Category: Leith

Full Circle expedition: Veterans sail into Leith carrying Invictus Games Flag on 2,000-mile UK adventure

Two traditionally rigged tall ships, Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew, crewed by a rotating team of 70 wounded, injured and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel, sailed into Leith, yesterday (Thursday 23 April) as part of the Full Circle Expedition.

The voyage, coordinated by local veteran sailing charity Turn to Starboard and delivered in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, aims to raise £300,000 so the charity can purchase a second tall ship to support more veterans facing PTSD, physical injury, isolation and a loss of confidence.

Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event that uses competitive sport to support the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS service personnel and veterans, bringing together nations from around the world to share their journeys of resilience.

Full Circle set sail from Falmouth on 17 March 2026 and will travel anticlockwise around the UK, stopping at 22 ports in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, before returning to Falmouth on 11 June 2026.

The voyage will carry the Invictus Games Flag around the UK, building momentum towards the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 one-year-to-go event at the NEC in July 2026.

The crew is expected to dock in Leith for eight days. There, the Invictus Flag will be handed over to the City of Edinburgh and raised to honour the crew, local veterans and all of those competing at the Invictus Games. Formalities will also a civic drinks reception hosted by the Lord Provost at the City Chambers.

Further engagements across the visit will include a commemorative Anzac Day wreath laying at Edinburgh Castle, live music and cultural gatherings, and a series of community visits such as to SS Explorer and the Poppy Factory.

Sir Nick Hine, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Marine Sector, said: “At Babcock, supporting veterans is a responsibility we take seriously. Leaving the Armed Forces can be challenging, particularly for those who are wounded, injured or sick, which is why initiatives like Full Circle are so important in helping to restore confidence, purpose and connection. 

“We are proud to sponsor the Leith stop on this remarkable journey, backing a programme that recognises service in a meaningful, practical way and helps veterans to thrive long after their time in uniform.”

To donate to Full Circle and help Turn to Starboard purchase a second tall ship, so that the charity can support more veterans facing challenges such as PTSD, physical injury, isolation and loss of confidence. visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/t2sfullcircle

Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard said: “This expedition brings together two organisations committed to empowering veterans through challenge, camaraderie and community, each united in the belief that adventure can be truly transformative.

“While Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, Turn to Starboard draws on the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, restore purpose and help veterans navigate life with intention and fulfilment.

“More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together.

“We can’t wait to bring this inspiring message to Leith to reach more veterans and highlight their challenges and remarkable achievements.

“The journey is divided into five legs, with a crew changeover for each one: Falmouth to Chatham, Chatham to Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Oban, Oban to Liverpool, and Liverpool back to Falmouth.”

Paul Miller, Army veteran and skipper of Spirit of Falmouth, said: “Being part of this expedition fills me with real pride. It has reminded me how far I’ve come in my own recovery and how much further we can all go together.

“Sailing the Invictus Games Flag around the UK is deeply meaningful. It represents courage, determination and community – values that we must hold on to after military service ends.

“Taking the Invictus Flag on this journey feels especially meaningful. It carries the hopes of so many people rebuilding their lives through courage and community. Seeing Turn to Starboard and the Invictus Games come together in this way is powerful – every mile we sail, and every donation raised, helps build resilience and support the veteran community.”

Full Circle forms part of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 Impact Programme. Through teamwork, challenge and time at sea, the expedition will help inspire the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS veterans who are suffering from trauma as a result of their service.

Captain Lee Hazard RN, Director of Special Projects, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 said: “With the Invictus Games Flag onboard, these remarkable veterans led by Turn to Starboard will utilise their military skills to sail with purpose and skill. Full Circle shows that recovery doesn’t only happen on the field of play – it happens through challenge, connection and community.

“As we build towards Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, the Full Circle Expedition is helping the nation see the strength and resilience of those who serve today and those who have served before them.”

To follow the expedition on social media, visit:

www.turntostarboard.co.uk and www.invictusgames2027.org; and follow progress through Instagram (@fullcirclet2s and @Birmingham_2027), TikTok (fullcirclet2s and weareinvictusgames), Facebook (Full Circle T2S and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027), X (@Birmingham2027) and LinkedIn (Turn to Starboard and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027).

Turn to Starboard would like to thank Babcock International Group for their support of the Leith Stop as well as the Invictus Games Foundation, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, principal partner ATCO and our founding partner AirTanker; and partners – Team Forces, Palo Alto, Forces Support and Just Giving ; and official supporters – Aku, Gill, Morrisons, Mustang Survival, NSSLGlobal and SunGod for supporting the Full Circle Expedition.

