously found themselves unable to offer effective treatments to patients whose lives were blighted by persistent verrucae, common warts on the feet.

Emblation’s proprietary technology offers a simple microwave treatment for the condition and has won widespread praise and recognition within both the medical and technology arena for its results.

Matthew Butters, of Colne Valley Podiatry in Yorkshire, purchased a Swift system in April 2019 and his clinic has now conducted 1,400 treatments. He said: “When I first came across Swift, I didn’t think anyone would want to pay the amount that I would have to charge to get my money back per treatment. Looking back, I wish that I had purchased the device when I was first told about it.

“I was getting to the point where I was dreading getting calls from patients with verrucae because there wasn’t much I could do for them and any treatment I could offer would achieve very limited success.

“So, I decided to take the plunge and ordered a Swift. Business-wise, it is no doubt the best decision I have made.”

Matthew’s story is not unusual, with the Swift device offering a practical and effective treatment for a condition which effects millions of people, yet can be difficult to treat successfully. Within a month of launching, the Swift device had been rolled out to 60 podiatry clinics across the UK.

Eleven of those clinics have now completed more than 1,000 treatments, while six of them have invested in additional Swift machines. The device has since been successfully launched in the US, Canada and Australia and Emblation is currently focusing on launching into Europe.

Mr Beale added: “We know that once podiatrists, dermatologists, and other clinicians start using Swift it will rapidly become an invaluable and profitable part of their business.

“Many clinics which have installed a Swift device had never treated verrucae previously as they felt there were no suitable methods. Now they have a thriving verrucae treatment business thanks to the device.”

Emblation is the first in the country to use this kind of microwave treatment on verrucae and warts. The firm is also growing its research and development capability to treat other skin conditions, including pre-cancerous skin lesions where initial studies have shown excellent outcomes.

Emblation was founded by Gary Beale and Eamon McErlean, who met during post-graduate studies at University in Edinburgh. The pair went on to develop and launch Swift as a radical new treatment in the podiatry sector as well as developing their microwave-based cancer technology in partnership with global healthcare corporations.

Based in Central Scotland, the health tech firm has plans for an imminent move into a purpose-built new HQ in Stirling as a result of its continued expansion.

An Edinburgh property which has a home report value of £2.1 million is for sale for the first time in more than 30 years.

Located in an area regarded as one of Edinburgh’s most desirable, the detached period property, Ravelston Lea, has a distinctive architectural style and sits within its own gated grounds.

Spanning 3,456 sq ft and set back from Ravelston Dykes Road, the versatile family home is on three floors, with a sunroom, kitchen and breakfast room. To the front there is a large driveway with extensive parking and a double garage and outbuildings.

The rear of the home offers an expansive and professionally landscaped south facing garden bordering the grounds of Ravelston Golf Club.

Matthew Munro, Consultant in Property Sales at Simpson and Marwick, the legal firm handling the sale, said: “Ravelston Lea is an outstanding property that oozes charm.

“The immaculately kept gardens have been maintained by the current owner of the property who has a keen interest in landscape gardening. The beautiful grounds make for the ideal outdoor space, especially with summer fast approaching.

“I would encourage anyone interested in this property to come and view it for themselves as it really is one that needs to be seen to be fully appreciated.”

Just two miles from the city centre and a short walk to Stockbridge, Ravelston Lea is surrounded by a range of local amenities, golf clubs, shops and supermarkets.

The area also has school choices in both the private and public sector nearby.

Ravelston has excellent bus routes into the city centre and direct access to the main arterial routes to the city bypass, Edinburgh Airport, the Queensferry Crossing and the central motorway network.

A short walk alongside the Water of Leith takes you to the cafés and boutiques of Stockbridge. The Gallery of Modern Art and Edinburgh’s West End are also within walking distance, and the recently opened St James Quarter, an upmarket mix-used entertainment and shopping complex is only a bus or tram ride away.

Matthew added: “It is the perfect location. The property is close to the hustle and bustle of city life, but as it is so secluded with its own private gateway entrance, it truly is the best of both worlds.

