The Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

he Edinburgh Reporter FREE! www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk Affordable co-operative housing, healthcare and nursery facilities, space for social enterprises and a multi-purpose community hall are among the ideas suggested. he city centre hospital will close when the purpose built Sick Kids next to Royal Inirmary Edinburgh is ready next year. here is competi‐ tion for the 122-year-old building from private developers who want to convert it into luxury lats.

Give us back the Sick Kids!

By Phyllis Stephen In what is regarded as a big test of the new Community Empowerment legislation, the Marchmont and Sci‐ ennes Development Trust (MSDT) is leading a bid for one of the country's most famous hospitals.

People living next to the Sick Kids Hospital in Edinburgh have submit‐ ted an application to the Scottish Government to be given irst refusal on the four-acre site being sold by NHS Lothian.

MSDT spokesman, Nathan BowerBir, said: "his is a signiicant test of the Scottish Government's ambi‐ tious plans to give the 'right to buy' enjoyed by rural communities to those living in towns and cities. "he hospital is dearly held by peo‐ ple both locally and across Scotland.

Whilst we're sad to see it move, this is a dream opportunity to bring this historic site under community con‐ trol and put it to the beneit of all of us - not just the well off. "he people of this community are driving this idea and it is clear they want more than what we have seen at other city centre sites sold off, where developers cram in as many expensive lats as they can and fence off any green space from public ac‐ cess. "his is a opportunity for ministers to show that these laws are not to‐ ken gestures, but in fact are signii‐ cant acts of reform that truly em‐ power local communities.

"People living here see the great po‐ tential of preserving the Sick Kids' heritage as well as revitalising our local area.

"We hope the Scottish Government

A Garden of Light of over 2,100 handmade daffodils celebrated the Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal at St Andrew Square Garden. Photo John Preece can match our ambition and the am‐ bition shown by Holyrood in passing this legislation."

Miles Briggs, Scottish Conservative & Unionist MSP for Lothian, said: "I hope that the Cabinet Secretary Roseanna Cunningham will respond positively to the request by the MSDT and allow their proposed community buyout bid to move for‐ ward.

Musselburgh Racecourse’s Kirsty Purves looks hot to trot in Her Majesty he Queen’s official Royal Silks to mark the launch of new raceday Easter Saturday (15 April 2017) which will feature the £100,000 Queen’s Cup. his exhilarating new lat race has been given the royal approval by Her Majesty following her visit to Musselburgh Racecourse during its bicentenary celebrations.

"he Trust have worked hard to en‐ gage with local residents and devel‐ op a range of exciting proposals that could see affordable housing and community hall space created and

boost the area's amenities.

CONTENTS

"here is signiicant community sup‐ port for the community buyout of this important site and a desire to see it utilised in a way that will max‐ imise beneits for all local residents.

P 6 TARTAN WEEK 2017

"he Scottish Government was able to support Portobello residents in their desire to purchase the Bellield Church and I urge it to provide simi‐ lar backing to the Marchmont and Sciennes community."

P11 All 2017 council election candidates P 12 SNP Candidates in council elections P14 Labour candidates in council elections P16 Edinburgh music scene P18 Edinburgh sports news

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he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

News in Brief

beneit their company's bottomline. he annual Easter Family Fun Day at Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre takes place on 9 April from 2-4pm.

Lots of fun for all the family includ‐ ing an egg painting competition with a free cream egg for every entry, and a fancy dress competition with prizes for the best Easter outit. Also a bouncy castle, egg hunt, Easter bonnets and face paint‐ ing. Entry just 50p.

Cllr Lesley Hinds the Transport and Environment Convener the City of Edinburgh Council and Cllr Derek Rosie the Cabinet Member for Commercial Opera‐ tions at Midlothian Council vis‐ ited Millerhill Anaerobic Diges‐ tion plant recently to declare it officially open. he plant was built by Alauna Renewable Energy a partnership of Kelda Organic Energy and Scottish Water Horizons, and it will recycle all the food waste from both council areas.

Photo Martin McAdam

It was Conservative Councillor Joanna Mowat who irst whispered the words Silent Fireworks, asking for ways that the visual spectacle could be retained but the noise im‐ pact in the city centre reduced.

Council officers have clearly taken this project very seriously, and the Corporate Policy and Strategy Com‐ mittee heard a full report which in‐ cluded comment from a Pyrotech‐ nics Professor.

Professor Dr John Conkling is for‐ mer Executive Director of the Amer‐ ican Pyrotechnics Association and he said : "Because they do not in‐ clude big aerial explosions, quiet shows cannot entertain a large audi‐ ence."

Councillor Mowat pointed out in her original motion to council : "he

ireworks set off regularly in the city add excitement, colour and gaiety to celebrations in Edinburgh but there is an impact from these regular ire‐ works on the residents living close to the launch sites and there are concerns that the increasing scale of such may be having adverse impacts."

She asked that the council looked into the impact of noise on health and wellbeing of people and animals and whether any damage to build‐ ings results from the vibrations from the large ireworks displays. he council report states that if qui‐ eter ireworks were used then the bangers would not rise just as high and so audiences would have to be much closer if they wanted to see them. Council officials have taken the view that this would not be such a great spectacle.

Edinburgh companies are invit‐ ed to learn from Scotland's lead‐ ing green business champions at a special event to celebrate the upcoming launch of the 2017 VIBES Awards. he free event on 12th April will provide businesses with the op‐ portunity to hear directly from previous award champions in‐ cluding 2016 winner and event host Edinburgh International Conference Centre and Edin‐ burgh Leisure winner of the 2016 Green Team Award. he Awards recognise and re‐ ward companies employing envi‐ ronmental best practice in their daily activity to cut down on re‐ source use, increase sustainabili‐ ty, improve reputation, enhance competitiveness, support wider sustainable developments and

Cllrs Lesley Hinds Edinburgh Council and Derek Rosie of Midlothian Council visiting the Millerhill Anaerobic Digestion Plant

he food waste goes in one end and the anaerobic digester then captures methane gas to gener‐ ate renewable energy which Scottish Water will use at their local water treatment works.

A t t he Nat ion a l M u s e u m o f Scotland, Chambers Street - he Tomb: Ancient Egyptian Burial runs until 3 September 2017. he free exhibition will tell the story of one extraordinary ancient Egyp‐ tian tomb across 1,000 years of use.

Built around 1290 BC, the tomb was reused a number of times before be‐ ing sealed in the early 1st century AD and left undisturbed until its ex‐ cavation in the 19th century. he Edinburgh International Science Festival 1-16 April 2017 • he world's irst and Europe's biggest science festival invites audiences to Get Connected as it ex‐ plores what it means to live in the Information Age. • 29 venues across Edinburgh.

• he Science Festival joins in celebrating Edinburgh's festivals' 70th anniversary and the city's spirit of en‐ lightenment, and cultural, creative and scientiic ex‐ cellence.

• Offering a rich and enter‐ taining programme for children, teenagers and adults alike, Edinburgh In‐ ternational Science Festi‐ val puts science at the heart of global issues and proves its role in building a sustainable future for our connected world.

• Edinburgh International Science Festival is powered

by EDF Energy, in the irst of a three year deal as headline sponsors.

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he Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) will host three Boys Ballet Master‐ classes in Edinburgh, London and Birmingham this April. CLOSING DATE: 10 April 2017 Each two-hour high-tempo class will be led by a male teacher, with live pi‐ ano accompaniment in a fun boysonly environment.

Designed for boys aged 7+years with basic ballet technique upwards, each masterclass will aim to encourage conidence-building, sociability and creativity whilst developing ballet technique, choreography, core strength, musicality, coordination and presentation.

Former professional ballet dancer Joel Morris, who will be teaching in Edinburgh said: "hese boys might often be the only boy in their dance class. Here, they get their own time. hey're not the add-on or the af‐ terthought. It's really good for them to mix with other boys who dance.

Instead of being the minority, they're with lots of other boys with the same interest. It builds a com‐ munity."

• EDINBURGH: 30 APRIL: Manor School of Ballet, 8 Hampton Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5JD TIMES: 10.00am - 12.00pm: Group A: Ages 7+, beginners to RAD Grade 3 or equivalent 12.45 - 2.45pm: Group B: Ages 10+, RAD Grade 4 or equivalent and above Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire is the grand inale of Edinburgh Inter‐ national Science Festival taking place on Sunday 16 April 2017 at Summerhall. For the ifth consecu‐ tive year it gathers fascinating, curious people who enjoy making things and who love sharing what they do. From engineers to artists, scientists to crafters, the Faire is a chance for these makers to show off their hobbies, experiments and projects, and for visitors to discov‐ er new ways to make their own ideas a reality. his year Edinburgh International Science Festival curates an even more interactive Faire, with soap‐ box talks from local makers such as MAKLab and Edinburgh Hack‐ lab, stalls from Edinburgh Remak‐ ery and Edinburgh Tool Library, demonstrations of making tech‐ niques from electronics to carpen‐ try and a whole host of projects from local makers to get your cre‐ ative juices lowing!

Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire, Sun‐ day 16 April from 10am until 5pm at Summerhall

City of Edinburgh Council school term dates Easter holidays Monday 3 April 2017 Monday 17 April 2017

Summer Term starts Tuesday 18 April 2017

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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where they would have pride of place, while boosting tourism in the area.

Online and paper petitions have attracted more than 5,000 sig‐ natures and there have been hundreds of messages of support from across the country and from overseas.

A letter backing the campaign has been signed by the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry KBE, Dame Barbara Kelly DBE FRIAS, Sir Alex Fergusson, Sir Malcolm Ross GCVO, Sir John homson GCMG, Richard Arkless MP and Professor E J Cowan FRSE. LeithLate will return this year from 15-18 June with a host of exhibi‐ tions, installations, tours and onstreet artworks. PLUS there is a onenight opening event across multiple venues along the Walk on 15 June.

Vikings at he Scottish Parliament Photo by Colin Hattersley Mid-term holidays • Monday 1 May 2017, May Day • hursday 4 May 2017, staff only day to coincide with Scottish lo‐ cal government election • Monday 22 May 2017, Victoria Day Term ends Friday 30 June 2017 Edinburgh Napier University has partnered with i4 Product De‐ sign, a Scottish design and engi‐ neering consultancy, to stream‐ line the design and delivery of new medical and wellness de‐ vices. he new collaboration is running under the university's SOLU‐

TION project, which aims to de‐ velop new medical devices and assisted living aids conceived by patients and prac titioners across Scotland both inside and outside the NHS. Established in 2015, the SOLU‐ TION team have already set themselves a challenging work‐ load of active projects with more ideas being evaluated for inclu‐ sion each month. Two of these projects are currently being pro‐ gressed in collaboration with i4's product design and engi‐ neering team. i4 Product Design was estab‐ lished 13 years ago by its four founding directors who are all

themselves graduates of Edin‐ burgh Napier in Product and In‐ dustrial Design, and Mechanical Engineering. he directors of i4 have steadily built the consul‐ tancy up to a team of 19 and de‐ veloped strong relationships with some of the UK's leading consumer electronics and medi‐ cal device manufacturers.

In an encouraging sign for the li‐ censed trade in Scotland, a pub which was said to "bring a touch of Paciic sunshine to Edinburgh" has been successfully sold by DM Hall, one of the leading Scottish irms of Chartered Surveyors. he 52 Canoes Tiki Den, which had the distinction of the biggest rum collection in Scotland with more than 200 bottles, not only went to a closing date but it also attracted in excess of the asking price from an established Edinburgh operator. he hostelry, described by the World's Best Bars as "bold, bright and lively" with a Polynesian theme and novelty drinking vessels, nestles in the heart of the capital's busy West End at 13/14 Melville Place.

he Full LeithLate17 programme will be announced in May with news of new venues and collaborators and programme favourites such as art installations in unusual spaces, live music collaborations, mural tours and parties!

Beltane is held on the 30th April and ticket are on sale now. For more information on this year's event, please visit: https:// beltane.org/beltane-irefestival-2017/

take at least a couple more weeks to complete the job. Dust and noise have exercised some people but that should be forgotten quickly when the foundations of the smart, new St John's Primary School are laid in May, as expected."

A competition to replace the Ross Bandstand has attracted entries from 125 teams from 22 countries. hat has now been narrowed down to just seven. he brief is to create a £25 mil‐ lion replacement for the band‐ stand incorporating a visitor centre and improvements to the surrounding gardens area. he Ross Development Trust set up by major donor Norman Spring‐ ford will decide the winner along with he City of Edinburgh Council in August. Designs will be on display over the summer. his is the third edition of he Edin‐ burgh Reporter FREE newspaper.

Editor Phyllis Stephen For editorial and advertising en‐ quiries please email editor@theed‐ inburghreporter.co.uk Pick up more copies of this newspa‐ per from he Queen's Hall Box Of‐ ice 85-89 Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9JG OUR NEXT ISSUE will be published on 30 June 2017.

