Edinburgh University finally disposed of stuffy Clydesdale 5-1 thanks to a four-goal, second-half burst to march on in the Scottish Men’s Hockey Cup.
Player/coach Hamish Imrie and his new-look side, who are third in the men’s Premiership, were 1-0 ahead at Peffermill, but Clydesdale, who are sixth in the top division, failed to convert a penalty corner.
The students netted a second then had to defend a series of penalty corners before breaking out to claim three goals late on and seal the game.
Imrie said: “This was a really good performance, particularly in the second-half, but we had to defend well against a good Clydesdale team.”
Premiership combine Inverleith were level at 0-0 at the first break against a determined and hard-working National League side Strathclyde University who are third in their table.
But former Commonwealth Games player Derek Salmond netted to ease home nerves in the second quarter and Tom Barton followed with a second just after half-time.
James Stuart, making his return to the squad after injury, claimed No 3 in the final session following a penalty corner award.
Coach Chris Duncan said: “This was a job done for us against a team from a lower division which fought really hard.”
Elsewhere, Grange, second in the Premiership, disposed of city rivals Watsonians, who are fifth in the top league, 5-1 at Fettes College with Fraser Heigh netting twice and teenager Murray Banks also scoring.
Player/coach Callum Milne said: “This was a much improved performance and we controlled much of the ball, particularly after they had a red card issued against one of their players.”
Scottish Cup: men: Grange 5, Watsonians 1; Inverleith 3, Strathclyde University 0; Edinburgh University 5, Clydesdale 0; Gordonians v Kelburne postponed; Western v Dundee Wanderers postponed.
PICTURE: action from Inverleith v Strathclyde University at Mary Erskine School
New at the Fruitmarket Warehouse – Jyll Bradley’s Pardes
Pardes is the first stand-alone commission for the Fruitmarket’s new Warehouse created by Jyll Bradley who has taken inspiration from a number of systems that have contributed to the rich history of Scottish growing.
The work created in live edge plexiglass panels, and others which are two way mirrors, pays homage to the structures created by historic Scottish fruit growers. The walk-through creation is designed to make the most of both the light and the natural warmth in the bricks of a walled fruit orchard, and to the cultural heritage of the Fruitmarket as an old fruit and vegetable warehouse.
Bradley was commissioned about four years ago before the Fruitmarket had renovated the space that was once Buster Brown’s, but prior to that was the Fruitmarket. She admitted it was quite hard to envisage what the area would become at that point, but she was intrigued by the light seeking structures in Scotland, and has created what she calls an abstract sculpture.
There is a space underneath it where people will come to Fruitmarket to do some yoga, or even hold parties.
The title comes from an ancient name for a walled fruit garden that gave rise to the familiar word “paradise”.
Jyll Bradley is a British artist rapidly gaining an international following for her art which draws on systems and structures of growth as metaphors for cultural exchange, place and identity.
Fruitmarket Director Fiona Bradley said: “We love to see how artists react to the new Warehouse space and are excited to present Jyll Bradley’s Pardes – our first stand alone installation in the space. Bradley’s light-filled installation will be a place for reflection, contemplation and co-creation in the dark winter months.”
Interacting with their sites and the people who visit them, her recent ambitious public realm commissions include Green/Light (For M.R.) for the 2014 Folkestone Triennial, and Dutch/Light (2017) for Turner Contemporary. Light is a key element and activator in all Bradley’s work.
Jyll Bradley Pardes Fruitmarket, Edinburgh, 27 November 2021 – 18 April 2022
UK Space Agency invite children to enter competition
Children aged four to eleven years old are invited to design the logo which will be displayed on the first small satellite when it is launched next year.
The UK Space Agency has set up a competition for primary school children in the hope of inspiring them about space. The design brief is that the logo is to reflect what data from small satellites can teach us about climate change as well as possible solutions.
Science Minister George Freeman said: “2022 will be a historic year for the UK space and satellite industry, with the exciting prospect of the first small satellites launching from British soil.
“The continued strength of our growing space industry depends on finding and attracting future talent, and this competition is a great way for children to learn about the importance of satellites and to showcase their creativity.”
The UK Space Agency competition will run until March 2022 to ensure teachers, parents and children have sufficient time to get involved.
The overall winning design could be displayed on the rocket that launches into space and finalists may even have the opportunity to attend the first satellite launch from the UK.
Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “Next year, small satellites will launch from UK spaceports for the very first time, helping to support our world-leading Earth observation capabilities and create high-skilled jobs across the country.
“This competition offers young people the chance to learn more about this exciting activity and hopefully inspire them to be the next generation of space talent and be part of the UK’s thriving space sector.”
Ginnelly hopes home advantage can help Hearts bounce back
Hearts forward Josh Ginnelly has called for his teammates to bounce back after a disappointing defeat at Motherwell last weekend.
It was a dismal afternoon for Hearts in Lanarkshire. The Steelmen bossed the match for 90 minutes, as Hearts struggled to implement their own style of play that has seen them lose only once prior to last weekend.
Hearts have enjoyed much success at Tynecastle this season and are yet to lose at home, so they will go into Saturday’s match fully expecting to pick up all three points.
“This is a chance for us to bounce back from last week,” said Ginnelly, speaking at a press conference to promote the new 2021/22 SPFL Sticker Collection.
“We went through the Motherwell match to see what we could do better and try to rectify it against St Mirren.We tried to play, and I think we didn’t reach our best and we weren’t at it. That game is gone now, and we can’t dwell on it, we have to move on.
“Any team that beats us this season it is like a massive achievement for them. The way they celebrated is a compliment to us and now we have to try and win this match.
“Whenever we lose a game, instantly people seem to think that we are off form. We will have plenty of disappointing days, but that’s just the way football is. We just have to stay with it, keep backing each other and I am sure we will be fine.
“I think sometimes there will be days when we can’t play the football we want to play. When that happens you have to adapt quickly to how the game is going, and we didn’t do that well enough against Motherwell.
“St Mirren might be a similar game, so we need to put our game onto them early doors. I think we have players who can play nice football but also roll their sleeves up.
“When Boycey came on it was a lot better against Motherwell and he suited that game. Myself, Ben and Barrie couldn’t really get into the game as they had giants at the back.
“We played into their hands, and we can’t let that happen again. It’s a credit to us I suppose teams try to stop us playing our game. Saturday was a learning curve for us, and we know teams know how good we can be.We have to enforce our plan onto teams before they do it to us.”
Josh Ginnelly with the new stickers collection
Liam Boyce was back in the matchday squad last weekend and came off the bench for the final 30 minutes but is expected to be fit enough to start against St Mirren and Ginnelly admits the impact the Northern Irishman has on the team can’t be underestimated.
“Boycey is a massive player for us. I think with him in the team, we have a focal point up front. If the conditions are going against us we can use them to hold the ball up and bring us into play. Having him back will frighten teams because he has got everything.”
Ginnelly impressed in the last home game against Dundee United, where he played in the middle of a front three, the winger is content with his performances, but still believes there’s a lot more to come.
“To be honest I think I could do a lot more. I’m not that type of player to start doubting myself, I know what I can do, and it will come. I have to keep working hard in training, stay fit.
“In the last three or four games I’ve had three or four goal involvements, assist or goals or whatever. I’m not putting any pressure on myself, if we keep playing the way we do it will come out.”
St Mirren are without a win in five games and are expected to be without defender Conor McCarthy after he picked up an injury during the draw with Livingston. Nevertheless, Ginnelly believes the Buddies are a good side, but believes the home advantage will be a huge benefit to Hearts.
