Tag: festive season

That’s the Spirit! Walker’s Shortbread partners with The Scotsman Group to create the ultimate festive serve

Experience the magic of shortbread with Walker’s 125 Old Fashioned, a limited-edition whisky-based cocktail with a twist! Now available in 28 Scotsman Group bars across Scotland.

Walker’s Shortbread has joined forces with leading leisure operator The Scotsman Group, to create a special serve to kickstart Edinburgh’s festive season in style.

Introducing The Walker’s 125 Old Fashioned: a limited-edition whisky-based cocktail that honours Walker’s impressive 125-year heritage while spreading the joy of shortbread over the festive season and winter months.

Making and sharing shortbread is an age-old Christmas tradition in Scotland and Walker’s is bringing this to life with a modern twist. Inspired by the mighty ‘Old Fashioned’, The Walker’s 125 incorporates delicious Walker’s Shortbread fingers, The Glenlivet Founders Reserve and Liquid Oats Honey to create a luxurious cocktail that is the ultimate toast to the holiday season.

The Walkers 125 is now listed on menus at 28 Scotsman Group bars across Scotland, including in stunning venues in Edinburgh such as The Scotsman Bar, The Grand Café and The Ghillie Dhu. The Walker’s 125 is available to order in selected Scotsman Group venues until 31st January 2024.

Walker’s all-butter shortbread dates to 1898, when 21-year-old Joseph Walker opened the doors of his own bakery with a loan of £50 and the ambition to bake ‘The World’s Finest Shortbread’. Over a century on, Joseph’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren have remained true to his original ideal – to bake ‘The World’s Finest Shortbread’.

Sarah Macaulay, Head of Marketing at Walker’s Shortbread, said: “At Walker’s, we love that our shortbread is enjoyed at Christmas and that it plays a part in generations of families’ festive traditions.  As December marks the end of our 125th anniversary celebrations, it’s only right that we create a cocktail with another Scottish icon; single malt Scotch whisky.

“That’s why we’ve teamed up with The Scotsman to not only create The Walkers 125, but also to serve it in 28 of their unique and popular venues across Scotland. It’s the perfect tipple for anyone in Scotland enjoying the festivities and looking for a unique whisky-based cocktail to try.”

The Walker’s 125 Old Fashioned is a well-balanced cocktail with sweet creamy notes of honeysuckle and a long-lasting finish of toffee notes, finished with a satisfying Walker’s shortbread crunch.

Roddy Coyle, Head of Beverage Operations at The Scotsman Group, said: “It’s a pleasure to be partnering with Walker’s Shortbread to bring The Walkers 125 to life. Shortbread is a classic treat and one of the nation’s favourite – so we wanted to create a cocktail fit for its worthy title and Walker’s Scottish heritage.

“Scotland is known for its impressive and high-quality whisky, making The Glenlivet Founders Reserve an obvious choice to form the base of the cocktail. The vegan Liquid Oats Vanilla & Honey Liqueur is a nod to our nation’s love for oats – and of course, we’ve incorporated Walker’s delicious shortbread fingers to level up the recipe and give it the special Walker’s touch!”

Please drink responsibly and for advice or support about drinking alcohol please visit drinkaware.co.uk.

Edinburgh:

  • The Scotsman Bar
  • The Grand Café
  • The Granary
  • Inn on the Mile
  • The Murrayfield
  • Southpour
  • Ghillie Dhu

Pet owners urged to pet proof your Christmas and stay off Santa Paw’s naughty list

Animal lovers in Scotland are being encouraged to keep their pets safe this festive season by pet proofing their Christmas, ensuring anything which may be mistaken for a tasty treat is out of paw’s reach. 

The warning comes as new research from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) reveals nearly four in five companion animal vets in Scotland saw at least one case of toxic ingestion over the 2021 Christmas period.  

