Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

Edinburgh Scottish Thistle Awards regional winners revealed

A historic street, a climate conscious zoo, an inspiring festival, an inclusive visitor attraction and two tourism champions have been crowned Edinburgh’s best at Scotland’s top tourism and events industry awards.  

Six businesses and individuals from the city received awards at the Central and East of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on Thursday night (11 September). 

For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards, this year with new headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, have showcased individual businesses, people and partnership working.

They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries, and inspiring staff. 

Delivered by VisitScotland, in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards combines five regional awards and a national final. 

Winners from across the Capital include:  

Edinburgh Zoo, who took home two awards – Best Visitor Attraction and Climate Action Award, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.  

Judges praised the popular attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.  

Ben Supple, Deputy Chief Executive, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud that Edinburgh Zoo has been named the best visitor attraction in Central and East Scotland. 

“Nature needs us all more than ever and we want everyone who visits the zoo to learn more about our natural world and how they can protect wildlife. 

“Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife. 

“It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award too, including the installation of our new solar meadow.” 

The Real Mary King’s Close was also a double winner, scooping both Employer of the Year and Individual of the Year – General Manager Paul Nixon. 

The historic street sits beneath the Royal Mile, where guests explore authentically preserved 17th-century streets on immersive, one-hour tours led by costumed guides. 

Paul, who also chairs the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Employer of the Year. This award reflects the passion, care and creativity of our brilliant team — the heart of everything we do.

“From wellbeing to development, we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired.” 

And reflecting on his personal accomplishment, Paul added: “It’s an incredible honour to be named Tourism Individual of the Year. I’m fortunate to work in an industry that’s all about people — their stories, experiences and communities.

“This award reflects the brilliant teams I’ve worked with and the passion that drives us all to keep making Scotland’s tourism offer world-class.” 

Edinburgh International Book Festival won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by STV. 

The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering. 

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which celebrates and shares the power of writers, their ideas, and the words they craft to illuminate, challenge, and inspire.

Held in the heart of the city at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, each August it presents almost 700 events featuring writers and thinkers from around the world.

As well as children and families, young adults, adults, and schools programmes, the festival brings writers into community settings such as libraries, hospitals and prisons, and streams events online. 

Jenny Niven, Director & CEO, Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “We’re honoured to be recognised for our work bringing authors and audiences together through a shared love of books, ideas, and conversation. 

“This win is a testament to the creativity, care, and commitment of our team and the many brilliant partners we collaborate with across Scotland and beyond.” 

The Inclusion Award, sponsored by Historic Scotland, was won by Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. 

Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction earned the judges’ favour through initiatives like sensory backpacks and quiet spaces, and their new virtual tour shows thoughtful consideration and offers reassurance and flexibility for all visitors.

These showed their commitment to inclusivity – especially for neurodiverse visitors. 

General Manager Andrew Johnson said: “We are absolutely thrilled to win this award for Inclusivity. 

“It’s a powerful recognition of the commitment our entire team has made to ensure Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and inspired.” 

Finally, The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland was presented to Hugh Mackay from Highland Experience Tours.  

Hugh began his career in the tourism industry in 2024. While working with Highland Experience Tours, he has delivered over 200 tours, received more than 150 individual five-star guest reviews, and contributed to a 12% uplift in overall tour ratings for the company.

He has been praised for his leadership, authenticity, and natural charisma, which has made him a standout ambassador for Scottish tourism and a true rising star. 

Hugh said: “As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”  

VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “A huge well done to all our regional winners for this amazing achievement. Having such strong representation from Edinburgh highlights the quality found across the city. 

“Being recognised by the Scottish Thistle Awards, means tourism businesses are considered some of the best in the country. The awards help to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are praised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities. 

“I wish everyone the best of luck for the national final in November where they will be representing Edinburgh.”  

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage. 

Regional winners for Central and East were announced at a ceremony hosted by radio DJ Grant Stott and delivered by VisitScotland, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts – part of the Abbey Group, a collection of travel companies specialising in inbound tourism to the UK & Ireland.

Winners from all five regional awards, which also include the West, Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA) the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards (delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise) go on to compete at the Scottish Thistle Award national ceremony in November. 

