North Edinburgh News – Page 45 – The NEN

Holyrood elections 2026: Second opinion poll predicts breakthrough for new Independence Party

ALLIANCE TO LIBERATE SCOTLAND ON COURSE FOR LECTION BREAKTHROUGH?

Tommy Sheridan in Glasgow and Craig Murray in Lothians East set to be elected to Holyrood alongside other Alliance to Liberate Scotland candidates

The Alliance to Liberate Scotland says two recent opinion polls conducted by Find Out Now point to a breakthrough result for the new pro-independence party at the Holyrood election on 7 May.

The respected polling company conducted two Scotland-wide surveys of 1,000 voters on behalf of the party, one in late March and the second in late April. The striking feature of both polls is their consistency.

In the late March poll, 8% of voters said they were either “definitely” or “very likely” to vote for the Alliance to Liberate Scotland. In the late April poll, 6% of voters said they were “definitely” or “very likely” to support the party on the regional list, which Find Out Now rounded up to 7%.

That matters because around 6% of the regional vote is widely regarded as the threshold for winning a seat in many of Scotland’s regional contests. On that basis, the two polls suggest the Alliance to Liberate Scotland is in genuine breakthrough territory.

Smaller regional samples also point in the same direction. In Glasgow, Tommy Sheridan’s support is shown fluctuating between 5% and 7%. In the 2021 election, the final regional seat in Glasgow was won by the Conservatives on just 6.1%, placing Sheridan within striking distance of election.

Although pollsters caution that smaller samples are less reliable than the standard national sample of 1,000, the repeated pattern across Glasgow, Lothians East and the national polling suggests rising support for the Alliance to Liberate Scotland across Scotland.

Commenting on the latest poll, Glasgow lead candidate and former two-term MSP Tommy Sheridan said: “One poll predicting an Alliance to Liberate Scotland breakthrough is encouraging.

“Two polls, with remarkable consistency, predicting support on the regional vote at between 6% and 8%, is a very real sign that the Alliance is fast becoming the choice of independence supporters who understand that SNP list votes are wasted votes.

“As more people grasp the two-vote system, more SNP supporters are realising their constituency vote for SNP matters, but their regional vote for SNP is futile. That approach helped unionist parties in 2016 and 2021. In 2021 the SNP won only two regional seats out of 56 contested, despite attracting over one million votes.

“Now independence supporters are increasingly choosing to give their regional vote to the party that makes independence its sole priority: the Alliance to Liberate Scotland.”

Sheridan added: “As the reality of the voting system becomes clearer, independence supporters can see the opportunity before them. The regional vote should not be wasted on the SNP, and it should not be diverted to the Greens, whose obsession with gender identity and culture-war politics has increasingly overshadowed the central mission of securing Scotland’s freedom.

“Genuine independence supporters are choosing to give their regional vote to the Alliance To Liberate Scotland over the Greens because they know independence is simply not a priority for the Greens.

“The Greens prioritise gender identity politics over Scotland’s freedom and that’s why independence activists are deciding to back the single-issue Alliance to Liberate Scotland party.”

New party polling – Edinburgh Download

New party polling – Glasgow Download

First phase of historic inn restoration begins with major facelift

THE decaying facade of an historic inn made famous by Scottish bard Robert Burns is to be restored to its former glory.

Work on ~~the~~ Whigham’s Inn – a prominent but long-derelict building on the High Street of Sanquhar in Dumfries and Galloway – is due to start this week.

Layers of paint, which are trapping moisture and damaging the building, will be removed using an innovative dry ice blasting process to reveal the original sandstone.

It is planned for this initial phase of restoration, to be carried out by Annan-based Dry Ice by Eco, will be the start of a much wider multi-million-pound revamp of the building.

Ronnie Bradford is the Community Development Officer with the Sanquhar Enterprise Company (SEC) which bought the building in June 2025. He said: “Whigham’s Inn has huge historical and cultural significance for Sanquhar, but for many years it has also been a visible reminder of how vulnerable heritage buildings can become if they are left without a sustainable future.

“Starting work on the facade is a major step. It demonstrates progress on the ground and shows the community that this building is finally on a path towards restoration and reuse.”