“Architecturally, the house is stunning. This is a property that will give an incredible first impression, but there’s more to it than that – the spacious and homely interior is also one to be marvelled at, making it a great choice for a family home.”

Viewing can be arranged through the Simpson & Marwick property team on 0131 581 5711

Berwick FTS Bandits, powered by Keenwood Karpets, turn to Newcastle’s Lee Complin (pictured) this weekend as they bid to halt a six-match league and cup losing streak.

The Borders club failed to win a meeting, home or away, in May but this coincided with injuries to key men Leon Flint, Ty Proctor and Jye Etheridge.

Teenager Flint returned from a shoulder injury last weekend, scoring solidly in the Knockout Cup, first-leg defeat at Redcar Bears and scoring 12 – including a last heat 5-1 alongside skipper Chris Harris – in Saturday’s six-point home defeat at the hands of Glasgow Tigers.

Etheridge remains sidelined by a collarbone injury and the Bandits will use rider-replacement as they face another top three side, Leicester Lions, home and away this weekend.

Proctor also returned at Redcar but an awkward spill in the first heat against Glasgow aggravated neck and arm injuries and he is replaced by Complin for both matches.

Complin was a hugely-popular member of the Bandits’ side for three seasons before serious injury prompted his retirement from the sport, aged 28, in 2012. He was tempted back by Newcastle this season and his all-action style continues to delight supporters.

The rider has already guested for the Bandits this season, at home to Redcar and there is no doubt that injuries have blunted Berwick’s strong start to the season.

The loss of Etheridge, who was scoring heavily, especially at home where he had dropped just two points to an opponent in the four meetings before he crashed out against Redcar three weeks ago, was a real blow.

The 27-year-old Australian is hoping to test his shoulder next week with a view to returning to action with both Berwick and his Premiership club Belle Vue.

Harris has carried the burden for the Bandits during their losing run with support patchy at times. Theo Pijper and Ricky Wells suffered off-nights last weekend but there were signs that Reserve Kyle Bickley was beginning to translate his dominant form as skipper of the National Development League Berwick Bullets into the SGB Championship.

The young Cumbrian produced a series of superb overtakes in the closing stages against Glasgow, including a last-to-second ride past Craig Cook and Broc Nichol to join Wells for one of only three heat advantages for the Bandits on Saturday.

Leicester are currently making the running alongside Glasgow and Poole Pirates at the top of the Championship and in Nick Morris they have a former Berwick No 1, the Australian capping a successful 2017 season by winning the League Riders’ Championship in Bandits’ colours.

Skipper Kyle Howarth is a former winner of the prestigious Bordernapolis at Shielfield Park while reserve Anders Rowe finished fourth in the 2020 British Under-21 Final at the track and helped Edinburgh to a big win there as a guest last season.

Berwick team manager Gary Flint commented: “It certainly doesn’t get any easier, Leicester following Glasgow at Shielfield. Ty was not himself after crashing on Saturday and we chatted over the weekend before deciding it would be best for him and the team to concentrate on rehabilitation and building strength back up.

“We decided that Lee Complin was the obvious replacement, both due to his average but also his never-say-die attitude to racing. We’ll need that this weekend but we are determined to get ourselves back into the battle for a play-off spot and get points on the board, home and away.”

Both meetings this weekend – Berwick starting at the earlier time of 6.30pm on Saturday and Leicester at 4pm on Sunday – form the first part of a double header between the Grant Henderson Tankers Bullets and Leicester Lion Cubs who currently stand first and second in the table.Berwick have lost just once all season – at Oxford – and go into the weekend confident of taking maximum points again.

Leicester twins Dan and Joe Thompson – who also feature in the Championship side – and the experienced Connor Coles form a formidable spearhead for the East Midlands combine, but they have been hit with injury to reserves Max Perry and Kai Ward.

As a result, Kieran Lyden, who rides for Redcar Cubs in the Northern Junior League, guests on Saturday with Oxford Charger Sam Woods stepping in on Sunday.