Contact us now about your sponsor‐ ship or advertising package.

he former Portobello High School is being demolished as we go to press. Northield and Willowbrae Community Councillor Geoff Pear‐ son has a bird's eye view. His latest update : "he demolition of Old Porty High School slowed down last week so it looks as though it will

Suzanne Lawrie, Business Sales Manager, DM Hall, said: "his suc‐ cessful marketing exercise creates further expectation that the pub trade in Scotland could be turning the corner.

52 Canoes Tiki Den was offered to the market at offers over £325,000.

Former Undisputed World Lightweight Champion Boxer Ken Buchanan was presented with the prestigious Edinburgh Award for 2016. At a ceremony at the Council City Chambers Edinburgh's Lord Provost Donald Wilson proudly presented Ken Buchanan MBE with an inscribed Loving Cup in recognition of his impact on sport in the city.

Vikings joined campaigners at the Scottish Parliament to call for 1,000-year-old treasures to be returned to Galloway where they were found and not kept in Edinburgh by the National Mu‐ seums. (see photo above) he Galloway Viking Hoard (GVH) Campaign wants to see the inds inally displayed in a dedicated exhibition space at a new gallery in Kirkcudbright

2017 Women’s RBS Six Nations Scotland v Italy 17 March 2017 Penicuik HS former pupil, Sarah Law (facing left) celebrates the win over Italy. Photo John Preece

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he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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stage…

2050 Edinburgh City Vision he 2050 Edinburgh City Vision initia‐ tive was launched last year and is led by the council although is invited to have their say.

Council Leader Andrew Burns said: "City visions bring people from all corners of a city together to focus on major needs, force cities to look ahead and to generate new ideas. A key lesson from all other cities is that successful vision-projects can‐ not be seen as the preserve of a sin‐ gle institution. City councils are well placed to co-ordinate and facilitate the project, but broad participation and engagement is critical if the project is to be a success.

"So, it is important that as many people as possible are part of this conversation. he key challenge will be reaching a cross-section of resi‐ dents, businesses, partners and stakeholders across the city, to en‐ sure the Edinburgh of the future is meaningful to all of us.

"So, do give your views on what you think makes Edinburgh great, what you feel could be better, and your own personal vision for #Edin‐ burgh2050."

Cllr Lesley Hinds is Transport and Environment Convener in the capital. She said : "In May 2017, when I step down from the council, I will have worked as a councillor for 33 years. During this time I have stood and been elected in eight local council elections, serving under several different administrations and holding a variety of roles, from Leader of the Council to Lord Provost.

"Times have changed a great deal since I was irst elected to the Telford ward in 1984 - both in Edinburgh and further aield.

Back then, the capital's popula‐ tion was in decline, several gap sites were in real need of devel‐ opment and countrywide unem‐ ployment was at a record high.

"Since then, we have seen a rise in affordable homes, investment in the regeneration of some of Edinburgh's most deprived areas, not to mention top-quali‐ ty developments and an increas‐ ingly talented workforce along‐ side an integrated transport sys‐ tem and world-class cultural of‐ fering.

"In Edinburgh, we have launched the world-famous Hogmanay Street Party, witnessed the irst sitting of the devolved Scottish Parliament in 272 years and seen a World Heritage Site es‐

tablished. What's more, unem‐ ployment is at an all time low and more people than ever are choosing to live here - almost half a million compared to 425,000 33 years ago.

"So just think what could change over the next 33 years. As I pre‐ pare to retire from service, I look forward to the next genera‐ tion of change-makers taking over and helping to shape the city's future, with the help of residents."

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Liz McAreavey tells us why Edinburgh needs a bold and clear vision in a period of considerable change not just for the city, but for the UK as a whole...

"Individual citizens, communities, organisations and businesses are be‐ ing asked to help feed a process of collaboration that the council hopes will create a model for shared and sustained success for our city in the decades ahead. Over the coming months Edinburgh Chamber will be engaging with the Capital's business community to ensure its contribu‐ tion is heard and understood.

"2050 seems a long way ahead. Yet without an ambitious and bold vi‐ sion we will not feature in the top cities of the world. Whilst we can ex‐ pect many things to be different infrastructure, technology, our workforce - we need to take action now to achieve our long-term goals of continued prosperity. Edinburgh is a world-leading festival city, has the highest qualiied workforce in the UK, was recently reported to be the second most sustainable city in the UK next to London, a position it also occupies in terms of GVA per capital and average earnings. We need to ensure we not only maintain but also increase our competitive advantage.

"In Edinburgh at least, the business community is actively engaged in a process designed to beneit us all for many, many years to come. What we need, urgently, is some kind of simi‐ lar process at a UK level. Business leaders see huge change on the hori‐ zon. All businesses want and need the clearest picture possible of what is in store so they can plan ahead, adapt and capitalise on the opportu‐ nities as well as safeguard against threat. In other words, we need a clear vision for what the UK will look like post-Brexit and beyond.

Marketing Edinburgh Chief Execu‐ tive John Donnelly tells us what Edinburgh needs to do in the fu‐ ture to compete on the global

"I adore Edinburgh, from its rich culture and festivals to its stun‐ ning architecture and history.

It's a city you can easily walk around, enjoy its green open spaces and sample some of Scot‐ land's best food and drink. It's a world class centre of learning, research and technology. All these things make my job, pro‐ moting Edinburgh as one of the best places in the world to live, work, invest, study and visit, very easy.

"Or at least that is what I get told.

"Edinburgh doesn't need to pro‐ moted, because it 'sells itself'. he reality is very different. Ed‐ inburgh operates on a global stage and competes for business against many other successful UK, European and worldwide cities. his ierce environment demands that we have to contin‐ ually improve if we even want to maintain our current position in this marketplace. he world isn't sitting waiting to see what Edin‐ burgh is going to do.

Last September the #Edinburgh2050 conversation was launched at the Edin‐ burgh offices of Cortex. heCortex Founder and Managing Director Peter Proud names Bill Gates as one of his former employers and friends. Cortex is a digital solutions company, and their system has been developed in partnership with Microsoft.

Here he tells us why Edinburgh needs to remain innovative - and encourage young people to embrace change - to ensure it is still a successful city in 2050.

"For centuries, Scotland and particu‐ larly Edinburgh has been home to some of the most innovative inven‐ tions of the modern world. From ad‐ vances in technology to accounting practices, our Judiciary systems and democratic constitutions, Scotland has had and continues to make rip‐ ples around the world as a nation of thought leaders.

"I think we should be celebrating the success of breakthrough works by the likes of Peter Higgs to show off the contribution Scotland is still making to the world, and to inspire future generations to follow suit.

"My vision for the Edinburgh of 2050 is for every child in the Capital, as part of their education, to realise that although Scotland is a small nation with regards to popula‐ tion and land mass, its contribution to the modern world has been piv‐ otal to how everyone in the western (and increasingly all of) the modern world live their lives."

June Peebles is Chief Executive of Edinburgh Leisure which is the arms' length organisation running the council's leisure fa‐ cilities.

She said: "As someone born and

bred in the city, I truly believe Edinburgh is a fantastic place to live. It is a beautiful city that has so much to offer its resi‐ dents and those that visit. I nev‐ er tire of Edinburgh's stunning and varied architecture and the richness of the outdoor spaces we have on our doorstep. How many other cities can make claim to being the Festival City and yet offer easy access to the great outdoors? I like that Edin‐ burgh is such a compact city, which is relatively easy to navi‐ gate (if you ignore the road‐ works) it means you can pack a lot into your day.

"I try to start my day with a spot of physical activity. I love mov‐ ing; it makes me feel good, it does me good and it also keeps me close to Edinburgh Leisure customers and employees. And, having visited sport and leisure facilities all over the UK, I know that we are fortunate in Edin‐ burgh to have such a great range of facilities offering a vast array of activities for people of all ages and stages.

Nick Stewart is manager of the Sneaky Pete's music venue and a campaigner for Music Is Audible.

My vision of Edinburgh in 2050 is a place full of music, arts and culture, that is affordable to live in and sup‐ portive of its own. he Festival is a cause for celebration, but we need a better year round arts scene.

Edinburgh is in danger of pricing out the next generation of en‐ trepreneurs and artists. It's not right to have a situation where the arts and business are both run by those with the wealth, often inherit‐ ed, to do so.

We need cheap retail, artistic and music space for independent busi‐ nesses. Let's instil a culture of en‐ trepreneurship in Edinburgh, where the businesses of the city are indi‐ vidual, independent, and special.

Ella Simpson, Chief Executive Of‐ icer of Edinburgh Voluntary Or‐ ganisations Council, shares her in‐ sight into the future of how Edin‐ burgh's people and communities must come together to solve prob‐ lems and overcome inequality.

My Dad was a shepherd - that might not seem relevant when considering a City Vision for 2050, but what he taught me was that you have to live and deal in the immediate while planning for the future. So with that in mind, what kind of city should we be planning for our grand‐ children and great grandchil‐ dren?

It's hardly surprising that as a hird Sector in Edinburgh we start everything by thinking about people - and in 2050 the city will irst and foremost be a collection of people. No matter how amazing the buildings are or the physical space is, the city

has to live and breathe, and that's about how people feel - a sense of belonging, caring and connecting. As a Sector that is our gift to the city: we connect people, we believe in people and we care about people.

In 2050 what will help people to feel connected to each other, their community and their city?

We have to design our city to en‐ able people to make connections in the very heart of our commu‐ nities. Our challenge is to sup‐ port and stimulate our commu‐ nities - not areas within admin‐ istrative boundaries but where people call "home". Our mental health and wellbeing is directly impacted by our environment; a safe warm home and access to green spaces are vital.

David Gaffney from Charlotte Street Partners tells us about his hopes for the city in 2050 and beyond…

"I consider myself one of Edinburgh's biggest fans. Born and raised here, I've barely experienced life anywhere else, if you discount four hazy years spent at university in Stirling and very occasional for‐ eign holidays.

"I used to ind it embarrassing when I'd meet well-travelled citizens of the world passing through our great city, and they'd ask me if I'd always lived here.

"Yes", I'd admit, suddenly self-con‐ scious about how insular and parochial that made me. "But it's a brilliant place to live…" I'd add de‐ fensively, to justify my narrow hori‐ zons, "….and, well, it's home."

And what a home. he history, the architecture, the vibrancy, the quali‐ ty of life, and just the sheer aesthet‐ ic beauty of the place - that exhila‐ rat i n g co m b i n at i o n o f h i l l s , rooftops, and sea in one vista.

Edinburgh does so much so well that it feels churlish to criticise and de‐ mand more. But, as in sport and business, successful teams only re‐ main at the peak of their powers through constant self-improvement.

So it's refreshing that Edinburgh Council is casting a critical eye over the city as part of a concerted effort to make Auld Reekie the best it can be, not only now, or in the next 10 years, but in 2050 and beyond.

Have your say here http://edin‐ burgh.org/2050-edinburgh-cityvision/

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he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

cial media. My peace and environ‐ mental groups grew quickly, and I was invited in 2012 to tour Scotland with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, which was life changing.

After many years looking after peo‐ ple with heart conditions, I am now able to nurture, support and build conidence in a whole new genera‐ tion of creatives.

Tartan Week 2017 he Edinburgh Reporter is off to Tartan Week in New York. Recently we met up with some Scots who are also going to New York in April Gordon J Millar has had a fascinat‐ ing journey from being a full-time nurse to founding Scot Street Style.

Who are you? - I am the founder and director of Scot Street Style. As a young man, I was driven by cre‐ ativity and compassion. My lack of conidence held me back when I left art school in 1992, so I focused on a career in nursing. he creative lame inside was never extinguished and, as I grew in conidence with age, I was able to channel this energy into a new form of self expression - so‐

I measure the success of Scot Street Style in smiles, and the chain reac‐ tion from the heart of Scotland is spreading organically around the world. I love the fact that when you bring a few creatives together, something entirely new and unpre‐ dictable is born. hese are Universal values which is why the growth of our grassroots community is limit‐ less.

fortunate to work with some of the inest creatives across the UK and North America.

What will you be up to during Tartan Week in New York? Tartan Week is very special to the Scot Street Style story; it's where the movement was born.

It's incredibly exciting to return with the current Mr Scotland Tris‐ tan Cameron-Harper from the BBC's Kilted Yoga video, and to have been invited by Barbour to partner in the 'go to' event of the week at their Manhattan showroom.

What will you be wearing this

the upcoming trip to New York.

Tristan is not only the current Mr Scotland, but also an ambassador for Tiso, was formerly a professional ice hockey player with Braehead Clan, lived for a good part of his life in Canada, attended Banff Hockey Academy, and is also a model with Model Team. He writes a blog and has ambitions to climb Everest. here is no doubting that this will come true as he is so enthusiastic about the way he chooses to live his life. Last year he already trekked to Everest Base Camp, all part of his preparations. He said afterwards : "his trip has been extremely posi‐

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Tartan Week from 1-11 April 2017 is an opportunity to celebrate all that Scots have contributed to the USA. 1 April Tartan Gathering at St An‐ drew's Restaurant 141 West 44th St from 4pm.