Whigham’s Inn is one of the town’s most historically important buildings, with strong links to Robert Burns through his friendship with former owner Edward Whigham. The Inn provided Burns with accommodation during his travels between Ayrshire and Dumfriesshire, at a time when Sanquhar was a key stop on historic coaching routes.

Despite its prominence on the High Street, the building fell into decline during the late 20th century, passing through a number of speculative owners and standing largely unused for nearly 40 years.

Its deteriorating condition eventually led to it being identified as a priority site within the Royal Burgh of Sanquhar and District Community Action Plan, paving the way for its purchase by SEC, with the assistance and support of both The Royal Burgh of Sanquhar Community Council and the Upper Nithsdale Community Trust, and the start of long-term restoration planning.

The facade works mark the first visible phase of a wider multi‑million‑pound redevelopment project, which aims to bring the building back into active use while respecting its historic character.

Plans include a mix of self‑contained apartments within the main structure, alongside office space, and a small bunkhouse facility to maintain the building’s historic connection with travellers and accommodation.

Alongside the physical redevelopment, proposals are also being developed to interpret the inn’s literary and cultural heritage. These include the potential use of digital and virtual reality technology to bring the building’s history to life and explore its connections to Robert Burns and the wider story of Sanquhar, within a limited footprint.

The initial cleaning and conservation work will be carried out using a dry ice blasting process, which allows surface coatings to be removed without the use of water or abrasive materials.

The technique is particularly well suited to historic stone buildings, as it avoids saturation of the stonework and reduces the risk of further damage.

The work will be undertaken by specialist contractors Eco Dry Ice, who have experience using the technique on sensitive heritage projects across the UK.

Steven McCreadie, Head of Dry Ice by Eco, said: “Being part of the restoration of Whigham’s Inn is a real privilege.

“It’s especially rewarding to work on such a historic building that means so much to the community, helping bring it back to life using our innovative dry ice cleaning technology.

“Our role is to thoughtfully remove modern coatings that are causing harm to the stone, while protecting as much of the original material as possible.

“Using dry ice cleaning, we’re able to work in a gentle and controlled way, revealing the natural sandstone beneath without introducing moisture or harsh abrasion.

“This is about helping the building breathe once more and supporting its longevity for generations to come.’

Meadows Festival scam warning

The Count down has started and The Meadows Festival Edinburgh Posters are out for this years Festival 6& 7th June 2026!

Be scam aware

please note that all applicants must go through our website we will only contact you through our association email addresses (we don’t use gmail, yahoo, hotmail, outlook etc).

Thank you

MFE Team

Come and Sing at St Mary’s

EARTH SEA and SKY theme

Calling all children in P3-7 who love to sing! Join us for an afternoon of singing songs on the theme ‘Earth, Sea and Sky’, on Friday 19th June, 2-4:15pm, led by our Assistant Director of Music Imogen Morgan.

The afternoon will include a break for juice and a biscuit, and children will be fully supervised by Cathedral staff for the duration of the workshop. The afternoon will end with a short, informal performance of songs learnt during the afternoon at 4pm.

Parents and families are warmly invited to join us for this!

Chatterbooks is back at Drumbrae

DRUMBRAE LIBRARY HUB: TUESDAY from 6 – 7pm

Chatterbooks, our P4-7 book group is on this Tuesday 6-7pm! As it is our first week back since the Easter break please bring along any of your favourite library books for us to discuss.

Something you love, recommend to a friend or just want to tell us about! (You can also bring us something you didn’t enjoy instead, if you want to give us your review!!)

We will also be planting sunflower seeds, focussing on non-fiction books and fiction featuring flowers and plants! Come along for books, reading, snacks and fun!

STUC affiliation rises as workers win ‘generational’ upgrades to rights at work

Affiliation to Scotland’s largest trade union body has grown this past year as the Scottish Trades Union Congress embed their national project for trade union organising within local trades councils.

The number of trade unionists in Scotland affiliated to the STUC has grown by 14,000 in a move General Secretary Roz Foyer said showed “vindication for trade union organising within workplaces and communities”.

The news comes as the Employment Rights Act, the biggest “generational upgrade” to workers’ rights starts to come into full force. Recent enhancements to trade union recognition, industrial action ballots and protection from unfair dismissal have all been enacted with further legislative changes on fire and rehire and reducing exploitative work forthcoming.

