Inverleith – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Happy 15th Anniversary, NEN blog!

NEN PUBLISHED OUR FIRST BLOG POST ON THIS DAY IN 2011

The very first NEN blog post was published on this day in 2011. The post read:

Hello, and welcome to the brand new NEN blog.

For those of you not already familiar with the newspaper, we are a local community paper serving the North Edinburgh community. We’ve been here for over thirty years.

This blog, along with our new Facebook page and Twitter stream, represents our first foray into the world of social media. We really want to encourage more participation, more questions and ideas from the North Edinburgh community – both online and offline – and hope that these new tools will help us to do that.

We already have a good website, where you can always find the latest edition of the printed newspaper. The blog won’t be replacing that, but will instead be there to show people the latest news about the area, and also to help us cover the current funding crisis we are facing as an organisation.

Above all, we want to include your input on the blog – be it ideas for stories, comments, pictures and events. So get in touch!

The NEN’s website was sadly deleted when funding ceased but our social media presence continues on both Twitter and Facebook and the blog is still going strong with 10 – 12 posts daily.

2025 was the NEN blog’s busiest ever year with 36,000 visitors. As I write this we’ve published more than 38,000 posts – all of these remain accessible online – and we’re currently on a run of publishing on 2749 consecutive days.

When the NEN office in Crewe Road North closed much of the NEN archive material was lost, but thankfully some of our picture library was salvaged and can now be found at granton:hub (Madelvic House), where the volunteer archive team has also collated all remaining hard copies of the North Edinburgh News newspaper.

Hopefully, between the physical archive and the NEN blog, you can find all you need to know about our community’s rich history – and we’re adding to that history every day!

Reset this holiday with a winter walk through shimmering lights at Christmas at the Botanics

With the New Year just around the corner, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is welcoming visitors to enjoy the last few days of the season with a trip to Christmas at the Botanics.

Running over 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 December, the trail provides families and friends a chance to slow down, step outside and reset in between Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

This refreshing escape invites visitors of all ages to embrace moments of calm while walking through the Garden’s illuminated landscape.

This year’s trail is inspired by transformation and renewal, making it the perfect place for a post-Christmas pause. Water Lilies float radiantly across the pond, their reflections shimmering in the night and reminding us of the growth that can emerge even in darkness.

Further along the trail, The Seeds, featuring five glowing sculptures that symbolise restoration and new beginnings, offer a spot for visitors to reflect on what they want to carry forward into the new year.

Alongside these installations, the trail provides a place for visitors to reconnect with the natural living world that resides in the heart of the Capital.

Sarah Cathcart, Director of Learning and Engagement at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “Gardens are a place of discovery, connection and reflection.

“The period between Christmas and New Year’s offers up the chance to breathe, get outdoors and reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones and with nature. And here at the Botanics, it’s also a chance to be surrounded by the Garden’s beauty and the joy of festive lights.

“The trail is designed to be uplifting and calming, and we encourage visitors to experience it before another festive season comes to a close.”

Tickets for the remaining dates are on sale now. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred timeslot.

For further ticket information, pricing, and timings, please click here.

Christmas at the Botanics is one of 14 illuminated trails staged across the UK by leading events promoter RG Live, a division of Sony Music. Christmas at the Botanics is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and creative producer Culture Creative.

For more details visit www.rbge.org.uk/christmas and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.

Sexual assaults in Stockbridge: Man to appear in court on Monday

A man has been arrested and charged in connection with six sexual assaults in Stockbridge and the New Town.

Police received reports of three incidents on the evening of Friday, 12 December, 2025, in the Fettes Row, Inverleith Row and Saxe Coburg Street areas. Three further incidents were reported thereafter in the Dean Bank Lane and Royal Crescent areas.

Following extensive enquiries, a 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection. He is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 22 December.

Detective Inspector Dougal Begg said: “We know these incidents caused concern in the local community and I would like to thank members of the public for their support during our enquiries.”

Appeal for witnesses following sexual assaults in Stockbridge area

POLICE are appealing for information following three sexual assaults in the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh last Friday (12 December).

Around 5.20pm on Fettes Row, a woman was approached from behind by a man who sexually assaulted her and made sexual comments.

