July 2025 – Page 33 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Water scarcity remains a concern despite recent rainfall

Despite the recent rainfall over the last week, it has been insufficient to see much recovery across most of Scotland, with low river flows persisting, particularly in the east.

Although rain is forecast over the coming days, SEPA say well above-average rainfall will be needed to reverse the effects of the long dry spell. We are continuing to urge water users to be vigilant as parts of the country remain under pressure.

Eight river catchments all remain at Moderate Scarcity – the Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don, Dee, Esk, Firth of Tay and Tyne. The Findhorn, Firth of Forth and Almond catchments remain at Alert, however in the far north, southeast and southwest, there has been some improvement in river flows and ground conditions with the Wick, Helmsdale and Tweed catchments recovered to Early Warning.

Many of the areas in Moderate Scarcity have had less than 70% of their average rainfall since the start of the year. The result is that, for the first half of the year, many of the associated river flow stations have had the highest number of days at low flows on record. The time record of some of these river flow stations span almost 100 years.

Scotland’s water scarcity levels are grounded in current data, not forecasts. SEPA’s team of specialists maintain and calibrate a national network of river flow stations — a science-led system that gives an accurate picture of pressures on our rivers, lochs, and water supplies.

With the rivers already stressed after months of below average rainfall even brief periods of rain over the summer often will not have the impact the public might expect. Water may not soak into the ground properly or evenly enough to reverse the pressure. This means warmer temperatures, lower oxygen, and shrinking channels will increase pressure on fish, aquatic life, and habitats.

Kenny Boag, Head of Environmental Performance (National) from SEPA said: “We’ve had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery.

“Although there has been relief in the West, most of the East Coast continues to experience water stress. Many catchments remain under significant pressure and the water environment is still in a vulnerable state. More rain is forecast over the next few days, but we need sustained rainfall in the right places over weeks, not just days, to make a real difference.

“We welcome the proactive steps taken by many abstractors, especially in areas of Alert and Moderate scarcity who have already been planning ahead and taking steps to use water efficiently. We urge them to continue to do that as we won’t wait until the situation reaches crisis point to act, and we don’t expect water users to either.

“We will continue to work closely with abstractors and sectors using water from our environment in the areas facing sustained water scarcity. Clear, early communication is being provided so no one is caught off guard. We know how important water is to the Scottish economy, particularly sectors like farming, food and drink, and energy – and we also know that without a healthy water environment those sectors cannot thrive.”

SEPA continues to urge everyone from farmers and producers to industry and manufacturers to use water efficiently and manage this shared resource responsibly. Advice is available on SEPA’s website, as well as from SEPA staff contacting abstractors with licences in areas at risk.

Early Warning areas – conditions are dry, but no action is currently required. Abstractors should begin preparing for potential action.
Alert areas – water levels are low. SEPA advises voluntary reductions in non-essential water use.
Moderate Scarcity areas – there are clear environmental impacts. Action is expected from abstractors to protect rivers and the species that rely on them.

SEPA have issued advice against bathing at Dunbar East Bathing Water.

A routine sample showed a high level of bacteria. They also received a report from a member of the public about possible sewage near the site. This was reported to Scottish Water.

As a precaution, SEPA have updated the bathing water signage at Dunbar East to advise against entering the water.

This advice will remain in place until water quality returns to a satisfactory level.

SEPA will take further samples on 7 July.

We are working closely with @ELCouncil and @scottish_water to monitor the situation and keep the public informed.

More info: https://beta.sepa.scot/news/2025/advice-against-bathing-at-dunbar-east/

For the latest updates and to find your local bathing water, please visit dedicated site at https://bathingwaters.sepa.org.uk

Have you seen Nihat?

*** UPDATE – NIHAT HAS BEEN TRACED ***

POLICE are appealing for the public’s assistance in tracing a missing man from the north of the city.

Nihat Karani, 63, was last seen at around 9.30pm last night (Thursday, 3 July, 2025) in the Royston Mains Crescent area. He left here on foot and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

He is described as around 5ft 6ins tall, of stocky build, with grey/white hair and a moustache. He wears glasses which he has on a chain around his neck and was last seen wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.

Nihat’s first language is Bulgarian and he speaks limited English.

Inspector George Nisbet from Drylaw Police Station said: “Nihat knows the city and is known to visit Edinburgh’s park and green spaces, but he rarely does this alone.

“He walks with a walking stick which he had in his possession when he was last seen.