3 April he Scots Who Built New York he Arsenal Central Park 830 Fifth Avenue 5 April Wight Hot Pipes and Scot‐ tish Octopus Connolly 121 West 45th St 7.30pm 6 April Tartan Day Observance with readings from the Declaration of Ar‐

What is the purpose of Scot Street Style? To reinvigorate per‐ ceptions of Scotland, smash nega‐ tive stereotypes, and to redeine what it means to be Scottish in the 21st Century.

Our community is an inclusive, di‐ verse and progressive level playing ield, for like-minded creatives and we aim to connect, collaborate, and curate. Our big successes include hosting back to back Gatherings in L.A and New York, crowd-funding to self-publish our irst book and launching a drink for Heineken.

Who is involved apart from you?

I lead the community and have been

he Kilted Yogis in Edinburgh! year? I will be wearing my vintage military jacket and I am immensely proud to reveal my bespoke 21st Century kilt.

When is the next Gathering and how can people get involved? he next Gathering is in Berlin on Satur‐ day 13th May and we would love to see you there!

Join the Facebook event https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / e v e n t s / 791483801015771/ or email g@scotstreetstyle.com ************************************** Well we could not let an opportunity to meet Mr Scotland go by could we?

He is one of the two yogis who fea‐ ture in the now famous BBC Social video set in the forest. And yes they were wearing kilts.

Tristan Cameron-Harper and Finlay Wilson have recently made them‐ selves pretty famous by agreeing to be ilmed for he BBC Social Chan‐ nel. here they are in the middle of the Hermitage near Dunkeld prac‐ tising yoga, in kilts - in the forest.

Together they form the partnership, he Kilted Yogis.

Gordon J Millar by Stephen Gunn

he Edinburgh Reporter met them when they visited Howie Nicolsby at 21st Century Kilts to get outits for

tive for me not only being around the beautiful people of Nepal but on a personal level, l have a better un‐ derstanding of who l am and where l want to go in life."

FW : "In New York we are going to be doing some yoga in some fairly iconic places, we're going to be meeting loads of different people."

TCH : "Yes and we are going to be working with VisitScotland to do a bunch of fun activities and some whisky tasting, and just going with the low and enjoying the buzz really."

As the current Mr Scotland Tristan went to take part in Mr World this year after encouragement from his modelling agency.

Finlay is a Classics scholar who stud‐ ied at St Andrews University and now runs two organic food shops as well as Heart Space Yoga and Body‐ works in Dundee. He likes to travel and teaches yoga all over the world.

He has promised us an invitation to the rooftop yoga class he intends teaching in New York.

Watch out on our Vimeo channel for that!

broath read by Grand Marshal Tom‐ my Flanagan Fountain Terrace, Bryant Park 12.30pm National Tartan Day Cocktail Party Racquet and Tennis Club 370 Park Avenue 6pm he Highland Divas at the Cutting Room 44 East 32nd St from 10pm Caledonian Club Pre-Parade Ceilidh Abigail Adams Auditorium 417 East 61st St 7pm 8 April 2017 Kirkin Service and Pre-Parade Brunch Church of St Agnes 143 East 43rd St 10am Pipes and Drums on the Fountain Terrace, Bryant Park from 11.15am 19th Annual New York Tartan Day Parade from 44th and Sixth Avenue to 55th St at 2pm A SF Barbour Reception from 3.30pm Tartan Day Parade Posts Parade Par‐ ty at BB Kings From 4.30pm

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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counting for 36% of inward invest‐ ment projects.

Ahead of the visit he First Minister said: "Scotland has a longstanding relationship with the United States which spans family, friendship and business and this government is c o m m i t te d to c o n t i n u i n g to strengthen these ties.

First Minister visiting New York during Tartan Week he First Minister is going to New York as part of her USA trip to pro‐ mote the skills and expertise of Scotland to the North American business community. She is also vis‐ iting California during the irst week in April where she will speak at Stanford University. he Scottish Government says that the US remains Scotland's top source of inward investment, ac‐

"We have a strong record in attract‐ ing international investment and Scotland continues to be the top destination in the UK for foreign di‐ rect investment outside of London.

We have also seen a steady rise in visitors from North America to Scot‐ land in recent years and a growing interest from the US market in Scot‐ tish products. "here are huge opportunities for Scottish business in the USA partic‐ ularly in technology and tourism, two areas which will be at the centre of this visit.

"Following the UK's vote to leave the EU and the UK Government's deci‐ sion to leave the single market, I want to reassure investors and visi‐ tors from the United States that Scotland is an outward looking, wel‐ coming country and remains open for business.

"I look forward to building on the existing links between our countries and promoting Scotland as a coun‐ try to invest in, visit and live."

7

Starring Edinburgh In recent weeks we have been enter‐ tained by the antics of actors and ilm crews in Waverley Station and in Cockburn Street. Marvel Studios Avengers : Ininity War is being ilmed here! he six-week production involves 400 crew members and will generate over £10 million for the city region in economic impact. his is the largest and most complex shoot ever to ilming the Old Town.

Cllr Gavin Barrie, Edinburgh's Econ‐ omy Convener, said: "Our cobbled streets, historic properties and stun‐ ning green spaces could set the scene for some of cinema's greatest superheroes and it is fantastic to se‐ cure such an A-list production. We know 40% of visitors to the UK are attracted to places they have seen on screen and the Marvel franchise offers a huge opportunity to pro‐ mote Edinburgh all over the world. his is fantastic news for the city and our ilm industry. he Council will do all it can to support Film Ed‐ inburgh and the producers and keep the city moving throughout the shoot."

Keep your eyes open for star sight‐ ings!

Jetting to JFK he EDI-JFK service returned on 28 March 2017 and will operate until January 2018 then return again for the IATA summer 2018 season. Flights operate daily throughout the peak summer months (June-September).

Delta uses a Boeing 757 on the route, which has 164 seats, in‐ cluding 15 lat-beds in the Delta One cabin. Fares start at £392 for Main Cabin and £1,453 for Delta One. All fares are inclusive of taxes.

To book, visit delta.com, contact the call centre on 0207 660 0767 or see your travel agent. he Edinburgh Reporter thanks Delta for their generosity in sponsoring us on our travels to New York this April.

It's National Grilled Cheese Day on 12 April in the USA. Try this out to feel really American!

• A handful of cold macaroni, but any pasta would work cooked the way you like it • 3-4 tbsp. of your favourite Primula Cheese • 2 slices of bread, well buttered on one side • ½ t s p . m u s t a rd p o w d e r (optional) Find a frying pan with a lid large enough to take your slices of bread.

Stir the pasta with Primula cheese and mustard powder. Add any tasty extras - chopped ham, roasted pep‐ pers, caramelised onion or chilli jam.

Place one piece of bread, butter side down, in the frying pan over a lowmedium heat. Pile on the macaroni cheese. Top with the other slice of bread, butter side up. Put a lid on it.

Fry gently until a golden colour un‐ derneath, and the butter on the top slice has melted. Flip and repeat.

8

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

Letter from Scotland

by John Knox One of the pleasures of living in Scotland is that there is plenty of countryside, even in the cities. On average, each of us shares a square kilometre with just 65 other people. hat compares with 269 in the UK as a whole and makes us one of the least densely populated countries in Europe.

According to the latest satellite im‐ ages, Edinburgh has the most "green space" of Britain's 10 biggest cities (49 per cent). Glasgow comes next with 32 per cent of the city classiied as green space. hat compares with just 23 per cent in London.

planting trees, thinning trees, root‐ ing out invasive plants, cutting back bramble, maintaining paths etc. It's gardening on a grand scale.

But the SWT has realised that pro‐ tecting nature in its 120 reserves is not enough. hey have to be linked together into what it's calling "a liv‐ ing landscape." So it's chosen three pilot areas of Scotland to develop the project, Coigach-Assynt in the West Highlands, the new town of Cumbernauld in central Scotland and old Edinburgh.

Here the idea is to encourage indi‐ viduals to cultivate their gardens for wildlife, to tend window boxes,

Dr Neil's Garden 'Nature's peace will low into you as sunshine lows into trees..... while cares will drop off like autumn leaves' (John Muir)

by Rosemary Kaye he breeze is blowing through the reeds, ducks quack, swans trumpet, a heron slowly rises from a bank, spreading its wings wide. he sun is shining on the water.

And yet we are just a short bus ride from Edinburgh city centre, at the edge of Duddingston Loch (part of the Scottish Wildlife Tr ust's Bawsinch and Duddingston nature reserve) on a perfect Sunday after‐ noon in March. To the right Arthur's Seat rises up, its steep sides covered in yellow gorse, but the garden in which we are standing is no ancient monument.

Duddingston Loch by John Knox Let me take you to a green space I know well in Edinburgh. Dud‐ dingston Loch lies to the south of Arthur's Seat. Here you can almost forget you are in a large city. he gorse-covered hill rises to 250m.

Woodland, reedbeds and rough pas‐ ture surround the loch. he rural 17th century Duddingston Kirk can just be seen peeping between the trees.

plant grass roofs on their garages, leave hedges in place etc. Businesses and other organisations are being asked to play their part. he city council is being encouraged to devel‐ op its parks and roadsides with wildlife in mind and, in its planning decisions, to consider "wildlife corri‐ dors" linking the parks and green spaces together to give birds and beasts the run of the city.

Much of the area is a nature reserve, run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT), and I happen to know it is the home of 69 species of birds (in‐ cluding 40 herons and 200 jackdaws) 4 species of bats, 44 species of trees and shrubs, 42 types of grass, 58 mosses, 16 lichens, sev‐ eral species of dragonlies and but‐ terlies and in the freshwater loch it‐ self, roach, perch, eels and the occa‐ sional otter. Roe deer leap through the trees, cattle graze in the meadow.

It's one way of trying to halt the drastic decline in Britain's wildlife. he latest "State of Nature Report" warns that half of the 4,000 species studied are in decline and 15 per cent face extinction if nothing is done. Along with efforts in the cities, modern agriculture will have to change and we will all have to re‐ duce our carbon footprint if our wildlife is to be saved. But at least in Duddingston a start has been made on the great work.

I know this because I am one of the SWT's thousand volunteers who tend to its 120 reserves across Scot‐ land, many of them purposely close to towns and cities were most peo‐ ple live. Our little team of six or sev‐ en work one day a week in the Dud‐ dingston and Bawsinch reserve,

And our lives should be the better for it.

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In the 1960s this was a derelict patch of glebe land belonging to Duddingston Kirk. It had been used for grazing animals but had never previously been cultivated owing to its steep slope and rocky ground. hen in 1963 along came Drs Nancy and Andrew Neil. he Neils - both GPs working in Meadowbank - had had an allotment in Morningside, but had lost it to developers. hey wanted somewhere else to garden; the kirk had no use for the land, and in a match made in horticultural heaven, Dr Neil's Garden was born. he Neils worked almost on their own in the garden until their deaths in 2005. hey had a great interest in plants, and spent their holidays col‐ lecting new ones in Southern Eu‐ rope - they even brought back young trees from California. he garden they created is a beauti‐ ful, peaceful place illed with bird‐ song and the cries of wildfowl on the loch.

Hedges divide the slope into small 'rooms'; you can sit and watch the birds or wander among the trees and lowers. From rhododendrons to redwoods, ir trees to fritillaries, the garden is full of life and beauty.

Read your book, draw a picture; noone will bother you here. he Neils encouraged their medical patients to come and work with them in the garden; after the doc‐ tors' deaths, volunteers developed a special Physic Garden featuring

medicinal plants and herbs to com‐ memorate their lives as physician and gardeners.

In modern times the loch is unlikely to freeze over, but in the 18th and 19th centuries it was a major curling venue (though as skating became more popular, the curlers had a harder time gaining access to the ice.

Raeburn's famous painting he Skat‐ ing Minister depicts the Reverend Robert Walker gliding across the loch). homson's Tower, a two storey building in one corner of the garden, was designed by William Henry Playfair, and built in 1825 for the Duddingston Curling Society to store its stones. he cosy upstairs room - complete with its own ire‐ place - was not only a meeting place for the curlers; it also provided a sanctuary for the then minister of the kirk, John homson. homson was an artist as well as a clergyman. In his youth he had been taught by Allan Ramsay's pupil, Alexander Nasmyth (designer of the temple at St Bernard's Well, Stock‐ bridge). homson however - as beit‐ ted a good clergyman of the time had nine of his own children plus four stepchildren; the manse was a busy place. Hiding away in the tower, homson could paint away to his heart's content, though what his wife thought of this arrangement is unrecorded. he ground loor of the tower is now a Museum of Curling and well worth a visit - it has lots of memorabilia and has attracted donations of curl‐ ing stones from all over the world.

