The Edinburgh Reporter June 2024

Northern delights Star struck Looking ahead Class of 99

Awesome aurora was something to see

Boyack reflects on 25 years at Holyrood

No negativity for snapper looking back on his life

The Royal infirmary has new lease of life

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

Job vacancy

IT IS NOW TEN YEARS since Edinburgh Trams began running the passenger service

from Edinburgh Airport to York Place. Actually on the first day the service began at the Gyle Stop with many people trying to be the first passengers to get on board. Edinburgh Trams have now carried more than 60 million passengers in the last decade on a fleet of 27 trams and employ around 300 people in Edinburgh. Except during Covid

A LOT HAS HAPPENED in the last month, never mind the last ten years.

Our front page photo is from the first day of Edinburgh Trams carrying passengers in 2014. Now the tramway operator is very much a part of Edinburgh life, and a way of getting about.

I was privileged to be allowed to drive a tram recently - both on the simulator and a real tram (the green tram since you ask). And it was great fun - if a little scary how many things there are to think about all at the same time - and very different from driving a car.

Our new First Minister and his cabinet are now firmly in place at The Scottish Parliament, despite criticism that this means little change from previous administrations. Read John Knox’s weekly Letter from Scotland column on our website which will keep you up to date with all the shenanigans at Holyrood and elsewhere.

The “elsewhere” will include Westminster where prime minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced the date for the General Election on 4 July. We hope to speak to all candidates as we usually do - if you are a candidate then you need to get in touch with us soon.

This month our focus in the middle pages is on Stanley Reilly who is a bit of a legend because of the photos of some well-known stars he has taken during his lifetime. A modest and self-effacing man, he rubbed shoulders with many stars like Taylor and Burton - and we have too many photos to show them all here but we plan to put them all online after the paper is published.

On page 16, in a departure from the usual recommendation for another new place to try, Charlie Ellis has written of the sad demise of one of our independent coffee placesFormat.

Both amateur and professional sport features on our four pages at the end of the paper. Do tell us any news about your local club and Bill Lothian will write about it. Nigel Duncan has his feet firmly in Tynecastle, but also in his waders as he writes about fishing this month.

Phyllis Stephen, Editor

Planning News

AN £80 MILLION mixed use development in Leith has been given the green light by councillors. This scheme to be built by S Harrison Developments on Ocean Drive will include flats and student flats as well as other commercial properties and co-working spaces. The buildings will be two multi-storey blocks with a mix of 112 built to rent homes and 404 student flats. The proposals will create around 60 retail and leisure jobs and 325 construction jobs.

A spokesperson for the developer said: “We are delighted that we have received a green light for our planning application - this will serve to deliver much-needed homes and student accommodation to an area which is undergoing a rapid transformation, delivering a truly mixed sustainable neighbourhood.

“Regenerating a current brownfield site, this development boasts excellent transport links, especially with the new tram line, and will deliver a significant investment into the local area.”

There are plans to extend the Waldorf Astoria - The Caledonian by 96 rooms as part of a £35 million makeover rebranding the hotel to the Curio Collection by Hilton. This would mean the hotel capacity would rise to a

Coalie Park near Leith at the end of the cycle path has opened after 23 weeks of closure, and is, according to the Water of Leith Conservation Trust, quite transformed with space for people to sit by the river and soak up some rays (when the sun is out).

The second day of public consultation on the proposals by Glenprop 4 LLP to develop a gap site at Ashely Place into Purpose Built

Family outing to the Ferry

STUART LAIDLAW has shared his personal memories of his mother Isabella Alexander Laidlaw [1911-1999] and this photo of a family outing to South Queensferry in 1936.

He submitted his picture memory to Edinburgh Collected which is the online community photo archive managed by Edinburgh City Libraries. Those on the front row include sister Dorothy, an unknown cousin, brother Bill, and his sister. edinburghcollected.org

Plans have been submitted to develop the former shopping parade site on St John’s Road into a care home with 60 beds, five assisted living apartments and a café/brasserie and three commercial units on site.

Pret a Manger are opening on Bruntsfield Place in the shop formerly occupied by Costa.

is in the region of around 20,000 people. You will find copies at all branches of Farmer Autocare, Summerhall, Art & Craft Collective, EICC, LifeCare on Cheyne Street, Coffee Angels, the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and Western General Hospital.

If you can, then please subscribe to have your copy delivered to you each month. It helps us to cover the overheads of bringing the news to you in print and online which is kept free to access. We can also deliver door to door on some selected streets. If you would like us to include your street then please suggest it to us ter.ooo/subscribe

Editor: Phyllis Stephen Designer: Tammy Kerr

Photos: Martin P McAdam

Trams are 10

total of 337 rooms. 24/02220/LBC

Student Accommodation will take place on 26 June at The Biscuit Factory from 3pm to 7pm. 24/02024/PAN

St John’s Road

Back Row: Father William, Mum, unknown cousin, unknown cousin, mother Margaret, aunt Harriet

Aurora borealis delight

MANY PEOPLE spotted the aurora borealis or the Northern Lights in Edinburgh, but those with a phone or camera got the best views. A rare storm created the natural phenomenon which was the result of a geomagnetic storm with charged particles from the sun hitting the Earth’s atmosphere. Clear skies helped skywatchers to have a good view almost everywhere in the UK - the internet was full of sky images.

No News is Bad News: The future of local journalism in Scotland

DATE: Friday 7 June Time: 10am – 4pm

LOCATION: Grassmarket Community Project and Coffee Saints Cafe

Join The Scottish Beacon and The Edinburgh Reporter for a lively discussion on the future of local journalism in Scotland. This event will bring together journalists, community members, and industry experts to explore the challenges and opportunities facing local news outlets. From the rise of digital media to the impact of social media, the conversation will delve into the way journalism is evolving Scotland’s communities. Don’t miss out on this insightful event.

ABOUT THE SCOTTISH BEACON

The Scottish Beacon is a collaborative network of 24 publications based all across Scotland – from Shetland in the north to Dumfries and Galloway in the south. The Beacon was launched in 2023 as both a network to connect independent publishers, and share skills, resources and story collaborations, and a platform to amplify stories from Scotland’s communities.

ABOUT ‘NO NEWS IS BAD NEWS’

The ‘No News is Bad News’ campaign from the Public Interest News Foundation is founded on the belief that a well-informed community is more able to act

together to shape its own future, that local news is fundamental to a healthy democratic society and invaluable in helping to create strong communities.

Despite this, independent community news providers are struggling to generate enough revenue to carry out their invaluable work, putting local democracy, civic engagement, and community cohesion at risk.

Indie News Week aims to combat this by allowing community members to directly engage with local news outlets to better understand their

contributions. This week-long celebration of independent news outlets will consist of a range of activities organised within communities across the UK.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A packed day of inspiring panels, lightning talks, interactive workshops and conversations. A chance to network with others interested in public interest journalism. Lunch and teas/coffees provided.

Book on Eventbrite

TO VOTE IN THE GENERAL ELECTION all voters require to show valid photo ID at the polling station. This can be a valid form such as a passport or driving licence, but otherwise voters can apply for a free Voter ID on the Electoral Commission website. Just in case voters have no access to the internet there is also a phone number to call - 0333 103 1928. Voters can also apply by post - and it is possible to apply for an anonymous elector’s document. Anyone wanting to cast their vote for their MP will also have to register to vote - there are details about how to do this using a National Insurance number on the council website.

Thomas Haywood Photography

Council asks for help in budget setting

Have your say on council spending and the real priorities

By STAFF REPORTER

THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL would like residents to give feedback on council services as they plan where to invest and where to save. Demand for services continues to increase as costs rise and funding decreases which will leave a budget gap of £143 million by 2028/29.

As the way people use public services shifts, the council needs to become more efficient and invest in the future of Edinburgh and its population, which is expected to grow by almost 60,000 people in the next 20 years.

To prioritise investment in the next budget year and beyond, the consultation seeks community-level views on where the council could save money, where it is doing well and where it needs to improve. Residents can geotag areas where council services are being delivered well, or areas where spending could be made differently. This information will help to inform the challenging decisions councillors need to make next year and, in the future, to balance the city’s budget.

Residents who take part in the online consultation may also be invited to sign up for focus groups in the autumn, to discuss their concerns, ideas, and ambitions for Edinburgh.

Council Leader Cllr Cammy Day said:

“The council continues to face high and growing demand for services, and the reality is that this demand exceeds the funding that’s available. As we grapple with these additional pressures, we’ll face significant financial challenges and some tough decisions. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be ambitious for our capital city – or our commitment to protect those services that we know many of our most vulnerable residents rely upon.

“Just as our 2024/25 budget invests millions of pounds towards protecting and improving vital frontline services, we want to continue to get the basics right and plan for our future. Be it continuing to improve our roads, parks, and greenspaces, supporting our schools, addressing poverty and homelessness, or

Marking a quarter century of devolution in Scotland

By SARAH BOYACK MSP

ON THE 12TH OF MAY 1999, I took my seat as part of the first cohort of MSPs in the newly established Scottish Parliament. Little did I expect that 25 years later, I would still be here - apart from a three-year period when ‘democracy kicked in’ and I found myself out of Parliament working at Heriot Watt and then at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations. As someone who campaigned for our Scottish Parliament it’s been a privilege to represent my constituents and work to improve their lives.

The crucial thing to remember with devolution is that it is constantly evolving. When I was a cabinet member, I set a then radical renewable energy target of 20%. That would be considered conservative now! We achieved

some great advancements in the early years of devolution, including hiring far more teachers and nurses, more investment in schools, child poverty falling faster than anywhere else in the UK and so much more. As a minister I was proud to deliver free bus passes for the over 60s and those with disabilities, national parks and new railway lines.

However, momentum on devolution is stalling. We are seeing record NHS waiting times, a national (and Edinburgh wide) housing emergency, falling education standards, and our climate targets have not been met. The Scottish Parliament is more powerful than ever, but the SNP Government is not making the best us of those powers. We need to inject some energy back into Holyrood. After 17 years, the SNP is plainly out of ideas and is unable to keep the plates spinning.

working towards tackling our climate crisis, we need your views to make sure this continues in your communities.

“We remain the lowest funded local authority in Scotland, and I won’t tire of fighting for fairer funding from the Scottish Government for our capital city so that we can continue to deliver the best for Edinburgh.

“We’ve already had to make £400 million in savings over the last decade despite the unique challenges and growth Edinburgh faces and - if this squeeze on local authority budgets continues - we face a further £143m reduction by 2028/29.”

