Category: city centre

Johnnie Walker Princes Street lights up Edinburgh to mark world exclusive

  • New Blue Label variant capturing the elusive taste of umami, in first-of-a-kind collaboration with renowned Chef Kei Kobayashi, can only be purchased at Johnnie Walker Princes Street
  • Whisky fans can purchase the limited edition bottling from today, with bespoke cocktails and immersive tasting experiences available in the coming weeks.
  • Edinburgh’s West End will be illuminated with a stunning new projection as part of a complete takeover of the venue.

Johnnie Walker, the world’s number one Scotch Whisky brand1, today unveils Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami – a pioneering expression inspired by the enigmatic flavour also known as the fifth taste, which will be available exclusively at Johnnie Walker Princes Street from today, before launching worldwide on October 16.

Taking inspiration from Japanese Zen Calligraphy, the projection onto Johnnie Walker Princes Street celebrates the ancient art form with silhouetted artists’ intricate brush strokes combined with elements from the beautifully crafted Umami Blue Label packaging on the side of Princes Street’s biggest canvas.

Arriving at Edinburgh’s eight floor whisky experience before anywhere else in the world, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami is a limited-edition release crafted by Master Blender Emma Walker and renowned Japanese Chef Kei Kobayashi of Paris’ three Michelin Star restaurant Kei.

The pair joined forces to create a Scotch that encapsulates the inscrutable taste of umami, a Japanese word used to describe what is a hard-to-define flavour, possessing mysterious qualities.

The result – a beautifully balanced Scotch of sweet and savoury flavours, with notes of blood oranges and red berries with sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, a hint of salt and pepper with a long, sweet fruit finish. Selected casks from inland and coastal distilleries are hand-picked at the height of their maturation for their unique umami profile – only one in 25,000 casks succeeds in bringing this elusive character to life.

In addition to being the first in the world to get their hands on this incredible new whisky, Johnnie Walker Princes Street guests will also have the chance to enjoy a limited-edition Umami cocktail on the 1820 Bar roof terrace and take part in an immersive 60-minute tasting experience, with details set to be released on Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s social media profiles in the coming weeks.

Johnnie Walker Master Blender, Emma Walker, says: “When Chef Kei and I set out to capture the essence of umami, we wanted to push the boundaries of what Scotch could be and bring a truly innovative offering to the world of whisky and flavour.

“For Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami, only one in 25,000 casks in our unparalleled reserves of more than 10 million maturing casks made the cut in our painstaking search for that elusive flavour profile – each expression of whisky was hand-picked to create an umami profile, just like ingredients for a recipe, allowing us to bring the unique character of this innovative whisky to life.”

Chef Kei Kobayashi adds: “Umami possesses a mysterious quality that ignites our senses, revealing sumptuous taste, complexity, and depth.

“Encapsulating that alluring flavour through Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami allows you to immerse your palate in an exquisite Scotch Whisky of subtle richness.”

Rob Maxwell, Head of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, says: “Johnnie Walker is renowned for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in whisky, and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami does just that.

“This collaboration is an expression of taste that’s rarely seen in the world of whisky, and one that is set to inspire a new generation of whisky lovers. It’s exciting that we are the world’s first location to stock this exclusive dram at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. We can’t wait for you to taste it.”

Available exclusively at Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh from September 18, 2023, and available to buy globally from October 16, 2023.

Follow Johnnie Walker Princes Street for more information:

https://www.instagram.com/johnniewalkerprincesstreet/

‘Fashion Brand with a purpose’ Scamp & Dude celebrates opening weekend at St James Quarter

Scamp & Dude celebrated its official opening in Edinburgh at the weekend with a VIP event, live entertainment, hosted by brand founder and CEO Jo Tutchener-Sharp who formally cut the ribbon and welcomed excited shoppers through the doors on Saturday 9th September. 

Adding a pop of neon to the capital’s lifestyle district, St James Quarter, this is Scamp & Dude’s first store to open in Scotland and comes after a year of expansive growth for the brand, which will also see the opening of a store in Battersea Power Station, London this weekend. 

On Friday 8th September Scamp & Dude hosted a vibrant launch event with more than 180 of the city’s key influencers,media and over 100 members of the brand’s supportive Scottish community. Guests were treated to a limited-edition special Edinburgh-opening-only tote bag, thoughtfully designed, and packed with amazing Scamp & Dude and beauty must-haves. 