“They’re a decent side and have some decent players,” said Ginnelly.
“It will probably be similar style to Motherwell but with it being at home we have an advantage with the crowd, and we will go out there looking to implement our game.
“We want to repay the fans and ourselves. The Motherwell game was not a good picture of ourselves, and we want to set that right.”
Josh Ginnelly helped launch the new 2021/22 SPFL Sticker Collection sponsored by Topps.
Government makes changes to quarantine rules on passengers arriving from six African countries
The Scottish Government has taken a decision to protect public health in Scotland in light of an emerging variant.
All travellers returning to Scotland from South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Botswana will be required to self-isolate and take two PCR tests from 12:00 on Friday 26 November, regardless of their vaccination status.
Managed Quarantine accommodation will be stood up to cater for any arrivals from these countries. This will apply to all arrivals from 04:00 on Saturday 27 November.
The decision follows concerns about cases of the emerging B.1.1.529 variant cases in the south of Africa, given concerns over a high number of mutations and the effectiveness of vaccines against it.
Anyone who has arrived in Scotland from any of the six countries in the previous 10 days will need to enter Managed Quarantine hotel on arrival to Scotland and will need a day two and day eight coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test regardless of their vaccination status.
Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport Michael Matheson said: “International travel restrictions are necessary to protect the greater public health. While many restrictions have been significantly relaxed – largely thanks to the success of the Scottish Government’s COVID-19 vaccine roll out – we have always said it may be necessary to quickly impose fresh measures to protect public health in Scotland.”
Christmas Caledonia, Come and Sing – book now
Luminate, Scotland’s creative ageing organisation, has created a special dementia inclusive Christmas event broadcasting live music from The Queen’s Hall to singers in their homes on Saturday, 11 December 2021.
Musicians in Edinburgh will be joined by singing leaders from the charity’s Dementia Inclusive Singing Network to allow people of all abilities and particularly older people to enjoy traditional songs and specially commissioned short videos and other performance pieces. The Come and Sing event – called Christmas Caledonia – is free and will take place over Zoom on 11 December, from 3pm – 4.15pm.
Dementia Inclusive Singing Network Manager, Kirsty Walker, said she wants as many people as possible to join in on the day from across Scotland and further afield.
“Using Zoom means people can sign up as groups or individuals to take part. The programme will run from the Queen’s Hall and everyone watching will be able to sing along, toast the season and enjoy the extras we have planned.
“The Network exists because research shows that people with dementia benefit from singing, and singing with others is even better. We wanted to find a way to bring people together to celebrate the season, after more than a year of pandemic-related change and disruption.
“Christmas Caledonia will be a relaxed occasion – led by our amazing singing leaders – focused on inclusivity and enjoyment, and is for absolutely everyone.”
For the event, the Queen’s Hall will be decorated with art pieces and hangings from the Dolphin Arts Project in Ullapool, whose artists and volunteers work with those living with dementia, their families, and friends.
A film-poem has been commissioned from Lewis-based poet Ron Coleman, known as the ‘Demented Poet’ and will be shown for the first time during Christmas Caledonia.
The Dementia Inclusive Singing Network is funded by The Life Changes Trust and the Baring Foundation. People wanting to take part should book a place to receive the links and more information about the day. The event will be captioned and song lyrics will also be downloadable for those who need them.
Christmas Caledonia, Come & Sing. December 11, 3pm-4.15. All welcome.
The report below is produced by The City of Edinburgh Council’s EdinTravel team and will show you what to look out for on the roads in the capital in the next week.
If you see anything on the roads which is not on the list then let the travel team know on Twitter @EdinTravel
Members of the public in affected areas are advised not to travel – in particular the east and north east where there is a rare Red Weather Warning for strong winds across much of the area in place.
Motorists are being advised not to drive and members of the public not to travel after the Met Office issued the warning.
The Red Weather Warning will be in place for all coastal areas within Angus, Dundee, Fife, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, East Lothian and the Scottish Borders. This warning is in place from 3pm on Friday 26 November until 2am on Saturday 27 November.
People in these areas are being advised not to travel. Motorists within these affected regions should not travel under any circumstances.
A number of Yellow and Amber Weather Warnings for wind and snow continue to be in place within all the previously mentioned regions. Motorists within these locations are urged to take due care and travel only if absolutely essential.
A ministerial meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) was held earlier today to ensure preparations and appropriate measures are in place.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “The decision by the Met Office to issue a rare Red Weather Warning for strong winds signals a potentially damaging and dangerous risk to life in some areas of Scotland.
“People in these affected areas should not travel, including motorists. Yellow and Amber Weather warnings also remain in place for a number of areas and people should continue to exercise extreme caution and plan any necessary journeys in advance as there is disruption to transport services.
“The Scottish Government is in close contact with local authorities and the emergency services to ensure people in the affected areas receive the latest information, advice and support where needed.”
A1 closed at Thistly Cross
The A1 is now closed in both directions between Thistly Cross roundabout and Abbotsview Junction.
Wind speeds of up to 84mph are forecast for this evening where the trunk road bridges over the River Tyne near East Linton.
A diversion route is in place via the A199. This is expected to add approximately 10 minutes to affected journeys.
Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s Network Manager for South East Scotland, said: “This section of the A1 includes an exposed bridge over the River Tyne, so with gusts up to 84mph forecast this evening we’ve closed it to all traffic for safety, in line with the bridge’s wind management plan.”
Neilson keen to offer new contract to keep Halkett at Tynecastle
After the disappointment of not just the result at Fir Park, but the manner in which Hearts succumbed to their second league defeat of the season leaves Robbie Neilson’s side needing to bounce back this weekend.
The Jambos host St Mirren tomorrow and will be looking to repay the 3,800 supporters that travelled to Lanarkshire in good faith last weekend but were treated to Hearts’ poorest performance of the season.
After the defeat at Pittodrie last month, Hearts responded well with a victory over Dundee United and the Hearts supporters will be expecting a similar performance and result this weekend.
The Hearts boss admitted that his players struggled to impose their own style on the game, which he believes was down to the stop-start nature the game was played in.
“We went to the game last Saturday and it was very stop-start, there was no flow in it,” said Neilson.
“The ball was dead for 64 minutes out of 90. That means you’ve only got 26 minutes of football; we’ve got 55% of possession, which works out at 14 minutes of actually having the ball.
“That means that when you’ve got the ball you’ve got to take your opportunities, which we didn’t, but also when you don’t have the ball you need to defend better than we did.”
Historically, Hearts have struggled away from home, however they did get the better of tomorrow’s opponents in Paisley earlier in the season and Neilson was quick to defend his sides away record.
“If you look at most teams, their home form is better than their away form. It’s about figuring out how to win away games.
“People said our away form had changed, now we have lost two away games and people say it’s now the end of the world and the away form is terrible.
“As the manager we have to have a way of playing. You can’t do one way one week and something different the next. You need continuity. We are trying to bring young players through and tell them this is how you play at Hearts.
“I spoke at the start of the season of trying to improve the away form. We did really well at the start of the season, but the last couple of the away games we’ve not performed.”
The Hearts fans have voiced their concerns recently on Neilson being too reluctant to change formation when things aren’t working.
Hearts’ two defeats this season against Aberdeen and Motherwell have largely been down to the opposition having an extra player in the middle of the pitch.
The Hearts boss believes that instead of changing things when something isn’t working, Hearts simply need to be better on the field.
“A lot of times when you lose games people say you need to change this and that, but we decide as a club how we want to play and instead of changing things that don’t work we have to get better at what we are doing.”