Around 5.30pm on Inverleith Row, a woman was walking her dog when a man approached her from behind and sexually assaulted her. He then walked down Inverleith Row towards Dundas Street.

A short time later, a woman was walking past Stockbridge church on Saxe Coburg Street when a man approached her, sexually assaulted her and exposed himself.

Officers believe the same man to have been involved in these incidents. He is described as being of Asian appearance, aged between 25 and mid-30s, of slim build, around 5ft 8in, with light facial hair.

He was wearing a khaki or brown coloured coat and carried a backpack.

Detective Inspector Dougal Begg said: “I understand incidents like these cause concern in the local community, but we are carrying out extensive enquiries and doing everything we can to trace the man responsible.

“I would ask anyone who was in those areas on Friday evening and who may have witnessed something to get in touch. If you remember seeing a man matching the description, contact us.”

Chief Inspector Ran MacDonald, Local Area Commander, said: “I want to reassure that there will be an increased visible police presence in the local area as officers carry out enquiries. Anyone with any concerns should approach officers without hesitation, as they are there to help.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident 2889 of 12 December.

Watsonian Football Club raises £10,000 for Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity as part of it’s 150th Anniversary Year

Watsonian Football Club is proud to announce that it has raised £10,000 to donate to Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) for the second consecutive year, during its ongoing 150th anniversary celebrations in 2025.

The donation, generated through a series of commemorative events, was raised primarily at the club’s landmark 150th Anniversary Dinner, where players, supporters, alumni, and partners came together in a memorable evening of celebration and generosity.

The donation marks a significant highlight in Watsonians’ year-long programme honouring its 150th milestone year, reinforcing the club’s commitment to strengthening its community impact both on and off the pitch.

Richard Kelly, President of Watsonian FC, said: “As we celebrate 150 years of our club’s history, it has been incredibly important to us that this milestone reflects not only where we have come from, but what we stand for today.

“The generosity shown by our members and supporters at the 150th Dinner was truly incredible. Raising £10,000 for Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity allows us to play a small part in supporting the children and families who rely on the extraordinary care they provide.”

The funds raised will help ECHC continue its vital work supporting seriously ill children and their families during what can often be a frightening and life-changing hospital experience. By providing reassurance, distraction and joy, as well as funding specialist equipment, family support services and wellbeing initiatives, the charity helps to speed up recovery and ensure that no child faces hospital alone.

Kate Dixon, Corporate Partnerships Lead at Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We are hugely grateful to Watsonian Football Club for choosing to support ECHC during their special 150th anniversary year.

“This generous donation will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of children and families in hospital. The spirit and community shown by everyone involved is truly inspiring, and we are delighted to have been selected by the club as their chosen charity.”

The charitable fundraising forms part of a full calendar of events marking Watsonians’ historic 150th year, culminating in the Gala Dinner on 21 November 2025.

For more information on Watsonian Football Club and the 150th anniversary celebrations, please visit watsoniansrugby.com.

For more information about Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, please visit: echcharity.org

Christmas at the Botanics 2025 brings Light and Life to Winter Nights

As the evenings turn frosty, Christmas at the Botanics returns to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for the 2025 festive season. Running for 36 nights on selected evenings from 20 November to 30 December, the trail will illuminate the beauty and resilience of nature during winter.

The popular after-dark trail will once again transform the Garden into a glowing wonderland of light and sound, showcasing both homegrown talent and international artists.

Visitors can enjoy an array of spectacular installations that explore the theme of transformation and renewal – paying homage to the natural cycles of change that sustain our planet. New installations for 2025 include:

Papillons: Making its UK debut on this year’s trail, the installation by French design studio Pitaya will see a breathtaking display of hundreds of multi-coloured butterflies taking flight among the trees, inviting visitors to step into a vision of springtime in the depths of winter. The installation serves as a joyful tribute to biodiversity.

The Seeds: These internally lit, stand-alone white sculptures are equally impressive during the day as they are when illuminated at night and are powerful symbols of restoration and new beginnings.

Water Lilies: Five large, self-illuminated water lily flowers gracefully float along the surface of the Pond. As their incandescent petals reflect off the water, these flowers serve as a reminder of growth and transformation.