PICTURES: Gareth Davies

Edinburgh MP says websites advertising prostitution “facilitating industrial scale sex-trafficking”

TRACY GILBERT URGES POLICE TO LAUNCH CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, Tracy Gilbert MP, the Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, accused websites advertising prostitution of facilitating industrial-scale sex-trafficking in Scotland and revealed she has written to Police Scotland urging them to launch a criminal investigation into the websites, which continue to openly operate in Scotland.

Websites advertising prostitution are commercial online platforms dedicated solely or partly to advertising individuals for prostitution. A report in February by the UK’s Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner identified nearly 63,000 listings of women across 12 websites advertising prostitution in the UK at a single point in time. In just one month, the same websites received almost 41.7 million visits. 

Frequently referred to as ‘pimping websites’, the UK Government has acknowledged through a written parliamentary question that “adult service websites are now the most significant enabler of trafficking for sexual exploitation”.

Leading a debate in the UK Parliament on sex trafficking in Scotland, Tracy Gilbert MP argued that it is not just third-party criminals using these websites who should be the focus of police attention. Instead, it should be the website operators themselves facing investigation for sex trafficking.

https://twitter.com/i/status/2046563957708558669

In her speech, the Edinburgh North and Leith MP revealed that she had written to the Chief Constable at Police Scotland, urging a criminal investigation into pimping websites.

She stated that websites advertising prostitution knowingly aid prostitution and facilitate the travel of individuals for prostitution – by listing and categorising prostitution adverts according to whether the advertised individual will do so-called ‘outcalls’ – which is where a person travels to the sex buyer for the purpose of prostitution.

These actions, Tracy Gilbert MP stated, mean that the websites themselves constitute human trafficking operations under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015.

Following the debate, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “It is a national scandal that the individuals operating Adultwork and Vivastreet have not only been allowed to operate for years with total impunity, but that they have been publicly presented by Government and the National Crime Agency as partners in tackling sex trafficking.

“Pimping websites openly and explicitly facilitate the transportation or transfer of individuals for prostitution. The operators of these platforms publish prostitution adverts in a standardised format – which includes specifying whether the individual being advertised will do ‘out-calls’. …Facilitating the transportation of individuals for prostitution is built into the architecture of Adultwork and Vivastreet.

“I believe the seriousness and scale of these activities warrant an immediate criminal investigation.”

report_behind-the-profile_sexual-exploitation-and-trafficking-through-adult-services-websitesDownload

Spring Forage at Leith Community Croft

Join us at Leith Community Croft for a playful gathering rooted in nature, foraging, and connection.

This is a guided, small-group experience designed to help you step out of the noise of daily life and into something a little softer, a little lighter — where curiosity, play, and presence lead the way.

Dates:

• Saturday, 2 May, 1-3pm

• Saturday, 16 May, 1-3pm

• Saturday, 30 May, 1-3pm

What to expect:

• A warm, informal welcome to the space

• Playful time outdoors (slow wandering, noticing, playful exploration of the land)

• Seasonal, nature-based practices (simple, accessible, and lightly guided)

• Building knowledge of seasonal plants and easy preparations

This isn’t a workshop in the traditional sense — there’s nothing to get right. It’s an invitation to slow down, follow your curiosity, and engage with the croft in a way that feels natural, relaxed, and a little bit playful.

Who it’s for:

• Anyone feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or in need of a reset

• People curious about nature-based practices (no experience needed)

• Those who want a playful, supportive space with a touch of lightness and joy

Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing — we’ll be outdoors for the duration of the session.

Spaces are limited to keep the group small and personal.

Book your place using the link in our bio!

Well earned award for the Dreadnought pub in Leith

The Dreadnought was recently declared Edinburgh Pub of the Year by members of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland Branch of CAMRA – the Campaign for Real Ale.

During the previous year, CAMRA members had been visiting pubs and scoring their beer – making  an assessment of  how well it had been kept and served, submitting their scores online. 

In February, members met to consider a short-list of the highest scoring pubs. This had been compiled  using an algorithm that takes account of the number of people scoring, the number of visits the scores related to, as well as the scores themselves.  The pubs on the short list were  those which  consistently offered well kept beer. By secret ballot, members then voted for their Pub of the Year, in the 3 areas the Branch covers – Edinburgh, the Lothians outside Edinburgh, and the Borders.

The photograph (TOP) shows pub landlord, Toby Saltonstall, on 15 April, being presented with a framed commemorative certificate by Chris Miller, Branch Chair, at a gathering in the pub.