Cllr Mandy Watt, Finance and Resources Convener, said: “The council is facing the same hard choices about spending that many of you

Scottish Labour wants to rejuvenate devolution, move power away from Holyrood and towards communities. Revitalising Scotland’s economy is central to making the next 25 years of devolution a success. We must have an economy that grows and works for everyone, thus creating the resource to have properly funded public services. The SNP’s last budget was the antithesis to this approach - delivering the toxic mix of higher taxes and lower spending.

I believe it is possible to recapture the optimism of those early days of devolution. For those born after 1999, a Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh is all they know. We shouldn’t listen to the voices that claim devolution has failed. Instead, we should seek to build upon the foundations laid in 99. When I stood on the steps of Bute House as a member of the first Scottish Cabinet, I truly felt like there are no limits to what devolution can achieve. I still believe that now, but it will take the energy from every single MSP, and citizens right across Scotland to ensure that devolution matches those ambitions.

are experiencing. We’re trying to make our income stretch further and we’re making every effort to reduce costs without cutting the services or facilities that you rely on. Your local councillors will be thinking about the impact that any changes could have on our citizens, our communities and our workforce - but we want to be sure that we’ve not missed anything that’s important to you.

“That’s why we’re asking you to take part in the ongoing discussion about the financial challenges we’re facing. I’m hoping that you’ll choose to take part online or by contacting your local councillors.”

The survey is open until Sunday 28 July at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/budget

Council priorities

Sarah launching bus passes

Holyrood

Why is Scotland being left out of the loop?

By FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MBE, MSP

SEVERAL OF MY CONSTITUENTS have contacted me as they are concerned about the long waits that they face to receive vital technology to treat their type 1 diabetes. It was announced, in November 2023, that over half of the type 1 diabetics in England and Wales would be eligible to receive a hybrid closedloop (HCL). A hybrid closed-loop consists of an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and helps type 1 diabetics to keep their blood glucose levels in range.

Only 18% of type 1s in Scotland have access to an insulin pump and just 8% to a Continuous Glucose Monitor. *

However, constituents have told me that access to this vital technology is being restricted to children, young adults and pregnant women. Some in my Lothian constituency have stated that by the end of 2024, they will be looking at a staggering 10 year wait to receive an insulin pump. This is an unreasonable wait for a something that can help prevent expensive medical complications like heart attacks, blindness, kidney failure, leg amputations etc.

My constituents’ experiences include Shelly Murray who said: “I was told by one of the nurses because I wasn’t pregnant or critically ill, I won’t get a closed loop anytime soon after being told in November I should automatically upgrade in the new financial year. This made me question do I have to make myself ill or lie to the NHS to get life changing technology. I am being punished because I’ve been told “ I’m too well controlled.””

Stephen Nixon said: “I’ve heard of horror stories from those that were told they were eligible and were due to get this year but will have to wait for it longer as current funding cuts are managed by the NHS boards. I’m currently funding my own access to the sensor that allows me to loop, so aware of the cost to the NHS, but I also need access to this tech to keep this quality of life.”

Alison said: “As someone who’s been using insulin pump therapy very successfully for the past 15 years, I find it utterly incomprehensible NHSL funding has been cut so virtually no adult with Type 1 diabetes in Lothian will start an insulin pump for the next two years, as children

and pregnant women will be prioritised. We are at the stage of life-changing, hybrid closed loop ‘artificial pancreas’ technology, yet the Scottish Government don’t deem fundamental insulin pumps a priority for funding. Scotland is an outlier, having to fight for technology over a drug is discrimination. If the Scottish Government is actually serious about increasing access to diabetes tech, then MSPs must make funding a priority now and include patients living with Type 1 diabetes in all the conversations.”

I have raised these worrying issues at The Scottish Parliament, and will continue to do so.

The Scottish Government, however, just discusses the retrospective funding that has been given. Choice of insulin pumps and CGMs may also be restricted - my constituents are rightly asking why the situation is so dire in Scotland. Ring-fenced, sustainable and adequate funding is vital now and in the future. Type 1 diabetics in Lothian and throughout Scotland, deserve better.

*(Figures excluede Freestyle Libre 2 update) Data from Diabetes Scotland and data from the Scottish Care Information – Diabetes Collaboration (SCI-DC) database in March 2023, with the permission of each Health Board.

By DEIDRE BROCK MP

THE 2024 BATHING SEASON starts this month, not that a bit of winter weather ever stops hardy outdoor swimmers like the Wardie Bay Wild Ones from having a dip.  I was down at Wardie Bay recently for a pre-season litter pick with the friendly Beachwatch bunch. We got rid of the usual icky collection of wet wipes and unnecessary plastic items (plastic plants are the latest addition). This lovely wee bay is a coastal haven for the people of Granton, well used by paddlers, swimmers, ever-hopeful sunbathers and dog walkers, so it’s great to see collective efforts to keep it clean. I was also pleased to see it designated as a Scottish bathing water last year, following a successful campaign led by the Beachwatch team, which means water quality is formally monitored, protected and if necessary improved.

Just down the road at Western Harbour is another bit of nature that’s getting some community campaigning efforts. Four housing plots, abandoned during the financial crash of 2008, have naturally developed into ponds, wetlands and woodlands and are now home to a rich array of birds, bats, insects and plants. This includes breeding swans and moorhens, goldeneye, herons and kingfisher. Unfortunately this unexpected wildlife haven is at risk as the development is set to get going again.

The local campaign to save the ponds is growing a head of steam and I certainly hope a compromise can be found. We urgently need new homes, but they should be in the right places, at the right prices, and not about maximum profit for developers at any cost. We are lucky to have this unexpected wetland in such a highly built-up area and it would be a real shame to bulldoze over it, not just for nature but for the people who live here – everyone needs some breathing spaces.

Western Harbour Ponds

Case for and against the Roseburn Path

Spokes to discuss the options at June public meeting with expert speakers

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

WHETHER THE TRAM should use the Roseburn path or an onroad route via Orchard Brae and Dean Bridge will be discussed at the June Spokes meeting. The four speakers will present each case, then the pros and cons of each option for cycling and walking, and for wider public health, followed by a one-hour QA and panel discussion.

Spokes says it has always supported cycling “as part of an environmentally sustainable transport and access strategy” not purely cycling for its own sake. A spokesperson said: “We are very supportive of public transport, walking, wheeling, reduced car use, and reducing the climate-crisis impacts of transport. It is therefore important to consider all aspects of both options, although cycling issues will of course weigh significantly in our discussions.

“Very briefly and purely from the cycling perspective, onroad tram would mean some very difficult cycling conditions (notably, tramlines on the already narrow Dean Bridge), whilst offroad tram would reduce the ambience and ecology of the nature-filled Roseburn path and might need path restrictions such as pinch-points at some bridges.

“Our public meeting on Wednesday 5 June gives you the chance to find out more about the arguments, and to start formulating your thoughts in advance of the forthcoming Council public consultation.”

SPEAKERS

• The case for tram using Roseburn path and not using the road route

Lesley Hinds, Former Transport Convener & North Edinburgh resident.

• The case for tram using the road route and not using Roseburn path

Euan Baxter, Save Roseburn Path

• Cycling aspects – pros and cons of each option

Alex Robb, Spokes Planning Group

• Population health – pros and cons of each option

Adrian Davis, Professor of Transport and Health, Edinburgh Napier University

…THEN A ONE-HOUR PANEL QA –a chance to interrogate and challenge the speakers

• CHAIR: Johanna Boyd, Scottish solicitor specialised in planning and local government law, CEO of Planning Aid Scotland, and former leader of Stirling Council.

WHERE: Augustine United Church 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL

DATE: Wednesday 5 June

TIME: Starts 7.30pm, Ends 9.30.  Doors open 6.45 for coffee, stalls and chat, including a special stall to join Spokes.

QUESTIONS: Questions for the panel, can be emailed (at least a day in advance) to spokes@spokes.org.uk. However, questions in person from audience members are likely to have greatest priority on the night.

Choosing the unconventional route

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

EDINBURGH COUNCIl has decided that it will run the Edinburgh Convention Bureau in-house.

The decision was made after a one year funding offer of £150,000 to the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) to continue running the organisation on behalf of the council was rejected by the EICC board.

The wholly owned council company has been caretaking the Convention Bureau for the past two years, and representatives said to the Finance Committee that the cost to the EICC had been around £150,000 in each year. The EICC asked the Finance Committee for more than that in a deal which also involved some of its loans being written off by the local authority.

The council decided it will now allocate the sum of £150,000 to an in-house operation which will run

the city’s conference and convention business to attract these events to the city. Councillors said that a staff member from the council was already seconded to the EICC to help run the bureau, but the EICC confirmed that all people working in the bureau were their own employees. Moving forward, the EICC had planned to have around five members of staff.

Cllr Lezley Marion Cameron, who is Chair of EICC, said the board would have been happy with some interim backing, but that one year funding is just not acceptable. She asked for a little time to allow for more “pause and reflection”.

The council decided against delaying the decision, opting to agree by 41 votes to 7 to move the bureau in house in much the same way as Film Edinburgh once was.

A spokesperson for the EICC said: “Along with many city partners,

ambassadors and residents who work in the business events sector across Edinburgh, we are extremely disappointed at today’s decision.  We regretfully declined the proposal around a reduced funding model and timetable, as without the correct resources in place to generate income and only limited certainty until March 2025, it was clearly not viable to raise the funds suggested from local Edinburgh businesses.

“Thanks must go to the EICC employees who have worked in the Convention Bureau in addition to their core roles for the past two years, and the results delivered are testament to their tenacity and professionalism. Thanks also to the numerous city partners who have worked collaboratively over this period, partners who share our passion around ensuring that Edinburgh continues to be regarded as a world-class business events

The Sea Cadets need you

SEA CADETS EDINBURGH TRINITY seek new Volunteers to jump on board.

Are you looking for a new challenge? Do you want to support young people and give them a better head start in life?

If you said yes, then becoming a volunteer with Edinburgh Trinity Sea Cadets could be for you.

Trinity Sea Cadets, based at Claverhouse Training Centre, is currently looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteer instructors and trustee members to join their team; they are specifically looking for instructors, fundraisers, a vice chairperson and other general trustee members.

If you have any skills relating to these roles or have a keen interest in any of them, then please do get in contact with the unit. There are no specific educational or experience requirements; having the right attitude and a passion for improving the lives of young people are the most important things!

The aim of Trinity Sea Cadets is to equip young people with the skills they need for life. They help young people develop teamwork, leadership, determination, resilience, and confidence - all essential skills. They follow the rank structure of the Royal Navy, but most importantly, they have fun!

Sea Cadets is a charity organisation and filling these roles is vital for the unit to continue supporting the young people they work with.

To get in touch with the unit and to find out more, email us at info@ seacadetsedinburghtrinity.org

destination.”

