There is something very big happening at Leith Theatre this week. It is the first professional theatre production staged in the space in three decades, and for that reason alone you might think of going. The fact that this is an anti-war piece of theatre cabaret and it is being staged this week when we are remembering the dead of 100 years ago, only adds to its importance.

The fact that it involves those from countries who were at war with or against one another ten decades ago probably adds to its poignancy too.

This is not a theatrical piece which will appeal to everyone, but it will charm and enchant a great many of you. It is a magnum opus which careers around the theatre in a mesmerising and slightly disturbing fashion, keeping the audience on its toes. You should know that there is some nudity in the work, it is very loud at times and it can be a challenging piece to watch which you will not completely understand all the time!

One thing which struck me all the way through was the very way the actors moved whether they were on stage or on the floor of the theatre. They are all clearly very highly trained  in physical theatre, and have a particular way of moving which makes them appear in this work almost as a pack. I was in awe of their ballet-like fluidity and presence, although it is difficult to completely explain it – you will have to see it!

This work is presented by German company, Theaterlabor whose cast members are from all over Europe. Co-directed by John Paul McGroarty who lives in Leith, (that alone being an obvious reason for the play coming here), it also involves his co-director Yuri Birte Anderson from Germany, and is translated by Patrick Healy and produced by Alexandra Lort Phillips and Siegmar Schröder.

Leith Theatre is well suited to the play which at first only uses the front part of the stage, with what looks like for all the world like a sheet hung on a clothes line bisecting it.
There are fabulous projections, sometimes two different and merging projections, instead of sets, and minimal props are used apart from some chairs from time to time.

Translated from Karl Kraus’ original German, The Last Days of Mankind was written during 1914 and 1922. Each of the five acts is devoted to one of the five years of the First World War which is so much in our minds just now.

There is madness, singing, screaming and many, many words, some of which are based on contemporary sources. It appears at times to be chaotic – there are a couple of dozen actors on stage at several points. But it is all based on newspaper articles and real life.

And it relates to our real lives today with an examination of the media, the war correspondents in their day and whether they have created the news reality which we know.

MUSIC

There is music throughout, quite haunting and quite lovely music.

If somebody told you that Matt Groening the creator of the Simpsons thinks you are the best thing since sliced bread, then it might also persuade others you are pretty good. The Tiger Lillies who are appearing at Leith Theatre this week  have had that said of them, and they are more than pretty good. They are excellent, and wrap themselves into and around The Last Days of Mankind. They are Olivier award winning cabaret artists, and their Martyn Jacques composed original songs to accompany this epic work.

This work and perhaps others which will now follow it, puts Leith Theatre firmly on the map as a serious venue. Some work still needs to be done to renovate the theatre and make it fit for purpose, but the ease with which the actors accessed the first floor balcony, the floor where the audience sits, both in chairs and in a cocktail setting at tables and chairs, all mean this was the perfect venue for this production. Hopefully others will follow their lead.

According to new report produced by the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh continues to be the most prosperous UK city outside London.

The 12th annual edition of ‘Edinburgh by Numbers’, published today, provides a statistical overview of the Capital and how it compares to other UK cities in terms of People, Work, Economy, Tourism, Education, Environment, Property, Travel and Connectivity.

The report says that Edinburgh continues to attract and employ a skilled workforce with more workers in highly skilled occupations than any other UK city, including London. While the figures also show a city where businesses flourish with five-year business survival rates of new businesses higher than most other UK cities.

The Capital continues to represent 50% of Scotland’s finance and insurance Gross Value Added (GVA) output and has twice the number of people working in finance and insurance than other UK cities – even exceeding London.

Edinburgh also remains one of the most visited tourist destinations with more overseas visitors than other UK cities (outside of London) and boasts the highest hotel occupancy (averaging 83.7%). The number of rail and air passengers have both increased by over a million in the last year and the Capital has the highest satisfaction rate with public transport in Scotland.

Key facts include:

•Edinburgh continues to be a popular destination for visitors with seven of the top 10 most visited attractions in Scotland for 2017 based in the Capital.

•Hotel occupancy is highest of all UK cities – averaging 83.7% in 2017.

•The number of international air passengers travelling to and from Edinburgh Airport increased to 8.14 million in 2017, an increase of over a million on 2016.

•Around 39% of all workers are in jobs categorised as highly skilled which include: corporate managers and directors; and science, research, engineering and technology professionals.

•63.9% of those employed in 2017 were educated to degree level or above.

•Around 10% of people in employment in Edinburgh were in the finance and insurance sector. This is twice as much as the average across other UK cities, including London at 7%.

•Edinburgh has the highest satisfaction rates with public transport among other Scottish cities at 89%, compared to the Scottish average of 73.5%.

•Edinburgh has seen the second largest reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per capita between 2010 and 2016 per population out of the UK major cities.

Cllr. Adam McVey, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Once again, the findings in this report demonstrate that the capital is prosperous, growing, successful and competitive in every way against other UK cities.

“Not only are our economic and business indicators some of the strongest outside of London – in some cases better – our environmental credentials remain strong too. Average wages remain higher than other UK cities along with opportunities for higher education and, unsurprisingly, our visitor economy is stronger than ever.

“Of course, with this continuous success comes added pressure on our infrastructure and we are clear on our responsibility to respond to and manage this level of growth in terms of providing housing, transport and other frontline services – while also seeking further powers to raise additional revenues through the likes of a tourist tax.

“These latest figures demonstrate how much scope there is to continue to increase opportunities in the city for everyone. By sharing our success across our communities we can make sure the benefits of economic growth are felt right across Edinburgh.”

Depute Leader Cllr Cammy Day added: “This publication reminds us of Edinburgh’s importance to the Scottish economy and comes hot on the heels of last week’s publication of the Good Growth for Cities index which showed Edinburgh had outpaced most UK cities in economic success and wellbeing since 2008.

“The city boasts a highly educated population proving that not only do we have the right environment for starting and investing in business, we also have the right workforce to support businesses of the future.

“At the same time, we remain concerned about how we address inequality in this city and ensure that our success is shared with all citizens. Ultimately the strong partnerships between the Council, business, universities, third sector and our statutory partners make this possible.”

The figures appearing in this edition of Edinburgh by Numbers are the most up-to-date available at the time of publication.

Hibs’ on-loan goalkeeper Adam Bogdan has not ruled out the possibility of a permanent move to the club after his Liverpool contract ends.

The Hungarian international has been in fine form after a shaky start and has retained the jersey despite Ofir Marciano’s recovery from injury.