The presentation was greeted by much applause, from the crowd of regular patrons who had assembled to celebrate this special event.

The pub has been runner-up on a number of occasions, so this win was not entirely a surprise!

Police: Have you seen Lauren?

!!! ALERT – LAUREN HAS BEEN TRACED !!!

POLICE are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 19-year-old woman reported missing in the Leith area.

Lauren Fulton was last seen around 8.30am on Friday, 17 April, 2026, in the Ferry Road area.

She is described as around 5ft 8ins, of slim build with bushy brown hair and usually wears glasses. When last seen Lauren was wearing grey sweatpants, a dark grey jacket and headphones.

Sergeant James Muir said: “Concerns are growing for Lauren’s welfare and it is important we make sure she is safe and well.

“We are asking anyone who has seen Lauren or knows where she might be to get in touch. If you are out and about in the area please keep a lookout for her.”

If you can help, please contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0648 of Friday, 17 April, 2026.

Tracy Gilbert MP tables motion to recognise Anne Munro’s 47 years of service to Leith communit

Tracy Gilbert MP has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising the incredible contribution of Anne Munro, who is retiring after 47 years of dedicated service with the Pilmeny Development Project in Leith.

The Pilmeny Development Project has been supporting residents since 1979, working to improve the quality of life and strengthen community connections across north-east Edinburgh.

Commenting, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “Anne’s commitment to the people of Leith over nearly five decades has been extraordinary. Through her work with the Pilmeny Development Project, she has made a huge difference to countless lives across our community.

“This Early Day Motion is a small but important way to recognise Anne’s contribution and to thank her for the dedication, compassion and leadership she has shown throughout her career.

“On behalf of Edinburgh North and Leith, I wish Anne a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.”

The link to the EDM is here: 

Anne Munro retires after 47 years from Pilmeny Development Project – Early Day Motions – UK Parliament

OMNi To Host The Big Meet Event in May After £5M Transformation

OMNI NEARS COMPLETION OF £5 MILLION TRANSFORMATION AND INVITES  EDINBURGH TO BIG REVEAL EVENT ON SATURDAY 2 MAY 

Edinburgh’s leisure and entertainment destination, OMNi, is adding the finishing touches  to its fresh new look as the £5 million pound refurbishment enters its final stages – signalling the start  of an exciting new chapter for the much-loved city centre destination. 

The refurb project has delivered significant enhancements to the public realm with the aim of creating  a more welcoming space for visitors to meet and enjoy.

Improvements include new flooring throughout  the centre, an upgraded and more visible main entrance, modern LED lighting, new seating zones,  and extensive internal structural improvements. 

Neil Mackie, OMNi Centre Manager, said: “OMNi is on a mission to get Edinburgh to meet more and enjoy more. With a renewed focus  on community and connection, the revitalised OMNi aims to become the go-to spot for affordable fun, and meeting point for everyday moments in Edinburgh, from morning coffees  before exploring the city and family meals after a day out.

“We’re excited for everyone to  experience the newly refurbished entertainment destination for all.” 

The refreshed centre marks the start of a new chapter for OMNi and brings with it a programme of  planned and surprise enlivenment and events into 2026 and beyond.

To celebrate new beginnings,  OMNi is hosting The Big Meet on Saturday 2 May – a free event designed to bring the people of  Edinburgh together and give back to the community. 

The Big Meet will bring a burst of feel-good energy to the centre between 11am and 5pm. OMNi brand  ambassadors will be surprising visitors with complimentary coffees, meals, cinema tickets and other  treats, while brands offer up one-day-only deals. Guests can also take home a personalised sketch  from a live illustrator, along with a few extra surprises along the way. 

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, OMNi has donated a significant £180,000 over three years to the University of Edinburgh’s Access Edinburgh Scholarship  programme, which supports students from low‑income backgrounds.

The funding will aid 30  undergraduates, with each scholar receiving a total of £3,000 per year. This is funded equally from  OMNi and the University, to help students with personal and academic costs.

Thomas Archer Bata, Director at Triple B, said: “At Triple B, our ambition is always to enrich the lives of the communities we serve.

“OMNi is  especially meaningful to me, having studied at the University of Edinburgh and seen first hand the role it plays as an important social hub for the city. Its transformation reflects our  commitment to creating a welcoming place for the local community to come together and  enjoy accessible, affordable fun.

“We’re proud to build on that by supporting the University of  Edinburgh’s Access Edinburgh Scholarship programme, helping students focus on their  studies without financial strain.” 

Visit the OMNi website for full details on The Big Meet event on 2 May 2026. Join OMNi on its social  channels for latest information and behind the scenes content: Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. 

