TUESDAY 27th NOVEMBER from 4.30 – 7.30pm
Join ELREC at Leith Library ELREC, 28-30 Ferry Rd, for a festive bookmarks making workshop supported by Leith Chooses Grants!
We will be making bookmarks while enjoying tea, chats and making crafts 
Register here:
Following reports of stolen property being reset on Leith Walk, Edinburgh, Leith Community Officers, supported by Edinburgh Retail Crime Team, executed warrants at two business premises.
Approximately £8k of suspected stolen property was recovered, and enquiries are ongoing to ensure the property is returned to its rightful owners.
Two males were arrested and will be reported for reset.
Shoplifting is #NotAVictimlessCrime and #NECPT will continue to work with the #RetailCrimeTaskforce to identify offenders, including those benefiting from the acquisition of stolen property
Film fans in Edinburgh can now enjoy the latest releases in the ultimate comfort with the arrival of Vue’s signature Ultra Lux seat at its Ocean Terminal venue.
The Ultra Lux is the best seat in the screen and is available for Ocean Terminal customers to experience from 7 November.
To mark its arrival, Vue has worked with The Flash Pack to create a bespoke video booth for customers, to give a taster of the immersive experience they can expect from watching a film in an Ultra Lux seat.
Customers visiting Ocean Terminal on 7 and 8 November tried out the special 360 video booth which was located within the foyer, and took a 360 video of customers sitting in the luxurious seat.
112 Ultra Lux seats have been installed across Vue Ocean Terminal’s 12 screens.
Each seat provides the very best view of the screen and comes with a host of premium features including an extra-wide armrest and personal table for snacks and beverages, and a back and legs which recline independently, allowing customers to find the most relaxing viewing position possible.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue Ocean Terminal, said: “We have invested in bringing Vue’s best seating option to Ocean Terminal and look forward to unveiling it to customers from 7 November. It is truly the best way to immerse yourself in a film and to have the most comfortable experience.
“The interactive video booth is a fantastic opportunity to test out the Ultra Lux and have a fun video to keep and share on social media, which will be emailed to each customer who visits the booth.”
Tickets for Ocean Terminal can be booked online by visiting myvue.com.
A new sauna is coming to Edinburgh this autumn. Puffin Sauna, a converted horse trailer turned wood-fired sauna, will soon be setting up on Leith Links.
Located within Leith Community Croft – home of the charity Earth in Common – the sauna will sit alongside the urban croft’s food-growing plots, Sunday market, Populus Cafe and regular community events. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and unwind.
Set to open on Saturday 29 November, Puffin Sauna will host community sessions for up to six people, with two refreshing cold plunge barrels for the full contrast therapy experience.
Designed to be welcoming and relaxed, Puffin Sauna is open to all, whether you’re a seasoned sauna-goer or it’s your first time.
Follow @puffinsauna on Instagram to be the first to know when booking opens, and to see behind-the-scenes updates as the sauna is installed at Leith Community Croft.
Max Schilling, founder of Puffin Sauna said: “Sauna culture is booming in Scotland and we’re so excited to be adding to it.
“Leith Community Croft is the perfect setting for an urban sauna and as a community hub, so it’ll be the ideal place to come and disconnect from the day-to-day, recover from a gym session, catch up with mates.
“Wellness isn’t exclusive, it’s for everyone, so come and give it a go!”
A MAJOR new survey has confirmed that physical workspace remains essential for Scotland’s third sector – with a vast majority of respondents citing daily reliance on dedicated offices and meeting space.
The study, conducted by Norton Park, found that 92% of organisations surveyed continue to depend on physical work environments, despite the broader move toward remote and hybrid working models.
The survey captured data from more than 100 representatives across the charitable and social enterprise landscape, offering new insight into how Edinburgh’s not-for-profit sector is evolving in a post-pandemic context.
Located beside Easter Road stadium in Edinburgh, Norton Park has provided high-quality, affordable office space for third sector organisations since 1998. It currently hosts 25 charities and non-profits in a fully modernised Grade B listed building.
