The Edinburgh Reporter January 2020

January 2020

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A new decade dawns NEWS

Fixing the roads and pavements Read more on Page 6

FOOD

Juliet is resorting to tea this New Year Read more on page 25

WHAT'S ON PHOTO Š Martin P McAdam This month will mark the end of one decade and we can move on to the Twenties. Will they be anything like the Roaring Twenties of the 20th century? Who knows!

Our photo shows the two faces of the most photographed building in Edinburgh - The Rocco Forte owned The Balmoral. So first we have to look back...

The end of last year was a busy one mainly due to the six week General Election campaign and

then the fallout of that just before the Christmas holidays.

Then we can look forward.

Now the UK Government seems set on steering a course to life outside the EU, while The Scottish Government is constitutionally opposed to that and calling for a second independence referendum.

There is no doubt that there will be more politicking to come in the year ahead.

To start things off you have the

Johnnie Walker Burns&Beyond Festival to look forward to from 21 January to 9 February 2020.

There will be a feast of Scottish and Chinese culture to enjoy as the Chinese New Year falls on Burns Night for once.There are still tickets for the OneCity Trust Burns Supper, a black tie event being held on Friday 24 January at Prestonfield House.

The council's Finance and Resources Committee meets on

JOIN IN JANUARY GET FEBRUARY FREE

23 January 2020 for a special meeting to discuss its budget for the next financial year. This will be preceded by The Scottish Budget when Finance Secretary Derek Mackay will set out his spending plans for the country. This was delayed from early December and will be delivered in a shortened timescale. What seems clear is that there is never enough money for government at any level.

Happy New Year!

Burns&Beyond celebrates both Burns and Chinese New Year Read more on page 16

FEATURE

Birch Tree Gallery welcomes Peter Davis from Shetland Reader more on page 15

GET MORE FOR YOUR MEMBERSHIP at the biggest club in town this winter.

Join online today at edinburghleisure.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 31st January.

Registered Scottish Charity No: SC027450

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ABOUT US Thank you very much for reading The Edinburgh Reporter newspaper this January.

Another year and another decade begins!

I wish prosperity and good health to you and yours in 2020 and beyond.

Please have a look at our website and the multimedia content we produce on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as well as our podcasts on Anchor.FMm and videos on YouTube and Vimeo.

All of this content is brought to you free of charge, but it costs real money to produce all of this content.

If you can, then could we ask you to consider making a regular donation? The price of a cup of coffee every now and then helps us a lot!

Scan the QR code below which directs you to the donations page on our website.

Your kind assistance helps us to maintain all of our content as free to access for the foreseeable future. We are very grateful to all of you who already do.

But if you would like to advertise with us and support us that way then do get in touch. editor@ theedinburghreporter.co.uk You can also read The Edinburgh Reporter on PressReader. This app fallows you to download copies of whole newspapers and magazines from across the world rather than reading stories online. You can use your library card to get free copies- ask at your local library how it works!

And if you have any stories for us please get in touch. We are really interested in getting our teeth into local stories that need to be told Phyllis Stephen Editor

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Letters to the Editor What’s in a name?

From the Rt Hon Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Frank Ross Councillor Corstorphine Murrayfield.

The citizens of Corstorphine Murrayfield have been sent a very clear message by the Council.

You don’t matter.

You’re not important.

And how was that message communicated?

At the recent Finance and Resources committee meeting an amendment was unanimously agreed that has been viewed by the community as ending any prospect of Council funding to support the rebuilding of the Corstorphine Community Centre.

This despite assurances, over the last 12 months, from several political groups, the Leader and Depute leader of the Council and previous committee positions, arrived at unanimously, that led us to believe funding would be forthcoming.

Those volunteers who have committed thousands of hours raising funds, developing designs and business plans will feel absolutely gutted by this decision.

As will all the community volunteers who opened and ran the Hub on St John’s Road maintaining contact with the groups that had used the old community centre and ensuring community services were still available to local citizens.

Indeed although the Hub facilities are not suitable for all the existing groups the volunteers have worked hard to develop new activities catering for vulnerable groups within the community.

The Hub’s existence is at risk from the proposed redevelopment of the site and the there were great community hopes based on the rebuilt centre.

Those councillors who opposed supporting the community are happy to benefit from the not insignificant amount of council tax raised from Corstorphine Murrayfield but were unwilling to reinvest £750k back into the rebuild for the benefit of the community.

This is a large amount of money but has already been matched by over £2 million pounds committed to this project by the wider Corstorphine Murrayfield community.

Additionally matched funding in excess of £100,000 may now be at risk.

Despite assurances that the funding could be secured against the land value thereby securing the Council’s money if it ceased to operate as a community centre the committee decided to leave Corstorphine Murrayfield as the only ward in the City with no council community facility.

There will be widespread dismay in Corstorphine Murrayfield over this decision and many will wonder what motivated those councillors who blocked progress on this It is perhaps of great concern that none of the Councillors on the F&R committee have ever visited the area or the Hub to see the great work being carried out by community volunteers.

However the Chairperson has written to all Group leaders inviting them and their respective Finance representatives to visit the Hub and see first hand what is happening in the community.

I would urge them all to take up this offer.

Dear Editor, LED digital advertising screens and signs in city shop windows are spreading like a wildfire. Is there no limit to how large, disturbing or distracting they can be? Shouldn't they need planning permission from the Council before being installed?

Presumably they're meant to attract customers, but those that are over-bright or have constantly flashing or moving images put me right off. I spend my money elsewhere! I urge others who prefer a calmer, more tranquil environment to boycott these businesses.

Yours sincerely, R M Atkinson

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I take pride in leading a healthy lifestyle, being respectful and am also hardworking.

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According to National Records of Scotland there is no change in the most popular babies names in Scotland this year.

Jack and Olivia were the most popular first names for babies whose births were registered in 2019 and as we have already reported in previous years Jack has been the most popular boys’ name for 12 years in a row and Olivia is the top girls’ name for a fourth consecutive year.

In Edinburgh the number one choice last year, in 2018, was James closely followed by Alexander at number 2 and Oliver at number 3. At fourth equal Harris Jack and Leo, Rory at 7th and then

Oscar, Thomas and Daniel tied for 8th place with Daniel, Finlay, Hamish, Lucas and Max all tied at number 10.

As for the girls registered in Edinburgh in 2018, the number one name was Isla with Olivia, Emily, Ella, Amelia, Sophie, Sophia, Ava, Charlotte, Lily and Mia in the top ten.

NEWS IN BRIEF The Speaker newspaper published in Restalrig, Lochend and Craigentinny since 2002 is to be cut back to quarterly from Spring 2020 due to lack of funding. The editor Liz Ferguson is retiring and the newspaper will be edited by someone new in the New Year.

Childhood Immunisation Statistics, Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “Childhood immunisation rates across Scotland remain very high. Uptake rates of the MMR vaccine have continued to exceed the 95% target and there is no evidence of significant transmission of measles in Scotland among infants or children in primary or secondary school.

“This reflects both the hard work and commitment of those working in the NHS and the recognition

of the benefits of vaccination.

However, we are not complacent and will continue to make every effort to promote and encourage childhood vaccinations.”

Gordon Macdonald MSP said to Holyrood that despite the council having their own Fair Trade City signage at the city boundary on the A71, they prevented Balerno from putting up their own signs.

Minister Michael Matheson replied it was a matter for councill who have the power over such signage.

The Edinburgh Wellbeing Festival is on from 1 – 2 February 2020 at Assembly Rooms. It brings together some of the biggest names in the wellness industry to deliver a weekend of talks, classes and workshops to help us all lead healthier and happier lives. edinburghwellbeingfestival.com

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Rotarians hear firsthand about their help In December the members of the Currie Balerno Rotary Club were able to see for themselves an example of the benefit that their intervention can bring.

The Club was contacted by Janet Walker, Deputy Head Teacher at the Wester Hailes Education Centre (WHEC), seeking funding for a four-day residential course for three students with speech impediments. The funding was agreed and the students - Tyler Carrol, Ainslie MacKinnon and Brandon Hogg – were able to benefit from the course.

It was then arranged that Pupil Support Leader Gavin Ellis should come to the Club, along with Tyler, Ainslie and Brandon, to receive the Club’s cheque on behalf of WHEC. Sadly Tyler was unable to attend but the others are in the photo below.

After the presentation of the cheque Ainslie said a few words on behalf of himself, Brandon and Tyler expressing their thanks for the support the Club had given.

He spoke carefully and remarkably well, saying that the course had not only enabled him to do much to overcome his speech impediment but also given him the confidence to

From left Ainslie, Gavin, Brandon and Club President Lindsay Craig. speak publicly as he did on this occasion.

The Club members were both impressed and moved by Ainslie’s words of thanks and were delighted to have this rare opportunity to see at first hand what their help had achieved.

This intervention was financed partly by the Rotary Club’s charity

account but primarily by the Community Chest, set up by the Currie Balerno Rotary Club in 2016 and now funded equally by the Rotary Club, the Balerno Village Trust and CALA Homes.

For more information about the Community Chest or the Rotary Club go to www.cbrotary.org or Mike Rowe on 0131 449 5701.

National recognition for Tracey Tracey Smith, Operations Director at Edinburgh-based GTS Solutions CIC, has been named one of the country's most inspiring business women.

She was recognised for her work in the social enterprise sector and was included in the Women in Social Enterprise 100 (WISE100) 2019 run by NatWest Social and Community Capital.

Tracey was also nominated in the One To Watch category just under a year after becoming GTS Solutions' first female operations director.

A glittering awards ceremony was held at NatWest's conference centre in Bishopsgate, central London, and Tracey admits the achievement has taken a while to sink in.

"I was surprised but also delighted when I heard the news," said Tracey, the only WISE100 person who is a director of a company currently in the NatWest SE100 Index.

"I don't think the realisation has dawned on me yet but obviously it's a very proud moment.

"GTS Solutions has been refocusing on public safety in the last year and this is great recognition for us and for what we are trying to do.

"From a personal perspective it's great to be recognised as a female in the security industry as it has generally been a male-dominated

sector."

GTS Solutions is the only gold standard social enterprise operating in private security in the UK and is recognised for paying the living wage to all employees.

Tracey has helped the company attain Disability Confident employer status for the first time.

This is awarded by the Department of Work and Pensions.

She has also supported more than 40 people from a range of backgrounds into employment.

She said: "I believe there is only a barrier if you allow that barrier to be there.

"It is such a good feeling to help people by nurturing their abilities and seeing them grow as people."

Rotary International Rotary’s governing body, Rotary International, likes mottos and themes!

Most months of the year have designated themes: not widely publicised, these are primarily to remind Rotarians of important aspects of their “Service above self” – that is, helping people less fortunate than themselves.

January is “Vocational Service” month.

This can be summed up no better than in the words of Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris: “Of all the hundred and one ways in which men can make themselves useful to society, undoubtedly the most available and often the most effective are within the spheres of their own occupations”.

Self-evident? Possibly. Confined to Rotary? Certainly not: other voluntary organisations also make use of their members’ talents,

vocational or otherwise, and why not?

In Rotary Clubs in and around the city, there are numerous examples of “Vocational Service” performed by their members: builders build; painters paint; drivers drive; nurses and doctors help at events such as “Stroke Prevention Days”; fund-raisers raise funds! The breadth of vocational backgrounds needed to help under-privileged people is so large that Rotary Clubs are always looking to attract new members, especially those with special talents or skills.

So, don’t hide your light under a bushel. If you think that you could use your talents to help others, why not consider joining Rotary?

For more information on Rotary contact secretary@rotary1020.org.

Many local Clubs also have Facebook pages, where further information can be found.

Dementia study into damaging proteins Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have made new discoveries about damaging proteins which build up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

A study in mice reveals how two proteins – amyloid beta and tau – work together to disrupt communication between brain cells. Clumps of the proteins were found in the mouse model and in brain tissue from people with Alzheimer’s.

Scientists observed how the proteins team up to hamper key genes responsible for brain messaging.

By changing how genes are expressed in the brain, the proteins can affect its normal function.

These changes in brain function were completely reversed when

genetic tools were used to reduce the presence of tau.

The study focused on the connection points between brain cells – known as synapses – that allow chemical and electrical messages to flow and are vital to healthy brain function.

Stopping the damage that the two proteins cause to synapses could help scientists prevent or reverse dementia symptoms, the researchers say.

Lead researcher, Professor Tara-Spires Jones works at the UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh.

She said: “More work is needed to take what we’ve learned in this study and find therapeutics – but this is a step in the right direction, giving us new targets to work towards."

EIF residency at Leith Academy Edinburgh International Festival celebrated its residency at Leith Academy with cake last month.

The pupils also unveiled their new branding all developed with the EIF marketing team and using the well known EIF yellow within the design.

Caroline Donald Head of Learning and Engagement at EIF said :“We’ve been working in the school since 2019 and we’re running a three year residency in partnership with the school, bringing the EIF together to enrich the life of the school, but also to enrich the work of the Festival.

"We’re working creatively looking at creativity skills, but also looking at the skills that are needed by our festival team to make the

festival. Our yellow brand is well known across the world. During the festival, they will be coming to see work.

"They’ll be helping us with some of the talks and events and we’ll have workshops from some of the artists coming to the festival happening in the school.”

Watch the video by scanning the QR code here.

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Plans for Peffermill The University of Edinburgh has published artist impressions of its planned new sports village at Peffermill Playing Fields.

There will be a sports centre designed to complement the landscape in the area which will increase the facilities students can use.

About half of the bookings at Peffermill are made by the wider public and they will enjoy the enhanced facilities of the world class sports village too.

The University’s sports facilities across the city are used by numerous teams and members of the public on a daily basis.

This will include a 12-court multipurpose sports hall, four-court indoor tennis hall, strength and

conditioning gym, fitness gym, and social and conference spaces.

The tennis facilities are supported by Tennis Scotland’s Transforming Scottish Indoor Tennis Fund – in recognition of the shortage of easy access to indoor courts in the local area.

Basketball, futsal, korfball, netball and volleyball will also be added to the sports available at Peffermill, along with improved facilities for hockey and archery.

Plans include a 573-bed residence on existing University land, which will offer accommodation for students during term time.

These will then be made available for athletes and event attendees during summer months.

Getting the roads fixed

Shane Carter has lived in East Claremont Street for about three years and for at least two of those he has been trying to get the council to do something about the state of the road and pavements there.

He explained to us that it is particularly the footpaths which concern him.

Mr Carter said : "My complaint with the council is is that the highways department is reactive and not proactive, that it's a service in crisis. They are not proactively managing their work. They're not engaging with residents.

"And they're just very arrogant about when they'll do work if they'll do them at all, and about actually not putting works out to tender in time and making sure that what needs to be done is done in a timely manner. That's really my essential complaint with the council.

"The pavements in East Claremont Street and the

road membrane - the cobbled membrane - is in a parlous state.

It's extremely dangerous. What if an old person, a disabled person or a visually impaired person came along here and tripped? They have less wherewithal to protect themselves than other members of the public. That would put a huge pressure on our hard pressed NHS and it's the fault of the council - it's a dereliction of duty on the part of the council. Any defences that are available to the council in the Highways Act will be defeated if someone is injured, I'm certain of it."