Meanwhile the upper room houses an exhibition about the garden and Duddingston Village. he tower is open to visitors in the summer months, and it is also possible to hire the upstairs room, with its fab‐ ulous views of the loch, for small art shows and meetings.

After a walk (or even before one...) the mind turns naturally to food, but there's no need to leave the gar‐ den to ind sustenance. he Garden

Room (Wednesday to Sunday, sum‐ mer only - it's open now) can offer you tea, coffee and lots of lovely cakes, plus soup at lunchtimes. It's at the top of the garden and is run by friendly volunteers from Dud‐ dingston Kirk.

And if, after your visit, you're loath to leave, guess what? You can stay!

No, you can't pitch your tent on the sloping shores, but you can volun‐ teer to help in the garden. here are sessions every Tuesday and Friday at which you can have a go at water‐ ing, weeding, garden maintenance and repairs, meet new people and get some exercise and fresh air. You can come for the whole day or just a morning or afternoon, and you don't need lots of experience either; 'Whatever your reason, level of experi‐ ence, age or ability, we will endeavour to make you feel welcome, to work to your strengths, to teach and encourage your progress with practicality and kindness.'

If you are interested contact the Gardener by email info@drneilsgar‐ den.co.uk.

So next time you need a breather from city life, pay a visit to Dr Neil's Garden. Entry is free, though dona‐ tions are very much appreciated.

You can take Lothian Buses no. 42 from Hanover Street or Stockbridge, or you can walk to the garden from the entrance to Holyrood Park be‐ hind the University of Edinburgh's Pollock Halls - the road follows the edge of the loch to Duddingston Vil‐ lage.

If you're going by car there is a car park adjacent to Duddingston Kirk Hall on Duddingston Road West.

Please note that dogs are not al‐ lowed in the garden.

For more information visit http:// www.drneilsgarden.co.uk/.

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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9

Books Blackwells on South Bridge has a massive collection of books on all imaginable subjects. his month they have chosen three of their favourites from the gardening sec‐ tion to help you get off on the right foot in your garden or your highly prized allotment.

It's lovely to inally wake up in the daylight again, and if you're lucky enough to have access to even a wee green space, there are some wonder‐ ful books available to get you out and growing things.

Emily Chappell has kept an allot‐ ment in Glasgow for eight years and in her gorgeous new title, A Hut of One's Own, she showcases dozens of examples of how to put your allot‐ ment shed (or garden shed) to good use. Chappell is a graduate of Glas‐ gow School of Art and this handy hardback is full of her own bright and beautiful illustrations, making it a wonderful, practical gift. Black‐ well's on South Bridge currently has a limited number of signed editions too!

Kay Maguire has produced books for the Royal Horticultural Society and has regularly contributed to Garden‐ er's World, as well as being their horticulture editor for six years. In her new book for RHS, Big Ideas, Small Spaces, she teams up with gar‐ dening wunderkind, former RHS Young Designer of the Year Tony Woods. his title includes 30 stepby-step gardening and DIY projects along with various other ideas for 'greening' your space, whether you're working with a windowsill, a rooftop or the smallest of yards.

he Bonkers Chocolate Easter Trail is on at the Botanics from 1-17 April 2017. Chocolate treats from Mackies for every child.

BOOK SALE

by Nigel Duncan A book sale and festival at Nicolson Square in Edinburgh is planned to raise cash for Christian Aid Week in May. It joins the two successful secondhand book sales that have been held in Edinburgh during Christian Aid Week every year for more than 40 years. hey are at St Andrew's and St George's West on George Street and at Holy Corner. he sale at George Street has raised more than £2m since it started in 1974 and he City of Edinburgh Methodist Church at Nicolson Square is now going to provide a new sale location in the south east of the city which will run from 13-19 May 2017.

Hollie Newton's How to Grow de‐ scribes itself as 'A guide for garden‐ ers who can't garden yet', but sea‐ soned growers may still be able to pick up some tips from this hand‐ some manual which is separated into chapters on vegetables, fruit and lowers with an extensive intro‐ duction. A guide at the top of each page tells you clearly what you should be planting (bulbs, seedlings, young trees...), when to plant, how much sunshine it will need, how much space it will take up and when to pick. It also outlines potential disasters and how they can be recti‐ ied! How to Grow is sumptuouslydesigned and full of tempting pho‐ tographs of your hand-grown fruit and veg in salads and desserts!

here will also be talks and events running alongside the sale and this will give the week a lavour of a mini book festival.

Deacon Belinda Letby, minister of the City of Edinburgh Methodist Church said: "We're really excited about becoming part of this fantas‐ tic Edinburgh event."

Sally Foster-Fulton, Director of Christian Aid Scotland, said: "he Christian Aid book sale and festival in Nicolson Square adds a different dimension to this great Christian Aid Week tradition in Edinburgh. "here is something quite important in the power of story to change hearts and minds and actions."

Grant Stott, Allan Stewart and Andy Gray, all stars of the King's panto were treated to a reception at the City Chambers by the Lord Provost the Rt Hon Donald Wilson to say thank you!

SCOTLAND THE BEST 100 PLACES Pete Irvine may be known as the man who brought us Edinburgh's Hogmanay, but he is also an author.

Scotland the Best 100 Places is an eclectic and very personal mix of the most beautiful and interesting places across Scotland. he paper‐ back edition has just been published and it is full of wonderful photos, making it the must buy book whether you live here or are passing through. Written in exactly the same gloriously eloquent way that he speaks, it will tell you about won‐ derful places off the well-beaten tourist track. Published by Collins £12.99

10

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

NEWS

Principal Edinburgh welcomes Golden George!

Although the Edinburgh Principal has a new name it is still known to locals as 'he George". When the ho‐ tel wanted to promote its petfriendly services they asked Golden George the VisitScotland Ambas‐ sadog to come along. hey rolled out the red carpet for the Very Important Pooch to stroll into the four star hotel wearing his tartan bandana to see their person‐ ally labelled dog beds, ceramic pet bowls and a doggy hamper in rooms which have pets visiting. hese con‐ tain chews and handmade gourmet treats as well as doggy bags of a dif‐ ferent kind!

Hotel manager Andreas Maszczyk said: "It was great to welcome Vis‐ itScotland's Ambassadog to Princi‐ pal Edinburgh. He certainly received a warm welcome from our staff and guests alike and was incredibly dashing in his tartan bandana.

"We know that dogs are an impor‐ tant part of the family and this is re‐ lected in the experience they will receive at Principal Edinburgh."

Craigmillar Tapestry - one stitch at a time

Tapestry which was launched yester‐ day at histle Foundation in the charity's Centre of Wellbeing.

Mr Crummy drew a violin for the irst panel to commemorate the be‐ ginning of this truly remarkable sto‐ ry. he beginnings of Helen Crum‐ my's activism lie in the story of her asking the headmaster for violin lessons for her son. She was told : "We have enough trouble teaching these children the three Rs."

No buses to the Ferry!

It seems that the bus service from South Queensferry is again under threat. In 2014 First Bus gave up on providing services to the Royal Burgh as Stagecoach moved in and launched its 40/40a service. At the time First Scotland East said that they were withdrawing "due to high operating costs and increasing com‐ petition".

Local councillor Norman Work said: "Although disappointed with the an‐ nouncement from Stagecoach this gives Lothian Buses the opportunity to serve Queensferry. A meeting has been arranged with Lothian Buses and as a local resident and a bus user myself I am determined to do what I can to persuade Lothian Bus‐ es to provide a service."

Councillor Lesley Hinds the Council's Transport Convener said: "We've had a very constructive meeting with Lothian Buses to dis‐ cuss the potential ongoing provision of bus services to Queensferry and Dalmeny.

"As a Council, we understand that these are very important routes and services and we appreciate how im‐ portant it is for the residents of these areas to see the continuation of bus services.

"Lothian Buses have agreed to come back to the Council within the next two to three weeks, once they have collected and analysed passenger loadings relevant to the routes to see if they can develop a commer‐ cially viable proposition.

Edinburgh Sketcher Workshops on 22 April 2017 Sketch the architectual details of the Assembly Rooms Edinburgh with he Edinburgh Sketcher on 22 April 2017, as the Assembly Rooms Edinburgh opens its doors for two very limited sketching workshops. Capture the timeless elegance and beauty, with enormous crystal chandeliers, gleaming gold leaf and giant gilt mirrors in ink and watercolour. No experience necessary. Booking www.AssemblyRoomsEdinburgh.co.uk

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"In the meantime, Council officers will also explore potential bus prior‐ ity measures that could be intro‐ duced to help improve journey times and make the services as reliable and efficient as possible."

And Independent Councillor Alas‐ tair Shields was emphatic in his view, saying: "he community of South Queensferry has yet again been dealt a bitter blow by this news.

"Community groups and leaders have gone all out to build relation‐ ships with service providers and their representatives, not only maintain the service but to improve it - timetables communications etc. why should a sizeable number of service users who have bus as their only mode of transport be ma‐ rooned!!

"We'll await to see what Lothian Buses say...must be said that if they exist to represent Lothian region then they should live up to their name and serve Lothian region - in‐ cluding rural west Edinburgh."

Campervan Brewery has outgrown the van It is exciting times for Campervan Brewery he founder of Campervan Brewery, Paul Gibson, told us : "I'm in the process of commissioning a new brewery in Leith. his will be sandwiched between Leith Walk and Bonnington Road. I couldn't keep up with demand on my old set up, so my hand was forced and I decided to just go for it and upscale things fast. "he unit is around 2500 sqft so has plenty of room for me to grow into but I'm also looking at the option of using some of the space to open a tap room. he idea is that people could come around for a tour and to learn about the brew process, then sit and relax and enjoy some of our beers direct from the source. his is all subject to licensing approval of course!"

To mark World Community Arts Day the irst panel of the Craigmillar Tapestry was unveiled in March 2017.

Dr Helen Crummy MBE is a local legend in Craigmillar. here is a stat‐ ue in her memory outside the li‐ brary acknowledging her great inlu‐ ence in the local community, and particularly for her work over the years in setting up the Craigmillar Festival. Helen Crummy died in July 2011 but her legacy lives on.

Her son Andrew is a noted artist and he designed the Great Tapestry of Scotland. Now he has designed the irst panel of the Craigmillar

Founder of Campervan Brewery Paul Gibson announces he is commissioning a new brewery in Leith.

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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11

Candidates for 2017 City of Edinburgh Council Elections Council Elections will be held across Scotland on 4 May 2017.

Make sure of your right to vote by registering on the GOV.UK website. he candidates below are those reg‐ istered with the council as at 29 March 2017 at 5pm Council elections will be held across Scotland on 4 May 2017.

and Unionist Party

Rojan Subramani Independent

Gillian Gloyer Scottish Liberal Democrats

Anne Wimberley Scottish Labour Party

Kate Nevens Scottish Green Party

Inverleith

James Nisbet UKIP

Nigel Bagshaw Scottish Green Party

Frank Ross SNP

Gavin Barrie SNP

John Ferguson Scott Independent

James William Dalgleish Scottish Labour Party

hese are the candidates for he City of Edinburgh Council who had registered as at 4.00pm on 29 March 2017.