As well as the well-loved Christmas Cathedral, which has become a popular selfie spot over the years, visitors can also capture the love of Christmas under the new Heart Arches. Emitting a vibrant red glow, this installation adds another great location to capture picture-perfect moments with loved ones.

Designed to complement the Garden’s landscape, with 98% of the lights being energy-efficient LEDs, the trail combines art, sustainability and storytelling in the uniquely atmospheric setting of one of Edinburgh’s most iconic tourist destinations.

Beyond being a visual treat, the trail plays a vital role in supporting the Garden’s important work to tackle the biodiversity crisis and climate emergency. Ticket sales help fund crucial plant research, conservation and education programmes, helping to build a positive future for plants, people and the planet.

Sarah Cathcart, Director of Learning and Engagement at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “This year’s trail celebrates transformation – in nature, in art and in how we experience the winter season.

“We’ve refreshed much of the route to reflect the beauty and resilience that define both nature and our work at the Botanics – and the importance of protecting it.

“Christmas at the Botanics has become a highlight of Scotland’s winter tourism calendar, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. It’s a wonderful way to showcase Edinburgh at its most magical and celebrate the creativity that Scotland is known for.”

Tickets for this year’s show are on sale now, with the addition of three quiet nights to offer a more relaxed and accessible experience. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee their preferred timeslot.

For further ticket information, pricing, and timings, please click here.

For more details visit www.rbge.org.uk/christmas and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.

Be a Garden Guide at the Botanics

Become a Garden Guide at the Botanics!

For the first time in years, we’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to lead tours at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

If you love horticulture, enjoy meeting people from around the world, and have a passion for storytelling, we’d love to hear from you.

Our popular guided tours run twice a day from April to October. No formal experience is required and full training will be provided.

Apply by 12pm on Monday 1 December:

https://www.rbge.org.uk/support-us/volunteer/

Congrats to Fettes’ Tatler Twins!

Twin brothers win Unsung Hero award after 40 years at Fettes College

Twin brothers who have spent their entire working lives looking after the grounds of Fettes College in Edinburgh have won a Tatler Schools Award in the Unsung Hero category.

George and Kevin McNab were announced as the winners in London yesterday (Monday 29th September). They attended the awards ceremony at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel with their wives.

George and Kevin McNab joined Fettes on the same day back in January 1985 when they were only 16. Following in the footsteps of their father, who worked at the school as a joiner for nearly 30 years, they quickly became part of the fabric of Fettes’ life.

The Tatler Schools Guide celebrates the top prep and public schools in the UK and the Tatler Schools Awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of UK staff, pupils and school communities.

The Unsung Heroes category shines a spotlight on individuals whose work is totally invaluable to a school and makes a lasting difference behind the scenes. George and Kevin were the only shortlisted nomination from Scotland and beat competition from candidates from four English schools.

Over four decades, George and Kevin have seen a lot of change, from chalk-clogged pitch markers to today’s robot line marker, affectionately nicknamed “Lionel Pitchie” and much more, witnessing thousands of children grow up at the school. But what hasn’t changed is their friendship, humour and loyalty to each other and to the school community.

Over the years, the brothers have shared countless memories at Fettes, including George meeting his future wife in the school dining hall. This moment remains one of their most cherished stories alongside decades of tending rugby pitches and cricket squares in all four seasons.

Head of Grounds Kevin McNab said: “Being nominated for this award is a huge surprise and a real honour and to win is even better.

“We never imagined that our work behind the scenes would be recognised in this way. It’s very humbling to be included alongside so many outstanding people and we are looking forward to attending the Award Ceremony in London.”

His brother George, who is Deputy Head of Grounds, added: “It’s wonderful to have our efforts acknowledged.

“We’ve always loved what we do and to win this award is something we’ll never forget. It feels like a recognition of the whole team, not just the two of us.”

Peter Worlledge, Bursar and Head of Operational Staff at Fettes said: “Everyone at Fettes is delighted for George and Kevin – now nicknamed our ‘Tatler Twins’!

“They are pillars of our school community, who have spent over four decades going the extra mile for students and staff alike.

“Their dedication, care and humour have shaped Fettes in countless ways over the past 40 years and their contributions to our school are innumerable.