When asked whether staying at Hibs would appeal to him, the 31-year-old  “Yes, of course, as Hibs is a very appealing club and Edinburgh is fantastic.

“I have a season-long loan at Easter Road, and I’m very happy in the city and at Hibs.

“The support from the fans is great and the people at the club are fantastic.

“My contract with Liverpool finishes at the end of the season, but there is no pressure on me about where I will go next.

“I was out injured for a long time, so I want to enjoy what I’m doing and perform the best I can in every game.

“I have a mindset of enjoying my game and trying to improve, and play as many matches as possible.

“Apart from the Celtic game we haven’t lost many goals if you watch the last seven or eight matches.

“But we haven’t scored in the last three games which isn’t like us because we have been playing well and scoring a lot.

This is the hot ticket that you will want to fill somebody’s Christmas stocking with. Next summer Kylie Minogue is coming to Edinburgh Castle for one night only.

Tickets go on sale on Friday 16 November at 9.00am for the concert on 14 July 2019.

Kylie is the all time Princess of Pop and no doubt this concert will sell out quickly. She is every bit as good as she has ever been, and next summer she will perform some of her well-loved songs on the Esplanade.

Mark Mackie, director of Castle Concerts said: “We are delighted to have Kylie play Edinburgh Castle this summer. Without doubt, she is a true global  superstar and voice of a generation, the atmosphere on the night will be truly electrifying.”

Nick Finnigan, Executive Manager at Edinburgh Castle said: “Kylie Minogue’s famous pop songs are sure to appeal to a wide audience and we look forward to hosting her next year when Edinburgh Castle once again transforms into the city’s premier entertainment venue, with its stunning stage and unrivalled backdrop.”

Kylie released her latest album Golden this year and it went straight to number on in common with five others before that. The album has now been in the UK album charts for 20 weeks making it the best-selling 2018 release by an international female artist.

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY 16^th NOVEMBER AT 9 am 

 £75 / £60 and £50  + booking fee

This concert is all seated

Online: www.ticketmaster.com 

By phone: Ticketmaster 0844 844 0444

After a phenomenal year last year when Elite Dry cleaners of  Leven Street won 2 National Industry Awards, one for Best Customer Service 2017-18 and the other for Drycleaner/Wetcleaner of the Year 2017-18, they have done it again.

This year has been exceptional, starting with winning the Drycleaner of the Year 2018 award at the Scottish Independent Retail Awards they then went on to win another two national industry awards at a prestigious event organised by LCN (Laundry and Cleaning News).  Here they won again : for Best Customer Service 2018-19 and Best Independent Drycleaner in the UK 2018-19.

Now they have just added to their success by winning for the second year in a row The National Industry Award for Drycleaner/Wetcleaner of the Year 2018-19 at the Laundry and Drycleaning Awards (LADAs) organised by Laundry and Cleaning Today.

Last month the CINET Global Best Practices Awards 2018 were held in Milan, Italy.

After an official selection procedure, ELITE DRYCLEANERS presented a three minute pitch presentation for the International GBPAP 2018 Jury.

This led to them winning 12th place in the Retail Textile Cleaning category out of 150 official registered extraordinary Professional Textile Care companies from 40 countries.

The awards function as a platform to highlight best practices in PTC and demonstrate the industry’s focus on a high standard of quality, new business models, innovation and sustainability.

A spokesman for ELITE DRYCLEANERS said : ” We are proud to be selected for this award. It showcases our focus on servicing our customers as best as we possibly can.

“We are overwhelmed to have had such a successful couple of years and very honoured to be awarded 12^th place in the world.”

The photo above shows Ross Weir of H J Weir sponsor, Sarah Sheikh one of the business partners, Kate Thornton TV Presenter and the other partner in the business, Kashif Sheikh at the LCN Awards.

This week there will continue to be some road works on our city’s streets. Here is where they will be :

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The directory, called Scottish Health Research and Innovation Ecosystem launched today at the annual Life Science Scotland conference in Glasgow by Dave Tudor, Co-Chair of the Life Sciences Scotland Industry Leadership Group (LSS).

It will help companies to engage directly with NHS Scotland to develop collaborative working projects.

A greatly simplified search process allows companies to find the correct contacts quickly and easily, promoting collaboration, accelerating projects and helping advance new approaches to patient care.

Scotland’s Health Research and Innovation Ecosystem is an easily searchable database of NHS, clinical, academic and trade organisations, with short descriptions of what they do and contact details.

It will also allow companies to search under the headings: invent, develop, test and sell, connecting start-ups with the correct contacts. A second tier search of clinical and technical areas identifies organisations and facilities needed to progress new products and plans.

Julia Brown, Senior Director, High Value Manufacturing and Health, Scottish Enterprise said: “Collaboration between industry and NHS Scotland is key to the life sciences sector and Scotland achieving its potential. Scottish Enterprise is proud to have supported the creation of this new resource to help companies identify and access NHS and health research organisations to develop collaborative working projects and processes, from concept development through to commercialisation.”

The Life Sciences Scotland Strategy vision is to make Scotland the location of choice for Life Sciences businesses, researchers, healthcare professionals and investors while increasing Life Sciences contribution to Scotland’s economic growth.

Scotland has a proven track record over centuries of pioneering invention and medical innovation and is well positioned to revolutionise the Life Sciences landscape of the future.

There is massive potential and opportunity for Scotland’s commercial, academic and clinical expertise to drive such growth, and the directory is a welcome boost to this.

Making these connections, and matching Scotland’s clinical and academic expertise with healthcare industry product development is critical to increasing the level of high-quality health research conducted in Scotland.

The directory is an opportunity to showcase Scotland’s infrastructure and state of the art facilities as well as clinical and academic expertise and the efficient, supportive and attractive research environment.

Dr Charles Weller, General Manager, NHS Research Scotland – Central Management Team (NRS –CMT) said: “NHS Research Scotland (NRS) simplifies access to Scotland’s world-class research infrastructure, supporting the placement, setup and delivery of clinical research studies and innovative research collaborations from all sectors and therapy areas. Research and innovation are vital drivers of improved patient care and economic growth; and this tool complements our existing collaborative efforts with the life sciences community to develop new and improved treatments for patients.”

Stephen Kelly, Science Manager, NHS Research Scotland – Central Management Team (NRS-CMT) said: “The Scottish Health Research and Innovation Ecosystem tool makes it easier for academia, industry and public sector researchers and innovators to access Scotland’s world class infrastructure and expertise; facilitating the development of innovative diagnostics, therapeutics and devices that will enhance patient care across Scotland and beyond.”