Admission on Saturday is £24 for adults, £20 concessions, £6 for juniors (11-16 years) and £1 for under-11s but a special offer means that adults booking tickets online (berwickspeedway.com/tickets) can add free admission for juniors and under-11 and is by ticket or cash only. There is no facility for credit or debit card payments at admission points.

Berwick Bandits: Chris Harris, rider-replacement for Jye Etheridge, Theo Pijper, Leon Flint, Ricky Wells, Lee Complin, Kyle Bickley.

Leicester Lions: Nick Morris, Connor Mountain, Richie Worrall, Joe Thompson, Kyle Howarth, Anders Rowe, Dan Thompson.

Berwick Bullets: Kyle Howarth, Mason Watson, Ace Pijper, Greg Blair, Luke Crang, Kieran Douglas, Ben Rathbone.

Leicester Lion Cubs: Dan Thompson, Mickie Simpson, Connor Coles, Tom Spencer, Joe Thompson, Kyran Lyden, Vinnie Foord.

Two law firms have merged to create Scotland’s most experienced and accredited medical and clinical negligence team.

Drummond Miller will join with Peacock Johnston, uniting the best known medical negligence firm in the east of Scotland with its counterpart in the west of the country.

The 11-strong Peacock Johnston team – six lawyers and five other staff – will join the Glasgow office of Drummond Miller, which has 14 partners and 100 other employees across five offices, including headquarters in Union Street, Edinburgh.

Ian Hartley, Chief Operating Officer of Drummond Miller, said: “While both firms were already best-known in the medical and clinical negligence arena, this union takes us to an entirely new level.

“Together we become by far Scotland’s biggest expert in this field. We hope it will also give even greater confidence to clients pursuing cases, who are often extremely vulnerable people in damaging and distressing situations.”

Andrew Pollock, a partner at Peacock Johnston since 1993, added: “Beyond the clinical negligence work, this merger will also see us add real heft to Drummond Miller’s Glasgow office in terms of a litigation presence and in family law, employment law and criminal work, particularly in the Sheriff Court.

“It is an excellent match. It is extremely pleasing to be coming together with such a likeminded firm which shares our values and where we can continue to be proudly independent.”

Drummond Miller has stellar ratings for representing pursuers in clinical negligence cases and is rated as top tier by both Chambers UK and Legal 500 – recognised by the industry as the two most highly regarded independent guides to the best law firms and practitioners.  Peacock Johnston is also highly rated by Chambers UK.

Drummond Miller is also prominent in four other areas of practice – family law, immigration, private client and property and conveyancing.

The merger will see Andrew and Susith Dematagoda, an accredited clinical negligence specialist, become partners at Drummond Miller. Ken Waddell, a partner at Peacock Johnston since 2004 and one of Glasgow’s best known court practitioners, will work as a consultant, bringing his formidable reputation in family, employment and criminal law into the fold. Likewise, Laura Ceresa, an experienced and accredited clinical negligence specialist will also assume a consultant role.

While the financial details behind the deal remain confidential, the merger will add around 10% to Drummond Miller’s projected annual revenue. In addition, demand from clinical and medical negligence cases is anticipated to grow over the coming months.

Drummond Miller’s origins date back to the 18^th Century, with the firm in its current guise formed in 1991 by the merger of two established Edinburgh firms, Drummond & Company and Pairman, Miller & Murray.

In 2000 it acquired MacPhail & Co and L&L Lawrence to establish its Glasgow office, while in 2020 it expanded its Musselburgh business by taking over Alex Mitchell & Sons, which traces its history back 130 years.

It has been involved in many of the leading Scottish medical negligence cases in recent years including one of the longest running birth damage cases in the Court of Session. It has successfully litigated and settled a huge number of claims at all levels of value and complexity. The firm has recently been granted permission to take a fatal claim, acting on behalf of the family, in respect of alleged failures in care to the UK Supreme Court.