Engaging with the brand’s tight-knit community, the event was attended by more than 100 ‘Duders’. Dressed in head-to-toe Scamp & Dude attire, and full of anticipation and excitement, the ‘Duders’ were seen first in line creating the party atmosphere. Once inside, guests had the opportunity to explore the new store, try on new styles and press the exclusive interactive Superpower Button, to receive their very own boost of Scamp & Duder Superpowers.  

Exclusively unveiled at the launch was the Scamp & Dude ‘Bolt Room’, An exclusive shopping experience in the store, where customers can book to have
use of a private fitting room for a group of friends to try on the brand’s latest styles, all whilst relaxing with a glass of bubbly and a Scamp & Dude stylist on hand for advice. 

The official public launch of the vibrant new store at St James Quarter began on Saturday, September 9th, with eager shoppers beginning to gather as early as 7:45am in anticipation of this exciting addition to the Quarter.

The first 50 shoppers were gifted with a complimentary Scamp & Dude gift. Shoppers were entertained over the launch weekend with performances from a brass band that filled the Galleria with feel good tunes.  

The newly opened store proudly presents Scamp & Dude’s collection of women’s and children’s clothing, alongside their charitable product offerings. Situated in a location that resonates with the brand’s dedicated and swiftly expanding Scottish following, referred to as ‘Duders,’ it serves as the perfect hub for this community. 

‘We need a just transition NOW’

EDINBURGH MARCH JOINS GLOBAL CALLS FOR FAST+ FAIR TRANSITION AWAY FROM FOSSIL FUELS

Climate campaigners marched through Edinburgh yesterday to demand the UK and Scottish Governments develop a plan for a fair and fast transition away from fossil fuels. 

The protestors are demanding action to phase out oil and gas in the UK including a halt to controversial projects like the Rosebank oil field and a new gas-fired power station in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire. 

Organisers say there must be a fair and fast transition for the workers and the communities most affected by the move away from fossil fuels and these people should be at the heart of planning this transition to ensure it meets their needs.  

The march is one of 650 actions taking place around the world with millions of people involved this weekend ahead of a UN Climate Ambition Summit of world leaders in New York next week.

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s oil and gas campaigner Freya Aitchison said: “Millions of people will be in the streets around the world because politicians are failing to deliver the fast and fair transition away from the fossil fuels that are fuelling climate breakdown.

“The near daily climate disasters we are witnessing from Libya, to Greece to China are driven by the burning of fossil fuels yet politicians are still cheerleading for fossil fuel companies. Rishi Sunak’s plan to ‘max out’ oil and gas will maximise climate destruction while the Scottish Government is considering approving a new gas plant at Peterhead in Aberdeenshire which will lock us into burning fossil fuels for decades to come.

“Marchers in Edinburgh are calling for a properly planned transition away from oil and gas which is led by the workers and communities most affected. A credible plan to switch to renewables can deliver huge benefits to people such as more affordable energy, secure green jobs, warm homes and a safe climate.”

Scientists, energy experts and climate campaigners agree that there must be no new investment in oil, gas or coal anywhere if the world is to limit further climate breakdown. Despite this the UK Government wants to “max out” new North Sea oil and gas and grant over 100 new licences for further oil and gas exploration. 

The march was organised by a coalition of groups including Edinburgh Climate Coalition, Friends of the Earth Scotland, Fridays for Future, Climate Justice Coalition, War on Want, Extinction Rebellion Edinburgh, Scot.E3, Greenpeace Edinburgh and Youth in Resistance. 

Steve Gray, a delegate of Aberdeen Trades Union Council who spoke at the rally after the march said: “Aberdeen Trades Union Council welcomes the opportunity to march in solidarity with the climate justice movement and thanks everyone for their support for a just transition for workers employed by the fossil fuel industries.

“The tragic deaths caused by the Stonehaven trail derailment during a storm showed the devastating impacts of a changing climate. Aberdeen Trades Union Council, alongside our STUC allies, recognise that we cannot allow these hazards to multiply and threaten our communities.

“All our gains from free school education to votes for working people and equal pay for women have been won through collective struggles. We can once again win this shared fight and secure decent jobs for people building climate resilient communities in Scotland and around the world.”

