Category: North Edinburgh News

BBC ALBA shares the epic journey of ‘A Bear named Wojtek’ in exclusive VE Day premiere

To mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE DAY), BBC ALBA is giving viewers an exclusive opportunity to unravel the story of A Bear named Wojtek with a special Gaelic broadcast of the award-winning animation.

Airing on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer on Wednesday 8 May, this is the first opportunity for UK audiences outside of the film festival circuit to explore the true story of Wojtek the Bear.

The half hour animated film, dubbed in Gaelic with English subtitles, tells the epic journey of an orphaned Syrian brown bear who was adopted by Polish soldiers during World War II, becoming a beacon of hope and an emblem of their fate.

The story begins with a platoon of Polish soldiers trading rations for a small orphaned Syrian bear cub that Piotr Prendys, a member of the 22nd Artillery Corps of the 2nd Polish Army, names Wojtek – ‘happy warrior’. To Piotr, the bear comes to represent his lost homeland, needing protection and care to become strong and independent again. To Wojtek, Piotr and the soldiers become his only family.

Tragically, the realpolitik of the war’s outcome ultimately force Piotr and Wojtek to become refugees in Scotland, with Wojtek confined in Edinburgh Zoo.

Directed by Scottish filmmaker Iain Gardner, and produced by Iain Harvey and Wlodzimierz Matuszewski, Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek is a love story for one’s homeland; and an important subject in times of refugees, nationalism and xenophobia.

Producer Iain Harvey said: “This is an emotional story, not just because it is true – though the film makes no pretence of being a documentary – but through the extraordinary parallels of recent events: the Covid pandemic restricting movement, and then the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“The agony of losing loved ones and the plight of refugees is symbolised by the history of Wojtek the Bear.

“Coupled with the beautiful artwork and the haunting music by Normand Roger, it is a film that will never lose its appeal.”

Piotr’s experience echoes that of many Polish people, who would become the biggest losers of the War as their land is bargained off to the Soviet Union. Despite feeling abandoned and betrayed, the Polish fortitude continues today via Wojtek: still a celebrated legend and symbol of hope.

Co-produced by Filmograf in Poland and The Illuminated Film Company in the UK, Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek was financed by the Polish Film Institute, Screen Scotland, and the UK Government-supported BFI Young Audiences Content Fund.

Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek will premiere on BBC ALBA and BBC

iPlayer on VE Day, Wednesday 8 May, at 7pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles). Watch live or on demand: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001z24r.

South Morningside Primary School in the running for top marks

Education Convener Councillor Joan Griffiths has welcomed the announcement that an Edinburgh primary school has been shortlisted in the annual Times Educational Supplement awards.

Cllr Griffiths said: “Congratulations to the dedicated staff, pupils and the whole school community at South Morningside Primary who should all take great credit for this recognition.  

“As a Gold Rights Respecting School they focus on the individual learners and in their recent inspection they were praised for being sector leading for their tailored support for each child and the tracking of pupils to ensure they are all successful. 

“It’s a great honour for them to be in the running for the best primary school in the UK and they are the only Scottish entry in that category. Their accolade follows on from Firrhill High School being nominated in last year’s awards and demonstrates the high quality of learning and teaching in our schools.”

Grant Gillies, Head Teacher at South Morningside Primary School, said: “We are so excited to be shortlisted for the TES Primary School of the Year.

“A good school is not one person, it is a community working together to support generations.

“South Morningside Primary is at the heart of a very vibrant community with a fantastic team and this represents their hard work and efforts. Like all schools in Edinburgh , we have high aspirations for our children and families. “

New Scottish galleries reach half a million visitors since opening

National Galleries of Scotland is celebrating an incredible half a million visitors to the new Scottish galleries in Edinburgh, just seven months after opening.

The Leckie family were thrilled to be the 500,000th visitors through the doors on Friday 3 May. Victoria Leckie along with Ella, 8, and William, 7, were welcomed to the new galleries with balloons and goodie bags.