Scotland’s Health Research and Innovation Ecosystem was developed by LSS working in partnership with the NHS Research Scotland (NRS), Scottish Enterprise and other partners.

Two of Edinburgh’s communications firms have merged in a new business partnership from today.

Indigo and Talking Canvas are both communications agencies in the capital and now they are to move in together in Leith trading as Indigo. Managing Director of Indigo, Elaine McKean will be at the helm of the larger business. The team brings together specialist consultants in public relations, public affairs, events, reputation and crisis management as well as social media.

Indigo founder and Executive Chairman, Jacqui Low, said: “This opportunity was too good to miss.  Both businesses wanted to grow and we realised there was a wealth of opportunity to combine our offerings and take clients’ expectations to another level.

“The merger will take us forward into a new chapter of growth and expansion for years to come. It will enhance our services across the full range of communications and we know that the Talking Canvas team provides a strong fit in experience and client ethos which matches our own.

“Indigo looks forward to providing our present and future clients with a bespoke offering ranging from media and social media campaigns to political advocacy and anything else that is needed to deliver our client’s message in a clear, informed and intelligent manner.”

Indigo is celebrating its 21^st year and specialises in public relations, media relations, public affairs, community engagement, crisis and reputation management and social media.

Talking Canvas was founded three years ago by experienced marcomms practitioner, Nicki Sturzaker and has built up an enviable portfolio of food and drink, property and travel clients across Scotland.

Nicki Sturzaker said: “Talking Canvas has experienced great success over the last three years and the time was right to look to merge with a successful, established company. Indigo has built a formidable reputation over the last 21 years and we look forward to working closely with them as we build the business further.”

Photo above Lesley Martin

A year on from our launch in October 2017 the Mid-Century market returns for its fourth event.

From the first market we have featured top quality traders in Mid-Century design and furniture from all over Scotland and the rest of the UK. We have had some of the most iconic names in Mid-Century furniture through our doors including Hans Werner, John Piper, Ray Eames and George Nelsen.

Traders include Jacqueline Graham, Simon Ward, C20 home, L’atelier Vintage, Mid Century Finds, Jim Brown and Supramobili

…with more to be confirmed!

Expo Winter 2018 – Edinburgh’s Mid-Century Market Sunday 18th November 2018 12pm – 5pm, £3 Entry/£1.50 Conc. Venue: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh EH6 8RG

More details here

America artist Camille Seaman who is presently exhibiting with Studio Bizio Gallery on Raeburn Place  will be in the studio for an artist’s talk on 28 November 2018.

Camille is an American photographer who applies portraiture strategies to capture the changing natural environment. Her work mainly concerns the polar regions, where she captures the effects of climate change, thus merging the realms of science and art. She is of Native American and African-American descent through her father and mother respectively.

She is a Senior TED fellow and we are assured she is a fascinating speaker!

More details here.

Phil Cunningham’s Christmas Songbook Returns to Edinburgh’s Queen’s Hall for two nights this December

 Phil Cunningham’s Christmas Songbook will return to Edinburgh’s Queen’s Hall on Friday 21^st and Saturday 22^nd December. Having become an essential part of people’s festive season over the past 12 years and the perfect anecdote to brighten those winter nights and get everyone in the mood for a wonderful festive period, the Christmas Songbook is an unmissable night of heart-warming entertainment from some of Scotland’s best-known and best-loved musicians.

Bursting with jovial anecdotes, an unfaltering mix of modern and traditional music alongside exquisite musicianship, the Christmas Songbook is undoubtedly the perfect way for the whole family to get into the festive spirit this Christmas.

Phil Cunningham will be joined by some of the finest musicians on the Scottish folk scene including: Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson, John McCusker, Kris Drever, Ian Carr and Kevin McGuire along with a special guest Brass Band.

Best known as a superb and innovative instrumentalist, Phil Cunningham continues to enjoy an illustrious career having played with Silly Wizard and Relativity and still as witty musical partner of the great Shetland fiddler, Aly Bain. Also widely recognised from his television and radio presenting, Phil has been involved in some of the seminal programmes that have enabled Scottish music to walk tall, he is well known as a true ambassador for traditional music. A humourist and entertainer, his breezy banter can have a 2000-seat hall enraptured and laughing in hysterics.

Phil often keeps high company and no less is true for this year’s special Christmas gathering. A powerful mix of lead vocalists include the inimitable Eddi Reader, who has celebrated a career spanning over 3 decades and has effortlessly developed into one of popular music’s most thrilling and affecting performers. With an MBE for outstanding contributions to the arts, 3 BRIT awards, a #1 single and 8 critically acclaimed solo albums.

Karen Matheson OBE is recognized the world over as the haunting lead vocalist of Celtic supergroup, Capercaillie and has been described on a number of occasion as one of the finest Gaelic singers on the Scottish music scene.

Kris Drever, winner of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year award in 2017, is an Orcadian singer and guitarist who is part of the backbone of today’s contemporary roots scene and is widely admired as a solo artist, collaborator, and member of folk group Lau.

Also joining Phil are multi-instrumentalist, John McCusker, one of Scotland’s most accomplished and versatile musicians in any genre who has worked with artists as diverse as Mark Knopfler, Paul Weller and Patti Smith, Teenage Fanclub and Billy Connolly; Ian Carr, who is known for his original and eclectic approach to traditional music guitar and has established an instantly recognisable sound that has influenced countless musicians and Kevin McGuire who is a highly sought after double bassist who has performed with the likes of Karine Polwart and Kate Rusby.

The Christmas Songbook tour will once again take to the road this December for 6 shows across Glasgow, Edinburgh, Perth and Stirling, as well as adding a new venue in the shape of Eden Court Theatre in Inverness.

Make sure to oil your vocal chords and bring the family!

Six beaches across Scotland were chosen as locations for Danny Boyle’s special project commemorating the end of First World War: St Ninian’s Isle beach in Shetland, West Sands in St Andrews, Scapa beach in Orkney, Ayr Beach, Roseisle beach on the Moray Firth and Culla Bay beach on the isle of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.

I headed for West Sands where they traced out the image of Dr Elsie Maud Inglis who is so important to us here in Edinburgh. Dr Inglis founded the Scottish War Hospitals in Europe, she was a suffragette and gave her name to a maternity hospital here in the capital. Watch our video interview below.

Her great-great niece Geraldine Inglis Agar was there to see the image being formed by sand artists and then washed away as the tide came in.

