Would you like to take part in a textile art project in your community?
Share and gain stitching skills, meet other people and exchange knowledge and stories in this fascinating project facilitated by local artist Tamsin Grainger.
Members of the Granton community are invited to participate in stitching / embroidering a large collective map of Granton featuring plants and wildlife from participants’ places of origin and Granton.
The final Granton Nature Map will be hung at Royston Wardieburn Commumnity Centre and Granton Hub.
You can meet Tamsin at the library for a starter session on 7th September at 6.30pm.
Please note – You do not have to be confident in sewing to take part.
MUM LISA MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF SON JOHN’S MURDER
The Knife Angel arrived in Edinburgh yesterday and will be on display at Kirkgate, at the bottom of Leith Walk, until Sunday 27 September.
Created by artist Alfie Bradley and the British Ironworks Centre, the Knife Angel is made from around 100,000 knives and blades surrendered through police forces across the country.
The sculpture stands as a powerful reminder of the impact violence can have on individuals, families and communities, while acting as a catalyst for social change.
An opening ceremony marked the official launch, with Council Leader Jane Meagher, Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, and community representatives including Lisa Petrie in attendance.
Lisa’s son John was killed in a knife attack in Leith one year ago today. She said on social media: “A whole year since my son was murdered and I still don’t know how that can be true.
‘Some days it feels like it was only yesterday. I can still feel the shock, the disbelief, the moment my whole world changed forever.
‘And then there are days when it feels like you’ve been gone for far too long. Too long since I’ve heard your voice, seen your face, hugged you, called you my son, heard you shout “ mumzie or “mother!! “
‘I hate that a year has passed without you. I hate that the world has carried on when mine stopped the day you were taken from me.
‘You weren’t meant to leave. You weren’t meant to be a memory. You were meant to be here.
‘I miss you every single day. I’m angry. I’m broken. I’m still trying to understand how I’m supposed to live with the fact that someone chose to take your life.
Alyn Smith has been announced as the new Minister for Innovation, Technology & Tertiary Education.
Subject to parliamentary agreement and the approval of His Majesty the King, Mr Smith will succeed Ben Macpherson, who stepped down last week.
The First Minister made the appointment via video call as Mr Smith is currently suffering a minor illness.
The First Minister said: “I am very pleased to appoint Alyn Smith as Minister-designate for Innovation, Technology & Tertiary Education.
“Alyn is one of the most experienced parliamentarians in the UK, having served in both the European and UK Parliaments before being elected as an MSP. He has broad international experience and has shown long-term interest in skills, universities and colleges.
“Scotland’s future prosperity will be built on the talent of our people, the strength of our universities and colleges, and our ability to turn world-class ideas into jobs, investment and opportunity.
“My new Programme for Government sets out an ambitious agenda for post-school learning and development – from protecting free university tuition, expanding apprenticeships and delivering a new national skills plan, to supporting university research and spin-outs, and connecting business with academic institutions to drive innovation and growth.
“Alyn will work closely with Màiri McAllan to drive that agenda, working across government with other ministers and in partnership with industry and the education and skills sectors to deliver for Scotland’s people, communities and businesses.”
Mr Smith studied Law and European Law at the University of Leeds and completed a Masters degree in European Studies at the College of Europe in Warsaw. After teaching English in India and working with Scotland Europa in Brussels, he qualified as a lawyer and practised commercial law in London and Edinburgh.
In 2002, Mr Smith joined the office of Richard Lochhead MSP before becoming an adviser to the SNP Group in the Scottish Parliament on European, justice and business policy. He was elected as a Member of the European Parliament for Scotland in 2004 and was re-elected in 2009, 2014 and 2019.
Mr Smith served as Member of Parliament for Stirling from 2019 to 2024 before being elected as the MSP for Stirling in May 2026.
Giant Lanterns reaches new heights as Edinburgh Zoo’s popular winter trail returns
The countdown is on for the return of Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns trail with just a few months to go until the popular after-dark experience returns for the winter with an out- of-this-world space safari.
Following its hugely successful return in 2025 after a six year hiatus, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) welcomed more than 96,000 visitors to experience the Giant Lanterns trail with guests describing it as “the most beautiful event they have ever seen”.
Running throughout the whole of winter across 60 nights from Friday 13 November until Sunday 21 February 2027, the display will transform the zoo into a glowing universe filled with spectacular illuminated displays, towering cosmic creatures and dazzling interstellar scenes.
Visitors can wander through glowing galaxies and immerse themselves in a luminous adventure brought to life by more than 1000 handcrafted lanterns and 15,000 LED lights.
Each lantern is carefully crafted and painted by hand, with some of the trail’s more spectacular creations taking 220 hours to complete resulting in a dazzling collection of illuminated wildlife, cosmic creatures and larger than life displays, offering countless photo opportunities and interactive moments along the route.
New for this year, visitors will also be able to glide through the galaxy with walk-through planets spanning 12 metres and stand amongst animal giants such as an owl with a 7 metre wingspan, all of which are set to be one of the standout sights of the winter experience.