Craig Halkett missed out last weekend with a hip problem, but Neilson confirmed he will return this weekend and added that he is keen to keep the defender, who’s contract expires in the summer, at Tynecastle.
“We’re speaking to Craig Halkett as well. We’ll try and get something done. I’d love to keep him; he’s done very well this season for us. Playing in the middle of that back three I think it suits him and he’s improved, as the team has improved.”
When asked if Hearts missed Halkett last weekend, Neilson replied:
“Probably. I think the physicality, the way in which Motherwell play, being direct, strikers using their physicality and backing in, getting into areas because of that and gaining territory, so yes, I think Craig would’ve helped us.”
It’ll be a year on Sunday since Hearts suffered an embarrassing League Cup exit at the hands of Alloa Athletic. That performance was one of many last season, which lacked energy, creativity and just sheer quality.
Now however, Hearts have that in abundance, and despite a poor performance last weekend, maybe some perspective is needed with the Jambos currently sitting third in a competitive top-flight.
When asked about the progress in the last year, Neilson said:
“If we’re going back a year, then it probably shows how far we’ve come. Sometimes when you’re at a club like Hearts, you win a couple games you’re up there then you lose a couple and you’re down there.
“We need to have a balance and not be to up and down. We’re a good team, we believe that we’ve showed that this season, but we’ve still got quite a way to go to make sure that when we don’t play it’s not downhill like it was at the weekend.
“We’ve got a young squad as well and quite an inexperienced squad as well, so we have to learn to balance that off and my job is to try and manage the external noise that comes from a good performance and a bad performance.”
Premier Sports Cup – Heart of Midlothian v Inverness Caledonian Thistle
25/7/2021.
Hearts play host to Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the Premier Sports Cup at tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Midlothian.
Pic shows: Hearts’ Canadian Right-Back, Craig Halkett.
Credit: Ian Jacobs
Canada Goose opens first Scottish store
Canada Goose has opened its first store in Scotland and it is on Multrees Walk in the centre of Edinburgh and the two-floor space has been designed to combine the essence of the brand with the tradition of Scottish craftsmanship.
Pat Sherlock, president EMEA Canada Goose, said: “In this new space, guests will learn what our promise to inspire and enable all people to thrive in the world outside truly means.
“We look forward to connecting with the local community, telling our brand story directly and providing an unfiltered and premium experience to Scotland’s urban adventurers.”
Canada Goose currently operates over 30 stores across three continents. and the luxury lifestyle brand’s expertise in clothing has been built from decades of first-hand experience, tried and tested in the harshest places on earth.
The Scottish store will offer a broad assortment of over 300 seasonal items built for Edinburgh’s oceanic climate, including the newly-launched footwear collection, rainwear, windwear, lightweight down and premium knitwear for men, women and children, as well as cold weather apparel designed to shelter from the elements.
Edinburgh will offer many of Canada Goose’s latest collections plus classic heritage styles, including the Chilliwack Bomber, originally designed to outfit pilots in the Artic, and the Mystique Parka, a go-to style for talent seeking warmth between takes on film sets – both the brand’s most iconic pieces.
The store will also feature Hybridge products: from jackets and hoodies to vests, and the collection is designed by mixing down insulation with flexible fabric making it the perfect layer for active pursuits. Sweats, sweaters, knitwear and fleece will also feature.
What’s on at The Parish Church of St Cuthbert’s
One of the main takeaways from the pandemic is that many organisations have risen to the digital challenge of finding ways to seamlessly continue parts of our lives online. Churches are a good example of having discovered ways of getting round the problem that people were isolating at home and churches were closed.
The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland changes each May, and the current Moderator, Lord Wallace, and the past two incumbents, Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair and Rt Rev Colin Sinclair have all used the internet to connect with members of the church over YouTube. They have led chats, discussions, prayers, services of worship when church buildings had to be closed. When Dr Fair was installed as Moderator there was only a very small gathering allowed and the proceedings were streamed online. There are many videos on the Church’s YouTube channel which can be watched again.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert’s which sits in West Princes Street Gardens entered from King’s Stables Road has also found many digital solutions which allow people to take part in their religious services. Each service is streamed online, or anyone can listen in to the service over the phone, or receive a DVD of the service by post after it has taken place.
Apart from their many digital solutions, the building at St Cuthbert’s, believed to be the oldest Christian site in Edinburgh, is used each day for a variety of different purposes.
Every week at The Parish Church of St Cuthbert’s, Reverend Peter Sutton leads the usual Sunday service in the morning, followed by a free meal for their homeless friends served in the church. During the pandemic the meal was served outdoors, but the charity can now serve up their meals inside the building.
The meal is produced and served by volunteers from the church’s charity partner, Steps To Hope, along with help from pupils from St Augustine’s High School, George Watson’s College and Fettes College who arrange the furniture and set the tables. Another meal is also served on Mondays again with the help of Steps to Hope which “works to provide the basic necessities for those who do not have a home”. If you wish to help then donate to Steps to Hope here.
On the first Wednesday of each month the church is open at lunchtime for anyone to enjoy a little time out during Soul Space – whether it is a break from work or shopping people can visit the church for a spot of wellbeing.
During the remainder of November and throughout December, the church will be busy. Here is a snapshot of what is on. You will also be able to check details on the St Cuthbert’s website here.
28 November, the first Sunday in Advent, Service at 10.30am with Legion Scotland celebrating their centenary.
4 December National Youth Choir of Scotland Edinburgh Choir Winter Concert at 7pm
Join NYCOS Edinburgh Choir it returns to in-person performing for the first time in two years! The singers will be led by Choir Director, Mark Evans, as they showcase music prepared over their latest term in a wonderful winter concert. You can also expect some of your favourite festive songs and carols to start off your winter season.
Led by enthusiastic and expert staff, NYCOS Edinburgh Choir provides great singing experiences that are both fun and develop musical skills. Taking part also provides an opportunity to make new friends, boost confidence and build social skills. The emphasis is on singing for fun, and on establishing good pitching and a good ear using the Kodály method. Choirs meet on a weekly basis where small groups take part in musicianship games and a full singing session.
10 December Erskine Charity hold a Carol concert at 7pm
11 December 7.30pm Edinburgh Bach Choir Sing Choirs of Angels! Tickets £5 to £15.
13 December St Mary’s School carol service at 7pm.
14 December Fettes College Carol service.
15 December Edinburgh charity SPIFOX hold their CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT AND LUNCH at 11am.
In December each year, the SPIFOX committee organise a Christmas Carol Concert at St Cuthbert’s Church on Lothian Road, then moves on to the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on Morrison Street for lunch, entertainment, fundraising, and festive cheer with our contacts and colleagues across the real estate and construction industries in Scotland.
In the past they have hosted stars such as Lulu, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Nicola Benedetti and Ricky Ross from Deacon Blue.
The Christmas lights have been switched on in Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness. Glasgow will follow on Wednesday. And “Christmas villages” have sprung up in just about every city, town and tourist attraction. There’s even one at the battlefield of Culloden.
And will vaccine passports be required in more places\? No. On Tuesday the first minister Nicola Sturgeon stunned us all by flying in the face of all the official hints that the passport system would be extended beyond night clubs and football matches. Covid case numbers, she said, had stabilised and were even coming down. There are now fewer than 3,000 new cases a day, 700 in hospital and an average of 13 deaths a day.
She even announced a slight relaxation in the rules, allowing a recent lateral flow test to be counted instead of a double vaccination certificate. More young people are now vaccinated and 1.5 million of the most vulnerable people have now received a booster injection. But the government has also come under intense pressure from the hospitality industry not to deprive them of yet another Christmas season.