He has taken his complaint to the very top. He continued : "I have written to Councillor McVey the leader of the council about this matter, I get all sorts of promises and assurances back. I've written to the City Engineers' Department, who had the effrontery 12 months ago to tell me they might do the works in the financial year 2019/2020 but there again, they might not. Everything is as long as a piece of string. How dare anyone

write to a member of the public that pays council tax and say something in those terms?

"Now, I would like these works prioritised. They say that they'll start on 6 January. Quite frankly, I'm not holding my breath. I'd like to see the documents where these works were tendered back in September. I don't believe it was the case."

The Edinburgh Reporter asked the council what they were doing about the state of the pavements in this area. They confirmed that they had put the works out to tender but that no tenders had been received.

Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “As has already been discussed with Mr Carter, it is necessary that we carefully prioritise road and footway improvement projects across the city to allow us to focus limited resources on the areas that are most in need and where we can create the greatest benefit.

“We do appreciate concerns around this area in particular though, which is already listed as one of the footway renewal projects to be carried out this financial year. I’d like to thank the community for their patience in the meantime.”

The council approved works on the footpaths in East Claremont Street in March 2019, but SGN have been conducting extensive gas works in the area throughout this year. Bellevue was closed in autumn and so work could not have been carried out then. But the council do plan to start this remedial work before the end of the financial year.

We are sure Mr Carter will keep us updated on any progress.

Highland Show bosses promote public transport The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has just completed its third year of investment in the showground at Ingliston, with record attendance at the show and welcoming over one million people at over 200 events at The Royal Highland Centre.

A planned three-year £15 million investment programme into the Society’s 120-acre site was announced in 2017.

Now that programme is almost

complete. There has been significant modernisation to utilities, upgrading of existing event facilities and a £5 million conference and membership facility has been built which will be launched in Spring this year, The 180th Royal Highland Show in 2020 looks like the most sustainable to date. RHASS Directors also gave their support to a root and branch review of transport and travel to the RHS following the successful pilot of its public transport plan in 2019 when over 40,000 visitors left the car at home and travelled to the show by bus, tram and train.

New for the 2020 Show is a comprehensive bus travel plan which will transport those coming to the show from major towns and cities throughout Scotland, providing a realistic alternative to car journeys.

Alan explained the approach: “The RHS has an ongoing commitment to improving its sustainability and environmental credentials and we will continue to promote its excellent public transport links as the ‘Best Way to

get to the Show’. Our aim is to set the standard in sustainable travel for the event and would welcome all our visitors to ‘enjoy a dram and take the tram’, ‘let the train take the strain’ or ‘avoid any fuss and take the bus!’”

Last year over 50,000 day visitors parked at the showground during the four days and according to Chief Executive Alan Laidlaw, this level of parking is simply not sustainable as the Show grows.

He said: “We have invested significantly in ensuring the Show is as sustainable as possible through recycling, reduced energy and water consumption as well as reducing food miles by sourcing local produce. The final piece in the jigsaw is to reduce the environmental impact of travelling to and from the showground and the time has now come to take bold steps to actively discourage the use of cars as the primary mode of travel.

“Without doubt the biggest source of frustration amongst visitors is around travel time. The reality is that these roads are already congested due to heavy

traffic coming to and from the city and the airport every day and it is not realistic to expect an additional 12,500 cars per day not to have a significant impact.”

He added: “We have allocated significant resources to collaborate with public transport operators to streamline getting to the showground by bus, train or tram. Feedback from users who have used this service has

been overwhelmingly positive so we will build on this for the 2020 show and beyond. However, for those who absolutely need to take the car, then advance parking tickets are available via the Show’s website.

Alan concluded: “By incentivising public transport we can support a change in behaviour that will secure the sustainability of the show.”

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Bereavement support More people die and fewer babies born in Scotland in autumn 2019

Tom Gordon Of course losing someone is not easy, but Edinburgh-based funeral directors, William Purves, has a way of helping - even after they have dealt with the practicalities of a funeral.

They offer Acorns Bereavement Support to anyone whether they

are a client of the family firm or not.

This is a six week programme which is open to you if you are living with a loss. There is no charge and it is a useful way of meeting experts who can help, as well as others who might have had the same experience.

It is the idea of Tom Gordon who works with the firm. Tom used to be the chaplain at Marie Curie Hospice.

He explained the ethos around Acorns: “As the company expanded with more and more people going through their hands, there was a concern that they had nowhere that they could refer people on to. There's plenty of good agencies who do support, but there wasn't anything short life, a starter for ten Weightwatchers for the bereaved whatever you want to call it, where people could come together, learn from each other, with our guiding hand and with good professional input.” www.williampurves.co.uk

Andrew Purves is the fifth generation of the family to run the firm

There were 13,155 births and 13,585 deaths registered in Scotland between 1 July and 30 September 2019, according to provisional figures released last month by National Records of Scotland. Compared to the quarter three average for the previous five years, births have fallen by 7.0 per cent and deaths have risen by 4.4 per cent.

The number of births was the second lowest quarter three total since civil registration began in 1855 (only 2018 was lower).

There is no single reason for the downward trend in the number of births, but possible causes may include the postponement of childbearing until later in life; and economic uncertainty influencing decisions around childbearing, as the beginning of the recent fall coincided with the financial crash a decade ago.

At 13,585, the number of deaths registered was the highest quarter three total since 1998 (13,812).

Compared with the third quarter average over the previous five years, 2014-2018: • The number of cancer deaths rose by 5.0 per cent to 4,157; • The number of deaths from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease rose by 18.2 per cent to 1,473; • The number of deaths from coronary heart disease fell by 3.6 per cent to 1,462; • Deaths from respiratory diseases fell by 11.7 per cent to 1,222; • There were 843 deaths from cerebrovascular disease (a decrease of 7.0 per cent).

The provisional figures also show there were 9,512 marriages in total. This is 13.1 per cent lower than the average number of third

quarter marriages for the previous five years, and the lowest quarter three marriage figure since 1932.

There were 352 same-sex marriages, 20 fewer than in 2018 quarter three.

There were 22 civil partnerships (10 male and 12 female), ten more than in the third quarter of 2018.

Paul Lowe, the Registrar General for Scotland, said: “The number of deaths was 4.4 per cent higher than the five year average for this time of year, and represented the highest quarter three deaths total in 21 years.

“The number of births in Scotland rose very slightly compared with the third quarter of last year, but was still the second lowest level of quarter three births since civil registration began in 1855 and was down 7.0 per cent on the five year average.”

Sick Kids questions remain unanswered The public spending watchdog said important questions about the delay to the opening of the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People remain unanswered.

The Auditor General for Scotland said that the reviews to date have been unable to establish a number of issues, including: · why specifications in the hospital's 2012 tender papers were inconsistent with national ventilation guidelines for critical care areas - an error that led to confusion - and why a series of opportunities to spot the error - which caused the delay to the 2019 opening of the hospital were missed.

The report sets out the facts

as they are known and draws on the reviews already carried out by KPMG and NHS National Services Scotland, as well as NHS Lothian's annual audit report.

It comes ahead of a public inquiry into the hospital project and raises broader issues for consideration, including: · the clarity and application of the national ventilation guidelines, and how they were managed · the effectiveness of the oversight and scrutiny of the project · the role of all the parties involved, including project company IHSL's construction arm, Brookfield Multiplex, who also built the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in

Glasgow.

Caroline Gardner is Auditor General for Scotland, She commented : "It's clear that the checks and balances around the construction of the new children's hospital didn't work, and the public inquiry may want to consider why that happened after similar issues had emerged around the building of schools in Edinburgh.

"It would also be beneficial to understand the role played by all the parties involved, and to explore why the issues that emerged at Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth hospital didn’t prompt greater scrutiny in Edinburgh."

The Sick Kids was due to open in July 2019, but was already late.

Comment - Planning ahead

by Cliff Hague of the Cockburn Association As we welcome 2020, what will Edinburgh be like in 2030?

The City Council’s ideas for CityPlan2030, its 10-year Development Plan, go public this month. In anticipation, the Cockburn Association produced five discussion documents last summer and shared them with the public at three soapbox sessions, and with Community Councils at the Edinburgh Civic Forum. From 2007-17 Edinburgh’s population increased by 57,000 – that’s 12.5% - mainly from national and international migration. Further growth is predicted: the same rate of increase would mean another 64,000 before 2030. Student housing completions numbered 1380 in 2010-11, but 4,050 were built during 2016-17. The number of Edinburgh University students

here increased 29% 2008-18. Run that rate forward, add in similar growth at Edinburgh’s three other universities and you have another 18,000 students by 2028. Tourist numbers grew from 3.27m in 2012 to approaching 4.8m today. Hotel rooms completed? 630 in 2010-11, but 1575 in 2016-17. Short-term lets, almost unheard of 10 years ago, now account for one in six flats in the city centre. Traffic has increased too – up 7.5% 2012-17.

Over the past decade these steep increases have impacted most on the city centre and Leith, and squeezed out affordable housing.

Continued to 2030 they will change Edinburgh for ever. Growth promises more GDP and jobs.

But 80,000 people in Edinburgh live in relative poverty, in several wards they amount to more than one in four, and one child in five in Edinburgh grows up in poverty.

CityPlan2030 should prioritise well-being and inclusion, not just growth.

Tiny Changes partners with The Centre The Centre, Livingston, one of Scotland’s largest shopping centres which attracts over 16m shoppers a year, has announced its new charity partner as Tiny Changes, a mental health charity started in memory of Frightened Rabbit frontman Scott Hutchison. The charity was founded by Scott’s two brothers, Neil and Grant and mum Marion, to raise awareness about children and young people’s mental health, following the passing of Scott in 2018.

The charity’s aim is to promote initiatives that provide help for children and young people impacted by mental health issues and support for their families and carers and also to give youngsters a voice to help influence mental health policy and practice.

Grant Hutchison, Patrick Robbertze and Neil Hutchison

8

The Edinburgh Reporter

POLITICS

Visit to Hangzhou China

by Cllr Gavin Barrie Having been honoured to witness the signing of an MOU supporting teacher training between Moray House College and the Education Department of China’s Zhejiang Province (population 56 million) in November, I was delighted to spend a week in the Province further supporting all kinds of exchanges between Edinburgh, Scotland, Hangzhou and beyond.

Chinese led and Edinburgh based, the Asian Association for Culture Commerce Education in Europe (AACCEE), and their associated companies, are a multi-faceted organisation that does much to promote Edinburgh and Scotland to China. I have supported them for a number of years now and this is my second trip to China doing just that.

Whether acting as promoter for the Edinburgh Chinese New Year concert, bringing acts from China to appear at the Fringe, or Chinese school students visiting Scotland for education and cultural purposes, all of this and more, is assisted by AACCEE. My time with them in China was spent visiting, engaging

and encouraging individuals and organisations who are considering the big step of coming to Edinburgh and Scotland to take that step. And it is organisations such as AACCEE who have assisted in seeing Edinburgh as a place of choice for education, investment and residence for our growing Chinese community.

The MOU will allow Moray House staff to hold a teacher training course in Hangzhou during March 2020, where previously these courses only permitted Senior Teachers to attend Scotland for this training.

The wide exchange of theoretical, practical and cultural knowledge should nurture enhancements for all parties.

I am confident that AACCEE, with the appropriate support, will continue to enhance relationships between the Chinese community and Scots at home and abroad.

Back to London

by Deidre Brock MP I’m on a train, heading back to London, four days after the election. The UK Government will soon be cracking the whip to get its Brexit Bill through.

If it succeeds then Brexit will move to the next stage after January.

That’s the transition period while negotiations on the future relationship begin. It looks like those negotiations will grind on and it’s safe to assume that there

will be extensions to the transition period to accommodate them.

We’ll still be in the EU but won’t be a Member State.The huge majority the Conservatives got across England for their Brexit manifesto – 345 seats to Labour’s 180, Lib Dems’ 7 and 1 Green – means the rest of us will be dragged along with it. I’ll fight every single step of the way to improve Scotland’s prospects and that includes trying to keep us in the EU. Scotland deserves better than this.

Local Politicians have their say

Proportional representation paints Westminster in different colours The Electoral Reform Society reported that researchers modelled the General Election result under a form of proportional representation, rather than first past the post which is currently used.

Modelled under the voting system used in the European Parliament election (d’Hondt list PR), the new total gives the Conservatives 45.6% of seats, far

closer to their 43.6% vote share and down 12 points from the seats they received under First Past the Post.

The SNP – who will also be over represented in the next Parliament because of the current voting system – could see their seat share move to 4.4% of seats under d’Hondt, closer to their actual 3.9% vote share. (The SNP back a move a more proportional voting

Seats under FPTP

% Seats under FPTP

system).

Other parties would have benefited from a fairer system – Labour gaining 14 seats, the Lib Dems 59, the Brexit Party 10 and the Greens 11.

In Northern Ireland the DUP (-3) and Sinn Fein (-2) would both leave seats with the SDLP (+1) and Alliance (+2) parties both making gains.

Seats under d’Hondt

% Seats under d’Hondt

Difference in Seats

Party

% Votes

Labour

32.20%

202

32.00%

216

34.20%

14

Conservatives

43.60%

365

57.80%

288

45.60%

-77

LibDems

11.50%

11

1.70%

70

11.10%

59

Brexit Party

2.00%

0

0.00%

10

1.60%

10

Greens

2.70%

1

0.20%

12

1.90%

11

SNP

3.90%

48

7.60%

28

4.40%

-20

Plaid

0.50%

4

0.60%

4

0.60%

0

Others (includes Speaker)

4%

1

0.20%

4

0.60%

3

New Year to sort Brexit

by Gordon Lindhurst MSP It is hard to believe we are embarking on another new year already! I hope everyone across Edinburgh and the Lothians had a peaceful and happy time over Christmas.

The closing weeks of 2019 saw the focus being on a General Election and nationally I was delighted to see a Conservative

majority Government elected, meaning we can get Brexit sorted and finally deliver on the 2016 democratic vote to leave the EU, and look forward to the benefits this can bring to Scotland in particular.

It was of course disappointing to see many colleagues lose their seats after serving their constituencies so well over the last two years, but the fact that

Working together

by Christine Jardine MP Last month I got my Christmas present early. It was an absolute honour to be re-elected as the MP for Edinburgh West.

But my win was bittersweet. The loss of my friend Jo Swinson as Liberal Democrat leader has been hard. She may have been the first woman leader of our party, but thanks to her she won’t be the last.

I will now continue to work first and foremost for my constituents and their interests, whether they voted for me or not.

And I refuse to stand by and watch as the Conservatives use their majority to close us off from the world and inflict yet more hardship on families that are already struggling to get by.

We must now all work

six colleagues were returned on a tricky night is testament to the fact the Scottish Conservatives remain the main opposition to the SNP and we will continue to stand against Nicola Sturgeon’s obsession with another independence referendum.

I am looking forward to another busy Parliamentary term and as always I am here to help on any issue if you contact my office on 0131 348 5948 or e-mail Gordon. lindhurst.msp@parliament.scot together to ensure that people who find themselves in tough circumstances have the support they need and are not ignored by the political machines who survive on power and division.

To do that, our political system needs to be more consensual, and focussed on the well-being of the population.

The election result may make that more difficult and longer to achieve, but it must not stop us altogether.

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POLITICS

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Unexpected victory

Pentland Hills reflections

by Tommy Sheppard MP Well, that was… emotional.

