The Edinburgh Reporter March 2020

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March 2020

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All hands on deck!

Ruth-less bid for Edinburgh Central

Esther McIntosh and Alex Green get on board Black Kinnaird with Edinburgh Tool Library volunteers PHOTO Martin P McAdam The Black Kinnaird is a much loved pirate ship in the playground at Castleview Primary School.

Sadly it was damaged by fire but volunteers from Edinburgh Tool Library (the Tooligans) have sailed to the rescue and hope that in the coming weeks she will be boarded again by young Greendykes pirates.

With donations of wood from

Move On Wood Recycling in Granton and sleepers for the base contributed by St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies, all they have to do is provide the expertise.

While they arrr! pretty good at the timber side of things they could do with supporters who might help with the detailing.

Castleview Primary Headteacher, Clare Langley, said: "The Edinburgh

Tool Library have been amazing and we can't thank them enough.

Sadly our Pirate Ship was badly damaged by fire vandalism last year. The Edinburgh Tool Library heard about our situation and contacted us to see if there was anything they could do to help.

Our pupils prepared a movie to show how they had played with the boat and what they would like

to happen. The Tool Library have listened and used their creative skills to save what they can and rebuild the ship. They have come to school at weekends to work on the ship. Our pupils can't wait to see and play on the finished article. Thank you Edinburgh Tool Library."The UK’s first tool library is a charity established in 2014 which promotes sharing as a

Future Edinburgh Give us your views on how our city develops

Choices for City Plan 2030 City Mobility Plan

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/FutureEdinburgh

The race to replace Ruth Davidson as MSP in the city centre is hotting up. Joanna Cherry, QC, MP, for Edinburgh South West announced that she will seek the SNP candidacy for Edinburgh Central in the 2021 Scottish Parliamentary elections.

Former SNP depute leader Angus Robertson also announced his candidacy, saying that Edinburgh needs a new balance for its residents between over-tourism and climate crisis. He said : “The part-time commitment of Tory MSP Ruth Davidson shows there is a real need for a full-time replacement. All recent election results in Edinburgh Central have shown it will take a committed candidate to win, which is why I am running for the SNP nomination.” Current MSP and former Tory Leader, Ruth Davidson, announced in August that she will not seek reelection in the constituency which she gained at the last Scottish Parliamentary election with just over 600 votes.

She has since been tipped as one of the next members of the House of Lords. Read more on page 5. way of reducing environmental impact. They lend tools and teach borrowers how to use them, are supported by many volunteers and have around 1000 tools to lend.

See them at the Leith Walk Police Box on Saturdays.

The original pirate ship was donated by Fort Kinnaird shopping centre. edinburghtoollibrary.org.uk

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ABOUT US This month’s paper is full of the stories we have found for you all about Edinburgh - if you have a story then get in touch.

We are particularly interested in people who are doing good things here in Edinburgh and sometimes have to rely on you to tell us about them.

We write other stories such as those centred on the council and parliament ourselves, but this month we are without the services of a Local Democracy Reporter (a scheme which places a journalist with a media partner but whose salary is met by the BBC).

Have a look at our multimedia content on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as well as our podcasts on Anchor.FM and videos on YouTube and Vimeo.

And we invite your comments!

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Letter to the Editor Charity run Sir, Across Scotland there are thousands of people currently living without a home – whether that’s in hostels or B&Bs, sofa-surfing with friends and family or living on our streets.

That’s not something we, as a society, should accept as the norm.

Homelessness is not inevitable - and we can all do our part to end homelessness for good.

At Crisis Scotland we provide direct support to people affected by homelessness, we campaign, and we fundraise so that we will one day be part of the change that helped end homelessness for good across Great Britain.

But to do that, we need your help.

In March, we will host the first ever Race to End Homelessness, a 5km or 10km walk or run around

Edinburgh city centre to raise vital funds to help lift people out of homelessness through one-to-one support, in areas such as housing and employment.

Those that take part will take on the scenic route around the city, starting in Holyrood Park, heading around the foot of Arthur’s Seat, before climbing up Calton Hill and then heading back in to the city and ending at The Glasshouse, the prestigious hotel which has partnered with us for this event.

It’s just £20 to register, with a fundraising target of £50. Whether you’re a keen walker or runner, or if you simply fancy taking on a new challenge, why not sign up and help Crisis in its mission to end homelessness.

Yours sincerely,

Grant Campbell Director of Crisis Scotland www.crisis.org.uk

Spring by-election A city council by-election will be called in the Craigmillar/ Duddingston ward - probably in May. Ian Campbell (SNP) was elected in 2017 but has announced his resignation for health reasons.

He explained the position to a meeting of full council.

He said: “I have suffered from ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for seven years and due to the increasing work load I took on to serve you and the city, my symptoms have gone from manageable to chronic.

"Many of you will be aware that I took time out to try and recover, but I have been unable to recover to a degree where I am able to serve the people of Craigentinny/ Duddingston in the way that I would like to see you served.

“I am grateful to the Council team, staff and Councillors, including those from cross parties who have given me support and helped my constituents.

I had the privilege of serving as the Council’s Health Board Representative and Vice-Convenor of Culture and Communities during my time in office. I have found

these roles incredibly interesting and I hope I’ve managed to make an impact in my time serving in these roles.

"The Council is leading on a bold and ambitious future for our capital city and I’m obviously disappointed not be playing a continuing role in delivering that vision of a more sustainable, inclusive capital city of a future independent Scotland.”

The other councillors who represent this Ward are Depute Lord Provost Joan Griffiths, MBE, (Labour), Cllr John McLellan (Cons) and Cllr Alex Staniforth (Green).

Cllr Staniforth said: “He is a decent man who always wanted the best for the community.”

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News in brief Quaich Businessman Norman Springford who donated the initial £5 million to start off The Quaich Project has decided to step back from his role as Chair. He told The Scotsman, who have reported on concerns about the way the development plans have been handled, that he will no longer be chair of the body.

The Quaich Project works in partnership with the council to develop West Princes Street Gardens, and has been seeking funding to pay for it. Mr Springford has also resigned from the board of The Ross Development Trust which he helped to create. He said that his involvement in the project was repeatedly questioned and his departure might allow it the best chance of being realised.

Harmeny A Scottish business leader has donated £250,000 to help fund major improvements to educational facilities at Harmeny Education Trust which supports some of Scotland’s most vulnerable children.

The donor, who does not want their identity revealed, gifted the money to meet the cost of building a new Learning Hub at the Balerno based charity after hearing of its inspirational work.

The gift means the charity has now raised £950,000 - half of the £1.9 million needed for its Learning for Life Appeal.

Period Poverty The latest initiative to tackle period poverty in the Capital will mean that free sanitary products are available in City of Edinburgh Council buildings including community centres, libraries and early years centres.

The Council has teamed up with Scottish period poverty campaign group Hey Girls to provide both individual and packed environmentally-friendly products in a phased roll out from the end of February.

The initiative is funded by the Scottish Government and aims to support equal access to essential items for all those who have, or live with those who have, periods.

As well as providing the period products, staff in community Grassmarket Community Project 86 Candlemaker Row EH1 2QA Henderson's 94 Hanover St EH2 1DB and Holyrood Rd The Hideout Cafe 40-42 Queen Charlotte St EH6 6AT Leith Walk Police Box Pop Up Croall Pl EH7 4LT Maialino 34 William St EH3 7LJ Milk & Honey 78 Queen Street EH2 4NF Ocean Terminal

We write about news relating to Edinburgh and the immediate area.

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centres and libraries are attending Hey Girls training to support education about periods and break down the stigma and taboo surrounding menstruation.

Domestic Abuse Scotland’s Chief Statistician released domestic abuse figures for 2018-19 finding that these have remained much the same since 2011-12 with around 58,000 to 61,000 incidents a year. Last year there was a small increase in the number of incidents by 2%.

The number of recorded incidents is higher on a Saturday or Sunday than any other day of the week.

Keep Scotland Beautiful Awards If you are a community group you can enter the It’s Your Neighbourhood category in the Keep Scotland Beautiful Awards.

The programme provides an opportunity to access support, encouragement, and national recognition for the hard work carried out by local groups throughout the year and link in with other communities across Scotland. This year’s theme is tied in with the Year of Coasts and Waters and marks Keep Scotland Beautiful’s 20th birthday.

Enter by 30 April 2020. www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org Forth Bridge Abseil Why not face up to the challenge on 14 June and experience the thrilling rush of abseiling 165ft from the iconic Forth Bridge?

You could help Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland to provide the vital care people need to rebuild their lives. There are over 72,760 people in Lothian living with chest, heart and stroke conditions. www.abseil.scot Donald Dewar Debating Tournament Two Royal High School pupils, Emma Shopland and Laura Young, are in the semi-finals of the Law Society's annual debating tournament. In the last round 32 school teams debated "This House would privatise the BBC", something which may yet come to pass.

Scottish Arts Club

24 Rutland Sq EH1 2BW St Bride’s Community Centre 10 Orwell Terrace EH11 2DZ Strumpets 35 William Street EH3 7LW Summerhall 1Summerhall EH9 1PL The Queen's Hall Box Office

Clerk St EH8 9JG The Royal Scots Club 29-31 Abercromby Pl EH3 6QE

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Colourful Colinton If you haven’t already been, then do go and visit the Colinton Tunnel. It is by the Water of Leith and has been transformed by the work of artist Chris Rutterford.

This is the largest historical mural in Scotland celebrating the local community, its industry and literary history.

Chris said: "We started about April last year. It's been a long process, because it was very dilapidated.

The council fitted new lights and we were here as soon as that was

done. There's been a huge amount of masonry painting, getting the tunnel fit to paint in the first place.

We are probably halfway there now."

There is a real connection between Robert Louis Stevenson and the Colinton area. It was here that Stevenson’s grandfather was minister at the local church and Chris told us that Stevenson himself as a small boy must have travelled on a train passing through the tunnel. The text

edinburghreporter along the walls is taken from Stevenson's poem From A Railway Carriage.

Recite it out loud and it feels like a train is on the tracks! The brightly lit walkway begins with the colourful train at the entrance and is followed by the figures still taking shape inside.

Money has already been spent on the developing artwork, but there is still a need for donations to keep the project on track. If you can help then do so online.

Donate at colintontunnel.org

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Sign writer Duncan Peace gets to work

Tunnel of light at Colinton All photos Martin P McAdam Verse from Robert Louis Stevenson's From a Railway Carriage

Happy visitors meeting artist Chris Rutterford

Guiding lights in Drylaw A new girl guiding unit in Edinburgh invites more girls to join them on a journey of fun, friendship and adventure.

The 170th City of Edinburgh Guide and Ranger Unit based in the Drylaw area offers girls age 11-18 a space to be themselves and take part in new experiences.

New members can look forward to an exciting and varied programme of activities, events and trips where they will make lifelong friends and a space to have fun.

The group have an action-packed programme of activities planned including a trip to trampoline park, Gravity, the Scottish Parliament and a camping adventure. Other fun activities included hosting a movie night, a baking session and taking part in the Recycle Reuse challenge, making creatures from the sea with plastic items brought to the unit. The group have also

been planning their programme for the year ahead, enabling the girls to have their voice heard about issues that matter to them.

The 170th City of Edinburgh Guide and Ranger Unit meet on Tuesday evening in the Drylaw area. The group is funded by the CashBack for Communities Programme which has funded nearly two million activities and opportunities for young people.

There are estimated to be 10 million girls and women in Guiding worldwide, with 1,423 guides in the Edinburgh area.

If your daughter would like to join Guides please visit the Guiding UK website and register your interest.

If your daughter is already a member of Guides and would like to register for a Ranger unit, please talk to her unit leader. www.girlguiding-edinburgh.org.uk

Colinton's industrial history features in the tunnel

Tunnel champion Chris Rutterford

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Triple whammy as council tax set to rise for the next three years Council tax bills will land on doormats by the middle of March.

The demands will be 4.79% more than last year and households should expect rises next year and in 2022.

The Edinburgh Reporter spoke to Finance Convener, Cllr Alasdair Rankin, about the reasons for the increase.

He said: "Of the £88 million that we need to save over that period, some £51 million will come out of corporate budget. That means it will not affect service levels.

And we've done that deliberately because service delivery is what we want to protect as far as we possibly can, within the resources that are available to us.

"Our budget isn't necessarily the final word. We have the very unusual situation of setting the budget ahead of the Scottish Government and ahead of the Westminster government.

Now, it may be that as the SNP

is a minority in the Scottish Parliament, that they come to an agreement with another party in order to get the budget passed.

That may release extra money, which comes the way of local government. I know there's been a lot of lobbying in The Scottish Parliament for that to happen."

Cllr Rankin said the UK Government's pledge for massive investment in infrastructure may have a ripple down effect for Scotland.

He added: "We know very well that the UK Government has promised a lot in terms of capital spending and spending on infrastructure. We would expect to get Barnett consequentials coming through to us on that score. And it may be, if the UK Government loosens its fiscal rules, that more money will be available in revenue budget as well."

The increase in council tax ia an

effort to close the gap between what the council receives in income and what they need to spend in their revenue budget.

The rise from 3% to 4.79% means that at the median level - Band D - residents will pay an extra 44 pence per week.

Glasgow City Council settled on a rise of 4.64% while Scotland's other 30 local authoriites are in the process of setting budgets.

The new council tax bands for 2020/21 will come into effect on 1 April 2020 : A - £892.39 B - £1,041.13 C - £1,189.86 D - £1,338.59 E – £1,758.76 F - £2,175.21 G – £2,621.41 H - £3,279.55

St Mary’s tune up for open day St Mary’s Music School in Grosvenor Crescent is hosting an Open Day on Saturday, 7 March.

Young instrumentalists and their parents are welcome to find out more about life as a

boarder or day pupil at Scotland’s specialist music school. This is an opportunity to meet pupils and staff, learn about the music and academic curriculum, and hear about the funded places available

Lapland and lap dogs Members of the Currie Balerno Rotary Club heard from two charities which provide real help and support for hospital patients.

John Macaulay and Jim Pryde spoke about FACE (Fight against Cancer Edinburgh) which was established in 1990 and is based at the Western General Hospital.

It is run entirely by volunteers

supporting cancer patients and their families with those little things that make a difference.

They also support oncology clinics in the Borders and Fife.

John and Jim told the club about the annual children’s trip to Lapland to see Santa, which is financed entirely by public donations. FACE organises

Jim and John with Club President Lindsay Craig

through the Scottish Government’s Aided Places Scheme.

Headteacher Dr Kenneth Taylor said: “Our pupils are in the fortunate position of being able to work with world-renowned fundraising events throughout the year. The Rotary Club made a contribution from its funds.

Barry Williamson, accompanied by his dog Willow,talked to the club members about the role of Therapets. Volunteers from the organisation take their dogs with them to visit hospital patients, providing a truly therapeutic service and raising spirits.

Barry explained that anyone

Barry and Willow

Child poverty worsens in Edinburgh Edinburgh Trade Union Council (ETUC) represents trade union branches in the City of Edinburgh and has been in operation since 1853.