June Whitelaw Scottish Labour Par‐ ty

Almond

Ian Campbell SNP

Daniel Fraser Scottish Libertarian Party

Joan Griffiths Scottish Labour Party

Graham Hutchison Scottish Conser‐ vative and Unionist Party

Tom Laird Scottish Libertarian Par‐ ty

Craigentinny/Duddingston

Patrick Hadield Scottish Liberal Democrats

Max Mitchell Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Some of the Edinburgh Greens candidates launching their election campaign

Hal Osler Scottish Liberal Democrats

Tim Pogson Scottish Labour Party

Denis Dixon SNP

Iain Whyte Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Stephanie Smith Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party

Catherine Fullerton SNP

Tina Woolnough Independent

Morningside

Leith

Nick Cook Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Alex Lunn SNP Otto Inglis UKIP K e v i n L a n g S co t t i s h L i b e ra l Democrats John Longstaff Independent Iain McKinnon-Waddell Scottish Green Party

John McLellan Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party Lyndsay Martin Scottish Labour & Cooperative Party

Chas Booth Scottish Green Party

Alex Staniforth Scottish Green Party

Sanne Dijkstra-Downie Scottish Lib‐ eral Democrats

Mridul Wadhwa SNP

Adam McVey SNP

Dan Heap Scottish Green Party

Chris Land Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Gordon John Munro Scottish Labour & Cooperative Party

Robert Christopher Aldridge Scot‐ tish Liberal Democrats

Norman Work SNP Claire Bridgman SNP Mark Brown Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

City Centre Karen Doran Scottish Labour Party

Karen Ann Keil Scottish Labour Par‐ ty

Claire Miller Scottish Green Party

Phyl Meyer Scottish Green Party

Jo Mowat Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Forth

Paul Penman Scottish Conservative and Unionist

Carmel Smith Scottish Labour Party

Eleanor Bird SNP Alasdair Rankin SNP

Neil Ross Scottish Liberal Democrats Mandy Watt Scottish Labour Party

Donald Wilson Scottish Labour Par‐ ty

Pentland Hills

Southside/Newington

Marion Donaldson Scottish Labour Party

Graeme Bruce Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Steve Burgess Scottish Green Party

David Don Jacobsen Socialist Labour Party Cristina Marga Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party

Alison Dickie SNP Emma Farthing Scottish Liberal Democrats

Ian Perry Scottish Labour Party Ricky Henderson Scottish Labour Party

Amy McNeese-Mechan SNP

Cammy Day Scottish Labour Party

Alan Gordon Melville Independent

Susan Webber Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

David Stevens Scottish Liberal Democrats

George Gordon SNP

Susan Rae Scottish Green Party

Evelyn Weston Scottish Green Party

Colinton/Fairmilehead

Gillian Mackay Scottish Green Party

Lewis Ritchie SNP

Portobello/Craigmillar

Scott Arthur Scottish Labour Party

Heather Pugh Scottish Labour Party

Harald Tobermann Independent

Mike Bridgman SNP

Phil Doggart Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Nicola Ross Independent

Vita Zaporozcenko Scottish Liberal Democrats

Kate Campbell SNP

Tim Wight Scottish Liberal Democrats

Sara Marsden Scottish Green Party

Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart

Jason Rust - Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Gavin Corbett Scottish Green Party

David Richard Walker Scottish Lib‐ eral Democrats

Andrew Johnston Scottish Conser‐ vative and Unionist Party

Scott Douglas Scottish Conservative

Je n n i L a n g S c o t t i s h L i b e ra l Democrats

Cameron Rose Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party

Ernesta Noreikienek SNP

Mary Campbell Scottish Green Party

Who runs the council elections? he Chief Executive, Andrew Kerr is the Returning Officer for Elections in Edinburgh and the Counting Offi‐ cer for Referendums. He is in charge of

Liberton/Gilmerton Lezley Marion Cameron Scottish Labour Party

Maureen Child Scottish Labour Par‐ ty

Derek Howie SNP

Callum Laidlaw Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party

John Christopher Knox Scottish Liberal Democrats

Callum Leslie Scottish Liberal Democrats

Lesley Macinnes SNP

David Walker Scottish Labour Party

John Nichol Scottish Green Party

Sighthill/Gorgie

David Key SNP Corstorphine/Murrayield

Dan Farthing Scottish Liberal Democrats

Neil Gardiner SNP

Jim Campbell Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party

Richard John Lewis SNP

Calum Strange Scottish Libertarian Party

Leith Walk

Nick Gardner Scottish Labour Party

Peter Sidor Scottish Libertarian Par‐ ty

Devin Scott Scobie Scottish Liberal Democrats

Melanie Main Scottish Green Party Drum Brae/Gyle

Louise Young Scottish Liberal Democrats

Simon Hayter SNP

Sandy Howat SNP

Pamela Mitchell SNP Bruce Whitehead Scottish Labour Party

Ashley Graczyk Scottish Conserva‐ tive and Unionist Party

• setting up polling places • providing staff to work at polling stations • managing the postal voting process • counting the votes • declaring the results for Elec‐ tions and the local totals for Referendums.

12

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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SNP candidates 2017

NORMAN WORK - ALMOND For ten years Norman has had the pleasure of representing the Almond Ward. He is standing again as he wishes to continue with his strong record of achievements and also by making himself as accessible as possible.

ERNESTA NOREIKIENE PENTLAND HILLS WARD Ernesta moved to Scotland ive years ago with her young family from Lithuania where she worked as a civil servant.

Despite being raised by her hardworking single mum, Ernesta graduated from the prestigious Vilnius University with a Master’s Degree in Political Sciences. She entered politics to work for a more inclusive society

PAMELA MITCHELL - ALMOND Pamela Mitchell is a Political Education Officer and passionate activist for the SNP, addressing delegates at Conference, debating issues of Welfare, Disability and Domestic Abuse.

Her work at NUS Scotland marked the start of her political journey.

GEORGE GORDON - FORTH A ifth generation Grantonian and a committed community activist George has worked closely with local groups and organisations to provide much needed services and facilities. He is determined to promote the interests of all residents as a strong, approachable and listening Councillor.

ELEANOR BIRD - FORTH Ellie currently works part time for Tommy Sheppard MP as well as inishing her degree in Social Policy. Her studies have given her great insight into the importance of Council level policy making and the tangible effects it has on local lives.

CLAIRE BRIDGMAN - DRUM BRAE/GYLE Claire was born and brought in the ward and attended Craigmount High School. She has lived in Clemiston for 20 years and owns a local business helping people improve their career prospects.

She has a particularly interest in protecting the area's amenities and ensuring her community's voice is heard.

NEIL GARDINER – PENTLAND HILLS Neil Gardiner will work hard as Pentland Hills councillor, representing Water of Leith Villages, Wester Hailes, Calders and Ratho. Neil works for the NHS, serves on a local Housing Association Board and supports local community initiatives. He will champion all areas including planning, housing, education, health and social care.

GAVIN BARRIE - INVERLEITH Retired Fireighter with 34 years' active service. Senior member of the Fire Brigades Union on retirement. Held Convenership of Regulatory then Economy Committees.

Gavin is seeking a second term to further address the inequalities and fairness that most Edinburgh citizens recognise in our City.

FRANK ROSS -CORSTORPHINE/ MURRAYFIELD Married to Hannelore with two children, Frank has lived in West Edinburgh for nearly all his life, and is well known locally in both Corstorphine and Murrayield.

He served for 4 years as the Convener of Economy and is now the SNP Group Leader and Depute Council Leader.

CATHERINE FULLERTON SIGHTHILL/GORGIE Catherine lives in her ward and is passionate about improving the lives of the people she represents. She has served as Vice Convener on the Education Committee for the past 4 years.

She is seeking a second term to further address the inequalities and poverty within the ward.

DENIS DIXON - SIGHTHILL/ GORGIE Denis was elected SNP Councillor for Sighthill/Gorgie in 2012 and has sat on the committees for Health and Social Care, Education Children and Families, Planning/ Development Management (subcommittee) Finance and Resources, Governance, Risk and Best Value and Petitions. He chairs the SW Community Safety Action Group.

SIMON HAYTER - SIGHTHILL/ GORGIE Simon is an experienced campaigner on a range of issues ranging from social justice, community engagement and supporting small businesses. He is a small business owner himself, employing local people in the Edinburgh. He graduated from Edinburgh Napier University.

RICHARD LEWIS – COLINTON/ FAIRMILEHEAD With a B.A. (Hons) in Music has worked as a freelance musician and conductor across Europe. Has been an SNP member for 18 years and has been Convener of Culture and Sport. He has worked across Europe in Austria, Hungary, Denmark, Belgium and Ireland as well as in Australia.

DAVID KEY FOUNTAINBRIDGE/ CRAIGLOCKHART David joined the Royal Navy straight from school and saw service and action around the globe as a Naval Officer for 25 years.

Retiring from the Navy in the rank of Commander he is now employed as an Emergency Services helicopter pilot. He is married with two young sons.

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

SANDY HOWAT - MORNINGSIDE Sandy has been active in reviewing the planning of the city, in the education of our citizens and focused on the integration of our health and social care services. Sandy worked predominantly in inancial services and personnel development. He is married with a son and lives in South Edinburgh.

ALASDAIR RANKIN - CITY CENTRE Alasdair's working life has been in public service. He was a civil servant and a parliamentary official. Since 2012 he has been Convener of Finance and Resources ensuring that Council resources are used efficiently and focused on service delivery.

LEWIS RITCHIE - LEITH WALK Lewis has a diverse background, having lived across Europe and worked in the Scottish Parliament, with the Citizens Advice Bureau and with Children in Scotland prior to his election in 2015. He is a law graduate, holds a post-graduate degree in education and is currently completing a doctorate at Stirling.

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AMY McNEESE-MECHAN LEITH WALK Amy holds a Ph.D. & MSc from the University of Edinburgh School of Political & Social Sciences and a B.A. from the University of Oregon. She worked for Japanese Foreign Ministry in Chicago and Ministry of Education in Osaka, for SNH, National Library of Scotland, PCS Vice Convener and was Unison International Relations Officer.

ADAM McVEY - LEITH Adam has a background in economics and law, was elected an Edinburgh Councillor in 2012. Previously he worked at a human rights charity and an investment charity. Adam is Vice-Convener of Transport and Environment and is a director of Transport for Edinburgh, Changeworks and chairs the Council's energy company.

ALEX LUNN CRAIGENTINNY/ DUDDINGSTON Alex was born in Geelong, but has lived his whole life in South-East Edinburgh attending St John Vianney Primary School and Liberton High School. He is currently the SNP Group Whip and the Vice Convener of the Planning Committee.

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IAN CAMPBELL CRAIGENTINNY/DUDDINGSTON Ian lives in Leith and has a great deal of life experience. He has worked in local government and the charity sector and will be a full-time councillor. His top priority is the refurbishment of Meadowbank Stadium.

MRIDUL WADHWA – CRAIGENTINNY/DUDDINGSTON Mridul works on legislation for domestic abuse, forced marriage and BME women. She works for Glasgow Rape Crisis Centre and is a community worker. She trains police officers on equalities issues and charities on the beneits of devolution.

ALISON DICKIE SOUTHSIDE/ NEWINGTON Alison is a local teacher and a former civil servant at Holyrood, a youth work volunteer and now in homeless services. She is mother to two grown-up sons. Last year, Alison was SNP candidate for Edinburgh Central in the Holyrood elections.

‘Derek Howie with Lloyd, his guide dog. SNP candidate for Liberton Gilmerton’ ‘Having been an Edinburgh council social worker for 31 years I am well placed to address the issues and champion the causes of individuals, families and communities in Liberton/Gilmerton for the next ive years. I am ready to take on this responsibility and, indeed, I’m looking forward to it.’

LESLEY MacINNES LIBERTON/ GILMERTON Living in Gilmerton, Lesley is ready to bring energy and some fresh ideas to the ward. As a former manager of an international organisation she will apply her skills and experiences to her community's challenges and to bring maximum beneits to this part of the city.

MICHAEL BRIDGMAN PORTOBELLO/CRAIGMILLAR Raised in Bingham and educated at Portobello High School, Mike has been a Councillor since 2007 and was formerly an Insurance Broker. He was Convener of Lothian & Borders Fire & Rescue Service and chaired the SNP Group for 7 yrs. He is currently Convener of the Regulatory Committee.

KATE CAMPBELL - PORTOBELLO/CRAIGMILLAR Kate is a irst-time candidate, standing for Portobello/Craigmillar. Now working for Tommy Sheppard MP, she spent her twenties in insecure employment. Her priority is social justice, aiming to tackle poverty by supporting an economy that creates decent jobs, building quality affordable homes and putting power in the hands of ordinary people.

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he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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Labour candidates 2017

DONALD WILSON – SIGHTHILL/ GORGIE Donald has been a Councillor in Edinburgh since 1999, representing Sighthill/ Gorgie Ward since 2007. He has served as a Bailie and as Lord Provost since 2012. Donald has led many successful campaigns such as the one to save the Gorgie War Memorial Hall.

BRUCE WHITEHEAD – ALMOND Bruce’s family has lived in Almond since 1978, and his father Jim Whitehead helped establish Queensferry's Community Council in 1983. "I have worked in shipping & oil, and then as a journalist at the BBC and ITN. I live in South Queensferry with my partner and son.”

RICKY HENDERSON – PENTLAND HILLS Ricky says it has been a privilege to have been Councillor since 2007. "I have 18 years experience of representing local people and working with community groups and have been fortunate to carry out numerous different roles on the Council. I feel passionately about our city.”

KAREN KEIL –DRUM BRAE/GYLE Karen was born and raised in Edinburgh, and worked for the Church of Scotland Counselling Service at Simpson House as an administrator and counsellor. hen Karen worked for the development charity, Christian Aid, for nearly 20 years. She was irst elected in 2012.

HEATHER PUGH – FORTH Heather grew up in West Pilton and went to school at Royston and Ainslie Park. Four generations of family have lived here and she brought her daughter up here. "I was a civil servant and actively campaigned on green, health & safety and disability issues within my union. I am a grafter.”

CAMMY DAY – FORTH Cammy was born and raised in Edinburgh. He spent most of his career working with young people in many of the city's areas of deprivation. He was key in supporting the irst youth forum in the north of the city. Elected in Nov 2008, he is currently Convener of Education.

JAMES DALGLEISH – INVERLEITH James was educated locally at Broughton High School and lives in North Edinburgh. He has worked for MPs as a case-worker, an elderly care charity and now in inance.

"I have gained invaluable experience in helping others. I believe I have the skills, background and determination to serve Inverleith Ward.”

