Stellar Monarchs have completed their 2025 team with the signing of Oskar Polis who makes his debut in British racing having competed in the Polish league for more than a decade.

The 28-year-old Pole sees this as an exciting challenge but he has been a regular in the heat leader birth in recent years in the Polish National League and appeared in the Polish Ekstraliga 2 and Swedish Bauhaus-Ligan – Sweden’s top league – in 2024.

He will also race for Opole in the Polish National League and Vargarna in the Bahaus-Ligan in 2025 and Stellar Monarchs’ co-promoter, John Campbell, admitted he had worked hard to complete the team.

“I have methodically put the pieces in place and we are thrilled to welcome Oskar to the Monarchs to begin his journey in British Speedway.

“He is an accomplished performer, averaging over eight points in the Polish National League for many seasons, and he will join us on a 6.00 average.”

Polis also has experience racing on the continent and there is a wonderful balance to the side which will see us have a powerful reserve throughout the season with strength throughout the team.”

For the record, Monarchs will start this season in the Cab Direct Championship with Justin Sedgmen, Victor Palovaara, Jonatan Grahn, Kye Thomson, Paco Castagna, Max James and Oskar Polis.

Hearts Standard say that the Tynecastle club have been granted a work permit for new signing Elton Kabangu and the newspaper reports that the striker could be in line to face struggling Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Sunday (15.00).

The 26-year-old, Belgian-born winger is on loan from Belgian Pro League club Royal Union Saint-Gilloise and the 5ft 10in forward has an initial deal until the end of this season.

He began his youth career with Gent before moving on loan to Dutch outfit, FC Eindhoven, claiming 19 goals in 789 appearances as well as setting up another 20 strikes.

Dutch club Willem II was his next stop and he claimed 16 goals before Union SG moved in and he was part of the squad which missed out on the title by a point. They qualified for the Champions League and also won the Belgian Cup while he was there.

He told Hearts official website: “I’m a hungry guy. I run for the team, I work for the team, I like to score and like to assist.

“I want to be important for the team, to give my best.”

Neil Critchley, Hearts’ head coach, has made no secret of his desire to strengthen up-front and believes the experience of playing in the leading leagues in Holland and Belgium will benefit the newcomer.

Critchley told Hearts official website: “I know how hungry he is to come and be a success at Tynecastle.”

The Dons have signed Danish winger Jeppe Okkels on loan from English side Preston North End and the 25-year-old rejoins manager, Jimmy Thelin, at Pittodrie. Okkels played for Thelin for three seasons at Elfsborg,

He is Aberdeen’s first signing of the winter window and he arrives after a form slump at Pittodrie but the Dons are still fourth in the William Hill Premiership table with 34 points from 21 games after a blistering start to the season.

Hearts are second bottom of the 12-strong league with 23 points from 22 outings but have recorded thee wins and a draw in their last four games. Aberdeen have lost their last five including a 2-0 defeat at Fir Park against Motherwell.

Lothians-based Eryk Janik won the junior section in one of Britain’s biggest winter sea fishing competitions at the first attempt with a little help from an angling buddy.

The talented teenager had to get up at 5am and leave Edinburgh just after 6am to be in time to register for the 47^th Amble Open on the Northumberland Coast last Sunday.

But the Scottish junior international, who lives in Leith, weighed in with 3lb 5oz to win £75 and a Limitless 4.5m competition sea fishing rod.

He thanked Edinburgh chef, William Stafford, for driving him south and admitted conditions were very rough for the 441 entrants with some “crazy” waves on the rock marks and, for 90 per cent of the match, it was heavy rain.

Boundaries were Seahouses Harbour to Cambois Pier, excluding piers and rivers, for the four-hour match and Eryk said: “I fished off a beach not far from the registration point looking for flounder.

“I caught four and ended up with a bag of 3.5lb. The bait was mostly mackerel, bluey and ragworm.”

It was a late decision to travel and he is now glad he made the journey. The youngster added: “I went up at the last minute with Willie (Stafford) and he fished a separate mark for cod. It was my first time fishing in Northumberland and, indeed, England.”

Neil Cutler from Tyneside, who fishes regularly in Scottish-based competitions, also featured in the prize list.

PRIZE GUY: Eryk Janik (left) with Jimmy French, one of the Amble Open organisers. Picture courtesty of Amble Open organising committee

Hibs have paid tribute to former director, Brian Houston, who has sadly died following an illness, aged 76.

A statement on the Club’s website reads:

“In more than a decade at the Club he supported from boyhood, Brian personified the definition of integrity provided by the writer CS Lewis – “doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

“Brian consistently supported the executive leadership at the Club, while happily providing robust, but ever-constructive, challenge within Board meetings. His family was always his top priority, but he would certainly name May 21st, 2016, as one of his happiest days. In other words, he was a thoroughly decent man and a proud and lifelong Hibernian fan.

“He enjoyed a highly successful career in business, rising to become the European Chief Executive of a global management consultancy, where he specialised in change management. Yet his preference was always to be viewed as what Einstein called “a man of value,” who would work for the betterment of the club and the community it served, and whose deeds matched his words.

“For six years he was Chairman of NHS Lothian – working tirelessly and well beyond his contracted hours to support and champion the NHS staff and service of which he was a great admirer. He was less in awe of the service’s political masters, with whom he had a difficult relationship. Tellingly, he was described as “a fantastic chairman” by former NHS Lothian Chief Executive Tim Davison, and he is still held in high esteem by those who run our local health service.

“Memorably, two of his great interests came together when he ran 11K to Hampden for the Scottish Cup Final in 2021 to raise funds for Edinburgh & Lothians Health Foundation and Hibernian FC’s groundbreaking pandemic partnership, saying “I’m only 72, it should be a doddle.”

“He was generously supported in his successful effort by fans who recognised in Brian one of their own. In the words of Hibs’ legend Eddie Turnbull “there’s class, there’s first class, and then there’s Hibs class.”

“Brian is survived by his wife and family. Our thoughts and sympathies are with them.”

Portobello Beach will be the first venue for the New Year sea fishing shore league which starts on Friday, January 10, with six other matches to follow.

Registration is from 6pm to 6.15pm at the Bridge Street car park and the Sat Nav code is EH15 1TG.

Organiser Ian Campbell has confirmed that Match Two will be at Newhaven West on January 17 with registration from 6pm to 6.15pm at Western Harbour Breakwater EH6 6PA with the third event on January 31 at Newhaven (East) with registration from 6pm to 6.15pm at Western Harbour View EH6 6PG.