“We have a number of police resources looking for Nihat and I would ask anyone who may have seen him, or a man matching his description, to report this to us as soon as possible.”

Those with information should contact Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 0196 of 4 July 2025.

Hibs to unveil The Pat Stanton Stand

Hibernian FC is delighted to announce that the East Stand will be renamed as the new Pat Stanton Stand, honouring the legend’s iconic career.

Ahead of the Club’s 150th anniversary, Stanton’s impact on Hibernian FC and Scottish football has been recognised with his name sitting proudly at the top of the old East Stand.

Growing up a Hibs fan and watching from the terraces, Stanton joined his beloved club in 1963 before making his debut shortly after at the tender age of 19 years and 22 days. From that moment on he never looked back.

A calm, composed midfielder, he developed from a talented youngster into one of the best players in the Scottish game going on to win the SFWA Footballer of the Year award in 1969/70.

Establishing himself as a leader on the pitch, Stanton became Hibs captain and helped lead his side to win the Scottish League Cup in December 1972, scoring the opener as Hibs beat Celtic 2-1 at Hampden Park. He also helped lift two Drybrough Cups.

Pat Stanton was known for his ability to read the game, his tackling, and range of passing, and those three qualities were influential as Hibs beat local rivals Hearts 0-7 at Tynecastle in 1973, and recorded memorable victories over Napoli and Sporting Lisbon in Europe.

It was during his time at Hibs where he made his Scotland debut in 1966. He earned 16 caps in total and captained his nation on three occasions.

In 1976, he ended his 13-year spell at his hometown club, and in total made 617 appearances, scoring 78 goals.

After two years at Celtic, over 40,000 people turned out for his testimonial match, celebrating his career. He is regarded as one of Hibernian’s greatest ever players and is widely considered to be one of the finest Scottish players in the history of the game.

After hanging up his boots, Stanton was Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Aberdeen before going on to manage Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline, and then his beloved Hibs. He has been involved with the Club in different capacities ever since.

Hibernian FC Chairman Ian Gordon commented: “It’s with great pride and pleasure that we are honouring Pat Stanton’s amazing contribution to Hibernian FC and Scottish football during our anniversary season.

“The Pat Stanton Stand will serve as a lasting tribute to his achievements and legacy, inspiring future players and supporters for many years to come.

“On behalf of everyone associated with Hibs – the fans, the board, the staff, the players, the entire Hibernian Family – I would like to thank Pat for everything he’s done for the Club.”

Reigniting the spirit of volunteering in Scotland

Earlier in June, we marked the 40th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week 2025, a moment to celebrate the extraordinary impact of volunteers across Scotland. From 2 to 8 June, organisations, communities and individuals came together to recognise the essential role volunteers play in shaping a more compassionate and connected society (writes FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP).

Behind every community hub, crisis helpline and mentoring programme in Scotland, there is a volunteer quietly making a difference.

This year’s campaign came at a critical time. Volunteering rates, particularly in Edinburgh and across Lothian, have seen a worrying decline. They are down around 8 per cent since 2019, as a result of pandemic disruptions, the rising cost of living and reduced funding for volunteer support programmes. Yet across food banks, youth services and elderly care, the calls for help continue to rise. The need for volunteers has never been greater.

In response, Inspiring Scotland commissioned Catalysts for Change, a new report exploring what motivates people to volunteer, the barriers they face, and how Scotland’s volunteering landscape can evolve. The report was launched during Volunteers’ Week and shared with the Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Party Group on Volunteering, offering practical and timely recommendations to strengthen recruitment, engagement and retention.

Two of Inspiring Scotland’s initiatives bring this work to life. The Specialist Volunteer Network brings together professionals who offer their time and expertise to support charities and community organisations.

Meanwhile, Intandem, a mentoring programme for care-experienced young people, is entirely powered by volunteer mentors. Last year alone, more than 280 volunteers provided consistent weekly support to young people navigating life in or on the edge of the care system.

During the most recent Cross-Party Group meeting, several organisations spoke about the far-reaching benefits of volunteering for both communities and individual wellbeing. Vintage Vibes, a project combatting loneliness among Edinburgh’s older population, matches isolated individuals with committed volunteers. One pairing, Natalia and Maja, shared the joy, connection and sense of purpose their weekly visits bring to both their lives.

Similarly, the RNLI, where volunteers fill 97 per cent of frontline roles, emphasised how life-saving work in schools and coastal communities depends on public goodwill and civic action.