This year’s sponsors also include AccessAble, Fishers, Get Your Guide, Historic Scotland, HIT Scotland, Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), STV, The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.    

PICTURES: Connor Mollison/VisitScotland

 For a full list of winners, please visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk 

Shaun of The Dead, Hot Fuzz and other Edgar Wright classics return to Vue this autumn

From one of Britain’s most acclaimed and beloved filmmakers, classic genre comedies Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz are back on the big screen at Vue this September and October as part of a special Edgar Wright season.

Ahead of his reimagining of the Stephen King’s action-thriller classic The Running Man, the works of the fan-favourite director will once again take centre stage, including his iconic Cornetto Trilogy.

The three cult classics Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World’s End, all starring actors Simon Pegg and Nick Frost as they face off against the undead, a murderous cult and aliens, will be back on the big screen starting from 12 September.

Wright’s other celebrated work – including Scott Pilgrim Vs The World, Baby Driver and psychological horror Last Night In Soho- also make their big screen return throughout October.

Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “At Vue, we celebrate the very best of British filmmaking, and there are few names who have done more for the UK film scene over the past few decades than Edgar Wright. 

“Ahead of his upcoming release The Running Man, we’re excited to showcase his very best work where it belongs – right at home up on the big screen at Vue.”

To find out more, visit myvue.com

Back on the Big Screen at Vue

  • Shaun of the Dead – 13 September
  • Hot Fuzz – 20 September
  • The World’s End – 27 September
  • Scott Pilgrim Vs The World – 10 October
  • Baby Driver – 17 October
  • Last Night In Soho – 24 October

MSP welcomes new carers payment

Gordon Macdonald MSP has welcomed new proposals laid before the Scottish Parliament which will see unpaid carers in Edinburgh receive greater financial support, including a brand-new annual payment worth up to £520 for those who care for more than one person.

The Carer Additional Person Payment is expected to benefit around 18,000 people across Scotland and will form part of the SNP Scottish Government’s new Carer Support benefit package. This marks another milestone in Scotland’s distinct approach to social security, built on the SNP’s principles of dignity, fairness and respect.

Other measures include extending the Young Carer Grant to 19 year olds, widening access to Carer Support following the death of the cared-for person, and easing rules around breaks in caring responsibilities.

Commenting, Gordon Macdonald MSP said:

“Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution in communities across the city, supporting family, friends and neighbours with dedication and love. The SNP is once again showing it recognises that contribution by putting money directly into the pockets of those caring for more than one person.

“This new payment, alongside the existing Carer Support Payment and Carer Supplement, will provide vital help at a time when so many carers are juggling even more financial pressures with the demands of looking after loved ones because of Labour’s austerity measures and cost of living crisis.

“This is another clear example of the SNP doing everything we can with the powers we have to deliver a fairer social security system for Scotland – one rooted in compassion and respect, and that improves lives where Westminster has failed carers for far too long.”

Film and Screen to become part of Scotland’s curriculum

For the first time pupils across Scotland, from age 3 to 18, will have the opportunity to study Film and Screen as a practical arts subject

Screen Scotland, with Education Scotland and Scottish Government has officially launched the national rollout of Film and Screen into Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence.   

Over the last three years, Screen Scotland has devised, designed and delivered a programme to test and evaluate the Film and Screen Curriculum, a curriculum for every level of formal Scottish Education for learners age 3 to 18.

Schools in 30 local authority areas across Scotland, including Shetland, Scottish Borders, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dumfries and Galloway and Angus have been involved in this globally unique programme delivered to over 6000 children across early years, primary and secondary education.

Fi Milligan-Rennie, Head of Education – Screen at Screen Scotland said: “Screen Scotland’s film and screen curriculum creates democracy of opportunity for every child and young person to learn about the film and screen industries in Scotland, to understand how it works and most importantly to recognise that they can be part of it.

“Filmmaking, making television programmes or content online requires the ability to tell stories well, to persuade colleagues to work with you, to gather resources and plan ahead. It builds confidence and we have seen across the development period the tremendous positive impacts it has already had for pupils across Scotland.