Victoria said: “I can’t believe it! I thought you were joking! We have just moved to Edinburgh from South Africa a month ago, so it feels even more unbelievable.

“We came to explore the gallery and take the kids to the Family Friday event, so this is all very exciting and unexpected.”

The highly anticipated new Scottish galleries at the National opened to the public on 30 September 2023 to rave reviews, showcasing the very best of historic Scottish art from 1800 to 1945.

A free experience for everyone to enjoy right in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, the new spaces have been a roaring success, transforming the visitor experience and making the National more accessible than ever before.

Prior to the opening of the new Scottish galleries only 19% of visitors to the National gallery made their way to the former Scottish wing. However, since the opening of the new Scottish galleries this has increased to an amazing 62% of people now enjoying the exceptional artworks on display.

With 12 breathtaking galleries to explore, visitors can dive into dramatic landscapes, encounter iconic images and be wowed by art.

Spectacular views over the city entice visitors to come in and discover their national collection of art and the pioneering Scottish artists that created them.

Whether immersing themselves in the highly Romantic paintings of the Scottish Highlands, on a day out with the family, or just enjoying the views, all are welcome to come and discover their national collection.

Granton Tramline public meeting

Spokes public meeting – Wed 5 June 7.30pm

“The Granton Tramline”

Controversy rages over whether the proposed north-south tramline should use the Roseburn path or an onroad route via Orchard Brae and Dean Bridge.

The speakers at our June 5th public meeting will present the two cases, then the pros and cons of each option for cycling and walking, and for wider public health. Followed by our always-stimulating one-hour QA and panel discussion.

Speakers:

The case for tram using Roseburn path and not using the road route:

Lesley Hinds, Former Transport Convenor & North Edinburgh resident.

The case for tram using the road route and not using Roseburn path:

Euan Baxter, Save Roseburn Path

Cycling aspects – pros and cons of each option

Alex Robb, Spokes Planning Group

Population health – pros and cons of each option

Adrian Davis, Professor of Transport and Health, Edinburgh Napier University

… then our always-inspiring one-hour panel QA – your chance to interrogate and challenge the speakers

Chair: Johanna Boyd, Scottish solicitor [planning and local government law specialist], CEO of Planning Aid Scotland, former leader of Stirling Council.

Arrangements

  • Where Augustine United Church 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
  • Date Wednesday 5 June
  • Time Starts 7.30pm, Ends 9.30. Doors open 6.45 for coffee, stalls and chat, including a special stall to join Spokes or renew your membership
  • Questions Questions for the panel, can be emailed (at least a day in advance) to spokes@spokes.org.uk. However, questions in person from audience members are likely to have greatest priority on the night
  • Online We hope to live broadcast on our youtube channel – confirmation nearer the time – and make the recording available soon after

Background & Links

Charity highlights support for parents of deaf children

The National Deaf Children’s Society is highlighting the support available to parents of deaf children in Wales, as part of Deaf Awareness Week (6-12 May).  

With more than 90% of deaf children born to hearing parents with no experience of deafness, many families can be unsure where to go for support or what being deaf means for their child’s future. Parents who are deaf may also not always know where to go to for support when they are told their child is deaf.

The National Deaf Children’s Society asked the parents of deaf children from across the UK to share the emotions they experienced after being told their child is deaf. The charity also asked deaf young people to share their deaf awareness tips, in the hope of helping other families new to deafness.  

Gladiators star Fury, real name Jodie Ounsley, shared her top tips to help deaf children and young people smash through the barriers which some regularly face:

The hit show’s first deaf Gladiator said: “For me, the most useful tip has to be honesty. Just by being very open and honest and being vulnerable in those moments where you may be misunderstanding or feeling isolated at times, is huge.

“Not only does it help your confidence, but it raises awareness to the people around you so that they are able to understand and support where they can.”