Lucia Harrington, Lead Organiser of Fuel Poverty Action who campaign for insulated homes and clean, affordable energy for all commented: “Our households’ resources, and the earth’s resources, are being exploited by the profiteering fossil fuel industry, and this is driving fuel poverty and climate disaster.

“One of the leading causes of the cost of living crisis was that fossil fuel powered energy companies were allowed to make record profits at the expense of millions of people who are forced to go without heating, hot water and electricity.

“We need a just transition now to an energy system that works for people and the planet. Many workers in the fossil fuel industry want to be part of this transition without losing their jobs and falling into fuel poverty.”

‘Edinburgh Style’ returns to St James Quarter

‘Edinburgh Style’ is back at St James Quarter this September for its third season, bringing showstopping fashion to Edinburgh’s lifestyle district in partnership with Grazia magazine.  

From Friday 29th September to Sunday 1st October, St James Quarter will play host to an array of must-attend events, curated for the fashion lovers and beauty aficionados of Edinburgh. 

Across the stylish long weekend, guests can attend an exciting lineup of free fashion talks, styling workshops, and beauty masterclasses featuring world renowned brands. For those prepping their wardrobe for Autumn / Winter, the fashion team at Grazia will be hosting a series of intimate styling sessions, sharing their fashion and accessory must-haves for the season ahead. 

And that’s not all, St James Quarter will be hosting two iconic catwalk shows on Saturday 30th September at 4pm and 6pm on Level 3 in the Galleria.

Models will be taking to the runway, showcasing the newest looks fresh off the rails from retailers including John Lewis, H&M, & Other Stories and BOSS, as well as Harvey Nichols on Multrees Walk.

For those seeking a truly VIP experience, the closing show, which will be styled by the Grazia team also offers live entertainment. While tickets are not essential, guests can reserve their free spot via the St James Quarter app.  

Over the course of the weekend, John Lewis will be hosting its very own fashion and beauty events as part of its MYJL Members’ Week in collaboration with top influencers Nadine Baggott, Clarissa Rae and Nicole Ocran.  

Also part of the weekend schedule, H Beauty is bringing back its H Beauty Carnival, including everything from expert sessions on how to perfect the ultimate glowing look with the Charlotte Tilbury team to how to get runway ready with the experts from Pat McGrath.  

The H Beauty Carnival will also feature special appearances from the likes of social media it girl Emily Shak and celebrity makeup artist Neil Young who will be revealing their ultimate style and beauty tips. For more information and to book a free ticket, visit the H Beauty website here.  

Don’t forget to download the St James Quarter app to stay in the loop with all things Style.  

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “This year, we’re bringing some of the most trusted voices in the fashion and beauty world straight to St James Quarter with the return of Edinburgh Style.

“Over the course of the weekend, we will be hosting an array of exclusive fashion workshops, beauty masterclasses, immersive in-store experiences, and not one, but two runway presentations.  

“This is the second year we’ve partnered with Grazia, and we can’t wait to show the fashion team all that the stylish city of Edinburgh has to offer.

“We’re inviting everyone to enjoy our packed schedule of unmissable events and celebrate their own unique style. Make sure you clear your diaries!” 

For more information on the free events that will be taking place across the weekend and to secure your fashion show seats, please visit the St James Quarter app here, or alternatively visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/events 

St James Quarter Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/stjamesquarter/  

St James Quarter Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/StJamesQuarter/  

Three youths sought following Tollcross assault

POLICE are appealing for information after a 19-year-old man suffered serious injuries after being assaulted in Tollcross. The incident happened shortly after 12am yesterday (Friday, 15 September) in Brougham Street.

The man was approached by a group of three male youths and subsequently assaulted. He required treatment at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh to injuries sustained in the incident.

One of the youths is described as about 16-years-old, clean shaven, tall with brown hair and a fringe. He was of stocky build and wearing a black jacket, grey bottoms and black shoes.

The second was also about 16-years-old, white, clean shaven and wearing a grey hooded top with grey jogging bottoms. He was riding a dark coloured bike with white writing

The third was a younger male, white, small and of thin build with blonde hair. He was wearing a black hooded top and black tracksuit bottoms.

Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “Our enquiries into this incident are ongoing and I would urge anyone who may have information which could help to get in touch.

“Enquiries so far have established the three youths had been in the city centre on Lothian Road and the Meadows prior to and after the assault.

“If you believe you have may have seen them or have any other information relating to the assault please come forward. We would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have dashcam or private CCTV footage from the area.