The festive season brings with it presents, decorations and yummy festive food. But these seemingly innocent pleasures can be deadly if eaten by animals. Chocolate, raisins and other dried fruit – such as that in mince pies or Christmas puddings – onion, garlic, xylitol in sugar-free products and seasonal decorations like mistletoe and holly can all be dangerous, and even fatal, to dogs and cats if eaten.

New Voice of the Veterinary Profession research shows that thousands of vets across the UK treated dogs for toxic ingestion last Christmas season, with 76% seeing cases of chocolate poisoning and 69% seeing dogs taken unwell after easing raisins or sultanas. Around a fifth (19%) reported seeing cases caused by the artificial sweetener Xylitol.

Foreign body ingestion in dogs was also common over the 2021 festive period, with gifts for humans, including small parts of children’s toys, being the most common cause (14%) while consumption of Christmas decorations and gifts for pets (12%) and wrapping (five per cent) were also highlighted by vets as causing issues.

But it’s not just dogs who should be on Santa’s naughty list: more than a quarter of vets (27%) also saw cases of toxic ingestion in cats, who were most likely to have ingested non-food items such as seasonal plants like holly or mistletoe (reported by 18% of vets) or antifreeze (seven per cent). Thirteen per cent of vets saw cats with foreign body ingestion, including seven per cent seeing cases caused by Christmas decorations and three per cent by wrapping.

British Veterinary Association President Malcolm Morley said: “Christmas can be the most wonderful time of the year but not if you end up with a poorly pet. Being vigilant and taking a few key precautions is all that is needed to keep your pets happy and healthy over the festive period.  

“Keep all edible items, decorations and anything else a pet may mistake for a tasty treat out of their reach to help prevent avoidable emergency visits to the vet. We also advise keeping pets to their normal diets and avoiding feeding them any human food. If you are concerned your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t have, do contact your vet as soon as possible.”

Top tips for keeping Christmas hazard-free for pets

  1. Protect your pet from poisons: A range of festive treats and traditions, such as chocolate in advent calendars and sweets, raisins, xylitol (found in sugar-free treats), nuts, grapes, liquorice, poinsettia, holly and mistletoe are toxic to cats and dogs. 
  2. Keep decorations out of reach: Ribbons, wrapping paper, baubles, tinsel and tree lights can seem like appealing playthings to cats and dogs but can be very dangerous if broken, chewed or swallowed. Batteries for Christmas gifts also need to be kept safe as, if ingested, they may cause severe chemical burns to the mouth, throat and stomach.
  3. Forget festive food for pets: We all enjoy a richer diet over Christmas, but fatty foods and Christmas dinners shouldn’t be shared with the animals of the household. They can trigger sickness and diarrhoea or other conditions from gastroenteritis to pancreatitis, so try to stick to your pet’s regular diet and routine. Too many treats can also lead to pet obesity.
  4. Keep away the bones: Cooked bones, including turkey bones, should not be given to pets as they can splinter and puncture the digestive tract.
  5. Know where to go: Even with all the care in the world, animal accidents and emergencies can still happen. Make sure you’re prepared by checking your vet’s emergency cover provision and holiday opening hours or, if you are away from home, use the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Find a Vet facility.

For more information on pets and poisons, download Animal Welfare Foundation’s free Pets and Poisons leaflet.

Pets-and-Poisons-1Download

Managing your mental health this festive season

Psychologists share tips and tools to help you cope with Christmas triggers 

Although Christmas is time for joy and celebration, for many it can be overwhelming and have an impact on their mental wellbeing. With last year’s Christmas being heavily impacted by Government restrictions, this festive season may present new challenges for some.

Psychologists Madeleine Gauffin, Dr Cecilia Radecka and Dag Härdfeldt, at digital healthcare provider Livi share some tips and practical tools to help you manage your mental health this Christmas. 

Dealing with stressful family gatherings 

Madeleine says: “Consider how you want to spend your time. Just because things feel more open this year, it doesn’t mean you have to spend time with absolutely everyone you know and love.  