Surprising. Unexpected. And quite stupendous. That was the SNP’s victory in Scotland last month.

Nowhere more so than here in the capital where SNP majorities are now bigger than the tsunami of 2015.

This was a rejection of Brexit and Boris. But more it was an assertion of the right to choose better. I met many fair-minded people on the doorstep not yet convinced about independence but who agreed that it’s a choice that should be made here.

by Cllr Susan Webber Looking back on 2019 I do have to admit that it was not as turbulent as my first two years as the local councillor for Pentland Hills but nonetheless each day I strive to support the local needs of my Ward.

The state of the school estate is still very much a priority and although the threat over the futures of the three High Schools has somewhat been put to bed, there is still much concern. It was very much welcome news to eventually hear that there was funding for a new school in Currie and the anticipated opening in 2024 now has created a deal of energy in that community.

However, the pace of change for the plans at WHEC have been

And if further proof were needed that this election was about our constitutional future just look at the Tory campaign. They ran this on a single issue – no to indyref2.

They asked the people to reject the choice of independence – instead the people rejected them.

So now as a hard-right wing government prepares to take Britain out of Europe we will press that claim of right like never before. And if Johnson refuses to listen, he will become the best recruiting sergeant the cause of self-government could ever wish for

Right to decide is ours

by Joanna Cherry QC MP Can I thank all those voters in Edinburgh South West who returned me as MP for the Constituency, and can I assure everyone who lives in the Constituency that as your MP I am there to represent you whichever way you voted.

I am returning to Westminster where the Conservatives have a dominant majority. Unfortunately, they can push through Johnson’s Brexit. Any possibility of a People’s Vote on the UK’s EU membership is now dead.

During the election campaign I met many people who had voted against Scottish independence in 2014 but had changed their

position. Some because they want to remain in the EU, some because they want to escape from Boris and some because they are appalled at the chaos we saw at Westminster over Brexit.

Obviously, myself and the strengthened SNP Group at Westminster will do all we can to achieve a second referendum, but I would ask all democrats to now support the right of the Scottish Parliament to decide on that, with no veto from Downing Street. The Conservatives have now lost in 16 General Elections in Scotland.

They have no mandate to block a referendum if the Scottish Parliament votes for it, as it has. It is our right to decide not Boris’s.

Getting back to the day job after Xmas

by Daniel Johnson MSP At this time of year, it is hard not to reflect on the past 12 months.

I was elated to see Ian Murray returned as MP for Edinburgh South but incredibly disheartened at the Labour losses across the country. It’s clear a change in direction is needed to win back the trust of voters.

Throughout 2019 I was proud to challenge The Scottish Government on its record, especially on health. Edinburgh readers will not need to be

reminded of the ongoing Sick Kids Hospital fiasco and questioning Ministers on their record here is a cause I will take with me into 2020.

It is also more important than ever now to look to the future.

The Christmas break will provide some rest bite, but January will see me return to the Scottish Parliament refreshed and energised to challenge the damaging prospects of Brexit and another Scottish independence referendum.

glacial, with not even the name change to Wester Hailes High School coming to fruition. There may be activity going on but there is very little physical evidence of the much-needed improvements that gained committee approval back in June 2018.

9

And following a recent visit to Balerno High School the reality of the circumstances this school and its pupils face is stark. With funding not even in the pipeline until 2028, it is looking as if the current building will have to serve as the school now well into 2032.

I was particularly shocked with the state of the science department and I heard first hand about some of the teaching choices that must be made to compensate for the lack of basics such as sinks.

The fight to save our local schools has taken on a new form, and I will continue to strive to ensure our pupils across my ward and in the other Wave 4 schools have the very best learning environment. They are, after all, our future.

Time to stop NHS underfunding

by Miles Briggs MSP As Health Secretaries have come and gone each has been content to stand by and allow NHS Lothian to remain the lowest funded NHS board per head in Scotland receiving less money per person to deliver health care services, than patients in other parts of Scotland.

Under the controversial NHS

Resource Allocation Committee (NRAC), last year NHS Lothian received £11 million less than it should have under this approach.

I know from conversations with NHS Lothian that this is impacting on decisions and the ability to meet the health needs of communities across Lothian. That has to change and we need to see SNP Ministers deliver fairness.

Time for bold action

by Alison Johnstone MSP The election result was terrible news for the poor and disenfranchised, for disabled people, for EU citizens and refugees.

But we can’t simply say our hands are tied until independence comes along.

We need to continue to be bold and progressive with the powers we already have in Scotland so that we can defend our rights and support our most vulnerable through the hard times.

That means being bold within the current framework - rebuilding our public sector, giving councils the powers they need to support

Time to build bridges

by Ian Murray MP It was a privilege to be re-elected by the people of Edinburgh South to be their MP. I will always put the people of this constituency first, and I pledge to work tirelessly on your behalf. But the election result was bittersweet. It delivered a

Conservative majority government with the worst Prime Minister this country has ever seen.

The Labour Party let down millions of people across the UK. For the sake of the country, we need not just a new leader but a new direction as well.

We are now facing the prospect

Miles Briggs MSP 0131 348 5946 Miles.Briggs.msp@parliament.scot Milesbriggsedinburgh MilesBriggsMSP www.milesbriggs.scot M2.15, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP

At a UK Government level, Scottish Conservative MPs have delivered record levels of funding for our Scottish NHS. However, over the last 12 years SNP Ministers have short changed NHS Boards across Scotland. It’s time for that to end and for SNP Ministers to end the underfunding of NHS Lothian.

the vulnerable and protecting Scotland’s NHS from market forces.

It means taking radical action to cut our greenhouse gas emissions from heating and transport so that by the time the COP26 summit comes to Glasgow next year Boris Johnson and his government will be embarrassed by their inaction and the comparison to what is happening in Scotland. We can’t lose hope. of a hard Brexit, which will hurt the poorest the hardest.

And we face renewed calls from the SNP for a divisive second independence referendum, which is the very last thing this country needs.

I will continue to fight against nationalism in all its forms.

Unlike Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon, I believe in building bridges, not borders.

The Edinburgh Reporter

10 POLITICS

Spotlight on Sarah Boyack Sarah Boyack was first elected at the very beginning of The Scottish Parliament in 1999, then she lost her seat and has come back ready to deal with housing and planning matters which is where her specialism lies.

She was formerly Minister for Transport and Environment and then Minister for Transport and Planning introducing one of Scottish Labour's best known policies - free travel for those over 60. She has represented both the Edinburgh Central constituency and has been a list MSP. She is now spokesperson for Communities and Local Government. Sarah spoke to us during a busy day at Holyrood a few weeks ago and we had to leave the interview to the side while the General Election campaign diverted our attention.

We asked what she had been doing in the two years away from Holyrood. She replied : “Well, the first few months, I went in and started working at Heriot-Watt University where I used to be a lecturer before I got elected in 1999. I taught town planning

students architects chartered surveyors building engineers. And what really struck me was how far things have moved on in terms of young people's awareness of climate change, and how we re-engineer our towns and cities so I did that up until the April of 2017.

"And then I got a job with The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, which was fantastic because for somebody who has campaigned for affordable housing for all my adult life to be able to go in and lobby for that was great.

"And the way I describe it as

when I was in the parliament first off, I used to get complaints and used to deal with constituents' issues going directly to housing associations or private landlords or the council, then I got to see the best of housing associations for two and a half years. And now I'm back - I'm back dealing with where things have gone wrong, antisocial behaviour, getting people the right tenancy or accessible housing.

So it's a really useful experience to have.

"And I kind of feel I'm back in the thick of it now back in the parliament."

My hopes for the year ahead…

by Jeremy Balfour MSP As my family sat round the dinner table discussing our new year’s resolutions, it made me think about what my hopes are for Scotland over the next year, a few of which I would like to with you.

Firstly, in light of the recent election, it is my hope that Brexit will be delivered and that we can

get back to the issues that really matter. For too long debates around Brexit have distracted from the day-to-day issues that our parliaments are here to deal with.

It is time to get the job done and put it behind us.

Secondly, last year the Scottish Government adopted a bill that I introduced to ensure that more regulations were placed on pet

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shops. It is my hope that animals in pet shops will have better protection by the end of 2020.

Lastly, and on a slightly more personal note, I hope that this year my beloved football team, Hearts, win the Scottish Cup. You may think that I am a dreamer, but after last year’s close final I am confident that it can be achieved.

Remember the manifestos Now that the dust has settled, it is perhaps time to reflect on the General Election results and remember what the political manifestos promised.

There are 650 elected MPs at Westminster, 365 are Conservatives and 47 are SNP MPs. (48 if you count Neale Hanvey who stood as an SNP candidate in Kirkcaldy, but lost the backing of the party over anti-Semitic posts. He will begin by sitting as an independent MP he but after due process he could be welcomed back to the SNP in future.)

There is one Labour MP in Scotland, Ian Murray who represents Edinburgh South.

Murray has been in that position before in 2015 and issued a stark warning to the Labour party who had a disastrous election.

Alyn Smith has been elected to Westminster to represent Stirling, having been a Scottish MEP for 15 years.

There are 11 Liberal Democrat MPs, of whom four are Scottish

including Christine Jardine who represents Edinburgh West.

The Conservative government has an overall majority which should be enough to see through Mr Johnson's Brexit plans.

It appears to us that the two manifestos which need to be re-examined are both the Conservative and the SNP pledges to the nation made only a few weeks before the election.

Even if you don't agree with the political beliefs on which either one is based, these documents will map the political landscape from 2020 onwards.

You can read both of the manifestos on our website by scanning the QR code here.

Community Council Election Eleven members were elected to Leith Links Community Council in late October 2019.

They are : Gail Clapton , Abby Cunningham Angus Hardie, David Igoe, Rafiqul Islam, Sally Millar,

Andrew MacKenzie, Christine Reid, Jim Scanlon – Chair, Eileen Simpson and Michael Traill.

There are now eleven elected Community Councillors out of a possible twelve and there are also six vacancies for nominated representatives of local interest groups.

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Edinburgh South Murray is sole Labour MP in Scotland (again) Ian Murray had a very strong message to Jeremy Corbyn, the Prime Minister and the people who voted for him. He said : ““Tonight’s been a difficult night for the Labour Party. I’m sick of standing at lecterns during general election campaigns and saying it’s been a difficult night for the Labour Party.

“This party must listen and this party must respond or this party will die. The saddest indictment of this General Election campaign is the delivery of the Conservative majority government with the worst Prime Minister this country has ever seen. That is a sad indictment.”

Murray won a majority of 11,095 which was down a few thousand on his 2017 margin. The turnout in Edinburgh South was 75.3%.

The results were as follows : Alan Beal Scottish Liberal Democrats 3,819 votes

Nick Cook Scottish Conservative and Unionist 8,161 votes Catriona MacDonald 12,650 votes Ian Murray Scottish Labour Party 23,745 votes Kate Nevens Scottish Green Party 1,357 votes

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POLITICS 11

Election numbers in Edinburgh Edinburgh’s population: 519,000 (2018) Scotland’s population: 5.44m (2018) Number of people registered to vote in Edinburgh: 362,956 Around 20,000 residents registered to vote between the notice of election on 8 November

and the registration deadline of 26 November Number of people registered for postal votes: 72,664 Number of postal votes returned as of 11/12/19: 52,636 (72%) Number of polling places in Edinburgh: 141

Number of polling stations in Edinburgh: 298 Number of ballot boxes: 423 Number of people working as polling staff: 629 Number of count staff working at Edinburgh’s UK Parliamentary General Election count: 600

Edinburgh South West

Edinburgh East The SNP’s Tommy Sheppard returned to Westminster with an increased majority of 10,417.

The votes were as follows : Sheila Gilmore Scottish Labour Party 12,748 votes Claire Miller Scottish Green Party 2,064 votes Eleanor Price Scottish Conservative and Unionist 6,549 votes Jill Reilly Scottish Liberal Democrats 3,289 votes Tommy Sheppard SNP 23,165 votes In his speech Mr Sheppard warned Boris Johnson to start listening to Scotland. He said :

edinburghreporter

“It has been a remarkable result and I very much want to thank the people of Edinburgh East for putting their faith in me and returning me to parliament for a third time.”

He recognised that some of the people who voted for him were not naturally SNP voters, and might not even agree with Scottish independence at this time. But he explained that they agree that this decision should be made in Scotland and nowhere else.

“We have a mandate for the third time since 2014 to oppose Boris Johnson’s government, to try and oppose even at these final hours the Brexit the United Kingdom is contemplating and to assert the principle that the people here have the right to choose a better form of government should they so wish. From Monday morning we will prosecute that and fight for that mandate.

“Boris Johnson had better start listening to the people of Scotland, because if he doesn’t the people will take matters into their own hands, and decide their own future whether he likes it or not.”

Edinburgh West

Cherry returned to Westminster with improved majority Joanna Cherry QC has been both vocal and high profile during Brexit so far. She has been at the forefront of several court actions in the Court of Session and the Supreme Court in London, trying every way possible to stop it from happening.

Ms Cherry improved her majority in 2019 and was returned with a margin of 11,982 votes.

The votes cast in Edinburgh South West were as follows : David Ballantine Brexit Party 625 votes

Mev Brown Social Democratic Party Scotland 114 votes Joanna Cherry SNP 24,830 votes Sophie Cooke Scottish Labour Party 7,478 votes Tom Inglis Scottish Liberal Democrats 4,971 Callum Laidlaw Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party 12,848 votes Ben Parker Scottish Green Party 1,265 votes The turnout in this constituency was 71% which is marginally up on 2017.

Edinburgh North and Leith Brock returned for third time.

Deidre Brock said she will continue to represent the views of the people of Edinburgh North and Leith and will continue to hold the Conservative government to account.

With a majority of 12,808 votes Brock was favourite by far over her nearest rival and former councillor colleague Gordon Munro of the Labour and Cooperative Party.

The results were as follows : Heather Astbury Renew Party 138 votes Deidre Brock SNP 25,925 votes Steve Burgess Scottish Green Party 1,971 votes Iain McGill Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party 11,000 votes Gordon Munro Labour and Cooperative Party 13,117 votes Robert Speirs Brexit Party 558 votes

The results in Edinburgh West were decisive with a 75.4% turnout, a small increase on 2017.

Craig Bolton Scottish Labour Party 4,460 votes Elaine Gunn Scottish Green Party 1,027 votes Graham Hutchison Scottish Conservative and Unionist 9,283 votes Christine Jardine Scottish Liberal Democrats 21,766 votes (majority of 3,769) Sarah Masson SNP 17,997 votes Jardine made her victory speech from the stage at Ingliston

when she lamented that Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson had lost her seat.

She explained that it was Swinson had encouraged her to get into politics saying : “For those of us in the Liberal Democrats who believe in the United Kingdom and the EU we have a bit of a battle on our hands on both sides of the border.

"We will hold this government to account on climate change, education, health and attacking the poverty that has become such a growing ill in British society.”

Bruce Wilson Scottish Liberal Democrats 6,635 votes Ms Brock said that the result showed that Scotland has rejected Brexit and Tory austerity.

She said : “Well. what a wonderful result for a wonderful team. But this result tonight shows that Scotland has overwhelmingly rejected Brexit and Tory austerity.

“England sadly is in a different position.

“Scotland is walking a different path.