Lindsay Ross, events and experiences manager at RZSS, said:“We were blown away by the response to Giant Lanterns returning. This year we are taking the experience to a whole new universe.
“This is our biggest lantern trail yet with glowing planets and sparkling constellations to incredible galactic beasts, every turn offers something unexpected. Whether you are visiting with family, friends or simply looking for a magical winter evening out there is something to inspire visitors of every age.
“From the species represented in the lanterns to the conservation work they support, we hope the trail will not only create a magical winter experience but also inspire visitors to learn more about the wildlife around us and the work being done to protect it. Every ticket sold helps support RZSS’s vital wildlife conservation work in Scotland and around the world making every visit even more meaningful.”
Originally founded in 1941 as the ‘Edinburgh Old People’s Welfare Council’ by three local women, LifeCare was a trailblazer, being one of the first such organisations to be created in Scotland. Adopting our current name in 2005, LifeCare has seen lots of growth and innovation; however, tackling loneliness has remained at the heart of everything we do since day one.
Today, LifeCare has 2 day clubs, its Outreach and Help at Home services, Meals on Wheels, a thriving community centre with free carers’ classes, and community events and activities, and last year alone supported 1,140 people to live well and stay independent. LifeCare is needed now more than ever, with 3 in 5 people over 50 experiencing loneliness in Scotland, and isolation increasing the risk of dementia by 60%. People are at the heart of everything we do. Help us be here for the next 85 years and continue to fight against loneliness.
A dedicated, all-female team of Edinburgh-based Financial Advisers from PW & Partners, took on a challenging 25k sponsored walk from Prestonpans to Gorgie Road, to raise funds for the House of Hope, Scotland’s first dedicated wellbeing centre for people impacted by breast cancer and their families.
A cause close to their hearts, the 16 strong team went the extra mile to mark PW & Partners 25th Anniversary, by giving back to the local charity that supported staff member Leigh Philp’s Mum, during her breast cancer journey.
The House of Hope offers a sanctuary where those impacted by breast cancer and their families can access support services, holistic treatments, exercise classes and wellbeing sessions.
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Leigh Philp, Paraplanner at PW & Partners said: “My mum was unfortunately diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2024, five years after her primary diagnosis.
“Other than online forums and groups, she was not sure where else she could turn to for support other than family and friends.
“When The House of Hope opened in 2025, we went along to have a look, and she was so glad that we did. The house is so beautiful, very homely, and welcoming.
“They offer different sessions, support groups, treatments, holistic therapies, exercise classes and 1:1 support, with a weekly timetable, and a fabulous kitchen seating area, where you can just pop in at your leisure for a cuppa and a chat.
“The team are so friendly and make you so welcome.”
Established in 2001, PW & Partners continues to go from strength the strength as it celebrates its Silver Anniversary. Directors Shonagh Livingstone, Fellow and Chartered Financial Planner and Martha Martindale, Financial Adviser, lead the award-winning team of expert financial specialists, who genuinely care about their clients and their families.
Shonagh Livingstone said: “We’re delighted to support the House of Hope during our 25th anniversary year.
“As an all-female business, raising awareness of breast cancer is so important. We know how The House of Hope has helped Leigh’s family and some of our clients too. Giving back to a local charity that we feel close to is a fantastic way to mark our 25th year.”
To build on their 25th Anniversary celebrations, PW & Partners has also been announced as the silver sponsor for the House of Hope’s Strictly for Hope Gala Ball, taking place at Prestonfield House on 4th September.
Martha Martindale said: “After our challenging 25k walk we’re all really looking forward to the Strictly for Hope Gala Ball to help raise funds for the House of Hope.
“It’s an honour to be this year’s silver sponsor and we’re sure it will be a fantastic evening of entertainment, inspiring stories and fundraising.”
The glittering Strictly themed gala ball is the House of Hope’s biggest fundraising event of the year and will include showcase performances from Strictly legends Pasha Kovalev and Kristina Rihanoff, to raise vital funds for the wellbeing services provided by The House of Hope.
Centre Manager at The House of Hope, Hazel McLinden said: “The support and enthusiasm received from the team at PW & Partners has been outstanding and we’re thrilled to be part of the firm’s 25th anniversary celebrations and extremely grateful for the generosity of the donations and support shown during their 25k walk. Well done and thank you to everyone involved.”
Visit houseofhope.org.uk to find out more about The House of Hope and fundraising events.
Great rates Standard Fee: £26.50 Concession Fee/Reduced Fee £21.00
SUBURBAN STROLLS
There is just time to enrol on a gentle weekly walking tour, filled with fascinating facts about the city of Edinburgh – learn about the local history, interesting people and buildings.
Excellent all over well being. Starts 8th September
Mattel’s Thomas & Friends launches nationwide prize draw for nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools that sign up to Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
This year, Mattel’s Thomas & Friends have come on-board to support Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day campaign.