The City of St Andrews Pipe Band appeared just before the image was washed away again, but sadly the rain had come on by then.

Earlier the scene was one of sunshine and many people came to see what was happening as part of the 14-18 NOW project which almost brings their involvement to an end.

Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy was invited by Boyle to write a new poem, which was read by individuals, families and communities as they gathered on beaches across the UK today.

[vimeo 300240578 w=640 h=360]

The founder of social enterprise Brewgooder, Alan Mahon, won two prestigious awards in Edinburgh this week. He won the top honour at the Royal Bank of Scotland Great British Entrepreneur Awards, taking home the British Entrepreneur of the Year Award as well as the award for Entrepreneur of Good.

Francesca James, co-founder of the Royal Bank of Scotland Great British Entrepreneur Awards, said: “Alan is a fantastic example to other social enterprise entrepreneurs on how to combine a strong social focus with a scalable and exciting business.

“Alan thoroughly deserves both the Entrepreneur for Good Award and the Great British Entrepreneur of the Year award for the region. Team GBEA look forward to keeping a close-eye on Alan’s progress in the coming months.”

Mel Young, founder of the Homeless World Cup, who judged Alan’s entry, said: “Enterprising, innovative, well-led with articulate vision and plans, as well as making a difference to people’s lives. Brewgooder has the potential to be a global player.”

Winners included :

Creative Industries Entrepreneur of the Year – Veoeani Krishnal, Quick Block Ltd (Edinburgh)

Entrepreneur for Good Award – Alan Mahon, Brewgooder (Edinburgh)

Entrepreneurial Spirit Award – Jon Erasmus, HOP Software (Edinburgh)

Family Business Entrepreneur of the Year – Jo Milne, Mascot Group (Edinburgh)

Innovation Entrepreneur of the Year – Denis Lynn, Finnebrogue (Downpatrick)

Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year – Jo-Anne Chidley, Beauty Kitchen (Wishaw)

Service Industries Entrepreneur of the Year – Alex Barron, Triyit (Glasgow)

Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year – Sean Walls & Carla DiMambro, The Optical Factory & Hearing Clinic (Glasgow)

Start-Up Entrepreneur of the Year – Jamie Douglas-Hamilton, ACTIPH Water (Edinburgh)

Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Michael Harkins, Turtle Pack (West Calder)

Great British Entrepreneur of the Year – Alan Mahon, Brewgooder (Edinburgh)

That most mercurial of mercurial rugby nations, Fiji, were the first of three visitors to BT Murrayfield for Scotland’s 2018 Autumn International Series. Having lost to the Pacific Islanders last time they played, Scotland had made great strides forward on their way to the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

Before the match the Royal Marines delivered the match ball with their traditional abseil from the West Stand, before the announcer called for all present to respect a minute’s silence in respect of the Fallen of all Nationalities.

Those great Scottish strides looked a bit shaky early on a as couple of errors lead to an early penalty chance for the visitors which Ben Volavola slotted home for 0-3 after 2 minutes.

Fiji then continued to keep the home side pinned in their own half for the following few minutes before the Scots managed to work their way clear and deep into opposition territory.

A couple of penalties put the match close to the Fijian line and the resultant catch and drive from a penalty line out saw Allan Dell score his first International try. Greig Laidlaw then converted for 7-3 with 12 minutes played.

Five minutes later, another front row, Fraser Brown this time, doubled the Scots’ try tally to two. They had worked their way forward using the ball well until in close when Peter Horne just failed to cross, but, with the recycle, Brown burrowed over. With Laidlaw converting again, it was 14-3 after 17 minutes.

Fiji then came straight back at the home side, using their big runners to hammer through and draw in the defence. A lineout fail from the Scottish pack was gathered by Fiji and driven forward. The final offload to Bill Mata gave the Edinburgh back-row 10 metres, or so, to blast through and dive under the posts for Fiji’s first try and 14-8. Volavola then knocked over the simple conversion to make it 14-10 as the game entered the second quarter.

From the restart, Fiji just turned up the gas and Scotland barely saw the ball, never mind touched it, for the next five minutes as the men from the Pacific showed why they are famous for their running play. Men flew at the home defence from all angles, offloading over, and under, tackles to keep the ball alive and moving forward.

Just reward came in the 26^th minute from Semi Radrada who was put through a yawning gap by the final pass from Tevita Cavabuti and in for their second, converted try, and the lead at 14-17.

But that was the final grandstand play by the visitors as Scotland regrouped and went on the offensive.

The final 10 minutes of the half was almost all inside Fiji’s half and Scotland managed to cross the line twice before having a third attempt confirmed.

Two yellows in quick succession for Fiji had them at a severe disadvantage. The first for Cavabutu lead to Brown crashing over, but his second touchdown off the back of a maul was deemed to have been ‘guided’ by Jamie Richie so was disallowed. Then the Scottish pack drove Willem Nel over, but he fumbled the ball just short, another TMO ‘look’ confirming the on-field verdict.

Leone Nakarawa was then binned for another maul infringement giving the Scots a two man advantage and loads of space wide for Tommy Seymour to get on the end of a wide pass from Finn Russell and dive over in the corner.

Laidlaw then converted from out wide for a half time lead of 21-17.

With only 13 men on the pitch for the start of the second half, Fiji had little hope of containing the Scot’s resurgence and, two minutes into the half, Sean Maitland scored, under intense pressure, for his 10^th International try and 26-17. Laidlaw , again converted so it was quickly 28-17.

And that was, essentially, game over. Fiji did their utmost, trying to break from deep, but, apart from a penalty chance around the 50 minute mark, the half was dominated by Scotland.

With Fiji trapped near their goal as the hour approached line they did what any, self-respecting International side would do, and tried to run it clear! That didn’t, naturally, go at all well, and lead, ultimately, to Seymour scoring his second try. Converted again by Laidlaw, it was now 35-17.

The sixth Scottish try had ‘Fiji’ written all over it as a build up of sublime passing, offloading and running put Seymour in the corner for his hat-trick and 40-17 on 62 minutes.

They continued to dominate play for the following 15 minutes, despite the visitors cranking up the heat once or twice, but the game was only going one way and that was back to the Fijian try line.

This time, it was back to the pack to provide the points. Driving along the goal line, the ball was recycled cleanly allowing Jamie Richie to drive through and ground the ball against the foot of the post for his first try for his country. With the conversion from Russell, Scotland were closing in on the magical 50-points mark at 47-17. There were, however, still 13 minutes left…

Scotland were now all over it and the eighth and final try came from another backs’ move and a debut try for sub, Adam Hastings. Two other subs, Josh Strauss and George Horne had made him a bit of space and the Glasgow man put Russell through and then run round to back him up. The sweetest of return passes from Russell to Hastings left the latest of that dynasty with a clear gallop to the line.