JUNE WHITELAW – CORSTORPHINE/MURRAYFIELD June is a widow, mother, sister and retired shop worker still active in her union, USDAW. "My life experience will inform my work on your behalf. You elect three councillors to represent this area, and I would relish being one of them.”

ANNE WIMBERLEY – FOUNTAINBRIDGE/ CRAIGLOCKHART Anne was born and raised here in Edinburgh. Her daughter went to school at a time when she claims shortages in schools were unknown, and was able to take art, music and PE lessons for granted. "My elderly parents got incredible healthcare when they needed it. I would like to see children and pensioners today getting the same opportunities and care my family had."

CARMEL SMITH – SIGHTHILL/ GORGIE Carmel’s husband is currently a serving military officer. She has 3 children, one works in our local police and one in inance. She has worked for an Edinburgh charity for the past 5 years. Carmel said: “As your local councillor, I will work hard to look after local people’s interests.”

SCOTT ARTHUR - COLINTON/ FAIRMILEHEAD Scott is standing for election in Colinton-Fairmilehead : "It’s my home and I want to make sure it stays the best place in Edinburgh to live and work. I’ll work with the community to protect the greenbelt, tidy up our streets and bring good quality jobs to the area.

KAREN DORAN – CITY CENTRE Born and brought up in Edinburgh, she has lived here all her life. Educated at Tollcross Primary School and James Gillespie's High School. She lives with her husband and two children, and worked as an office manager Labour MPs. First elected in 2012.

MANDY WATT – MORNINGSIDE Mandy is a qualiied accountant who graduated from Napier University. She held senior positions with listed international companies before taking on challenging roles with local charities. Politics became her passion during the independence referendum, when she campaigned with the Labour team for Scotland to remain in the UK.

NICK GARDNER – LEITH WALK Nick has worked and lived in Leith Walk ward for 30 years. He has been a youth and children's worker, and worked in mental health day services. He has taken up schools, parks, planning, housing, and antisocial behaviour issues, and has joined many campaigns, from Climate Change, to anti privatisation, to support for refugees.

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

MARION DONALDSON – LEITH WALK Marion entered politics as a foodbank team leader driven to improve life chances for all.

As a former pharmacist, health is a priority for her. "If elected I will continue working to improve access to local GPs and support our public services."

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JOAN GRIFFITHS – CRAIGENTINNY/DUDDINGSTON Joan has been involved in the Action Group for over 30 years following the birth of her son who has a profound disability. In 2010 she received an MBE for her voluntary work. “I care deeply about my local community and it is an honour to serve as your local Councillor.”

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LEZLEY CAMERON – LIBERTON/ GILMERTON Lezley Cameron was born in Dufftown.

She attended Banff Academy and studied English at Glasgow University, and then studied Business and Human Resources.

She ran a consultancy providing strategy policy, public affairs, events, business liaison and fundraising services. She is a former Councillor for Alnwickhill and was the Council’s Economic Development Leader.

16 and 17 year olds are eligible to vote in the upcoming council elections. Lauren Bonnar (15) is a pupil at Holy Rood RC High School and she was among those being shown by the Returning Officer Andrew Kerr how to register to vote. You must register by 17 April 2017. Find out more at yourvotematters.co.uk Photo Ian Georgeson

GORDON MUNRO – LEITH Gordon was irst elected to the Harbour Ward in 2003, winning back the seat from the SNP. He was re-elected in 2007 for the new, 3 member Leith Ward. He was Housing spokesperson from 2007-2010 and is currently the Economy Spokesperson for the Labour Group.

IAN PERRY – SOUTHSIDE/ NEWINGTON Ian has been a councillor for over twenty years, and has represented Southside/ Newington for ten years. He has been chair of the Environment Committee, Depute Leader of the Council and is Chair of the Planning Committee. In that role Ian has sought to promote Edinburgh’s economic development without damaging our unique heritage.

DAVID WALKER – PORTOBELLO/CRAIGMILLAR David has 20 years’ experience of voluntary work, community regeneration and the functions of local government. He was one of the founder members of Craigmillar Credit Union and helped develop it into the histle Foundation, with over 1,000 members and over £250,000 in assets. First elected in 2012.

Edinburgh Printmakers Fundraising for Centre of Excellence

LYNDSAY MARTIN – CRAIGENTINNY/DUDDINGSTON Lyndsay has served as a community councillor, a member of a community centre management committee and is co-founder of a voluntary organisation. She has experience in the voluntary sector. "I believe I am an excellent choice as your local councillor and will commit to representing the community. I will always put people irst!

TIM POGSON – LIBERTON/ GILMERTON Originally from Yorkshire, but has lived in Edinburgh since 1995. Almost all his career has been spent working in social housing, now in a charitable organisation supporting council housing services and housing associations. ”I believe that I have the experience and knowledge necessary to make an excellent contribution to managing public services."

MAUREEN CHILD – PORTOBELLO/CRAIGMILLAR Maureen started as a community activist and volunteer in Portobello in the 1980s and was irst elected in 1995 for Milton Ward (Ward 40) representing Joppa, Brunstane and Magdalene. Maureen has been Councillor for Portobello/ Craigmillar (Ward 17) for the last 10 years helping to develop these diverse neighbourhoods and communities from the grass roots.

Edinburgh Printmakers have big plans for the Castle Mill Works in Fountainbridge. his was occupied by the North British Rubber Compa‐ ny, and is an iconic industrial build‐ ing which will be saved from demoli‐ tion as a result of Heritage Lottery funding announced in 2014.

Edinburgh Printmakers Centre of Excellence will become an £11 mil‐ lion creative industries incubator with world class facilities.

Already 90% of the £11 million tar‐ get has been raised, and now apublic fundraising drive has been launched. By donating towards the campaign members of the public will have their name 'immortalised' in print within the new building.

Supporters of the project can also can become Friends of Edinburgh Printmakers giving regular dona‐

tions in return for exclusive rewards and EP Circle Patrons giving large donations will have the opportunity to receive a limited edition print cre‐ ated specially by Edinburgh Print‐ makers Artist Patrons John Byrne, Callum Innes and Rachel Maclean. he public can help Edinburgh Printmakers reach its target by tex‐ ting CMWS001 to 70970 to give £5 or by visiting the website www.edin‐ burghprintmakers.co.uk

16

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

Edinburgh music news

tion - both a commanding, pas‐ sionate performer and a frank, emotionally evocative songwrit‐ er.

A multi-platinum selling record‐ ing artist and seven-time Gram‐ my nominee, the soulful vocalist is a highly sought-after collabo‐

beerfestival.co.uk

It's been a busy start to the year for Tom Chaplin, just back from an intimate American club tour with his amazing band. Luckily he's found time to return to the studio and record a new version

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tumn, Tom embarks on a 15 date British tour in May including Ed‐ inburgh's Queen's Hall on 15 May 2017. His 24 carat band Sebastian Sternberg, Rosie Lan‐ gley, Tobie Tripp and Beau Hol‐ land - effortlessly swap instru‐ ments to recreate the lush, emo‐ tional sound of 'he Wave' driven

by Tom's captivating voice.

Book your tickets at he Queen's Hall t 0131 668 2019

Fancy a bit of folk music? hen get along to the Edinburgh Folk Club in April.

5 AprilGerry Creen is Belfast born and bred and acknowledged as one of the city's inest singer songwrit‐ ers. Gerry emerged from the vibrant Belfast folk scene of the 1960s and 70s.

12 Ella Munro is a young folk singer hailing from the Isle of Skye, on the west coast of Scotland.

19 Phil & Cath Tyler play AngloAmerican folk music using guitar, banjo, voice and iddle.

26 Fil Campbell & Tom McFar‐ land Irish singer Fil Campbell and her percussionist husband Tom Mc‐ Farland, have been part of the Irish, British and European folk scene since the early 90s.

All tickets from https://www.sum‐ merhall.co.uk

Dean Owens and Amy Geddes are Redwood Mountain Tradfest returns!

27 April 2017 at Summerhall at 8pm Redwood Mountain (aka Dean Owens & Amy Geddes): Transat‐ lantic Crossings Redwood Mountain is a brand new duo featuring ac‐ claimed troubadour Dean Owens and traditional iddle player Amy Geddes.

R e d w o o d M o u n t a i n p e r fo r m transatlantic folk songs. Most of them are built around the lyrics of the classic folk songs featured in he Book Of American Folk Songs by archivist Alan Lomax. Reimagined with new melodies, Redwood Moun‐ tain breathe new life into these won‐ derful old songs.

Add in a few Owens originals and some other transatlantic classics, stripped back to just vocals, guitar and iddle and you'll ind a heady brew - a pure and organic blend of the old with the new.

Expect a brand new CD to surface at the end of April 4 May 2017 at the Voodoo Rooms, 8pm Brina & the Tribal Global Collective: Jamaica Sings Robert Burns

Jamaican roots-reggae artist Brina performing with members of her high-energy Tribal Global Collective, creates a dynamic dialogue between her homelands signature music and its African kindred styles, together with funk, gospel, rock, and Latin el‐ ements, all underpinned by her mes‐ sage of justice, equality, liberation, oneness and love.

Brina (who has worked with Ja‐ maican legends including Sly Dun‐ bar and Toots Hibbert) will be per‐ forming reggae versions of Burns songs from the upcoming album 'Ja‐ maica Sings Robert Burns', including her much acclaimed versions of Warmongerers By Name and he Slave's Lament. he power of Ja‐ maica's greatest export - reggae mu‐ sic - combined with the immortal words of Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns."remarkable Scottish Jamaican mashup from the amazing voice of Brina..." he Observer

Tickets from Tradfest Box Office at the Scottish Storytelling Centre T +44 (0)131 556 9579 http://www.tracscotland.org Joan Osborne has rightfully earned a reputation as one of the great voices of her genera‐

rator and guest performer who has performed alongside many notable artists, including Bob Dylan, Luciano Pavarotti, Stevie Wonder, Emmylou Harris, Taj Mahal, and Mavis Staples to name a few.

For tickets to Joan Osborne sings the songs of Bob Dylan on 23 April 2017 T 0131 668 2019 Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival will have DJ sets from Young Fathers, Belle & Sebastian, Idlewild and Metronomy's Olugbenga at their Bank Holiday weekend festival in Edinburgh.

of 'Solid Gold' ft. Jones, one of the stand out tracks on his ac‐ claimed debut album 'he Wave'.

Tom explained : "When I wrote the middle section of the song, I always had it in mind that it should feel like a duet. After dis‐ covering JONES through a friend, I decided to make it a full duet. Having never done this kind of thing before, I was slightly dubious as to how it would work.However once we got into the studio, it just added a whole new layer to the song."

At he Queen's Hall in April 1 April 2017

Young Fathers will headline the Fri‐ day night DJ slot with Idlewild on stage during the day on Saturday and Belle & Sebastian to play at the festival on Saturday night. Sunday's session will feature a DJ set from Olugbenga Adelekan from Metrono‐ my.

Tom describes 'Solid Gold' as a love letter to his wife. "I wanted to articulate how my view of our relationship had changed once I got myself clean. It's one of the most poignant moments on the record."

Over thirty internationally renowned brewers will ly in from around the world to participate in Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival; kick‐ ing off on the May Bank Holiday weekend, 26-28 May at he Bis‐ cuit Factory.

Anyone who heard Tom and JONES perform the track live on a recent Dermot O'Leary Radio 2 session or the Sun Bizarre Face‐ book Session, had a sneak pre‐ view of the spellbinding re‐ worked version of the song.

Tickets for Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival http://www.edinburghcraft‐

Having toured the UK last au‐

Scottish Chamber Orchestra: Philippe Herreweghe conducts Schumann Bach: he Art of Fugue, Contra‐ punctus I & IV Mendelssohn: Piano Concerto No 2 in D minor Schumann: Symphony No 2 Philippe Herreweghe: conductor; Martin Helmchen: piano 2 April 2017

Rhiannon Giddens plus special guests he Grammy Award-winning lead

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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singer of African-American folk in‐ ter preters Carolina Chocolate Drops, has stepped out on her own, winning over audiences around the world, with as the New York Times put it, "the fervor of a spiritual, the yips of a folk holler, and the sultry insinuation of the blues".

John McCusker Band Featuring: Andy Cutting, Innes White, Toby Shaer, Heidi Talbot & Very Special Guests

On her solo debut Tomorrow Is My Turn, Giddens delivers striking ren‐ ditions of Dolly Parton's Don't Let It T r o u b l e Yo u r M i n d , & H a n k Cochran's She's Got You, popularised

by Patsy Cline. he album incorpo‐ rates gospel, jazz, blues, and country, plus a hint of protorock'n'roll, and Giddens displays an emotional range to match her daz‐ zling vocal prowess throughout.

John McCusker has long been renowned for his skill at transcend‐ ing musical boundaries: striving to keep his music fresh and exciting, never leaving the past behind but al‐ ways embracing new sonic adven‐ tures. As a live and studio guest he

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perform a broad range of songs cov‐ ering classical, jazz, pop and hiphop. Led by choirmaster Stephen Deasley, the voices of nearly 200 young people will ill he Queen's Hall with songs by artists such as Bob Dylan, Adele, and Portishead. he Voices of Midlothian concert is certain to be a memorable evening, which showcases the musical talents of our young people.