“This win is a fitting recognition of everything they have done for generations of students and staff, and we hope they enjoyed the experience of attending this prestigious event.”

The winners of the Tatler Schools Awards 2026 were announced at the awards ceremony on Monday 29 September 2025.

Twin brothers up for Unsung Hero award after 40 years at Fettes College

Twin brothers who have spent their entire working lives looking after the grounds of Fettes College in Edinburgh have been shortlisted for a Tatler Schools Award in the Unsung Hero category.

George and Kevin McNab are heading to London on Monday 29th September, with their wives, to attend the Award Ceremony at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel.

The Tatler Schools Guide celebrates the top prep and public schools in the UK and the Tatler Schools Awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of UK staff, pupils and school communities.

The Unsung Heroes category shines a spotlight on individuals whose work is totally invaluable to a school and makes a lasting difference behind the scenes. George and Kevin are the only shortlisted nomination from Scotland and are up against candidates from four English schools.

Head of Grounds Kevin McNab said: “Being nominated for this award is a huge surprise and a real honour. We never imagined that our work behind the scenes would be recognised in this way.

“It’s very humbling to be included alongside so many outstanding people and we are looking forward to attending the Award Ceremony in London.”

His brother George, who is Deputy Head of Grounds, added: “It’s wonderful to have our efforts acknowledged.

“We’ve always loved what we do and to be nominated for an award is something we’ll never forget. It feels like a recognition of the whole team, not just the two of us.”

Peter Worlledge, Bursar and Head of Operational Staff at Fettes said: “Everyone at Fettes is delighted for George and Kevin – now nicknamed our ‘Tatler Twins’! – They are pillars of our school community, who have spent over four decades going the extra mile for students and staff alike.

“Their dedication, care and humour have shaped Fettes in countless ways over the past 40 years and their contributions to our school are innumerable.

“This nomination is a fitting recognition of everything they have done for generations of students and staff, and we hope they enjoy the experience of attending this prestigious event.”

The winners of the Tatler Schools Awards 2026 will be announced at the awards ceremony on Monday 29 September 2025.

Education Scotland recognises ‘outstanding’ curriculum at Fettes College

Fettes students “benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum that is outstanding” says Education Scotland’s recent inspection of Fettes College. The unscheduled inspection was instructed by Scottish Ministers in February, and the findings were published yesterday (2nd September).

Inspectors awarded Fettes excellent ratings in both ‘Curriculum’ and ‘Raising attainment and achievement’, alongside very good ratings in ‘Learning, teaching and assessment’ and ‘Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion’.

Inspectors rightly demand the highest standards, and their report highlights the distinctive strengths of a Fettes education, noting:

Staff have “successfully created a curriculum that supports children and young people to flourish in their academic and personal interests.” and “ensure the curriculum is strongly underpinned by an aspirational vision with a clear focus on academic excellence, building character and supporting personal wellbeing.”
Staff “foster very nurturing and mutually respectful relationships” and are “highly responsive to the wellbeing needs of children and young people”.
Students are “highly motivated to succeed”, producing work “of an exceptionally high standard” and making “excellent progress” in their learning.
Extensive opportunities for students to achieve beyond the classroom, helping them to “know themselves well” and aspire to reach their full potential.
A culture where students, staff and families “celebrate their own and others’ cultural diversity” and observe religious and cultural events together “in an inclusive, respectful way”.
Staff ‘recognise the need to ensure fairness and equality and to identify and mitigate against discrimination and bias in all aspects of the school’s work’.

This is testament to the exceptional work of the team at Fettes, which showed inspectors the values at the heart of the school community — academic ambition, character development, personal wellbeing, and a deeply inclusive culture where every individual is valued.

Head of Fettes College, Helen Harrison, said, “I am immensely proud of everyone at Fettes College – Senior and Prep – and extend my thanks to them all for their commitment and contribution to this fantastic achievement.

“We had a team of inspectors in our school for two weeks and they looked at everything. Their findings, published today about the learning and experience that happens in our classrooms and around our school sets us amongst those at the top of education in Scotland.”

The results of the inspection were published on 2nd September 2025 on the Education Scotland website: https://education.gov.scot/.