Peacock Johnston was formed in 1981, and gained recognition as one of Glasgow’s leading court firms.  It has carved a reputation within the profession as experts in clinical and medical negligence law, with many cases coming from direct recommendations from lawyers throughout the Scottish legal community.

To provide continuity, the team joining from Peacock Johnston will continue to use the brand name with a majority of their existing clients, in the short to medium term.

https://www.drummondmiller.co.uk/ 

More than 500 golf prodigies will descend on five historic East Lothian courses

EUROPE’S largest junior golfing event returns to East Lothian for the first time in three years, with organisers and competitors promising to return better than ever before.

The U.S Kids Golf European Championship is the largest golf tournament of its kind across the continent and will see the next generation of golfing stars and their families come together for three days of fierce competition across 16 age groups.

The 2022 tournament will take place from 31 May to 3 June, across five of the county’s most renowned golf courses.

More than 500 junior golfers from five to 18 will tee off over Craigielaw Golf Club, Glen Golf Club, Longnidrry Golf Club, Royal Musselburgh Golf Club and The Musselburgh Golf Club.

Junior athletes from 46 countries will be represented, with the farthest talent traveling a mere 7331 miles from Santiago, Chile to compete in the prestigious tournament.

Chris Vonderkall, the Vice President of Tournaments said: “We are ecstatic to be back in East Lothian after being unable to hold the competition the past number of years.

“There has been a big surge in interest in golf through the pandemic, it is really a huge gesture that the clubs are so enthusiastic about hosting the tournament.

“We are extremely appreciative – and it means another generation of young golfing talent can experience the magic of golf on the East Lothian coast.”

U.S. Kids Golf Foundation was founded in 1996 and aims to bring kids across the world into the lifelong game of golf and the European Championship is a living embodiment of that mission.

The Foundation hosts 10 additional International Championships, including the Venice Open, the Caribbean Championship in the Dominican Republic, and the British Kids Championship.

Launching its first tournament in 2000, U.S. Kids Golf Foundation now runs more than 1,600 events each year including the prestigious World Championship at Pinehurst.

Four days of celebrations to mark Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee are set to get underway in the capital.

The City of Edinburgh Council has spent £30,000 to commemorate the Queen’s 70-year reign, with £10,000 allocated to the council’s own events and £20,000 distributed to community groups throughout Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Council received 32 street party applications ahead of the extended bank holiday weekend.

Princes Street gardens will host live music and a carnival parade on Sunday as part of the festivities, and the city’s Lord Provost will light a beacon at Edinburgh Castle tonight – 70 years on from the Queen’s ascension, but 69 years to the day since she was crowned.

The council said there’s been a similar number of requests to hold traditional street parties in the city compared to the Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

Road closures will be in place on residential streets over the weekend, with most community events planned for Sunday. As some are being held in parks, not all required Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TTRO) to be granted by roads officers.

The roads closed to accommodate parties in Edinburgh over the weekend are listed below.

Friday 3 June

• Alnwickhill Road, Liberton, between Cadogan Road and Leadervale (closed 9am – 9pm)
• Cramond Avenue, between Cramond Gardens and Cramond Place (closed 2.30pm – 8pm)

Saturday 4 June

• Campbell Avenue, Murrayfield (closed 12 pm – 10pm)
• Netherby Road, Trinity, between Zetland Place and Lennox Row (closed 10am – 1pm)