“Anyone who can help is asked to call 101, quoting reference 0226 of 15 September, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Edinburgh march joins global calls for fast and fair transition away from fossil fuels

Climate campaigners will march through Edinburgh today (16 /9/ 23) to demand the UK and Scottish Governments develop a plan for a fair and fast transition away from fossil fuels. 

The protestors are demanding action to phase out oil and gas in the UK including a halt to controversial projects like the Rosebank oil field and a new gas-fired power station in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire. 

Organisers say there must be a fair and fast transition for the workers and the communities most affected by the move away from fossil fuels and these people should be at the heart of planning this transition to ensure it meets their needs.  

The march is one of 400 actions taking place around the world with millions of people involved this weekend ahead of a UN Climate Ambition Summit of world leaders in New York next week.

Scientists, energy experts and climate campaigners agree that there must be no new investment in oil, gas or coal anywhere if the world is to limit further climate breakdown. Despite this the UK Government wants to “max out” new North Sea oil and gas and grant over 100 new licences for further oil and gas exploration. 

The march is organised by a coalition of groups including Edinburgh Climate Coalition, Friends of the Earth Scotland, Fridays for Future, Climate Justice Coalition, War on Want, Extinction Rebellion Edinburgh, Scot.E3, Greenpeace Edinburgh and Youth in Resistance. 

Steve Gray, a delegate of Aberdeen Trades Union Council who will speak at the rally after the march said: “Aberdeen Trades Union Council welcomes the opportunity to march in solidarity with the climate justice movement and thanks everyone for their support for a just transition for workers employed by the fossil fuel industries.

“The tragic deaths caused by the Stonehaven trail derailment during a storm showed the devastating impacts of a changing climate. Aberdeen Trades Union Council, alongside our STUC allies, recognise that we cannot allow these hazards to multiply and threaten our communities.

“All our gains from free school education to votes for working people and equal pay for women have been won through collective struggles. We can once again win this shared fight and secure decent jobs for people building climate resilient communities in Scotland and around the world.”

Lucia Harrington, Lead Organiser of Fuel Poverty Action who campaign for insulated homes and clean, affordable energy for all commented: “Our households’ resources, and the earth’s resources, are being exploited by the profiteering fossil fuel industry, and this is driving fuel poverty and climate disaster.

“

One of the leading causes of the cost of living crisis was that fossil fuel powered energy companies were allowed to make record profits at the expense of millions of people who are forced to go without heating, hot water and electricity.

“We need a just transition now to an energy system that works for people and the planet. Many workers in the fossil fuel industry want to be part of this transition without losing their jobs and falling into fuel poverty.”

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s oil and gas campaigner Freya Aitchison said: “Millions of people will be in the streets around the world because politicians are failing to deliver the fast and fair transition away from the fossil fuels that are fuelling climate breakdown.

“

The near daily climate disasters we are witnessing from Libya, to Greece to China are driven by the burning of fossil fuels yet politicians are still cheerleading for fossil fuel companies. Rishi Sunak’s plan to ‘max out’ oil and gas will maximise climate destruction while the Scottish Government is considering approving a new gas plant at Peterhead in Aberdeenshire which will lock us into burning fossil fuels for decades to come.”  

“Marchers in Edinburgh are calling for a properly planned transition away from oil and gas which is led by the workers and communities most affected. A credible plan to switch to renewables can deliver huge benefits to people such as more affordable energy, secure green jobs, warm homes and a safe climate.”

Edinburgh Climate March Against Fossil Fuels tomorrow

EDINBURGH CLIMATE MARCH AGAINST FOSSIL FUELS – 11AM  SAT 16 SEPTEMBER

The End Fossil Fuels March in Edinburgh is one of over 400 worldwide events taking place this weekend ahead of the UN Climate Ambition Summit in New York next week.

++ MARCH DETAILS ++

March meeting point at The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL.

Time: 11am, Saturday 16 September

The march will leave The Mound around 11.30am. It will head up Hanover Street, turn right on to George Street, turn right onto South St David St, across Waverley Bridge, left onto Market Street down past the UK Government building at Sibbald Walk, turn left onto Canongate and head down to the Scottish Parliament where it will end.

March will conclude with speeches outside the Scottish Parliament.

