Issuu

Paws together

Dream mission

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Rehoming support for dog owners from charity

Decorator dedicates spare time to bedroom makeovers

Mapping moves

Tech whizz’s AI-powered planning tool goes nationwide

Paint the town

Mash it up

Modern art collection on show for the nation

Tasting at Tatties at new Union Street restaurant

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EDINBURGH’S FREE LOCAL NEWSPAPER...A CAPITAL READ FROM START TO FINISH

October 2026

PHOTO Neil Hanna

TELLING TALES

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN WITH ITS BIGGEST GO LOCAL PROGRAMME ever, The Scottish Storytelling Festival is back for another year, running from 21 to 31 October. Proof, if it were needed, that culture continues year-round in Edinburgh. The theme is Bird and Beast and our photo shows Ruth Kirkpatrick, David Hughes and Festival Director, Daniel Abercrombie, at the launch of this year’s programme.

The 10 day event will feature Scotland’s epic stories of St Columba and Ossian retold with a wide range of leading storytellers. With the Scottish Storytelling Centre celebrating its twentieth anniversary, and the National Theatre of Scotland also celebrating 20 years, the 37th festival programme promises more than a few special moments. Culture, Democracy and the Stateless Nation on 23 October will be a special in-conversation with former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon,

and theatre critic, Joyce McMillan. Italians Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi will share their tale of Leonardo Da Vinci, and Bologna’s Fraternal Compagnia APS, will present their reinterpretation of Dedalus and Icarus. Tony Bonning and Allison Galbraith will share tales of a fiery Clydesdale and a recounting of Tony’s epic adventure travelling with his horse, Chief across Scotland. Daniel Abercrombie, Scottish International Storytelling Festival Director, said: “We are

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delighted to present this special moment in Scotland’s storytelling calendar which showcases this wonderful oral tradition across the whole of Scotland. The Scottish International Storytelling Festival is a place where creative opportunities are nurtured and where creative risks can be taken, where the tradition is safeguarded and the contemporary is encouraged.” sisf.org.uk

EDITORIAL AND NEWS

Planning News CRAIGIEHALL

Editorial I AM NOW SETTLING INTO AUTUMN, needing more layers than just a month ago when sitting in the Book Festival garden working in the sun. Halloween is on the horizon with all its ghoulish delights. We have little space here to list all the activities in Edinburgh – but there will be an online guide soon. The time seems right with cooler days and darker nights to think about potatoes – and Ailidh Forlan has written all about the humble spud and the new restaurant which she found - Tatties on Union Street on pages 16-17. She loved it, she said: “The potatoes come from Albert Bartlett, and the form they take changes constantly, roughed-up Jerseys one night, mash the next, whatever best suits what’s sitting beside them. Of course, being Scottish, we’ll adore every incarnation.” Ailidh has also been sipping cocktails in the new Understory and you can read all about that on page 11. And on 18-19 there is more reason than ever to get your coat on and get out and about in the capital. Lìam has set out the various shows to see in the capital during October. But he also records a podcast – often with some big stars of stage and screen. Do check it out on YouTube – the new home for podcasts. It is called Theatre Pod and is homed on Lìam’s Must See Theatre channel. YourGP have tips for sleeping in the Autumn and making the most of the extra hour as the clocks change at the end of October. Yes, I should put that phone away more often, but news junkies have problems with that. At last, Causey Development Trust has been awarded the £2 million it will need to redevelop the area between Nicolson Street and Buccleuch Street. There really will be dancing in the streets when the work is done. The aim is to make the area – currently a tarmac triangle – much nicer for everyone. The campaign to get this one Edinburgh street changed has been running for 19 years… We hope you enjoy reading the paper this month.

Phyllis Stephen Editor

About us...

Craigiehall House

There are plans lodged by K&S Mir Ltd to convert the former barracks accommodation at Craigiehall House in South Queensferry to a hotel with comprehensive alterations and refurbishment as well as construction of an associated event venue within a walled garden. The doocot will be restored. This is a Category A listed building and is of “considerable heritage interest” since the Ministry of Defence vacated the site in 2019. During the intervening period the house has been empty and there is considerable damage from neglect and vandalism. The applicant says that the principal aim is to bring significant heritage assets back into viable use.

NEW TOWN

An application has been made by JWGS Associates on behalf of the owner to erect a new Mews building on land 18 metres east of 8 Albany Street Lane. This new building will have three homes in it with a garage behind.

PRINCES STREET

At Easyhotel on Princes Street, the owners have submitted an application to replace the signage with one illuminated sign.

CRIGHTON PLACE

A vacant betting shop at 21-22 Crighton Place in Edinburgh could become a new adult gaming centre if the planning application is granted. Merkur Slots Ltd have applied for the change of use along with permission for signage.

ROYAL OBSERVATORY

An application has been lodged to repair the

Life in the prefabs This is a photo of the ARCON (Architectural Consultants) Prefabs on Calder Terrace just opposite a small cul de sac a few yards from its junction with Calder Drive in Sighthill in 1955. The photo was shared by Stuart Laidlaw on Edinburgh Collected, Mr Laidlaw has created two scrapbooks and added a wide selection of images of life in the prefabs. These homes were the first of two styles built on the estate immediately after the Second World War. The houses were built of corrugated asbestos sheets including the roof, and according to a leaflet which Stuart has provided they were “built not to last”, intended as a cheap solution for the post-war demand for housing. Quite wrong - they lasted for decades! www.edinburghcollected.org

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WE PRINT 6,000 copies of The Edinburgh Reporter which are then distributed through a wide network of businesses and public buildings including some of the Edinburgh libraries. If you would like your library to stock copies then please tell the council staff. The digital version of the paper is also widely read and our readership is estimated at around 25,000. There are copies stocked in Westfield St James Quarter Guest Services desk which is on Level 1, and you will find copies at all branches of Farmer Autocare, charity LifeCare on Cheyne Street, Coffee Angels, Caffè Nero on Queensferry Road, Cloudberry on Whitehouse Road and both major hospitals. If you know of a suitable location where our papers could be placed then please do let us know. And if you would like to have your own copy delivered to you each month then you may subscribe below using the QR code.

GET IN TOUCH TODAY! Editor: Phyllis Stephen Designer: Tammy Kerr Photos: Martin P McAdam

stonework at the Crawford Building at the Royal Observatory in Blackford. The work will include repointing, crack stitching, stone indent repairs, replacement of failed sealants and corroded metal fixings, removal of redundant services and cleaning of algae, staining and other deposits. The “sound original fabrice will be retained” amid repairs to the historic building.

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Officer injured after high-speed police chase with e-bike rider

By ROSS CHALMERS

A POLICE officer was injured after a theft and high-speed police chase on a busy Edinburgh street – the latest in a string of e-bike incidents in the capital. A masked thug was seen racing down Leith Walk in Edinburgh on a high-powered electric motorcycle at around 10.30pm on Saturday 5 September, with police in hot pursuit. The man threw a bag of stolen goods onto the street as he went past the Boundary Bar pub, halfway down the Walk, in an apparent attempt to drop some weight. Bartenders say the chase then proceeded on foot, and one officer appears to have been injured in the pursuit, with photos showing blood streaming down his arm in the aftermath. Following the chase, several police cars were seen patrolling the area while officers recovered hundreds of pounds’ worth of stolen goods from the bag. Police later confirmed the incident was in response to a theft on Picardy Place, and one officer had to be treated in hospital following an injury. Ross Patterson, 27, an eyewitness who works at the Boundary Bar, said the whole ordeal was over in a flash. “A masked youth chucked a massive bag of stolen stuff at the police – who were chasing him,” he said. “Then the police went sprinting off after him. I saw about six police cars circling around the area looking for him afterwards.” Another bartender said the man may have fallen from the bike, prompting the police to give chase on foot. Ross added that he was impressed by the

Police were called to Leith Walk

Haul of stolen goods

police response: “There was an abundant police presence after the incident, and they were very quick to give chase and secure the area.” The plastic bag was full of razors, portable chargers, a burner phone, and a toothbrush – totalling hundreds of pounds’ worth of goods. A Police Scotland spokesperson said:

“Around 10.30pm on Saturday, 5 September, 2026, officers received a report of theft at a premises on Picardy Place, Edinburgh. “Enquiries are ongoing.” This comes days after a string of e-bike- and electric motorcycle-related crime in the capital. Just days ago, a gang on e-bikes broke into a house and stole a vehicle in the Joppa area

Pete Irvine

of Edinburgh, after threatening several others. In the early hours of 1 September, a balaclava-clad gang threatened a security guard with hammers and smashed up several cars at Pollock Halls in the south of the capital. In June, a hit-and-run involving three Surron-style electric motorbikes left a woman in hospital, sparking calls for tougher action on “reckless” e-bike riders in Edinburgh.

Crossing the Sound

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

PETER IRVINE has written a brilliant new book – and it is only when the last page closes that the title becomes a more obvious play on words, focusing as it does on the music business. This is the first foray into fiction for the mastermind behind Scotland The Best, who was also the creator of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Although Irvine wrote most of the text in 1988, he only revisited it during Covid when life slowed just enough. The text was written first in

longhand, and Pete says the book is in the genre of autofiction, drawing on his busy creative life but with a “completely fictional arrangement”. In particular the main protagonist, Thom, is not him, particularly as he explained “I don’t know if he’s that likeable”. The book is set on Raasay and on the mainland and is a “sharp seductive novel about talent, ambition, wining and the price to pay”. Out now from Luath Press Ltd

NEWS

Recruitment drive underway for community buyout of Leith church A campaign to “save” a former parish church in Leith after the building was put up for sale is entering the final stages. Leith St Andrew’s Church was put up for sale in 2024, and a local campaign was immediately launched to purchase the B-listed building in a community buyout. The trust set up to handle the buyout hopes to reimagine the church as a “dynamic community wellbeing, activity, and performance space”. While fundraising has raised vital supporting funds, the group now needs local members to strengthen their application for the main piece of acquisition capital: a grant from the Scottish Land Fund. To strengthen their application, they have begun an ambitious recruitment drive to sign up 800 people in Leith as members. Only Leithers residents within a small boundary drawn by campaigners can become official ordinary members. The area includes the foot of Leith Walk, Duke Street, the bottom of Easter Road, parts of Lochend Road, Leith Rugby Club, and parts of Restalrig. Some have pointed out that the “community area” of around 4,000 people is actually smaller than the old parish area. While the trust is currently negotiating a voluntary sale as the “preferred bidder” and does not need to trigger statutory Community

Right to Buy rights immediately, they have structured their community area to align with these guidelines. Under Scottish Community Right to Buy legislation, a community must secure petition signatures from 10% of people in their defined area to register interest, and any eventual statutory ballot requires at least a 50% voter turnout. By defining their community boundary as a smaller area of 4,000 people, the trust has made these potential legal thresholds far more manageable. More immediately, it also makes the target of recruiting 20% of the local community as members (around 800 people) to satisfy the Scottish Land Fund’s funding criteria highly achievable. If the Leith St Andrew’s Trust had defined their area as the entirety of Leith, with a population of more than 50,000, they would have faced the mammoth task of securing 10,000 local members to satisfy funders. The campaign is currently focused on securing the primary piece of the puzzle – vital capital funding from the Scottish Land Fund to purchase the building. Nina Ballantyne, trustee of Leith St. Andrew’s Trust, said: “We’ve had feedback from Scottish Land Fund that our application would be strengthened by increasing our membership numbers, and the last chance for updating our application is next week. “We had always planned to launch a bit of a

Leith St Andrew’s Church

Image: Martin P McAdam

By ROSS CHALMERS

recruitment drive, but we wanted to make membership as accessible as possible so had to wait until our AGM to drop the price from £8 to £1.” “However, having finally started with the membership drive, we’ve made great progress, having gone from just 47 members last weekend to 350 today! “We’re feeling optimistic but want to keep pushing in the time left, as without the Scottish Land Fund grant, the journey to community ownership of the building is a lot more difficult.”