Joan Osborne has rightfully earned a reputation as one of the great voic‐ es of her generation - both a com‐ manding, passionate performer and a frank, emotionally evocative song‐ writer. A multi-platinum selling recording artist and seven-time Grammy nominee, the soulful vocal‐ ist is a highly sought-after collabora‐ tor and guest performer who has performed alongside many notable artists, including Bob Dylan, Lu‐

South Uist performed by truly world-class talent including: Callum Armstrong & George Pasca Brighde Chaimbeul Allan MacDonald & Seonaidh Mac‐ Intyre MacKenzie-Moore (Angus MacKen‐ zie & Fin Moore) Roddie MacLeod Angus MacKenzie & Gabe McVarish 27 April 2017

he Lorna Reid Quintet : Truth in My Heart Scotland's cool and classy jazz diva Lorna Reid has grown a reputation as a world-class vocalist with recent performances at Rochester NY In‐ ternational Jazz Festival and a tour in Germany with gypsy jazz gui‐ tarist Lulo Reinhardt.

6 April 2017

Old Blind Dogs Her writing has met with critical ac‐ claim and has established her as one of Scotland's inest songwriters with an eclectic style that crosses jazz, blues and soul. Likened to Diana Krall 'cool and gliding' and Norah Jones 'effortless blend of Jazz and Americana'.

Old Blind Dogs release their much anticipated and long awaited new al‐ bum in 2017. Fusing dynamic per‐ cussion, polished vocals, soaring id‐ dle and stirring pipes, the band have been at the leading edge of the roots revival for several years and contin‐ ue to distinguish themselves as vital, innovative ambassadors of tra‐ ditional music.

28 April 2017

Edinburgh Academy Spring Concert

7 April 2017

Colin Hay Scottish-Australian Colin Hay is probably best known for his time with 1980s legends 'Men at Work' the platinum selling Australian band that topped worldwide charts in the 80's with anthems like "Down Under," "Overkill," and "Who Can It Be?". Colin Hay was born in Kilwin‐ ning, Scotland, and to this day re‐ mains hugely popular in the country and the rest of the UK. Hay has re‐ leased ten albums since founding own label Lazy Eye in 1992.

14 April 2017

Dunedin Consort : Matthew Passion Bach: Matthew Passion Kristian Bezuidenhout: director; Rachel Redmond; soprano; Clare Wilkinson; alto; Robert Davies: bass & Jesus

An entertaining and varied pro‐ gramme of music for Orchestras, Concert Bands, Big Band and Cham‐ ber Choirs, with solos from inal year pupils.

Tinariwen at he Queen's Hall on 25 April 2017 has shared stages with Paul Weller, Paolo Nutini, Teenage Fanclub, Gra‐ ham Coxon and Eddi Reader.

ciano Pavarotti, Stevie Wonder, Em‐ mylou Harris, Taj Mahal, and Mavis Staples to name a few.

22 April 2017

Since 2008, he has been a member of Mark Knopler's band, playing arenas around the world including a double bill with Bob Dylan at he Hollywood Bowl and 20 nights at the Royal Albert Hall.

20 April 2017

Scottish Chamber Orchestra : Beethoven he 'Eroica' Escaich: Baroque Song Haydn: Cello Concerto in D Beethoven: Symphony No 3 'Eroica'

When Bach composed his setting of the passion narrative from Matthew's gospel for the Good Fri‐ day liturgy at Leipzig's homaskirche in 1729, he could scarcely have imagined the universal connection that it was to make with musicians and audiences across the world. Even in the secular age, its relevance and impact are no less compelling. Whilst less immediately dramatic than the John Passion, its combination of choruses, arias and extended ariosos present unparal‐ leled insight into and meditative re‐ lections on some of our most pro‐ found emotional states.

Alexandre Bloch: conductor; JeanGuihen Queyras: cello

15 April 2017

For one magical night in April the choirs from six Midlothian sec‐ ondary schools come together to

John McCusker Band

29 April 2017

he 'Eroica'. he symphony that changed the musical world, casting aside the familiar forms of Haydn and Mozart and announcing the be‐ ginning of the Romantic age with the most expansive and heroic sounds the world had yet heard. Be inspired, energised and discover the transformational nature of this sem‐ inal work.

21 April 2017

Voices of Midlothian

25 April 2017

he Unthanks : How Wild he Wind Blows Performing the Songs and Poems of Molly Drake A wistful mother in the 1950s makes some simple home recordings in her family sitting room. Little could she have known that decades later, her son would become one of the most poetic and inluential songwriters ever, or that more than sixty years later, the dust would be blown off her own songs. On the surface, the 2013 release of Molly Drake's work could easily have been perceived as just a curious footnote and jigsaw piece in explaining the enormous talent of Nick Drake. In the eyes of he Unthanks however, and increasingly amongst others, Molly's work is extraordinar y enough to rank alongside and inde‐ pendently of her brilliant son.

23 April 2017

Joan Osborne Sings the Songs of Bob Dylan Joan Osborne Acoustic Trio featur‐ ing Keith Cotton: Keys/Vocals/ Acoustic Guitar and Jack Pettruzzel‐ li: Acoustic Guitar/Electric Guitar/ Vocals

Al Stewart : Back to the Bedsit Tour Back To he Bedsit Tour featuring Dave Nachmananoff and Tim Ren‐ wick

Tinariwen plus special guests Tinariwen will release their new al‐ bum, Elwan (he Elephants) in February 2017. It is the band's sev‐ enth, recorded in the rocky desert near M'Hamid (also known by its Berber name, Taragalte), a little town in southern Morocco, located in the Draa valley in the Zagora area. he area was chosen as their home town in northern Mali proved too unstable and dangerous due to renewed conlict. It is also a place of signiicant cultural importance to the Tuareg-Berber people, the loca‐ tion where all the caravans would stop before making the long journey to Timbuktu.

26 April 2017

Tradfest : Bagpipes Gu Leòr A Celebration of Scotland's Rich Pip‐ ing Story his extraordinary and unique con‐ cert of Scottish Piping celebrates the rich diversity of instruments and musical styles which have emerged in the last 30 years, as a result of one of the most signiicant cultural renaissances in Scotland's history.

Featuring music from the Borders to

A Classic Album performance of his legendary, debut album, Bedsitter Images. Also performing a greatest hits & best-of set including Year Of he Cat and many, many more.

30 April 2017

Ward homas plus support Twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward homas (who have been singing harmonies together since childhood) have had Country music in their blood ever since they were introduced to the sounds of Carrie Underwood, Dixie Chicks and Alison Krauss by a Canadian cousin in their early teens. One listen to the vocal cadences and close harmonies on their debut album From Where We Stand and Nashville and Hampshire suddenly don't seem all that far apart. heir new album Cartwheels, featuring the single Carry You Home, is out now.

For all tickets call the Box Office on 0131 668 2019 or visit http:// www.thequeenshall.net he Queen's Hall, 85 - 89 Clerk Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9JG.

18

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

Sports News Report Card for Hearts

by Mike Smith It's less than three years since Ann Budge took over as Hearts Chief Ex‐ ecutive and Chairperson and imme‐ diately began implementing the changes she believed were required to take Edinburgh's biggest and most successful club back to the top of Scottish football.

Some of Budge's decisions when she took over were clearly unpopular with a section of the Hearts support, in particular the decision not to retain the services of then Head Coach Gary Locke. However, it is clear strategic decisions regarding the long-term future of the club had to be made.

Back in 2014, Budge appointed for‐ mer Hearts and Scotland manager Craig Levein as Director of Football while Youth Team Coach Robbie Neilson was promoted to First Team Coach. he Edinburgh Reporter takes a look back at Ann Budge's subsequent statement which was released on the official Hearts website in May 2014 and relects on the progress made.

"Next season cannot simply be about getting back up into the SPFL. Of course, we will be striving for that, but we must take a longer-term view and build for the future. One of the key ob‐ jectives of the new Board is to put in place a Coaching Education Pro‐ gramme that is second to none in Scot‐ tish football. Only by doing so, can we realistically attain the continual yearon-year improvement we are striving for and that will add to the value of the players and the club alike, and help to secure our future.his means change on a fairly major scale. Not everyone will agree with all the changes being put in place, but we must address the issues at hand with our heads and not our hearts. We have made these tough de‐ cisions after much deliberation and much discussion. All we ask is that you give the new management team time and we will show we can deliver."

Progress:Hearts returned to the top light of Scottish football in highly im‐ pressive fashion. Not only did they re‐ turn in their irst season 'downstairs' but they romped to the Championship title, leaving rivals Hibernian and Rangers trailing in their wake. Hearts didn't taste defeat in the league until February.

Report Card: A plus"It was clear from my earliest visits to Tynecastle and my earliest meetings with senior staff that the company, Heart of Mid‐ lothian plc, was, in every sense of the

word, "broken". here was no overarch‐ ing strategy for how the business should be run. For far too long, there had been no clear leadership. his cou‐ pled with the sole focus on day to day survival had left the club in a sorry and perilous inancial state. his led to a fundamental disconnect between the various departments and a mountain of issues to be resolved. Add to this, the under-investment in various parts of the business and the current inancial position, and we have a "broken" Hearts. We must all realise that there is no quick ix for these problems.One thing is very clear. We have come far too close to losing our very existence and we must never allow this to hap‐ pen again. We must grasp this oppor‐ tunity to start afresh; to put in place solid foundations that will ensure we never again risk our 140 years of histo‐ ry" Progress: Ann Budge's leadership has been a deining aspect of Hearts success since the dark days of ad‐ ministration. Off the ield the club continues to make considerable progress and the club's integrity, professionalism and status in Scot‐ tish football has been resurrected following the embarrassment of the Romanov years.

Report Card: A plus"We must make changes. We must stop thinking shortterm. We must completely revitalise and re-focus the football side of our club. We have some excellent young players, who have done us proud in the last season. We owe it to them to create an environment that will help them to continue to lourish and develop. his will take time, patience and the contin‐ ued loyal support of Hearts' dedicated fan base. We will implement strategies to grow and strengthen the club. We will live within in our means to ensure that the future of the club is never again put in jeopardy.We must ensure we have a clear footballing strategy that drives every aspect of our game; everything from who we recruit into our club, from youth academy through to irst team players; how we approach coaching, at all age groups and all lev‐ els; how we undertake training… and indeed, what kind of football we play at Hearts.here must be a totally cohe‐ sive plan that ties all aspects of our club together. Everyone must be pulling in the same direction."

Progress so far: 'the kind of football we play at Hearts' has not exactly been enthralling in recent weeks.

Robbie Neilson said during the early part of his tenure that he would never resort to the long ball game.

But he did. he signing of Conor Sammon was a huge mistake but the long ball is still played all too often to Bjorn Johnsen and, more recently, Isma Goncalves. As for ev‐ eryone pulling in the same direction I suspect club captain Perry Kitchen isn't too happy at being left out while former striker Juanma fell out with the club as did former goal‐ keeper Neil Alexander.

Report Card: C - could do better."Craig Levein will join the club with immediate effect and will assume total responsibility for everything to do with the playing side of the business.

He will be responsible for putting in place an end-to-end strategy for how we are going to implement a youthdriven playing policy within the club."

which read 'No Guts. No Style, Neilson Out' - and it's fair to say Cathro has still to win over the fans. Two Scottish Cup defeats to rivals Hibernian in the space of a year hasn't helped the mood of the supporters. Both ties were immi‐ nently winnable - and the feeling per‐ sists the balance of football power in Edinburgh has swung to Leith.

Progress so far:he 'youth-driven playing policy' is up for debate. he likes of Jamie Walker, Sam Nichol‐ son and Callum Paterson, before his injur y, continue to thrive at Tynecastle. Goalkeeper Jack Hamil‐ ton has been given his opportunity this season but it's unclear if this was through choice or necessity (Neil Alexander left the club in acri‐ monious circumstances at the end of last season) Liam Smith and Rory Currie have made sporadic appear‐ ances in the irst team this season but the club's playing policy, particu‐ larly since returning to the Lad‐ brokes Premiership, appears to be drafting in foreign imports, some of whom, it has to be said, are of dubi‐ ous merit.

Ann Budge has been described as the 'Queen of Hearts'. Her subjects are loy‐ al and passionate about their club. It is hoped their loyalty and passion will be rewarded sometime soon.

Hibs Where are they now?

by John Hislop

Report Card: C - could do so much better "A number of the decisions we make over the next few days and weeks will be driven by inance. We have to ensure we live within our means. All of the de‐ cisions have been taken with a view to ensuring the future stability of our club."