Sunday 5 June

• Buckstone Gardens, Fairmilehead (closed 2 pm-5 pm)
• Belgrave Road, Corstorphine, between Clermiston Road and Belgrave Gardens (closed 12 pm – 6 pm)
• Corstorphine Park Gardens, south leg (closed 10 am – 5 pm)
• Murrayfield Avenue, between Henderland Road and dog-leg at Murrayfield House (closed 9 am – 11 pm)
• Murrayfield Drive, between Murrayfield Road and Ormidale Terrace (closed 11 am – 8 pm)
• Ormidale Terrace, between Murrayfield Drive and Kingsburgh Road (closed 12 pm – 9 pm)
• Lismore Avenue, Meadowbank (closed 10 am – 5 pm)
• Ulster Gardens, between Ulster Crescent and Ulster Terrace (closed 11 am – 9 pm)
• Hillpark Avenue, Craigcrook, between Hillpark Drive and Hillpark Road (closed 12 pm – 7.30pm
• Orchardhead Road, Liberton, between Orchardhead Loan and link road to Kirk Brae (closed 1 pm – 5 pm)
• Morningside Place, between Morningside Road and Morningside Park (closed 10 am – 10 pm)
• Brunstane Road, between Joppa Road and Dalkeith Street (closed 10.30 am – 9 pm)
• Coillesdene Drive, Joppa, between Coillesdene Avenue and Coillesdene Crescent (closed 1 pm – 6.30 pm)
• Woodside Terrace, Joppa (closed 1 pm – 5.30 pm)
• Mansionhouse Road, Marchmont, between Grange Road and Dick Place (closed 11 am – 6 pm)

In addition to the community organised street parties across the capital this weekend, the council has a series of events arranged to mark the monarch’s milestone.

A beacon will be lit at Edinburgh Castle on Thursday evening by Robert Aldridge, the Rt Hon Lord Provost of Edinburgh, along with the Army’s Commander of Edinburgh Garrison.

It will be one of 2,022 lit across the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, UK overseas territories and commonwealth countries to mark the start of the jubilee celebrations. 

And on Sunday in West Princes Street Gardens – where 35,000 flowers and plants have been used to create a ‘floral clock’ in honour of Her Majesty’s record time on the throne – festivities will be in full swing with live music from the Royal Marine Pipe Band, local act Love Music Community Choir and an Edinburgh Festival Carnival parade.

The council urges everyone to ‘dust off their best picnic blanket’ for the free event, which will also include a showing of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant broadcast live from London shown on big screen in the gardens.

The Rt Hon Lord Provost said: “The Platinum Jubilee is a truly historic event and it was important to find a fitting tribute here in the Capital for those who wish to come together and celebrate the occasion.

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency: funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector, and used by qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

Transport matters have been the talk of the steamie in Edinburgh for many years, but particularly during the pandemic when Spaces for People measures were introduced in many areas of the city. These were not universally welcomed, and many inches of newsprint have been devoted to the different views in several areas of the city.

It is against that backdrop – and with the knowledge that the city is not looking its best right now with uncollected and overflowing bins reported daily – that the job of Transport and Environment Convener became vacant after the election. This is a huge role covering bins, recycling rates, road layout, condition and of course potholes – some of the main topics of conversation in the back of any black taxi and the subject of more councillors’ questions at a full council meeting than any other portfolio.

Labour’s Cllr Scott Arthur was rather unexpectedly appointed to the role last Thursday morning when the Labour group formed a minority administration with 13 out of the 63 councillors elected in May 2022.

Just after he was named as the new Convener, he spoke to the full council explaining that he agreed with the SNP councillors who had expressed their concerns about the Conservative government, but he had not heard any of the SNP members admitting that the SNP Government could do more to deal with the cost of living crisis, and that some of their policies have made it worse.

He said: “That is the balance we need in this chamber. We need to stand up for the people, everybody in our city, irrespective of what our party is. That’s our job. In terms of the programme for government we didn’t put ours online the day before this meeting – we published ours about two months ago. That is what we are standing on, that’s what people are voting for today.

“It’s the most progressive, radical and most left wing programme this city has seen for decades. That is what we are going to implement. The policies here on getting to net zero, on increasing active travel funding by 50% and building more council houses – not unaffordable, not affordable houses, but council housing – that is what we are going to do. And we will do that while also focusing on service delivery. We will not be telling people that the condition of the roads are improving when they can look out of their windows and see that they are not. We won’t be telling people that council houses are getting built when they are not. We will be truthful and we will be honest about the challenges our city faces.