“The people have spoken and made clear Scotland’s future is their decision. Now from the SNP’s point of view, it is of course tremendous for us to win in Scotland.

“It is a crying shame to see what is happening south of the border.

I invite everyone who believes in a European Scotland to come and join us, help build a better future.

The door is open.”

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12 BUSINESS

Usquabae Whisky Bar - newest The Converge bar at Edinburgh Airport now open KickStart Challenge Passengers at Edinburgh Airport will be able to sample some of Scotland’s finest drams after the opening of the all new Usquabae Whisky Bar and Larder.

Located in the departures area, the venue features a hand-crafted oak bar and a wide selection of whiskies from celebrated distilleries across Scotland.

The bar will also offer a variety of premium beers, wines and spirits as well as light food dishes using ingredients from Scottish producers.

The original Usquabae owned by Kevin Doyle's Caledonian Hertiable in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End has become a hugely popular whisky bar since it first opened in 2015. It bills itself as the best

whisky bar in town and offers a seven course tasting menu as well as a wide range of malts offered as flights as well as by the glass.

This is the first addition to the brand.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “Promoting Scotland and everything it has to offer is something we do every day, so having a bar which showcases one of our most famous products is a perfect fit.

“We’re excited to be working with Usquabae and we hope passengers from all over the world take the opportunity to sample excellent Scottish produce, some of our finest whiskies and raise a glass to Edinburgh and Scotland before they go.”

Simon Watson, Area Manager of Caledonian Heritable Ltd, the firm that owns Usquabae, said: “We are delighted to announce the arrival of Usquabae Whisky Bar & Larder to Edinburgh Airport.

“Having been based in Edinburgh’s West End for the past four years, Usquabae has been an ever-popular destination for whisky enthusiasts and foodies from all over the world.

With a uniquely Scottish appeal and an unwavering commitment to showcasing local suppliers, we look forward to offering a true taste of Scotland for those departing from Edinburgh Airport.

“Expect great fare, rare whisky and a celebration of the best of Scotland.”

Lord Justice Clerk portrait on order A young artist says she is “thrilled” to be commissioned to paint a portrait of the foremost woman in Scottish legal history, Lady Dorrian, the Lord Justice Clerk.

The Faculty of Advocates wanted to honour Lady Dorrian, one of its members, on her achievement of becoming Lord Justice Clerk, the highest post ever held by a woman in Scotland, and has chosen Grace Payne-Kumar, 20, for the work.

Hong Kong-born Grace is an English student at Edinburgh University who spent two years honing her artistic talent at

Charles Cecil Studios in Florence before coming to Scotland. She won a commendation in the Young Fine Artist section of the Scottish Portrait Awards 2019, and her entry was voted the most popular in the exhibition by members of the Scottish Arts Club.

“I am thrilled to have been chosen for this commission,” she said.

“This is definitely the most prestigious achievement of my career so far. To receive this commission in my first term at Edinburgh University is beyond what I could have imagined for my

aspirations for this year.

“I am especially looking forward to this work as Lady Dorrian has agreed to sit for me so I can paint her from life. This is central to my practice as the flow of light is the most important element in visually describing the figure. This is also an exciting achievement as my grandma's family are from Dunbartonshire so are especially proud of this commission!”

Lady Dorrian commented: “I am delighted and proud that the Faculty have done me this honour, and I am very excited that they have chosen Grace, whose talent

by Nigel Duncan Mark Dorris, a Research Associate from Edinburgh Napier University, is creating sustainable alternatives to the petrochemicalderived ingredients found in many personal care products.

Using nanomaterials derived from a sustainable seaweed source, Mark’s formulations are fully biodegradable, ingestible and free of harsh chemicals and it is one of the ground-breaking ideas emerging from this year’s pool of KickStart semi-finalists.

A total of 32 trail-blazing entrepreneurs are through to the next stage of the Converge KickStart Challenge.

It is an early-stage entrepreneurial development programme for university staff, students and recent graduates across Scotland.

It is aimed at innovative projects embarking on the first steps of the commercialisation journey.

The 2014 KickStart winner, Chris McCann, CEO of Current Health, has announced a $11.5m

investment round.

Technology and engineering, life sciences and the creative industries are the most represented sectors this year with a significant proportion of projects focused on solving critical environmental problems such as pollution, climate change and waste reduction.

Dr Claudia Cavalluzzo, Director of Converge, said: “Every year we wait for the application deadline with trepidation, not knowing how many or what type of projects will come through.

"The breadth and creativity of applications that the challenge attracts never fail to disappoint and this year is no exception.

Semi-finalists will now be invited to take part in two days of intensive business training designed specifically for academic entrepreneurs.

They will then be asked to submit a business case with the best invited to pitch at an awards final in February when the winner takes home a £10,000 prize and the runner-up £5,000.

is obvious from the awards she has won, to paint the portrait.

“The Faculty was keen to promote the work of a young, talented artist working in Scotland, and showing such talent at the age of 20, Grace obviously fills the bill.”

Gordon Mitchell, Director, Scottish Portrait Awards, said: “Apart from her outstanding painting in the Awards, I am privileged to have seen her working first hand. Grace is a formidable talent. Amazing in one so young.“ Roddy Dunlop, QC, Treasurer of Faculty, stated: “Faculty are delighted to have been able to arrange this very exciting

commission. Grace is an incredibly talented young artist, and we look forward to the unveiling of her tribute to the achievements of our first female Lord Justice Clerk.”

The Lord Justice Clerk is the second most senior position in the Scottish judiciary, after the Lord President/Lord Justice General, currently Lord Carloway.

Lady Dorrian’s portrait will join those of two other women in Parliament Hall, Parliament House, Edinburgh, home of Scotland’s supreme courts - Dame Margaret Kidd, QC, the first woman called to the Scottish Bar (1923), and Lady Cosgrove, the first woman to be appointed a Court of Session/High Court judge (1996).

Leith Walk Police Box Pop up space Leith Walk Police Box will be closed for most of January but is open for bookings to anyone who would like to use the space for their pop up business. Reasonable rates. www.leithwalkpolicebox.com

Contact Monty hello@leithwalkpolicebox.com

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Old Town BID fails for now The votes were cast last month, but despite high hopes, there will be no Business Improvement District set up in the Old Town any time soon.

The business leaders involved in the Original Edinburgh BID told of their disappointment at the narrow defeat of the proposal but said they remained positive for the future of the Old Town.

The proposal won on three of the four criteria including the two turnout criteria. It also won a majority by share of the rateable value of all voting properties by a margin of 10%.

However, it fell short of the majority of ballots cast by 8 votes, a margin of 2%. There were 18 spoiled ballots.

Chair of Original Edinburgh and owner of the Royal McGregor Whisky Bar and Restaurant, James McGregor, said: “A lot of hard work has gone into developing these proposals which we believe would have had a transformational impact on the Old Town, improving the area for businesses and residents alike. We are obviously very disappointed. We would like to thank everyone who has given up their time and worked hard on the project and to those businesses who supported the proposal.

“However, despite the result, engaging with local businesses

about the issues that impact them has been an incredibly worthwhile and rewarding experience.

We’re confident that there is an appetite for a vehicle to represent businesses here in the future.”

Garry Clark, Development Manager for the Federation of Small Businesses in Edinburgh, said: “The Original Edinburgh Business Improvement District proposal brought together a diverse group of businesses across the Old Town and produced some very interesting ideas. Whilst the BID may not be going ahead, it is important that the momentum that was built up is not lost.

“What is clear is that Old Town businesses will need their voices to be heard on the upcoming issues that will affect them, including the Low Emissions Zone, City Centre Transformation and improving the quality of experience in the area. The work already done by the BID team must not be allowed to go to waste.”

Original Edinburgh was set up

to be a collaborative business improvement project to empower business in taking a leading role in the success of Edinburgh’s iconic Old Town.

They were to work together to deliver a varied package of investment to create a unique cultural, retail and hospitality experience, which would have optimised the use of our public space, for workers, the local community and visitors.

An improvement district is an innovative business partnership model which allows businesses to pool their resources and collectively invest in improvements to the local economy. The return on this investment, beyond what can be provided by government or local authorities, is realised through better business outcomes.

Evidence from elsewhere in Scotland and the UK shows that BIDs can have a positive impact on the local economy. For example, Essential Edinburgh has generated £23.7 million of economic benefit over the last five years, and significantly reduced theft. Falkirk has invested £2.6 million in the town centre, and given out £100,000 in small business grants. In Bath, they have achieved 75% fewer trade waste fines and reduced trade waste costs by 25%.

BUSINESS 13

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Gorgie City Farm may reopen in 2020 There have been murmurings about Gorgie City Farm reopening in 2020 in a different form. The farm went bust and a liquidator was appointed late last year.

The BBC reported that three charities have been shortlisted to take over the site and that the result of that bid will be announced in mid-January.

However that news seems to be just a little premature.

Cyrenians CEO Ewan Aitken said, "We are working alongside Royal Highland Agriculture Society of Scotland, Penumbra, the Corra Foundation, Thrive Edinburgh Assembly (NHS Lothian), Aberlour and SAOS (Scottish Agriculture Organisation Society) and other individuals to help find a way forward for Gorgie City Farm.

“Working together as a coalition will not only give us access to a range of expertise and skills, but will help ensure resilience, keeping Gorgie City Farm at the heart of the community, providing opportunities and services to those who need them most.

“We are hopeful that together, we can find a way forward that ensures Gorgie City Farm can reopen to all whilst allowing us to build on the support the farm provided, creating a multi-faceted space for the local community.”

Sarah Boyack Lothians MSP has had a close relationship with the farm over the years.

She said : “First of all I want to welcome the fundraising campaign which has generated over £100,000.

"This demonstrated the support and affection with which the farm is held. It has served the local community for many years and provides a fantastic resource for the city, and I hope that we get the good news that staff and supporters deserve.”

She added : “We are still no closer to understanding what went wrong in the first place and how the situation became so financially untenable. Lessons must be learned from the previous failure, and I want reassurances that Edinburgh City Council will take all possible measures to ensure the farm’s future will not be jeopardised again.”

However Council Leader, Adam McVey urged a little caution. On Twitter he said : "Let's keep the heid folks. Hugely grateful to those working for a positive long term future for Gorgie City Farm but we've got some way to go.

"I look forward to seeing what submissions come forward in the New Year. "

Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Murrayfield has been transformed!

To exceed the expectations of our guests we have invested £2.6 million to upgrade all hotel facilities.

You must come and see what we have done.

For the best rates book direct on leonardohotels.co.uk or call 0131 535 9988 187 Clermiston Road, Edinburgh EH12 6UG

The Edinburgh Reporter

14 THE BEST OF...

The Edinburgh Reporter Best Of...

Broughton Place Hair & Beauty A luxurious, elegant salon with a very happy and friendly atmosphere. They aim to make your experience a relaxing, enjoyable and glamorous one!

0131 556 4478 2a Broughton Place EH1 3RX www.broughtonplacehair.com

Ardgowan Distillery Enjoy the newly released Clydebuilt Coppersmith - a limited edition blend of malts matured in first fill Oloroso sherry casks. “…a super balance of sweet and spicy, heather honey, sultanas and very dark chocolate...” £49.99 shop.ardgowandistillery.com

Royal Scots Club The Royal Scots Club is one of the finest members’ Clubs in the country. It is now 100 years old and has an open membership policy. Join today!

0131 556 4270 29 Abercromby Pl EH3 6QE www.royalscotsclub.com

Torrance Gallery Edinburgh's longest established contemporary art gallery. Scottish artists. Paintings, sculpture, glassware and jewellery Join the mailing list to get invitations to their Opening Events.

0131 556 6366 36 Dundas Street EH3 6JN www.torrancegallery.co.uk

Mimi's Bakehouse Mimi's Bakehouse is an awardwinning family-owned bakery in Edinburgh with stores across the city and they currently hold the Scottish Bakers award for Bakery Café of the Year 2019.

0131 555 5908 63 Shore EH6 6RA mimisbakehouse.com

21st Century Kilts Designer boutique for quirky, off the peg and bespoke kilts made from tartan and contemporary textiles. Howie Nicholsby redefined the kilt that you need.

Strictly by appointment.

07774757222 48 Thistle Street EH2 1EN 21stcenturykilts.com

Little White Pig Combines the comfortable, unpretentious environment of a Scottish pub with tasty, local & seasonal food. Family friendly, dog friendly, foodie friendly place to bring friends and make new ones.

0131 556 3036 26B Dublin Street EH3 6NN littlewhitepig.co.uk/

Mind Generating Success – Hypnotherapy Practice A helping hand to rid yourself of unwanted habits. Contact me today to arrange an initial consultation. Evening/weekend appointments and home visits available.

07521 353 787 mgs-hypnotherapy-services.co.uk

Candersons Sweet Shop Debbie Anderson invites you to take yourself back to your childhood with all the traditional sweets in the jars at her shop.

0131 554 1401 102 Leith Walk EH6 5DT candersons-sweetshop. com

Joy Rides Edinburgh Lissa will take you for a hurl on Betsy the trishaw bringing joy, exhilaration and fun for all whether it is through The Meadows or along the foreshore.

07834 916 230 joyridesedinburgh@gmail.com Facebook joyridesedinburgh/

Open Eye Gallery Since 1982 the New Town gallery is one of Scotland’s leading contemporary private art galleries.

The Open Eye shows a wide variety of Scottish art.

0131 557 1020 34 Abercromby Pl EH3 6QE www.openeyegallery.co.uk

Serap Couture Serap makes individually designed, made to measure wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and mother of the bride outfits. ask about the shoes!

51 William Street EH3 7LW T 07582 601818 Facebook Serapcouture/

Cairngorm Coffee Robbie and his staff serve great coffee and even better grilled cheese and toasted bacon to keep you going. Two city centre locations. Free wifi and funky seating. Buy some threads!

1 Melville Place EH3 7PR 41a Frederick Street EH2 1EP www.cairngormcoffee.com

Meet Gilbert at Stewart Christie One of the best ideas in town in 2019. Gilbert is the phone box outside 63 Queen Street named after Sir Giles Gilbert Scott the designer of the red phone box.Pop into Stewart Christie get the key for the box and take your selfies.

All for a donation of £3 which will go to the charity Save the Children.

Teddy's Dog Grooming Teddy's grooming salon provides modern dog grooming with natural, ethical products. Mark has now opened his new doggy emporium two doors up from the original shop.

07842 482382 6 Montagu Terrace EH3 5QX www.Teddysdoggrooming.com

The Haven A great cosy café for breakfast lunch and coffee. Free wifi.

They don't take table bookings.

Fabulous cakes and happy friendly staff.

0131 467 7513 9 Anchorfield, EH6 4JG Facebook TheHavenCafe/

Skin & Beauty Therapy Specialists in anti-ageing treatments by Guinot. Waxing, nails and LVL lashes. Little gem run by Lisa and Heather both with over 20 years of experience in the beauty world.

0131 332 1099 25 Hamilton Place EH3 5BA

Epitomé of Edinburgh Independent ladieswear boutique and concept store. Brands including APC and Common Projects. Run by cashmere designer Lisa Taylor with products from her Cameron Taylor range.

0131 556 5554 35 Dundas Street EH3 6QQ www.epitomeofedinburgh.com

Craig Banks Tailoring Specialising in bespoke tailoring for men. The focus is on making the highest quality personally tailored attire that others will aspire to.