Joppa hosts the fourth match on February 7 with registration from 6pm to 6.15pm at Promenade View EH15 2ES and Match Five is at Seafield on February 21. Registration is again from 6pm to 6.15pm at Marine Esplanade EH6 7DP.

Newhaven (West) hosts the penultimate match on March 14 and registration is from 6pm to 6.15pm at Western Harbour Breakwater EH6 6PA with the final match at Newhaven (East) on March 28 with registration from 6pm to 6.15pm at Western Harbour View EH6 6PG.

Fishing at all venues is from 7pm to 10pm and it is pre-booking only. Names are now being taken for March One of the series sponsored by The Edinburgh Angling Centre, The Fishing Megastore and Cox & Rawle, and they can be added on the Scottish Shore Angling Match Group social media page.

NIGHT FISHING: Portobello Beach taken during a previous series of the winter league by Nigel Duncan

Johnny Curran, has a clear week to prepare for the visit of arch rivals, Dundee Stars, to Kirkcaldy on Saturday (19.15).

And Fife Flyers’ interim head coach he takes positives from the weekend double-header, including the performance of new signing, Charles-Antoine Paiement.

The 25-year-old Canadian forward made his debut in the narrow defeat by Coventry Blaze at Kirkcaldy last Saturday and the Quebec-born winger opened his account in the defeat at Guildford Flames 24-hours later.

The Great Britain international said: “He’s (Charles) looking good for us. Skates well, lots of skill and he will give us much-needed depth once we are at a full roster.”

The fallout from the Elite League skirmishes at the weekend means that Fife Flyers now have a 15-point gap between them and second-bottom Manchester Storm in the standings.

Fife’s failure to earn any reward from games against Coventry Blaze (a 3-1 home defeat) and at Guildford Flames (a 7-1 reverse) means they remain on six points from 26 fixtures with Storm above them on 21 points having played a game less, two of their points coming in a 4-3 road win at Dundee Stars on Saturday.

Dundee occupy the eighth and final play-off spot with 22 points from 29 starts with Glasgow Clan seventh on 24 points from 26 outings.

Playcaller Curran was disappointed at the margin of the scoreline at sixth-placed Guildford, despite leading with an early goal after 3min 13sec from Paiement from a Ryan Foss pass, and he added: “We need to start believing how good we can be.”

Curran, who is being assisted by Todd Dutiaume, a former head coach at Kirkcaldy, stressed the need to execute on the chances created and said: “I thought we deserved to be in a closer game. It just shows how fragile we are and how we still turn off at times.”   

He still believes Fife have more to show as a team but stressed that changes will not happen overnight.

After Dundee’s visit on Saturday the men from The Fife Ice Arena travel to Sheffield Steelers on Sunday (16.00) for a joust against one of the big budget teams, and a side thirsting for revenge after their shock 5-3 reverse at Kirkcaldy on December 1.

The Yorkshire side, who entertain Coventry on Saturday (19.00), are third in the table with 34 points from 26 games, three adrift of second-placed Belfast Giants, who have played the same number of fixtures, and six behind long-time, pace-setters Cardiff Devils who have played 28 games to collect 40 points.  

ACTION: Guildford Flames v Fife Flyers captured by John Unwin and courtesy of the Elite League

Hibs have announced the installation of new branded corner flags at Easter Road, which have kindly been provided by the Hibernian Supporters Association. 

These new corner flags will each feature the Hibernian FC Club crest and were displayed for the first time during the William Hill Premiership match with Rangers on Sunday 5 January 2025. 

Hibernian Supporters Association (HSA) have kindly donated the new flags to the Club as a gesture of goodwill on the 150th anniversary year of Hibernian FC. 

This furthers Hibernian Supporter’s Association’s commitment to the Club, who are title sponsors of the 10 Second Challenge experience on matchdays and the player sponsors of First Team duo Junior Hoilett and Nicky Cadden. 

Brian Penman, Chairman of the HSA commented: “To mark the beginning of our 150th anniversary year, everyone at the Hibernian Supporters Association is delighted to be able to present these corner flags to the Club, ensuring the spirit and identity of the Hibernian family is present in every corner of Easter Road.” 

Hibernian FC Chief Executive, Ben Kensell added: “We are thankful for Hibernian Supporters Association continued support this season and for this donation. 2025 is a really exciting year for the Football Club and we are all looking forward to celebrating our 150th anniversary when it comes in the summer.” 

Head Groundsman at Hibernian FC, Stevie Thomas, added: “We are extremely grateful to Brian and the team at the HSA for their support in getting these flags in place for 2025. 

“The grounds staff and I are all about attention to detail and we are always looking for new ways to promote the Club, so to have the Hibernian FC logo present on the corner flags is a great addition for us as we embark upon our 150th anniversary year.” 

Angus Halliday, 14, from the Murrayfield club, was a star local performer when the Edinburgh Table Tennis Open took place at Bathgate Academy over the weekend.

Not only did Angus lift the Band 2 singles with a £70 prize he also won the under-23 singles and was runner- up in the under-15 sing.

The main events were won by players from Dumfries and Aberdeen. The men’s singles winner was Danny Bajwa (Dumfries) and the Women’s singles winner was Ilona Obst-Wojcicka (Aberdeen).

In more good news for the Murrayfield club Anne Chan, 12, and Chole Lee, 8, finished first and fourth respectively as well as winning the girls doubles at the Scottish Primary Schools Championship and have qualified to represent Scotland in the British Primary School Championships in Cardiff in April.

The girls are pictured with coach, Gordon Muir.

• Entries are now open for the Edinburgh Championships due to be held at Royal High School, Barnton, on Sunday 19 January.

Three unexploded bombs dropped during a German raid in 1940 remain buried under Edinburgh streets, a fascinating police archive of wartime bombing raids has revealed.

Official reports on the death and destruction caused over a four year period and sent to the city authorities and the War Office, including crime scene police photographs, will go on display in a special exhibition from 1 May at the Edinburgh Central Library and will feature in a series of lectures.

Details contained in the valuable archive were known only to a small circle of officials due to war time news reporting restrictions, but it gives a unique insight into how the city dealt with up to 15 bombing raids over Edinburgh and Leith from 1939 to 1942.

The archive had been passed to Edinburgh Lothian & Borders Police Historical Society which will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of WW2 with the exhibition, a number of lectures and publication of a book.