OMNi is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including  Bank Holidays.

Enrolling now: Edinburgh Dance Academy offers free taster lessons

Edinburgh Dance Academy, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland are ENROLLING NOW!!!

All of our taster lessons are free to make sure that we are the right fit for any dancer, and this month we are offering …

✨ TWO WEEKS FREE AT ALL EDA STUDIOS ✨

We offer classes in: Pre School Dance, Teenie Toes (parent and child), RAD Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Competition Teams, Contemporary, Commercial, Acro, Turns, Limbering, Body Conditioning, Mini Musical Theatre, Progressing Ballet Technique, & our Everybody Dance Now (ASN class)!

We would love to have you join our amazing dance family!

For more information please get in touch.

Email hello@eda.scot to book your free taster lesson now!

Celebrating the work of the Drill Hall resident artists and makers

  • Cellular Exhibition – Tuesday 14th to Friday 24th April
  • Exciting FREE exhibition showcasing the work of Drill Hall residents
  • Featuring over 20 artists and makers from paintings and illustration to jewellery
  • Meet the artists: Wednesday 15th April (6.30pm – 8.30pm)

Out of the Blue Drill Hall is excited to host a new exhibition showcasing the work of over 20 of its resident artists and makers, from painters and illustrators to jewellery makers and printmakers. 

This 6th showcase exhibition will run from Tuesday 14th to Friday 24th April (10am to 5pm) with an opportunity to meet the artists and makers on Wednesday 15th April from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the official exhibition launch.

Every great work of art starts with a single cell – a solitary thought, a lone brushstroke, a single spark. The artists and makers of the Drill Hall emerge from their individual workspaces to weave these threads together. 

Cellular invites you to explore a diverse ecosystem of work, bridging the gap between the maker’s private process and the public’s gaze.

With so many artists and makers taking part, there really is something for everyone. Painters include award-winning artist Daniel Murray. Working in acrylics on board, he paints realistic portrayals of the human form and the natural world, often mixing these subjects with abstracted landscapes inspired by the highland environment he grew up in.

Leith Jewellery Studios founder Amanda McGrattan will be showing her jewellery at the exhibition. Amanda’s work has been inspired by the grit and vibrancy of graffiti and urban street art. She translates the world around her into wearable narratives using a signature blend of textured and oxidized silver, liquid and powder enamels, and vivid acrylics. 

Textile work includes pieces by Needle Bow, a garment and accessories brand, designing and producing bespoke garments and accessories, using upcycled materials wherever possible.

The exhibition is being co-curated by painter Aoife O’Callaghan and textile artist Monika Fejes of Remode Collective. They’ll both be exhibiting and showcasing their work.

Aoife comments: “I am excited to be building on our previous exhibition.  The sense of community amongst the Drill Hall tenants is growing,  and I’m looking forward showcasing some of our work in our home-studio environment.” 

Out of the Blue Chief Executive Rob Hoon adds “The Out of the Blue Drill Hall houses a huge range of creative activity, and it’s a great pleasure to see the variety and quality of artists’ work displayed in the Cellular Exhibition, for all to enjoy.”  

Details of the Cellular Exhibition, as well as a list of participating artists and makers can be found on the Drill Hall website.

Participating Artists and Makers

  • Stamped Cat (Linocut prints)
  • Violetta Palak Jones (Paintings)
  • Daniel Murray (Paintings)
  • Graeme Walker (Abstract paintings)
  • Cam Life Designs (Jewellery, precious metal weaving, painting / sculpture)
  • Solen Collet (Photography)
  • Martin Fishman (Jewellery)
  • Jacob Danson Faraday (Jewellery, metal work)
  • Aoife in Leith (Paintings)
  • Shamil Sokolov (Jewellery)
  • Lawfieldcrafts (Silver and glass)
  • AMcGrattanJewellery (Handmade jewellery)
  • Gillie Welstead (Silver and gold jewellery)
  • Mairi MacSween Designs (Illustration)
  • Needle Bow (Textiles)
  • Ylfa (Accessories & jewellery – head pieces, hair pins and earrings)
  • Second Sun (Silver jewellery)
  • Elaine Wilson (Painting and tapestry)
  • Guy Howe Conners (Jewellery)
  • Samuel Watterworth (Plotter art)
  • Felicity Inkpen (Paintings, drawings and prints)
  • Knockwood Studio (Music and its visualisations)
  • Remode Collective (Mixed media textile art)

Follow Out of the Blue Drill Hall on Facebook and Instagram

Poster designed by Cameron Murdoch of CAM Life Designs.