SHERIFF COURT NEWS By ALEXANDER LAWRIE EVE SHAW has appeared in court on petition following an incident in which two council workers were taken to hospital. The 31 year-old faced an single allegation of culpable and reckless conduct, during a private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. Shaw - whose address was only given as Edinburgh – made no plea and the case was committed for further examination. She was granted bail and her next court appearance is still to be confirmed. The court hearing comes several weeks after two workmen were taken to hospital after they had started feeling unwell while removing “unauthorised stickers” from a lamppost on the capital’s Morningside Road. The pair had allegedly come into contact with a substance while working on the lamp post but after being checked over by medics

they were discharged following the incident on 20 August. Police and the fire service both attended the scene and the area was closed off to the public while testing took place. A TEENAGER who was part of a masked mob who attacked police and members of the public during a violent Bonfire Night riot in Edinburgh in 2024, has been jailed. Jamie Hogg was first caught launching fireworks, bricks and poles at officers, public service busses and into the entrance of a block of flats narrowly missing civilians on 31 October. Hogg, 19, also aimed pyrotechnics at constables who were positioned behind a police cordon as they battled to contain the 20 strong gang who were causing havoc in the Moredun area of the capital. The teen then took part in a second night of violence when he

and co-accused Kevin Lankiewicz formed part of a gang that attacked a local supermarket and erected a bonfire in the middle of a road. The masked thugs also blocked the road off by dragging fencing from a nearby building site. The pair were seen throwing bricks, rocks and explosives at shop windows, members of the public and police officers on 5 November 2024. 22-year-old Lankiewicz, who has since moved to Glasgow, also culpably and recklessly threw rocks and pyrotechnics at police officers at the city’s Craigour Green. Hogg, from Whitson, Edinburgh, and Lankiewicz were later identified following a large scale police investigation into the nights of mass disorder that struck the city. They both admitted the offences on indictment when appearing at

Edinburgh Sheriff Court in August and returned to the dock for sentencing. Hogg was jailed for 18 months for his involvement in the two nights of rioting. Lankiewicz was sentenced to a 12 month restriction of liberty order where he will have to wear an electronic tag and stay within his home between 7pm and 5am. A CARER mistreated a disabled woman so severely she was left starving and suffered hallucinations due to the lack of medication provided. Melanie Wishart failed to supply the woman with her prescribed medication and did not feed her properly while employed to look after her at an address in Edinburgh in 2019. She also stole cash, medication and cigarettes from the 63-yearold woman, who has since passed away.

Wishart, 53, also stole £80 in cash from a second elderly service user, aged 68 at the time, while employed as a carer at the woman’s home in December 2014. Wishart has avoided a custodial sentence following an appearance at Edinburgh Sherif Court but will now be banned from working with vulnerable adults in the future, She pleaded guilty to two theft offences and one of wilfully neglecting a woman when she appeared in the dock at the capital court last month. She returned for sentencing when her lawyer Addison Baker said her client had been experiencing difficulties with alcohol at the time and she no longer works as a carer. Wishart, of Granton, Edinburgh, was sentenced to a community payback order as a direct alternative to custody where she will have to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

Capital funding approved to transform The Causey

bring people together. “The Causey also shows exactly how Visitor Levy investment can work for Edinburgh. It will improve everyday life for residents while creating a greener, safer and more welcoming experience for visitors moving through the city’s Southside and festival footprint. “We are enormously grateful to everyone who has kept faith with this project, including our volunteers, local residents and businesses, councillors from across the political spectrum, council officers and the many partner organisations who have helped us reach this point. This investment means that, after nearly two decades, the community’s full vision can finally be delivered.” There are two parts to the funding - £462,000 of Visitor Levy funding for key infrastructure improvements at the Causey Triangle and £1.4 million for the next phase which will extend the new look and structure towards Nicolson Street, improving connectivity and the wider public realm. Local campaigners have held “sit oots” and other creative events over the years building support for the campaign to transform the

Image: Martin P McAdam

AFTER A 19 YEAR LONG CAMPAIGN, permanent change is coming to a space in the city called The Causey with funding from the Visitor Levy. The capital funding approved by the council will allow the area to be transformed into a “greener, safer and more welcoming place” for everyone in Edinburgh. The changes will include wider pavements, traffic-calming measures, segregated cycling facilities and a new accessible public space. The first tranche of £300,000 was approved earlier this year and now a balance of around £1.4 million will follow soon. This is welcome news to the campaigners who followed the lead set by the late Alison Blamire who first called the space “The Causey” when she had an office overlooking the space which she knew could be improved upon. The name comes from the “cassies” or “causeys” - the cobbled setts on the street, probably quarried nearby at Salisbury Crags. Sarah Drummond, Chair of Causey Development Trust, said: “This is a transformational moment for The Causey and the culmination of 19 years of extraordinary determination by local people. “What began with local architect Alison Blamire’s inspired transformation of a traffic island into a tropical island can now become the permanent, welcoming and people-focused space that the community has always known was possible. “This is a powerful example of what community-led action can achieve. Local people have shaped the vision, sustained it through years of setbacks and continued to demonstrate how this neglected space could

Image: Martin P McAdam

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

A possible vision designed by architects Ironside Farrar

space permanently. But the 2007 transformation by Alison Blamire into a tropical island is the one that many people remember best. The space will be designed to support informal gatherings and community-led

activity, as well as potential outdoor performances, pop-up markets, art installations and exhibitions. New public-realm and active travel infrastructure will create a safer, more attractive environment for people walking, wheeling and cycling.

Rehoming support for dog owners By RAHEEMAT OLABODE

Nala was supported through Homestay

Dog owners who are faced with the difficult decision of giving up their pets are being offered a way to avoid kennels while they find a new home for their pets. Dogs Trust West Calder is offering its Homestay service, allowing dogs to remain with their current owners while the charity searches for a suitable family. The service comes as Dogs Trust says it has received more than 28,000 enquiries from owners seeking help to rehome their dogs in the UK so far this year. Jake Flatman, head of rehoming at Dogs Trust, said: “We know that giving up a

dog is an incredibly difficult decision, but we want people to call us the minute they need help, rather than when they reach the point of crisis.” Homestay is aimed at owners who can continue caring for their dog, but need support finding a suitable home, following a pre-intake assessment. Trials found that dogs using the service were rehomed in an average of 14 days, compared with an average stay of 58.5 days in Dogs Trust rehoming centres. More than 700 dogs have been supported through Homestay nationally this year. One of them is Nala, a Bernese Mountain Dog-Collie cross who was reserved by a

family within three days. She had struggled when left alone in her previous home and showed signs of stress in a kennel environment. Dogs Trust recommended Homestay because of her separation-related behaviours and difficulty coping in kennels, allowing her to remain at home while the team searched for an adopter. After two successful meetings, Nala moved in with her new family and has now been living with them for three months. Dogs Trust says keeping dogs in their existing homes can reduce stress while freeing up kennel space for other animals needing its care.

Owners facing difficulties with their dogs are being urged to contact the charity early, with behavioural support also available where challenges are contributing to decisions about rehoming. Flatman added: “The earlier people get in touch, the more we can do to understand their situation and help find the most suitable support. “If behaviour challenges are contributing to the decision, our behaviour services – like our Behaviour Support Line – may be able to help dogs and their owners stay together. “But, if giving up a dog is the right choice, we’ll support them every step of the way and find them the best option to rehome their dog.”

NEWS

Kind-hearted Scots decorator offers free makeovers to children’s bedrooms By RYAN NIXON

A Livingston-based painter and decorator is dedicating his spare time and money to transforming children’s bedrooms for families going through hard times. Mikey McKinnon, 36, owner of McKinnon Decorators, has run his self-funded Mission Makeovers project for the past few years, working with local charities to identify families who could use a helping hand. The idea traces back to 2020, when an elderly man in his area needed help after a botched kitchen job by another tradesman left him out of pocket just before Christmas. McKinnon stepped in and completed the work for free. A couple of years later, after coming across a memory of the job on social media, he decided he wanted to find a way to give back again. Early attempts to run social media giveaways were undermined by people trying to game the system, so McKinnon shifted his approach, instead searching local news for families in difficult circumstances. His first bedroom project was for a young boy, done privately at the family’s request. That experience evolved into the more structured Mission Makeovers initiative in 2024, when McKinnon contacted a local foodbank he’d previously worked with and asked about families who might need support. He explained that he made a point of wanting the work to help a child, because he believes every child deserves a bedroom that feels like a safe space for their imagination.

He was connected with a family whose son felt too embarrassed by his room to invite friends over, and gave the space a full refresh. His work has since grown beyond private homes. In April this year, McKinnon spent five evenings after school hours redecorating a support room at Corstorphine Primary School used by children with additional needs, finishing the space with a large woodland mural. His latest project, completed in the past few days, came about after he reached out to charities supporting families in need. Broxburn-based River Kids put him in touch with a family whose two young daughters, aged 8 and 9, shared a bedroom that badly needed updating, including a worn and dirty carpet. McKinnon let the girls pick their own colours and themes – one chose a space design, the other Lilo & Stitch – and decorated the room to match, adding glow-in-the-dark stickers and character artwork. He also emailed carpet suppliers across Edinburgh and West Lothian until Kristoffersen Carpets and Flooring agreed to donate new flooring, while Valspar Trade once again supplied the paint free of charge, as they have for previous projects. McKinnon called it one of the most touching makeovers he’s taken on, and said seeing the girls walk into their new room and light up with happiness is exactly why he keeps doing this work. As he put it, “it’s nice to be nice.” Alongside his charitable projects, McKinnon was recently named in the ‘highly recommended’ category for Scotland’s Best

Some of Mikey’s handiwork

Painting and Decorating Company at the Scottish Home Improvement Awards in Glasgow on 18 September, an accolade he picked up in the previous two years as well.

Looking ahead, he hopes to bring other tradespeople on board with Mission Makeovers so the initiative can expand beyond decorating.