“If you’re worried about family pressure, try putting boundaries in place. Families can be invasive or cast shame or guilt. You don’t have to justify your decision on how you spend your time. Allow yourself to be honest and try to communicate that”. 

Managing anxiety 

Madeleine says: “There are several types of anxiety disorders, from Generalised Anxiety Disorder to social anxiety disorder. With the return of office Christmas parties and family gatherings, this year may be particularly challenging for some.   

“Although it’s important to talk to a doctor or psychologist about your anxiety, there are a number of tools you can use to cope in the moment when your anxiety feels overwhelming. For example, try this simple breathing exercise to help calm your nervous system and reduce stress in your body:  

·       Sit or lie down comfortably 

·       Exhale completely 

·       Gently and slowly inhale through your nose for the count of 4 

·       Gently exhale through your mouth for the count of 4 

·       Pause and hold for the count of 4 

·       As you breathe, imagine your breath moving around the image of a square 

·       Repeat for 1 or 2 minutes, or until you feel calmer 

“Exercise is also one of the best ways to help you manage your anxiety in the longer term. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins that enhance emotional wellbeing. High intensity aerobic exercise like jogging, running or brisk walking, 2-5 times a week for at least 2 weeks, can be effective in reducing anxiety”. 

Dealing with depression 

For people living with depression the holidays can be a difficult period. The latest data from the Office of National Statistics found self-reported depression in Great Britain has increased compared with pre-pandemic levels, with one in five adults experiencing depressive symptoms in the last quarter, compared to one in ten prior to the pandemic.  

Madeleine says: “During the festive season and winter months, a lack of sunlight has shown a correlation with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in some people. This is a type of recurring depression with a seasonal pattern. 

Try to get as much daylight as possible. Even a short daily walk can be beneficial . Natural light is the most important cue for maintaining circadian rhythms (the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle).” 

Reducing feelings of loneliness 

There are nine million lonely people in the UK and four million of them are older people. Christmas is a particularly painful time for older people who experience loneliness throughout the year, but there are a variety of ways which can help to combat feelings of loneliness.  

Dr Cecilia says: “Being part of a community gives us a strong sense of belonging. Doing activities that we enjoy is good for our mental wellbeing and a way to meet new people. Try taking part in a book club, choir or volunteering at a community garden. One study found that group singing significantly boosts psychological wellbeing”. 

Madeleine adds: “If you can’t see friends or family in real life this Christmas, it helps to make the effort to keep in touch with people in any way you can – video calls or phone calls can help. You can consider starting new networks, too, like an online book club. Or, arrange to have a festive dinner with friends or family over the internet.  

“A study has shown that even going for a walk on your own for at least 20 minutes a day can help to reduce feelings of loneliness. When you’re outdoors, your world opens up. You see nature and other people, and this is a good distraction away from your own thoughts”. 

When to see a doctor 

Madeleine Gauffin, Livi psychologist, said: “Sometimes, you may need professional support to help manage feelings of stress, grief or mental health conditions. If you regularly feel overwhelmed, book an appointment to speak to a doctor or therapist where you feel most comfortable, whether that’s digital or in-person.”. 

For more information visit: https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/how-to-stress-less-this-winter-a-psychologist-approved-toolkit/ 

Party Season Hair

How To Get The Look

 The festive season is the perfect time to get glam. Forget your favourite loungewear and try something new. Maybe a red lip or a brand new hairstyle. Unlike last year, we are able to go ‘out out’ this Christmas and New Year.

Local salon owner at SESH Hairdressing SIMON HILL has put together some styles you can create at home for the festivities: 

Cool Girl Texture – 

This style is perfect if you like an understated style that still looks cool and pairs perfectly with a sparkly, show stopping outfit.

