Join the SABS and Hibernian Community Foundation monthly Pitch to Plate – Multicultural Meal, bringing together local residents, New Scots, people from all backgrounds, those experiencing difficult circumstances and members of our wider community for an evening of good food, friendship and connection.
Enjoy homemade curries, rice, salad, and naan bread
Fresh fruit kindly sponsored by the Association of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Scotland
Free Entry | All Welcome | No Booking Required
Everyone is warmly welcome to share a meal, meet new people, and celebrate the rich diversity of our community. Whether you are coming along for the food, the company, or simply to connect with others, we would be delighted to see you there.
We would be grateful if you could help spread the word to anyone who may benefit from a warm meal and a welcoming community atmosphere.
A man has been arrested following a fatal incident in Leith.
Emergency services were called to a disturbance outside Cables Wynd House – the Banana Flats – at around 9.40 last night (Sunday 5 July).
A man was found with serious injuries and he died at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.
Police confirmed a 33-year-old man has been arrested and enquiries are ongoing.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 9.40pm on Sunday, July 5, 2026, police received a report of a disturbance outside Cables Wynd House, Edinburgh.
“Officers attended and a man was found with serious injuries. He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, where he died a short time later.
“A 33-year-old man has been arrested and enquiries are ongoing.”
Family-run restaurant group has donated £8,000 to local charities and initiatives over an eight month period
A charitable initiative launched by the family-run Vittoria Hospitality Group has donated over £8,000 in its first six months, supporting a range of Edinburgh-based charities and community organisations.
Established in November 2025 as part of the Vittoria Group’s 55th anniversary celebrations, the Giving Back programme supports grassroots organisations making a difference across the capital, helping people living with disabilities, those facing homelessness, and local young people.
Unlike traditional grant programmes, Giving Back focuses on funding specific items requested by organisations, ensuring donations have a direct and lasting impact.
In its first eight months, the initiative has provided vital, targeted support across the city, including specialist technology and sensory equipment provided to young people with complex or additional support needs at Teens+, Prospect Bank School, and Braidburn Special School.
The fund has also delivered essential supplies for women experiencing homelessness via Sparkle Sisters, supported youth development and literacy resources for the Pilmeny Development Trust and Craigmillar Literacy Trust, as well as sponsoring new sports kits for Redpath Albion FC and vital funding for Muirfield Riding Therapy.
In addition to the £8,000 donated by Vittoria Hospitality Group, one of its suppliers, JB Foods Scotland, contributed a further £1,000 in December.
Leandro Crolla, Director of Vittoria Hospitality Group, said:“When we launched Giving Back, we wanted to create something that would make a real difference to local organisations doing incredible work in our communities.
“Seeing the reaction from the charities, schools and groups we’ve supported has shown us how even relatively small donations can have a significant impact when they reach the right people.
“Edinburgh has supported our family and our business for more than 55 years. This programme is our way of saying thank you and helping strengthen the communities that have been part of our story for generations.”
Talking about the donation of a new football kit for the entire team, Bryan Maughan, coach at Redpath Albion FC, said: “The boys and parents loved them. We wore the matchday kits for the first time at Currie, and they certainly brought us luck as we secured a great 6–2 win in monsoon-like conditions.
“The boys haven’t forgotten the offer of a breakfast roll either, and we’re all looking forward to the visit.”
The initiative is led by the Vittoria Hospitality Group, one of Edinburgh’s longest-established family-run hospitality businesses, now in its fourth generation of family ownership.
Recipients of the donation are chosen through a monthly staff vote, giving employees across the group’s venues the opportunity to nominate and support causes close to their hearts. Schools, charities, youth groups and community organisations across Edinburgh are encouraged to apply for future rounds of support.
For more information or to nominate a local cause, contact:
Excited to be screening Operation Recomply in July.
Operation Recomply, the name given to the counter-terror policing operation, is an independent documentary which follows the events surrounding the Filton 25 case: a group of activists who entered an Elbit Systems facility in Filton, exposing Israeli drones being manufactured on British soil.
Told through the eyes of Filton 25’s loved ones, the film documents their fight for justice as the state escalates its crackdown on the pro-Palestine movement.