Jali Film Weekender at Filmhouse

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

THE JALI FILM WEEKENDER, showcasing the very best of African cinema, both from the continent itself and African filmmakers all over the world, returns to the Filmhouse for its second year from 28 October to 1 November. Featuring 36 new premieres, the weekender will open with a screening of Damilola Orimogunje’s Dear Ajayi, the first ever in Scotland. The film, set in 90s Nigeria, explores the relationship between two sisters – one a devout Christian, the other a free spirit and aspiring musician – as they search to find their respective freedoms. It originally premiered at September’s Venice Film Festival as part of the Venice Days strand, which has previously championed the indie filmmaking of future giants like Denis Villeneuve and the Safdie brothers. The festival will also present Spotlight: Geração 80,

My Semba

shining a light on the acclaimed Angolan film collective and production company of the same

and Q&As to follow. Auguste Bernard Kouemo Yanghu’s feature debut, House of the Wind, will close the festival on the 1 November, after its world premiere at Venice. A tender tale of Cameroonian camaraderie, it follows 80-year-old Josette as she lives alone, all her adult children having moved to the West. An empty nester in every sense of the word, she finds a surprising and welcome comfort in a burgeoning bond with her young neighbour, Sarah. With many more films screening over the course of the weekender, including Sheffield DocFest and Sundance alums, the festival is sure to be a joyous celebration of contemporary African cinema, with creatives harnessing their spirit and their passion wherever they are in the world.

name. The collective will be in attendance for the UK premiere of My Semba, ‘a rap-fuelled, gritty and

vibrant city symphony of Luanda, Angola’ that melds documentary with manifesto, with further screenings

More information, including the full 2026 programme, is available on the festival website - www.jalicollective. co.uk/jali-film-weekender

Lifecare marks 85 years of giving older people a share in community life By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

A LOCAL CHARITY is celebrating 85 years at the heart of communities - with demand for its services growing by more than 30% across the last 12 months. Established in September 1941, LifeCare has spent more than eight decades at the heart of Edinburgh communities, supporting older people for longer than the NHS has existed. Originally established as the Edinburgh Old People’s Welfare Council by three pioneering local women their aim was simple – to give older people a “fuller share in community life”. Its Cheyne Street centre, still home to the charity today, was opened by the Queen Mother in 1975. While 85 years is a remarkable milestone, the charity says its work is more important than ever as we face the challenges that an ageing population will bring, with dementia, multiple health conditions, and low income. Today, LifeCare provides two registered day clubs and registered

New Edinburgh Airport CEO Mark Johnston

Airport leader appointed as £500m investment takes off

By RYAN NIXON

Celebrating 85 years with a party

outreach, Help at Home, Meals on Wheels and a growing programme of free wellbeing activities for unpaid carers. Its Community Hub and Café on Cheyne Street is a much-loved accessible meeting place, where people can enjoy a coffee or lunch, meet others and take part in activities. Last year, LifeCare supported 1,140 older people and unpaid carers – a 32% increase on the previous year – with more than 75% of LifeCare’s clients living alone the charity’s services often provide the only in-person contact.

Sarah van Putten, Chief Executive of LifeCare, said: “One person recently described us as ‘my happy place’ and another as their “Lifeline” – and after 85 years, that is exactly the kind of difference we want to keep making. As we look ahead to the next 85 years, we look forward to welcoming new faces who are keen to support us and help us meet the growing need for our work.” LifeCare has launched Friends for Life(Care), inviting local people to become part of its next chapter. Full details are on the charity’s website.

modernise the airport over the next five years. Planned works include additional gates and aircraft stands, an enlarged check-in hall and departure lounge, new international arrivals facilities, and expanded retail and dining areas increasing the terminal’s overall footprint by 60%. New baggage pick-up and reclaim areas are also part of the scheme, which will incorporate low-carbon infrastructure as the airport works to cut its carbon footprint. The airport currently operates 240 routes to over 160 destinations with 39 airlines, and generated £2.7bn in Gross Value Added while supporting almost 44,000 jobs in the Scottish economy last year. Edinburgh Airport is jointly owned by Vinci Airports (50.01%) and Global Infrastructure Partners (49.99%), part of BlackRock.

Edinburgh Airport has appointed Mark Johnston as its new Chief Executive, just as the airport embarks on its largest-ever capital investment programme. In a planned move, Gordon Dewar steps down after holding the CEO position for 14 years. Johnston returns to his home city after serving as Chief Operating Officer at London Gatwick Airport. He steps into the role as Dewar departs after 14 years at the helm, during which passenger numbers at Edinburgh grew from 9 million in 2012 to nearly 17 million in 2025 an 85% increase. The leadership change coincides with a £500m investment programme announced by Edinburgh Airport’s majority owner, VINCI Airports, to expand and

Health and wellbeing with HOW WAS YOUR NIGHT? DID YOU GET YOUR EIGHT HOURS? with October embracing Autumn, now is a great time to focus on sleep. The clocks go back at the end of the month – we will all be gifted an extra hour of sleep. But for many, this gift doesn’t feel quite so generous…let’s dig a little deeper and look at what quality sleep really means. Sleep is an essential requirement for overall wellbeing. Without it, our bodies struggle to function making other aspects of health more challenging to achieve. Quality sleep promotes healing, bolsters immunity, balances our hunger hormones and allows for sharper focus and mental agility. It also decreases the risk of developing long-term conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Research suggests that the optimum time of uninterrupted sleep is 7 to 9 hours per night. We now know that most people go

through 90-minute cycles up to 6 times per night – these are important to understand, as we can literally ‘hack’ our sleep by aiming to set an alarm to wake us after one of these cycles. Within these cycles, we transition through deep and dreaming sleep. Dreaming sleep allows us to organise our thoughts, whilst deep sleep encourages restoration and regeneration of the brain and other tissues. So, how do we achieve this? It mainly comes down to sleep hygiene: MAINTAIN A ROUTINE workday or not, aim to go to bed and rise at the same time. Humans are creatures of habit and habits make us tick! BUILD IN WIND-DOWN no caffeine after 6pm, warm bath/ shower, no screens for at least 2 hours before bed. Think books and a milky drink instead.

KEEP YOUR BEDROOM COOL AND DARK perhaps try the German practice of ‘luften’ – meaning to ‘air out’. This is practised during the winter months, often after waking, and just before bed. Luften involves opening widows for 5 to 10 minutes to let freshly oxygenated, dry air in – removing stale, damp air. This both nourishes our brains and reduces the mould-forming humidity in our homes. Win win. Try it out for yourself! Sometimes poor sleep persists despite best efforts. Our doctors at YourGP are adept at identifying treatable issues and can walk you through lifestyle changes which can make a huge difference! We offer health assessments and investigations to get you on your way. Sweet Dreams! www.your.gp Available 7 days. Here for you. YourGP.

NEWS

The Edinburgh native mapping Scotland’s planning applications

Harry Williams

By ROSS CHALMERS AN EDINBURGH tech whizz has taken his AI-powered planning tool, built to assess developments locally, nationwide. Harry Williams, 26, has spent more than a year building City Scope, a tool which he hopes can keep people better informed about planning and provide an X-Ray into what lies behind the paperwork. The tool automatically scrapes planning applications in the capital, generates a summary, and places them on a map of the city. City Scope also rates developments on a scale of 1 to 10 by how much ‘impact on the local area’ the application would have based on the information available. This makes sifting through short-term lets, changes of use, and major developments far more accessible than on the city’s planning portal. Williams has now decided to expand his website nationwide in a move that he hopes will make planning in Scotland more transparent. Users can now navigate the website to view planning applications in all 32 Scottish local authority areas. Searches can also be filtered by expected impact, development category, date, and

specific street or postcode. Mr Williams said he “originally started City Scope to make planning applications in Edinburgh easier to find, understand and review. “I think it’s important people have transparency around the developments being proposed in their area. “Over time, I’ve been able to expand the project out to cover all of Scotland, and I hope the rest of Scotland can see the benefits of the project too.” He added: “The idea is that people can use it to find planning applications around them and understand what’s being proposed, without needing to know much about the planning process. “I want to make it easier for people to keep up with what’s happening locally, whether that’s something on their own street or a larger development in their area.” With planning news in the spotlight nationally, amid a major backlash to large-scale data centre developments and a pause to such schemes, Williams said he hopes his site can make major applications more digestible. “I also want to surface more nationally significant projects, including things like data centres,” he explained. “I think communities should have

Olé! Time for Spanish films

By PHYLLIS STEPHEN

THE EDINBURGH SPANISH FILM FESTIVAL opens with two films, and the programme which follows will be packed with a further 16 Spanish language films, most of which are premieres. The theme for the festival is the role of the community and opening with two films, Band Together by Daniel Sánchez Arévalo and Lust for Life by El Langui, is intended to show that shared experiences enrich life, and supporting others means achieving more. Daniel Sánchez Arévalo will be in

attendance for both Band Together screenings on Friday 2 October (18:15) and Saturday 3 October (16:00) at VUE Omni Centre. Lust for Life producer Rodrigo Espinel will also present and discuss his documentary on Thursday 1 October (18:15) at Edinburgh Filmhouse. Sánchez Arévalo and Espinel will also join a roundtable about the current state of Spanish cinema on Saturday 3 October (11:30) at the French Institute of Scotland. The festival runs from 1 October to 5 November. edinburghspanishfilmfestival.com

Band Together

transparency around these larger projects too and be able to easily understand what’s being proposed.” While Williams said this marks a “major chapter” in the development of City Scope, he cautioned that there is still a “great deal” of work to do engaging communities in planning news. He said: “I plan on working more on the community aspects of the platform over the next few months, to really allow local communities to understand and discuss what’s

happening around them. “I think there is still a great deal of work to do here, especially for communities that lack something like a community council or somewhere to have those discussions.” Starting his career with a modern apprenticeship, Williams has worked at estate agents Rettie since the pandemic, progressing from the company’s reception and portfolio administration teams to its automation and systems team.

Inverleith aiming for European pétanque glory By OLIVIA THOMAS

INVERLEITH PÉTANQUE CLUB will fly the flag for Scotland at the 28th European Cup in France next month. The Edinburgh outfit locked horns with Newtongrange, Perth and Fochabers in the EuroCup qualifiers at Carnoustie last month for the right to represent Scotland at the major continental tournament, which brings together top club teams from across Europe. After a tense two days of competition at Auld Alliance Park, Inverleith came out top in a head-to-head decider against Fochabers and will now prepare to travel to Sin-LeNoble, Douai in the north of France where they will take on the cream of Europe from 5-8 November. Shena Whelan, Treasurer of Inverleith, said: “The IPC team, and the whole of Inverleith Pétanque Club, are extremely proud to have

the opportunity to be representing Scotland again at the European Cup for Clubs (‘Eurocup’) in Douai, France in November. “It was a hard-fought win against formidable clubs we consider to be our friends. Thanks must go to Carnoustie Pétanque Club for hosting and supporting us all over two long days of play in the Eurocup qualifier.” Scottish Pétanque Association (SPA) president, David Moxham, said: “Congratulations to Inverleith, who now carry Scotland’s colours to France in November. “It was a terrific weekend of competition and it was fitting it all came down the final two games. “Beyond the competition itself, the weekend showed clubs coming together to support national pétanque. “Carnoustie Pétanque Club provided a warm welcome, with players, coaches and

Pétanque is big in Inverleith

officials well looked after throughout. The club’s home on the old curling rink at Maule Street – the Auld Alliance Park – provided a distinctive setting for the qualifier, and the SPA thanks everyone at Carnoustie who gave their time and effort to hosting the event.” Colin Sinclair, Carnoustie Pétanque Club chairperson, said it was a real honour to be asked to host this important event in the SPA calendar. “Our committee and members got enthusiastically involved in helping plan the event, and in return were treated to a very

high standard of play that we hope to aspire to,” he said. “We were very grateful to both Carnoustie Gala committee and Carnoustie Bowling Club for the use of equipment and facilities. The event ran very smoothly and positive feedback was received from both the SPA and the clubs involved.” Anyone interested in trying out Pétanque, can contact the club for more details by emailing secretary@inverleithpetanque.co.uk

Take your partners at the Corn Exchange

By OLIVIA THOMAS

Support to help you feel warmer at home

THE NEW musical CEILIDH will premiere at Pitlochry Town Hall in October, and will come to Edinburgh’s Corn Exchange from 4 to 9 January in the New Year. The reason this production is staged in a large dance hall becomes obvious. Audiences are invited to take their partners and step into one of the country’s oldest and best loved traditions. It is a gathering of songs, stories and dances.