Now they have produced a report, Dealing With Child Poverty in Edinburgh Schools. This is an excerpt which lays bare the conditions faced by some families: “Schools are dealing with many aspects of poverty. Because of the parents' lack of money of schools have set up Food Banks (with food provided by teachers and local shops and supermarkets).

They have set up Clothes Banks, and Breakfast Clubs which either have a nominal charge or are free. One school provided 70 breakfasts every day, financed by local businesses. Breakfast Clubs seem essential in dealing with poverty (and childminding issues due to the nature of modern work) but are not funded by The City of Edinburgh Council. Schools are

musicians on a frequent basis and it is an important function of the school to extend this opportunity to other young musicians and their teachers, with no cost attached.”

Visitors will discover the outstanding quality of the teaching and the breadth of opportunities. can volunteer so long as they can make regular visits - and so long as their dogs are well behaved! He did add that cats are also welcome but very few had been willing to accept the discipline required.

Therapets is managed by the Canine Concern Scotland Trust who have an office in Portland Street, Edinburgh. www.canineconcernscotland. org.uk

struggling to include all pupils in outings, including residential trips both in Scotland and abroad.

Schools sometimes have to assist children and their parent(s) in obtaining basic furniture such as beds. Schools have helped when they found out that children did not have beds (they slept in cupboards). Some pupils are suffering from sleep deprivation.

Some teachers bring food into their classes because children are not attentive due to not having eaten, possibly because they have been too late for the Breakfast Club.

"Teachers say that some disciplinary issues are simply due to hunger.”

ETUC Secretary, Des Loughney, said: " Child poverty is a serious issue for Edinburgh schools and will get worse in the future unless the City Council and the Scottish Government allocate more resources to schools."

Water issues run deep For Rotary, March is “Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month”.

The provision of clean water, sanitation and hygiene is one of Rotary’s six focus areas to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever.

Sometimes the need is acute and urgent, for instance when a community has been devastated by a natural disaster. In such cases, organisations such as Aquabox (https://www.aquabox. org), set up by Rotarians nearly 30 years ago, can help virtually immediately by providing water filters, ensuring that clean and safe drinking water is available, as well as other humanitarian aid.

In other places or at other times the need is a long-term one. It is well established that when people have access to clean water and sanitation, waterborne diseases decrease, and children stay healthier and attend school more regularly. Mothers can spend less time carrying water and more time helping their families.

Rotarians design and carry out projects to ensure the provision of clean water and access to proper toilet facilities, especially (but not exclusively) in schools. This is not a matter of building a well and walking away. Expertise is shared with local community leaders and educators, to ensure the long-term success of projects.

For more information on Rotary contact secretary@rotary1020.org

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Charity Partnership thriving

Tony Love, Andy Conway and Theo Van Asperen who have all benefitted from CHSS with Kirsty Connell (Scotmid), Ali Baker (CHSS), John Graham (Scotmid) and Bethany James (SemiChem)

Scotmid raises £130K for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

Scotmid Co-operative, Scotland’s largest independent co-operative and charity Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS), are celebrating the halfway point of their year long partnership.

A giant heart was decorated showing that £130,000 has been raised to date.

Kirsty Connell, Scotmid Membership Manager joined representatives from CHSS and three stroke survivors – Theo van Asperen, Tony Love and Andy

Sailing along together Jim and Beryl Shuttleworth have lived at Queen’s Manor retirement home since the end of October.

Jim arrived a little later than B and during that time it was clear to all at the home just how much B was missing him.

The team were delighted when Jim moved in, and even more so when it was discovered that their 70th wedding anniversary was the very next day.

The care team organised a room for a surprise private lunch, flowers and fizz where Jim awaited his beautiful date.

B entered the room not knowing about her beloved husband and the anniversary surprise. She was completely overjoyed.

Jim and B’s family, including children and grandchildren, then joined them on the weekend for a family celebration.

The couple have quickly become a cherished part of Queen’s Manor and everyone is enjoying getting to know them.

The Lifestyle Enrichment team discovered some classic and interesting finds at Cramond Kirk book sale. In particular they found two old dictionaries which they knew Jim would appreciate for his daily crosswords.

When leafing through the leather bound books, Jim came across a photo of the Queen Elizabeth which he worked on in 1948 on her maiden voyage.

This sparked lots of memories of Jim’s time working as a purser on

ships sailing The Cunard Line.

As well as the Queen Elizabeth, Jim sailed on the Media from Liverpool to New York and the Franconia to Mumbai.

Coway at the celebration.

All monies raised will help fund the charity’s rehabilitation services and new equipment, as well as helping to increase awareness of the support available. Staff across Scotmid’s 179 food stores, 87 Semichem stores, 17 He worked on the ships with a friend who was dating a school teacher on shore in Liverpool.

She was lodging with a fellow teacher and Jim soon, though ‘reluctantly’, agreed to a blind date.

Unbeknown to Jim, his future wife B ‘reluctantly’ agreed to the

theedinburghreporter.co.uk Scotmid Funeral branches and 9 Lakes & Dales stores have been involved with fundraising activities including a Forth Road Bridge abseil and other sponsored events.

Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “It is amazing that we’re only halfway through our partnership and Scotmid has already raised an incredible £130,000 to help stroke survivors across Scotland survive and thrive!

“Thanks to their fundraising efforts we’ll be able to help support more than a thousand stroke survivors and their families through our rehabilitation support services. Our services support people after a stroke to regain their confidence, achieve their personal goals and get back to doing the things they love.”

John Brodie, Chief Executive at Scotmid, said: “I am really proud of what our customers, staff and members have achieved in just six months. It is testament to how much they support our core purpose of serving our communities and helping to improve people’s everyday lives.

“I am looking forward to seeing what the next six months hold and to what else we can do to help this amazing charity support thousands of stroke survivors to ‘survive and thrive’.” date also!

Fortunately, this shared reluctance was the first of many shared moments and adventures during their lifetimes..

Here are Jim and B 70 years on, still together and happily married.

NEWS

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Scottish Parliamentary elections 2021 Continued from Page 1 Previously, this Holyrood seat was won by Marco Biagi for the SNP in 2011 and Labour’s Sarah Boyack in 1999.

Ms Cherry, who lives in the Edinburgh Central seat and has been a member of the local branch since 2008, said she spoke with fellow branch members in Edinburgh Central and members of Edinburgh South West and was strongly encouraged to seek the candidacy.

The Holyrood seat of Edinburgh Central overlaps with Ms Cherry’s current Westminster seat Edinburgh South West.

Ms Cherry says that since 2016 she and her office routinely deal with devolved constituency cases due to the indifference of Ruth Davidson and her failure to provide support and advice to her constituents.

The MP has confirmed that if she wins the nomination and election to Holyrood she would not serve a full term at Westminster and would seek to stand down as an MP to focus on Scotland, creating a Westminster by election.

Joanna Cherry said: “Edinburgh Central is my home branch, I have been a member there since 2008.

I have lived in the constituency since 2002 and since 2015 I have been the MP for Edinburgh South West which covers a significant part of the Central seat including Gorgie, Dalry, Haymarket, Fountainbridge and part of Tollcross/Bruntsfield.

“I am very grateful to all the people who have approached me and encouraged me to put my hat in the ring when nominations open. Scotland must have the right to escape Boris Johnson's Brexit. We must have the right to choose our own future and we need a strategy to get us to that point of decision. With a large Tory majority across England the UK is set firmly on a hard Tory agenda for the next decade. Scotland will be completely ignored at Westminster. The movement for Scotland to be an independent European nation can only be realised at Holyrood and I want to offer my services where I think they can be of most use."

Maddy Kirkman is Labour candidate for Edinburgh Central.

She tweeted her thoughts on the two SNP heavyweights and the prospective SNP contest : “Excuse me Joanna Cherry 2 months ago you were telling voters you’d be dedicated to them at Westminster and now you fancy being MSP for Edinburgh Central as well? We’ve had enough of absenteeism* from Ruth Davidson thanks. (*the London/Lords/PR thing not the maternity thing)."

Scottish Parliamentary Elections take place next year.

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Net carbon zero hero appointed A carbon zero czar had been appointed as part of Edinburgh's bid to achieve net carbon zero by 2030.

Dr Sam Gardner has been appointed Independent Chair of the Edinburgh Climate Commission and has begun to appoint fellow commissioners from key sectors in the city and areas of climate expertise.

He is Head of Climate Change and Sustainability at Scottish Power and previously worked for WWF Scotland for 12 years, most recently as Deputy Director. At WWF Scotland Dr Gardner led a team focused on securing lasting solutions to the environmental and climate change crises.

His work has covered the introduction of the first Climate Change Scotland in 2009 and its implementation over the last ten years. He has worked closely with stakeholder from across industry, academia and the public sector on the transition to net zero, in particular on electric vehicles, low carbon infrastructure, renewable heat and the power sector.

He said: "It’s a huge privilege to be asked to Chair the Edinburgh Climate Commission, to work with the expertise and experience of my fellow Commissioners and to play a part in ensuring Edinburgh accelerates its response to the climate crisis. The Commission will focus its work on helping

to unlock the delivery of the measures we know we must take, not only to tackle climate change but to help build a better future for all of Edinburgh. The scale of the transformation Edinburgh faces is significant but the rewards are even greater.

"To be successful we will all have a part to play and those with the greatest responsibility must show the greatest leadership. We have entered the climate decade of delivery and this will be the touchstone the Commission will hold itself to."

Cllr Adam McVey, Vice Chair of the Climate Commission and Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: "I'm delighted to welcome Dr Gardner into his new role as Chair of the independent Edinburgh Climate Commission.

He brings a wealth of relevant experience and knowledge to the post and will be a real catalyst for change by leading the Commission's work to help Edinburgh achieve our hugely ambitious net zero target."

Co-sponsored by the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation and the city council, with funding support from the Placebased Climate Action Network, the Commission will provide leadership, expertise, challenge and encouragement to the city as it works to deliver its carbon neutral ambition by 2030.

Heriot's celebrate gold

George Heriot's Head of Junior School, Alastair Morrison and Sara Gordon, Principal Teacher of Learning Enhancement, with delighted pupils.

Scottish Government winging it

Dr Sam Gardner has been appointed Independent Chair of the Edinburgh Climate Commission.

George Heriot’s School is the first school in Scotland to achieve the SAPERE Gold Award for its teaching of Philosophy.

The school began teaching philosophy in its Junior School seven years ago. The national charity Sapere said : “The significant impact of having the majority of pupils in a large school with experience of Philosophy from Nursery to Primary 7 cannot be understated.”

Sara Gordon, Principal Teacher of Learning Enhancement at George Heriot’s, said: “This is the culmination of several years of hard work and enthusiasm from pupils and staff throughout the Junior School. We are delighted to have been recognised in this way and our pupils’ enthusiasm for philosophical thinking continues to enhance all areas of their learning.”

Sapere’s spokesperson said: “George Heriot’s is an outstanding example of how Philosophy for Children (P4C) has the potential to transform a school. We were impressed by the unusually large team of well-trained and highly experienced P4C facilitators in the Learning Enhancement Department. This team has been an incredible on-site training and coaching resource and is testament to the fact that P4C is now embedded across many areas of the curriculum and ethos of the school.” www.george-heriots.com

Scottish Liberal Democrat transport spokesperson Mike Rumbles, MSP, has called The Scottish Government’s air travel record into question.

The LibDems made a Freedom of Information request and discovered that the government has taken 21,000 flights since 2015.

Core Scottish Government staff flew on 7,246 international flights and 13,674 domestic flights.

The number of international flights taken in 2019 was 73% higher than in 2015. More domestic flights were taken in 2019 than in 2015 or 2016.

Mr Rumbles said: “The volume of Scottish Government flights, both inside and outside the UK, is astounding.

“This is a government which has declared a climate emergency, but the number of flights abroad has increased massively. The travel record here is worthy of serious scrutiny."

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "There was a 23% drop in the number of domestic flights taken by core staff in 2019 compared with 2018. Business flights taken by Scottish Government ministers or employees are offset by a carbon levy."

Buzzing about on a bike made E-zy You will now be able to take the E-zy way around town with an electric bike from Just Eat Cycles.

168 electric bikes have been introduced into the system using the same app.

The cost is slightly higher - the initial hire charge is still £1.50 but there is an additional 10p per minute charge so that you can glide up The Mound at 15 mph.

As part of an introductory offer there will be no additional charge until after 16 March.

Made in Britain by Pashley, the e-bikes are similar to the existing pedal models but have a slightly different frame and a new colour

scheme. The Edinburgh Reporter tried one out just before the end of last year and it was amazingly easy to get around on.

Alex Macdonald, General Manager of Just Eat Cycles, said: “We’re proud to announce that we will launch our e-bikes on the 2nd of March - this is an exciting step.

"The thousands of people who live, work, study and visit this brilliant city can look forward to an easy to use, sustainable and affordable alternative mode of public transport. I am looking forward to seeing them being enjoyed around the city, alongside our fantastic pedal bikes.’’

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7

Showing the Love at Gorgie Farm

Bike Bus Is The Ticket

LOVE Gorgie Farm has reopened to the public following a massive effort by volunteers who gave it the TLC it was in need of after being closed for a few months.

Television presenter Gail Porter, who has fond childhood memories of the farm while growing up in Edinburgh, met the new team at the farm including CEO, Lynn Bell, and some of the volunteers who turned up one windy morning. She overcame her initial fear of getting up close and personal with the alpacas and really bonded with the latest addition to the collection of animals who now call Gorgie home.

LOVE Learning is an education and social care charity that supports vulnerable children,

Blackford Safe Routes (BSR) are pushing Edinburgh City Council for support in making safer a "bike bus" which cycles to James Gillespie's High School.

Bike buses are used to encourge children to cycle to and from school in a safe environment under the watchful eye of marshalls on bike and on foot.

A sub group of school parents organisers, BSR told councillors they would welcome the opening of any gates and barriers on the safe route and assistance longer term on widening pavements at school gates. They would like the council to promote awareness of bike buses and safe behaviour around them.

In good weather up to 100 children take part and each cyclist has a designated parent or guardian cycling with them.

BSR spokesman, Ewen Maclean said: "What we wanted to show is that all of the financial health and environmental benefits that come from active travel, they will come if you make it easy for people and plan your cities around people being able to ride this way."

Cllr Claire Miller, who supported the BSR deputation, said: "I joined the bike bus from Blackford to Sciennes Primary on a chilly winter morning, and was inspired by the fun everyone had on their journey to school. It’s a great way for the kids to get to school without the need for as many car journeys which cause congestion and dangerously unhealthy air pollution."

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young people and adults, by using innovative ways to engage them in learning. It announced it

was taking over the city farm in January after the farm went into liquidation in November 2019.

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8

The Edinburgh Reporter

POLITICS

Join the 12,000 voices

Mad at messy I've seen this MoD before . . .

by Cllr Neil Gardner We’re asking people to share their views on our Choices for City Plan 2030, which sets out options for the sustainable management of future development during a time of major change, and our draft City Mobility Plan, a ten-year strategy for creating accessible, affordable and environmentallyfriendly travel in and around Edinburgh.