“Be brave and just go for it, whether it’s a new sport or a challenge that may feel a bit scary, you never know what is around the corner and your deafness certainly shouldn’t to be the reason to hold you back.”

Lorraine, from Motherwell, whose 18-year-old daughter Kara is profoundly deaf, urges parents of deaf children to join a local support group and the National Deaf Children’s Society.    

She said: “We didn’t know about support groups or the National Deaf Children’s Society so I wish we’d known more about the support out there and that there’s people you can talk to. This is a big thing when your child is first identified as deaf – especially being able to speak to the parents of other deaf children.”  

Lorraine also recommends all parents of deaf children learn British Sign Language. She said: “We were advised by professionals not to learn sign language as it would stop Kara from talking. But in hindsight I wish we’d learned BSL as it would have boosted Kara’s deaf identity.” 

When asked what the most helpful piece of advice was after finding out Kara is deaf, Lorraine replied: “To join the National Deaf Children’s Society for more information and the community. 

“We went on a weekend for newly identified deaf children and it was fantastic because of all the information we found out and the support that NDCS provided us with. Kara was a young deaf campaigner for the NDCS and she’s now making deaf awareness videos for the BBC.” 

Lorraine’s top tip during Deaf Awareness Week is to make sure a deaf person can see you when you’re talking to them. She said: “Make sure you keep your hands away from your mouth and don’t shout through walls. It’s vital deaf people can read your lips, to see what’s being said.”

Victoria, a parent from Aberdeen concedes she knew “nothing” about deafness when she was first told that her son Lewis is deaf. 

She said: “That is the scariest part and I panicked. I felt ignorant about deafness, and I wish I had known more. 

“But don’t panic as there’s so much support out there and a whole community who will help you with any questions, situations and they provide fantastic help and guidance.

“Speak to as many parents about their experiences and engage with the National Deaf Children’s Society.” 

Victoria admitted she cannot remember anything useful from the first four weeks after she was told Lewis is deaf, as she was still coming to terms with what this would mean for her son.

“Then I went to Aberdeen School for Deaf Coffee morning, I cried as they were so kind and lovely. there were people signing and this is when I realised this would be our new journey. 

“There were older children who showed that their deafness wasn’t holding them back, it was at this point I knew it would all be ok.” 

Lewis is now aged five, attends a mainstream school and he has worn bilateral cochlear implants since he was 15 months old. 

Mark Ballard, Head of Policy and Influencing for Scotland with the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “Many parents tell us they knew very little, or nothing at all, about deafness before they had a deaf child. So, it’s hardly surprising that these parents find themselves feeling confused, unprepared and worried about what the future might hold for their children. 

“The National Deaf Children’s Society is here to help you give your deaf child the very best start in life. With the right support, there’s absolutely no reason why they shouldn’t grow up confident, happy and fulfilled.” 

Viral Meningitis Awareness Week: Charity urges people in Scotland to be ‘Vocal About Viral’

V for vital support – how we at Meningitis Now help following viral meningitis

I for information you can trust – where you can find out more reliable facts about viral meningitis

R for recovery – what this can look like and how long it can take

A for after-effects – what to look for and what to do about it

L for life after meningitis – getting back to normal

The UK’s leading meningitis charity has called for people in Scotland who have experienced viral meningitis to be ‘Vocal about Viral’ to help dispel myths and misconceptions about this form of the disease.  

Although rarely life-threatening viral meningitis, which is more common than bacterial meningitis, can make some people incredibly unwell and for some the after-effects can be life-changing, affecting people’s day-to-day lives and their ability to learn, play and work.  

The charity is using its annual Viral Meningitis Awareness Week, between the 6th and 10th of May, to inform the public, health professionals and employers about the true impact of the disease and the long-term after-effects it can cause.     

Expert opinion suggests several thousand people each year across the UK contract viral meningitis, an infection that causes inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord.   

Our Community Support Team supports people and families who have been affected by viral meningitis all across the UK. They offer free personalised, bespoke support and create a safe space for people to understand and ask questions about viral meningitis and its after-effects.  