The STUC ‘Our Rights in Action’ project from the trade union body is the national campaign to strengthen the resources and reach of local trades councils, embedding trade union organising and education within communities and networks.

The project seeks to enhance the work of existing schemes, such as the Inverclyde Advice & Employment Rights Centre, Edinburgh Support at Work and the newly emergent Trade Unions in the Community initiatives as avenues to promote cohesion and unity within communities.

The news was announced on day two of the STUC Annual Congress in Dundee this week.

Commenting, STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “We’re pleased that affiliation numbers to the STUC have grown by 14,000. This is vindication for trade union organising within the workplace and within our communities, showing how working people are united against injustice and intolerance.

“Providing enhanced rights at work is one of the core focuses of our movement. The full swathe of the Employment Rights Act, promised to trade unionists, must be enacted quickly if we’re to turn the tide against bad bosses and poor employers.

“It’s through intensive work at community level – through our trades councils with our Rights in Action project and alongside existing schemes – will we ensure workers value the strength of our unity rather and choose to unite around commonality rather than gravitate towards those preaching division.

“Our Congress will make clear that trade unions are at the heart of inclusive, thriving communities. We will take that message both across the country and directly to the politicians all too content on stoking tropes and undermining worker solidarity.”

Three Inch Fools back at Lauriston Castle this summer

NEW SHOW: KING ARTHUR AND THE HOLY FAIL

We’re delighted to be welcoming back The Three Inch Fools to perform in our beautiful gardens this summer at Lauriston Castle!

Get ready for King Arthur and the Holy Fail – a brand new comedy packed to the brim with medieval mayhem. Expect heroic exploits, questionable chivalry, live music, and a lively flock of fire-breathing swans.

Saddle up – things are about to get legendary! For all the family!

Tuesday 30 June 2026, 19:00

Book: https://cultureedinburgh.com/…/king-arthur-and-the-holy…

Early-bird tickets are available now — be sure to grab yours before they’re gone!

This is one quest you won’t want to miss!

Ten ways to reduce motoring costs this spring

Drivers are being urged to act now as motoring costs threaten to climb with fuel price volatility, insurance hikes and rising repair bills hitting household budgets hard.

Motoring experts at car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco have offered drivers practical tips to help cut everyday motoring costs and avoid being caught out by price rises.

Petrol and diesel prices have been unpredictable in recent years but ongoing tensions in Iran have pushed oil markets back into the headlines.

Disruption to Middle East supply routes are creating fresh uncertainty and the potential for sudden price spikes at the pump over the coming weeks.

Spring and summer also typically see higher driving volumes thanks to bank holidays and ‘staycations’ which can push pump prices even higher.

At the same time, insurance premiums remain elevated following a sharp rise in claims costs and vehicle repairs.

Car maintenance is another growing concern as warmer weather reveals damage caused over winter, including pothole wear, tyre deterioration, worn brakes and battery strain.

Drivers who delay routine maintenance often face larger repair bills later in the year, especially as garages tend to become busier ahead of peak travel season.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com said: “Many drivers assume their biggest motoring cost is fuel, but several expenses tend to rise together in spring and summer.

“Increased travel pushes up fuel demand and cars begin to show the effects of winter wear and tear.

“But small habits can make a surprisingly big difference. Improving fuel efficiency, staying on top of maintenance and reviewing insurance cover can collectively save drivers hundreds of pounds over the coming months.

“Taking action early is key, as waiting until a problem appears often means paying more than needed.”

To help motorists stay ahead of rising costs, LeaseLoco’s motoring experts recommend:

1.Shop around well before your insurance renewal

Start comparing quotes three to four weeks ahead of your renewal date. Insurers can reward early shoppers with lower premiums, while leaving it until the last minute can lead to higher prices.

2.Review your cover and excess levels

Removing unnecessary add-ons and adjusting your voluntary excess could reduce premiums, as long as it remains affordable in the event of a claim.

3.Avoid last-minute fuel purchases

Filling up near motorways, holiday routes or on peak travel days often means paying more. Planning fuel stops and using price comparison apps can help drivers find cheaper stations nearby.

4.Check tyre pressure at least once a month

Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption, reduce tyre lifespan and compromise safety. Correct tyre pressure improves efficiency and reduces wear.