Our ‘Choices’ document asks people how we should allocate land going forward, from brownfield sites or greenbelt or a mix of the two, and if Edinburgh should be a short term let control zone implemented through new planning policies.

We’re asking lots of other questions as well to help us shape future development and inform planning decisions going forward.

The two draft plans are closely linked and are being consulted on at the same time.

This will make sure any new development helps people to make healthier choices, improving quality of life through enhanced provision for walking and cycling, and better links to public transport connecting up the city for everyone to enjoy.So far we’ve had over 500 written responses - over 400 people attended events and more than 12,000 have engaged online. This is a great response but there’s still plenty of time to have your say as the deadline is 31 March. You can share comments and opinions on both by taking part in the consultations online, meeting the teams involved and you can find out more about the plans at several drop-in events being held across the city. Whatever your views, please respond before the 31 March.

by Deidre Brock MP I’ve been banging on about the mess that the MoD leaves behind itself everywhere it goes.

I raised the issue of the marine dumps where explosives, radioactive waste and chemical and biological weapons were dumped when they were surplus to requirements or seized from enemy combatants. It seem some eejit wants to think about building a bridge from Scotland to Ireland right over the top of the largest of these dumps in Beaufort’s Dyke, which seems a bad idea to me.

I’ve also jabbed Ministers about firing ranges including Cape Wrath and I’ve been told that environmental audits have been done but we can’t see them.

I’ve asked again and I’ve been promised that I’ll get a letter about it. I’m still waiting for the letter that Theresa May promised me about Cambridge Analytica visiting Downing Street, though, so I won’t hold my breath.

Tell you what, though, I’m not giving up until we all get told what the defence bods intend to do about cleaning up their messes!

Give us the environmental audits first and then give us the action plans our land and seas deserve.

by Gordon Lindhurst MSP I have a great sense of déjà vu. Another year, and yet again the SNP Government’s budget decisions are set to hit the council with millions in cuts, leaving our services facing further cutbacks, and residents facing major hikes in their council tax bills, of nearly five per cent.

Services like social care, libraries, leisure centres and roads are all going to suffer as a result of a lack of fair funding from the SNP. We have a wonderful city to be proud of but our council and others in Scotland need the cooperation and support of The Scottish Government to realise our potential for a sustainable, stable and caring society.

The SNP talk a good game when it comes to delivering for our councils, constantly talking of record funding being awarded.

The reality could not be further from the truth and it is on the frontline where these shortfalls will be truly felt. While I have some sympathies with council leaders having to decide on their budgets at this time, in Edinburgh it is high time that SNP council leader Adam McVey shouted louder to his counterparts at Holyrood and demanded a better funding deal.

Your farm needs you

by Jeremy Balfour MSP Last month I visited the city’s beloved Gorgie Farm ahead of its reopening under the name of LOVE Gorgie Farm and heard more about the new owner's plans to attract more visitors to the farm.

Following the announcement back in November that Gorgie Farm was going into administration, thousands of people across Edinburgh were heartbroken at the thought of the family attraction closing. A Crowdfunding page set up by staff raised over £100,000 and was testament to how much the people of Edinburgh cherished the farm and did not want to see it close.

The charity LOVE Learning, took over the farm and I was delighted to spend some time speaking to

CEO, Lynn Bell, who told me about some of the exciting changes set to take place. Changes such as the introduction of alpacas and a new and improved café, along with other projects which will benefit the community.

Ms Bell told me of the farm’s need for short term volunteers to help the enthusiastic team give it a new lease of life. The Farm opened earlier than expected thanks to the assistance of hundreds of volunteers and I am calling on all Gorgie Farm lovers, who were sad at the prospect of closure, to consider offering your services over the next few weeks and in the longer term. If you wish to see the farm keep going, then your farm needs you. https://www.gorgiecityfarm.org.

Expanding the vote in Scotland

Play fair with council funding

by Ben Macpherson MSP I was delighted to vote in favour of the Scottish Elections (Franchise and Representation) Bill.

This Bill demonstrates that The Scottish Government is committed to all the people who make Scotland their home and values their contribution to our community.

For the first time in the Scottish Parliament's history, a super majority was needed for it to pass.

Across Scotland, around 55,000 new voters will be able to have a say about what goes on in their country of residence. The Bill also reaffirms the existing voting rights of our EU and Commonwealth citizens. Additionally, this Bill will allow foreign national permanent residents to stand in local and Scottish Parliamentary elections.

I am very proud to represent a constituency that welcomes people from all over the world, which is why I know this Bill will have a significant impact for many of my constituents.

Ben Macpherson is the newly appointed Minister for Public Finance & Migration.

by Daniel Johnson MSP All Edinburgh residents will be aware of the unfairness of the council funding programme from the SNP administration at Holyrood.

Edinburgh is the lowest funded council in Scotland and has been seriously let down, year after year.

In our city, we have massive pressures on our public services.

We have the worst rate of bed blocking in the country, an increasing population and a social care crisis. We need fair and appropriate funding from Holyrood to deal with these problems.

It's so disheartening to see Local Authority budgets being squeezed nationally yet again, but Edinburgh always gets short shrift.

The Scottish Government gives councils less flexibility in their spend, meaning councillors have less money to play with and allocate to where it is needed, meaning less money is available for essential local services.

It is now long overdue that proper and fair funding is provided.

Funding that allows councils to spend the money where they know it is needed.

VE Day celebrations The UK Government plans to celebrate 75 years since VE Day on 9 May 2020. including a concert and veterans’ parade in Edinburgh.

On 8 May SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, will present a VE Day 75 broadcast to cinemas across the UK from The Royal Albert Hall.

The main events will be in London where there will be a fly past by The Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight over Buckingham Palace. St James’ Park will be turned into

Victory Park with a tea party for veterans and where the public can experience themed events based on the UK during wartime.

The Royal British Legion will invite WWII survivors and their descendants to spend the weekend in London. Successful applicants will be drawn from a ballot.

The Legion in Scotland are inviting applications.

At 3 o’clock Sir Winston Churchill’s victory speech will be broadcast to the nation.

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Species Champion Ash Denham Stands Up For Ash Trees Ash Denham MSP, the Scottish Parliament Species Champion for the Ash Tree, is standing up for trees by raising awareness of ash dieback disease.

The Ash Tree is one of the most common trees in Scotland and can grow to be 400 years old, but these beautiful trees are now under threat due to a disease called ash dieback which causes an Ash Tree to lose its leaves and for its crown to die back, usually resulting in the tree's death.

A loss of the species on a large scale would be devastating to the Scottish landscape and our environment, and could carry a predicted financial cost of £15bn to the UK as a whole.

However, the Woodland Trust, the largest woodland conservation charity in the United Kingdom, is one of the organisations at the forefront of the fight against ash dieback by supporting researching into resistant strains and campaigning for better biosecurity.

The Edinburgh Eastern MSP said: "I'm proud to be the Species Champion for my namesake, the Ash Tree, one of the most beautiful trees we have here in Scotland, and known in Norse mythology as the 'Tree of Life'.

"It's a great shame that these graceful trees are under threat due to ash dieback, but it means we must now work to do all we can to preserve this species by ensuring that they are managed properly and when they are removed from

our woods, roadsides, towns or cities - like in my Edinburgh Eastern constituency - that they are replaced with the right species for the right place.

"The spread of ash dieback was sped up by importing plants to Scotland which were infected with this disease and so it's really important that when we buy plants for planting we're aware of where they come from in order to prevent any future diseases, like ash dieback, from harming our plants and trees in Scotland."

The Woodland Trust's Matt Elliot added: "Woodland Trust Scotland is pleased to work with Ash

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

Denham MSP to raise awareness of this devastating disease at the Scottish Parliament level.

Caused by a fungus, the disease can result in a tree’s death, leading to the loss of many trees across Scotland and the UK. This already has a profound impact on our landscapes and on our biodiversity.

"The good news is there is new hope now in safeguarding ash populations with new genes identified which can give trees tolerance to ash dieback, but improved biosecurity measures are all the more important in the current context of climate and biodiversity emergencies."

theedinburghreporter.co.uk

POLITICS

9

We’ll Beat Racism

by Tommy Sheppard MP It was really heartening to speak at a well attended community meeting at the Hays Business Centre in Niddrie last month in response to recent racist attacks in the area, including an awful assault on two shopkeepers by a group of local young people. The community was clear that it won't stand for anyone being targeted in this way.

We can never, ever be complacent when it comes to bigotry and prejudice but the response is hugely heartening.

And likewise credit must go to the police who have moved quickly and decisively to make several arrests.

The community are clear though that just prosecuting young boys can’t and won’t be the whole answer here. Crimes must be punished. But the meeting was hugely positive with agreement that a concerted community-led effort will be made to celebrate our diversity and to address the causes of young people getting mixed up in racist violence.

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The Edinburgh Reporter

10 POLITICS

Labour councillor speaks out

No mealy-mouth rhetoric from Munro Councillor Gordon Munro is Labour councillor for Leith. He is vocal at the best of times but when it comes to local government funding he is particularly eloquent.

He was one of two of the 63 councillors who did not vote for the council budget, despite the

fact that he is part of the coalition who run the council.

He explained his reasons : “Edinburgh needs full and fair funding. The fact is that this council receives the lowest per head of population settlement of Scotland’s major cities with Edinburgh receiving £1,376 per head compared to Glasgow’s

£2,056.

“I have been critical and have been loyal to date but enough is enough. I cannot support a budget which makes cuts that will impact in every ward in the City.

You will see real cuts on our schools, leisure centres , libraries , council services . Jobs will go facilities will close .

“But worse than that we will not be able to do what needs to be done. We need to build homes , new schools ; tackle the demographics of a growing city and its growing needs and demands.

“Shelter Scotland recently criticised Edinburgh and its approach to tackle homelessness.

“The Minister criticised this Council and Westminster was blamed. Yet the Minister could help Edinburgh by increasing its funding. This Councils Strategic Housing Investment Plan pointed out that we need a 44% increase in funding from Scottish Government to achieve its targets. We need to press the case , Holyrood needs to use its powers and its vast resources to help Edinburgh rather than take the easy option of shifting the blame.”

Call for House of Lords reform Campaigners call for a halt on new Lords’ appointments Demands for the Government to release reform proposals Campaigners have renewed calls for a halt to new appointments to the House of Lords after reports revealed the latest round of peers set to take seats in the upper house.

The ERS have called for a moratorium of new Lords appointments and urged the Government to bring forward proposals to reform the upper house urgently.

The call comes following newspaper reports that Prime Minister Boris Johnson might appoint a raft of new peers including a number of party donors and former politicians. The new appointments, if approved, will likely take the total number of Lords to over 800.

In the 2019 general election manifesto the Conservative’s committed to reviewing the role of the House of Lords as part of a new Constitution, Democracy and Rights Commission – the details of which are yet to be published..

Over 100,000 people have signed an ERS petition calling for abolition and replacement of the House of Lords.

Willie Sullivan, Senior Director, Electoral Reform Society said: “We’re seeing yet again the Government play politics with the honours system and announcing a new round of unelected legislators set to join a House of Lords already bursting at the seams.

“Whilst the Lord Speaker has called for restraint on nominations to the Lords, the Prime Minister continues to pack the Lords with a new round of peers – cramming more political allies into the already bloated chamber.

“That many of these appointees are mired in scandal already does little to improve the reputation of the unelected, unaccountable upper house – which is increasingly becoming a home for political cronies and dodgy donors rather than the serious scrutiny chamber it claims to be.

“It’s hard to take the governments talk on reforming our constitution and improving our democracy seriously when they continue to gift lifetime appointments to Parliament as an act of political patronage. These new peers must be the last.

“It is no wonder faith in our democracy is at a record low.

"Voters are tired of unelected power in politics and are crying out for reform of our broken system. The government needs to step up now and put an end to this political charade.”

On the Waterfront The council has Granton firmly in its sights to become an exemplar of sustainable development, all within the goal of making Edinburgh a net zero carbon city by 2030.

Plans for a £1.3billion development including 3,500 homes, of which just over a third will be affordable homes, a cultural quarter, the iconic gasometer, commercial and retail space alongside cultural attractions and a coastal park linking Granton Harbour to Gypsy Brae are now making their way through the council processes. £200 million of council funding will be used for the affordable housing alone, and Edinburgh Council will work with other partners like The Scottish Government to put forward a case for Granton.

This will be a whole new eco-friendly area on the city's largest brownfield site exetending to 40 hectares.

The Depute Leader of the Council Cammy Day has a particular interest in this project as he represents the ward in the North of the city. He flagged up to us some of the exciting things that will happen this year - although the timeline for the whole project

is somewhat longer. It may well take a decade for this to come to fruition.

Cllr Day explained : "This puts forward a plan for investing in Granton Waterfront developing thousands of new homes including affordable homes, "In the coming months we will light up the gasometer with some help from Edinburgh College students.That will be a beacon that says Granton is open for business. We will be taking this plan with us to MIPIM in March to promote it to people interested in investing in the city. I hope it evidences a need for better public transport in the form of the final part of the tram line 1(b). It will bring a huge mix to that part of the city which has lain empty for a decade or more.

"We have put aside money from the Town Centre Fund to redevelop the Caroline Park Railway Station right in front of the Scottish Gas building. That was part of the purchase that the council made."

The outline proposals were approved by councillors and will now progress through planning.

The council bought the former Granton Gasworks frm National Grid investedinburgh.com

Future Edinburgh Choices for City Plan 2030 || City Mobility Plan

Give us your views on how our city develops

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The Edinburgh Reporter

12 BUSINESS

Student campus becomes largest Podcasting going Wel Scottish hotel each summer

A student campus in the heart of Edinburgh is ready for its busiest year yet – as it prepares for the annual summer transformation into Scotland’s largest hotel.

Following a £10.7m investment to refurbish part of Pollock Halls (Holland House), the team tasked with operating the campus is hoping it will further boost occupancy throughout the summer season, where it can house over 1,880 visitors at any one time.

Owned by the University of Edinburgh, and operated by the Accommodation Catering and Events division under their commercial brand Edinburgh First, the converted student accommodation offers a broad range of room options, perfect for all budgets from large groups to single travellers.

Lyndsay Wilkie, Director of

Business Development, Edinburgh First, said: “Our Pollock Halls campus offers affordable and quality accommodation options to people from all over the world.

“Most people would expect our campus to be quiet over the summer months when our students have left, however in June, July and August it takes on a totally different atmosphere as we welcome thousands of guests visiting our wonderful city.

“Our campus, once again, really comes to life, and this is particularly evident in August when festival goers and performers alike come together to celebrate the incredible culture and arts scene in Edinburgh.

“The size of the campus creates a truly unique buzz, almost like its very own small community.

The variety of rooms available at Pollock Halls means that we are

able to accommodate a diverse range of guests with varying budgets, from school groups and festival performers to couples who are looking for something slightly different and more affordable.