The key to this look is in the products you use. Use your straightening iron to add as much or as little texture as you like. Slightly bend the hair between the irons in alternating directions to create a subtle shape.

Finish with a texturising hairspray and use your fingers to manipulate the shape and style of your hair. The key to this look is not to be too ‘perfected’ so embrace that slightly undone look. 

Product recommendation – Wella EIMI Sugar Lift . 

Top Knot – 

Not just a style reserved for the day before hair wash, but a style that can elevate any Christmas party outfit.

To give this look a polished edge to make it party friendly, spend time smoothing your hair into a ponytail before creating the bun. Use your hair brush to smooth your hair towards the bobble to remove any unwanted lumps.

Take the length of your ponytail and wrap around your hair tie before securing with hair grips. Finish with strong hold hairspray to withstand Scottish winter weather.

Product recommendation – Wella Luxe Oil. 

Sleek and Sophisticated – 

Bang on trend at the moment is this slick back, sophisticated style. Give this look an update for the festive season with a deep side parting like we have done here.

Use a lightweight hair gel or pomade to remove unwanted texture and smooth your hair back towards the nape of your neck. If you have short hair, try leaving it down, smoothed behind your ears. If your hair is longer, try tying it into a low bun or a sleek ponytail. 

Product recommendation – Eleven Australia Dry Shampoo Volume Paste 

Vava Volume – 

This style embodies Christmas time and is sure to turn heads on NYE.

Use your hairdryer to add lots of volume to your hair before your begin styling. Depending on the look you want, you can add a soft wave through your hair once dry. Take the top section of your hair and create that volume at the front to give an air of drama to your style.

Use a back comb to create this and apply dry shampoo to the roots of your hair to give it more grip and hold. Secure with hair grips towards the crown of your head before using your fingers to gently pull out loose strands. This look is guaranteed to take your Christmas night out outfit to the next level. 

Product recommendation – Eleven Australia Dry Finish Wax Spray. 

To shop all products mentioned above please visit SESH Hairdressing shop online – https://shop.seshhairdressing.co.uk/.

Laings Edinburgh celebrates the gift of time this festive season

Independent luxury jeweller, Laings, has transformed its Edinburgh showroom into a Christmas wonderland, featuring traditional rich red and gold décor, to encourage its clients to treasure the time they have with loved ones and celebrate the magic of the festive season. 

Putting a focus on the gift of time, Laings has launched an in-store activation with the British Heart Foundation to help bring people together, giving clients the opportunity to send a special message through its dedicated showroom post boxes.

The charity initiative, which will see £10 donated by Laings for every letter received at its Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cardiff and Southampton showrooms, and through its website, will help to end heartbreak from heart and circulatory diseases.

Each sentimental message sent to Laings will be emailed to the chosen recipient to open on Christmas day, endeavouring to put a glorious smile on their face. Once the recipient has enjoyed their letter, they will be able to see all the messages from across the UK showcased on the Laings website, displaying the warmth and love of Laings’ extended family.

Through six generations of family ownership, Laings understands the importance of long-standing relationships and celebrating special moments, with strong family values at its core.

Stuart McDowell, Managing Director of Laings, said: “Reflecting on what has been a challenging year for most, this year, more than ever, we must cherish the precious moments spent with our loved ones.

“Family is at the heart of Laings, and we feel the festive season is the perfect time to bring everyone closer together. Our winter campaign does just that – encouraging us to treasure the moments we get to spend together and creating memories which last a lifetime.”

With the season to sparkle now upon us, Laings has also unveiled a new Fine Jewellery and Diamonds collection which includes one-of-a-kind pieces, superlative designs and magnificent gemstones.

Amongst the handcrafted pieces includes an 18ct white gold diamond necklet with 37 dazzling pear cut diamonds (£78,200), 18ct art-deco inspired emerald and diamond ring (£27,900) and 18ct white gold sapphire and diamond oval cut statement earrings (£22,995). Created with the finest materials and crafted with excellence, the new collection reinforces that a gift from Laings is one to be treasured for generations.