I don’t suppose Scotland would ever see riots over Covid restrictions – we don’t do that sort of thing – but we’ve seen how easily the mood can change in normally compliant countries like The Netherlands, Belgium and Austria.
Photo Ian Georgeson
The death of 27 migrants in the English Channel on Wednesday has made us all question what Britain is doing about refugees. The UK home secretary Priti Patel questioned if Scotland was doing enough to house asylum seekers, pointing out that only one of Scotland’s 32 local councils – Glasgow – was participating in the UK government’s refugee dispersal scheme.
So the UK Government rather than the Scottish Government, she said, was having to book hotels in Falkirk, Perth and Aberdeen to house some of the 23,000 asylum seekers who have attempted to cross the Channel this year.
But the councils have hit back at the Home Office saying they have not been given any extra funds to pay for hosting asylum seekers. And the private company engaged by the UK government, Mears, was ignoring local councils and local conditions. And, anyway, hotels are not the best places to accommodate large groups of asylum seekers.
Indeed SNP politicians are becoming increasingly annoyed by UK “interference in Scottish affairs.” There’s a long running row over UK government plans for a “free port” in Scotland. This week, we had an announcement of an air subsidy for flights between Dundee and London. And £10m for a hydrogen scheme on the wind-farm on Eaglesham Moor. Why, the SNP argue, are these decisions being made in London rather than in Edinburgh.
But Nicola Sturgeon put aside her political differences with the Conservatives to go on a joint visit to a drug rehabilitation project in Glasgow with the Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross. He’s been highly critical of the Scottish government’s handling of the drug crisis. We have the highest rate of drug deaths in Europe, 1,264 in 2019. And he wants the right to drug rehabilitation written into law.
Ms Sturgeon, for her part, has promised that an extra £50m will be spent each year to tackle the problem. Interesting, both have argued that a test of official “injection rooms” should be part of the solution, but that is opposed by the UK government.
I’m happy to report that Stirling is the happiest place in Scotland. The finding comes for a survey of 21,000 people across the UK by the property company Rightmove. Its happiness index includes friendliness, community spirit, amenities, job opportunities, schools and green spaces. I’m less happy to report that my town Edinburgh came fourth after Perth and Inverness but above our big rival Glasgow which came seventh.
But even Stirling could only come sixth in the overall UK results. We were all outshone by the sweet little town of Hexham in the north of England where the average house price is a leafy £297,000, compared to Scotland’s average of £194,000. This town of leather-workers has obviously come a long way since William Wallace burnt the place down in 1297. But next time I venture south of Hadrian’s Wall, I hope a little of its happiness rubs off on me.
Social Bite launch Festival of Kindness to spread festive cheer
Charity Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness has launched in Edinburgh and in four other UK cities, expanding on last year’s campaign, in a bid to spread some much-needed festive goodwill and kindness.
The charity is asking people in Edinburgh, London, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee to donate meals, gifts, essential items and accommodation to those who need it most this Christmas.
Throughout the campaign, Social Bite has set a target of providing 300,000 meals and essential items of the winter months to those experiencing homelessness this festive period.
Working alongside local partners, Social Bite has installed five 28ft tall Christmas trees across the country and is asking people to buy one extra gift, drop it under the tree and contribute to a movement of kindness. Festival of Kindness locations include:
· St Andrew Square, Edinburgh
· Charing Cross Station, London
· Vinicombe Street, Glasgow
· Outside M&S at the Bon Accord centre, Aberdeen
· City Square, Dundee
The charity has created a gift wish list of the things homeless and vulnerable people need the most – from a warm pair of gloves, a hot water bottle and a torch, to good quality socks and toys for children living in temporary accommodation to open on Christmas morning.
Passers-by can drop their gifts at the trees and take in the Christmas lights, meet Santa in Edinburgh and hear more about Social Bite’s ambitions from volunteers. All gifts will then be distributed by Social Bite’s dedicated team to those who need it most, just in time for Christmas.
Josh Littlejohn, MBE, co-founder Social Bite PHOTO Ian Georgeson
Social Bite co-founder and Executive Director, Josh Littlejohn, MBE, said: “This Christmas, many of us will be able to reunite with family and friends to celebrate after so many restrictions. But for homeless people and families, the pandemic has made their situation particularly desperate. Thousands of people all over the UK will spend Christmas on the streets – cold, hungry and lonely, without a family to go to. Thousands of children will find themselves in temporary emergency accommodation or without food on the table over the festive period.
“That’s why we are building on the success of last year’s campaign to expand our reach even further, going from two to five locations and taking Festival of Kindness to London for the very first time.
“Our Festival of Kindness campaign aims to spread some festive cheer. In a world, where you can be anything, we’re urging people to be kind and buy or donate a little extra to help those who need it most – even the smallest of gifts will make a huge difference.”
Monetary donations can also be made online via the Social Bite website which will then go towards the provision of food, gifts and essential items. Donations will also help fund accommodation and support for those sleeping rough in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and London.
Social Bite has a track record of successful fundraising campaigns, having previously hosted ‘Sleep Out’ events in all major Scottish cities, then helped to launch The World’s Big Sleep Out for a global campaign attended by Hollywood A-listers including Dame Helen Mirren and Will Smith in 2019. Last year’s Festival of Kindness held in Edinburgh and Glasgow raised over £1.5m.
All gifts should be new and unwrapped, with a helpful ‘how-to’ guide on their website.
Light cascades across the turf at the Royal Botanic Garden. The exhibit is called A Sea of Light and it lives up to its billing as well as being a fitting finale for this year’s Festive light show.
The eye-catching mix of sound and light technology from award-winning company ITHACA was used by Coldplay during their Glastonbury performance and it was undoubtedly a memorable highlight which had guests reaching into their pockets for their cameras.
It was only 3C on a windless, still night but the fingers felt a tad cold pushing the button, but it was worth it to record the scene to remind one of the visit.
This is just one of the new exhibits in the glittering array of light and flame on view for 32 nights until January 2 and profits from ticket sales helps to support research and conservation efforts at home and abroad.
It took us just over an hour to leisurely stroll around the garden, taking a number of pictures on the way, and be assailed by an explosion of sound and colour.
Among the sounds were classics like Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Bing Crosby, Walking in a Winter Wonderland from Michael Buble and Last Christmas from Wham.
Sleigh Ride from The Ronnettes and It’s Beginning to look a lot like Christmas from Johnny Mathis plus Chris Rea’s favourite, Driving Home for Christmas, were also on the play list.
Fireflies in the Woods produced by Electric Foundry, 100 points of LED lights tangled through the trees, created a twinkling hidden wonderland proved popular when we visited.
Digital Rain’ by Bespoke lighting and video is an immersive installation of LED lights that ‘rain’ down on guests to create a shimmering shower.
Rounding off the new installations is Aquastell by PITAYA, where large looping arches with beams of light flashing illuminate the night sky. For me, this was one of the exhibits which excited, so much so that I took more pictures here than anywhere else.
Another highlight was Sparkling Waters with music from Il Divo.
A favourite from last year was the Christmas Cathedral by Mandylights, a 55metre-long, window-like structure showcasing thousands of individual, flower-shaoped LED lights. This again proved a really popular spot for guests to take pictures so be patient but we listened to the favourite, When You Wish upon a Star as we waited.
For those concerned, there are health and safety measures in place to ensure that visitors follow Scottish Government guidance on COVID-19.
There is a reduced capacity of attendees, a one-way system, a request to make space for others and the mandatory wearing of face coverings in indoor areas.