“We’re continually investing in our student accommodation to ensure we meet high quality standards. This not only benefits the students but also our summer guests.”

The Residences @ Pollock Halls have shared bathrooms and rooms for 890 people, Holland House @ Pollock Halls offers en-suite bedrooms and sleeps 350 people, while the three-star Chancellor’s Court and John Burnett House @ Pollock Halls are also en-suite bedrooms and have rooms for an additional 640 guests.

Pollock Halls has onsite amenities to suit every traveller’s needs including free parking, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, an on-site self-service restaurant, bar and a bistro and lounge in its 4-star hotel on site – Salisbury Green Hotel & Bistro.

Pollock Halls is available to book from 25 May until 10 September before preparations to return it into student halls begin.

Prices start from £37 per person per night and breakfast can be added for £14.25.

Woosh Entertainments have opened a new larger recording studio where they record podcasts.

The expansion comes just over a year after brothers Keith and Graeme Easton set up the capital's first dedicated podcast studio at their headquarters on the south side of the city.

Such has been the demand for their services at The Wel at Hillend that a bigger recording facility - almost double in size - was required to cope with the rapid increase in business.

"We opened The Wel podcast studio towards the end of 2018 as we identified this was a medium which was growing very quickly in popularity," said Keith Easton, managing director of Woosh.

"It has continued to grow rapidly with businesses large and small recognising the benefits of this route to market.

"People are also always looking for different ways of being entertained and podcasts are now one of the most popular methods of engagement.

"You just have to look at the latest RAJAR figures to see their impact. And we recently gave a presentation to the Chartered Institute of Public Relations on the benefits a podcast can bring.

"Here at The Wel we are working in a diverse range of sectors from sport to finance and mental health and it became evident that we would need to expand to cater for everyone who wanted to be heard by using our recording facilities."

The siblings are better known as the announcers for high-profile occasions such as showpiece football matches at Hampden Park, the Edinburgh Marathon and the Rat Race adventure sports events.

For years the pair also provided the music and announcing at Scotland rugby internationals at BT Murrayfield, while they also played a similar role at the London Olympics in 2012 and Glasgow's Commonwealth Games and Homeless World Cup. www.woosh.tv

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BUSINESS 13

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Lost Close anything but lost cause for city visitors

Andrew Landsburgh of CoDE Andrew Landsburgh is very keen to show off the very bottom level of the building that CoDE Pod Hostel occupies in Parliament Square.

And he has good reason to be excited about it. He did not know it was there when he first bought the city centre property!

This is the party level and is the scooped out storey that was found completely by accident. It was a party place in the past too where some of the city's most learned people gathered, perhaps drinking coffee at John's Coffee House below.

Andrew said: "The Lost Close is amazing. I looked back in the history books to see what was here before. There was an infamous fire in 1824 when this whole section of Parliament Square - all the tenements here just crumbled and burned down. I got all the architect's drawings of

the new police station which they built here in 1830 and saw that there was a close called Steil's Close that came down and linked back into Old Fishmarket Close.

"Steil's Close had vanished. You can see the map before the fire and that post fire it has gone.

They just built over it and down there you can see an archway underneath the building."

That archway led into Old Fishmarket Close, as did Royal Bank Close and Hangman's Close which have both since disappeared.

This basement level is now incorporated into CoDE and offers a really unique space for private parties and beer and whisky tastings. They have a nightly beer tasting at 7.00pm, host open mic events and also have their own resident magician.

It is a real piece of history in the city. On the walls the plasterwork shows ancient craftsmanship at its most innovative - it has horse hair in it.

Elsewhere in the building the former court room where Greyfriar's Bobby's case was heard is now a 24 person dorm with a lovely bright central area with lockers and mirrors. Each pod has its own comfy bed with curtains and mood lighting. And the rates are affordable. On an out of season Tuesday night I could have stayed for £20 for the night. They

Funky lighting adds to the atmosphere

Affordable overnight stays in the city centre

are pitching their business at solo travellers who want to be right in the heart of the city. The reviews are all about cleanliness and this being an extremely nice place to spend the night.

And if you don't want to stay over then just have a coffee in the cafe area near the front door. Andrew welcomes everyone who wants to come in for a look: "Come in, look at the history on the walls, enjoy a coffee and meet our lovely team.

We've got lots of people from all over the world who work here."

In all, there is a team of just under 30 staff looking after guests - and ensuring their safety by communicating with them on WhatsApp if need be. If anyone feels unsafe in any dorm then this is the ideal way to tell staff about any troublesome behaviour by other guests.

And the business has expanded beyond Edinburgh. Andrew said : "We recently completed a building on Talbot Place in Dublin where we worked with a private equity fund on a joint venture. That has just been sold and we are looking for something else, but I feel that this building and the one on Rose Street are one-offs."

The first CoDE is also in a corner building that no one can see on Rose Street. That started five years ago and it is a small building, with only 30 pods. Guests stay overnight in the hostel either in individual pods or in dorms in Parliament Square.

Andrew got the idea when he was in Asia. He said :"Everyone was sleeping in pods in Japan and China and Indonesia and I thought it'd be a good idea if Edinburgh had some. So I tried it in Rose Street on a smaller scale and it worked. The reviews came back and it was brilliant.

"Rose Street is a nice wee family building, it feels very cosy and warm and and we've got a lot of repeat custom as well."

Andrew is originally from Dundee but came to Law School here in Edinburgh and then went to work in the US at what he describes

as his favourite job - selling golf holidays to rich Scots. He explained: "It was great fun but the guy I worked for did not pay very well so I left and then worked for a developer in Scottsdale in Arizona learning about real estate."

Andrew is a keen golfer which was definitely the attraction.

He then came back here and started a couple of businesses one, Edinburgh Festival Rentals,

was sold on to Rettie & Co., Destiny Scotland is a business managing serviced apartment blocks, and he has managed some student accommodation too.

Living in Edinburgh with his family he is either on a plane or getting on with his daily commute.

Andrew said : "I feel really lucky living here - where I can walk to work." www.codehostels.com

Pods are very cosy and welcoming

The main reception

City firm appoint new partner Thorntons has appointed Catriona Miller as Partner in its Edinburgh Private Client team based at Citypoint, Haymarket.

She will take a leading role in advising Private Clients and also help to grow the department.

Catriona grew up in East Lothian before gaining both her degree and Diploma in Legal Practice at Aberdeen University. After graduating Catriona predominantly worked at Fyfe Ireland and Anderson Strathern. She has built up expertise in private client work with specialisms in wills, powers of attorney and tax efficient succession planning.

Catriona said: “I’m delighted to start this new chapter in my career with such a diverse and dynamic firm. I intend to continue to develop my network

of connections in the industry and with clients, be an inspiring leader for my team and support Thorntons’ CSR activities within the community.”

Murray Etherington, Head of Private Client at Thorntons, said: “It’s great to welcome Catriona to our Private Client team based in Edinburgh. I have no doubt she will bring a wealth of experience and skills that will be a huge asset to both Thorntons and our clients.”

Thorntons Chairman Colin Graham, Catriona Miller and Murray Etherington

The Edinburgh Reporter

14 THE BEST OF...

The Edinburgh Reporter Best Of...

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

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

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

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home Rescue, reunite, rehome.

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home accepts any dog or cat that reaches their door in need, and works tirelessly to secure happy and loving forever homes.

26 Seafield Road East, EH15 1EH 0131 669 5331 info@edch.org.uk

Queen’s Hall Did you know this independent charity needs £100K each year to look after the building and run outreach projects? Add a donation when buying tickets!

85-89 Clerk Street, EH8 9JG 0131 668 2019 www.thequeenshall.net

Art & Craft Collective A unique gallery and gift shop experience in Edinburgh's Southside. Join their mailing list for exclusive invitations to preview events, and new art and craft work.

0131 639 9123 93 Causewayside EH9 1DG artcraftcollective.co.uk

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

Strictly by appointment.

07774757222 48 Thistle Street EH2 1EN 21stcenturykilts.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bon Papillon Stuart and Ingrid welcome you warmly to their café. Admire Ingrid's paintings and art while you enjoy Stuart's latest scones. Stuart runs a framing business in this busy corner in the New Town.

0131 538 2505 bonpapillon15@gmail.com bonpapillon.com

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

They don't take table bookings.

Fabulous cakes and happy friendly staff.

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

New Edinburgh Orchestra Friendly amateur 80 player orchestra conducted by Tim Paxton. Weekly rehearsals and three annual concerts. 28 March 2020 at Inverleith St Serf’s 7.30pm Dvořák Broom and Vaughan Williams Tickets Queen’s Hall www.newedinburghorchestra.org. uk

The Broughton Pub & Eatery This is the latest place on Broughton Street. Embracing the new while giving a respectful nod to the familiar. Everyone’s Local.

0131 556 6608 46-48A Broughton Street EH1 3SA hello@thebroughtonbar.com www.thebrougtonbar.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leith Walk Police Box pop up space This offers a short term flexible let from as short as 4 hours and they welcome budding entrepreneurs, charities and community groups.

Got a great idea? Try it out here!

Croall Place EH7 4LT 07842 482382

WHAT’S ON IN MARCH Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals

World Heritage Day lecture Loyd Grossman, CBE, internationally renowned heritage writer and broadcaster, will deliver this year's World Heritage Day lecture.

In "The Heritage Dilemma Making and Breaking World Cities" he will discuss the heritage dilemma faced by Edinburgh, where commercial and cultural businesses compete to flourish in a heritage rich environment, with little, if any, real contribution to the ever-increasing cost of

supporting it.

Join Edinburgh World Heritage as they take a closer look at Edinburgh's own heritage dilemma.

Loyd is a former Commissioner of English Heritage, and is currently President of the Arts Society, Vice President of the Churches Conservation Trust, and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

Tickets £6 on Eventbrite Thursday 16 April 6.00pm St Andrew's and St George's West, 13 George Street, EH2 2PA

Film Preview March 2020

by Adam Zawadzki Released on 6 March ‘Onward’ is the 22nd feature film from Pixar.

Featuring a voice cast that includes Tom Holland (In the Heart of the Sea), Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy), Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Enough Said) and Octavia Spencer (Hidden Figures), this computer-animated fantasy focuses on two teenage brothers who complete a magical quest in under 24 hours.

Almost two years ago, the science fiction horror ‘A Quiet Place’ grossed just over $340 million worldwide on a production budget of up to only $21 million and currently holds a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

So the stakes are high for its

Listings Happy Birch Tree!

A Dundas Street art gallery is marking a big birthday by celebrating its iconic tree. ‘Birches’ is a group exhibition dedicated to these beautiful, unique trees, showcasing work in a wide variety of media.

The Birch Tree Gallery is celebrating its three year anniversary. Remaining true to its original idea of exhibiting fine crafts along with original

prints and paintings, the gallery has always had a variety of media on display, typically in duo exhibitions, featuring one artist on the wall and another on the plinths. Previous exhibitions have included glass, ceramics, textile, woodwork, stone carving, basketry, paper and art books.

Birches 11 March to 4 April, Birch Tree Gallery 23a Dundas Street EH3 6QQ

Cantering to Scotland Rockrose Equestrian Centre in Haddington will welcome back eventing World Champion Ros Canter and leading coach Caroline Moore on 9 March to present the Training to Win Lecture Demo.

The due will share the secrets of

their success and what goes on behind the scenes when preparing to become gold medal winners.

Learn from the best while enjoying an evening with friends.

Ros will be signing autographs and meeting guests on the evening.

The Great Eastern A brand new all-day music festival which will take place in Edinburgh on Saturday 9 May. Continuing the theme of musical exploration and discovery from The Great Western, which began in Glasgow's West End in November last year, The Great Eastern will have over 40 acts at venues including The Queen's Hall, King's Hall and several rooms at Summerhall.

Among the first batch of artists announced is Bristol trio Beak>

featuring Portishead’s Geoff Barrow who have a compelling mix of Krautrock/John Carpenter-inspired spookiness. They were one of the highlights at Doune the Rabbit Hole last summer, before entertaining their biggest Scottish crowd to date at QMU in December.

The Great Eastern is the latest venture from promoters 432 Presents, in association with Summerhall/Nothing Ever Happens Here and The Queen’s Hall.

Last chance to see: Edinburgh City Art Centre Classical Edinburgh closes on 8 March.

This exhibition connects the work of architectural photographers Edwin Smith and Colin McLean whose images, created 50 years apart, celebrate Edinburgh’s world-famous Neo-Classical architecture.

Also a last shout for Mary Cameron Life in Paint which is on until 15 March. An exhibition

sequel ‘A Quiet Place: Part II’, (19 March), to do just as well as its predecessor. John Krasinski returns at writer/director while Emily Blunt (Mary Poppins Returns) reprises her Screen Actors Guild Award winning role.

Another computer animation, this time from DreamWorks, will be ‘Trolls World Tour’ (20 March). A sequel to ‘Trolls’, which won a Grammy and received Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for its original song ‘Can’t Stop The Feeling!’, features Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick reprising their leading voice roles.

On 27 March, ‘Mulan’ will be the 16th Disney live-action remake of its animated films in just over 25 years. An additional 13 are in various stages of development. celebrating the life and career of pioneering Edinburgh-born artist Mary Cameron (1865-1921) who, despite being a very accomplished artist, is little known today. The exhibition displays over 40 rarelyseen artworks from public and private collections and explores the life and career of a woman who was truly ahead of her time.

Wee Dub Festival 2020 13-15 March in the Old Town Tribute Festival comes to Edinburgh on 14 March 2.00 10.00pm at The Liquid Room 9c Victoria Street

A month at the Museum National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily Tyrannosaurs is big at the museum this year This runs until Monday 4 May Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Adult £12, £10 Over 60s, £9 Student, Unemployed, Disabled, £6 Child (5–15), Under 5s Free Family of 3 £22 (must include at least 1 adult and 1 child) Family of 4 £29 (must include at least 1

adult and 1 child) Members Free Meet the most feared and revered of all dinosaurs in this cutting-edge exhibition, bringing the latest palaeontological discoveries to life. Explore the tyrannosaur family tree with life-size cast skeletons, rare fossils and incredible models. Through an augmented reality experience and large-scale projections, interact with dinosaurs in real time inside the gallery, and even walk alongside them as they explore Edinburgh.

Parasites: Battle for Survival examines five deadly diseases, which together affect 1 in 18 people around the world

Mulan | © Disney © Disney•Pixar © & ™ Lucasfilm LTD © Marvel.

Onward | © Disney © Disney•Pixar © & ™ Lucasfilm LTD © Marvel.

Royal High Beer Festival on 14 March from 4.30 to 10.30 pm at Royal High School on East Barnton Avenue Edinburgh Premier Fair is on 20 and 21 March at Radisson Blu Hotel, 80 High Street.

The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra is playing at The Usher Hall on Sunday 22 March.

The Scottish Tattoo Convention is at Edinburgh Corn Exchange on 28 and 29 March from 10.00am to 10.00pm each day.