“And we will send Cllr Day to COSLA to stand up for our city. I back some of the policies in the SNP/Green programme, I absolutely do, and I hope we can take forward some of their ideas around the tram network. But a business case is only a start and we need funding to deliver these projects. With Cllr Day in COSLA those arguments will be made alongside other council leaders right across this country.

“Everybody in this chamber has a duty to stand up for our city and demand that it is fairly funded.

“Going forward – I look forward to us all working together. When we work together is when this chamber is at its best. We need to focus on where we agree, but there are only three parties in this chamber who gained votes and gained seats in the election – the LibDems, Greens and Labour. Our first call must be to them as they are parties in the ascendancy, but I am open to having discussions with all parties in this chamber.”

Cllr Scott Arthur Transport and Environment Convener

A cyclist and and engineer, he brings a fresh face to the job, (although he claims it will be a temporary position) and when asked for one word to describe his first week in the job he replied “positive”. He regards the basic services like bins and potholes as crucial. He said: “Ultimately it’s the basics that people want when they pay their council tax. People are proud to live in Edinburgh, but sometimes they’re ashamed of what they’re seeing.”

The first Transport and Environment Committee (TEC) meeting was to be held before summer to progress the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETROs) which retain some of the Spaces for People measures in place, but now officers have decided that will not be required and the first TEC meeting will be held on 18 August instead.

Cllr Arthur began: “Well, first of all I guess even last Wednesday I didn’t expect to be doing the job on the Thursday. So that was an interesting 24 hours for me. But it’s been good actually, because I have had quite a few reasonably short discussions with key people in the council just to talk about issues that are arising. And also to let me ask some ‘daft laddie’ questions along the way.

“Something I am quite keen to get an understanding of is the mismatch, if there is any, between workload and resource. So what I see from being a ward councillor, is some quite basic stuff. For example we had approvals for speed limit reductions in January 2021 that have still not happened yet. And I think that’s down to basically staff workload. So right across the board, whenever I meet people, this is what I’m trying to understand – actually what work do you have to do? And how does the staff resource match to that?”

This is an engineer’s approach – looking for some data on which to form opinions and actions. When it comes to household bins for example Cllr Arthur has formed the view that generally it works quite well – but admits there is room for improvement on city streets.

He said: “I think household waste collection in Edinburgh seems to be done relatively well. I’m not saying there’s not issues, but my discussions with the staff seem to tell me that things are going well.

“Where we’re struggling is street cleanliness, and also road condition. And I think there’s an acceptance, and staff are very clear, that basically, that’s a resource issue.

“They are some way short on the finance that they need to really do as best as they can on street cleanliness, and I think likewise with road condition. And that is not going to change going forward. The government announced this week that there are going to be further cuts coming to local government, if nothing changes.

“So I would like all these services to set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). And what we’ll do is meet with the officers, and then at forthcoming Transport and Environment (TEC) meetings, we’ll get an update, say, on road condition for example.

“And the question we will be asking them is if the budget doesn’t change what can you do over the next five years to improve road condition? And if we’re able to increase it, what difference will that make and what will be the impact of cutting it?

“What I see TEC doing is actually measuring performance against what’s been promised right at the start of the administration. And, of course I’m hopeful that approach will encourage both people in my party and other parties to think about the implications of both cutting or increasing spending, and also encourage the staff to think about different ways to do things, about using staff better in a supported way.”

I suggested to him that this seems to be a very pragmatic, scientific approach which Cllr Arthur accepted could even be a compliment. But he admitted: “This came out of discussions with officers, so it is something they like as well. But it’s true, I’m an engineer and so I do value data more. And I like to measure things. But I want to be sure that when we are using KPIs, it’s actually measuring performance, rather than people simply just trying to tick the KPI box.

“I had a long discussion about temporary road repairs, and whether or not they are actually improving the road surface. Of course they are – but whether or not they were actually meeting expectations, and about where we can get it right first time more often.