The collections are on display in Laings’ festive campaign photoshoot, which features traditional Christmas and extravagant party scenes. Both prove the versatility of the collections at Laings and illustrate the magic of the festive season with gifting, champagne, ballgowns and, most importantly, love in the air.

The campaign can be seen in Laings showroom windows across all of its locations, bringing to life the festivities with a distinctive red and signature Laings blue colour scheme that only adds to the wonder of the jewellery in the spotlight.

Stuart added: “We are proud to help celebrate our clients’ memorable moments and this Christmas our talented team will be on hand to help you find the perfect gift – or something to add to your own wish list.

“As we continue to invest in every area of the business, we’re able to take our clients on an even more immersive journey, from offering them the opportunity to view our carefully curated collections in an enhanced showroom environment, to matching them with one of our in-house designers to create a bespoke piece.

“We’ve also recently introduced new brands to our esteemed portfolio, including luxury Maison Fabergé, as well as expanding our own collections, bringing new pieces and price points to our clients.”

Browse the latest collections at www.Laingsuk.com/Christmas or visit one of Laings’ showrooms to speak to a member of the team and to post your letter to a loved one.

All letters as part of the British Heart Foundation ‘messages to loved ones’ initiative should be submitted by 24 December 2021.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street unveils festive food & drink and Hogmanay plans

Edinburgh’s ultimate whisky destination has something for everyone this season

Johnnie Walker Princes Street, the eight-floor visitor attraction in the heart of Scotland’s capital city, has today unveiled its festive plans including a mouth-watering selection of food and drinks, and an unrivalled collection of whiskies and whisky experiences for those looking to purchase gifts and celebrate with loved ones.

Food & Drink

The menus across both stunning rooftop bars have been given a festive makeover, with dishes including Glenkinchie infused hot smoked salmon with crab and seaweed aioli, or Lowlands baby beets and Lanark blue cheese salad, candied walnuts, plum & chicory lettuce with hay smoked roe deer loin, sure to delight 1820 Bar Diners.

A festive set menu featuring Christmas pudding and Johnnie Walker crème caramel is also available in the 1820 Bar, and a set menu for special occasions can be booked in the exclusive Blue Label dining area which includes fillet of highlands beef with haggis cannelloni and honey & thyme roasted root veg. 

From a drinks perspective, the 1820 Bar adds “orange and caraway” and “cranberry and chestnut” to its offering which explores the world of flavour.

Those wiling away the festive hours in the Explorers’ Bothy can enjoy the likes of Vietnamese dressed oyster and crispy shallots, salt baked beetroot and orange tartare cones, beef cheek and truffle doughnuts or a vegetarian charcutier selection with handmade oatcakes, artisan biscuits & sourdough bread.

Hogmanay

Hogmanay revellers on the lookout for great music, incredible food and an unbeatable view of both Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline need look no further than Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s rooftop 1820 Bar’s Hogmanay event.

Everyone ringing in the new year at this exclusive evening will be treated to live entertainment from incredible jazz vocalist, Georgia Cécile, welcome drinks, an aperitif, selection of canapes, festive nibbles and a glass of champagne or a dram for when the clock strikes midnight. Booking information will be released soon, follow Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s social channels for updates.

Festive Experiences

Johnnie Walker Princes Street offers a range of immersive experiences perfect for celebrating this festive season. The flagship Journey of Flavour tour can accommodate up to 22 guests, making it ideal for celebrating with friends, family, or work colleagues.

The full sensory tour is a 90-minute exploration of taste which includes three personalised whisky drinks. Guests set off from the welcome lobby which will be decorated with a magnificent Christmas tree, and explore festive touches around the building, including spectacular wreaths and garlands.