Retired police chief, Tom Wood, said the incidents just remained in “living memory” of people who experienced the bombings and the society was keen to hear from victims, relatives, friends and neighbours who remember them, so that an oral history could be collected.

He said: “The archive is a collection of the usual tragedy, comedy and farce and is an important and fascinating history of this extremely dangerous time, which was at the peak of the Battle of Britain and when German invasion was thought to be imminent.
“There will be some people who will still remember this dark episode and we would really like to hear from them so that we can obtain first hand their memories. To this day, few people know about the extent of bombing over Edinburgh and sadly there is no memorial to the 19 people who lost their lives.”

In an early morning raid on 4 August, 1940, five bombs were dropped over Portobello, all which failed to explode. Two which landed in Abercorn Park and were 100lb or 150lb high explosive bombs were later recovered by soldiers from the Royal Engineers and detonated in King’s Park.

But three other shells which landed in gardens in Abercorn Terrace and Argyle Crescent and on the street at Mount Lodge Place were more difficult to recover because of the soft sandy soil common in Portobello.

The Chief Constable’s report states: “Digging and pumping continued with a view of uplifting the other three, but without success and it was decided to leave them. They were then at depth of about 30 feet. Holes filled with 3ft. of concrete covered with earth. At 09.00 of 8th August the barricades were removed, Military withdrawn, and evacuees returned.”

One of the most tragic incidents happened on 29 September, 1940, at 27 Crewe Place in Drylaw, when five-year-old Ronald McArthur and his seven-year-old sister Morag were killed in a raid which injured 14 others, seven seriously who were detained at the Western General Hospital.

And the official report reveals that the siblings and other victims may have avoided death and injury if air raid sirens has been sounded earlier, giving them time to take refuge in an “Anderson” bomb shelter – which was later found to be undamaged.

The policy at that time was to delay air raid warnings so as not to disrupt industrial production. The archive records: “Following on from this raid a strong demand developed amongst the public and in the press for more frequent use of the siren. Attack has usually taken place before the sirens have sounded, as in this case, and it was alleged that if warning had been given in time the two children and perhaps all the others, would have been in their shelters and consequently safe.”

But the plea fell on deaf ears: “A meeting of Divisional Wardens at Leith expressed strong views to this effect and a report by the Divisional Adjutant embodying these views was sent to Senior Regional Officer Major R. Barclay-Brown. He rejected the idea of making any more frequent use of the sirens.”

Tom Wood added: “We would especially like to hear from any of the McArthur family of Crewe Place. The authorities did in fact change their policy around the earlier use of air raid sirens but sadly that came too late for the McArthur children whose lives may have otherwise been saved.”

One famous incident featured in the archive became the stuff of legend after the Portobello home of the then Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Sir Henry Steele, was allegedly “strafed” by German war planes. It was claimed a mirror on the Lady Provost’s dressing table had been shattered by German machine gun bullets but the truth is the culprits may have been based closer to home.

A photograph of the shattered mirror is in the archive and Tom Wood added: “It is highly unlikely a German bomber was strafing residential homes in Portobello and would be more concerned about the Spitfires on its tail in hot pursuit. The propaganda at that time would much rather have it that ‘the Hun’ was attacking innocent civilians rather than a case of wayward friendly fire from the RAF or our own air defence crews.

“In fact, a congratulatory letter from the Chief Constable to the officer in charge of air defence after two German aircraft were shot down, effectively says ‘well done chaps, but can I just remind you that if you are firing due south from the River Forth – what goes up must come down. Have care’.”

There are plans to publish a book, “The Bombing of Edinburgh and Leith”, which will capture the contents of the archive and commemorate the 19 people who died in the various wartime raids and those injured.

• The exhibition at Central Library, George IV Bridge, will take place from 1 May-30 September. The first lecture, at the City Art Gallery on 30 May, is already fully booked but more will be announced in due course.
For anyone who has memories of the bombing raids and wants to get in touch please contact sec.elbphs@gmail.com

Barratt Homes East Scotland will welcome prospective buyers to Bangour Village, West Lothian next month. 

Built on the grounds of former Bangour Hospital at Dechmont, the regeneration of the site is being carried out by a variety of housebuilders, including Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes which will join in May. 

Earlier this year, Ambassador Group finalised the sale of 14.55 acres of land to Barratt Homes for the development of 179 private residences. The first phase of properties will be available to reserve from February 2025 and includes three and four-bed homes. 

These new homes will become part of the larger Bangour Village Estate, an ambitious redevelopment nestled in 215 acres of woodland. In total, the project aims to introduce up to 998 energy-efficient homes that will benefit from excellent transport links to Edinburgh and Glasgow. 

Once completed, the brand-new community will have a range of amenities including a primary school, nursery, playing fields, a commercial hub comprising a supermarket, café/restaurant, and expansive woodland that has been preserved. 

Lorraine Paterson, Sales Director at Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “As locals will know, the Bangour site is cherished within the community for its scenic beauty and rich heritage. We’ve taken care at every opportunity when designing and planning quality homes on the grounds, making sure properties reflect the needs of families, couples and individuals, while being inspired by the spacious tranquility of Bangour. By working with Ambassador Group and other housebuilders, we hope to see the site reborn as a place to live and thrive.” 

https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/dev002785-barratt-@-bangour-village/ 

https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/scotland-east/ 

Eighteen brave souls took to the waters of the Lake of Menteith on New Year’s Day as part of a “Loony Dook”.

Guests from as far afield as Devon and Australia, stayed at the Hotel to enjoy a traditional Scottish Hogmanay in the Trossachs. Many, who also had Christmas at the Hotel, are members of Karma Club, an exciting new travel and lifestyle concept that gives its members exclusive access to a worldwide collection of boutique luxury resorts, eateries, spas, events and destination experiences. It’s a unique opportunity to sample Karma Group’s international portfolio with a wealth of benefits.

Throughout December, Karma Lake of Menteith had offered a varied Twelve Days of Karma Christmas, with festive events and happenings, from Christmas Wreath making to cheese and wine showcases, to winter walks, open to everyone, not just hotel residents.

It also included entertainment from local trad musicians who have become Karma Lake of Menteith favourites, performing on regular live music nights .