Keith Robertson, Chief Executive of Norton Park, said: “The data clearly demonstrates that demand for physical workspace remains high. Charities continue to view in-person working as vital – not only for internal collaboration and wellbeing, but for the effective delivery of their services.
“Our model allows us to meet that demand with ethical, affordable, and accessible space designed specifically for the third sector.”
The research revealed that 81% of respondents operate a hybrid model – however, a significant number still use their workspace four or five days per week.
The findings also reveal that organisational values strongly influence decision-making, with 89% stating that social justice commitments impact their choice of landlord or venue, and 80% expressing a preference for working with not-for-profit providers.
Keith added: “Charities are having to make every pound stretch further. Our ownership model lets us keep costs low, offer long-term stability, and reinvest directly into facilities – all of which supports the sustainability of our tenants.
“Affordability has always mattered – but right now, with rising costs and a funding crisis across the third sector, it’s absolutely critical. This research confirms that charities need spaces that don’t drain resources – and that’s exactly what Norton Park provides.”
Housed in a restored Grade B listed building that once served as a school and church, Norton Park provides a welcoming base for organisations, offering adaptable lease options, inclusive rental packages, and a collaborative community atmosphere.
The hub is home to a diverse range of leading organisations, among them well-known charities such as Cyrenians, Samaritans and Edinburgh Young Carers.
Keith added: “This research gives us confidence that the role of physical space in the third sector is not only secure but essential. Norton Park is proud to be part of that future. We provide a place where charities can do their best work, together.”
Amongst other priorities, the survey found that most organisations looked for accessibility and inclusivity as one of their top priorities, with neurodiverse-friendly features and wellbeing spaces.
Norton Park offers physical accessibility features and prides itself on social and financial inclusivity.
As Edinburgh’s pioneering office space dedicated solely to charities and social enterprises, Norton Park provides affordable accommodation tailored for registered charities, community organisations, and public sector bodies.
A man has been sentenced to nine years in prison for the attempted murder of a 48-year-old man in Edinburgh.
Patrick Moohan (pictured), also 48, was convicted of attempted murder after pleading guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh on Thursday, 30 October, 2025. He was sentenced the same day.
Moohan carried out the knife attack on the man on London Road in Leith on Monday, 14 April, 2025.
Detective Sergeant Craig McMillan said: “This was an extremely vicious display of violence and the man suffered serious injuries.
“I hope this sentence sends a clear message that violence is completely unacceptable.
“Police Scotland are committed to bringing perpetrators to justice and we will continue to work closely with our partners to do so.”
LIMINAL: OUT OF THE DRILL HALL until 6 NOVEMBER – FREE EXHIBITION
Liminal, a new exhibition showcasing artwork created by young people who are treated at the city’s Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, is open for one week in Edinburgh.
Running until Thursday 6 November, the exhibition has been developed through a collaboration between the Mental Health Foundation, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC), and artist Louise Fraser, as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival. Liminal explores the emotional and physical “in-between” spaces that young people often navigate between childhood and adulthood, wellness and illness, comfort and unease.
The exhibition features imaginative and deeply personal work created by young people who have spent time in hospital settings. They participated in a series of workshops to create their artwork and co-produce the exhibition.
Through drawing, painting, and mixed media, they reflect on identity, transition, and the complexity of growing up while managing health challenges.
Poppy Porteous, age 13 from Linlithgow, is one of the young artists whose work is on display. She was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when she was 7 years old and has been attending medical appointments at the hospital since.
Poppy said: “Living with a long-term health condition can be scary and frustrating sometimes, so doing art like this really helped me feel better. I got involved in the Liminal project after taking part in a teddy photography activity through the hospital and ECHC.
“I loved being part of Liminal. It was so much fun and everyone was really kind. My artwork shows the creative and messy side of me, especially the wooden block paintings. It felt great to be allowed to try everything and I love seeing my artwork on display”.