0131 226 7775 45 Thistle Street EH2 1DY www.craigbankstailoring.com

The Hideout Café A cosy hideout in Edinburgh serving speciality coffee, tea, treats and brunch. Open daily. And you can pick up The Edinburgh Reporter there too! Also at 5 Upper Bow EH1 2JN 0131 555 5289 40-42 Queen Charlotte St EH6 6AT www.thehideoutcafe.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN JANUARY Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals

Double bill at Edinburgh Festival Theatre Collaborating with a range of leading artists in dance, music and performance, Scottish Dance Theatre brings their productions Process Day by award-winning duo Sharon Eyal & Gai Behar and the critically acclaimed The Circle by internationally renowned choreographer Emanuel Gat to Edinburgh Festival Theatre’s stage as part of a striking new double bill.

Scottish Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director Joan Clevillé said: “This programme brings together the work of three contemporary masters at the top of their game and is a testimony to the

company’s artistic calibre. Bold, original and unapologetic, these works invite us not to be afraid in a time of widespread uncertainty, and encourage us to celebrate otherness and re-negotiate our individuality within the collective.

Our audiences may well find themselves at the edge of their seats as they watch the dancers take split second decisions in The Circle, and then instantly transported by the hypnotic Process Day into a land of myth and desire”.

Process Day is a sensory experience that transforms dancers into sleek, androgynous,

nocturnal beings guided through shadows by a futuristic techno soundtrack. Pulsating movements bond bodies into clusters of shared ecstasy and capture the universal drive of striving for fulfilment and release. This darkly delightful combination of cuttingedge choreography and club culture leaves the audience feeling its grip long after the piece is over.

Focusing on the dancers' acute relationship with each other, The Circle tells the story of 11 individuals, creating a visually striking and emotional performance. Each show is never quite the same as dancers

January at Birch Tree Gallery In January 2020, National Galleries of Scotland will exhibit JMW Turner, RSW will present the 139th Open Annual exhibition at the RSA (on the Mound) and at the same time the Birch Tree Gallery on Dundas Street will bring back Shetland watercolour painter Peter Davis.

Peter’s watercolours reveal themselves slowly.

The transparency of layers and clearly visible edges of each wash give a feeling of them being ‘easy to read’ and understand (almost to the level of being able to ‘count’).

Perhaps that simplicity, the

respond to each other and make real time decisions expressing their individual movement languages. Responding to Gat's highly distinctive practice, The Circle literally emerges in front of the audience’s eyes every night as 11 outstanding dancers collectively weave together intricate and ephemeral choreographic patterns. The work is set to a hypnotic score by electronic guru Squarepusher, and features stunning sculptural wearable art pieces by Australian designer, Thomas Bradley.

Emanuel Gat said: “It's been a pleasure to make work for such a talented hard working company.

The Circle celebrates each dancer as an individual and their own unique dance language whilst also telling the story of this collective and the relationships contained within it.

I'm excited for audiences to see these dancers in a new light and for the work to breathe as it feeds from their energy.”

Wednesday 29 January 2020 Process Day by Sharon Eyal & Gai Behar and The Circle by Emanuel Gat 7.30pm | £25-£15 (full) / £10 (student) Festival Theatre, 13-29 Nicolson St, EH8 9FT www.capitaltheatres.com

absence of unnecessary detail, gives a great sense of comfort.

After all, our lives are full of ‘noise’, complexity and distractions, and there is none of that in these watercolours.

There is nothing complicated or ‘muddled’ in Peter’s work – they truly represent Shetland’s landscape, raw and simple, composed in limited palette and defined by intersecting edges on a large scale.

Birch Tree Gallery, 23A Dundas Street, EH3 6QQ art@birchtreegallery.co.uk Tel 0131 556 4000

Instant access with the library Get free instant access to ebooks and audiobooks from Edinburgh Libraries this New Year! Thousands of best-selling books for adults, teens and children are available through the OverDrive service to read on your phone, tablet or computer.

It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your electronic Christmas presents and to save money.

No library card? No problem!

If you are over 13 years old you can sign up for an “Instant Digital Card” in seconds. All you need is a mobile phone number and the access code – Library2go.

To find out how to get started go to - www.edinburgh.gov.uk/IDC. This access option will be available from 7 January – 7 February 2020.

The Instant Digital Card gives you access to OverDrive for three months. However, you can keep on using the service for free by joining the library and receiving a permanent membership card.

Join online through www. edinburgh.gov.uk/joinourlibrary

Twilight Talk about Design The latest series of inspiring free Twilight Talks about Design focuses on Scotland in Europe: Sharing Culture by Design, 18.30hrs, Thursday 16th January 2020, Edinburgh’s Dovecot Studios. Led by curator John Ennis, four expert panellists explore routes that nourish our design links with Europe. Scottish Diaspora tapestry panels will be on display.

The talk also marks the start of a ‘creative cluster’ of free activities at Dovecot and Summerhall, including Wild Weaving Workshops, Weaver’s Tales, Exhibition Highlights Tour and a guided Saturday Stroll, all bookable in advance via Eventbrite.

Panelists: Mary V Mullin; Mark Watson; Emma Bond; Stacey Hunter

Got an event to share?

Email editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk with the details!

16 WHAT'S ON

Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals

Schools Writer in Residence appointed for Citizen The Edinburgh International Book Festival has announced that Leyla Josephine has been appointed as the new Schools Writer in Residence for Citizen, the next phase of its year-round programme taking the Book Festival On The Road.

Citizen is a long-term creative programme working in partnership with organisations in and around Edinburgh, listening to people’s views about the communities in which they live. Led by Scottishbased writers-in-residence, Citizen aims to provide a platform for communities to explore their connection to each other and their relationship to their local area, looking at how local conversations are heard or echoed on a national or global level.

Leyla, a poet and award-winning theatre maker from Glasgow, will work with a host of fellow writers, musicians, illustrators and other artists to inspire community members and school pupils to

tell their stories of life in their areas, and share their views on community, home and their relationship to the wider world.

Leyla spends most of her time teaching poetry workshops in which she encourages others to find their voice. She works in various different social contexts to create original, autobiographical performance and poetry collaboratively with all ages and backgrounds. In her work she attempts to present new narratives and asks difficult questions to challenge the social structures we find ourselves within.

A mini Book Festival will be held in North Edinburgh Arts and the Brunton Theatre in May 2020, which brings together the ideas developed across the previous eighteen months of the programme. Citizen will continue until August 2021 and will draw in communities in and around Musselburgh with the support

of the Brunton Theatre. The Book Festival will share regular updates from these community conversations on social media and at ontheroad.edbookfest.co.uk, enabling more people from the city and beyond to get involved in the discussions.

Citizen is part of Edinburgh International Book Festival On The Road, a series of events and activities around Scotland throughout the year, and is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and through the PLACE Programme (funded by the Scottish Government, City of Edinburgh Council, and the Edinburgh Festivals, and supported and administered by Creative Scotland).

Burns&Beyond in January 2020 Another great idea from Unique Events which took place first in 2019. Over 30,000 people enjoyed the entertainment then. The 2020 event will celebrate Burns on 25 January and also the Chinese New Year which falls on the same day that only happens every 76 years so it is unlikely many of us will be around for the next one!

The programme of traditional and modern arts and culture runs from 21 January to 9 February 2020.

Chinese New Year in Edinburgh is the largest celebration of its kind

in Scotland when you can explore the ever-growing links between Scotland and China.

China celebrates the New Year according to the lunar calendar, sharing similarities with Christmas and Hogmanay traditions. Each year is attributed to an animal from a 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac and 2020 is the Year of the Rat. Highlights include : 400 Chinese Lanterns at St Giles with a soundtrack and performances during the day and evening.

The Official Chinese New Year

Concert featuring the Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra at Usher Hall.

Burns&Beyond Festival Club at Assembly Rooms with concerts

by Edwin Collins and Rachel Sermanni and many others A Waltz Across the Carpet celebrates the life of Scott Hutchison of Frightened Rabbit The B&B Culture Crawl on 25 January takes place in the Old Town and the New Town. burnsandbeyond.com www. chinesenewyear.scot

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Frank Ross, said : “This January, join us as we showcase Scots-Chinese culture like never before and celebrate our traditions with a contemporary twist."

Women in Science Exhibition If you are passing through Edinburgh Airport between now and the end of the month you will be able to have a look at the photographic exhibition of some of Scotland’s most prominent female scientists. The exhibition of photos by Ian Georgeson is in the departure lounge.

There are 26 fellows celebrated and they are all women who are pioneers in their fields, including the RSE President Professor Dame Anne Glover. In each photo the women hold an object which is important to them and which represents their inspiration for their career choice.

RSE Chief Executive, Dr Rebekah Widdowfield said: “Through

bringing this exhibition to Edinburgh Airport, we are raising the profile of some of the best and most brilliant scientists in Scotland and showcasing some of the nation’s fantastic talent to the wider world. Our thanks to the Airport for their willingness to join in our celebration of these incredible women”.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “STEM is such a big part of what we do at the airport and is something that Scotland excels at so it’s only right that we promote the expertise of these incredibly talented women to the millions of people that come through our doors every year. We have an incredible story to tell and this exhibition will be the first or final chapter for people travelling out of Scotland’s busiest airport.”

Mid-Century Modern Conran to Quant An exciting exhibition is coming to Dovecot Studios. Exploring the origins of the enduring Mid-Century Modern style in the UK, and how artists and designers disrupted established ideas of British youth and lifestyle Furniture, fashion, textiles, ceramics, jewellery and printed material, the exhibition celebrates the work of design pioneers

Mary Quant, Terence Conran, and Bernard and Laura Ashley.

Mid-Century Modern highlights the impact of Scottish artists and designers on the lifestyle revolution, including Eduardo Paolozzi, who as a founder of the Independent Group in 1952 helped anticipate the British and American Pop Art movements.

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WHAT'S ON 17

At the Traverse this spring - seeds Shortlisted for the Alfred Fagon Award, seeds embarks on a UK tour in 2020. Sensitively written

by Mel Pennant, it tells the story of two mothers united in sorrow, unable to escape the tragedy and violence of knife crime.

Together, they try to face the hardship of protecting their sons one in life, and one in death.

On Michael Thomas’ birthday, his cake sits in his mother’s living room, its candles burning undisturbed. Jackie wants to clear her conscience, while Evelyn’s got a big speech to deliver on the 15th anniversary of Michael’s fatal stabbing. Are some things better left unsaid?

In our divided Britain, crimes fuelled by racism still happen; according to figures released in October 2019, knife crime offences in England and Wales have reached a record high. Hate crimes have more than doubled over a seven-year period with a spike following the EU referendum;

racial hate crimes make up more than three-quarters of offences.

Directed by Anastasia Osei-Kuffour (Typical, Soho Theatre), seeds looks to tell the, often unexplored, stories of those who fight to keep their children safe from the world in which they grow up. This compelling piece is about motherhood, loss, the lengths that a parent may go to protect their child and what is left after tragedy hits. It brings

insidious issues of race and gang mentality to the fore provoking dialogue in the hope they aren’t allowed to fester and infect a new generation.

Osei-Kuffour comments, Finding, developing and directing groundbreaking new plays is my passion.

I’m interested in how new writing can respond to current events and resonate with audiences, the way they explore the human story behind injustices in the hope of bringing about change, or at least starting a dialogue to kickstart action. I want to bring the people the world doesn’t see or care about to the centre of a story where they can be engaged with. I feel that seeds by Mel Pennant is a play very much in line with the work I want to create. seeds is generously supported

by Arts Council England, The Foyle Foundation and The Carne Trust.

At the Traverse Theatre 10 Cambridge Street, EH1 2ED 20-21 March 2020 www.traverse.co.uk

January 2020 at The Queen’s Hall Photo by Ian Georgeson

Oor Wullie preview

by Richard Purden Once you’ve had a bucketful of the festive season what better way to start your year than with Scotland’s favourite rascal Oor Wullie.

Almost 84 years on since the DC Thomson comic strip was first created, Wullie is brought to life for a brand new musical touring across Scotland. It was impossible to escape the spikyhaired character last year in the capital and across Scotland during Oor Wullie’s BIG Bucket Trail 2019 raising money for children’s charities.

Critics so far have been positive including a 4-star review in the Guardian which suggested nationhood and division are part

of the milieu. Directed by Andrew Panton, who brought Wullie’s Sunday Post stablemates The Broons to life for a musical in 2016 suggests Our Wullie is a "contemporary musical for Scotland.

“The challenge is how do you bring that two-dimensional illustrated character into 3D and how does he sound, what does he speak like. He adds that it’s also about “people's expectations. So we're observing where the ideas came from 80 years ago, but also trying to find that contemporary resonance and why are we telling this story now.”

Oor Wullie is at Edinburgh King's Theatre Tuesday 28th JanuarySaturday 1st February 2020

Sat 11 January, 7.30pm Southside of the Tracks Following 2019’s sell out anniversary show, John McCusker, Scotland’s foremost fiddle player, gathers a who’s who of singer songwriters and traditional musicians for one night only on The Queen’s Hall stage with House band: John McCusker, James Mackintosh, Ian Carr, Ewen Vernal, Michael McGoldrick, Louis Abbott (Admiral Fallow), Phil Cunningham.

Thu 16 January, 7.30pm Scottish Chamber Orchestra Telemann: ‘Alster’ Overture Suite Bach: Suite No 4 in D, BWV 1069 Lully: Suite, Le Bourgeois gentilhomme Rameau: Suite from Les Indes Galantes Maxim Emelyanychev: Director / Harpsichord Sat 18 January, 7.30pm Dunedin Consort: The Brandenburgs John Butt: Director So named because they were dedicated to the Margrave of Brandenburg, Bach’s six Brandenburg Concertos contain some of the most sumptuous and virtuosic instrumental writing in all of his output.

Each is composed for a different line-up, from the intimacy of concertos 3 and 6, composed for strings alone, to the bombastic splendour of Nos. 1 and 2, with their blazing trumpet and horns.

Pre-concert talk with John Butt & Kate Molleson at 6.30pm Mon 27 January, 7.45pm Nash Ensemble with Victoria Simmonds: mezzo-soprano Mozart: Piano Quartet in G minor K478 David Matthews: ‘White Flame’ – a setting of Muriel Spark poems for mezzo-soprano, piano and string quartet Brahms: Two songs Op 91 for voice, viola & piano Schumann: Piano Quintet in E flat Op 44 Pre-concert talk 6.30pm by composer David Matthews and Alan Taylor, past Chairman of The Muriel Spark Society, on the work of the Society to celebrate her writings.

Fri 31 January, doors 7.00pm Counterflows: Joe McPhee with DECOY plus support from Elaine Mitchener Now 80, Joe McPhee brings his

best group, DECOY to Scotland for the first time, made up of Steve Noble (drums), John Edwards (double bass) and Alexander Hawkins (organ). Expect soul and funk infused deep experimental jazz from some of the best players around. Elaine Mitchener is an experimental vocalist and movement artist whose work melds different vocal styles encompassing free-improvisation, contemporary new music, sound art, music theatre and dance.

The Queen’s Hall Clerk Street, EH8 9JG | Box Office: 0131 668 2019 | www.thequeenshall.net

18 WHAT'S ON

Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals

RLS Fellowship is open for applications until end January Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives through reading and writing, tells us that the Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship for professional writers is open for applications until the end of January.