The Edinburgh Tourism Action Group (ETAG) said that they supported the demand from the EICC for more funding: “Business events are integral to the successful delivery of the Edinburgh Tourism Strategy 2030, contributing to the five strategic outcomes that the strategy aims to achieve.

“By leveraging business events,

Edinburgh can attract high-value visitors, boost sustainable economic growth, and position itself as a leading global destination. ETAG believes that evolving the current ‘guardianship model’ into a more formalised, longer-term structure would build on the successes already achieved and be in the best interests of the strategy, the Edinburgh visitor economy and the city as a whole.”

Council decide to run bureau in-house

Keeping it on the rails

Running Edinburgh Trams has been challenging but Lea Harrison believes he has now turned perceptions of the transport company around

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

IT HAS NOT ALWAYS BEEN a smooth journey for Edinburgh Trams, but the man put in charge of running the business eight years ago is proud of what has been achieved in the last decade.

Lea Harrison had visited Edinburgh several times as a youngster with his grandfather, going to the Tattoo at the Castle - he still believes that is why he eventually joined the army. A career in the transport corps from the age of 16 set him up to join Metrolink in Manchester as one of the first second generation tram drivers. There he spent two decades doing every job from tram driver all the way up to Ops manager followed by roles in the finance and commercial aspects of the company which now runs trams on a 103km long track.

Lea said: “All of this experience has been an amazing apprenticeship that I didn’t know I was on. When I sit here now and talk to ticketing staff or drivers, I have worked in all of their positions for at least three years. Even when I finished driving I kept my ticket for a further 14 years.

“I would love to drive a tram here - it is quite therapeutic to lock yourself in your cabin in an amazing office, but unfortunately I am just too busy these days.”

As Head of Service Delivery at Tramlink in Nottingham in 2014 he was busy building two extensions to the line there, but was invited up to Edinburgh for the day to observe the launch of the capital’s new tramway.

Later, when the opportunity came up to head up Edinburgh Trams, he did not exactly jump at the chance. Many people related the history of the project to him and advised him against taking the job. But Lea said: “Actually that’s what made it fun for me. I like a challenge.”

However he has a firm view that the history of the tram project is little to do with the running of the company carrying passengers, and said that in this job he has always focused on looking forward.

But forcing him to look back for once, he is proud of the fact that the tram has now carried more than 60 million passengers in the last ten years. He said: “I do believe we are actually building year on year, and month on month now. We’re looking to increase or reduce the headway - which means putting more trams

out at one time. The Ops team have started to put extra trams out in the morning, because we are getting to saturation in the morning peaks.”

The tram operator does not work to a fixed timetable as the bus services do, but aims to achieve a tram arriving at each stop every seven minutes. There are naturally interruptions to the service, particularly when car drivers park

too close to the line, or if there is a medical emergency on board a tram. During Covid the only requirements made by Transport Scotland were to run the first and last tram of the day and every other tram at 15 minute intervals. Tram passenger numbers were however much decreased and revenue slim. Passenger numbers picked up in late 2022 with 4.8

million journeys - 60% of which were in the second part of the year.

Covid hit all transport companies hard, but while Transport Scotland provided financial support to all companies, the funding ended in March 2022 for the light rail sector, making it an uneven playing field for a while. It also affected the income from fares due to lack of passengers but also the company lost the ability to manage income by raising fares. At that point the marketing team swung into action and as soon as the company was allowed to advertise again they booked commercial tram wraps - a whole tram wrapped in an advertwhich have now become the norm.

Lea recognises that the successes of the company are not down to him alone. He said: “The best thing I’ve done is make a team and make a culture and an organisation that are proud of what they do. People might say the extension to Leith is our biggest success but actually I’ve built a few extensions now - this was the smallest I have built. But now people hold their heads up high and are proud to say they work for Edinburgh Trams. The biggest thing I have done is turn public perception round - not everybody of course, but we made the Leith extension a success by the work of the team here. If we hadn’t made the first line a success, then the council would not have been persuaded to say yes to the extension.”

Tram drivers in Edinburgh all train for about two months on simulators and then in real trams before they are taken out on the line with a driver accompanying them for the first while.

And Lea is enthusiastic about the simulators and visualisers as a way of training drivers without risk to them, the trams or the drivers, and also as a means of refreshing drivers’ knowledge.

And he points out that the visualisers could easily be used as a tool to show the public what any extension would look like from Roseburn to the north of the city for example. He said: “Our simulator is an amazing piece of kit. It is actually a tram cab with all the equipment in it so it is a proper experience.

“First impressions count, and this is impressive making people think this is an organisation they want to work for. We can see within minutes if they are cut out for the job. It is a really good use of gaming technology.”

First day in 2014 at Gyle

Testing the line in 2013

Thomas Haywood Photography

Lea in the hot seat

NT Art Month is back

Have you explored the amazing art galleries on your doorstep? If not, it’s time to take a stroll down to the New Town this June where art abounds

NT ART MONTH is back for its second edition celebrating art galleries in the New Town. This festival, which launched last year, is all about Edinburgh’s independent art galleries and encourages residents to engage with the arts on their doorstep.

Use the festival map to go on an arts walking tour. Throughout June there are some lovely events to enjoy with artist coffee mornings, foundry tours, live painting demonstrations, collection tours and even gin tasting at Holyrood Distillery.

Most of the events are free and you can see the full programme at www.ntart.org.

At the festival launch night on 6 June all the galleries throw open their doors so it is a great time to explore, soak up some amazing art and enjoy the drinks from the festival sponsors. And The Pickled Piper will be around on Dundas Street adding to the Scottish cheer.

The 2024 festival is sponsored by wealth manager Investec Wealth & Investment UK, who are part of the Rathbones Group. Angus Kerr, Head of Scotland & Northern Ireland at Rathbones, said: We hope that local people, whether they are seasoned visitors to art galleries or have never stepped into one before, take the opportunity to come together and enjoy a shared cultural experience of walking the streets to see the artwork on display as part of the festival.”

THE 2024 FESTIVAL GALLERIES AND PARTICIPANTS ARE:

• & GALLERY

• ART IN HEALTHCARE

• ATELIER GALLERY

• HARVEY & WOODD

• HERIOT GALLERY

• OPEN EYE GALLERY

• PAULIINA MARJANEN AT GOOD BROTHERS

• POWDERHALL BRONZE EDITIONS

• THE FINE ART SOCIETY

• THE SCOTTISH GALLERY

• WATSON GALLERY

The festival is also supported by Good Brothers, Holyrood Distillery and The List, and is organised by Chloé Nelkin Consulting.

www.ntart.org

@ntartmonth

THE FINE ART SOCIETY:

“The summer exhibitions at The Fine Art Society sees work by Gerald Laing (19362011), pop artist and sculptor, return to the gallery in a show that explores the muses that inspired him during his long career. We examine the cult of celebrity and how it affected the lives of those it scrutinised. In our upper gallery, we will show paintings by Scottish painters that display their work at the height of their talent: an exquisite Pre-Raphaelite painting of Loch Achray by Waller Hugh Paton, a swagger portrait by society portraitist Sir John Lavery and a substantial landscape of Dunvegan Castle by Sir D Y Cameron amongst others. Our gallery is in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and has operated from this space since the mid 1990s and has had a presence in Edinburgh since the early 1970s. NT Art Month is wonderful opportunity for us to collaborate with neighbouring galleries in Edinburgh.”

OPEN EYE GALLERY:

“We are delighted to be taking part again this year in the second NT Art Month. It is wonderful to see so many galleries unite and celebrate the many diverse artists they represent.

“The area around Dundas Street has been the heart of private galleries in Edinburgh for many years. A leisurely stroll down the hill from the National Gallery on the Mound takes you into the New Town, where over a dozen private galleries can be found. The Open Eye Gallery sits at the top of Dundas Street and the corner of Abercromby Place. Situated on the ground floor of a beautiful Georgian town house, the space offers five airy and bright exhibition rooms. Established in 1982, we are proud to represent some of Scotland finest artists, including Barbara Rae, Leon Morrocco and John Bellany (1942-2013). With a varied and diverse exhibition programme each month.

“This year we are delighted to be showing two of our most popular artists during NT Art Month, Chris Bushe and Kirsty Wither.”

&GALLERY:

Emily Moore: “I am really pleased my exhibition at &Gallery coincides with NT Art Month this year. The gallery had a record number of visitors through the door for last year’s NTAM launch night, so it’s a great opportunity for people to discover my work. I’ll be attending this year’s opening event, so look forward to seeing a lot of new faces and chatting about my artwork.

“Fragmented Landscapes, which takes inspiration from the mountainous alpine landscapes I have visited, is my second solo exhibition with the gallery. In this new body of work I have been experimenting with a variety of materials and mark making. I work directly onto birch panels, constructing the paintings layer upon layer, an approach that owes a lot to printmaking logic.”.

Duncan McGlynn

Duncan McGlynn

Duncan McGlynn

Duncan McGlynn

Martin P McAdam

Andrew Perry

7 - 30 JUNE 2 02 4

JUNE

A celebration of the incredible independent art galleries in Edinburgh’s New Town.

Pick up an NT Art Month map and get walking!

Participating Galleries

1. &Gallery

2. Harvey & Woodd

3. Heriot Gallery

4. The Open Eye Gallery

5. Powderhall Bronze Editions

6. The Atelier Gallery

7. The Fine Art Society

8. The Scottish Gallery

9. Watson Gallery

10. Pauliina Marjanen Pop-Up Exhibition

Good Brothers Wine Cellars

11. Opening Night & Event Host

Art In Healthcare

Open for selected events only, this is an opportunity to find out the secrets of this unique collection

Popular New Town S pots

New Town Fox

Urban Angel

Di Giorgio

Rotonda Cafe

The Art Club

Greyfriars Art Shop

Epitome

Bacco Wine

Cuckoos Bakey

The Tollhouse

The Royal Scots Club

Stewart Christie & Co

Debbie Anderson invites you to take yourself back to your childhood with traditional jars of sweets in her shop. Chewits and fudge will take you back a decade or two. Open from 10am except Mondays. Handy for the tram.