Led by a lively caller, the audience will be swept up in a whirlwind of music and memories. As the music builds, a story of family unfolds. Why this night’s ceilidh matters is key. The heart-pounding experience is created by Scott Gilmour and Claire McKenzie and directed by Tony Award winner Sam Pinkleton. There is space for audience members either dancing or watching on. The band is already playing – find a hand to hold!

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Company of the North American Premiere of CEILIDH

Image: Matthew Murphy

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NEWS

THE OLD EDINBURGH CLUB 2 October

1 October In 1560, the Dean of Guild accounts recorded the sale of the jewels of the Collegiate Kirk of St Giles for well over £850. And in 1568, the Bannatyne Manuscript, the most extensive collection of early Scottish poetry in existence, was published by George Bannatyne, an Edinburgh merchant. Also in 1763, the contract to construct the North Bridge was signed. Finally in 1788, Deacon William Brodie was executed for theft as deicted in the painting above by Alexander Hay Ritchie. Even more, in 1824, Walter Scott welcomed the first students to the Edinburgh Academy.

In 1854, sociologist and town planner Patrick Geddes was born; he was responsible for transforming sections of Edinburgh’s Old Town, which had become slum areas; although the idea of slum clearance by knocking down houses was a popular one, Geddes preferred to work with existing buildings where possible, believing that knocking down poor housing simply transferred the problem to another, often worse, area.

Looking back in history with the local history society

19 October In 1687, Scotland’s first public hire sedan chairs became available in Edinburgh; the new fleet of six hire sedans were plain black with a covered roof and were an alternative form of transport to the horse and carriage; there were two sedan chair shelters, one in Riddles Court in the upper town and one in Tweedale Court for the lower town, which still exists (on the right-hand side coming though the archway). Edinburgh’s sedan chairs were unique in that the seat was at 45 degrees to the poles so when going up and down

a close or the High Street itself you were always sitting straight up. And in 1954, Kenneth Campbell Stott, Scottish stage, television, and film actor, was born in Edinburgh.

24 October In 1694, Alexander Monteith petitioned the council for a gift of bodies for medical dissection from among those who died in the Correction House and foundling babies who died upon the breast which the council duly granted. And in 1796, artist David Roberts was born at Duncan’s Land in Stockbridge, then a village near Edinburgh.

9 October In 1900, Alastair George Bell Sim, CBE, Scottish character actor, was born in Edinburgh. Finally in 1909, a Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) demonstration attracted thousands of suffragettes to the streets; the procession began at Bruntsfield and ended at Waverley Market by way of Lothian Road and Princes Street as seen in the photo on the right.

25 October In 1809, the Jubilee of the accession of King George III was celebrated with a series of ceremonies which included laying the foundations of King George III’s Bastion and Military Works to protect the docks, harbour, and the town of Leith. And in 1944, 4,156 prisoners of war were among the people on ships that docked in Leith; most had been taken prisoner during the fall of France and were destined for repatriation.

Compiled by Jerry Ozaniec, Membership Secretary the Old Edinburgh Club membership@oldedinburghclub.org.uk

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INTRODUCING UNDERSTORY: Edinburgh’s new West End five-star dive bar By AILIDH FORLAN

THE WEST END does a brisk trade as it is. Tram stops and office lunches, the run out to the airport, and those Scotland match days when Murrayfield empties and this corner of the city feels the benefit first. Understory, open on Rutland Street since 15 September, is a far more persuasive reason to stick around after dark. It takes its name from the layer of a forest that grows beneath the canopy, out of the light, where things quietly get on with it which is exactly what is happening under the pavement at 1a Rutland Street. Down a flight of stairs, in vaults beneath the Edwardian Rutland building, the room is all deep red panelling and maximalist flourish, with a ceiling gone gloriously feral with painted foliage. Lamps sit low on the tables, whisky barrels double as perches, and the bar back glows copper under a halo of glassware. Dive bars, traditionally, run on cheap measures, a jukebox and a neon sign or two. Understory keeps the unpretentious, sit-where-you-like ease of one and swaps everything else for drinks of genuine sophistication, made by a team who can tell you exactly why each element is in the glass. So don’t be misled by the sight of a tankard arriving with a bag of Scampi Fries at half past midnight - that is a show-stopping cocktail bottled and poured to look like a pint (more on that drink shortly!) Understory is in experienced hands. General manager, Sam Baxendale, has been prised away from Bramble - the World Top 50 bar - where he spent five years at the helm, and he arrives with more than two decades of Edinburgh service behind him, Monteiths and Bon Vivant included. The drinks come from James Grant, head of bars for the Rutland building at 27 years young, a finalist in a string of national cocktail competitions and the man responsible for a cocktail list built entirely around nostalgia. The debut chapter, Batch 01: Halcyon Days, draws on British childhood memories without being gimmicky. Think corner-shop sweetie jars and the warm fuzz

of a half-remembered summer, all pulled apart and rebuilt - nothing here is played for a cheap laugh. Every detail has its place, and there is no unnecessary dry ice or smoke bubble just because. Take the Marmalade Sandwich, a drink that began life as the simplest thing on the menu and ended up the most complicated. Five kilos of croissants are toasted to the edge of burnt, blitzed, then broken down with enzymes until the starch turns sweet and soluble. The solids become a marmalade foam, the liquid a croissant syrup. What arrives is a delicate thin-lipped tumbler of hazy amber under a thick, pale cap of foam, sitting as smugly as the head on a pint. The first sip is butter and toast, the second, sweet oranges and the gentle boozy hum of Diplomático, Nixta and Angostura underneath. It is a breakfast martini that has grown up, moved out and got an interesting job. They sold more than 500 in the first two nights. Trip to the Pub is the other showstopper and it’s the menu’s finest piece of juxtaposition. It arrives in its own bottle, labelled with a big red P where a certain Scottish lager would have its T, and you pour it yourself into a tankard with a base thick enough to double as a paperweight, loaded with one long, elegant spear of ice, with Scampi Fries alongside. Everything about the serve says half of lager and a packet of crisps. But in the glass: rum and white chocolate, mellowed with earthy oolong, and a frankly absurd amount of banana - not the foam banana sweet of every childhood pick ‘n’ mix, but the real fruit. Did you know you can juice a banana? Neither did I. The fruit is pulped with pectinase, an enzyme that unpicks the pectin holding it together, then spun in the centrifuge until what is left runs completely clear and tastes overwhelmingly of fresh banana. It should not work alongside a bag of Scampi Fries, undisputed champion of the pub snack shelf. And yet it does. Truly, this sh*t is bananas, in the best possible way. The rest you should go and sample for yourself;

perhaps a Cheeky Vimto or a Guinness-tini. Though if I’m allowed one more recommendation, the Lychee Martini is washed with Petits Filous, of all things, for a soft, yoghurty roundness that pulls the 90s straight out of the glass. One sip and you are back in the good old days, peeling the lid off a yoghurt pot at the kitchen table. The kitchen sends down small plates from Kyloe’s chef upstairs: beef tartare and caviar scooped onto salted crisps, barbecue corn ribs, and juicy golden-crumbed chicken tenders, served with a glass of champagne, because why on earth not. Upstairs in The Huxley, sketchbook open on the table, it becomes obvious where all this comes from. James did a fine art degree before hospitality claimed him for good, and drawing has stayed the engine of the whole operation. Every drink on the list starts life as a pencil sketch: the glass, the garnish, the colour, the joke, worked out on paper long before anything is weighed or spun. “Everything starts as a sketch. It’s how I get my ideas down,” he said. “It’s important to have a goal, otherwise you get sidetracked into what you can do and how you can do it, not necessarily why you’re doing it.”Those same drawings end up under your glass, printed as the bar’s coasters, so the thing you are drinking and the thing that first imagined it arrive together. It is a lovely touch, and a quietly confident one; most bars would rather

you never saw the working. Despite sitting within Signature Group, boasting a portfolio of more than twenty venues across Scotland, Understory wears the association lightly. The intention was to keep the freedom of an independent bar and pair it with the muscle of a group behind it, and on the evidence downstairs the balance has landed; the room, the list and the lab all feel like they belong to the people making them rather than to a template handed down from head office. It is a bold moment to open a bar in this city, and there is no sugarcoating that either. Fantastic independents are closing (Lucky Liquor being the most recent fallen soldier), margins are thinner than ever, and every one of these drinks carries hours of technique - enzymes, ferments, centrifuges, force carbonation, fat washing - before it reaches the pass. Understory has chosen not to make that the customer’s problem. “You could definitely charge far more,” said James, “but I want people to enjoy themselves. I don’t want cocktail culture to die because we out-price everything.” Nightcap and Uno Mas have long kept the small hours in safe hands on the other side of town, and the West End has been crying out for its own answer. Now it has one, serving until 1am through the week and 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, which means the natural progression of an evening no longer has to end in a tacky basement club with a sticky floor and chart music at a volume that kills the conversation. Here we have “just one more drink” that’s still a proper drink. Understory has my seal of approval, big time. Expect to find me down there long past my bedtime, perhaps even on a Tuesday night, teaspooning tonka bean sorbet out of a bougie Irn-Bru float with no intention of leaving. That’s another drink you must try. Understory, 1a Rutland Street, EH1 2AE. Open seven days, 4pm until 1am Sunday to Thursday, and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. understorybar.co.uk

Our Palm Houses have been protecting plants for over 150 years. Now, after careful restoration, they’re back. Open from 2 October. Tickets on sale now. Book online rbge.org.uk/palmhouses

WELCOME to a special place THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN EDINBURGH (RBGE) – The Botanics – is a place which is very special to everyone in the capital. This autumn the world-leading institution is marking a distinct moment in the Garden’s history with the opening of the newly redeveloped A-listed Palm Houses on 2 October. This is part of the Edinburgh Biomes programme, and is hailed as the most ambitious restoration scheme in the history of the Botanics. As well as plants to see, there is a new visitor experience with films and other multimedia and multisensory digital tours. And watch out for the ladybirds! Almost 1,000 ladybirds have been introduced in the Palm Houses to help protect the plants from any other insects. The oasis of calm in Inverleith has been completely refurbished with all 5,750 panes of glass replaced either with new ones, or created with bespoke templates. In the domes which tower over the Garden all of the glass has been laminated and the panes on the upright walls have been toughened to help resist weather damage from expected storms. Inside, the Palm Houses were emptied of more than 800 specimens before the restoration could begin, offering each one its own space to live and breathe. A noted specimen is the towering stone gate palm which stands more than eight metres tall. It is believed to be the tallest of its kind in cultivation outside China. A young sabal palm, the 10-year-old offshoot of one of the Garden’s oldest and most celebrated plants, the Sabal mexicana, estimated to be around 200 years old when it was felled in 2021, has been planted in the Palm Houses. Some of the specimens are endangered in the wild and were meticulously cared for during the construction phase.