Ilayda Balkan, age 15 from Edinburgh, was diagnosed with Polyarthritic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)in April 2024. Her rheumatology nurse at the hospital introduced her to the arts project.
Ilayda said: “My nurse told me about the Liminal project before she retired, it felt like a gift she left me. Taking part was a lovely experience. I met kind, creative people and felt a real sense of empathy, even though we didn’t know each other’s stories.
“The project gave me space to express myself freely, and my artwork reflects that – especially my sunset paintings, which remind me of my family’s home in Turkey. Living with a long-term health condition can be really tough, but projects like this show that your illness doesn’t define you. It’s your kindness and strength that truly shine.”
The Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, led by the Mental Health Foundation, is one of Scotland’s most diverse cultural festivals, and the biggest festival of its kind in the world. It celebrates and encourages using the arts to explore mental health, challenge stigma, and promote wellbeing.
Gill Means, Project Manager at Mental Health Foundation said: “Liminal has been a powerful and moving project to be part of.
“The young people involved have shared their experiences with honesty, creativity and courage, and their artwork speaks volumes about what it means to live with a long-term health condition.
“This exhibition is a celebration of their voices, their imagination, and the strength they’ve shown in expressing themselves through art.”
Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) works to transform the hospital experience for children and young people by supporting their health and wellbeing through creativity, play and connection.
Creative projects offer a vital outlet for imagination and emotional resilience and help make hospital a place where children can still be children.
ECHC works in partnership with NHS Lothian to help seriously ill children and their families have a positive hospital experience.
Tonya McMullan, Arts Officer at ECHC, said: “We see firsthand, every day, how creativity gives children in hospital a way to express themselves, have fun and just be children again.
“Art can help them cope with tough days and give them some choice and control at a time when they have very little. “We’re so inspired by all the young people who took part in Liminal. Their artwork is powerful, moving and so inspiring.”
Liminal is on display at Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh EH6 8RG until Thursday 6 November 2025. The gallery is open daily, 10am–5pm
For more information, visit www.mhfestival.com
Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre has teamed up with Scottish artist Helen Denerley and Edinburgh Zoo to deliver a primary school design project in celebration of the leisure and entertainment destination’s Dreaming Spires sculpture’s 20th anniversary this year.
P6 students at St Mary’s RC Primary School were invited to take part in a special design project entitled Sustainable Safari: Guardians of Tomorrow to commemorate the milestone. The Dreaming Spires giraffes, Martha and Gilbert, took centre stage in the artwork, while the background showcased each student’s take on a world where nature and people thrive together.
The OMNi team and Dreaming Spires Artist Helen Denerley attended St Mary’s on Friday 24 October to judge the 52 designs. Artwork elements included trees, animals, clean energy sources, and the use of abstract shapes and colours to show a healthy, sustainable environment.
P6 student, Nathan Glowacki, aged 10 was crowned design project winner for their detailed presentation of the giraffe form and the inclusion of a jumping calf. The design will be turned into an animation for all to see on OMNi’s new digital screen on completion of the centre refurbishment.
As a thank you, the participating students will enjoy a school trip to Edinburgh Zoo to learn about the giraffes and the conservation efforts of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).
Earlier this year, OMNi announced a 12-month corporate partnership with wildlife conservation charity RZSS and adopted a resident giraffe at Edinburgh Zoo.
Nicola Kehoe, Head Teacher of St Mary’s RC Primary School, said: “It’s been wonderful to work closely with OMNi on this exciting design project.
“The P6 students were inspired by Helen Denerley’s use of recycled materials and Edinburgh Zoo’s conservation work – and their individual take on this was reflected in the variety of designs created.
“The children are incredibly excited for their upcoming reward trip to Edinburgh Zoo, including a visit to OMNi’s adopted giraffe. The project has created a great start to the new term – combining creativity, fun, and learning for all.”
Eilidh Parker, OMNi Deputy Centre Manager, said: “We were blown away by the creative talent of the P6 students. Each and every design was truly terrific, and we cannot wait to see the winning design come to life on OMNi’s brand new internal digital screen as part of our centre refurbishment.