102 Leith Walk EH16 5DT 0131 554 1401

Love Your Business networking club is relaxed, informal and good fun, and held at Black Ivy on the last Thursday of the month with a host of inspiring speakers sharing their entrepreneurial journeys and invaluable business tips. www.lybnetworking.com Facebook/howtolyb

Very reasonable rates allow start-ups to use the small pop-up space as the first rung on the ladder. From food to political parties and all manner of organisations in between. Have a look at their pop-up garden when you visit. Croall Place EH7 4LT hello@leithwalkpolicebox.com

Subscribe today and have your own copy of The Edinburgh Reporter delivered to your front door from next month - in its own compostable envelope. Or donate a subscription to a friend as a wee present. The gift which keeps on giving all year long ter.ooo.subscribe

Vlad has a unique style at 48 Thistle Street with great coffee and above average chat . He may even play chess with you. The city centre micro roastery is increasingly the place to go. Coffee also available to order online if you are working from home. cobbledroasters.co.uk

Donate any unwanted items to this shop on Gilmore Place knowing that they will find a loving new home. Very little ever goes to landfill. Visit the shop to pick up a copy of our latest paper and also to admire their innovative and ever-changing window displays. birthlink.org.uk

Discovering and exhibiting the best of local made art, accessories, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, homeware and much more from local creatives. Markets at Portobello Town Hall, Greyfriars Hall, St Giles’ Cathedral and at The Neighbourgood Market. supportthemakersuk.com

The gallery focuses on original paintings, prints and fine crafts inspired by nature. Wide price range to accommodate various budgets. Jurgita warmly welcomes you to Dundas Street. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11am-4pm. birchtreegallery.co.uk

Invisible Cities is a social enterprise that trains people who have experienced homelessness to become walking guides of their own city. This is the alternative tour for locals and tourists alike. Book tours in Edinburgh, York, Manchester and Glasgow. invisible-cities.org

Subscribe today and have your own copy of The Edinburgh Reporter delivered to your front door from next month - in its own compostable envelope. Or donate a subscription to a friend as a wee present. The gift which keeps on giving all year long. ter.ooo.subscribe

Subscribe today and have your own copy of The Edinburgh Reporter delivered to your front door from next month - in its own compostable envelope. Or donate a subscription to a friend as a wee present. The gift which keeps on giving all year long. ter.ooo.subscribe

Bespoke tailoring for men. Craig’s focus is on making the highest quality personally tailored attire that others will aspire to. His pyjamas and dressing gowns will make your video calls or working from home very stylish. 0131 226 7775 • 45 Thistle Street EH2 1DY • craigbankstailoring.com

A neat wee café and deli, Rotonda sells imported Mediterranean goods, as well as home baked goods, both sweet and savoury. Everything is home baked and cooked by owner Rebecca in house. 23c Dundas Street EH3 6QQ rotondaltd@gmail.com

Do go to this beautiful wee shop filled with Italian handmade goods. Bag a bargain in store at 44 Dundas Street or online -and all will be beautifullyparcelled up with gorgeous turquoise ribbon and tissue for a friend if you can bear to give it away... www.salentoshop.co.uk

Heriot Gallery features exciting work by established and emerging contemporary artists. Exhibitions change regularly and there is always new work to view. Have a look at their website and add your email to the mailing list for Private Views. www.heriotgallery.com Manda and her team will look after all your beauty requirements from massage to manicure. Perfectly located

Sailmaker winner of the Master medal at the Scotch Whisky Masters encompasses hand-selected sherry casks from Lowland, Speyside and Highland distilleries. This and the full range of independent bottlings can be found in specialist stores. ardgowandistillerycom/stockists

Clydebuilt

BOTHY COFFEE

Life through a lens

Unassuming Stanley Reilly was dealt a tough hand as a youngster growing up in Edinburgh but he carved out a new life which led to him being up close and personal with some of the world’s most famous celebrities, as Phyllis Stephen discovered.

Achildhood spent in care homes, a speech stammer and a period living rough on the streets of London would be enough to pull anyone under but Stanley Reilly pictured a different life for himself.

But even optimistic Stanley could not have envisaged that life would involve rubbing shoulders with some of the greatest stars of music, stage and screen from the Swinging Sixties onwards as he developed a passion for photography.

Born in The Royal Infirmary in the 1940s, he lived with his mother for his initial years before a mental health breakdown led to her three children being placed into care. Sadly, the family was split up and Stanley never got to know his older siblings.

At 16 he went to live at Ponton House, a working men’s home near the Palais dance hall in Fountainbridge, and found work as a labourer. The home managed money for their residents, and so he had some savings when he finally left care at 18, but he was very much left to find his own way. Looking back he believes that his severe childhood stammer deterred potential foster parents adopting him.

He first moved south in 1965 “around the time that Winston Churchill died”. After sleeping rough for about six months he contacted the Salvation Army for help. Stanley had some experience of the charity, as “every Christmas they used to come to the home and play music for us and give us all a present”. The Sally Army assisted in finding a bedsit in Tufnell Park in North London where he lived for the next five years.

Stanley liked to frequent Leicester Square, watching the stars arriving at film premieres and it was there that he met well-known Spanish press photographer, Antonio Rios - a meeting which helped transform a young man down on his luck and kickstart a “career” in photography.

Stanley recalled: “I was working as a labourer on the building sites and later became a fitter’s mate at the Royal Marsden Hospital where I worked for about 23 years. It was only five minutes from where I then lived in Chelsea. It was all thanks to Tony that I went to live at Ashburnham Mansions just off Cheyne Walk, with Bob Geldof living across the way - I became really friendly with him.”

Tony advised him to “go on a course” so Stanley attended the Camera Club, and before long he was snapping models at photo studios, honing his skills first of all with his £100 Pentax Spotmatic camera and adding some additional lenses and flash as his skills developed. When he was aged ten he had been given a Kodak camera as a present and had to save his pocket

money to buy film. Even now he has boxes and boxes of photos he has taken during his lifeand some negatives which have never been printed.

He said: “After work, I used to go out at night and weekends taking pictures with Tony who asked me to be his assistant, either at premieres or at Pinewood Studios. I had a nice suit and tie and I was just so proud to be with all the photographers.

“I covered the premiere of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang when a young Prince of Wales arrived. The car had stopped and I went forward to take a photo of Prince Charles through the window - that photo was used all over Europe.”

He photographed Princess Diana during a visit to the Royal Marsden and witnessed the way photographers followed her relentlessly which he found “quite sad”. He also met huge stars, including Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in 1969 at their house in north London, and later captured snaps of them outside a London hotel. The cameras used by photographers at the time were expensive and heavy, but working with Tony as his assistant gave Stanley the chance to use the best of gear such as a Leica.

Back then he had to get the film developed and then take the prints to the publishers, not like today when press photos are sent straight from the camera to newspaper picture desks. Although photography was not his main job - and he admits it was always more of a hobby to him - it was one he loved. Asked to pick out a favourite photo out of the thousands he has taken over the years, Stanley said without hesitation: “I think the moment when I photographed John Lennon at an exhibition on the King’s Road stands out. It was at the time The Beatles had been shooting the album cover for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. I got this amazing shot - I was so close to him.” Stanley also has shots of John and Yoko Ono with anti-war placards in his collection.

A meeting with Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, was also a high point for him. He had read in the news that the Apollo 11 astronauts were to visit Downing Street - a street that was open to the public at the time and minus the current day anti-terrorist high security measures which are in place. He recalled it was night time but he saw the astronauts arriving and posing at the front door of 10 Downing Street with Prime Minister

Below left - Elton John who Stanley recalls was “shy”

Below right - Sean

Connery

Bottom right - John Lennon and Yoko Ono

Harold Wilson. He said: “I got the shots printed up quickly because there were only about three or four photographers there.”

He also had the opportunity of meeting and photographing Edinburgh’s own 007 Sean Connery at The Savoy hotel. Stanley said: “Sean was always so nice to me. I’ve got some lovely photographs of him and I met him in Edinburgh with actor Michael Caine.”

Stanley explained that he went through a “very bad patch” of depression and anxiety when he took early retirement and moved back to Edinburgh some 30 years ago. He became involved with Scotland’s HIV and Hepatitis C charity Waverley Care, eventually becoming a volunteer and then he took up photography again.

When he became well enough, Waverley Care helped him to stage an exhibition of his photos and publish a book, “Being There”, which raised funds for the charity. Sir Elton John kindly wrote a foreword for his book - Stanley had met him and photographed him and others like Ken Dodd, Dickie Henderson, Jimmy Tarbuck and Bruce Forsyth at press calls at the London Palladium. He said: “Elton John was very shy and wore big fur coats and t-shirts and big glasses. He was terrific playing the piano.” Stanley, who is modest about his achievements, said: “Since I moved back to Edinburgh people have been so nice to me. I raised money for Waverley Care with my exhibition in Harvey Nichols, and there was another exhibition in The Dome. I would quite like to do another exhibition - some photos are still in frames ready to be hung.”

For the last 10 years he has taken photos

with a small Nikon digital camera and he prints some of these to keep. There is hardly an important occasion in Edinburgh when Stanley is not present - particularly during the Fringe and Film Festival over the last three decades.

At the 2023 Assembly Fringe launch, a silver-haired man was invited onto the stage by comedian and compere, Jason Byrne, who thought he had just plucked an unsuspecting member of the public from the audience. Little did the Irish comic know that every member of the press pack recognised that the real star on stage was Stanley Reilly, the photographer who once lived next door to Engelbert Humperdinck.

Grant Sugden, Chief Executive of Waverley Care said: “Stanley Reilly has been an integral part of Waverley Care for many years. He began volunteering for Waverley Care during the 1990s, and his dedication to fundraising and supporting the charity has had a lasting impact in Waverley Care’s history.

“Stanley’s passion for photography led to the creation of his book ‘Being There’, providing a

I couldn’t have it any better. I was very lucky and it all worked out for me especially with the help of the Salvation Army and then Waverley Care.

photographic insight into the glamorous world of politics and celebrities of the 1960s and 70s. We are honoured that the proceeds of ‘Being There’ have been donated to Waverley Care with the intention of supporting those affected by HIV.

“Stanley believed that the volunteering he undertook with Waverley Care gave him the ‘confidence to look ahead with optimism’ and through publishing this book, wanted to share his optimism with the world. Stanley’s work, and his passion for supporting the charity holds an important place within Waverley Care’s legacy, and we are extremely grateful for his steadfast support of the charity.”

Stanley said: “I wouldn’t change anything. I had a hard time when I went to London but a lot of my friends from my time in care joined the Army. I couldn’t do that as I was dyslexic. Now life is very good for me. I still get invited to parties you know! I couldn’t have it any better. I was very lucky and it all worked out for me, especially with the help of the Salvation Army and then Waverley Care.”

Above top left - Dusty Springfield

Above left - Stanley with his model looks

Above centre - Peter Sellers

Above - Stanley showing Ricky Demarco his book

Above top - HM The Queen at the Royal Palladium

Above right - Shirley Bassey

Ticket giveaway a bonus for regular Loganair passenger

Airline grows its presence in Edinburgh

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

AS LOGANAIR COUNTED carrying more than one million passengers, the airline gifted free flights to one of its regulars.