Previous fellows include novelist Bernard MacLaverty, Makar Liz Lochhead, author and journalist Phil Miller, and poet and performer Michael Pedersen.

Writers based in Scotland are encouraged to apply, and the Fellowship awards successful applicants with a retreat to Grez-sur-Loing in France, a village that Robert Louis Stevenson himself visited frequently.

The Fellowship was initiated in 1994 by Franki Fewkes, a Scottish RLS enthusiast then living in France, and is supported by Creative Scotland.

It provides residencies for four fellows for one month each, in a self-catering studio apartment at the Hôtel Chevillon International Arts Centre at Grez-sur-Loing.

Travel and accommodation are paid for, and there is a grant of £300 per week to cover living expenses.

Grez-sur-Loing is situated at the edge of the Forest of

Fontainebleau, France, and was first visited by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1875.

He also met his future wife, Fanny Osbourne, at the Hôtel Chevillon. Grez-sur-Loing was attractive to Stevenson due to its well-established community of writers and artists, and he spent three happy summers there.

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for established writers to gain some time away in a beautiful location to focus on their writing.

"The roll call of Fellows is a prestigious list and shows the variety of work we have supported.

We hope many more Scotlandbased writers will apply for the chance to write at this iconic and inspirational place, which had such an impact on Robert Louis Stevenson's own life.”

Bernard MacLaverty, a 2019 Robert Louis Stevenson Fellow, said: "Grez-sur-Loing is a wonderful place to write.

"This year I spent the month of June there, thanks to the Fellowship from Scottish Book Trust, working on a book of short stories.

"John Lavery’s bridge and river

are at the bottom of the garden.

The wonderful Fontainebleu forest is a bus ride away. I also found myself catching up on Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde, Kidnapped – what a superb writer he is.

"And what a great time I had."

Mairi Kidd, Head of Literature, Languages & Publishing, commented: “Writers are vital to Scotland’s creative and social landscape here in Scotland.

"We know that many writers struggle to find and to fund time to write and the Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship offers precisely that, in a peaceful and inspiring location linked to the life of one of our greatest literary talents.

"We look forward to welcoming the new recipients of the Fellowship to the stellar list of previous writers.”

For details of how to apply for the Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship, and for full eligibility criteria, please visit the website https://www.scottishbooktrust. com/ The closing date for Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship 2020 applications is Wednesday 29 January 2020 (noon).

At the National Museum of Scotland David Ramsay, the King’s Chief Clockmaker Monday 13 January 18:00–19:00 Free Curator Dr Tacye Phillipson and Dr John C Taylor OBE explore the life and works of David Ramsay, Chief Clockmaker to James VI & I. Discover the stories behind these innovative masterpieces and the history of clockmaking between 1550–1750. nms.ac.uk/clockstalk Tyrannosaurs Thu 23 Jan – Mon 4 May 2020 Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Meet the most feared and revered of all dinosaurs in this cutting-edge exhibition, bringing the latest palaeontological discoveries to life. Explore the tyrannosaur family tree with life-size cast skeletons, rare fossils and incredible models.

Through an augmented reality experience and largescale projections, interact with dinosaurs in real time inside the gallery, and even walk alongside them as they explore Edinburgh. nms.ac.uk/tyrannosaurs

Museum Socials Friday 24 January 10:30–12:00 Free, including refreshments (call 0300 123 6789 or visit nms. ac.uk/museumsocials to book your place) Museum Socials are events for anyone affected by dementia and their relatives, friends and supporters.

The sessions are relaxed and informal, start with tea and cake, and feature a range of activities inspired by our collections. In January, explore treasures from the Scottish Life Archive. nms.ac.uk/museumsocials Chinese New Year Saturday 25 January 11:00–16:00 Free Drop in for a fun selection of traditional activities to celebrate the Year of the Rat. See a spectacular traditional lion dance, try your hand at calligraphy, make a lucky red envelope, dress up in traditional costume and discover Chinese zodiac animals around the museum. nms.ac.uk/chinesenewyear

Membership Offer

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JOIN IN JANUARY GET FEBRUARY FREE

Edinburgh's home for live music since 1979 Check our website for a huge range of music and spoken word events throughout 2020.

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GET MORE FOR YOUR MEMBERSHIP at the biggest club in town this winter.

Join online today at edinburghleisure.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 31st January.

Registered Scottish Charity No: SC027450

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Bigger and better Fruitmarket Gallery opening in Summer 2020 There is work being carried out at Fruitmarket Gallery to expand the display space and turn this into the newest contemporary arts venue in the country.

The £3.75m development will refresh the galleries and incorporate what was live music venue Electric Circus (and for those of you with a longer memory Buster Browns) into the new space. This part - which used to be a fruit and vegetable warehouse will be used by artists as an inspirational space.

The reopening in the summer will feature work by one of Scotland’s most renowned sculptors, Turner prize nominated Karla Black.

Black’s work was featured by the Fruitmarket in 2011 when they curated her solo presentation for the Venice Biennale, but this will be the first time they feature her work in Edinburgh. The exhibition will allow Black to spread a carpet of coloured powder across the floor in the light and airy upper gallery and, playing with the height of the new warehouse space she will hang painted and powdered cellophane off the beams. The floor there will be coated with reflective Vaseline to bounce light around the space.

It is hoped that the new

Fruitmarket will offer a space for partnerships to develop with other local cultural organisations and it will allow other arts such as dance and music to take place there.

Edinburgh based architects Reiach and Hall are in charge of the redevelopment.

Fiona Bradley, Fruitmarket Gallery Director, said, “This is an exciting year for us, as we work towards opening an inspirational new space for creative, collaborative working and our refreshed and renovated existing building. We can’t wait to work with Karla Black. There is a defiant force to her work - it is demanding

and disruptive as well as beautiful and inspiring. It is because of this that we invited her to be the first artist to work in the newly reopened Fruitmarket: we value artistic experiment and we want her to really challenge the new space. We look forward to sharing her insights with our audience.

As we work towards the reopening of the Fruitmarket we are using poetry, drawing, dance, film and performance to reflect on the spaces of the gallery from the beginning of the development through the refurbishment, marking the transition into the new and renewed spaces.”

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WHAT'S ON 19

January Film preview

by Adam Zawadzki A selection of awards season nominees is coming to a cinema near you this month.

Released on New Year’s Day 2020 is the satirical black comedy ‘Jo Jo Rabbit’ written, directed, produced and featuring Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnaork).

Nominated for two Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and seven Critics’ Choice Movie Awards, including Best Picture, the cast of ‘Jo Jo Rabbit’ includes Scarlett Johansson (Lost In Translation), Sam Rockwell (Vice) and Rebel Wilson (Pitch Perfect).

Nominated for three Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, and eight Critics’ Choice Movie Awards, including Best Picture, is the First World War film ‘1917’, directed by Sam Mendes (American Beauty), which opens on 10 January 2020.

An almost two hours film shot

with the effect of one continuous take, the expansive ensemble cast includes Andrew Scott (Spectre), Richard Madden (Cinderella), Colin Firth (A Single Man) and Benedict Cumberbatch (The Current War).

In contention for two Golden Globes and four Critics’ Choice Movie Awards is ‘Bombshell’, directed by Jay Roach (Trumbo).

Charlize Theron (Young Adult), Nicole Kidman (Lion) and Margot Robbie (Once Upon A Time In Hollywood) have received critical acclaim for their performances in this drama, released on 17 January 2020, on the exposure of Fox News CEO Roger Ailes of sexual harassment.

Tom Hanks (Castaway) receives his tenth acting Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of Fred Rogers in the drama ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’, opening on 31 January 2020.

Temples To Tenements PHOTOGRAPHS OF ARCHITECTURE 25 July 2020 – 10 January 2021 Scottish National Portrait Gallery 1 Queen Street, EH2 1JD 0131 624 6200 Following the

successful launch of Scotland’s Photograph Album: The MacKinnon Collection this winter, NGS will continue to explore the rich history of photography in a new exhibition dedicated to architecture. nationalgalleries.org

UNIQUE MODERN OFFICES TO LET

WITHIN A STUNNING HISTORIC SETTING SPACE TO SUIT ONE PERSON OR OVER ONE HUNDRED PEOPLE Whether you’re just getting underway or have a team in excess of 100 people, we have competitively priced space to suit. From single desks, to small offices from 250 sq ft, to suites in excess of 10,000 sq ft, our flexible space options mean that as your business grows you can grow within Eskmills.

WE CREATED ESKMILLS TO HELP TEAMS OF SMART PEOPLE SUCCEED IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELD Eskmills provides, in beautifully restored historic buildings, the basis for a dynamic working lifestyle. You will find modern workspaces, friendly 5-star service, the flexibility to grow, fantastic local amenities and an inspiring community with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Our management team is onsite to take care of everything so that you’re able to focus on running your business.

The Eskmills community is made up of 400 people, across more than 50 companies, from a diverse range of sectors including technology, creative, finance, charity, education and more.

We’d be delighted to introduce you to some of the organisations that have chosen to make Eskmills their home and give you a flavour of all that Eskmills can offer.

FURTHER INFORMATION Gavin G Scott 07982 716 633 gavin@cuthbertwhite.com

Neil McConnachie 07818 062 736 nmcconnnachie@eyco.co.uk

Donald Gillies 0131 285 5566 donald.gillies@eskmills.com @eskmills @eskmillsbusiness eskmills.com

The Agents for themselves and for the vendors and lessors of this property whose agents they are, give notice that: 1. The particulars are produced in good faith, are set out as a general guide only and do not constitute part of a contract, 2. No person in the employment of The Agents has any authority to make or give any representation or warranty whatsoever in relation to this property, 3. The images are correct as at the date of publication and 4. All floor areas and site areas quoted will be subject to final verification upon completion. Date of publication October 2017.

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TRAVEL 21

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Loganair adds two Leave it to the experts new Edinburgh routes Loganair, Scotland’s Airline has just announced two new international routes from Edinburgh – linking Scotland’s Capital to Hanover, the largest city in the Lower Saxony region of Germany and to the western Danish city of Esbjerg.

The new flights are on sale now at www.loganair.co.uk Flights to Hanover will take off from Edinburgh on Friday 17 April 2020, just in time for the Hanover Messe, one of Europe’s largest trade fairs which attracts over 6,500 exhibitors and 250,000 visitors.

There will be up to five non-stop jet flights per week from Edinburgh, with core services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and an additional Saturday flight operating between June and September.

Later in the year, Hanover plays host to the second largest Oktoberfest in the world, with nearly a million visitors each year.

Together with year-round business potential in the automotive and transport and logistics sectors, incoming tourism potential for German visitors to Scotland and Scottish visitors to the Lower Saxony region, Loganair is targeting over 12,000 passengers on the new route in its first year.

Flights from Edinburgh to the

Danish city of Esbjerg – already served by Loganair from Aberdeen – will take off from Thursday 7 May 2020. It’s an important centre for the offshore industry – oil and gas, and renewable energies – and a major export port in western Denmark. Flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, with the weekend schedules specifically arranged to meet the demands of leisure travellers heading from Denmark to Scotland for weekend golfing breaks.

“We’re delighted to be growing our operation at Edinburgh with the introduction of these two new international links,” said Loganair’s Chief Executive Jonathan Hinkles.

“Hannover and Esbjerg will both be excellent additions for Edinburgh’s business community, for leisure travellers and to attract new incoming visitors taking advantage of all that Scotland has to offer.”

Moira Scott of Connoisseur Travel suggests that you take a trip on the high seas this year and says that by booking ahead you will have your pick of the best cabins and hotels of your choosing.

The Silverknowes based independent travel agency has over 30 years of experience in matching people to holidays whether it is a tailor-made trip of a lifetime or the annual family holiday.

For 2020 Moira suggests trying out a far flung destination like a cruise through the islands off mainland Japan.

She explained that a cruise is the perfect way of trying out somewhere new that you may want to visit again, without initially

committing to spending too long in one place.

Moira said : "Far East cruising is becoming more popular and with a couple of weeks holiday you have time to take a flight and have a night in a hotel at either end of

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An epic circumnavigation of Iceland, this exhilarating adventure packs-in unmissable opportunities to marvel at awe-inspiring natural wonders, dramatic landscapes; magical wildlife; and much more.

Visit Reykjavik, gateway to the Golden Circle’s famous waterfalls and powerful geysers; observe puffins at Vigur Island on a boat tour from Ísafjörður; and savour Seyðisfjörður’s stunning scenery.

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your cruise. There are seven night cruises but a couple of weeks is the ideal length of time for enjoying a taste of the orient.”

Another top tip from the Silverknowes based travel expert is to book a holiday to Greece which continues to be very popular, whether your trip takes you to the ancient ruins or an island cruise.

The reason to use a travel agent is simple. Apart from the expert knowledge and choice of operators and destinations, if anything goes wrong they are on hand to help you out with the backing of ATOL and ABTA licences too.

Oh - and there is no additional cost to using their services either!

Tel Moira and her team on 0800 1707 233 to book your next trip.

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The Edinburgh Reporter

22 FEATURE

Some bars for you to try this winter A good night’s sleep Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar There’s no better time of the year for warming whisky than the festive period, and there’s no-one that does it better than The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (hyperlink).

You can cosy up in their wonderful ground floor bar, Kaleidoscope, which offers an exceptional range of the finest single cask whiskies money can buy.

Choosing whisky can often seem overwhelming, but at the Society all the bottles are characterised in one of their 12 flavour profiles, making it much easier to find your favourite dram.

Throughout the festive period they have a calendar of colourful events and intriguing whisky experiences, so be sure to get along and catch-up with other like-minded whisky lovers.

28 Queen Street, EH2 1JX https://www.smws.com/about/ venues/kaleidoscope-edinburgh

Whiski Rooms Continuing on the winter whisky theme, here’s another bar that knows a thing or two about the nation’s favourite tipple. Perfect if you find yourself wandering around the Royal Mile, and not far from Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, the famous bar, restaurant and shop offers more

than 300 varieties of whisky.

The relaxed environment plays host to whisky lovers and tourists alike, so whether you’re a malt aficionado or a dram novice you’re bound to find something memorable.

4-7 North Bank Street, EH1 2LP http://www.whiskirooms.co.uk/ Bramble If you really want to feel like you’re escaping the crowds (and the winter conditions) then consider settling into the dark and intimate surroundings of this notorious underground bar. Recently crowned ‘Best bar in the UK’ (https://www. edinburghnews.scotsman.com/ news/edinburgh-cocktail-barnamed-best-in-the-uk-1-4749911), Bramble really is a cocktail haven.

However, you’ll need to do a bit of exploring first, just look for the Queen Street venue’s mysterious staircase to discover something unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

16A Queen Street EH2 1JE http://www.bramblebar.co.uk/

With levels of cellars, candlelight and a tasty American food menu, it’s a place you can happily lose an afternoon (or evening) in.

3 York Place, EH1 3EB http://nightcapbar.co.uk/

The Bow Bar This iconic bar sits in the heart of the Old Town and is definitely one of the best whisky destinations in the city. They often stock more than 300 bottles of single malt, from fan favourites to real rare finds. Their selection is ever-changing as new releases are brought in, ensuring there is something for everybody The traditional pub is simply furnished with wooden fixtures and fittings, a beautiful mahogany gantry displaying their collection and old memorabilia on the walls, making it the ultimate authentic Edinburgh watering hole.