But the most striking feature is that the Palm Houses are no longer split into temperate and tropical zones. The central partition was removed and the space is now one temperate climate zone. The original houses were built in 1834 and in 1858, and the Temperate Palm House was (and is) one of the tallest traditional Palm Houses in the world. In 1834 the Tropical Palm House was built for £1,500 but the most recent 21st century project cost considerably more – and took five years to complete. More than £10.6 million was raised from philanthropic fundraising and a separate public appeal which raised around £250,000. Professor Julia Knights, Regius Keeper at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “I am thrilled to be reopening the Palm Houses after five years of painstaking restoration with the support of the Scottish Government and our generous donors. “As we fight to tackle climate change and nature loss, the reopening of the Palm Houses is a globally significant moment for Scotland and the world. As well as celebrating our Living Collection of plants – including those endangered in the wild – this moment also reflects our work as Scotland’s global scientific centre of excellence in plant science, horticulture, education and conservation.” RBGE has a herbarium of more than three million specimens, and a living collection of 13,500 plant species. Tickets can be purchased on the website with allocated time slots regularly available throughout each day. Everyone who wishes to go and see the impressive new space is encouraged to book ahead online. rbge.org.uk/palm-houses

PROPERTY NEWS The team at A Flat In Town

10 things A Flat In Town has learned, after over 20 years of letting homes in Edinburgh After more than 20 years of letting homes across Edinburgh, A Flat In Town’s directors Sally Williams and Katrina Walker have seen a lot of changes in the private rented sector. We asked them for some advice to give landlords to get the best out of their lets. 1. Get the property properly ready “Don’t rush it.” It’s tempting to get a property advertised as quickly as possible. But getting the checks, certificates and safety requirements sorted (along with all the little maintenance jobs) before a tenancy can save time, money and hassle later.

Autumn is coming… a few things tenants should think about THE NIGHTS ARE DRAWING IN, the heating will soon be going back on and, before we know it, Edinburgh will be giving us its usual mixture of rain, wind and the occasional beautiful autumn day. As the seasons change, there are a few simple things tenants can do to help keep their home warm, dry and comfortable. Bathrooms and kitchens create lots of moisture, so use extractor fans and keep trickle vents open where you have them. It’s also worth keeping extractor fan covers clean so they can work effectively. If possible, avoid drying clothes on radiators, as this can add a lot of extra moisture to the air.

Keep an eye out for leaks

Check your heating

Don’t wait until the first really cold morning to discover you’re not quite sure how the thermostat works! It’s worth checking now that you know how to turn the heating on and that your radiators are working properly. If something doesn’t seem right, report it so there’s time to investigate it before winter really sets in.

Have a look outside

If you have a garden, balcony or access to a communal area, keep it reasonably tidy and

3. Furnished or unfurnished? “Think about who you’re trying to attract.” Adding furniture doesn’t automatically make a property more appealing. In some homes, good-quality furniture works brilliantly. In others, being unfurnished can attract tenants looking for a longer tenancy who want to bring their own things and make it their home. 4. Neutral isn’t always best “Don’t be afraid to stand out.” There’s an increasing trend for tenants to look for properties that feel like real homes. Boldly painted rooms and gorgeous wallpaper can sometimes boost your rent significantly if you get it right. Magnolia and ivory tones are definitely a thing of the past!

Keep the air moving

Notice a damp patch, dripping gutter or water appearing around a window? Report it sooner rather than later. Small problems are generally much easier to deal with before they become bigger ones.

2. It’s the little things that make a difference “Look at your property through a tenant’s eyes.” How’s the paintwork? Are the carpets clean? Is the garden tidy? You don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, a carpet shampoo or fixing a few niggling jobs can make a bigger difference than an expensive refurbishment.

make sure leaves aren’t blocking drains or creating slippery stairs or paths. Report any issues while there is still reasonable daylight and weather to address them.

Know who to contact

Make sure you know how to report a repair and who to contact if something goes wrong. If you’re not sure whether something needs reporting, always best to ask. A little bit of preparation now can make for a much more comfortable winter. And while tenants aren’t expected to be property experts, keeping an eye on things and reporting problems early can make a big difference.

5. Don’t automatically chase the maximum rent “The highest rent isn’t always the best result.” Look at the location, condition, presentation and current demand. A sensibly priced property can generate strong interest and give you a choice of tenants. Holding out for an extra £50 a month can sometimes cost considerably more if the property sits empty. 6. Encourage tenants to ask questions at viewings “Ask us anything!” How does the heating work? Where are the bins? What’s included? Who do you contact if something goes wrong? A viewing is the tenant’s opportunity to

work out whether the property is right for them, and for you to start establishing rapport. 7. Finding the right tenant isn’t just about finding any tenant “The first tenant that wants your property may not be the best tenant for the let.” A successful tenancy is about much more than simply getting the keys handed over. Finding someone who meets the necessary requirements and is likely to be happy in the property is important. 8. The tenancy doesn’t end when the keys are handed over “That’s when the real relationship begins.” Boilers stop working. Taps leak. Windows stick. Things happen! Being available, responding quickly, inspecting regularly and having good contractors on hand can make a huge difference. Clear communication keeps everyone informed and helps deal with problems efficiently. 9. Don’t be distracted by a bargain “Cheap can be a false economy.” Landlords need to keep an eye on costs, but buying the cheapest appliance isn’t always the most economical choice. Plenty break down just after the guarantee expires! A good-quality brand with a good reputation and available spare parts can be a much better investment over the life of a tenancy. 10. Listen to feedback “Listen to what your tenants are telling you. They’re the people actually living in the property, so they can give you really useful information.” Your tenant is living in the property every day and they’ll notice things you might not. Good feedback can help you spot small problems before they become bigger ones and make the property more comfortable for everyone. And the biggest piece of advice? “We love properties, but we love the people connected to them too. Good letting is really about communication, respect and a little bit of common sense.”

Modern art collection acquired by National Galleries Scotland on view MORE THAN 50 PAINTINGS and drawings collected over several years are now part of Scotland’s national art collection. National Galleries Scotland has acquired 58 works by Scottish and British artists, with more than 20 now on display at Modern One in Edinburgh. The collection includes works by William McCance, James Cowie, Edward Baird and William Crosbie, several of whom studied or taught at Scotland’s art schools in the early 20th century. Charlie Nairn, who assembled the collection, said: “It’s a delight to know that these paintings and drawings, which I’ve known for so many years are now being looked after by the National Galleries of Scotland for the benefit of the public.” The works were allocated to National Galleries Scotland through the HM Government Acceptance in Lieu scheme, which allows owners to transfer important works of art into public ownership instead of paying tax. The collection also includes works by British artists Cecil Collins and John Tunnard, who were associated with the Surrealist movement. National Galleries Scotland said the acquisition would help better represent modern Scottish artists in the national collection and highlight the role of Scotland’s art schools in the development of 20thcentury art.

Lucy Askew, head of Modern & Contemporary Art and chief curator at National Galleries Scotland, said: “This extraordinary gift to the people of Scotland significantly enhances how we can show and share the work of an important group of artists.” She added: “We are incredibly grateful to HM Government and to Charlie Nairn for enabling these wonderful works to join the national art collection here in Scotland where they can be enjoyed by visitors and contribute to further research into modern Scottish and British history of art.” Among the works on display is James Cowie’s The Reader, painted in the early 1920s and depicting his first wife, Nancy Buchanan. William Crosbie’s Design for Life (Cats Cradle), painted in 1944, is also included. The work depicts Crosbie balancing geometric forms suspended on strings, with the letters ‘J M’ referencing Surrealist painter Joan Miró. Dawn Airey, chair of Arts Council England, said: “Giving back to the public through Acceptance in Lieu is one of the most valuable offers that can be made to the nation.” She added: “With more than 50 culturally important works now secured for the public to enjoy, this is a lasting legacy that Charlie Nairn can be proud to have created.” The selection is now on display at National Galleries Scotland: Modern One and is free to visit.

Artworks by William McCance installed at Modern One, left to right: Drawing for Group from a Dream, 1928; Group from a Dream, 1928-30; Woman Resting (Agnes Miller Parker), 1924.

Still Life with Plaster Bust and Measuring Tape,1935, Alberto Morrocco.

Artworks on display at Modern One following landmark acquisition.

Images: Stuart Armitt

By RAHEEMAT OLABODE

www.nationalgalleries.org

A PERSONAL GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON AND FILMS AT FILMHOUSE THIS MONTH By ROD WHITE THERE’S A FILM THAT FILMHOUSE are about to show that has been (almost entirely) unavailable to cinemas for public screenings for a very long time, and then only shown in the ‘cut’ form in which it was originally released. By ‘unavailable’ I mean the film was never outright banned or anything like that, rather the company or individual that owns the rights to the work would not allow it to be licenced for public screening. Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange – which was withdrawn at the insistence of the director himself back in 1973 – is probably the best-known example of this phenomenon. The film in question has become the holy grail of films we can’t show. But not anymore, as we’re about to show (October 30) the glorious 4K restoration of the original uncut version of Ken Russell’s The Devils, released into cinemas for the very

first time, possibly for a limited period only. On top of all that, we’re delighted to have been invited – as (currently) one of only 3 sites in the UK and the only one outside London – to play the film from the brand new 35mm print struck by the BFI. Come and see for yourself what all the fuss was about back in 1971! New releases this month are set to include Alejandro G. Iñárittu’s post-Mission Impossible Tom Cruise-starring Digger; Facebook whistleblowers take centre stage in Aaron ‘West Wing’ Sorkin’s follow up to David Fincher’s The Social Network (written by Sorkin), The Social Reckoning; Paul Greengrass gets all muddy and magnificent in a historical drama set around the Peasant’s Revolt of 1381, The Uprising; and Pawel (Cold War) Pawlikowski’s Fatherland follows German author Thomas Mann’s return, from his new home in the US, with his daughter, to a postWorld War II Germany.

October is also the month of our Edinburgh Spanish Film Festival and there’s a predictably strong line up of previews for the now-annual BFI London Film Festival On Tour. Well, that covers about half of what we’ve got going on in October! Rod White is Film Programmer at Filmhouse.