One volunteer, Rachel, described how volunteering gave her confidence, a sense of community, and a renewed sense of direction, something that positively influenced her career. It is proof that volunteering may begin as an act of giving, but it often gives you so much more in return.

While Volunteers’ Week is a national moment of recognition, the value of volunteering is felt year-round. Whether by offering time, skills or simply a listening ear, volunteers form the backbone of Scotland’s social infrastructure. From mentoring teens to delivering meals to vulnerable neighbours, their quiet work touches every corner of our society.

As Co-Convener of the Cross-Party Group on Volunteering, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who dedicates their time to supporting others.

But appreciation alone is not enough. We must make it easier for people to get involved by offering more flexible opportunities, investing in local initiatives, and creating pathways that remove barriers to participation.

By working together, we can rebuild a thriving culture of volunteering and ensure that no community is left behind.

The Scottish Government must match recognition with meaningful investment, stronger coordination, and long-term policy support to help volunteering thrive across the country.

To explore local volunteering opportunities, visit https://volunteer.scot

You can also read the full Inspiring Scotland report: Catalysts for Change: Understanding the motivations of volunteers in Scotland (new report published)

Local school kids team up with viral Grammy-longlisted young rappers to create new rap song in Irish and Scottish Gaelic

Young musicians (aged 9-12) from Edinburgh and Cork are breaking new grounds with a unique hybrid international hip-hop collaboration, blending Irish and Scottish Gaelic in a creative celebration of language, culture, and connection.

The project, led by Cork’s Kabin Crew (the collective behind the Grammy Award longlisted viral hit ‘The Spark’) and Tinderbox Collective, brings together nine young artists from Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce (Parkside Primary School), a Gaelic-medium primary school in Edinburgh and five experienced young performers from the Kabin Studio’s ‘Kabin Crew’ project in Cork, who have been co-writing a rap song exploring their shared heritage.

Funded by the Foras na Gaeilge – Colmcille Fund, and supported by Barr na gCnoc, University College Cork, the initiative has seen the group connect through eight online writing sessions, where they have shared stories, built friendships, and co-written a rap track that explores the theme “Edinburgh vs Cork.” 

During the online sessions, the young artists shared stories about their hometowns, swapped slang, and exchanged other phrases in Irish and Scots Gaelic. The writing process became a cultural exchange as much as a musical one.

Each group writes in their own language, yet the similarities between Irish and Scots Gaelic have sparked a lot of interest, fun and humour, which really highlights the deep linguistic and cultural ties between Scotland and Ireland. The result is a vibrant, joyful track that reflects their creativity, curiosity, and cultural pride.

Jed Milroy, General Manager at Tinderbox Collective, said: “Tinderbox Collective are so excited to be collaborating with The Kabin Studio on this unique creative project.

“Their ambitious approach to making youth music both accessible as well as of the highest quality is truly inspiring for us all and to be part of them using that platform to promote Gaelic and Irish is a real honour. Long may it continue!”

From grass-roots youth work to award-winning productions, Tinderbox aims to ignite a spark in people – one which fills them with confidence, imagination, and sense of possibility, and helps them achieve things they never thought possible.

Their work uses music and the arts to bring people together and strengthen communities, providing exciting opportunities to those who need them most, and supporting young people to build their confidence, skills, self-esteem, and professional experience.

Máire Dineen, Programme Manager at Kabin Crew, said: “The Kabin Studio is delighted to be part of this project and looks forward to building new relationships with our Scottish friends through music and language.”

The collaboration will culminate in a professional recording and music video. Five of the Edinburgh participants will travel to Cork on 27th June to record the track at the Kabin Studio, while five members of Kabin Crew will later visit Edinburgh to film the video alongside their new collaborators.

The Kabin Studio, based in Knocknaheeny, Cork, is a dynamic youth music and creative hub known for empowering young people through songwriting, rap, and performance. It provides a safe and inspiring space for young artists to express themselves, collaborate, and develop their talents.

Talking about this project, Heidi from Kabin Crew, said: “I feel it’s an amazing way for kids in the North Side to learn Irish and Gaelic.

“I can’t wait to meet my new friends in Edinburgh, they were really nice over Zoom, super sweet and I can’t wait to meet them”

Archie, aged 10, from Edinburgh said – “It’s been working really well getting to write a song in Gaelic and Irish and meeting the Kabin Studio guys.