Thomas the Tank Engine will be appointed as Save the Children’s Chief Delivery Officer for Christmas Jumper Day and will be the first-ever locomotive to choo-choose to support the annual festive fundraiser and help keep it on track.
Together, Thomas and Save the Children will help deliver festive joy to children in the UK and around the world who need it most.
Save the Children’s annual Christmas Jumper Day is taking place on Thursday 10th December 2026 and to help encourage more children than ever to sign up and take part, Mattel is launching a nationwide prize draw for nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools.
Schools and nurseries that register by Tuesday 1st December
Nursery – A Day Out With Thomas adventure, where one nursery class of up to 30 children, plus up to 4 teachers/chaperones can enjoy a ride on a full-sized Thomas engine and child-friendly activities. Subject to availability.
Primary – An unforgettable full-day visit for one winning primary school class to Drayton Manor Resort, home of Thomas Land, with access to over 50 rides and attractions throughout the park. Includes admission to Thomas Land, reasonable return group/coach travel, lunch for all attendees and parking where applicable.
Secondary – One exclusive interactive STEM-focused workshop with a Mattel designer at your school, where students can discover the creative process behind some of their favourite toys and bring ideas to life.
Get your jumper out. You don’t have to buy a new one, upcycle an old jumper with tinsel and baubles.
Donate to Save the Children. By having fun and raising money, you’re supporting children in the UK and around the world.
When you sign up to Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day, you’ll receive a free fundraising pack with lesson plans, festive activities and all the information you need to plan the merriest day ever.
Kristina Arora, Head of Christmas Jumper Day, from Save the Children said:“With Thomas the Tank Engine coming on-board for the 2026 campaign we hope that more children than ever will sign up and take part.
By launching an exclusive prize draw for anyone who signs up to Christmas Jumper Day this year, our incredible partner Mattel is helping us to bring communities together for the festive season. The more money we raise this Christmas, the more impact we can have on the lives of children who need it most.”
“For generations, Thomas & Friends has inspired children through stories of friendship, teamwork and helping others, so we’re incredibly proud to support Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day this year,” said Nancy Molenda, Vice President of Global Corporate Events and Philanthropy at Mattel.
“As Thomas takes on his new role as Chief Delivery Officer, we’re excited to help bring even more schools, nurseries and families together for a day of festive fun that can make a real difference to children who need it most, helping keep this year’s campaign on track.”
Plus, spend £15 at the snacks counter and receive a FREE scratchcard with a guaranteed reward on National Cinema Weekend
Cineworld is celebrating National Cinema Weekend on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, giving film fans the chance to experience the biggest movies on the biggest screens for just £4. For the first time ever, Cars and Obsession are both playing in 4DX for only £4!
All weekend long, guests can watch any film, at any time, in any format for just £4 at Cineworld cinemas nationwide. That includes premium experiences 4DX, ScreenX and Superscreen, as well as recliner seating. IMAX tickets will be available for just £6 – only £2 more.
And there’s more. This National Cinema Weekend, guests who spend £15 or more at the snacks counter will receive a FREE scratchcard with a guaranteed reward, only at Cineworld. Every card is a winner, giving moviegoers another reason to make a weekend of it. We are also running a Merchandise sale, with merch pieces from favourite films at £1, with the option to buy 3 for £2.50!
The National Cinema Weekend line-up includes some of the year’s biggest releases, including Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Odyssey, Insidious: Out of the Further, The Dog Stars, Rise of the Footsoldier: Retribution and The Death of Robin Hood. Families can also enjoy Minions & Monsters, Toy Story 5, PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, Moana (Live Action) and more – all for just £4.
Film fans can experience The Odyssey the way it was meant to be seen – in IMAX at Cineworld. With IMAX available across 25 Cineworld locations nationwide, audiences can see the epic on the biggest possible canvas for just £6, including at Cineworld Leicester Square’s IMAX with Laser – the only IMAX in London’s West End.
And Spider-Man: Brand New Day is swinging back into 4DX for National Cinema Weekend. Following its record-breaking release, which became the biggest film ever in 4DX, fans have another chance to experience every swing, hit and turn with 4DX’s moving seats and environmental effects – this time for just £4.
Also included in the £4 ticket: ScreenX extends the action across three walls for an immersive 270-degree viewing experience, while Superscreen pairs a huge screen with powerful Dolby Atmos sound.
This coming weekend the perfect chance to catch the films you missed the first time around, or experience your favourite releases of the summer all over again – for just £4.
National Cinema Weekend takes place at Cineworld cinemas nationwide on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September 2026. Tickets are £4 for all films and formats, with IMAX available for £6.
Edinburgh Multicultural Festival is BACK at Lauriston Castle on 20 September featuring Dance, Music, Storytelling, Circus and Crafts from around the globe and celebrating cultural diversity nestled in our city. And you are invited!
Register to attend at the festival Eventbrite page and start counting down the days with us!
and I still don’t know how that can be true.
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