Fatherland

The Devils Digger

FOOD AND DRINK

PLATE EXPECTATIONS

LET’S TALK TATTIES A 14-seat Union Street basement where the humble potato gets top billing

Jesse (kitchen assistant), Jun (chef proprietor), Poppy (lead front of house) & Ash (front of house & prep chef)

The intimate, glowing basement restaurant

Courgette risotto with basil and blanched radish leaves

Lost Shore Surf Resort

Braised lamb with red cabbage alongside cockles & squid risotto

By Ailidh Forlan

WITH A TITLE LIKE THIS, you’d be forgiven for thinking I’m about to address Edinburgh’s unprecedented baked potato boom. It would be a fair assumption that the city can’t seem to get enough of them. When SpudBros opened its first Scottish shop on Lothian Road this July, the queue snaked down the street, with at least one devotee bedding down on the pavement from 11pm the night before – for a jacket potato! Meanwhile, Old Town favourite Tempting Tattie boasts a daily lunchtime queue that would make a Fringe show envious. I’ll be the first to confess I don’t get it, albeit with real respect for the owners capitalising so brilliantly. Somewhere along the way, TikTok got its hands on the country’s most reliably cheap and gloriously unfussy dinner and turned it into a spectacle, complete with cheese pulls choreographed for the camera. This month’s column isn’t about any of that, it’s an account of my dinner on Friday 11th September. The tatties that have taken my fancy come in the form of a new 14-seat restaurant tucked down a flight of stone steps just off Broughton Street. Tatties quietly opened its doors on Tuesday 8th September, and here a side of potatoes treated with proper cheffy care will set you back just £3. I have hazy memories of sucking on a shisha pipe in this very spot in my early twenties, so it’s fair to say the room has grown up considerably (as, mercifully, have I). There’s no menu in a window to squint at, instead, the night’s dishes are chalked onto the steps themselves, so you descend past mushroom soup, chicken terrine, braised lamb and chocolate ganache – there’s a joke in here somewhere about a stairway to heaven. You pass the name on your way through the

door, scrawled in red on the whitewashed wall in what looks like a child’s hand. It belongs to the same school of deliberately untidy lettering that London’s Jolene made famous when it handed its logo design to a six-yearold, and which has since spread to menus, tote bags and coffee cups all over the world. It’s a look that says – relax, we’re not taking ourselves too seriously. That promise holds the moment you step inside. It’s a small, candlelit dining room of honey-toned wooden tables and spindlebacked chairs, and underfoot, cool terracotta tiles evoke an old-fashioned farmhouse kitchen or pantry. The whole thing feels less like a restaurant fit-out and more like being ushered into someone’s home; which is precisely the point. Three tables for two can be pushed together, while a communal table seats eight with chairs on all four sides. It’s walk-in only, and with Jun still finding his feet the opening hours are evolving too, a Saturday lunch service has already joined the evening sittings, with more to follow as word gets out. The man at the stove is chef-owner Wonjun Jang, who goes by Jun, and in an open kitchen this size there’s nowhere to hide, everything is cooked to order in full view of nosy parkers like me. This is Jun’s first restaurant. He cut his teeth in Paris, where Chef Esu Lee (of Jip and Orson) gave him his first paid job as a cook at the now-closed Mokoloco, before moving to Edinburgh in 2025 for stints at Timberyard and Martin Wishart. Still, don’t arrive expecting fine dining, Jun is adamant this isn’t it. His style veers towards refined home cooking, though admittedly it’s a good deal more elevated than anything coming out of my own kitchen. Every afternoon at half four, Jun sits down

CROSSWORD

By Aldhelm

6 ACROSS is a place in Edinburgh. 44

Culinary capers in the capital with Kerry Teakle 44

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each dish against the soft protein, and so we keep going back for more mouthfuls. Jun’s freshly baked country bread (£5) has a lovely crust and an open, chewy crumb, but it arrives on its own and is crying out for whipped butter. When we mention it, Jun explains it’s designed for scarpetta, the Italian habit of wiping the plate clean with bread, and it does that job beautifully. Still, we’d have liked the option, and to his credit he’s already planning to add it. Desserts are £6 apiece. Strawberry ice cream is silky smooth and a knockout, layered with intense strawberry granita and crowned with a single macerated strawberry. The chocolate ganache is a rich, unapologetic blob under a cloud of whipped cream; I manage two mouthfuls before admitting defeat and have been craving it ever since. Then, unprompted, a plate of gorgeously plump cherries appears, simply because Jun had them in from a supplier and wanted to share. Expect the odd surprise whenever something good lands at the back door. The drinks list is small and drawn from producers who farm organically without chemical intervention. House white or red is £6 a glass, with pours rotating alongside the menu, from Cyril Zangs’ Normandy cider to a Beaujolais Blanc for those trading up. We go for the chilled red (£8), a canny choice for a menu that swings from oily mackerel to braised lamb. A shared starter, two mains, two desserts, bread and tatties comes to around £85 before drinks; a glass each and you’re a smidge over £100 for two. For cooking of this care, that’s reasonable. Do you ever meet someone and immediately want them to do well? Jun is so

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ACROSS

DOWN

6 BADMAN WOKE (anagram) (10)

1 Church leader (6)

9 Spotless (8)

2 Circular road feature (10)

10 Monarch’s son (6)

3 Stomach muscles (3)

11 Exterior (5)

4 Melt, defrost (8)

12 Spoke to (9)

5 Fittingly (5, 8)

14 Meet, encounter (3, 4)

6 Dampen (7)

16 West London football club (7)

7 Resilience (13)

18 Plantation of trees (9)

8 Burden (4)

20 Royal racecourse (5)

13 Relax, take it easy (10)

21 Make beloved (6)

15 Storyteller (8)

22 Arty (8)

17 Part, segment (7)

24 Burning (10)

19 Corpse (4)

20 Middle Eastern language (6) 23 Flow back (3)

SOLUTION ACROSS: 6 Meadowbank, 9 Pristine, 10 Prince, 11 Outer, 12 Addressed, 14 Run into, 16 Chelsea, 18 Arboretum, 20 Ascot, 21 Endear, 22 Creative, 24 Combustion. DOWN: 1 Pastor, 2 Roundabout, 3 Abs, 4 Unfreeze, 5 Appropriately, 6 Moisten, 7 Steadfastness, 8 Onus, 13 Decompress, 15 Narrator, 17 Section, 19 Body, 20 Arabic, 23 Ebb.

with his team to go over whatever his suppliers have that’s best, then writes up the day’s menu on the blackboard by the door – a handful of starters, a couple of mains, two desserts, bread and, always, tatties. The potatoes come from Albert Bartlett, and the form they take changes constantly, roughedup Jerseys one night, mash the next, whatever best suits what’s sitting beside them. Of course, being Scottish, we’ll adore every incarnation. You’re essentially eating what Jun decides, and it quickly becomes clear that’s a safe place to be. The cooking is classic French in its bones, filtered through a Korean chef who has lived and worked internationally and knows exactly how to showcase Scottish produce. Whilst there’s nothing on the board for vegetarians and vegans, say the word and your options will appear. We share a starter of day boat mackerel (£14), its skin lightly torched and blistered, laid over discs of pink radish with a zingy orange vinaigrette and a tangle of shaved fennel; a dish so fresh the fish must have swum onto the plate. Sea trout (£25) arrives over haricot beans, the flesh yielding to the gentlest nudge of a fork, in two sauces – a frothy cream and a divinely moreish spinach cream. The £3 side of tatties, on this occasion boiled until their skins split to reveal fluffy insides and scattered with chives, earns its keep mopping up the last of both sauces. Braised lamb (£26) is the richer of the two mains, a dark, glossy slab set on a perch of roasted courgette, aubergine and kale, with a sweet dollop of tomato purée alongside. Both mains share a crunch that will divide diners. Jun leaves a deliberate bite in his beans and vegetables, and al dente isn’t to all tastes. Here it earns its place, texturally balancing

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Braised lamb with courgette, basil & tomato

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disarmingly earnest you’ll want to adopt him. There are no tweezers, no tasting menu and no pretence here; just a generous, nurturing kind of cooking, which is exactly why he named the place after a potato. Go now, while you can still walk right in.

Tatties, 5a Union Street, Edinburgh. Open Tuesday to Friday from 5pm, Saturday from 12pm and 5pm. Instagram: @tatties.edinburgh

THEATRE

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

The Jersey Boys celebrate their 20th Anniversary at The Playhouse

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Jean Brodie, PT Barnum and Mrs Culfeatheres, there’s an eclectic host of characters waiting in the wings to entertain Edinburgh in October Did you see The Silence of the Lambs last month? A fantastic looking production let down by a wordy script and a piece of adventurous casting, one question ran through my head as I watched it, ‘Why?’ Why attempt to recreate a five time Oscarwinning film on stage? Then, having decided to do that, why cut the signature line? The one everybody is waiting to hear? That said, full marks to Capital Theatre’s social media team for their creative attempt to address the omission; “Fava beans and a nice Chianti not included,” they posted. But can we really expect a soap star to match Anthony Hopkins’ career defining Oscar winning performance as Dr Hannibal Lecter six nights a week and twice on Wednesdays and Saturdays? Charismatically menacing and manipulative, Hopkins lived the role, although that said, Brian Cox was, for me, the definitive Lecter (spelt Lecktor) in Michael Mann’s 1986 thriller Manhunter - intense, cold and utterly chilling. Now there was a real threat. As for the richly imagined cinematic style,

again ‘Why?’ If you want a filmic experience, watch the movie, anyway, you’ll find my review on mustseetheatre.com - access it via The Edinburgh Reporter website here... https:// theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2026/09/ review-the-silence-of-the-lambs/ Watching The Silence of the Lambs reminded me we have another film adaptation heading to the city soon, Back To The Future, reworked for the stage as a musical. A sneak preview of what to expect surprised guests at a recent networking breakfast at The Playhouse, where the show will run this Christmas. Along with the coffee and bacon rolls, Broadway musical theatre legend Roger Bart, who will play Doc, and Australian musical theatre favourite Axel Duffy (Marty McFly), performed a couple of numbers from the show live. Sitting within touching distance of Bart as he appeared, in character, delivering a beautifully moving rendition of For The Dreamers that highlighted the difference in calibre of Broadway/West End talent and that of many touring casts sold on TV names. It’s why I’d

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie

19 Girls, junior-school teacher Miss Jean Brodie is famously, in her prime. Each year, Brodie selects her ‘set’. The crème de la crème of girls whom she will shape through art and politics, stories of sexual liberation and titillating glimpses of the women they could become. In return, she demands utter loyalty from them all. This new adaptation from the National Theatre of Scotland by David Harrower, promises to ‘sharpen the knives of Spark’s extraordinary work’ as it ‘looks head on at our enduring moral fascination with such a beguiling and dangerous character’.

The Steamie

Running time 2 hours 20 minutes including interval, tickets here https://lyceum.org.uk/ events/the-prime-of-miss-jean-brodie Also at the Lyceum, at the end of the month, don’t miss 1984 (27 October-7 November), George Orwell’s seminal classic. First published as a novel in 1949 (Orwell finished writing it in 1948 and is believed to have just transposed the last two digits of that year to get his title), it’s a book that has been on and off school curricula ever since, something that should guarantee it healthy audiences. In this new adaptation by Chris Hannan is a co-production between the Lyceum, Glasgow Citz’ and Dundee Rep, here’s what you need to know: Big Brother is watching you. The Thought Police monitor every word you say. Children spy on their parents and the Party has abolished the truth. In this totally controlled world, Winston and Julia begin a love affair which catapults them into rebellion against the Party.