For the whisky connoisseur, look no further than Casks of Discovery in the venue’s underground Whisky Makers’ Cellar. Here, guests explore the art of blending and taste whiskies live blended to Johnnie Walker Master Makers’ recipes. They’ll also have the chance to savour exclusive single malt, single grain and experimental whiskies drawn straight from the cask.

Festive Shopping

For those looking to take home a gift for someone special, the ground floor retail space boasts an unparalleled collection of both blended and single malt whiskies to suit all tastes and budgets.

Moreover, the store has a number of exclusive items which cannot be purchased anywhere else, including the fill your own Johnnie Walker Princes Street blend, now in its winter edition, which is an experience in itself.

The whisky is sure to please with notes of butterscotch, tablet and creamy toffee, and there is a bespoke laser engraving and gift-wrapping service available to add that extra special touch. The Johnnie Walker Black Label Princes Street edition is another exclusive, with customisable gift tags available for all bottles.

The store also carries a wide selection of Johnnie Walker merchandise including re-usable water bottles, clothing, glassware and more. Stocking fillers like crackers, socks, hats, notebooks and whisky stones are all on offer, as are advent calendars.

Barbara Smith, Managing Director of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, said: “We’re delighted to reveal our festive menu and plans for the season. The team has done a wonderful job developing the food, drink and experiences we’ve got planned, making Johnnie Walker Princes Street a must visit destination in December. 

“We’ve enjoyed an incredible first couple of months since we opened our doors. The city of Edinburgh has welcomed us with open arms, and we’ve enjoyed every minute we’ve spent hosting our local, national and international guests. We look forward to celebrating with you all this festive season.”

To book and for more information visit www.johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com.

For more information on Johnnie Walker please visit: www.johnniewalker.com

Johnnie Walker Princes Street Festive Price List:

Food & Beverage:

1820 Bar festive set menu: £37.50pp

Blue Label Room private dining menu: £130pp

Experiences:

Hogmanay: £165pp

Journey of Flavour Tour: from £25pp

Casks of Discovery:  from £95pp

Retail:

Johnnie Walker Princes Street Bottle Your Own Winter Edition: £80

Johnnie Walker Black Label Princes Street Edition: £35

Johnnie Walker Black Label Icons 2.0 Edition: £31

Johnnie Walker Crackers: £15

Advent Calendars: £50

Urban Union helps Edinburgh’s homeless with Christmas donation

Regeneration firm Urban Union is donating £1,500 to support homeless charities across Edinburgh this festive season.

Crisis in Scotland will receive a cash boost from the developer behind Pennywell Living, to support people homeless in Scotland this Christmas. The donation has been made in lieu of the firm’s annual staff Christmas party, with Turning Point also being recipients of the donation. 

Crisis in Scotland will be using the money to help its front-line team and 250+ volunteers provide people with hot meals, personalised wellbeing packs, online activities (including entertainment, learning and wellbeing) and a telephone befriending service throughout December.

Urban Union has also embarked on a new partnership with Invisible Cities, an Edinburgh-based social enterprise that trains people affected by homelessness to become walking tour guides.

Work is currently underway on a new tour celebrating the rich history of Glasgow’s Gorbals area which is home to Urban Union’s first development, Laurieston Living.

Neil McKay, Managing Director of Urban Union, said: “Our focus at Urban Union is to not only build new homes, but to create strong relationships and support the communities in which our developments are based.

“We are pleased to be able to support Crisis as well as work with organisations like Turning Point and Invisible Cities, who carry out brilliant work supporting the displaced and vulnerable across Edinburgh and Glasgow.

“We hope our donations will allow them to continue to provide crucial and important services through what are difficult times for many over Christmas.”

Crisis’ Edinburgh Skylight centre provides expert support and advice to homeless people to help them leave homelessness behind for good. How Crisis helps someone depends on their individual needs and situation, so it could be that they help someone to find a home and settle in, work together to help them gain new skills and find a job, or improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Kirsty Potter, Fundraising Manager from Crisis in Scotland, said: “We are very grateful for this generous donation from Urban Union which will make a real difference to people in Scotland without a home this Christmas.