Bosses say these measures will be monitored and visitors kept informed of any changes to guidance during the run.
Last year, the trail welcomed 66,000 visitors during its five-week run and this year’s event, which can be visited by people from all over Scotland after the lifting of travel restrictions, is predicted to be a record.
Kari Coghill, the garden’s director of enterprise and communication, said that tickets are still available and she added: “This year’s trail is one of the most spectacular yet.
“We are really looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Garden over the coming weeks and those who attend directly contribute to our wider work, with profits from ticket sales helping to support our vital research and conservation efforts in Scotland and around the world.
“At a time when the impact of the climate on biodiversity is high on the agenda globally, our work is more important than ever.”
Jonathan Marks, chief development director at Raymond Gubbay, a division of Sony Music, which promotes the trail, added: “Christmas at the Botanics is a huge draw within the Capital’s festive calendar.
“We are extremely pleased with the breadth of artists and installations that are part of this year’s trail and I am sure that the experience will be as magical as ever.”
For ticket information, prices and timings visit www.rbge.org.uk/christmas. A timed entry system will be in place with visitors encouraged to book now.
Glencorse Barracks saved from closure
An announcement that Glencorse Barracks is to be retained was made by Defence Secretary Ben Wallace at Westminster on Thursday.
Midlothian MP Owen Thompson welcomed the decision and said:- “I am both relieved and delighted to see the UK Government u-turn on the decision to close Glencorse Barracks. It made no sense economically or strategically to close this modern army base, which not too long ago was hailed as “bench-mark accommodation” by the Ministry of Defence.
“It’s not just the loss of jobs at the Barracks, we would have lost the important links between Glencorse and the wider Penicuik community. The armed forces personnel and their families play an integral role in life in the town. To lose this would have been devastating both economically and culturally.
“I have petitioned against the decision to close Glencorse Barracks since the decision was announced. I am so glad the UK Government has finally seen sense.”
Marketing agency recognised for out of this world contributions
A UK firm which has established itself as a global leader in strategic marketing for space companies has been nominated for a number of prestigious awards for its work connecting and promoting those within the fast-growing sector.
Despite only being two years established, AstroAgency ranked amongst 10 of the country’s best small and medium-sized enterprises for 2021 after being nominated for Digital SME of the Year at the UK Digital Leaders 100 Awards.
Founder and Creative Director, Daniel Smith, was nominated for Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2021 Great British Entrepreneur of the Year Award, while Marketing Manager Lara Zanoni has been nominated for NextGen’s Rising Star Award, an award that celebrates women in space.
Smith has helped drive the establishment of four space start-ups in the last four years and is an advisory board member for UK-wide student space group, UKSEDS, as well as being former Chairperson of Space Scotland, an industry-led group working in collaboration with both Scottish and UK governments and national universities to develop Scotland’s space sector in support of the overall UK space sector offering.
The UK government has made space a priority, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson recently providing the foreward to the UK Space Strategy.
Smith believes the nominations are testament to the firm’s unique offering and his team’s passion for working towards a sustainable, diverse and inclusive global space sector, with AstroAgency’s 23 strong team boasting a varied range of expertise from space technology, rocket science and satellite data analysis to business development, digital marketing, public relations and corporate communications.
Daniel said: “What sets AstroAgency apart is the diversity of our team and the technical understanding we can bring to our clients to help them enter, grow and succeed in the fast-growing commercial space sector.
The vast majority of our team have previous experience in space organisations large and small and have detailed knowledge of the sector – which, when combined with our passion for business development and marketing, makes us a good fit for many space firms. Even our interns are building satellites or launch vehicles at university!
“Being nominated for these awards is a nod to the hard work the team have put in over the last two years, starting up at the beginning of a global pandemic with a unique idea that hadn’t been done before, and we could not be more humbled to have that effort recognised.”
Lara Zanoni and Daniel Smith
The Digital Leaders 100 list is curated by public vote and awards teams and individuals for their work within the UK’s digital transformation sector while the Great British Entrepreneur celebrates the best entrepreneurs from around the UK.
AstroAgency Marketing Manager Lara Zanoni was recently nominated for NextGen’s Rising Star Award – hosted by the world’s oldest existing space advocacy organisation, the British Interplanetary Society.
Lara said: “In the past, the space sector has been a predominately male dominated industry so it is brilliant to see women coming up the ranks throughout the space sector.
”I’m very proud to have been nominated for such a prestigious award that celebrates women in the industry, and to work for such a diverse company – in fact, AstroAgency has more women than men, which is unusual for the space sector.”
The recent award nominations come in addition to the firm’s nominations for two Sir Arthur Clarke Awards earlier in the year – receiving commendations in the Education and Outreach Team category and the Industry/Project Individual category, where Smith was recognised for his efforts to promote sustainability and a more diverse space sector.
The Sir Arthur Clarke Awards, better known as ‘The Arthurs’, have been presented since 2005 and recognise individuals and teams who have made notable or outstanding achievements or contributions to the space sector.
AstroAgency, which was founded in 2019, have not only survived the economic struggles of the pandemic but have had many successes within the space sector.
The firm creates and amplifies messaging from private and public sector organisations operating in space or looking to move into the sector, with a unique combination of strategic marketing support, brand building techniques, space media coverage, detailed technical knowledge and all-important market intelligence.
AstroAgency is helping businesses – that may not perceive themselves as space firms – to realise their potential and offerings in one of the UK’s fastest growing sectors.
The agency is on the hunt for organisations which have transferrable technology, skills or experience that can be utilised within the space supply chain and currently looking to hire three new team members for marketing roles.
Headquartered in Edinburgh, AstroAgency’s rapid growth and diverse remote team is based in key strategic locations, including London, Milan and Paris.
Rangers have today confirmed they have been allocated just over 1,000 tickets for their trip to Tynecastle on 12 December.
Both Rangers and Celtic have previously been allocated the complete Roseburn Stand at Tynecastle, however on this occasion their allocation has been “significantly” reduced.
Despite receiving almost 11,000 ticket applications for the match, only 1,000 away fans will be permitted access to the match next month.
An update on the Rangers website states: “Rangers can confirm that the away allocation for our match against Hearts on the 12th December is just over 1,000 tickets which is significantly lower than previous visits to Tynecastle.
“Rangers has expressed its disappointment to Hearts regarding this reduced allocation and requested additional tickets are made available if possible.
“The demand for tickets for this match is exceptionally high, with nearly 11,000 registrations received.
“This has created very difficult conditions for the ticket allocation process. In light of the small allocation and exceptionally high demand, we have decided to only ballot tickets within the Gold MyGers Membership tier.”
Rangers travel to Edinburgh twice in December, they face Hibs on the 1st day of the month and have been allocated 3,800 briefs for that particular match.
cinch Premiership – Heart of Midlothian v Aberdeen
22/8/2021.
Hearts play host to Aberdeen in the cinch Premiership at Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Midlothian.
Pic shows: Honours even in a close fought encounter as the match finishes 1-1.
Credit: Ian Jacobs
Hotel and events business celebrates milestone anniversary
A cutting edge hospitality organisation is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary. During that time it has opened a travel agency, expanded its charitable work and welcomed over two million people from around the world.
Exactly 15 years ago this month, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd), Surgeons Quarter opened and at the same time Ten Hill Place hotel was launched in its central location.
Surgeons Quarter, which promotes, sells and manages the commercial activities held within the four venues of RCSEd campus, initially had only three employees and has grown into a team of 100+.
The hotel has hosted over 1.2 million delegates over the last 15 years with Ten Hill Place welcoming an additional 850,000 guests for overnight stays.