Parasites: Battle for Survival Running until Sunday 19 April Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Free Join the battle against five tropical diseases and the parasites that cause them in this interactive exhibition and discover how scientific research taking place in Scotland is leading the way in this field. Through current research, cutting edge technologies and interactive exhibits, learn more about parasites, discover how they are transmitted to humans and the ways in which they are fighting back against modern medicine.

Chinese Oracle Bones Until Sunday 29 March Exhibition Gallery, Level 1 Free Discover some of the treasures within the National Museum Scotland's significant collection of oracle bones, the second largest in the world outside of China.

Inscribed with the earliest known Chinese writing, the bones were used for divination during the late Shang dynasty (c.1200-1050 BC). nms.ac.uk

16 WHAT'S ON

Rockstars This fascinating Rock Stars exhibition by professional photograhpers Brian Aris, Doug Corrance, Peter Hince, Chris Close, and John Claridge will provide a glimpse into another world that most of us look on with a mixture of admiration, jealousy and sometimes horror.

Some of the greats from the world of Rock and Roll - Blondie, Bowie, Kate Bush, The Stones, Annie Lennox and Queen, to name but a few, are the main protogonists shown in their pomp.

Peter Hince was Queen’s chief roadie for over a decade and knew the band well. He was persuaded to stay on for what turned out to be the band's last tour (with Freddie at the helm) before embarking on a career in photography. Peter went on to become an award winning photographer with his underwater images receiving great critical acclaim. He refers to Freddie as Fred and one day Fred called him in to say: “you must take a picture

Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals with the robes and crown".

“Being Queen the robes and crown was made well and was actually quite heavy," recalls Peter.

"He was not the arrogant persona that the press liked to portray.

This image would have been taken when he knew he was ill."

Brian Aris first shot Blondie in the 70s from his East End studio in London. He said: "The East End at that time was the East End of grit and grime and not the gentrified desirable district it is now. People did not want to go there but it never fazed Blondie. She was a New Yorker." This picture became the first of many Brian was to shoot over the years.

Brian also shot David Bowie's wedding to Iman in Italy. To stop the press getting access they rigged up big drapes but during the ceremony one guest tried to sneak a picture. Bowie approached Brian afterwards and promptly threw out the person who had taken it.

Doug Corrance was a press photographer working on a local newspaper in Inverness when he was asked to photograph Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin.

Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones Photo by Brian Aris

Musical excellence Music Students Tune Up For Queen’s Hall Gifted musicians from The City of Edinburgh Music School will take centre stage at the 9th National Showcase of Excellence at The Queen’s Hall on Monday, 9 March 2020.

The gala performance features Scotland’s finest young musical talent drawn from the four Scottish Centres of Excellence in Music who will perform a varied programme of solo and ensemble pieces.

Wind and string instruments will feature alongside vocal pieces and a special recital using The Queen's Hall’s two Steinway Model D Grand pianos.

Edinburgh’s next generation of musical talent will perform alongside pupils from Aberdeen

City Music School, The Music School of Douglas Academy in Milngavie and The National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music in Plockton.

The event will be compered by Lisa Kerr, Principal of Gordonstoun and alumna of The City of Edinburgh Music School, which numbers between 35 and 45 pupils in any given year and which incorporate students from Flora Stevenson Primary and Broughton High.

More information on how to get your hands on some tickets here: www.thequeenshall.net/ whats-on/9th-national-showcaseexcellence And a reminder to read our full listings of all the events on at The Queen's Hall on Page 18. Then book your tickets....

Jimmy owned Aleister Crowley’s former house near Loch Ness.

Aleister was a notorious figure, sometimes portrayed as a devil worshipper and there is even a song by Black Sabbath entitled Mr Crowley. Bowie too references Crowley in his song Station to Station. The house has now gone, it burnt down appropriately enough, and Doug's pictures of Jimmy have taken on a historical significance. Doug used to spend a lot of time in the area and got to know Jimmy and is still in touch.

Gallery owner Chris Close recalls how, when shooting Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols, Johnny had had a few beers and started taking his clothes off.

Chris said : "He was over 50 at this stage and his body was not ‘beach ready’. He looked at one of the pictures and snarled 'look at that, I’m disgusting . . . that’s great'.

"Most people are so worried about looking their best, so it was refreshing to have someone whose attitude was the polar opposite.”

Gallery-Close is now selling work

by Lynn Goldsmith, the New York based rock photographer. Lynn has "been there and shot that", publishing several books on the people she has photographed including, Springsteen, U2, The Stones, Patti Smith, Zappa and the inimitable Debbie Harry. She is one of the world’s most prominent Rock and Roll photographers.

Gallery-Close is one of the only photography galleries in Scotland.

Although small it represent a number of photographers and offer a bespoke service always looking to help clients from across the UK and beyond.

All work is for sale and is signed and editioned.

Venue: Gallery-Close , 4B Howe Street, EH3 6TD 21 March to 13 April, free.

Opening Times : Wed-Saturday 10am-6pm and by appointment.

Annie Lennox by Brian Aris one of the photographers featured in the exhibition

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WHAT'S ON 17

#EdSciFest2020 - Our Top Five The Edinburgh Science Festival bursts in to life from 4 to 19 April with the theme Elementary - earth, fire, air and water (as well as a newly added fifth element by the festival, aether, representing information).

Here are our Top Five picks: Earth: Population Facts or Fake News Saturday 4 April at 3.00pm 90 minutes, £9, £7 (early bird), #SCIFIVE £5 (students and teachers) Auditorium, National Museum of

Scotland.

Fire: Climate Sickness Saturday 11 April at 12.30pm 90 minutes, £9, £7 (early bird), #SCIFIVE £5 (students and teachers) Auditorium, National Museum of Scotland.

Aether: Deep Dive into Deep Fakes Saturday 18 April at 5.30pm 1 hour, £9, £7 (early bird), #SCIFIVE £5 (students and teachers)

Lomond Room, Pleasance.

Air: Roads Re-Imagined Tuesday 14 April at 5.30pm 1 hour, £9, £7 (early bird), #SCIFIVE £5 (students and teachers) Upper Hall, Pleasance.

Water: Exploring the Five Deeps Friday 10 April at 7.00pm 2 hours, £9, £7 (early bird), #SCIFIVE £5 (students and teachers) Biosphere, Dynamic Earth. sciencefestival.co.uk

#IWW 2020 International Women's Day Is Citywide Celebration Now a worldwide celebration, there are dozens of events taking place and here are just three of our top choices of what is going on in Edinburgh.

The Real Mary King's Close International Women's Day Tour Warriston's Close, 2 High Street, Sunday 8 March.

11.00am, 2.00pm and 5.45pm £16.50 per person for 1 hour

Learn about the women of the closes from Mary Queen of Scots to Mary King.

Capital Theatres' International Women's Day Take Over Festival Theatre, 13/29 Nicolson Street, Sunday 8 March.

1.00pm - 5.00pm Free (£1.50 booking fee) Enjoy an afternoon of free food, music, performances and

workshops.

WanderWomen: Women's Day Bonfire & Swim Portobello Beach, 1 Promenade, Sunday 8 March.

5.00pm - 7.00pm Free Brace yourself for a sea swim and beach bonfire. Take along food and drink to share as well as firewood if possible.

Cringletie hosts sparkling dinner A gourmet black tie champagne dinner on Thursday 26 March will be co-hosted by Benjamin Fourmon, Managing Director of family-owned champagne house, Joseph Perrier.

Cringletie is a 15-bedroom hotel on a 28 acre estate near Peebles, just half an hour from Edinburgh.

A champagne and canapé reception will start the evening off at 7.00pm in the Maguire Lounge.

Canapés will be accompanied by a classic Joseph Perrier ‘Cuvee Royale’ Brut.

This will be followed by a

New Edinburgh Orchestra Saturday 28 March 2020, 7.30pm Inverleith St Serf's Church, 280 Ferry Road, Edinburgh (map) Conductor: Tim Paxton Dvořák The Golden Spinning Wheel Broom Harbinger Vaughan Williams A London Symphony Tickets (£12 full price, £8 concessions, £1 children) are available from the Queen's Hall Box Office 85-89 Clerk St T 0131 668 2019 or on the door just before the concert www.newedinburghorchestra. org.uk

HippFest 2020 The silent film festival HippFest 2020 is on from 18 to 22 March.

This year they celebrate the Roaring Twenties with masked crusaders, real-life martyrs and femmes fatales.

Taking place at Scotland’s first purpose-built cinema, The Hippodrome in Bo’ness, you are assured this will be a weekend full of swashbuckling and romance and stars.

Apart from the starry ceiling in the cinema big names are now being attracted to the award winning festival.

Paul McGann will perform a live narration of L’Homme du Large (1920).

Skiffle and blues band the Dodge Brothers, broadcaster pianist and HippFest favourite Neil Brand will accompany FW Murnau’s City Girl

(1930) performing their new live score with Mark Kermode.

Some of the highlights include : Opening night screening Dawn (1928) This is one of the most controversial films of the 1920s telling the story of Edith Cavell who was shot at dawn by the

sumptuous five-course dinner devised by Head Chef, Iain Gourlay, matched with the exquisite Joseph Perrier champagnes.

Benjamin Fourmon will be in attendance at the dinner to formally present the champagnes and to tell the fascinating story of

his family and its unique history as producers of world-famous Champagne.

Priced at £125 per person, early booking is advisable as this is sure to be an extremely popular event.

Payment will be taken at the time of booking.

Accommodation is available at special rates from £75 per person bed and breakfast, based on double occupancy.

To book a table call the hotel direct on 01721 725750 www.cringletie.com

Germans in 1915 for helping hundreds of Allied soldiers escape from German occupied Belgium The premiere of Laurel and Hardy’s recently restored Duck Soup (1927) which was later remade with sound as Another Fine Mess, screening with two other comedy classics Two Tars (1928) and Liberty (1929 ) Danish superstar Asta Nielsen

taking the lead role in Shakespeare’s best-known tragedy Hamlet (1921).

Closing Night screening : L’Homme du Large (1920) a powerful tale of a fisherman and his family living on the remote Breton coast torn apart by their idle and degenerate son.

Many more films in the programme www.hippfest.co.uk

The stars will be out in force at Hippfest 2020

18 WHAT'S ON

Theatre Art Music Shows Festivals

At The Queen’s Hall The Queen’s Hall, Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9JG Box Office: 0131 668 2019 www.thequeenshall.net 4 March at 6.30pm Resonate 2020 Studio to Stage. £11 and £6 (child) A fantastic performance platform giving pupils from Edinburgh’s primary and secondary schools an opportunity to showcase achievements in music, dance and drama. Prepare to be impressed by the creativity and variety of performances.

5 March at 7.00pm Resonate 2020 Strings & Traditional. £11 and £6 (child) A mixture of harmonious strings and traditional groups with beautiful performances from very talented young musicians. Groups performing are the Edinburgh Primary Sevens String Orchestra, Edinburgh Schools Strings Training Orchestra, Edinburgh Schools Clarsach groups and

TG010930 Edinbrugh Reporter

Piping Hot. 6 March at 8.00pm Martin Hayes with support from Rachel Newton. £17 Martin Hayes is regarded as one of the most significant talents to emerge in the world of Irish traditional music. Award winner

singer/harpist Rachel will support him.

7 March at 7.30pm Kevin Bloody Wilson. £31.50 Considered 'The World’s Funniest Australian', Kevin Bloody Wilson is as dry and as rough as his Outback heritage. Expect adult themes as he can be offensive.

9 March at 7.00pm The 9th National Showcase of Excellence. £7.50-£15.50 Scotland’s finest young musical talent drawn from the four Scottish Centres of Excellence in Music - Aberdeen City Music School, The City of Edinburgh Music School, The Music School of Douglas Academy, Milngavie, and The National Centre of _PRINTFILE.pdf 25/02/2020 13:12 Excellence in 1Traditional Music, Plockton - will perform a varied

programme of solo and ensemble pieces to suit all tastes.

12 March at 7.30pm Conversations with Roddy Doyle £20 Celebrate the career of one of Ireland’s best-loved writers, as he discusses his work in an

intimate and entertaining evening of sprawling conversation, with a special guest interviewer.

16 March at 8.00pm John Shuttleworth’s Back . . . is giving him trouble. £17.50-£19.50 Years of strenuous DIY, not to mention playing his organ whilst perched upon a multi pack of Diet Sprite with no lumber support, has taken its toll. But - ever the trouper - John returns to regale audiences with an evening of his

classic songs (plus new ones and hilarious 'back' stories), pausing only to reapply his deep heat rub.

19 March at 7.30pm Scottish Chamber Orchestra £6-£37 Bartók: Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta Eötvös: Double Bass Concerto ‘Aurora’ UK Premiere.

Haydn: Symphony No 92 ‘Oxford’ Thomas Zehetmair: Conductor Nikita Naumov: Double Bass Composer Insights, 6.45pm 20 March at 7.00pm Resonate 2020 Bands & Orchestras. £11 and £6 (child) If you love the sound of big orchestras, this is for you. A concert packed with a wonderful variety of music that will include Edinburgh Secondary Schools Orchestra, Edinburgh Schools Wind Ensemble, Edinburgh Schools Classical Guitar Orchestra and Edinburgh Schools Jazz Orchestra.

21 March at 7.30pm Edinburgh Highland Reel & Strathspey Society. £8-£15 The evening will feature the orchestra, under the baton

of well-known Scottish fiddle player Yla Steven, BEM, playing marches, strathspeys, reels, jigs and hauntingly beautiful slow airs. With Dennis Haggerty, tenor; Martin Duncan, piper; and Fox Covert Primary School Choir.

22 March at 7.30pm The Dodge Brothers. £17 The Dodge Brothers are renowned for playing the hell out of classic Americana. Described as “wonderful stuff” by Radio 2 presenter Bob Harris, they play an exuberant hybrid of country blues, rockabilly, jugband and skiffle.

Presenter and film critic Mark Kermode will start the evening talking about his book 'How Does It Feel?' before joining the rest of the band.

26 March at 7.30pm Scottish Chamber Orchestra £6-£37 Vivaldi: Concerto con molti stromenti, RV558 Corelli: Concerto Grosso No 11 in B-flat Zelenka: Miserere in C minor Vivaldi: Concerto per la Solennità di San Lorenzo, RV562.

Vivaldi: Gloria Maxim Emelyanychev: Conductor and Harpsichord Anna Dennis: Soprano Mhairi Lawson: Soprano James Hall: Countertenor SCO Chorus, Gregory Batsleer: Chorus Director

Trams to Newhaven Leith Walk

Bus Diversions from Sat 28th March 2020 Leith Walk will be closed to Northbound traďŹƒc for the next stage of the Trams to Newhaven project.

For further information visit: www.lothianbuses.co.uk

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/tramstonewhaven

The Edinburgh Reporter

20 NEWS

Deadlifting for Down Under

by Stephen Rafferty Weightlifters at a Leith gym put their backs in to raising almost £4000 for beleaguered fire fighters who tackled the recent devastating Australian bush fires.

Power lifter Bethany Winkler, originally from New South Wales, wanted to support brave fire fighters back home and roped in fellow gym members at Elysium in

Duke Street to take part in Deadlift for Down Under.