Alison is our Community Support Officer for Scotland, based in Edinburgh. She said: “At Meningitis Now we understand the impact meningitis can have on someone’s life. 

“Whatever your experience of meningitis is, we can offer you a range of support for as long as you need it. If you or someone and your family has been affected by meningitis and you would like some support please reach out to us.” 

Meningitis Now’s President, TV presenter and fashion model Lisa Snowdon, is also adding her voice and sharing her own experience of viral meningitis to support this year’s awareness week.     

Lisa became ill with viral meningitis in 2010 but despite terrible headaches and other signs of the disease she continued to present her Capital London breakfast radio show. She only sought medical attention after switching on the Bond Street Christmas lights in December that year, when she nearly collapsed in pain.  

Since then, Lisa has spread awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease, some of which she herself experienced without recognising them as relating to meningitis.  

She said: “It’s vital that everyone knows the signs and symptoms and understands how serious viral meningitis can be. 

“It’s also important that those who have been affected by it, and their family and friends, are not afraid to speak out and seek the support they need.   

“Raising awareness will hopefully help dispel the myths and misconceptions that viral meningitis is always ‘mild’.”  

A recent national survey carried out for Meningitis Now by the Picker Institute highlighted gaps in the aftercare and support for adults with a recent experience of meningitis, with many not receiving the information and support they would have liked.   

The survey demonstrated that viral meningitis is still viewed by many as a short-term illness, despite it having a lasting impact for some people.

Survey responses included: “healthcare providers don’t count viral meningitis as a serious illness so they dismiss it altogether,” and “People seem to think viral meningitis is not life changing and it is.”  

After-effects of the disease can include exhaustion, headaches, memory loss, depression, anxiety and balance problems. Many people need to take long periods off education or work, and struggle with the day-to-day tasks that most people take for granted. 

Bev Corbett, Meningitis Now’s Director of Information and Support, said: “As a centre of expertise for nearly 40 years we know how devastating meningitis can be.

“This important survey with the Picker Institute has deepened our knowledge and understanding of the aftercare and support needs of adults impacted by viral meningitis in the UK.”   

Meningitis Now has a range of free services to support individuals and their families after viral meningitis, including its Rebuilding Futures Fund, which provides financial and practical support for people of all ages affected by meningitis.  

Symptoms of viral meningitis can include a severe headache, a dislike of bright lights, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting and confusion. The disease can affect anyone of any age. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention.   

Meningitis Now is urging anyone concerned about the impact of viral meningitis to contact their nurse-led Helpline. Most people will make a full recovery. However, for some recovery can be slow and the after-effects long lasting. Meningitis Now can provide a range of support – and even just a call with our experienced team can help you on the road to recovery.  

For further information about viral meningitis visit this page and if you have been affected by viral meningitis, contact the Meningitis Now Helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or email helpline@meningitisnow.org.

Tories taking back control … of England’s toilets

Westminster government to introduce new law to ‘halt the march of gender-neutral toilets’

New requirements will be brought forward for single sex toilet facilities in new non-domestic buildings to alleviate safety, privacy and dignity concerns.   

The new legislation follows the results of a consultation on the proposals, where responses showed 81% agreed with the intention for separate single-sex toilet facilities and 82% agreed with the intention to provide universal toilets where space allows.  A universal toilet is self-contained, and a fully enclosed toilet room with a wash hand basin for individual use.

Responses highlighted particular concerns from women, elderly and the disabled who felt unfairly disadvantaged as publicly accessible toilets are increasingly being converted into gender neutral facilities where users share cubicle and hand-washing facilities. This leads to increasing waiting in shared queues, decreased choice and less privacy and dignity. 

The new requirements will mean everyone can access appropriate facilities either through a separate single-sex space or a self-contained, universal toilet.   