The four-star independent hotel hosts guests from all over the world to Scotland’s capital city – and together with the Surgeon’s Quarter conference and events business has made a significant contribution to the local and national tourism economy.
Profits from across the portfolio go directly towards RCSEd’s charitable aims of improving surgical standards and patient outcomes worldwide.
Managing Director of Surgeons Quarter, Scott Mitchell said: “The past 15 years have been filled with excitement, challenge and dedication as we improved and expanded our offering across the commercial portfolio.
“We must thank our visitors from over the years who have opted to stay and host events with us. Their constant support encourages us to push ourselves to make every visit a memorable one.
“Across the organisation, our team always go above and beyond which has helped make us a trusted central Edinburgh venue. It’s a privilege to be surrounded daily by motivated and passionate individuals, who I’m proud to call my colleagues.”
Guest Services Manager, Lesley Christensen who has worked for the organisation for more than 13 years, said: “There have been so many positive changes during my time with the company. We’re passionate about what we do and that shows in the team we have built and the success we have had. There is never a dull moment.”
In January 2020, the organisation launched its newest venture Surgeons Quarter Travel, an agency arranging global travel for conference delegates, experienced surgeons and members of the public.
Scott added: “Our focus is on simplifying the travel experience by reducing the time and cost. It’s been an exciting venture so far and we look forward to expanding in the future.”
Surgeons Quarter’s commitment to sustainability has been ongoing. In 2019, the hotel removed single use bottle of water in the 129 bedrooms to reduce plastic waste. It is estimated this will save more than 80,000 plastic bottles a year.
More recently the venue invested over £20,000 to install six electric Garo EV points with an ambition that the Hill Place hotel car park will, in the near future, only be accessible to electric vehicle.
Reservations and Administration Assistant, Mhairi Ferguson, who has been with the organisation for 14 years said: “I have seen the hotel grow in so many ways. From starting off as just a 78-bedroom hotel and going onto expanding into Surgeons Quarter which encompasses 129 bedroom hotel, Café 1505, Surgeons Quarter Travel, Meetings, Conference and Events.
“We are not just your average hotel; we are an independent unique enterprise.”
The hotel, which expanded to 129 rooms in 2018, has supported its partner charity, Bowel Cancer UK and became Scotland’s first hotel to adapt its facilities to become more user friendly for those living with a stoma bag.
Scott said: “Making our hotel accessible and comfortable for all has been a priority since opening our doors. We want guests to feel at home from the moment they enter the lobby and looking back, it makes me extremely proud to have implemented such vital improvements so early on.”
As well as supporting surgical causes around the world, Surgeons Quarter has supported medical staff closer to home. During the first lockdown, with the support of a number of its team, it accommodated frontline NHS workers at Ten Hill Place who needed close access to the city’s key hospitals. In total, it provided 2137 free nights, carrying a cost of £100,000, while also providing thousands of free meals.
Scott added: “Like many in the industry one of our most challenging periods was 2020 as we were unsure what state the pandemic would leave us in and if we were going to be able to continue operating.
“However, the past few months have shown the world’s love for traveling and exploring new cities and we are extremely grateful to have had the expertise of our team and RCSEd to rely on.
“Here’s to the next 15 years – we look forward to being part of the capital’s evolving hospitality sector.”
Surgeons Quarter, Cafe 1305
Scott Mitchell – Managing Director
Double success for city restaurant owner
Edinburgh businessman Masum Uddin is celebrating a double success after two of his restaurants were honoured at this year’s Scottish Curry Awards.
The Cove, which is located in the Blackhall area of the city, scooped the prestigious accolade of Team of the Year at the recent black-tie event in Glasgow.
Vinyasa on St Mary’s Street just off the Royal Mile, was named the capital’s best restaurant.
The 13th Scottish Curry Awards were held over from last year due to the pandemic and were a celebration of local businesses, where winners are a true reflection of quality and customer service as they are chosen by members of the general public.
“I was delighted to win these two awards and cannot say thank you enough to all the support we have received from everyone to get us this far,” said Mr Uddin, who opened the doors to The Cove in November 2019.
“These awards are highly thought of in the industry and reflect a lot of hard work put in by a lot of people. We have a special team at The Cove and they work tirelessly to ensure customers thoroughly enjoy their dining experience with us.
“It’s a great ending to the year as it’s the second award The Cove has won recently, which is great for a relatively new restaurant and shows we must be doing the right things.
“It has been a tough time recently so to be honoured in this way is extra special and gives the whole team a lift. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our loyal customer base and my sincere thanks goes to the local community for the loyalty they have shown us despite the hardship they have all been facing.”
Situated on Hillhouse Road, The Cove serves up some of the finest Bangladeshi and North Indian cuisine in the city thanks to the creations of head chef Jahed Miah. In September, the eatery was named the Best Asian Restaurant in Edinburgh at the city’s 5th Asian Restaurant Awards.
The team at The Cove
New Director appointed at Collective
Collective, the contemporary art centre on Calton Hill, has announced the appointment of Sorcha Carey as new Director.
This appointment marks a new chapter in the evolution of Collective, which opened its redeveloped home on the City Observatory site on Calton Hill in 2018. Collective’s mission is to bring people together around new art and in its first year on Calton Hill the centre for contemporary art welcomed over 400,000 visitors.
Sorcha joins the gallery as it seeks to consolidate and develop its programme, trading enterprises, and fundraising activity following the pandemic. Currently Director of Edinburgh Art Festival and Chair of Festivals Edinburgh, Sorcha takes over the leadership role at Collective following the departure of Director Kate Gray earlier this year.
Sorcha Carey brings extensive leadership and senior management experience gained in a range of different cultural contexts to her new role, combined with a passion for sharing contemporary art practice with the widest possible audience, and specialist expertise of working with artists to realise new projects. Director of Edinburgh Art Festival since 2011, Sorcha has led the festival through a period of sustained development, initiating a range of new supported opportunities for artists and inviting new voices into the festival’s programming approach.
Chair of Collective’s board of trustees, Anne Bonnar, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sorcha Carey as Collective’s new Director. Sorcha has a strong track record in supporting artists, broadening audiences, and in fundraising. She has a wealth of experience in forging local, national, and international partnerships. Sorcha will lead Collective into our next chapter, as we strive to be a bold, collaborative, and inclusive centre for contemporary art.”
Sorcha Carey said: “For over 35 years, Collective has been at the forefront of supporting contemporary artists to share their unique perspectives with the world. I am extremely excited to contribute to the latest phase in their journey, as they continue to develop their home on Calton Hill as a contemporary observatory for the city, where together artists and audiences can shape new ways of thinking and seeing.”
Sorcha will take up her new post in February 2022.
Pijper back as a Bandit
Berwick have confirmed that they have re-signed experienced Dutchman Theo Pijper (pictured) for a fourth spell in Bandits colours.
Pijper, who rode for Scunthorpe this year, last appeared for the Shielfield Park side in 2018 and has won the championship title with Edinburgh Monarchs and Glasgow Tigers
Gary Flint, Bandits’ manager, said: “Theo fits into this side perfectly and he joins a few of the boys on absolute gift averages. He is pretty much unstoppable on his day around Berwick and has a mass of experience on the trickier away tracks too.
“To make the play-offs we need to dominate at home and also pick up some victories on the road, and acquiring the services of Theo is another step towards achieving that dream.
“Theo is a fantastic team man on and off the track, he has a real spring in his step when he is wearing the Bandits colours and we are really happy to welcome him back.”