80 West Bow, EH1 2HH https://www.thebowbar.co.uk/

Nightcap This cosy, intimate underground bar feels like a local secret. With a wealth of interesting cocktails and spirits, you’ll be spoilt for choice and the friendly staff can guide you to finding your perfect tipple.

ESPC says house prices held steady in last quarter of 2019 Over the last three months of 2019, the average property price in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and the Borders stayed fairly steady compared to last year, with it now sitting at £248,235 compared to £248,320 last year.

In Edinburgh, the average selling price of a house or flat also stayed steady, sitting at £268,325 compared to £268,404 last year.

Within the city, the greatest growth in average selling price was seen in the north west with properties selling for £273,583 on average, a 7.8% increase compared to last year. In the south

of the city there was the greatest decrease, with properties selling for £293,169 on average, a 7.6% decrease compared to last year.

Three bedroom houses in South Queensferry and Dalmeny enjoyed the greatest year-on-year increase in average selling price of any property type, with an average selling price of £333,829, a 46.8% increase compared to last year.

This is due to a much greater proportion of higher value homes being sold this year.

There was a significant year-onyear increase in the average selling price in the price of three

bedroom houses in Cramond, Barnton and Cammo, rising by 38.6%.

This is again due to an increase in the number of higher-value homes being sold this year.

However, the average selling price dropped by 20.4% year-onyear of three bedroom houses in Blackhall, Davidsons Mains and Silverknowes.

This is due to a greater proportion of lower value properties being sold this year. www.espc.com

by Nigel Duncan YOTEL, said the promotional blurb, offers guests a completely new hotel experience. The idea is to take essential elements of luxury hotels and turning them into a compact, but smart space.

Bosses aim to deliver a sense of community with areas for co-working, social gatherings and exercise.Edinburgh is the brand’s first city centre hotel in Europe and the 270-plus bed hotel is centrally located on Queen Street, rubbing shoulders with the capital’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Well, what is it like? Check-in is automated by touch screen but there is a bod at Mission Control (reception) nearby if you get stuck.

Signs throughout are clear and your choice is from a Premium Queen Cabin (YOTEL speak for hotel room), perfect for two guests, to a VIP Suite for those extra special occasions.

Cabins all feature luxury bedding – believe me it is – rejuvenating rain showers, relaxing mood lights (you can switch to different colours), numerous charging points and a huge smart TV – great picture – that can easily be connected to guests’ own devices. Our cabin was compact and spotlessly clean.The bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in and you sink into the pillows. I enjoyed a great night’s sleep after lowering top of the bed by use of a convenientlypositioned button. There is ample hanger space and hair dryer and an iron are conveniently stored in that area. The ironing board is at the back of the open wardrobe. The easy-to-work, overhead shower was augmented by a hand-held. There was no shower cap, a point mentioned

by Mrs D, but the soft, white fluffy towels were a real bonus. Soap, shampoo and conditioner were well-positioned at the shower and sink and the toilet cabin –

separated from the shower by glass – was fine for me but I felt it could be cramped for a big guy.

Heating controls were beside the door and were no problem to work.

The rooms didn’t have a huge amount of available space and they lacked a desk area if you were using it as a business base.

The hotel has, incidentally, two interconnecting meeting rooms that can be booked for groups of between six and 50 delegates, depending on set up. The wi-fi worked and the room was ideal for our one-night requirement.

The social komyuniti – breakfast area – had bags of room. The offering – for an extra charge – was substantial and the menu included soya and almond milk, porridge (in a pot), cereal, pastries and a selection of cooked food.

The sausages were delicious and the bacon was lusciously smokey.

Scrambled eggs, hash brown and beans were also there. Apricot jam and orange marmalade (Essexbased Wilkin and Sons, deliciously orange taste) plus crusty bread or sliced with pats of Anchor butter made this a most satisfying start to the day.

Drinks machines – tea and coffee – are touch screen and above your head are displayed scenes of Edinburgh. A giraffe did, however, walk across the screen at St Andrew Square, a talking point.

Guests who do not want a full breakfast can adjourn to the coffee bar where there are morning rolls with bacon or sausage available along with muffins, yoghurt and granola pot.

There is a spacious basement gym – well equipped with cycling and walking machines – plus weights.

Our reaction? We’d have no hesitation in recommending YOTEL for a good night’s sleep. It was wonderfully quiet and the bed so comfy.

Catch the bus this New Year A resolution that is sustainable www.lothianbuses.co.uk

Join us on

The Edinburgh Reporter

24 FOOD

Recipe of the month Passion fruit Cheesecake, Cucumber Sorbet & Italian Meringue This month’s recipe is by Glenn Roach, Executive Chef of the Surf & Turf Restaurants in Macdonald Holyrood Hotel in Edinburgh.

Passion fruit Cheesecake Ingredients: • 600g of mascarpone • 250g of cream cheese • 150ml of double cream • 75g of icing sugar • 1 large orange, zested • 1 lemon, zested • 1 vanilla pod • 3 1/2 bronze gelatine leaves • 10 digestive biscuits • 50g of butter, melted Method: • To begin, prepare your mould for the cheesecake. Place a 20cm x 20cm x 4cm pastry frame on a very flat baking tray so that the bottom sits flush against the tray.

Set aside • To make this vanilla cheesecake recipe start by creaming the mascarpone and

cream cheese in a mixing bowl. In a heavy based saucepan bring the double cream, sugar, lemon and orange zests and vanilla to the boil. Remove from the heat, strain into a clean pan and allow to cool slightly • Add the gelatine to the pan with the cream and stir well while heating through. When the gelatine has melted, remove from the heat and save for later • Crush the biscuits in a food processor or put them in a plastic bag and bash with a rolling pin.

Stir the butter into the food processor bowl and then press the mixture into the mould • Fold the cream mix into the mascarpone mix and combine thoroughly. Pour onto the biscuit base in the mould. Leave approximately 5mm from the top for the jelly and allow to set

5 minutes, until soft and pliable.

Heat the purée, sugar and water in a pan. Add the drained gelatine and let it melt into the mix. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to settle to room temperature • Once cool but not set, pour the passion fruit jelly over the set cheesecake to fill the remaining 5mm. Allow to set in the fridge for a couple of hours Italian Meringue • 100g of caster sugar • 25ml of water

•50g of egg white • Put the sugar and water into a small saucepan over a medium heat with a thermometer resting in the liquid • Start to slowly whisk the egg whites either in a stand mixer or with a hand-held electric whisk until just starting to foam • Heat the sugar until it reaches 121°C then slowly pour into the egg whites whilst still whisking • Turn the whisk up to full speed and whisk until cooled to room temperature – the meringue is

now ready to use Cucumber Sorbet • 6 cucumbers, peeled • 600g of sugar • 600ml of water • 100g of glucose • 1 lemon, juiced • Begin with the cucumber sorbet. In a saucepan, bring the sugar, water and glucose to the boil. Once boiling, add the lemon juice • Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and leave the syrup to chill in the fridge • Juice the cucumbers in a juicer then combine with the chilled sorbet base. Churn in an ice cream maker then store in the freezer until needed Dish Assembly • Take the cheesecake out of the mould and place on to a plate, • Add the Italian meringue to a piping bag and pipe on to the plate • Using a blow torch scorch the Italian meringue until golden brown • Using a hot spoon Rocher the cucumber sorbet and place on the plate on top of some crushed biscuits of your choice.

Passion fruit Jelly • 200g of passion fruit purée • 50ml of water • 50g of sugar • 3 bronze gelatine leaves • To make the jelly, soak the gelatine in cold water for about

Cutting a dash to the Indian

by Juliet Lawrence Wilson We can’t be far off the day when it’s announced that Edinburgh’s reached restaurant capacity.

Who in their right mind would want to enter the fray and compete with all the predictably busy but disappointing franchises with their enviable bulk buying ability? No siree.

So it was with some trepidation I kept my eye on the new Indian restaurant being fitted out in my ‘hood.

Replacing the rather bizarre but not unattractive Elbe Room on Salamander Street, Cutting Chaii looked smarter by the day.

Every time I passed I sucked air through my teeth and shook my

head. What fools and their money, I thought!

As there’s a rally cry in Leith to support local businesses, now more than ever with the tramworks, the family Wilson decided to give our new neighbours a try. Cutting Chaii is a charming and cosy space and a lot of thought has gone into making it

modern and relaxed. It was warm too. I'm so fed up with having to keep my coat on in restaurants.

Even the lavatory had a heater in it.

What luxury.

The service here couldn’t be friendlier and a big fuss was made of my eight year-old daughter.

I found the food to be excellent and as the restaurant’s tapas style in their menu it’s great for sharing.

We tried some mini poppadoms to begin then a Royale Nawabi Chicken, which was like a slightly more aromatic Korma.

The Lamb Karahi was rich and spicy but the winner was the Railway Lamb, a meat and potato dish traditionally served on India’s first class train carriages.

I loved the subtle sweetness of this dish and its evident this

restaurant are using great quality produce.

You don't have to come here for a full on meal, its also open for drinks and smaller snacks. For a small restaurant they have a pretty decent drinks menu.

One of the best things about the evening was that the restaurant was full and from what I hear they’re doing very well on the takeaway front.

If they’re open on Boxing Day I’ll order one myself and enjoy some top Indian cuisine in my Jim Jams.

Cutting Chaii 18 Salamander Street EH6 7HR 0131 553 1000 cuttingchaii.co.uk

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FOOD 25

Juliet's Food Diary

by Juliet Lawrence Wilson Thank the Lord that’s all over. Let us pray the grass in Princes Street Gardens recovers in line with our livers and head to the gym. New year’s resolutions?

I’ll come to that later but in the meantime if you’re looking for a healthier way of life it might be time to partake of loose leaf tea rather than mulled wine. Eteaket, the popular Edinburgh tea shop and retailer on Frederick and Rose Street have thoughtfully stocked up on some detox health teas, such as their Green Yerba Mate.

Apparently it energises you as well as having a lovely smokey flavour without a caffeine hit hangover.

Eteaket is a lovely tea shop with super cakes and all their teas are plastic free. Sobriety and Greta friendly, it’s a sip to virtuosity.

I never refuse an invitation to the luxurious and friendly Bonham Hotel, especially when they promised a new art installation courtesy of and handpicked by their wealthy American owner

Richard H. Driehaus. (I could tell this gentleman had enjoyed much success in life partly because if you haven’t, you’ve no right having an initial in the middle of your name and also he had an entourage with him.

How glamorous!) With paintings

by Henry Singleton and Emma Stewart Wood among others, the new additions give the public rooms in the exquisite boutique hotel a note of added opulence.

There’s also a beautiful Tiffany floor lamp to be admired, thought to be the only one in Scotland. I attended with an entourage of one, my school mum chum Sara. We quaffed champagne and oysters, enjoyed the lovely music, doled out some relationship advice to the musician then ended the evening with too much wine in Harry’s Bar, sadly no longer the ‘grab a granny’ joint it used to be known as. Delicate heads featured at school drop off the next day but at least we’d has some much needed culture.

My first turkey dinner of the festive season was at Contini‘s Cannonball on the Royal Mile.

Situated just below the Castle this bar and restaurant is utterly charming and well away from the tartan end of Edinburgh’s most historic street. Especially if you have friends visiting from out of town be sure to dine here.

The food is locally sourced and is a tribute to Scotland and

their suppliers. To read about my other experiences on my Contini Food Safari, visit www. edinburghreporter.co.uk.

Most embarrassing dining moment of the year: knackered and high heeled I skipped the stairs and sneakily used a disabled toilet. I’m a terrible person, I know.

Not a believer in any form of ‘woo’ I did consider Karma was coming for me when the lock stuck and I resorted to pulling the emergency cord to herald the rescue party.

My dining companions hadn't even noticed I’d been missing, either that or they agreed to keep shtum. Perhaps they thought I’d fallen asleep in there, (apparently otherwise known as a ‘Half Elvis’).

On a more serious note, while I do believe the trams will bring more business to the restaurants and bars of Leith, it’s going to be a long time coming and there’s no doubt that businesses, particularly on Constitution, Bernard and Assembly Streets are suffering

greatly. From all the sports at The Fly Half, Leith heritage at Noble’s and fabulous Pizzas at La Riva to Café Marmalade with their bizarre display of shoes in their window, there are so many fantastic places to go in this area.

Please consider it for your next night out or Sunday brunch.

And also, only use lavatories you’re entitled to.

I embarrassed myself so you don’t have to…

We’re social! @EdinReporter

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The Edinburgh Reporter

26 FEATURE

Drinking in the pub around New Year, c1956, The Inn at Kirknewton, shared by the Living Memory Association. https://www.edinburghcollected.org/memories/5604 Edinburgh Collected is an online community photo archive managed by Edinburgh Libraries. You can add your own photos to help preserve the city’s history for the future.

It is also a good way for organisations to preserve their archives in scrapbooks online. www.edinburghcollected.org

Coming home

by Richard Moon I have worked in the Middle East for the past six months and it is lovely to return home to Edinburgh. As a relative newcomer here, I am torn by regret that appreciation of the city came to me so late in life but also by the buzz of exploring everywhere for the first time, meeting new people and learning about my new, adopted homeland. I have travelled a lot and always like

glimpse of a watery sun) to the summer heat, beating down like a remorseless hammer on a defenceless anvil. The argument for Brexit seems to break into dust with any serious attempt to analyse its consequences for the country’s politics and economy.

And I long gave up hope of Remaining, disgusted as I am at those who sold the argument so disastrously in 2016 and at the inability of the Remain parties to prioritise working together to stay in the EU for the national interest over temporary electoral expediency.

I exclude, easily and honourably, Nicola Sturgeon from that grubby

the challenge of finding my feet somewhere new and finding ways to make the time special and important. That’s not difficult in Edinburgh, where I am charmed by its charms and fascinated by its history and culture. It is a great time to return to the city, thrust as I was straight into Edinburgh’s festive season. I am an autumn/ winter person and so prefer the lashing rain and wind (and the occasional but magnificent

January Crossword Across 1. In Crewe, renovate this water jug (4) 4. In front of shop, awning conceals chess piece (4) 9. Tell sub to fire these projectiles (7) 10. Sound can be heard from others a distance away (7) 12. Round the waist belt can be wound (9) 13. New angle for divine

messenger (5) 14. Does this constitute a portion of medicine ? (4) 15. Lend heroes new pair of short trousers (10) 17. Initial source of energy might push MEP over rim (5, 5) 20. From Fife, form of land held on certain conditions (4) 22. In the grid I omit words in dialect (5) 23. I read text and hand it over for trial by a foreign power (9) 25. Go back to select cash-register without a chit (7) 26. Dee in TV show ? That is obvious (7) 27. Land surrounded by water lies over there (4) 28. Got a new robe ? (4)

Down 2. In Macaw he attends to this crop (5) 3. Inclined to laugh about bile, sir ? (7) 4. In this trip recede, or rather go in front (7) 5. Wrap hats away during military expeditions (8) 6. Ate bad mixture and subsided (6) 7. Nailing pails should be an easy task ! (5, 7) 8. Nicked from the Solent ? (6) 11. Energetic and lively, hid their pigs (4, 8) 16. Sal seems to make these without a join (8) 17. I pry or try to join a convent (6) 18. Eve sore about arrangement to superintend (7) 19. Beg to be included in teen art display (7) 21. Wonders if a set is arranged for the holiday (6) 24. Egyptian not yet ready to be imitating thus (5)

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bad patch. But in Edinburgh, I now see the argument the other way around and better understand the frustration Scots have with being ruled – and usually over-ruled – by a centralising authority hundreds of miles away. Whether Brexit gets Done or not, we are about to face the next national trauma as we consider the implications for the future fabric of the country of the past three and a half years’ lies, betrayals and the false dawns. It is not a pretty way to start the next decade of the century.