Changes to building regulations will mean that new non-domestic buildings, including restaurants, shopping centres, offices and public toilets will be required to provide separate single-sex toilets for women and men.  Self-contained, universal toilets may be provided in addition, where space allows, or instead of single-sex toilets where there isn’t enough space.   

In addition to single-sex toilets becoming the default for new non-domestic buildings and places undertaking major refurbishment, the policy encourages provision of self-contained universal toilets, which are a fully enclosed toilet room with a washbasin and hand-drying facilities for individual use.   

Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said: “These regulations will guide organisations to design unisex and single-sex toilets, ending the rise of so-called “gender-neutral” mixed sex toilet spaces, which deny privacy and dignity to both men and women.

“Today’s announcement will also create better provision for women so that our particular biological, health and sanitary needs are met.

“This is following our work last week limiting the use of mixed-sex wards in the NHS and demonstrates how this government is committed to ensuring single-sex spaces are protected for all.”

Housing Minister Lee Rowley said:  “We know all members of society value safety, privacy and dignity, and this new legislation will help ensure the right facilities are in place for everyone. 

“It is vital that new buildings, particularly in public spaces, are serving the community with right toilet provision.

“The Government is clear that single-sex spaces are essential for ensuring privacy and dignity for the elderly, women, and girls.”

The move comes following a set of announcements of firm action to protect spaces for women and girls, such as the Government’s introduction of a new NHS constitution which put patient safety and dignity at the heart of care, including reinforcing the NHS’s commitment to providing single-sex wards. 

It also follows the Minister for Women and Equalities’ call for examples of organisations issuing incorrect guidance on single-sex spaces. 

In addition, the Department for Education re-enforced that Schools in England are required to comply with minimum standards, including that separate toilets for boys and girls aged 8 years and over are to be provided.

While England’s colleges are not subject to the same legal requirements, they should take the same approach given the same safeguarding considerations apply.

Changes to building regulations will ensure that:   

  • Separate single-sex toilets facilities are provided for men and women;    
  • Self-contained, universal toilets may be provided in addition to single-sex toilets, where space allows;  
  • Self-contained universal toilets may be provided instead of single-sex toilets only where lack of space reasonably precludes provision of single-sex toilet accommodation.    

Appeal after remains of osprey found

Police are appealing for information after the remains of an osprey were found near Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross on Friday (3 May, 2024).

The protected species is believed to have been nesting at Loch of the Lowes, close to where it was found.

Enquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances.

Inspector James Longden said: “It is illegal to kill any protected species and we are working closely alongside partner agencies to confirm what has happened here and whether there is any criminality involved.

“Information from the local community could prove vital and it is important we speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, or who may know something which could assist our investigation.

“Any information can be passed to Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3266 of Friday, 3 May, 2024. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

More information on wildlife crime can be found on our website:

 https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/wildlife-crime/

PICTURE: RSPB

Does Edinburgh need a new Aldi?

SUPERMARKET SEEKS INPUT ON WHERE TO OPEN NEXT

Aldi has launched a new nationwide initiative to pinpoint prime locations for new store openings. 

Recognising the invaluable input of its customers, the UK’s fourth-biggest supermarket is calling on the nation to help it identify where in Britain needs new Aldi stores most. 

The areas which have the most suggestions will then be considered as part of Aldi’s commitment to build hundreds of new stores across Britain. 

Aldi has been on a rapid expansion drive in recent years and has seen its popularity soar as shoppers switch to the supermarket for its lower prices and great quality amid the cost-of-living crisis.  

The retailer currently has more than 1,000 stores – including 19 across Edinburgh & the Lothians – and is committed to continuing towards its long-term target of over 1,500 stores across the UK.   

Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: “We want to make high-quality food accessible to all, but there are still some areas that either don’t have an Aldi or have potential for more stores.  

 “We’ve identified some key places where there is demand for more stores already, but now we are calling on the public to share their views. This will be used to help inform our property search over the coming years.”   