Gordon backs charity Big Hearts foodbank collection day
As Hearts prepare to welcome St Mirren to Tynecastle on Saturday, the Jambos skipper, Craig Gordon was keen to highlight an important event taking place off the field.
The club’s official charity, Big Hearts, will hold their sixth annual food collection in aid of the Community One Stop Shop.
The matchday collection will enable the local Broomhouse foodbank to continue to provide essential supplies to hundreds of struggling families every month.
“It’s great for us to be able to get involved with that,” Gordon said. “Especially now, coming out the back of Covid and other things that have gone on.
“The area around the stadium is obviously not the most affluent area of Edinburgh, so for us to be able to help and for the players to know a little bit of the background around Hearts and around that area is great for us to be involved with and show that we support it,” he added.
“As a young player you’re trying to forge your career, but as you get older, you realise what goes on around a football club and how much they mean to the supporters and people of that area.
“Hearts are doing great things with the charity, Big Hearts, they’ve got the mental health support classes that they do in the changing rooms, the foodbank event too, so all these little things are good, and they all add to what the club can do to help the community.
“Ultimately, it’s all about trying to make this a bigger and better club that helps the community and that’s what football club’s almost have a duty to do now, so I’m very happy to be involved and try and push it as much as we can as players.”
From 12:30 on Saturday, supporters can drop their supplies off at the Wheatfield Stand turnstiles and at the Foundation Plaza.
Online donations can be made until 4 December through the fans’ forum Jambos Kickback
Duncan issues warning to squad
Premiership combine Inverleith, boosted by their 7-1 victory over Kelburne in the league, host Strathclyde University (Mary Erskine School, 13.30) in the Scottish Hockey Cup on Saturday.
And coach Chris Duncan (pictured) warned his men not to be complacent about a team who are third in the National League with seven wins and two draws in 11 games having scored 50 goals and let in 18.
The playcaller said: “It is always a tricky game against a club from the division below. They have been going well and have had some tight results against teams at the top of that league.
“It is their cup final and we have to be on our toes and on our game to take away any chances of slipping up.”
Grange beat Watsonians 4-2 in the men’s Premiership last weekend and they meet again in the Scottish Cup on Saturday (push-off 11.30am) at the same venue, Fettes College.
It is the feature tie of the round with Grange, second in the top division on 26 points from eight wins and two draws in 11 games, against a side in fifth spot with five wins and two draws in ten fixtures.
Grange have scored 63 goals and let in 20 while Watsonians have scored 25 and conceded 16 for 17 points but have a number of players unavailable, partly due to the 11.30am push-off.
The round also features another all Premiership clash with third-placed Edinburgh University hosting sixth-placed Clydesdale (11.30am, Peffermill).
The students have 22 points having won six and drawn four of their 11 starts while Clydesdale have 16 points having won five of their ten games and drawing one.
Free-scoring Erskine Stewarts Melville, who top the National League with nine wins and two draws in their 11 outings, scoring 67 goals in the process and letting in 11, entertain former Premiership pace-setters Dunfermline Carnegie (Inverleith Playing Fields, no time given).
Other ties include Premier leaders Western against bottom-club Dundee Wanderers and it is also Glasgow University v Grove Menzieshill (Garscube 12.30), Gordonians v Kelburne (Countesswells, 13.30), Western v Dundee Wanderers (Auchenhowie, 13.30), Hillhead v Uddingston (Upper Windyedge, 15.30).
Meanwhile, Watsonians are on duty again on Sunday when they travel to seventh-placed Uddingston (14.00) in the men’s Premiership.
Waltz set for tough debut
Fife Flyers have signed 26-year-old Colton Waltz to beef up their defence and the Canadian is expected to ice against Premier Sports Elite League leaders Guildford Flames on Saturday (19.15).
He joins Flyers, sponsored by UNISON Fife Health Branch, after being released from ECHL side the Cincinnati Cyclones and Waltz started his professional career in the Canadian Western Hockey League and, after a spell playing college hockey with the Northern Alberta Institute of Tech, the 6ft 1in player had a spell in France with second tier side Strasbourg.
Todd Dutiaume (pictured), Flyers head coach, said: “Colton will be a big, strong and steady defenceman. The guys in there have been doing a tremendous job, but are going to need a little more assistance.
“He is going to be tough to play against down low and he will be quick to get the puck into the hands of the forwards which is something we have been looking for and Colton comes in highly recommended.
“We have heard nothing but fantastic things about his character and he will complement this dressing room, where we already have a lot of cohesion.”
Canonmills developers answer comments from climbing centre owners
Property developer company, HUB, has just begun public engagement on its proposals for a site at 16 and 23-27 Dunedin Street in Canonmills where it intends building “aspirational but attainable homes”.
But, after comments made elsewhere online today, they have issued a comment to allay concern over much-loved climbing facilities, Alien Bloc and Alien Rock.
The founders of Alien Bloc and Alien Rock say the climbing centres are both at risk if Alien Bloc has to move out of its premises when the current lease comes to an end. They have said that the financial future of both is intertwined.
An online webinar is taking place here on Wednesday as part of the public consultation with local residents and stakeholders. A public webinar will open at 6pm.
The developer says the consultation so far has “gone very well”. They are now keen that concerns raised regarding one of the tenants at Dunedin Street, Alien Bloc, are answered.
HUB is happy to help allay such concerns and is fully committed to working with both of its tenants to ensure they continue to thrive.
Damien Sharkey, Managing Director of HUB said: “HUB is delighted to have had a positive initial engagement with both our tenants at Dunedin Street to ensure that these successful local businesses can continue to thrive in the area. Early engagement with our tenants is fundamental to ensuring our emerging proposals meet the needs of our existing tenants and the wider local community. HUB takes great pride in having ensured all the businesses we’ve engaged with on all our developments have been able to continue to operate successfully and we’re confident that can be achieved here.
“HUB fully understands the value of having Alien Bloc in this location. Alien Bloc is a fantastic facility, and we look forward to continuing to work with Alien Rock to ensure their long term future is here at Dunedin St or nearby.”
The nearest climbing facilities are at Edinburgh International Climbing Arena at Ratho on the outskirts of Edinburgh.
Council grants planning permission for new Dunard Centre
Today the council’s planning committee granted permission which will allow the first concert hall for a century to become a reality.
Earlier in the year, the Edinburgh and South East City Region Deal announced new designs for the “cultural flagship”, saying the £75 million Dunard Centre “will fill a recognised gap in the region’s cultural infrastructure and provide a platform for local, national and international musicians to perform to audiences in the very best environment”.
Part of the funding for the new concert hall is to be sourced from the City Region Deal, and some of the funding is from the Dunard Fund, a major philanthropic donor in the city under the direction of Carol Grigor.
The move to create a new concert hall is fronted by IMPACT Scotland who state that the 1000 capacity hall with its new design will have the flexibility to welcome the widest possible range of acoustic and amplified music and performance to a mid-sized venue. The exterior will reflect the surrounding neoclassical design of the New Town and will open up an undiscovered area of the city centre, linking the St James Quarter, St Andrew Square and the Register Lanes and contributing to the regeneration of the area.
The redesigned building will house:
1000 capacity auditorium with the capacity for live streaming, digital capture and broadcasting
flexible multi-purpose rooms for education, conferencing and hospitality
foyer with informal opportunity for performance
café/bar with indoor and outdoor seating
The new building will be the permanent home of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and will also be used by the Festival.The promise is that a new building like this will strengthen Edinburgh as a festival city and it will be the main location for National Youth Choir Of Scotland as well as an educational hub.