“It is thanks to the enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to creatively experiment from schools across the country that we can now celebrate Film and Screen as a subject in its own right.”

The curriculum is endorsed by some of Scotland’s key acting, filmmaking and presenting talent, including James MacAvoy, Lucy Halliday, Mark Bonnar, Julie Wilson Nimmo, Edith Bowman, Chloe Pirrie, Martin Compston, Dougray Scott, Sanjeev Kohli, Mark Cousins and Lauren Lyle.

Neil Millar from Education Scotland said: “Over the last three years I have been proud to work with, and support, the inspiring work that has been undertaken in creating and facilitating the draft Film and Screen Curriculum across Scotland. 

“From the outset, the educational and social impact of the pilot Film and Screen curriculum on schools, teachers and most importantly pupils, has been immense. The proof of this is in the curriculum work developed and showcased by the children and young people themselves.” 

Laura Heggie, Teacher at Graeme High School said: “I’ve been so impressed…by how much the curriculum gives pupils ownership over their own learning. They’re so engaged and want to get it right that they are working and challenging each other within their film crews.

“I can hear them critiquing each other’s work and offering suggestions to improve as I walk round the room. This is unprompted by me. The development in their confidence and ability to contribute has really grown…as they have moved to working within the production groups.” 

Kian McLear, S5 pupil at Drummond Community High School said: “Film and Screen has allowed me to express creativity with my fellow classmates, as well as giving me an in interest in the film industry as a whole.

“There’s a very good balance between practical work and analysis, and there’s never any lessons or practical tasks that drag on.” 

James MacAvoy, Actor and Director said: “Teaching film and screen in schools is the most equitable way to engage in an art form, while demystifying something that can seem distant or inaccessible.

“It’s not just about the next generations of Scottish filmmakers, it’s about understanding the creative right to be seen and heard and making the space and time for that to happen, for every child in Scotland.” 

Julie Wilson-Nimmo, Actor said: “I’m so happy that the Film and Screen curriculum is going on the school curriculum, when I was a young girl growing up in East Kilbride and I went to see my favourite film of all time Gregory’s Girl, I never thought I could be a part of that world, as an actor or behind the camera.

“The fact nursery, primary and secondary kids will be able to tap into this on their school curriculum is amazing. I’m 100% behind it.” 

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “The arts are vital to the success of Scotland’s young people, inspiring them to develop a wide range of skills – film and screen learning is very much part of this story.

“The initial Film and Screen pilots demonstrated the innovation that lies at the heart of Scotland’s curriculum. This further roll out of support and advice to teachers across Scotland will help to support the continued growth of film and screen learning in our classrooms.”

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “I’m delighted to welcome this world-first curriculum, which brings the magic of film and screen to the classroom for learners of all ages. In addition to encouraging untapped creativity, it will be instrumental in the career development of the next generation of Scottish film and screen talent.

“The Scottish Government is clear that a skilled, diverse workforce is essential to the continued success of our screen sector, which is set to be worth £1 billion to Scotland’s economy by 2030.

“Working with Screen Scotland, we are investing in Scottish skills and talent to ensure Scottish voices are represented throughout the production journey, and that this growth leaves a legacy of an ever-stronger crew base across Scotland.”

Kiltwalk: Forever by her side

Rescue Dog’s Memory Lives On Through Kiltwalk Fundraiser for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home

A team of 29 dedicated supporters will be taking on the Edinburgh Kiltwalk on Sunday 14 September to raise vital funds for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home.

Among them is Angelika, who adopted Moose — a Jack Russell who had spent 137 days in the Home’s care — back in 2019.

Last year, Angelika walked the Edinburgh Kiltwalk in support of the charity. This year, she returns to the Kiltwalk with Moose’s ashes in her backpack, honouring her memory and continuing their journey together in spirit.

A confident and bubbly 9-year-old pup, Moose went to the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home when her owners could no longer look after her.  Rehomed by Angelika and Matthew, Moose had lots of adventures with her new family, visiting many European countries, including Germany and Austria, and she loved going on camping trips with them in the Scottish Highlands.

Moose passed away in July, having been diagnosed with cancer two years previously, but Angelika said she lived a happy life right to the end:

“I will never forget the feeling of meeting her for the first time.  We fell in love, and we were wrapped around her paw straight away!