Those wanting to put their town forward to be considered should contact the supermarket by emailing NextNewStore@Aldi.co.uk, clearly stating their postcode and why they believe their area needs a new Aldi store. 

Aldi is asking for suggestions to be submitted by 31 May 2024, with the supermarket planning to update customers on the results and its latest priority ‘wish list’ later this year.  

For more information on Aldi’s nationwide site requirements, visit:

www.aldi.co.uk/about-aldi/property/required-towns

A Legacy of Courage

Peter Beales Roses and RNLI mark 200 years with Blue Peter icons and rose debut at RHS Chelsea

In a tribute to a legacy of courage, Peter Beales Roses and the RNLI have come together to commemorate 200 years of service and dedication at this year’s RHS Chelsea (20 – 25th May).

The launch of the new ‘With Courage’ rose will take place on Monday Press Day (20th May) with several iconic faces from Blue Peter who are synonymous with both British institutions with the ‘Lifeboat Appeal’

Peter Beales Roses, renowned for their exquisite blooms and timeless beauty, have long been a symbol of resilience and strength, much like the brave men and women of the RNLI who risk their lives to save others at sea.

And with the 200th anniversary of the RNLI taking place this year, Peter Beales is proud to launch ‘With Courage’ a carefully bred rose to reflect the spirit of courage and dedication exemplified by the RNLI, which serves as a lasting tribute to their noble mission.

The launch of ‘With Courage’ will see well-loved Blue Peter presenters on the Peter Beales stand, adding an extra layer of meaning to the celebration.

Blue Peter has been a longstanding supporter of the RNLI, emphasising the importance of courage, resilience, and community spirit. Confirmed to attend so far are favourites, Valerie Singleton who was responsible for the first Lifeboat Appeal in 1967, Janet Ellis, Lindsey Russell and Anthea Turner.

‘With Courage’ is a modern classic floribunda, featuring coppery orange double flowers set against glossy mid-green foliage. The rose is compact and reaches a height of 3 feet and releases a delightful apple fragrance.

The rose took six years to come to market, ensuring it meets the demands of modern gardens. With 20% of all sales benefiting the RNLI, sales of ‘With Courage’ are projected to raise £40,000 for the charity.

It will take centre stage on the Peter Beales stand, along with a real RNLI rib, surrounded by thousands of a sea of the most popular rose varieties.

The exhibit will be at the beating heart of the Grand Pavilion, spanning an incredible 100 square metres with walkthrough access so visitors can surround themselves with the beautiful display and scent of the nation’s favourite flower.

The instantly recognisable rose-covered arches will welcome guests to the fragrant and sensory display which will encourage you to linger and enjoy the beauty of the flowers.

As well as ‘With Courage,’ multiple coloured and scented varieties will come together in a breathtaking display, each reaching their height, and exhibited in different ways to showcase the vibrant blooms.

Marvel at the arches adorned with the deep crimson ‘Chevy Chase,’ the enchanting pure white ‘Rambling Rector,’ and the delightful ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk,’ as well as the majestic ‘Waterloo.’ Step further into the immersive display to encounter special varieties like ‘Rachel’s Joy,’ ‘Highgrove,’ ‘Loyal Companion,’ ‘MacMillan Nurse,’ and ‘Pippin,’ each a living tribute to Peter Beales’ legacy.

Experience the enchantment of old historical roses such as ‘Comte de Chambord,’ ‘White Pet,’ and the striking ‘Rosa Mundi.’ Obelisks stand tall, proudly presenting the ‘Siluetta’ range of patio climbers alongside the captivating ‘Purple Skyliner.’

With both Peter Beales and RNLI representatives on the stand, those visiting will have the opportunity to learn more about the RNLI’s life-saving missions and Peter Beales Roses’ rich heritage in rose breeding and cultivation.

Actor and RNLI Ambassador Joanna Scanlon will also be on hand to speak about her experiences in open-water swimming and why the charity’s advice and help are so important.