Gemma Smith works in the oil and gas industry as a nurse and she was travelling from Orkney to Edinburgh when she received the free tickets. She regularly flies from Kirkwall with the airline for work offshore and she is a member of the frequent flyer programme.

Gemma visited Edinburgh reuniting with friends she had not seen since before the pandemic.

Gemma said: “I fly with Loganair regularly for work so it’s really nice to be travelling for leisure today and to top things off, I have been lucky enough to be given some free flights.

“I’m looking forward to using the tickets to take a trip with my partner and I’m hoping to

fly to London for a weekend to visit Harry Potter World!”

As it builds on its one million customer milestone, Loganair has set out plans for carrying its largest-ever number of customers through Edinburgh Airport in Summer 2024 with up to a 35% increase in seat capacity on a number of routes.

The airline will introduce two new ATR72600 Next Generation turboprops to its operating base at the airport, with eight new jobs created at Edinburgh for cabin crew to operate the larger aircraft.

Luke Lovegrove, Chief Commercial Officer at Loganair, said: “Edinburgh is a key hub for us and we are thrilled to celebrate carrying over one million customers as we continue to grow operations at the airport.

“Connectivity is at the core of our operations and to celebrate with one of our Clan Loganair

customers, Gemma, is fantastic as she demonstrates how vital our network is in keeping her connected for work but also with loved ones.

“We look forward to another busy year at Edinburgh Airport as we increase capacity to connect even more customers in the year ahead.”

Kate Sherry, Chief Commercial Officer (Aero) at Edinburgh Airport, said: “We’d like to congratulate Loganair and its teams here at Edinburgh on this milestone. It is further evidence of the fantastic offering it has provided passengers down the years.

First for Edinburgh Gin

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

EDINBURGH GIN has opened a small boutique at Edinburgh Airport - its first dedicated retail space there with a full range of products.

This includes the new full-strength flavour, Key Lime & Ginger, which is only available for the UK World Duty Free market.

The design reflects The Arches on Market Street where the firm will open its new distillery and visitor centre in the autumn.

William Ovens, Ian Macleod Distillers Global Travel Retail Director, said: “We are thrilled to introduce this wonderful retail experience, a major milestone for Edinburgh Gin which reflects the strategic

importance of Travel Retail to the brand. Edinburgh Airport is one of the top outlets in the world for Edinburgh Gin sales, so we are very confident the boutique will be a real success.”

“Edinburgh Gin plays a leading and pioneering role in the gin category and this exciting collaboration showcases Edinburgh Gin’s flavour, craft and creativity.”

“Passing the one million passenger mark is a great achievement as the airline continues to offer important connections across the UK and beyond, facilitating holidays, business and education opportunities, and family get-togethers.

“We look forward to working with Loganair on the ongoing success of its operation at Edinburgh Airport, and continuing to build on what has already been achieved. Here’s to the next million passengers.”

Customers can receive rewards, including free flights, by signing up to Clan Loganair via loganair.co.uk

Red Carnation blossoms in the capital

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

A NEW LUXURY HOTEL at 100 Princes Street has just opened its doors quite quietly.

Inside the rooms are inspired by a mural depicting Scottish explorers and adventurers who used to visit the building when it was The Royal Overseas League.

The hotel is a cross between a celebration of all things Scottish and a “chic private members club”.

There are 30 rooms and suites, a dining room and lounge as well as a private dining room offering more than 100 whiskies and custom tasting menus.

The Red Carnation brand is synonymous with luxury and

attention to detail with other hotels in the company such as Ashford Castle in Ireland, and The Milestone in Kensington.

Araminta Campbell has created the decor with custom-made furnishings, fabrics and artworks with five handpicked tartans featured throughout.

The best part of being in 100 Princes Street is the view to Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle which can be admired from the dining areas.

The hotel offers a collection of experiences for its guests including fishing on the River Tweed and gin tastings.

www.100princes-street.com

L-R Ross Kirkton (First Officer), Gemma Smith, Nayha Khan (Cabin Crew), and Aftab Sarwar (Captain) at Edinburgh Airport

Room with

Sharing Royal memories

The Book Festival want to hear some stories

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

THE REDEVELOPMENT of the former Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh into the exciting Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI) is almost complete.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival (EIBF) will take up residence in the newly refurbished building this August, and as part of their preparation, the festival has issued a call for “Words from the Wards” as a public writing project.

The stories when put together on a website, and also shared in multi-art form events during August, will give a respectful nod to the legacy of the Infirmary - where so many Edinburgh residents were born, or attended to in times of emergency.

The EIBF wants to hear from people in Edinburgh or further afield to share their memories. Alongside the public submissions the project will also feature contributions from Edinburgh authors and artists including Dr Gavin Francis, Michael Pederson, Hannah Lavery, Sara Sheridan, Lisa Williams and Kirstin Innes.

Stories are published at www.ontheroad. edbookfest.co.uk and will be a virtual time

capsule of memories from those who visited or worked there. Some of the authors will be invited to read their words during on-site events during the festival.

Noëlle Cobden, EIBF Communities

Programme Director said: “We’re incredibly excited that the Book Festival’s new home is the Edinburgh Futures Institute - not just because of the visionary ideas and projects at its heart, but because of its building’s rich and meaningful history. The Old Royal Infirmary is where many local residents - and those now further afield - took their first breaths, and its walls have witnessed uncountable moments of hope, fear, joy, and grief. We want to capture and honour the experiences, relationships and memories that people connect with the building’s previous life, as the Book Festival becomes part of its future. We hope that as many people as possible will share their stories with us, as our fantastic associated writers will also do, and can’t wait to discover the hidden, personal histories which make this place so special.”

Writer Kirstin Innes said: “Like many, many people born in Edinburgh, I began in this building. Of course, I don’t remember that but I do remember being 19 and going back there,

visiting my grandfather in the early stages of dementia, after he’d had a stroke. Thinking about this commission has already started conjuring scents and sounds - hospital bleach, my footsteps on the stone staircase, the scrape of a chair on aged linoleum. This place means so much to so many of us - it’s an honour to be asked to write something about it.”

The EFI has been transformed by architects

Looking back in history with The Old Edinburgh Club

4TH

In 1694, the Merchant Maiden Hospital, later known as The Mary Erskine School, was founded by Mary Erskine in the Cowgate. And in 1792, the most serious outbreak of the King’s Birthday riots began, lasting three days and nights which coincided with the birthday of King George III; during the riots at least one person was killed, and an effigy of the King hung; these were a response to the Corn Laws which had led to a rise in food prices. Also in 1818 the first recorded inter-club golf match between Edinburgh Burgess Golfing Society and Bruntsfield Links Golf Club took place.

10TH

In 1903, the floral clock in Princes Street Gardens began operation –driven by clockwork and with only an hour hand, it was the first of its kind in the world.

11TH

In 1560, Mary of Guise died of dropsy in Edinburgh Castle.

13TH

In 1831, scientist James Clerk Maxwell was born at number 14 India Street, Edinburgh; on his arrival at the Edinburgh Academy in 1841, he was nicknamed ‘daftie’ by his classmates, due to his home-made clothing and rustic accent; despite the teasing, he excelled at the school, producing a paper on mathematical curves at the age of fourteen – this impressed scientists of the day so much that it was presented to the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

15TH

In 1567, the Queen (Mary of Scots) handed herself over to the Lords of the Congregation who took her to the house of the Lord Provost, Sir Simon Preston, in Edinburgh; his house was known as the Black Turnpike which stood at the head of Peebles Wynd; it was demolished in the 1780s to make way for the South Bridge and Hunter Square.

16TH

In 1890, the Caledonian Rail Station, built of timber with a pitched, slated roof and which had been called the “wooden shanty”, was destroyed by fire.

18TH

Bennetts Associates for owners, The University of Edinburgh and will be a multidisciplinary space with state of the art teaching facilities, rooms for co-working with industry partners, incubation spaces for business, labs and exhibition and performance spaces.

The project has created a major public piazza, new garden spaces, and several new points of access from adjoining streets.

In 1633, Charles I was crowned King of Scots at St Giles Cathedral. And in 1815, Ensign Ewart captured the French Ensign at the Battle of Waterloo as commemorated in the pub in the Lawnmarket.

26TH

In 1695, the Company of Scotland, which was behind the ill-fated Darien Scheme (an attempt to establish a colony in the New World), was founded. The Company had its headquarters at Darien House in Edinburgh; the

company was ruined within five years after the failure of the scheme within which up to a third of the country’s wealth became entangled; attempts to trade with local tribes proved almost impossible and after a run of disease and the refusal of help from the existing Spanish and English colonies, the settlement was abandoned; the failure of the Company led to the political union of Scotland and England in 1707.

28TH

In 1610, thirty-six pirates were brought to Edinburgh from Orkney of whom twenty-seven were hanged in Leith within the sea-mark. And in 1871, the tramways bill was passed enabling a horse-drawn system of trams to be established.

The full list which is compiled by Jerry Ozaniec, Membership Secretary of the Old Edinburgh Club can be read on our website theedinburghreporter.co.uk Email Jerry : membership@ oldedinburghclub.org.uk

Former hospital has tales to tell

CAFÉ SCENE: FORMAT COFFEE SHOP

By Charlie Ellis

Format to close

Not all coffee shops are the same - and not all survive

THE STEADY EXPANSION of the coffee scene in the UK, especially the rise of specialty coffee, has been represented in this column. New places have opened in Edinburgh at a steady rate, with several of the new entrants (such as Beatnik in Tollcross) adding variety and quality to what is available. But, this expansion is not always smooth and many places have struggled and indeed fallen by the wayside. I have plenty of loyalty cards for places that no longer exist.

The difficulties of upholding the highest standards specialty coffee while maintaining a viable business are very evident. It’s not an easy way to make money. An example of a specialty coffee bar wrestling with the issues thrown up by entering the mainstream is provided by Cairngorm Coffee. In their podcast, Cairncast, they regularly discuss the difficulties of facing an increasingly competitive market while still seeking to please the coffee purists seeking constant novelty. In short, ‘how to stand out’ in a ‘saturated market’.

One specialty place that has failed to survive is Format, 124 Buccleuch Street at the eastern tip of the Meadows. This place has demonstrated that producing consistently good coffee, as it has, is not sufficient. Format has had a number of peaks and troughs.

Owner Andrew cut a rather dispirited figure as he discussed the imminent closure of his coffee bar.

The place has, over the last few months, struggled to reach the type of turnover required. This struggle has, Andrew admits, “been stressful” and has taken some toll on his physical and mental health. He admits that his wrists “are knackered” from all the coffee he has pressed and he’s sometimes struggled to sleep. He has poured much time, energy and money into making Format work. This includes investing in a custommade machine, which has allowed him to make very minor adjustments to really bring the best out of the beans he has used. These have come from renowned roasters such as Edinburgh based Obadiah Coffee. It’s certainly not the quality of the coffee that has let him down.