“She was always in the kitchen, between my legs watching me, so the first-time cooking when she wasn’t there was very hard for me.  She was our best friend, our family.”

Last year Angelika did the Kiltwalk in support of the Home and enjoyed it so much that this year she decided to complete both the Glasgow and Edinburgh walks with Matthew and Moose. In April they finished the Glasgow walk.

Angelika remembers: “We had to get up early in the morning and Moose wasn’t a morning riser, but we had to get to Glasgow and she was like ‘are you kidding me?’ But she did it! And at the end of the day she was so happy she got her favourite meal afterwards.”

Angelika will be completing the Edinburgh Kiltwalk on Sunday 14 September and will carry Moose’s ashes in her backpack in memory of her beloved best friend. 

Angelika explained, “She won’t be there, but I still want to take her ashes with me.  She should still be part of the whole process, so I’m going to carry her ashes in my rucksack. 

“It will be difficult, but it means a lot because she was our best friend, I miss her so much.

“I love what the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home do and hope that other dogs will get a good chance, just like Moose got, to find loving homes.”

Angelika has a target of £500 to reach. To donate to Angelika’s Kiltwalk, please visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/page/angelika-grindlay-3?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=EM

To find out more information on cats and dogs available for adoption or how you can make a donation, please visit www.edch.org.uk/donate

Scotland’s east coast faces ‘significant water scarcity’

Scotland faces record water scarcity with 17 catchments at Significant

Scotland’s east coast is facing record pressure on its rivers, with 17 areas now at Significant Scarcity – the highest number since the current version of the National Water Scarcity Plan was introduced. More areas could reach this level in the coming days.

While it is difficult to compare directly with previous years because area boundaries have been refined over time, this year stands out for the scale and duration of low rivers flows. In the Lower Spey, for example, the 2025 season has seen the highest number of low-flow days in a 70-year record.

In response, SEPA have imposed temporary restrictions on licensed abstractions in affected areas. The total number of licence restrictions put in place so far this year is around 270, the highest number SEPA have ever issued.

Significant Scarcity is now affecting the Upper Tweed, Mid-Tweed and Lauderdale, Tyne (Lothian), Fife (East Neuk), Leven (Fife), Lunan Water, Lower Dee and Water of Feugh, South Ugie Water, River Findhorn, Findhorn (East), River Avon, Lower Spey, Deveron, Upper and Lower Don (Aberdeenshire), Ythan and North Fife areas.

All affected licence holders have been issued with letters explaining what they need to do, with the time and date the restrictions come into effect. SEPA officers are out in catchments daily, monitoring conditions and supporting abstractors.

The River Lossie will reach Significant Scarcity on Friday. Unless there is sustained rainfall over the coming days the Brodie, River Helmsdale, Cromarty Firth (North), Inverness (East), River Nairn, Kyle of Sutherland and River Carron areas are due to go to Significant Scarcity next week.

While some rain is forecast, it is not yet clear whether this will be enough to see rivers recover enough to lift restrictions. SEPA will monitor the situation closely.

Regional conditions

North-East

Significant Scarcity: Deveron, Ythan, Upper and Lower Don, Lower Dee and Water of Feugh

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Dee

Speyside

Significant Scarcity: Lower Spey, River Findhorn, Findhorn East, River Avon, and from Friday the River Lossie

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Findhorn (Brodie and River Nairn), Mid and Upper Spey

Highlands and Islands

Moderate Scarcity: Helmsdale, Shin, Conon, Inverness (East)

Alert: River Naver, Thurso, Orkney

Early Warning: Shetland

Central – East

Significant Scarcity: East Neuk of Fife, Leven, Lunan Water, North Fife, Tyne

Moderate Scarcity: Almond and the rest of the Esk, Firth of Forth and Firth of Tay catchments

South – East

Significant Scarcity: Upper Tweed, Mid-Tweed & Lauderdale

Moderate Scarcity: Rest of the Tweed catchment

Unusual year of pressure

This year has been highly unusual, with repeated dry weather keeping rivers under strain throughout 2025.