“We’re delighted that we adhered to the tradition of a bracing cold water dook on New Year’s Day morning – the water was not as cold as we expected,” said Operations Director at Karma Lake of Menteith, Joshua Ford, who also took the water himself. “We quickly warmed up afterwards with some hot drinks. The feedback on this experience was extremely positive from our guests. For many, it was the first time they had taken part in a traditional Scottish Hogmanay, and let’s just say they loved it from start to finish, especially our wide choice of Drams.”

Commenting on the three year anniversary of Karma Group’s ownership of the Hotel, Joshua said: “We’re delighted to have been here at the Port of Menteith for three years now. It was the best decision to acquire this property and make it part of the Karma portfolio so that guests from all over the world can discover the delights of the Trossachs – Scotland is a huge draw for them!

“We enjoyed full occupancy over the festive period.”

 “It’s onwards now, into January, when the water of life will once again be in the spotlight through our famous Malt Vault as we approach Burns Night,” finished Joshua. “We also have some special treats lined up for Valentine’s Day.”

Further details https://karmagroup.com/find-destination/karma-resorts/karma-lake-of-menteith/

The Shelter charity shop made more than £22,000 in just over two days at the start of its 22nd annual January sale of designer brands and rare collectibles.

The Stockbridge shop made more than £17,300 on the first day of its annual week-long sale on Friday – a new record sum for a single day – after shoppers queued for up to three hours for bargains. Sales had topped £22,290 by Sunday morning.

The homelessness charity’s Stockbridge shop has become famous for its annual January sale, which has run for one week in early January each year since 2003.

It includes the “most exciting and intriguing items” including designer labels, rare books, vintage jewellery, classic toys, vinyl records and ornaments, donated by the public in recent months and stashed away by staff.

This year, some of the most expensive items sold include a rare copy of Charles Dickens’ novel A Christmas Carol, priced at £500, a cream coloured Chanel suit for £150 and a little black dress by Vivienne Westwood that was snapped up for £80.

Around 40 people waited in line for the opening on Friday, resulting in over £4000 of sales within the first half hour, and over £8500 by lunchtime.

Sales hit a new record of £17,300 on the first day, and soared past the £22,000 mark during the weekend.

One customer spent £1,916 on a pile of books including the rare fourth edition Dickens as well as a late 16th century tome in Latin for £400 and a range of hard backs signed by David Attenborough, priced at £20-30 each.

Meanwhile, other customers snapped up £500 worth of 1920s-30s amber bead costume jewellery and designer labels including Gucci, Chanel, Burberry and Ralph Lauren.

An extravagantly dressed Barbie doll by designer Bob Mackie and a rare 1858 copy of Emily Bronte’s classic novel Wuthering Heights — both with three figure price tags — remain among hundreds of bargains still on the shelves.

Pete Jew, the Stockbridge shop’s manager, said: “It’s only possible because of the generosity of our customers and supporters. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed.

“It’s not just the big ticket items but hundreds of smaller things too, which make up the total.

The shop has been a fixture in Edinburgh’s Raeburn Place since 1981.

The annual New Year sale of donated designer items started in 2003 and raises vital funds for Shelter Scotland’s work to help homeless and badly housed households across Scotland.

Alison Watson, director of Shelter Scotland, said: “Over the last 22 years, the January Stockbridge launch has become a much-anticipated highlight for bargain hunters and collectors in Edinburgh and beyond, so it was no surprise to see people queuing before we’d even opened.

“As well as offering an exciting range of items, the event raises crucial funds for Shelter Scotland’s fight against homelessness. It’s inspiring to see its enduring popularity and record-breaking success year after year.”

Neil Critchley says he is looking for a performance and a result from games in the top flight of Scottish football and, reflecting on the 1-0 success at Tannadice, he said: “I felt we had both.”

Hearts visited, he said, an in-form team, sitting third in the William Hill Premiership table, and he added: “I thought we were the better team, particularly in the first-half, and we scored a really good goal, then we had to fight and scrap it out.

“Craig (Gordon) did not have a save to make in the whole game until right at the death. I felt we protected the goal brilliantly well, first contact, second contact being blocked, and getting bodies around the ball.

“Back-to-back victories 1-0, great scoreline, clean sheets and producing a little more quality at the other end of the pitch.”

The coach did admit that he would have liked to have seen the Jambos pass the ball better in the second-half, and making more use of it, but added: “Overall, it was a really good team performance away from home. I felt we deserved to win the game.”

Incidentally, The Jam Tarts social media site has published an interesting statistic.

It shows the form table since the Englishman became head coach. Hearts are fourth in the table behind, Celtic, Rangers and Dundee United. Hibs, incidentally, are in fifth.

PICTURE: Neil Critchley on the touchline captured by Thomas Brown

Police in Midlothian have arrested a 45-year-old man following the theft of a charity tin from premises in John Street Penicuik. 

The theft took place during a break in sometime between Thursday 2 and Friday 3 January. 

Officers said that the man will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court in the future.  

“At 9.10am on Friday, 3 January, 2025 officers received reports of a break-in and theft at a charity’s premises in John Street, Penicuik.  

“A charity tin and a sum of money was reported to have been stolen sometime between Thursday, 2 January, 2025 and Friday, 3 January, 2025. 

“A 45-year-old was arrested and charged in connection. 

“He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.” 

The owner of woodland on the edge of a community has hit back after he was refused permission to fence in nearly 100 metres of it despite a stone wall doing to same on the other side of the road.

An application by the owners of a cottage at Carberry, Whitecraig, in East Lothian, to replace an existing wire fence with a six ft high timber one, was rejected by planners who said it would create a ‘harmfully imposing feature’ at the entrance to the community.

However in an appeal to the council’s Local Review Body agents for the Shearers, who own the site, say the suggestion it is intrusive when “on the opposite side of the road a tall stone wall bounds the woodland that exists there” is wrong.

And they say claims by planning officers that the fence would result in the loss of trees is not correct.

They say: “The applicant owns this woodland and the reason for the fencing is to safeguard it as it forms an important screen for his property considering to the rear of his property is the waste and recycling centre and the A6124 is a main route for lorries travelling to this commercial facility.

“The officer and the councils landscape officer have stated that the fence will result in the loss of, or damage to a number of existing trees and yet offer no evidence to back this up, this is merely a personal opinion based without facts.

“The verge will need tidied up and overgrown scrub removed along with
the existing fence (or what remains of it) however the whole point of this fence being erected is to safeguard this woodland area not to destroy it by removing or damaging trees.”

Rejecting the original planning application for the 95-metre long fence planners said the timber fence was ‘inappropriate’ in the surrounding landscape.