Russell converted once more and the final score was 54-17 to an ultimately dominant Scots’ team who were now looking forward to the monumentally bigger – in all senses – challenge from South African next weekend.

Images from the match will appear here over the next few days

A police investigation is underway after an 80-year-old woman died during a crash on the southbound carriageway of the A1, between Gladsmuir and Abbotsview, near the Abbotsview junction which happened around 4.30pm yesterday afternoon.

The woman, who was travelling in a Toyota Yaris, suffered serious injuries in the crash with a Renault Megane and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Two others were seriously hurt in the crash and a four-year-old boy was taken to hospital as a precaution.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “The 30-year-old male driver of the Renault and his 31-year-old female passenger were also seriously injured and have been taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment.

“A four-year-old boy, who was within the rear of the Renault was taken to the Sick Kids Hospital as a precaution.

“Road policing officers closed the road for around seven hours while they conducted inquiries at the scene.”

He appealed for anyone with information about the collision to contact Police Scotland.

National Theatre of Scotland will be part of Pages of the Sea, Danny Boyle’s commission for 14-18 NOW to mark the centenary of Armistice Day. Today the public is invited to gather on beaches across the UK for an informal, nationwide gesture of remembrance for the men and women who left their home shores during the First World War.

Millions of people served in the First World War and many left by sea. National Theatre of Scotland will be leading events at five beaches across Scotland including St Andrews West Sands, Ayr and in Orkney on Sunday 11 November.

Each event centres around the drawing of a large-scale portrait of a casualty from the First World War, designed by sand artists Sand In Your Eye, which will be washed away as the tide comes in. In addition, the public will be asked to join in by creating silhouettes of people in the sand, remembering the millions of lives lost or changed forever by the conflict.

Poet Carol Ann Duffy has been invited by Boyle to write a new poem, which will be read by individuals, families and communities as they gather on beaches on 11 November. Copies of the poem will be available at the beaches around the UK for those who wish to come together or to offer their own personal contribution.

Danny Boyle said: “Beaches are truly public spaces, where nobody rules other than the tide. They seem the perfect place to gather and say a final goodbye and thank you to those whose lives were taken or forever changed by the First World War. I’m inviting people to watch as the faces of the fallen are etched in the sand, and for communities to come together to remember the sacrifices that were made.”

The public is also invited to explore an online gallery of portraits of some of the men and women who served in the First World War, and select someone to say a personal goodbye to either via social media or as they gather in person on beaches on 11 November. The images are drawn from the Imperial War Museum’s ‘Lives of the First World War’ which aims to tell 8 million stories of those who served from Britain and the Commonwealth. Visitors to the website can also add portraits of members of their family or community who contributed to the First World War.

Jackie Wylie, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of National Theatre of Scotland, said: “The First World War had a devastating impact on Scotland, with tens of thousands of young lives lost and many more forever altered. Our nation has an enduring and emotive connection to the sea and our beautiful coastline has seen many come and go throughout history. Pages of the Sea will create an artistic tribute, both personal and communal, through art, words, pictures and stories, acknowledging all those who left our shores during WW1. As a theatre without walls, the National Theatre of Scotland welcomes this poignant opportunity to help bring communities together in this fitting act of remembrance”

Jenny Waldman, Director of 14-18 NOW, said: “Danny Boyle has created a beautiful, poetic artwork that invites people across the UK to participate in a new nationwide gesture of remembrance on the centenary of Armistice Day. It is a fitting farewell to all of those who served and were affected by the First World War. I would like to thank Danny Boyle, Carol Ann Duffy and all our partners and funders for their help in realising this ambitious project.”

The work is commissioned and produced by 14-18 NOW, the UK’s arts programme for the First World War centenary, and delivered with partner organisations across the UK: National Trust; Activate Performing Arts; Creative Foundation; Eden Project; National Theatre Scotland; Nerve Centre; Swansea City Council and Sunderland Culture.

You can see which beaches are taking part by visiting www.pagesofthesea.org.uk

#PagesoftheSea

Today marks one hundred years since the guns fell silent in the war which was dubbed ‘the war to end all wars’. Sadly that has not proved to be the case and today all over the world countries will stop to remember the war dead, and those who came home injured.

In Edinburgh there are many events of remembrance in various parts of the city.

Tonight from 5.00pm the names of all of those who died and whose names are on the Scottish War Memorial Roll of Honour will be projected onto the front of The Scottish Parliament. This event is a partnership of The Scottish Parliament, The Scottish War Memorial and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

It will take seven hours to show all of the names and will conclude with the Last Post at midnight.

On Remembrance Day there will be a two minute silence at 11.00am. The Lord Provost will lead the commemoration with Legion Scotland on the Royal Mile. At 10.00am, service members, bands, veterans and standard bearers will muster on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. At 10:30am, led by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, they will step off and march to the Stone of Remembrance at the City Chambers before the Lord Provost and others lay wreaths and a silence is held at 11:00am. At the same time, Edinburgh Castle will fire 11 blank artillery rounds, symbolising the cease of gunfire sound 100 years ago, before a service takes place in St. Giles’ Cathedral immediately after the ceremony.

The First Minister will lay a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance at Edinburgh City Chambers before attending the service at St Giles Cathedral. Later in the day she is going to a special service at Glasgow Cathedral marking 100 years since the Armistice.

The Deputy First Minister is attending the remembrance service at Westminster Abbey

Veterans Minister Graeme Dey will take part in the remembrance service at the Cenotaph in George Square, Glasgow

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Remembrance Sunday is an opportunity for people in Scotland to join with others across the world to commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts during the last century.

“It allows us a chance to honour the memory of those who gave their lives, while also paying tribute to our veterans and those who continue to serve today.

“This year of course has added poignancy as it marks 100 years since the signing of the Armistice that ended the First World War.

“The laying of a wreath is a small but significant tribute, and I am privileged to be able to do so on behalf of the people of Scotland.”

EDINBURGH REMEMBERS

At 10.45am the Heart of Midlothian service and Memorial Walk will take place at Haymarket Junction followed by a walk to Tynecastle and the story of McCrae’s Battalion will be told by pupils from four Edinburgh High Schools at 12.15pm

At Liberton Kirk there will be a parade fromThe Army Reserve Centre to Liberton Kirkgate with a service at the kirk which has been decorated with 17,000 poppies.