March 18th marked the 10th an‐ niversary of Hibernian's CIS League Cup inal victory over Kilmarnock at Hampden Park and the Edinburgh Reporter inds out what happened to the players who took part in that epic game and speaks to fans' favourite David Murphy about his memories of that glorious day.

Progress so far:hanks to the contin‐ ued support of the fans through the generous donations of the Foundation of Hearts and increased attendances Hearts play in front of a full house at Tynecastle most games - the inancial catastrophe of the Romanov regime seems like a million miles away. True, the take-over of the running of the club by the Foundation of Hearts has been rescheduled as Hearts work on deliver‐ ing a new main stand it for the 21st century. But Hearts are certainly living within their means once more. here's no reason to doubt Mrs Budge's asser‐ tion that inancial stability is paramount.

Andy McNeil was released by Hibs and subsequently played for Mon‐ trose, Raith Rovers, Livingston, Waibob United, Hawkes Bay Island, Airdrie, Alloa and Morton. Earlier this year he became a reserve goal‐ keeping coach with Chinese Super League side Guangzhou R&F.

Report Card: A plus

David Murphy joined Birmingham City for a reported fee of £1m and won a League Cup winners medal as an unused substitute in City's victo‐ ry over Arsenal. He was forced to re‐ tire from the game due to injuries.

Overall, Hearts are in a much better position both on and off the ield than when Ann Budge took over in May 2014. But they are still very much a work in progress. Hearts inished in third place in the Ladbrokes Premier‐ ship last season and Mrs Budge inti‐ mated that anything less than a third place inish this season would be classed as failure. At the time of going to press, Hearts will bedoing well to achieve a top fourinish. Robbie Neil‐ son departed for the third tier of En‐ glish football in December and the ap‐ pointment of his replacement, Ian Cathro, has been contentious.

And this is, perhaps, where some Hearts fans feel progress has stagnat‐ ed somewhat. Director of Football Craig Levein signs the players and ap‐ points the Head Coach. Robbie Neilson had his critics - it's about a year since some fans hired a light aircraft to ly over Tynecastle trailing a banner

Steven Whittaker joined Rangers for a reported fee of £2m. At Ibrox he won three League titles, two Scot‐ tish Cups and two League Cups be‐ fore moving to Norwich City when Rangers went into administration.

At Carrow Road he helped Norwich to promotion via the play-offs.

Chris Hogg was freed by Hibs and joined Inverness Caledonian histle where he spent three years before joining Needham Market. He is cur‐ rently an U18 Coach with Ipswich Town.

Rob Jones moved to Scunthorpe for an undisclosed record fee. He later moved to Sheffield Wednesday, Don‐ caster and Hartlepool where he is currently a irst team player/coach.

Guillaume 'Boozy' Beuzelin left Hibs when his contract ended and joined Coventry City before returning to Scotland with Hamilton Academi‐ cals then Greece with Olympiakos Nicosia. After retiring he became a coach at Stirling University, Hiber‐

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nian Under 14s and is currently a irst team coach under Martin Can‐ ning at New Douglas Park.

Lewis Stevenson is the only member of the Cup winning team to still be at Easter Road. He has played over 300 games for the club and last year was awarded a testimonial. he like‐ able Fifer made history by becoming the only Hibs' player to have won two national cups whilst at the club.

Scott Brown moved to Celtic for a reported £4m and is now the club captain. He has won an impressive six League titles, two Scottish Cups and two League Cups with the Hoops. Until recently Scott cap‐ tained his country and to date he has 51 caps.

Ivan Sproule is best remembered for his second half hat-trick against Rangers at Ibrox. he speedy winger moved to Bristol City for £500,000 then after a couple of loan spells re‐ turned to Easter Road under Colin Calderwood. He joined Ross County before returning to Northern Ire‐ land with Linield. Ivan official re‐ tired last summer. He won 11 caps including one in the famous 1-0 win over England.

Steven Fletcher joined Burnley for £3m then moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers for £6.5m and later Sun‐ derland for £12m. After a spell on loan in France he joined Sheffield Wednesday where he currently plays. He won 30 caps for Scotland and became the irst player to score a hat-trick since Colin Stein in 1969.

Abdessalam 'Benji' Benjelloun left Hibs for a loan spell with Charleroi before signing for Ismaily SC. He has subsequently played for Moroc‐ can sides Raja Casablanca, Wydad de Fez, FUS Rabat and FAR Rabat. He retired from the game two years ago and his current whereabouts are un‐ known.

Manager John Collins resigned after a dispute with the board then had a brief spell as manager of Charleroi in 2009. He was appointed director of football at Livingston in February 2012, but resigned a year later. He then assisted Ronny Deila at Celtic for two years, winning two League titles.

David Murphy recalled his time at Easter Road fondly saying: " I loved my time at Hibs. When I moved north to Scotland I was a 20-yearold kid, but that move turned me into a man. he team was full of youngsters such as Scott Brown, Steven Whittaker, Kevin homson, Steven Fletcher, Garry O'Connor and Derek Riordan and it really was a very special time in my life. "here was a great team spirit and whenever we bump into each other it's as if we have never been apart. I still see Rob Jones regularly as he lives close by. "he League Cup Final was special for me as it was my irst trophy. he celebrations at full time were fantas‐ tic. I remember standing on the

he Edinburgh Reporter Spring 2017

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feel old in the hockey world!

pitch with Benji, waiting to be inter‐ viewed for television when they played 'Sunshine on Leith' and ev‐ eryone sang along. It was a real 'tin‐ gler' and I still get goose bumps thinking about it.

We didn't achieve our aim of coming 2nd and securing qualiication for World League 3. his was a massive learning curve as one game cost us.

We have a mix of experience and re‐ ally young new players, some of whom had never experienced tour‐ nament hockey before. After the Ukraine game everyone was devas‐ tated.

"It's frightening to think that 'youngster' Lewis Stevenson has now qualiied for a testimonial but he deserves it as he is Hibs through and through and has been a great servant to the club."

I play for Edinburgh University club as a wild card but did go to Edin‐ burgh University for 4 years to get my degree. Prior to this I was with CALA Hockey club for eight years.

Why did you choose hockey as your sport?

I had no hockey at school so I actual‐ ly got into it because my mum played. She played for Waverly-In‐ veresk-Trinity and I went along to try it out. hey had a really good youth section and I predominantly played with boys and men from a young age. I also played in National League with them from a very young age (younger than you are

And how do you think the recent WL2 in Valencia went for Scot‐ land?

When you break it down we failed to score any outield goals and this is something we must work on going forward. On a positive note our penalty corner routines were effec‐ tive and contributed massively to our 3rd place. hankfully we still have a chance to qualify, but we are

And inally, 'If I wasn't an Inter‐ national Hockey star...?'

time student £5 and a junior £2.

Permits are non-transferable.

I think I may have tried rugby or boxing or any sport which is physi‐ cal. Or I would be teaching abroad!

Day permit agencies are Barnton Post Office, 109 Whitehouse Road, Barnton, Edinburgh EH4 6BU t: 0131 339 1236; Cramond Falls Café, 10 School Brae, Cramond, Edin‐ burgh EH4 6JN t:0131 312 8408; Scotmid Kirkliston, 1-7 Station Road, Kirkliston, West Lothian EH29 9BE t: 0131 551 1224

In her interview above, Amy men‐ tions funding and sponsorship. Back in 2013, Scotland's women were ful‐ ly funded for 3 months, again from April to July in 2014 prior to the Commonwealth Games and, once more for another three months in 2015 leading up to that year's Euro‐ Hockey Nations Championships.

Performances and results over this period of time showed that, given the funding and support, Scotland has the players and back-up to be more than capable of competing with several of the top teams in the World.

Trout ishing around Edinburgh

Hockey Talking to Amy Brodie

he trout ishing season started on Wednesday, March 15 and you may be interested in getting a permit for local waters.

Photo John Preece

Having spent two weeks away with the Scotland Women's Hockey squad in Valencia at the start of February, he ER's Man-on-the-Spot, John Preece, had the opportunity to, not only see how an Elite International Sports' team operates from the in‐ side, but to get to know a little about the players and coaching staff who make up one of Scotland's high‐ est ranked International teams.

One of those 18 young women was Edinburgh born Amy Brodie known simply as 'Brodie' with her team mates - and he 'interviewed' Amy here.

Tell us a little about Amy Brodie, the person.

I am from Edinburgh and went to Portobello High School, who were massively into Basketball, with not a hockey team in sight!

I work as a Physical Education teacher at George Heriot's School in Edinburgh, where I teach pupils as young as primary 1 up to senior 6. I also run the hockey curriculum.

RIVER ALMOND: West Lothian An‐ gling Association (WLAA) have per‐ mits available for salmon and brown trout an eight-mile stretch of he Al‐ mond from Kirkton Weir in Liv‐ ingston to Clifton Hall at the M8 Motorway near Newbridge. he cost is £15. hey are available on line at WLAA.org.uk and the seven-yearold organisation aims to provide, promote and protect angling oppor‐ tunities within the West Lothian area.

Members are permitted to ish using ly, spin or bait techniques and membership is open to all members of the public..

To encourage youngsters, juniors be‐ tween the age of 9 and 16 can join free as part of an senior member‐ ship. All young anglers will receive their own membership card.

by Nigel Duncan

by John Preece

For further information, including beat maps and club rules please visit www.ishalmond.com

meant to!) I loved playing up front and taking players on, I was a bit of a poacher!

dependent on other results in the next World League 2 tournament in April.

Scottish International Player.

What's that been like?

Despite the numbers playing, hockey doesn't appear seen as 'mainstream' in Scotland, so sponsorship, both team and in‐ dividual, must be important.

I have luckily had the opportunity to experience being a full time athlete.

Playing hockey as your job is great as it is so much fun! hankfully my employers have been really support‐ ive and allowed me to do this. Rep‐ resenting Scotland is what I've al‐ ways wanted to do and I am proud to have reached 50 caps. I'm now even more determined to continue to play at this level for many more caps!

It is of course tough as you have to give up a lot in terms of social life.

Hockey takes priority, even over your job sometimes. Balancing your lifestyle is tough at times but to make selection you have to work hard. I have experienced set-backs such as not making Glasgow 2014 and then making London Europeans 2015 but getting injured 5 days be‐ fore leaving. his is all just part of elite sport and it's how you come back that matters. I have been in the Scottish set up since I was 19 so it's now just a massive part of my life, I

Considering Hockey is one of the top sports in the world for participa‐ tion levels it is frustrating how little spotlight it gets, especially in Scot‐ land. he girls' Great Britain team achieving gold has, thankfully, given immense media attention and hope‐ fully encouraged more people to try hockey. We as a team perform best when we are full time athletes where we can recover properly. Trying to work full time and train full time is so hard and honestly exhausting.

To train full time we need funding.

Sport Scotland, Scottish Hockey, and individual sponsorships have played a huge part in our achieve‐ ments to date. Without them we could not be competing with the top teams in the world, who are all full time hockey players. We as a team also keep fund raising to add to sponsorship contributions, such as hockey camps ran by the athletes.

Here, as a reminder, are a sample of waters who have submitted details to he Edinburgh Reporter.

And a reminder that the Water of Leith season does not start until April 1 and permits are free. he Water of Leith Visitor Centre say they should be available a week be‐ fore the official opening and they are also available from Post Offices at Juniper Green, Currie, Balerno and Colinton plus ishing tackle shops across the city. he river is no longer stocked.

RIVER ALMOND: Fish with ly or spinner on approximately eight miles of the River Almond between Cramond and Kirkliston for salmon, sea trout and brown trout. hat's the offer from Cramond An‐ gling Association who issue permits on a catch and release basis in keep‐ ing with their ethos of conservation and sustainable ishing.

An adult season is £35 and it costs £25 for anglers over 60. A full-time student permit is £25 and it is £10 for a junior member (under 15). Ap‐ ply to Treasurer@ishalmond.com A day permit for an adult is £10, day tickets for those over 60 and full-

RIVER TYNE: East Lothian Angling Association's waters cover most of the River Tyne as it lows through East Lothian.

Permits allow anglers to ish for brown trout and, if they are lucky, for sea trout and salmon. Catch and release is encouraged but by law all salmon must be returned.

Details of permit prices and where to buy them can be found on www.elaa.co.uk along with other in‐ formation regarding the Association and angling on the Tyne.

More information can also be found on Facebook.

RIVER ESK: Musselburgh and Dis‐ trict Angling Association has a new committee. Chairman is Chris Halli‐ day, Jamie McDonald is president, Grant Dickson is the treasurer and Stevie Devine is secretary.

If you are interested in ishing the River Esk then permits are £20 and they are available from Ace Bike Co at 101 North High Street, Mussel‐ burgh EH21 6JE (just behind he Brunton Hall, t: 0131 665 4468). he shop is open from 9am to 6pm Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday).

Permits are also available at the Ed‐ inburgh Angling Centre at Granton Retail Park, 65 West Harbour Road, Edinburgh EH5 1PW (t: 0131 202 6351)

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