Andrew feels that, with the expansion of the sector, the coffee market in Edinburgh “has become diluted… competition is crazy”. His local area was already competitive with Cult, one of the very best coffee places in Edinburgh, just two doors down. More recently, Greek influenced Lady and the Bear has opened while Summerhall has significantly improved its coffee offer with the opening of the M.F. Coffee Project. These two entries have

CROSSWORD

severely cut into his trade; Summerhall staff were “a considerable part” of his customer base.

The very wet weather this spring has been the final straw, completely decimating his takeaway trade as people sought out cosy dry nooks. Ultimately, “the business is no longer sustainable”. Andrew contrasts it with the lockdown period, when his trade was very strong - when customers were prepared to put up with lengthy queues.

It all highlights the fact that those who go to specialty coffee places do so for different reasons. Only a proportion focus primarily on the quality of the coffee. Many are looking for a place where they can study and work or a nice environment to meet up with friends. Format’s rather poky interior is not for such users (nor the lack of a loo for customers). In contrast, the Lady and the Bear may offer inferior coffee but they do so in a beautiful setting, full of natural light and with superb views over onto the Meadows. As Andrew notes, the desire to sit in for coffee really dominates in a city with a climate such as Edinburgh’s. Only recently I enjoyed a week in Athens, where I was able, in April, to sit outside in a city square, eating and drinking coffee late into the night. That simply isn’t possible in Edinburgh, apart from during very

ACROSS

7 LOFTIERWHEAT (anagram) (5, 2, 5)

9 Banter, humorous chat (8)

10 Pro, specialist (6)

11 Opportunity (6)

12 Tell off, rebuke (8)

15 Criticise harshly (7)

16 Earthquake-induced wave (7)

19 Power, might (8) 21 Baby’s noisy toy (6) 22 Church song (6) 24 Waterfall (8) 25 Himalayan peak (5, 7)

rare heatwaves.

The rising costs of specialty coffee beans has also been a factor. He’s tried to keep prices steady but admits it’s very difficult when many places are serving significantly cheaper “industrial coffee” but charging similar prices.

Only a relatively small proportion are prepared to pay more for better. Rising staff costs and a difficulty of holding on to good baristas has also been a major headache (“sometimes I’ve trained people up for several months, only for them to move elsewhere”).

Despite all this, Andrew retains his

By Aldhelm

1 Darling (10)

2 Achievable (10)

3 Male siblings (8)

4 Crime (7)

5 Swiss lakeside city (6)

6 Tread, pace (4)

8 Unit of capacity (5)

13 (Simply) The Best singer (4, 6)

14 Straightforwardness, ease (10)

17 Walked proudly, swaggered (8)

18 Hen (7)

19 Neckwear (5)

20 Zodiac twins (6)

23 Ring, circle (4)

deep passion for specialty coffee and may get back in the game at some point. He lives in Portobello and thinks that there may be some opportunities to open something there -”but I won’t be rushing into anything”. And present though, Format coffee manifests the difficulty of maintaining a sustainable speciality coffee business. Format won’t be the last to struggle.

As Andrew noted:“When a place as busy as Brew Lab closes, you know it’s not easy”. It will be interesting to see how Origin Coffee get on having taken over Brew Lab’s premises. Things are never static for long in Edinburgh’s coffee scene.

SOLUTION Across: 7 Water of Leith, 9 Repartee, 10 Expert, 11 Chance, 12 Chastise, 15 Lambast, 16 Tsunami, 19 Strength, 21 Rattle, 22 Anthem, 24 Cataract, 25 Mount Everest.

Down: 1 Sweetheart, 2 Attainable, 3 Brothers, 4 Offence, 5 Geneva, 6 Step, 8 Litre, 13 Tina

Turner, 14 Simplicity, 17 Strutted, 18 Chicken, 19 Scarf, 20 Gemini, 23 Hoop.

Hotel Du Vin Bistro has that je ne sais quoi

Kerry finds hotel’s French bistro offers a petit coin of excellence in the city centre

PREPARE TO BE ENTICED into the culinary realm of Hotel Du Vin, an enchanting gem nestled near Bristo Square. There’s lots to tempt you in to dine at Hotel Du Vin, near Bristo Square.

Don’t be put off that it’s part of a 19-hotel chain, their dark wood-panelled bistro, adorned with flattened wine bottles and wine-inspired prints, is the perfect place to sample classical French dishes with a modern twist.

Under the creative helm of Chef Director Matt Powell, the new spring/summer menu has undergone a transformation, embodying the very essence of France. Celebrating seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, the revamped à la carte menu invites diners to revel in a brasserie-style setting that exudes charm and sophistication.

While Hotel du Vin once prided itself on a wine-centric ethos, now sans dedicated sommeliers, rest assured, their wine selection remains unparalleled. During a recent visit to sample their spring/summer offerings, each course was impeccably paired with wines meticulously chosen to elevate the dining experience.

French bistro Manager, Alexi, adds an authentic touch of French flair, regaling guests with tales of each wine’s origin and character as he pours, invoking that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’

that defines French elegance and style.

Accommodating dietary preferences with finesse, my tailored menu mirrored the essence of their ‘Taste Du Vin’ experience, offering a curated glimpse into the culinary prowess of the establishment.

Commencing with an amuse-bouche of crisp mushroom arancini and smoked cheese atop a homemade oatcake, the tantalising journey began. While my dining companions delighted in chicken liver parfait and smoked salmon, these delectable morsels vanished in the blink of an eye.

Although my starter of beetroot and goat’s cheese salad left me yearning for more of the creamy cheese and a bolder dressing to offset the sweetness of the shallot and beetroot, the generous portion of Cumbrae Oysters, served with shallot vinaigrette, captivated my fellow diners, potentially birthing new oyster enthusiasts.

Accompanying both starters was a Verdejo from Spain, its golden hue and notes of candied peel providing a splendid complement to the diverse flavours on offer.

As my companions savoured Pan Roasted Hake with Warm Tartare Sauce and Parmentier Potatoes, my own course of Sauteed Mushrooms on Toasted Sourdough with Madeira Sauce evoked nostalgic sensations reminiscent of

garlic-laden snails found in traditional French bistros. Paired with an Australian Hills and Valleys Riesling boasting citrusy undertones, the harmony of flavours was unmistakable.

The pièce de résistance arrived in the form of lightly Spiced Lamb Rump with a Red Wine Jus, accompanied by aromatic couscous speckled with pomegranate and dollops of tangy and creamy tahini yoghurt. It was a harmonious symphony of flavours and textures, with each component complementing and enhancing the others. The wine pairing of Chateau Belleverne Chenas Beaujolais, deep and beetroot-stained in colour, with its palate of ripe plums, and a gorgeous, velvety texture, and smooth tannins was so deliciously drinkable, I begged for a top-up.

Dessert unfolded as a giant sharing profiterole, adorned with vegan ice cream (you couldn’t tell) and a decadent pouring chocolate sauce, igniting lively debate over the optimal temperature for the profiterole. Paired with Six Grapes by Graham’s Port, boasting luscious black fruit flavours, the indulgence reached new heights.

The crescendo arrived with a full-bodied

Chateau Penin Bordeaux Superieur Tradition, its rich palate of red fruits perfectly complementing a plate of three cheeses accompanied by celery, grapes, wafer-thin biscuits, and a homemade chutney reminiscent of a fruity Christmas pudding.

So, when next in the vicinity of Bristo Square, Edinburgh, allow yourself to escape the hustle and bustle, and immerse in the quintessence of French cuisine at Hotel Du Vin. From the enticing ‘Taste Du Vin’ menu to the value-packed Prix Fixe options, there’s something to tantalise every palate. Whether it’s a leisurely Sunday lunch or their great value Chateaubriand and Malbec deal or the quintessential Afternoon Tea, Hotel du Vin promises an unforgettable culinary experience steeped in elegance and charm.

And if Graduation celebrations are looming, Hotel du Vin with its close proximity to McEwan Hall, and its 3-course Graduation menu, with a glass of Champagne, couldn’t be a more perfect location to celebrate those four-years of hard work in a relaxed setting.

www.hotelduvin.com/locations/edinburgh/

Culinary capers in the capital with Kerry Teakle

An epic journey, a life-changing holiday, a Fifties’ whirlwind

romance

and a dive into London’s clubland are just some of the stories waiting to be told on Edinburgh and London stages.

At its heart, no matter how you dress it up, theatre is simply storytelling. It’s about the ability of a writer and a performer to share an adventure, an emotion, a happy ever after. The best can do this with words alone. Of course, with the right dressing, whether that be staging, lighting or sound design, a great story can become even more magical and that is exactly what you’ll find at the Festival Theatre later this month when Life Of Pi (25-29 June) sails on to the Nicolson Street stage.

Based on the Man Booker Prize winning book by Yann Martel, which has now sold more than 15 million copies worldwide, and having conquered the West End and Broadway to great acclaim, the Olivier Award-winning play comes to Edinburgh as it embarks on its first-ever UK tour. The story revolves around 16-year-old Pi Patel. After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, the teenager finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors - a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger called Richard Parker. As they coexist for 227 days, Life of Pi uses

jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry to create a magical piece of storytelling that has been described as ‘a wonder to behold’ as it regales audiences with an epic journey of endurance and hope. Must See Theatre, indeed.

Running time 2 hours 10 minutes, including interval. Tickets £28.50-£52.50 https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/ all-shows/life-of-pi/2135

Over at the Lyceum right now, they’re planning the launch of their 24/25 Season. All will be revealed on 3 June and, shortly after those revelations, another well loved play, Shirley Valentine (12-29 June), checks into Grindlay Street for a 17 night stay. Bringing the hit Pitlochry Festival Theatre production of Willy Russell’s bittersweet classic to the Lyceum finds Sally Reid reprising her awardwinning, ‘outstanding’ performance in the title role of a piece that has been called ‘a celebration of women, freedom and what it means to find yourself again’.