Edinburgh International Film Festival 2026 celebrates 30 years of the iconic Scottish film with special event screening and club night
Edinburgh International Film Festival 2026 celebrates 30 years of the iconic Scottish film with special event screening and club night
A special screening of the film with live commentary from cast and crew will be followed by DJ sets from Irvine Welsh and Darren Emerson at Leith Theatre
EIFF will run from 13 – 19 August 2026
Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF), Assembly Festival and Leith Theatre are excited to announce a special 30th anniversary celebration of Danny Boyle’s iconic film Trainspotting with a screening with live commentary from cast and crew followed by a major club night celebrating the iconic soundtrack on Friday 14 August 2026.
Starring Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller, Kevin McKidd, Kelly Macdonald, Peter Mullan, Shirley Henderson and James Cosmo, written by Irvine Welsh and John Hodge and produced by Andrew Macdonald, Trainspotting remains an audacious, innovative, era-defining and darkly funny film about addiction and survival in the heart of Leith in the capital of Scotland.
Based on Irvine Welsh’s incendiary Leith-set novel, the film celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and will be marked by a special live commentary screening in the historic Leith Theatre with cast and crew sharing exclusive behind the scenes anecdotes about the making of the film.
This special screening will be followed by a club night with DJ sets from Irvine Welsh and Darren Emerson, whose music as part of Underworld is synonymous with the film and its iconic soundtrack.
Leith Theatre recently signed a 50-year lease and secured funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund following a 20-year campaign to help secure the future of the renowned Grade B listed building.
EIFF’s 79th edition runs from 13 – 19 August 2026.
EIFF CEO and Festival Director, Paul Ridd has said: “Ask anyone about Scotland and cinema and the first things they would likely think of would be Sean Connery and Trainspotting.
“For the past couple of years we have kept the memory and legacy of Connery in Edinburgh alive with our features competition, and now this year we are thrilled to finally honour the most iconic Scottish film ever made in the place where it originated and with a new spin.
“The opportunity to hear directly from the people who made the film followed by the thrill of celebrating that iconic soundtrack together should make for a night for the ages. That we get to do all that in a venue as full of promise and renewal as Leith Theatre is the icing on the cake. We cannot wait!”
Andrew Macdonald, Producer of Trainspotting said:“Hard to believe it, but it has indeed been thirty years since we made Trainspotting, and I am delighted that it is heading back to Leith where the whole story began, to celebrate this big anniversary.
“Big thanks to the teams at Assembly Festival, Leith Theatre and of course Edinburgh International Film Festival for making this all happen.
“It is going to be a very special night.”
Farhana Bhula, Director of Film4 said: “Thirty years after its release, Trainspotting remains one of the defining films of British cinema.
“Film4 is incredibly proud to have been part of bringing this landmark film to the screen, and we’re delighted to join Edinburgh International Film Festival in celebrating its legacy where it all began.
“Returning Trainspotting to Leith for this special anniversary is a fitting tribute to a film that continues to shape the cultural conversation three decades on.”
Lynn Morrison, Chief Executive of Leith Theatre Trust said:“Thirty years on, Trainspotting remains as one of the most influential cultural stories to come out of Leith and continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
“We’re excited to be partnering with Edinburgh International Film Festival to welcome audiences for an evening that brings together film, live commentary, music and some of the people who helped shape one of Scotland’s most iconic films.
“This is an event that showcases the breadth of experiences Leith Theatre can host and highlights the growing role the venue is playing within Edinburgh’s cultural landscape.
“If there was ever a place to celebrate Trainspotting’s legacy, it has to be here.”
Dani Rae, Managing Director of Assembly Festival:“We are delighted to be working alongside the team at EIFF and Leith Theatre to bring Trainspotting back to the heart of Leith for a night to remember.
“Assembly Festival have been producing events in this city for over 40 years and are looking forward to adding to the story of the hallowed halls of such an iconic building, with the scenes of such an iconic moment from the city’s rich cultural history.”