Marchers are calling for a fair and fast phase out of fossil fuels and for both the UK and Scottish Governments to create detailed just transition plans.

The UK Government wants to ‘max out’ existing oil and gas fields and is pledging exploration licences for hundreds of new projects, while the Scottish Government is considering approving a new gas fired power plant at Peterhead.

Collective: Gala Schedule Announced!

COLLECTIVE on CALTON HILL REVEAL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION PROGRAMME

We are so excited to welcome you to our Collective Gala this Sunday 17 September, celebrating five years since opening the newly restored City Observatory as a centre for contemporary art.

Please see the full schedule for the day (above) to help you plan your visit. 

We have a special programme of activities running throughout the day, with free drop-in creative play sessions by Frieda Ford, makers’ stalls, introductions to our exhibitions, bookable tours of the site including Cooke telescope and Observatory House, and culminating in a newly commissioned performance by Zoë Gibson. 

Please note, Lisa Williams’ Black History walking tour has been postponed to October for Black History Month.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday! 

MOËT & CHANDON JOINS THE EDINBURGH COCKTAIL WEEK LINEUP

Luxury French Champagne brand joins The Cocktail Village lineup for 2023 

  • Edinburgh Cocktail Week publishes official guide for 2023
  • 22 brands taking part across 10 days at the UK’s biggest cocktail festival 
  • The guide showcases all of the £5 cocktails on offer as well as cocktail maps for the 100 participating bars around the city

With just a month to go until Edinburgh Cocktail Week kicks off, organisers revealed today that Moët & Chandon is the final brand to join the stellar lineup at next month’s Cocktail Village. 

Moet & Chandon, in collaboration with the team from Eve at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, will offer a selection of three Champagne cocktails. Moët & Chandon celebrates life’s memorable moments, and the bespoke cocktail selection has been curated to celebrate the festival’s fifth anniversary, running from Friday, 6th – Sunday, 15th October from 12 noon-11pm daily.

The announcement coincides with the publication of this year’s Edinburgh Cocktail Week guide which includes a rundown of all the £5 cocktails on offer at 100 bars taking part throughout the city during the 10-day festival. The guide can be accessed here.

This year marks Edinburgh Cocktail Week’s fifth birthday. To celebrate, the event has partnered with 100 of Edinburgh’s best cocktail bars, speakeasies and neighbourhood pubs to offer delicious £5 Signature Cocktails.

To get exclusive access to these cocktails, customers simply need to buy one of the festival wristbands and show it at the bar when ordering.

Wristband holders can find all the cocktails within the official guide and maps to help plan their day out and navigate the best cocktail routes across the city. 

No matter which wristband type is purchased – weekday or weekend – wristbands are valid at all participating bars for the full ten-day duration of the festival so event goers can enjoy multiple days out tasting their way around the best bars in Edinburgh.

The celebrations also extend to the highly popular Cocktail Village at Festival Square, the social epicentre of the festival, which will be bigger than ever before. Entry to the Cocktail Village is free with a festival wristband and inside cocktail-lovers will find 22 pop-up bars serving amazing cocktails from £5.

Pop-up bars serving cocktails from £5 include Aperol Spritz, Grey Goose, Patron, Engine Gin, Tia Maria, Hoxton Spirits, Boe Gin and Malibu, as well as a luxurious selection of premium, full-priced cocktails from the Moët & Chandon bar.

There will also be a mouth-watering selection of street food from Duck & Waffle, Pizza Geeks and Taberu Japanese Kitchen, and a live music stage with a jam-packed programme of local musicians and special headline performances, including a Spice Girl Tribute band, to get the party going. 

For the discerning cocktail drinker, Edinburgh Cocktail Week has a collection of award-winning ‘Prestige Cocktail’ bars to visit, where you can enjoy elevated cocktail experiences curated by the city’s top mixologists at the likes of Panda & Sons, Hey Palu, The Waldorf Astoria, Commons Club and The Devil’s Advocate. 

Gary Anderson, Managing Director of Edinburgh Cocktail Week said: “What better way to toast our fifth birthday than with Moët & Chandon champagne?

“We are utterly delighted to announce that Moët & Chandon will be joining us in the Cocktail Village next month and we look forward to raising a celebratory glass with wristband holders.

“We’re incredibly proud to call Edinburgh the home of the UK’s biggest cocktail festival and would like to thank all our customers and partners for their continued support of the festival – it’s amazing to see so many familiar faces year after year.”

Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh Business Improvement District said: “Essential Edinburgh is delighted to again be the primary partner to Edinburgh Cocktail Week.

“ECW is now eagerly anticipated and well established in the city’s event calendar, and does a fantastic job in promoting our superb hospitality sector in the city centre. 

“We look forward to another hugely successful event both in the Cocktail Village and around every one of the bars and restaurants taking part. I can’t think of a better way to spend an early October evening than sampling wonderful cocktails in and around our city centre.”

A full list of the brands and bars taking part can be found on the Edinburgh Cocktail Week website and in notes to editors below.

Wristbands are on sale now at www.edinburghcocktailweek.co.uk. 

Wristband options for 2023 are as below (inclusive of booking fees):

  • Weekend 1 – £10.00 (valid Friday 6th – Sunday 8th Oct)
  • Weekday – £8.00 (valid Monday 9th –  Thursday 12th Oct)
  • Weekend 2- £10.00 (valid Friday 13th – Sunday 15th Oct)
  • Ten Day – £14.00 (valid Friday 6th – Sunday 15th Oct)

All wristbands are valid at all 100 participating bars for the full 10-day duration of the festival. Wristbands are valid at the Cocktail Village for the dates detailed above. 

ECW-Guide-2023Download

MoonWalk Scotland lights up the night-time streets of Edinburgh

The MoonWalk Scotland returned to the streets of Edinburgh in a blaze of colour last night (Sat 9th Sept).

Women, men and young people wearing brightly decorated bras or colourful “bra t-shirts” set off from Holyrood Park in balmy, late summer temperatures at 11pm, to walk a half or full marathon through the capital. 

Organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, the first MoonWalk Scotland was staged in 2006. Since then, walkers have raised almost £22 million, which is granted across Scotland to help support those living with cancer. 

Walk the Walk recently awarded £50,000 to the charity Cancer Support Scotland, to help reduce the waiting list for Scottish cancer patients and their families, who are in desperate need of emotional and wellbeing support.

Many buildings and landmarks across Edinburgh lit up pink throughout the night in honour of Walk the Walk’s amazing walkers and volunteers.

These included Edinburgh Castle; Camera Obscura, Lloyds on the Mound; Royal Society; Edinburgh; Victoria Quay, Leith, Radisson Blu Hotel, St. Andrew’s House, Prestonfield House Hotel; Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

Rachel Groves (59) from Edinburgh completed the 26.2 miles Full Moon. Rachel was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2023, having battled for almost a year to be examined in person by her GP.

Rachel said; “I’m chuffed to bits to have completed The MoonWalk with my daughter, sister, nieces and closest friend.

“It was quite an incredible experience: amazing volunteers, very non-traditional Edinburgh weather and a cause we all truly believe in.

“For me, personally, it was particularly humbling to be fundraising knowing that MoonWalk organisers breast cancer charity Walk the Walk funded the unit which treated me at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh.

“And here I am, less than five months after a mastectomy, walking the walk!“

Fiona Watson, (56) from Elgin, took part in her first Moonwalk, completing the 13.1 miles Half Moon. Fiona has been on constant treatment for secondary breast cancer since 2014.

She said: “Our team thoroughly enjoyed completing the Half Moon. It was uplifting and challenging, amongst many other emotions, and there was a tremendous feeling of unity throughout the night – the organisers and the volunteers were first class from start to finish.

“The warmth we experienced from the city of Edinburgh was immeasurable and we are also quite overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity of all our sponsors.

“By taking part in The MoonWalk, I hope I’ve raised awareness that it is possible for anyone newly diagnosed with breast cancer (or indeed secondary breast cancer) to still lead a relatively normal life.”

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk, said: “What an incredible night! It was wonderful to see so many people taking part, including a large number who were totally new to MoonWalking.

“Together, everyone was uniting not only to raise awareness of breast cancer, but also valuable funds which will help improve the lives of people across Scotland living with the disease.

“The collective pink hug from so many iconic buildings across Edinburgh which had lit up pink for the occasion was such a huge boost for our Walkers and Volunteers, as was the unseasonably warm weather!

“Keep helping us make a difference by signing up for The MoonWalk Scotland 2024!” 

Entries are already open for The MoonWalk Scotland on Saturday 7th September 2024. Sign up now www.walkthewalk.org