We meet Shirley, a bored, middle-aged wife

Award-winner Sally Reid is ‘outstanding’ as Shirley Valentine

Edinburgh’s Mr Entertainment picks his Hot Tickets to see in the Capital and beyond

and mother as she contemplates what has happened to her youth. She feels lonely, disenchanted and in a rut. Her children are all grown up and she’s stuck at home with only the kitchen wall to talk to. Shirley dreams of a better life, free from the chains of her domestic boredom and an unappreciative husband. When her best friend suggests a trip to Greece, Shirley packs her bags, leaves a note on the cupboard door and heads off for a fortnight of rest and relaxation. However, in Greece, she meets Costas, rediscovers herself, finds happiness and everything she has been missing. She realises that there is more to life than the dull, mundane existence she leads back home. Now, Shirley has a big decision to make... Funny and beautifully observed,

Running time TBC (The piece usually runs approx 2 hours 10 minutes with interval). Tickets £14-£35 from https://lyceum.org.uk/events/ shirley-valentine#dates-and-times

Edinburgh’s very own Doody, local actor Keiran Lynch (you may have seen him as Peter Pan in last year’s panto at the Festival Theatre) rolls into The Playhouse this month, or should that be ‘rock’n’rolls’, as a new ‘grittier’ explosion of summer loving comes to town. Yes, we’re heading back to Rydell High where there may be a new term starting but Grease (25-29 June) is still the word. When has the story of Sandy and Danny ever not had us under its spell?

After a whirlwind holiday romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for her senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more? It doesn’t really matter that everyone knows the answer already, Grease is now one of the world’s best-loved musicals. Actually, it has always been, just ask anyone of a certain

generation who will remember queues outside the ABC and other cinemas for weeks on end to see the movie when it was first released. Forty-six years on, Danny Zuko and Sandy Olsson are still stealing hearts.  That said, the great thing about Grease is the fact it’s another of those musicals where it doesn’t really matter who lands the leads roles, the songs, as they say, are the stars so expect Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want... but don’t sing along, I know, it’s difficult, but try to restrain yourself until the medley at the end. There’s always a medley at the end, isn’t there? So, round-up your T-Birds, pick up your Pink Ladies and re-discover why Grease really is the one that you want... after all, you wouldn’t want to be left stranded at the drive-in.

Running time 2 hours 20 minutes including interval. Tickets £28.50-£89 https://www. atgtickets.com/shows/grease/edinburghplayhouse/

Right now, Pet Shop Boys Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe are undergoing a bit of a renaissance with their new album, Nonetheless, charting at No 2, their Greatest Hits world tour, Dreamland, still going strong and now the return of their West End musical, Closer To Heaven (until 30 June) is upon us. It’s a brand new production by Turbine Theatre, starring Frances Ruffelle, and it’s my ‘Theatre Break Hot Ticket’ for June, but it’s selling fast so get in quick.

Narrated by iconic, retired rock legend and actress, Billie Trix, Closer to Heaven is the story of Dave, just arrived in London from Ireland and looking for a job… which is how he comes to find himself behind the bar of successful gay nightclub, Vic’s Club, where he dreams of being a singer while quickly falling in love with the eponymous owner’s estranged daughter, Shell.

However, the path of love is never easy and when Dave meets drug dealer Mile End Lee in the club, his life can never be the same again.

The new production boasts an impressive cast led by Tony Award winning Frances Ruffelle as Billie Trix, who already has two iconic musical theatre roles to her credit –Ruffelle originated the roles of Eponine in Les Misérables and Dinah in Starlight Express.

Also in the cast as Dave is Glenn Adamson, last seen in Edinburgh as Strat at The Playhouse in Bat Out Of Hell.

With a book by one of Britain’s most celebrated writers, Jonathan Harvey, and the iconic sounds of Pet Shops Boys, Closer To Heaven will see the Turbine Theatre transformed into Vic’s Club and seating for this immersive production will be allocated on arrival. Doors will be open one hour before each performance where you will be assigned a seat. An exciting concept.

Running time TBC. Tickets £42.50 and more details at https://mustseetheatre.com/news-petshop-boys-closer-to-heaven-ready-to-chargethe-imagination-at-londons-battersea-powerstation-everything-you-need-to-know/

That’s me for another month, as always I’d love it if you could check mustseetheatre.com for all the top news, views and reviews from Edinburgh, London and beyond and just a reminder that you can access all my Edinburgh reviews online on the Edinburgh Reporter website.  Until next time, happy theatre-going, Líam

Edinburgh’s Kieran Lynch (second left) as Doody in Grease

Frances Ruffelle as Billie Trix in Pet Shop Boys’ Close To Heaven

THE VOICE OF SPORT

Jacob takes to the circuit

SCOTLAND’S SENIOR TENNIS PLAYER of the year, Jacob Fearnley, from Dalkeith, will look to British No 1 Cameron Norrie for inspiration as he prepares to leave his American university for the grass court circuit.

The links between Fearnley, 22, and Norrie extend beyond Scotland – the latter has a father from Glasgow – as both attended Texas Christian University in Forth Worth (TCU).

A difference is that Jacob completed his degree (in kineology) whereas Norrie dropped out towards the end of his course as the lure of turning professional was too strong, albeit he finished top ranked American student player three times during his stint.

Jacob’s US experience could not have finished any better as he became the first Scot to win the Inter College First Division with University of Texas being beaten in the final. Earlier in the season he won nine of his first ten singles, something he credits with bolstering his ability to win Challenger singles and doubles titles in Edgbaston and Luxembourg.

He now ranks just outside the world top 500 but momentum is on his side and 2024 could be a big breakthrough year especially as his final victim at Edgbaston was Kyle Edmund, former Australian Open semi-finalist.

Jacob told the Edinburgh Reporter: “There are a lot of good players who have come through TCU and the one that springs to mind is Cam Norrie who has reached the top 10 in the world which is really special.”

Norrie was a Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2022 but lost out to Novak Djokovic.

Jacob added: “Seeing what Cam is doing on the pro tour gives myself and all the college guys

New strip for Scotland

WHEN THE SCOTLAND cricket team begin their bid for the ICC men’s T20 world cup in the West Indies early next month as well as a bold new strip they will have the backing of Nandini, part of the Karnataka Milk Federation.

The new attire, which contains the sponsor’s logo will be worn as Scotland begin their Group B campaign against England on 4 June in Barbados.

The national team will then face Namibia at the same venue two days later. They then head to Antigua to play Oman on 9 June, before a final group fixture with Australia in St Lucia on 15 June.

a lot of motivation and confidence that the college route is a good one which produces top class players who can compete with the best in the world.”

Asked recently by Tennis Scotland what he was most looking forward to post-college, Jacob said:“The outlook after college is to be full-time on tour, I’m excited to play for myself and play pro tournaments. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do since I was a little kid so very excited for that and looking forward to what’s ahead for me.

“It has to be the grass court season, if I can get any opportunities on there that’s what I’m most looking forward to and would be ready to jump at anything that comes my way so that’s plan A.

“I’m just excited to be back and playing and to put in a good summer of tennis, play more Futures, the British (ATP)

Challengers and obviously if I get another opportunity at Wimbledon that would be incredible. Hopefully I can build on what happened there last year, those were some of the most fun weeks of my life.”

The Wimbledon reference concerned a doubles sortie in SW19 last year with fellow Merchiston Castle tennis academy alumni, Johannus Monday.

Making the most of a wild card given on the strength of winning a Nottingham Challenger event they came through the first round before extending the current world No 1 pair Rohan Bopanna and Matthew Ebden to 5-7, and 3-6.

So, Jacob could be at the gateway to exciting times and whatever happens on the pro circuit he will also maintain links with Scottish tennis, returning from the States to represent East of Scotland in the 2022 British inter-county championships albeit injury ruled him out last year.

Born in Worcester, Jacob was brought up in Dalkeith where his mum and grand-dad were both keen players.

He said “I started playing tennis aged about four. My grandad loved tennis and helped me and I have memories of playing with him and my mum in his backyard and on the courts at Dalkeith.”

The “Greatest Schoeman” in training mode

SCOTLAND AND EDINBURGh rugby star Pierre Schoeman was at the heart of a special training day for young players and organised by Scottish Building Society. Scottish Building Society, who are a main club partner for Edinburgh Rugby, invited youth teams to apply for a training session at Hive Stadium, Murrayfield.

The lucky recipients were Boroughmuir Banshees and Howe of Fife girls as well as Falkirk boys under-15’s and a combined Huntly and Moray boys outfit.

Assisting Schoeman were Edinburgh colleagues Harri Morris and Glen Young as well as Sarah Denholm from the women’s team.

Schoeman said: “It was an incredible day out and it was great to see all the teams come along to Hive and give their all in the training sessions.

“There are a few players who I will need to keep my eye on in the coming years. This might be the first of many games they play here at Edinburgh!”

Lothian football rivals both win in Blackpool

THE TWO TEAMS HAD COME too far to be separated by the lottery that can be a penalty shoot out.

Especially as Musselburgh Windsor and North Merchiston under-13 footballers had travelled all the way to Blackpool to compete in the prestigious Fleetwood May Cup.

Both were undefeated and even their head-to-head ended in a nil all draw.

So, coaches Pat McCluskey and Iain Ring-Macleod decided that the best outcome for the teams was to share the trophy.

All players, parents and organisers were informed of the

decision accordingly.

Iain said: “Both teams have had a good season in Division Two of the Edinburgh and Lothian Leagues, challenging for top three spots.

“The boys are aged 12 – 13 and it was their first time away. The experience and development were far more important than winner takes all. “

Pat added: “In the days where grassroots football gets some bad press I believe we showed that good relationships between clubs and players still exist.”

The coaches also praised the organisers in Blackpool for a well run competition.

Coach Pierre

National award for young runner

FRAME RUNNER, Ian Duncan, has won a national award recognising his contribution to sport and desire to help others.

The Corstorphine Athletic Club member, 13, who lives with cerebral palsy that affects his mobility, co-ordination and balance, was named the Rotary GB & Ireland Young Citizen Sporting Hero 2024.

Ian and fellow competitor Finlay Menzies were the first two athletes in CAAC’s frame running group when it launched in January 2023, having previously had to travel to East Lothian twice every week for sessions.

The group has now trebled in size with training taking place at the Saughton track alongside the club’s able-bodied competitors.

Ian has previously taken part in a medical study at Queen Margaret University looking at the impact of frame running on the health and wellbeing of individuals with walking difficulties.

He also completed a challenge to climb 8,810 steps – the equivalent of scaling Ben Nevis – to raise £1,755 for youngsters to utilise Muirfield Riding Therapy.

And he has won gold medals for Scotland at the World Abilitysport International Cup over 60m, 100m, 200m and 400m, as well as championing frame running and encouraging others to take part in the sport.

Sports-daft Ian, who recently joined wheelchair rugby league club Edinburgh Giants, said: “Frame running gives me stability and it means I don’t need to worry about my

balance. I get the feeling of freedom and competition as well as speed. It makes you feel like everyone else.

“I live in Edinburgh and we were travelling to East Lothian (for frame running). But for people who couldn’t travel to East Lothian, we wanted to make the sport accessible to them and Corstorphine Athletics Club took it on. There were two of us who started it and it’s just grown from there.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to the Rotary Club for all their help and support –and helping to buy a frame as they are quite costly. Without their help, we wouldn’t have been able to get the club off the ground.”