“It’s really interesting to meet Irish Gaelic rappers. I hope is that if we keep doing this we could get as famous as the Kabin Crew!”

By writing and performing in Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic, these young artists are helping to bring these rich, historically underrepresented languages to audiences who wouldn’t usually engage with them and showing them that Gaelic languages are not only alive but thriving in the voices of the next generation.

The Tinderbox and Kabin Crew collaboration will be released later this year.

Swinney pays tribute to Scottish recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem

First Minister marks lives given in public service

First Minister John Swinney has paid tribute to the eight Scottish recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem.

The emblem is awarded posthumously to family members of those who died in public service. It is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or a terrorist attack.

The First Minister said: “I warmly welcome the awarding of The Elizabeth Emblem to these individuals and their families.

“This recognition enables us to remember their sacrifice and their lives dedicated to public service. They made Scotland a better place for us all and we continue to honour their memory.”

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray said: “I pay tribute to all of those Scots who have been recognised today. Every one of these brave public servants gave their life to protect others. They are people who stepped forward when most of us would step back, and they paid the ultimate price.

“I am particularly pleased that Dunblane teacher Gwen Mayor has been recognised. No-one will ever forget the horror of the shooting at Dunblane Primary School in 1996, when Mrs Mayor was killed trying to protect her pupils.

“I hope that the families of all those recognised will take some comfort in knowing that their loved ones, and their service, has not been forgotten.”

The family of Dunblane Primary School teacher Gwen Mayor including her husband Rodney Mayor said: “As a family we are extremely proud and honoured to be receiving this award on behalf of Gwen. We always believed her actions that day deserved more recognition.

“You would have to have known Gwen to know that she would have done whatever trying to protect the children in her care. She paid the ultimate price for that commitment. Finally we now feel that she has been honoured for what happened that day.”

The full list of Scottish recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem are:

Joseph Stewart Drake, a Constable with Stirling and Clackmannan Constabulary. He died on 11 August 1967 when a stolen lorry intentionally struck his car at Dennyloanhead as he tried to intercept it.
Gwen Mayor, Primary 1 teacher at Dunblane Primary School died on 13 March 1996 alongside 15 of her pupils when a gunman entered the school.

Rodney (Rod) Moore, a retired NHS paramedic from Falkirk with 40 years’ service, rejoined the Scottish Ambulance Service to support its Covid-19 response and died on 21 November 2020 having contracted coronavirus.
Roderick Nicolson, a Scottish Fire & Rescue Service firefighter died at Perth Harbour on 4 December 1995. He was attempting to rescue workers who became trapped in a silo filled with five tonnes of sodium carbonate ash.
Richard Paul North, a Constable with Tayside Police died on 17 March 1987. He was on duty driving a marked police patrol car when it collided with another vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was under the influence of drink and drugs.
William Oliver of the Glasgow Salvage Corps died at the Cheapside Street whisky bond fire on 28 March 1960. He was instantly killed alongside 18 others when some casks ruptured causing a massive boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion.
Ewan Williamson, a Scottish Fire & Rescue Service firefighter with Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service. He became trapped in a fire at the Balmoral Bar public house in Edinburgh and died on 12 July 2009.
Alastair Soutar, of HM Customs and Excise died of his injuries on 29 July 1996 after he was crushed between ‘The Sentinel’ HM Customs and Excise vessel and the ‘Ocean Jubilee’ smugglers vessel. Mr Soutar, from Dundee, was participating in Operation Balvenie to apprehend drug smugglers.

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Mental Health Foundation: Panic Attacks

Panic attacks can be frightening. But there are things you can do during a panic attack that help, like breathing and grounding techniques.

A panic attack can be caused by a traumatic or very stressful life experience.

If you’re having lots of panic attacks, you might be diagnosed with a panic disorder – and there’s help available for this.

Read our guide on panic attacks: https://bit.ly/3YNWmfG

Goa Tourism Showcase in Edinburgh

Goa Tourism Unveils Regenerative Travel Vision

India’s coastal gem reimagines itself beyond beaches and casinos at landmark cultural showcase, drawing dignitaries and Scottish Tourism Leaders

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), in collaboration with a Scotland-based cultural initiative, unveiled its bold new identity as a global leader in regenerative tourism.