“I’m keen that we do new things and exciting things, but I’m also keen that we scrutinise the basic delivery of services – our bins getting uplifted, increasing recycling rates, filling potholes – all these basics, because ultimately it’s the basics that people want when they pay their council tax.

“When I was speaking to council officers about this, it was them telling me that the city centre isn’t good enough – they were telling me, I didn’t have to tell them. I am very mindful, though, the impact that both Covid, and the financial situation over the last few years has had on staff wellbeing, staff morale, and all these things. So we have to take staff with us as well.”

A new approach to transport and environment matters

Cllr Arthur said that he is reaching out to ward councillors to give him guidance on local issues such as the issue of disabled parking in Inverleith next to the Botanics, and also talking to the members of TEC to find common ground for the committee to work on in the next few years.

He said: “I’ve already contacted Cllr Booth and Cllr Macinnes to set up meetings, because I know they’ve established a common platform. So I want to see which parts of that I can work with them on, and then which parts of my manifesto they can support. And that would give us a core of things, and I can speak to the Lib Dems, and also the Conservatives.

“Cllr Lesley Macinnes brought huge projects to TEC, you know, the City Centre Transformation, City Mobility Plan, the tramline extension, and inputted directly into City Plan 2030. And these are huge things that I’m absolutely committed to seeing through.

“But really, that rate of change, we can’t really continue that. So what we’ll have to do is consolidate to take us forward. But the biggest challenge this administration has to face over the next five years is the rate that houses are going to be getting built inside Edinburgh, and around Edinburgh.

“So what I’m trying to do is to restart dialogue with surrounding local authorities to talk about the amount of cars, which are coming into Edinburgh, you know, 50,60, 70,000 cars per day pre Covid. And think about what we have to do to reduce the number of cars coming into the city. And that has to be about carrots and sticks.

“I know that at least one of the parties put forward a plan for a congestion charge. I don’t really think it was workable. But what I want to do is start off by speaking to local authorities, the surrounding local authorities and say, look, let’s define the problem that we’re facing, which is that Edinburgh is the most congested city – one of the most congested cities in the UK – we’ve got air quality problems, and we’ve got wellbeing problems.

“So let’s define that problem, and then once we’ve defined the problem, let’s work on a solution together. We can’t build these tens of thousands of houses, for people to continue to drive in but I recognise that if we say to people – which is what a congestion charge is doing – “Stop driving into Edinburgh” – If there’s no alternative, they’re just going to pay the charge and continue driving. And that’s not what we want.

“We’ve seen in Nottingham, where they introduced the workplace parking levy that it did not actually reduce congestion. And in fact traffic continues to increase in Nottingham. And that’s because when you price some people out of using their car, it just frees up road space for people who can afford it. And that’s a problem we have to solve. Raising money is great, but we’ll have to solve congestion.”

Consensual politics

In the very early days of this new administration, now just a week old, criticism has been levelled at the Labour Party saying they will have to depend on Lib Dem and Conservative assistance or support to get any plans passed by council committees. When The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to Kevin Lang, leader of the Liberal Democrats, he said that he will only vote with the administration if his group is in agreement with whatever they are proposing, and will vote against if not.

Cllr Arthur said: “I think the dirty secret is that most councillors agree on most things, and most reports going through committee go through without vote. Often where there is disagreement it can be a bit of a pantomime at times – a bit of grandstanding, I have to say, and we’re all guilty of that – I’m not immune to it myself.

“But yes I’m open to working with all parties. So that’s why I’ve reached out to the Greens and the SNP in the first instance to try to agree that common platform. And that’s why I’ve also been quite openly giving Lesley Macinnes credit for some of the good things she’s done going forward. I have been critical of Lesley Macinnes in the past, but I agree with her on most of the stuff that’s come through TEC – not all of it. But that’s life, isn’t it?

“And these members of TEC, Lesley Macinnes, Chas Booth, Kevin Lang – I’m not sure quite sure who the transport person is for the Conservatives yet – these people all have something to offer, and I’m perfectly open to working with them. I think each individual vote will need a different coalition to take it forward, that is my prediction. We saw that in the last administration – it was quite often that the Greens would vote with us on the sustainable transport things but where we had to do a bit of, you know, actually making life easier for car drivers, often it was the Conservatives.