Following the EIFF premiere, Trainspotting will be re-released by Park Circus in UK & Ireland cinemas from 21 August and thereafter internationally. The re-release from Park Circus will also screen as part of Rip it Up, the BFI Film Audience Network’s UK-wide film season that explores and celebrates the changing face of youth rebellion, culture and expression – from joy to heartbreak.
Press and Industry accreditation is now open for this year’s Festival and available to apply for via the EIFF website.
Cables Wynd House and Linksview House are two Category A listed Brutalist towers in Edinburgh’s Leith Conservation Area, providing 310 homes, over 98% for social rent.
Now over 60 years old, they face the combined challenge of meeting contemporary living standards, complying with ambitious social housing policy, and preserving their national heritage significance.
This project demonstrates how deep retrofit can extend the life of nationally important housing while delivering safe, warm and comfortable homes. A whole-block, EnerPHit-informed approach reduces space heating demand by 88% and overall energy use by 80% per dwelling, enabling the transition from gas to direct electric heating whilst eliminating fuel poverty.
The project responds to the City of Edinburgh Council’s ambition for transformational change and sustainable regeneration.
It takes a holistic view of energy, comfort, health, safety and placemaking — putting people at the heart of retrofit. Residents’ lived experience has shaped the brief through our Home Standard Tool, establishing priorities that inform both design and delivery.
This ongoing engagement ensures improvements respond directly to how homes are used and experienced, while maintaining community continuity throughout.
A whole-block, fabric-first strategy upgrades performance, reduces energy demand and enables a transition away from fossil fuels while conserving the buildings’ architectural identity. An EnerPHit-informed approach, supported by detailed modelling and a bespoke Energy and Carbon Cost tool, balances carbon reduction, affordability, buildability and resident impact.
From a conservation perspective, the approach recognises that the buildings’ significance lies in their overall form and presence — the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Defining elements, including exposed aggregate concrete cladding, are retained and repaired, with most fabric upgrades delivered internally to protect the façades.
A repair-led approach integrates insulation, improved ventilation and new services, demonstrating that nationally significant heritage can achieve high environmental performance without compromising identity while retaining embodied carbon.
The project addresses long-standing challenges including thermal bridging, poor airtightness and outdated services. Improvements to ventilation, fire safety and access are integrated alongside fabric upgrades, ensuring homes are warm, healthy and safe. At ground level, new community hubs and improved entrances strengthen connections between residents and their surroundings.
Phasing has been considered from an early stage to allow residents to remain within the buildings throughout the works, recognising the importance of social continuity. By treating comfort, affordability and dignity as performance criteria alongside energy and carbon, the project demonstrates how retrofit can be part of a just transition.
John Swinney First Minister meets Muslim community members following Edinburgh attacks
The Scottish Government stands in solidarity with Muslim communities across Scotland, First Minister John Swinney has said, as he visited local Mosques in the wake of the recent attacks in Edinburgh.
The First Minister heard directly from victims of the attack at Broomhouse Mosque, before travelling to Annandale Mosque to meet members of the local community and senior Mosque leaders. He was joined on both visits by Superintendent Neil Wilson of Police Scotland’s Edinburgh Division.
Mr Swinney said Scotland stands for inclusivity and compassion, adding: “I unequivocally condemn the heinous attacks in Edinburgh, and my thoughts are firmly with all those who have been affected.
!Let me be absolutely clear, no one in Scotland should fear being targeted because of who they are.
“Any form of hatred, prejudice, intolerance or violence on our streets is completely unacceptable – and perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with Police Scotland and partners to ensure appropriate support is in place to support public safety following the incident in Edinburgh.
“I am particularly mindful of the impact recent events can have on those already feeling vulnerable, and I understand that many people will be feeling anxious.
“I want to give them my complete assurance that my government stands firmly in solidarity with Muslim communities across the country.
“We will do everything we possibly can do to ensure everyone in every community feels safe, protected and included and we will always stand against those who would seek to divide our communities.
“Acts of hatred and division will not define Scotland, our shared values of respect, inclusion and compassion will. Together, we must continue working together to strengthen trust and understanding in all of our communities.”
City council leader Councillor Jane Meagher said: “I was shocked and outraged to hear about the appalling incidents that took place across the city on Friday.