Members paid to compete in a charity deadlifting competition, a donations website added to monies raised, and a host of local Leith businesses, including Santu Coffee, Bross Bagels and Nauticus Bar, contributed goods and services for a raffle while a home bake sale added icing to the cake.

Proceeds from the sale of pictures taken at the event by professional photographers Pennmann will also boost the firefighting fund.

More than 30 weightlifters, some who had never lifted heavy weights before, took part. The top lift of the day was achieved

by Elysium gym owner Dean Robertson (260kg), while top

Event Organiser Bethany Winkler

Gym owner Dean Robertson Photos credit www.pennmann.co.uk

female was Jo Parkin, who equalled her record of 185kg which she set at the Scottish Masters Championship.

Bethany, 30, said: “A lot of the areas affected by the bush fires was very close to family and friends and I wanted to do something to hep the volunteer fire fighters back home.

“As someone who has done a couple of Scottish power lifting competitions I wanted to make it something fun that anyone could take part in. In a normal powerlifting competition there are three lifts of squat, bench and deadlift, but just to make it fun and accessible for anyone who wanted

to get involved, we restricted it to deadlifts only.

“We got a real mix of novicebeginners and people who have competed at a very high level, and at the moment we have raised about £3700 which is fantastic.

I really appreciate the efforts of everyone who supported the day and the generous local businesses who played their part.”

The funds raised will be split equally with New South Wales Fire Service and Victoria Fire Service, both of which are staffed by volunteer firefighters. Anyone who would like to donate can visit https://chuffed.org/project/ deadliftfordownunder

Hostelling Scotland Chief Executive, Margo Paterson, and Edinburgh Central Hostel Manager, Janet Gagen, at the launch of the newly renovated Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel

New look for Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel

They have a new look at Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel. The work has code £450,000 and has completely transformed the ground floor. The reception, lounge café bar and restaurant has been transformed into a space to welcome everyone. Hostelling Scotland Chief Executive, Margo Paterson, said: "Hostelling Scotland is the best hostelling organisation in Scotland and we are delighted with the positive feedback from the Edinburgh Central project. This truly supports our mission to make more of Scotland more accessible to more people than anyone else, especially young people. Our aim is to provide great value, affordable, flexible and welcoming accommodation in the best locations across this beautiful country of ours."

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TRAVEL 21

Putting the T in Taiwan

by Phyllis Stephen I really did not know before I visited that they grew tea in Taiwan. I knew it was the world's largest manufacturer of semiconductor chips and that it boasts the largest number and density of high mountains. But I had no idea about the tea.

The history of tea begins properly on mainland China, spreading across the world with international trade. At the Pinglin Tea Museum they took us through the history of tea on the island, and how it became one of the three big exports during the Qing dynasty, along with sugar and camphor.

These were the three treasures the national economy clearly depended on in the 19th century.

Tea exports grew from 82 metric tonnes in 1865 to a staggering 8,210 metric tonnes by 1894. Tea was attractive to both Chinese and foreign tea merchants and the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 was important in allowing Taiwanese tea to reach New York.

It was a Scottish businessman, John Dodd, who pioneered the tea trade in Taiwan. He arrived in 1865 to investigate trade opportunities and discovered that the north of the country was perfect for planting tea. He introduced

Fujian Anxi tea to the hills around Taipei and refined it using fairly sophisticated production equipment before selling it in the US. Formosa Oolong tea became the tea of choice, although Chin Shin Oolong has been cultivated longest in the country's mountains.

Sadly the Japanese occupation of WW2 spelled the end of the glorious era of tea and today the country's tea exports total around £100 million.

We learned that only the tips of the leaves are picked and that each tea plant might be harvested four times a year - although the best tea is generally picked in the winter before March. Tea picked in summer is more bitter.

We were told that the smell of tea is everything - if the smell is rancid or sour then it may indicate poor quality. We were invited to experience different aromas with a nifty device on the wall which puffed across the top of some tea leaves to send the tea aroma our way. We tasted some very lovely tea made with huge green leaves in a glass teapot in very small cups, such as you would find in a Chinese restaurant here - the pot was refilled several times allowing each cup to be slightly weaker.

Then there's bubble tea. We visited the home of Bubble Tea - where it all started - Chun Shui Tang - where the gorgeous tea (blended with milk or fruit juices) was only surpassed by the excellent food served - but that is another story all of its own!

I was a guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan) for six days on a tourism and culture trip. We were extremely well looked after

by Vincent, Rachel and Happy who ensured that we got to each destination on time. Taiwanese are punctual we found out - and extremely friendly. Much of our time was spent eating and here are the recollections of some of my companions : Johnna French is a Washington DC based food expert who writes Johnna Knows Good Food. She said : “I thoroughly enjoyed the dumplings from the original Din Tai Fung. The thin, delicate dough was the perfect contrast to the bold flavors that were hidden inside the dumplings. Because of the relationship between tea and the Taiwanese culture, The Pinglin Tea Museum was another favourite.”

Elise Kirsten writes for South African title Getaway from Cape Town. She wrote: “Taiwan is a tea drinker's heaven and as I'm addicted to the stuff, I was delighted to enjoy the island's Oolong tea at the Pingling Tea Museum. The warm pearl milk tea from the store where bubble tea originated was also a hit. There's a playful element to spooning up the black tapioca balls, some of which spilt over my teaspoon and

Looking out across the lush valley from Pinglin Tea Museum PHOTO ©2020 The Edinburgh Reporter

drifted down to the depths of my mug, only to be stirred up by the 'currents' as I fished for more.”

Lisa Kadane is a freelance travel writer. She said: “A highlight for me was the food - I didn’t realise there are so many must-try dishes, from soup dumplings to stinky tofu.

Ditto the bubble tea. I loved the people. I’ve never felt so welcome, or safe, as I did in Taiwan. I’ve also never had a stranger share guava and tomatoes with me on top of a mountain. It was definitely worthwhile to get out of the city and hike in Yangmingshan National Park, and neat to see so many Taiwanese out in nature without any face masks!”

Dean Nestor travelled all the way from St Lucia. He was not

as keen on the food as he was on the Bubble Tea which he loved. He enjoyed this part best though. He said: “The most surreal experience was that unforgettable journey at the i-Ride Experience Centre. an unforgettable if nervewracking ride through many of Taiwan’s major attractions. It was incredible.” * The Editor travelled to Taiwan as part of a group of journalists invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan).

The Edinburgh Reporter

22 NEWS

ESPC say Musselburgh is best Toun for landlords Data from ESPC and Citylets has revealed top rental yields in Musselburgh.

One bedroom properties in the EH21 postcode district offer landlords an average gross rental yield (AGRY) of 6.8%, higher than most areas in the city.

This is based on the latest rental market data from Citylets and accompanying house price information from ESPC from 1st September to 31st December 2019.

The EH21 area is in both the East Lothian and Edinburgh council areas, and includes Musselburgh, Newcraighall, Wallyford and Whitecraig. One bedroom properties there sold for an average price of £117,500 in the last quarter of 2019, and the average monthly rent for these properties was £666.

Other areas with strong rental yields were EH12 and EH15. One bedroom properties in these areas achieved an AGRY of 6%. Two bedroom properties in the EH12 area also achieved an AGRY of

5.3%.

One bedroom Old Town properties offered a good return on investment with achieving an AGRY of 5.8%.

Nicky Lloyd, Head of ESPC Lettings, said: “While there is high demand from tenants for the West End and Leith, competition for properties in these areas can mean that average property prices are high, which results in potential rental yields not being as strong.

“Combining ESPC and Citylets data we can see that one bedroom properties in the EH21 area, had an AGRY of 6.8%. As this area is further out of the city, property prices are less competitive but excellent bus and train links to the city centre make it an attractive option for tenants.

“One bedroom Old Town properties also offered a strong average rental yield, highlighting that while property prices are high in this area, the strong demand for rental homes in the city centre can still result in a good return on investment.”

Senior Sodexo leaders team up Prime time for £1m+ with Edinburgh Cyrenians charity Edinburgh homes Leaders from catering and events company, Sodexo, volunteered at the Edinburgh-based homeless charity, Cyrenians. Four members of the senior sales team spent the day receiving and sorting donations, stock taking and creating food parcels for people living on the edge across the capital.

The Sodexo sales team features representatives throughout the UK, including Amanda Brown, UK Sales Director, Fiona McLellan, Head of Sales for Cultural Destinations, Stephanie Lee, Head of Sales for MICE UK, and Kate Nicholl, Head of Sales Development.

Amanda Brown, UK Sales Director, Sodexo Sports & Leisure said: “Across Sodexo, we are committed to stopping hunger and so the work that the Cyrenians are carrying out in Edinburgh very much fits with our vision and values as a business. The Cyrenians have continued to impress us and the aim of our team day is to try and understand the challenges they face and how we can help their efforts today and

in the future. As a team, our focus on 2020 is giving back and this is the first of many volunteering days we will carry out together.”

The Cyrenians work to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness in Scotland.

Food poverty is a key element of many of its services. In addition to operating the FareShare depot for central and south-eastern Scotland they run cooking courses

and community cook clubs across Midlothian and Fife.

The name Cyrenians comes from the biblical story of Simon the Cyrene but Cyrenians was founded as and remains a secular organisation. The charity is a partner of Sodexo’s own initiative, Stop Hunger.

Find out more here: http:// uk.stop-hunger.org/home.html

Savills latest residential research reveals the growing strength of the super prime market in Scotland.

Edinburgh had its highest ever number of residential transactions at £1 million and above from January to December 2019 with 196 sales, 35% more than more than the previous high of 145 in 2007 and a rise of 53% compared to 2018.

There were 287 sales at this level across Scotland, just three less than the all-time record of 2007.

There were 15 transactions at £2 million and above last year across Scotland, including eight over £3 million.

This compares with six at £2 million and above in 2018 when there were none over £3 million. At £3.65 million, Kincairney House in Perthshire was the most expensive Scottish sale last year.

Savills research reveals an increase in the number of Scottish buyers, but also in the numbers buying from outside Scotland, including all over the UK, Australia, Japan and the USA. Savills own sales led the super prime market in Scotland last year.

Research Director Faisal Choudhry said: “Edinburgh’s dominance of Scotland’s prime market has grown in recent years, supported by an expanding economy and people moving here from outside Scotland.

Price growth in the capital has also pushed many transactions into this price band.

Despite this, Edinburgh remains relatively affordable compared to other university cities in the UK, with more capacity for price growth underpinned by continuing economic and population expansion, with a surplus of motivated buyers”.

Not suprisingly the capital city regularly features in the most expensive street in Scotland rankings with Ann Street, Danube Street, Heriot Row and Northumberland Street all typical New Town addresses where average prices are well in excess of £1 million.

According to Bank of Scotland research 12 of Scotland's 20 most expensive streets are in Edinburgh, four in Glasgow and two in Aberdeen.

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Sophie is on top of the world Fundraising climb for Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity Sophie Brewster from Edinburgh has just got back to the capital after climbing Kilimanjaro.

Conquering the highest free standing mountain in the world is a big moment for anyone.

This was a bigger deal for Sophie as she really is someone who loves home and family - and for this challenge she left both her

Something to bark about

fiancé Toby Clutton and beloved dog Oakley behind.

Sophie (27) is a physio at The Royal Hospital for Sick Children and she gave us a flavour of the adventure. She said : "I think I was really lucky not to suffer from altitude sickness. Many of my group did with constant headaches, shortness of breath and occasional dizziness. I tried my best to follow what the guides advised.

"We were encouraged to drink as much liquid as possible and I think

Fiancé Toby met Sophie on her arrival at Edinburgh Airport

Sophie at the summit

NEWS 23

one day I drank around 7L of water which seemed to really help though did mean a lot more weight in my backpack.

"I also made sure I was eating as much as I could - the food they prepared for us on the mountain was amazing considering the conditions. I think for me it wasn’t necessarily the physical challenge but more the stepping outside of my comfort zone - going to a completely new country and getting used to the climate and culture, originally not knowing anyone and joining a group of strangers, camping for 7 nights in a tent on the side of the mountain (I’ve never really camped ) and

just generally being away from my family and friends. I’m a home bird!

"During the climb you see the terrain change from rainforest to moorland to alpine desert and then the snowy summit and so part of the challenge is being prepared for that too. The first day and night were quite hot but the temperature dropped from then on in and was well below freezing at the peak!

"Nights were long and cold - a lot of heat packs and hand warmers were used!”

Sophie has a fundraising page on Just Giving.

Local charity Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has been awarded a special grant from leading animal welfare charity, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

The funds granted by Battersea will support Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home’s work with cats and dogs, towards expanding three of their kennels.

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, Interim CEO at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Battersea for this grant that will help improve life for the thousands of dogs who need our help every year.

"We are expanding and enlarging three more of our kennels to provide suitable accommodation for bigger dogs or any that need more space.

"The dedicated kennel team at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home work tirelessly to care for and rehabilitate dogs while they wait to find their forever home, and any improvements the Home can make go a long way to enriching the lives their while they are with us.”

HUNGRY FOR TASTY SCIENCE TREATS?

Edinburgh Science Festival returns with a new batch of freshly baked GastroFest events.

Whether you’re a vegan or exploring the option, gluten free and wanting to know more, a sucker for cocktails, a lover of cheese or a whisky wunderkind, there are plenty of events to tickle your tastebuds. Samples of food, drink and fun, all included in your ticket price.

Don't miss nights out at the Science Festival with music, comedy and quizzes – it's science as you've never seen it before

The Edinburgh Reporter

24 FOOD

Cooking with Barry Barry Bryson of Cater Edinburgh is Edinburgh's leading private events chef. www.cateredinburgh.com Smoked Fish Ravioli, Lemon Butter Sauce with Caper and Toasted Hazelnuts This quick simple recipe can all be made, filled and served within an hour or two, the rich smoked fish filling is perfect for late winter/ early spring and the sauce is one you’ll go back to time and time again as it will work with pan-fried fish and poached egg dishes.

Ravioli filling: • 400g smoked fish trimmings (mackerel and trout but salmon and cod will also work) • Handful of freshly chopped dill • 2 egg yolks • Salt and pepper • 25g crème fraiche • One beaten egg to brush with later Pasta: • 400g 00 Flour • 4 free range eggs

• Tablespoon olive oil Sauce: • 250g unsalted butter in small cubes • 2 finely chopped shallots • 50ml white wine vinegar • 100ml white wine • Juice of one lemon Garnish: • 50g toasted chopped hazelnuts • Zest of one lemon • Finely chopped sage or basil • 25g capers Method: On a clean kitchen surface sieve flour onto the bench. Make a well in the middle and crack eggs into the well. Add the olive oil. Use a palette knife to combine the wet into the dry. Once it’s flaky and drawn in, use your hands and knead for a good 10 minutes to strengthen the gluten. It it will work into a smooth pasta dough, wrap this in clingfilm and put in fridge for 30 minutes.