Councillors listened to a long presentation earlier on Wednesday, voting seven to three in favour of the new concert hall, and heard that this site lies adjacent to city centre bars and restaurants with good public transport and active travel links.
Cllr Chas Booth asked about the way that HGVs would access the site which will have removable bollards, and also enquired about the way vehicles will use the semi circle in front of the Royal Bank of Scotland building at Dundas House. Planning officers confirmed there will be no need for the entrance gates to be widened outside the bank, although a dropped kerb will require to be formed. It was confirmed that anyone bringing HGVs onto the site will require consent of Edinburgh Trams, but that any manoeuvring would be carried out within the site itself with the help of a banksman. Vehicles will enter and exit facing forwards. Council officers said that any large vehicle movements such as trucks to bring in orchestral equipment, are envisaged by transport officers taking place early in the morning.
Cllr Jim Campbell queried the number of HGVs which would access the site, noting it is essentially a pedestrian area and asked if Health and Safety Executive had been contacted. Planning officers that would be a matter for the applicant.
Cllr Booth asked about cycle parking – 20 spaces for visitors and 10 secured cycle spaces for those who work there – with some be provided off site. He asked: “How can that be fit for purpose?” The planning officer confirmed there are five secure covered racks within the site, and 150 cycle spaces at St James Quarter. Cycle racks will be provided at the main entrance to the concert hall.
Neighbouring proprietor, Anthony Jack, said he did not object to the proposal, despite the fact that it will block light from his basement home. However, he expressed his concerns about the A listed tenement where he lives. He said: “I am concerned with the noise assessment – noise will leak out of the open north facing loading bay. It seems to underestimate the number of people who might congregate around the venue.” He also explained that there is already some noise from the temporary Bar Hutte outside St James Quarter.
Another neighbour, Miss Anderson who lives in St James Square objected to the scheme, asking if the council still had a skyline policy, saying it was already ruined it with the W Hotel. She commented that from Elder Street to James Craig Walk is no longer a green area, although originally the area around Dundas House was planned to be a garden. She explained that there are already cracks in the building where she lives. She said: “The area is only 10 yards wide yet there are plans to run events all year round. This is not the correct site for this cultural venue.”
Referring to the fact that the CEO of Edinburgh International Festival has announced he will leave at the end of the festival in 2022, she exclaimed: “Fergus Linehan will soon be long gone!”
Ms Anderson said: “The site is too constrained. Everything is going to be so enormous on such a small site. The only thing they can do is build up. They have got rid of the viewing platform and some of the windows since the last plans, but basically these are small amendments. One wonders if our building is just in the way. We have a plaque on the wall which was put there 30 years ago but there is no protection for us. Find another site which is much larger with gardens around it which people could enjoy. The whole thing is ridiculous.” She also said she is a regular at the Queen’s Hall where concerts are regularly only partly full, and she worries that the hall will lose out to the new venue.
.
Gavin Reid, CEO of Scottish Chamber Orchestra and co-chair of IMPACT Scotland said: “Today’s approval is tremendous news for the City and turns the ambition for a world-class centre for music and performance, into a reality. The Dunard Centre will become the new home of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and will be transformational. A stunning auditorium offering the very best in modern acoustics and boasting state of the art digital broadcast facilities will allow us to dream big, expand our repertoire, collaborate with ever more composers and artists, present our work innovatively, courageously and flexibly all with a new-found sense of adventure and ambition, always seeking to reach more and more people.”
Sir David Chipperfield, Principal, David Chipperfield Architects, said: “Throughout the process of developing the design of the Dunard Centre we have embraced both the qualities and the challenges of working with such an extraordinary site. Embedded in the dense area of the Registry Lanes and also on the grand civic axis with Dundas House, the project marks the pivoting point between the New Town and St. James Quarter. Our ambition is to create a building of distinction that is respectful of its complex context while establishing a significant new cultural destination and place in this wonderful city.”
The Trustees of the Dunard Fund said: “Dunard Fund’s Trustees are delighted to be major funders of this once-in-a-lifetime development of a world-class venue for rehearsal and performance of music, dance, theatre and lectures of all genres in the very heart of Edinburgh, thus cementing Scotland’s reputation on the international stage.”
Consultants Nagata Acoustics have been working with David Chipperfield Architects on the auditorium design, which will welcome acclaimed UK and international musicians from the worlds of classical, traditional, jazz, pop, world and folk music.
Nagata’s previous high-profile projects include the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, the Philharmonie de Paris and Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, all venues renowned for their rich and immersive sound. David Chipperfield Architects have made their name around the world working on historic renovations and designing contemporary buildings including projects in UNESCO world heritage sites, such as the Neues Museum and James-Simon-Galerie on Berlin’s Museum Island, and the Procuratie Vecchie on St. Mark’s Square in Venice.
SNOW MOTION: a programme of live performance from Dance Base
With festive cheer starting to build as 2021 draws to a close, Dance Base celebrates all things dance by hosting a new showcase, SNOW MOTION: three evenings of live performance back in the glorious Studio 1 space.
This December, Dance Base is delighted to welcome a fantastic array of dance artists from across Scotland to bring their work back to the stage and to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Dance Base making its home in the Grassmarket building. Each artist joining the company has a deep connection to the Company having developed work with Dance Base over the years through residencies, Festival performances and sharings.
Dance Base Snow Motion
This new showcase also marks the first major Dance Base project for the company’s new Artistic Director, Tony Mills, which is set to showcase his bold new vision for the organisation.
With a different programme each evening, there is truly something for everyone, from playful takes on office life, to lyrical explorations of an enchanted Hebridean world, to a delightful tale about food (and being eaten!) for younger audiences.
Featuring new and reimagined performances by Bridie Gane, Jen Wren, Kirsten Newell, Mamoru Iriguchi, Taylor Han and Tess Letham, SNOW MOTION celebrates storytelling and connection, showcasing an array of live music, physical theatre, spoken word and contemporary and traditional dance. Click here for more information on each performance.
SNOW MOTION is a celebration of Dance Base in its 20th year in the Grassmarket. As well as featuring artists connected to the organisation, it will also showcase the organisation’s history, and hugely popular programme of dance classes. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early and take part in a fun and uplifting dance class suitable for all levels.
A bar will be set up so if a class doesn’t appeal, there’s also the chance to chat with friends over some festive drinks and follow Dance Base’s history with a brand-new exhibition display in the building.
SNOW MOTION is an evening for us to come together again, raise a glass to all that has been, get in the Christmas mood, and – most importantly – dance!
Dance Base Snow Motion
This event has been made possible thanks to support from Creative Scotland and funding from Scottish Government through the Performing Arts Venue Relief Fund.
Clan burned by Flames
Glasgow Clan, sponsored by Aspray Glasgow West, found red-hot Guildford Flames too hot to handle as the Scots skidded to a second Elite League defeat in three games.
The victory takes the Surrey-based combine to top spot in the ten-strong Premier Sports Elite League table by a point over long-time pace-setters Sheffield Steelers and the home side started well, bagging two goals in the opening session.
Ian Watters netted after 13 minutes and Robert Lachowicz added the second five minutes later. John Dunbar made it 3-0 six minutes after that but Clan re-grouped and Colton Yellow Horn opened their account unassisted in the 39th minute.
The visitors claimed their second five minutes later when Brock Beukeboom netted assisted by Yellow Horn to put Guildford under real pressure for the first time, but Ian Watters steadied home nerves with a fourth after 49 minutes.
Elite League: Guildford Flames 4, Glasgow Clan 2
PICTURE: Matt Haywood who had two shots on goal against Guildford
Reload document 
Open in new tab 