5.Clear out excess weight from your vehicle

Roof racks and heavy items in the boot all increase fuel usage. Removing anything not needed for daily driving can improve efficiency immediately.

6.Adopt smoother driving habits

Gradual acceleration, gentle braking and maintaining a steady speed can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Using cruise control on longer journeys can also help.

7.Stick to regular servicing schedules

Oil changes, filter replacements and basic checks keep engines running efficiently and can prevent expensive breakdowns later in the year.

8.Check your air conditioning early

Faulty air conditioning systems often go unnoticed until the first hot day. Early checks can prevent costly repairs and improve fuel efficiency.

9.Combine errands into fewer trips

Multiple short journeys from a cold engine use far more fuel than one longer trip. Planning routes in advance reduces unnecessary mileage.

10.Consider car sharing or alternative travel when possible

Sharing journeys can cut fuel spend over time.

Edinburgh man to bring joy of Scottish music to people with dementia at new Fringe show

SINGALONG FOR SCOTLAND

A former business executive is swapping spreadsheets for songs to perform for people with dementia at the Edinburgh Fringe in memory of his father.

Johnny Collington, 62, who lives in the capital, first picked up the instrument in a bid to connect with his dad Stan, who had recently been diagnosed with dementia. Stan, originally from Motherwell, passed away in February aged 99.

Johnny is now registered to perform a series of shows at the Fringe in August to raise funds for Alzheimer Scotland.

The married dad-of-two, who was born in Irvine but grew up in Lanarkshire, said: “I had been living and working in London for many years, but I took early retirement and moved back to Scotland, to Edinburgh, about six years ago. My mum Betty had passed away and my dad was in his early 90s and needed more support.

“My dad was diagnosed initially with severe cognitive impairment but his condition progressed quickly to dementia. He moved into a care home and soon could no longer communicate.

“I’d never been much of a musician in the past, but I owned a guitar and knew a few chords. By chance I took the guitar with me to visit dad and tried to play and sing a couple of traditional Scottish songs that I knew he liked.

“Amazingly, as soon as I started playing I could see him connect with me and start singing along. It was remarkable how he suddenly came to life. I realised then that music is a great connector.

“From that point I started seriously teaching myself how to play the guitar and looked for more songs to sing – anything quite traditionally Scottish with a good beat is always a winner.”

Before long, Johnny was asked by the manager of his dad’s care home if he would play for all the residents – many of whom also had dementia. Word soon spread and he now plays at 12 care homes, centres and other venues from Perth to North Lanarkshire and across the east coast, including at Alzheimer Scotland’s outdoor dementia resource centre at Lauriston Castle.

Johnny said: “I get the same reaction from the other people with dementia who I play for as I did from my dad. It’s fantastic how everyone brightens up when they hear the music and join in.

“One chap who was non-verbal and would usually seem quite disconnected, suddenly sat up, took a tambourine and started hitting it in time with the music.

“I’m a bit nervous about the Fringe but also really looking forward to performing and being part of such a world-famous festival. My shows are aimed at people with dementia but also to anyone who enjoys traditional Scottish music. It feels great to be on a new journey now and to be able to give back to the community.

“I want to keep doing what I can to bring music to people living with dementia and to support the amazing work of Alzheimer Scotland for as long as I can.”

Johnny Collington will be performing his show, Singalong for Scotland, at the LifeCare Centre in Cheyne Street, Stockbridge, each day from August 7 to 14, from 3pm to 4pm. Find out more at: www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/sing-a-long-scotland
Find out more about Alzheimer Scotland at www.alzscot.org, or call their 24 hour Freephone Dementia Helpline at 0808 808 3000.

Closer to Cultures: Edinburgh Multicultural Festival’s coming to Stockbridge Library

SATURDAY 9th MAY from 12 – 1.20pm

Edinburgh Multicultural Festival is coming to your local library with free Chinese, Japanese and African cultural performances this season.

Edinburgh Multicultural Festival presents its Spring/Summer Season of World Cultures performances and workshops in city libraries!

We are happy to host Edinburgh Chinese Arts Association with cultural dance programme at Stockbridge Library on Sat 9th May from 12-1:30pm.

Book your free tickets at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/closer-to-cultures-2026…