Next the smoked fish filling. Add all ingredients apart from the egg

yolks to a food processor and blitz into a thick paste. Gradually add the egg yolks and seasoning and place into a bowl. Cover and put in fridge. Take dough out. Using a rolling pin, ridge it out flat enough to start putting through the pasta roller, start at the thickest setting and roll into sheets. Reduce thickness each time to the thinnest. You now have long thin sheets.

On a lightly floured surface cut out 8cm discs with a pastry cutter.

Beat one egg in a small bowl. Put a neat tbsp of smoked fish filling into the centre of half of the discs and brush around the clean edges with egg yolk, now using the other half of pasta discs press neatly over the top and secure tight in the egg mixed edges to seal, trim discs with 7cm pastry cutter to get a clean edge. Lay them out flat - pop them in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up or the fridge while making the sauce.

In a saucepan add the shallots, white wine and white wine vinegar and bring to a gentle simmer, reduce by two thirds then strain the shallots out and return the reduced liquor to the pan with a touch of seasoning. Gradually whisk in your butter cubes and it

will thicken nicely and go glossy yellow. Keep adding the butter bar a few cubes and put to one side.

Bring a large pan of salted water to boil and add ravioli. Simmer gently for 5-6 minutes.

Assemble the dish by whisking in the last few cubes of butter in the sauce, a good dash of lemon juice and pour it into warmed pasta bowls. Remove ravioli from the water, pat dry and then place 5-6 ravioli per portion on top of the

sauce and garnish with capers, lemon zest, chopped nuts and any nice green garnish you have to hand.

Chef Barry Bryson

Currying New Town flavours and whisky wisdom

by Juliet Lawrence Wilson Home economics lessons at my school were rather uninspiring affairs, leading me to be an early adopter of the Keith Floyd ‘chuck it in and down a glass of vino’ cooking style. However there’s a lot to be said for some proper tuition and Fiona Burrell, Founder and Principal of the Edinburgh New Town Cookery School, is just the woman to whip a more careless chef into shape.

Kindly, but one fears a no nonsense teacher, Fiona is celebrating the ten year anniversary of her impressive York Place establishment. Offering both fun amateur day courses and a six month professional course, the school can be a place for serious food lovers or a fun day out. Previous students include the owners of East Pizzas and 12 Triangles Bakery.

I was invited with a bunch of Edinburgh’s finest food writers for a lesson in cooking Panaeng Chicken Curry. Although my stove mates’ curries all came out different shades of cream to caramel, they tasted equally fabulous.

The ten year anniversary events programme is online entcs.co.uk If, like me, you bemoan Edinburgh’s Christmas and Festival celebrations as too big and brash and would like to see your cultural events a little more charming, thank you very much, then the Burns and Beyond Festival is the right thing for you.

The Culture Trail was an absolute steal at £25 a ticket which admitted you to multiple events within a stone’s throw from each other. I was invited to the Johnnie Walker tasting at Merchants Hall and although it was a swift half hour, tasting four whiskies, it was

made informative and entertaining by our host, brand ambassador, Nigel Robertson. Continually comparing characteristics from four Johnnie Walker labels to rubbing Double Black whisky into our hands to release the aroma

of bonfire, it really was a fun experience.

With these kinds of events and Diageo investing £150 million in a fabulous visitor centre in the former Fraser's deparment store,

there are exciting times ahead. So often people declare they don’t like whisky yet have only ever tried one. Like gin, whisky is a broad church, and not just for Sundays either.

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FOOD 25

Juliet's Food Diary

To mark the end of Half Term holidays I took my wee avocado addict with me for brunch at The Hideout Cafe on the tram work deserted Constitution Street.

Why it’s named Hideout is anyone’s guess as it’s so graced with massive windows it’s the last place one would choose to hole up.

The quality of toast, eggs, avo and bacon was superb, as was the coffee and freshly squeezed juices. I particularly enjoyed the retro music and admired their cassette tape collection, not just a gimmick either - the dulcet tones of Matt Monro were indeed from a tape.

Some of the staff are too young to remember such a geriatric form of music so I wonder if the relationship between cassette and pencil is part of their induction training?

If everyone else hates the tram extension they must be doing cartwheels in Newhaven.

The choice of eateries here is impressive but many of them, like the newly opened Pier Brasserie

are vast, so hopefully ‘bums on seats’ will be aplenty with a more elegant form of public transport when the tram gets here eventually.

New owner Mark Patonyi began his career in the F1 Grand Prix paddock catering team, providing food and hospitality to VIP guests across the globe. In 13 years in Scotland he has been restaurant manager at Martin Wishart, general manager at Steak and has now opened his first solo venture, Pier Brasserie.

On opening night it was clear to see he’s brought more than a touch of glamour to the proceedings. The restaurant is sophisticated and cosy with welcome hints of drama. Judging by the canapés and the live steak searing demo, there’s a lot to be proud of in the kitchen. Featuring outdoor dining in the summer and private all year round, this may be an audacious venture but given Mark's wealth of experience, I'm confident, a big success.

One of the most interesting suppliers on schop.co is seabuckthornscotland.com.

Founder and forager in chief, Kirstie Campbell, first came across this super-berry during a UN logistics mission to assist with the 2010 floods in Pakistan.

On her return to Scotland she discovered our overlooked but abundant native berries offer many health benefits. Selling both pure seabuckthorn juice and a ‘Buck Russian’ featuring ginger

and beet sugar, Kirstie has found mixologists to be very enthusiastic about this tart but vibrant ingredient. Visit Panda & Sons and Nauticus in Leith to get your health and booze kicks in one. https://www.pierbrasserie.com/

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The Edinburgh Reporter

26 FEATURE

Meet Zandra Rhodes & David Sassoon 19 April | Dovecot Studios | 14:00-15:30 Join designers Dame Zandra Rhodes and David Sassoon in conversation with Dovecot Director Celia Joicey about their fabulous careers in fashion.

A rare opportunity to meet two

of Britain’s most innovative and entertaining fashion designers, hear about their life and work from the ‘Golden Age’ of British couture and the 1960s boutique to today’s fast-paced world of fashion, and designing for everyone from Princess Diana to Freddie Mercury.

Tickets from £20 (+booking fee)

Zandra Rhodes is coming to Edinburgh

March Crossword

1

2

3

4

5

Edinburgh Collected

Rain, rain, rain during a very wet spring. I love the colours of Edinburgh as seen from the best seat on a Lothian bus. Contributor : starburst Edinburgh Collected is an online community photo archive managed by Edinburgh Libraries. You can add your own memories to help preserve the city’s history for the future.

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

STR8TS Easy

6

3 4

8 9 7

8

9 10

11

9 8

14

15

6 17

18

21

22

25

19

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4 5 3

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8 1

5 6

1 6

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4

2

Tough

5 2 6

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SUDOKU

8 8 7

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number 1 to 9 can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. 2 1 4 Each compartment must form a straight 6 4 5 a set of numbers with no gaps but it can be 4 5 in any order, eg [7,6,9,8]. Clues in black cells 4 3 6 2 remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight.

3 5 2 1 Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ 2 1 3 are formed.

2 5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

6 7

7

2 2 7

8

3 8

5 6 3 4

© 2020 Syndicated Puzzles

Crossword by David Albury Answers on page 28

Down 1. Short abstract about my busier farm... (5, 7) 2. ...involving lots of paper about mares (5) 3. " Our best ", he claimed about French Exchange (3, 6) 4. Concerned with carbon mixed in cargo (7) 5. Gives recognition to last use (7) 6. Bit-player in the next Rank production (5) 7. Put lions into natural

surroundings (8) 10. Does such a person go out on a limb to join section of an organisation ? (6, 6) 14. Cute sons of member of nobility (8) 16. Her actors form a large musical group (9) 18. Censure behaviour of poor ref (7) 19. One who goes on steadily might prod Del into action (7) 22. High official in the line of fire, eventually (5) 24. Grips loose branch (5)

© 2020 Syndicated Puzzles

Across 1. Baronet's huts destroyed in conflagration (5, 2, 5) 8. I tear around, feeling angry (5) 9. I get lean, preparing jelly-like substance (8) 11. Adorn with ornaments made of stone (7) 12. Part played in Rep about hunter (7) 13. Cruel form of open sore (5) 15. A discount for the guard ? (9) 17. Use pram to kill small rodents...(9) 20. ...or feline church uses to seize one... (5) 21. ...or part art played in killing a large rodent (3-4) 23. Eve sore about arrangement to superintend (7) 25. Do I stare at this heavenly body ? (8) 26. Broth causes one to palpitate (5) 27. Warning colour about darned forger (3, 3, 6)

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org for Sudoku and www.str8ts.com for Str8ts.

If you like Str8ts and other puzzles, check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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FEATURE 27

Diving into Edinburgh Leisure

The Meadows Tennis

We asked June Peebles, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure to tell us a bit more about the organisation she leads.

“Many of you will be familiar with our venues, but there’s a lack of understanding by some about who and what we are.

“Many people refer to us as the ‘Council gyms’ but we’ve operated as a separate organisation for 21 years. Yes, the Council are our main funder, helping us to offer a range of services to the people of Edinburgh, to be active and stay active, but the majority of our income comes from our customers and partnerships with other organisations including the NHS, Macmillan and Baillie Gifford.

“Very few of the public know that Edinburgh Leisure is a charity, meaning that all the income we receive and any surplus is used to keep Edinburgh active. We’re so much more than our venues, offering a range of services for the people of all ages and stages to be active.

Share your memories and photos A celebration is being planned at the courts on The Meadows to mark 100 years since the number of tennis courts were increased from eight to 16, creating the biggest venue for the sport in Scottish parks,. This is a statistic

“The media has reported on the risk of venue closures as a result of reductions to our funding from the Council. I would like to reassure you that no venue closures are being proposed in the 2020/21 budget we are preparing for our Board.

“For those of you who use and value Edinburgh Leisure’s services,

June Peebles CEO of Edinburgh Leisure

Mother’s Day Guide

A concert ticket could be the right thing for your music lover.

Edinburgh Summer Sessions includes Sir Tom Jones, Travis McFly, Simple Minds, Lionel Richie and more. With Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop, a ticket to a concert in West Princes Street Gardens could be the ideal gift.

The Ivy on the Square is offering a limited edition dessert The Tulipa with lunch. This is a white chocolate mousse with raspberries, meringue, petals and a warm chocolate sauce, looking as good as it tastes. And if you take your mother to lunch there then every mum will get a gift from The Ivy team.

Afternoon tea at Fingal, Alexandra Dock, EH6 7DX Invigorate your taste buds on board Edinburgh’s luxury floating hotel, Fingal, this Mother’s Day. This luxury boat offers a worldclass foodie destination on Edinburgh’s vibrant waterfront, with all the glamour and style of a superyacht but with an air

thank you and I hope that you continue to use us as your support is so important. And for those that haven’t, come and give us a try.

We have a lot to offer, including: a warm welcome and support and advice to help you enjoy moving with us.

"And, remember – moving is good for us all.”

of old-world Art Deco elegance.

Served in The Lighthouse Bar, Fingal’s afternoon tea sweet treats include lime and coconut verrine; pistachio and white chocolate macaron; and Valrhona Caramelia chocolate tart. Afternoon tea can also be gifted in the form of a voucher to use later in the year and nautical-themed cocktails and overnight stay packages are available, too. Served daily from 12.00pm-4.00pm. Prices start

at £40 per person for a standard afternoon tea, or £50 per person for a Champagne Afternoon Tea, including a glass (125ml) of Moët & Chandon Champagne.

Celebrate over brunch, lunch or afternoon tea at The Kitchen, Restoration Yard.

Take the chance to celebrate in style over Mother’s Day brunch, lunch or Afternoon Tea at The Kitchen, the light-filled restaurant set in an 18th century courtyard, with its panoramic views over the estate and historic Orangerie.

The Kitchen’s menus are filled with lots of tasty, locally sourced ingredients and wine match.

Perhaps pick her up a luxurious Afternoon Tea voucher as her Mother’s Day gift. Afternoon Tea at Restoration Yard is £18.00 per person or add a glass of Prosecco for £5.50 (£24 for a bottle). www. restorationyard.com You can go for Mother's Day Afternoon Tea at Grassmarket Community Project between noon and 4.00pm. Tickets are on Eventbrite.

And if all of this is just a bit too much then have a look at what Poundland can offer. Remember it's on Princes Street.

that still stands.

Organisers are on the lookout for photographs and any other memories which can be sent by email to Edinburgh Leisure alexharkins@edinburghleisure. co.uk

Edinburgh G&S Society - Patience The Edinburgh Gilbert and Sullivan Society (EDGAS) are performing "Patience" in the King's Theatre from 17 to 21 March 2020.

After the five star success of The Mikado, EDGAS are return to the King’s Theatre with Patience, Gilbert & Sullivan’s witty masterpiece about the Aesthetic movement of the 1880s.

With willowy youths, sighing maidens, hearty milkmaids and burly officers galore, it tells the story of two rival poets and the superficiality of the women who blindingly adore them.

The Edinburgh Gilbert & Sullivan Society is a Scottish charity dedicated to the performance and promotion of the works of Sir W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan.

Formed in 1924 as an

appreciation society, EDGAS began annual public performances in 1946 and this is now their main activity.

They also perform concerts ranging from orchestral singalongs of the operas to smaller concert party visits to a variety of venues, such as churches and nursing homes.

For over 20 years they have been invited by Seafarers UK Scotland to sing in its annual Usher Hall concert with the Band of H.M. Royal Marines.

They would love to hear from anyone who would like to join the Edinburggh society as a singer/performer, or even just as a member keen to support their aims and activities.

28 PHOTO OF THE MONTH

The Edinburgh Reporter

Walter McGillivray took this month's photo. He said : "I was walking along London Road Last Spring and I couldn't miss the mass of spring flowers covering the gardens from Easter Road to Leith Walk."

Edinburgh Sketcher Mark, The Edinburgh Sketcher is running more workshops than ever in 2020 at various sites around the city including the city centre, the New Town and Leith.

Mark will teach you his tips and techniques for sketching quickly on the go. One such approach is painting directly in watercolours as seen in this sketch of The Shore

in Leith.

Book online via his website below and you could soon be capturing the world around you in ink and watercolours. https://edinburghsketcher.com/ sketching-workshops/

Want your photo featured here?

Email your photo to editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk

Crossword Answers

Across: 1 Burnt to ashes, 8 Irate, 9 Gelatine, 11 Festoon, 12 Trapper, 13 Ulcer, 15 Custodian, 17 Mousetrap, 20 Catch, 21 Rat-trap, 23 Oversee, 25 Asteroid, 26 Throb, 27 Red for danger.

Down: 1 Brief summary, 2 Reams, 3 The bourse, 4 Organic, 5 Salutes, 6 Extra, 7 Unspoilt, 10 Branch member, 14 Countess, 16 Orchestra, 18 Reproof, 19 Plodder, 22 Reeve, 24 Sprig.

Garden Bistro Soon there will be a new place for you to have a coffee or just a little more. The Garden Bistro in Saughton Park will open at the end of March. They will feature local, fresh and seasonal produce.