Hosted at the elegant elegant Virgin Hotels in Edinburgh on 27th June, the event drew senior Indian delegates, British parliamentarians, cultural leaders, and tourism innovators into a shared dialogue to promote Goa’s evolving identity as a hub for regenerative tourism, wellness, and cultural heritage.

A Prestigious Gathering

The event was spearheaded by Dr. Naval Kumar Verma, Advisor (Medical & Wellness Tourism) to GTDC, who travelled from India alongside Mr. Parvesh Shukla, Director of Worldwide Travel and NRI Head at Rejoice Health Foundation, and Mr. Jigar Bhaglia, Deputy Chair of Selly Oak Conservatives.

The evening was graced by MP Christine Jardine and MP Dr. Scott Arthur, alongside respected voices from Scotland’s tourism, education, and cultural diplomacy sectors. Celebrated author and India advocate Ms. Aline Dobbie also graced the gathering, underscoring the evening’s spirit of Indow-Scottish amity.

Celebrating Culture and Connection

The programme opened with the auspicious lamp lighting ceremony, symbolising unity and enlightment, led jointly by the Indian and Scottish dignitaries.

A captivating Odissi performance by classical dancer Shilpi Dhar set the cultural tone for the evening. The event was seamlessly emceed with warmth by Mrs. Nidhi Walker, a bridge between Indian roots and Scottish identity.

In a keynote that stirred minds and hearts, Dr. Verma presented Goa’s pioneering approach as India’s first state to embrace regenerative tourism — a paradigm that transcends sustainability, focusing on restoring ecosystems, empowering local communities, and preserving and honoring cultural legacies.

“Goa is not just about beaches and casinos,” said Dr. Verma. “It’s a land of Ayurveda, spiritual heritage, waterfalls, wellness festivals, and sacred sites — where tourists can now leave a positive impact through mindful travel.”

Speeches from Dr. Scott Arthur, MP Christine Jardine, Ms. Aline Dobbie, and Ms. Preena Verma echoed these themes emphasizing the potential for India and Scotland to build equitable, eco-conscious partnerships in tourism and culture.

A Colourful Cultural Showcase

The showcase culminated in an exuberant cultural segment that brought Goa’s vibrant spirit to life. Youthful performers Aarya, Tiara, Aadhya, and Anoushka enchanted the audience with traditional Goan dance, culminating in a breathtaking Kathak recital by Himadri, whose elegant footwork drew heavy applause.

Curated short films transported attendees to Goa’s diverse landscapes — from spice plantations to colonial-era churches, serene temples to Sufi shrines — painting a cinematic portrait of a state where spirituality, biodiversity, and community coalesce.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, affirming a shared vision between India and the UK: one where tourism becomes a transformative force for cultural diplomacy and planetary stewardship.

About Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC)

GTDC is the official body under the Government of Goa responsible for the promotion and development of tourism in the state. GTDC is committed to positioning Goa as a holistic destination that champions regenerative tourism, wellness, and heritage.

Scottish Government: Bringing more empty homes back into use

More support for local authorities

Additional empty homes officers are being recruited to bring more privately owned houses back into use.

The new posts are being supported as part of a £2 million investment through the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership in 2025-26 which will see staff take a more proactive and targeted approach to tackling local housing issues.

Funding will also help to train and induct new staff, grow services and ensure empty homes are utilised, including by increasing support for local authorities to make compulsory purchase orders.

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Bringing homes back into use is a vital part of our plan to tackle the housing emergency. When too many families are struggling to find somewhere to live, it is unacceptable to me that that houses should lie empty.

“It’s important to help councils step up measures to turn privately-owned empty properties into much-needed homes and it’s encouraging that local authorities have already come forward to make use of this support.

“As the First Minister has set out, this government is determined to eradicate child poverty – and tackling the housing emergency by making sure families have access to a home is a crucial part of that.”

Scottish Empty Homes Partnership National Manager Tahmina Nizam said: “Every home matters as we work together to end Scotland’s housing emergency.

“In councils across the country Empty Homes Officers are delivering results, with over 11,000 homes having brought back into use since 2010. The additional posts supported by this funding will expand on that vital work.

“New Empty Homes Officers are already in post at City of Edinburgh Council, while recruitment is underway in several other local authorities.

“Homes weren’t built to sit empty; every empty home has the potential to transform a family or individuals’ life but collectively they have an enormous role to play in reducing housing need and tackling the housing emergency.

“We look forward to welcoming more new Empty Homes Officers as they come into post and supporting their efforts to bring more homes back into use.”