Rivers naturally cope with changes in flow as part of their annual cycle, but extended low flows increase pressure on river ecology and recovery takes longer. Repeated low-flow years increase the risk of long-term or even permanent changes.

To better understand the impacts, SEPA has increased ecological monitoring. Additional assessments have been carried out over the summer to assess impacts on fish, in-stream ecology, and water quality.

David Harley, SEPA’s Head of Water and Planning, said: “With 17 catchments now at Significant Scarcity, and more abstraction licences restricted than ever before, Scotland’s rivers are under record pressure.

“Restrictions are always a last resort, but they are essential to protect the environment and all water users. The National Water Scarcity Plan sets out an approach which ensures the correct balance between protecting the environment and providing water for human and economic activity. It has clear thresholds for when restrictions are imposed and lifted, based on detailed monitoring of river levels underpinned by evidence and expertise in relation to the impact of extended low flows on river ecology.

“This year has been highly unusual – we’ve not seen water scarcity conditions persist for this length of time before. It underlines the importance of learning from these events and planning for how Scotland uses and protects its precious water resources in the face of climate change.”

Local Tesco store supports local hospice with five figure donation

As part of their ongoing commitment to the local community, a Tesco Superstore in Edinburgh has raised £19,382 for St. Columba’s Hospice Care through instore fundraising and other initiatives.

The store, located on Broughton Road, has spent eight years raising vital funds for the hospice, which provides people in Edinburgh with end-of-life care, as well as supporting their families.

Recently, members of the Tesco team took part in the 7 Hills of Edinburgh Challenge, a long gruelling walk of around 27km with over 700m of climbing involved, in which they raised nearly £2,000 for the hospice alone.

In September, the team will be taking part in the famous Edinburgh Kiltwalk, part of Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event with over 178,000 people taking part since 2016.

Year-long fundraising in store includes a book donation point, which was started by store colleague Caroline Phillip, where customers are encouraged to take a book and make a small donation, which is then given to the hospice – with a current sum of £17,432 donated so far. Books are provided by local businesses and customers.

Ross Wallace, Store Manager at the Superstore, said: “We have supported St. Columba’s Hospice Care for many years and are delighted we have been able to give them such a fantastic donation of over £19,000.

“The hospice has provided help to not only colleagues in store, but our customers as well, so it’s a cause very close to our communities’ hearts.

“I’m extremely proud of all my staff for going the extra mile to raise funds for a vital service which supports so many people in the area, and I’d like to thank everyone who kindly donated over the years too.”

Amanda Southey, Partnerships Fundraiser, said: “We’re incredibly thankful to the team at Tesco for their continued commitment and generosity over the years.

“Their support makes a real difference to families across Edinburgh and the Lothians, allowing us to deliver expert, compassionate care, so no one has to face the end of life alone.”

Tesco Superstore is located at 7 Broughton Rd, Edinburgh, EH7 4EW.

Donations can be made to the store’s Kiltwalk efforts at: 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rosswallace-688924857d8396eb850a9ec7.

For more information on St. Columba’s Hospice Care and how to support, please visit https://stcolumbashospice.org.uk/.

Boosting trade during global uncertainty

Increasing investment and new priority export markets

Targeted funding has delivered a significant increase in the number of trade missions involving Scottish exporters in 2025. 

The Scottish Government has already approved 17 Scottish Chamber of Commerce missions to countries including the United States, China, Singapore, and Germany. This compares with 13 missions for the whole of 2024 and follows a £1.6 million funding boost to implement the First Minister’s Six Point Export plan, which expands assistance for exporters in the face of geopolitical uncertainty, tariffs and the continuing impact Brexit.

As well as supporting the 33% increase in the number of Chamber trade missions, the funding will enable  enterprise agencies to help an extra 100 exporters find new customers and generate an additional £75 million of forecast export sales.

The figures are released today ahead of a Scottish Parliament debate on growing Scotland’s exports and the publication of an updated version of the Scottish Government’s export strategy, A Trading Nation. 

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Scotland has always been a strong trading nation. We have a long and rich history of producing goods and services that are highly regarded and sought after across the world.

“In the current global climate, it is important that we increase our support to exporters in both new and existing markets. 