They said: “The proposed length of fencing would appear as a visually prominent and harmfully imposing feature to the detriment of the character and appearance of the woodland area.

“By virtue of its extent, height, solid form and its exposed roadside position, the proposed length of fencing would appear as a harmfully dominant and intrusive feature within its woodland setting which would detract from the character and appearance of the landscape of the area.”

The appeal will be heard by the council’s Local Review Body later this month.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Police Scotland has launched the second phase of a national advertising campaign with TV, radio and digital advertising to recruit police officers across the country. 

The campaign encourages potential candidates to consider the transferable skills they can bring to the role of police officer and explains why policing is a job like no other. 

The first phase of the national recruitment campaign, which launched in September 2024, featured social media video adverts with real officers telling the story of their journey into the policing. 

In November 2024 Police Scotland officer numbers increased to 16,603. Continued recruitment will help the Service to maintain this number.  

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “The latest campaign messaging focuses on the transferable skills prospective candidates can bring to policing with the key message: the skills you need to be a police officer might be the ones you already have. 

“If you want to learn more about the job of a police officer, or if you’re ready for a job like no other, apply via the Police Scotland website.” 

Detectives are appealing for information following a serious assault which took place around 7.25pm on Saturday, 4 January, outside a property on Lower Bathville in Armadale.

A 38-year-old man was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he remains in serious condition.

Enquiries so far suggest two men, dressed all in black and wearing balaclavas, were seen in the area at the time. They were later seen getting into a white car, which travelled west along Lower Bathville.

Detective Sergeant Keith Sinclair said: “Our enquiries to establish the full circumstances of this incident are ongoing, and we are asking anyone with information that may assist to come forward.

“Similarly, if you have CCTV, ring doorbell or dash-cam footage, please review it and share anything that might assist us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 2706 of Saturday, 4 January, 2025. Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

Police are pursuing positive lines of enquiries to trace two men suspected of using dogs to hunt wild animals in East Lothian. 

On Sunday 5th January 2024, officers from the East Lothian Community Action Team (ELCAT) took part in a ‘Wildlife Crime Day of Action’.  

Whilst conducting rural patrols in the North Berwick area, they observed the two males who made off after being spotted. 

Officers traced their vehicle a short distance away, which was seized under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.  

Enquiries into the incident are on-going. 

The Varna International Ballet and Orchestra return to the UK after their debut tour in 2023. 

The company will visit 20 venues around the UK with classics Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet, and will be performing at theEdinburgh Playhouse from Thu 16 – Sat 18 January 2025.

Performances are suitable for all the family (no under threes permitted in the venue) and are a treat for ballet novices and balletomanes alike. 

The Nutcracker is an enchanting story set on Christmas Eve. When midnight strikes, we are swept away to a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems. 

Often considered the greatest romantic ballet of all time, Swan Lake is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. 

Shakespeare’s tale of primal passion and timeless tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, is an emotionally-charged and unmissable ballet.

Founded in 1947 and renowned for its award-winning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet, Varna International Ballet has been delighting audiences for decades at home in Bulgaria and abroad with performances of the highest quality. 

EDINBURGH Playhouse
atgtickets.com/Edinburgh
16 Jan Romeo and Juliet 7.30pm
17 Jan Swan Lake 7.30pm
18 Jan Nutcracker 2.30pm & 7.30pm

James Penrice admitted that the narrow 1-0 win over Dundee United at Tannadice was “not pretty” at times but added: “We controlled long spells of the game.”

The former Livingston and Patrick Thistle player felt the Men in Maroon defended the box well in this William Hill Premiership clash despite high-flying United “throwing everything at us”.

The match-winner, who thundered home a volley after 73 minutes to delight the 1,800 travelling fans, added: “To a man I thought we were excellent.

“The only disappointing aspect was that we did not take more of our chances. We were getting into good areas and the final ball has not been great, but luckily we put one away.”

On the goal, he modestly said: “You need to be alive in the box and I put it away.”

Penrice, recruited during the summer, admitted that Pittodrie is a difficult place to go. Hearts lost narrowly, 3-2, on their last visit on October 6, after leading 2-1, thanks to goals from Frankie Kent and Blair Spittal, but Scotland defender, Nicky Devlin and Croatian midfielder, Ante Palaversa, netted for the Dons, the game-winner coming after 88 minutes, to secure the points for the home side.

Penrice, who has been outstanding for the Jambos so far this term, admitted: “That was disappointing, and we will go there with a plan and we go trying to get three points.”

Meanwhile, tickets for Sunday’s trip to Aberdeen remain on general sale and briefs for the new home match against Kilmarnock on January 25 go on sale on January 7 at 10am. They are available on eTickets or in person at the Ticket Office.

Finally, the Player of the Month in the Hearts Standard newspaper is teenage striker, James Wilson (pictured) by Thomas Brown.

Robert Whyte Sen was smiles better after pocketing £195 for the heaviest fish in the East Fife New Year Open.

The Edinburgh-based angler brought a cod of 8lb 10oz to the scales to beat 38 other anglers in tough conditions off the Tayside coast.

One of the organisers, Arbroath-based Stewart Falconer, said a few decent fish were caught despite the conditions.

Tayside-based Kevin Lewis, team manager of the Scotland Ladies Sea Fishing squad, weighed in with the heaviest bag, six fish totalling 18lb 8oz, and he won £200.

Stuart Cresswell from Ayr was second with five fish for 12lb 5oz and he pocketed £120.

Third was Wullie Kennedy, also from Ayr with four fish for 11ln 3oz winning £70 and the boundaries for the five-hour match were Carnoustie to Ferryden.

The third leg of the winter heaviest cod league organised by Kirkcaldy-based Mike and Chris Horn is scheduled for Saturday, January 11 from Carnoustie to Ferryden Lighthouse.

More than 30 are in the league which has a prize fund so far of £350 and the heaviest fish so far has been caught by Montrose fisherman, James Duncan, a 6lb 1oz cod.

Bass Rock Shore Angling League are scheduled to host round five of their winter league on Wednesday, January 8) and secretary, James Ogilvie, asks those keen to fish to let him know.

The venue is North Berwick and it is a rover where anglers can fish their favourite mark. Registration is at the harbour between 6pm and 6.30pm with fishing from 7pm to 10pm.

A reminder that only sizeable fish should be brought to the scales.