“Special thanks to St Mary’s and our project partners Edinburgh Zoo and Helen Denerley. An inspiring collaboration, aligning beautifully with OMNi’s evolution towards a vibrant and welcoming destination firmly rooted into the local community.”
The school project brings the sculpture’s 20th celebrations to a triumphant close. Earlier this year, OMNi adorned the giraffe sculptures with tassel party hats and created online excitement during a 4- week social media prize draw.
Over the years, Dreaming Spires sculpture has become a favoured local landmark and a meeting point for friends, families, and visitors.
As the centre undergoes a £5 million refurbishment, Martha and Gilbert remain a symbol of creativity, connection and community – values that are central to OMNi’s vision for the future.
Stay tuned for exciting things to come in the new year. OMNi and its brands remains open and welcomes visitors throughout the centre refurbishment.
Visit the OMNi website for refurbishment updates: https://omniedinburgh.co.uk/
HARBOUR Homes’ North Edinburgh Awards are all about celebrating what makes Leith and north Edinburgh an amazing place to live.
The inaugural awards night, organised by Harbour Homes, took place at Out of the Blue Drill Hall on Thursday 23 October 2025. The evening kicked off with a magic show and community get-together before the winners were revealed.
Tenants of Harbour Homes and members of the local community nominated neighbours, volunteers, local businesses and community groups who they felt deserved a big thank you.
The categories were: Good Neighbour, Community Champion, Community Group, and Favourite Local Business.
Heather Kiteley, Chief Executive at Harbour Homes said: “We created this event to bring the community together as part of our 50th celebrations.
“It was a much-needed celebration of the people who make our communities great. All those nominated were deserving of the recognition on the night, and I am immensely grateful for the positive impact they have on the lives of our tenants and the wider community.”
The winners announced on the night were:
Nominations were encouraged to shine a spotlight on the everyday heroes around us. Dana Hunter received several nominations for looking out for her neighbours and being a kind and caring member of the community.
Dana said: “I didn’t expect to be nominated or to win, a big thank you to my neighbours.”
Daniel Ndlovu participates as a youth volunteer with YMCA Edinburgh and was nominated for his fantastic attitude and commitment to improving his local community. He plays an important role in the Friday Night Lights project which has been linked with a 25% reduction in anti social behaviour on the evening it runs.
The Community Group Award went to The Citadel whose nominations highlighted the excellent work they do with young people and families of Leith.
Willy Barr, Manager, The Citadel, said: “Winning the North Edinburgh Community Group Award was a real boost to everyone involved at The Citadel.
“We love being in the heart of the Community in Leith and we have so many stories of bringing people together, trying new things, facing challenges together but most important of all, having fun!
“Well done to the other finalists and winners – we are all part of what makes Leith a great place to be.”
Quirkys won Favourite Local Business and received multiple nominations for their helpfulness and for uplifting the appearance of the local area.
Stuart Wright, owner of Quirkys plants said: “Thank you so much for this massively encouraging award.
“I am really grateful to my fantastic customers who continue to support me and other small businesses.”
Tracy Gilbert MP’s Absent Voting (Scotland and Wales) Bill, the first Private Member’s Bill of the new Parliament, has now received Royal Assent, officially becoming law.
The new legislation will make it easier for voters in Scotland and Wales to apply for a postal or proxy vote in devolved elections, allowing them to do so online.
Currently, voters must apply for postal or proxy votes using physical forms, a process that can be particularly challenging for people with disabilities or those living overseas. The new law will remove those barriers and modernise the voting system ahead of next year’s Scottish and Welsh elections.
Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I’m incredibly proud that my Bill has now become law, and as the first Private Member’s Bill of this Parliament to do so.
“It now gives both the Scottish and Welsh Governments the time they need to implement these changes ahead of next year’s Holyrood and Senedd elections, ensuring voters can benefit from this new, more accessible system.”