“I, and fellow Councillors, stand in solidarity with those affected by what must have been a deeply traumatic experience. My thoughts are with those injured in the attacks and I wish them a quick recovery.
“I want to pay tribute to Police Scotland, including counter terrorism officers, and other emergency services for their quick action.
“I absolutely echo the words of Police Scotland that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate. I condemn all acts of racist violence and disorder – there is simply no place for it in our city.
“Those in our Muslim communities may understandably be feeling worried and concerned. I want to reassure that we will be working closely with Police colleagues and other partners to do all we can to make sure that communities across the city are safe and supported.
“Edinburgh is a proud diverse and welcoming city – strengthened by those from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and walks of life that live here. Incidents like this remind us of the need to stand together against racism and prejudice.”
Local MP Tracy Gilbert said: “There is no place for hatred or Islamophobia in Edinburgh.“
Update following incidents that happened in Edinburgh on Friday 19 June:
We recognise the concerns felt within all communities, including those who experienced and witnessed these horrific attacks, and we understand concerns may be heightened at this time. Policing and communities experience the direct impact and live time reactions to international conflicts, UK incidents and online commentary.
It is important that all communities across Scotland feel supported, protected and able to go about their daily lives without fear of hatred or intimidation.
Community cohesion is a partnership effort. Since Friday, we have engaged with over 90 multi-faith organisations and community leaders in Edinburgh and across Scotland. Local policing officers have visited businesses affected by the incident and will continue to do so. We are carrying out a community impact assessment and will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities, and we are prepared to respond promptly to any emerging issues.
We have also been in touch with the police officers who bravely carried out the arrest on Friday, as well as speaking to other officers to offer any support they need.
A 36-year-old man was arrested and charged, and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today. While there is no wider threat, it continues to be a live ongoing investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland, supported by local policing officers in Edinburgh and other specialist national capabilities in Scotland.
The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.
We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist to upload it using the online form, including those with doorbell or dashcam footage
Anyone impacted by the incident can access free, confidential, emotional and practical support from Victim Support Scotland https://orlo.uk/x0Grk
We would urge everyone to continue to work together and ensure no person or group in Scotland feels marginalised or isolated. We are a police service for every community.
Our message is clear – there is no place for violence, hatred, or intimidation in our communities.
The Leith Collective launches free school uniform exchange to help families in need
They say your school days are the best days of your life. But for many pupils in Edinburgh, just making it to the school gates can be an issue, especially for those whose families are struggling to cover the cost of basic essentials such as a uniform.
And so, before the current term draws to a close, one local Community Interest Company is launching a free school uniform exchange, so every pupil can start the new academic year in August looking smart and feeling confident.
Back for the fourth year, The Leith Collective will open a free school uniform exchange within its Ocean Terminal and Fort Kinnaird stores in Edinburgh, as well as its store at the Overgate Centre in Dundee on Friday 26th June. Here, families in need can collect good quality uniforms, coats, gym kits, shoes, schoolbags and pencil cases, completely free of charge, no questions asked.
The aim of this initiative is to give all pupils an equal start to the school year, as The Leith Collective founder Sara Thomson explains; “Every day I see first-hand the huge inequality here in Edinburgh.
“Education has the power to provide a path out of poverty, but for some children, just accessing that education is fraught with obstacles. A lack of uniform is one of them.
“I hope that providing good quality items, no child will feel forced to skip school because they fear being judged for not having a uniform or for wearing ill-fitting or worn-out items. All children should start school on an equal footing, and uniforms shouldn’t hold anyone back.”
To ensure there are enough uniform items to meet demand, The Leith Collection is calling on locals to donate good quality pre-loved items, and businesses to donate surplus new stock.
People can donate and collect items at any of The Leith Collective stores during opening hours.
Tuesday 7th July 2026
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Hibernian Community Foundation, Famous Five Stand, Easter Road Stadium, Edinburgh, EH7 5QG
Enjoy homemade curries, rice, salad, and naan bread
Fresh fruit kindly sponsored by the Association of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Scotland
Free Entry | All Welcome | No Booking Required
7pm (doors open at 6.40pm)
£6.50 – £10