In Kirkliston the Remembrance Day parade will take place at 12 noon from the High Street and Station Road to the war memorial at the junction with Main Street where a short service will take place.

In South Queensferry the parade will gather at the small car park in the High Street next to Queensferry Museum and will then march along the High Street to the Cenotaph at Rosebery Hall where a short service and wreath laying will take place. The parade then continues to the Church of Scotland on The Loan.

In Sighthill there will be a parade at 10.00am from Murrayburn Primary to St Nicholas Parish Church with a special service in the church at 10.45am featuring crocheted or knitted poppies.

In Barnton there will be a parade along East Barnton Avenue at 12.40pm to the War Memorial At the Green where wreaths will be laid.

In Corstorphine there will be a service at the War Memorial at Corstorphine Kirk on Kirk Loan.

Lord Provost and Veterans Champion, Frank Ross, who said: “This Remembrance Sunday, people the length and breadth of Edinburgh will pay tribute to all those who have fought and died – and who continue to do so – in order to keep this country safe.

“Whether it’s by attending your local Remembrance Service or Parade, or simply by taking a moment of quiet reflection, we can all show our gratitude and appreciation for the enormous sacrifices which have been made and still are every day by courageous men and women.

“As we mark the centenary of the Hundred Days Offensive and the final stages of the First World War, these events provide a very special opportunity for all of us to reflect on the toll the war took on the nation and the end of the First World War, 100 years ago.”

Politicians say…… 

The SNP’s Westminster leader, Ian Blackford MP, will be joining people across the UK to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War One today .

The SNP MP for Ross, Skye & Lochaber will be attending a ceremony at the Cenotaph war memorial in London to mark the occasion on behalf of the SNP and Plaid Cymru.

Ian Blackford MP will also lay a wreath that will be accompanied with the words “Lest we forget” in English, Gaelic and Welsh.

Ian Blackford MP said : “Today marks the centenary of the end of World War One, and we stand and remember those who sacrificed their lives and to ensure that such terrible loss and suffering is never repeated again.

“I am honoured to be able to attend the ceremony today at the Cenotaph, and to lay a wreath in what is only a small gesture in gratitude for the sacrifices our service personnel made during the First World War.

“On this day, for them, we fall silent and remember.”

A remembrance service was held at the Scottish War Blinded’s Linburn Centre on Friday.

Friends of the charity attended the service along with a number of veterans with sight loss.

Scottish War Blinded gives free support to ex-service men and women across Scotland, no matter if they lost their sight during or after service.
If you or someone you know could benefit from Scottish War Blinded’s activities and support, call us free today on 0800 035 6409 or contact us online at www.scottishwarblinded.org

A new photography exhibition at Summerhall will explore the spaces that matter to young people. Invisible Spaces has been co-curated by a group of 18-26 year olds and was commissioned by Historic Environment Scotland to celebrate Scotland’s Year of Young People.

It offers a snapshot of urban spaces as young people see them. It explores homelessness, transience and displacement. It also examines mental health and minority identity, looking at some of the places that are overlooked.

Pooja Suresh, one of the co-curators of Invisible Spaces, said “It has been an absolute privilege working with HES and other young people in Scotland. Being part of this incredible group has not only exposed me to a multitude of professional opportunities, but has also been a source of immense personal growth.

“It is incredible to see how different ideas and themes are bound by the single concept of ‘space’ in our exhibition. It is the one thread that not only ties all parts of Invisible Spaces together but also connects it to Visible Girls in a very distinct manner.

“Exhibitions around spaces such as leisure activities, bars, everyday streetscapes and neighborhood shops and homes are few and far between. With Invisible Spaces we hope to open up the exploration of such spaces and increase the discourse surrounding them.”

Neil Gregory, Deputy Head of Engagement at HES said: “It has been nothing short of inspiring to work with this group of young people to bring Invisible Spaces to Summerhall.  

“Their creativity and ideas have been both challenging and refreshing, and the resulting exhibition gives a powerful insight in to how young people relate to their built environment, and how these spaces have helped shape their identity.

“We’re also hugely grateful to Anita Corbin for the time, guidance and inspiration she has offered to our young photographers as they prepared for this exhibition.

“We will be adding the material from our co-curators to the National Record of the Historic Environment – our archive of Scotland’s archaeological, architectural and industrial history – providing a lasting legacy for this fantastic exhibition.”

The exhibition draws inspiration from photographer Anita Corbin’s acclaimed Visible Girls: Revisited exhibition, which will be on display at Summerhall for its first and only planned show in Scotland alongside Invisible Spaces until Friday 21 December. 

Visible Girls: Revisited explores women’s history and the search for female identity and individuality through portraits of women from different cultural groups and subcultures that Corbin captured in the 1980s – from skinheads to new romantics – and traces their lives and experiences with newly commissioned portraits of the same women now.

Anita Corbin, who began her celebrated photography career in the early 1980s with the Visible Girls series, said: “Working collaboratively with the young people of Scotland has given me a fascinating insight into their contemporary worlds, their hangouts and sanctuaries, where they are finding their way in the world today.

“It is very humbling to see how my Visible Girls portraits, from the early 80s, have connected with the young artists of today – inspiring their response in a diverse and stimulating range of art work, and capturing their lives in 2018. 

“It will be very revealing to look at these works again in the HES archive in 2055 (37 years on), just as I have done with my Visible Girls Revisited series. Photography is a very powerful tool.”

Visible Girls: Revisited and Invisible Spaces will be on display in the Basement Galleries at Summerhall in Edinburgh from 10 November to 21 December 2018 (excluding Mondays).  Entry to both exhibitions is free. 

For more information, visit the HES website. 

Heart of Midlothian 0 Kilmarnock 1
Ladbrokes Premiership, Saturday 10th November 2018 – Tynecastle Park

Hearts suffered a rare home defeat today when Kilmarnock grabbed all three points in the Ladbrokes Premiership encounter at Tynecastle. A goal from Millen towards the end of the game was enough to put a serious dent in any title aspirations the Gorgie side might have. In truth, Hearts could have played until midnight without scoring with the absence of the injured Steven Naismith being felt more than ever.

After last week’s debacle at Celtic Park, Hearts manager Craig Levein made four changes to the team with Ben Garuccio, Olly Lee, Callumn Morrison and Craig Wighton returning to the side with Demetri Mitchell, Harry Cochrane, Jake Mulraney and Sean Clare stepping down.