LIBRARY PICTURE: sea fishing on Ravensheugh Beach in East Lothian by Nigel Duncan

Expanding into international markets opens up tremendous opportunities for businesses but also introduces complexities in financial management. Handling transactions in multiple currencies is one such challenge, requiring accurate conversion, compliance with varying regulations, and effective communication with clients across the globe. Multi-currency invoicing provides an efficient solution to these challenges, enabling smoother and more reliable transactions.

Allowing businesses to create and manage invoices tailored to different currencies, tools like qorp.io simplify the multi-currency invoicing process. With its intuitive features, this platform empowers users to handle global transactions seamlessly, ensuring compliance and accuracy. The ability to adapt invoices to various financial environments enhances operational efficiency and reduces potential errors.

Challenges in International Billing

Let us discuss the above-mentioned challenges in more detail. Operating on a global scale requires businesses to navigate diverse financial systems, each with its own set of rules, exchange rates, and tax requirements. One major hurdle is currency conversion, as fluctuating exchange rates can affect both pricing and profitability. Additionally, businesses must account for local taxation policies, such as VAT or GST, which vary significantly between countries.

Language and formatting differences also pose challenges. Clients may require invoices in their local language, and financial documents often need to adhere to regional conventions for dates, currencies, and numbering. These complexities increase the likelihood of errors, delays, and disputes, making efficient invoicing practices crucial.

Benefits of Multi-Currency Invoicing

Improved Accuracy in Currency Conversion

Multi-currency invoicing systems integrate real-time exchange rates, ensuring that invoice amounts are accurate and up to date. This minimizes the risk of discrepancies between the invoiced amount and the received payment, which is essential for maintaining trust and transparency in international business relationships.

Enhanced Client Convenience

Providing invoices in the client’s preferred currency simplifies the payment process and improves the overall customer experience. Clients are more likely to complete payments promptly when they are not burdened with calculating conversions or navigating unfamiliar financial terms. Multi-currency invoicing demonstrates a business’s commitment to accommodating the needs of its global clientele.

Compliance with Regional Regulations

Global transactions require strict adherence to local laws and tax regulations. Multi-currency invoicing tools often include features that help businesses incorporate necessary tax details and comply with regional requirements. This reduces the administrative burden and ensures that the business remains in good standing with international regulatory bodies.

How Multi-Currency Invoicing Facilitates Global Business

Multi-currency invoicing streamlines financial operations by integrating currency management with invoicing workflows. Automated systems generate invoices that account for real-time exchange rates and local requirements, reducing the need for manual intervention. By consolidating these processes, businesses can allocate resources more effectively and focus on their core activities.

Integration with accounting and payment systems further enhances efficiency. Many platforms enable seamless tracking of international transactions, providing businesses with valuable insights into their financial performance across different markets. These insights can inform strategic decisions, such as pricing adjustments or market expansion initiatives.

[2] 

Implementation of Multi-Currency Invoicing

Select the Right Platform

Choosing a reliable multi-currency invoicing platform is critical. Look for solutions that offer features, such as automated currency conversion, customizable templates, and integration with accounting software. There are platforms that excel in this regard, combining user-friendly design with robust functionality to support businesses in navigating the complexities of international transactions.

Customize Invoice Templates

Tailor invoice templates to meet the specific needs of each market. Include details, such as the applicable currency, exchange rate, and local tax information, to ensure clarity and compliance. Customization also extends to language and formatting preferences, which contribute to a professional and customer-centric approach.

Monitor and Optimize Processes

Regularly review the effectiveness of your multi-currency invoicing practices. Track key performance indicators, such as payment timeliness and error rates, to identify areas for improvement. Leveraging analytics tools can provide deeper insights into transaction trends and help refine strategies for managing international finances.

Final Thoughts

Multi-currency invoicing is a vital tool for businesses operating in global markets. It addresses the complexities of international transactions by ensuring accurate conversions, enhancing client convenience, and facilitating regulatory compliance. By adopting efficient invoicing solutions, companies can streamline their financial operations and establish strong foundations for sustained international success. Businesses that leverage these tools position themselves to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Hibs ‘star man’ Martin Boyle was back to his best against Rangers yesterday and almost scored a second hat trick against the Glasgow giants in a pulsating 3-3 draw. 

Boyle scored twice before Rocky grabbed a dramatic equaliser to cancel out Igamane’s hat-trick for The Gers. 

Then in time added on his curled effort from 20-yards flew inches past the post. 

Speaking to Hibs TV after the match, Boyle shared his thoughts on a pulsating 90 minutes. 

“It was chaotic – we could’ve won or lost it in the end. Every time we play Rangers here, it always seems to be a crazy game with a lot of goals.  

“It was a good test of character from the lads to fight back, we’ve got that real belief in the squad at the moment which is good – so hopefully we can keep that going. 

“We gave ourselves a platform to build on and got back into the game. We made silly mistakes in the first half and that cost us goals. But we always knew that if we got in at half-time and we were still in the game then we would have a chance.  

“We regrouped at half-time and came out in the second half and had a go – we rode our luck at times but we showed our character and got what we deserved.” 

Boyle got Hibs back in the game with a well-taken finish in the first half before stepping up to equalise from the spot on the hour mark – his seventh and eighth goals of the season.  

The Hibs forward admits after a difficult start to the season, he is now finding his best form. 

“I was in the right position at the right time today. When you play up-front with Dwight Gayle, you learn a lot from him and his positioning. Thankfully, I was in that moment for the first goal and got a snapshot away.  

“For my second, I am always confident from the spot – as a leader of this team, you need to take responsibility and step up to the plate. 

“I had an injury at the start of the season, and this season has been a bit stop-start for me. I am finally getting back to my best and I have a new lease of life up top.  

“I have the freedom to run around, which is what I do best. I always try to provide goals and assists for this Club and thankfully they are coming at the moment.” 

“Momentum is really important for us. We believe in what the Manager is doing, we are working hard in training – there are still a lot of improvements that we can make, but we are all together. You can see that on the pitch, we have the fans back on our side as we are rallying together as a group and running through walls for each other.” 

Hibs Head Coach David Gray can feel the momentum building at the club as his players battled back to earn a point in a dramatic 3-3 draw against Rangers on Sunday afternoon. 

Hamza Igamane put Rangers two goals ahead inside 20 minutes. Martin Boyle replied with two goals of his own either side of half-time to draw level before Igamane netted his hat-trick to put Rangers back ahead. 