Image: Christopher Bowen

recommend seeing original Broadway/West End productions whenever you get the chance. The touring version is always a diluted affair. If you want to share in that sneak preview of Back To The Future, check out my podcast, Theatre Pod, where you will find me in conversation with both Roger and Axel on the stage of the Playhouse, complete with the famous time-travelling Delorean as a backdrop. You can watch it on Youtube here https://www. youtube.com/@ LiamRuddenMustSeeTheatre. You’ll also find the first Theatre Pod, with Les Dennis sharing his love of all things theatre and, for Agatha Christie and whodunit fans, the most recent edition of Theatre Pod, which was filmed in St Martin’s Theatre on London’s West End with Denise Silvey, actor, director and general manager of The Mousetrap - don’t miss the wonderful reveal half way through. Looking ahead to October’s picks, there are some intriguing titles heading to the Capital. Let’s focus on the Royal Lyceum first where the new season continues with Muriel Spark’s much-loved classic, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (2-18 October), with Gayle Rankin in the titular role. Rankin follows in the footsteps of the likes of Maggie Smith, Geraldine McEwan (personally, my favourite Brodie) and Siobhan Redmond, who played the role on the Lyceum stage in the company’s acclaimed 2003 production. At the Marcia Blaine School for

The nightmare of a totalitarian society built on terror and lies is brought to vivid life in a powerful new adaptation of George Orwell’s final novel, which dramatises Winston and Julia’s epic battle to retain their humanity against all odds. Of course, the real nightmare is that in 2026, Orwell’s terrifying post-truth world of ‘alternative facts’ is appearing around us and more prescient than ever. Running time 2 hours 50 minutes, including interval. Tickets here https://lyceum.org.uk/ events/1984 David Benson in My Life

With Kenneth Williams

Across town at The Playhouse this month, there’s something a bit lighter as the Jersey Boys (12-17 October) return to celebrate their 20th Anniversary. This smash hit musical, which has been seen by more than 27 million people, tells the story of pop legends Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, you could say it’s a tale that is just too good to be true, that of four guys from Jersey who created a sound nobody had ever heard before… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of them. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story. Expect all their chart-toppers including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Beggin’, December 1963 (Oh What a Night), not forgetting, Bye Bye Baby, a hit for the Jersey boys long before the Bay City Rollers gave it a new lease of life. Running time 2 hours 30 minutes including interval, tickets https://www.atgtickets.com/ shows/jersey-boys/edinburgh-playhouse/

Roll up! Roll up! Matt Rawle is PT Barnum

Over at Capital Theatres, the trust that manages The King’s, Festival Theatre and Studio Theatre, three shows have caught my eye for October. Firstly, check out It Walks Around The House At Night (10 & 11 October), at the Studio Theatre, where the stage is set for terror. When an out-of-work actor takes a job playing a ghost at an old countryside manor, he expects nothing more than a few cheap scares. But as night after night unfolds, the role begins to blur with reality and something far more sinister starts to emerge. Part ghost story, part psychological thriller, It Walks Around The House At Night will draw you into a world of creeping dread, unexpected twists and dark humour. This is a haunted house story for a new era, brought to life through inventive staging, immersive sound and bold visual effects. Be afraid... but be quick to book,

there are only two performances. Running time 1 hour 30 minutes no interval, tickets https://www.capitaltheatres.com/ shows/it-walks-around-the-house-at-night/ Next to the newly reopened King’s Theatre and Tony Roper’s The Steamie (5-10 October), a play that is now a cult piece of the Scottish theatre landscape - some audience members have even been known to dress in character when seeing the show. So look out those pinnies and prepare to once again step back inside a 1950s washhouse on Hogmanay, where the water’s hot and the gossip’s even hotter. Meet Dolly, Magrit, Doreen, and Mrs Culfeathers, as they gather for the final wash of the year. Between scrubbing and steaming clothes, they share gossip, jokes, frustrations and dreams for the future. As midnight approaches, their conversations shift from the hilariously mundane to the deeply poignant, revealing fears of loneliness, change, and the erosion of community. Heart-warming, The Steamie captures the humour, resilience and quiet heroism of working-class women. This production also features the songs of Dave Anderson, everyone’s favourite Bank Manager in another cult Scottish favourite, City Lights. Running time 2 hours 40 minutes, including interval, tickets here https://www. capitaltheatres.com/shows/the-steamie/ Finally, roll up, roll up, to the circus as Barnum (6-10 October) arrives at the Festival Theatre. Choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing’s Oti Mabuse, Barnum features an ensemble cast of 20 plus actor-musicians, acrobats and circus acts. The musical first took the UK by storm in 1981 at the London Palladium with Michael Crawford making theatrical history with a death-defying nightly tightrope walk across the stage. A decade later, in Edinburgh, Peter Duncan starred with an even more terrifying death-slide onto the stage from the Balcony each night. Now Matt Rawle steps into Barnum’s shoes so, step right up, come follow the band. Running time 2 hours 20 minutes including interval, tickets here https://www. capitaltheatres.com/shows/barnum/ Until November, happy theatre-going, and please do check out www.mustseetheatre. com and Theatre Pod, Bests Liam

COFFEE AND FOOTBALL

BAGGINI’S COFFEE PHILOSOPHY

By Charlie Ellis

Why coffee philosophy means more than just what’s in a cup Edinburgh’s coffee scene has changed dramatically in recent years. Good coffee is no longer something you have to hunt for. There are new cafés and roasteries which appear regularly, Peregrine (the Pleasance) and The Hall (St. Mary’s Street) among the latest. A session at this year’s Edinburgh International Book Festival, when philosopher Julian Baggini used coffee to think about how we live, felt well placed. Baggini was joined in the Spiegeltent by Washington Vieira and Erin Newby Vieira of Santu Coffee (founded in 2018), whose Union Street roastery has become one of Edinburgh’s best places to drink coffee. Baggini is not, by his own admission, a coffee obsessive. He wrote The Book of Coffee (published by Mitchell Beazley) with considerable help from James Hoffmann, the coffee consultant and YouTuber. The starting point for Baggini’s book was another short work: Okakura Kakuzō’s The Book of Tea, which he called the wisest book he had ever read. He had expected a touristfriendly introduction to Japanese thought. Instead, he found a challenge to a habit embedded in Western philosophy: treating the sensory world as less important than the intellectual one. Coffee, he suggested, asks us to do the opposite, and to pay attention.

TASTE, SNOBBERY AND WHO DECIDES

That sounds simple, but anyone watching Edinburgh’s coffee culture develop will recognise the tension. There is growing appreciation of beans, roasting, brewing and provenance, but also a risk that enthusiasm curdles into snobbery. Baggini has considered this before. His earlier book Welcome to Everytown took ordinary tastes seriously at a time when he met plenty of disdain for preferences outside educated metropolitan circles. Who decides what counts as good taste remains central to his thinking about coffee. For anyone reviewing cafés, it’s an awkward question. How much of calling a coffee good is objective, and how much is simply personal preference? The event tested this directly. We

were handed cups of raw green coffee beans, the kind roasters such as Santu receive before roasting transforms them, and asked to describe their smell. The answers varied enormously. That was the point: smell and taste are personal. Baggini described his own coffee education as something he had only recently begun, having grown up in a household where food was eaten rather than examined.

ROAST, RIME AND THE FRAGILITY OF GOOD THINGS

The distinction between noticing and simply consuming became clear when we tried two coffees from identical beans, one a medium roast, the other dark. The difference was immediate. The dark roast carried the familiar bitterness typical of British café coffee before specialty coffee widened the range of flavours on offer. Washington Vieira noted that dark roast coffee generally contains less caffeine than lighter roasts, which makes the assumption that dark, bitter coffee is “stronger” rather misleading. Then came the striking detail: the medium roast took 14 minutes and 30 seconds, the dark roast just eight seconds longer. Eight seconds, and the results were noticeably different. For Baggini, this illustrated what he calls the fragility of good things: small changes can have consequences far larger than their size suggests. The coffee kept changing. Next was a nitro cold brew served over ice, an unlikely choice on a damp Edinburgh morning but an excellent one. Nitrogen gives the drink a smooth, creamy texture, and again the emphasis fell on paying attention to what’s actually in the cup rather than treating coffee as a caffeine delivery system. Even decaf got a philosophical defence: as good decaffeinated coffee becomes harder to distinguish from the real thing in blind tastings, perhaps the true purists are those who drink coffee for flavour alone.

THE PERSON BEHIND THE CUP

The discussion then turned from the drink to

the person making it. Baggini argued against the idea that some work is inherently more important than other work, citing Wim Wenders’ film Perfect Days, in which a Tokyo toilet cleaner finds dignity in doing his job well. What matters, he said, is not the task itself but how it’s done. That idea suits Edinburgh’s coffee culture well. Enormous skill sits behind a cup that might be drunk in ten minutes. Vieira spoke about the precision involved in roasting and the responsibility of honouring coffee, including everyone who grew, picked and processed it before it reached the barista. But precision has limits. Could coffee ever be automated? Vieira was sceptical. He has watched enthusiasts spend heavily on machines and grinders chasing the perfect espresso, only to produce a single “golden shot” they can never quite repeat. Humidity changes, conditions change, coffee changes, and a good barista responds. There’s a lesson here for Edinburgh’s coffee drinkers. High standards are welcome; making customers feel foolish for wanting milk or sugar is not. The Vieiras warned against cafés “forcing pernicketiness on customers”. Coffee culture works best when expertise is offered, not imposed.

WHAT CAFÉS ARE REALLY FOR

Then there’s the café itself. Santu’s Union Street space, a converted public washhouse with high ceilings and plenty of natural light, doesn’t feel designed from a “trendy coffee shop” mood board. Erin Vieira’s principle is simple: “create a space you yourself want to be in.” It’s a good test for any café, in a city with plenty of places that look pleasant but increasingly alike. The best spaces have purpose beyond serving a good flat white. Baggini closed by considering what cafés are actually for. They can be places to read alone, work quietly or simply sit with a coffee. They can also be places for conversation and the exchange of ideas, continuing the older tradition of the coffee house, and, of course, excellent places to eavesdrop. That may be why Edinburgh’s coffee culture matters beyond the quality of the drink. Cafés are becoming important third spaces, taking on some of the social role pubs once held. The coffee may be why we walk through the door. What happens after that is rather more interesting. Santu Roastery 23 Union Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3LR