Hearts thought they might have had a penalty in the opening minutes when Callumn Morrison sped past Tshibola before being brought down by the Killie man inside the penalty box. Play on said referee Don Robertson who didn’t have the best of afternoons.

Hearts keeper Bobby Zlamal then denied the visitors with a great save from Burke as the afternoon took on the pattern of Hearts dominating possession with Killie proving very dangerous on the counter-attack.

Steven MacLean was the next Hearts player to be denied a penalty when he appeared to be tripped by Boyd. Again, Mr Robertson wasn’t interested.

Craig Wighton’s shot hit the junction of the post and crossbar just before half-time but this was as close as Hearts got to scoring.

The only goal of the game arrived 18 minutes from the end when Killie broke forward. Burke set up Millen who fired the ball past Hearts keeper Bobby Zlamal from close range. The Hearts support could sense their team’s unbeaten home record this season was about to end. And it did.

Hearts were too predictable going forward and there were far too many aimless balls into the Killie penalty box which was meat and drink for the visiting defence. The Maroons haven’t scored a goal since Steven Naismith limped off during the Betfred Cup semi-final defeat to Celtic a fortnight ago.

Craig Levein cut a frustrated figure after the game. He told the official Hearts website:

“There’s loads of ways of losing a match, but that’s the most frustrating. We should have been better in the final third but to lose that way makes me feel really frustrated.

“The players that we’ve got in the team that are injured, I think it’s easier for us to score goals with them in the team and everybody knows that, but at the same time we need people to step up, and at times like this to put the ball in the back of the net.

“It’s not just good players it’s strength of character that’s important and that sometimes is missed more than the actual quality of the player.

“So, the problem is not that we’re missing just good players we’re missing people with strength of character who’ve done things in the past and understand certain situations and know how to deal with them.

“We’ve had a difficult period and we can’t continue going through the season winning every match. It’s a reality to check to have lost here for the first time in what feels like a long time and it leaves a bitter taste.”

Hearts: Zlamal, Smith, Dunne, Haring, Lee, Djoum, Wighton, Garuccio (Mitchell, 85′), MacLean (Clare, 82′), Dikamona, Morrison (McDonald, 68′).

Kilmarnock: Bachmann, Taylor, Broadfoot, Power, Dicker, K.Boyd (Jones, 79′), Ndjoli (Wilson, 90′), Findlay, Millen, Tshibola, Burke (McKenzie, 73′).

Referee: Don Robertson

Attendance: 17,417

Top man: Olly Lee

A new work for violin and string quartet and which was inspired by Muriel Spark’s poetry has been written by award winning composer and performer Jessica Danz.

The work will be premiered at The Scottish Poetry Library on Wednesday 14 November 2018 at 7.00pm.

The composer herself will play solo violin with the Brodick Quartet and ensemble of young string players all of them from Scotland.

Tickets are available here.

Jessica Danz said: “I’ve always been powerfully drawn to the relationship between literature and music, and my earliest compositions were settings of poems.

“Through creating scores for theatre and dance I’ve developed a strong interest in the art of storytelling. I’ve selected nine of Spark’s poems to respond to, exploring their characters and voices, and their individual structures and rhythms. 

“The breadth and variety in Muriel Spark’s poetry offers many fascinating possibilities for a composer.  Every poem has suggested a unique musical approach, and inspired different textures and forms – the nine movements include a song without words, a theme and variations based on the fragment of an ancient Gaelic lament, and a mad, melodramatic waltz.“

The project is supported by Creative Scotland’s Muriel Spark 100 fund.

Not booked anywhere to have your meal on Christmas Day yet?

Why not spend it with panoramic views of the Forth from the Horizons restaurant at The Bay Hotel & Leisure Complex in Kinghorn, Fife.

The menu, at £59 per person, presents a positive feast of fine dining, with traditional dishes such as Roast Turkey with all the trimmings, Sherry Trifle, and Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce & Vanilla Pod Ice cream.

And if you want to witness Head Chef James McKay flexing his culinary muscles, why not opt for a Tournedos of Scottish Beef Fillet, or a Baked Fillet of Turbot, the most luxurious of fish, topped with a crayfish and white wine cream!

www.thebayhotel.net

www.pettycur.co.uk

The Edinburgh Fly Dressers Club has started its winter session and it meets every Wednesday at Slateford Bowling Club, Lanark Road, Edinburgh at 7:30pm.

The programme features demonstrations and also provides structured sessions for beginners and anybody interested is invited to visit.

In Penicuik, Fishers are hosting Thursday sessions in their shop in November and December from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. The sessions are free but anglers need to bring their own equipment.

Beginners are welcome to the popular sessions which have been running in the winter for the past nine years and regulars are more than willing to help novice tyers.

Meanwhile, this is the season for annual meetings. Musselburgh and District Angling Association hold theirs on Tuesday, November 27 at 19.45 in the Congregational Church at 6 Links Street, Musselburgh.

Chris Halliday, the chairman, said that this will be the ideal opportunity for anybody interested in joining the committee and he added: “You can put your name forward for consideration by email to riveresk-mdaa@hotmail.com.”

A reminder that Cramond Angling Club host their annual meeting at Cramond Boat Club at 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 21.

And West Lothian Angling Association host their annual meeting on Monday, November 26 at 8pm in Mid Calder Community Centre.

On the water at Rosslynlee Trout Fishery near Roslin, one angler made others green with envy.

David Bullen landed 12 trout on one visit and he returned for another session two days later and hooked 11 on various patterns including diawl bach (Welsh for little devil).

Other popular patterns currently succeeding include the egg and olive dancers.

Rosslynlee also promote a loyalty scheme. If you visit on nine occasions you get the tenth visit free and manager John Dewar confirmed that the regularly re-stock the water.

To prove it, there is a chart near the check-in desk indicating the re-stocking dates.

And the special, end-of-season, offer at Loganlea Trout Fishery ends on Sunday (November 11).

Owner Karen Jack offers take-what-you-catch for £25 from 9am to 5pm and interest has been high in the bank fishing only deal.

Karen said that any legal method can be used and anglers who have taken up the offer have produced spectacular results.

Two customers landing 23 fish for 63.7lbs, one of which was a cracking 5.75lbs.

A police investigation is underway after a 37-year-old woman was badly burned when acid was thrown in her face by a man in a dark hooded tracksuit as she answered the door of a property in Captain’s Road at 20:40 last night.

Detectives believe she was the victim of a targeted attack and appealed for help to trace the man responsible.

The suspect is described as being in his early 20s, about 5ft 11in tall, and of slim build. His face was covered and he wore dark gloves and dark trainers with light reflective sections.