But Hibs refused gave up and Rocky Bushiri headed in an equaliser late on to claim a much-deserved point. 

Speaking to Hibs TV after the game, Gray shared his thoughts on a ‘chaotic’ 90 minutes. 

“I think that is a good choice of word – chaotic. From a neutral point of view, I am sure it was a really good game to watch. 

“I thought we struggled in the first 20 minutes of the game, Rangers started miles better and we were a bit ‘gung-ho’ with our pressing and got that wrong. 

“But the second half was much more like us. The character, desire and effort was clear for all to see. By the end of the game, we got at least what we deserved. 

“We had to rely on our goalkeeper in the first 20 minutes to make some saves and keep us in the game. The game could’ve got away from us, but we made a change after 25 minutes to tweak our shape to make sure we stayed in the game and got through to half-time. 

“We knew the next goal in the game was hugely important. At half-time, we reminded them how quickly this game could change. 

“We got it back to 2-2 which was incredible considering the way we started the game. At that point, we created more good chances, Dwight Gayle had a header and Lewis Miller hit the post. But we were pegged back again, but we showed great desire, work-rate, and togetherness to get back level. I thought we got what we deserved from our second-half performance.” 

The result extends Hibs unbeaten run to six games – and Gray is confident his team are heading in the right direction as they enter the second half of the season. 

“You can feel the momentum building at this Club. You can feel that in the stands, the fans were right with us all game and everyone can feel that. 

“The fans can clearly see the effort that is going into our performances and the fight on the pitch. The spirit is there, it has been questioned a lot this season – but if you look from where we have been, to where we are now; we have given Rangers a two-goal head-start but we came back and got a point today which was the least we deserved. Massive credit goes to everyone involved.” 

Teenager Rosa Ross was invited to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award This is Youth celebration at Buckingham Palace, in recognition for her resilience during cancer treatment.

She was named Boundary Breaker of the Year for doing her Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award at the same time.

The 14-year-old Trinity Academy pupil was diagnosed with stage four non-Hodgkin lymphoma a year ago, just four months after beginning her bronze Duke of Edinburgh. She used the award as a focus during weeks of treatment involving chemotherapy, immunotherapy, steroids and operations. She used her Volunteer section of the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) to help organise ward activities to bring other young cancer patients together. She also offered support to those worried about hair loss.

Rosa was determined to continue singing as part of her DofE Skills section. She said: “My lungs had partially collapsed with treatment, so part of my physio was blowing bubbles to try and encourage my lungs to work. We used to sing a lot of Taylor Swift – it was the highlight of my week and really good for increasing my lung capacity. I had to have nasal oxygen and I was sleeping sitting upright as the tumour was pressing on my lungs, so it was definitely a challenge. 

“I had the mindset of, if I have to go through this horrible experience, there must be something good to come out of it. I could see how much going through cancer treatment absolutely sucks and if I could do anything to make it a tiny bit easier for the other young people, just a tiny smile or a laugh, I wanted to. It meant I could enjoy aspects of my time, while also helping others. 

“I’d support the staff by going and having a chat with any young people who were worried about losing their hair. I could give a first-hand perspective and say ‘yes it’s terrible, but when it comes back it looks like this’. I’d let them try on things like a fun pink wig and a headband that looks like hair, or my wig. I think it makes it less scary. I was losing my hair at the same time, so it felt like we were in it together. One of the kids left me a note saying thank you and signed it ‘from your new friend’ which meant a lot.

“I don’t want people to think they can’t do something just because they can’t do it like everyone else is – they might be able to work around it. By doing my DofE, I felt like I’d accomplished something, and I could come out of my time in hospital with something to show for it. I went through this horrible experience, but look what I could get out of it. I knew I wanted to carry on to the Silver Award, and I hope to go all the way to Gold one day.” 

Rosa was selected by category judges Jodie Ounsley – aka ‘Fury’ from Gladiators – and DofE Youth Ambassadors Abi and Freya, was celebrated alongside six other This is Youth winners at a star-studded event hosted by The Duke at Buckingham Palace*. They shared their stories – and afternoon tea – with His Royal Highness and this year’s This is Youth judges. 

This is Youth Boundary Breaker of the Year judge, Jodie Ounsley, said: “Rosa’s determination and resilience are among the reasons she stood out to me as this year’s Boundary Breaker of the Year winner. Receiving a cancer diagnosis is tough no matter your age and I am in complete awe of her positivity and selflessness during this time of her life.  

“Rosa’s positivity knows no bounds and to hear how that positivity, coupled with her DofE, has brought young people together, reducing isolation and providing reassurance, makes her a shining example of what This is Youth Boundary Breaker of the Year stands for. Congratulations Rosa – you are so deserving of this recognition.”  

Tills & Company, the second-hand bookshop and café in Portobello is on the market for sale.

The business on Portobello High Street was refurbished in 2023, changing the former Salvation Army premises into a shop and café for book and coffee lovers. The shop’s quiet atmosphere, along with its selection of books and specialty coffee, has made it a go to destination.

The owners have decided to sell as the result of a change in their personal circumstance, marketing the Portobello shop as a going concern, so that they can concentrate on their original bookshop in Newington.

Kate McNamara, who co-founded Tills & Company with a friend in 2023 said: “Renovating and establishing Tills & Company has been a great pleasure.

“The community in Portobello is just so lovely, and I wish we could carry on our work there. We are now looking for a new owner who can take over the running of the business, and who is able to give Tills & Company the time and focus that the space deserves. We began this business with the desire to foster literary community spaces on our high streets. The response from Portobello has only made us more sure of this – Tills & Company has become such a hub for the locals. We hope that we can find someone who appreciates these values, and that the project continues to thrive.”

There are no plans to close the business, and the Tills team is hoping to find the right new owner who can continue running it.

The business is for sale as a going concern, and so comes fully equipped and running, with a turnover of more than £230,000 per year.

The Scottish Greens have renewed their call for an Unexplained Wealth Order to be issued relating to Donald Trump’s investments in Scotland on the fourth anniversary of the riots at the US Capitol.

The party says it does not want Scotland to welcome President Trump if he visits this year, as he has promised to do. The co-leader of the Scottish Greens, Patrick Harvie, said that Donald Trump tried to block the democratic process in the US four years ago.

Mr Harvie said: “Four years ago Donald Trump was inciting rioters to storm the Capitol and block the democratic process. In the time since, he has doubled down on right wing conspiracy theories and refused to show even the slightest shred of contrition or regret.