Along with his award, Ian was given £250 to donate to charity. He chose Kindred, an advocacy group helping families of children with complex needs navigate services and support. It has already inspired one four year old to try frame running.

Back to back titles for City

EDINBURGH CITY

FOOTBALLERS celebrate after adding the Inspiresport under-16 Scottish Cup to the under-15 trophy gained last year - a rare achievement.

The Capital youngsters travelled to the Excelsior Stadium, Airdrie, where they were made to work hard by opponents, Hampden FC and extra time was required to separate the sides.

Eventually City prevailed with goals by Arran Matheson and Matthew Murray-Smith before Hampden notched a consolation deep into the added on period.

Falcons off to a flier

EDINBURGH FALCONS got their quest for the revamped Scottish cycle speedway Division Two title off to the best possible start with back-to-back victories.

Firstly, Falcons defeated Fife Revolutions 52 - 48 then followed up by taking a last heat decider victory against Glasgow Cyclones, 51 - 48.  Falcons were led by and inspired by Sam Stansfield whose father, John, the team’s coach, sadly passed away recently. Sam was the Falcons top scorer in both matches, registering 15 points on each occasion.

Porty celebrating 100 years of rugby

PORTOBELLO RUGBY CLUB have four consecutive days of celebration lined up for later this month to bring down the curtain on their centenary season.

Festivities kick off on Thursday, 13 June when the club’s oldest ex player, Norrie Wilson, will cut a commemorative ribbon at the Cavalry Park clubhouse while the weekly summer “Tartan Touch” event continues outside.

There will be a golf outing the following day arranged and Portobello Town Hall has been hired for the Saturday night when members and friends – about 275 have so far signed up - are asked to turn up in club colours (blue and gold) for an event with a live band.

On Sunday there is a family day organised with an awards ceremony for the junior section.

Former captain Alan Freeman is returning from Canada for the centenary along with ex-players Mike Gorman and Jamie Mistry while others are travelling from the south of England, according to committee member, Darren Crowther.

The season just ended has season Portobello preserve their place in

Scottish Rugby’s East First Division and they will be hoping it is a springboard to emulate spectacular feats in the late 1970’s-‘80’s when they came within a single last day victory over Edinburgh Accies to journey all the way through to the top tier in successive seasons.

Part of that success was due to a raft of players provided by an outstanding school team under the charge of Art teacher Alastair Cuthbertson which included a string of Scotland Schools internationalists.

Along the way Portobello became a formidable force in seven-a-side rugby winning multiple tournaments while another red letter day in the club’s history was appearing at Murrayfield in the 2008 National Plate Final.

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Stephen Dobson.

Edinburgh City

Candidate for manager?

Hibs now need a safe pair of hands

By CALLUM NAPIER

AS HIBS search for their fourth manager in as many years, has the man they are looking for been under their nose the entire time?

Following the recent sacking of Nick Montgomery, club legend David Gray took interim charge of the team for the fourth time.

Gray has been a part of the coaching staff since retiring in 2021, since then he has temporarily taken the reins following the sackings of Ross, Maloney, Johnson and now Montgomery.

Each time has shown steady improvement, some highlights include the brief moment Hibs led the 2021 League Cup final against Celtic, and this season’s trip to Aberdeen, one of the better performances in what was an otherwise poor league campaign.

That game felt like light years ago during the recent 4-0 loss at home to the same opposition though, a result which ultimately cost Montgomery his job.

So, Gray stepped in again, and his first task was to galvanise a squad that looked short of confident for the mid-week visit of Motherwell, which was more than just a regular bottom-six clash.

It was the final home game for Lewis Stevenson and Paul Hanlon, where a defeat would have left a bitterly disappointing taste in the mouths of both them and the fans.

Hibs ran out 3-0 winners, Gray said: “The message tonight was about the reaction from the weekend and the motivation was purely to give the lads the send-off they deserve.”

The players look comfortable playing in a less

to put the work in for such a respected figure. Following the match, Stevenson said: “Dave knows this league really well, he’s played in it and managed in it a few times, he’s got a decent record as manager.

All of the managers he has worked underneath he was probably learned things from each and every one of them…I do think at some stage he’s going to be a great manager.”

Hibs’ previous two managerial appointments have had no Scottish football experience, looking at the teams who finished inside the top-six this season (out with the Old Firm) it would appear such experience is a necessity in

Hibs do not need a flashy, inexperienced manager from overseas. All that is required is a safe pair of hands, who understands the Scottish game and knows the club inside out. Appointing Gray would also guarantee that the fan base - who are becoming increasingly fractured due to events in the recent weeks - would galvanise and support their cup winning hero as head coach.

He was the first signings of the Alan Stubbs’ rebuild following relegation to the Championship, which ultimately led to the famous Scottish Cup win.

So, perhaps he is the man to take control now, and lead the turnaround required to take the club back up the league table.

In the swing of it

By STAFF REPORTER

EDINBURGH LEISURE is launching a new short-term golf pass allowing visitors to the city and residents to experience their six world-class courses without the need to take out an annual membership.

As the city’s largest sports and leisure provider in the city, Edinburgh Leisure has six courses to choose from each offering unique challenges and stunning city views and a truly Scottish golfing experience to locals and visitors alike. With views of Arthur’s Seat, the Firth of Forth or atop the iconic Braid Hills.  they even have First Tees just minutes from the city centre or within walking distance of a tram stop.

A 3-day weekend pass costing £35 or 7-day golf pass costing £75 allows access to all of Edinburgh Leisure’s six golf courses at Braid Hills, Carrick Knowe, Craigentinny, Portobello, Wee Braids and Silverknowes golf courses.

The new Golf Pass is available to buy at any Edinburgh Leisure golf club and online. https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/ activities/golf

Joelle retiring from Hibs

By SPORTS REPORTER

THE HIBS WOMEN’S CAPTAIN has announced she will retire at the end of this season.

Joelle Murray is now 37-years-old and has played for the team for more than two decades. She is the Women’s Team record appearance holder and has appeared 505 times to date.

The most decorated player in Hibs Women history, Joelle has played her part in two title triumphs, alongside lifting the Scottish Cup seven times and the League Cup five times.

Murray was the first Hibs Women’s player to sign a professional contract

back in 2020 and has continually strived to drive and push forward the women’s game in Scotland both on and off the pitch.

From making her debut against Arsenal to leading the team out at Easter Road against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Joelle has been an iconic figure for women’s football at the Club.

Her name is firmly written in the history books of her beloved club, Hibernian FC, and will play a key role for Hibernian FC going forward, continuing her fantastic work with the Football Club off the pitch, and working as part of Grant Scott’s backroom team going forward. Hibernian Women’s Manager

Grant Scott paid tribute to Murray, saying: “Joelle is – without question – an icon of the game. Although her professional career on the pitch is now coming to an end, her legacy will be felt for so many years to come. She’s paved the way for so many to thrive in the future.

“Joelle has lived and breathed football for such a long time, and she leaves it in the strongest place it has ever been – a true testament to her leadership, professionalism, talent, and dedication.

“I feel incredibly privileged to have been able to work with her on two occasions now and know her name will be written into the history books as a true footballing great.”

Ian Jacobs

Hibernian FC

Play a round in Edinburgh

Joelle Murray

Frankie goes to Tynecastle

Defender is now glad to be in Edinburgh

By NIGEL DUNCAN

FRANKIE KENT was plucked from Peterborough United and arrived as a virtual unknown to the vast majority of Hearts fans, but now he is an established and popular member of the squad.

What’s more, the Romford-born defender loves being at Tynecastle and enjoys living in Scotland’s Capital.

The 6ft 2in centre back, who was once a member of the Arsenal Academy, also appreciates the status of the Heart of Midlothian FC in Scottish football.

Now, Kent’s horizons are focused further than Scotland as the possibility of playing in Europe for the Jambos was one of the driving forces in the 28-year-old putting pen to paper for Hearts, something that he was unlikely to experience South of the Border unless he was transferred to one of the major clubs.

Hearts have been confirmed in third place in the cinch Premiership and Kent will now have the opportunity to play in European games.

He said: “Group stage football in Europe is something to look forward to and get excited about. I’ve loved playing in Scottish football. I can’t believe how quickly (the season) has gone, but I’ve loved being up here.

“It’s something completely new and I am enjoying the football, the different stadiums and the fans. Thankfully, it has gone well for us as a team and that helps a lot.”

Kent added: “In all fairness, I don’t really know what I expected (from Scottish football). Obviously, I had spoken to people and knew the league a little bit through watching a few games on the telly, but I just took it as it comes.

“I did not think too much into it and just got on with it and got on with the football and, thankfully, I have played the amount of games that I have done and stayed fit.”

Edinburgh woman picked for Scotland team

By NIGEL DUNCAN

BUFFY MCAVOY has been named in the Scotland ladies team for the Shore Home International in July.

The Edinburgh-based angler suffered heartbreak 12 months ago after the gold medal was snatched from Scotland’s grasp in Wales.

Scotland led the two-day event until the last five minutes when an Irish competitor hooked into a fish to demote Scotland to second position.

However, Scotland have won back-to-back silver medals in the event but Aberdeen-born Buffy believes that Scotland can gain gold when the event comes north of the Border this summer.

She is in the five-strong squad which also includes Gill Coutts from Largs, Charlene Stoker (Dumfries), Lesley Maby Penrith, Cumbria) and Australianborn Joanne Barlow, the former captain of Scotland’s ladies carp team, who lives in Brighton.

Tayside-based Kevin Lewis is the team manager for the event near Montrose.

Locally, Glencorse Reservoir boss Bill Taylor has started afternoon/evening sessions on the water near Penicuilk and they are on

Buffy McAvoy

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. You must book.

Allandale Tarn near West Calder are now open from 9am to 9pm every day except Monday and Tuesday.

For the record, Kent played 149 games for Peterborough after 127 appearances for Colchester United after making his professional debut for the U’s in May 2014.

He admitted: “Coming up here and seeing the size of the club and the impact it has on the fans and the people around the club, the city, it is a big thing and it was a big thing for me to get used to from the clubs I have come from.

“There was also a big difference in the stature of the clubs I have come from and it (being here) has been good.”

Kent admitted that as a youngster he did not

take too much notice of the stature of Arsenal when he was with the Academy and he added: “As a kid I did not realise the level of where I was.

“It was just normal for me as I started so young. It was only after I left there that you start to realise the size of it and the standard of where I was.

“Coming up here and seeing the size of the club and the impact it has and the affect on the fans is something to tap into as players and as a team.

“Moving here is something I am well happy that I did and I am excited for next year.”

Frankie Kent

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