The victim is being treated in hospital.

Det Insp Stevie Rosie said: “We are still working to establish the motive surrounding this attack.

“However, we believe this to be a targeted attack. Police are supporting the victim, who has sustained some very serious injuries to her face and neck.

“Anyone who recognises him, or who has any other information relevant to this investigation should contact police immediately.”

On 10 December at 6.30pm the Tree of Remembrance will be lit up in Charlotte Square Gardens.

Before then you can donate to the Light Up a Life Appeal by making dedications and donations online.

This year, the hospice marks its 40^th anniversary and with it, four decades of its Light Up A Life appeal.

More than 2000 people came along to the event last year, the highest attendance to date. The lights on the 40ft tree symbolise dedications which have been made in memory of people who have died, giving the tree special meaning to those who have made one to remember a loved one.

Charlotte Square Gardens will open at 5.30pm to spectators, with refreshments available courtesy of Starbucks. A local community choir will be singing Christmas carols and the ceremony will begin at 6.30pm with Sir Tom Farmer making a short speech, followed by the lights being turned on. The tree will remain lit up until Friday 5 January.

Everyone is welcome to visit the Gardens for the service and can also make a dedication if they would like to.

Dedications can be made online at www.stcolumbashospice.org.uk/lightupalife or by calling 0131 551 1381.

The Changing Room invites men to come along to Easter Road Stadium on Monday 12 November at 6pm to chat all things football – with a focus on mental strength in football.

For 90 minutes we’ll talk football, Hibs and kick-off the conversation about men’s mental health in an environment that regularly brings men together.

There’s no need to sign up for this event, simply just come along to the West Stand at 6pm to take part. These sessions are a chance to get away from the everyday stresses we deal with and focus on football at the home of the club.

If you’ve not been to one of The Changing Room’s sessions before, consider coming this time – bring a mate along and find out what it is all about.

The Changing Room is a scheme which has seen Hibernian work with SAMH and the SPFL Trust, and funded by Movember, with a focus on encouraging positive dialogue surrounding men and their mental health, with a wide-range of weekly sessions and one-off events taking place as part of The Changing Room.

Free teas and coffees will be provided.

For more information on the event please contact thechangingroom@samh.org.uk

Yes here they come. The Christmas ads – or those which we have found so far. If you know of any others then do send us the link in the comments below.

Some of them are pretty. Some cost a fortune. All to entice you to get your purse or wallet out this Christmas and spend some money with these retailers.

Which is your favourite ad?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z6KIlJaACw?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2VPfQNKFeU?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

Iceland spent a reported £500,000 on their ad but it will not be shown on TV as Clearcast have banned it. (So of course everyone is watching it!)

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdpspllWI2o?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gylw4hTOE8?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3JNWFlJ8p4?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

Sainsbury’s advert will probably be released on 11 November…..they delayed till 12 November last year and almost broke the internet…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3WKzrxB7wQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-GB&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=696&h=392]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3I39nu2N5M?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

Vodafone have Martin Freeman….. on skates

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mqkk2mo4vm4?feature=oembed&w=696&h=392]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnWodnR1lao?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-GB&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=696&h=392]

The Ross Fountain in Edinburgh’s West Princes Street Gardens glistened for the first time when the new lighting was switched on last week.

The recently restored water feature in West Princes Street Gardens is now fitted with a low energy, state of the art, waterproof LED system integral within the fountain pools which will project ripples as the water is moved by the wind, creating a shimmering effect after dark.

The water supply was temporarily switched off on October 1 to allow the works to take place ahead of the formal switch on.

Water began flowing through the Fountain for the first time since 2010 when restoration works were completed by the Ross Development Trust on 8 July 2018.

Thanks to the work by @TheRDtrust this happens every evening….. pic.twitter.com/zzFHYlodnZ

— Edinburgh Reporter (@EdinReporter) November 7, 2018

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

Photo above Ian Georgeson

Remembering those from Leith who died in the Quintinshill Disaster

There is a restored railway coach from the same type of train used to take soldiers to Liverpool in 2015 in Leith just in front of the Malmaison. 498 members of The Royal Scots were on their way to Liverpool to embark for Gallipoli when their train was involved in a collision at Gretna. The carriages were wooden and 216 soldiers died as a result of fire spreading quickly throughout the train. Many of the soldiers were from the 7th (Leith) Battalion.

This afternoon in Leith at 2.00pm the Lord Provost will take part in an open air service of Commemoration conducted by the Rev Iain May Minister of South Leith Parish Church supported by the church choir and the Lowland Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. All are welcome.

This follows a series of memorial events to remember those lost in the disaster in 2015. You can read more about all of those here  See also the fabulous film below made for Gretna 100 by Out of the Blue.

The Scottish Government is to consider whether speed limits in built up areas should be reduced across the country from 30mph to 20mph.

They have designated the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee who will invite views from the public and other interested parties as to whether they would support such a move.

The Restricted Roads(20mph Speed Limit )(Scotland) Bill was introduced to Holyrood by the Member in Charge Mark Russell MSP in September of this year. The committee will consider the bill before completing stage 1 of the bill on 21 June 2019.

The committee is seeking views until 28 January 2019 and you can have your say here.

In Edinburgh there is already a 20 mph speed limit in place and the final phase came into effect on 5 March 2018. All residential streets, shopping streets and the city centre are subject to the reduced speed limit with some arterial routes maintained at 30 or even 40mph. This has been introduced in Edinburgh since the first decision in January 2015.

Edward Mountain MSP, Convener of the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee said: “Our inquiry will explore what impact a 20 mile per hour speed limit could have on communities, and whether this speed limit will help to make roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

“A number of local authorities across Scotland have already introduced a 20 mile per hour speed limit, but we want to find out whether there is support for a roll-out across Scotland. We look forward to hearing from a wide range of people, from members of the public to safety campaigners and local authorities.”

Some of the questions the Committee will be asking include:

• Is reducing the speed limit to 20mph in 30mph areas the best way of achieving the aims of the Bill?
• How will the 20mph Bill affect you?
• It is proposed that a national awareness campaign is required to introduce a 20mph speed limit. Do you agree with this? And if so, what shape should any campaign take?
• Should Police Scotland be required to take additional enforcement action, over and above that used to enforce the current 30mph limit, following the introduction of a default 20mph limit on restricted roads?
• What kind of timescale is needed for the 20mph speed limit to be introduced?
• Do you have any comments on the impact that the Bill might have in relation to sustainable development, or island, rural or remote communities?