“The thought of four more years of a racist, climate-wrecking and misogynistic Donald Trump in the White House is one that should concern us all. He is a friend of despots, demagogues and dictators and a threat to migrant communities, LGBTQ+ people and reproductive rights.

“We cannot stand aside or condone the divisive and hateful politics that he represents.

“With the prospect of Donald Trump coming to Scotland for the opening of his golf course, it is crucial that our government takes a stand for human rights, equality and the other values that Trump has done so much to oppose.

“I urge the First Minister and his colleagues to turn down any meeting requests while he is here. Political relationships with other countries are important, but those relationships should be focused on those who share civilised values and respect for basic democratic norms.”

Mr Harvie added: “Trump’s investments here in Scotland have already been cited as part of a recent criminal case in New York, which is why we have consistently called for the Scottish Government to issue an Unexplained Wealth Order to investigate his dealings.”

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar says Scotland can end the culture of wasting public money and using quangos to cover up governmental failure.

Speaking before making a New Year speech, Mr Sarwar said that Scotland must take a new direction, and claimed that the SNP had “abandoned responsibility and wrecked public services”.

He said that at the next election “we face a choice: more decline managed by the SNP, or a new direction for Scotland”.

The speech, which will be delivered on Monday at Glasgow University where Mr Sarwar studied to be a dentist, will promise an end to a culture of “jobs for the boys” where politicians evade responsibility, and tough decisions are dodged.

Highlighting the need for public sector reform to deliver value for money and better public services Mr Sarwar will highlight the explosion of quangos under the SNP.

Scotland has 131 quangos which results in a bill of more than £6.6 billion annually – and is two more than the number of MSPs in The Scottish Parliament.

The Scottish Labour leader said the party would commit to slashing their number and cost in government, putting control of public cash and delivery of key services back in politicians’ hands.

Mr Sarwar said: “Scotland needs a new direction.

“Every public service is straining under almost two decades of governmental neglect, and Scots are paying more for less.

“In short, our country is stuck and it doesn’t need to be like this.

“The SNP came to power in 2007 promising to improve lives, but instead, we’ve seen services crumble, institutions weaken, and communities left behind.

“We must squeeze value out of every penny of taxpayers’ money to deliver public services that work.

“More importantly politicians must stop making excuses and passing the buck – they must take responsibility.

“At the heart of both issues is a growing bureaucratic monster – a sprawling network of unelected public bodies that drain public money and deliver little in return.

“These so-called quangos were created to manage everything from healthcare to education, but far too often they’ve done more to complicate and obstruct than to improve services.

“Scotland spends a jaw-dropping £6.6 billion on these bodies each year. That’s money that could be better spent on improving services for the people of Scotland.

“It has created a culture that means when something goes wrong, the SNP government tries to dodge responsibility by blaming someone you’ve never heard of.

“It creates a culture where the government serves itself, not the people.

“We need a government that’s focused on delivering for the people, not a self-serving political class focused on creating jobs for the boys.

“That’s why a Scottish Labour Government will end Scotland’s quango culture and better spend your money.

“As First Minister, I would commit to cutting the red tape, reducing the number of health boards, and streamlining public bodies and pushing power and resources out to your community.

“The buck would stop with me.

“It’s time to take Scotland in a new direction. A direction where government serves the people, not the other way around.”

The draft 2025-26 Scottish Budget includes provision for funding to replace the Eye Pavilion, deliver school buildings and restore facilities at the Royal Botanic Garden.

Ahead of a speech in Edinburgh, First Minister John Swinney urged the Scottish Parliament to back the “ambitious Budget” which “delivers funding for communities the length and breadth of Scotland”.

If passed, the Budget will provide a record funding settlement for Scottish local authorities, including more than £1 billion for The City of Edinburgh Council.

It also includes £7.8 million for school buildings in the capital and up to £1.9 million to support means-tested places at St Mary’s Music School. In addition, the Budget provides an initial £5 million to begin work replacing the Edinburgh Eye Pavilion and £15.4 million for the Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh Maintenance and Biomes Programme.

The First Minister said: “This ambitious Budget delivers funding for communities the length and breadth of Scotland – from building new schools and hospitals and improving recycling facilities, to investing in cultural organisations and supporting local authorities.

“This includes investment to help ensure Edinburgh retains its place as a global centre for culture and research.

“For all this, we need the Scottish Government’s draft Budget to be passed, enabling us to renew our public services and make the most of our country’s many opportunities.

“That is why I am urging Parliament to work together to pass the Budget.”

Currie Community High School, Liberton High School and Wester Hailes High School refurbishments or rebuilding will be assisted by some of the funding.

The allocation for St Mary’s Music School will support the school’s Aided Places Scheme.

The Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh Maintenance and Biomes Programme will protect the gardens’ 13,500 plant species, including many that are endangered or extinct in their native habitats. 

“Never let the old man in.”

These words will continue to inspire Edinburgh’s Alan Bremner as he reflects on a third place in his age-group (65-69 years) at the World Ironman Championships in Hawaii.

Initially Alan was disappointed with his performance, revealing: “I’d gone out 19 days early to prepare properly for the heat and humidity and really wanted to win as it would have been the ideal way for me to finish triathlon.

“However, the more I thought about my fellow competitor’s words to me and the need to keep inspiring other older athletes the more I want to keep going.

“In addition to that I have had to understand that 2024 was a pretty good year for me in my sport.”

Indeed. For Alan, president of the David Lloyd Newhaven Harbour triathlon club, was sole qualifier for the Hawaii event from a race in Lanzarote and from there warmed up by winning the gruelling Alp d’Huez Triathlon.

There are other reasons to keep going although on return he has had to undergo delayed double hernia surgery.

Among those encountered in Hawaii were Billy Monger (former winner of the Helen Rollason Award for facing down adversity at the BBC Sports Personality Awards), who, as a top motor sport prospect, lost both legs in an accident.

Monger smashed the course record in Kona, Hawaii, for a double amputee by two hours.

Additionally there was a competitor with stage four cancer, Alan recalled.

One real highlight for Alan was a local old lady presenting him with a home made Saltire when she heard he was Scottish and no Scottish flag might be available (it was).

Less well received were a host of jellyfish stings and who knows how things might have turned out in the swim part of an event which also includes running and cycling with a bike Alan had specially flown out.

“We heard later there were sharks in the water while we were racing but at the time I was not aware,” said Alan with an element of relief, no doubt?