“It will help bring comfort and dignity to people being supported in hotels, BnBs and other forms of temporary accommodation this Christmas. Everyone deserves a home, and donations like this will help people in incredibly challenging situations access the support they need to end their homelessness for good.”

City of Edinburgh Council’s Convener of Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work, Councillor Kate Campbell said: “We’ve worked together to put our most vulnerable residents first during this crisis – but the biggest challenges are still to come.

“Making sure people can access the right support when and where they need it is an absolute priority. So it’s great to see these funds going to Crisis and Turning Point to help them help others. Particularly at this time of year”

Urban Union will also be donating funds to Turning Point Scotland which provides support for people who are dealing with mental health conditions, learning disabilities or are homeless.

The charity has led the way in its introduction of the Housing First approach to homelessness in Scotland – by granting secure accommodation as a first step in addressing the issues that led to the situation, rather than the last and being given as proof of recovery.

In addition to the donations, the regeneration specialist has partnered with Invisible Cities to train up to eight people who have experienced homelessness and develop a new walking tour proposed to launch in early 2021.

The group will undertake training to help with confidence building, public speaking and customer service skills and have the opportunity to become an official Invisible Cities guide or access further support to pursue a career path of interest to them.

Urban Union regenerates areas across Scotland to create revitalised communities through building new, high quality, affordable homes.

Across each of its developments, Urban Union aims to deliver sustainable long-term benefits to the new and surrounding neighbourhoods, with job and training opportunities, ensuring the community will benefit from the projects for years to come.

Edinburgh Police launch festive safety campaign

keep safePolice in Edinburgh have launched their annual campaign to keep people safe during the festive season.

As part of Operation Greenland, (formerly Operation Astrodome) officers in the city centre will each day issue a special ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo on social media. The image will relate to a specific theme of festive safety or update the public on policing activity being carried out over Christmas and New Year.

The public can receive these images and updates by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and by following the @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.

Social media users can also join in the discussion about the campaign by using the hashtag #OpGreenland.

As always, officers within the Capital will provide a high-visibility presence across the city in the coming weeks to offer a range of crime prevention and personal safety advice.

In addition, police will specifically target busy areas and destinations during the holiday season to distribute specially designed leaflets that inform the public on how to ‘Shop Safe’ and ‘Party Safe’.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Divisional Commander for the City of Edinburgh said: “Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful, vibrant and safe cities in the world, and the policing plans we’re announcing today means this is set to continue into the festive season and beyond.

“The city is already getting busier, with locals and visitors taking full advantage of the shopping and attractions on offer, and many people will soon be out enjoying festive nights out in the restaurants, pubs and clubs.

“We are keen to ensure people can have a safe and enjoyable time whilst soaking up the fantastic atmosphere that the city has to offer.”

Community Safety Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day, said: “Edinburgh is a safe place to visit and to live in, and our winter festival attracts people from around the world each year.

“We want to make sure that everyone will enjoy themselves and stay safe. I urge revellers to keep an eye on their belongings during a night out and to act responsibly.

“Working closely with the police and other agencies, our community safety wardens will be conducting high visibility patrols. Starting at the end of November, extra patrols will be out on Friday and Saturday evenings, and there will be a daily focus on the winter festival area.”

Ch Supt Williams said there are a number of simple steps you can take whilst enjoying the festive season. “Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and keep your property safe when out and about. If you’re enjoying a night out in town then please drink responsibly and don’t let excessive alcohol consumption ruin your evening.

“This will also be our most interactive festive season yet and through social media we will issue a new ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo each day with further information and advice. Members of the public can view these images by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and following our @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.

“Updates on all Operation Greenland activity will also be available on these sites, as well as our @EdinburghPolice Twitter account, which covers the entire city.”