The bistro is part of CEC Catering Group - and no that is not the council it is Cost Effective Catering with three decades of catering experience behind them.

Picking up litter Get involved with a clean up. If you have noticed litter in your area - or litter disappearing in your area, then it is possibly one of the active litter pick groups who do such great work.

There is bound to be a clean up going on in your neighbourhood.

Here are just some that we found.

2 March 2020 Spring Clean Up Restalrig Railway Path 2 March 2020 The Meadows Spring Clean 4 March 2020 Lochrin Belle at Edinburgh Quay by Re-union Canal Boats 8 March 2020 Hawthornvale Path Spring Clean up

30 March 2020 Friends of Pilrig Park at 11.00am 31 March 2020 Corstorphine Hill at noon Walled Garden Track EH12 6UR Hosted by Corstorphine Climate Action 30 March 9.00am Big Spring Clean St Katharine’s Park 24 March 2020 11.00am Hawthornvale Path - Leithers Don’t Litter 23 March 2020 1.30pm Magdalene Glen Spring Clean Up 10 March 2020 2.00pm Eco Larder’s Beach Clean at Cramond

A little more news in brief.....

Some snippets for you From 23 March the cost of sending a letter increased. The price of a first class stamp goes up by 6p to 76p. A second class stamp rises to 65p. The Royal Mail said that the increases are due to ‘a challenging business environment’.

If you are out driving in the city centre then be aware that Cowgate is to remain closed to traffic each Friday and Saturday evening from 10.00pm to 5.00am following a decision to continue the Traffic Restriction Order already in place.

No traffic can enter Cowgate from Guthrie Street or Candlemaker Row. Any drivers who breach the temporary restriction will get a £50 fixed penalty notice from police.

Girl Guiding Colinton are looking for a new leader for 193B Colinton Guides. The person would join the existing team of adult volunteers, one of whom is stepping down in June after many years of service.

They would love to hear from anyone with experience in Girl Guiding. This is an established unit with around 30 Guides.

They meet on Tuesdays between 7.30pm and 9.00pm.

Spokes Spring public meeting is on Monday 23 March.

More and more people are fighting for safer conditions to get around by bike – for environment and climate reasons, for health, and to promote towns and cities not dominated by vehicles.

The public meeting and Spokes new factsheet will outline the many and varied stories of people doing just that – and how we can all follow their example.

A wide range of people involved in different ways in local bike campaigning will speak, followed by a one-hour Q/A and panel discussion chaired by Spokes member Cllr Scott Arthur. www.spokes.org.uk A new initiative by Edinburgh Printmakers is attempting to reinvigorate the High Street. EP Spaces takes temporary spaces and transforms unused shops and office spaces into creative hubs.

The project matches artists and community groups for a monthly £50 fee with low cost spaces in cities across Scotland. The spaces are available to graduates, charities and art festivals www.edinburghprintmakers. co.uk

Easter holiday entertainment with activities, workshops and theatre for scientists of all ages.

T CITY TARRE CEN es Match Safety

The Edinburgh Reporter

30 SPORT

Cast ahead with WoL permits

Craig reels longest fish

by Nigel Duncan Permits for the Water of Leith will soon be distributed to nine outlets and fishing is free on the water, fondly named a silver thread in a ribbon of green, but you do need a permit to fish from April 1 to September 30 (both dates inclusive).

Permits will be available at Molly’s Coffee Shop in Juniper Green, Post Offices at Balerno, Colinton and Currie, plus the Water of Leith Visitor Centre at 24 Lanark Road, EH14 1TQ. Orvis of 19 Hope Street EH2 4EL, Edinburgh Angling Centre at Unit E, Granton Retail Park, 65 West Harbour Road, Granton EH5 1PW and Gamefish, 4 Howe Street, EH3 6TD also carry permits along with City of Edinburgh Council, Forestry and Natural Heritage, Hermitage of Braid, 69a Braid Road, EH10 6JF. Distribution centres will be asked to display a poster indicating that permits are available.

Nearly 500 permits were distributed last season with the Water of Leith Visitor Centre being the most popular pick up point.

by Nigel Duncan Craig Ogilvie made the long journey to Norfolk for the Joc Goudie International Beach Masters, but it proved worthwhile.

The North Berwick-based angler, who recently won the Bass Rock Shore Angling League’s winter series, claimed a third and fourth place in his zones.

And the East Lothian joiner finished eighth overall in the prestige event which featured several members of the English sea fishing team.

Craig’s biggest fish was a 38cm whiting – believed to be the longest fish on day one - and he fished two beaches, Kelling and Salthouse which are five miles apart. His great friend, Barry McEwan also landed a 38cm on the first day and a 57cm dogfish on the second, tying with another angler who won the event. There was, however, no prize for the longest fish.

Competitiors were all supplied with black lugworm, live lugworm and blueys to use as bait.

Winds topped 40mph but, thankfully, they were from the shore side which aided casting.

Craig said: “It was my debut in the event and this is a huge competition with top anglers from the UK.

“I’ll be back next year and hope to do better now I know more about the venue.”

He was not alone in make the seven-hour trip to windswept Kelling Beach.

Dale McCallum (Port Seton) claimed a first in his zone on day two of the weekend event fished in tough conditions. He finished 22nd overall while Cameron Cunningham (Port Seton) finished 34th in the event which attracted around 80 competitors.

Barry McEwan from Port Seton, the winner of the Bass Rock Summer League, finished 38th overall.

Meanwhile, names are coming in quickly for the Bellhaven Beach Open on Sunday, April 12.

This is a pegged and zoned match with up to 80 anglers with an entry fee of £10 (adults). Juniors, who must be accompanies by an adult at all times, free.

Registration is from 8am to 9am with fishing from 10am to 2pm and this is a catch, measure and release format with a bottom limit of 18cm for flat fish and 20cm for round.

Youngsters measure all their fish and the match is pre-booking only by contacting Craig on 07840 770 643 or Barry on 0781 392 4555.

Tickets are free and guests will also be able to enjoy a Steak & Ale pie with the choice of either a Caledonian Coast to Coast IPA or Strongbow Cloudy Apple Cider for £5.50.

To reserve your space visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ yo-tells-live-podcast-eventwith-hosts-of-the-terracetickets-95220112921

The fishery is managed by the Fishery Officers on behalf of and in partnership with The City of Edinburgh Council and officers are volunteers.

They patrol the river regularly to check permits and offer helpful advice to anglers. They all carry badges of authorisation.

James Stewart, treasurer, said permits are essential to ensure that anglers know the rules and comply with them.

He added: “This helps to maintain the long term sustainability of the fishery.

“The river is no longer stocked with trout and we rely on anglers to uphold and promote the catch and return policy.

“There is no fishing for any species out-with the season.”

All fish must be returned and barbless hooks must be used at all times Permits are non-transferable and must be carried at all times and produced on request.

It is fly fishing from Balerno to Bogs Bridge in the Dells and from

Bogs Bridge to Leith it is fly or bait fishing. Spinning and fixed line fishing is prohibited.

Mr Stewart, who has been a Fishery Officer for more than three decades, said discarded line and tackle and all rubbish created by anglers should be removed from the river banks.

Wet and flies size 14/18 with lines of 3lb breaking strain are recommended.

So, if you are tying for the opening of the season then popular dry patterns include Adams, Grey Duster, Olive Quill, Rough Olive, and Klinkhammer.

Popular wet flies on the river are Black Spider, Greenwels Spider, Coch-y-Bondoh, Pheasant Tail Nymph and Gold- Ribbed Hare's Ear Nymph.

Stealth and caution are necessary, said Mr Stewart, and, in midsummer, the fishing can be best at dusk or after.

As regards bait fishing maggots or small worms are best, fishing with a 3lb breaking strain and small hook.

PHOTO Nigel Duncan

YOTEL scores football first hosting live podcast of The Terrace YOTEL Edinburgh is ensuring Scottish sports fans hit the back of the net with their football knowledge as it plays host to one of the country's leading podcasts.

The innovative hotel team is inviting fans of the game to join them for a live episode of top Scottish football podcast, The Terrace on Thursday 5 March 2020.

The podcast will be recorded in the space created downstairs in the new hotel.

The event is the latest in YOTEL Edinburgh’s series of free events, aptly named YO-TELLs,

that showcase a variety of the smartest, interesting and most fun thinkers in Scotland.

Hosted by radio and sports presenter, Barrie Wilkins, the event will give sports fans the opportunity to hear insights from the leading sports pundits as they share their take on Scotland’s current football landscape.

Craig Fowler, host of The Terrace, said: “We first launched The Terrace in 2007 and since then we’ve seen fans turning more and more to podcasts as a way of keeping up to date with the latest news from the pitch.

“We’re always looking for ways we can think out of the box with The Terrace and hosting a live discussion in the stunning Imaginex events space at YOTEL Edinburgh seemed like a great way to do something a bit different and engage with our listeners.”

Stuart Douglas, General Manager at YOTEL Edinburgh, said: “Edinburgh is a city full of football lovers and we’re thrilled to be hosting a panel discussion with the team behind The Terrace who are some of the most influential voices in the Scottish football scene.”

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Scottish Women’s Football livestreaming Scottish women’s football will be shown on BBC Scotland this month. There will be two matches live streamed starting with Heart of Midlothian v Celtic on 15 March and then Celtic v Spartans on 22 March.

SWF Chair, Vivienne MacLaren, said: “We are really pleased to have secured this partnership with BBC Sport Scotland. Interest in our game is at its highest point ever, across the globe, and we’re capitalising on this by having one game available to watch live every Sunday. This is an exciting development for the game that will be a huge boost to everyone involved.”

Tom Connor, BBC Scotland

Head of Sport, said: ‘We’re looking forward to teaming up with Scottish Women’s Football to bring top flight live action each week for our audiences. Women’s football is growing rapidly in Scotland and we’re delighted to be able to add SWF matches to our portfolio of live sport.’

Speaking about the season ahead, Vivienne added: “We are delighted with the progress that has been made within the game ahead of the 2020 season. I strongly believe that this will be the most competitive SWPL 1 season ever and today’s news only adds further excitement.”

Murray fans the flames Ian Murray MP has said fan ownership of football clubs is a model for the future.

Mr Murray is the former chair of the Foundation of Hearts, which saved Heart of Midlothian FC from extinction.

He wrote the book ‘This is Our Story: How the Fans Kept Their Hearts Beating’ which has been shortlisted against David Cameron’s autobiography in this year’s Parliamentary Book Awards.

He also played a lead role in efforts to wrestle the club out of the hands of the former owners and prevent liquidation that would have seen his beloved club disappear forever.

The Foundation of Hearts has

Syrian Families dive into swimming lessons Up to 50 Syrian families are getting in the swim of things through a community project at The Royal High Community Sports Hub in west Edinburgh.

Funding from the GO LIVE! Get

Active Fund, a £250,000 Scottish Government initiative which supports more than 90 community sports projects, is helping inactive women and families learn how to swim and promote integration in

Help the Monarchs

by Nigel Duncan Edinburgh Monarchs are looking to fill a number of voluntary posts for the coming season.

Bosses say that the posts offer the chance to enjoy another side of the sport, often getting closer to the riders.

The spokesman added: “You will join an enthusiastic and talented team who produce every aspect of the Friday evening action at

Armadale as well as working behind the scenes during the week to keep the cogs turning.”

Positions on offer include track electrician, commercial manager, journalist/content creator, back-up live updated, videographer, video editor, half cut draw ticket seller and back-up first aid team member.

If you are interested contact info@edinburghmonarchs.co.uk

Get involved

a gentle hour long walk with refreshments provided. They say they are a friendly and welcoming group. Register by email kim@elgt. org.uk or telephone 0131 445 4025

Join a Walking Group at Allermuir Health Centre. They meet every Tuesday at 10.00am to have

the area.

The Welcoming, a charity that delivers educational and social integration programmes across Edinburgh to migrants, refugees and minority ethnic communities,

and Edinburgh Leisure, identified a group of 50 local women and their families as looking to take part in swimming in a women-only environment in the area.

The programme is claimed to have had hugely positive results beyond teaching participants the basics of swimming with 90% of participants saying they met new people, while 80% said they had improved their English as a result of the initiative. Two thirds of participants said the programme had helped to improve their confidence, allowing them to integrate better into their community.

The Welcoming’s health and wellbeing coordinator, Louise Turner, said: "These safe and supportive swim sessions provide the women and children with a space to access culturally appropriate leisure facilities, form friendships and practice their English."

As part of the project's funding, five young female volunteers from local schools and sports clubs were put through their level 1 swim teacher and National Pool

Hibs go greener Tackling climate change at Easter Road

by John Hislop Hibs have pledged to be The Greenest Club in Scotland supporting action on climate change in a move welcomed by The Scottish Government.

Hibs will be the first Scottish club to participate in the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework.

This promotes action in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, which was signed by almost 200 countries in 2015.

The club already buys 100 per cent of the power it uses from renewable sources, and its waste

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theedinburghreporter.co.uk

management recycling efforts are ranked first in Scotland and third in British football behind Forest Green and Manchester United.

The club will work with Circular Edinburgh and will also support The City of Edinburgh Council’s aim of becoming carbon neutral in the next decade Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change Roseanna Cunningham applauded the news and said: “I welcome Hibernian FC’s pledge to be a leader in helping to combat climate change.

"The club is setting an excellent example, and as our national game, football with its unique

now paid over the final instalment for a loan payment made back in 2014 to save the club, and the majority shareholding of the club is due to be handed over to the Foundation in April this year in a historic move.

Other clubs across the UK have adopted similar co-operative models to varying degrees.

Wimbledon is fully owned by a supporters’ trust, Exeter City Supporters' Trust has a majority share in the club, and the York City Supporters' Trust owns 25 per cent of the club.

Labour pledged to review fan participation in football governance at all levels before the General Election.

Lifeguard Qualifications (NPLQs) to enable them to deliver and supervise the weekly sessions, as well as ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.

In coordination with local Active Schools coordinator Matthew McLachlan, the young volunteers have since been given the opportunity to get involved in other paid work through the hub, which is based in the Royal High School, and Edinburgh Leisure.

Matthew said: “We’re delighted with the success of the young people from the local clubs who volunteered to deliver the project. It has benefited each in a number of ways, from gaining swim teaching experience to paid working opportunities and also providing worthwhile knowledge that has been applied in university applications and interviews.”

Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, which distributes the GO LIVE! Get Active Fund, said: “Projects like the one at the Royal High Community Sport Hub show that the benefits of sport go beyond the positive impact it has on health and fitness, sport can play a key role in bringing communities together.”

reach and impact has a great opportunity to demonstrate leadership on this crucial issue.

I hope other football clubs will follow Hibs’ lead.”

Leeann Dempster, Hibernian FC Chief Executive, said: “We are looking at all aspects of our organisation with a view to improving what we do right across the spectrum from transport to energy to waste.

"We will do what we can for our own business, and we want to work in partnerships with other organisations large and small who want to make a real difference in this area.”

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