“I’m hopeful, though that the tone will change. I’ve been really open about how the Transport Committee affected my well being. And I spoke to another councillor who said exactly the same, and I think we have to change that. I want to be clear I don’t blame Convener Lesley Macinnes for that – I blame everybody on the committee, including myself, of course.

The best thing that happened during the first week?

Cllr Arthur said: “I went to a community event run by a local church where they give free food to people in Oxgangs. That’s normally my highlight of the week and it still is. So all this other stuff’s been great, but it’s still good actually connecting real people which is really positive rather than people trying to lobby me for things all the time, you know, at all levels.”

Critical Mass Ride Saturday 28 May 2022

31 May 2022 The Low Emission Zone (LEZ) began in Edinburgh although enforcement will not begin for two years. Cllr Arthur admitted this was a big ticket item that the previous Transport Convener, Lesley Macinnes had progressed. He said: “I was very clear that the LEZ is really a project that Cllrs Macinnes and Doran, and of course, council staff, took forward and they deserve huge credit for that. And here’s me just steps in at the last minute, and gets my picture taken.”

There will be more photo opps in the future, but the Transport and Environment Convener will also be expected to set out plans for policy in the next five years, and see that through. We look forward to the first TEC meeting and whatever is on the agenda then.

The Labour Manifesto:

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Parties manifestos on transport matters

Jackie Brown and staff at the Drylaw Rainbow Club Day Centre laid on an outstanding lunch for their members and invited guests on 1 June.

After lunch the tribute band Scotland’s Rocks entertained everyone who attended with some of their best Scottish tunes.

The Christmas party for the last couple of years had been cancelled and this was laid on partly to replace it – but also to have a right royal knees up.

Council Leader Cammy Day who is a regular at the club made a short speech to welcome everyone to the lunch.

Under-strength What The Fork Monarchs face this weekend’s Knockout Cup quarter-final double-header against Glasgow determined to build a lead on Friday in the first-leg at Armadale before the return at Ashfield on Saturday and the Armadale combine have been heartened by topping 40 at two tough venues, Plymouth Gladiators and Poole Pirates, this week.

Injured riders Lasse Fredriksen and James Sarjeant are still out and Oxford’s American-born Dillon Ruml stands in for Sarjeant over both matches. Rider replacement applies for Fredriksen with Paco Castagna, Jacob Hook and Ruml qualifying for extra rides.

The history books say that Monarchs have removed Tigers from the cup on their last two meetings – 2018 and 2021 – but Glasgow came to Armadale at the end of April and won 51-39.

Monarchs’ team boss Alex Harkess said: “On Friday we begin a difficult cup tie with Glasgow. We beat them last year when it wasn’t expected that we would and we also recently pushed them to just a two-point defeat at Ashfield.

“So it isn’t something which is beyond us and we need to but start with a home victory which is essential. We need every single rider to do their very best. If anyone is even a shade off then we will struggle.”

Monarchs are forced to use guests for their top two of Sam Masters and Josh Pickering in the second-leg due to a fixture clash with a Polish fixture which takes precedence in the international calendar. Richard Lawson and Justin Sedgmen stand in.

Friday’s Knockout Cup match will be live streamed and details on www.edinburghmonarchs.co.uk

WTF MONARCHS: Sam Masters (capt), rider replacement for Lasse Fredriksen, Kye Thomson, Paco Castagna, Josh Pickering, Jacob Hook, Dillon Ruml (guest).

ALLIED VEHICLES TIGERS: Craig Cook, Connor Bailey, Ulrich Ostergaard, Benjamin Basso, Tom Brennan, Danyon Hume, Broc Nicol

Saturday 4 June: Glasgow v Edinburgh (Championship Knockout Cup, quarter-final, second-leg), Ashfield (7pm)