“Recognising the continued importance of the US market, we have awarded a new contract to identify export opportunities in specific states. And this week First Minister has been pressing the case in person with the President of the United States for the removal of tariffs on Scotch whisky.

“At the same we are looking to bolster trade links with countries such as Ukraine, where Scottish products and expertise can help provide support in its hour of need. 

“Businesses may face new barriers to trade but the potential for Scottish products remains huge. The Scottish Government will do everything in its power to support exporters and build on the highest ever forecast export sales figures of £2.46 billion for 2024-25.”

Young achievers and business leaders recognised at Inspire Awards 2025 in Scottish Parliament 

Young achievers and business leaders from Edinburgh and the Lothians were among those celebrated at the BYITC Inspire Awards 2025, held in the Scottish Parliament to recognise talent and leadership across the UK. 

Organised by the British Youth International College (BYITC), the annual awards celebrate excellence across academics, sport, art, culture, social impact, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The event gathered families, educators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and parliamentarians to applaud the next generation. 

Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP served as Chief Guest of Honour and event sponsor, alongside Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of Scottish Labour and Foysol Choudhury MSP, who all attended to support the award winners. 

Among the Edinburgh & Lothians Winners were: 

Academics
Kanav Jain, Edinburgh – STEM Wizard 
Alden Arun, Edinburgh – Maths Grandmaster 

All-Round Achievement
Aarush Gosain, Livingston – Dynamic Achiever 
Kenisha Jain, West Calder – Rising Marvel 
Chinemnna Okorie, Livingston – Young Intellect 

Business Excellence
Tanwi Bhattacharya, Founder of Nikkan Dance Academy, Edinburgh – Artistic Visionary 

Foysol Choudhury MSP praised the honourees: “It was a real honour to be at the Inspire Awards and celebrate so many talented young people and local business leaders from Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“Their achievements are inspiring, and they remind us why it’s so important to back the next generation, to make sure creativity, education, and entrepreneurship can thrive in our communities.” 

The evening featured performances from young artists and brought together families, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, highlighting how the next generation is already contributing to Scotland’s future. 

LeithChooses: Applications Open!

WELLBEING IN LEITH GETS LEITHCHOOSES 2026 FUNDING BOOST

LeithChooses is delighted to announce that applications are now open for funding bids for community projects across the wider Leith area! 

Organisations can apply for up to £5,000 for a project that ‘enhances well-being for Leithers’ and applications will be put to the public vote on 24th January 2026 at Leith Community Centre, Kirkgate at the much-loved LeithChooses Community Vote Day. 

This year saw 11 new projects receive funding, following an exceptionally busy vote day, including a new children’s running group, summer holiday workshops for children and parents, tea dances for seniors, a playground mural and a multicultural celebration day.  

LeithChooses Chair, Councillor Susan Rae, said “Many organisations from Leith have benefited from our participatory budget fund in the past, and we are excited to see what innovative projects Leith groups come up with this time, on the theme of ‘well-being in Leith’.  

“LeithChooses is entering its 15th year and we never fail to be impressed by the enthusiasm and resilience of Leithers.” 

“We are really excited to see what ideas come forward’ said Councillor Jack Caldwell, also on the Steering Group.

“From Newhaven to Broughton, Constitution Street to Hillside, LeithChooses has funded many groups and activities and this year should be no different.”

Sally Millar, Leith Links Community Council and Steering Group member, stressed the need to get applications in soon. “Participatory Budgeting allows communities to have a direct say in how community budgets are spent and to choose priorities for spending.

“The voting day is a great chance for organisations and the public to meet others who live, work, study or volunteer in the area. Get those applications in!”

The application window is open until 22nd October 2025. You can fill it in by visiting leithchooses.net/applications-for-leithchooses-2025-26-are-now-open. 

Support is available for any organisation that wishes to take part, please get in touch via leithchooses.net/would-you-like-help-with-your-application.

LeithChooses was started in 2010 as “£eith Decides” and disperses Community Grant funding for Edinburgh Council Wards 12 and 13.

More information on LeithChooses, please contact susan.rae@edinburgh.gov.uk or visit leithchooses.net.