Although I always tell my diplomatic colleagues that hope is not a policy, we should give it a try.

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list of political failures. She alone and again has cemented her position as the country’s most impressive politician. Her personal standing brings credibility to the case she presents to the voter.

From London originally, I had an instinctive but entirely unthinking political and sentimental attachment to keeping Scotland within the Union. As a diplomat, furthermore, I can see the damage that losing Scotland would do the UK’s global status. It would confirm the perceived slide in our national fortunes on a long-term basis rather than – as our friends had tried to hope, charitably – the country simply going through a

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Inclusive not Exclusive

For adults living with a disability, finding the motivation to exercise can be challenging as there are many additional barriers.

The Edinburgh Reporter hears from Phil Trodden, an Active Communities Development Officer with Edinburgh Leisure how as an organisation they like to consider their offering as inclusive, not exclusive.

You may have seen that ‘dreich’ was recently voted the most popular Scots word. Sadly, it perfectly describes the weather here of late – grey, damp and altogether miserable. Gone are the long summer evenings when I’d go cycling, work in the garden or play on the beach with my wee boy. I’m sure I’m not the only one who now TG010783 Edinbrugh Reporter finishes work fighting the urge to

go home, change into joggers and eat something warm and stodgy.

Luckily for me, I’m fit and healthy and the only thing stopping me from being physically active at this time of year is a serious lack of motivation. Through my work with Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities Team, I know that people with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010, such as age, disability, gender reassignment and religion, often have a lot more to contend with when it comes to getting active.

Recently I met with Jane, a wheelchair user, who explained some of the accessibility issues she faces in her day to day life.

“Accessibility of is a 11:58 v2_PRINTFILES.pdf 1 venues 18/12/2019 major issue for me as a wheelchair

edinburghreporter user. There are so many things I need to think about when I’m going out, such as planning my journey in advance and phoning ahead to ask about disability access if I’m going somewhere new. When I’m out and about in Edinburgh, where there are so many old buildings that weren’t designed for people with physical disabilities, I often find myself relying on the kindness and goodwill of strangers to help me.”

At Edinburgh Leisure, a charity on a mission to help everyone in Edinburgh to lead happier, healthier and more active lives, we recognise the assistance that individuals need to access our venues can vary greatly and we pride ourselves in striving to make people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds feel welcome and valued. We already deliver our Active Communities programme, which makes it easier for people to incorporate physical activity into their lives. We hope that by making our venues as accessible as possible, ensuring our staff are trained to support people with a range of needs, equipping our staff with the confidence and knowledge to approach people who need assistance and offering a wide range of accessible activities, everyone will be able to escape the dreich conditions and enjoy getting active with us.If you would like more information on inclusive access at Edinburgh Leisure, contact Phil Trodden at philtrodden@edinburghleisure. co.uk or 0131 548 2100.

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FEATURE 27

Reap the rewards by booking holiday clubs Be an early bird and book by 31 January 2020 to receive a 10% discount on weekly Holiday Club places at Edinburgh Leisure for the February 2020 half term.

Enrol your kids in the biggest club in town for reliable and fun holiday activities. Edinburgh Leisure’s Holiday Clubs run Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm during the main school holidays – with early drop off from 8 am and late pick up until 6 pm – perfect for working parents.

Kids in P1 to P7 can look forward to games, the opportunity to try different sports, arts, crafts,

drama, challenges and educational activities such as learning about healthy food.

Holiday Clubs cost £182.50 a week per child but for those who book early, will cost just £164.25.

Daily bookings are also available at £36.50 per day but the discount does not apply.

Holiday Clubs can be booked directly with each centre or by telephoning the individual venue and take place at Craiglockhart Leisure and Tennis Centre; and Royal Commonwealth Pool. edinburghleisure.bookinglive. com/home/holiday-club/

PHOTO Phil WIlkinson

28 PHOTO OF THE MONTH

The Edinburgh Reporter

A view of Calton Hill and a deserted Waterloo Place after an overnight Snowfall. Our photo is by Walter McGillivray a member of Leith Probus Club who likes nothing better than walking in the city with his camera. He is a keen amateur photographer taking photos of landscapes, people and what he calls unusual subjects.

Crossword Answers Across: 1 Ewer, 4 Pawn, 9 Bullets, 10 Earshot, 12 Twistable, 13 Angel, 14 Dose, 15 Lederhosen, 17 Prime mover, 20 Fief, 22 Idiom, 23 Extradite, 25 Regress, 26 Evident, 27 Isle, 28 Toga.

Down: 2 Wheat, 3 Risible, 4 Precede, 5 Warpaths, 6 Abated, 7 Plain sailing, 8 Stolen, 11 High spirited, 16 Seamless, 17 Priory, 18 Oversee, 19 Entreat, 21 Fiesta, 24 Aping.

Get in touch today!

For editorial and advertising enquiries please email editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk @EdinReporter

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Want your photo featured here?

Email your photo to editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk

The Sketcher at your wedding The Edinburgh Sketcher can be hired to capture your wedding day in ink and watercolours.

Attending the event Mark will sketch the location, ceremony,

your guests arriving, plus any special details of the day which catch his eye. Sketching around ten drawings through the day these will then be printed into a book for you to keep.Â

Drop Mark an email at contact@ edinburghsketcher.com to see more examples like this one from a wedding at Hopetoun House, and to discuss details for your special day.Â

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FEATURE 29

At the top table

by Nigel Duncan Ron Kitchin explained how a short message from his son Tom has turned into a £12m business employing around 250 staff.

The chairman of The Kitchin Group said the story goes back over 13 years and it followed Tom working in London, then Paris, Monaco and Dubai.

On his travels, Tom had met Michaela who originates from Sweden and is now his wife.

She became hospitality manager at the Burj Al Arab, what is claimed to be the world’s most luxurious hotel, in Dubai.

The couple talked and Tom messaged his father saying: “Do you think you could find me a little restaurant in Leith?”

Ron takes up the story. He

said: “I found what was known as the graveyard of Edinburgh restaurants.

“There was two years rent free with it and we investigated and discovered why. Five different restauranteurs had gone bust in the past year.

“It was very difficult (at first) as we had a very well qualified chef in Tom and a very well qualified frontof-house manager in Michaela.

“Nobody knew about us and I had helped Michaele in writing the business plan and put down the cash flow, but nobody was coming.”

Ron revealed that he was in the street and in the surrounding area encouraging anybody people to try Tom’s food.

He added: “Six months later, to

be exact, the phone rang and there was a Michelin Star.

“People started to come and the restaurant was good and it filled and it filled and it filled.

“It became so busy we could hardly keep up with the demand.”

He added: “Now, some 13-plus years later, instead of the seven people we started with there are 250-something and there are five businesses including the hotel (The Bonnie Badger) in Gullane and about a £12m turnover.

“That’s all from a small business, but a heck of a lot of work.”

Historically, Tom and Michaela opened their restaurant, The Kitchin on Edinburgh’s Leith waterfront in 2006.

The restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2007 followed by numerous prestigious awards including Best UK Restaurant, Best Restaurant in Scotland and Best Restaurant Experience in 2015.

It presents modern British seasonal cuisine influenced by French cooking techniques using ingredients from Scotland's natural larder.

The group, whose food

philosophy is from nature to plate, also has other venues.

They include Castle Terrace in Edinburgh’s city centre and The Scran and Scallie in the Capital’s up-market Stockbridge.

They have also opened a restaurant in a former sports shop in Bruntsfield, another fashionable part of the Capital.

Finally, Ron praised their staff saying: “We can make nice hotels and lovely food but, without the wonderful staff that we have, we are nothing.”

Care Crew are here to provide a quality care service in our clients’ own homes

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30 SPORT

Historic plaque marks the spot

by John Hislop A plaque to commemorate the first ever international women’s football match between Scotland and England was unveiled recently

by Joe Fitzpatrick MSP, Minister for Health, Sport and Wellbeing.

The fixture which Scotland won

3-0 took place on May 7, 1881 at what was then Hibernian Park but is now the club rooms and car park of the Hibernian Supporters' Association in Sunnyside.

The Scotland women’s team head coach Shelley Kerr, and Hibernian Ladies’ captain Joelle

Jamie-Lee moves on

by John Hislop SWPL player of the year Jamie-Lee Napier has left Hibs to join Chelsea.

The 19-year-old midfielder signed for Hibs from Celtic in January 2018 and helped them win two SWPL Cups, the Scottish Cup, and reach the last 32 of this season's Women's Champions League.

She has been in superb form this season, scoring an incredible 22 goals in 33 games..

"It feels amazing to be a Chelsea player and I'm delighted to sign my first professional contract," she told Chelsea's website.

"From a young girl, it's been a dream and an aspiration of mine, so I'm delighted that I've finally

Murray attended the event along with Ian Young, Chairman of Hibernian Historic Trust and Tom Wright the Hibernian curator and club historian.

Mr Fitzpatrick said: “I’m so pleased to be able to join everyone here today to celebrate the first

done it with such a successful club like Chelsea."

Chelsea manager Emma Hayes was "delighted" to sign Napier, who could make her debut against Reading in the Women's Super League on 5 January.

"She is a really bright prospect," she said. "Her personality, her hard-working spirit and quality will add something to our squad. She is one we have identified for the future."

PHOTO North Edinburgh Community News

international women’s football match here in Edinburgh.

“Our women’s football team have come on so far in recent years and they did really well in the World Cup and they are doing really well to progress to the next championships in 2121 in England.

Joelle Murray said: “It’s absolutely massive, and with women’s football growing so fast at the moment there’s no better time to have a plaque.

“It’s great to see the club supporting this and so many people going along as well.

“I’m proud of the women who played that day - they were pioneers of the women’s game and their passion, dedication and commitment at a time when women’s football was widely looked down upon is admirable.

“There were a lot of hurdles and challenges that those women faced back then."

Coach quits Hibernian Ladies

by John Hislop Head Coach Grant Scott has left Hibernian Ladies by mutual consent due to a change in his personal circumstances.

He told Hibernian Media “I’m devastated to be leaving Hibernian.

“I’ve enjoyed my most memorable moments in football with these players and it was a very difficult decision.

“My life away from football has changed in the last year and it would be difficult for me to give the required commitment, time and effort to these players for another season.

“The very least the players deserve is a manager who can give them full support.

“I have life-long memories to take with me.”

Scott leaves having helped steer Hibernian Ladies to another successful season – both domestically and in European competition.

Initially stepping into the Head Coach role on an interim basis, he enjoyed an early triumph with the 9-0 Scottish Women’s Premier League Cup Final win in 2018, which was followed by his permanent appointment in the position.

His work was recognised by his peers, as he was named Scottish Women’s Football’s Coach of the Year.

During his time at the club he brought both the SSE Scottish Women’s Cup and a second SWPL Cup back to Easter Road as well as guiding the team through the qualifying stages of the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers last season.

Captain Joelle Murray will step in on a short-term basis to lead the team until Scott’s successor is named – working in tandem with the existing backroom staff.

The club have thanked Grant for everything he has done for Hibernian Ladies and women’s football in Scotland over the years and wish him every success for the future.

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SPORT 31

FOSROC SRU Super6 League Ian Jacobs sent us photos from the match played between Heriot's Rugby and Southern Knights in the middle of December which you can see here.

The eventual score was Heriot’s

22 Southern Knights 16.

This is part of the FOSROC Super6 tournament which is played by six franchise teams with part-time professionals. It is the new top tier of domestic rugby in

Scotland and the hope is that it will improve playing standards.

By developing Scottish players, coaches and match officials the talent should then trickle into the full-time professional game.

You can watch it on Scottish Rugby TV and the BBC Sport Scotland website. Each team will have at least three live broadcast matches with highlights from other fixtures available online at scottishrugby.org/ The six teams are Ayrshire Bulls, Southern Knights,Stirling County, Boroughmuir Bears, Watsonians Rugby and Heriots Rugby.

New signing for Strollers

by Thomas Brown John Dunn has signed with Civil Service Strollers after leaving Edinburgh City last month.

Dunn was the last player still playing with Edinburgh City's following their promotion to the senior league in 2016.

Strollers boss, Gary Jardine, was the man who lead City to SPFL and he is now in charge at the Strollers so knows John very well.

Dunn missed the entire campaign last season due to injury but believes he has found the perfect fit at the north Edinburgh outfit.

He said "I had a few options, to be honest, but I've got a loyalty to Gary from my time at City and Civil seemed the perfect fit.

"Guys like Mark McConnell and Ross Guthrie are there too, so the changing room has a familiar look to it.

"I had a lot of good times at Edinburgh City, but it got to the stage where I decided I needed to be playing more."

Dunn has fitted in well at the Strollers and already opened his goal-scoring account.

The January fixtures are : 18 January 2020 Stirling County v Heriot’s Rugby 19 January 2020 Watsonians v Ayrshire Bulls and Southern Knights v Boroughmuir Bears 25 January 2020 Heriot’s Rugby v Boroughmuir Bears 26 January 2010 Stirling County v Watsonians and Ayrshire Bulls v Southern Knights

Hope is a good thing

by Mike Smith The Scottish Cup can be likened to Christmas as it’s the time of the year when even fans of lower league teams can get carried away, their usually realistic approach to their team’s position in the league suddenly being engulfed by a wave of optimism, a feeling of ‘anything can happen in the cup’.

Edinburgh City are jostling with Cove Rangers at the top of Ladbrokes League Two and there will be those who say that getting promotion to League One is the club’s priority this coming season.

For other clubs, however, the William Hill Scottish Cup is a means of escape from a mundane season of mediocrity. An abject performance against Brechin City or a dire showing against Stirling Albion can be forgotten if your team manages a great win in the cup.

Hope enables fans to dare to dream. Clubs much bigger than Edinburgh City have endured more than a century of Scottish Cup failure. Supporters of Hibernian never stopped dreaming of seeing their team lift the famous old

trophy even if, until 2016, they hadn’t won it since 1902.

Their win over Rangers three and a half years ago finally saw their dreams come true and, while I say this through gritted Jambo teeth, I was genuinely happy for some of my Hibee pals of decades acquaintance who had nearly given up on seeing their team win the cup (It would be churlish of me to point out that while Hibs have won the Scottish Cup once in the last 100 years, Hearts legend Rudi Skacel won it twice in the space of six years…)Who’s to say Edinburgh City can’t pull off a cup shock by knocking Hamilton Accies out of the cup?

After all, in that season when Hibs won the trophy Accies were trounced 4-1 at Annan Athletic.

Who knows what will happen on 18th January? To quote Andy Dufresne, the lead character in that brilliant film The Shawshank Redemption : “Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things and no good thing ever dies.” So long as the City players don’t dwell on another quote from the film – “There's not a day goes by I don't feel regret".

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