Hibs have notable history in The Tennent’s Sixes

Hearts James Wilson and James Penrice in a race at Riccarton

Hearts off to Europe By NIGEL DUNCAN

Hearts embark on their European adventure in the UEFA Conference League in October, and the players, and fans, can’t wait. European nights under the lights at Tynecastle are special, and so are trips abroad. This season, the Jambos fly to Turkey, Switzerland and Cyprus, three great locations, but the Men in Maroon open their campaign at home to Danish Superliga club, Nordsjaelland on 15 October at 8pm. Seven days later they jet to Turkey to clash with Trabzonspor (October 22, 5.45pm) in the Senol Gunes Spor Kompleksi and the hosts boast Mo Salah, late of Liverpool, in their ranks. Many had hopes Trabzonspor would visit Gorgie, so they could see one of the most talked about players in recent years, but it was not to be. November 5 is the next Euro date and this time it is FC Thun in Switzerland with a 5.45pm kick-off in the in the Arena Thun before the Jambos face two home ties. AS Monaco visit on November 26 (5.45pm) in Matchday four with FK Borac in Bosnia and Herzegovina next up on December 10 (8pm). The final fixture is in the Limassol Stadium in Cyprus against Pafos FC on December 17 (8pm). All the kick-off times stated are UK time and teenager James Wilson is anxious to kick-start the campaign having enjoyed the Jambos last Euro excursion. The 19-year-old loves going away even if he concedes the players do not get much time to explore the different cities they visit. The Hearts Academy graduate said: “Just being away, playing in Europe, you’re playing against teams from other countries, I love all of that.” Wilson was part of the squad which squeezed through the

play-off against Rapid Vienna on a not-to-be-forgotten night in the Austrian capital, with penalties deciding the outcome. Recalling that glory night, which will live long in the memory of those who were there and those watching at home, Wilson said: “I was so desperate to get through that night, just to make sure we had some sort of European football to look forward to. “We’ve got some good days coming up.” Hearts were last in the Conference League in season 2024/25 when they won 2-1 at Dinamo-Minsk and beat Omonoia 2-0 at Tynecastle before losing 2-0 at Tynecastle to Heidenheim and 2-0 at Circle Brugge before going down 2-0 in Copenhagen. Their final match was at home to Petroclub and the Jambos drew 2-2, after leading 2-1 through a Blair Spittal goal after 70 minutes only to concede to Mudrac who slotted a penalty with seven mintues of regular time left on the clock. That’s despite Hearts having 61 per cent of possession against 39 per cent and completing 513 passes against 243. To complete the misery, Hearts had 15 corners with nine from Petroclub. A sore one to take particularly as Hearts had 13 attempts on goal against only eight in reply. Slim margins in Europe between success and disappointment, but this is a new team with a new head coach and fans hope for a decent run this time with, hopefully, Euro football after Christmas. For the record, the top eight reams advance straight to the Round of 16 and the next 16 teams – those placed ninth to 24th – enter a two-leg knockout phase play-off to secure the remaining sports in the round of 16. The bottom 12 teams – those placed between 25 and 36 – exit Europe.

Image: Nigel Duncan

By JOHN HISLOP

The Tennent’s Sixes will return this autumn with a legends version of the small-sided tournament, with heroes of the recent past wearing the official club kits of this season. The original Tennent’s Sixes captured the imagination of a generation of Scottish football fans from 1984 until 1993. Hibs won the tournament in 1990. All Premier Division teams competed and the two group winners and runners-up qualified for the semi-finals. After topping Group 1, Hibs faced Hearts who finished runners up in Group 2. Tosh McKinlay gave Hearts a second-half lead before Kane equalised with an assist from Collins. In the penalty shoot out Scott Crabbe scored for Hearts before Kane’s effort was saved by Henry Smith. Goal hero McKinlay struck the bar before Pat McGinlay equalised. Goals from Collins and Kane

secured a 2-0 final win over St Mirren and the £16,000 first prize went to the Easter Road men. Assistant manager Peter Cormack said: “It was a tremendous victory for the lads. Over the two nights we were the best side, playing some excellent football, so it was nice to achieve something. I was delighted for the players and it will give them a boost away from the pressure of Premier League football. “Andy (Goram) was amazing. What an achievement to come through a tournament like this losing only two goals. He’s a character who loves to compete. “Kano (Paul Kane) was tremendous. He has an eye for a goal and he did very well.” This year’s event will take place on the weekend of October 3 and 4 at Braehead Arena and all the action will be shown live on Premier Sports. Saturday group stages will start with three regionalised groups of

four, with each group winner and runner-up progressing to the knockout stages, along with the two best third-placed teams. To keep fans on the edge of their seats, every game will have a winner with a bonus point for a penalty shootout win in the event of a draw. The sin bin will also be making a comeback and organisers hope it will capture the imagination of football fans and families alike. Neil Doncaster, SPFL Group Chief Executive, said: “The Tennent’s Sixes has a special place in the hearts and minds of a generation of football fans and we are absolutely thrilled to get the band back together again with the official endorsement of the SPFL. “There are many unofficial Masters events but only one SPFL Tennent’s Sixes: the original and best and one we are proud to put our name to, with the support and involvement of all 12 William Hill Premiership clubs.”

Tracy Gilbert MP Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith tracy.gilbert.mp@parliament.uk

Address: 78 The Shore, Leith, EH6 6RA Email: tracy.gilbert.mp@parliament.uk

Email:

Mobile: 07983 191316

Dr Scott Arthur MP Serving the Communities of Edinburgh South West

“If you think I can ever help you, no matter how big or small the issue, please do get in touch”.

Contact Scott: 0131 322 3225 scott.arthur.mp@ parliament.uk 139 Dundee Street, EH11 1BP

Chris Murray MP Edinburgh East and Musselburgh I hold advice surgeries across the constituency on the first Friday of every month. Get in touch to make an appointment. chris.murray.mp@parliament.uk 0131 574 9800 @chrismurraymp 190 Portobello High Street Edinburgh EH15 1EX

THE VOICE OF SPORT

Grange women are the champs GRANGE CRICKET CLUB women have been crowned Premier League 30 Champions for the first time, testament to the club’s focus on developing and promoting youth. By winning 11 of their 12 games Grange delivered consistent performances, in particular co-captain and wicket-keeper Beatrice Lusty (317 runs) who led from the front. Also, opener Clare Levings contributed 264 runs from six matches including two half centuries and one century while Cecilia Beddison chipped in with 160 runs. Among the bowlers wickets were distributed amongst pacers Chloe Milburn, the co-captain, Bareera Gul, Aishwarya Chaudhary and spinners Aditi Patwari and Clare Levings. Head Coach, Sharez Omer Khan, said: “Absolutely delighted for all the players as they become part of history becoming the

first Grange team to win the Womens Premier League 30. To see everyone’s hard work, dedication and energy drive us to the WPL30 championship is a real credit to how far we have come in recent years. Some of our players have come through our pathways and combined really well with the senior players who have played a crucial role in mentoring the younger ones, creating a special culture. We are improving regularly and feel there is much more to come, making for an exciting future at Grange.” Picture right: Back row (left to right) Cecilia Beddison, Alex Taylor, Charlotte Murray, Maisie Whale, Adya Patwari Front (left to right) Bareera Gul, Aishwarya Chaudhary, Beatrice Lusty (Co-Captain), Sharez Khan (Coach), Chloe Milburn (Co-Captain), Cassie Ritchie, Clare Levings

The women’s team

Victorious Vina

VINA JAMIOLAHMADY, a junior member of Hatton sports club, near Kirknewton, brought back four trophies from the UK national deaf tennis championships played recently at Roehampton.

Vina won the ladies singles by beating Valerie Copenhagen, from Middlesex, in three sets and added the under-18 title to her haul. There was also success in both the under-18 doubles and Open mixed.

Sylvia with her cup

R.Dimelow

Willowbrae bowls

Vida in Roehampton

SYLVIA NAPIER won the ladies championship for the fifth time when she defeated Mary Harvey in the final.

There was a neat double for Brian Muir who won the men’s seniors title by beating Colin Moffat a year after he had taken

the club championship. This year’s gents title winner is Richard Dimelow who overcame Gino di Ponio.

billlothian1008@gmail.com

Tennis now on the table at Abercorn club

Table tennis

ABERCORN SPORTS CLUB, Willowbrae, have extended their portfolio of competitive activities by adding table tennis to the regular diet of tennis and squash. And the three players nominated to carry the flag into Division Five of the Edinburgh and Lothians League - Toryn Whitehead, John Sinclair and Zuzanna Chamielec - responded with the best win of the opening week in beating Penicuik V 9-1 to sit top of the table. The decision to embrace a competitive structure for the first time lay mainly with John Sinclair, who said: “Table tennis at the Abercorn has been very popular for some time and we decided to put a team in the league’s bottom section along with the lower order from well known names such as Murrayfield, Edinburgh International, West Lothian and Haddington. “We had no idea how we would measure

up against our 11 rivals overall but to our very pleasant surprise we won with Toryn and Zuzanna both unbeaten on the night. “I have personally been playing socially for years but it came as a shock to be told that the rules had changed since my last competitive match. “It’s now two serves each player and first to 11 instead of five serves and first to 21. “It is never too late to teach an old dog new tricks and as a further boost it was great to find league table tennis being played in great spirits with ages varying greatly.” The Abercorn debut success was hailed by club president Chloe Madeley who told members: “A fantastic result and a brilliant start to what we hope will be the first of many seasons for the club. “A huge well done to our historymakers. The first chapter of Abercorn’s table tennis history has been written.”

Andrew Leitch

Hamish flanked by two of his fellow competitors

Hamish leads out British team Hamish, 90, gives fellow ‘Sonian Josh a run for his money While Josh Kerr was setting a new world mile record and taking gold in the Ultimate Meet in Budapest across the world another Edinburgh athlete has also been covering himself in glory. There are differences, of course. While Josh runs middle distance Hamish Mackenzie is a sprinter. Oh, and Hamish is 62 years older, although he and Josh share the same George Watson’s alma mater. Yes, 62 years. For it was in the global Veterans World Games in Daegu, South Korea, that Hamish has been making his mark just as he did in the previous ones in Gothenburg two years ago and exclusively highlighted then by the

Edinburgh Reporter. Now 90 Hamish was the only British athlete in the 90-94 age-group which restricted him to the individual 100m and 200m events. But to make up for the disappointment of no relays of the type in which he took silver in Gothenburg Hamish was chosen to lead out his team who were competing in categories aged 35 upwards. “That was quite an honour to lead the team out” said Hamish, adding: “and overall I had to be pleased with my efforts even if I didn’t make the medals. “The competition was quite different from last time with many of the competitors coming from the likes of China, Mongolia, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan as well as Korea and being treated like professionals in the way they were encouraged to prepare. There were very few Europeans

among the 8,000 athletes taking part. “In the two intervening years I visited Meadowbank to familiarise myself with running in lanes - something I wasn’t used to last time - and it paid dividends as I was pleased with my times in finishing sixth out of 13 competitors in my age group and qualifying for the finals. “Another factor I had to take into consideration was the heat so I was right to be satisfied with how I performed. It also took a bit of time to get a tiring journey out of my system. Hamish, who was accompanied by his wife, Maggie, is naturally pragmatic about future plans. “I’ve heard the next Veterans Games will be in Holland and while I’d like to be involved I am 90 years old and I have to just wait and see....!”

Andrew wins SIX titles

ANDREW LEITCH was a serial winner at the annual Waverley club tennis championships winning both the men’s open and men’s senior singles as well as the open and senior mixed (with, respectively, Kim Atkinson and Claire Leitch). For good measure Andrew also claimed the men’s doubles crown with Scott Tulloch whom he had defeated 6-4. 3-6. 6-4 in the open singles final. The ladies open singles was won by Jules Mair who overcame relatively new member Daria Pershina 6-1, 6-2 before teaming up with Kim Atkinson to win the ladies open doubles. Other winners were Ronnie Petre and Allan Paton (senior men’s doubles) while among the juniors Joseph Dingwall and Donald Dow Ewing won at under-12 and under-14 level beating, respectively, Finlay Ormond and Oliver Davidson. The under-12 plate was won by Hamish Mair who overcame Duncan Usher.